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Introduction: Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are essential to minimizing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and safeguarding the well-being of patients and healthcare workers. Given the significance of IPC in healthcare settings, especially highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, this systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of various IPC strategies, including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE), isolation protocols, and patient education. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to a rigorous methodology, including a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Studies focusing on the impact of IPC measures on HAIs, AMR, and patient and healthcare worker safety in various healthcare settings were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed by two independent reviewers, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Statistical analysis, including heterogeneity assessment using I², was conducted using STATA V.14.0, applying fixed-effect or random-effect models as appropriate. Results: A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria, spanning diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and resource-limited environments. The findings indicate that IPC measures significantly reduce HAIs and improve compliance among healthcare workers. Hand hygiene interventions and PPE use were especially effective in controlling infection transmission, though PPE use was sometimes associated with adverse effects on healthcare workers. Isolation measures, while effective, showed psychological impacts on patients, underscoring the need for supportive interventions. Economic evaluations revealed cost savings through IPC implementation, particularly in long-term care facilities, emphasizing the feasibility of IPC measures even in resource-limited settings. Conclusion: This review demonstrates that IPC measures are effective in reducing infection transmission, though challenges such as compliance, psychological impact, and ethical considerations must be addressed. Tailored strategies that account for specific healthcare settings and include patient education, psychosocial support, and ongoing staff training are recommended to optimize IPC outcomes. Further research should address limitations related to methodological diversity and potential publication bias to enhance the understanding of IPC effectiveness across diverse healthcare environments.

Abstract: Cockroaches serve as mechanical vectors for medically important pathogens, and their presence in hospitals is a common occurrence. Describe the pathogens and their resistance mechanisms carried by cockroaches collected in hospitals in different parts of the world during the period 2000-2023. This will be achieved through a systematic review of the indexed literature. The studies were identified through a search of the Google Scholar search engine and in electronic databases related to health: LILACS, Scielo Regional, and PubMed. The search strategy was conducted in accordance with the principles for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA). The review encompassed 22 studies conducted during the specified period. Blattella germanica and Periplaneta americana are referenced in 15 and 13 of the analyzed studies, respectively. A variety of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, helminths, and rotavirus, were isolated and identified from the external and internal body parts of cockroaches. Bacteria represent the most frequently identified group. The species that appear most frequently in the selected articles are Escherichia coli (11 articles), Staphylococcus aureus (9 articles), Klebsiella pneumoniae (7 articles), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (6 articles). E. coli and S. aureus bacteria were found to be resistant to antibiotics in 19% and 12% of articles, respectively. Conventional techniques, including seeding in culture media, Gram staining (GS), conventional biochemical tests (CBT), direct parasitological methods, and disc diffusion, have historically been the primary methods for identifying microorganisms and determining antibiotic susceptibility profiles in bacteria. However, there is a paucity of studies that use molecular tech-niques for bacterial identification and resistance mechanism detection. The identification of pathogens carried by cockroaches collected in hospitals suggests a potential risk of these insects in the transmission of healthcare-associated infections.

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BACKGROUND: Genetic and genomic literacy is pivotal in empowering cancer patients and citizens to navigate the complexities of omics sciences, resolve misconceptions surrounding clinical research and genetic/genomic testing, and make informed decisions about their health. In a fast-evolving scenario where routine testing has become widespread in healthcare, this scoping review aimed to identify current literacy and knowledge gaps among cancer patients and citizens on matters related to genetics and genomics. METHODS: Adhering to the PRISMA framework, the review included 43 studies published between January 2018 and June 2024, which evaluated the understanding of genetics and genomics among cancer patients, caregivers, and citizens. RESULTS: Although the selected studies had significant heterogeneity in populations and evaluation tools, our findings indicate inadequate literacy levels, with citizens displaying lower proficiency than cancer patients and caregivers. The review highlighted consistent knowledge gaps in understanding the genetic and genomic underpinnings of diseases, encompassing misconceptions about mutation types and inheritance patterns, limited awareness of available genetic testing options, and difficulties in interpreting test results. Ethical and privacy concerns and the psychological impact of genetic testing were also common, highlighting the imperative need for effective communication between healthcare providers and patients. CONCLUSIONS: Given the dynamic nature of genomic science, the review underscores the need for continuously evolving educational programs tailored to diverse populations. Our findings could guide the development of educational resources addressed explicitly to cancer patients, caregivers, and the lay public.

Abstract: Background: Chronic diseases are major causes of morbidity, disability, and death worldwide. In many cases, they are potentially preventable and treatable. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of morbidity and blindness, and its early recognition can help reduce the adverse outcomes of the disease. Health illiteracy among these patients and the absence of self-management of these dis-eases are barriers to effective management worldwide. Therefore, the present study aimed to calculate the level of health literacy and activity level of patients’ activation in self-management, and to explore the link between them among patients with glaucoma in outpatient clinics. Material and methods: Convenience sampling of patients with glaucoma attending the outpatient ophthalmology clinics of a university hospital in Heraklion-Greece was performed. Convenience sampling was used to recruit a total of 312 participants. Data were collected between November 2023 and May 2024. The Patient Activation Measure-13 (PAM-13) questionnaire, in its Greek ver-sion, was used to evaluate patients’ activation level in self-management, whereas the Greek ver-sion of the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire 16 (HLS-EU-16) was used to assess health literacy. Results: Participants were classified as level 1(disengaged & overwhelmed) level in self-management (= 40.7, SD: ±29.9) and a sufficient health literacy level (= 10.7, SD ±3.7). However, there was no statistically significant relationship between health literacy levels and patient activation in self-management (p=0.602). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that patients with glaucoma have low to moderate levels of health literacy and self-management activation, further there is no significant association between these two factors. Multifaceted interventions could be essential for enhancing patients’ activation. Further research involving larger sample sizes, multi-center studies, and interventional design is needed.

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine child immunization efforts, threatening to reverse progress in controlling vaccine-preventable diseases. We analyzed the impact of COVID-19 on DTP3 vaccination in Europe by comparing trends before and after the pandemic using time series data from 2000 to 2023. Employing Joinpoint regression, chi-square tests, and segmented regression analysis, we assessed DTP3 vaccination trends and coverage changes. The findings revealed significant regional disparities across Europe. Statistical models indicated reductions in DTP3 coverage in countries like Ireland, Sweden, and Switzerland, whereas Ukraine and San Marino showed improvements. These variations indicate the need for targeted public health strategies to address vaccine hesitancy, logistical barriers, and systemic inequities.

Abstract: Lung and bronchus cancer, collectively called lung cancer, remains one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide, with its incidence and mortality rates continuing to pose significant public health challenges. Numerous studies have explored various risk factors for lung cancer, including smoking, environmental pollutants, genetic predispositions, and occupational hazards. However, emerging research suggests that elevation above sea level may also influence lung and bronchus cancer prevalence and outcomes. We analyzed altitude data for 2,662 contiguous U.S. counties to determine if there is a significant relationship between lung cancer and elevation. Moreover, we employed hierarchical multiple regression and complex sample general linear model (CSGLM) to enhance understanding of the factors influencing lung and bronchus cancer, with a particular focus on elevation. Using the Local Moran’s I cluster analysis, we identified statistically significant hot spots and cold spots for the mortality rate related to lung cancer. In the hierarchical regression model, a significant correlation between lung cancer and elevation remained evident. This suggests that the risk of mortality from lung and bronchus cancer increases with decreasing elevation (R2 = 0.601). Furthermore, within the CSGLM framework, an R2 value of 0.763 highlighted a strong link between lung cancer mortality and elevation. This relationship remained significant even after accounting complex sample designs and applying weight adjustments. This geographic correlation has not been documented in previous studies. Further research is necessary to elucidate the precise mechanisms through which elevation influences lung cancer biology.

Abstract: Pediatric fracture overgrowth is an unpredictable complication of long bone fractures in children, leading to excessive growth of the injured limb and resulting in limb length discrepancies (LLDs) and angular deformities that impact mobility and quality of life. Traditional methods struggle to predict at-risk children, hindering early detection and management. Artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning and deep learning, offers advanced data analysis capabilities to enhance predictive accuracy and personalize treatment strategies. This comprehensive review explores the current understanding of pediatric fracture overgrowth, examines AI applications in medicine and orthopedics, evaluates potential AI applications specific to fracture overgrowth, and discusses ethical considerations and patient-centric approaches. We highlight how AI can improve diagnostic precision, facilitate early intervention, and optimize clinical outcomes. Though direct studies on AI in fracture overgrowth are limited, evidence from related areas underscores its potential. Embracing AI could revolutionize pediatric fracture management, leading to earlier detection, targeted interventions, and better outcomes for affected children.

Abstract: Background: Wars and political volatility in Iraq have decimated healthcare systems for decades. Iraq’s healthcare demands cannot be delivered without quality pharmaceutical systems that regulate, supply, and promote the appropriate use of medicinal products. Healthcare services and pharmaceutical systems are interdependent. Without accurate reporting about Iraq’s pharmaceutical processes, systems and challenges, meaningful healthcare reform consistent with national goals for social stability will not be achievable. Aims: This article evaluates the pharmaceutical system in place for delivery and use of medical products to ensure patient protection and the optimisation of health outcomes in Iraq. Current challenges are outlined. Potential solutions and recommendations are described. Methodology: A narrative review collected peer-reviewed articles, publications from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google within the last 25 years. The articles were analysed in the context of Iraq’s pharmaceutical context. Figures were synthesised and a diagram was used with the data to guide recommendations. Results:The administrative and technical units were elucidated. Streamlining of regulatory processes was highlighted as an area lacking funding. Deficiencies in oversight of the private sector and the need for empowerment of the domestic pharmaceutical industry were significant findings. Improvements in educational curricula and training of pharmaceutical professionals are required. Modernisation of health information and research systems were considered necessary. Success in the development of a functional pharmaceutical system was strongly associated with both reform of the healthcare system and development of national economic interests to support the State’s legitimacy.

Abstract: In the global context of mental health, a concerning reality persists stigma and discrimination towards individuals with chronic mental disorders pose significant challenges affecting their quality of life and social integration. This study focuses on schizophrenia, one of the most stigmatized disorders, specifically exploring the phenomenon of insight and its interaction with internalized stigma. Previous findings are replicated and extended, involving a sample of 83 men diagnosed with psychotic spectrum disorders. K-means cluster analysis and ANOVA were used to identify subgroups based on levels of insight and stigma. This revealed significant differences between subgroups in psychosocial variables such as depression, quality of life, and global patient functioning. The results confirm an "insight paradox," where greater insight may be associated with poorer psychosocial outcomes in the presence of significant internalized stigma. These findings underscore the need for clinical interventions aimed at reducing stigma and enhancing the psychosocial well-being of individuals with psychotic spectrum disorders.

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Background and objective. Hip muscles lengthening is commonly associated with the normal function of the lumbar spine and lower extremities. Some evidence correlates hamstrings and iliopsoas tightness with low back pain (LBP). Undergraduates are more prone to LBP as they are involved in prolonged sitting and mal-posture. This study aims to assess the impact of hip muscles lengthening on LBP. Methods: A descriptive study of 70 students who were recruited from Zefat Academic College. Measurement of hamstrings and iliopsoas muscles lengthening as well as a constructive questionnaire were used. Results: The majority of participants (80% for the Hamstrings and 96% for the Iliopsoas) manifested normal muscle lengthening. Muscle flexibility was significantly higher among females. The logistic regression analyses revealed that hamstrings lengthening (right), and stress-related study, are significantly associated with LBP. Conclusions: The current study indicates that muscle length is female-dependent and right-left muscle length is symmetrical. Increased hamstrings length could be related to LBP.