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Fecal sample collection methods and time of day impact microbiome composition and short chain fatty acid concentrations

Associations between the human gut microbiome and health outcomes continues to be of great interest, although fecal sample collection methods which impact microbiome studies are sometimes neglected. Here, we expand on previous work in sample optimization, to promote high quality microbiome data. To compare fecal sample collection methods, amplicons from the bacterial 16S rRNA gene (V4) and fungal (ITS2) region, as well as short chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations were determined in fecal material over three timepoints.

High-Fiber Diet during Pregnancy Characterized by More Fruit and Vegetable ConsumptionHigh-Fiber Diet during Pregnancy Characterized by More Fruit and Vegetable Consumption

Higher dietary fiber intakes during pregnancy may have the potential health benefits of increasing gut microbiome diversity, lowering the risk of glucose intolerance and pre-eclampsia, achieving appropriate gestational weight gain, and preventing constipation. In this observational cohort study, we have assessed the dietary fiber intakes of 804 women in late pregnancy, using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SQ-FFQ). Overall, the median (interquartile range) dietary fiber intake was 24.1 (19.0-29.7) grams per day (g/day). Only 237/804 (29.5%) women met the recommended Adequate Intake (AI) of dietary fiber during pregnancy of 28 g/day.

Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effect of folic acid supplementation beyond the first trimester on maternal plasma unmetabolised folic acid in late gestation

Taking folic acid containing supplements prior to and during early pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects. Neural tube defects occur prior to 28 days postconception, after which, there is no proven benefit of continuing to take folic acid. However, many women continue to take folic acid containing supplements throughout the pregnancy.

SCN1A Variants in vaccine-related febrile seizures: A prospective study

Pathogenic SCN1A variants may be identified in infants with vaccine-proximate febrile seizures

Shining the Light on Sunshine: A systematic review of the influence of sun exposure on type 2 diabetes mellitus-related outcomes

This review highlights significant gaps in research pertaining to sun exposure and type 2 diabetes mellitus related outcomes

Th2-polarisation of cellular immune memory to neonatal pertussis vaccination

Current infant vaccination against pertussis in North America and Australia requires three doses of vaccines including diphtheria, tetanus and acellular...

Let’s talk about Leadership in Paediatric Anaesthesia!

Leadership in paediatric anaesthesia is undergoing rapid transformation as clinical complexity, workforce expectations, and organizational structures evolve. This review synthesizes recent developments and highlights the competencies required for effective leadership in this high-stakes specialty.

The future of paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea assessment: Integrating artificial intelligence, biomarkers, and more

Assessing obstructive sleep apnoea in children involves various methodologies, including sleep studies, nocturnal oximetry, and clinical evaluations. Previous literature has extensively discussed these traditional methods. 

SNAP-Chat: the Staphylococcus aureus Network Adaptive Platform Trial (SNAP) - Chat

Dr Anita Asha Campbell Bowen MBBS, DCH, PG DipPID, FRACP, PhD BA MBBS DCH FRACP PhD GAICD FAHMS OAM Infectious Diseases Physician; Raine Clinician

ATOMIC Ears: A Phase IIB randomised controlled trial to assess safety, tolerability and acceptability of a 5-day Dornase alfa treatment as an adjunct therapy to ventilation tube insertion for otitis media in children

Chris Jennifer Lea-Ann Peter Ruth Brennan-Jones Kent Kirkham Richmond Thornton PhD RN PhD MBBS MRCP(UK) FRACP PhD Head, Ear and Hearing Health