Cost of SARS-CoV-2 self-test distribution programmes by different modalities: a micro-costing study in five countries (Brazil, Georgia, Malaysia, Ethiopia and the Philippines)
Conclusions Our results indicate that it is likely to cost between $2.44 and $12.78 per test to distribute COVID-19 self-tests across common settings in five heterogeneous countries. Cost-effectiveness analyses using these results will allow policymakers to make informed decisions on optimally scaling up COVID-19 self-test distribution programmes across diverse settings and evolving needs. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Hansen, M. A., Lekodeba, N. A., Chevalier, J. M., Ockhuisen, T., del Rey-Puech, P., Marban-Castro, E., Martinez-Perez, G. Z., Shilton, S., Radzi Abu Hassan, M., Getia, V., Weinert-Mizuschima, C., Tenorio Bezerra, M. I., Chala, L., Leong, R., Peregino, R., Tags: Open access, Health economics, COVID-19 Source Type: research

Scoping review of interventions to de-implement potentially harmful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in healthcare settings
Conclusion Many varied interventions to de-implement potentially harmful NSAIDs have been applied in healthcare settings worldwide. Based on these findings and identified knowledge gaps, further efforts to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and the combination of intervention characteristics associated with effective de-implementation are needed. In addition, future work should be guided by de-implementation theory, focus on OTC NSAIDs and incorporate patient-focused strategies and outcomes, including the evaluation of unintended consequences of the intervention. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Rockwell, M. S., Oyese, E. G., Singh, E., Vinson, M., Yim, I., Turner, J. K., Epling, J. W. Tags: Open access, Health services research Source Type: research

De-imFAR phase II project: a study protocol for a cluster randomised implementation trial to evaluate the effectiveness of de-implementation strategies to reduce low-value statin prescribing in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
This study aims to reduce potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) of statins and foster healthy lifestyle promotion in cardiovascular disease (CVD) primary prevention in low-risk patients. To this end, we will compare the effectiveness and feasibility of several de-implementation strategies developed following the structured design process of the Behaviour Change Wheel targeting key determinants of the clinical decision-making process in CVD prevention. Methods and analysis A cluster randomised implementation trial, with an additional control group, will be launched, involving family physicians (FPs) from 13 Integrate...
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Sanchez, A., Pijoan, J. I., Sainz de Rozas, R., Lekue, I., San Vicente, R., Quindimil, J. A., Rotaeche, R., Etxeberria, A., Mozo, C., Martinez-Cengotitabengoa, M., Monge, M., Gomez-Ramirez, C., Samper, R., Ogueta Lana, M., Celorrio, S., Merino-Inda, N., L Tags: Open access, Evidence based practice Source Type: research

Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and associated factors affecting emergency medical services professionals in Jordan: a cross-sectional study
Conclusions There is a high prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints among EMS personnel. Multiple variables may be incorporated into a national prevention campaign and professional development programme to educate EMS personnel on avoiding WMSDs. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Nazzal, M. S., Oteir, A. O., Alrawashdeh, A., Alwidyan, M. T., Obiedat, Q., Almhdawi, K. A., Ismael, N. T., Williams, B. Tags: Open access, Occupational and environmental medicine Source Type: research

Effect of metacognitive therapy on depression in patients with chronic disease: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
This article is a literature review that does not include patients’ identifiable information. Therefore, ethical approval is not required in this protocol. The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be published in a peer-reviewed journal as well as presentations at relevant conferences. PROSPERO registration number CRD42023411105. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Zhang, Z., Wang, P., Gu, J., Zhang, Q., Sun, C., Wang, P. Tags: Open access, Mental health Source Type: research

Aspirin versus metformin in pregnancies at high risk of preterm pre-eclampsia in China (AVERT): protocol for a multicentre, double-blind, 3-arm randomised controlled trial
This study will compare the incidence of preterm-PE with delivery at <37 weeks’ gestation, as the primary outcome, of three different interventional groups: (1) aspirin 75 mg daily, (2) aspirin 150 mg daily and (3) aspirin 75 mg with metformin 1.5 g daily. 957 participants per treatment group are required to detect a significant difference of 59% in the reduction of the incidence of preterm-PE with 80% power and type I error of 5%. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes will be collected and analysed. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the Joint Chinese University of Hong Kong&ndas...
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Liu, J., Shen, L., Nguyen-Hoang, L., Zhou, Q., Wang, C. C., Lu, X., Sahota, D., Chong, K. C., Ying, H., Gu, W., Zhou, R., Yang, H., Jiang, Y., Chen, D., Li, X., Poon, L. Tags: Open access, Obstetrics & Gynaecology Obstetrics and gynaecology Source Type: research

Colchicine for the treatment of patients with COVID-19: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Conclusions The results of this meta-analysis do not support the use of colchicine as a treatment for reducing the risk of mortality or improving other relevant clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. However, RCTs investigating early treatment with colchicine (within 5 days of symptom onset or in patients with early-stage disease) are needed to fully elucidate the potential benefits of colchicine in this patient population. PROSPERO registration number CRD42022369850. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Cheema, H. A., Jafar, U., Shahid, A., Masood, W., Usman, M., Hermis, A. H., Naseem, M. A., Sahra, S., Sah, R., Lee, K. Y. Tags: Open access, Infectious diseases, COVID-19 Source Type: research

Defining predictors of responsiveness to advanced therapies in Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis: protocol for the IBD-RESPONSE and nested CD-metaRESPONSE prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study in precision medicine
Introduction Characterised by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) symptoms including diarrhoea, abdominal pain and fatigue can significantly impact patient’s quality of life. Therapeutic developments in the last 20 years have revolutionised treatment. However, clinical trials and real-world data show primary non-response rates up to 40%. A significant challenge is an inability to predict which treatment will benefit individual patients. Current understanding of IBD pathogenesis implicates complex interactions between host genetics and the gut microbiome. Most cohorts s...
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Wyatt, N. J., Watson, H., Anderson, C. A., Kennedy, N. A., Raine, T., Ahmad, T., Allerton, D., Bardgett, M., Clark, E., Clewes, D., Cotobal Martin, C., Doona, M., Doyle, J. A., Frith, K., Hancock, H. C., Hart, A. L., Hildreth, V., Irving, P. M., Iqbal, S. Tags: Open access, Gastroenterology and hepatology Source Type: research

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder stimulant trial in children: an N-of-1 pilot trial to compare stimulant to placebo (FASST): protocol
Introduction Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy. FASD is associated with neurodevelopmental deviations, and 50%–94% of children with FASD meet the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-fifth edition diagnostic criteria for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There is a paucity of evidence around medication efficacy for ADHD symptoms in children with FASD. This series of N-of-1 trials aims to provide pilot data on the feasibility of conducting N-of-1 trials in children with FASD and ADHD. Methods and analysis...
Source: BMJ Open - April 17, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Crichton, A., Harris, K., McGree, J. M., Nikles, J., Anderson, P. J., Williams, K. Tags: Open access, Paediatrics Source Type: research

Trends and determinants of clinical staff retention in the English NHS: a double retrospective cohort study
Conclusions Demographic and contractual factors appear to be stronger predictors of hospital staff retention than organisational characteristics. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 16, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Moscelli, G., Nicodemo, C., Sayli, M., Mello, M. Tags: Open access, Press releases, Health policy Source Type: research

Identifying carers in general practice (STATUS QUO): a multicentre, cross-sectional study in England
Conclusions Many more participants self-identified as a carer than were recorded on participating GP lists. Improvements in the recording of the population’s caring status need to be actioned, to ensure that supportive implementation strategies for carers are effectively received. Using automated check-in facilities for research continues to provide high participation rates. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 16, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Lawton, S., Mallen, C., Hussain, Z., Bajpai, R., Muller, S., Holmstrom, C., Jinks, C., Helliwell, T. Tags: Open access, Public health Source Type: research

Skin closUre in carPal tunnEl Release (SUPER): protocol for a blinded randomised controlled trial comparing absorbable and non-absorbable sutures in carpal tunnel release
Introduction Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common disorder affecting a substantial portion of the general population. Surgical intervention is often deemed necessary, with the median nerve release being one of the most frequent operations. Optimising all the aspects of this procedure can enhance patient satisfaction with the treatment. Methods and analysis We aim to determine the differences in the aesthetic outcome of the scar as well as the pain experienced during the healing process between the use of absorbable and non-absorbable sutures. The primary outcome measure will be the patients’ subjective satisfaction wi...
Source: BMJ Open - April 16, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Savolainen, A., Nietosvaara, Y., Sirola, J., Hytönen, M., Reito, A., Heikkinen, N., Räisänen, M. P. Tags: Open access, Surgery Source Type: research

Comparative analysis of antibodies to four major periodontal bacteria in respiratory diseases: a cohort study
Conclusion A low level of TD was associated with bronchitis/emphysema compared with the rest of the cohort. In the total study sample, low levels of antibodies to both TF and TD were associated with daily smoking. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 16, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Lund Haheim, A. L., Olsen, I., Thelle, D. S., Ronningen, K. S. Tags: Open access, Epidemiology Source Type: research

Multicentre double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of the meningococcal B vaccine, 4CMenB (Bexsero), against Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection in men who have sex with men: the GoGoVax study protocol
This study will evaluate the efficacy of 4CMenB against N. gonorrhoeae infection in men (cis and trans), transwomen and non-binary people who have sex with men (hereafter referred to as GBM+). Methods and analysis This is a double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial in GBM+, either HIV-negative on pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV or living with HIV (CD4 count >350 cells/mm3), who have had a diagnosis of gonorrhoea or infectious syphilis in the last 18 months (a key characteristic associated with a high risk of N. gonorrhoeae infection). Participants are randomised 1:1 to receive two doses of 4CMenB or placeb...
Source: BMJ Open - April 16, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Seib, K. L., Donovan, B., Thng, C., Lewis, D. A., McNulty, A., Fairley, C. K., Yeung, B., Jin, F., Fraser, D., Bavinton, B. R., Law, M., Chen, M. Y., Chow, E. P. F., Whiley, D. M., Mackie, B., Jennings, M. P., Jennison, A. V., Lahra, M. M., Grulich, A. E. Tags: Open access, Infectious diseases Source Type: research

Missed nursing care and its associated factors in public hospitals of Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Conclusion A significant proportion of nurses missed essential nursing care activities. Efforts should be made to enhance training, improve teamwork among nurses, provide stability and adjust work shifts to mitigate this issue. (Source: BMJ Open)
Source: BMJ Open - April 16, 2024 Category: General Medicine Authors: Abere, Y., Biresaw, H., Misganaw, M., Netsere, B., Adal, O. Tags: Open access, Evidence based practice Source Type: research