The Effects of Integrated Attention Training for Older Chinese Adults With Subjective Cognitive Complaints: A Randomized Controlled Study

2016 ◽  
Vol 37 (10) ◽  
pp. 1195-1214 ◽  
Author(s):  
Calvin Pak-Wing Cheng ◽  
Linda Chiu-Wa Lam ◽  
Sheung-Tak Cheng
Keyword(s):  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Decline ◽  
Training Program ◽  
Cognitive Training ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Public Health Issue ◽  
Attention Training ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Controlled

Objective: Early intervention to reduce cognitive decline and preserve functioning is a compelling public health issue. Because impaired attention occurs early in the process of cognitive impairment, focusing training strategies upon attention may be a potential intervention to prevent further cognitive decline. We sought to test the effects on cognitive performance and daily functioning of a new cognitive training program that focuses on attention. Method: This single-blind randomized controlled trial lasted 6 months and included two phases. Assessments were conducted at baseline, at 3 months, and at 6 months. The study was performed in four community older adult centers. Ninety-three participants with subjective cognitive impairment without dementia were included. Forty-seven participants were randomized to the Integrated Attention Training Program (IATP), and 46 were randomized to the control group. The two arms of the study included the IATP (intervention group) and a health-related education program (active control group). Results: No significant interactions were identified between group and time for the Clinical Dementia Rating–Sum of Boxes and other secondary outcomes, except for the Digit Forward Score ( p < .05; effect size, 0.057). When the preintervention and postintervention results were compared, the IATP group showed significant improvement in grand mean effect ( p < .05) and accuracy ( p < .05) in the Attention Network Test, Digit Backward Score ( p < .05), Category Verbal Fluency Test ( p < .05), and Trail Making Test A ( p < .01) immediately after the intervention. These improvements were sustained 3 months after the intervention. Conclusion: The IATP showed domain-specific effects but had no effects on global cognition or functioning. It could not show a superior benefit in cognition and functioning when compared with non-specific mental stimulation in a group format. Further studies are needed to determine the role of attention in cognitive training.

Investigating the Impact of Cognitive Training for Individuals With Bothersome Tinnitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2021 ◽  
pp. 019459982199474
Author(s):  
Maggie Xing ◽  
Dorina Kallogjeri ◽  
Jay F. Piccirillo
Keyword(s):  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Cognitive Training ◽  
Mixed Model ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Functional Index ◽  
Open Label ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
The Impact

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive training in improving tinnitus bother and to identify predictors of patient response. Study Design Prospective open-label randomized controlled trial. Setting Online. Methods Participants were adults with subjective idiopathic nonpulsatile tinnitus causing significant tinnitus-related distress. The intervention group trained by using auditory-intensive exercises for 20 minutes per day, 5 days per week, for 8 weeks. The active control group trained on the same schedule with non–auditory intensive games. Surveys were completed at baseline, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks. Results A total of 64 participants completed the study. The median age was 63 years (range, 25-69) in the intervention group and 61 years (34-68) in the control group. Mixed model analysis revealed that within-subject change in Tinnitus Functional Index in the intervention group was not different than the control group, with marginal mean differences (95% CI): 0.24 (–11.20 to 10.7) and 2.17 (–8.50 to 12.83) at 8 weeks and 2.33 (–8.6 to 13.3) and 3.36 (–7.91 to 14.6) at 12 weeks, respectively. When the 2 study groups were compared, the control group had higher Tinnitus Functional Index scores than the intervention group by 10.5 points at baseline (95% CI, –0.92 to 29.89), 8.1 at 8 weeks (95% CI, –3.27 to 19.42), and 9.4 at 12 weeks (95% CI, –2.45 to 21.34). Conclusion Auditory-intensive cognitive training was not associated with changes in self-reported tinnitus bother. Given the potential for neuroplasticity to affect tinnitus, we believe that future studies on cognitive training for tinnitus remain relevant.

scholarly journals EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVENESS OF AROGYA KASHAYAM-20 IN COVID-19 CASES - A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED STUDY

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Umesh Shukla ◽  
Nitin Ujjaliya
Keyword(s):  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Care Center ◽  
Large Population ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Rt Pcr ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Group A ◽  
Negative Conversion

Introduction: The characteristic clinical features of Covid-19 disease range between asymptomatic to mild-moderate symptoms. Studies suggest that a large population (80%) presents its asymptomatic or milder form. Remaining 20 percent, owing to severity of the diseases, need hospital-based care. Many treatment protocols and strategies have been promoted and recommended by authorities including WHO, but nothing has actually been finalized till date. The present study was planned to evaluate the effectiveness of an Ayurvedic formulation viz. Arogya Kashayam-20 in the hospitalized cases of Covid-19.Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of Arogya Kashayam-20 in the cases of COVID-19 particularly the negative conversion of RTPCR in 10 days duration.Material and Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial conducted at COVID-19 Care Center, Pt. Khushilal Sharma Government Ayurveda College &amp; Institute, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh with a sample size of 112 participants, aged between 16 to 60 years of either sex. Participants were divided in two groups viz. group A and B. Both the groups received Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), vitamin C and Zinc as per the prevailing ICMR guidelines and group 'A' received additionally Arogya Kashayam-20 for 10 days. Outcome measure of the study was to see the negative conversion RT-PCR test after intervention period of 10 days. CTRI Registration: CTRI/2020/06/026221. Results: Among the 60 cases registered in study group (group A), 51 cases (85.00%) were reported with negative RTPCR on 10th day. Out of 52 cases registered in control group (group B); 39 cases (75.00%) were tested negative RTPCR on 10th day. In both the groups all the cases were discharged asymptomatically on 10th day as per the prevailing ICMR guidelines. No ADR/AE observed during the intervention period.Conclusion: The study observes that the add on intervention group has a better outcome in terms of RT-PCR negative reports after 10 days comparing to the control group.

The Effect of Lullaby Intervention on Anxiety and Prenatal Attachment in Women with High-Risk Pregnancy: A Randomized Controlled Study

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-9
Author(s):  
Nazlı Baltacı ◽  
Mürüvvet Başer
Keyword(s):  
High Risk ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Group Versus ◽  
Mean Difference ◽  
High Risk Pregnancy ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Prenatal Attachment ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Risk Pregnancy

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Women with high-risk pregnancy experience anxiety and low mother-fetal attachment when faced with signs of danger and health problems. This study aimed to investigate the effects of lullaby intervention on anxiety and prenatal attachment in women with high-risk pregnancy. <b><i>Materials and Methods:</i></b> This randomized controlled trial was conducted in the perinatology clinic of a state maternity hospital in Turkey. Seventy-six women with high-risk pregnancy were included. The intervention group listened to lullabies for 20 min once a day, and accompanied by lullabies touched their abdomen and thought about their babies, but the control group did not. Data were collected using the Pregnant Information Form, the State Anxiety Inventory, and the Prenatal Attachment Inventory. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Baseline anxiety did not differ in the intervention versus control group (47.83 ± 10.74 vs. 44.10 ± 8.08, mean difference 3.73 [95% Cl –1.18 to 8.64], <i>p</i> = 0.13), but after the 2nd day lullaby intervention anxiety was lower in the intervention group versus control group (33.66 ± 9.32 vs. 43.06 ± 8.10, mean difference –9.40 [95% Cl –13.91 to –4.88], <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.01). Baseline prenatal attachment did not differ in the intervention versus control group (56.03 ± 10.71 vs. 53.86 ± 9.98, mean difference 2.16 [95% Cl –3.18 to 7.51], <i>p</i> = 0.42), but after the 2nd day lullaby intervention prenatal attachment was higher in the intervention group versus control group (66.70 ± 7.60 vs. 54.36 ± 9.52, mean difference 12.33 [95% Cl 7.87 to 16.78], <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.01). In the within-group analysis the intervention group had lower anxiety and better prenatal attachment (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.01), but not in the control group (<i>p</i> &#x3e; 0.05). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Lullaby intervention can play an effective role in reducing anxiety and improving prenatal attachment. The use of this integrative, noninvasive, non-pharmacologic, time-efficient, and natural intervention is suggested in the care of pregnant women.

scholarly journals Efficacy of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination Training Approach for Training Pharmacy Students in Diabetes Mellitus Counseling: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Pharmacy ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 229
Author(s):  
Imaneh Farahani ◽  
Samieh Farahani ◽  
Maira A. Deters ◽  
Holger Schwender ◽  
Stephanie Laeer
Keyword(s):  
Diabetes Mellitus ◽  
Communication Skills ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Objective Assessment ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Pharmacy Students ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Training Approach

Pharmacists’ tasks are multifaceted and include, for example, vital counseling and communication skills. Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) could be used to train pharmacy students in these skills. Our study sought to determine the efficacy of our OSCE training approach for training pharmacy students’ counseling and communication skills on diabetes mellitus compared to a control group. This randomized controlled study was conducted with pharmacy students using a pre-post-design. The intervention group completed diabetes OSCE training, while the control group solved diabetes patient cases using subjective, objective, assessment, and plan notes. Before and after the respective training, both groups completed OSCEs evaluating counseling and communication skills. Before each OSCE encounter, the participants completed a self-assessment questionnaire and, upon completion of the seminar, filled out a satisfaction survey. The OSCE-trained group demonstrated a significantly greater increase in counseling and communication skills and self-confidence than the control group. Both groups were generally satisfied with the seminar. These results demonstrate that our OSCE training approach allows for the effective training of pharmacy students’ diabetes counseling and communication skills and suggests the inclusion of such a skill-based approach more widely in pharmacy students’ education.

scholarly journals Self-perceived postural balance correlates with postural balance and anxiety during the first year after stroke: a part of the randomized controlled GOTVED study

BMC Neurology ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lena Rafsten ◽  
Anna Danielsson ◽  
Katharina S. Sunnerhagen
Keyword(s):  
Postural Balance ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
First Year ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Self Confidence ◽  
Early Supported Discharge ◽  
Time Point

Abstract Background Postural balance is an important rehabilitation outcome, and screening stroke patients for confidence in postural balance during rehabilitation and before hospital discharge is recommended. Early supported discharge could improve postural balance self-confidence. This study aimed to investigate associations between patient self-confidence in postural balance and observer-assessed postural balance and anxiety during the first year after stroke. Whether very early supported discharge (VESD) affects self-confidence in postural balance compared with standard discharge was also evaluated. Methods A longitudinal trial for with data extracted from a randomized controlled study of 140 adults with confirmed stroke was conducted. The experimental group received VESD. The control group was discharged according to the standard routine. Postural balance was assessed with Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and Falls Efficacy Scale. Anxiety was assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (rho) was used to test associations between independent variables. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to examine differences over time. A single test, according to Eid, Gollwitzer, and Schmidt, was used to test temporal differences in correlation. Results The correlation between self-confidence in postural balance and observer-assessed postural balance was 0.62–0.78 in the first year after stroke. The correlation between self-confidence and anxiety was 0.22–0.41 in the first year after stroke. Correlations did not differ by group affiliation at any time point when the postural balance was assessed with BBS. The intervention group had a significantly higher correlation (r = − 0.709) than the control group (r = − 0.416) when postural balance was assessed with the TUG test 1 month after discharge. There were no significant differences in correlations between confidence in postural balance and anxiety between the two groups at any time point. Conclusions Patients with mild stroke can accurately assess their confidence in performing daily activities without falling. VESD does not substantially affect the correlation between self-confidence in postural balance and observer assessed postural balance and is safe to use as an alternative to standard discharge. Assessment of self-confidence can provide important information for rehabilitation planning and supporting the physical activity of patients after discharge. Trial registration Clinical Trials.gov: NCT01622205. Registered 19 June 2012 (retrospectively registered).

scholarly journals The Effect of a Multicomponent Dual-Task Exercise on Cortical Thickness in Older Adults with Cognitive Decline: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 1312
Author(s):  
Seongryu Bae ◽  
Kenji Harada ◽  
Sangyoon Lee ◽  
Kazuhiro Harada ◽  
Keitaro Makino ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Cognitive Decline ◽  
Cognitive Training ◽  
Cortical Thickness ◽  
Exercise Intervention ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Exercise Group ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Controlled

The aim of this study was to examine cortical thickness changes associated with a multicomponent exercise intervention combining physical exercise and cognitive training in older adults with cognitive decline. This study involved a secondary analysis of neuroimaging data from a randomized controlled trial with 280 older adults having cognitive decline who were randomly assigned to either a multicomponent exercise group (n = 140) that attended weekly 90-minute exercise and cognitive training sessions or a health education control group (n = 140). The cortical thickness and cognitive performance were assessed at the baseline and at trial completion (10 months). The cortical thickness in the frontal and temporal regions was determined using FreeSurfer software. Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Gerontology-Functional Assessment Tool (NCGG-FAT). The cortical thickness significantly increased in the middle temporal (p < 0.001) and temporal pole (p < 0.001) in the multicomponent exercise group compared with the control group. Cortical thickness changes were significantly associated with change in trail making test (TMT)-A, TMT-B, and story memory after a 10-month multicomponent exercise intervention. This study suggests that multicomponent exercise programs combining physical exercise and cognitive training have important implications for brain health, especially in providing protection from age-related cortical thinning.

scholarly journals Primary Care and Physical Literacy: A Non-Randomized Controlled Pilot Study to Combat the High Prevalence of Physically Inactive Adults in Austria

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (16) ◽  
pp. 8593
Author(s):  
Peter Holler ◽  
Johannes Jaunig ◽  
Othmar Moser ◽  
Silvia Tuttner ◽  
Helmut Simi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Pilot Study ◽  
Self Efficacy ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Physical Activity Behavior ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Physical Literacy ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Activity Behavior

The multidimensional concept of physical literacy is fundamental for lifelong physical activity engagement. However, physical literacy-based interventions are in their infancy, especially among adults. Therefore, the purpose of this pilot study was to assess the association of a physical literacy-based intervention with changes in self-reported physical literacy among inactive adults. A non-randomized controlled study (2 × 2 design) was conducted, comparing pre- vs. postintervention. Twenty-eight inactive healthy participants in the intervention group (89% female, 53 ± 10 years) entered a physical literacy-based intervention once weekly for 14 weeks. The non-treated control group consisted of 22 inactive adults (96% female, 50 ± 11 years). Physical literacy was evaluated with a questionnaire encompassing five domains: physical activity behavior, attitude/understanding, motivation, knowledge, and self-efficacy/confidence. ANOVA models were applied to evaluate changes by time and condition. Following the intervention, significant improvements were seen for overall physical literacy and in four out of five physical literacy domains, including physical activity behavior, attitude/understanding, knowledge, and self-efficacy/confidence (all p < 0.01, Cohen’s d = 0.38–0.83). No changes by time x condition were found for motivation. The physical literacy-based intervention applied in this study may be a promising approach to help inactive adults to adopt an active lifestyle.

scholarly journals A Home-Based Individual Cognitive Stimulation Program for Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rosa Silva ◽  
Elzbieta Bobrowicz-Campos ◽  
Paulo Santos-Costa ◽  
Ana Rita Cruz ◽  
João Apóstolo
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Cognitive Stimulation ◽  
Attrition Rate ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Home Based

Objective: This study aims to assess the feasibility and meaningfulness of a home-based individual cognitive stimulation (iCS) program delivered by caregivers to persons with cognitive impairment (PwCIs). It also aims to assess whether the older adults receiving this program improved their cognitive, neuropsychiatric, and depressive symptoms and quality of life and whether their caregivers improved their mental and physical health.Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted with PwCI-caregiver dyads recruited from the community. Participants were allocated to two groups: intervention (n = 28) and control (n = 24). The intervention group received the European Portuguese version of the Individual Cognitive Stimulation Program—Making a Difference 3 (MD3-P). The control group received usual care. The iCS therapy program was implemented three times a week for 12 weeks. Caregivers were supported by the researchers to deliver the sessions at home. Participants were assessed at baseline and at the end of the intervention (week 13). Feasibility and meaningfulness were assessed through the attrition rate, adherence, and degree of satisfaction with the sessions. Four interviews were conducted (after week 13) to understand participants’ experiences.Results: The attrition rate was 23.1%. The dyads reported that they did not have high expectations about the iCS program before starting the study. Nevertheless, as the program evolved, caregivers noted that their family members had improved some areas of functioning. Intention-to-treat analysis based on group differences revealed a significant improvement in PwCIs’ cognition, specifically in their orientation and ability to follow commands. The intervention had no impact on other variables such as caregivers’ physical and mental health.Conclusion: The iCS program implemented by caregivers showed promising results in improving PwCIs’ cognition. The participants who completed the intervention attributed a positive meaning to the MD3-P, confirming it as a valid non-pharmacological therapeutic approach to reducing frailty in PwCIs in community settings.Clinical Trial Registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier [NCT03514095].

The Effect of Doll Therapy on Agitation and Cognitive State in Institutionalized Patients With Moderate-to-Severe Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Study

2020 ◽  
pp. 089198872093335
Author(s):  
Cemile Kütmeç Yilmaz ◽  
Güler Duru Aşiret
Keyword(s):  
Intervention Group ◽  
Cognitive Status ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Cognitive State ◽  
Severe Dementia ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Significant Change ◽  
Institutionalized Patients

This study is aimed at identifying the effect of doll therapy on agitation and cognitive state in institutionalized patients with moderate-to-severe dementia. This randomized controlled experimental study was conducted from April 8, 2019, to October 30, 2019, in a nursing home in Aksaray, Turkey. In total, 29 people with dementia participated in this study, 15 of whom comprised the intervention group. The control group, in which no intervention was made, was composed of the remaining 14 individuals. Data were collected using the introductory information form and the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE) to evaluate cognitive status, and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) to evaluate behavioral disturbances. Patients with dementia in the intervention group received doll therapy for 8 weeks. We found that there was no statistically significant change between fourth- and eighth-week SMMSE scores for either the intervention or control groups ( P > .05), while there was a significant change in the CMAI and NPI scores of the intervention group ( P < .05). This study found that doll therapy was effective in decreasing agitation and behavioral problems in people diagnosed with moderate-to-severe dementia. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov , ID: NCT04120103 Retrospectively registered on 8 April 2019.

Training cosmetology students in Arkansas to help dermatologists find skin cancers earlier: results of a cluster-randomized controlled trial

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lori Fischbach ◽  
Mohammed F Faramawi ◽  
Deborah Girard ◽  
Susan Thapa ◽  
Robin Travers
Keyword(s):  
Skin Cancer ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Controlled Study ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Educational Video ◽  
Sun Safety ◽  
Safety Practices ◽  
Randomized Controlled ◽  
Skin Cancers ◽  
Cluster Randomized

Abstract Background We tested an educational video in cosmetology schools to increase students’ knowledge about skin cancer, sun-safety practices, identifying suspicious lesions and recommending clients consult a dermatologist when a suspicious lesion is observed. Methods We used a cluster-randomized controlled study design to randomize 22 cosmetology schools to receive our educational video or a publicly accessible healthy lifestyle video (control). Results Students who received the intervention were more likely than controls to increase their knowledge of skin cancer, risk factors and how to identify potential skin cancers (risk ratio [RR] and 95% confidence interval = 2.86 [1.58–5.20]). At follow-up, students in the intervention group were more likely than those in the control group to look for suspicious moles on their clients’ faces, scalps and necks (RRs = 1.75, 2.16 and 2.90, respectively). Additionally, students in the intervention group were more likely to communicate with clients about sun-safety practices (RR = 1.74 [1.11–2.73]) and consulting a dermatologist about suspicious moles (RR = 1.57 [1.03–2.41]). Conclusions Our educational video helped cosmetology students recognize potential skin cancers and talk with clients about sun safety and consulting a dermatologist about suspicious moles. Such videos may play a role in the public health surveillance of skin cancers in communities.

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