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Pimalai D, Putnin T, Bamrungsap S. A highly sensitive electrochemical sensor based on poly(3-aminobenzoic acid)/graphene oxide-gold nanoparticles modified screen printed carbon electrode for paraquat detection. J Environ Sci (China) 2025; 148:139-150. [PMID: 39095153 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Herein, a modified screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE) based on a composite material, graphene oxide-gold nanoparticles (GO-AuNPs), and poly(3-aminobenzoic acid)(P3ABA) for the detection of paraquat (PQ) is introduced. The modified electrode was fabricated by drop casting of the GO-AuNPs, followed by electropolymerization of 3-aminobenzoic acid to achieve SPCE/GO-AuNPs/P3ABA. The morphology and microstructural characteristics of the modified electrodes were revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for each step of modification. The composite GO-AuNPs can provide high surface area and enhance electroconductivity of the electrode. In addition, the presence of negatively charged P3ABA notably improved PQ adsorption and electron transfer rate, which stimulate redox reaction on the modified electrode, thus improving the sensitivity of PQ analysis. The SPCE/GO-AuNPs/P3ABA offered a wide linear range of PQ determination (10-9-10-4 mol/L) and low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.45 × 10-9 mol/L or 0.116 µg/L, which is far below international safety regulations. The modified electrode showed minimum interference effect with percent recovery ranging from 96.5% to 116.1% after addition of other herbicides, pesticides, metal ions, and additives. The stability of the SPCE/GO-AuNPs/P3ABA was evaluated, and the results indicated negligible changes in the detection signal over 9 weeks. Moreover, this modified electrode was successfully implemented for PQ analysis in both natural and tapped water with high accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dechnarong Pimalai
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Thitirat Putnin
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Suwussa Bamrungsap
- National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand.
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2
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Alqarni SS, Alshehri SM, Alkhateeb MA, Alsudias LS. Assessing Saudi women's awareness about human papillomavirus (HPV) and their susceptibility to receive the vaccine. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2395086. [PMID: 39219415 PMCID: PMC11370954 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2395086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is a significant health concern for women worldwide, with human papillomavirus (HPV) being the primary cause. This study aimed to assess Saudi women's awareness and knowledge of HPV, determine their information sources, and evaluate their intention to receive the HPV vaccine. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 654 Saudi females aged 18 to 60 years from January to May 2023. The results revealed that 60.85% of the participants had heard about HPV, but only 8.25% had received the HPV vaccination. Despite the low vaccination rate, 71.11% of the respondents expressed willingness to receive the vaccine. Educational level was the significant predictor of the vaccine awareness and acceptance. The internet and social media were the most prevalent sources of information about HPV. The study highlights the need for additional education about HPV-related diseases and vaccination among Saudi women. Although there is a high level of HPV vaccine acceptance, the lack of knowledge suggests that targeted educational interventions are necessary to increase awareness and promote vaccination uptake. These findings can inform public health strategies to reduce the burden of cervical cancer in Saudi Arabia through improved HPV vaccination coverage and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sana S. Alqarni
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samiyah M. Alshehri
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariam A. Alkhateeb
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lama S. Alsudias
- Department of Information Technology, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Guraya SS, Guraya SY, Rashid-Doubell F, Fredericks S, Harkin DW, Bin Mat Nor MZ, Bahri Yusoff MS. Reclaiming the concept of professionalism in the digital context: a principle-based concept analysis. Ann Med 2024; 56:2398202. [PMID: 39263743 PMCID: PMC11395874 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2398202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been an alarming surge in the usage of social networking sites (SNSs) by healthcare professionals (HCPs) without adherence to the principles of professionalism. The widespread use of SNSs in medical practices has been coupled with reports of breaches of professional behaviors. Despite the benefits of SNSs, skepticism prevails about a clearly defined role for SNSs within medicine based upon the core principles of professionalism. Thus, there is a need to understand the manifestations of professionalism in the digital context, classically known as e-professionalism. This study systematically examines HCPs' perceptions of e-professionalism to advance a thorough understanding of e-professionalism. METHODS This concept analysis was performed using the principle-based approach of Penrod and Hupcey. In January 2023, we searched the databases of PubMed and ISI Web of Science for English-language articles specific to 'e-professionalism' in the medical field. The final selected research corpus of 63 articles was analyzed in this study. RESULTS A comprehensive analysis of the selected articles highlighted that e-professionalism is an epistemologically mature and distinct concept by a standard definition. However, inconsistencies in conceptual meanings were reported due to varied interpretations despite digital literacy. The pragmatic utility showed a lack of sound methodological and philosophical paradigms. Perhaps the rapid technological advancements and manifestations have hampered linguistic maturity. However, logically, e-professionalism is perceived as an extension of conventional professionalism but with a focus on a distinct framework with a set of attributes to be digitally relevant. CONCLUSION This study identifies a scarcity of research about the collective perspective of essential stakeholders, underpinning the need to further explore e-professionalism due to its emerging complex nature within the digital context. There is also a recognition that a framework is essential to guide future HCPs to yield a profound understanding and to provide remediation strategies in the rapidly advancing medical field in digital realm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaista Salman Guraya
- Institute of Learning Mohammad Bin Rashid, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, Unted Arab Emirates
| | | | | | - Salim Fredericks
- Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, Bahrain RCSI-MUB, Adliya, Bahrain
| | - Denis W Harkin
- Faculty of Medicine Health Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mohd Zarawi Bin Mat Nor
- Department of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Muhamad Saiful Bahri Yusoff
- Department of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
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4
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Hammad MA, Alyami MHF, Awed HS. The association between internet addiction and sleep quality among medical students in Saudi Arabia. Ann Med 2024; 56:2307502. [PMID: 38294763 PMCID: PMC10833109 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2307502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep is one of the fundamental human needs, essential for maintaining a high quality of life and mental and physical well-being across all age groups. Poor sleep quality often stems from negative lifestyle habits, including excessive internet usage. Therefore, it is important to determine the prevalence of internet gaming disorder among youth in Saudi Arabia and to examine the relationship between internet addiction levels and sleep quality. METHODS Data were collected from 338 medical students in the southern region of Saudi Arabia (mean age = 21.2 years, standard deviation = 3.29 years). Participants completed an online questionnaire comprising the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Data analysis employed iterations, chi-square tests, Pearson correlation coefficients, and ANOVA. RESULTS The results revealed that 21% of the participants exhibited severe internet addiction, while 31% displayed moderate internet addiction. Furthermore, the findings indicated a positive correlation between sleep quality and the severity of internet addiction. Sleep quality symptoms explained 75% of the variance in Internet addiction scores, even after controlling for demographic variables. Additional bivariate analyses revealed that individuals who spent six or more hours online daily were more likely to experience symptoms of poor sleep quality and exhibit a higher severity of internet addiction. Additionally, Men were more susceptible to developing internet addiction compared to women. Moreover, students with internet addiction tended to have lower academic achievements. CONCLUSION These findings, while exploratory, offer valuable insights into potential interventions, strategies, and programs for mitigating internet addiction and enhancing sleep quality among medical college students.
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Almegewly WH, Karavasileiadou S, Alotaibi TS. Exploring the experiences of female undergraduate nursing students in providing home healthcare to older adults. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024; 19:2291838. [PMID: 38055792 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2291838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In light of the growing ageing population in Saudi Arabia and Saudi nurses' hesitation to work with the older population, it is important to understand the experiences of nursing students on their clinical placement in home healthcare. METHODS This study is a descriptive qualitative study based on five focus groups of 3-5 students each. Data were collected from female senior baccalaureate nursing students at a female governmental university in Saudi Arabia, and during their placement in home healthcare. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Five main themes emerged : struggling with their own family; struggling with cultural and social beliefs; struggling during clinical training; struggling with domestic caregivers; and reflections for the future were considered important impressions in clinical experience. CONCLUSION The culture of Saudi Arabian society is an important factor in shaping the training experience of female nursing students either positively or negatively, specifically in the context of home healthcare nursing for older patients. The results of this study show how important it is for students to be prepared for the clinical environment, the nature of the work, and the role of the home healthcare nurse in order to improve their clinical learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Hamad Almegewly
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Taghreed Samel Alotaibi
- Department of Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Patridge E, Gorakshakar A, Molusky MM, Ogundijo O, Janevski A, Julian C, Hu L, Vuyisich M, Banavar G. Microbial functional pathways based on metatranscriptomic profiling enable effective saliva-based health assessments for precision wellness. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:834-842. [PMID: 38328005 PMCID: PMC10847690 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
It is increasingly recognized that an important step towards improving overall health is to accurately measure biomarkers of health from the molecular activities prevalent in the oral cavity. We present a general methodology for computationally quantifying the activity of microbial functional pathways using metatranscriptomic data. We describe their implementation as a collection of eight oral pathway scores using a large salivary sample dataset (n = 9350), and we evaluate score associations with oropharyngeal disease phenotypes within an unseen independent cohort (n = 14,129). Through this validation, we show that the relevant oral pathway scores are significantly worse in individuals with periodontal disease, acid reflux, and nicotine addiction, compared with controls. Given these associations, we make the case to use these oral pathway scores to provide molecular health insights from simple, non-invasive saliva samples, and as molecular endpoints for actionable interventions to address the associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Patridge
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
| | - Anmol Gorakshakar
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
| | | | - Oyetunji Ogundijo
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
| | - Angel Janevski
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
| | - Cristina Julian
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
| | - Lan Hu
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
| | | | - Guruduth Banavar
- Viome Research Institute, Viome Life Sciences Inc., New York City, USA
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7
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Alzahrani NS, Almarwani AM. The effect of HIV on patients' lives: a phenomenological qualitative study. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024; 19:2315634. [PMID: 38340013 PMCID: PMC10860465 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2024.2315634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection poses a significant threat to the immune system, compromising the body's ability to combat diseases and infections. The Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia reported an HIV incidence rate of 3 cases per 10,000 individuals. This study aimed to gain insight into the lived experience of Saudi patients living with HIV. METHODS Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, this study conducted in-depth interviews with 16 HIV patients (10 men, 6 women) between January 2023 and May 2023. RESULTS Thematic data analysis highlighted three overarching themes and four subthemes. "Fear of the Future" encompassed subthemes including the fear of infecting a family member, fear of marriage, fear of employment recruitment, and fear of scandals. "Hopelessness" reflected the profound emotional state experienced by patients. "Overcoming Adversity" captured the resilience and strength demonstrated by individuals facing the challenges of living with HIV. CONCLUSION Saudi patients diagnosed with HIV encounter numerous obstacles in their daily lives. The fear of the future, including concerns such as infecting family members, marriage prospects, employment opportunities, and potential social repercussions, significantly impacts their overall well-being. By understanding the lived experience of HIV patients in Saudi Arabia, healthcare providers and policymakers can better support and enhance the quality of life for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naif S. Alzahrani
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, College of Nursing, Taibah University, Medina, Saudi Arabia
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Khattak M, Rehman AU, Muqaddas T, Hussain R, Rasool MF, Saleem Z, Almalki MS, Alturkistani SA, Firash SZ, Alzahrani OM, Bahauddin AA, Abuhussain SA, Najjar MF, Elsabaa HMA, Haseeb A. Tuberculosis (TB) treatment challenges in TB-diabetes comorbid patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Med 2024; 56:2313683. [PMID: 38346381 PMCID: PMC10863515 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2313683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Directly Observed Treatment-Short Course (DOTS) Programme was implemented by WHO and includes a combination of four anti-tuberculosis (TB) drugs (isoniazid, pyrazinamide, ethambutol and rifampicin) for a period of six months to eradicate the TB infection completely. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is recognized as one of a strong contributor of TB according to World Health Organization (WHO). The presence of diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM type 2) makes TB treatment complicated. Thus, the objective of the current meta-analysis was to identify and quantify the impact of type 2 DM on treatment outcomes of TB patients treated under the DOTS Programme. METHODS This meta-analysis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Through a systematic review of relevant literature, we focused on studies investigating treatment outcomes including extended treatment duration and recurrence for individuals with both TB and DM undergoing DOTS therapy. The extracted information included study designs, sample sizes, patient characteristics and reported treatment results. RESULTS In 44 studies from different parts of the world, the pooled HR for the impact of DM on extended treatment duration and reoccurrence were HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56-0.83, p < .01 and HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.70-1.04, p = .08, respectively. The pooled HR for impact of DM on composite TB treatment outcomes was calculated as 0.76 (95% CI 0.60-0.87), p < .01 with an effect size of 41.18. The heterogeneity observed among the included studies was moderate (I2 = 55.79%). CONCLUSIONS A negative impact of DM was found on recurrence and extended treatment duration in TB patients treated with DOTS therapy. DM type 2 is responsible for the TB treatment prolongation and TB recurrence rates. By implementing effective management strategies and advancing research, the challenges can be mitigated, arising due to the complex interaction between DM and TB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnoor Khattak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Anees ur Rehman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Tuba Muqaddas
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Rabia Hussain
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Fawad Rasool
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Shuruq Zuhair Firash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Muath Fahmi Najjar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Al Rayan Private College of Health Sciences and Nursing, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdul Haseeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Al Rayan Private College of Health Sciences and Nursing, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
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Jehi T, Sabado P, Beeson L, Matta D, Herring P, Sharma A, Emory K, Serban P. Identifying the Determinants of Hookah Smoking Among the Youth; A Mixed-Methods Study. J Community Health 2024; 49:1073-1094. [PMID: 39003669 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-024-01374-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Hookahs have been rising in popularity in the United States (U.S.) especially among the youth yet not much research has been carried out to understand the various predictors of hookah use among youth. We have thus conducted a cross-sectional study with a mixed-methods triangulation design to identify the hookah use determinants at different levels of the Social Ecological Model among youth. Participants between the ages of 18-24 years were sampled purposively, between April to November 2023, following a snowballing technique from various communities in Virginia and California, United States. Data were collected via a survey, one-on-one interviews, and focus groups. The study had a total sample size of 20. We found that participants smoked for a median of 5 times in the past 30 days. The main determinants of hookah smoking included the limited knowledge of health effects and addiction, positive attitude, family and peer influence, use as a means to socially connect with others, culture, social acceptability, lack of education at school and work place, access to hookah bars and smoke shops, and lack of strict enforcement of laws to ban smoking of youth. Educational interventions should be implemented by public health authorities to target the youth, their social and communities to provide education on hookah harm and addictiveness and to restrict access to- and the production, distribution, marketing and sales of hookahs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Jehi
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Cal State University Dominguez Hills, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E Victoria St, Carson, CA, 90747, USA.
| | - Parichart Sabado
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Cal State University Dominguez Hills, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E Victoria St, Carson, CA, 90747, USA
| | - Lawrence Beeson
- Department of Nutrition & Dietetics, School of Allied Health Professions, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Dania Matta
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Patti Herring
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Archana Sharma
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Cal State University Dominguez Hills, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E Victoria St, Carson, CA, 90747, USA
| | - Kristen Emory
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Cal State University Dominguez Hills, Dominguez Hills, 1000 E Victoria St, Carson, CA, 90747, USA
| | - Pamela Serban
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
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Saikia D, Vijay A, Cebajel Bhanwarlal T, Singh SP. Validating the utility of heavy water (Deuterium Oxide) as a potential Raman spectroscopic probe for identification of antibiotic resistance. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 321:124723. [PMID: 38941753 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.124723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
The impact of microbial infections is increasing over time, and it is one of the major reasons for death in both developed and developing countries. colistin is considered as the antibiotic of last choice for infections brought by major multidrug-resistant (MDR), gram-negative bacteria such as Enterobacter species, Acinetobacter species, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Existing approaches to diagnose these resistant species are relatively slow and take up to 2 to 3 days. In this work, we propose a novel interdisciplinary method based on Raman spectroscopy and heavy water to identify colistin-resistant microbes. Our hypothesis is based on the fact that resistant bacteria will be metabolically active in the culture medium containing antibiotics and heavy water, and these bacteria will take up deuterium instead of hydrogen to newly synthesized lipids and proteins. This effect will generate a 'C - D' bond-specific Raman spectral marker. Successful identification of this band in the spectral profile can confirm the presence of colistin-resistant bacteria. We have validated the efficacy of this approach in identifying colistin-resistant bacteria spiked in artificial urine and have compared sensitivity at different bacterial concentrations. Overall findings suggest that heavy water can potentially serve as a suitable Raman probe for identifying metabolically active colistin-resistant bacteria via urine under clinically implementable time and can be used in clinical settings after validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimple Saikia
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Dharwad, Dharwad, Karnataka 580011, India
| | - Arunsree Vijay
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Dharwad, Dharwad, Karnataka 580011, India
| | - Tanan Cebajel Bhanwarlal
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Dharwad, Dharwad, Karnataka 580011, India
| | - S P Singh
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Dharwad, Dharwad, Karnataka 580011, India.
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Kumar P, Singh S, Gacem A, Yadav KK, Bhutto JK, Alreshidi MA, Kumar M, Kumar A, Yadav VK, Soni S, Kumar R, Qasim MT, Tariq M, Alam MW. A review on e-waste contamination, toxicity, and sustainable clean-up approaches for its management. Toxicology 2024; 508:153904. [PMID: 39106909 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2024.153904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
Ecosystems and human health are being negatively impacted by the growing problem of electrical waste, especially in developing countries. E-waste poses a significant risk to ecological systems because it can release a variety of hazardous substances into the environment, containing polybrominated diphenyl ethers and heavy metals, brominated flame retardants, polychlorinated dibenzofurans and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and dioxins. This review article provides a critical assessment of the toxicological consequences of e-waste on ecosystems and human health and data analyses from scientific journals and grey literature on metals, BFRs, PBDEs, PCDFs, and PAHs in several environmental compartments of commercial significance in informal electronic trash recycling. The currently available techniques and tools employed for treating e-waste are sustainable techniques such as bioremediation, chemical leaching, biological leaching, and pyrometallurgy have been also discussed along with the necessity of implementing strong legislation to address the issue of unregulated exports of electronic trash in recycling practices. Despite the ongoing hurdles, implementing environmentally sustainable recycling methods have the potential to address the detrimental impacts of e-waste and foster positive economic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Kumar
- Department of Environmental Science, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat 391760, India.
| | - Snigdha Singh
- Department of Environmental Science, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat 391760, India
| | - Amel Gacem
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University 20 Août 1955, Skikda, Algeria
| | - Krishna Kumar Yadav
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Madhyanchal Professional University, Ratibad, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462044, India; Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences Research Group, Scientific Research Center, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Nasiriyah 64001, Iraq
| | - Javed Khan Bhutto
- Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Hydrology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Anand Kumar
- School of Management Studies, Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar 803116, India
| | - Virendra Kumar Yadav
- Marwadi University Research Center, Department of Microbiology, Marwadi University, Rajkot, Gujarat, 360003, India
| | - Sunil Soni
- School of Medico-Legal Studies, National Forensic Science University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat 382007, India
| | - Ramesh Kumar
- Department of Environmental Science, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat 391760, India
| | - Maytham T Qasim
- College of health and Medical Technology, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar 64001, Iraq
| | - Mohd Tariq
- Department of Life Sciences, Parul Institute of Applied Sciences, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat 391760, India
| | - Mir Waqas Alam
- Department of Physics, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.
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Ortiz B, Ballesteros-Monrreal MG, Rosales-Tamashiro J, Bush M, Salmanton-García J, Fontecha G. Global Insights and Trends in Research on Dermatophytes and Dermatophytosis: A Bibliometric Analysis. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13803. [PMID: 39343727 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dermatophytosis, caused by dermatophytes, affects up to 25% of people globally, with higher rates observed in Africa and Asia. While these infections are usually superficial, they can become severe in immunocompromised individuals. Despite their high prevalence, scientific research on dermatophytes is limited and the epidemiological data available are insufficient. In addition, diagnostic methods are not standardised and there are challenges with resistance to antifungals. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications related to dermatophytes and dermatophytosis to assess research output and trends. METHODS A bibliometric analysis of publications from 2000 to 2023 in Web of Science and Scopus examined trends, citation counts, publication types, key journals, top authors and institutions and funding sources. RESULTS The analysis revealed a significant increase in dermatophyte-related publications, with 15,868 articles retrieved from the Web of Science and 23,189 from Scopus. Research articles dominated the output, constituting 76.2% in Web of Science and 80% in Scopus. Peak publication years were 2019, 2021 and 2022 in Web of Science, and 2020, 2021 and 2023 in Scopus, with lower output between 2000 and 2002. The United States and India were the leading contributors, followed by Brazil and China, though citation metrics varied. Although there has been a rise in the number of publications, the amount of research conducted on dermatophytes is still very limited in comparison with other types of fungal diseases. CONCLUSIONS Dermatophyte-related research has increased over the past 2 decades. However, research gaps remain, particularly compared with other fungal diseases. Advances in diagnostics, antifungal testing and taxonomic classification are urgently needed. The study underscores the need for continued research and global collaboration to address these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Ortiz
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | | | - Juan Rosales-Tamashiro
- Maestría de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Zoonóticas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
| | - Michelle Bush
- Department of Biological Sciences, Markey Center for Structural Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Jon Salmanton-García
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gustavo Fontecha
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
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13
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Rotimi DE, Acho MA, Falana BM, Olaolu TD, Mgbojikwe I, Ojo OA, Adeyemi OS. Oxidative Stress-induced Hormonal Disruption in Male Reproduction. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2943-2956. [PMID: 39090335 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01662-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Research into the impacts of oxidative stress (OS), and hormonal balance on reproductive potential has increased over the last 40 years possibly due to rising male infertility. Decreased antioxidant levels and increased OS in tissues result from hormonal imbalance, which in turn leads to male infertility. Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in seminal plasma has been linked to many lifestyle factors such as alcohol and tobacco use, toxicant exposure, obesity, varicocele, stress, and aging. This article provides an overview of the crosslink between OS and gonadal hormone disruption, as well as a potential mode of action in male infertility. Disrupting the equilibrium between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense mechanism in the male reproductive system may affect key hormonal regulators of male reproductive activities. Unchecked ROS production may cause direct injury on reproductive tissues or could disrupt normal regulatory mechanisms of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and its interaction with other endocrine axes, both of which have negative effects on male reproductive health and can lead to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare Emmanuel Rotimi
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria.
| | - Marvellous A Acho
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Michael Falana
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agricultural Sciences, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Tomilola Debby Olaolu
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Ifunaya Mgbojikwe
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria.
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria.
| | - Oluyomi Stephen Adeyemi
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria
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Alghadeer S, Mubarak AM, Alsuwayni B, Almurdhi F, Almalki H, Alotaibi M. The association between uncontrolled hyperglycemia (Type-2 Diabetes) and cardiovascular sequelae in patients with and without insulin. Saudi Pharm J 2024; 32:102168. [PMID: 39295783 PMCID: PMC11408277 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.102168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite the availability of new cardio-protective oral hypoglycemic drugs, insulin is often recommended as an add-on therapy for type-2 diabetes with hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) ≥ 9. Introducing insulin as a choice for patients with uncontrolled hyperglycemia (HbA1C≥9) has been questionably associated with cardiovascular sequelae. This study aims to examine the association between insulin use and cardiovascular effects in type-2 diabetic patients with uncontrolled hyperglycemia. Methodology A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted to identify cardiovascular complications between the two groups (patients with HbA1C≥9% on insulin versus those with HbA1C≥9% without insulin) at King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC). Patients with type-2 diabetes whose HbA1C was ≥ 9 during the period from 2015 to 2018 and who were followed up within the hospital for at least 5 years until the end of 2022 were included in the study. Results A total of 366 patients were included in the study; 286 patients were on insulin, while 80 patients were not. The median baseline HbA1C levels were comparable between the two groups (10.2 versus 9.8). After 5 years of follow-up, there was no significant difference between the groups (29.4 % of insulin users versus 18.8 % of non-insulin users; p = 0.065). However, the incidence of other diabetes complications, such as retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, was significantly higher among patients who were on insulin compared to those not on insulin (50.7 % versus 27.5 %; p = 0.005). Additionally, the average of the last three HbA1C readings and the overall average HbA1C readings were significantly higher among patients who were on insulin (9.67 % versus 9.07 %; p = 0.001) compared to those not on insulin (9.64 % versus 9.11 %; p = 0.005). Conclusion Our study did not find a significant association between the use of insulin and cardiovascular complications. The association between insulin therapy and the development of other diabetes complications warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sultan Alghadeer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah M Mubarak
- Department of Basic Sciences, PSCEMS, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bashayr Alsuwayni
- Corporate of Pharmacy Services, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Almurdhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazim Almalki
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Metib Alotaibi
- Diabetes Center, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Mahmoud I, Al Eid MMA, Mohamed MA, Aladwani AJ, El Amin NEM. Human papillomavirus vaccination and Pap test uptake, awareness, and barriers among young adults in Gulf Cooperation Council countries: A comparative cross-sectional survey. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:102525. [PMID: 39243689 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and Pap tests are recognized as effective preventive measures to reduce the incidence of HPV-related diseases among young adults. The objective of this study was to assess HPV vaccination and Pap test uptake, awareness, and barriers among young adults in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2024, involving 831 young adults aged 18-39 residing in GCC countries. The main outcome measures were HPV vaccination and Pap test uptake rates, awareness of the HPV vaccine and Pap testing, and barriers to vaccination. Data were collected using online platforms. The Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used for data analysis. RESULTS The UAE had the highest vaccination rate at 18.9% (50/264), followed by Qatar at 5.8% (6/104), and KSA at 4.6% (10/216), p < 0.001. Individuals with health insurance had higher vaccination rates than those without (11% vs. 5.4%, p = 0.006). Awareness of the HPV vaccine was highest in the UAE (49.6%) and KSA (58.8%), while awareness of Pap smear testing among females was similarly high in these countries (62.4% and 65.9%, respectively). However, actual Pap smear testing rates were highest in Bahrain (15.9%) and Qatar (13.4%). The main barriers to vaccination cited by participants were lack of knowledge (53.6%) and the absence of medical recommendations (13.2%). CONCLUSION The study's findings suggest the need of targeted educational campaigns to increase HPV vaccine uptake among both genders and Pap test participation among females. Additionally, incorporating HPV screening and vaccination into routine national programs in GCC countries and emphasising the crucial role of healthcare providers in influencing vaccination decisions are recommended strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Mahmoud
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
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16
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Georgakopoulou VE, Sklapani P, Trakas N, Reiter RJ, Spandidos DA. Exploring the association between melatonin and nicotine dependence (Review). Int J Mol Med 2024; 54:82. [PMID: 39092582 PMCID: PMC11315657 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2024.5406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to the addictive qualities of tobacco products and the compulsive craving and dependence associated with their use, nicotine dependence continues to be a serious public health concern on a global scale. Despite awareness of the associated health risks, nicotine addiction contributes to numerous acute and chronic medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders and cancer. The nocturnal secretion of pineal melatonin, known as the 'hormone of darkness', influences circadian rhythms and is implicated in addiction‑related behaviors. Melatonin receptors are found throughout the brain, influencing dopaminergic neurotransmission and potentially attenuating nicotine‑seeking behavior. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of melatonin may mitigate oxidative stress from chronic nicotine exposure, reducing cellular damage and lowering the risk of nicotine‑related health issues. In addition to its effects on circadian rhythmicity, melatonin acting via specific neural receptors influences sleep and mood, and provides neuroprotection. Disruptions in melatonin signaling may contribute to sleep disturbances and mood disorders, highlighting the potential therapeutic role of melatonin in addiction and psychiatric conditions. Melatonin may influence neurotransmitter systems involved in addiction, such as the dopaminergic, glutamatergic, serotonergic and endogenous opioid systems. Preclinical studies suggest the potential of melatonin in modulating reward processing, attenuating drug‑induced hyperactivity and reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms. Chronotherapeutic approaches targeting circadian rhythms and melatonin signaling show promise in smoking cessation interventions. Melatonin supplementation during periods of heightened nicotine cravings may alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce the reinforcing effects of nicotine. Further research is required however, to examine the molecular mechanisms underlying the melatonin‑nicotine association and the optimization of therapeutic interventions. Challenges include variability in individual responses to melatonin, optimal dosing regimens and identifying biomarkers of treatment response. Understanding these complexities could lead to personalized treatment strategies and improve smoking cessation outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pagona Sklapani
- Department of Biochemistry, Sismanogleio Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Trakas
- Department of Biochemistry, Sismanogleio Hospital, 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UT Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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Sayed AI, Mobarki SJ, Oberi IA, Omar YZ, Moafa SH, Ayoub RA, Ajeebi Y, Hakami F, Hakami A, Somaili M. Effect of Stress on Sleep Quality among Medical Students: A Cross-sectional Study at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. Ann Afr Med 2024; 23:586-593. [PMID: 39138930 DOI: 10.4103/aam.aam_7_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It has long been understood that sleep is a necessary therapeutic element of human physiology and is crucial for healthy functioning, mental health, and quality of life. Medical students frequently minimize their sleep and habits to cope with their workload and their stressful lives, which has a negative influence on both mental health and academic performance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of stress and its effect on sleep quality among medical students (in both the preclinical and clinical years) at Jazan University in Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional research design was applied in this study. The sample constituted medical students at Jazan University, Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered online survey was distributed actively to measure the variables of interest. RESULTS This study examined the sleep quality and psychological distress among 347 students. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of students experienced sleep difficulties, with 52.8% reporting mild sleep problems and 46.6% reporting moderate sleep difficulties. In addition, a notable percentage of participants (28.2%) reported very high psychological distress, while 27.4% experienced severe psychological distress. CONCLUSIONS This study found that medical students had a high level of stress and poor sleep quality, which led to unhealthy habits, such as consuming many energy drinks. Hence, it is recommended that concerns should be addressed to minimize the risk of developing chronic illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed I Sayed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Yazan Z Omar
- Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Raum A Ayoub
- Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yara Ajeebi
- Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdulrahman Hakami
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Somaili
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Zhou H. Total bilirubin level is associated with acute kidney injury in neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care units: based on MIMIC-III database. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:4235-4241. [PMID: 38990386 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05682-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the association between total bilirubin and acute kidney injury (AKI) in neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU). METHODS All data utilized were extracted from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-III (MIMIC-III) in this retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome was the occurrence of AKI during hospitalization in the NICU, and the exposure was the initial measurement of total bilirubin levels within 24 h of neonatal admission to the NICU. The relationship between serum total bilirubin and AKI was evaluated by employing univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted based on birth weight, sepsis, and mechanical ventilation. RESULTS This retrospective cohort study included a population of 1,726 neonates, and 95 neonates developed AKI. Total bilirubin, as a continuous variable, was linked with decreased AKI risk among neonates admitted to the NICU [odds ratio (OR) = 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64-0.92]. Similarly, when total bilirubin levels were categorized by tertiles, tertiles 3 showed a significant association with decreased AKI risk (OR = 0.39, 95%CI: 0.19-0.83). The relationship of total bilirubin level and AKI was also existent among neonates admitted to the NICU who were underweight, had not sepsis, and received mechanical ventilation. CONCLUSION Total bilirubin level may be a protective factor for the risk of developing AKI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Zhou
- Department of Neonatology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.26 Shengli Street, Jiangan District, Wuhan, 430014, Hubei Province, China.
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Terruzzi A, AlMadani A, Al-Rukn S, Farghaly M, Dallal SA, Zayed M, Vainstein N, Fathy M, Uboweja A, Natarajan A, Subramanyam K, Ramachandrachar BC, Aljabban A. A Retrospective Analysis of Disease Epidemiology, Comorbidity Burden, Treatment Patterns, and Healthcare Resource Utilization of Migraine in the United Arab Emirates. Pain Ther 2024; 13:1235-1255. [PMID: 39030417 PMCID: PMC11393247 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-024-00634-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Migraine is a recurrent, disabling neurological disorder with a substantial global disease burden. However, limited real-world data are available on the patient characteristics, treatment patterns, comorbidities, and economic burden of migraine in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In this study, we evaluated the disease burden, comorbidities, treatment patterns, specialties involved in migraine diagnosis, and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and associated costs in patients with migraine in Dubai, UAE. METHODS A retrospective, secondary database cohort study was conducted from 01 January 2014 to 31 March 2022 using the Dubai Real-World Database. Patients aged ≥ 18 years with at least one diagnosis claim for migraine with continuous enrollment during the study period were included. Patients were stratified into treatment sub-cohorts. Outcomes were evaluated in terms of clinical characteristics, comorbidities, specialists visited, treatment patterns, and HCRU. RESULTS The study included 203,222 patients (mean age: 40 years), with male predominance (55.4%). About 13.4% of patients had specific cardiovascular comorbidities. Frequently prescribed drug classes were nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (84.4%), triptans (29.8%), and beta-blockers (12.8%), while only 1.0% of patients with migraine were prescribed newer medications like calcitonin gene-related peptide antagonists. General medicine was the most frequently visited specialty on the index date (51.5%). The all-cause and migraine-specific median gross costs during the 12-month post-index period were US $1252.6 (2.4-564,740.7) and US $198.1 (0-168,903.3) respectively, with maximum contribution from inpatients. The contribution of migraine-specific median costs to all-cause median costs was highest for the diagnosis-related group (64.9%), followed by consumables (35.2%), medications (32.0%), procedures (24.5%), and services (24.5%). CONCLUSION Migraine significantly impacts healthcare costs in the UAE. The role of newer therapies in migraine management should be explored to reduce the associated socioeconomic burden and improve patients' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mohamed Farghaly
- Health Economics and Insurance Policies Department, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE
| | | | - Mostafa Zayed
- Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR), Pfizer, Dubai, UAE
| | - Nora Vainstein
- Cardiovascular Scientific Expert Emerging Market, Pfizer, Dubai, UAE
| | | | - Anup Uboweja
- Value and Implementation Global Medical and Scientific Affairs, MSD, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | | | | | | | - Ali Aljabban
- Pfizer, Dubai Media City, P.O. Box 502749, Dubai, UAE.
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20
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Alshimemeri S, AlSudais H, Alamri NK, Alshoumar AM, Bin Dher SK, Maashi MH. Burden, Anxiety, and Depression Among Caregivers of Parkinson's Disease Patients. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2024:JPD240014. [PMID: 39365323 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-240014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Parkinson's disease (PD) is a disabling neurodegenerative movement disorder. Most PD patients are looked after by caregivers who are close to them regardless of their relationship. Caregivers may experience a notable impact on their mental health as they dedicate a significant amount of time to the patient while observing the progression of the disease. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of burden, depression, anxiety, and stress among caregivers of PD patients. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis between July and September 2023 among caregivers of PD patients following in the Movement Disorders Clinic at King Khalid University Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and through the Saudi Parkinson's Society. The data collection was done anonymously through an electronic self-administered questionnaire. Caregiver burden was assessed by using the validated Arabic version of the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) scale, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) was used to assess the presence and level of anxiety and depression. Results There were 118 caregivers (53.39% female, 33.9% aged between 35- 45 years, and 73.73% were sons/daughters) caring for 118 patients (57.63% , male, 38.98% aged between 66- 76). The ZBI score was highest among sibling caregivers. Moreover, burden scores were higher among those who provided care more frequently than others. Conclusions Our study revealed that PD caregivers face a high risk of care burden, especially those who are siblings and spend longer periods in patient care. Additionally, female caregivers reported higher rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. Plain Language Summary Parkinson's disease (PD) is a serious condition that affects movement, and most PD patients are cared for by someone close to them, such as a family member. This caregiving can significantly impact the mental health of the caregiver, who often spends a lot of time caring for the patient and witnessing the disease's progression. We studied caregivers of PD patients at the Movement Disorders Clinic at King Khalid University Hospital and through the Saudi Parkinson's Society from July to September 2023. Caregivers completed an anonymous electronic questionnaire, and we measured caregiver burden using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and assessed anxiety and depression using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS). Our study included 118 caregivers (53.39% female, most aged 35- 45 years, and 73.73% were sons or daughters) caring for 118 PD patients (57.63% male, most aged 66- 76 years). Caregivers who were siblings or cared for the patient daily had higher burden scores, and female caregivers had higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to males. Our study revealed that PD caregivers face a high risk of care burden, especially those who are siblings and spend longer periods in patient care, and that female caregivers exhibited an elevated risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, or stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohaila Alshimemeri
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamood AlSudais
- Chair of Medical and Molecular Genetics Research, Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada K Alamri
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Jena S, Swain PK, Senapati RE, Acharya SK. Trajectory of suicide among Indian children and adolescents: a pooled analysis of national data from 1995 to 2021. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:123. [PMID: 39350277 PMCID: PMC11443910 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00818-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide is a major public health concern in India especially among children and adolescents. The yearly national statistics show a concerning trend of rising suicide deaths in these age groups. METHODS The present study, taking 26 years of national data from the National Crime Record Bureau during 1995-2021, examined the trend, patterns, means, and modes of children/adolescent suicides in India. We also undertook a time series analysis by using ARIMA (0,2,1) model to forecast the expected suicide rate for the next one decade. RESULTS A rising trend of suicide rate among children and adolescents was observed in India over the last 26 years. The forecast indicates a continuance of rising suicide cases for the upcoming decade in India. A substantially different trend of suicide rate was observed among early and late adolescents indicating significantly high vulnerability of late adolescents. Among children /adolescents, the most common causes of suicide were family problems, academic failure, illness, and unemployment. Illness has emerged as one of the leading causes of suicide, with a significant rise over time. Poverty and unemployment were also found as the important contributors with a steadily increasing trend of suicide among children and adolescents facing these problems in recent years. CONCLUSION The study provides important analysis and information on suicide among children/adolescents in India, by providing useful insights for parents, teachers, policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and stakeholders aiming to prevent and control children and adolescent suicide and boost mental health. The study also provides important leads on risk factors with a forecast of suicide trends for the next 10 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susangita Jena
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, NALCO Nagar, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, 751023, Odisha, India
| | | | - Rachel Elizabeth Senapati
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, NALCO Nagar, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, 751023, Odisha, India
| | - Subhendu Kumar Acharya
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, NALCO Nagar, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, 751023, Odisha, India.
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22
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Mahesarajah S, El Asmar ML, Irwin R, Vallejo-Vaz AJ, Mastellos N, Dharmayat KI. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychotropic prescribing: a systematic review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e076791. [PMID: 39322596 PMCID: PMC11425938 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The global prevalence of mental health disorders has risen significantly since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has additionally caused disruption to mental health services, leading to a shift from in-person to remote service delivery. Given its long-term impact, it has become critical to evaluate whether changes in health delivery during the pandemic have had an effect on prescribing patterns for commonly prescribed psychotropic drugs. This study aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on changes in psychotropic prescribing patterns in adults, as well as differences in prescribing in different healthcare delivery approaches across various geographical contexts. DESIGN AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Systematic review of cohort, interrupted time-series and cross-sectional studies examining prescribing trends for at least one commonly prescribed psychotropic drug during and after COVID-19 in accessing care remotely or face to face between 1 January 2020 and 17 June 2022. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, HMIC and PsycINFO databases were searched in addition to citation chaining of relevant reviews. EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS Study screening, data extraction and quality assessment were completed by two independent reviewers. The PECO strategy was used to devise the systematic review and findings were synthesised narratively. RESULTS 16 studies were eligible for inclusion. Studies documenting changes in psychotropic prescribing trends provided very conflicting findings. There were no stark differences in prescribing outcomes between different healthcare delivery methods (ie, face-to-face consultations vs remote consultations). A noteworthy finding was that the prescribing rate of benzodiazepines was higher in women than men. No particular trends were observed for the prescription rates of hypnotics, antidepressants or antipsychotics. CONCLUSIONS Findings support mixed trends in the prescription of psychotropic medications in a range of settings, hindering conclusive statements on COVID-19's impact on prescribing. In areas where remote consultations are in use, more comprehensive research is required to assess the safety of prescribing in these settings to inform public health policy and assess if the observed trends in our systematic review persist over time (given the increased consideration of remote and telehealth care in delivering services), particularly the safe and effective deployment of these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swettha Mahesarajah
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Ryan Irwin
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - Kanika I Dharmayat
- Imperial Centre for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention (ICCP), Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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23
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Diekhoff T, Giraudo C, Machado PM, Mallinson M, Eshed I, Haibel H, Hermann KG, de Hooge M, Jans L, Jurik AG, Lambert RG, Maksymowych W, Marzo-Ortega H, Navarro-Compán V, Østergaard M, Pedersen SJ, Reijnierse M, Rudwaleit M, Sommerfleck FA, Weber U, Baraliakos X, Poddubnyy D. Clinical information on imaging referrals for suspected or known axial spondyloarthritis: recommendations from the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS). Ann Rheum Dis 2024:ard-2024-226280. [PMID: 39317418 DOI: 10.1136/ard-2024-226280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to establish expert consensus recommendations for clinical information on imaging requests in suspected/known axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), focusing on enhancing diagnostic clarity and patient care through guidelines. MATERIALS AND METHODS A specialised task force was formed, comprising 7 radiologists, 11 rheumatologists from the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) and a patient representative. Using the Delphi method, two rounds of surveys were conducted among ASAS members. These surveys aimed to identify critical elements for imaging referrals and to refine these elements for practical application. The task force deliberated on the survey outcomes and proposed a set of recommendations, which were then presented to the ASAS community for a decisive vote. RESULTS The collaborative effort resulted in a set of six detailed recommendations for clinicians involved in requesting imaging for patients with suspected or known axSpA. These recommendations cover crucial areas, including clinical features indicative of axSpA, clinical features, mechanical factors, past imaging data, potential contraindications for specific imaging modalities or contrast media and detailed reasons for the examination, including differential diagnoses. Garnering support from 73% of voting ASAS members, these recommendations represent a consensus on optimising imaging request protocols in axSpA. CONCLUSION The ASAS recommendations offer comprehensive guidance for rheumatologists in requesting imaging for axSpA, aiming to standardise requesting practices. By improving the precision and relevance of imaging requests, these guidelines should enhance the clinical impact of radiology reports, facilitate accurate diagnosis and consequently improve the management of patients with axSpA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Diekhoff
- Department of Radiology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Pedro M Machado
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, University College London, London, UK
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Iris Eshed
- Radiology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Hildrun Haibel
- Med. Dep I, Rheumatology, Charité University, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Manouk de Hooge
- VIB Center of Inflammation Research, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Lennart Jans
- Radiology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne Grethe Jurik
- Department of Radiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Robert Gw Lambert
- Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Helena Marzo-Ortega
- Section of Musculoskeletal Disease, Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Mikkel Østergaard
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Center for Rheumatology and Spine Diseases, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Susanne Juhl Pedersen
- Department of Rheumatology, Copenhagen University Hospital Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
- Copenhagen Center for Arthritis Research, Glostrup, Denmark
| | | | - Martin Rudwaleit
- Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Klinikum Bielefeld Rosenhöhe, Bielefeld, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Weber
- Rheumatology, Practice Zenit, Schaffhausen, Switzerland
| | | | - Denis Poddubnyy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Infectious Diseases and Rheumatology (including Nutrition Medicine), Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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24
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Mussabekova Z, Tukinova A. Consumption of energy drinks among medical university students in Kazakhstan. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2024:ijamh-2024-0090. [PMID: 39298670 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2024-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Due to lack of information and deceptive advertising, young people widely consume energy drinks, although they should be careful because of their contents. Energy drinks contain high amounts of caffeine, sugar, and other additives that can stimulate the body. They can cause irritability, anxiety, insomnia and can increase heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate. Aim of this research was to study consumption of energy drinks among medical university students in Kazakhstan. METHODS Cross-sectional study was conducted. A web-based questionnaire was used to collect information. Students enrolled in various courses at the medical university, including interns and residents, were invited to participate. A total of 764 respondents took part in the survey. RESULTS Among the trainees, 41.4 % had consumed caffeinated energy drinks in the past six months, and at the time of the survey, 16.2 % of the respondents had consumed these drinks. Respondents who do not drink alcohol are 3 times (p<0.001) more likely not to use energy drinks compared to those who drink alcohol. Those who do not exercise are 4.7 times (p<0.001) more likely not to consume energy drinks compared to active athletes. Participants who had not consumed caffeinated energy drinks in the past six months were 1.8 times (p<0.001) more likely not to consume energy drinks compared to those who drank them. CONCLUSIONS Consumption of energy drinks by students can temporarily increase physical and mental performance, improve mood and raise energy levels, while at the same time, they also come with serious health risks. Therefore, educating students about the potential risks and the importance of a healthy lifestyle is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanna Mussabekova
- School of Postgraduate Education, Alumni Employability and Career, 373881 Semey Medical University , Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - Assel Tukinova
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, 373881 Semey Medical University , Semey City, Kazakhstan
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25
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Hailu S, Jara D, Bogale EK. Nutritional status and its associated factors among infants and young children aged 6-23 months in Addis Ababa, Central Ethiopia, 2021: a cross-sectional study. J Nutr Sci 2024; 13:e43. [PMID: 39351256 PMCID: PMC11440571 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2024.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess nutritional status and associated factors among infants and young children aged 6-23 months in Yeka sub-city, Ethiopia, 2021. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in selected health centres found in the Yeka sub-city from May 2021 to July 2021. In total, 396 systematically selected infants and young children aged 6-23 months attended the selected health centres were included in the study. Data were collected by using a structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. A multinomial logistic regression model was used. The overall magnitude of undernutrition and overnutrition among infants and young children were 24.7% and 5.5%, respectively. Dietary diversity score (DDS) ((adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 5.65; 95% CI = 2.301, 10.87; P value = 0.003), minimum meal frequency (MMF) (AOR = 5.435; 95% CI = 2.097, 11.09; P value = 0.0052), and diarrhoea (AOR = 2.52; 95% CI = 1.007, 6.310; P value = 0.002) were statistically significantly associated factors for nutritional status among infants and young children. Malnutrition (undernutrition and overnutrition) is a public health problem among infants and young children in Yeka sub-city, Ethiopia. DDS, MMF, and diarrhoeal disease were associated with higher odds of undernutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisay Hailu
- Hiddassie Health Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dube Jara
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Department of Biostatics and Epidemiology, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Ketema Bogale
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar PO. Box, 079, Ethiopia
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26
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Barbed-Castrejón N, Navaridas-Nalda F, Ábalos-Villanueva C, Mason O, Ortuño-Sierra J. Phubbing in Adolescents: Spanish Validation of the Phubbing Scale (PS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1257. [PMID: 39338140 PMCID: PMC11432157 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21091257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2024] [Revised: 09/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
The Phubbing Scale (PS) is an instrument used to measure the frequency and extent of the behavior of ignoring someone you are with and giving attention to your mobile phone instead. However, there is insufficient evidence about the psychometric adequacy of the Spanish version of the instrument. The main goal of this research was to analyze the psychometric properties of PS in a representative sample of Spanish adolescents and young adults. A total of 1351 participants comprised the sample (42.78% females, age range = 12-21). Students were selected from different levels of education such as secondary school, high school, vocational training, or university. A convenient sample was used. The reliability of the scores was calculated by means of McDonald's Omega. The evidence of the internal structure of the questionnaire was analyzed by means of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The measurement invariance of the instrument by gender and educational level was also calculated. In addition, Pearson's correlations between phubbing and other indicators of mental health were also calculated. The goodness-of-fit indices for the two-factor model were good. The McDonald's Omega coefficient for the total score was 0.787. Measurement invariance both by gender and educational level was found. The phenomenon of phubbing was found to have statistically significant correlations with emotional well-being, other mental health indicators, and with Problematic Internet Use (PIU), with the sole exception of the hyperactivity subscale of the SDQ. This study provided validity evidence for the Spanish version of the Phubbing Scale (PS), suggesting that PS is a reliable tool for quantifying phubbing in Spanish adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Barbed-Castrejón
- Educational Sciences Department, University of La Rioja, 26004 Logroño, Spain; (F.N.-N.); (C.Á.-V.); (J.O.-S.)
| | - Fermín Navaridas-Nalda
- Educational Sciences Department, University of La Rioja, 26004 Logroño, Spain; (F.N.-N.); (C.Á.-V.); (J.O.-S.)
| | - Cristina Ábalos-Villanueva
- Educational Sciences Department, University of La Rioja, 26004 Logroño, Spain; (F.N.-N.); (C.Á.-V.); (J.O.-S.)
| | - Oliver Mason
- Psychology Department, Surrey University, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK;
| | - Javier Ortuño-Sierra
- Educational Sciences Department, University of La Rioja, 26004 Logroño, Spain; (F.N.-N.); (C.Á.-V.); (J.O.-S.)
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27
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AlRadini FA, Abdulrahim M, AlOtaibi N, Al Amri FA, Amer SA. Patients' experience of telehealth clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic: Cross-sectional study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e39837. [PMID: 39312309 PMCID: PMC11419545 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000039837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in 2019 has accelerated the adoption of telehealth technologies. The implementation of the Saudi Telemedicine Network (STN) and other digital health initiatives, such as the telehealth clinic (THC) at King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAAUH), exemplifies this trend in Saudi Arabia. The aim of this study was to explore the patients' experience of THC in KAAUH during the COVID-19 pandemic and their' beliefs about their readiness to replace the traditional onsite clinical visits with THC from March to September 2020. A cross-sectional study targeted all 1398 patients who utilized THC at KAAUH. A self-administrated, validated survey collected the data. The survey used a Likert scale and included questions on satisfaction with THC services and the perceived effectiveness of telehealth as a substitute for in-person visits. The collected data was analyzed using frequency and percentage. A total of 252 patients responded to the THC postvisit survey. Overall, 217 patients (86%) were satisfied, 32 patients (13%) were dissatisfied, and only 3 patients (1%) were neutral about THC. Most patients (65.5%) agree that THC provided enough information about their health conditions, which can substitute for clinical visits. About 18.3% of patients were neutral, while 16.3% disagreed with the effectiveness of THC services and believed that they could not replace onsite visits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most patients were satisfied at KAAUH-THC in Saudi Arabia and believed that it could replace the onsite visit to a physician's clinic. The 2 main causes of the patient's belief that THC could not replace an onsite clinical visit were: First, nonadherence to appointments led to missed calls and a complete medical service. Second, the patient's perception is that a physical examination and lab investigation cannot be completed through THC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten A. AlRadini
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha Abdulrahim
- Research & Academic Accreditation Office, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif AlOtaibi
- Patients’ Experience Office, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad A. Al Amri
- Global Center for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Public Health Agency, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Samar Ahmed Amer
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, 11459 Zagazig, Egypt
- Department of General Practitioners, Royal College of General Practioners, London, United Kingdom
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28
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Shrestha M, Sherer PP, Paek SC, Prasert K, Chawalchitiporn S, Praphasiri P. Influenza vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers in a Northeastern province in Thailand: Findings of a cross-sectional survey. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0310761. [PMID: 39298526 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0310761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HCWs) are an important target group for influenza vaccination due to their increased risk of infection. However, their uptake remains a challenge. This study aimed to identify and measure influenza vaccine hesitancy among HCWs in Nakhon Phanom province, Thailand. METHODS A representative cross-sectional survey was conducted during August-September 2020, among 350 HCWs at six hospitals in the province selected by a two-stage cluster sampling using a self-administered questionnaire. HCWs who either delayed getting influenza vaccines, accepted the vaccines but were unsure, or refused the vaccine with doubts were categorized as hesitant. HCWs who accepted the influenza vaccine without any doubts were classified as non-hesitant. Determinants of vaccine hesitancy were identified by a multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 338 participants (97%) filled the questionnaires. The mean age of the participants was 37.2 years. Most participants were female (280; 83%), nurses (136; 40%), working at district hospitals (238; 71%), with bachelor's degree (223; 66%), and without any pre-existing chronic medical conditions (264; 78%). Influenza vaccine hesitancy was evident among nearly 60% of the participants (197/338), who had varying patterns of hesitancy. Significant factors of influenza vaccine hesitancy were found to be age above 50 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.2, 95% CI 1.3-8.5), fair knowledge of influenza and vaccination (aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2-0.8), and negative influence of other HCW (High level-aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-4.8; Moderate level- aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1-4.4). CONCLUSION Influenza vaccine hesitancy was highly prevalent among the Thai HCWs in Nakhon Phanom province. Imparting updated information to the HCW, in combination with positive guidance from influential HCWs in the hospital, may help reduce hesitancy. These data may be useful to the National Immunization Program to design appropriate approaches to target hesitant HCWs in Thailand to improve influenza vaccine coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manash Shrestha
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Penchan Pradubmook Sherer
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Seung Chun Paek
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kriengkrai Prasert
- Nakhon Phanom Hospital, Nakhon Phanom, Thailand
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
| | | | - Prabda Praphasiri
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
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29
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Warren JD. Neurological eponyms? Take your Pick. Pract Neurol 2024:pn-2024-004314. [PMID: 39271197 DOI: 10.1136/pn-2024-004314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
The neuropsychiatrist Arnold Pick (1851-1924) lent his name to a disease, but in his centenary year, it is timely to ask whether this and the many other eponyms that populate neurology are more help than hindrance. Here, I survey some neurological eponyms, propose criteria for judging their helpfulness (and unhelpfulness) and consider their future prospects in our increasingly mechanistic, contemporary neurological practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D Warren
- Dementia Research Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
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30
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Zhang C, Wang X, Xing Y, Luan W, Jin T. Correlation between learning styles and attitudes toward interprofessional education among medical students: a cross-sectional study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:1010. [PMID: 39285371 PMCID: PMC11403840 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05710-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interprofessional teamwork improves patient care quality, safety, and health outcomes. Interprofessional education (IPE) is crucial in today's medical education to prepare students for the workforce as integral members of a collaborative team. The diversity of IPE learners indicates the importance of exploring the relationship between learning styles and attitudes toward IPE. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between learning styles and attitudes toward IPE. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2023 and September 2023 in 49 colleges located in the south-eastern region of China. A convenience sampling approach was employed, selecting 500 students majoring in Clinical Medicine and Nursing. The students completed an online questionnaire, which included sociodemographic characteristics, educational characteristics, interprofessional educational characteristics, learning styles, and the readiness for interprofessional learning scale, and Kolb's learning style inventory. Descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. RESULTS The most learners are diverger (93.2%), followed by assimilator (3.4%), accommodator (2.6%), and Converger (0.8%). The total score on the RIPLS was 69.70 (7.42), ranging from 48 to 88. A statistical relationship could be established between learning styles and attitudes toward IPE. CONCLUSION Abstract conceptualization and active experimentation learning modes and convergers were closely linked with positive attitudes toward IPE. Gender, age, and study stress can affect attitudes toward IPE. This study highlights the need for medical education curricula to integrate innovative teaching methods such as PBL, role-playing, scenario simulation and clinical early exposure to strengthen professional identity, and improve abilities related to interprofessional learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengrui Zhang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Xing
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Luan
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tao Jin
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, China.
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31
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Wang YX, Wang KJ. Who should be screened for colorectal cancer and how can it be prevented more effectively? World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:3741-3746. [PMID: 39350975 PMCID: PMC11438779 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i9.3741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
In this editorial, we comment on the article published by Agatsuma et al in a recent issue of the World J Gastroenterol (2024; 30: 1368-1376). We firmly concur with Agatsuma et al regarding the vital significance of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening as a public health strategy to diminish disease burden. Individuals exposed to risk factors for CRC, those with comorbid conditions, and those with limited health literacy should undergo screening. However, we believe that more regular screenings should be accompanied by a greater focus on primary prevention (PP) of CRC. CRC remains a significant global health challenge, and its incidence is strongly linked to age, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors. It is particularly noteworthy that the majority of CRC patients are diagnosed outside of established screening pathways and frequently at an advanced stage of the disease, and the majority of patients possess inadequate or even nonexistent knowledge regarding CRC, which significantly impacts the prognosis and imposes a substantial economic burden. This study revealed that CRC identified during hospital visits for comorbid conditions was typically diagnosed at an earlier stage than detected via symptomatic pathways. Remarkably, early incidental detection of CRC aligns closely with the timing of discovery through routine cancer screenings. This suggests that by adopting more inclusive screening protocols that combine opportunistic testing with traditional screening methods, health care systems can create a more comprehensive safety net for individuals at risk of CRC. However, before maximizing the health benefits of screening programs, it is essential to make additional efforts prior to screening, such as raising awareness via public education, risk assessment, and personalized recommendations, enhancing the knowledge and skills of health care professionals, optimizing the accessibility and convenience of screening processes, ensuring the quality and safety of screening services, strengthening follow-up and support systems, and providing policy support and financial investment. The establishment of a comprehensive screening system often requires substantial investment in human, material, and financial resources, which can be challenging to achieve in regions with limited health care resources. Strengthening PP strategies can reduce the disease burden by targeting the cause, representing a more cost-effective and impactful approach. Establishing a comprehensive cancer PP service platform that integrates authoritative public education on malignant tumor PP, individualized malignant tumor risk assessment, and self-health management assistance accessible to the entire population will significantly enhance the overall effectiveness of CRC PP strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Xiang Wang
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | - Kai-Juan Wang
- College of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Tumor Epidemiology of Henan Province, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
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Chakraborty C, Bhattacharya M. Evolution and mutational landscape of highly pathogenic avian influenza strain A(H5N1) in the current outbreak in the USA and global landscape. Virology 2024; 600:110246. [PMID: 39288609 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2024.110246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza strain A (H5N1) in the USA is a high concern. Here, we illustrated the evolution, divergence, transmission pattern, infection pattern, entropy diversity, nucleotide diversity, and mutational landscape of HPAI(H5N1). We depicted three phylogenetic trees, i.e., from three perspectives: considering the HPAI H5N1 genome of the current outbreak in the USA (n = 971), considering the HPAI H5N1 spared in different hosts (cattle, hunan, avian, and nonhuman primates) and using the global genome sequences (n = 3154). We found that the clade 2.3.4.4b was responsible for the present infection. We noted that the USA's divergence rate is 3.43e-3 subs per site per year, and the global divergence rate is 5.21e-3 subs per site per year. We reported significant nucleotide changes to illustrate the genome. Similarly, we observe several point mutations in some proteins, such as PB2, PA, HA, NA, and NS1. Among point mutations, some common mutations are noted in PB2 (E362G, M631L) and PA (L219I, K497R). However, elimination strategies should be a high priority for dairy farm workers, domestic cattle, and poultry birds to limit future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700126, India.
| | - Manojit Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore, 756020, Odisha, India
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Aloudiny WH, Alsaran FF, Alessa FM, Almoayad F, Fiala L. Examining Emotional and Physical Burden in Informal Saudi Caregivers: Links to Quality of Life and Social Support. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1851. [PMID: 39337192 PMCID: PMC11431032 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12181851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caregiver burden is an important issue for individuals who tend to be chronically ill, disabled or elderly family members. This burden affects caregivers around the world and can have a negative impact on their physical and mental health, ultimately reducing their quality of life. METHODS This study of informal adult caregivers in Saudi Arabia used a cross-sectional analytic design to explore the connections between caregiver burden, social support and quality of life. Data were collected using nonprobability convenience sampling through electronic questionnaires in Arabic. The Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview (ZBI-12), the Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3) and the SF-12 Health Survey (short form of 12 questions) were used to assess caregiver burden, social support and quality of life, respectively. The relationships between these variables were analysed, and the statistical significance of the findings was reported. RESULTS The study revealed a connection between caregiver burden and both social support and quality of life. Caregivers with moderate to high burdens often had poor social support (60.52%) and a lower quality of life (72.47%). A statistically significant negative correlation between caregiver burden and quality of life (p < 0.05) indicated that caregivers with a higher burden had a lower quality of life. Similarly, a statistically significant negative correlation was found between social support and caregiver burden (p < 0.05), suggesting that caregivers with more social support experienced a lower burden. CONCLUSIONS A higher caregiver burden is linked to a lower quality of life, especially when social support is inadequate. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to reduce caregiver burden by enhancing social support systems for caregivers and improving their quality of life. Recommendations include the development of community-based support programmes and policy changes to support informal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wejdan Homid Aloudiny
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (F.F.A.); (F.M.A.); (F.A.); (L.F.)
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Zhao M, Abdul Kadir NB, Abd Razak MA. The Relationship between Family Functioning, Emotional Intelligence, Loneliness, Social Support, and Depressive Symptoms among Undergraduate Students. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:819. [PMID: 39336034 PMCID: PMC11428799 DOI: 10.3390/bs14090819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition from adolescence to college is a significant developmental stage marked by challenges such as high academic pressure, changes in living environments, and social support systems. These challenges can lead to increased rates of depression among college students. This study investigates the relationships between family functioning, emotional intelligence, loneliness, social support, and depressive symptoms in Chinese college students. A cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected via questionnaires from undergraduate students at Xi'an Jiaotong University. Variables such as family functioning, emotional intelligence, loneliness, social support, and depressive symptoms were assessed. Statistical analyses, including correlation and hierarchical regression, were conducted to explore these relationships. The study found a diverse distribution of depressive symptoms among students, with significant gender differences indicating higher depression rates in females. No significant differences were observed across academic disciplines, grades, or between only children and non-only children. Family functioning, emotional intelligence, and social support were negatively correlated with depressive symptoms, while loneliness was positively correlated. Hierarchical regression analysis confirmed that social support significantly moderated the relationship between family functioning and depressive symptoms. Mediation analysis showed that emotional intelligence and loneliness mediated this relationship. The findings highlight the complex interplay between family dynamics, emotional capabilities, social connectedness, and mental health. Enhancing family functioning, emotional intelligence, and social support can effectively reduce depressive symptoms among college students. These results underscore the need for holistic interventions that address multiple aspects of students' social and emotional lives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nor Ba’yah Abdul Kadir
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia; (M.Z.); (M.A.A.R.)
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Vaughan E, Költő A. Drivers and Facilitators of HIV-Related Stigma in Healthcare Settings in Ireland. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04489-7. [PMID: 39266890 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04489-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
People living with HIV who experience stigma in healthcare settings are at increased risk for engaging in health avoidance behaviours, suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and viral non-suppression. HIV-related stigma erodes trust between patients and healthcare providers, thereby undermining both individual and public health. This study aimed to identify predictors of stigmatising attitudes, stigma practices, and fear of occupational transmission among healthcare workers in the Republic of Ireland. Data were collected from 295 healthcare workers using a standardised tool designed to measure HIV-related stigma. The outcomes examined were stigmatising attitudes, stigmatising practices (such as excessive infection precaution measures), and fear of occupational transmission. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to explore predictors at the individual, clinic, and policy levels. The results indicated that none of the models significantly predicted stigmatising attitudes. However, stigmatising practices were positively associated with never having worked in an HIV clinic, lack of knowledge or agreement with the concept of 'undetectable equals untransmittable' (U = U), and the presence of institutional policies, collectively accounting for 25.3% of the variance. Fear of occupational transmission was positively predicted by gender and lack of knowledge or agreement with U = U, explaining 23.8% of the variance. The findings highlight the critical role of U = U knowledge in reducing stigma-related behaviours and fears among healthcare workers. Enhancing knowledge and acceptance of U = U as part of comprehensive stigma interventions may help reduce the stigma experienced by people living with HIV in healthcare settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Vaughan
- The Health Promotion Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91TK33, Ireland.
| | - András Költő
- The Health Promotion Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91TK33, Ireland.
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Cornelis J, Christiaens W, de Meester C, Mistiaen P. Remote patient monitoring in patients with COVID-19 at home: literature review. JMIR Nurs 2024. [PMID: 39287362 DOI: 10.2196/44580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the pandemic healthcare providers implemented remote patient monitoring (RPM) for patients suffering from COVID-19. RPM is an interaction between healthcare professionals and patients who are in different locations, in which a certain number of patient's functioning parameters is assessed and followed up for a certain duration of time. By implementing RPM for these patients they obtained to reduce the strain on hospitals and primary care. OBJECTIVE With this literature review we aim at describing the characteristics of the RPM interventions, reporting on the patients with COVID-19 included in RPM, and providing an overview of outcome variables such as length of stay (LOS), hospital (re)admissions, and mortality. METHODS A combination of different searches in several database types (traditional databases, trial registers, daily (google) searches and daily Pubmed alerts) were run daily from March 2020 till December 2021. A search update for randomized clinical trials (RCT's) was done in April 2022. RESULTS The initial search yielded more than 4448 articles (not including daily searches). After deduplication and assessment for eligibility, 241 articles were retained describing 164 telemonitoring studies from 160 centres. None of the 164 studies covering 248,431 included patients reported on the presence of a randomized control group. Studies described a 'prehosp' group (96 studies) with patients who had a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis and for whom it was decided not to hospitalize them yet, but closely monitor them at home, or a 'posthosp' group (32 studies) with patients who were monitored at home after hospitalization for COVID-19; 34 studies described both groups, in 2 studies it was unclear. There is a large variety in number of emergency department (ED) visits (0-36% and 0-16%) and no convincing evidence that RPM leads to less or more ED-visits as well as hospital (re)admissions (0-30% and 0-22%) in prehosp and posthosp, respectively. Mortality was generally low, and there is weak to no evidence that RPM is associated with lower mortality. There is neither evidence that RPM shortens previous LOS. A literature update detected three small scale RCT's which could not demonstrate statistically significant differences in these outcomes. Most papers claim savings, however the scientific base for these claims is doubtful. The overall patient experiences with RPM were positive, as patients felt more reassured, although many patients declined RPM for several reasons (eg, technological embarrassment, digital literacy, etc.). CONCLUSIONS Based on these results, there is no convincing evidence that RPM in COVID-19 patients could avoid ED-visits or hospital (re)admissions, could shorten LOS or reduce mortality, but neither is there evidence that RPM has adverse outcomes. Further research should focus on developing, implementing, and evaluating an RPM framework. CLINICALTRIAL
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Affiliation(s)
- Justien Cornelis
- Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre, Kruidtuinlaan 55, Brussels, BE
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Salomez-Ihl C, Chapuis C, Albaladejo P, Picard M, Baron A, Garcia PP, Evain JN, Giai J, Barbado M, Moreau-Gaudry A, Bosson JL, Picard J, Bedouch P. [Construction of a methodology for clinical evaluation of medical devices using simulation tools and illustration through three studies]. ANNALES PHARMACEUTIQUES FRANÇAISES 2024:S0003-4509(24)00136-6. [PMID: 39276966 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2024.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION European regulations have recently moved towards more stringent requirements for demonstrating the safety and performance of medical devices (MDs). OBJECTIVE To apply an innovative testing method using medical simulation to the evaluation of three medical devices at different stages of their life cycle. METHOD The methodology for evaluating DMs using simulation is based on seven stages: definition of the context, training, construction of a scenario to test the DM, validation of the scenario, realization of the scenario, evaluation of the scenario by the players and validation and exploitation of the results. RESULTS Our evaluation methodology enabled us to assess three DMs at different stages of their development: a respiratory protection device at the initial stage (prototype definition), a respiratory protection mask (prototype optimization) and bottle adapters (post-marketing). CONCLUSION Simulation is a valuable tool for evaluating DM. The proposed methodology enables it to be used and adapted to different contexts. It responds to the specificities of clinical evaluation of this class of products, and helps to better anticipate certain risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cordélia Salomez-Ihl
- TIMC, UMR5525, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Department of Pharmacy, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France.
| | - Claire Chapuis
- Department of Pharmacy, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Pierre Albaladejo
- TIMC, UMR5525, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Marielle Picard
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Aline Baron
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Paz Pardo Garcia
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Noël Evain
- TIMC, UMR5525, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Joris Giai
- Inserm, CHU Grenoble Alpes, CIC1406, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Maud Barbado
- Inserm, CHU Grenoble Alpes, CIC1406, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | | | - Jean-Luc Bosson
- TIMC, UMR5525, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Inserm, CHU Grenoble Alpes, CIC1406, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Julien Picard
- TIMC, UMR5525, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, CHU Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Pierrick Bedouch
- TIMC, UMR5525, CNRS, UMR 5525, VetAgro Sup, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; Department of Pharmacy, CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France
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Xie C, Dong JZ, Lu BS, Yan PY, Zhao YS, Ding XY, Lv CE, Zheng X. Pharmacology and therapeutic potential of agarwood and agarwood tree leaves in periodontitis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1468393. [PMID: 39323637 PMCID: PMC11422227 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1468393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The main bioactive components of agarwood, derived from Aquilaria sinensis, include sesquiterpenes, 2-(2-phenethyl) chromone derivatives, aromatic compounds, and fatty acids, which typically exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune-modulating, hypoglycemic, and antitumor pharmacological effects in the form of essential oils. Agarwood tree leaves, rich in flavonoids, 2-(2-phenethyl) chromone compounds, and flavonoid compounds, also exhibit significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating effects. These properties are particularly relevant to the treatment of periodontitis, given that inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and immune dysregulation are key pathological mechanisms of the disease, highlighting the substantial potential of agarwood and agarwood tree leaves in this therapeutic area. However, the low solubility and poor bioavailability of essential oils present challenges that necessitate the development of improved active formulations. In this review, we will introduce the bioactive components, extraction methods, pharmacological actions, and clinical applications of agarwood and agarwood tree leaves, analyzing its prospects for the treatment of periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xie
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Jing-Zhe Dong
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Bing-Shuai Lu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Peng-Yao Yan
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yun-Shan Zhao
- Integrated Department, Hainan Stomatological Hospital, Haikou, China
| | - Xin-Yue Ding
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Cheng-En Lv
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Xu Zheng
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- School of Stomatology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
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Rajesh E, Subramaniam S, Pasupathy P, Suresh T, Gopichandran V. Lived experiences of medical students of online learning: lessons for adopting virtual learning in medical education. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:982. [PMID: 39256674 PMCID: PMC11384720 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05953-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID 19 lockdown created a shift in medical education from the traditional physical classroom to online learning. OBJECTIVES To explore the lived experiences of students in various years of medical education attending a medical college in Chennai, India. METHODS In this qualitative exploration of lived experiences we conducted 4 focus group discussions among students of the four years in the medical college with the help of a checklist. We recorded the interviews, transcribed them and performed a thematic content analysis. RESULTS There was a gendered impact of the lockdown on the online learning experiences with women students finding it challenging to attend classes balancing their gender roles of performing household chores. Online learning offered some advantages in the form of increased participation and engagement due to the partial anonymity. The greatest disadvantage of online learning was lack of clinical learning experience. The students resorted to fabricating case studies for discussion, which some students found useful and some commented that it can never replace real life clinical discussions. A generational gap between adoption of technology between the senior professors and the students hampered the online learning. Online assessments were challenging, and many students resorted to cheating in these exams. CONCLUSIONS Though online learning offers several advantages, it has serious limitations in offering the clinical learning experience. While planning adoption of online learning into routine medical education adequate time must be set aside for real life clinical exposure in addition to the online lectures and demonstrations for conceptual understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Priya Pasupathy
- Institute of Community Medicine, Madras Medical College, Chennai, India
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Mori Y, Isobe T, Ide Y, Uematsu S, Tomita T, Nagai Y, Iizumi T, Takei H, Sakurai H, Sakae T. Visualization of spatial dose distribution for effective radiation protection education in interventional radiology: obtaining high-accuracy spatial doses. Phys Eng Sci Med 2024:10.1007/s13246-024-01479-w. [PMID: 39249663 DOI: 10.1007/s13246-024-01479-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, eye lens exposure among radiation workers has become a serious concern in medical X-ray fluoroscopy and interventional radiology (IVR), highlighting the need for radiation protection education and training. This study presents a method that can maintain high accuracy when calculating spatial dose distributions obtained via Monte Carlo simulation and establishes another method to three-dimensionally visualize radiation using the obtained calculation results for contributing to effective radiation-protection education in X-ray fluoroscopy and IVR. The Monte Carlo particle and heavy ion transport code system (PHITS, Ver. 3.24) was used for calculating the spatial dose distribution generated by an angiography device. We determined the peak X-ray tube voltage and half value layer using Raysafe X2 to define the X-ray spectrum from the source and calculated the X-ray spectrum from the measured results using an approximation formula developed by Tucker et al. Further, we performed measurements using the "jungle-gym" method under the same conditions as the Monte Carlo calculations for verifying the accuracy of the latter. An optically stimulated luminescence dosimeter (nanoDot dosimeter) was used as the measuring instrument. In addition, we attempted to visualize radiation using ParaView (version 5.12.0-RC2) using the spatial dose distribution confirmed by the above calculations. A comparison of the measured and Monte Carlo calculated spatial dose distributions revealed that some areas showed large errors (12.3 and 24.2%) between the two values. These errors could be attributed to the scattering and absorption of X-rays caused by the jungle gym method, which led to uncertain measurements, and (2) the angular and energy dependencies of the nanoDot dosimetry. These two causes explain the errors in the actual values, and thus, the Monte Carlo calculations proposed in this study can be considered to have high-quality X-ray spectra and high accuracy. We successfully visualized the three-dimensional spatial dose distribution for direct and scattered X-rays separately using the obtained spatial dose distribution. We established a method to verify the accuracy of Monte Carlo calculations performed through the procedures considered in this study. Various three-dimensional spatial dose distributions were obtained with assured accuracy by applying the Monte Carlo calculation (e.g., changing the irradiation angle and adding a protective plate). Effective radiation-protection education can be realized by combining the present method with highly reliable software to visualize dose distributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaro Mori
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Master's Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Proton Medical Research Centre, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 2-1-1 Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8576, Japan
| | - Tomonori Isobe
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Master's Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Proton Medical Research Centre, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 2-1-1 Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8576, Japan.
| | - Yasuwo Ide
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Department of Radiological Technology, Tsukuba International University, 6-20-1 Manabe, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, 300-0051, Japan
| | - Shuto Uematsu
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Master's Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tomita
- Department of Radiology, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 2-1-1 Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8576, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Nagai
- Department of Radiological Technology, Tsukuba International University, 6-20-1 Manabe, Tsuchiura, Ibaraki, 300-0051, Japan
| | - Takashi Iizumi
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Proton Medical Research Centre, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 2-1-1 Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8576, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Takei
- Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institute for Quantum Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Sakurai
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Master's Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Proton Medical Research Centre, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 2-1-1 Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8576, Japan
| | - Takeji Sakae
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Doctoral Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, Degree Programs in Comprehensive Human Sciences, Master's Program in Medical Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Proton Medical Research Centre, University of Tsukuba Hospital, 2-1-1 Amakubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8576, Japan
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Wu YW, Lin TH, Yang YP, Wu WT, Tu CM, Huang HK, Chu CY, Huang CC, Chien SC, Jhuo SJ, Chen CP. Impact of shared decision-making in Taiwanese patients with atrial fibrillation eligible for novel oral anticoagulant therapy. J Formos Med Assoc 2024:S0929-6646(24)00404-2. [PMID: 39245609 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2024.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Shared decision-making (SDM) promotes patient awareness about medical conditions and treatments, facilitating patient involvement in care decisions. This two-stage multicenter study evaluated impacts of SDM in Taiwanese adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) eligible for novel oral anticoagulant (NOAC) therapy. METHODS Participants were NOAC-naïve (part I) or dabigatran-experienced (part II). During Stage I, part I participants (n = 124) completed a semi-structured survey (understanding evaluation sections only) before and after viewing SDM materials on stroke prevention for AF. Surveys collected data on anxiety about AF, confidence in healthcare professionals, usefulness of the SDM materials, and perception of different NOACs. During Stage II, part I participants after being prescribed NOACs, and part II participants completed another survey to compare impacts of SDM. RESULTS During Stage I, dabigatran was the preferred NOAC after viewing the SDM materials among 90% of part I participants. During Stage II, both part I (n = 87) and part II participants (n = 104) completed another survey. Fewer part I participants were anxious about AF (p < 0.01), and more had confidence in healthcare professionals (p < 0.01) after viewing SDM materials than before. Most part I participants (≥90%) rated the SDM materials as "very helpful". In Stage II, participants viewing SDM before initiating dabigatran had lower anxiety (part I, 43%; part II, 53%; p < 0.01) and a higher trust (part I, 92%; part II, 84%; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION In conclusion, SDM reduced anxiety and improved trust in healthcare professionals among NOAC-naïve participants with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Wen Wu
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan; School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| | - Tsung-Hsien Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Faculty of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Yuan-Po Yang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan; PhD Program in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University and National Health Research Institutes, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine, National Health Research Institutes, Zhunan Miaoli, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Tsung Wu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Ming Tu
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
| | - Hung-Kain Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.
| | - Chun-Yuan Chu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Faculty of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Chi-Cheng Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
| | - Szu-Chi Chien
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Jie Jhuo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Faculty of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Pei Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan; Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Sierra-Heredia C, Tayyar E, Bozorgi Y, Thakore P, Hagos S, Carrillo R, Machado S, Peterson S, Goldenberg S, Wiedmeyer ML, Lavergne MR. Growing inequities by immigration group among older adults: population-based analysis of access to primary care and return to in-person visits during the COVID-19 pandemic in British Columbia, Canada. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:332. [PMID: 39243016 PMCID: PMC11378608 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02530-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic drove a rapid and widespread shift to virtual care, followed by a gradual return to in-person visits. Virtual visits may offer more convenient access to care for some, but others may experience challenges accessing care virtually, and some medical needs must be met in-person. Experiences of the shift to virtual care and benefits of in-person care may vary by immigration experience (immigration status and duration), official language level, and age. We examined use of virtual care and return to in-person visits in the Canadian province of British Columbia (BC), comparing patterns by age and across immigration groups, including length of time in Canada and language level (official languages English and French) at time of arrival. METHODS We used linked administrative health and immigration data to examine total primary care visits (virtual or in-person) and return to in-person visits during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019/20-2021/2) in BC. We examined the proportion of people with any primary care visits and with any in-person visits within each year as measures of access to primary care. We estimated the odds of any primary care visits and any in-person visits by immigration group and official language level assessed prior to arrival: non-immigrants, long-term immigrants, recent immigrants (< 5 years) with high assessed official language level and recent immigrants (< 5 years) with low assessed official language level (assessed prior to arrival), stratified by age. RESULTS In general, changes in access to primary care (odds of any visits and odds of any in-person visits) were similar across immigration groups over the study period. However, we observed substantial disparities in access to primary care by immigration group among people aged 60 + , particularly in recent immigrants with low official language level (0.42, 0.40-0.45). These disparities grew wider over the course of the pandemic. CONCLUSION Though among younger adults changes in access to primary care between 2019-2021 were similar across immigration groups, we observed significant and growing inequities among older adults, with particularly limited access among adults who immigrated recently and with low assessed official language level. Targeted interventions to ensure acceptable, accessible care for older immigrants are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elmira Tayyar
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yasmin Bozorgi
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Padmini Thakore
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Selamawit Hagos
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ruth Carrillo
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Stefanie Machado
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sandra Peterson
- Centre for Health Services and Policy Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shira Goldenberg
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Mei-Ling Wiedmeyer
- Centre for Gender &, Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - M Ruth Lavergne
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Ayaz B, Dozois G, Baumann AL, Fuseini A, Nelson S. Perpetrators of gender-based workplace violence amongst nurses and physicians-A scoping review of the literature. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003646. [PMID: 39240832 PMCID: PMC11379169 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/08/2024]
Abstract
In healthcare settings worldwide, workplace violence (WPV) has been extensively studied. However, significantly less is known about gender-based WPV and the characteristics of perpetrators. We conducted a comprehensive scoping review on Type II (directed by consumers) and Type III (perpetuated by healthcare workers) gender based-WPV among nurses and physicians globally. For the review, we followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR). The protocol for the comprehensive review was registered on the Open Science Framework on January 14, 2022, at https://osf.io/t4pfb/. A systematic search in five health and social science databases yielded 178 relevant studies that indicated types of perpetrators, with only 34 providing descriptive data for perpetrators' gender. Across both types of WPV, men (65.1%) were more frequently responsible for perpetuating WPV compared to women (28.2%) and both genders (6.7%). Type II WPV, demonstrated a higher incidence of violence against women; linked to the gendered roles, stereotypes, and societal expectations that allocate specific responsibilities based on gender. Type III WPV was further categorized into Type III-A (horizontal) and Type III-B (vertical). With Type III WPV, gendered power structures and stereotypes contributed to a permissive environment for violence by men and women that victimized more women. These revelations emphasize the pressing need for gender-sensitive strategies for addressing WPV within the healthcare sector. Policymakers must prioritize the security of healthcare workers, especially women, through reforms and zero-tolerance policies. Promoting gender equality and empowerment within the workforce and leadership is pivotal. Additionally, creating a culture of inclusivity, support, and respect, led by senior leadership, acknowledging WPV as a structural issue and enabling an open dialogue across all levels are essential for combating this pervasive problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basnama Ayaz
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Andrea L Baumann
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam Fuseini
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sioban Nelson
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Al-Diery T, Hejazi T, Al-Qahtani N, ElHajj M, Rachid O, Jaam M. Evaluating the use of virtual simulation training to support pharmacy students' competency development in conducting dispensing tasks. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2024; 16:102199. [PMID: 39241581 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2024.102199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incorporation of digital health technologies in undergraduate teaching, such as the MyDispense program, provides a simulated opportunity to support students' competency development in dispensing tasks. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the impact of using MyDispense, an online pharmacy simulation platform, on pharmacy students' self-reported reaction, learning, and accuracy in performing dispensing tasks. METHODOLOGY 16 MyDispense cases simulating real-practice scenarios from prescription dispensing and verification to patient counseling were created for 55 professional year 1 pharmacy students as part of a professional skills course. A pre-post survey, nestled on Kirkpatrick's Model of Training Evaluation, was conducted on participants in the cohort to evaluate how the incorporation of MyDispense supported their development of dispensing tasks. A virtual formative assessment was also done using MyDispense to compare students' self-reported accuracy with faculty assessment scores to evaluate how MyDispense can support students' knowledge and metacognitive abilities in dispensing. RESULTS The study showed an increase in students' confidence after using MyDispense, which led to an increase in the "learning" level of Kirkpatrick's Model. However, small changes were observed in other levels and sublevels of Kirkpatrick's Model. A notable discrepancy was observed between students' self-assessment scores and faculty assessment scores, with students overestimating their performances. Correlation analysis showed a weak relationship between students' self-assessment scores and the learning level of Kirkpatrick's Model. CONCLUSION This study highlights the positive impact of MyDispense on pharmacy students' confidence in dispensing. However, virtual simulation training may be best incorporated when students have exposure to experiential training placements, to maximize the learning outcomes and knowledge in dispensing processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarik Al-Diery
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Section, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Taimaa Hejazi
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Section, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Najlaa Al-Qahtani
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Section, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Maguy ElHajj
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Section, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ousama Rachid
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Section, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Myriam Jaam
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Section, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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Ghabisha S, Ahmed F, Almohtadi AM, Alghazali KA, Badheeb M, Al-Wageeh S. Demographic, Clinical, Radiological, and Surgical Outcome of Patients with Intestinal Tuberculosis: A Single-Center Retrospective Study. Res Rep Trop Med 2024; 15:79-90. [PMID: 39253062 PMCID: PMC11382657 DOI: 10.2147/rrtm.s465571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal tuberculosis (iTB) represents a potentially underrecognized clinical entity with limited clinical and radiological differentiating features. This study aims to assess the patterns of iTB clinical and radiological findings, along with the treatment approaches and the overall outcome. Methods This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients with histopathologically confirmed iTB who presented with acute abdomen and were surgically managed between September 2005 and October 2023. Clinical and sociodemographic variables, imaging features, surgical treatments, and overall outcomes were retrospectively analyzed. Results 96 patients with iTB were included, with a mean age of 36.1 ± 11.5 years and a relatively proportionate gender distribution. Abdominal pain was the most common presenting symptom (45.8%). The radiological features varied by the modality. Plain imaging showed non-specific findings, while ultrasonography showed loculated ascites (25%), and lymphadenopathy (22%). In computed tomography scans, multi-segmental symmetric intestinal thickening (53.1%) was the most prevalent finding. The most commonly performed surgical procedure was adhesiolysis (29.2%), with the ileocecal junction being the most commonly involved structure (39.6%). Histopathological examination of all the tissue biopsies revealed epithelioid granulomas. Postoperative complications occurred in 19 patients (19.8%), with surgical site infection being the most common complication (10.4%). Conclusion Intestinal obstruction is an underrecognized manifestation of tuberculosis, particularly in endemic regions. The non-specific clinical presentation, coupled with the limited utility of laboratory and radiological tests, often leads to delayed recognition and treatment. Maintaining a high index of suspicion is essential, especially in younger patients, inhabitants of endemic areas, or those with laboratory findings indicative of chronic inflammation. Prompt recognition is crucial to ensure the timely initiation of anti-tuberculosis therapy and to optimize patient outcomes through appropriate follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Ghabisha
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Faisal Ahmed
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Abdullatif Mothanna Almohtadi
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
- Department of Radiology, Ibb Scan Center, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Khairalah Abdulkarem Alghazali
- Department of Radiology, Ibb Scan Center, Ibb, Yemen
- Department of Medical Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Jiblah University for Medical and Health Sciences, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Mohamed Badheeb
- Internal Medicine, Yale New-Haven Health/Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, CT, USA
| | - Saleh Al-Wageeh
- Department of General Surgery, School of Medicine, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
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Lee KY, Kathiravel Y, Khullar S. Unilateral peroneal neuropathy in a patient following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Postgrad Med 2024:1-6. [PMID: 39193863 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2024.2398413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Peroneal neuropathy, characterized by the occurrence of a foot drop, can develop due to a variety of factors, such as tumors, trauma, or metabolic conditions, making it one of the most prevalent peripheral neuropathies of the lower limbs. This condition is becoming more identifiable among patients who have undergone substantial weight reduction through bariatric surgery. The condition may present with symptoms like pain, sporadic paresthesia, and functional restrictions, primarily linked to foot drop. This case study explores an episode of acute foot drop in a patient who underwent a sleeve gastrectomy, leading to substantial weight loss.The patient, a middle-aged woman with a history of obesity, underwent sleeve gastrectomy and achieved normal body mass index (BMI) within a year. Eleven months post-surgery, she experienced a right-sided foot drop following a minor knee injury. Detailed history taking revealed noncompliance with vitamin supplementation, recurrent vomiting episodes, and a recent diagnosis of pancreatic insufficiency. Peripheral neuropathy, particularly peroneal nerve involvement, was confirmed through nerve conduction studies and radiological imaging. The mechanism of injury was attributed to rapid weight loss, potential nutrient deficiencies, and possible traction to the nerve.This case underscores the importance of early identification, comprehensive nutritional assessment, and timely intervention in managing neurological complications of post-bariatric surgery. Increased awareness among healthcare providers, particularly musculoskeletal specialists, is crucial as the prevalence of bariatric surgery continues to grow, ensuring optimal care for patients in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwee-Yum Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
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Yousuf AAAA, Stewart DC, Kane T, Soltani A, Al-Khal A, Sethi A. Health professionals' views and experiences of breaking bad news in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: a scoping review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1440867. [PMID: 39290389 PMCID: PMC11407430 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1440867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Breaking bad news is a critical yet challenging aspect of healthcare that requires effective communication skills, empathy, and cultural sensitivity. Health professionals in the World Health Organization's (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Region face unique cultural and social factors distinct from other parts of the world. This scoping review aims to comprehensively explore the peer-reviewed literature on the health professionals' experiences in delivering bad news within the WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region. Methods This scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Brigg Institute's scoping review methodology and reported utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A search using a combination of keywords and MeSH terms related to "breaking bad news" and "health professionals" was performed in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, EBSCO, ERIC via Embase, and Dar Almandumah (Arabic) databases. Common themes were synthesized from studies conducted in the WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region. Results Out of 4,883 studies initially identified in the databases, 24 studies met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 4,710 participants, including physicians, nurses, and residents. The studies were published between 2006 and 2022, predominantly from Iran (n = 12). The majority employed a cross-sectional design (n = 21) or mixed methods (n = 3), with a notable absence of qualitative studies. No studies used theoretical frameworks. More than half of the studies (n = 14) reported that participants had positive attitudes toward breaking bad news. This positivity was evident in their willingness to share bad news, perceived possession of adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, having received training, awareness of accepted approaches, and adherence to protocols. The lack of training and limited awareness of established protocols like SPIKES, ABCDE, and BREAKS for breaking bad news were major concerns among participants. Conclusion The scoping review reveals both positive and negative experiences of breaking bad news by health professionals in the WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region. Most studies highlight the need for culturally sensitive targeted education and training programs on breaking bad news. Further research, particularly using qualitative methodologies and theoretical frameworks is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tanya Kane
- QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Abdullatif Al-Khal
- QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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Domingo JL. A review of the scientific literature on experimental toxicity studies of COVID-19 vaccines, with special attention to publications in toxicology journals. Arch Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s00204-024-03854-8. [PMID: 39225797 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03854-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Since the reports of the first cases of COVID-19, in less than 5 years, a huge number of documents regarding that disease and the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for the infection, have been published. The tremendous number of scientific documents covers many topics on different issues directly related to COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2. The number of articles-including reviews-reporting adverse/side effects of the approved COVID-19 vaccines is considerable. A wide range of adverse/side effects have been reported in humans after COVID-19 vaccination: thrombotic events/thrombocytopenia, myocarditis/pericarditis, cutaneous reactions, immune-mediated effects, psychiatric adverse events, systemic lupus erythematosus, reproductive toxicity, and other miscellaneous adverse effects. In contrast, information on nonclinical studies conducted to assess the potential toxicity/adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccines in laboratory animals, is comparatively very scarce. The present review was aimed at revising the scientific literature regarding the studies in laboratory animals on the toxic/adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines. In addition, the investigations reported in those specific toxicology journals with the highest impact factors have been examined one by one. The results of the present review indicate that most nonclinical/experimental studies on the adverse/toxic effects of the COVID-19 vaccines and/or potential candidates showed-in general terms-a good safety profile. Only in some animal studies were certain adverse effects found. However, a rather surprising result has been the limited number of available (in the databases PubMed and Scopus) nonclinical studies performed by the companies that have been the largest manufacturers of mRNA vaccines in the world. It is assumed that these studies have been conducted. However, they have not been published in scientific journals, which does not allow the judgment of the international scientific community, including toxicologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose L Domingo
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorens 21, 43201, Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
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AlShareef SM, AlWabel AA. A Comparison of the Convenience, Quality of Interaction, and Satisfaction of Virtual and In-Person Healthcare Consultations: A Nationwide Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:5203. [PMID: 39274414 PMCID: PMC11396755 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13175203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: There are few direct comparisons of service utilization and patient-reported outcomes in patients attending medical consultations in person or virtually. This was a prospective, cross-sectional study of adults engaging with a healthcare practitioner via virtual or in-person consultations. Methods: Participants were recruited in person by convenience sampling between November 2023 and January 2024 across Saudi Arabia, and data were gathered on (i) basic demographic and consultation information and (ii) convenience, quality of interaction, and satisfaction with their consultations. Results: Of 3196 individuals who completed the survey, 28.7% had attended their most recent healthcare interaction virtually and 71.3% had attended in person. Participants attending virtual consultations were more likely to live rurally (69.0% vs. 21.9% for in-person consultations; p < 0.001). Virtual appointments were more common for primary care and diabetes/endocrinology but not surgical specialties (p < 0.001), and private apps and hospitals more frequently provided virtual appointments. Conclusions: Overall, patients found virtual consultations to be significantly more convenient, prompt, private, and well communicated than in-person appointments, translating into extremely high satisfaction (97.4% overall vs. 84.0% for in-person consultations; p < 0.001). This study provides population-level data on the current prevalence of telehealth use in Saudi Arabia. Further prospective research demonstrating the clinical noninferiority of telemedicine could help promote further uptake in specialties such as surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Mohammed AlShareef
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), P.O. Box 7544, Riyadh 13317, Saudi Arabia
- Seha Virtual Hospital, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 12382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Abdulaziz AlWabel
- Seha Virtual Hospital, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 12382, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, P.O. Box 7805, Riyadh 11472, Saudi Arabia
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Alanazi AA. Tinnitus Prevalence, Associated Characteristics, and Treatment Patterns among Adults in Saudi Arabia. Audiol Res 2024; 14:760-777. [PMID: 39311217 PMCID: PMC11417728 DOI: 10.3390/audiolres14050064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Tinnitus affects millions of people around the world and causes significant negative impacts on their quality of life (QoL). Tinnitus is rarely examined in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of tinnitus among adults, explore their experience with tinnitus, investigate the impact of tinnitus on their QoL, and discover their tinnitus management methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was performed utilizing a non-probability purposive sampling technique and a face-to-face in-person administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and a chi-square test were used to assess the data and find any correlation between the variables. Out of 4860 adults, 320 (males: n = 172; females: n = 148; age range = 18-90 years) had tinnitus, mainly described as a daily, gradual, continuous, whistling, and ringing tinnitus in both ears. Tinnitus prevalence was estimated at 6.54% with a slight predominance in males (6.9%) compared with females (6.2%). Most of the participants were unaware of the cause of their tinnitus. The modal value of the severity of tinnitus signals was severe for both genders. The modal value of the impact of tinnitus on the QoL was moderate for males and severe for females. Sleep, social activities, quiet settings, and concentration were largely affected by tinnitus. Significant associations (p < 0.05) between the impact of tinnitus on the QoL and risk factors, such as gender, age, hearing loss, and hyperacusis were determined. Also, the impact of tinnitus on the QoL was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with the duration of complaints and the severity of tinnitus signals. Approximately, 61% of the participants did not use any tinnitus treatment, while the remaining participants usually used hearing aids, medications, and counseling to manage their tinnitus. By increasing awareness, establishing standard practice, developing guidelines for managing tinnitus, expanding access to suitable interventions, and carrying out additional research, adults living with tinnitus in Saudi Arabia will have better support and, ultimately, an enhancement of their overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad A. Alanazi
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia;
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11481, Saudi Arabia
- Audiology Clinic, ENT Division, Department of Surgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
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