Education of staff--a key factor for a safe environment in day care.

PubMed

Sellström, E; Bremberg, S

2000-05-01

In order to create a safe environment in day-care settings, an understanding of factors within the organization of day care, factors which influence safety, is essential. Day-care directors in 83 daycare centres completed a mail-in survey that contained questions about professional experience, the day-care centre's organization of child safety measures and a battery of questions designed to evaluate the directors' perceptions and beliefs about child safety. The day-care directors also carried out a safety inspection at their centre. The results were analysed using the multivariate logistic regression technique. The existence of a continuing plan for continued staff education in child safety was shown to be the strongest predictor of few safety hazards in day-care centres. The day-care directors' perceptions and beliefs about injury prevention were of less importance. This study indicates that in order to promote safety in day-care settings, an on-going plan for continued staff education in child safety should be a matter of routine. The introduction of such a plan should be the concern of the individual day-care directors, policy-makers and managers at the local and national level, and health professionals working in this field.

Parent Child Incorporated Provides 15 Years of Service to Children and Families.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saulter, Mae F.

1995-01-01

Provides an overview of the programs and activities of Parent Child Incorporated (PCI), a human services agency in San Antonio, Texas. PCI oversees or administers various Head Start, nutrition, family day-care, child-care, health, parenting, and adult education programs. (MDM)

Pedagogical Professionalism and Gender in Daycare

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Timmerman, Greetje; Schreuder, Pauline

2008-01-01

In the Netherlands, moral panic about boys' education and behavioural problems has led to public concern about the almost exclusively female environment in which young boys in daycare find themselves. Female daycare workers are attacked for creating a feminized culture in daycare centres. In this article we explore the extent to which these media…

The impact of daycare attendance on outdoor free play in young children.

PubMed

Carsley, S; Liang, L Y; Chen, Y; Parkin, P; Maguire, J; Birken, C S

2017-03-01

Outdoor free play is important for healthy growth and development in early childhood. Recent studies suggest that the majority of time spent in daycare is sedentary. The objective of this study was to determine whether there was an association between daycare attendance and parent-reported outdoor free play. Healthy children aged 1-5 years recruited to The Applied Research Group for Kids! (TARGet Kids!), a primary care research network, were included. Parents reported daycare use, outdoor free play and potential confounding variables. Multivariable linear regression was used to determine the association between daycare attendance and outdoor free play, adjusted for age, sex, maternal ethnicity, maternal education, neighborhood income and season. There were 2810 children included in this study. Children aged 1 to <3 years (n = 1388) and ≥3 to 5 years (n = 1284) who attended daycare had 14.70 min less (95% CI -20.52, -8.87; P < 0.01) and 9.44 min less (95% CI -13.67, -5.20; P < 0.01) per day of outdoor free play compared with children who did not attend daycare, respectively. Children who spend more time in daycare have less parent-reported outdoor free play. Parents may be relying on daycare to provide opportunity for outdoor free play and interventions to promote increased active play opportunities outside of daycare are needed. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Faculty of Public Health. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Involvement of people with dementia in making decisions about their lives: a qualitative study that appraises shared decision-making concerning daycare

PubMed Central

Groen-van de Ven, Leontine; Smits, Carolien; de Graaff, Fuusje; Span, Marijke; Eefsting, Jan; Jukema, Jan; Vernooij-Dassen, Myrra

2017-01-01

Objective To explore how people with dementia, their informal caregivers and their professionals participate in decision making about daycare and to develop a typology of participation trajectories. Design A qualitative study with a prospective, multiperspective design, based on 244 semistructured interviews, conducted during three interview rounds over the course of a year. Analysis was by means of content analysis and typology construction. Setting Community settings and nursing homes in the Netherlands. Participants 19 people with dementia, 36 of their informal caregivers and 38 of their professionals (including nurses, daycare employees and case managers). Results The participants’ responses related to three critical points in the decision-making trajectory about daycare: (1) the initial positive or negative expectations of daycare; (2) negotiation about trying out daycare by promoting, resisting or attuning to others; and (3) trying daycare, which resulted in positive or negative reactions from people with dementia and led to a decision. The ways in which care networks proceeded through these three critical points resulted in a typology of participation trajectories, including (1) working together positively toward daycare, (2) bringing conflicting perspectives together toward trying daycare and (3) not reaching commitment to try daycare. Conclusion Shared decision making with people with dementia is possible and requires and adapted process of decision making. Our results show that initial preferences based on information alone may change when people with dementia experience daycare. It is important to have a try-out period so that people with dementia can experience daycare without having to decide whether to continue it. Whereas shared decision making in general aims at moving from initial preferences to informed preferences, professionals should focus more on moving from initial preferences to experienced preferences for people with dementia. Professionals can play a crucial role in facilitating the possibilities for a try-out period. PMID:29133329

Do Welfare States Raise Welfare(d) Kids? Day-Care Institutions and Inequality in the Danish Welfare State

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ringsmose, Charlotte; Winther-Lindqvist, Ditte Alexandra; Allerup, Peter

2014-01-01

There is an increasing focus on early-childhood education quality globally, reflecting a growing political awareness that education starts earlier than primary school, and that high quality in day-care influence children's learning and development. In Denmark, almost all children attend day-care, and day-care institutions are considered part of…

Growth and Nutritional Status of Migrant Farmworker Preschool Children: Are the Programs Working?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCracken, Robert D.

1978-01-01

Data on height, weight, and head circumference collected from 904 preschool-aged children of Mexican American farmworkers, enrolled in a Headstart/Daycare program in Colorado, revealed significant clusterings of children in the lower percentiles on all measures of growth at all ages above six months. (NQ)

3 N.J. Community Colleges Set Up New Programs as Part of State's Plans for Welfare Reform.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaschik, Scott

1987-01-01

Bergen Community College, Middlesex County College, and Union County College are setting up (1) counseling programs to help welfare recipients determine their job interests and skills, (2) job-training courses, and (3) day-care centers for participants children. (MLW)

Enhancing Cultural Adaptation through Friendship Training: A Single-Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Yi-Ching; Baker, Stanley B.

1993-01-01

Four-year-old girl from mainland China experienced culture shock when attending American university day-care center. Counseling intern from Taiwan designed friendship training program based on assumptions concerning adaptation, acculturation, and peer relationships. Evaluated as intensive single-case study, findings indicated the program may be…

Involvement of people with dementia in making decisions about their lives: a qualitative study that appraises shared decision-making concerning daycare.

PubMed

Groen-van de Ven, Leontine; Smits, Carolien; de Graaff, Fuusje; Span, Marijke; Eefsting, Jan; Jukema, Jan; Vernooij-Dassen, Myrra

2017-11-12

To explore how people with dementia, their informal caregivers and their professionals participate in decision making about daycare and to develop a typology of participation trajectories. A qualitative study with a prospective, multiperspective design, based on 244 semistructured interviews, conducted during three interview rounds over the course of a year. Analysis was by means of content analysis and typology construction. Community settings and nursing homes in the Netherlands. 19 people with dementia, 36 of their informal caregivers and 38 of their professionals (including nurses, daycare employees and case managers). The participants' responses related to three critical points in the decision-making trajectory about daycare: (1) the initial positive or negative expectations of daycare; (2) negotiation about trying out daycare by promoting, resisting or attuning to others; and (3) trying daycare, which resulted in positive or negative reactions from people with dementia and led to a decision. The ways in which care networks proceeded through these three critical points resulted in a typology of participation trajectories, including (1) working together positively toward daycare, (2) bringing conflicting perspectives together toward trying daycare and (3) not reaching commitment to try daycare. Shared decision making with people with dementia is possible and requires and adapted process of decision making. Our results show that initial preferences based on information alone may change when people with dementia experience daycare. It is important to have a try-out period so that people with dementia can experience daycare without having to decide whether to continue it. Whereas shared decision making in general aims at moving from initial preferences to informed preferences, professionals should focus more on moving from initial preferences to experienced preferences for people with dementia. Professionals can play a crucial role in facilitating the possibilities for a try-out period. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Effects of Monetary Incentives on Engagement in the PACE Parenting Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dumas, Jean E.; Begle, Angela Moreland; French, Brian; Pearl, Amanda

2010-01-01

This study evaluated parental engagement in an 8-week parenting program offered through daycare centers that were randomly assigned to a monetary incentive or nonincentive condition. Of an initial sample of 1,050 parents who rated their intent to enroll in the program, 610 went on to enroll--319 in the incentive and 291 in the nonincentive…

Nurses' perceptions and experiences at daycare for elderly with stroke.

PubMed

Park, Yeon-Hwan; Han, Hae-Ra

2010-09-01

While adult daycare (ADC) is considered a culturally acceptable model of long-term care in countries with a tradition of family-oriented caregiving, Korea is struggling as soaring needs for ADC outpace qualified staff and regulatory systems. This study aimed to describe Korean daycare nurses' perceptions of key daycare services and their working experiences with stroke patients and their families. A mixed-method design was used. First, we conducted a cross-sectional descriptive survey to assess Korean nurses' perceptions about the importance of daycare services. Then focus group interviews were performed to explore the nurses' experiences at ADC. Seventy of a total of 96 nurses at ADC that specialized in the care of stroke patients responded to the survey (response rate 72.9%) and rated the importance of 11 key daycare service items on a visual analogue scale (0-10). Using a purposive sampling design, 16 eligible nurses were interviewed as a group. The qualitative data from focus group interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to classify common themes into larger categories. Survey data revealed that the nurses perceived "skilled nursing services,"functional recovery," and "general health counseling" as the most important daycare service areas. Focus group data resulted in five themes: "Providing the same, standard care,"Lack of partnership with family caregivers,"Conflict with other staff: ambiguity of the roles and tasks,"Lack of proper education and training," and "Need for quality control and monitoring." Daycare nurses fully recognized the importance of direct nursing care services that are keys to adequate recovery and rehabilitation of older patients with stroke. However, they experienced substantial barriers to carrying out these services due to role confusion, insufficient number of qualified nursing staff, and lack of partnership with family caregivers. The results provide insight into changing healthcare policy to support daycare nurses in a country with limited resources and regulations. Strategies such as better quality control and monitoring of daycare services, provision of continuing education, and prioritizing key services should be considered as a way to address challenges experienced by daycare nurses.

[Influence of inclusive child day-care on nursery school teachers: a questionnaire survey of teachers with experience in inclusive child day-care in K City].

PubMed

Kawachi, Shinobu; Fukuzawa, Yukiko; Hamada, Yuuko

2006-09-01

The purpose of this survey questionnaire is to investigate the factors influencing how nursery school teachers perceive inclusive child day-care in K City in order to qualify what support we can provide. The questionnaire was sent to nursery school teachers with experience in inclusive child day-care in K City. Three hundred seventeen teachers provided sufficient data for analysis. The results of this survey suggest that teachers perceive inclusive child day-care to lead up to self-development and the pleasure of child-caring. On the other hand, they feel a burden of inclusive child day-care, with teachers in their 40 s feeling a stronger burden than teachers in their 20 s. And teachers with experience in taking care of emotionally disturbed children or teachers with experience in taking care of hearing-impaired children feel a stronger burden than teachers without experience in taking care of them. The results of our survey also suggest that it is necessary for support systems to have special knowledge about disabled children and special ways of caring, and to decrease teachers' burden or dissatisfaction with inclusive child day-care.

Cost-Effectiveness of Childcare Discounts on Parent Participation in Preventive Parent Training in Low-Income Communities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gross, Deborah; Johnson, Tricia; Ridge, Alison; Garvey, Christine; Julion, Wrenetha; Treysman, Anne Brusius; Breitenstein, Susan; Fogg, Louis

2011-01-01

We tested the cost-effectiveness of giving low-income parents childcare discounts contingent on their participation in the Chicago Parent Program, a 12-session preventive parent training (PT) program offered at their child's daycare center. Eight centers were matched and randomized to an experimental condition in which parents received a discount…

Physical Activity at Daycare: Issues, Challenges and Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van Zandvoort, Melissa; Tucker, Patricia; Irwin, Jennifer D.; Burke, Shauna M.

2010-01-01

This study sought to examine London, Ontario-based childcare providers' perspectives of the barriers and facilitators to physical activity participation among preschoolers (i.e. children aged 2.5-5 years) attending daycare. A heterogeneous sample of childcare providers (n = 54; response rate 47%) working at public daycare facilities in London,…

Seasonal Dynamics of the Airborne Bacterial Community and Selected Viruses in a Children's Daycare Center.

PubMed

Prussin, Aaron J; Vikram, Amit; Bibby, Kyle J; Marr, Linsey C

2016-01-01

Children's daycare centers appear to be hubs of respiratory infectious disease transmission, yet there is only limited information about the airborne microbial communities that are present in daycare centers. We have investigated the microbial community of the air in a daycare center, including seasonal dynamics in the bacterial community and the presence of specific viral pathogens. We collected filters from the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of a daycare center every two weeks over the course of a year. Amplifying and sequencing the 16S rRNA gene revealed that the air was dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes that are commonly associated with the human skin flora. Clear seasonal differences in the microbial community were not evident; however, the community structure differed when the daycare center was closed and unoccupied for a 13-day period. These results suggest that human occupancy, rather than the environment, is the major driver in shaping the microbial community structure in the air of the daycare center. Using PCR for targeted viruses, we detected a seasonal pattern in the presence of respiratory syncytial virus that included the period of typical occurrence of the disease related to the virus; however, we did not detect the presence of adenovirus or rotavirus at any time.

Creation of a Collaborative Disaster Preparedness Video for Daycare Providers: Use of the Delphi Model for the Creation of a Comprehensive Disaster Preparedness Video for Daycare Providers.

PubMed

Mar, Pamela; Spears, Robert; Reeb, Jeffrey; Thompson, Sarah B; Myers, Paul; Burke, Rita V

2018-02-22

Eight million American children under the age of 5 attend daycare and more than another 50 million American children are in school or daycare settings. Emergency planning requirements for daycare licensing vary by state. Expert opinions were used to create a disaster preparedness video designed for daycare providers to cover a broad spectrum of scenarios. Various stakeholders (17) devised the outline for an educational pre-disaster video for child daycare providers using the Delphi technique. Fleiss κ values were obtained for consensus data. A 20-minute video was created, addressing the physical, psychological, and legal needs of children during and after a disaster. Viewers completed an anonymous survey to evaluate topic comprehension. A consensus was attempted on all topics, ranging from elements for inclusion to presentation format. The Fleiss κ value of 0.07 was obtained. Fifty-seven of the total 168 video viewers completed the 10-question survey, with comprehension scores ranging from 72% to 100%. Evaluation of caregivers that viewed our video supports understanding of video contents. Ultimately, the technique used to create and disseminate the resources may serve as a template for others providing pre-disaster planning education. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;page 1 of 5).

Seasonal Dynamics of the Airborne Bacterial Community and Selected Viruses in a Children’s Daycare Center

PubMed Central

Prussin, Aaron J.; Vikram, Amit; Bibby, Kyle J.; Marr, Linsey C.

2016-01-01

Children’s daycare centers appear to be hubs of respiratory infectious disease transmission, yet there is only limited information about the airborne microbial communities that are present in daycare centers. We have investigated the microbial community of the air in a daycare center, including seasonal dynamics in the bacterial community and the presence of specific viral pathogens. We collected filters from the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of a daycare center every two weeks over the course of a year. Amplifying and sequencing the 16S rRNA gene revealed that the air was dominated by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes that are commonly associated with the human skin flora. Clear seasonal differences in the microbial community were not evident; however, the community structure differed when the daycare center was closed and unoccupied for a 13-day period. These results suggest that human occupancy, rather than the environment, is the major driver in shaping the microbial community structure in the air of the daycare center. Using PCR for targeted viruses, we detected a seasonal pattern in the presence of respiratory syncytial virus that included the period of typical occurrence of the disease related to the virus; however, we did not detect the presence of adenovirus or rotavirus at any time. PMID:26942410

[Dermatology day-care: between official rules and reality].

PubMed

Ingen-Housz-Oro, S; Durand-Zaleski, I; Cosnes, A; Valeyrie-Allanore, L; Moreno, J-C; Chosidow, O; Wolkenstein, P

2012-11-01

Official rules published in 2006 and 2010 concerning ambulatory care rates in France led to artificial redistribution of this activity from day-care hospitalization to consultations. In our dermatological day-care establishment, we compared the financial costs engendered for patients admitted for day-care hospitalization and those seen at consultations. From 2011/01/10 to 2011/02/04, for each patient, we prospectively analyzed the following data: day-care hospitalization or consultation, age, sex, diagnosis, laboratory and radiological examination, non-dermatological consultations, time spent with the patient by doctors (interns, senior doctors) and nurses, with timing by a stop-watch. The hospital cost was the total for medical examinations (official nomenclature), non-dermatological consultations, physicians' and nurses' salaries and establishment overheads (216 €). The hospital revenue regarding the consultation group consisted of the sum of reimbursement for medical examination, dermatological and non-dermatological consultations, and regarding the day-care hospitalization group, the dermatology rate (670 €) or chemotherapy sessions (380 €). Results were compared using a Chi(2) test and a Student's t-test (P ≤ 0.05). One hundred and twenty-seven patients were included: 67 in the day-care hospitalization group and 60 in the consultation group. Patients in the day-care hospitalization group were older and had significantly more radiological examinations and non-dermatological consultations, but the number of laboratory examinations and skin biopsies did not differ between the two groups. The mean time spent by doctors was similar in both groups but the time spent by senior doctors without the help of interns was significantly greater and longer than the time for a standard consultation. Nurses spent a mean 72 minutes with each hospitalized patient and 35 minutes with consultation patients (P = 0.007). Hospital costs were identical in both groups at around 415 €. The hospital showed a profit for day-care hospitalization patients (252 €) and a loss (244 €) for consultation patients. Half of the patients studied were in day-care hospitalization and half were seen in consultations. The high number of bed-ridden patients with bullous pemphigoid accounts for the fact that day-care patients were older. The reasons for the significantly longer time spent by nurses with day-care hospitalized patients were administration and supervision of chemotherapy, skin care and nursing of bed-ridden patients. However, nurses spent 35 min with each consultation patient, justifying the need to maintain the posts of these staff in such day-care units. The availability of physicians for patients with severe dermatoses and the organization of medical examinations in the same place in the same day underscore the need for medical structures like day-care hospitalization. At present, time spent on intellectual work involving reflection is regrettably not taken into account, which is detrimental to this specialty. The hospital was in profit for day hospitalizations while consultations resulted in losses, in particular because of the absence of social security reimbursement of the establishment's overheads. Rules are in need of modification in order to allow the treatment of patients with more complicated conditions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Implications of screening and childcare exclusion policies for children with Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli infections: lessons learned from an outbreak in a daycare centre, Norway, 2012.

PubMed

MacDonald, Emily; Dalane, Per Kjetil; Aavitsland, Preben; Brandal, Lin Thorstensen; Wester, Astrid Louise; Vold, Line

2014-12-18

In Norway, it is recommended that children with Shiga-Toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections are excluded from daycare centers until up to five consecutive negative stool cultures are obtained. Children with gastrointestinal illness of unknown etiology are asked to remain home for 48 hours after symptoms subside. On 16 October 2012, two cases of STEC infection were reported from a daycare center, where other children were also symptomatic. Local health authorities temporarily closed the daycare center and all children and staff were screened for pathogenic E. coli. We present the results of the outbreak investigation in order to discuss the implications of screening and the exclusion policies for children attending daycare in Norway. Stool specimens for all children (n = 91) and employees at the daycare center (n = 40) were tested for pathogenic E. coli. Information on demographics, symptoms and potential exposures was collected from parents through trawling interviews and a web-based questionnaire. Cases were monitored to determine the duration of shedding and the resulting exclusion period from daycare. We identified five children with stx1- and eae-positive STEC O103:H2 infections, and one staff member and one child with STEC O91:H- infections. Three additional children who tested positive for stx1 and eae genes were considered probable STEC cases. Three cases were asymptomatic. Median length of time of exclusion from daycare for STEC cases was 53 days (range 9 days-108 days). Survey responses for 75 children revealed mild gastrointestinal symptoms among both children with STEC infections and children with negative microbiological results. There was no evidence of common exposures; person-to-person transmission was likely. The results of screening indicate that E. coli infections can spread in daycare centres, reflected in the proportion of children with STEC and EPEC infections. While screening can identify asymptomatic cases, the implications should be carefully considered as it can produce unanticipated results and have significant socioeconomic consequences. Daycare exclusion policies should be reviewed to address the management of prolonged asymptomatic shedders.

Evaluating food menus from daycare centers in Guatemala City: descriptive and analytical approaches.

PubMed

Doak, Colleen M; Hamelinck, Victoria; Vossenaar, Marieke; Panday, Bindiya; Soto-Méndez, María José; Campos Ponce, Maiza; Solomons, Noel W

2012-09-01

This objective of this study was a methodological analysis of the variety and diversity of dietary items and their different origins offered in institutional menus across four daycare centers serving low-income families in Guatemala City. Foods, as served in daycare centers, were used to explore and illustrate the different approaches to evaluating food quality. Foods served at daycare centers were analyzed for variety (number of different items) and diversity (using three food-classification systems). The weight and energy contributions for each meal were reported for animal, plant, mixed, or water; modern versus traditional foods; fortified versus non-fortified foods; and processed versus unprocessed foods. During 5 d of observation, three of the four daycare centers served 100% of the food groups of the current Guatemalan and international classification systems. In addition, the results showed the four daycare centers provided mainly traditional and non-fortified plant-based foods. However, although the traditional foods contributed more by weight, the modern foods contributed more energy. These findings showed that the "modern" foods served at daycare centers are energy dense compared with traditional foods. These daycare centers contributed to variety and diversity while serving mainly traditional, plant-based foods. Our analysis went beyond the simple existence (mention) of a food as consumed to weight in grams or calories to provide potentially new and useful perspectives for understanding how guidelines for healthful eating patterns can be promoted and assessed, not only in children or in institutions but across all age groups, and settings. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Early Child Care and Education, Italian Style: The Reggio Emilia Daycare and Preschool Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New, Rebecca S.

The municipal early childhood program in Reggio Emilia, Italy, one of the most renowned examples of community-supported child care systems in the Western world, is described. A brief historical overview is followed by discussion of such aspects of the Reggio Emilia project as the high level of exchange between families and schools, the…

Educators or Babysitters? Daycare Caregivers Reflect on Their Profession

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shpancer, Noam; Dunlap, Brandi; Melick, Katherine M.; Coxe, Kelly; Kuntzman, Devon; Sayre, Pamela S.; Toto, Christine; Spivey, Aria T.

2008-01-01

Forty-nine caregivers in eight daycare centres were interviewed about their daycare experiences, their own childcare decisions and practices, and their views of how their profession is perceived by society. Results suggest that: caregivers comment positively on the process elements of their work, such as their enjoyment and love of children, and…

Do Community and Caregiver Factors Influence Hospice Use at the End of Life Among Older Adults With Alzheimer Disease?

PubMed

Karikari-Martin, Pauline; McCann, Judith J; Hebert, Liesi E; Haffer, Samuel C; Phillips, Marcia

2012-05-01

Hospice is an underused service among people with Alzheimer disease. This study used the Hospice Use Model to examine community, care recipient, and caregiver characteristics associated with hospice use before death among 145 community-dwelling care recipients with Alzheimer disease and their caregivers. Secondary analysis using logistic regression modeling indicated that older age, male gender, black race, and better functional health of care recipients with Alzheimer disease were associated with a decreased likelihood of using hospice (model χ 2 5 = 23.5, P = .0003). Moreover, care recipients recruited from an Alzheimer clinic were more likely to use hospice than those recruited from adult day-care centers. Caregiver factors were not independent predictors of hospice use. However, there was a significant interaction between hours of care provided each week and recruitment site. Among care recipients from the Alzheimer clinic, the probability of hospice use increased as caregiving intensity increased. This relationship was reversed in care recipients from day-care centers. Results suggest that adult day-care centers need to partner with hospice programs in the community. In conclusion, care recipient and community service factors influence hospice use in individuals with Alzheimer disease.

Investigating the detection of multi-homed devices independent of operating systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

timestamp data was used to estimate clock skews using linear regression and linear optimization methods. Analysis revealed that detection depends on...the consistency of the estimated clock skew. Through vertical testing, it was also shown that clock skew consistency depends on the installed...optimization methods. Analysis revealed that detection depends on the consistency of the estimated clock skew. Through vertical testing, it was also

End-to-End Fault Tolerance Using Transport Layer Multihoming

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy...dissertation and that in my opinion it meets the academic and professional standard required by the University as a dissertation for the degree of Doctor...grow tired of revising the same text over and over, he always showed enthusiasm for helping me improve its

Daycare Staff Emotions and Coping Related to Children of Divorce: A Q Methodological Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Øverland, Klara; Størksen, Ingunn; Bru, Edvin; Thorsen, Arlene Arstad

2014-01-01

This Q methodological study explores emotional experiences and coping of daycare staff when working with children of divorce and their families. Two main coping strategies among daycare staff were identified: 1) Confident copers, and 2) Non-confident copers. Interviews exemplify the two main experiences. Both groups may struggle with coping in…

Toilet training in healthy children: results of a questionnaire study involving parents who make use of day-care at least once a week.

PubMed

Kaerts, Nore; Vermandel, Alexandra; Van Hal, Guido; Wyndaele, Jean-Jacques

2014-03-01

To investigate how toilet training (TT) is dealt with and what the associated feelings are in Flemish families using day-care at least once a week. A questionnaire was provided to 256 parents of healthy children between 15 and 35 months old, using day-care every week. Data were analyzed using SPSS18.0. Two hundred twenty-two questionnaires were completed (response rate: 87%), of which 221 were valid. The overall results show that the start of TT and method used are mainly in line with current recommendations, and that the cooperation between parents and day-care is seen as positive, providing support for the parents in guiding their child in the TT-process. Most parents (74%) stated that day-care and parents should play an equal role in the TT-process. However, 17% of the parents experienced uncertainty, stress, and/or frustration related to TT. This percentage increased to 30% when asked about the right moment to start TT. Moreover, 18% of the parents reported a lack of time to guide their child in the TT-process. Eighteen percent of the parents agreed that responsibility for TT is increasingly passed on to day-care, while 46% remained undecided. In addition, 40% of the parents had no idea whether they used the same TT method as the day-care center. The results, in general, reflect a positive image of how TT is dealt with. However, several concerns were raised about the shared TT between parents and day-care, implying that further research on this topic is needed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[Evaluation of the hygienic-sanitary conditions of kitchens in public and philanthropic daycare centers].

PubMed

Oliveira, Mariana de Novaes; Brasil, Anne Lise Dias; Taddei, José Augusto de Aguiar Carrazedo

2008-01-01

This paper aims to evaluate the hygienic-sanitary conditions of kitchens in philanthropic and public daycare centers in the city of São Paulo using a tool of easy application. Information on the hygienic-sanitary conditions was gathered observing the operational conditions of five public and philanthropic daycare centers in the city of São Paulo. A score was developed for classifying the risks of food contamination. The operational conditions in the kitchens of the studied philanthropic and public daycare centers in the city of São Paulo can result in contamination of the prepared food. Among the most important risk factors for food contamination is the behavior of the workers who handle the food. Training and continuous supervision of the involved personnel are the best and easiest alternatives for assuring the appropriate hygienic-sanitary conditions and quality of the food offered to the children in these daycare centers.

Length of day-care attendance and attachment behavior in eighteen-month-old infants.

PubMed

Schwartz, P

1983-08-01

Differences in the attachment behavior of 18-month-old full-time, part-time, and non-day-care infants from intact middle-class homes were compared. Mothers of the day-care infants had made arrangements to return to work before their infants' birth, and all the infants had been placed in day-care homes before 9 months of age. The study involved 2 sessions: a home observation and the strange-situation procedure in a laboratory setting. The home-observation and rating scale scores of maternal behaviors directed at the child yielded few group differences. More full-time day-care children (but not part-time children) were found to display avoidance of the mother during the final reunion episode of the strange-situation procedure than did non-day-care children. The length of the daily separation appears to be an important determinant of day-care effects on infant-mother attachment.

Tomorrow Is Today at Silver Ridge.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wise, B. J.

1994-01-01

Describes a Washington State school's efforts to forego factory-model education for a boldly restructured curriculum dependent on new technologies, such as computer networks, two-year classrooms, ongoing staff development and planning sessions, and an innovative onsite day-care program for staff and students. The school has succeeded in…

Huge Increase in Day-Care Workers: A Result of Multiple Societal Changes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bureau of Labor Statistics (DOL), Washington, DC.

Using Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates of employment in day-care establishments, this study analyzes changes in day care over the past 20 years. Growth in day-care employment has been much stronger than that of other industries. Since 1972, employment has increased by nearly 250 per cent. Causes of growth includes changing trends in enrollment…

Molecular characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from employees, children, and environmental surfaces in Iowa child daycare facilities.

PubMed

Moritz, Erin D; Hanson, Blake M; Kates, Ashley E; Smith, Tara C

2015-05-01

Infectious agents have the potential to thrive in child daycare facilities. Asymptomatic Staphylococcus aureus carriage is a risk factor for developing infection and contributes to transmission. We collected swabs from 110 employees, 111 unexposed adults, 81 children, and 214 environmental surfaces at 11 Iowa daycare facilities. S aureus isolates were characterized using antibiotic resistance profiles and Staphylococcal protein A typing. Staphylococcal protein A types were grouped into cluster complexes using the Based Upon Repeat Pattern algorithm. All isolates (from 38 employees, 37 unexposed adults, 16 children, and 19 surfaces) were characterized. Daycare employees were more likely to carry erythromycin-resistant S aureus than unexposed adults (odds ratio, 3.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-12.7; P = .033). Isolates were genetically heterogeneous, although isolates from employees appeared more clonal than those from unexposed adults. Strains associated with ST8 were identified in 5 daycare facilities and 3 unexposed adults. S aureus isolates collected from employees, children, and surfaces of daycare facilities are genetically heterogeneous, but contain strains associated with community-associated methicillin-resistant S aureus. This suggests that daycare facilities can serve as reservoirs for community-associated methicillin-resistant S aureus and facilitate genetic exchange. Employees may be at increased risk of carrying antibiotic-resistant strains, indicating more research is necessary into this occupational group. Copyright © 2015 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Detecting a Multi-Homed Device Using Clock Skew

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

in Testing ....................................................17  Figure 11.  Dual-Homed Raspberry Pi Used in Testing...seven Raspberry Pis as hosts. The switches used were the HP 2920 and the HP 3800, and the Raspberry Pis were connected to the network using their built...Testing 18 One of the Raspberry Pis had an added USB 2.0 Gigabit LAN adapter that was used as its second connection to the network. The connections for

New Abstractions for Mobile Connectivity and Resource Management

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-01

networked systems, con- sisting of replicated backend services and mobile , multi-homed clients. We derive a state machine for ECCP supporting migration...makes ECCP useful not only for mobility of client devices, but also for backend services which are increasingly run in VMs or containers on platforms...layers of the network stack, instead of the traditional IP/port, improve mobility for clients and backend services and reduce unnecessary coupling of

End-to-End Concurrent Multipath Transfer Using Transport Layer Multihoming

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

Department,Newark, DE ,19716 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S... Systems , Inc. My thanks to all for their generous funding that made this research possible. iv TABLE OF CONTENTS ABSTRACT...SCTP implementation, which is written for the BSD family of operating systems . This implementation effort was funded by Cisco Systems , with the goal of

Family Day Care Handbook. Fifth Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bellm, Dan

The California Child Care Initiative is a collaborative program with the objective of increasing the supply of licensed quality child care in the state to better meet demand. This handbook provides family child care providers with guidance in implementing and maintaining a family daycare operation. The handbook provides articles, sample forms and…

An Evaluation Program for Nonprofit Recreation Organizations.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-01

I do not care to use it - not satisfied. I use full time daycare elsewhere. Children are not supervised well enough - need more care, e.g., diapers ...games in spring/fall. 131 F. SAILING Too hard to use. G. SWIMMING Swim classes interfere. Leave open year round. Install solar heating. H. YOUTH

Risk of childhood otitis media with focus on potentially modifiable factors: A Danish follow-up cohort study.

PubMed

Kørvel-Hanquist, Asbjørn; Koch, Anders; Lous, Jørgen; Olsen, Sjurdur Frodi; Homøe, Preben

2018-03-01

Otitis media is the primary cause of antibiotic prescription in children. Two-thirds of all children experience at least one episode of otitis media before the age of 7 years. The aim of this study was to characterise the attributable effect of several modifiable risk exposures on the risk of >3 episodes of otitis media at age 18 months and 7 years within a large prospective national birth cohort. The study used the Danish National Birth Cohort comprising information about otitis media and risk exposures from more than 50,000 mother-child pairs from the period 1996-2002. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios for the risk factors and to calculate the population attributable fraction. Short time with breastfeeding, early introduction to daycare, cesarean section, and low compliance to the national vaccination program were all associated with an increased risk of >3 episodes of otitis media at 18 months of age and at 7 years of age. The fraction of children with otitis media attributed from breastfeeding lasting for less than 6 months was 10%. Introduction to daycare before the age of 12 months attributed with 20% of the cases of >3 episodes of otitis media. Short duration of breastfeeding, early introduction into daycare, cesarean section, and low compliance with the national vaccination program increased the risk of experiencing >3 episodes of otitis media at 18 months, and at 7 years of age. These are factors that all can be modulated. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Targeting burn prevention in Ukraine: evaluation of base knowledge in burn prevention and first aid treatment.

PubMed

Gamelli, Liza; Mykychack, Iryna; Kushnir, Antin; Driscoll, Daniel N; Fuzaylov, Gennadiy

2015-01-01

Burn prevention has been identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a topic in need of further investigation and education throughout the world, with an increased need in low-income countries. It has been noted that implementing educational programs for prevention in high income countries has aided in lowering the rate of burn injuries. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the current education level of knowledge of prevention and first aid treatment of scald burns. A prevention campaign will target these educational needs as a part of an outreach program to improve burn care in Ukraine. The research team evaluated the current health structure in Ukraine and how it could benefit from the increased knowledge of burn prevention and first aid. A test was designed to assess the baseline level of knowledge with regard to first aid and scald prevention in parents, pregnant woman, and healthcare and daycare providers. A total of 14,456 tests were sent to pediatric clinics, obstetrician clinics, and daycare facilities to test respondents. A total of 6,120 completed tests were returned. Doctors presented with the highest level of knowledge averaging 77.0% on prevention and 67.5% on first aid while daycare workers presented the largest gap in knowledge at 65.0% in prevention and 54.3% in first aid. Interest in further educational materials was reported by 92% of respondents. The results of this study clearly show a lack of knowledge in first aid and prevention of scald burn injury in all the populations tested.

Nutritional composition of school meals serving children from 7 to 36 months of age in municipal day-care centres in the metropolitan area of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.

PubMed

Retondario, Anabelle; Silva, Débora Letícia Frizzi; Salgado, Silvana Magalhães; Alves, Márcia Aurelina de Oliveira; Ferreira, Sila Mary Rodrigues

2016-06-01

The Brazilian National School Feeding Program (PNAE) seeks to meet student's nutritional needs during the period they remain in school. This study aimed to determine the nutritional composition of meals provided in municipal day-care centres serving children of 7-11 months (group A) and 12-36 months (group B) of age and to compare observed values with the PNAE's and dietary reference intakes' (DRI) recommendations. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 4 day-care centres in the metropolitan area of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil, between June and November 2013. Food samples of six daily meals were collected during 20 non-consecutive days, totalling 120 samples. For each meal, average served and consumed portions were submitted for laboratory analysis of moisture, ash, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, Na, Ca and Fe and compared with the PNAE's and DRI's values. No statistically significant difference was found between age groups (P=0·793) regarding portion sizes and nutritional composition. The same menu was offered to both groups in 95 % of the meals (n 114), although the groups' nutritional needs were different. For group A, served meals met PNAE's recommendations for energy, carbohydrates, proteins, Na and Ca content, and consumed portions provided 70 % of the nutritional needs for carbohydrates, proteins and Ca. For group B, served portions complied with the PNAE's values for proteins, Na and Ca. Proteins and Na reached 70 % of the nutritional needs when consumed food was evaluated. School feeding in day-care centres partially meet PNAE's guidelines and children's nutritional requirements, contradicting the primary objective established by the national programme.

Psychometric properties of the Brazilian-adapted version of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire in public child daycare centers.

PubMed

Filgueiras, Alberto; Pires, Pedro; Maissonette, Silvia; Landeira-Fernandez, J

2013-08-01

Well-designed screening assessment instruments that can evaluate child development in public daycare centers represent an important resource to help improve the quality of these programs, as an early detection method for early developmental delay. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire, 3rd edition (ASQ-3), comprises a series of 21 questionnaires designed to screen developmental performance in the domains of communication, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, problem solving, and personal-social ability in children aged 2 to 66 months. The purpose of the present work was to translate and adapt all of the ASQ-3 questionnaires for use in Brazilian public child daycare centers and to explore their psychometric characteristics with both Classical Test Theory and Rating Scale analyses from the Rasch model family. A total of 18 Ages & Stages Questionnaires - Brazilian translation (ASQ-BR) questionnaires administered at intervals from 6 to 60 months of age were analyzed based on primary caregiver evaluations of 45,640 children distributed in 468 public daycare centers in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The results indicated that most of the ASQ-BR questionnaires had adequate internal consistency. Exploratory factor analyses yielded a one-factor solution for each domain of all of the ASQ-BR questionnaires. The only exception was the personal-social domain in some of the questionnaires. Item Response Theory based on Rating Scale analysis (infit and outfit mean squares statistics) indicated that only 44 of 540 items showed misfit problems. In summary, the ASQ-BR questionnaires are psychometrically sound developmental screening instruments that can be easily administered by primary caregivers. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Nutrition in childhood--demands and reality. Outcomes of the nutrition and catering situation in Saxon day-care centers].

PubMed

Wolfram, N; Hillger, C; Jüttler, G; Müller, C; Benterbusch, R; Kirch, W

2007-10-01

The aim of this research project was to compile a significant database and information about the nutritional and catering situation concerning children aged between 4 and 6 years in Saxony. The project focused on the range of foods available in day-care centers. The actual food consumption was not assessed. Standardized interviews of the management of day-care centers were undertaken. Furthermore standardized questionnaires, which included a three-day-recall of the contents of the children's lunch boxes, were used to interview parents (n = 4082, response rate 49 %). In order to evaluate the lunch catering, the menus were analysed for 4 weeks. Hot lunches were delivered to the day-care centers. For the most part caterers and day-care center management did not translate the recommendations of an optimized mixed diet. Meat dishes were too often part of the menus. Salt-water fish was offered irregularly and the preparation did not fulfill the recommendations. Potatoes, fresh fruits, uncooked vegetarian food or salads were seldom offered on the menus. Regardless of the monthly household budget most children have lunch in day-care centers. The meal offerings, not only lunches, showed potential for improvement concerning a balanced energy and nutrient provision. Therefore all persons involved in providing children's meals should take on full responsibility.

A suggested approach for imputation of missing dietary data for young children in daycare.

PubMed

Stevens, June; Ou, Fang-Shu; Truesdale, Kimberly P; Zeng, Donglin; Vaughn, Amber E; Pratt, Charlotte; Ward, Dianne S

2015-01-01

Parent-reported 24-h diet recalls are an accepted method of estimating intake in young children. However, many children eat while at childcare making accurate proxy reports by parents difficult. The goal of this study was to demonstrate a method to impute missing weekday lunch and daytime snack nutrient data for daycare children and to explore the concurrent predictive and criterion validity of the method. Data were from children aged 2-5 years in the My Parenting SOS project (n=308; 870 24-h diet recalls). Mixed models were used to simultaneously predict breakfast, dinner, and evening snacks (B+D+ES); lunch; and daytime snacks for all children after adjusting for age, sex, and body mass index (BMI). From these models, we imputed the missing weekday daycare lunches by interpolation using the mean lunch to B+D+ES [L/(B+D+ES)] ratio among non-daycare children on weekdays and the L/(B+D+ES) ratio for all children on weekends. Daytime snack data were used to impute snacks. The reported mean (± standard deviation) weekday intake was lower for daycare children [725 (±324) kcal] compared to non-daycare children [1,048 (±463) kcal]. Weekend intake for all children was 1,173 (±427) kcal. After imputation, weekday caloric intake for daycare children was 1,230 (±409) kcal. Daily intakes that included imputed data were associated with age and sex but not with BMI. This work indicates that imputation is a promising method for improving the precision of daily nutrient data from young children.

[Introduction of Shimane University's outside funded support project for female researchers and healthcare staff].

PubMed

Tsumori, Toshiko

2013-09-01

Shimane University has started to provide facilities and services to female researchers and healthcare staff who have worked for the university or its hospital after 2007. This initiative had been supported by grants from the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology until 2010. Over time, it has become clear that these efforts, including a day-and-night nursery, day-care for sick children, temporary day-care, after-school programs, and research support system have effectively sustained female researchers and staff in maintaining a balance between private life and work. It is essential that the university devote part of its budget along with outside funding for continued childcare, which has so motivated these female employees. Moreover, it is expected that these efforts will become an effective recruitment tool for excellent young teachers and researchers.

Daycare and Preschool Handbook for Churches.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McMurphy, John R.

Designed to guide church groups interested in opening and operating day care and preschool centers, this book offers a view of such centers as extensions of the church. Contents of the volume are divided into four parts devoted to (1) getting a church early childhood education program started, (2) administering the center, (3) operating the new…

Vocational Rehabilitation Day-Care Services for a Drug-Dependent Population

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weiner, Harvey; And Others

1977-01-01

The philosophy, history, and operations of the Vocational Opportunities Center (VOC) are described. The VOC is offered as a model of employability service to a specific client group and part of a more comprehensive multimodality drug program. Presented at the National Drug Abuse Conference, San Francisco, May 5-9, 1977. (Author)

Reasons behind Young Learners' Learning of Foreign Languages

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akçay, Aslihan; Ferzan Bütüner, Tuba; Arikan, Arda

2015-01-01

English has become a compulsory lesson starting at the second grade in Turkey while younger learners are growingly introduced to it at earlier ages through various pre-schools, day-care programs and private courses. This descriptive study focuses on young learners' self-reported reasons for learning English and other foreign languages. Twenty…

Adult Day Care--Extended Family.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Bert Kruger

This pamphlet describes a multi-purpose day-care center for the elderly in Abilene, Texas which is intended to fill the "extended family" role of offering companionship, medical attention, and other aspects of concern to older persons in the community. The goals of the program are as follows: (1) to keep individuals out of institutions…

The German day-care study: multicomponent non-drug therapy for people with cognitive impairment in day-care centres supplemented with caregiver counselling (DeTaMAKS) - study protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Behrndt, Elisa-Marie; Straubmeier, Melanie; Seidl, Hildegard; Book, Stephanie; Graessel, Elmar; Luttenberger, Katharina

2017-07-17

It is the wish of both people with cognitive impairment and their informal caregivers for the impaired person to live at home for as long as possible. This is also in line with economic arguments about health. The existing structure of day-care services for the elderly can be used to achieve this. Due to the current lack of empirical evidence in this field, most day-care centres do not offer a scientifically evaluated, structured intervention, but instead offer a mixture of individual activities whose efficacy has not yet been established. Informal caregivers of people with dementia use day-care centres primarily to relieve themselves of their care tasks and as a support service. The present study therefore investigates the effectiveness of a combination of a multicomponent activation therapy for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild to moderate dementia at day-care centres and a brief telephone intervention for their informal caregivers. The study is conducted as a cluster-randomised intervention trial at 34 day-care centres in Germany with a 6-month treatment phase. The centres in the waitlist control group provide "care as usual". A power analysis indicated that 346 people should initially be included in the study. The primary endpoints of the study include the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) and cognitive capacities on the side of the day-care centre users and the subjectively perceived burden and well-being of the informal caregivers. The total duration of the study is 3 years, during which data are collected both by the psychometric testing of the people with cognitive impairment and by telephone interviews with informal caregivers. The project has three distinctive quality features. First, it is embedded in real care situations since the day-care services have already been established for this target group. Second, due to the large number of cases and the fact that the participating day-care centres are spread across the entire country, the results can be expected to be generalisable. Third, the interventions can be assumed to be implementable as they required only a one-day training event for the staff already working at the centres. ISRCTN16412551 (Registration date: 30 July 2014, registered retrospectively).

[Factors predicting sensory profile of 4 to 18 month old infants].

PubMed

Pedrosa, Carina; Caçola, Priscila; Carvalhal, Maria Isabel Martins Mourão

2015-01-01

To identify environment factors predicting sensory profile of infants between 4 and 18 months old. This cross-sectional study evaluated 97 infants (40 females e 57 males), with a mean age of 1.05±0.32 years with the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants (TSFI) and also asked 97 parents and 11 kindergarten teachers of seven daycare centers to answer the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development- Infant Scale (AHEMD-IS). The AHEMD-IS is a questionnaire that characterizes the opportunities in the home environment for infants between 3 and 18 months of age. We tested the association between affordances and the sensory profile of infants. Significant variables were entered into a regression model to determine predictors of sensory profile. The majority of infants (66%) had a normal sensory profile and 34% were at risk or deficit. Affordances in the home were classified as adequate and they were good in the studied daycare centers. The results of the regression revealed that only daily hours in daycare center and daycare outside space influenced the sensory profile of infants, in particular the Ocular-Motor Control component. The sensory profile of infants was between normal and at risk. While the family home offered adequate affordances for motor development, the daycare centers of the infants involved demonstrated a good quantity and quality of affordances. Overall, we conclude that daily hours in the daycare center and daycare outside space were predictors of the sensory profile, particular on Ocular-Motor Control component. Copyright © 2015 Associação de Pediatria de São Paulo. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

[Infectious diseases among Brazilian preschool children attending daycare centers].

PubMed

Pedraza, Dixis Figueroa; Queiroz, Daiane de; Sales, Márcia Cristina

2014-02-01

The scope of this article is to analyze the prevalence and factors associated with the development of infectious diseases that affect children in daycare centers, namely respiratory infections, diarrheal disease and parasitic infections. Bibliographic research was conducted in the MEDLINE, LILACS and SciELO databases, and observational studies were included. 129 studies were identified, of which 21 were considered relevant to this study, namely two longitudinal and 19 cross-sectional studies. The systematization of the reviewed studies highlighted: i) the presence of intestinal parasites was the main outcome analyzed, followed by respiratory infections; ii) only one study investigated the occurrence of diarrheal disease; iii) the Giardia lamblia was the most prevalent parasitosis; iv) the variables that were most often associated with the development of intestinal parasitosis were child age, family income and maternal education; v) the attendance at daycare centers was a risk factor for intestinal parasites and respiratory infections. Respiratory and parasitic infections are major problems in institutionalized children in daycare centers. The reduction of such diseases involves a complex web of socio-economic, sanitation and daycare center infrastructure aspects.

HIV/AIDS in Early Childhood Day-Care Settings. Final Report. Phase I.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McKinney, David D., Ed.; And Others

A feasibility study regarding the training and information needs of preschool and day care administrators, staff, and teachers regarding HIV/AIDS was conducted. This study also examined the issues associated with the presence of HIV-positive children in preschool and day care settings and the need for designing a program to help preschools and day…

Portraits of Whole Language Classrooms: Learning for All Ages.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mills, Heidi, Ed.; Clyde, Jean Anne, Ed.

Highlighting typical days in a variety of whole-language classrooms, this book describes learners of all ages, beginning with a home day-care setting through preschool programs and elementary classrooms to a junior high and high school. The book also describes a special education site and an English-as-a-Second Language classroom, and concludes in…

"When Will Your Program Be Available in Spanish?" Adapting an Early Parenting Intervention for Latino Families

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dumas, Jean E.; Arriaga, Ximena; Begle, Angela Moreland; Longoria, Zayra

2010-01-01

This paper describes the Spanish adaptation of PACE--"Parenting Our Children to Excellence." Successfully offered in preschools and daycare centers since 2002, PACE is a research-based preventive intervention to support families in their parenting task through discussions and activities that address practical childrearing issues and promote child…

Investigation of an Escherichia coli O145 outbreak in a child day-care centre--extensive sampling and characterization of eae- and stx1-positive E. coli yields epidemiological and socioeconomic insight.

PubMed

Wahl, Erik; Vold, Line; Lindstedt, Bjørn A; Bruheim, Torkjel; Afset, Jan E

2011-09-08

On October 29th 2009 the health authorities in the city of Trondheim, Norway were alerted about a case of Shiga toxin-positive E. coli (STEC) O145 in a child with bloody diarrhoea attending a day-care centre. Symptomatic children in this day-care centre were sampled, thereby identifying three more cases. This initiated an outbreak investigation. A case was defined as a child attending the day-care centre, in whom eae- and stx1- but not stx2-positive E. coli O145:H28 was diagnosed from a faecal sample, with multilocus variable number of tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) profile identical to the index isolate. All 61 children, a staff of 14 in the day-care centre, and 74 close contacts submitted faecal samples. Staff and parents were interviewed about cases' exposure to foods and animals. Faecal samples from 31 ewes from a sheep herd to which the children were exposed were analyzed for E. coli O145. Sixteen cases were identified, from which nine presented diarrhoea but not haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The attack rate was 0.26, and varied between age groups (0.13-0.40) and between the three day-care centre departments (0.20-0.50), and was significantly higher amongst the youngest children. Median duration of shedding was 20 days (0-71 days). Children were excluded from the day-care centre during shedding, requiring parents to take compassionate leave, estimated to be a minimum total of 406 days for all cases. Atypical enteropathogenic E. coli (aEPEC) were detected among 14 children other than cases. These isolates were genotypically different from the outbreak strain. Children in the day-care centre were exposed to faecal pollution from a sheep herd, but E. coli O145 was not detected in the sheep. We report an outbreak of stx1- and eae-positive STEC O145:H28 infection with mild symptoms among children in a day-care centre. Extensive sampling showed occurrence of the outbreak strain as well as other STEC and aEPEC strains in the outbreak population. MLVA-typing of the STEC-isolates strongly indicates a common source of infection. The study describes epidemiological aspects and socioeconomic consequences of a non-O157 STEC outbreak, which are less commonly reported than O157 outbreaks.

Higher cortisol is associated with poorer executive functioning in preschool children: The role of parenting stress, parent coping and quality of daycare

PubMed Central

Wagner, Shannon L.; Cepeda, Ivan; Krieger, Dena; Maggi, Stefania; D’Angiulli, Amedeo; Weinberg, Joanne; Grunau, Ruth E.

2016-01-01

Child executive functions (cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, working memory) are key to success in school. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, is known to affect cognition; however, there is limited information about how child cortisol levels, parenting factors and child care context relate to executive functions in young children. The aim of this study was to examine relationships between child cortisol, parenting stress, parent coping, and daycare quality in relation to executive functions in children aged 3–5 years. We hypothesized that (1) poorer executive functioning would be related to higher child cortisol and higher parenting stress, and (2) positive daycare quality and positive parent coping style would buffer the effects of child cortisol and parenting stress on executive functions. A total of 101 children (53 girls, 48 boys, mean age 4.24 years ±0.74) with complete data on all measures were included. Three saliva samples to measure cortisol were collected at the child’s daycare/preschool in one morning. Parents completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Preschool Version (BRIEF-P), Parenting Stress Index (PSI), and Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WCQ). The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale – Revised (ECERS-R) was used to measure the quality of daycare. It was found that children with poorer executive functioning had higher levels of salivary cortisol, and their parents reported higher parenting stress. However, parent coping style and quality of daycare did not modulate these relationships. Identifying ways to promote child executive functioning is an important direction for improving school readiness. PMID:26335047

[Formula: see text]Higher cortisol is associated with poorer executive functioning in preschool children: The role of parenting stress, parent coping and quality of daycare.

PubMed

Wagner, Shannon L; Cepeda, Ivan; Krieger, Dena; Maggi, Stefania; D'Angiulli, Amedeo; Weinberg, Joanne; Grunau, Ruth E

2016-01-01

Child executive functions (cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, working memory) are key to success in school. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, is known to affect cognition; however, there is limited information about how child cortisol levels, parenting factors and child care context relate to executive functions in young children. The aim of this study was to examine relationships between child cortisol, parenting stress, parent coping, and daycare quality in relation to executive functions in children aged 3-5 years. We hypothesized that (1) poorer executive functioning would be related to higher child cortisol and higher parenting stress, and (2) positive daycare quality and positive parent coping style would buffer the effects of child cortisol and parenting stress on executive functions. A total of 101 children (53 girls, 48 boys, mean age 4.24 years ±0.74) with complete data on all measures were included. Three saliva samples to measure cortisol were collected at the child's daycare/preschool in one morning. Parents completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Preschool Version (BRIEF-P), Parenting Stress Index (PSI), and Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WCQ). The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale - Revised (ECERS-R) was used to measure the quality of daycare. It was found that children with poorer executive functioning had higher levels of salivary cortisol, and their parents reported higher parenting stress. However, parent coping style and quality of daycare did not modulate these relationships. Identifying ways to promote child executive functioning is an important direction for improving school readiness.

Characterization of anthropometric assessment studies of Brazilian children attending daycare centers

PubMed Central

Pedraza, Dixis Figueroa; de Menezes, Tarciana Nobre

2016-01-01

Abstract Objective: To obtain an overview of available information on the anthropometric assessment of Brazilian children attending daycare centers. Data source: A literature search was carried out in the PubMed, LILACS and SciELO databases of studies published from 1990 to 2013 in Portuguese and English languages. The following search strategy was used: (nutritional status OR anthropometrics OR malnutrition OR overweight) AND daycare centers, as well as the equivalent terms in Portuguese. In the case of MEDLINE search, the descriptor Brazil was also used. Data synthesis: It was verified that the 33 studies included in the review were comparable from a methodological point of view. The studies, in general, were characterized by their restrictive nature, geographical concentration and dispersion of results in relation to time. Considering the studies published from 2010 onwards, low prevalence of acute malnutrition and significant rates of stunting and overweight were observed. Conclusions: Despite the limitations, considering the most recent studies that used the WHO growth curves (2006), it is suggested that the anthropometric profile of Brazilian children attending daycare centers is characterized by a nutritional transition process, with significant prevalence of overweight and short stature. We emphasize the need to develop a multicenter survey that will more accurately define the current anthropometric nutritional status of Brazilian children attending daycare centers. PMID:26553574

Impact of preventive care orientation on caries status among preschool children

PubMed Central

El Batawi, Hisham Yehia; Fakhruddin, Kausar Sadia

2017-01-01

Objective: This study aims to study the impact of preventive care orientation given to caregivers of child daycare centers on their knowledge and on the prevalence of early childhood caries (ECC) among preschool children. Materials and Methods: Caregivers of twenty child daycare centers in Emirate of Sharjah were interviewed and 435 children attending these centers were surveyed for decayed missing filled teeth (dmft). The sample data were analyzed using t-tests and one-way ANOVA to assess the statistical significance of the differences in dmft score found between groups. Results: No significant correlation was found between dmft scores and family income of urban or rural centers, mothers' level of education, mothers' employment status in public centers, and frequency of dental visits. There was a significant correlation between dmft scores and mothers' employment status in private centers with the lowest scores among children of working mothers. High caries rates were observed in children attending private daycare centers where sweetened milk, juices, and snacks were served more frequently. There was a significant difference between private and public centers in caregivers' level of knowledge regarding oral health in favor of the latter. Low dmft scores were found to be associated with high level of knowledge of caregivers in public centers. Conclusions: Children are more likely to develop ECC if their caregivers are lacking knowledge or regular provision of preventive care orientation. This makes caregivers and school teachers better candidates for oral health education programs than parents. PMID:29279673

The plasticity of intellectual development: insights from preventive intervention.

PubMed

Ramey, C T; Yeates, K O; Short, E J

1984-10-01

Debates regarding the plasticity of intelligence are often fired by a confusion between 2 distinct realms of development, that is, between developmental functions (e.g., a group's average IQ over time) and individual differences (e.g., the relative rank ordering of individual IQs within a group). Questions concerning the stability of these 2 realms are statistically independent. Thus there are 2 kinds of intellectual plasticity, and there may be no developmental convergences between them. In the present study, data from an early intervention program were used to investigate the 2 kinds of plasticity separately and to examine certain possible convergences between them. The program involved children at risk for developmental retardation who were randomly assigned at birth to 2 rearing conditions (i.e., educational daycare vs. no educational intervention) and whose intellectual development was then studied longitudinally to 4 years of age. Our findings indicate that developmental functions are moderately alterable through systemic early education, particularly after infancy, whereas individual differences are moderately stable, again particularly after infancy. They also indicate that the 2 kinds of plasticity are independent; the alteration of developmental functions through daycare affects neither the stability nor the determinants of individual differences. We discuss the implications that these findings have for current models of mental development, for the nature-nurture debate, and for arguments concerning the efficacy of early intervention programs.

26 CFR 1.162-29 - Influencing legislation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... proposed regulation increasing the threshold value of commercial and residential real estate transactions... all day-care providers. Agency B in State X is charged with writing rules to implement the statute... rules that S recommends Agency B adopt to implement the statute on licensing of day-care providers...

26 CFR 1.162-29 - Influencing legislation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... proposed regulation increasing the threshold value of commercial and residential real estate transactions... all day-care providers. Agency B in State X is charged with writing rules to implement the statute... rules that S recommends Agency B adopt to implement the statute on licensing of day-care providers...

26 CFR 1.162-29 - Influencing legislation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... proposed regulation increasing the threshold value of commercial and residential real estate transactions... all day-care providers. Agency B in State X is charged with writing rules to implement the statute... rules that S recommends Agency B adopt to implement the statute on licensing of day-care providers...

26 CFR 1.162-29 - Influencing legislation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... proposed regulation increasing the threshold value of commercial and residential real estate transactions... all day-care providers. Agency B in State X is charged with writing rules to implement the statute... rules that S recommends Agency B adopt to implement the statute on licensing of day-care providers...

Emotional Exhaustion in Day-Care Workers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Løvgren, Mette

2016-01-01

Although childcare workers have the second-worst occupation for work-related health problems and the number of professional day-care centers is growing throughout Europe, few studies have examined these workers' emotional well-being. This study investigates the effect of position, competence, work role, role clarity, and work tasks on emotional…

The Ecology of Family Day Care.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kontos, Susan

1994-01-01

Examined interrelationships of family, child care, and children in the family day-care system to portray the ecology of family day care. Found that families did not choose caregivers who resembled themselves in terms of socioeconomic status, childrearing preferences, and stress. Family day-care quality was associated with conditions of caregiving…

The Link Between Daycare Experience and Attitudes Toward Daycare and Maternal Employment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shpancer, Noam; Bennett-Murphy, Laura

2006-01-01

Participants (n = 308; mean age = 20 years) completed questionnaires about their history, attitudes, and expectations regarding childcare, maternal employment and future parenting. Participants who experienced non-parental care as children had more favorable attitudes toward such care and toward maternal employment than did home-reared…

Caregiver Cognition and Behavior in Day-Care Classrooms.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holloway, Susan D.

A study examined the relationship between change in daycare children's classroom behavior and the teacher's socialization behavior. Various behaviors of 69 children in 24 classrooms were observed and coded in the fall and spring of the school year. Observers coded teacher behavior according to the Caregiver Interaction Scale, which assesses…

Daycare Children of Divorce and Their Helpers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Overland, Klara; Storksen, Ingunn; Thorsen, Arlene Arstad

2013-01-01

Caring for children of divorce may prevent emotional and behavioural problems. This study investigates daycare staff's beliefs about caring for young children who have experienced parental divorce. Q methodology was applied for this purpose, and 33 participants sorted 40 subjective statements. The Q factor analyses resulted in four factors or…

Canadian Parents' Knowledge and Satisfaction Regarding Their Child's Day-Care Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howe, Nina; Jacobs, Ellen; Vukelich, Goranka; Recchia, Holly

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine parental selection criteria and satisfaction with day care, knowledge about centre philosophy, teacher education and quality of the day-care environment. Parents ("n" = 261) and educators ("n" = 94) in 44 non-profit centres in three Canadian cities participated. Parent knowledge was…

Enhancing Peer Interaction during Guided Play in Finnish Integrated Special Groups

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Syrjämäki, Marja; Pihlaja, Päivi; Sajaniemi, Nina

2018-01-01

This article focused on the pedagogy that enhances peer interaction in integrated special groups. In Finland, most children identified as having special educational needs (SEN) attend day-care in mainstream kindergarten groups; the rest are in integrated or segregated early childhood special education (ECSE) groups in public day-care centres…

CTEPP STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR DAY CARE CENTER SAMPLE SUBJECTS RECRUITMENT (SOP-1.11)

EPA Science Inventory

The CTEPP subject recruitment procedures for the daycare center component are described in the SOP. There are two stages in this phase of CTEPP subject recruitment. The objective of the first stage is to enroll daycare centers for the study. Six target counties in each state ar...

Practice versus Politics in Danish Day-Care Centres: How to Bridge the Gap in Early Learning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clasen, Line Engel; Jensen de López, Kristine

2016-01-01

It is essential that early educators in day-care services possess adequate pedagogical tools for supporting children's communicative development. Early literacy programmes (ELPs) are potential tools. However, studies investigating the effects of ELPs seldom address implementation processes or the programme users' perspectives. This study sheds…

[Risk epidemiology and child protection statistics in early childhood – a pilot study in southern Germany].

PubMed

Thurn, Leonore; Besier, Tanja; Ziegenhain, Ute; Jud, Andreas; Kindler, Heinz; Fischer, Dieter; Fegert, Jörg M; Künster, Anne Katrin

2017-07-01

In contrast to many other countries in Europe, Germany lacks sufficient empirical data on the incidence/prevalence of child maltreatment and its risk factors. This pilot study generated systematic data on the prevalence of child abuse and neglect and its risk factors in Germany. Using a newly developed questionnaire (ESM1 and ESM2) on child abuse and neglect as well as indicators for risk factors, we conducted a survey on 35 child daycare centers in a county in southern Germany, the goal being to generate reliable data. The questionnaire and the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was completed by daycare professionals for every child between 4 and under 7 years who was attending the participating daycare center (1,122 children). Child maltreatment was reported in 13.2 % of the cases, and risk factors for future child maltreatment were detected in 38.4 % cases. This study demonstrates that systematic data collection concerning child protection is feasible in child daycare centers. In the future, we recommend that local child protection networks be modified on the basis of reliable empirical data.

Parental Satisfaction with Pediatric Day-Care Surgery and its Determinants in a Tertiary Care Hospital

PubMed Central

Sam, Cenita James; Arunachalam, Pavai A.; Manivasagan, Sivamani; Surya, T.

2017-01-01

Objective: The objective is to assess the level of parental satisfaction of pediatric day-care surgery and its different determinants. Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive study performed in a tertiary care hospital in India among parents of pediatric day-care surgery patients from June 2013 to March 2015. The core questionnaire for the assessment of patient satisfaction for general day care (COPS-D) was used. Variables related to surgery, overall satisfaction, one open-ended question, and socio-demographic data were also collected. Calculated sample size was 121. Results: The mean and standard deviation of parental satisfaction were estimated in eight domains of day care (COPS-D) using Likert scale 1–5. Preadmission visit had a mean of 4.63 (0.52), day of surgery 4.65 (0.58), operating room 4.76 (0.51), nursing care 4.46 (0.79), medical care 4.89 (0.48), information 4.51 (0.68), autonomy 4.64 (0.56), and discharge 4.50 (0.72). In elder children, there was less satisfaction on the information and discharge domains. Overall satisfaction was good in 88% of patients and was less than satisfactory when they had significant pain. Conclusion: Perception of quality of pediatric day-care surgery was assessed with a questionnaire and was found to be good. Variables related to surgery such as pain may be included in the questionnaire for assessing satisfaction in the day-care surgery. PMID:28974875

[Nutritional recovery of mild and moderately malnourished children under two different treatment approaches (ambulatory versus day-care)].

PubMed

Mariño, Mariana; Martínez, José; Azuaje, Arelis

2003-09-01

This retrospective analysis was conducted between May 1997 and May 2000 at the Centro de Atención Nutricional Infantil de Antímano, CANIA, in Caracas, Venezuela to assess the efficacy of two treatments (ambulatory versus day-care) of mild and moderate malnourished children. Inclusion criteria were: children under 10 years old with mild and moderate malnourishment, who attended a minimum of 3 control visits during a period of 12 months. One hundred fourteen malnourished children were included: fifty seven in ambulatory treatment and fifty seven in day-care treatment paired per nutritional diagnosis, gender and age (thirty nine mild and eighteen moderate malnourished children). The nutritional recovery criterion was weight for height above tenth percentile. No relation was found between treatment approaches and nutritional recovery at 3 and 6 months of treatment. In the group of mild malnourished children, the percentage of recovered patients at 3 months of treatment, that kept their recovered condition at 6 months was 83% (15/18) in the ambulatory treatment and 82% (18/22) in the day-care treatment Age of children, associated disease, acute morbidity, dietetic risk and mother's education and age were not associated with nutritional recovery at 6 months of treatment (p > 0.05). The day-care approach resulted as effective as ambulatory in mild malnourished children. In moderate malnourished new studies will need to be conducted with greater number of patients.

Phthalate and PAH concentrations in dust collected from Danish homes and daycare centers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langer, Sarka; Weschler, Charles J.; Fischer, Andreas; Bekö, Gabriel; Toftum, Jørn; Clausen, Geo

2010-06-01

As part of the Danish Indoor Environment and Children's Health (IECH) study, dust samples were collected from 500 bedrooms and 151 daycare centers of children (ages 3 to 5) living on the island of Fyn. The present paper reports results from the analyses of these samples for five phthalate esters (diethyl phthalate (DEP), di(n-butyl) phthalate (DnBP), di(isobutyl) phthalate (DiBP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBzP), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)) and three PAHs (pyrene, benz[a]anthracene (B[a]A) and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P)). The three PAHs and DEHP were detected in dust samples from all sites, while DEP, DnBP, DiBP and BBzP were detected in more than 75% of the bedrooms and more than 90% of the daycare centers. The dust mass-fractions of both phthalates and PAHs were log-normally distributed. With the exception of DEP, the mass-fractions of phthalates in dust were higher in daycare centers than homes; PAH mass-fractions in dust were similar in the two locations. There was no correlation among the different phthalates in either homes or daycare centers. In contrast, the PAH were correlated with one another - more strongly so in homes ( R2 = 0.80-0.90) than in daycare centers ( R2 = 0.28-0.45). The dust levels of several phthalates (BBzP, DnBP and DEHP) were substantially lower than those measured in a comparable study conducted 6-7 years earlier in Sweden. Although usage patterns in Denmark differ from those in Sweden, the current results may also reflect a change in the plasticizers that are used in common products including toys. PAH levels were roughly an order of magnitude lower than those measured in Berlin and Cape Cod residences, suggesting that the Danish sites are less impacted by motor vehicle emissions.

Day care for pre-school children.

PubMed

Zoritch, B; Roberts, I; Oakley, A

2000-01-01

The debate about how, where and by whom young children should be looked after is one which has occupied much social policy and media attention in recent years. Mothers undertake most of the care of young children. Internationally, out-of-home day-care provision ranges widely. These different levels of provision are not simply a response to different levels of demand for day-care, but reflect cultural and economic interests concerning the welfare of children, the need to promote mothers' participation in paid work, and the importance of socialising children into society's values. At a time when a decline in family values is held responsible for a range of social problems, the day-care debate has a special prominence. To quantify the effects of out-of-home day-care for preschool children on educational, health and welfare outcomes for children and their families. Randomised controlled trials of day-care for pre-school children were identified using electronic databases, hand searches of relevant literature, and contact with authors. Studies were included in the review if the intervention involved the provision of non-parental day care for children under 5 years of age, and the evaluation design was that of a randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trial. A total of eight trials were identified after examining 920 abstracts and 19 books. The trials were assessed for methodological quality. Day-care increases children's IQ, and has beneficial effects on behavioural development and school achievement. Long-term follow up demonstrates increased employment, lower teenage pregnancy rates, higher socio-economic status and decreased criminal behaviour. There are positive effects on mothers' education, employment and interaction with children. Effects on fathers have not been examined. Few studies look at a range of outcomes spanning the health, education and welfare domains. Most of the trials combined non-parental day-care with some element of parent training or education (mostly targeted at mothers); they did not disentangle the possible effects of these two interventions. The trials had other significant methodological weaknesses, pointing to the importance of improving on study design in this field. All the trials were carried out in the USA. Day care has beneficial effect on children's development, school success and adult life patterns. To date, all randomised trials have been conducted among disadvantaged populations in the USA. The extent to which the results are generaliseable to other cultures and socioeconomic groups has yet to be evaluated.

The Beliefs of Teachers and Daycare Staff regarding Children of Divorce: A Q Methodological Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Overland, Klara; Thorsen, Arlene Arstad; Storksen, Ingunn

2012-01-01

This Q methodological study explores beliefs of daycare staff and teachers regarding young children's reactions related to divorce. The Q factor analysis resulted in two viewpoints. Participants on the viewpoint "Child problems" believe that children show various emotional and behavioral problems related to divorce, while those on the "Structure…

Child Learning Through Child Play. Learning Activities for Two and Three Year Olds.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gordon, Ira J.; And Others

Games through which parents, family day-care centers, and large day-care centers can provide learning opportunities for children are presented. The primary aim of these activities is to encourage intellectual and language development. The sections of the book, which are not arranged by age, are as follows: Sorting and Matching Games, Building an…

Media-Educational Habitus of Future Educators in the Context of Education in Day-Care Centers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedrichs-Liesenkötter, Henrike

2015-01-01

This research explores these questions: (1) How are the forms of media-educational habitus of future educators shaped? (2) What conditions influence whether or not media education is done in day-care centers? The qualitative study consists of six semi-structured interviews with media education teachers in educator training, four focus group…

Socio-Spatial Practices in a Finnish Daycare Group for One- to Three-Year-Olds

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rutanen, Niina

2012-01-01

This qualitative case study approaches early childhood education and care practices from a socio-spatial point of view. One Finnish daycare group for one- to three-year-olds participated in the study. The ethnographic observations from the practices are analyzed together with the ECE practitioners' audio-recorded team meetings and video-elicited…

AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF 127 PRESCHOOL CHILDREN AT THEIR HOMES AND DAYCARE CENTERS IN OHIO: ENVIRONMENTAL PATHWAYS TO CIS- AND TRANS-PERMETHRIN EXPOSURE

EPA Science Inventory

The potential exposures of 127 preschool children to the pyrethroid insecticides, cis- and trans-permethrin, in their everyday environments were examined. Participants were recruited randomly from 127 homes and 16 daycare centers in six Ohio (OH) counties. Monitorin...

An Analysis of Allegations of Sexual Abuse in a Multi-Victim Day-Care Center Case.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bybee, Deborah; Mowbray, Carol T.

1993-01-01

This study applied criteria from Statement Validity Analysis (SVA) protocols to aggregate record review data of alleged sexual abuse of over 100 children in a day-care center. The use of SVA criteria supported the veritability of allegations in this case, with the data analysis reflecting consistency, logical structure, and spontaneity of…

Prevention of Fatherhood Disorders--Accompanying Early Father-Child Interaction in Day-Care Centers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lamour, Martine; Letronnier, Paulette

2003-01-01

Over the last fifteen years, increasing numbers of fathers have been attending medical or day-care centers for young children, traditionally "reserved" for mothers and babies. Thus the professionals who work there are able to take an active part in the "co-construction of the fathers" by accompanying their emerging fatherhood. The…

Screening for autism spectrum disorder in underserved communities: Early childcare providers as reporters.

PubMed

Janvier, Yvette M; Harris, Jill F; Coffield, Caroline N; Louis, Barbara; Xie, Ming; Cidav, Zuleyha; Mandell, David S

2016-04-01

Early diagnosis of autism typically is associated with earlier access to intervention and improved outcomes. Daycares and preschools largely have been ignored as possible venues for early identification. This may be especially important for minority children in the United States who are typically diagnosed with autism later than White children, limiting their access to early specialized interventions and possibly resulting in poorer outcomes. Early childcare providers within underserved communities completed autism screening tools for a sample of low-risk young children (n = 967) in their programs. Early childcare providers returned screening tools for 90% of the children for whom parental consent had been received. A total of 14% of children screened positive for autism spectrum disorder and 3% of the sample met criteria for autism spectrum disorder. Among those who screened positive, 34% were lost to follow-up. Findings suggest that early childcare providers can effectively screen young children for autism spectrum disorder in preschool/daycare settings, thus improving access to early diagnosis and reducing potential healthcare disparities among underserved populations. © The Author(s) 2015.

Early Vocabulary in Relation to Gender, Bilingualism, Type, and Duration of Childcare

PubMed Central

Stolarova, M.; Brielmann, A. A.; Wolf, C.; Rinker, T.; Burke, T; Baayen, H.

2016-01-01

This study investigates the predictive value of child-related and environmental characteristics for early lexical development. The German productive vocabulary of 51 2-year-olds (27 girls), assessed via parental report, was analyzed taking children’s gender, the type of early care they experienced, and their mono- versus bilingual language composition into consideration. The children were from an educationally homogeneous group of families and state-regulated daycare facilities with high structural quality. All investigated subgroups exhibited German vocabulary size within the expected normative range. Gender differences in vocabulary composition, but not in size, were observed. There were no general differences in vocabulary size or composition between the 2 care groups. An interaction between the predictors gender and care arrangement showed that girls without regular daycare experience before the age of 2 years had a somewhat larger vocabulary than all other investigated subgroups of children. The vocabulary size of the 2-year-old children in daycare correlated positively with the duration of their daycare experience prior to testing. The small subgroup of bilingual children investigated exhibited slightly lower but still normative German expressive vocabulary size and a different vocabulary composition compared to the monolingual children. This study expands current knowledge about relevant predictors of early vocabulary. It shows that in the absence of educational disadvantages the duration of early daycare experience of high structural quality is positively associated with vocabulary size but also points to the fact that environmental characteristics, such as type of care, might affect boys’ and girls’ early vocabulary in different ways. PMID:28127412

ENTEROPATHOGENS DETECTED IN A DAYCARE CENTER, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL: BACTERIA, VIRUS, AND PARASITE RESEARCH

PubMed Central

Castro, Edna Donizetti Rossi; Germini, Marcela Cristina Braga Yassaka; Mascarenhas, Joana D'Arc Pereira; Gabbay, Yvone Benchimol; de Lima, Ian Carlos Gomes; Lobo, Patrícia dos Santos; Fraga, Valéria Daltibari; Conceição, Luciana Moran; Machado, Ricardo Luiz Dantas; Rossit, Andréa Regina Baptista

2015-01-01

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and etiological profile of enteropathogens in children from a daycare center. Methods: From October 2010 to February 2011 stool samples from 100 children enrolled in a government daycare center in the municipality of São José do Rio Preto, in the state of São Paulo, were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 246 bacteria were isolated in 99% of the fecal samples; 129 were in the diarrheal group and 117 in the non-diarrheal group. Seventy-three strains of Escherichia coli were isolated, 19 of Enterobacter, one of Alcaligenes and one of Proteus. There were 14 cases of mixed colonization with Enterobacter and E. coli. Norovirus and Astrovirus were detected in children with clinical signs suggestive of diarrhea. These viruses were detected exclusively among children residing in urban areas. All fecal samples were negative for the presence of the rotavirus species A and C. The presence of Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana and hookworm was observed. A significant association was found between food consumption outside home and daycare center and the presence of intestinal parasites. Conclusions: For children of this daycare center, intestinal infection due to pathogens does not seem to have contributed to the occurrence of diarrhea or other intestinal symptoms. The observed differences may be due to the wide diversity of geographical, social and economic characteristics and the climate of Brazil, all of which have been reported as critical factors in the modulation of the frequency of different enteropathogens. PMID:25651323

Is Good Fit Related to Good Behaviour? Goodness of Fit between Daycare Teacher-Child Relationships, Temperament, and Prosocial Behaviour

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hipson, Will E.; Séguin, Daniel G.

2016-01-01

The Goodness-of-Fit model [Thomas, A., & Chess, S. (1977). Temperament and development. New York: Brunner/Mazel] proposes that a child's temperament interacts with the environment to influence child outcomes. In the past, researchers have shown how the association between the quality of the teacher-child relationship in daycare and child…

Hidden Criteria for Out-of-Home Day-Care Centre Admission in Pokhara, Nepal: A Longitudinal Observational Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nakahara, Shinji; Poudel, Krishna C.; Lopchan, Milan; Ichikawa, Masao; Poudel, Om R.; Poudel-Tandukar, Kalpana; Yoshida, Katsumi

2010-01-01

This longitudinal observational study evaluated whether admission priorities given to children on waiting lists for out-of-home day-care centres (DCCs), determined as being either an early or late admission to DCCs, are determined by actual childcare needs and are assigned to children of disadvantaged families, in public DCCs in Pokhara, Nepal,…

Pedagogical Work, Stress Regulation and Work-Related Well-Being among Early Childhood Professionals in Integrated Special Day-Care Groups

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nislin, Mari A.; Sajaniemi, Nina K.; Sims, Margaret; Suhonen, Eira; Maldonado Montero, Enrique F.; Hirvonen, Ari; Hyttinen, Sirpa

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between early childhood professionals' (ECPs) stress regulation (using salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase [AA] measurements), work engagement and the quality of their pedagogical work in integrated special day-care groups. Participants were 89 ECPs from 21 integrated special day-care…

Quality of Care at Home and in Daycare and Social Behaviour in Early Childhood

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shuper Engelhard, Einat; Klein, Pnina S.; Yablon, Yaacov B.

2014-01-01

An attempt was made in the present study to identify mothers' and caregivers' teaching (mediation) behaviour in relation to toddlers' social behaviour. Participants were 103 toddlers, two- to four-year olds, their mothers, and 28 caregivers at 16 public daycare centres in Israel. Two observations were carried out, one in toddlers' homes and the…

Positive Highlights on Quality Daycare for Children: A North West of Ireland Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Hara, Maureen

2010-01-01

This study (2006-2007) sought to explore and examine whether the provision of full daycare improves the quality of life for children and their parents. There are now 60.8% of women employed in the workforce, according to the Central Statistics Office (2008). This means many changes for children, parents and families. Twenty-seven childcare…

Alkylsulfonic acid phenylesters (ASEs, Mesamoll®) in dust samples of German residences and daycare centers (LUPE 3).

PubMed

Fromme, Hermann; Schwarzbauer, Jan; Lahrz, Thomas; Kraft, Martin; Fembacher, Ludwig

2017-04-01

For decades, plasticizers have been produced in high quantities to improve the flexibility and durability of products. One possible replacement product is alkylsulfonic acid phenylesters (ASEs), marketed as Mesamoll ® . This study aimed to quantify the ASE dust contamination of residences and daycare centers to obtain insight into the recent exposure situation. ASEs were quantified in dust samples collected from 25 residences and 25 daycare centers using GC/MS measurements. Median (95th percentile) values of the sum of tetra- to heptadecylphenylesters are higher in daycare centers, with a value of 19.6mg/kg (216mg/kg), compared to residences, with a value of 7.6mg/kg (171mg/kg). A daily non-dietary intake of 0.08 and 0.86μg/kg b.w., respectively, was observed using the median and 95th percentile values obtained from dust samples. These levels are 1250 and 115 times below a previously set temporary tolerable daily intake value. Nevertheless, the fact that basic data on toxicity and exposure via other pathways are limited or unavailable at present has to be considered. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

WITHDRAWN: Day care for pre-school children.

PubMed

Zoritch, Bozhena; Roberts, Ian; Oakley, Ann

2016-10-11

The debate about how, where and by whom young children should be looked after is one which has occupied much social policy and media attention in recent years. Mothers undertake most of the care of young children. Internationally, out-of-home day-care provision ranges widely. These different levels of provision are not simply a response to different levels of demand for day-care, but reflect cultural and economic interests concerning the welfare of children, the need to promote mothers' participation in paid work, and the importance of socialising children into society's values. At a time when a decline in family values is held responsible for a range of social problems, the day-care debate has a special prominence. To quantify the effects of out-of-home day-care for preschool children on educational, health and welfare outcomes for children and their families. Randomised controlled trials of day-care for pre-school children were identified using electronic databases, hand searches of relevant literature, and contact with authors. Studies were included in the review if the intervention involved the provision of non-parental day care for children under 5 years of age, and the evaluation design was that of a randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trial. A total of eight trials were identified after examining 920 abstracts and 19 books. The trials were assessed for methodological quality. Day-care increases children's IQ, and has beneficial effects on behavioural development and school achievement. Long-term follow up demonstrates increased employment, lower teenage pregnancy rates, higher socio-economic status and decreased criminal behaviour. There are positive effects on mothers' education, employment and interaction with children. Effects on fathers have not been examined. Few studies look at a range of outcomes spanning the health, education and welfare domains. Most of the trials combined non-parental day-care with some element of parent training or education (mostly targeted at mothers); they did not disentangle the possible effects of these two interventions. The trials had other significant methodological weaknesses, pointing to the importance of improving on study design in this field. All the trials were carried out in the USA. Day care has beneficial effect on children's development, school success and adult life patterns. To date, all randomised trials have been conducted among disadvantaged populations in the USA. The extent to which the results are generaliseable to other cultures and socioeconomic groups has yet to be evaluated.

[Prevention of Obesity and Promotion of Healthy Nutrition in Children by a Kindergarten-Based Intervention: An Evaluation Study].

PubMed

Jahn, I; Böttcher, S

2015-09-01

This outcome evaluation study has investigated different diet concepts in day-care centres and their effects on health-related dietary behaviour of children and their families. No advantage of a certain approach to manage food and diet-related activities in day-care centres could be shown. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Occupational Well-Being and Stress among Early Childhood Professionals: The Use of an Innovative Strategy to Measure Stress Reactivity in the Workplace

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nislin, M.; Sajaniemi, N.; Sims, M.; Suhonen, E.; Maldonado, E. F.; Hyttinen, S.; Hirvonen, A.

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine early childhood professionals' (ECPs) work engagement, burnout and stress regulation in integrated special day-care groups. The participants consisted of 89 ECPs from 21 integrated special day-care groups in Helsinki, Finland. ECPs' work-related well-being was assessed using self-report questionnaires that…

The Good-Bye Window: A Year in the Life of a Day-Care Center.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Harriet N.

Started 25 years ago by a group of parents in Madison, Wisconsin, the Red Caboose is one of the oldest independent day-care centers in the United States. This book recounts observations of the activities at the center for 1 year, exploring what makes a good day care center successful and what obstacles a center is up against. Interspersed among…

Reflective Dialogues in Community Music Engagement: An Exploratory Experience in a Singapore Nursing Home and Day-Care Centre for Senior Citizens

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lum, Chee-Hoo

2011-01-01

This study documents a reflective journey of a community music programme initiated by a university music education faculty member and an occupational therapist within the setting of a nursing home and day-care centre in Singapore. Weekly music interaction sessions in conjunction with reminiscence therapy were conducted over a period of five…

Patterns of gender-role behaviour in children attending traditional and non-traditional day-care centres.

PubMed

Cole, H J; Zucker, K J; Bradley, S J

1982-08-01

Using a sex-typed free-play task and the Draw-a-Person test, the gender-role behaviour of children attending a day-care centre whose staff adhered to a "non-sexist" child-rearing philosophy was compared to the gender-role behaviour of children attending a more traditional day-care center. Parental provision of sex-typed and neutral toys and approval of cross-sex role behaviour was also assessed. On both measures, the two groups of children showed culturally typical patterns of gender-role behaviour. The parents of the two groups of children were generally similar in terms of the kinds of toys they provided and in their attitudes toward the expression of cross-sex role behaviour. Potential explanations for the inability to demonstrate effects of the "non-sexist" child-rearing philosophy were discussed.

How a Young Child Learns How to Take Part in Mealtimes in a Japanese Day-Care Center: A Longitudinal Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ishiguro, Hiroaki

2016-01-01

This research is a longitudinal, ethnographic study that focuses on mealtimes with one boy from 9 to 78 months of age in a day-care center in Japan. It looks at routine interactions between a child, his nursery teachers, and the environment, which is a shared and mutually available communicative space between participants in collaboration. The aim…

Perspective of Parents and Caregivers on the Influence of Full-Time Day-Care Attendance on Young Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Undheim, Anne Mari; Drugli, May Britt

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to explore the experience of parents and caregivers regarding young children in day care. The tiredness of children after day-care attendance was explored. In the autumn of 2009, 41 parents and 35 caregivers of children aged 1.5 years or younger living in the city of Trondheim and nearby communities were assessed using a…

Affordances in the home environment for motor development: Validity and reliability for the use in daycare setting.

PubMed

Müller, Alessandra Bombarda; Valentini, Nadia Cristina; Bandeira, Paulo Felipe Ribeiro

2017-05-01

The range of stimuli provided by physical space, toys and care practices contributes to the motor, cognitive and social development of children. However, assessing the quality of child education environments is a challenge, and can be considered a health promotion initiative. This study investigated the validity of the criterion, content, construct and reliability of the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development - Infant Scale (AHEMD-IS), version 3-18 months, for the use in daycare settings. Content validation was conducted with the participation of seven motor development and health care experts; and, face validity by 20 specialists in health and education. The results indicate the suitability of the adapted AHEMD-IS, evidencing its validity for the daycare setting a potential tool to assess the opportunities that the collective context offers to child development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Alternative work schedules for female pharmacists.

PubMed

Mason, N A; Perry, W R; Ryan, M L

1991-01-01

The impact of the increased proportion of women in pharmacy is discussed, and two leadership positions for which part-time work schedules were implemented are described. Issues associated with the increased representation of women include pharmacist shortages, loss of future leaders, decreased staff productivity related to inadequate day-care services, and a reduced earning potential of pharmacists. Many of these problems can be addressed by altering benefit packages and work schedules to enable employees to raise children while continuing to work. Specific strategies include legislation, day-care programs, flex time and flex scheduling, telecommuting, and the creation of alternative work schedules or permanent part-time positions. At the University of Michigan, a part-time position that combines faculty and clinical responsibilities has been in place since 1988. At The Washington Hospital Center, one of the three assistant director of pharmacy positions is part-time. The women in both positions have met or exceeded job performance requirements while raising a family. Issues raised by the increasing number of female pharmacists must be addressed by the profession. Part-time work schedules are one strategy for enabling female pharmacists to meet both their family and career responsibilities.

Effects of an 8-Week Aerobic Dance Program on Health-Related Fitness in Patients With Schizophrenia.

PubMed

Cheng, Shu-Li; Sun, Huey-Fang; Yeh, Mei-Ling

2017-12-01

Both psychiatric symptoms and the side effects of medication significantly affect patients with schizophrenia. These effects frequently result in a sedentary lifestyle and weight gain, which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death. This study developed an aerobic dance program for patients with schizophrenia and then evaluated the effect of this program on health-related fitness outcomes. An experimental research design was used. Sixty patients with schizophrenia were recruited from a daycare ward and rehabilitation center at a psychiatric hospital in Taiwan. Paticipants were assigned randomly into an experimental group, which received the 8-week aerobic dance program intervention, and a control group, which received no intervention. All of the participants were assessed in terms of the outcome variables, which included bodyweight, body mass index, muscular endurance, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory endurance. These variables were measured before the intervention (pretest) as well as at 8 weeks (posttest) and 12 weeks (follow-up) after the intervention. This study used a generalized linear model with a generalized estimating equation method to account for the dependence of repeated measurements and to explore the effects of the intervention on health-related fitness outcomes. Twenty-six participants were in the experimental group, and 28 were in the control group. Significant between-group differences were observed at posttest and in the follow-up for all of the health-related fitness outcomes with the exception of muscular endurance. This study suggests that an 8-week aerobic dance program may be an effective intervention in patients with schizophrenia in terms of improving bodyweight, body mass index, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory endurance for a period of at least 4 months. Furthermore, although muscular endurance was postively affected during the short-term period, the benefits did not extend into the follow-up examination. On the basis of these findings, aerobic dance is recommended as a nonpharmacological intervention for patients with schizophrenia who are in daycare or rehabilitation settings.

Effectiveness of fortification of drinking water with iron and vitamin C in the reduction of anemia and improvement of nutritional status in children attending day-care centers in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

PubMed

Rocha, Daniela da Silva; Capanema, Flávio Diniz; Netto, Michele Pereira; de Almeida, Carlos Alberto Nogueira; Franceschini, Sylvia do Carmo Castro; Lamounier, Joel Alves

2011-12-01

Because of the high prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia in Brazil, individual control measures tend to be ineffective, and fortification of foods with iron is considered the most effective method to fight anemia. To evaluate the effectiveness of fortification of drinking water with iron and vitamin C in the reduction of anemia in children in day-care centers in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This before-and-after study evaluated 318 children aged 6 to 74 months. Identification data and data on socioeconomic variables were collected; anthropometric and biochemical measurements were performed before and after 5 months of fortification of water with 5 mg of elemental iron and 50 mg of ascorbic acid per liter. The fortified water was used for drinking and cooking at the day-care center. Wilcoxon's nonparametric test was used to evaluate the differences in continuous variables, and McNemar's test was used to compare the prevalence rates of anemia. The prevalence of anemia decreased significantly from 29.3% before fortification to 7.9% at the end of the study, with a significant increase in hemoglobin levels. Reductions in the prevalence rates of stunting and underweight were observed. Fortification of water with iron and vitamin C significantly reduced the prevalence of anemia and improved nutritional status among children attending day-care centers.

Household-based costs and benefits of vaccinating healthy children in daycare against influenza virus: results from a pilot study.

PubMed

Pisu, Maria; Meltzer, Martin I; Hurwitz, Eugene S; Haber, Michael

2005-01-01

Vaccinating children against influenza virus may reduce infections in immunised children and household contacts, thereby reducing the household-based cost associated with respiratory illnesses. To evaluate the impact of influenza virus vaccination of daycare children on costs of respiratory illnesses of the children and their household contacts from the household and societal perspective. Cost analysis of data from a randomised controlled trial covering the period November to April of 1996-7 and 1998-9. Children (127 in 1996-7 and 133 in 1998-9) from daycare centres in Californian (USA) naval bases received influenza virus vaccine (inactivated) or hepatitis A virus vaccination. Direct and indirect costs (1997 and 1999 US dollars) of respiratory illnesses in households of vaccinated and not vaccinated daycare children, excluding the cost of vaccination. There were no statistically significant differences in household costs of respiratory illness between households with or without influenza virus-vaccinated children (USD 635 vs USD 492: p = 0.98 [1996-7]; USD 412.70 vs USD 499.50: p = 0.42 [1998-9]). In 1996-7, adult and 5- to 17-year-old contacts of vaccinated children had lower household costs than contacts of unvaccinated children (USD 58.50 vs USD 83.20, p = 0.01 and USD 32.80 vs USD 59.50, p = 0.04, respectively), while vaccinated children 0-4 years old had higher household costs than unvaccinated children in the same age group (USD 383 vs USD 236, p = 0.05). In 1998-9, there were no differences within individual age groups. Results from societal perspective were similar. Overall, from both the household and societal perspectives, there were no economic benefits to households from vaccinating daycare children against influenza virus. However, we found some over-time inconsistency in results; this should be considered if changing recommendations about routine influenza virus vaccination of healthy children. Our study size may limit the generalisability of the results.

Milk- and solid-feeding practices and daycare attendance are associated with differences in bacterial diversity, predominant communities, and metabolic and immune function of the infant gut microbiome.

PubMed

Thompson, Amanda L; Monteagudo-Mera, Andrea; Cadenas, Maria B; Lampl, Michelle L; Azcarate-Peril, M A

2015-01-01

The development of the infant intestinal microbiome in response to dietary and other exposures may shape long-term metabolic and immune function. We examined differences in the community structure and function of the intestinal microbiome between four feeding groups, exclusively breastfed infants before introduction of solid foods (EBF), non-exclusively breastfed infants before introduction of solid foods (non-EBF), EBF infants after introduction of solid foods (EBF+S), and non-EBF infants after introduction of solid foods (non-EBF+S), and tested whether out-of-home daycare attendance was associated with differences in relative abundance of gut bacteria. Bacterial 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was performed on 49 stool samples collected longitudinally from a cohort of 9 infants (5 male, 4 female). PICRUSt metabolic inference analysis was used to identify metabolic impacts of feeding practices on the infant gut microbiome. Sequencing data identified significant differences across groups defined by feeding and daycare attendance. Non-EBF and daycare-attending infants had higher diversity and species richness than EBF and non-daycare attending infants. The gut microbiome of EBF infants showed increased proportions of Bifidobacterium and lower abundance of Bacteroidetes and Clostridiales than non-EBF infants. PICRUSt analysis indicated that introduction of solid foods had a marginal impact on the microbiome of EBF infants (24 enzymes overrepresented in EBF+S infants). In contrast, over 200 bacterial gene categories were overrepresented in non-EBF+S compared to non-EBF infants including several bacterial methyl-accepting chemotaxis proteins (MCP) involved in signal transduction. The identified differences between EBF and non-EBF infants suggest that breast milk may provide the gut microbiome with a greater plasticity (despite having a lower phylogenetic diversity) that eases the transition into solid foods.

The role of probiotics and prebiotics in the prevention of infections in child day-care centres.

PubMed

Weizman, Z

2015-01-01

Infants and children attending day-care centres demonstrate a notably higher risk of gastrointestinal as well as of respiratory tract infections. The present short review evaluates various well-controlled clinical trials analysing the effect of probiotics and prebiotics in the prevention of such infections. In most of the 12 studies identified, probiotic supplementation was found to be a safe and effective therapeutic tool in preventing gastrointestinal and respiratory infection in this population.

Identification of Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Second Year of Life at Day-Care Centres by Day-Care Staff: Step One in the Development of a Short Observation List

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Larsen, Kenneth; Aasland, Astrid; Diseth, Trond H.

2018-01-01

Early symptoms of ASD develop through the second year of life, making a stable ASD diagnosis possible at 24 months of age. However, in general, children with ASD have their diagnosis at an older age. This retrospective study, including 30 children with ASD and 30 control children aged 3-6 years, explored the possibility of developing a short…

Daycare Center Attendance Buffers the Effects of Maternal Authoritarian Parenting Style on Physical Aggression in Children

PubMed Central

Muñoz, José M.; Braza, Paloma; Carreras, Rosario; Braza, Francisco; Azurmendi, Aitziber; Pascual-Sagastizábal, Eider; Cardas, Jaione; Sánchez-Martín, José R.

2017-01-01

A maternal authoritarian style has been related to the development of physical aggression during childhood and later future social problems; however, not too many studies have detected other than individual or family factors that may buffer this maternal effect. This work examines whether daycare center attendance may moderate the relationships between a mother authoritarian style and physical aggression. The study sample was 72 (40 girls) kindergarten children from Spain. Parents were asked to complete two questionnaires focused on individual family characteristics and parenting styles. At age 5, children physical aggression was assessed by direct observation at playtime; aggression scores at 6 was obtained by a peer-rated questionnaire. A least squared multiple regression was performed after controlling for children’s level of physical aggression at 5, child sex and siblings. A positive contribution of maternal authoritarian style on physical aggression was detected. Daycare center attendance appears to attenuate the effect of the mother’s authoritarian style on physical aggression, only in boys. PMID:28377733

Daycare Center Attendance Buffers the Effects of Maternal Authoritarian Parenting Style on Physical Aggression in Children.

PubMed

Muñoz, José M; Braza, Paloma; Carreras, Rosario; Braza, Francisco; Azurmendi, Aitziber; Pascual-Sagastizábal, Eider; Cardas, Jaione; Sánchez-Martín, José R

2017-01-01

A maternal authoritarian style has been related to the development of physical aggression during childhood and later future social problems; however, not too many studies have detected other than individual or family factors that may buffer this maternal effect. This work examines whether daycare center attendance may moderate the relationships between a mother authoritarian style and physical aggression. The study sample was 72 (40 girls) kindergarten children from Spain. Parents were asked to complete two questionnaires focused on individual family characteristics and parenting styles. At age 5, children physical aggression was assessed by direct observation at playtime; aggression scores at 6 was obtained by a peer-rated questionnaire. A least squared multiple regression was performed after controlling for children's level of physical aggression at 5, child sex and siblings. A positive contribution of maternal authoritarian style on physical aggression was detected. Daycare center attendance appears to attenuate the effect of the mother's authoritarian style on physical aggression, only in boys.

Network Upgrade for the SLC: PEP II Network

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Crane, M.; Call, M.; Clark, S.

2011-09-09

The PEP-II control system required a new network to support the system functions. This network, called CTLnet, is an FDDI/Ethernet based network using only TCP/IP protocols. An upgrade of the SLC Control System micro communications to use TCP/IP and SLCNET would allow all PEP-II control system nodes to use TCP/IP. CTLnet is private and separate from the SLAC public network. Access to nodes and control system functions is provided by multi-homed application servers with connections to both the private CTLnet and the SLAC public network. Monitoring and diagnostics are provided using a dedicated system. Future plans and current status informationmore » is included.« less

Weather daily variation in winter and its effect on behavior and affective states in day-care children

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciucci, Enrica; Calussi, Pamela; Menesini, Ersilia; Mattei, Alessandra; Petralli, Martina; Orlandini, Simone

2011-05-01

This study aimed to analyze the impact of winter weather conditions on young children's behavior and affective states by examining a group of 61 children attending day-care centers in Florence (Italy). Participants were 33 males, 28 females and their 11 teachers. The mean age of the children at the beginning of the observation period was 24.1 months. The day-care teachers observed the children's behavioral and emotional states during the morning before their sleeping time and filled in a questionnaire for each baby five times over a winter period of 3 weeks. Air temperature, relative humidity, air pressure and solar radiation data were collected every 15 min from a weather station located in the city center of Florence. At the same time, air temperature and relative humidity data were collected in the classroom and in the garden of each day-care center. We used multilevel linear models to evaluate the extent to which children's emotional and behavioral states could be predicted by weather conditions, controlling for child characteristics (gender and age). The data showed that relative humidity and solar radiation were the main predictors of the children's emotional and behavioral states. The outdoor humidity had a significant positive effect on frustration, sadness and aggression; solar radiation had a significant negative effect only on sadness, suggesting that a sunny winter day makes children more cheerful. The results are discussed in term of implications for parents and teachers to improve children's ecological environment.

Weather daily variation in winter and its effect on behavior and affective states in day-care children.

PubMed

Ciucci, Enrica; Calussi, Pamela; Menesini, Ersilia; Mattei, Alessandra; Petralli, Martina; Orlandini, Simone

2011-05-01

This study aimed to analyze the impact of winter weather conditions on young children's behavior and affective states by examining a group of 61 children attending day-care centers in Florence (Italy). Participants were 33 males, 28 females and their 11 teachers. The mean age of the children at the beginning of the observation period was 24.1 months. The day-care teachers observed the children's behavioral and emotional states during the morning before their sleeping time and filled in a questionnaire for each baby five times over a winter period of 3 weeks. Air temperature, relative humidity, air pressure and solar radiation data were collected every 15 min from a weather station located in the city center of Florence. At the same time, air temperature and relative humidity data were collected in the classroom and in the garden of each day-care center. We used multilevel linear models to evaluate the extent to which children's emotional and behavioral states could be predicted by weather conditions, controlling for child characteristics (gender and age). The data showed that relative humidity and solar radiation were the main predictors of the children's emotional and behavioral states. The outdoor humidity had a significant positive effect on frustration, sadness and aggression; solar radiation had a significant negative effect only on sadness, suggesting that a sunny winter day makes children more cheerful. The results are discussed in term of implications for parents and teachers to improve children's ecological environment.

Intake of protein, calcium and sodium in public child day care centers

PubMed Central

Longo-Silva, Giovana; Toloni, Maysa Helena de A.; de Menezes, Risia Cristina E.; Temteo, Tatiane Leocádio; Oliveira, Maria Alice A.; Asakura, Leiko; Costa, Emília Chagas; Taddei, José Augusto de A. C.

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To assess calcium, protein and sodium intake, of children that attend public day-care centers and to compare it with the recommended one. METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive study in seven public day care centers of São Paulo city, Southeast Brazil, which enrolled 366 children between 12 and 36 months of age. The data collection occurred between September and December 2010. Each day care center was evaluated for three non-consecutive days, totaling 42 days and 210 meals. Dietary intake was assessed by a direct food weighing method. For the nutritional calculation, DietWin(r) Profissional 2.0 was used, and the adequacy was calculated according to the recommendations of the National School Feeding Program for energy, protein, calcium and sodium. The calcium/protein relation was also calculated, as well as calcium density (mg/1,000kcal). RESULTS: The energy (406.4kcal), protein (18.2g) and calcium (207.6mg) consumption did not reach the recommended values ​​in all the evaluated day care centers. Sodium intake exceeded up to three times the recommendation. The calcium/protein ratio of 11.7mg/g was less than the adequate one (20mg/g). CONCLUSIONS: There was inadequacy of calcium, protein and sodium dietary intake, in children attending public day-care centers. PMID:25119750

Effectiveness of a community-based program for suicide prevention among elders with early-stage dementia: A controlled observational study.

PubMed

Kim, Jong-Pill; Yang, Jinhyang

The purpose of this study was to develop a small-group-focused suicide prevention program for elders with early-stage dementia and to assess its effects. This was a quasi-experimental study with a control group pretest-posttest design. A total of 62 elders diagnosed with early-stage dementia who were receiving care services at nine daycare centers in J City Korea participated in this study. The experimental group participated in the suicide prevention program twice a week for 5 weeks with a pretest and two posttests The developed suicide prevention program had a significant effect on the perceived health status, social support, depression, and suicidal ideation of elders with early-stage dementia. Nurses should integrate risk factors such as depression and protective factors such as health status and social support into a suicide prevention program. This community-based program in geriatric nursing practice can be effective in preventing suicide among elders with early-stage dementia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Epidemiological investigation of a food-borne gastroenteritis outbreak caused by Norwalk-like virus in 30 day-care centres.

PubMed

Götz, Hannelore; de Jong, Birgitta; Lindbäck, Johan; Parment, Per Arne; Hedlund, Kjell Olof; Torvén, Maria; Ekdahl, Karl

2002-01-01

In March 1999, an outbreak of gastroenteritis occurred affecting 30 day-care centres served by the same caterer. A retrospective cohort study was performed in 13 randomly selected day-care centres to determine the source and mode of transmission. Electron microscopy and PCR were used to verify the diagnosis. The overall attack rate (AR) was 37% (195/524): 30% in children and 62% in adults. Modified by the age of the patient, eating pumpkin salad served on 1 March was associated with becoming an early case (odds ratio = 3.9; 95% confidence interval 1.8-8.8). No significant association was found between food consumption and becoming a late case. The primary food-borne AR was 27% and the secondary AR was 14%. The same genotype of Norwalk-like virus was found in 5 cases and in 1 ill and 1 asymptomatic food-handler. Contamination by 1 of the food-handlers seems the most likely route of spread of the virus and underlines the importance of strict hygienic routines.

Daily consumption of foods and nutrients from institutional and home sources among young children attending two contrasting day-care centers in Guatemala City.

PubMed

Vossenaar, M; Jaramillo, P M; Soto-Méndez, M-J; Panday, B; Hamelinck, V; Bermúdez, O I; Doak, C M; Mathias, P; Solomons, N W

2012-12-01

Adequate nutrition is critical to child development and institutions such as day-care centers could potentially complement children's diets to achieve optimal daily intakes. The aim of the study was to describe the full-day diet of children, examining and contrasting the relative contribution of home-derived versus institutional energy and nutrient sources. The present comparison should be considered in the domain of a case-study format. The diets of 33, 3-6 y old children attending low-income day-care centers serving either 3 or a single meal were examined. The home-diet was assessed by means of 3 non-consecutive 24-hr recalls. Estimated energy and nutrient intakes at the centers and at home were assessed and related to Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI). Nutrient densities, critical densities and main sources of nutrients were computed. We observed that in children attending the day-care center serving three meals, home-foods contributed less than half the daily energy (47.7%) and between 29.9% and 53.5% of daily nutrients. In children receiving only lunch outside the home, energy contribution from the home was 83.9% and 304 kcal lower than for children receiving 3 meals. Furthermore, between 59.0% and 94.8% of daily nutrients were provided at home. Daily energy, nutrient intakes and nutrient densities were well above the nutrient requirements for this age group, and particularly high for vitamin A. The overall dietary variety was superior in the situation of greater contribution of home fare, but overall the nutrient density and adequacy of the aggregate intakes did not differ in any important manner.

Effective preventive interventions to support parents of young children: Illustrations from the Video-feedback Intervention to promote Positive Parenting and Sensitive Discipline (VIPP-SD).

PubMed

Juffer, Femmie; Struis, Estelle; Werner, Claudia; Bakermans-Kranenburg, Marian J

2017-01-01

Secure attachment relationships are essential for children's current and later development. From attachment theory and research, it can be derived that sensitive parenting is the key to positive parent-child relationships. Is it possible to design effective interventions to enhance sensitive parenting? In this article, we review elements that are crucial for effective attachment-based interventions, and we proceed with illustrations from the Video-feedback Intervention to promote Positive Parenting and Sensitive Discipline (VIPP-SD). We describe how this intervention program was developed, how it has been implemented in practice in different types of families and in daycare settings, and how effective the program is. We conclude that intervention programs like the VIPP-SD could play an important role in the community by serving families in need of parenting support.

Parents perception of weight status of Mexican preschool children using different tools.

PubMed

Souto-Gallardo, M C; Jiménez-Cruz, A; Bacardí-Gascón, M

2011-12-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of parents to estimate the weight status of preschool children attending the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) day-care centers using three different tools. A total of 100 parent-child pairs attending to all the existing IMSS day-care centers in Ensenada (n = 9) completed a questionnaire on the perception of children's weight status using verbal description, sketches, and pictures. Chi squared test and univariate logistic regression was applied to assess the difference in perception between the tools used, the factors associated with the weight status perception and to identify predictors of parental underestimation of their child's weight. The sample size was estimated for a significance level of 0.05 with statistical power of 80%. No significant differences were found in the perception of weight status using different tools. The parents' underestimation of the child's weight status ranged from 51 to 59%, this percentage jumps to 79 to 84% in overweight children and 82 to 91% in obese children. Being a young mother and having a daughter increased the risk of underestimation. Higher odds of underestimation were found in > 2BMI z-score. The high underestimation found in this study shows that the ability of parents in signaling an alert to prevent childhood obesity might be highly reduced and preventive health programs should include increasing the weight status perception.

Factors influencing growth and intestinal parasitic infections in preschoolers attending philanthropic daycare centers in Salvador, Northeast Region of Brazil.

PubMed

Lander, Rebecca L; Lander, Alastair G; Houghton, Lisa; Williams, Sheila M; Costa-Ribeiro, Hugo; Barreto, Daniel L; Mattos, Angela P; Gibson, Rosalind S

2012-11-01

Poor growth and intestinal parasitic infections are widespread in disadvantaged urban children. This cross-sectional study assessed factors influencing poor growth and intestinal parasites in 376 children aged three to six years in daycare centers in Salvador, in the Northeast Region of Brazil. Data was obtained from seven daycare centers on child weight, height, socio-economic status, health and intestinal parasites in stool samples. Prevalence of moderate underweight (< -1SD > -2SD), wasting and stunting was 12%, 16% and 6% respectively. Socioeconomic status, birth order, and maternal weight were predictors of poor anthropometric status. Almost 30% of children were infected with more than one intestinal parasite. Helminths (17.8%), notably Trichuris trichiura (12%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (10.5%), and protozoan Giardia duodenalis (13%) were the most common types of parasites detected. One percent of children had hookworm and Cryptosporidium sp. and 25% had non-pathogenic protozoan cysts. Boys from families with very low socio-economic status had lower linear growth and presented a greater risk of helminth infection. Deworming is considered an alternative for reducing the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in this age group.

Child-feeding practices and child overweight perceptions of family day care providers caring for preschool-aged children.

PubMed

Brann, Lynn S

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the attitudes, feeding practices, and child overweight perceptions of family day-care providers caring for preschool-aged children and to examine whether child feeding practices differ based on child weight perceptions. One hundred twenty-three family day-care providers participated in this cross-sectional exploratory study and completed a self-administered survey measuring feeding attitudes and practices from the Child Feeding Questionnaire, demographic information, and self-reported height and weight. Participants selected a cut point to identify childhood overweight using male and female child figure drawings. Participants reported a high level of responsibility in feeding and monitoring of children's food intake. Differences were found in child feeding practices between family day-care providers based on their child weight perceptions for girls. Providers who selected the smaller girl figures as the cut point for overweight were more concerned about the children becoming overweight and used more restriction in child feeding compared with the providers who selected the larger girl figures. Health professionals should continue working with this population to promote positive feeding environments. Copyright 2010 National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevention of secondary household transmission during Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli outbreaks.

PubMed

Tokuda, K; Yahata, Y; Sunagawa, T

2016-10-01

Prevention of secondary household transmission of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is important in outbreak settings. We examined factors contributing to secondary household transmission during STEC outbreaks in daycare centres in Japan. Suspected STEC outbreaks in daycare centres were identified by the National Epidemiological Surveillance of Infectious Diseases. Questionnaires were sent to local health centres that responded to outbreaks. Secondary household transmission rates were calculated, and factors affecting secondary household transmission rate were analysed by multilevel analysis. The secondary household transmission rates in 16 outbreaks ranged from 0% to 34·4% (median 4·4%). The highest rate (23·0%) was observed in siblings aged 6-9 years, and the infection rate was significantly higher for mothers than for fathers and grandparents (P < 0·05). Using multilevel analysis, the following variables were selected in the best model: information provided face-to-face (vs. letter or telephone) to families of children in daycare centres (at initial response), STEC type and lag time (days) between onset and providing information. Early response and hygiene education by visiting local health centre staff may be effective measures to prevent secondary household transmission in STEC outbreaks. Hygiene education should be emphasized for children aged 6-9 years, as well as for younger children.

An Analysis of Children Left Unattended in Parked Motor Vehicles in Brazil

PubMed Central

Costa, Driely; Grundstein, Andrew

2016-01-01

Our study investigates the incidence of children left unattended in parked motor vehicles in Brazil. These events have been widely explored in the United States but less so abroad, and never in Brazil. Over the period from 2006 to 2015, we collected data from news reports on 31 cases, including 21 fatalities. The circumstances mostly involved a caregiver, especially a parent, forgetting the child (71%), but cases also included the child being intentionally left in the vehicle (23%) or gaining access to the vehicle (3%). Children tended to be forgotten more frequently in fatal cases (86%), particularly on the way to daycare, than non-fatal incidents where circumstances were more evenly distributed between forgetting (40%) and being intentionally left behind (50%). Incidents occurred throughout the country but mostly in the southeastern region near the city of São Paulo. Additionally, the danger for children is present year-round as we observed cases in every season, albeit with a peak in the summer. This heat-related hazard is not well recognized across Brazil and we recommend increasing awareness through education. Further, given the high percentage of cases involving parents forgetting to leave their children at daycare, we recommend arrangements between daycare providers and parents to communicate when a child does not attend as expected. PMID:27399747

Impact of caregivers' education regarding respiratory infections on the health status of day-care children: a randomized trial.

PubMed

Alexandrino, Ana S; Santos, Rita; Melo, Cristina; Bastos, José M

2016-10-01

Acute respiratory infections are the most common illness in childhood, and caregivers often make an excessive use of medication and medical consultations. It is vital to design and implement educational interventions in order to minimize the burden of the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a health education session (HES) about respiratory infections on the indicators of individual health and health care utilization of day-care children. Randomized controlled trial in 10 day-care centres in Porto, including caregivers (parents or legal tutors) of children under 3 years of age. Children's caregivers were randomly distributed into an Intervention Group (IG), who attended a HES, and a Comparison Group (CG). Children's indicators of individual health and health care utilization were evaluated in both groups, during the month after HES. Children whose caregivers attended to the HES had fewer lower respiratory tract infections (IG = 5.8%; CG = 19.0%; P = 0.050) and fewer acute otitis media (IG = 9.5%; CG = 27.0%; P = 0.030), as well as fewer medical consultations (IG = 38.5% versus CG = 61.9%; P = 0.015) and less antibiotic consumption (IG = 11.5% versus CG = 29.5%; P = 0.022). They were also less absent from day care (IG = 21 days versus CG = 59 days; P = 0.037) and their caregivers were less absent from work (IG = 15 days versus CG = 44 days; P = 0.046). Caregivers who attended HES made more use of nasal irrigation (IG = 79.6% versus CG = 53.3%; P = 0.011). The HES about respiratory infections has positively influenced the indicators of individual health and health care utilization of children attending day-care centres in Porto. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Molecular epidemiology of Escherichia coli O157:H7 strains by bacteriophage lambda restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis: application to a multistate foodborne outbreak and a day-care center cluster.

PubMed

Samadpour, M; Grimm, L M; Desai, B; Alfi, D; Ongerth, J E; Tarr, P I

1993-12-01

Genomic DNAs prepared from 168 isolates of Escherichia coli O157:H7 were analyzed for restriction fragment length polymorphisms on Southern blots probed with bacteriophage lambda DNA. The isolates analyzed included strains from a recent large multistate outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infection associated with consumption of poorly cooked beef in restaurants, a day-care center cluster, and temporally and geographically unrelated isolates. E. coli O157:H7 isolates recovered from the incriminated meat and from 61 (96.8%) of 63 patients from Washington and Nevada possessed identical lambda restriction fragment length patterns. The lambda restriction fragment length polymorphisms observed in 11 (91.7%) of 12 day-care center patients were identical, but they differed from that of the strain associated with the multistate outbreak. E. coli O157:H7 from 42 patients temporally or geographically unrelated to either cluster of infection possessed unique and different lambda restriction fragment length patterns, except for paired isolates from three separate clusters of infection. These data demonstrate that the hybridization of DNA digests of E. coli O157:H7 with radiolabelled bacteriophage lambda DNA can be a useful, stable, and discriminatory epidemiologic tool for analyzing the linkage between strains of E. coli O157:H7.

Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Indicators of Early Immune Stimulation: A Childhood Leukemia International Consortium Study

PubMed Central

Rudant, Jérémie; Lightfoot, Tracy; Urayama, Kevin Y.; Petridou, Eleni; Dockerty, John D.; Magnani, Corrado; Milne, Elizabeth; Spector, Logan G.; Ashton, Lesley J.; Dessypris, Nikolaos; Kang, Alice Y.; Miller, Margaret; Rondelli, Roberto; Simpson, Jill; Stiakaki, Eftichia; Orsi, Laurent; Roman, Eve; Metayer, Catherine; Infante-Rivard, Claire; Clavel, Jacqueline

2015-01-01

The associations between childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and several proxies of early stimulation of the immune system, that is, day-care center attendance, birth order, maternally reported common infections in infancy, and breastfeeding, were investigated by using data from 11 case-control studies participating in the Childhood Leukemia International Consortium (enrollment period: 1980–2010). The sample included 7,399 ALL cases and 11,181 controls aged 2–14 years. The data were collected by questionnaires administered to the parents. Pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated by unconditional logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, study, maternal education, and maternal age. Day-care center attendance in the first year of life was associated with a reduced risk of ALL (odds ratio = 0.77, 95% confidence interval: 0.71, 0.84), with a marked inverse trend with earlier age at start (P < 0.0001). An inverse association was also observed with breastfeeding duration of 6 months or more (odds ratio = 0.86, 95% confidence interval: 0.79, 0.94). No significant relationship with a history of common infections in infancy was observed even though the odds ratio was less than 1 for more than 3 infections. The findings of this large pooled analysis reinforce the hypothesis that day-care center attendance in infancy and prolonged breastfeeding are associated with a decreased risk of ALL. PMID:25731888

The effect of a movement-to-music video program on the objectively measured sedentary time and physical activity of preschool-aged children and their mothers: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Tuominen, Pipsa P A; Husu, Pauliina; Raitanen, Jani; Kujala, Urho M; Luoto, Riitta M

2017-01-01

Regular physical activity (PA) and the avoidance of prolonged sitting are essential for children's healthy growth, and for the physical and mental wellbeing of both children and adults. In the context of exercise, music may promote behavioral change through increased exercise adherence and participation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a movement-to-music video program could reduce sedentary behavior (SB) and increase PA in mother-child pairs in the home environment. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Pirkanmaa region, Finland, in 2014-2016. The participants consisted of 228 mother-child pairs (child age 5-7 years). The primary outcomes of interest were tri-axial accelerometer-derived SB and PA, which were measured in weeks one (baseline), two, and eight in both the intervention and control groups. Further, the mothers and children in the intervention group used a movement-to-music video program from the beginning of week two to the end of week eight. Secondary outcomes included self-reported screen time. The statistical methods employed comprised an intention-to-treat and linear mixed effects model design. No statistically significant differences between groups were found in primary or secondary outcomes. Among the children in the control group, light PA decreased significantly over time and screen time increased from 89 (standard deviation, SD 37) to 99 (SD 41) min/d. Among mothers and children in the intervention group, no statistical differences were found. In supplementary analysis, the children who stayed at home instead of attending daycare/preschool had on average 25 (95% confidence interval, CI 19-30) min/d more sedentary time and 11 (95% CI 8-14) min/d less moderate-to-vigorous PA than those who were at daycare/preschool. The higher body mass index of mothers was related with 5 (95% CI 2-7) min/d more sedentary time and 1 (95% CI 0-2) min/d less moderate-to-vigorous PA. The movement-to-music video program did not change the objectively measured SB or PA of the mother-child pairs. However, mothers and children seemed to be more sedentary at home, and therefore interventions for decreasing SB and increasing PA should be targeted in the home environment.

The effect of a movement-to-music video program on the objectively measured sedentary time and physical activity of preschool-aged children and their mothers: A randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Husu, Pauliina; Raitanen, Jani; Kujala, Urho M.; Luoto, Riitta M.

2017-01-01

Regular physical activity (PA) and the avoidance of prolonged sitting are essential for children’s healthy growth, and for the physical and mental wellbeing of both children and adults. In the context of exercise, music may promote behavioral change through increased exercise adherence and participation. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a movement-to-music video program could reduce sedentary behavior (SB) and increase PA in mother-child pairs in the home environment. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Pirkanmaa region, Finland, in 2014–2016. The participants consisted of 228 mother-child pairs (child age 5–7 years). The primary outcomes of interest were tri-axial accelerometer-derived SB and PA, which were measured in weeks one (baseline), two, and eight in both the intervention and control groups. Further, the mothers and children in the intervention group used a movement-to-music video program from the beginning of week two to the end of week eight. Secondary outcomes included self-reported screen time. The statistical methods employed comprised an intention-to-treat and linear mixed effects model design. No statistically significant differences between groups were found in primary or secondary outcomes. Among the children in the control group, light PA decreased significantly over time and screen time increased from 89 (standard deviation, SD 37) to 99 (SD 41) min/d. Among mothers and children in the intervention group, no statistical differences were found. In supplementary analysis, the children who stayed at home instead of attending daycare/preschool had on average 25 (95% confidence interval, CI 19–30) min/d more sedentary time and 11 (95% CI 8–14) min/d less moderate-to-vigorous PA than those who were at daycare/preschool. The higher body mass index of mothers was related with 5 (95% CI 2–7) min/d more sedentary time and 1 (95% CI 0–2) min/d less moderate-to-vigorous PA. The movement-to-music video program did not change the objectively measured SB or PA of the mother-child pairs. However, mothers and children seemed to be more sedentary at home, and therefore interventions for decreasing SB and increasing PA should be targeted in the home environment. PMID:28859091

Psychological Evaluation of Animal-assisted Intervention (AAI) Programs Involving Visiting Dogs and Cats for Alcohol Dependents: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Ohtani, Nobuyo; Narita, Shin; Yoshihara, Eiji; Ohta, Mitsuaki; Iwahashi, Kazuhiko

2015-12-01

The purpose of this study was to develop an evaluation method for animal-assisted intervention (AAI) programs involving Mood Check List-Short form.2 (MCL-S.2) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) for psychiatric daycare of Japanese alcohol. dependents. A total of 36 alcohol dependents completed the study and questionnaires assessing their state. A single session of AAI reduced both subjective and physiological measures of state anxiety (A-State); and this program induced a significant reduction in the anxiety after an AAI program session with the dogs and cats involved in the intervention (p = 0.001). The Wilcoxon t-test showed that there were also significant differences in the "anxiety", "pleasantness", and "relaxation". scores for MCL-S.2 among the alcohol dependents, before and after AAI; a significantly decreased "anxiety" score (p = 0.006), and increased "pleasantness" (p = 0.002) and "relaxation" (p=0.012) scores for MCL-S.2 after AAI. The results of this study indicated that alcohol dependents who experienced a group AAI session-program exhibited significant improvements in their feeling; decreased anxiety, and increased pleasantness and relaxation.

Molluscum Contagiosum (For Parents)

MedlinePlus

... poxvirus family. This virus thrives in warm, humid climates and in areas where people live in close ... kids with molluscum contagiosum can still go to school or daycare, participate in sports, and play with ...

Are female daycare workers at greater risk of cytomegalovirus infection? A secondary data analysis of CMV seroprevalence between 2010 and 2013 in Hamburg, Germany.

PubMed

Stranzinger, Johanna; Kozak, Agnessa; Schilgen, Benjamin; Paris, Diana; Nießen, Thomas; Schmidt, Lutz; Wille, Andreas; Wagner, Norbert L; Nienhaus, Albert

2016-01-01

Close contact with asymptomatic children younger than three years is a risk factor for a primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. In pregnant women, such primary infection increases the risk of CMV-induced feto- or embryopathy. Daycare providers have therefore implemented working restrictions for pregnant daycare workers (DCWs) in accordance with legislation and guidelines for maternity protection. However, little is known about the infection risk for DCWs. We therefore compared the prevalence of CMV antibodies of pregnant DCWs to that of female blood donors (BDs). In a secondary data analysis, the prevalence of anti-CMV IgG among pregnant DCWs (N=509) in daycare centers (DCCs) was compared to the prevalence of female first-time BDs (N=14,358) from the greater region of Hamburg, Germany. Data collection took place between 2010 and 2013. The influence of other risk factors such as age, pregnancies and place of residence was evaluated using logistic regression models. The prevalence of CMV antibodies in pregnant DCWs was higher than in female BDs (54.6 vs 41.5%; OR 1.6; 95%CI 1.3-1.9). The subgroup of BDs who had given birth to at least one child and who lived in the city of Hamburg (N=2,591) had a prevalence of CMV antibodies similar to the prevalence in pregnant DCWs (53.9 vs 54.6%; OR 0.9; 95%CI 0.8-1.2). Age, pregnancy history and living in the center of Hamburg were risk factors for CMV infections. The comparison of pregnant DCWs to the best-matching subgroup of female first-time BDs with past pregnancies and living in the city of Hamburg does not indicate an elevated risk of CMV infection among DCWs. However, as two secondary data sets from convenience samples were used, a more detailed investigation of the risk factors other than place of residence, age and maternity was not possible. Therefore, the CMV infection risk in DCWs should be further studied by taking into consideration the potential preventive effect of hygiene measures.

Trip generation at special sites.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1984-01-01

Seven-day volume counts were made at fast-food restaurants with drive-thru service, convenience markets, condominiums, drive-in banks, high-rise apartments, planned unit developments, mobile home parks, day-care centers, churches, suburban motels, an...

Mercury Report-Children's exposure to elemental mercury

MedlinePlus

... gov . Mercury Background Mercury Report Additional Resources Mercury Report - Children's Exposure to Elemental Mercury Recommend on Facebook ... I limit exposure to mercury? Why was the report written? Children attending a daycare in New Jersey ...

Presence of Pathogenic Bacteria and Viruses in the Daycare Environment.

PubMed

Ibfelt, Tobias; Engelund, Eva Hoy; Permin, Anders; Madsen, Jonas Stenløkke; Schultz, Anna Charlotte; Andersen, Leif Percival

2015-10-01

The number of children in daycare centers (DCCs) is rising. This increases exposure to microorganisms and infectious diseases. Little is known about which bacteria and viruses are present in the DCC environment and where they are located. In the study described in this article, the authors set out to determine the prevalence of pathogenic bacteria and viruses and to find the most contaminated fomites in DCCs. Fifteen locations in each DCC were sampled for bacteria, respiratory viruses, and gastrointestinal viruses. The locations were in the toilet, kitchen, and playroom areas and included nursery pillows, toys, and tables, among other things. Coliform bacteria were primarily found in the toilet and kitchen areas whereas nasopharyngeal bacteria were found mostly on toys and fabric surfaces in the playroom. Respiratory viruses were omnipresent in the DCC environment, especially on the toys.

[Integration to school of young children with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump therapy: parent's feed-back].

PubMed

Crosnier, H; Tubiana-Rufi, N

2013-12-01

There is an increase in the incidence of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children younger than 5 years of age and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) appears to be an increasingly popular therapeutic option in France. A retrospective self-evaluation questionnaire was distributed to parents of young children with T1D treated by CSII (42 children, age 4.8±1.0 years, 2.3±0.5 years at the onset of TD1, mean± SD). It focused on the quality of diabetes management in daycare centers or with nannies and at school. Parental satisfaction related to the management of their children was overall good (84% for all the parents, 70.5% for the parents of children at nursery-school, from 3 to 6 years. However 93% of the parents experienced and overcame serious difficulties: exclusion of the children on account of DT1 (school trips, daycare centers after school), use of the pump for lunch and snacks, realization of glycemic controls, participation in school trips, survey during school meals. In spite of these difficulties these young children had a normal and safe time at school. The management of the young children with DT1, treated by CSII, in alternate care centers and at school need to be improved; the experience was positive when daycare workers and teachers agreed to be instructed. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Double-blind randomized controlled trial of rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron.

PubMed

Barbosa, Teresa Negreira Navarro; Taddei, José Augusto de Aguiar Carrazedo; Palma, Domingos; Ancona-Lopez, Fábio; Braga, Josefina Aparecida Pellegrini

2012-01-01

To evaluate the impact of the fortification of rolls with microencapsulated iron sulfate with sodium alginate on the hemoglobin levels in preschoolers as compared to controls. Double-blind randomized controlled trial comprised of children aged 2 to 6 years with initial hemoglobin exceeding 9 g/dL from four not-for-profit daycares randomly selected in the city of São Paulo - Brazil. Children of 2 daycares (n = 88) received rolls with fortified wheat flour as the exposed group (EC) and children of 2 daycares (n = 85) received rolls without fortification as the control group (CG) over a 24-week period. Rolls with 4 mg iron each were offered once a day, five days a week. Hemoglobin concentrations were determined in capillary blood by HemoCue® at three moments of trial: baseline (Ml), after 12 and 24 weeks of intervention (M2, M3). Hemoglobin concentration presented significant increase up to M3 in EG (11.7-12.5-12.6 g/dL) and in CG (11.1-12.4-12.3 g/dL) with higher elevations in children initially with anemia. There was significant reduction in the occurrence of anemia from 22% to 9% in EG and from 47% to 8.2% in CG at M3. Rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron sulfate were well tolerated, increased hemoglobin levels and reduced the occurrence of anemia, but with no difference compared to the control group.

Pneumococcal vaccination reduces the risk of community-acquired pneumonia in children.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Junko; Mori, Mitsuru; Ohnishi, Hirofumi; Tsugawa, Takeshi; Hori, Tsukasa; Yoto, Yuko; Tsutsumi, Hiroyuki

2017-03-01

The seven-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) was introduced to Japan in 2009, after which there was a rapid decline in invasive pneumococcal disease. There are few data, however, on the effectiveness of PCV7 against community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). We conducted an ambispective cohort study among children aged 0-6 years old who attended day-care centers. A total of 624 children at 10 day-care centers in Sapporo, Japan participated in the study. The parents reported whether their child had received PCV7 one or more times, as well as the exact dates of vaccination from records in maternal and child health handbooks marked by pediatricians. Each CAP event was reported by parents according to doctor diagnosis. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95%CI of CAP incidence reduced by PCV7 inoculation. During the observational period, 94 subjects contracted CAP. After adjusting for potentially confounding variables, inoculation with PCV7 was significantly associated with a reduced risk of CAP (HR, 0.22; 95%CI: 0.13-0.34). On stratified analysis by age, PCV7 was significantly associated with a reduced risk of CAP in both children aged <3 years (HR, 0.31; 95%CI: 0.14-0.71), and those ≥3 years (HR, 0.20; 95%CI: 0.09-0.43). PCV7 is highly effective in reducing the risk of CAP in children attending day-care centers. © 2016 Japan Pediatric Society.

Effect of cat and daycare exposures on the risk of asthma in children with atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Gaffin, Jonathan M; Spergel, Jonathan M; Boguniewicz, Mark; Eichenfield, Lawrence F; Paller, Amy S; Fowler, Joseph F; Dinulos, James G; Tilles, Stephen A; Schneider, Lynda C; Phipatanakul, Wanda

2012-01-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) in young children is often followed by the development of asthma (atopic march). The role of environmental exposures is unclear in this high-risk population. We aimed to determine the predictive relationship between indoor allergen exposures, particularly pets, rodents, and cockroaches, to the development of asthma in a prospective pediatric cohort. Children with AD and a family history of allergy were followed prospectively with questionnaire ascertainment of environmental exposure to cats, dogs, cockroaches, rats, and mice. Asthma was diagnosed by study physicians based on caregiver reports of symptoms continually assessed over the course of the study period. Fifty-five of the 299 children developed asthma by the end of the study. Cat exposure had a strong and independent effect to reduce the risk of developing asthma across all analyses (odds ratio [OR], 0.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.05-0.53). Dog, mouse, rat, and cockroach exposures did not significantly influence the development of asthma. Daycare exposure had the largest risk reduction for the development of asthma (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.03-0.19). Maternal asthma (OR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.29-6.67), baseline body mass index (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.08-1.42), and specific immunoglobulin E to house-dust mix at 3 years were each independent risk factors for the development of asthma. In children with AD, cat and daycare exposure may reduce the risk of developing early childhood asthma.

77 FR 65894 - Agency Forms Undergoing Paperwork Reduction Act Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-31

... drinking water distribution systems. A study conducted in Norway from 2003-2004 found that people exposed... or adult household member employed at daycare, pets in the household and other animal contact, and...

Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines.

PubMed

Wharton, M; Cochi, S L; Williams, W W

1990-03-01

With widespread use of the live virus vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, there has been a dramatic decrease in the incidence of all three diseases. At the same time, an increasing proportion of the remaining cases are occurring in adolescents and adults. Thus, vaccinations for these three diseases of childhood must be included in a comprehensive program for adult immunization. The vaccines have a proven history of safety and efficacy and are usually administered together as combined measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Vaccination for measles, mumps, and rubella is particularly important for susceptible adults likely to come in contact with infected children. Adults at particularly high risk for exposure may include daycare center workers, teachers and other school employees, college students, medical personnel, and those planning to travel outside the United States.

PESTICIDE SCREENING RESULTS FROM EIGHT DAYCARE CENTERS

EPA Science Inventory

To improve assessments of children's exposures to pesticides in support of the Food Quality Protection Act, priority research and data needs include: pesticide use patterns, pesticide residue distributions, and dermal exposure assessment approaches. To address these gaps, the ...

Developing Your Employee Handbook: Job Descriptions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perreault, Joe

1988-01-01

A job description is a brief document that conveys to employees the importance of their jobs to the overall success of the day-care center. If properly written, it can contribute to effective employee motivation and supervision. (RJC)

Do workplace and home protective practices protect farm workers? Findings from the For Healthy Kids Study

PubMed Central

Coronado, Gloria D.; Holte, Sarah E.; Vigoren, Eric M.; Griffith, William C; Barr, Dana B.; Faustman, Elaine M.; Thompson, Beti

2013-01-01

Objective To assess associations of protective workplace and home practices to pesticide exposure levels. Methods Using data from orchard workers in the Yakima Valley, Washington, we examined associations of workplace and home protective practices to (1) urinary metabolite concentrations of dimethylthiophosphate (DMTP) in adults and children aged 2–6; and (2) azinphos-methyl levels in house and vehicle dust. Results Data were from 95 orchard workers and 94 children. Contrary to expectation, adult farm workers who wore boots or washed hands using hand sanitizer had higher concentrations of DMTP than those who did not. Children who attended daycare had higher DMTP concentrations than children who did not. Conclusions Few workplace or home practices were associated with pesticide exposure levels; workers who used hand sanitizer had higher concentrations of DMTP, as did children who attended daycare. PMID:22772953

Detection of human norovirus from frozen raspberries in a cluster of gastroenteritis outbreaks.

PubMed

Maunula, L; Roivainen, M; Keränen, M; Mäkela, S; Söderberg, K; Summa, M; von Bonsdorff, C H; Lappalainen, M; Korhonen, T; Kuusi, M; Niskanen, T

2009-12-10

We describe a cluster of norovirus outbreaks affecting about 200 people in Southern Finland in September and October 2009. All outbreaks occurred after consumption of imported raspberries from the same batch intended for the catering sector. Human norovirus genotype GI.4 was found in frozen raspberries. The berries were served in toppings of cakes in separate catering settings or mixed in curd cheese as a snack for children in a daycare center. The relative risk for consumption of the berry dish was 3.0 (p

Prevalence and associated Risk Factors of Severe Early Childhood Caries in 12- to 36-month-old Children of Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh, India.

PubMed

G Mangla, Ritu; Kapur, Raman; Dhindsa, Abhishek; Madan, Manish

2017-01-01

To assess the prevalence, distribution, and associated risk factors of severe early childhood caries (S-ECC) among 12- to 36-month-old children of district Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, India. The present study was conducted on a random sample of 510 children, both boys and girls, between 12 and 36 months of age randomly selected from various government-sponsored day-care centers, private day-care centers, and vaccination centers. Caries was recorded using World Health Organization criteria. Statistical analysis was done by using chi-square test and Mann-Whitney test. A two-sided p value was calculated for each statistical test. Multiple logistic regressions were done to calculate the risk of S-ECC from independent variables. In the present study, S-ECC was found in 21% of 510, 12 to 36 months old children of Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh. The S-ECC was found to be significantly higher in 25 to 36 months old children's age group and was 27.8% in them as compared with 8% in 12 to 24 months old children. Providing anticipatory guidance and education to parents is essential for the promotion of optimal oral health of their children. There is a need for moving upstream to propose and implement policies and programs to improve the oral health of the very young, especially in a developing country like India, which lacks much data on S-ECC. Mangla RG, Kapur R, Dhindsa A, Madan M. Prevalence and associated Risk Factors of Severe Early Childhood Caries in 12- to 36-month-old Children of Sirmaur District, Himachal Pradesh, India. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(2):183-187.

Examining the relationship between ethnicity and the use of drug-related services: an ethnographic study of Nepali drug users in Hong Kong

PubMed Central

Tang, Wai-Man

2014-01-01

A recent survey has shown that Nepali drug users in Hong Kong tend to have a low rate of usage of day-care and residential rehabilitation services, but a high rate of usage of methadone services. Little is known about the reasons behind such a pattern. Therefore, in this study, a 12-month ethnographic examination has been implemented in three sites, including a day-care center, residential rehabilitation center, and methadone clinic, to explore the experiences of 20 Nepali drug users in their use of drug-related services in Hong Kong and to examine the relationship between ethnicity and the use of drug-related services. The result shows that the reason for this pattern of service use is related to the approach of the services and the cultural perception of the service providers about the service users. The day-care and residential rehabilitation services emphasize an integrated approach, but the staff tend to overlook the heterogeneity of their clients, for example, the differences in caste and sex, and fail to provide suitable services to them, whereas the methadone service follows a biomedical model, which seldom addresses the social characteristics of the service users, which in turn minimizes the opportunity for misunderstandings between the staff and the clients. This research shows that ethnicity is a significant factor in drug treatment and that culture-specific treatment that takes into consideration the treatment approach and the heterogeneity of the clients is strongly needed. PMID:25114609

Psychometric Properties of the Young Children’s Participation and Environment Measure

PubMed Central

Khetani, Mary A.; Graham, James E.; Davies, Patricia L.; Law, Mary C.; Simeonsson, Rune J.

2014-01-01

Objective To evaluate the psychometric properties of the newly developed Young Children’s Participation and Environment Measure (YC-PEM). Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Data were collected online and by telephone. Participants Convenience and snowball sampling methods were used to survey caregivers of 395 children (93 children with developmental disabilities and delays, 302 without developmental disabilities and delays) between 0–5 years (mean = 35.33 months, SD = 20.29) and residing in North America. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measure(s) The YC-PEM includes three participation scales and one environment scale. Each scale is assessed across three settings: home, daycare/preschool, and community. Data were analyzed to derive estimates of internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity. Results Internal consistency ranged from .68 to .96 and .92 to .96 for the participation and environment scales, respectively. Test-retest reliability (2–4 weeks) ranged from .31 to .93 for participation scales and from .91 to .94 for the environment scale. One of three participation scales and the environment scale demonstrated significant group differences by disability status across all three settings, and all four scales discriminated between disability groups for the daycare/preschool setting. The participation scales exhibited small to moderate positive associations with functional performance scores. Conclusion(s) Results lend initial support for the use of the YC-PEM in research to assess the participation of young children with disabilities and delays in terms of 1) home, daycare/preschool, and community participation patterns, 2) perceived environmental supports and barriers to participation, and 3) activity-specific parent strategies to promote participation. PMID:25449189

A cost analysis of orthopedic foot surgery: can outpatient continuous regional analgesia provide the same standard of care for postoperative pain control at home without shifting costs?

PubMed

Saporito, Andrea; Calciolari, Stefano; Ortiz, Laura Gonzalez; Anselmi, Luciano; Borgeat, Alain; Aguirre, José

2016-11-01

Same-day surgery is common for foot surgery. Continuous regional anesthesia for outpatients has been shown effective but the economic impact on the perioperative process-related healthcare costs remains unclear. One hundred twenty consecutive patients were included in this assessor-blinded, prospective cohort study and allocated according to inclusion criteria in the day-care or in the in-patient group. Standardized continuous popliteal sciatic nerve block was performed in both groups for 48 h using an elastomeric pump delivering ropivacaine 0.2 % at a rate of 5 ml/h with an additional 5 ml bolus every 60 min. Outpatients were discharged the day of surgery and followed with standardized telephone interviews. The total direct health costs of both groups were compared. Moreover, the difference in treatment costs and the difference in terms of quality of care and effectiveness between the groups were compared. Total management costs were significantly reduced in the day-care group. There was no difference between the groups regarding pain at rest and with motion, persistent pain after catheter removal and the incidence of PONV. Persistent motor block and catheter inflammation/infection were comparable in both groups. There was neither a difference in the number of unscheduled ambulatory visits nor in the number of readmissions. Day-care continuous regional analgesia leads to an overall positive impact on costs by decreasing the incidence of unplanned ambulatory visits and unscheduled readmissions, without compromising on the quality of analgesia, patients' satisfaction, and safety.

Nutritional status of pre-school children from low income families

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background We evaluated growth and nutritional status of preschool children between 2 and 6 years old from low income families from 14 daycare centers. Methods Cross-sectional study with 1544 children from daycare centers of Santo Andre, Brazil. Body weight (W), height (H) and body mass index (BMI) were classified according to the 2000 National Center for Health Statistics (CDC/NCHS). Cutoff points for nutritional disorders: -2 z scores and 2.5 and 10 percentiles for malnutrition risk, 85 to 95 percentile for overweight and above BMI 95 percentile for obesity. Stepwise Forward Regression method was used including age, gender, birth weight, breastfeeding duration, age of mother at birth and period of time they attended the daycare center. Results Children presented mean z scores of H, W and BMI above the median of the CDC/NCHS reference. Girls were taller and heavier than boys, while we observed similar BMI between both genders. The z scores tended to rise with age. A Pearson Coefficient of Correlation of 0.89 for W, 0.93 for H and 0.95 for BMI was documented indicating positive association of age with weight, height and BMI. The frequency of children below -2 z scores was lower than expected: 1.5% for W, 1.75% for H and 0% for BMI, which suggests that there were no malnourished children. The other extremity of the distribution evidenced prevalence of overweight and obesity of 16.8% and 10.8%, respectively. Conclusion Low income preschool children are in an advanced stage of nutritional transition with a high prevalence of overweight. PMID:21549003

Effect of cat and daycare exposures on the risk of asthma in children with atopic dermatitis

PubMed Central

Gaffin, Jonathan M.; Spergel, Jonathan M.; Boguniewicz, Mark; Eichenfield, Lawrence F.; Paller, Amy S.; Fowler, Joseph F.; Dinulos, James G.; Tilles, Stephen A.; Schneider, Lynda C.

2012-01-01

Atopic dermatitis (AD) in young children is often followed by the development of asthma (atopic march). The role of environmental exposures is unclear in this high-risk population. We aimed to determine the predictive relationship between indoor allergen exposures, particularly pets, rodents, and cockroaches, to the development of asthma in a prospective pediatric cohort. Children with AD and a family history of allergy were followed prospectively with questionnaire ascertainment of environmental exposure to cats, dogs, cockroaches, rats, and mice. Asthma was diagnosed by study physicians based on caregiver reports of symptoms continually assessed over the course of the study period. Fifty-five of the 299 children developed asthma by the end of the study. Cat exposure had a strong and independent effect to reduce the risk of developing asthma across all analyses (odds ratio [OR], 0.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.05–0.53). Dog, mouse, rat, and cockroach exposures did not significantly influence the development of asthma. Daycare exposure had the largest risk reduction for the development of asthma (OR, 0.08; 95% CI, 0.03–0.19). Maternal asthma (OR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.29–6.67), baseline body mass index (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.08–1.42), and specific immunoglobulin E to house-dust mix at 3 years were each independent risk factors for the development of asthma. In children with AD, cat and daycare exposure may reduce the risk of developing early childhood asthma. PMID:22584195

[Effect of Visiting and a Smartphone Application Based Infection Prevention Education Program for Child Care Teachers: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial].

PubMed

Yang, Yun Jeong; Kwon, In Soo

2017-12-01

This study was performed to develop an infection prevention education program for child care teachers and to verify its effects. The study was conducted using a nonequivalent control group with a pretest-posttest design. Four private daycare centers (2 centers per city) that were alike in terms of the number of children by age, number of child care teachers, and child care environment were chosen. Participants were assigned to the experimental group (n=20) or control group (n=20). As a part of the program, visiting education (90 min) was provided in the 1st week, and smartphone application education (10 min) was provided thrice a week, in the 2nd and 3rd weeks. Child care teachers' self-efficacy for infection prevention revealed a significant interaction effect between the group and time of measurement (F=21.62, p<.001). In terms of infection prevention behavior, a significant difference was observed between the experimental and control groups (z=-5.36, p<.001). The program implemented in this study was effective in improving the infection prevention self-efficacy and infection prevention behavior of child care teachers. Thus, this program may be effective in enhancing their infection control. © 2017 Korean Society of Nursing Science

Manganese and lead in dust fall accumulation in elementary schools near a ferromanganese alloy plant

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Menezes-Filho, José Antonio, E-mail: antomen@ufba.br; Souza, Karine O. Fraga de, E-mail: karinefraga11@hotmail.com; Rodrigues, Juliana L. Gomes, E-mail: juuhrodrigues@icloud.com

Previous studies have shown elevated airborne manganese (Mn) in villages adjacent to a Mn alloy production plant in Brazil and negative associations between biomarkers of Mn and children's cognition and behavior. Since small Mn particles may be carried for long distances, we measured manganese (Mn) and lead (Pb) dust fall accumulation in 15 elementary schools, located between 1.25 and 6.48 km from the plant in the municipality of Simões Filho, Bahia, Brazil. Passive samplers (polyethylene Petri dishes) were set in interior and exterior environments. After 30 days, the samplers’ content was solubilized with diluted nitric acid and Mn and Pbmore » levels were analyzed by electrothermal absorption spectrometry. The overall geometric mean and range of Mn and Pb accumulation in dust fall (loading rates) were 1582 μg Mn/m{sup 2}/30 days (37–37,967) and 43.2 μg Pb/m{sup 2}/30 days (2.9–210.4). A logarithmic decrease in interior and exterior Mn loading rates was observed with distance from the ferro-manganese alloy plant. Multiple regression analyses of log-transformed Mn loading rate within the schools showed a positive association with Mn levels in outdoor dust, a negative association with distance from the plant; as well, wind direction (downwind>upwind) and school location (urban>rural) entered significantly into the model. For the interior school environments, located within a 2-km radius from the plant, loading rate was, on average, 190 times higher than the Mn levels reported by Gulson et al., (2014) in daycare centers in Sydney, Australia, using a similar method. Pb loading rates were not associated with distance from the plant and were lower than the rates observed in the same daycare centers in Sydney. Our findings suggest that a significant portion of the children in this town in Brazil may be exposed to airborne Mn at concentrations that may affect their neurodevelopment. - Highlights: • Manganese levels in settled dust in schools are inversely associated with distance from the Mn processing plant. • In schools within 2-km from plant, indoor Mn levels are 190 times higher than the levels observed in daycares in Australia. • Pb levels are not associated with distance from the plant and are lower than the levels observed in daycares in Australia.« less

POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON (PAH) EXPOSURE OF 257 PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

EPA Science Inventory

We investigated the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure of 257 preschool children and their adult caregivers in their everyday environments. Participants were recruited randomly from eligible homes and daycare centers within six North Carolina (NC) and six Ohio (OH) c...

ESTIMATING EXCESS DIETARY EXPOSURES OF YOUNG CHILDREN

EPA Science Inventory

Nine children in a daycare that routinely applied the pesticide, esfenvalerate, were studied to assess excess dietary exposures. Surface wipes, a standard food item of processed American cheese slice pressed on the surface and handled by the child, an accelerometer reading, and ...

SCTP as scalable video coding transport

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortiz, Jordi; Graciá, Eduardo Martínez; Skarmeta, Antonio F.

2013-12-01

This study presents an evaluation of the Stream Transmission Control Protocol (SCTP) for the transport of the scalable video codec (SVC), proposed by MPEG as an extension to H.264/AVC. Both technologies fit together properly. On the one hand, SVC permits to split easily the bitstream into substreams carrying different video layers, each with different importance for the reconstruction of the complete video sequence at the receiver end. On the other hand, SCTP includes features, such as the multi-streaming and multi-homing capabilities, that permit to transport robustly and efficiently the SVC layers. Several transmission strategies supported on baseline SCTP and its concurrent multipath transfer (CMT) extension are compared with the classical solutions based on the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and the Realtime Transmission Protocol (RTP). Using ns-2 simulations, it is shown that CMT-SCTP outperforms TCP and RTP in error-prone networking environments. The comparison is established according to several performance measurements, including delay, throughput, packet loss, and peak signal-to-noise ratio of the received video.

Day Care: Serving Preschool Children-3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cohen, Donald J.; Brandegee, Ada S.

The handbook offers information and guidelines for establishing model daycare services for preschool children. Topics examined include: the nature of day care for preschoolers, the developmental patterns of preschool children, administration, budgeting and funding, licensing and other forms of regulation, facilities, parent involvement, curriculum…

Tainted Water, Poison Paint.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Natale, Jo Anna

1991-01-01

Recent research shows lead poisoning is more widespread and even more dangerous to infants and young children than previously thought. A bill proposed in Congress would require schools and day-care centers to test for lead. Summarizes lead's health hazards and how to test drinking water. (MLF)

Evaluating Work-Life Balance in the Department of Defense

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-18

flextime, telework , paternity leave, and daycare (Frye & Breaugh, 2004; Kossek, Pichler, Bodner, & Hammer, in press). Durand et al. (2003) found that...extended maternity leave, paternity leave, and opportunities for telework . References Adams, G.A., Jex, S.M., & Cunningham, C.J.L. (2006

EXPOSURES OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN TO PENTACHLOROPHENOL, BISPHENOL-A, AND NONYLPHENOL AT HOME AND DAYCARE

EPA Science Inventory

The Children's Total Exposure to Persistent Pesticides and Other Persistent Organic Pollutants (CTEPP) study investigated the potential exposures of 257 preschool children and their primary caregivers to >50 anthropogenic chemicals. This study was conducted in selected counties ...

The study to investigate the potential benefits of probiotics in yogurt, a patient-oriented, double-blind, cluster-randomised, placebo-controlled, clinical trial.

PubMed

Merenstein, D J; Smith, K H; Scriven, M; Roberts, R F; Sanders, M E; Petterson, S

2010-07-01

Probiotic functional foods are widely advertised to consumers primarily based on probiotic supplements. Determine if consumption of yogurt containing a high dose of probiotics improves health in children ages 1-3 years attending daycare/school centers. Double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, allocation concealment clinical trial. Outpatient participants in the Washington, DC area. 182 healthy children between the age of 1 and 3 years attending daycare/school at least 3 days a week. Active was a strawberry yogurt-based drink supplemented with Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis (B. lactis) BB-12. The placebo was indistinguishable from the active drink, differing only in absence of the probiotic BB-12. Primary objective was to determine if consumption of a probiotic-containing yogurt-based drink decreases absences due to illnesses from daycare for children ages 1-3 years. Secondary was to determine if probiotic-containing yogurt-based drink improves overall parental satisfaction due to decreased absences from work and an overall healthier child. There were no significant differences in the days of missed school per group, with 51.9% in the active group and 47.1% in the placebo group missing at least 1 day of school throughout the study. Additionally, there were no differences in any secondary outcomes among the groups. Consumption of a yogurt-based drink delivering 10(10) CFU of Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis (B. lactis) BB-12 per day did not decrease the number of days missed of school due to an illness. Additional independent research on the potential of BB-12 to reduce illness in children needs to be conducted.

Individual risk factors associated with nasopharyngeal colonization with Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae: a Japanese birth cohort study.

PubMed

Otsuka, Taketo; Chang, Bin; Shirai, Takatoshi; Iwaya, Atsushi; Wada, Akihito; Yamanaka, Noboru; Okazaki, Minoru

2013-07-01

The first step in a bacterial disease is the establishment of nasopharyngeal carriage. We conducted a birth cohort study to identify factors associated with colonization in healthy children and evaluate the serotype distributions and resistances of Streptococcus pneumoniae/Haemophilus influenzae. Nasopharyngeal cultures were obtained from 349 subjects at 5 time points coinciding with health checkups (4, 7, 10, 18 and 36 months). A total of 551 S. pneumoniae (penicillin resistance rate: 46.3%) and 301 H. influenzae (ampicillin resistance rate: 44.5%) isolates were obtained from 1654 samples. In this study, 47.5% and 60.9% of S. pneumoniae isolates were included in the serotypes of 7- and 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, respectively. Analyzing by Cox proportional hazards models, cohabiting older sibling(s) attending day-care (hazard ratios: 2.064-3.518, P < 0.001) and an early start of day-care attendance by the subjects themselves (2.259-2.439, P < 0.001) were associated with a higher risk of early colonization regardless of their susceptibility. Recent exposure to antimicrobials was also significantly associated with increased risk of colonization (odds ratios: 2.032-2.999, P < 0.001) but not with resistance rates. This data indicated that introduction of appropriate antimicrobial usage in areas of overuse of antimicrobials could contribute to lower colonization of S. pneumoniae/H. influenzae, resulting in a decrease in the absolute number of resistant isolates. Strategies to control transmission at day-care centers or from older sibling(s) as well as appropriate use of antimicrobials are essential for reducing colonization and the absolute number of resistant isolates.

Effects of maternal absence due to employment on the quality of infant-mother attachment in a low-risk sample.

PubMed

Barglow, P; Vaughn, B E; Molitor, N

1987-08-01

Recent reports have suggested that day-care experience initiated prior to 12 months of age is associated with increased proportions of infants whose attachment to mother is classified as "insecure-avoidant." However, reviewers have questioned the generality of these findings, noting that samples in which associations between early day-care experience and avoidant attachment patterns have been reported come from high-risk populations, and/or that the infants' day-care settings may not have been of high quality. In the present study, effects of maternal absences on infant-mother attachment quality were assessed in a low-risk, middle-class sample (N = 110). In all instances, substitute care had been initiated at least 4 months prior to the infant's first birthday and was provided in the infant's home by a person unrelated to the baby. Infants were assessed using the Ainsworth Strange Situation when they were 12-13 months of age. Analyses indicated that a significantly greater proportion of infants whose mothers worked outside the home (N = 54) were assigned to the category "insecure-avoidant" as compared to infants whose mothers remained in the home (N = 56) throughout the first year of life. Analyses of demographic and psychological data available for the sample indicated that this relation is dependent upon maternal parity (primi- vs. multiparous mother). The association between attachment quality and work status was significant only for firstborn children of full-time working mothers. The results are interpreted as evidence that the repeated daily separations experienced by infants whose mothers are working full-time constitute a "risk" factor for the development of "insecure-avoidant" infant-mother attachments.

Fermented Milk Consumption and Common Infections in Children Attending Day-Care Centers: A Randomized Trial.

PubMed

Prodeus, Andrey; Niborski, Violeta; Schrezenmeir, Juergen; Gorelov, Alexander; Shcherbina, Anna; Rumyantsev, Alexander

2016-11-01

This multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial investigated the effect of a fermented milk product containing the Lactobacillus casei National Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures (CNCM) I-1518 strain on respiratory and gastrointestinal common infectious diseases (CIDs) in children attending day-care centers in Russia. Children ages 3 to 6 years received 100 g of a fermented milk product (n = 300) or a control product (n = 299) twice daily for 3 months, followed by a 1-month observation period. The primary outcome was the incidence of CIDs during the product consumption period. There was no significant difference in the incidence of CIDs between the groups (N = 98 with fermented milk product vs N = 93 with control product). The overall number of CIDs (and no severe cases at all) in both study groups and in all 12 centers, however, was unexpectedly low resulting in underpowering of the study. No differences were found between the groups in the duration or severity of disease, duration of sick leave from day-care centers, parental missed working days, or in quality-of-life dimensions on the PedsQL questionnaire (P > 0.05).There was, however, a significantly lower incidence of the most frequently observed CID, rhinopharyngitis, in children consuming the fermented milk product compared with those consuming the control product (N = 81 vs N = 100, relative risk 0.82, 95% confidence interval 0.69-0.96, P = 0.017) when considering the entire study period. Although no other significant differences were shown between the fermented milk and control product groups in this study, lower incidence of rhinopharyngitis may indicate a beneficial effect of this fermented milk product.

Effect of degree of urbanisation on age and sex-specific asthma prevalence in Swedish preschool children.

PubMed

Bröms, Kristina; Norbäck, Dan; Eriksson, Margaretha; Sundelin, Claes; Svärdsudd, Kurt

2009-08-20

There are few studies on age and sex-specific asthma prevalence in the age range 1-6 years. The purpose of this report was to estimate age and sex specific asthma prevalence in preschool children and to analyse the influence of possible demographic and geographic determinants. All 70 allergen avoidance day-care centres and 140 matched ordinary day-care centres across Sweden were sampled. The parents of all 8,757 children attending these day-care centres received the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) written questionnaire, supplemented with questions on medical treatment, physician assessed asthma diagnosis, and other asthma related questions. The response rate was 68%. The age specific asthma prevalence, adjusted for the underlying municipality population size, was among boys 9.7% at age 1, 11.1% at age 2, 11.4 at age 3, 10.5 at age 4, 8.7 at age 5, and 6.4 at age 6. The corresponding proportions among girls were 8.9%, 9.9%, 9.8%, 8.8%, 7.0%, and 5.0%, on average 9.6% for boys and 8.2% for girls, altogether 8.9%. In addition to age and sex the prevalence increased by municipality population density, a proxy for degree of urbanisation. Moreover, there was a remaining weak geographical gradient with increasing prevalence towards the north and the west. The age-specific asthma prevalence was curvilinear with a peak around age 3 and somewhat higher for boys than for girls. The asthma prevalence increased in a slowly accelerating pace by municipality population density as a proxy for degree of urbanisation.

Psychometric properties of the Young Children's Participation and Environment Measure.

PubMed

Khetani, Mary A; Graham, James E; Davies, Patricia L; Law, Mary C; Simeonsson, Rune J

2015-02-01

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the newly developed Young Children's Participation and Environment Measure (YC-PEM). Cross-sectional study. Data were collected online and by telephone. Convenience and snowball sampling methods were used to survey caregivers of children (N=395, comprising children with [n=93] and without [n=302] developmental disabilities and delays) between the ages of 0 and 5 years (mean age±SD, 35.33±20.29 mo) and residing in North America. Not applicable. The YC-PEM includes 3 participation scales and 1 environment scale. Each scale is assessed across 3 settings: home, daycare/preschool, and community. Data were analyzed to derive estimates of internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity. Internal consistency ranged from .68 to .96 and .92 to .96 for the participation and environment scales, respectively. Test-retest reliability (2-4 wk) ranged from .31 to .93 for participation scales and from .91 to .94 for the environment scale. One of 3 participation scales and the environment scale demonstrated significant group differences by disability status across all 3 settings, and all 4 scales discriminated between disability groups for the daycare/preschool setting. The participation scales exhibited small to moderate positive associations with functional performance scores. Results lend initial support for the use of the YC-PEM in research to assess the participation of young children with disabilities and delays in terms of (1) home, daycare/preschool, and community participation patterns; (2) perceived environmental supports and barriers to participation; and (3) activity-specific parent strategies to promote participation. Copyright © 2015 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Performance of microscopy and ELISA for diagnosing Giardia duodenalis infection in different pediatric groups.

PubMed

Silva, Renata K N R; Pacheco, Flávia T F; Martins, Adson S; Menezes, Joelma F; Costa-Ribeiro, Hugo; Ribeiro, Tereza C M; Mattos, Ângela P; Oliveira, Ricardo R; Soares, Neci M; Teixeira, Márcia C A

2016-12-01

Techniques for Giardia diagnosis based on microscopy are usually applied as routine laboratory testing; however, they typically exhibit low sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate Giardia duodenalis and other intestinal parasitic infections in different pediatric groups, with an emphasis on the comparison of Giardia diagnostic techniques. Feces from 824 children from different groups (diarrheic, malnourished, with cancer and from day care) were examined by microscopy and ELISA for Giardia, Cryptosporidium sp. and Entamoeba histolytica coproantigen detection. Giardia-positive samples from day-care children, identified by either microscopy or ELISA, were further tested by PCR targeting of the β-giardin and Gdh genes. Statistically significant differences (P<0.05) were observed when comparing the frequency of each protozoan among the groups. Giardia duodenalis was more frequent in day-care children and Cryptosporidium sp. in diarrheic and malnourished groups; infections by Entamoeba histolytica were found only in children with diarrhea. Considering positivity for Giardia by at least one method, ELISA was found to be more sensitive than microscopy (97% versus 55%). To examine discrepancies among the diagnostic methods, 71 Giardia-positive stool samples from day-care children were tested by PCR; of these, DNA was amplified from 51 samples (77.4%). Concordance of positivity between microscopy and ELISA was found for 48 samples, with 43 confirmed by PCR. Parasite DNA was amplified from eleven of the 20 Giardia samples (55%) identified only by ELISA. This study shows the higher sensitivity of ELISA over microscopy for Giardia diagnosis when a single sample is analyzed and emphasizes the need for methods based on coproantigen detection to identify this parasite in diarrheic fecal samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Health promotion in day-care centres in Reykjavík--intervention and result of actions].

PubMed

Gudmarsdóttir, Agústa; Tómasson, Kristinn

2007-03-01

The purpose of the study was to compare wellbeing, health and work environment before and after intervention among employees of Reykjavík city day-care centre. The study is a prospective interventions study. In the year 2000 employees of 16 day-care centres responded to a questionnaire regarding work environment, health and wellbeing. Work environment evaluation was completed and the centre classified into four groups accordingly. Subsequently, the "equipment was renewed" noise protection improved and the employee received education concerning occupational health. Six months, after interventions, in the year 2002 the same questionnaire was readministered. Response rate in 2002 was 88% (n=267) but 90% in the year 2000. Work environment had improved. More employees had received instruction on good workposture and good work technique than 2 years earlier. Fewer employees used awkward posture than before. Better workspace resulted in reduced number of symptoms, also for the youngest employees. Symptoms were also fewer where unskilled employees were in majority and where the fewest of them had received proper education on work posture. In the year 2002, psychosocial wellbeing was better or equal than two years earlier. This was associated with better education and higher age even despite less workspace. Employees awareness towards noise was greatly improved. It is possible to improve work methods and work environment of employees with goal directed intervention, thus laying the ground for wellbeing at work. The interplay between the factors education and age is complex, though. Thus it is important, that all workplaces, adopt the process of "risk assessment", intervention, and then reassessment of the work environment. By doing so the goals of health promotion and good occupational health can be reached.

Qualitative Investigation of Young Children's Music Preferences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roulston, Kathryn

2006-01-01

This qualitative study examined young children's music preferences through group conversations with children, interviews with parents, and non-participant observation of classroom settings in daycare and elementary classrooms. Data were analyzed inductively to generate themes, and revealed that (1) children expressed distinct preferences for an…

The World of Daycare.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Child Resource World Review, 1984

1984-01-01

Articles contained in this first issue of the journal "Child Resource World Review" present information from a worldwide network of day care professionals. Specifically, Alice Honig compares child care in different countries. Sherrie K. Akinsanya reports on stressful aspects of early schooling for children in Nigeria. Sue Owen discusses…

A Study Tour of India.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

French, Shirley

1992-01-01

Describes 1991 site visits by British educational administrators of early childhood educational institutions in Delhi and Bombay, India. Discusses philosophies and practices witnessed at a national center providing preschool education and meals, a mobile day-care center for children of migrant workers, a preschool teacher training institute, and…

20 CFR 416.913 - Medical and other evidence of your impairment(s).

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...(s). 416.913 Section 416.913 Employees' Benefits SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY... judge and Appeals Council levels, and at the reviewing official, administrative law judge, and Decision... teachers, counselors, early intervention team members, developmental center workers, and daycare center...

Effect of animal-assisted activity on balance and quality of life in home-dwelling persons with dementia.

PubMed

Olsen, Christine; Pedersen, Ingeborg; Bergland, Astrid; Enders-Slegers, Marie-José; Ihlebæk, Camilla

2016-01-01

Purpose of the study was to examine if animal-assisted activity with a dog (AAA) in home-dwelling persons with dementia (PWDs) attending day-care centers would have an effect on factors related to risk of fall accidents, with balance (Berg balance scale) and quality of life (Quality of Life in Late-stage Dementia) as main outcome. The project was conducted as a prospective and cluster-randomized multicenter trial with a follow-up. 16 adapted day-care centers recruited respectively 42 (intervention group) and 38 (control group with treatment as usual) home-dwelling PWDs. The intervention consisted of 30 min sessions with AAA led by a qualified dog handler twice a week for 12 weeks in groups of 3-7 participants. The significant positive effect on balance indicates that AAA might work as a multifactorial intervention in dementia care and have useful clinical implication by affecting risk of fall. ClinicalTrial.gov; NCT02008630. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Economic evaluation of a program of coordination between levels for complex chronic patients' management].

PubMed

Allepuz Palau, Alejandro; Piñeiro Méndez, Pilar; Molina Hinojosa, José Carlos; Jou Ferre, Victoria; Gabarró Julià, Lourdes

2015-03-01

The complex chronic patient program (CCP) of the Alt Penedès aims to improve the coordination of care. The objective was to evaluate the relationship between the costs associated with the program, and its results in the form of avoided admissions. Dost-effectiveness analysis from the perspective of the health System based on a before-after study. Alt Penedès. Health services utilisation (hospital [admissions, emergency visits, day-care hospital] and primary care visits). CCP Program results were compared with those prior to its implementation. The cost assigned to each resource corresponded to the hospital CatSalut's concert and ICS fees for primary care. A sensitivity analysis using boot strapping was performed. The intervention was considered cost-effective if the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) did not exceed the cost of admission (€ 1,742.01). 149 patients were included. Admissions dropped from 212 to 145. The ICER was €1,416.3 (94,892.9€/67). Sensitivity analysis showed that in 95% of cases the cost might vary between €70,847.3 and €121,882.5 and avoided admissions between 30 and 102. In 72.4% of the simulations the program was cost-effective. Sensitivity analysis showed that in most situations the PCC Program would be cost-effective, although in a percentage of cases the program could raise overall cost of care, despite always reducing the number of admissions. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Importance of Considering Non-Chemical Stressors in Interpreting Pesticide Exposures in Children

EPA Science Inventory

Children are exposed to chemical and non-chemical stressors from their total environment, which is comprised of the built, natural, and social environments from places where they spend their time, including home, school, and daycare. Evidence in the literature suggests that the ...

Teaching in the Twilight Zone--A Child-Sensitive Approach to Politically Incorrect Activities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Corbett, Susan M.

1994-01-01

Argues that too much emphasis on developing a nonsexist, antibias, peace-centered, politically correct day-care center curriculum may overly restrict children's imagination, creativity, and desires, leading to an educator-imposed bias in the curriculum. Educators should encourage children to engage in developmentally appropriate play activities…

DAY-CARE REHABILITATION CENTER FOR EMOTIONALLY DISTURBED ADOLESCENTS. FINAL REPORT.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

CRAWFORD, HUGH A.; VAN DUYNE, WILLIAM V.

IN THIS FIVE YEAR DEMONSTRATION PROJECT, EMOTIONALLY DISTURBED ADULTS AND ADOLESCENTS RECEIVED TREATMENT AT A DAY CARE REHABILITATION CENTER SPONSORED BY THE RHODE ISLAND DIVISION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION (DVR) LOCATED IN A PRIVATE PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL (BUTLER HOSPITAL). THE MAJOR TREATMENT GOALS WERE PRESERVATION AND RESTORATION OF…

Deconstructing Family Time: From Ideology to Lived Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Daly, Kerry J.

2001-01-01

Interviews were conducted with dual earner and single parent families and observations were made of four- and five-year-old children in daycare to consider the meaning of family time in experience. Although families held the expectation of a positive experience of togetherness, many negative emotions occurred suggesting that a structural…

Disabilities and Inclusive Practices within Toronto Preschools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Killoran, Isabel; Tymon, Dorothy; Frempong, George

2007-01-01

A current objective in Canada is a provision of childcare services for all children. This objective has not been achieved as many children, especially those with disabilities, are often denied services from publicly funded daycare centres. The authors argue that policy discussions framed from an inclusive perspective provide a better understanding…

Identifying and solving lead issues from water systems with materials/device replacement in drinking water system configurations

EPA Science Inventory

Identifying and assessing lead contamination and exposure potentialin single-family residences is difficult enough, but doing the samekind of assessment and remediation in buildings, schools, and daycare centers is even more challenging. It is of particular importancebecause of t...

Infants' Social-Emotional Adjustment within a Childcare Context of Korea

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Min-Hee; Moon, Hyukjun

2011-01-01

In a child day-care setting, the naturally occurring social-emotional behaviours and play interaction of 51 infants were observed and recorded. Individual differences in gender, age, temperament, and maternal parenting behaviours were examined to understand how these variables might be related to social-emotional adjustment of infants. The…

Caring: Information for Family Day-Care Providers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

California Univ., Berkeley. Cooperative Extension Service.

This series of leaflets provides information for family day care providers on nine topics. Age differences and developmental stages are emphasized. The first topic concerns ways to help young children get along with others. Self-esteem is emphasized, and methods for helping children develop self-esteem are listed. The second leaflet discusses…

Friends in Passing: Social Interaction at an Adult Day Care Center.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, Barbara; Roberts, Pamela

1995-01-01

Participant observation study explored social interactions and friendships among cognitively impaired adult day-care participants. Found clients engage in a variety of social interactions and friendships, enabling them to maintain a sense of self and to adjust to group norms. Discussed general socializing, enduring friendships, helping…

Time Out for Time Management.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herr, Judy; And Others

1995-01-01

Discusses time management skills, noting that effective time management entails awareness of such things as how we use time and when our mental energy peaks and falls. Offers time management suggestions for day-care administrators such as developing a realistic "to-do" list, scheduling uninterrupted time to engage in important tasks, and limiting…

Pyrethroid Pesticides and Their Metabolites in Vacuum Cleaner Dust Collected from Homes and Day-Care Centers

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of this study was to quantify the concentrations of 13 selected pyrethroid pesticides and their degradation products in samples of indoor dust that had been collected in vacuum cleaner bags during the Children's Total Exposure to Persistent Pesticides and Other Persis...

Collaboration with Other International Agencies in Community Development Programmes: The Nigerian Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ajayi, Christie Ade

1993-01-01

Provides an overview of the activities of the World Organization for Early Childhood Education in Nigeria in the areas of the development of grass-roots day-care centers, Van Leer Nigerian Education Trust activities, the training of nursery school teachers, and the celebration of Children's Day. (AC)

Stress and Caregiver Sensitivity among Childcare Staff in Santiago, Chile

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santelices, Maria Pia

2014-01-01

Background: This exploratory study examines the relationship between stress and caregiver sensitivity among non-parental childcare centre staff who attend Chilean daycare centres serving low-income children between 12- and 24-months-old. Method: Participants were 23 childcare providers (nine teachers and 14 childcare technicians) who were…

Windows: Life after Wire.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Razwick, Jerry

2003-01-01

Although wired glass is extremely common in school buildings, the International Building Code adopted new standards that eliminate the use of traditional wired glass in K-12 schools, daycare centers, and athletic facilities. Wired glass breaks easily, and the wires can cause significant injuries by forming dangerous snags when the glass breaks.…

NATIONAL SURVEYS OF MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS TO YOUNG CHILDREN IN HOMES AND CHILD CARE CENTERS

EPA Science Inventory

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has teamed with other federal agencies to characterize exposure of multiple environmental hazards to young children in two main indoor environments, homes and daycare centers. Under the co-sponsorship of HUD and the Nationa...

Emergent Literacy: A Polyphony of Perspectives. CIERA Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yaden, David B., Jr.; Rowe, Deborah W.; MacGillivray, Laurie

This paper reviews current developments in the field of emergent literacy (the study of reading and writing behaviors that develop into conventional literacy). The review includes studies that look at preschoolers' emerging literacy in homes, day-care environments, and kindergartens and that focus on children's development of literacy knowledge…

Everyday Pedagogical Practices in Mathematical Play Situations in German "Kindergarten"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandt, Birgit

2013-01-01

This study describes situations in German daycare facilities (Kindergarten) in which the development of mathematical thinking in children is specifically encouraged through examination of common play objects. Using micro-sociological methods of analysis, the mathematical potential of such interactions between teacher and child is elaborated within…

76 FR 66937 - Privacy Act of 1974; Department of Homeland Security/United States Secret Service-003 Non...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-28

... who carry concealed firearms. Categories of records in the system: Individual's name; Social Security..., private and public schools, daycare facilities, children's camps, and childcare transportation providers... activity regarding child pornography, the touching of a child for sexual gratification, or child abuse. N...

[Berufliche rehabilitation in der jugendpsychiatrie.].

PubMed

Spiel, Georg; Petscharnig, Joachim

2004-12-01

Vocational integration is an important developmental task that must be mastered if an adolescent is to function successfully in adult society. Moreover adolescence is a period of transition and rapid change, influenced by biological, psychological and social interactions. Not only adolescents with manifest psychiatric disorders, but also those with a combination of different symptoms which don't meet the requirements of a stable diagnosis, need context-sensitive support. In 1996 the youth-specific activities of pro mente Kärnten (an association offering different support to people with mental disorders) became a stand-alone association, dedicated to the special-needs of children's and adolescent's mental and social health. In the field of vocational rehabilitation, pro mente Jugend started with a 6-month (since 2001 12-month) prevocational training (Works) for 18 participants, financed by the Bundessozialamt and targeting a vocational integration after the course. This program proved helpful for adolescents with moderate handicaps and learning disabilities, whereas clients with severe mental disorders (e.g. psychosis and affective disorders) couldn't be supported adequately within 6 nor within 12 months. These people have shown the poorest vocational outcome. Therefore, rapid vocational integration is not a realistic aim for all clients. According to our experience, pro mente jugend makes efforts to develop and provide different out-patient services, bridging the broad transition from hospital based programs to the first labour market - corresponding to the special needs of the clients. At each level, different outcomes are targeted: there are day-care, work therapy and social participation, as well as prevocational training, apprenticeship, integration or transition employment. One of this modules already exists and offers apprenticeship to disadvantaged adolescents. A day-care center for clients with psychotic and affective disorders is being planned currently. For implementing this concept, pro mente Jugend will consider some principles: near to the clients needs and shared-decision making with them - based on ongoing assessment, diagnostic and planning; consumer-driven Case Management to provide the sufficient support in time; respecting people's right to work and addressing their strengths and preferences; empowerment and full participation. Because of the governments budgetary limits, we intend to cooperate with responsible parts of the civic society and companies, which are ready to engage in social activities.

Food- and health-related correlates of self-reported body mass index among low-income mothers of young children

PubMed Central

McCurdy, Karen; Kisler, Tiffani; Gorman, Kathleen S.; Metallinos-Katsaras, Elizabeth

2015-01-01

Objective Examine how income-related challenges around food and health are associated with variation in self-reported maternal body weight among low-income mothers. Design Cross-sectional, correlational design. Convenience sample recruited from 7 daycare centers and a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program outreach project. Maternal self-report data collected between October 2009 and May 2011. Setting Two Northeastern cities. Participants Sample of 166 mothers; 67% overweight or obese, 55% Hispanic, 42% reporting household food insecurity (HFI). Main Outcome Measures Maternal self-reported height and weight to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI). Independent variables: food program participation, supermarket use, 8-item food shopping practices scale, HFI, maternal depressive symptoms, self-rated health (SRH). Analysis Hierarchical multiple regression analysis tested relationships between maternal BMI with the independent variables of interest, adjusting for demographic confounds. Results Shopping practices to stretch food dollars (P = .04), using community food assistance programs (P < .05), and HFI (P < .04) correlated with heavier maternal BMIs; higher SRH corresponded to lower BMIs (P =.004). Conclusions and Implications Some strategies low-income mothers use to manage food resources are associated with heavier BMIs. Nutrition educators, public health practitioners, and researchers need to collaboratively address the associations between these strategies, food insecurity, poor health, and unhealthy weight. PMID:25794991

A Case for Community-Run Pre-Schools and Daycare Centres.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Renard, Rosamunde

This booklet advocates and describes the establishment of community run preschool and day care centers. The type described is based on the Laborie Community Education Centre in Saint Lucia, West Indies. Chapter 1 advocates establishing small, local institutions that are community managed, community owned, concerned with quality, and sustainable.…

Is Your Salary Schedule up to Speed?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neugebauer, Roger

1994-01-01

Presents four key questions for day-care center administrators to consider when evaluating their salary schedules: (1) what are we paying for?; (2) is our pay equitable?; (3) should we offer annual increases?; and (4) should we offer merit raises? Considers various issues raised by these questions, based upon an analysis of over 100 salary…

On Jorge Becoming a Boy: A Counselor's Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wright, Travis

2007-01-01

In this portrait, Travis Wright, writing as a psychology counselor in training, brings the reader into one morning's events in his clinical work with Jorge, a three-year-old boy whose family is experiencing difficult times. Throughout the morning at Jorge's day-care center, Wright encounters scenarios that force him to ask questions about child…

Rising Educational Expectations: Trends and Limits in Times of Economic Downturn

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hart, Doug; Livingstone, D. W.

2009-01-01

Advocates for education have seized upon the current economic downturn as an opportunity to advance their cause. If governments are poised for an attempt to spend their way out of a deep recession, what better target than underfunded educational institutions, from daycare to universities? Public support for increased spending on education is…

"Observation-Projet": A Professional Tool for Caregivers. Two Experiences in Italian Day-Care Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Molina, Paola; Marotta, Monica; Bulgarelli, Daniela

2016-01-01

Ability to reflect on practice is a key element of early childhood professionalism and is positively associated with the quality of educational services. "Observation-Projet" (Fontaine 2008, 2011b) is a method designed to support practitioners' reflection through the observational process. The method adapts the required scientific…

Togetherness--A Manifestation of Day Care Life.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hannikainen, Maritta

1999-01-01

This study used observations of quality of 5-year olds' lives in Danish, Finnish, and Swedish day-care centers to examine impact of adults on development of togetherness. Findings suggest that togetherness has to do with positive emotional relations. Article hypothesizes that togetherness may contribute to building of a real community of learners…

In Early Childhood: What's Language about?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mozere, Liane

2007-01-01

This paper argues that in daycare centres in France, where children are cared for from four months to age three, the competence of female staff members is usually denied and unvalued vis a vis the expert opinions. The paper highlights empirical research on early childhood and gender, providing pragmatic access to children's languages of desire, a…

Employers and Child Care: What Roles Do They Play?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hayghe, Howard V.

1988-01-01

The Bureau of Labor Statistics conducted a nationwide survey of approximately 10,000 businesses and government agencies in 1987. Results show that about 2 percent of employers sponsored day-care centers and 3 percent provide financial assistance toward expenses. However, employers are doing other things to aid employees with growing children. (JOW)

Nutritional Beliefs and Food Practices of Mexican-American Mothers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bowden, Shirley

In the locale of Hanford, California, this 1968 nutritional study was made to explore and evaluate the nutritional beliefs and food practices of Mexican American mothers among low-income agricultural working families. Some 35 mothers whose children attended the Hanford Child Day-Care Center were interviewed at home to determine family…

Information-Seeking in Family Day Care: Access, Quality and Personal Cost

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Corr, L.; Davis, E.; Cook, K.; Mackinnon, A.; Sims, M.; Herrman, H.

2014-01-01

Family day-care (FDC) educators work autonomously to provide care and education for children of mixed ages, backgrounds and abilities. To meet the demands and opportunities of their work and regulatory requirements, educators need access to context-relevant and high quality information. No previous research has examined how and where these workers…

Brief Report: Agreement between Parents and Day-Care Professionals on Early Symptoms Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Larsen, Kenneth; Aasland, Astrid; Diseth, Trond H.

2018-01-01

Early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) has the potential to elicit effective early intervention, improving children's level of functioning and developmental trajectories as well as reducing parental stress. Multiple sources of information, including several informants may facilitate early identification. This study examined the…

Early Childhood Safety Checklist #3: Kitchen and Food Preparation and Storage Areas.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aronson, Susan S.

1994-01-01

This checklist of 24 specific health and safety concerns dealing with kitchen and food preparation storage areas can be used by day-care staff to identify and correct hazardous conditions. Areas of concern include hand washing, refrigeration, cooking, trash disposal, cleanliness, fire safety, burn hazards, and adult supervision. (MDM)

Men Who Teach Young Children: An International Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brody, David

2014-01-01

Few men around the world work in daycare settings, nursery schools or kindergartens. Yet wherever they are found, men who are perceived to have crossed the gender boundary in their choice of profession are widely acclaimed as gifted educators and excellent caregivers. Policy makers who care about providing quality education for young children need…

AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF THE POTENTIAL EXPOSURES OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN TO PENTACHLOROPHENOL, BISPHENOL-A, AND NONYLPHENOL AT HOME AND DAYCARE

EPA Science Inventory

The Children's Total Exposure to Persistent Pesticides and Other Persistent Organic Pollutants (CTEPP) study investigated the potential exposures of 257 preschool children, ages 1 1/2 to 5 yr, and their primary adult caregivers to more than 50 anthropogenic chemicals. Field samp...

Daily Welcoming in Childcare Centre as a Microtransition: An Exploratory Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Venturelli, Elena; Cigala, Ada

2016-01-01

This study focuses on the everyday morning microtransition in childcare centres that involves child-parent separation. This moment involves the contemporary presence of the child, caregiver and parent in the day-care centre. This coexistence is considered extremely relevant and full of important meanings for the interactive patterns they will…

Toddler Social Development in Two Daycare Settings.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howes, Carollee; Rubenstein, Judith

This study investigated the child rearing environments in 8 community based day care centers and 16 family day care homes and the social competencies of the toddlers enrolled in them. Subjects were forty 19-month-old toddlers from similar backgrounds, half in each type of day care. Socially directed behaviors between the toddler and peers, and…

Cultural Diversity in Center-Based Childcare: Childrearing Beliefs of Professional Caregivers from Different Cultural Communities in the Netherlands

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huijbregts, S. K.; Leseman, P. P. M.; Tavecchio, L. W. C.

2008-01-01

The present study investigated the cultural childrearing beliefs of 116 caregivers from different cultural communities in the Netherlands (Dutch, Caribbean-Dutch, and Mediterranean-Dutch), working with 2-4-year-olds in daycare centers. Cultural childrearing beliefs were assessed with standard questionnaires, focusing on general and…

Food Sanitation and Safety Self-assessment Instrument for Family Day-Care Homes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

1990

This self-assessment instrument for family day care providers is designed to help caregivers provide safe food to children. The eight sections of the instrument, presented in checklist format, concern: (1) personal hygiene; (2) purchasing and inspecting of food; (3) food storage; (4) kitchen equipment; (5) food preparation; (6) infant food…

The Child Diary as a Research Tool

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lamsa, Tiina; Ronka, Anna; Poikonen, Pirjo-Liisa; Malinen, Kaisa

2012-01-01

The aim of this article is to introduce the use of the child diary as a method in daily diary research. By describing the research process and detailing its structure, a child diary, a structured booklet in which children's parents and day-care personnel (N = 54 children) reported their observations, was evaluated. The participants reported the…

Making a Place for Nona: Meeting the Needs of Homeless Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boxill, Nancy A.

1994-01-01

Discusses the dilemmas that homeless children face and what day-care center staff can do to help meet the needs of such children, including providing consistency in homeless children's lives; providing basic necessities such as food, sleep, and privacy and showing a willingness to develop a normal relationship with homeless children. (MDM)

Prevalence of Fractures in Women with Intellectual Disabilities: A Chart Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schrager, S.; Kloss, C.; Ju, A. W.

2007-01-01

Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated high rates of osteoporosis and fractures in women with intellectual disabilities (IDs). All of the studies use either institutionalized women or women in the community recruited at adult day-care centres or specialty clinics. We examined the prevalence of fractures in women with IDs who attend a…

Experiences of Daycare Children of Divorce

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Storksen, Ingunn; Thorsen, Arlene Arstad; Overland, Klara; Brown, Steven R.

2012-01-01

Research shows that children of divorce are at risk of adjustment problems and school problems. In previous studies of young children of divorce, most often parents or teachers have supplied data. In this study, we explore the children's own feelings and experiences through Q methodology with visual images. The study includes 17 children of…

Norway's Day-Care Initiative: A Municipal Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nemeth, Beate; Lokken, Gisle

2012-01-01

Norway is gearing up to provide places in day care centres for all children aged between one and six and the need for more facilities has therefore increased substantially in recent years. In Tromso, the municipality has become closely involved in child-care pedagogics and architecture; a design competition it launched has brought rewarding…

Never Too Early to Learn: Antibias Education for Young Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hooven, Jennifer; Runkle, Katherine; Strouse, Laurie; Woods, Misty; Frankenberg, Erica

2018-01-01

Four early childhood educators, along with a university researcher, describe their efforts to implement an antiracist, antibias curriculum in a daycare and preschool setting. Even very young children can learn important lessons about race, diversity, and equity, they argue, and teachers should not shy away from addressing these issues at staff…

Maternal Socialization and Child Temperament as Predictors of Emotion Regulation in Turkish Preschoolers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yagmurlu, Bilge; Altan, Ozge

2010-01-01

This study investigated the role of maternal socialization and temperament in Turkish preschool children's emotion regulation. Participants consisted of 145 preschoolers (79 boys, 69 girls; M[subscript age]= 62 months), their mothers, and daycare teachers from middle-high socioeconomic suburbs of Istanbul. Maternal child-rearing practices and…

Middle ear effusion in children and the indoor environment: an epidemiological study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Iversen, M.; Birch, L.; Lundqvist, G.R.

Very low air infiltration rates have been found in new Danish day-care institutions built according to the energy conservation measures enforced in the Building Regulations. Complaints from staff in institutions have been numerous, e.g., mainly eyes and upper airways problems. Formaldehyde has been recognized as a causal factor in some cases. Extensive retrofitting has occurred in Denmark for energy conservation reasons. This will lower the air infiltration rates in dwellings and possibly create higher levels of pollutants produced indoors. A prospective study of 337 children was carried out during a 3-month period. The purpose of the study was to evaluatemore » the importance of indoor environmental factors in homes and day-care institutions for the incidence of middle ear effusion (MEE). The indoor environmental factors measured in institutions were carbon dioxide, temperature, and relative humidity. Conditions in the homes were assessed by a questionnaire. Middle ear effusion was measured by tympanometry. No relationship was found between indoor environmental factors and MEE, with the exception of parental smoking at home, which increased the frequency of MEE in children.« less

Human milk reduces outpatient upper respiratory symptoms in premature infants during their first year of life.

PubMed

Blaymore Bier, Jo-Ann; Oliver, Tanya; Ferguson, Anne; Vohr, Betty R

2002-01-01

To determine if ingestion of human milk after discharge reduces symptoms of infections in premature infants. Follow-up of 39 infants with birth weights <2000 g, 24 of whom received any amount of human milk and 15 of whom received only formula after discharge, was carried out. Mothers were given a calendar on which they recorded any signs of infections and feeding and day-care information. Data were collected at 1 month after discharge and at 3, 7, and 12 months corrected age. Results show no differences between groups in birth weight, gestation, gender, maternal age, parental tobacco use, number of siblings, and day-care attendance. Socioeconomic status score was higher in the human milk group. Infants who received human milk had fewer days of upper respiratory symptoms at 1 month after discharge (p<0.025) and at 7 months corrected age (p<0.025). Ingestion of human milk post discharge is associated with a reduction of upper respiratory symptoms in premature infants during their first year of life.

Social determinants of aggression in a sample of Chinese primary school children.

PubMed

Ekblad, S

1986-05-01

The aim of the present study was to relate children's aggression levels to social determinants of interest (i.e., child-rearing measures, day-care attendance, peer group influence, and TV-watching) in a sample of Chinese children in the People's Republic of China. A sample of 290 primary school students (155 boys and 135 girls, mean age 10.3) in grade four in Beijing were investigated using the Multi-Faceted Aggression Inventory. The children's parents were asked about child-rearing measures and day-care experience for the child. Teachers rated the children's aggression, school achievement level, and membership in the Young Pioneers. Despite acknowledged limitations, the findings in this study gave evidence that according to a person-environment interaction perspective, the Chinese children's individual differences in aggression were influenced by the restricted environment. As aggressive behaviour is undesired and suppressed in the Chinese culture in and outside the home, the Chinese children seemed to show lower levels and less variation of aggression behaviour than children in permissive environments (e.g., Sweden). However, when analysing sex differences in aggression environmental influences alone might not explain the differences.

Dental caries prevalence in children up to 36 months of age attending daycare centers in municipalities with different water fluoride content.

PubMed

Tiano, Ana Valéria Pagliari; Moimaz, Suzely Adas Saliba; Saliba, Orlando; Saliba, Nemre Adas

2009-01-01

This study determined the prevalence of cavitated caries lesions (CCL) and early childhood caries (ECC), and the contribution of some variables in children up to 36 months of age attending daycare centers in municipalities with different fluoride levels in the water supply: AFC (adequate fluoride content) and LFC (low fluoride content). After approval of the Ethics Committee, the parents were interviewed. The children were clinically examined using the same codes and criteria established by the WHO (World Health Organization) and the ADA (American Dental Association). Fisher's exact test (p<0.05) was applied for statistical analysis of data. The dmft indices calculated in the LFC and AFC municipalities were 0.57 and 0.68, respectively. Considering all children examined, 17.6% presented CCL and 33.8% ECC. The economic classification, mother's education level and duration of breastfeeding were considered statistically significant with regards to CCL prevalence. The age group, duration of the habit of drinking milk before bedtime and age at which oral hygiene started were considered statistically significant with regards to ECC prevalence.

Seasonal variation, weather and behavior in day-care children: a multilevel approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciucci, Enrica; Calussi, Pamela; Menesini, Ersilia; Mattei, Alessandra; Petralli, Martina; Orlandini, Simone

2013-11-01

This study analyzes the effect of weather variables, such as solar radiation, indoor and outdoor air temperature, relative humidity and time spent outdoor, on the behavior of 2-year-old children and their affects across different seasons: winter, spring and summer. Participants were a group of 61 children (33 males and 28 females) attending four day-care centers in Florence (Central Italy). Mean age of children at the beginning of the study was 24.1 months ( SD = 3.6). We used multilevel linear analyses to account for the hierarchical structure of our data. The study analyzed the following behavioral variables: Activity Level, Attentional Focusing, Frustration, and Aggression. Results showed a different impact of some weather variables on children’s behavior across seasons, indicating that the weather variable that affects children’s behavior is usually the one that shows extreme values during the studied seasons, such as air temperature and relative humidity in winter and summer. Studying children and their reactions to weather conditions could have potentially wide-reaching implications for parenting and teaching practices, as well as for researchers studying social relationships development.

Avoiding Biased-Feeding in the Scheduling of Collaborative Multipath TCP.

PubMed

Tsai, Meng-Hsun; Chou, Chien-Ming; Lan, Kun-Chan

2016-01-01

Smartphones have become the major communication and portable computing devices that access the Internet through Wi-Fi or mobile networks. Unfortunately, users without a mobile data subscription can only access the Internet at limited locations, such as hotspots. In this paper, we propose a collaborative bandwidth sharing protocol (CBSP) built on top of MultiPath TCP (MPTCP). CBSP enables users to buy bandwidth on demand from neighbors (called Helpers) and uses virtual interfaces to bind the subflows of MPTCP to avoid modifying the implementation of MPTCP. However, although MPTCP provides the required multi-homing functionality for bandwidth sharing, the current packet scheduling in collaborative MPTCP (e.g., Co-MPTCP) leads to the so-called biased-feeding problem. In this problem, the fastest link might always be selected to send packets whenever it has available cwnd, which results in other links not being fully utilized. In this work, we set out to design an algorithm, called Scheduled Window-based Transmission Control (SWTC), to improve the performance of packet scheduling in MPTCP, and we perform extensive simulations to evaluate its performance.

Consistent Steering System using SCTP for Bluetooth Scatternet Sensor Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhaya, R.; Sadasivam, V.; Kanthavel, R.

2012-12-01

Wireless communication is the best way to convey information from source to destination with flexibility and mobility and Bluetooth is the wireless technology suitable for short distance. On the other hand a wireless sensor network (WSN) consists of spatially distributed autonomous sensors to cooperatively monitor physical or environmental conditions, such as temperature, sound, vibration, pressure, motion or pollutants. Using Bluetooth piconet wireless technique in sensor nodes creates limitation in network depth and placement. The introduction of Scatternet solves the network restrictions with lack of reliability in data transmission. When the depth of the network increases, it results in more difficulties in routing. No authors so far focused on the reliability factors of Scatternet sensor network's routing. This paper illustrates the proposed system architecture and routing mechanism to increase the reliability. The another objective is to use reliable transport protocol that uses the multi-homing concept and supports multiple streams to prevent head-of-line blocking. The results show that the Scatternet sensor network has lower packet loss even in the congestive environment than the existing system suitable for all surveillance applications.

An overview of the DII-HEP OpenStack based CMS data analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osmani, L.; Tarkoma, S.; Eerola, P.; Komu, M.; Kortelainen, M. J.; Kraemer, O.; Lindén, T.; Toor, S.; White, J.

2015-05-01

An OpenStack based private cloud with the Cluster File System has been built and used with both CMS analysis and Monte Carlo simulation jobs in the Datacenter Indirection Infrastructure for Secure High Energy Physics (DII-HEP) project. On the cloud we run the ARC middleware that allows running CMS applications without changes on the job submission side. Our test results indicate that the adopted approach provides a scalable and resilient solution for managing resources without compromising on performance and high availability. To manage the virtual machines (VM) dynamically in an elastic fasion, we are testing the EMI authorization service (Argus) and the Execution Environment Service (Argus-EES). An OpenStackplugin has been developed for Argus-EES. The Host Identity Protocol (HIP) has been designed for mobile networks and it provides a secure method for IP multihoming. HIP separates the end-point identifier and locator role for IP address which increases the network availability for the applications. Our solution leverages HIP for traffic management. This presentation gives an update on the status of the work and our lessons learned in creating an OpenStackbased cloud for HEP.

Avoiding Biased-Feeding in the Scheduling of Collaborative Multipath TCP

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Smartphones have become the major communication and portable computing devices that access the Internet through Wi-Fi or mobile networks. Unfortunately, users without a mobile data subscription can only access the Internet at limited locations, such as hotspots. In this paper, we propose a collaborative bandwidth sharing protocol (CBSP) built on top of MultiPath TCP (MPTCP). CBSP enables users to buy bandwidth on demand from neighbors (called Helpers) and uses virtual interfaces to bind the subflows of MPTCP to avoid modifying the implementation of MPTCP. However, although MPTCP provides the required multi-homing functionality for bandwidth sharing, the current packet scheduling in collaborative MPTCP (e.g., Co-MPTCP) leads to the so-called biased-feeding problem. In this problem, the fastest link might always be selected to send packets whenever it has available cwnd, which results in other links not being fully utilized. In this work, we set out to design an algorithm, called Scheduled Window-based Transmission Control (SWTC), to improve the performance of packet scheduling in MPTCP, and we perform extensive simulations to evaluate its performance. PMID:27529783

Educational intervention to improve adherence to the Mediterranean diet among parents and their children aged 1-2 years. EniM clinical trial.

PubMed

Roset-Salla, Margarita; Ramon-Cabot, Joana; Salabarnada-Torras, Jordi; Pera, Guillem; Dalmau, Albert

2016-04-01

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational programme on healthy alimentation, carried out in day-care centres and aimed at the parents of children from 1 to 2 years of age, regarding the acquisition of healthy eating habits among themselves and their children. We performed a multicentre, multidisciplinary, randomized controlled study in a community setting. The EniM study (nutritional intervention study among children from Mataró) was performed in twelve day-care centres in Mataró (Spain). Centres were randomized into a control group (CG) and an intervention group (IG). IG received four or five educational workshops on diet, CG did not have workshops. Children, not exclusively breast-fed, from 1 to 2 years of age, in the participating day-care centres and the persons responsible for their alimentation (mother or father). Thirty-five per cent of the IG did not attend the minimum of three workshops and were excluded. The CG included seventy-four children and seventy-two parents and the IG seventy-five children and sixty-seven parents. Both groups were comparable at baseline. Basal adherence to the Mediterranean diet was 56·4 % in parents (Gerber index) and 7·7 points in children (Kidmed test). At 8 months, Mediterranean diet adherence had improved in the IG by 5·8 points in the Gerber index (P=0·01) and 0·6 points in the Kidmed test (P=0·02) compared with the CG. This educational intervention performed in parents at the key period of incorporation of a 1-2-year-old child to the family table showed significant increases in adherence of the parents to the Mediterranean diet, suggesting future improvement in different indicators of health and an expected influence on the diet of their children.

"Daddy Daycare," Daffy Duck, and Salvador Dali: Popular Culture and Children's Art Viewing Experiences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eckhoff, Angela; Guberman, Steven

2006-01-01

In contemporary society, what, why, and how students come to gain knowledge and understandings of art defies traditional boundaries. In part, this is because of the prevalence of many forms of popular visual culture. In this article, the authors present three vignettes that demonstrate the ways in which three young children created connections…

Conditional Discriminations by Preverbal Children in an Identity Matching-to-Sample Task

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

de Alcantara Gil, Maria Stella C.; de Oliveira, Thais Porlan; McIlvane, William J.

2011-01-01

This study sought to develop methodology for assessing whether children ages 16-21 months could learn to match stimuli on the basis of physical identity in conditional discrimination procedures routinely used in stimulus equivalence research with older participants. The study was conducted in a private room at a day-care center for children and…

The Trouble with Title XX: A Review of Child Daycare Policy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morgan, Gwen G.

This discussion of government policy concerning child day care calls for a shift from provider-oriented to consumer-oriented services funded under Title XX of the Social Security Amendments. Three general views of child day care are described: the social services view, the school-oriented view, and a newer, parent-supportive, consumer-oriented…

Comparison of Ratings by Mothers and Teachers on Preschool Children Using the Vineland Social Maturity Scale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaplan, Harriett E.; Alatishe, Moses

1976-01-01

Comparison of informants' ratings of 20 preschool children on the VSMS showed no significant correlations between either the social quotients or the rankings by mothers and daycare center teachers. Of significance was that the mothers consistently reported the social quotients of the children to be higher than did the teachers. (Author)

Intervening with High-Risk Families via Infant Daycare.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramey, Craig T.; Farran, Dale C.

A longitudinal study was conducted at the Frank Porter Graham Center NC to explore the use of educational day care and related services as a mechanism for preparing socially disadvantaged children for success in later public schooling. Infant children of mothers who met a criterion score on a high risk index were randomly assigned to either an…

Sex-Role Stereotypes and Behaviors in Young Children: Inservice Teacher Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schau, Candace Garrett; Busch, Judith W.

This report examines the results of a study designed to compare various aspects of sex role development among upper middle, middle, and lower class white and Spanish language heritage children in three different preschool daycare centers. The 168 children studied ranged in age from 30 months to six-and-a-half years. Measuring instruments were…

Children's Play Behaviour and Social Communication in Integrated Special Day-Care Groups

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Suhonen, Eira; Nislin, Mari A.; Alijoki, Alisa; Sajaniemi, Nina K.

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate children's social communication abilities and play to reveal possible changes during a one year period in the context of Finnish early childhood special education. The data we collected during 2012-2013 consisted of assessments of play behaviour (Preschool Play Behavior Scale) and social communication…

The Effects of Otitis Media on the Attention Skills of Day-Care-Attending Toddlers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feagans, Lynne V.; And Others

1994-01-01

Investigated whether otitis media (OM), middle ear disease, affected toddlers' attention to language. Children were studied during a picture book-reading task at high- or low-quality day-care centers. Children with chronic OM in low-quality care showed the most negative effects on attention during episodes of OM; mothers rated children with…

Working by the Rules: Early Childhood Professionals' Perceptions of Regulatory Requirements

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fenech, M.; Robertson, G.; Sumsion, J.; Goodfellow, J.

2007-01-01

The regulatory environment in which long daycare centres are required to operate plays a key role in determining what early childhood professionals do and how they go about doing it. This paper reports findings from a state-wide survey undertaken in New South Wales, Australia, which shows how early childhood professionals position themselves on…

Whose Hand Rocks the Cradle? Parallel Discourses in the Baby Room

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Powell, Sacha; Goouch, Kathy

2012-01-01

This article explores the practice narratives of a group of 25 caregivers who work with babies in daycare settings in England and seeks to illustrate awareness of, resistance to and compliance with powerful discourses. It is argued that multiple voices exert an influence over baby room practice, disempowering the caregivers and reducing their…

Grandma, Mommy, and Me: Intergenerational Living

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duffy, Roslyn

2008-01-01

Intergenerational living has become common. Single adults move back into the family home, due to finances or perhaps the need for child care. A 24-hour workforce, from nurses to grocery clerks to military deployment has turned "day"care needs into both "night and day" care crises. Unemployment, lack of health care or home foreclosures, as well as…

Bildung, Erziehung [Education] and Care in German Early Childhood Settings--Spotlights on Current Discourses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frindte, Annegret; Mierendorff, Johanna

2017-01-01

In German there is a long tradition of institutionalized daycare center-based early education. These institutions are concerned with "Bildung, Erziehung und Betreuung"--the education and care of children up to six years of age. Education and childrearing as well as care are all important but separate processes in German early childhood…

Preschoolers' Physical Activity Participation across a Yearlong Mastery-Motivational Climate Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wadsworth, Danielle D.; Rudisill, Mary E.; Hastie, Peter A.; Irwin, Jacqueline M.; Rodriguez-Hernandez, Mynor G.

2017-01-01

Purpose: This study sought to determine how children's participation in physical activity during a mastery-motivational climate changed during a 20-week intervention and to compare it to children's free-play activity during a typical day at their local day-care facility. Method: Twelve 4-year-old children participated in a mastery-motivational…

The Effect of Art Therapy on Cognitive Performance among Ethnically Diverse Older Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pike, Amanda Alders

2013-01-01

This study examined the effect of art therapy on the cognitive performance of a multisite, ethnically diverse sample ("N" = 91) of older adults. Participants were recruited from several U.S. facilities that included a community center, a retirement center, an adult daycare, an assisted living facility, and a skilled nursing facility.…

Peripheral nerve blocks for paediatric day-stay surgery: one year's experience in a district general hospital.

PubMed Central

Keohane, M.; McAuley, D.; Ardill, A. C.

1995-01-01

Two hundred children underwent day-care surgery using peripheral nerve blockade as an adjunct to general anaesthesia during a twelve month period. Total post-operative analgesia was achieved in 86%, simple oral analgesia was needed in 9% and the remaining 5% of patients required systemic opiate administration for pain. PMID:7502400

Day Care Experiences and the Development of Conflict Strategies in Young Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Singer, Elly; Van Hoogdalem, Anne-Greth; De Haan, Dorian; Bekkema, Nienke

2012-01-01

This paper presents a study of learning experiences in peer conflicts among two- and three-year-olds in Dutch daycare centres. Data were collected from individual sampling of 96 children during their free play. As in earlier studies, the results we obtained showed that three-year-olds used fewer unilateral strategies and more bilateral strategies…

Literacy Research and Practice: Foundations for the Year 2000: Fourteenth Yearbook of the College Reading Association.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Padak, Nancy D., Ed.; And Others

This 1992 yearbook presents the following 26 articles: "Tensions between Numbers and Knowing: A Study of Changes in Assessment during Implementation of Literature-Based Reading Instruction" (P. L. Scharer); "Story Reading in Daycare: A Help or a Hindrance?" (F. K. Hurley); "Preservice Teachers' Reminiscences of Positive and Negative Reading…

Exposures of 129 preschool children to organochlorines, organophosphates, pyrethroids, and acid herbicides at their homes and daycares in North Carolina

EPA Science Inventory

Few data exist on the concurrent exposures of young children to past-use and current-use pesticides in their everyday environments. In this further analysis of study data, we quantified the potential exposures and intake doses of 129 preschool children, ages 20 to 66 months, to 1...

Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder in Underserved Communities: Early Childcare Providers as Reporters

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Janvier, Yvette M.; Harris, Jill F.; Coffield, Caroline N.; Louis, Barbara; Xie, Ming; Cidav, Zuleyha; Mandell, David S.

2016-01-01

Early diagnosis of autism typically is associated with earlier access to intervention and improved outcomes. Daycares and preschools largely have been ignored as possible venues for early identification. This may be especially important for minority children in the United States who are typically diagnosed with autism later than White children,…

Discourses of Childhood Safety: What Do Children Say?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Kylie

2014-01-01

This article will report on a project, which consulted children about their understandings of safety in relation to the people and places in their lives. Thirty-nine children aged between three and five years attending preschool and long day-care services reflected on their experiences of what is safe and unsafe in their world through dialogue,…

AMTA Monograph Series - Effective Clinical Practice in Music Therapy Early Childhood and School Age Educational Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Humpal, Marcia Earl, Ed.; Colwell, Cynthia, Ed.

2006-01-01

Educators, families, and media in increasing numbers are recognizing the unique role music plays in young children's development. More and more daycare, preschool, and early intervention centers offer employment opportunities that reflect the needs and attitudes of our ever-changing society. Furthermore, Federal and state regulations, a changing…

"Where Do We Find the Time to Do This?" Struggling against the Tyranny of Time

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rose, Sherry; Whitty, Pam

2010-01-01

For the past five years, the University of New Brunswick (UNB) Early Childhood Centre, working with childcare educators, has been researching, piloting, and developing curriculum materials and workshops for infants, toddlers, and other children. As we move in and out of university and daycare spaces where "people are not equally located"…

Stewpot Pre-School Feasibility Study. Daycare Planning Guidelines: A Pre-School for Stewpot Community Services.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jacob, Paul; Poros, John

The Education Design Institute developed a series of tearsheets that were used as part of a feasibility study for a pre-school. The tearsheets, which aid designers in planning pre-school environments, outline educational objectives; optimum square foot standards; general environmental concerns; and furniture and equipment for infant, toddler, and…

Komatsudani Then and Now: Continuity and Change in a Japanese Preschool

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tobin, Joseph; Karasawa, Mayumi; Hsueh, Yeh

2004-01-01

In this article the reflections of the teachers and directors of Komatsudani Hoikuen ("day-care center") on a video the authors recently made at their preschool are used to explore processes of continuity and change in Japanese preschool education over the course of a generation. The social changes that are associated with changing…

Understanding Mothers' Experiences of Infant Daycare: A New Approach Using Computer-Assisted Analysis of Qualitative Data.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rolfe, Sharne; And Others

This paper reports on a small-scale introductory study of Australian mothers' experiences of infant day care. Ten employed, middle- and lower-socioeconomic status women with an infant in center-based day care were interviewed. Brief narrative examples from the mothers' accounts are presented. Discussion then concentrates on a new approach to…

Caregiver Behaviors and Adaptive Behavior Development of Very Young Children in Home Care and Daycare.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Altman, Jennifer Schroer; Mills, Belen Collantes

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of home-mother care and day care caregiver behaviors on the adaptive behavior development of infants between 18 and 24 months of age. Other variables under investigation included two indices of socioeconomic status: occupation and education of parents. The sample consisted of 72 children.…

Teaching Early Knowledge of Whole Number Concepts through Technology: Findings from a Feasibility Study of an iPad Delivered Kindergarten Mathematics Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shanley, Lina; Cary, Mari Strand; Clarke, Ben; Jungjohann, Kathy

2013-01-01

Children enter kindergarten with variable levels of mathematics skill and knowledge gained from informal learning opportunities at home, preschool, and daycare. Many perform well once they receive formal mathematics instruction. However, if students do not develop an initial understanding of the most basic aspects of formal mathematics, they are…

Unvarnished Documentation: A Dialogue between Teacher and Parent in Understanding a Child's "Bad" Behavior

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Laughlin, Liana; Turner, Terri

2014-01-01

Teachers are often asked to fill out progress reports that include check marks indicating if a child has met certain criteria. While this document offers a superficial glance at knowing a child, it is often the only kind of "assessment" a parent receives. The authors, a daycare teacher and a parent of Rosa, "the mean girl" in…

Creating Healthy Families through Shared Physical Activity and Nutritionally Sound Meals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Robinson, Cheryl Malone; McNulty, Betty; McCoy, Merwin A.; Johnston, Linda

2012-01-01

Families today are very busy: parents hurry to jobs, workouts, school, church, and a plethora of other commitments and children are often hurried off to school or daycare. As a result, quality time for families seems to be scarce. Mealtimes, during which the family members sit down together for a relaxed time of eating and sharing, may be a thing…

High-Quality Interactions with Infants: Relationships with Early-Childhood Practitioners' Interpretations and Qualification Levels in Play and Routine Contexts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Degotardi, Sheila

2010-01-01

This study investigated factors related to the quality of early-childhood practitioners' interactions with infants in play and routine contexts. Participants were 24 practitioners working with 9-20-month-old infants in long day-care infant programmes. Video-recordings of their interactions with a nominated infant during play and in routine…

Prevalence and Clinical Presentation of Constipation in Children with Severe Generalized Cerebral Palsy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Veugelers, Rebekka; Benninga, Marc A.; Calis, Elsbeth A. C.; Willemsen, Sten P.; Evenhuis, Heleen; Tibboel, Dick; Penning, Corine

2010-01-01

Aim: Our aim was to study the prevalence and characteristics of constipation in children with profound multiple disabilities, as data in this area are scarce. Method: A cross-sectional observational study was performed in specialized day-care centres and schools in the Netherlands. The study included 152 children (81 males, 71 females; mean age 9y…

Well-Being and Human-Animal Interactions in Schools: The Case of "Dog Daycare Co-Op"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinto, Laura Elizabeth; Foulkes, Donna

2015-01-01

This study draws on Martha Nussbaum's (2000) account of the nature of human well-being in order to explore the role of animals in formal education settings. Nussbaum's capabilities approach identifies the ability "to have concern for and live with other animals, plants and the environment" (p. 80) as a necessary component for well-being.…

Our Bodies, Our Cells: Children's Activities in Body Systems. Children's Activity Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cahn, Marilyn

The supplemental teaching resources provided in this book offer a variety of concrete, visual activities designed to help classroom and daycare center teachers introduce children to the human body and the way it is organized. An analogy comparing human body parts to house parts is used throughout the book to make lessons clear and age-appropriate.…

Two Generations of Maternal Alcohol Abuse: Impact on Cognitive Levels in Mothers and Their Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dumaret, Annick-Camille; Cousin, Melanie; Titran, Maurice

2010-01-01

Transgenerational effects of alcohol on mothers' and children's intellectual functioning has been examined in 22 families from very deprived environments. Their psychosocial outcomes and IQ level were evaluated in a follow-up study on average seven years after they left the support group of a day-care centre for young children; school data were…

The Politics of Daycare: The Comprehensive Child Development Act of 1971. Discussion Papers 369-76.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roth, William

This paper reviews the history leading up to the presentation of the Comprehensive Child Development Act of 1971, its passage in Congress, and the reasons it was ultimately vetoed. The Act, commonly known as Mondale-Brademas, was designed to establish a comprehensive system of child care. The welfare situation was an important part of the history…

Outdoor Day-Care Centres--A Culturalization of Nature: How Do Children Relate to Nature as Educational Practice?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Melhuus, E. Cathrine

2012-01-01

This article will discuss how children and adults experience a certain outdoor environment as part of an educational practice, through the activities the adults and children have. It will further discuss how these activities realize cultural values through the educators' and children's activities. In Norway the use of outdoor environments has…

Orchestrating Professional Development for Baby Room Practitioners: Raising the Stakes in New Dialogic Encounters

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goouch, Kathleen; Powell, Sacha

2013-01-01

This article has emerged from a research and development project, The Baby Room, which was designed to examine how babies are cared for in daycare settings. Within the project, a form of professional development was created which designated a central space for dialogic encounter, primarily to enable the baby room practitioners who participated in…

Wood Block and Toy Project. Designed for Diversely-Abled Senior Volunteers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dugan, Willis E.

This document describes a volunteer work project designed for nursing home and day-care center persons with minimal physical skills. Potential users of the project are cautioned to plan carefully for the host location where the project will be conducted, as the location must be easily accessible to older adults who may be handicapped and who may…

Outbreak of Ciprofloxacin-Resistant Shigella sonnei Associated with Travel to Vietnam, Republic of Korea.

PubMed

Kim, Jin Seok; Kim, Jae Joon; Kim, Soo Jin; Jeon, Se-Eun; Seo, Ki Yeon; Choi, Jun-Kil; Kim, Nan-Ok; Hong, Sahyun; Chung, Gyung Tae; Yoo, Cheon-Kwon; Kim, Young-Taek; Cheun, Hyeng Il; Bae, Geun-Ryang; Yeo, Yeong-Hee; Ha, Gang-Ja; Choi, Mi-Suk; Kang, Shin-Jung; Kim, Junyoung

2015-07-01

We investigated an October 2014 outbreak of illness caused by Shigella sonnei in a daycare center in the Republic of Korea (South Korea). The outbreak strain was resistant to extended-spectrum cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones and was traced to a child who had traveled to Vietnam. Improved hygiene and infection control practices are needed for prevention of shigellosis.

Preschool-Age Problem Behavior and Teacher-Child Conflict in School: Direct and Moderation Effects by Preschool Organization

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skalická, Vera; Belsky, Jay; Stenseng, Frode; Wichstrøm, Lars

2015-01-01

The hypothesis was tested that the new open-group Norwegian day-care centers would more than traditionally organized centers negatively affect (a) current and (b) future teacher-child relationships, and (c) the developmental legacy of preschool problem behavior. The focus was on eight hundred and fifty 4-year-olds from 153 centers who were…

Evaluation of exposure to lead from drinking water in large buildings.

PubMed

Deshommes, Elise; Andrews, Robert C; Gagnon, Graham; McCluskey, Tim; McIlwain, Brad; Doré, Evelyne; Nour, Shokoufeh; Prévost, Michèle

2016-08-01

Lead results from 78,971 water samples collected in four Canadian provinces from elementary schools, daycares, and other large buildings using regulatory and investigative sampling protocols were analyzed to provide lead concentration distributions. Maximum concentrations reached 13,200 and 3890 μg/L following long and short stagnation periods respectively. High lead levels were persistent in some large buildings, reflected by high median values considering all taps, or specific to a few taps in the building. Simulations using the Integrated Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) model and lead concentrations after 30 min of stagnation in the dataset showed that, for most buildings, exposure to lead at the tap does not increase children's blood lead levels (BLLs). However, buildings or taps with extreme concentrations represent a significant health risk to young children attending school or daycare, as the estimated BLL far exceeded the 5 μg/dL threshold. Ingestion of water from specific taps could lead to acute exposure. Finally, for a few taps, the total daily lead intake reached the former World Health Organization (WHO) tolerable level for adults, suggesting potential health risks. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Testing for lead in toys at day care centers.

PubMed

Sanders, Martha; Stolz, Julie; Chacon-Baker, Ashley

2013-01-01

Exposure to lead-based paint or material has been found to impact children's cognitive and behavioral development at blood lead levels far below current standards. The purpose of the project was to screen for lead in toy items in daycare centers in order to raise awareness of inside environmental lead exposures and minimize lead-based exposures for children. Occupational therapy students in a service learning class tested for lead in ten daycare or public centers using the XRF Thermo Scientific Niton XL3t, a method accepted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). A total of 460 items were tested over a two-month period for an average of 66 toys per setting. Fifty six (56) items tested > 100 ppm, which represented 12% of the entire sample. Items with high lead levels included selected toys constructed with lead-based paint, lead metals, plastics using lead as a color enhancer, and decorative objects. While the actual number of lead-based products is small, the cumulative exposure or habitual use may pose an unnecessary risk to children. Indoor exposures occurred for all day care centers regardless of socio-economic levels. Recommendations to minimize exposures are provided.

[Technique-based game for daycare visitors with and without dementia : Effects, heuristics and correlates].

PubMed

Ehret, S; Putze, F; Miller-Teynor, H; Kruse, A; Schultz, T

2017-01-01

Playing of old people with or without dementia have not yet been substantially investigated. This study deals with the acceptance and impact of a tablet-based memory game, which was played on a weekly or semiweekly basis by visitors in two daycare units. Within the framework of focus groups the technical system was adapted for elderly users. The video-assisted data at the level of the game and the dynamics were investigated with respect to interaction and communication. The analysis of psychological observation forms and game protocols, which were conducted over a period of 3 months, indicated different effects of the game on psychosocial and cognitive activation. The individual memory cards in particular served as an intensification of communication and a stimulation of episodic memory. Finally, with video analysis during the whole game setting three theoretical relationship patterns of the spheres playing and speech could be depicted. Coherence, separation and incoherence of playing and speech are different forms of interaction in which individual and collaborative competences of people with and without dementia can be visualized. Furthermore, the study provides evidence for the cultural theory of playing by Huizinga.

Correlating parenting styles with child behavior and caries.

PubMed

Howenstein, Jeff; Kumar, Ashok; Casamassimo, Paul S; McTigue, Dennis; Coury, Daniel; Yin, Han

2015-01-01

This study evaluated the relationship between parenting style, sociodemographic data, caries status, and child's behavior during the first dental visit. Parents/legal guardians of new patients aged three to six years presenting to Nationwide Children's Hospital dental clinic for an initial examination/hygiene appointment completed the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ) to assess parenting style and a 15-question demographic survey. Blinded and calibrated expanded function dental auxiliaries or dental hygienists (EFDA/DH) performed a prophylaxis and assessed child behavior using the Frankl scale (inter-rater reliability was 92 percent). A blinded and calibrated dentist performed an oral examination. 132 parent/child dyads participated. Children with authoritative parents exhibited more positive behavior (P<.001) and less caries (P<.001) compared to children with authoritarian and permissive parents. Children attending daycare exhibited more positive behavior compared to children who did not (P<.001). Patients with private dental insurance exhibited more positive behavior (P>.04) and less caries (P>.024) compared to children with Medicaid or no dental insurance. Authoritative parenting and having private dental insurance were associated with less caries and better behavior during the first dental visit. Attending daycare was associated with better behavior during the first dental visit.

Promoting Language in under 3s. Assessing Language Development and the Quality of Adult Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Laevers, Ferre; Buyse, Evelien; Willekens, Annemieke; Janssen, Tine

2011-01-01

This research aims to develop instruments to assess language development in under-3s and the adult interventions that support it. After an extensive literature search, observations were conducted in 17 groups of children spread over two day-care centres. In total 42 children were observed during a 30-minute slot and 25 adults during a half day.…

Opening Our Doors: Taking Public Library Service to Preschool and Day-Care Facilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, Sally

The Opening Our Doors Project of the Pioneer Library System of Norman, Oklahoma takes public library service to preschool and day care facilities by means of learning kits housed in tote bags. The sturdy, zippered tote bags are full of books, games, toys, learning folders, and so forth. There is a tote bag for each of 75 different topics. Topics…

Current Status of Infant Mental Health in Day-Care Centres in Japan: An Investigation of Okinawa and Aomori Prefectures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Takizawa, Tohru; Kondo, Tsuyoshi; Tanaka, Osamu; Wake, Norie; Naka, Kuoichi; Todoriki, Hidemi; Ishizu, Hiroshi

2009-01-01

Grasping both the extent and the actual situation of psychosomatic disorders, neurotic habits and developmental disorders of infancy and childhood is vital for their prevention and for taking appropriate measures to deal with the current situation. The purpose of this study is to explore the current situation of infant mental health in Japanese…

Here We Like "Playing" Princesses--Newcomer Migrant Children's Transitions within Day Care: Exploring Role Play as an Indication of Suitability and Home and Belonging

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kalkman, Kris; Clark, Alison

2017-01-01

Using the concept of "suitability" to describe newcomer migrant children's connection to multiple fields of social and cultural relations, we explore a newcomer migrant girl's transition from an introductory group for migrant children with a refugee background into a mainstream day-care group. Inspired by sociocultural and transitional…

Does Colour Affect the Quality or Quantity of Children's Stories Elicited by Pictures?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schneider, Phyillis; Rivard, Reane; Debreuil, Buffy

2011-01-01

The current study investigated the effect of colour vs. black-and-white pictures on the stories children told using the pictures as stimuli. Participants were 22 preschool children aged 4-6 (M = 59.98, SD = 7.52) attending day-care centres in a Western Canadian city. Two story sets of five pictures each, depicting stories with similar structure,…

"Looking and Listening-In": A Methodological Approach to Generating Insights into Infants' Experiences of Early Childhood Education and Care Settings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sumsion, Jennifer; Goodfellow, Joy

2012-01-01

In this article, we describe an observational approach, "looking and listening-in," that we have used to try to understand the experience of an infant in an Australian family day-care home. The article is drawn from a larger study of infants' experiences of early childhood education and care settings. In keeping with the mosaic…

Children of Two to Three Years of Age in France: Early Childhood Settings and Age Divisions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garnier, Pascale; Rayna, Sylvie; Brougère, Gilles; Rupin, Pablo

2017-01-01

In a French early childhood care and education system that is strongly divided by age and institution, the current research studies the collective life of children at the pivotal age of two to three years of age in four different early childhood settings: (1) a group of "grands" (nursery) in a "crèche" (daycare centre), (2) a…

Low Intensity Behavioral Treatment Supplementing Preschool Services for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Severe to Mild Intellectual disability

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peters-Scheffer, Nienke; Didden, Robert; Mulders, Monique; Korzilius, Hubert

2010-01-01

This study evaluated the effectiveness of low intensity behavioral treatment (on average 6.5h per week) supplementing preschool services in 3-6-year-old children with autism spectrum disorder and severe to mild intellectual disability. Treatment was implemented in preschools (i.e., daycare centers) and a discrete trial teaching approach was used.…

Pidotimod for the prevention of acute respiratory infections in healthy children entering into daycare: A double blind randomized placebo-controlled study.

PubMed

Mameli, Chiara; Pasinato, Angela; Picca, Marina; Bedogni, Giorgio; Pisanelli, Stefania; Zuccotti, Gian Vincenzo

2015-07-01

Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) are very common in pediatric age and reach a peak in the first 4 years of life, especially in children attending daycare. Pidotimod, a synthetic immunostimulant, may reduce the incidence of ARTIs in children with predisposing risk factors. Nevertheless studies on healthy children are presently lacking. We performed a double-blinded randomized placebo-controlled trial study to assess the efficacy of Pidotimod in a population of 3-year-old healthy children who just entered kindergarten. The main outcome was the incidence of respiratory infections in this population and the secondary outcome was the prescription of antibiotics. The study group consisted of healthy 3-year-old children who had not yet attended day-care centers. Patients were enrolled by a convenience sample of 17 family pediatricians (FP). Children were randomized to receive either Pidotimod 400 mg per os or placebo twice daily for the last 10 days of each month from October 2013 to April 2014. Any time a child presented to his/her FP with fever and ARTI was diagnosed, clinical and therapeutic data were collected. A total of 800 children were pre-screened, 733 did not meet the inclusion criteria and 10 refused to participate. Of the 67 eligible subjects, 57 were successfully enrolled within the study recruitment period and randomized to receive Pidotimod (n = 29) or placebo (n = 28). Eight children were lost to follow-up. In the final analysis were thus included 24 children who received Pidotimod and 25 who received placebo. The incidence rate ratio for respiratory infections was 0.78 (95%CI 0.53 to 1.15, p = 0.211) for Pidotimod vs. placebo. The corresponding risk ratio for antibiotic usage was 0.56 (95%CI 0.27 to 1.16, p = 0.120). In our trial, Pidotimod did not prove to be statistically superior to placebo for the prevention of ARTI in a population of healthy children who entered kindergarten. However, Pidotimod showed some potential as a means for reducing antibiotic usage in these children. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Assessment and determinants of airborne bacterial and fungal concentrations in different indoor environments: Homes, child day-care centres, primary schools and elderly care centres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madureira, Joana; Paciência, Inês; Rufo, João Cavaleiro; Pereira, Cristiana; Teixeira, João Paulo; de Oliveira Fernandes, Eduardo

2015-05-01

Until now the influence of risk factors resulting from exposure to biological agents in indoor air has been far less studied than outdoor pollution; therefore the uncertainty of health risks, and how to effectively prevent these, remains. This study aimed (i) to quantify airborne cultivable bacterial and fungal concentrations in four different types of indoor environment as well as to identify the recovered fungi; (ii) to assess the impact of outdoor bacterial and fungal concentrations on indoor air; (iii) to investigate the influence of carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature and relative humidity on bacterial and fungal concentrations; and (iv) to estimate bacterial and fungal dose rate for children (3-5 years old and 8-10 years old) in comparison with the elderly. Air samples were collected in 68 homes, 9 child day-care centres, 20 primary schools and 22 elderly care centres, in a total of 264 rooms with a microbiological air sampler and using tryptic soy agar and malt extract agar culture media for bacteria and fungi growth, respectively. For each building, one outdoor representative location were identified and simultaneously studied. The results showed that child day-care centres were the indoor microenvironment with the highest median bacterial and fungal concentrations (3870 CFU/m3 and 415 CFU/m3, respectively), whereas the lowest median concentrations were observed in elderly care centres (222 CFU/m3 and 180 CFU/m3, respectively). Indoor bacterial concentrations were significantly higher than outdoor concentrations (p < 0.05); whereas the indoor/outdoor ratios for the obtained fungal concentrations were approximately around the unit. Indoor CO2 levels were associated with the bacterial concentration, probably due to occupancy and insufficient ventilation. Penicillium and Cladosporium were the most frequently occurring fungi. Children's had two times higher dose rate to biological pollutants when compared to adult individuals. Thus, due to children's susceptibility, special attention should be given to educational settings in order to guarantee their healthy future development.

Comparison of the Reynell Developmental Language Scale II and the Galker test of word-recognition-in-noise in Danish day-care children.

PubMed

Lous, Jørgen; Glenn Lauritsen, Maj-Britt

2018-06-01

To search for predictive factors for language development measured by two receptive language tests for children, the Galker test (a word-recognition-in-noise test) testing hearing and vocabulary, and the Danish version of Reynell Developmental Language Scale (2nd revision, RDLS II) test, a language comprehension test. The study analysed if information about background variables and parents and pre-school teachers was predictive for test scores; if earlier middle ear disease, actual hearing loss and tympanometry was important for language development; and if the two receptive tests differed in terms of the degree to which variables were able to predict test scores at the age of three to five years. All children aged three and five years attending 20 day-care centres for children without cognitive development issues from the Municipality of Hillerød, Denmark, were invited to participate. We used questionnaires to the parents and day-care teachers and examined the children using tympanometry, hearing test and the two receptive language tests. We performed unadjusted and adjusted analyses of raw and grouped scores and background variables, as well as stepwise regression analysis with group scores as outcome. The results of the two tests were surprisingly similar in relation to background variables. The same variables were predictive for scores in the two receptive language tests. The predictive variables were: age group (22-31%), having no sibling (2-3%), being a boy (1%), information from the parents about the child's vocabulary (3%), phonology (0-2%). information from the pre-school teachers on the child's vocabulary (4-6%), and hearing beyond 25 dB in best ear (mean of four frequencies) (1%). We found that nearly the same variables were predictive for the test score and the grouped score in pre-school children in the RDLS II and the Galker test. Information from the pre-school teachers was more predictive of the test score than information from the parents. In the adjusted analysis, beside age group, information about the child's vocabulary was the most predictive information explaining 4-6% of the variation. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Day-care mother--a successful model of child rearing?].

PubMed

Schetelig, H

1977-02-17

The scientific reports published so far on the project "day care mothering" do not allow to draw scientific conclusions, whether this educational model can achieve nearly equal results as family education. The author critisises, that such a clame is made. It seems necessary, to pay more importance to the function of the mother for her children, to give the children a sound emotional basis for their future development.

Day-Care Regulation: Serving Children or Bureaucrats? Cato Institute Policy Analysis No. 59.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lehrman, Karen; Pace, Jana

If the supply of day care is ever to keep pace with the rapidly rising demand, it is essential that there be a favorable climate for its growth. At present there is not, and the regulatory obstacle course laid out by state and local officials is in large part why. State barriers to the provision of day care involve licensing and registration and…

Fostering Language Acquisition in Daycare Settings: What Does the Research Tell Us? Working Papers in Early Childhood Development, No. 49

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beller, Simone

2008-01-01

The ways in which children learn a language--be it their mother tongue or their second language--can have a strong influence on their success in school. Researchers in linguistics and early child development have tried to determine the factors that can help and hinder language acquisition in young children, with some conflicting results. In this…

Partners in a Great Adventure: Karen Bersche--Alliance Library System, East Peoria, IL

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Library Journal, 2005

2005-01-01

As early as junior high school, after she had gone to see The Music Man and came out idolizing Marian, Karen Bersche knew she was destined for librarianship. But she didn't get around to it until after she got a degree in counseling, started her family, and opened her own daycare center. She has more than made up for lost time since, first as…

Pathways to Disease: The Biological Consequences of Social Adversity on Asthma in Minority Youth

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

the maximal change. 1adjusted for sex , age, maternal education, recruitment center, in utero smoke exposure, daycare attendance, baseline lung...1000 participants. We are 1) examining how the biomarkers differ by asthma diagnosis (case/control study), and 2) determining if these biomarkers...and determine treatment path. The results from our TNF-alpha and discrimination and our preliminary results suggest that these social stressors

Smaborns Dagpasning: Et Problem for Foraeldre og Kommuner. (Day-Care of Pre-School Children: A Problem to Parents and Local Authorities. With an English Summary). Publication No. 103.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gronhoj, Bodil

Survey data were collected for the purposes of describing and comparing various forms of day care provision for preschool children within Danish municipalities with different day care provision and different degrees of urbanization. Information concerning the family background of subjects, parental assessment of different aspects of day care and…

To Play a Soundtrack: How Children Use Recorded Music in Their Everyday Lives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vestad, Ingeborg Lunde

2010-01-01

This article looks at how children between three and six years of age use recorded music in their everyday lives. In Norway, where the project is situated, most children in this age group probably have access to CDs and/or Mp3 files, both in their family homes and pedagogical day-care facilities. Thus recorded music and the way it is used by…

The Effects of Sex, Structure, and Social Interaction on Preschoolers' Make-Believe in a Naturalistic Setting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brenner, Mark

This study examined the effects of sex, structure, and social interaction on 18 white middle class children, nine boys and nine girls, attending a daycare center. The children were observed over a 6-week period during a 2 1/2-hour free-play time. Results showed that both sexes equally apportion all types of free-play time behavior, show the same…

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Poenkae, A.

The weekly changes in ambient sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and temperature were compared with the figures for respiratory infection in children and adults and for absenteeism from day-care centers (DCC), schools, and workplaces during a 1-year period in Helsinki. The annual average level of sulfur dioxide was 21 micrograms/m3 and of nitrogen dioxide 47 micrograms/m3; the average temperature was +3.1 degrees C. The levels of these pollutants and the temperature were significantly correlated with the number of upper respiratory infections reported from health centers. Low temperature also correlated with increased frequency of acute tonsillitis, of lower respiratory tract infection amongmore » DCC children, and of absenteeism from day-care centers, schools and workplaces. Furthermore, a significant association was found between levels of sulfur dioxide and absenteeism. After statistical standardization for temperature, no other correlations were observed apart from that between high levels of sulfur dioxide and numbers of upper respiratory tract infections diagnosed at health centers (P = 0.04). When the concentrations of sulfur dioxide were above the mean, the frequency of the upper respiratory tract infections was 15% higher than that during the periods of low concentration. The relative importance of the effects of low-level air pollution and low temperature on health is difficult to assess.« less

Neurodevelopment in preterm infants with and without placenta-related intrauterine growth restriction and its relation to perinatal and postnatal factors.

PubMed

Candel-Pau, Júlia; Perapoch López, Josep; Castillo Salinas, Félix; Sánchez Garcia, Olga; Pérez Hoyos, Santiago; Llurba Olivé, Elisa

2016-01-01

Intrauterine-growth restriction is associated with impaired neurodevelopment. However, studies on early childhood neurodevelopment of premature infants with placenta-related intrauterine-growth restriction (IUGR) are scarce and heterogeneous. We aimed to analyze the impact of placenta-related IUGR on preschool age neurodevelopment in preterm infants, and to ascertain which prenatal and postnatal factors influence neurodevelopment in these infants. Prospective cohorts study: 48 placenta-related IUGR premature infants and 25 matched non-IUGR premature infants (mean gestational age: 31.4 and 31.6 weeks, respectively). Preschool neurodevelopment assessment with cognitive Bayley Scales III and with ASQ-III surveys (age interval: 34.07-42.50 months). Inter-cohort result comparison. Analysis of perinatal and environmental factors associated with impaired neurodevelopment in both cohorts. No statistically significant neurodevelopment differences were observed at preschool age between both preterm cohorts. Multivariate analysis of perinatal and environmental factors showed daycare, breastfeeding, higher parental educational level, and absence of severe neonatal morbidity to be associated with a lower risk of altered neurodevelopment at preschool age. Placenta-related IUGR does not have a significant impact on preschool neurodevelopment in our preterm patients. Instead, post-natal positive environmental factors such as parental educational level, breastfeeding, and daycare attendance make a difference towards an improvement in neurodevelopment in these infants.

Child and family-related predictors of psychological outcomes in children adopted from abroad; what is the role of caregiver time?

PubMed

Rita, Niina; Elovainio, Marko; Raaska, Hanna; Lahti-Nuuttila, Pekka; Matomäki, Jaakko; Sinkkonen, Jari; Lapinleimu, Helena

2017-08-01

International adoptees need to cope with stressful transitions and to develop secure attachment with their caregivers at the same time. Although most children adopted from abroad adjust fine, they are at increased risk of psychological problems. We investigated whether both child and family-related factors are associated with later psychological problems and whether the length of time spent at home after adoption before daycare moderates these associations among internationally adopted children in Finland (FinAdo, Finnish Adoption Study). The sample consisted of 1,265 children (708 girls, 557 boys) who arrived in Finland before they started school (mean age 2 years at arrival). Later behavioral problems were measured using the Child Behavior Check List (CBCL). According to our results, male gender, older age, child's early clinical symptoms (problems of sensory processing) and single parenthood were associated with later behavioral problems measured by CBCL scores. Longer stay at home before the start of daycare or school modified these results. Longer stay at home was associated with less later behavioral externalizing problems in girls but not in boys compared to those who spent a shorter time at home. © 2017 Scandinavian Psychological Associations and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Correlating Parenting Styles with Child Behavior and Caries

PubMed Central

Howenstein, Jeff; Kumar, Ashok; Casamassimo, Paul S.; McTigue, Dennis; Coury, Daniel; Yin, Han

2015-01-01

Purpose This study evaluated the relationship between parenting style, sociodemographic data, caries status, and child’s behavior during the first dental visit. Methods Parents/legal guardians of new patients aged three to six years presenting to Nationwide Children’s Hospital dental clinic for an initial examination/hygiene appointment completed the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ) to assess parenting style and a 15-question demographic survey. Blinded and calibrated expanded function dental auxiliaries or dental hygienists (EFDA/DH) performed a prophylaxis and assessed child behavior using the Frankl scale (inter-rater reliability was 92 percent). A blinded and calibrated dentist performed an oral examination. Results 132 parent/child dyads participated. Children with authoritative parents exhibited more positive behavior (P<.001) and less caries (P<.001) compared to children with authoritarian and permissive parents. Children attending daycare exhibited more positive behavior compared to children who did not (P<.001). Patients with private dental insurance exhibited more positive behavior (P>.04) and less caries (P>.024) compared to children with Medicaid or no dental insurance. Conclusions Authoritative parenting and having private dental insurance were associated with less caries and better behavior during the first dental visit. Attending daycare was associated with better behavior during the first dental visit. PMID:25685975

Comparison, association, and risk assessment of phthalates in floor dust at different indoor environments in Delaware, USA.

PubMed

Bi, Xiaolong; Yuan, Shoujun; Pan, Xiaojun; Winstead, Cherese; Wang, Qiquan

2015-01-01

This study aimed to compare and assess phthalate contamination in various indoor environments. In this study, 44 floor dust samples from different indoor environments in Delaware, USA were collected and analyzed for 14 phthalates using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Phthalates were detected in all dust samples with the total concentration ranging from 84 to 7117 mg kg(-1). DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate), BzBP (benzylbutyl phthalate), DBP (dibutyl phthalate), and DiBP (di-isobutyl phthalate) were both the most frequently and abundantly detected phthalates. The average concentration of total phthalates in dust from offices, student dorms, gyms, stores, and daycare centers was found to be significantly or insignificantly (P = 0.05) higher than that in dust from houses and apartments. Plastic flooring materials and the application of floor care chemical products were positively associated with total phthalate concentration in floor dust. Toxicological risk assessment indicated that an investigated daycare center in this study was the only indoor environment that may cause the intake amount of DEHP of infants, toddlers, and children via dust ingestion to exceed the reference dose established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Regular monitoring on phthalate contamination in sensitive indoor environments is recommended.

Quality standards in a rheumatology Day-Care Hospital Unit. The proposal of the Spanish Society of Rheumatology Day Hospitals' Working Group.

PubMed

García-Vicuña, Rosario; Montoro, María; Egües Dubuc, César Antonio; Bustabad Reyes, Sagrario; Gómez-Centeno, Antonio; Muñoz-Fernández, Santiago; Pérez Pampín, Eva; Román Ivorra, Jose Andrés; Balsa, Alejandro; Loza, Estíbaliz

2014-01-01

In recent years, the Rheumatology Day-Care Hospital Units (DHU have undergone extensive development. However, the quality standards are poorly documented and mainly limited to structure items rather than including broad and specific areas of this specialty. To develop specific quality standards for Rheumatology DHU. After a systematic review of the literature and related documents, a working group (WG) involving 8 DHU-experienced rheumatologists developed an initial proposal of the quality standards, under the supervision of an expert methodologist. A second round was held by the WG group to review the initial proposal and to consider further suggestions. Once the content was agreed upon by consensus, a final report was prepared. 17 structure standards, 25 process standards and 10 results standards were defined, with special emphasis on specific aspects of the Rheumatology DHU. The proposal includes: 1) essential standards to 2) excellent standards, 3) a Rheumatology DHU services portfolio and 4) performance criteria. The proposed quality standards are the basis for developing the indicators and other management tools for Rheumatology DHU, thereby ensuring a patient-oriented practice based on both the evidence and the experience. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Food Consumption and Nutrient Intake by Children Aged 10 to 48 Months Attending Day Care in The Netherlands

PubMed Central

Goldbohm, R. Alexandra; Rubingh, Carina M.; Lanting, Caren I.; Joosten, Koen F. M.

2016-01-01

The diet of young children is an important determinant of long-term health effects, such as overweight and obesity. We analyzed two-day food consumption records from 1526 young children (10–48 months old) attending 199 daycare centers across The Netherlands. Data were observed and recorded in diaries by caregivers at the day nursery and by parents at home on days that the children attended the daycare center. According to national and European reference values, the children had an adequate nutrient intake with exception of low intakes of total fat, n-3 fatty acids from fish and possibly iron. Intakes of energy and protein were substantially higher than recommended and part of the population exceeded the tolerable upper intake levels for sodium, zinc and retinol. Consumption of fruit, fats, fish, and fluids was substantially less than recommended. The children used mostly (semi-)skimmed milk products and non-refined bread and cereals, as recommended. Two thirds of the consumed beverages, however, contained sugar and contributed substantially to energy intake. In young children, low intakes of n-3 fatty acids and iron are a potential matter of concern, as are the high intakes of energy, protein, sugared beverages, and milk, since these may increase the risk of becoming overweight. PMID:27428995

A Safer Future. Reducing the Impacts of Natural Disasters

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

press think-tanks such as initiatives should-be directed to teachers at day-care the Gannett -Center for Media Studies and the centers and preschools as...ty of science and technology with the Academy’s purposes of fir- competencies and with regard for appropriate balance. thering knowledge and advising...nity emergency procedures, warning signals, disaster the 12th grade. Teachers should be given training on resources, and relief facilities and

Perinatal Exposure to Traffic-Related Air Pollution and Atopy at 1 Year of Age in a Multi-Center Canadian Birth Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Allen, Ryan W.; Becker, Allan; Brook, Jeffrey R.; Mandhane, Piush; Scott, James A.; Sears, Malcolm R.; Subbarao, Padmaja; Takaro, Tim K.; Turvey, Stuart E.; Brauer, Michael

2015-01-01

Background The role of traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) exposure in the development of allergic sensitization in children is unclear, and few birth cohort studies have incorporated spatiotemporal exposure assessment. Objectives We aimed to examine the association between TRAP and atopy in 1-year-old children from an ongoing national birth cohort study in four Canadian cities. Methods We identified 2,477 children of approximately 1 year of age with assessment of atopy for inhalant (Alternaria, Der p, Der f, cat, dog, cockroach) and food-related (milk, eggs, peanuts, soy) allergens. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) was estimated from city-specific land use regression models accounting for residential mobility and temporal variability in ambient concentrations. We used mixed models to examine associations between atopy and exposure during pregnancy and the first year of life, including adjustment for covariates (maternal atopy, socioeconomic status, pets, mold, nutrition). We also conducted analyses stratified by time-location patterns, daycare attendance, and modeled home ventilation. Results Following spatiotemporal adjustment, TRAP exposure after birth increased the risk for development of atopy to any allergens [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) per 10 μg/m3 NO2 = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.41], but not during pregnancy (aOR = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.86, 1.22). This association was stronger among children not attending daycare (aOR = 1.61; 95% CI: 1.28, 2.01) compared with daycare attendees (aOR = 1.05; 95% CI: 0.81, 1.28). Trends to increased risk were also found for food (aOR = 1.17; 95% CI: 0.95, 1.47) and inhalant allergens (aOR = 1.28; 95% CI: 0.93, 1.76). Conclusion Using refined exposure estimates that incorporated temporal variability and residential mobility, we found that traffic-related air pollution during the first year of life was associated with atopy. Citation Sbihi H, Allen RW, Becker A, Brook JR, Mandhane P, Scott JA, Sears MR, Subbarao P, Takaro TK, Turvey SE, Brauer M. 2015. Perinatal exposure to traffic-related air pollution and atopy at 1 year of age in a multi-center Canadian birth cohort study. Environ Health Perspect 123:902–908; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1408700 PMID:25826816

Infection and childhood leukemia: review of evidence

PubMed Central

Maia, Raquel da Rocha Paiva; Wünsch, Victor

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE To analyze studies that evaluated the role of infections as well as indirect measures of exposure to infection in the risk of childhood leukemia, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia. METHODS A search in Medline, Lilacs, and SciELO scientific publication databases initially using the descriptors "childhood leukemia" and "infection" and later searching for the words "childhood leukemia" and "maternal infection or disease" or "breastfeeding" or "daycare attendance" or "vaccination" resulted in 62 publications that met the following inclusion criteria: subject aged ≤ 15 years; specific analysis of cases diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or total leukemia; exposure assessment of mothers' or infants' to infections (or proxy of infection), and risk of leukemia. RESULTS Overall, 23 studies that assessed infections in children support the hypothesis that occurrence of infection during early childhood reduces the risk of leukemia, but there are disagreements within and between studies. The evaluation of exposure to infection by indirect measures showed evidence of reduced risk of leukemia associated mainly with daycare attendance. More than 50.0% of the 16 studies that assessed maternal exposure to infection observed increased risk of leukemia associated with episodes of influenza, pneumonia, chickenpox, herpes zoster, lower genital tract infection, skin disease, sexually transmitted diseases, Epstein-Barr virus, and Helicobacter pylori. CONCLUSIONS Although no specific infectious agent has been identified, scientific evidence suggests that exposure to infections has some effect on childhood leukemia etiology. PMID:24626555

[A Study on the Number of Offices for Home-Visit/Outpatient Day Long-Term Care in Noto Area, Based on Estimated Population - Analysis Using the Geographic Information System].

PubMed

Itatani, Tomoya; Horiike, Ryo; Nakai, Hisao; Kyota, Kaoru; Tsukasaki, Keiko

2018-03-01

There has been a noticeable population decline in the Noto area. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has determined the population size necessary for the establishment of daily living-related service businesses and, if the population falls below this, there is a possibility of businesses withdrawing from the area. In this research, we examine the number of home visit and daycare businesses established in the Noto area in 2025, using the geographic information system (GIS). The number of sites of businesses established was calculated using data published by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Next, I depicted a buffer with a radius of 15 km from the establishment and confirmed the blank area of the service. Under the condition that the placement of sites is 80%, almost all the municipalities have exceeded the number of home visit care facilities and the number of daycare facilities. In the buffer analysis, blank areas were found in the north. To maintain these services, efforts by groups other than profit-oriented organizations are necessary, especially in the north of Noto. Route analysis by GIS and the consideration of population distribution and location of business establishment will be needed.

Poor Infant Feeding Practices and High Prevalence of Malnutrition in Urban Slum Child Care Centres in Nairobi: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Mutoro, Antonina; Owino, Victor; Garcia, Ada L.; Wright, Charlotte M.

2016-01-01

Little is known about the style and quality of feeding and care provided in child day-care centres in slum areas. This study purposively sampled five day-care centres in Nairobi, Kenya, where anthropometric measurements were collected among 33 children aged 6–24 months. Mealtime interactions were further observed in 11 children from four centres, using a standardized data collection sheet. We recorded the child actions, such as mood, interest in food, distraction level, as well as caregiver actions, such as encouragement to eat, level of distraction and presence of neutral actions. Of the 33 children assessed, with a mean age of 15.9 ± 4.9 months, 14 (42%) were female. Undernutrition was found in 13 (39%) children with at least one Z score <−2 or oedema (2): height for age <−2 (11), weight for age <−2 (11), body mass index for age <−2 (4). Rates of undernutrition were highest (9 of 13; 69%) in children aged 18–24 months. Hand-washing before the meal was lacking in all centres. Caregivers were often distracted and rarely encouraged children to feed, with most children eating less than half of their served meal. Poor hygiene coupled with non-responsive care practices observed in the centres is a threat to child health, growth and development. PMID:26507408

[Child protection network and the intersector implementation of the circle of security as alternatives to medication].

PubMed

Becker, Ana Laura Martins M M; de Souza, Paulo Haddad; de Oliveira, Mônica Martins; Paraguay, Nestor Luiz Bruzzi B

2014-09-01

To describe the clinical history of a child with aggressive behavior and recurring death-theme speech, and report the experience of the team of authors, who proposed an alternative to medication through the establishment of a protection network and the inter-sector implementation of the circle of security concept. A 5-year-old child has a violent and aggressive behavior at the day-care. The child was diagnosed by the healthcare center with depressive disorder and behavioral disorder, and was medicated with sertraline and risperidone. Side effects were observed, and the medications were discontinued. Despite several actions, such as talks, teamwork, psychological and psychiatric follow-up, the child's behavior remained unchanged. A unique therapeutic project was developed by Universidade Estadual de Campinas' Medical School students in order to establish a connection between the entities responsible for the child's care (daycare center, healthcare center, and family). Thus, the team was able to develop a basic care protection network. The implementation of the inter-sector circle of security, as well as the communication and cooperation among the teams, produced very favorable results in this case. This initiative was shown to be a feasible and effective alternative to the use of medication for this child. Copyright © 2014 Sociedade de Pediatria de São Paulo. Publicado por Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

[Effect of cognitive stimulation in elderly community].

PubMed

Apóstolo, João Luís Alves; Cardoso, Daniela Filipa Batista; Paúl, Constança; Rodrigues, Manuel Alves; Macedo, Marinha Sofia

2016-01-01

To demonstrate that the implementation of the Cognitive Stimulation (CS) program 'Making a Difference' (MD) improves cognition and depressive symptoms in retired community elders. This was a multicenter quasi-experimental study of 45 community dwelling elders (38 women and 7 men), with a mean age of 75.29, from 3 day-care centers in rural, semi-rural and urban environments in the central region of Portugal. Participants attended 14 sessions twice a week over seven weeks. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) were administered at the following three time points: baseline, post-test, and follow-up. From baseline to post-test, there is a statistically significant difference in depressive symptoms (F=7.494; P=.010) explaining 21% of the variance (partial eta squared [ηp(2)]=.21), power=.75, but there is no statistically significant difference in cognition. From post-test to follow-up, there is no difference in both cognition and depression outcomes. Our results showed improvement in elders' depressive symptoms after a seven weeks intervention program but it did not have a protective effect after the three months follow-up. No evidence was found for its efficacy in improving cognition. Cognitive stimulation may be a useful in preventing elder's depressive symptoms when included in their health promotion care plan. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Assessment of Knowledge of Day-Care Center Workers in Basic Aspects of Child Care: A Pilot Study.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-06-01

to make a score of at least 70 percent on the multiple choice portion of the questionnaire used in this study . %~u CHAPTER II THE REVIEW OF LITERATURE...employees. These factors would automatically introduce a source of bias into the study . Of the centers contacted, one for-profit center, a franchise center...order to obtain consent. These centers were subsequently exclu- ded from the study leaving only three strata: operated for- profit centers (from her on

Developing Pathways to Serving Together: Military Family Life Course and Decision-Making of Dual Military Couples

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

common theme for couples in their parent role. Many couples expect it to be emotionally difficult to leave their children for deployments but find it...and going which again is a career timing issue. Parents feel it will be emotionally and mentally difficult for the children to adapt to having...or command when parents have to come to work later of leave earlier because of daycare hours. Stephanie explains her negative reaction from peers

Comparison of single-dose nalbuphine versus tramadol for postoperative pain management in children: a randomized, controlled trial.

PubMed

Liaqat, Naeem; Dar, Sajid Hameed

2017-04-01

Acute postoperative pain control in children is an essential component of postoperative care, particularly in daycare procedures. Giving patients continuous narcotic analgesics can be risky; however, a single dose may be sufficient. This study used a prospective, randomized controlled design and was conducted at the Pediatric Surgery Unit, Services Hospital, Lahore. In total, 150 patients who underwent inguinal herniotomy (age range: 1-12 years) were randomly assigned to two groups: group A (nalbuphine) and group B (tramadol). Patients were given a single dose of either nalbuphine (0.2 mg/kg) or tramadol (2 mg/kg) immediately after surgery and pain was measured at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 h. The demographic characteristics were similar between the two groups. The mean pain score was lower in group A than in group B at 0 and 1 h (P < 0.05). However, at 4 h and 8 h, the pain scores in group A were still lower, but not significantly. In all, 9 patients (12.0%) required rescue analgesics in group A compared to 16 patients (21.3%) in group B (P = 0.051). The mean time for requirement of rescue analgesics was 6.5 ± 0.5 h in group A and 5.3 ± 1.7 h in group B (P = 0.06). A single dose of nalbuphine is sufficient, and superior to tramadol, for postoperative pain management in children who have undergone daycare procedures.

A comparison of recordings of sentences and spontaneous speech: perceptual and acoustic measures in preschool children's voices.

PubMed

McAllister, Anita; Brandt, Signe Kofoed

2012-09-01

A well-controlled recording in a studio is fundamental in most voice rehabilitation. However, this laboratory like recording method has been questioned because voice use in a natural environment may be quite different. In children's natural environment, high background noise levels are common and are an important factor contributing to voice problems. The primary noise source in day-care centers is the children themselves. The aim of the present study was to compare perceptual evaluations of voice quality and acoustic measures from a controlled recording with recordings of spontaneous speech in children's natural environment in a day-care setting. Eleven 5-year-old children were recorded three times during a day at the day care. The controlled speech material consisted of repeated sentences. Matching sentences were selected from the spontaneous speech. All sentences were repeated three times. Recordings were randomized and analyzed acoustically and perceptually. Statistic analyses showed that fundamental frequency was significantly higher in spontaneous speech (P<0.01) as was hyperfunction (P<0.001). The only characteristic the controlled sentences shared with spontaneous speech was degree of hoarseness (Spearman's rho=0.564). When data for boys and girls were analyzed separately, a correlation was found for the parameter breathiness (rho=0.551) for boys, and for girls the correlation for hoarseness remained (rho=0.752). Regarding acoustic data, none of the measures correlated across recording conditions for the whole group. Copyright © 2012 The Voice Foundation. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Poor Infant Feeding Practices and High Prevalence of Malnutrition in Urban Slum Child Care Centres in Nairobi: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Mwase, Ivan; Mutoro, Antonina; Owino, Victor; Garcia, Ada L; Wright, Charlotte M

2016-02-01

Little is known about the style and quality of feeding and care provided in child day-care centres in slum areas. This study purposively sampled five day-care centres in Nairobi, Kenya, where anthropometric measurements were collected among 33 children aged 6-24 months. Mealtime interactions were further observed in 11 children from four centres, using a standardized data collection sheet. We recorded the child actions, such as mood, interest in food, distraction level, as well as caregiver actions, such as encouragement to eat, level of distraction and presence of neutral actions. Of the 33 children assessed, with a mean age of 15.9 ± 4.9 months, 14 (42%) were female. Undernutrition was found in 13 (39%) children with at least one Z score <-2 or oedema (2): height for age <-2 (11), weight for age <-2 (11), body mass index for age <-2 (4). Rates of undernutrition were highest (9 of 13; 69%) in children aged 18-24 months. Hand-washing before the meal was lacking in all centres. Caregivers were often distracted and rarely encouraged children to feed, with most children eating less than half of their served meal. Poor hygiene coupled with non-responsive care practices observed in the centres is a threat to child health, growth and development. © The Author [2015]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Associations between birth health, maternal employment, and child care arrangement among a community sample of mothers with young children.

PubMed

Chiao, Chi; Chyu, Laura; Ksobiech, Kate

2014-01-01

Although a large body of literature exists on how different types of child care arrangements affect a child's subsequent health and sociocognitive development, little is known about the relationship between birth health and subsequent decisions regarding type of nonparental child care as well as how this relationship might be influenced by maternal employment. This study used data from the Los Angeles Families and Neighborhoods Survey (L.A.FANS). Mothers of 864 children (ages 0-5) provided information regarding birth weight, maternal evaluation of a child's birth health, child's current health, maternal employment, type of child care arrangement chosen, and a variety of socioeconomic variables. Child care options included parental care, relative care, nonrelative care, and daycare center. Multivariate analyses found that birth weight and subjective rating of birth health had similar effects on child care arrangement. After controlling for a child's age and current health condition, multinomial logit analyses found that mothers with children with poorer birth health are more likely to use nonrelative and daycare centers than parental care when compared to mothers with children with better birth health. The magnitude of these relationships diminished when adjusting for maternal employment. Working mothers were significantly more likely to use nonparental child care than nonemployed mothers. Results suggest that a child's health early in life is significantly but indirectly related to subsequent decisions regarding child care arrangements, and this association is influenced by maternal employment. Development of social policy aimed at improving child care service should take maternal and family backgrounds into consideration.

Association of Experiences of Medical Home Quality with Health-Related Quality of Life and School Engagement among Latino Children in Low-Income Families

PubMed Central

Stevens, Gregory D; Vane, Christina; Cousineau, Michael R

2011-01-01

Objective This study examines whether patient-reported indicators of a quality medical home are associated with measures of health among Latino children in low-income families. Data Sources Data on 3,258 children ages 2–18 years are from a cross-sectional survey of parents of children affiliated with California's Healthy Kids insurance. Study Design Medical home quality was assessed using the Parents' Perception of Primary Care and was associated with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) overall and in four domains (physical, emotional, social, and school/daycare) and four measures of school engagement. Principal Findings A higher total medical home score was associated with a higher total Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory score and scores in four subdomains (total beta [B]=1.77, physical B = 1.71, social B = 1.36, emotional B = 2.22, and school/daycare B = 1.69, all p<0.001). It was also associated with missing fewer than three school days due to illness (odds ratio [OR]=1.12, 95 percent confidence intervals [CI]: 1.05, 1.19), excellent/above average school performance overall (OR=1.10, 95 percent CI: 1.03, 1.17) and performance in reading (OR=1.13, 95 percent CI: 1.06, 1.20) and math (OR=1.10, 95 percent CI: 1.03, 1.16). Conclusions Patient-reported medical home quality indicators are favorably associated with HRQOL and measures of school engagement among Latino children in low-income families. PMID:21762145

Validation of environmental content in the Young Children's Participation and Environment Measure.

PubMed

Khetani, Mary A

2015-02-01

To evaluate the concurrent validity of the environment content in the newly developed Young Children's Participation and Environment Measure (YC-PEM). Cross-sectional study. Data were collected online. Convenience and snowball sampling methods were used to survey caregivers of children (N=381; 85 children with developmental disabilities and delays and 296 children without developmental disabilities and delays) aged 0 and 5 years (mean age, 36.49±20.18 mo). Not applicable. The YC-PEM includes an assessment of the effect of environment on children's participation for 3 settings: home, daycare/preschool, and community. Pearson and Spearman correlational analyses were used to examine the concurrent validity of the YC-PEM environmental content according to a criterion measure, the Craig Hospital Inventory of Environmental Factors-Child and Parent Version (CHIEF-CP). The YC-PEM and the CHIEF-CP items were first mapped to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health-Children and Youth Version to identify items for pairwise comparison. We found small to moderate negative associations for 51 of 66 pairwise comparisons involving CHIEF-CP and YC-PEM environment items (r=-.13 to -.39; P<.01). Significant associations were found for items in all 5 International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Children and Youth Version environmental domains. Results lend further support for the use of the YC-PEM for valid caregiver assessment of the physical, social, attitudinal, and institutional features of environments in terms of their effect on young children's participation within the home, daycare/preschool, and community settings. Copyright © 2015 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inter- and intra-rater reliability of nasal auscultation in daycare children.

PubMed

Santos, Rita; Silva Alexandrino, Ana; Tomé, David; Melo, Cristina; Mesquita Montes, António; Costa, Daniel; Pinto Ferreira, João

2018-02-01

The aim of this study was to assess nasal auscultation's intra- and inter-rater reliability and to analyze ear and respiratory clinical condition according to nasal auscultation. Cross-sectional study performed in 125 children aged up to 3 years old attending daycare centers. Nasal auscultation, tympanometry and Paediatric Respiratory Severity Score (PRSS) were applied to all children. Nasal sounds were classified by an expert panel in order to determine nasal auscultation's intra and inter- rater reliability. The classification of nasal sounds was assessed against tympanometric and PRSS values. Nasal auscultation revealed substantial inter-rater (K=0.75) and intra-rater (K=0.69; K=0.61 and K=0.72) reliability. Children with a "non-obstructed" classification revealed a lower peak pressure (t=-3.599, P<0.001 in left ear; t=-2.258, P=0.026 in right ear) and a higher compliance (t=-2,728, P=0.007 in left ear; t=-3.830. P<0.001 in right ear) in both ears. There was an association between the classification of sounds and tympanogram types in both ears (X=11.437, P=0.003 in left ear; X=13.535, P=0.001 in right ear). Children with a "non-obstructed" classification had a healthier respiratory condition. Nasal auscultation revealed substantial intra- and inter-rater reliability. Nasal auscultation exhibited important differences according to ear and respiratory clinical conditions. Nasal auscultation in pediatrics seems to be an original topic as well as a simple method that can be used to identify early signs of nasopharyngeal obstruction.

Health-related quality of life for pediatric emergency department febrile illnesses: an evaluation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

PubMed

Mistry, Rakesh D; Stevens, Molly W; Gorelick, Marc H

2009-01-29

We sought to assess the validity and short-term responsiveness of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL) for febrile illnesses evaluated in the pediatric emergency department (ED). Prospective cohort study of children 2-18 years discharged after ED evaluation for fever (>or= 38 degrees C). Self-administered, parent-report of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) was assessed using the PedsQL Acute Version, a validated HRQOL instrument. HRQOL was measured on ED presentation and at 7-10 day follow-up. At follow-up, duration of fever, child functional impairment, missed daycare/school, and disrupted family unit functioning, were assessed. Of 160 subjects enrolled, 97 (61%) completed the study; mean follow-up was 8.7 days. Mean total HRQOL score on ED presentation was 76.4; mean follow-up score was 86.3. Compared to subjects that returned to baseline, statistically significant differences in HRQOL were noted for those with prolonged fever, child functional impairment, and relapse. Significant correlation was observed between HRQOL at follow-up and days of daycare/school missed (r = -0.35, p = .003) and days of family disruption (r = -0.43, p < .001). Mean change in HRQOL within subjects, from ED visit to follow-up, was +9.8 (95% CI: 5.6-14.6). Effect size was 0.53, indicating moderate responsiveness. The PedsQL appears to be a valid and responsive indicator of HRQOL for short-term febrile illnesses evaluated in the ED.

Perceived effective and feasible strategies to promote healthy eating in young children: focus groups with parents, family child care providers and daycare assistants.

PubMed

Vandeweghe, Laura; Moens, Ellen; Braet, Caroline; Van Lippevelde, Wendy; Vervoort, Leentje; Verbeken, Sandra

2016-10-04

The aim of the current study is to identify strategies to promote healthy eating in young children that can be applied by caregivers, based on their own perceptions of effectiveness and feasibility. Whereas previous research mainly focused on parental influences on children's eating behavior, the growing role of other caregivers in the upbringing of children can no longer be denied. Four focus groups were conducted with three types of caregivers of post-weaning children under 6 years old: parents (n = 14), family child care providers (n = 9), and daycare assistants (n = 10). The audiotaped focus group discussions were transcribed and imported into Nvivo 10.0 for thematic analysis. The behaviors put forward by the caregivers were categorized within three broad dimensions: global influences, general behaviors, and specific feeding practices. Perceived effective strategies to promote healthy eating behavior in children included rewards, verbal encouragement, a taste-rule, sensory sensations, involvement, variation, modeling, repeated exposure, and a peaceful atmosphere. Participants mainly disagreed on the perceived feasibility of each strategy, which largely depended on the characteristics of the caregiving setting (e.g. infrastructure, policy). Based on former research and the current results, an intervention to promote healthy eating behaviors in young children should be adapted to the caregiving setting or focus on specific feeding practices, since these involve simple behaviors that are not hindered by the limitations of the caregiving setting. Due to various misconceptions regarding health-promoting strategies, clear instructions about when and how to use these strategies are necessary.

Correlates of parental antibiotic knowledge, demand, and reported use.

PubMed

Kuzujanakis, Marianne; Kleinman, Ken; Rifas-Shiman, Sheryl; Finkelstein, Jonathan A

2003-01-01

Clinicians cite parental misconceptions and requests for antibiotics as reasons for inappropriate prescribing. To identify misconceptions regarding antibiotics and predictors of parental demand for antibiotics and to determine if parental knowledge and attitudes are associated with use. Survey of parents in 16 Massachusetts communities. Domains included antibiotic-related knowledge, attitudes about antibiotics, antibiotic use during a 12-month period, demographics, and access to health information. Bivariate and multivariate analyses evaluated predictors of knowledge and proclivity to demand antibiotics. A multivariate model evaluated the associations of knowledge, demand, and demographic factors with parent-reported antibiotic use. A total of 1106 surveys were returned (response rates: 54% and 32% for commercially-insured and Medicaid-insured families). Misconceptions were common regarding bronchitis (92%) and green nasal discharge (78%). Two hundred sixty-five (24%) gave responses suggesting a proclivity to demand antibiotics. Antibiotic knowledge was associated with increased parental age and education, having more than 1 child, white race, and receipt of media information on resistance. Factors associated with a proclivity to demand antibiotics included decreased knowledge, pressure from day-care settings, lack of alternatives offered by clinicians, and lack of access to media information. Among all respondents, reported antibiotic use was associated with younger child age and day-care attendance. Among Medicaid-insured children only, less antibiotic knowledge and tendency to demand antibiotics were associated with higher rates of antibiotic use. Misconceptions regarding antibiotic use are widespread and potentially modifiable by clinicians and media sources. Particular attention should be paid to Medicaid-insured patients in whom such misconceptions may contribute to inappropriate prescribing.

[Association between time of permanence at early education program (Estancias Infantiles) and developmental level for children in situation of poverty].

PubMed

Rizzoli-Córdoba, Antonio; Vargas-Carrillo, Laura Ibernia; Vásquez-Ríos, Jorge Rodrigo; Reyes-Morales, Hortensia; Villasís-Keever, Miguel Ángel; O'Shea-Cuevas, Gabriel; Aceves-Villagrán, Daniel; Muñoz-Hernández, Onofre; García-Aranda, José Alberto

Early education program (EEP) was created to support parents with 1 to 3 year olds living in poverty situation in Mexico, and includes education and child daycare for 8h five days per week. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between length of stay in EEP and the level of development in children. Cross sectional, population-based study conducted in two Mexican states. All children aged between 12 to 48 months enrolled in EEP from November 2014 to January 2015 were included. Child Development Evaluation (CDE) test was used to screen early development in every child. Normal early development prevalence odds ratio (OR) was calculated adjusted by gender, impairment and state, using as a reference those children with less than 30 days in the program. The study included 3,387 children from 177 EEP nurseries, from which 53% were male; age by group was divided in 12-24 months (22.3%), 25-36 months (37.6%) and 37-42 months (40.1%). Normal development adjusted OR by age was 1.9 (CI95%: 1.30-2.78) for 6-11 months, 2.36 (CI95%: 1.60-3.50) for 12-17 months, 2.78 (CI95%: 1.65-4.65) for 18-23 months and 3.46 (CI95%: 2.13-5.60) for >24 months. By area of development, a greater probability of having a normal result for language and social areas was observed after 6 months in the program, and for motor (both gross and fine) and knowledge areas after 12 months. The length of the stay in the EEP after 6 months significantly and progressively increases the probability of normal development regardless of gender and age. Copyright © 2017 Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez. Publicado por Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.

Having Both a Family and a Future in Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McNeil, Laurie

1997-11-01

This session, sponsored by the APS Committee on the Status of Women in Physics (CSWP), will consist of a panel discussion in which men and women who have faced the challenges of combining physics with family will share their experiences and discuss the issues they confront. The panelists will be asked to respond to questions such as: "Is this an issue that only affects women?" "Can you have tenure and children too?" "Daycare vs. homecare: does it harm the children?" "Can I bring my children to my workplace?" Audience participation in the disscussion will be encouraged.

Does self-administered vaginal misoprostol result in cervical ripening in postmenopausal women after 14 days of pre-treatment with estradiol? Trial protocol for a randomised, placebo-controlled sequential trial.

PubMed

Oppegaard, K S; Lieng, M; Berg, A; Istre, O; Qvigstad, E; Nesheim, B-I

2008-06-01

To compare the impact of 1000 micrograms of self-administered vaginal misoprostol versus self-administered vaginal placebo on preoperative cervical ripening after pre-treatment with estradiol vaginal tablets at home in postmenopausal women prior to day-care operative hysteroscopy. Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled sequential trial. The boundaries for the sequential trial were calculated on the primary outcomes of a difference of cervical dilatation > or = 1 millimetre, with the assumption of a type 1 error of 0.05 and a power of 0.95. Norwegian university teaching hospital. Postmenopausal women referred for day-care operative hysteroscopy. The women were randomised to either 1000 micrograms of self-administered vaginal misoprostol or self-administered vaginal placebo the evening before day-care operative hysteroscopy. All women had administered a 25-microgram vaginal estradiol tablet daily for 14 days prior to the operation. Preoperative cervical dilatation (difference between misoprostol and placebo group, primary outcome), difference in dilatation before and after administration of misoprostol or placebo, number of women who achieve a preoperative cervical dilatation > or = 5 millimetres, acceptability, complications and side effects (secondary outcomes). Intra-operative findings and distribution of cervical dilatation in the two treatment groups: values are given as median (range) or n (%). Difference in dilatation before and after administration of misoprostol and placebo: values are given as median (range) of intraindividual differences. Percentage of women who achieve a cervical dilatation of > or = 5 mm, percentage of women who were difficult to dilate. Acceptability in the two treatment groups: values are given as completely acceptable n (%), fairly acceptable n (%), fairly unacceptable n (%), completely unacceptable n (%). Pain in the two treatment groups: pain was measured with a visual analogue scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (unbearable pain): values are given as median (range). Occurrence of side effects in the two treatment groups. Values are given as n (%). Complications given as n (%). No pharmaceutical company was involved in this study. A research grant from the regional research board of Northern Norway has been awarded to finance Dr K.S.O.'s leave from Hammerfest hospital as well as travel expenses between Hammerfest and Oslo, and research courses. The research grant from Prof B.I.N. (Helse Øst) funded the purchase of estradiol tablets, the manufacturing costs of misoprostol and placebo capsules from the hospital pharmacy, as well as the costs incurred for preparing the randomisation schedule and distribution of containers containing capsules to hospital. Prof B.I.N.'s research grant also funded insurance for the study participants. Estimated completion date 31 December 2008.

Physical factors underlying the association between lower walking performance and falls in older people: a structural equation model.

PubMed

Shimada, Hiroyuki; Tiedemann, Anne; Lord, Stephen R; Suzukawa, Megumi; Makizako, Hyuma; Kobayashi, Kumiko; Suzuki, Takao

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the interrelationships between lower limb muscle performance, balance, gait and falls in older people using structural equation modeling. Study participants were two hundred and thirteen people aged 65 years and older (mean age, 80.0 ± 7.1 years), who used day-care services in Japan. The outcome measures were the history of falls three months retrospectively and physical risk factors for falling, including performance in the chair stand test (CST), one-leg standing test (OLS), tandem walk test, 6m walking time, and the timed up-and-go (TUG) test. Thirty-nine (18.3%) of the 213 participants had fallen at least one or more times during the preceding 3 months. The fall group had significantly slower 6m walking speed and took significantly longer to undertake the TUG test than the non-fall group. In a structural equation model, performance in the CST contributed significantly to gait function, and low gait function was significantly and directly associated with falls in older people. This suggests that task-specific strength exercise as well as general mobility retraining should be important components of exercise programs designed to reduce falls in older people. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of compound music program on cognitive function and QOL in community-dwelling elderly

PubMed Central

Fujita, Takaaki; Ito, Akemi; Kikuchi, Nana; Kakinuma, Tomohiro; Sato, Yoshihisa

2016-01-01

[Purpose] Interventions using music, physical exercise, and reminiscence therapy are widely used both for rehabilitation and care of the elderly. This study aimed to investigate the effect of structured interventions comprising music, physical exercise, and reminiscence therapy on cognitive function and quality of life of the community-dwelling elderly. [Subjects and Methods] The study included 15 community-dwelling elderly people who used a day-care center. Participants underwent sessions comprising the following three factors: 1) singing songs familiar to the elderly; 2) physical exercise to music; and 3) observation of historical pictures. Sessions were conducted once or twice per week, 30 to 40 min per day, for 10 weeks. Pre and post interventions of the Mini Mental State Examination, the Behavioral Rating Scale for the Elderly, and the SF-8 were compared. [Results] No significant difference was observed between pre- and post-intervention scores on the Mini Mental State Examination and the Behavioral Rating Scale for the Elderly. However, the post intervention physical component summary of SF-8 was significantly higher than the pre intervention summary. [Conclusion] This study suggests that interventions comprising music, physical exercise, and reminiscence therapy may contribute toward the improvement of elderly individuals’ health-related quality of life, especially physical health. PMID:27942151

Potential causative agents of acute gastroenteritis in households with preschool children: prevalence, risk factors, clinical relevance and household transmission.

PubMed

Heusinkveld, M; Mughini-Gras, L; Pijnacker, R; Vennema, H; Scholts, R; van Huisstede-Vlaanderen, K W; Kortbeek, T; Kooistra-Smid, M; van Pelt, W

2016-10-01

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) morbidity remains high amongst preschool children, posing a significant societal burden. Empirical data on AGE-causing agents is needed to gauge their clinical relevance and identify agent-specific targets for control. We assessed the prevalence, risk factors and association with symptoms for enteropathogens in households with preschool children. A monthly-repeated cross-sectional survey of enteropathogens in households with preschool children was performed. A parent-child pair per household (n = 907 households) provided faecal samples and reported their symptoms and potential risk exposures. Samples were tested by multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for 19 enteropathogens. Associations were assessed using logistic regression. 28.3 % of children (n = 981) and 15.6 % of parents (n = 971) carried pathogenic bacteria and/or Escherichia coli-associated pathogenicity genes, and 6.5 % and 3.3 % carried viruses, respectively. Giardia lamblia (4.6 % of children, 2.5 % of parents) and Dientamoeba fragilis (36 %, 39 %, respectively) were the main parasites, and were associated with pet exposure. Living in rural areas was associated with carriage of pathogenic E. coli, norovirus I and D. fragilis. Pathogenic E. coli was associated with summertime and livestock exposure. Attending day-care centres increased the risk of carrying norovirus, sapovirus and G. lamblia. Viruses occurred mainly in winter and were associated with AGE symptoms. Child-parent associations were found for bacterial pathogenicity genes, viruses, G. lamblia and D. fragilis. Enteropathogens spread widely in households with preschool children, particularly viruses, which more often cause symptoms. While bacteria predominate during summer and in those exposed to livestock, viruses predominate in wintertime and, like G. lamblia, are widespread amongst day-care centre attendees.

Older adults' preferences for formal social support of autonomy and dependence in pain: development and validation of a scale.

PubMed

Bernardes, Sónia F; Matos, Marta; Goubert, Liesbet

2017-09-01

Chronic pain among older adults is common and often disabling. Pain-related formal social support (e.g., provided by staff at day-care centers, nursing homes), and the extent to which it promotes functional autonomy or dependence, plays a significant role in the promotion of older adults' ability to engage in their daily activities. Assessing older adults' preferences for pain-related social support for functional autonomy or dependence could contribute to increase formal social support responsiveness to individuals' needs. Therefore, this study aimed at developing and validating the preferences for formal social support of autonomy and dependence in pain inventory (PFSSADI). One hundred and sixty-five older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain ( M age  = 79.1, 67.3% women), attending day-care centers, completed the PFSSADI, the revised formal social support for autonomy and dependence in pain inventory, and a measure of desire for (in)dependence; the PFSSADI was filled out again 6 weeks later. Confirmatory factor analyses showed a structure of two correlated factors ( r  = .56): (a) preferences for autonomy support ( α  = .99) and (b) preferences for dependence support ( α  = .98). The scale showed good test-retest reliability, sensitivity and discriminant and concurrent validity; the higher the preferences for dependence support, the higher the desire for dependence ( r  = .33) and the lower the desire for independence ( r  = -.41). The PFSSADI is an innovative tool, which may contribute to explore the role of pain-related social support responsiveness on the promotion of older adults' functional autonomy when in pain.

Allergies, atopy, immune-related factors and childhood rhabdomyosarcoma: a report from the Children's Oncology Group.

PubMed

Lupo, Philip J; Zhou, Renke; Skapek, Stephen X; Hawkins, Douglas S; Spector, Logan G; Scheurer, Michael E; Fatih Okcu, M; Melin, Beatrice; Papworth, Karin; Erhardt, Erik B; Grufferman, Seymour

2014-01-15

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a highly malignant tumor of developing muscle that can occur anywhere in the body. Due to its rarity, relatively little is known about the epidemiology of RMS. Atopic disease is hypothesized to be protective against several malignancies; however, to our knowledge, there have been no assessments of atopy and childhood RMS. Therefore, we explored this association in a case-control study of 322 childhood RMS cases and 322 pair-matched controls. Cases were enrolled in a trial run by the Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group. Controls were matched to cases on race, sex and age. The following atopic conditions were assessed: allergies, asthma, eczema and hives; in addition, we examined other immune-related factors: birth order, day-care attendance and breastfeeding. Conditional logistic-regression models were used to calculate an odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each exposure, adjusted for age, race, sex, household income and parental education. As the two most common histologic types of RMS are embryonal (n=215) and alveolar (n=66), we evaluated effect heterogeneity of these exposures. Allergies (OR=0.60, 95% CI: 0.41-0.87), hives (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.38-0.97), day-care attendance (OR=0.48, 95% CI: 0.32-0.71) and breastfeeding for ≥ 12 months (OR=0.36, 95% CI: 0.18-0.70) were inversely associated with childhood RMS. These exposures did not display significant effect heterogeneity between histologic types (p>0.52 for all exposures). This is the first study indicating that atopic exposures may be protective against childhood RMS, suggesting additional studies are needed to evaluate the immune system's role in the development of this tumor. © 2013 UICC.

Comparative varicella vaccine effectiveness during outbreaks in day-care centres.

PubMed

Spackova, M; Wiese-Posselt, M; Dehnert, M; Matysiak-Klose, D; Heininger, U; Siedler, A

2010-01-08

Routine varicella vaccination for children >11 months was introduced in Germany in 2004 with three different vaccine brands available. In 2008 and 2009, we investigated seven varicella outbreaks in day-care centres (DCC). Varicella disease and vaccination status of 1084 children was reviewed to evaluate vaccination coverage (VC), brand-specific varicella vaccine effectiveness (VE), and risk factors of breakthrough varicella (BV, >42 days after vaccination). A case was defined as a child with acute onset of varicella attending one of the respective DCC at the time of outbreak. Children with a previous history of varicella, age<11 months, vaccinated at age<11 months or <42 days before disease onset or during the outbreak were excluded from VE and BV risk factors analyses (adjusted for gender, age and DCC). Of 631 children with available vaccination information, 392 (62%) were vaccinated at least once. Overall VE among 352 children eligible was 71% (95% confidence interval (CI) 57-81, p<0.001) and differed significantly by disease severity and number of doses administered. Risk for BV was higher for 1 dose of Varilrix (RR=2.8, 95%CI 1.0-7.8, p=0.05) or Priorix-Tetra (RR=2.4, 95%CI 0.7-8.3, p=0.18) but lower for 2 doses of Priorix-Tetra (RR=0.5, 95%CI 0.1-2.7, p=0.41) than for 1 dose of Varivax. Enhanced efforts to increase VC in Germany and 2 doses varicella vaccine might be successful to reduce the risk for BV. The evidence that VE and risk of BV are associated with vaccine brand needs further investigation.

Mumps-containing vaccine effectiveness during outbreaks in two schools in Guangdong, China, 2012.

PubMed

Man, Wang; Jin-Kou, Zhao; Tao, Wang; Li-Xin, Hao; Chao, Ma; Qi-Ru, Su; Hui-Ming, Luo

2012-10-01

Mumps-containing vaccine was licensed in the 1990s in China with a single dose administered routinely to children aged 18-24 months since 2008. However, an increase in reported mumps cases during the period 2009 to 2012 casts doubt on the effectiveness of a single-dose mumps vaccination. In March 2012, large numbers of mumps cases in a day-care centre and primary school in Guangdong Province were investigated to estimate the effectiveness of mumps-containing vaccine. A mumps case was defined as a case with acute onset of unilateral or bilateral swelling of the parotid gland or other salivary glands. Clinical data were collected among students and staff members in the two schools from 6 February to 3 June 2012. Vaccination history was obtained from immunization certificates. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) was calculated among children in classes that had more than two mumps cases. The cohort included 369 children from seven classes, four from the day-care centre and three from the primary school. Vaccination certificates available for 347 children showed immunization coverage of 82% (285/347). The overall attack rate was 14.6% (54/369); the VE for a single dose of mumps vaccine was 65% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 19%-85%) when given within three years and 15% (95% CI: -2%-52%) when given three to six years before the outbreak. For two doses of vaccine the VE was 53% (95% CI: -15-80%). A single dose of mumps-containing vaccine was not effective to prevent these outbreaks among preschool and schoolchildren. A second dose of mumps-containing vaccine to four to five-year-old children should be considered in China.

Health Status of Immigrant Children and Environmental Survey of Child Daycare Centers in Samut Sakhon Province, Thailand.

PubMed

Sagnuankiat, Surapol; Wanichsuwan, Molee; Bhunnachet, Ekaporn; Jungarat, Nahathai; Panraksa, Kanitha; Komalamisra, Chalit; Maipanich, Wanna; Yoonuan, Tippayarat; Pubampen, Somchit; Adisakwattana, Poom; Watthanakulpanich, Dorn

2016-02-01

Samut Sakhon is a Thai province popular among immigrants attracted to work in factories and the Thai food industry, especially people from Myanmar. Poor personal-hygiene behaviors, crowded accommodation and limited sanitation, result in health problems among immigrant workers. Various infectious diseases among this group are seen and managed by Samut Sakhon General Hospital. The impact of intestinal parasitic infections on public health is well known; they can spread from infected immigrant areas to uninfected areas via close contact and fecal-oral transmission from contaminated food and water. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among 372 immigrant children at 8 child-daycare centers during their parents' work time, by physical examination, fecal examination, and examination of the environment around the centers. Physical examinations were generally unremarkable, except that head-lice and fingernail examinations were positive in two cases (0.8 %). The results showed intestinal parasitic infections to be highly prevalent, at 71.0 %. These infections comprised both helminths and protozoa: Trichuris trichiura (50.8 %), Enterobius vermicularis (25.2 %), Ascaris lumbricoides (15.3 %), hookworm (11.6 %), Giardia lamblia (10.2 %), Endolimax nana (3.5 %), Entamoeba coli (2.7 %), and Blastocystis hominis (0.5 %). The environmental survey found a small number of houseflies near the accommodation to be positive for helminthic eggs (0.2 %), including A. lumbricoides, E. vermicularis, hookworms, Taenia spp., and minute intestinal flukes. Regarding the high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among children, it has been conjectured whether they were infected, along with their parents, during their daily lives before or after settling in Thailand. Intestinal parasites among immigrant children may involve a significant epidemiological impact, since immigrant children can serve as carriers and transmitters of disease.

Age at introduction of ultra-processed food among preschool children attending day-care centers.

PubMed

Longo-Silva, Giovana; Silveira, Jonas Augusto C; Menezes, Rísia Cristina Egito de; Toloni, Maysa Helena de Aguiar

To identify the age of introduction of ultra-processed food and its associated factors among preschool children. Cross-sectional study carried out from March to June 2014 with 359 preschool children aged 17 to 63 months attending day-care centers. Time until ultra-processed food introduction (outcome variable) was described by the Kaplan-Meier analysis, and the log-rank test was used to compare the survival functions of independent variables. Factors associated with ultra-processed food introduction were investigated using the multivariate Cox proportional hazards model. The results were shown as hazard ratios with their respective 95% confidence intervals. The median time until ultra-processed food introduction was six months. Between the 3rd and 6th months, there is a significant increase in the probability of introducing ultra-processed food in the children's diet; and while the probability in the 3rd month varies from 0.15 to 0.25, at six months the variation ranges from 0.6 to 1.0. The final Cox proportional hazards model showed that unplanned pregnancy (1.32 [1.05-1.65]), absence of prenatal care (2.50 [1.02-6.16]), and income >2 minimum wages (1, 50 [1.09-2.06]) were independent risk factors for the introduction of ultra-processed food. Up to the 6th month of life, approximately 75% of preschool children had received one or more ultra-processed food in their diet. In addition, it was observed that the poorest families, as well as unfavorable prenatal factors, were associated with early introduction of ultra-processed food. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda.

Effect of cleaning and disinfection of toys on infectious diseases and micro-organisms in daycare nurseries.

PubMed

Ibfelt, T; Engelund, E H; Schultz, A C; Andersen, L P

2015-02-01

The rising number of children in daycare nurseries increases opportunities for the transmission of infectious diseases. Pathogens may be transmitted directly from child to child via sneezing, coughing and touching, or indirectly via the environment. Toys are among the fomites with the highest pathogen load, but their role in disease transmission is unknown. To determine if washing and disinfection of toys can reduce sickness absence and microbial pathogen load in the nursery environment. Twelve nurseries (caring for 587 children) were randomized to intervention and control groups. The intervention consisted of washing and disinfection of toys and linen every two weeks for three months by a commercial cleaning company. The extent and causes of sickness absence among the children were recorded in both groups before and after introduction of the intervention. Ten sampling points in each nursery were examined for bacteria and respiratory viruses. The presence of respiratory virus DNA/RNA was widespread, but very few pathogenic bacteria were found in the environment. The intervention reduced the presence of adenovirus [odds ratio (OR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-5.0], rhinovirus (OR 5.3, 95% CI 2.3-12.4) and respiratory syncytial virus (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.5-11.2) compared with the control group, but the intervention had no effect on sickness absence or disease patterns in the nurseries. Although cleaning and disinfection of toys every two weeks can decrease the microbial load in nurseries, it does not appear to reduce sickness absence among nursery children. Copyright © 2014 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contributions of nonmaternal caregivers to infant feeding in a low-income African-American sample.

PubMed

Barrett, Katherine J; Wasser, Heather M; Thompson, Amanda L; Bentley, Margaret E

2018-04-25

Infant feeding is a well-established topic of interest in obesity research, yet few studies have focused on contributions of nonmaternal caregivers (NMCs)-such as fathers, grandparents, and daycare providers-to infant feeding. Data from the Infant Care, Feeding and Risk of Obesity Project in North Carolina were used to investigate (a) which factors were associated with NMC feeding styles and (b) how NMCs' and mothers' feeding styles compared. Multivariate regression models utilizing random effects were used to analyse data from 108 NMCs who were identified by mothers as being heavily involved in infant feeding. Feeding styles were measured using the Infant Feeding Style Questionnaire. Several individual characteristics were important. Higher laissez faire-attention scores were reported by men and NMCs who lived in the same household as infant. Men reported higher indulgent-coax and indulgent-pamper scores. Perceptions of fussier infants, older infant age, and higher infant weight-for-length z-scores were also important. Mothers' and NMCs' feeding styles differed. Compared with mothers, grandparents reported lower laissez faire and indulgent-permissive scores. Fathers reported higher pressure-soothe and indulgent scores. Daycare providers reported higher restriction-diet quality and responsive satiety. Feeding styles were also predicted to change over time for all caregiver types. These findings highlight the importance of helping all caregivers develop skills that will promote optimal infant feeding outcomes. Given the paucity of research in this area, it is important to improve our understanding of what influences caregivers' feeding styles, especially among diverse populations, and how exposure to different feeding styles may shape children's obesity risk. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Outbreaks of Invasive Kingella kingae Infections in Closed Communities.

PubMed

Yagupsky, Pablo; Ben-Ami, Yael; Trefler, Ronit; Porat, Nurith

2016-02-01

To describe the results of the epidemiologic investigation of outbreaks of invasive Kingella kingae infections among attendees at daycare facilities located in 4 closed communities in Israel. The preschool-aged population of communities with clusters of Kingella cases had oropharyngeal cultures performed. K kingae isolates from infected patients and healthy contacts were genotyped by pulsed field gel electrophoresis to determine the spread of outbreak strains. The affected closed communities (3 military bases and 1 "kibbutz" commune) were characterized by tight social and family networks and intensive mingling. The outbreaks affected 9 of 51 attendees (attack rate: 17.6%) age 8-19 months (median: 12 months), within a 21-day period. Cases included skeletal system infections (n = 8) and bacteremia (n = 1); K kingae isolates were confirmed by the use of blood culture vials and selective media. Clinical presentation was mild and acute-phase reactants were usually normal or only moderately elevated. Thirty out of 55 (54.5%) asymptomatic children carried the outbreak strains. Analysis of the 3 clusters in which the entire preschool-aged population was cultured revealed that 31 of 71 (43.7%) children younger than 24 months of age were colonized with K kingae organisms compared with 8 of 105 (7.6%) older children (P < .001). Clusters of invasive K kingae infections characterized by sudden onset, high attack rate, and wide dissemination of the outbreak strain can occur in daycare facilities and closed communities. Because the mild clinical presentation of invasive K kingae infections and the fastidious nature of the organism, a high index of suspicion and use of sensitive detection methods are recommended. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Vitamin D status in Montréal preschoolers is satisfactory despite low vitamin D intake.

PubMed

El Hayek, Jessy; Pham, Thu Trang; Finch, Sarah; Hazell, Tom J; Jean-Philippe, Sonia; Vanstone, Catherine A; Agellon, Sherry; Rodd, Celia; Rauch, Frank; Weiler, Hope A

2013-02-01

The 2007 to 2009 Canadian Health Measures Survey reported vitamin D status in a representative sample of Canadians (6-79 y); however, children <6 y were not assessed. Our objective was to measure vitamin D intake from food and supplements, sun exposure, and biological vitamin D status of children ages 2 through 5 y in Montréal (latitude 45°N). Preschoolers (n = 508) were recruited between June 2010 and 2011 in a random sample of licensed daycares in the regions of greater Montréal, Canada in a cross-sectional study. The total plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration was measured using a chemiluminescence assay (Liaison, Diasorin). Dietary intake was assessed during one 24-h period plus a 30-d FFQ. Socioeconomic, demographic, anthropometry, and sun exposure data were collected. Plasma 25(OH)D was ≥50 nmol/L in 88% of children, whereas 49.4% had concentrations ≥75 nmol/L during the 1-y study. Almost 95% of preschoolers had vitamin D intakes less than the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR), and 4.8% of preschoolers ≤3.9 y and 25.9% of preschoolers ≥4 y had calcium intakes less than the EAR. Plasma 25(OH)D was different across age, income, sun index, milk intake, and dietary and supplemental vitamin D intake tertiles. Despite vitamin D intakes less than the EAR, the vitamin D status of Montréal preschoolers attending daycare is mostly satisfactory even in winter, suggesting that the EAR value is too high in the context of typical exogenous intakes of vitamin D in North America.

Differences in the use of health resources by Spanish and immigrant HIV-infected patients.

PubMed

Velasco, María; Castilla, Virgilio; Guijarro, Carlos; Moreno, Leonor; Barba, Raquel; Losa, Juan E

2012-10-01

HIV-immigrant use of health services and related cost has hardly been analysed. We compared resource utilisation patterns and direct health care costs between Spanish and immigrant HIV-infected patients. All HIV-infected adult patients treated during the years 2003-2005 (372 patients) in this hospital were included. We evaluated the number of out-patient, Emergency Room (ER) and Day-care Unit visits, and number and length of admissions. Direct costs were analysed. We compared all variables between immigrant and Spanish patients. Immigrants represented 12% (n=43) of the cohort. There were no differences in the number of out-patient, ER, and day-care hospital visits per patient between both groups. The number of hospital admissions per patient for any cause was higher in immigrant than in Spanish patients, 1.3 (4.4) versus 0.9 (2.7), P=.034. A high proportion of visits, both for the immigrant (45.1%) and Spanish patients (43.0%), took place in services other than Infectious Diseases. Mean unitary cost per patient per admission, out-patient visits and ER visits were similar between groups. Pharmacy costs per year was higher in Spanish patients than in immigrants (7351.8 versus 7153.9 euros [year 2005], P=.012). There were no differences in the total cost per patient per year between both groups. The global distribution of cost was very similar between both groups; almost 75% of the total cost was attributed to pharmacy in both groups. There are no significant differences in health resource utilisation and associated costs between immigrant and Spanish HIV patients. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

High prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus colonization among healthy children attending public daycare centers in informal settlements in a large urban center in Brazil.

PubMed

Braga, Eneida Dias Vianna; Aguiar-Alves, Fábio; de Freitas, Maria de Fátima Nogueira; de e Silva, Monique Oliveira; Correa, Thami Valadares; Snyder, Robert E; de Araújo, Verônica Afonso; Marlow, Mariel Asbury; Riley, Lee W; Setúbal, Sérgio; Silva, Licínio Esmeraldo; Araújo Cardoso, Claudete Aparecida

2014-10-06

In the past decade methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become increasingly prevalent in community settings. Attending a daycare center (DCC) is a known risk factor for colonization with MRSA. Brazil operates free, public DCCs for low-income families, some of which are located in census tracts defined by the Brazilian Census Bureau as informal settlements (aglomerados subnormais, AGSN). Physical and demographic characteristics of AGSNs suggest that S. aureus colonization prevalence would be higher, but little is known about the prevalence of MRSA in these settings. We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess risk factors for S. aureus and MRSA colonization among children attending DCCs located in AGSN vs non-AGSN. Nasal swabs were collected from children aged three months to six years in 23 public DCCs in Niterói, Brazil between August 2011 and October 2012. Of 500 children enrolled in the study, 240 (48%) were colonized with S. aureus and 31 (6.2%) were colonized with MRSA. Children attending DCCs in AGSNs were 2.32 times more likely to be colonized with S. aureus (95% CI: 1.32, 4.08), and 3.27 times more likely to be colonized with MRSA than children attending non-AGSN DCCs (95% CI: 1.52, 7.01), adjusted for confounding variables. S. aureus and MRSA colonization prevalence among children attending DCCs in informal settlement census tracts was higher than previously reported in healthy pre-school children in Latin America. Our data suggest that transmission may occur more frequently in DCCs rather than at home, highlighting the importance of DCCs in AGSNs as potential MRSA reservoirs. This finding underscores the importance of local epidemiologic surveillance in vulnerable AGSN communities.

Salem witchcraft and lessons for contemporary forensic psychiatry.

PubMed

Friedman, Susan Hatters; Howie, Andrew

2013-01-01

In 1692 and 1693, in Salem, Massachusetts, more than 150 colonists were accused of witchcraft, resulting in 19 being hanged and one man being crushed to death. Contributions to these events included: historical, religious and cultural belief systems; social and community concerns; economic, gender, and political factors; and local family grievances. Child witnessing, certainty of physician diagnosis, use of special evidence in the absence of scholarly and legal scrutiny, and tautological reasoning were important factors, as well. For forensic psychiatry, the events at Salem in 1692 still hold contemporary implications. These events of three centuries ago call to mind more recent daycare sexual abuse scandals.

A Serious Game to Improve Cognitive Functions in Schizophrenia: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Amado, Isabelle; Brénugat-Herné, Lindsay; Orriols, Eric; Desombre, Colombe; Dos Santos, Maxine; Prost, Zelda; Krebs, Marie-Odile; Piolino, Pascale

2016-01-01

Cognitive deficits in schizophrenia impair everyday functioning and instrumental daily living activities. These disabilities can be partly responsible for chronicity and institutionalization. We present here a virtual reality (VR) tool in which patients with schizophrenia performed a virtual game in an imaginary town during a 3-month program. In a pilot study, seven patients with schizophrenia (DSM-5), institutionalized for many years, attended weekly 1-h-and-a-half sessions organized by two clinicians. During the first sessions, they listed together the difficulties they experienced in everyday organization and planning. After being familiarized with the joystick and the VR environment, they navigated in the town, and planned actions that were difficult for them to carry out in their usual life (e.g., shopping, memorizing the way to the supermarket or being on time at a meeting point). They had to look for alternative routes and practice a switch from a 2D Map to the 3D Map. They also gathered their efforts to share strategies for each action, or discussed the action plan they could generate to solve concrete problems. The pre/post-neuropsychological evaluations showed attention, working memory, prospective, and retrospective memory benefits, but no improvement in planning as assessed by the Zoo map test and the action program subtest of Behavioral Assessment of the Dysexecutive Syndrome. Patients also clinically and functionally improved, gaining autonomy. Pragmatically, they reported a strong energy to elaborate concrete plans to search for jobs, or return to activities in the community. Qualitative assessments showed a benefit in sparing time, planning better, enriched relatedness, and better management of their housework. This VR game opens avenue to rehabilitation for patients with schizophrenia experiencing chronicity in their life, less attendance in daycare units, and a better community living. This program might reduce neurocognitive difficulties and might evolve into a true method for cognitive remediation (trial n° 2011-A00988-33). PMID:27148093

Safe summers: Adapting evidence-based injury prevention into a summer curriculum.

PubMed

Schaeffer, Melody; Cioni, Claire; Kozma, Nicole; Rains, Catherine; Todd, Greta

2017-11-01

Unintentional injury is the leading cause of death for those aged 0 years to 19 years. St. Louis Children's Hospital created Safety Land, a comprehensive injury prevention intervention which is provided during summer months. This program uses a life-size board game to teach safety education to children in ages 5 years to 11 years. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Safety Land on safety knowledge in children that participated in the intervention. St. Louis Children's Hospital identified ZIP codes with the highest use of the emergency room for injury. Daycares and summer camps within these ZIP codes were targeted for the Safety Land intervention. A multiple choice pretest and posttest survey was designed to measure knowledge change within program participants. Students were selected for testing based on site availably. Within these sites, a convenience sample of children was selected for pretesting and posttesting. Safety Land staff conducted the pretest a week before the intervention, and the posttest was administered the week after the intervention. A total knowledge score was calculated to determine overall knowledge change. Descriptive statistics and independent-samples t tests were conducted to determine statistical significance of change in knowledge (p < 0.05) for each question. Between May 2014 and August 2016, 3,866 children participated in Safety Land. A total of 310 children completed the pretest and 274 completed the posttest. Mean test scores increased from 66.7% to 85.1% and independent-samples t test of the total knowledge score was significant (p < 0.05) between pretest and posttest values. Findings suggest that this intervention is effective in increasing the knowledge of safety behaviors for children receiving the curriculum during the summer months. Further research should focus on long-term behavior changes in these youth.

"Coming Out" with a Mental Disorder in Japan: How Self-Stigma and Empowerment Affect this Decision.

PubMed

Nagai, Kuniyoshi; Kajita, Etsuko

2018-03-01

When persons with mental disorders attempt to live independently in the community, they face situations where they must decide whether to disclose their disorder (i.e., "come out"), which will affect self-concept, self-stigma, and empowerment. We conducted a self-reported questionnaire among users of psychiatric daycare facilities (N = 150) to gather correlational data on these variables among others. Sixty-one percent had positive intentions to come out, which was influenced by affirmativeness and self-efficacy. More participants with mood disorders intended on coming out than did those with schizophrenia. Satisfaction with social support encouraged coming-out affirmativeness and autonomy, providing implications for caregivers.

[The frequency of giardiasis in various children's environment].

PubMed

Pikiewicz-Koch, A

1999-01-01

Giardiasis is an intestinal parastic disease, occurring in many world regions. Its incidence is variable and depends on such factors as studied population and diagnostic methods. In this study the incidence of Giardiasis was assessed in children living in various environments and living conditions. Stool examination was made using microscopic and immunoenzymatic methods. Among 208 examined children 42 (20.2%) were infected with Giardia lamblia. Giardiasis was the most common in children living in orphanage--41.4%. Incidence of Giardiasis among children from day--care centers was the lowest--3.7%. Children aged 12-14 years were infected in 42.7% and aged 0-2 years only in 12.5%. There was no significant difference between boys and girls.

Hand washing promotion for preventing diarrhoea

PubMed Central

Ejemot-Nwadiaro, Regina I; Ehiri, John E; Arikpo, Dachi; Meremikwu, Martin M; Critchley, Julia A

2015-01-01

Background Diarrhoea accounts for 1.8 million deaths in children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). One of the identified strategies to prevent diarrhoea is hand washing. Objectives To assess the effects of hand washing promotion interventions on diarrhoeal episodes in children and adults. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register (27 May 2015); CENTRAL (published in the Cochrane Library 2015, Issue 5); MEDLINE (1966 to 27 May 2015); EMBASE (1974 to 27 May 2015); LILACS (1982 to 27 May 2015); PsycINFO (1967 to 27 May 2015); Science Citation Index and Social Science Citation Index (1981 to 27 May 2015); ERIC (1966 to 27 May 2015); SPECTR (2000 to 27 May 2015); Bibliomap (1990 to 27 May 2015); RoRe, The Grey Literature (2002 to 27 May 2015); World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (ICTRP), metaRegister of Controlled Trials (mRCT), and reference lists of articles up to 27 May 2015. We also contacted researchers and organizations in the field. Selection criteria Individually randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster-RCTs that compared the effects of hand washing interventions on diarrhoea episodes in children and adults with no intervention. Data collection and analysis Three review authors independently assessed trial eligibility, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. We stratified the analyses for child day-care centres or schools, community, and hospital-based settings. Where appropriate, incidence rate ratios (IRR) were pooled using the generic inverse variance method and random-effects model with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of evidence. Main results We included 22 RCTs: 12 trials from child day-care centres or schools in mainly high-income countries (54,006 participants), nine community-based trials in LMICs (15,303 participants), and one hospital-based trial among people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) (148 participants). Hand washing promotion (education activities, sometimes with provision of soap) at child day-care facilities or schools prevents around one-third of diarrhoea episodes in high income countries (rate ratio 0.70; 95% CI 0.58 to 0.85; nine trials, 4664 participants, high quality evidence), and may prevent a similar proportion in LMICs but only two trials from urban Egypt and Kenya have evaluated this (rate ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.99; two trials, 45,380 participants, low quality evidence). Only three trials reported measures of behaviour change and the methods of data collection were susceptible to bias. In one trial from the USA hand washing behaviour was reported to improve; and in the trial from Kenya that provided free soap, hand washing did not increase, but soap use did (data not pooled; three trials, 1845 participants, low quality evidence). Hand washing promotion among communities in LMICs probably prevents around one-quarter of diarrhoea episodes (rate ratio 0.72, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.83; eight trials, 14,726 participants, moderate quality evidence). However, six of these eight trials were from Asian settings, with only single trials from South America and sub-Saharan Africa. In six trials, soap was provided free alongside hand washing education, and the overall average effect size was larger than in the two trials which did not provide soap (soap provided: rate ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.78; six trials, 11,422 participants; education only: rate ratio: 0.84, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.05; two trials, 3304 participants). There was increased hand washing at major prompts (before eating/cooking, after visiting the toilet or cleaning the baby's bottom), and increased compliance to hand hygiene procedure (behavioural outcome) in the intervention groups than the control in community trials (data not pooled: three trials, 3490 participants, high quality evidence). Hand washing promotion for the one trial conducted in a hospital among high-risk population showed significant reduction in mean episodes of diarrhoea (1.68 fewer) in the intervention group (Mean difference 1.68, 95% CI 1.93 to 1.43; one trial, 148 participants, moderate quality evidence). There was increase in hand washing frequency, seven times per day in the intervention group versus three times in the control in this hospital trial (one trial, 148 participants, moderate quality evidence). We found no trials evaluating or reporting the effects of hand washing promotions on diarrhoea-related deaths, all-cause-under five mortality, or costs. Authors' conclusions Hand washing promotion probably reduces diarrhoea episodes in both child day-care centres in high-income countries and among communities living in LMICs by about 30%. However, less is known about how to help people maintain hand washing habits in the longer term. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Hand washing promotion for preventing diarrhoea Review question This Cochrane Review summarises trials evaluating the effects of promoting hand washing on the incidence of diarrhoea among children and adults in day-care centres, schools, communities, or hospitals. After searching for relevant trials up to 27 May 2015, we included 22 randomized controlled trials conducted in both high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These trials enrolled 69,309 children and 148 adults. How does hand washing prevent diarrhoea and how might hand washing be promoted Diarrhoea causes many deaths in children below five years of age, mostly in LMICs. The organisms causing diarrhoea are transmitted from person to person through food and water contaminated with faeces, or through person-to-person contact. Hand washing after defecation, or after cleaning a baby's bottom, and before preparing and eating food, can therefore reduce the risk of diarrhoea. Hand washing can be promoted through group or individual training on hygiene education, germ-health awareness, use of posters, leaflets, comic books, songs, and drama. What this review says Hand washing promotion at child day-care facilities or schools in HICs probably prevents around 30% of diarrhoea episodes (high quality evidence), and may prevent a similar proportion in schools in LMICs (low quality evidence). Among communities in LMICs hand washing promotion prevents around 28% of diarrhoea episodes (moderate quality evidence). In the only hospital-based trial included in this review, hand washing promotion also had important reduction in the mean episodes of diarrhoea (moderate quality evidence). This is based on only a single trial with few participants and thus there is need for more trials to confirm this. Effects of hand washing promotion on related hand hygiene behaviour changes improved more in the intervention groups than in the control in all the settings (low to high quality evidence). None of the included trials assessed the effect of handwashing promotion on diarrhoeal-related deaths, all-cause under-five mortality, or the cost-effectiveness of hand washing promotions. Conclusion Hand washing promotion in HICs and LMICs settings may reduce incidence of diarrhoea by about 30%. However, less is known about how to help people maintain hand washing habits in the longer term. PMID:26346329

The person in the disabled body: a perspective on culture and personhood from the margins.

PubMed

Agmon, Maayan; Sa'ar, Amalia; Araten-Bergman, Tal

2016-09-15

Persons with disabilities (PWD) are one of the most marginalized groups in Western societies. These inequalities are manifested through various disadvantages in the psychosocial, cultural, and economic domains. Inspired by the World Health Organization's holistic conceptualization of disability, the present study examines the relation between the body and personhood in Israeli culture, through cases of newly diagnosed adults with disability. Participant observation at a rehabilitation daycare center was carried out for a period of two years. The analysis is based on field notes recorded during these observations, including interviews with individuals with disabilities, their family members, and service providers. The analysis reveals the agonizing experience of individuals who have become disabled in adulthood, who undergo symbolic diminution and social exclusion after their former acceptance as whole and normative persons. This ongoing multifaceted process includes infantilization, denial of their sexuality/sensuality, transgression of gender boundaries, and their construction as categorically different from the "healthy" people around them. At the same time, the analysis also demonstrates the ways in which daily routine at the daycare center also complicates the normative healthy-disabled binary, indicating a continuum on which attendees may attempt to reposition themselves. This paper aims to make a dual contribution. We draw on anthropological understandings of"person" as a holistic category to resurrect the personhood of individuals with disabilities, as a correction tothe overwhelming tendency to reduce their humanity to their physical injury. We likewise reverse theanalytical gaze by using these individuals' experiences to understand the normative, culture-bound perception of "healthy" persons. We thus highlight Israeli culture's conditioning of normative personhood on having a perfect body, and its concomitant construction of individuals with physical disabilities as lesser persons. By opting to bring back the person into the disabled body, we aim to facilitate a less stigmatized outlook on disability and to create an opportunity for caregivers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to view disabled persons as whole and complex human beings.

Understanding the complex determinants of height and adiposity in disadvantaged daycare preschoolers in Salvador, NE Brazil through structural equation modelling.

PubMed

Lander, Rebecca L; Williams, Sheila M; Costa-Ribeiro, Hugo; Mattos, Angela P; Barreto, Danile L; Houghton, Lisa A; Bailey, Karl B; Lander, Alastair G; Gibson, Rosalind S

2015-10-23

Earlier we reported on growth and adiposity in a cross-sectional study of disadvantaged Brazilian preschoolers. Here we extend the work on these children, using structural equation modelling (SEM) to gather information on the complex relationships between the variables influencing height and adiposity. We hope this information will help improve the design and effectiveness of future interventions for preschoolers. In 376 preschoolers aged 3-6 years attending seven philanthropic daycares in Salvador, we used SEM to examine direct and indirect relationships among biological (sex, ethnicity, birth order, maternal height and weight), socio-economic, micronutrient (haemoglobin, serum selenium and zinc), and environmental (helminths, de-worming) variables on height and adiposity, as reflected by Z-scores for height-for-age (HAZ) and body mass index (BMIZ). Of the children, 11 % had HAZ < -1, 15 % had WHZ < -1, and 14 % had BMIZ > 1. Of their mothers, 8 % had short stature, and 50 % were overweight or obese. Based on standardized regression coefficients, significant direct effects (p < 0.05) for HAZ were maternal height (0.39), being white (-0.07), having helminth infection (-0.09), and serum zinc (-0.11). For BMIZ, significant direct effects were maternal weight (0.21), extremely low SES (-0.15), and haemoglobin (0.14). Indirect (p < 0.05) effects for HAZ were sex (being male) (-0.02), helminth infection (-0.01), de-worming treatment (0.01), and serum selenium (-0.02), and for BMIZ were extremely low SES (-0.001), helminth infection (-0.004), and serum selenium (0.02). Of the multiple factors influencing preschoolers' growth, helminth infection was a modifiable risk factor directly and indirectly affecting HAZ and BMIZ, respectively. Hence the WHO de-worming recommendation should include preschoolers living in at-risk environments as well as school-aged children.

[Dietary status of preschool children from day-care kindergartens in six cites of China].

PubMed

Yin, Shian; Su, Yixiang; Liu, Qipei; Zhang, Maoyu

2002-10-01

In order to highlight nutrients of potential concern on deficiency for the age groups under study, the dietary status of preschool children were studied in the kindergartens of Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Changsha and Dalian in 1998-1999. All the children who regularly attended the kindergarten, who were in the age range of 3-6 year old and generally health were considered eligible for enrollment in this study. The final results included a total of 1170 children, with 583 boys and 587 girls. Food weighing method was used in consecutive three-day dietary survey by recording breakfast, lunch and afternoon refreshments in kindergarten. Questionnaire form was applied to record the other food consumption outside of the kindergarten. Nutrient intakes of per child were calculated according to the Chinese Food composition Table. The average energy, protein, iron, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin E, thiamin, riboflavin, and nicotinic acid intakes were adequate in each group. The dietary energy provided by fat was near to the high marginal (30%), which indicated that more fat intake should be avoided in these children. The ratio of energy provided by each meal per day was lower in the breakfast and higher in the dinner and foods consumed at home. The average ratio of calcium to phosphorus for 3-6 years was 0.63. A deficiency of calcium is rather common, and the intake of calcium accounted for only 61.6% of the recommended nutrient intake(RNI). Salt intake was relatively higher than that of adequate intake recommended by Chinese Nutritional Society. The zinc intake reached 62.9% of RNIs. Vitamin C intakes from each age of groups did not meet their RNI. The present study indicates that the deficiencies of some trace nutrients in the diets for preschool children in day-care kindergartens is probably related to that the body weight and height of preschool children have not achieved a "satisfactory" level.

A randomized, controlled trial of diathermy hemorrhoidectomy vs. stapled hemorrhoidectomy in an intended day-care setting with longer-term follow-up.

PubMed

Cheetham, M J; Cohen, C R G; Kamm, M A; Phillips, R K S

2003-04-01

Hemorrhoidectomy is the most effective long-term treatment for hemorrhoids. Although it is possible to perform hemorrhoidectomy as a day case with a high degree of patient satisfaction, patients take an average of 14 days off work after surgery. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is believed to be less painful than conventional hemorrhoidectomy and should allow an earlier return to work. The aim of this study was to compare both the immediate and the long-term results of stapled hemorrhoidectomy with diathermy hemorrhoidectomy in patients with prolapsing internal hemorrhoids in an intended day-care setting. Thirty-one patients were randomly assigned to undergo diathermy hemorrhoidectomy (n = 16) or stapled hemorrhoidectomy performed with a purpose-designed endoluminal stapling device, PPH01T (n = 15). All operations were planned as day or short-stay cases. All patients received lactulose, commenced preoperatively, together with postoperative topical glyceryl trinitrate and oral metronidazole. Patients were assessed by structured interview to assess their symptoms before and after surgery, with an intended follow-up of six months. All patients completed a 10-cm visual analog pain scale daily for the first ten days after surgery. The total pain score (sum of all pain scores) was significantly higher in the diathermy group (50 (range, 9.8-79.9) vs. 19.6 (range, 1.3-89.5), P = 0.03). Patients took a median of 14 (range, 3-21) days off work after diathermy hemorrhoidectomy compared with 10 (range, 3-38) days for the patients undergoing stapled hemorrhoidectomy (P = 0.15). At long-term follow-up, three patients (all in the stapled group) developed new symptoms of fecal urgency and anal pain, and three patients required further surgery to remove symptomatic external hemorrhoids after stapled hemorrhoidectomy. Although stapled hemorrhoidectomy is less painful in the short term, this does not lead to a significantly earlier return to work, and some patients develop new symptoms at long-term follow-up.

The GLOBE Program: Partnerships in Action

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henderson, S.; Kennedy, T.; Lemone, M.; Blurton, C.

2004-12-01

The GLOBE Program is a worldwide science and education partnership endeavor designed to increase scientific understanding of Earth as a system, support improved student achievement in science and math, and enhance environmental awareness through inquiry-based learning activities. GLOBE began on the premise that teachers and their students would partner with scientists to collect and analyze environmental data using specific protocols in five study areas - atmosphere, soils, hydrology, land cover, and phenology. As the GLOBE network grew, additional partnerships flourished making GLOBE an unprecedented collaboration of individuals worldwide - primary, secondary, and tertiary students, teachers and teacher educators, scientists, government officials, and others - to improve K-12 education. Since its inception in 1994, more than one million students in over 14,000 schools around the world have taken part in The GLOBE Program. The GLOBE Web site (http://www.globe.gov) is the repository for over 11 million student-collected data measurements easily accessible to students and scientists worldwide. Utilizing the advantages of the Internet for information sharing and communication, GLOBE has created an international community. GLOBE enriches students by giving them the knowledge and skills that they will need to become informed citizens and responsible decision-makers in an increasingly complex world. Understanding that all members of a community must support change if it is to be sustainable, GLOBE actively encourages the development of GLOBE Learning Communities (GLCs) which are designed to get diverse stakeholder groups involved in a local or regional environmental issue. Central to the GLC is the engagement of local schools. GLCs go beyond individual teachers implementing GLOBE in the isolation of their classrooms. Instead, the GLC brings multiple teachers and grade levels together to examine environmental issues encouraging the participation of a broad range of community members who share a common commitment to supporting teachers and students in the implementation of GLOBE for the benefit of their community. A GLC might begin as a GLOBE Partner based at a university works with teachers and students from primary and secondary schools in the local school district, and then branches out to include parents, youth clubs, scientists, senior citizens, other colleges and universities, daycare centers, museums, businesses, government agencies and more. In the past decade, as the variety and diversity of partnerships within the GLOBE Program expanded, lessons have been learned that may be of use to other programs intent on implementing partnership programs to sustain systemic changes in K-12 Earth Science Education. This presentation will chronicle the GLOBE journey including results of annual program evaluations.

The impact of different background noises: effects on cognitive performance and perceived disturbance in employees with aided hearing impairment and normal hearing.

PubMed

Hua, Håkan; Emilsson, Magnus; Kähäri, Kim; Widén, Stephen; Möller, Claes; Lyxell, Björn

2014-10-01

Health care professionals frequently meet employees with hearing impairment (HI) who experience difficulties at work. There are indications that the majority of these difficulties might be related to the presence of background noise. Moreover, research has also shown that high-level noise has a more detrimental effect on cognitive performance and self-rated disturbance in individuals with HI than low-level noise. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of different types of background noise on cognitive performance and perceived disturbance (PD) in employees with aided HI and normal hearing. A mixed factorial design was conducted to examine the effect of noise in four experimental conditions. A total of 40 participants (21 men and 19 women) were recruited to take part in the study. The study sample consisted of employees with HI (n = 20) and normal hearing (n = 20). The group with HI had a mild-moderate sensorineural HI, and they were all frequent hearing-aid users. The current study was conducted by using four general work-related tasks (mental arithmetic, orthographic decoding, phonological decoding, and serial recall) in four different background conditions: (1) quiet, (2) office noise at 56 dBA, (3) daycare noise at 73.5 dBA, and (4) traffic noise at 72.5 dBA. Reaction time and the proportion of correct answers in the working tasks were used as outcome measures of cognitive performance. The Borg CR-10 scale was used to assess PD. Data collection occurred on two separate sessions, completed within 4 wk of each other. All tasks and experimental conditions were used in a counterbalanced order. Two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures was performed to analyze the results. To examine interaction effects, pairwise t-tests were used. Pearson correlation coefficients between reaction time and proportion of correct answers, and cognitive performance and PD were also calculated to examine the possible correlation between the different variables. No significant between-group or within-group differences in cognitive performance were observed across the four background conditions. Ratings of PD showed that both groups rated PD according to noise level, where higher noise level generated a higher PD. The present findings also demonstrated that the group with HI was more disturbed by higher than lower levels of noise (i.e., traffic and daycare setting compared with office setting). This pattern was observed consistently throughout four working tasks where the group with HI reported a significantly greater PD in the daycare and traffic settings compared with office noise. The present results demonstrate that background noise does not impair cognitive performance in nonauditory tasks in employees with HI and normal hearing, but that PD is affected to a greater extent in employees with HI during higher levels of background noise exposure. In addition, this study also supports previous studies regarding the detrimental effects that high-level noise has on employees with HI. Therefore, we emphasize the need of both self-rated and cognitive measurements in hearing care and occupational health services for both employees with normal hearing and HI. American Academy of Audiology.

[Establishing ward-independent, intensive treatment concept in a psychiatric hospital : A model project within the new German remuneration system].

PubMed

Noeker, M; Juckel, G

2017-03-01

Model projects according to § 64b of the Social Code V in the context of the new remuneration system in psychiatry and psychosomatics, offer great possibilities to improve the treatment of people with mental illnesses. This article presents the model project of the University Hospital Bochum, which is essentially characterized by improved transition through the internal hospital sections so that patients can be quickly transferred from inpatient and daycare sections to high frequency outpatient sections with ward-independent therapies (SUL), including outreach home treatment. The SUL is also intended to facilitate preadmission crises, to significantly reduce duration of inpatient treatment and to maximize post-inpatient continuity of treatment.

Getting to know you: using documentary video-making to challenge ageist stereotypes.

PubMed

Lee, Terry

2012-01-01

The article theorizes that augmenting traditional humanities course work with documentary video-making can enhance and motivate learning. The English class profiled focused on aging and the lives of elders in an adult daycare center and a retirement community. Students documented elders' stories in video over 15 weeks. The instructor's goal was to use the immediacy of video to challenge and dismantle ageist stereotypes. Documentary video-making is a simple, and enticing, technology that gives students a powerful tool for getting to know elders. Scholarship on classroom uses of digital video-making is discussed, and critical comments from the five reflective essays students wrote during the semester are used to track changes in student perceptions of elders.

Recent advances in environmental controls outside the home setting.

PubMed

Hauptman, Marissa; Phipatanakul, Wanda

2016-04-01

It has been well studied that aeroallergen, mold, and airborne pollutant exposure in the inner-city home environment is associated with significant childhood asthma morbidity. Although the home environment has been extensively studied, the school environment is less well understood. In this article, we discuss the relationship between environmental exposures within the school and daycare environment and pediatric asthma morbidity and novel environmental interventions designed to help mitigate pediatric asthma morbidity. Studies assessing environmental exposures outside the home environment and interventions to mitigate these exposures have the potential to reduce pediatric asthma morbidity. Further study in this area should focus on the complex cost benefit analyses of environmental interventions outside the home setting, while controlling for the home environment.

Encouraging alternative forms of self expression in the generation Y student: a strategy for effective learning in the classroom.

PubMed

Arhin, Afua Ottie; Johnson-Mallard, Versie

2003-01-01

A majority of students in the classrooms of colleges and universities today, are a product of a generation of latch key kids in which daycare, babysitters, television, and computers serve as surrogate parents. With the proliferation of technology, the internet, beepers and cell phones have become social lifelines for this generation. They are technology savvy, independent and resourceful. Conditioned to expect immediate gratification, these youth have shorter attention spans and also a low threshold for boredom. It can be quite a challenge for educators to keep these young people engaged in the classroom. This paper presents an innovative teaching/learning strategy used in a nursing school in Florida that accommodates the unique characteristics of these learners.

A Nanny Versus Daycare: Is There a Right Choice?

PubMed

Kimball, Valerie

2016-02-01

As spring is on the horizon, my children begin to anticipate the end of the school year with thoughts of sleeping in, free days at the pool, and long evenings outside with friends. I, too, look forward to this time of the year, and a much needed hiatus from coaxing kids out of bed, making school lunches, and homework help in the evenings. However, I do not look forward to finding a new "kid sitter" for my preteens and teenager. Choice of childcare is perceived as perhaps one of the most stressful decisions parents must make for their children. Pediatic caregivers should discuss childcare as early as the prenatal visit and at all well visits thereafter. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Preschool children's mathematical knowledge: The effect of teacher "math talk.".

PubMed

Klibanoff, Raquel S; Levine, Susan C; Huttenlocher, Janellen; Vasilyeva, Marina; Hedges, Larry V

2006-01-01

This study examined the relation between the amount of mathematical input in the speech of preschool or day-care teachers and the growth of children's conventional mathematical knowledge over the school year. Three main findings emerged. First, there were marked individual differences in children's conventional mathematical knowledge by 4 years of age that were associated with socioeconomic status. Second, there were dramatic differences in the amount of math-related talk teachers provided. Third, and most important, the amount of teachers' math-related talk was significantly related to the growth of preschoolers' conventional mathematical knowledge over the school year but was unrelated to their math knowledge at the start of the school year. Copyright 2006 APA, all rights reserved.

Qualitative Analysis of Resources and Barriers for Borderline Personality Disorder in the U.S.

PubMed Central

Lohman, Matthew C.; Whiteman, Karen L.; Yeomans, Frank E.; Cherico, Sheila A.; Christ, Winifred R.

2016-01-01

Objective Resources and treatment for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) are limited and often difficult to obtain. Experiences and preferences of individuals seeking care are seldom examined but important elements in determining challenges to obtaining appropriate care. This article aimed to identify key resources for and barriers to obtaining supportive and treatment services for BPD, from the perspective of individuals seeking care. Methods Data came from transcripts of resource requests made to the Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center from January 2008 to December 2015 (N=6,253). Basic statistics regarding requested BPD service types, demographic information, and national distribution of requests were generated for all eligible transcripts. Qualitative analysis was used to identify themes, challenges, and common experiences reported among a random subset of those seeking services (N=500). Results Primary services or resources requested were outpatient services (51%), informational materials (13%), and daycare programs (9%). Care-seekers identified family services, crisis intervention, and mental health literacy as areas where available resources did not meet current demand and which could be improved and/or expanded. Factors identified as potential barriers to finding and obtaining appropriate treatment for BPD included stigmatization and marginalization within mental healthcare systems, financial concerns, and comorbidity with psychiatric or medical disorders. Conclusions Individuals seeking supportive services and treatment for BPD face numerous barriers to obtaining appropriate care. Expanded services and resources to connect individuals with treatment are needed to meet the current demands and preferences of those seeking care. PMID:27691382

Efficiency, new equity capital enable systems to compete.

PubMed

Brown, M; McCool, B P

1985-01-01

Because of limited cash, sponsors of some community and religious hospitals have sought to sell or lease their institutions to a not-for-profit (NFP) system or to a for-profit system. A number of national alliances address the capital formation problem of NFP institutions. Until now they have been almost exclusively concerned with acquiring less costly debt. Without new equity capital, market influence is difficult to obtain. Even well-managed voluntary systems face a serious threat from well-capitalized investor-owned systems. Increased competition among hospitals and physicians will force future advantages to those who have capital. It will also restrict funding of certain programs and services by voluntary enterprises. In anticipation of this, various forms of partnerships have developed with investor-owned systems. To regain the initiative as the premier sponsors of health care, religious and other voluntary systems must go beyond merely competing in their markets to acquiring weaker institutions. They also must revitalize private giving and excel in efficiency to offset threats from ambulatory, day-care operations and from high-technology hospitals. Structural changes in the industry can be predicted, including the following: The trend toward integration for production, financing, and marketing will continue. Public market equity capital will be increasingly used to finance medical practice. Hospitals that sell their equity values will establish service foundations. National alliances will continue, but strictly local systems will maintain operation. Investor-owned systems will move increasingly into high-technology tertiary care.

Effects of Exercise on Cognition: The Finnish Alzheimer Disease Exercise Trial: A Randomized, Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Öhman, Hannareeta; Savikko, Niina; Strandberg, Timo E; Kautiainen, Hannu; Raivio, Minna M; Laakkonen, Marja-Liisa; Tilvis, Reijo; Pitkälä, Kaisu H

2016-04-01

To examine whether a regular, long-term exercise program performed by individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) at home or as group-based exercise at an adult daycare center has beneficial effects on cognition; to examine secondary outcomes of a trial that has been published earlier. Randomized, controlled trial. Community. Community-dwelling dyads (N = 210) of individuals with AD and their spousal caregivers randomized into three groups. Two types of intervention comprising customized home-based exercise (HE) and group-based exercise (GE), each twice a week for 1 year, were compared with a control group (CG) receiving usual community care. Cognitive function was measured using the Clock Drawing Test (CDT), Verbal Fluency (VF), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up. Executive function, measured using CDT, improved in the HE group, and changes in the score were significantly better than those of the CG at 12 months (adjusted for age, sex, and CDR, P = .03). All groups deteriorated in VF and MMSE score during the intervention, and no significant differences between the groups were detected at 12-month follow-up when analyses were adjusted for age, sex, and CDR. Regular, long-term, customized HE improved the executive function of community-dwelling older people with memory disorders, but the effects were mild and were not observed in other domains of cognition. © 2016, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2016, The American Geriatrics Society.

A comparative signaling cost analysis of Macro Mobility scheme in NEMO (MM-NEMO) with mobility management protocol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Islam, Shayla; Abdalla, Aisha H.; Habaebi, Mohamed H.; Latif, Suhaimi A.; Hassan, Wan H.; Hasan, Mohammad K.; Ramli, H. A. M.; Khalifa, Othman O.

2013-12-01

NEMO BSP is an upgraded addition to Mobile IPv6 (MIPv6). As MIPv6 and its enhancements (i.e. HMIPv6) possess some limitations like higher handoff latency, packet loss, NEMO BSP also faces all these shortcomings by inheritance. Network Mobility (NEMO) is involved to handle the movement of Mobile Router (MR) and it's Mobile Network Nodes (MNNs) during handoff. Hence it is essential to upgrade the performance of mobility management protocol to obtain continuous session connectivity with lower delay and packet loss in NEMO environment. The completion of handoff process in NEMO BSP usually takes longer period since MR needs to register its single primary care of address (CoA) with home network that may cause performance degradation of the applications running on Mobile Network Nodes. Moreover, when a change in point of attachment of the mobile network is accompanied by a sudden burst of signaling messages, "Signaling Storm" occurs which eventually results in temporary congestion, packet delays or even packet loss. This effect is particularly significant for wireless environment where a wireless link is not as steady as a wired link since bandwidth is relatively limited in wireless link. Hence, providing continuous Internet connection without any interruption through applying multihoming technique and route optimization mechanism in NEMO are becoming the center of attention to the current researchers. In this paper, we propose a handoff cost model to compare the signaling cost of MM-NEMO with NEMO Basic Support Protocol (NEMO BSP) and HMIPv6.The numerical results shows that the signaling cost for the MM-NEMO scheme is about 69.6 % less than the NEMO-BSP and HMIPv6.

Remote population-based intervention for disruptive behavior at age four: study protocol for a randomized trial of Internet-assisted parent training (Strongest Families Finland-Canada).

PubMed

McGrath, Patrick J; Sourander, Andre; Lingley-Pottie, Patricia; Ristkari, Terja; Cunningham, Charles; Huttunen, Jukka; Filbert, Katharine; Aromaa, Minna; Corkum, Penny; Hinkka-Yli-Salomäki, Susanna; Kinnunen, Malin; Lampi, Katja; Penttinen, Anne; Sinokki, Atte; Unruh, Anita; Vuorio, Jenni; Watters, Carolyn

2013-10-21

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is characterized by angry and noncompliant behaviour. It is the most common disruptive behaviour disorder (DBD), with prevalence estimates of 6-9% for preschoolers and is closely linked to several long-term difficulties, including disorders of conduct, mood, anxiety, impulse-control, and substance abuse. ODD in children is related to parental depression, family dysfunction, and impairments in parental work performance. Children displaying early DBDs exhibit more symptoms of greater severity, more frequent offences, and commit more serious crimes later in life. The goal of the Strongest Families Finland Canada (SFFC) Smart Website intervention research program is to develop and evaluate an affordable, accessible, effective secondary prevention parent training program for disruptive behaviour in preschoolers to prevent the negative sequelae of ODD. Strongest Families is an 11-session program with two booster sessions that focuses on teaching skills to: strengthen parent-child relationships; reinforce positive behaviour; reduce conflict; manage daily transitions; plan for potentially problematic situations; promote emotional regulation and pro-social behaviour and decrease antisocial behaviour. This protocol paper describes an ongoing population-based randomized controlled trial (RCT) of high-risk 4 year-olds attending well-child clinics in Turku, Finland and environs to examine the effectiveness of the Strongest Families Smart Website intervention compared to an Education Control condition. Randomization consists of a 1:1 ratio for intervention versus the education group, stratified by the child's sex. The participants randomized to the intervention group receive access to the Strongest Families Smart Website and weekly telephone coaching sessions. The participants randomized to the Education Control condition receive access to a static website with parenting tips. Children are followed using parental and daycare teacher measures at 6 and 12 months after randomization. The Strongest Families Smart Website intervention is hypothesized to improve parenting skills, reduce child disruptive behaviour, reduce parental distress and improve family functioning. These results will likely inform subsequent investigations, public policy, and early treatment of childhood disruptive behaviour problems. ClinicalTrials.gov # NCT01750996.

Remote population-based intervention for disruptive behavior at age four: study protocol for a randomized trial of Internet-assisted parent training (Strongest Families Finland-Canada)

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is characterized by angry and noncompliant behaviour. It is the most common disruptive behaviour disorder (DBD), with prevalence estimates of 6-9% for preschoolers and is closely linked to several long-term difficulties, including disorders of conduct, mood, anxiety, impulse-control, and substance abuse. ODD in children is related to parental depression, family dysfunction, and impairments in parental work performance. Children displaying early DBDs exhibit more symptoms of greater severity, more frequent offences, and commit more serious crimes later in life. The goal of the Strongest Families™ Finland Canada (SFFC) Smart Website intervention research program is to develop and evaluate an affordable, accessible, effective secondary prevention parent training program for disruptive behaviour in preschoolers to prevent the negative sequelae of ODD. Strongest Families is an 11-session program with two booster sessions that focuses on teaching skills to: strengthen parent–child relationships; reinforce positive behaviour; reduce conflict; manage daily transitions; plan for potentially problematic situations; promote emotional regulation and pro-social behaviour and decrease antisocial behaviour. Methods/design This protocol paper describes an ongoing population-based randomized controlled trial (RCT) of high-risk 4 year-olds attending well-child clinics in Turku, Finland and environs to examine the effectiveness of the Strongest Families Smart Website intervention compared to an Education Control condition. Randomization consists of a 1:1 ratio for intervention versus the education group, stratified by the child’s sex. The participants randomized to the intervention group receive access to the Strongest Families Smart Website and weekly telephone coaching sessions. The participants randomized to the Education Control condition receive access to a static website with parenting tips. Children are followed using parental and daycare teacher measures at 6 and 12 months after randomization. Discussion The Strongest Families Smart Website intervention is hypothesized to improve parenting skills, reduce child disruptive behaviour, reduce parental distress and improve family functioning. These results will likely inform subsequent investigations, public policy, and early treatment of childhood disruptive behaviour problems. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov # NCT01750996 PMID:24139323

Hand washing promotion for preventing diarrhoea.

PubMed

Ejemot-Nwadiaro, Regina I; Ehiri, John E; Arikpo, Dachi; Meremikwu, Martin M; Critchley, Julia A

2015-09-03

Diarrhoea accounts for 1.8 million deaths in children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). One of the identified strategies to prevent diarrhoea is hand washing. To assess the effects of hand washing promotion interventions on diarrhoeal episodes in children and adults. We searched the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group Specialized Register (27 May 2015); CENTRAL (published in the Cochrane Library 2015, Issue 5); MEDLINE (1966 to 27 May 2015); EMBASE (1974 to 27 May 2015); LILACS (1982 to 27 May 2015); PsycINFO (1967 to 27 May 2015); Science Citation Index and Social Science Citation Index (1981 to 27 May 2015); ERIC (1966 to 27 May 2015); SPECTR (2000 to 27 May 2015); Bibliomap (1990 to 27 May 2015); RoRe, The Grey Literature (2002 to 27 May 2015); World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (ICTRP), metaRegister of Controlled Trials (mRCT), and reference lists of articles up to 27 May 2015. We also contacted researchers and organizations in the field. Individually randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster-RCTs that compared the effects of hand washing interventions on diarrhoea episodes in children and adults with no intervention. Three review authors independently assessed trial eligibility, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. We stratified the analyses for child day-care centres or schools, community, and hospital-based settings. Where appropriate, incidence rate ratios (IRR) were pooled using the generic inverse variance method and random-effects model with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of evidence. We included 22 RCTs: 12 trials from child day-care centres or schools in mainly high-income countries (54,006 participants), nine community-based trials in LMICs (15,303 participants), and one hospital-based trial among people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) (148 participants).Hand washing promotion (education activities, sometimes with provision of soap) at child day-care facilities or schools prevents around one-third of diarrhoea episodes in high income countries (rate ratio 0.70; 95% CI 0.58 to 0.85; nine trials, 4664 participants, high quality evidence), and may prevent a similar proportion in LMICs but only two trials from urban Egypt and Kenya have evaluated this (rate ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.99; two trials, 45,380 participants, low quality evidence). Only three trials reported measures of behaviour change and the methods of data collection were susceptible to bias. In one trial from the USA hand washing behaviour was reported to improve; and in the trial from Kenya that provided free soap, hand washing did not increase, but soap use did (data not pooled; three trials, 1845 participants, low quality evidence).Hand washing promotion among communities in LMICs probably prevents around one-quarter of diarrhoea episodes (rate ratio 0.72, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.83; eight trials, 14,726 participants, moderate quality evidence). However, six of these eight trials were from Asian settings, with only single trials from South America and sub-Saharan Africa. In six trials, soap was provided free alongside hand washing education, and the overall average effect size was larger than in the two trials which did not provide soap (soap provided: rate ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.78; six trials, 11,422 participants; education only: rate ratio: 0.84, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.05; two trials, 3304 participants). There was increased hand washing at major prompts (before eating/cooking, after visiting the toilet or cleaning the baby's bottom), and increased compliance to hand hygiene procedure (behavioural outcome) in the intervention groups than the control in community trials (data not pooled: three trials, 3490 participants, high quality evidence).Hand washing promotion for the one trial conducted in a hospital among high-risk population showed significant reduction in mean episodes of diarrhoea (1.68 fewer) in the intervention group (Mean difference 1.68, 95% CI 1.93 to 1.43; one trial, 148 participants, moderate quality evidence). There was increase in hand washing frequency, seven times per day in the intervention group versus three times in the control in this hospital trial (one trial, 148 participants, moderate quality evidence).We found no trials evaluating or reporting the effects of hand washing promotions on diarrhoea-related deaths, all-cause-under five mortality, or costs. Hand washing promotion probably reduces diarrhoea episodes in both child day-care centres in high-income countries and among communities living in LMICs by about 30%. However, less is known about how to help people maintain hand washing habits in the longer term.

A Cluster Randomized-Controlled Trial of the Impact of the Tools of the Mind Curriculum on Self-Regulation in Canadian Preschoolers.

PubMed

Solomon, Tracy; Plamondon, Andre; O'Hara, Arland; Finch, Heather; Goco, Geraldine; Chaban, Peter; Huggins, Lorrie; Ferguson, Bruce; Tannock, Rosemary

2017-01-01

Early self-regulation predicts school readiness, academic success, and quality of life in adulthood. Its development in the preschool years is rapid and also malleable. Thus, preschool curricula that promote the development of self-regulation may help set children on a more positive developmental trajectory. We conducted a cluster-randomized controlled trial of the Tools of the Mind preschool curriculum, a program that targets self-regulation through imaginative play and self-regulatory language (Tools; clinical trials identifier NCT02462733). Previous research with Tools is limited, with mixed evidence of its effectiveness. Moreover, it is unclear whether it would benefit all preschoolers or primarily those with poorly developed cognitive capacities (e.g., language, executive function, attention). The study goals were to ascertain whether the Tools program leads to greater gains in self-regulation compared to Playing to Learn (YMCA PTL), another play based program that does not target self-regulation specifically, and whether the effects were moderated by children's initial language and hyperactivity/inattention. Two hundred and sixty 3- to 4-year-olds attending 20 largely urban daycares were randomly assigned, at the site level, to receive either Tools or YMCA PTL (the business-as-usual curriculum) for 15 months. We assessed self-regulation at pre-, mid and post intervention, using two executive function tasks, and two questionnaires regarding behavior at home and at school, to capture development in cognitive as well as socio-emotional aspects of self-regulation. Fidelity data showed that only the teachers at the Tools sites implemented Tools, and did so with reasonable success. We found that children who received Tools made greater gains on a behavioral measure of executive function than their YMCA PTL peers, but the difference was significant only for those children whose parents rated them high in hyperactivity/inattention initially. The effect of Tools did not vary with children's initial language skills. We suggest that, as both programs promote quality play and that the two groups fared similarly well overall, Tools and YMCA PTL may be effective curricula choices for a diverse preschool classroom. However, Tools may be advantageous in classrooms with children experiencing greater challenges with self-regulation, at no apparent cost to those less challenged in this regard.

A Cluster Randomized-Controlled Trial of the Impact of the Tools of the Mind Curriculum on Self-Regulation in Canadian Preschoolers

PubMed Central

Solomon, Tracy; Plamondon, Andre; O’Hara, Arland; Finch, Heather; Goco, Geraldine; Chaban, Peter; Huggins, Lorrie; Ferguson, Bruce; Tannock, Rosemary

2018-01-01

Early self-regulation predicts school readiness, academic success, and quality of life in adulthood. Its development in the preschool years is rapid and also malleable. Thus, preschool curricula that promote the development of self-regulation may help set children on a more positive developmental trajectory. We conducted a cluster-randomized controlled trial of the Tools of the Mind preschool curriculum, a program that targets self-regulation through imaginative play and self-regulatory language (Tools; clinical trials identifier NCT02462733). Previous research with Tools is limited, with mixed evidence of its effectiveness. Moreover, it is unclear whether it would benefit all preschoolers or primarily those with poorly developed cognitive capacities (e.g., language, executive function, attention). The study goals were to ascertain whether the Tools program leads to greater gains in self-regulation compared to Playing to Learn (YMCA PTL), another play based program that does not target self-regulation specifically, and whether the effects were moderated by children’s initial language and hyperactivity/inattention. Two hundred and sixty 3- to 4-year-olds attending 20 largely urban daycares were randomly assigned, at the site level, to receive either Tools or YMCA PTL (the business-as-usual curriculum) for 15 months. We assessed self-regulation at pre-, mid and post intervention, using two executive function tasks, and two questionnaires regarding behavior at home and at school, to capture development in cognitive as well as socio-emotional aspects of self-regulation. Fidelity data showed that only the teachers at the Tools sites implemented Tools, and did so with reasonable success. We found that children who received Tools made greater gains on a behavioral measure of executive function than their YMCA PTL peers, but the difference was significant only for those children whose parents rated them high in hyperactivity/inattention initially. The effect of Tools did not vary with children’s initial language skills. We suggest that, as both programs promote quality play and that the two groups fared similarly well overall, Tools and YMCA PTL may be effective curricula choices for a diverse preschool classroom. However, Tools may be advantageous in classrooms with children experiencing greater challenges with self-regulation, at no apparent cost to those less challenged in this regard. PMID:29403411

Instrumented toys for assessing spatial cognition in infants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campolo, Domenico; Taffoni, Fabrizio; Formica, Domenico; Keller, Flavio; Guglielmelli, Eugenio

2011-03-01

This paper describes an interdisciplinary approach to the assessment on infants' behavior, with a focus on the technology. The goal is an objective, quantitative analysis of concurrent maturation of sensory, motor and cognitive abilities in young children, in relation to the achievement of developmental milestones. An instrumented block-box toy specifically developed to assess the ability to insert objects into holes is presented. The functional specifications are derived from experimental protocols devised by neuroscientists to assess spatial cognition skills. Technological choices are emphasized with respect to ecological requirements. An ad hoc calibration procedure is also presented which is suitable to unstructured environments. Finally, preliminary tests carried out at a local day-care with 12-24 months old infants are presented which prove the in-field usability of the proposed technology.

[Structural quality in inpatient and daycare child and adolescent psychiatry- indicators for planning future staff ratios for the era following the Psychiatry Personnel Act].

PubMed

Schepker, Renate; Fegert, Jörg M; Becker, Katja

2015-11-01

The German Psychiatry Personnel Act, which went into effect in 1990, has led to a decrease in the number of child and adolescent psychiatry inpatient beds, to a decrease in the length of stay, and to an increase in inpatient psychotherapy. Today, this act is outdated~ for a number of reasons, such as changes in the morbidity of the population, the rising number of emergencies, and new professional standards such as documentation. In addition, new legal provisions and conventions (like the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child) necessitate a complete reevaluation. Child and adolescent psychiatry needs a normative act to enable the necessary implementation. Many different rationales are available to support the debate.

[Kinshicho Model for Community Care by Multifunctional Vertical Integration of Psychiatric Care].

PubMed

Kubota, Akira

2015-01-01

The future of psychiatric community care in Japan requires a medical team for outpatient care to offer support and take responsibility for a region; respecting human rights and supporting high risk patients who have concluded a long-period of hospitalized or repeated involuntary commitment, and for people who suffer from social withdraws over a long period of time. There are over 3,000 private psychiatric outpatient clinics in Japan. Over 400 of them are multifunctional psychiatric outpatient clinics that provide daycare services and outreach activities. In the future, if systematized those clinics entrusted by an administrative organ with performing as a "community mental health center". Multifunctional vertical integration of psychiatric care is possible in Japan to create a catchment area with 24 hours phone service and continued free access.

Risk factors for invasive pneumococcal disease among children less than 5 years of age in a high HIV prevalence setting, South Africa, 2010 to 2012.

PubMed

von Mollendorf, Claire; Cohen, Cheryl; de Gouveia, Linda; Naidoo, Nireshni; Meiring, Susan; Quan, Vanessa; Lindani, Sonwabo; Moore, David P; Reubenson, Gary; Moshe, Mamokgethi; Eley, Brian; Hallbauer, Ute M; Finlayson, Heather; Madhi, Shabir A; Conklin, Laura; Zell, Elizabeth R; Klugman, Keith P; Whitney, Cynthia G; von Gottberg, Anne

2015-01-01

Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) causes significant disease burden, especially in developing countries, even in the era of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and maternal-to-child HIV transmission prevention programs. We evaluated factors that might increase IPD risk in young children in a high HIV prevalence setting. We conducted a case-control study using IPD cases identified at 24 Group for Enteric, Respiratory and Meningeal disease Surveillance-South Africa program sites (2010-2012). At least 4 controls were matched by age, HIV status and hospital to each case. Potential risk factors were evaluated using multivariable conditional logistic regression. In total, 486 age-eligible cases were enrolled. Factors associated with IPD in HIV-uninfected children (237 cases, 928 controls) included siblings <5 years [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16-2.46], underlying medical conditions (aOR = 1.99, CI 1.22-3.22), preceding upper respiratory tract infection (aOR = 1.79, CI 1.19-2.69), day-care attendance (aOR = 1.58, CI 1.01-2.47), perinatal HIV exposure (aOR = 1.62, CI 1.10-2.37), household car ownership (aOR = 0.45, CI 0.25-0.83) and ≥2 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine doses (aOR = 0.67, CI 0.46-0.99). Among HIV-infected children (124 cases, 394 controls), IPD-associated factors included malnutrition (aOR = 2.68, CI 1.40-5.14), upper respiratory tract infection (aOR = 3.49, CI 1.73-7.03), tuberculosis in the last 3 months (aOR = 5.12, CI 1.69-15.50) and current antiretroviral treatment (aOR = 0.13, CI 0.05-0.38). Previously identified factors related to poverty, poor health and intense exposure continue to be risk factors for IPD in children. Ensuring delivery of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and antiretroviral treatment are important for improving disease prevention.

The influence of early psychosocial intervention on the long-term clinical outcomes of people suffering from schizophrenia.

PubMed

Cechnicki, Andrzej; Bielańska, Anna

2017-02-26

To compare the treatment outcomes of DSM-IV-TR schizophrenia patients in either a Community Treatment Program or an Individual Treatment Program (CTP vs. ITP). The assessment was made after the first hospitalization, and then after three and twelve years. Participants were randomly assigned to CTP (experimental) and ITP (traditional) group, with 40 people in each group. 67 people (84%) participated in all three assessments. The socio-demographic and clinical indicators were the same for both groups. In the first three years only the CTP group participated in day-care treatment, patient and family psychoeducation and community treatment. Later, both groups received this treatment. The following tools were used: Anamnestic and Catamnestic Questionnaire, the GAF scale, the BPRS LA and Lehman's Quality of Life Interview. It was only after twelve years that there was a significant beneficial improvement in the mean GAF score in the CTP group (p = 0.036), which was comparable with the results obtained by Watt and Shepherd for the course of the illness in favorable remission cases (p = 0.038). The difference in the number of relapses was also significantly in favor of the CTP group only after 12 years (p = 0.045), as was the difference in the number of rehospitalizations (p = 0.013). The general severity of symptoms was found to be significantly lower for the CPT group after 3 (p = 0.008) and 12 years (p = 0.030), whereas it was significantly lower in the case of positive syndrome only after 3 years (p = 0.044). 1. A greater number of favorable differences were identified for the CTP group at the twelve-year point than at the conclusion of the experiment. 2. The three-year delay in introducing psycho-social treatment was associated with a poorer long-term outcome for the clinical course of schizophrenia.

Pain reactivity and plasma beta-endorphin in children and adolescents with autistic disorder.

PubMed

Tordjman, Sylvie; Anderson, George M; Botbol, Michel; Brailly-Tabard, Sylvie; Perez-Diaz, Fernando; Graignic, Rozenn; Carlier, Michèle; Schmit, Gérard; Rolland, Anne-Catherine; Bonnot, Olivier; Trabado, Séverine; Roubertoux, Pierre; Bronsard, Guillaume

2009-08-26

Reports of reduced pain sensitivity in autism have prompted opioid theories of autism and have practical care ramifications. Our objective was to examine behavioral and physiological pain responses, plasma beta-endorphin levels and their relationship in a large group of individuals with autism. The study was conducted on 73 children and adolescents with autism and 115 normal individuals matched for age, sex and pubertal stage. Behavioral pain reactivity of individuals with autism was assessed in three observational situations (parents at home, two caregivers at day-care, a nurse and child psychiatrist during blood drawing), and compared to controls during venepuncture. Plasma beta-endorphin concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. A high proportion of individuals with autism displayed absent or reduced behavioral pain reactivity at home (68.6%), at day-care (34.2%) and during venepuncture (55.6%). Despite their high rate of absent behavioral pain reactivity during venepuncture (41.3 vs. 8.7% of controls, P<0.0001), individuals with autism displayed a significantly increased heart rate in response to venepuncture (P<0.05). Moreover, this response (Delta heart rate) was significantly greater than for controls (mean+/-SEM; 6.4+/-2.5 vs. 1.3+/-0.8 beats/min, P<0.05). Plasma beta-endorphin levels were higher in the autistic group (P<0.001) and were positively associated with autism severity (P<0.001) and heart rate before or after venepuncture (P<0.05), but not with behavioral pain reactivity. The greater heart rate response to venepuncture and the elevated plasma beta-endorphin found in individuals with autism reflect enhanced physiological and biological stress responses that are dissociated from observable emotional and behavioral reactions. The results suggest strongly that prior reports of reduced pain sensitivity in autism are related to a different mode of pain expression rather than to an insensitivity or endogenous analgesia, and do not support opioid theories of autism. Clinical care practice and hypotheses regarding underlying mechanisms need to assume that children with autism are sensitive to pain.

Clinical outcomes in Mexican children with febrile acute upper respiratory tract infections: no impact of antibiotic therapy.

PubMed

Carranza-Martinez, Martha I; Newton-Sanchez, Oscar; Franco-Paredes, Carlos; Villaseñor-Sierra, Alberto

2010-09-01

To compare the clinical outcomes (duration of signs and symptoms) and the microbiology in Mexican children with non-complicated febrile upper respiratory tract infections (URI), with and without the use of antibiotics. We conducted a prospective cohort study from September 2006 to July 2007. The study population consisted of 880 children aged 6 months to 5 years 11 months, attending four community daycare centers run by the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) and three non-IMSS daycare centers. Children with a febrile URI were enrolled before receiving any antimicrobials and were followed up for two weeks. Duration of the fever, cough, runny nose, stuffy nose, irritability, loss of appetite, tiredness, and diarrhea, and isolation of Haemophilus influenzae,Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pyogenes were compared in those children who received antibiotic treatment and those who did not receive antibiotics. During the study period, a total of 145 out of 880 children were enrolled, and among those enrolled, 85/145 (59%) children received antibiotics. There was no significant difference in the duration of the signs and symptoms evaluated in the two groups. Although the proportions of S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and S. pyogenes isolated in children with and without antibiotics were comparable, those in whom we isolated S. pneumoniae had both a significantly longer episode of URI, as well as longer lasting diarrhea. Similarly, children receiving trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole treatment experienced significantly longer durations of fever and diarrhea. The mean duration of signs and symptoms and the microbiological isolates of children with febrile URI were comparable among children treated with or without antibiotics, with the exception of a longer duration of URI and diarrhea in those children with an S. pneumoniae isolate. Our findings suggest that in our population, most cases of febrile URI are caused by viral infections, and demonstrate that antibiotics should not be used routinely in children with non-complicated febrile URI. Copyright © 2010 International Society for Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Height and weight of urban preschool children in relation to their mothers' educational levels and employment status in Rasht City, northern Iran.

PubMed

Maddah, Mohsen; Mohtasham-Amiri, Zahra; Rashidi, Arash; Karandish, Majid

2007-01-01

This study determined the relationship between anthropometric status of 3-5-year-old urban children and theirs mothers' educational levels and employment status in Rasht City, northern Iran. A total of 1319 children (638 girls and 681 boys) at the ages of 3 and 6 years in all day-care centres in Rasht City were studied, using a cross-sectional design. Height and weight of the children were measured, and data on mothers' educational levels, employment status and duration of any breastfeeding were collected. Height for age, weight for age and weight for height of the children were compared with the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) reference population of the United States, and z-values 12 years of schooling, OR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.08-2.4) had higher relative risk for underweight than children of mothers with an intermediate level of education (5-12 years of schooling). Children of mothers with college education were also more at risk for development of stunting (OR = 1.41; 95% CI: 1.14-4.22). In addition, children of employed mothers were more likely to be underweight (OR = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.05-2.31), stunted (OR = 2.42; 95% CI: 1.21-6.35) and wasted (OR = 3.35; 95% CI: 1.21-5.58) than children of non-employed mothers. The relative risk for undernutrition was higher in the children of both less and highly educated mothers compared with children of mothers with an intermediate level of education. Mothers' employment was also negatively related to nutritional status of these children in day-care centres in Rasht City.

Children's exposure to brominated flame retardants in indoor environments - A review.

PubMed

Malliari, Eleftheria; Kalantzi, Olga-Ioanna

2017-11-01

The aim of this review is to present up-to-date research on children's exposure to brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in indoor environments. Large geographical variations were observed for all BFRs [polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA)], with the highest concentrations of PBDEs measured in North America (BDE-47) and Europe (BDE-209), where higher concentrations of PBDEs are present in dust from houses, daycare centers and primary schools. In Asia the highest PBDE concentrations were measured in China, near e-waste recycling areas. In the Middle East, Australia and Africa BFR levels were low in most indoor spaces. Asian countries also have the highest concentrations of TBBPA and HBCDD, followed by European countries. Fewer studies have been conducted measuring novel and emerging BFRs (NBFRs or EBFRs), of which decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE) has the highest concentration in indoor environments, especially in China. The vast majority of children's exposure studies have been conducted in houses, sampling either dust or air, and considerably fewer in schools, daycare centers, cars and public facilities, despite BFR levels being comparable to (or sometimes even higher than) house dust. Relatively fewer studies focused on children's tissues such as serum, and only two studied exposure via mouthing toys. Alternative noninvasive sampling matrices that may act as surrogates for exposure to BFRs such as handwipes and silicone wristbands have recently started to gain momentum, because of the ease of sampling, faster collection time and better correlations to serum than house dust. Feces sampling is another promising alternative to children's serum that warrants further research. While many studies have associated different indoor environment characteristics, there is a knowledge gap on the association between children's behaviour and activity patterns and their exposure to BFRs, as well as data on infant exposure to BFRs via baby products. Results from the studies showed that dust ingestion was the dominant exposure pathway for most studied BFRs compared to indoor air inhalation and dermal contact, especially for infants and toddlers who have higher exposures than older children. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Children’s Phthalate Intakes and Resultant Cumulative Exposures Estimated from Urine Compared with Estimates from Dust Ingestion, Inhalation and Dermal Absorption in Their Homes and Daycare Centers

PubMed Central

Bekö, Gabriel; Weschler, Charles J.; Langer, Sarka; Callesen, Michael; Toftum, Jørn; Clausen, Geo

2013-01-01

Total daily intakes of diethyl phthalate (DEP), di(n-butyl) phthalate (DnBP), di(isobutyl) phthalate (DiBP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBzP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were calculated from phthalate metabolite levels measured in the urine of 431 Danish children between 3 and 6 years of age. For each child the intake attributable to exposures in the indoor environment via dust ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption were estimated from the phthalate levels in the dust collected from the child’s home and daycare center. Based on the urine samples, DEHP had the highest total daily intake (median: 4.42 µg/d/kg-bw) and BBzP the lowest (median: 0.49 µg/d/kg-bw). For DEP, DnBP and DiBP, exposures to air and dust in the indoor environment accounted for approximately 100%, 15% and 50% of the total intake, respectively, with dermal absorption from the gas-phase being the major exposure pathway. More than 90% of the total intake of BBzP and DEHP came from sources other than indoor air and dust. Daily intake of DnBP and DiBP from all exposure pathways, based on levels of metabolites in urine samples, exceeded the Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) for 22 and 23 children, respectively. Indoor exposures resulted in an average daily DiBP intake that exceeded the TDI for 14 children. Using the concept of relative cumulative Tolerable Daily Intake (TDIcum), which is applicable for phthalates that have established TDIs based on the same health endpoint, we examined the cumulative total exposure to DnBP, DiBP and DEHP from all pathways; it exceeded the tolerable levels for 30% of the children. From the three indoor pathways alone, several children had a cumulative intake that exceeded TDIcum. Exposures to phthalates present in the air and dust indoors meaningfully contribute to a child’s total intake of certain phthalates. Such exposures, by themselves, may lead to intakes exceeding current limit values. PMID:23626820

Pain Reactivity and Plasma β-Endorphin in Children and Adolescents with Autistic Disorder

PubMed Central

Tordjman, Sylvie; Anderson, George M.; Botbol, Michel; Brailly-Tabard, Sylvie; Perez-Diaz, Fernando; Graignic, Rozenn; Carlier, Michèle; Schmit, Gérard; Rolland, Anne-Catherine; Bonnot, Olivier; Trabado, Séverine; Roubertoux, Pierre; Bronsard, Guillaume

2009-01-01

Background Reports of reduced pain sensitivity in autism have prompted opioid theories of autism and have practical care ramifications. Our objective was to examine behavioral and physiological pain responses, plasma β-endorphin levels and their relationship in a large group of individuals with autism. Methodology/Principal Findings The study was conducted on 73 children and adolescents with autism and 115 normal individuals matched for age, sex and pubertal stage. Behavioral pain reactivity of individuals with autism was assessed in three observational situations (parents at home, two caregivers at day-care, a nurse and child psychiatrist during blood drawing), and compared to controls during venepuncture. Plasma β-endorphin concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay. A high proportion of individuals with autism displayed absent or reduced behavioral pain reactivity at home (68.6%), at day-care (34.2%) and during venepuncture (55.6%). Despite their high rate of absent behavioral pain reactivity during venepuncture (41.3 vs. 8.7% of controls, P<0.0001), individuals with autism displayed a significantly increased heart rate in response to venepuncture (P<0.05). Moreover, this response (Δ heart rate) was significantly greater than for controls (mean±SEM; 6.4±2.5 vs. 1.3±0.8 beats/min, P<0.05). Plasma β-endorphin levels were higher in the autistic group (P<0.001) and were positively associated with autism severity (P<0.001) and heart rate before or after venepuncture (P<0.05), but not with behavioral pain reactivity. Conclusions/Significance The greater heart rate response to venepuncture and the elevated plasma β-endorphin found in individuals with autism reflect enhanced physiological and biological stress responses that are dissociated from observable emotional and behavioral reactions. The results suggest strongly that prior reports of reduced pain sensitivity in autism are related to a different mode of pain expression rather than to an insensitivity or endogenous analgesia, and do not support opioid theories of autism. Clinical care practice and hypotheses regarding underlying mechanisms need to assume that children with autism are sensitive to pain. PMID:19707566

Comparison between observed children's tooth brushing habits and those reported by mothers.

PubMed

Martins, Carolina C; Oliveira, Maria J; Pordeus, Isabela A; Paiva, Saul M

2011-09-03

Information bias can occur in epidemiological studies and compromise scientific outcomes, especially when evaluating information given by a patient regarding their own health. The oral habits of children reported by their mothers are commonly used to evaluate tooth brushing practices and to estimate fluoride intake by children. The aim of the present study was to compare observed tooth-brushing habits of young children using fluoridated toothpaste with those reported by mothers. A sample of 201 mothers and their children (aged 24-48 months) from Montes Claros, Brazil, took part in a cross-sectional study. At day-care centres, the mothers answered a self-administered questionnaire on their child's tooth-brushing habits. The structured questionnaire had six items with two to three possible answers. An appointment was then made with each mother/child pair at day-care centres. The participants were asked to demonstrate the tooth-brushing practice as usually performed at home. A trained examiner observed and documented the procedure. Observed tooth brushing and that reported by mothers were compared for overall agreement using Cohen's Kappa coefficient and the McNemar test. Cohen's Kappa values comparing mothers' reports and tooth brushing observed by the examiner ranged from poor-to-good (0.00-0.75). There were statistically significant differences between observed tooth brushing habits and those reported by mothers (p < 0.001). When observed by the examiner, the frequencies of dentifrice dispersed on all bristles (35.9%), children who brushed their teeth alone (33.8%) and those who did not rinse their mouths during brushing (42.0%) were higher than those reported by the mothers (12.1%, 18.9% and 6.5%, respectively; p < 0.001). In general, there was low agreement between observed tooth brushing and mothers' reports. Moreover, the different methods of estimation resulted in differences in the frequencies of tooth brushing habits, indicative of reporting bias. Data regarding children's tooth-brushing habits as reported by mothers should be considered with caution in epidemiological surveys on fluoridated dentifrice use and the risk of dental fluorosis.

Comparison between observed children's tooth brushing habits and those reported by mothers

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Information bias can occur in epidemiological studies and compromise scientific outcomes, especially when evaluating information given by a patient regarding their own health. The oral habits of children reported by their mothers are commonly used to evaluate tooth brushing practices and to estimate fluoride intake by children. The aim of the present study was to compare observed tooth-brushing habits of young children using fluoridated toothpaste with those reported by mothers. Methods A sample of 201 mothers and their children (aged 24-48 months) from Montes Claros, Brazil, took part in a cross-sectional study. At day-care centres, the mothers answered a self-administered questionnaire on their child's tooth-brushing habits. The structured questionnaire had six items with two to three possible answers. An appointment was then made with each mother/child pair at day-care centres. The participants were asked to demonstrate the tooth-brushing practice as usually performed at home. A trained examiner observed and documented the procedure. Observed tooth brushing and that reported by mothers were compared for overall agreement using Cohen's Kappa coefficient and the McNemar test. Results Cohen's Kappa values comparing mothers' reports and tooth brushing observed by the examiner ranged from poor-to-good (0.00-0.75). There were statistically significant differences between observed tooth brushing habits and those reported by mothers (p < 0.001). When observed by the examiner, the frequencies of dentifrice dispersed on all bristles (35.9%), children who brushed their teeth alone (33.8%) and those who did not rinse their mouths during brushing (42.0%) were higher than those reported by the mothers (12.1%, 18.9% and 6.5%, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusions In general, there was low agreement between observed tooth brushing and mothers' reports. Moreover, the different methods of estimation resulted in differences in the frequencies of tooth brushing habits, indicative of reporting bias. Data regarding children's tooth-brushing habits as reported by mothers should be considered with caution in epidemiological surveys on fluoridated dentifrice use and the risk of dental fluorosis. PMID:21888664

Reliability and validity assessment of administrative databases in measuring the quality of rectal cancer management.

PubMed

Corbellini, Carlo; Andreoni, Bruno; Ansaloni, Luca; Sgroi, Giovanni; Martinotti, Mario; Scandroglio, Ildo; Carzaniga, Pierluigi; Longoni, Mauro; Foschi, Diego; Dionigi, Paolo; Morandi, Eugenio; Agnello, Mauro

2018-01-01

Measurement and monitoring of the quality of care using a core set of quality measures are increasing in health service research. Although administrative databases include limited clinical data, they offer an attractive source for quality measurement. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to evaluate the completeness of different administrative data sources compared to a clinical survey in evaluating rectal cancer cases. Between May 2012 and November 2014, a clinical survey was done on 498 Lombardy patients who had rectal cancer and underwent surgical resection. These collected data were compared with the information extracted from administrative sources including Hospital Discharge Dataset, drug database, daycare activity data, fee-exemption database, and regional screening program database. The agreement evaluation was performed using a set of 12 quality indicators. Patient complexity was a difficult indicator to measure for lack of clinical data. Preoperative staging was another suboptimal indicator due to the frequent missing administrative registration of tests performed. The agreement between the 2 data sources regarding chemoradiotherapy treatments was high. Screening detection, minimally invasive techniques, length of stay, and unpreventable readmissions were detected as reliable quality indicators. Postoperative morbidity could be a useful indicator but its agreement was lower, as expected. Healthcare administrative databases are large and real-time collected repositories of data useful in measuring quality in a healthcare system. Our investigation reveals that the reliability of indicators varies between them. Ideally, a combination of data from both sources could be used in order to improve usefulness of less reliable indicators.

Night-waking trajectories and associated factors in French preschoolers from the EDEN birth-cohort.

PubMed

Reynaud, Eve; Forhan, Anne; Heude, Barbara; de Lauzon-Guillain, Blandine; Charles, Marie-Aline; Plancoulaine, Sabine

Night waking in preschoolers has been associated with adverse health outcomes in cross-sectional studies, but has rarely been analyzed in a longitudinal setting. Therefore, little is known about the evolution of night waking in early childhood. The objectives of the present study were: to identify night-waking trajectories in preschoolers, and to examine the risk factors associated with those trajectories. Analyses were based on the French birth-cohort study EDEN, which recruited 2002 pregnant women between 2003 and 2006. Data on a child's night waking at the ages of two, three, and five, six years, and potential confounders, were collected through parental self-reported questionnaires. Night-waking trajectories were computerized using group-based trajectory modeling on 1346 children. Two distinct developmental patterns were identified: the "2-5 rare night-waking" (77% of the children) and the "2-5 common night-waking" pattern. Logistic regressions were performed to identify the factors associated with the trajectories. Risk factors for belonging to the "2-5 common night-waking" trajectory were: exposure to passive smoking at home, daycare in a collective setting, watching television for extended periods, bottle feeding at night, high emotionality, and low shyness. This approach allowed identification of risk factors associated with night waking during a critical age window, and laid the groundwork for identifying children at higher risk of deleterious sleep patterns. Those risk factors were mainly living habits, which indicated that prevention and intervention programs could be highly beneficial in this population. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The influence of municipal characteristics on the use of informal home care and home care services by the elderly Flemish.

PubMed

Demaerschalk, Melanie F; Vanden Boer, Lut E; Bronselaer, Joost L; Molenberghs, Geert; Declercq, Anja G

2013-04-01

When explaining the use of care, the context of the care gains importance. This article focuses on the influence of the municipality on the lives of the elderly regarding the usage of different forms of care, whereas controlling for the effect of individual characteristics. Two databases on the individual characteristics of elderly Flemish people living at home were combined with a database on municipal characteristics. The effect of municipal characteristics was measured through multi-level logistic regression. A higher mean income per inhabitant and a lower number of inhabitants/100 km(2) have a positive effect on the use of informal home care. The use of home care services is positively influenced by a higher family care index and an increasing relative number of hours of domestic care provided in the municipality. Receiving care from a general practitioner, medical specialist, dentist, emergency department, community nurse, physiotherapist, home aid, day-care centre or hospital with overnight stay is not influenced by the municipality's characteristics. The use of public welfare services, meals-on-wheels programs or hospital outpatients' services, however, are affected by the municipality, but cannot be fully explained by the model. The municipality that an elderly person lives in has an impact on the amount and the types of care an elderly person receives. Persons with similar care needs and similar individual characteristics can receive very different care when they live in different municipalities. This is quite a challenging finding for researchers, as well as for care providers and policy makers.

Population-based pediatric reference intervals for general clinical chemistry analytes on the Abbott Architect ci8200 instrument.

PubMed

Ridefelt, Peter; Aldrimer, Mattias; Rödöö, Per-Olof; Niklasson, Frank; Jansson, Leif; Gustafsson, Jan; Hellberg, Dan

2012-02-29

Reference intervals are crucial decision-making tools aiding clinicians in differentiating between healthy and diseased populations. However, for children such values often are lacking or incomplete. Blood samples were obtained from 692 healthy children, aged 6 months to 18 years, recruited in daycare centers and schools. Twelve common general clinical chemistry analytes were measured on the Abbott Architect ci8200 platform; sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium, albumin-adjusted calcium, phosphate, magnesium, creatinine (Jaffe and enzymatic), cystatin C, urea and uric acid. Age- and gender specific pediatric reference intervals were defined by calculating the 2.5th and 97.5th percentiles. The data generated is primarily applicable to a Caucasian population when using the Abbott Architect platform, but could be used by any laboratory if validated for the local patient population.

[Childhood diseases with exanthema].

PubMed

Opstelten, Wim; Eekhof, Just A H; Knuistingh Neven, Arie

2011-01-01

- Due to high vaccination coverage, measles and rubella (German measles) are now rarely seen in the Netherlands, which makes recognition of these diseases difficult. - Measles can also occur in people who have been immunized, as a result of vaccination failure. - Swift recognition of measles and rubella is necessary in order to manage them adequately and to prevent spreading of the disease. - Measles, rubella, and erythema infectiosum ('fifth disease') may result in complications during pregnancy. - Measles, rubella, scarlet fever, erythema infectiosum, and roseola ('sixth disease') can be difficult to differentiate. - In the Netherlands, diagnosis of a patient with measles or rubella, or of more than 1 patient with erythema infectiosum within one institution, must be reported to the local health authority within 1 working day. - Exclusion from school or a day-care facility is not required for any if the diseases discussed.

Preschoolers' vocabulary acquisition in Chile: the roles of socioeconomic status and quality of home environment.

PubMed

Lohndorf, Regina T; Vermeer, Harriet J; Cárcamo, Rodrigo A; Mesman, Judi

2018-05-01

Preschoolers' vocabulary acquisition sets the stage for later reading ability and school achievement. This study examined the role of socioeconomic status (SES) and the quality of the home environment of seventy-seven Chilean majority and Mapuche minority families from low and lower-middle-class backgrounds in explaining individual differences in vocabulary acquisition of their three-and-a-half-year-old children. Additionally, we investigated whether the relation between SES and receptive and expressive vocabulary was mediated by the quality of the home environment as the Family Investment Model suggests. The quality of the home environment significantly predicted receptive and expressive vocabulary above and beyond ethnicity, SES, parental caregiver status, and quantity of daycare. Furthermore, the quality of the home environment mediated the relation between SES and expressive and receptive vocabulary acquisition.

Infants' development of object permanence: a refined methodology and new evidence of Piaget's hypothesized ordinality.

PubMed

Kramer, J A; Hill, K T; Cohen, L B

1975-03-01

To investigate Piaget's theory of object concept development, a series of 6 tasks was administered in a combined longitudinal/cross-sectional design incorporating a number of methodological controls. The tasks spanned the entire sensorimotor period and included single versus sequential displacements combined with visible or invisible hidings. 36 infants from 5 to 32 months of age at initial testing were drawn equally from day-care and home settings. All infants received the 6 tasks during each of 3 testing sessions over a 6-month period. Clear evidence was obtained for task ordinality as proposed by Piaget, with ordinality coefficients ranging from .71 to .82 for the 3 testing sessions. Performance changes across the 3 sessions were also ordinal in 80% of the cases. Expected age, task, and session effects and accompanying interactions were also obtained.

Preschool-age problem behavior and teacher-child conflict in school: direct and moderation effects by preschool organization.

PubMed

Skalická, Věra; Belsky, Jay; Stenseng, Frode; Wichstrøm, Lars

2015-01-01

The hypothesis was tested that the new open-group Norwegian day-care centers would more than traditionally organized centers negatively affect (a) current and (b) future teacher-child relationships, and (c) the developmental legacy of preschool problem behavior. The focus was on eight hundred and fifty 4-year-olds from 153 centers who were followed up in first grade. Results of this natural quasi-experiment revealed that children from open-group centers (a) experienced less teacher-child closeness in preschool and (b) more teacher-child conflict in first grade, and (c) that high levels of preschool problem behavior forecast especially high levels of future teacher-child conflict, but only for children from open-group centers. Results highlight the importance of spatial and social organization of day care and their translational implications. © 2015 The Authors. Child Development © 2015 Society for Research in Child Development, Inc.

New Brazilian developmental curves and reference values for the Alberta infant motor scale.

PubMed

Saccani, Raquel; Valentini, Nadia Cristina; Pereira, Keila R G

2016-11-01

The lack of Brazilian norms restrains the use of the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) to precisely categorize infant motor development and discriminate infants with motor difficulties from typically developing infants. This study investigated reference values for the AIMS for Brazilian infants. Descriptive, cross-sectional study of infants from birth-to-18 months old. Trained professionals assessed infants in daycares, homes, and governmental health centers. Results showed increases in raw scores across age groups from 0- to 15-months of age. The stability of raw scores was observed after 16 months of age. Brazilian infants demonstrated lower scores in specific ages compared to the Canadian sample. Canadian and Brazilian children showed differences in motor performance scores across age and norms were established for Brazilian infants. This study highlights the importance to establish reference values for AIMS of infants across cultures. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Relations between maternal food practices and diet of preschool age Quebec children].

PubMed

Dulude, Geneviève; Marquis, Marie

2013-01-01

The goal of this study is to examine the relationships between mothers' food practices and the diets of their preschool children. Daycare facilities on the Island of Montréal recruited 122 mothers to complete a self-administered questionnaire that addressed the impact of parents' food practices on their children's diets, particularly the frequency of intake and food preferences. Correlations were observed between three maternal food practices--restrictions, pressure to eat and food reward--and children's eating behaviour. These three practices correlated with less desirable eating behaviours in children. This study suggests that in Quebec, mothers' food practices have a direct impact on the food practices of their children. Mothers must therefore be informed about the counterproductive nature of some food practices and given tools to develop healthier food strategies by focusing on children's appetites and emphasizing the pleasure of eating.

Effectiveness of state-level vaccination mandates: evidence from the varicella vaccine.

PubMed

Abrevaya, Jason; Mulligan, Karen

2011-09-01

This paper utilizes longitudinal data on varicella (chickenpox) immunizations in order to estimate the causal effects of state-level school-entry and daycare-entry immunization mandates within the United States. We find significant causal effects of mandates upon vaccination rates among preschool children aged 19-35 months; these effects appear in the year of mandate adoption, peak two years after adoption, and show a minimal difference from the aggregate trend about six years after adoption. For a mandate enacted in 2000, the model and estimates imply that roughly 20% of the short-run increase in state-level immunization rates was caused by the mandate introduction. We find no evidence of differential effects for different socioeconomic groups. Combined with previous cost-benefit analyses of the varicella vaccine, the estimates suggest that state-level mandates have been effective from an economic standpoint. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Physical Activity Promotion in the Preschool Years: A Critical Period to Intervene

PubMed Central

Goldfield, Gary S.; Harvey, Alysha; Grattan, Kimberly; Adamo, Kristi B.

2012-01-01

The primary aim of this paper is to provide a rationale for the necessity of intervening with a physical activity intervention in the preschool years and why the daycare environment is amenable to such intervention. We also review the prevalence of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and obesity in the preschool population and the impact that these lifestyle behaviours and conditions have on the health of preschool aged children, as secondary objectives. Moreover we discuss implications for intervention and research using a “lessons learned” model based on our research team’s experience of conducting a randomized controlled trial aimed at increasing physical activity, reducing sedentary behaviour and improving motor skill development and body composition in preschoolers. Lastly, we make conclusions based on the literature and highlight issues and directions that need to be addressed in future research in order to maximize health promotion and chronic disease prevention in the pediatric population. PMID:22690196

Living with the animals: animal or robotic companions for the elderly in smart homes?

PubMed

Preuß, Dirk; Legal, Friederike

2017-06-01

Although the use of pet robots in senior living facilities and day-care centres, particularly for individuals suffering from dementia, has been intensively researched, the question of introducing pet robots into domestic settings has been relatively neglected. Ambient assisted living (AAL) offers many interface opportunities for integrating motorised companions. There are diverse medical reasons, as well as arguments from animal ethics, that support the use of pet robots in contrast to living with live animals. However, as this paper makes clear, we should not lose sight of the option of living with animals at home for as long as possible and in conformity with the welfare of the animal assisted by AAL technology. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

[Nutritional status in preschoolers attending a public day-care center in Valencia, Venezuela].

PubMed

Real, Sara Irene del; Jaeger, Armando Sánchez; Barón, María Adela; Díaz, Nayka; Solano, Liseti; Velásquez, Emma; López, Jesús

2007-09-01

With the purpose of evaluating nutritional status in a group of preschoolers attending a public day care center in Valencia, Venezuela (2002), a research was made for social stratus, anthropometric variables; weight, height and arm circumference, hemoglobin, seric retinol, presence of parasitosis and food consumption, as well as the mother's educational level. The program SPSS 11.0 and the t Student, ANOVA Post Hoc from Bonferroni and Fisher (p < 0.05) were used. A predominance of the female sex was presented (52%). According to the social stratus, 23.3% was located in the middleclass, and 76.8% on some level of poverty. 60% of the middleclass mothers had finished their high school education, while only 9.8% of the mothers in poverty had reached that level. According to the Z values (H/A, W/H and AC/H), high percentages under -1.00 were observed (27.3%, 25.6% and 24.5%, respectively). The W/H and AC/H of children of mothers studying in a university presented discrepancies when compared with children of mothers with a primary educational level. A 25.9% of anemia was presented, and there were differences between anemic and non-anemic groups for H/A and AC/H. Protozoaries were observed in 61.0%, helmintos in 16.9% and both in 22.1%. There was a 2.6 times higher risk of presenting nutritional deficiency for AC/H in the group found with parasites. An adequate consumption of energy and iron was found, with an excessive consumption of proteins and vitamin A. It is concluded that there exists a nutritional risk evaluated through hematologic parameters, the presence of parasitosis and social stratus.

Parental concern about vaccine safety in Canadian children partially immunized at age 2: a multivariable model including system level factors.

PubMed

MacDonald, Shannon E; Schopflocher, Donald P; Vaudry, Wendy

2014-01-01

Children who begin but do not fully complete the recommended series of childhood vaccines by 2 y of age are a much larger group than those who receive no vaccines. While parents who refuse all vaccines typically express concern about vaccine safety, it is critical to determine what influences parents of 'partially' immunized children. This case-control study examined whether parental concern about vaccine safety was responsible for partial immunization, and whether other personal or system-level factors played an important role. A random sample of parents of partially and completely immunized 2 y old children were selected from a Canadian regional immunization registry and completed a postal survey assessing various personal and system-level factors. Unadjusted odds ratios (OR) and adjusted ORs (aOR) were calculated with logistic regression. While vaccine safety concern was associated with partial immunization (OR 7.338, 95% CI 4.138-13.012), other variables were more strongly associated and reduced the strength of the relationship between concern and partial immunization in multivariable analysis (aOR 2.829, 95% CI 1.151-6.957). Other important factors included perceived disease susceptibility and severity (aOR 4.629, 95% CI 2.017-10.625), residential mobility (aOR 3.908, 95% CI 2.075-7.358), daycare use (aOR 0.310, 95% CI 0.144-0.671), number of needles administered at each visit (aOR 7.734, 95% CI 2.598-23.025) and access to a regular physician (aOR 0.219, 95% CI 0.057-0.846). While concern about vaccine safety may be addressed through educational strategies, this study suggests that additional program and policy-level strategies may positively impact immunization uptake.

[Efficacy of the strategy to improve the quality indicators of Diabetes Mellitus 2 Care Process in Advanced Diabetes Centre Macarena].

PubMed

Vélez, Juan Manuel; García, Rosa; Pina, Enrique; Morales, Cristóbal; Escalera, Carmen; Ortega, Antonio; Poyatos, Blas; Carrasco, Dolores; Prieto, Jesús; Ángeles Eslava, M; Antonio Corrales, J; Barón, María O; Llano, Mercedes; Ruiz, Francisco; Sánchez, Romualdo; Victorino Pino, Manuel; Luisa Redondo, M; Castellanos, Antonio; Mayoral, Eduardo

2018-02-21

The assessment of the Diabetes Mellitus 2 Care Process (PAI-DM2) through the assessment tool for the chronic illness' care models (IEMAC-Diabetes) allows the design of health interventions for the improvement of medical care. Analysing the quality of healthcare provided to DM2 patients. Quasiexperimental study before and after intervention with a not randomised control group. Health care district of primary care Sevilla. 12 groups of ascribed patients, 5 Primary Care Healthcenter, chosen in a discretionary way. Physicians and nurses from the 12 intervention groups took part in a training program, including an external rotation in the Diabetes Daycare Hospital. Number of included patients, glycated hemoglobin, feet exploration (FE), and ocular fundus (OF). 1,475 DM-2 patients were analysed. The proportion of included patients per group was 8.5%, 45.5% were women. At the beginning of the study, the rate of patients with HbA1c<7% were 38.9% in 2013 against 47.7% in 2014 and 40.2% in 2016; 33% of the patients had an OF in 2013 against 41.77% in 2014; 51.6% of patients had an EF against 54.7% in 2014. After the intervention, statistically significant differences were reached in HbA1c (p=0.01) and retinography requested (p=0.01). IEMAC-Diabetes allows spotting improvement areas in the PAI-DM2. The absence of statistically significant differences may be the result of contamination in the sample and/or Hawthorne effect. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of early childhood caries and associated risk factors in preschool children of urban Bangalore, India: A cross-sectional study

PubMed Central

Prakash, Prashanth; Subramaniam, Priya; Durgesh, B.H.; Konde, Sapna

2012-01-01

Objectives: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a devastating form of dental decay with multi-factorial origin. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to investigate the prevalence and related risk factors of ECC in preschool children of urban Bangalore (India). Methods: A random sample of 1,500 children aged between 8 and 48 months were selected from various parts of urban Bangalore. The status of dental caries was recorded according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Information regarding oral hygiene practices, feeding habits, socio-economic status, birth weight, and educational status of the mother was obtained through a structured questionnaire given to mothers of preschool children. The data was subjected to statistical analysis using the Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 12. Results: The prevalence of ECC in preschool children was 27.5%, while the mean deft was 0.854. ECC increased significantly with age. Children whose mothers had no schooling and those who belonged to low socioeconomic group showed higher caries prevalence. A significant increase in caries prevalence was found in children accustomed to the practice of on-demand breast feeding and bottle feeding at night. Caries also increased significantly when snacks were consumed between meals. However, increased frequency of tooth-brushing, parental supervision, use of a baby toothbrush, and fluoridated dentifrice significantly decreased caries prevalence. Conclusion: ECC is a serious public health problem in this population and measures to increase awareness should be undertaken. The target candidates for oral health promotion programs should include mothers, general dentists, pediatricians, nurses, primary care health workers, care-takers at day-care centers and gynecologists. PMID:22509116

From the desert: transcultural aspects of cancer nursing care in Israel.

PubMed

Delbar, V

1999-02-01

Quality of life perceptions, the meaning of cancer perception, and the meaning of illness are culture bound. Culture includes learned and shared ways of interpreting the world and interacting in society, and thereby provides all individuals with ideas about what is good or bad, desirable or undesirable, valued or devalued in life. Israel is an immigration country, and its citizens came from all over the world. It is also a meeting zone between Middle Eastern traditional culture and Western modern medicine. Cancer patients and a substantial proportion of doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals are from different ethnic backgrounds. In hospitals, clinics, and other places where health professionals live, work, or relax, there is a network of cultural factors that plays an important role in the well-being of patients. Cultural effects can considerably complicate the assessment of how an individual is likely to react to various aspects of the hospital environment, medical condition, treatment, staff, fellow patients, and so on. Ideal management includes the foresight to forestall problems that may arise and to create favorable psychosomatic effects that help patients to respond positively to treatment. To illustrate the cultural component in nursing care, four cancer patients from totally different cultural backgrounds are described: a bedouin, an Israeli-born Jew whose parents immigrated from Tunisia, and two immigrant patients, one from the United States and the other from Ethiopia. All four patients were treated by chemotherapy, radiation, or both in an oncology day-care unit at the Soroka Medical Center in Beer-Sheva. Also, a special education program for immigrant nurses is presented, as well as a new immigrant nurse from the former Soviet Union.

The effect of dental overbite on eustachian tube dysfunction in Iranian children.

PubMed

Azadani, Peyman Nejatbakhsh; Jafarimehr, Elnaz; Shokatbakhsh, Abdorahman; Pourhoseingholi, Mohamad Amin; Ghougeghi, Aman

2007-02-01

To investigate the association between deep dental overbite and eustachian tube dysfunction. It was designed as a case-control study. Among hospitalized patients in otolaryngology department at Taleghani Hospital in Tehran, Iran, from January to December 2005, 132 patients between the ages of 2 and 6 years were recruited. Dental overbite, overjet, and occlusal relationships were measured by one observer. Eustachian tube dysfunction was defined as having ventilation tubes with an abnormal tympanometry. In addition, demographic information, medical and social histories were prospectively recorded. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression model were used. In a multivariate model, children with deep bites were 10.6 times more likely to have eustachian tube dysfunction than those without deep bites (P<0.05). Other independent risk factors for eustachian tube dysfunction identified in this model were family history of otitis media, daycare exposure, and non-breast-feeding. Children with deep dental overbites are at a significantly increased risk for developing eustachian tube dysfunction.

Food waste volume and origin: Case studies in the Finnish food service sector.

PubMed

Silvennoinen, Kirsi; Heikkilä, Lotta; Katajajuuri, Juha-Matti; Reinikainen, Anu

2015-12-01

We carried out a project to map the volume and composition of food waste in the Finnish food service sector. The amount, type and origin of avoidable food waste were investigated in 51 food service outlets, including schools, day-care centres, workplace canteens, petrol stations, restaurants and diners. Food service outlet personnel kept diaries and weighed the food produced and wasted during a one-week or one-day period. For weighing and sorting, the food waste was divided into two categories: originally edible (OE) food waste was separated from originally inedible (OIE) waste, such as vegetable peelings, bones and coffee grounds. In addition, food waste (OE) was divided into three categories in accordance with its origins: kitchen waste, service waste and customer leftovers. According to the results, about 20% of all food handled and prepared in the sector was wasted. The findings also suggest that the main drivers of wasted food are buffet services and overproduction. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Inter-Occupational Cooperation Levels in a Day Care Service and Its Subjects - From the Viewpoint of Multiple Occupations].

PubMed

Ugai, Chizuru; Hata, Kiyomi

2016-12-01

We clarified the role of cooperation of nursing personnel who work in day care services, to precede our examination of inter-occupational cooperation. The study results revealed that there were four cooperation levels. Subjects for the cooperation included:"difficulty in sharing information,"difficulty in understanding the whole picture,"difficulty in finding directions, "and"difficulty in dealing with emergency cases."The purpose of this study was to clarify the inter-occupational cooperation levels in a day care service and its subjects. We also conducted semi-structured interviews with 13 persons of differing occupations(other than nurses), and who worked in day-care services in A prefecture. As a result, it was revealed that there were three inter-occupational cooperation levels and its subjects included:"difficulty in sharing information" (which was answered the same as the nurses),"difficulty in sharing goals"(which were different among individual occupations), "lack of consistency in care,"necessity of learning because of insufficient knowledge,"and"hesitation to notify."

[Observational study of outpatient unit duration of stay depending on the route of administration (intravenous vs subcutaneous) for a targeted therapy].

PubMed

Despiau, Frédéric; Zagala, Yann; Delord, Jean-Pierre; Montastruc, Marion; Lacaze, Jean-Louis; Ferrand, Régis; Bombail, Marie

2017-10-01

New routes of administration available for some targeted therapies, especially subcutaneous injections, have an impact not only on the patients' daycare experience, but also on the unit's organization. This observational study conducted on 48 voluntary patients at the Institut universitaire du cancer Toulouse-Oncopole shows that the mean duration of the outpatient unit stay is diminished by one hour when a subcutaneous injection is used instead of an intravenous route. This duration decrease is mainly caused by an 82% average reduction in treatment duration. However, the waiting times before and after the treatment itself are not significantly impacted. Organizational methods related to the treatment prescription and preparation remain indeed the same. Anticipated prescription is not noticeably impacted either. This reduction of the duration of stay will truly be obtained if the whole unit's organization is adapted. Copyright © 2017 Société Française du Cancer. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A retrospective study of nursing diagnoses, outcomes, and interventions for patients with mental disorders.

PubMed

Escalada-Hernández, Paula; Muñoz-Hermoso, Paula; González-Fraile, Eduardo; Santos, Borja; González-Vargas, José Alonso; Feria-Raposo, Isabel; Girón-García, José Luis; García-Manso, Manuel

2015-05-01

The aim of this study is to describe the most frequent NANDA-I nursing diagnoses, NOC outcomes, and NIC interventions used in nursing care plans in relation to psychiatric diagnosis. Although numerous studies have described the most prevalent NANDA-I, NIC and NOC labels in association with medical diagnosis in different specialties, only few connect these with psychiatric diagnoses. This multicentric cross-sectional study was developed in Spain. Data were collected retrospectively from the electronic records of 690 psychiatric or psychogeriatric patients in long and medium-term units and, psychogeriatric day-care centres. The most common nursing diagnoses, interventions and outcomes were identified for patients with schizophrenia, organic mental disorders, mental retardation, affective disorders, disorders of adult personality and behavior, mental and behavioural disorders due to psychoactive substance use and neurotic, stress-related and somatoform disorders. Results suggest that NANDA-I, NIC and NOC labels combined with psychiatric diagnosis offer a complete description of the patients' actual condition. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Parent training for young Norwegian children with ODD and CD problems: predictors and mediators of treatment outcome.

PubMed

Fossum, Sturla; Mørch, Willy-Tore; Handegård, Bjørn H; Drugli, May B; Larsson, Bo

2009-04-01

Participants were 121 children, aged 4-8 years referred for conduct problems, and their mothers. A parent training intervention was implemented in two outpatient clinics in Norway. Treatment responders were defined as children scoring below a cut-off on the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory, a score below an optimal cut-off for children in day-care and school as reported by teachers, in addition to a 30% reduction or greater in observed negative parenting. Self-reported parenting practices were explored as potential mediators. The results of logistic regression analyses showed that high levels of maternal stress, clinical levels of ADHD, and being a girl predicted a poorer outcome in conduct problems at home, while pretreatment clinical levels of ADHD predicted a poorer outcome as perceived by the teachers. Harsh and inconsistent parental disciplining emerged as significant partial mediators of changes in conduct problems, highlighting the importance of altering parenting practices to modify young children's conduct problems.

For the betterment of the family care for the aged with dementia.

PubMed

Matsuda, N

2001-06-01

To investigate the feeling of burden and needs in care, a questionnaire was made which consists of "feeling of burden in care" (family Maslash Burnout Inventory for care or M.B.I. in short) and "family needs" (own making). It was mailed to ninety-nine caregiver of the family with the aged with dementia who cared them at home utilizing day-care service at a special nursing home for the aged, and attended family class once a month. 67 valid answers were obtained. The average age of caregiver was 57.0 years; seventy-six percent of them were female. Their difficulties were own health condition and lack of a cooperator for care. The main component analysis of family M.B.I. for care showed that fatigue was the main factor, indicating that it is very important to provide the families with mental support. Many caregivers thought that their care were useful and worthy; however score of "emotional exhaustion" were higher and score of "self attainment" were lower.

The psychometric properties of the Chinese version-reintegration to normal living index (C-RNLI) for identifying participation restriction among community-dwelling frail older people.

PubMed

Liu, Justina Yat-Wa; Ma, Ka Wai

2017-01-31

The Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) was developed to measure reintegration to normal living after major traumas/illnesses. Its psychometric properties remain unknown when used to measure participation restriction under the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (WHO-ICF) framework. This study examines the psychometric properties of the Chinese version-RNLI to measure WHO-ICF participation restriction among community-dwelling pre-frail and frail older people. A cross-sectional study was conducted in community and day-care centres in Hong Kong between May 2015 and January 2016. Through face-to-face interviews, information was collected on the participants' demographic background, medical history, frailty status, depressive mood, functional performance in daily activities, and participation restriction. The internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct and convergent validity of the C-RNLI were assessed. Two hundred and ninety-nine pre-frail or frail community-dwelling older people with a mean age of 79.53 were recruited. A confirmatory factor analysis showed that the C-RNLI has a two-factor structure comprised of "participation in physical activities" and "participation in social events". The test-retest coefficient was 0.71. The Cronbach's alpha of the total C-RNLI score, and those of the factors "participation in physical activities" and "participation in social events" were 0.88, 0.82 and 0.84, respectively. Pre-frail older people had significantly higher scores for the factors "participation in physical activities" (z = -5.05, <0.01) and "participation in social events" (z = -6.04, p < 0.01) than frail older people. Older people from community centres had significantly higher scores for the factors "participation in physical activities" (z = -4.48, <0.01) and "participation in social events" (z = -4.03, p < 0.01) than older people from day-care centres. The factors "participation in physical activities" and "participation in social events" of the C-RNLI were significantly convergent with depressive mood (r s  = -0.25 and r s  = -0.39, respectively) and functional performance in daily activities (r s  = 0.28 and r s  = 0.45, respectively). The C-RNLI is a two-factor structured scale with acceptable level of reliability and validity to measure WHO-ICF participation restriction among community-dwelling pre-frail and frail older people.

Social value of a nutritional counselling and support program for breastfeeding in urban poor settings, Nairobi.

PubMed

Goudet, Sophie; Griffiths, Paula L; Wainaina, Caroline W; Macharia, Teresia N; Wekesah, Frederick M; Wanjohi, Milka; Muriuki, Peter; Kimani-Murage, Elizabeth

2018-04-02

In Kenya, poor maternal nutrition, suboptimal infant and young child feeding practices and high levels of malnutrition have been shown among the urban poor. An intervention aimed at promoting optimal maternal infant and young child nutrition (MIYCN) practices in urban poor settings in Nairobi, Kenya was implemented. The intervention involved home-based counselling of pregnant and breastfeeding women and mothers of young children by community health volunteers (CHVs) on optimal MIYCN practices. This study assesses the social impact of the intervention using a Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach. Data collection was based on SROI methods and used a mixed methods approach (focus group discussions, key informant interviews, in-depth interviews, quantitative stakeholder surveys, and revealed preference approach for outcomes using value games). The SROI analysis revealed that the MIYCN intervention was assessed to be highly effective and created social value, particularly for mothers and their children. Positive changes that participants experienced included mothers being more confident in child care and children and mothers being healthier. Overall, the intervention had a negative social impact on daycare centers and on health care providers, by putting too much pressure on them to provide care without providing extra support. The study calculated that, after accounting for discounting factors, the input ($USD 419,716) generated $USD 8 million of social value at the end of the project. The net present value created by the project was estimated at $USD 29.5 million. $USD 1 invested in the project was estimated to bring USD$ 71 (sensitivity analysis: USD$ 34-136) of social value for the stakeholders. The MIYCN intervention showed an important social impact in which mothers and children benefited the most. The intervention resulted in better perceived health of mothers and children and increased confidence of mothers to provide care for their children, while it resulted in negative impacts for day care center owners and health care providers.

[Varicella vaccine effectiveness in schoolchildren in outbreaks in a semi-urban area].

PubMed

Romera-Guirado, F J; Molina-Salas, Y; Pérez-Martín, J J; Ruzafa-Martínez, M

2016-01-01

To estimate the effectiveness of the varicella vaccine in school outbreaks during the academic year 2009-2010. Retrospective cohort study in public day-care centers and/or schools in an area in the region of Murcia. Spain. The participants were all children of 1 to 12 years who were in the same classroom where there was an outbreak of varicella. The main measurements were the sociodemographic, clinical and vaccination data, as well as variables related to varicella disease obtained through a questionnaire self-completed by parents, and from the computerized regional immunization registry (VACUSAN). A total of 51 varicella outbreaks were detected, with a median of 3 cases per outbreak at both educational levels. The overall vaccination coverage was 10.7% (95% CI 8.63 to 13.18), always being higher in Spanish schoolchildren versus foreign (OR: 21.21, 95% CI: 2.92 to 153.92, P<.001). Discrepancies were found between the vaccine questionnaire data and vaccination program (kappa=0.50, 95% CI: 0.43 to 0.58, P<.001). According to VACUSAN, the overall attack rate was 59.7 (95% CI: 55.82 to 63.43) in unvaccinated and 6.5 (95% CI: 2.54 to 15.45) in vaccinated children. An overall effectiveness of 89.1% (95% CI: 74.55 to 95.35) and 100% was obtained for 1 and 2 doses of vaccine, respectively. There is a high effectiveness of varicella vaccine, emphasizing that the administration of two doses of vaccine produces an adequate and optimal protection against varicella disease. A discrepancy was found between the information provided by parents and official records. Finally, there was a lower vaccination coverage in the immigrant community. Copyright © 2014 Asociación Española de Pediatría. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

[Plastic surgery in the setting of a public hospital day care unit].

PubMed

Faga, A; Valdatta, L; Magnani, S; Thione, A

2000-09-01

The authors describe the advantages and disadvantages of plastic surgery performed in a day-care public hospital unit. A retrospective study was made of the day-surgery activities over 16 months (1998-1999) as part of a centralized system. Data were compared to day-surgery activities undertaken in 1997 using a non-centralized system. The study was based in the Macchi Foundation Hospital in Varese. A total of 179 patients were treated from all age group whose clinical, intellectual and social characteristics enabled them to be treated using a day-hospital regime. The pathologies treated can be classified into six groups: benign skin pathologies, malignant skin pathologies, scar pathologies, hand disorders, burns and others. All operations were performed as planned under general, local or regional anesthesia with the help of an anesthetist. The centralized system has a number of advantages of a social and technical kind; there are few disadvantages, mainly consisting in the impossibility of using this approach for emergency surgery and its overall rigidity. This form of surgery provides a service that stands out for its quality, organisational efficiency and low cost.

Laparoscopic revolution in bariatric surgery

PubMed Central

Sundbom, Magnus

2014-01-01

The history of bariatric surgery is investigational. Dedicated surgeons have continuously sought for an ideal procedure to relieve morbidly obese patients from their burden of comorbid conditions, reduced life expectancy and low quality of life. The ideal procedure must have low complication risk, both in short- and long term, as well as minimal impact on daily life. The revolution of laparoscopic techniques in bariatric surgery is described in this summary. Advances in minimal invasive techniques have contributed to reduced operative time, length of stay, and complications. The development in bariatric surgery has been exceptional, resulting in a dramatic increase of the number of procedures performed world wide during the last decades. Although, a complex bariatric procedure can be performed with operative mortality no greater than cholecystectomy, specific procedure-related complications and other drawbacks must be taken into account. The evolution of laparoscopy will be the legacy of the 21st century and at present, day-care surgery and further reduction of the operative trauma is in focus. The impressive effects on comorbid conditions have prompted the adoption of minimal invasive bariatric procedures into the field of metabolic surgery. PMID:25386062

Distribution of radon concentrations in child-care facilities in South Korea.

PubMed

Lee, Cheol-Min; Kwon, Myung-Hee; Kang, Dae-Ryong; Park, Tae-Hyun; Park, Si-Hyun; Kwak, Jung-Eun

2017-02-01

This study was conducted to provide fundamental data on the distribution of radon concentrations in child day-care facilities in South Korea and to help establish radon mitigation strategies. For this study, 230 child-care centers were randomly chosen from all child-care centers nationwide, and alpha track detectors were used to examine cumulative radon exposure concentrations from January to May 2015. The mean radon concentration measured in Korean child-care centers is approximately 52 Bq m -3 , about one-third of the upper limit of 148 Bq m -3 , which is recommended by South Korea's Indoor Air Quality Control in Public Use Facilities, etc. Act and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Furthermore, this concentration is about 50% lower than 102 Bq m -3 , which is the measured concentration of radon in houses nationwide from December 2013 to February 2014. Our results indicate that the amount of ventilation, as a major determining factor for indoor radon concentrations, is strongly correlated with the fluctuation of indoor radon concentrations in Korean child-care centers. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hospital ambulatory medicine: A leading strategy for Internal Medicine in Europe.

PubMed

Corbella, Xavier; Barreto, Vasco; Bassetti, Stefano; Bivol, Monica; Castellino, Pietro; de Kruijf, Evert-Jan; Dentali, Francesco; Durusu-Tanriöver, Mine; Fierbinţeanu-Braticevici, Carmen; Hanslik, Thomas; Hojs, Radovan; Kiňová, Soňa; Lazebnik, Leonid; Livčāne, Evija; Raspe, Matthias; Campos, Luis

2018-04-13

Addressing the current collision course between growing healthcare demands, rising costs and limited resources is an extremely complex challenge for most healthcare systems worldwide. Given the consensus that this critical reality is unsustainable from staff, consumer, and financial perspectives, our aim was to describe the official position and approach of the Working Group on Professional Issues and Quality of Care of the European Federation of Internal Medicine (EFIM), for encouraging internists to lead a thorough reengineering of hospital operational procedures by the implementation of innovative hospital ambulatory care strategies. Among these, we include outpatient and ambulatory care strategies, quick diagnostic units, hospital-at-home, observation units and daycare hospitals. Moving from traditional 'bed-based' inpatient care to hospital ambulatory medicine may optimize patient flow, relieve pressure on hospital bed availability by avoiding hospital admissions and shortening unnecessary hospital stays, reduce hospital-acquired complications, increase the capacity of hospitals with minor structural investments, increase efficiency, and offer patients a broader, more appropriate and more satisfactory spectrum of delivery options. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Inclusive indoor play: an approach to developing inclusive design guidelines.

PubMed

Mullick, Abir

2013-01-01

The purpose of the Inclusive Indoor Play study was to learn about indoor play and develop design guidelines to inform design of inclusive playthings. Children with and without disabilities, parents, teachers, therapists, daycare owners and designers. Focus group interviews; Children's drawings; and Indoor play simulation. The major findings suggest that: 1) play should encourage a child's creativity and develop imagination, 2) inclusive play concept must be employed to design playthings for children with wide age group, 3) inclusive designs improve usability, broaden market appeal, and increase user base, and 4) customizable playthings help children with and without disabilities personalize play situations. Three play principles provide new directions to designing inclusive playthings: 1) offer many play opportunities, 2) provide many modes of play, and 3) include many levels of play challenges. Inclusive Design Guidelines were developed from the findings of three studies: Focus group interviews, Children's drawings, and Play simulation. The guidelines served as useful tools for inclusive design and they were employed to design of six indoor playthings. The playthings were instrumental in promoting social inclusion and they met the criteria of the Inclusive Indoor Play project.

Oral dyskinesia: a clinical overview.

PubMed

Blanchet, Pierre J; Rompré, Pierre H; Lavigne, Gilles J; Lamarche, Claude

2005-01-01

Dentists may be the first health care professionals to recognize unusual and abnormal oral movements collectively termed oral dyskinesias. The aims of this clinical overview are to raise the dental community's awareness about this important and complex topic and describe the clinical features and management of the main entities. A MEDLINE search of the different entities reported in the English and French literature was conducted. The main findings of a field study on oral dyskinesia were also reviewed. Involuntary movement disorders are often drug related. In other cases, excessive oral movements may occur at any age in relation to various neuropsychiatric conditions. Orofacial dystonia apparently triggered by dental procedures has also been reported. Edentulousness has been associated with oral stereotypes. In a survey of 352 edentulous elderly individuals attending daycare centers, only 7% displayed visible oral sterotypes, and ill-fitting dentures were suggested as a possible triggering factor for the majority. A multidisciplinary evaluation is desirable in the care of individuals with oral dyskinesia and in the selection of those who may benefit from a prosthodontic approach. A good knowledge of potentially offending drugs may allow avoidance of unnecessary procedures.

[How do Prevention Projects Reach their Target Groups? Results of a Survey with Prevention Projects].

PubMed

Brand, T; Böttcher, S; Jahn, I

2015-12-01

 The aim of this study was to assess methods used to access target groups in prevention projects funded within the prevention research framework by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research.  A survey with prevention projects was conducted. Access strategies, communication channels, incentives, programme reach, and successful practical recruitment strategies were explored.  38 out of 60 projects took part in the survey. Most projects accessed their target group within structured settings (e. g., child day-care centers, schools, workplaces). Multiple communication channels and incentives were used, with written information and monetary incentives being used most frequently. Only few projects were able to report their programme reach adequately; programme reach was highest for programmes accessing the target groups in structured settings. The respondents viewed active recruitment via personal communication with the target group and key persons in the settings as the most successful strategy.  The paper provides an overview on recruitment strategies used in current preven-tion projects. More systematic research on programme reach is necessary. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Assessment and intervention for dysphagia in infants and children: beyond the neonatal intensive care unit.

PubMed

Bell, Hannah R; Alper, Beth Sheckman

2007-08-01

Over the last 10 years, the assessment and intervention for feeding and swallowing problems in infants and children have attracted increased attention on a national and international level. Increases in the population of children with dysphagia are due, in large part, to advances in medical and surgical management of at-risk term infants, improved medical support for viability of younger and smaller preterm infants, and increases in the number of children on the autism spectrum. Because of legislative initiatives, settings in which children are seen for assessment and intervention have shifted, with services provided more often in the natural environments of homes, daycares, preschools, and schools, as well as in hospitals and outpatient clinics in the United States. Assessment of infants and children with dysphagia continues to include clinical and instrumental evaluations with clinical assessment including a specific focus on the feeding environment. Speech-language pathologists are increasingly assuming consultative roles to support the needs of children in all settings. Areas for further research in the era of evidence-based practice include efficacy of oral exercises and other intervention strategies.

Relationship between home care service use and changes in the care needs level of Japanese elderly.

PubMed

Kato, Gohei; Tamiya, Nanako; Kashiwagi, Masayo; Sato, Mikiya; Takahashi, Hideto

2009-12-21

With the introduction of long-term care insurance (LTCI) in Japan, more home care services are available for the community-dwelling elderly. To deliver effective home care services, it is important to know the effects of service use. In this study, as the first step to determine this, we sought to describe different home service use in the sustained/improved group and deteriorated group in their care needs levels, and to report the relationship between the use of home care services and changes in care needs levels. The participants included 624 of a total of 1,474 users of LTCI services in one city in Japan. Home care service users were stratified into a 'lower care needs level subgroup' and a 'higher care needs level subgroup' based on the baseline care needs level. Simple statistical comparison and multiple logistic regression analyses in which the change in care needs level was set as a dependent variable were performed. Gender, age, and baseline care needs level were designated as control variables. Home based services were treated as independent variables. In this study, home care services consisted of home help, home bathing services, a visiting nurse, home rehabilitation, nursing home daycare, health daycare, loan of medical devices, respite stay in a nursing home, respite stay in a health care facility, respite stay in a sanatorium-type medical care facility, and medical management by a physician. In the lower care needs level subgroup, age (OR = 1.04, CI, 1.01-1.08), use of respite stay in a nursing home (OR = 2.55; CI, 1.43-4.56), and the number of types of long-term care services (OR = 1.33; CI, 1.02-1.74) used during an 11 month period were significantly related to a deterioration of the user's care needs level. In the higher care needs level subgroup, use of medical management by a physician (OR = 6.99; CI, 1.42-41.25) was significantly related to a deterioration of the user's care needs level. There were no home based services significantly related to sustaining or improving the user's care needs level. There were different home service use in two groups (the sustained/improved group and the deteriorated group). Respite stay in a nursing home service use and more types of service use were related to experiencing a deterioration of care needs level in lower care needs level community-dwelling elderly persons in Japan. Further, medical management by a physician service was related to experiencing a deterioration of care needs level in higher care needs level community-dwelling elderly persons.

Vaccination of day-care center attendees reduces carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae among their younger siblings.

PubMed

Givon-Lavi, Noga; Fraser, Drora; Dagan, Ron

2003-06-01

We conducted a study to determine whether administration of a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to toddlers attending day-care centers (DCCs) could prevent acquisition of Streptococcus pneumoniae of the vaccine serotypes (VT) by their younger siblings. In a double blind study, 262 DCC attendees ages 12 to 35 months were randomized to receive a 9-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PnCRM9; n = 132), or a control vaccine (meningococcus C vaccine; n = 130). It was planned to follow the groups for 2 years with monthly nasopharyngeal pneumococcal cultures during the first follow-up year and every 2 months during the second year. Forty-six younger siblings of the above described children, age <18 months (23 siblings of the PnCRM9 recipients and 23 of the controls), were also enrolled, and nasopharyngeal cultures were obtained monthly until the children reached the age of 18 months or started to attend DCC, if before the age of 18 months. Pneumococcal isolates were serotyped and tested for antibiotic susceptibility. Of the 3748 cultures obtained from the DCC attendees, 2450 (65%) were positive for S. pneumoniae. Of 306 cultures obtained from the younger siblings, 151 (49%) were positive. Among the PnCRM9 recipients, cultures were significantly less frequently positive for the VT S. pneumoniae than among the controls (13% vs. 21%, respectively; P < 0.001). The same pattern was seen in the younger siblings of PnCRM9 recipients vs. the siblings of controls (21% vs. 34%, respectively; P = 0.017). The reverse trend was seen for non-VT strains in both the DCC attendees (44% vs. 34%, respectively; P < 0.001) and their younger siblings (19% vs. 13%, respectively; P = 0.15). There was a significant decrease in the carriage rate of antibiotic-resistant S. pneumoniae in both the PnCRM9 recipients and their younger siblings. The relative risks (and 95% confidence intervals) to carry S. pneumoniae penicillin-nonsusceptible, resistant to > or =1, > or =2 and > or =3 antibiotic categories among younger siblings of PnCRM9 recipients vs. siblings of controls were 0.47 (0.31 to 0.70), 0.49 (0.33 to 0.71), 0.46 (0.30 to 0.73) and 0.49 (0.21 to 1.17), respectively. When acquired, VT and antibiotic-resistant S. pneumoniae were carried for a significantly shorter period of time among siblings of PnCRM9 recipients than in siblings of controls. The marked effect of PnCRM9 administration to DCC attendees on carriage of VT and antibiotic-resistant S. pneumoniae among their younger household close contacts demonstrates a herd effect of the vaccine.

Is watching television a realistic leisure option for people with dementia?

PubMed

Gústafsdóttir, Margrét

2015-01-01

Watching television is a common leisure activity, not least among older people. However, watching television may become difficult when it is disturbed by symptoms of dementia. A total of 284 questionnaires were handed out to relatives of people with dementia in Iceland, in the Memory Clinic of the University Hospital and in specialized units for people with dementia (6 day-care units and 8 units within nursing homes). The response rate was just below 58%. Watching television was shown to play a less important role in the course of the daily life of people with dementia as soon as the symptoms of the disease became evident, and it increasingly became less relevant. So, this previous leisure activity left an ever-growing void of time to fill. However, watching television may provide an important social context for contact and togetherness during the progress of the disease, as watching television with someone close to them was important for the individuals with dementia. It is not a viable option for people with dementia to watch television on their own, but they may enjoy watching television while sharing this activity with a person close to them. This may even provide quality time.

Staphylococcus aureus infections: transmission within households and the community

PubMed Central

Knox, Justin; Uhlemann, Anne-Catrin; Lowy, Franklin D.

2015-01-01

Staphylococcus aureus , both methicillin susceptible and resistant, are now major community-based pathogens worldwide. The basis for this is multifactorial and includes the emergence of epidemic clones with enhanced virulence, antibiotic resistance, colonization potential, or transmissibility. Household reservoirs of these unique strains are crucial to their success as community-based pathogens. Staphylococci become resident in households, either as colonizers or environmental contaminants, increasing the risk for recurrent infections. Interactions of household members with others in different households or at community sites including schools and daycare facilities play a critical role in the ability of these strains to become endemic. Colonization density at these sites appears to play an important role in facilitating transmission. The integration of research tools including whole genome sequencing, mathematical modeling and social network analysis have provided additional insight into the transmission dynamics of these strains. Thus far, interventions designed to reduce recurrent infections among household members have had limited success, likely due to the multiplicity of potential sources for recolonization. The development of better strategies to reduce the number of household-based infections will depend on greater insight into the different factors that contribute to the success of these uniquely successful epidemic clones of S. aureus. PMID:25864883

How did the Supreme Court ruling on DOMA affect astronomers?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rigby, Jane R.; The AAS Working Group on LGBTIQ Equality

2014-01-01

In June 2013, the United States Supreme Court ruled that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) was unconstitutional. Section 3 had barred the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages. The decision in United States v. Windsor, made headlines around the world, and particularly affected astronomers, since astronomers in the US are more likely than the general population to be foreign nationals, to have a foreign-born spouse, or to work for the federal government. In this poster, we highlight some of the real-world ways that the Windsor case has affected US astronomers and our profession. Bi-national couples can now apply for green cards granting permanent residency. Scientists who work for the federal government, including NASA and the NSF, can now obtain health insurance for a same-sex spouse. From taxes to death benefits, health insurance to daycare, immigration to ethics laws, the end of S3 of DOMA has had profoundly improved the lives of US scientists who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). Here we, highlight several real-world examples of how DOMA's demise has improved the lives and careers of US astronomer.

Agent Based Modeling: Fine-Scale Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Pertussis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, D. A.

2017-10-01

In epidemiology, spatial and temporal variables are used to compute vaccination efficacy and effectiveness. The chosen resolution and scale of a spatial or spatio-temporal analysis will affect the results. When calculating vaccination efficacy, for example, a simple environment that offers various ideal outcomes is often modeled using coarse scale data aggregated on an annual basis. In contrast to the inadequacy of this aggregated method, this research uses agent based modeling of fine-scale neighborhood data centered around the interactions of infants in daycare and their families to demonstrate an accurate reflection of vaccination capabilities. Despite being able to prevent major symptoms, recent studies suggest that acellular Pertussis does not prevent the colonization and transmission of Bordetella Pertussis bacteria. After vaccination, a treated individual becomes a potential asymptomatic carrier of the Pertussis bacteria, rather than an immune individual. Agent based modeling enables the measurable depiction of asymptomatic carriers that are otherwise unaccounted for when calculating vaccination efficacy and effectiveness. Using empirical data from a Florida Pertussis outbreak case study, the results of this model demonstrate that asymptomatic carriers bias the calculated vaccination efficacy and reveal a need for reconsidering current methods that are widely used for calculating vaccination efficacy and effectiveness.

A longitudinal analysis of the effect of nonmedical exemption law and vaccine uptake on vaccine-targeted disease rates.

PubMed

Yang, Y Tony; Debold, Vicky

2014-02-01

We assessed how nonmedical exemption (NME) laws and annual uptake of vaccines required for school or daycare entry affect annual incidence rates for 5 vaccine-targeted diseases: pertussis, measles, mumps, Haemophilus influenzae type B, and hepatitis B. We employed longitudinal mixed-effects models to examine 2001-2008 vaccine-targeted disease data obtained from the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System. Key explanatory variables were state-level vaccine-specific uptake rates from the National Immunization Survey and a state NME law restrictiveness level. NME law restrictiveness and vaccine uptake were not associated with disease incidence rate for hepatitis B, Haemophilus influenzae type B, measles, or mumps. Pertussis incidence rate, however, was negatively associated with NME law restrictiveness (b = -0.20; P = .03) and diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine uptake (b = -0.01; P = .05). State NME laws and vaccine uptake rates did not appear to influence lower-incidence diseases but may influence reported disease rates for higher-incidence diseases. If all states increased their NME law restrictiveness by 1 level and diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus uptake by 1%, national annual pertussis cases could decrease by 1.14% (171 cases) and 0.04% (5 cases), respectively.

Benefits of group cognitive remediation therapy in anorexia nervosa: case series.

PubMed

Tchanturia, Kate; Larsson, Emma; Brown, Amy

2016-03-01

Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) is a treatment targeting cognitive difficulties in psychiatric disorders. CRT has been used with patients with severe anorexia nervosa (AN) in individual and group formats. Research of group CRT in AN is limited. Evaluation of a series of CRT groups delivered in inpatient and intensive daycare services was performed. Participants' self-reported cognitive flexibility and central coherence, as well as motivation to change were assessed pre- and post-group. Additionally, patients' evaluative feedback was collected after completion of the group. There was a significant improvement in the patients' self-reported cognitive flexibility and bigger picture thinking, as well as in their self-efficacy to change. The feedback questionnaires highlighted that patients found the sessions useful and reported confidence in using some of the skills and strategies they learnt in the group. In line with evidence from small-scale reports, this larger scale case series study indicates that group CRT leads to increased flexibility and bigger picture thinking, as well as improved confidence in the ability to change for participants. CRT in a group format seems to be a practical and helpful intervention for patients with AN in intensive treatment programmes.

Holistic Management of Schizophrenia Symptoms Using Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Treatment.

PubMed

Ganguly, Pronab; Soliman, Abdrabo; Moustafa, Ahmed A

2018-01-01

Individuals with schizophrenia lead a poor quality of life, due to poor medical attention, homelessness, unemployment, financial constraints, lack of education, and poor social skills. Thus, a review of factors associated with the holistic management of schizophrenia is of paramount importance. The objective of this review is to improve the quality of life of individuals with schizophrenia, by addressing the factors related to the needs of the patients and present them in a unified manner. Although medications play a role, other factors that lead to a successful holistic management of schizophrenia include addressing the following: financial management, independent community living, independent living skill, relationship, friendship, entertainment, regular exercise for weight gained due to medication administration, co-morbid health issues, and day-care programmes for independent living. This review discusses the relationship between different symptoms and problems individuals with schizophrenia face (e.g., homelessness and unemployment), and how these can be managed using pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Thus, the target of this review is the carers of individuals with schizophrenia, public health managers, counselors, case workers, psychiatrists, and clinical psychologists aiming to enhance the quality of life of individuals with schizophrenia.

Accelerating language acquisition.

PubMed

Fowler, W; Ogston, K; Roberts-Fiati, G; Swenson, A

1993-01-01

How much can the development of language and other skills be accelerated in the general population? High correlations between early verbal and mental competencies and parent and teacher language socialization practices suggest enormous potential for widespread improvement. Here we report follow-up research in progress in studies of late adolescent children from diverse ethnic and educational backgrounds who participated in a language enrichment programme during infancy in the home or day-care. In 39 of 44 home-stimulated children located to date (nearly all from college-educated families) 62-93% were: in gifted or advanced programmes, obtaining high grades, avid readers and skilled in writing (over half read before school and wrote creative material independently) and generally highly skilled in verbal, mathematical and other academic domains. They also excelled socially and in sports, and showed intellectual independence. Additional subjects and data (on competence, later experiences and Scholastic Aptitude Test [SAT] scores) are currently being collected. Preliminary data analyses suggest that although early language enrichment can in the short term easily increase competence in all groups well beyond norms generated by current socialization practices, long-term outcomes are a complex function of developmental dynamics between the early, complex, foundation of high skills and motivation for learning, and the interaction with facilitative parental resources.

Observations of the relationship between noise exposure and preschool teacher voice usage in day-care center environments.

PubMed

Lindstrom, Fredric; Waye, Kerstin Persson; Södersten, Maria; McAllister, Anita; Ternström, Sten

2011-03-01

Although the relationship between noise exposure and vocal behavior (the Lombard effect) is well established, actual vocal behavior in the workplace is still relatively unexamined. The first purpose of this study was to investigate correlations between noise level and both voice level and voice average fundamental frequency (F₀) for a population of preschool teachers in their normal workplace. The second purpose was to study the vocal behavior of each teacher to investigate whether individual vocal behaviors or certain patterns could be identified. Voice and noise data were obtained for female preschool teachers (n=13) in their workplace, using wearable measurement equipment. Correlations between noise level and voice level, and between voice level and F₀, were calculated for each participant and ranged from 0.07 to 0.87 for voice level and from 0.11 to 0.78 for F₀. The large spread of the correlation coefficients indicates that the teachers react individually to the noise exposure. For example, some teachers increase their voice-to-noise level ratio when the noise is reduced, whereas others do not. Copyright © 2011 The Voice Foundation. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Work environment as predictor of long-term sickness absence: linkage of self-reported DWECS data with the DREAM register.

PubMed

Burr, Hermann; Pedersen, Jacob; Hansen, Jørgen Vinsløv

2011-07-01

The present overview discusses ten papers dealing with four research topics using self-reported work environment in the Danish Work Environment Cohort Study (DWECS) linked with register data on long-term sickness absence (LTSA) in the Danish Register for Evaluation of Marginalisation (DREAM). Research relied on self-reported data among 3000-5000 employees linked with registered LTSA data. Analyses were performed with Cox regression models. Risk groups: Kindergarten teachers and daycare workers were at high risk for LTSA. Mainly physical exposures but also psychosocial factors were risk factors for LTSA. Attributable fractions: A quarter of LTSA spells could be attributed to the physical work environment. Most of the association between social class and LTSA was explained by physical work environment and smoking. Mechanisms: Depressive symptoms, severe pain in hands, and low back and pain intensity were risk factors for LTSA. Only in work sites with traditional leadership did health problems predict LTSA. The linking of DWECS with DREAM has made it possible to estimate the importance of work environment factors for LTSA. Future research should deal with possible risk factors such as health problems and organisational factors.

Child development in primary care: a surveillance proposal.

PubMed

Coelho, Renato; Ferreira, José Paulo; Sukiennik, Ricardo; Halpern, Ricardo

2016-01-01

To evaluate a child development surveillance tool proposal to be used in primary care, with simultaneous use of the Denver II scale. This was a cross-sectional study of 282 infants aged up to 36 months, enrolled in a public daycare in a countryside community in Rio Grande do Sul/Brazil. Child development was assessed using the surveillance tool and the Denver II scale. The prevalence of probable developmental delay was 53%; most of these cases were in the alert group and 24% had normal development, but with risk factors. At the Denver scale, the prevalence of suspected developmental delay was 32%. When risk factors and sociodemographic variables were assessed, no significant difference was observed. The evaluation of this surveillance tool resulted in objective and comparable data, which were adequate for a screening test. It is easily applicable as a screening tool, even though it was originally designed as a surveillance tool. The inclusion of risk factors to the scoring system is an innovation that allows for the identification of children with suspected delay in addition to developmental milestones, although the definition of parameters and choice of indicators should be thoroughly studied. Copyright © 2016 Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Human exposure to unconventional natural gas development: A public health demonstration of periodic high exposure to chemical mixtures in ambient air.

PubMed

Brown, David R; Lewis, Celia; Weinberger, Beth I

2015-01-01

Directional drilling and hydraulic fracturing of shale gas and oil bring industrial activity into close proximity to residences, schools, daycare centers and places where people spend their time. Multiple gas production sources can be sited near residences. Health care providers evaluating patient health need to know the chemicals present, the emissions from different sites and the intensity and frequency of the exposures. This research describes a hypothetical case study designed to provide a basic model that demonstrates the direct effect of weather on exposure patterns of particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). Because emissions from unconventional natural gas development (UNGD) sites are variable, a short term exposure profile is proposed that determines 6-hour assessments of emissions estimates, a time scale needed to assist physicians in the evaluation of individual exposures. The hypothetical case is based on observed conditions in shale gas development in Washington County, Pennsylvania, and on estimated emissions from facilities during gas development and production. An air exposure screening model was applied to determine the ambient concentration of VOCs and PM2.5 at different 6-hour periods of the day and night. Hourly wind speed, wind direction and cloud cover data from Pittsburgh International Airport were used to calculate the expected exposures. Fourteen months of daily observations were modeled. Higher than yearly average source terms were used to predict health impacts at periods when emissions are high. The frequency and intensity of exposures to PM2.5 and VOCs at a residence surrounded by three UNGD facilities was determined. The findings show that peak PM2.5 and VOC exposures occurred 83 times over the course of 14 months of well development. Among the stages of well development, the drilling, flaring and finishing, and gas production stages produced higher intensity exposures than the hydraulic fracturing stage. Over one year, compressor station emissions created 118 peak exposure levels and a gas processing plant produced 99 peak exposures over one year. The screening model identified the periods during the day and the specific weather conditions when the highest potential exposures would occur. The periodicity of occurrence of extreme exposures is similar to the episodic nature of the health complaints reported in Washington County and in the literature. This study demonstrates the need to determine the aggregate quantitative impact on health when multiple facilities are placed near residences, schools, daycare centers and other locations where people are present. It shows that understanding the influence of air stability and wind direction is essential to exposure assessment at the residential level. The model can be applied to other emissions and similar sites. Profiles such as this will assist health providers in understanding the frequency and intensity of the human exposures when diagnosing and treating patients living near unconventional natural gas development.

Xylitol for preventing acute otitis media in children up to 12 years of age.

PubMed

Azarpazhooh, Amir; Lawrence, Herenia P; Shah, Prakeshkumar S

2016-08-03

Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common bacterial infection among young children in the United States. There are limitations and concerns over its treatment with antibiotics and surgery and so effective preventative measures are attractive. A potential preventative measure is xylitol, a natural sugar substitute that reduces the risk of dental decay. Xylitol can reduce the adherence of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S pneumoniae) and Haemophilus influenzae (H influenzae) to nasopharyngeal cells in vitro. This is an update of a review first published in 2011. To assess the efficacy and safety of xylitol to prevent AOM in children aged up to 12 years. We searched CENTRAL (to Issue 12, 2015), MEDLINE (1950 to January 2016), Embase (1974 to January 2016), CINAHL (1981 to January 2016), LILACS (1982 to January 2016), Web of Science (2011 to January 2016) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (2000 to January 2016). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs of children aged 12 years or younger where xylitol supplementation was compared with placebo or no treatment to prevent AOM. Two review authors independently selected trials from search results, assessed and rated study quality and extracted relevant data for inclusion in the review. We contacted trial authors to request missing data. We noted data on any adverse events of xylitol. We extracted data on relevant outcomes and estimated the effect size by calculating risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI). We identified five clinical trials that involved 3405 children for inclusion. For this 2016 update, we identified one new trial for inclusion. This trial was systematically reviewed but due to several sources of heterogeneity, was not included in the meta-analysis. The remaining four trials were of adequate methodological quality. In three RCTs that involved a total of 1826 healthy Finnish children attending daycare, there is moderate quality evidence that xylitol (in any form) can reduce the risk of AOM from 30% to around 22% compared with the control group (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.88). Among the reasons for dropouts, there were no significant differences in abdominal discomfort and rash between the xylitol and the control groups. Xylitol was not effective in reducing AOM among healthy children during a respiratory infection (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.53; moderate quality evidence) or among otitis-prone healthy children (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.67 to 1.21; low-quality evidence). There is moderate quality evidence showing that the prophylactic administration of xylitol among healthy children attending daycare centres can reduce the occurrence of AOM. There is inconclusive evidence with regard to the efficacy of xylitol in preventing AOM among children with respiratory infection, or among otitis-prone children. The meta-analysis was limited because data came from a small number of studies, and most were from the same research group.

Systematic review of parenting interventions in European countries aiming to reduce social inequalities in children's health and development.

PubMed

Morrison, Joana; Pikhart, Hynek; Ruiz, Milagros; Goldblatt, Peter

2014-10-06

Early child development influences many aspects of wellbeing, health, competence in literacy and numeracy, criminality, and social and economic participation throughout the life course. Children from disadvantaged groups have less possibilities of achieving full development. By providing a positive start for all children across the social gradient, improved developmental outcomes will be seen during later childhood and throughout their lives. The objective of this systematic review was to identify interventions during early childhood in countries from the World Health Organisation European Region in 1999-2013 which reduced inequalities in children's health and development. A systematic review was carried out adhering to the PRISMA guidelines. The review examined universal, targeted and proportionate universalism interventions, programs and services using an electronic search strategy in PubMed and the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences [IBSS] databases. A further search was performed in the grey literature. Interventions were included only if they were aimed at children or their parents and had been evaluated. We identified 23 interventions in total: 6 in the PubMed data base, 5 in IBSS and 12 in grey literature. All but 1 intervention-delivered in Sweden-were carried out in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. These aimed to improve parenting abilities, however, some had additional components such as: day-care provision, improving housing conditions and speech or psychological therapies. Programmes offering intensive support, information and home visits using a psycho-educational approach and aimed at developing parent's and children's skills showed more favourable outcomes. These were parenting behaviours, overall children's health and higher level of fine motor skills and cognitive functioning. Child injuries and abuse were also reduced. Two interventions were universally proportionate and all others were aimed at a specific target population. Interventions with better outcomes and a higher level of evidence combined workshops and educational programmes for both parents and children beginning during early pregnancy and included home visits by specialised staff. Further evaluation and publication of early years interventions should be carried out also within a wider range of countries than just the UK and Ireland.

Quantifying the influence of temperature on hand, foot and mouth disease incidence in Wuhan, Central China.

PubMed

Huang, Jiao; Chen, Shi; Wu, Yang; Tong, Yeqing; Wang, Lei; Zhu, Min; Hu, Shuhua; Guan, Xuhua; Wei, Sheng

2018-01-31

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a substantial burden throughout Asia, but the effects of temperature pattern on HFMD risk are inconsistent. To quantify the effect of temperature on HFMD incidence, Wuhan was chosen as the study site because of its high temperature variability and high HFMD incidence. Daily series of HFMD counts and meteorological variables during 2010-2015 were obtained. Distributed lag non-linear models were applied to characterize the temperature-HFMD relationship and to assess its variability across different ages, genders, and types of child care. Totally, 80,219 patients of 0-5 years experienced HFMD in 2010-2015 in Wuhan. The cumulative relative risk of HFMD increased linearly with temperature over 7 days (lag0-7), while it presented as an approximately inverted V-shape over 14 days (lag0-14). The cumulative relative risk at lag0-14 peaked at 26.4 °C with value of 2.78 (95%CI: 2.08-3.72) compared with the 5 th percentile temperature (1.7 °C). Subgroup analyses revealed that children attended daycare were more vulnerable to temperature variation than those cared for at home. This study suggests that public health actions should take into consideration local weather conditions and demographic characteristics.

Evaluation of daily time spent in transportation and traffic-influenced microenvironments by urban Canadians.

PubMed

Matz, Carlyn J; Stieb, David M; Egyed, Marika; Brion, Orly; Johnson, Markey

2018-01-01

Exposure to traffic and traffic-related air pollution is associated with a wide array of health effects. Time spent in a vehicle, in active transportation, along roadsides, and in close proximity to traffic can substantially contribute to daily exposure to air pollutants. For this study, we evaluated daily time spent in transportation and traffic-influenced microenvironments by urban Canadians using the Canadian Human Activity Pattern Survey (CHAPS) 2 results. Approximately 4-7% of daily time was spent in on- or near-road locations, mainly associated with being in a vehicle and smaller contributions from active transportation. Indoor microenvironments can be impacted by traffic emissions, especially when located near major roadways. Over 60% of the target population reported living within one block of a roadway with moderate to heavy traffic, which was variable with income level and city, and confirmed based on elevated NO 2 exposure estimated using land use regression. Furthermore, over 55% of the target population ≤ 18 years reported attending a school or daycare in close proximity to moderate to heavy traffic, and little variation was observed based on income or city. The results underline the importance of traffic emissions as a major source of exposure in Canadian urban centers, given the time spent in traffic-influenced microenvironments.

Changes in nasopharyngeal carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis among healthy children attending a day-care centre before and after official financial support for the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and H. influenzae type b vaccine in Japan.

PubMed

Oikawa, Junko; Ishiwada, Naruhiko; Takahashi, Yoshiko; Hishiki, Haruka; Nagasawa, Koo; Takahashi, Sachiko; Watanabe, Masaharu; Chang, Bin; Kohno, Yoichi

2014-02-01

The 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine reduce nasopharyngeal carriage of vaccine-type bacteria, which may in turn influence the presence of other nasopharyngeal bacterial pathogens. To investigate this possibility, nasopharyngeal carriage of potential pathogens was examined before and after official financial support was provided to offer the PCV7 and Hib vaccines in healthy children attending a day care centre in Japan during 2011-2012. Despite a virtual disappearance of PCV7 serotypes over time, the overall pneumococcal carriage rate remained unchanged. Although others have reported an increase in PCV13 serotypes following PCV7 vaccination, only non-PCV13 serotypes were observed to have increased in this study. The majority of H. influenzae isolates were non-typeable and Hib was not found. Our data identified an unexpected pattern of pneumococcal serotype replacement following PCV7. Continuous monitoring of pneumococcal carriage is important for decisions regarding the future of national vaccination policy in Japan. Copyright © 2013 Japanese Society of Chemotherapy and the Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Probiotics: their role in the treatment and prevention of disease.

PubMed

Doron, Shira; Gorbach, Sherwood L

2006-04-01

A probiotic is a "live microbial food ingredients that, when ingested in sufficient quantities, exerts health benefits on the consumer". Probiotics exert their benefits through several mechanisms; they prevent colonization, cellular adhesion and invasion by pathogenic organisms, they have direct antimicrobial activity and they modulate the host immune response. The strongest evidence for the clinical effectiveness of probiotics has been in their use for the prevention of symptoms of lactose intolerance, treatment of acute diarrhea, attenuation of antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal side effects and the prevention and treatment of allergy manifestations. More research needs to be carried out to clarify conflicting findings on the use of probiotics for prevention of travelers' diarrhea, infections in children in daycare and dental caries, and elimination of nasal colonization with potentially pathogenic bacteria. Promising ongoing research is being conducted on the use of probiotics for the treatment of Clostridium difficile colitis, treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection, treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and prevention of relapse, treatment of irritable bowel syndrome, treatment of intestinal inflammation in cystic fibrosis patients, and prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants. Finally, areas of future research include the use of probiotics for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, prevention of cancer and the treatment of graft-versus-host disease in bone marrow transplant recipients.

Heart rate and treatment effect in children with disruptive behavior disorders.

PubMed

Stadler, Christina; Grasmann, Dörte; Fegert, Jörg M; Holtmann, Martin; Poustka, Fritz; Schmeck, Klaus

2008-09-01

To examine whether children with disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs; hyperkinetic conduct disorder, conduct disorder, hyperkinetic disorder) characterized by low heart rate profit less from an intensive cognitive behavioral intervention aimed at reducing impulsive, oppositional and aggressive behavior problems. Basal heart rate was studied in twenty-three children (aged 7-12 years) with DBD at the beginning of intervention comprising an intensive day-care treatment and parent training. The disruptive behavior of the child was assessed before treatment and after termination (12 weeks later). Therapy responders and non-responders were compared in regard to heart rate and other risk factors (cognitive functioning and socio-economic status). Statistical analyses yielded evidence for a significant reduction of disruptive problem behaviors (aggression, delinquency) that is more prominent in DBD children with high heart rate scores compared to patients with low heart rate scores. Heart rate was significantly lower in children who did not profit from therapy. A logistic regression analysis revealed that heart rate is a significant predictor for therapy success whereas other risk factors had no impact on therapy success. Further studies investigating biological and psychosocial predictors of treatment effectiveness are necessary. In addition, it might be helpful to consider different subtypes of aggressive behavior for selecting the best possible treatment options.

On religious and secular exemptions: A case study of childhood vaccination waivers

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

This paper analyses exemptions to general law through the prism of vaccine waivers in the United States. All US states legally require the vaccination of children prior to school or daycare entry; however, this obligation is accompanied with a system of medical, religious, and/or philosophical exemptions. Nonmedical exemptions became subject of discussion after the 2015 Disneyland measles outbreak in California, which unequivocally brought to light what had been brewing below the surface for a while: a slow but steady decline in vaccination rates in Western societies, resulting in the reoccurrence of measles outbreaks. This can be traced back to an increasing public questioning of vaccines by a growing anti-vaccination movement. In reaction to the outbreak and the public outrage it generated, several states proposed—and some already passed—bills to eliminate nonmedical exemptions. I analyze two questions. First, can legal exemptions from mandatory childhood vaccination schemes for parents who are opposed to vaccination (still) be justified? Second, should legal exemptions be limited to religious objections to vaccination, or should they also be granted to secular objections? Although the argument in the paper starts from the example of the US, it seeks to provide a more general philosophical reflection on the question of exemptions from mandatory childhood vaccination. PMID:28546785

On religious and secular exemptions: A case study of childhood vaccination waivers.

PubMed

Pierik, Roland

2017-04-01

This paper analyses exemptions to general law through the prism of vaccine waivers in the United States. All US states legally require the vaccination of children prior to school or daycare entry; however, this obligation is accompanied with a system of medical, religious, and/or philosophical exemptions. Nonmedical exemptions became subject of discussion after the 2015 Disneyland measles outbreak in California, which unequivocally brought to light what had been brewing below the surface for a while: a slow but steady decline in vaccination rates in Western societies, resulting in the reoccurrence of measles outbreaks. This can be traced back to an increasing public questioning of vaccines by a growing anti-vaccination movement. In reaction to the outbreak and the public outrage it generated, several states proposed-and some already passed-bills to eliminate nonmedical exemptions. I analyze two questions. First, can legal exemptions from mandatory childhood vaccination schemes for parents who are opposed to vaccination (still) be justified? Second, should legal exemptions be limited to religious objections to vaccination, or should they also be granted to secular objections? Although the argument in the paper starts from the example of the US, it seeks to provide a more general philosophical reflection on the question of exemptions from mandatory childhood vaccination.

A Study of Care Work in Welfare Facilities for the Elderly, Using Non Linear Analysis of Finger Plethysmograms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirohashi, Yoko; Oyama-Higa, Mayumi; Lee, Sangjae

2011-06-01

The fingertip pulse waves of a number of staff working in a daycare center for the elderly and a special nursing home for the elderly were measured several times throughout the day for a period of one or two days, and the chaotic information gained was analyzed using a non linear analysis method. As a result, a relation between the staff's length of career and the change of Largest Lyapunov Exponent (LLE) of the fingertip pulse waves that synchronized with the mental revitalization degrees and the tension of the sympathetic nerve was evident. The LLE of the staff with short careers dramatically changed and also took a long time to settle down again. In addition, staff LLE changed greatly after sessions of bathing assistance and watching residents with dementia. LLE measurements showed drops in some staff after a period of rest, but this was not the case for other staff. It can be concluded that the LLE is related to the length of the staff member's career and what is actually done during working hours and rest periods. A high level of sympathetic nerve was seen in almost all of the care workers. On this basis, the authors propose that improvements are needed in the content of the care work.

Exploring the Concern about Food Allergies among Secondary School and University Students in Ontario, Canada: A Descriptive Analysis.

PubMed

Majowicz, Shannon E; Jung, James K H; Courtney, Sarah M; Harrington, Daniel W

2017-01-01

Our objective was to explore the perceived risk of food allergies among students in Ontario, Canada. We analyzed blinding questions ("I am concerned about food allergies"; "food allergies are currently a big threat to my health") from three existing food safety surveys, given to high school and university undergraduate students ( n = 3,451) circa February 2015, using descriptive analysis, and explored how concern related to demographics and self-reported cooking ability using linear regression. Overall, high school students were neutral in their concern, although Food and Nutrition students specifically were significantly less concerned ( p = 0.002) than high school students overall. University undergraduates were moderately unconcerned about food allergies. Concern was highest in younger students, decreasing between 13 and 18 years of age and plateauing between 19 and 23 years. Among students aged 13-18 years, concern was higher among those who worked or volunteered in a daycare and who had previously taken a food preparation course. Among students aged 19-23 years, concern was higher among females and those with less advanced cooking abilities. Concern was significantly correlated with perceiving food allergies as a personal threat. This study offers a first exploration of perceived risk of food allergies among this demographic and can guide future, more rigorous assessments.

The Canadian Healthy Infant Longitudinal Development (CHILD) birth cohort study: assessment of environmental exposures.

PubMed

Takaro, Tim K; Scott, James A; Allen, Ryan W; Anand, Sonia S; Becker, Allan B; Befus, A Dean; Brauer, Michael; Duncan, Joanne; Lefebvre, Diana L; Lou, Wendy; Mandhane, Piush J; McLean, Kathleen E; Miller, Gregory; Sbihi, Hind; Shu, Huan; Subbarao, Padmaja; Turvey, Stuart E; Wheeler, Amanda J; Zeng, Leilei; Sears, Malcolm R; Brook, Jeffrey R

2015-01-01

The Canadian Healthy Infant Longitudinal Development birth cohort was designed to elucidate interactions between environment and genetics underlying development of asthma and allergy. Over 3600 pregnant mothers were recruited from the general population in four provinces with diverse environments. The child is followed to age 5 years, with prospective characterization of diverse exposures during this critical period. Key exposure domains include indoor and outdoor air pollutants, inhalation, ingestion and dermal uptake of chemicals, mold, dampness, biological allergens, pets and pests, housing structure, and living behavior, together with infections, nutrition, psychosocial environment, and medications. Assessments of early life exposures are focused on those linked to inflammatory responses driven by the acquired and innate immune systems. Mothers complete extensive environmental questionnaires including time-activity behavior at recruitment and when the child is 3, 6, 12, 24, 30, 36, 48, and 60 months old. House dust collected during a thorough home assessment at 3-4 months, and biological specimens obtained for multiple exposure-related measurements, are archived for analyses. Geo-locations of homes and daycares and land-use regression for estimating traffic-related air pollution complement time-activity-behavior data to provide comprehensive individual exposure profiles. Several analytical frameworks are proposed to address the many interacting exposure variables and potential issues of co-linearity in this complex data set.

Implementation of Dietary Reference Intake Standards in Preschool Menus in Poland

PubMed Central

Harton, Anna

2018-01-01

Although the nutritional value of preschool menus largely determines the proper nutrition of attending children, their nutrient composition often does not meet the standards. The purpose of the study was to assess the nutritional value of menus served in preschools throughout Poland. We analyzed a sample of 10 daily menus and inventory reports reflecting foods and beverages served in 270 full-board government-sponsored preschools. Nutrient content was calculated per child per day, and compared with 70% of dietary reference intake (DRI) for children aged 1–3 and 4–6. The content of energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates generally exceeded 70% of DRI. The amount of vitamins was correct, with the exception of vitamin D (100% of daycare centers (DCCs) were below the recommendations); in ≤3% of preschools vitamin E, folate, and niacin were below DRI. Calcium was too low in 63% of preschools for children aged 1–3 years and in 99% for 4–6-year-olds. A shortage of iodine, iron, and potassium (especially for 4–6-year-olds) was observed in a small number of preschools. Our study highlights the need for uniform legal standards of nutrition in childcare centers, based on the current recommendations for the age group. PMID:29748511

Wheezing conditions in early childhood: prevalence and risk factors in the city of São Paulo, Brazil.

PubMed Central

Benício, Maria Helena D.; Ferreira, Marcelo U.; Cardoso, Maria Regina A.; Konno, Sílvia C.; Monteiro, Carlos A.

2004-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence and risk factors for wheezing disorders in early childhood in São Paulo, Brazil, the largest metropolitan area of South America. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional survey of 1132 children aged 6-59 months was carried out between 1995 and 1996 to obtain information on recent wheezing and on independent variables such as demographic, socioeconomic, environmental, maternal and nutritional variables and immunization status. Intestinal parasitic infections were diagnosed using standard techniques. Multiple unconditional logistic regression was used to describe associations between outcome and independent variables. FINDINGS: The prevalence of recent wheezing (one or more reported episodes in the past 12 months) was 12.5%; 93% of children with wheezing were also reported to have a medical diagnosis of asthma. Recent wheezing was associated with low per capita income, poor quality of housing, day-care attendance, low birth weight and infection with intestinal helminths. CONCLUSION: Wheezing in early childhood in São Paulo, although more common than in most developing countries, remains less prevalent than in urban areas of industrialized countries. Low income and conditions associated with poverty (poor housing, low birth weight and parasitic infections) are some of the main risk factors for wheezing disorders among young children in this city. PMID:15508196

Personal carbon monoxide exposures of preschool children in Helsinki, Finland—comparison to ambient air concentrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alm, S.; Mukala, K.; Tiittanen, P.; Jantunen, M. J.

The associations of personal carbon monoxide (CO) exposures with ambient air CO concentrations measured at fixed monitoring sites, were studied among 194 children aged 3-6 yr in four downtown and four suburban day-care centers in Helsinki, Finland. Each child carried a personal CO exposure monitor between 1 and 4 times for a time period of between 20 and 24 h. CO concentrations at two fixed monitoring sites were measured simultaneously. The CO concentrations measured at the fixed monitoring sites were usually lower (mean maximum 8-h concentration: 0.9 and 2.6 mg m -3) than the personal CO exposure concentrations (mean maximum 8-h concentration: 3.3 mg m -3). The fixed site CO concentrations were poor predictors of the personal CO exposure concentrations. However, the correlations between the personal CO exposure and the fixed monitoring site CO concentrations increased (-0.03--0.12 to 0.13-0.16) with increasing averaging times from 1 to 8 h. Also, the fixed monitoring site CO concentrations explained the mean daily or weekly personal CO exposures of a group of simultaneously measured children better than individual exposure CO concentrations. This study suggests that the short-term CO personal exposure of children cannot be meaningfully assessed using fixed monitoring sites.

Implementation of Dietary Reference Intake Standards in Preschool Menus in Poland.

PubMed

Myszkowska-Ryciak, Joanna; Harton, Anna

2018-05-10

Although the nutritional value of preschool menus largely determines the proper nutrition of attending children, their nutrient composition often does not meet the standards. The purpose of the study was to assess the nutritional value of menus served in preschools throughout Poland. We analyzed a sample of 10 daily menus and inventory reports reflecting foods and beverages served in 270 full-board government-sponsored preschools. Nutrient content was calculated per child per day, and compared with 70% of dietary reference intake (DRI) for children aged 1⁻3 and 4⁻6. The content of energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates generally exceeded 70% of DRI. The amount of vitamins was correct, with the exception of vitamin D (100% of daycare centers (DCCs) were below the recommendations); in ≤3% of preschools vitamin E, folate, and niacin were below DRI. Calcium was too low in 63% of preschools for children aged 1⁻3 years and in 99% for 4⁻6-year-olds. A shortage of iodine, iron, and potassium (especially for 4⁻6-year-olds) was observed in a small number of preschools. Our study highlights the need for uniform legal standards of nutrition in childcare centers, based on the current recommendations for the age group.

[On family planning and socialist cultural civilization].

PubMed

Yin, G; Cao, J; Yin, W

1984-03-29

Family planning is a very important part of the Socialist cultural civilization, and it has a great impact on the ideology, ethics, and change of moral concepts. The old concept of having a large family and favoring boys over girls has been changed because of the popularization of family planning, and the overall quality of China's population can thus be improved. In the practical work of family planning, construction of the Socialist cultural civilization should be handled well. Science should be developed and taught to the general public, and the traditional ideology concerning birth and population should be gradually changed and eliminated. In this way, people will become more conscious of the need for family planning. In the meantime, efforts should be made to promote social welfare, such as the establishment of more and better daycare centers and nursing homes so that the common worries about family planning can be removed. The people should gradually learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens and understand that family planning is in the best interest of the whole country as well as for the good fortune of later generations. With close cooperation between the people and the government and with reasonable management of family planning, China will be built into a strong nation with an adavnced Socialist cultural civilization.

Using social marketing to increase awareness of the African American infant mortality disparity.

PubMed

Rienks, Jennifer; Oliva, Geraldine

2013-05-01

African American infants in San Francisco suffer a mortality rate two to three times higher than Whites, yet prior discussion groups with African American residents suggested they were unaware of this disparity. Social marketing techniques were used to develop and implement three campaigns to increase awareness. The campaign themes were (1) infant mortality disparities, (2) proper infant sleep position, and (3) taking action to reduce disparities. Mediums to carry messages included bus ads, radio ads, church fans, and posters and cards distributed at clinics, daycares, agency waiting rooms, and community organizations. Campaign effectiveness was evaluated using telephone surveys of African Americans. Almost 62% report some exposure to Campaign 1, 48.5% to Campaign 2, and 48.9% to Campaign 3. Chi-square analyses reveal a statistically ignificant increase in awareness of the disparity (39.6% vs. 62.7%, p < .0005, odds ratio [OR] = 2.5, confidence interval [CI] = 2.1-3.2). Although there was no overall significant increase in knowledge about proper sleep position, respondents who report any exposure to this campaign are more likely to know about sleep position (70.7% vs. 63.8%, p < .0001, OR = 2.2, CI = 1.6-3.2). Social marketing is an effective tool to increase disparity awareness, especially among groups disproportionately affected by the disparity.

Dental implant status of patients receiving long-term nursing care in Japan.

PubMed

Kimura, Toru; Wada, Masahiro; Suganami, Toru; Miwa, Shunta; Hagiwara, Yoshiyuki; Maeda, Yoshiobu

2015-01-01

The increase in implant patients is expected to give rise to a new problem: the changing general health status of those who have had implants placed. The aim of this present study was to find out the needs of and proper measures for elderly implant patients in long-term care facilities. A questionnaire was sent by mail to 1,591 long-term care health facilities, daycare services for people with dementia, and private nursing homes for the elderly in the Osaka area, which is in the middle area of Japan, in order to extract patients with cerebrovascular disease or dementia who were possibly at risk of inadequate oral self-care, as well as patients with implants. Approximately half of all facilities responded that they cannot recognize implants, and many facilities did not know anything about oral care for implant patients. Residents with implants were reported at 19% of all facilities. Also, the facilities pointed out problems with implants relating to the difference in oral care between implants and natural teeth. There are people with implants in some 20% of caregiving facilities, and there is a low level of understanding regarding implants and their care among nurses and care providers who are providing daily oral care. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Breast-feeding and hospitalization for asthma in early childhood: a nationwide longitudinal survey in Japan.

PubMed

Yamakawa, Michiyo; Yorifuji, Takashi; Kato, Tsuguhiko; Yamauchi, Yoshitada; Doi, Hiroyuki

2015-07-01

Whether or not breast-feeding is protective against asthma among children is still controversial. Therefore, we examined the effects of breast-feeding on hospitalization for asthma in early childhood. Secondary data analyses of a nationwide longitudinal survey of children in Japan ongoing since 2001, with results collected from 2001 to 2004. We used logistic regression models to evaluate the associations of breast-feeding with hospitalization for asthma in children between the ages of 6 and 42 months, adjusting for children's factors (sex, day-care attendance and presence of older siblings) and maternal factors (educational attainment and smoking habit). Setting All over Japan. Term singleton children with information on feeding practices during infancy (n 43367). After adjusting for maternal factors and children's factors, exclusive breast-feeding at 6-7 months of age was associated with decreased risk of hospitalization for asthma in children. The adjusted odds ratio was 0.77 (95% CI 0.56, 1.06). One-month longer duration of breast-feeding was associated with a 4% decreased risk of hospitalization for asthma (OR = 0.96; 95% CI 0.92, 0.99). The protective effects of breast-feeding on hospitalization for asthma were observed in children between the ages of 6 and 42 months.

Which neuromuscular or cognitive test is the optimal screening tool to predict falls in frail community-dwelling older people?

PubMed

Shimada, Hiroyuki; Suzukawa, Megumi; Tiedemann, Anne; Kobayashi, Kumiko; Yoshida, Hideyo; Suzuki, Takao

2009-01-01

The use of falls risk screening tools may aid in targeting fall prevention interventions in older individuals most likely to benefit. To determine the optimal physical or cognitive test to screen for falls risk in frail older people. This prospective cohort study involved recruitment from 213 day-care centers in Japan. The feasibility study included 3,340 ambulatory individuals aged 65 years or older enrolled in the Tsukui Ordered Useful Care for Health (TOUCH) program. The external validation study included a subsample of 455 individuals who completed all tests. Physical tests included grip strength (GS), chair stand test (CST), one-leg standing test (OLS), functional reach test (FRT), tandem walking test (TWT), 6-meter walking speed at a comfortable pace (CWS) and at maximum pace (MWS), and timed up-and-go test (TUG). The mental status questionnaire (MSQ) was used to measure cognitive function. The incidence of falls during 1 year was investigated by self-report or an interview with the participant's family and care staff. The most practicable tests were the GS and MSQ, which could be administered to more than 90% of the participants regardless of the activities of daily living status. The FRT and TWT had lower feasibility than other lower limb function tests. During the 1-year retrospective analysis of falls, 99 (21.8%) of the 455 validation study participants had fallen at least once. Fallers showed significantly poorer performance than non-fallers in the OLS (p = 0.003), TWT (p = 0.001), CWS (p = 0.013), MWS (p = 0.007), and TUG (p = 0.011). The OLS, CWS, and MWS remained significantly associated with falls when performance cut-points were determined. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the TWT was a significant and independent, yet weak predictor of falls. A weighting system which considered feasibility and validity scored the CWS (at a cut-point of 0.7 m/s) as the best test to predict risk of falls. Clinical tests of neuromuscular function can predict risk of falls in frail older people. When feasibility and validity were considered, the CWS was the best test for use as a screening tool in frail older people, however, these preliminary results require confirmation in further research. Copyright 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Prevalence and clinical presentation of constipation in children with severe generalized cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Veugelers, Rebekka; Benninga, Marc A; Calis, Elsbeth A C; Willemsen, Sten P; Evenhuis, Heleen; Tibboel, Dick; Penning, Corine

2010-09-01

Our aim was to study the prevalence and characteristics of constipation in children with profound multiple disabilities, as data in this area are scarce. A cross-sectional observational study was performed in specialized day-care centres and schools in the Netherlands. The study included 152 children (81 males, 71 females; mean age 9 y 6 mo, SD 4 y 6 mo). Intellectual disability ranged from moderate (7%) to profound (52%) in all participants who also had severe motor disabilities (83% classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System level V). We collected data on defaecation characteristics, food and fluid intake, and laxative consumption using standardized bowel diaries and interviews. Constipation was defined as (1) scybalous, pebble-like, hard stools in over a quarter of defaecations in combination with a defaecation frequency of less than three times per week during a 2-week study period; (2) large stools palpable on abdominal examination; or (3) laxative use or manual disimpaction of faeces. Of the studied population, 57% were constipated and 55% used laxatives, 27% of whom showed symptoms of constipation. Daily intakes of water and fibre were below the required standards in 87% and 53% of participants respectively, without a proven relation to constipation. Constipation is a common problem in children with severe disabilities. Laxative use is high but dosing is frequently inadequate to prevent symptoms.

Relationship between T2* magnetic resonance imaging-derived liver and heart iron content and serum ferritin levels in transfusion-dependent thalassemic children

PubMed Central

Suthar, Kiran; Goyal, Vishnu Kumar; Sharma, Pramod; Deopa, Bindu; Rathore, Pradeep Singh; Bishnoi, Rama Krishan

2018-01-01

CONTEXT: T2* magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is being increasingly used for the assessment of organ iron content in thalassemics, but cost is a major prohibitive factor for repeated measurements. If serum ferritin correlates well with the T2* MRI liver and heart, it will be economical and more simple tool to assess organ iron deposition. AIMS: The aim of this study was to find out the relationship between serum ferritin level and T2* MRI-derived liver and heart iron content in transfusion-dependent thalassemic children SETTINGS: Thalassemia day-care center of a teaching hospital DESIGN: This was a cross-sectional study SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Seventy-three transfusion-dependent beta thalassemic children belonging to 2–18 years of age were subjected to T2* MRI of heart and liver to assess their iron content. Values obtained here were related to serum ferritin. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Keeping the correlation between serum ferritin and T2* MRI as primary outcome, spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated. RESULTS: We found poor (negative) correlation between serum ferritin level and T2* MRI liver (r = -0.448, P = 0.000) but no correlation between serum ferritin and T2*MRI heart (r = -0.221, P = 0.060). Conclusions: Serum ferritin cannot reliably predict the liver and heart iron content in Indian children with β thalassemia. PMID:29563679

Taxation and Sugar-Sweetened Beverages: Position of Dietitians of Canada.

PubMed

2016-06-01

Dietitians of Canada recommends that an excise tax of at least 10-20% be applied to sugar-sweetened beverages sold in Canada given the negative impact of these products on the health of the population and the viability of taxation as a means to reduce consumption. For the greatest impact, taxation measures should be combined with other policy interventions such as increasing access to healthy foods while decreasing access to unhealthy foods in schools, daycares, and recreation facilities; restrictions on the marketing of foods and beverages to children; and effective, long-term educational initiatives. This position is based on a comprehensive review of the literature. The Canadian population is experiencing high rates of obesity and excess weight. There is moderate quality evidence linking consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages to excess weight, obesity, and chronic disease onset in children and adults. Taxation of sugar-sweetened beverages holds substantiated potential for decreasing its consumption. Based on economic models and results from recent taxation efforts, an excise tax can lead to a decline in sugar-sweetened beverage purchase and consumption. Taxation of up to 20% can lead to a consumption decrease by approximately 10% in the first year of its implementation, with a postulated 2.6% decrease in weight per person on average. Revenue generated from taxation can be used to fund other obesity reduction initiatives. A number of influential national organizations support a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages.

A 14-mo zinc-supplementation trial in apparently healthy Chilean preschool children.

PubMed

Ruz, M; Castillo-Duran, C; Lara, X; Codoceo, J; Rebolledo, A; Atalah, E

1997-12-01

Apparently healthy preschool children (46 boys, 52 girls) aged 27-50 mo from low socioeconomic conditions who attended daycare centers in Santiago participated in a 14-mo long double-blind zinc supplementation trial. Unlike most previous studies, no additional inclusion criteria such as short stature or slow growth rate were considered. Subjects were pair matched according to sex and age and randomly assigned to two experimental groups: the supplemented group, which received 10 mg Zn/d, and the placebo group. Selected anthropometric, clinical, dietary, biochemical, and functional indexes were determined at the beginning of the study and after 6 and 14 mo of intervention. Actual dietary zinc intake was 66% of the recommended dietary allowance. Height gain after 14 mo was on average 0.5 cm higher in the supplemented group (P = 0.10). The response, however, was different between sexes. Boys from the supplemented group gained 0.9 cm more than those in the placebo group (P = 0.045). No effect was seen in girls. Although no significant differences were observed in the rest of the variables studied, trends (0.05 < P < 0.10) in the supplemented group compared with the placebo group for increased midarm muscle area in boys, improved response to tuberculin, and reduced rates of parasite reinfestation were noted. We conclude that in preschool children of low socioeconomic status, zinc is a limiting factor in the expression of growth potential.

Use of a fermented dairy probiotic drink containing Lactobacillus casei (DN-114 001) to decrease the rate of illness in kids: the DRINK study. A patient-oriented, double-blind, cluster-randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial.

PubMed

Merenstein, D; Murphy, M; Fokar, A; Hernandez, R K; Park, H; Nsouli, H; Sanders, M E; Davis, B A; Niborski, V; Tondu, F; Shara, N M

2010-07-01

To evaluate whether a fermented dairy drink containing the probiotic strain Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001 could reduce the incidence of common infectious diseases (CIDs) and the change of behavior because of illness in children. We conducted a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled allocation concealment clinical trial in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Participants were 638 children 3-6 years old in daycare/schools. The intervention was a fermented dairy drink containing a specific probiotic strain or matching placebo with no live cultures for 90 consecutive days. Two primary outcomes were assessed: incidence of CIDs and change of behavior because of illness (both assessed by parental report). The rate of change of behavior because of illness was similar among active and control groups. However, the incidence rate for CIDs in the active group (0.0782) is 19% lower than that of the control group (0.0986) (incidence rate ratio=0.81, 95% CI: 0.65, 099) P=0.046. Daily intake of a fermented dairy drink containing the probiotic strain L. casei DN-114 001 showed some promise in reducing overall incidence of illness, but was primarily driven by gastrointestinal infections and there were no differences in change of behavior.

Pyroglyphid mites as a source of work-related allergens.

PubMed

Macan, Jelena; Kanceljak-Macan, Božica; Milković-Kraus, Sanja

2012-01-01

Pyroglyphid mites are primarily associated with allergen exposure at home; hence the name house dust mites. However, we have found numerous studies reporting pyroglyhid mite levels in public and occupational settings. This review presents the findings of house dust mite allergens (family Pyroglyphidae, species Dermatophagoides) as potential work-related risk factors and proposes occupations at risk of house dust mite-related diseases. Pyroglyphid mites or their allergens are found in various workplaces, but clinically relevant exposures have been observed in hotels, cinemas, schools, day-care centres, libraries, public transportation (buses, trains, taxies, and airplanes), fishing-boats, submarines, poultry farms, and churches. Here we propose a classification of occupational risk as low (occasional exposure to mite allergen levels up to 2 μg g(-1)), moderate (exposure between 2 μg g(-1) and 10 μg g(-1)), and high (exposure >10 μg g(-1)). The classification of risk should include factors relevant for indoor mite population (climate, building characteristics, and cleaning schedule). To avoid development or aggravation of allergies associated with exposure to house dust mites at work, occupational physicians should assess exposure risk at work, propose proper protection, provide vocational guidance to persons at risk and conduct pre-employment and periodic examinations to diagnose new allergy cases. Protection at work should aim to control dust mite levels at work. Measures may include proper interior design and regular cleaning and building maintenance.

Relationship between Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Frontoinsular Gray Matter and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Very Low Birth Weight Children at the Age of 4.

PubMed

Durlak, Wojciech; Herman-Sucharska, Izabela; Urbanik, Andrzej; Klimek, Małgorzata; Karcz, Paulina; Dutkowska, Grażyna; Nitecka, Magdalena; Kwinta, Przemko

2016-01-01

Very low birth weight is associated with long term neurodevelopmental complications. Macroscopic brain abnormalities in prematurity survivors have been investigated in several studies. However, there is limited data regarding local cerebral metabolic status and neurodevelopmental outcomes. The purpose of this study was to characterize the relationship between proton magnetic resonance spectra in basal ganglia, frontal white matter and frontoinsular gray matter, neurodevelopmental outcomes assessed with the Leiter scale and the Developmental Test of Visual Perception and selected socioeconomic variables in a cohort of very low birth weight children at the age of four. Children were divided in three groups based on the severity of neurodevelopmental impairment. There were no differences in spectroscopy in basal ganglia and frontal white matter between the groups. Lower concentrations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline (Cho) and myoinositol (mI) were observed in the frontoinsular cortex of the left hemisphere in children with neurodevelopmental impairment compared to children with normal neurodevelopmental outcomes. Higher parental education, daycare attendance and breastfeeding after birth were associated with more favorable neurodevelopmental prognosis, whereas rural residence was more prevalent in children with moderate and severe impairment. Our study demonstrates the role of long term neurometabolic disruption in the left frontoinsular cortex and selected socioeconomic variables in determination of neurodevelopmental prognosis in prematurity survivors.

Evaluation of a poliomyelitis immunization campaign in Madras city.

PubMed

Balraj, V; John, T J

1986-01-01

An annual pulse immunization campaign with oral polio vaccine (OPV) was evaluated to determine vaccine coverage, relative success of publicity methods and reasons for lack of response. The campaign was directed at 3-36 month olds in Madras city, India, in January-March 1985. The evaluation method was the "30-cluster" sample survey technique, designed by WHO, where surveys were done in 30 districts of the city on 10 children in each age group. The survey was conducted in April 1985 by 5 trained and supervised interviewers. This campaign increased the vaccine coverage to 94%, 88% and 72% for first, second and third doses of OPV. Coverage was higher in older children. Percent coverage decreased slightly over 1-3 doses, and from there rapidly up to 6-7 doses. The campaign accounted for 27% of all the OPV the study children had received. 47% of parents heard about the vaccination through word of mouth, either from health workers, volunteers or "balwadi ayahs," women day-care workers. 17% learned through television or radio. 3% cited mobile loudspeakers, handbills, posters or slides in cinemas. Many parents did not avail themselves of the vaccine because they believed that 3 doses are sufficient. Actually the WHO recommends 4 doses; the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommends 5 doses; while criteria from research on Indian children would suggest that 5-7 doses are required to raise strong immunity.

[Relationships between stress perception and stress biomarkers in family caregivers].

PubMed

Cheng, Kuan-Chin; Chiu, Yi-Chen; Lee, Yi-Nung; Liao, Shun-Kuei; Lee, Shwu-Hua

2011-06-01

Family caregivers (FCGs) of persons with dementia (PWDs) face chronic stress. However, their stress has often been assessed by their distress in the absence of physiological indicators. Studies to date have rarely documented the relationships between distress and various stress biomarkers. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between distress and stress biomarkers in FCGs. This was a secondary data analysis study that used data collected by two projects funded by the National Science Council. Samples included 113 dyads of PWDs and their FCGs willing to donate blood samples. Original study data sites comprised two teaching hospitals (memory clinics and psychiatric outpatients), two regional hospitals (neurology clinics), and two dementia daycare centers for community-dwelling PWDs in northern Taiwan. FCG distress was assessed using the Chinese Neuropsychological Inventory-Caregiver Distress Scale (CNPI-CD); Stress biomarkers included interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, cortisol, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Stress biomarker levels did not correlate with overall FCG distress related to PWD neuropsychological problems. However, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 levels did correlate with specific FCG distress toward specific PWD neuropsychological symptoms. This study found certain stress biomarkers (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10) associated with specific PWDs' neuropsychological symptoms (p < .05). Further longitudinal research is needed to clarify causal relationships between subjective distress and objective stress biomarkers to evaluate FCG stress levels more comprehensively.

The Canadian Healthy Infant Longitudinal Development (CHILD) birth cohort study: assessment of environmental exposures

PubMed Central

Takaro, Tim K; Scott, James A; Allen, Ryan W; Anand, Sonia S; Becker, Allan B; Befus, A Dean; Brauer, Michael; Duncan, Joanne; Lefebvre, Diana L; Lou, Wendy; Mandhane, Piush J; McLean, Kathleen E; Miller, Gregory; Sbihi, Hind; Shu, Huan; Subbarao, Padmaja; Turvey, Stuart E; Wheeler, Amanda J; Zeng, Leilei; Sears, Malcolm R; Brook, Jeffrey R

2015-01-01

The Canadian Healthy Infant Longitudinal Development birth cohort was designed to elucidate interactions between environment and genetics underlying development of asthma and allergy. Over 3600 pregnant mothers were recruited from the general population in four provinces with diverse environments. The child is followed to age 5 years, with prospective characterization of diverse exposures during this critical period. Key exposure domains include indoor and outdoor air pollutants, inhalation, ingestion and dermal uptake of chemicals, mold, dampness, biological allergens, pets and pests, housing structure, and living behavior, together with infections, nutrition, psychosocial environment, and medications. Assessments of early life exposures are focused on those linked to inflammatory responses driven by the acquired and innate immune systems. Mothers complete extensive environmental questionnaires including time-activity behavior at recruitment and when the child is 3, 6, 12, 24, 30, 36, 48, and 60 months old. House dust collected during a thorough home assessment at 3–4 months, and biological specimens obtained for multiple exposure-related measurements, are archived for analyses. Geo-locations of homes and daycares and land-use regression for estimating traffic-related air pollution complement time-activity-behavior data to provide comprehensive individual exposure profiles. Several analytical frameworks are proposed to address the many interacting exposure variables and potential issues of co-linearity in this complex data set. PMID:25805254

How Postpartum Women With Depressive Symptoms Manage Sleep Disruption and Fatigue.

PubMed

Doering, Jennifer J; Sims, Dauphne A; Miller, Donald D

2017-04-01

Postpartum sleep and fatigue have bidirectional relationships with depressive symptoms and challenge women's everyday functioning. The everyday process of managing postpartum sleep and fatigue in the context of depressive symptoms remains unexplored. We conducted a grounded theory study with a sample of 19 women who screened positive on the Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (PDSS™) Short Form at 3 weeks postpartum. Women completed semi-structured in-home interviews and the full PDSS and Modified Fatigue Symptoms Checklist at 1, 3, and 6 months postpartum. The sample was on average 27 years old, with 2.8 children, and 63% were African-American. They described a basic social process of Finding a Routine Together, during which women's experiences with their infants progressed from Retreating at month 1 toward Finding a New Normal at month 6. In their work to Find a Routine Together, mothers' patterns of change over time were continuous, gradual, or prolonged. Their progress was influenced by depressive symptoms, social support, work and daycare, stability in social circumstances, and underlying stressors. This study's findings suggest the need to allocate resources and tailor interventions to meet the needs of women who are most vulnerable to the health effects of ongoing persistent severe fatigue, disordered sleep, and sub-clinical and clinical levels of depressive symptoms. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Prevalence and risk factors of dental erosion in American children.

PubMed

Habib, Mariam; Hottel, Timothy L; Hong, Liang

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and characteristics of dental erosion in children aged 2-4 years old and 12 years old. 243 subjects were recruited from daycare centers, preschools, and grade schools; they received dental examinations assessing their condition of dental erosion, including both depth and area of tooth surface loss on four maxillary incisors. Questionnaires were given to the subjects to obtain socio-demographic, oral health behaviors at home, and access to dental care. Dental erosion was analyzed and risk factors were assessed using Chi-Square and logistic regression analysis. The subjects were 60% Caucasians, 31% Black, 7% Hispanic and others were 2%. 34% of children could not get the dental care they needed within the past 12 months and 61% of all children brushed their teeth twice or more daily. Overall, 12% of study children had dental erosion with 13% for 2-4 years old and 10% for 12 years old, with the majority of erosive lesions within enamel. Family income (OR 3.98, p = 0.021) and acidic fruit juice consumption (OR 2.38, p = 0.038) were significant risk factors for dental erosion, even after controlling for other factors, such as source of drinking water and oral hygiene using logistic regression analysis. Dental erosion is a relatively common problem among the children in this study and it is seen as a multi-factorial process.

Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and indicators of early immune stimulation: the Estelle study (SFCE)

PubMed Central

Ajrouche, R; Rudant, J; Orsi, L; Petit, A; Baruchel, A; Lambilliotte, A; Gambart, M; Michel, G; Bertrand, Y; Ducassou, S; Gandemer, V; Paillard, C; Saumet, L; Blin, N; Hémon, D; Clavel, J

2015-01-01

Background: Factors related to early stimulation of the immune system (breastfeeding, proxies for exposure to infectious agents, normal delivery, and exposure to animals in early life) have been suggested to decrease the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Methods: The national registry-based case–control study, ESTELLE, was carried out in France in 2010–2011. Population controls were frequency matched with cases on age and gender. The participation rates were 93% for cases and 86% for controls. Data were obtained from structured telephone questionnaires administered to mothers. Odds ratios (OR) were estimated using unconditional regression models adjusted for age, gender, and potential confounders. Results: In all, 617 ALL and 1225 controls aged ⩾1 year were included. Inverse associations between ALL and early common infections (OR=0.8, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.6, 1.0), non-first born (⩾3 vs 1; OR=0.7, 95% CI: 0.5, 1.0), attendance of a day-care centre before age 1 year (OR=0.7, 95% CI: 0.5, 1.0), breastfeeding (OR=0.8, 95% CI: 0.7, 1.0), and regular contact with pets (OR=0.8, 95% CI: 0.7, 1.0) in infancy were observed. Conclusions: The results support the hypothesis that conditions promoting the maturation of the immune system in infancy have a protective role with respect to ALL. PMID:25675150

AGREEMENT BETWEEN MEASURED AND PERCEIVED NUTRITIONAL STATUS REPORTED BY PRESCHOOL CHILDREN’S MOTHERS

PubMed Central

Pedraza, Dixis Figueroa; Sousa, Carolina Pereira da Cunha; de Olinda, Ricardo Alves

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the agreement between nutritional status perceived by mothers and that diagnosed in preschool children, by providing the differences according to children’s sex and age. Methods: Study with data from a cohort of 269 preschool children assisted in public daycare centers of Campina Grande, Paraíba (Northeast Brazil). Children’s information about their date of birth, sex and nutritional status (weight/stature Z scores) was collected. Furthermore, the mothers were asked about their perception of children’s weight. The diagnostic agreement between the measured nutritional status and that perceived by mothers was assessed through the weighted Kappa test, with a 5% significance level. Results: The percentage of disagreement between the measured nutritional status and that perceived by mothers was 32.7%, with Kappa of 0.122, which is considered insignificant. There was a remarkable overweight underestimation (69.6%). Agreement between maternal perception of overweight and the diagnosed nutritional status was higher for older children (36-59 months versus 24-35 months) and for girls. Conclusions: The study regarding maternal perception of preschool children’s nutritional status showed the difficulty that mothers face in recognizing the real nutritional status of their children, especially the underestimation of overweight. Maternal perception of overweight in children is misrepresented in boys and in younger children with more importance. PMID:28977296

Everyday and exotic foodborne parasites

PubMed Central

Lee, Marilyn B

2000-01-01

Everyday foodborne parasites, which are endemic in Canada, include the protozoans Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium parvum. However, these parasites are most frequently acquired through unfiltered drinking water, homosexual activity or close personal contact such as in daycare centres and occasionally via a food vehicle. It is likely that many foodborne outbreaks from these protozoa go undetected. Transmission of helminth infections, such as tapeworms, is rare in Canada because of effective sewage treatment. However, a common foodborne parasite of significance is Toxoplasma gondii. Although infection can be acquired from accidental ingestion of oocysts from cat feces, infection can also result from consumption of tissue cysts in undercooked meat, such as pork or lamb. Congenital transmission poses an immense financial burden, costing Canada an estimated $240 million annually. Also of concern is toxoplasmosis in AIDS patients, which may lead to toxoplasmosis encephalitis, the second most common AIDS-related opportunistic infection of the central nervous system. Exotic parasites (ie, those acquired from abroad or from imported food) are of growing concern because more Canadians are travelling and the number of Canada's trading partners is increasing. Since 1996, over 3000 cases of Cyclospora infection reported in the United States and Canada were epidemiologically associated with importation of Guatemalan raspberries. Unlike toxoplasmosis, where strategies for control largely rest with individual practices, control of cyclosporiasis rests with government policy, which should prohibit the importation of foods at high risk. PMID:18159283

Parents' attitudes and behaviours towards recommended vaccinations in Sicily, Italy

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Since a long time, Italy has maintained a dual system to administer childhood immunisations, that is a certain number of mandatory vaccinations and a number of recommended vaccinations. The study aimed to explore the issues surrounding parental acceptance or non-acceptance of the recommended vaccinations for children. Methods Parents of children aged 3-5 years of day-care centres in Sicily were asked to fill out an anonymous questionnaire. Determinants of the attitude towards recommended vaccinations and social influence on the decision-making process were assessed using logistic regression analysis. Results Of the 1,500 selected parents, 81.0% participated in the study. Prior to the survey, the majority of children (97.6%) received recommended vaccines. Most parents (74.4%) received information about vaccinations from Family Paediatricians, showed a good knowledge about the side effects of the vaccines (73.1%), did not worry about their potential dangerousness (53.0%) and would have accepted their children to be vaccinated even if it was not required for day care (84.1%). The majority (79.9%) were not disposed to follow the advises of the anti-vaccination movements. Parents' background characteristics, sources of information and social influence were not significantly associated with parental acceptance of recommended vaccines for childhood. Conclusions This study suggests that health information by Family Paediatricians is significantly associated with parental acceptance of recommended vaccinations. PMID:21569424

Serving large portions of vegetable soup at the start of a meal affected children's energy and vegetable intake.

PubMed

Spill, Maureen K; Birch, Leann L; Roe, Liane S; Rolls, Barbara J

2011-08-01

This study tested whether varying the portion of low-energy-dense vegetable soup served at the start of a meal affects meal energy and vegetable intakes in children. Subjects were 3- to 5-year-olds (31 boys and 41 girls) in daycare facilities. Using a crossover design, children were served lunch once a week for four weeks. On three occasions, different portions of tomato soup (150, 225, and 300 g) were served at the start of the meal, and on one occasion no soup was served. Children had 10 min to consume the soup before being served the main course. All foods were consumed ad libitum. The primary outcomes were soup intake as well as energy and vegetable intake at the main course. A mixed linear model tested the effect of soup portion size on intake. Serving any portion of soup reduced entrée energy intake compared with serving no soup, but total meal energy intake was only reduced when 150 g of soup was served. Increasing the portion size increased soup and vegetable intake. Serving low-energy-dense, vegetable soup as a first course is an effective strategy to reduce children's intake of a more energy-dense main entrée and increase vegetable consumption at the meal. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serving large portions of vegetable soup at the start of a meal affected children’s energy and vegetable intake

PubMed Central

Spill, Maureen K.; Birch, Leann L.; Roe, Liane S.; Rolls, Barbara J.

2011-01-01

This study tested whether varying the portion of low-energy-dense vegetable soup served at the start of a meal affects meal energy and vegetable intakes in children. Subjects were 3- to 5-year-olds (31 boys and 41 girls) in daycare facilities. Using a crossover design, children were served lunch once a week for four weeks. On three occasions, different portions of tomato soup (150, 225, and 300 g) were served at the start of the meal, and on one occasion no soup was served. Children had 10 minutes to consume the soup before being served the main course. All foods were consumed ad libitum. The primary outcomes were soup intake as well as energy and vegetable intake at the main course. A mixed linear model tested the effect of soup portion size on intake. Serving any portion of soup reduced entrée energy intake compared with serving no soup, but total meal energy intake was only reduced when 150 g of soup was served. Increasing the portion size increased soup and vegetable intake. Serving low-energy-dense, vegetable soup as a first course is an effective strategy to reduce children’s intake of a more energy-dense main entrée and increase vegetable consumption at the meal. PMID:21596073

Bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus in an area of portugal: epidemiology, clinical features, and risk factors.

PubMed

Flores, P; Rebelo-de-Andrade, H; Gonçalves, P; Guiomar, R; Carvalho, C; Sousa, E N; Noronha, F T; Palminha, J M

2004-01-01

The aim of the present study was to analyse the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in 225 children observed in a paediatric hospital in Lisbon, Portugal, and to determine the clinical, epidemiological, or laboratory parameters that correlate with greater severity of the disease. This prospective study included hospitalised and ambulatory children younger than 36 months of age with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis and was conducted during two consecutive RSV epidemiological seasons (November-March 2000/01 and 2001/02). The median age of the patients was 5 months, and the male-to-female ratio was 1.6:1. RSV was isolated in 60.9% of patients, predominantly in the hospitalised group. The subtype A:B ratio was 7.4:1 and was similar in both seasons. RSV-positive patients were younger, had more severe clinical forms of bronchiolitis, and fewer changes in leucocyte total and differential counts. Among infected patients, higher clinical severity scores occurred in association with first wheezing episodes, overcrowded households, attendance at day-care centres, or prematurity (<36 weeks). This first prospective study of RSV epidemiology in Portugal provides a foundation for appropriate surveillance programmes of RSV infection in this country. A multicentre study is desirable in order to delineate optimal prophylactic and therapeutic guidelines for RSV infection in Portugal.

Surveillance of home environment in children with atopic dermatitis: a questionnaire survey

PubMed Central

Lee, Jung Hyun; Suh, Jungmin; Kim, Eun Hye; Cho, Joong Bum; Park, Hwa Young; Kim, Jihyun; Cheong, Hae Kwan

2012-01-01

Background The increasing prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) suggests a role for environmental factors in triggering a genetic predisposition in sufferers. Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate home environmental factors related to AD severity. Methods We conducted a questionnaire survey about the home environmental factors in 380 children from two daycare centers and the Samsung Medical Center outpatient clinic. AD was diagnosed by Hanifin and Rajka's criteria and its severity was assessed by the Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis index. Children were divided into normal control group, mild AD group and severe AD group. Home environmental factors were compared among the three groups and were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and multiple logistic analysis. Results Indoor remodeling activities, such as painting (p = 0.004), floor covering (p = 0.001) and wallpaper changing (p = 0.002) were associated with severity of AD. Those in the severe AD group were more likely to live in an apartment (p < 0.001). Severe AD was observed more frequently when the monthly income of household (p = 0.027) and final educational status of mother (p = 0.001) were higher. Conclusion Some home environmental factors were associated with AD severity, but its causal relationship is not clear. Further research is needed to confirm these associations and to clarify whether they are causative. PMID:22348208

Iranian nursing staff's self-reported general and mental health related to working conditions and family situation.

PubMed

Arsalani, N; Fallahi-Khoshknab, M; Josephson, M; Lagerstrom, M

2012-09-01

There is increasing global evidence that today's work environment results in higher risk of adverse health among nursing staff than among other professions. To investigate self-reported general and mental health among Iranian nursing staff, and associations with organizational, physical and psychosocial working conditions and family situation. 520 nursing personnel from 10 university hospitals in Tehran participated in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire in the Persian language, containing the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire, physical items from the Nurse Early eXit Study and two scales relating to general health and mental health from the Short Form-36. The Chi-square test with P<0.05 and logistic regression were used to analyse data. Three out of four nursing staff reported overtime work. The self-reported general and mental health rates of participants were poor/fair (38%, 41%), good (44%, 39%) and very good/excellent (18%, 20%), respectively. Family demands were associated with general health but were not associated with mental health. Adverse physical and psychosocial work conditions gave an elevated odds ratio for poor health. Poor general and mental health was associated with adverse working conditions and family demands. Physical and psychosocial working conditions of nursing personnel should be improved. Social facilities such as daycare for children and care for the elderly should be available during work shifts to help Iranian nurses play their family roles. © 2012 The Authors. International Nursing Review © 2012 International Council of Nurses.

Palliative care volunteerism across the healthcare system: A survey study.

PubMed

Vanderstichelen, Steven; Houttekier, Dirk; Cohen, Joachim; Van Wesemael, Yanna; Deliens, Luc; Chambaere, Kenneth

2018-05-01

Volunteers fulfil several roles in supporting terminally ill people and their relatives and can positively influence quality of care. Healthcare in many countries faces resource constraints and some governments now expect communities to provide an increasing proportion of palliative care. However, systematic insights into volunteer presence, tasks and training and organisational challenges for volunteerism are lacking. Describe organised volunteerism in palliative direct patient care across the Flemish healthcare system (Belgium). A cross-sectional postal survey using a self-developed questionnaire was conducted with 342 healthcare organisations. The study included full population samples of palliative care units, palliative day-care centres, palliative home care teams, medical oncology departments, sitting services, community home care services and a random sample of nursing homes. Responses were obtained for 254 (79%) organisations; 80% have volunteers providing direct patient care. Psychosocial, signalling and existential care tasks were the most prevalent volunteer tasks. The most cited organisational barriers were finding suitable (84%) and new (80%) volunteers; 33% of organisations offered obligatory training (75% dedicated palliative care, 12% nursing homes). Differences in volunteer use were associated with training needs and prevalence of organisational barriers. Results suggest potential for larger volunteer contingents. The necessity of volunteer support and training and organisational coordination of recruitment efforts is emphasised. Organisations are encouraged to invest in adequate volunteer support and training. The potential of shared frameworks for recruitment and training of volunteers is discussed. Future research should study volunteerism at the volunteer level to contrast with organisational data.

The factors associated with the quality of life of the spouse caregivers of patients with cancer: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Son, Ki Young; Lee, Chi Hoon; Park, Sang Min; Lee, Choong Hyeong; Oh, Soo In; Oh, Bumjo; Tak, Seong Ha; Cho, Belong; Lee, Kiheon; Lee, Se Hoon

2012-02-01

It is well known that cancer greatly affects not only patients but also their families. However, few studies on caregivers' quality of life have been conducted within the Asian population. We carried out a survey using well-constructed, self-administered questionnaires that were answered by pairs of patients with cancer and their spouse-caregivers (n=100 pairs) who were visiting the cancer daycare center at Seoul National University Hospital. The caregiver's quality of life (QOL) was assessed by the Korean version of the Caregiver Quality Of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC), which contains four domains along with other items. Possible determinants of caregiver QOL were categorized according to sociodemographic factors, caregiver burden, health risk factors, spirituality, and family function. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with spouse-caregivers' QOL. Having a reason or purpose for living was associated with the total CQOLC score (β=3.408, p=0.025) and positive adaptation (β=1.035, p=0.009). Family function was associated with total CQOLC and all the domains except burden, and caregivers' religion was associated with total CQOLC. Monthly household income and cigarette smoking status were associated with financial concern. Having a reason and purpose for living, which is an aspect of spirituality, was a relevant factor in the spousal caregivers' QOL. Future research is needed to confirm the association between spirituality and caregivers' QOL and whether interventions supporting spirituality could improve their QOL.

[Mealtime support for patients with eating disorders: a survey on the clinical practice in German eating disorders centers].

PubMed

Brockmeyer, Timo; Friederich, Hans-Christoph; Jäger, Burkard; Schwab, Michael; Herzog, Wolfgang; de Zwaan, Martina

2015-03-01

Mealtime support is a cornerstone of eating disorders (ED) inpatient and day-care treatment but has received only little attention in research so far and no valid recommendations are available for this type of intervention. Thus, the aim of the present study was to gather a comprehensive picture of how mealtime support is currently practiced in Germany. In a nationwide survey, 97 staff members from 66 ED centers across Germany completed a survey-form that covered 4 broad topics: (a) setting, (b) general conditions, (c) specific interventions, and (d) treatment providers' perspective. For the most part, mealtime support is delivered by nurses. Two thirds of the centers provide at least one therapeutically supported meal per day. Most centers offer their patients a kitchen and/or a guided cooking group. Patient eating behavior and amount of food eaten is documented by three quarters of staff members. Most staff members offer some kind of role modeling by eating their own meals at the same table. Food exposure is provided by a minority. Whereas two thirds use sanctions when patients did not achieve their eating goals, only one third use positive reinforcement when patients achieved their goals. Less than one half offer some kind of post-meal support. The results provide important insights into the current practice of mealtime support and will thus inform future studies that examine the efficacy of different types and interventions of mealtime support. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Hygiene interventions for prevention of cytomegalovirus infection among childbearing women: systematic review.

PubMed

Harvey, Jessica; Dennis, Cindy-Lee

2008-09-01

This paper is a report of a systematic review to examine the effectiveness of preventive interventions to reduce congenital cytomegalovirus transmission and infection among women of childbearing age. Congenital cytomegalovirus has been identified as the leading infectious cause of damage to the growing fetus in developed countries, including Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome and spina bifida. Despite the prevalence and consequences of this infection, it has a low profile and pregnant mothers are often unaware of the risks and protective behaviours related to its transmission. Women with children in daycare and nurses working with children are particularly at risk of acquiring the virus. A computerized literature search for articles up to 1 December 2007 was performed using MEDLINE (from 1950); EMBASE (from 1980) and CINAHL (from 1982). Both authors independently reviewed studies that met inclusion criteria and assigned a quality rating determined by the number of validity criteria met. Differences were discussed until consensus was reached. Differences in hygiene behaviour changes were most statistically significant for pregnant, seronegative women. Although the methodological quality of the three included studies was not strong, seroconversion rates consistently decreased as cytomegalovirus education and support increased. Nurses can act as preventive agents for cytomegalovirus infection through education about hygiene precautions during antenatal care and through preventive measures in the workplace. The review findings suggest educational interventions in hygiene practices have the potential to be a feasible, large-scale, primary prevention strategy.

Impact of sociodemographic attributes and dental caries on quality of life of intellectual disabled children using ECOHIS

PubMed Central

Aggarwal, Vikram Pal; Mathur, Anmol; Dileep, C.L; Batra, Manu; Makkar, Diljot Kaur

2016-01-01

Objectives To assess the impact of oral health outcomes on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) among intellectual disabled children and their families. Methodology OHRQoL based study was conducted among 150 intellectual disabled children students in the North West part of the country, Rajasthan, India. Guardians were asked to complete questionnaire on socioeconomic status and the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) on their perception of the children’s OHRQoL. Clinical assessment included dental caries and OHI-S INDEX. Univariate regression analysis was fitted to assess covariates for the prevalence of impacts on OHRQoL. Results 54% of the caregivers reported that their child had an impact on at least one ECOHIS item. Negative impacts were more prevalent on items related to difficulty in eating some foods, difficulty in pronouncing any words and missed preschool, day-care or school. The univariate Poisson regression analysis showed that dental caries was significantly associated with the outcome. The prevalence of any impact on OHRQoL was approximately 1.32 and 2.84 times higher for children with low and higher severity of dental caries respectively when compared with those who were free of caries. Conclusion Patient-oriented outcomes like OHRQoL will enhance our understanding of the relationship between oral health and general health and demonstrate to clinical researchers and practitioners that improving the quality of patient’s well-being go beyond simply treating dental disease and disorders. PMID:27833512

[Infectious diseases and use of health care resources in children less than 2 years-old who attend kindergarten].

PubMed

Domínguez Aurrecoechea, B; Fernández Francés, M; Ordóñez Alonso, M Á; López Vilar, P; Pérez Candás, J I; Merino Ramos, L; Aladro Antuña, A; Fernández López, F J; Pérez López, A M

2015-09-01

Parents often ask paediatricians for advice about the best way to care for their children. There are discrepancies in the literature on this subject. The objective of this study is to evaluate the influence of attending kindergartens on the risk of acute infections and the use of health care resources in children less than 24 months. A prospective longitudinal study was conducted on two cohorts of children 0-24 months (born between 1 January and 30 September 2010), who were grouped according to whether they attended kindergarten or not, and were usually seen in 33 pediatric clinics of the Principality of Asturias Public Health Service. A total of 975 children were studied, of whom 43.7% attended a kindergarten at 24 months. Attending kindergarten increases the risk of pneumonia by 131%, recurrent wheezing by 69%, bronchitis by 57%, and otitis media by 64%. Early exposure to kindergarten increases the risk of pneumonia from 2.31 to 2.81, and the mean emergency room visits from 1 to 2.3. The mean antibiotic cycle is 1.7 in children who do not go to kindergarten, 3.4 if started within the first 6 months, and 2 if they start at 18 months. Day-care attendance is a risk factor of infectious diseases that increases if attending kindergartens from an early age. Copyright © 2014 Asociación Española de Pediatría. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of Pneumococcal Nasopharyngeal Carriage Among Children 2-18 Months of Age: Baseline Study Pre Introduction of Pneumococcal Vaccination in Cuba.

PubMed

Toledo, María E; Casanova, Maria F; Linares-Pérez, Nivaldo; García-Rivera, Dagmar; Toraño Peraza, Gilda; Barcos Pina, Indira; Montes de Oca, Martha; Rodriguez-Noda, Laura M; Mirabal, Mayelín; Paredes, Beatriz; Chávez Amaro, Dunia M; Santana Mederos, Darielys; Valdés-Balbín, Yury; Verez-Bencomo, Vicente

2017-01-01

A new vaccine candidate against pneumococcus is being developed in Cuba, and it is a priority of the national health system. There is limited information on nasopharyngeal colonization burden, though it is essential for monitoring the impact of the vaccine. The study aims to estimate the prevalence of nasopharyngeal colonization in children 2-18 months of age and identify circulating serotypes, antimicrobial resistance and its association with selected risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted between October and December 2013 in Cienfuegos municipality. Inclusion criteria were evaluated, and informed consent was obtained from the parents. Clinical and epidemiologic data were collected through a semistructured questionnaire. Nasopharyngeal swabs according to established protocols were taken. Data analysis included frequency distributions and comparison of proportions. The association between colonization and selected risk factors was assessed by multivariate analysis. A total of 984 children (87.2% living in urban areas) were included. The overall prevalence of colonization was 21.6%. The most frequent serotypes isolated were 6A (23.1%), 23F (10.8%), 6B (10.3%), 19F (8.5%) and 14 (3.3%). We found no resistance to β-lactamases in circulating serotypes. Living with sibling younger than 5 years, previous respiratory infections, previous hospitalization and day-care attendance were determinants of nasopharyngeal carriage. The findings suggest that the burden of pneumococcal disease and colonization in Cuba could be significantly affected after vaccine introduction.

Role of Primary Health Care in child hospitalization due to pneumonia: a case-control study.

PubMed

Pina, Juliana Coelho; Moraes, Suzana Alves de; Freitas, Isabel Cristina Martins de; Mello, Débora Falleiros de

2017-05-22

to evaluate the association of primary health care and other potential factors in relation to hospitalization due to pneumonia, among children aged under five years. epidemiological study with a case-control, hospital-based design, which included 345 cases and 345 controls, matched according to gender, age and hospital. Data were collected using a pre-coded questionnaire and the Primary Care Assessment Tool, analyzed by means of multivariate logistic regression, following the assumptions of a hierarchical approach. the protective factors were: family income >US$216.12 (OR=0.68), weight gain during pregnancy ≥10 kg (OR=0.68), quality of Primary Health Care (OR for scores >3.41=0.57; OR for scores >3.17 and ≤3.41=0.50), gastro-esophageal reflux (OR=0.55), overweight (OR=0.37) and birth interval ≥48 months (OR=0.28). The risk factors included: parity (2 childbirths: OR=4.60; ≥3 childbirths: OR=3.25), out-of-date vaccination (OR=2.81), undernutrition (OR=2.53), history of wheezing (≥3 episodes OR=2.37; 1 episode: OR=2.13), attendance at daycare center (OR=1.67), and use of medicines over the past month (OR=1.67). primary health care and its child health care practices, such as nutritional monitoring, immunization, care to prevalent illnesses, prenatal care and family planning need to be prioritized to avoid child hospitalization due to pneumonia.

Pediatric disaster preparedness and response and the nation's children's hospitals.

PubMed

Lyle, Kristin C; Milton, Jerrod; Fagbuyi, Daniel; LeFort, Roxanna; Sirbaugh, Paul; Gonzalez, Jacqueline; Upperman, Jeffrey S; Carmack, Tim; Anderson, Michael

2015-01-01

Children account for 30 percent of the US population; as a result, many victims of disaster events are children. The most critically injured pediatric victims would be best cared for in a tertiary care pediatric hospital. The Children's Hospital Association (CHA) undertook a survey of its members to determine their level of readiness to respond to a mass casualty disaster. The Disaster Response Task Force constructed survey questions in October 2011. The survey was distributed via e-mail to the person listed as an "emergency manager/disaster contact" at each association member hospital and was designed to take less than 15 minutes to complete. The survey sought to determine how children's hospitals address disaster preparedness, how prepared they feel for disaster events, and how CHA could support their efforts in preparedness. One hundred seventy-nine surveys were distributed with a 36 percent return rate. Seventy percent of respondent hospitals have a structure in place to plan for disaster response. There was a stronger level of confidence for hospitals in responding to local casualty events than for those responding to large-scale regional, national, and international events. Few hospitals appear to interact with nonmedical facilities with a high concentration of children such as schools or daycares. Little commonality exists among children's hospitals in approaches to disaster preparedness and response. Universally, respondents can identify a disaster response plan and routinely participate in drills, but the scale and scope of these plans and drills vary substantially.

Involvement of the family physician in the care of chemotherapy-treated patients with cancer: patients' perspectives.

PubMed

Ben-Ami, Eytan; Merom, Hadar; Sikron, Fabienne; Livneh, Jessica; Sadetzki, Siegal; Wolf, Ido

2014-09-01

Increasing numbers of patients receive active ambulatory oncology treatment over prolonged periods of time. Many of these patients suffer from additional comorbidities and require comprehensive medical care. We aimed to assess the perception of patients with cancer regarding the role of the family physician and the oncologist in their care during times of active cancer treatment. A survey was conducted among 265 consecutive chemotherapy-treated patients at the daycare oncology clinic. All the patients were affiliated with one of four Israeli health maintenance organizations, 96% had a regular family physician, and 70% had met with him during the preceding month. Only one third of the patients thought their family physician was trained to or was willing to treat medical problems that occurred during chemotherapy treatment. Yet most patients, irrespective of clinical or socioeconomic variables, stated that involvement of the family physician was important to them. Only 30% stated that the oncologist communicated with the family physician. Accordingly, 72% of the patients stated that in the case of an urgent problem they would turn first to the oncology clinic; only 9% would consult their family physician. Our data point to a lack of communication between team members and inadequate medical training as major barriers for comprehensive medical care for chemotherapy-treated patients with cancer. Communication between treating teams may improve medical care for oncology patients with multiple treating practitioners. Copyright © 2014 by American Society of Clinical Oncology.