Optimal Health Research Articles

Abstract P324: Masked Hypertension Mimicking Migraine: A Case Report with Diagnostic Odyssey

Introduction: Masked hypertension (MH) involves normal office blood pressure but elevated readings outside clinical settings, increasing cardiovascular and neurological risks. About 10-30% of the population may have MH, often undiagnosed. This case highlights the importance of considering MH. Case Presentation: A 42-year-old woman had recurrent headaches for six months: bilateral, pulsating pain in the temples, with dizziness and occasional vomiting, lasting 2-4 hours, worsening after work. Diagnosed with migraines and treated with sumatriptan without relief. Medical history included a caesarean section; otherwise, she was healthy. Physical exam showed normal vital signs, including blood pressure at 130/80 mmHg. Neurological and ophthalmological evaluations were normal. Lab investigations were unremarkable. The patient had a normal BMI of 21.3. Further workup, including ECG, MRI, CT scan, and neck radiography, all normal. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) revealed elevated blood pressure during evening hours (post work), starting around 4 pm and rising until 8-9 pm. Thereafter, blood pressure normalized to 110-130 mmHg systolic and 70-80 mmHg diastolic. To rule out nephrogenic hypertension, an ultrasound of the kidneys, renal function tests, urinalysis, and plasma metanephrine tests were negative. Following the exclusion of other causes, a diagnosis of MH was established. The patient started on Telmisartan 20 mg daily, with lifestyle modifications. Follow-up ABPM showed normalized blood pressure, and the patient reported no further headaches. Discussion: MH affects many but often remains undiagnosed due to normal clinic readings. Ambulatory or home blood pressure monitoring is essential for diagnosis. Timely diagnosis of MH is crucial, given its association with heightened risks of stroke and cardiovascular disease. Studies have revealed significantly elevated left ventricular mass index, maximal intima-media thickness, and urinary albumin levels. Consequences include left ventricular hypertrophy, carotid atherosclerosis, and albuminuria. Conclusion: Early recognition and management of MH are vital for preventing complications. Diagnosis can be achieved by home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) or 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure. This case stresses considering MH in patients with normal office readings but persistent symptoms, advocating for regular monitoring and patient education for optimal health outcomes.

Antimicrobial resistance among migrants in Europe: a systematic review and meta-analysis – update from 2017 to 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health concern. A previous systematic review showed that migrants in Europe are at increased risk of AMR. Since the COVID-19 pandemic there have been rapid changes in patterns of antibiotic use, AMR, and migration. We aimed to present an updated evidence synthesis on the current distribution of AMR among migrants in Europe. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022343263). We searched databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed and Scopus) from 18 January 2017 until 18 January 2023 to identify primary data from observational studies reporting any laboratory-confirmed AMR among migrants in the European Economic Area (EEA) and European Union-15 (EU-15) countries using over 7 key search terms for migrants and over 70 terms for AMR and countries in Europe. Outcomes were infection with, or colonisation of AMR bacteria. Methodological quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Observational Studies. We meta-analysed the pooled-prevalence of infection and/or colonisation of AMR organisms. Among 630 articles, 21 observational studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The pooled prevalence for any detected AMR was 28.0% (95% CI 18.0%-41.0%, I 2 =100%) compared to a 25.4% seen in the previous review; gram-negative bacteria 31.0% (95% CI 20.0%-44.0%, I 2 =100%), and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus 10.0% (95% CI 5.0%-16.0%, I 2 =99%). Drug-resistant bacteria were more prevalent in community settings in large migrant populations (pooled prevalence: 41.0%, 95% CI 24.0%-60.0%, I 2 =99%) than in hospitals (21.0%, 95% CI 12.0%-32.0%, I 2 =99%). AMR estimates in 'other' migrants were 32.0%, (95% CI 12.0%-57.0%, I 2 =100%) and 28.0% (95% CI 18.0%-38.0%, I 2=100%) in forced migrants. No firm evidence of AMR acquisition with arrival time or length of stay in the host country was found. Studies investigating AMR in migrants are highly heterogenous. However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, migrants may be at higher risk of acquiring resistant bacteria, particularly gram-negative bacteria, within community settings such as refugee camps and detention centres in Europe. Our study highlights the importance of infrastructure and hygiene measures within these settings, to mitigate transmission of resistant pathogens. Policy-makers should screen for AMR in migrants prior to departure from countries of origin, where feasible, and upon arrival to a new country to ensure optimal health screening, infection control and effective treatment. There was no funding source for this study.

Setting the Agenda for Patient-Centered Research in Infant and Young-Child Feeding: Results from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere.

Background: Breastfeeding is critically important for optimal health of both birthing people and their infants. Shared, patient-centered goals of how health care team members, community groups, and families can help facilitate breastfeeding success are needed, as are ways to define and measure what breastfeeding success looks like from the patient's perspective. Methods: The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere's collaborated in a multi-methods approach to identify breastfeeding priorities most important to parents. Results: We identified (1) Key components of a successful breastfeeding journey defined by parents and families, (2) Research priorities that will enable families to achieve breastfeeding. Conclusion: Dissemination of these findings can foster research efforts that are codesigned with birthing parents and families and reflect their priorities.

Fraud in genetic testing: Swindling the system

PurposeHealth care fraud comprises a sizable portion of US health care expenditure and inflicts undue burden on payers, patients, and the health care system overall. The genetic testing industry is rapidly growing, which propagates opportunities for health care fraud. Although federal organizations have highlighted it as an issue, there is limited research exploring genetic testing fraud. MethodsA retrospective review of federal websites, news articles, and a legal database resulted in 42 cases of fraud involving outpatient genetic testing published between February 2019 and December 2023. These cases were analyzed for themes via inductive conventional content analysis. ResultsThemes of fraudulent activity included submission of fraudulent claims, kickback or bribe payments, minimal or no contact with patients for whom testing was ordered for, inappropriate billing and documentation practices, and further actions to conceal fraud. Repercussions imposed on defendants included monetary penalty, imprisonment, business restrictions, and seizure of property. ConclusionHigh rates of medically inappropriate testing in fraud cases highlight the value of genetics experts in ordering or reviewing claims for genetic testing. Examining fraudulent activity in genetic testing can help providers identify and report fraud and provide awareness of optimal health care allocation in the genetic testing industry.

An Integration of Adaptive Control Techniques with Portable Solar-Powered EV Charging with Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)

Abstract: This paper presents a novel approach utilizing Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for enhancing the efficiency of solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. With the increasing adoption of EVs and the imperative to transition towards renewable energy sources, optimizing the utilization of solar power for charging becomes crucial. The proposed system integrates photovoltaic (PV) panels to harness solar energy, providing a sustainable and renewable power source for EV charging. The key innovation lies in the application of PSO, a nature-inspired optimization algorithm, to dynamically adjust charging parameters based on real-time environmental conditions, grid electricity prices, and EV battery requirements. PSO offers a robust and efficient method for solving optimization problems by simulating the behavior of swarms in nature. In the context of solar-powered EV charging, the PSO algorithm iteratively adjusts charging rates and schedules to maximize solar energy utilization, minimize charging costs, and ensure optimal battery health. The integration of PSO optimization with solarpowered EV charging represents a promising step towards achieving sustainable and intelligent transportation solutions. Future research directions may include further optimization refinements, scalability studies, and real-world deployment to validate the practicality and effectiveness of the proposed approach in diverse environments and usage scenarios.

Swedana Karma (Sweating Therapy) - A Brief Review

The human body is among the most fascinating natural wonders. It is a highly complex multicellular organism whose life and well-being rely on appropriate homeostasis, coordination, and harmony between the self and environment. Ayurveda is the science of health; it offers therapeutic and preventive methods for restoring tissue homeostasis and helping people reach optimal health. Swedana, also known as body sweating, is a typical therapeutic technique used in Ayurvedic medicine. Swedana is recommended for its calming or cleansing properties throughout the traditional Ayurvedic scriptures. It can be performed as an independent intervention or as a prelude to Panchakarma, or the five detoxification procedures.

Geriatric assessment for the practicing clinician: The why, what, and how.

Older adults with cancer heterogeneously experience health care, treatment, and symptoms. Geriatric assessment (GA) offers a comprehensive evaluation of an older individual's health status and can predict cancer-related outcomes in individuals with solid tumors and those with hematologic malignancies. In the last decade, randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the benefits of GA and GA management (GAM), which uses GA information to provide tailored intervention strategies to address GA impairments (e.g., implementing physical therapy for impaired physical function). Multiple phase 3 clinical trials in older adults with solid tumors and hematologic malignancies have demonstrated that GAM improves treatment completion, quality of life, communication, and advance care planning while reducing treatment-related toxicity, falls, and polypharmacy. Nonetheless, implementation and uptake of GAM remain challenging. Various strategies have been proposed, including the use of GA screening tools, to identify patients most likely to benefit from GAM, the systematic engagement of the oncology workforce in the delivery of GAM, and the integration of technologies like telemedicine and mobile health to enhance the availability of GA and GAM interventions. Health inequities in minoritized groups persist, and systematic GA implementation has the potential to capture social determinants of health that are relevant to equitable care. Caregivers play an important role in cancer care and experience burden themselves. GA can guide dyadic supportive care interventions, ultimately helping both patients and caregivers achieve optimal health.

Trends in the integration of medical corporation hospitals in Japan: a national wide longitudinal study between 2017 and 2021

BackgroundMedical corporations, which are non-profit organizations that aim to operate hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities, account for more than half of all hospital beds and play a central role in the health care system in Japan. However, limited analysis of hospital integration has been performed. Examining the hospital integration trends of medical corporations can provide valuable insights for optimizing health care delivery and resource allocation in Japan. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of trends in the hospital integration of medical corporations and market concentration in Japan using nationwide longitudinal data.MethodsThis longitudinal study evaluated the hospital integration of medical corporations in Japan between 2017 and 2021 using medical corporation financial data provided by the Neostage Company. The target population was medical corporations that own hospitals in Japan. The primary outcomes were the horizontal and vertical integration of medical corporation hospitals. Horizontal integration was defined as the integration of two or more hospitals within the same corporation, while vertical integration was defined as the integration of a hospital with different types of health care facilities, such as clinics or long-term care facilities, within a single medical corporation. The Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) was calculated to measure hospital market concentration using hospital bed data for medical corporations in all prefectures.ResultsThe number of hospitals and hospital beds within medical corporations decreased from 5,670 to 848,174 in 2017 to 5,486 and 814,462 in 2021, respectively. Both horizontal and vertical integration among medical corporation facilities showed a gradual upward trend, increasing from 24.92% to 55.75% in 2017 to 26.92% and 59.42% in 2021, respectively. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) HHI increased slightly from 262.7 (178.6) in 2017 to 275.2 (187.9) in 2021, with rural areas being more concentrated than urban areas, although both remained unconcentrated.ConclusionsThis longitudinal study revealed a gradual downward trend in the number of hospitals and hospital beds owned by medical corporations, while horizontal and vertical integration gradually progressed without any particular medical corporation dominating the market. These findings are expected to contribute to policymaking efforts aimed at providing optimal health care services in Japan.

How enabling factors determine unmet healthcare needs? A panel data approach for countries

Health service need refers to the essential care required to achieve optimal health outcomes within resource constraints. When necessary services to address identified health issues are not received, unmet needs arise. This research focuses on the determinants of unmet healthcare needs across the 34 countries within the European region from 2011 to 2019, focusing on Andersen's Behavioral Model's enabling factors. We employed a static and robust panel regression model using Stata 14.0 software. Key determinants analyzed include GDP per capita, urbanization rate, and physicians per capita. Findings reveal that lower GDP per capita and lower urbanization rates are significantly correlated with higher levels of unmet healthcare needs, highlighting income level and geographical accessibility as critical factors. Additionally, a higher number of physicians per capita is associated with reduced unmet healthcare needs, indicating the importance of healthcare resources in addressing healthcare access gaps. These findings underscore the importance of targeted healthcare policies that address income level, improve healthcare accessibility, and enhance healthcare resource allocation to reduce unmet healthcare needs effectively. These findings equip policymakers and administrators with empirically grounded insights to comprehend the factors contributing to unmet healthcare needs and to develop policies aimed at addressing this challenge.

ApoLink: Terhubung Langsung dengan Apoteker untuk Mendapatkan Layanan Kesehatan Terbaik

The development of the digital era and technological advances have had a significant impact on various aspects of human life, including in the health sector. Information systems have become an important tool in presenting information effectively and efficiently. In this case, advances in the internet and telemedicine have changed the way health services are provided to the public. This research aims to develop an application called Apolink that connects directly with pharmacists, thus providing optimal health services. The research method used is qualitative with an emphasis on literature studies, interviews, and direct observation at the pharmacy. The research process includes analysis of system requirements based on drug data, customer data, sales data, and health consultations. In the analysis conducted, it was revealed that telemedicine services, such as consultations with doctors remotely, ordering medicines, and up-to-date health information, have many advantages. Telemedicine services can save time for doctors and patients, increase the accessibility of health services, and overcome geographic barriers. In addition, telemedicine can also reduce costs, improve medication adherence, and provide better clinical support. Based on this needs analysis, the Apolink application is developed with features that can meet user needs.

Together we win! Narratives of couples pursuing a healthy diet and physical activity: A qualitative study.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The risk of MetS can be transmitted via epigenetic processes from both the mother and the father. Therefore, it is essential that both members of a couple are targeted in pre-conception nutrition and physical activity-based lifestyle programs. However, lifestyle interventions targeting both members of a couple are scarce in the literature. This study, therefore, aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators of a couples-based lifestyle intervention. Nulliparous couples who had an interest in having children in the future were recruited to the study and each member interviewed separately to gain insight into to gain insight into designing future couples-based lifestyle interventions. Interviews were conducted between June and October 2021. Reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) was applied to conduct and analyse semi-structured, in-depth interviews with nulliparous couples who had an interest in having children in the future. Four major themes were identified in nine couples aged 25-34 years (here referred to as "millennials"): Millennials are committed to preparation for their future offspring; millennials know features of a good program likely to have high adherence and long-term behavior change; millennials acknowledge the importance of couples-based programs; and millennials appreciate that future global emergencies may require lifestyle modifications. This study found that millennial couples showed a strong intention to create optimal emotional, financial, and health conditions for their children. They supported couples-based approach (CBA) lifestyle interventions to mitigate potential epigenetic risks. Couples believed that participating together in these programs would enhance adherence to healthy habits, promoting long-term well-being. The findings advocate for exploring and testing CBA interventions that target both partners, as joint participation not only aids in healthy conception and reduces metabolic syndrome risks but also establishes a foundation for family health. These insights highlight the potential of CBA interventions to positively impact future generations.

Assessment of entropy accumulation in human subjects when exposed to low energy availability

Background & aimsAdequate energy availability is essential for the body to maintain its physiological functions and achieve optimal health, especially among athletes. Unfortunately, low energy availability (LEA) is common among athletes, and it has been associated with impairments in health and performance. In contrast, an energy-restricted diet has been linked to longevity, but it is unclear how LEA affects athletes’ lifespans. The goal of the present study was to assess the impact of LEA thermodynamically on the lifespan of athletes. MethodsData from seven healthy young endurance-trained athletes (24 ± 4 years) who underwent short-term low energy availability (125 (kJ/day) per kg FFM) once with low protein content (LEA-LP; 0.8 g/kg) and with high protein content (LEA-HP; 125 (kJ/day) per kg FFM, 1.7 g/kg), as well as a control diet (CON; 230 (kJ/day) per kg FFM, 1.7 g/kg), were used in the calculations. The athletes followed each diet for five days and expended 67.5 (kJ/day) per kg FFM. entropy generation-based thermodynamic calculations were performed based on the metabolic activity of the athletes, which was determined from oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production rates. ResultsLow energy availability was successfully induced during LEA-LP (62 ± 8 (kJ/day) per kg FFM; 95%Cl: 53–70) and LEA-HP (64 ± 8 (kJ/day) per kg FFM; 95%Cl: 56–71) diets. Despite of achieving energy deficit of −6658 ± 2110 kJ/day (95%Cl: 8609-(−) 4707) (LEA-LP), −5781 ± 623 (95%Cl: 26591-(−)4707) (LEA-HP) and excessive energy of 772 ± 1915 (95%Cl: 845-2388) (CON) statistical analyses revealed no significant differences in lifespan estimations among diets (CON: 72 ± 8 years (95%Cl: 65–79), LEA-LP: 74 ± 7 years (95%Cl: 68–80), and LEA-HP: 73 ± 11 (95%Cl: 62–83)). ConclusionsThis study suggests valuable insights into the intricate relationship between energy availability, entropy generation, and lifespan among athletes. Whereas entropy generation levels and the lifespan of athletes remained stable depending on diets, the distinguished differences in energy deficiency and energy availability underline the need for a profounder investigation of underlying physiological mechanisms to improve the health and performance of athletes.

Associations between perceived cancer impact and measures of health behavior in survivors of childhood cancer.

Perceived cancer impact (PCI) is the degree to which one feels cancer has impacted one's life. It is unknown if PCI is associated with health behaviors. The aim of this study is to determine associations between PCI and health behaviors in childhood cancer survivors. Participants were ≥ 5-year survivors enrolled in the St. Jude Lifetime (SJLIFE) cohort. The Brief Cancer Impact (BCIA) assessed PCI across four domains (caregiving/finances, diet/exercise, social/emotional functioning, religiosity). Responses were categorized as negative, neutral, or positive impact. Smoking, risky drinking, illicit drug use, and diet quality data were obtained via self-report. Physical activity (PA) was assessed via self-report and actigraphy. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between PCI and health behaviors were evaluated via multivariable logistic regression. A total of 3623 participants (mean age 30.4 ± 8.3years, 49.6% female, 81.5% NH White) were included in baseline cross-sectional analysis; 1709 had a second visit 5.0 ± 1.4years later and were included in longitudinal analysis. At baseline, the percentage of participants who endorsed cancer as having a negative impact on caregiving/finances was 37.5%, diet/exercise 30.5%, social/emotional functioning 40.6%, and religiosity 8.7%. Negative and neutral PCI across all four domains were cross-sectionally associated with all behaviors except illicit drug use. Negative and neutral PCI at the first time point across all four domains were associated with smoking, diet quality, and PA (ORs ranging from 1.35 to 2.41) in longitudinal analyses. Endorsing negative or neutral PCI is associated with adverse health behaviors. Promoting optimal health behavior should include addressing PCI.

The Genetics of Human Sleep and Sleep Disorders.

Healthy sleep is vital for humans to achieve optimal health and longevity. Poor sleep and sleep disorders are strongly associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, the importance of good sleep continues to be underrecognized. Mechanisms regulating sleep and its functions in humans remain mostly unclear even after decades of dedicated research. Advancements in gene sequencing techniques and computational methodologies have paved the way for various genetic analysis approaches, which have provided some insights into human sleep genetics. This review summarizes our current knowledge of the genetic basis underlying human sleep traits and sleep disorders. We also highlight the use of animal models to validate genetic findings from human sleep studies and discuss potential molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in the regulation of human sleep.

Prevalence of Lifestyle Factors Among Primary Care Physicians: A Cross-Sectional Study in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction The importance of a healthy lifestyle has grown in significance on a global scale, as it offers a vital means of preventing and managing a range of related illnesses. Consequently, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is of paramount importance for the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases. The lifestyle behaviors of healthcare workers exert a significant influence on their attitudes and counseling methods, as they play a pivotal role in the promotion of health and the dissemination of lifestyle education to patients and the general population. Objective The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of lifestyle factors among primary care physicians in Al-Ahsa Governorate, including smoking, body mass index, nutrition, physical activity, and caffeine consumption. Methods The study was conducted between December 2023 and February 2024. A total of 233 primary care physicians in Al-Ahsa were selected through a probability multistage clustering sampling method. Data were collected via the distribution of a self-administered questionnaire to the primary care physicians and were analyzed using the chi-square test. Results A greater proportion of primary care physicians exhibited multiple unhealthy lifestyle factors (166/233, 71.2%). The most prevalent lifestyle factor was low physical activity (169/233, 73%), followed by poor nutrition (121/233, 52%), obesity (120/233, 51.51%), smoking (37/233, 15.88%), and caffeine consumption (22/233, 9%). The majority of primary care physicians with optimal health status are employed in primary healthcare (PHC) facilities situated in the eastern region followed by the southern region in Al-Ahsa Governorate. Conclusion The study findings revealed a prevalence of unhealthy lifestyle factors among the majority of primary care physicians in the Al-Ahsa Governorate. The most prevalent unhealthy lifestyle factor among the participants was low physical activity.

Life's Essential 8 and the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The benefits of achieving optimal cardiovascular health (CVH) through Life's Simple 7 (LS7) are well-documented across diverse populations. In this study, we assess the updated metrics, Life's Essential 8 (LE8), and their association with long-term cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes and mortality. We conducted a comprehensive systematic review, searching PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect from January 2022 until June 2024, focusing on studies that specifically assessed the impact of LE8 on CVH. The statistical analysis used RevMan 5.4 and applied a random effects model to synthesize hazard ratios (HRs) for primary and secondary outcomes. This study is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024558493). Our final analysis comprised 34 observational studies, encompassing 1,786,664 participants aged 18-80, with an average follow-up of approximately 11.6 years. Pooled analysis revealed a statistically significant decrease in the risk of CVD among individuals with higher LE8 scores compared to those with lower scores, with an HR of 0.47 (95% CI: 0.39 to 0.56, p < 0.00001). Higher LE8 scores were also associated with significant reductions in both all-cause mortality (HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.43 to 0.69, p < 0.00001) and CVD-related mortality (HR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.52, p < 0.00001. Moreover, individuals with high LE8 scores have a 56% lower risk of coronary heart disease and a 48% lower risk of stroke. LE8 has a strong inverse association with CVD risk and mortality, with higher LE8 scores corresponding to significantly lower risk levels.

Expanding Child Health Screenings Through School-Community Partnerships.

Child health screenings are a critical, but often overlooked, aspect of children's medical care. School-community partnerships to conduct screenings and ensure that diagnostic follow-up and treatment occur can help achieve optimal child health outcomes. Such partnerships also serve to mitigate the impact of social determinants of health on children's well-being, address health disparities, and promote health equity. This article reviews four essential childhood health screenings-vision, hearing, dental, and mental health-and discusses how schools and community partners can collaborate to offer these screenings.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Leuconostoc mesenteroides lysates in wound healing and immune modulation on keratinocyte cells.

The skin, being the body's largest organ, primarily functions as a formidable defense mechanism against potential microbial infections. The skin's microbiota, consisting of a complex assembly of microorganisms, exerts a pivotal influence on skin homeostasis by modulating keratinocytes and their cytokine secretion, thereby playing an integral role in promoting optimal cutaneous health. Leuconostoc mesenteroides finds extensive application in the production of fermented foods and bacteriocins. Empirical studies validate the effectiveness of L. mesenteroides treatments in enhancing immune function and demonstrating notable antioxidant characteristics. This study investigates the potential of L. mesenteroides in improving skin health and wound healing. It also aims to comprehend their impact on wound healing markers, cytokine production, and cell cycle regulation compared to ferulic acid, known for its wound healing effects. Our findings indicate that L. mesenteroides lysate possesses antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, along with the ability to mitigate their toxic effects in a pathogen-simulating model employing HaCaT keratinocyte cells. Additionally, the lysate demonstrated noteworthy wound closure after a 24-hour treatment, along with a significant reduction in interleukin-6 levels and oxidative stress index. Modulation of the cell cycle is evident by decreasing G0/G1 phases and increasing S and G2/M phases and enhanced expression of wound healing marker genes and proteins CDH1. In conclusion, L. mesenteroides lysate exhibits immune-modulating and antibacterial properties, offering potential alternatives to conventional treatments for various skin conditions. These findings contribute to the exploration of innovative approaches to enhancing human life through skin health and wound healing.

Dietary Intakes of Copper and Selenium in Association with Bone Mineral Density.

The important trace elements, copper and selenium, have diverse effects on human health. As well as other important roles in living tissues, these trace elements are toxic at high levels but are key constituents of various enzymes and proteins essential for maintaining physiological health. However, links between dietary intakes of these elements, particularly copper, and bone mineral density (BMD) in humans remain uncertain. This study aimed to investigate whether dietary intakes of copper and selenium are associated with BMD in women. Dietary intakes of copper and selenium were assessed for 575 women in the Geelong Osteoporosis Study, using a detailed semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire in conjunction with nutrition composition databases. Participants taking oral multivitamin preparations were excluded from analyses; 522 participants (ages 20-88 y) met the eligibility criteria. BMD at multiple skeletal sites was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (Lunar DPX-L). Separate multivariable regression models were developed to identify associations between copper and selenium intakes and BMD, after adjustments for age, anthropometry, other dietary factors, medication use, and lifestyle factors. Median (interquartile range) daily intake for copper was 1.5 mg (1.2-1.9) and for selenium, 72 μg (57-90). Low intakes (lowest tertile versus pooled upper tertiles) of copper and selenium were consistently associated with lower BMD at multiple skeletal sites. Fully adjusted models identified small but statistically significant differences in BMD, ranging from 1.8% to 4.0% for low copper intakes and 1.4% to 4.0% for low selenium intakes. Low dietary intakes of copper and selenium were both independently associated with lower BMD, at least in this sample of women. The results contribute to the evidence base for informing dietary recommendations for these trace elements with respect to their contributions to optimal bone health.

Perceptions of Antenatal Care among Ghanaian Mothers

In Ghana, some pregnant women may not seek antenatal care due to the unavailability of such services in their communities, although preventive service can help reduce maternal mortality with high-quality care. This study aimed to understand the antenatal care opinions of Ghanaian mothers who sought antenatal care, the barriers they faced, and their suggestions for improvement in antenatal care in Ghana. This study’s data were collected in the Central and Ashanti regions in Ghana from June 2023 to January 2024. Four hundred and fifty mothers in Ghana who indicated that they had given birth within the last 10 years of the data collection period took part in the study. Our findings revealed that 93.6% of Ghanaian mothers perceived their antenatal care to be of good quality due to proper examinations, friendly provider–patient interactions, reassurance, fair treatment, and proper education, whereas 6.5% of Ghanaian mothers perceived their care to be of poor quality due to long wait times, impersonal interactions, inadequate facility resources, and barriers to communication. For Ghanaian mothers to receive better outcomes for themselves and their children, it is worth improving healthcare facilities, healthcare provider preparedness, local transportation, and addressing financial constraints to go from suboptimal to optimal health services.