ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of Aquatic High Intensity Interval Training (AHIIT) on cardiometabolic and physical health markers in women. METHODS: Systematic search used 7 databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane, Embase, CINAL complete, PsycINFO). The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) score was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies. Clinical trials compared AHIIT with a control group that receive no exercise training. We integrated randomized controlled trials published in English, and participants were women aged ≥18 years. The outcome of interest was the change in cardiometabolic and physical health markers. RESULTS: Among 242 articles screened, 18 articles (13 trials) were included in this meta-analysis comparing AHIIT (n = 261) with a control group (n = 215). The median PEDro score was 5.5 out of 10 (range, 4-8). AHIIT significantly improved peak oxygen uptake (Hedges' g 0.610; 95% CI 0.277-0.943; P < 0.001), reduced resting heart rate (Hedges' g -0.495; 95% CI -0.866 to -0.124; P < 0.05), as well as chair to stand test. (Hedges' g 0.548; 95% CI 0.019 to 1.077; P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: AHIIT has a moderate effect in improving cardiometabolic and physical health markers in women.
ABSTRACT
The Visual Field (VF) principle has been found to apply in many situations, but has not been tested under many possible conditions of operator posture with different display and control locations. In this research we used four display locations, four control locations relative to a seated operator and tested the strength of population stereotype for six different types of controls with linear displays moving either horizontally or vertically and circular displays with a neutral indicator at the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o'clock positions. Apart from several minor differences in operator responses, the VF principle held up well under all these different display/control relationships. By designing the display/control arrangement to have high stereotype strength, the direction of control movement for a given direction of indicator movement can be selected to comply with the VF principle for producing fewest errors in movement direction.
Subject(s)
Data Display , Equipment Design/psychology , Man-Machine Systems , Stereotyped Behavior , Visual Fields , Computer Terminals , Equipment Design/methods , Female , Humans , Male , Movement , Posture , Reaction Time , Young AdultABSTRACT
In the context of a fast aging population, ubiquitous usage of smart wearable systems can alleviate the social burden caused by the increasing need of older adults for healthcare and assistance. To facilitate and encourage the use of smart wearable systems among older adults, this study investigated the factors that contribute to the acceptance of such systems, and smart wearables acceptance model for older adults was developed using structural equation modeling. The model was validated using 146 survey samples collected from adults aged 60 years and above. The results indicated that perceived usefulness, compatibility, facilitating conditions, and self-reported health status significantly and positively affect older adults' intention to use such technologies. Useful implications and insights were provided to future researchers and practitioners to enhance older adults' acceptance of smart wearable systems.
Subject(s)
Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology , Wearable Electronic Devices/psychology , Aged , Cross-Sectional Studies , Diagnostic Self Evaluation , Female , Health Status , Humans , Intention , Latent Class Analysis , Male , Middle Aged , Surveys and QuestionnairesABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether requests for standard paediatric electroencephalograms accord with guideline recommendations, subsequent changes in clinical management according to reported results, and extent to which the service meets waiting time targets. DESIGN: Case series. SETTING: Regional hospital, Hong Kong. PATIENTS: All patients aged less than 18 years who underwent electroencephalography between December 2009 and February 2010. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Appropriateness of the electroencephalogram request and the impact of its findings on clinical management. RESULTS: A total of 109 patients were recruited, but requests for standard electroencephalograms were considered 'inappropriate' with respect to guidelines in 44% of the patients, of which 50% were made to diagnose 'funny turns'. The standard electroencephalogram contributed to the diagnosis or management in only 28% of patients. In all of the latter, the request for an electroencephalogram had been appropriate. Nonspecialists made referrals for 86% of the patients. Inadequate information was provided in 66% of the requests. Standard electroencephalograms were performed within guideline targets, the wait being less than 4 weeks in 95% of requests. CONCLUSION: An effective electroencephalogram service was being provided, though abuses were common. These were mainly because of misconceptions regarding the role and limitations of standard electroencephalograms. Through an educative, non-confrontational approach, and with time to explain guideline recommendations to clinicians, sustainable change in practice could be achieved so as to benefit patients, clinicians, and service provision.
