Dietetic Research Research Articles

Inclusion and Diversity in Public Health, Nutrition and Dietetics Research.

The proliferation of current technology and the adoption of liberal open-access principles have resulted in a significant growth in the volume of data generated across all sectors. This data needs to be stored in specialized databases to support the speedy and accelerated global development concept. It is the responsibility of the researchers to provide evidence that convinces the publishers that the results of their research are deserving of public attention. Diversity determines the level of inclusion, while inclusion determines the scope and substance of diversity. The concerns of inclusion and diversity in research related to public health, nutrition, and dietetics are of utmost importance and require effective management. Furthermore, diversity is influenced by inclusion, and it serves as the essential foundation for long-term and sustainable development. This review extensively discusses various issues such as article selection rejection, partialities, retention, consistency, consortia and inclusiveness, skewed database, data transfer, strategic leadership, collective responsibility, quota, discouragement, and motivation. The primary objective is to highlight inclusion and diversity as a special topic in sustainable national development.

Development and Sustainability: the role of Public Health, Nutrition and Dietetics Research. Special Journal of Public Health, Nutrition and Dietetics

Modifications that cater to our current needs should not disrupt the capacity of our offspring to fulfill their necessities in the future. Development and sustainability refer to any process that results in a substantial and quantifiable impact on the growth, advancement, and alteration of the physical, economic, environmental, and social aspects of a system. This review thoroughly examines the role and impact of research in Public Health, Nutrition, and Dietetics on development and sustainability.The importance of developing and sustaining research in Public Health, Nutrition, and Dietetics cannot be overstated due to the diverse nature of our society and the evolving difficulties we face. Research databases in the fields of public health, nutrition, and dietetics can greatly contribute to our understanding of how to effectively identify, utilize, and manage our natural resources with minimal reliance on external sources. This, in turn, will have a substantial impact on achieving sustainable development goals. The Special Journal of Public Health, Nutrition, and Dietetics Research, published by the Special Journal publisher, was established to address these deficiencies.

CFDR Research Showcase, Early Bird Abstracts

Due to the cancellation of the Dietitians of Canada (DC) conference for 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Research Showcase was not able to be held as planned in Saskatoon in June 2020. Ten of the Early Bird abstracts were presented as Lightning Rounds during the virtual DC conference that was held in June and July, 2020. All 25 Early Bird abstracts are published in this issue of the Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research and are also posted on the CFDR website . These abstracts represent a wide variety of practice-based nutrition research projects in Canada. The Early Bird abstract research event would not be possible without the commitment and dedication of many people. On behalf of DC and CFDR, we extend a special thank you to members of our abstract review committee: Susan Campisi (University of Toronto); Elaine Cawadias (Retired); Pauline Darling (University of Ottawa); Andrea Glenn (St. Francis Xavier University); Mahsa Jessri (University of British Columbia); Jessica Lieffers (University of Saskatchewan); Shelley Vanderhout (University of Toronto). Thanks also to the moderators for the Lightning Round presentations in the virtual DC conference. Finally, thanks also to the DC Conference team for their support with the Lightning Round presentations over the course of the DC virtual conference. Christina Lengyel PhD RD Chair, 2020 Early Bird Committee Associate Professor Director of the Dietetics Program Human Nutritional Sciences University of Manitoba Janis Randall Simpson PhD RD FDC FCNS Professor Emerita University of Guelph Executive Director, CFDR

Using the Delphi process to identify priorities for Dietetic research in Australia 2020-2030.

This research aimed to use a consensus process to develop a framework and definition for nutrition and dietetic research, and to identify dietetic research priorities for Australia for the period 2020 to 2030. A three-round Delphi process was selected to enable dietitians with demonstrated research expertise to contribute to the national priority development. All Fellows of the Dietitians Association of Australia, Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitians and research leaders were invited to participate (n = 84). The questionnaire was distributed electronically using a 7-point Likert scale. Rounds 1 and 2 asked participants to comment on the proposed research framework, definition of dietetic research and to rate a set of priorities categorised within seven themes. Fields were available for comments for revisions to each section. Approval was considered when ≥70% of participants ranked priorities as Agree or Strongly agree. In Round 3, participants were asked to rank the resultant priorities within themes. Through this Delphi process, Australian dietitians with demonstrated expertise contributed to and confirmed a framework and definition for dietetic Research. A ranked list of 15 priorities within five themes for dietetic Research in Australia for the period 2020-2030 was developed: Healthy ageing; Vulnerable populations; Food systems and health/nutrition promotion; Informatics and evidence based practice and Achieving a balance between prevention and treatment approaches. It is anticipated that results will lead to the development of a research strategy to focus future dietetic research efforts, including the development of professional position papers as well as informing research competencies for dietetic education.

Numeric and Traffic Light Calorie Labels on Cafeteria Menus: Noticing, Use, and Perceptions Among Young Adults

Abstract Objectives The objective of this study was to examine the impact of numeric versus interpretive calorie labelling on consumer noticing, use, and perceptions of labels. We hypothesized that due to their at-a-glance format, interpretive labels would outperform numeric labels. Methods Using a pre-post quasi-experimental controlled trial design, three campus cafeterias were randomized to receive numeric calorie labelling, traffic light labelling (i.e., red, amber, or green symbol indicating the number of calories), or no labelling for two weeks. Exit surveys were conducted with cafeteria patrons prior to (n = 949) and following (n = 1110) implementation of labels. Surveys queried sociodemographic characteristics, the details of the most recent cafeteria purchase, and noticing, use, and perceptions of labels. Chi-squared tests and multinomial logistic regression were used to determine the impact of format on label noticing, use, and perceptions. Results Label noticing increased from 23% to 43% among those exposed to numeric labels and 28% to 63% among those exposed to traffic light labels, compared to no change in the control (15%) (P < 0.05). Among those who noticed labels, a higher proportion (66%) of those in the traffic light condition reported using the labels to inform their purchase compared to the numeric (50%) and control (50%) conditions (P < 0.05). Scores for perceived ease of use and understanding of the labels were high at both labelling sites. Compared to the pre-test period, there was a slight increase (6%) in the proportion of people who indicated traffic light labels were easy to use and understand versus no change in perceptions at the numeric and control sites (P > 0.05). Conclusions Cafeteria patrons exposed to calorie labels reported noticing and using them, with higher salience for traffic light labels. The implementation of such interpretive labels at the point-of-purchase may provide cues to enable consumers to make informed choices, consistent with front-of-pack labels on packaged foods under consideration in many jurisdictions. Funding Sources Kirsten Lee is funded by an Ontario Graduate Scholarship. This study is funded by the Canadian Foundation for Dietetic Research and an Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation Early Researcher Award held by Sharon Kirkpatrick.

Healthy Eating and Active Living for Diabetes-Glycemic Index (HEALD-GI): A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Objectives Rigorous evidence is needed to support uptake of recommendations to include low glycemic index (GI) foods in daily meal planning as an effective dietary self-care strategy for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We evaluated the effectiveness of a 12-week web-based GI-targeted nutrition education intervention on dietary intakes and GI-related knowledge among adults with T2D. Methods Participants were randomized to a control group (n = 34) that received standard printed copies of Canada's Food Guide and Diabetes Canada's GI resources or an intervention group (n = 33) that received those same materials, plus an online platform with six self-directed learning modules and supplementary print material. Each module consisted of a customized video, links to reliable websites, chat rooms, and quizzes. Evidence-based GI concept information included GI values of foods and advice for low-GI shopping, recipes, and cooking tips by a Registered Dietitian. Preferred supports through email, text messaging, phone calls, or postal mail to reinforce participants’ learning were also provided. The primary outcome, average daily dietary GI intake, was assessed using 3-day food records. Additional measures including GI knowledge and self-efficacy, glycated hemoglobin A1c, lipids, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, and computer proficiency, were assessed at baseline and at three months post-intervention. Results Participants (N = 67) were 64% men; mean (standard deviation [SD]) age 69.5 (9.3) years, with mean diabetes duration of 19.0 (13.7) years, BMI 30.1 (5.7) kg/m2 and A1c 7.1 (1.2)% at baseline. Mean daily GI intake decreased in the intervention group by 2.79 (7.77) compared to a 0.76 (6.48) increase in the control group (adjusted mean difference [95% CI]; −3.77 [−6.95, −0.58]). Mean GI knowledge 2.14 [0.59, 3.69], understanding of GI concept 1.65 [0.85, 2.44] and self-efficacy for consuming low-GI foods 1.29 [0.51, 2.07] increased among the intervention group (P < 0.01) compared with the control group. Conclusions Web-based GI-targeted education program improved the quality of carbohydrate consumption among adults with T2D and may have been mediated through increases in knowledge and self-efficacy. Web-based nutrition education may be an effective alternative in this population. Funding Sources Canadian Foundation for Dietetic Research.

The Implementation of Eating Healthy Program in Early Childhood


 
 
 Eating habits develop during the first years of a child's life, children learn what, when, and how much to eat through direct experience with food and by observing the eating habits of others. The aim of this study is to get a clear picture of the Eating program Healthy, starting from the planning, implementation, supervision, and evaluation as a case study of nutrition education; to get information about the advantages, disadvantages and effects of implementing a healthy eating program for children. This research was conducted through a case study with qualitative data analysed using Miles and Huberman techniques. Sample of children in Ananda Islāmic School Kindergarten. The results showed the Healthy Eating program could be implemented well, the diet was quite varied and could be considered a healthy and nutritious food. The visible impact is the emotion of pleasure experienced by children, children become fond of eating vegetables, and make children disciplined and responsible. Inadequate results were found due to the limitations of an adequate kitchen for cooking healthy food, such as cooking activities still carried out by the cook himself at the Foundation's house which is located not far from the school place; use of melamine and plastic cutlery for food; the spoon and fork used already uses aluminium material but still does not match its size; does not involve nutritionists.
 Keywords: Early Childhood, Eating Healthy Program

Crowdsourcing: A Critical Reflection on This New Frontier of Participant Recruiting in Nutrition and Dietetics Research

Crowdsourcing: A Critical Reflection on This New Frontier of Participant Recruiting in Nutrition and Dietetics Research

CFDR Research Showcase, Early Bird Abstracts: June 6, 2019

Through the support of Dietitians of Canada (DC) and the Canadian Foundation for Dietetic Research (CFDR), the 2019 Research Showcase at the DC conference represented a wide variety of practice-based nutrition research projects in Canada. The 2019 Research Showcase consisted of several new elements this year. Early Bird abstracts were considered for either oral or oral ePoster sessions. New this year was the presentation of 11 Early Bird abstracts as oral presentations within the regular conference sessions: we called these “Lightning Rounds”. The remaining 27 Early Bird abstracts were presented as oral ePosters on June 6, 2019; authors presented their research in 2–3 minutes plus 2 minutes for questions, using their ePosters. For 2019, there were 3 concurrent oral ePoster sessions. All accepted, and presented, abstracts from the Early Bird submission are published in the Journal. This research event would not be possible without the commitment and dedication of many people. On behalf of DC and CFDR, we extend a special thank you to members of our abstract review committee: Susan Campisi (University of Toronto); Elaine Cawadias (Retired); Andrea Glenn (St. Francis Xavier University); Brenda Hartman (Brescia College, Western University) Mahsa Jessri (University of Ottawa); and Jessica Lieffers (University of Alberta). Thanks also to our moderators for the Oral ePosters: Barb Anderson (Acadian University); Jane Bellman (Dietitians of Canada); Brenda Hartman (Brescia College, Western University); Jessica Lieffers (University of Alberta); Dawna Royall (Dietitians of Canada); and Lee Rysdale (Northern Ontario School of Medicine). We enjoyed interacting with many of you at the oral research presentations as we highlighted the findings from our dietetic colleagues across our country! Finally, a special thank you to Gareth Willows Tribe and Michelle Naraine at CFDR for their assistance and support throughout the review process. Christina Lengyel, PhD, RD Chair, 2019 Early Bird Committee Associate Professor Director of the Dietetics Program Human Nutritional Sciences University of Manitoba Janis Randall Simpson, PhD, RD, FDC Chair, 2019 Late Breaking Committee Professor Emerita University of Guelph Executive Director, CFDR

Knowledge Translation and Evidence-Based Practice: A Qualitative Study on Clinical Dietitians’ Perceptions and Practices in Switzerland

BackgroundKnowledge translation (KT) in health care is essential to promote quality of care and reduce the knowledge-to-practice gap. Little is known about KT among dietitians, and a better understanding of how this process pans out is fundamental to support their clinical practice. ObjectiveTo explore clinical dietitians’ perceptions and practices concerning preferences and access to information sources in clinical practice, KT activities, research in nutrition and dietetics, and evidence-based practice (EBP). Design, participants, and settingEight interviews and two focus groups involving a total of 15 participants were conducted in 2013 among members of the Swiss Association for Registered Dietitians in the French- and German-speaking regions of Switzerland. Analysis performedThematic analysis drawn from a constructivist grounded theory approach. ResultsInformation from colleagues and experts of the field were favored when facing unfamiliar situations in clinical practice. Critically selecting evidence-based information was considered challenging, but dietitians declared they were at ease to integrate patients’ preferences and values, and their clinical expertise and judgment, in decision making, which are fundamental elements of EBP. A major reported barrier to KT was the perception that time to identify and read scientific literature was not expected during working hours and that instead, this time should be spent in clinical activities with patients. On the other hand, dietitians identified that their frequent involvement in educational activities such as knowledge dissemination or tailoring favored the integration of evidence into practice. Finally, dietitians struggled more to identify evidence-based information about counseling and communication than about biomedical knowledge. ConclusionsDietitians mentioned being involved in each step of the KT process (ie, synthesis, dissemination, exchange, and ethically sound application of knowledge). Barriers and facilitators identified in this study need to be explored in a larger population to develop strategies to facilitate KT and EBP in dietetics practice.

Weight, Length, and Head Circumference Z-scores at 36 Weeks Are Not Accurate in Predicting Neurodevelopmental Impairment in Preterm Infants Less Than 30 Weeks Gestation (P11-062-19)

ObjectivesThe association between poor growth and neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) among preterm infants is well-established whether due to inadequate nutrition, adverse events or both. The present study assessed the diagnostic accuracy of 36-week anthropometric measures, including corresponding < 10th and < 3rd percentile cut points to predict NDI in preterm infants. MethodsThis study included data from the PreM Growth Cohort Study for preterm infants < 30 weeks of gestational age (GA) and birth weights < 1500 grams. The accuracy with which measured weight, length and head circumference z-scores can predict cognitive impairment (Bayley-III Cognitive Composite score < 80) at 21 months corrected age (born in 2005–2014) and intellectual impairment (Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence-3rd and 4th Edition (Intellectual test) score < 70) at 3-years corrected age (born in 2001–2014) was determined by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). ResultsAt 21 months 98/621 (15.8%) of infants had low Bayley scores and 57/613 (9.3%) had low Intellectual test scores at 3 years. None of the AUROCs exceeded 0.6 and none were significantly different from 0.5. Sensitivities and specificities for the 10th and 3rd percentile cut points were equally poor, with most not exceeding 70% (Figures). The findings were similar between the Fenton 2013 and INTERGROWTH 2015 growth charts. The addition of morbidities increased the accuracy of predicting cognitive impairments except for infants with cerebral palsy, other morbidities had relatively marginal associations with impairment. ConclusionsPreterm infant measures of weight, length, and head circumference z-scores at 36 weeks, including corresponding < 10th and < 3rd percentile cut points, are not accurate as predictors of NDI. This study confirms previous findings that preterm infants show some “catch up” in weight relative to growth references between 37–44 weeks GA. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03064022 Funding SourcesCanadian Foundation for Dietetic Research. Supporting Tables, Images and/or Graphs▪▪

Determining Nutritional Barriers to Access to Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains in Older Americans

The University of the District of Columbia is a partner of the Northeast Hatch Multistate Research Collaborative. This research project, known as the UDC NE 1439, was designed as a pilot study to determine the barriers that prevented the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains among older adults in Wards 5, 7, and 8 in the District of Columbia (DC). The residents of these wards have been shown to have higher rates of chronic diseases. Data shows that Ward 7 has the highest rate of deaths due to diabetes. Furthermore, Wards 5, 7, and 8 have the highest percentage of hypertension and diabetes This project used a quantitative and qualitative survey instrument, which included 53 questions and/or statements using a Likert scale: demographics (8 questions); household information (2 questions); shopping habits (8 questions); eating habits, including the identity of the person who prepared meals in the home (21 questions); physical fitness (11 questions); and policy (3 questions). Ninety-six (96) older adults participated in the survey, with a gender distribution of 77% female (68 individuals), 22% male (24 individuals), and 1% not reported (1 individual). The racial distribution of the participants was 91% (87) African American, .01% (one) Asian American, .01% (one) Caucasian, .01% (one) Native American, and .03% (three) others/not reported. Additionally, according to the participants’ residency results, Ward 5 accounted for 23% of the participants (24 participants), Ward 7 for 38% (33 participants), and Ward 8 for 38% (33 participants). The participants’ average age was ≥ 56, (45 to 76 and over) and most were the primary financial supporters of their households and the primary grocery shoppers in their families. In conclusion, this project determined that access to fresh fruits and vegetables and travel time to a full-service grocer were less prominent barriers; this was an unexpected finding. Though the participants indicated sufficient access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, they lacked nutrition-based knowledge. Many of them viewed unfitting food choices as healthy. An intervention centered on nutrition education using food demonstrations and grocer tours would improve nutrition knowledge in this population. This offered these nutrition and dietetics research assistants with an opportunity to provide nutrition education to the population in question. Moreover, it presents an opportunity to extend nutrition education to all seniors across the Washington, DC region. KEYWORDS: Fruits; Vegetables; Whole Grains; Urban; Disease; African American; Health; Nutrition; Food Security; Food Desert, Senior Citizens

Dietetic Research Event: June 7 and 8, 2018.

Vancouver, British Columbia was the host city of the 2018 Dietitians of Canada Annual Conference. Through the support of Dietitians of Canada (DC) and Canadian Foundation for Dietetic Research (CFDR), the 2018 Research Showcase was an informative exchange of research and experience-sharing efforts. The submissions for this year's CFDR event represented the diversity of dietetic research conducted within Canada. The 2018 Research Showcase highlighted the Early Bird abstracts in 2 formats; some as 10 minutes oral sessions and others as ePosters with a short oral component. The Late Breaking abstracts were displayed as ePosters. This research event would not be possible without the commitment and dedication of many people. On behalf of DC and CFDR, we would like to extend a special thank you to members of our Early Bird abstract review committee: Susan Campisi (University of Toronto); Elaine Cawadias (Retired); Andrea Glenn (St. Francis Xavier University); Mahsa Jessri (University of Ottawa); Jessica Lieffers (University of Saskatchewan). Members of the Late Breaking abstract review committee included: Laurie Drozdowski (University of Alberta); Laura Forbes (Co-chair)(University of Guelph); Joann Herridge (Hospital for Sick Children); Grace Lee (Toronto General Hospital); Lee Rysdale (Northern Ontario School of Medicine); Jessica Wegener (Ryerson University); Sarah Woodruff Atkinson (University of Windsor). We would also like to thank all of our moderators, Pierrette Buklis (CFDR Board), Marcia Cooper (Health Canada), Jenny Gusba (CFDR Board), Brenda Hartman (Brescia College), Paula Brauer (University of Guelph), Dawna Royall (DC), and MaryAnne Smith (DC), who kept our research presentation sessions on time during the conference. Finally, a special thank you to France Bertrand and Michelle Naraine at CFDR for their assistance and support throughout the review process. We enjoyed interacting with many of you at the oral research presentations as we highlighted the research findings from our dietetic colleagues across our country! Christina Lengyel, PhD, RD Chair, 2018 Early Bird Abstracts Review Committee Associate Professor Director of the Dietetics Program Food and Human Nutritional Sciences University of Manitoba Janis Randall Simpson, PhD, RD, FDC Chair, 2018 Late Breaking Abstracts Review Committee Professor Emerita University of Guelph Executive Director, CFDR.

Ethnography in Nutrition and Dietetics Research: A Systematic Review

Ethnography is a qualitative research approach used to learn about people and their culture. There is a need to explore the application and use of ethnographic methodology in nutrition and dietetics research to inform future research and practice. Our aim was to examine the extent, range, nature, and contribution of ethnographic methodology in nutrition and dietetics research. Eight electronic databases were searched using a defined search strategy until November 2017. No restrictions were placed on language, date, or study design of original research. Two authors independently assessed titles and abstracts, then full-text records, against inclusion criteria. Hand-searching of reviews identified in the database search was undertaken. Quality assessment was conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Data were described narratively. A total of 2,185 records were identified, with 92 studies from public health nutrition (n=72), clinical nutrition (n=13), and foodservice (n=7) practice areas meeting inclusion criteria. Common research areas included infant/child feeding, food choice, diabetes, nutrition in schools and food insecurity. In addition to observation, frequently reported data collection techniques were interview (n=85), focus groups (n=17), and document analysis (n=10). Ethnographic research was most often reported from North America (n=31), Europe (n=16), and Australia/Oceania (n=13). This research approach was shown to inform dietetic research and practice by illuminating sociocultural factors that influence dietary beliefs and practices, practitioner training opportunities, evaluating nutrition education methods, informing programs and interventions, identifying nutrition policy and guideline focus areas, and the need for new approaches and communication strategies. Ethnography can increase understanding of complex food and nutrition–related health issues and their contributing factors across public health nutrition, foodservice, and clinical dietetic practice. It can be used to explain health inequalities, direct policy, and inform more effective intervention design and delivery. Wider uptake of this research approach as a stand-alone or complementary study design will advance efforts to improve health and wellbeing through food and nutrition.

Patients' perceptions and experiences of patient‐centred care in dietetic consultations

Patient-centred care (PCC) is essential to quality healthcare. However, there is a paucity of research on PCC in dietetics, particularly regarding patients' experiences and perspectives of PCC. We aimed to enhance our understanding of PCC in dietetics by exploring patients' perceptions and experiences of PCC in individual dietetic consultations. The present study used qualitative methods, situated in a constructivist-interpretivist paradigm. Maximum variation purposive sampling was used to recruit English speaking adult participants who had participated in ≥1 dietetic consultations for nutrition care. Individual semi-structured interviews explored participants' perceptions and experiences of PCC in dietetic consultations. Data were analysed thematically. Eleven patients were interviewed between September and November 2016. Four overarching themes emerged: (i) fostering and maintaining caring relationships; (ii) delivering individualised care; (iii) enabling patient involvement; and (iv) taking control of one's own health. PCC is important to patients. Thus, there is opportunity for dietitians to enhance the care they provide by adopting patient-centred practices. As the first study of its kind, these findings can inform future dietetic practice, education and research by contributing patients' perspectives of PCC. By understanding patients' unique needs and preferences, dietitians can better align their practice with a patient-centred approach. Furthermore, these findings are useful for informing future dietetic research and education.

Abstracts from Dietetic Research Event: June 8 and 9, 2017.

St John's, Newfoundland was the host city of the 2017 Dietitians of Canada Annual Conference. Through the support of Dietitians of Canada and CFDR, the 2017 event was both an exciting and informative exchange of research and experience-sharing efforts that inspired attendees. The submissions for this year's Canadian Foundation for Dietetic Research (CFDR) event represented the diversity of dietetic research conducted within Canada. The topics highlighted from this year's abstracts included: Clinical Research; Community-based Nutritional Care; Determinants of Food Choice; Dietary Intake; Dietetic Practice and Education; Food Security; Nutrition and Health Education; Nutritional Assessment and Therapy; Nutrition Attitudes; Nutrition Strategy Development Patient Services; Professional Development; Vulnerable Groups and their Nutritional Needs; and, Wellness and Public Health. Each presenter provided an 11-minute oral presentation (8 minutes for presenting and 3 minutes for questions). This allowed for meaningful interaction between the presenters and those attending the sessions. These presentations offered the newest insights into important research findings that apply to dietetic practice. Attendance at the research presentations was approximately 200 and 125 on June 9 and 10, respectively. This research event would not be possible without the commitment and dedication of many people. On behalf of DC and CFDR, we would like to extend a special thank you to members of our abstract review committee: Susan Campisi (University of Toronto); Elaine Cawadias (Dietitian, Retired); Andrea Glenn (St. Francis Xavier University); Mahsa Jessri (University of Ottawa); Jessica Lieffers (University of Alberta); and Janet Madill (Brescia College). We would also like to thank all of our moderators, Jane Bellman (DC), Pierrette Buklis (CFDR Board), Marcia Cooper (Health Canada), Jenny Gusba (CFDR Board), Brenda Hartman (Brescia College), Sarah Hewko (CFDR Board Chair), Lisa Mina (CFDR Board), Misty Rossiter (University of Prince Edward Island), Lee Rysdale (Northern Ontario School of Medicine), Pat Vanderkooy (DC), and Heather Wile (CFDR Board), who kept our research presentation sessions on time during the conference. Finally, a special thank you to Janis Randall Simpson and Michelle Naraine at CFDR for their assistance and support throughout the review process. I enjoyed interacting with many of you at the oral research presentations as we highlighted the findings from our dietetic colleagues across our country! Christina Lengyel, PhD, RD Chair, 2017 Abstracts Review Committee Associate Professor Director of the Dietetics Program Foods & Human Nutritional Sciences University of Manitoba.

Nutrition and Health editorial: How to present and interpret research findings in nutrition and dietetics research.

Nutrition and Health editorial: How to present and interpret research findings in nutrition and dietetics research.

Outcomes of Undergraduate Dietetics Research Education

Describe the process for using validated tools, based on social cognitive career theory, to evaluate the outcomes of undergraduate dietetics research education.

Understanding the role of patient and public involvement in renal dietetic research

The objective was to consult patients on a proposed recruitment strategy to a patient and public involvement exercise. We wanted to explore the reasoning and willingness of patients to become co-researchers within a grant application. Eighteen people using the renal health service informed the consultation by action research so that their experiences could be used to guide the overall methodology. Twelve people took part in semi-structured interviews. NVIVO 10 and Framework Analysis were used to interpret emerging themes from the data. The recruitment strategy, informed by research expertise, became an experience-based expert design. The design took into account the limitations of attendance, the informational and physical needs of these service users. Service users wanted to share their experiences with people who would listen and were in a position to help make the changes. This gave them a sense of purpose and autonomy in their treatment and helped them cope with living with renal disease in society. However, feelings of doubt as to whether they could personally ‘make a difference’ as a co-researcher, were common. Consulting service users enabled the research team to recruit more people to interviews to explore motivation considering the unique personal and social needs of this service user group. Service users may need additional and continued support if they are to successfully take part in a clinical study research advisory group.

Crossover Designs in Nutrition and Dietetics Research

This article is the 12th installment in a statistical series exploring the importance of research design, epidemiologic methods, and statistical analysis as applied to nutrition and dietetics research. The purpose of this series is to assist registered dietitian nutritionists in interpreting nutrition research and aid nutrition researchers in applying scientific principles to produce high-quality nutrition research. This article focuses on the use of crossover designs in nutrition and dietetics research. The purpose is to distinguish the crossover design from the randomized clinical trial, define important terms, illustrate a 2×2 crossover design, discuss potential confounding variables in the crossover design, describe the analysis and interpretation of crossover data, present sample size considerations, provide examples of the use of the crossover design in nutrition and dietetics, and discuss additional considerations when the independent variable has more than two levels.