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Ayer — Octubre 2nd 2025Tus fuentes RSS

Bacteria isolated from the grape phyllosphere capable of degrading guaiacol, a main volatile phenol associated with smoke taint in wine

by Claudia Castro, Jacquelyn Badillo, Melissa Tumen-Velasquez, Adam M. Guss, Thomas S. Collins, Frank Harmon, Devin Coleman-Derr

Recent wildfires near vineyards in the Pacific United States have caused devastating financial losses due to smoke taint in wine. When wine grapes (Vitis vinifera) are exposed to wildfire smoke, their berries absorb volatile phenols derived from the lignin of burning plant material. Volatile phenols are released during the winemaking process giving the finished wine an unpleasant, smokey, and ashy taste known as smoke taint. Bacteria are capable of undergoing a wide variety of metabolic processes and therefore present great potential for bioremediation applications in many industries. In this study, we identify two strains of the same species that colonize the grape phyllosphere and are able to degrade guaiacol, a main volatile phenol responsible for smoke taint in wine. We identify the suite of genes that enable guaiacol degradation in Gordonia alkanivorans via RNAseq of cells growing on guaiacol as a sole carbon source. Additionally, we knockout guaA, a cytochrome P450 gene involved in the conversion of guaiacol to catechol; ΔguaA cells cannot catabolize guaiacol in vitro, providing evidence that GuaA is necessary for this process. Furthermore, we analyze the microbiome of berries and leaves exposed to smoke in the vineyard to investigate the impact of smoke on the grape microbial community. We found smoke has a significant but small effect on the microbial community, leading to an enrichment of several genera belonging to the Bacilli class. Collectively, this research shows that studying microbes and their enzymes has the potential to identify novel tools for alleviating smoke taint.
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Scalability evaluation of a complex community-based falls prevention intervention in Australian stroke rehabilitation

Por: Lin · I. · Day · S. · Dean · C. M. · Clemson · L. M. · Glinsky · J. V. · Cusick · A. · Lannin · N. A. · Scrivener · K.
Objectives

To investigate the scalability of the multi-component Falls After Stroke Trial (FAST) intervention tailored to community-dwelling adults with stroke to enable post-trial implementation.

Design

A mixed-methods formative evaluation of FAST data guided by the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework.

Setting

Community settings across three states in Australia.

Participants

Stroke participants were a subset of FAST trial participants (n=50) who were community-dwelling adults who had experienced a stroke up to 5 years prior and were at risk of falling. Therapists who delivered the intervention in the trial (interventionists) were physiotherapists and occupational therapists, trained in the FAST intervention.

Interventions

The FAST intervention is an individually tailored home safety and functional exercise programme designed to reduce falls and improve community mobility. It is offered over a 6-month period using 10 home visits, two telephone calls and programme resources, for example, manual and worksheets.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Trial data, including interventionist training records and delivery data, resources and stroke participants’ adherence data were used to assess the Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance dimensions of the RE-AIM framework.

Results

The FAST intervention was delivered by 22 interventionists. High implementation fidelity was shown with 90% of the stroke participants receiving FAST dose and content. Effective strategies supporting implementation included standardised programme resources, comprehensive pre-programme training, regular interventionist feedback and interventionist mentoring from experts. Online training and peer support networks will be required for scale up.

Conclusions

This study identifies how a complex intervention to prevent falls after stroke was successfully delivered. The AIM dimensions provided insights to FAST features essential for scale-up. Interventionist training, resources and mentoring/feedback were essential for adoption within the trial. Training and resources should be accessible in an online format for scale up (maintenance).

Trial registration number

ACTRN12619001114134.

Wound Care Knowledge of Community Pharmacists and Pharmacy Staff: A Cross‐Sectional Survey

ABSTRACT

Chronic wounds pose a public health challenge, with community pharmacists increasingly recognised for their potential role in wound care. Since all chronic wounds originate from acute wounds, pharmacists can play a proactive role in preventing chronicity. Assessing pharmacy staff's wound care knowledge is essential as initiatives to enhance their involvement are underway in Australia. This study aimed to assess wound care knowledge among pharmacists and non-pharmacist staff in Australian community pharmacies. A national cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted between January and August 2022. Developed with multidisciplinary experts, it assessed understanding of wound healing, referral protocols, wound identification, management, and dressing selection. Descriptive and content analyses were performed, and multivariate linear regression identified predictors of knowledge scores. Of 120 responses, 70% were pharmacists, 14% non-pharmacist staff, and 16% unspecified. The median knowledge score was 27 out of 37 (IQR = 21, 30; range = 5–37). Profession, experience, and prior training were significant predictors of higher scores (p < 0.001, R 2 = 0.347). Dressing knowledge was weakest, with only 10 out of 103 respondents (9.7%) correctly identifying all types and applications. Critical knowledge gaps underscore the need for targeted educational interventions for pharmacy staff.

Hidden barriers to leadership: a cross-sectional survey of prevalence and predictors of Imposter Phenomenon in Trauma and Orthopaedic surgery in the UK

Por: Kamran Siddiqui · Z. · Tomlinson · J. · Scantlebury · A. · Jayasuriya · R. · Church · H. · Grove · A.
Objectives

Imposter Phenomenon is characterised by persistent self-doubt despite objective success. It has been associated with anxiety, burnout and reduced job satisfaction. Little is known about imposter phenomenon’s presence and impact in Trauma and Orthopaedic surgery. This study aims to determine the prevalence and predictors of Imposter Phenomenon among UK orthopaedic surgeons, further mapping domains that affect leadership and professional development.

Design

Cross-sectional survey using the validated Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale (CIPS).

Setting

The survey was distributed to UK orthopaedic surgeons between 20 October 2023 and 28 February 2024 via Training Programme Directors and the British Orthopaedic Association.

Participants

Orthopaedic trainees and consultant surgeons (n=441)

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Imposter Phenomenon severity measured using CIPS (mild: 41–60, moderate: 61–80 and severe: 81–100). Univariate and multivariate analyses identified predictors of this severity. Self-reported impact of Imposter Phenomenon assessed across personal and leadership domains.

Results

92% of respondents reported moderate to intense Imposter Phenomenon symptoms (mean CIPS=65.17). Trainees had significantly higher mean scores (70.64±13.85) compared with consultants (59.82±15.71). Female surgeons reported significantly higher mean scores (72.57±13.35) than male surgeons (61.19±15.74). Female gender, non-consultant training grade and time out of training were predictors of severity (p

Conclusion

The Imposter Phenomenon is highly prevalent among UK orthopaedic surgeons; disproportionately affecting women, trainees and those taking career breaks. Imposter Phenomenon significantly impacts leadership aspirations and career development, potentially contributing to reduced diversity in surgical leadership. Targeted interventions addressing Imposter Phenomenon are needed to support equitable leadership development in Trauma and Orthopaedic surgery.

Transcranial direct current stimulation combined with physical exercise in knee osteoarthritis: a protocol for a randomised controlled clinical trial

Por: Lima · V. B. · Silva · C. A. M. · Silva · S. G. D. d. · Macedo · L. d. B. · de Souza · M. C. · Lins · C. A. d. A. · de Souza · C. G.
Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative and progressive joint condition causing pain and disability. Physical exercise is recognised as the most effective intervention since individuals with this condition often experience muscle weakness, balance deficits and chronic pain. Additionally, knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is associated with central sensitisation, contributing to chronic pain conditions. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive neuromodulation technique, has been employed to induce changes in pain perception by altering cortical excitability, potentially reducing chronic pain.

Methods and analysis

This is a protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Participants will be allocated to two groups: G1 (active tDCS combined with exercise) and G2 (sham tDCS combined with exercise). The intervention protocol will last for 5 weeks, with two sessions per week on non-consecutive days. Pain intensity will be assessed as the primary outcome using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). The sample size was calculated based on a minimum clinically important difference of 3 points on the NRS between groups, with a statistical power of 80% and a significance level of 5%. Secondary outcomes will include physical function and global perceived change.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Trairi School of Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (Approval Number: 6.801.827), and it is in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki for human research. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific events. This trial is registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry.

Trial registration number

Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (RBR-5pb2g33).

Action design research to develop an interactive dashboard to visualise and compare patient data from Irish general practice (CARA)

Por: Vornhagen · H. · Garzon-Orjuela · N. · Stasiewicz · K. · Garcia Pereira · A. · Parveen · S. · Porwol · L. · Collins · C. · Blake · C. · Vellinga · A.
Objective

A dashboard was developed with and for Irish general practitioners (GPs) to improve their understanding of practice data. The aim of this study was to design and develop interactive CARA dashboards to enable Irish GPs to visualise patient data and compare their data with other practices.

Design

An interpretivist qualitative approach was taken to create a deeper understanding of how GPs view and engage with data. It included four stages: (a) problem formulation, (b) building, intervention and evaluation, (c) reflection and learning and (d) formalisation of learning. The process included interviews to explore what type of information GPs need, as well as iterative testing of the CARA dashboard prototype.

Setting

General practice.

Participants

GPs, design experts and domain experts (antibiotic prescribing and stewardship).

Results

Key challenges identified from the interviews (context, sense-making, audits, relevance, action, engagement and ease of use) formed the basis for developing the CARA dashboard prototype. The first exemplar dashboard focused on antibiotic prescribing to develop and showcase the proposed platform, including automated audit reports, filters (within-practice) and between-practice comparisons, as well as a visual overview of practice demographics. The design thinking approach helped to capture and build an understanding of the GPs’ perspectives and identify unmet needs. This approach benefits the quality improvement methodology commonly adopted across healthcare, which aims to understand the process, not the users.

Conclusions

The development of a useful dashboard is based on two key elements: users’ requirements and their continued involvement in the development of content and overall design decisions. The next step will be an incremental inclusion of GPs using the dashboard and an exploratory study on dashboard engagement. Additional dashboards, such as for chronic disease, will be developed.

Global Health Immersions in Nursing Education: Evaluating Impact and Recommendations for Programming

ABSTRACT

Aim

Global health immersion programming is cited as supporting nursing students' cultural competency; it is also historically grounded in colonialism. This study explored nursing students' perspectives on the benefits and challenges of global health immersions. Programming suggestions are based on student feedback and immersion literature.

Design

Qualitative, cross-sectional.

Methods

Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with nursing students who participated in global health immersions. Interviews were inductively coded for recurring themes, focusing on immersion benefits, challenges, and impact on nursing practice.

Results

Participants reported enriched cultural humility, deepened integration into local healthcare systems, and enhanced understandings of disparities. In clinical practice, participants described being galvanised to provide culturally respectful care, strengthening communication, valuing holistic care, desiring to promote health equity, and appreciating resources. Challenges included communication barriers, ethical concerns, and insufficient preparatory guidance. Challenges and suggestions for improvement are aligned with evidence-based recommendations for ethical immersion programming.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of immersions to advance culturally sensitive, equity-centred healthcare. It identifies areas for growth and solutions to challenges through evidence-based recommendations. Future research should invite feedback from collaborating international communities to understand programme impact and ensure mutual benefit.

Reporting Method

SRQR guidelines.

Patient/Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement in study design, conduct, or reporting.

Improving Access and Recruitment to Clinical Trials for Lung Cancer Patients: A Multi‐Phase, Qualitative Focus Group and Co‐Production Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To design and develop a novel co-produced intervention tool aimed at facilitating discussions that lung cancer nurses have with lung cancer patients about clinical trial opportunities; and promote trial recruitment.

Design

A multi-phase qualitative focus group (phase 1) and co-production (phase 2) study.

Methods

The rigorous design and content of the intervention tool was informed by qualitative data from seven focus groups with lung cancer healthcare professionals (n = 38) and patients and their carers (n = 22) to establish barriers and facilitators to clinical trial participation. Data collection took place across England and Scotland between October and December 2023. Findings from a previously published systematic review were also incorporated to inform intervention tool design. The tool was developed through an extended co-production workshop comprising lung cancer nurses (n = 7), lung cancer patients (n = 2) and health researchers (n = 4). The COM-B model of behavioural change underpinned both phases of the project to guide tool development.

Results

Phase 1 focus groups identified the need for a tool to provide basic trial information to patients, and to support lung cancer nurses in discussing trials with patients, thus improving nurses' knowledge, confidence, and awareness of trials. The phase 2 coproduction workshop identified that the tool should consist of two elements: a patient-facing information pamphlet and a large poster for nurses to assist them in discussing trial opportunities.

Conclusion

The study results demonstrate how nurses can be supported to discuss clinical trial opportunities with patients, with the potential to increase long-term recruitment to clinical trials.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Lung cancer nurses often lack confidence to support patients to make informed choices about trial enrolment. By addressing this issue, participation in lung cancer clinical trials can be significantly improved to benefit patient outcomes and trial participation rates.

Impact

The tool has the potential to be used across a range of different cancer settings and sites to increase recruitment to clinical trials.

Reporting Method

The COREQ checklist was utilised to ensure that robust processes were followed and reported on.

Patient and Public Involvement

Patients and members of the public were involved in all study processes and contributed to the study design, interpretation of the data, and intervention design. Their contributions included reviewing focus group topic guides, reviewing data analysis, the co-production of the intervention tool, and co-authoring this paper, ensuring the research addressed the needs and priorities of lung cancer patients when making an informed choice about clinical trial participation.

Expression of human A53T alpha-synuclein without endogenous rat alpha-synuclein fails to elicit Parkinson’s disease-related phenotypes in a novel humanized rat model

by Nicole K. Polinski, Jukka Puoliväli, Leena Rauhala, Taina-Kaisa Stenius, Timo Bragge, Teija Parkkari, Anna-Maija Penttinen, Yi Chen, Omar S. Mabrouk, Kelly E. Glajch, Warren D. Hirst, Michael Perkinton, Terina N. Martinez, Mark A. Frasier

Alpha-synuclein (aSyn) is linked to Parkinson’s disease (PD) through SNCA genetic mutations, phosphorylated aSyn in Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, and most recently through evidence of aSyn aggregation in patient spinal fluid using the aSyn seed amplification assay. Therefore, understanding the biology of this protein and developing therapeutic interventions targeting pathological processing of aSyn are a key area of focus for novel treatments to slow or stop PD. Reliable preclinical models are imperative for these efforts. To this end, we developed a novel model using CRISPR/Cas9 to humanize the regions surrounding the naturally occurring threonine 53 amino acid in the Sprague Dawley rat to generate a humanized A53T aSyn rat model (aSyn A53T KI). We also generated an Snca knockout (aSyn KO) line to pair with the humanized A53T aSyn rat line to confirm that phenotypes were not due to loss of endogenous rat aSyn protein. A systematic phenotyping study was performed on these lines, assessing PD-related pathology and phenotypes at multiple timepoints. The aSyn KO rat line was profiled at 6 and 12 months of age, revealing successful aSyn protein knockout. The aSyn A53T KI model was profiled at 4, 8, 12, and 18 months of age for motor and non-motor phenotypes, nigrostriatal degeneration, and brain pathology. We confirmed the aSyn A53T KI rat expresses human aSyn while lacking endogenous rat aSyn. Motor function and non-motor function remain largely unaffected in this model, and no overt nigrostriatal degeneration or brain pathology are observed up to 18 months of age. Although the aSyn A53T KI rat lacks the ability to model PD pathology and phenotypes at baseline, it is an ideal model for investigating the impact of exogenous synuclein aggregates or environmental triggers on human aSyn in an in vivo model system.

Socioeconomic and demographic predictors of extracurricular achievements among UK medical students (FAST study)

Por: Ferreira · T. · Collins · A. M. · Handscomb · A. · French · B. · Bolton · E. · Fortescue · A. · Plumb · E. · Feng · O. · The FAST Collaborative · Fallows · Valnarov-Boulter · Kuo · Sagdeo · McDermott · Luo · Wong · Fitzsimons-West · Ho · Hemayet · Sreekumar · Burley · Stavrinou · Lew
Objective

To investigate the relationship between demographic characteristics and extracurricular achievements among UK medical students.

Design

National, cross-sectional survey.

Setting

All 44 UK medical schools recognised by the General Medical Council.

Participants

8,395 medical students.

Outcomes

Binary indicators of extracurricular engagement, including PubMed-indexed authorship, academic presentations, quality improvement projects, leadership roles and academic prizes. Logistic regression models were used to explore associations with demographic and extracurricular achievement predictors.

Results

Logistic regression analysis showed that students from private schools (OR 1.35, CI 1.20 to 1.53, p

Conclusions

Significant disparities in extracurricular achievement exist among UK medical students, principally associated with gender, private schooling and familial links to medicine. Apparent ethnic differences were largely attenuated after adjustment for other variables, indicating socioeconomic factors as stronger predictors of engagement. Given the role of these achievements in postgraduate selection, targeted interventions by medical schools and professional bodies to widen access to funding, mentorship and structured guidance for all students, regardless of perceived advantage, may support equitable opportunity without undermining merit-based standards.

Specialty choices among UK medical students: certainty, confidence and key influences--a national survey (FAST Study)

Por: Ferreira · T. · Collins · A. M. · Handscomb · A. · French · B. · Bolton · E. · Fortescue · A. · Plumb · E. · Feng · O. · the FAST Collaborative · Fallows · Valnarov-Boulter · Kuo · Sagdeo · McDermott · Luo · Wong · Fitzsimons-West · Ho · Hemayet · Sreekumar · Burley · Stavrinou · Lew
Objective

To explore factors influencing UK medical students’ specialty choices and examine variations in these influences across demographic groups and stages of training.

Design

National, cross-sectional online survey.

Setting

All 44 UK medical schools recognised by the General Medical Council.

Participants

8,395 medical students.

Primary and secondary outcomes

The primary outcome was the specialty preferences of UK medical students. The secondary outcomes were factors behind these preferences and how these factors vary across demographic groups and different stages of training.

Results

General Practice (15.3%), Paediatrics (10.6%) and Anaesthetics (9.9%) were the most preferred specialties among final-year students. Work-life balance (84.1%), compatibility with family life (78.2%), positive training experiences (85.2%) and future specialty outlook (74.9%) were key factors influencing specialty choice. Only 23.1% of students felt confident about securing a specialty training post, with confidence higher among males (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.52, p

Conclusions

This study highlights disparities in specialty preferences and influencing factors among UK medical students. A focus on improving career guidance, exposure to various specialties and supporting equitable access to training opportunities is essential for fostering a motivated and sustainable medical workforce.

Tommys National Rainbow Clinic Study: a protocol for a multi-site cohort study to evaluate a specialist antenatal service for women and families following a stillbirth or neonatal death

Por: Barron · R. L. · Tomlinson · E. · Bailey · E. · Heazell · A. E.
Introduction

In the UK, each year, approximately 2250 babies are stillborn, and there are an additional 1150 neonatal deaths. The death of a baby before or shortly after birth is a profoundly distressing experience for women and their families and is invariably followed by a period of grief. Most women who have experienced the loss of a baby will embark on another pregnancy, usually within a year. Parents need specialist support from doctors and midwives in a future pregnancy to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications and meet care and support needs. The Rainbow Clinic aims to meet these needs and was first established in 2013 at Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester. Initial studies have shown that this model of care improves pregnancy outcomes, decreases anxiety levels and is associated with a strong social return on investment. The Tommy’s National Rainbow Clinic Study aims to evaluate the care provided within this new model, to examine women’s experiences of care and identify areas of improvement and measure the impact on pregnancy outcomes for mothers and babies.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective cohort study, measuring a range of maternal and neonatal outcomes following care in Rainbow Clinic. The primary outcome measure is the frequency of stillbirth in the subsequent pregnancy. Measures of maternal well-being include maternal anxiety and psychological symptoms (assessed using Generalised Anxiety Disorder 2-item screening tool (GAD-2), the Cambridge Worry Scale and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale). Women’s experiences of attending Rainbow Clinic will be recorded on a standardised patient experience tool. Data will be collected on resource use, including the number of appointments with health professionals and the number of ultrasound scans performed. Up to 2000 participants are expected to be enrolled in this study.

Ethics and planned dissemination

This study was given a favourable ethical opinion by the South Central—Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee (Reference 20/SC/0180). The results will be presented at international conferences and published in peer-reviewed open-access journals. Information from this study will inform the development and evaluation of models of specialist antenatal care for pregnancies after stillbirth and neonatal death.

Trial registration number

The study is registered with the clinicaltrials.gov under the registration number NCT04393259.

Clinical evaluation of adults undergoing elective surgery utilizing intraoperative incisional wound irrigation (CLEAN Wound): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Roke · R. · Lillie · E. · Daneman · N. · Mason · S. A. · Tomlinson · G. · Jiang · Y. · Shiroky · J. · Puran · S. · Smith · D. E. · Abou Khalil · J. · Kayssi · A. · Serrano · P. E. · Pinchuk · B. · Apte · S. S. · Lamb · T. · Ma · G. · Vogt · K. · Leslie · K. · Mutabdzic · D. · Gomez · D. · Ladh
Introduction

In moderate to high-risk surgical procedures, 15–25% of patients develop a postoperative surgical site infection. Intraoperative incisional wound irrigation has the potential to reduce surgical site infections, and additional randomised controlled trials are required to provide evidence of effectiveness.

Methods and analysis

This protocol describes a pragmatic, adaptive, participant and adjudicator-blinded trial at 13 sites in Canada in up to 2500 participants. Participants planned for surgery with an abdominal or groin incision, who are eligible and provide verbal consent through an integrated consent model, are randomised to receive intraoperative incisional wound irrigation with povidone-iodine, saline or no irrigation. The primary outcome is surgical site infection within 30 days postoperatively. Secondary outcomes include quality of life measured 30 days postoperatively and morbidity, mortality and healthcare utilisation within 90 days postoperatively.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the research ethics board at the participating centres and stopped enrolling participants on May 23, 2025. All participants will provide verbal consent. Results will be disseminated via presentation at conferences, publication and posted on clinicaltrials.gov.

Trial registration number

The study is registered with http://clinicaltrial.gov (NCT04548661; 14 September 2020).

Development of START-EDI guidelines for reporting equality, diversity and inclusion in research: a study protocol

Por: Fadel · M. G. · Kettley-Linsell · H. · Boshier · P. R. · Barnes · R. · Newby · C. · Manyara · A. M. · Buckle · P. · Vyas · D. A. · Hepburn · J. · Edgar-Jones · P. · Rai · T. · Nicholson · B. D. · Cross · A. J. · Sharples · L. D. · Hopewell · S. · Cohen · J. F. · Welch · V. · Bossuyt · P.
Introduction

Acknowledging equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in research is not only a moral imperative but also an important step in avoiding bias and ensuring generalisability of results. This protocol describes the development of STAndards for ReporTing EDI (START-EDI) in research, which will provide a set of minimum standards to help researchers improve their consistency, completeness and transparency in EDI reporting. We anticipate that these guidelines will benefit authors, reviewers, editors, funding organisations, healthcare providers, patients and the public.

Methods and analysis

To create START-EDI reporting guidelines, the following five stages are proposed: (i) establish a diverse, multidisciplinary Steering Committee that will lead and coordinate guideline development; (ii) a systematic review to identify the essential principles and methodological approaches for EDI to generate preliminary checklist items; (iii) conduct an international Delphi process to reach a consensus on the checklist items; (iv) finalise the reporting guidelines and create a separate explanation and elaboration document; and (v) broad dissemination and implementation of START-EDI guidelines. We will work with patient and public involvement representatives and under-served groups in research throughout the project stages.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received ethical approval from the Imperial College London Research Ethics Committee (study ID: 7592283). The reporting guidelines will be published in open access peer-reviewed publications and presented in international conferences, and disseminated through community networks and forums.

Trial registration number

The project is pre-registered within the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/8udbq/) and the Enhancing the Quality and Transparency of Health Research Network.

Impact of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure on clinical outcomes in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (Hunter LVEDP Study): a prospective, single-centre study

Por: Khan · A. A. · Williams · T. · Ray · M. · Al-Omary · M. S. · Taylor · J. · Collins · N. · Attia · J. · Boyle · A. J.
Objectives

Elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has been studied in patients who received thrombolysis or who were treated early in the primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) era; LVEDP was found to be a predictor of adverse outcomes in these retrospective post hoc analyses. The aim of the current analysis is to assess the prognostic value of the elevated LVEDP in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI in current contemporary practice.

Design

Prospective, single-centre study.

Participants

Our study enrolled STEMI patients with elevated LVEDP undergoing primary PCI at John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia.

Primary outcome measure

The primary endpoint was the combination of 12-month all-cause mortality and heart failure admissions, comparing different quartiles of LVEDP.

Results

A total of 997 patients underwent primary PCI at our hospital during the 5-year study period (age: 64±13 years, males: 73%; n=728) from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2019. The median LVEDP for the whole cohort was 27 mm Hg (IQR: 22–31 mm Hg). The median LVEDP was 17 mm Hg (IQR: 13–18 mm Hg) and 33 mm Hg (IQR: 30–36 mm Hg) for 1st and 4th quartiles respectively (p

Conclusions

LVEDP is an independent predictor of adverse outcomes in STEMI patients, despite a relatively normal LVEF. Further prospective studies are needed to assess the effects of early reduction in LVEDP on the prognosis.

Efficacy of cashew nut protein immunotherapy: protocol for a single-centre randomised controlled trial in a Polish paediatric population

Por: Szczukocka · A. · Pietrzyk-Kozinska · M. · Zielinska · J. · Krupa-Łaska · A. · Krejner-Bienias · A. · Kulus · M. · Grzela · K.
Introduction

The prevalence of food allergies, particularly IgE-mediated allergies, is rising in developed countries, with cashew nut allergy emerging as a significant public health concern due to its potential for severe anaphylaxis and frequent association with atopic disorders. Cashew nuts are among the most common allergens in Europe and Australia, often involving cosensitisation with pistachios, hazelnuts and other allergens. Diagnosis relies on clinical history, measurement of specific IgE (sIgE) levels, skin prick tests (SPT) and oral food challenges (OFCs). Current management strategies focus on allergen avoidance and emergency interventions, whereas oral immunotherapy (OIT) represents a promising approach to desensitisation. Recent studies, including the NUT CRACKER trial, have reported high desensitisation rates with cashew OIT, although these are associated with a risk of adverse events. This study introduces a novel randomised controlled trial aimed at evaluating the efficacy and safety of cashew immunotherapy in children.

Methods and analysis

This randomised, open-label, parallel-group trial, with a 2:1 allocation ratio, will be conducted at the Department of Paediatric Pneumology and Allergology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland. Thirty-nine children, aged 4–17 years, with confirmed IgE-mediated cashew allergy via open OFC will be enrolled. Participants in the experimental group will undergo OIT, which involves gradually increasing doses of cashew protein up to a maintenance dose of 1200 mg. The duration of OIT will range from 12 to 60 weeks, depending on individual baseline tolerance. The control group will receive standard management, including strict cashew avoidance and emergency response strategies to accidental exposure, for 1 year.

The primary endpoint is to determine the proportion of participants tolerating a 4043 mg dose of cashew protein at the study’s end in the OIT group compared with the control group. Secondary outcomes include evaluating the safety profile of OIT, assessing changes in laboratory markers such as sIgE and IgG4 levels for cashew and the major cashew allergen Ana o 3, analysing basophil activation test responses and measuring changes in SPT wheal diameter at baseline and study completion.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical University of Warsaw (approval number: KB/267/2023). Study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT06328504.

The Impact of Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia Following the Completion of Treatment: A Descriptive Exploratory Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT

Aims

To explore women's experience of the period after completion of cancer treatment for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN): a descriptive exploratory study.

Design

A descriptive exploratory qualitative study.

Methods

Women diagnosed with the rare pregnancy-related cancer GTN who had completed their treatment participated in semi-structured telephone interviews. Twenty-two interviews were conducted in June 2024 and digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The analysis used reflective thematic analysis.

Results

Complex responses to treatment completion were revealed, described by some as a ‘double-edged sword’. The end of treatment routine, coupled with recovery from physical effects, left space for the impact of all they had experienced to ‘hit home’. Multiple concerns and losses were described, including issues relating to pregnancy, self-identity, confidence, fear of recurrence, work and relationships. Gaps in immediate post-treatment support services created challenges for recovery.

Conclusion

The study provides valuable insight into the physical, emotional and social impact of GTN experienced by patients following treatment. The findings highlight the importance of continuing support in the immediate post-treatment period. This study has identified ways in which services can be improved, recognising the need for an individual-tailored approach to reflect the complex responses of patients to treatment completion.

Impact

The findings reveal that many women begin to process the implications of their diagnosis and treatment following the completion of their treatment. The end of treatment can be a time when support from healthcare staff is reduced due to fewer routine contacts with healthcare staff. However, these findings suggest the need for nurses to ensure services continue to provide support during the post-treatment recovery phase.

Patient or Public Contribution

The interview schedule was reviewed by women previously treated for GTN.

Maternity Care Providers Perspectives and Experiences of Obstetric Violence in Low‐, Middle‐ and High‐Income Countries: An Integrative Review

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the perspectives and experiences of maternity care providers regarding obstetric violence across low-, middle-, and high-income countries.

Design

An integrative review of the literature.

Methods

A systematic literature search in CINAHL, Medline (via Ovid), SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library was conducted from 2014 to 2024. Further papers were identified through a review of the reference lists of identified studies and through email alerts from searched databases. Articles were appraised using the applicable Joanna Briggs Institute qualitative or cross-sectional critical appraisal tool.

Results

Title and abstract screen were undertaken on 2748 records. Fifty-four studies using qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods designs were included. Maternity providers across all socio-economic levels described witnessing, and/or involvement in both respectful care and incidents of obstetric violence. The most common forms of obstetric violence were verbal and physical abuse, coercion, unconsented and unnecessary interventions, and violations of privacy and autonomy. Women who were socially marginalised, impoverished, and illiterate were vulnerable to obstetric violence. Differences were noted between low- and high-income countries, with detention of women for non-payment, privacy violations due to building design and lack of space, mistreatment due to HIV status, and women who were considered non-compliant being more vulnerable to obstetric violence in low-and low-middle-income countries. Obstetric violence was justified and normalised in the name of saving the baby, with less focus on the psychological health of the mother.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that obstetric violence is a gender-based violence enabled through patriarchal structures and power imbalances. Maternity providers are witnessing or enacting obstetric violence across low-, middle- and high-income countries, with significant impacts on women and maternity care providers alike. This review highlights opportunities for further research and action to develop health and legal frameworks to prevent instances of obstetric violence and improve outcomes for women and maternity care providers.

Impact

A woman-centred approach underpinned by respectful maternity care has benefits for pregnant and birthing women. Obstetric violence, including verbal and physical abuse, coercion, and overmedicalisation, is prevalent in maternity services globally. This integrative review explored the perspectives and experiences of maternity care providers regarding obstetric violence across low-, middle-, and high-income countries. This review highlights the similarities and differences of witnessed, enacted, and perceived obstetric violence from the experience of maternity care providers. This review identifies the covert and overt nature of obstetric violence across low-, middle- and high-income countries. Gaining insight into provider perspectives across low-, middle-, and high-income countries may inform policy and practice reforms to eliminate obstetric violence and advance the provision of respectful maternity care.

Reporting Method

This integrative review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Acceptability, fidelity and implementation of systematic integrated pain management in oncology outpatient services: a process evaluation protocol for a multicentre clustered randomised pilot trial

Por: Robinson · O. C. · Day · F. · Boland · E. G. · Collinson · M. · Fallon · M. · Farrin · A. · Flemming · K. · Girvan · S. · Hartup · S. · Meads · D. · Hurlow · A. · Mayland · C. · ODwyer · J. · Pini · S. · Swinson · D. · Richards · S. H. · Mulvey · M. R.
Introduction

In the UK National Health Service (NHS), most people with cancer are cared for at oncology outpatient services, where there are no standardised procedures for managing pain. As a result, patients with cancer may receive inadequate care for pain. The Cancer Pain-assessment Toolkit for Use in RoutinE oncology outpatient services aims to assess the feasibility of conducting a multicentre cluster-randomised trial of a systematic pain assessment and management programme integrated within routine care at UK NHS oncology outpatient services. This protocol describes an embedded process evaluation that aims to evaluate the acceptability, fidelity and implementation of the intervention and trial procedures.

Methods and analysis

A combination of methods will be used in the process evaluation. Quantitative data on fidelity and intervention implementation will be collected using case report forms completed at sites, capturing details on training, intervention delivery and adherence. Qualitative data on acceptability and trial experience will be collected through semistructured interviews with intervention recipients (participants), intervention deliverers (healthcare professionals), research nurses and intervention champions. Researcher fieldnotes will also document trial acceptability throughout the trial. Quantitative data will be summarised descriptively. Qualitative data will be analysed using thematic analysis, guided by the framework of acceptability.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial received ethical approval from South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee and Health Research Authority (21/HRA/5245). Site-specific approvals were obtained from the research and innovation offices at Leeds Teaching Hospital and Hull Teaching Hospital. Trial findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and via participating sites.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN86926298.

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