Feasibility and acceptability of a randomized controlled trial to investigate withdrawal symptoms in response to caffeinated sugary drink cessation among children.

Background: Sugary drinks (SDs) are key contributors to excess added sugar intake and the predominant source of caffeine among children. Chronic caffeine intake causes dependence, and evidence for sugar dependence is emerging. Development of withdrawal symptoms may pose an obstacle to SD cessation among children.

Admission characteristics and academic performance of podiatric and osteopathic medical students at Des Moines University.

Background: Podiatric and osteopathic medical students at Des Moines University take the same basic science medical curriculum. The first course students complete is medical biochemistry. The final common course is the second-year medical pharmacology course.

Admission characteristics and academic performance of podiatric and osteopathic medical students at Des Moines University.

In this study, the admissions data and initial academic performance of osteopathic medical students were significantly statistically higher than that of podiatric medical students at Des Moines University. Once attrition occurred in year one, the academic performance between these groups of medical students was no longer statistically significant and can be considered comparable. The challenge for podiatric medicine is to increase the applicant-to-seat ratio and admit classes with admissions qualifications similar to other health professions.