40 results on '"Grech S"'
Search Results
2. The impact of Covid-19 on symptomatic back pain – A new surging epidemic?
- Author
-
Cuschieri, S, primary and Grech, S, additional
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. Investigation of the Effectiveness of a Preseason Strength and Conditioning 'Prehab' Program for Collegiate Athletes: A Pilot Study
- Author
-
Bandy E, Goff D, Myers S, Quach W, Kachingwe A, Xiao D, and Grech S
- Subjects
medicine.medical_specialty ,Basketball ,biology ,Athletes ,business.industry ,biology.organism_classification ,Test (assessment) ,Vertical jump ,Sample size determination ,Physical therapy ,medicine ,Plyometrics ,Range of motion ,business ,Balance (ability) - Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of a preseason strength and conditioning “Prehab” program on decreasing non-contact injuries and improving outcome measures of strength, agility, and balance in collegiate men’s and women’s basketball players, men’s and women’s soccer players, and women’s volleyball players. Methods: Forty-five National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes participated. Participants performed a 10- week Prehab program consisting of five progressive levels advancing every two weeks. Exercises included lumbopelvic stabilization, scapular stabilization, plyometric training, and sport specific exercises. Test measures were taken before and after the Prehab intervention. Outcome measures included vertical jump height, number of push-ups, front/lateral plank time, single limb stance time, back extensor endurance time, thoracic spine rotation range of motion, number of single leg squats, Cross Hop test, Single Leg Crossover test, and closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability test (CKCUEST), as well as the number of non-contact injuries.Results: After completion of the Prehab program, participants showed significant improvement in vertical jump height, number of push-ups, front/lateral plank time, single limb stance time on the right, back extensor endurance time, thoracic spine rotation to the left, Single Leg Crossover test, and CKCUEST. Additionally, all other outcome measures showed a trend toward improvement. Participants experienced a total of 42 inseason repetitive stress injuries in the intervention year and 38 in the year after the intervention. Conclusion: Participation in the “Prehab” program led to a reduced number of in-season non-contact injuries and significant improvements in 9 of the 11 outcomes measures of strength, agility, and balance in collegiate athletes. The lack of significance in some of the outcome measures may be due to the small sample size. A repeat of this study using a randomized-control design with a larger sample size may yield more significant results.
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
4. Nanoporous metal film: An energy-dependent transmission device for electron waves.
- Author
-
Grech, S., Degiovanni, A., Lapena, L., and Morin, R.
- Subjects
- *
ELECTRON beams , *PARTICLES (Nuclear physics) , *METALLIC films , *ELECTRON emission , *FIELD emission , *FLUCTUATIONS (Physics) - Abstract
We measure electron transmission through free-standing ultrathin nanoporous gold films, using the coherent electron beam emitted by sharp field emission tips in a low energy electron projection microscope setup. Transmission coefficient versus electron wavelength plots show periodic oscillations between 75 and 850 eV. These oscillations result from the energy dependence of interference between paths through the gold and paths through the nanometer-sized pores of the film. We reveal that these films constitute high transmittance quantum devices acting on electron waves through a wavelength-dependent complex transmittance defined by the porosity and the thickness of the film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Quality-of-life following implant-based vs DIEP-flap breast reconstruction: An Australian Perspective.
- Author
-
Grech, S.
- Subjects
MAMMAPLASTY ,QUALITY of life - Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
6. Discussion On Malta Fever
- Author
-
Bruce, D., Bassett-Smith, P. W., Hutton, G. A., Grech, S., Clarkson, T. H. F., and Preston
- Published
- 1904
7. Towards a ‘mind map’ for evaluative thinking in Community Based Rehabilitation: reflections and learning. Disability & the Global South
- Author
-
Weber, J, Grech, S, and Polack, S
- Published
- 2016
8. Compression of the Superior Vena Cava by an Interatrial Septal Lipoma: A Case Report
- Author
-
Grech, R., Mizzi, A., and Grech, S.
- Subjects
stomatognathic diseases ,Article Subject ,cardiovascular system - Abstract
Primary cardiac tumours are rare; their prevalence ranges from 0.0017% to 0.28% in various autopsy series. Cardiac lipomas are well-encapsulated benign tumours typically composed of mature fat cells, and their reported size ranges from 1 to 15 cm. They are usually seen in the left ventricle and the right atrium. Lipomas are true neoplasms, as opposed to lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum, which is a nonencapsulated hyperplastic accumulation of mature and foetal adipose tissue. Cardiac lipomas occur in patients of all ages, and the frequency of occurrence has been found to be equal in both sexes. Patients are usually asymptomatic, although the manifestation of symptoms depends upon both size and location of the tumour. We present the case of a patient with an interatrial septal lipoma, causing obstruction of the superior vena cava.
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
9. Intracranial Calcifications
- Author
-
Grech, R., primary, Grech, S., additional, and Mizzi, A., additional
- Published
- 2012
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
10. Towards Service Continuity in Emerging Heterogeneous Mobile Networks.
- Author
-
Grech, S., Haverinen, H., and Devarapalli, V.
- Published
- 2006
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
11. Implications of Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) for GSM security.
- Author
-
Grech, S. and Eronen, P.
- Published
- 2005
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
12. Towards music download and radio broadcast convergence in mobile communications networks.
- Author
-
Grech, S. and Luukkainen, S.
- Published
- 2005
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
13. Intracranial Calcifications: A Pictorial Review.
- Author
-
Grech, R., Grech, S., and Mizzi, A.
- Published
- 2012
14. Proposed algorithm for the management of athletes with athletic pubalgia (sports hernia): a case series.
- Author
-
Kachingwe AF and Grech S
- Abstract
STUDY DESIGN: A case series of 6 athletes with a suspected sports hernia. BACKGROUND: Groin pain in athletes is common, and 1 source of groin pain is athletic pubalgia, or a sports hernia. Description of this condition and its management is scarce in the physical therapy literature. The purpose of this case series is to describe a conservative approach to treating athletes with a likely sports hernia and to provide physical therapists with an algorithm for managing athletes with this dysfunction. CASE DESCRIPTION: Six collegiate athletes (age range, 19-22 years; 4 males, 2 females) with a physician diagnosis of groin pain secondary to possible/probable sports hernia were referred to physical therapy. A method of evaluation was constructed and a cluster of 5 key findings indicative of a sports hernia is presented. The athletes were managed according to a proposed algorithm and received physical therapy consisting of soft tissue and joint mobilization/manipulation, neuromuscular re-education, manual stretching, and therapeutic exercise. OUTCOMES: Three of the athletes received conservative intervention and were able to fully return to sport after a mean of 7.7 sessions of physical therapy. The other 3 athletes reached this outcome after surgical repair and a mean of 6.7 sessions of physical therapy. DISCUSSION: Conservative management including manual therapy appears to be a viable option in the management of athletes with a sports hernia. Follow-up randomized clinical trials should be performed to further investigate the effectiveness of conservative rehabilitation compared to a homogeneous group of patients undergoing surgical repair for this condition. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, level 4.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2008;38(12):768-781, published online 19 September 2008. doi:10.2519/jospt.2008.2846. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2008
15. Osteoporotic hip fractures - Three-year follow-up mortality rate in Malta
- Author
-
Grech, S. and Sarah Cuschieri
- Subjects
Osteoporosis -- Malta ,Hip fractures -- Malta -- Case studies ,Surgery -- Complications -- Malta ,Mortality -- Malta ,Surgery -- Risk factors -- Malta -- Case studies - Abstract
Introduction: Primary osteoporosis is a major factor in fragility hip fractures. The index fracture is loaded with morbidity and increased mortality in these very fragile patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the mortality rate after 3 months, 1 year and 3 years post hip fracture with possible identification of any relationship between different hip fracture types and mortality. Method: A retrospective analysis of all hip fracture patients admitted to Mater Dei Hospital, from January to December 2011 was performed. Data was gathered from the operating theatre notes, the patient archiving and communication system and the electronic case summary software. The mortality data was achieved from the National Mortality Registry. Statistical analysis was performed. Results: Out of 281 patients with a hip fracture, 47% died (mortality group) within 3 years with a female predominance (68.9%). Within the mortality group, sustaining an intertrochanteric fracture exhibited a statistical difference between the females and males. Within 90 days of a hip fracture, the mortality rate was of 12.8% with the majority of the patients sustaining an intertrochanteric. The median survival period following hip fractures was 190 days for subcapital, 297 days for intertrochanteric and 427 days for subtrochanteric fractures. Conclusion: The mortality rate in our study compares well with the published results of similar studies. A team effort aimed at giving the best possible care and minimize the morbidity and mortality should be endeavored. This should encompass the whole pathway, starting with prevention and finishing with appropriate community care after hospital discharge., peer-reviewed
16. Outcome of low back pain patients referred to orthopeadic outpatient clinic
- Author
-
Sarah Cuschieri, Grech, S., and Borg, J.
- Subjects
Orthopedics -- Ambulatory Care -- Malta -- Evaluation ,Primary health care -- Malta ,Backache -- Treatment - Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal complaints are the commonest encounters in primary care. Low back pain management is commonly initiated by the family practitioner. Guidelines are limited as to when patients should be referred for specialist treatment by the orthopaedic department. Objectives: Evaluate the justification of low back pain referrals to Orthopedic outpatients (OOP), Mater Dei Hospital, Malta and assess whether these merited specialist consultation. Method: Anonymous data was collected over a 3- month period, where 100 low back pain new case referrals were evaluated during OOP. Data collection was based on routine questions normally brought forward during a consultation and a management plan which was documented in a spreadsheet. Data was analyzed using the same software. Results: Out of the total number of patients reviewed, 57 had been referred for the first time to OOP. Out of these, only 10 required an MRI with a scheduled follow up appointment. The remainder were referred for physiotherapy or pain clinic and discharged to follow-up in the community by the primary care physician. Out of 43 patients who had had previous OOP appointments complaining of lower back pain, 5 patients required an MRI and follow up appointment, remainder were discharged with physiotherapy or pain clinic appointments. Conclusion: The majority of patients seen at OOP could have been managed in primary care. It reflects the importance of developing local management guidelines for low back pain, which would assist general practitioners. It is indicative that referral to OOP should only be triggered when all treatment options available in the primary care are exhausted. This would lead to patients achieving targeted treatment timely within the community, resulting in shorter waiting time for outpatient visits., peer-reviewed
17. Towards Service Continuity in Emerging Heterogeneous Mobile Networks
- Author
-
Grech, S., primary, Haverinen, H., additional, and Devarapalli, V., additional
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
18. Towards music download and radio broadcast convergence in mobile communications networks
- Author
-
Grech, S., primary and Luukkainen, S., additional
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
19. Advancing disability-inclusive climate research and action, climate justice, and climate-resilient development.
- Author
-
Stein PJS, Stein MA, Groce N, Kett M, Akyeampong EK, Alford WP, Chakraborty J, Daniels-Mayes S, Eriksen SH, Fracht A, Gallegos L, Grech S, Gurung P, Hans A, Harpur P, Jodoin S, Lord JE, Macanawai SS, McClain-Nhlapo CV, Mezmur BD, Moore RJ, Muñoz Y, Patel V, Pham PN, Quinn G, Sadlier SA, Shachar C, Smith MS, and Van Susteren L
- Subjects
- Humans, Human Rights, Mental Health, Climate Change, Resilience, Psychological, Persons with Disabilities
- Abstract
Globally, more than 1 billion people with disabilities are disproportionately and differentially at risk from the climate crisis. Yet there is a notable absence of climate policy, programming, and research at the intersection of disability and climate change. Advancing climate justice urgently requires accelerated disability-inclusive climate action. We present pivotal research recommendations and guidance to advance disability-inclusive climate research and responses identified by a global interdisciplinary group of experts in disability, climate change, sustainable development, public health, environmental justice, humanitarianism, gender, Indigeneity, mental health, law, and planetary health. Climate-resilient development is a framework for enabling universal sustainable development. Advancing inclusive climate-resilient development requires a disability human rights approach that deepens understanding of how societal choices and actions-characterised by meaningful participation, inclusion, knowledge diversity in decision making, and co-design by and with people with disabilities and their representative organisations-build collective climate resilience benefiting disability communities and society at large while advancing planetary health., Competing Interests: Declaration of interests We declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an Open Access article under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
20. The punctum sign in epidermal cyst.
- Author
-
Borg Grech S, Mintoff D, and Scerri L
- Subjects
- Humans, Epidermal Cyst diagnosis, Lacrimal Apparatus
- Abstract
Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
21. A glimpse into Long COVID characteristics and the mental health impact within a highly vaccinated population: a Malta observational study.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S, Grech S, and Grech V
- Subjects
- Adult, Male, Humans, Female, Mental Health, Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome, Depression epidemiology, Malta epidemiology, Anxiety epidemiology, COVID-19 epidemiology
- Abstract
Background: Post-acute COVID-19 consequences are gaining global recognition. This study explores Long COVID characteristics and associated mental health impact/s among the highly vaccinated adult population of Malta., Methods: A social media survey gathered demographics, vaccination, and COVID-19 data. Generalised Anxiety Disorder and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 assessment tools were used for anxiety and depression. Quantitative analyses were performed., Results: 41% reported Long COVID, mostly female, 30-39 years, absence of chronic disease/s and vaccinated. Shortness of breath commonest persistent symptom among males, and fatigue for females. Significantly higher depression scores were present in Long COVID cohort compared to no persistent symptoms (p=0.001) and never acquiring COVID-19 (p=<0.01). A significant higher anxiety scores was present for Long COVID cohort than never acquiring COVID-19 (p=<0.01)., Conclusions: Long COVID occurs even in healthy individuals and vaccinated, while exacerbating mental health burdens. Urgent action is required to manage Long COVID and preventing the sequela.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
22. A sinister case of alopecia in a middle-aged woman.
- Author
-
Borg Grech S, Pisani D, Degaetano J, and Boffa MJ
- Subjects
- Female, Humans, Middle Aged, Alopecia
- Abstract
Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
23. A cross-sectional study exploring the Covid-19 vaccination landscape in Malta through social media: An insight into experiences, attitudes, and perspectives.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S, Grech S, and Grech V
- Abstract
Background and Aims: Covid-19 vaccines were disseminated across Europe from the end of 2020. Malta had one of the fastest vaccination rollouts in Europe and by March 2022 most adults had their booster dose. The aim was to investigate adult's perspectives, experiences, and attitudes regarding vaccination in Malta., Methods: An anonymous online survey targeting adult social media users living in Malta was disseminated through social media, with a snowball technique. Demographic information, vaccination uptake, side-effects, perceptions, and experiences were gathered through quantitative and qualitative means. Participants were sub-grouped according to their vaccination status and descriptive analysis through frequency was performed. χ
2 /Fisher test testing followed by logistic regressions were performed to assess the vaccination perspectives according to vaccination status., Results: Out of 611 participants 79.87% had the booster, 4.91% had two doses awaiting booster, 6.55% refused booster while, 8.67% refused any dose. Booster sub-group when compared to vaccine hesitant sub-group exhibited an association with the perception for the need to "continue wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and hand washing following vaccination" (odds ratio [OR]: 5.97 confidence interval [CI] 95%: 1.09-32.36 p = 0.04). Those waiting for the booster dose when compared to those refusing booster, exhibited an association with the perspective that "COVID-19 vaccine is the solution to returning to normality" (OR: 5.00 CI 95%: 1.12-22.35 p = 0.04). The commonest reason for inoculation was to protect against severe disease (63.08% CI 95%: 58.91-67.07). More pronounced booster adverse effects raised concern about future booster doses uptake. Unwillingness among anti-booster and vaccine hesitant arose among high socioeconomic background participants, with concern for vaccine safety and adverse effects., Conclusion: Vaccine hesitancy is low yet, vaccination unwillingness even among highly educated may act as a barrier to control the pandemic. Clear, transparent public health communication which targets concerns is crucial, with unified messages from governing bodies optimizing population safety., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2022 The Authors. Health Science Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
24. Assessing the impact of the four COVID-19 variants and the vaccine coverage on mortality in Malta over 2 years: An observational case study.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S, Grech S, and Grech V
- Subjects
- Humans, Malta epidemiology, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 epidemiology, COVID-19 prevention & control, Vaccines
- Abstract
Background: Mortality may quantify a population's disease burden. Malta, like other European countries, experienced COVID-19 surges in cases and mortality across the pandemic. This study assesses COVID-19's mortality impact, while exploring the effects of the four dominant COVID-19 variants and that of the vaccination coverage on the Maltese population., Methods: COVID-19 data (cases, mortality, positivity, and vaccination rates) was obtained from the websites of the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control and the Malta Ministry of Health. Data was categorized into the four periods according to reported dominant COVID-19 variant. Years of life lost (YLL) and Case-Fatality-Ratio (CFR) for each period were estimated. CFR was also estimated for the pre-vaccine and post-vaccine periods., Results: The original COVID-19 period (36 weeks) had the highest YLL (4,484), followed by the Omicron variant period (12 weeks; 1,398). The Alpha variant period (7 weeks) had the highest CFR (1.89%) followed by the Original COVID-19 (1.35%). The pre-vaccine (1.59%) period had higher CFR than the post-vaccine period (0.67%)., Conclusion: Various factors contributed to mortality, but the variant's infectivity, transmissibility, and the effectiveness of the vaccine against the variant play an important role. Reducing mortality by embracing mass vaccination that targets current variants along with other non-pharmaceutical interventions remains paramount., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Cuschieri, Grech and Grech.)
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
25. A Year of COVID-19 Pandemic Roller-Coaster: The Malta Experience, Lessons Learnt, and the Future.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S, Grech S, and Grech V
- Subjects
- Adult, Humans, COVID-19 Vaccines, Pandemics prevention & control, Malta epidemiology, Learning, Vaccination, COVID-19 epidemiology, COVID-19 prevention & control
- Abstract
Objective: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a global impact. The study explores the various COVID-19 experiences in Malta over the past year and provides a snapshot of acute and post-acute COVID-19 symptoms, as well as national vaccination roll-out and hesitancy., Methods: Data on medical access, lifestyle habits, acute and post-acute COVID-19 symptoms, and vaccination hesitancy was gathered through a social media survey targeting adults of Malta. COVID-19 data were gathered from the Malta Ministry of Health COVID-19 dashboard., Results: Malta controlled COVID-19 spread exceptionally well initially. Since August 2020, the positivity rate, mortality, and hospital admission rates saw a fluctuating incline. From COVID-19 onset, a decrease in physical activity and an increase in body weight was reported. Most participants acquiring COVID-19 were asymptomatic but nontrivial proportion experienced post-acute symptoms. The majority opted to take the COVID-19 vaccine with only a minority expressing safety concerns., Conclusions: Malta has experienced roller coaster events over a year. The population faced elevated levels of morbidity, mortality, and economic hardship along with negative and positive risk-associated behaviors. Vaccination in combination with population adherence to social distancing, mask wearing, and personal hygiene are expected to be the beacons of hope in the coming months.
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
26. An observational study of the Covid-19 situation following the first pan-European mass sports event.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S, Grech S, and Cuschieri A
- Subjects
- Europe epidemiology, Humans, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 epidemiology, Sports
- Abstract
Background: All events in Europe, including EURO2020 football championship, were postponed due to Covid-19 in 2020. Instead, Euro2020 took place in 2021, as mitigation measures were relaxed, cross-country mobility increased and the Delta variant was spreading across Europe. This study explored the possibility of an increased Covid-19 spread across Europe following EURO2020 matches., Methods: Covid-19 data on cases, vaccination and delta variant for participating countries, host cities/regions and neighbouring countries, for May till July 2021, were obtained from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Our World in Data, Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Dashboard and the UK Government website. EURO2020 data were obtained from the Union of European Football Associations official website., Results: A general increase in Covid-19 positivity trend in Europe was observed following a week of EURO2020 matches across most countries and host cities. A similar trend was observed for the Delta variant sample positivity rate. The increased incidence was mostly among the young generation (<49 years). A decline in positive cases was observed on a national level for most countries following the Finals match., Conclusion: The EURO2020 was an anticipated mass sports event, and it was the first-time spectators were allowed to enter stadiums in Europe. Stadiums instituted several mitigations to safeguard the spectators although reports of transmission were still present. The major challenges were the gatherings outside the stadiums that might have contributed to these observations. Targeted restrictions might be required during mass sport events especially in the presence of highly transmissible variant(s) and low vaccination rates among the young generation., (© 2022 Stichting European Society for Clinical Investigation Journal Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
27. Back pain: An aftermath of Covid-19 pandemic? A Malta perspective.
- Author
-
Grech S, Borg JN, and Cuschieri S
- Subjects
- Adult, Back Pain epidemiology, Humans, Malta epidemiology, SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 epidemiology, Pandemics
- Abstract
Background: Back pain is the commonest musculoskeletal complaint across the world. The Covid-19 pandemic led to mitigating measures including remote working that enhanced a sedentary lifestyle. The aim of this study was to investigate whether back pain complaints have increased from pre-Covid-19 to during the Covid-19 period among the adult population of Malta, while exploring the possible contributing factors., Methods: An online survey was distributed through social media targeting the adult population of Malta. Questions on sociodemographic data, occurrence of back pain pre-Covid-19 and since the onset of Covid-19 was gathered, along with changes in behavioural attitudes, daily routine and physical activity. Descriptive and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed., Results: Out of the 388 responders, 30% experienced chronic back pain pre-Covid-19, 49% experienced back pain since Covid-19, with the majority of the latter claiming that they never experienced back pain before Covid-19. Significant changes were present in daily routine and physical activity (PA) patterns. Indeed, continuously sitting down (OR: 15.53; p ≤ 0.01), no PA (OR: 4.22; p ≤ <0.01), once a week PA (OR: 5.74; p ≤ <0.01), two to three times PA a week (OR: 2.58; p = 0.05) and four to five PA a week (OR: 3.46; p = 0.02) were associated with experiencing new onset back pain since the onset of Covid-19, when adjusted for sex, age, education and employment status., Conclusion: The pandemic has changed population behaviour resulting in an enhanced back pain occurrence. This is anticipated to impact the individual's disability adjusted life years as well as increase the burden on the economy and healthcare services. A designated multidisciplinary action plan is recommended to reduce back pain impact., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
28. Superficial Granulomatous Pyoderma Successfully Treated with Intravenous Immunoglobulin.
- Author
-
Borg Grech S, Vella Baldacchino A, Corso R, Pisani D, and Boffa MJ
- Abstract
Superficial granulomatous pyoderma is a relatively rare variant of pyoderma gangrenosum, characterized by superficial ulceration with a vegetative margin and a clean granulating base. Ulcers in superficial granulomatous pyoderma are typically located on the trunk and may follow minor trauma. It may be misdiagnosed as classic pyoderma gangrenosum, despite having distinct characteristics. Here we report a case of superficial granulomatous pyoderma successfully treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg)., Learning Points: Superficial granulomatous pyoderma is a rare variant of pyoderma gangrenosum.Histopathological and clinical characteristics of superficial granulomatous pyoderma are distinct from those of classic pyoderma gangrenosum.Superficial granulomatous pyoderma is often slow-growing and is only rarely linked to underlying systemic disease.IVIg may be an effective treatment option for superficial granulomatous pyoderma., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interests: The authors declare there are no competing interests., (© EFIM 2021.)
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
29. An Analysis of the Educational Environment at the Malta Foundation Programme Using the Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM).
- Author
-
Grech M and Grech S
- Abstract
Background: Learning from managing patients in a real-world context is by far superior to simulation learning. A substandard educational environment is associated with poor patient care and suboptimal learning outcomes. The measurement of the educational environment provides insight into what is needed to improve the level of training., Objective: To measure the educational environment as perceived by trainees within the Malta Foundation Programme., Methods: This study used the Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM) to measure the educational environment at the Malta Foundation Programme. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the demographics of the study population. Nonparametric comparative statistics were used to identify statistically significant differences between groups., Results: Ninety-eight trainees out of 370 (26.5%) completed the online questionnaire. These consisted of 39 FY1s (31.5% of 124), 33 FY2s (24.8% of 133), and 26 extended FYs (23.0% of 113). The 40-item PHEEM showed good reliability with a Cronbach's α value of .912. These doctors perceived their educational environment as more positive than negative. Perceptions are worst among trainees at the end of their first year of training. Those who had just finished their training have reported better perceptions. The 3 worst scoring items are related to when the trainees are on call., Conclusion: Among trainees within the Malta Foundation Programme, perceptions of role autonomy and social support are areas where most work is needed. Teaching seems to be moving in the right direction, but there is always room for improvement., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2021.)
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
30. Low-Level Anorectal HIV Shedding despite Effective Antiretroviral Therapy Is Not Driven by Mucosal Inflammation.
- Author
-
Choi Y, Grech S, Mohammadi A, Perry MC, Huibner S, Sano M, Weiss E, Coburn B, Salit I, and Kaul R
- Subjects
- HIV Infections virology, Homosexuality, Male, Humans, Lymphocyte Activation drug effects, Male, Microbiota drug effects, Middle Aged, RNA, Ribosomal, 16S genetics, RNA, Viral genetics, Sexual and Gender Minorities, Viral Load drug effects, Virus Shedding genetics, Anti-Retroviral Agents therapeutic use, HIV Infections drug therapy, Inflammation virology, Virus Shedding drug effects
- Abstract
Although antiretroviral treatment (ART) suppresses HIV RNA in blood and prevents transmission, low-level anorectal HIV RNA shedding persists in some ART-treated men who have sex with men. We collected anorectal biopsies and swabs from 55 men who have sex with men on effective ART, hypothesizing that anorectal shedding would be linked to microbiota-driven mucosal T cell activation. Lymphocytes were assessed by flow cytometry, soluble immune factors by multiplex immunoassay, neutrophils and epithelial integrity by immunofluorescence microscopy, and the anorectal microbiome by quantitative PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Unexpectedly, we found no evidence that anorectal HIV shedding was associated with the parameters of mucosal inflammation, including T cell activation, inflammatory cytokines, the density of neutrophils, or epithelial integrity. Moreover, the anorectal bacterial load was actually lower in the shedding group, with no major differences in bacterial composition. Instead, the strongest mucosal immune correlates of HIV shedding were an increase in central memory cell frequency and Ki67 expression as well as higher concentrations of the cytokine IL-7 in anorectal secretions. Anorectal HIV RNA shedding during effective ART was not driven by local inflammation; the associations seen with local homeostatic T cell proliferation will require further confirmation., (Copyright © 2021 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.)
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
31. Insight into the Occurrence of Common Non-communicable Diseases at a Population Level and the Potential Impact During the Coronavirus Pandemic - a Need for a Syndemic Healthcare Approach?
- Author
-
Cuschieri S and Grech S
- Abstract
People suffering from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are at an increased risk for severe Covid-19. The aim was to determine the burden of common NCDs at a population level, assess Covid-19 impact while exploring whether a syndemic approach is merited to deal with NCDs and Covid-19. Baseline data from a Malta national representative survey. Individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), hypertension, cardiovascular disease, dyslipidaemia and overweight-obese status were considered. Prevalence for single disease and multimorbidity were used to estimate population burden. Covid-19 impact at a population level was estimated through local Covid-19 infectivity rates. Years of life lost (YLL) and mortality rate were calculated using Covid-19 data and compared to corresponding NCDs data reported by global burden of disease (GBD) study. Half the study population ( n = 3947) had a single NCD while a third had multimorbidity. Of these, 6.55% were estimated to be at risk of Covid-19 and require admission. Covid-19 YLL over 12 months was 5228.54 years, which is higher than the estimated YLL for hypertension and T2DM by GBD study for Malta. Health systems and policies should be re-focused to accommodate both Covid-19 and NCDs simultaneously through a targeted syndemic approach with primary healthcare playing a central role., Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42399-021-01064-2., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors declare no competing interests., (© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2021.)
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. COVID-19: a one-way ticket to a global childhood obesity crisis?
- Author
-
Cuschieri S and Grech S
- Abstract
Obesity is a global epidemic based on three major pillars of (i) genetic (ii) behavioural and (iii) environmental determinants. The latter two pillars have been challenged during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic across all population age groups including children. The closure of schools resulted in decreased organised physical activity, increase in sedentary lifestyle and screen time with the possibility of stress-induced indulgence in high calorie dense and sugary foods, resulting in higher susceptibility to weight gain. The uncertainty faced by many Northern Hemisphere governments as the new scholastic year looms closer whether to open schools again or not further enhances the stress on the children and their family. Re-opening of schools is beneficial for children's mental and physical health, and general wellbeing including the 'combating' of the childhood obesity epidemic. The family unit has also been challenged during this pandemic especially if the parent/s suffered redundancy. There have been attempts at seeing a silver lining as some families have embraced lockdowns as a means to strengthen their family bonds, increase homemade meals apart from the various virtual opportunities that were streamed on social media to encourage children to perform physical activity at home or in safe environments. However, curbing the viral spread while protecting population health will remain top priority until an effective COVID-19 vaccine is available. It is imperative to address other co-existing problems such as childhood obesity, which if uncontrolled may have a long-term profound health and economic consequence of higher eminence than the actual COVID-19 infection. The prevention and management of childhood obesity should be set as a priority at an individual, community and population level during this pandemic., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestNone to declare., (© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.)
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
33. Obesity population at risk of COVID-19 complications.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S and Grech S
- Subjects
- COVID-19 physiopathology, Diet statistics & numerical data, Female, Humans, Life Style, Male, Mental Health, Obesity physiopathology, Quarantine statistics & numerical data, Respiration, Artificial statistics & numerical data, Risk Factors, Sedentary Behavior, Vulnerable Populations statistics & numerical data, Body Mass Index, COVID-19 epidemiology, Obesity epidemiology, Severity of Illness Index
- Abstract
Introduction: Global public health is challenged by two concurrent epidemics; COVID-19 and obesity. Considering the global prevalence of obesity, exploring relationships with COVID-19 are of clinical importance. The aim was to provide a comprehensive summary and recommendations on this relationship between COVID-19 and obesity., Method: A literature search was performed to prepare a narrative review of COVID-19 and obesity., Results: An obesity state promotes chronic inflammation, vitamin D deficiency, hinders immunity and causes mechanical lung compression. These increase susceptibilities to COVID-19 infection, complications including the requirement of invasive ventilation. Existing co-morbidities enhances these complications. Preventive measures of social distancing and self-isolation may increase stigmatisation and psychological deterrents. Hence, special recommendations targeting this vulnerable population are required., Conclusion: The obese population is a COVID-19 vulnerable group, requiring special attention during this pandemic to avoid complications and healthcare systems burden. Lacking COVID-19 vaccination, regular physical activity and a healthy diet are recommended with attention to mental health. A prolonged quarantine duration and administration of prophylactic vitamin D may be considered., Competing Interests: Author SC and SG declare none., (© The Author(s) 2020.)
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. COVID-19 and diabetes: The why, the what and the how.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S and Grech S
- Subjects
- COVID-19, Humans, SARS-CoV-2, Betacoronavirus, Coronavirus Infections epidemiology, Coronavirus Infections prevention & control, Diabetes Mellitus epidemiology, Diabetes Mellitus therapy, Pandemics prevention & control, Pneumonia, Viral epidemiology, Pneumonia, Viral prevention & control
- Abstract
Background: The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has taken the world by storm. Alongside COVID-19, diabetes is a long-standing global epidemic. The diabetes population has been reported to suffer adverse outcomes if infected by COVID-19. The aim was to summarise information and resources available on diabetes and COVID-19, highlighting special measures that individuals with diabetes need to follow., Methods: A search using keywords "COVID-19" and "Diabetes" was performed using different sources, including PubMed and World Health Organization., Results: COVID-19 may enhance complications in individuals with diabetes through an imbalance in angiotension-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activation pathways leading to an inflammatory response. ACE2 imbalance in the pancreas causes acute β-cell dysfunction and a resultant hyperglycemic state. These individuals may be prone to worsened COVID-19 complications including vasculopathy, coagulopathy as well as psychological stress. Apart from general preventive measures, remaining hydrated, monitoring blood glucose regularly and monitoring ketone bodies in urine if on insulin is essential. All this while concurrently maintaining physical activity and a healthy diet. Different supporting entities are being set up to help this population., Conclusion: COVID-19 is a top priority. It is important to remember that a substantial proportion of the world's population is affected by other co-morbidities such as diabetes. These require special attention during this pandemic to avoid adding on to the burden of countries' healthcare systems., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Anal dysplasia and HIV shedding in ART-treated men.
- Author
-
Choi Y, Salit I, Grech S, Sano M, Weiss E, Kovacs C, Paquette R, Claudio M, Gibbons S, Severini A, and Kaul R
- Subjects
- Anal Canal virology, HIV Infections transmission, HIV Integrase Inhibitors therapeutic use, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Ontario epidemiology, Papillomavirus Infections virology, Proctoscopy, RNA, Viral, Risk Factors, Sexual and Gender Minorities, Viral Load, Anti-HIV Agents therapeutic use, Anus Neoplasms epidemiology, Carcinoma in Situ epidemiology, HIV Infections drug therapy, Papillomavirus Infections epidemiology, Precancerous Conditions epidemiology, Virus Shedding
- Abstract
Objectives: Anal human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is highly prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM). HPV-associated anal dysplasia has been linked with anal HIV RNA shedding despite antiretroviral therapy (ART). Since mucosal HIV levels are a key determinant of sexual transmission of the virus, this would have important public health implications. Therefore, we assessed the association between anal dysplasia and HIV shedding in ART-treated MSM from Toronto, Canada., Methods: In 54 HIV-infected men on effective ART, we assessed anal HIV RNA shedding by PCR, HPV infection by microsphere-based genotyping and anal dysplasia by high-resolution anoscopy. All participants were enrolled between May 2017 and October 2018., Results: The median duration of ART at the time of study enrolment was 18 years, with most participants being on an integrase inhibitor-based ART regimen. Low-level anal HIV RNA shedding was present in 15/54 (27.8%) participants. Neither the detection of shedding nor the level of HIV RNA was associated with anal dysplasia, HPV infection or antiretroviral regimen., Conclusions: HPV-associated anal dysplasia was not associated with anal HIV RNA shedding in this relatively small cohort of men on effective ART. While anal HIV RNA was detected more often than anticipated, shedding was low level and unlikely to cause HIV transmission. However, the immunological drivers of anal HIV RNA shedding in ART-treated individuals may merit further study., Competing Interests: Competing interests: YC is supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) studentship, and RK is supported by the Ontario HIV Treatment Network (OHTN) Endowed Chair in HIV Research at the University of Toronto., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2020. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Assessing impaired fasting blood glucose criteria for high-risk dysglycaemic populations: an experience from a European population state.
- Author
-
Cuschieri S and Grech S
- Abstract
Purpose: Discrepancies exist between international bodies for the diagnosis of impaired fasting glucose (IFG). The aim of this study was to establish the IFG characteristics and evaluate the best diagnostic IFG criteria in a high risk dysglycaemic population., Methods: An IFG population ( n = 451) was identified from a national representative cross-sectional survey using a fasting blood glucose (FBG) ranging from 5.60 to 6.99 mmol/L. These participants were invited for a follow-up oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Both FBG results (health survey & OGTT) were evaluated in relation to different diagnostic IFG criteria (>5.6 mmol/L vs. >6.1 mmol/L) while comparing to the final OGTT glycemic diagnosis., Results: Out of the total survey population ( n = 1861), 24.34% was diagnosed with IFG. Approximately 50% of the IFG's ( n = 227) attended for the OGTT. The majority of the IFG population were male with an overweight-obese status. If the FBG cut-off point of 6.1 mmol/L was followed, more than a quarter of the population attending the OGTT would have had a missed dysglycaemic status., Conclusion: High-risk dysglycaemic and body mass populations may establish a more accurate dysglycaemia diagnosis and outcome when following an FBG cut-off point of >5.60 mmol/L for IFG., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe authors declare that they do not have any conflict of interest., (© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.)
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. What We Know About Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games.
- Author
-
Chen A, Mari S, Grech S, and Levitt J
- Subjects
- Humans, Internet Addiction Disorder therapy, Quality of Life, Brain physiopathology, Internet Addiction Disorder physiopathology, Internet Addiction Disorder psychology, Mental Disorders psychology
- Abstract
The fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines internet gaming disorder without differentiating games from their respective genres, such as first-person shooter versus real-time strategy versus online gaming. Our review of the literature on massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) suggests that MMORPGs are different from other games because they are the most addictive, and therefore deserve to be looked at separately. MMORPGs are internet platforms for online users to interact with each other in a virtual story line. The overview of the existing literature delineates the positive and negative aspects of MMORPGs and also the available evidence on neuroscientific and neuroanatomical correlates between internet gaming disorder and other addictions. Evidence shows that a player's characteristics and motivations can determine his or her risk of developing problematic play. Problematic MMORPG use may lead to mental disorders such as depression and addiction, and can negatively affect quality of life, and vice versa. Conversely, some players may benefit from being part of a social community and from using it as a learning platform or as a safe space to explore gender-identity issues. Brain circuitry and metabolism are changed through problematic MMORPG use, with the affected areas including the ventral striatum and left angular gyrus.
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. Closing the gap - Is type 2 diabetes awareness enough to prevent the growing epidemic?
- Author
-
Cuschieri S and Grech S
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Adult, Aged, Blood Glucose analysis, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 diagnosis, Female, Follow-Up Studies, Glucose Tolerance Test, Humans, Life Style, Male, Middle Aged, Prediabetic State diagnosis, Prediabetic State prevention & control, Prognosis, Risk Factors, Young Adult, Biomarkers analysis, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 prevention & control, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 psychology, Health Education, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Mass Screening psychology, Prediabetic State psychology
- Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a public health burden requiring a multi-sectorial approach including adequate population awareness to tackle this epidemic. The study was aimed to determine the level of diabetes awareness among a high-risk dysglycaemic population in relation to socio-demographic, lifestyle and family history of diabetes as well as to body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure measurements. Furthermore, the authors strived to explore any relationships between diabetes awareness and an oral glucose tolerance test dysglycaemia diagnosis., Method: Participants obtaining impaired fasting blood glucose in a representative health examination survey were invited to undergo an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). During the OGTT session, participants were invited to take part in a diabetes awareness questionnaire as well as have their weight, height and blood pressure measured. Association between awareness scores and different parameters (age, gender, education, residential district, smoking, alcohol habit, family history, BMI and blood pressure) were explored., Results: Being a female, ageing, non-smoker and having a family history of diabetes had a positive association with adequate diabetes awareness. Even though generally good awareness was present, the majority of the participants were obese, with an elevated blood pressure and obtained a dysglycaemic status post OGTT., Conclusion: Diabetes awareness solely does not appear to engage individuals in preventive initiatives. Behavioural changes are required but these are only established after the motivational action gap has been overcome. Empowering community diabetes mellitus screening programs targeting the environment, social gradients and cultural norms while engaging in preventive interventions are recommended., (Copyright © 2019 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
39. Antecubital Fossa Solitary Osteochondroma with Associated Bicipitoradial Bursitis.
- Author
-
Ng C, Bibiano L, Grech S, and Magazinovic B
- Abstract
Antecubital fossa lesions are uncommon conditions that present to the orthopaedic clinic. Furthermore, the radius bone is an uncommonly reported location for an osteochondroma, especially when presenting with a concurrent reactive bicipitoradial bursitis. Osteochondromas are a type of developmental lesion rather than a true neoplasm. They constitute up to 15% of all bone tumours and up to 50% of benign bone tumours. They may occur as solitary or multiple lesions. Multiple lesions are usually associated with a syndrome known as hereditary multiple exostoses (HME). Malignant transformation is known to occur but is rare. Bicipitoradial bursitis is a condition which can occur as primary or secondary (reactive) pathology. In our case, the radius bone osteochondroma caused reactive bicipitoradial bursitis. The differential diagnosis of such antecubital fossa masses is vast but may be narrowed down through a targeted history, stepwise radiological investigations, and histological confirmation. Our aim is to ensure that orthopaedic clinicians keep a wide differential in mind when dealing with antecubital fossa mass lesions.
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. Imaging of adult ocular and orbital pathology--a pictorial review.
- Author
-
Grech R, Cornish KS, Galvin PL, Grech S, Looby S, O'Hare A, Mizzi A, Thornton J, and Brennan P
- Subjects
- Humans, Orbit anatomy & histology, Orbit injuries, Tomography, X-Ray Computed, Bone Diseases diagnostic imaging, Eye Diseases diagnostic imaging, Orbit diagnostic imaging
- Abstract
Orbital pathology often presents a diagnostic challenge to the reporting radiologist. The aetiology is protean, and clinical input is therefore often necessary to narrow the differential diagnosis. With this manuscript, we provide a pictorial review of adult ocular and orbital pathology.
- Published
- 2014
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
Catalog
Discovery Service for Jio Institute Digital Library
For full access to our library's resources, please sign in.