Health Science Reports最新文献

{"title":"Epidemiology and Clinical Characteristics of Musculoskeletal Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis in Lagos, Nigeria","authors":"Victor Abiola Adepoju, Safayet Jamil, Ify Genevieve Ifeanyi-Ukaegbu, Olusola Daniel Sokoya, ABM Alauddin Chowdhury, Mohammad Shahangir Biswas","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.71108","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.71108","url":null,"abstract":"<p>Globally, tuberculosis (TB) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. It poses a substantial public health challenge. According to the World Health Organization global report, TB was the leading cause of death from infectious disease in 2019 and the second leading cause in 2020 (after COVID-19) [<span>1, 2</span>]. Among various forms of TB, musculoskeletal TB is particularly concerning. It accounts for 10%–15% of TB cases in developing nations [<span>3</span>]. This form of extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) often presents atypically, particularly in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfected patients, where it often manifests in areas outside the lungs, such as lymph nodes, pleura, and osteoarticular systems [<span>4</span>].</p><p>Diagnosing EPTB is challenging due to its unconventional presentation. Although histologic diagnosis via tissue biopsy is preferred for its accuracy, it is not always feasible in resource-limited settings. Microbiological cultures, the gold standard for detecting tubercle bacilli, are time-consuming and not universally accessible [<span>5</span>]. As a result, physicians often rely on clinical judgment and radiologic investigations. Previous studies have indicated that factors like gender, race, and comorbidities, particularly HIV status, significantly influence the epidemiology of EPTB [<span>6-8</span>]. In West Africa and Nigeria, male gender and positive HIV status have been strongly associated with EPTB, as shown in studies from Ghana and Benin Republic [<span>9, 10</span>].</p><p>In Nigeria, the epidemiological profile of EPTB, especially its musculoskeletal form, is not well documented. This lack of data hinders a comprehensive understanding of its prevalence and clinical manifestations. Therefore, this study analyzed the burden of musculoskeletal EPTB over a 4-year period (2020–2023) at a Federal tertiary hospital in Lagos, Nigeria. It examined demographic factors and clinical presentations, aiming to provide insights that could improve diagnostic methods, treatment strategies, and patient outcomes for EPTB in Nigeria.</p><p>This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. We reviewed medical records of 137 patients diagnosed with musculoskeletal EPTB at a Federal tertiary hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, over a 4-year period from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023. This facility is a specialized center for managing bone and joint diseases, including trauma, burns, and plastic surgery, and it also offers services in physiotherapy, TB diagnosis, research, and training. The hospital, supported by the Lagos State TB, Buruli Ulcer, and Leprosy Control Program, plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment.</p><p>Data extraction took place in May 2021 and was conducted by accessing the Health Facility TB Treatment Register maintained by the National TB Program. The data extraction process was repeated annually to ensure the inclusion of records up ","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.71108","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144681064","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Association Between Blood Glucose and Body Mass Index With Dietary Diversity and Physical Activity: A Cross-Sectional Study on Marma Tribes of Bandarban in Bangladesh","authors":"Sadnan Hossain,&nbsp;Akibul Islam Chowdhury,&nbsp;Md. Nawal Sarwer,&nbsp;Fouzia Akter,&nbsp;Nasima Akter Mukta","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.71113","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.71113","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The increase in overweight and obesity cannot be exclusively ascribed to environmental or lifestyle factors, since a substantial proportion of this phenomenon is impacted by genetic and racial factors. This study investigated the link between body mass index (BMI) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels among Marma tribal community members in Bangladesh.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methodology</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A cross-sectional study was carried out on the Marma tribe of the Bandarban using random sampling techniques to select the participants. A total of 208 (74 male and 134 female) respondents participated, and a standardized questionnaire was used to collect data. In addition to descriptive statistics, <i>χ</i>², and logistic regression model were employed for analysis at a 5% significance level.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Result</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study reveals that 65.9% of the people belong to the 30–50 age group, followed by 28.8% of the 51–70 age group associated with BMI (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.024). The prevalence of obesity (46%) is higher among females (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05). Physical activity level is associated with BMI (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05). Among all the subjects, 14.9% are diabetic, 37.5% are prediabetic, and 46.7% belong to the normal blood glucose range. The relation between physical activity level and body mass index is notable (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05). Blood glucose level and dietary diversity score are also significant (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.05).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>There is no significant association between BMI and blood glucose levels, but a positive correlation exists. The BMI tends to be greater among females. Future research could compare it with non-tribal groups and use the HbA1c approach for a more comprehensive evaluation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.71113","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144687883","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Determinants of Cognitive Performance Among Ghanaian Hypertensive Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study","authors":"Solomon Gyabaah,&nbsp;Samuel Nguah Blay,&nbsp;Shadrack Osei Asibey,&nbsp;Bruce Ovbiagele,&nbsp;Fred Stephen Sarfo","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.71100","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.71100","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Cognitive decline is one of the most deleterious consequences of hypertension. Hypertension is rife in sub-Saharan Africa, where control of blood pressure is abysmally poor.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study is aimed at assessing the determinants of cognitive performance among Ghanaian hypertensive patients.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This was a cross-sectional study conducted at a single district hospital among hypertensives aged ≥ 18 years. Global cognitive performance is assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA). A multivariable linear regression analysis was performed, and a beta coefficient was computed to identify factors independently associated with the MOCA score.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We enrolled 214 adults living with hypertension; the mean (SD) age was 64 (13.4) years, and 168 (78.5%) were females. Factors, with their adjusted beta coefficients (95% CI), independently associated with cognitive performance were age, −0.10 (−0.16, −0.04), <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001; female sex, −2.3 (−4.2, −0.35), <i>p</i> = 0.021, secondary and tertiary-level educational attainment +5.2 (3.5, 6.9), <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001 and +4.1 (0.49, 7.7), <i>p</i> = 0.026 respectively. In sensitivity unadjusted analyses, body mass index (BMI), with a beta coefficient of +0.18(0.08, 0.29), <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001, was associated with MOCA score in females. Among the male participants, a history of heart failure, −11 (−15, −5.9), <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001, history of stroke −11 (−15, −5.9), <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001, BMI −0.31 (−0.49, −0.13), <i>p</i> = 0.002 and uncontrolled hypertension −3.5 (−6.9, −0.15), <i>p</i> = 0.047 were associated with MOCA score.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Increasing age and female sex are associated with poorer global cognitive performance, while higher educational attainment is associated with good global cognitive performance among Ghanaians living with hypertension.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.71100","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672975","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Health Insurance Payer Status Is Associated With Frailty in a Surgical Patient Population: A Retrospective Case Series","authors":"David Fenton,&nbsp;Johnathan R. Kent,&nbsp;Rachel Nordgren,&nbsp;Mazuba Siamatu,&nbsp;Amani Allen,&nbsp;Lauren J. Gleason,&nbsp;A. Justine Landi,&nbsp;Megan Huisingh-Scheetz,&nbsp;Mark K. Ferguson,&nbsp;Maria Lucia L. Madariaga","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.70791","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.70791","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background and Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Frailty is an age-related syndrome associated with poor surgical outcomes, but the impact of insurance payer status on frailty is not fully understood. We sought to evaluate the association between insurance payer status and frailty among thoracic surgery patients.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This retrospective study included all patients undergoing routine frailty screening in a general thoracic surgery clinic at a single center from December 2020 to December 2022. Insurance payers were collected (Medicare, Medicaid, or private). Frailty was measured using the Fried's Frailty Phenotype (FFP) (0: not frail, 1–2: prefrail, 3–5: frail) and the Modified 5-Item Frailty Index (mFI-5) (≥ 2 vs. 0–1). Fisher's Exact and Kruskal–Wallis tests and multivariable logistic regressions were performed. A final sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine the association of insurance and frailty in patients who underwent surgery.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Of the 430 screened patients, 41% (183) were female, median age was 68 (IQR: 62–74), and 48% (207) were non-White. Insurance coverage was 63% (271) Medicare, 15% (64) Medicaid, and 22% (95) private insurance. Of the cohort, 44% (189) of patients underwent subsequent surgery. After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, race/ethnicity, income, smoking status, medications, cancer history, and healthcare utilization, patients with Medicare were more likely to be frail than those with private insurance (FFP: Medicare—OR: 3.17, CI: [1.14–9.72], <i>p</i> &lt; 0.05 | mFI-5: OR: 3.40, CI: [1.45–8.55], <i>p</i> &lt; 0.01). This association was seen in patients with Medicaid by mFI-5 (OR: 3.35, CI: [1.24–9.51], <i>p</i> &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, these findings were consistent with our sensitivity analysis.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Publicly insured surgical patients are more likely to be frail than those privately insured. The etiology of this disparity is multifactorial and may be a result of healthcare inaccessibility, limitations of coverage, and lower socioeconomic status. Future policy-based interventions to address social determinants of health may reduce insurance disparities.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.70791","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672640","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Effects of Hyperkyphosis on Gait Parameters in Older Adults: A Systematic Review","authors":"Zeinab Gasavi Nezhad,&nbsp;Steven A. Gard,&nbsp;Mokhtar Arazpour","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.70958","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.70958","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background and Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Hyperkyphosis, which affects 20%–40% of older adults, is characterized by excessive thoracic curvature and is linked to impaired mobility. Age-related gait changes further complicate this issue, but studies on the relationship between hyperkyphosis and gait parameters have yielded inconsistent results. Focused research is essential to clarify this relationship and develop effective interventions.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This systematic review examined the effects of hyperkyphosis on gait in older adults ( ≥ 60 years), adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO registration: CRD42024597304). Observational studies were included, while interventions and studies involving younger populations were excluded. Databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane) were systematically searched. Two independent reviewers screened articles, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias using validated JBI tools (cohort and cross-sectional checklists). Studies were categorized as high-, moderate-, or low-quality ( ≥ 75%, 50%–74%, and &lt; 50% scores, respectively). Discrepancies were resolved through consensus. Results were synthesized qualitatively, focusing on methodological strengths and limitations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Nineteen studies focusing on older adults with hyperkyphosis were analyzed, highlighting diverse methods for measuring kyphosis and gait parameters. The findings indicated hyperkyphosis adversely affects gait characteristics, including walking speed, step time, and overall mobility. A strong association was found between increased age, reduced muscle mass, and impaired gait performance.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This review underscores the detrimental impact of hyperkyphosis on gait parameters in older adults, emphasizing the need for standardized measurement protocols and early clinical identification. Targeted interventions are essential to enhance gait performance in this population.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.70958","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672639","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Polymorphic Distribution of Human Homeostatic Iron Regulator Gene H63D rs1799945 and Clinico-Hematological Parameters of Sickle Cell Anemia Patients: A Case-Control Study in Northern Ghana","authors":"Samuel Kwasi Appiah,&nbsp;Charles Nkansah,&nbsp;Samira Daud,&nbsp;Gabriel Abbam,&nbsp;Felix Osei-Boakye,&nbsp;Larry Adom,&nbsp;Rekhiatu Oboirien Abdul Rauf,&nbsp;Godfred Takyi Addae,&nbsp;Lydia Sarpong,&nbsp;Godfred Amoah Appiah,&nbsp;Charles Agnaatah Derigubah,&nbsp;Jennifer Obeng Mensah,&nbsp;Onwuka Chima Kalu,&nbsp;Victor U. Usanga,&nbsp;Boniface Nwofoke Ukwah,&nbsp;Ejike Felix Chukwurah","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.71097","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.71097","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background and Aim</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The study assessed the polymorphic distribution of H63D rs1799945 of HFE gene and clinico-hematological parameters of SCA patients.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Sixty sickle cell anemia (SCA) patients and 30 healthy controls without sickle cell disease between the ages of 2–38 years were selected for this case-control study from March to July, 2023 in the Northern Ghana. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-anticoagulated blood samples were used for complete blood count estimation using a 5-part hematology autoanalyzer (URIT-5250 China). Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood using the spin-column protocol for DNA (Qiagen Kit) and genotyping of H63D rs1799945 gene was performed using Agena MassARRAY with iPLEX PCR (Agena Biosciene, USA).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The median age of the participants was 15.8 (2.0–38.0) years. All the study participants possess only the wild-type allele (CC) of the H63D rs1799945 gene. The mutant variants (CG and GG) were not detected among the study population. There were significant reductions in the RBC (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), Hb (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), and HCT (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), but higher levels of ferritin (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), CRP (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), MCV (<i>p</i> = 0.001), RDW-CV% (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), TWBC (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001) and platelet count (<i>p</i> = 0.002) in SCA participants than the controls. Incidence of vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) correlated with increased levels of ferritin (<i>r</i> = 0.458, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), CRP (<i>r</i> = 0.461, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), platelet (<i>r</i> = 0.537, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001) and WBC (<i>r</i> = 0.302, <i>p</i> = 0.019) counts but inversely correlated with Hb levels (<i>r</i> = −517, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001) of SCA patients. Also, levels of ferritin (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), Hb (<i>p</i> = 0.001), TWBC (<i>p</i> = 0.018), platelet (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), frequencies of VOC (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001) and number of hospitalization (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), were significantly improved in participants on hydroxyurea therapy than the hydroxyurea naïve participants.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The mutant G allele is very rare among the study population. The study also observed severe hematological alterations in SCA participants compared to the controls group. Hydroxyurea was found to improve the clinico-hematological parameters and the need to encourage its usage.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.71097","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144666185","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Association of Peak Height Velocity and Skeletal Maturity to Injury Incidence in Male Elite Adolescent Football (Soccer) Players—A Systematic Review","authors":"Oskari Pakarinen,&nbsp;Ville T. Ponkilainen,&nbsp;Ilari Kuitunen","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.71096","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.71096","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To analyze the impact of peak height velocity (PHV) and skeletal maturity on the injury incidence and injury burden in adolescent football (soccer) players.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases were searched in March 2023, for observational studies focusing on PHV or skeletal maturity status and injuries in youth football players. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. The evidence of certainty of outcomes was ranked according to GRADE. We did not conduct statistical meta-analysis synthesis of the results due to substantial heterogeneity in the methods and limited reporting of the original studies.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A total of 699 abstracts were screened, and 12 studies were included for review. Eight studies analyzed players regarding the PHV status, and four regarding the skeletal maturity. The certainty of evidence for both outcomes was very low. Regarding PHV, the injury incidence and injury burden were highest in the circa-PHV group in five studies, highest in post-PHV in two studies, and lowest in pre-PHV group in all but one study. Regarding skeletal maturity, in two studies, the injury incidence was highest in early mature and in one study it was highest in normal maturers, with no detectable differences between the groups. In one study, the injury burden was highest in the early maturers.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Injury incidence and injury burden may be increased during the peak high-velocity growth period in male elite-level adolescent football players. It is unclear whether the level of skeletal maturity affects the injury incidence or injury burden.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.71096","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144666184","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Electroacupuncture Improves Sepsis-Induced Acute Gastrointestinal Injury: A Retrospective Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study","authors":"Yi Yu,&nbsp;Bojun Zheng,&nbsp;Jian Xu,&nbsp;Jian Li","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.70994","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.70994","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background and Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>There is limited research on the clinical efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) for sepsis-induced acute gastrointestinal injury (S-AGI). This study aimed to examine the effects of EA at “Zusanli” (ST36) and “Guanyuan” (RN4) on S-AGI.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We identified 255 patients with S-AGI from March 2018 to September 2021 who underwent treatment at the Department of Critical Care Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine. Among these patients, 50 received EA, and 203 did not. After performing 1:2 propensity score matching by sex, age, baseline comorbidity, infection source, laboratory results, and AGI classification, there were 100 patients in the non-EA cohort. In addition to conventional therapies, patients in the treatment group underwent 30 min of EA at ST36-RN4 twice a day for 7 days. The 28-day mortality was recorded.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Our study included 150 participants diagnosed with S-AGI, with an average age of 70.3 years. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis indicated an association between EA treatment and significantly lower 28-day mortality. Adjusted multivariable Cox models consistently suggested a significant reduction in the prevalence of mortality that was associated with the use of EA. After accounting for confounding factors, there was an observed 54% decrease in 28-day mortality among patients who received EA (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.22–0.95, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.05). Subgroup analyses further supported these associations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>There is an indication that EA at ST36-RN4 may be associated with protective effects for patients with S-AGI.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.70994","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144666268","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Bridging the Microplastics–Public Health Research Gap: A Call for Translational Action in Vulnerable Populations","authors":"Md. Mahadi Hassan,&nbsp;Noushin Nohor","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.71050","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.71050","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;We have read with great interest the article by Alvitez et al. (2025) titled “Current Trends, Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Microplastics Research and Global Public Health: A Scientometric Study” [&lt;span&gt;1&lt;/span&gt;]. The authors provided an impressive scientometric analysis of global research trends on microplastics and their implications for public health. This study offers a valuable overview of the thematic evolution, key contributors, and geographic collaborations shaping this emerging field. While their work effectively highlights the academic momentum behind microplastic research, it also inadvertently exposes a pressing concern: the lack of context-specific studies that translate into meaningful health interventions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;One of the most striking findings from the study is the dominance of high-income countries in publication output and scholarly impact, despite LMICs often bearing a disproportionate burden of environmental exposure and health vulnerability. For example, Bangladesh, a densely populated country with rampant plastic pollution and fragile waste management systems, has been involved in just a handful of collaborative publications in this field. This disparity underscores an urgent need for increased funding and capacity-building to foster localized, high-quality research in affected regions.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Furthermore, while the article briefly touches upon indoor exposure and the intersection with COVID-19, it does not delve deeply into the health outcomes or pathophysiological pathways through which microplastics may affect vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, or individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Microplastics in air, water, and food have been associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and even neurodegenerative outcomes. Yet, there remains a glaring absence of epidemiological studies linking microplastic exposure to clinical endpoints, particularly in real-world settings where co-exposures to other environmental toxins are common [&lt;span&gt;2-4&lt;/span&gt;]. The current scientometric trends, as revealed by the authors, show increasing interdisciplinary collaboration and publication volume. However, quantity does not equate to impact if it fails to inform public policy and health interventions. There is a critical need to translate research outputs into regulatory standards for plastic use, urban planning, and public health advisories, especially in megacities across South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, where exposure risks are intensifying.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Finally, we commend Alvitez et al. for documenting the thematic shift of microplastics research toward public health. This is an encouraging sign that the scientific community is beginning to move beyond ecotoxicology and into the domain of population health. The next imperative, however, is to prioritize longitudinal, community-based studies that assess cumulative exposure, bioaccumulation, and chro","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.71050","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672066","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Factors for Oral Intake Recovery in Acute Illness Patients With Dysphagia: A Prospective Cohort Study","authors":"Sho Nishiguchi,&nbsp;Nagisa Sugaya,&nbsp;Miyo Akiyama,&nbsp;Masahiko Inamori","doi":"10.1002/hsr2.70944","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.70944","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background and Aims</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study examined to identify predictive factors for oral intake recovery in patients with acute illness after discharge from an acute care hospital.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The prospective cohort study was conducted at an acute care hospital between January and December 2020. Among 3359 consecutive patients who required speech therapy rehabilitation after acute illness treatment, those with oral intake difficulty were selected. After discharge, patients were followed up at home care service, long-term care facility, or sub-acute hospital. Difficulty in oral intake was defined based on the dysphagia grade by speech-language pathologists and overall oral intake consumption. The primary outcome measure was the recovery of total oral intake 90 days after discharge. We analyzed the clinically relevant factors for oral intake recovery using a multivariate logistic regression model.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Among 512 patients with severe dysphagia and insufficient oral intake upon discharge, 410 were ultimately included (response rate: 80.0%) from 106 facilities, comprising a home care service, a long-term care facility, and another hospital. The mean age was 83.2 years, with 52.9% of the patients being men. The median length of the hospital stay was 27 days. Overall, 195 (47.4%) patients survived, and 57 (13.9%) recovered their oral intake 90 days after discharge. In the multivariable analysis, the absence of nocturnal suctioning (adjusted odds ratio = 3.8, 95% confidence interval: 1.9–7.5, <i>p</i> &lt; 0.001), communication ability (<i>p</i> = 0.021), and artificial hydration and nutrition (<i>p</i> = 0.001) were significant factors associated with oral intake recovery within 90 days after discharge.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The factors identified in this study may contribute to prognosis of patients who can recover their oral intake at discharge from acute care hospitals and to the implementation of appropriate discharge plans and artificial hydration and nutrition.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":36518,"journal":{"name":"Health Science Reports","volume":"8 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":2.1,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/hsr2.70944","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672068","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}