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Sep 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-21-3838
COVID-19 also known as Corona Virus is a new strain of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease. While its virology is yet to be properly understood, its impact by way of human deaths is well registered. Stigma of infected persons is least mentioned as a ‘sub-strain’ that can push people into social isolation and exclusion (like in the book of Leviticus 13) leading to COVID-19 Related Depression (C-19RD). Using inter-disciplinary approach, this paper seeks to understand how this can happen in a COVID-stricken world.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-6759.jpar-21-3844
Acanthus montanusNees T. Anderson (Acanthaceae) has been employed in folk medicine for treatment of different kinds of ailment, but there is dearth of documented information on its therapeutic activities against parasites. In this study, pulverized Acanthus montanusleaf was subjected to four different extraction techniques. The percentage of yields were 25.58%, 31.42%, 11.58% and 3.00% weight by weight (w/w) of crude ethanol extract (CEE), aqueous (AQ), n-butanol (BUT) and chloroform (CHLO) portions, respectively. All the extracts, excluding the chloroform portion were administered to worm-infested mice per os at dose of 1.2 g/kg, 1.4 g/kg, 1.7 g/kg and 2.0 g/kg each for five days consecutive. Mice were euthanized and the adult worm counted for rates of deparasitization. The aqueous extract did not cause significant deparasitization even at the highest dose of 2.0 g/kg. The CEE caused significant (p<0.05) deparasitization rate of 72.35% at 2.0 g/kg dose. The n-butanol portion caused significant (p<0.05) deparasitization rates at doses between 1.4 mg/kg and 2.0 mg/kg (86.17% and 97.04% respectively) compared to figures from distilled water-treated mice (Control) as well as those from mice treated with the aqueous or crude ethanol portion. The 97.04% deparasitization produced by the 2.0 g/kg dose was not stastistically different (p>0.05) from the 100% deparasitization obtained using albendazole at the manufacturer’s recommended dose of 10 mg/kg. This study has demonstrated that the n-butanol extract of Acanthus montanus leaf has profound anthelmintic activity against experimental Heligmosomoidesbakeri infection in mice. Further phytochemical analysis and evaluation is being advocated in large animals and possibly human subjects.
Jun 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-19-2854
Objective Just like their patients, mental health service providers also face stigma. Internalisation of these negative stereotypes could lead to the development of affiliate stigma, reduce their compassion satisfactionand reduce their effectiveness in delivering quality health care to their patients. This study investigated the relationships between affiliate stigma and compassion satisfaction in frontline mental health service providers in a mental health facility in Nigeria. Method This was a cross-sectional study which recruited 183 mental health service providers working in a mental health facility in Nigeria, and who completed questionnaires on affiliate stigma and compassion satisfaction. Results Affiliate stigma among mental health service providers in this study was relatively high (41.5%), and psychiatrists were significantly more likely A to report higher levels of affiliate stigma compared to the psychiatric nurses (p=0.03, OR=0.38,95% CI=0.15 – 0.94). Psychiatrists and Psychiatric nurses who worked for longer hours (> 42 hours per week) reported significantly lower Affiliate stigma (t=2.148, df=28, p=0.04; t=2.118, df=135, p=0.04 respectively). Psychiatrists with high levels of affiliate stigma were more likely to have lower compassion satisfaction, but this was not true of Psychiatric nurses. Mental health service providers who endorse the psychosocial aetiology of mental illness, are significantly more likely to report having experienced high affiliate stigma (F=3.980, df=2, p=0.03). Conclusion The levels of affiliate stigma among mental health service providers in this study was relatively high, particularly among the professional group of psychiatrists. There is an urgent need to address internalization of negative stereotypes among mental health service providers in order to prevent experiences of discrimination among their patients.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-18-2495
Over the years, plants have been a major source of medicines, especially in the rural areas of the developing communities, with probably lack of functional health care facilities and trained health care personnel on hand for emergency medical response. However, with the dynamics and improvement in science and medicine, chemically synthesized drugs were being introduced and used to treat myriad of critical illnesses across board. Nonetheless, these were further strengthened owing to the increasing trend of drug resistance outcome, especially by the emerging and re-emerging infectious microorganisms. Thus, in the light of the above, there is a gradual but increasing steady return to the use of plants as sources of medicine and treatment of antibiotic resistance pathogens and illness across the globe. This study therefore, explores the use of antimicrobial activity of the leaves, stembark and root of Allanblackia floribunda on four bacterial isolates namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. Methylated spirit, ethanol and distilled water were used as the extraction solvents differently. Ethanol extracts proved to be a better solvent compared with the other two while the extracts from distilled water were not active against any of the isolates. However, all the three ethanol extracts were more active against S. aureus while Pseudomonas sp. showed a higher level of resistance to the extracts. The leaves and root of the plant were more active on most of the isolates compared with the stembark as shown in the results section.
Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9359.jot-17-1597
Cutaneous lymphoma after organ transplantation is rare and its diagnosis may be delayed by both atypical clinical manifestations and failure to consider it in the differential diagnosis. Beside skin-directed therapy for the stage, immunosuppression reduction is also important for disease control. We describe a clinical case of mycosis fungoides after renal transplantation and discuss the therapeutic options.
Feb 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4372.jesr-16-1382
Stem cell research is now emerging as most exciting and promising area of modern biomedical research which has enormous potential for easing suffering for many diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes,Cancer and many more. This is now recognized most promising alternate therapeutic choice for some of the diseases which currently have no other option of an effective therapy. The Stem cell therapy is now strengthened by cutting- edge technologies and rigorous standards of clinical research thus rapidly progressed from bench to the clinic.
Jun 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-16-1002
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is a common disease characterized by partial or complete collapse of the upper airway during sleep secondary to functional or anatomical factors. The gold standard method for OSA diagnosis is an overnight polysomnogram demonstrating repetitive obstructive apneas and hypopneas during sleep. OSA syndrome is associated with cardiovascular diseases, stroke and rarely with sudden death. OSA and cervical spine osteophytes share some common risk factors, and their coexistence may cause mechanic respiratory obstruction with a severe sleep apnea. We present a brief overview on this syndrome, its links to the cervical spine pathology and their combined effect on a patient presenting with neurological signs who suddenly died before an effective treatment was possible to perform. This case highlights how a rapid deterioration of the functional balance may be possible even when a clinical condition has been present, known and unchanged for a long period of time and the need to treat adequately a not-so-innocuous pathology without an excessive delay.
Oct 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-14-571
Purpose: To describe a new functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) method for measuring the influence of regular astigmatism, both against-the-rule (ATR) and with-the-rule (WTR), on the human visual cortex. Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. Design: Experimental study. Methods: Images were acquired in two healthy volunteers using a 1.5 T scanner equipped for echo planar imaging. Horizontal and vertical sine wave grating flickering at a frequency of 8 Hz were simultaneously presented during the 20-second stimulation period. During the control period , subjects fixated on a control target. Stimulations were performed under three different conditions that included with hard contact lenses that were equal to emmetropia without astigmatism (condition 1); with hard contact lenses and cylindrical glasses of +6.00D at 0°, imitating WTR (condition 2); and with hard contact lenses and cylindrical glasses of +6. 00 D at 90°, imitating ATR (condition 3). Raw data were processed using in-house software with the significance of activation determined by Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM 99). Results: Although higher activation was found in the primary visual cortex for condition 1 versus conditions 2 and 3, activation in the dorsal pathway was higher in conditions 2 and 3 compared to condition 1. Dorsal pathway activation was also higher in condition 3 versus condition 2. Conclusions: Study findings showed the potential influence of ATR and WTR on the human visual cortex , with fMRI able to detect the influence of regular astigmatism on the visual cortex. Our current results suggest that fMRI may be useful in exploring the influence of astigmatism on vision.
May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2175.jdrt-14-515
Isotretinoin is notorious for having a myriad of mucocutaneous side effects including cheilitis, xerodermia, facial erythema, pruritis, hair thinning, and brittle nails, among others. Although photosensitivity is considered to be one of the side effects of oral isotretinoin therapy, cutaneous hyperpigmentation has not, to the best of our knowledge, yet been reported as a side effect. This report presents a case of striking facial hyperpigmentation in a patient on oral isotretinoin.
Jan 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-14-572
Purpose: Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Even in an uneventful cataract surgery, surgically induced astigmatism remains the major hurdle in attaining good unaided visual acuity post surgery. If pre-existing corneal astigmatism is not corrected at the time of surgery, it will result in more postoperative astigmatism; therefore, it is important to correct pre-existing corneal astigmatism. Material & Methods In this prospective study, 100 eyes of 100 age and sex matched patient’s with comparable preoperative astigmatism and visual acuity were divided in two groups according to pre operative corneal astigmatism. SIG (superior scleral incision group) included 50 eyes with steeper vertical axis and TIG (temporal corneal incision group) included 50 eyes with steeper horizontal axis. SIG and TIG were subjected to superior scleral tunnel and temporal corneal tunnel incisions respectively. Corneal astigmatism was measured preoperatively and at 1, 2 and 6 weeks postoperatively. Results: The mean postoperative astigmatism in SIG and TIG after 6 weeks was 0.545 ± 0.51D and 0.59 ± 0.48 D in comparison to preoperative astigmatism of 1.105 ± 0.54 D and 1.120 ± 0.49 D respectively. The difference was statistically significant in both the groups with P< 0.001 for both groups. The difference in surgically induced astigmatism between the two groups was not significant at any point of time after surgery (p>0.05). Conclusion: Incision site on steeper axis helps in reduction of pre-existing corneal astigmatism in cataract surgery. Both superior scleral and temporal corneal incisions help in neutralization of approx. 0.4-0.7 D of astigmatism.
Feb 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-26-5964
The combination of ultrasonography (US) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been proposed as a multimodal imaging strategy capable of uniting realtime softtissue assessment with highresolution threedimensional visualization of osseous structures. This study critically evaluated whether such integration provides measurable diagnostic or workflow advantages in mandibular imaging. Despite strong theoretical justification, the combined use of US and CBCT failed to demonstrate clinically meaningful improvements in diagnostic accuracy, confidence, or efficiency when compared with CBCT alone. Fundamental physical mismatches, hardware incompatibilities, geometric constraints, and operatordependent variability limited the anticipated synergistic benefits. These negative findings underscore the importance of reporting unsuccessful integration attempts to guide future research and prevent premature clinical adoption of technically incompatible imaging paradigms.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5613
Background Domestic violence among HIV discordant couples poses significant public health challenges, affecting treatment adherence and HIV transmission risks. This study examined factors contributing to domestic violence among HIV discordant couples in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 HIV discordant couples from eleven health centers using stratified systematic sampling. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis. Results Domestic violence prevalence was 41.1% physical violence, 34.2% sexual coercion, and 52.3% emotional abuse. Key socio-demographic risk factors included female gender (56% vs. 29% males, p<0.001), older age (61% in ≥55 years vs. 32% in 18-24 years, p=0.004), unemployment (55% vs. 34% formal employment, p=0.014), and financial hardship (63% vs. 25% comfortable situations, p=0.002). Behavioral factors included alcohol use (58% vs. 38%, p=0.021), substance abuse (62% vs. 35%, p<0.001), and poor conflict resolution (72% vs. 25%, p<0.001). Contextual factors like hostile HIV disclosure reactions (68% vs. 34%, p<0.001) and HIV-related stigma (60% vs. 35%, p<0.001) significantly increased violence risk. Conclusions Domestic violence among HIV discordant couples is multifactorial, driven by socio-economic, behavioral, and HIV-related factors. Integrated interventions addressing economic empowerment, conflict resolution skills, stigma reduction, and couple-centered counseling are urgently needed.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5715
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
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
The journey from personalized medicine to customized nutrition represents a significant paradigm shift in healthcare, emphasizing the holistic method for a person's or girl's well-being. in this transition, the know how of the unique genetic makeup , metabolic profile, and way of lifestyles elements of everybody will become paramount. customized medicinal drug has long centered on tailoring scientific remedies to the genetic and physiological traits of sufferers, optimizing efficacy, and minimizing detrimental effects. Now, custom-designed nutrients increase this idea further, recognizing that weight reduction plays an essential function in health and disease prevention. Key to this evolution is the mixing of advanced technology together with genomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, allowing the suitable identification of dietary styles and nutritional requirements tailored to a person's particular desires. This summary explores the trajectory of this adventure, highlighting the pivotal characteristic of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and researchers. With the useful resource of leveraging slicing facet generation and records-pushed strategies, personalized vitamins keep the promise of revolutionizing knowledge we method nutritional interventions, moving some distance from generalized guidelines towards targeted strategies tailored to all people's precise organic make up and way of life. expertise, traumatic conditions which include accessibility to this technology, ethical issues, and the desire for sturdy, proof-primarily based practices remain. In conclusion, the shift from customized treatments to personalized nutrient expertise is a transformative generation in healthcare, empowering people to take proactive management of their health through tailor made nutrition interventions. This summary underscores the importance of endured studies and collaboration in figuring out the entire functionality of personalized vitamins in selling health and well-being.
Aug 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3066-8042.jac-25-5652
Background Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adulthood is increasingly recognized not only as a psychiatric condition but also as a trait with behavioral and occupational implications—particularly in high-stakes, fast-paced financial environments. Traits such as impulsivity, sensation seeking, and altered reward sensitivity may influence decision-making among individuals engaged in stock trading or high-risk investment professions. Objective This systematic review and meta-analytic synthesis aims to investigate the relationship between ADHD, impulsivity, gender differences, and financial risk behavior, with a particular focus on decision-making outcomes in real or simulated trading contexts. Methods Seventeen peer-reviewed studies published between 2008 and 2025 were included. Studies employed behavioral experiments, fMRI paradigms, neurochemical analysis (e.g., glutamate levels), and ecological financial assessments to examine impulsive traits and investment behaviors among adults with and without ADHD. Both clinical samples and occupational cohorts (e.g., brokers, retail investors) were analyzed. The analysis followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results ADHD symptoms—particularly impulsivity and reward hypersensitivity—were associated with increased delay discounting, higher risk-taking, and diminished cognitive control in financial tasks. Neuroimaging data revealed hypoactivation in prefrontal control regions and hyperactivation in reward-related circuits (e.g., ventral striatum). Gender-stratified analyses showed that males with ADHD displayed stronger preference for immediate rewards, higher portfolio turnover, and greater volatility. Preliminary evidence also suggests an overrepresentation of ADHD traits in high-frequency trading roles. Conclusion ADHD-related impulsivity significantly modulates financial risk behavior, particularly in high-stakes and fast-paced contexts such as trading. A convergence of behavioral, neurobiological, and ecological findings suggests that males with ADHD are disproportionately prone to rapid, high-risk financial decisions, whereas females may demonstrate greater regulatory control. These insights underscore the need for gender-sensitive interventions, occupational screening, and tailored psychoeducation. As financial environments become increasingly automated and fast-paced, understanding the neurocognitive vulnerabilities of individuals with ADHD may not only protect personal outcomes but also enhance systemic financial stability.
Jun 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5559
Background HIV status disclosure is a complex process influenced by multiple factors beyond health system support. Understanding these factors is essential for developing comprehensive interventions to promote disclosure and improve HIV prevention and care outcomes. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 health facilities offering comprehensive HIV/AIDS care in Mukono district, Uganda. Data was collected from 317 clients through interview-guided questionnaires. Data was entered using EPI data and analyzed using SPSS version 16, including logistic regression to identify factors associated with disclosure. Results Multiple factors influenced HIV status disclosure. Individual factors included knowledge about HIV (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.45-3.78), self-efficacy (OR=3.12, 95% CI: 1.87-5.21), and psychological readiness (OR=2.89, 95% CI: 1.76-4.75). Relationship factors included relationship quality (OR=3.56, 95% CI: 2.13-5.94), communication patterns (OR=2.78, 95% CI: 1.65-4.69), and anticipated partner reaction (OR=4.23, 95% CI: 2.54-7.05). Community factors included perceived stigma (OR=0.34, 95% CI: 0.21-0.56), cultural norms (OR=0.45, 95% CI: 0.27-0.75), and religious beliefs (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.12-3.14). Structural factors included economic dependence (OR=0.38, 95% CI: 0.23-0.63) and access to support services (OR=2.45, 95% CI: 1.47-4.08). Conclusions HIV status disclosure is influenced by a complex interplay of individual, relationship, community, and structural factors. Effective interventions to promote disclosure must address these multiple levels of influence, going beyond health system support to create enabling environments for disclosure at the individual, relationship, community, and structural levels.
May 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-5526.jmid-25-5466
Information on adverse drug event (ADE) assessment and prevention within Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is difficult for clinicians to use and produces wide-ranging results. Challenges include inconsistent ADE and drug product definition and documentation, workflows, terminology standardization, interoperability, and clinical decision support (CDS) to inform clinical decision-making within EHRs. These factors contribute to care issues for clinicians, such as alert fatigue and provider burden for clinicians and medical errors, patient harm, and even death for patients. Clinicians play the primary role in documenting, reviewing, detecting, and preventing ADEs within EHRs. It is essential that clinicians, clinical informaticists, nursing informaticists, pharmacy informaticists, and the health informatics profession understand the current electronic ADE paradigm to advocate for improved detection and prevention of ADEs within EHRs.
Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-24-5317
Adolescence in Cameroon, as in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, is often marked by early childbearing. Studies have shown a national prevalence of adolescent deliveries to be around 14.2% - 14.4%, a higher rate than the average for sub-Saharan Africa This presents a unique challenge for young mothers, who must navigate the complex process of identity reorganization while still navigating their own adolescence with its multiple changes. This article explores the experiences of primiparous (first-time) Cameroonian adolescents as they transition from daughters to mothers. The objective of this article is to understand how identity reorganization takes place among primiparous Cameroonian adolescents who pass without transition from the status of daughter to the status of mother. Drawing on qualitative data from semi-structured interviews, with seven participants chosen on the basis of selection criteria, the article examines the psychological, social, and cultural factors that shape this identity shift. An interview guide with three main themes made it possible to collect verbatim comments from the participants. The thematic analysis highlights the challenges faced by these young mothers, such as navigating social stigma, managing emotional upheaval, and balancing motherhood with their own developmental needs. The findings of this study highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of identity reorganization among primiparous Cameroonian adolescents. The social stigma associated with early childbearing, coupled with the emotional and practical demands of motherhood, can pose significant challenges to these young women. However, a study on a larger sample could reveal the resilience and resourcefulness of some adolescents, who find support within their communities and employ various coping mechanisms to navigate this transition. Finally, the article discusses the implications of these findings for adolescent maternal health interventions and social policy in Cameroon.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5257.ijgp-24-5041
Introduction Globally, 36.7 million individuals live with HIV/AIDS, with 2.5 million new cases annually. Youth (14-25 years) account for 45% of these new infections. Those aged 15-24 years are less likely to be aware of their HIV status and engage in HIV care compared to older adults. This study explores the use of HIV self-testing to improve access to HIV care among Kenyatta University undergraduates. Objective To identify barriers and facilitators to HIV self-testing in this group. Methodology Employing multistage cluster sampling, 398 students were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire. Results Of the participants (median age 21 years, 1:1.03 male-to-female ratio), 91.7% understood HIV's seriousness, with sexual intercourse as the primary transmission mode. Self-testing usage was 28.8%. Key barriers included fear of partner reaction, stigma, and lack of confidence. Significant facilitators were being female, knowledgeable about HIV, and sexually active. Conclusion Only 24% had prior HIV testing experience. The study highlights the importance of addressing fears and misconceptions while leveraging knowledge and sexual activity awareness to promote HIV self-testing.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-4938
Public health interest in vaccinations and immune protection has increased with the COVID-19 pandemic. Dairy products are an important source of protein and other nutrients, and there are unresolved research questions regarding the potential health impact of dairy products on the enhancement of immune response. A systematic literature review was conducted to synthesize the published literature reporting the effects of dairy interventions on: 1) the vaccine-specific immune response and 2) immunoglobulins in the absence of vaccination. To assess study validity and quality, we used the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Criteria Checklist. Sixty-one studies (59 clinical trials, 1 cohort, 1 cross-sectional survey) were included, spanning 1983-2017. Ten trials evaluated the effect of dairy intervention on vaccine-specific IgG, IgA, IgM, vaccine-specific antibody titers, seroprotection rates, or seroconversion rates. Of these, 7 reported significant increases with dairy interventions for post-vaccine tetanus antibodies, mean change in tetanus antibody level, total antibody titers to flagellin from Salmonella Adelaide, mean antibody titers to influenza B, influenza-specific IgA and IgG levels, and seroconversion or seroprotection rates for influenza A and B. Fifty-six studies evaluated dairy’s effects on immunoglobulins without vaccinations. The results were heterogenous, with some studies reporting significant enhancement of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgE, or IgG), while others observed no differences between groups. Clinical relevance of the immunoglobulin changes was not investigated in these studies. Dairy products and their components could enhance the efficacy of vaccines. This review highlights the evidence gaps and provides a potential roadmap for additional research.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-24-4918
Access to sexual and reproductive healthcare for sexual minority women is essential to fulfilling their human rights. This qualitative study was conducted in Rivers State, Nigeria, with fifteen participants as key informants. The study addressed the barriers to the sexual and reproductive healthcare needs of lesbians, bisexual women and sex workers in Port Harcourt metropolis. To address these barriers, the study answered the research questions on what access barriers prevent lesbians, bi-women, and sex workers from adequate utilization of sexual and reproductive healthcare services and common mental health issues sexual minority women experience. The study found that the barriers that prevent sexual minority women from accessing sexual and reproductive healthcare services include limited sexual and reproductive health information on available services offered by the health facilities, prejudice from healthcare providers and lack of social acceptance. Common mental health issues experienced as a result of these limitations are self-doubt over sexual orientation, trauma from threats, and parental pressure over marriage. To mitigate these barriers, the study recommends training healthcare providers on inclusive sexual and reproductive healthcare and to eliminate stigma and discrimination to improve access. Additionally, an improvement in laws and increased agency of sexual minority women to minimize negative mental health experiences. Finally, it also recommends creating a social group for sexual minority women to share experiences, support each other and learn about their sexual and reproductive healthcare will minimise barriers.
Nov 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-23-4766
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.
Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-2818.jfb-23-4605
Background Immunological abnormalities are currently under scrutiny to potentially unravel the etiology of frustrating cases of unexplained female infertility (UFI). Objectives To explore the prevalence of immunological abnormalities in the levels of total immunoglobulins and complements in the cases of UFI. Methods Females with a history of UFI were included in this cross sectional study. They were consulted at the clinical immunology clinic at the King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH). Their demographics, clinical features, total immunoglobulins and complements tests results were collected and analyzed for any relationship. Results One hundred and twenty-one cases of UFI with an average age of 34 ± 5.6 (range from 23 to 49 years old) were studied. Secondary infertility was predominant in 99 cases (81.8%). An overall prevalence of at least one abnormal level of total immunoglobulins or complements was found in 65 cases (55.1%). The predominant immunological abnormalities were elevated levels of immunoglobulins (hypergammaglobulinemia) in 51 cases (43.2%), high IgG in 26 cases (22%), high IgA in 14 cases (11.9%), and high IgM in 11 cases (9.3%). This was followed by elevated levels of complements (hypercomplementemia) in C4 in nine cases (8.5%). A significant association was found between high C4 group and some parameters of infertility, including primary infertility (p = 0.005), no pregnancy (p = 0.001), no abortion (p = 0.047), in comparison to normal C4 group. Moreover, a statistically significant association was found between high IgA group and abortion in comparison to normal IgA group (p = 0.054). Conclusion At least one abnormal level of total immunoglobulins or complements was detected in more than half of the UFI cases. The commonest abnormalities were hypergammaglobulinemia (IgG, IgM, IgA) and hypercomplementenemia (C4), which showed a potential association with some infertility parameters. These findings may encourage the screening of general immunological tests to explore promising new immunopathology in UFI.
Mar 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-22-4381
Background Ageing is a life process in which progressive molecular, cellular, physiological and anatomical changes manifesting in humans and animals including other organisms lead to the decline of biological functions. Immunoglobulins (Igs) are glycoprotein molecules produced by white blood cells mainly B lymphocytes following signal transduction as a result of their interaction with pathogenic microbes or poisonous substances introduced into the body systems. They elicit responses against the side effects of pathogens and poisons in which their response efficiency usually declines as we are ageing. Objective Thus, the similarities between Igs’ immune response against the different amounts of xenobiotics and the biological changes associated with ageing have been systematically assessed using the reports of different study results on humans and animals. Methods First, a literature search was carried out in google, PubMed and google scholar using planned search terms related to the title of this study. Review and original articles were retrieved, downloaded and saved on a computer. And then the effects of different factors i.e. xenobiotics, age, sex and lifestyle-based practices on the levels of serum Igs (IgG, IgA and IgM) in animals and humans have been studied using a systematic review of different literature sources. Finally, the relationship between the findings of various studies has been assessed and judgment on the possible cause of ageing has been made. Results The findings of different research have demonstrated that the signaling efficiency of immunoglobulin M (IgM) has been limited by the amount of test compounds administered to study Balb c mice in the oral route. The response efficiency of IgM immune response against the lower doses of test compounds were high compared to the higher doses of test compounds which was low. The results of different other studies also demonstrated that the decline of serum IgM levels was associated with ageing. The relationship between alcohol consumption and the concentration of serum Igs was also described in the report of different studies. These studies have shown that there was lower level of IgG in the blood serum of alcohol consumers compared to non-consumers. The study has also demonstrated a lower level of serum IgM with higher alcohol consumption and higher serum concentration with moderate beer consumption. Conclusion The trajectory of Igs’ immune response against different amounts of xenobiotics was highly associated with the trajectory of biological changes during ageing. These research findings might be the possible evidence to conclude that ageing is caused by the foodstuffs and non-foodstuffs we usually consume, the lifestyles we usually experience and the way of life we usually live in the environment which gradually defiling the natural processes of the body.
Dec 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-22-4371
Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV infection, only around 25% of at-risk individuals in the United States have accessed a prescription. One way to increase PrEP uptake is through the sexual health screening of patients and linkage to PrEP in primary care settings. The objective of this analysis was to assess the barriers and implementation strategies during a screening and linkage to PrEP pilot intervention. Primary care patients were screened for PrEP indication during routine primary care visits. Of the 1,225 individuals screened, 1.8% (n=22) were eligible for PrEP and from those, 77.3% (n=17) attended the specialist appointment and were prescribed PrEP. Primary care patients (n=30) and providers (n=8) then participated in semi-structured interviews assessing their experience with the pilot intervention. Using an applied thematic analytic approach, patients and providers identified barriers and related improvement strategies that could be classified into four main categories: 1) Financial Barriers: Individual- vs. Clinic-level Considerations 2) The Role of Stigma, Discomfort, and Cultural Factors 3) Logistical Hurdles and Streamlining the Intervention, and 4) The Lack of PrEP Knowledge and the Need for Education. Findings support the accepatability and feasibility of screening for PrEP in primary care along with appropriate implementation strategies. This study suggests that because of the high volume of patients seen in primary care, sexual health screenings and linkage to PrEP interventions have the potential to reduce new incident HIV infections among diverse sexual minority men.
Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3757
Background The pandemic has disrupted the lives of many globally including persons with disabilities. These disruptions are universal. However, the vulnerable communities are more affected. Purpose The study examines impacts on persons with disabilities to share knowledge and inform interventions that ensure persons with disabilities are supported. Methodology The study is a systematic literature review using different search engines to search for scholarly articles all over the globe. Results Persons with disabilities have been negatively impacted in numerous ways: lack of access to healthcare services, inadequate rehabilitation services, increased human rights violation, stigmatization and discrimination, increased risk of dying, being subjected to violence, losing financial income, lack of access to education and treatment, increased in neglect and traumatization, poverty, lack of access to food, decreased in community support; and worse of all, in comparison with the overall population, the death of persons with disabilities during the Covid-19 is higher. These impacts were precipitated by inaccessible built environment and sense of touching, lack of disability sensitive policies, increased prevalence of risk factors, difficulties in adhering to WHO recommendations, pervasiveness of underlying health conditions, lack of disability-friendly information and inclusive intervention, national budget cuts; and poorly funded institutions. Conclusion Persons with disabilities have been negatively impacted due to many risk factors peculiar to them.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3850
The aim of the study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of the Biofield Treated/Blessed proprietary test formulation consisting of essential ingredients viz. minerals (zinc, magnesium, iron, and copper) and vitamins (B6, B12, and D3) in male Sprague Dawley rats. Each ingredient of the test formulation was divided into two parts. One part was denoted as the control without any Biofield Energy Healing Treatment/Blessing, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed sample, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment/Blessing by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi remotely. Additionally, three group of animals were also received Biofield Energy Treatment per se (at day -15) under similar conditions. The parameters were assessed such as immune biomarkers (IgM, IgG, IgA, IgE, CD4+, CD8+, and CD28+), biochemistry and hematology and histopathology. The experimental results showed IgG level was significantly increased by 10.70% and 8.03% in the G6 (Biofield Energy Treatment per se at day -15) and G8 (Biofield Treatment per se to animals plus Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15) groups, respectively as compared with untreated test formulation (G4). Additionally, CD8+ count was significantly increased by 20.67% in the G8 group, while CD28+ count was significantly increased by 11.70%, 8.32%, and 9.82% in the G7 (Biofield Energy Treated test formulation at day -15), G8, and G9 (Biofield Treatment per se (day -15) to animals plus untreated test formulation) groups, respectively after Biofield Energy Treatment to the animals as compared with the untreated test formulation. In hematological analysis, platelet count was increased in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups by 40.69%, 27.95%, 26.67%, 38.58%, and 28.28%, respectively compared with the disease control (G2) group. Biochemical parameters showed significant decrease in the level of creatinine by 32.14% in the G9 group as compared with the G2 group. Further, animal body weight, feed intake, relative organ weight, and histopathological findings of all the tested groups did not show any abnormal findings with respect to the safe and non-toxic treatment strategies. Overall, the experimental data concluded that the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed test formulation showed considerable improved cellular and humoral immune response as compared with the untreated test formulation. Thus, the Trivedi Effect®-Biofield Energy Healing Treatment per se and the test formulation has the significant capacity for immunomodulatory effect, stress management and anti-aging by improving overall health.
Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-0207.jbr-20-3568
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.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3261
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.
Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-19-2974
According to the results of our laboratory the theory of immune dysfunction, the theory on the genetic architecture of ASD, the disrupted cortical connectivity theory and the theory on the contribution of cerebellum to ASD have shown fundamental experimental evidences to support the core symptoms of the complex and enigmatic physiopathology of autism spectrum disorder. The additional hypothesis about the neurogenesis in the amygdala, the contribution of oxytocin, vasopressin, the mirror neuron network, and mitochondrial dysfunction described are stimulating and interesting approaches that deserve further systematic basic and clinical neuroscience research.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-19-2847
Background Carissa carandas L. is a well-known wild fruit plant distributed through-out the India and also present in other countries. The fruits are rich in nutrients and minerals. A number of medicinally important phytochemicals such as carrisone, carindone, carandinol, lupeol, scopoletin, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, myo-inositol, β-amyrin, Des-n-methylnoracronycine etc. have been reported from the extract of this plant. Being safe and cost effective molecules, the activity of phytochemicals against HIV-1 enzymes needs to be screened. Objective The aim of this study was to screen the potent phytocompound of C. carandas against human immunodeficiency virus-1 using docking method. Methods Total nine compounds viz. carandinol, caridone, carrisone, lupeol, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, rutin, scopoletin and ursolic acid were used for in-silico study towards drug development against human immunodeficiency virus-1 reverse transcriptase (HIV-1RT; PDB ID: 1REV) and human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease (PDB ID:1EBY) using Autodock software. Results The qualitative characterization of the extracts showed the presence of a number of phytochemicals such as phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, terepnoids, terpenes, steroids, glycosides etc. Carandinol was observed as most effective anti-HIV-1 molecule having lowest binding energy and small inhibition coefficient. Another compound, p-coumaric acid, showed least effectiveness against human immunodeficiency virus- 1 reverse transcriptase or human immunodeficiency virus-1 protease showing highest binding energy and inhibition coefficients among all the evaluated phytocompounds. Conclusion The in-silico study demonstrated that some phytoconstituents of C. carandas exhibit potential anti-human immunodeficiency virus -1 activity and hence can be optimized to develop as a drug candidate in future.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-19-2779
This study evaluated the behavioural response and toxicity of paraquat dichloride to fingerlings of Clariasgariepinus. The fishes were acclimatized for 14 days and exposed to sublethal concentration of 0.00 ppm, 16.56 ppm, 22.08 ppm, 27.60 ppm, 33.12 ppm and 38.64 ppm. A 24 hours’ renewal bioassay was adopted in this study. Results showed that the fishes exhibited change in swimming, opercular movement, body pigmentation, surfacing and air gulping. Mortality rate increased significantly at p<0.05 as the concentration of the toxicant increased as well as the exposure period. LC50 values at 24, 48, 72 and 96 were 59.95, 47.59, 38.12 and 26.18ppm, respectively. Based on the results, Paraquat dichloride users need to discard the remains of empty cans properly to avoid contamination. Also there is need to exercise caution when using paraquat dichloride based herbicides in agricultural fields close to surface water resources.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-19-2722
Onychogryphosis is one of the main clinical findings in dogs with visceral leishmaniasis (VL); however, research focusing on the subungual area of infected dogs is scarce. This study aims to assess the subungual area of dogs with VL that presented or not onychogryphosis by means of histopathological analyses and immunohistochemical studies (parasite burden). The third digit of the thoracic and pelvic limbs of Leishmania infantum naturally infected dogs was collected regardless of sex, breed or age. The animals were split into two groups, dogs with onychogryphosis (G1; n=7) and without onychogryphosis (G2; n=9). The digits were evaluated in four areas (dorsal epidermis/dermis, ventral epidermis/dermis, dorsal matrix/dermis and ventral matrix/dermis). All lesions observed (mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate, vacuolar degeneration of basal keratinocytes, dermoepidermal clefting and pigmentary incontinence) were present in both groups, being more severe in the digits of G1 group. Immunostaining of the amastigote forms of Leishmania infantum were observed in the different areas of the digit, with statistical difference between the dorsal epidermis/dermis area and the dorsal matrix/dermis of G1 group. In conclusion, the main histopathological alteration of the digit of dogs with VL is mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate and parasite burden, especially in cutaneous tissue adjacent to the nail matrix. This aspect can influence the onychogryphosis development, due to the presence of the parasite and by inflammatory mediators released in the nail microenvironment.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-19-2480
Purpose To describe spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and enhanced depth image OCT (EDI-OCT) findings of multifocal serpiginoid choroditis (MSC) , including affected layer of retinal involvement, changes at the vitreoretinal interface, and response to therapy. Methods A retrospective review of 20 eyes (14 patients) with MSC. Each patient underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination, fundus photography, fundus autoflorecence (FAF) and OCT imaging of the affected retina at the initial visit and on each follow-up. Results In acute stage, SD-OCT showed hyperreflective areas involving the outer retinal layers which include retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), photoreceptor outer segment tips (POST), inner segment–outer segment (IS/OS) junction, external limiting membrane (ELM), and outer nuclear layer (ONL) with choroidal and intraretinal layer cells infiltrate. EDI-OCT showed increase choroidal thickness. As the lesions began to heal, irregular, knobby elevations of outer retinal layers appeared (RPE, POST, IS/OS junction, and ELM could not be distinguished) with significant decrease in choroidal and intraretinal cells. On complete healing, loss of RPE, POST, IS/OS junction, and ELM in SD-OCT scan and absent of the choroidal and intraretinal cells and continous hyperreflactivity of the choroid (increased penetrance). Conclusion SD-OCT and EDI-OCT provides high-resolution detail regarding ultrastructural changes in vitreoretinal interface, outer retina and choroid during the course of the lesion. Serial SD-OCT and EDI-OCT also provides further insight into response to therapy by observing choroidal and intraretinal cells.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-612X.ijpr-18-2460
Conflict control is the ability to choose relevant information and ignore disturbing information in task processing. Previous studies have found that emotions have a certain influence on conflict control, and the research results of positive emotions and negative emotions affect conflict control are inconsistent. This study attempted to explore the effects of different emotional valorization on conflict control, using images of happy, fearful and sad emotional faces to investigate the effects of different emotional valorization and different emotional types on conflict control. The experiment selected 40 participants and used the variable-face Stroop paradigm. The study found that no matter what emotional task, there is a significant conflict effect. The effects of different valency on conflict control are different. All three emotions have a significant effect on conflict control, and positive emotions play a role in promoting conflict control.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-18-1973
Introduction Adherence to ART is a challenge among pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS. This has an effect on the health of the mother and the unborn child. While studies have been done, it has shown that adherence during pregnancy is a challenge Virological and clinical success depend critically on high adherence to ART because with low adherence. The success of expanded ART coverage in improving health outcomes depends on adherence to treatment. During pregnancy, a compromised Virological response to ART also increases risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. This study was carried out to determine factors that influence adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV positive pregnant women in Lusaka district of Zambia. Methodology This was a qualitative study which used a case study approach. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. The collected data was analysed using a thematic analytical approach. Results 17 pregnant women living with HIV /AIDS in Lusaka had Challenges with adherence to ART. The study explored factors related to adherence to ART among pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS. ART adherence was found to be low. The findings call for the need to reduce on social stigma. The results confirmed that there is low adherence to ART among pregnant women living with HIV /AIDS in Lusaka. Conclusion Adherence to ART among pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS is a challenge for Zambian pregnant women. Improved levels of adherence to ART is hampered by fear of social stigma, and fear of being blamed by partners if they disclosed their status. Stigmatisation needs to be addressed because nearly all the participants expressed this factor. There is need to address the HIV/AIDS stigma very seriously in order for society to look at HIV/AIDS like any other illness.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-18-2456
Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is now recognized not only for its importance in promoting bone health in children and adults, but also for its other health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as autoimmune diseases, common cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Ultraviolet radiation of the sun with wavelengths of 290-310 nm penetrates into the skin and converts 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which quickly transforms to vitamin D3. Vitamin D (D represents either D2 or D3) made in the skin or ingested through diet is biologically inert and requires two successive hydroxylations first in the liver on carbon 25 to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH)D and then in the kidney for a hydroxylation on carbon 1 to form the biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) 121419. The concentration of the produced 25-hydroxy vitamin D in blood circulation is 1,000 times more than 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D 4, and it is regarded as a standard indicator of vitamin D status in humans 3. 25-hydroxy vitamin D half-life is about 2-3 weeks and it is regulated by calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) to some extent. 25-hydroxy vitamin D content also reflects the amount of vitamin D produced in the skin after exposure to sunlight or received through food intake 56. Guidelines for vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency defined by serum 25(OH)D concentrations have been published from many countries and regions all over the world 7891011. Vitamin D deficiency is a pandemic problem. According to global estimations, more than one billion people around the world suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Among Iranian population, the incidence of vitamin D deficiency varies from 2.5 to 98.5% based on geographic area 1213. Various factors may give rise to vitamin D deficiency, including skin pigments, low levels of vitamin D in diet (insufficient fish oil and egg yolk intake), malnutrition, genetic factors, exclusive breast feeding, vitamin D deficiency of mother during pregnancy, prematurity, chronic use of drugs (e.g., anticonvulsants, aluminum-containing anti-acids, rifampcin, isoniazid, antifungal drugs, antiviral drugs, and glucocorticoids), winter and obesity 113. Cultural habits, the need for full body coverage during outdoor activities and the lack of sunlight programs are the risk factors for low vitamin D levels in women 151617. Children enter foster care due to early childhood adverse experiences such as poor prenatal and infant health care, food insecurity, chronic stress, and the effects of abuse and neglect. As a result, they are at higher risk for poor physical, psychological, neuroendocrine and neurocognitive outcomes compared to others. Foster children are at risk for growth and nutritional deficiencies due to their poor nutritional environment prior to placement in foster care. Insufficient caloric intake results in growth deficiencies. Evidence showed that the risk of stunting and underweight is high in this population 18. The risk of developing hypovitaminosis D was significantly higher in children living in foster homes. One reason is that they are at higher risk of child abuse, emotional deprivation and physical neglect than children living with their families. Moreover, these children most likely do not spend much time outdoors and they lack adequate sun exposure. Another reason is that as children grow up in institutional care, they shift from a diet of vitamin D–fortified formula milk to cooked food, which may not be fortified with vitamin D 1. Iranian government has made some efforts to apply efficient interventions to reduce the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, and the country’s healthcare system should be managed through accurate planning. Yet, in this country, studies on vitamin D deficiency in children living in foster homes are very limited, and given that timely diagnosis and treatment of this deficiency is vital, this research is conducted in Ali Asghar foster home in Mashhad, Iran.
Nov 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-18-2291
In The Gambia like all nations, drug abuse is seen as a social and health problem that has many serious implications for the physical, social, psychological and intellectual development of the victims more especially, the children. Therefore, it continues to be a concern to families, community leaders, educators, social workers, health care professionals, academics, government and its development partners. Though there are some studies on drug abuse, there is none on children and drug abuse focusing on the street children the most vulnerable category. Street children are hypothesized to be more at risk of any epidemic including drug abuse. This study sought to determine the risk and prevalence of drug abuse among street children focusing on those in the car parks. The research was focused on six critical areas: level of knowledge of drug abuse, perception towards it, level of knowledge of the causes of it in the community and among street children, level of knowledge of negative impacts of it, level of knowledge of the preventive methods; and level of knowledge of the support services and treatments needed by victims. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from thirty five participants (i.e. one driver and six casual apprentices from each of the five car parks) were interviewed. The data was presented and analyzed using tables and percentage. The findings revealed among other things, that there is high level of awareness of drug abuse but the feelings towards it are mixed. Like other children, street children are abusing drugs mainly due to peer influence with the ultimate objective of getting high to relief stress, group recognition, desire to be trusted by peers, etc. Similarly, participants are highly aware of the negative impacts encompassing fighting, stealing, mental illness, etc. To finance the behavior, victims are engaged in all types of dangerous antisocial behavior including romantic ones exposing them to a range of diseases including STIs and HIV/AIDS. Marijuana is the most commonly abused drug. Though in the minority, some have started experimenting cocaine/coke, hashish; and heroin. While participants have good knowledge of the critical methods to fight drug abuse, the support services needed by victims, victims are mostly reluctant to seek the services not only because they are hard to find but fear societal stigmatization, exclusion and discrimination and professionals’ maltreatments.
Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-18-2441
Physiological changes in musculature allow widespread movements in human body. Correspondingly, varying in muscle prototypes characterise direct different training paradigms in therapeutics practice or can governs athletic performances. Mode of muscle contraction type are isometric, concentric or eccentric. Great examples of concentric exercise are walking- up-hill, stair ascent and lifting a dumbbell in bicep curl or pushing a bar up. Examples of eccentric muscle actions are walking - down-hill, satire decent and, isokinetic arm and leg extensions. During isometric muscle contraction the length of muscle does not change while muscle exert force .This type of movement can be seen while a person performs a maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs).Eccentric exercises increasing the concentric and isometric contraction as well. Performing the eccentric muscle contraction in daily life enhance quality of life and lifespan due to increasing muscle strength with low cost of energy consuming and thus it can apply in variety of domains. A simple walking task such as downhill - walking (i.e. 30 min) can provide the aforementioned conditions.
Jun 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-4602.jes-18-2128
Natural selection is a buzzword used to describe the main driving force of evolution. Its creative role is believed to be based on: a) an unlimited variety of organisms caused by hereditary variation and b) a direct connection between hereditary changes and their phenotypic expression. These are the two requirements that can lead to the genetically based changing modalities of characters through “iterations” of natural selection in the series of successive generations. Are these two requirements fulfilled in the nature, however? The present study focuses on the analysis of these two “foundation stones” of natural selection. Firstly, hereditary variation is shown to be essentially non-homogenous. New hereditary characteristics of individuals fall onto a narrow “strip of land” in the sea of potential possibilities. Secondly, the consequences of changes in the genotype of an organism are involved into a system of hierarchical multiple compensation, from the molecular to the biocenotic level. In a way, the signal of hereditary change passes through a series of “system filters” at epigenetic, ontogenetic, physiological, behavioural, populational and biocenotic level. Each filter is represented by multiple feedbacks maintaining the integrity of systems at each level and at all the hierarchical levels taken together. It is in these “system filters” the adaptive nature of characters is formed representing the every individual as a subject to the Law of Multilevel Self-Organization. The emerging understanding of this provides a strong reason to change the evolutionary paradigm from the mainly selectogenetic to the mainly orthogenetic one.
May 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-6655.jcap-18-2086
In 1979, a study conducted by Ehrhardt et al. retrospectively examined childhood behavioral patterns of 30 adults; 15 identified as lesbian women and 15 identified as transmen. All 30 adults had been assigned female at birth, and, as children, all were regarded as “tomboys.” The study found several key factors that distinguished the two cohorts. The goal of this study was to replicate and extend the 1979 study, utilizing a larger sample size and including a reference group of heterosexual women. Given the major social, technological, medical, and legal paradigm shifts that have occurred over the past four decades, we sought to determine if the previous findings still differentiate the cohorts. In light of the exponential rise in the number of gender diverse and dysphoric youth who request treatment, providing optimal, affirmative care and education is paramount, especially since many of these young people seek social and/or medical transition. Exploration of the early behavioral indices of the diverse trajectories may help to inform best practices for optimal care for these young people and their families.
Apr 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-0207.jbr-17-1925
Big data research has become popular and exciting studies in almost all scientific fields such as biology, chemistry, epidemiology, medicine and drug discovery. The various systems and platforms produce large amounts of data every day. It will be very helpful for the researchers and workers to deal with big data if the practical database and useful software are introduced in time. The Journal of Big Data Research (JBR) supplies an efficient and open access publishing platform for big data research. The first issue of JBR aims to foster the dissemination of high-quality big data studies in the biological, medical and chemical database as well as the new algorithm and software for big data processing. The database and computing framework are selected to introduce the development of big data in the biological, medicine and drug discovery. The mature and functional database can be serviced in big data research of scientific fields. It promotes the scientists to extract the useful and essential dataset from the massive data. The grid computing and cloud computing supplies a new paradigm that offers an effective framework of computing and services. The research papers are welcomed from the scopes of the practical database, new algorithm and software for big data studies. All these kinds of papers not only provide the effective application methods and platforms, but also give a good promising future for big data research.
Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-17-1860
We explored the effect of a change in substrate-benzoate (as sole carbon and energy source) concentration in growth medium on the activity of benzoate 1,2-dioxygenase (BDO) of R.opacus 1CP cells, where BDO is the enzyme mediated the initial attack of benzoate. The activity of the enzyme was estimated by a change of respiration of whole freshly harvested bacterial cells (growth of the cells on benzoate) in response to injection of benzoate. It was shown that when concentration of growth substrate-benzoate decreased from 6 g/L to 250 mg/L, the curves of the dependency of the response rate to benzoate on the initial concentration of benzoate demonstrated that kinetics of the process changes from hyperbolic saturation kinetics, or typical Michaelis-Menten kinetics, to sigmoidal dependency of V on S. The semisaturation constant as a characteristic of the strength of substrate binding with BDO changed simultaneously. These changes were accompanied by the increase in the Hill coefficient from 1.02 up to 3.06, hence positive kinetic cooperativity by a substrate was observed for BDO of R.opacus 1CP cells. The influence of this type of cooperativity on viability of rhodococcus in natural environment and causes of the changes mentioned are discussed. It was hypothesized that an increase in substrate concentration in the medium for the growth of the bacterium not only stimulated synthesis of the inducible enzyme (BDO) in the cell but also led to the change in BDO conformation followed by the change in interaction between substrate-binding active sites of enzymes.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-16-1316
The socio-cultural context of illness has become a major research area, and it has made significant contributions to our understanding of the socio-cultural dimensions of illness. In this article, we briefly trace the roots of a socio-cultural approach to illness, and we present some of the key findings of socio-cultural organized under main themes. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy drugs in the treatment of HIV infection is complicated because of many psychosocial factors. The aim of the study was to investigate the psychosocial factors involved in non-compliance with ART among people infected with HIV in Alert Hospital in Ethiopia. To achieve its objective, the study utilized a qualitative method to gather direct, inductive and wealthy information from the participants. The study covered interviews with twenty participants. The participants were selected using purposive sampling technique. The collected data was categorized and analyzed thematically based on the research objective. The results of the study indicated that the major psychological and social factors such as stigma and discrimination, social support, substance abuse, subjective norms, belief system and perceived behavioral control, and various cultural factors may uniquely contribute to deeper and potential barriers to ART adherence. Evaluating changes in the level of knowledge health workers trained in adherence measurements and concerned bodies work for providing relevant and updated information about ART issues for the followers in a convincing way. Therefore, the study has concluded that health workers in all facilities that provide ART would be trained in adherence counseling through formal training.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2638-4469.japb-17-1534
Algae are a class of photosynthetic organisms found in both marine and freshwaters habitats. As these organisms have a short doubling time, they are considered among fastest growing creatures. They have different pathways to fix atmospheric carbon dioxide and to efficiently utilize the nutrients to convert it into biomass. In few years, a focus has been shifted towards these organisms due to their food and fuel production capability. In fuel industry algae biofuels have been emerged as a clean, nature friendly, cost effective solution to other fuels. Algae fuels are categorized into bio-ethanol, biogas, bio-hydrogen, biodiesel and bio-oil. Algae as a food have been explored for different applications as in production of single cell proteins, pigments, bioactive substances, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The present review has been prepared to throw a light on enormous applications of algae as food and fuel and also to provide some information about different commercially available algae products.
Oct 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.JOM-16-1009
Apart from the physical health implications obesity partakes on an individual; it also takes its toll on mental and psychological wellbeing of a person. A vicious cycle starts with hostility based on ‘obesity stigma’, eventually leading the person being stuck in a positive feedback loop. Every attempt to correct his or her obesity problem results in severe detrimental health effects. It is necessary that appropriate awareness programs and legislations are drafted and implemented to strike out the root causes of obesity stigma.
Aug 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-15-750
Background To quantify the underlying rhythmic patterns observed in surface electromyography (SEMG) in patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), to compare rhythmicity of PD gait with normal gait, and to compare overground walking to treadmill gait. Methods Eight individuals with idiopathic PD, and ten individuals with no history of neurological disorders participated. SEMG was recorded from the vastus lateralis, tibialis anterior, lateral gastrocnemius and biceps femoris muscles bilaterally. Each participant performed two trials of overground walking and two trials of treadmill walking at a self-selected comfortable walking speed. SEMG was analyzed using a non-linear statistical model that identified underlying recurrent locomotor patterns, which estimated the relative contribution of central pattern generators to the observed muscle activation signals. An index of rhythmicity was determined from the statistic, R2. Results The rhythmicity of PD gait was significantly higher than that of normal gait (p = .0458). There was also a significant difference between the rhythmicity of overground walking and treadmill walking (p = .0097). Conclusions Individuals with PD appear to walk with muscle activation patterns that are more rhythmic than normal. This suggests that there is more stride-to-stride consistency, and there are fewer postural adjustments and responses to perturbations. We also found that treadmill gait was more rhythmic than overground walking. These findings, although preliminary, challenge the paradigm and current approach to gait retraining of patients with PD.
Apr 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-15-710
Idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2 is a rare retinal condition usually characterized by parafoveal telangiectatic vessels, hyperplastic pigment plaques and seldom a full thickness macular hole or a retinal neovascularisation. Herein we describe an atypical presentation of this disease. Methods Review of the patient’s clinical and angiographic records. Results A 87-year-old white man was diagnosed with idiopathic macular telangectasia type 2. Ophthalmological and angiographic examination disclosed telangiectasia of the parafoveal capillaries together with extensive bilateral granular soft drusen and unilateral retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP). Initially photodynamic therapy with verteporfin (PDT) and subsequently intravitreal injections of bevacizumab were used to treat RAP lesion. This approach provided visual acuity stabilization up to 24 months. Conclusion This case of ours shows that drusen may be a feature of macular teleangiectasia type 2. It also emphasizes that PDT and anti-VEGF therapy are both safe and effective for treating neovascular complications of this disease.
Mar 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-15-739
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is a well-tested, neuroprotective agent that has been shown to retard photoreceptor degeneration in several animal models of retinitis pigmentosa. The molecular mechanisms underlying CNTF-mediated neuroprotection are currently not understood. CNTF could act directly on photoreceptors or it could act indirectly by stimulating Müller glial cells to produce photoreceptor neuroprotective agents. To better characterize CNTF action on Müller cells, we have studied signaling pathways activated by CNTF using an established retinal Müller cell line, rMC-1. RNA was isolated from CNTF-treated cultures, and suppressor of signal transducer and activator of transcription (SOCS3) and Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) transcript levels were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR. Immunoblotting was used to examine activation ofmitogen activated protein kinase (ERK1/2/MAPK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K)/Aktpathways in response to CNTF. Additionally, the level of5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme that plays a key role in cellular energy homeostasis levels, was determined by immunoblotting. CNTF treatment resulted strong upregulation of SOCS3 and GFAP transcripts that were blocked by expression of a dominant-negative STAT3 mutant. CNTF treatment also resulted in transient activation of ERK1/2/MAPK but not PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. There was no change in activation of AMPK. We conclude that CNTF treatment leads to stimulation of JAK-STAT and MAPK signaling pathways but not the PI3K/AKT pathway, associated with cell death, in Müller cells.
Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-15-828
Introduction Working with people who are HIV positive is a herculean task and relevant theories to assist them medically, psychologically, economically, socially and otherwise are necessary. People who are living positively with HIV and AIDS are usually ridiculed, discriminated against, rejected and isolated. Using theories to work with them will help to cushion the negative impacts of HIV and AIDS, especially stigma which has been identified as a major barrier to health care and quality of life in illness management. The fundamental human rights of people living positively with HIV and AIDS should be protected since majority of such rights are usually trampled upon. The review aimed at discussing the potential benefits of using theories to assist people living positively with HIV and AIDS to cope with their various and varying situations in life. Materials and Method: Information for this study was collected by extensive review of recent literature on theories for assisting people living positively with HIV and AIDS. The paper reviews theories that influence long-term behaviour change among people living positively with HIV and AIDS. It assesses the need for using these theories to improve HIV and AIDS intervention in developing countries including Nigeria. In this study, eleven behaviour theories were reviewed. Result It was noted that some of the theories promoted adherence as well as helped to explain the benefits of adherence to HIV and AIDS medication. Also a good number of the theories assisted researchers in designing effective intervention strategies. Conclusion: Further research is needed to determine the effective theories that will increase adherence to long-term treatment regimens of HIV and AIDS. Such theories can be used to alleviate the potential burnout of Caregivers and people living positively with HIV and AIDS who travel long distances for diagnostic procedures and work long hours without adequate remuneration, support and supervision.
Jan 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-180
Perception of Human Immunodeficiency Virus has been topical due to its central place in determining attitudes and care for people living with HIV/AIDS and having implications for the containment of the epidemic. People living with HIV/AIDS face social stigmatization due partly to misconception in the perception of the disease and people living with it and students are not left out in this stigmatization and discrimination. This study aimed at exploring the perception of HIV/AIDS by the students of Obafemi Awolowo University. The study utilized quantitative methodology –questionnaires to elicit information from 160 students on their perception of the disease. The sampling technique was quota sampling technique in which 40 students were randomly selected from each hostel out of the 4 selected hostels. The findings were that majority of the respondents view the disease and people living with it negatively (53.9) and dangerous (30.9) and 66.4 percent of the respondents did not see themselves being vualnerable to contracting the virus. The result further showed a significant association between knowledge and perception of the disease. It was also revealed that there was no significant relationship between perception of the disease and socio-economic status of students. This negative perception has serious implications for students living with HIV/AIDS in the University. In conclusion, the negative students’ perception of the disease and people living with it has serious implications for the containment of the epidemic in that people living with HIV/AIDS would hide their sero-positive status to avoid stigma and would in turn infect others. There is therefore need for intervention to change student perception to positive in the university.
Dec 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-14-397
Immunotactoid glomerulopathy (ITG) is a rare cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage-renal-disease (ESRD). It is often associated with monoclonal gammopathy and/or hematologic malignancy. We report a patient originally diagnosed with ITG in 1998. He presented with nephrotic-range proteinuria, hypertension, and a gradual decline in glomerular filtration rate. A published case report of this patient at the time the disease was originally diagnosed described only a small peak of IgM paraprotein without lymphoma or plasma cell dyscrasia. He was diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance. He later developed ESRD and initiated hemodialysis in 2004. Fourteen years after the diagnosis of ITG and MGUS was made he developed headache, lymphadenopathy, borderline splenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy. Workup revealed a very high level of monoclonal IgM-kappa (4390 mg/dL),and low grade B-cell lymphoma, consistent with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, leading to a diagnosis of Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia (WM). He died shortly thereafter of complicated gram-negative sepsis. To our knowledge this is the first report of WM associated with ITG. The patient's course illustrates that plasma cell dyscrasia and lymphoma can present many years after the original diagnosis of ITG is made and that continued vigilance for these conditions is warranted.
Jul 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-12-172
Despite two decades of intensive research on using metallic iron (Fe0) for environmental remediation and water treatment, basic concerns about their efficiency still prevail. This communication presents the basic idea of the view that challenges the prevailing paradigm on the operating mode of Fe0/H2O systems. The alternative paradigm is in tune with the mainstream science on aqueous iron corrosion. Its large scale adoption will enable a scientifically based system design and increase the acceptance of this already proven efficient technology.
Jun 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-239
As advances in treatment and prevention are starting to decrease the magnitude of the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic in Sub-Saharan Africa, the number of orphans and children surviving Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is growing. To date, little research has been conducted in the care of HIV-infected children in orphanages in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this qualitative study, managing personnel in 10 programs caring for HIV-infected children were interviewed to ascertain perceived barriers to care of these children. While all programs commented on medical infrastructure barriers, respondents felt sociocultural issues were more pressing. After analysis of transcribed interviews, three major themes of poverty, denial/stigma, and cultural differences with outsiders emerged. These findings have implications for international programs that both serve and seek to serve the needs of HIV-infected children and orphans in Africa. Outside funding organizations will need to address local poverty, stigma, and African “ownership” of HIV-positive orphans to ultimately ensure the best care of these vulnerable children.
Dec 2012 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-68
New research suggests that people living with HIV have the potential to be strong advocates for HIV prevention by passing on HIV prevention messages within their social networks. However, there is a paucity of research into the nature and prevalence of HIV prevention behaviours engaged in by HIV clients, and the psychosocial correlates of such advocacy, which are the goals of this analysis. We examined engagement in HIV prevention advocacy among 602 new HIV clients at two clinics in Uganda. Eighty nine percent reported encouraging others to get tested for HIV, 79% told people they know to use condoms when they have sex, and 61% reported discussing HIV more generally with friends and family. A client was classified as fully engaged in HIV prevention advocacy if they reported engaging in all three of the measured HIV prevention advocacy behaviors. In the bivariate analysis, being from the rural study site (p<0.001), higher levels of HIV disclosure to friends (p<0.001), greater hopefulness (p<0.001), and lower levels of depression (p<0.001) and internalized HIV stigma (p<0.001) were associated with full engagement in HIV prevention advocacy. In the multivariate analysis, being from the rural study site (OR=5.461, 95% CI=3.11-9.61), lower levels of internalized HIV stigma (OR=0.524, 95% CI=0.39-0.70) and higher levels of HIV status disclosure to friends (OR=2.040, 95% CI=1.23-3.38) remained significantly associated with full engagement in prevention advocacy. These data suggest that psychosocial adjustment and functioning may play a key role in empowering HIV clients to be advocates for prevention.