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Zhang Z. Survey and analysis on the resource situation of primary health care institutions in rural China. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1394527. [PMID: 38919917 PMCID: PMC11196621 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1394527] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background China's rural population is immense, and to ensure the well-being of rural residents through healthcare services, it is essential to analyze the resources of rural grassroots healthcare institutions in China. The objective is to examine the discrepancies and deficiencies in resources between rural grassroots healthcare institutions and the national average, providing a basis for future improvements and supplementation of rural healthcare resources. Methodology The study analyzed data from 2020 to 2022 on the number of healthcare establishments, the capacity of hospital beds, the number of healthcare professionals, and the number of physicians in both rural and national settings. Additionally, it examined the medical service conditions and ratios of township health centers in rural areas to assess the resource gap between rural areas and the national average. Results Healthcare establishments: On average, there were 2.2 fewer healthcare institutions per 10,000 persons in rural areas compared to the national average over three years. Hospital beds: On average, there were approximately 36 fewer hospital beds per 10,000 persons in rural areas compared to the national average over three years. Healthcare professionals and physicians: On average, there were about 48 fewer healthcare technical personnel and 10 fewer practicing (including assistant) physicians per 10,000 persons in rural areas compared to the national average over three years. Conclusion Compared to the national average, there are significant discrepancies and deficiencies in grassroots healthcare resources in rural China. This underscores the necessity of increasing funding to progressively enhance the number of healthcare institutions in rural areas, expand the number of healthcare personnel, and elevate medical standards to better align with national benchmarks. Improving rural healthcare resources will strategically equip these institutions to cater to rural communities and effectively handle public health emergencies. Ensuring that the rural population in China has equal access to healthcare services as the rest of the country is crucial for promoting the well-being of rural residents and achieving health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoting Zhang
- School of Public Policy and Management, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, China
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Olavarría L, Caramelli P, Lema J, de Andrade CB, Pinto A, Azevedo LVDS, Thumala D, Vieira MCS, Rossetti AP, Generoso AB, Carmona KC, Sepúlveda-Loyola W, Pinto LAC, Barbosa MT, Slachevsky A. Impact of the Pandemic Time on the Mental Health of People with Dementia and Their Family Caregivers in Brazil and Chile: One-Year Follow-Up. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 98:691-698. [PMID: 38427488 PMCID: PMC11175387 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Background Previous studies reported the negative impact of social isolation on mental health in people with dementia (PwD) and their caregivers, butlongitudinal studies seem scarcer. Objective To describe a one-year follow-up impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PwD and their caregivers in both Brazil and Chile. Methods This study analyzed the impact of the pandemic on the psychological and physical health of PwD and their family caregivers after one year of follow-up in three outpatient clinics in Brazil (n = 68) and Chile (n = 61). Results In both countries, PwD reduced their functional capacity after one year of follow-up (p = 0.017 and p = 0.009; respectively) and caregivers reported worse physical and mental health (p = 0.028 and p = 0.039). Only in Chile, caregivers reported more sadness associated with care (p = 0.001), and reduced time sleeping (p = 0.07). Conclusions In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic appears to have had a long-lasting impact on PwD and their caregivers. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the inherent progression of dementia itself may also influence changes observed over a year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loreto Olavarría
- Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
- Neuropsychology and Clinical Neuroscience Laboratory (LANNEC), Physiopathology Department - Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Neuroscience and East Neuroscience Departments, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile
- Latin American Brain Health Institute (BrainLat), Universidad Adolfo Ibanez, Santiago, Chile
| | - Paulo Caramelli
- Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology Research Group, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - José Lema
- Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
| | - Caíssa Bezerra de Andrade
- Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology Research Group, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - Alejandra Pinto
- Memory and Neuropsychiatric Center (CMYN), Memory Unit - Neurology Department, Hospital del Salvador and Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Lílian Viana dos Santos Azevedo
- Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology Research Group, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - Daniela Thumala
- Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Chile
| | | | | | - Alana Barroso Generoso
- Geriatric Medicine, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - Karoline Carvalho Carmona
- Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology Research Group, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | | | | | - Maira Tonidandel Barbosa
- Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology Research Group, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
- Geriatric Medicine, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil
| | - Andrea Slachevsky
- Geroscience Center for Brain Health and Metabolism (GERO), Santiago, Chile
- Neuropsychology and Clinical Neuroscience Laboratory (LANNEC), Physiopathology Department - Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBM), Neuroscience and East Neuroscience Departments, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Memory and Neuropsychiatric Center (CMYN), Memory Unit - Neurology Department, Hospital del Salvador and Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Servicio de Neurología, Departamento de Medicina, Clínica Alemana-Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
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Njuguna C, Vandi M, Singh T, Njeru I, Githuku J, Gachari W, Musoke R, Caulker V, Bunting-Graden J, Mahar M, Brown SM, Bah MA, Idriss MB, Talisuna A, Chamla D, Yoti Z, Sreedharan R, Suryantoro L, Gueye AS, Chungong S. Improving global health security through implementation of the National Action Plan for Health Security in Sierra Leone, 2018-2021: lessons from the field. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2178. [PMID: 37932694 PMCID: PMC10629060 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17103-7] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND All countries are required to implement International Health Regulations (IHR) through development and implementation of multi-year National Action Plans for Health Security (NAPHS). IHR implementation requires annual operational planning which involves several tools such as NAPHS, State Party Annual Report (SPAR), Joint External Evaluation (JEE) and WHO IHR Benchmarks tool. Sierra Leone has successfully improved IHR capacities across the years through successful annual operational planning using the above tools. We conducted a study to document and share the country's unique approach to implementation of NAPHS. METHODS This was an observational study where the process of implementing and monitoring NAPHS in Sierra Leone was observed at the national level from 2018 to 2021. Data was obtained through review and analysis of NAPHS annual operational plans, quarterly review reports and annual IHR assessment reports. Available data was supplemented by information from key informants. Qualitative data was captured as notes and analysed for various themes while quantitative data was analyzed mainly for means and proportions. RESULTS The overall national IHR Joint External Evaluation self-assessment score for human health improved from 44% in 2018 to 51% in 2019 and 57% in 2020. The score for the animal sector improved from 32% in 2018 to 43% in 2019 and 52% in 2020. A new JEE tool with new indicators was used in 2021 and the score for both human and animal sectors declined slightly to 51%. Key enablers of success included strong political commitment, whole-of-government approach, annual assessments using JEE tool, annual operational planning using WHO IHR Benchmarks tool and real time online monitoring of progress. Key challenges included disruption created by COVID-19 response, poor health infrastructure, low funding and inadequate health workforce. CONCLUSION IHR annual operational planning and implementation using evidence-based data and tools can facilitate strengthening of IHR capacity and should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Njuguna
- WHO Country Office for Sierra Leone, 21 A & B Riverside Drive, off King Harman Road, Brookfield, Freetown, Sierra Leone.
| | - Mohamed Vandi
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | - Ian Njeru
- WHO Country Office for Sierra Leone, 21 A & B Riverside Drive, off King Harman Road, Brookfield, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Jane Githuku
- WHO Country Office for Sierra Leone, 21 A & B Riverside Drive, off King Harman Road, Brookfield, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Wilson Gachari
- WHO Country Office for Sierra Leone, 21 A & B Riverside Drive, off King Harman Road, Brookfield, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Robert Musoke
- WHO Country Office for Sierra Leone, 21 A & B Riverside Drive, off King Harman Road, Brookfield, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Victor Caulker
- WHO Country Office for Sierra Leone, 21 A & B Riverside Drive, off King Harman Road, Brookfield, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | | | | | | | - Mo-Bashir Idriss
- Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | | | - Dick Chamla
- WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
| | - Zabulon Yoti
- WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
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Lyu S, Qian C, McIntyre A, Lee CH. One Pandemic, Two Solutions: Comparing the U.S.-China Response and Health Priorities to COVID-19 from the Perspective of "Two Types of Control". Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1848. [PMID: 37444682 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11131848] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
After three years of global rampage, the COVID-19 epidemic, the most serious infectious disease to occur worldwide since the 1918 influenza pandemic, is nearing its end. From the global experience, medical control and social control are the two main dimensions in the prevention and control of COVID-19. From the perspective of "two types of control", namely medical control and social control, this paper finds that the political system, economic structure, and cultural values of the United States greatly limit the government's ability to impose social control, forcing it to adopt medical control to fight the virus in a single dimension. In contrast, China's political system, economic structure, and cultural values allow its government to adopt stringent, extensive, and frequent social control, as well as medical control to fight the virus. This approach departs from the traditional pathway of fighting the epidemic, i.e., "infection-treatment-immunization", thereby outpacing the evolution of the virus and controlling its spread more rapidly. This finding helps explain why the Chinese government adopted a strict "zeroing" and "dynamic zeroing" policy during the first three years, at the cost of enormous economic, social, and even political legitimacy. It was not until late 2022, when the Omicron variant with the waning virulence became prevalent, that China chose to "coexist" with the virus, thus avoiding a massive epidemic-related death. While the United States adopted a pulsed-style strategy at the beginning of the epidemic, i.e., "relaxation-suppression-relaxation-suppression", and began to "coexist" with the virus in just one year, resulting in a large number of excess deaths associated with the epidemic. The study contributes to explaining the difference in the interplay between public health priorities and COVID-19 response strategies in China and the United States, based on the specific public health context and the perspective of "medical control" and "social control".
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Affiliation(s)
- Shupeng Lyu
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Chen Qian
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Aaron McIntyre
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Ching-Hung Lee
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
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Mensah IK, Khan MK, Liang J, Zhu N, Lin LW, Mwakapesa DS. The moderating influence of perceived government information transparency on COVID-19 pandemic information adoption on social media systems. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1172094. [PMID: 37404584 PMCID: PMC10315676 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1172094] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Social media systems are instrumental in the dissemination of timely COVID-19 pandemic information to the general population and contribute to the fight against the pandemic and waves of disinformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study uses the information adoption model (IAM) as the theoretical framework to examine the moderating influence of perceived government information transparency on the adoption of COVID-19 pandemic information on social media systems from the Ghanaian perspective. Government information transparency regarding the pandemic is crucial since any lack of transparency can negatively affect the global response to the pandemic by destroying trust (in government and public health authorities/institutions), intensifying fears, and causing destructive behaviors. Methods It applies a convenient sampling technique to collect the responses from 516 participants by using self-administrated questionnaires. The data analysis was computed and analyzed with SPSS-22. The following statistical tests were conducted to test the hypotheses: descriptive statistics, scale reliability test, Pearson bivariate correlation, multiple linear regressions, hierarchical regression, and slope analysis. Results The results indicate that information quality, information credibility, and information usefulness are significant drivers of COVID-19 pandemic information adoption on social media systems. Furthermore, the perceived government information transparency positively moderates the influence of information quality, information credibility, and information usefulness on the adoption of COVID-19 pandemic information on social media systems. Conclusion The theoretical and managerial implications of these findings suggest the utilization of social media systems as an effective tool to support the continued fight against the current COVID-19 pandemic and its future role in national and global public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Kofi Mensah
- Business Administration, Fujian Jiangxia University, New University Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Muhammad Khalil Khan
- Department of Journalism and Communication, School of Media and Law, NingboTech University, Ningbo, China
| | - Juan Liang
- Business Administration, Fujian Jiangxia University, New University Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Nan Zhu
- Business Administration, Fujian Jiangxia University, New University Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Li-Wei Lin
- Business Administration, Fujian Jiangxia University, New University Campus, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Deborah Simon Mwakapesa
- School of Civil and Surveying Engineering, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
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Zoepfl M, Dwivedi R, Kim SB, McVoy MA, Pomin VH. Antiviral activity of marine sulfated glycans against pathogenic human coronaviruses. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4804. [PMID: 36959228 PMCID: PMC10035982 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31722-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Great interest exists towards the discovery and development of broad-spectrum antivirals. This occurs due to the frequent emergence of new viruses which can also eventually lead to pandemics. A reasonable and efficient strategy to develop new broad-spectrum antivirals relies on targeting a common molecular player of various viruses. Heparan sulfate is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan present on the surface of cells which plays a key role as co-receptor in many virus infections. In previous work, marine sulfated glycans (MSGs) were identified as having antiviral activities. Their mechanism of action relies primarily on competitive inhibition of virion binding to heparan sulfate, preventing virus attachment to the cell surface prior to entry. In the current work we used pseudotyped lentivirus particles to investigate in a comparative fashion the inhibitory properties of five structurally defined MSGs against SARS-CoV-1, SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and influenza A virus (IAV). MSGs include the disaccharide-repeating sulfated galactan from the red alga Botryocladia occidentalis, the tetrasaccharide-repeating sulfated fucans from the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus and from the sea cucumber Isostichopus badionotus, and the two marine fucosylated chondroitin sulfates from the sea cucumbers I. badionotus and Pentacta pygmaea. Results indicate specificity of action against SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2. Curiously, the MSGs showed decreased inhibitory potencies against MERS-CoV and negligible action against IAV. Among the five MSGs, the two sulfated fucans here studied deserve further attention since they have the lowest anticoagulant effects but still present potent and selective antiviral properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Zoepfl
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA
| | - Rohini Dwivedi
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
| | - Seon Beom Kim
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Michael A McVoy
- Department of Pediatrics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
| | - Vitor H Pomin
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA.
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Kalok A, Razak Dali W, Sharip S, Abdullah B, Kamarudin M, Dasrilsyah RA, Abdul Rahman R, Kamisan Atan I. Maternal COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among Malaysian pregnant women: A multicenter cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1092724. [PMID: 36908400 PMCID: PMC9992805 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1092724] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused a global pandemic that resulted in devastating health, economic and social disruption. Pregnant mothers are susceptible to COVID-19 complications due to physiological and immunity changes in pregnancy. We aimed to assess the maternal vaccine acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine. Methods A multi-center study across four teaching hospitals in the Klang Valley, Malaysia was conducted between September 2021 and May 2022. A survey was conducted using a self-administered electronic questionnaire. The survey instruments included; (1) maternal perception and attitude toward COVID-19 vaccination, (2) COVID-19 pregnancy-related anxiety, and 3) generalized anxiety disorder. Results The response rate was 96.6%, with a final number for analysis of 1,272. The majority of our women were Malays (89.5%), with a mean age (standard deviation, SD) of 32.2 (4.6). The maternal vaccine acceptance in our study was 77.1%. Household income (p < 0.001), employment status (p = 0.011), and health sector worker (p = 0.001) were independent predictors of maternal willingness to be vaccinated. COVID-19 infection to self or among social contact and greater COVID-19 pregnancy-related anxiety were associated with increased odds of accepting the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Women who rely on the internet and social media as a source of vaccine information were more likely to be receptive to vaccination (adjusted odd ratio, AOR 1.63; 95% CI 1.14-2.33). Strong correlations were observed between maternal vaccine acceptance and the positive perception of (1) vaccine information (p < 0.001), (2) protective effects of vaccine (p < 0.001), and (3) getting vaccinated as a societal responsibility (p < 0.001). Discussion The high maternal vaccine acceptance rate among urban pregnant women in Malaysia is most likely related to their high socio-economic status. Responsible use of the internet and social media, alongside appropriate counseling by health professionals, is essential in reducing vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Kalok
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wira Razak Dali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shalisah Sharip
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Bahiyah Abdullah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Selangor, Malaysia
- Maternofetal and Embryo (MatE) Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Maherah Kamarudin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rima Anggrena Dasrilsyah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rahana Abdul Rahman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ixora Kamisan Atan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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An Overview of the Impact of Bacterial Infections and the Associated Mortality Predictors in Patients with COVID-19 Admitted to a Tertiary Center from Eastern Europe. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010144. [PMID: 36671345 PMCID: PMC9854454 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010144] [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: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
1. BACKGROUND Literature data on bacterial infections and their impact on the mortality rates of COVID-19 patients from Romania are scarce, while worldwide reports are contrasting. 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a unicentric retrospective observational study that included 280 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, on whom we performed various microbiological determinations. Based on the administration or not of the antibiotic treatment, we divided the patients into two groups. First, we sought to investigate the rates and predictors of bacterial infections, the causative microbial strains, and the prescribed antibiotic treatment. Secondly, the study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with in-hospital death and evaluate the biomarkers' performance for predicting short-term mortality. 3. RESULTS Bacterial co-infections or secondary infections were confirmed in 23 (8.2%) patients. Acinetobacter baumannii was the pathogen responsible for most of the confirmed bacterial infections. Almost three quarters of the patients (72.8%) received empiric antibiotic therapy. Multivariate logistic regression has shown leukocytosis and intensive care unit admission as risk factors for bacterial infections and C-reactive protein, together with the length of hospital stay, as mortality predictors. The ROC curves revealed an acceptable performance for the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (AUC: 0.781), and C-reactive protein (AUC: 0.797), but a poor performance for fibrinogen (AUC: 0.664) in predicting fatal events. 4. CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted the somewhat paradoxical association of a low rate of confirmed infections with a high rate of empiric antibiotic therapy. A thorough assessment of the risk factors for bacterial infections, in addition to the acknowledgment of various mortality predictors, is crucial for identifying high-risk patients, thus allowing a timely therapeutic intervention, with a direct impact on improving patients' prognosis.
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Tele-rehabilitation in voice disorders during the pandemic: a consensus paper from the French Society of Phoniatrics and Laryngology. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2022; 280:2411-2419. [PMID: 36525078 PMCID: PMC9756705 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-022-07779-9] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish a consensus protocol for telerehabilitation in speech therapy for voice disorders. METHODS The study was conducted according to a modified Delphi method. Twenty speech therapist or laryngologist experts of the French Society of Phoniatrics and Laryngology assessed 24 statements of voice telerehabilitation with a 10-point visual analog scale ranging from 1 (totally disagree) to 10 (totally agree). The statements were accepted if more than 80% of the experts rated the item with a score of ≥ 8/10. The statements with ≥ 8/10 score by 60-80% of experts were improved and resubmitted to voting until they were validated or rejected. RESULTS The French Society of Phoniatrics and Laryngology experts validated 10, 6, and 2 statements after the first, second and third voting round, respectively. Seven statements did not reach agreement threshold and were rejected. The validated statements included recommendations for setting (N = 4), medical/speech history (N = 2), subjective voice evaluations (N = 3), objective voice quality measurements (N = 3), and voice rehabilitation (N = 5). The experts agreed for a follow-up consisting of combined telerehabilitation and in-office rehabilitation. The final protocol may be applied in context of pandemic but could be assessed out of pandemic period for patients located in rural regions. CONCLUSIONS This Delphi study established the first telerehabilitation protocol of the French Society of Phoniatrics and Laryngology for patients with voice disorders. Future controlled studies are needed to assess its feasibility, reliability, and the patient perception about telerehabilitation versus in-office rehabilitation.
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Al-Hatamleh MAI, Hatmal MM, Mustafa SHF, Alzu’bi M, AlSou’b AF, Abughanam SNS, Olaimat AN, Kateeb ET, Mohamud R. Experiences and perceptions of COVID-19 infection and vaccination among Palestinian refugees in Jerash camp and Jordanian citizens: a comparative cross-sectional study by face-to-face interviews. Infect Dis Poverty 2022; 11:123. [PMID: 36510264 PMCID: PMC9744667 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-022-01047-y] [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: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 vaccination, the access to vaccines has been unequal among countries and individuals, for example low-income countries displayed significant low levels of vaccination. Furthermore, most refugees are living in developing low-income countries which struggling to access the essential health-care services including vaccination. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the experiences and perceptions of COVID-19 infection and vaccination among Palestine refugees in Jerash camp compared to resident Jordanian citizens. METHODS A face-to-face interview-based comparative cross-sectional study was carried out among Palestine refugees in Jerash camp located in northern Jordan and Jordanian citizens from different cities in Jordan from October, 2021 to March, 2022. A Chi-square test was used to determine the differences in the experiences and perceptions of COVID-19 infection and vaccination between Palestinian refugees and resident Jordanian citizens. Logistic regression analysis was performed to predict factors associated with the beliefs, barriers and hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccines. RESULTS The total number of participants was 992, with 501 (50.5%) Palestinian refugees and 491 (49.5%) Jordanian citizens. Most participants (64.1%) who have never been tested for COVID-19 were from the refugees (P < 0.001), whereas about 80.3% of the participants tested for COVID-19 at private healthcare institutions were citizens (P < 0.001). While 70.0% of the participants who tested positive for COVID-19 (n = 303) were from the refugees (P < 0.001). Compared to the citizens, the refugees had significantly lower levels of beliefs about the safety (P = 0.008) and efficiency (P < 0.001) of COVID-19 vaccines. They also had lower rates of vaccine hesitancy (P = 0.002) and vaccine uptake (P < 0.001), and a higher rate of facing difficulties during registration for COVID-19 vaccination (P < 0.001). Furthermore, refugees have more negative attitudes toward the importance and implementation of COVID-19 precautionary activities, including wearing face masks, practicing social distancing and following proper prevention hygiene compared to citizens (P < 0.001). The regression analysis showed that gender (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001) and level of education (P = 0.001) were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Also, being a refugee (P < 0.001) and being a male (P = 0.012) were significantly associated with facing more difficulties upon the registration to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that, compared to citizens, refugees had lower attitudes and practices toward COVID-19 infection and vaccination. They also had and a lower rate of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake with limited access to vaccines. Government sectors and non-government organizations should implement policies and regulations to raise the awareness of refugees towards COVID-19 infection, testing, preventive measures, and the safety and efficacy of vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A. I. Al-Hatamleh
- grid.11875.3a0000 0001 2294 3534Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, 16150 Malaysia
| | - Ma’mon M. Hatmal
- grid.33801.390000 0004 0528 1681Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, 13133 Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Sulaf H. F. Mustafa
- grid.9670.80000 0001 2174 4509Faculty of Medicine, The University of Jordan, 11942 Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Alzu’bi
- grid.33801.390000 0004 0528 1681Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, 13133 P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Ali F. AlSou’b
- grid.443749.90000 0004 0623 1491Faculty of Medicine, Al-Balqa Applied University, 19117 Al-Salt, Jordan
| | - Shahed N. S. Abughanam
- grid.440897.60000 0001 0686 6540Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, 61710 Karak, Jordan
| | - Amin N. Olaimat
- grid.33801.390000 0004 0528 1681Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, 13133 Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Elham T. Kateeb
- grid.16662.350000 0001 2298 706XOral Health Research and Promotion Unit, Faculty of Dentistry, Al-Quds University, P.O. Box 51000 Jerusalem, Palestine
| | - Rohimah Mohamud
- grid.11875.3a0000 0001 2294 3534Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, 16150 Malaysia
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11
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Hossny EK, Morsy SM, Ahmed AM, Saleh MSM, Alenezi A, Sorour MS. Management of the COVID-19 pandemic: challenges, practices, and organizational support. BMC Nurs 2022; 21:196. [PMID: 35869492 PMCID: PMC9306231 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-022-00972-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health organizations currently face tremendous challenges in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic. To do this, successful and proven scientific practices and support are needed. AIM This study aimed to explore the challenges, practices, and organizational support dealt with by nursing managers in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A qualitative content analysis study evaluated 35 nursing managers in five university hospitals through a semi-structured interview. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research were used for this qualitative study. RESULTS Three main themes emerged: Challenges include the development of a COVID-19 crisis management plan, a shortage in nursing staff, and psychological problems. Practices include; changes in work schedules for nursing staff, the exchange process, hospital preparation, and training and education. And organizational support includes both support at an organizational level and support at an individual level. CONCLUSION This study revealed that nursing managers are faced with many challenges in the management of COVID-19, requiring good practices and organizational support. This study offers evidence for nursing managers to expect problems that may arise during the pandemic. RECOMMENDATIONS The COVID-19 pandemic requires the development of an integrated plan, and this plan must be disseminated to the hospital's nursing and medical teams to better equip them for the current and future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Kamel Hossny
- Nursing Administration, Faculty of Nursing, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Sahar Mohamed Morsy
- Nursing Administration, Faculty of Nursing, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Mohamed Ahmed
- Nursing Administration, Faculty of Nursing, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Manal Saleh Moustafa Saleh
- Nursing Administration, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University, Sharkia, Egypt
- Nursing Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
| | - Atallah Alenezi
- Nursing Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwa Samir Sorour
- Nursing Administration, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Management of Smart and Sustainable Cities in the Post-COVID-19 Era: Lessons and Implications. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14127267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, the concept of smart sustainable governance is wrapped around basic principles such as: (i) transparency, (ii) accountability, (iii) stakeholders’ involvement, and iv) citizens’ participation. It is through these principles that are influenced by information and communication technologies (ICT), Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence, that the practices employed by citizens and their interaction with electronic government (e-government) are diversified. Previously, the misleading concepts of the smart city implied only the objective of the local level or public officials to utilize technology. However, the recent European experience and research studies have led to a more comprehensive notion that refers to the search for intelligent solutions which allow modern sustainable cities to enhance the quality of services provided to citizens and to improve the management of urban mobility. The smart city is based on the usage of connected sensors, data management, and analytics platforms to improve the quality and functioning of built-environment systems. The aim of this paper is to understand the effects of the pandemic on smart cities and to accentuate major exercises that can be learned for post-COVID sustainable urban management and patterns. The lessons and implications outlined in this paper can be used to enforce social distancing community measures in an effective and timely way, and to optimize the use of resources in smart and sustainable cities in critical situations. The paper offers a conceptual overview and serves as a stepping-stone to extensive research and the deployment of sustainable smart city platforms and intelligent transportation systems (a sub-area of smart city applications) after the COVID-19 pandemic using a case study from Russia. Overall, our results demonstrate that the COVID-19 crisis encompasses an excellent opportunity for urban planners and policy makers to take transformative actions towards creating cities that are more intelligent and sustainable.
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Poddighe D, Ziaee V, Kasapcopur O. Editorial: COVID-19 and hyper inflammation syndrome: Different presentation and management. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1022701. [PMID: 36160806 PMCID: PMC9501999 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1022701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Poddighe
- Department of Medicine, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan.,Clinical Academic Department of Pediatrics, National Research Center for Maternal and Child Health, University Medical Center (UMC), Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
| | - Vahid Ziaee
- Department of Pediatrics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Children's Medical Center, Pediatric Center of Excellence, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ozgur Kasapcopur
- Department of Pediatric Rheumatology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Istanbul, Turkey
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