Irish journal of medical science
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Breastfeeding rates in Ireland are among the lowest in the world; thus, it is important to understand what knowledge and skills exist and what are the education needs of dietitians. There has been no Irish research on dietitians' perception of their role in promoting, protecting and supporting breastfeeding. ⋯ Further examination of the role of the dietitian and the establishment of expected competencies would provide a clear framework for future training and education of dietitians towards increasing breastfeeding prevalence in Ireland.
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Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a major cause of morbidity and death worldwide, with prevalence highest among people who inject drugs (PWID), homeless populations and prisoners. The World Health Organization has published targets to be achieved by 2030 as part of its global health sector strategy to eliminate viral hepatitis. Recent innovations in testing and treatment of HCV mean such goals are achievable with effective infrastructure, political will and funding. 'HepCare Europe' was a 3-year, EU-funded project involving four member states. ⋯ In HepCheck, HepLink. HepEd and HepFriend, we demonstrate a series of interventions to improve Irish HCV outcomes. Our findings highlight the benefits of multilevel interventions in HCV care.
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Acute myocardial infarction in patients with type two diabetes mellitus is usually present with multiple vessel lesions during coronary angiography. The underlying mechanism remains unexplored, and there is a deficiency of serum predictive markers. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which is a critical measure of glycemic control, could be used as a reliable predictor of the severity of ACS. ⋯ In diabetic patients with acute coronary syndrome, HbA1c levels can be used as a predictor for the severity of CAD.
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Review
A brief literature review of the psychological benefits of volunteerism in watersports inclusion.
The 2009 National Guidelines on Physical Activity for Ireland assert that 'all people with disabilities should be active'. Events such as the Watersports Inclusion Games invite individuals across the full spectrum of abilities to take part in physical activity in the form of adaptive watersports. This literature review aims to assess the value of inclusive watersport events such as this in the context of what is currently published on the motivation and benefits for volunteers in watersports inclusion. ⋯ The outcomes of this review suggest that, while there are many papers published on the benefits for volunteers in general and in sport, there is a relative paucity of literature on volunteers in inclusive sport, and even less relating to inclusive watersports. This review identifies a powerful opportunity to provide evidence to support the benefits of inclusive watersport for both participants and volunteers. Further research is required on why volunteers become involved in inclusive watersports and the benefits they derive from their involvement.
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The decline in popularity of general surgery as a career has been well described. A number of factors have been put forward to explain this, for example, trainee burnout and perceived difficulty with work/life balance. The aim of this study was to elucidate the reasons for this among medical students in Ireland. ⋯ A small proportion of respondents plan to pursue a career in general surgery. This is concerning in view of attrition rates through junior years. Although lifestyle factors are significant, clarity regarding training pathways was also reported. Undergraduate education regarding career trajectory, quality of life and practicalities of a career in general surgery may increase applications.