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ElKhalil R, AlMekkawi M, O'Connor M, Sherif M, Masuadi E, Ahmed LA, Al-Rifai RH, Belfakir M, Bayoumi R, Elbarazi I. Measurement properties of the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) validation studies: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081394. [PMID: 38569702 PMCID: PMC10989124 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mental Health Literacy (MHL) is important for improving mental health and reducing inequities in treatment. The Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) is a valid and reliable assessment tool for MHL. This systematic review will examine and compare the measurement properties of the MHLS in different languages, enabling academics, clinicians and policymakers to make informed judgements regarding its use in assessments. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The review will adhere to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology for systematic reviews of patient-reported outcome measures and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Manual for Evidence Synthesis and will be presented following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis 2020 checklist. The review will be conducted in four stages, including an initial search confined to PubMed, a search of electronic scientific databases PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, MEDLINE, Embase (Elsevier), PubMed (NLM) and ERIC, an examination of the reference lists of all papers to locate relevant publications and finally contacting the MHLS original author to identify validation studies that the searches will not retrieve. These phases will assist us in locating studies that evaluate the measurement properties of MHLS across various populations, demographics and contexts. The search will focus on articles published in English between May 2015 and December 2023. The methodological quality of the studies will be evaluated using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist, and a comprehensive qualitative and quantitative data synthesis will be performed. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required. The publication will be in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42023430924.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouwida ElKhalil
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Matt O'Connor
- ConnectEd Counselling and Consultancy, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Moustafa Sherif
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Emad Masuadi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Luai A Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Messaouda Belfakir
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Rasha Bayoumi
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham Dubai, Dubai, UAE
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO.Box:15551, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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Al-Ketbi A, Paulo MS, Östlundh L, Elbarazi I, Abu-Hamada B, Elkonaisi I, Al-Rifai RH, Al Aleeli S, Grivna M. School bullying prevention and intervention strategies in the United Arab Emirates: a scoping review. Inj Prev 2024:ip-2023-045039. [PMID: 38514170 DOI: 10.1136/ip-2023-045039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Schools in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) witnessed an increase of 7% in bullying prevalence since 2005. This review aimed to map antibullying interventions in the UAE. METHODS A systematic search was performed in five electronic databases (EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and Eric) using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Review. Studies addressing antibullying interventions and grey literature in the UAE from 2010 to 2021 were included. Interventions were mapped using distribution across key sectors, public health practice levels, and organisation types. RESULTS Of the 2122 identified papers, only 2 were included. Both articles were published in 2019 and used qualitative methods. From the search of governmental and non-governmental websites, 22 multilevel interventions were included and presented on the three levels of public health practice across the different sectors and target stakeholders. Eight interventions were at the federal level, and six were by private stakeholders. The government funded 59% of all interventions. Four interventions addressed cyberbullying, and three used multisectoral collaboration. CONCLUSIONS Although the UAE is building capacity for bullying prevention, we found limited knowledge of antibullying prevention efforts. Further studies are needed to assess current interventions, strategies and policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfan Al-Ketbi
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Marilia Silva Paulo
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Comprehensive Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Bayan Abu-Hamada
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Ismail Elkonaisi
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Sara Al Aleeli
- College of Education, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Michal Grivna
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Charles University, Second Faculty of Medicine, Praha, Czech Republic
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Menon P, El-Sadig M, Albastaki MF, Alzaabi H, Alhammadi S, Almehrzi M, Aljanaahi H, Al-Rifai RH, Masuadi EM, Grivna M. Collecting behavioral evidence from a highly mobile and seasonal population: A protocol for a survey on quad bike injuries. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298059. [PMID: 38437203 PMCID: PMC10911601 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quad bikes are popular recreational, four-wheeled bikes in the Middle East. Injury prevention programs targeting quad bike crashes in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) need evidence about the risk factors and behaviours associated with these crashes in the target population. This is a protocol for a study aiming to investigate quad bike rider behaviours and to assess the risk factors associated with related injuries in the UAE. METHODS This is a cross-sectional observational study aiming to describe a seasonal sport in a desert environment. With an estimated sample size of 451, the survey will follow a three-stage, location-based sampling strategy using the line-transect method. A sampling frame of desert locations with high injury incidences was developed, using Dubai ambulance injury records. Further expansion of the sampling frame was participatory, involving police, enthusiasts, emergency responders and gas station employees. The data collection will be limited to the winter months in fifteen high-injury desert locations across three major Emirates in the UAE. Trained researchers will observe the riders directly in the desert to note their riding habits, followed by a researcher-administered interview on riding and injury history. The interviews will be administered in Arabic and English using Qualtrics software on handheld tablets with offline and online entry mode. In addition, paper-based entry with the same format will be used as a contingency in busy quad bike locations. CONCLUSION The objective of this study protocol is to develop a comprehensive survey that will furnish substantial evidence for the formulation of effective injury prevention strategies. To enhance the credibility of the recorded riding behaviors, field observations will be employed. The uniqueness of this study lies in its innovative sampling strategy, custom-tailored to accommodate the highly mobile and transient population of desert bikers in the UAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetha Menon
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed El-Sadig
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marwan F. Albastaki
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Humaid Alzaabi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saleh Alhammadi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mansour Almehrzi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamed Aljanaahi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Emad M. Masuadi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Michal Grivna
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Mezhal F, Oulhaj A, Abdulle A, AlJunaibi A, Alnaeemi A, Ahmad A, Leinberger-Jabari A, Al Dhaheri AS, Tuzcu EM, AlZaabi E, Al-Maskari F, Alanouti F, Alameri F, Alsafar H, Alblooshi H, Alkaabi J, Wareth LA, Aljaber M, Kazim M, Weitzman M, Al-Houqani M, Ali MH, Oumeziane N, El-Shahawy O, Al-Rifai RH, Scherman S, Shah SM, Loney T, Almahmeed W, Idaghdour Y, Ahmed LA, Ali R. Correction: The interrelationship and accumulation of cardiometabolic risk factors amongst young adults in the United Arab Emirates: The UAE Healthy Future Study. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2024; 16:36. [PMID: 38326866 PMCID: PMC10851549 DOI: 10.1186/s13098-024-01279-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Mezhal
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
| | - Abderrahim Oulhaj
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Sciences and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Abdishakur Abdulle
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Abdulla Alnaeemi
- Department of Cardiology, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Amar Ahmad
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Ayesha S Al Dhaheri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - E Murat Tuzcu
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Eiman AlZaabi
- Department of Pathology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - Fatme Alanouti
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Habiba Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Juma Alkaabi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - Laila Abdel Wareth
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Marina Kazim
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Al‑Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Micheal Weitzman
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Mohammad Al-Houqani
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - Mohammad Hag Ali
- Department of Health Science, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Omar El-Shahawy
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - Scott Scherman
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Syed M Shah
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Youssef Idaghdour
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Luai A Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al‑Ain, UAE
| | - Raghib Ali
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Elbarazi I, Alam Z, Ali N, Loney T, Al-Rifai RH, Al-Maskari F, Ahmed LA. Health literacy among pregnant women in the United Arab Emirates: The Mutaba'ah study. Womens Health (Lond) 2024; 20:17455057231224179. [PMID: 38279806 PMCID: PMC10822065 DOI: 10.1177/17455057231224179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health literacy is the degree to which individuals can obtain, process, understand, and communicate health-related information. Health literacy among pregnant women, in particular, may have a significant impact on maternal and child health. In the United Arab Emirates, no previous studies have been carried out to investigate the health literacy levels of pregnant women. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate antenatal health literacy levels and identify associated factors among pregnant Emirati women in the United Arab Emirates. DESIGN This analysis was based on the baseline cross-sectional data for pregnant women participating in the prospective cohort Mutaba'ah Study, recruited between May 2017 and August 2022. METHODS Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire during their antenatal visits that collected sociodemographic and pregnancy-related information. Adequacy of health literacy was assessed using the BRIEF health literacy screening tool with adequate health literacy defined as a score ⩾ 17. Regression modeling investigated the association between the pregnant women characteristics with having adequate health literacy level (ability to read and comprehend most patient education materials). RESULTS A total of 2694 responses to the BRIEF health literacy screening tool were analyzed. Approximately, three-quarters (71.6%) of respondents showed adequate health literacy, followed by marginal (22.8%), and limited (5.6%) health literacy levels, respectively. Higher education levels (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.74, 95% confidence interval = 1.46-2.08), employment (adjusted odds ratio = 1.35, 95% confidence interval = 1.10-1.65), and adequate social support (adjusted odds ratio = 1.69, 95% confidence interval = 1.26-2.28) were associated with adequate health literacy levels. Participants who expressed worry about birth were less likely to have adequate literacy levels (adjusted odds ratio = 0.70, 95% confidence interval = 0.58-0.85). CONCLUSION Nearly three-quarters of pregnant women have adequate health literacy. Nevertheless, measures including policies to sustain and enhance health literacy levels among all expectant mothers are required, with a specific focus on those having limited health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zufishan Alam
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nasloon Ali
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Bin Sultan Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abdo NM, Aslam I, Irfan S, George JA, Alsuwaidi AR, Ahmed LA, Al-Rifai RH. Seroepidemiology of Treponema pallidum, Mycoplasma hominis, and Ureaplasma urealyticum in fertility treatment-seeking patients in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:163-171. [PMID: 38039859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several genital pathogens affect fertility. The study estimated the seroprevalence of Treponema pallidum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, and Mycoplasma hominis and identify specific factors associated with exposure to at least one of these pathogens in patients seeking fertility treatment in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. METHODS A seroepidemiological survey was conducted in a major fertility clinic in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Serum samples were screened for eight immunoglobulins (IgG, IgM, and IgA) against T. pallidum, U. urealyticum, and M. hominis using enzyme-linked immunoassays. Factors associated with seropositivity to at least one of the pathogens were investigated. RESULTS The study surveyed 308 patients seeking fertility treatment (mean age: 36.1 ± 6.8 years). Most patients were female (88.0%), 24.9% had at least one chronic comorbidity, 19.3% had a previous genital infection, and 68.1% had been diagnosed with infertility for ≥ 6 months. Ig seroprevalence of T. pallidum (IgG: 3.0%, IgM: 3.2%), U. urealyticum (IgG: 2.6%, IgM: 2.0%), and M. hominis (IgG: 33.9%) was 6.4%, 4.6%, and 49.0%, respectively. Nearly one quarter (23.0%) and one decile (9.2%) of the patients exhibited evidence of ongoing infection (IgM seropositivity) or recent infection (IgA seropositivity) with M. hominis, respectively. Overall, 53.0% of the patients were seropositive for at least one of the screened immunoglobulins. Patients with an education level of secondary schooling or below (66.2%) or those who were unemployed (61.1%) had a higher seroprevalence of IgG antibodies compared with patients with college or higher-level education (48.4%) or those who were employed (48.1%) (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Exposure to T. pallidum or U. urealyticum was relatively low, whereas that to M. hominis was common in the surveyed patients. Enhanced awareness and screening programmes for genital pathogens are crucial to prevent and control the transmission of infections and reduce the growing burden of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Motea Abdo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Irfan Aslam
- HealthPlus Fertility Center, HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shazia Irfan
- HealthPlus Fertility Center, HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Junu A George
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed R Alsuwaidi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Alam Z, Mohamed S, Nauman J, Al-Rifai RH, Ahmed LA, Elbarazi I. Response to Letter to the Editor by Amnuay Kleebayoon, Viroj Wiwanitkit titled: Hesitancy toward vaccination against COVID-19. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2270847. [PMID: 37853518 PMCID: PMC10760359 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2270847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zufishan Alam
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Mohamed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Javaid Nauman
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL-PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abdullahi AS, Suliman A, Khan MAB, Khair H, Ghazal-Aswad S, Elbarazi I, Al-Maskari F, Loney T, Al-Rifai RH, Ahmed LA. Temporal trends of hemoglobin among pregnant women: The Mutaba'ah study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295549. [PMID: 38064469 PMCID: PMC10707684 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low hemoglobin (Hb) level is a leading cause of many adverse pregnancy outcomes. Patterns of changes in Hb levels during pregnancy are not well understood. AIM This study estimated Hb levels, described its changing patterns across gestational trimesters, and identified factors associated with these changes among pregnant women. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data from the ongoing maternal and child health cohort study-The Mutaba'ah Study, was used (N = 1,120). KML machine learning algorithm was applied to identify three distinct cluster trajectories of Hb levels between the first and the third trimesters. Descriptive statistics were used to profile the study participants. Multinomial multivariable logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with change patterns in Hb levels. RESULTS The three identified clusters-A, B and C-had, respectively, median Hb levels (g/L) of 123, 118, and 104 in the first trimester and 119, 100, and 108 in the third trimester. Cluster 'A' maintained average normal Hb levels in both trimesters. Cluster 'B', on average, experienced a decrease in Hb levels below the normal range during the third trimester. Cluster 'C' showed increased Hb levels in the third trimester but remained, on average, below the normal range in both trimesters. Pregnant women with higher gravida, diabetes mellitus (type 1 or 2), nulliparity or lower level of education were more likely to be in cluster 'B' than the normal cluster 'A'. Pregnant women who reported using iron supplements before pregnancy or those with low levels of education. were more likely to be in cluster 'C' than the normal cluster 'A'. CONCLUSION The majority of pregnant women experienced low Hb levels during pregnancy. Changes in Hb levels during pregnancy were associated with parity, gravida, use of iron before pregnancy, and the presence of diabetes mellitus (type 1 or 2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aminu S. Abdullahi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abubaker Suliman
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Moien AB Khan
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Howaida Khair
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saad Ghazal-Aswad
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatima Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Alshemeili A, Alhammadi A, Alhammadi A, Al Ali M, Alameeri ES, Abdullahi AS, Abu-Hamada B, Sheek-Hussein MM, Al-Rifai RH, Elbarazi I. Sexually transmitted diseases knowledge assessment and associated factors among university students in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1284288. [PMID: 38074733 PMCID: PMC10702243 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1284288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDIs) remain a serious public health menace with over 350 million cases each year. Poor knowledge of STDIs has been identified as one of the bottlenecks in their control and prevention. Hence, assessment of knowledge, both general and domain-specific, is key to the prevention and control of these diseases. This study assessed the knowledge of STDIs and identified factors associated with STDI knowledge among university students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods This is a cross-sectional study among 778 UAE University students across all colleges. An online data collection tool was used to collect data regarding the participants' demographics and their level of knowledge of STDIs across different domains including general STDI pathogens knowledge (8 items), signs and symptoms (9 items), mode of transmission (5 items), and prevention (5 items). Knowledge was presented both as absolute and percentage scores. Differences in STDI knowledge were statistically assessed using Mann-Whitney U and Chi-squared tests. Logistic regression models were further used to identify factors associated with STDI knowledge. Results A total of 778 students participated in the study with a median age of 21 years (IQR = 19, 23). The overall median STDI knowledge score of the participants was 7 (out of 27), with some differences within STDI domains-signs & symptoms (1 out of 9), modes of transmission (2 out of 5), general STDI pathogens (2 out of 8), and prevention (1 out of 5). Higher STDI knowledge was significantly associated with being non-Emirati (OR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.24-2.75), being married (OR = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.50-5.56), residing in emirates other than Abu Dhabi (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.16-2.25), and being a student of health sciences (OR = 4.45, 95% CI = 3.07-6.45). Conclusion In general, STDI knowledge was low among the students. Having good knowledge of STDIs is essential for their prevention and control. Therefore, there is a need for informed interventions to address the knowledge gap among students, youths, and the general population at large.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abdo NM, Aslam I, Irfan S, George JA, Alsuwaidi AR, Ahmed LA, Al-Rifai RH. Chlamydia trachomatis Seroepidemiology and Associated Factors in Fertility Treatment-Seeking Patients in the Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:583-590. [PMID: 37277894 PMCID: PMC10430672 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was designed to investigate the seroepidemiology of and identify factors associated with exposure to Chlamydia trachomatis ( C. trachomatis ) in fertility treatment-seeking patients in Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates. METHODS A total of 308 fertility treatment-seeking patients were surveyed. Seroprevalence of past (IgG positive), current/acute (IgM positive), and active infection (IgA positive) with C. trachomatis was quantified. Factors associated with exposure to C. trachomatis were identified. RESULTS Overall, 19.0%, 5.2%, and 1.6% found to have past, acute/recent, and ongoing active infection with C. trachomatis , respectively. Overall, 22.0% of the patients were seropositive to any of the 3 to C. trachomatis antibodies. Male compared with female patients (45.7% vs. 18.9%, P < 0.001) and current/ex-smokers compared with nonsmokers (44.4% vs. 17.8%) had higher seropositivity. Patients with a history of pregnancy loss had higher seropositivity compared with other patients (27.0% vs. 16.8%), particularly recurrent pregnancy losses (33.3%). Current smoking (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.32-11.04) and history of pregnancy loss (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.5-5.8) were significantly associated with higher odds of exposure to C. trachomatis . CONCLUSIONS The observed high seroprevalence of C. trachomatis , particularly in patients with a history of pregnancy loss, possibly indicates the contribution of C. trachomatis to the growing burden of infertility in the United Arab Emirates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Motea Abdo
- From the Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain
| | - Irfan Aslam
- HealthPlus Fertility and Genetics Center, Abu Dhabi
| | - Shazia Irfan
- HealthPlus Fertility and Genetics Center, Abu Dhabi
| | - Junu A. George
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences
| | | | - Luai A. Ahmed
- From the Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- From the Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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11
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AbdelWareth L, Alhousani F, Abuyadek R, Donnelly J, Leinberger-Jabari A, Atef S, Al-Rifai RH. Natural infection versus hybrid (natural and vaccination) humoral immune response to SARS-CoV-2: a comparative paired analysis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1230974. [PMID: 37720219 PMCID: PMC10502301 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1230974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives There is substantial immunological evidence that vaccination following natural infection increases protection. We compare the humoral immune response developed in initially seropositive individuals (naturally infected) to humoral hybrid immune response (developed after infection and vaccination) in the same population group after one year. Methods The study included 197 male individuals who were naturally infected with SARS-CoV-2 and then vaccinated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Trimeric spike, nucleocapsid, and ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies for SARS-CoV-2 were measured. Nasal swabs were collected for SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing. Information on vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and PCR verified infection was retrieved from official databases (Abu Dhabi Health Data Services- SP LLC. ("Malaffi"), including number of vaccine doses received, date of vaccination, and type of the received vaccine. Results All the study population were tested PCR-Negative at the time of sample collection. Our results showed that there was a significant rise in the mean (SD) and median (IQR) titers of trimeric spike, nucleocapsid and ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies in the post-vaccination stage. The mean (± SD) and median (IQR) concentration of the anti-S antibody rose by 3.3-fold (+230% ± 197% SD) and 2.8-fold (+185%, 220-390%, p<0.001), respectively. There was an observed positive dose-response relationship between number of the received vaccine doses and having higher proportion of study participants with higher than median concentration in the difference between the measured anti-S and ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies in the post-vaccination compared to pre-vaccination. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that COVID-19 vaccination post natural infection elicits a robust immunological response with an impressive rise of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, especially the ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila AbdelWareth
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute (PLMI), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farida Alhousani
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rowan Abuyadek
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - James Donnelly
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Shereen Atef
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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12
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Alam Z, Mohamed S, Nauman J, Al-Rifai RH, Ahmed LA, Elbarazi I. Hesitancy toward vaccination against COVID-19: A scoping review of prevalence and associated factors in the Arab world. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2245720. [PMID: 37594508 PMCID: PMC10443971 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2245720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite widespread availability of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 virus, the cause of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), its uptake in many Arab countries is relatively low. This literature review aimed to scope evidence on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (VH) in the Arab world. A total of 134 articles reporting prevalence of COVID-19 VH and associated factors, conducted in any of the 22 Arab League countries, were reviewed. COVID-19 VH prevalence ranged from 5.4% to 83.0%. Female gender, young age, low education level and lack of previous influenza vaccine uptake were most commonly reported to be associated with COVID-19 VH. The most-reported personal concerns contributing toward VH were related to the rapid development, safety and side effects of vaccine, as well as an overall lack of trust in government policies toward pandemic control and widespread conspiracy theories. Tailored interventions to enable the distribution of trusted information and enhance public acceptance of immunization are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zufishan Alam
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Salma Mohamed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Javaid Nauman
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL-PIVOT) Network, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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13
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Sherif M, Makame KR, Östlundh L, Paulo MS, Nemmar A, Ali BR, Al-Rifai RH, Nagy K, Ádám B. Genotoxicity of Occupational Pesticide Exposures among Agricultural Workers in Arab Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Toxics 2023; 11:663. [PMID: 37624167 PMCID: PMC10458041 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to pesticides in Arab countries is a significant public health concern due to extensive agricultural activity and pesticide use. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the genotoxic effects of agricultural pesticide exposure in the region, identify research gaps, and assess methodological limitations. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search yielded five relevant studies conducted in Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. Various genotoxicity assays were employed, revealing a higher level of DNA damage in exposed compared to non-exposed individuals. Farmers exposed to pesticides exhibited a significantly higher occurrence of chromosomal translocation (t(14;18)), micronuclei, and chromosomal aberrations. However, only two studies assessed cytotoxicity indirectly. The studies predominantly focused on male participants, with variations in sample size and pesticide types. The lack of detailed exposure data necessitates cautious interpretation. This review underscores the need for further research on the genotoxicity of occupational pesticide exposure in the Middle East. Future studies should adopt robust study designs, collect biological and environmental samples, conduct repeated sampling, analyze seasonal variations, and encompass diverse study sites associated with specific crop groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa Sherif
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.S.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Khadija Ramadhan Makame
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Linda Östlundh
- University Library, Örebro University, SE-702 81 Örebro, Sweden;
| | - Marilia Silva Paulo
- IPH, CHRC, NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NMS, FCM, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Abderrahim Nemmar
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Bassam R. Ali
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.S.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Károly Nagy
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Balázs Ádám
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.S.); (R.H.A.-R.)
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AlNababteh AH, Tzivinikos C, Al-Shamsi S, Govender RD, Al-Rifai RH. Celiac disease in paediatric patients in the United Arab Emirates: a single-center descriptive study. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1197612. [PMID: 37534197 PMCID: PMC10391541 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1197612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder that is provoked by the consumption of gluten in genetically vulnerable individuals. CD affects individuals worldwide with an estimated prevalence of 1% and can manifest at any age. Growth retardation and anemia are common presentations in children with CD. The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of CD in multiple "at risk groups" and to characterize children with CD, presented to a tertiary hospital in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods The study reviewed medical charts of all patients <18 years who had received serologic testing for CD. The study was conducted at Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital in Dubai, UAE, from January 2018 to July 2021. Extracted information from medical records included sociodemographics, laboratory findings, clinical presentation, and any associated co-morbidities. The European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) criteria were used to identify patients with CD. Results During the study period, 851 paediatric patients underwent serological screening for CD, out of which, 23 (2.7%) were confirmed with CD. Of the 23 patients diagnosed with CD, 43.5% had no gastrointestinal symptoms. Diabetes type 1 (30.4%) followed by iron deficiency anaemia (30%) and Hashimoto thyroiditis (9%) were the most commonly associated comorbidities. The prevalence of CD among paediatric patients with autoimmune thyroiditis (12.5%) was 1.92-times higher than that among paediatric patients with diabetes type 1 (6.5%). Conclusion The results of this study show that almost three out of every 100 paediatric patients who were screened for CD were confirmed to have the condition. These findings highlight the importance of screening children who are at risk or present symptoms suggestive of CD, to ensure early diagnosis and appropriate management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma H. AlNababteh
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Christos Tzivinikos
- Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saif Al-Shamsi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Romona Devi Govender
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Atef S, Al Hosani F, AbdelWareth L, Al-Rifai RH, Abuyadek R, Jabari A, Ali R, Altrabulsi B, Dunachie S, Alatoom A, Donnelly JG. Susceptibility to reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 virus relative to existing antibody concentrations and T cell response. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 131:100-110. [PMID: 36702370 PMCID: PMC9870609 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated the reinfection rate of vaccinated or convalescent immunized SARS-CoV-2 in 952 expatriate workers with SARS-CoV-2 serological antibody (Ab) patterns and surrogate T cell memory at recruitment and follow-up. METHODS Trimeric spike, nucleocapsid, and neutralizing Abs were measured, along with a T cell stimulation assay, targeting SARS-CoV-2 memory in clusters of differentiation (CD) 4+ and CD8+ T cells. The subjects were then followed up for reinfection for up to 6 months. RESULTS The seroprevalence positivity at enrollment was greater than 99%. The T cell reactivity in this population was 38.2%. Of the 149 (15.9%) participants that were reinfected during the follow-up period (74.3%) had nonreactive T cells at enrollment. Those who had greater than 100 binding Ab units/ml increase from the median concentration of antispike immunoglobulin G Abs had a 6% reduction in the risk of infection. Those who were below the median concentration had a 78% greater risk of infection. CONCLUSION Significant immune protection from reinfection was observed in those who retained T cell activation memory. Additional protection was observed when the antispike was greater than the median value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shereen Atef
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | | | - Laila AbdelWareth
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rowan Abuyadek
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Andrea Jabari
- New-York University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raghib Ali
- New-York University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Basel Altrabulsi
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Adnan Alatoom
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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16
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Habib I, Al-Rifai RH, Mohamed MYI, Ghazawi A, Abdalla A, Lakshmi G, Agamy N, Khan M. Contamination Levels and Phenotypic and Genomic Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli Isolated from Fresh Salad Vegetables in the United Arab Emirates. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:294. [PMID: 37368712 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8060294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Contaminated fresh produce has been identified as a vehicle for human foodborne illness. The present study investigated the counts, antimicrobial resistance profile, and genome-based characterization of Escherichia coli in 11 different types of fresh salad vegetable products (n = 400) sampled from retailers in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. E. coli was detected in 30% of the tested fresh salad vegetable items, with 26.5% of the samples having an unsatisfactory level (≥100 CFU/g) of E. coli, notably arugula and spinach. The study also assessed the effect of the variability in sample conditions on E. coli counts and found, based on negative binominal regression analysis, that samples from local produce had a significantly higher (p-value < 0.001) E. coli count than imported samples. The analysis also indicated that fresh salad vegetables from the soil-less farming system (e.g., hydroponic and aeroponic) had significantly (p-value < 0.001) fewer E. coli than those from traditional produce farming. The study also examined the antimicrobial resistance in E. coli (n = 145) recovered from fresh salad vegetables and found that isolates exhibited the highest phenotypic resistance toward ampicillin (20.68%), tetracycline (20%), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (10.35%). A total of 20 (13.79%) of the 145 E. coli isolates exhibited a multidrug-resistant phenotype, all from locally sourced leafy salad vegetables. The study further characterized 18 of the 20 multidrug-resistant E. coli isolates using whole-genome sequencing and found that the isolates had varying numbers of virulence-related genes, ranging from 8 to 25 per isolate. The frequently observed genes likely involved in extra-intestinal infection were CsgA, FimH, iss, and afaA. The β-lactamases gene blaCTX-M-15 was prevalent in 50% (9/18) of the E. coli isolates identified from leafy salad vegetable samples. The study highlights the potential risk of foodborne illness and the likely spread of antimicrobial resistance and resistance genes associated with consuming leafy salad vegetables and emphasizes the importance of proper food safety practices, including proper storage and handling of fresh produce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihab Habib
- Veterinary Public Health Research Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
- High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria P.O. Box 21511, Egypt
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed-Yousif Ibrahim Mohamed
- Veterinary Public Health Research Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
| | - Akela Ghazawi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
| | - Afra Abdalla
- Veterinary Public Health Research Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
| | - Glindya Lakshmi
- Veterinary Public Health Research Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
| | - Neveen Agamy
- High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria P.O. Box 21511, Egypt
| | - Mushtaq Khan
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 1555, United Arab Emirates
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Shatnawei A, AlNababteh AH, Govender RD, Al-Shamsi S, AlJarrah A, Al-Rifai RH. Mode of presentation and performance of serology assays for diagnosing celiac disease: A single-center study in the United Arab Emirates. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1107017. [PMID: 37090770 PMCID: PMC10113562 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1107017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveTo characterize patients with celiac disease (CD), examines the clinical spectrum of CD, and evaluate the performance of serologic tests used for CD screening, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).MethodsMedical charts of patients received at the Digestive Diseases Institute of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi from January 2015 to December 2020 were reviewed. Patients who were screened for four serologic biomarkers (anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA [Anti-tTG-IgA], anti-tissue transglutaminase IgG [Anti-TtG-IgG], anti-deamidated gliadin peptide IgG [Anti-DGP-IgG], and anti-deamidated gliadin peptide IgA [Anti-DGP-IgA]) were included. Histopathology was performed on patients with the seropositive test. Marsh score > 1 considered to confirm CD. Characteristics of the Anti-tTG-IgA seropositive patients were described and that correlated with histopathologically confirmed CD were explored.ResultsOf the 6,239 patients, 1.4, 2.9, 4.7, and 4.9%, were seropositive to Anti-tTG-IgG, Anti-TtG-IgA, Anti-DGP-IgA, and Anti-DGP-IgG, respectively. Overall, 7.7% were seropositive to either of the four biomarkers. Of the biopsy-screened 300 patients, 38.7% (1.9% of the total serologically screened) were confirmed with CD. The mean age of Anti-TtG-IgA seropositive patients was 32.1 ± 10.3 SD years, 72% of them were females, and 93.4% were Emirati. In those patients, overweight (28.7%) and obesity (24.7%) were common while 5.8% of patients were underweight. Anemia prevalence was 46.7%, 21.3% had Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), 7.7% with autoimmune thyroid disease, 5.5% (type 1), and 3.3% (type 2) were diabetic. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in 47.8% of the Anti-TtG IgA seropositive patients. Twelve (10.3%) histopathologically confirmed CD patients were seronegative to Anti-TtG-IgA but seropositive to anti-DGP-IgA and/or Anti-DGP-IgG. Body mass index, GERD, autoimmune thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes, asthma, hemoglobin, and vitamin D concentration, were all correlated with biopsy-confirmed CD (P < 0.05). Compared to the gold-standard biopsy test, Anti-TtG-IgA had the highest sensitivity (89.7%) and specificity (83.7%).ConclusionThree and two of every 100 patients were serologically (anti-tTG-IgA positive) and histopathologically diagnosed with CD, respectively. Although Anti-TtG-IgA is the most sensitive, specific, and commonly used test, one of every ten histopathologically confirmed patients and Anti-tTG-IgA seronegative were seropositive to Anti-DGP. To avoid missing patients with CD, a comprehensive serological investigation covering DGP-IgG/IgA is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asma H. AlNababteh
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Romona Devi Govender
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saif Al-Shamsi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ammar AlJarrah
- Clinical Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Rami H. Al-Rifai,
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Mezhal F, Oulhaj A, Abdulle A, AlJunaibi A, Alnaeemi A, Ahmad A, Leinberger-Jabari A, Al Dhaheri AS, AlZaabi E, Al-Maskari F, Alanouti F, Alameri F, Alsafar H, Alblooshi H, Alkaabi J, Wareth LA, Aljaber M, Kazim M, Weitzman M, Al-Houqani M, Ali MH, Tuzcu EM, Oumeziane N, El-Shahawy O, Al-Rifai RH, Sherman S, Shah SM, Alzaabi T, Loney T, Almahmeed W, Idaghdour Y, Ahmed LA, Ali R. High prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors amongst young adults in the United Arab Emirates: the UAE Healthy Future Study. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2023; 23:137. [PMID: 36922773 PMCID: PMC10015775 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-023-03165-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the world. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it accounts for 40% of mortality. CVD is caused by multiple cardiometabolic risk factors (CRFs) including obesity, dysglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension and central obesity. However, there are limited studies focusing on the CVD risk burden among young Emirati adults. This study investigates the burden of CRFs in a sample of young Emiratis, and estimates the distribution in relation to sociodemographic and behavioral determinants. METHODS Data was used from the baseline data of the UAE Healthy Future Study volunteers. The study participants were aged 18 to 40 years. The study analysis was based on self-reported questionnaires, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements, as well as blood analysis. RESULTS A total of 5167 participants were included in the analysis; 62% were males and the mean age of the sample was 25.7 years. The age-adjusted prevalence was 26.5% for obesity, 11.7% for dysglycemia, 62.7% for dyslipidemia, 22.4% for hypertension and 22.5% for central obesity. The CRFs were distributed differently when compared within social and behavioral groups. For example, obesity, dyslipidemia and central obesity in men were found higher among smokers than non-smokers (p < 0.05). And among women with lower education, all CRFs were reported significantly higher than those with higher education, except for hypertension. Most CRFs were significantly higher among men and women with positive family history of common non-communicable diseases. CONCLUSIONS CRFs are highly prevalent in the young Emirati adults of the UAE Healthy Future Study. The difference in CRF distribution among social and behavioral groups can be taken into account to target group-specific prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Mezhal
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
| | - Abderrahim Oulhaj
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Sciences and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Abdishakur Abdulle
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Abdulla Alnaeemi
- Department of Cardiology, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Amar Ahmad
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Ayesha S Al Dhaheri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Eiman AlZaabi
- Department of Pathology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Fatme Alanouti
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Habiba Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamad Alblooshi
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Abu Dhabi & Al-Ain,, UAE
| | - Juma Alkaabi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Laila Abdel Wareth
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Marina Kazim
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Abu Dhabi & Al-Ain,, UAE
| | - Michael Weitzman
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Mohammad Al-Houqani
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Mohammad Hag Ali
- Department of Health Science, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - E Murat Tuzcu
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Naima Oumeziane
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Abu Dhabi & Al-Ain,, UAE
| | - Omar El-Shahawy
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Scott Sherman
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Syed M Shah
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Thekra Alzaabi
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Youssef Idaghdour
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Luai A Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Raghib Ali
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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19
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Abdo NM, Ahmad H, Loney T, Zarmakoupis PN, Aslam I, Irfan S, Grivna M, Ahmed LA, Al-Rifai RH. Characterization of Fertility Clinic Attendees in the Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20031692. [PMID: 36767058 PMCID: PMC9914043 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the primary and secondary infertility in patients attending fertility clinics and reports factors associated with primary infertility. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two fertility clinics in Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates (UAE) between December 2020 and May 2021. The collected information covered sociodemographic, lifestyle, medical, and fertility-related characteristics. The mean age and age at marriage (±SD) of the 928 patients were 35.7 (±6.7) and 25.2 (±6.3) years, respectively. Of the total, 72.0% were obese and overweight, 26.6% reported a consanguineous marriage, and 12.5% were smokers. Secondary infertility (62.5%) was more frequent than primary infertility (37.5%). Primary infertility was inversely associated with age (aOR, 0.94, 95% CI: 0.91-0.98) and not being overweight (aOR, 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.9) while positively associated with a nationality other than Middle Eastern nationality (aOR, 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.3), married for ≤5 years (aOR, 6.0, 95% CI: 3.9-9.3), in a nonconsanguineous marriage (aOR, 2.4, 95% CI: 1.5-3.9), having a respiratory disease (aOR, 2.3, 95% CI: 1.1-4.6), an increased age at puberty (aOR, 1.2, 95% CI: 1.0-1.3), and self-reported 6-<12 months (aOR, 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2-5.1) and ≥12 months (aOR, 3.4, 95% CI: 1.8-6.4) infertility. Patients with primary infertility were more likely to be diagnosed with infertility of an ovulation, tubal, or uterine origin (aOR, 3.9, 95% CI: 1.9-7.9). Secondary infertility was more common than primary infertility. Several preventable fertility-related risk factors including overweight, smoking, and diabetes were found to be common among the fertility clinic attendees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Motea Abdo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hafiz Ahmad
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah P.O. Box 11172, United Arab Emirates
- Molecular Division, RAK Hospital, Ras al Khaimah P.O. Box 11393, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Irfan Aslam
- HealthPlus Fertility Center, HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shazia Irfan
- HealthPlus Fertility Center, HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Michal Grivna
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, V Úvalu 84, 150 06 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence:
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20
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Abdalateef S, Al Meheiri NM, Nassef M, Shorrab AA, Hashimi OAR, Allam S, Alnaqbi MS, Al-Rifai RH. Experience of the United Arab Emirates in the use of monoclonal antibody drug sotrovimab in high-risk vaccinated and unvaccinated patients with COVID-19: an observational cohort study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066095. [PMID: 36627160 PMCID: PMC9835446 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Monoclonal antibodies can slow COVID-19 progression. This study describes the experience of using sotrovimab in patients with COVID-19 at high risk for disease progression and hospitalisation within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). DESIGN Observational cohort study. SETTING A tertiary hospital in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE. PARTICIPANTS Patients with mild or moderate COVID-19 at high risk for disease progression. INTERVENTIONS Infusion with a single 500 mg dose of the monoclonal antibody drug sotrovimab. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Any adverse effect within 24 hours, disease progression within 5 days, emergency department visit within 10 days, hospital admission within 10 days or mortality within 28 days of infusion. RESULTS 3227 high-risk COVID-19 patients were infused with sotrovimab during the mild (n=3107, 96.3%) or moderate (n=120, 3.7%) disease stages. The incidence of at least one outcome was recorded in 196 (6.1%) of the patients (60.7 per 1000 patients). The most common outcome was disease progression within 5 days of infusion in 129 patients (4.0%), followed by emergency department visits by 90 patients (2.8%) within 10 days. Twenty-nine (0.9%) patients were hospitalised within 10 days of infusion with only two deaths (0.1%). Patients infused with sotrovimab during the moderate disease stage had 11 times greater odds of developing at least one outcome compared with patients infused during the mild stage (adjusted OR, aOR 10.86, 95% CI 7.14 to 16.54). SARS-CoV-2 vaccinated (aOR 12.8, 95% CI 7.3 to 20.5) and unvaccinated (aOR 7.2, 95% CI 3.4 to 15.3) patients infused with sotrovimab during the moderate disease stage had similar odds of at least one outcome compared with patients infused during the mild stage. CONCLUSIONS Among high-risk sotrovimab-infused COVID-19 patients, there were relatively low incidences of disease progression and hospitalisation. Regardless of vaccination history, monoclonal antibody intervention during the early stages of COVID-19 results in better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumaya Abdalateef
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Al Qassimi Hospital, Sharjah, UAE
| | | | - Mohamed Nassef
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Al Qassimi Hospital, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Ahmed A Shorrab
- Anesthesia department, University Hospital Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | | | - Samah Allam
- Department of Medicine, Al Qassimi Hospital, Sharjah, UAE
| | | | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
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21
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Al-Rifai RH, Alhosani F, Abuyadek R, Atef S, Donnelly JG, Leinberger-Jabari A, Ahmed LA, Altrabulsi B, Alatoom A, Alsuwaidi AR, AbdelWareth L. Evaluation of post-vaccination immunoglobulin G antibodies and T-cell immune response after inoculation with different types and doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines: A retrospective cohort study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 9:1092646. [PMID: 36703898 PMCID: PMC9871809 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1092646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The induction and speed of production of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) immune biomarkers may vary by type and number of inoculated vaccine doses. This study aimed to explore variations in SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike (anti-S), anti-nucleocapsid (anti-N), and neutralizing immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, and T-cell response by type and number of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine doses received. Methods In a naturally exposed and SARS-CoV-2-vaccinated population, we quantified the anti-S, anti-N, and neutralizing IgG antibody concentration and assessed T-cell response. Data on socio-demographics, medical history, and history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination were collected. Furthermore, nasal swabs were collected to test for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Confounder-adjusted association between having equal or more than a median concentration of the three IgG antibodies and T-cell response by number and type of the inoculated vaccines was quantified. Results We surveyed 952 male participants with a mean age of 35.5 years ± 8.4 standard deviations. Of them, 52.6% were overweight/obese, and 11.7% had at least one chronic comorbidity. Of the participants, 1.4, 0.9, 20.2, 75.2, and 2.2% were never vaccinated, primed with only one dose, primed with two doses, boosted with only one dose, and boosted with two doses, respectively. All were polymerase chain reaction-negative to SARS-CoV-2. BBIBP-CorV (Sinopharm) was the most commonly used vaccine (92.1%), followed by rAd26-S + rAd5-S (Sputnik V Gam-COVID-Vac) (1.5%) and BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) (0.3%). Seropositivity to anti-S, anti-N, and neutralizing IgG antibodies was detected in 99.7, 99.9, and 99.3% of the study participants, respectively. The T-cell response was detected in 38.2% of 925 study participants. Every additional vaccine dose was significantly associated with increased odds of having ≥median concentration of anti-S [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.34; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-1.76], anti-N (aOR, 1.35; 95% CI: 1.03-1.75), neutralizing IgG antibodies (aOR, 1.29; 95% CI: 1.00-1.66), and a T-cell response (aOR, 1.48; 95% CI: 1.12-1.95). Compared with boosting with only one dose, boosting with two doses was significantly associated with increased odds of having ≥median concentration of anti-S (aOR, 13.8; 95% CI: 1.78-106.5), neutralizing IgG antibodies (aOR, 13.2; 95% CI: 1.71-101.9), and T-cell response (aOR, 7.22; 95% CI: 1.99-26.5) although not with anti-N (aOR, 0.41; 95% CI: 0.16-1.08). Compared with priming and subsequently boosting with BBIBP-CorV, all participants who were primed with BBIBP-CorV and subsequently boosted with BNT162b2 had ≥median concentration of anti-S and neutralizing IgG antibodies and 14.6-time increased odds of having a T-cell response (aOR, 14.63; 95% CI: 1.78-120.5). Compared with priming with two doses, boosting with the third dose was not associated, whereas boosting with two doses was significantly associated with having ≥median concentration of anti-S (aOR, 14.20; 95% CI: 1.85-109.4), neutralizing IgG (aOR, 13.6; 95% CI: 1.77-104.3), and T-cell response (aOR, 7.62; 95% CI: 2.09-27.8). Conclusion Achieving and maintaining a high blood concentration of protective immune biomarkers that predict vaccine effectiveness is very critical to limit transmission and contain outbreaks. In this study, boosting with only one dose or with only BBIBP-CorV after priming with BBIBP-CorV was insufficient, whereas boosting with two doses, particularly boosting with the mRNA-based vaccine, was shown to be associated with having a high concentration of anti-S, anti-N, and neutralizing IgG antibodies and producing an efficient T-cell response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,*Correspondence: Rami H. Al-Rifai,
| | - Farida Alhosani
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center–ADPHC, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rowan Abuyadek
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center–ADPHC, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Shereen Atef
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Basel Altrabulsi
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute (PLMI), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Adnan Alatoom
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute (PLMI), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed R. Alsuwaidi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Laila AbdelWareth
- National Reference Laboratory, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute (PLMI), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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22
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Alam Z, Abdalla MA, Alseiari S, Alameemi M, Alzaabi M, Alkhoori R, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH. Polycystic ovarian syndrome among women diagnosed with infertility in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence studies. Womens Health (Lond) 2023; 19:17455057231160940. [PMID: 36999302 PMCID: PMC10071214 DOI: 10.1177/17455057231160940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovarian syndrome, a common endocrine disorder, is an important cause of infertility among women of reproductive age. Within the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, polycystic ovarian syndrome is found to affect women increasingly. No study has been carried out to critically summarize the evidence on the prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome among women suffering from infertility in these countries. OBJECTIVE This protocol aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the studies reporting the prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome among women seeking infertility treatment in the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and United Arab Emirates). DESIGN/METHODS AND ANALYSIS The systematic review and meta-analysis will follow the following method. DATA SOURCE Five databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and SCOPUS, will be searched for observational studies using a combination of relevant keywords and Medical Subject Headings from inception of databases. DATA EXTRACTION Two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts, followed by a full-text search based on the eligibility criteria. The main outcome is to measure the proportion of women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome among infertility-diagnosed patients. In addition, the risk of bias in the included studies will be assessed using the national institute of health quality assessment tool for observational studies. DATA SYNTHESIS The random-effects method of the analysis with the inverse variance will be used to calculate the pooled prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome-attributed infertility. Variation in prevalence estimates will be calculated using subgroup analysis based on study and patients' characteristics and publication bias will be assessed via funnel plot inspection and Eggar's test. DISCUSSION A critical assessment of evidence on the prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome in women attending fertility clinics is helpful in risk quantification, enabling better planning for managing infertility in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. REGISTRATION This protocol has been registered with PROSPERO, protocol registration number (CRD42022355087).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zufishan Alam
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Saleh Alseiari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mahra Alameemi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mayytha Alzaabi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Reem Alkhoori
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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23
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Bashir MM, Ahmed LA, Elbarazi I, Loney T, Al-Rifai RH, Alkaabi JM, Al-Maskari F. Incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus in the United Arab Emirates; comparison of six diagnostic criteria: The Mutaba'ah Study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1069477. [PMID: 36578957 PMCID: PMC9791114 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1069477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For more than half a century, there has been much research and controversies on how to accurately screen for and diagnose gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). There is a paucity of updated research among the Emirati population in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The lack of a uniform GDM diagnostic criteria results in the inability to accurately combine or compare the disease burden worldwide and locally. This study aimed to compare the incidence of GDM in the Emirati population using six diagnostic criteria for GDM. Methods The Mutaba'ah study is the largest multi-center mother and child cohort study in the UAE with an 18-year follow-up. We included singleton pregnancies from the Mutaba'ah cohort screened with the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24-32 weeks from May 2017 to March 2021. We excluded patients with known diabetes and with newly diagnosed diabetes. GDM cumulative incidence was determined using the six specified criteria. GDM risk factors were compared using chi-square and t-tests. Agreements among the six criteria were assessed using kappa statistics. Results A total of 2,546 women were included with a mean age of 30.5 ± 6.0 years. Mean gravidity was 3.5 ± 2.1, and mean body mass index (BMI) at booking was 27.7 ± 5.6 kg/m2. GDM incidence as diagnosed by any of the six criteria collectively was 27.1%. It ranged from 8.4% according to the EASD 1996 criteria to 21.5% according to the NICE 2015 criteria. The two most inclusive criteria were the NICE 2015 and the IADPSG criteria with GDM incidence rates of 21.5% (95% CI: 19.9, 23.1) and 21.3% (95% CI: 19.8, 23.0), respectively. Agreement between the two criteria was moderate (k = 0.66; p < 0.001). The least inclusive was the EASD 1996 criteria [8.4% (95% CI: 7.3, 9.6)]. The locally recommended IADPSG/WHO 2013 criteria had weak to moderate agreement with the other criteria, with Cohen's kappa coefficient ranging from (k = 0.51; p < 0.001) to (k = 0.71; p < 0.001). Most of the GDM risk factors assessed were significantly higher among those with GDM (p < 0.005) identified by all criteria. Conclusions The findings indicate discrepancies among the diagnostic criteria in identifying GDM cases. This emphasizes the need to unify GDM diagnostic criteria in this population to provide accurate and reliable incidence estimates for healthcare planning, especially because the agreement with the recommended criteria was not optimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam M. Bashir
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Juma M. Alkaabi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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24
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Abdo NM, Aslam I, Irfan S, George JA, Alsuwaidi AR, Ahmed LA, Al-Rifai RH. Herpes simplex virus type 2 seroprevalence and associated factors in fertility-treatment-seeking population: A cross-sectional survey in the United Arab Emirates. Front Public Health 2022; 10:991040. [PMID: 36420003 PMCID: PMC9677722 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.991040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a common genitally-transmitted viral infection affecting more than 400 million individuals globally. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in specific at-risk population groups, the burden of HSV-2 has not been reported. This study investigated the prevalence of HSV-2 IgG antibodies in patients seeking fertility treatment and characterized patients with seropositivity to HSV-2 IgG antibodies. Methodology A cross-sectional sample of patients seeking fertility treatment in a major fertility clinic in Abu Dhabi, UAE was surveyed from April to May 2021. Patients were consecutively invited to complete self-administered questionnaires and provide blood for HSV-2 testing. Information on sociodemographics, medical history, and infertility was collected. Serum specimens were screened using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for HSV-2 IgG antibodies detection. Results Two hundred and ninety-nine patients were surveyed and provided blood samples. The mean age of the patients was 35.9 ± 6.8 [mean ± standard deviation (SD)] years with 89.3% being women. Sixty-six percent were overweight or obese, 25.0% had at least one chronic comorbidity, and 19.6% reported ever-had genital infection. More than two-thirds (68.3%) of the patients were infertile for ≥ 6 months. Of the 42 infertile males, 69.0% had an abnormal semen analysis. HSV-2 IgG antibodies was detected in 12.4% of patients. The HSV-2 IgG seropositive patients had a higher mean age (39.5 vs. 35.4 years; p < 0.001) compared to seronegative patients. HSV-2 IgG antibodies seropositivity was more common in males (15.6%) than females (12.0%), in patients with secondary (14.1%) vs. primary (9.2%) infertility, or in males with abnormal (10.3%) vs. normal (7.7%) semen. Conclusion Exposure to HSV-2 at any time in patients seeking fertility treatment in the UAE was found to be slightly common in more than one out of 10 patients. Tailored health campaigns on HSV-2 prevention are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Motea Abdo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Irfan Aslam
- HealthPlus Fertility and Genetics Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shazia Irfan
- HealthPlus Fertility and Genetics Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Junu A. George
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed R. Alsuwaidi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,Zayed Center for Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,Zayed Center for Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,*Correspondence: Rami H. Al-Rifai
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Mezhal F, Ahmad A, Abdulle A, Leinberger-Jabari A, Oulhaj A, AlJunaibi A, Alnaeemi A, Al Dhaheri AS, AlZaabi E, Al-Maskari F, AlAnouti F, Alsafar H, Alkaabi J, Wareth LA, Aljaber M, Kazim M, Alblooshi M, Al-Houqani M, Hag Ali M, Oumeziane N, El-Shahawy O, Al-Rifai RH, Sherman S, Shah SM, Loney T, Almahmeed W, Idaghdour Y, Ahmed LA, Ali R. Metabolic Syndrome in Fasting and Non-Fasting Participants: The UAE Healthy Future Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:13757. [PMID: 36360639 PMCID: PMC9654954 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multiplex of risk factors that predispose people to the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD), two of the major non-communicable diseases that contribute to mortality in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). MetS guidelines require the testing of fasting samples, but there are evidence-based suggestions that non-fasting samples are also reliable for CVD-related screening measures. In this study, we aimed to estimate MetS and its components in a sample of young Emiratis using HbA1c as another glycemic marker. We also aimed to estimate the associations of some known CVD risk factors with MetS in our population. METHODS The study was based on a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data of 5161 participants from the UAE Healthy Future Study (UAEHFS). MetS was identified using the NCEP ATP III criteria, with the addition of HbA1c as another glycemic indicator. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and HbA1c were used either individually or combined to identify the glycemic component of MetS, based on the fasting status. Multivariate regression analysis was used to test for associations of selected social and behavioral factors with MetS. RESULTS Our sample included 3196 men and 1965 women below the age of 40 years. Only about 21% of the sample were fasting at the time of recruitment. The age-adjusted prevalence of MetS was estimated as 22.7% in males and 12.5% in females. MetS prevalence was not statistically different after substituting FBG by HbA1c in the fasting groups (p > 0.05). Age, increased body mass index (BMI), and family history of any metabolic abnormality and/or heart disease were consistently strongly associated with MetS. CONCLUSION MetS is highly prevalent in our sample of young Emirati adults. Our data showed that HbA1c may be an acceptable tool to test for the glycemic component of MetS in non-fasting samples. We found that the most relevant risk factors for predicting the prevalence of MetS were age, BMI, and family history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Mezhal
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amar Ahmad
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdishakur Abdulle
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Andrea Leinberger-Jabari
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abderrahim Oulhaj
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdulla AlJunaibi
- Department of Pediatrics, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 72763, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdulla Alnaeemi
- Department of Cardiology, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 72763, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayesha S. Al Dhaheri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eiman AlZaabi
- Department of Pathology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi 11001, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatme AlAnouti
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi 144534, United Arab Emirates
| | - Habiba Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Juma Alkaabi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Laila Abdel Wareth
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 112412, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mai Aljaber
- Healthpoint Hospital, Abu Dhabi 112308, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marina Kazim
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Abu Dhabi 109090, United Arab Emirates
| | - Manal Alblooshi
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad Al-Houqani
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad Hag Ali
- Department of Health Science, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi 25026, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naima Oumeziane
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Abu Dhabi 109090, United Arab Emirates
| | - Omar El-Shahawy
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10595, USA
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Scott Sherman
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10595, USA
| | - Syed M. Shah
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 112412, United Arab Emirates
| | - Youssef Idaghdour
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raghib Ali
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi 129188, United Arab Emirates
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SL, UK
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Bashir MM, Ahmed LA, Alshamsi MR, Almahrooqi S, Alyammahi T, Alshehhi SA, Alhammadi WI, Alhosani HA, Alhammadi FH, Al-Rifai RH, Al-Maskari F. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Its Knowledge and Associated Factors among United Arab Emirates University Students. IJERPH 2022; 19:ijerph19148381. [PMID: 35886231 PMCID: PMC9321366 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) burden is burgeoning globally. Correct knowledge about GDM among young people is paramount for timely prevention. This study assesses GDM knowledge and identifies factors associated with it among United Arab Emirates (UAE) University students. A validated self-administered questionnaire collected data from the university students. We analyzed the data for GDM knowledge status (ever heard of GDM) and GDM knowledge levels (poor, fair, and good) and conducted ordinal logistic regressions to assess for associated factors. A total of 735 students were surveyed with a mean age of 21.0 years. Of these, 72.8% had heard of GDM, and 52.9% of males versus 20.3% of female students had never heard of the condition before. Higher age (p = 0.019) and being a postgraduate student (p = 0.026) were associated with higher GDM knowledge status in males. GDM knowledge level analysis showed that 24.0%, 58.5%, and 17.5% had poor, fair, and good knowledge. The mean GDM-knowledge score was 6.3 ± 2.4 (out of 12). Being married [aOR-1.82 (95%CI 1.10–3.03)] and knowing someone who had GDM [aOR-1.78 (95%CI 1.23–2.60)] were independently associated with higher GDM knowledge levels among students. Students’ primary source of GDM knowledge was family/friends. There is an observed knowledge gap related to GDM among the students, especially males. This study urges the need to accelerate targeted GDM awareness campaigns among university students and the general population in the UAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam M. Bashir
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Meera R. Alshamsi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Sara Almahrooqi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Taif Alyammahi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Shooq A. Alshehhi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Waad I. Alhammadi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Hind A. Alhosani
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Fatima H. Alhammadi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates; (M.M.B.); (L.A.A.); (M.R.A.); (S.A.); (T.A.); (S.A.A.); (W.I.A.); (H.A.A.); (F.H.A.); (R.H.A.-R.)
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence:
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Al-Omari B, Ahmad T, Al-Rifai RH. SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 Research Trend during the First Two Years of the Pandemic in the United Arab Emirates: A PRISMA-Compliant Bibliometric Analysis. IJERPH 2022; 19:ijerph19137753. [PMID: 35805413 PMCID: PMC9266175 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Scientific research is an integral part of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. This bibliometric analysis describes the COVID-19 research productivity of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)-affiliated researchers during the first two years of the pandemic, 2020 to 2022. The Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database was utilized to retrieve publications related to COVID-19 published by UAE-affiliated researcher(s). A total of 1008 publications met the inclusion criteria and were included in this bibliometric analysis. The most studied broad topics were general internal medicine (11.9%), public environmental occupational health (7.8%), pharmacology/pharmacy (6.3%), multidisciplinary sciences (5%), and infectious diseases (3.4%). About 67% were primary research articles, 16% were reviews, and the remaining were editorials letters (11.5%), meeting abstracts/proceedings papers (5%), and document corrections (0.4%). The University of Sharjah was the leading UAE-affiliated organization achieving 26.3% of the publications and funding 1.8% of the total 1008 published research. This study features the research trends in COVID-19 research affiliated with the UAE and shows the future directions. There was an observable nationally and international collaboration of the UAE-affiliated authors, particularly with researchers from the USA and England. This study highlights the need for in-depth systematic reviews addressing the specific COVID-19 research-related questions and studied populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basem Al-Omari
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 127788, United Arab Emirates;
- KU Research and Data Intelligence Support Center (RDISC), Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 127788, United Arab Emirates
- COVID-19 Research Epidemiology Sub-Committee of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Abu Dhabi Department of Health, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 5674, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tauseef Ahmad
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; or
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- COVID-19 Research Epidemiology Sub-Committee of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Abu Dhabi Department of Health, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 5674, United Arab Emirates
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirate University, Al Ain P.O. Box 15551, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence:
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Taha MN, Al-Ghumgham Z, Ali N, Al-Rifai RH, Elbarazi I, Al-Maskari F, El-Shahawy O, Ahmed LA, Loney T. Tobacco Use and Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke amongst Pregnant Women in the United Arab Emirates: The Mutaba'ah Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19127498. [PMID: 35742747 PMCID: PMC9224424 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Self-reported tobacco use is high in the male adult Emirati population (males ~36% vs. females ~3%); however, there are minimal data on tobacco use or exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) during pregnancy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study investigated the prevalence of, and factors associated with, tobacco use and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) amongst pregnant women in the UAE. Baseline cross-sectional data were analysed from the Mutaba’ah Study. Expectant mothers completed a self-administered questionnaire collecting sociodemographic information, maternal tobacco use, and ETS exposure during antenatal visits at three hospitals in Al Ain (UAE; May 2017–February 2021). Amongst 8586 women included in the study, self-reported tobacco use during pregnancy was low (0.7%), paternal tobacco use was high (37.9%), and a third (34.8%) of expectant mothers were exposed to ETS (28.0% at home only). Pregnant women who were employed (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.19–1.52), with childbirth anxiety (aOR 1.21, 95% CI 1.08–1.36), and with an increased number of adults living in the same household (aOR 1.02 95% CI 1.01–1.03) were independently more likely to be exposed to ETS. Pregnant women with higher education levels (aOR 0.84, 95% CI 0.75–0.94) and higher gravidity (aOR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.99) were less likely to be exposed to ETS. Public health efforts targeting smoking cessation amongst husbands and promoting smoke-free homes are warranted to help reduce prenatal ETS exposure in the UAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Nagdi Taha
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates; (M.N.T.); (Z.A.-G.)
| | - Zaki Al-Ghumgham
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates; (M.N.T.); (Z.A.-G.)
| | - Nasloon Ali
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (N.A.); (R.H.A.-R.); (I.E.); (F.A.-M.); (L.A.A.)
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (N.A.); (R.H.A.-R.); (I.E.); (F.A.-M.); (L.A.A.)
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (N.A.); (R.H.A.-R.); (I.E.); (F.A.-M.); (L.A.A.)
| | - Fatima Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (N.A.); (R.H.A.-R.); (I.E.); (F.A.-M.); (L.A.A.)
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Omar El-Shahawy
- Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Use Section, Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA;
- Division of Global Health, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (N.A.); (R.H.A.-R.); (I.E.); (F.A.-M.); (L.A.A.)
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates; (M.N.T.); (Z.A.-G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +971-43-838-737
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Alfalasi M, Alzaabi S, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Al-Salam S, Mertes PM, Alper SL, Aburawi EH, Bellou A. Effect of Nitric Oxide Pathway Inhibition on the Evolution of Anaphylactic Shock in Animal Models: A Systematic Review. Biology 2022; 11:biology11060919. [PMID: 35741440 PMCID: PMC9228251 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Anaphylactic shock (AS) is the most serious consequence of anaphylaxis, with life-threatening sequelae including hypovolemia, shock, and arrhythmias. The literature lacks evidence for the effectiveness of interventions other than epinephrine in the acute phase of anaphylaxis. Our objective was to assess, through a systematic review, how inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) pathways affects blood pressure, and whether such blockade improves survival in AS animal models. AS was induced in all included studies after or before drug administration that targeted blockade of the NO pathway. In all animal species studied, the induction of AS caused a reduction in arterial blood pressure. However, the results show different responses to the inhibition of nitric oxide pathways. Overall, seven of fourteen studies using inhibition of nitric oxide pathways as pre-treatment before induction of AS showed improvement of survival and/or blood pressure. Four post-treatment studies from eight also showed positive outcomes. This review did not find strong evidence to propose modulation of blockade of the NO/cGMP pathway as a definitive treatment for AS in humans. Well-designed in vivo AS animal pharmacological models are needed to explore the other pathways involved, supporting the concept of pharmacological modulation. Abstract Nitric oxide (NO) induces vasodilation in various types of shock. The effect of pharmacological modulation of the NO pathway in anaphylactic shock (AS) remains poorly understood. Our objective was to assess, through a systematic review, whether inhibition of NO pathways (INOP) was beneficial for the prevention and/or treatment of AS. A predesigned protocol for this systematic review was published in PROSPERO (CRD42019132273). A systematic literature search was conducted till March 2022 in the electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane and Web of Science. Heterogeneity of the studies did not allow meta-analysis. Nine hundred ninety unique studies were identified. Of 135 studies screened in full text, 17 were included in the review. Among six inhibitors of NO pathways identified, four blocked NO synthase activity and two blocked guanylate cyclase downstream activity. Pre-treatment was used in nine studies and post-treatment in three studies. Five studies included both pre-treatment and post-treatment models. Overall, seven pre-treatment studies from fourteen showed improvement of survival and/or arterial blood pressure. Four post-treatment studies from eight showed positive outcomes. Overall, there was no strong evidence to conclude that isolated blockade of the NO/cGMP pathway is sufficient to prevent or restore anaphylactic hypotension. Further studies are needed to analyze the effect of drug combinations in the treatment of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Alfalasi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Sarah Alzaabi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Linda Östlundh
- National Medical Library, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Suhail Al-Salam
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Paul Michel Mertes
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, University Hospital of Strasbourg, 67091 Strasbourg, France;
- Faculty of Medicine, EA 3072, Federation of Translational Medicine, University of Strasbourg, 67091 Strasbourg, France
| | - Seth L. Alper
- Division of Nephrology and Vascular Biology Research Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Elhadi H. Aburawi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Abdelouahab Bellou
- Institute of Sciences in Emergency Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences of Guangdong, Guangzhou 510060, China
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Academy of Medical Sciences of Guangdong, Guangzhou 510060, China
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
- Correspondence:
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Abdalla MA, Shah N, Deshmukh H, Sahebkar A, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Atkin SL, Sathyapalan T. Impact of pharmacological interventions on anthropometric indices in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 96:758-780. [PMID: 34918367 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous condition affecting women of reproductive age and is associated with increased body weight. OBJECTIVE To review the literature on the effect of different pharmacological interventions on the anthropometric indices in women with PCOS. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane library, and the Web of Science in April 2020 with an update in PubMed in March 2021. STUDY SELECTION The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)2020. DATA EXTRACTION Reviewers extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. RESULTS 80 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. Metformin vs placebo showed significant reduction in the mean body weight (MD: -3.13 kg; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -5.33 to -0.93, I² = 5%) and the mean body mass index (BMI) (MD: -0.75 kg/m2 ; 95% CI: -1.15 to -0.36, I² = 0%). There was a significant reduction in the mean BMI with orlistat versus placebo (MD: -1.33 kg/m²; 95% CI: -2.16 to -0.66, I² = 0.0%), acarbose versus metformin (MD: -1.26 kg/m²; 95% CI: -2.13 to -0.38, I² = 0%), and metformin versus pioglitazone (MD: -0.91 kg/m²; 95% CI: -1.62 to -0.19, I² = 0%). A significant increase in the mean BMI was also observed in pioglitazone versus placebo (MD: + 2.59 kg/m²; 95% CI: 1.78-3.38, I² = 0%) and in rosiglitazone versus metformin (MD: + 0.80 kg/m²; 95% CI: 0.32-1.27, I² = 3%). There was a significant reduction in the mean waist circumference (WC) with metformin versus placebo (MD: -1.21 cm; 95% CI: -3.71 to 1.29, I² = 0%) while a significant increase in the mean WC with pioglitazone versus placebo (MD: + 5.45 cm; 95% CI: 2.18-8.71, I² = 0%). CONCLUSION Pharmacological interventions including metformin, sitagliptin, pioglitazone, rosiglitazone orlistat, and acarbose have significant effects on the anthropometric indices in women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Abdalla
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Najeeb Shah
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Harshal Deshmukh
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Linda Östlundh
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, The National Medical Library, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stephen L Atkin
- School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Thozhukat Sathyapalan
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Menon P, El-Deyarbi M, Khan MA, Al-Rifai RH, Grivna M, Östlundh L, Ei-Sadig M. Risk factors associated with quadbike crashes: a systematic review. World J Emerg Surg 2022; 17:27. [PMID: 35619139 PMCID: PMC9137103 DOI: 10.1186/s13017-022-00430-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Quadbikes or all-terrain vehicles are known for their propensity for crashes resulting in injury, disability, and death. The control of these needless losses resulting from quadbike crashes has become an essential contributor to sustainable development goals. Understanding the risk factors for such injuries is essential for developing preventive policies and strategies. The aim of this review was to identify the risk factors associated with quadbike crashes at multiple levels through a systematic review of a wide range of study designs. Methods The study incorporated a mixed-method systematic review approach and followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines for reporting systematic reviews, including a peer reviewed protocol. This systematic review included observational studies investigating the risk factors associated with quadbike crashes, injuries, or deaths. Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to October 2021. Studies were screened and extracted by three researchers. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Due to extensive heterogeneity, meta-analysis was not conducted. All the risk factors have been presented in a narrative synthesis for discussion following the guidelines for Synthesis without Meta-analysis (SWiM). Results Thirty-nine studies combining an aggregate of 65,170 participants were included in this systematic review. The results indicate that modifiable risk factors, such as the increasing age of driving initiation, reducing substance use, and the use of organized riding parks, could reduce quadbike injuries. Riding practices such as avoiding passengers, avoiding nighttime riding, and using helmets could significantly reduce crashes and injuries among riders. Vehicle modifications such as increasing the wheelbase and limiting engine displacement could also help reduce crash incidence. Traditional interventional methods, such as legislation and training, had a weak influence on reducing quadbike injuries. Conclusion Multiple risk factors are associated with quadbike injuries, with most of them modifiable. Strengthening policies and awareness to minimize risk factors would help in reducing accidents associated with quadbikes. PROSPERO registration number CRD42020170245
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetha Menon
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marwan El-Deyarbi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Moien Ab Khan
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Michal Grivna
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Linda Östlundh
- National Medical Library, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed Ei-Sadig
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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Abdalla MA, Shah N, Deshmukh H, Sahebkar A, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Atkin SL, Sathyapalan T. Impact of pharmacological interventions on biochemical hyperandrogenemia in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 307:1347-1376. [PMID: 35434762 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06549-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disease that affects women of reproductive age and is characterised by biochemical and clinical androgen excess. AIM To evaluate the efficacy of pharmacological interventions used to decrease androgen hormones in women with PCOS. DATA SOURCE We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane library and the Web of Science from inception up to March 2021. DATA SYNTHESIS Two reviewers selected eligible studies and extracted data, and the review is reported according to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). RESULTS Of the 814 randomised clinical trials (RCTs) located in the search, 92 met the eligibility criteria. There were significant reductions in total testosterone level with metformin versus (vs) placebo (SMD: - 0.33; 95% CI - 0.49 to - 0.17, p < 0.0001, moderate grade evidence) and dexamethasone vs placebo (MD:-0.86 nmol/L; 95% CI - 1.34 to - 0.39, p = 0.0004, very low-grade evidence). Significant reductions in the free testosterone with sitagliptin vs placebo (SMD: - 0.47; 95% CI - 0.97 to 0.04, p = 0.07, very low-grade evidence), in dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) with flutamide vs finasteride (MD: - 0.37 µg/dL; 95% CI - 0.05 to - 0.58, p = 0.02, very low-grade evidence), a significant reduction in androstenedione (A4) with rosiglitazone vs placebo (SMD: - 1.67; 95% CI - 2.27 to - 1.06; 59 participants, p < 0.00001, very low-grade evidence), and a significant increase in sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) with oral contraceptive pill (OCP) (35 µg Ethinyl Estradiol (EE)/2 mg cyproterone acetate (CPA)) vs placebo (MD: 103.30 nmol/L; 95% CI 55.54-151.05, p < 0.0001, very low-grade evidence) were observed. CONCLUSION Metformin, OCP, dexamethasone, flutamide, and rosiglitazone use were associated with a significant reduction in biochemical hyperandrogenemia in women with PCOS, though their individual use may be limited due to their side effects. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NO CRD42020178783.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Altigani Abdalla
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Allam Diabetes Centre, The University of Hull, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), Hull, UK
| | - Najeeb Shah
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Allam Diabetes Centre, The University of Hull, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), Hull, UK
| | - Harshal Deshmukh
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Allam Diabetes Centre, The University of Hull, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), Hull, UK
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Applied Biomedical Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,School of Medicine, the University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Linda Östlundh
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, the National Medical Library, United Arab Emirates University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stephen L Atkin
- School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Thozhukat Sathyapalan
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Allam Diabetes Centre, The University of Hull, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), Hull, UK.
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Abdalla MA, Shah N, Deshmukh H, Sahebkar A, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Atkin SL, Sathyapalan T. Effect of pharmacological interventions on lipid profiles and C-reactive protein in polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 96:443-459. [PMID: 34779013 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous condition affecting women of reproductive age. It is associated with dyslipidaemia and elevated plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), which increase the risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD). OBJECTIVE To review the existing evidence on the effects of different pharmacological interventions on lipid profiles and CRP of women with PCOS. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science in April 2020 and updated the results in March 2021. STUDY SELECTION The study included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and follows the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). DATA EXTRACTION Two independent researchers extracted data and assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Covidence systematic review software were used for blinded screening and study selection. DATA SYNTHESIS In 29 RCTs, there were significant reductions in triglycerides with atorvastatin versus placebo [mean difference (MD): -0.21 mmol/L; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.39, -0.03, I2 = 0%, moderate grade evidence]. Significant reductions were seen for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with metformin versus placebo [standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.41; 95% CI: -0.85, 0.02, I2 = 59%, low grade evidence]. Significant reductions were also seen for total cholesterol with saxagliptin versus metformin (MD: -0.15 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.23, -0.08, I2 = 0%, very low grade evidence). Significant reductions in C-reactive protein (CRP) were seen for atorvastatin versus placebo (MD: -1.51 mmol/L; 95% CI: -3.26 to 0.24, I2 = 75%, very low-grade evidence). CONCLUSION There were significant reductions in the lipid parameters when metformin, atorvastatin, saxagliptin, rosiglitazone and pioglitazone were compared with placebo or other agents. There was also a significant reduction of CRP with atorvastatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Abdalla
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Najeeb Shah
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Harshal Deshmukh
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad, Iran
- Mashhad University of Medical Sciences I Applied Biomedical Research Centre, Mashhad, Iran
- The University of Western Australia I School of Medicine, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Linda Östlundh
- United Arab Emirate University I College of Medicine and Health Sciences, The National Medical Library, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- United Arab Emirate University I College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stephen L Atkin
- RCSI Medical University of Bahrain I School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, Bahrain, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Thozhukat Sathyapalan
- Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Abdalla MA, Shah N, Deshmukh H, Sahebkar A, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Atkin SL, Sathyapalan T. Impact of pharmacological interventions on insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 96:371-394. [PMID: 34713480 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine condition affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by insulin resistance and is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The objective was to review the literature on the effect of different pharmacological interventions on insulin resistance in women with PCOS. DESIGN We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane library and the Web of Science in April 2020 and updated in March 2021. The study follows the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-ana. Reviwers extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. RESULTS In 58 randomized controlled trials there were significant reductions in the fasting blood glucose (FBG) with metformin versus placebo (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.23; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.40, -0.06; I² = 0%, low-grade evidence), and acarbose versus metformin (mean difference [MD]: -10.50 mg/dl; 95% CI: -15.76, -5.24; I² = 0%, low-grade evidence). Significant reductions in fasting insulin (FI) with pioglitazone versus placebo (SMD: -0.55; 95% CI: -1.03, -0.07; I² = 37%; p = .02, very-low-grade evidence). A significant reduction in homoeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was seen with exenatide versus metformin (MD: -0.34; 95% CI: -0.65, -0.03; I² = 0%, low-grade evidence). No effect on homoeostatic model assessment of beta cells (HOMA-B) was observed. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacological interventions, including metformin, acarbose, pioglitazone and exenatide have significant effects on FBG, FI, HOMA-IR but not on HOMA-B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Abdalla
- Department of Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Najeeb Shah
- Department of Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Harshal Deshmukh
- Department of Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Centre, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Linda Östlundh
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, The National Medical Library, United Arab Emirate University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirate University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stephen L Atkin
- School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Thozhukat Sathyapalan
- Department of Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), The University of Hull, Hull, UK
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Eldin NMB, Saleh M, Labib B, Othman M, Chacko L, Mae D, Elnour L, Al-Rifai RH. Clinical and Laboratory Features of PCR-Confirmed and Clinically Suspected COVID-19 Pediatric Patients: A Single Hospital-Based Experience During the First COVID-19 Wave in the United Arab Emirates. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:830587. [PMID: 35372173 PMCID: PMC8965316 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.830587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated clinical and laboratory differences between confirmed (RT-PCR-positive) and clinically suspected (RT-PCR-negative) COVID-19 pediatric patients, and explored factors associated with disease severity at presentation and duration of hospitalization. METHODS Medical charts of COVID-19-confirmed and clinically suspected pediatric patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Abu Dhabi were reviewed. Sociodemographic information and clinical and laboratory outcomes were retrieved and analyzed. RESULTS Between 1 April to 30 June, 2020, 173 patients (mean age: 3.6 ± SD 3.2 years) presented with respiratory symptoms. Of them, 18.0% had confirmed contact with COVID-19 cases, 66.5% had symptoms for ≤3 days, and 86.7% were with moderate to severe disease. Twenty-eight (16.1%) patients tested positive while the rest (83.8%) tested negative in RT-PCR. COVID-19-confirmed and clinically suspected patients were statistically similar (p > 0.05) in all sociodemographic data, disease severity, and vital signs except residence status (89.3% vs. 58.6% were residents, respectively, p = 0.002) and contact with confirmed COVID-19 cases (82.1% vs. 5.5%, respectively, p < 0.001). Fever (100 and 91.0%) and cough (100 and 95.9%) were the most common symptoms in both confirmed and clinically suspected COVID-19 patients. All patients were statistically comparable in mean white blood cell and platelet counts and hemoglobin concentration, except in mean concentration of neutrophils (higher in clinically suspected, p = 0.019). C-reactive protein was two times higher in clinically suspected compared to confirmed patients (p = 0.043). Lymphocyte (OR: 1.31, p < 0.001), LDH (OR: 1.01, p = 0.001), D-dimer (OR: 1.92, p < 0.001), and ferritin levels after 24-36 h (OR: 9.25, p < 0.05), and SGPT (OR: 1.04, p < 0.05) were all associated with disease severity. Elevated ferritin (>300 μg/L) after 24-36 h was the only correlated factor with disease severity (aOR: 17.38, p < 0.05). Confirmed compared with clinically suspected patients (aOR: 4.00, 95% CI: 2.92-5.10) and children with moderate compared with mild disease (aOR: 5.87, 95% CI: 1.08-32.06) had longer hospitalization. CONCLUSION In pediatric patients with negative RT-PCR, COVID-19 is still suspected based on clinical symptoms and epidemiological data. A tentative diagnosis can be made based on a thorough examination, and proper medical management can be initiated promptly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nashwa M B Eldin
- Department of Pediatric, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maysa Saleh
- Pediatric Department, Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Marwa Othman
- Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Lalu Chacko
- Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Daphne Mae
- Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abdalla MA, Shah N, Deshmukh H, Sahebkar A, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Atkin SL, Sathyapalan T. Impact of metformin on the clinical and metabolic parameters of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2022; 13:20420188221127142. [PMID: 36225721 PMCID: PMC9548689 DOI: 10.1177/20420188221127142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the commonest endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age, and metformin is a widely used medication in managing this condition. AIM To review the available literature comprehensively on the therapeutic impact of metformin on the clinical and metabolic parameters of women with PCOS. DATA SOURCE We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library and the Web of Science and selected sources for grey literature from their inception to April 2020. An updated search in PubMed was performed in June 2022. DATA SYNTHESIS Two reviewers selected eligible studies and extracted data, and the review is reported following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). RESULTS In 24 eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving 564 participants who received metformin therapy, metformin was associated with significant reduction in body weight by 3.13 kg (95% CI: -5.33, -0.93), body mass index (BMI) by 0.82 kg/m² (95% CI: -1.22, -0.41), fasting blood glucose [standardised mean difference (SMD): -0.23; 95% CI: -0.40, -0.06], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (SMD: -0.41; 95% CI: -0.85, 0.03), total testosterone (SMD: -0.33; 95% CI: -0.49, -0.17), androstenedione (SMD: -0.45; 95% CI: -0.70, -0.20), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) (SMD: -0.58; 95% CI: -1.16, 0.00) and increase the likelihood of clinical pregnancy rate [odds ratio (OR): 3.00; 95% CI: 1.95, 4.59] compared with placebo. CONCLUSION In women with PCOS, metformin use has shown a positive impact in reducing body weight, BMI, total testosterone, androstenedione, 17-OHP, LDL-C, fasting blood glucose and increasing the likelihood of pregnancy in women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Altigani Abdalla
- Allam Diabetes Centre, Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Najeeb Shah
- Allam Diabetes Centre, Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Harshal Deshmukh
- Allam Diabetes Centre, Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hull York Medical School (HYMS), University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Linda Östlundh
- National Medical Library, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stephen L. Atkin
- School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, Busaiteen, Kingdom of Bahrain
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Paulo MS, Abdo NM, Bettencourt-Silva R, Al-Rifai RH. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prevalence Studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:691033. [PMID: 34956073 PMCID: PMC8698118 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.691033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is defined as the type of hyperglycemia diagnosed for the first-time during pregnancy, presenting with intermediate glucose levels between normal levels for pregnancy and glucose levels diagnostic of diabetes in the non-pregnant state. We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze studies of prevalence of GDM in European countries at regional and sub-regional levels, according to age, trimester, body weight, and GDM diagnostic criteria. Methods Systematic search was conducted in five databases to retrieve studies from 2014 to 2019 reporting the prevalence of GDM in Europe. Two authors have independently screened titles and abstracts and full text according to eligibility using Covidence software. A random-effects model was used to quantify weighted GDM prevalence estimates. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute criteria was used to assess the risk of bias. Results From the searched databases, 133 research reports were deemed eligible and included in the meta-analysis. The research reports yielded 254 GDM-prevalence studies that tested 15,572,847 pregnant women between 2014 and 2019. The 133 research reports were from 24 countries in Northern Europe (44.4%), Southern Europe (27.1%), Western Europe (24.1%), and Eastern Europe (4.5%). The overall weighted GDM prevalence in the 24 European countries was estimated at 10.9% (95% CI: 10.0-11.8, I2 : 100%). The weighted GDM prevalence was highest in the Eastern Europe (31.5%, 95% CI: 19.8-44.6, I2 : 98.9%), followed by in Southern Europe (12.3%, 95% CI: 10.9-13.9, I2 : 99.6%), Western Europe (10.7%, 95% CI: 9.5-12.0, I2 : 99.9%), and Northern Europe (8.9%, 95% CI: 7.9-10.0, I2 : 100). GDM prevalence was 2.14-fold increased in pregnant women with maternal age ≥30 years (versus 15-29 years old), 1.47-fold if the diagnosis was made in the third trimester (versus second trimester), and 6.79- fold in obese and 2.29-fold in overweight women (versus normal weight). Conclusions In Europe, GDM is significant in pregnant women, around 11%, with the highest prevalence in pregnant women of Eastern European countries (31.5%). Findings have implications to guide vigilant public health awareness campaigns about the risk factors associated with developing GDM. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/], identifier CRD42020161857.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marília Silva Paulo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noor Motea Abdo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rita Bettencourt-Silva
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Minho, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Lusíadas Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Mezhal F, Oulhaj A, Abdulle A, AlJunaibi A, Alnaeemi A, Ahmad A, Leinberger-Jabari A, Al Dhaheri AS, Tuzcu EM, AlZaabi E, Al-Maskari F, Alanouti F, Alameri F, Alsafar H, Alblooshi H, Alkaabi J, Wareth LA, Aljaber M, Kazim M, Weitzman M, Al-Houqani M, Ali MH, Oumeziane N, El-Shahawy O, Al-Rifai RH, Scherman S, Shah SM, Loney T, Almahmeed W, Idaghdour Y, Ahmed LA, Ali R. The interrelationship and accumulation of cardiometabolic risk factors amongst young adults in the United Arab Emirates: The UAE Healthy Future Study. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2021; 13:140. [PMID: 34838113 PMCID: PMC8627022 DOI: 10.1186/s13098-021-00758-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Similar to other non-communicable diseases (NCDs), people who develop cardiovascular disease (CVD) typically have more than one risk factor. The clustering of cardiovascular risk factors begins in youth, early adulthood, and middle age. The presence of multiple risk factors simultaneously has been shown to increase the risk for atherosclerosis development in young and middle-aged adults and risk of CVD in middle age. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to address the interrelationship of CVD risk factors and their accumulation in a large sample of young adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS Baseline data was drawn from the UAE Healthy Future Study (UAEHFS), a volunteer-based multicenter study that recruits Emirati nationals. Data of participants aged 18 to 40 years was used for cross-sectional analysis. Demographic and health information was collected through self-reported questionnaires. Anthropometric data and blood pressure were measured, and blood samples were collected. RESULTS A total of 5126 participants were included in the analysis. Comorbidity analyses showed that dyslipidemia and obesity co-existed with other cardiometabolic risk factors (CRFs) more than 70% and 50% of the time, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of the risk factors with age and gender showed that all risk factors were highly associated with each other. The strongest relationship was found with obesity; it was associated with four-fold increase in the odds of having central obesity [adjusted OR 4.70 (95% CI (4.04-5.46)], and almost three-fold increase odds of having abnormal glycemic status [AOR 2.98 (95% (CI 2.49-3.55))], hypertension (AOR 3.03 (95% CI (2.61-3.52))] and dyslipidemia [AOR 2.71 (95% CI (2.32-3.15)]. Forty percent of the population accumulated more than 2 risk factors, and the burden increased with age. CONCLUSION In this young population, cardiometabolic risk factors are highly prevalent and are associated with each other, therefore creating a heavy burden of risk factors. This forecasts an increase in the burden of CVD in the UAE. The robust longitudinal design of the UAEHFS will enable researchers to understand how risk factors cluster before disease develops. This knowledge will offer a novel approach to design group-specific preventive measures for CVD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Mezhal
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
| | - Abderrahim Oulhaj
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Sciences and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Abdishakur Abdulle
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Abdulla Alnaeemi
- Department of Cardiology, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Amar Ahmad
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Ayesha S Al Dhaheri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - E Murat Tuzcu
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Eiman AlZaabi
- Department of Pathology, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Fatma Al-Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Fatme Alanouti
- College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Habiba Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Juma Alkaabi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Laila Abdel Wareth
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Marina Kazim
- Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, SEHA, Al-Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Micheal Weitzman
- Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Mohammad Al-Houqani
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Mohammad Hag Ali
- Department of Health Science, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Omar El-Shahawy
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Scott Scherman
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Syed M Shah
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE
| | - Wael Almahmeed
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Youssef Idaghdour
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Luai A Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, UAE
| | - Raghib Ali
- Public Health Research Center, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Ahmad T, Imran M, Ahmad K, Khan M, Baig M, Al-Rifai RH, Al-Omari B. A Bibliometric Analysis and Global Trends in Fascioliasis Research: A Neglected Tropical Disease. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3385. [PMID: 34944162 PMCID: PMC8698141 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Fascioliasis is a zoonotic neglected tropical disease caused by Fasciola hepatica and F. gigantica. In endemic regions, fascioliasis represents a huge problem in livestock production and significantly threatens public health. The present study was performed to assess the key bibliometric indicators, plot the global research outcome, and strive to find the research frontiers and trends in fascioliasis. Methods: A descriptive bibliometric and visualized study was conducted. The data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. The WoSCC was searched using key terms covering a wide range of synonyms related to the causative agent (Fasciola) and the disease (fascioliasis). The database search was performed for the period from the inception of WoSCC until 3 October 2021. The downloaded data were exported into VOSviewer software version 1.6.17 for Windows to construct co-authorship countries, keywords co-occurrence, bibliographic coupling sources, and citation and documents network visualization. Results: A total of 4165 documents were included in this bibliometric analysis. The included documents were published between the years 1913 and 2021 from 116 countries, mainly from the United States of America (USA) (n = 482, 11.6%). The most prolific year was 2018 (n = 108). The journal that attracted the most publications was Veterinary Parasitology (n = 324), while the most productive author in this area was Rondelaud D (n = 156). In terms of total link strength (TLS), the most influential country was Spain (TLS = 236), followed by the USA (TLS = 178). Conclusion: This study is of value for veterinarians, doctors, and researchers to explore insights into research frontiers and trends in research on fascioliasis. The number of publications on fascioliasis has increased over time. Above 35% of publications have been produced by the USA, France, England, and Spain. "Fasciola hepatica" and "cattle" were the most dominant and widely used keywords. Research collaboration should be established among the researchers from developing countries with developed countries to learn new advancements and effective control strategies for fascioliasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tauseef Ahmad
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China;
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 25289, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Kabir Ahmad
- Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Cerebral Diseases, Department of Physiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, China;
| | - Muhammad Khan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Hazara University Mansehra, Mansehra 21120, Pakistan;
| | - Mukhtiar Baig
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 25289, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirate University, Al Ain 15551, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Basem Al-Omari
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
- KU Research and Data Intelligence Support Center (RDISC) AW 8474000331, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi 127788, United Arab Emirates
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Karkaz I, Elbarazi I, Östlundh L, Paulo MS, Sheek-Hussein M, Al-Rifai RH, Ádám B. Sharps injuries and splash exposures among healthcare workers in Arab countries: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e052993. [PMID: 34620668 PMCID: PMC8499251 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sharps injuries, including needlestick injuries and splash exposures, constitute serious occupational health problems for healthcare workers, carrying the risk of bloodborne infections. However, data on such occupational incidents and their risk factors in healthcare settings are scarce and not systematically summarised in the Arab countries.The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to review published literature about sharps injuries and splash exposures of healthcare workers in Arab countries, with the objectives to determine the incidence and/or prevalence of these events, their identified risk factors and the applied preventive and postexposure prophylactic measures. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The protocol is developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol guidelines. A comprehensive presearch developed in January to March 2021 in the database PubMed will be followed by a systematic search of six, core medical and health science databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Africa-Wide Information in May 2021. The search will be performed without any filters or restrictions for publication years. Covidence systematic review tool will be used for document management, blinded screening and study selection. Two reviewers will independently screen the records, extract data and conduct risk of bias assessment. Results will be synthesised narratively in summary tables, and, if findings allow, meta-analysis will be conducted on the incidence and/or prevalence of sharps injuries and splash exposures, and on the effect size of risk factors. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The systematic review methodology does not require ethics approval due to the nature of the study design based only on published studies. The results of the systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal, disseminated to stakeholders and made publicly available. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021242416.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtisam Karkaz
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Linda Östlundh
- The National Medical Library, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Marília Silva Paulo
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Mohamud Sheek-Hussein
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Balázs Ádám
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
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Bashir MM, Maskari FA, Ahmed L, Al-Rifai RH. 1528Prospective Vs Retrospective Cohort Studies: Is a Consensus Needed? Int J Epidemiol 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab168.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Focus of Presentation
There is a confusion among epidemiologists, especially early-career epidemiologists, on the different definitions and use of prospective and retrospective cohort studies. There is a need for consensus by the expert community on this methodological dilemma.
Findings
Different Epidemiology experts define prospective and retrospective cohort studies differently. Most textbooks define prospective cohort study as one conducted when all the subjects are outcome-free while in retrospective cohort study, at least some of them have developed the outcomes, then researchers go back in time to study exposures. However, some experts define both study types based on the time of development of the research hypothesis or question in relation to data collection.
Some experts consider retrospective studies to be only from records. Meanwhile, some consider any follow up study to be prospective even if historical data is used.
These disparities in definitions lead to confusion among young epidemiologists. Some experts state that there is no need to differentiate between the two studies, however, we are aware of the possible bias and confounding that could occur from retrospective studies.
Conclusions/Implications
It has become essential for the expert community to address this methodological dilemma and to reach consensus on it. This could serve as a guide for young epidemiologists and ensure the uniformity of research worldwide.
Key messages
There are disparities in definitions and use of prospective and retrospective cohort studies. Hence, the expert community, especially the International Association of Epidemiology, should address this dilemma and reach a consensus to form standard guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mohammed Bashir
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Al Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Abstract
Abstract
Focus of Presentation
There has been a lot of confusion among epidemiologists, especially students and early career epidemiologists, on definitions of prospective and retrospective cohort studies versus the actual practice. Many retrospective studies are reported and reviewed as prospective studies, and this is expected to lead to drawing wrong conclusions from studies, as well as leading to the disruption of the evidence-based hierarchy especially when it comes to systematic reviews and meta-analysis. There is a need, therefore, for consensus by the expert community to clarify every aspect of this issue.
Findings
Most epidemiological textbooks define prospective cohort study as a type of cohort study where researchers develop and conduct the study on all subjects before they start developing outcomes while in retrospective cohort study, the researchers go back in time to study exposure history for subjects whom at least some of them have developed the outcomes.
Some experts, though, define both study types based on the time of development of the hypothesis or research question in relation to data collection. That is, those who develop the research question before data collection are considered to be conducting a prospective study and it is a retrospective study when developed after data collection (Miettinen, O.S. 1985).
In some cases, retrospective studies are defined as the cohort studies whose data collections are from the records or historical data, while prospective studies are when data are collected prospectively (Setia M.S. 2016).
Meanwhile, some experts consider any follow up study to be prospective even if historical data is used while they define retrospective studies as case control studies (Last, J.M. 2000, Doll, R. and Hill, A.B. 1954)
These disparities in definitions lead to confusion among young epidemiologists as to which study type, they are conducting. This leads to the question of how important it is to differentiate the two study types. Is it really necessary? Does it affect my study results?
Some experts are of the opinion that the need to differentiate between the two is minimal, as a retrospective cohort study conducted very well could be superior to an average prospective one in terms of evidence-based hierarchy. And due to the ambiguity and inconsistent nature of these labels, some even recommend abandoning the labels all together (Wylie C. E. 2015, Vandenbroucke, J.P. 1991).
However, we are aware that data collected in retrospective studies might be prone to issues like incomplete records, recall bias and confounding, thereby leading to decreased internal validity of studies. This could be averted if the same study were conducted retrospectively.
Conclusions/Implications
It has become apparent that it is very essential for the expert community to address this methodological issue in Epidemiology and try to reach some consensus on this matter with regards to whether these subdivisions should be maintained and if so, how they should be uniformly defined and also to have a standard uniform methodological guideline that could be used internationally. This could serve as a guide for young epidemiologists and could ensure the uniformity of research worldwide.
Key messages
There is a confusion, especially among young epidemiologist on the definitions and use of prospective and retrospective cohort studies
Expert community, especially the International Association of Epidemiology, should address these concerns and if possible, have a consensus to form a standard guideline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mohammed Bashir
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatma Al Maskari
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Luai Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Ahmed LA, Verlinden M, Alobeidli MA, Alahbabi RH, AlKatheeri R, Saddik B, Oulhaj A, Al-Rifai RH. Patterns of Tobacco Smoking and Nicotine Vaping among University Students in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18147652. [PMID: 34300103 PMCID: PMC8306162 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Various forms of tobacco smoking and nicotine vaping tools are available on the market. This study quantified the prevalence of and identified factors associated with patterns of smoking and nicotine vaping among university students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A cross-sectional sample of students enrolled in three public universities was surveyed. Self-reported current smoking and nicotine vaping were recorded. Of 1123 students, 81.7% completed the online survey (mean age, 20.7 ± 3.4 (SD) years; 70.7% females). The prevalence of current smoking was 15.1% while the prevalence of current nicotine vaping was nearly 4.0%. Among current smokers, 54.7% reported conventional smoking only, 15.1% reported nicotine vaping only, and 28.8% were poly-users. Conventional midwakh (47.5%), followed by conventional shisha/waterpipe (36.7%), conventional cigarettes (36.7%), electronic shisha/waterpipe (25.2%), and electronic cigarettes (24.5%), were most commonly reported by students. Students aged 20–25 years (adjusted odds ratios (aOR): 2.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.18–3.67) or >25 years (aOR: 4.24, 95% CI: 1.41–12.80) had higher odds of being current smokers compared to those aged 17–19 years. The male gender was also independently associated with higher odds of being a current smoker (aOR: 5.45, 95% CI: 3.31–8.97) as well as higher odds of smoking cigarettes, shisha, and midwakh, or nicotine vaping compared to being female. Of nicotine vaping users, 36.1% reported using nicotine vaping because they enjoyed the flavor and vaporizing experience and 34.4% used it to help them to quit smoking. A relatively high prevalence of self-reported smoking was reported among university students in the UAE. The findings also suggest that nicotine vaping use is relatively widespread, but still less common than traditional smoking. Vigilant and tailored university-based smoking control and preventive measures are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (L.A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Marina Verlinden
- Department of Psychology, College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 144534, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Mariam Ali Alobeidli
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.A.); (R.H.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Reem Hamad Alahbabi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.A.); (R.H.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Radeya AlKatheeri
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (M.A.A.); (R.H.A.); (R.A.)
| | - Basema Saddik
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Abderrahim Oulhaj
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (L.A.A.); (A.O.)
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates; (L.A.A.); (A.O.)
- Correspondence:
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Al-Bluwi GSM, AlNababteh AH, Östlundh L, Al-Shamsi S, Al-Rifai RH. Prevalence of Celiac Disease in Patients With Turner Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:674896. [PMID: 34222285 PMCID: PMC8247446 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.674896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Celiac disease (CD) is a multifactorial autoimmune disorder, and studies have reported that patients with Turner syndrome (TS) are at risk for CD. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the weighted prevalence of CD among patients with TS and determine the weighted strength of association between TS and CD. Methods: Studies published between January 1991 and December 2019 were retrieved from four electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Eligible studies were identified and relevant data were extracted by two independent reviewers following specific eligibility criteria and a data extraction plan. Using the random-effects model, the pooled, overall and subgroup CD prevalence rates were determined, and sources of heterogeneity were investigated using meta-regression. Results: Among a total of 1,116 screened citations, 36 eligible studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. Nearly two-thirds of the studies (61.1%) were from European countries. Of the 6,291 patients with TS who were tested for CD, 241 were diagnosed with CD, with a crude CD prevalence of 3.8%. The highest and lowest CD prevalence rates of 20.0 and 0.0% were reported in Sweden and Germany, respectively. The estimated overall weighted CD prevalence was 4.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.3–5.9, I2, 67.4%). The weighted serology-based CD prevalence in patients with TS (3.4%, 95% CI, 1.0–6.6) was similar to the weighted biopsy-based CD prevalence (4.8%; 95% CI, 3.4–6.5). The strength of association between TS and CD was estimated in only four studies (odds ratio 18.1, 95% CI, 1.82–180; odds ratio 4.34, 95% CI, 1.48–12.75; rate ratio 14, 95% CI, 1.48–12.75; rate ratio 42.5, 95% CI, 12.4–144.8). Given the lack of uniformity in the type of reported measures of association and study design, producing a weighted effect measure to evaluate the strength of association between TS and CD was unfeasible. Conclusion: Nearly 1 in every 22 patients with TS had CD. Regular screening for CD in patients with TS might facilitate early diagnosis and therapeutic management to prevent adverse effects of CD such as being underweight and osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada S M Al-Bluwi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Asma H AlNababteh
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Linda Östlundh
- National Medical Library, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saif Al-Shamsi
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Saha S, Al-Rifai RH, Saha S. Diabetes prevalence and mortality in COVID-19 patients: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2021; 20:939-950. [PMID: 33821206 PMCID: PMC8012080 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-021-00779-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are at high risk of fatal outcomes. This meta-analysis quantifies the prevalence of mortality among (1) diabetic and (2) non-diabetic, and (3) the prevalence of DM, in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. METHODS Published studies were retrieved from four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and medRxiv) and appraised critically utilizing the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's tool. Meta-analyses were performed using the random-effects model. The measures of heterogeneity were ascertained by I- squared (I 2 ) and Chi-squared (Chi 2 ) tests statistics. Predictors of heterogeneity were quantified using meta-regression models. RESULTS Of the reviewed 475 publications, 22 studies (chiefly case series (59.09 %)), sourcing data of 45,775 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, were deemed eligible. The weighted prevalence of mortality in hospitlized COVID-19 patients with DM (20.0 %, 95 % CI: 15.0-26.0; I 2 , 96.8 %) was 82 % (1.82-time) higher than that in non-DM patients (11.0 %, 95 % CI: 5.0-16.0; I 2 , 99.3 %). The prevalence of mortality among DM patients was highest in Europe (28.0 %; 95 % CI: 14.0-44.0) followed by the United States (20.0 %, 95 % CI: 11.0-32.0) and Asia (17.0 %, 95 % CI: 8.0-28.0). Sample size and severity of the COVID-19 were associated (p < 0.05) with variability in the prevalence of mortality. The weighted prevalence of DM among hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 20 % (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 15-25, I 2 , 99.3 %). Overall, the quality of the studies was fair. CONCLUSIONS Hospitalized COVID-19 patients were appreciably burdened with a high prevalence of DM. DM contributed to the increased risk of mortality among hospitalized COVID-19 patients compared to non-DM patients, particularly among critically ill patients. Registration: PROSPERO (registration no. CRD42020196589). SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-021-00779-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta Saha
- R. G. Kar Medical College, Kolkata, 700004 West Bengal India
| | - Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Dababneh EH, Saha S, Östlundh L, Al-Rifai RH, Oulhaj A. Impact of cardiac rehabilitation on mortality and morbidity in diabetic versus non-diabetic patients: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e047134. [PMID: 33849857 PMCID: PMC8051383 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-047134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) decreases the morbidity and mortality risk among patients with cardiac diseases; however, the impact of CR on patients with diabetes remains underexplored. This is a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis methodology to explore if the effect of CR on mortality and morbidity is the same in patients with type 2 diabetes compared with patients without diabetes. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Interventional and non-interventional studies comparing the effect of CR, for at least 1 month, on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular outcomes including fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction, revascularisation and rehospitalisation in adults with cardiac diseases will be deemed eligible for inclusion. Studies published between 1990 and 2020 will be searched in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, Scopus and in registries for randomised controlled trials. Eligible studies will be selected using the Covidence software, and their salient details regarding the design, population, tested interventions and outcomes of interest will be gathered. The quality of studies to be deemed eligible and reviewed will be assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's tools. The appraisal process will be based on the study design (interventional and non-interventional). In the meta-analysis step, the pooled effect of CR on the outcomes will be estimated. All meta-analyses will be done using the random-effects model approach (inverse-variance method). I2 and p value of χ2 statistics will guide the heterogeneity assessment. Subgroup analyses will also be performed. The small study effect will be investigated by generating the funnel plots. The symmetry of the latter will be tested by performing Egger's test. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The systematic review will use data from published literature; hence, no ethical approval will be required. Findings of the systematic review and meta-analysis will be published in peer-reviewed international journals and will be disseminated in local and international scientific meetings. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020148832.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Hanna Dababneh
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
- Academic Affairs, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Sumanta Saha
- R. G. Kar Medical College, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Linda Östlundh
- National Medical Library, United Arab Emirates University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Abderrahim Oulhaj
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
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Menon P, El-Sadig M, AB Khan M, Östlundh L, El-Deyarbi M, Al-Rifai RH, Grivna M. Risk factors associated with quad bike crashes: a protocol for systematic review of observational studies. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e044456. [PMID: 33820787 PMCID: PMC8030468 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Quad bikes are four-wheeled vehicles, driven off-road on uneven terrains by farmers for work or young adults for leisure. Quad bike accidental crashes result mostly due to the unique ecosystem of uneven terrain, where these unstable vehicles are commonly driven, in addition to numerous distinctive sociodemographic characteristics related to drivers. This is a protocol for a systematic review of observational studies from all geographical regions and demographic groups in the world to summarise the common risk factors relating to quad bike crashes. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A comprehensive search for the literature on quad bike crashes and related injuries will be conducted in six electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE and PsycINFO. Proquest Dissertation and Thesis, OpenGrey and BASE will be searched for grey literature. Five researchers will be involved in the screening, and the review of full text articles, using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Disagreements between reviewers will be resolved by discourse. Three researchers will help resolving conflicts that may arise during the screening process and will resolve eventual conflicts identified in the process with the help of the systematic review software 'Covidence' for automatic deduplication and blinded screening. Information on crashes leading to injuries and death, target population characteristics and risk factors involved will be extracted from eligible articles in addition to the assessment of the quality of the researched articles. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Since this is a systematic review of published literature, a formal ethical approval is not needed. Results of the review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and reports to the concerned authorities. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020170245.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preetha Menon
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Mohamed El-Sadig
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Moien AB Khan
- Department of Family Medicine, UAE University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Linda Östlundh
- National Medical Library, United Arab Emirates University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Marwan El-Deyarbi
- Department of Pharmacology, United Arab Emirates University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
| | - Michal Grivna
- Institute of Public Health, United Arab Emirates University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Al Ain, UAE
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Chaabna K, Dashzeveg D, Shagdarsuren T, Al-Rifai RH. Prevalence and genotype distribution of hepatitis C virus in Mongolia: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Infect Dis 2021; 105:377-388. [PMID: 33601031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection epidemiology in Mongolia. METHOD Publications on HCV antibody (Ab) and RNA prevalence, and/or genotypes/subtypes were systematically reviewed and reported following PRISMA guidelines. Random-effects meta-analyses and age adjustments were conducted to estimate the prevalence of Mongolians exposed to HCV (pooled HCV-Ab prevalence) by time period, sex, and at-risk populations; and to estimate the prevalence of chronically-infected HCV individuals. RESULTS The national pooled HCV-Ab prevalence was 12.3% in 2000-2009 and 11.2% in 2013. Sex-specific pooled prevalence appeared higher among females than males (14.0% versus 6.8%). Age-specific pooled prevalence significantly increased from 3.7% among children (aged 0-10 years) to 34.1% among people aged ≥50 years (p < 0.001). Among the adult general population (low-risk population), the national age-adjusted prevalence was 8.1%. Age-adjusted chronic infection prevalence in adults was 6.0%. Among healthcare workers, pooled prevalence was 18.0%. Among patients with liver diseases, pooled prevalence was 53.7%. Among individuals engaging in risky sexual behaviors, pooled prevalence was 11.1%. The identified circulating genotypes/subtypes were 1b (58.0%), 2a (21.7%), and 1a (20.2%). CONCLUSION The national HCV prevalence in Mongolia appeared to be among the highest worldwide. Higher prevalence in the clinical setting indicated potential ongoing HCV iatrogenic and occupational transmission. Additionally, HCV transmission in community settings should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima Chaabna
- Institute for Population Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Delgermaa Dashzeveg
- Global Health Entrepreneurship Department, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan; Head of Public Health Policy Implementation and Coordination, National Centre for Public Health, Ministry of Health, Mongolia
| | - Tserendulam Shagdarsuren
- Head of Public Health Policy Implementation and Coordination, National Centre for Public Health, Ministry of Health, Mongolia; Department of Mongolia and Healthy City Network of Mongolia, Mongolia
| | - Rami H Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Al-Rifai RH, Acuna J, Al Hossany FI, Aden B, Al Memari SA, Al Mazrouei SK, Ahmed LA. Epidemiological characterization of symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 cases and positivity in subsequent RT-PCR tests in the United Arab Emirates. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246903. [PMID: 33577582 PMCID: PMC7880695 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases could be symptomatic or asymptomatic. We (1) characterized and analyzed data collected from the first cohort of reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, according to the symptomatic state, and (2) identified factors associated with the symptomatic state. The association between the symptomatic state and testing positive in three subsequent RT-PCR testing rounds was also quantified. Between February 28 and April 8, 2020, 1,249 cases were reported. Sociodemographic characteristics, working status, travel history, and chronic comorbidities of 791 cases were analyzed according to the symptomatic state (symptomatic or asymptomatic). After the first confirmatory test, the results of three subsequent tests were analyzed. The mean age of the 791 cases was 35.6 ± 12.7 years (range: 1-81). Nearly 57.0% of cases were symptomatic. The two most frequent symptoms were fever (58.0%) and cough (41.0%). Symptomatic cases (mean age 36.3 ± 12.6 years) were significantly older than asymptomatic cases (mean age 34.5 ± 12.7 years). Compared with nonworking populations, working in public places (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.76, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.11-2.80), healthcare settings (aOR, 2.09, 95% CI: 1.01-4.31), or in the aviation and tourism sectors (aOR, 2.24, 95% CI: 1.14-4.40) was independently associated with the symptomatic state. Reporting at least one chronic comorbidity was also associated with symptomatic cases (aOR, 1.76, 95% CI: 1.03-3.01). Compared with asymptomatic cases, symptomatic cases had a prolonged duration of viral shedding and consistent odds of ≥2 positive COVID-19 tests result out of the three subsequent testing rounds. A substantial proportion of the diagnosed COVID-19 cases in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi were asymptomatic. Quarantining asymptomatic cases, implementing prevention measures, and raising awareness among populations working in high-risk settings are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Juan Acuna
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Bashir Aden
- Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | | - Luai A. Ahmed
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Al-Rifai RH, Loney T, Sheek-Hussein M, Zoughbor S, Ajab S, Olanda M, Al-Rasbi Z. Prevalence of, and Factors Associated with Intestinal Parasites in Multinational Expatriate Workers in Al Ain City, United Arab Emirates: An Occupational Cross-Sectional Study. J Immigr Minor Health 2021; 22:359-374. [PMID: 31250249 PMCID: PMC7066269 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-019-00903-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
To estimate the prevalence of, and identify factors associated with intestinal parasites (IPs) in expatriate workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). All expatriate workers (N = 115) in a conveniently selected workplace in the industrial district of Al Ain city were invited to participate in a cross-sectional study. Consenting workers completed an interviewer-led questionnaire and self-collected stool samples. Stool samples were microscopically and molecularly screened for the presence of IPs. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted. Overall, 102 (88.7%) workers participated in the survey and 84.3% provided stool samples. Over three-quarters (79.4%) of workers were living in labour accommodation, 76.0% were sharing a bedroom with ≥ 4 workers, 80.2% were sharing a toilet with > 5 other people. Fifteen species of IPs were identified. Microscopically, 17.4% of the screened stool samples were positive for at least one parasite. Entamoeba species was the most common (8.1%) followed by Cryptosporidium species (3.5%). Thirty-six (41.8%) of the tested stool samples were positive for at least one parasite by molecular testing. The most prevalent parasite was Cryptosporidium species (16.3%) followed by Enterobius vermicularis (14.0%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (5.8%). Overall, 47.8% of the tested expatriate workers were positive for at least one IP, microscopically or molecularly. Educational attainment was negatively associated with being positive for at least one IP. IPs were very common amongst expatriate workers in Al Ain city. Efficacious and cost-effective public health interventions are required to reduce the burden of, and prevent the onward transmission of IPs in the UAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami H. Al-Rifai
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, PO Box 505055, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamud Sheek-Hussein
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sumaya Zoughbor
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Suad Ajab
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marie Olanda
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zakeya Al-Rasbi
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 17666, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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