Simultaneous beat-to-beat assessment of arterial blood pressure and quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in out-of-hospital and in-hospital settings

ObjectiveThe current recommendation for depth and rate of chest compression (CC) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is based on limited hemodynamic data recorded during human CPR. We have evaluated the possible association between CC depth and rate and continuously measured arterial blood pressure during adult CPR.MethodsThis prospective study included data from 104 patients resuscitated inside or outside hospital. Adequate data on continuously measured invasive arterial blood pressure (BP) and the quality of CPR from a defibrillator capable recording CPR quality parameters was successful in 39 patients. We used logistic regression and mixed effects modeling to identify CC depths and rates associated with systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥85 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥30 mmHg.ResultsWe analyzed 41,575 compression-BP pairs. The values for blood pressure varied greatly between the patients. SBP varied from 25 to 225 mmHg and DBP from 2 to 59 mmHg. CC rate 100–120/min and CC depth ≥60 mm (without mattress deflection correction) was associated with DBP ≥30 mmHg in both femoral (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.03, 1.26; p < 0.05) and radial (OR 4.70; 95% CI 3.92, 5.63; p < 0.001) recordings. For any given subject there was a weak upward trend in blood pressure as CC depth increased.ConclusionDeeper CC does not equal higher BP in every patient. The heterogeneity of patients creates a challenge to find the optimal way to resuscitate patients individually.Clinical Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00951704.     

The combined use of mechanical CPR and a carry sheet to maintain quality resuscitation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients during extrication and transport

BackgroundQuality of manual cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during extrication and transport of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims is known to be poor. Performing manual CPR during ambulance transport poses significant risk to the attending emergency medical services crew. We sought to use pre-hospital video recording to objectively analyse the impact of introducing mechanical CPR with an extrication sheet (Autopulse, Zoll) to an advanced, second-tier cardiac arrest response team.MethodsThe study was conducted prospectively using defibrillator downloads and analysis of pre-hospital video recording to measure the quality of CPR during extrication from scene and ambulance transport of the OHCA patient. Adult patients with non-traumatic OHCA were included. The interruption to manual CPR to during extrication and to deploy the mechanical CPR device was analysed.ResultsIn the manual CPR group, 53 OHCA cases were analysed for quality of CPR during extrication. The median time that chest compression was interrupted to allow the patient to be carried from scene to the ambulance was 270 s (IQR 201–387 s). 119 mechanical CPR cases were analysed. The median time interruption from last manual compression to first Autopulse compression was 39 s (IQR 29–47 s). The range from last manual compression to first Autopulse compression was 14–118 s.ConclusionMechanical CPR used in combination with an extrication sheet can be effectively used to improve the quality of resuscitation during extrication and ambulance transport of the refractory OHCA patient. The time interval to deploy the mechanical CPR device can be shortened with regular simulation training.     

A quality improvement initiative to optimize use of a mechanical chest compression device within a high-performance CPR approach to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest resuscitation

BackgroundMinimizing the chest compression pause associated with application of a mechanical CPR device is a key component of optimal integration into the overall resuscitation process. As part of a multi-agency implementation project, Anchorage Fire Department deployed LUCAS CPR devices on BLS and ALS fire apparatus for initiation early in resuscitation efforts. A 2012 report identified the pause interval for device application as a key opportunity for quality improvement (QI). In early 2013 we began a QI initiative to reduce device application time interval and optimize the overall CPR process. To assess QI initiative effectiveness, we compared key CPR process metrics from before to during and after its implementation.MethodsWe included all cases of EMS-treated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest during 2012 and 2013 in which a mechanical CPR device was used and the defibrillator electronic record was available. Continuous ECG and impedance data were analyzed to measure chest compression fraction, duration of the pause from last manual to first mechanical compression, and duration of the longest overall pause in the resuscitation effort.ResultsCompared to cases from 2012 (n = 61), median duration of the pause prior to first mechanical compression for cases from 2013 (n = 71) decreased from 21 (15, 31) to 7 (4, 12) s (p < 0.001), while median chest compression fraction increased from 0.90 (0.88, 0.93) to 0.95 (0.93, 0.96) (p < 0.001). Median duration of the longest pause decreased from 25 (20, 35) to 13 (10, 20) s (p < 0.001), while the proportion of cases where the longest pause was for mechanical CPR application decreased from 74% to 31% (p < 0.001).ConclusionsOur QI initiative substantially reduced the duration of the pause prior to first mechanical compression. Combined with the simultaneous significant increase in compression fraction and significant decrease in duration of the longest pause, this finding strongly suggests a large improvement in mechanical CPR device application efficiency within an overall high-performance CPR process.     

Clinician-reported lesion measurements in skin infection trials: Definitions,reliability, and association with patient-reported pain

ObjectivesOutcome assessments as clinical trial endpoints should be well-defined, reliable, and reflect meaningful treatment benefits. For acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI) trials, recent recommendations suggest a primary endpoint of reduction in skin lesion area. Objectives were: evaluate ABSSSI lesion area measurement reliability, evaluate impact of various lesion area definitions on treatment effect size, and explore relationships between lesion area and pain.MethodsData from two randomized, double-blinded Phase 3 trials comparing tedizolid to linezolid in ABSSSI and one open-label, non-comparative Phase 2 study of tedizolid in cellulitis/erysipelas and skin abscess were analyzed. Repeated lesion area measurements were prospectively obtained in all studies. In the open-label study, lesion area was measured by two investigators, using four different definitions. Repeated pain assessments using two patient-reported outcome instruments (Visual Analog Scale [VAS] and Faces Rating Scale [FRS]) were elicited in the randomized trials.ResultsAt baseline, lesion size did not correlate with pain intensity: r = 0.02 for VAS and r < 0.01 for FRS pain scores. However, decreasing lesion size and decreasing pain were strongly associated over time, regardless of initial lesion size or pain intensity (r = 0.20 for VAS and r = 0.21 for FRS scores at Day 10–13). Each lesion area definition demonstrated high inter-observer reliability (intra-class correlation coefficient > 0.95).ConclusionsDecreasing lesion area (indirect clinician-reported measure of benefit) and pain (direct patient-reported measure of benefit) were strongly associated over time, and lesion area measurements were reliable, regardless of their definition. These findings support both measures as outcome assessments in ABSSSI clinical trials.RegistrationClinicaltrials.govNCT01519778, NCT01170221, and NCT01421511.     

Advanced life support performance with manual and mechanical chest compressions in a randomized,multicentre manikin study

Aim of the studyClinical mechanical chest compression studies report diverging outcomes. Confounding effects of variability in hands-off fraction (HOF) and timing of necessary tasks during advanced life support (ALS) may contribute to this divergence. Study site variability in these factors coupled to randomization of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) method was studied during simulated cardiac arrest prior to a multicentre clinical trial.MethodAmbulance personnel from four sites were tested in randomized, simulated cardiac arrest scenarios with manual CPR or load-distributing band CPR (LDB-CPR) on manikins. Primary emphasis was on HOF and time spent before necessary predefined ALS task (ALS milestones). Results are presented as mean differences (confidence interval).ResultsAt the site with lowest HOF during manual CPR, HOF deteriorated with LDB-CPR by 0.06 (0.005, 0.118, p = 0.04), while it improved at the two sites with highest HOF during manual CPR by 0.07 (0.019, 0.112, p = 0.007) and 0.08 (0.004, 0.165, p = 0.042). Initial defibrillation was 29 (3, 55, p = 0.032) s delayed for LDB-CPR vs. manual CPR. Other ALS milestones trended toward earlier completion with LDB-CPR; only significant for intravenous access, mean difference 70 (24, 115, p = 0.003) s.ConclusionIn this manikin study, HOF for manual vs. mechanical chest compressions varied between sites. Study protocol implementation should be simulation tested before launching multicentre trials, to optimize performance and improve reliability and scientific interpretation.     

An intervention to reduce sitting and increase light-intensity physical activity at work: Design and rationale of the ‘Stand & Move at Work’ group randomized trial

BackgroundAmerican workers spend 70–80% of their time at work being sedentary. Traditional approaches to increase moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) may be perceived to be harmful to productivity. Approaches that target reductions in sedentary behavior and/or increases in standing or light-intensity physical activity [LPA] may not interfere with productivity and may be more feasible to achieve through small changes accumulated throughout the workdayMethods/designThis group randomized trial (i.e., cluster randomized trial) will test the relative efficacy of two sedentary behavior focused interventions in 24 worksites across two states (N = 720 workers). The MOVE + intervention is a multilevel individual, social, environmental, and organizational intervention targeting increases in light-intensity physical activity in the workplace. The STAND + intervention is the MOVE + intervention with the addition of the installation and use of sit-stand workstations to reduce sedentary behavior and enhance light-intensity physical activity opportunities. Our primary outcome will be objectively-measured changes in sedentary behavior and light-intensity physical activity over 12 months, with additional process measures at 3 months and longer-term sustainability outcomes at 24 months. Our secondary outcomes will be a clustered cardiometabolic risk score (comprised of fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, and blood pressure), workplace productivity, and job satisfactionDiscussionThis study will determine the efficacy of a multi-level workplace intervention (including the use of a sit-stand workstation) to reduce sedentary behavior and increase LPA and concomitant impact on cardiometabolic health, workplace productivity, and satisfaction.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02566317 (date of registration: 10/1/2015).     

Mechanical active compression–decompression cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ACD-CPR) versus manual CPR according to pressure of end tidal carbon dioxide (PETCO2) during CPR in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA)

AimIn animal and human studies, measuring the pressure of end tidal carbon dioxide (P_ETCO₂) has been shown to be a practical non-invasive method that correlates well with the pulmonary blood flow and cardiac output (CO) generated during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This study aims to compare mechanical active compression–decompression (ACD) CPR with standard CPR according to P_ETCO₂ among patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), during CPR and with standardised ventilation.MethodsThis prospective, on a cluster level, pseudo-randomised pilot trial took place in the Municipality of Göteborg. During a 2-year period, all patients aged >18 years suffering an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) of presumed cardiac etiology were enrolled. The present analysis included only tracheally intubated patients in whom P_ETCO₂ was measured for 15 min or until the detection of a pulse-giving rhythm.ResultsIn all, 126 patients participated in the evaluation, 64 patients in the mechanical chest compression group and 62 patients in the control group. The group receiving mechanical ACD-CPR obtained the significantly highest P_ETCO₂ values according to the average (p = 0.04), initial (p = 0.01) and minimum (p = 0.01) values. We found no significant difference according to the maximum value between groups.ConclusionIn this hypothesis generating study mechanical ACD-CPR compared with manual CPR generated the highest initial, minimum and average value of P_ETCO₂. Whether these data can be repeated and furthermore be associated with an improved outcome after OHCA need to be confirmed in a large prospective randomised trial.     

Prevalence of systemic air-embolism after prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation in newborns: A pilot study

BackgroundChest compressions (CC) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are the cornerstone of adult CPR protocols and are meant to restore circulation and improve outcome. Although adverse effects such as air-embolisms have been reported, these are rare and considered to be outweighed by beneficial effect. In newborns, however, the lung tissue is more fragile. Thus, the high intra-thoracic pressures resulting from CC may make the newborns more vulnerable for air-embolisms.ObjectivesWe studied the postmortem prevalence of air-embolism in neonates that have received CPR.MethodsProspective cohort analysis of newborns receiving CC during CPR. CPR was performed by trained staff according to ILCOR guidelines, in a tertiary hospital. Air-embolisms were sought after using CT/MRI and autopsy.ResultsDuring a 61/2 year period (2007–2014), n = 56 newborns received CC. Newborns were resuscitated following severe perinatal hypoxia, or due to complications during NICU treatment. In n = 14 (25.0%) circulation could not be restored (mean CPR duration: 32.7 ± 15.2 min). Post-mortem CT/MRI was performed in n = 9, of whom n = 8 (88.9%) had air-embolisms. Autopsy was performed in n = 9. The air-embolisms could not be retraced on autopsy except for n = 1 patient.In patients with CPR resulting in restored circulation (n = 42), no CT or MRI was performed for comparison due to radiation and/or hemodynamic instability. Cerebral ultrasound could not identify or exclude air-embolisms in this subgroup.ConclusionsPost-mortem CT after prolonged resuscitation showed a high prevalence of intravascular air-embolism. Autopsy was not suited to detect air-embolism. The clinical importance of air-embolisms on the lethal outcome needs further research.     

Quality of CPR: An important effect modifier in cardiac arrest clinical outcomes and intervention effectiveness trials

ObjectivesTo determine if the quality of CPR had a significant interaction with the primary study intervention in the NIH PRIMED trial.DesignThe public access database from the NIH PRIMED trial was accessed to determine if there was an interaction between quality of CPR performance, intervention, and outcome (survival to hospital discharge with modified Rankin Score (mRS) ≤3).SettingMulti-centered prehospital care systems across North America.PatientsOf 8719 adult patients enrolled, CPR quality was electronically recorded for compression rate, depth, and fraction in 6199 (71.1%), 3750 (43.0%) and 6204 (71.2%) subjects, respectively. “Acceptable” quality CPR was defined prospectively as simultaneous provision of a compression rate of 100/min (±20%), depth of 5 cm (±20%) and fraction of >50%. Significant interaction was considered as p < 0.05.InterventionStandard CPR with an activated versus sham (inactivated) ITD.Measurements and main resultsOverall, 848 and 827 patients, respectively, in the active and sham-ITD groups had “acceptable” CPR quality performed (n = 1675). There was a significant interaction between the active and sham-ITD and compression rate, depth and fraction as well as their combinations. The strongest interaction was seen with all three parameters combined (unadjusted and adjusted interaction p-value, <0.001). For all presenting rhythms, when “acceptable” quality of CPR was performed, use of an active-ITD increased survival to hospital discharge with mRS ≤3 compared to sham (61/848 [7.2%] versus 34/827 [4.1%], respectively; p = 0.006). The opposite was true for patients that did not receive “acceptable” quality of CPR. In those patients, use of an active – ITD led to significantly worse survival to hospital discharge with mRS ≤3 compared to sham (34/1012 [3.4%] versus 62/1061 [5.8%], p = 0.007).ConclusionsThere was a statistically significant interaction between the quality of CPR provided, intervention, and survival to hospital discharge with mRS ≤3 in the NIH PRIMED trial. Quality of CPR delivered can be an underestimated effect modifier in CPR clinical trials.     

Comparison of mechanical characteristics of the human and porcine chest during cardiopulmonary resuscitation

BackgroundMost studies investigating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) interventions or functionality of mechanical CPR devices have been performed using porcine models. The purpose of this study was to identify differences between mechanical characteristics of the human and porcine chest during CPR.Material and methodsCPR data of 90 cardiac arrest patients was compared to data of 14 porcine from two animal studies. Chest stiffness k and viscosity μ were calculated from acceleration and pressure data recorded using a Laerdal Heartstart 4000SP defibrillator during CPR. K and μ were calculated at chest compression depths of 15, 30 and 50 mm for three different time periods.ResultsAt a depth of 15 mm porcine chest stiffness was comparable to human chest stiffness at the beginning of resuscitation (4.8 vs. 4.5 N/mm) and clearly lower after 200 chest compressions (2.9 vs. 4.5 N/mm) (p < 0.05). At 30 and 50 mm porcine chest stiffness was higher at the beginning and comparable to human chest stiffness after 200 chest compressions. After 200 chest compressions porcine chest viscosity was similar to human chest viscosity at 15 mm (108 vs. 110 Ns/m), higher for 30 mm (240 vs. 188 Ns/m) and clearly higher for 50 mm chest compression depth (672 vs. 339 Ns/m) (p < 0.05).ConclusionIn conclusion, human and porcine chest behave relatively similarly during CPR with respect to chest stiffness, but differences in chest viscosity at medium and deep chest compression depth should at least be kept in mind when extrapolating porcine results to humans.     

An investigation of thrust,depth and the impedance cardiogram as measures of cardiopulmonary resuscitation efficacy in a porcine model of cardiac arrest

ObjectiveOptimising the depth and rate of applied chest compressions following out of hospital cardiac arrest is crucial in maintaining end organ perfusion and improving survival. The impedance cardiogram (ICG) measured via defibrillator pads produces a characteristic waveform during chest compressions with the potential to provide feedback on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and enhance performance. The objective of this pre-clinical study was to investigate the relationship between mechanical and physiological markers of CPR efficacy in a porcine model and examine the strength of correlation between the ICG amplitude, compression depth and end-tidal CO₂ (ETCO₂).MethodsTwo experiments were performed using 24 swine (12 per experiment). For experiment 1, ventricular fibrillation (VF) was induced and mechanical CPR commenced at varying thrusts (0–60 kg) for 2 min intervals. Chest compression depth was recorded using a Philips QCPR device with additional recording of invasive physiological parameters: systolic blood pressure, ETCO2, cardiac output and carotid flow. For experiment 2, VF was induced and mechanical CPR commenced at varying depths (0–5 cm) for 2 min intervals. The ICG was recorded via defibrillator pads attached to the animal's sternum and connected to a Heartsine 500P defibrillator. ICG amplitude, chest compression depth, systolic blood pressure and ETCO₂ were recorded during each cycle. In both experiments the within-animal correlation between the measured parameters was assessed using a mixed effect model.ResultsIn experiment 1 moderate within-animal correlations were observed between physiological parameters and compression depth (r = 0.69–0.77) and thrust (r = 0.66–0.82). A moderate correlation was observed between compression depth and thrust (r = 0.75). In experiment 2 a strong within-animal correlation and moderate overall correlations were observed between ICG amplitude and compression depth (r = 0.89, r = 0.79) and ETCO₂ (r = 0.85, r = 0.64).ConclusionIn this porcine model of induced cardiac arrest moderate within animal correlations were observed between mechanical and physiological markers of chest compression efficacy demonstrating the challenge in utilising a single mechanical metric to quantify chest compression efficacy. ICG amplitude demonstrated strong within animal correlations with compression depth and ETCO₂ suggesting its potential utility to provide CPR feedback in the out of hospital setting to improve performance.     

Telephone-adapted Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (tMBSR) for patients awaiting kidney transplantation

BackgroundPatients with progressive kidney disease experience increasing physiologic and psychosocial stressors and declining health-related quality of life (HRQOL).MethodsWe conducted a randomized, active-controlled, open-label trial to test whether a Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program delivered in a novel workshop-teleconference format would reduce symptoms and improve HRQOL in patients awaiting kidney transplantation. Sixty-three transplant candidates were randomized to one of two arms: i) telephone-adapted MBSR (tMBSR, an 8-week program of meditation and yoga); or ii) a telephone-based support group (tSupport). Participants completed self-report questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and after 6-months. Anxiety, measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) post-intervention served as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included: depression, sleep quality, pain, fatigue, and HRQOL assessed by SF-12 Physical and Mental Component Summaries (PCS, MCS).Results55 patients (age 54 ± 12 yrs) attended their assigned program (tMBSR, n = 27; tSupport, n = 28). 49% of patients had elevated anxiety at baseline. Changes in anxiety were small and did not differ by treatment group post-intervention or at follow-up. However, tMBSR significantly improved mental HRQOL at follow-up: + 6.2 points on the MCS - twice the minimum clinically important difference (95% CI: 1.66 to 10.8, P = 0.01). A large percentage of tMBSR participants (≥ 90%) practiced mindfulness and reported it helpful for stress management.ConclusionsNeither mindfulness training nor a support group resulted in clinically meaningful reductions in anxiety. In contrast, finding that tMBSR was more effective than tSupport for bolstering mental HRQOL during the wait for a kidney transplant is encouraging and warrants further investigation.ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01254214.     

“Rolling Refreshers”: A novel approach to maintain CPR psychomotor skill competence

ObjectivesHigh quality CPR skill retention is poor. We hypothesized that “just-in-time” and “just-in-place” training programs would be effective and well-accepted to maintain CPR skills among PICU staff.Methods“Rolling Refreshers”, a portable manikin/defibrillator system with chest compression sensor providing automated corrective feedback to optimize CPR skills, were conducted daily in the PICU with multidisciplinary healthcare providers. Providers practiced CPR until skill success was attained, prospectively defined as <3 corrective prompts within 30 s targeting chest compression (CC) rate 90–120/min, CC depth >38 mm during continuous CPR. Providers completing ≥2 refreshers/month (Frequent Refreshers [FR]) were compared to providers completing <2 refreshers/month (Infrequent Refreshers [IR]) for time to achieve CPR skill success. Univariate analysis performed using non-parametric methods. Following actual cardiac arrests, CPR providers were surveyed for subjective feedback on training approach efficacy (5-point Likert scale; 1 = poor to 5 = excellent).ResultsOver 15 weeks, 420 PICU staff were “refreshed”: 340 nurses, 34 physicians, 46 respiratory therapists. A consecutive sample of 20 PICU staff was assessed before subsequent refresher sessions (FREQ n = 10, INFREQ n = 10). Time to achieve CPR skill success was significantly less in FREQ (median 21 s, IQR: 15.75–30 s) than in INFREQ (median 67 s, IQR: 41.5–84 s; p < 0.001). Following actual resuscitations, CPR providers (n = 9) rated “Rolling Refresher” training as effective (mean = 4.2; Likert scale 1–5; standard deviation 0.67).ConclusionsA novel “Rolling Refresher” CPR skill training approach using “just-in-time” and “just-in-place” simulation is effective and well received by PICU staff. More frequent refreshers resulted in significantly shorter times to achieve proficient CPR skills.     

Effect of mattress deflection on CPR quality assessment for older children and adolescents

Appropriate chest compression (CC) depth is associated with improved CPR outcome. CCs provided in hospital are often conducted on a compliant mattress. The objective was to quantify the effect of mattress compression on the assessment of CPR quality in children.MethodsA force and deflection sensor (FDS) was used during CPR in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Department of a children's hospital. The sensor was interposed between the chest of the patient and hands of the rescuer and measured CC depth. Following CPR event, each event was reconstructed with a manikin and an identical mattress/backboard/patient configuration. CCs were performed using FDS on the sternum and a reference accelerometer attached to the spine of the manikin, providing a means to calculate the mattress deflection.ResultsTwelve CPR events with 14,487 CC (11 patients, median age 14.9 years) were recorded and reconstructed: 9 on ICU beds (9296 CC), 3 on stretchers (5191 CC). Measured mean CC depth during CPR was 47 ± 8 mm on ICU beds, and 45 ± 7 mm on stretcher beds with overestimation of 13 ± 4 mm and 4 ± 1 mm, respectively, due to mattress compression. After adjusting for this, the proportion of CC that met the CPR guidelines decreased from 88.4 to 31.8% on ICU beds (p < 0.001), and 86.3 to 64.7% on stretcher (p < 0.001). The proportion of appropriate depth CC was significantly smaller on ICU beds (p < 0.001).ConclusionCC conducted on a non-rigid surface may not be deep enough. FDS may overestimate CC depth by 28% on ICU beds, and 10% on stretcher beds.     

An evidence map of yoga for low back pain

ObjectiveYoga is being increasingly studied as a treatment strategy for a variety of different clinical conditions, including low back pain (LBP). We set out to conduct an evidence map of yoga for the treatment, prevention and recurrence of acute or chronic low back pain (cLBP).MethodsWe searched Medline, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized controlled trials (RCT), systematic reviews or planned studies on the treatment or prevention of acute back pain or cLBP. Two independent reviewers screened papers for inclusion, extracted data and assessed the quality of included studies.ResultsThree eligible systematic reviews were identified that included 10 RCTs (n = 956) that evaluated yoga for non-specific cLBP. We did not identify additional RCTs beyond those included in the systematic reviews. Our search of ClinicalTrials.gov identified one small (n = 10) unpublished trial and one large (n = 320) planned clinical trial. The most recent good quality systematic review indicated significant effects for short- and long-term pain reduction (n = 6 trials; standardized mean difference [SMD] −0.48; 95% CI, −0.65 to −0.31; I² = 0% and n = 5; SMD −0.33; 95% CI, −0.59 to −0.07; I² = 48%, respectively). Long-term effects for back specific disability were also identified (n = 5; SMD −0.35; 95% CI, −0.55 to −0.15; I² = 20%). No studies were identified evaluating yoga for prevention or treatment of acute LBP.ConclusionEvidence suggests benefit of yoga in midlife adults with non-specific cLBP for short- and long-term pain and back-specific disability, but the effects of yoga for health-related quality of life, well- being and acute LBP are uncertain. Without additional studies, further systematic reviews are unlikely to be informative.     

Detecting a clinically meaningful change in tic severity in Tourette syndrome: A comparison of three methods

ObjectiveTo compare three statistical strategies for classifying positive treatment response based on a dimensional measure (Yale Global Tic Severity Scale [YGTSS]) and a categorical measure (Clinical Global Impression—Improvement [CGI-I] scale).MethodSubjects (N = 232; 69.4% male; ages 9–69 years) with Tourette syndrome or chronic tic disorder participated in one of two 10-week, randomized controlled trials comparing behavioral treatment to supportive therapy. The YGTSS and CGI-I were rated by clinicians blind to treatment assignment. We examined the percent reduction in the YGTSS-Total Tic Score (TTS) against Much Improved or Very Much Improved on the CGI-I, computed a signal detection analysis (SDA) and built a mixture model to classify dimensional response based on the change in the YGTSS-TTS.ResultsA 25% decrease on the YGTSS-TTS predicted positive response on the CGI-I during the trial. The SDA showed that a 25% reduction in the YGTSS-TTS provided optimal sensitivity (87%) and specificity (84%) for predicting positive response. Using a mixture model without consideration of the CGI-I, the dimensional response was defined by 23% (or greater) reduction on the YGTSS-TTS. The odds ratio (OR) of positive response (OR = 5.68, 95% CI = [2.99, 10.78]) on the CGI-I for behavioral intervention was greater than the dimensional response (OR = 2.86, 95% CI = [1.65, 4.99]).ConclusionA 25% reduction on the YGTSS-TTS is highly predictive of positive response by all three analytic methods. For trained raters, however, tic severity alone does not drive the classification of positive response.Clinicaltrials.gov identifiers: NCT00218777; NCT00231985.     

The INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT (INDEPENDENT) study: Design and methods to address mental healthcare gaps in India

IntroductionDepression and diabetes are highly prevalent worldwide and often co-exist, worsening outcomes for each condition. Barriers to diagnosis and treatment are exacerbated in low and middle-income countries with limited health infrastructure and access to mental health treatment. The INtegrating DEPrEssioN and Diabetes treatmENT (INDEPENDENT) study tests the sustained effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a multi-component care model for individuals with poorly-controlled diabetes and depression in diabetes clinics in India.Materials and methodsAdults with diabetes, depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score ≥ 10), and ≥ 1 poorly-controlled cardiometabolic indicator (either HbA1c ≥ 8.0%, SBP ≥ 140 mm Hg, and/or LDL ≥ 130 mg/dl) were enrolled and randomized to the intervention or usual care. The intervention combined collaborative care, decision-support, and population health management. The primary outcome is the between-arm difference in the proportion of participants achieving combined depression response (≥ 50% reduction in Symptom Checklist score from baseline) AND one or more of: ≥ 0.5% reduction in HbA1c, ≥ 5 mm Hg reduction in SBP, or ≥ 10 mg/dl reduction in LDL-c at 24 months (12-month intervention; 12-month observational follow-up). Other outcomes include control of individual parameters, patient-centered measures (i.e. treatment satisfaction), and cost-effectiveness.ResultsThe study trained seven care coordinators. Participant recruitment is complete – 940 adults were screened, with 483 eligible, and 404 randomized (196 to intervention; 208 to usual care). Randomization was balanced across clinic sites.ConclusionsThe INDEPENDENT model aims to increase access to mental health care and improve depression and cardiometabolic disease outcomes among complex patients with diabetes by leveraging the care provided in diabetes clinics in India (clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT02022111).     

The effect of transport on quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

IntroductionMost manikin and clinical studies have found decreased quality of CPR during transport to hospital. We wanted to study quality of CPR before and during transport for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients and also whether quality of CPR before initiation of transport was different from the quality in patients only receiving CPR on scene.Materials and methodsQuality of CPR was prospectively registered with a modified defibrillator for consecutive cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in three ambulance services during 2002–2005. Ventilations were registered via changes in transthoracic impedance and chest compressions were measured with an extra chest compression pad placed on the patients’ sternum. Paired t-tests were used to analyse quality of CPR before vs. during transport with ongoing CPR. Unpaired t-tests were used to compare CPR quality prior to transport to CPR quality in patients with CPR terminated on site.ResultsQuality of CPR did not deteriorate during transport, but as previously reported overall quality of CPR was substandard. Quality of CPR performed on site was significantly better when transport was not initiated with ongoing CPR compared to episodes with initiation of transport during CPR: fraction of time without chest compressions was 0.45 and 0.53 (p < 0.001), compression depth 37 mm and 34 mm (p = 0.04), and number of chest compressions per minute 61 and 56 (p = 0.01), respectively.ConclusionCPR quality was sub-standard both before and during transport. Early decision to transport might have negatively affected CPR quality from the early stages of resuscitation.     

No difference in autopsy detected injuries in cardiac arrest patients treated with manual chest compressions compared with mechanical compressions with the LUCAS™ device—A pilot study

AimTo compare the variety and incidence of internal injuries after manual and mechanical chest compressions during CPR.MethodsIn a prospective pilot study conducted in two Swedish cities, 85 patients underwent autopsy after unsuccessful resuscitation attempts with manual or mechanical chest compressions, the latter with the LUCAS? device. Autopsy was performed and the results were evaluated according to a specified protocol.ResultsNo injuries were found in 26/47 patients in the manual group and in 16/38 patients in the LUCAS group (p = 0.28). Sternal fracture was present in 10/47 in the manual group and 11/38 in the LUCAS group (p = 0.46), and there were multiple rib fractures (≥3 fractures) in 13/47 in the manual group and in 17/38 in the LUCAS group (p = 0.12). Bleeding in the ventral mediastinum was noted in 2/47 and 3/38 in the manual and LUCAS groups respectively (p = 0.65), retrosternal bleeding in 1/47 and 3/38 (p = 0.32), epicardial bleeding in 1/47 and 4/38 (p = 0.17), and haemopericardium in 4/47 and 3/38 (p = 1.0) respectively. One patient in the LUCAS group had a small rift in the liver and one patient in the manual group had a rift in the spleen. These injuries were not considered to have contributed to the patient's death.ConclusionMechanical chest compressions with the LUCAS? device appear to be associated with the same variety and incidence of injuries as manual chest compressions.     

Influence of chest compression rate guidance on the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed on manikins

AimsThe adequate chest compression rate during CPR is associated with improved haemodynamics and primary survival. To explore whether the use of a metronome would affect also chest compression depth beside the rate, we evaluated CPR quality using a metronome in a simulated CPR scenario.MethodsForty-four experienced intensive care unit nurses participated in two-rescuer basic life support given to manikins in 10 min scenarios. The target chest compression to ventilation ratio was 30:2 performed with bag and mask ventilation. The rescuer performing the compressions was changed every 2 min. CPR was performed first without and then with a metronome that beeped 100 times per minute. The quality of CPR was analysed with manikin software. The effect of rescuer fatigue on CPR quality was analysed separately.ResultsThe mean compression rate between ventilation pauses was 137 ± 18 compressions per minute (cpm) without and 98 ± 2 cpm with metronome guidance (p < 0.001). The mean number of chest compressions actually performed was 104 ± 12 cpm without and 79 ± 3 cpm with the metronome (p < 0.001). The mean compression depth during the scenario was 46.9 ± 7.7 mm without and 43.2 ± 6.3 mm with metronome guidance (p = 0.09). The total number of chest compressions performed was 1022 without metronome guidance, 42% at the correct depth; and 780 with metronome guidance, 61% at the correct depth (p = 0.09 for difference for percentage of compression with correct depth).ConclusionsMetronome guidance corrected chest compression rates for each compression cycle to within guideline recommendations, but did not affect chest compression quality or rescuer fatigue.