BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The global pandemic caused by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected millions, with growing evidence of the potential role of ocular tissues in viral transmission. At the time of writing, local data regarding the phenomenon was limited. This study investigated external ocular manifestations in patients with COVID-19 at a referral center in the Philippines, examined correlations between demographics, systemic manifestations, and laboratory results with ocular manifestations, and determined their timing relative to systemic symptoms.

METHODS

This single-center, descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from December 8 to 18, 2020 at the adult COVID-19 wards of the Philippine General Hospital involving 72 participants. Data collection involved relevant clinical history taking and performing gross eye examination. The prevalence of ocular manifestations was described with 95% confidence intervals. Correlations between ocular manifestations and quantitative variables were analyzed with point-biserial correlation, and associations with qualitative variables were tested using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests.

RESULTS

Among participants, 31.9% presented with ocular manifestations with foreign body sensation as the most prevalent ocular symptom (11.1%) and conjunctival hyperemia as the most prevalent ocular finding (19.4%). The median age of patients with ocular manifestations was 41 years old with a higher prevalence in the male population (73.9%, CI=95%, p=0.001). No significant correlation was observed between presence of external ocular manifestations and the different systemic and ocular co-morbidities as well as with COVID-19 clinical classification. Among those who experienced symptoms, majority (29.2%) of the patients experienced systemic symptoms prior to the onset of ocular symptoms. Ocular complaints may present as the sole manifestation (13.9%). Several laboratory parameters were measured and only temperature and AST levels showed a low positive correlation with the presence of ocular manifestations. 

CONCLUSION

Ocular manifestations occur in roughly one third of patients with COVID-19 based on this study population. With some individuals presenting with ocular signs or symptoms as the initial and sole manifestation, healthcare practitioners must exercise caution and remain vigilant in managing patients who present as such. At the time of writing, this is the first local study investigating the different external ocular manifestations in patients with COVID-19. There is a need to pursue more robust studies and conduct more local investigations which will guide both ophthalmologists and other practitioners in strengthening existing guidelines regarding precautionary practices, clinical diagnosis, and management of COVID-19 patients.

Human ; Sars-cov-2 ; Covid-19 ; Philippines ; Adult ; Association ; Classification ; Collection ; Confidence Intervals ; Coronavirus ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Data Collection ; Demography ; Diagnosis ; Disease ; Exercise ; Eye ; Foreign Bodies ; History ; Hospitals ; Hospitals, General ; Hyperemia ; Laboratories ; Male ; Morbidity ; Ophthalmologists ; Pandemics ; Patients ; Population ; Prevalence ; Referral And Consultation ; Role ; Sensation ; Temperature ; Time ; Tissues ; Volition ; World Health Organization ; Writing

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as the causative agent of COVID-19 has significantly challenged the public health landscape in late 2019. After almost 3 years of the first ever SARS-CoV-2 case, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the end of this global health emergency in May 2023. Although, despite the subsequent drop of COVID-19 cases, the SARS-CoV-2 infection still exhibited multiple waves of infection, primarily attributed to the appearance of new variants. Five of these variants have been classified as Variants of Concern (VOC): Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and the most recent, Omicron. Therefore, the development of methods for the timely and accurate detection of viral variants remains fundamental, ensuring an ongoing and effective response to the disease. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of the application of an in-house approach in genomic surveillance for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants using in silico designed primers.

METHODS

The primers used for the study were particularly designed based on conserved regions of certain genes in the virus, targeting distinct mutations found in known variants of SARS-CoV-2. Viral RNA extracts from nasopharyngeal samples (n=14) were subjected to quantitative and qualitative tests (Nanodrop and AGE). Selected samples were then analyzed by RT-PCR and amplicons were submitted for sequencing. Sequence alignment analysis was carried out to identify the prevailing COVID-19 variant present in the sample population.

RESULTS

The study findings demonstrated that the in-house method was able to successfully amplify conserved sequences (spike, envelope, membrane, ORF1ab) and enabled identification of the circulating SARS-CoV-2 variant among the samples. Majority of the samples were identified as Omicron variant. Three out of four designed primers effectively bound into the conserved sequence of target genes present in the sample, revealing the specific SARSCoV-2 variant. The detected mutations characterized for Omicron found in the identified lineages included K417N, S477N, and P681H which were also identified as mutations of interest. Furthermore, identification of the B.1.448 lineage which was not classified in any known variant also provided the potential of the developed in-house method in detecting unknown variants of COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

Among the five VOCs, Omicron is the most prevalent and dominant variant. The in-house direct PCR product sequencing surveillance (DPPSS) method provided an alternative platform for SAR-CoV-2 variant analysis which is accessible and affordable than the conventional diagnostic surveillance methods and the whole genome sequencing. Further evaluation and improvements on the oligonucleotide primers may offer significant contribution to the development of a specific and direct PCRbased detection of new emerging COVID-19 variants.

Sars-cov-2 ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Dna Primers ; Oligonucleotide Primers ; Computer Simulation ; Conserved Sequence ; Coronavirus ; Covid-19 ; Disease ; Emergencies ; Evaluation Studies As Topic ; Genes ; Genome ; Global Health ; Health ; Identification (psychology) ; Infection ; Infections ; Membranes ; Methods ; Mutation ; Oligonucleotides ; Organizations ; Population ; Public Health ; Rna ; Rna, Viral ; Sars Virus ; Sequence Alignment ; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome ; Syndrome ; Viruses ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; World Health Organization

Bullous hemorrhagic dermatosis (BHD) is a rare cutaneous manifestation characterized by tense hemorrhagic bullae that appear at sites distant from low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) injections, typically within seven days of exposure. As of March 2022, only 94 cases have been reported. It most commonly affects elderly males with predisposing factors for thromboembolism, such as carcinoma, and usually involves the extremities.

This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for bullous hemorrhagic dermatosis (BHD) in patients receiving low molecular weight heparin, even beyond the typical 7-day window and in demographics not commonly affected. Early recognition and prompt discontinuation of the offending agent, as demonstrated in this atypical presentation involving a Filipino elderly woman with multiple comorbidities and no malignancy, can lead to favorable outcomes. Clinicians should be aware of this rare but reversible complication to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate management.

Human ; Female ; Aged: 65-79 Yrs Old ; Affect ; Aged ; Blister ; Carcinoma ; Causality ; Demography ; Diagnostic Errors ; Enoxaparin ; Extremities ; Heparin ; Heparin, Low-molecular-weight ; Index ; Injections ; Lead ; Male ; Molecular Weight ; Neoplasms ; Patients ; Research Report ; Skin Diseases ; Thromboembolism ; Women

OBJECTIVE: To elucidate the epidemiological characteristics and genetic variant profile of Short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (SCADD) among newborns from Hainan Province and evaluate its significance within the local neonatal disease screening panel. METHODS: A total of 84 184 newborns born in Hainan Province from February to December 2024 were included. Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) was employed to detect butyrylcarnitine (C4) and propionylcarnitine (C3) levels in dried blood spots. Screening thresholds were set at C4 > 0.43 μ mol/L and C4/C3 ratio > 0.28. Suspected cases underwent confirmatory testing via urinary ethylmalonic acid analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and whole-exome sequencing for ACADS gene variants. This study was approved by the Medial Ethics Committee of the hospital (Ethics No.: HNWCMC-2024-55). RESULTS: Six SCADD cases (male-to-female ratio = 1:1) were diagnosed, with all carrying compound heterozygous variants at two loci, yielding a prevalence of 7.13 per 100,000 live births. Four known ACADS gene variants were identified, with both c.322G>A and c.625G>A detected at a frequency of 41.7%. Regular follow-up (as of January 2026) revealed that all diagnosed cases have remained asymptomatic with normal growth and development. CONCLUSION The prevalence of SCADD among newborns in Hainan Province is relatively high, with c.322G>A and c.625G>A as the hotspot variants in the region. Given the absence of clinical phenotypes in all screen-detected cases during long-term follow-up, it is recommended to remove this condition from the routine neonatal screening program for this region to reduce unnecessary anxiety and medical cost.
Humans ; Infant, Newborn ; Neonatal Screening/methods* ; Female ; Male ; Lipid Metabolism, Inborn Errors/epidemiology* ; Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase/genetics* ; China/epidemiology* ; Follow-Up Studies

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are acknowledged as key drivers in realizing health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The University of the Philippines Manila, College of Public Health (UP CPH) together with the Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH), hosted the 53rd APACPH International Conference last 21-23 September 2022. The conference discussed current issues relating to the attainment of SDGs and promoted collaboration of leading academic institutions and other stakeholders in addressing various public health challenges. The conference revolved around the challenges and opportunities in attaining health-related SDGs, and the good practices and roles of HEIs in addressing health disparities. The lack of certificati on framework of public health tertiary programs, pedagogy and infrastructure, and ambiguous roles and network of public health professionals were discussed. The conference served as a platform for discussing potential resolutions and ways forward in addressing these challenges. Opportunities for improvement such as updating of policies and curricula, strengthening of internship and community engagement programs, establishment of capacity-building partnerships and programs, and developing multidisciplinary-competent faculty and students were identified. This paper providesthe highlights of the conference focusing on the good practices and roles of HEIs in addressing health disparities, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, and other issues and challenges in attaining SDGs.

Human ; Sustainable Development ; Sustainable Development Goals ; Public Health

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The Philippine Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases implemented health protocol guidelines to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Individuals with comorbidities were advised to take precautionary measures due to their increased vulnerability. This study aimed to assess the relationship between knowledge, acceptance, and adherence to health protocols among fully vaccinated individuals with comorbidities in the National Capital Region, Philippines.

METHODS

The study employed an explanatory-sequential mixed-method design. The quantitative phase involved an online survey with 384 respondents. The survey included questions on socio-demographic profile, COVID-19 knowledge, acceptability of health protocols, and adherence to preventive practices. Chi-square Test of Independence and Pearson’s Correlation Test were used to analyze the data. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants, providing rich insights into their personal experiences. The interview transcripts were analyzed using Colaizzi’s descriptive method with the aid of qualitative analysis software (MAXQDA), ensuring a rigorous approach to thematic analysis. The integration of the two phases was achieved by connecting quantitative results with qualitative insights, creating a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena under study.

RESULTS

Findings showed that the relationship of sociodemographic characteristics and level of knowledge (Gender pCONCLUSION

The study suggests that multiple factors contribute to non-adherence to health protocols. Recognizing these holes and weaknesses in the COVID-19 pandemic response stresses the need for national leaders to place urgency on properly implementing preventive measures and providing health education to the masses during public health situations. Collaboration from all sectors is crucial in addressing public health crises. This study can be a valuable resource for future researchers, local government units, and policymakers in prioritizing public health care and pandemic preparedness.

Human ; Comorbidity ; Covid-19 ; Public Health Practice ; Vaccines

Public health nurses (PHNs) in the Philippines play a vital role in advancing Universal Health Care and Primary Health Care by serving as frontline leaders in community engagement, health promotion, and policy implementation. Despite their contributions, they face persistent challenges, including workforce shortages, wage disparities, hospital-centric education, and fragmented governance. Drawing from a reflexive narrative of community-based practice and organizational experience, this article situated the evolving role of PHNs within broader health systems transformation. The National Association of Public Health Nurses, Inc. (NAPHNI) established a unified platform for advocacy, leadership development, and recognition of advanced practice roles. Policy reforms such as a National Nursing Workforce Plan, passage of the Comprehensive Nursing Bill, and competitive compensation were imperative to empower PHNs. Strengthening public health nursing was discovered to be crucial in achieving health equity and a resilient healthcare system in the Philippines.

Human ; Public Health Nursing ; Universal Health Care ; Primary Health Care ; Health Equity

OBJECTIVES: To develop an early atrial fibrillation (AF) risk prediction model based on large-scale electrocardiogram (ECG) data from the Chinese population. METHODS: The data of multiple ECG records of 30 383 patients admitted in the Chinese PLA General Hospital between 2009 and 2023 were randomly divided into the training set and the internal testing set in a 7:3 ratio. The predictive factors were selected based on the training set using univariate analysis, LASSO regression, and the Boruta algorithm. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to establish the ECG model and the composite model incorporating age, gender, and ECG model score. The discrimination power, calibration, and clinical net benefits of the models were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), calibration curves, and decision curves. RESULTS: The cohort included 51.1% male patients with a median age of the patients of 51 (36, 62) years and an AF incidence of 4.5% (1370/30 383). In the ECG model, the parameters related to the P wave and QRS complex were identified as significant predictors. In the testing set, the AUROC of the ECG model for predicting 5-year AF risk was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.74-0.80), which was increased to 0.81 (95% CI: 0.78-0.83) after incorporating age and gender, with a net reclassification improvement of 0.123 and an integrated discrimination improvement of 0.04 (P<0.05). The calibration curve of the model was close to the diagonal line. Decision curve analysis showed that the clinical net benefit of the composite model was higher than that of the ECG model across the majority of threshold probability. CONCLUSIONS The composite model incorporating quantitative ECG features during sinus rhythm, along with age and gender, can effectively predict AF risk in the Chinese population, thus providing a low-cost screening tool for early AF risk assessment and management.
Humans ; Atrial Fibrillation/epidemiology* ; Electrocardiography ; Middle Aged ; Male ; Female ; China/epidemiology* ; Proportional Hazards Models ; Adult ; Risk Factors ; Risk Assessment ; East Asian People

OBJECTIVES: To compare perioperative and mid-term results of multiple versus single arterial off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG) in patients with impaired left ventricular function. METHODS: This study was conducted among 86 patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50%, who underwent OPCABG at our hospital between January, 2018 and December, 2021. Of these patients, 22 underwent OPCABG with multiple arterial grafts (multiple graft group) and 64 received a single arterial graft in OPCABG (single graft group). The preoperative, intraoperative, and perioperative data were collected, and the patients were followed up for a mean of 29.28±14.84 months. The perioperative outcomes and follow-up results of the patients were compared, and the factors influencing major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were identified using logistic regression. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare the postoperative survival rate without MACE. RESULTS: The patients in multiple graft group had a significantly younger age than those in single graft group (P<0.05), but the other baseline data were similar between the two groups (P>0.05). Perioperative mortality, 24-h postoperative drainage volume, length of ICU stay, intubation time, and the incidence of new-onset atrial fibrillation were all similar between the two groups (P>0.05), but the rate of postoperative hypotension was significantly higher in multiple graft group (34.78% vs 11.54%, P=0.009). No significant differences were found in the incidence of MACE or echocardiographic data during the follow-up. Logistic regression identified the female sex (OR: 0.191, 95% CI: 0.049-0.075) and creatinine level (OR: 1.016, 95% CI: 1.000-1.033) as factors affecting postoperative MACE occurrence. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed no significant difference in MACE-free survival rate between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS OPCABG with multiple arterial grafts does not increase severe perioperative complications or the risk of mid-term MACE in patients with impaired left ventricular function.
Humans ; Follow-Up Studies ; Postoperative Complications/epidemiology* ; Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/physiopathology* ; Coronary Artery Bypass, Off-Pump/adverse effects* ; Male ; Female ; Ventricular Function, Left ; Middle Aged ; Risk Factors ; Aged ; Perioperative Period ; Stroke Volume

OBJECTIVES: To analyze bone mass distribution and the factors affecting bone mass in a general Chinese Han cohort undergoing physical examinations at our center. METHODS: We retrospectively collected the data of bone mineral density (BMD) measurements from 30 599 healthy Han Chinese adults (age≥20 years) who underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans at our hospital from July, 2013 to July, 2023. Basic parameters including height, body weight, and gender were recorded, and descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were performed using R software. RESULTS: In this cohort, the male individuals had a mean peak BMD of 1.00±0.12 g/cm² in the lumbar vertebrae, 0.94±0.14 g/cm² in the femoral neck, and 0.99±0.13 g/cm² in the total hip, significantly higher than the values in the female individuals [0.99±0.12 g/cm² in the lumbar vertebrae (P=0.022), 0.79±0.11 g/cm² in the femoral neck (P<0.001), and 0.88±0.11 g/cm² in the total hip (P<0.001)]. In the overall cohort, the BMD values of the lumbar spine and femur decreased with age after reaching their peak levels. There was a positive correlation between BMD value and body mass index (BMI) in both male and female individuals. The 2013-2014 period recorded the lowest BMD values in the lumbar, hip, and femoral neck, which tended to increase steadily in the following years (2015-2023). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that the BMD values vary among different populations, and future multi-center studies using more accurate BMD detection technology are warranted to capture the variation patterns of BMD with demographic characteristics of specific populations.
Humans ; Bone Density ; Absorptiometry, Photon ; Male ; Female ; Retrospective Studies ; Osteoporosis/diagnostic imaging* ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Lumbar Vertebrae/diagnostic imaging* ; China/epidemiology* ; Femur Neck/diagnostic imaging* ; Aged ; Beijing/epidemiology* ; Young Adult