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Nov 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-23-4766
G. Ong EmilyCorresponding author
This study explored concerns and unsolicited advice relating to miscarriage shared on multiple social media platforms for mentions of questions, advocacy, medical advice, conflicts of interest, and terminology used to describe miscarriage. Public social media posts in English from January 1st, 2019 to June 30th, 2021 were searched using keywords related to miscarriage. A dataset of questions, advice, conflicts of interest, and terminology used was created from eligible posts determined by inclusionary and exclusionary criteria. The dataset was analyzed to identify themes and calculate statistics. Approximately 1000 posts were reviewed and 149 posts were found eligible for analysis. Of the total, 116 posts included advice and a subset of 71 posts offered questions. A total of 152 mentions of advice were identified from the total eligible posts with 82.9% of advice related to advocacy for destigmatizing miscarriage, enhancing community support, or expressing grief. 17.1% of posts offered medical advice eligible for evaluation of which 73% were accurate across all platforms. From the dataset, 103 questions were analyzed for common themes. The four most common themes of questions included grief, self-blame, quality of post-miscarriage counseling in different care settings, and inadequate medical counseling. This study indicates that women who experience miscarriage have many unanswered questions and powerful feelings relating to grief and self-blame that could have long-term impacts. Social media has become a place for women to self-advocate and connect with others for support, from which clinicians could increase their understanding of women’s unmet needs.
Jun 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-23-4615
Manickum ThavrinCorresponding author
A literature review was undertaken with a focus on 1) identifying the research gaps regarding CECs, 2) identifying the most common ones, and 3) identifying the typical analytical methods/technologies employed, for their analysis. A total of 214 papers were noted, with a total of 21 review articles (9.8%). Of this total, a surprisingly high number were from South Africa alone: 117 (54.7%), of which 44 (20.6%) reports were associated with South Africa’s Water Research Commission (WRC). The top three CECs research gaps were (decreasing rank: Number of “gaps”, %): 1) Toxicity/Risk/Impact (260, 21.5%), 2) Analysis/Tests/Methods (118, 9.8%) and 2) Future research/studies (118, 9.8%), and 3) Monitoring (89, 7.4%). The common classes of CECs that were reported on, were : (i) Chemical: pharmaceuticals, personal care products, steroids, chlorinated and brominated contaminants, PAHs, PCBs, phthalates, alkyl phenols, herbicides, organochlorine pesticides, engineered nanomaterials and (ii) “Microbiological”: antibiotic resistance genes, human enteric bacteria and viruses, microbial pathogens (e.g., E Coli, rotavirus, Crypto, etc.), infectious biological water contaminants (e.g., E Coli isolates), cyanobacterial blooms (Microcystis). Common test methods used for analysis of the chemical contaminants were found to be chromatography (gas, liquid)-mass spectrometry; for the microbial contaminants, they were culture-based methods, ELISA, fluorescence microscopy, qPCR, RT-qPCR, gel electrophoresis, Raman spectroscopy, and also chromatography (largely liquid)-mass spectrometry, were also used. Some proposals were additionally made to address the very common, significant research gaps noted in CECs research, especially the standardization of analytical chemical test methods, based on chromatography-mass spectrometry, for quantification.
Dec 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-22-4351
Heidari AlirezaCorresponding author
Faculty of Chemistry, California South University, 14731 Comet St. Irvine, CA 92604, USA.
Molecular imaging is a new method in examining physiological studies in molecular dimensions. Among the various methods that have been introduced for this purpose, the magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) method has made it possible to more accurately study the activities of the brain region as well as tumors in different parts of the body. MRS imaging is a type of non– invasive imaging technique that is used to study metabolic changes in the brain, stroke, seizure disorders, Alzheimer's disease, depression and also metabolic changes in other parts of the body such as muscles. In fact, since metabolic changes in the human body appear faster than anatomical and physiological changes, the use of this method can play an important role in the early detection and diagnosis of cancers, infections, metabolic changes and many other diseases. (Graphical Abstract) Graphical Abstract. CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC) radiation source for magnetic resonance biospectroscopy in metabolic and molecular imaging and diagnosis of cancer.
Nov 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4335
Cameron Y. S. LeeCorresponding author
It is estimated that over 47 million people use tobacco products, mostly in the form of combustible (smokable) tobacco cigarettes. Thirteen to 50% of smokers also use electronic cigarettes (also known as e-cigarettes or vaping). Use of tobacco is the primary preventable cause of death and risk factor for lung, head, neck, and oropharyngeal cancer. Electronic cigarettes are a $10 billion dollar industry and has the potential to surpass the tobacco cigarette market. E-cigarette use is a public health concern because of the health issues of vaping and the limited amount of scientific research to support the safety of e-cigarette use. The authors of this paper want to create awareness that use of e-cigarettes is not a safer alternative to smoking tobacco cigarettes as e-cigarettes contain known carcinogens that may lead to development of oropharyngeal cancer.
Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-22-4117
Wu JianqingCorresponding author
Healthier World (Independent researcher for cause), P. O. Box 689, Beltsville, MD 20704. USA
Several mRNA vaccines are used on the population in the U.S. I started predicting the dangers of mRNA vaccines before March 2021 and update my findings periodically. My prior model study enabled me to identify many flaws in clinical trials, side-effect evaluation methods and mechanism studies, and I also considered consistent failure in predicting drug side effects in the past and systematic failure of FDA in keeping out dangerous drugs from market. I found that the risks of vaccination cannot be determined by experiments alone and must be determined by using a combination of methods. By studying mRNA expression dynamics and kinetics, I predict that vaccination with mRNA vaccines may increase cancer risks, multiple organ failure risks, earlier death risks, genome alteration speeds by one or more mechanisms, alter the normal selection process for viral evolution resulting in more virulent viruses, and aggravate chronic diseases or cause healed diseases to relapse. Two root problems are practical inability to control expression sites and severe adverse reactions from repeated vaccination. Based on mRNA bio-distribution, the mRNA mainly strikes the liver and other vital organs, and poses grave dangers to persons whose vascular functional reserves are relatively small, or whose vascular systems are temporarily burdened by other causes such as viral infections or life activities. If an mRNA vaccine is administered on a pregnant woman by second or booster shots, spike protein synthesis in fetus brain disrupts the highly regulated protein synthesis processes, resulting in potential brain damages. In less than a year, most of my early predicted damages are being materialized or are on the track to hit the population. In this update, I present a benefits-and-risks map to show how the number of deaths caused by mRNA vaccines is grossly underestimated and why claimed benefits like 95% effectiveness rate and 90% death rate reduction are meaningless and misleading.
May 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-21-3835
Montes MilagrosaCorresponding author
Biodonostia Health Research Institute, Vaccine Preventable Diseases Group; Osakidetza Basque Health Service, Donostia University Hospital, Microbiology Department, 20014 San Sebastian, Spain.
Objective Real-time surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOC) is of essential public health importance. Rapid Antigen Detection Tests (RAgDT) have become first-line COVID-19 diagnostic methods in many regions, but this strategy can hamper the surveillance of the virus variants due to their decentralized performance. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of the remaining sample of a widely used RAgDT (Panbio) for the surveillance of the B.1.1.7 VOC using molecular methods. Methods Symptomatic individuals and asymptomatic close contacts of confirmed cases were routinely screened for SARS-CoV-2 infection using the RAgDT in Primary Health Care Centers. After performing the test, the extraction tubes containing the remaining biological material of RAgDT-positive cases were sent to the clinical microbiology laboratory where RT-PCRs detecting key mutations of the VOC were conducted. Results A valid result was obtained in 1770/1812 (97.7%) RAgDT-positive cases. Variant B.1.1.7 was detected in 34.7% of the patients, increasing from 0% to 87.7% between the weeks beginning January 4 and March 15, 2021. Conclusion The sample remaining after performing the Panbio RAgDT allowed to monitor the emergence and circulation of the B.1.1.7, greatly improving the population screened for the molecular study of SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2326-0793.jpgr-19-3114
Ollomo BenjaminCorresponding author
Unité Mixte de Recherches (UMR-BIOMED), Faculté de Médecine, B.P 8507 Libreville, Gabon
Background During the last two decades, the polymorphism of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) gene has been extensively studied among different human populations. In humans, several studies have shown the relationship between this polymorphism and the risk of many serious diseases with a heavy burden of health in developing countries. After analyzing the polymorphism in the population, the present study was also concerned with the investigation of an eventual association between hypertension, stroke, cancer prostate and I/D polymorphism of the ACE gene. Materials and Methods Our study population included 163 Baka (pygmy) and 158 Fang (Bantu) from Gabon to evaluate the polymorphism in the country. Concerning the diseases, we included 105 patients and 120 controls for hypertension, 37 patients stroke matched with 50 controls and 97 patients with prostate cancer were recruited. All participants in the study were genotyped for the ACE I/D polymorphism obtained by polymerase chain reaction amplification on genomic DNA. Results Our analysis showed that the ACE D allele DD genotype frequencies were highest of all the data so far in human populations. We obtained a frequency of 0.138 for I allele and 0.862 for D allele among pygmy and the frequencies of 0.313 and 0.687 respectively for the I and D alleles. This difference was significant (p<0.05). In patients, we revealed the predominance of D allele and DD genotype for hypertension (0.27 for I allele and 0.73 for D allele), for stroke (0.15 for I allele and 0.85 for D allele) and 83% of individuals with cancer prostate carry the D allele. D allele and DD genotype are associated with risk to hypertension whereas allele I seem protective at the occurrence of stroke (p<0.05 between healthy and controls). Conclusion We show that the D allele and DD genotype were higher in this population. Also theses two signatures may be associated at genetic risk of hypertension, stroke and prostate cancer in this country deprived of human resources for quality care of many patients.
Jun 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-26-6358
Marks RayCorresponding author
Hip fractures, which remain an immense public health concern, have been subject to study and prevention efforts for many decades, but with limited success in averting either incident, second or subsequent hip fractures, commonly attributed to a combination of age related proclivity to fall, low bone and muscle mass. This review examines second hip fracture incidence rates and determinants of this serious functionally debilitating injury as observed over time remains a current 2026 public health concern. It specifically explores if more preventive efforts are currently warranted in this regard, and in what respect, if indeed, more frail older adults are living longer, but may be in excessively poor health, fearful of moving or falling, malnourished, weak with poor balance, or depressed. Based on what is published, it is concluded 1) second hip fracture incidence rates remain considerable, especially among those who are frail with osteoporotic bone disease, poor vision, heart/or cognitive conditions, plus those with muscle deficits of the lower limb, live alone and have a falls history; 2) studies to identify possible mitigation approaches appear promising in this regard, along with more routine efforts to minimize falls risk and bone attrition.
May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4837.ijip-26-6169
Ershova JuliaCorresponding author
Introduction The risk of exposure to M. tuberculosis among healthcare workers (HCW) remains a public health concern worldwide. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Biomedical Research and Training Institute supported the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care in strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in healthcare facilities (HCF), integrating tuberculosis (TB) infection control (TBIC) into the intervention strategy. We describe the impact of this intervention on TBIC practices and HCW screening outcomes. Methods The strategy, implemented from June 2021–September 2022, included IPC mentorship training, competency assessments, and use of a standardized risk assessment tool for progress monitoring. For the training purposes, the project developed eight practical problem-solving IPC modules including an occupational health component. Trained mentors conducted bi-monthly site support visits (SSV), used a checklist to track compliance, and assessed competencies of HCW at the targeted facilities. Facility-based risk assessments were conducted three times during the project implementation. Results During the intervention, 1,865 HCW from 105 facilities were trained. Availability and use of personal protective equipment improved by 49% and 42%, respectively. The proportion of HCF with designated areas for sputum collection increased by 43%. The proportion of HCF that screened HCW for TB increased by 42% with 3,761 HCW screened during the project period. Fourteen were diagnosed with TB and referred for care, resulting in 372 new cases per 100,000. Conclusion The implemented strategy of training, mentorship, and regular SSV strengthened TBIC measures, improved TB screening practices and case finding among HCW. Improving and maintaining practices is critical for effective TBIC.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5715
Couture LucyCorresponding author
Recruitment for research studies focused on communicable diseases such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has historically been challenging, particularly among populations who have been underrepresented in media messaging, yet maintain a significant vulnerability to new HIV cases, like Black women. This study examines the recruitment strategies utilized in Aim 2 of pilot study at the University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHealth) in Houston, Texas that was funded by the Ujima Mentoring Program to develop, implement, and evaluate a video log (vlog)-based intervention. The overarching goal of the pilot study was to promote the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among cisgender Black women in Harris County, Texas. Aim 2 involved the creation of a culturally relevant vlog for use in Aim 3, which sought to educate and motivate participants to consider PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy. With the growing role of digital platforms in public health outreach, social media was employed alongside traditional recruitment methods such as flyers and word-of-mouth referrals. Despite an expanded online reach, engagement remained low, and participation rates did not increase proportionally to the number of individuals who viewed recruitment materials. The reluctance to participate was largely attributed to stigma surrounding HIV and concerns about being publicly associated with an HIV prevention study based on participants feedback to the research team. Even the availability of research incentives to encourage participation did not significantly improve recruitment accrual goals, particularly among healthcare providers who experienced limitations with eligibility due to institutional policies. This study underscores the need to better understand the social and cultural barriers that prevent Black women and healthcare providers from engaging in HIV prevention research. While digital recruitment strategies can enhance visibility to a larger audience, they must be supported with trust-building efforts, community partnerships, and culturally competent messaging to encourage meaningful participation. These findings point to the critical need for multi-faceted recruitment strategies that go beyond social media campaigns and actively build trust within communities, ensuring that HIV prevention research and interventions are both accessible and culturally resonant.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-1977.jd-25-5754
Valentine Olagunju GraceCorresponding author
With more than 150,000 affected infants annually, Nigeria bears the largest burden worldwide of sickle cell disease (SCD), making it a significant public health concern. The management of SCD in Nigeria is challenging, despite advancements in medical research and increased knowledge. This review examines the numerous issues surrounding SCD in the nation, including the financial burden on affected families, the lack of specialized care facilities, the absence of newborn screening programs, the sociocultural stigmatization of SCD, and restricted access to high-quality healthcare. Additionally, inadequate public health education and a lack of coordinated national policies result in delayed diagnosis and suboptimal treatment outcomes. We also highlighted recent efforts and recommendations aimed at improving early detection, comprehensive care, and community support. Addressing these challenges through expanded health education and enhanced healthcare infrastructure is essential to reducing morbidity and mortality associated with SCD in Nigeria.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-5209.ijen-25-5732
S Isaac AnvyCorresponding author
The growing population demands and environmental concerns associated with traditional protein sources have prompted the exploration of alternative and sustainable food sources. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to highlight the nutritional benefits and sustainability of insect-based foods as a promising solution. Global population growth necessitates innovative approaches to meet the demand for nutritious and sustainable protein sources. There are numerous challenges associated with traditional livestock farming, including land use inefficiency, high water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, edible insects have emerged as a viable alternative, providing proteins (35-77% of dry matter), healthy fats (10-50%), essential amino acids, and micronutrients such as iron (up to 31mg/100g) and zinc (up to 20mg/100g), vitamins, and minerals. In contrast to livestock, which requires 22,000-43,000 liters of water to produce 1 kg of beef, insect farming consumes significantly less water and land resources. Insects have the potential to address nutritional deficiencies and strengthen food security as they are recognized for sustainable production. The study thoroughly investigates the literature addressing environmental and sustainability concerns associated with edible insect farming, using a rigorous bibliometric and scientometric analysis via Vos viewer. With the help of Vos Viewer, it was possible to identify the geographical distribution of countries that contributed to the field of edible insects and their acceptance, as well as the top ten documents in this field with the most citations and mostly used keywords in this field of research. Future research and implementation strategies will be able to benefit global food security and environmental conservation through these alternative protein sources.
Nov 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-25-5786
Ornelle Elion Assiana DarrelCorresponding author
In the Republic of the Congo, tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern. Although the GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay is the WHO-recommended first-line diagnostic test, smear microscopy is still used for treatment monitoring and in facilities where molecular testing is limited. Evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of smear microscopy compared to GeneXpert and MGIT culture is essential to guide diagnostic strategies and strengthen TB control in the country. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 92 presumptive pulmonary TB patients at Makelekele Hospital. Sputum samples were analyzed by smear microscopy, GeneXpert MTB/RIF, and MGIT culture. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value were calculated for smear microscopy and GeneXpert, using culture as the reference standard. Culture detected more Mycobacterium tuberculosis than microscopy (49% vs. 32%, P<0.001). Smear microscopy showed a sensitivity of 58% (95% CI: 43–71%) and specificity of 92% (95% CI: 80–97%). GeneXpert detected more MTB (62% vs. 49%, P<0.001) with a sensitivity of 98% (95% CI: 89–100%) and specificity of 72% (95% CI: 58–83%). GeneXpert showed superior sensitivity for TB detection, while microscopy remained specific. Expanding GeneXpert testing across the Republic of the Congo will improve TB management.
Nov 2025
Ryan AlexanderCorresponding author
Frequency neurofeedback (FNF) is a biofeedback method that targets frequencies between 1 and 50 Hz. The efficacy of FNF with autism has been labeled ‘probably efficacious’ in literature reviews in the last decade, despite new research pointing towards a higher standard. The aim of this review was to analyze key features of these studies, with a goal of determining the efficacy standard of FNF on autism and establishing a research direction. Electronic databases and literature reviews were used to collect a total of ten randomized and/or matched controlled trials. FNF reaches a Level 4 efficacy standard, with an impact on a broad range of factors including core autistic traits, social communication, emotional regulation, cognitive flexibility, executive function, behaviors of concern, attention, metabolic or thermal activity, and EEG e.g. decreased absolute power, mu rhythm, coherence and hyperconnectivity. Current evidence generalizes to male children, up to 18 years, with a low-average or higher intellectual functioning, with autism as the only diagnosis. A meta-analysis suggests a large superior effect when compared to wait list controls. Current research does not meet the higher efficacy standards outlined by Arns et al. (2020). Small samples plague most studies, and the maintenance of improvements post-training are yet to be assessed adequately. Eight recommendations are made.
Oct 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-25-5626
Kankindi PriscillieCorresponding author
Background Masculinity remains a dominant phenomenon in the social construction and performance of male roles in society, influencing economic participation, access to essential services, and decision-making at household levels. Research focusing on women's empowerment has been extensively done, with little focus on how masculine support from men impacts the well- being of married women. This study examined how married women perceive male support in the context of economic, emotional, and physical support in Luwero district, Uganda. Methods This was an exploratory qualitative study conducted among married women aged 18 to 49 years. Key informant interviews were conducted with community women aged 30 to 40 years, and village health teams aged 30 to 40 years. The study participants were purposively selected based on the inclusion criteria of the study. Data were analysed using content analysis and the findings were presented using themes/sub-themes along with participant quotes. Results We interviewed married women aged 18 to 49 years old, with the majority falling in the age category of 30 to 39 years (59.1%) and were married for over 6 to 9 years (45.5%). Concerning the key informants, 2 VHTs were aged between 30 to 39 years (66.7%), and the women leaders were aged between 30 to 40 years (60%). About male support among women, nine subthemes emerged, including low engagement in family affairs, lack of financial support and cultural traditions, women’s insecurity, emotional neglect, women as providers of emotional support, lack of emotional responsiveness, emotional support driven by institutional policy, shared domestic responsibilities, and lack of physical presence during sickness. Generally, male support towards women was found to be lacking. Conclusion Male support among married women remains insufficient, contributing to emotional strain and unequally distributed responsibilities. Strengthening community awareness and engaging men through tailored programs can foster a more supportive domestic environment.
Aug 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-25-5659
Marks RayCorresponding author
Background Older adults with disabling osteoarthritis may be severely impacted by negative emotions and pain, especially if they feel isolated. Review Aims 1) To summarize the research base concerning the presence of depression in older adults suffering from osteoarthritis; 2) To examine the degree to which mitigating loneliness is desirable in this regard and may be helped by one of the many emergent robotic social devices offering companionship; and 3) To provide directives for professionals who work or are likely to work with this population in the future. Methods Reviewed were current publications detailing some aspect of osteoarthritis in the older adult, depression, emergent loneliness and social isolation, and the role and impact of robotic personal ‘friends’ in this realm. Results Collectively, these data reveal efforts to reduce and mitigate different degrees of depression in older adult osteoarthritis cases are needed and that social robots may help quell isolation. Implication Those older adults with osteoarthritis suffering from depression and emergent loneliness and social isolation may benefit from robotic human or pet like contacts and interactions regardless of cause and overall health status, but the key is still loneliness prevention.
Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5580
Ina Grant Sagnia PhebianCorresponding author
Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is a school-based intervention aimed at correcting misinformation surrounding sexual education among youth, often influenced by social media, peer groups and misleading online content. In The Gambia, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has developed and introduced a national framework to integrate CSE from Grade 4 (primary school level) to Grade 12 (senior secondary school level). This study explores the perceptions and recommendations of 50 secondary school teachers from 43 public and private schools in Region 1 on the implementation of CSE in schools. While some teachers expressed concerns that CSE might promote perverted and lewd early sexual behavior, others saw it as essential for increased awareness and youth well-being. Cultural, religious, and societal norms pose significant implementation barriers towards the implementation of CSE in schools. Teachers’ insights are vital for successful CSE delivery and educational strategy improvements.
Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8681.jcsr-25-5618
Isea RaulCorresponding author
Humanity is persistently threatened by global pandemics- exemplified by the Black plague, the Spanish flu, and COVID-19, which reveal a continual absence of concern in real-time prevention. To forecast biological threats in the future and spur proactive human response, the term Global Biological Consciousness (GBC) is introduced.GBC requires an Extended Bioethics, a dynamic ethical framework for conscious management mediated by GBC. This perspective will enable preventive actions and will seek global biological resilience through the algorithmic responsibility of AI and systemic justice, as will be explained in the work. The GBC, through Extended Bioethics, will provide an ability to analyze biological data as it occurs using AI and quantum computing, expect outbreaks before they happen and attenuate their effects, here creates a new ethical contract for all humankind as they co-exist in a biological world.
Mar 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-25-5464
R. Hodgson BruceCorresponding author
Antarctic krill is an important component of the zooplankton production in the Southern Ocean and is a major food source for baleen whales. The role of commercial fishing and predation by whales on Krill abundance has been investigated here using the innovative ecosystem-based fishery management, EBFM which maintains the krill to whale food web ecosystem stability. The literature indicates the Krill fishery may have been overfished, so it was reduced to the current annual upper limit of 0.62 million tonnes for support other predators of krill, such as seals, penguins and flying sea birds. However, recent literature suggests a moderate reduction in krill catch in the Antarctic Peninsula area due to its importance for whale migration to temperate areas. The Peninsula area catch was estimated to be reduced by about 10% due to additional concerns about climate change effects on krill abundance in the Southern Ocean, reducing overall catch to 0.556 million tonnes, moderately higher than the maximum taken in 2022. Hence, the krill biomass fishing was reduced to allow for predation by baleen whales and other predators, giving a full ecosystem-based fishing mortality similar to that previously estimated to maintain krill production in the Southern Ocean.
Mar 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-25-5429
O. Makanjuola RasheedCorresponding author
Malaria and bacteraemia are significant public health concerns and economic threats. In Africa, the intensity for simultaneous transmission and co-infection of Plasmodium spp and other bacteria pathogens are extremely high. It is believed that malaria suppress the immune system and enable the translocation of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract to other cellular compartments in the body. Some of the factors that contributed to the co-emergence of these pathogens are poor access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), poor infection control measures, inefficient health care systems. In addition, the similarities in the clinical signs and symptoms of these febrile diseases and the fact that the etiologic diagnostic testing can be complex, costly, and limited are the reasons why clinicians in resource-constrained setting often prescribe antibiotics empirically prior to or without laboratory testing to prevent severe outcomes in any patient hospitalized with malaria. However, this indiscriminate use of antibiotics has been identified as the driving force for antibiotic resistance, which is already at alarming rate in malaria endemic nations. In developed countries where malaria had been previously eradicated, there are increasing reports of imported malaria with concurrent bacteraemia. In this review, we emphasized the role of malaria in the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and the fact that eliminating malaria in Africa is one of the best strategies to address the emergence and the global spread of multi-drug resistance organisms.
Feb 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5436
J Johnson RalphCorresponding author
High rates of workplace psychological stress and burnout have been chronic among Healthcare Practitioners. Research shows that Healthcare Practitioner psychological stress / burnout is related to poor quality of care and a high probability of making medical errors and mishaps resulting in harm to patients and even workers themselves. In response, relatively impactful programs have been developed to address Practitioner burnout. To derive a better understanding of the subject and inform best practices and policy regarding the problem and its fixes, this article reports findings from a novel study of a systematic (PRISMA-based) literature review of current (circa ~10 years <) literature reviews; or a distillation of reviews already at 100 proof then undergoing a further distillation into a review of 200 proof.* This study employed a grounded theoretic qualitative methodology to iteratively generate and enumerate descriptive themes from the study’s literature review articles. This article reports on what is currently known regarding the precipitants of Health Practitioner Burnout, Burnout itself, its relationship to Safety lapses and mishaps, and Programmatic Interventions (i.e., Fixes). The primary conclusion is that Health Practitioners are the foundation of healthcare organizations and key to quality care and management / leadership should be concerned for their wellbeing; and this article provides a general blueprint in terms of addressing burnout and safety. Study Limitations and Future research are also discussed.
Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-24-5358
Kar SonaliCorresponding author
Background Injuries, particularly unintentional ones, are a neglected public health concern and are preventable or avoidable. Children in urban slums are especially vulnerable due to hazardous living conditions, inadequate supervision, and lack of safe sojourns or play areas. Since these injuries result in seeming spontaneous recovery, appropriate care being initiated by the primary care giver is questionable. Objective To assess the burden of unintentional injuries of unintentional injuries in pre-school going children aged 2-6 years in urban slums of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. To compare the knowledge of the 1st level care post-injury among the primary care givers against standardized prescribed care. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was conducted for over 2 years in urban slums under the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), the capital city of Odisha. A total of 285 children aged 2-6 years, whose mothers consented to participate, were included in the study. Data regarding the type of injury and its management, as well as, associated socio-demographic factors, were collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to derive the burden of unintentional injuries in children. The knowledge of the 1st level of care to be given after the common injuries was assessed among all the primary caregivers to detect the treatment and care gap. Results The majority of primary respondents were mothers aged 21-30 years (82.1%), The frequency of an episode of unintentional injury (occurrence in last 3 months) in the study population was found to be 58%. The most common type of injury reported was skin lacerations or tears, common site being in the upper and lower limbs. Males were more affected as compared to females (54.64 %) The reporting of unintentional injuries among the children was found to have significant association with the occupation of the father. Fathers who were unemployed or working as unskilled labor, their child’s probability of reporting an unintentional injury was found to be high, with p value coming to be statistically significant. Conclusion The study highlights the complex interplay of sociodemographic factors influencing unintentional injuries among children in urban slums and the need to create awareness among the primary caregivers, about the immediate management, so that chronic complications may be averted. It is difficult to avert injury as this age group is agile and nowadays supervision is challenging. Still, the knowledge of management would not just empower the caregiver, but also the growing child, who can attend to their younger siblings or themselves, whenever they get injured next. Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to validate these findings and develop effective prevention strategies.
Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-5352
C. Katusi GodfreyCorresponding author
Introduction Adolescent pregnancy has become a global health concern in recent years, with maintaining dietary diversity being essential to ensure the health of both the mother and fetus. This study aimed to understand the dietary diversity and nutritional status among pregnant adolescents attending antenatal clinic and identify the factors influencing these outcomes. Methodology A hospital based cross-sectional study was done at St Francis Regional Referral Hospital at Ifakara, Tanzania. A total of 131 adolescent pregnant women consented to participate. Data was obtained using questionnaire and 24-hour dietary recall. Results The study revealed that 93.1% (n=122) of adolescent pregnant women met the minimum dietary diversity score based on 24-hour recall period. Similar proportions were observed for age group but vary significantly with the number of children born (p< 0.001), marital status (p = 0.032) and education level (p< 0.001). Additionally, 93.9% (n=123) of adolescent pregnant women had a normal Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) and 6.1% (n=8) were undernourished. Similar proportions were observed across age, number of children born, marital status, education status, and occupation. Conclusion Most adolescent pregnant women in this study achieved adequate dietary diversity. However, socio-demographic factors such as age, marital status, and education, as well as challenges like illness and loss of appetite, influenced their dietary diversity and overall nutritional status. Future research should adopt a community-based longitudinal approach to better understand these factors and provide a more comprehensive understanding on the dietary patterns of adolescent pregnant women.
Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-24-5322
Pestana Aguiar CatarinaCorresponding author
Studies show that individuals with limited health literacy skills experience worse health outcomes in a multitude of chronic diseases including glaucoma. These patients have poorer compliance, worse disease understanding and greater disease progression. The main purpose of our study was to evaluate the knowledge about glaucoma basic concepts in patients with this disease. A 24 question survey was given to patients followed by the glaucoma department, by phone or in person. Epidemiological data and personal therapeutic regimens were collected as well as data concerning the pathophysiology, treatment and prognosis of the disease. Survey responses were obtained from 79 patients with a mean age of 72 years old. Most of the patients had a low education level. The majority of patients could not enumerate glaucoma risk factors (74.5%), their glaucoma type (94.9%) or the best glaucoma definition (57%). However, they were able to relate the disease to a high IOP (75.9%) and the possibility of it leading to blindness (96.2%). We believe that patients, when observed in their glaucoma appointments, tend to retain information related to the prognosis and consequences of the disease and not focus on the understanding of its pathophysiology, causes and mechanisms, which may reflect their concern about their own future. However, this may lead to some misconceptions about the definition of glaucoma and specially about what can cause this disease. Some investment should be done to improve health literacy in the glaucoma population, with appropriate language and handed material.
Sep 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-24-5207
Olutola AyodotunCorresponding author
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major challenge to global efforts to control the pandemic, particularly in Nigeria, where hesitancy to other effective vaccines such as polio and measles has been widely reported. Several individual, societal, and structural factors contribute to this behaviour and prevent the effectiveness of COVID-19 prevention efforts. Objectives This study sought to identify the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the seven states of North-Central, Nigeria. Methods A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents using a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO SAGE vaccine hesitancy scale and distributed via social media networks over 8-weeks. Results A total of 1,429 responses met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Among the respondents, 60.7% were males, 47.5% were between the ages of 26 and 45, and 80.1% had postsecondary education. A total of 421 respondents (29.5%) were hesitant and unwilling to receive the vaccine. The reasons for hesitancy were concerns about side effects (37.1%), doubt about the existence of COVID-19 (11.0%), and the perception of time required to receive the vaccine (9.6%). Post-secondary education (AOR: 0.49, 0.36-0.66) and people of the Islamic faith (AOR: 0.68, 0.52-0.90) were found to be associated with lower levels of hesitancy. Conclusion The study found that vaccine hesitancy is a complex problem that is linked with multiple social determinants of health as lower educational attainment, lower income and Christian faith were found to be predictors of vaccine hesitancy. Confidence, Complacency and Convenience factors were expressed by respondents as concerns about side effects, doubt about the existence of COVID-19 and time required to receive the vaccines were the most prominent reasons for unwillingness to receive the vaccine. In order to protect the public health of communities, targeted interventions are required to increase vaccine acceptance by cultivating trust in vaccines, disseminating accurate information, and engaging with community stakeholders including religious groups.
Jul 2024
Abdelhak KiouahCorresponding author
Vitamin D deficiency is known to affect bone healing 1. In this case report, the potential link between vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus deficiency and periapical lesions is explored, offering fresh insights into the complex relationship between systemic health and dental pathology. This pathology is caused by a mutation in the PHEX gene on chromosome X, which encodes a protein necessary for vitamin D synthesis and phosphate reabsorption, which are essential for the mineralization of bone and teeth 23. A 25-year-old man with rickets and vitamin D deficiency presented to our clinic with recurrent abscesses in multiple teeth. Radiographic imaging revealed periapical lesions on multiple teeth with advanced endo-perio lesions on teeth 26 and 16, and a negative cold test on all his teeth. Despite successful endodontic treatment, the patient’s compromised metabolic healing raised concerns about the prognosis. This case report highlights the intricate interplay between vitamin and mineral deficiencies and dental health, emphasizing the need for cautious management and long-term follow-up.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-24-5030
S. Gunn* JohnCorresponding author
Typhoid fever, caused by the human restricted pathogen Salmonella Typhi, remains a major global public health concern. Even after successful treatment, approximately 3-5% of patients with typhoid fail to clear the bacteria within one year and become chronic carriers. Most typhoid carriers have gallstones in their gallbladder, and biofilm formation on gallstones is highly correlated with chronic carriage. This study’s goal was to identify asymptomatic typhoid carriers in an endemic setting in Kenya, and to compare acute versus chronic isolates. A cohort of typhoid fever patients identified through blood and/or stool culture, and their household contacts, were followed up after treatment to detect longitudinal S. Typhi stool shedding. An abdominal ultrasound scan was used to identify individuals with gallstones. A total of 32 index patients and 32 household contacts were successfully followed-up. Gallstones were detected in 4 cases and 1 household contact. The duration of S. Typhi shedding was significantly longer in individuals with gallstones compared to those without, P<0.001. Eighty-three (83) S. Typhi strains were tested for susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobials and examined by in vitro biofilm formation assays. Out of 37 infected individuals, 32.4% had infections caused by multidrug resistant (MDR) S. Typhi strains and only 18.9% were infected by susceptible strains. Non-MDR strains formed significantly better biofilms in vitro than the MDR strains (P<0.001). This study provides data on S. Typhi chronic carriage that will influence public health approaches aimed at reducing typhoid transmission and the burden of infection.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-1506.jpa-22-4349
Abdou Ousseini ArdalyCorresponding author
Sorghum is important staple food for feeding humans and animals in sub-Saharan African country. Nowadays, with the advent of climate change couple to the population growth, the crop is faced to new challenges wish are gradually affecting the productivity. In Niger, a dry land country where farmers are growing sorghum at a small scale for family subsistence, the crop is confronted to biotic and abioticonstraints including nutrient deficiency in the soil. Among those constraint, Striga is the one that causes huge damage to sorghum cultivation through yield reduction. In addition, nutrient depletion in the soil are causing weed progresses in farmer’s field at a large scale. In fact, to overcome Striga problem several control methods have been successfully tested, but some of them are efficient but not accessible to farmers. It is important to control the weed by using effective and accessible way for smallholder farme in Niger. The main objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of different doses of sesame (0, 0.5 and 1.5 g) and DAP (0, 2 and 5 g) on Striga impact and sorghum grain yield. Two (2) grammes micro dosing utilization of DAP shows good result in Striga plant emergency and distribution along sorghum field. Concerning the three doses of sesame seed involve in this experiment, the micro dosing two (1.5 g) positively affect Striga effect. The combination sesame seed and DAP can significantly reduce Striga impact on sorghum cultivation and increased sorghum grain yield.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-24-4996
Haider RehanCorresponding author
The General Accounting Office released a study in August 1992 of twenty-nine sampled prescription drugs that reported an average increase in the price of approximately 138 percent between 1985 and 1991 (GAO 1992, 4, Table 1) Those and other published price indexes are increasingly being used in the public policy arena to focus the debate on the potential regulation of pharmaceutical prices and the coverage of health insurance. In an industry where products are multidimensional and the rate of technological progress is brisk, misinterpretation of unadjusted indices of drug prices can easily arise. This can lead to erroneous conclusions regarding appropriate policies for the pharmaceutical industry. Researchers have addressed numerous general theoretical issues concerning the construction and interpretation of price indices 1. Two issues of particular interest for pharmaceutical markets are the new goods problem, which deals with the introduction of generic drugs into a drug price index, and the quality problem, which recognizes that newer versions of drugs with the same basic Chemical action may be superior in certain dimensions to drugs already on the market. Specific to pharmaceutical markets, 2 have also argued that the sampling procedure used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to calculate pharmaceutical price indices is flawed. Each of those problems deserves careful analysis. This study focuses on the issue of product quality measurement and quality change.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-3146.jec-23-4573
Hafs Musa AbubakarCorresponding author
Many renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy are grown and well developed as the cost effective solution being widely used in Nigeria but the whole Africa and world at large has witnessed a dramatic increase, concern over environment and demand of energy have led the world to think about alternate energy sources such as wind, hydro, solar and fuel cells. The voltage multiplier cell was incorporated with the interleaved converter to design the DC to DC boost converter for the PV application. The proposed converter is supplied by 18V as an input voltage and produces 99V output and gives 95% of efficiency under no load and 94% under load conditions. The performance of the proposed topology was substantiated and the results achieved from the fabricated prototype are in good agreement with the design strategies. The effects of input parameters such as sun radiation and useful power input on PV system and DC-DC converter outputs were exploration for 14 days. Results confirmed that the DC-DC converter was perfectly designed and accurately constructed, when integrated with solar PV system, data were captured under no load and on load conditions.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-4211.jalr-23-4813
del Carmen Teruel Hernández EstherCorresponding author
This study systematically reviews the literature on non-pharmacological interventions for disrupted sleep-in people meeting established criteria for moderate-severe dementia, and to analyze the methodological quality of the included studies. The PubMed, PEDro, Cochrane, Virtual Health Library, APA PsycInfo databases were searched using a systematic literature review approach to identify various types of non-pharmacological treatments that improve disrupted sleep-in subjects with moderate-severe dementia. In accordance with the inclusion criteria, eight studies were systematically reviewed and analyzed according to the type of non-pharmacological treatment carried out. This systematic review showed that 50% of the studies used bright light therapy, 12.5% the use of manual therapy, and 37.5% sleep hygiene or walking or a combination of these interventions. Based on the results of the present study, although there is some evidence to support these strategies, it is not significantly supported and highlights variation in the way the interventions were delivered. Disrupted sleep is highly prevalent in people with dementia and have a negative impact on the quality of life of the sufferer and the caregiver. Non-pharmacological approaches to its treatment are increasingly popular as an alternative to drugs, whose efficacy and side effects have raised concerns among the population. Currently, there is a need to carry out more future research to establish its effectiveness and to be able to provide clear guidelines at the time of clinical practice.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-23-4750
Godar MousamiCorresponding author
Background Preconception care is a crucial aspect of maternal and child healthcare services that aims to mitigate adverse pregnancy outcomes and enhance the desired health outcomes for women, newborns, and children. Despite the continuous multi-sectoral efforts in preconception care, maternal mortality and morbidity remain significant health concerns globally. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of preconception care and its associated factors among women of reproductive age in Bheerkot Municipality, Nepal. Methodology A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 215 reproductive-age women to assess knowledge and practice regarding preconception care in Bheerkot Municipality, Nepal. Structured questionnaires were designed in the Nepali language and used in face-to-face interviews. We used a simple random sampling technique to collect quantitative data. In a statistical analysis, we employed the Chi-squared test and logistic regression analysis to identify possible predictors using the odds ratio and considered variables with p<0.05 statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. Result Out of the 215 women who participated in the study, only 46.9% had a good knowledge of preconception care. Approximately half (43.7%) of the respondents had never practiced preconception care. Among respondents who had practiced preconception care before, 47.9% reported good practice, and 52.1% reported poor practice. Age of the respondent (χ2=14.2063, P=0.000823, df=1), marital status (χ2=17.9851, P=0.000022, df=1), time to reach a health facility (χ2=30.1371, P=0.00001, df=1), and age at first pregnancy (χ2=4.7975, P=0.0285, df=1) were statistically associated with knowledge about preconception care. Women who have foreign employment as a major source of family income and whose age is from 25 to 34 years were more likely to have a better practice of preconception care than their counterparts (COR 3.5000, CI 1.3343 to 9.1805, P = 0.0109) and (COR 3.4000, CI 1.1646 to 9.9265, P = 0.0252), respectively. Additionally, out of those who practiced preconception care, most respondents (93.4%) have practiced it in government health facilities. Conclusion Respondents had relatively poor knowledge and practice of preconception care. Collaboration of governmental health institutions between multiple sectors at local levels for more education and information and a specific national protocol or policy formulation would be beneficial in improving preconception care in Nepal.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-4785.ijne-23-4798
Belle Jarvis ShivonCorresponding author
Gastric pneumatosis though rare, when seen is cause for concern. It has been associated with fulminant necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and gastric outlet obstruction, although other associations have been identified. It is not to be confused with pneumoperitoneum and can be managed conservatively as it is not always a harbinger of intestinal perforation. This case report highlights gastric pneumatosis which occurred in association with necrotizing enterocolitis in two late preterm infants. NEC accounts for 5.4% of our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admissions, however these are the first two cases of gastric pneumatosis seen in the history of our unit. It is crucial for clinical staff to be cognizant of this pathognomonic sign so that cases are not missed, and for the feeding policy that governs the management of late preterm infants to be revisited. That which specifically predisposes a baby with NEC to developing gastric pneumatosis remains unknown and warrants further research.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8681.jcsr-23-4811
Isea RaúlCorresponding author
Biotechnology has changed our relationships and perspectives of the world, influencing industry and serving as a catalyst for scientific discoveries. With this change, biotechnology enters a new age known as Biotechnology 2.0. "Modern Biotechnology" and "Artificial Intelligence" are getting married. In order to lessen food poverty, this idea incorporates the most recent advancements in genetic engineering, medicine, environmental preservation, and agricultural productivity and loss reduction strategies. The importance of openness and public involvement in addressing public concerns and advancing moral behavior in biotechnology's future, fostering cooperation among diverse stakeholders, and accomplishing this in a sustainable way for the good of society and humanity cannot be overstated, especially with the backing of biotechnology governance.
Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4701
Steiner-Hofbauer VerenaCorresponding author
Young adulthood is a sensitive phase that comes with many developmental tasks. Successful mastery of these challenges is crucial not only for long-term physical and mental health. A positive relationship with one's own body and associated healthy dietary and behavioral patterns are essential building blocks for healthy adolescence and adult life. But being overly concerned with healthy food may lead to decreased quality of life and negative (mental) health outcomes. This study was conducted via a cross-sectional online questionnaire including the Düsseldorfer Orthorexieskala(DOS), the WHO Quality of Life BREF and questions about life style and nutritional habits. We investigated the prevalence of ON and its relationship with different aspects of quality of life and lifestyle factors (sport and nu trtional habits) in a sample of young adults in Austria. No significant difference in the DOS-scores of male and female participants were found and no significant difference between students and non-students. High DOS-scores significantly impair all three domains of QoL. We did not find a significant relationship between high DOS-scores and taking nutritional supplements or being vegan, vegetarian or omnivore. Participants with high DOS-scores spent significantly more hours per week with sport/exercising.
Jul 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-23-4648
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
The purpose of the trial was to check the effects of two grapevine treatments on the plant activity and on the bioactivity and biovariability of the soil. An alkaline complex of Soluble Biobased Substances (SBS) was used in soil at 30 g per plant in a single solution. Salicylic Acid (SA) was used on leaves at 150 mg l-1 every two weeks at 50 ml plant. The plants were examined for their foliar pH and NIR spectra. The soil bioactivity was monitored by means of hay-Litterbag-NIRS (LBN) in combination with the Teabag Index (TBI), using rooibos and green tea that had been buried for 60 days. The evolution of the TBI presented here concerns the TBI-NIRS spectroscopic method used for discriminant analysis. A new algorithm was used to estimate the soil microbiome from the green Teabag spectra. The obtained results showed that the plants and the soil responded to the treatments. In fact, SBS, but not SA, lowered the leaf pH by 5%, an unexpected and original result. Both treatments increased the variability of the leaf composition, with a lower discrimination, based on the NIR spectra, from the Control (75%) to 44% (SA) and 38% (SBS). The TBI method, which is based on weights, was less efficient (67%) than the TBI-NIRS of rooibos (96%) or the LBN of hay (80%), but it was like the TBI-NIRS of green tea (74%). The LBN analyses indicated that the mycorrhizal index had increased by 8% in SA but had reduced by 7% in SBS, while both treatments reduced the activity of the microbes, which did not affect the soil respiration rate. The mineral N in the soil was substantially raised by about 11÷69%. The Taxa profiles showed marked deviations from the Control. Moreover, the SBS treatment reduced the Glomeromycota by 35%, which matched to the reduction in the mycorrhizal index. The most favored Bacteria from the treatments were Proteobateriaand Actinobacteria, with Mortierellomycota being the most penalized. Neither treatment affected the production, but both delayed the technological maturity by 9-11%, while the SBS retarded the phenolic maturity by about 18%. It has been concluded that a simple treatment of vines can affect the bioactivity in the leaves and berries as well as the biovariability of the soil.
Jun 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4587
Bhoite RachanaCorresponding author
Background Cachexia is highly prevalent in cancer patients and is responsible for as much as 20% of all cancer deaths. Nevertheless, there is little emphasis on cachexia in routine clinical practice. This study looks at the efficacy and tolerability of a protein and energy-dense nutritional supplement with immunonutrients on cachexia in cancer patients. Methods This was a three-month, prospective, open-label study of patients undergoing radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy for head and neck or gastrointestinal or lung cancer. Efficacy endpoints were mean change in muscle strength, acute phase proteins (albumin and pre-albumin), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, weight, Glasgow prognostic score (GPS), and nutritional status at the end of the study period. Results The study population consists of 47 (79.66%) males and 12 (20.34%) females with a mean age of 47.98 ± 12.16 years. The mean change in muscle strength, albumin, pre-albumin, CRP levels, and weight for the overall study population was 0.17 ± 12.09 kg (P=0.9145), -0.05 ± 0.53 g/dl, (P=0.5888), -0.01 ± 0.09 g/dl (P=0.2951), 0.50 ± 37.41 mg/dl (P=0.9258), -0.59 ± 3.70 kg (P=0.2265), respectively. At the end of the study period, there was a significant improvement in the nutritional status concerning total calories, protein, and fat intake. Conclusion Protein and energy-dense nutritional supplement with immunonutrients might help in the improvement of muscle strength, GPS, and dietary intake. The addition of the supplement to the diet regime of patients with cancer cachexia increases their daily consumption of proteins which might translate to multimodal clinical benefits.
May 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-9241.jrd-23-4566
Krishna C VeligandlaCorresponding author
Safe and effective antitussive therapy remains a significant area of unmet need for cough management. Antitussive drugs are commonly used cough suppressants and include centrally acting (opioids and non-opioids) cough suppressants and peripherally acting antitussives. Authors searched PubMed, Google Scholar and additional studies from reference lists via cross-referencing to identify studies assessing levodropropizine for the treatment of cough. Of the 748 studies identified, 13 were included. Recent clinical evidence, guideline recommendations and findings from this review suggest that levodropropizine is a peripheral antitussive which reduces cough intensity, frequency, and nocturnal awakenings in children and adults and provides better efficacy outcomes with a more favourable risk/benefit ratio compared to centrally acting antitussive agents which pose greater safety concerns and present an unacceptable risk–benefit profile. This review is aimed at Indian primary care physicians for making effective cough management decisions where the clinical evidence needs to be translated to clinical practice. Key Messages The usage of currently available centrally acting antitussive agent is greatly limited by their central depressing action and frequent side effect. The findings of this review indicate that levodropropizine is an effective antitussive agent and well tolerated in the management of cough in patients of all ages.
May 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-23-4521
El- shaer AyaCorresponding author
Background The emergence and spread of carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria pose a serious threat to human health. Currently, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying carbapenem -resistance and their prevalence among APEC in Egypt. The aim of this study was to detect APEC in clinically diseased broiler chickens collected from broilers farms located at Dakahalia governorates, asses their virulence –associated genes, detect the antimicrobial susceptibility of recovered isolates and to detect genes encoding carbapenemase resistant. Methods A total of 100 organ tissue samples subjected to conventional culture technique for isolation of E. coli. The confirmed E. coli were subjected to disc diffusion method for detection their susceptibility to antimicrobials. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for detection of APEC virulence genes (hlyA, iutA, ompT, iss, iroN) and six carbapenem- resistant genes namely, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaKPC, blaOXA-48 blaGES and blaNDM,. Results Forty isolates were confirmed to be E. coli among them, three or more APEC virulence- genes were detected from all isolates. The hlyA gene was detected in 90% (36/40), iroN in 95% (38/40), ompT in 97.5% (39/40), iutA in 92.5% (35/40) and iss was detected in 95% (38/40) of APEC isolates The tested isolates exhibited a remarkable resistance to ampicillin (97.5%), cefuroxime (92.5%), clindamycin (90%), chloramphenicol (62.5%), doxycycline (45%), amikacin (25%) and ciprofloxacin (12.5%). While, the retrieved isolates displayed 100 % sensitivity against imipenem, meropenem, ertapenem, ceftazidime and colistin. Concerning carbapenemase-encoding genes, blaIMP, blaVIM, blaKPC, blaOXA-48, blaGES couldn’t be detected among the E. coli isolates, while, blaNDM was confirmed in three isolates . Conclusion The detection of NDM as one of the carbapenem resistant genes reveals that the resistant strains are not only capable of infecting humans, but that carbapenams- resistant E. coli (CREC) has also started to pose a threat to poultry farm and other livestock animals. This may give rise to worries that these food-carrying creatures could infect humans or colonize them.
Apr 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-23-4528
Wang LeiCorresponding author
Rapidly spreading Covid-19 virus and its variants, especially in metropoli- tan areas around the world, became a major health public concern. The tendency of Covid-19 pandemic and statistical modelling represent an urgent challenge in the United States for which there are few solutions. In this paper, we demonstrate com- bining Fourier terms for capturing seasonality with ARIMA errors and other dynamics in the data. Therefore, we have analyzed 156 weeks COVID-19 dataset on national level using Dynamic Harmonic Regression model, including simulation analysis and ac- curacy improvement from 2020 to 2023. Most importantly, we provide a new advanced pathways which may serve as targets for developing new solutions and approaches.
Apr 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-23-4550
Marks RayCorresponding author
Aim This review examines the research base concerning hand osteoarthritis and changes in muscle mass and quality known as sarcopenia and the possible use of vitamin-D supplementation for reducing this potentially adverse functionally disabling state. Methods Publications detailing a possible link between hand osteoarthritis manifestations and sarcopenia, plus those discussing vitamin D as a possible intervention strategy for minimizing sarcopenia in the older adult were systematically sought and reviewed. Results Collectively, data reveal hand osteoarthritis in the older population is common, and is possibly affected by age as well as disease associated muscle mass declines. Vitamin D, a powerful steroid required by the body to foster many life affirming physiological functions may help reduce the degree of any prevailing sarcopenia and thereby some degree of hand osteoarthritis disability. Conclusions Older individuals with hand osteoarthritis, as well as healthy older adults at risk for sarcopenia are likely to benefit physically from efforts to clarify the extent of this association and if indicated, to examine and intervene thoughtfully to maximize muscle composition as well as safe vitamin D levels where subnormal. Researchers can make highly notable impacts in multiple spheres in this regard and are encouraged to do so.
Mar 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-0904.ijoe-21-3884
Keshaverz VajiheCorresponding author
Background and Purpose Public health problems are caused by the emergence of environmental pollution and infectious diseases, which have caused concern around the world. The public health threat affects the relationship between people. Population growth and associated pressures increase difficulties associated with effective means of maintaining public health. The diseases transmitted from human and livestock communication, water pollution, air pollution, and environmental pollutants urge us to find new solutions to address these problems. Understanding the environmental and environmental health is a prerequisite for protecting public health. In Iran, like other countries in the world, the issue of environmental protection and its compliance with the first program of economic, social and cultural development of the Islamic Republic has begun and expanded in the future. In this regard, new perspectives are being introduced that will bring about dramatic changes at various levels of planning, processes and specialized sectors such as civil, industrial and educational sectors. The training of engineers in this regard can play a very important role in refining the attitudes of young engineers and using these bases in their specialized activities. One of the important tasks of universities is to provide a suitable platform for such training. In this regard, it is essential that the major industrial universities of the country develop various programs in this field. Materials and Methods The present study is a review of the type of validity that is performed through search of authoritative scientific databases such as PubMed and Scopus, Google scholar, PubMed using the key words of building safety and health, HSE, and prevention methods are the latest information. Results Implementing the principles of HSE in various construction, industrial and other projects requires time, because any change that is considered in the system requires a change of attitude, which in turn requires time to adapt and adapt to the new conditions. The conditions for the projects in this research are their current conditions, and the next research, after a while, can determine the percentage of project progress in terms of HSE. Conclusion In order to comply with the principle of HSE cases, there is a need for training. These trainings should be executed at different levels and levels of contracting and monitoring so that the level of awareness of the risks involved in the development of civil operations between the personnel reaches a common frontier.
Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-2248.jwl-23-4439
Haile Chankallo TamiratCorresponding author
Ethiopia is one of the countries found in the eastern horn of Africa, which is endowed with beautiful landscape and topography from which diverse habitats and fauna composition. The objective of this paper is to review relevant documents on distribution of protected area and large-sized mammals order in Ethiopia. The Method of the data were by compiling related information from different sources like published articles grey literature and other office reports from concerned institutions. Altitudinal and geographical variations made the Ethiopia to be among the biodiversity-rich nations in the world. Mammal fauna in Ethiopia consists of 326 species, among 144 genera, 43 families and 14 orders; out of which 32 mammals of the country categories under critically threated group. Among the mammals in Ethiopia eight of them are endemic. Among mammals’ antelopes are flagships (charismatic). The large mammals are mainly concentrated in the south and southwest border.
Oct 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4329
Adejoh Attah TimothyCorresponding author
National Space Research and Development Agency, Obasanjo Space Centre, Umaru Musa Ydar'adua express way, P.M.B. 437, Lugbe, Abuja
Introduction Malaria in pregnancy is a serious public health concern that could result in detrimental health outcomes for pregnant women and their foetuses. In Nigeria, there is still a significant risk of the disease epidemic and adverse effects especially in pregnancy. The aim of this study is to assess the socio-demographic factors associated with Intermittent Preventive Treatment and health seeking behaviours for malaria in pregnancy among women of reproductive ages in Nigeria Methods Using the National Demographic Survey (NDHS) 2018 data, a cross sectional study was conducted to assess socio-demographic factors associated with Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) for Malaria among Nigerian women of reproductive ages. Result Majority were between ages 30-39 years (39.5%), married/cohabiting (91.8%), Muslims (59.5%), from the north (68.9%), uneducated ( 49.9%), poor (47.5%), and grand parous (65.7%). 63.4% of the women had taken fansidar for malaria in pregnancy while only 6.1% had received healthcare for malaria from informal sources. Except for marital status, all socio-demographic variables (regions, highest educational level, wealth index, age group, religion and parity) were significantly associated with intake of IPT. Additionally, region, education, wealth index, age group, marital status and religion were associated with health seeking behaviour for malaria in pregnancy (P<.05). After control for other variables, wealth index, highest educational level, married/cohabiting marital status and religion was significantly associated with intake of IPT while region, primary and secondary education, poorer and richest wealth index, widowed/separation influenced health seeking for malaria in pregnancy (P<.05). Conclusion The National Malaria Elimination programme should evaluate existing policies that develop interventions that are centred on high risk population in order to prevent malaria in pregnancy while improving health seeking behaviours of women of reproductive ages.
Oct 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4325
Rutayisire ErigeneCorresponding author
Department of public Health, Mount Kenya University Rwanda Kigali Rwanda
The aim of this study is determine the prevalence and factors associated with caesarean section among women delivered at Kirehe District Hospital. A retrospective study was conducted among women delivered at Kirehe District Hospital from January 2018 to December 2019. The medical files of all women delivered at the hospital who meet the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Data were checked for completeness, cleaned, coded and entered into excel sheet, and then exported to SPSS version 22.0 for further analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to estimate the prevalence and description of study participants. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate risk for CS with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The study was conducted in accordance with the research protocol Mount Kenya University Rwanda research ethical committee. The majority 806 (69.9%) of women who delivered at Kirehe district hospital from January 2018 to December 2019 were aged 22-35 years old. The prevalence of C-section at Kirehe District Hospital was 23.1%. Demographic and economic factors associated with Caesaren section in bivariate and multivariate analysis was respondent’s type of health insurance where women who used private health insurance were 3 times more likely to deliver by C-section. The findings from multivariate analysis revealed that women who experienced eclampisa had 45% risk of C-Setion compared to those without Eclampsia. Women in rural area of Rwanda seem to have increased access to and use of CS. However, the significant increase in the rate of CS is of concern due to the potential of unnecessary CS.
Oct 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4316
E. Moro GuidoCorresponding author
Board of Directors of AIBLUD (Italian Association of Donor Human Milk Banks), Milan, Italy
Background Growing scientific evidence points to the benefits of human milk for the growth and development of a newborn. Compelling evidence has confirmed the benefits not only for full-term babies but also for preterm infants. Objective This survey was planned by the Italian Ministry of Health together with the Italian Association of Donor Human Milk Banks (AIBLUD) and aimed to evaluate the activity of human milk banks (HMBs) in Italy in the period 2018-2020, analyzing several items and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Following the two surveys performed in 2012 and 2016, a third survey was planned in the year 2021 to evaluate possible changes in the activity of the Human Milk Banks (HMBs) operating in Italy. A questionnaire was sent to all the 41 HMBs officially operating in Italy in the year 2021 with the purpose to obtain national data concerning milk banks activity, number of donors, volume of human milk collected, and other information related to the years 2018, 2019 and 2020. Additional questions related to the impact of the COVID-19 on the activity of HMBs in the year 2020 were included. Therefore the questionnaire proposed in this third survey collected fundamental data on the donation of human milk with the implications related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results 90% of the banks (37/41) responded to this survey. The collected data confirm the results of the second survey (2016), with a high level of adherence to the Ministerial Guidelines and the AIBLUD recommendations. The application of the principles of the HACCP system continues to improve (89%), while in the last three years there has been a sharp decline in the home collection service for donor human milk (68%). This decline is mainly linked to the interruption of this service due to the limitations imposed by the pandemic. In 2020 (the year of the COVID-19 pandemic) there was a clear reduction in the number of donors with a return to the values of 2016. The volumes of milk collected, and the average duration of donation, however, remained high. The reasons linked to the reduction in the number of donors are described. Conclusion This survey underlines the high quality standard of Italian HMBs and the usefulness of this service for the national health policy. Despite the difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Italian HMBs have maintained an efficient and safe service and have guaranteed the collection of satisfactory volumes of donor milk. Lack of information represents the most important barrier to the donation of human milk.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4197
A. Attah TimothyCorresponding author
National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Obasanjo Space Centre, Umaru Musa Yar'adua expressway, P.M.B. 437, Lugbe, Abuja, Nigeria
Aim and Objective Despite the growing concerns about the relationship between exposure to radiofrequency radiation (RFR) and detrimental health effects due to the changes in biological processes of experimental animals, there is still ongoing debate on the significance of these findings in causing significant public health problems with the growing advancement in internet technology. The aim of this study is to review existing literature on the effects of high RFR on wistar rats. Method A search was conducted on Google scholar and PubMed to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles to be included into the review. Studies eligible for inclusion included free full text articles on wistar rats exposed to ≥ 2.45GHz RFR conducted in the past 5 years. Studies included in this review were written or transcribed in English language. From 286 titles, 36 eligible studies were included in the review and assessed for quality using the Strengthening the Report of Observational Studies in Epidemiology – Veterinary Extension (STROBE-Vet) quality assessment tool. Results Studies included in this review generally had good quality (>60%) based on the STROBE-Vet assessment. This review identified numerous biological changes in wistar rats exposed to high RFR including variations in biochemical, cholinergic, genetic, histopathologic, psychological, optical, and dermatological parameters. In this review, studies identified variations in protein and liver enzymes while high RFR was found to induce oxidative stress and cellular damage of exposed wistar rats compared to the unexposed groups. This was seen in the changes in protein, lipids, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Studies also identified changes in expression of genes and neurotransmitters with imbalance in hormones. In addition, this review identified structural changes of cells, tissues and organs indicative of apoptosis, damage and death. Exposed rats were identified to have behavioral changes indicative of anxiety and memory decline while studies identified optical and dermatologic changes in exposed rats compared to the unexposed. Conclusion With numerous biological changes identified in wistar rats exposed to high RFR, there is an increasing risk of detrimental health events giving the advancement in internet technology and limited regulations to control exposures to RFR. Therefore, studies should be conducted to identify strategies to mitigate human exposure to RFR while policies are developed and enforced to protect human health.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-22-4217
O. Henderson JeffreyCorresponding author
Department of Science and Mathematics, Judson University, Elgin, IL 60123, USA
Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the HEXA gene, which encodes the ɑ subunit of the enzyme β-hexosaminidase A. Lacking this key enzyme in GM2 ganglioside catabolism, individuals who are homozygous for HEXA mutations suffer from abnormal accumulation of GM2 ganglioside in brain and nerve cells, ultimately resulting in the progressive deterioration of the central nervous system. TSD is one of three disorders characterized by β-hexosaminidase deficiency; Sandhoff disease (SD) and the AB variant arise by mutations in the HEXB and GM2A genes respectively, which disrupt other points of GM2 ganglioside degradation. Characterized by developmental delay and stagnation, muscular weakness, coordination deficits, seizures, and eventual hearing and vision loss, these three disorders are clinically indistinguishable and occur in three forms defined by age of onset. While there is a much higher incidence of TSD in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, community carrier screening and counseling initiatives have reduced disease prevalence to about the equivalent of non-Jewish populations; however, such efforts have raised ethical concerns in the Jewish community that are increasingly relevant in light of scientific and medical advancements. Currently, treatments for TSD and its related disorders focus on symptom management, with gene therapies and the application of modified CRISPR-Cas-9 technology being explored.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-9241.jrd-22-4181
K. Al Miraj A.Corresponding author
Research Assistant, Dept of Vascular Surgery, BSM Medical University Dhaka, Bangladesh
Introduction Worldwide, the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major public health concern; On the basis of epidemiologic data, by 2020, COPD will be the third leading cause of death worldwide. Objective To assess the frequency of Microalbuminuria and the presence of Hypoxemia in patients with COPD. Materials and Methods Study Design Cross-sectional observational study. Place of Study Department of Medicine & Respiratory Medicine in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH). Study Period Six months after approval of the protocol Study Population Patient suffering from COPD and admitted in Department of Medicine & Respiratory medicine, DMCH, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Total 100 samples were included in this study. COPD usually presents with a history of chronic cough with sputum production or exertional breathlessness which may be associated with relevant clinical findings and a post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC less than 0.7. In most cases it is associated with smoking Results Total 100 patients of COPD were included in the study. Mean age was 58.16±5.4 years ranging from 50 to 74 years. Out of 100 patients, majority (42%) were from age group 55 to 60 years. Among all, 82% patients were male and 18% were female, of 100 patients, majority (30%) were day laborer. Only 2% were unemployed. The percentage of housewives was 18%. Other 34% were businessman and service holders. COPD severity was assessed using GOLD guideline. Out of 100 COPD patients, 38% had severe COPD (GOLD stage III). 16 % patients were in mild (Stage I) and 32% patients were in moderate stage (Stage II). The condition was very severe for 14% patients (Stage IV). Of 100 COPD patients, 30% had microalbuminuria. Among 100 COPD patients, chance of microalbuminuria increases among COPD patients with the increase of age significantly. There is smoking history of 36 pack year for COPD patients with microalbuminuria. Of 100 patients 26% were hypoxemic. The average forced expiratory volume (FEV1%) was 37.40 with standard deviation 14.48 for patients with microalbuminuria. The PaO2 and PaCO2 is 63.06 with standard deviation 7.09 and 46.09 with standard deviation 2.43 for COPD patients with microalbuminuria respectively. All of these characteristics are significant with p-value 0.00. However, the body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were not found significant. The patients who had PaO2 less than 70 mmHg were considered hypoxemic. The patients who had microalbuminuria among them 87% were hypoxemic. Only 13% patients were free from hypoxemia who had microalbuminuria. Patients without microalbuminuria had no history of hypoxemia. There is significant relation exists between hypoxemia and the presence of microalbuminuria (p<0.5). Conclusion In this study, about one-fourth of the patients have hypoxemia and more than one fourth of the patients have microalbuminuria. Stage III was more frequent among the study population but there was no association between severity grading and presence of microalbuminuria. However, significant relation is found between co-existence of both microalbuminuria and hypoxemia in COPD patients.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-22-4106
Sgoifo AnnalisaCorresponding author
ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Department of Neurosciences, Division of Neurology, Piazza Ospedale Maggiore, 3 - Milano, 20162, IT
Background SARS-CoV-2 pandemic represented an unexpected psychological stress, being a major threat to health and limiting daily’s life, especially for the fragile population. How could the people with (pw) Multiple Sclerosis (MS) cope with this emergency? Objective To observe the pwMS’s psychological reaction in comparison with non affected persons and to evaluate the impact of lifestyle changes on psychological symptoms, due to the pandemic. Methods The study was observational, retrospective, controlled, focused on good clinical practice and conducted at Niguarda Hospital. PwMS and controls filled a web survey containing anamnestic data, habits, depression and anxiety self-questionnaires. The primary outcome was the pwMS’s psychological anxiety and depression score compared with controls. Results On April, 10 2020, 88/165 pwMS and 187 controls joined the study. Unexpectedly, no significant differences between groups were observed for depression mean score: 6.6(5.2) in pwMS and 6.2(4.8) in controls and for anxiety: 5.9(4.8) and 5.0(4.2). PwMS focused on health concern more often than controls, but they respected the restrictions more easily and benefited from practical activities more than controls. Conclusion PwMS showed a proper psychological resilience in comparison with controls. These findings might guide the clinical interviews and suggest both the areas to be supported and the strengths to be promoted in pwMS.
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4167
Ozichu Ekama SabdatCorresponding author
Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research 6 Edmund Crescent P.M.B 2013, Yaba, Lagos Nigeria
Objectives This study aims to evaluate the challenges of implementing non-pharmaceutical interventions, assess adherence, accessibility to prevention materials and identify requirements for the control of the spread of COVID-19 among individuals living in a slum-setting in Lagos, Nigeria. Methods This is a five-month cross-sectional study conducted in Makoko, Lagos an urban-slum community. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, living conditions and adherence to COVID-19 prevention strategies were obtained with a semi-structured questionnaire. Logistics-regression model was used to determine factors associated with adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures. Results There was a total of 357 participants who had a mean age of 45.8 ± 12.9 years. Majority were males (62.2%), married (83.8%), self-employed (66.4%), and had secondary education (31.4%). Most participants (93.8%) had no space for self-isolation as majority lived in a one-room apartment (72.8%), shared toilets/kitchen space (64.4 %), had no constant source of water supply (61.9%) and buy water (62.5%). About 98.8% are aware of the COVID-19 pandemic but only 33.9% adhered. Most of the participants disclosed inability to purchase face masks/ hand sanitizers (68.9%). After adjusting for covariates, the ability to afford facemasks/hand sanitizers (P < 0.0001, aOR 6.646; 95% CI: 3.805-11.609), living alone (P < 0.0001, aOR 3.658; 95% CI: 1.267-10.558), and ability to buy water (aOR: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.14-0.50), had greater odds of association with adherence to the non-pharmaceutical COVID-19 preventive measures. Conclusion The lack of isolation space among majority of the respondents calls for concern. Inability to purchase prevention materials is a major factor influencing poor compliance to COVID-19 prevention strategies.
Apr 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4155
Salissou Seck Mbaye MBAYECorresponding author
Cardiology Department of the Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital, Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso)
The diabetic is most of the time admitted in emergency for acute complications. An inventory of these complications will guide promotional programs aimed at preventing the occurrence of these complications. This study was conducted with the aim of identifying acute complications and decompensation factors in diabetics admitted in emergency to the Souro Sanou University Hospital Center (CHUSS).It was an observational study, of descriptive transversal type, with prospective collection for 4 months. It concerned diabetics admitted to the medical and surgical emergency departments of the CHUSS. A total of 90 diabetics were included in the study. The average age was 58.81 ± 14.7 years. Type 2 diabetes accounted for 85.6% of cases. The diagnosis of diabetes was known in 74.4% of cases. The reasons for consultation were dominated by impaired conscientiousness and fever, 54.4% and 50% respectively. Metabolic complications were found in 44.4% of patients. They were dominated by hypoglycemia, which accounted for 55.3% of cases. Dietary error was the main decompensation factor in cases of hypoglycemia and was reported in 71.4% of cases. Metabolic complications are common in diabetics admitted in emergency at the CHUSS. Decompensation factors are mostly preventable.
Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2638-4469.japb-22-4102
Abu O.D.,Corresponding author
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.
The safety of plant-derived bioactive compounds has become a global concern. The present study investigated the dose response of total saponins isolated from the stem bark of Dialiumguineense. Adultmale Wistar rats (n = 15) weighing 170 – 190 g (mean weight = 180 ± 10 g) were randomly assigned to three groups (5 rats per group). The rats received varied doses of total saponins isolated from the stem bark of the medicinal plant (50 - 150 mg/kg body weight, bwt) orally for a period of 9 days. The concentration of fasting blood glucose (FBG) was used as the therapeutic index.The results of the analysis revealed that total saponins isolated from the stem bark of D. guineense significantly reduced the Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) levels of normal Wistar rats (p < 0.05). The graded and quantal dose-response curves showed that150 mg/kg bwt was effective in reducing the blood glucose of rats (produced the best hypoglycemic effect). The study concluded that total saponins isolated from the stem bark of D. guineense possesses hypoglycemic effect at a relatively good dose.
Jan 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-4044
Chukwuma Sr ChrysanthusCorresponding author
The Chrysanthus Centre for Future-Oriented Studies, Centre For Future-Oriented Studies, CTR Future-Oriented Ltd, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
This paper attempts to present the dissemination and transmission dynamics of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases and the underlying features of gain-of-function research and geopolitics in the ambient within and across borders. Research and publication are relevant from perspectives in the management of local and global health because disease is perspicuously a geopolitical issue ostensibly linked to gain-of-function research where health diplomacy undergirds present and future global functionalities regarding the emergence and reemergence of infectious diseases. These have generated vehement reactions with propensity for extreme geopolitics and gain-of-function natural and anthropogenic activities. Geopolitical parameters and gain-of-function issues impact on the social determinants of health and vice versa. The convening and convergence of countries for unprecented epidemic or pandemic treaty settings or other formulations to confront emerging and reemerging infectious diseases will afford considerable opportunities concerning challenges in action, preparedness and response. Provisions are pertinent for legal instruments, effective and efficient systems to curb future threats and outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Nov 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-4004
K. Ceesay EbrimaCorresponding author
University of Gambia, Banjul, Gambia.
Economic statistics concerning the quinquennial features of Agriculture employment (A), net Migration (M), Donor aid (D) and Personal remittances (P), available for over forty years from five West African countries have here been related to the GDP (G). The overall results of a multilinear regression (R2 0.84) have confirmed that the GD ratio, which is an index of aid efficiency, is significantly and positively driven by the PD ratio (high P and low D - favorable) and the PA ratio (high P and low A - favorable), but negatively driven by the PG ratio ( a higher D efficiency is obtained for constant G and lower P). A higher migration flux corresponds to a non-significant rise in the GD ratio. The five countries are clustered, by means of a principal component analysis, into three types. Partial least square regressions fitted to the GD ratio within each cluster provide a long-term polydromic function that highlights certain particular cluster features: reactive to forcing factors, such as Donor diminutions (SEN), active, as driven by Personal remittance (MLI), and mostly entropic for GMB, GNB and MRT. The learnt from the database is that Donor variations may follow different evolutions of the GD ratio in the three clusters.
Sep 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-21-3926
Patoka Guillaume Kalonji MuasaCorresponding author
University of Liège, Department of Public Health Sciences, Belgium
Background The nutritional situation in prisons of developing countries and the health status of inmates remain a major human rights concern. The objective of the study was to assess the nutritional status of inmates jailed in a prison of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted over a 4-month period in the Central Prison of Mbuji-Mayi, DRC. Three hundred inmates were selected according to the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). Severe malnutrition was defined according to Buzby index and Nutritional Risk Index (NRI). Data were analyzed by Stata™ (version12.0). Results The inmates were aged between 18 and 70 years and primarily males (88.7%). Of them, 24% were suffering from severe malnutrition and 62% of moderate malnutrition as based on the NRI. At the time of study, 88% of inmates were incarcerated for more than 6 months. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that factors independently associated with severe malnutrition were incarceration of more than 6 months (OR=5.1; 95% CI (1.5-17.4)), origin of food (prison vs. family or NGO) (OR=4.7; 95% CI (1.6-13.8)) presence of tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus and/or intestinal infections (OR=2.6; 95% CI (1.4-4.7)). Conclusions The nutritional situation in the Central Prison of Mbuji-Mayi is precarious. There is urgent need to supply enough nutrient-rich food to improve health of inmates.
Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-21-3864
Stanley Raj A.Corresponding author
Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Loyola College, Chennai, Tamilnadu-600034, India.
This paper wishes to address the main concerns of food patterns and food consumption during the epidemic with quantitative analysis from various regions of Tamil Nadu. It was noted that it is more important than natural foods. The current epidemic had a profound effect on the humankind, recognizing the importance of staying healthy is the crucial aspect. In time, further research was conducted on the diet of the Indian subcontinent. Everyone should know about the importance of health and how nutrition contributes to the health and equality of people around the world. The main purpose of this study was to identify the importance of good nutrition and disease prevention.
Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3935
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
Background Anxiety and depression are key barriers to healthy aging and greatly heighten the risk for many negative health issues that seriously impact life quality. Aim This mini review examines the potential of low level laser treatments or photobiomodulation therapy for ameliorating severe anxiety and depression in older adults. Methods and Procedures Articles that adressed the current topic of interest extracted from PUBMED and Google Scholar were carefully and presented in narrative form. Results Photobiomodulation therapy appears to be a safe efficacious modality for ameliorating various degrees of anxiety and depression and for improving cognition, and is supported by several well established mechanisms of action at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Conclusion More research to examine who might benefit most from this form of therapy, and in what respect in this area of growing global concern and few intervention options is strongly warranted.
May 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3632
Placide MUTABAZICorresponding author
Save the Children International, Nkumba University, School of postgraduate and research, P.O. Box 237 Entebbe-Uganda
Introduction Reporting of suspected or confirmed communicable diseases is paramount. Although physicians have primary responsibility for reporting, school nurses, laboratory directors, infection control practitioners, daycare center directors, health care facilities, state institutions and any other individuals providing health care services are also required to report communicable disease. Therefore, community health needs assessment in urban communities remains an essential instrument for the rapid and accurate dissemination of epidemiological information on cases and outbreaks of diseases under the national health regulations and other communicable diseases of public health importance, including emerging or re-emerging infections. Purpose of the Study Todescribe relevant medical needs of townspeople so that treatment plans can be developed accordingly. Methods The Study was a cross-sectional with qualitative approach. In-depth interviews and focus group interviews was used as research technique. Data was categorized to look for emerging themes then further distilled to identify any abstract themes that could be understood holistically. Results Urban decision-makers need to advocate the problem of human resources in public health facilities and the mutual health insurance to revise its insurance policy to allow their clients to be received even in private clinics. Dental services was wished to be available in public health centers. Study participants suggested that new useful information could be posted in private public premises rather than to be in public institutions only. Conclusion The patient waiting time, dental services in health centers, and the way of dissemination new health information, mutual health insurance and insufficient human resources are the major concerns of townspeople that they wish improvement.
May 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-5773.jcdp-21-3799
Bajaj AnubhaCorresponding author
Consultant Histopathologist
Preface Frequently, benign bone tumours are an incidental discovery wherein clinical symptoms are contingent to tumour location and magnitude and manifest as localized pain, swelling, skeletal deformities or pathologic fracture. Radiographic imaging is a cogent methodology of discerning the neoplasms.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3782
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
A systematic use of biofertilizers can improve both the quality of a farming system and the parameters of milk. Some issues related to biofertilization experiments on six farms in the Po Valley (NW Italy) involved in the production of milk from dairy cattle fed maize silage or grazed on hay produced from permanent meadows are reported in this paper. Biofertilized maize was found to lower the live stem pH by about 2.3%, and NIR spectroscopy foreshadowing major changes in the composition. Overall, the plant silage was improved in quantity (+10%) but also in quality, as shown by the delayed maturity stage of the leaves (crop maturity index -4%), the lower indigestible NDF content (-7%), and the higher digestible carbohydrates and protein in the whole plants. Such favorable feeding conditions, together with the improved palatability of the feed ration, boosted the nutrient values of the protein (+4.6%) and fat contents (+5.7%) in the milk. Moreover, the functional properties of the milk were ameliorated, as testified by the higher levels of vitamin A (+27%) and vitamin E (+25%) and the reduced levels of saturated fatty acids (-6%), especially myristic (-18%) and stearic (-32%) acids, while the unsaturated acids increased by 15%. As far as economy aspects are concerned, the biofertilization of maize for silage has led to consistent rewards pertaining to the marginal price of the milk, which in turn has led to a value chain increase of about 9%, because of the fields cultivation, but mainly of the cow transformation in milk quality issues. On another farm, intensive maize was substituted with permanent biofertilized meadows, over a greening path, and a + 17% value chain increase was obtained that already derived mainly from the best price for milk quality parameters. Such an evolutionary leap toward a new vision of sustainable agriculture for the environment and for animals, in which a better quality of products, animal welfare and company budget are combined with soil biofertilization, can be considered a bonanza.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3752
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
Background Falls injuries continue to contribute to numerous premature deaths as well as high disability levels, and excess morbidity rates among older adults, worldwide. But can vitamin D account for excess falls injuries among older adults? This review specifically focuses on what is known about vitamin D in the context of postural stability or balance control, both fairly consistent independent predictors of falls among older adults. Methods and Procedures Drawn largely from a review of current relevant English language peer reviewed research publications published over the last 10 years detailing the relationship between vitamin D levels and balance control among the elderly, as this relates to falls injuries, evidence for any emerging consensus on this controversial topic was sought. Used to conduct the search were various key word combinations including: falls injuries and older adults, vitamin D or vitamin D deficiency and balance or postural control. The database used predominantly to provide input into this largely descriptive assessment and narrative overview was PUBMED. Results The prevailing data show falls injuries currently constitute a widespread costly major impediment to successful aging and longevity for many older adults, despite numerous efforts to prevent this disabling set of events over the past two to three decades. However, no consistent association appears to exist between the variables of vitamin D, falls, and balance attributes in the older population-despite years of research, regardless of study approach, and a strong rationale for hypothesizing a clinically meaningful relationahip. Conclusion It is not possible to arrive at any universal recommendation concerning the value of vitamin D supplementation as regards its possible influence on balance capacity among older adults in the realm of falls prevention efforts, as has been frequently proposed. However, until more definitive research is conducted, there still appears sufficient justification for considering the screening of vulnerable aging adults for serum vitamin D levels, along with balance impairments, and intervening as required in the case of deficits in either or both of these possible falls determinants.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3676
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
There is currently a lack of rapid indirect analysis methods for the assessment of the effects of soil microbiota on vine production. Fifteen clusters of two Nebbiolo and Erbaluce varieties were identified in five vineyards belonging to a cooperative of winemakers in North West Italy, according to the differences in the NDVI index, as monitored by the Crop Monitoring OES system. The vineyards were surveyed in 2019 and the experimental monitoring of 75 vines was conducted in 2020. The first indirect method (Litterbag-NIRS) involved examining hay litterbags with a smart SCiOTM device. The average litterbag-NIR spectra of the clusters, as far as the yield is concerned, were closely fitted with the measured production yield, with an R2 cross-validated value of 0.91 in the Nebbiolo vines and 0.67 in the Erbaluce vines. The results in yield were accounted for by considering a few dominant variables in both vines, namely the microbic respiration of the soil and the crude protein of the litterbag (positive), opposed to the soil NO3--N and litterbag ADF (negative). The pruning wood was also closely correlated to the litterbag spectra. A second rapid method, foliar pH coupled with the NIR spectroscopy of the leaves, was then performed. The overall results predicted from the foliar NIRS were 0.73 for yield and 0.79 for the Canopy Cover. However, the most interesting result concerned the yield regressions on the foliar pH, which were clearly negative in both vines and of a similar amount: -5.15 kg/pH in Nebbiolo (R2 0.68) and -5.63 kg/pH (R2 0.23) in Erbaluce. Litterbag-NIRS, which shows a high predictive capacity, and foliar pH - with or without foliar-NIRS - are indirect and frugal methods that can be recommended for a rational assessment of the microbial soil fertility of vineyards.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3642
H. M. Adam AbubakerCorresponding author
Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Khartoum North, Sudan
Today; there is an increasing demand for fertilizers due to the intensive and extensive agricultural activity to meet the ever increasing demand for food and fiber by the rapid world population expansion. This study is mainly concern with the Bat Guano which is usually collected from the Caves. This experiment was conducted at the Farm of the College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Alkadaro, Khartoum North-Sudan during the period from July to November, 2017 with the objective to investigate the efficacy of Bat Guano and Nitrogen fertilizer on growth and yield of Serena and Opera (Helianthusannus, L.) Hybrid Sunflower cultivars. The study was based on split-plot experiment in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four (4) replications. Data pertaining Plant Height (cm), Leaf Number (LN), Leaf Area (LA), Leaf Area Index (LAI) and Seed Weight (SW) were studied. The said data were analyzed using Statistic 8- software. The results reflected significant increase in plant height (F= 6.05, P < 0.0001, leaf number (F=2.37, P<0.0388), leaf area (F= 7.44, P<0.001), leaf area index (F= 6.53, P < 0.0001) and seed weight of both Sunflower cultivars respectively due to application of Guano and Nitrogen fertilizer compared to the control. It also reflected non-significant difference between all studied traits as application of either Guano or Nitrogen fertilizer. Moreover, all studied characters of the two cultivars have similarly responded to the application of the two types of fertilizers. Further studies are recommended to assess the benefits from the use of Bat Guano as a fertilizer.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3652
Alghamdi MohammedCorresponding author
Infectious disease consultant, King Fahad General Hospital
Background The use of hydroxychloroquine in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic raised significant concerns as regards safety and efficacy in hospitalized patients. The objective was to examine the effect of hydroxychloroquine on clinical improvement and mortality among hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted at four general hospitals in the Western region, Saudi Arabia. Patients who had absolute or relative contraindication for using hydroxychloroquine were excluded. Patients concomitantly receiving other medications including azithromycin, antivirals, and supportive treatment were not excluded. Results A total 267 patients were included in the current analysis; 185 (69.3%) on hydroxychloroquine and 82 (30.7%) on non-hydroxychloroquine treatments. The average age was 46.0±13.3 years and 78.3% of the patients were males. Approximately 95.9% of the patients were symptomatic with mild (50.6%), moderate (32.6%), severe (8.2%), or ARDS symptoms (4.5%). Compared with no hydroxychloroquine, those on hydroxychloroquine had significantly longer length of stay (11.5±7.1 versus 7.8±4.3 days, p<0.001), more ICU admission (22.7% versus 9.8%, p=0.012), and more intubation (12.4% versus 3.7%, p=0.026). Improvement of symptoms (84.3% versus 81.7%, p=0.595) and hospitalization death (7.0% versus 1.2%, p=0.071) were not significantly different between groups. With exception of length of stay, the association of hydroxychloroquine with the above negative outcomes disappeared after adjustment for several factors including disease severity and concomitant use of azithromycin. Conclusions Hydroxychloroquine is not associated with better improvement of symptoms compared with other treatments. Moreover, it is associated with longer length of stay but not mortality or ICU admission in adjusted analysis.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-20-3650
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, NY 10027, United States
Background The coronavirus Covid-19 strain that emerged in December 2019, continues to produce a widespread and seemingly intractable negative impact on health and longevity in all parts of the world, especially, among older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. Aim The first aim of this review article was to examine, summarize, synthesize, and report on the research base concerning the possible use of vitamin-D supplementation for reducing both Covid-19 risk and severity, especially among older adults at high risk for Covid-19 infections. A second was to provide directives for researchers or professionals who work or are likely to work in this realm in the future. Methods All English language relevant publications detailing the possible efficacy of vitamin D as an intervention strategy for minimizing Covid-19 infection risk published in 2020 were systematically sought. Key words used were: Vitamin D, Covid-19, and Coronavirus. Databases used were PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. All relevant articles were carefully examined and those meeting the review criteria were carefully read, and described in narrative form. Results Collectively, these data reveal vitamin D is a powerful steroid like compound that is required by the body to help many life affirming physiological functions, including immune processes, but its deficiency may seriously impact the health status and well being of the older adult and others. Since vitamin D is not manufactured by the body directly, ensuring those who are deficient in vitamin D may prove a helpful overall preventive measure as well as a helpful treatment measure among older adults at high risk for severe Covid-19 disease outcomes. Conclusions Older individuals with chronic health conditions, as well as healthy older adults at risk for vitamin D deficiency are likely to benefit physically as well as mentally, from efforts to foster adequate vitamin D levels. Geriatric clinicians can expect this form of intervention to reduce infection severity in the presence of Covid-19 infection, regardless of health status, and subject to careful study, researchers can make a highly notable impact in this regard.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-1101.jhp-20-3637
Huang YanliCorresponding author
Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
How human understand and represent concepts is always a hot topic in cognitive psychology. According to the conceptual metaphor theory 12, understanding and representing abstract concepts rely on concrete concepts via metaphoric mappings. In this review, we discussed three core issues with the aim to have a comprehensive understanding of conceptual metaphors. First, I describe the underlying process of metaphoric mappings. Lakoff and Johnson (1999) 2 put forward that the source domain (concrete concepts) can be used to represent the target domain (abstract concepts). The metaphoric mappings from source domains to target domains are characterized as image schemas, which structure and provide sensory-motor grounding for abstract concepts. Then, I concerned on the directionality (the second issue) and automaticity (the third issue) of metaphoric mappings. According to conceptual metaphor theory, metaphoric mappings have the directionality from the concrete domain to the abstract domain, which is an automatic and obligatory process with neither effort nor awareness. However, directionality and automaticity were debated by recent research. In this article, by focusing on the three important issues I provided a comprehensive review which would help deepen our understanding about the nature of metaphoric mappings.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-20-3613
Lawson HenryCorresponding author
Empathy has been described as a multi-dimensional construct with cognitive and emotional components, both of which are concerned about responsivity to others. It has been touted as a skill essential for medical practice and thus useful to all healthcare professionals. It has been assessed in several countries and among several healthcare cadres however, there is a yawning gap in Ghana about its level in medical students. This study utilised a cross-sectional design to assess empathy using the Multi-Dimensional Emotional Empathy Scale in medical students of the University in Ghana. The scale has an alpha reliability of 0.88. One hundred and eleven students, aged 24 years ±1.5 years completed the study. Overall, there were more males than females. The mean empathy score for the cohort was 101SD 13 and this was adjudged to be low. There was no statistical difference between age, gender and clinical year and empathy in this cohort. The authors recommend that empathy, especially its cognitive aspects, should be taught in medical school curriculum of the University of Ghana Medical School, Accra.
Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-0207.jbr-20-3568
Mango LucioCorresponding author
Head for Higher Education in Healthcare, University of International Studies (UNINT) – Rome, Italy
The Coronavirus emergency represents an epochal challenge for all world health organizations. In these times of profound destabilization of healthcare organizations, become urgent some thoughts on how to deal with the organization and re-engineering process as well as on concepts, relatively new, such as "resilience" and "business continuity". The company management need having to predict, design and plan a profound process of change in their Clinical and Corporate Governance. With the implementation of phases 2 and 3 of management of the pandemic and the coexistence of doctors and citizens with the new Coronavirus, it has become a priority to develop territorial models of assistance to established or suspected Covid patients, starting with the creation of monitoring networks based on the model of the “sentinel” general practitioner. One of the main concerns of Healthcare, since the beginning of the Covid-19 emergency has been to get closer to the citizen-patient. It is therefore necessary to find stimuli to restart with new methods of care, new health and social-health services, moving the current care paradigm for Covid-19 from the hospital to the territory, optimizing the constituent elements of the districts, primary care and general practice in a multidisciplinary approach.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-19-3002
AGARWAL ANILCorresponding author
Professor, Department of Community Medicine, GR Medical College, Gwalior
A perspective on vaccine hesitancy discusses drivers, misinformation, and trust. It proposes communication and policy strategies to improve uptake while respecting community concerns.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-20-3546
Sah BikashCorresponding author
Associate Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal.
Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly evolved as a pandemic with a challenge to the entire world for its management. Various modalities of treatment have been tried till date and when all the modalities failed then the only option that has been shown to be successful in some cases is lung transplantation. Decision for Solid-organ transplantation is not only made based upon its therapeutic requirement but also need to be supported by the law of land. In this regard, current Nepalese law is not with the provision for lung transplantation. Thus, in order to make the concerned authorities aware of it and also as a step toward the preparedness for COVID-19 pandemic, this research has been conducted with an aim to see the perception of health care professionals of tertiary care centre of eastern Nepal regarding the legal aspects of lung transplantation. Conclusion Outcome of this research has supported the therapeutic aspect of transplantation over its legal issue in the emergency conditions like COVID-19 Pandemic.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-20-3545
Ezinna E EnwerejiCorresponding author
Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria
Public health professionals working in rural communities are aware of the health disparities which result from lack of physicians, limited services, and income during the pandemic. Also they are aware that some populations are more vulnerable than others. People in the rural areas are experiencing problems on their physical, social and economic life styles because the pandemic is exacerbating some inequities. Individuals especially women and children in the rural areas are facing barriers in accessing health care services due to lack of resources and availability of health care providers in the communities. With COVID-19, women are less likely to seek services, including sexual and reproductive health services. Such services may be postponed to limit exposure to COVID-19 infection. This is particularly disturbing because in addition to the women maintaining their own health, they are also responsible for taking care of the mental, emotional and physical health needs of their families as well as all domestic responsibilities. As such, women in rural settings face special challenges as a result of these significant roles they play. Therefore, the impacts of COVID-19 are exacerbated on women by virtue of their sex and the roles they play in the family. This is a qualitative study that reviewed the reports of the 36 health care professionals under the aegis of members of COVID-19 committee working in partnership with state government to control, prevent and cushion the effects of COVID-19 in the society. This study is therefore, a summary of the observations of the COVID-19 committee members made up of 10(27.8%) females and 26(72.2%) males. The study focused on exploring how individual lifestyles in the rural areas have been affected in the face of COVID- 19 pandemic by identifying the vulnerabilities in social, political and economic systems which can amplify the impacts of the pandemic. Findings showed that preventive measures like lockdown and social distancing rules, wearing of face mask, hand washing with soap, and environmental cleanliness were not observed. The study noted that health seeking behaviours, sexual and marital life including income, education, employment and social interactions were all negatively affected. Most hospitals were battered and health care professionals boycotted the hospitals for fear of being infected. It was found that lack of health workers in the hospitals caused a good number of individuals to engage in self-medications. Also most pregnant women delivered their babies at home and few with traditional birth attendants. Some of the women who had deliveries at home experienced complications during and after delivery. Unfortunately, the report showed that governments’ financial supports to these women and their family members were insignificant as the government was more concerned with mitigating the spread of COVID-19 than assisting women to have safe deliveries. Therefore, the vulnerable groups especially women, children, and the elderly who experienced threats to their safety and wellbeing as a result of the services that were disrupted during the pandemic, should be assisted so as not to lose their lives to preventable diseases.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-20-3497
Patel JainishCorresponding author
Indira Gandhi National Open University, Regional Center, Surat, Gujarat, India
This paper explores the two major preventive concepts of the unpredictable life-threatening viral infection caused by Coronavirus that is ravaging the entire world from the beginning of the year 2020, as it pertains to mental health. Through scientific consultations, the expectation is that effective vaccine for the Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) may not come into the market this year. Two (among others) preventive measures, namely Social Distancing and Quarantine are suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO). Using the principle of explorative research, this study established the flipside of quarantine and social distancing from the metal health perspective. It was discovered that there is a relationship between a long period of self-isolation and a high probability of concerned persons having anxiety, stress, and depression, which gradually leads to mental and emotional health issues. Consequently, mental health affects the overall health and affects how we handle different situations during the Covid-19 pandemic. By considering this important matter, this article recommended different ways to improve mental health during the pandemic in the quest to keep oneself away from psychological issues arising due to the Covid-19 situation.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3471
Yewande BAMIGBOYE AdeolaCorresponding author
Department of Science Laboratory Technology, The Polytechnic, Ibadan. Oyo State, Nigeria.
Spices have been frequently added to foods since ancient times, not only to enhance the taste but also as preservatives and medicinal agents. Their usage may be of concern due to possible contamination during processing and handling. The aim of this study was to investigate the physicochemical properties and heavy metals concentrations in some indigenous spices sold at two main markets namely Bodija and Apata markets in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. A total of eight commonly consumed spices were purposely analyzed for their proximate and mineral composition, physicochemical properties and anti-nutrients contents. Proximate analyses showed that the spices to contained (fresh matter ‘As consumed’) moisture content ranging from 11.74g in thyme to 59.36g/100g in scent leaves. Crude protein, fat, fibre, ash and carbohydrate contents ranged between 3.72 – 15.07g, 1.31 – 8.28g, 1.96 – 11.38g, 1.11 – 7.81g, and 17.80 – 50.77g/100g sample, respectively. All the spices contained high levels of potassium (176.3 – 739.6 mg), sodium (60.6 – 317 mg), calcium (78.5 – 423.9 mg), magnesium (82 – 322.1 mg) and iron (5.78 – 20.10 mg), but low levels of heavy metals – copper (0.17 – 0.68 mg), and manganese (0.32 – 1.05 mg)/100g respectively. Flavonoid was the most abundant phytochemical, while terpene was the least phytochemical in all the samples. The samples had very low concentrations of anti-nutrients, and could pose no threat to human health, as their values were within the regulatory standard. The antioxidants and phytochemicals in the spices can help in building up immunity and prevention of non-communicable diseases, hence, their consumption should be encouraged.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5257.ijgp-20-3335
Luis Turabian JoseCorresponding author
Specialist in Family and Community Medicine, Health Center Santa Maria de Benquerencia, Regional Health Service of Castilla la Mancha (SESCAM), Toledo, Spain
The consultation is the activity of meeting and communication between an individual and the doctor for the knowledge and solution of a health problem. In today's busy world of general medicine, constant demands for the general practitioner (GP) arise: she or he should not only make a diagnosis not only should make a differential diagnosis during consultation, but must also establish a good relationship, explore patient ideas, concerns and expectations and negotiate a management plan, taking into account limited resources, the quality framework and results, having Information technology skills, plus, the need to promote health during any consultation. Normally the GP has only 10 minutes to achieve all that, as well as to manage your own emotions, agendas and uncertainty. In this way, novice doctors may find it difficult to move in this situation of complexity, and they can also observe a gap in the literature that really guides them in practice. Rigorous preparation is the key to success for many endeavours. Some tips to perform an efficient and safe consultation work in general medicine are suggested: 1) Focus on the next patient; 2) Preparing the consultation before entering the patient, memorizing the patient's previous history; 3) Establishing a connection with the patient; 4) Remembering the elements that must be in each consultation (the current reason, update other previous processes, chronic diseases and continued attention, "case finding", health promotion); 5) Striking a balance between empathy and assertiveness; 6) Putting in writing and contextualized the clinical record; and 7) Making reflection-safety questions, learning questions, and preparation questions for the next visit. Rigorous preparation is the key to success for the general practitioner in every consultation. Think about these topics of the consultation before doing it, and after it, prepare the next consultation of that patient. All these things are force multipliers.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-20-3311
G. Elkabily AhmedCorresponding author
Ministry of health, Egypt
Currently, the emergence of a novel human corona virus, SARS-CoV-2, has become a global health concern causing severe respiratory tract infections in humans. Human-to-human transmissions have been described with incubation times between 2-14 days, facilitating its spread via droplets, contaminated hands or surfaces, resulting in high spread and death rates according to date, time and place of infection. We therefore reviewed the literature on all available information about the treatment of the cases, especially critical cases to decrease the mortality rate, the spread and incubation time of the virus by using the adaptive artificial passive immunity (anti-bodies from fully recovered patients with COVID-19).
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3363
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
Rapid analyses methods for the assessment of soil microbiota are lacking. In a commercial farm tomato plants were subjected to different fertilization strategies: 1. mineral Control (C); 2. Organic amendment (O); 3. Organic amendment + Micosat F © biofertilizer (OM). A first rapid method (Litterbag-NIRS) concerned hay litterbags coupled with a smart SCiOTM device. A second method (Foliar-NIRS) used the same device on the leaves. The plants showed positive responses to the amendment and biofertilization in the yield: C 60.5.1 t ha-1vs. 70.8 in O (+17%) and 74.2 in OM (+23% from C and + 5% (P 0.08) from O). The use of Litterbag-NIRS fingerprinting, completed with litterbags phenotyping and elaborated with a multivariate support vector machine classifier provided a similar knowledge to that obtained from microbial and chemical analyses of the soil. The reason for this response is that the analyses were embedded in the Litterbag-NIRS at medium-high precision. A polydromic function was hypothesized in order to disentangle the activities of different soil microbial populations from each other. The organic amendment delayed the functionality of the rapid r-strategist microbial populations, but at the same time activated slow k-strategists to intake the walls of the hay inside the litterbags. In this sense, the Litterbag-NIRS test can provide an effective “swamp” of the microbial fertility of the soil. Briefly, the Litterbag-NIRS coupled with Foliar-NIRS accounted for 95% of the average yield results, and both are therefore recommended for a rational assessment of microbial soil fertility.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3367
Yadav RavinderCorresponding author
Medical Social Welfare Officer Department of Medical Record Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector-32, Chandigarh, India
We explore the global evidence of major health crisis potential impacts and the factors influencing the mental health outcomes among the population during the outbreak of COVID-19. Preparation measures for a COVID-19 focus on rapid quarantine of social isolation and economic concerns have risen metal health considerations that become an integrated part of the pandemic outbreak. This outbreak of novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is swayed an overall 213 countries, areas or territories, with over 2,921,439 confirmed cases and 203,289 confirmed deaths reported till 26 April 2020. This created a lot of strain and fear; fear of falling ill and dying of being infected leading to heightened levels of insurmountable psychological pressure. This scrutiny attempt to assess the widespread outbreaks of COVID-19 on mental health professionals, healthcare workers and general population in association with adverse mental health sequelae like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), depressive symptoms, insomnia, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, OCD, suicidal behavior, delirium, psychosis, harmful alcohol consumption, and drug use. There is a need for more evocative exploration to intensify awareness to address the potential psychological and behavioral risks that will remain elevated as long as the COVID-19 pandemic continues in the community. In conclusion, incessant surveillance of the subsyndromal mental health problems for outbreaks should be part of galvanized global action during the quarantine.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3345
Ozcelik FatihCorresponding author
University of Health Sciences, Sultan 2. Abdulhamid Han Training and Research Hospital, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
While the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the future of people worldwide, it has made it necessary to take measures with high economic costs, including quarantine. We consider it is more logical for some scientists to investigate time-saving treatment options until vaccination studies, which are started to be studied rapidly, are accomplished or specific antiviral agents are found. In this context, treatment combinations of one or more of the immune modulators known as cytokines, which can stimulate or accelerate the immune system, should be tried. In our opinion, although such options are not as effective as specific treatments such as vaccines, such options will offer highly effective alternatives in times of emergency. For this reason, we found it appropriate to make a reminder by preparing a broad review about interferon gamma, which is an antivirus and is an immunomodulator and which plays a critical role in humoral and cellular immunity.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-20-3322
Omozemoje Ayobami AigberuaCorresponding author
Department partment of Environment, Research and Development, Anal Concept Limited, Elelenwo, Rivers State, Nigeria
In spite of the popularity of open-air waste dumping in Nigeria, it remains a relatively less effective waste management option across the globe because of its associated environmental impacts which includes the release of green house gases (GHGs), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and metal micro-pollutants amongst others. This study aims to assess the potential environmental risks associated to metals released and vertically delineated across the soil profile within surroundings of dumpsite. Heavy metals in soil samples were acid-digested using the aqua-regia mixture of hydrochloric and nitric acid, followed by instrumentation analysis using the GBC 908 PBMT model atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Contaminated sites showed metal concentrations ranging from 1.493 to 109.460 mg/kg, 0.133 to 4.237 mg/kg, and 5.200 to 25.367 mg/kg for lead, cadmium and chromium respectively, with location 1 land area showing the most contamination. Only soil chromium was observed within regulatory stipulations in all cases. There was significant variation (p < 0.05) between the different sample locations, thereby indicating variations in composition of dumped wastes. Lead and cadmium showed the strongest positive correlation (r = 0.855, p < 0.01) and the application of some heavy metal pollution indicators revealed relatively higher metal loads and degree of contamination, as well as depicting potential ecological risk for soils of location 1. The significant heavy metal contamination of soils in the Tombia-Amassoma waste dumpsite requires that the local environmental sanitation and regulatory authorities take necessary remedial action to forestall the escalation of public health concerns that may emanate from this open-air dump.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-20-3282
A.J ThatheyusCorresponding author
PG & Research Department of Zoology, The American College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Pesticides applied in agricultural fields for crop protection result in the contamination of the environment. They also affect the flora and fauna as well as the quality of air, water and soil. Hence their remediation is of concern. Among different strategies available, microbial remediation is cost effective and ecofriendly. The present work is designed to test the efficiency of Pseudomonas stutzeri, a bacterial strain obtained from MTCC, IMTECH, Chandigarh, India. After treating with 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm of methyl parathion, parameters like, orthophosphate released, pH and turbidity changes were monitored upto thirty hours. Degradation of 200 ppm concentration was confirmed by UV-Visible spectrophotometry and HPLC analysis. This strain effectively degraded methyl parathion and it can be used in the remediation of contaminated agricultural fields.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-3208.ijli-20-3268
Radwan EHCorresponding author
Damanhour University, Faculty of Science, Zoology department, Egypt
Pesticides are the major source of concern as water pollutants. Chlorpyrifos (CPY) (O,O-diethyl-O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl) phosphorothioate; CAS No. 2921-88-2). CPY is a widely used organophosphate insecticide. The aim of current study was to determine the effects of CPY on the second instar larvae of Culex mosquito as a bio-indicator of water pollution. Levels of CPY in stream water was evaluated. Toxicity of CPY was estimated on mosquito. Along with the evaluation of effects of water polluted with CPY on mosquito to predict the water pollution levels. Results showed that LC95 of CPY was 6331.30 mg/kg after 24hr and increased to 230506.4 ppm after 48hr of exposure. It was noted that the activity of CPY is concentration and time dependent. The 0.09 ppm concentration of CPY (the amount that was found in the stream water) had no effect on the second instar Culex larvae similar to the control (tap water). There is no effect after 72,96h of exposure of the population to the detected insecticide. It could be concluded that mosquito is not a bioindicator of CPY pollution at the detected level in stream water.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3261
Dzinamarira TafadzwaCorresponding author
Department of Public Health, Mount Kenya University Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
Efforts to control the Human Immunodeficiency Virus epidemic in Rwanda have seen remarkable success over the years. Effective antiretroviral therapy has played great role in improving longevity among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). While this is the case, there are various nutritional challenges, which are often faced, among PLWH. Guided by the Rwanda country guidelines for nutritional management for PLWH and WHO recommendations, this study aimed to explore the perspectives of health care providers (HCPs) working with PLWH on nutritional challenges faced by their clients in Kigali, Rwanda. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews to collect data. A non-probability purposive sampling was employed to recruit HCPs. Data analysis was based on the naturalistic paradigm. We followed the hybrid approach in conducting thematic analysis. Three themes were identified. First, HCPs had good knowledge on nutritional requirements for PLWH. They demonstrated good communication skills and adequate counseling skills that were necessary for addressing concerns on nutrition from their clients. Secondly, it emerged that HCPs perceived a lack of resources to be the major challenge faced in nutritional management of their clients. From theme three, it emerged that, from HCPs experiences, food insecurity and lack of feeding supplements were the main causes of malnutrition among PLWH in Kigali, Rwanda. From the HCPs perspective, there is a need to improve healthcare institutions capacity to manage nutritional challenges faced by PLWH. To achieve this, policy makers need to channel adequate resources for this cause.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3181
Barnhill KellyCorresponding author
The Johnson Center for Child Health & Development
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by impaired communication and social interaction. Children with ASD are frequently diagnosed with gastrointestinal (GI) issues, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation, although the association between ASD and GI conditions is unclear. Underlying nutritional deficiencies are more common in children with ASD, and increase the risk of them developing medical conditions secondary to the behavioral diagnosis. This objective of this study was to examine the use of an elemental diet (ED) in the treatment of gastrointestinal disease in 5 children with ASD ages 2-21 years of age. In the study participants, the ED was well-tolerated with improvements in anthropometric measures, nutritional markers, and/or GI functioning reported after 12 weeks of intervention. Further research to advance the development of specific evidence-based guidelines in the management and treatment of gastrointestinal concerns in the ASD population is warranted.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4837.ijip-20-3176
Bajaj AnubhaCorresponding author
MD. (Pathology) Panjab University, Department of Histopathology, A.B. Diagnostics, A-1, Ring Road, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, 110027, India.
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is a syndrome emerging from characteristic mutations of MEN1 gene with concurrently enunciated multiple endocrine and tumours and associated non-endocrine neoplasm. Previously designated as Werner’s syndrome, MEN1 syndrome denominates genomic mutation within chromosome 11q13 or a tumour suppressor gene with a distinctive protein product nomenclated as “menin”. MEN1 syndrome demonstrates an autosomal dominant pattern of disease inheritance where genomic mutations delineate a comprehensive (100%) disease penetrance. MEN1 gene was initially identified in 1997 upon chromosome 11q13. Although twelve genetic mutations were primarily identified, currently beyond eighteen hundred genomic mutations are scripted12. MEN1 syndrome is comprised of diverse combination of twenty or more endocrine and non-endocrine tumours exemplifying a classic triad of pituitary, parathyroid and pancreatic neoplasm. Diverse non endocrine tumours enunciated with MEN1 syndrome are denominated with meningioma, ependymoma or angiofibroma12. Endocrine tumours are discerned on account of excessive hormonal secretion engendered from various neoplasm or on account of neoplastic evolution. Approximately 10% instances can occur due to a de-novo genomic variant. Offspring of an individual with MEN1 syndrome quantifies a 50% possibility of inheriting the genomic variant. Cogent prenatal diagnosis can be determined in instances where specific genomic variant of a particular family is known. Physical, psychological and social restrictions are prevalent with MEN1 syndrome. Heterozygotes with MEN1 genetic variant are denominated as carriers and manifest a two- fold possible mortality12.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3185
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
Four strains of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) biofertilizer fungi, combined with two potato cultivars, were in-field tested in a four-replicate arrangement in a factorial experiment. As far as general combinability is concerned, cv. Agria was more responsive to different inocula (yield +5.56%, P 0.02) and to two strains in particular (+8%). On the other hand, the results with Innovator, a cultivar that yields 33% less than Agria, showed a significant reduction in the number of tubers for three AM strains, thus proving a clear genetic Biofertilizer * Cultivar interaction. The study of hay litter-bags has shown a high NIR spectral fingerprint for the Cultivar factor (81%), while the Inoculation factor showed a higher spectral fingerprint in Agria (76%) than in Innovator (65%). The Substrate Induced Respiration predicted from the NIR-SCiO spectra of the litter-bags was significantly increased after inoculation (+6.3%, P 0.04), but appeared lower for Agria (-5.4%) vs. Innovator (P 0.05), with a non-significant interaction. The obtained results show that the adaptation of the AM strains to the genetics of potato cultivars is a first step toward reducing chemical inputs, with consequent benefits for the environment, but without an excessive reduction in yield. The litter-bag technique can therefore be recommended for a simplified monitoring of the complicated plant-mycorrhizosphere relationship.
Jan 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-19-3154
DOGAN MetinCorresponding author
Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram Medical Faculty, Department of Microbiology, KONYA, TURKEY
Background The morbidity and mortality associated with the multi drug resistant Gram negative bacterial infections pose a significant and growing challenge to clinical practitioners. Klebsiella pneumoniae, which is a substantial nosocomial pathogen and confer high levels of resistance to broad-spectrum antibiotics including carbapenems. The aim of this study is to determine the resistance profiles of Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from various clinical specimens. Material and Method In this study, the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of 2452 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from various clinical specimens between July 2015 and November 2019 were considered retrospectively. Blood culture vials were incubated in Bac T / Alert 3D automated system, other samples were cultured on blood and Eosin Methylene-blue (EMB) medium. The identification and antibiotic susceptibility tests of the isolated bacteria were performed by VITEC 2 Compact ID-AST cards (BioMérieux, Marcy l’Etoile, Fransa) and the results were evaluated according to the standards of the Europian Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility testing (EUCAST). The first sample of each patient was included in the study. The strains with inappropriate results were re-studied with gradient agar diffusion test (BioMérieux, Marcy l’Etoile, Fransa). Results The study included a total of 2452 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains and the distribution of samples was as follows: 894 (36, 5 %) blood, 790 (32, 2%) bronchial lavage, 211 (8,6 %) wound, 148 (6 %) drainage, 148 (6 %) peritoneal fluid, 95 (3, 9 %) tracheal aspirates, 64 (2,6%) catheter, 62 (2,5 %) urine, 40 (1,6%) other samples (pleural fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, throat ). In this study, antibiotic susceptibility test results indicated that the resistance to tigecycline was lowest (0, 3%). High colistin resistance ratio (33, 5 %) in carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae was considered to be of concern. Conclusion In this study, high rates of resistance to carbapenems were noteworthy. Determination of hospital antimicrobial resistance rates will be useful in developing antibiotic use policies of each hospital, in the treatment of causative agents, in selecting antibiotics according to antimicrobial susceptibility.
Jan 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4837.ijip-19-3145
Bajaj AnubhaCorresponding author
MD. (Pathology) Panjab University, Department of Histopathology, A.B. Diagnostics, A-1, Ring Road, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, 110027, India.
Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis was initially scripted in 1972 by Kessler and Wolloch and is cogitated as an infrequent, benign, chronic inflammatory disorder. It commonly implicates females of reproductive age group, especially women who have breast fed in the preceding five to six years. Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is commonly discerned in Asia and Mediterranean region although true incidence is undetermined. Diverse ethnicities delineate a diverse disease prevalence. Elimination of adjunctive causes of granulomatous inflammation makes idiopathic granulomatous mastitis a diagnosis of exclusion. As per the natural history, idiopathic granulomatous mastitis is designated as a self limiting disorder 1.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-19-2991
H Radwan ECorresponding author
Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Egypt
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of organic pollution of EL-Mahmodia canal on the fish (Oreochromis niloticus)muscles tissues collected from two sites at EL-Mahmodia canal in summer and winter 2017. EL-Mahmodia canal is exposed to excessive of effluents which impact fish. The present results showed high concentrations of organic pollutants, particularly in winter. Organic pollutants were analyzed using the gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A variety of environmental screening studies concerning varieties of water pollutants in Egypt, the target of the present study was to scan the organic pollutants of El-Mahmodia stream at El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt within the muscles of Tilapia fish. Within the present study, it was found that; the analysis of fish muscles in summer season showed a high level of organic pollutants. The organic pollutants that are reported in the muscle of fish in the polluted site were reported as; Dimethomorph-(E), Hexestrol, Diisobutyl phthalate, Diamyl phthalate, Di-n-propyl phthalate, Chlorpyrifos, Phorate sulfoxide, Exaltolide (15-Pentadecanolide), Chlorfenapyr, Pyridate, Ethofumesate, Bis (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, Dicyclohexyl phthalate, Di-n-octyl phthalate, Tricresylphosphate, meta-, XMC (3, 4-Dimethylphenyl N-methyl, XMC (3,5-Dimethylphenyl N-methyl, Hexestrol, Thymol, Kinoprene, Diisobutyl phthalate, Diisobutyl phthalate, Di-n-hexyl phthalate, Di-n-hexyl phthalate, Carbofuran-3-keto, Tefluthrin, cis-, Carbofuran-7-phenol, Carbofuran, Dicyclohexyl phthalate, Di-n-propyl phthalate, Di-n-propyl phthalate, Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, Ethofumesate, Hexestrol, Kinoprene, Di-n-hexyl phthalate, Exaltolide (15-Pentadecanolide), Spiroxamine metabolite (4-tert-b), Chlorfenapyr, Tricresylphosphate, para, Tricresylphosphate, meta-, Tricresylphosphate, ortho-, XMC (3, 5-Dimethylphenyl N-methyl, XMC (3,4-Dimethylphenyl N-methyl, Fluroxypyr-1-methylheptyl ester, Cashmeran, Propargite metabolite (Cyclohexa), and Quinoclamine. The present results showed that Diisobutyl phthalate, Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, Pyridate and Ethofumesate were detected in winter season in the polluted site, whereas, Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, and Pyridate were the only organic pollutants that were found in winter in the reference site. The accumulation patterns of organic pollutants percentage in the polluted site in summer in the muscles of O. niloticus were in the following order: Chlorpyrifos> Diamyl phthalate> Diisobutylphthalate> Di-n-butylphthalate> Diamyl phthalate> Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, whereas, in the reference site in summer, it was Chlorpyrifos> Chlorfenapyr> Di-n-butylphthalate> Diisobutylphthalate> Hexestrol> Di-nhexyl phthalate. The accumulation patterns of organic pollutants in the polluted site in winter in the muscles of O. niloticus, were in the following order: Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate> Pyridate> Ethofumesate, whereas in the reference site it was; Bis (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate> Pyridate.
Oct 2019
Radwan EHCorresponding author
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Egypt.
Pesticides are the major source of concern as water pollutants. Persistent organochlorines can accumulate in food chains. Chlorpyrifos (O,O -diethyl O -(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl) phosphorothioate; CAS No. 2921-88-2; CPY). CPY is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide that is available in a granular formulation for treatment in soil. Pesticides are used to control a wide range of pests including Mosquitoes. Mosquito borne diseases infect millions of people every year globally. The aim of current study was to screen the fresh water pollutants, water quality parameter in irrigation water from El Mahmodia stream, El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt and to determine the adverse effects of Chlorpyrifos on the larvae of Culex mosquito larvae as bio-indicator. The LC95 of Chloropyrifos insecticide was 6331.30 at 24h and increased to 230506.4 after 48h of exposure to the Chloropyrifos insecticide. It is noted that the effect of the exposure time of Chloropyrifos insecticide on the LC50, LC25 and LC95 values had a synergistic interaction with time, as it increased after 48h of exposure when compared to 24 h of exposure. The 0.09 ppm concentration of Chloropyrifos had no effect on the second instar Culex larvae, as there is no mortality over time; the same result is also with the control 0 ppm. There is no effect after 72, 96h of exposure of the population to the detected insecticide. This study concerns with studying the pollutants along El Mahmodia stream in El Beheira governorate in Abo Homs city with its abundance during the four seasons (2016-2017), as well as studding the physicochemical parameters in it. Another concern of this study is estimating the effect of one of this pesticides (Chloropyrifos) insecticide on the second instar Culex mosquito larvae, determining the lethal concentration of this insecticide on the Culex larvae. Along the study area, pesticides are used within a high ratio on the agriculture scale with its four main categories organophosphates, organochlorine, pyrthoid and carbamates. Organophosphates and organochlorine are used at a wide range. Pollutants measuring achieved by using GC-MS as water samples collected seasonally and analyzed, there is a big number of Pollutants which was found as well as other compounds which are banned, such as DDT. The physicochemical parameters Turbidity, COD, BOD in El Mahmodia stream exceeded the desirable limits of (Egyptian Law 48/1982), (WHO, 1993) and (FAO, 1985) although the other parameters as EC, PH, DO,TDS TSS are to be within the permeable limits. HCO3, NH4. Cu also was found to exceed the desirable limits while, Pb, Mn, Fe and Cd within the permeable limits. Chloropyrfos as an organophosphate pesticide used in the present study which was found with 0.09 mg/l in the stream water, used to estimate its effect on the Culex mortality, determining LC25, LC50 and LC95. The experiment continued for 96 h but after 48 h there is no effect of Chloropyrfos on Culex larvae. The experiment began with 20 second instar Culex larvae immersed in 100 ppm, 10 ppm, 1 ppm, 0.1 ppm and finally 0.09 ppm of Chloropyrfos insecticide with five repeats to each concentration, it is noted that the lethal concentration increase after 48h of experiment, the larval mortality decrease with time.
Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-19-3013
Musa Fadlelmula Awadelseid KhalidCorresponding author
Jazan University -Faculty of Medicine, Anatomy &Embryology department, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia –Jazan
The medial calcaneal nerve (MCN) is the first branch of the posterior tibial nerve (PTN) in the porta pedis, enervates the skin of the heel and medial side of the foot. Heel pain is a common condition encountered by physicians, and this may have a significant clinical association with the MCN’s branching pattern. This study was to identify branching pattern variations in the medial calcaneal neurovascular bundle. This study was carried out using 60lower limbs of formalin-embalmed cadavers, using the tarsal tunnel dissection method for 30right and 30 left lower limbs. The medial calcaneal neurovascular bundle course was identified by exposing the PTN and its branches from the distal end of the leg toward the plantar surface beyond its bifurcation and resecting the skin and flexor retinaculum. Many MCN branching pattern variations (specifically concerning origins, numbers, and levels of branching) were observed. In the right foot a single branch was present in 21 specimens (70%), while two branches were observed in nine specimens (30%). In the left foot, a single branch was present in 22 specimens (73.3%) and two branches were present in 8 specimens (26.7%). In this study, two branches originate from lateral planter artery is the most common observation. This study concludes that a single MCN originating from the TN is the most common variant. Two medial calcaneal arteries (MCAs) originating from the LPA is also common.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-19-2965
Yao Gbagbo FredCorresponding author
University of Education, Winneba, Faculty of Science Education, Department of Health Administration and Education, P.O Box 25, Winneba, Central Region, Ghana, West African
Self-medication in pregnancy is a health concern in Ghana. We assessed the practice among 136 pregnant women in Effutu and Agona West Municipalities using facility-based, cross-sectional design and mixed method approach of data collection. Data analysis used SPSS and manual content analysis. Results show that pregnant women of all backgrounds self-medicate, with prevalence of 69%, motivated by cheaper treatment cost (17%), minor ailments (29%) and positive outcomes (33%). Commonly used medications include antibiotics (23%), pain killers (20%) and herbal preparations (19%). Preventing self-medication in pregnancy therefore requires awareness creation and evidence based Social Behavioral Change Communication on associated dangers.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-6403.jtrr-19-2946
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), India
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome or failure is one of the major concerns against healthcare services in order to maintain the normal function. The present study aimed to explore the impact of the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation on the function of vital organs such as bones, heart, liver, lungs, and brain using standard activity parameters in specific cell-based assays. The test formulation and cells medium was divided into two parts, one untreated (UT) and other part received the Biofield Energy Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Ariadne Esmene Afaganis, Canada and was labeled as the Biofield Treated (BT) test formulation/media. The test formulation was tested for cell viability, and the data suggested that the test formulation was found safe and non-toxic against all the cell lines. Cytoprotective activity among the experimental groups showed a significant improved activity by 94.4% at 1 µg/mL in untreated medium (UT-Med) + Biofield Treated Test Item (BT-TI) group in human cardiac fibroblasts cells (HCF) cells, while 84.4% at 10 µg/mL in BT-Med + BT-TI groups in human hepatoma cells (HepG2), and 124% increased cytoprotective action at 1 µg/mL in UT-Med + BT-TI group in adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549) cells as compared with the untreated test group. ALP activity in MG-63 cells was significantly increased by 85.9% at 10 µg/mL in the UT-Med + BT-TI group, while in Ishikawa cells showed maximum increased ALP activity by 59.2% at 0.1 µg/mL in BT-Med + BT-TI groups as compared to the untreated group. The percent protection of HCF (heart) cells (decreased of LDH activity) was significantly increased by 53% and 40.5% at 1 and 10 µg/mL concentrations respectively, in UT-Med + BT-TI group, while BT-Med + UT-TI group showed increased protection by 68.5%, 70.7%, and 16.8% at 0.1, 1, and 10 µg/mL respectively, and 86.5%, 62.5%, and 34.2% improved cellular protection at 0.1, 1, and 10 µg/mL respectively, in BT-Med + BT-TI group as compared to the untreated test group. The percent protection of HepG2 (liver) cells (decreased of ALT activity) was reported by 33.5%, 63.2%, and 99.2% at 10 µg/mL in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively compared to the untreated group. Cellular protection of A549 (lungs) cells (increased of SOD activity) in terms of percentage was increased by increased by 39.8% (at 10 µg/mL), 44% (at 25.5 µg/mL), and 59.7% (at 25.5 µg/mL) in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively compared to untreated group. Serotonin level was significantly increased by 59.2% (at 0.1 µg/mL), 190.3% (at 0.1 µg/mL), and 201% (at 1 µg/mL) in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively compared to untreated in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). However, the relative quantification (RQ) of vitamin D receptor (VDR) was significantly increased by 159.1% (at 50 µg/mL), 212.7% (at 1 µg/mL), and 278.3% (at 10 µg/mL) in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively as compared to the untreated in MG-63 cells. Thus, the present data concluded that the overall multiple organ health using various standard biomarkers in specific cell lines were significantly improved with respect to health of bones, heart, liver, lungs, and brain after treatment with the Biofield Energy treated test formulation (The Trivedi Effect®). Thus, it can be used as a complementary and alternative therapy approach against many multiple organ disorders such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, cirrhosis, liver cancer, hemochromatosis, asthma, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, osteoporosis, etc.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2688-5328.ijp-19-2804
Francesco Fraioli MarioCorresponding author
University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Neurosciences, Neurosurgery
Many therapies are available for trigeminal neuralgia (TN), from medical therapy to invasive, mininvasive and non-invasive methods. There is no a unique indication concerning the choice of treatment; we report our indications for gasserian ganglion compression with balloon by percutaneous approach. Out of 421 patients affected by TN treated with various methods from 2004 through to 2014, we present 46 patients treated by gasserian ganglion compression with balloon catheter. Patients selected for this procedure were only those refractory to medical therapy and refractory to the other available therapies (radiofrequency, microvascular decompression, radiosurgery, glycerolization, peripheral alcoholizations): balloon compression was performed as third line therapy. After the procedure, twenty-eight patients were classified as BNI pain intensity score grade 1, seven other as grade 2, three other as grade 3, six were classified as BNI grade 4, and in one patient no improvement of pain occurred (BNI grade 5). After an average period of follow up of 8,6 years, four cases of pain recurrence occurred. Because balloon compression is an ablative and non-selective procedure and all three trigeminal divisions are damaged to achieve stable pain remission, the procedure was performed only in patients affected by recurrent TN refractory to the other available methods.
Jun 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-2785
A. Mari NicolásCorresponding author
Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria – Agencia de Extensión Rural Cruz del Eje
In Córdoba, Argentina, the peri-urban horticulture is in conflict with industrial agriculture and urban development. This problem is partly due to urban expansion to rural areas occurred in the last years and to monoculture farming, which has replaced traditional fruit and vegetable cropping in the region. This transformation process has raised concern about the current and future availability of productive sectors that can sustain food supply within the city boundaries and its immediate surroundings as well as about the loss of ecosystem services associated with peri-urban natural environments. Although these dynamic processes are well known, they have not been described or quantified in Córdoba. Baseline information about land use and its dynamics in productive areas or about number of producers is insufficient and/or out of date. At O-AUPA (Spanish acronym for Observatory of Urban and Peri-urban Agriculture and Agroecology) different mapping strategies are developed to contribute to the understanding of the land dynamics in the Green Belt of Córdoba (GBC) and the rural environments surrounding the city. In this work, we present a method based on the use of remote sensing and geographical information systems to characterize urban, peri-urban and rural areas of Córdoba city with the aim of evaluating the temporal dynamics of urban growth and the current state of land use and cover. We mapped and quantified the urban growth between 1974 and 2014, and evaluated land use in peri-urban and rural areas in 2015. We used satellite information from Landsat TM 5 to map the urban growth via a principal component analysis (PCA) and SPOT 5 imagery to characterize the current land use and land cover with the support vector machine classification algorithm. The results show an urban area growth of 46.5% over almost 40 years within the boundaries of the Capital department. Farm plot size increased, showing a concentration of land ownership, implying a reduced number of producers. Evidence indicates the importance of defining land planning guidelines that limit the advance of the urban frontier to valuable agricultural systems, ensure diversification of productive activities and protect and develop the fresh food production systems at the local level.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-19-2791
A. M. LawalCorresponding author
Plants used for medicinal practices which were discovered since prehistoric stone ages are termed Medicinal plants, which are also referred to as medicinal herbs, since plants produces bioactive chemical compounds (phytochemicals), this research however, is concerned with the extraction using Soxhlet extraction technique, phytochemical screening using various test methods, which reveals the presence of anthraquinones (free anthraquinones and combined anthraquinones), carbohydrates, cardiac glycosides, glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, steroids/ terpenes, phenolic compounds and tannins, and absence of alkaloids for extracts of senna occidentalis and also, thin layer chromatography profiling which gives probable foundation for further structural elucidation amongst others. This research shows the presence of potent secondary metabolites present in the leaves of senna occidentalis (leaves).
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2703
J. Johnson JeremyCorresponding author
University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice
The Mediterranean diet has long been known to provide a variety of health benefits including cardiovascular protection, cancer prevention, and lowering gastrointestinal inflammation. Oregano (Origanium vulgare) is an herb prominent in the Mediterranean diet, and has been shown to possess several bioactive properties including anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties of oregano also make it a strong candidate as a natural food preservative. Because of the recent public concern with synthetic food preservatives, natural alternatives are increasingly being evaluated for effective food preservation. Oregano extract (OE) and essential oil (OEO) are two such agents that have shown promise as natural food preservatives. Additionally, oregano is being evaluated for its positive effect on gastrointestinal health, suggesting an additional benefit of food preservation with oregano. This review will describe in vitro studies related to the anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties of oregano along with food preservation studies with oregano in various model food matrices. The major phytochemical content reported for OE and OEO will also be outlined to highlight the importance of characterizing the extract that is used, since the extraction process can have a significant effect on the phytochemicals therein. Finally, in vivo studies that investigate the gastrointestinal health benefits of oregano, specifically against inflammation, will be addressed to describe the role of oregano on gastrointestinal health.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-19-2616
Srinath Kamineni,Corresponding author
Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Elbow Shoulder Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536
Introduction Ultrasound technology has previously been applied for cataract removal and tennis elbow treatment. Recent data supports the use of ultrasonic debridement in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. No data is available concerning the potential antibacterial properties of a clinical grade, lower energy ultrasound probe. We investigated the effect of a ultrasonic probe with respect to P gingivalis bacterial viability. Methods A Tenex Tx1 probe with standard settings for clinical use was used for this study. A Gram negative (Porphyromonasgingivalis) bacteria, known for its pathological activity, was investigated. The bacteria was cultured in an anaerobic broth, re-suspended to achieve a consistent bacterial count, and 5ml of this re-suspension was placed in a test tube for testing. Each tube was sonicated with the Tx1 probe for varying lengths of time (10, 30, 60, 120 seconds). The sonicated was diluted and plated on blood-agar plates, followed by incubation for 48 hours at 37°C in an anaerobic growth chamber. The number of colony forming units were counted, on each plate and the anti-bacterial effect was calculated. A one way analysis of variance was performed for statistical analysis. Results A significant time-dependent antibacterial effect was demonstrated with sonication. When comparing the kill rate between the control and 120 seconds of sonication P Gingivalis had a 64% kill rate. This was the only statistically significant time comparison achieved, although the trend for all the time intervals was a reduction in the colony forming unit counts. Conclusion This study demonstrates that a clinically available ultrasonic probe (Tenex Tx1) has an antibacterial effect against the gram negative anaerobic bacterial species P gingivalis. Complete deactivation was not achieved, and there was a variation in effect dependent on the time of active sonication, with greater sonication times leading to greater kill rates. This data may partially help to explain the ability for ultrasonic debridement to result in the healing of long standing diabetic ulcers, that have been recalcitrant to other forms of treatment.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-19-2582
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), India
Introduction Heart disorders are the major concern of population health worldwide. According to WHO estimates 2018, 17.9 million peoples were died due to cardiovascular disorders. Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective activity of Biofield Energy Treated test item, Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) using rat cardiomyocytes (H9c2). Methods The test item (DMEM) was divided into three parts, first part received one-time Biofield Energy Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and was labeled as the one-time Biofield Energy Treated (BT-I) DMEM, while second part received the two-times Biofield Energy Treatment and is denoted as BT-II DMEM. The third part did not receive any treatment and defined as the untreated DMEM group. Results Cell viability of the test samples by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay showed 89.03% and 98.49% in the BT-I and BT-II groups, respectively suggested a nontoxic and safe in nature of the tested test item. The BT-I group showed 16.01% restoration of cell viability. The level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was significantly inhibited by 50.37% and 49.35% in the BT-I and BT-II groups, respectively compared to the untreated DMEM group. Moreover, percent protection of creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) by 49.48% and 59.79% in the BT-I and BT-II groups, respectively, compared to the untreated DMEM group. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in terms of mean fluorescence unit (FU) was reduced by 6.64% in the BT-I group than untreated DMEM. Besides, BT-I and BT-II groups significantly increased the level of % apoptotic cells by 63.16% and 97.37% (p≤0.05), respectively than untreated DMEM. Conclusion Allover, results envisaged that Biofield Treatment significantly improved different cardiac parameters. Thus, Biofield Energy Treatment (The Trivedi Effect®) could be utilized as a cardio-protectant against several cardiac disorders such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, arrhythmias, heart failure, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, etc.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-19-2589
Ahmadou Diallo AlphaCorresponding author
Ministry of Health
Several studies show that policies to improve maternal and infant health must be contextualised within broader questions and commitments concerning women’s empowerment. There are, however, two-way linkages between women’s empowerment and reproductive services. Certain institutional approaches that support women’s reproductive health can themselves be experienced as empowering whereas others, however well-meaning, can be experienced as disempowering, undermining health and broader goals. It is thus important to discern and support those elements of reproductive services that might have empowerment outcomes, and to avoid others that undermine them. This paper is premised on the hypothesis that approaches to reproductive health that are rooted in women’s life worlds, that support women’s social networks and which enhance women’s confidence and control will have very different empowerment effect from those that subordinate women and their networks to external expertise and (often male) authority and undermine women’s preferences or autonomy. We (a) conduct an audit of positive practices concerning maternal and child health and (b) examine how current support to maternal and infant health articulates with this. Analysis seeks to reposition indigenous knowledge, community wisdom and their secular practices in a way that promotes better health provision that is integrated with these existing practices and that is empowering.