Search Results (646)

For more than 60 years, newborn (or neonatal) screening has flourished through global collaboration, demonstrating that collective action is key to success. This unity proved to be especially vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, when, despite severe disruptions, NBS services were largely preserved, reflecting the high value placed on early detection and care for vulnerable newborns. Today, the International Society for Neonatal Screening (ISNS) recognises that NBS programmes face increasing challenges due to global instability. While direct assistance is not always possible, ISNS emphasises the strength of the international NBS community—scientists, clinicians, patient groups, and industry partners—who are committed to mutual support and knowledge-sharing. Building on the proud legacy inspired by pioneers like Bob Guthrie, this community is enriched by diverse voices and is unified by a shared vision: to ensure that all children with rare disorders have access to life-saving screening and care. Safeguarding and advancing this foundation is a responsibility owed to future generations. Full article

Background: Leishmaniasis, a vector-borne disease caused by the parasite Leishmania, is a public health concern in Europe. Although Spain is an endemic country, it lacks a national surveillance network. To address this, the creation of a research and surveillance network is proposed, which would integrate data from various fields and enhance control and public health strategies. Objectives: The first objective is to gather epidemiological data on vectors, reservoirs, and transmission rates in Spain, with a particular focus on the role of dogs and wildlife as primary reservoirs. The plan includes establishing forums, databases, and specialised training programmes. The second objective is to improve case surveillance and reporting by establishing a comprehensive national registry. Implementing molecular diagnostics and bioinformatics tools will aid analysis of retrospective data and tracking of disease evolution. The third objective is to develop a standardised method for the molecular characterisation of Leishmania, using techniques such as PCR and genomic sequencing to detect virulence and resistance patterns. Key actions include collecting isolates, sharing analytical tools and providing genomic training. The fourth objective is to identify new therapeutic targets in response to toxicity and resistance to current treatments by studying specific enzymes (FeSOD, HDAC), metabolic pathways, and natural products. Ultimately, establishing the Leishmaniasis Surveillance Network will support a “One Health” approach and promote interdisciplinary collaboration towards a national control plan. Methods: We created the Working Group on Leishmaniasis funded by the Spanish Society of Tropical Medicine and International Health as a leishmaniasis forum for meetings and discussions on weaknesses and gaps we find in the knowledge and management of the infection based on the background of each academic and healthcare research group. Expected Impact: This study will promote the articulation of a Leishmaniasis Surveillance Network aiming to bring together the main stakeholders in the research and management of leishmaniasis in Spain. Full article

The increasing urgency of global sustainability challenges has elevated the role of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as benchmarks for both academic research and policy development. Within the European Union, measuring how national research systems contribute to SDG-related knowledge is critical for guiding evidence-based policymaking and evaluating progress toward the 2030 Agenda. Since the adoption of the UN 2030 Agenda, research related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has expanded significantly, reflecting their central role in guiding both global and European science policy. Despite this growing attention, systematic comparative evidence on how EU27 countries contribute to SDG-related knowledge production remains limited. This study provides a bibliometric analysis of research related to the SDGs across EU27 countries between 2019 and 2023. Drawing on data from Elsevier’s Scopus and SciVal platforms, we examine publication volume, relative share (RS), citation impact (FWCI), growth dynamics (CAGR), and thematic distributions. The dataset includes all document types associated with SDG1–SDG16. Germany, Italy, and France lead in absolute publication output, while smaller member states such as Cyprus, Malta, and Luxembourg display disproportionately high RS values. Health-related research (SDG3) dominates, followed by SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), whereas socially oriented goals (SDG2 and SDG5) remain underrepresented. Hierarchical cluster analysis, validated through silhouette and agglomeration tests, identifies three groups of countries: (1) high-output, high-impact Northern and Western leaders; (2) diversified performers with balanced portfolios; and (3) emerging contributors from Eastern and Southern Europe. Explanatory analyses link bibliometric outcomes to contextual variables, showing strong correlations with Horizon Europe funding per capita and international collaboration, and moderate associations with GDP per capita and GERD. Institutional-level findings highlight the prominence of leading universities and research institutes, particularly in health sciences. The study introduces a robust cluster-based typology and a multidimensional framework that connects bibliometric performance with economic capacity, research investment, EU funding participation, and collaboration intensity. Policy recommendations are proposed to strengthen thematic balance, improve equitable participation in EU research programs, and foster international cooperation across the European Research Area. Full article

Nature-Based Solutions (NBSs) are increasingly financed in urban, regional, and national contexts due to their proven capacity to reduce climate risks and deliver multiple co-benefits. Several challenges affect the successful implementation and long-term maintenance of NBSs, especially in climate-sensitive and fragile urban territories (e.g., the Mediterranean basin), characterized by intense urbanization, environmental vulnerability, socio-economic disparities, and fragmented governance. Key barriers include difficulties in economically evaluating NBS benefits, uncertainty about their effectiveness under changing climate conditions, and implementing multi-functional projects with an interdisciplinary perspective. To address these challenges, a participatory process was conducted involving three thematic working tables focused on the following: (1) economic evaluation, (2) co-design for climate resilience, and (3) multi-functionality and disciplinary integration. All groups applied a shared SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) methodology structured in four phases: (i) individual reflection and collective brainstorming; (ii) collaborative SWOT matrix development; (iii) roadmaps formulation; and (iv) narrative synthesis and submission. Grounded in their knowledge and practical experiences, stakeholders identified operational barriers and strategic advantages to identify research gaps and designing adaptive, inclusive, and context-sensitive NBS roadmaps. Although the stakeholders were primarily based in Northern Italy, they also brought national and international experience, making the findings relevant and transferable to other urban areas in the Mediterranean and Europe, facing similar socio-environmental challenges and governance issues. Thus, the study supports more effective planning and governance in comparable contexts, emphasizing integrated and flexible approaches to address urban fragility and optimize projects governance and management. Full article

Background: Food-allergic reactions in restaurants often result from miscommunication between customers with allergies and staff, or from staff members’ insufficient knowledge of food allergies. This study examined the behaviors, attitudes, and risk perceptions of food-allergic consumers when dining out or ordering from foodservice establishments (FSEs) compared to consumers without food allergies. Methods: A representative pan-Canadian survey was conducted amongst three groups: one of individuals without food allergies (n = 500) and two of food-allergic individuals (allergic-convenience sample [n = 500] and allergic-general population [n = 500]). The convenience sample comprised members of Food Allergy Canada, a national patient advocacy organization. Some participants with food allergies had experienced reactions linked to an FSE (43% convenience, 27% general). Weighted responses from food-allergic groups were compared to those of non-allergic ones using chi-square (p < 0.05). Statistical comparison between allergic groups was not attempted due to inherent differences in their allergic condition. Results: In several questions, responses from the non-allergic group differed significantly from those of the allergic-convenience sample, but not from those of the allergic-general population. Food-allergic-convenience respondents were more likely to avoid ordering food or dining out than non-allergic ones, with the highest avoidance (66%) noted for third-party platforms. Cost was the main barrier for non-allergic and allergic-general populations, whereas the allergic-convenience sample prioritized allergy-related concerns. Although at a lower rate than for participants with food allergies, food allergies influenced restaurant selection for 44% of participants without food allergies when dining with individuals outside their household. Most allergic respondents perceived that FSEs underestimate the seriousness of food allergies (82% convenience, 71% general), yet they felt safe while dining out (60% convenience, 85% general), pointing at loyalty to specific FSEs as a risk mitigation strategy. Conclusions: This study highlights a potentially higher burden of disease (psychological and social strain, reduced quality of life) among a subgroup of the food-allergic population (convenience sample), as reflected in their behaviors, attitudes, and risk perceptions towards meals prepared in FSEs. Nevertheless, both allergic groups expressed shared concerns and needs related to safety (e.g., ingredient disclosure for all menu items, prevention of allergen cross-contact, ability of an FSE to offer a safe meal, establishing clear communication processes for allergy-related information), which FSEs and regulators should consider when designing risk management strategies. Full article

This study examines the transformative role of educational technologies in higher education, with a focus on their impact on student engagement and collaboration in online and hybrid learning environments. It draws on data from 11 educators at an Australian university across Education, Health Sciences, and Humanities disciplines. Utilising the online tool Padlet, these educators facilitated interactive activities that enhanced teaching and learning. This article analyses Padlet’s unique features and how they were employed to optimise student engagement and learning outcomes. Semi-structured interviews reveal how Padlet supported multimedia presentations, group work, and discussions. The findings underscore the versatility of Padlet in promoting critical thinking and knowledge sharing, ultimately enhancing the student experience in both online and hybrid learning settings. This study encourages educators to adopt innovative strategies that incorporate Padlet and similar technologies to enhance their teaching practices. Full article

Background: With the growing population requiring palliative care (PC), it is essential to enhance and expand the availability of this care in Portugal. Throughout both pre-graduate and post-graduate training for doctors, there are limited learning opportunities in this area, necessitating further training to improve the knowledge and skills needed to support patients at the end of their lives. Studies conducted on doctors and medical students have demonstrated a clear need for improved training. Additionally, others have noted significant benefits for residents who underwent post-graduate training in this field while caring for patients nearing the end of life. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a basic training program on improving palliative care knowledge among medical doctors. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, carried out by sharing a questionnaire with the participants enrolled in the “Intensive Palliative Medicine Course” organized by a group of doctors in November 2021. The questionnaire was completed by participants at three moments of training (before, immediately after the course, and 6 months after the course), and it contained questions to assess the theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities obtained. Results: In total, 93 out of 204 (45.58%) doctors responded before training, 80 (39.21%) immediately after training, and 36 (17.64%) six months after training. After training, an improvement in knowledge was observed (p = 0.014), which did not appear to persist six months after the course (p = 0.574). However, six months after training, an increase in doctors’ confidence in referring patients to Palliative Care Teams or Units (p = 0.009) and medicating patients who may be in the last months of their lives (p = 0.005) was observed. Conclusions: The results regarding theoretical medical knowledge did not seem to stabilize over time, so it may be necessary to create more specific training opportunities for the medical profession. An increase in doctors’ self-confidence in referring and medicating patients with palliative care needs was observed, which may be associated with better medical care provided. It is necessary to carry out more studies to evaluate the impact of combined theoretical and practical training on the knowledge and confidence of doctors in PC. Full article

In Italy, several changes to academic and professional standards and rules in kinesiology and sport have recently occurred. On the university side, no data collection has started regarding these changes and effects on specific scholars. The aim of this study was to evaluate the opinions of Italian university scholars in Exercise and Sport Sciences regarding recent disciplinary reclassifications, the emergence of the kinesiologist as a formal profession, and related curricular updates. Specifically, this study aimed to measure scholars’ views on the usefulness of unification, hybridization with other fields of knowledge, interdisciplinarity with pedagogy, the distinctiveness of undergraduate education in light of the new kinesiologist profile, and the inclusion of Technical and Laboratory Activities (TLA) credited through the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). These aspects were explored through an eight-question survey offering three multiple-choice answers. An exploratory survey was distributed to a defined population of 261 Italian scholars (48 full professors, 137 associate professors, and 76 researchers). A total of 83 responses were collected: 14 full professors, 45 associate professors, and 24 researchers (response rate: 31.8%). Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses (Chi-Square tests, Cramér’s V, and Pearson/Spearman correlations) were conducted. Results indicated that 72.3% perceived overlap between pedagogical and medical disciplinary groups, and 85.5% considered practical/laboratory activities essential to the kinesiologist’s role. Significant differences in keyword-sharing perceptions across academic ranks emerged (p = 0.012; V = 0.3), and a near-significant trend was found regarding the importance of discipline-aligned research (p = 0.058; V = 0.3). Full agreement was found on the use of updated scientific evidence in lectures (100%), and 81.9% supported standardized education for the kinesiologist profession (Q6). Positive correlations were observed between support for keyword sharing and belief in its usefulness for promoting interdisciplinarity among full professors (r = 0.58, p = 0.02), associate professors (r = 0.68, p < 0.01), and researchers (r = 0.83, p < 0.01). Conversely, negative correlations emerged between the importance placed on practical activities and support for interdisciplinarity among associate professors and researchers, with values ranging from r = −0.31 to −0.46. The results are significant and tended toward autonomy from pedagogy, training aligned with the bachelor’s and master’s degree kinesiologist, and interdisciplinarity inherent in typical Exercise and Sport Sciences (ESS) keywords. This study should be replicated to increase the sample and to expand the ad hoc questionnaire to other issues. These findings highlight the need for greater alignment between academic training, disciplinary definitions, and professional practice through shared epistemological frameworks and updated descriptors that reflect scientific and labor market developments. Full article

Before colonization, Indigenous child protection looked like an interdependent community. Indigenous knowledges and relational actions kept all within its fold safe and well. Colonial dispossession of land, degradation of subsistence rights, boarding schools, ongoing child removal, capitalism, and systems of oppression attempted to disconnect Indigenous peoples from their language, lands, ceremonial practices, stories, dances, songs, family, community, and themselves. However, Indigenous communities have held on, persevered, and have begun to turn the tide of intergenerational trauma through the revival of Indigenous wellness and self-determination. We believe local-based Indigenous relational knowledges can end colonial harm and promote wellbeing for all families and children. Our work builds off an Indigenous Connectedness Framework that recognizes the importance of the interrelated wellbeing of a person, family, community, ancestors/future generations, and the Earth. This framework was adapted based on community feedback to better fit the Nome Eskimo Community (NEC) and Bering Strait regional context. This paper shares results of community focus groups that led to the creation of a NEC Piaġiq (wellness) Framework, and shares intentions for pilot implementation of a wellness curriculum and pilot intervention. We will offer insights and lessons learned. We believe self-determined Indigenous wellbeing efforts can lead to improved outcomes for our sacred children and families for generations to come. Full article

STEM education is constantly seeking innovative methods to enhance student learning. Virtual Reality technology can represent a critical tool for effectively teaching complex engineering subjects. This study evaluates an original Virtual Reality software application, entitled Submarine Simulator, which is developed specifically to support competencies in hydrodynamics within an Underwater Engineering course at MINES Paris—PSL. Our application uniquely integrates a customized physics engine explicitly designed for realistic underwater simulation, significantly improving user comprehension through accurate real-time representation of hydrodynamic forces. The study involved a homogeneous group of 26 fourth-year engineering students, all specializing in engineering and sharing similar academic backgrounds in robotics, electronics, programming, and computer vision. This uniform cohort, primarily aged 22–28, enrolled in the same 3-month course, was intentionally chosen to minimize variations in skills, prior knowledge, and learning pace. Through a combination of quantitative assessments and Confirmatory Factor Analysis, we find that Virtual Reality affordances significantly predict user flow state (path coefficient: 0.811) which then predicts user engagement and satisfaction (path coefficient: 0.765). These findings show the substantial educational potential of tailored Virtual Reality experiences in STEM, particularly in engineering, and highlight directions for further methodological refinement. Full article

The aims of the current study included gathering cultural knowledge and stories regarding parenting young children within a Tribal community and learning community members’ perspectives on key components of a promising parenting prevention program. Qualitative data were drawn from a focus group including seven participants and semi-structured phone interviews with 21 additional participants, all of whom were parenting children in the community. Hybrid coding and applied thematic analysis revealed five themes: (1) Desire to Learn and Gain Parenting Skills; (2) Relationships and the Caregiver Role; (3) Culture and Caregiving, which included subthemes of Diversity Among Tribal Bands, Intergenerational Knowledge Sharing, and Reconnection and Revitalization; (4) Historical Trauma and Behavioral Health; and (5) Curriculum Terminology Considerations. The information gathered collectively informed the development of the culturally grounded stim’ aspuʔús (What’s in Your Heart?) parenting program. This addresses the great need for culturally grounded interventions to support trauma healing within Indigenous families. The development process and implications for program development by and for Indigenous communities is discussed. Full article

Background: Midwifery’s Intangible Heritage was officially recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization on 6 December 2023, highlighting that elements of midwifery knowledge and practice, shaped over generations, constitute cultural heritage worth safeguarding. While previous studies have investigated midwives’ perceptions of professional identity, none have done so within the explicit framework of MIH. Objective: this study explored how midwives and student midwives in Cyprus perceive the intangible heritage of their profession and how it relates to their shared professional identity. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted between April and July 2023. Three focus groups were held, involving 22 participants: 15 registered midwives and 7 student midwives. A semi-structured interview guide consisting of 10 questions was used, developed by the lead author (M.P.) based on the literature and improvisation and finalized with the research team (E.H., S.V., N.M.) after expert input. Thematic analysis was performed inductively to identify recurrent themes. Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) key elements of Midwifery’s Intangible Heritage and their transmission across generations; (2) a sense of shared professional identity; (3) perceived threats to the midwifery profession; and (4) midwives’ expectations for the future of the profession. Conclusions: The findings reflect the historical background of midwifery in Cyprus and its contrast with contemporary practice, particularly within the context of the overmedicalization of birth and societal perceptions of midwifery in the socio-cultural setting. Safeguarding Midwifery’s Intangible Heritage requires both empowering women to seek midwifery-led care and enabling midwives to practice autonomously within their full professional scope. In addition, policymakers and educational bodies must support the preservation of midwives’ core skills through targeted educational curricula, structured mentorship, and continuous professional development. Full article

Background/Objectives: Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs is an invaluable intervention in the ongoing efforts to contain the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in low-resource settings. This study evaluates the impact of the Telementoring, Education, and Advocacy Collaboration initiative for Health through Antimicrobial Stewardship (TEACH AMS), which uses the virtual Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) learning model to enhance AMS capacity in Kenya, Ghana, and Malawi. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used, which included attendance data collection, facility-level assessments, post-session and follow-up surveys, as well as focus group discussions. Results: Between September 2023 and February 2025, 77 virtual learning sessions were conducted, engaging 2445 unique participants from hospital-based AMS committees and health professionals across the three countries. Participants reported significant knowledge gain, and data showed facility improvements in two core AMS areas, including the implementation of multidisciplinary ward-based interventions/communications and enhanced monitoring of antibiotic resistance patterns. Along those lines, participants reported that the program assisted them in improving prescribing and culture-based treatments, and also evidence-informed antibiotic selection. The evidence of implementing ward-based interventions was further stressed in focus group discussions, as well as other strengthened practices like point-prevalence surveys, and development or revision of stewardship policies. Substantial improvements in microbiology services were also shared by participants, particularly in Malawi. Other practices mentioned were strengthened multidisciplinary communication, infection prevention efforts, and education of patients and the community. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that a virtual case-based learning educational intervention, providing structured and tailored AMS capacity building, can drive behavior change and strengthen healthcare systems in low resource settings. Future efforts should aim to scale up the engagements and sustain improvements to further strengthen AMS capacity. Full article

In this research report, we consider how to empower K-8 teachers as mathematics instructional leaders to initiate and sustain improvements within their schools, as a practical and sustainable model of enacting change in mathematics education more broadly by developing leadership from within. We share the theoretical framework and findings from a 5-year National Science Foundation project. We utilized a longitudinal mixed methods approach, collecting data on teachers’ knowledge, instructional practices, leadership practices, and self-perception of growth throughout the project, triangulated with focus group data from teachers’ school administrators and project leaders and logs of leadership activities. Findings indicate positive changes in teachers’ knowledge and practices and in their role as instructional leaders in their schools, districts, and the mathematics education community. We conclude by sharing factors that appeared to support teachers’ growth as instructional leaders and implications for practice and research. Full article

The rubber industry is facing major socio-economic and environmental constraints. Rubber-based agroforestry systems represent a more sustainable solution through the diversification of income and the provision of greater ecosystem services than monoculture plantations. Participative approaches are known for their ability to co-construct solutions with stakeholders and to promote a positive impact on smallholders. This study therefore implemented a participatory research process with stakeholders in the natural rubber sector for the purpose of improving inclusion, relevance and impact. Facilitation training sessions were first organised with academic actors to prepare participatory workshops. A working group of stakeholder representatives was set up and participated in these workshops to share a common representation of the value chain and to identify problems and solutions for the sector in Indonesia. By fostering collective intelligence and systems thinking, the process is aimed at enabling the development of adaptive technical solutions and building capacity across the sector for future government replanting programmes. The resulting adaptive technical packages were then detailed and objectified by the academic consortium and are part of a participatory plant breeding approach adapted to the natural rubber industry. On-station and on-farm experimental plans have been set up to facilitate the drafting of projects for setting up field trials based on these outcomes. Research played a dual role as both knowledge provider and facilitator, guiding a co-learning process rooted in social inclusion, equity and ecological resilience. The initiative highlighted the potential of rubber cultivation to contribute to climate change mitigation and food sovereignty, provided that it can adapt through sustainable practices like agroforestry. Continued political and financial support is essential to sustain and scale these innovations. Full article