Health Crisis Research Articles

Redefining Social Norms With Firearm Safety in Children: A Framework to Influence Change

Pediatric firearm violence is the number one cause of death in all children and a threat that must be addressed. Applying a harm reduction framework to this growing crisis recognizes that firearms exist and incorporates evidence-based practice actionable strategies for pediatric-focused Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to follow to address this public health crisis. This harm reduction framework encompasses several strategies, including an understanding of the physical and mental health care impact that pediatric firearm violence has on survivors, as well as recognizing the inherent health inequities associated with it. This framework also includes strategies to implement firearm safety education at the community level, discusses key laws and policies that pediatric-focused APRNs can advocate for to effect change, and raises awareness of accessible resources and funding for pediatric-focused APRNs to utilize.

Addressing burnout among nurses of color: Key priorities and calls for action

BackgroundNursing burnout remains a public health crisis. However, few stakeholders have considered the disproportionate toll of burnout among nurses of color, including nurses identifying as Black, Hispanic/Latino, or Native American. PurposeWe convened a one-day conference, titled Solutions to Health Inequities and Nurses’ Emotional Exhaustion (SHINE), to begin identifying contributing factors and solutions to burnout amongst nurses of color. MethodSHINE convened nearly 40 expert stakeholders. The convening included plenaries, small group discussions, and breakout sessions. We employed a deliberative dialogue (DD) methodology to identify key takeaways and implications for research, practice, and policy. DiscussionHigh-priority solutions included: improving the work environment and nurse staffing, reducing stigma against nurses seeking mental healthcare, addressing workplace racism as a root cause of nurse burnout, and increasing support for nurses experiencing racism at work. ConclusionKey priorities identified through SHINE offer a roadmap for nurse leaders to address burnout through an equity-centered lens.

Mass incarceration as a driver of the tuberculosis epidemic in Latin America and projected effects of policy alternatives: a mathematical modelling study

Tuberculosis incidence is increasing in Latin America, where the incarcerated population has nearly quadrupled since 1990. We aimed to quantify the impact of historical and future incarceration policies on the tuberculosis epidemic, accounting for effects in and beyond prisons. In this modelling study, we calibrated dynamic compartmental transmission models to historical and contemporary data from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, Mexico, and Peru, which comprise approximately 80% of the region's incarcerated population and tuberculosis burden. The model was fit independently for each country to incarceration and tuberculosis data from 1990 to 2023 (specific dates were country dependent). The model does not include HIV, drug resistance, gender or sex, or age structure. Using historical counterfactual scenarios, we estimated the transmission population attributable fraction (tPAF) for incarceration and the excess population-level burden attributable to increasing incarceration prevalence since 1990. We additionally projected the effect of alternative incarceration policies on future population tuberculosis incidence. Population tuberculosis incidence in 2019 was 29·4% (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 23·9-36·8) higher than expected without the rise in incarceration since 1990, corresponding to 34 393 (28 295-42 579) excess incident cases across countries. The incarceration tPAF in 2019 was 27·2% (20·9-35·8), exceeding estimates for other risk factors like HIV, alcohol use disorder, and undernutrition. Compared with a scenario where incarceration rates remain stable at current levels, a gradual 50% reduction in prison admissions and duration of incarceration by 2034 would reduce population tuberculosis incidence by over 10% in all countries except Mexico. The historical rise in incarceration in Latin America has resulted in a large excess tuberculosis burden that has been under-recognised to date. International health agencies, ministries of justice, and national tuberculosis programmes should collaborate to address this health crisis with comprehensive strategies, including decarceration. National Institutes of Health.

Insights into the Therapeutic and Pharmacological Properties of Resveratrol as a Nutraceutical Antioxidant Polyphenol in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

Resveratrol (3, 5, 4'-trihydroxystilbene) is a polyphenolic derivative with herbal origin. It has attracted considerable attention in recent decades. Many studies have revealed the benefits of Resveratrol over several human disease models, including heart and neurological diseases, nephroprotective, immune regulation, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, age-related diseases, antiviral, and anticancer in experimental and clinical conditions. Recently, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Resveratrol have been observed, and it has been shown that Resveratrol reduces inflammatory biomarkers, such as tissue degradation factor, cyclooxygenase 2, nitric oxide synthase, and interleukins. All of these activities appear to be dependent on its structural properties, such as the number and position of the hydroxyl group, which regulates oxidative stress, cell death, and inflammation. Resveratrol is well tolerated and safe even at higher pharmacological doses and desirably affects cardiovascular, neurological, and diabetic diseases. Consequently, it is plausible that Resveratrol can be regarded as a beneficial nutritional additive and a complementary drug, particularly for therapeutic applications. The present review provides an overview of currently available investigations on preventive and therapeutic characteristics and the main molecular mechanisms of Resveratrol and its potent derivatives in various diseases. Thus, this review would enhance knowledge and information about Resveratrol and encourage researchers worldwide to consider it as a pharmaceutical drug to struggle with future health crises against different human disorders.

Photocurrent-polarity-switching photoelectrochemical and electrochemical dual-mode sensing platform for the highly selective detection of trenbolone

As an emerging contaminant in the environment, trenbolone (TBE) has aroused a global health crisis and caused the huge impact on ecosystem. Its sensitive detection is critical to safeguard human health and ecosystem. Herein, a photocurrent polarity switching photoelectrochemical (PEC)-electrochemical (EC) dual-mode sensing platform was presented for highly selective and sensitive detection of TBE by ingeniously tailor signal probe. The tailored Cu2O@CuO-hemin acting as both photocurrent polarity reversal and electroactivity factor were cross-linked with TBE-BSA to obtain competitive conjugates for TBE. When the competitive response was initiated, numerous of Cu2O@CuO-hemin nanocomposites are introduced on the CdS-modified indium tin oxide electrode, serving as the reporting agent of EC/PEC dual-mode assay. The photocurrent polarity of the CdS-modified ITO can be effectively switched, enabling PEC analysis of TBE with distinguishing photocurrent changes. The linear response range is 1 pg/mL to 500 ng/mL, and the detection limit is 15.0 fg/mL. Meanwhile, the Cu2O@CuO could triggered the amplified current variations via effectually catalyzing the H2O2 decomposition compared to the CdS NPs, leading to the sensitive electrochemical detection of TBE with a detection limit 200 fg/mL and a linear response range from1 pg/mL to 500 ng/mL. Additionally, the developed sensing platform enabled mutual authentication of PEC/EC detection results, being conducive to increasing the assay reliability and accuracy. Such the dual-mode sensor has great potential for detecting environmental pollutants due to its improved selectivity and mutual authentication of results.

Mental Health Symptoms Among US College Students Before, Early, and Late Into the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Analysis

PurposeTo study how COVID-19 stress-related factors and changes in psychosocial resources during the pandemic contributed to changes in mental health symptoms among first-year college students during the pandemic. MethodsUsing data on 339 first-year students (ages 18–20) at a large public university in North Carolina, we evaluated changes in anxiety and depression symptoms from before to early and later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, we estimated longitudinal associations of chronic stress, COVID-19 stress/stressors and psychosocial resources with anxiety and depression symptoms using a first-difference model. ResultsWe found that mental health symptoms increased significantly 4 months into the pandemic. Eighteen months into the pandemic, depression symptoms had returned to prepandemic levels, but anxiety symptoms had not. Chronic stress, social isolation, and distanced learning were significant risk factors; resilience was significantly protective. Results varied by the presence/absence of moderate-severe anxiety/depression symptoms prepandemic. DiscussionMental health symptoms for first-year college students were at already high levels prepandemic and have not improved 18 months into the pandemic. Colleges may help address this growing mental health crisis through bolstering social connectedness and resilience.

Behind the graduate mental health crisis in science.

Behind the graduate mental health crisis in science.

Zambia's First Mpox Case: An Emerging Challenge in Southern Africa Amid a Global Health Crisis

Zambia's First Mpox Case: An Emerging Challenge in Southern Africa Amid a Global Health Crisis

Investigating the association between housing mobility and self-reported adolescent suicidality and mental health.

Suicide continues to be a public health crisis among adolescents in the United States. Suicide prevention requires a comprehensive understanding of the factors that lead to death from suicide. Housing stability is an important social determinant of health, and literature has begun to describe how housing instability can affect mental health, as well as suicidal behavior. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between lifetime housing mobility among adolescents and suicidal behavior (both ideation and attempt). This study examines disparities in housing mobility and suicidal behavior to determine whether certain population subgroups are disproportionately impacted. We undertook a cross-sectional study using data from Wisconsin's Youth Risk Behavior Survey administered during the Fall of 2019, which assessed Wisconsin middle and high school students. We find that housing mobility, as measured in the lifetime number of residences, was associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior. We also demonstrate disparities by race, disability status, and sexual orientation. Findings from this study can be used to not only drive change to support students at the school or school district level but also to drive policy change at the societal level. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Societal Adaptation to Pandemic Challenges: Analysing the Role of Local Governance and Healthcare Systems in Madhya Pradesh

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, compelling communities globally to adapt rapidly to protect lives and maintain societal functions. This study examines the role of local governance and healthcare systems in Madhya Pradesh in addressing these challenges and fostering societal resilience. Drawing on quantitative data from government health agencies and qualitative insights from community feedback, this research explores how local governance structures facilitated public health response, resource allocation, and pandemic preparedness. Findings indicate that decentralized decision-making and robust healthcare infrastructure were instrumental in managing health crises, providing essential services, and supporting economic resilience at the grassroots level. Key results show that regions with stronger local governance exhibited a 30% lower infection rate compared to less governed areas, while areas with well-resourced healthcare systems saw a 20% higher recovery rate. Resource distribution, however, varied significantly, with urban areas receiving 60% more medical supplies than rural regions, creating disparities in healthcare access. Data analysis revealed that healthcare facilities that integrated digital solutions, such as telemedicine, were able to serve 45% more patients remotely, mitigating the risk of virus spread and reducing hospital overload. The study identifies the need for capacity-building initiatives, infrastructure strengthening, and data-driven decision-making to enhance future pandemic preparedness. Future prospects include continuous training programs for healthcare workers, increasing community awareness of health protocols, and leveraging technology for real-time data monitoring. These insights contribute to a comprehensive framework for building resilient healthcare systems in Madhya Pradesh, better prepared for future public health crises.

Use of Technology in the Management and Treatment of Prediabetes, A New Era: A Case Report Series

Introduction: The escalating prevalence of prediabetes has positioned it as a silent precursor to a looming public health crisis, particularly as it paves the way for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This case series report explores the transformative role of technology, specifically the Sugar Fit’s Diabetes Reversal and Management Program (SDRMP), in the treatment and management of prediabetic patients. Methods: The case series follows the progress of two patients aged 31-44 with prediabetes utilizing the SDRMP to prevent the progression to diabetes. The interventions for both patients involved continuous glucose monitoring, personalized nutrition plans, fitness strategies, and behavioral modifications. The patients also engaged in regular communication with their life coaches through the Sugar Fit application, ensuring ongoing support and adherence to the program. Results: The results revealed significant improvements in glycemic control, lipid profiles, and overall well-being. The first patient, a 44-year-old male, demonstrated a successful return to normal glycemic control in 177 days through a comprehensive approach involving dietary changes, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. The second patient, a 31-year-old male, achieved normal glycemic control in a comparable timeframe, showcasing the effectiveness of the SDRMP. Discussion and Conclusion: These cases demonstrate that patients were able to adhere to the goals of care, preventing the progression of prediabetes to diabetes and improving insulin resistance. The study also underscores the potential impact of technology on public health outcomes, bridging the gap between traditional interventions and the evolving needs of a tech-savvy population. The synergy between healthcare expertise and technological innovation not only arrests the progression of prediabetes but also contributes to a broader societal shift towards metabolic well-being, paving the way for a healthier future. Future monitoring is essential to ensure the maintenance of lifestyle modifications and continued success in preventing diabetes.

Global Overview of Suicidal Behavior and Risk Factors among General Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and a Meta-Regression.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health worldwide, leading to increased rates of suicidal behavior. This systematic review and meta-regression aim to investigate the global prevalence and risk factors associated with suicidal behaviors in the general population during the pandemic. The study included 202 articles from January 1, 2019, to October 31, 2023, sourced from databases such as Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The meta-analysis revealed a prevalence of 13.5% for suicidal ideation, 10.4% for suicide attempts, and a death rate of 0.5%, translating to 4.52 per 100,000 person-years. Significant risk factors identified include being transgender, young adults (18-44years), unmarried status, low education, retirement, living alone, low social support, a history of suicide attempts, substance use, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sleep problems, poor perceived physical health, loneliness, quarantine, and residing in the Americas or multiple regions. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions during pandemics, focusing on high-risk groups such as young adults, transgender individuals, those with low social support, and people with mental health issues. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare providers to develop effective strategies to mitigate the heightened risk of suicide during global health crises.

Rapid reagent-free anaemia screening using plant-derived “HemoQR” paper-strips and smartphone: A study on 200 human subjects

Detecting anaemia in resource-limited settings is challenging due to limited access to diagnostic tools, healthcare infrastructure, and trained personnel, often resulting in underdiagnosis and delayed treatment. This study aims to evaluate HemoQR, a novel point-of-care (POC) diagnostic method for haemoglobin (Hb) level detection using a smartphone-based system integrated with a paper strip without needing any reagent or additional auxiliary device. The goal is to assess the efficacy of this portable, user-friendly, rapid and accurate alternative for Hb measurement in large-scale intervention programmes such as Anaemia-mukt Bharat (AMB), which is crucial for diagnosing anaemia and monitoring various health conditions. The method involves the transfer of one drop of the blood sample to a paper strip that is made indigenously using plant based cellulosic sources for optimal functionality. The colour signal around the test spot is quantitatively analysed using a smartphone camera equipped with a custom application. The application processes the images through a machine learning algorithm to determine the Hb concentration. The system was evaluated in a clinical trial involving 200 participants, comparing its performance with the gold-standard laboratory Hb assay using automated haematology analyser. The smartphone-based method demonstrated high sensitivity (87.09 %) and specificity (96.11 %) for anaemia screening, as compared with laboratory results. The average detection time was significantly reduced to under q minute, and the system showed excellent user-friendliness and portability with no auxiliary device needed beyond the smartphone. Clinical trial results indicated that the device was accurate and reliable across different Hb levels. Summarily, HemoQR evidenced to be a promising tool for POC diagnostics. Its high accuracy, rapid results, and ease of use make it suitable for both clinical settings and remote areas with limited access to laboratory facilities. Future research will prioritize further validation and integration of the anaemia screening outcome with electronic health records from a large population cohort. This will help identify early indicators and signals of numerous emerging disease burdens that could escalate into secondary and tertiary health crises if not addressed in time.

A qualitative investigation of crisis cafés in England: their role, implementation, and accessibility

BackgroundCrisis cafés (also known as crisis sanctuaries or havens) are community-based services which support people in mental health crises, aiming to provide an informal, non-clinical and accessible setting. This model is increasingly popular in the UK; however, we are aware of no peer-reviewed literature focused on this model. We aimed to investigate the aims of crisis cafés, how they operate in practice and the factors that affect access to these services and implementation of the intended model.MethodsA qualitative approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 managers of crisis cafés across England. These interviews explored managers’ views on the implementation of their services, and the factors that help and hinder successful implementation. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic approach.ResultsWe identified five main perceived aims for crisis cafés: providing an alternative to Emergency Departments; improving access to crisis care; providing people in acute distress with someone to talk to in a safe and comfortable space; triaging effectively; and improving crisis planning and people’s coping skills. Factors seen as influencing the effectiveness of crisis cafés included accessibility, being able to deliver person-centred care, relationships with other services, and staffing. These factors could both help and hinder access to care and the implementation of the intended model. There were a number of trade-offs that services had to consider when designing and running a crisis café: (1) Balancing an open-door policy with managing demand for the service through referral routes, (2) Balancing risk management procedures with the remit of offering a non-clinical environment and (3) Increasing awareness of the service in the community whilst avoiding stigmatising perceptions of it.ConclusionsFindings illustrate the aims of the crisis café model of care and factors which are influential in its implementation in current practice. Future research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of these services in relation to their aims. Crisis café service users’ views, and views of stakeholders from the wider crisis care system should also be ascertained.

Mucormycosis and COVID-19: Unraveling the Interplay of Fungal Infection in a Global Health Crisis: An Overview.

The healthcare system has been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, result-ing in an increase in secondary and co-infections among patients. Factors like pulmonary dam-age and weakened immune systems make patients more susceptible to fungal infections. Mu-cormycosis, an opportunistic fungal infection, prospers in environments with limited oxygen, and elevated glucose levels due to conditions such as diabetes and steroid use, as well as in acidic environments from metabolic acidosis and diabetic ketoacidosis, where it demonstrates heightened germination ability. Recognizing these complications is critical to minimize harm to patients. The insights gained from this review can improve our understanding of how fungal infections develop in connection to COVID-19, leading to better predictive algorithms, tailored care plans, enhanced antifungal treatments, quicker diagnostics, and improved management strategies.

Intersecting social and environmental determinants of multidrug-resistant urinary tract infections in East Africa beyond antibiotic use

The global health crisis of antibacterial resistance (ABR) poses a particular threat in low-resource settings like East Africa. Interventions for ABR typically target antibiotic use, overlooking the wider set of factors which drive vulnerability and behaviours. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the joint contribution of behavioural, environmental, socioeconomic, and demographic factors associated with higher risk of multi-drug resistant urinary tract infections (MDR UTIs) in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. We sampled outpatients with UTI symptoms in healthcare facilities and linked their microbiology data with patient, household and community level data. Using bivariate statistics and Bayesian profile regression on a sample of 1610 individuals, we show that individuals with higher risk of MDR UTIs were more likely to have compound and interrelated social and environmental disadvantages: they were on average older, with lower education, had more chronic illness, lived in resource-deprived households, more likely to have contact with animals, and human or animal waste. This suggests that interventions to tackle ABR need to take account of intersectional socio-environmental disadvantage as a priority.

Genomic Epidemiology of Antimicrobial Resistance: Tracking the Global Spread of Resistant Pathogens

The rapid development and spread of antimicrobial resistance have been one of the most prominent health crises globally, which significantly challenges treating infectious diseases. This paper will address the contribution that genomic epidemiology makes to track and understand the global spread of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. Genomic epidemiology, an area combining pathogen genomics with epidemiological data, allows for an extremely powerful approach in the identification of resistance mechanisms and tracing transmission routes for guiding public health interventions. This review Emphasizes major bacterial pathogens, such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which harbor major resistance genes: blaCTX-M, mecA, and blaKPC. These genes contribute to the worldwide dissemination of resistance, mainly through mechanisms involving horizontal gene transfer and selective antibiotic pressure. Thus, genomic surveillance, phylogenetic analysis, and bioinformatics approaches allow for the pinpointing of transmission hotspots, mapping of resistance gene distribution, and tracking of emerging resistant strains in real time. It also provides information on how genomic data are being used to improve antimicrobial stewardship programs and inform clinical treatment decisions. Public health responses can further be tailored by recognizing regional resistance patterns, hence enhancing interventions. However, several challenges persist—for example, the need for standardized sharing of data, interpretation of genomic data, and integration of these insights into public health systems, especially in low-resource settings. This abstract highlights the transformative impact of genomic epidemiology in the management of the AMR crisis while emphasizing the continued need for global cooperation, enhanced data infrastructures, and policy initiatives to ensure the effective use of genomic data in public health.

A sales force effectiveness framework for enhancing healthcare access through pharmaceutical sales and training programs

This paper introduces a conceptual framework aimed at enhancing sales force effectiveness within the pharmaceutical industry, specifically focusing on improving healthcare access through optimized sales training programs and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. The proposed framework recognizes the critical role that pharmaceutical sales teams play in facilitating healthcare delivery, particularly during public health crises. It emphasizes the integration of effective training strategies and advanced CRM tools to enhance engagement with healthcare professionals, thereby improving product distribution and patient outcomes. The framework comprises three essential components Sales Force Training Enhancement, which focuses on developing targeted training programs that equip sales representatives with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively communicate the value of pharmaceutical products to healthcare providers. This includes understanding clinical data, addressing healthcare providers’ concerns, and fostering a consultative selling approach. Secondly, CRM System Implementation, which underscores the significance of adopting robust CRM systems that streamline interactions between sales teams and healthcare professionals. By leveraging data analytics and customer insights, pharmaceutical companies can tailor their approach to meet the specific needs of healthcare providers, thereby enhancing relationship-building and communication. Thirdly, engagement and Outcome Measurement, which highlights the importance of measuring engagement levels and patient outcomes resulting from effective sales strategies. This component advocates for the use of key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the impact of training and CRM initiatives on product distribution and healthcare access. The framework ultimately aims to foster a more collaborative environment between pharmaceutical sales teams and healthcare professionals, ensuring that patients receive timely access to essential medications and services. By focusing on the strategic integration of training and CRM systems, this framework presents a comprehensive approach to improving sales force effectiveness in the pharmaceutical sector. Future research and practical applications of this framework can further explore its implications for enhancing healthcare access, particularly in times of public health challenges.

Artificial Intelligence And Big Data For Enhancing Public Health Surveillance And Disease Prevention: A Systematic Review

This systematic review explores the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data analytics in enhancing public health outcomes, focusing on key areas such as disease surveillance, resource allocation, and personalized preventive healthcare. In the wake of increasing healthcare challenges, the integration of AI technologies and Big Data offers unprecedented opportunities for improving health monitoring, early disease detection, and strategic resource management. Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a comprehensive review was conducted across multiple databases, resulting in an initial pool of 450 articles. After applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 90 high-quality studies were systematically analyzed. The findings demonstrate that AI models, particularly those leveraging machine learning, significantly enhance the early detection of outbreaks and optimize healthcare resource allocation, especially during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the use of predictive analytics in personalized preventive healthcare has shown promise in reducing the burden of chronic diseases by identifying at-risk populations and tailoring interventions based on individual risk profiles. However, challenges related to data quality, standardization, and ethical concerns continue to hinder the widespread adoption of these technologies. The review emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and robust data governance frameworks to fully realize the potential of AI and Big Data in public health. This study not only highlights current advancements but also identifies gaps in research, offering insights into future directions for integrating AI-driven solutions to strengthen public health systems globally.

Cryptocurrencies Versus Gold: Safe-Haven Competition

This study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on two cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin and Ethereum, on the one hand, and gold, on the other hand. We analysed a large dataset from 13 countries worldwide. This study aimed to identify a reliable safe haven for investors during a health crisis. Our results indicated a positive association between Bitcoin and Ethereum prices and the COVID-19 variables. However, the relationship between gold prices and COVID-19 health indicators differed among countries, with inconsistent results.