Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) for the identification of mycobacteria from MBBacT ALERT 3D liquid cultures and Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) solid cultures.

Aims: Conventional methods for the identification of mycobacteria can be demanding and prolonged. Molecular methodologies, although rapid, are expensive and often exclusive to reference laboratories. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) presents a possible alternative method for the identification and differentiation of mycobacteria.

Do the clinical competencies of musculoskeletal outpatient physiotherapists improve after they have participated in a bespoke in-service education programme designed around individual and service continuing professional development needs?

Objective: To determine whether the clinical competencies of musculoskeletal outpatient physiotherapists improve if they participate in an annual in-service education programme designed around clinical practice needs.

Design: A within-subject, without-control, experimental, pre-test post-test study.

Setting: Clinical and educational facilities of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and locality-based outpatient facilities.