Objective:The study aimed to determine the faculty of the health sciences students’knowledge and attitudes regarding the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional survey wa...Objective:The study aimed to determine the faculty of the health sciences students’knowledge and attitudes regarding the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional survey was completed with 317 undergraduate students of one health sciences faculty in Turkey.The data were collected between March 1,2020,and March 15,2020,by face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire created by the researchers.Number,percentage,mean,standard deviation,and Pearson Chi-square test were used to evaluate the data.Results:In this study,a high proportion of students answered questions about COVID-19 correctly.About 55.8%of the students took partial precautions against COVID-19 to protect themselves against COVID-19 and“frequent washing of hands”was the most common precaution.We determined that the main reasons for not taking any precautions against COVID-19 were“low number of cases in Turkey”and“getting irritated by the mask.”About 98.4%of the participants were entirely/partially following the news on COVID-19,with social media being the most commonly used medium.Female students took more protective measures than male students.The 1st-year students had more positive thoughts about vaccination compared to those in the other classes.Conclusions:Although the knowledge of the students about COVID-19 was good in the first wave of the pandemic,more than half of the students stated that they partially complied with the protective measures.展开更多
Introduction: Refractive error is recognized as one of the most important causes of correctable visual impairment and affects people of all ages, socioeconomic levels, and ethnic groups. The World Health Organization ...Introduction: Refractive error is recognized as one of the most important causes of correctable visual impairment and affects people of all ages, socioeconomic levels, and ethnic groups. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated 285 million people globally were visually impaired, with 39 million blinds. The aim of this study is to access the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of health sciences students about the refractive error in Nampula, Mozambique. Material and Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study including health sciences students of Lúrio University in Nampula, applying a questionnaire to access their knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning the refractive error. The collected data were entered into SPSS version 22.0 for analysis. Frequency distribution and central tendency measures (mean, median) were used to summarize the descriptive part of the study. Results were described using tables and running text. Sample students were included after obtaining informed consent. Results: A total of 298 students participated in the study, 50.3% female, with average age of 24 ± 5.4 years. 69.8% had an eye exam and 54.7% believe they have good vision, 58.1% say that wearing glasses is the main method of correcting refractive errors. 92.3% refer to the Central Hospital as the best place to provide eye health services. The main reason for not purchasing the glasses was their cost (47.3%) and the alternative method for spectacle users was contact lenses (81.0%). The students’ attitudes were positive towards the use of glasses. Conclusion: Visual health education about the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding refractive errors among students must be intensified to ensure good dissemination of information in the surrounding communities enrolled in the health promotion program “One Student, One Family” implemented by Lúrio University in Nampula.展开更多
Objectives:To evaluate the occurrence of depression and its related factors among public health nurses(PHNs)engaged in child neglect-related abuse cases.Methods:A cross-sectional study of PHNs involved in maternal and...Objectives:To evaluate the occurrence of depression and its related factors among public health nurses(PHNs)engaged in child neglect-related abuse cases.Methods:A cross-sectional study of PHNs involved in maternal and child health or child and family welfare,and engaged in cases of child neglect-related abuse was conducted from January to March 2023 in all municipalities of 13 prefectures selected from Japan's seven regions,considering geographic diversity and major urban areas.The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 was used to screen for depression.Statistical analyses included the Chi-square test,Mann-Whitney U test,and logistic regression analysis.Results:A total of 359 provided valid responses.Among them,11.4%screened positive for depression.Significant individual factors related depression were management-stage nurses(OR=6.27,95%CI:1.63-24.18),no disability welfare experience(OR=3.49,95%CI:1.05-11.55),being assignment of highrisk cases within the past year(OR=8.28,95%CI:2.07-33.08),and lower work control(OR=0.53,95%CI:0.32-0.86).Workplace environment factors were lower perceptions and relationships within the workplace(OR=0.43,95%CI:0.29-0.65)and perceiving manpower as not secured(OR=9.07,95%CI:1.17-70.40),Conclusions:Mental health measures for PHNs should include workload management and reduced burdens through workforce enhancement,attention to burdens on managerial PHNs,promoting communication and mutual support,and opportunities to engage in disability welfare work.展开更多
BACKGROUND Given their responsibility for the well-being of individuals,nurses with advanced mental health literacy,along with strong holistic nursing competencies and professional self-efficacy,are better equipped to...BACKGROUND Given their responsibility for the well-being of individuals,nurses with advanced mental health literacy,along with strong holistic nursing competencies and professional self-efficacy,are better equipped to assess both the mental and physical health of their patients,leading to the provision of holistic nursing care.AIM To investigate the relationship between nurses’mental health literacy levels and their holistic nursing competencies,as well as their nursing professional selfefficacy.METHODS This study is cross-sectional,correlational research.The study sample consisted of a total of 261 volunteer nurses working in a training and research hospital and a state hospital between March 11,2024 and April 8,2024.Data were collected face to face with the“Descriptive Data Form”,“Mental Health Literacy Scale(MHLS)”,“Holistic Nursing Competence Scale(HNCS)”,and the“Nursing Profession Self-Efficacy Scale(NPSES)”.RESULTS The mean scale scores for the nurses were as follows:MHLS:95.88±11.67;HNCS:179.46±33.82;NPSES:64.79±11.24.A low-level positive correlation was found between the total scores of the MHLS,HNCS,and NPSES,and a moderate-level positive correlation was observed between the total scores of the HNCS and NPSES.These correlations were statistically significant(P<0.05).CONCLUSION It is recommended that initiatives be undertaken to enhance the mental health literacy and holistic nursing competencies of nurses and that similar studies be conducted with nurses in different institutions and with a larger number of nurses.展开更多
Background:This study examined the development of Tai Chi in Ottawa,Canada,focusing on:(1)traditions and modernization of Tai Chi in China's mainland;(2)the evolution of Ottawa’s Chinese community;and(3)the role ...Background:This study examined the development of Tai Chi in Ottawa,Canada,focusing on:(1)traditions and modernization of Tai Chi in China's mainland;(2)the evolution of Ottawa’s Chinese community;and(3)the role of Ottawa Tai Chi Chuan Association(OTCA)and Taoist Tai Chi Society(TTCS)-in promoting Tai Chi and traditional health practices rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)in Ottawa.Methods:Archive research was used to investigate origins,organizational structures,and programs of the associations.Documents were obtained from the personal collections,websites,and Ottawa Archives.Secondary literature on Tai Chi’s history in China and Chinese immigration to Ottawa provided contextual insights.Results:In the twentieth century,Tai Chi in China's mainland underwent significant transformations,aligning with nation-building,social reform,public health promotion,and cultural influence.Since the 1970s,the demographic composition of Canada’s Chinese community has become diversified.Some community members played a critical role in transmitting Tai Chi to Canada by establishing OTCA and TTCS.Through a variety of Tai Chi programs,workshops,and community engagement,OTCA and TTCS promoted Tai Chi as a holistic health practice rooted in TCM and traditional cultural principles in different approaches.OTCA primarily served the Chinese community,focusing on diverse forms,techniques,and theories.In contrast,Ottawa’s TTCS,as a satellite association,emphasized Taoist-inspired Tai Chi and cultivation passed down by the founder,Moy Linshin,to accommodate members from diverse cultural backgrounds.OTCA and TTCS created inclusive mind-body communities for individuals to engage in Tai Chi as a culturally meaningful practice and a means of fostering social connection and holistic wellness.Conclusion:OTCA and TTCS significantly revitalized while adapted Tai Chi and TCM practices to Western contexts,integrating its historical roots with western health ideas to establish it as a widely recognized mind-body discipline and alternative therapy.展开更多
Objective:Sick building syndrome(SBS)is a significant health concern among healthcare workers,exacerbated by prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants and inadequate environmental conditions.Our study aims to explor...Objective:Sick building syndrome(SBS)is a significant health concern among healthcare workers,exacerbated by prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants and inadequate environmental conditions.Our study aims to explore the prevalence of SBS and its association with indoor air quality and workplace environments among healthcare workers in five hospital departments in Nakhon Si Thammarat,Thailand.Methods:Indoor air quality was assessed over eight days,measuring microbial concentrations(bacteria,fungi),temperature,humidity,and carbon dioxide levels.Demographic data and SBS symptoms were also collected from healthcare workers.Results:The findings revealed that fungal concentrations were highest in the pharmacy(51.95±37.59)colony forming units(CFU)per m^(3),while bacterial concentrations peaked in the outpatient department(265.06±49.46)CFU/m3.The study identified Staphylococcus hominis and Micrococcus luteus as the dominant microbial species in the air environment.A moderate positive correlation was found between bacterial concentrations and humidity(r=0.43,P=0.046).SBS symptoms were prevalent among healthcare workers,with 75.58%reporting issues like dry eyes and fatigue.The total complaint score for SBS correlated positively with indoor pollutant levels,especially fungi(r=0.38,P<0.001).Frequent cleaning reduced SBS complaints significantly(P<0.001).Conclusion:Hospital departments with more frequent cleaning practices exhibited lower SBS complaints,highlighting the importance of cleaning frequency in reducing SBS-related issues.These findings provide actionable insights for improving workplace safety and indoor air quality in healthcare settings.展开更多
Introduction: Obstetric Fistulas (OF) constitute a major public health problem in developing countries in general and in Central African Republic (CAR) in particular because of its numerous consequences. The objective...Introduction: Obstetric Fistulas (OF) constitute a major public health problem in developing countries in general and in Central African Republic (CAR) in particular because of its numerous consequences. The objective of this work is to contribute to the management of OF cases in CAR. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive and analytical study, including data from several OF care services. The study included 245 cases of OF, operated on from 2009 to 2018. The parameters studied were maternal and obstetrical data, sociodemographic data, the specific characteristics of the fistulas as well as the modalities and outcome of surgical treatment. The data collected came from six (6) OF surgical repair campaigns organized by the Ministry of Health and Population with the support of UNFPA. Results: We recorded 245 patients, representing a prevalence of 0.77% of OF per year. Among these patients, almost half (45.3%) were treated at the Sino-Central African Friendship University Hospital Center (CHUASC). The average age of the patients was 30 years (range 14 to 78 years). They were unschooled (53.9%) and primigravidas (35%). The fistulas had an average duration of evolution of 7.58 years. They were vesicovaginal in 25.3%. Types V and I dominated in 17.4% and 9.2%, respectively. In 85.9% of cases, fistulorrhaphy was performed, half of which (50.2%) via the upper route. The cure rate was 83.3%. Note that our study reveals statistically significant links between the evolution after surgery with age (p = 0.04 Conclusion: OF mainly affected women of childbearing age, uneducated, primiparous. Vesicovaginal fistula was the frequently encountered type and was manifested by urine loss clinically with a positive methylene blue test.展开更多
Still common in developing countries, acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is not only a disease of children and adolescents, but can also occur in adults. At this age, the diagnosis of rheumatic flare-ups can be difficult due...Still common in developing countries, acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is not only a disease of children and adolescents, but can also occur in adults. At this age, the diagnosis of rheumatic flare-ups can be difficult due to the frequency of other types of joint diseases and the existence of degenerative and dystrophic valve disease. In adults, the initial rheumatic attack is marked by the predominance of joint damage over cardiac damage. However, it is often at this age that rheumatic valve disease is discovered. The revised Jones criteria also find their place in the diagnosis of AAR in adults. Objective: To study the demographic, clinical, and biological characteristics of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) in the General Medicine Department of the Siguiri Prefectural Hospital. Materials and Methods: This descriptive observational study examined the demographic, clinical and biological characteristics of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) at the Siguiri Prefectural Hospital, Guinea, between April 1 and September 31, 2021 according to Jones criteria. The data were collected on a form containing sociodemographic variables (age, sex, profession), rheumatological, cardiac, pulmonary and neurological clinical signs, biological variables and treatment. Results: Figure 1 shows the flow of the hospital frequency of the RAA in the General Medicine Department of the Prefectural Hospital of Siguiri. During the study period, 420 patients were hospitalized, of whom 161 patients had AAR, a frequency of 38.33%. Table 1 shows the distribution of patients diagnosed with ARB, by sociodemographic characteristics. The average age was 44.7 ± 19.78 years and the extremes of 14 and 90 years, the female sex dominated with a ratio of 0.75. The informal sector was in the majority in 45.34% of cases and most were illiterate, i.e. 53.42%. In our study, the incidence was lower during the dry season than during the rainy season, a hot season with high rainfall and humidity, the rainy period was a provider with a peak in August and September. The lifestyle was characterized by overcrowding in 87.58% of patients. The main complaint was fever, i.e. 88.82%. Rheumatological manifestations such as arthritis were 98.14%, chest pain was 37.89% (61 cases). The diagnosis was confirmed by ASLO titration in 85.71% of patients and 98.55% (136 cases) had a titration greater than 400 U/ml. Conclusion: The results obtained from our study show a high prevalence of acute rheumatic fever, which makes it a worrying health problem in the Siguiri health district. Young female adult patients, married with an informal profession and not in school residing in Siguiri were the most encountered in our study. The main functional signs mentioned by the patients were fever, cough and abdominal pain;osteoarticular pain and chest pain dominated the clinical picture. Almost all of our patients had an ASLO titer greater than 400 U/ml and a positive C-reactive protein. Our results show a high risk of spread of acute rheumatic fever within the population of Siguiri. Due to the serious complications caused by acute rheumatic fever, particular attention must be paid to it by carrying out other, much larger studies in order to identify the problem of RAA.展开更多
BACKGROUND The rising global burden of liver diseases,such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis,has necessitated innovative therapeutic approaches.Plant-based therapies,recognized for their anti-inf...BACKGROUND The rising global burden of liver diseases,such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis,has necessitated innovative therapeutic approaches.Plant-based therapies,recognized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,have shown promising effects.However,poor bioavailability limits their clinical application.AIM To map global research trends,key contributors,and emerging themes in plant-based therapies combined with advanced drug delivery systems for liver health.METHODS Using the Scopus database,645 documents were retrieved and analyzed using bibliometric tools Biblioshiny and VOSviewer.Analysis focused on publication trends,geographical contributions,and advancements in drug delivery technologies,including nanoparticles,liposomes,and polymeric micelles.Metrics such as publication growth rate,authorship collaboration,and thematic clustering were assessed.RESULTS The dataset spans 43 years(1981-2024),with an annual growth rate of 11.09%in the number of publications.Research output is dominated by China(33%),followed by the United States(24%)and India(18%).Collaborative studies accounted for 24.34%of publications,with an average of 5.81 co-authors per document.Key innovations include nanoparticle encapsulation of curcumin and silymarin,improving bioavailability by up to 85%.Highly cited studies demonstrated the antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-fibrotic properties of these compounds.For instance,curcumin nanoparticles showed a 70%improvement in solubility,and silymarin liposomal formulations enhanced therapeutic efficiency by 62%.Thematic analysis revealed a transition from basic clinical observations to molecular and pharmacokinetic research,with a focus on oxidative stress mitigation and hepatoprotection.CONCLUSION This study highlights the growing synergy between plant-based therapies and advanced drug delivery systems,with significant contributions from Asian and Western countries.Future efforts should prioritize clinical trials,standardization of plant extract formulations,and interdisciplinary approaches to maximize therapeutic outcomes.The findings provide a foundation for integrating plant-derived compounds into evidence-based hepatological therapies,addressing critical challenges in bioavailability and safety.展开更多
Remembrance activities can support the Culture of Care(CoC)in Laboratory Animal Science(LAS)not only by promoting a culture of respect,gratitude and thankfulness for animal life but also by helping the emotional proce...Remembrance activities can support the Culture of Care(CoC)in Laboratory Animal Science(LAS)not only by promoting a culture of respect,gratitude and thankfulness for animal life but also by helping the emotional processing and healing of lab animal researchers and animal facility staff.Even though remembrance activities are practiced in many parts of the world,we did not come across any reported cases in Sri Lanka before 2022.Therefore,here,we report on the various remembrance activities and practices observed within our local scientific community.展开更多
Background Relative energy deficiency in sport(REDs)results from exposure to problematic low energy availability.It is a serious condition affecting the health and athletic performance of up to 80%of elite female athl...Background Relative energy deficiency in sport(REDs)results from exposure to problematic low energy availability.It is a serious condition affecting the health and athletic performance of up to 80%of elite female athletes.REDs is established to have negative short-term effects on reproductive function,but the long-term impact of this condition is unknown.Therefore,we examined the impact of secondary amenorrhea with or without a concurrent diagnosis of REDs on perinatal health outcomes.Methods Postpartum individuals(≥18 years of age)completed an online questionnaire that covered demographics,reproductive history(including a diagnosis of REDs or secondary amenorrhea),and maternal/fetal health outcomes.Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between previously diagnosed REDs or secondary amenorrhea with perinatal health outcomes.Results A total of 1025 previously pregnant participants completed the survey(33.1±3.4 years,mean±SD).Prior to pregnancy,6.1%had been previously diagnosed with REDs and 20.5%had a history with secondary amenorrhea.Individuals diagnosed with REDs had 3.5-times higher odds of having premature labor(odds ratio,(OR)=3.52,95%confidence interval(95%CI):1.26–9.81)and 2.6-times higher odds of preterm delivery(OR=2.62,95%CI:1.05–6.58)compared to those who had not experienced REDs or secondary amenorrhea.However,in individuals who did not have a history of REDs,secondary amenorrhea did not increase the odds of adverse pregnancy or delivery outcomes.Conclusion A history of REDs,but not secondary amenorrhea,may increase the odds of premature labor and preterm delivery.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the influence of ethnicity in social anxiety disorder(SAD), and the relationship with symptom severity, depression and substance use or abuse, in health sciences' students.METHODS: This was a c...AIM: To investigate the influence of ethnicity in social anxiety disorder(SAD), and the relationship with symptom severity, depression and substance use or abuse, in health sciences' students.METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey of 112 1st, 2nd and 3rd year students from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa. The self-reported Social Anxiety Spectrum questionnaire was used to assess for SAD. The Social Phobia Inventory(SPIN) was adapted to a version called the E-SPIN(Ethnic-SPIN) in order to evaluate the effects of ethnicity. Two sub-questions per stem question were included to assess whether SAD symptoms in social interactions were ethnicity dependent. Substance use was assessed with the Alcohol UseDisorders Identification Test and Drug Use Disorders Identification Test, and depression with the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.RESULTS: Of 112 students who completed the E-SPIN questionnaire, 54.4%(n = 61) met criteria for SAD, with significantly more females than males meeting criteria. Ethnicity had a significant effect on SAD symptomatology, but there was no effect of ethnicity on the rates of drug and alcohol abuse in students with and without SAD. Overall significantly more students with SAD met criteria for depression compared with students without the disorder. CONCLUSION: Among university students, SAD is prevalent regardless of whether interactions are with individuals of the same or different ethnic group. However, ethnicity may be an important determinant of social anxiety for some ethnic groups. SAD was significantly associated with major depression but not significantly associated with drug or alcohol abuse.展开更多
Background: The irrational use of medicines remains a key health problem in many developing countries. The overuse of antibiotics is a key driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study surveyed antibiotic use a...Background: The irrational use of medicines remains a key health problem in many developing countries. The overuse of antibiotics is a key driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study surveyed antibiotic use and adherence to the World Health Organization (WHO) prescribing indicators at the Request Muntanga Hospital in the Kalomo District of Southern Province, Zambia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to September 2023 at Request Muntanga Hospital in Zambia and reviewed 600 medical record prescriptions which were issued from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 using the WHO prescribing indicators. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0. Results: From the 600 prescriptions sampled, 1246 medicines were prescribed, with antibiotics making up 86.7% of the encounters. Additionally, the average number of drugs prescribed per encounter was 2.1 and the prevalence of polypharmacy was 61.3%. Further, 17.8% of medicines were prescribed as injectables. Furthermore, 76.7% of the drugs were prescribed from the Zambia Essential Medicines List and 38.9% by generic names. Conclusions: This study found a high use of antibiotics and deviations from the WHO/International Network of Rational Use of Drugs (INRUD) core prescribing indicators at the Request Muntanga Hospital indicating non-adherence to the prescribing indicators. There is a need to promote adherence to the WHO/INRUD core prescribing indicators to promote the rational use of antibiotics and prevent the emergence and spread of AMR.展开更多
In sub-Saharan Africa, foodborne Salmonella infections cause around 680,000 deaths per year. The evolutionary aspects of the incidence of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella strains no longer seem to attract much inte...In sub-Saharan Africa, foodborne Salmonella infections cause around 680,000 deaths per year. The evolutionary aspects of the incidence of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella strains no longer seem to attract much interest in the Central African Republic (CAR), although salmonellosis remains a health problem requiring national and international surveillance. Methodology: The study conducted at the National Laboratory of Clinical Biology and Public Health, Bangui, Central African Republic (LNBCSP) was a retrospective descriptive study. The study duration was five years (January 2019 to December 2023). The study sample consisted of patients who underwent bacteriological testing of stool, blood and urine samples for Salmonella at the LNBCSP in Bangui during this period. Study variables were age, sex, year and bacteriological test results. Statistical tests were used to compare incidences. Relative risks (RR) were calculated to measure the degree of association. Results: From 2019 to 2023, we recorded 353 Salmonella strains, of which 5% were found in blood, 37% in urine and 58% in stool. Patient age ranged from 1 to 86 years, with a mean of 27 ± 22.05 years and a mode of 5 years. Children aged 0 to 14 years (34%) and females (55.81%) predominated. The highest rate of contamination by Salmonella strains was 1.69% in 2022. The overall incidence of salmonellosis was 6.72 in 2019, 7.05 in 2020, 6.91 in 2021, 16.9 in 2022 and 6.26 in 2023 per 1000 samples. Resistance was 30.47% to β_lactam antibiotics, 24.22% to fluroquinolones and 37.97% to Salmonella spp. For Salmonella arizonae strains, resistance was 20.25% to aminoglycosides, 43.67% to chloramphenicol and 7.59% to imipenem. Conclusion: Laboratory-based surveillance of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella strains is needed in both human and veterinary medicine. Another study based on molecular characterization will identify new antibiotic-resistant variants circulating in CAR.展开更多
Drug development for Alzheimer’s disease is extremely challenging,as demonstrated by the repeated failures of amyloid-β-targeted therapeutics and the controversies surrounding the amyloid-βcascade hypothesis.More r...Drug development for Alzheimer’s disease is extremely challenging,as demonstrated by the repeated failures of amyloid-β-targeted therapeutics and the controversies surrounding the amyloid-βcascade hypothesis.More recently,advances in the development of Lecanemab,an anti-amyloid-βmonoclonal antibody,have shown positive results in reducing brain A burden and slowing cognitive decline in patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease in the Phase Ⅲ clinical trial(Clarity Alzheimer’s disease).Despite these promising results,side effects such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities(ARIA)may limit its usage.ARIA can manifest as ARIA-E(cerebral edema or effusions)and ARIA-H(microhemorrhages or superficial siderosis)and is thought to be caused by increased vascular permeability due to inflammatory responses,leading to leakages of blood products and protein-rich fluid into brain parenchyma.Endothelial dysfunction is an early pathological feature of Alzheimer’s disease,and the blood-brain barrier becomes increasingly leaky as the disease progresses.In addition,APOE4,the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease,is associated with higher vascular amyloid burden,increased ARIA incidence,and accelerated blood-brain barrier disruptions.These interconnected vascular abnormalities highlight the importance of vascular contributions to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease.Here,we will closely examine recent research evaluating the heterogeneity of brain endothelial cells in the microvasculature of different brain regions and their relationships with Alzheimer’s disease progression.展开更多
AIM: To determine the distributions of central corneal thickness(CCT) and intraocular pressure(IOP) in emmetropic eyes of healthy children of Palestine.METHODS: This representative cross sectional study included a tot...AIM: To determine the distributions of central corneal thickness(CCT) and intraocular pressure(IOP) in emmetropic eyes of healthy children of Palestine.METHODS: This representative cross sectional study included a total of 1156 eyes from 578 healthy school children aged 7-15 y. Inclusion criteria included emmetropia, no previous history of ocular or systemic diseases, no previous history of contact lens use, and the availability of both eyes. CCT and IOP were measured using ultrasound pachymeter and Goldmann applanation tonometer, respectively. The relationship of the results with age and gender was investigated.RESULTS: The mean age of school children was 11.13±2.8 y. Mean CCT was 542.2±37.4 and 544.3±39.2 μm for right and left eyes, respectively. Mean IOP was 12.5±2.2 and 12.3±2.2 mm Hg for right and left eyes, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between CCT and IOP of the right eye(P<0.001, R=0.358) and CCT and IOP of the left eye(P<0.001, R=0.324). No significant differences were observed in CCT and IOP due to age or gender(P>0.05). There were significant differences in mean CCT and IOP between right and left eyes(P=0.004, P=0.001, respectively).CONCLUSION: A population profile of CCT and IOP is established in Palestinian children for the first time. Mean CCT is comparable to some studies but differ from others. Mean IOP is considerably lower than that of majority children of other ethnic groups. Intereye difference of more than 36 μm in CCT, and 5 mm Hg in IOP should prompt evaluation for potential ocular disorders.展开更多
Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether street basketball organized as 3 v 3 on either a half court(HC) with 1 basket or a full court(FC) with 2 baskets could improve fitness and health profil...Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether street basketball organized as 3 v 3 on either a half court(HC) with 1 basket or a full court(FC) with 2 baskets could improve fitness and health profiles of untrained men after 3 months of supervised training.Methods: Thirty-five untrained men(aged 20—42 years) completed the pre-and post-intervention testing(FC: n = 13, HC: n = 12, CO(control):n = 10). The training attendance was 2.0 ± 0.4 and 1.9 ± 0.3 times per week in FC and HC, respectively. Mean heart rate(HR) was 83.8 ± 6.0 percent of maximal heart rate(%HR_(max)) and 84.5 ± 2.9 %HR_(max) in FC and HC, respectively.Results: The 3 months of street basketball training on an FC with 2 baskets increased maximal oxygen uptake(2.4 mL/min/kg(95% confidence interval(CI): 1.0—3.9)), time to exhaustion(47 s(95%CI: 26—67)), lean body mass(0.8 kg(95%CI: 0.1—1.5)), and bone mineral density(0.021 g/cm^2(95%CI: 0.011—0.031)), whereas mean arterial pressure(—5.6 mm Hg(95%CI: —7.5 to 3.7)), body fat percentage(—1.6%,(95%CI: —2.5 to —0.7)), heart rate(—18 bpm(95%CI: —24 to —12)), and blood lactate(median: —1.4 mmol/L(interquartile range: —1.5 to —0.6)) during submaximal running were lowered. The changes were less pronounced after the training period when playing on an HC with 1 basket, but increases in maximal oxygen uptake(1.6 mL/min/kg(95%CI: —0.1 to 3.3)), time to exhaustion(28 s(95%CI: 9—47)), lean body mass(1.3 kg(95%CI: 0.3—2.4)), and lower body fat percentage(—0.9%(95%CI: —1.9 to —0.1)) were observed in this group.Conclusion: Three months of 3 v 3 street basketball training improved fitness and led to broad-spectrum improvements in variables related to overall health profile, with the most marked effects observed when playing on an FC with 2 baskets.展开更多
Objective:This study aimed to identify factors predicting diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malang City,East Java,Indonesia.Methods:A cross-sectional design was used in this study....Objective:This study aimed to identify factors predicting diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malang City,East Java,Indonesia.Methods:A cross-sectional design was used in this study.Participants were selected from five primary health centers in Malang City,East Java,Indonesia using the multistage sampling method.A total of 127 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus were recruited.Data were collected by questionnaires which were the general diabetes knowledge,the Beliefs of Treatment Effectiveness,the Diabetes Distress Scale,the Self-efficacy for Diabetes Scale,the brief Chronic Illness Resources Survey,the Situational Questionnaire and the Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities.A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data.Multiple linear regression with stepwise method was used toanalyze the data.Results:The scores of seven questionnaires(i.e,diabetes knowledge,perceived benefit of diabetes self-management,diabetes distress,perceived self-efficacy,social support,situational influence,and diabetes self-management)were 13.75±3.59,34.9±4.89,3.03±0.86,3.60±0.53,27.79±5.56,3.27±0.58,3.81±1.08,respectively.The significant predictors of diabetes self-management were treatment,perceived self-efficacy,and situational influences.These variables explained 20.8%(adjusted R^(2)=0.208)of the variance in diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malang City.Conclusion:Diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus could be improved by enhancing their perceived self-efficacy to achieve their self-management behavior,such as having a healthy diet,exercising regularly,actively monitoring blood glucose level,taking medication and foot care,and providing support to promote good situational influence.展开更多
Objectives: Research has highlighted the importance of regular exercise within the general population and mental health groups in regard to mood and self-esteem, as well as single bout exercise within the general popu...Objectives: Research has highlighted the importance of regular exercise within the general population and mental health groups in regard to mood and self-esteem, as well as single bout exercise within the general population. However, research into single bout exercise in mental health population is lacking. This study investigated the impact of a single bout of exercise, on mood and self-esteem, in patients with a wider clinical mental health diagnosis. Design: A quantitative questionnaire was completed immediately pre and post a single, 45 minute bout of moderate intensity exercise, consisting of the Brunel Universal Mood States (BRUMS) questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSE). Methods: Participants attending a mental health hospital with a clinical mental health diagnosis (N = 54) completed the questionnaire. Information regarding physical activity levels, mental health diagnosis and length of hospital stay were collated. Results: A significant improvement was identified on the RSE as well as the BRUMS (depression, anger, confusion, anxious tension and vigour) over time. Conclusion: The significant findings highlight the importance of exercise promotion within this population group, and the potentially beneficial role that a single bout of exercise can have on mood and self-esteem in patients experiencing mental health problems.展开更多
BACKGROUND: According to the fact that women account for the highest rate of victims of mental health loss during disasters, prioritization of their requirements is of remarkable signifi cance. Therefore, the present ...BACKGROUND: According to the fact that women account for the highest rate of victims of mental health loss during disasters, prioritization of their requirements is of remarkable signifi cance. Therefore, the present study was carried out with the aim to prioritize factors related to women's mental health during an earthquake. METHODS: This study was conducted using the Delphi method in 2017. Participants consisted of experts including psychologists, counselors and psychiatrists, social medicine specialists, and psychiatric-mental health nurses with experience in service and disaster awareness, especially earthquake. They were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. The Delphi method was used in 2 rounds with 21 components and the fi nal attendance of 19 participants and the collective agreement of 75%. RESULTS: Of the 21 factors related to women's mental health during the earthquake, the following components were, respectively, preferred by the participants: psychological well-being training, group relationships and support of women in emergency situations, fair treatment in the provision of rights and services to women, crisis awareness and management of behavior and diffi cult conditions, and social security during disasters with the total mean standard deviation (SD) of 13.4 (2.4), 13.0 (2.4), 12.7 (2.5), 12.5 (2.4), and 12.3 (2.2), respectively. CONCLUSION: Training in the fi eld of psychology and disasters, and social and cultural factors were prioritized among factors related to women's mental health during an earthquake. Therefore, the results of this study can be applied by the planners and executives of mental health, women and disasters, and the women's community itself.展开更多
文摘Objective:The study aimed to determine the faculty of the health sciences students’knowledge and attitudes regarding the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional survey was completed with 317 undergraduate students of one health sciences faculty in Turkey.The data were collected between March 1,2020,and March 15,2020,by face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire created by the researchers.Number,percentage,mean,standard deviation,and Pearson Chi-square test were used to evaluate the data.Results:In this study,a high proportion of students answered questions about COVID-19 correctly.About 55.8%of the students took partial precautions against COVID-19 to protect themselves against COVID-19 and“frequent washing of hands”was the most common precaution.We determined that the main reasons for not taking any precautions against COVID-19 were“low number of cases in Turkey”and“getting irritated by the mask.”About 98.4%of the participants were entirely/partially following the news on COVID-19,with social media being the most commonly used medium.Female students took more protective measures than male students.The 1st-year students had more positive thoughts about vaccination compared to those in the other classes.Conclusions:Although the knowledge of the students about COVID-19 was good in the first wave of the pandemic,more than half of the students stated that they partially complied with the protective measures.
文摘Introduction: Refractive error is recognized as one of the most important causes of correctable visual impairment and affects people of all ages, socioeconomic levels, and ethnic groups. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated 285 million people globally were visually impaired, with 39 million blinds. The aim of this study is to access the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of health sciences students about the refractive error in Nampula, Mozambique. Material and Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study including health sciences students of Lúrio University in Nampula, applying a questionnaire to access their knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning the refractive error. The collected data were entered into SPSS version 22.0 for analysis. Frequency distribution and central tendency measures (mean, median) were used to summarize the descriptive part of the study. Results were described using tables and running text. Sample students were included after obtaining informed consent. Results: A total of 298 students participated in the study, 50.3% female, with average age of 24 ± 5.4 years. 69.8% had an eye exam and 54.7% believe they have good vision, 58.1% say that wearing glasses is the main method of correcting refractive errors. 92.3% refer to the Central Hospital as the best place to provide eye health services. The main reason for not purchasing the glasses was their cost (47.3%) and the alternative method for spectacle users was contact lenses (81.0%). The students’ attitudes were positive towards the use of glasses. Conclusion: Visual health education about the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding refractive errors among students must be intensified to ensure good dissemination of information in the surrounding communities enrolled in the health promotion program “One Student, One Family” implemented by Lúrio University in Nampula.
基金funded by a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research(JP19K19762,JP 23K10258)from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science,Japan.
文摘Objectives:To evaluate the occurrence of depression and its related factors among public health nurses(PHNs)engaged in child neglect-related abuse cases.Methods:A cross-sectional study of PHNs involved in maternal and child health or child and family welfare,and engaged in cases of child neglect-related abuse was conducted from January to March 2023 in all municipalities of 13 prefectures selected from Japan's seven regions,considering geographic diversity and major urban areas.The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 was used to screen for depression.Statistical analyses included the Chi-square test,Mann-Whitney U test,and logistic regression analysis.Results:A total of 359 provided valid responses.Among them,11.4%screened positive for depression.Significant individual factors related depression were management-stage nurses(OR=6.27,95%CI:1.63-24.18),no disability welfare experience(OR=3.49,95%CI:1.05-11.55),being assignment of highrisk cases within the past year(OR=8.28,95%CI:2.07-33.08),and lower work control(OR=0.53,95%CI:0.32-0.86).Workplace environment factors were lower perceptions and relationships within the workplace(OR=0.43,95%CI:0.29-0.65)and perceiving manpower as not secured(OR=9.07,95%CI:1.17-70.40),Conclusions:Mental health measures for PHNs should include workload management and reduced burdens through workforce enhancement,attention to burdens on managerial PHNs,promoting communication and mutual support,and opportunities to engage in disability welfare work.
文摘BACKGROUND Given their responsibility for the well-being of individuals,nurses with advanced mental health literacy,along with strong holistic nursing competencies and professional self-efficacy,are better equipped to assess both the mental and physical health of their patients,leading to the provision of holistic nursing care.AIM To investigate the relationship between nurses’mental health literacy levels and their holistic nursing competencies,as well as their nursing professional selfefficacy.METHODS This study is cross-sectional,correlational research.The study sample consisted of a total of 261 volunteer nurses working in a training and research hospital and a state hospital between March 11,2024 and April 8,2024.Data were collected face to face with the“Descriptive Data Form”,“Mental Health Literacy Scale(MHLS)”,“Holistic Nursing Competence Scale(HNCS)”,and the“Nursing Profession Self-Efficacy Scale(NPSES)”.RESULTS The mean scale scores for the nurses were as follows:MHLS:95.88±11.67;HNCS:179.46±33.82;NPSES:64.79±11.24.A low-level positive correlation was found between the total scores of the MHLS,HNCS,and NPSES,and a moderate-level positive correlation was observed between the total scores of the HNCS and NPSES.These correlations were statistically significant(P<0.05).CONCLUSION It is recommended that initiatives be undertaken to enhance the mental health literacy and holistic nursing competencies of nurses and that similar studies be conducted with nurses in different institutions and with a larger number of nurses.
文摘Background:This study examined the development of Tai Chi in Ottawa,Canada,focusing on:(1)traditions and modernization of Tai Chi in China's mainland;(2)the evolution of Ottawa’s Chinese community;and(3)the role of Ottawa Tai Chi Chuan Association(OTCA)and Taoist Tai Chi Society(TTCS)-in promoting Tai Chi and traditional health practices rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)in Ottawa.Methods:Archive research was used to investigate origins,organizational structures,and programs of the associations.Documents were obtained from the personal collections,websites,and Ottawa Archives.Secondary literature on Tai Chi’s history in China and Chinese immigration to Ottawa provided contextual insights.Results:In the twentieth century,Tai Chi in China's mainland underwent significant transformations,aligning with nation-building,social reform,public health promotion,and cultural influence.Since the 1970s,the demographic composition of Canada’s Chinese community has become diversified.Some community members played a critical role in transmitting Tai Chi to Canada by establishing OTCA and TTCS.Through a variety of Tai Chi programs,workshops,and community engagement,OTCA and TTCS promoted Tai Chi as a holistic health practice rooted in TCM and traditional cultural principles in different approaches.OTCA primarily served the Chinese community,focusing on diverse forms,techniques,and theories.In contrast,Ottawa’s TTCS,as a satellite association,emphasized Taoist-inspired Tai Chi and cultivation passed down by the founder,Moy Linshin,to accommodate members from diverse cultural backgrounds.OTCA and TTCS created inclusive mind-body communities for individuals to engage in Tai Chi as a culturally meaningful practice and a means of fostering social connection and holistic wellness.Conclusion:OTCA and TTCS significantly revitalized while adapted Tai Chi and TCM practices to Western contexts,integrating its historical roots with western health ideas to establish it as a widely recognized mind-body discipline and alternative therapy.
基金Undergraduate Research Grants,Walailak University.
文摘Objective:Sick building syndrome(SBS)is a significant health concern among healthcare workers,exacerbated by prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants and inadequate environmental conditions.Our study aims to explore the prevalence of SBS and its association with indoor air quality and workplace environments among healthcare workers in five hospital departments in Nakhon Si Thammarat,Thailand.Methods:Indoor air quality was assessed over eight days,measuring microbial concentrations(bacteria,fungi),temperature,humidity,and carbon dioxide levels.Demographic data and SBS symptoms were also collected from healthcare workers.Results:The findings revealed that fungal concentrations were highest in the pharmacy(51.95±37.59)colony forming units(CFU)per m^(3),while bacterial concentrations peaked in the outpatient department(265.06±49.46)CFU/m3.The study identified Staphylococcus hominis and Micrococcus luteus as the dominant microbial species in the air environment.A moderate positive correlation was found between bacterial concentrations and humidity(r=0.43,P=0.046).SBS symptoms were prevalent among healthcare workers,with 75.58%reporting issues like dry eyes and fatigue.The total complaint score for SBS correlated positively with indoor pollutant levels,especially fungi(r=0.38,P<0.001).Frequent cleaning reduced SBS complaints significantly(P<0.001).Conclusion:Hospital departments with more frequent cleaning practices exhibited lower SBS complaints,highlighting the importance of cleaning frequency in reducing SBS-related issues.These findings provide actionable insights for improving workplace safety and indoor air quality in healthcare settings.
文摘Introduction: Obstetric Fistulas (OF) constitute a major public health problem in developing countries in general and in Central African Republic (CAR) in particular because of its numerous consequences. The objective of this work is to contribute to the management of OF cases in CAR. Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive and analytical study, including data from several OF care services. The study included 245 cases of OF, operated on from 2009 to 2018. The parameters studied were maternal and obstetrical data, sociodemographic data, the specific characteristics of the fistulas as well as the modalities and outcome of surgical treatment. The data collected came from six (6) OF surgical repair campaigns organized by the Ministry of Health and Population with the support of UNFPA. Results: We recorded 245 patients, representing a prevalence of 0.77% of OF per year. Among these patients, almost half (45.3%) were treated at the Sino-Central African Friendship University Hospital Center (CHUASC). The average age of the patients was 30 years (range 14 to 78 years). They were unschooled (53.9%) and primigravidas (35%). The fistulas had an average duration of evolution of 7.58 years. They were vesicovaginal in 25.3%. Types V and I dominated in 17.4% and 9.2%, respectively. In 85.9% of cases, fistulorrhaphy was performed, half of which (50.2%) via the upper route. The cure rate was 83.3%. Note that our study reveals statistically significant links between the evolution after surgery with age (p = 0.04 Conclusion: OF mainly affected women of childbearing age, uneducated, primiparous. Vesicovaginal fistula was the frequently encountered type and was manifested by urine loss clinically with a positive methylene blue test.
文摘Still common in developing countries, acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is not only a disease of children and adolescents, but can also occur in adults. At this age, the diagnosis of rheumatic flare-ups can be difficult due to the frequency of other types of joint diseases and the existence of degenerative and dystrophic valve disease. In adults, the initial rheumatic attack is marked by the predominance of joint damage over cardiac damage. However, it is often at this age that rheumatic valve disease is discovered. The revised Jones criteria also find their place in the diagnosis of AAR in adults. Objective: To study the demographic, clinical, and biological characteristics of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) in the General Medicine Department of the Siguiri Prefectural Hospital. Materials and Methods: This descriptive observational study examined the demographic, clinical and biological characteristics of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) at the Siguiri Prefectural Hospital, Guinea, between April 1 and September 31, 2021 according to Jones criteria. The data were collected on a form containing sociodemographic variables (age, sex, profession), rheumatological, cardiac, pulmonary and neurological clinical signs, biological variables and treatment. Results: Figure 1 shows the flow of the hospital frequency of the RAA in the General Medicine Department of the Prefectural Hospital of Siguiri. During the study period, 420 patients were hospitalized, of whom 161 patients had AAR, a frequency of 38.33%. Table 1 shows the distribution of patients diagnosed with ARB, by sociodemographic characteristics. The average age was 44.7 ± 19.78 years and the extremes of 14 and 90 years, the female sex dominated with a ratio of 0.75. The informal sector was in the majority in 45.34% of cases and most were illiterate, i.e. 53.42%. In our study, the incidence was lower during the dry season than during the rainy season, a hot season with high rainfall and humidity, the rainy period was a provider with a peak in August and September. The lifestyle was characterized by overcrowding in 87.58% of patients. The main complaint was fever, i.e. 88.82%. Rheumatological manifestations such as arthritis were 98.14%, chest pain was 37.89% (61 cases). The diagnosis was confirmed by ASLO titration in 85.71% of patients and 98.55% (136 cases) had a titration greater than 400 U/ml. Conclusion: The results obtained from our study show a high prevalence of acute rheumatic fever, which makes it a worrying health problem in the Siguiri health district. Young female adult patients, married with an informal profession and not in school residing in Siguiri were the most encountered in our study. The main functional signs mentioned by the patients were fever, cough and abdominal pain;osteoarticular pain and chest pain dominated the clinical picture. Almost all of our patients had an ASLO titer greater than 400 U/ml and a positive C-reactive protein. Our results show a high risk of spread of acute rheumatic fever within the population of Siguiri. Due to the serious complications caused by acute rheumatic fever, particular attention must be paid to it by carrying out other, much larger studies in order to identify the problem of RAA.
文摘BACKGROUND The rising global burden of liver diseases,such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis,has necessitated innovative therapeutic approaches.Plant-based therapies,recognized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,have shown promising effects.However,poor bioavailability limits their clinical application.AIM To map global research trends,key contributors,and emerging themes in plant-based therapies combined with advanced drug delivery systems for liver health.METHODS Using the Scopus database,645 documents were retrieved and analyzed using bibliometric tools Biblioshiny and VOSviewer.Analysis focused on publication trends,geographical contributions,and advancements in drug delivery technologies,including nanoparticles,liposomes,and polymeric micelles.Metrics such as publication growth rate,authorship collaboration,and thematic clustering were assessed.RESULTS The dataset spans 43 years(1981-2024),with an annual growth rate of 11.09%in the number of publications.Research output is dominated by China(33%),followed by the United States(24%)and India(18%).Collaborative studies accounted for 24.34%of publications,with an average of 5.81 co-authors per document.Key innovations include nanoparticle encapsulation of curcumin and silymarin,improving bioavailability by up to 85%.Highly cited studies demonstrated the antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-fibrotic properties of these compounds.For instance,curcumin nanoparticles showed a 70%improvement in solubility,and silymarin liposomal formulations enhanced therapeutic efficiency by 62%.Thematic analysis revealed a transition from basic clinical observations to molecular and pharmacokinetic research,with a focus on oxidative stress mitigation and hepatoprotection.CONCLUSION This study highlights the growing synergy between plant-based therapies and advanced drug delivery systems,with significant contributions from Asian and Western countries.Future efforts should prioritize clinical trials,standardization of plant extract formulations,and interdisciplinary approaches to maximize therapeutic outcomes.The findings provide a foundation for integrating plant-derived compounds into evidence-based hepatological therapies,addressing critical challenges in bioavailability and safety.
文摘Remembrance activities can support the Culture of Care(CoC)in Laboratory Animal Science(LAS)not only by promoting a culture of respect,gratitude and thankfulness for animal life but also by helping the emotional processing and healing of lab animal researchers and animal facility staff.Even though remembrance activities are practiced in many parts of the world,we did not come across any reported cases in Sri Lanka before 2022.Therefore,here,we report on the various remembrance activities and practices observed within our local scientific community.
基金funded by a Christenson Professorship in Active Healthy Livingfunded by the Health Sciences TD Bank Undergraduate Research Awardsupport from the FIFA Female Athlete Project
文摘Background Relative energy deficiency in sport(REDs)results from exposure to problematic low energy availability.It is a serious condition affecting the health and athletic performance of up to 80%of elite female athletes.REDs is established to have negative short-term effects on reproductive function,but the long-term impact of this condition is unknown.Therefore,we examined the impact of secondary amenorrhea with or without a concurrent diagnosis of REDs on perinatal health outcomes.Methods Postpartum individuals(≥18 years of age)completed an online questionnaire that covered demographics,reproductive history(including a diagnosis of REDs or secondary amenorrhea),and maternal/fetal health outcomes.Logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between previously diagnosed REDs or secondary amenorrhea with perinatal health outcomes.Results A total of 1025 previously pregnant participants completed the survey(33.1±3.4 years,mean±SD).Prior to pregnancy,6.1%had been previously diagnosed with REDs and 20.5%had a history with secondary amenorrhea.Individuals diagnosed with REDs had 3.5-times higher odds of having premature labor(odds ratio,(OR)=3.52,95%confidence interval(95%CI):1.26–9.81)and 2.6-times higher odds of preterm delivery(OR=2.62,95%CI:1.05–6.58)compared to those who had not experienced REDs or secondary amenorrhea.However,in individuals who did not have a history of REDs,secondary amenorrhea did not increase the odds of adverse pregnancy or delivery outcomes.Conclusion A history of REDs,but not secondary amenorrhea,may increase the odds of premature labor and preterm delivery.
基金Supported by The South African Research Chairs Initiative of the Department of Science and Technology and the National Research Foundation
文摘AIM: To investigate the influence of ethnicity in social anxiety disorder(SAD), and the relationship with symptom severity, depression and substance use or abuse, in health sciences' students.METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey of 112 1st, 2nd and 3rd year students from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa. The self-reported Social Anxiety Spectrum questionnaire was used to assess for SAD. The Social Phobia Inventory(SPIN) was adapted to a version called the E-SPIN(Ethnic-SPIN) in order to evaluate the effects of ethnicity. Two sub-questions per stem question were included to assess whether SAD symptoms in social interactions were ethnicity dependent. Substance use was assessed with the Alcohol UseDisorders Identification Test and Drug Use Disorders Identification Test, and depression with the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.RESULTS: Of 112 students who completed the E-SPIN questionnaire, 54.4%(n = 61) met criteria for SAD, with significantly more females than males meeting criteria. Ethnicity had a significant effect on SAD symptomatology, but there was no effect of ethnicity on the rates of drug and alcohol abuse in students with and without SAD. Overall significantly more students with SAD met criteria for depression compared with students without the disorder. CONCLUSION: Among university students, SAD is prevalent regardless of whether interactions are with individuals of the same or different ethnic group. However, ethnicity may be an important determinant of social anxiety for some ethnic groups. SAD was significantly associated with major depression but not significantly associated with drug or alcohol abuse.
文摘Background: The irrational use of medicines remains a key health problem in many developing countries. The overuse of antibiotics is a key driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study surveyed antibiotic use and adherence to the World Health Organization (WHO) prescribing indicators at the Request Muntanga Hospital in the Kalomo District of Southern Province, Zambia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2023 to September 2023 at Request Muntanga Hospital in Zambia and reviewed 600 medical record prescriptions which were issued from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 using the WHO prescribing indicators. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0. Results: From the 600 prescriptions sampled, 1246 medicines were prescribed, with antibiotics making up 86.7% of the encounters. Additionally, the average number of drugs prescribed per encounter was 2.1 and the prevalence of polypharmacy was 61.3%. Further, 17.8% of medicines were prescribed as injectables. Furthermore, 76.7% of the drugs were prescribed from the Zambia Essential Medicines List and 38.9% by generic names. Conclusions: This study found a high use of antibiotics and deviations from the WHO/International Network of Rational Use of Drugs (INRUD) core prescribing indicators at the Request Muntanga Hospital indicating non-adherence to the prescribing indicators. There is a need to promote adherence to the WHO/INRUD core prescribing indicators to promote the rational use of antibiotics and prevent the emergence and spread of AMR.
文摘In sub-Saharan Africa, foodborne Salmonella infections cause around 680,000 deaths per year. The evolutionary aspects of the incidence of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella strains no longer seem to attract much interest in the Central African Republic (CAR), although salmonellosis remains a health problem requiring national and international surveillance. Methodology: The study conducted at the National Laboratory of Clinical Biology and Public Health, Bangui, Central African Republic (LNBCSP) was a retrospective descriptive study. The study duration was five years (January 2019 to December 2023). The study sample consisted of patients who underwent bacteriological testing of stool, blood and urine samples for Salmonella at the LNBCSP in Bangui during this period. Study variables were age, sex, year and bacteriological test results. Statistical tests were used to compare incidences. Relative risks (RR) were calculated to measure the degree of association. Results: From 2019 to 2023, we recorded 353 Salmonella strains, of which 5% were found in blood, 37% in urine and 58% in stool. Patient age ranged from 1 to 86 years, with a mean of 27 ± 22.05 years and a mode of 5 years. Children aged 0 to 14 years (34%) and females (55.81%) predominated. The highest rate of contamination by Salmonella strains was 1.69% in 2022. The overall incidence of salmonellosis was 6.72 in 2019, 7.05 in 2020, 6.91 in 2021, 16.9 in 2022 and 6.26 in 2023 per 1000 samples. Resistance was 30.47% to β_lactam antibiotics, 24.22% to fluroquinolones and 37.97% to Salmonella spp. For Salmonella arizonae strains, resistance was 20.25% to aminoglycosides, 43.67% to chloramphenicol and 7.59% to imipenem. Conclusion: Laboratory-based surveillance of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella strains is needed in both human and veterinary medicine. Another study based on molecular characterization will identify new antibiotic-resistant variants circulating in CAR.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82404892(to QY),82061160374(to ZZ)the Science and Technology Development Fund,Macao Special Administrative Region,China,Nos.0023/2020/AFJ,0035/2020/AGJ+2 种基金the University of Macao Research Grant,Nos.MYRG2022-00248-ICMS,MYRG-CRG2022-00010-ICMS(to MPMH)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,No.2024A1515012818(to ZZ)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.21623114(to ZZ).
文摘Drug development for Alzheimer’s disease is extremely challenging,as demonstrated by the repeated failures of amyloid-β-targeted therapeutics and the controversies surrounding the amyloid-βcascade hypothesis.More recently,advances in the development of Lecanemab,an anti-amyloid-βmonoclonal antibody,have shown positive results in reducing brain A burden and slowing cognitive decline in patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease in the Phase Ⅲ clinical trial(Clarity Alzheimer’s disease).Despite these promising results,side effects such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities(ARIA)may limit its usage.ARIA can manifest as ARIA-E(cerebral edema or effusions)and ARIA-H(microhemorrhages or superficial siderosis)and is thought to be caused by increased vascular permeability due to inflammatory responses,leading to leakages of blood products and protein-rich fluid into brain parenchyma.Endothelial dysfunction is an early pathological feature of Alzheimer’s disease,and the blood-brain barrier becomes increasingly leaky as the disease progresses.In addition,APOE4,the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease,is associated with higher vascular amyloid burden,increased ARIA incidence,and accelerated blood-brain barrier disruptions.These interconnected vascular abnormalities highlight the importance of vascular contributions to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease.Here,we will closely examine recent research evaluating the heterogeneity of brain endothelial cells in the microvasculature of different brain regions and their relationships with Alzheimer’s disease progression.
基金Supported by Qatar Charity Under Ibhath Project for Research Grants,which is funded by the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf throughout Islamic Development Bank
文摘AIM: To determine the distributions of central corneal thickness(CCT) and intraocular pressure(IOP) in emmetropic eyes of healthy children of Palestine.METHODS: This representative cross sectional study included a total of 1156 eyes from 578 healthy school children aged 7-15 y. Inclusion criteria included emmetropia, no previous history of ocular or systemic diseases, no previous history of contact lens use, and the availability of both eyes. CCT and IOP were measured using ultrasound pachymeter and Goldmann applanation tonometer, respectively. The relationship of the results with age and gender was investigated.RESULTS: The mean age of school children was 11.13±2.8 y. Mean CCT was 542.2±37.4 and 544.3±39.2 μm for right and left eyes, respectively. Mean IOP was 12.5±2.2 and 12.3±2.2 mm Hg for right and left eyes, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between CCT and IOP of the right eye(P<0.001, R=0.358) and CCT and IOP of the left eye(P<0.001, R=0.324). No significant differences were observed in CCT and IOP due to age or gender(P>0.05). There were significant differences in mean CCT and IOP between right and left eyes(P=0.004, P=0.001, respectively).CONCLUSION: A population profile of CCT and IOP is established in Palestinian children for the first time. Mean CCT is comparable to some studies but differ from others. Mean IOP is considerably lower than that of majority children of other ethnic groups. Intereye difference of more than 36 μm in CCT, and 5 mm Hg in IOP should prompt evaluation for potential ocular disorders.
文摘Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether street basketball organized as 3 v 3 on either a half court(HC) with 1 basket or a full court(FC) with 2 baskets could improve fitness and health profiles of untrained men after 3 months of supervised training.Methods: Thirty-five untrained men(aged 20—42 years) completed the pre-and post-intervention testing(FC: n = 13, HC: n = 12, CO(control):n = 10). The training attendance was 2.0 ± 0.4 and 1.9 ± 0.3 times per week in FC and HC, respectively. Mean heart rate(HR) was 83.8 ± 6.0 percent of maximal heart rate(%HR_(max)) and 84.5 ± 2.9 %HR_(max) in FC and HC, respectively.Results: The 3 months of street basketball training on an FC with 2 baskets increased maximal oxygen uptake(2.4 mL/min/kg(95% confidence interval(CI): 1.0—3.9)), time to exhaustion(47 s(95%CI: 26—67)), lean body mass(0.8 kg(95%CI: 0.1—1.5)), and bone mineral density(0.021 g/cm^2(95%CI: 0.011—0.031)), whereas mean arterial pressure(—5.6 mm Hg(95%CI: —7.5 to 3.7)), body fat percentage(—1.6%,(95%CI: —2.5 to —0.7)), heart rate(—18 bpm(95%CI: —24 to —12)), and blood lactate(median: —1.4 mmol/L(interquartile range: —1.5 to —0.6)) during submaximal running were lowered. The changes were less pronounced after the training period when playing on an HC with 1 basket, but increases in maximal oxygen uptake(1.6 mL/min/kg(95%CI: —0.1 to 3.3)), time to exhaustion(28 s(95%CI: 9—47)), lean body mass(1.3 kg(95%CI: 0.3—2.4)), and lower body fat percentage(—0.9%(95%CI: —1.9 to —0.1)) were observed in this group.Conclusion: Three months of 3 v 3 street basketball training improved fitness and led to broad-spectrum improvements in variables related to overall health profile, with the most marked effects observed when playing on an FC with 2 baskets.
文摘Objective:This study aimed to identify factors predicting diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malang City,East Java,Indonesia.Methods:A cross-sectional design was used in this study.Participants were selected from five primary health centers in Malang City,East Java,Indonesia using the multistage sampling method.A total of 127 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus were recruited.Data were collected by questionnaires which were the general diabetes knowledge,the Beliefs of Treatment Effectiveness,the Diabetes Distress Scale,the Self-efficacy for Diabetes Scale,the brief Chronic Illness Resources Survey,the Situational Questionnaire and the Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities.A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data.Multiple linear regression with stepwise method was used toanalyze the data.Results:The scores of seven questionnaires(i.e,diabetes knowledge,perceived benefit of diabetes self-management,diabetes distress,perceived self-efficacy,social support,situational influence,and diabetes self-management)were 13.75±3.59,34.9±4.89,3.03±0.86,3.60±0.53,27.79±5.56,3.27±0.58,3.81±1.08,respectively.The significant predictors of diabetes self-management were treatment,perceived self-efficacy,and situational influences.These variables explained 20.8%(adjusted R^(2)=0.208)of the variance in diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malang City.Conclusion:Diabetes self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus could be improved by enhancing their perceived self-efficacy to achieve their self-management behavior,such as having a healthy diet,exercising regularly,actively monitoring blood glucose level,taking medication and foot care,and providing support to promote good situational influence.
文摘Objectives: Research has highlighted the importance of regular exercise within the general population and mental health groups in regard to mood and self-esteem, as well as single bout exercise within the general population. However, research into single bout exercise in mental health population is lacking. This study investigated the impact of a single bout of exercise, on mood and self-esteem, in patients with a wider clinical mental health diagnosis. Design: A quantitative questionnaire was completed immediately pre and post a single, 45 minute bout of moderate intensity exercise, consisting of the Brunel Universal Mood States (BRUMS) questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSE). Methods: Participants attending a mental health hospital with a clinical mental health diagnosis (N = 54) completed the questionnaire. Information regarding physical activity levels, mental health diagnosis and length of hospital stay were collated. Results: A significant improvement was identified on the RSE as well as the BRUMS (depression, anger, confusion, anxious tension and vigour) over time. Conclusion: The significant findings highlight the importance of exercise promotion within this population group, and the potentially beneficial role that a single bout of exercise can have on mood and self-esteem in patients experiencing mental health problems.
文摘BACKGROUND: According to the fact that women account for the highest rate of victims of mental health loss during disasters, prioritization of their requirements is of remarkable signifi cance. Therefore, the present study was carried out with the aim to prioritize factors related to women's mental health during an earthquake. METHODS: This study was conducted using the Delphi method in 2017. Participants consisted of experts including psychologists, counselors and psychiatrists, social medicine specialists, and psychiatric-mental health nurses with experience in service and disaster awareness, especially earthquake. They were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. The Delphi method was used in 2 rounds with 21 components and the fi nal attendance of 19 participants and the collective agreement of 75%. RESULTS: Of the 21 factors related to women's mental health during the earthquake, the following components were, respectively, preferred by the participants: psychological well-being training, group relationships and support of women in emergency situations, fair treatment in the provision of rights and services to women, crisis awareness and management of behavior and diffi cult conditions, and social security during disasters with the total mean standard deviation (SD) of 13.4 (2.4), 13.0 (2.4), 12.7 (2.5), 12.5 (2.4), and 12.3 (2.2), respectively. CONCLUSION: Training in the fi eld of psychology and disasters, and social and cultural factors were prioritized among factors related to women's mental health during an earthquake. Therefore, the results of this study can be applied by the planners and executives of mental health, women and disasters, and the women's community itself.
