One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Geriatrics geriatrics	2.1	3.3	2016	23.9 Days	CHF 1800
Healthcare healthcare	2.4	3.5	2013	20.3 Days	CHF 2700
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health ijerph	-	7.3	2004	25.8 Days	CHF 2500
Journal of Clinical Medicine jcm	3.0	5.7	2012	16 Days	CHF 2600
Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease tropicalmed	2.8	3.9	2016	19.2 Days	CHF 2700

9 pages, 212 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Establishment of a Mandarin Chinese Version of the Oral Frailty Index-8 and Exploration of the Association Between Oral Frailty and Sarcopenia

by Chen-Cheng Yang, Hsiang-Tai Chen, Katsuya Iijima, Tomoki Tanaka, Chia-Yen Dai, Sang-Ju Yu and Hung-Yi Chuang

Geriatrics 2025, 10(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10020047 - 17 Mar 2025

Viewed by 543

Abstract

Objective: The aim of our study was to introduce a Mandarin Chinese version of the oral frailty assessment and explore the relationship between oral frailty and sarcopenia. A total of 409 elders (171 male, 238 female) participated in surveys using the Mandarin Chinese [...] Read more.

Objective: The aim of our study was to introduce a Mandarin Chinese version of the oral frailty assessment and explore the relationship between oral frailty and sarcopenia. A total of 409 elders (171 male, 238 female) participated in surveys using the Mandarin Chinese version of the Oral Frailty Index-8 (OFI-8) in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Method: The translation of the Mandarin Chinese version of OFI-8 adhered to the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) reporting guidelines. The eight-item questionnaire assessed tooth status, oral function, and other subjective measures. Additionally, sarcopenia was evaluated using the SARC-F questionnaire. Result: Among the participants, 195 participants were classified as non-oral frailty and 214 participants were oral frailty. Significant differences were observed in age, gender, body mass index (BMI), education level, and scores on the SARC-F questionnaire between the non-oral frailty and oral frailty populations. In logistic regression model, oral frailty showed a significant and positive association with the SARC-F score (adjusted odds ratio 2.130, 95% confidence interval 1.580–2.872, p-value < 0.001), even after adjusting for age, gender, BMI, and education level. Conclusion: This study has developed a valuable Mandarin Chinese version of the oral frailty screening questionnaire, the OFI-8. Oral frailty is significantly and positively associated with a higher risk of sarcopenia, particularly among the elderly, males, and those with lower education levels. This measure proves to be practical for assessing oral health status in the Chinese community, promoting oral frailty research within the Mandarin Chinese population, and addressing the challenges associated with defining oral frailty in future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

13 pages, 860 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Syndrome in Association with Health Habits in the Mexican Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Julia María Alatorre-Cruz, Graciela Catalina Alatorre-Cruz, Vianey Marín-Cevada and Ricardo Carreño-López

Healthcare 2024, 12(21), 2174; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12212174 - 31 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1521

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are common disorders in the Mexican population, but these are usually underdiagnosed and under-treated, impacting women’s quality of life. Adequate health habits have been reported as precursors of decreasing dysmenorrhea symptoms. However, few studies assess their impact [...] Read more.

Background: Dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are common disorders in the Mexican population, but these are usually underdiagnosed and under-treated, impacting women’s quality of life. Adequate health habits have been reported as precursors of decreasing dysmenorrhea symptoms. However, few studies assess their impact on PMS. Aim: This study aims to evaluate dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome in association with health habits in the Mexican population. Methods: To assess the impact of health habits on menstruation symptoms a validated survey was conducted in 1679 adult females aged ≥18 years. The survey collected data on participants’ dysmenorrhea, PMS, and their health habits. Results: The analysis showed that physical activity duration, changes in eating habits (increases in salty or sugary foods) during menstruation, and oversleeping habits predict increases in dysmenorrhea and PMS. In contrast, an active sexual life, relaxing physical activity, and adequate sleep hours during menstruation seem to decrease the symptoms. Conclusions: We conclude that adequate health habits and addressing early gynecological conditions might regulate dysmenorrhea and PMS. Full article

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10 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Adjunct Hemoperfusion Compared to Standard Medical Therapy on 28-Day Mortality in Leptospirosis Patients with Renal Failure and Shock: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial

by Danice Romagne Leano, Romina Danguilan, Mel-Hatra Arakama, Vince Apelin, Paolo Pinkerton Alamillo and Eric Chua

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(9), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9090206 - 9 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1398

Abstract

Hemoperfusion is a novel adjunct therapy that targets the dysregulated inflammatory events in severe sepsis. Previous studies have reported conflicting results on its efficacy and safety. This study was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of hemoperfusion among leptospirosis patients in septic [...] Read more.

Hemoperfusion is a novel adjunct therapy that targets the dysregulated inflammatory events in severe sepsis. Previous studies have reported conflicting results on its efficacy and safety. This study was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of hemoperfusion among leptospirosis patients in septic shock and renal failure in terms of improvement in 28-day mortality, SOFA score, level of inflammatory markers, hemodynamics, and renal and pulmonary function. A total of 37 severe leptospirosis patients were enrolled and randomized into either standard medical therapy (SMT) alone, n = 20, or with hemoperfusion (HP), n = 17. Vital signs, urine output, vasopressor dose, PaO₂/FiO₂ (P/F) ratio, and biochemical parameters of patients from each treatment arm were compared. The hemoperfusion group showed a 36.84% (p = 0.017) risk reduction in 28-day mortality. Levels of procalcitonin, IL6, and lactate significantly decreased from baseline to day 7 in both groups. Statistically significant improvements in serum creatinine (p = 0.04) and PF ratio (p = 0.045) were observed in the hemoperfusion cohort. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol approaches showed that hemoperfusion increased the survival rate and decreased the mortality risk. This benefit for survival persisted even when patients were also receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), showing that hemoperfusion’s benefits are independent of ECMO use. Hemoperfusion is a safe and effective adjunct therapy for managing severe sepsis. It promotes earlier renal and pulmonary function recovery and improves the survival of septic shock patients. Full article

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10 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patients’ Identification, Management and Prevention of Adverse Drug Reactions: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Patients with Severe Adverse Drug Reactions

by Warisara Srisuriyachanchai, Anthony R. Cox and Narumol Jarernsiripornkul

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(14), 4165; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13144165 - 16 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1979

Abstract

Background: Few studies have been conducted on how patients identify, manage, and prevent severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs). This study aimed to explore the reasoning that patients use to identify symptoms of severe ADRs and the methods they employ to manage and prevent [...] Read more.

Background: Few studies have been conducted on how patients identify, manage, and prevent severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs). This study aimed to explore the reasoning that patients use to identify symptoms of severe ADRs and the methods they employ to manage and prevent them. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using structured telephone interviews was administered to patients with a self-assessed severe ADR and to patients with serious skin ADRs from a hospital medical record database (in-patient and out-patient) from 1 September 2016 to 1 September 2019. Patients identified via the medical records were asked to assess their ADR for severity, and only patients that rated their ADR as severe were followed up with a telephone interview. Structured telephone interviews were conducted with respondents by a research pharmacist and audio-recorded. Results: A total of 722 patients with a severe ADR were identified, with 300 completing the interview (41.6%). The most frequently cited reasons for classifying ADRs as severe was worsening ADR symptoms (58.3%), severe ADR symptoms (44.4%), and ADR symptoms interfering with their life (36.4%). Only severe ADR symptoms were significantly different between the questionnaire and the medical records database groups (p = 0.007). The most frequent method of ADR management was discontinuation of drug by physicians (88.3%). About 79.0% of patients stated that they increased their carefulness when using other drugs after experiencing ADRs. The main method patients used to prevent ADRs was informing healthcare professionals (HCPs) about their drug allergy history (65.7%). Conclusions: Worsening ADR symptoms were often used to identify severe ADRs. However, HCPs were mainly responsible for the management and prevention of severe ADRs. Increasing awareness of ADRs by HCPs, and providing additional drug information, may improve patient safety. Full article

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15 pages, 1473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Respiratory Symptoms and Changes of Oxidative Stress Markers among Motorbike Drivers Chronically Exposed to Fine and Ultrafine Air Particles: A Case Study of Douala and Dschang, Cameroon

by Joseph Eloge Tiekwe, Nadine Ongbayokolak, Solange Dabou, Cerge Kamhoua Natheu, Marie Stéphanie Goka, Prosper Cabral Nya Biapa, Isabella Annesi-Maesano and Phélix Bruno Telefo

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(13), 3816; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13133816 - 28 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1377

Abstract

Recent studies revealed that the high production of reactive oxidative species due to exposure to fine or ultrafine particles are involved in many chronic respiratory disorders. However, the poor standard of clinical data in sub-Saharan countries makes the assessment of our knowledge on [...] Read more.

Recent studies revealed that the high production of reactive oxidative species due to exposure to fine or ultrafine particles are involved in many chronic respiratory disorders. However, the poor standard of clinical data in sub-Saharan countries makes the assessment of our knowledge on the health impacts of air pollution in urban cities very difficult. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution of respiratory disorders associated with exposure to fine and ultrafine air particles through the changes of some oxidative stress biomarkers among motorbike drivers from two cities of Cameroon. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using a standardized questionnaire was conducted in 2019 on 191 motorcycle drivers (MDs) working in Douala and Dschang. Then, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured using colorimetric methods. The data of participants, after being clustered in Microsoft Excel, were analyzed and statistically compared using SPSS 20 software. Results: The motorbike drivers recruited from both cities were from 21 to 40 years old, with a mean age of 29.93 (±0.82). The distribution of respiratory disorders, such as a runny nose, cold, dry cough, chest discomfort, and breathlessness, was significantly increased among MDs in Douala. According to the results of biological assays, SOD and MDA were significantly greater among the MDs recruited in Douala compared to those of Dschang. The change in these oxidative stress markers was significantly positively correlated with the mobilization of monocytes and negatively correlated with neutrophils, showing the onset and progression of subjacent inflammatory reactions, and it seemed to be significantly influenced by the location MDs lived in. Conclusions: Through this study, we have confirmed the evidence supporting that the onset and progression of oxidative stress is caused by the long-term exposure to fine or ultrafine air particles among working people living in urban cities. Further studies should be conducted to provide evidence for the cellular damage and dysfunction related to the chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM) in the air among working people in the metropolitan sub-Saharan Africa context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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20 pages, 713 KiB

Open AccessReview

Programmes Addressed to Informal Caregivers’ Needs: A Systematic Literature Review

by Laurência Gemito, Elisabete Alves, José Moreira, Maria Fátima Marques, Ermelinda Caldeira, Rogério Ferreira, Isabel Bico, Lara Pinho, César Fonseca, Luís Sousa and Manuel Lopes

Geriatrics 2024, 9(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9030071 - 30 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2075

Abstract

Background: Addressing informal caregivers’ needs is essential for ensuring quality healthcare and promoting citizen-centred care. This systematic review assessed current knowledge about programmes aimed at meeting the needs of informal caregivers of adults who are dependent on others for daily life activities. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background: Addressing informal caregivers’ needs is essential for ensuring quality healthcare and promoting citizen-centred care. This systematic review assessed current knowledge about programmes aimed at meeting the needs of informal caregivers of adults who are dependent on others for daily life activities. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, the electronic databases EBSCOhost Research Platform, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and The Virtual Health Library were searched for randomized experimental studies published between 2012 and 2022 that implemented programmes addressing informal caregivers’ needs to improve their experiences, health, and well-being. Quality was assessed using the standardized critical evaluation tools from the Joanna Briggs Institute. Two independent investigators performed the eligibility assessment and data extraction. Quantitative data on the effectiveness of interventions were collected, and the content of each intervention was synthesized and aggregated into categories, through narrative synthesis. Results: The majority of the included studies (n = 16) were conducted in European countries and implemented a structured intervention programme compared to the provision of usual care. The studies were of fair to high methodological quality, with a higher risk of bias related to blinding. The results supported the achievement of favourable health outcomes among informal caregivers, namely improvements in mental health (n = 3) and quality of life (n = 3) and a decrease in psychological symptomatology (n = 5) and burden (n = 3). None of the interventions reported adverse outcomes; however, five studies did not describe significant differences in the outcomes assessed after the implementation of the programmes. Interventions focusing on training and educating caregivers (n = 14) and cognitive–behavioural strategies (n = 7) were the most common, while programmes focusing on emotional and psychological support as a resource to improve caregivers’ psychological outcomes were scarce. Conclusions: This systematic review adds to the growing body of evidence and insight showing that programmes that address informal caregivers’ needs seem to contribute to better physical and psychological health outcomes through the promotion of caregivers’ educational support and the implementation of cognitive–behavioural strategies. Future research should implement methodologically robust cross-country programmes tailored to informal caregivers’ physical, emotional, psychosocial, societal, and educational needs throughout the care trajectory. Full article

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10 pages, 413 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Post-Pandemic Evolution of Suicide Risk in Children and Adolescents Attending a General Hospital Accident and Emergency Department

by Ana Maciá-Casas, Javier de la Iglesia-Larrad, Llanyra García-Ullán, Belén Refoyo-Matellán, Clara Munaiz-Cossío, Sara Díaz-Trejo, Vanesa Berdión-Marcos, Julia Calama-Martín, Carlos Roncero and Jesús Pérez

Healthcare 2024, 12(10), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12100977 - 9 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1835

Abstract

Background: Lockdowns and other health protective measures, such as social distancing, imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic nurtured unprecedented levels of stress and social isolation around the world. This scenario triggered an increase in suicide thoughts and self-harm behaviours among children and young people. [...] Read more.

Background: Lockdowns and other health protective measures, such as social distancing, imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic nurtured unprecedented levels of stress and social isolation around the world. This scenario triggered an increase in suicide thoughts and self-harm behaviours among children and young people. However, the longer-term impact of the pandemic on children’s and adolescents’ mental health, especially with regard to self-harm, is still to be fully discovered. Methods: We carried out a retrospective study where we collected data related to suicide ideation and self-harm behaviours in all patients aged under 18 that required on-call psychiatric services at the General Hospital Accident and Emergency (A&E) department in Salamanca, Spain, during 2019 (pre-pandemic) and in both 2021 and 2022 to capture possible variation at different time points during the post-pandemic period. Results: A total of 316 patients aged under 18 were seen by on-call psychiatric services at the A&E department during the three time periods: 78 in 2019, 98 in 2021 and 140 in 2022. The mean age was 15.12 (SD 2.25) and females represented more than twice the number of males each year. More than half of all patients assessed during 2022 disclosed suicide thoughts, whilst in 2019, it was near 25%. This increase in suicide ideation rates was more marked among females (X² = 15.127; p = 0.001), those aged over 15 (X² = 16.437; p < 0.001) and/or those with a previous history of mental health problems (X² = 17.823; p < 0.001). We identified an increase in the proportion of males with suicide ideas, especially between 2021 and 2022 (X² = 8.396; p = 0.015). Conclusions: Our study suggests that children’s and adolescents’ demand for urgent mental healthcare and their clinical presentations in A&E departments with suicide thoughts and/or self-injuries do not seem to be declining after the pandemic but increasing over time. More research is warranted to understand possible factors involved in this sustained upward trend. Full article

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19 pages, 8349 KiB

Open AccessReview

Inflammaging in Multidrug-Resistant Sepsis of Geriatric ICU Patients and Healthcare Challenges

by Nishitha R. Kumar, Tejashree A. Balraj, Kusuma K. Shivashankar, Tejaswini C. Jayaram and Akila Prashant

Geriatrics 2024, 9(2), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9020045 - 3 Apr 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Multidrug-resistant sepsis (MDR) is a pressing concern in intensive care unit (ICU) settings, specifically among geriatric patients who experience age-related immune system changes and comorbidities. The aim of this review is to explore the clinical impact of MDR sepsis in geriatric ICU patients [...] Read more.

Multidrug-resistant sepsis (MDR) is a pressing concern in intensive care unit (ICU) settings, specifically among geriatric patients who experience age-related immune system changes and comorbidities. The aim of this review is to explore the clinical impact of MDR sepsis in geriatric ICU patients and shed light on healthcare challenges associated with its management. We conducted a comprehensive literature search using the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and Google Scholar search engines. Our search incorporated keywords such as “multidrug-resistant sepsis” OR “MDR sepsis”, “geriatric ICU patients” OR “elderly ICU patients”, and “complications”, “healthcare burdens”, “diagnostic challenges”, and “healthcare challenges” associated with MDR sepsis in “ICU patients” and “geriatric/elderly ICU patients”. This review explores the specific risk factors contributing to MDR sepsis, the complexities of diagnostic challenges, and the healthcare burden faced by elderly ICU patients. Notably, the elderly population bears a higher burden of MDR sepsis (57.5%), influenced by various factors, including comorbidities, immunosuppression, age-related immune changes, and resource-limited ICU settings. Furthermore, sepsis imposes a significant economic burden on healthcare systems, with annual costs exceeding $27 billion in the USA. These findings underscore the urgency of addressing MDR sepsis in geriatric ICU patients and the need for tailored interventions to improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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13 pages, 1351 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Human Health Impacts of the Red Imported Fire Ant in the Western Pacific Region Context: A Narrative Review

by Diego J. Lopez, Kenneth D. Winkel, Troy Wanandy, Sheryl van Nunen, Kirsten P. Perrett and Adrian J. Lowe

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040069 - 26 Mar 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4503

Abstract

Background: The red imported fire ant (RIFA) is one of the world’s most destructive invasive species. RIFA stings are painful and can lead to allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis, yet health impacts remain inadequately defined. Methods: We searched MEDLINE (Ovid) and Google Scholar [...] Read more.

Background: The red imported fire ant (RIFA) is one of the world’s most destructive invasive species. RIFA stings are painful and can lead to allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis, yet health impacts remain inadequately defined. Methods: We searched MEDLINE (Ovid) and Google Scholar (grey literature) from inception until 20 September 2023 for articles in English using search terms related to red imported fire ants and allergies, including anaphylaxis. Results: Approximately a third of the population in RIFA-infested areas are stung each year. The most frequent reaction is a sterile 1–2 mm pseudo pustule on the skin. Approximately 20% of stings cause a large local reaction and between about 0.5% and 2% stings cause a systemic allergic reaction which can range from skin symptoms to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Local biodiversity is also significantly disrupted by invading RIFA and may lead to complex adverse effects on human health, from agriculture losses to expanded ranges for pathogen vectors. Conclusions: The potential for red imported fire ants to establish themselves as an invasive species in the Western Pacific presents a substantial and costly health issue. Successful eradication and surveillance programs, to identify and eradicate new incursions, would avoid substantial health impacts and costs. Full article

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13 pages, 1968 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved Oral Health Is Associated with a Lower Risk of Late Onset Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Nationwide Cohort Study

by Min Kyung Chung, Yoonkyung Chang, Jung-Hyun Park, Gwang Hyun Leem and Tae-Jin Song

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(6), 1606; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13061606 - 11 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1345

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of oral health status and habits with the occurrence of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in a nationwide population-based cohort in a longitudinal setting. Methods: A total of 2,415,963 individuals aged 40–79 years [...] Read more.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of oral health status and habits with the occurrence of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in a nationwide population-based cohort in a longitudinal setting. Methods: A total of 2,415,963 individuals aged 40–79 years who underwent oral health examinations were included from the National Health Insurance Service-National Health Screening (NHIS-HEALS) cohort of Korea between 2003 and 2004. The occurrence of AS was analyzed according to the oral health status and oral hygiene habits. Results: Among 2,271,221 of the participants, AS occurred in 6366 (0.3%) participants over 16.7 years. The likelihood of AS was higher in participants who had periodontitis (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20–1.46, p < 0.0001) and more missing teeth (HR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.42–1.99, p < 0.0001). However, better oral hygiene habits such as frequent tooth brushing (HR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.71–0.83, p < 0.0001) and a history of dental scaling within the last year (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.82–0.95, p = 0.001) were associated with a lower occurrence of AS. Conclusions: Periodontitis and an increased number of missing teeth could be related to the occurrence of late-onset AS. Improved oral hygiene care may attenuate the likelihood of late-onset AS. Full article

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21 pages, 769 KiB

Open AccessReview

Political Leaders’ Communication Strategies during COVID-19 in Highly Infected Countries: A Scoping Review

by Magde Mohamed Nour and Adnan Kisa

Healthcare 2024, 12(6), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12060607 - 7 Mar 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3527

Abstract

This scoping review maps communication strategies employed by political leaders in countries that experienced high infection rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework, this study systematically explored the literature from 2019 to October 2023. The process involved [...] Read more.

This scoping review maps communication strategies employed by political leaders in countries that experienced high infection rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review framework, this study systematically explored the literature from 2019 to October 2023. The process involved identifying and selecting relevant studies, charting them, and summarizing the data from the 40 articles that met the inclusion criteria. This review identified a diverse array of communication strategies, which highlight the complex nature of crisis communication. These strategies featured the use of social media, science-based policy communication, strategic narrative control, empathy, ideological influences, and storytelling. These six approaches underscore the importance of adaptability and context-specific strategies in political leadership during a health crisis. The findings demonstrate that political communication during the pandemic varied significantly and was influenced by factors such as media platform, political ideology, gender, and non-verbal cues. This review enriches our understanding of crisis communication in political contexts. It emphasizes the necessity of combining traditional and digital media and considering various sociopolitical factors. The insights gained are crucial for enhancing crisis management and public trust, and they set the stage for further research and practical application in crisis communication. Full article

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24 pages, 8433 KiB

Open AccessReview

Cutaneous Adverse Reactions Associated with Tattoos and Permanent Makeup Pigments

by Beatrice Bălăceanu-Gurău, Eliza Apostol, Mădălina Caraivan, Ana Ion, Raluca Tatar, Mara Mădălina Mihai, Liliana Gabriela Popa, Cristian-Dorin Gurău and Olguța Anca Orzan

J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(2), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13020503 - 16 Jan 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5790

Abstract

Tattooing is the procedure of implanting permanent pigment granules and additives into the dermal layer of the skin, serving various purposes such as decoration, medical identification, or accidental markings. There has been a significant rise in the popularity of decorative tattooing as a [...] Read more.

Tattooing is the procedure of implanting permanent pigment granules and additives into the dermal layer of the skin, serving various purposes such as decoration, medical identification, or accidental markings. There has been a significant rise in the popularity of decorative tattooing as a form of body art among both teenagers and young adults. Thus, the incidence of tattoos is increasing, with expanding applications such as permanent makeup, scar camouflage, nipple–areola, lips, and eyebrows tattooing, and utilization in oncological radiotherapy such as colon marking. However, there have been reported a broad range of adverse reactions linked to tattooing, encompassing allergic reactions, superficial and deep cutaneous infections, autoimmune disorders induced by the Koebner phenomenon, cutaneous tumors, and others. These reactions exhibit different onset times for symptoms, ranging from immediate manifestations after tattoo application to symptoms emerging several years later. Given the limited information on a tattoo’s side effects, this review aims to elucidate the clinical spectrum of cutaneous complications of tattoos in different patients. The analysis will investigate both allergic and nonallergic clinical presentations of tattoo-related side effects, microscopic findings from skin biopsies, and therapeutic outcomes. This exploration is essential to improve our understanding of tattoo-related cutaneous complications and associated differential diagnoses and highlight the significance of patient awareness regarding potential risks before getting a tattoo. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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11 pages, 1246 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Night-Time Hot Spring Bathing Is Associated with a Lower Systolic Blood Pressure among Japanese Older Adults: A Single-Institution Retrospective Cohort Study

by Satoshi Yamasaki, Tomotake Tokunou, Toyoki Maeda and Takahiko Horiuchi

Geriatrics 2024, 9(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9010002 - 21 Dec 2023

Viewed by 3066

Abstract

Hot spring bathing is practiced to help manage hypertension. We retrospectively investigated the effects of hot spring bathing on hypertension with the aim of identifying a novel approach to prevent and manage hypertension. The study cohort comprised 99 patients aged ≥65 years admitted [...] Read more.

Hot spring bathing is practiced to help manage hypertension. We retrospectively investigated the effects of hot spring bathing on hypertension with the aim of identifying a novel approach to prevent and manage hypertension. The study cohort comprised 99 patients aged ≥65 years admitted to Kyushu University Beppu Hospital between 1 December 2021 and 30 November 2022 who could walk by themselves and who used hot springs for ≥3 days during their hospital stay. The changes in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure were significantly decreased in the night-time bathing group (n = 21) compared with the noontime (n = 26) and afternoon (n = 52) groups. Night-time hot spring bathing was significantly associated with reduced systolic blood pressure the next morning in older adults. Although prospective randomized controlled trials on night-time hot spring bathing as a hypertension treatment are warranted to investigate whether the practice can prevent hypertension among adults aged ≥65 years, we have initiated a single-center, phase II study on the relationship between sleep quality and quality of life in hypertensive patients after night-time hot spring bathing. Full article

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9 pages, 905 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Advanced Care Study: Current Status of Lipedema in Spain, A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

by Alexo Carballeira Braña and Johana Poveda Castillo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(17), 6647; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20176647 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3821

Abstract

Introduction: The pathologic features of fatty tissue in lipedema are often challenging to diagnose, thus allowing for variable bias and leading to underdiagnosis. Lipedema is a disease that is currently little known worldwide, but it represents a public health problem and demands immediate, [...] Read more.

Introduction: The pathologic features of fatty tissue in lipedema are often challenging to diagnose, thus allowing for variable bias and leading to underdiagnosis. Lipedema is a disease that is currently little known worldwide, but it represents a public health problem and demands immediate, well-directed healthcare. Insufficient scientific information limits medical action, which limits making diagnoses and addressing an adequate multidisciplinary treatment. This study aims to evaluate the current state of lipedema in Spain to contextualize the disease’s pathophysiological characteristics and thus achieve a consensus that unifies and defines its diagnostic criteria and medical management. Likewise, this study aims to determine the effectiveness of the various treatments applied to the study patients and to evaluate the consequences of the pandemic related to this disease. Material and methods: The present work is a descriptive, cross-sectional study that analyzed online questionnaires. It was applied to 1069 patients and collected over 9 months between 2021 and 2022. The questionnaires were distributed to the leading national and regional associations of patients affected by lipedema. The study included all patients in a group who had a diagnosis of lipedema and in a group of undiagnosed patients with six or more symptoms. The variables analyzed were age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), type of lipedema (according to Schingale’s classification), symptoms (according to Wolf’s classification, modified by Herbst), and treatments performed (physiotherapy, compression garments, sports, diet, radiofrequency, mesotherapy, and surgery), associated with the score given by the patients regarding the degree of improvement in their disease with each of these treatments. Results: There were 967 women and 2 men between 18 and 75 years old (mean of 38.5 years); a body weight between 33 and 150 kg (mean 75.8 kg); a height between 144 and 180 cm (mean 164 cm); and an average body mass index (BMI) of 28.1. The most common kind of lipedema in our study population was type III (affecting the hips, thighs, and calves). The treatment that individually improved patients’ quality of life the most was surgery, only surpassed by the multidisciplinary approach to the disease, including conservative measures. Conclusions: With this study, we can conclude that, in Spain, there is a real problem associated with the diagnosis of lipedema, specifying the need to seek this diagnosis actively and propose multidisciplinary management, since it offers the best overall results, of course not without forgetting that surgery is one of the most critical pillars in the approach to this disease. Consistent with the results obtained in this study, criteria were proposed and applied to represent a statistical value at the time of ruling on the clinical diagnosis of lipedema, considering that a patient who presents six or more of these diagnostic criteria, with a very high probability, will have lipedema. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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16 pages, 312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends in Health Communication: Social Media Needs and Quality of Life among Older Adults in Malaysia

by Hana W. Jun Chen, Roy Rillera Marzo, Nur Hafizah Sapa, Absar Ahmad, Haryati Anuar, Mohammed Faez Baobaid, Nurul Akmal Jamaludin, Hazian Hamzah, Siamak Sarrafan, Hassan Omar Ads, Kavitha Ashok Kumar, Jalal Hadi, Hafsah Sazali and Mohammed A. Abdalqader

Healthcare 2023, 11(10), 1455; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11101455 - 17 May 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4177

Abstract

Background: While social media continues to dominate, social media platforms have become powerful health communication tools for older users. However, fulfilling their social media needs can be both detrimental and beneficial to their quality of life (QoL). This study assessed social media needs [...] Read more.

Background: While social media continues to dominate, social media platforms have become powerful health communication tools for older users. However, fulfilling their social media needs can be both detrimental and beneficial to their quality of life (QoL). This study assessed social media needs as they relate to QoL among older adults in Malaysia. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study and adopted convenience sampling to recruit participants. The participants were required to self-report their sociodemographic profile, social media use and needs, and QoL. Social media use and needs were assessed using the Social Networking Sites Uses and Needs (SNSUN) scale, and QoL was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was performed to identify the predictors of QoL. Results: The findings revealed that the fulfilment of social integrative needs was the strongest predictor of higher QoL in all domains. However, those using social media for their affective needs demonstrated lower psychological health quality. Conclusions: Fulfilling social integrative needs is the key to improving the QoL among older adults. The continuous development of age-friendly applications is essential to keep up with constantly changing social media trends and bridge the gap of social media inequalities. More importantly, it would enable older adults to utilize social media to its fullest potential and enjoy a higher QoL through accessible health communication tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

25 pages, 8590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Clinical Isolates in a Multi-Profile Hospital over 5 Years (2017–2021)

by Beata Mączyńska, Magdalena Frej-Mądrzak, Jolanta Sarowska, Krystyna Woronowicz, Irena Choroszy-Król and Agnieszka Jama-Kmiecik

J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(6), 2414; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12062414 - 21 Mar 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3497

Abstract

In recent years, we have witnessed a growing drug resistance among bacteria, which is associated with the use and availability of an increasing number of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents, as well as with their irrational and excessive use. The present study aims to analyze [...] Read more.

In recent years, we have witnessed a growing drug resistance among bacteria, which is associated with the use and availability of an increasing number of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents, as well as with their irrational and excessive use. The present study aims to analyze changes in the drug resistance of Gram-negative Enterobacterales: Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, isolated from infections in a multi-profile hospital over five years (from 2017 to 2021). Among the practical outcomes of the evaluation of these data will be the possibility of determining changes in susceptibility to the antibiotics used in the hospital. In turn, this will help propose new therapeutic options, especially for empirical therapy that is necessary in severe infections. The analysis of the use of individual groups of antibiotics allowed for identification of the causes of the increasing resistance of Gram-negative bacilli. The highest number of infections whose etiological agent was K. pneumoniae ESBL(+) and E. coli ESBL(+) was observed in 2018. In the analyzed five-year period, the number of multi-resistant (MDR) K. pneumoniae strains increased successively, which seems to be related to the growing use, especially in the pandemic period, of broad-spectrum antibiotics, mainly penicillins with inhibitors, third-generation cephalosporins, and carbapenems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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12 pages, 907 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Disparities of Health Program Information Systems in Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Indonesian Health Facility Research 2019

by Sri Idaiani, Harimat Hendarwan and Maria Holly Herawati

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4384; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054384 - 1 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2620

Abstract

Although a recording and reporting format for health centers already exists for Indonesia’s standard information system, numerous health applications still need to meet the needs of each program. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the potential disparities in information systems in the application [...] Read more.

Although a recording and reporting format for health centers already exists for Indonesia’s standard information system, numerous health applications still need to meet the needs of each program. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the potential disparities in information systems in the application and data collection of health programs among Indonesian community health centers (CHCs) based on provinces and regions. This cross-sectional research used data from 9831 CHCs from the Health Facilities Research 2019 (RIFASKES). Significance was assessed using a chi-square test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The number of applications was depicted on a map using the spmap command with STATA version 14. It showed that region 2, which represented Java and Bali, was the best, followed by regions 1, which comprised Sumatra Island and its surroundings, and 3, Nusa Tenggara. The highest mean, equaling that of Java, was discovered in three provinces of region 1, namely, Jambi, Lampung, and Bangka Belitung. Furthermore, Papua and West Papua had less than 60% for all types of data-storage programs. Hence, there is a disparity in the health information system in Indonesia by province and region. The results of this analysis recommend future improvement of the CHCs’ information systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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11 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Related Factors of Lower Urinary Tract Infection in Frail Older Adults Undergoing Major Noncardiac Surgery

by Warin Thangrom, Inthira Roopsawang and Suparb Aree-Ue

Geriatrics 2023, 8(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics8020033 - 28 Feb 2023

Viewed by 2427

Abstract

Urinary tract infections are the most common complication after surgery in older adults, resulting in poor operative outcomes and reduced quality of life after discharge. However, there is limited research investigating the relationships between urinary tract infection and associated factors in frail older [...] Read more.

Urinary tract infections are the most common complication after surgery in older adults, resulting in poor operative outcomes and reduced quality of life after discharge. However, there is limited research investigating the relationships between urinary tract infection and associated factors in frail older surgical patients, particularly in Thailand. This retrospective study included 220 frail older patients aged ≥ 60 years who had undergone major noncardiac surgery at a tertiary care hospital in Thailand from January 2015 to December 2019. The sample was recruited using the criteria indicated in the modified Frailty Index-11 and having the blood glucose level determined within 2 h before surgery. The prevalence of lower urinary tract infections was 15% post-surgery. Firth’s logistic regression analysis revealed that the equation could predict the accuracy of lower urinary tract infections by 88.5%. Frailty, blood glucose levels, complication during admission, and personal factors together predicted the variability of lower urinary tract infections. Adjusting for other variables, being an older adult with severe frailty and complications during hospital admission significantly increased the risk of developing lower urinary tract infections (odds ratio = 3.46, p < 0.05; odds ratio = 9.53, p < 0.001, respectively). Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

18 pages, 1697 KiB

Open AccessReview

Endometrial Inflammation and Impaired Spontaneous Decidualization: Insights into the Pathogenesis of Adenomyosis

by Hiroshi Kobayashi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3762; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043762 - 20 Feb 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3499

Abstract

Adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecologic disease characterized by the myometrial invasion of the endometrial tissue. This review summarized the current understanding and recent findings on the pathophysiology of adenomyosis, focusing on repeated menstruation, persistent inflammation, and impaired spontaneous decidualization. A literature search was [...] Read more.

Adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecologic disease characterized by the myometrial invasion of the endometrial tissue. This review summarized the current understanding and recent findings on the pathophysiology of adenomyosis, focusing on repeated menstruation, persistent inflammation, and impaired spontaneous decidualization. A literature search was performed in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases from inception to 30 April 2022. Thirty-one full-text articles met the eligibility criteria. Repeated episodes of physiological events (i.e., endometrial shedding, damage, proliferation, differentiation, repair, and regeneration) during the menstrual cycle are associated with inflammation, angiogenesis, and immune processes. The decidualization process in humans is driven by the rise in progesterone levels, independently of pregnancy (i.e., spontaneous decidualization). Adenomyotic cells produce angiogenic and fibrogenic factors with the downregulation of decidualization-associated molecules. This decidualization dysfunction and persistent inflammation are closely related to the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Recently, it has been found that the reproductive tract microbiota composition and function in women with adenomyosis differ from those without. An increase in opportunistic pathogens and a decrease in beneficial commensals may promote impaired defense mechanisms against inflammation and predispose women to uncontrolled endometrial inflammation. However, currently, there is no direct evidence that adenomyosis is linked to pre-existing inflammation and impaired spontaneous decidualization. Overall, persistent inflammation, impaired spontaneous decidualization, and microbiota dysbiosis (i.e., an imbalance in the composition and function of endometrial microbiota) may be involved in the pathophysiology of adenomyosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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14 pages, 438 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Allelic Discrimination of Vitamin D Receptor Polymorphisms and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Case-Controlled Study

by Amal Ahmed Mohammed, Dina M. Abo El-Matty, Rola Abdel-Azeem, Khaled Raafat, Mona A. Hussein, Amira R. El-Ansary, Wael Hafez, Hatem Ahmed Hassan, Nourelhuda Ahmed Nassar, Nora Mahmoud Selim, Doaa Ghaith, Amal A. El Kholy, Soha M. Abd El Salam, Fatme Al Anouti and Alaa S. Wahba

Healthcare 2023, 11(4), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11040485 - 7 Feb 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3322

Abstract

(1) Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the rapidly growing healthcare problems, and several vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms seem to modulate the risk of T2DM. Our research was designed to investigate the allelic discrimination of VDR polymorphisms and T2DM [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the rapidly growing healthcare problems, and several vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms seem to modulate the risk of T2DM. Our research was designed to investigate the allelic discrimination of VDR polymorphisms and T2DM occurrence risk. (2) Methods: This case-control research included 156 patients with T2DM and 145 healthy control subjects. Most of the study population were males 56.6% vs. 62.8% in the case and control groups, respectively. Genotyping for VDR single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs228570 (Fok1), rs7975232 (Apa1), and rs1544410 (Bsm1) was compared between both groups. (3) Results: There was a negative link between vitamin D levels and insulin sensitivity. A significant difference was noted in the allelic discrimination of VDR polymorphism rs228570 and rs1544410 between the study groups (p < 0.001). No difference was observed in the allelic discrimination of VDR polymorphism rs7975232 between the groups (p = 0.063). Moreover, T2DM patients had significantly higher levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS), glycated hemoglobin HbA1c, 2-h post-prandial blood sugar (PP), serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), total cholesterol, and triglycerides (p < 0.001), while High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol (HDL-C) was significantly decreased (p = 0.006). (4) Conclusions: VDR polymorphisms had a positive association with T2DM risk among the Egyptian population. Further large-scale research using deep sequencing of samples is strongly urged to investigate different vitamin D gene variants and interactions, as well as the influence of vitamin D on T2DM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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11 pages, 3179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Multilocus Sequence Typing for the Characterization of Leptospira Strains in Malaysia

by Fairuz Amran, Nurul Atiqah Noor Halim, Ayu Haslin Muhammad, Mohd Khairul Nizam Mohd Khalid, Nur Mukmina Dasiman, Nadia Aqilla Shamsusah, Abdul Khalif Adha Abd Talib, Mohamed Asyraf Noh, Mohammad Ridhuan Mohd Ali and Rohaidah Hashim

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2023, 8(2), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8020069 - 17 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2046

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a common zoonotic disease in tropical and subtropical countries. It is considered an emerging disease in Malaysia and is a notifiable disease. This study was conducted to characterize Malaysian isolates from human, animal and environmental samples via MLST and rrs2 sequencing [...] Read more.

Leptospirosis is a common zoonotic disease in tropical and subtropical countries. It is considered an emerging disease in Malaysia and is a notifiable disease. This study was conducted to characterize Malaysian isolates from human, animal and environmental samples via MLST and rrs2 sequencing in an attempt to develop a Malaysian genotypic database. An existing polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based MLST scheme was performed to facilitate subsequent sequencing. Out of 46 extracted DNA, 36 had complete MLST profiles whereby all six genes were amplified and sequenced. Most of the pathogenic Leptospira genotypes with full MLST profiles were L. interrogans serogroup Bataviae (n = 17), followed by L. borgpetersenii serogroup Javanica (n = 9), L. interrogans serogroup Sejroe (n = 2), L. interrogans serogroup Australis (n = 2), L. kirschneri (n = 2), L. interrogans serogroup Grippotyphosa (n = 1) and L. interrogans serogroup Pyrogenes (n = 3). Two samples (R3_SER/17 and R4_SER/17) were not closely related with any of the reference strains. For the samples with incomplete MLST profiles, leptospiral speciation was conducted through rrs2 analysis, in which four samples were identified as L. borgpetersenii, five samples were closely related to L. kmetyi and one sample was known as L. yasudae. This study shows that molecular approaches that combine both MLST and rrs2 sequencing have great potential in the comprehensive characterization of pathogenic Leptospira because they can be performed directly from cultured and clinical samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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11 pages, 1440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcomes Associated with Physical Restraint in Acute Medical Inpatients over 4 Years—A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Umberto Spennato, Nathalie Lerjen, Jennifer Siegwart, Beat Mueller, Philipp Schuetz, Daniel Koch and Tristan Struja

Geriatrics 2023, 8(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics8010015 - 17 Jan 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6262

Abstract

Background: Physical restraints are frequently used in acute care hospitals. Their application is associated with negative outcomes, while their intended preventive effect is debated. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of physical restraints and associated outcomes on medical wards in a tertiary care hospital. [...] Read more.

Background: Physical restraints are frequently used in acute care hospitals. Their application is associated with negative outcomes, while their intended preventive effect is debated. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of physical restraints and associated outcomes on medical wards in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: Retrospective cohort study (January 2018 to December 2021). We included all adult medical in-patients and excluded patients with admission to the intensive care unit, short stays (length of stay (LOS) < 48 h), and patients declining informed consent. Results: Of 11,979 admissions, the prevalence of patients with at least one restraint was 6.4% (n = 772). Sensor mats were used most frequently (73.0%, n = 666), followed by blanket restrictions (14.5%, n = 132), bedrails (8.8%, n = 80) and belts (3.7%, n = 34). On average, restraints were applied 19 h (standard deviation (SD) ± 161) before a fall. Average restraint duration was 42 h (SD ± 57). Patients with a restraint had longer LOS 8 days (IQR 5–14) vs. 5 days (IQR 3–9). Median nurses’ time expenditure was 309 h (IQR 242–402) vs. 182 h (IQR 136–243) for non-restrained patients. Patients with restraints fell more often (22.5% vs. 2.7%) and were more likely to die (13.3% vs. 5.1%). These differences persisted after adjusting a regression model for important clinical confounders. We saw a decline in the duration of restraints over the years, but no variation between wards. Conclusion: Approximately 6% of medical patients, mostly older and severely ill, were affected by restraint use. For the first time, we report data over 4 years up to ward-level granularity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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13 pages, 1653 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vitamin C as a Potential Interplaying Factor between Obesity and COVID-19 Outcome

by Wael Hafez, Husam Saleh, Mahmoud Abdelshakor, Shougyat Ahmed, Sana Osman and Muneir Gador

Healthcare 2023, 11(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11010093 - 28 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2593

Abstract

(1) Background: Obesity is a risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes. Obesity can interfere with the action of vitamin C. The study aimed to investigate the association between BMI and severe outcomes of COVID-19 while considering vitamin C levels; (2) Methods: This was [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Obesity is a risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes. Obesity can interfere with the action of vitamin C. The study aimed to investigate the association between BMI and severe outcomes of COVID-19 while considering vitamin C levels; (2) Methods: This was a retrospective study of 63 COVID-19 patients treated at the NMC Royal Hospital, United Arab Emirates; (3) Results: There was no significant difference in vitamin C levels among patients in all BMI categories (p > 0.05). The risk of severe COVID-19 significantly increased by 5.4 times among class 1 obese patients compared with normal BMI (OR = 5.40, 95%CI: (1.54–21.05), p = 0.010). Vitamin C did not affect the risk of COVID-19 severity or mortality across BMI categories (p = 0.177, p > 0.05, respectively). The time till viral clearance was significantly different among patients in different BMI categories when vitamin C levels were considered (p = 0.02). Although there was no significant difference in vitamin C levels across BMI categories, there was a significant interaction between vitamin C levels and viral clearance rate in obese patients; (4) Conclusions: Given the safety of vitamin C supplements and our findings, proper vitamin C uptake and supplementation for patients of various BMI levels are encouraged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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18 pages, 4837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Body Mass Index and Clinical Outcomes in Adult COVID-19 Patients of Diverse Ethnicities

by Wael Hafez, Mahmoud Abdelshakor, Samy Kishk, Amr Gebril, Muneir Gador, Sana Osman, Hesham Mohamed Abuelsaoud and Ahmed Abdelrahman

Healthcare 2022, 10(12), 2575; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10122575 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 12562

Abstract

(1) Background: Body mass index (BMI) was observed to affect COVID-19 outcomes; however, the complete spectrum of clinical outcomes concerning BMI remains unexplored. The current study aimed to investigate the correlation between BMI and the severity and mortality of COVID-19, as well as [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Body mass index (BMI) was observed to affect COVID-19 outcomes; however, the complete spectrum of clinical outcomes concerning BMI remains unexplored. The current study aimed to investigate the correlation between BMI and the severity and mortality of COVID-19, as well as ICU admission, radiological findings, clinical presentation, and time to viral clearance. (2) Methods: This retrospective study included 1796 multiethnic patients with COVID-19 treated at NMC Royal Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE. (3) Results: COVID-19’s adjusted odds of severity increased by 3.7- and 21.5-fold in classes I and III, respectively (p = 0.001). The odds of mortality were not significantly different after adjustment for age, sex, and race. The adjusted odds of ICU admission increased significantly by 3-fold and non-significantly by 4-fold in obesity classes I and II, respectively. Pneumonia was significantly higher in patients who were overweight and class I, II, and III obese. Furthermore, class III obese patients had a greater risk of presenting with combined respiratory and gastrointestinal manifestations (p < 0.001). The median time to viral clearance with a BMI > 40 kg/m² was moderately higher than that with a BMI < 40 kg/m². (4) Conclusions: High BMI was associated with pneumonia, ICU admission, severity, and mortality due to COVID-19. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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4 pages, 206 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

COVID-19 Era and the Constantly Reemerging Novel SARS-CoV-2 Variants Calls for Special Attention for the Geriatrics: A Real Challenge

by L. V. Simhachalam Kutikuppala, Venkataramana Kandi, Ashish K. Sarangi, Snehasish Mishra and Ranjan K. Mohapatra

Geriatrics 2022, 7(6), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics7060143 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2151

Abstract

Global public health is significantly challenged due to the continuing COrona VIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak brought forth by the severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

16 pages, 8644 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socioeconomic Inequalities in the Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases among Older Adults in India

by Bikash Khura, Parimala Mohanty, Lipilekha Patnaik, Keerti Bhusan Pradhan, Jagdish Khubchandani and Bijaya Kumar Padhi

Geriatrics 2022, 7(6), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics7060137 - 5 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4107

Abstract

Understanding socioeconomic inequalities in non-communicable disease prevalence and preventive care usage can help design effective action plans for health equality programs among India’s aging population. Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are frequently used as model non-communicable diseases for research and policy purposes [...] Read more.

Understanding socioeconomic inequalities in non-communicable disease prevalence and preventive care usage can help design effective action plans for health equality programs among India’s aging population. Hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are frequently used as model non-communicable diseases for research and policy purposes as these two are the most prevalent NCDs in India and are the leading causes of mortality. For this investigation, data on 31,464 older persons (aged 60 years and above) who took part in the Longitudinal Ageing Survey of India (LASI: 2017–2018) were analyzed. The concentration index was used to assess socioeconomic inequality whereas relative inequalities indices were used to compare HTN, DM, and preventive care usage between the different groups of individuals based on socioeconomic status. The study reveals that wealthy older adults in India had a higher frequency of HTN and DM than the poor elderly. Significant differences in the usage of preventive care, such as blood pressure/blood glucose monitoring, were found among people with HTN or DM. Furthermore, economic position, education, type of work, and residential status were identified as important factors for monitoring inequalities in access to preventive care for HTN and DM. Disparities in non-communicable diseases can be both a cause and an effect of inequality across social strata in India. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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9 pages, 570 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Polypharmacy and Cardiovascular Autonomic Function among Elderly Patients in an Urban Municipality Area of Kolkata, India: A Record-Based Cross-Sectional Study

by Shambo Samrat Samajdar, Saibal Das, Sougata Sarkar, Shatavisa Mukherjee, Ashish Pathak, Cecilia Stålsby Lundborg, Indranil Saha, Santanu Kumar Tripathi, Jyotirmoy Pal, Nandini Chatterjee and Shashank R Joshi

Geriatrics 2022, 7(6), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics7060136 - 29 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2792

Abstract

We assessed the association between polypharmacy and cardiovascular autonomic function among community-dwelling elderly patients having chronic diseases. Three hundred and twenty-one patients from an urban municipality area of Kolkata, India were studied in August 2022. The anticholinergic burden and cardiac autonomic function (Valsalva [...] Read more.

We assessed the association between polypharmacy and cardiovascular autonomic function among community-dwelling elderly patients having chronic diseases. Three hundred and twenty-one patients from an urban municipality area of Kolkata, India were studied in August 2022. The anticholinergic burden and cardiac autonomic function (Valsalva ratio, orthostatic hypotension, change in diastolic blood pressure after an isometric exercise, and heart rate variability during expiration and inspiration) were evaluated. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to find out the association of polypharmacy and total anticholinergic burden with cardiac autonomic neuropathy. A total of 305 patients (age, 68.9 ± 3.4; 65.9% male) were included. Of these patients, 81 (26.6%) were on polypharmacy. Out of these 81 patients, 42 patients were on ninety-eight potential inappropriate medications. The anticholinergic burden and the proportion of patients with cardiac autonomic neuropathy were significantly higher among patients who were on polypharmacy than those who were not (8.1 ± 2.3 vs. 2.3 ± 0.9; p = 0.03 and 56.8% vs. 44.6%; p = 0.01). The presence of polypharmacy and a total anticholinergic burden of > 3 was significantly associated with cardiac autonomic neuropathy (aOR, 2.66; 95% CI, 0.91–3.98 and aOR, 2.51; 95% CI, 0.99–3.52, respectively). Thus, polypharmacy was significantly associated with cardiac autonomic neuropathy among community-dwelling elderly patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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12 pages, 2777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Age-Adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index on the Survival of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients after Radical Esophagectomy

by Jianyu Song, Yulan Lin, Juwei Zhang, Shuang Liu, Jinsong Zhou, Qiaoyan Zeng, Zheng Lin, Rong Fu, Minglian Qiu and Zhijian Hu

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(22), 6737; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11226737 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1958

Abstract

We aimed to investigate whether the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) can predict the postoperative overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients. Between 1 July 2015 and 31 July 2021, a retrospective cohort study was conducted [...] Read more.

We aimed to investigate whether the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (ACCI) can predict the postoperative overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients. Between 1 July 2015 and 31 July 2021, a retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients with primary ESCC who underwent radical esophagectomy. A total of 352 patients were included, with median age of 63.00 (IQR (interquartile range) 56.00–68.00). The patients were divided into low (n = 300) and high (n = 52) ACCI groups based on the optimal cut-off value of 5 points. Chronic pulmonary disease (38.4%) was the most common comorbidity. The results of the multivariate Cox regression showed that the ACCI (HR = 1.63, 95%CI: 1.04–2.56), tumor size (HR = 1.67, 95%CI: 1.05–2.66), pTNM (II vs. I, HR = 4.74, 95%CI: 1.82–12.32; III vs. I, HR = 6.08, 95%CI: 2.37–15.60), and postoperative chemotherapy (HR = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.40–0.91) were significantly associated with the OS. Furthermore, the ACCI, tumor size, pTNM, and postoperative chemotherapy were also significantly associated with the CSS. Interactions were identified between the ACCI and postoperative chemotherapy, pTNM stage, and tumor size in relation to the OS and CSS. In conclusion, the ACCI may be an independent prognostic factor affecting the long-term prognosis of patients after radical esophagectomy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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7 pages, 890 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Plasmapheresis for a Patient with Catatonia and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report and Literature Review

by Pei-Shan Tsai, Yu Chen, Shou-Yen Chen, Chung-Yuan Hsu, Jiao-En Wu, Chih-Chun Lee and Tien-Ming Chan

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(22), 6670; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11226670 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2447

Abstract

Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematous (NPSLE) encompasses various psychiatric and neurological manifestations that develop in patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), secondary to the involvement of the central nervous system (CNS). Although neuropsychiatric manifestations are commonly described in NPSLE, catatonia has been less frequently [...] Read more.

Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematous (NPSLE) encompasses various psychiatric and neurological manifestations that develop in patients with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), secondary to the involvement of the central nervous system (CNS). Although neuropsychiatric manifestations are commonly described in NPSLE, catatonia has been less frequently reported in patients with SLE. The roles of benzodiazepines (BZDs), immunosuppression, therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) have all been reported in the management of catatonia. Furthermore, another research reported that catatonic symptoms associated with NPSLE were considerably improved by TPE. We, herein, report a case of catatonia in a patient with newly diagnosed NPSLE who exhibited a favorable prognosis through the early initiation of systemic immunosuppressants and TPE. Furthermore, we have reviewed the literature on the role of medication and plasmapheresis (PP), or TPE, in the treatment of catatonia that is associated with SLE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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12 pages, 1520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling and Forecasting Monkeypox Cases Using Stochastic Models

by Moiz Qureshi, Shahid Khan, Rashad A. R. Bantan, Muhammad Daniyal, Mohammed Elgarhy, Roy Rillera Marzo and Yulan Lin

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(21), 6555; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11216555 - 4 Nov 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3232

Abstract

Background: Monkeypox virus is gaining attention due to its severity and spread among people. This study sheds light on the modeling and forecasting of new monkeypox cases. Knowledge about the future situation of the virus using a more accurate time series and stochastic [...] Read more.

Background: Monkeypox virus is gaining attention due to its severity and spread among people. This study sheds light on the modeling and forecasting of new monkeypox cases. Knowledge about the future situation of the virus using a more accurate time series and stochastic models is required for future actions and plans to cope with the challenge. Methods: We conduct a side-by-side comparison of the machine learning approach with the traditional time series model. The multilayer perceptron model (MLP), a machine learning technique, and the Box–Jenkins methodology, also known as the ARIMA model, are used for classical modeling. Both methods are applied to the Monkeypox cumulative data set and compared using different model selection criteria such as root mean square error, mean square error, mean absolute error, and mean absolute percentage error. Results: With a root mean square error of 150.78, the monkeypox series follows the ARIMA (7,1,7) model among the other potential models. Comparatively, we use the multilayer perceptron (MLP) model, which employs the sigmoid activation function and has a different number of hidden neurons in a single hidden layer. The root mean square error of the MLP model, which uses a single input and ten hidden neurons, is 54.40, significantly lower than that of the ARIMA model. The actual confirmed cases versus estimated or fitted plots also demonstrate that the multilayer perceptron model has a better fit for the monkeypox data than the ARIMA model. Conclusions and Recommendation: When it comes to predicting monkeypox, the machine learning method outperforms the traditional time series. A better match can be achieved in future studies by applying the extreme learning machine model (ELM), support vector machine (SVM), and some other methods with various activation functions. It is thus concluded that the selected data provide a real picture of the virus. If the situations remain the same, governments and other stockholders should ensure the follow-up of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) among the masses, as the trends will continue rising in the upcoming 10 days. However, governments should take some serious interventions to cope with the virus. Limitation: In the ARIMA models selected for forecasting, we did not incorporate the effect of covariates such as the effect of net migration of monkeypox virus patients, government interventions, etc. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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9 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Elderly People’s Memories about the Itinerary of the HIV/AIDS Diagnosis

by Alessandra de Oliveira, Luana Reis, Arianna Lopes, Elaine Santana, Pollyanna Lima, Thaiza Nobre and Luciana Reis

Geriatrics 2022, 7(5), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics7050119 - 20 Oct 2022

Viewed by 2123

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the remembrances of elderly people about their illness and the path taken in health services until diagnosis of HIV/AIDS. This is a cross-sectional and descriptive analytical study, with a qualitative approach and theoretical and methodological support from the [...] Read more.

This study aimed to analyze the remembrances of elderly people about their illness and the path taken in health services until diagnosis of HIV/AIDS. This is a cross-sectional and descriptive analytical study, with a qualitative approach and theoretical and methodological support from the social representations theory and conducted with 38 elderly people. A questionnaire with sociodemographic data, health conditions, and a script for semi-structured interviews was used. Data analysis was performed with the support of the QRS NVivo^® software and in light of Bardin’s content analysis. In relation to the itinerary to the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, the memories are from manifestations of opportunistic diseases and of a long trajectory with health problems and hospitalizations in search of a late diagnosis. The representation of death associated with the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS materializes for some with the loss of the partner in this process of searching for the diagnosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

8 pages, 223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Sex in Left Atrial Indices for Prognosis of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

by Shiro Hoshida, Koichi Tachibana, Nobutaka Masunaga, Yukinori Shinoda, Tomoko Minamisaka, Hirooki Inui, Keisuke Ueno, Masahiro Seo, Masamichi Yano, Takaharu Hayashi, Akito Nakagawa, Yusuke Nakagawa, Shunsuke Tamaki, Takahisa Yamada, Yoshio Yasumura, Yohei Sotomi, Shungo Hikoso, Daisaku Nakatani and Yasushi Sakata

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(19), 5910; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11195910 - 7 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1980

Abstract

Objective: We aim to clarify the differences in the association between re-admission for heart failure (HF) and left atrial (LA) overload indices by sex in heart failure and a preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Methods: We analyzed 898 HFpEF patients hospitalized for acute decompensated [...] Read more.

Objective: We aim to clarify the differences in the association between re-admission for heart failure (HF) and left atrial (LA) overload indices by sex in heart failure and a preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Methods: We analyzed 898 HFpEF patients hospitalized for acute decompensated HF. Blood tests and transthoracic echocardiography were performed before discharge. The primary endpoint was re-admission for HF during the first year. Results: The ratio of diastolic elastance to arterial elastance (p = 0.014), a relative index of LA pressure overload, in men and LA volume index (LAVI, p = 0.020) in women were significant for re-admission for HF during the first year in the multivariable Fine–Gray analysis. Stroke volume (SV)/LA volume (LAV), another index for LAV overload, was not a significant prognostic factor of re-admission for HF during this time. Conclusion: LA overload was an important prognostic factor for HF re-readmission during the first year after enrolment in patients with HFpEF, but the indices relating to LA overload differed by sex. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic One Health Approach in Global Health and Clinical Medicine)

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