Large, long term research studies present recruitment challenges that can be met with collaborative approaches to identify and enroll participants. The Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study (MrOS), a multi-center observational study designed to determine risk factors for osteoporosis, fractures and prostate cancer in older men, recruited 5995 participants over a 25-month period. Enrolling a cohort that represented the race and age distribution of each community, and developing interest in an older male cohort about a condition commonly thought of as a "women's disease," were major recruitment challenges. During the start-up phase, recruitment challenges and strategies were analyzed and collective approaches were developed to address ways to motivate the target population. Key methods included mailings using community and provider contact lists; regional and senior newspaper advertisements; and presentations targeted to seniors. Sites used a centrally developed recruitment brochure. Response to mass mailings at some sites surpassed 10-15% and appointment show rates averaged above 85%. The final number enrolled in MrOS was 5% more than the original recruitment goal of 5700. Minority recruitment was enhanced through the use of the Health Care Financing Administration and other databases that allowed for targeted recruitment. Overall, minority enrollment was approximately 10.56% of the cohort (244 African American, 191 Asian). Men age>80 were enthusiastic and represent about 18% of enrollees. Through a coordinated approach of developing and refining recruitment strategies and materials, sites were able to adapt their original strategies and complete recruitment ahead of schedule.
Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) is a significant global health burden, with variable treatment outcomes and an unclear underlying molecular mechanism. Effective prediction of treatment responses remains a challenge. In this study, we aimed to develop gene signature-based machine learning models using transcriptomic data from peripheral immune cells to predict treatment outcomes in patients with LBP.
Background: The design of smart, photoactivated nanomaterials for targeted drug delivery systems (DDS) has garnered significant research interest due in part to the ability of light to precisely control drug release in specific cells or tissues with high spatial and temporal resolution. The development of effective light-triggered DDS involves mechanisms including photocleavage, photoisomerization, photopolymerization, photosensitization, photothermal phenomena, and photorearrangement, which permit response to ultraviolet (UV), visible (Vis), and/or Near Infrared (NIR) light. This review explores recent advancements in light-responsive small molecules, polymers, and nanocarriers, detailing their underlying mechanisms and utility for drug delivery and/or imaging.
Objective: To identify and address areas for improvement within the current surgical training model in Australia and New Zealand relating to family planning and inflexible training as top barriers to gender equity in surgery.
Methods: A cross-sectional study of accredited surgical trainees and early career surgeons in Australia and New Zealand was conducted between September and October 2023. Participants were recruited by the RACS Fax Mentis, the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ) e-newsletter, and medical social media networks.
Introduction: Nurses' well-being at work (WAW) is important for overall health care outcomes. Nurses often navigate complex roles, contending with time constraints, ethical challenges and societal undervaluation, underscoring the necessity of addressing their WAW.
Methods: The aim of this systematic review was to analyse the interventions that potentially improve nurses' WAW in care settings for older people.
Department of Psychiatry, Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, 1 Bowdoin Square, Suite 106, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
Chronic orofacial pain (COFP; i.e., musculoskeletal, neurovascular, or neuropathic pain in the face, mouth, or jaw that lasts for at least 3 months) is prevalent and debilitating.
