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Associations between facial expressions and observational pain in residents with dementia and chronic pain

Abstract

Aim

To identify specific facial expressions associated with pain behaviors using the PainChek application in residents with dementia.

Design

This is a secondary analysis from a study exploring the feasibility of PainChek to evaluate the effectiveness of a social robot (PARO) intervention on pain for residents with dementia from June to November 2021.

Methods

Participants experienced PARO individually five days per week for 15 min (once or twice) per day for three consecutive weeks. The PainChek app assessed each resident's pain levels before and after each session. The association between nine facial expressions and the adjusted PainChek scores was analyzed using a linear mixed model.

Results

A total of 1820 assessments were completed with 46 residents. Six facial expressions were significantly associated with a higher adjusted PainChek score. Horizontal mouth stretch showed the strongest association with the score, followed by brow lowering parting lips, wrinkling of the nose, raising of the upper lip and closing eyes. However, the presence of cheek raising, tightening of eyelids and pulling at the corner lip were not significantly associated with the score. Limitations of using the PainChek app were identified.

Conclusion

Six specific facial expressions were associated with observational pain scores in residents with dementia. Results indicate that automated real-time facial analysis is a promising approach to assessing pain in people with dementia. However, it requires further validation by human observers before it can be used for decision-making in clinical practice.

Impact

Pain is common in people with dementia, while assessing pain is challenging in this group. This study generated new evidence of facial expressions of pain in residents with dementia. Results will inform the development of valid artificial intelligence-based algorithms that will support healthcare professionals in identifying pain in people with dementia in clinical situations.

Reporting Method

The study adheres to the CONSORT reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

One resident with dementia and two family members of people with dementia were consulted and involved in the study design, where they provided advice on the protocol, information sheets and consent forms, and offered valuable insights to ensure research quality and relevance.

Trial Registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number (ACTRN12621000837820).

Traducción y adaptación cultural de una escala biosanitaria: acercándonos a la pluralidad lingüística

Objetivo. Describir cómo traducir y adaptar culturalmente una escala biosanitaria. Metodología. Se han sintetizado guías y artículos en una guía sencilla. Resultados. Para realizar una traducción validada se deben seguir unos pasos consecutivos. Es un desafío, pero permite utilizar herramientas adaptadas al contexto cultural y lingüístico, contribuyendo a generar conocimiento científico sólido y comparativo.

ABSTRACT

Objective. To describe the translating and cultural adaptation of a biosanitary scale. Methodology. The guides and articles have been synthesized in a simple guide. Results. To carry out a validated translation, a series of steps must be followed. It is a challenge, but it allows the use of adapted evaluation tools for the cultural and linguistic context, contributing to generate solid and comparative scientific knowledge.

Intraorbital pressure–volume characteristics in a piglet model: In vivo pilot study

by Yasin Hamarat, Laimonas Bartusis, Vilma Putnynaite, Rolandas Zakelis, Mantas Deimantavicius, Vilma Zigmantaite, Ramunė Grigaleviciute, Audrius Kucinskas, Evaldas Kalvaitis, Arminas Ragauskas

Intracranial pressure measurement is frequently used for diagnosis in neurocritical care but cannot always accurately predict neurological deterioration. Intracranial compliance plays a significant role in maintaining cerebral blood flow, cerebral perfusion pressure, and intracranial pressure. This study’s objective was to investigate the feasibility of transferring external pressure into the eye orbit in a large-animal model while maintaining a clinically acceptable pressure gradient between intraorbital and external pressures. The experimental system comprised a specifically designed pressure applicator that can be placed and tightly fastened onto the eye. A pressure chamber made from thin, elastic, non-allergenic film was attached to the lower part of the applicator and placed in contact with the eyelid and surrounding tissues of piglets’ eyeballs. External pressure was increased from 0 to 20 mmHg with steps of 1 mmHg, from 20 to 30 mmHg with steps of 2 mmHg, and from 30 to 50 mmHg with steps of 5 mmHg. An invasive pressure sensor was used to measure intraorbital pressure directly. An equation was derived from measured intraorbital and external pressures (intraorbital pressure = 0.82 × external pressure + 3.12) and demonstrated that external pressure can be linearly transferred to orbit tissues with a bias (systematic error) of 3.12 mmHg. This is close to the initial intraorbital pressure within the range of pressures tested. We determined the relationship between intraorbital compliance and externally applied pressure. Our findings indicate that intraorbital compliance can be controlled across a wide range of 1.55 to 0.15 ml/mmHg. We observed that external pressure transfer into the orbit can be achieved while maintaining a clinically acceptable pressure gradient between intraorbital and external pressures.

Cohort profile: The Scottish SHARE Mental Health (SHARE-MH) cohort - linkable survey, genetic and routinely collected data for mental health research

Por: Iveson · M. H. · Ball · E. L. · Doherty · J. · Pugh · C. · Vashishta · S. · Palmer · C. N. A. · McIntosh · A.
Purpose

The SHARE Mental Health (SHARE-MH) cohort was established to address the paucity of clinical and genetic data available for mental health research. The cohort brings together detailed mental health questionnaire responses, routinely collected electronic health data and genetic data to provide researchers with an unprecedented linkable dataset. This combination of data sources allows researchers to track mental health longitudinally, across multiple settings. It will be of interest to researchers investigating the genetic and environmental determinants of mental health, the experiences of those interacting with healthcare services, and the overlap between self-reported and clinically derived mental health outcomes.

Participants

The cohort consists of individuals sampled from the Scottish Health Research Register (SHARE). To register for SHARE, individuals had to be over the age of 16 years and living in Scotland. Cohort participants were recruited by email and invited to take part in an online mental health survey. When signing up for SHARE, participants also provided written consent to the use of their electronic health records and genetic data—derived from spare blood samples—for research purposes.

Findings to date

From 5 February 2021 to 27 November 2021, 9829 individuals completed a survey of various mental health topics, capturing information on symptoms, diagnoses, impact and treatment. Survey responses have been made linkable to electronic health records and genetic data using a single patient identifier. Linked data have been used to describe the cohort in terms of their demographics, self-reported mental health, inpatient and outpatient hospitalisations and dispensed prescriptions.

Future plans

The cohort will be improved through linkage to a broader variety of routinely collected data and to increasing amounts of genetic data obtained through blood sample diversion. We see the SHARE-MH cohort being used to drive forward novel areas of mental health research and to contribute to global efforts in psychiatric genetics.

Evaluating the long-term impact of large-scale trainings: an exposure based cross-sectional study on female genital mutilation-related knowledge, attitudes and practices among Sudanese midwives in Khartoum State

Por: Ahmed · W. · Abdelrahim · M. · Gloyd · S. · Farquhar · C. · Puttkammer · N.
Objectives

To examine the long-term impact of large-scale training targeting midwives in a setting where they are the main female genital mutilation (FGM) practitioners. We hypothesised that trained midwives would have significantly higher knowledge, greater opposition to midwives’ involvement in this practice, and improved clinical practice in FGM prevention and care compared with non-trained midwives.

Design

We conducted an exposure based cross-sectional study, using closed-ended and open-ended questions during phone interviews.

Setting

Khartoum State in Sudan has a high prevalence of FGM (88%) mainly performed by midwives.

Participants

Midwives who received (n=127) and did not receive FGM training (n=55).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

We developed primary outcomes aligned to the three levels (reaction, learning and behaviour) of Kirkpatrick’s training evaluation model for descriptive and multivariable analyses in Stata.

Results

All the midwives interviewed were female, mostly village midwives (92%) and worked in health centres (89%). The mean age and midwifery experience was 51 years (SD=10) and 23 years (SD=12), respectively. Overall, most midwives (>90%) reported being supportive of FGM discontinuation. Midwives who had FGM training were more aware that performing FGM violates code of conduct (p=0.001) and reported to always counsel patients to abandon FGM (p

Conclusion

Though past trainings were associated with higher knowledge and greater opposition to midwives’ involvement in FGM, this was not translated into appropriate corrective clinical procedures among affected women during labour. The Sudan Ministry of Health invested heavily in training midwives and it would be important to investigate why trained midwives do not implement recommended FGM-related clinical management.

Epidemiological characteristics of suspected adenomyosis in the Chinese physical examination population: a nested case-control study

Por: Huang · Y. · Su · X. · Chen · K. · Zhang · L. · Xu · W. · Pu · Y. · Xu · F. · Gong · R. · Zhang · J. · Nie · Y. · Shi · Q.
Objectives

We aimed to explore the epidemiological characteristics of suspected adenomyosis within a physical examination population in China.

Design

A retrospective, nested case-control study; we matched healthy people and those with potential adenomyosis on a 1:2 ratio by age.

Setting

A tertiary hospital health management centre.

Participants

We included 15–60 years old women who underwent at least one uterine examination from October 2017 to December 2020, excluding those who had undergone hysterectomy and menopause.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

We estimated the incidence and prevalence rate of suspected adenomyosis. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate associations between serum biomarkers and potential adenomyosis. Areas under the receiver-operating characteristic curves (AUC) were used to determine the cut-off point of the cancer antigen 125 (CA125) level for suspected adenomyosis.

Results

A total of 30 629 women had uterus-related imaging examinations; 877 had suspected adenomyosis. The standardised incidence and prevalence of suspected adenomyosis was 1.32% and 2.35%, respectively, for all age groups. The conditional logistic regression analysis results showed that total bilirubin≥18.81 µmol/L (HR: 2.129; 95% CI 1.067 to 4.249; p24 kg/m2 (HR: 1.262; 95% CI 1.055 to 1.511; p

Conclusions

The disease burden of suspected adenomyosis remains huge and can be informed by biomarkers. The disease-specific threshold of CA125 will support further preventive strategy development in population.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100049520, 2021/8/2.

Assessment of antimalarial activity of crude extract of Chan-Ta-Lee-La and Pra-Sa-Chan-Dang formulations and their plant ingredients for new drug candidates of malaria treatment: <i>In vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> experiments

by Prapaporn Chaniad, Arisara Phuwajaroanpong, Walaiporn Plirat, Atthaphon Konyanee, Abdi Wira Septama, Chuchard Punsawad

The emergence and spread of antimalarial drug resistance have become a significant problem worldwide. The search for natural products to develop novel antimalarial drugs is challenging. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the antimalarial and toxicological effects of Chan-Ta-Lee-La (CTLL) and Pra-Sa-Chan-Dang (PSCD) formulations and their plant ingredients. The crude extracts of CTLL and PSCD formulations and their plant ingredients were evaluated for in vitro antimalarial activity using Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase enzyme and toxicity to Vero and HepG2 cells using the tetrazolium salt method. An extract from the CTLL and PSCD formulations exhibiting the highest selectivity index value was selected for further investigation using Peter’s 4-day suppressive test, curative test, prophylactic test, and acute oral toxicity in mice. The phytochemical constituents were characterized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results showed that ethanolic extracts of CTLL and PSCD formulations possessed high antimalarial activity (half maximal inhibitory concentration = 4.88, and 4.19 g/mL, respectively) with low cytotoxicity. Ethanolic extracts of the CTLL and PSCD formulations demonstrated a significant dose-dependent decrease in parasitemia in mice. The ethanolic CTLL extract showed the greatest suppressive effect after 4 days of suppressive (89.80%) and curative (35.94%) testing at a dose of 600 mg/kg. Moreover, ethanolic PSCD extract showed the highest suppressive effect in the prophylactic test (65.82%) at a dose of 600 mg/kg. There was no acute toxicity in mice treated with ethanolic CTLL and PSCD extracts at 2,000 mg/kg bodyweight. GC-MS analysis revealed that the most abundant compounds in the ethanolic CTLL extract were linderol, isoborneol, eudesmol, linoleic acid, and oleic acid, whereas ethyl 4-methoxycinnamate was the most commonly found compound in the ethanolic PSCD extract, followed by 3-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one, flamenol, oleic acid amide, linoleic acid, and oleic acid. In conclusions, ethanolic CTLL and PSCD extracts exhibited high antimalarial efficacy in vitro. The ethanolic CTLL extract at a dose of 600 mg/kg exhibited the highest antimalarial activity in the 4-day suppressive and curative tests, whereas the ethanolic PSCD extract at a dose of 600 mg/kg showed the highest antimalarial activity in the prophylactic test.

Exercise therapy for knee osteoarthritis pain: how does it work? A study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Beckwee · D. · Nijs · J. · Bierma-Zeinstra · S. M. A. · Leemans · L. · Leysen · L. · Puts · S. · Rice · D. · Schiphof · D. · Bautmans · I.
Introduction

Muscle strengthening training (MST) and behavioural graded activity (BGA) show comparable effects on knee osteoarthritic (KOA) pain, but the mechanisms of action remain unclear. Both exercise-induced anti-inflammation and central sensitisation are promising pathways for pain relief in response to exercise therapy in patients with KOA: MST has the potential to decrease inflammation and BGA has the potential to decrease central sensitisation. Hence, this study aims to examine inflammation and central sensitisation as mediators for the effect of MST and/or BGA on pain in patients with KOA.

Methods and analysis

The Knee OsteoArthritis PAIN trial started on 10 January 2020 (anticipated end: April 2024). The three-arm clinical trial aims to recruit 90 KOA patients who will be randomly allocated to 12 weeks of (1) MST, (2) BGA or (3) care as usual. Assessments will be performed at baseline, 13 and 52 weeks after finishing the intervention. Outcomes, including pain (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score), were chosen in line with the OARSI recommendations for clinical trials of rehabilitation interventions for OA and the IMMPACT/OMERACT recommendations for the assessment of physical function in chronic pain clinical trials. Inflammation as well as features of central sensitisation (including conditioned pain modulation, offset analgesia, temporal summation of pain and event-related potentials following electrical stimulation), will be considered as treatment mediators. A multiple mediators model will be estimated with a path-analysis using structural equation models. In July 2023, all 90 KOA patients have been included and 42 participants already finished the study.

Ethics and dissemination

This study obtained ethics approval (B.U.N. 143201941843). Unravelling the mechanisms of action of exercise therapy in KOA will not only be extremely valuable for researchers, but also for exercise immunology and pain scientists and clinicians.

Trial registration number

NCT04362618.

Further psychometric validation and test–retest reproducibility of the WOUND‐Q

Abstract

WOUND-Q is a condition-specific patient-reported outcome measure developed for all types of chronic wounds, located anywhere on the body. To establish reliability and validity of a patient-reported outcome measure, multiple pieces of evidence are required. The purpose of this study was to examine the measurement properties of 9 of the 13 WOUND-Q scales and perform a test–retest reproducibility study in an international sample. In August 2022, we invited members of an international online community (Prolific.com) with any type of chronic wound to complete a survey containing the WOUND-Q scales, the Wound-QoL and EQ-5D. A test–retest survey was performed 7 days after the first survey. It was possible to examine the reliability and validity of eight of the nine WOUND-Q scales by Rasch Measurement Theory (RMT). To examine test–retest reproducibility intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), the standard error of the measurement and the smallest detectable change were calculated. In total, 421 patients from 22 different countries with 11 different types of chronic wounds took part in this study. Our analyses provided further evidence of the reliability and validity of the scales measuring wound characteristics (assessment, drainage, smell), health-related quality of life (life impact, psychological, sleep, social) and wound treatment (dressing).

Optimizing CO<sub>2</sub> field flooding during sternotomy: In vitro confirmation of the Karolinska studies

by Mira Puthettu, Stijn Vandenberghe, Spyros Balafas, Clelia Di Serio, Geni Singjeli, Alberto Pagnamenta, Stefanos Demertzis

Although CO2 field-flooding was first used during cardiac surgery more than 60 years ago, its efficacy is still disputed. The invisible nature of the gas and the difficulty in determining the “safe” quantity to protect the patient are two of the main obstacles to overcome for its validation. Moreover, CO2 concentration in the chest cavity is highly sensitive to procedural aspects, such suction and hand movements. Based on our review of the existing literature, we identified four major factors that influence the intra-cavity CO2 concentration during open-heart surgery: type of delivery device (diffuser), delivery CO2 flow rate, diffuser position around the wound cavity, and its orientation inside the cavity. In this initial study, only steady state conditions were considered to establish a basic understanding on the effect of the four above-mentioned factors. Transient factors, such as suction or hand movements, will be reported separately.

Living in a multicultural context: Health and integration from the perspective of undocumented Mediterranean migrants, residents, and stakeholders in Italy. A qualitative‐multimethod study

Abstract

Aim

To catch a representative view of a multicultural population's needs.

Design

Qualitative study.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted from July 2022 to January 2023 with the project's stakeholders, migrants, and residents. Data analysis was performed using a multimethod textual analysis technique.

Findings

Territorial barriers, lack of social network, and specific professionals' training emerged as healthcare delivery obstacles. For migrants, language improvement emerged as a health priority. A deep relationship with migrants emerged as a deficiency for residents.

Conclusion

A welcoming project equipped with solid leadership and the right resources can be fundamental in mediating health promotion and integration. In this process, the involvement of the resident population is essential.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Analysing the migrants' needs and the strengths and limitations of a reception system could help identify the challenges for professionals in delivering culturally competent care. In this context, the nurse's role becomes relevant, being responsible for taking charge and caring for the population and the link between professionals and the population.

What Problem Did the Study Address?

The study addressed the problem of improving the overall health of migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, mainly focusing on reception and integration into a new society process.

What Were the Main Findings?

Worse health was identified with adaptation, integration, and family problems. Territorial barriers emerged, hindering good health.

Where and on Whom Will the Research Have An Impact?

These research findings can be valuable for health professionals who want to improve the reception process and enhance a care model integrated with residents.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Reporting Method

To describe the research report, we referred to the COREQ checklist (Tong et al., 2007).

Life after paediatric brain tumour; the perspectives of the survivors and their parents

Abstract

Aims

To explore how long-term and late effects of paediatric brain tumours influence the everyday lives of survivors at various ages and their parents.

Design

A qualitative interview study using reflexive thematic analysis.

Methods

We conducted individual interviews and focus groups with 14 paediatric brain tumour survivors aged 9–52 years and 16 parents, which were audiorecorded and transcribed. We inductively analyzed the data using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis. Inductively derived themes were then mapped onto the components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework to examine the survivors' everyday functioning.

Results

All survivors experienced ongoing long-term and late effects but with considerable variations in how these restricted the survivors' functioning and thus their ability to participate in everyday life activities (e.g. social, educational and work activities). All survivors expressed an explicit focus on and use of different strategies to manage their perceived functional limitations and participation restrictions. Many survivors expressed discrepancies between their own goals, expectations and actual abilities post-cancer; making them very aware of their limitations. In addition, many survivors and parents experienced ongoing concerns about the survivors’ future, including the risk of late effects, relapse or other complications.

Conclusion

A wide range of long-term and late effects continue to affect the survivors and their parents' functioning and everyday lives. Their ongoing needs emphasize the importance of comprehensive, life-long follow-up care, as recommended.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The complex challenges across the biopsychosocial realms faced by the survivors supports the call for multidisciplinary survivorship care. Nurses are well positioned to lead such care, as they are trained to provide holistic care and thereby support survivors' functioning and activity participation in everyday life.

Reporting Method

We used the COREQ guidelines when reporting the study.

Patient or Public Contribution

Two user representatives (one young adult PBT survivor and one mother of a PBT survivor) ensured the relevance and quality of the semi-structured interview guides prior to the interviews with the survivors and parents. The guides were sent to the user representatives by mail, and they provided their written feedback by mail to the first author.

Methods and measures to evaluate the impact of participatory model building on public policymakers: a scoping review protocol

Por: Henson · R. M. · Purtle · J. · Headen · I. · Stankov · I. · Langellier · B. A.
Introduction

Public policymakers are increasingly engaged in participatory model building processes, such as group model building. Understanding the impacts of policymaker participation in these processes on policymakers is important given that their decisions often have significant influence on the dynamics of complex systems that affect health. Little is known about the extent to which the impacts of participatory model building on public policymakers have been evaluated or the methods and measures used to evaluate these impacts.

Methods and analysis

A scoping review protocol was developed with the objectives of: (1) scoping studies that have evaluated the impacts of facilitated participatory model building processes on public policymakers who participated in these processes; and (2) describing methods and measures used to evaluate impacts and the main findings of these evaluations. The Joanna Briggs Institute’s Population, Concept, Context framework was used to formulate the article identification process. Seven electronic databases—MEDLINE (Ovid), ProQuest Health and Medical, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase (Ovid), CINAHL Complete and PsycInfo—will be searched. Identified articles will be screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist for scoping reviews will be used and reported. A data extraction tool will collect information across three domains: study characteristics, methods and measures, and findings. The review will be conducted using Covidence, a systematic review data management platform.

Ethics and dissemination

The scoping review produced will generate an overview of how public policymaker engagement in participatory model building processes has been evaluated. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and to communities of practice that convene policymakers in participatory model building processes. This review will not require ethics approval because it is not human subject research.

Anakinra or tocilizumab in patients admitted to hospital with severe covid-19 at high risk of deterioration (IMMCoVA): A randomized, controlled, open-label trial

by Jonas Sundén-Cullberg, Puran Chen, Henrike Häbel, Paul Skorup, Helena Janols, Johan Rasmuson, Katarina Niward, Åse Östholm Balkhed, Katerina Chatzidionysiou, Hilmir Asgeirsson, Ola Blennow, Åsa Parke, Anna-Karin Svensson, Jagadeeswara Rao Muvva, Hans-Gustav Ljunggren, Karolinska KI/K COVID-19 Treatment Working Group , Anna-Carin Horne, Ulrika Ådén, Jan-Inge Henter, Anders Sönnerborg, Jan Vesterbacka, Piotr Nowak, Jon Lampa

Background

Anakinra and tocilizumab are used for severe Covid-19, but only one previous randomized controlled trial (RCT) has studied both. We performed a multi-center RCT comparing anakinra or tocilizumab versus usual care (UC) for adults at high risk of deterioration.

Methods

The study was conducted June 2020 to March 2021. Eligibility required ≥ 5 liters/minute of Oxygen to maintain peripheral oxygen saturation at ≥ 93%, CRP > 70 mg/L, ferritin > 500 μg/L and at least two points where one point was awarded for lymphocytes 9/L; D-dimer ≥ 0.5 mg/L and; lactate dehydrogenase ≥ 8 microkatal/L. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1:1 to receive either a single dose of tocilizumab (8 mg/kg) or anakinra 100 mg IV QID for seven days or UC alone. The primary outcome was time to recovery.

Results

Recruitment was ended prematurely when tocilizumab became part of usual care. Out of a planned 195 patients, 77 had been randomized, 27 to UC, 28 to anakinra and 22 to tocilizumab. Median time to recovery was 15, 15 and 11 days. Rate ratio for recovery for UC vs anakinra was 0.91, 0.47 to 1.78, 95% [CI], p = 0.8 and for UC vs tocilizumab 1.13, 0.55 to 2.30; p = 0.7. There were non-significant trends favoring tocilizumab (and to limited degree anakinra) vs UC for some secondary outcomes. Safety profiles did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

Premature closure of trial precludes firm conclusions. Anakinra or tocilizumab did not significantly shorten time to clinical recovery compared to usual care. (IMMCoVA, NCT04412291, EudraCT: 2020–00174824).

Active close contact investigation of tuberculosis through computer-aided detection and stool Xpert MTB/RIF among people living in Oromia Region, Ethiopia (CADOOL Study): protocol for a prospective, cross-sectional study

Por: Segala · F. V. · Nigussa · W. · Guido · G. · Kenate · B. · Facci · E. · Tsegaye · A. · Gulo · B. · Manenti · F. · Bobosha · K. · Cotugno · S. · Asmare · A. B. · Cavallin · F. · Tilahun · M. · Miccio · M. · Abdissa · A. · Putoto · G. · Saracino · A. · Di Gennaro · F.
Introduction

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease with high incidence in low-income countries (LICs); it remains one of the infectious diseases with the highest mortality in the world, especially in LICs. It is crucial to recognise and diagnose TB as soon as possible, but microbiological tests on sputum are not always sensitive enough. New methods for an early diagnosis of TB are needed. In this study, we will investigate the role of two different tests to detect TB in Ethiopia (where the prevalence of TB is high): molecular search for TB in stool samples with Xpert assay and detection of pulmonary TB signs on chest X-rays with CAD4TB technology.

Methods and analysis

A prospective diagnostic test accuracy study during TB active contact investigation will be conducted. In the referral hospital in Southwest Shoa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, patients with pulmonary TB and a sputum sample positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and household contacts of at least 4 years of age will be enrolled, with a target sample size of 231 patients. Trained staff will label household contacts as ‘possible TB’ cases or not according to their symptoms; when TB is possible, a stool Xpert and computer-aided detection on chest X-ray will be performed, alongside standard diagnostic methods, assessing the diagnostic accuracy of CAD4TB compared with Xpert MTB/RIF during TB contact investigation and the accuracy of stool Xpert compared with sputum Xpert.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Oromia Health Bureau Research Ethics Committee (ref no BFO/MBTFH/1-16/100023). All information obtained will be kept confidential. Selected investigators will have access to data, while international partners will sign a dedicated data protection agreement. Eligible participants will receive brief information about the study before being asked to participate and they will provide written informed consent. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT05818059.

Preventing chronic malnutrition in children under 2 years in rural Angola (MuCCUA trial): protocol for the economic evaluation of a three-arm community cluster randomised controlled trial

Por: Martin-Canavate · R. · Custodio · E. · Trigo · E. · Romay-Barja · M. · Herrador · Z. · Aguado · I. · Ramirez · F. · Faria · L. M. · Silva-Gerardo · A. · Lima · J. C. · Iraizoz · E. · Marques · T. · Vargas · A. · Gomez · A. · Puett · C. · Molina · I.
Introduction

Chronic malnutrition is a serious problem in southern Angola with a prevalence of 49.9% and 37.2% in the provinces of Huila and Cunene, respectively. The MuCCUA (Mother and Child Chronic Undernutrition in Angola) trial is a community-based randomised controlled trial (c-RCT) which aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a nutrition supplementation plus standard of care intervention and a cash transfer plus standard of care intervention in preventing stunting, and to compare them with a standard of care alone intervention in southern Angola. This protocol describes the planned economic evaluation associated with the c-RCT.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a cost-efficiency and cost-effectiveness analysis nested within the MuCCUA trial with a societal perspective, measuring programme, provider, participant and household costs. We will collect programme costs prospectively using a combined calculation method including quantitative and qualitative data. Financial costs will be estimated by applying activity-based costing methods to accounting records using time allocation sheets. We will estimate costs not included in accounting records by the ingredients approach, and indirect costs incurred by beneficiaries through interviews, household surveys and focus group discussions. Cost-efficiency will be estimated as cost per output achieved by combining activity-specific cost data with routine data on programme outputs. Cost-effectiveness will be assessed as cost per stunting case prevented. We will calculate incremental cost-effectiveness ratios comparing the additional cost per improved outcome of the different intervention arms and the standard of care. We will perform sensitivity analyses to assess robustness of results.

Ethics and dissemination

This economic evaluation will provide useful information to the Angolan Government and other policymakers on the most cost-effective intervention to prevent stunting in this and other comparable contexts. The protocol was approved by the República de Angola Ministério da Saúde Comité de Ética (27C.E/MINSA.INIS/2022). The findings of this study will be disseminated within academia and the wider policy sphere.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT05571280).

Genomics-informed nursing strategies and health equity: A scoping review protocol

by Dzifa Dordunoo, Jacqueline Limoges, Patrick Chiu, Rebecca Puddester, Lindsay Carlsson, April Pike

Objective

The objective of this scoping review is to map the available evidence on strategies that nurses can use to facilitate genomics-informed healthcare to address health disparities.

Introduction

Advancements in genomics over the last two decades have led to an increase in the delivery of genomics-informed health care. Although the integration of genomics into health care services continues to enhance patient outcomes, access to genomic technologies is not equitable, exacerbating existing health disparities amongst certain populations. As the largest portion of the health workforce, nurses play a critical role in the delivery of equitable genomics-informed care. However, little is known about how nurses can help address health disparities within the context of genomics-informed health care. A review of the literature will provide the necessary foundation to identify promising practices, policy, and knowledge gaps for further areas of inquiry.

Inclusion criteria

We will include papers that explore strategies that nurses can undertake to facilitate genomics-informed care to address health disparities.

Methods

This review will be conducted using JBI methodology for scoping reviews. We will search electronic databases including MEDLINE (OVID), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PsychInfo, and CINAHL for quantitative and qualitative studies, systematic reviews and grey literature. Theses, books, and unavailable full-text papers will be excluded. The search will be limited to papers from 2013 and beyond. Two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts followed by full-text and disagreements will be resolved by a third reviewer. We will use a data extraction tool using Microsoft Excel and analyse data using descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis. Findings will be presented in the form of evidence tables and a narrative summary. We will report findings using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).

Discussion

Genomics will continue to transform all aspects of health care across the wellness continuum from prevention, assessment, diagnosis, management, treatment, and palliative care. The identification of nursing strategies to address health disparities will build the foundation for policy and practice to ensure that the integration of genomic technologies benefits everyone.

Perceptions of academic staff and students of senior high school in implementing game-based exercises in physical education classes--a research protocol for a qualitative descriptive study

Por: Manlapaz · D. · Vergara · J. A. · Alpuerto · K. M. B. · De Los Santos · I. K. S. · Enriquez · M. U. · Manicio · Z. Z. · Mendres · J. E. F. · Tolosa · C. G. S. · Vilela · Z. G. D. · Zabat · Z. E. G. A.
Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on both physical activity and fitness as several pursuits and activities have been restricted. Coupled with this, increased food intake and sedentary lifestyles have produced poor physical health outcomes. Online physical education classes have been more difficult to conduct given the limitations of the setup. As such, exergaming has been identified as a possible educational tool that could improve students’ motivation, participation and fitness levels and reduce negative behaviours in class while contributing to the current curriculum.

Objectives

The study explores the perspectives of both the physical education academic staff and senior high school students from the University of Santo Tomas on the implementation of exergaming to determine the feasibility of exergaming as an educational tool in the Philippines’ physical education curriculum.

Methodology

A descriptive qualitative design will be used and participants will be selected through criterion sampling. The authors will conduct a process of question development and pilot FGDs beforehand to ensure smooth proceedings. Once done, they will undergo FGDs conducted through Google Meet. Data will be coded and analysed via thematic analysis using manual coding and NVivo V.12 software to summarise central themes and perceptions.

Ethics and dissemination

This study will abide by the Nuremberg Code, Declaration of Helsinki, Belmont Report, Data Privacy Act of 2012 and National Ethical Guidelines (for health-related research) of 2017. The study has received approval from the University of Santo Tomas (UST)-College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS) Ethics Review Committee. All participant data will be labelled according to random two-digit computer generated codes to preserve anonymity and stored in password-protected laptops and Google Drive folders to preserve confidentiality. Results will be made available to individual UST physical education academic staff and senior high school students prior to publication in peer-reviewed journal.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis of primary small cell carcinoma of the breast: a propensity score-matched, population-based study

Por: Yin · L. · Yin · A.-H. · Pu · C.-C.
Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of primary small cell carcinoma of the breast (PSCCB) and compare PSCCB with breast invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Data of patients with PSCCB and breast IDC were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2016.

Participants

Eighty-three patients with PSCCB and 410 699 patients with breast IDC were enrolled in the present cohort study.

Materials and methods

Patients with PSCCB and breast IDC were identified from the SEER database between 2004 and 2016. The clinicopathological characteristics and survival of patients with PSCCB and IDC were compared. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed to adjust for differences in baseline characteristics when comparing overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Moreover, OS-/CSS-specific nomograms were established to predict the prognosis of PSCCB.

Results

Compared with IDC, PSCCB was significantly correlated with older age, male, higher pathological grade, higher TNM (tumour, node, metastases) stage, a higher proportion of triple-negative breast cancer, a lower proportion of ER/PR positivity and significantly worse clinical outcome. The median OS and CSS of patients with PSCCB were 23.0 m (95%CI 13.0 to 56.0) and 28.0 m (95%CI 18.0 to 66.0), respectively. The 5-year OS and CSS rates in the PSCCB group were 36.1% and 42.4%, respectively. In the matched cohort after PSM analysis, patients with PSCCB had significantly worse OS and CSS than IDC patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that T stage and administration of chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors for both OS and CSS in patients with PSCCB. The C-index for OS-/CSS-specific nomogram was 0.75 (95%CI 0.66 to 0.85)/0.79 (95%CI 0.69 to 0.89), respectively. The calibration curve in the ROC analysis indicated that the predicted value was consistent with the actual observation value. Decision curve analysis suggested that the nomogram model has a significant positive net benefit from the risk of death and are better than the traditional TNM staging system.

Conclusion

PSCCB has distinct clinicopathological characteristics, and patients with PSCCB have significantly worse clinical outcomes than those with IDC.

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