Are multi-cat homes more stressful? A critical review of the evidence associated with cat group size and wellbeing

Objectives The primary objective of this review was to conduct a systematic critical appraisal of published literature, in order to assess the evidence regarding the impact of cat group size on cat wellbeing in the domestic home. The secondary objectives were to: (i) identify additional social and environmental mediators of cat wellbeing in these contexts; and (ii) identify general limitations within the current evidence and provide recommendations for future studies. Methods A systematic search of electronic databases (Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar) was conducted using targeted Boolean phrasing. Papers were retained for appraisal of full text where they included a comparison of both single (n = 1) and multi-cat (n ⩾2) domestic housing conditions and/or comparison of different multi-cat group sizes, within a single study; or where they compared outcome measures that were either behavioural and/or physiological and deemed as relevant indicators of cat wellbeing. Results A total of 1334 unique papers were returned, 15 of which were retained. Of these papers, only four stated their primary aim to be an investigation of links between cat group size and cat wellbeing. Overall, the reviewed papers did not indicate consistent directions of effects regarding cat group size and outcome measures relevant to wellbeing. This was similar for the other social and environmental mediators identified. Conclusions and relevance Inconsistency in results is likely due to the substantial methodological variation, limitations in measures used as indicators of wellbeing and limitations in general study designs and reporting. Results also highlight the complex, multifactorial relationships between cat wellbeing and various social and environmental factors. These may be as, if not more, important than absolute numbers of cats residing within a household. Due to the various limitations and general paucity of research, further studies are recommended to provide a suitable evidence base regarding impacts of multi-cat living on cat wellbeing in domestic environments.

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Polyphenols and Cognition In Humans: An Overview of Current Evidence from Recent Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses

Brain Plasticity ◽

10.3233/bpl-200111 ◽

2020 ◽

pp. 1-15

Author(s):

Daniel Joseph Lamport ◽

Claire Michelle Williams

Keyword(s):

Systematic Reviews ◽

Evidence Base ◽

Epidemiological Studies ◽

Cognitive Outcome ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Duration Of Treatment ◽

Current Evidence Base ◽

Cognitive Benefits ◽

Meta Analyses ◽

The Impact

There is increasing interest in the impact of dietary influences on the brain throughout the lifespan, ranging from improving cognitive development in children through to attenuating ageing related cognitive decline and reducing risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Polyphenols, phytochemicals naturally present in a host of fruits, vegetables, tea, cocoa and other foods, have received particular attention in this regard, and there is now a substantial body of evidence from experimental and epidemiological studies examining whether their consumption is associated with cognitive benefits. The purpose of this overview is to synthesise and evaluate the best available evidence from two sources, namely meta-analyses and systematic reviews, in order to give an accurate reflection of the current evidence base for an association between polyphenols and cognitive benefits. Four meta-analyses and thirteen systematic reviews published between 2017–2020 were included, and were categorised according to whether they reviewed specific polyphenol-rich foods and classes or all polyphenols. A requirement for inclusion was assessment of a behavioural cognitive outcome in humans. A clear and consistent theme emerged that whilst there is support for an association between polyphenol consumption and cognitive benefits, this conclusion is tentative, and by no means definitive. Considerable methodological heterogeneity was repeatedly highlighted as problematic such that the current evidence base does not support reliable conclusions relating to efficacy of specific doses, duration of treatment, or sensitivity in specific populations or certain cognitive domains. The complexity of multiple interactions between a range of direct and indirect mechanisms of action is discussed. Further research is required to strengthen the reliability of the evidence base.

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Delirium and other neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19 infection in people with preexisting psychiatric disorders: a systematic review

Journal of Medical Case Reports ◽

10.1186/s13256-021-03140-6 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 15 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Emma A. van Reekum ◽

Tea Rosic ◽

Anjali Sergeant ◽

Nitika Sanger ◽

Myanca Rodrigues ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Psychiatric Disorders ◽

Alcohol Use Disorder ◽

Case Reports ◽

Primary Objective ◽

Psychiatric History ◽

Increase Risk ◽

Neuropsychiatric Manifestations ◽

Poor Outcomes ◽

Study Designs ◽

The Impact

Abstract Background Psychiatric disorders increase risk of neuropsychiatric disease and poor outcomes, yet little is known about the neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19 in the psychiatric population. The primary objective is to synthesize neuropsychiatric outcomes of COVID-19 in people with preexisting psychiatric disorders. Methods Data were collected during an ongoing review of the impact of pandemics on people with existing psychiatric disorders. All study designs and gray literature were included. Medline, PsychInfo, CINAHL, EMBASE, and MedRx were searched from inception to September 1 2020. Risk of bias was assessed using a published tool that can accommodate all study types. Two independent authors screened the studies and extracted data. Data were narratively synthesized, as there were insufficient data to meta-analyze. Evidence was appraised according to GRADE. Results Four case reports were included, comprising 13 participants from three countries. Many large-sample, relevant papers were omitted for not reporting psychiatric history, despite reporting other comorbidities. Included participants (n = 13) were hospitalized with COVID-19 and appeared to meet criteria for delirium. Myoclonus, rigidity, and alogia were also reported. The most commonly reported preexisting psychiatric diagnoses were mood disorders, schizophrenia, and alcohol use disorder. Conclusions People with preexisting psychiatric disorders may experience delirium, rigidity, myoclonus, and alogia during COVID-19 infection; although higher quality and longitudinal data are needed to better understand these phenomena. Relevant COVID-19 literature does not always report psychiatric history, despite heightened neuropsychiatric vulnerability within this population. Trial Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42020179611).

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Abstract 4450: Does the Evidence Support Guideline Recommendations for Clopidogrel Pretreatment?

Circulation ◽

10.1161/circ.118.suppl_18.s_891 ◽

2008 ◽

Vol 118 (suppl_18) ◽

Author(s):

Shervin Eshaghian ◽

Stanley Chou ◽

Jayanta Das ◽

George A Diamond ◽

Prediman K Shah ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Major Bleeding ◽

Time Course ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Bleeding Risk ◽

Evidence Base ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Optimal Timing ◽

Significant Heterogeneity ◽

Current Evidence Base ◽

The Impact

Although few concrete data exist about the optimal timing and dose of clopidogrel pretreatment, the ACC/AHA & ESC guidelines endorse pretreatment with 300 – 600 mg of clopidogrel at least 2– 6 hours before PCI as Class IA (ACS) and Class IC (elective PCI) recommendation. To evaluate the current evidence base in support for clopidogrel pretreat-ment. Five trials examining the impact of clopidogrel pretreatment in stable and unstable CAD were evaluated: PCI-CURE, PCI-CLARITY, CREDO, PRAGUE-8, ARMYDA-5. Because of substantial clinical heterogeneity in trial design and population, concomitant therapies (glycoprotein 2b/3a inhibitors, thrombolysis, etc), loading dose, pretreatment duration and analysis plan between PCI-CURE, PCI-CLARITY and the rest, a formal meta-analysis was confined only to CREDO, PRAGUE-8, ARMYDA-5. The key data are summarized in the Table . Clopidogrel pretreatment was associated with significant reduction in ischemic outcomes without a significant increase in major bleeding in two out of the 5 trials (PCI-CURE and PCI-CLARITY). Both these trials utilized nonrandomized subgroup comparisons with pretreatment duration longer than that typically encountered in clinical practice (<48h). A meta-analysis of the 3 trials demonstrated a nonsignificant 23% odds reduction in efficacy (P=0.1) and a nonsignificant 29% odds increase in major bleeding (P=0.24). No significant heterogeneity was observed for pooled efficacy (P=0.79) or bleeding (P=0.77) outcomes. Pretreatment hypothesis is currently not validated in rigorous prospective assessments, thereby calling into question the Class I recommendation (benefit >>>risk) endorsed by the guidelines. Clearly, further clinical data regarding dose, time course of pretreatment and associated benefit are warranted to provide unequivocal support. Until then, it is prudent to rule out surgical CAD before pretreatment to avoid bleeding risk. Trials Assessing Clopidogrel Pretreatment

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Approaches to Measuring the Impact of Music Therapy and Music Activities on People Living With Dementia

Music and Dementia ◽

10.1093/oso/9780190075934.003.0009 ◽

2019 ◽

pp. 171-196

Author(s):

Becky Dowson ◽

Orii McDermott

Keyword(s):

Music Therapy ◽

Outcome Measures ◽

Quantitative Research ◽

Psychological Symptoms ◽

Real Life ◽

Evidence Base ◽

People With Dementia ◽

The Impact ◽

Music Activities

This chapter provides an introduction to the evaluation of music activities and music therapy for people with dementia. We outline some of the main challenges and considerations involved in choosing or using outcome measures. An overview of common outcome measures used in current research, including those for behavioral and psychological symptoms, quality of life, physiological changes, cognitive function, and music-related behaviors, is provided. Two music-therapy case studies are presented as real-life examples of how to select clinically relevant measures. Clinicians have long argued that some clinically meaningful changes may not always be measurable. We propose that when insights obtained from high-quality qualitative and mixed methods studies are added to the evidence base of quantitative research, it will lead to a deeper understanding of the benefits that music can have in the lives of people living with dementia.

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Achieving Optimal Population Cardiovascular Health Requires an Interdisciplinary Team and a Learning Healthcare System: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Circulation ◽

10.1161/cir.0000000000000913 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Randi E. Foraker ◽

Catherine P. Benziger ◽

Bailey M. DeBarmore ◽

Crystal W. Cené ◽

Fleetwood Loustalot ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Healthcare System ◽

Cardiovascular Health ◽

Interdisciplinary Team ◽

Heart Association ◽

Evidence Base ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Team Approach ◽

Learning Healthcare System ◽

Scientific Statement ◽

The Impact

Population cardiovascular health, or improving cardiovascular health among patients and the population at large, requires a redoubling of primordial and primary prevention efforts as declines in cardiovascular disease mortality have decelerated over the past decade. Great potential exists for healthcare systems–based approaches to aid in reversing these trends. A learning healthcare system, in which population cardiovascular health metrics are measured, evaluated, intervened on, and re-evaluated, can serve as a model for developing the evidence base for developing, deploying, and disseminating interventions. This scientific statement on optimizing population cardiovascular health summarizes the current evidence for such an approach; reviews contemporary sources for relevant performance and clinical metrics; highlights the role of implementation science strategies; and advocates for an interdisciplinary team approach to enhance the impact of this work.

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A systematic scoping review of psychological therapies for psychosis within acute psychiatric in-patient settings

The British Journal of Psychiatry ◽

10.1192/bjp.2018.106 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 213 (2) ◽

pp. 490-497 ◽

Cited By ~ 10

Author(s):

Pamela Jacobsen ◽

Kathleen Hodkinson ◽

Emmanuelle Peters ◽

Paul Chadwick

Keyword(s):

Outcome Measures ◽

Scoping Review ◽

Psychotic Disorders ◽

Evidence Base ◽

Allocation Concealment ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Psychological Therapies ◽

Affective Symptoms ◽

Wide Range ◽

Current Evidence Base

BackgroundPeople with psychotic disorders account for most acute admissions to psychiatric wards. Psychological therapies are a treatment adjunct to standard medication and nursing care, but the evidence base for such therapies within in-patient settings is unclear.AimsTo conduct a systematic scoping review of the current evidence base for psychological therapies for psychosis delivered within acute in-patient settings (PROSPERO: CRD42015025623).MethodAll study designs, and therapy models, were eligible for inclusion in the review. We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, EThOS, ProQuest, conference abstracts and trial registries.ResultsWe found 65 studies that met criteria for inclusion in the review, 21 of which were randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The majority of studies evaluated cognitive–behavioural interventions. Quality was variable across all study types. The RCTs were mostly small (n<25 in the treatment arm), and many had methodological limitations including poorly described randomisation methods, inadequate allocation concealment and non-masked outcome assessments. We found studies used a wide range of different outcome measures, and relatively few studies reported affective symptoms or recovery-based outcomes. Many studies described adaptations to treatment delivery within in-patient settings, including increased frequency of sessions, briefer interventions and use of single-session formats.ConclusionsBased on these findings, there is a clear need to improve methodological rigour within in-patient research. Interpretation of the current evidence base is challenging given the wide range of different therapies, outcome measures and models of delivery described in the literature.Declaration of interestNone.

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The berry health tool chest – an evidence map and interactive resource

Nutrition Reviews ◽

10.1093/nutrit/nuab011 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Kristine L Kay ◽

Renee C Strauch ◽

Cheryl D Granillo ◽

Megan W Bame ◽

Jia Xiong ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Search Strategy ◽

Design Parameters ◽

Research Gaps ◽

Evidence Map ◽

Future Studies ◽

Critical Knowledge ◽

Nutritional Health ◽

Health Initiatives ◽

Study Designs ◽

The Impact

Abstract Berry consumption is linked to diverse health benefits, but numerous questions remain regarding mechanism of action, dose efficacy, and optimal duration and frequency of intake. Addressing these outstanding questions requires an organized assessment of current research, to inform future study designs and fill critical knowledge gaps. Tools that organize such information will also facilitate consumer messaging, targeted nutritional health initiatives, and dietary intake guidelines. This review aimed to describe the development and utility of the “Berry Health Tool Chest,” an evidence map summarizing trial design features of studies characterizing the impact of berry consumption upon human health biomarkers. A systematic search strategy identified relevant high-quality human feeding studies, whose study design parameters were collected and compiled into an evidence map that is freely available as an interactive online interface enabling tabulated data to be interrogated, filtered, and exported. Of the 231 included studies, approximately 70% were of less than 3 months’ duration and/or fewer than 50 participants, illustrating research gaps that could potentially inform the design of future studies.

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Protocol for a Systematic Review of Gamified Attention Bias Interventions for Psychiatric Disorders (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.10154 ◽

2018 ◽

Author(s):

Zhang Melvyn ◽

Jiangbo Ying ◽

Roger CM Ho

Keyword(s):

Systematic Review ◽

Psychiatric Disorders ◽

Attention Bias ◽

Evidence Base ◽

Primary Objective ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Qualitative Synthesis ◽

Attention Bias Modification ◽

Technological Advances ◽

Bias Modification

UNSTRUCTURED Background Attention biases are subconscious processes that tend to result in individuals having increased attention for threatening or stimuli with high salience. These biases have been posited to be involved in the psychopathologies of several psychiatric disorders. Technological advances have transformed how such interventions are being delivered. Gamification technologies are increasingly being used for bias modification, as it could help increase motivation to train and make these tasks more engaging. While there are published research on gamification and attention bias, there remains several gaps in knowledge. Objectives The primary objective of the review is thus to identify attention bias modification games that have been published in the literature and to synthesise the current evidence for such interventions and to identify, if possible, the rationale for gamification. The secondary objective is to determine if gamified attention or cognitive bias modification influences secondary outcomes measures, as such anxiety levels or severity of depressive symptoms. Methods To achieve the objective of this review, a systematic review will be undertaken. For the studies that are identified, they will be reviewed by independent assessors and screened against our predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Cochrane risk of bias tool will be used for assessment of the risk of biases in randomised trials that have been identified. The evidence will be synthesized by means of a qualitative synthesis. Results We expect that the review will be completed 12 months from the publication of this protocol. Conclusions This review is pertinent as it helps to provide an overview of the evidence base for gamified attention bias interventions. The findings from the current review will help in the future conceptualisation of gamified attention bias interventions.

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A Systematic Review of the Cardiometabolic Benefits of Plant Products Containing Mixed Phenolics and Polyphenols in Postmenopausal Women: Insufficient Evidence for Recommendations to This Specific Population

Nutrients ◽

10.3390/nu13124276 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 13 (12) ◽

pp. 4276

Author(s):

Lorena Sánchez-Martínez ◽

María-Jesús Periago ◽

Javier García-Alonso ◽

María-Teresa García-Conesa ◽

Rocío González-Barrio

Keyword(s):

Postmenopausal Women ◽

Type Ii Diabetes Mellitus ◽

Current Evidence ◽

Dietary Recommendations ◽

Level Of Evidence ◽

Plant Products ◽

Increased Risk ◽

Study Designs ◽

The Impact

Menopause is characterized by endocrine and physiological changes and is often accompanied by increased body weight and cholesterol, glucose intolerance, and/or hypertension. These alterations are associated with increased risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) that may be moderate by dietary plant phenolic compounds. In this review, we examine the current evidence of the impact of a variety of plant products (foods, extracts, beverages) rich in a mixture of phenolics and polyphenols on: (i) glucose and insulin levels; (ii) lipid profile; (iii) blood pressure; and (iv) biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in postmenopausal women. We critically evaluate both the results of a range of intervention studies conducted in this specific subpopulation and the level of evidence supporting the benefits of consuming those products after the menopause. Overall, the current available evidence does not allow for specific dietary recommendations of these plant products rich in phenolics and polyphenols in this high-risk subpopulation. Our data show rather variable and small effects of the different products examined on the cardiometabolic biomarkers and further support the need to: (1) improve the quality of the study designs and data reporting; and (2) understand the variability in the response of the different biomarkers and establish clear differences between healthy and cardiometabolic disease levels.

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What is the impact of introducing inpatient electronic prescribing on prescribing errors? A naturalistic stepped wedge study in an English teaching hospital

Health Informatics Journal ◽

10.1177/1460458219833112 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 26 (4) ◽

pp. 3152-3162 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Bryony Dean Franklin ◽

Seetal Puaar

Keyword(s):

Logistic Regression ◽

Study Design ◽

Teaching Hospital ◽

Electronic Prescribing ◽

Prescribing Errors ◽

Stepped Wedge ◽

Future Studies ◽

Before And After ◽

Study Designs ◽

The Impact

Most studies evaluating the impact of electronic prescribing on prescribing safety have used comparatively weak study designs such as uncontrolled before-and-after studies. This study aimed to apply a more robust naturalistic stepped wedge study design to compare the prevalence and types of prescribing errors for electronic prescribing and paper prescribing. Data were collected weekly during a phased electronic prescribing implementation across 20 wards in a large English hospital. We identified 511 (7.8%) erroneous orders in 6523 paper medication orders, and 312 (6.0%) in 5237 electronic prescribing orders. Logistic regression suggested no statistically significant effect of electronic prescribing use or of study week; patient and ward had significant effects. Errors involving incorrect doses and illegible or incomplete orders were less common with electronic prescribing; those involving duplication, omission, incorrect drug and incorrect formulation were more common. Actions are needed to mitigate these error types; future studies should give more consideration to the effects of patient and ward.

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