Does Antipsychotic Induce Weight Gain in Schizophrenia - Essay Example

Article Analysis]   By   Insert   Presented to Location Due   Introduction The cure forserious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia among others has remained antipsychotic medication for a long period of time. Several research procedures have been made to establish the likely effects of the use of these drugs and likely methodologies that could be adopted to serve as likely alternatives. It has been observed that the increased use of this newer second generation antipsychotics has resulted into alarming consequences of weight gain amongst other symptomatic- related problems in metabolism. This has sparked a likely unrest especially amongst physicians and concerns about how to alleviate the situation are in order (Mauer, 2011: 34).The antipsychotics are closely associated to an apparent yet predictable increase in weight that is more proclaimed during the first period of medication of the second generation antipsychotics. After the first period however, the weight gain is considerably low though it still persists. An analysis done on a sample of 101 serious mentally ill patients was set up over a two year period to help analyze the likely changes that could be effected through medically proven procedures. These procedures include disciplined healthy eating habits, education and exercises. Significantly, the test was done to mainly establish other. The weight to be examined was mainly associated with abdominal obesity. Interventions have been initiated in an attempt to control the weight gain associated with these medications, including lifestyle, education, weight loss medications, and exercise have all been tried and evaluated. Currently, the research indicates significantly greater weight reduction in lifestyle intervention groups or standard care groups. (Sheldon, 2007: 32). The article aims to critically analyze the credibility of these procedures, analyze the findings as well as recommend for any probable interventions that could be used instead. A study research involving seriously ill mental patients is arguably one of the hardest studies one is likely to perform. It is prone to so much inaccuracy as the subjects under investigation are not likely to be relied upon to comprehensively provide satisfying information. Therefore, the mere use of the subjects is more likely to be considered full of bias as compared to stable subjects. However, the use of even numbers of both male and female subjects is more likely to provide more accurate results in a particular study unless the two are compared separately. The study in this case is not gender sensitive in terms of providing the results and therefore the mention of the number of males and females should also be rendered insignificant (Osborn, 2012: 121) Keywords are stated earlier within any paper in order to provide the reader with an idea of what exactly is involved in the study. The author has used most if the keywords stated and will likely earn the marks intended for the section. For instance the reader is able to notice the appearance of the keyword medical syndrome approximately five times within the paper. However, it is indeed negligent of the author to not mention the keyword nursing within the entire paper. This is very much likely to cost him for marks awarded on the use of keywords. In order to avoid this, the author should be able to create a few instances that will allow mention of the keyword “nursing”. In the category of what the paper is likely to add, the author provides a conflicting statement when mention of the insignificance of the result is made. I beg to disagree mildly on this with my supportive statement being that this can be already indicated by the results and that it beats the whole idea of conducting the experiment. The reader should clearly motivated when reading the paper and the author should maybe back up the statement with a more affirmative statement such as how the results could be better use elsewhere. The title should also be more descriptive especially in order to conclusively allow the reader to know what to expect under the section (Foster, 2013: 22) The abstract clearly outlines the case involved and is well suited to better explain the methodology that will be involved during the experiment. Additionally it is aptly set for the target audience as it clearly states the main aim of the paper. Though brief, it describes the main intent of the paper though a more detailed abstract would have been much convenient as it would provide additional information on what say a researcher might have been interested in getting to know. Its form is however correct as it is specific to the case study. The abstract can be presented in a more concise manner and still be able to bring out the intended purpose. Many researchers are more used to the way in which the abstract is able to clearly bring out the meaning using at least a paragraph of words or number of statements. In the introduction, providing a little background information about the state of weight gain on seriously mentally ill patients as well as the causative agent goes a long way in outlining the subject matter. The writer is especially categorical in ensuring a stepwise procedure and the flow of ideas is quite incredible. Going on to particularly outline the percentage of contribution of these antipsychotics allows the reader to ponder and see what the main contributors are. This is vital in the sense that later on in the paper, a likely alternative could be achieved through scrutiny of the major causative agents. The methodological approach in interpretation of the weight gain shows that the research has been done conclusively. Additionally, careful interpretation of the time period over which the weight gain is seen to be prevalent in the subjects as well as when is not so prevalent is approximate though not totally specific. It is sometimes difficult to clearly establish the exact period over which the subjects experience the weight gain and the mention of the key word “approximately” should be used in order to indicate that these are indeed estimates that could change over time. Moreover, there could be additional factors that may affect the results or findings such as climatic or environmental changes. Therefore the interpretation might not be very specific as there should be the mention of some of these factors. Additionally the facts might be biased due to the likely reason that maybe the author might have a conflict of interest over the procedures involved and therefore this cannot be totally ruled out. Under literature, the author should try and invest a little more time on the overview of the study. The background is conclusive though it does not specify the specific ways that the hypothesis aims to achieve. This cannot be pegged on the hypothesis because not much of any recommended questions to be filled in a questionnaire have been mentioned. It is also a good practice to include these questions as they are likely to provide additional information other than what the author will basically achieve. This could be of greater use as they are likely to provide unthinkable yet even more effective measures of achieving what is aimed at in the study. In order to make the article more credible, the author should cite other likely sources other than repetitive use of one prominent source such as (Poulin et al. 2007: 30), who is mentioned more than twice within the article. This is likely to indicate that indicate that the paper has been well researched on and information has been collected from several sources other than maybe two or three sources. If done, the reader is more likely to agree with it especially since most sources can attest true to what the author claims. Citations are very useful in ensuring that the reader is able to clearly relate the research done to other journal references. The author is quick to assume that the statistics of the study are not significant. Though true, this is likely to bring out a waste of time and resources that was intensely invested while setting up and conducting the suggested interventions. The negative approach is likely to discourage a writer from giving the article a look and if true should be mentioned at the end of the paper. It would have been more apt to give the results section an affirmative statement which is somewhat encouraging. Additionally, the author may also be biased on this as they are not likely involved ion conducting the actual intervention experiment. Despite this, providing figures to statistically support the statement shows that the author is well organized and resourceful. The objective of the experiment is significant in allowing the reader to know what to expect. It is especially important for the field of study as it describes the problem that is under investigation. Due to this one is able to likely predict the likely outcome as well as make a probable forecast which could be useful for the study. The experimental methods used to perform the interventions are well described. It is much appealing knowing what to expect. Additional time specifications indicate the accuracy of the results that were obtained. Of more appeal is the detailed manner in which the subject recruitment is done. An experimental randomized design is likely to yield a much better result than a qualitative or causative design. It states the procedural methodology that was involved in the research and the statistics are likely to be considered as better supporting material than mere statements. I therefore highly approve the design that the author appropriately selects for use in the study. This approach is more methodological though might luck in objectivity as compared to the qualitative methods of study design. This is because it is much focused on conducting the experiment and less on discussing and analyzing the results which should be of major focus in the paper. The procedures are well detailed and provide the reader with little time as they read through. With subtitles and explanatory statements, the reader is clearly able to decipher what they are likely to see within the research paper or the study design. However, tabulating for instance the number of figures of participants to include initial number and current numbers would gives a much lesser time trying to remember and comprehend what figures represent exactly what. Generally, I agree with the manner in which the procedures are presented. However, a more specific use of say bullets to show a stepwise methodology would be much appealing. This would clearly indicate what procedure comes after the other. The use of same time and place, type of nurses is also able to give consistent results. This is very much recommended though a different approach of using a different place and nurses could create a better comparison and provide likely alternatives to the research. Statistically, the calculations made so far are correct. However the percentages are mostly estimates and the use of decimal figures when stating the finding would be equally significant and indicate more accuracy I would therefore highly recommend the use of more decimal approximates if the accuracy of the results or the study in general is anything to go by. The use of different statistical methods such as the chi-square distribution, mean and median values, U-test are likely to present much better parameters and allow comparison. It also shows just how much time is invested in ensuring that the figures are correct. They also inspire new heights to a more detailed and reasonable argument eliminating any possibilities of bias or incorrect figures. Within the thesis, the author has been categorical in his approach. It is much easier however to present a thesis with a number of questions that would be included in the questionnaire. This is useful in not only allowing the reader to forecast the expected answers but also have a clear understanding of the study design that is being employed. Featured within the paper, the more methodological approach of including questions also allows the reader time to linger over the data presented and engage in reasonable arguments on whether the hypothesis is apt or not. Specificity somehow lacks within the paper: for instance, under ethical considerations, stating the specific relevant ethics committees is likely to indicate a more specific approach to the study. One would be clearly interested in maybe finding out any additional information if the mention of more specific individuals is included. Additionally, being specific highly enhances reliability and is more intriguing to the reader knowing that the author is a resourceful person. The validity of the author however stands its ground especially in terms of the manner in which he outlines his facts and follows up with supportive evidence. The author is clearly well versed with what should be involved in his paper under instruments. This is why the author is particularly fluent with what to use in testing and creates an impression likely to attract the reader’s attention. Caution however should be exercised so as to actively engage every instrument with its specific use and ensure that it performs its intended purpose. The use of four instruments will definitely guarantee maximum and more accurate results. This is especially commendable as it shows that the author is willing to compare the different methodologies to arrive at their conclusion. The manner in which every instruments yield differently is also commendable and shows the authors interest in ensuring credibility of data. During data analysis, a lot I likely to come into play and affect the accuracy of the data presented. It is therefore an equally good measure to ensure that the data provided is up to date and accurate. This will eliminate any possibilities of bias and allow effective analysis. Most of the tests used for data analysis within the research are convenient and recommendable to provide the most accurate results. However, the Fischer’s exact test that is featured in the data analysis does not feature as a tool used when submitting the results. This is likely to cast a shadow of doubt on just credible the methods are and whether they have actually been used. (Mueser & Becker, 1997: 420). Therefore, the Author needs to somehow mention whether the test has been used anywhere by stating under the results section. Additionally the mention of median values and inter-quartile range is likely to spark some interest to the reader but lack of it under the results section is quite suspicious. Under discussions, the author really takes time to provide the likely rationale behind the lack of significance of the statistics to the result. This is a good measure as the reader is now clearly able to understand exactly why and what could be done to the statistic to make it more relevant. When he goes on to mention that the likely reason can be attributed to somehow the participants weight tendency to have reached a saturation effect, the reader might be confused especially since the age of these subjects is not much. A more significant factor might be the possibility that the weight gain is associated with the anatomy of each individual and probably is not mentioned within the research or fails to appear when investigating other likely causative factors to weight gain in the individuals. This way it would be much easier to enroll the affected participants under say slim-possible program. Additionally, the manner in which exercise is done in order to achieve weight loss is not much effective. I would recommend that the period be extended to about an hour as this will ensure more involvement and the whole period could see more desirable results. Burning extra calories largely depends on the workout and therefore what the subjects are involved after exercise remains of more significance than the mere activity. In order to ensure that the subjects get to burn more calories, they should be actively involved in more activities after the exercise. If implemented, this could be very effective in generating the desirable effects (Torrey, 1997, 422) Most of the information under discussion is significant. The author is particularly appropriate when he recommends the use of multi-modal approaches such as education, healthy lifestyle, and exercises as a long term measure towards weight loss. Additionally, the reader will attest that the mention of a number of approaches the author associates to weight gain is also relevant to put under research. This is an insight that could see achievement of far-reaching results than the expected and predictable ones. These approaches should not be merely mentioned especially exercised but overemphasized to capture the reader’s attention (Mercer-McFadde, 1998: 34). The article in its entirety is visually appealing especially in the manner in which it is structured. However, once the hypothesis has been stated, it is only necessary to include only the relevant typical sub titles under the hypothesis. I would also recommend that areas that need more emphasis be expanded. Particularly, I feel that the author could a little more on the hypothesis and remain relevant on the background so that it is not long and tends to overemphasize irrelevance I would recommend that the analysis section is convenient though mention of irrelevant tests such as inter-quartile range and medians together with Fischer’s exact test could be omitted if at all the are not mentioned in the results section (Moon, Allison Gayle, 2013: 54). The results section is too big and tends to occupy too much space within the article. I would recommend that if there is a way in which the author could condense the section so as to have at least three tables, this would be more appealing to the reader in terms of reference. The lesser the number of tables the easier it is for the reader to make reference on the topic. Instead the main area of concern should be a focus on the alternative approaches the author suggests to deal with weight gain. As long as the ideas in the discussion section are clearly spelt out, many readers would not mind the section being a little longer. The article is apt for a variety of readers of any social status and especially so those intending to do a research on the effects of a related study and further this study. The methodology could also be adopted and be used to carry out a study of similar kind especially the data analysis and instruments are of invaluable significance. The vast information of facts such as the diseases that contribute to medical syndrome is a clear indicator that the author is a resourceful person and has invested a lot of time to conduct his research (Rodnick, 2008: 79). The sample size used in the data, coincidentally, is really apt for the data analysis. The calculation of mean and median can easily be calculated as most are much easier with an even number. The number 101 is also a small a sample and therefore calculating the percentages among other calculations such chi-squared distributions are simple to calculate. It is recommended that small samples are used as they allow more accurate values to be easily done. The control sample however does not achieve much comparison since the statistic is unfortunately of little significance. This makes the control experiment a total waste of time and though used in comparison, the factors involved should be investigated to ensure they are the time and resources spent (Dixon, 2009:34). There research is commendable as it is unique in a number of ways. What makes it more unique is the use of different instruments for collection of data. Additionally, even if it is duplicated elsewhere, the methodologies used for data analysis will vary greatly. This is the reason why the research stands its ground. The author is also categorical to ensure that he employs a variety of unique and sophisticated procedures to perform his intervention, collect data and analyze the results (Taylor, 2011: 98). I agree that the research done is extensive and has been done with a clear view of the subject matter. Another form of uniqueness is evidently the manner in which the participants are vetted to conduct the intervention. The author receives credibility in the manner in which the work is clearly outlined. The stepwise manner in which the study is done is agreeable to the normal standards that most research papers take in order o clearly achieve or clearly elaborate the hypothesis. The author takes time to clearly introduce the paper and also build on it using the background information. The procedural methodology that is adopted to evaluate the participants of the intervention program is very elaborate. This clearly shows that not only research is up to task but the participants might be bias, much has been done to ensure the bias is minimal and that the characters involved are competent. This allows the reader to make conclusive and tangible statements in their final paragraph (Mukherji, 2008: 32). The paper can be summarized in a number of ways. I agree with the author’s view of the subject matter and clearly understanding of facts. The author is able to clearly present his hypothesis and follow up with a random experimental design. The design is particularly objective as it is able to clearly outline the stepwise procedure that will be followed and stipulate the time period in which the intervention is to be conducted. Additionally, the author is categorical in the methods he uses for data collection and analysis The author is also on point in the manner in which he presents his argument. He is categorical in the manner in which he builds on his discussion and interpretation of facts. I tend to agree with the author in most of the discussion especially due the credible information he provides to support his arguments. It also indicates a better understanding and clear representation of facts. The author’s active in alternative approaches he suggests be employed in the intervention procedure hold value (Meltzer, 2008: 45). They should be adopted and given time to see whether they could be significant use to the whole hypothesis maybe in future. Other than the few instances I tend to slightly disagree with the authors point of view, the paper is clearly done correctly and highly commendable. One last agree is the time period that is allowed for the intervention procedure. Over a much period of time, the experiment will be able to generate more credible and reliable information Reference List Albon, Deborah, and Penny Mukherji (2008). 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Svendsen, Dale, Patricia Singer, Mary Ellen Foti, and B. Mauer. Morbidity and mortality in people with serious mental illness. Alexandria, VA: National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD) Medical Directors Council, 2006. Read More