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☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Contribution of contrast-enhanced ultrasound for diagnosis of adnexal torsion (COVARIAN): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Por: Fijean · A.-L. · Manhertz · D. · Massicot · L. · Lecointre · L. · Mottet · N. · Raimond · E. · Simon · E. · Gabriele · V. · Morel · O. · Beaumont · M. · Hossu · G. · Bertholdt · C. — Febrero 26th 2026 at 04:41
Introduction

Adnexal torsion is a gynaecological emergency in which prompt diagnosis and management are critical to preserving ovarian function. However, the clinical presentation is often non-specific, and diagnosis primarily relies on pelvic ultrasound, a modality with limited sensitivity that can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary surgery. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has emerged as a promising imaging technique that may enhance diagnostic accuracy by better characterising adnexal vascularisation.

The aim of this study is to assess whether the addition of CEUS to standard diagnostic procedures can reduce the rate of unnecessary emergency surgeries. Specifically, we compare two diagnostic strategies in cases of high clinical suspicion of adnexal torsion: the current standard approach versus an experimental strategy incorporating CEUS. The primary outcome is the rate of inappropriate surgical interventions, defined as emergency surgery performed within 6 hours without intraoperative confirmation of torsion.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, open-label, multicentre, randomised (1:1), controlled, superiority trial. A total of 256 women presenting with a high clinical suspicion of adnexal torsion will be enrolled over a period of 36 months. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the standard diagnostic strategy or an experimental strategy that includes CEUS. The primary endpoint is the proportion of emergency surgical procedures (performed within 6 hours of hospital admission) in which adnexal torsion is not confirmed.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the French Ethics Committee, the CPP (Comité de Protection des Personnes) on 28 October 2024. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant national and international conferences. The ethical approval number from the CPP is 6115.

Registration number

NCT06677554; 2024-511720-13-00.

☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Mental Health First Aid training for Chile and Argentina: protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

Por: Agrest · M. · Encina-Zuniga · E. · Ardila-Gomez · S. · Fernandez · M. A. · Gabriel · R. · Bargamian · J. · Alvarado · R. · Morgan · A. J. · Kelly · C. M. · Reavley · N. — Febrero 12th 2026 at 14:16
Introduction

Community support for individuals with mental health problems is a global public health issue. Poor mental health literacy and high levels of stigmatising attitudes among the general population can hinder both help-seeking behaviours and limit the capacity of community members to provide support to people experiencing mental health challenges. The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training course was created to educate community members to provide initial help towards a person developing a mental health problem. MHFA training has spread to high-income countries, but there is relatively little research on cultural adaptation to lower-resource settings. This study aims to fill that gap and is the first cluster randomised controlled trial (cRCT) assessing the effectiveness of MHFA training in Chile and Argentina.

Methods and analysis

The study involves a two-arm wait-list cRCT with 240 participants (120 in each country). The study will be conducted in three settings in each of Chile and Argentina (eg, universities, health services and workplaces). Two clusters per setting in each country will be paired and randomly allocated to the intervention (the MHFA training for Chile and Argentina) or the wait-list control group. Participants in the intervention arm will be asked to complete questionnaires at baseline (T1), after training completion (T2) and 6 months after completion (T3), with control arm participants completing data collection at corresponding time points. The primary outcome will be intended support towards someone experiencing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. Secondary outcome measures will include the ability to recognise depression and psychosis in vignettes; beliefs about the helpfulness of different types of interventions and helping actions, confidence in providing MHFA and stigmatising attitudes towards a person with depression or psychosis. Findings will demonstrate whether the culturally adapted MHFA training for Chile and Argentina can effectively enhance intended support, knowledge, attitudes and supportive actions towards other individuals within the community.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been granted by the Human Research Ethics Committee at the University of Melbourne (Australia), Proyecto Suma (Argentina) and the University of Chile (Chile). Dissemination will be via academic publications and conference presentations. These will also be made available to participants and other interested parties on request.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN63724445.

☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Characterising cystic fibrosis in African populations: a scoping review protocol on phenotype, diagnosis, genetics and barriers to care

Por: Ratner · L. · Marangu-Boore · D. · Hamouda · S. · Kwarteng Owusu · S. · Eze · J. · Dakshi · A. · Wordui · S. · Hamdy · A. · Owusu · S. A. · Weldetsadik · Y. · Uluer · A. · Daimi · H. · El Makhzen · N. · Abriel · H. · Nasr · S. · Moosa · S. · Swanson · C. · Cronin · A. E. · Zampoli · M. — Febrero 10th 2026 at 14:17
Introduction

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-shortening genetic disorder traditionally mischaracterised as affecting only populations of European descent. This framing has contributed to under-recognition of CF in African populations, despite emerging evidence of both common and region-specific cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator mutations across the continent. Diagnostic barriers, structural inequities and lack of surveillance further exacerbate disparities in care and visibility.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review aims to characterise CF in African populations by synthesising evidence on clinical presentation, diagnostic practices, genotypic diversity, prevalence and structural barriers to care. We will include case reports, cohort studies, registry analyses and other primary data sources involving individuals of African descent with suspected or confirmed CF. Key outcomes include clinical phenotype, age at diagnosis, mutation profile, diagnostic testing access and mortality. Data sources include Ovid Medline, Embase, Ebsco Global Health, CAB Abstracts and Web of Science Core Collection. Multiple-reviewer screening and extraction will be conducted. We will use narrative synthesis, thematic analysis and meta-analysis for prevalence where feasible.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required as the review uses published data. Results will be shared with clinicians, researchers and CF networks in Africa and globally to inform diagnostic strategies and policy.

☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Advanced Nursing

Emerging Workforce Nurse Resilience‐Enhancement Program: A Qualitative Descriptive Phenomenological Study

Por: Hiromi Tobe · Adrianna L. Watson · Gabriela Marquez · Rachel Detrick — Febrero 2nd 2026 at 12:20

ABSTRACT

Background

Nursing students experience heightened stress and emotional burden during clinical training, but opportunities for structured resilience skill development remain limited.

Aim

To explore undergraduate nursing students' lived experiences of participation in a resilience-enhancement program.

Design

Qualitative descriptive phenomenology.

Methods

Undergraduate students participated in a resilience-enhancement pilot program adapted from Japan for American nursing students. Upon program completion, four semi-structured focus groups were conducted. Sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed inductively.

Findings

Three themes were identified: (1) Intrapersonal Resilience Strategies; (2) Interpersonal & Accountability Supports; and (3) Intervention Design & Delivery Factors. Students described increased emotional insight, stronger coping tools and the value of social accountability.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that an undergraduate resilience-enhancement program grounded in mindfulness, journaling and peer support is both feasible and meaningful for nursing students. Integrating brief, scalable resilience interventions into nursing curricula may help prepare the next generation of nurses to care effectively for patients and navigate the emotional, ethical and interpersonal demands of a rapidly evolving global healthcare landscape.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

This study addresses the global challenge of preparing nursing students for the emotional and relational demands of contemporary healthcare. The program's scalability and alignment with global workforce priorities highlight its potential relevance for nursing education internationally.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the SRQR guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

None.

☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Clinical Nursing

Development and Psychometric Testing of a Comprehensive Cancer Nurse Self‐Assessment Tool (CaN‐SAT) for Identifying Cancer Nursing Skills

ABSTRACT

Aim

To develop and psychometrically test a comprehensive Cancer Nurse Self-Assessment Tool (CaN-SAT).

Design

Modified Delphi to assess content validity and cross-sectional survey to assess reliability and validity.

Methods

Phase 1: An expert group developed the tool structure and item content. Phase 2: Through a modified Delphi, cancer nursing experts rated the importance of each element of practice and assessed the relevance and clarity of each item. Content Validation Indexes (CVI) were calculated, and a CVI of ≥ 0.78 was required for items to be included. Phase 3: Cancer nurses participated in a survey to test internal consistency (using Cronbach's alpha coefficients) and known-group validity (through Mann–Whitney U tests). This study was reported using the Guidelines for Reporting Reliability and Agreement Studies (GRRAS) checklist.

Results

The CaN-SAT underwent two rounds of Delphi with 24 then 15 cancer nursing experts. All elements of practice were rated as important. Only three items achieved a CVI < 0.78 after round one; however, based on open-ended comments, 26 items were revised and one new item added. After round two, all items received a CVI above 0.78. The final tool consisted of 93 items across 15 elements of practice. Cronbach's alpha coefficients were between 0.92 and 0.98 indicating good reliability. Mann–Whitney U tests demonstrated significant differences between clinical nurses and advanced practice nurses across 13 out of 15 elements of practice.

Conclusion

The CaN-SAT is a comprehensive, valid and reliable tool that can be used for cancer nurses to self-assess current skill levels, identify their learning needs and inform decisions about educational opportunities to optimise cancer care provision.

Patient or Public Contribution

The research team included three patient advocates from Cancer Voices NSW, who were actively involved in all aspects of the study and are listed as authors.

☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Clinical Nursing

Burnout Syndrome Predictors in Nursing Professionals During and After the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Prospective Cohort

ABSTRACT

Aim

To analyse predictors of burnout in nursing professionals during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

Cohort study.

Method

A two-phase study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic's peak (2020) and post-vaccination period (2022). Data from nursing professionals of four hospitals in southern Brazil included sociodemographic, occupational, lifestyle, and health variables, and Maslach Burnout Inventory responses. Multivariate logistic and linear regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of burnout syndrome. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (approval no. 4.152.027).

Results

A sample of 163 participants were assessed at two distinct time points. In 2020, 9.2% of nursing professionals experienced burnout syndrome, decreasing slightly to 7.4% in 2022. As for the burnout dimensions, emotional exhaustion was reported by 27% of professionals in 2020 and 26.4% in 2022. Depersonalisation affected 28.2% during the pandemic and 25.2% afterward. Low professional accomplishment was identified in 29.4% of professionals in 2020, increasing to 30.1% in 2022. Distinct predictors were identified for overall burnout and its specific dimensions. The main predictors included: perceiving a mental health impact from the pandemic, previous mental health issues, recent medical leave, and working directly with COVID-19 patients.

Conclusions

Burnout syndrome remained stable post-pandemic. Key predictors were identified, highlighting the need for preventive mental health interventions.

Relevance for Clinical Practice

Identifying predictors of burnout in nursing professionals supports the development of targeted interventions to protect mental health, improve job satisfaction, and enhance the quality of patient care during and after health crises.

Impacts

This study fills a gap in post-pandemic research by identifying predictors of burnout in nursing professionals. It supports the development of policies and interventions to protect mental health and improve working conditions in Brazilian hospitals.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines for cohort studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participants contributed only through data collection.

☐ ☆ ✇ PLOS ONE Medicine&Health

Custom foot orthoses for chronic metatarsalgia: Study protocol for a participant- and assessor-blinded superiority randomized controlled trial

by Eléna Payen Schalkens, Maxime Acien, Andrée-Anne Marchand, Pier-Luc Isabelle, Jacques Abboud, Gabriel Moisan

Background

Chronic metatarsalgia (CM) causes significant pain and disability, affecting quality of life. Foot orthoses (FOs) including medially wedged designs with a metatarsal pad decrease excessive plantar pressure under the metatarsal heads, which is a suggested risk factor for developing CM. This FOs model may be effective in diminishing pain and improving function in these individuals. Thus, the objective of this trial will be to compare the effects of medially wedged FOs with a metatarsal pad and sham FOs on pain and foot function in individuals with CM.

Methods/design

This participant- and assessor-blinded superiority randomized controlled trial (RCT) with two parallel groups will be conducted in Trois-Rivières, Canada. Sixty-four participants with CM will be recruited from the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières outpatient podiatry clinic and via social media invitations. They will be randomized into intervention (customized FOs) or control (sham FOs) groups and will be evaluated at baseline and after 6 and 12 weeks. The primary outcome will be: (1) mean pain during walking for the most painful foot during the past week. The secondary outcomes will be: (1) Foot Function Index, (2) Global rating of change and (3) the 5-level EQ-5D.

Discussion

Medially wedged FOs with a metatarsal pad are expected to provide a greater reduction in pain and improvement in foot function compared to sham FOs. This trial will help guide FOs prescription recommendations for managing foot pain in individuals with CM in the future.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06962475

☐ ☆ ✇ PLOS ONE Medicine&Health

The power of concentration: Antipredator responses to diluted frozen crayfish alarm cues provide insights on ecologically relevant concentrations and updates to methodology

Por: Gabrielle H. Achtymichuk · Kaitlyn M. Fish · Maud C. O. Ferrari — Diciembre 31st 2025 at 15:00

by Gabrielle H. Achtymichuk, Kaitlyn M. Fish, Maud C. O. Ferrari

To optimize fitness when facing predation, animals perform threat-sensitive predator avoidance whereby they match the magnitude of the antipredator response to the severity of the perceived threat. Injury-released chemical alarm cues are a reliable indicator of predation risk in aquatic organisms, triggering overt antipredator responses upon detection by conspecifics. Animals with threat sensitivity typically have graded responses to increasing concentrations of these cues which plateau when a maximal response is reached, however, this is undocumented in crayfish. Furthermore, most research currently uses alarm cue exposures consisting of one crushed crayfish diluted in 100–400 mL of water, while it could be ecologically relevant for them to respond to lower concentrations, especially given that predation events can consist of bites or lacerations which would release less alarm cues. The quantity of cue administered into the tank (exposure concentration) is also highly variable, making experimental comparisons difficult. In our study, we collected crayfish alarm cues by rinsing five cut sites (to mimic laceration wounds) and diluting the cues in 100 mL to 100 L of water. Over two experiments, we determined the antipredator response of crayfish exposed to one of five alarm cue concentrations or a water control. During these trials, 20 mL of the cues were administered into 10 L of water, thereby standardizing the test subject’s exposure to the cues. While we failed to find evidence of graded responses, we discovered that alarm cues elicited overt antipredator behaviour when diluted in up to 10 L of water, but this response was lost when cues were diluted in 100 L. Furthermore, this study is the first to successfully use frozen-thawed alarm cues in crayfish. These findings can help direct future research, providing information on the ecologically relevant range of chemical cues and improving welfare by reducing lab-animal sacrifice.
☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Assessing the clinical utility of composite outcomes in studies examining outcomes of implantable neuromodulation therapies for pain: a systematic review

Por: Chung · O. S. · Gabriel · G. M. · Alomari · A. · Bhatia · A. — Diciembre 18th 2025 at 10:31
Background

Implantable neuromodulation therapies are offered to patients with certain refractory pain syndromes. These therapies are resource-intensive and effort-intensive and may be associated with significant adverse effects. Change in pain intensity score, an unidimensional measurement tool, is currently the most used eligibility criteria for patients to receive implanted neuromodulation devices. However, pain is a biopsychosocial phenomenon, and assessment of effectiveness of neuromodulation therapies using tools that incorporate multiple pain-related domains may be more relevant and accurate. Composite measures integrate multiple domains of patient well-being, enabling a clinically relevant assessment of treatment effects. This systematic review aims to evaluate the literature on the clinical utility and reliability of composite outcomes as a means to assess efficacy of implantable neuromodulation therapies for refractory pain.

Methods and analysis

We will search Embase, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and the WHO’s International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. Searches will be limited to from inception of each database to 31 December 2025. Studies published in English will be considered eligible if they used composite outcomes to evaluate the efficacy and/or effectiveness of implantable neuromodulation therapies for treating refractory pain. The studies should investigate adult populations (aged ≥18 years) undergoing implantation for chronic refractory pain of moderate-to-severe intensity. Two reviewers will independently screen articles, extract data and review the risk of bias and the grade of evidence provided in the studies. Extracted data will include study details (author, year, country of origin), participant demographics (age, sex), sample sizes and intervention details. Outcome measures include pain intensity, physical health, mental health, quality of life, medication use and neuromodulation device explantation rates. Data will be collected at baseline, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months post-implantation where available. A meta-analysis will be formed if there is sufficient homogeneity in the studies and their data.

Ethics and dissemination

As this study is a systematic review using data that has already been published in scientific literature or is publicly available, ethics approval is not required. For dissemination, we plan to share the findings of our review through multiple academic and clinical channels. The completed review will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal relevant to pain medicine or neuromodulation.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42025631488.

☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Clinical Nursing

Carrying the Unspoken: A Phenomenological Study of the Existential Experiences of Siblings of Children With Complex Care Needs

Por: Carina Nygård · Anne Clancy · Gabriele Kitzmüller — Diciembre 2nd 2025 at 11:00

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the existential lived experiences of emerging adult siblings of children with complex care needs.

Design

A qualitative phenomenological design.

Methods

In-depth conversational interviews were conducted between February and June 2022 with nine emerging adult siblings (aged 16–27), who grew up with a brother or sister with complex care needs. Data were analysed using van Manen's phenomenology of practice approach.

Results

Five core themes were identified: Loss of a familiar world: the profound changes and disruptions in siblings' lives. The sibling bond: endured and enduring love. Embracing the load: balancing responsibilities. Being behind the scenes: a lonely childhood. Jigsaw falling into place: siblings finding clarity and forging their own paths.

Conclusion

Early experiences of growing up with a sibling who has complex care needs, may resurface or shift in meaning, impacting long-term existential well-being, particularly when siblings feel overlooked by families, educators, and healthcare professionals. These silenced experiences often persist into emerging adulthood, shaping emotional health, relationships, and life choices.

Impact

The underrecognized existential needs of these siblings call for intentional, person-centred care. Our research advocates early, targeted interventions, emphasizing the pivotal role of nurses. A lifeworld-led phenomenological approach equips nurses to more effectively attend to the unmet needs of siblings within family care settings.

Reporting Method

The research followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist.

Patient and Public Contribution

Emerging adult siblings with lived experience of growing up alongside a brother or sister with complex care needs contributed important insights into the interpretation of findings, ensuring relevance to clinical nursing.

☐ ☆ ✇ PLOS ONE Medicine&Health

Socio-ecological factors influencing dietary behaviours among adolescents and young adults in rural Eastern Uganda: A qualitative study

by Thomas Buyinza, Edward Buzigi, Joshua Kitimbo, Gabriel Ssabika, Mary Mbuliro, Julius Kiwanuka, Justine Bukenya, David Guwatudde, Rawlance Ndejjo

Introduction

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) worldwide display poor dietary behaviors, including high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables. These issues are more pronounced in Sub-Saharan Africa, such as rural Eastern Uganda, where 45.3% of adolescents eat low-diversity diets high in refined grains and fats. Such diets raise the risk of malnutrition and diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). However, there is limited contextual evidence on the multi-level factors influencing AYAs’ dietary behaviors in rural Uganda. This study examined socio-ecological factors shaping dietary behaviors among AYAs in this setting.

Methods

A qualitative study guided by the socio-ecological model (SEM) was conducted in Mayuge District, Eastern Uganda. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were held with AYAs, including male and female, aged 10–14, 15–19, and 20–24 years. To have a nuanced understanding of how AYAs’ dietary behaviours are shaped, additional FGDs were conducted with parents or guardians and teachers, and key informant interviews with the district education officer, nutrition focal person, civil society staff, and food vendors. Data were analyzed in ATLAS.ti using both inductive and deductive thematic approaches: data-driven sub-themes were first identified inductively, then deductively mapped onto pre-determined themes of the SEM.

Results

Dietary behaviors were shaped by satiety, energy needs, sensory appeal, and nutrition knowledge at the individual level. Peer influence, parental control, and food’s perceived link to attractiveness acted interpersonally, while community factors included gendered cultural taboos, norms, and health worker advice. At the societal level, cultural identity, ancestral restrictions, and media exposure strongly influenced choices.

Conclusions

This study contributes novel rural-specific evidence from rural Uganda, where AYAs’ diets are uniquely constrained by satiety demands, parental dominance, cultural taboos, and seasonal scarcity; contrasting with urban contexts where convenience, autonomy, and wider food environments prevail. Multi-level interventions integrating nutrition education, family and peer engagement, cultural dialogue, and household food security support are essential for promoting healthier diets in resource-limited rural settings.

☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Prevalence of depression or depressive symptoms among engineering students: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Por: Gabriel · F. C. · Humes · E. d. C. · Wagner · M. B. · Fraguas · R. — Noviembre 28th 2025 at 18:14
Objectives

To assess the prevalence of depression or depressive symptoms among engineering students.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence surveys using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Data sources

PubMed, Index Medicus Global, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus and PsycINFO were searched from 1 January 2003 to 28 June 2024.

Eligibility criteria

Studies were included if they: (1) reported the prevalence of depression or depressive symptoms among engineering students, (2) used a validated instrument with defined cut-off points to assess depression or depressive symptoms and (3) were published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two researchers independently extracted data using a standardised spreadsheet, collecting information on country of data collection, survey years, year of training, sample size, mean age of participants, number and percentage of male participants, assessment instrument, cut-off points and prevalence estimates. Discrepancies were resolved by a third researcher. Risk of bias was assessed with the Risk of Bias for Studies of the Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders tool. Prevalence estimates were synthesised using random-effects meta-analysis. Between-study heterogeneity was assessed with ² tests and the I² statistic. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to severity cut-off points, and meta-regression was used to explore the influence of study-level characteristics on prevalence estimates.

Results

23 studies involving 12 758 students across 11 countries were analysed. All studies used validated scales with cut-off points to assess depression or depressive symptoms. The overall pooled prevalence was 42.6% (95% CI 32.7 to 53.1) for studies using symptom severity cut-off points at mild or above, and 33.1% (95% CI 25.2 to 42.0) for studies using symptom severity cut-off points at moderate or above. Meta-regression indicated a progressive annual increase in prevalence (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.28, p=0.034) across studies conducted from 2014 to 2024.

Conclusions

Prevalence of depression and depressive symptoms is high among engineering students, at levels comparable to medical students. Given the substantial impact, further research should investigate risk factors and evaluate preventive, early detection and treatment strategies tailored to engineering students.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024571131.

☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Leadership in the health professions in the Philippines: a scoping review protocol

Por: Gabrieles · M. · Lipana · A. G. R. · Dicolen · E. — Noviembre 27th 2025 at 03:23
Introduction

Research indicates that leadership in the health professions can facilitate improvement of quality and efficiency of healthcare services. In the Philippines, leadership in the health professions plays a critical role in driving improvements in healthcare delivery and health professions education. Thus, the landscape of leadership in the health professions merits continuous exploration and deeper understanding. This scoping review aims to explore the landscape of leadership in the health professions in the Philippines. The scoping review will include published and unpublished research papers of any kind, such as primary research studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, letters, guidelines, websites, blogs and grey literature that report about leadership in the health professions in the Philippines. Exclusions are leadership studies on the health professions that discuss the professions outside the scope and context of the practice.

Methods and analysis

The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodological framework for scoping review will be used in this review. A three-step search strategy will be used consisting of an initial search, full search and screening of reference lists. The databases that will be included are Cinahl Ultimate, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Embase, Emcare, Web of Science, JBI Evidence-based Practice Database, PubMed/Medline, ERIC, local journals and grey literature to determine pertinent sources about the topic. Sources searched will be screened by two independent reviewers and data will be extracted using a data extraction table. Disagreements will be resolved by a discussion through a third reviewer. The results of the search and the study inclusion process will be reported in full in the final scoping review and presented in a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for scoping review flow diagram. Search strategy using the included databases started in August to September 2025, data extraction will start by October 2025, data analysis will start by November 2025 and the review is expected to be completed by December 2025.

Ethics and dissemination

This study does not involve human participants and has been reviewed and classified for exempted review by the University of the Philippines Manila Research Ethics Board, which is a committee whose task is to make sure that research participants are protected from harm. The findings of the scoping review will be disseminated through conference presentations and publication in a scientific journal.

☐ ☆ ✇ PLOS ONE Medicine&Health

A cost-effective mesocosm framework for reptile research: Design, validation, and practical insights

by Giulia Simbula, Frederico M. Barroso, Enerit Saçdanaku, Gabriel Ene, Geanina Fănaru, Lekshmi B. Sreelatha, Miruna-Gabriela Vizireanu, Myrto Roumelioti, Nikoletta-Maria Boskovits, Sabina E. Vlad, Prem Aguilar, Miguel A. Carretero

Mesocosms, outdoor replicated ecological experiments within a controlled environment, have become a valuable tool for investigating a broad range of ecological questions across various sub-disciplines. This study presents a medium-sized mesocosm system (MS) designed for individual-level responses to abiotic factors and basic intraspecific interactions in small ground-dwelling reptiles, offering a practical alternative to large-scale facilities for resource-limited settings. Unlike large-scale facilities that are ideal for meta-community dynamics but impractical due to high costs and complexity, this system targets research contexts with limited resources requiring replicated experimental units. To validate the MS design, 16 units were constructed using cost-effective, widely available materials and equipped with a programmable irrigation system. A pilot test using Podarcis bocagei lizards provided a preliminary biological evaluation of the design and its suitability in housing wild-caught medium-small reptiles under semi-natural conditions over 7 months. Despite minor maintenance, the MS was resilient to environmental conditions, warranting an expansion to 32 units in subsequent years. Most individuals maintained or recovered body mass during the activity season, and displayed natural behaviours such as basking and foraging. The system’s modularity and adaptability offer a practical reference for ecological studies with similar constraints.
☐ ☆ ✇ PLOS ONE Medicine&Health

Optimized protocol for culturing and extracting DNA from fungal isolates associated with brown spot needle blight in pine trees

by Temitope Ruth Folorunso, Gabriel Silva, Marilis E. Girón, Tess Lindow, Micah Persyn, Lori Eckhardt, Janna R. Willoughby

Effective culturing and DNA extraction protocols are essential for advancing research on fungal pathogens of brown spot needle blight (BSNB) that infect loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) and other Pinus species. We evaluated the performance of four widely used fungal media, including Sabouraud dextrose, malt extract, potato dextrose, and yeast extract peptone dextrose, in both solid (agar) and liquid (broth) formats, quantifying fungal growth through colony diameter and biomass accumulation over a three-week period. Sabouraud dextrose agar and broth consistently supported the most rapid and extensive growth in both formats, while potato dextrose underperformed across these metrics. To identify an optimal protocol for downstream molecular applications, we also compared four DNA extraction methods, three of which were modified variants of the CTAB (cetyl-trimethyl-ammonium bromide) chemistry as well as the Qiagen DNeasy kit following the yeast DNA extraction protocol. DNA yield, quantified by fluorometry, was highest for the high-salt CTAB polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) protocol and DNA purity (assessed by 260/280 absorbance ratio) was optimal for both PVP and Qiagen extractions. From these comparisons, we suggest that Sabouraud dextrose culturing combined with CTAB PVP extraction for use as a robust and accessible pipeline for generating high-quality fungal DNA.
☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Advanced Nursing

Australian and New Zealand nursing and midwifery educators' planetary health knowledge, views, confidence and teaching practices: A descriptive survey study

Abstract

Aim

To explore Australian and New Zealand nursing and midwifery educators' planetary health knowledge, views, confidence and teaching practices.

Design

A cross-sectional survey design.

Methods

An online survey was sent to Australian and New Zealand nursing and midwifery educators across the 45 Schools of Nursing and Midwifery between July and September 2023. The online survey consisted of 29 open- and closed-ended questions about nursing and midwifery educators' planetary health knowledge, views, confidence and teaching practices.

Results

There was a total of 127 responses to the first open-ended question. A total of 97 nursing and midwifery educators then completed the remaining questions. While educators had mostly positive views about integrating planetary health into their teaching, they lacked the knowledge and/or confidence to do so effectively.

Conclusion

Australian and New Zealand nursing and midwifery educators acknowledge that planetary health should be included in nursing and midwifery curricula, but most reported a deficit in knowledge and/or confidence to integrate these complex concepts into their teaching. When considering planetary health, most educators focussed on climate change, which demonstrates their limited understanding of the concept of planetary health.

Implications for the Profession

All nurses and midwives need to understand how the health of the planet and human civilization are interconnected and be prepared to address complex global health challenges now and in the future. Across the world, key healthcare organizations have called upon nursing and midwifery educators to prepare the healthcare workforce to practice in a more sustainable way, including supporting decarbonization of healthcare. However, our study has demonstrated that nursing and midwifery educators do not feel ready to respond due to a lack of required knowledge and/or confidence.

Reporting Method

We used the Consensus-Based Checklist for Reporting of Survey Studies (CROSS).

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Advanced Nursing

Co‐Designing Storyboards for Multimedia Resources With Informal Carers to Support Hospital‐to‐Home Transitions for Older Adults From Culturally Diverse Backgrounds

ABSTRACT

Aim

To co-develop storyboards and scripts for multimedia resources to support the information needs of informal carers (carers) of older adults from Greek, Italian and Chinese (Cantonese- and Mandarin-speaking) Australian backgrounds during hospital-to-home transitions.

Methodology

A modified experience-based co-design methodology was used to co-develop four storyboards and scripts with Greek, Italian and Chinese Australian carers and advocates from multicultural community-aged care organisations. To promote relevance, a Carer Advisory Group guided the research. The Carer Advisory Group, comprising 10 people, included carers and advocates from participating multicultural community-aged care organisations, a social worker from a large public health service, and policy representatives. Twenty-nine participants took part from June 2023 to April 2024. Data collection involved two rounds of co-development including 2 workshops, 9 small group interviews and 11 individual interviews. Round 1 focused on understanding participants' experiences of older adult care transitions, information needs and advice for other carers. This information was used to develop categories and example quotes to draft four storyboards reflecting participants' descriptions of the carer and patient journey during care transitions. Round 2 involved draft storyboards being presented to the same participants who advised on their acceptability. Certified interpreters and translators were used throughout data collection.

Findings

The co-developed categories, four storyboards and scripts are presented. Participants and the Carer Advisory Group agreed that the findings would be used to develop multimedia resources to support the information needs of carers and older adults from Greek, Italian and Chinese Australian backgrounds in care transitions.

Conclusions and Implications

The storyboards and scripts for multimedia resources are expected to improve access to information and services for carers and older adults from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The storyboards and scripts are examples to guide policymakers and leaders in improving transitional care in Australia and internationally.

Reporting Method

The reporting of the study has adhered to the COREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

Informal carers were involved in the Carer Advisory Group which provided guidance and consultation to each phase of the project. Their contributions included reviewing the ethics application prior to submission for ethical review, and reviewing storyboards and scripts to optimise the relevance for informal carers and older adults.

☐ ☆ ✇ Journal of Advanced Nursing

Authentic Nursing Leadership and Safety Climate Across Hospital Settings During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To analyse the relationship between authentic nursing leadership and safety climates across hospital settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background

Authentic nursing leadership shapes the safety climate by fostering positive perceptions of workplace policies, processes, procedures and practices that influence how safety is prioritised and addressed within an organisation.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

Our study was conducted from December 2021 to December 2022 in six Brazilian hospitals. Participants were nursing staff working in General Medicine Units, Intensive Care Units (ICU) and Emergency Departments (ED) who provided care to patients with COVID-19. The Authentic Leadership Questionnaire and the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire were used to measure nursing staff perceptions of authentic leadership and safety climates. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results

391 nursing staff across six hospitals participated. Self-awareness significantly enhanced perceptions of the safety climates. Additionally, being a Registered Nurse and working in the ICU were positively associated with achieving safe climates in the working environment. In contrast, working in EDs was significantly negatively related to safety climates.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored a lack of authentic nursing leadership and unsafe climates. Therefore, it is critical to implement educational strategies that foster authentic leadership, particularly focusing on self-awareness, to promote more positive safety climates. Ensuring that leadership and safety climates are relationship-focused is critical to enhancing patient outcomes.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Nursing staff's perceptions of authentic leadership and safety climates are important in making more informed decisions about patient management.

Impact

Since self-awareness increases positive perceptions of safety climates, nursing staff should exercise it to guide their actions in facing future health crises.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

Higher self-awareness in relationships with others is a predictor of safety climates and can lead to enhanced patient outcomes.

☐ ☆ ✇ BMJ Open

Interventions delivered in healthcare settings to promote vaping cessation in children and young people (under the age of 18 years): a scoping review protocol

Por: Hoo Chuin Shen · M. · Gabriel · M. M. · Brennan · L. · Isba · R. — Septiembre 8th 2025 at 18:11
Introduction

Vaping among children and young people (CYP) has increased globally over the past decade, with rates stabilising in the UK in recent years. Factors such as curiosity, social influence, stress management and attractive flavours contribute to its popularity. Although the long-term health impacts are uncertain, vaping poses risks including nicotine dependence, cardiovascular and respiratory issues, and cognitive impairment, though evidence on long-term effects is still emerging. Despite established smoking cessation programmes for adults, tailored resources for vaping cessation among CYP remain scarce, particularly within healthcare settings, which offer unique opportunities for professional intervention and ongoing support. The objective of this review is to assess the extent and nature of available literature on interventions delivered in healthcare settings to support vaping cessation among CYP under the age of 18 years.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review will include studies targeting CYP under the age of 18 years, specifically focusing on interventions delivered within healthcare settings. Studies outside healthcare contexts or those without healthcare provider involvement will be excluded. Additionally, interventions delivered solely to parents or carers will not be considered.

A comprehensive search will be conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and CINAHL from January 2004 to present, with additional grey literature from sources including grey literature repositories and Google Scholar. Results will be imported into Rayyan for screening, with two independent reviewers assessing studies for inclusion. Data extraction will include study design, population characteristics (including explicit age ranges, specifically CYP under 18 years), intervention details and outcomes. A descriptive synthesis will map study characteristics, while thematic analysis will identify intervention themes and healthcare contexts.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required for this secondary analysis. Findings will be disseminated through publication, conference presentations and shared with public health stakeholders.

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