scholarly journals Action video game training improves text reading accuracy, rate and comprehension in children with dyslexia: a randomized controlled trial

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jessica L. Peters ◽  
Sheila G. Crewther ◽  
Melanie J. Murphy ◽  
Edith L. Bavin
Keyword(s):  
Visual Attention ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Temporal Processing ◽  
Comparison Group ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Rapid Naming ◽  
Accuracy Rate ◽  
Treatment As Usual ◽  
Low Contrast ◽  
Reading Accuracy

AbstractDynamic visual attention training using Action Video Games (AVGs) is a promising intervention for dyslexia. This study investigated the efficacy of 5 h (10 × 30 min) of AVG training in dyslexic children (aged 8–13) using ‘Fruit Ninja’, while exploring whether increasing attentional and eye movement demands enhanced AVG effectiveness. Regular (AVG-R; n = 22) and enhanced AVG training (AVG+; n = 23) were compared to a treatment-as-usual comparison group (n = 19) on reading, rapid naming, eye movements and visuo-temporal processing. Playing ‘Fruit Ninja’ for only 5 h significantly improved reading accuracy, rate, comprehension and rapid naming of both AVG groups, compared to the comparison group, though increasing attentional demands did not enhance AVG efficacy. Participants whose low contrast magnocellular-temporal processing improved most following training also showed significantly greater improvement in reading accuracy. The findings demonstrate a clear role for visual attention in reading and highlight the clinical applicability of AVGs as a fun, motivational and engaging intervention for dyslexia.

scholarly journals Evaluation of a Serious Video Game to Facilitate Conversations About Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Preteens: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

10.2196/16883 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. e16883
Author(s):  
Joan R Cates ◽  
Bernard F Fuemmeler ◽  
Laurie L Stockton ◽  
Sandra J Diehl ◽  
Jamie L Crandell ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Human Papillomavirus ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Comparison Group ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Hpv Vaccination ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
The United States ◽  
Decisional Balance ◽  
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination

Background In the United States, the most common sexually transmitted infection, human papillomavirus (HPV), causes genital warts and is associated with an estimated 33,700 newly diagnosed cancer cases annually. HPV vaccination, especially for preteens aged 11 to 12 years, is effective in preventing the acquisition of HPV and HPV-associated cancers. However, as of 2018, completion of the 2- or 3-dose HPV vaccination series increased only from 48.6% to 51.1% in teens aged 13 to 17 years, and this increase was observed only in boys. By comparison, 88.7% of teens had more than one dose of the recommended vaccine against tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap), and 85.1% of teens had more than one dose of meningococcal vaccine. Immunizations for Tdap, meningococcal disease, and HPV can occur at the same clinical visit but often do not. Objective Vaccination against HPV is recommended for routine use in those aged 11 to 12 years in the United States, yet it is underutilized. We aimed to develop an educational video game to engage preteens in the decision to vaccinate. Methods Land of Secret Gardens is a metaphor for protecting seedlings (body) with a potion (vaccine). We screened 131 dyads of parents and preteens from 18 primary practices in North Carolina who had not initiated HPV vaccination. We measured vaccination intentions, story immersion, and game play and documented HPV vaccination rates. A total of 55 dyads were enrolled, and we randomly assigned 28 (21 completed) to play the game and 27 (26 completed) to the comparison group. Results In total, 18 preteens reported playing the game. The vaccination self-efficacy score was higher in the comparison group than the intervention group (1.65 vs 1.45; P=.05). The overall mean decisional balance score trended toward greater support of vaccination, although differences between the groups were not significant.. Vaccine initiation and completion rates were higher in the intervention group (22% vs 15%; P=.31) than in the comparison group (9% vs 2%; P=.10), although the difference was not significant. Conclusions Video games help preteens in the decision to pursue HPV vaccination. A serious video game on HPV vaccination is acceptable to parents and preteens and can be played as intended. Gamification is effective in increasing preteen interest in HPV vaccination, as game features support decision making for HPV vaccination. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04627298; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04627298

scholarly journals Evaluation of a Serious Video Game to Facilitate Conversations About Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Preteens: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joan R Cates ◽  
Bernard F Fuemmeler ◽  
Laurie L Stockton ◽  
Sandra J Diehl ◽  
Jamie L Crandell ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Human Papillomavirus ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Comparison Group ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Hpv Vaccination ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
The United States ◽  
Decisional Balance ◽  
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination

BACKGROUND In the United States, the most common sexually transmitted infection, human papillomavirus (HPV), causes genital warts and is associated with an estimated 33,700 newly diagnosed cancer cases annually. HPV vaccination, especially for preteens aged 11 to 12 years, is effective in preventing the acquisition of HPV and HPV-associated cancers. However, as of 2018, completion of the 2- or 3-dose HPV vaccination series increased only from 48.6% to 51.1% in teens aged 13 to 17 years, and this increase was observed only in boys. By comparison, 88.7% of teens had more than one dose of the recommended vaccine against tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap), and 85.1% of teens had more than one dose of meningococcal vaccine. Immunizations for Tdap, meningococcal disease, and HPV can occur at the same clinical visit but often do not. OBJECTIVE Vaccination against HPV is recommended for routine use in those aged 11 to 12 years in the United States, yet it is underutilized. We aimed to develop an educational video game to engage preteens in the decision to vaccinate. METHODS <i>Land of Secret Gardens</i> is a metaphor for protecting seedlings (body) with a potion (vaccine). We screened 131 dyads of parents and preteens from 18 primary practices in North Carolina who had not initiated HPV vaccination. We measured vaccination intentions, story immersion, and game play and documented HPV vaccination rates. A total of 55 dyads were enrolled, and we randomly assigned 28 (21 completed) to play the game and 27 (26 completed) to the comparison group. RESULTS In total, 18 preteens reported playing the game. The vaccination self-efficacy score was higher in the comparison group than the intervention group (1.65 vs 1.45; <i>P</i>=.05). The overall mean decisional balance score trended toward greater support of vaccination, although differences between the groups were not significant.. Vaccine initiation and completion rates were higher in the intervention group (22% vs 15%; <i>P</i>=.31) than in the comparison group (9% vs 2%; <i>P</i>=.10), although the difference was not significant. CONCLUSIONS Video games help preteens in the decision to pursue HPV vaccination. A serious video game on HPV vaccination is acceptable to parents and preteens and can be played as intended. Gamification is effective in increasing preteen interest in HPV vaccination, as game features support decision making for HPV vaccination. CLINICALTRIAL ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04627298; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04627298

scholarly journals Effectiveness of Wellbeing Intervention for Chronic Kidney Disease (WICKD): results of a randomised controlled trial

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kylie M. Dingwall ◽  
Michelle Sweet ◽  
Alan Cass ◽  
Jaquelyne T. Hughes ◽  
David Kavanagh ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Randomised Controlled Trial ◽  
Kidney Disease ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Psychosocial Interventions ◽  
Mental Wellbeing ◽  
Indigenous Australians ◽  
Treatment As Usual ◽  
Randomised Controlled ◽  
Hep B ◽  
Distress Scale

Abstract Background End stage kidney disease (ESKD) is associated with many losses, subsequently impacting mental wellbeing. Few studies have investigated the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for people with ESKD and none exist for Indigenous people, a population in which the ESKD burden is especially high. Methods This three-arm, waitlist, single-blind randomised controlled trial examined efficacy of the Stay Strong App in improving psychological distress (Kessler distress scale; K10), depressive symptoms (adapted Patient Health Questionnaire; PHQ-9), quality of life (EuroQoL; EQ. 5D) and dialysis adherence among Indigenous Australians undergoing haemodialysis in central and northern Australia (Alice Springs and Darwin), with follow up over two 3-month periods. Effects of immediate AIMhi Stay Strong App treatment were compared with those from a contact control app (The Hep B Story) and treatment as usual (TAU). Control conditions received the Stay Strong intervention after 3 months. Results Primary analyses of the full sample (N = 156) showed statistically significant decreases in K10 and PHQ-9 scores at 3 months for the Hep B Story but not for the Stay Strong app or TAU. Restricting the sample to those with moderate to severe symptoms of distress or depression (K10 > =25 or PHQ-9 > =10) showed significant decreases in K10 and PHQ-9 scores for both Stay Strong and Hep B Story. No significant differences were observed for the EQ-5D or dialysis attendance. Conclusions Findings suggest that talking to people about their wellbeing and providing information relevant to kidney health using culturally adapted, locally relevant apps improve the wellbeing of people on dialysis. Further research is required to replicate these findings and identify active intervention components. Trial registration ACTRN12617000249358; 17/02/2017.

scholarly journals A novel ACT-based video game to support mental health through embedded learning: a mixed-methods feasibility study protocol

BMJ Open ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. e041667
Author(s):  
Darren J Edwards ◽  
Andrew H Kemp
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Emotional Regulation ◽  
Cognitive Skills ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Mental Health Disorder ◽  
Acceptance And Commitment ◽  
Randomised Controlled

IntroductionIn recent years, serious video games have been used to promote emotional regulation in individuals with mental health issues. Although these therapeutic strategies are innovative, they are limited with respect to scope of treatment, often focusing on specific cognitive skills, to help remediate a specific mental health disorder.ObjectiveHere, we propose a protocol for assessing the feasibility of a novel acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)-based video game for young adults.Methods and analysisThe Medical Research Council (MRC) framework will be used for developing a complex intervention to design and test the feasibility of an ACT-based video game intervention using a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative and quantitative data. The primary outcomes will include feasibility testing of recruitment processes and the acceptability of the intervention through qualitative interviews, attendance and rates of attrition. Secondary outcomes will involve a series of quantitative questionnaires to obtain effect sizes for power analysis, allowing for the ideal sample size for an appropriately powered, randomised controlled trial to be determined.Ethics and disseminationThis study has been approved by the Psychology Department Research Ethics Committee (2020-4929-3923) at Swansea University in the UK. Dissemination activities will involve publications in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at local and national conferences and promotion through social media.Trial registration numberNCT04566042.

scholarly journals Brief psychotherapy in Alzheimer's disease

2005 ◽  
Vol 187 (2) ◽  
pp. 143-147 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alistair Burns ◽  
Else Guthrie ◽  
Federica Marino-Francis ◽  
Charlotte Busby ◽  
Julie Morris ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Cognitive Function ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Good Evidence ◽  
Psychotherapeutic Intervention ◽  
Interpersonal Therapy ◽  
Treatment As Usual ◽  
Affective Symptoms

BackgroundAlthough there is good evidence that interventions for carers of people with Alzheimer's disease can reduce stress, no systematic studies have investigated psychotherapeutic intervention for patients themselves. This may be important in the earlier stages of Alzheimer's disease, where insight is often preserved.AimsThe aim was to assess, in a randomised controlled trial, whether psychotherapeutic intervention could benefit cognitive function, affective symptoms and global well-being.MethodIndividuals were randomised to receive six sessions of psychodynamic interpersonal therapy or treatment as usual; cognitive function, activities of daily living, a global measure of change, and carer stress and coping were assessed prior to and after the intervention.ResultsNo improvement was found on the majority of outcome measures. There was a suggestion that therapy had improved the carers' reactions to some of the symptoms.ConclusionsThere is no evidence to support the widespread introduction of brief psychotherapeutic approaches for those with Alzheimer's disease. However, the technique was acceptable and helpful individually.

scholarly journals Physical exercise and internet-based cognitive–behavioural therapy in the treatment of depression: Randomised controlled trial

2015 ◽  
Vol 207 (3) ◽  
pp. 227-234 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mats Hallgren ◽  
Martin Kraepelien ◽  
Agneta öjehagen ◽  
Nils Lindefors ◽  
Zangin Zeebari ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Exercise ◽  
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Medical Practitioner ◽  
Work Capacity ◽  
Behavioural Therapy ◽  
General Medical Practitioner ◽  
Treatment As Usual ◽  
Moderate Depression ◽  
Cognitive Behavioural

BackgroundDepression is common and tends to be recurrent. Alternative treatments are needed that are non-stigmatising, accessible and can be prescribed by general medical practitioners.AimsTo compare the effectiveness of three interventions for depression: physical exercise, internet-based cognitive–behavioural therapy (ICBT) and treatment as usual (TAU). A secondary aim was to assess changes in self-rated work capacity.MethodA total of 946 patients diagnosed with mild to moderate depression were recruited through primary healthcare centres across Sweden and randomly assigned to one of three 12-week interventions (trail registry: KCTR study ID: KT20110063). Patients were reassessed at 3 months (response rate 78%).ResultsPatients in the exercise and ICBT groups reported larger improvements in depressive symptoms compared with TAU. Work capacity improved over time in all three groups (no significant differences).ConclusionsExercise and ICBT were more effective than TAU by a general medical practitioner, and both represent promising non-stigmatising treatment alternatives for patients with mild to moderate depression.

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