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Ayer — Diciembre 16th 2025Interdisciplinares

Effect of diet on cognition, mental health and wellbeing among adolescents: protocol for a systematic review

Por: Coombes · J. P. · Murphy · M. · Russell · A. · Turner · A. · Pallan · M.
Introduction

A healthy diet is a crucial component for adolescents’ health and wellbeing. Current literature surrounding dietary intake and its effect on cognition, mental health and wellbeing has mainly focused on children, not adolescents. This review aims to synthesise findings from studies that explore the relationship between dietary intake and cognition, mental health and wellbeing in the adolescent population.

Methods and analysis

Electronic searches will date from 1 January 2000 to 7 October 2024 and will be conducted in CENTRAL, MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL via EBSCOHOST, ERIC, British Education Index, Child and Adolescent Studies, Education research complete, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection, Social Policy and Practice Embase, and APAPsychINFO via OvidSP. Articles will be screened using defined inclusion and exclusion criteria and assessed for eligibility by five independent reviewers. Discrepancies will be reviewed by a third reviewer. The selection process of included articles will be reported by using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flow diagram. A narrative summary will be used to report and synopsise the extracted data.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review does not require ethical approval. The dissemination strategy for this review comprises peer-reviewed publications, public health conference presentations and providing a valuable reference for healthy-food interventions in school and community-based settings as well as identifying gaps in the current literature and informing policy and practice.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42025633083.

AnteayerInterdisciplinares

Financial catastrophe and its associated factors among chronic kidney disease patients undergoing haemodialysis in Kathmandu, Nepal: a mixed-method study

Por: Poudel · S. · Yadav · D. K. · Khanal · V. K. · Nepal Gurung · G. · Pokhrel · S. · Pudasaini · A. · Amatya · A. G.
Objective

The study aimed to assess the prevalence of financial catastrophe and explore patients’ perceived effectiveness of the government support programme related to chronic kidney disease.

Design

Cross-sectional mixed-method study.

Participants

A total of 120 patients receiving free regular haemodialysis under the government’s Deprived Citizen Support Programme for at least 6 months were included in the quantitative study, and 9 patients participated in the qualitative study.

Main outcome measures

Prevalence of financial catastrophe and factors associated with financial catastrophe among chronic kidney disease patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Methods

A convergent parallel mixed-method approach was carried out from 15 June to 15 December 2024, among chronic kidney disease patients undergoing haemodialysis at the National Kidney Center. Quantitative data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. Financial catastrophe was defined as out-of-pocket (OOP) healthcare payments ≥40% of a household’s disposable income, following the WHO-recommended threshold for severe financial burden. OOP expenditures were assessed over 6 months, and associations were tested using 2 and binary logistic regression at a 95% CI in SPSS V.25.0. For the qualitative arm, in-depth interviews were conducted with nine purposively selected patients, and inductive thematic analysis was applied to explore the perceived effectiveness of the government support programme. The quantitative and qualitative findings were then integrated to achieve convergence and divergence, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the extent and context of financial hardship among patients.

Results

The prevalence of financial catastrophe was 72.5%. The factors associated with financial catastrophe were the presence of complications (adjusted OR (AOR): 3.67, 95% CI 1.019 to 13.27), patients without financial support (AOR: 2.77, 95% CI 1.016 to 7.56) and reduction in food expenses (AOR: 0.313, 95% CI 0.109 to 0.896). Qualitative findings on awareness regarding government subsidies, financial strain, barriers to receiving treatment and perceived effectiveness of the programme revealed key aspects of utilisation and effectiveness of the government support programme.

Conclusion

The prevalence of financial catastrophe was substantially high, which highlights the importance of addressing economic challenges in chronic kidney disease care. The study emphasised the need to strengthen financial protection through the expansion of government subsidies and improved insurance coverage.

Digital App for Speech and Health Monitoring Study (DASH): protocol for a prospective longitudinal case-control observational study for developing speech datasets in neurodegenerative disorders and dementia

Por: Tam · J. · Weaver · C. · Ihenacho · A. · Newton · J. · Virgo · B. · Barrett · S. · Neale · J. · Perry · D. · Smith · A. · Chandran · S. · Watts · O. · Pal · S. · DASH Consortium · Ali · Baxter · Bozkhurt · Burr · Chandran · Chau · Clancy · Coupland · Devon · Entwistle-Thompson · Gardiner
Introduction

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) represent an unprecedented public health burden. These disorders are clinically heterogeneous and therapeutically challenging, but advances in discovery science and trial methodology offer hope for translation to new treatments. Against this background, there is an urgent unmet need for biomarkers to aid with early and accurate diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring throughout the care pathway and in clinical trials.

Investigations routinely used in clinical care and trials are often invasive, expensive, time-consuming, subjective and ordinal. Speech data represent a potentially scalable, non-invasive, objective and quantifiable digital biomarker that can be acquired remotely and cost-efficiently using mobile devices, and analysed using state-of-the-art speech signal processing and machine learning approaches. This prospective case–control observational study of multiple NDDs aims to deliver a deeply clinically phenotyped longitudinal speech dataset to facilitate development and evaluation of speech biomarkers.

Methods and analysis

People living with dementia, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease are eligible to participate. Healthy individuals (including relatives or carers of participants with neurological disease) are also eligible to participate as controls. Participants complete a study app with standardised speech recording tasks (including reading, free speech, picture description and verbal fluency tasks) and patient-reported outcome measures of quality of life and mood (EuroQol-5 Dimension-5 Level, Patient Health Questionnaire 2) every 2 months at home or in clinic. Participants also complete disease severity scales, cognitive screening tests and provide optional samples for blood-based biomarkers at baseline and then 6-monthly. Follow-up is scheduled for up to 24 months. Initially, 30 participants will be recruited to each group. Speech recordings and contemporaneous clinical data will be used to create a dataset for development and evaluation of novel speech-based diagnosis and monitoring algorithms.

Ethics and dissemination

Digital App for Speech and Health Monitoring Study was approved by the South Central—Hampshire B Ethics Committee (REC ref. 24/SC/0067), NHS Lothian (R&D ref. 2024/0034) and NHS Forth Valley (R&D ref. FV1494). Results of the study will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Data from the study will be shared with other researchers and used to facilitate speech processing challenges for neurological disorders. Regular updates will be provided on the Anne Rowling Regenerative Neurology Clinic web page and social media platforms.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06450418 (pre-results).

Using participatory methods to develop a narrative intervention to alleviate distress in children hospitalised with TB in South Africa: The DIMPle project

by Caitlin D. October, Dzunisani P. Baloyi, Lario Viljoen, Rene Raad, Dillon T. Wademan, Megan Palmer, Juli Switala, Michaile G. Anthony, Karen Du Preez, Petra De Koker, Anneke C. Hesseling, Bronwyne Coetzee, Graeme Hoddinott

Children who are hospitalised for tuberculosis (TB) experience challenges that put them at risk of developing emotional, behavioural, and social difficulties. In this methodological paper, we showcase the development of a narrative intervention toolkit with key components of the resulting version 1.0 tool. The study design was participatory and pragmatic, with researchers working with the routine staff of TB hospital wards, children admitted and their caregivers, to iteratively understand and improve children’s experiences of hospitalisation. The project included three phases: (1) a situational analysis to map children and healthcare providers’ perspectives on priorities and potential intervention components, (2) co-development of a beta-version of the intervention, and (3) piloting and incremental refinement toward a version 1.0 of the intervention. The intervention toolkit combined a series of activities alongside the story of ‘Courageous Curly’ to facilitate children’s engagement with their own experiences of hospitalisation, including psychosocial and treatment challenges, captured, and described throughout data collection. We found that dividing the story into short chapters facilitated children’s engagement with the section of story that is being told on a specific day. Each chapter of the story follows/mimics a different stage children can expect during their treatment journey while hospitalised for TB care. Implementation and evaluation of such interventions can mitigate the psychosocial impact of TB in children and inform policies to improve their overall TB care.

How should trauma discussions be approached in maternity care? Perspectives from a qualitative study with women, voluntary sector representatives and healthcare providers in the UK

Por: Cull · J. · Thomson · G. · Downe · S. · Fine · M. · Topalidou · A.
Background

Many pregnant women have a history of trauma, such as abuse or violence, which can significantly impact their mental and physical health. Discussing these experiences in maternity care presents an opportunity to support women, reduce stigma and connect them with resources. However, concerns persist about stigmatisation, re-traumatisation and unwarranted safeguarding referrals.

The objective of this study was to explore how trauma discussions should be approached in maternity care, drawing on the perspectives of women with lived experience, voluntary sector representatives and healthcare providers in the UK. Findings aim to inform the development of a future intervention.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with women with trauma histories (experts by experience; n=4), representatives of voluntary sector organisations (n=7) and healthcare providers (n=12). Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. A qualitative content analysis approach was employed, supported by a Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement group (named as the ‘Research Collective’ for this study) comprising experts by experience, maternity care professionals and voluntary sector practitioners. The group contributed to both study design and data analysis.

Findings

Five descriptive categories emerged: (1) Rationale for discussions—whether and why trauma should be addressed; (2) Professionals and settings—who should lead discussions and in what environment; (3) Timing considerations—when discussions should occur; (4) Communicating about trauma—strategies to sensitively explore prior trauma; and (5) Supporting care providers—training and emotional support needs. Participants highlighted both the benefits of trauma discussions and the practical, emotional and systemic challenges involved.

Conclusion

Trauma discussions in maternity care are complex but essential. Findings provide practical, UK-specific insights into timing, communication and staff support considerations, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive, co-designed approaches to facilitate safe and effective trauma-informed care.

European Registry of Next Generation Imaging in Advanced Prostate Cancer (RING): protocol for an international, prospective registry study

Por: Chernysheva · D. · Fanti · S. · Bjartell · A. · Afferi · L. · Breda · A. · Palou · J. · Padhani · A. R. · Sanguedolce · F.
Introduction

Next-generation imaging (NGI), particularly with prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography (PSMA PET) tracers, enables earlier and more accurate detection of metastases. However, conventional imaging (CT and bone scan) remains more affordable and widely accessible and was the standard used in most pivotal trials that established current survival outcomes. As PSMA PET becomes more widely adopted, a stage migration effect is emerging. However, key uncertainties persist regarding the actual proportional employment of NGI in clinical practice, main indications for its use and the mid-term and long-term effects of an NGI-driven treatment pathway. Furthermore, when or whether CI alone might remain enough informative for the treatment decision-making is still unclear.

Methods and analysis

The European Registry of Next-Generation Imaging in Advanced Prostate Cancer is a non-profit, non-interventional, multi-centre, international, prospective, investigator-initiated registry that is intended to collect real-world data on how patients with prostate cancer at risk of harbouring metastasis (high-risk at initial diagnosis, or after primary treatment) are managed according to the type of imaging used for the systemic work-up. The registry is conducted in two phases: (1) cross-sectional analysis of imaging choices and their effect on clinical decision-making and (2) longitudinal follow-up evaluating survival outcomes such as progression-free survival (PFS), disease-specific survival (DSS) and skeletal-related events (SSEs). Statistical analyses will include descriptive analysis of demographic and clinical variables, comparative analysis between different imaging pathways, survival and prognostic analyses using Kaplan–Meier tests. The expected minimum sample size of the registry is 600 patients, and the planned follow-up duration is 24 months for the longitudinal follow-up.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Fundació Puigvert (#C2024/30), and ethics approval is required at all participating sites. All patients will provide written informed consent. The results will be disseminated widely and transparently to maximise their effect on clinical practice, research and patient care through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at international conferences as well as through patient advocacy groups and relevant patient websites.

Trial registration number

NCT06866782.

What do we actually know about the biomechanics of pregnancy and labour? A systematic scoping review

by Anastasia Topalidou, Lauren Haworth, Raeesa Jassat, Morgan Hawcroft-Hurst

Pregnancy and childbirth involve profound biomechanical transformations, adaptations, and functional demands on the maternal body. Although biomechanical complications have been identified as a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality, this remains one of the most under-researched areas in perinatal health. This systematic scoping review aimed to map and synthesise existing literature on the biomechanics of pregnancy and labour. Following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA-ScR guidance, comprehensive searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and MIDIRS were conducted up to May 2025. Eligible sources were peer-reviewed empirical studies assessing musculoskeletal, kinematic, kinetic, postural, or dynamic parameters in pregnant or labouring women. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened against predefined eligibility criteria. Data were charted using a structured extraction form and synthesised narratively across key biomechanical themes. Eighty-seven studies were included, all of which focused on pregnancy. No studies conducted during labour were identified. Most were observational with small sample sizes and limited diversity. Ethnicity was reported in only one study. Four key themes emerged: (1) Posture and spinal curvature, (2) Gait and locomotor analysis, (3) Functional tasks and interventions, and (4) Balance and stability. Findings showed high individual variability and no consistent biomechanical pattern across pregnancy. Real-world, neuromuscular, and labour-related biomechanics remain largely unexplored. This review underscores a critical gap in perinatal research: while biomechanical adaptations during pregnancy have been increasingly studied, labour remains entirely unexamined from a biomechanical perspective. Current evidence is fragmented, methodologically narrow, and lacks diversity, offering limited clinical relevance. We are effectively operating in a biomechanical vacuum, without empirical data to guide safer, more efficient, and personalised birth practices. Existing clinical approaches rely heavily on tradition, anecdotal experience, and untested theoretical assumptions. Addressing this evidence void, particularly in labour biomechanics and ethnic representation, is essential to improve perinatal outcomes and support equity in maternal care.

Shaping well-being and healthy habits at work through tailored physical activity among remote and hybrid employees: study protocol for RCT

Por: Paluszak · A. · Molek-Winiarska · D. · Chomatowska · B. · Winiarski · S.
Introduction

This study aims to create a comprehensive model for shaping well-being and healthy habits at work through tailored training in physical activity among remote or hybrid workers.

Methods and analysis

This is a three-arm randomised controlled trial designed to assess the effects of tailored and general physical activity interventions compared with a no-intervention control group. It is assumed that both types of physical activity (general and tailored) might reduce musculoskeletal problems and presenteeism and improve well-being in a short time. However, a tailored type of training, prepared to reduce pain in specific muscles associated with long-term sedentary work, along with a detailed explanation of how exercises influence the muscles, will allow the development of healthy work habits and decrease negative symptoms in a long-term period. Therefore, short-term effects on well-being, presenteeism and musculoskeletal problems will be tested immediately after training and long-term ones—3 months after the end of the training. Well-being at work, presenteeism, work habits and workstations will be measured using research questionnaires. The level of musculoskeletal complaints will also be assessed using a standardised questionnaire specifying the location and the level of pain caused by the ailments. In addition, objective assessment tools will be used—electromyography (measuring the level of fatigue of specific muscles) and myotonometry (determining the level of muscle stiffness).

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (the Rector’s Commission on Research Ethics at the Wroclaw University of Economics and Business; Ethical Committee Decision number: 10/2025) and will be conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. The findings of this research will be disseminated in the original article.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12624001311549.

Early and late biomarkers as predictors of severe dengue: a comprehensive umbrella review protocol

Por: Gunasekera · K. M. · Seneviwickrama · M. · Ranasinghe · S. · Gamage · K. · Gonapaladeniya · M.
Introduction

Predicting the progression to severe dengue remains a critical yet challenging aspect of patient management. This umbrella review aims to identify biomarkers associated with the development of severe dengue. The primary objective is to determine which biomarkers can predict progression to severe disease in dengue-infected patients. Secondary objectives include identifying (a) early biomarkers (detected on days 1–3 of illness), (b) late biomarkers (detected after day 3), (c) biomarkers requiring further investigation and (d) differences in predictive biomarkers between patients aged

Method and analysis

The review questions were formulated based on the Population, Concept and Context (PCC) framework. This review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for umbrella reviews and be reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Overviews of Systematic Reviews guidelines. The protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251058284). MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, JBI Evidence Synthesis and DARE databases will be searched from 1/1/1990 to 1/6/2025. The findings are expected to support early risk stratification and guide future biomarker research in dengue infection. The systematic reviews included in this umbrella review may define severe dengue according to either the WHO 1997 or 2009 guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required since the work involves published documents. The review findings will be communicated to relevant stakeholders through conference presentations and publication in an open-access journal.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO 2025 CRD420251058284. Available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251058284.

Assessment of validity, reliability, responsiveness and acceptability of seven Dutch-Flemish PROMIS computerised adaptive tests (CATs) in Dutch people with type 2 diabetes: an observational and qualitative study

Por: Groeneveld · L. · Terwee · C. B. · van der Willik · E. M. · van Ittersum · F. J. · Langendoen-Gort · M. · Pals · F. · Blom · M. T. · Beulens · J. W. J. · Elders · P. J. M. · Rutters · F.
Objectives

This study aimed to assess construct validity against commonly used patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), test–retest reliability and responsiveness of seven Dutch-Flemish Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) computerised adaptive testing (CATs) in Dutch adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and assess their acceptability in healthcare providers and people with T2D.

Design

A cross-sectional observational study in people with T2D and qualitative study involving both people with T2D and healthcare professionals.

Setting

Participants with T2D were recruited from the ongoing Hoorn Diabetes Care System cohort in the West-Friesland area of the Netherlands. Additionally, people with T2D and advanced chronic kidney disease were recruited at the outpatient clinics of Amsterdam University Medical Centre and ‘Niercentrum aan de Amstel’, both in the Amsterdam area of the Netherlands. The healthcare professionals involved in the qualitative part were recruited at the Amsterdam University Medical Centre.

Participants

314 people with T2D (age 64.0±10.8 years, 63.7% men).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Participants completed seven PROMIS CATs (assessing (1) Physical Function, (2) Pain Interference, (3) Fatigue, (4) Sleep Disturbance, (5) Anxiety, (6) Depression and (7) Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities), and PROMs measuring similar constructs. After 2 weeks and 6 months, participants completed the CATs measures again, together with seven Global Rating Scales (GRS) on perceived change in each domain. Construct validity was assessed using Pearson’s correlations. Test–retest reliability was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Measurement error was assessed by the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). Responsiveness was assessed by correlations between change scores on the PROMIS CAT and GRS. Acceptability was assessed through focus groups and interviews in healthcare providers and people with T2D.

Results

Except for Fatigue, all PROMIS CAT domains demonstrated sufficient construct validity, since ≥75% of the results was in accordance with a priori hypotheses. All seven PROMIS CATs showed sufficient test–retest reliability (ICCs 0.73–0.91). SEM and MDC ranged from 2.1 to 2.7 and from 5.7 to 7.4, respectively. Responsiveness was rated as insufficient in this study design as there was almost no change in participants’ own rating of their health compared with 6 months ago according to a global rating of change.

During the focus groups and interviews, healthcare providers and people with T2D agreed that CATs could serve as a conversation starter in routine care, but should never replace personal consultations with a doctor. If implemented, participants would be willing to spend 15 min to complete the PROMIS CATs.

Conclusions

The PROMIS CATs showed sufficient construct validity and test–retest reliability in most domains in people with T2D. Responsiveness needs to be evaluated in a population with poorer diabetes control or in a study design with longer follow-up. The CATs are well accepted to be used in care to identify relevant topics, but should not replace personal contact with the doctor.

Ozoile‐Stable Ozonides, Derived From Organic Extravirgin Olive Oil, Enhance Wound Healing Process in Patients With Diabetic Chronic Ulcers

ABSTRACT

The article describes the outcomes of a single-centre investigation on the use of OZOILE to improve the healing process in patients with chronic diabetic ulcers. This is a non-randomised interventional study which aims to assess the differences between two groups (total 200 patients) by evaluating healing time at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 days. Pain assessment with VAS scale at 15, 30 and 45 days, biofilm test and tissue regeneration by histological evaluation were also taken into consideration. The outcomes show faster healing, reduced pain, control of local infection, aesthetically pleasing and qualitatively better healing. Our treatment strategy involves applying OZOILE detergent without rinsing, Ozoile spray oil and Ozoile cream followed by a non-adherent dressing (paraffin gauze). This integrated protocol shows a safe and effective treatment for diabetic chronic wound healing in a cost-effective manner. The group treated with the Rigenoma/Ozoile protocol demonstrated significantly superior outcomes compared to the control group, including accelerated healing, reduced pain levels, effective management of unpleasant odour, and high levels of compliance from both patients and surgeons. Overall, Ozoile markedly reduced healing time compared with standard care, with results robust across multiple analytical approaches.

Molecular characterization of <i>Rhipicephalus microplus</i> and <i>Haemaphysalis bispinosa</i> ticks from cattle across Thailand: Regional identification and evidence of different genetic sub-structures between mainland and penins

by Danai Sangthong, Pradit Sangthong, Warin Rangubpit, Prapasiri Pongprayoon, Eukote Suwan, Kannika Wongpanit, Wissanuwat Chimnoi, Pacharathon Simking, Sinsamut Sae Ngow, Serge Morand, Roger W. Stich, Sathaporn Jittapalapong

Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses were conducted on tick specimens collected from cattle in northern, northeastern, central, and southern regions of Thailand. Morphological identification indicated these ticks consisted of three species, Rhipicephalus microplus from all four regions, R. sanguineus from the northern and northeastern regions, and a Haemaphysalis species only collected from the northeastern region. Analysis of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI) sequences identified R. microplus clades A and C, while clade B was not detected in this study. The same analysis indicated specimens morphologically identified as Haemaphysalis were H. bispinosa, confirming previous reports of their prevalence in northeastern Thailand. H. bispinosa showed low haplotype and nucleotide diversity, suggesting either a bottleneck or founder effect. Both R. microplus clades displayed high haplotype diversity and low nucleotide diversity, a pattern associated with population expansion. Genetic structural analysis revealed significant genetic differences in R. microplus clade A, especially between mainland (northern, northeastern, and central regions) and peninsular (southern region) populations, which indicated limited gene flow between these areas while suggesting movement of these ticks across the mainland. The sequence analyses described in this report enhance understanding of the natural history of ticks in Thailand and are expected to guide and strengthen tick control strategies across Southeast Asia.

Developing the Peoples Experience Survey (PES): a mixed-methods study updating a patient-reported experience measure (PREM) for use in any healthcare setting across Wales

Por: Withers · K. · Palmer · R. · Waddington · H. · South · K. · Lewis · J. · Desir · R.
Objectives

To develop and validate a bilingual experience survey for use in any NHS healthcare setting, to support service improvement.

Design

A prospective mixed-methods study.

Setting

Any healthcare setting in NHS Wales including primary, secondary, urgent and planned care.

Participants

An opportunistic sample of people with experience of using local healthcare services. Qualitative interviews and focus groups were held to develop a draft survey. These were followed by online data collection from a wide participant sample for statistical validation. The tool was translated and linguistically validated following recognised methods. Patient engagement leads were involved to ensure the tool met their needs.

Results

We conducted and analysed five focus groups and four interviews, consisting of 33 people in total. 12 draft questions were developed related to key aspects of patient experience. A series of online surveys were conducted to test the draft questions, with 769 responses received. Data were analysed to assess completion rates, intra-rater reliability, internal consistency and convergent validity. One question had both sub-par intrarater reliability and poor convergent validity, and despite attempts to improve the wording, it failed to meet minimum requirements of validity and was subsequently removed. The final validated People’s Experience Survey (PES) was subsequently translated into Welsh and validated with service users.

Conclusions

The PES is a reliable and valid tool, suitable for use in any healthcare setting. The robust processes that have been undertaken ensure that the questions included are available bilingually to collect reliable, meaningful data to support service improvement work.

Dominance of <i>Zygosaccharomyces</i> and shifts in bacterial pathways: Effects of antimicrobials on composition and diversity of the <i>Ceratitis capitata</i> bacterial and fungal microbiome

by Maria Cecilia Rasuk, Alfonsina Palladini, Andrea Moyano, Viviana Díaz, Antonella Giudice, Gisela Castillo, Solana Abraham, Juan Rull, Anja Poehlein, Rolf Daniel, Julian Rafael Dib

The Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata Wied.) is an agricultural pest of significant economic importance. This species has been globally managed using the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). Insects, including tephritid flies, harbor a diverse gut microbiota that plays critical roles in their physiology, behavior, and overall fitness, suggesting that microbial communities may profoundly influence the biology of this pest. The aim of this study was to characterize the fungal and bacterial gut microbial communities of C. capitata from Tucumán, Argentina, and to assess their response to antimicrobial treatment using amplicon-based 16S rRNA gene and ITS region sequencing. Both control and treated flies were dominated by Proteobacteria (bacteria) and Zygosaccharomyces (fungi). Antimicrobial treatment induced significant shifts in bacterial and fungal composition, reducing diversity and altering gut community structure. Untreated flies exhibited a diverse and structured bacterial gut community dominated by the family Enterobacteriaceae, while antibiotic-treated communities were dominated by Rhizobiaceae. Despite these shifts, fungal communities in both treated and untreated groups were consistently dominated by the genus Zygosaccharomyces. Functional predictions revealed notable changes in metabolic pathways following antibiotic treatment, including increased gene abundance for ABC transporters and the phosphotransferase system, and decreased representation of genes involved in antibiotic biosynthesis and two-component systems. These results indicate significant alterations in bacterial metabolism and stress response mechanisms induced by the treatment. Such changes may help explain the underperformance of irradiated, mass-reared males within the context of SIT. This study provides new insights into the structural and functional dynamics of the C. capitata gut microbiome under disturbance. These findings have implications for understanding the ecological roles of microbial communities in this pest and their potential impact on fly health and fitness. Identification of dominant gut bacterial and fungal groups may support the development of probiotic diets, enhancing the efficiency of SIT application.

Homogenized and stigmatized: A discourse analysis of Asian sub-ethnic medical school aspirants

by Salman H. Choudhry, Keegan D’Mello, George Kim, Robin Mackin, Amrit Kirpalani

The study examines the influence of Asian sub-ethnic identity on the experiences of pre-medical students in the United States and Canada, aiming to understand how early interactions with the medical education system shape their pursuit of medicine. The researchers analyzed 132 discussion threads from popular online premedical school forums between June 2018 and 2023. The Asian Critical Theory framework guided the analysis along with cyclical inductive coding. Two major themes emerged: the homogenization of diverse Asian sub-ethnicities and external pressure related to sociocultural values. Terms like “over-represented minorities” contributed to the perception of Asians as a monolithic group, while expressions such as “Asian Parents” highlighted unique familial expectations. Non-Asian users often dismissed these barriers, reinforcing the model minority myth. The study emphasizes the negative consequences of framing Asians as a homogenous group in medical school admissions policies, perpetuating stereotypes, and overlooking the diversity within Asian sub-ethnic communities. The term “overrepresented” is critiqued for its role in homogenizing Asian identities and undermining the complexity of their experiences. These findings highlight the need for greater recognition of the nuanced challenges faced by Asian sub-ethnic medical trainees and the importance of dismantling stereotypes in medical education.

Landscape analysis of pregnancy exposure registries in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review

Por: Bhat · N. · Knudson · S. · AbuShweimeh · R. · Nakambale · H. · Mooney · J. · Salts · N. · Mehta · U. C. · Sevene · E. · Fell · D. · Lamprianou · S. · Pal · S. N. · Stergachis · A.
Introduction

Drug and vaccine safety information relevant to pregnant individuals is typically insufficient, especially so for persons living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Pregnancy exposure registries (PERs) and similar systems are used to monitor medical products safety. A better understanding of the landscape of PERs in LMICs can support medicines regulatory system strengthening and preparation for new vaccine and drug introductions.

Objectives

To identify PERs and related health data collection platforms in LMICs that systematically record pregnancy exposures to medical products and pregnancy outcomes to inform how future efforts, such as new vaccine introductions and treatment programmes, can better support maternal populations in these countries.

Design

Scoping review based on methodology outlined in the Joanna Briggs Institute manual for scoping reviews.

Data sources

Electronic search of Medline/PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and Global Index Medicus in June 2022, and key informants via online survey in July 2022 and interviews.

Eligibility criteria

Eligible resources included registries, surveillance systems and databases that collect information on exposures to medical products during pregnancy and on subsequent maternal, perinatal and neonatal outcomes in populations located entirely or partially in LMICs. Eligible records were published from January 2000 through June 2022.

Data extraction and synthesis

Search results were screened and data extracted using a standardised form by two independent reviewers. Instances of discordance were resolved by a third reviewer. Identified systems were categorised by resource type.

Results

A total of 7515 records from electronic searches were screened, with 396 selected for full-text review and 47 additional records obtained from other sources. From these, 45 data collection systems located in African, Asian and Latin American LMICs were identified, with 36 currently in operation. These resources were grouped into six categories based on structure and approach and summarised according to key features, strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusions

This scoping review identified several resources in LMICs dedicated to drug and vaccine safety in pregnancy, but findings indicate that more investment will be needed to ensure such efforts are widespread and sustainable. Understanding the current landscape of such resources in these settings is an important step towards improving safe, world-wide access to life-saving interventions for pregnant populations.

Trial registration number

The protocol for this review has been registered with Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/FU5AT).

Development and psychometric evaluation of a safety instrument for patients with cognitive impairment in hospital: an exploratory sequential mixed-methods study protocol in Iran

Por: Shahmari · M. · Palese · A. · Bahramnezhad · F. · Shafiee Sabet · M. · Dehghan Nayeri · N.
Introduction

Cognitive impairments, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, are considered a significant public health challenge as they affect mental functions like memory, attention, language and decision-making. With the growing number of older individuals, the prevalence of these diseases is also increasing and is projected to reach 152 million worldwide by 2050. These disorders result in difficulties with judgement, communication and daily activities, leading to more hospitalisations and risks such as disorientation in the environment and a higher likelihood of falls. Current hospital safety assessment tools mainly focus on physical aspects and overlook other crucial factors. Therefore, this study aims to clarify the concept of safety challenges for patients with cognitive impairment and to develop and psychometrically validate a multidimensional instrument for use in hospital settings.

Methods

A sequential exploratory study with mixed methods will be conducted. In the first qualitative phase, based on a content analysis approach, the aim is to explain and clarify safety issues in patients with cognitive impairment. Participants will be purposively selected until saturation is reached in educational-therapeutic centres affiliated with the University of Medical Sciences, and unstructured in-depth interviews will be conducted. The data will be analysed simultaneously using MAXQDA V.20 software. Additionally, a literature review on safety issues in patients with cognitive impairment will be conducted to supplement aspects that may not have emerged in the interviews.

In the second phase, an instrument based on the inductive–deductive method will be developed. The items will be created based on the participants’ experiences and the literature review. Face, content and construct validity, as well as reliability, will be assessed. Data synthesis will involve a linkage strategy, where the qualitative data will be linked to the quantitative data immediately after the completion of the qualitative phase, once the protocols are developed.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is part of a postdoctoral project approved by the Tehran University of Medical Sciences Research Ethics Board (IR.TUMS.FNM.REC.1403.006). Findings will be disseminated at the local, national and international levels.

Gender differences in clinical features, comorbidities and prognostic outcomes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis--a retrospective cohort analysis from the British Thoracic Society Interstitial Lung Disease Registry

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), an unknown aetiology type of interstitial lung disease (ILD), carries the poorest prognosis and is more common in males and the elderly. Gender differences in baseline presentation, lung function and comorbidities may have an impact on prognostic outcomes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore gender differences in clinical features, comorbidities and outcomes in IPF in a UK cohort.

Method

This was a retrospective cohort study analysing data from the British Thoracic Society UK IPF ILD Registry from January 2013 to February 2024. We compared baseline characteristics between males and females, and a survival analysis in both genders was performed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

We identified 6666 IPF patients with a mean age at diagnosis of 74.1±8.1. Our cohort was predominantly male (5197, 78%), with a higher proportion of current and ex-smokers compared with females (69.9% vs 59.9%, p

Conclusion

Gender differences in baseline characteristics and prognostic factors were observed in IPF. A gender-based approach in managing IPF is warranted, and further studies are needed to clarify these differences and their impact on IPF management.

Trends in cardiometabolic conditions and pregnancy outcomes: a retrospective cohort study in South-Eastern Melbourne

Por: Belsti · Y. · Palmer · K. R. · Moran · L. J. · Rolnik · D. L. · Goldstein · R. · Mousa · A. · Enticott · J. · Teede · H. J.
Objectives

To examine trends in preconception and pregnancy cardiometabolic risk factors and conditions, pregnancy and birth complications, obstetric interventions, and the impact of COVID-19, and to forecast future disease burden.

Design

A multi-centre retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A large hospital network with three maternity hospitals serving ethnically diverse populations in Melbourne, Australia.

Participants

Pregnant women who gave birth between 2016 and 2022.

Outcome measures

Trends in cardiometabolic conditions, birth complications and obstetric interventions.

Results

Over 7 years, 63 232 women were included, of whom 40% were nulliparous, and 60.9% were born overseas from 167 countries. From 2016–2022, maternal age (30.2–31.3 years), obesity (21.0%–26.2%), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (15.9%–28.1%) and caesarean delivery (28.5%–37.6%) increased, while average gestational weight gain, premature births and special care admissions declined from 12.6–11.6 kg, 6.3%–4.9% and 24.2%–14.1%, respectively; and was statistically significant (p

Conclusions

Prepregnancy and pregnancy cardiometabolic risk factors and conditions, pregnancy and birth complications, and obstetric interventions increased markedly over 7 years. Despite this, offspring complications, including special care admissions, stillbirths and prematurity, decreased, while pregnancy complications peaked during COVID-19. GDM is forecasted to increase to 43.0% by 2028, posing an unsustainable health and economic burden that necessitates urgent public health initiatives.

Safety culture in paediatric emergency departments: a cross-sectional study among healthcare professionals

Objectives

Safety culture is essential to improving healthcare quality. Paediatric emergency departments are high-risk environments where evaluating safety culture helps identify areas for improvement. This study aimed to analyse the safety culture among professionals in paediatric emergency departments, according to job category and gender.

Design

Multicentre cross-sectional study using the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC).

Setting

19 paediatric emergency departments, covering all levels of care.

Participants

1843 healthcare professionals were invited to participate; the response rate was 63.8%, and 33% of respondents were nurses. All clinical staff in paediatric emergency departments were eligible. Professionals from other specialties and non-clinical staff were excluded.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was the assessment of patient safety culture using the HSOPSC, following the methodology of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Secondary outcomes included comparisons by job category and gender, and an exploratory cluster analysis.

Results

In terms of patient safety, the main strength was ‘teamwork within units’ (83.65% positive), while the main weakness was ‘staffing’ (61.92% negative). Patient safety was rated with an average score of 7.21 by the participants. Paediatricians rated ‘manager expectations’ significantly higher than nurses (p=0.023) and residents (p=0.026). Paediatricians gave more positive responses overall, with significant differences in ‘communication openness’, ‘feedback and communication’, ‘non-punitive response’ and ‘teamwork across units’, though none were classified as strengths. Cluster analysis showed that the group with more paediatricians identified more strengths and no weaknesses, while the group with more nurses and nursing assistants showed no strengths and significant weaknesses in ‘overall safety perception’, ‘staffing’ and ‘management support’.

Conclusions

Safety culture in paediatric emergency departments is acceptable, but still far from excellent, indicating ample room for improvement. Differences between professional categories, especially between paediatricians and nurses, highlight the need for targeted safety strategies and leadership involvement.

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