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Impaired dynein function preserves spinal interneuron survival and positioning in an ALS-like mouse model

by Eleni Christoforidou, Jordan S. Rowe, Fabio A. Simoes, Raphaelle Cassel, Luc Dupuis, Peter Nigel Leigh, Majid Hafezparast

Impaired cytoplasmic dynein function has been implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathogenesis, yet the contributions of spinal interneurons to disease phenotypes remain unclear. We tested the hypothesis that hypomorphic dynein function in cholinergic neurons disrupts the development, survival, or positioning of inhibitory interneuron populations in the lumbar spinal cord. Using ChAT-Cre recombination, we generated four mouse genotypes with graded reductions in dynein activity in ChAT+ cells: Dync1h1+/+ (wildtype), Dync1h1−/+ (hemizygous wildtype), Dync1h1+/Loa (heterozygous Loa mutation), and Dync1h1−/Loa (hemizygous Loa). At 52 weeks of age, lumbar spinal cords (L3–L6) were harvested, cryosectioned, and immunostained for ChAT, GAD-67, Parvalbumin, and Calbindin. Cell counts were performed on confocal images from eight sections per mouse (N = 3 male mice/genotype), and radial distances from the central canal were normalised to gray matter width. Angular distributions were analysed via circular statistics. There were no significant genotype-dependent differences in the numbers of ChAT+, GAD-67+, Parvalbumin+, or Calbindin+ cells, nor in ChAT+ subpopulations (motor neurons versus interneurons) or double‐positive interneuron subsets (e.g., ChAT+–GAD-67+, Parvalbumin+–GAD-67+, Parvalbumin+–Calbindin+). Radial positioning relative to the central canal was similarly preserved across all markers and genotypes. Circular‐median tests revealed statistically significant shifts in mean angle for ChAT+, GAD-67+, and certain double‐positive cells, but these amounted to only 5–10° displacements, translating to lateral shifts of ~10–20 µm, well within single laminar bands, and are unlikely to impact circuit connectivity. Despite substantial motor deficits and hallmark TDP-43 pathology previously seen in these models, impaired dynein function does not precipitate interneuron loss or gross migratory defects in the lumbar spinal cord. Instead, our findings suggest that the primary contributions of dynein to ALS-like phenotypes likely arise from functional disruptions in axonal transport, synaptic maintenance, and neuronal physiology rather than from structural alterations or loss of interneuron populations.

Non-randomised trial of a hepatitis C same-day test and treat model using antibody test only for people who inject drugs in Armenia, Georgia and Tanzania: a CUTTS HepC study protocol

Por: Draper · B. L. · Flynn · M. · Schroeder · S. · Wisse · E. · Aikaeli · F. · Han · Z. M. · Ayako · M. · Bajis · S. · Butsashvili · M. · Davtyan · K. · Kordzadze · T. · Lamand · P. · Luhmann · N. · Sargsyan · K. · Senkoro · M. · Scott · N. · Stone · J. · Vickerman · P. · Voloshin · A. · Walker
Introduction

Despite the availability of curative treatments, hepatitis C diagnosis and treatment coverage is suboptimal globally with few countries on track to achieve the WHO’s 2030 elimination targets. In 2022, an estimated 50 million people were living with hepatitis C, with 1 million new infections annually. Most people living with hepatitis C reside in low- and middle-income countries, and people who inject drugs are disproportionately affected by hepatitis C.

Continuing simplification of diagnostic pathways and treatment care models is required to improve linkage to care and reduce costs associated with hepatitis C treatment and cure.

Methods and analysis

This study is a multi-country non-randomised, quasi-experimental, prospective comparative two-arm trial. It aims to assess the feasibility of implementation, retention in hepatitis C care and achievement of cure and cost-effectiveness outcomes, comparing two simplified hepatitis C testing and treatment pathways.

Arm 1 is a standard simplified test and treat model of care following global guidance, and arm 2 is an innovative rapid, same-day treatment initiation model of care using a presumptive treatment approach based on shortened read-time of the point-of-care OraQuick hepatitis C antibody test result. Secondary outcomes include assessing the accuracy of the OraQuick hepatitis C antibody test in predicting viraemia and the acceptability of each pathway.

This study will be implemented in Armenia, Georgia and Tanzania. Treatment-naïve people who inject drugs aged over 18 years in each country will be eligible for enrolment.

Recruitment commenced in October 2024 in Armenia, June 2025 in Georgia and August 2025 in Tanzania and is anticipated to close by December 2026.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been reviewed by WHO Ethics Review Committee (ERC), Alfred Hospital Ethics Committee (Australia) and local country ERCs. Alongside journal publications and conferences, the results from this study will be disseminated through summary reports and workshops with key stakeholders and with communities of people affected by HCV through relevant organisations/networks, including the global Community Advisory Board (CAB). The study results will inform national scale-up of simplified care models and inform potential pathways for further simplification of care models, including the potential for one-step diagnostic pathways and same-day treatment in particular scenarios for the three study countries, and other low- and middle-income countries globally.

Trial registration number

NCT06159504.

Factors Influencing Patient Satisfaction With a Government‐Funded Free Treatment Programme for Severe Mental Illnesses: A Community‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study in China

ABSTRACT

Background

In China, government-funded free treatment programmes have substantially expanded access to mental healthcare for patients with severe mental illnesses (SMIs). However, the effectiveness and patient satisfaction associated with these programmes can vary significantly. Understanding the factors underlying these variations is crucial for optimising patient adherence and rehabilitation outcomes.

Aim

To identify factors influencing SMI patients' satisfaction with a government-funded free treatment programme in District S, Nanjing, China, and propose targeted measures to enhance the programme's effectiveness and improve patient outcomes.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

This study was conducted in 23 community healthcare centres in District S, Nanjing, China, from January to July 2022. A total of 924 SMI patients enrolled in the programme were selected using a two-stage random sampling method. Data on patients' individual characteristics, health behaviours and satisfaction with the programme were collected by a self-developed structured questionnaire. Guided by Andersen's Behavioural Model, hierarchical logistic regression analysis was employed to determine factors associated with patient satisfaction.

Results

Among the 924 valid responses, 51.3% of patients with SMIs reported low satisfaction with the programme. Factors associated with patient satisfaction included individual predisposing, enabling, need and health behaviour variables. Specifically, patients who were employed, had schizophrenia, experienced adverse drug reactions, feared program exposure of their condition and received treatment in hospital were more likely to report lower satisfaction.

Conclusion

This study revealed that satisfaction among SMI patients with the programme remains low, with patient satisfaction primarily determined by individual need and health behaviour factors. Policymakers and stakeholders should implement targeted measures to address these factors and improve patient satisfaction.

Impact

The findings offer new insights and scientific bases for policymakers seeking to improve the programme and practical recommendations for stakeholders to develop effective solutions.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Risk factors for COVID-19 symptom severity across clinical categories among hospitalised patients in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: a prospective cohort study

Por: Johdi · N. A. · Abdullah · N. · Goh · Y.-X. · Min · J. O. S. · Muhammad Azami · N. A. · Abdul Jalal · M. I. · Mohammed Nawi · A. · Ahmad · N. · Hassan · M. R. · Sulong · A. · Kori · N. · Periyasamy · P. · Hamid · F. · Sapuan · N. M. · Selvam · S. B. P. · Hajib · N. · Mustafa · N. · Rashi
Objectives

This study aimed to quantify how patient risk factors relate to COVID-19 severity across categories 1–5 in a prospective, hospital-based cohort. We hypothesised that greater severity would be associated with higher odds of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and in-hospital mortality. Secondary aims were to assess associations with age, viral variants, symptom clusters, lymphocyte count, fasting blood glucose and cytokine profiles.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

A secondary-care/tertiary-care hospital and linked community settings in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Participants

This study was nested within the COVGEN project, a prospective COVID-19 cohort conducted at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz UKM (HCTM), Cheras Health Clinic and the Bandar Tun Razak COVID-19 Assessment Centre in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 1 August 2021 to 31 October 2022. 2532 participants were enrolled at baseline. Eligible participants were Malaysian citizens aged 12–18 years (paediatric/adolescent) or ≥18 years who had reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction–confirmed COVID-19 at recruitment and resided in Kuala Lumpur or Selangor. Patients who had a clinically unstable condition and those who declined participation (personally or via a next-of-kin or legal representative) were excluded. This analysis included 559 patients hospitalised at HCTM; after excluding five with incomplete questionnaires, 554 remained for analysis (413 admitted to general wards and 141 to ICUs). Categories 3–5 comprised hospitalised patients, whereas categories 1–2 included hospitalised individuals and a subset recruited from community settings.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcomes included disease severity (categories 4–5 vs 1–3), ICU admission and in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included associations with age strata, viral variant (delta vs omicron), symptom clusters, lymphocyte count, fasting blood glucose and cytokines: interferon gamma-inducible protein 10, interferon gamma, interleukins 8, 10, 2, 6 and 7 and tumour necrosis factor alpha.

Results

141 of 554 (25.5%) patients required ICU care. Compared with milder categories, category 5 was associated with markedly higher odds of ICU admission (OR 204.50; 95% CI 37.54 to 1114.18; p55 versus

Conclusions

An increasing clinical severity category was strongly associated with ICU admission and mortality. Age, delta infection, specific symptom clusters, lymphopenia, hyperglycaemia and pro-inflammatory cytokines identified higher-risk patients, supporting risk-stratified management and prioritisation for enhanced monitoring.

Petit volunteer protocol for loneliness alleviation in community-dwelling older adults in Japan: a randomised controlled trial

Por: Tomida · K. · Shimoda · T. · Nakajima · C. · Kawakami · A. · Shimada · H.
Introduction

Older adult loneliness is associated with depression, disability and higher mortality rates. As a public health concern, it contributes to increased medical and nursing care costs. Several intervention studies have been conducted to reduce loneliness; however, no universally effective method has been established. We hypothesise that if older adults use their physical abilities to perform petit volunteering, their feelings of loneliness would likely be reduced. This trial aims to investigate the benefits of using petit volunteers for loneliness alleviation (PetitVOLA) application as a sustainable programme to prevent loneliness through the creation of an Ikigai-based volunteer system.

Methods and analysis

We intend to conduct a randomised controlled trial with a 3-month intervention period to verify the effectiveness of the PetitVOLA programme (sample size, 126 participants; power, 0.8; significance level, 0.05). The primary outcome is loneliness, which we will measure using the UCLA Loneliness Scale (V.3). Secondary outcomes include social isolation (assessed via multicomponent objective criteria), life satisfaction, physical function (gait speed and grip strength), cognitive function, psychological status and lifestyle, each assessed with validated instruments (eg, Mini-Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale-15 and the Active Mobility Index). The main analysis uses an intention-to-treat approach, while a full analysis set and a per-protocol set are included for sub-analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan (approval No. 1794). The results of this trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and reports to the participating community.

Trial registration number

UMIN000056649.

Developing consensus definitions and methods for non-visually impairing eye conditions for population-based eye surveys in Nigeria: a Delphi study

Por: Aghaji · A. · Okoye · O. · Nwachukwu · N. Z. · Ezegwui · I. · Okoye · O. · Umeh · R. · Gilbert · C. E. · The Nigeria National Non-Visually Impairing Conditions Study Group · Ada · Onochie · Nkiru · Ifeoma · Obiekwe · Rich · Clare · Lawan · Emem · Ebere · Dupe · Korede · Feyi · Kayo
Objective

To establish consensus definitions for non-visually impairing eye conditions (NVICs) and their methods of assessments to provide standards for use in population-based eye surveys.

Design

A literature review of NVICs in sub-Saharan Africa, a questionnaire of inquiry based on the literature review developed by an expert panel and a modified Delphi exercise with three iterative rounds with eye health experts.

Setting

Eye health academia and community eye health in Nigeria.

Participants

Nigerian ophthalmologists, including subspecialists experienced in population-based eye health surveys.

Main outcome measures

Definitions and statements where at least 70% of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed.

Results

Forty-two ophthalmologists practising in Nigeria with experience in conducting population-based eye health surveys were invited to take part in the Delphi exercise. There were three rounds with response rates of 39/42 (92.9%) in round 1, (94.9%) in round 2 and 100% in round 3. Consensus for NVICs to be included in population-based eye surveys, their definitions and methods for assessment was reached by the third round.

Conclusions

We propose case definitions for NVICs to be assessed in population-based eye surveys through a modified Delphi approach with an expert panel of ophthalmologists from across Nigeria. These case definitions will allow for standardisation of NVICs in population-based eye surveys to assess the prevalence and magnitude of the different types of NVICs for planning purposes. Further studies are needed to validate these case definitions and inform their evolution.

Enhancement of the capacity of a healthcare team through real-time information-sharing using a wireless intercom system: a prospective simulation study

Por: Sato · H. · Kuwabara · D. · Minoguchi · K. · Masubuchi · T. · Matsumoto · M. · Okuyama · Y. · Kawakami · H. · Abe · T. · Nakamura · K. · Goto · T. · Nakajima · K.
Objectives

Rising patient numbers and limited resources are creating a challenging environment for healthcare providers recently. Anaesthesiologists are also increasingly faced with complex situations, requiring high adaptability in the operating room. To enhance team adaptability during emergencies, effective communication methods are essential. This study aimed to compare the impact of mobile phones and intercoms on the response time and effectiveness of anaesthesiologist teams in emergency situations.

Design

Prospective, observational and simulation study.

Setting

Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan.

Participants and methods

This study, conducted at Yokohama City University Medical Center (Yokohama, Japan), evaluated how communication methods (intercoms vs mobile phones) impact the efficiency of anaesthesiologists in the simulation setting. Two scenarios were tested: (1) retrieving a video laryngoscope during a difficult intubation and (2) gathering support during cardiac arrest.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Outcomes measured included time to secure equipment, time for assistance to arrive and staff numbers gathered. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the outcomes between the intercom and mobile phone groups.

Results

In scenario 1, the time to secure the video laryngoscope was significantly shorter with intercom use compared with mobile phones (intercom vs mobile phone, median (IQR): 29 (25–33) s vs 50 (39–62) s; p=0.013, effect size 20 (95% CI 7 to 31)). In scenario 2, the time from the request for assistance until the first supporting staff member reached the operating room was significantly shorter in using the intercoms (intercom vs mobile phone, median (IQR): 16 (14–18) s vs 35 (31–38) s; p=0.04, effect size 17 (95% CI 6 to 24)), and more personnel were available in the intercom group (intercom vs mobile phone, median (IQR): 3 (3–3.5) persons vs 2 (1–2) persons; p=0.04, effect size 1.5 (95% CI 1 to 3)).

Conclusion

Real-time information sharing through intercoms improved the ability of the anaesthesiologist team to respond more rapidly and effectively in emergency situations, enhancing overall team adaptability. This approach may improve patients’ outcomes by shortening response times and increasing team coordination.

Optimising internet-based cognitive-behavioural therapy programme to prevent perinatal depression: a unified protocol for two harmonised randomised controlled trials

Por: Toyomoto · R. · Furukawa · T. A. · Noma · H. · Tajika · A. · Watanabe · M. · Honda · Y. · Banno · C. · Ogasawara · S. · Kitaori · T. · Sugiura-Ogasawara · M. · Goto · S.
Introduction

Perinatal depression poses substantial risks to both mothers and their offspring. Given its chronic and recurrent nature, developing effective prevention strategies is crucial. Internet-based cognitive–behavioural therapy (iCBT) has shown promise. However, the efficacy of specific CBT skills and the influence of individual differences remain unclear.

Methods and analysis

This protocol describes two harmonised multicentre, open-label, six-arm randomised controlled trials. Across both trials, a total of 2400 pregnant women between 10 and 20 weeks of gestation will be enrolled. After completing psychoeducation (PE), participants will be randomised to either the control condition (PE only) or one of five CBT programmes: behavioural activation (BA), assertion training, BA+cognitive restructuring, BA + problem solving or BA + behaviour therapy for insomnia. The objectives of the study are: (1) to ascertain that the iCBT approach is effective in perinatal depression, (2) to identify active CBT skills for perinatal women and (3) to examine interactions between these CBT skills and individuals’ baseline characteristics to find personalised and optimised therapy for individual women. The primary outcome is the point prevalence of depression at 1 month postpartum, defined as scoring of 9 or higher on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine Ethics Committee (C1710) and Nagoya City University Certified Review Board (2024A007). Anonymised study results will be presented at conferences and published by the investigators in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

jRCTs042240162 (hospital-based, on-site trial) and jRCT1050250074 (nationwide online trial).

Prevalence of texting thumb among medical students and its association with behavioural patterns during digital device usage: a cross-sectional study

Por: Salameh · M. A. · Odeh · H. · Boyajian · S. D. · Amaireh · E. A. · Jaradat · E. · Bawardi · S. S. · AlTaamreh · B. · Al Haj Ali · N. S. · Madi · A.
Background

Teenagers widely use digital devices for information sharing and other daily activities. Their heavy reliance on smartphones and tablets may contribute to repetitive-use injuries of the thumb.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of texting thumb (TT) among medical students and to identify the potential associations between TT and behavioural patterns during digital device use.

Design, setting and participants

This cross-sectional study employed an online, self-developed questionnaire to assess demographic and behavioural patterns associated with smartphone use. Data on thumb pain and its features were evaluated for diagnostic purposes. This study comprised medical students from six medical schools in Jordan. Data were collected from 482 medical students, excluding those who did not meet the inclusion criteria.

Results

The prevalence of TT was 34%, predominantly on the right side (53%) and at the thumb base (69%). The findings suggest that TT was significantly associated with specific behavioural patterns, including supporting the forearm (p=0.026, adjusted OR: 1.611; 95% CI 1.059 to 2.449), number of texting per day (p=0.005, adjusted OR: 1.319; 95% CI 1.086 to 1.603) and studying hours per day using a digital device (p=0.002, adjusted OR: 1.586; 95% CI 1.193 to 2.109). Also, students’ attitudes toward thumb pain were significantly associated with the TT (p=0.005, adjusted OR: 1.351; 95% CI 1.094 to 1.668).

Conclusion

Students’ attention to behavioural patterns is crucial when using digital devices. Supporting the forearm, limiting text message use, avoiding prolonged use of digital devices, never ignoring hand pain and resting the hand significantly reduce the risk of thumb overuse injury.

Chrysin ameliorates methotrexate-induced hippocampal neurogenesis impairment by suppressing of oxidative stress and upregulating antioxidant enzyme activity in rodents

by Tanaporn Anosri, Soraya Kaewngam, Ram Prajit, Kornrawee Suwannakot, Nataya Sritawan, Anusara Aranarochana, Wanassanan Pannangrong, Jariya Umka Welbat, Peter Wigmore, Apiwat Sirichoat

Methotrexate (MTX) is used in treating several malignancies. However, MTX neurotoxicity remains a significant clinical side effect, leading to cell division malformation, and neurogenesis impairment. Chrysin, a flavonoid compound found in natural products, demonstrates various biological characteristics, including neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the ameliorative effect of chrysin on oxidative damage and neurogenesis impairment caused by MTX. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups, including the vehicle, MTX (75 mg/kg), chrysin (10 mg/kg), and chrysin+MTX groups. Chrysin was orally administered for 15 days. MTX was administered intravenously on days 8 and 15. The hippocampal neural stem cells were evaluated using sex determining region Y-box 2 (sox2) and nestin immunofluorescence staining. Antioxidant enzyme expression and the levels of oxidative stress marker were assessed. Additionally, the expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), cAMP-response element binding (CREB), and phosphorylated CREB (pCREB) were evaluated using Western blotting. Results showed that MTX significantly decreased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and produced oxidative stress. MTX also impaired neurogenesis, evidenced by decreased sox2 and nestin-positive cells and decreased expression of Nrf2, BDNF, CREB, and pCREB in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. However, chrysin significantly reversed the effects of MTX on these parameters. In conclusion, chrysin exhibits neuroprotective effects against MTX-induced neurogenesis impairment by upregulating antioxidant enzyme activity, reducing oxidative stress, and improving protein expression related to neurogenesis.

Midwives' Perception Towards Male Partners' Involvement in Labour Companionship: A Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT

Background

Labour companionship is a recommendation by WHO that health authorities enable women to choose a companion during labour to ensure a safe and dignified labour experience for the birthing woman. However, most healthcare facilities in low- and middle-income countries do not necessarily consider this maternal need, which hampers a positive maternal experience during labour.

Objective

This study aims to examine midwives' perception towards the involvement of male partners in labour companionship.

Methods

An exploratory phenomenological approach was chosen and semi-structured interviews were used for this study.

Results

The four main themes identified in this study include ‘Understanding of male partners' involvement in labour companionship’, ‘Involvement of midwives in decision-making’, ‘Barriers to male partners' involvement in labour companionship’ and ‘Facilitators of male partners' involvement in labour companionship’.

Conclusion and Implications

This study found a lack of understanding among midwives of the significance of male partners' involvement in labour companionship; and the identification of hierarchical and authoritarian leadership as a barrier to midwives' participation in decision-making highlights the need for transformational leadership styles to empower midwives. Overall, the findings of this study can inform maternity care policy as well as resource development, education and professional training in the field of midwifery.

Supporting Independent Living Among Individuals With Dementia Who Live Alone: A Qualitative Study With Home‐Visit Nurses

ABSTRACT

Aims

To elucidate the essential strategies used by home-visit nurses to support the independence of individuals with dementia who live alone.

Design

Qualitative interview study employing the Interpretive Description methodology.

Methods

Purposive sampling was conducted across three home-visit nursing offices in Tokyo. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 home-visit nurses between June and August 2022. The interviews explored the strategies the participants employed while caring for individuals with dementia living alone. The transcribed data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four strategies were identified: Strategy 1. Cultivating a relationship of trust to manage client refusal, Strategy 2. Fostering a balance between client and practical realities, Strategy 3. Optimising limited support resources and Strategy 4. Educating and advocating for a lack of understanding among supporters.

Conclusion

Home-visit nurses incorporate their standard practices into four strategies at both the direct care and support network levels to support independent living of individuals with dementia living alone. These strategies address the challenge of balancing autonomy with safety and health protection, which is a key consideration in supporting this population.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

The findings provide guidance for home-visit nursing practice and inform the development of educational programmes to enhance their training.

Impact

This study advances understanding of how home-visit nurses navigate the challenges of autonomy, safety and health for people with dementia living alone, offering insights to inform future research and educational initiatives.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.

Prevalence of asthma and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, and their association with health-related quality-of-life: a cross-sectional study among a cohort of Sri Lankan adolescents

Por: Kumari · M. V. · Rajapakse · S. · Mohamed · S. · Devanarayana · N. · Rajindrajith · S. · Amarasiri · L.
Objective

This study assessed the associations between asthma, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) among adolescents.

Design

A cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Six randomly selected schools across all five educational zones of the Anuradhapura district in Sri Lanka.

Participants

A total of 1127 adolescents aged 13–14 years were included from six randomly selected schools representing all five educational zones in the Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka.

Main outcome measures

Prevalence of asthma and GORD, the associations between asthma, GORD and HRQoL among adolescents in Sri Lanka.

Results

This study of 1127 adolescents (44.8% male, mean age 13.66±0.56 years) found that 16.1% (n=181) had current asthma and 17.9% (n=202) exhibited symptoms of GORD. A significant association was observed between current asthma and GORD (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.59 to 3.31, p=0.0005). Comorbidity of asthma and GORD was observed in 4.8% of participants (n=54). The total HRQoL score was not associated with asthma, GORD or those having both asthma and GORD. However, the presence of GORD was associated with poor emotional functioning (unstandardized regression coefficient ± standard error = -4.7±1.7, p=0.008).

Conclusion

Asthma and GORD were significantly associated among early adolescents in Sri Lanka. While overall HRQoL did not differ by disease status, the presence of GORD was associated with poorer emotional functioning.

Relationship Between Weight Loss and Problems With Oral Intake in Institutionalised Older Adults: A Japanese Multi‐Institutional 1‐Year Follow‐Up Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To examine the relationship between weight loss and problems with oral intake in institutionalised older adults.

Design

A 1-year longitudinal observational study.

Methods

Data were obtained from a prospective study conducted in three nursing homes and two long-term care facilities in Japan. Participants' problems with oral intake were assessed using items published in 2021 by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Baseline and follow-up factors were compared between individuals who experienced a weight loss of 5% or more and those who did not. Separate multivariable logistic regression models were constructed for each oral intake assessment item to examine its independent association with weight loss of 5% or more, accounting for transitions in each item between baseline and the 1-year follow-up.

Results

In total, 172 institutionalised older adults were included in the analysis. Among them, 57 (33.1%) participants experienced a weight decrease of 5% or more. The emergence of somnolence or clouding of consciousness during meals at the 1-year follow-up in participants without these signs at baseline was independently associated with a weight loss of 5% or more, after adjustment for baseline characteristics.

Conclusion

Recognising signs of somnolence or clouding of consciousness during meals may be useful for the early detection and prevention of weight loss in institutionalised older adults.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Early detection of individuals at risk is essential to prevent significant weight loss and its associated adverse outcomes. Recognising somnolence or clouding of consciousness during meals may enable earlier detection and intervention to prevent weight loss and improve the quality of care for older adults.

Reporting Method

Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Evaluating the effectiveness and acceptability of free door-to-door transport to increase the uptake of breast screening appointments in Yorkshire: a cluster randomised GP feasibility trial (DOORSTEP protocol)

Por: Haji Sadeghi · M. · Cohen · J. · Bamidele · O. · Roberts · H. · Williams · B. · Acaster · B. · Miles · H. · Huang · C. · Pitel · L. · Dawkins · B. · Abass · W. · Peacock · L. · Macleod · U. · Kelly · C.
Introduction

Breast screening uptake remains low in parts of the UK, partly due to barriers including limited transport access. Offering free transport to screening appointments may help address this and improve uptake. This general practitioner (GP) cluster-randomised feasibility trial will assess whether offering free door-to-door transport alongside routine screening invitations increases attendance.

Methods and analysis

Eight general practices in Yorkshire will be randomised to either the intervention (routine invitation plus information about booking free door-to-door transport) or control (routine invitation only) group. Around 8000 women due for routine breast screening will be included. Primary feasibility outcomes include GP recruitment and randomisation, intervention fidelity, proportion of women from the 10% most deprived areas, acceptability and data transfer processes. Secondary outcomes include understanding travel behaviour, cost-effectiveness and screening uptake. Data will be collected from routine National Health Service (NHS) screening records, data linkage with NHS England, travel surveys and qualitative interviews exploring experiences and acceptability. Patient and public involvement is embedded throughout with members contributing to advisory and oversight roles.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has received ethical approval from the London–Harrow Research Ethics Committee, Section 251 approval from the Confidentiality Advisory Group and other relevant regulatory bodies. The University of Hull is the study sponsor. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal publications, conference presentations and plain English summaries for participants and the public. Findings will inform the feasibility and design of a potential larger trial to improve breast screening uptake via transport support.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN17087898.

Femoral radiographic indices for pre-operative osteoporosis screening in postmenopausal female patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis

by Masanori Nishi, Yasushi Yoshikawa, Yuki Usui, Hajime Nishida, Shota Nakamura, Koichiro Tashiro, Yoshifumi Kudo

The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between femoral morphological indices from anteroposterior hip radiographs and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-assessed bone mineral density in postmenopausal female patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty for hip osteoarthritis. We also evaluated the impact of hip deformity on these correlations and the diagnostic cut-off values for osteoporosis. This retrospective study, conducted at a single institute (February 2018 to July 2024), reviewed the data of postmenopausal patients (>50 years old) with hip osteoarthritis who underwent total hip arthroplasty. Patients with a history of hip surgical procedures, infection, metabolic bone disease, or inadequate imaging findings were excluded. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to assess bone mineral density at the femoral neck, total hip, lumbar spine, and distal radius. Five femoral indices were measured: the canal-to-calcar ratio, canal flare index, cortical thickness index, canal diaphysis ratio, and canal bone area ratio. Analyses included Pearson’s correlation and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Moderate correlations were observed between total hip bone mineral density and indices in 95 hip osteoarthritic joints (all Tönnis grade 3) and 86 normal joints. The canal bone area ratio had the strongest correlation (hip osteoarthritis: r = −0.61; normal: r = −0.62; p 

Modelo de cuidado holístico de la gestación de las mujeres indígenas del pueblo de Los Pastos

El presente estudio fundamenta la construcción de un modelo de cuidado holístico e intercultural de las mujeres indígenas del Pueblo de los Pasto en el ciclo del embarazo, parto y puerperio; consta de cuatro elementos claves, la relación-tensión entre el conocimiento en salud y saber indígena, los actores que diversifican las formas de cuidado institucional y cultural, los escenarios de cuidado más allá de las instituciones de salud con implicación del saber étnico, la reivindicación de las percepciones, vivencias y experiencias de las mujeres y de las parteras reclamando un cuidado integral bajo la sinergia entre el saber científico y el étnico. La fundamentación fue resultado de un proceso hermenéutico en cuádruple vía- encuentro con ideas fuerza resultado de la revisión bibliográfica, priorización de marcos normativos exigentes de una atención humanizada y diferencial, el diálogo con mujeres gestantes y el reconocimiento invaluable de las parteras del pueblo de los Pastos. En ese sentido, la investigación se guio por el análisis e interpretación en doble vía, primero, interpretación bibliográfica de textos científicos, académicos y marcos normativos afines al estudio, y segundo, relatos y argumentos culturales obtenidos a través de entrevista, grupos focales y diálogos de saberes con mujeres y parteras.

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