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Mackie M, Thomson G, Walsh A, Lockhart H, Stewart M. Delivering medicine in a cold weather environment. BMJ Mil Health 2024; 170:188. [PMID: 36175031 DOI: 10.1136/military-2022-002220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Wilson N, Clement C, Summers JA, Thomson G, Harper G. Impact of war on veteran life span: natural experiment involving combat versus non-combat exposed military personnel. BMJ Mil Health 2023; 169:505-509. [PMID: 34937743 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2021-001991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is still uncertainty around the impact of combat exposure on the life span of war veterans. Therefore we made use of a natural experiment to study the impact on veteran life span of combat versus non-combat exposure in World War II (WW2). METHODS The combat-exposed military personnel were derived from a random (10%) sample of the military roll of the 28th (Māori) Battalion from New Zealand. One non-combat cohort was the 15th Reinforcements of this same Battalion, since the war ended before they reached the front line. The other non-combat cohort were Māori personnel who were only involved in Jayforce, which occupied Japan at the end of the WW2. Data on life span were mainly derived from an official repository of birth and death records, but supplemented with other sources, including military files. RESULTS When comparing life spans of service veterans, there was no statistically significant reduction for the average life span of the 234 combat-exposed veterans in our sample from the 28th (Māori) Battalion (66.7 years), relative to the Māori veterans from two non-combat cohorts: the 132 personnel in the 15th Reinforcements (67.2 years) and the 147 personnel in Jayforce (66.9 years). CONCLUSIONS Despite a very high level of wounding in the combat-exposed group (48%), there were no statistically significant reductions in life span between this group and comparable non-combat exposed veterans. This finding contrasts to life span reductions found in a similar study of New Zealand veterans of WW1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Wilson
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - C Clement
- Independent researcher, Te Puke, New Zealand
| | - J A Summers
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - G Thomson
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - G Harper
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Clarke J, Dombrowski SU, Gkini E, Hoddinott P, Ingram J, MacArthur C, Moss N, Ocansey L, Roberts T, Thomson G, Sanders J, Sitch AJ, Stubbs C, Taylor B, Tearne S, Woolley R, Jolly K. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Assets-based feeding help Before and After birth (ABA-feed) for improving breastfeeding initiation and continuation: protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial (Version 3.0). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075460. [PMID: 37968005 PMCID: PMC10660903 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breastfeeding has health benefits for infants and mothers, yet the UK has low rates with marked social inequalities. The Assets-based feeding help Before and After birth (ABA) feasibility study demonstrated the acceptability of a proactive, assets-based, woman-centred peer support intervention, inclusive of all feeding types, to mothers, peer supporters and maternity services. The ABA-feed study aims to assess the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the ABA-feed intervention compared with usual care in first-time mothers in a full trial. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A multicentre randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation to explore clinical and cost-effectiveness, and embedded process evaluation to explore differences in implementation between sites. We aim to recruit 2730 primiparous women, regardless of feeding intention. Women will be recruited at 17 sites from antenatal clinics and various remote methods including social media and invitations from midwives and health visitors. Women will be randomised at a ratio of 1.43:1 to receive either ABA-feed intervention or usual care. A train the trainer model will be used to train local Infant Feeding Coordinators to train existing peer supporters to become 'infant feeding helpers' in the ABA-feed intervention. Infant feeding outcomes will be collected at 3 days, and 8, 16 and 24 weeks postbirth. The primary outcome will be any breastfeeding at 8 weeks postbirth. Secondary outcomes will include breastfeeding initiation, any and exclusive breastfeeding, formula feeding practices, anxiety, social support and healthcare utilisation. All analyses will be based on the intention-to-treat principle. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study protocol has been approved by the East of Scotland Research Ethics Committee. Trial results will be available through open-access publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at relevant meetings and conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN17395671.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Clarke
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Stephan U Dombrowski
- Department of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick Fredericton, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Eleni Gkini
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Bimingham, UK
| | - Pat Hoddinott
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professional Research Unit, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Jenny Ingram
- School of Social & Community Medicine, Bristol University, Bristol, UK
| | - Christine MacArthur
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ngawai Moss
- Centre for Public Health and Policy, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Laura Ocansey
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tracy Roberts
- Health Economics Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gillian Thomson
- School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, UK
| | - Julia Sanders
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Alice J Sitch
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Clive Stubbs
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Beck Taylor
- Warwick Medical School - Health Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Sarah Tearne
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca Woolley
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Bimingham, UK
| | - Kate Jolly
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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İsbir GG, Guner S, Beşen MA, Thomson G. Evaluation of labour and birth education by midwifery educators: A qualitative study from Turkey. Nurse Educ Pract 2023; 66:103515. [PMID: 36481496 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2022.103515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Midwifery students' education regarding labor and birth is crucial because it directly affects the quality of care provided to women in labor. AIMS Exploring educators' experiences of delivering labor and birth education to midwifery students and evaluating the circumstances that affect the quality of labor and birth education METHODS: This was a qualitative study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 educators teaching midwifery in 16 midwifery departments at universities in Turkey. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted. All transcripts were evaluated by two researchers, and codes were created. The codes formed the subthemes in terms of similarities and differences; themes were created based on combining subthemes. FINDINGS Three themes were identified. The first - "impacts of global changes on labor and birth education"- shows how labor and birth is affected by changing policies, philosophies, individuals, and cultures. The second theme - "opportunities/obstacles in labor and birth education"- shows how sources of information, as well as individual and systemic factors, create opportunities or obstacles for the quality of labor and birth education. The final theme - "recommendations for quality labor and birth education"- presents participants' suggestions for the effective integration of courses, use of sources of information, and updating of curriculum. DISCUSSION Changing policies, philosophies, individuals, and cultures affect labor and birth education. Individual and systemic factors and information sources create opportunities or barriers for the quality of labor and birth education. CONCLUSION A positive childbirth experience is a basic human right for both women and newborns. This can be made possible by professionals who have received quality labor and birth education. Thus, investment in midwifery education is an important cost-effective approach to improving health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sevil Guner
- Mersin University, School of Health, Midwifery Department, Turkey.
| | | | - Gillian Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit, University of Central Lancashire, Preston PR1 2NE, UK.
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Wilson N, Clement C, Summers JA, Thomson G, Harper G. Differential lifespan impacts on veterans by war exposure in the First World War. BMJ Mil Health 2022:e002278. [PMID: 36581499 DOI: 10.1136/military-2022-002278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There remains uncertainty around the impact of war on the lifespan of First World War (WW1) veterans. In particular, study comparison groups do not typically consider the 'healthy soldier effect'. METHODS We obtained lifespan data on a random sample of 857 war-exposed New Zealand WW1 veterans and compared this with lifespans of a non-war military cohort (n=1039). This comparison was possible as the non-war-cohort arrived in Europe too late to participate in the war, allowing a 'natural experiment' that avoided the 'healthy solider effect'. RESULTS The lifespan comparisons indicated lower mean lifespan in the war-exposed veteran cohort compared with the non-war veteran cohort (69.7 vs 71.1 years; p=0.0405). This gap persisted (range: 0.8-1.1 years) but was no longer statistically significant when only considering the non-Māori ethnic grouping (nearly all European/Pākehā personnel), when excluding additional deaths in the immediate postwar period up to 31 December 1923, and when excluding participation in any other wars. This was the case in both analysis of variance and Cox proportional hazards regression adjusting for year of birth and occupational status. Within the war-exposed cohort, there were suggestive patterns of increasing lifespan with increasing occupational status and military rank (eg, 69.5, 70.0 and 70.7 mean years as group-level occupational status progressively increased). There were also stark differences in lifespan of 8.3 years between Māori (Indigenous) and non-Māori veterans (p=0.0083). CONCLUSIONS The pattern of reduced lifespan in war-exposed versus non-war-exposed veterans was compatible with a smaller previous New Zealand study with comparable methodology. Veterans who were Māori had significantly lower lifespans than non-Māori veterans. There are a number of feasible avenues to further improve this type of work with existing data sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Wilson
- Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - C Clement
- Independent Genealogist, Te Puke, New Zealand
| | - J A Summers
- Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - G Thomson
- Public Health, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - G Harper
- Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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van den Berg L, Thomson G, de Jonge A, Balaam MC, Moncrieff G, Topalidou A, Downe S. 'Never waste a crisis': a commentary on the COVID-19 pandemic as a driver for innovation in maternity care. BJOG 2021; 129:3-8. [PMID: 34758179 PMCID: PMC8652457 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lmm van den Berg
- Department of Midwifery Science, AVAG/Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G Thomson
- School of Community Health & Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - A de Jonge
- Department of Midwifery Science, AVAG/Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M-C Balaam
- School of Community Health & Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - G Moncrieff
- School of Community Health & Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - A Topalidou
- School of Community Health & Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - S Downe
- School of Community Health & Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Abstract
AIMS Chronic loneliness is experienced by around a third of parents, but there is no comprehensive review into how, why and which parents experience loneliness. This scoping review aimed to provide insight into what is already known about parental loneliness and give directions for further applied and methodological research. METHODS Searches for peer-reviewed articles were undertaken in six databases: PsycINFO, Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus, during May 2019 to February 2020. We searched for English studies which examined loneliness experienced during parenthood, including studies that involved parents with children under 16 years and living at home and excluding studies on pregnancy, childbirth or postbirth hospital care. RESULTS From 2566 studies retrieved, 133 were included for analysis. Most studies (n = 80) examined the experience of loneliness in specific groups of parents, for example, teenage parents, parents of a disabled child. Other studies examined theoretical issues (n = 6) or health and wellbeing impacts on parents (n = 16) and their offspring (n = 17). There were 14 intervention studies with parents that measured loneliness as an outcome. Insights indicate that parental loneliness may be different to loneliness experienced in other cohorts. There is evidence that parental loneliness has direct and intergenerational impacts on parent and child mental health. Some parents (e.g. with children with chronic illness or disability, immigrant or ethnic minority parents) also appear to be at increased risk of loneliness although evidence is not conclusive. CONCLUSION This work has identified key gaps with further international, comparative and conceptual research needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Nowland
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire Brooke Building, Preston PR2 1HE, UK
| | - G Thomson
- University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - L McNally
- University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - T Smith
- University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - K Whittaker
- University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Jomeen J, Martin CR, Jones C, Marshall C, Ayers S, Burt K, Frodsham L, Horsch A, Midwinter D, O'Connell M, Shakespeare J, Sheen K, Thomson G. Tokophobia and fear of birth: a workshop consensus statement on current issues and recommendations for future research. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2020; 39:2-15. [PMID: 33206580 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2020.1843908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To discuss and develop a statement on the current state of the evidence and opinion in Fear of Childbirth (FoC) and Tokophobia (Tocophobia), and to provide recommendations. Background: A group met in 2019 to discuss the state of clinical and academic knowledge relating to FoC/Tokophobia. Five key areas were agreed as the focus of the meeting. Methods: 12 internationally acknowledged experts, in this or a closely related area (e.g. PTSD) met to discuss their understanding of the evidence for FoC/ Tokophobia and current practice. The consensus described in this paper constitutes the expression of the general opinion of the participants and does not necessarily imply unanimity. Keys points: Work focussed on tokophobia is recent and there remains a wide range of issues, which were addressed in the workshop including complexity in defining prevalence, a theoretical lack of understanding, which creates challenge for robust assessment and the identification of risk factors. An improved aetiological and developmental understanding of the tokophobia is required to underpin appropriate, effective and evidence-based interventions. Evaluation of pathways of care and relevant interventions, should be a focus of future research. Conclusion: Significant gaps remain within the FoC/tokophobia knowledge base. Further research is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jomeen
- School of Health & Human Sciences, Southern Cross University , Bilinga, Australia.,Institute for Clinical and Applied Health Research (ICAHR), University of Hull , Hull, UK
| | - C R Martin
- School of Health & Human Sciences, Southern Cross University , Bilinga, Australia.,Institute for Clinical and Applied Health Research (ICAHR), University of Hull , Hull, UK.,School of Nursing and Allied Health, Buckinghamshire New University , High Wycombe, UK
| | - C Jones
- Institute for Clinical and Applied Health Research (ICAHR), University of Hull , Hull, UK
| | - C Marshall
- Perinatal Mental Health Team, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust , Hull, UK
| | - S Ayers
- Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London , London, UK
| | - K Burt
- Expert by Experience , UK
| | - L Frodsham
- Obstetric Medicine, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust , London, UK
| | - A Horsch
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne , Lausanne, Switzerland.,Department Woman-Mother-Child, University Hospital , Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - D Midwinter
- Maternity and Midwifery Services, North Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust , Scunthorpe, UK
| | - M O'Connell
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland in Bahrain , Adliya, Bahrain
| | | | - K Sheen
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Liverpool John Moores University , Liverpool, UK
| | - G Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition & Nurture Unit, School of Community Health & Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire , Lancashire, UK.,School of Education, Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University , Falun, Sweden
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McKelvin G, Thomson G, Downe S. The childbirth experience: A systematic review of predictors and outcomes. Women Birth 2020; 34:407-416. [PMID: 33039281 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2020.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birth is often viewed as a pathological event, consequently, there has been an increase in literature focusing on predictors, experience and implications of traumatic childbirth and childbirth-related posttraumatic stress. However, to fully understand childbirth experiences a salutogenic perspective is required. This enables an understanding of what facilitates a positive childbirth experience besides what places women at risk of experiencing traumatic childbirth. OBJECTIVE To identify the psychosocial factors that could contribute to or be influenced by women's subjective accounts of childbirth. METHOD An in-depth literature search across four databases was undertaken. Quality appraisal based on internal and external validity was conducted and a combined numerical summary and categorical description were undertaken. FINDINGS Nineteen papers were included in the review and the variables grouped into three categories. The variables relate to 'Measures of labour and birth experience' (discussing the impact of events and perceptions during labour and birth). The second category discusses how 'support and relationships' can potentially shape the birth experience or be altered by it and finally, 'Psychological variables: influence and impact' is examined extensively. DISCUSSION The results of the review highlight significant contradictory evidence of what influences birth experiences. The findings confirm the dearth of available literature concerning positive birth experiences and most variables identified were pathogenic. This review suggests that such factors for PTSD may differ from those that influence birth experiences and should be examined separately. An enhanced understanding of the range of experiences is required to support women's rights in achieving a positive birth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gillian Thomson
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, UK
| | - Soo Downe
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, UK
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Slade P, West H, Thomson G, Lane S, Spiby H, Edwards RT, Charles JM, Garrett C, Flanagan B, Treadwell M, Hayden E, Weeks A. STRAWB2 (Stress and Wellbeing After Childbirth): a randomised controlled trial of targeted self‐help materials to prevent post‐traumatic stress disorder following childbirth. BJOG 2020; 127:886-896. [DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P Slade
- Department of Psychological Sciences Institute of Health and Life Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - H West
- Department of Psychological Sciences Institute of Health and Life Sciences University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - G Thomson
- School of Community Health and Midwifery University of Central Lancashire Preston UK
| | - S Lane
- Centre for Medical Statistics and Health Evaluation University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - H Spiby
- School of Health Sciences University of Nottingham Nottingham UK
| | - RT Edwards
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation Bangor University Gwynedd UK
| | - JM Charles
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation Bangor University Gwynedd UK
| | - C Garrett
- Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Preston UK
| | - B Flanagan
- Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Preston UK
| | | | - E Hayden
- Liverpool Women’s Hospital Foundation Trust Liverpool UK
| | - A Weeks
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
- Liverpool Women’s Hospital Foundation Trust and Liverpool Health Partners Liverpool UK
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Moran VH, Thomson G, Cook J, Storey H, Beeson L, MacArthur C, Wilson M. Qualitative exploration of women's experiences of intramuscular pethidine or remifentanil patient-controlled analgesia for labour pain. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e032203. [PMID: 31874879 PMCID: PMC7008414 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore women's experiences of remifentanil or pethidine for labour pain and infant feeding behaviours at 6weeks post partum. DESIGN Qualitative postnatal sub-study to the randomised controlled trial of remifentanil intravenous patient controlled analgesia (PCA) versus intramuscular pethidine for pain relief in labour (RESPITE). Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted at 6 weeks post partum, and thematic analysis was undertaken. SETTING Women recruited to the RESPITE trial from seven UK hospitals. PARTICIPANTS Eighty women consented and 49 (30 remifentanil group and 19 pethidine group) completed the interview. RESULTS Eight themes emerged which encompassed women's antenatal plans for pain management (Birth Expectations) through to their future preferences for pain relief (Reflections for Future Choices). Many women who used remifentanil felt it provided effective pain relief (Effectiveness of Pain Relief), whereas women in the pethidine group expressed more mixed views. Both groups described side effects, with women using pethidine frequently reporting nausea (Negative Physiological Responses) and women using remifentanil describing more cognitive effects (Cognitive Effects). Some women who used remifentanil reported restricted movements due to technical aspects of drug administration and fear of analgesia running out (Issues with Drug Administration). Women described how remifentanil enabled them to maintain their ability to stay focused during the birth (Enabling a Sense of Control). There was little difference in reported breastfeeding initiation and continuation between pethidine and remifentanil groups (Impact on Infant Behaviour and Breastfeeding). CONCLUSIONS Qualitative insights from a follow-up study to a trial which explored experiences of intravenous remifentanil PCA with intramuscular pethidine injection found that remifentanil appeared to provide effective pain relief while allowing women to remain alert and focused during labour, although as with pethidine, some side effects were noted. Overall, there was little difference in reported breastfeeding initiation and duration between the two groups. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN29654603.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Hall Moran
- College of Health and Wellbeing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Gillian Thomson
- College of Health and Wellbeing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Julie Cook
- College of Health and Wellbeing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Hannah Storey
- College of Health and Wellbeing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Leanne Beeson
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christine MacArthur
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Matthew Wilson
- Centre for Urgent and Emergency Care Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Gage R, Wilson N, Signal L, Thomson G. Shade in playgrounds: findings from a nationwide survey and implications for urban health policy. J Public Health (Oxf) 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10389-018-0990-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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Dykes F, Thomson G, Gardner C, Hall Moran V, Flacking R. Perceptions of European medical staff on the facilitators and barriers to physical closeness between parents and infants in neonatal units. Acta Paediatr 2016; 105:1039-46. [PMID: 27059114 PMCID: PMC5074324 DOI: 10.1111/apa.13417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Aim Studies have provided insights into factors that may facilitate or inhibit parent–infant closeness in neonatal units, but none have specifically focused on the perspectives of senior neonatal staff. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions and experiences of consultant neonatologists and senior nurses in five European countries with regard to these issues. Methods Six small group discussions and three‐one‐to‐one interviews were conducted with 16 consultant neonatologists and senior nurses representing nine neonatal units from Estonia, Finland, Norway, Spain and Sweden. The interviews explored facilitators and barriers to parent–infant closeness and implications for policy and practice, and thematic analysis was undertaken. Results Participants highlighted how a humanising care agenda that enabled parent–infant closeness was an aspiration, but pointed out that neonatal units were at different stages in achieving this. The facilitators and barriers to physical closeness included socio‐economic factors, cultural norms, the designs of neonatal units, resource issues, leadership, staff attitudes and practices and relationships between staff and parents. Conclusion Various factors affected parent–infant closeness in neonatal units in European countries. There needs to be the political motivation, appropriate policy planning, legislation and resource allocation to increase measures that support closeness agendas in neonatal units.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Dykes
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN) University of Central Lancashire Preston UK
- Centre for Reproductive, Infant and Child Health (RICH) School of Education, Health and Social Studies Dalarna University Dalarna Sweden
| | - G Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN) University of Central Lancashire Preston UK
| | - C Gardner
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN) University of Central Lancashire Preston UK
| | - V Hall Moran
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN) University of Central Lancashire Preston UK
| | - R Flacking
- Centre for Reproductive, Infant and Child Health (RICH) School of Education, Health and Social Studies Dalarna University Dalarna Sweden
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Stoll K, Hauck Y, Downe S, Edmonds J, Gross MM, Malott A, McNiven P, Swift E, Thomson G, Hall WA. Cross-cultural development and psychometric evaluation of a measure to assess fear of childbirth prior to pregnancy. Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare 2016; 8:49-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 02/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Riahi S, Thomson G, Duxbury J. An integrative review exploring decision-making factors influencing mental health nurses in the use of restraint. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2016; 23:116-28. [PMID: 26809740 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: There is emerging evidence highlighting the counter therapeutic impact of the use of restraint and promoting the minimization of this practice in mental health care. Mental health nurses are often the professional group using restraint and understanding factors influencing their decision-making becomes critical. To date, there are no other published papers that have undertaken a similar broad search to review this topic. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Eight emerging themes are identified as factors influencing mental health nurses decisions-making in the use of restraint. The themes are: 'safety for all', 'restraint as a necessary intervention', 'restraint as a last resort', 'role conflict', 'maintaining control', 'staff composition', 'knowledge and perception of patient behaviours', and 'psychological impact'. 'Last resort' appears to be the mantra of acceptable restraint use, although, to date, there are no studies that specifically consider what this concept actually is. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: These findings should be considered in the evaluation of the use of restraint in mental health settings and appropriate strategies placed to support shifting towards restraint minimization. As the concept of 'last resort' is mentioned in many policies and guidelines internationally with no published understanding of what this means, research should prioritize this as a critical next step in restraint minimization efforts. INTRODUCTION While mechanical and manual restraint as an institutional method of control within mental health settings may be perceived to seem necessary at times, there is emergent literature highlighting the potential counter-therapeutic impact of this practice for patients as well as staff. Nurses are the professional group who are most likely to use mechanical and manual restraint methods within mental health settings. In-depth insights to understand what factors influence nurses' decision-making related to restraint use are therefore warranted. AIM To explore what influences mental health nurses' decision-making in the use of restraint. METHOD An integrative review using Cooper's framework was undertaken. RESULTS Eight emerging themes were identified: 'safety for all', 'restraint as a necessary intervention', 'restraint as a last resort', 'role conflict', 'maintaining control', 'staff composition', 'knowledge and perception of patient behaviours', and 'psychological impact'. These themes highlight how mental health nurses' decision-making is influenced by ethical and safety responsibilities, as well as, interpersonal and staff-related factors. CONCLUSION Research to further understand the experience and actualization of 'last resort' in the use of restraint and to provide strategies to prevent restraint use in mental health settings are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Riahi
- Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, Whitby, ON, Canada
| | - G Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - J Duxbury
- University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.,University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Moran VH, Morgan H, Rothnie K, MacLennan G, Stewart F, Thomson G, Crossland N, Tappin D, Campbell M, Hoddinott P. Incentives to promote breastfeeding: a systematic review. Pediatrics 2015; 135:e687-702. [PMID: 25647672 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2014-2221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Few women in industrialized countries achieve the World Health Organization's recommendation to breastfeed exclusively for 6 months. Governments are increasingly seeking new interventions to address this problem, including the use of incentives. The goal of this study was to assess the evidence regarding the effectiveness of incentive interventions, delivered within or outside of health care settings, to individuals and/or their families seeking to increase and sustain breastfeeding in the first 6 months after birth. METHODS Searches of electronic databases, reference lists, and grey literature were conducted to identify relevant reports of published, unpublished, and ongoing studies. All study designs published in English, which met our definition of incentives and that were from a developed country, were eligible for inclusion. Abstract and full-text article review with sequential data extraction were conducted by 2 independent authors. RESULTS Sixteen full reports were included in the review. The majority evaluated multicomponent interventions of varying frequency, intensity, and duration. Incentives involved providing access to breast pumps, gifts, vouchers, money, food packages, and help with household tasks, but little consensus in findings was revealed. The lack of high-quality, randomized controlled trials identified by this review and the multicomponent nature of the interventions prohibited meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS This review found that the overall effect of providing incentives for breastfeeding compared with no incentives is unclear due to study heterogeneity and the variation in study quality. Further evidence on breastfeeding incentives offered to women is required to understand the possible effects of these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Hall Moran
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom;
| | - Heather Morgan
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Kieran Rothnie
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Graeme MacLennan
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Stewart
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Gillian Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Crossland
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - David Tappin
- David Tappin, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom; and
| | - Marion Campbell
- Health Services Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Pat Hoddinott
- Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professions Research Unit, University of Stirling, United Kingdom
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Schmied V, Thomson G, Byrom A, Burns E, Sheehan A, Dykes F. A meta-ethnographic study of health care staff perceptions of the WHO/UNICEF Baby Friendly Health Initiative. Women Birth 2014; 27:242-9. [PMID: 24957926 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2013] [Revised: 04/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implementation of the Baby Friendly Health Initiative (BFHI) is associated with increases in breastfeeding initiation and duration of exclusive breastfeeding and 'any' breastfeeding. However, implementation of the BFHI is challenging. AIM To identify and synthesise health care staff perceptions of the WHO/UNICEF BFHI and identify facilitators and barriers for implementation. METHOD Seven qualitative studies, published between 2003 and 2013 were analysed using meta-ethnographic synthesis. FINDINGS Three overarching themes were identified. First the BFHI was viewed variously as a 'desirable innovation or an unfriendly imposition'. Participants were passionate about supporting breastfeeding and improving consistency in the information provided. This view was juxtaposed against the belief that BFHI represents an imposition on women's choices, and is a costly exercise for little gain in breastfeeding rates. The second theme highlighted cultural and organisational constraints and obstacles to BFHI implementation including resource issues, entrenched staff practices and staff rationalisation of non-compliance. Theme three captured a level of optimism and enthusiasm amongst participants who could identify a dedicated and credible leader to lead the BFHI change process. Collaborative engagement with all key stakeholders was crucial. CONCLUSIONS Health care staff hold variant beliefs and attitudes towards BFHI, which can help or hinder the implementation process. The introduction of the BFHI at a local level requires detailed planning, extensive collaboration, and an enthusiastic and committed leader to drive the change process. This synthesis has highlighted the importance of thinking more creatively about the translation of this global policy into effective change at the local level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Schmied
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Gillian Thomson
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN), School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Byrom
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN), School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Burns
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Athena Sheehan
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia
| | - Fiona Dykes
- Maternal and Infant Nutrition and Nurture Unit (MAINN), School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the UK, there have been a number of national initiatives to promote earlier detection and prompt referral of patients presenting to primary care with signs and symptoms of cancer. The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of a range of primary care staff in promoting earlier presentation, detection and referral of patients with symptoms suggestive of cancer. SETTING Six primary care practices in northwest England. PARTICIPANTS 39 primary care staff from a variety of disciplines took part in five group and four individual interviews. RESULTS The global theme to emerge from the interviews was 'managing risk', which had three underpinning organising themes: 'complexity', relating to uncertainty of cancer diagnoses, service fragmentation and plethora of guidelines; 'continuity', relating to relationships between practice staff and their patients and between primary and secondary care; 'conflict' relating to policy drivers and staff role boundaries. A key concern of staff was that policymakers and those implementing cancer initiatives did not fully understand how risk was managed within primary care. CONCLUSIONS Primary care staff expressed a range of views and opinions on the benefits of cancer initiatives. National initiatives did not appear to wholly resolve issues in managing risk for all practitioners. Staff were concerned about the number of guidelines and priorities they were expected to implement. These issues need to be considered by policymakers when developing and implementing new initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Cook
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Gillian Thomson
- School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Paola Dey
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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Adams R, Brown GT, Davidson M, Fisher E, Mathisen J, Thomson G, Webster NR. Efficacy of dexmedetomidine compared with midazolam for sedation in adult intensive care patients: a systematic review. Br J Anaesth 2013; 111:703-10. [PMID: 23748199 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aet194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) often require sedatives which commonly include midazolam and the more recently developed α2-receptor agonist, dexmedetomidine. It was our aim to compare the sedative and clinical effectiveness of dexmedetomidine vs midazolam in adults admitted to ICU, using an objective appraisal of randomized control trials. Medline, Embase, SCOPUS, Web of Knowledge, Cinhal, the United States National Library of Medicine, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched using keywords: 'dexmedetomidine', 'midazolam', and 'intensive care'. These were limited to human studies and adults (>18 yr old). Six randomized controlled trials were found and were critically appraised using a standardized appraisal method. Two papers described the time spent by each intervention group within a specified target sedation range and both found no statistically significant difference between midazolam and dexmedetomidine (P=0.18 and P=0.15). A third paper found no statistically significant difference in the length of time that patients were sedated within a target zone (P=0.445). Two additional pilot studies did not report P values as they were insufficiently statistically powered. A final paper found that, of the eight occasions measured, patients on dexmedetomidine were more often within the target sedation range than patients on midazolam. The sedative benefits of dexmedetomidine vs midazolam remain inconclusive. While some secondary outcomes showed clinical effectiveness of dexmedetomidine, more research is needed to validate the findings of these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Adams
- University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK
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Idris I, Pillai A, Fernando DJ, Thomson G, Tate H. Responders to insulin therapy at 18 months in adults with newly diagnosed diabetes: which insulin regimen? Diabet Med 2013; 30:e95-100. [PMID: 23215947 DOI: 10.1111/dme.12096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe baseline characteristics of responders to insulin therapy (HbA(1c) targets < 58 mmol/mol, 7.5%) at 18 months among adults with newly diagnosed diabetes. METHODS A retrospective UK study derived from 479 general practices electronic dataset. We included all adults (age > 18 years) with newly diagnosed diabetes who required insulin therapy within 6 months of diagnosis. The data comprised insulin regimen (long-acting only; premixed insulin only; basal bolus insulin regimen), gender, Townsend quintile, baseline and an 18-month measurement of clinical and biochemical variables. Multiple imputations were undertaken and logistic regression used to assess the effect of covariates. RESULTS A total of 1492 patients (aged 19-93 years) were analysed. Means (SD) baseline HbA(1c) and BMI were 10.3% (2.6%) and 29.6 (7.0%), respectively. Following multiple imputation for missing data, logistic regression analysis indicated important covariates to achieve HbA(1c) targets were baseline HbA(1c), lipid lowering therapy, gender and age. Including all covariates, those treated with premixed insulin were 47% more likely to achieve target HbA(1c) at 18 months than those treated with a basal-bolus regimes (adjusted OR 1.47; 95% CI 1.12-1.92, P = 0.006)) and 32% more likely than those treated with long-acting insulin was (adjusted OR 1.32; 95% CI 1.01-1.74, P = 0.044). Those with a higher baseline HbA(1c) level, on lipid-lowering therapy, women and younger patients had a lower response rate. Mean weight gain (SD) was 2.4 kg (8.5 kg) and was not influenced by treatment regimen. CONCLUSION The use of premixed insulin regimen among newly diagnosed patients with diabetes appears to be most effective in reaching HbA(1c) target values, independent of other confounders. The appropriate choice of insulin regimen at initiation should therefore take into account various metabolic and psychosocial factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Idris
- School of Graduate Entry Medicine, University of Nottingham, Derby, UK.
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Melino VJ, Drew EA, Ballard RA, Reeve WG, Thomson G, White RG, O'Hara GW. Identifying abnormalities in symbiotic development between Trifolium spp. and Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii leading to sub-optimal and ineffective nodule phenotypes. Ann Bot 2012; 110:1559-72. [PMID: 22989463 PMCID: PMC3503493 DOI: 10.1093/aob/mcs206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Legumes overcome nitrogen limitations by entering into a mutualistic symbiosis with N(2)-fixing bacteria (rhizobia). Fully compatible associations (effective) between Trifolium spp. and Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii result from successful recognition of symbiotic partners in the rhizosphere, root hair infection and the formation of nodules where N(2)-fixing bacteroids reside. Poorly compatible associations can result in root nodule formation with minimal (sub-optimal) or no (ineffective) N(2)-fixation. Despite the abundance and persistence of strains in agricultural soils which are poorly compatible with the commercially grown clover species, little is known of how and why they fail symbiotically. The aims of this research were to determine the morphological aberrations occurring in sub-optimal and ineffective clover nodules and to determine whether reduced bacteroid numbers or reduced N(2)-fixing activity is the main cause for the Sub-optimal phenotype. METHODS Symbiotic effectiveness of four Trifolium hosts with each of four R. leguminosarum bv. trifolii strains was assessed by analysis of plant yields and nitrogen content; nodule yields, abundance, morphology and internal structure; and bacteroid cytology, quantity and activity. KEY RESULTS Effective nodules (Nodule Function 83-100 %) contained four developmental zones and N(2)-fixing bacteroids. In contrast, Sub-optimal nodules of the same age (Nodule Function 24-57 %) carried prematurely senescing bacteroids and a small bacteroid pool resulting in reduced shoot N. Ineffective-differentiated nodules carried bacteroids aborted at stage 2 or 3 in differentiation. In contrast, bacteroids were not observed in Ineffective-vegetative nodules despite the presence of bacteria within infection threads. CONCLUSIONS Three major responses to N(2)-fixation incompatibility between Trifolium spp. and R. l. trifolii strains were found: failed bacterial endocytosis from infection threads into plant cortical cells, bacteroid differentiation aborted prematurely, and a reduced pool of functional bacteroids which underwent premature senescence. We discuss possible underlying genetic causes of these developmental abnormalities and consider impacts on N(2)-fixation of clovers.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. J. Melino
- Centre for Rhizobium Studies, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - E. A. Drew
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, GPO Box 397, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - R. A. Ballard
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, GPO Box 397, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - W. G. Reeve
- Centre for Rhizobium Studies, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - G. Thomson
- Centre for Rhizobium Studies, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - R. G. White
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Plant Industry, GPO Box 1600, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - G. W. O'Hara
- Centre for Rhizobium Studies, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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James D, Hopkins G, Hamilton N, Hamilton N, Hitchin J, Lyons A, Thomson G, Waddell I, Jordan A, Ogilvie D. 1068 Potent, Cellular Inhibitors of Glucose-6-phosphate Dehydrogenase – Potential for Novel Therapeutic Intervention in Cancer. Eur J Cancer 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(12)71677-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Papineni P, Osborne J, Kafatos G, Thomson G, Brooks T. Dengue and chikungunya fever in returning travellers: experience from the Health Protection Agency, UK. Int J Infect Dis 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2012.05.921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Hollenbach JA, Mack SJ, Gourraud PA, Single RM, Maiers M, Middleton D, Thomson G, Marsh SGE, Varney MD. A community standard for immunogenomic data reporting and analysis: proposal for a STrengthening the REporting of Immunogenomic Studies statement. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 78:333-44. [PMID: 21988720 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0039.2011.01777.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Modern high-throughput HLA and KIR typing technologies are generating a wealth of immunogenomic data with the potential to revolutionize the fields of histocompatibility and immune-related disease association and population genetic research, much as SNP-based approaches have revolutionized association research. The STrengthening the REporting of Genetic Association studies (STREGA) statement provides community-based data reporting and analysis standards for genomic disease-association studies, identifying specific areas in which adoption of reporting guidelines can improve the consistent interpretation of genetic studies. While aspects of STREGA can be applied to immunogenomic studies, HLA and KIR research requires additional consideration, as the high levels of polymorphism associated with immunogenomic data pose unique methodological and computational challenges to the synthesis of information across datasets. Here, we outline the principle challenges to consistency in immunogenomic studies, and propose that an immunogenomic-specific analog to the STREGA statement, a STrengthening the REporting of Immunogenomic Studies (STREIS) statement, be developed as part of the 16th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop. We propose that STREIS extends at least four of the 22 elements of the STREGA statement to specifically address issues pertinent to immunogenomic data: HLA and KIR nomenclature, data-validation, ambiguity resolution, and the analysis of highly polymorphic genetic systems. As with the STREGA guidelines, the intent behind STREIS is not to dictate the design of immunogenomic studies, but to ensure consistent and transparent reporting of research, facilitating the synthesis of HLA and KIR data across studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Hollenbach
- Center for Genetics, Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA.
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Maltezou HC, Fusco FM, Schilling S, De Iaco G, Gottschalk R, Brodt HR, Bannister B, Brouqui P, Thomson G, Puro V, Ippolito G. Infection control practices in facilities for highly infectious diseases across Europe. J Hosp Infect 2012; 81:184-91. [PMID: 22648013 PMCID: PMC7114579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2012.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The management of patients with highly infectious diseases (HIDs) is a challenge for healthcare provision requiring a high level of care without compromising the safety of other patients and healthcare workers. AIM To study the infection control practice in isolation facilities participating in the European Network for Highly Infectious Diseases (EuroNHID) project. METHODS A survey was conducted during 2009 of 48 isolation facilities caring for patients with HIDs in 16 European countries. Checklists and standard evaluation forms were used to collect and interpret data on hand hygiene, routine hygiene and disinfection, and waste management. FINDINGS Forty percent of HIDs had no non-hand-operated sinks or alcohol-based antiseptic distributors, while 27% did not have procedures for routine hygiene, final disinfection, or safe discarding of non-disposable objects or equipment. There was considerable variation in the management of waste and in the training of housekeeping personnel. EuroNHID has developed recommendations for hand hygiene, disinfection, routine hygiene, and waste management. CONCLUSIONS Most aspects of hand hygiene, routine hygiene and disinfection, and waste management were considered at least partially adequate in the majority of European isolation facilities dedicated for the care of patients with HIDs. But considerable variability was observed, with management of waste and training of housekeeping personnel being generally less satisfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Maltezou
- Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Athens, Greece.
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Abstract
Drawing on submissions to the 2006-2007 New Zealand Inquiry into Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes, this article outlines how the food and marketing industries (industry) and the public health sector framed the issue of obesity. The analysis revealed that industry framed obesity as a consequence of poor lifestyle choices attributed largely to knowledge, cultural or other character deficits. Industry argued that lack of physical activity rather than increased food consumption was the dominant cause of obesity. In contrast, public health groups positioned obesity as a normal response to an obesogenic environment, characterized by the ubiquitous marketing and availability of low-cost, energy-dense/nutrient-poor foods. For public health groups, increased consumption of energy-dense/nutrient-poor foods was positioned as the dominant cause of obesity. Many public health submitters also suggested that social inequalities contributed to obesity. Industry emphasized education as the key solution to obesity, while public health groups argued for regulation of the activities of the food and marketing industries, and policies to address wider determinants of health and social inequalities. Identifying and documenting these frames, by making transparent the interests of the frame's sponsors, contributes to greater understanding of the wider policy context around obesity and provides useful information for public health advocacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G L Jenkin
- Health Promotion & Policy Research Unit, Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.
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Thompson K, Thomson G, Mittal H, Parks S, Dove B, Speight S, Walker J, Pappachan J, Hoffman P, Bennett A. FP3.2 Transmission of influenza to health-care workers in intensive care units – could Aerosol generating procedures play a role? J Hosp Infect 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s0195-6701(10)60017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Redfern S, Marshall S, Railton E, Youlton E, Vivancos R, Thomson G, Beeching N. P15.01 A toolkit to facilitate rapid immunisation and education of hospital staff during influenza outbreaks. J Hosp Infect 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/s0195-6701(10)60170-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hansen S, Hoek J, Sutton R, Thomson G. Tobacco control haiku. Tob Control 2010. [DOI: 10.1136/tc.2009.033993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Hoek J, Gifford H, Pirikahu G, Thomson G, Edwards R. How do tobacco retail displays affect cessation attempts? Findings from a qualitative study. Tob Control 2010; 19:334-7. [DOI: 10.1136/tc.2009.031203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Maltezou HC, Andonova L, Andraghetti R, Bouloy M, Ergonul O, Jongejan F, Kalvatchev N, Nichol S, Niedrig M, Platonov A, Thomson G, Leitmeyer K, Zeller H. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in Europe: current situation calls for preparedness. Euro Surveill 2010; 15:19504. [PMID: 20403306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last decade Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) emerged and/or re-emerged in several Balkan countries, Turkey, southwestern regions of the Russian Federation, and the Ukraine, with considerable high fatality rates. Reasons for re-emergence of CCHF include climate and anthropogenic factors such as changes in land use, agricultural practices or hunting activities, movement of livestock that may influence host-tick-virus dynamics. In order to be able to design prevention and control measures targeted at the disease, mapping of endemic areas and risk assessment for CCHF in Europe should be completed. Furthermore, areas at risk for further CCHF expansion should be identified and human, vector and animal surveillance be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Maltezou
- Hellenic Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Athens, Greece.
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Maltezou HC, Andonova L, Andraghetti R, Bouloy M, Ergonul O, Jongejan F, Kalvatchev N, Nichol S, Niedrig M, Platonov A, Thomson G, Leitmeyer K, Zeller H. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever in Europe: current situation calls for preparedness. Euro Surveill 2010. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.15.10.19504-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last decade Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) emerged and/or re-emerged in several Balkan countries, Turkey, southwestern regions of the Russian Federation, and the Ukraine, with considerable high fatality rates. Reasons for re-emergence of CCHF include climate and anthropogenic factors such as changes in land use, agricultural practices or hunting activities, movement of livestock that may influence host-tick-virus dynamics. In order to be able to design prevention and control measures targeted at the disease, mapping of endemic areas and risk assessment for CCHF in Europe should be completed. Furthermore, areas at risk for further CCHF expansion should be identified and human, vector and animal surveillance be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Maltezou
- Hellenic Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | - O Ergonul
- Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - F Jongejan
- Utrecht Centre for Tick-borne Diseases, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - N Kalvatchev
- National Centre of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - S Nichol
- Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, United States
| | - M Niedrig
- Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Platonov
- Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - G Thomson
- Health Protection Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - K Leitmeyer
- European Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - H Zeller
- European Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Stockholm, Sweden
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Mack S, Erlich H, Feolo M, Fernandez-Vina M, Gourrauud PA, Helmberg W, Kanga U, Kupatawintu P, Lancaster A, Maiers M, Maldonado-Torres H, Marsh S, Meyer D, Middleton D, Mueller C, Nathalang O, Park M, Single R, Tait B, Thomson G, Varney M, Hollenbach J. 150-P: IDAWG - the Immunogenomic Data-Analysis Working Group. Hum Immunol 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2009.09.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Abstract
AIM To clarify the extent of use of foreign (including duty free, foreign normal retail and smuggled) tobacco, and to estimate missed government tax revenue in a geographically isolated country. METHODS Discarded cigarette packs were collected on the streets of four cities and six New Zealand towns/rural locations between November 2008 and January 2009. RESULTS Out of a total of 1310 packs collected, 42 foreign packs were identified (3.2%, 95% CI 2.4% to 4.3%). Overall, the distribution of packs by country and company was not suggestive of any clustering that might indicate smuggling. At 3.2% of packs being "foreign", the New Zealand government is losing around $36 million per year in tobacco-related tax relative to if all this tobacco was purchased in New Zealand. For various reasons (including that it was not possible to identify packs bought duty free within New Zealand, and other New Zealand survey data indicating duty free product use at 3.8% of packs), the figure reached is probably an underestimate of the true level. CONCLUSION The New Zealand government is missing out on revenue that could be used for improving the funding of tobacco control, and smokers are being exposed to cheaper tobacco thus increasing their risk of continuing to smoke. This government and other governments can and should act at the international and national levels to end the sales of duty free tobacco.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Wilson
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, PO Box 7343, Wellington South, New Zealand.
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Fusco F, Schilling S, Puro V, Brodt HR, Follin P, Jarhall B, Bannister B, Maltezou H, Thomson G, Brouqui P, Ippolito G. EuroNHID checklists for the assessment of high-level isolation units and referral centres for highly infectious diseases: results from the pilot phase of a European survey. Clin Microbiol Infect 2009; 15:711-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2009.02874.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Bronson PG, Ramsay PP, Thomson G, Barcellos LF. Analysis of maternal-offspring HLA compatibility, parent-of-origin and non-inherited maternal effects for the classical HLA loci in type 1 diabetes. Diabetes Obes Metab 2009; 11 Suppl 1:74-83. [PMID: 19143818 PMCID: PMC2635943 DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-1326.2008.01006.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a complex trait for which variation in the classical human leucocyte antigen (HLA) loci within the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) significantly influences disease risk. To date, HLA class II DR-DQ genes confer the strongest known genetic effect in T1D. HLA loci may also influence T1D through additional inherited or non-inherited effects. Evidence for the role of increased maternal-offspring HLA compatibility, and both parent-of-origin (POO) and non-inherited maternal HLA (NIMA) effects in autoimmune disease has been previously established. The current study tested hypotheses that classical HLA loci influence T1D through these mechanisms, in addition to genetic transmission of particular risk alleles. METHODS The Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium (T1DGC) cohort was of European descent and consisted of 2271 affected sib-pair families (total n = 11 023 individuals). Class I genes HLA-A, Cw and B, and class II genes HLA-DRB1, DQA1, DQB1, DPA1 and DPB1 were studied. The pedigree disequilibrium test was used to examine transmission of HLA alleles to individuals with T1D. Conditional logistic regression was used to model compatibility relationships between mother-offspring and father-offspring for all HLA loci. POO and NIMA effects were investigated by comparing frequencies of maternal and paternal transmitted and non-transmitted HLA alleles for each locus. Analyses were also stratified by gender of T1D-affected offspring. RESULTS Strong associations were observed for all classical HLA loci except for DPA1, as expected. Compatibility differences between mother-offspring and father-offspring were not observed for any HLA loci. Furthermore, POO and NIMA HLA effects influencing T1D were not present. CONCLUSIONS Maternal-offspring HLA compatibility, POO and NIMA effects for eight classical HLA loci were investigated. Results suggest that these HLA-related effects are unlikely to play a major role in the development of T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Bronson
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Abstract
AIM Several studies have indicated that genes in the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) region additional to the HLA class II DRB1-DQB1 contribute to type 1 diabetes (T1D) susceptibility. The aim of this study was to assess if markers in the class III Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) region are associated with T1D after accounting for linkage disequilibrium (LD) with DRB1-DQB1. METHODS We investigated 356 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the class III region covering 1.1 megabases in two subsets of data: 289 Human Biological Data Interchange (HBDI) Caucasian families and 597 additional Caucasian families collected by the Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium (T1DGC). Analysis conditioning on DRB1-DQB1 was performed using the overall conditional genotype method. RESULTS Thirteen SNPs replicated in both subsets of the data and showed evidence of an additional effect on disease risk. Although some of the SNPs are in tight LD with each other, at least six of the associations were not because of LD with other class III markers. The strongest association within class III markers was with rs2395106 that maps 5' to the NOTCH4 gene, which has also been implicated in susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis. The second association was with rs707915 mapping to the MSH5 gene, in a block of six markers significantly associated with T1D after adjusting for LD with DR-DQ. In total, six-independent associations within class III were observed although results were not adjusted for LD with class I. CONCLUSIONS Our data confirm that the class III region is involved in T1D susceptibility and suggest that more than one gene in the region is involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Valdes
- Twin Research Unit, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.
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Riddick L, Thomson G, Wilson N, Purdie G. Killing the canary: the international epidemiology of the homicide of media workers. J Epidemiol Community Health 2008; 62:682-8. [PMID: 18621952 DOI: 10.1136/jech.2007.062794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the international epidemiology of the homicide of media workers, and investigate country-level risk factors. METHODS Data on the homicides occurring from 2002 to 2006 were collected and collated from five international databases. Analyses included consideration of seven existing international indices relating to human development, and to the social and political functioning of states. RESULTS During the 5-year period, 370 deaths in 54 countries met our definitions of homicides and media workers. Almost all (89%) were nationals of the country in which they died. The annual number of such homicides globally has more than doubled, from 41 in 2002 to 104 in 2006 (including 49 in Iraq in 2006). Less than 25% of the homicides of media workers over the last 5 years have resulted in an arrest or prosecution. Statistically significant associations (p<0.001; Political Terror Scores, OR 1.15; Corruption Perceptions Index, OR 0.53; Overall Failed State Index, OR 1.05; Failed State Index 7, OR 1.52; Failed State Index 9, OR 1.55; Failed State Index 10, OR 1.61) were found on logistic regression between the occurrence of the homicide of media workers in countries and scoring on six of the seven indices associated with country-level sociopolitical development. These indices reflected high levels of political terror and corruption, low government legitimisation, poor human rights, and uncontrolled armed groups. However, in terms of the homicide rate for countries, these associations were significant for only four of the seven indices (the general functionality of government, ability of governments to control armed groups, the level of political terror, and the level of violation of rights). CONCLUSIONS The homicide of media workers increased substantially in this 5-year period and was found to be particularly concentrated in selected countries such as Iraq. The authors were able to identify specific sociopolitical risk factors for homicide occurrence, and for homicide rates at the country level.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Riddick
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, Box 7343, Wellington South, New Zealand
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Abstract
As smoke-free car policy is a frontier domain for tobacco control, attitudes to smoke-free private car laws are briefly reviewed. Medline and Google Scholar searches for the period up to mid-November 2008, from English language sources, were undertaken. Studies were included that contained data from national and subnational populations (eg, in states and provinces), but not for smaller administrative units, eg, cities or councils. Jurisdiction, sample size and survey questions were assessed. One reviewer conducted the data extraction and both authors conducted assessments. A total of 15 relevant studies (from 1988) were identified, set in North America, the UK and Australasia. The available data indicates that, for the jurisdictions with data, there is majority public support for laws requiring cars that contain children to be smoke free. There appears to be an increase over time in this support. In five surveys in 2005 or since (in California, New Zealand and Australia), the support from smokers was 77% or more. The high levels of public (and smoker) support for smoke-free car laws found in the studies to date suggest that this can be a relatively non-controversial tobacco control intervention. Survey series on attitudes to such laws are needed, and surveys in jurisdictions where the issue has not been investigated to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Thomson
- University of Otago, Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand.
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Sommerfield T, Chalmers J, Youngson G, Heeley C, Fleming M, Thomson G. The changing epidemiology of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in Scotland. Arch Dis Child 2008; 93:1007-11. [PMID: 18285388 DOI: 10.1136/adc.2007.128090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aetiology of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) has not been fully elucidated. Since the 1990s, a sharp decline in IHPS has been reported in various countries. Recent research from Sweden reported a correlation between falling rates of IHPS and of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This was attributed to a reduction in the number of infants sleeping in the prone position following the "Back to Sleep" campaign. OBJECTIVES To describe the changing epidemiology of IHPS in Scotland, to examine the relationship between IHPS and SIDS rates and to examine trends in other factors that may explain the observed reduction in IHPS incidence. DESIGN Incidence rates of IHPS and SIDS were derived from routine data and their relationship analysed. Trends in mean maternal age, maternal smoking, mean birth weight and breastfeeding rates were also examined. SETTING The whole of Scotland between 1981 and 2004. RESULTS IHPS incidence fell from 4.4 to 1.4 per 1000 live births in Scotland between 1981 and 2004. Rates were consistently higher in males, although the overall incidence patterns in males and females were similar. Rates showed a positive relationship with deprivation. The fall in the incidence of IHPS preceded the fall in SIDS by 2 years and the incidence of SIDS displayed less variability than that of IHPS. Significant temporal trends were also observed in other maternal and infant characteristics. CONCLUSION There has been a marked reduction in Scotland's IHPS incidence, but this is unlikely to be a consequence of a change in infant sleeping position.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Sommerfield
- Information Services Division, NHS National Services Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
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Prom-u-thai C, Huang L, Rerkasem B, Thomson G, Kuo J, Saunders M, Dell B. Distribution of Protein Bodies and Phytate-Rich Inclusions in Grain Tissues of Low and High Iron Rice Genotypes. Cereal Chem 2008. [DOI: 10.1094/cchem-85-2-0257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Prom-u-thai
- School of Land, Crop and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
- Corresponding author. Phone: +61 7 33652526. Fax: +61 7 33651177. E-mail address:
| | - L. Huang
- Center for Mined Land Rehabilitation, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - B. Rerkasem
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - G. Thomson
- School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - J. Kuo
- Center for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - M. Saunders
- Center for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - B. Dell
- School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
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Edwards R, Thomson G, Wilson N, Waa A, Bullen C, O'Dea D, Gifford H, Glover M, Laugesen M, Woodward A. After the smoke has cleared: evaluation of the impact of a new national smoke-free law in New Zealand. Tob Control 2008; 17:e2. [DOI: 10.1136/tc.2007.020347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Bamhare C, Thomson G, Latif A, Mulumba M, Chisembele C, Derah N, Mataa L, Mokopasetso M, Dlamini P, Jamal S, de Klerk G, Letuka O, Chikungwa P, Mumba T, Dombolo EF, Wanda G, Münstermann S, van Schalkwyk L, Gummow B, Hendrickx G, Berkvens D, Marcotty T, Thys E, Van den Bossche P. Building capacity for improved veterinary epidemiosurveillance in southern Africa. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2007; 78:92-8. [PMID: 17941602 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v78i2.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
A workshop to produce recommendations on training requirements for improved epidemiosurveillance of livestock diseases in southern Africa was organised at the Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases in the Veterinary Faculty of the University of Pretoria. It was attended by 23 persons representing 10 different southern African countries. The majority of the participants were actively involved in veterinary epidemiosurveillance and many of them were members of the SADC Epidemiology and Informatics Subcommittee. Discussions focused on (i) epidemiosurveillance networks and their 2 main components, i.e. (ii) diagnosis and (iii) information flow. The debates were guided by 3 questions; (i) what are the requirements for an effective network, (ii) what cannot be achieved with existing capacity and (iii) how can the current capacity be improved. Workshop participants developed lists of realistic capacity building needs, which were divided into structural needs and training requirements. Structural needs mainly concerned communication means and quality assurance. With regard to training, the need for appropriate continuing education of all actors at the various disease management levels (non-professional, para-professional, professional) was expressed. Special emphasis was put on capacity building at the lowest level, i.e. the livestock owner and the para-professionals at the community level. At the international level, it was felt that special emphasis should be put on building capacity to improve the understanding of international agreements on trade in animals and animal products and to improve the capacity of negotiating such agreements.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Bamhare
- Directorate of Veterinary Services, Windhoek, Namibia
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Beaulieu AD, Peloso P, Bensen W, Clark AJ, Watson CPN, Gardner-Nix J, Thomson G, Piraino PS, Eisenhoffer J, Harsanyi Z, Darke AC. A randomized, double-blind, 8-week crossover study of once-daily controlled-release tramadol versus immediate-release tramadol taken as needed for chronic noncancer pain. Clin Ther 2007; 29:49-60. [PMID: 17379046 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2007.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of controlled-release (CR) tramadol and immediate-release (IR) tramadol in patients with moderate or greater intensity chronic noncancer pain. METHODS A total of 122 patients underwent washout from all opioids 2 to 7 days before randomization to 1 of 2 groups: active CR tramadol 200 mg every morning plus placebo IR tramadol 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours PRN rescue, or placebo CR tramadol 200 mg every morning plus active IR tramadol 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours PRN rescue. After 2 weeks, the doses were increased to CR tramadol 400 mg or placebo and IR tramadol 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours PRN or placebo, as rescue. After 4 weeks in the first phase, patients crossed over to the alternative treatment for another 4 weeks. Pain intensity (100-mm visual analog scale [VAS] and 5-point ordinal scales) was assessed twice daily in diaries. Pain intensity, Pain and Disability Index (PDI; 0-10 ordinal scale), Pain and Sleep Questionnaire (100-mm VAS), and analgesic effectiveness (7-point ordinal scale) were assessed at biweekly clinic visits. RESULTS Sixty-five patients (35 men, 30 women) completed the study. Mean (SD) age was 56.5 (12.7) years; mean (SD) weight was 82.0 (18.5) kg. Daily diary pain intensity (mean [SD]) was significantly lower in the CR tramadol group than in the IR tramadol group in the last 2 weeks of each phase (completers: VAS, 29.9 [20.5] vs 36.2 [20.4] mm, P < 0.001; ordinal scale, 1.41 [0.7] vs 1.64 [0.6], P < 0.001; intent-to-treat [ITT] population: VAS, 32.5 [22.9] vs 38.6 [21.2] mm, P < 0.003; ordinal scale, 1.50 [0.8] vs 1.72 [0.7], P < 0.002). The overall pain intensity scores from the daily diary were also significantly better with CR tramadol for both the completers and ITT. Similar results were obtained on the biweekly VAS pain intensity questionnaire. No differences were found between treatments in total PDI or overall Pain and Sleep scores in either population. For the completers, both patients and investigators rated effectiveness higher for CR tramadol than for IR tramadol (P < 0.004 and P < 0.008 for patients and investigators, respectively). CONCLUSION This study reports significant improvement in pain intensity with CR tramadol as compared with IR tramadol.
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Thomson G, Valdes AM, Noble JA, Kockum I, Grote MN, Najman J, Erlich HA, Cucca F, Pugliese A, Steenkiste A, Dorman JS, Caillat-Zucman S, Hermann R, Ilonen J, Lambert AP, Bingley PJ, Gillespie KM, Lernmark A, Sanjeevi CB, Rønningen KS, Undlien DE, Thorsby E, Petrone A, Buzzetti R, Koeleman BPC, Roep BO, Saruhan-Direskeneli G, Uyar FA, Günoz H, Gorodezky C, Alaez C, Boehm BO, Mlynarski W, Ikegami H, Berrino M, Fasano ME, Dametto E, Israel S, Brautbar C, Santiago-Cortes A, Frazer de Llado T, She JX, Bugawan TL, Rotter JI, Raffel L, Zeidler A, Leyva-Cobian F, Hawkins BR, Chan SH, Castano L, Pociot F, Nerup J. Relative predispositional effects of HLA class II DRB1-DQB1 haplotypes and genotypes on type 1 diabetes: a meta-analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 70:110-27. [PMID: 17610416 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0039.2007.00867.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The direct involvement of the human leukocyte antigen class II DR-DQ genes in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is well established, and these genes display a complex hierarchy of risk effects at the genotype and haplotype levels. We investigated, using data from 38 studies, whether the DR-DQ haplotypes and genotypes show the same relative predispositional effects across populations and ethnic groups. Significant differences in risk within a population were considered, as well as comparisons across populations using the patient/control (P/C) ratio. Within a population, the ratio of the P/C ratios for two different genotypes or haplotypes is a function only of the absolute penetrance values, allowing ranking of risk effects. Categories of consistent predisposing, intermediate ('neutral'), and protective haplotypes were identified and found to correlate with disease prevalence and the marked ethnic differences in DRB1-DQB1 frequencies. Specific effects were identified, for example for predisposing haplotypes, there was a statistically significant and consistent hierarchy for DR4 DQB1*0302s: DRB1*0405 =*0401 =*0402 > *0404 > *0403, with DRB1*0301 DQB1*0200 (DR3) being significantly less predisposing than DRB1*0402 and more than DRB1*0404. The predisposing DRB1*0401 DQB1*0302 haplotype was relatively increased compared with the protective haplotype DRB1*0401 DQB1*0301 in heterozygotes with DR3 compared with heterozygotes with DRB1*0101 DQB1*0501 (DR1). Our results show that meta-analyses and use of the P/C ratio and rankings thereof can be valuable in determining T1D risk factors at the haplotype and amino acid residue levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Thomson
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-3140, USA.
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Single RM, Meyer D, Mack SJ, Lancaster A, Erlich HA, Thomson G. 14th International HLA and Immunogenetics Workshop: report of progress in methodology, data collection, and analyses. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 69 Suppl 1:185-7. [PMID: 17445197 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0039.2006.00767.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Biostatistics Component of the 13th International Histocompatibility Workshop (IHWS) developed the PyPop (Python for Population Genomics) software framework for high-throughput analysis and quality control (QC) assessments of highly polymorphic genotype data. Since its initial release, the software has had several new analysis modules added to it. These additions, combined with improved data filtering and QC modules, facilitate analyses of data at different levels (allele, haplotype, amino acid sequence, and nucleotide sequence). Since the 13th IHWS, much of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) data from the workshop, QCed via PyPop and other methods, have been made publicly available through the Major Histocompatibility Complex database web site at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (http://ncbi.nih.gov/mhc/). The Anthropology/Human Genetic Diversity component (AHGDC) data have been used in a variety of studies. Prugnolle et al. used this data to corroborate a model of pathogen-driven selection as a factor related to high levels of diversity at HLA loci. Using a comparative genomics approach contrasting results for HLA and non-HLA markers, Meyer et al. analyzed a subset of the 13th IHWS AHGDC data and showed that HLA loci show detectable signs of both natural selection and the demographic history of populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Single
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.
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