1,721,012 research outputs found
Is blockchain the breakthrough we are looking for to facilitate genomic data sharing? The European Union perspective
Full text linkThe recent progress of genomics research is providing unprecedented insight into human genetic variance, susceptibility to disease and risk stratification. Current trends predict that a massive amount of genomic data will be produced in the upcoming years which, when coupled with the fast-paced development of the field, will create new social, ethical, and legal challenges. In the complex legislative environment of the European Union, genomic data sharing policies will have to weigh the benefits of scientific discovery against the ethical risks posed by the act of sharing sensitive data. In this complex, interconnected environment, blockchain provides a unique and novel solution to accountability, traceability, and transparency issues regarding genomic data sharing. Implementing a distributed ledger technology-based database could empower both patients and citizens to responsibly use genomic data pertaining to them because it allows for a higher degree of control over the recipients of their data and their uses. The blockchain technology will engage both data owners and policymakers to address the multiple issues of genomic data sharing and allow us to redefine the way we look at genomics
The impact of leadership interventions on neonatal care: a systematic review of current literature
No full textEffective leadership is essential in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where complex, high-stakes environments require coordinated multidisciplinary teamwork. Strong leadership improves clinical outcomes, team performance, and staff well-being. This systematic review assesses various leadership models and interventions in NICUs to identify best practices and areas for future research. A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, covering studies published from 2010 to October 2024. Articles were screened using the PRISMA guidelines, and inclusion criteria focused on primary studies in NICU settings evaluating leadership interventions. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Nine studies from diverse countries and research designs were included. Leadership interventions varied from simulation-based training programs to co-leadership models. High-fidelity simulation boot camps significantly improved self-perceived skills, teamwork, and leadership confidence among trainees. While most studies reported positive impacts on team performance and patient safety, one large-scale quality improvement program showed no significant improvement in clinical outcomes for very-low-birth-weight infants. Conclusion: The findings emphasize that leadership interventions, including structured training and co-leadership, enhance team dynamics and clinical outcomes in NICUs. However, variability in study designs and reliance on self-reported data highlight the need for standardized evaluation methods. Future research should focus on long-term impacts, cross-context comparisons, and refining leadership frameworks to address the unique challenges of NICU settings. Promoting effective leadership not only improves patient care but also fosters a resilient and collaborative work environment. (Table presented.
Survey of Professionals of the European Public Health Association (EUPHA) towards Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing
Full text linkBACKGROUND: The increasing availability of Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Tests (DTC-GTs) has great implications for public health (PH) and requires literate healthcare professionals to address the challenges they pose. We designed and conducted a survey to assess the state of knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of PH professionals members of the European Public Health Association (EUPHA) towards DTC-GTs. METHODS: EUPHA members were invited to participate and fill in the survey. We performed multivariable logistic regression to evaluate associations between selected covariates and knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of healthcare professionals towards DTC-GT. RESULTS: Three hundred and two professionals completed the survey, 66.9% of whom were not involved in genetics or genomics within their professional activities. Although 74.5% of respondents were aware that DTC-GTs could be purchased on the web, most of them reported a low level of awareness towards DTC-GTs applications and regulatory aspects. The majority did not approve the provision of DTC-GTs without consultation of a healthcare professional (91.4%), were doubtful about the test utility and validity (61%) and did not feel prepared to address citizens’ questions (65.6%). Predictors of knowledge on DTC-GT were the involvement in genetics/genomics and receiving training during the studies (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.043). Predictors of attitudes were medical degree and knowledge about DTC-GTs (P = 0.006 and P = 0.027). CONCLUSIONS: Our results revealed a high level of awareness of DTC-GT web purchasing and a moderate to low level of awareness towards their applications. Despite the overall positive attitudes, PH professionals reported a high need for strengthening regulatory aspects of DTC-GTs provision process
Personalized medicine in China: An overview of policies, programs, and actions in China
No full textBackground: Over the past decade, the ascent of personalized medicine (PM) has catalyzed pivotal transformations in healthcare systems on a global scale. Recognizing its crucial importance, the European Commission has prioritized PM within its research directives, allocating funding for international collaborative projects, such as the “Integrating China in the International Consortium for Personalized Medicine” (IC2PerMed) project, which aims to facilitate China's integration into the International Consortium for Personalized Medicine (ICPerMed). This research presents the delineation and examination of existing policies governing PM in China, describing the regulatory framework that encompasses PM within the country. Methods: PubMed, Baidu.com, Google Scholar, Google, and Microsoft Academic as well as official repositories of national and international institutions, were searched to find publications and information pertaining to policies, programs, and action plans concerning PM in China in English and Chinese language. This search encompassed both national and local perspectives and covered documents published until December 2023. Results: Sixteen policies, 18 programs, and 11 actions in China on both national and local base addressing PM approaches and themes were identified. The policies mainly focused on genetics and human genetic resources management, and big data and data security requirements. China's strategic plans and programs emphasized PM's integration into national health strategies, mostly through 13th 5-year plans and special plans. Finally, the action plans focused on specific applications of PM. The Health and Family Planning Commission and National Health Commission standardized molecular testing, physician approval, and clinical use of antitumor drugs. Discussion: In recent years, China has implemented a variety of policy measures to address healthcare challenges, focusing on personalized treatment for an aging population. Despite increased government spending, challenges persist, including rising out-of-pocket payments and regional disparities. China is heavily investing in PM, utilizing extensive health datasets and diagnostic technologies. China has prioritized technological innovation and large-scale data collection. While disparities exist between China and Europe, both aim to integrate PM insights into clinical practice for better healthcare outcomes
An evaluation of Italian medical students attitudes and knowledge regarding forensic medicine
No full textIntroduction: This study aims to assess students' knowledge of forensic medicine concepts and their opinions regarding the course taught during the degree course in Medicine and Surgery in an Italian university. Consequently, the study aims to assess the impact of the course on the students' knowledge and attitude in choosing a medical residency. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through an anonymous web-based survey of medical students at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore. Descriptive and univariate analysis were conducted. Results: 1166 students completed the survey. The forensic medicine course appears to be extremely important in providing training in the fundamental concepts of forensic medicine, especially professional liability, defensive medicine, and forensic pathology. Attending autopsies is important during the course, and their number should be more than ten. Additionally, univariate analysis demonstrates that students' awareness of forensic medicine topics, such as the function of the forensic physicians, professional liability, and defensive medicine, improves in the fifth or sixth year of the course. After the course, more students would choose to pursue a nonclinical and nonsurgical specialty, and forensic medicine specifically, for their residency. Conclusions: The forensic medicine course has the task of defining the duties and responsibilities of forensic physicians, providing indispensable tools for future medical practitioners, regardless of their future specialisation, and limiting the increasing use of defensive medicine. In conclusion, we recommend further multicenter studies to evaluate the role and direct effect of undergraduate forensic medicine courses on students and on the quality of practice
Integrating China in the International Consortium for Personalised Medicine: a position paper on innovation and digitalization in Personalized Medicine
No full textBackground: The advent of Personalized Medicine (PM) holds significant promise in revolutionizing healthcare by tailoring treatments to individual patients based on their data. However, its successful implementation requires the seamless integration of innovative technologies and presents formidable challenges in terms of sustainability. To tackle these challenges head-on, the International Consortium for Personalized Medicine (ICPerMed) was established, and the IC2PerMed project, as part of this consortium, seeks to foster collaboration between the European Union (EU) and China in the field of Personalized Medicine. Based on the results collected by the project, the objective of this study is to discern the key priorities for the implementation of Personalised Medicine concerning Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Big Data and digital solutions, with a particular emphasis on data management and protection. Methods: A Delphi survey was conducted to gather expert’s consensus on the main priorities for actions on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Big Data and digital solutions in the field of Personalized Medicine. Results: The survey identified seven priorities in the area of Big Data and digital solutions, including data interoperability, standards, security measures, and international partnerships. Additionally, twelve priorities were identified for the innovation-to-market process, emphasizing cost-effectiveness, need assessment, and value definition in resource allocation. Conclusions: The effective implementation of new technologies in Personalized Medicine research and practice is essential for the advancement of healthcare systems in both the European and Chinese contexts. The identified priorities play a pivotal role in promoting the sustainability of health systems and driving innovation in the implementation of Personalized Medicine. Addressing challenges related to data interoperability, standards, security, international collaboration, cost-effectiveness, and value assessment is of utmost importance in order to propel the progress of Personalized Medicine in healthcare systems
The Development and Validation of a Questionnaire to Investigate the Association Between Maternal Food Insecurity and Fetal Structural Anomalies: Delphi Procedure and Pilot Study
Full text linkIntroduction: Food insecurity represents a public health issue that has been associated with poor birth outcomes. We describe the methodological steps followed to structure and validate a questionnaire, which has the potential to contribute to the planning and conduction of future studies investigating the possible association between maternal food insecurity and fetal structural anomalies. Methods: We first conducted a literature review to structure and validate the questionnaire. Subsequently, we drafted the questionnaire based on the results of this review, further refined through two focus groups. Afterward, the questionnaire was submitted using the Delphi Method to a panel of experts for validation. We conducted a pilot study prior to recruiting the final sample. Results: The questionnaire consisted of sections covering information about socio-demographic characteristics, women’s health and lifestyle, pregnancy, and food security status. After the first Delphi round, the Content Validity Index (CVI) for each section ranged 0.81–0.85, while after the second round all items had a CVI of 1. The final version of the questionnaire, consisting of 87 items, was pilot tested among 20 participants. Cronbach’s Alpha for each section resulted in values higher than 0.6. The response rate ranged from 78 to 100%. A situation of food security was present in 85% of the participants, while 5% were in a situation of mild food insecurity and 10% of moderate food insecurity. Conclusion: The questionnaire has appropriate measurement properties, and is an adequate instrument to evaluate the association between maternal food insecurity and fetal structural anomalies
A new digital model for the Italian Integrated Home Care: strengths, barriers, and future implications
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Three-year COVID-19 and flu vaccinations among medical residents in a tertiary hospital in Italy: The threat of acceptance decline in seasonal campaigns
No full text: The COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Italy started in December 2020, and, due to the Omicron variant's emergence, a second booster dose was recommended for high-risk individuals and healthcare workers from July 2022. The aim of the study was to evaluate the vaccination coverages for the COVID-19 second booster dose and to identify predictors of its acceptance within the population of medical residents (MRs) of the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS (FPG) University Hospital. The study was conducted at FPG from October 4th to December 21st, 2022, and COVID-19 second booster dose and influenza vaccines were administered. The study analyzed collected data and conducted multivariate logistic regressions to explore potential predictors of vaccination adherence. The analyses performed were compared with the sample enrolled in FPG residency programs at the start of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. 1968 MRs were involved in the 2022-2023 vaccination campaign (mean age 28.97, SD 3.44), and the second booster dose of COVID-19 vaccination coverage was low (18.80%). Almost all participants opted for co-administration of COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, leading to a similar rate of influenza vaccination coverage (16.26%). Being a frontline resident, meaning a direct involvement in managing COVID-19 patients and vaccination campaigns, was the main predictor of vaccination adherence (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.25-2.17). The dropping in influenza vaccination coverage in 2022-2023 and the low adherence to COVID-19 second booster dose among young physicians is concerning, calling for tailored vaccination campaigns and interventions
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