37 results on '"United Kingdom"'
Search Results
2. Enhancing Parental Understanding of Emotions in Children with Developmental Language Disorder: An Online Parent-Led Intervention Program.
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Durgungoz, Fatma Canan and St Clair, Michelle C.
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TREATMENT of language disorders ,FEAR ,SCALE analysis (Psychology) ,HEALTH attitudes ,SADNESS ,AUTONOMY (Psychology) ,RESEARCH funding ,T-test (Statistics) ,MEDICAL care ,INTERVIEWING ,PARENT-child relationships ,ANGER ,QUESTIONNAIRES ,PARENT attitudes ,INTERNET ,TREATMENT effectiveness ,PARENTING ,DESCRIPTIVE statistics ,DEVELOPMENTAL disabilities ,THEMATIC analysis ,RESEARCH methodology ,COMMUNICATION ,SOCIAL skills ,ABILITY ,SOCIAL support ,EMOTIONS in children ,TRAINING ,EDUCATIONAL attainment ,EMPLOYMENT - Abstract
Many children with developmental language disorder (DLD) have emotion recognition and regulation difficulties, but there are currently no known interventions enhancing emotional awareness in this population. This study explores the impact of parents' perspectives regarding children with DLD emotional understanding through a parent-led online emotion recognition (ER) intervention. Ten parents of children with DLD aged 6–11 participated in the study. A nonconcurrent multiple baseline design was employed, allowing for a rigorous analysis of changes in parental beliefs over time. Weekly data were collected through the Parents' Beliefs About Children's Emotions Questionnaire. Interviews were also conducted to gain deeper insights into parents' perceptions regarding the ER skills of their children. Results indicated that parents' beliefs about the need for guiding and supporting their child's ER skills increased over the intervention. Interviews also supported this, and three main themes were generated. The intervention program increased parents' awareness of (a) the importance of ER for children with DLD, (b) emotion-focused communication and engagement with their child, and (c) the integration of emotions into daily life. This study is the first known study that explores parents' beliefs about children with DLD ER skills, highlighting the importance of supporting parents through accessible interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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3. Preconception health and care policies, strategies and guidelines in the UK and Ireland: a scoping review.
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Cassinelli, Emma H., McKinley, Michelle C., Kent, Lisa, Eastwood, Kelly-Ann, Schoenaker, Danielle A. J. M., Trew, David, Stoikidou, Theano, and McGowan, Laura
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PRECONCEPTION care , *HEALTH policy , *GOVERNMENT websites , *MEDICAL personnel , *HEALTH websites , *LIFE course approach - Abstract
Background: Preconception health has the potential to improve parental, pregnancy and infant outcomes. This scoping review aims to (1) provide an overview of the strategies, policies, guidelines, frameworks, and recommendations available in the UK and Ireland that address preconception health and care, identifying common approaches and health-influencing factors that are targeted; and (2) conduct an audit to explore the awareness and use of resources found in the scoping review amongst healthcare professionals, to validate and contextualise findings relevant to Northern Ireland. Methods: Grey literature resources were identified through Google Advanced Search, NICE, OpenAire, ProQuest and relevant public health and government websites. Resources were included if published, reviewed, or updated between January 2011 and May 2022. Data were extracted into Excel and coded using NVivo. The review design included the involvement of the "Healthy Reproductive Years" Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement advisory panel. Results: The searches identified 273 resources, and a subsequent audit with healthcare professionals in Northern Ireland revealed five additional preconception health-related resources. A wide range of resource types were identified, and preconception health was often not the only focus of the resources reviewed. Resources proposed approaches to improve preconception health and care, such as the need for improved awareness and access to care, preconceptual counselling, multidisciplinary collaborations, and the adoption of a life-course approach. Many behavioural (e.g., folic acid intake, smoking), biomedical (e.g., mental and physical health conditions), and environmental and social (e.g., deprivation) factors were identified and addressed in the resources reviewed. In particular, pre-existing physical health conditions were frequently mentioned, with fewer resources addressing psychological factors and mental health. Overall, there was a greater focus on women's, rather than men's, behaviours. Conclusions: This scoping review synthesised existing resources available in the UK and Ireland to identify a wide range of common approaches and factors that influence preconception health and care. Efforts are needed to implement the identified resources (e.g., strategies, guidelines) to support people of childbearing age to access preconception care and optimise their preconception health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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4. Commissioning and co‐production in health and care services in the United Kingdom and Ireland: An exploratory literature review.
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Scott, Rebecca J., Mathie, Elspeth, Newman, Hannah J. H., Almack, Kathryn, and Brady, Louca‐Mai
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MEDICAL care laws , *MEDICAL care standards , *HEALTH services administration , *MEDICAL quality control , *RESEARCH funding , *SYSTEMATIC reviews , *MEDLINE , *THEMATIC analysis , *HEALTH equity , *PUBLIC health , *PATIENT participation - Abstract
Introduction: This exploratory literature review seeks to examine the literature around commissioning processes in the co‐production of health and care services, focusing on two questions: How do health and care commissioning processes facilitate and/or pose barriers to co‐production in service design and delivery? What are the contextual factors that influence these processes? Method: A systematic search of three databases (Medline, Public Health and Social Policy and Practice) and a search platform (Web of Science) was conducted for the period 2008–2023. A total of 2675 records were retrieved. After deduplication, 1925 were screened at title and abstract level. Forty‐seven reports from 42 United Kingdom and Ireland studies were included in the review. A thematic synthesis of included studies was conducted in relation to the research questions. Results: The review identified one overarching theme across the synthesised literature: the complexity of the commissioning landscape. Three interconnected subthemes illuminate the contextual factors that influence this landscape: commissioners as leaders of co‐production; navigating relationships and the collective voice. Conclusion: Commissioning processes were commonly a barrier to the co‐production of health and care services. Though co‐production was an aspiration for many commissioners, the political and economic environment and service pressures meant that it was often not fully realised. More flexible funding models, longer‐term pilot projects, an increased emphasis in social value across the health and care system and building capacity for strong leadership in commissioning is needed. Patient and Public Contribution: Patients and the public did not contribute to this review as it was a small piece of work following on from a completed project, with no budget for public involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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5. Puppy Socialisation Experiences in Relation to Age and COVID-19 Lockdown Restrictions in the UK and ROI.
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Kinsman, Rachel H., Jim, Hoi-Lam, Casey, Rachel A., Ruiz-Izaguirre, Eliza, Owczarczak-Garstecka, Sara, Cooper, Ben, Tasker, Séverine, and Murray, Jane K.
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STAY-at-home orders , *SOCIALIZATION , *PUPPIES , *COVID-19 pandemic , *COVID-19 - Abstract
Simple Summary: For dogs and their owners to live in harmony, owner expectations and the behaviour of their dogs need to be aligned. Limited socialisation can contribute to the development of undesirable behaviours, so the reduced socialisation opportunities for many puppies during the COVID-19 lockdown is a concern. This United Kingdom/Republic of Ireland study used data collected between May 2016 and November 2022 to examine the impact of age and lockdown phase (pre-, during, and post-) on the types of socialisation experiences of 8-to-19-week-old puppies and the recency of socialisation experiences of 6-month-old puppies. The findings showed that puppies under 19-weeks had more types of experiences as they aged, and during pre-lockdown compared to post-lockdown, but not between other lockdown phases. Most 6-month-old puppies had met new adults or dogs, familiar dogs, or children within the last 1–7 days, regardless of lockdown phase. However, during lockdown, 6-month-old puppies experienced longer periods between meeting new adults in their homes. Overall, lockdown had a smaller impact on socialisation experiences than expected, but the quantity and quality of these experiences may have been affected. Future research will explore whether these early-life experiences relate to adult behaviour as the dogs in the study grow older. Limited socialisation can contribute to the development of undesirable dog behaviours. The COVID-19 lockdown potentially limited socialisation opportunities, which may negatively impact the future behaviour of puppies raised during lockdown. Data were gathered from longitudinal study participants in the United Kingdom/Republic of Ireland via multiple questionnaires between May 2016 and November 2022. The impact of age and lockdown phase (pre-, during, and post-) on the types of socialisation experiences of 8-to-19-week-old puppies and the recency of socialisation experiences of approximately 6-month-old puppies were examined. Puppies under 19-weeks had significantly more types of socialisation experiences (from a predefined list) as they aged, and pre-lockdown compared to post-lockdown, but not between other lockdown phases. Most 6-month-old puppies had met a new adult or dog outside the household, a familiar dog, and/or a child within the last 1–7 days, and this was similar between lockdown phases. During lockdown, 6-month-old puppies experienced longer periods between meeting a new adult in their home. Puppies were hypothesised to have had fewer experiences during lockdown, but this was not found. However, the quantity and quality of these experiences may have been affected. Future research within this longitudinal study will explore relationships between the timing and type of experiences had by puppies and their subsequent behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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6. Zoonotic infections in UK and Irish veterinary students: a cross-sectional survey.
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Furtado, Tamzin, Kennedy, Lois, Pinchbeck, Gina, and Tulloch, John S. P.
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VETERINARY students , *STUDENT surveys , *ZOONOSES , *VETERINARY colleges , *ATTITUDE change (Psychology) - Abstract
Background: Zoonotic infections are a recognised risk for the veterinary community. Veterinary students are at risk, due to the range of activities they participate with on training coupled with their inexperience; yet the prevalence and severity of infections in veterinary students has been little studied. In this study, a survey explored zoonotic infections in UK and Irish veterinary students. Methods: A survey containing both open and closed questions, was distributed to undergraduate veterinary students at all veterinary schools in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Descriptive statistics, and univariable logistic regression were used to explore quantitative data; thematic analysis was used to explore qualitative data. Results: There were 467 responses, 31.5% (95% CI 27.3–35.9, n = 147) of those students reported having contracted at least one zoonotic infection during their studies. The most prevalent self-reported infections were cryptosporidiosis (15.2% of all respondents), dermatophytosis (5.6%), and other gastrointestinal infections assumed to be of zoonotic origin (4.5%). 7% of respondents reported having acquired a zoonosis within the last 12 months, 91% of these infections were acquired during farm placements. Thematic analysis (n = 34) showed that infection was an accepted risk, particularly on farm, and students were often reluctant to take time off their studies or placements as a result of infection. Reporting was very low, meaning universities would not have accurate figures on infection risk or particularly risky placement providers. Conclusions: Based on these survey results, veterinary students appear to be at increased risk of contracting zoonotic diseases, particularly on farm placements. Attitude and behaviour change at multiple levels is required to reduce the risk of infection to students and normalise reporting of illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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7. When describing harms and benefits to potential trial participants, participant information leaflets are inadequate.
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Cuddihy, Laura, Howick, Jeremy, Murphy, Ellen, and Shiely, Frances
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ETHICAL decision making , *PAMPHLETS , *PATIENT autonomy , *TRUST , *CLINICAL trials - Abstract
Background: Providing informed consent for trials requires providing trial participants with comprehensive information about the trial, including information about potential risks and benefits. It is required by the ethical principle of respecting patient autonomy. Our study examines the variation in the way information about potential trial benefits and harms is shared in participant information leaflets (PILs). Methods: A total of 214 PILs and informed consent forms from clinical trials units (CTUs) and Clinical Research Facilities (CRFs) in Ireland and the UK were assessed by two authors independently, to check the extent to which they adhered to seven recently developed principles. Discrepancies were resolved by a third. Results: Usage of the seven principles varied widely between PILs regardless of the intended recipient or trial type. None of the PILs used more than four principles, and some (4%) used none. Twenty-seven per cent of PILs presented information about all known potential harms, whereas 45% presented information on all known potential benefits. Some PILs did not provide any potential harms or potential benefits (8%). There was variation in the information contained in adult and children PILs and across disease areas. Conclusion: Significant variation exists in how potential trial benefits and harms are described to potential trial participants in PILs in our sample. Usage of the seven principles of good practice will promote consistency, ensure informed ethical decision-making and invoke trust and transparency. In the long term, a standardised PIL template is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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8. ADVANCEMENT OF THE PRACTICE: INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES. Examining Food Safety Inspections: Do They Meet the Grade to Protect Public Health?
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Barnes, Jason, Smith, James, Whiley, Harriet, and Ross, Kirstin
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FOOD contamination prevention , *FOOD service laws , *FOOD poisoning prevention , *FOOD quality , *ENVIRONMENTAL health , *FOOD safety , *SANITARIANS , *DESCRIPTIVE statistics , *FOOD industry , *INTERNATIONAL relations , *SURVEYS , *BUSINESS , *PUBLIC health , *HEALTH promotion , *DATA analysis software - Abstract
Globally, foodborne illness is a significant public health challenge. Food safety inspection plays a crucial role in the regulation of food businesses to prevent foodborne illnesses. To be an effective health protection measure, however, food safety inspections must facilitate the thorough evaluation of food safety risks. Our research examined how food safety inspectors from Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and the U.S. assessed food contamination control during food premise inspections. Data were collected via an online survey of environmental health practitioners who routinely conduct food safety inspections. The findings indicated that inspectors are generally aware of food safety hazards that can be present at food businesses and have deployed a variety of relevant data-gathering methods to inform their examination of the extent of contamination control. The findings also indicated a prevailing methodological incongruence stemming from the absence of a robust inspection methodology. We propose that these shortcomings be addressed by solutions that are formulated based on established hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) principles and qualitative field research. The development of a clear and appropriate methodology will support food safety inspections to provide a robust and reliable means for evaluating food safety risk and ultimately reduce the incidence and burden of foodborne illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
9. Natural history and outcomes in paediatric RASopathy‐associated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
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Boleti, Olga, Norrish, Gabrielle, Field, Ella, Dady, Kathleen, Summers, Kim, Nepali, Gauri, Bhole, Vinay, Uzun, Orhan, Wong, Amos, Daubeney, Piers E. F., Stuart, Graham, Fernandes, Precylia, McLeod, Karen, Ilina, Maria, Ali, Muhammad Najih Liaqath, Bharucha, Tara, Donne, Grazia Delle, Brown, Elspeth, Linter, Katie, and Jones, Caroline B.
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HYPERTROPHIC cardiomyopathy ,NATURAL history ,CARDIAC arrest ,NOONAN syndrome ,VENTRICULAR tachycardia - Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to describe the natural history and predictors of all‐cause mortality and sudden cardiac death (SCD)/equivalent events in children with a RASopathy syndrome and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Methods and results: This is a retrospective cohort study from 14 paediatric cardiology centres in the United Kingdom and Ireland. We included children <18 years with HCM and a clinical and/or genetic diagnosis of a RASopathy syndrome [Noonan syndrome (NS), NS with multiple lentigines (NSML), Costello syndrome (CS), cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome (CFCS), and NS with loose anagen hair (NS‐LAH)]. One hundred forty‐nine patients were recruited [111 (74.5%) NS, 12 (8.05%) NSML, 6 (4.03%) CS, 6 (4.03%) CFCS, 11 (7.4%) Noonan‐like syndrome, and 3 (2%) NS‐LAH]. NSML patients had higher left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient values [60 (36–80) mmHg, P = 0.004]. Over a median follow‐up of 197.5 [inter‐quartile range (IQR) 93.58–370] months, 23 patients (15.43%) died at a median age of 24.1 (IQR 5.6–175.9) months. Survival was 96.45% [95% confidence interval (CI) 91.69–98.51], 90.42% (95% CI 84.04–94.33), and 84.12% (95% CI 75.42–89.94) at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively, but this varied by RASopathy syndrome. RASopathy syndrome, symptoms at baseline, congestive cardiac failure (CCF), non‐sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT), and maximal left ventricular wall thickness were identified as predictors of all‐cause mortality on univariate analysis, and CCF, NSVT, and LVOT gradient were predictors for SCD or equivalent event. Conclusions: These findings highlight a distinct category of patients with Noonan‐like syndrome with a milder HCM phenotype but significantly worse survival and identify potential predictors of adverse outcome in patients with RASopathy‐related HCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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10. Delays in Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis (DIMES): protocol for a multicentre, observational study of multiple sclerosis diagnostic pathways in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland.
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Kuri, Ashvin, Henshall, David E., Chaudhry, Daoud, Ooi, Setthasorn Zhi Yang, Zhang, Qiqi, Mathews, Joela, Thomson, Alison, Rog, David, Hobart, Jeremy, and Dobson, Ruth
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MULTIPLE sclerosis , *DIME , *YOUNG adults , *THERAPEUTICS , *SCIENTIFIC observation - Abstract
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of non-traumatic disability in young adults. Accumulating evidence indicates early diagnosis and early treatment improves long-term outcomes. However, the MS diagnostic pathway is increasingly complex, and delays may occur at several stages. Factors causing delays remain understudied. We aim to quantify the time taken for MS to be diagnosed, and characterise the diagnostic pathway and initial care provided, in the United Kingdom (UK) and Republic of Ireland (ROI). Methods: Delays In MultiplE Sclerosis diagnosis (DIMES) in the UK and ROI is a multicentre, observational, retrospective study that will be conducted via the Neurology and Neurosurgery Interest Group (NANSIG) collaborative network. Any hospital in the UK and ROI providing an MS diagnostic service is eligible to participate. Data on consecutive individuals newly diagnosed with MS between 1st July 2022 and 31st December 2022 will be collected. The primary outcomes are 1) time from symptoms/signs prompting referral to neurology, to MS diagnosis; and 2) time from referral to neurology for suspected MS, to MS diagnosis. Secondary outcomes include: MS symptoms, referring specialties, investigations performed, neurology appointments, functional status, use of disease modifying treatments, and support at diagnosis including physical activity, and follow up. Demographic characteristics of people newly diagnosed with MS will be summarised, adherence to quality standards summarised as percentages, and time-to-event variables presented with survival curves. Multivariable models will be used to investigate the association of demographic and clinical factors with time to MS diagnosis, as defined in our primary outcomes. Discussion: DIMES aims to be the largest multicentre study of the MS diagnostic pathway in the UK and ROI. The proposed data collection provides insights that cannot be provided from contemporary registries, and the findings will inform approaches to MS services nationally in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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11. The burden of disease in metachromatic leukodystrophy: results of a caregiver survey in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
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Thomas, Sophie, Morrison, Alexandra, Morton, Georgina, Roberts, Pat, Clark, Vivienne, and Imrie, Jackie
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CAREGIVERS , *LYSOSOMAL storage diseases , *HEMATOPOIETIC stem cells , *SYMPTOM burden , *PATIENTS - Abstract
Background: Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare, autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease characterised by the progressive loss of motor function and severe decline in cognitive function. Limited information is available on the burden MLD places on patients and their families and the medical and social support these patients need. Three UK-based MLD patient organisations commissioned an online survey, and follow-up semi-structured interviews to describe and quantify these burdens across MLD subtypes, stage of disease (including end of life) and treatment status (untreated, gene therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant [HSCT]). Results: A total of 24 patients were included in the study: thirteen late infantile (LI), six early juvenile (EJ), two late juvenile (LJ) and three adult onset (AO). Six patients had received gene therapy and one had received an HSCT. MLD patients receiving no disease modifying treatment bore a high symptom burden: 94% were wheelchair dependent, 88% required tube feeding, 88% were incontinent, 82% had lost their speech and all the children were either unable to attend education or needed specialist provision. Patients were reliant on numerous medical interventions and assistive equipment. All early-onset patients (LI and EJ) were wheelchair dependent, and tube fed, with all EJ patients having lost all speech. The caregiving responsibilities of parents impacted their employment, finances, relationships and health. Patients treated with gene therapy or HSCT were more mobile and were able to eat normally and two thirds of the children were able to attend mainstream school. Conclusions: The impact of illness that patients and their caregivers faced was extensive, and the level of care, amount of medication, number of hospital visits and educational support required were substantial. Financial constraints often brought about by inability to work also placed considerable strain on families. The study increases understanding of the burden of MLD on patients and their families, and the level of unmet need in the treatment of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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12. Superbugs online: co-production of an educational website to increase public understanding of the microbial world in, on, and around us.
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Tyrrell, Jon M., Hatch, Sarah, Flanagan, Melissa, Owen, Kerry, Proctor, Yvonne, Stone, Catherine, Fricker, Geoff, Hullis, Kirk, and Eberl, Matthias
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MULTIDRUG resistance in bacteria ,CONSCIOUSNESS raising ,DRUG resistance in microorganisms ,SCIENCE education ,WEB designers ,HYGIENE ,INTERACTIVE videos - Abstract
Digital tools and online presence have become a cornerstone in public engagement and involvement strategy and delivery. We here describe the coproduction process behind launching a new multilingual resource for schools in the United Kingdom and beyond, jointly between university scientists, engagement professionals, primary and secondary teachers, and web designers. The 'Superbugs' website aims at raising awareness and increasing the public understanding of the microbial world in, on, and around us--with a focus on infection, hygiene, and antimicrobial resistance--and attracted >19,000 online visitors, >33,500 page views, and > 775,000 Twitter impressions over the past 24 months. Superbugs.online is available in English, Welsh, Irish, and Scottish Gaelic, thus making it accessible to everyone in the United Kingdom and Ireland, regardless of the language in which they receive and deliver their science education. The website is easy to navigate and features background information, quizzes, animations, videos, illustrated stories, interactive timelines, games, and protocols for home experiments. All materials are presented in a non-prescriptive way, aimed at allowing flexibility for the materials to be adapted to the individual needs of teachers and pupils alike. Our study has led to a demonstrable impact on the co-production team and on pupils and teachers as key stakeholders, based on a comprehensive evaluation of the co-production process itself, the impact of the end product, and the creation of lasting relationships with stakeholders and co-producers, for the mutual benefit of everyone involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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13. Patient and public involvement in international research: Perspectives of a team of researchers from six countries on collaborating with people with lived experiences of dementia and end‐of‐life.
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Vellani, Shirin, Yous, Marie‐Lee, Rivas, Vanessa Maradiaga, Lucchese, Stephanie, Kruizinga, Julia, Sussman, Tamara, Abelson, Julia, Akhtar‐Danesh, Noori, Bravo, Gina, Brazil, Kevin, Ganann, Rebecca, and Kaasalainen, Sharon
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PSYCHIATRY , *CAREGIVER attitudes , *PATIENT participation , *TERMINAL care , *HUMAN research subjects , *STRATEGIC planning , *RESEARCH methodology , *PATIENT selection , *INTERVIEWING , *CULTURAL pluralism , *EXPERIENCE , *QUALITATIVE research , *INTERPROFESSIONAL relations , *PSYCHOLOGY of caregivers , *RESEARCH funding , *REFLEXIVITY , *THEMATIC analysis , *DIFFUSION of innovations - Abstract
Background: Patient and public involvement (PPI) is a critical priority in research, policy, academia and advocacy organizations. PPI in dementia research is gaining momentum. However, these efforts are missing in international projects aimed at those living with advanced dementia in long‐term care (LTC) homes. Additional complexities can arise in enacting PPI within the context of integration of a palliative approach to care and experiences around end‐of‐life in (EOL) dementia. The mySupport study involved implementing the Family Carer Decision Support (FCDS) intervention for care partners of those living with advanced dementia in LTC in six countries. Research Design and Objective: An interpretive description study was conducted to explore the perspectives of international researchers from six countries on engaging people with lived experiences of dementia and EOL care in research processes. The findings from this study informed the development of a PPI strategy and a subsequent toolkit for the FCDS intervention. Findings: Thirty‐eight interviews were completed with project researchers: 12 from the United Kingdom, 8 from Canada, 7 from Ireland, 4 each from Italy and The Netherlands and 3 from the Czech Republic. Four broad themes describe international researchers' perspectives on advancing methods of engagement for people with lived experiences of dementia and EOL in international PPI activities: (1) Groundwork to engage in research; (2) planning for research activities is key; (3) focus on meaningful engagement and (4) having foresight for practical issues shaping PPI. Discussion and Implications: International projects that involve PPI can present many sources of challenges. The findings in this study highlight important considerations for foundational work for incorporating PPI in international projects. Learning from world leaders and those with lived experiences in various regions can be insightful and help share tools and resources. Patient or Public Contribution: PPI was envisioned as a critical part of conducting the mySupport study. The findings from this study informed the development of a PPI strategy and an international Strategic Guiding Council that included family carers of those living with advanced dementia in LTC homes in six countries. This manuscript focused on the perspectives of researchers on their engagement with people with lived experiences of dementia and EOL. The perspectives of persons with lived experiences on engaging in the mySupport research study will be reported in a forthcoming manuscript. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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14. The lived experiences of oropharyngeal dysphagia in adults living with fibromyalgia.
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Gilheaney, Órla, Hussey, Joeann, and McTiernan, Kathleen
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STRATEGIC planning , *RESEARCH methodology , *DEGLUTITION disorders , *ECOLOGY , *INTERVIEWING , *EXPERIENCE , *FIBROMYALGIA , *QUALITATIVE research , *COMPARATIVE studies , *PHENOMENOLOGY , *SOUND recordings , *THEMATIC analysis , *ANXIETY , *PSYCHOLOGICAL adaptation , *STATISTICAL sampling , *VIDEO recording , *SYMPTOMS , *ADULTS - Abstract
Background: Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition which has recently been linked with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). However, to date, sample sizes within completed research are small and study designs heterogeneous, and therefore, little is known about the lived experiences of dysphagia among people with fibromyalgia. To go some way towards addressing this gap in the literature, this study collected and analysed the first‐hand experiences of the physical symptoms, the psychosocial impacts and environmental factors that influenced the lived experience of a sample of people living with fibromyalgia‐associated dysphagia. Methods: Qualitative semi‐structured interviews were conducted with adults with dysphagia and fibromyalgia. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed and themes were identified regarding the reported experience and impact of swallowing problems. The same researcher conducted the interviews and extracted all data, and a second researcher analysed a random sample of 5% of the data for accuracy, with no disagreements arising between the two researchers. Results: All participants (n = 8) reported the negative psychosocial impact of their dysphagia. Participants reported managing their dysphagia independently, primarily using compensatory strategies. Participants discussed feeling unsupported in healthcare interactions due to clinicians not understanding the occurrence, nature or impact of eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties. Participants also reported that they did not have access to evidence‐based management strategies that adequately addressed their fibromyalgia‐related swallowing problems. Conclusions: Despite minimal previous research in this area, findings here highlight the impact that dysphagia has on people with fibromyalgia. A broad range of physical symptoms were reported to have negative consequences across both social and emotional domains. The reported symptoms often required complex coping strategies and sometimes impeded participants from seeking suitable medical intervention from healthcare providers. There are both broad‐ranging implications of fibromyalgia‐associated dysphagia and reported poor perceptions of medical interactions for this cohort of patients. Therefore, there is evidently a need for clinical research into the management of this condition to develop patient‐centred care delivery options and to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide efficacious management to this group. Patient or Public Contribution: Before initiation of the qualitative interviews, the interview schedule was piloted with an individual living with fibromyalgia and dysphagia, with feedback provided on the appropriate wording and format of semi‐structured questioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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15. Mechanisms of Action and Preservation Effects of Packaging Systems for Mushrooms: Novel Approaches to Preserve Irish Edible Mushrooms.
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Shonte, Tigist Tadesse, Mulla, Mehraj Fatema, Foley, Lorraine, and Pathania, Shivani
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EDIBLE mushrooms ,EDIBLE coatings ,MUSHROOMS ,PACKAGING ,SWOT analysis ,PACKAGING materials - Abstract
Mushrooms support the Irish economy, with a farm gate value of roughly EUR 130 million in 2022 and with 80%–85% of Irish production exported to the United Kingdom. In order to apply cutting edge technologies and offer creative solutions to increase the shelf life of mushrooms, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of action and preservation effects of the current trends in edible mushroom packaging systems. This review summarises the mechanisms of action for nanopackaging, biodegradable packaging, edible coatings, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and active packaging in terms of their enzyme activity, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, and rate of respiration along with the changes in texture, colour, nutritional value, and shelf life of mushrooms reflected in the preservation effects of these packaging systems. SWOT analysis highlights the strengths, weaknesses, and threats of these packaging systems and provides potential opportunities for trialing innovative packaging materials for fresh edible mushrooms in Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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16. How can quality be measured within a physician-led Community Emergency Medical service? A scoping review protocol.
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Scott, Jamie, Thomas, Libby, Joy, Tony, and McCrossan, Paddy
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EMERGENCY medical services , *COMMUNITY health services , *EMERGENCY medicine , *GREY literature , *CINAHL database - Abstract
Background: Quality measurement as part of quality improvement in healthcare is integral for service delivery and development. This is particularly pertinent for health services that deliver care in ways that differ from traditional practice. Community Emergency Medicine (CEM) is a novel and evolving concept of care delivered by services in parts of the UK and Ireland. This scoping review aims to provide a broad overview of how quality may be measured within services delivering CEM. Methods and analysis: The methodology follows both the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). It is guided by recognised work of Arksey and O'Malley and the guidelines developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. Several databases will be searched: MEDLINE, EMbase, EMcare, CINAHL, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and grey literature. Search terms have been developed by representatives within Community Emergency Medicine services. Two reviewers will independently screen eligible studies for final study selection. Results will be collected and analysed in descriptive and tabular form to illustrate the breadth of quality indicators that may be applicable to CEM services. This scoping review protocol has been registered with the Open Science Framework platform (osf.io/e7qxg). Discussion: This is the first stage of a larger research study aimed at developing national quality indicators for CEM. The purpose of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive review of quality indicators that could be used within CEM. The results will be mapped using a framework and identify gaps in the literature to help guide future-focused research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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17. A Basque Media War: Who is Ireland’s Friend, Who is Ireland’s Enemy? The Easter Rising’s Influence, Context and Development in the Basque Country.
- Author
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Azpíroz, Alejandro Pulido
- Subjects
- *
WORLD War I , *WAR , *POLITICAL autonomy , *AUTONOMY & independence movements ,EASTER Rising, Ireland, 1916 ,BRITISH military - Abstract
This paper examines the inner debate in Basque nationalism resulting from the Easter Rising between 1916 and 1918. Basque nationalists firmly believed that the Irish Revolution would affect the British war effort, the outcome of the Great War and hence Basque political vindication itself. The official nationalist leadership and its organ, Euzkadi, supported Great Britain, arguing a British military triumph in Ireland and in the Great War would bring a worldwide era of autonomy for national minorities. Pro-independence militants, however, not only expressed solidarity and outspoken support towards the rebels, but also associated their victory with a post-war scenario favourable to independence movements. This study focuses on the two competing Basque nationalist interpretations as presented in the media. Simultaneously, traditionalist parties (i.e. Carlists and Integrists) exacerbated nationalists’ differences in order to weaken a direct political rival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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18. A survey of foot disinfection practices for control of bovine digital dermatitis: Evaluating solution depth, footbath hygiene, and the potential of footbaths as infection reservoirs for Treponema species.
- Author
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Gillespie A, Vanhoudt A, Benedictus L, McAloon CG, Logan F, Spaninks M, and Viora L
- Subjects
- Animals, Cattle, Female, Netherlands, Treponemal Infections veterinary, Treponemal Infections prevention & control, Ireland, United Kingdom, Treponema, Digital Dermatitis prevention & control, Cattle Diseases prevention & control, Cattle Diseases microbiology, Disinfection, Hygiene
- Abstract
Bovine digital dermatitis remains a widespread endemic disease of dairy cattle worldwide. Footbathing is commonly used as a control measure and has significant economic and environmental impacts. Few studies document footbathing practices on dairy farms or evaluate their suitability for achieving foot disinfection. This study describes footbathing practices on 32 farms observed in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Netherlands. We measured solution depth throughout footbathing and observed levels below 7 cm on 9 out of 32 farms, which leads to inadequate foot coverage. Solution depth was associated with the number of cow passages and decreased by 1.2 cm for every 100 cow passages. We also describe levels of OM content (g/L) throughout footbathing as a proxy for footbath hygiene. Our data indicates that almost half of footbaths (15/32) became contaminated above the 20 g/L threshold to which veterinary biocides are tested for efficacy, and that OM content is associated with the number of cow passages per liter of footbathing solution provided. A multivariable mixed model predicted that 1 L of footbathing solution per cow should be sufficient to prevent excess contamination. As a further measure of hygiene, we tested a subset of footbath samples to quantify the amount of DNA present from the Treponema species which are considered instrumental in the etiology of digital dermatitis. We did not detect Treponema DNA in footbath samples, which suggested they are unlikely to act as infection reservoirs for this disease. Multivariable mixed models including farm identity as a random effect demonstrated that for both change in solution depth and OM content the effect of farm-level factors was large. Because of the magnitude of this farm effect, applying model predictions will not translate to adequate solution depth and hygiene on all farms. Our data highlights the importance of footbath auditing on individual farms., (The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the American Dairy Science Association®. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)
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- 2024
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19. Review of the national usage of antibiotics in arthroplasty surgery: a need for evidence-based prescribing.
- Author
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Hassanzadeh H, Ferro A, Woods K, and Baring T
- Subjects
- Humans, United Kingdom, Ireland, Practice Patterns, Physicians' statistics & numerical data, Practice Guidelines as Topic, Evidence-Based Medicine, Cefuroxime administration & dosage, Cefuroxime therapeutic use, Gentamicins administration & dosage, Gentamicins therapeutic use, Floxacillin administration & dosage, Floxacillin therapeutic use, Antibiotic Prophylaxis statistics & numerical data, Antibiotic Prophylaxis standards, Surgical Wound Infection prevention & control, Anti-Bacterial Agents administration & dosage, Anti-Bacterial Agents therapeutic use, Arthroplasty adverse effects
- Abstract
Introduction: Surgical site infections (SSI) remain one of the most serious complications of arthroplasty surgery. The role of antibiotic prophylaxis in preventing SSI post-arthroplasty is well established. However, there is considerable heterogeneity in prophylactic prescribing across the United Kingdom (UK), which is contradicted by the contemporaneous evidence. This descriptive study aimed to compare the current first-line antibiotic recommendations across hospitals in the UK and The Republic of Ireland for elective arthroplasty procedures., Methods: The MicroGuide mobile phone application was used to access hospital antibiotic guidelines. First-line antibiotic recommendation and dosing regimen for primary elective arthroplasties were recorded., Findings: A total of nine distinct antibiotic regimens were identified through our search. The most frequently used first-line antibiotic was cefuroxime. This was recommended by 30 of the 83 (36.1%) hospitals in the study. This was followed by a combination of flucloxacillin and gentamicin, which was used by 38 of 124 (31%) hospitals. There was also significant heterogeneity in dosing regimens. A single prophylactic dose was most commonly recommended (52%); 4% of hospitals recommended two prophylactic doses, 19% three doses and 23% four doses., Conclusions: Single-dose prophylaxis is recognised as at least noninferior to multiple-dose prophylaxis in primary arthroplasty. There is considerable variation in the local antibiotic recommendations for surgical site prophylaxis post-primary arthroplasty surgery, with respect to both recommended first-line antibiotic and dosing regimens. With increasing emphasis on the importance of antibiotic stewardship and the emergence of antibiotic resistance, this study highlights the need for an evidence-based approach to prophylactic dosing across the UK.
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- 2024
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20. Upper gastrointestinal training in the UK and Ireland: a Roux Group Study.
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Robinson D, Zakeri R, Brown LR, Laing RW, Choh C, Askari A, Abouelazayem M, Bradley A, Currie AC, Elmasry M, Evans R, Gall T, Jerome E, Raftery NB, Samuel M, Spiers H, and Chan B
- Subjects
- Humans, United Kingdom, Ireland, Surveys and Questionnaires, Clinical Competence, Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal education, Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal statistics & numerical data, Robotic Surgical Procedures education, Robotic Surgical Procedures statistics & numerical data, Attitude of Health Personnel, Education, Medical, Graduate
- Abstract
Introduction: Surgical training programmes in the United Kingdom and Ireland (UK&I) are in a state of flux. This study aims to report the contemporary opinions of trainee and consultant surgeons on the current upper gastrointestinal (UGI) training model in the UK&I., Methods: A questionnaire was developed and distributed via national UGI societies. Questions pertained to demographics, current training evaluation, perceived requirements and availability., Results: A total of 241 responses were received with representation from all UK&I postgraduate training regions. The biggest discrepancies between rotation demand and national availability related to advanced/therapeutic endoscopy and robotic surgery, with 91.7% of respondents stating they would welcome greater geographical flexibility in training. The median suggested academic targets were 3-5 publications (trainee vs consultant <3 vs 3-5, p <0.001); <3 presentations (<3 vs 3-5, p =0.002); and 3-5 audits/quality improvement projects (<3 vs 3-5, p <0.001). Current operative requirements were considered achievable (87.6%) but inadequate for day one consultant practice (74.7%). Reassuringly, 76.3% deemed there was role for on-the-job operative training following consultant appointment. Proficiency in diagnostic endoscopy was considered a minimum requirement for Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) yet the majority regarded therapeutic endoscopy competency as non-essential. The median numbers of index UGI operations suggested were comparable with the current curriculum requirements. Post-CCT fellowships were not considered necessary; however, the majority (73.6%) recognised their advantage., Conclusions: Current CCT requirements are largely consistent with the opinions of the UGI community. Areas for improvement include flexibility in geographical working and increasing national provisions for high-quality endoscopy training.
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- 2024
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21. Remote physical activity intervention to promote physical activity and health in adolescent girls (the HERizon project): a multi-arm, pilot randomised trial.
- Author
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Cowley ES, Watson PM, Paterson C, Wagenmakers AJM, Thompson A, Belton S, Thijssen D, and Foweather L
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- Humans, Female, Adolescent, Pilot Projects, Ireland, United Kingdom, Physical Fitness, Health Promotion methods, Exercise psychology
- Abstract
Background: Engaging in physical activity (PA) during adolescence is beneficial for health and positive development. However, most adolescent girls have low PA levels, and there is a need for interventions outside of school hours. This pilot randomised controlled trial aimed to explore the preliminary effectiveness of three different remote PA interventions in increasing adolescent girls' moderate-to- vigorous PA (MVPA), fitness and psychosocial outcomes., Methods: Girls living in the UK or Ireland, aged between 13 and 16 years old, who wished to increase their activity levels, were eligible for the study. Using a random number generator, participants (n = 153; 14.8y ± 1.4) were randomised into one of three 12-week intervention groups (i) PA programme, (ii) Behaviour change support, or (iii) Combined PA programme and Behaviour change support, or (iv) a Comparison group. Outcome measures included accelerometer and self-reported PA, physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness; 20 m shuttle run, muscular endurance; push up, muscular strength; long jump), and psychosocial assessments (perceived competence; body appreciation; self-esteem; behavioural regulation). Linear mixed models were used to analyse differences between each intervention arm and the comparison group immediately postintervention (12 weeks) and at follow up (3-months post-intervention), while adjusting for potential confounders., Results: Participation in the PA programme group was associated with higher perceived competence (0.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.2), identified regulation (0.7, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.1) and intrinsic motivation (0.9, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.6) at post-intervention. Participation in the Behaviour change group was associated with higher perceived competence at post-intervention (0.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.2), and higher push-up scores at the 3-month follow-up (4.0, 95% CI 0.0 to 7.0). Participation in the Combined group was also associated with higher perceived competence at post-intervention (0.8, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.4), and higher push-up scores at the 3-month follow-up (5.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 8.0). No other significant differences were found between the intervention arms and the comparison group., Conclusion: Results suggest perceived competence increased across all intervention arms, while the PA programme group enhanced autonomous motivation in the short term. Intervention arms with behaviour change support appear most promising in improving muscular endurance. However, a larger scale trial is needed for a better understanding of between-group differences and the impact of intervention arms on MVPA and fitness, given the small sample size and short-term follow-up., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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22. Unprecedented Harmful algal bloom in the UK and Ireland's largest lake associated with gastrointestinal bacteria, microcystins and anabaenopeptins presenting an environmental and public health risk.
- Author
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Reid N, Reyne MI, O'Neill W, Greer B, He Q, Burdekin O, McGrath JW, and Elliott CT
- Subjects
- Ireland, United Kingdom, Humans, Public Health, Environmental Monitoring, Microcystis, Bacteria genetics, Bacteria isolation & purification, Bacteria classification, Harmful Algal Bloom, Lakes microbiology, Lakes chemistry, Microcystins analysis
- Abstract
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are outbreaks of aquatic toxic microalgae emerging as a global problem driven by nutrient enrichment, global climate change and invasive species. We uniquely describe a HAB of unprecedented duration, extent and magnitude during 2023 in Lough Neagh; the UK and Ireland's largest freshwater lake, using an unparalleled combination of satellite imagery, nutrient analysis, 16S rRNA gene sequencing and cyanotoxin profiling. The causative agent Microcystis aeruginosa accounted for over a third of DNA in water samples though common bacterioplankton species also bloomed. Water phosphate levels were hypertrophic and drove local algal biomass. The HAB pervaded the entire ecosystem with algal mats accumulating around jetties, marinas and lock gates. Over 80 % of bacterial DNA isolated from algal mat samples consisted of species associated with wildfowl or livestock faeces and human-effluent wastewater including 13 potential pathogens that can cause serious human illness including: E. coli, Salmonella, Enterobacter and Clostridium among others. Ten microcystins, nodularin and two anabaenopeptin toxins were confirmed as present (with a further microcystin and four anabaenopeptins suspected), with MC-RR and -LR in high concentrations at some locations (1,137-18,493 μg/L) with MC-LR exceeding World Health Organisation (WHO) recreational exposure guidelines in all algal mats sampled. This is the first detection of anabaenopeptins in any waterbody on the island of Ireland. Notwithstanding the ecological impacts, this HAB represented an environmental and public health risk, curtailing recreational activities in-and-around the lake and damaging local businesses. Reducing agricultural runoff and discharge from human-effluent wastewater treatment to manage nutrient loading, and the public health risk, should be the top priority of stakeholders, especially government. Key recommendations include Nature-based Solutions that avoid conflict with the productivity and profitability of the farming sector enhancing sustainability. We hope this stimulates real-world action to resolve the problems besetting this internationally important ecosystem., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)
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- 2024
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23. Five minutes with... Katie Nelson: The head of laboratory leasing, UK and Ireland, at Kadans Science Partner on how she got started in property, her top podcast and music choices, the superpower she wishes she had and how she'd spend £1m.
- Author
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Nelson, Katie
- Subjects
CULTURAL pluralism ,BUSINESSPEOPLE ,VOCATIONAL guidance ,COVID-19 pandemic ,GENDER nonconformity ,JOINT ventures - Abstract
Katie Nelson, the head of laboratory leasing at Kadans Science Partner in the UK and Ireland, discusses her career in the property industry. She became interested in property after a visit from Cushman & Wakefield during her time at the University of Westminster. Nelson enjoys her job as it combines her interest in science with her fascination with buildings and property. She believes that the people in the industry, including the scientists and medical experts, are what make it truly rewarding. Nelson also emphasizes the need for greater diversity and inclusivity in the industry. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
24. Trial participants' self-reported understanding of randomisation phrases in participation information leaflets can be high, but acceptability of some descriptions is low, especially those linked to gambling and luck.
- Author
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Shiely F, Murphy E, Gilles K, Hood K, O'Sullivan L, Harman N, Isaacs T, and Treweek S
- Subjects
- Humans, Ireland, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Self Report, United Kingdom, Female, Health Literacy, Male, Informed Consent, Clinical Trials as Topic methods, Middle Aged, Adult, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic, Gambling psychology, Comprehension, Pamphlets, Research Subjects psychology, Patient Education as Topic methods
- Abstract
Background: Evidence indicates that trial participants often struggle to understand participant information leaflets (PILs) for clinical trials, including the concept of randomisation. We analysed the language used to describe randomisation in PILs and determine the most understandable and acceptable description through public and participant feedback., Methods: We collected 280 PILs/informed consent forms and one video animation from clinical research facilities/clinical trial units in Ireland and the UK. We extracted text on how randomisation was described, plus trial characteristics. We conducted content analysis to group the randomisation phrases inductively. We then excluded phrases that appeared more than once or were very similar to others. The final list of randomisation phrases was then presented to an online panel of participants and the public. Panel members were asked to rate each phrase on a 5-point Likert scale in terms of their understanding of the phrase, confidence in their understanding and acceptability of the phrase., Results: Two hundred and eighty PILs and the transcribed text from one video animation represented 229 ongoing or concluded trials. The pragmatic content analysis generated five inductive categories: (1) explanation of why randomisation is required in trials; (2) synonyms for randomisation; (3) comparative randomisation phrases; (4) elaborative phrases for randomisation (5) and phrases that describe the process of randomisation. We had 48 unique phrases, which were shared with 73 participants and members of the public. Phrases that were well understood were not necessarily acceptable. Participants understood, but disliked, comparative phrases that referenced gambling, e.g. toss of a coin, like a lottery, roll of a die. They also disliked phrases that attributed decision-making to computers or automated systems. Participants liked plain language descriptions of what randomisation is and those that did not use comparative phrases., Conclusions: Potential trial participants are clear on their likes and dislikes when it comes to describing randomisation in PILs. We make five recommendations for practice., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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25. Protocol for cost-effectiveness analysis of a randomised trial of mHealth coaching (Bump2Baby and Me) compared with usual care for healthy gestational weight gain and postnatal outcomes in at-risk women and their offspring in the UK, Australia, Ireland and Spain.
- Author
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Nørmark LP, McAuliffe F, Maindal HT, O'Reilly S, Davies A, Burden C, Skinner TC, Vrangbæk K, and Callander E
- Subjects
- Female, Humans, Infant, Newborn, Pregnancy, Australia, Cost-Effectiveness Analysis, Ireland, Mentoring methods, Mentoring economics, Quality-Adjusted Life Years, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic, Spain, United Kingdom, Diabetes, Gestational prevention & control, Diabetes, Gestational economics, Gestational Weight Gain, Telemedicine economics
- Abstract
Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus and overweight are associated with an increased likelihood of complications during birth and for the newborn baby. These complications lead to increased immediate and long-term healthcare costs as well as reduced health and well-being in women and infants. This protocol presents the health economic evaluation to investigate the cost-effectiveness of Bump2Baby and Me (B2B&Me), which is a health coaching intervention delivered via smartphone to women at risk of gestational diabetes., Methods and Analysis: Using data from the B2B&Me randomised controlled trial, this economic evaluation compares costs and health effects between the intervention and control group as an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. Direct healthcare costs, costs of pharmaceuticals and intervention costs will be included in the analysis, body weight and quality-adjusted life-years for the mother will serve as the effect outcomes. To investigate the long-term cost-effectiveness of the trial, a Markov model will be employed. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analysis will be employed., Ethics and Dissemination: The National Maternity Hospital Human Research and Ethics Committee was the primary approval site (EC18.2020) with approvals from University College Dublin HREC-Sciences (LS-E-20-150-OReilly), Junta de Andalucia CEIM/CEI Provincial de Granada (2087-M1-22), Monash Health HREC (RES-20-0000-892A) and National Health Service Health Research Authority and Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW) (21/WA/0022). The results from the analysis will be disseminated in scientific papers, through conference presentations and through different channels for communication within the project., Trial Registration Number: ACTRN12620001240932., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)
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- 2024
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26. Colliers' UK and Ireland CEO Horrell to step down in 2025.
- Author
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BENNETT-NESS, JAMIE
- Subjects
REAL estate sales ,CHIEF executive officers ,CONFERENCE rooms - Abstract
Schroder REIT is focusing on its sustainability strategy, which has attracted a wider shareholder base. The company has assessed 75% of its assets using an environmental, social, and governance scorecard. The strategy has led to an increase in retail investors and a higher level of dividend. Additionally, Colliers' UK and Ireland CEO, Tony Horrell, will retire in 2025 after significantly expanding the business during his 42-year career. The Boutique Workplace Company has signed a management agreement for space at Unite Students' Aldgate site in London. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
27. SKF UK launches Maintenance Partner Programme in EMEA: ERIKS named first partner in UK and Ireland.
- Subjects
PERSONAL names ,CONSUMERS - Abstract
SKF UK has launched its Maintenance Partner Programme in EMEA, with ERIKS being named the first partner in the UK and Ireland. The programme recognizes authorized distributors that can offer industrial customers more than just a transactional relationship. ERIKS, as a highly skilled service supplier, will use its industry-specific knowledge to perform root-cause failure analyses and advanced troubleshooting, and will exclusively use SKF products in its UK repair facilities. The partnership aims to enhance operations and elevate maintenance standards. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
28. UK and Ireland disagree over plans.
- Subjects
POLITICAL refugees ,THREATS of violence ,FREEDOM of movement - Abstract
The UK and Ireland are in disagreement over laws regarding asylum seekers. Ireland claims that a new UK policy is causing more people to seek asylum in Ireland instead of the UK. The UK recently passed a law that allows asylum seekers arriving in the UK to be sent to Rwanda to seek protection there. This policy aims to discourage people from making dangerous journeys from France to the UK. The Irish government wants to pass emergency laws to return asylum seekers who have crossed the Irish border back to the UK, but the UK Prime Minister has expressed disinterest in accepting them. Despite the disagreement, both governments are committed to maintaining a strong relationship. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
29. Mechanistic simulations of kelp populations in a dynamic landscape of light, temperature, and winter storms.
- Author
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Szewczyk, Tim M., Moore, Pippa J., Smale, Dan A., Adams, Thomas, and Burrows, Michael T.
- Subjects
- *
LAMINARIA , *MACROCYSTIS , *CARBON sequestration in forests , *KELPS , *WINTER storms , *CLIMATE extremes , *WINTER , *HEAT waves (Meteorology) , *POPULATION dynamics - Abstract
• A stochastic simulated environment drove process-based kelp population dynamics. • Frond and stipe dynamics were interlinked to allow season-specific light competition. • Fluctuations in light and winter storms induced opposing 6-yr population oscillations. • Detritus production was heavily skewed across years, increasingly so at greater depth. • More empirical work on survival and recruitment is needed, particularly for heatwaves. Kelp forests are widely distributed across the coastal ocean, support high levels of biodiversity and primary productivity, and underpin a range of ecosystem services. Laminaria hyperborea is a forest-forming kelp species in the Northeast Atlantic that alters the local environment, providing biogenic structure for a diversity of associated organisms. Populations are strongly affected by light availability, temperature, and storm-related disturbance. We constructed a stage-based, two-season model of L. hyperborea populations along the coast of Great Britain and Ireland to predict biomass across a range of depths, drawing on extensive surveys and data from the literature. Population dynamics were driven by wave exposure, historic winter storm intensity, and simulated interannual variation in temperature and depth-attenuated light intensity, with density-dependent competition for light and space. High biomass was predicted in shallow depths across the domain on suitable substrate, with populations extending deeper in the north and west where light penetration was greater. Detritus production was heavily skewed across years, particularly at greater depths, with 10 % of years comprising more than 50 % of detritus on average below 10 m depth. Annual fluctuations in light and storm intensity produced opposing population oscillations with a ∼6-year period persisting for up to a decade but diminishing sharply with depth. Interannual variation in temperature had minimal impact. Biomass was most sensitive to survival and settlement rates, with negligible sensitivity to individual growth rates. This model highlights the need for an improved understanding of canopy and subcanopy mortality, particularly regarding increasingly frequent heatwaves. Estimations of kelp forest contributions to carbon sequestration should consider the high variability among years or risk underestimating the potential value of kelp forests. Process-based simulations of populations with realistic spatiotemporal environmental variability are a valuable approach to forecasting biotic responses to an increasingly extreme climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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30. Proceedings of the 6th UK and Ireland implementation science research conference.
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- Humans, Ireland, United Kingdom, Implementation Science
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- 2024
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31. What works for whom, how and why in mental health education for undergraduate health profession students? A realist synthesis protocol.
- Author
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McCormack Z, Kerr A, Simpson A, Keating D, and Strawbridge J
- Subjects
- Humans, Curriculum, Health Education, Learning, Review Literature as Topic, United Kingdom, Ireland, Delivery of Health Care, Students, Health Occupations
- Abstract
Introduction: It has been shown that mental health education can support positive attitudes of health profession students towards people with mental health challenges, which supports them to provide optimal healthcare to this group. There are many different approaches to designing and delivering mental health education to health profession students. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages, and often mental health education programmes incorporate a multimodal approach in order to reap the benefits of a variety of teaching and learning approaches. The aim of this study is to understand the current landscape of teaching and learning approaches to mental health education for undergraduate health profession students. We will examine the features of successful outcomes for health profession students for:Learning environment.Knowledge development and retention.Confidence., Motivation: Preparedness for professional practice., Methods: For this, a realist synthesis has been chosen in order to review the literature. Realist synthesis lends itself to the review of complex interventions such as mental health education for undergraduate health profession curricula because it seeks to uncover the range of different mechanisms and context configurations that produce different outcomes. Health profession education and education practice, in general, is complex. A patient and public involvement (PPI) group is involved throughout this study and includes undergraduate health profession students, and members of the St John of Gods Hospital Consumers and Carers Council who are involved at every stage of the research. This study will engage with a stakeholder group who will support the refining of the programme theory., Ethics and Dissemination: Ethical approval has been sought and approved by Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland Ethical Committee (REC number: 212622783). We will aim to write up and publish the full synthesis as a journal article. We will also discuss ways of dissemination outside of academia with our PPI group., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2024. Re-use permitted under CC BY-NC. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)
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- 2024
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32. Episodic disability questionnaire (EDQ) measurement properties among adults living with HIV in Canada, Ireland, United Kingdom, and United States.
- Author
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O'Brien KK, Erlandson KM, Brown DA, Carusone SC, Vera JH, Bergin C, Avery L, Bayoumi AM, Hanna SE, Harding R, Solomon P, Clair-Sullivan NS, O'Shea N, Murray C, Boffito M, Da Silva G, Torres B, McDuff K, and Davis AM
- Subjects
- Adult, United States, Humans, Ireland, Reproducibility of Results, Canada, United Kingdom, Patient Reported Outcome Measures, HIV Infections
- Abstract
Background: The Episodic Disability Questionnaire (EDQ) is a generic 35-item patient-reported outcome measure of presence, severity and episodic nature of disability. We assessed the measurement properties of the Episodic Disability Questionnaire (EDQ) with adults living with HIV., Methods: We conducted a measurement study with adults living with HIV in eight clinical settings in Canada, Ireland, United Kingdom, and United States. We electronically administered the EDQ followed by three reference measures (World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule; Patient Health Questionnaire; Social Support Scale) and a demographic questionnaire. We administered the EDQ only 1 week later. We assessed the internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha; > 0.7 acceptable), and test-retest reliability (Intra Class Correlation Coefficient; > 0.7 acceptable). We estimated required change in EDQ domain scores to be 95% certain that a change was not due to measurement error (Minimum Detectable Change (MDC95%)). We evaluated construct validity by assessing 36 primary hypotheses of relationships between EDQ scores and scores on the reference measures (> 75% hypotheses confirmed indicated validity)., Results: Three hundred fifty nine participants completed the questionnaires at time point 1, of which 321 (89%) completed the EDQ approximately 1 week later. Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency ranged from 0.84 (social domain) to 0.91 (day domain) for the EDQ severity scale, and 0.72 (uncertainty domain) to 0.88 (day domain) for the EDQ presence scale, and 0.87 (physical, cognitive, mental-emotional domains) to 0.89 (uncertainty domain) for the EDQ episodic scale. ICCs for test-retest reliability ranged from 0.79 (physical domain) to 0.88 (day domain) for the EDQ severity scale and from 0.71 (uncertainty domain) to 0.85 (day domain) for the EDQ presence scale. Highest precision was demonstrated in the severity scale for each domain (MDC95% range: 19-25 out of 100), followed by the presence (MDC95% range: 37-54) and episodic scales (MDC95% range:44-76). Twenty-nine of 36 (81%) construct validity hypotheses were confirmed., Conclusions: The EDQ possesses internal consistency reliability, construct validity, and test-retest reliability, with limited precision when administered electronically with adults living with HIV across in clinical settings in four countries. Given the measurement properties, the EDQ can be used for group level comparisons for research and program evaluation in adults living with HIV., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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33. Coolest Projects 2024 remote and in person.
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ONLINE education ,SPECIAL events - Abstract
The article announces the upcoming Coolest Projects 2024 competition, which is open to young creators under the age of 18. The competition allows participants to showcase their creations, whether finished or not, and is free to enter. It is open to individuals and teams of up to five members from around the world. The event will be live-streamed globally, with in-person events taking place in the UK and Ireland. The article emphasizes the importance of participation and encourages individuals to explore their ideas with the help of online learning materials. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
34. In other news.
- Subjects
NIKON camera ,PHOTOGRAPHY festivals ,DETECTORS - Abstract
The article provides snippets of photography news from around the world. DJI has released the third-generation Osmo Pocket 3, which features a one-inch sensor, 4K video capabilities, a rotating display, and advanced focusing and recording options. The Tamron 150-500mm F/5-6.7 lens, previously available for Sony E mount, is now being launched for full-frame Nikon Z-mount cameras. The lens is expected to be released in the UK and Ireland in November. [Extracted from the article]
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- 2024
35. Clubs asked to hold bicentenary events.
- Author
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Hodgetts, Laura
- Subjects
CHARITY ,BUSINESS partnerships ,RACE ,CLUBS - Abstract
To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the RNLI in 2024, sailing clubs in the UK and Ireland are being encouraged to participate in the All Hands on Deck campaign. The campaign, supported by the RNLI's corporate partner GJW Direct, aims to raise funds for the charity's lifesaving services. Sailing clubs can organize races, collaborate with other clubs for joint events, or plan land-based charity days to show support for the RNLI's volunteer lifeboat crews. The initiative allows clubs to incorporate the campaign into existing events or create new ones specifically for the bicentenary celebration. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
36. Ireland Joins in Objecting To UK. Plan for Refugees.
- Author
-
LANDLER, MARK
- Subjects
- *
REFUGEES , *POLITICAL refugees , *WAR & emergency legislation , *LEGISLATION drafting - Abstract
The article highlights objections from various parties, including Ireland, against United Kingdom's plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda, leading to a diplomatic clash and concerns over migration challenges.
- Published
- 2024
37. Glossier Partners With Space NK Across the U.K. and Ireland: Space NK plans to stock the brand in an initial 48 stores starting in June.
- Author
-
CONTI, SAMANTHA
- Subjects
BRAND name products - Abstract
Glossier, a makeup, skincare, and fragrance brand, is partnering with Space NK to expand its presence in the U.K. and Ireland. Starting in June, Glossier products will be available in over 48 Space NK stores, including cities like Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Dublin. This partnership marks the first time Glossier will be sold across the U.K. and Ireland with a retail partner. Space NK plans to offer special customer experiences and training for its staff to drive sales. Glossier's expansion with Space NK is part of its wider international strategy, which includes partnerships with Sephora and international shipping to various countries. Space NK is also expanding its store network and aims to become a leader in fragrance. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024
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