Conectar
by Kindu Alem, Mucheye Gizachew, Mulat Dagnew, Worku Ferede, Solomon Belay, Baye Gelaw, Feleke Moges
BackgroundKlebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter species, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are priority pathogens identified by the World Health Organization that have emerged as major causes of healthcare-associated infections. Their increasing resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents poses significant challenges to clinical management and infection control efforts.
ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the prevalence, associated risk factors, antimicrobial resistance patterns, and carbapenemase production of K. pneumoniae, Acinetobacter spp., and P. aeruginosa among hospitalized patients with suspected bloodstream, urinary tract, and surgical site healthcare-associated infections at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.
MethodsA hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2024 to June 2025 among 477 patients suspected of bloodstream, urinary tract, or surgical site healthcare-associated infections. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Blood, urine, and wound/pus specimens were aseptically collected and inoculated on MacConkey, blood, and cysteine lactose electrolyte-deficient agar following standard microbiological techniques. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyzes were used to identify factors associated with healthcare-associated infections. P value Results
Among the 477 patients, 118 (24.7%) developed healthcare-associated infections caused by K. pneumoniae, Acinetobacter spp., and P. aeruginosa, with culture positivity rates of 14.9%, 4.8%, and 5%, respectively. Significant associated factors included age under five (AOR = 13.260, p K. pneumoniae, 69.6% of Acinetobacter spp., and 58.3% of P. aeruginosa isolates. Carbapenemase production occurred in 92%, 77.8%, and 57.1% of these carbapenem-resistant isolates, respectively. Amikacin, meropenem, and ciprofloxacin were the most effective antimicrobials, whereas chloramphenicol was effective only against K. pneumoniae.
ConclusionThis study showed high prevalence of multidrug resistance and carbapenemase production among K. pneumoniae, Acinetobacter spp., and P. aeruginosa in the study area, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen infection prevention and control measures and to promote antimicrobial stewardship programs.
by Malik Hamrouni, Ayushman Gupta, Sophie Middleton, Sabrina Prosper, Theresa Harvey-Dunstan, Joanne Porte, Tricia M. McKeever, Ian P. Hall, Charlotte E. Bolton
AimsTo characterise symptoms, function and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and identify associated factors in adults with persisting respiratory symptoms post-COVID.
MethodsCross-sectional analysis of 210 non-hospitalised adults referred to a post-COVID respiratory clinic (December 2020-July 2024) who consented to research. Assessments included demographics, symptoms, lung function, chest CT, and several PROMs: MRC dyspnoea score, Nijmegen Questionnaire score (NQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Chalder Fatigue Scale, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Fried Frailty Index. Multivariate logistic regression examined key exposure-outcome associations.
ResultsAmong participants (mean age 49.4 years; 68% female; median 13.3 months since COVID-19 diagnosis), 95% reported shortness of breath, 54% had clinically significant breathlessness (MRC ≥ 3), 68% had an NQ score (>23) consistent with dysregulated breathing, 32% had a low SPPB score ( Conclusion
In non-hospitalised patients with persistent respiratory symptoms post-COVID, dysregulated breathing, deconditioning and psychological distress were key factors linked with symptom burden. These findings suggest a multidisciplinary approach should be considered to optimise recovery.
by Mohammad Z. Darabseh, Aseel Aburub, Ragad Alkaraki, Abdullah Saber Alshammari, Yazan Almansi, Ghaith Dalalah, Csaba Melczer, Pongrác Ács
To evaluate pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength in Mejwez players compared to predicted norms, and to assess the influence of smoking behaviours on these outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving adult Mejwez players. Spirometric parameters (forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV₁/FVC) and respiratory pressures (maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP)) were measured and compared to predicted values. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the impact of smoking behaviours on respiratory outcomes. Mejwez players demonstrated significantly higher FEV₁ (+0.38 L, pby Seid Mohammed Abdu, Hussen Abdu, Endris Seid Muhaba, Ebrahim Msaye Assefa, Gosa Mankelkl
BackgroundThe sciatic nerve (SN), the longest and largest nerve in the body, arises from the L4-S3 nerve roots and exits as a single trunk below the piriformis muscle through the greater sciatic foramen. However, variations in its anatomy are common, believed to originate from embryological development. These variations show significant racial and geographical differences, which have often been overlooked in previous review studies. Therefore, this meta-analysis aims to address this gap by systematically reviewing global data to evaluate the impact of race on sciatic nerve variations.
MethodsA systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the pooled prevalence of SN variations among racial subgroups. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari, and additional sources, including major anatomical journals and cross-referenced articles. Subgroup analyses by region and country were also conducted using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed with the Cochrane Q test and the I² statistic.
ResultsType A, considered the normal pattern, had the highest pooled prevalence at 86%. The remaining 14% represented variations of the sciatic nerve (SN). Among these, Type B was the most common at 7%, followed by Type C and G each observed in 2% of limbs, while less frequent variations included Type Type D (1%), Type E (0%), and Type F (0% (0–1)). Racial analysis showed that SN variations occurred in 15% of Asians, 12% of Whites, and 13% of Blacks. Regarding continents, the highest prevalence was in Asia with 15%, the second highest prevalence was observed in Europe with 14%, followed by Africa with 13%, and the lowest in America with 11%. No significant differences were found among the races and continents. However, East Asia showed the highest significant prevalence, with China at 35% and Japan at 32%.
ConclusionThis review revealed only modest and statistically non-significant differences in the prevalence of sciatic nerve variations across broad racial and continental groups. In contrast, substantial variation was observed at the regional level, with particularly high prevalence rates in East Asian countries, specifically China and Japan. These findings suggest that regional factors contribute more to the observed variations than racial factors.
by Hala M. AlOmari, Hanady Bani Hani, Telda Alkhateeb, Dua’ Qutaishat
Background and objectivesTelehealth is the provision of healthcare services remotely via telecommunications technology. The implementation, clinical applications, and perceived effectiveness of telehealth among audiologists across the Arab region, particularly following its accelerated adoption due to the COVID-19 pandemic was investigated.
Materials and methodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted between April and June 2024 among 194 audiologists from multiple countries. A non-probability purposive sampling approach was implemented. The respondents were grouped into providers and non-providers of telehealth services. The questionnaire collected data on demographics, service delivery models, telehealth applications, training background, and perceived challenges. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed to identify predictors of teleaudiology adoption.
Results46.9% of the sample reported providing telehealth services. Many of them (69.2%) indicated that they began offering telehealth services following the COVID-19 pandemic. Synchronous delivery was commonly utilised. Younger professionals and those employed in public institutions were more likely to engage in remote service delivery (p Conclusions
The audiologists’ reported perceptions and experiences indicate that teleaudiology remains limited in clinical diagnostic service delivery. Broader integration of teleaudiology practices may benefit from enhanced professional training, the development of standardised guidelines, and investment in technological infrastructure to support access to remote hearing healthcare.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionised cancer treatment through targeted disruption of the physiological pathways that maintain tissue tolerance, but which are co-opted by cancers to evade immunosurveillance. Thus, the resultant T-cell activity often causes immune-related adverse events including immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced inflammatory arthritis (ICI-IA). ICI-IA results in functional impairment that frequently persists, even after ICI discontinuation, with substantial quality-of-life impacts for cancer survivors.
A high-quality body of evidence to guide ICI-IA management remains an unmet need. Pharmacological treatment may be prolonged, typically begins with non-specific immunosuppression, including systemic steroids, and is usually only rationalised to more targeted therapy in resistant cases. Moreover, retrospective data suggest the high dose glucocorticoids sometimes used in new-onset ICI-IA may be associated with worse cancer outcomes.
Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibition strategies are well established with excellent efficacy and safety profiles in ‘spontaneous’ inflammatory arthritides including rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis. Mechanistic evidence from ex vivo and murine studies also supports the utility of anti-TNF therapy for steroid-refractory cases of ICI-IA. Although good clinical responses have been reported in this setting, the REACT trial (REmission induction of Arthritis caused by Cancer ImmunoTherapy) aims to provide randomised and robust clinical evidence for deploying targeted therapy earlier in ICI-IA management. It will test whether up-front anti-TNF therapy can more effectively and quickly control symptoms, reduce glucocorticoid exposure, prevent early ICI discontinuation and increase the frequency of drug-free ICI-IA remission.
REACT is a prospective, multicentre, open-label, superiority, two-arm, randomised controlled clinical trial to guide initial therapy for patients with ICI-IA. The trial will compare the current standard of care (initial prednisolone; Arm A) with the anti-TNF drug, adalimumab without glucocorticoids (Arm B).
The primary outcome is glucocorticoid-free arthritis remission rate at 24 weeks where remission is defined as: (i) No use of systemic or intra-articular glucocorticoids (except when used for adrenal insufficiency) within 4 weeks prior to assessment at 24 weeks; and (ii) absence of synovitis on clinical examination.
The protocol was approved by East Midlands—Leicester South Research Ethics Committee on 31-Oct-2024 (Ref: 24/EM/0202). Participants are required to provide written informed consent. The results of this trial will be disseminated through national and international presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
To determine the prevalence of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP), potentially inappropriate medication (PIM), potential prescription omission (PPO), potentially harmful drug–drug interactions (PDDI) and identify associated factors among older Ethiopians.
Systematic review and meta-analysis
We searched PubMed, HINARI, Scopus and Web of Science databases to identify eligible studies published up to 31 October 2025.
Observational studies reported the prevalence of PIP, PIM, PPO and PDDI among older adults from any healthcare settings were screened.
Two independent reviewers selected studies, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. The quality and risk of bias of the studies were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and Hoy risk of bias tool, respectively, while the certainty of evidence of outcomes was assessed using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation based on Cochrane recommendations. We used a random-effects model for analyses to estimate the pooled prevalence and associated factors. All data analyses were done using Stata V.17 software.
The national prevalence of PIP, PIM, PPO and PDDI was estimated as main outcomes. Variations were estimated based on regions, age groups, outcome evaluation tool, disease type and healthcare setting.
The review included 25 studies (n=5662 participants) for PIP or PIM, 14 studies (n=2706 participants) for PDDI and 6 studies (n=1342 participants) for PPO. The pooled prevalence estimate was 41% (95% CI 33% to 48%), I2=96.87% for PIP, 37% (95% CI 31% to 44%), I2=96.33% for PIM, 55% (95% CI 36% to 73%), I2=99.00% for PDDI and 14% (95% CI 6% to 24%), I2=95.07% for PPO. The majority of the studies have very good quality (very good=13, good=1, satisfactory=11 for PIP and PIM; very good=11, satisfactory=3 for PDDI; very good=6 for PPO) and low risk of bias (low risk=18, moderate risk=7 for PIP and PIM; low risk=12, moderate risk=2 for PDDI and low risk=6 for PPO), while all studies for each outcome have low certainty of evidence. Subgroup analyses revealed significant regional and contextual variations. Polypharmacy was significantly associated with PIP (OR=3.72, 95% CI 2.53 to 5.46, p2=69.56%), PIM (OR=4.20, 95% CI 2.91 to 6.06, p2=57.83%) and PDDI (OR=4.51, 95% CI 3.05 to 6.69, p2=0.00%), while hypertension (OR=2.46, 95% CI 1.38 to 4.36, p2=0.00%) was associated with PIP.
This review found a high prevalence of PIP, PIM, PDDI and PPO among older adults in Ethiopia, with notable heterogeneity across regions. Polypharmacy was associated with PIP, PIM and PDDI, while hypertension showed association with PIP. Despite generally good study quality, the certainty of evidence was low for the included studies due to the cross-sectional design nature, with high heterogeneity. Therefore, these findings should be interpreted cautiously. This study indicates a high burden of inappropriate medication prescribing and its associated factors, underscoring the importance of further robust studies to clarify prescribing practices and associated factors.
CRD42024556744.
Incidental pulmonary nodules (IPNs) are commonly encountered on chest radiographs (CXRs) performed for routine clinical indications and may represent early manifestations of significant pulmonary pathology, including lung cancer. While low-dose CT screening has mortality benefits in selected high-risk populations, its implementation remains limited in many healthcare settings. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted CXR interpretation has the potential to enhance pulmonary nodule detection. However, evidence from Malaysian clinical practice is scarce. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance of AI-assisted CXR interpretation for detecting IPNs across healthcare facilities in the Klang Valley, Malaysia.
This prospective, multicentre study will include 2452 CXRs from patients aged ≥35 years over a 6-month period across four Klang Valley healthcare facilities. Each CXR will be independently interpreted by an experienced radiologist (>5 years of experience) and analysed separately using an AI system (qXR-LNMS). An independent thoracic radiologist will determine the final classification for analysis if there is IPN detection discordance. Diagnostic performance metrics (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and overall accuracy) will be calculated using a 2x2 classification matrix. Agreement between AI-assisted interpretation and radiologist reports will be assessed using Cohen’s kappa statistic. The prevalence of IPNs detected by AI-assisted interpretation and radiologist reporting will be compared using a two-proportion z-test. AI discriminative performance will be evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and area under the curve estimation. Statistical analyses will be conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences V.29, with p
Ethical approval has been obtained from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Research Ethics Committee and the Ministry of Health Malaysia Medical Research and Ethics Committee. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, scientific conferences and engagement with relevant stakeholders.
Healthcare utilisation (HU) is key to improving the health of residents in urban informal settlements. This study aimed to explore household-level factors influencing HU among informal settlement households in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Cross-sectional survey.
Three informal settlements (Cockle Bay, Dwarzark and Moyiba) in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Primary data from 4871 households were collected during the Health and Wellbeing survey conducted between April and May 2023, targeting households with adults aged 18 years and older.
The primary outcomes were households HU both within and outside informal settlements. Household-level predisposing and enabling explanatory variables were derived from Andersen’s Behavioural Model of HU.
Disability in households increases HU within settlements (especially in Dwarzark, 13% and Moyiba, 10%) but is less likely outside. Households engaged in income-generating activities are more likely to seek healthcare within settlements, but 12% less likely outside in Cockle Bay and Dwarzark. Food insecurity decreases HU within Dwarzark (9%) and increases HU outside by 174% in Moyiba. Longer water fetching times and water shortages were associated with higher HU (between 6% and 16%) within settlements, especially in Cockle Bay and Dwarzark. Clean water sources (eg, piped dwelling, bowser, surface, bottled) were consistently associated with higher HU both within and outside settlements. Shared sanitation facilities (such as shared toilets) were positively associated with HU both within and outside settlements, particularly in Dwarzark and Moyiba. Households with income from fishing, informal salaried work and bike riding showed higher HU both within and outside settlements, especially in Dwarzark and Moyiba.
We identified strong settlement-specific patterns of household-level factors that influence HU both within and outside Freetown’s informal settlements. These findings provide a foundation for developing targeted policies such as strengthening local services, addressing affordability and accessibility barriers and supporting vulnerable occupation groups.
There is a significant need for trials that evaluate the treatment of University of Texas (UT) grade 2 and 3 diabetic foot ulcers (bone, joint, or tendon exposed wounds). We undertook a trial looking at the effect of intact fish skin graft (IFSG) on these deep and difficult-to-heal ulcers. 262 patients Intent to Treat (ITT) patients with UT grade 2 and 3 DFUs were randomised to receive intact fish skin graft (IFSG) or a standardised treatment (SOC) that adhered to the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) guidelines. The secondary endpoints that were measured included wound area reduction (WAR), healing rates at 20 and 24 weeks; closure rates by UT grade, perfusion, quality of life, pain reduction and IFSG safety. We report ITT (all randomised) (mITT previosly reported) The (WAR) at 12 weeks was 65.53% for IFSG versus 30.82% for SOC (p = 0.007). UT 2 wounds (60% of total) exhibited a closure rate of 47% versus 23% at 16 weeks for IFSG versus SOC (p = 0.0033). Target wound infections were comparable (39 vs. 37) and major outcomes were comparable during the 24 week period (target-limb amputations 8% vs. 7%). Time-to-heal favoured IFSG (restricted mean to 24 weeks 17.31 vs. 19.37 weeks; KM/log-rank significant; Cox HR 1.59). The in the treatment of deep complex diabetic foot wounds the addition of IFSG significantly improved the number of patients with total wound closure as well as the time to wound closure without increased risk of complications. This improvement in total wound closure and time to wound closure was noted across prior amputation status, quality of perfusion, and UT grade.
To classify Italian home care models based on structural characteristics, process factors and stakeholder perceptions.
This is a secondary analysis of the AIDOMUS-IT multicentre cross-sectional study, conducted in Italy between July 2022 and December 2023.
Data were collected via online surveys completed by 33 Local Health Authority Nursing Directors, home care nurses and patients. Hierarchical cluster analysis was used to classify different organisational models based on structural and process-related factors. Nurses' and patients' perceptions of care were described for each identified cluster.
The analysis identified three distinct organisational home care models: The ‘multidisciplinary model’, in which nurses reported high dissatisfaction due to organisational complexity and excessive workloads. In the ‘nurse-centred model’, characterised by publicly employed nurses, strong leadership, and a supportive work environment, patients reported high levels of satisfaction. The ‘performance-based model’, which operated with a lower nurse-to-patient ratio, reduced service hours, and greater reliance on external professionals. Nurses in this model reported high job satisfaction but also a greater intention to leave, while patient satisfaction was lower.
This study underscores the importance of leadership, resource management, and a supportive work environment in influencing both job satisfaction and patient outcomes in home care settings.
Policymakers could use these findings to refine care models and improve service delivery.
Limited research has examined the organisational structures of home care services, which are important for professionals' organisational well-being, patient safety, and quality of care. This study identified three distinct organisational home care models that could be used to refine care approaches and improve service delivery.
This study respects the EQUATOR guideline for observational studies (STROBE).
This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.
Chronic wounds present a significant challenge to society and have a negative impact on the quality of life and daily activities of patients. This review aimed to identify the cost-effectiveness of the currently used care alternatives for the treatment of chronic wounds. This study serves to identify cost-effectiveness boundaries and provide a basis for determining the cost-effectiveness of the proposed care alternatives. A systematic literature search was conducted in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Articles published on Web of Science and PubMed from June 2013 to June 2023 were included. A comparative analysis was performed using the data adjusted for inflation and transformed for the same time horizon. The median time to heal was approximately 2.5 months in the first quartile of studies ending at 1.3 months and the third quartile ending at 3.7 months. The average cost of complete chronic wound healing for all care alternatives in the study sample was $6435, with a median cost of $5814. This systematic review covers a diverse range of treatment alternatives, their health effects and costs and highlights the complex landscape of cost-effectiveness in the treatment of chronic wounds.
Trial Registration: PROSPERO database under registration number: CRD42023434074
The production of science is characterized by socio-political and technological forces that influence what knowledge is produced. In this context, empty reviews have received little attention, with debate ranging over the pros and cons of their publication. However, their dissemination may improve the ability to recognize and prioritize research gaps. The main aim of the study was to map empty reviews published in nursing science.
A scoping review in accordance with Arksey and O'Malley, Joanna Briggs Institute and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews. The review protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework database in April 2025. Four databases and grey literature were searched; there were eligible scoping or systematic reviews defined as “empty” in the field of nursing. A modified framework of Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for practice, and Research recommendations was used to summarize the extracted data.
Fifteen empty reviews were identified. In terms of Patterns, the empty reviews were mainly published in high-income countries over the last 10 years and related to clinical practise and outcomes, education and training, organizational and human resources, and approaches to maternity care, mental health, and nursing education. In general, reporting guidelines were used, while funding was not documented. In terms of Recommendations, more primary studies, the development of tools and the strategic use of empty reviews to inform the funding and research agenda were suggested.
Empty reviews in nursing may indicate neglected or emerging areas that can help orient research agendas to ensure equity-oriented priorities and reduce the marginalization of under-investigated topics. Recognizing empty reviews as legitimate scholarly outputs supports transparent mapping of knowledge gaps, helping funders, institutions, and research programs direct resources to under-investigated areas. Dedicated registries that publicly report empty reviews, establish minimum reporting standards, and require explicit keywords in titles and abstracts would improve transparency and accessibility, and stimulate targeted primary research that can turn “empty” areas into active inquiry. From this perspective, empty reviews may attract research investment rather than be seen as methodological failures.
Examine the relationships between workplace trust, interpersonal trust, and nurses' physical and mental health, and specifically investigate the mediating role of resilience.
Nurses are central to healthcare delivery but frequently experience workplace violence, adversely affecting their well-being. Trust represents a higher-order mechanism that fosters positive attitudes and professional growth, potentially safeguarding nurses' resilience in coping with adversity. However, research elucidating how trust influences nurses' health via resilience remains limited.
A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling. A total of 2855 clinical nurses from general hospitals in Fujian Province, China, were surveyed between August and October 2022. Workplace trust and interpersonal trust were served as independent variables, Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary scores as dependent variables, and resilience as a mediator. Mediation analysis was performed using Mplus 8.3. The study was prepared and reported according to the STROBE checklist.
Mean scores were Physical Component Summary: 51.12 ± 8.90, and Mental Component Summary: 48.20 ± 10.18. Workplace trust had significant direct effects on both Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary. Interpersonal trust had no significant direct effects on Physical Component Summary or Mental Component Summary. Resilience demonstrated significant mediating effects: for workplace trust on Physical Component Summary and on Mental Component Summary; and for interpersonal trust on Physical Component Summary and on Mental Component Summary.
Workplace trust directly enhances nurses' physical and mental health. While interpersonal trust lacks a direct link to health outcomes, both workplace and interpersonal trust significantly improve nurses' health indirectly by bolstering resilience. Resilience serves as a critical pathway through which trust fosters well-being.
No patient or public contribution.
Nurse managers and healthcare administrators should prioritise interventions to cultivate workplace trust (e.g., fostering trust among colleagues, and between nurses and the organisation/management) and strengthen interpersonal trust and psychological resilience. Enhancing these protective factors will better equip nurses to manage occupational and personal stressors, ultimately safeguarding and improving their physical and mental health.
by Clarisse Kagoyire, Albert Ndagijimana, Gilbert Nduwayezu, Jean Nepo Utumatwishima, Jean Pierre Mpatswenumugabo, Marie Anne Mukasafari, Diane Rinda, Vedaste Ndahindwa, Kristina Elfving, Gunilla Krantz, Torbjörn Lind, Ali Mansourian, Renée Båge, Ewa Wredle, Elias Nyandwi, Aline Umubyeyi, Jean Baptiste Ndahetuye, Petter Pilesjö
Despite national progress, stunting remains prevalent in specific regions of Rwanda, highlighting the limitations of coarse-resolution data for effective mapping and intervention planning. This study explored optimal spatial resolution and analytical approach to capture localised dynamics and the multifactorial nature of stunting. A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted in the Northern Province of Rwanda, focusing on children aged 1–36 months. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering socio-demographic, economic, health, childcare, livestock factors and anthropometric measurements. Environmental characteristics were obtained from national datasets, while household geographic coordinates were captured using a customized mobile geodata platform (emGeo). After data cleaning, predictors were analysed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression as well as geographically weighted logistic regression (GWLR) to account for spatial heterogeneity. Among 601 children, stunting prevalence was 27% (boys 33.8%; girls 20.9%). GWLR improved model fit, increasing adjusted deviance explained from 34% to 39%. Significant predictors included child age (adjusted OR = 2.46; 95% CI: 1.78–3.39), male sex (OR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.65–4.86), birthweight (OR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.54–0.94), maternal autonomy (ability to refuse sexual intercourse; OR = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.27–0.86), inconsistent maternal social support (OR = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.20–4.42), household electricity access (OR = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.27–0.84) and handwashing facilities (OR = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.07–0.67). GWLR revealed substantial spatial heterogeneity in these factors, delineating areas where each factor matters most. This household-level, spatially explicit analysis reveals localised risk patterns often masked by aggregated national data. Prioritising context-specific interventions (such as electrification, hygiene promotion, and enhanced maternal social support), can enhance effectiveness. The proposed analytical workflow provides a model for addressing persistent stunting in other resource-limited settings.by Yaosen Du, Yiyong Yang, Xiaolong Wu, Pengju Gao, Hanchen Ma
To enhance the efficiency, safety, and data accuracy of drilling engineering, this study developed an integrated business management platform for drilling engineering grassroots units based on the Business Model Driven (BMD) approach. The platform is built on a “five horizontal, three vertical” cloud computing architecture, establishing a five-layer system from the infrastructure layer to the user layer horizontally, and supported by standard specifications, safety, and maintenance systems vertically, enabling collaboration across multiple business scenarios and data integration. Currently, four major modules with over 20 functionalities have been developed, supporting applications such as task coordination, engineering supervision, data analysis, and accident handling. Operational results demonstrate that the platform effectively promotes integrated management of drilling engineering through real-time data sharing, full-process quality control, and intelligent decision-making, thereby enhancing operational quality and safety, reducing accident risks, and providing critical technological support for the digital transformation and upgrading of the drilling industry.by Oksana Kovtun, Olga Cheshun, Oksana Pashchuk, Kostyantyn Dumchev
BackgroundUkraine’s HIV epidemic remains concentrated among key populations, with sex workers (SWs) facing overlapping vulnerabilities, including a history of injection drug use. Although overall HIV prevalence has declined, prevention coverage remains below national and global targets. Accurate mapping of sex work hotspots is essential for effective outreach, yet existing data are fragmented and incomplete, especially in privatized and digitally mediated environments. This study aimed to systematically identify and characterize sex work venues across eight Ukrainian cities and assess their coverage by HIV prevention services.
MethodsIn 2021, we conducted a two-stage, multi-informant mapping study across eight Ukrainian cities, interviewing 1,212 secondary and 2,277 primary key informants, including SWs. Hotspots were characterized by type, perceived safety, access modality, operating schedule, and presence of SW subgroups. We used descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and multivariable mixed-effects regression to identify factors associated with HIV prevention service coverage.
ResultsOf 2,581 identified hotspots, 2,118 (82.1%) were validated as active. Apartments (43.2%), virtual platforms (11.7%), and street-based sites (11.1%) were the most common. Only 13.7% of hotspots were registered in the national HIV service registry, while 34.1% received prevention service delivery and 18.9% were reached by mobile vans. Coverage was highest at street-based and office-type venues and consistently lowest in private, virtual, and pimp-mediated settings. Service coverage was positively associated with 24/7 or daytime operation, higher perceived safety, open access, and the presence of SWs who inject drugs.
ConclusionsThis study provides comprehensive mapping of sex work hotspots in Ukraine, revealing persistent gaps in HIV prevention for less visible and harder-to-reach SWs. Community-led mapping achieved high validation rates (86.8%) and identified substantial unmet needs in digital and concealed hotspots. Routine hotspot mapping, combined with engagement with SW communities, is essential for data-driven, equitable, and adaptive HIV responses in rapidly changing contexts.
Stroke is one of the top causes of disability in Malaysia, yet caregivers have limited access to structured, culturally tailored education to support poststroke care.
To develop and validate the CaknaStrok Education Package (CEP), a blended learning intervention comprising a printed guidebook and a trilingual mobile health application for informal stroke caregivers in Malaysia.
Methodological study involving the development and validation of a caregiver education programme guided by the Analyse, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate (ADDIE) instructional design framework.
Development and validation were conducted in Malaysia between January 2022 and December 2023. Both experts and caregivers were recruited from two tertiary hospitals on the East Coast of Malaysia, with caregivers identified from inpatient wards and outpatient clinics at these hospitals.
Content validation involved 10 multidisciplinary experts. Face validation involved 14 informal stroke caregivers who met eligibility criteria, and all completed the study.
CEP was developed based on prior needs assessment and expert input. Content validation was undertaken using the Content Validity Index (CVI) and face validation using the Face Validity Index (FVI), both assessed on a four-point Likert scale. Qualitative feedback was also obtained from the participants.
CEP consists of six modules delivered via a printed guidebook and a trilingual app with videos, assessment tools and local resources. Experts rated the content highly valid (Scale-level (S)-CVI/the average method (Ave): 0.97–0.99 across domains). Caregivers reported strong acceptability (S-FVI/Ave: 0.95–0.99). Qualitative feedback from experts and caregivers informed refinements to content clarity, usability and presentation, including improved navigation, consistent language use and enhanced visual design. Suggestions requiring substantial structural changes were documented for future iterations.
The CEP shows strong content and face validity as a blended caregiver education tool. By combining printed and digital formats, CEP addresses cultural and access challenges and provides a scalable model for stroke caregiver education in Malaysia. Further pilot or feasibility studies are warranted to evaluate usability, engagement and implementation in real-world settings prior to effectiveness evaluation.
Endometriosis is a chronic, oestrogen-dependent condition with a wide range of symptoms and comorbidities that significantly affect physical, emotional and psychological well-being, as well as quality of life. Women with endometriosis often face complex treatment decisions with no universally accepted gold-standard therapy. Shared decision-making, supported by patient decision aids (PtDAs), can enhance patient knowledge and promote informed preferences and decisions. Digital PtDAs, in particular, offer potential for personalised, interactive and accessible decision support. Their characteristics, development process and evaluation in endometriosis care remain underexplored. The objective of this scoping review is to map the existing literature on digital PtDAs developed for women of reproductive age (18–49) with endometriosis, across a range of healthcare and digital health contexts.
This scoping review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. A comprehensive three-step search, developed with an information specialist, will be conducted across MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane databases and grey literature sources. Citations will be imported into Rayyan for screening. Two independent reviewers will conduct study selection, data extraction and analysis. Data will be summarised using tables and descriptive content analysis to identify key features, development processes and evaluation methods of digital PtDAs. The review will be reported in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines.
This review started off in July 2025, and the anticipated end date is November 2025. We plan to disseminate this research through publications, presentations at relevant national and international conferences and meetings with relevant stakeholders. This scoping review protocol has been registered at Open Science Framework (osf.io/fp86m). As this scoping review will use data from published and publicly available sources, research ethics approval is not required.
Hyperkalaemia (HK) is common in the emergency department (ED) and can cause life-threatening arrhythmias. Patiromer is a potassium binder whose role in acute HK management is uncertain; therefore, we investigated the efficacy and safety of patiromer as an adjunct to the standard of care treatment of HK in the ED.
A prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
16 ED sites across the USA.
Patients aged ≥18 years treated at a participating ED who were found to have serum potassium ≥5.8 mEq/L.
Participants were randomised 1:1 to standard combination therapy (25 g intravenous dextrose, 5 units intravenous insulin and 10 mg albuterol) with either patiromer or placebo. The initial dose was given within 1 hour of the potassium result, and the second dose 24 hours later.
The primary endpoint was net clinical benefit (NCB) at 6 hours, defined as the change in number of potassium-lowering interventions minus change in serum potassium. Adverse events (AEs) were also recorded.
The study was terminated early and did not reach the prespecified sample size. Overall, 111 patients (53 patiromer and 58 placebo) were analysed. Mean (SD) age was 61.34 (15.21) years, 34% were female, 48% white and 22.5% received chronic haemodialysis. Mean baseline potassium was 6.5 mmol/L. NCB at 6 hours was similar between patiromer and placebo (–0.6 vs –0.4; p=0.44). Potassium levels at 2, 4 and 6 hours were similar between the groups (5.50 vs 5.70, 5.45 vs 5.65, 5.50 vs 5.60; patiromer and placebo (all p>0.05)). The number of interventions per patient was similar (p>0.05) between groups at each time point. The proportion of patients experiencing AEs was not significant between the patiromer and placebo groups (16.98% vs 32.76%; p=0.08).
No differences in efficacy were reported in this study, which was underpowered to detect statistical efficacy of patiromer over placebo.
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