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Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology... Dec 2022Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory gynaecological disease that can have severe negative impacts on quality of life and fertility, placing burden on patients and... (Review)
Review
Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory gynaecological disease that can have severe negative impacts on quality of life and fertility, placing burden on patients and the healthcare system. Due to the heterogeneous nature of endometriosis, and the lack of correlation between symptom and surgical disease severity, diagnosis and treatment remain a significant clinical challenge. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are biologically active particles containing molecular cargo involved in intercellular communication, that can be exploited for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.We systematically reviewed studies exploring EVs and their role in endometriosis, specifically addressing diagnostic and therapeutic potential and current understanding of pathophysiology. Five databases (Pubmed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar) were searched for keywords 'endometriosis' and either 'extracellular vesicles' or 'exosomes'.There were 28 studies included in the review. Endometrium derived EVs contribute to the development of endometriosis. EVs derived from endometriosis lesions contribute to angiogenesis, immunomodulation and fibrosis. Such EVs can be detected in blood, with early data demonstrating utility in diagnosis and recurrence detection. EV isolation techniques varied between studies and only eight of twenty-eight studies fully characterised EVs according to current recommended standards. Reporting/type of endometriosis was limited across studies. Varied patient population, type of sample and isolation techniques created bias and difficulty in comparing studies.EVs hold promise for improving care for symptomatic patients who have never had surgery, as well as those with recurrent symptoms after previous surgery. We encourage further EV research in endometriosis with the inclusion of rigorous reporting of both the patient population and technical methodology used, with the ultimate goal of achieving clinical utility for diagnosis, prognosis and eventually treatment.
Topics: Female; Humans; Quality of Life; Extracellular Vesicles; Exosomes; Endometriosis; Cell Communication; Chronic Disease
PubMed: 36544197
DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01040-y -
Environmental Science and Pollution... Jul 2022Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) constitute a class of metals, semimetals, and non-metals that are of concern due to their persistence, toxicity, bioaccumulation, and... (Review)
Review
Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) constitute a class of metals, semimetals, and non-metals that are of concern due to their persistence, toxicity, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification in high concentrations, posing risks to the ecosystem and to human health. A systematic literature review (SLR) was used in this study to identify natural and anthropogenic sources of PTEs for the aquatic environment. The databases consulted were ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science, in the period 2000-2020, using specific terms and filters. After analyzing the titles, abstracts, and full texts, 79 articles were selected for the SLR, in which 15 sources and 16 PTEs were identified. The main anthropogenic sources identified were mining, agriculture, industries, and domestic effluents, and the main natural sources identified were weathering of rocks and geogenic origin. Some places where environmental remediation studies can be carried out were highlighted such as Guangdong province, in China, presenting values of Cd, Cr, and Cu exceeding the national legislation from drinking water and soil quality, and Ardabil Province, in Iran, presenting values of As, Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn, and Pb exceeding the standard for freshwater sediments of USEPA, among others places. With the results exposed in this work, the government and the competent bodies of each locality will be able to develop strategies and public policies aimed at the main sources and places of contamination, in order to prevent and remedy the pollution of aquatic environments by potentially toxic elements.
Topics: China; Ecosystem; Environmental Monitoring; Humans; Metals, Heavy; Risk Assessment; Soil; Soil Pollutants
PubMed: 35614360
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20980-x -
Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism Dec 2017The aims of this study were as follows: (1) to analyze the literature systematically regarding the seasonal and monthly variation of the occurrence of episodes of acute... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVES
The aims of this study were as follows: (1) to analyze the literature systematically regarding the seasonal and monthly variation of the occurrence of episodes of acute gouty arthritis, and (2) to investigate the relationship between the occurrence of episodes of acute gouty arthritis and meteorological parameters.
METHODS
The present authors systematically reviewed databases for articles published before November 2015. Studies with quantitative data on episodes of acute gouty arthritis by months and/or seasons were included. Meteorological data such as the highest temperature, lowest temperature, diurnal temperature range, change in mean temperature between neighboring days, relative humidity and wind speed for the geographic place(s), and study period where and when each study took place were obtained from meteorological websites.
RESULTS
Ten studies published between 1920 and 2015 were included. A meta-analysis by season showed that acute gouty arthritis occurred significantly more frequently in spring than in other seasons. Analysis by month showed an increase in episodes of acute gouty arthritis from March to July, being the highest in July. The trend reversed, and episodes of acute gouty arthritis started decreasing from July to September, being the lowest in September. The change in mean temperature between neighboring days was the only meteorological parameter that was significantly correlated with the number of monthly episodes of acute gouty arthritis.
CONCLUSIONS
Acute gouty arthritis seems to develop more frequently during the period in which the temperature increases significantly between neighboring days: spring by season and between March and July by month in the northern hemisphere.
Topics: Arthritis, Gouty; Humans; Seasons; Weather
PubMed: 28583691
DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2017.05.006 -
PloS One 2021This scoping review examines the strength of evidence for the effectiveness of public policy-led place-based initiatives designed to improve outcomes for disadvantaged...
This scoping review examines the strength of evidence for the effectiveness of public policy-led place-based initiatives designed to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children, their families and the communities in which they live. Study designs and methods for evaluating such place-based initiatives were assessed, along with the contexts in which initiatives were implemented and evaluated. Thirty-two reports relating to 12 initiatives were included. Eleven initiatives used a quasi-experimental evaluation to assess impact, although there were considerable design variations within this. The remaining initiative used a pre- and post- evaluation design. Place-based initiatives by definition aim to improve multiple and interrelated outcomes. We examined initiatives to determine what outcomes were measured and coded them within the five domains of pregnancy and birth, child, parent, family and community. Across the 83 outcomes reported in the 11 studies with a comparison group, 30 (36.4%) demonstrated a positive outcome, and all but one initiative demonstrated a positive outcome in at least one outcome measure. Of the six studies that examined outcomes more than once post baseline, 10 from 38 outcomes (26.3%) demonstrated positive sustained results. Many initiatives were affected by external factors such as policy and funding changes, with unknown impact on their effectiveness. Despite the growth of place-based initiatives to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children, the evidence for their effectiveness remains inconclusive.
Topics: Child; Child Development; Child Health; Family; Female; Humans; Pregnancy; Public Policy; Socioeconomic Factors; Vulnerable Populations
PubMed: 34941941
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261643 -
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex... Nov 2018Toxocariasis is a neglected tropical disease of humans. Although many studies have indicated or shown that environmental contamination with Toxocara species eggs is a... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Toxocariasis is a neglected tropical disease of humans. Although many studies have indicated or shown that environmental contamination with Toxocara species eggs is a major risk factor for toxocariasis in humans, there has been no comprehensive analysis of published data or information. Here, we conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis of current literature to assess the global prevalence of Toxocara eggs in public places (including beaches, parks and playgrounds). We conducted searches of the PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Science Direct databases for relevant studies published until 20 April 2018, and assessed the prevalence rates of Toxocara eggs in public places. We used the random effects model to calculate pooled prevalence estimates, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and analysed data in relation to WHO geographical regions. Subgroup analysis and meta-regressions regarding the geographical and environmental variables were also performed. Of 2384 publications identified, 109 studies that tested 42,797 soil samples in 40 countries were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled global prevalence of Toxocara eggs in public places was 21% (95% CI, 16-27%; 13,895/42,797). The estimated prevalence rates in the different WHO regions ranged from 13% to 35%: Western Pacific (35%; 95% CI, 15-58%), Africa (27%; 95% CI, 11-47%), South America (25%; 95% CI, 13-33%), South-East Asia (21%; 95% CI, 3-49%), Middle East and North Africa (18%; 95% CI, 11-24%), Europe (18%; 95% CI, 14-22%), and North and Central Americas (13%; 95% CI, 8-23%). A high prevalence was significantly associated with high geographical longitude (P = 0.04), low latitude (P = 0.02) and high relative environmental humidity (P = 0.04). This meta-analysis of data from published records indicates that public places are often heavily contaminated with eggs of Toxocara. This finding calls for measures to reduce the potential risk of infection and disease in humans.
Topics: Animals; Environmental Microbiology; Environmental Monitoring; Parasite Egg Count; Soil; Soil Pollutants; Toxocara
PubMed: 30142562
DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.07.087 -
Public Health Reviews Nov 2020Ageing in place has recently gained visibility in healthcare policies and services. Technology has the potential to facilitate independence at home. The objective of... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Ageing in place has recently gained visibility in healthcare policies and services. Technology has the potential to facilitate independence at home. The objective of this systematic review is to identify technologies that have been rigorously evaluated for supporting the ageing in place of healthy older adults. As well we explored the methods in engagement with technology in healthy older adults.
METHODS
Databases Pubmed, Scopus, PsycInfo and Cinahl were consulted for clinical controlled trials or randomised controlled trials between 2014 and 2019. Studies were included if they contained a technological intervention and focussed on supporting healthy older adults' independent living. PRISMA guidelines and the risk of bias tool of the Cochrane Collaboration were applied.
RESULTS
The search identified 3662 articles of which only 7 made the final analysis. Through narrative analysis, technologies were categorised into three groups: accessible communication, emergency assistance and physical and mental well-being. Patient-centredness was extensively addressed by exploring how the participants engaged in the development and evaluation of the technology and how they were trained and monitored.
CONCLUSIONS
Literature concerning technology to support ageing, based on controlled trials and research performed in authentic home situations, is scarce. Thus, there is a need to investigate the subject in depth. The use of a neurofeedback headband, an accessible computer system, a wristband with pedometer, a biofeedback device and an online video platform can bring added value to ageing in place for healthy older adults. A patient-centred approach for developing, implementing and evaluating technology benefits ageing in place.
PubMed: 33292707
DOI: 10.1186/s40985-020-00143-4 -
International Archives of Medicine 2014Tuberculosis is a contagious infectious disease mainly caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis that still meets the priority criteria - high magnitude,... (Review)
Review
Tuberculosis is a contagious infectious disease mainly caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis that still meets the priority criteria - high magnitude, transcendence and vulnerability - due to the threat it poses to public health. When taking into consideration the vulnerability conditions that favor the onset of the disease, this article aimed to investigate the implications originated from individual and social vulnerability conditions in which tuberculosis patients are inserted. Databases like MEDLINE, LILACS and SciELO were searched in Portuguese, Spanish and English using the descriptors tuberculosis and vulnerability, and 183 articles were found. After the selection criterion was applied, there were 22 publications left to be discussed. Some of the aspects that characterize the vulnerability to tuberculosis are: low-income and low-education families, age, poor living conditions, chemical dependency, pre-existing conditions/aggravations like diabetes mellitus and malnutrition, indigenous communities, variables related to health professionals, intense border crossings and migration, difficulty in accessing information and health services and lack of knowledge on tuberculosis. Much as such aspects are present and favor the onset of the disease, several reports show high incidence rates of tuberculosis in low vulnerability places, suggesting that some factors related to the disease are still unclear. In conclusion, health promotion is important in order to disfavor such conditions or factors of vulnerability to tuberculosis, making them a primary target in the public health planning process and disease control.
PubMed: 25067955
DOI: 10.1186/1755-7682-7-35 -
Cureus Jan 2022Migraine is a debilitating condition that places a substantial economic burden on society and seriously affects patients' quality of life. Currently, there is no known... (Review)
Review
Migraine is a debilitating condition that places a substantial economic burden on society and seriously affects patients' quality of life. Currently, there is no known "cure" for migraines, and pharmacologic treatments or prophylaxis carry many unwanted effects. Acupuncture has been accepted as an alternative treatment. However, its effectiveness is still debated. This is a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCT) that investigate acupuncture safety and efficacy in migraine versus various control groups. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane library using keywords: migraines, migraine with aura, migraine without aura, headache, acupuncture, and needling therapy. Two independent reviewers participated in data extraction and assessment. Fifteen randomized controlled trials involving 2,056 participants that met the inclusion criteria were obtained and analyzed. Based on the findings, seven out of 10 trials that compared acupuncture with sham acupuncture showed a more significant reduction in the frequency of migraine attacks and headache intensity. Four studies revealed acupuncture is just as effective and has fewer side effects than any western medicine. Acupuncture can be recommended as an alternative or adjunct to drug treatment for patients suffering migraines. However, further clinical trials that utilized the Standards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA) recommendation are still needed to strongly present an evidence-based strategy.
PubMed: 35145793
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.20888 -
JMIR Aging Jan 2024It is a contemporary and global challenge that the increasing number of older people requiring care will surpass the available caregivers. Solutions are needed to help... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
It is a contemporary and global challenge that the increasing number of older people requiring care will surpass the available caregivers. Solutions are needed to help older people maintain their health, prevent disability, and delay or avoid dependency on others. Technology can enable older people to age in place while maintaining their dignity and quality of life. Literature reviews on this topic have become important tools for researchers, practitioners, policy makers, and decision makers who need to navigate and access the extensive available evidence. Due to the large number and diversity of existing reviews, there is a need for a review of reviews that provides an overview of the range and characteristics of the evidence on technology for aging in place.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to explore the characteristics and the range of evidence on technologies for aging in place by conducting a scoping review of reviews and presenting an evidence map that researchers, policy makers, and practitioners may use to identify gaps and reviews of interest.
METHODS
The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). Literature searches were conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus using a search string that consisted of the terms "older people" and "technology for ageing in place," with alternate terms using Boolean operators and truncation, adapted to the rules for each database.
RESULTS
A total of 5447 studies were screened, with 344 studies included after full-text screening. The number of reviews on this topic has increased dramatically over time, and the literature is scattered across a variety of journals. Vocabularies and approaches used to describe technology, populations, and problems are highly heterogeneous. We have identified 3 principal ways that reviews have dealt with populations, 5 strategies that the reviews draw on to conceptualize technology, and 4 principal types of problems that they have dealt with. These may be understood as methods that can inform future reviews on this topic. The relationships among populations, technologies, and problems studied in the reviews are presented in an evidence map that includes pertinent gaps.
CONCLUSIONS
Redundancies and unexploited synergies between bodies of evidence on technology for aging in place are highly likely. These results can be used to decrease this risk if they are used to inform the design of future reviews on this topic. There is a need for an examination of the current state of the art in knowledge on technology for aging in place in low- and middle-income countries, especially in Africa.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Independent Living; Quality of Life; Aging; Technology; Administrative Personnel
PubMed: 38252472
DOI: 10.2196/50286 -
BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Jul 2018With an increasing ageing population in most countries, the role of general practitioners (GPs) and general practice nurses (GPNs) in providing optimal end of life (EoL)...
BACKGROUND
With an increasing ageing population in most countries, the role of general practitioners (GPs) and general practice nurses (GPNs) in providing optimal end of life (EoL) care is increasingly important.
OBJECTIVE
To explore: (1) patient and carer expectations of the role of GPs and GPNs at EoL; (2) GPs' and GPNs' contribution to advance care planning (ACP) and (3) if primary care involvement allows people to die in the place of preference.
METHOD
Systematic literature review.
DATA SOURCES
Papers from 2000 to 2017 were sought from Medline, Psychinfo, Embase, Joanna Briggs Institute and Cochrane databases.
RESULTS
From 6209 journal articles, 51 papers were relevant. Patients and carers expect their GPs to be competent in all aspects of palliative care. They valued easy access to their GP, a multidisciplinary approach to care and well-coordinated and informed care. They also wanted their care team to communicate openly, honestly and empathically, particularly as the patient deteriorated. ACP and the involvement of GPs were important factors which contributed to patients being cared for and dying in their preferred place. There was no reference to GPNs in any paper identified.
CONCLUSIONS
Patients and carers prefer a holistic approach to care. This review shows that GPs have an important role in ACP and that their involvement facilitates dying in the place of preference. Proactive identification of people approaching EoL is likely to improve all aspects of care, including planning and communicating about EoL. More work outlining the role of GPNs in end of life care is required.
PubMed: 30045939
DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2018-001549