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Fulltext Caregiver Burden among Caregivers of Patients with Mental Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Cham CQ, Ibrahim N, Siau CS, Kalaman CR, Ho MC, Yahya AN, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Nov 30;10(12).
PMID: 36553947 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122423

Due to the increasing importance of caregivers in the treatment outcomes of patients with mental illness, this study aimed to systematically review studies investigating the former's caregiver burden and determine its prevalence. An open search, without filters, was conducted. Articles were selected from Medline, Scopus, and PubMed from inception to 30 April 2022 using the PRISMA protocol. Subgroup analyses examined the between-group differences by study setting, measurements used, and disorder type. A total of 5034 caregivers from 23 countries were included in this review. Thirty-nine studies were included in the systematic review, and, among them, twenty-six were deemed eligible for meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of caregiver burden among caregivers of individuals with mental illness was 31.67% (95% CI = 26.22-37.12). Pooled prevalence was the highest among care recipients receiving treatment in a hospital setting (36.06%; 95% CI = 22.50-49.63), followed by the community and clinic settings. Caregiver prevalence values were higher for burden measured using the Zarit Burden Interview (38.05%; 95% CI = 27.68-48.43). compared with other instruments, and for carers of care recipients with psychosis (35.88%; 95% CI = 27.03-44.72) compared with those without. Thus, targeted interventions should focus on caregivers of patients in hospital settings and with psychotic symptoms.
Fulltext The Evaluation of Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Malignant Tumors Involving the Maxillary Sinus: Recommendation of an Examination Sieve and Risk Alarm Score

Bashir A, Khan ZA, Maqsood A, Prabhu N, Saleem MM, Alzarea BK, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Jan 09;11(2).
PMID: 36673562 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020194

This observational study was conducted to evaluate the clinical signs and symptoms of maxillary sinus tumors and to propose a clinical examination sieve and a unique risk alarm score to be used for timely patient referral and vigilance. The study consisted of 70 patients between 20 to 82 years of age from both sexes. The clinical information gained was collected from the upper dentoalveolar segment, orbit, and nasal sites. Regarding the early clinical sign and symptoms of patients, nasal obstruction was found in 67 patients (95.7%), facial swelling in 69 patients (98.6%), paresthesia in 41 patients (58.6%), and epistaxis in 50 patients (71.4%). Furthermore, in terms of the late signs and symptoms, a palpable mass in buccal sulcus was observed in 65 (92.9%) of the patients, lymphadenopathy in 24 (34.3%), paresthesia in 38 (54.3%), and diplopia in 22 (31.4%). Furthermore, general sign and symptoms like exophthalmos was present in 35 patients (50%), anosmia was observed in 37 patients (52.9%), and oroantral fistula was noted in 37 patients (55.9%). Additionally, 67 (95.7%) of the patients complained of nasal obstruction. Similarly, facial asymmetry was observed in 69 (98.6%) of the patients and double vision was observed in 24 (34.4%). Tumors of the maxillary sinus have a very insidious course of spread and uncertain clinical signs and symptoms. What makes diagnosis worse is the fact that the symptoms of these tumors are so well hidden in the sponge-like nature of the midfacial region that they are easily misinterpreted by patients. Therefore, diagnoses must be made early, dentists must be vigilant, and patients must be fully investigated at the slightest suspicion of a tumor, albeit benign.
Fulltext Succession Planning Leadership Model for Nurse Managers in Hospitals: A Narrative Review

Yudianto K, Sekawarna N, Susilaningsih FS, Ramoo V, Somantri I

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Feb 04;11(4).
PMID: 36832987 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11040454

The high number of nursing staff in Indonesia requires optimal management skills, one of which comes from the leadership domain. The succession planning program can be an option to prepare nurses who have leadership potential to carry out a management function. This study aims to identify the nurse succession planning model and its application in clinical practice. This study uses a narrative review of the literature approach. Article searches were carried out using electronic databases (PubMed and Science Direct). Researchers obtained 18 articles. Three main themes emerged: (1) the factors that influence the efficient implementation of succession planning, (2) the benefits of succession planning, and (3) the implementation of succession planning in clinical practice. Training and mentoring related to leadership, support from human resources, and adequate funding are the main factors in implementing effective succession planning. Succession planning also can help nurses find competent leaders. However, in its application in clinical practice, the process of recruitment and planning for nurse managers that occurs in the field is not optimal so that succession planning must exist and be integrated with organizational needs and provide guidance and assistance for the younger generation who will become leaders in the future.
Fulltext Effectiveness of Pulmonary Rehabilitation among COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Al-Mhanna SB, Mohamed M, Noor NM, Afolabi HA, Irekeola AA, Bello KE, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Oct 26;10(11).
PMID: 36360471 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10112130

Background: Many COVID-19 patients presented with detrimental features, such as impaired respiratory function, physical capacity, and overall poor quality of life. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of pulmonary rehabilitation on COVID-19 patients. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar from 2019 to 2021. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42021273618. We performed statistical analyses via random effects and expressed the outcomes as standardized mean difference (SMD) for continuous variables, with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: We included six trials involving 432 patients. The primary outcome showed a significant improvement in physical function (SMD 0.83, 95% CI −0.58 to 1.09; p < 0.001; four trials, 266 participants; high-quality evidence). There was significant difference in anxiety (SMD −0.80, 95% CI −1.23 to −0.37; p = 0.003), physical activity intensity levels (SMD −1.27, 95% CI −2.23 to −0.32; p = 0.009), sleep quality (MD −0.05, 95% CI −0.83 to −0.16; p = 0.004), peripheral muscle performance of lower limbs (SMD 0.90, 95% CI −0.60 to 1.20; p < 0.001), and dyspnoea outcomes (SMD −0.55, 95% CI −0.87 to −0.23; p = 0.007). Conclusions: Pulmonary rehabilitation is an effective adjuvant therapy that minimizes COVID-19 severity in the intervention group compared to the conventional treatment. The findings of this study will need to be considered in the framework of the clinical outcome as observed in the intervention outcome. Additionally, safer data on guideline rehabilitation would be needed to examine whether pulmonary rehabilitation would be a fruitful intervention to reduce COVID-19 severity.
Fulltext The Burden of Out-of-Pocket Expenditure Related to Gynaecological Cancer in Malaysia

Liew CH, Shabaruddin FH, Dahlui M

Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Oct 20;10(10).
PMID: 36292545 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10102099

This study aimed to estimate the economic burden on gynaecological cancer patients and their households, in terms of out-of-pocket expenditure, catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) and poverty impact. A cross-sectional study was conducted at an academic tertiary-care health centre in an upper-middle-income country. Data were obtained via structured interviews of 120 gynaecological cancer patients alongside review of medical charts. Mean (SD) and median (IQR) annual household out-of-pocket expenditures were USD 2780 (SD = USD 3926) and USD 1396 (IQR = 3013), respectively. Two thirds (n = 77/120, 64%) of households experienced CHE and 17% (n = 20/120) were impoverished due to out-of-pocket expenditure related to gynaecological cancer. Factors associated with CHE, explored using multivariate logistic regression analysis, estimated that the highest income quintile households, Q5, were 90% less likely to incur CHE compared to the lowest income quintile households, Q1 (adjusted odds ratio = 0.100; p-value < 0.05) and that patients who were not receiving chemotherapy were 88% less likely to incur CHE compared to those receiving chemotherapy (adjusted odds ratio = 0.120; p-value < 0.05). These results indicate the necessity to broaden the coverage of existing financial assistance for patients from low- and middle-income households, such as extending coverage to adult patients of all ages and to those treated in all public hospitals, including academic health centres.
Fulltext Prevalence of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Disorders and Their Association with Smartphone Addiction and Smartphone Usage among University Students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Cross-Sectional Study

Sirajudeen MS, Alzhrani M, Alanazi A, Alqahtani M, Waly M, Manzar MD, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Nov 25;10(12).
PMID: 36553897 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122373

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of upper limb musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and their association with smartphone addiction and smartphone usage among university students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 313 university students aged 18 years and older who owned a smartphone and used it during the preceding 12 months participated in this cross-sectional study. The prevalence of upper limb MSDs, smartphone addiction/overuse, and levels of physical activity were recorded using the standardized Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire, the smartphone addiction scale (short version), and the international physical activity questionnaire (short form), respectively. Data collection was performed on campus between March and May 2021. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the association between the prevalence of upper limb MSDs and smartphone addiction/overuse and levels of physical activity. The 12-month prevalence of MSDs of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist/hand regions due to smartphone use among participants was found to be 20.13%, 5.11%, and 13.42%, respectively. Shoulder (odds ratio (OR) = 11.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.64−27.94, p < 0.001), elbow (OR = 15.38, 95% CI = 1.92−123.26, p = 0.01), and wrist/hand MSDs (OR = 7.65, 95% CI = 2.75−21.22, p < 0.001) were more prevalent among participants who were categorized as having smartphone addiction/overuse measures. Promoting awareness about the healthy use of smartphones, including postural education and decreasing screen time, is necessary to reduce smartphone-related MSDs.
Fulltext Prevalence of Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP) in Hepatitis B (HBV), and Hepatitis C (HCV) Liver Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Bello KE, Irekeola AA, Al-Mhanna SB, Oseni OM, Omebije AP, Shueb RH, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Jan 16;11(2).
PMID: 36673643 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020275

Background and Aim: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common infection in liver cirrhosis. This systematic review and meta-analysis provide detailed information on the prevalence of SBP among hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver cirrhosis globally. Methods: A systematic search for articles describing the prevalence of SBP in HBV and HCV-related cirrhosis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Our search returned ten (10) eligible articles involving 1713 viral cirrhosis cases representing eight (8) countries. A meta-analysis was performed on our eligible studies using the random effect model. A protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022321790). Results: The pooled prevalence of SBP in HBV-associated cirrhosis had the highest estimate [8.0% (95% CI, 2.7−21.0%; I2 = 96.13%; p < 0.001)], followed by SBP in HCV-associated liver cirrhosis [4.0% (95% CI, 1.3%−11.5%; I2 = 88.99%; p < 0.001)]. China (61.8%, CI: 57.1−66.3%), the USA (50.0%, CI: 34.6−65.4%), and Holland (31.1%, CI: 21.6−42.5%) had the highest estimate for SBP in HBV associated liver cirrhosis, SBP in HCV associated liver cirrhosis and SBP in HBV + HCV associated liver cirrhosis respectively. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of SBP in viral hepatitis-associated liver cirrhosis with the year of sampling and method of SBP detection at P < 0.001. There was an increase in SBP incidence at the beginning of 2016 across the liver cirrhosis in this study. Conclusion: The findings of this review revealed a rise in the incidence of SBP in viral hepatitis over the last decade. The latter indicates a possible future rise in the global prevalence of SBP among HBV and HCV-related liver cirrhosis.
Fulltext Agility Skills, Speed, Balance and CMJ Performance in Soccer: A Comparison of Players with and without a Hearing Impairment

Yapici H, Soylu Y, Gulu M, Kutlu M, Ayan S, Muluk NB, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Jan 13;11(2).
PMID: 36673616 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020247

This study investigates the differences in agility, speed, jump and balance performance and shooting skills between elite hearing-impaired national team soccer players (HISP) and without-hearing-impairment elite soccer players (woHISP). Players were divided into two groups, the HISP group (n = 13; 23.5 ± 3.1 years) and the woHISP group (n = 16; 20.6 ± 1.4 years), and were tested in three sessions, seven apart, for metrics including anthropometrics, speed (10 m, 20 m and 30 m), countermovement jump (CMJ), agility (Illinois, 505, zigzag), T test (agility and shooting skills), and balance. The results showed that 30 m, 20 m and 10 m sprint scores, agility/ skills (sec), shooting skills (goals), zigzag, Illinois, and 505 agility skills, and countermovement jump scores were significantly lower among players with hearing impairments (p < 0.05). There were no significant T test differences between HISP and woHISP (p > 0.05). The HISP showed right posterolateral and posteromedial, and left posterolateral and posteromedial scores that were lower than the woHISP group (p < 0.05). Anterior scores were not significantly different between each leg (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the HISP group showed higher performance scores for speed (10 m, 20 m and 30 m), CMJ, agility (Illinois, 505, zigzag) and T test (sec and goals), but not balance. Hearing-impaired soccer players are determined by their skill, training, and strategy, not their hearing ability.
Fulltext The Pattern of Substance Use among People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) Receiving Treatment at University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) during the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Associated Factors

Yahaya AZB, Yee A, Sulaiman AH

Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Jul 23;10(8).
PMID: 35893189 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081366

There was a change in the pattern of substance usage among people who use substances during the COVID-19 pandemic period. This study aims to determine the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the pattern of substance usage among people who use drugs (PWUD) receiving treatment at the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) as well as levels of anxiety and depression together with coping mechanisms and the factors affecting the pattern of substance use during COVID-19 pandemic period. A cross-sectional study was applied. The questionnaire used was the Mini-European Web Survey on Drugs (EWSD): COVID-19, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Brief COPE Scale. In total, 130 PWUD were recruited. Of the participants, 36.2% of PWUD had not used/stopped the usage of illicit drugs/alcohol, 26.2% increased their usage, 20% decreased, and 14.6% used the same amount of illicit substances/alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic period/restrictions. In addition, 28.5% of PWUD had an increased intention to seek professional support for drug counseling/treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The prevalence anxiety and depression symptoms in PWUD according to HADS was 33% and 41.5%, respectively, with depression (p = 0.05) and isolation status (adjusted OR = 2.63, p < 0.05) being associated with an increase in alcohol/illicit substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic. PWUD who had increased their intention to seek professional support had significantly higher odds (adjusted OR = 4.42, p < 0.01) of reducing their alcohol/illicit substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic period. There were increased odds of maintaining alcohol/illicit substance usage among PWUD who practiced dysfunctional coping (adjusted OR = 3.87, p < 0.025) during the COVID-19 pandemic period. In conclusion, depression, isolation status, dysfunctional coping, and intention to seek professional support affected the pattern of alcohol/illicit substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Strategies, substance rehabilitation/counseling, and proper mental health screening and the associated risk factors must be emphasized to prevent a further epidemic of substance use during the pandemic.
Fulltext The Prediction of Survival Outcome and Prognosis Factor in Association with Comorbidity Status in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Research-Based Study

Afolabi H, Salleh SM, Zakaria Z, Ch'ng ES, Mohd Nafi SN, Abdul Aziz AAB, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2022 Sep 05;10(9).
PMID: 36141305 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10091693

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is rising exponentially in Asia, representing 11% of cancer worldwide. This study analysed the influence of CRC on patients’ life expectancy (survival and prognosis factors) via clinicopathology data and comorbidity status of CRC patients. Methodology: A retrospective study performed in HUSM using clinical data from the Surgery unit from 2015 to 2020. The demographic and pertinent clinical data were retrieved for preliminary analyses (data cleansing and exploration). Demographics and pathological characteristics were illustrated using descriptive analysis; 5-year survival rates were calculated using Kaplan−Meier methods; potential prognostic variables were analysed using simple and multivariate logistic regression analysis conducted via the Cox proportional hazards model, while the Charlson Comorbidity Scale was used to categorize patients’ disease status. Results: Of a total of 114 CRC patients, two-thirds (89.5%) were from Malay tribes, while Indian and Chinese had 5.3% each. The 50−69.9 years were the most affected group (45.6%). Overall, 40.4% were smokers (majorly male (95.7%)), 14.0% ex-smokers, and 45.6% non-smokers (p-value = 0.001). The Kaplan−Meier overall 5-year median survival time was 62.5%. From the outcomes, patients who were male and >70 years had metastasis present, who presented with per rectal bleeding and were classified as Duke C; and who has tumour in the rectum had the lowest survival rate. Regarding the prognosis factors investigated, “Gender” (adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 2.62; 95% CI: 1.56−7.81, p-value = 0.040), “Presence of metastases” (HR: 3.76; 95% CI: 1.89−7.32, p-value = 0.010), “Metastasis site: Liver” (HR: 5.04; 95% CI: 1.71−19.05, p-value = 0.039), “Lymphovascular permeation” (HR: 2.94; 95% CI: 1.99−5.92, p-value = 0.021), and “CEA-level” (HR: 2.43; 95% CI: 1.49−5.80, p-value = 0.001) remained significant in the final model for multiple Cox proportional hazard regression analyses. There was a significant mean association between tumour grades and the patient’s comorbidity status. Conclusions: Histopathological factors (gender, metastases presence, site of metastases, CEA level, and lymphovascular permeation) showed the best prognosis-predicting factors in CRC.
Fulltext The Association of Socioeconomic and Lifestyle Factors with the Oral Health Status in School-Age Children from Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

Moin M, Maqsood A, Haider MM, Asghar H, Rizvi KF, Shqaidef A, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Mar 04;11(5).
PMID: 36900761 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11050756

The data on how lifestyle factors of school-going children affect their oral health are not sufficient; therefore, there is a need to analyze the adverse effects of poor lifestyle habits and the role of mothers' education on oral health. The aim of this study was to analyze the association of socioeconomic and lifestyle factors with the oral health status of school-going children through a structured questionnaire and oral examination. Ninety-five (26.5%) children were from class 1. One hundred eighty-seven (52.1%) mothers were educated while 172 (47.9%) were uneducated. Two hundred seventy-six (76.9%) children had never visited the dentist. The results indicate that dental health behavior is associated with lifestyle factors as well as socio-demographic variables. Parent education and awareness regarding oral health plays a major role in determining the oral health of children.
Fulltext Functional Disability and Symptomatic Slow-Acting Drugs for Osteoarthritis in Adults with Periodontitis

Nik-Azis NM, Mohd N, Baharin B, Mohd Fadzilah F, Mohamed Haflah NH, Mohamed Said MS

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Mar 06;11(5).
PMID: 36900775 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11050770

Osteoarthritis (OA) patients have decreased functional ability and restricted access to healthcare facilities and are on a spectrum of medications. These can impact their oral health. This study aims to investigate the association between periodontal disease and OA disease parameters, specifically the functional disability and the medications taken. This was a cross-sectional study on OA participants recruited from the Hospital Canselor Tuanku Mukhriz. Periodontal health parameters were obtained from an oral examination of the participants. A Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) was administered to ascertain the functional status of the participants. Out of the 130 participants recruited, 71 (54.6%) had periodontitis. There was a correlation between the teeth count with OA severity, where participants with a greater Kellgren-Lawrence score had less teeth (rs = 0.204, p = 0.025). Participants with a greater degree of functional limitation also had less teeth (rs = -0.181, p = 0.039) and a higher clinical attachment loss (rs = 0.239, p = 0.006). There were no associations found between the symptomatic slow-acting drugs in OA and periodontal health parameters. In conclusion, there was a high proportion of periodontitis in patients with OA. Functional disability was associated with measures of periodontal health. It is suggested that clinicians treating OA patients consider the need for a referral for dental care when managing this group of patients.
Framework for Adoption of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Globally in the Oncology Area

Horgan D, Hamdi Y, Lal JA, Nyawira T, Meyer S, Kondji D, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Feb 02;11(3).
PMID: 36767006 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11030431

Radical new possibilities of improved treatment of cancer are on offer from an advanced medical technology already demonstrating its significance: next-generation sequencing (NGS). This refined testing provides unprecedentedly precise diagnoses and permits the use of focused and highly personalized treatments. However, across regions globally, many cancer patients will continue to be denied the benefits of NGS as long as some of the yawning gaps in its implementation remain unattended. The challenges at the regional and national levels are linked because putting the solutions into effect is highly dependent on cooperation between regional- and national-level cooperation, which could be hindered by shortfalls in interpretation or understanding. The aim of the paper was to define and explore the necessary conditions for NGS and make recommendations for effective implementation based on extensive exchanges with policy makers and stakeholders. As a result, the European Alliance for Personalised Medicine (EAPM) developed a maturity framework structured around demand-side and supply-side issues to enable interested stakeholders in different countries to self-evaluate according to a common matrix. A questionnaire was designed to identify the current status of NGS implementation, and it was submitted to different experts in different institutions globally. This revealed significant variability in the different aspects of NGS uptake. Within different regions globally, to ensure those conditions are right, this can be improved by linking efforts made at the national level, where patients have needs and where care is delivered, and at the global level, where major policy initiatives in the health field are underway or in preparation, many of which offer direct or indirect pathways for building those conditions. In addition, in a period when consensus is still incomplete and catching up is needed at a political level to ensure rational allocation of resources-even within individual countries-to enable the best ways to make the necessary provisions for NGS, a key recommendation is to examine where closer links between national and regional actions could complement, support, and mutually reinforce efforts to improve the situation for patients.
Fulltext A Comparative Electromyographic Analysis of Flying Squirrel and 3-Point Quadripod Exercise for Lumbar Multifidus Muscle Activations among Healthy Female Subjects

Gasibat Q, Rani B, Čaušević D, Perveen W, Alexe CI, Albina AE, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Mar 12;11(6).
PMID: 36981490 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060833

Physical therapists employ several exercises to alleviate low back pain (LBP). Electromyography (EMG) examination of exercises can monitor muscle activation to help clinicians determine the exercise's effect on stabilisation, endurance, or strength. This study evaluated surface EMG activity comparison for Flying Squirrel Exercise (FSE) and the novel 3-Point Quadripod Exercise (3-PQE) to find the most effective exercise for stimulating the lumbar multifidus (LM) muscle. The study recruited 64 healthy young females (19-24 years). Raw data were normalized and are expressed as the percentage of maximum voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC). The test-retest reliability of the EMG recordings was estimated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC3,1). One-way ANOVA was used to statistically analyse and compare the EMG amplitudes during the two exercises. The ICCs for 3-PQE and FSE were 0.94 (SEM, 21.7% MVIC) and 0.87 (SEM, 19.05% MVIC), respectively. The 3-PQE (69 ± 26% MVIC) demonstrated significantly higher activity than did FSE (30 ± 18% MVIC) (F = 15.573, p = 0.001). Thus, 3-PQE might be a feasible strategy for the prevention and rehabilitation of LBP in females.
Fulltext The Mediating Role of Work Satisfaction in the Relationship between Organizational Communication Satisfaction and Organizational Commitment of Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Dalal HJA, Ramoo V, Chong MC, Danaee M, Aljeesh YI, Rajeswaran VU

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Mar 09;11(6).
PMID: 36981463 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060806

The factors that influence the organizational commitment of healthcare professionals, particularly organizational communication and work satisfaction, are essential for all healthcare organizations. This is particularly important for those who are under the pressure of high demand, economic constraints, and staff shortages. This study examined the relationship between organizational communication satisfaction and organizational commitment among healthcare professionals and the mediating role of work satisfaction in the relationship. A validated self-administered questionnaire and a universal sampling approach were used to conduct a cross-sectional survey of 235 healthcare professionals in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 and SmartPLS software to perform partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). A STROBE checklist was used to report the results. The results show a significant positive correlation between all measured variables. Work satisfaction partially mediates the relationship between organizational communication satisfaction and organizational commitment. The results of the PLS-SEM analyses suggest that communication satisfaction and work satisfaction account for 61% of the variation in organizational commitment. This study reveals that work satisfaction and communication satisfaction are imperative to building a sense of commitment in healthcare professionals. These results reinforce the existing evidence on the factors that influence the organizational commitment of healthcare professionals. Strategies to better shape internal communication practices and improve the work environment through regular feedback to healthcare professionals are essential to strengthening their organizational commitment.
Fulltext Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy and Bracket Systems on Root Resorption during Orthodontic Treatment: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Shahid F, Nowrin SA, Alam MK, Khamis MF, Husein A, Rahman NA

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Mar 15;11(6).
PMID: 36981521 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060864

This study aimed to assess the outcomes of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with the conventional bracket (CB) and self-ligating (SL) bracket systems on root resorption (RR) during orthodontic treatment. A total of 32 patients were included in this randomized clinical trial. All the patients were randomly divided into four individual groups (SLL: self-ligating laser, CBL: conventional bracket laser, SLNL: self-ligating non-laser, CBNL: conventional bracket non-laser). RR was measured from the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs which were taken at two stages of the orthodontic treatment: pre-treatment (T1) and after leveling and alignment stage (T2). Wilcoxon rank test for the comparison was conducted to compare the RR at T1 and T2 stages within each group and showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) for various variables. Mann Whitney test compared the RR in laser and non-laser groups irrespective of the bracket systems and exhibited no significant differences except the left lateral incisor. Moreover, CB and SL groups showed no significant difference in RR among any tooth. Kruskal Wallis test was performed to compare the RR among all groups which presented no significant differences. LLLT and bracket systems have no consequences on RR until the leveling and alignment stage of orthodontic treatment.
Fulltext Cariprazine in an Adolescent with Tourette Syndrome with Comorbid Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder and Depression: A Case Report

Gill JS

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Sep 13;11(18).
PMID: 37761728 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182531

Tourette syndrome is a complex neuropsychiatric condition that manifests in childhood and is often associated with other psychiatric comorbidities. This case report describes a young male with Tourette syndrome with major depressive disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who experienced troublesome side effects due to his existing medications (escitalopram, risperidone, and methylphenidate). In order to control his tics, ameliorate depressive symptoms, and eliminate side effects of stiffness and sedation, risperidone was switched to cariprazine, a third-generation antipsychotic medication with D3-D2 partial agonism. In addition, the antidepressant dose was also increased. With the new combination, the patient reported good control of his tics, together with significant improvement in depressive symptoms and no side effects. Based on this case and the reviewed literature, cariprazine might be a viable option for patients with Tourette syndrome with other comorbid illnesses who are prone to side effects of medication.
Fulltext Digital Device Use, Risk of Cognitive Impairment, and Cognition in Healthy Older Adults: The Role of Cognitive Reserve

Liang C, Subramaniam P, Mohd Ridzwan Goh NS, Kok Wai T, Moustafa AA

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 Oct 25;11(21).
PMID: 37957967 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11212822

Neuroprotective factors are essential to successful ageing. As such, digital device use was proposed as an easily accessible and stimulating available cognitive activity to enhance brain function. Nonetheless, there was a lack of studies inspecting the connection between digital device use and cognitive reserve, the risk of cognitive impairment, and cognition. This study aims to investigate the potential mediator and moderator of the association between digital device use, cognitive reserve, the risk of cognitive impairment, and cognition among healthy older adults. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the relationship between digital device use and cognitive reserve, the risk of cognitive impairment, and cognition. A total of 210 healthy older adults were recruited through purposive sampling. The results obtained from this study revealed that there was a significant difference in cognitive reserve and cognition between healthy older adults who use a digital device for communication purpose only and who use a digital device for multiple purposes. A significant relationship was also found between cognitive reserve, the risk of cognitive impairment, and cognition. Although digital device use was found to be significantly associated with cognitive reserve and cognition, it was not significantly associated with the risk of cognitive impairment. Cognitive reserve partially mediated the relationship between digital device use and cognition, supporting the notion that cognitive reserve acts as an underlying mechanism in the relationship between digital device use and cognition. Hence, digital device use was suggested to be a good daily intervention for healthy older adults to build on their cognitive reserve and potentially protect their cognition from declining. Nevertheless, relying on digital device use alone is not sufficient, and other activities should be explored to enhance cognitive reserve among healthy older adults.
Fulltext Trends in Health Communication: Social Media Needs and Quality of Life among Older Adults in Malaysia

Chen HWJ, Marzo RR, Sapa NH, Ahmad A, Anuar H, Baobaid MF, et al.

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 May 17;11(10).
PMID: 37239741 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11101455

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.
Fulltext Geo-Mapping of the Spatial Accessibility to Public Oral Health Facilities among Schoolchildren in Selangor, Malaysia

Ali NIM, Marhazlinda J

Healthcare (Basel), 2023 May 12;11(10).
PMID: 37239694 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11101405

Spatial accessibility to health services influences service utilisation and eventually impacts the disease burden. This cross-sectional study analysed the spatial accessibility of schoolchildren to public oral health facilities and school dental services (SDS) and vice versa in Selangor. Overlay and proximity analysis from geo-mapping software was employed to map the primary dental clinics with SDS, the public schools, and the proximity between primary dental clinics with SDS and public schools by travelling distance (5 km, 10 km, 20 km) and travelling time (15 min, 30 min). Over half of the schoolchildren in Selangor are within 5 km of accessibility to primary dental clinics and SDS teams. Meanwhile, nearly half of the primary and secondary schools, particularly in rural areas, are located within a more than 5 km service area of public oral health facilities. The SDS teams have a travel burden of more than 20 km to the public schools in Selangor's northern and north-western districts of large geographical areas. Simultaneously, most public primary and secondary schools are within 15 min of driving time from primary dental clinics. Geo-mapping highlights the inequalities in spatial accessibility to public oral health facilities with SDS among schoolchildren in Selangor. It is time to prioritise the resources, SDS, and preventive programmes to reduce inequalities in oral health accessibility among schoolchildren in Selangor.

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