Efficacy of an Omaha system-based remote ergonomic intervention program on self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) - A randomized controlled study

Purpose

Heavy biomechanical loadings at workplaces may lead to high risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of an Omaha System-based remote ergonomic intervention program on self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders among frontline nurses.

Materials and methods

From July to October 2020, 94 nurses with self-reported pain in one of the three body parts, i.e., neck, shoulder, and low back, were selected and were randomly divided into two groups. The intervention group received a newly developed remote program, where the control group received general information and guidance on health and life. Program outcome was evaluated by a quick exposure check approach.

Results

After 6 weeks, the intervention group exhibited significantly less stress in the low back, neck, and shoulder/forearms, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, the occurrence of awkward postures, such as extreme trunk flexion or twisting, was also significantly reduced (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The newly developed Omaha System-based remote intervention program may be a valid alternative to traditional programs for frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing biomechanical loadings and awkward postures during daily nursing operations.

Safety and feasibility study of a novel robotic system in an in vivo porcine vascular model

PURPOSE

The goal of this preclinical study is to assess the functionality, technical feasibility, and safety of a new vascular robotic LIBERTYR 3 System, in the microcatheterization of vascular targets using a range of guidewires and microcatheters.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An anesthetized pig served as an arterial model for the robotic device (LIBERTYR3; Microbot Medical Ltd, Yoqneam, IL). The primary efficacy endpoint was the evaluation of its capability to selectively catheterize predetermined distal arterial branches in the liver, kidneys, and mesenteric arteries (technical success), under fluoroscopy guidance. The primary safety endpoint was the occurrence of angiographic acute catheterization-related complications (dissection, thrombosis, embolism, perforation). The catheterizations were conducted by two interventional radiologists that present different work experience in endovascular procedures (18 and 2 years respectively), using a variety of microcatheters and wires. Various procedural parameters such as functionality, practicality, ease of use, and time required for selective catheterization, were evaluated, and recorded.

RESULTS

All pre-determined arteries were successfully selectively catheterized (100% technical success), by both operators. No angiographic acute complications occurred. The microcatheters and wires were manipulated using the remote portable console in an effortless manner that maintained a high level of accuracy. Mean time for selective catheterization was 131 ± 82 s. The robot's conversion function to manual operation was successfully demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Robotic navigation and catheterization of selected target arteries were accomplished without observable vascular damage, suggesting that the LIBERTYR 3 robotic system is a reliable and safe tool for robotic-assisted endovascular navigation. Further experimental studies are required to evaluate safety and efficacy prior to introduction into clinical practice.

Remote neurocognitive interventions for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder - Opportunities and challenges

Improving neurocognitive functions through remote interventions has been a promising approach to developing new treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). Remote neurocognitive interventions may address the shortcomings of the current prevailing pharmacological therapies for AD/HD, e.g., side effects and access barriers. Here we review the current options for remote neurocognitive interventions to reduce AD/HD symptoms, including cognitive training, EEG neurofeedback training, transcranial electrical stimulation, and external cranial nerve stimulation. We begin with an overview of the neurocognitive deficits in AD/HD to identify the targets for developing interventions. The role of neuroplasticity in each intervention is then highlighted due to its essential role in facilitating neuropsychological adaptations. Following this, each intervention type is discussed in terms of the critical details of the intervention protocols, the role of neuroplasticity, and the available evidence. Finally, we offer suggestions for future directions in terms of optimizing the existing intervention protocols and developing novel protocols.

Evaluating the Efficacy of the Family Check-Up Online to Improve Parent Mental Health and Family Functioning in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Randomized Clinical Trial

This study evaluated the effects of an enhanced version of the Family Check-Up Online (FCU-O), adapted to address parent and family functioning in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to increase accessibility, the FCU-O was delivered as a web-based application coupled with online coaching support, a service delivery model that is consistent with pandemic-related limitations for in-person intervention, as well as the limited staffing and resources available in many schools and health care settings despite the increased need for mental health services driven by the pandemic. This registered clinical trial (blinded) tested the effects of the intervention on parental mental health, parenting behaviors, and family functioning from pre-treatment to 2-month follow-up. Families were randomly assigned to receive the FCU-O (N = 74) or to a wait-list control condition (N = 87). Random assignment to the FCU-O was associated with significant improvements in parental well-being, including reduced anxiety, depression, and perceived stress. Further, the FCU-O predicted significant improvements in adaptive parenting skills (e.g. less negative/coercive parenting, greater proactive parenting), and enhancements in family-relational functioning (e.g. improved coparenting). Effect sizes were small to moderate in magnitude (partial eta squared values between 0.03 and 0.11). The results indicate that online delivery of a family-centered intervention may represent a promising approach for addressing pandemic-related impacts on parent and family functioning.

Evaluating the feasibility of a remote-based training program supported by information and communications technology in the older adults living at home

Background

Exercise has been one of the key strategies for preventing frailty. While training programs for preventing frailty have been mainly developed in person, which have now become difficult to perform due to the coronavirus disease pandemic. It would be worthwhile to explore a feasibility of methods for a remote-based training with information and communications technology (ICT) in the pre-frail/robust older adults living at home.

Methods

We assessed the feasibility of a remote-based training with ICT device in terms of 1) a measurement accuracy and 2) whether it could be used for remote-based training of different intensities. To evaluate a measurement accuracy of the ICT device, we evaluated an inter-rater reliability between a true score and scores obtaining from the ICT device in 20 participants aged 65 years and older. Intraclass correlation was calculated. To evaluate a feasibility of remote-based training interventions of different intensities, we did a parallel, randomized, active controlled trial. Participants aged 65 years or older were randomly allocated to the two 3-month intervention programs with different intensity of exercise with the ICT (i.e., an Exercise-Intensive program and a Light-load exercise program). The primary outcome was 3-month scores of the 30-s chair-stand test (CS-30), which was compared between two groups using mixed models for repeated measures to account for within-person correlations.

Results

The ICT device showed a high intraclass correlation of over 0.99 for all outcomes including CS-30. Between Aug and Oct 2020, 70 participants (36 and 34 in the Exercise-Intensive and Light-load exercise programs, respectively) were randomized. After 3 months of intervention, CS-30 scores and other physical function improved in both groups. Difference in the 3-month CS-30 scores between two programs was found to be 0.08 (95% confidence interval: − 2.64, 2.79; p = 0.955), which was not statistically significant. No harmful incidents, such as falls, occurred in either group.

Conclusion

We showed a remote-based training with ICT device in the older adults living at home was feasible. Further studies are warranted to determine what kind of remote exercise intervention programs is more effective for maintaining a physical performance and, beyond that, preventing frailty.

Trial registration number

UMIN000041616 (05/09/2020) https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr.cgi?function=brows&action=brows&recptno=R000047504&type=summary&language=E

Feasibility and Cost of Using Instagram to Recruit Adolescents to a Remote Intervention

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to describe the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and generalizability of a strategy for recruiting adolescents into research studies through social media.

METHODS

We designed and tested six Instagram advertisements (ads) with a combination of Instagram campaign objectives (Traffic vs. Reach) and types of placement (Story vs. Feed). The goal was to obtain remote assent and screen for a larger remote behavioral intervention study. The eligibility criteria for screening were being aged 13-17 years, residing in the United States, and English-speaking. The eligibility for the larger study was past year cybervictimization and smartphone ownership. A target sample was 80 participants, randomly assigned to a control or intervention group and followed up for 16 weeks. Recruitment rates and cost-per-enrolled participant with different advertising strategies, demographics, and retention were examined using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

The six ads were run over 907.5 hours, generating 1,069,747 impressions, 2,051 click-throughs, and 663 completed screening surveys. Of 493 eligible participants, 24.4% assented to participate, 69.4% completed enrollment, and 4.8% dropped/withdrew after randomization. Average advertising costs were $52/participant; the lowest-cost strategy (Traffic campaign + Feed ad placement) was $19/enrolled participant. The study sample was largely white (81.3%), non-Hispanic (87.5%), and female (77.5%) with an average age of 15.33 years. Nearly half of the participants were identified as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. More than 96% of participants were retained at the 16-week follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Instagram can be a feasible and cost-effective way to recruit adolescents for a remote study. This method may be ideal for recruiting hard-to-reach audiences.