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Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-5209.ijen-25-5762
A. Abdellatif MahaCorresponding author
Sudan's ecological landscape is characterized by various zones, including deserts, semi-deserts, and savannas, which host a diverse array of forests, rangelands, and numerous plant and animal species. However, the sustainable management of these resources is becoming increasingly challenging due to human activities and the impacts of climate change. This article presents the results of a research project focused on monitoring and documenting biodiversity in Sudan's semi-arid regions, particularly emphasizing insect diversity. Insects are vital for maintaining ecosystem health through processes such as nutrient cycling, decomposition, pollination, and acting as natural predators to pests. Field surveys were conducted across three Sudanese states—North Kordofan, Gezira, and Khartoum—to assess the diversity of flora and fauna. Specifically, El Rawakeeb semi-arid land in Khartoum state was investigated, which comprised three sites with varying soil elevations: a hilly site at 420 meters above sea level, a flat site at 416 meters, and a valley site at 411 meters. Researchers utilized direct collection methods and butterfly nets to gather insect specimens, which were subsequently preserved and identified for further analysis. Diversity indices, including Simpson’s Diversity Index, Shannon-Wiener Index, and Margalef Richness Index, were computed to compare the biodiversity of these sites, along with metrics for evenness and species richness. Permanova analysis was carried out for insect variation between the study sites. A total of 1541 insect specimens were gathered from El Rawakeeb, encompassing 34 species distributed across 21 families and 9 orders. The order Lepidoptera exhibited the greatest number of species (35.29%), followed by Coleoptera (20.59%). The orders Neuroptera, Orthoptera and Thysanoptera recorded the fewest species (2.94% each). From the hilly site, 514 insect specimens were collected, representing 9 orders, among which Hymenoptera included 4 species, while Lepidoptera had 3 species, and Odonata, Orthoptera, and Thysanoptera each had 1 species. The highest individual counts were recorded for Copriniklobe (dung beetle), Dacus longistylus (fruit fly), Camponotussp. (carpenter ant), and Anax ephippiger (dragonfly). In a flat site, 484 insect specimens were collected, classified into 15 species, 12 families, and 7 orders. The highest individual counts were noted in four species: Onthophagusnuba (dung beetle), Dacus longistylus (fruit fly), Camponotussp. (carpenter ant), and Anax ephippiger (dragonfly). In a valley site, 543 insect specimens were collected, categorized into 17 species, 16 families, and 9 orders. Insect Diversity in three research sites. Simpson's Diversity Index revealed varying levels of insect diversity across the three sites. The valley site exhibited the highest diversity level with an index score of 0.857, followed by the flat site at 0.826, and the hilly site at 0.819. The Shannon diversity index of 2.22 indicated the highest diversity among the three sites, suggesting a relatively diverse insect community. The relative abundance of insects was greatest in the valley site at 35.24%, followed by the hilly site at 33.35%, and the flat site at 31.41%. The Margalef Richness Index indicated a moderate level of richness in the insects collected from the three locations. Certain insect species were found in some sites but were absent in others. The PERMANOVA revealed notable variations among the three study sites (F = 2.24, p-value = 0.035).
Dec 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-22-4218
Oladunni OpeyemiCorresponding author
Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State Nigeria
Growth monitoring activities has been seen as the most effective ways to identify malnutrition and promotes early child development. This has been linked with long term health and social benefits for the child, family and the community. Over the years, the growth monitoring activities have centred round the health workers. Therefore, the study explored task shifting on Mother/ Caregivers capability to undertake growth monitoring roles at the health Facilities in Oyo State Nigeria. Qualitative methods using focused group discussion and Key informant interview guide were used for data collection among 6-8 groups of 10 mothers and 20 health workers providing the service. The data was analysed using inductive coding to generate the themes. The study showed mothers/caregivers low knowledge on growth monitoring and health workers documented some potential challenges encounter during the activities. The mothers/caregivers show low knowledge on growth monitoring. Therefore, mothers/caregivers were willing to take up the role.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-19-3092
S. Tsingotjidou AnastasiaCorresponding author
Laboratory of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Greece
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder characterized mainly by uncontrolled accrual of M- immunoglobulin, secreted by malignant lymphoplasmatic cells. Mast cells interacting with malignant B-cells play an important role at the manifestation of the disease. Utilizing a previous xenotransplantation mouse model, this study evaluates long-term implant viability and quantifies distinct bone marrow mast cell populations along with their dynamics in non-WM and WM human bone implants. Non-WM bone implants were obtained from the femoral head of adult humans undergoing hip arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty, whereas WM human bone implants originated from bone biopsies obtained from the posterior iliac crest of patients with active WM. All bone particles were implanted intramuscularly in twenty-four NOD/SCID mice. Following 3, 4 or 8 months postoperatively, xenografts were removed and studied using special histological techniques to identify mature and immature mast cells. Xenografts survived up to 8 months after implantation presenting normal cytoarchitecture (non-WM) or high-grade neoplastic infiltration and microresorption (WM bone biopsies). Statistical analysis of mast cell populations showed significant elevation regarding time progression and bone marrow microenvironment, thus suggesting the possible influence of malignant cells to the mast cell population in WM. This study presents the extended survival of intramuscular implantation of human adult bone xenografts into NOD/SCID mice and provides additional information on the interaction between mast cells and malignant B-cells.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2572-3030.jcgb-18-2527
Zhang XiCorresponding author
Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, United States
As remarkable advances have been made in immunotherapies, the overall goal of immunotherapy has become the selection of patients and evaluating the benefits of treatment. One of the major obstacles to develop immunotherapies is the lack of effective immune monitoring. Monitoring of key changes in the immune system during immunotherapy (immunomonitoring) provides important insights into efficacy as well as the immune mechanisms of response at the molecular and cellular levels. Immunomonitoring techniques include traditional immunoassays that use specific antibodies to recognize the analytes of interest, new high-throughput immunoassays that target immune cells and nucleic acids, and less classical immunogenomic approaches that rely on genome-wide profiling and computational analysis on various types of clinical samples. Substantial progress has been made in the application of immunomonitoring strategies to pre-clinical and clinical studies, especially for patients with cancer and infectious diseases. Current and emerging immunoassays performed in clinical practice will be examined herein, and immunogenomic approaches that complement these techniques will be highlighted and compared with traditional methods. Finally, we will discuss several new computational methods for analyzing gene signatures for immunomonitoring, including gene expression data profiling by microarray, the nCounter technique, regular RNA-seq, and single-cell RNA-seq. Novel immunomonitoring techniques, especially immunogenomic approaches, will continue to be developed to facilitate assessment of immunotherapeutic response and predict patient outcomes in cancer and infectious disease.
Feb 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-18-1932
Erne PaulCorresponding author
Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Universita della Svizzera Italiana, Lugano, Switzerland
The aim of this study was to assess the use of ambulatory acoustic cardiography during the initial data collection of the longitudinal study of a rural population in Switzerland (n=297, mean age 48.9 ±16.5 years, 57% female). Ambulatory acoustic cardiography non-invasively can assess sleep disordered breathing (SDB) and provides markers of left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. The percentage of the third heart sound detected during sleep decreased significantly across age groups (age < 40 years, 40-60 years, > 60 years) for both genders (males, p=0.04; females, p=0.02). The percentage of a fourth heart sound detected exhibited an increasing trend for both genders with age suggesting increased diastolic dysfunction with aging. Mean electromechanical activation time (EMAT) during sleep was within the normal range across age groups and both genders (male 93.7 ± 11.6 ms, female 94.6 ± 13.0 ms), and did not vary significantly with age. A large proportion of subjects had a high likelihood of sleep disordered breathing (17.6%). Baseline characteristics categorized by SDB severity indicate increasing age, male gender and being overweight (BMI ≥ 25) to be associated with greater SDB severity. Acoustic cardiography findings categorized by SDB severity reveal increased nocturnal non-dipping heart rate, presence of atrial fibrillation, prolonged QRS duration and QTc interval, increased percentage of fourth heart sound detected, and longer EMAT to be significantly associated with greater SDB severity. Overall, acoustic cardiography detected a very low prevalence of systolic dysfunction, age-related increases in diastolic dysfunction and a moderate prevalence of sleep disordered breathing.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-2818.jfb-17-1595
El-Zahar HebaCorresponding author
Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt.
The postpartum period in camel are considered the most critical period for camel's health and for future fertility. The objective of the present study was to compare the clinical examination results and the concentration of hemoglobin, total protein, calcium and progesterone at different instances (1st, 3rd and 9th days) postpartum. Fifteen female camels during the postpartum period (1st, 3rd and 9th days) were included in the present study. Hematological, biochemical profiles and ultrasonographic examination were performed. The clinical examination results were normal and no evidence of clinical disease. The results of the hematological and biochemical findings were within the reference range obtained previously by our research team. The concentrations of hemoglobin, total protein, calcium and progesterone were measured at the 1st, 3rd and 9th days postpartum. Hemoglobin concentration differs significantly in the 3rd day (p=0.012) compared to the 1st day postpartum. Total protein showed significant increase in the 3rd day (p=0.003) compared to the 1st day postpartum. Calcium concentration showed significant increase in the 9th day (p=0.002) compared to the 1st and the 3rd days postpartum. Progesterone concentration showed significant decrease in the 9th day (p=0.004) compared to the 1st and the 3rd days postpartum. The ultrasonographic imaging of the uterus and ovaries showed normal uterine involution and no abnormal secretions in the uterus. It is concluded that, clinical examination, hematological and biochemical profiles are very important tools for monitoring female camels during postpartum period.
May 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-16-1180
A. Chen JessicaCorresponding author
Department of Psychology, University of Washington
Current psychological treatment approaches that rely on time-intensive, face-to-face psychotherapy are not capable of meeting the demand for mental health services. Mental health interventions that promote self-regulation and self-management of symptoms will play an increasingly important role in the well-being of millions of individuals. Self-monitoring is a core assessment and intervention component of many mental health interventions and an obligatory first step in the self-regulation process. The present paper reviews prominent theories of self-regulation and describes classic studies spanning clinical, social, cognitive, and personality psychology, which identify potential mechanisms underlying self-monitoring. At the empirical level, we describe the use of self-monitoring across a range of behavioral interventions directed at mental health and physical outcomes, identify factors that influence the effects of self-monitoring, and suggest ways in which technology can be incorporated into these interventions to improve the reach of psychological interventions.
Mar 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-17-1468
Gibb JeanCorresponding author
University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center
Successful viral load programs rely on the presence of data systems and high quality of patient data. Using a cohort of 49 patients at Partners in Hope, a large, urban HIV clinic in Malawi, we performed a quality improvement assessment of a new viral load program with a focus on accuracy of data collected from patients as well as adherence to Malawi HIV Guidelines in regard to response to elevated viral loads (≥1,000 copies/mL). Data were obtained from three parallel medical record systems to investigate the proportion of patients with a repeat viral load and whether the three data systems agreed in regard to sociodemographic and clinical data. Fewer than 30% of patients had a repeat viral load within six months, as recommended in the Malawi HIV Guidelines. There were significant problems with data agreement across the three parallel databases used for care. Date of birth was consistent for 55.1% (N=27) of patients, while a different date of birth was noted in all three sources for 10.2% of patients (N=5). Viral load data from all three sources agreed for only 2.0% of patients (N=1). For 65.3% (N=32), the viral load from the laboratory did not match the recorded viral load in the electronic or paper record. Scale-up of viral load monitoring must be accompanied by the development of data systems that support workflow from sample collection to lab and back to provider. Education of providers and strategies for data collection with minimal errors can facilitate scale-up of high quality programs.
Sep 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-15-771
Jain SangeetaCorresponding author
Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, TX
Objective The tocodynamometer (TOCO) has poor sensitivity and specificity in monitoring uterine contractions, especially in obese patients. The intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC) can be used to monitor adequacy of contractions, but only after amniotomy. Transabdominal uterine electromyography (EMG) and the TOCO were compared to the gold standard IUPC for monitoring uterine contractions. Methods Forty term pregnant women in labor with ruptured membranes were consented for this study. The root mean square (RMS) plot from EMG signals was compared to IUPC and TOCO recordings for 20 to 40 minutes. A comparison between the total contraction number, frequency, and the difference in contraction peak time was made using Student-t test or ANOVA (P<0.05 was significant). Results There was no significant difference in the contraction number and frequency when comparing the RMS, TOCO, and IUPC. The paper tracings had a greater standard deviation (8.57) than the digitally saved data (3.93). The mean peak time difference between TOCO and IUPC was 0.74 seconds (P=0.78; SD 5.2). For RMS vs. IUPC peaks, the mean peak difference between was 0.13 seconds (P=0.95; SD 3.93). Conclusions Uterine electrical activity measured with transabdominal uterine EMG may be used to monitor labor in patients as an alternative to the TOCO and the IUPC.
May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-14-554
Latzer YaelCorresponding author
Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, Haifa University, Haifa, Israel.
Introduction: Night Eating Syndrome (NES) is a phenomenon combining aspects of both sleeping disorders and Eating Disorders (EDs). To the best of our knowledge, few studies to date have examined NES among patients with EDs. None examined ED patients with and without NES in clinical settings by comparing their sleep disturbances using the new NES diagnostic criteria 1. This study aimed to compare subjective and objective sleep patterns and ED-related psychopathology among NES patients with and without binge eating (BE) behavior. Method: The sample included 71 women, ages 19-62, referred for assessment to a hospital Eating Disorders Clinic. Measures included self-report questionnaires, psychiatric evaluation and actigraph recording for one week. Participants were divided into three subgroups: those with NES without BE behavior (NES-only, n = 17), with both NES and BE behavior (NES-BE, n = 22), and with BE behavior without NES (BE-only, n = 32). Results: Regarding objective sleep monitoring, only one group difference emerged: significantly longer sleep duration for the NES-only group than the other groups. Subjectively, both NES-only and NES-BE groups described significantly more sleep disturbances than the BE-only group. Moreover, only one inter-group difference emerged in ED-related psychopathology: According to new NES diagnostic criteria, the NES-only and NES-BE groups reported significantly higher levels of NES symptoms than the BE-only group. Conclusions: Groups' similarities in sleeping disturbances and psychopathology level and differences between objective and subjective sleep disturbances raise the question of whether NES should be considered part of the BE-only subgroup, calling for further research.
May 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2374-9431.jbd-13-283
Mei YongCorresponding author
Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011
Continuous-time glucose monitoring (CGM) effectively improves glucose control, as oppose to infrequent glucose measurements (i.e. using Lancet Meters), by providing frequent blood glucose concentration (BGC) to better associate this variation with changes in behavior. Currently, the most widely used CGM devices rely on a sensor that is inserted invasively under the skin. Because of the invasive nature and also the replacement cost of sensors, the primary users of current CGM devices are insulin dependent people (type 1 and some type 2 diabetics). Most non-insulin dependent diabetics use only lancet glucose measurements. The ultimate goal of this research is the development of CGM technology that overcomes these limitations (i.e. invasive sensors and their cost) in an effort to increase CGM applications among non-insulin dependent people. To meet this objective, this preliminary work has developed a methodology to mathematically infer BGC from measurements of non-invasive input variables which can be thought of as a “virtual” or “soft” sensor approach. In this work virtual sensors are developed and evaluated on 20 subjects using four BGC measurements per day and eight input variables representing meals, activity, stress, and clock time. Up to four weeks of data are collected for each subject. One evaluation consists of 3 days of training and up to 25 days of testing data. The second one consists of one week of training, one week of validation, and 2 weeks of testing data. The third one consists two weeks of training, one week of validation and one week of testing data. Model acceptability is determined on an individual basis based on the fitted correlation to CGM testing data. For 3 day, 1 week, and 2 weeks training studies, 35%, 55% and 65% of the subjects, respectively, met the Acceptability Criteria that we established based on the concept of usefulness.
May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2572-3030.jcgb-26-6307
Faisst Arne-C.Corresponding author
The development of tumor biomarkers derived from blood, or its components, has become pivotal in advancing early cancer diagnosis. Malignant transformations induce cancer-specific alterations in the transcriptome, proteome, and secretome of tumor cells. Recent studies highlighted similar alterations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in cancer patients, which appear to mirror the state of transformation in tumor cells. These findings suggest an intercellular communication–driven mechanism rather than a systemic inflammatory response and, in addition to current ctDNA-based liquid biopsy biomarkers, point to a novel, simple, and highly robust approach for the early detection of cancer. Using this phenomenon to advance PBMC-based biomarker development, it will be essential to achieve 3D in vitro tumor models that reproduce a highly physiological tumor microenvironment (TME). Likewise, more enhanced 3D ex vivo models are required to enable the replication of cell-to-cell and organ-to-organ communication. These systems will guide the self-organization of mixed microenvironments derived from different tissues and enable them to accurately reproduce the molecular connections underlying these alterations. In this study, an innovative new modular 3D co-culturing approach was used to expose PBMCs to lung tumoroids, under physiologically relevant conditions. Changes in DNA fragmentation of PBMCs in the presence of lung cancer were quantified and used as a biomarker. To validate the predictiveness of this biomarker, our results were compared with clinical data from a clinical evaluation study. Similar to the clinical trial observations, PBMCs, when exposed to lung tumoroids, showed a significantly lower level of DNA fragmentation (37%). This modular 3D co-culturing model showed a predictiveness of the clinical data of > 90%, demonstrating its power to monitoring cell-to-cell communication effects and support the development of blood-based biomarkers.
May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-3379.jwc-26-6201
R. Hodgson BruceCorresponding author
A sustainable global net-zero carbon emission is when emissions are equivalent to the uptake of carbon by global terrestrial and aquatic plants. To meet that objective, an approximate 50% reduction of fossil-fuel emissions was estimated for net-zero by 2050 using carbon dioxide concentrations and mass emission monitoring by NOAA and related references. From that data, the initial target level of reduction to obtain net-zero was selected for year 2000 to minimise effects of climate change on environmental damage. The recent finding that about half global emissions are taken up from the atmosphere and increases global terrestrial and aquatic plant growth, including agriculture plants for food production, indicates it is important to maintain the year 2000 levels in the atmosphere. It was concluded as renewable energy was found to need support, it could be supplemented by electricity production remaining after obtaining net-zero, which also supports the atmospheric carbon dioxide levels for their important global ecological contribution.
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.
Apr 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-1101.jhp-26-6100
Asif-Malik AmanCorresponding author
Honour and shame are central moral constructs within many South Asian communities, yet their psychological internalisation in diasporic contexts remains underexamined. This qualitative study explored how young British South Asian women (aged 18–25; N = 6) understand and negotiate honour in relation to gender, religion, and identity. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Six interrelated themes illustrated honour as a gendered and relational system sustained through anticipatory shame, behavioural surveillance, and sexual double standards. Participants described internalised self-monitoring, bicultural identity tension, and strategic resistance through selective compliance and religious reinterpretation. We propose that honour and shame in minority diaspora contexts function as a moral-emotional identity-regulation system characterised by anticipatory shame, relational accountability, and boundary maintenance under racialisation. This conceptualisation advances acculturation and bicultural identity frameworks by arguing that moral emotion, particularly anticipatory shame, functions as a primary mechanism of cultural internalisation, rather than merely an outcome of value endorsement. The findings further illuminate how moral surveillance shapes identity negotiation and psychological wellbeing, with implications for culturally responsive community and clinical practice.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-25-5455
Saeed Heydaranjad MohammadCorresponding author
Monitoring fish biodiversity and its changes over time and their ecological research is one of the important sources of information in their protection. They can be used to find fish biodiversity at different times, such as the capture and maintenance of whole fish, genetic samples, or the use of scales. In this regard, to check the prepared sample, 10-15 scales were prepared from the area of the lid, dorsal fin, and tail stem. Then, they were treated in 5% potassium solution and settled on a slide using a loop microscope equipped with a camera. Among the examined species, Luciobarbusbraczcephalus, Luciobarbuscapito and Capoetasaadispecies could be distinguished from other species with the highest accuracy. In the genetic studies conducted using the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene, the patterns observed in the neighbor joining genealogical tree were consistent with the differences in the genera and species studied. The results of this investigation show that the origin of species can be determined with more than 50% accuracy using genetic data.
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.
Sep 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-0207.jbr-25-5706
Nakamura YusukeCorresponding author
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative force across many sectors, with healthcare representing both one of the most promising and most challenging areas of application. This review summarizes current and future applications of AI in healthcare, focusing on its potential to improve diagnosis, therapy, chronic disease management, and overall patient care, while also alleviating physicians’ workload. Recent literature demonstrates that AI systems can reduce diagnostic errors/delays by mitigating cognitive biases, support imaging and pathology through improved accuracy and speed, and prevent prescribing errors by integrating pharmacogenomic and clinical data into decision-support systems. In chronic disease management, AI-powered wearable devices enable continuous monitoring and early detection of conditions such as atrial fibrillation, thereby reducing the risk of stroke and long-term disability, particularly in elderly people. Therapeutic applications include AI-driven drug discovery, personalized oncology, and tailored medicine that integrates multi-omics and lifestyle data. Beyond direct medical intervention, AI contributes by automating routine tasks, optimizing workflows, and facilitating greater patient–clinician interaction. Despite these benefits, significant challenges remain, including issues of data quality, privacy, security, equity, and the need for transparency and trust in “black box” systems. Looking ahead, the integration of multimodal data, digital twins, and robotics is expected to advance more comprehensive, equitable, and human-centered care. We conclude that, when applied ethically and responsibly, AI should not replace clinicians but rather serve as a powerful partner that enhances medicine by restoring empathy and humanity.
Aug 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-1937.ijbt-25-5408
Taher Hojjati MohammadCorresponding author
Background and Objectives Platelets are small, anucleate blood cells produced in the bone marrow, primarily involved in blood coagulation. Platelet concentrate is a vital blood product with extensive applications. However, its short lifespan and limited donor availability pose global challenges. This study aimed to follow the trend of platelets 5 during days of storage. Material and Methods We studied on 40 platelet bags and analyzed glucose levels, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bacterial culture, and apoptosis using flow cytometry with Annexin V-PI over three consecutive days (first, third, and fifth) post-blood collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results No significant correlations were found between age, blood group, or gender and the variables studied. No bacterial growth was detected. Glucose levels decreased significantly from day 1 (382 mg/dl) to day 5 (298 mg/dl). The average platelet apoptosis increased significantly from 3.65% on day 1 to 9.06% on day 5. Significant correlations were observed between glucose levels and apoptosis on days 3 (p<0.05) and 5 (p<0.01). No correlation found between LDH and apoptosis or necrosis, although a significant relationship between necrosis and apoptosis was noted on day 5 (p=0.003). Conclusion These findings suggest that while demographic factors do not influence the studied variables, the significant decrease in glucose levels correlates with increased platelet apoptosis over time, highlighting potential metabolic interactions that warrant further investigation. Highlights 1. The study revealed subtle variations in metabolic markers related to donor demographics, particularly gender and age. Understanding these differences can inform targeted donor selection strategies to optimize platelet quality. 2. A significant negative correlation was found between glucose levels and apoptosis rates, indicating that as glucose decreases, platelet viability declines. This relationship highlights the need for careful monitoring of glucose levels during storage to maintain platelet function. 3. Fluctuations in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were correlated with increasing rates of apoptosis, suggesting that LDH could serve as a valuable biomarker for assessing platelet quality throughout the storage period. This finding could lead to improved storage protocols and enhanced transfusion safety.
Aug 2024
Balachandra ShivaiahCorresponding author
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is widely used in pediatric patients to identify hypertension and its complications. Previous studies correlating obesity and hypertension using ABPMs showed increasing blood pressure loads with increasing BMI. However, BMI percentiles are more reliable indicators of obesity in children. Our study aimed to describe the association between BMI percentiles and systolic and diastolic blood pressure load using ABPM in children and adolescents. Retrospective analysis of ABPMs (Welch Allyn) was performed on a total of 115 patients between 7 and 18 years of age who were referred for elevated BP without a diagnosis of hypertension at our institution from Jan 2011 to Oct 2013. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on BMI percentile: <94th percentile, 94–98th percentile, 98–99th percentile, and >99th percentile. Analysis between blood pressure loads and BMI percentiles revealed greater mean systolic and diastolic loads with increasing BMI percentiles, but the P value was not statistically significant. Analysis of the systolic loads between children from different racial backgrounds revealed higher values in African American children than in Hispanic and Caucasian children, but the P value was not statistically significant.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-23-4871
Mba-Oduwusi NnennaCorresponding author
Background This study evaluates the effectiveness of quality improvement (QI) strategies in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State, with a focus on the structural components, healthcare processes, and healthcare outcomes. Employing the Donabedian model, the research aims to comprehensively assess and enhance healthcare service quality in these facilities. Methods A before-and-after study design was employed, involving a baseline assessment of 321 health facilities and endline assessment of 239 healthcare facilities, and a subsequent 10 - 12-month quality improvement intervention. Data were collected using facility assessments, client exit interviews, and interviews with key stakeholders. The analysis included a before and after analysis of the structural components, healthcare processes, and healthcare outcomes. Results The study demonstrates positive outcomes in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State following quality improvement (QI) interventions. Structural components, including, improved equipment availability, and enhanced compliance with standards, showcased significant improvements. Renovations and heightened registration compliance further underscored commitment to regulatory standards. Challenges in service availability, particularly in family planning and laboratory services, were identified. Importantly, the implementation of a QI scoring system revealed an overall positive impact, with the average score rising from 69% to 74%, signifying enhanced quality across diverse priority areas. Implications These findings highlight the success of QI interventions in transforming healthcare processes and structural components. Despite notable progress, persistent challenges in specific services call for targeted interventions. The substantial increase in patient satisfaction and overall QI scores underscores the transformative potential of sustained efforts and tailored interventions in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State. Conclusions This research comprehensively evaluates the effectiveness of quality improvement strategies implemented in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria, utilizing the Donabedian Model as a guiding framework. The findings provide valuable insights for policy recommendations, with the aim of aligning healthcare services with the Donabedian model to ensure the provision of high-quality care in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State. This study contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare quality in Lagos State. Contribution to Knowledge The research provides empirical insights into the effectiveness of quality improvement strategies in mid-level private healthcare facilities, particularly within the context of Lagos State, Nigeria. It highlights the significance of addressing structural components, optimizing healthcare processes, and monitoring healthcare outcomes to enhance the quality of care provided, aligning with the Donabedian model. These findings offer a valuable basis for policy recommendations and further research efforts aimed at improving healthcare quality in similar settings.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-23-4634
Makura AlfredCorresponding author
Introduction Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a persistent global public health challenge. In 2020, approximately 37.9 million individuals were living with HIV globally, including 1.7 million children <15 years old, with a global HIV prevalence of 0.8% among adults. A larger portion of people living with HIV are found in low-and middle-income countries, and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is home to about 68% of people living with HIV in the world. Strikingly, with increased uptakes in PMTCT, challenges in ART programs, and high viremia among children and adolescents in SSA, the success rate of ART might be quickly compromised, with possible HIVDR emergence, particularly after years of paediatric ART exposure. Therefore, monitoring ART response in children and adolescents in terms of HIVDR patterns and other socio-economic determinants of disease progression might help achieve better treatment outcomes at individual levels. At a programmatic level, this can guide further optimization of treatment options for SSA especially Zimbabwean rural where there is paucity of information on HIVDR prevalence in children and adolescents. Methods We enrolled 89 children and adolescents experiencing virologic failure from Chidamoyo Christian Hospital in Hurungwe. We managed to amplify all the 89 using nested PCR and 32.5% (29) had resistance to at least one ART drug and analysis was done using the 29 samples. Results Among the 89 participants with virologic failure,29 were resistant to at least one of their ART drugs. 39.2% of males and 23.07% of females had HIV-1 with resistance to at least one medication. Among 29 participants with HIVDR mutations, the prevalence of at least one HIVDR mutation to protease inhibitors (PIs), Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTI), and Non-Nucleotide Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTI) were 6.47% ,46.76% and 46.76% respectively. Of the 29 participants who had HIVDR 19 (65.5%) had resistance to a drug they were currently taking and they needed to be switched to a better effective ART regimen Conclusion Use of HIVDR testing in guiding and monitoring development of HIVDR at the start of ART or at 1st failure can be very important in treatment options and patient management.
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.
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.2643-2811.jmbr-22-4302
Edeowede Abhulimen AbelCorresponding author
The Gas Turbine operation was investigated with a view to evolving a system designed to provide a realistic imitation of the controls and operation of a Gas Turbine, used for training purposes. Operator Training Simulator has been widely adopted by many industries being a computer simulation which attempts to model a real-life plant so that it can be studied. A well trained and skilled operator is key in increasing power plant safety and productivity. Therefore, enabling quality training for operators is becoming more important as they need to handle increased load of information and duties whereas the lack of training is a major reason for inadequate performance. By changing variables in the simulator, predictions are made about the behaviour of the engine. It is a tool to virtually investigate the behaviour of the system while in operation. This work becomes indispensable because it is prohibitively expensive or simply too dangerous to allow trainees use the real equipment in a power plant. The Gas Turbine operation’s simulator is born from Object Oriented Programming, employing key programming languages. The simulator design focused on specific tasks in the operation of the Gas Turbine which include; startup, synchronization and monitoring of vital parameters like vibration, temperature, pressure, and angle of the Inlet Guide Vane. The statuses of various valves, pumps and motors as well as the Performance of actuators and the response of concatenated components are also being tracked. The simulator was found to effectively mimic a real plant life. With this simulator, trainee operators in Gas Turbine can spend time learning valuable lessons in a "safe" virtual environment yet living a lifelike experience. This will go a long way in minimizing operators’ error in GT power plants, thereby curtailing power outages and conserving power plant components.
Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4441
Phadke MrudulaCorresponding author
A practical review compares growth chart standards and references for pediatric monitoring after the COVID era. It advises on selection, interpretation, and equity considerations in diverse populations.
Sep 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4837.ijip-20-3944
Ababio Bannor PhilipCorresponding author
Health Facilities and Regulatory Agency, Ghana
Background Infection prevention and control system in healthcare facilities is essential in dealing with the spread of infectious diseases, especially during an outbreak period such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives The study assessed the infection prevention and control (IPC) situation in selected healthcare facilities in the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions of Ghana during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods This was a multi-facility based cross-sectional study that used a monitoring tool of the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) of Ghana to collect information on the IPC practices at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Data was gathered from 501 healthcare facilities in the Greater Accra (335) and Ashanti (151) Regions. Descriptive, Chi-square, and multiple logistic regression were performed. All statistical analyses were considered significant at an alpha level of 0.05. Results 50.6% of health facilities were assessed as having good IPC systems in the overall assessment. The majority of the health facilities were evaluated as good on governance/leadership. Similarly, the majority (54.3 %)of the facilities had effective infectious waste management. The assessment levels of governance/leadership, management, quality assurance system, human resource, IPC equipment, and water management were all significantly associated with the adherence to good IPC systems. Conclusion IPC systems in most facilities were assessed as good, but some areas require critical attention to help prevent the spread of infections in healthcare facilities in Ghana. Support systems such as revised policy on IPC, governance/leadership, and infectious waste management infrastructure are needed to strengthen facilities with weak or poor IPC systems.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-2165.jfsh-20-3579
Bedada ShumiCorresponding author
Disease Control and Prevention Department, Bale Zone Health Office, Robe, Ethiopia.
Introduction Foodborne diseases are a major public health problem which predominantly affects infants and young children. Appropriate complementary food hygiene practice is very important to reduce the prevalence of foodborne illnesses. However, the information regarding this practice is not available and assessed before. Thus, the study was aimed to assess complementary food hygiene practices among mothers of children aged 6-23 months. Methods A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Robe town on a samples of 517 mother-child pairs, which were selected by using systematic sampling technique. Data was collected using pre-tested and structured questionnaire, and each variable was described in the frequency and percentage. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with complementary food hygiene practice. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were used to assess levels of significance. Result The result indicated that 55% of participated mothers scored above the mean score of food hygiene practices. Mothers of children aged 12-23 months had higher odds to practice good food hygiene measures than those of aged 6-11 months (AOR, 1.82 95% CI (1.21, 2.73)). Mothers whose children attended growth monitoring session practice good food hygiene than their counterpart (AOR, 2.74 95% CI (1.49, 5.06)). Mothers having media exposure, and having knowledge on critical times of hand washing had relatively good food hygiene measures (AOR, 0.73 95 CI (1.14, 2.62)). Among food hygiene measures; handwashing with water and soap were low before eating food (17%), before feeding children (21%) and before preparing food (32%) when compared with after visiting the toilet (81%) and touching dirt (68%). Conclusion and Recommendation The study identified that food hygiene practices in the current study were mainly associated with child age, growth monitoring follow-up, maternal awareness about critical times of hand washing, and media exposure. So, improving knowledge of mothers on critical times of handwashing, strengthening growth monitoring follow-up and media promotion are important measures to improve food hygiene practices among mothers of infants and young children.
Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3758
Hewageegana NS RajapaksaCorresponding author
National Consultant Health System Enhancement Project Sri Lanka
“Health Promoting Village” concept named as “Happy Villages” started in 2007 in Badulla District in Uva Province was a community mobilization process through which village communities have been empowered to look after their community health. The areas included were Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) prevention , Alcohol and drug abuse. Gender Based Violence. The programmed used many interactive tools as “Mood Chart” or “Happiness Calendar” which was giving a visualizing effect. Continuous assessments done from 2009 to 2013 showed that the Health promotion strategies used in the Happy Village concept in the Uva Province can effectively and efficiently be utilized for improvement of nutrition and achievement of milestones in children. From 2017 a National program is launched named “Happy Villages”. During the Covid 19 outbreak health promotion approaches were initiated to change in lay communities successfully. Villagers had actively engaged, collectively acted in responsible manner, and identified measures to prevent COVID-19 transmission in their households, neighbourhood and community. The use of village empowerment had become a fruitful source to face the Covid pandemic in Sri Lanka. Almost 300 “Happy Villages” around the country have made facing the Covid epidemic their chief task. Many innovative ideas and practices in facing Covid 19 pandemic at village level including a visualizing calendar to identify the risk behaviours of the family members as well as the Happiness calendar to identify the family stress levels are among them. Health promotion concept is getting rooted around the country with active participation of the villages with a multisectoral support. Continuous monitoring and evaluation and sharing best practices will show the world the effectiveness of Health Promotion and the ability of empowered people in facing pandemic situations
May 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-4602.jes-21-3837
O. Henderson JeffreyCorresponding author
Department of Science and Mathematics, Judson University, Elgin, IL 60123, USA
The coronavirus infectious disease (20)19 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by a newly identified virus (2019) SARS-CoV-2, a beta coronavirus that shares similarities with other human-infecting coronaviruses. Genomic analysis suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is closely related to SARS-CoV, a bat-related coronavirus, RaTG13, and to other pangolin-associated coronaviruses. The spike protein of coronaviruses are glycoproteins and are responsible for attaching the virus to the host cell and entering. Amino acid changes within the spike protein-encoding gene from SARS-CoV to SARS-CoV-2 enable SARS-CoV-2 to form a stable spike protein, to form a stable complex between the S protein and the receptor ACE2, to increase binding points between the S protein and ACE2, and to survive at higher temperatures. SARS-CoV-2 is zoonotic, with genomic analysis implicating bats as the original host and pangolins as the most likely intermediate host to infect humans. As SARS-CoV-2 infects humans, viral point mutations will continually occur and cause the emergence of new competitive SARS-CoV-2 strains. Two major strains include D614G and N501Y and have increased infectivity and transmission, further complicating the scope of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Vigilant monitoring of viral development and evolution is necessary for developing proper treatment methods and vaccine targets.
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.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3383
Zhao BinCorresponding author
School of Science, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
With the spread of the new coronavirus around the world, governments of various countries have begun to use the mathematical modeling method to construct some virus transmission models assessing the risks of spatial spread of the new coronavirus COVID-19, while carrying out epidemic prevention work, and then calculate the inflection point for better prevention and control of epidemic transmission. This work analyzes the spread of the new coronavirus in China, Italy, Germany, Spain, and France, and explores the quantitative relationship between the growth rate of the number of new coronavirus infections and time. In investigating the dynamics of a disease such as COVID-19, its mathematical representation can be constructed at many levels of details, guided by the questions the model tries to help answer. Mathematical sophistication may have to yield to a more pragmatic approach closer to the ability to make predictions that inform public health policies. Background In December 2019 , the first Chinese patients with pneumonia of unknown cause is China admitted to hospital in Wuhan, Hubei Jinyintan , since then, COVID-19 in the rapid expansion of China Wuhan, Hubei, in a few months time, COVID-19 is Soon it spread to a total of 34 provincial-level administrative regions in China and neighboring countries, and Hubei Province immediately became the hardest hit by the new coronavirus. In an emergency situation, we strive to establish an accurate infectious disease retardation growth model to predict the development and propagation of COVID-19, and on this basis, make some short-term effective predictions. The construction of this model has Relevant departments are helpful for the prevention and monitoring of the new coronavirus, and also strive for more time for the clinical trials of Chinese researchers and the research on vaccines against the virus to eliminate the new corona virus as soon as possible. Methods According to the original data change law, Establish a Logistic growth model, we collect and compare and integrate the spread of COVID-19 in China, Italy, France, Spain and Germany, record the virus transmission trend among people in each country and the protest measures of relevant government departments. Findings Based on the analysis results of the Logistic model model, the Logistic model has a good fitting effect on the actual cumulative number of confirmed cases, which can bring a better effect to the prediction of the epidemic situation and the prevention and control of the epidemic situation. Interpretation In the early stage of the epidemic, due to inadequate anti-epidemic measures in various countries, the epidemic situation in various countries spread rapidly. However, with the gradual understanding of COVI D -19, the epidemic situation began to be gradually controlled, thereby retarding growth
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.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3481
Gupta ShilpiCorresponding author
Division of Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry Lab, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), I-7, Sector-39, Noida, India.
The indirect misuse of animals usually correlated to catastrophic consequences like the one we are facing now, novel coronavirus disease-19. However, the source of infection is not fully confirmed yet. But the finger of blame points to bats and pangolins. Hence, understanding and raising awareness about wild animals and the consequences of their misuse are a must to avoid future pandemics. Herein, we threw light on the most animals involved in the current epidemic as well as possible animals in the shadow. Random serological investigations of samples from animals of different species (including asymptomatic animals) are required to understand the prevalence and severity of the infection, the extent of the transmission, and the monitoring of the situation over time. Moreover, alleviating fear associated with the possibility of human infection from their pets, we highlight that there are no reports that confirm this hypothesis; however, the opposite has been reported. Similarly, there is no proof that pigs can become infected amplify or spread novel coronavirus.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-20-3425
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), Maharashtra, India.
The study was aimed to investigate the potential benefits of the Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment (the Trivedi Effect®) per se and Biofield Energy Healing treated novel test formulation in male Sprague Dawley rats for their antiaging activity by monitoring aging biomarkers such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), silent information regulator-1 (SIRT-1), and klotho protein. The test formulation was distributed into two parts. First part did not provide any Biofield Energy Treatment was denoted as the untreated sample, however the second part was received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and defined as the Biofield Energy Treated sample. In this experiment, nine groups (n=10) were assigned, in which four were preventive maintenance groups. Among them, three groups of animals were also received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment per se (at day -15). BDNF was significantly increased by 25.83%, 19.35%, and 14.67% in the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (G5), Biofield Energy Treatment per se at day -15 (G6), and Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals plus Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G8), respectively as compared to the disease control (G2) group. Moreover, expression of SIRT-1 protein was increased by 14.63% in the G5 group than the untreated test formulation (G4) group. Additionally, SIRT-1 activity was increased by 39.7%, 32.5%, 15.9%, and 136% in the G6, Biofield Energy Treated test formulation at day -15 (G7), G8, and Biofield Treatment per se (day -15) to animals plus untreated test formulation (G9) groups, respectively than the G4 group, while it was increased by 57.3% in the G9 group as compared to the G2 group. Besides, Klotho protein in kidney homogenate was significantly increased by 16.67% in the G5 group as compared to the G2 group. Altogether, the results showed a significant improvement of longevity mediators and antiaging biomarkers in the preventive maintenance groups. Therefore, results envisaged the significant slowdown of aging-related disorders and other complications in the preventive Biofield Energy Treatment group per se and/or Biofield Energy Treated Test formulation groups (viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9) comparatively with the disease control group and could be utilized against various aging-related disorders like Alzheimer's disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, cataracts, type 2 diabetes, cancer, etc. along with it could be used to extend the life-span, stress and immune-related disorders.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3246
H. M. Adam AbubakerCorresponding author
Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Khartoum North, Sudan
The fruit flies of familyTephritidae are considered as serious pests of Mango in Sudan. They cause substantial damage to Mango in all Mango production areas. The application of various pesticides appeared to be ineffective. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate the efficacy of Spinosad as new promising control measure to the fruit flies. This study was carried out at Shendi area, River Nile State during the period from April 2012 to August 2014, where Pheromone and food bait traps were used for detection and monitoring the fruit flies species in the study area. Spinosad (0.24g\L) was applied as a partial spraying pesticide. Results indicated that; the application of Spinosad highly decreased the fruit flies numbers. The average number of fruit flies collected in April was (947.22 and 1001.67) for the treated and untreated orchards respectively. The numbers of fruit flies in the treated orchards had decreased gradually during May, June, July and August, 904.7, 760.22, 609.6 and 452.7, respectively, but in untreated orchards for the same months had increased to 1003.67, 1103.67, 1336.67and 1468.67 respectively. However, the infestation level in mango fruits in the treated orchards was found to be 2% compared with 64% for untreated one.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-20-3306
Abul-Fadl AzzaCorresponding author
Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Introduction The Corona virus (CoVID-19) pandemic has hit the most developed countries and has thence spread to inflict other countries around the world. It is the first pandemic that appears in countries not linked to poverty and poor hygiene. Aim To study the relationship between human development and the pattern of the pandemic caused by the CoVID-19 and to identify development indicators that can be useful in monitoring the pandemic. Methods Data collected included confirmed cases of CoVID-19 by country, number of cases that recovered and cases that died and population density per million in this particular country. The data for this information was obtained from the online data on the daily reports on CoVID-19 from the different countries. Data for the Human Development index (HDI) and the ranking for each country were obtained from the most recent United Nations Development of Populations (UNDP) report for 2019. We analyzed data for 166 countries for which the HDI was available for the date of cases reported online on 27th March, 2020 at midnight. Findings There were significant differences by ANOVA for the confirmed cases of CoVID19 cases and total cases per one million population between the countries in the 4 tier group of Human Development. HDI was significantly correlated with confirmed cases, case density and cases that died from CoVID-19 (P<0.01) for all countries but the significance decreased by tier group. Country ranking was inversely correlated with confirmed cases of CoVID-19 (r-0.25 at P=0.001), CoVID-19 cases per million (r-0.4 at P=0.000) and cases that died from CoVID-19 (r-0.2 at P=0.03). Recovery was not inked to HDI or country ranking. The upper HDI tier groups (very high, high and medium) showed significant correlations with total cases per one million population P<0.05, but no correlation was found with confirmed cases or cases that died or recovered from CoVID-19 P>0.05. Conclusions Total cases of CoVID-19 per one million population seems to be a better indicator of the pandemic. The pattern of spread is closely linked to industry.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5257.ijgp-20-3164
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
There is a gap between theoretical knowledge about strategies and the techniques or methods to apply in the practice of the consultation to improve compliance. Within the framework of these strategies, a number of techniques to be used in certain situations can be cited: 1) Assessing readiness to change, importance and confidence; 2) Instruments for decision support; 3) Technique of the "pros and cons"; 4) Auto-monitoring techniques; 5) Technique of "information exchange"; 6) Feedback technique; 7) Brainstorming; 8) The “typical day”; and 9) Practical reminder systems for taking medication. A certain technique is not a universal procedure, but it is usually refined by trial and error, based on past experiences, and their choice and design are the responsibility of the general practitioner.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-20-3236
Sanikidze TamarCorresponding author
Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Objective Search of pathogenetic mechanisms and risk factors of atherosclerosis in the employees of the cleaning service in Tbilisi. Materials and Methods As a result of a preliminary survey and examination of 200 employes of Tbilisi cleaning service aged 25-45 years (2014-2016), 22 patients with angina, hypercholesterolemia, intimae-media thickness > 0.65 mm, were selected into I group, and 23 individuals without these disorders into II group. In the blood plasma of the selected patients the intensity of oxidative metabolism parameters, TAA and MDA were determined. The variance and correlation analysis (АNOVA) was used for conducting the comparative analysis of the levels of studied parameters. Results In the combined group (I+II) there are several reliable correlations between the Age -TCol, Age-MDA, BMI-Tg, BMI-MDA, LDLChol-HDLChol, LDLChol–TChol, HDLChol-TChol, LDLChol-MDA, LDLChol-TAA. no correlation between these parameters in individual groups (I and II) was found. That indicates that we have an imaginary correlation related to the large intergroup difference between the average values of the group indicators, that is the values of various indicators change during the development of the pathological process, but there is no causal relationship between these alterations. The reliable TAA-MDA correlation in the combined group (I+II) is related to the high anticorrelation between these parameters and the significantly higher average value of TAA in the low-risk group (II) in comparison to the high-risk group (I). Conclusion The results analysis indicates both the diagnostic value of redox status indicators and their leading role in the atherogenesis processes. In populations with a high risk of atherosclerosis, monitoring of serum TAA is recommended.
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.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-3116
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Italy
Foliar pH is a specific multifaceted parameter that is sensitive to a deficit in soil water and to temperature variations. It also represents a tool that can be used to rapidly phenotype the symbiosis induced in several crops by bio-fertilizers containing Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi. Yearly decreases in foliar pH, which dropped from 3.73 in 2015 to 3.15 in 2017 and then stabilized at around 3.13, have been observed in an experimental vineyard near Torino (Italy) in six grapevine cultivars. In this paper, these curious, original results have been paired with the average sunspots of the 24th sun cycle, proximal to its endpoint. The paired values were highly correlated (r 0.95 P< 0.01), with close parabolic patterns. A lowering in foliar pH has been correlated with a modification of the leaf composition, as characterized by the higher hydration and reinforced wall. An increase in the circulating acidity of the plants has been hypothesized to interfere in a diminution in the general predisposition to block parasite attacks. From this perspective, the retrieval of several historic outbreaks and the long-term systematic monitoring of mud and Erwinia amylovora frequencies have suggested that the hypothesis that links the solar minima with dysfunctions of the plant-pest relationships cannot always be rejected. Cosmic influences pertaining to UV variations are poorly understood in plant physiopathology. Foliar pH appears to be a rapid and simple tool to unveil high-level mechanisms. It is this simple parameter that physiologists and geneticists, but also agronomists, are asked to consider.
Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4488.jna-19-3008
Aydin ZekiCorresponding author
Darica Farabi Training and Research Hospital, Department of Nephrology, Kocaeli, Turkey
Introduction Hypertension is a major cardiovascular risk factor. There is a strong relationship between blood pressure (BP) elevation and stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure and mortality due to kidney disease. It is known that the loss of the dipping pattern in hypertension is associated with increased target organ damage. In our study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of dipper hypertension (DHT) and nondipper hypertension (NDHT) and related factors in patients with stage 1 and 2 chronic kidney disease (CKD). Materials and Methods A total of 158 patients diagnosed with stage 1 or stage 2 CKD were included in the study. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, physical examination findings and laboratory results of the patients were recorded. Ambulatory BP monitoring was performed in all patients. Results Of the 158 patients (female n: 98), 78 (49%) were in the stage 1 CKD group and 80 (51%) were in the stage 2 CKD group. No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of DHT or NDHT between hypertensive patients in the stage 1 and 2 CKD groups. The rate of NDHT was 59.5% (94/158 patients). Female patients had more DHT in the general population and in the stage 1 group than male patients (p=0.05, p=0.01, respectively). Conclusion No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of DHT or NDHT between hypertensive patients in the stage 1 and 2 CKD groups. The prevalence of DHT in female patients was significantly higher in both groups than in men in both groups, but especially in the stage 1 CKD group.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-19-2772
Crespi FrancescoCorresponding author
Biology, CSK, Verona, Italy
Nociceptin/orphanin-FQ (NOCI) together with its receptor NOP are widely expressed in cortical and subcortical motor areas and it is known that NOCI acts as an anxiolytic attenuating the behavioral inhibition of animals acutely exposed to stressful/anxiogenic conditions. Influence of NOCI upon the dopaminergic system has been observed in the ventral tegmental area and in the nucleus accumbens as well as an inhibitory action of NOCI is described upon serotoninergic mechanisms at cells and terminal levels. In particular, it is known that serotoninergic fibers from the raphe system project to the substancia nigra (SN) and that this modulation is behaviourally relevant. In the present work, the effect of exogenous NOCI injected into the SN upon DA and 5-HT levels have been analyzed by means of differential pulse voltammetry and nafion-carbon fiber microelectrodes. Electrophysiological monitoring of multicell activity was concomitantly performed with the same microsensor. It appeared that both levels of these biogenic amines were specularly altered, with possibly a driving influence of the DA activity upon the serotoninergic function(s).
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-0282.imsj-19-2672
Fadel Madkour FedekarCorresponding author
Marine Science Department, Faculty of Science, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
Recently, annual swarm of invasive Erythrean schyphozoan RhopilemanomadicaGalil, 1990 appeared along Egyptian Mediterranean coasts causing beach closures and fishing problems. The present study conducted survey and field monitoring on R. nomadica during blooming season in the Egyptian Mediterranean coast throughout three consecutive years (2015-2017). Three main features of R. nomadica bloom were addressed; viz starting date, duration and maximum density of aggregation. In 2015, the bloom started on 28 July, and over the following two years the bloom starting date shifted earlier being 19 July in 2016 and 15 June in 2017. The duration of the bloom varied yearly giving the longest duration in 2017 when the bloom continued in high density for a month. The highest density of R. nomadica was about 896 medusae/1000 m3 in 2017. The medusae diameter ranged between 21 to 112 cm. The average bell diameter for each year displayed gradual increasing values over the years. The consistent annual R. nomadica blooming was attributed to the high level of eutrophication and ecosystem degradation occurred along the Mediterranean coast since last decades. The shifting in the annual bloom starting date and duration may reflect the adaptation of R. nomadica to the climate change effect on the Mediterranean Sea temperature.
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-18-2544
Habibzadeh NasimCorresponding author
PhD in Sport Science, Department of Sport Science, Teesside University, UK
A commentary addresses the benefits and risks of vigorous exercise over time from a physiological perspective, discussing adaptation, monitoring, and individualized recommendations.
Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-1937.ijbt-18-2410
PrasanthB KrishnaCorresponding author
Epidemiologist & Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Medical Sciences.
Introduction: Blood is a valuable resource and blood transfusion is life saving in many situations. However blood transfusions carry the risk of transfusion transmitted infections, allergic reactions, hemolytic reactions and introduction of foreign antigens. So monitoring of blood transfusion practice is necessary for the rationale use of blood components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the appropriateness of blood ordering practice for Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBC) as per National Blood Transfusion Guidelines. Materials & Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Tamilnadu. A total of 4236 blood request forms were analyzed over a period of 12 months. Number of units requested were noted and the appropriateness of the requested transfusion was assessed according to the National guidelines on transfusion 3. Request forms of neonates and children up to 18 years of age (in whom Transfusion guidelines are different) were excluded from the study. Cross match to Transfusion ratio (CT ratio) was also calculated. Results: A total of 4236 blood request forms were analyzed out of which 76.6 % (n=3246) were for PRBC, and hemoglobin values were mentioned in 68.8% (n=2235) and not mentioned in 31.2% (n=1011) of request forms. Anemia, surgery and bleeding were the most common indications for which transfusions were requested. There were 3246 PRBC requests out of which 53.5% (n=1736) requests were considered appropriate, 38.6% (n=1254) were considered inappropriate and 7.9% (n=256) requests could not be assessed due to inadequate details on Hemoglobin and clinical relevance. CT ratio was 1.5. Conclusion: In this study, it was noted that significant percentage (38.6%) of inappropriate PRBC transfusions were given and 7.9% forms could not be assessed due to inadequate investigation details. Regular audits and CMEs should be conducted in this hospital to rationalize the use of blood components.
Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-18-2336
C.N Angaye TariwariCorresponding author
Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
Environmental impact of anthropogenic activities from industrial sources, have become a threat to biodiversity. Water samples were collected from rivers around the flow station, and analysed from some physicochemical parameters and hydrocarbon contents. Result of the physicochemistry was reported for: pH (6.58± 0.04 - 6.76±0.01), conductivity (168.30±13.98 - 194.57±3.78 µS/cm), conductivity 8.29±0.04 - 10.66±0.02 NTU, salinity (0.07±0.00 - 0.09± 0.00 mg/l), and Total Solids (83.96±1.49 - 103.66±0.60mg/l). Other elemental analysis includes: sulphates (2.43±0.01 - 4.28 ±0.02 mg/l), nitrates (0.19±0.01 - 0.28±0.01 mg/l), carbonates (1.14±0.07 - 2.06±0.07 mg/l), calcium (8.45±0.10 - 11.70±0.25 mg/l), magnesium (1.14±0.07 - 2.56±0.03 mg/l), and sodium (4.37±0.15 - 5.62±0.03 mg/l). The values of THC and TPH were 0.92±0.08 - 1.51±0.03, and 0.37±0.13 - 0.76±0.07 mg/l respectively. Generally, the result indicated mild level of contamination in terms of Hydrocarbon contents. However, diagnostic data emerging for physicochemistry and some elemental property indicates the water is unfit for consumption. Notwithstanding, the order on contamination were reported as; downstream > midstream > upstream. Therefore this study concludes that there should be frequent monitoring of the recipient water bodies associated with the flow station in order to check anthropogenic activities, and conserve biodiversity.
Sep 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-5526.jmid-18-2328
Fröhlich EckhartCorresponding author
Department of Internal Medicine 1, University of Tübingen, Otfried-Müller-Straße 10, D 72076 Tübingen
Background: Monitoring ultrasonic probe quality remains an important problem which impacts diagnostic accuracy. Here we present a quantitative method to assess probe quality primarily based on measuring probe maximum contrast (dB) and dynamic range. Method: Contrast relevant parameters of 26 transducer models manufactured by five manufacturers were measured with a novel Random Void Phantom (RVP) approach. 3D-data were acquired and analysed to determine image quality. Results: Acoustic contrast values ranging from 15dB to 36dB were observed. Conclusion: By examining artefact producing side lobes, the novel RVP approach presented here permits a quantitative assessment of ultrasound probe quality.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-18-2202
AA OkechukwuCorresponding author
Department of Pediatrics, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada.
Background: Ideally, disclosure of HIV status to infected children and adolescents should involve both health care workers and parents/caregivers. Most studies on disclosure in children have focus mainly on parents/caregivers with little information on health care workers. We conduct this study to evaluate the practice, perception of the healthcare workers in our health facility on disclosure to infected children and adolescents. It is envisaged that such information will help in the design of better strategies on disclosure in our environment. Methods: A cross sectional hospital based study was conducted among health care workers at the special treatment clinic, and heart to heart unit of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada from January to March 2017 for the above objective. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on disclosure among the healthcare workers, which include among others: their bio-data, knowledge, perception, and practice on disclosure in the two service areas of the hospital. Results: Of the 80 health care workers interviewed, 60(75.0%) were females, 11(13.8%) were doctors, 9(11.3%) nurses, 17(21.3%) monitoring/evaluation/record clerks, and 16(20.0%) were either voluntary counseling and testing counselors or adherence counselors. Their mean age and duration in service in the two areas were 39.70±7.10 and 7.93±4.99 years respectively. Over half 48(60.0%) of the health care workers were unaware of the hospital having guideline on disclosure, 64(80.0%) have not been trained, and 68(85.0%) does not know any key information on disclosure. While all 80(100%) felt that disclosure was a good practice for better adherence, only 16(20.0%) had actually disclosed, with 6(37.5%) not seeking any formal permission from parent/caregivers before disclosing. Ages 8-16 years was recommended by 60(75%) as the appropriate age to disclose, however 28(35.0%) recommended age 14-16 years. Over half of the respondents 58(72.5%) admitted that disclosure should be a shared responsibility between themselves and the caregivers, most however perceive their role as only preparing the parents/caregivers for disclosure, and providing ongoing counseling to both the parents/caregivers and the children and adolescents. Lack of training on disclosure, and none availability of guideline in the health institution were major setback on the ability of the healthcare providers to fully participate in disclosure process. Conclusion: While healthcare providers support the idea of disclosing at mid and late adolescent, their perceived role was that of support and provision of ongoing counseling. Lack of training and none availability of disclosure guideline affects their perceived role. There is need to train and retrain healthcare workers on disclosure guideline, and making such guideline available in the health facilities.
Dec 2017
Yi SiyanCorresponding author
Public Health Program, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, the United States
This paper aims to examine the challenges and implications of the Village and Commune Safety Policy (VCSP) on harm-reduction programs and describe lessons learned from a harm-reduction program within the context of the VCSP in Cambodia. Data were collected from a monitoring and evaluation database and reports of a drop-in center that provides a wide range of harm-reduction services. In addition, qualitative data were collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions with 38 participants including people who use drugs (PWUD) and people who inject drugs (PWID). Desk reviews and consultative meetings with key stakeholders were also conducted. In total, 496 PWUD were registered into the program between 2010 and 2012, of which 22.4% were PWID, and 15.0% were women. The mean age of participants was 26 years old. HIV prevalence among PWUD was 1.0% compared to 16.2% among PWID. Remarkable achievements were observed such as high uptake of services by PWUD and PWID with active referrals to methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) and voluntary HIV confidential counseling and testing (VCCT). However, distribution of clean needles and syringes in communities was limited. Also, the newly initiated needle and syringe program (NSP) based in pharmacies failed to reach PWUD and PWID. Appropriate coordination and collaboration with law enforcement and authorities were observed given the complexity of the VCSP. However, the implementation of the VCSP poses challenges including NSP and accessibility to harm reduction services. For future successes of harm-reduction programs, it is important to maintain close coordination and collaboration between program implementers and local authorities with mutual understanding and flexibility.
Nov 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-17-1679
Tesfahuneygn GebrehiwetCorresponding author
Tigray health research institute, Mekelle
Background: Point-of-care diagnostic tests (POCTs) are increasingly used in both developing and developed countries. They allow same day testing and treatment at remote locations where no laboratory support is available. Quality control measures, which are routinely used in laboratories, have not been widely implemented for POCTs. This aimed to assess the integrity of the entire laboratory testing process, and aims to educate and improve performance in quality of HIV rapid testing. Methods: A health facility based cross section study was conducted from April to June 2016.Randomly selected health facilities were participated in the external quality assessment. Onsite evaluation and panel test were used to collect data using structured checklists and formats. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Between April to June 2016, a total of 60 health facilities (145 testing points) from governmental health facilities (hospitals and health centers) were participated in the study. Among the participated testing points 41% have no designated area, 40% have no clean water for hand washing and 51% have no national test algorithm. The average performance of testing points was varies from 89.6% to 99.1% (Laboratory 99.1%, ANC 90.4%, TB clinic 91.4% and VCT 89.6%). In a multivariable logistic regression model, didn’t follow national testing algorithm to report client test results have statistical significance. Conclusions: High quality test results underpin accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for patients. But in the study area the score of proficiency testing result and coverage of training is slightly low comparing to other findings. Therefore following national testing algorithm to report client test results, training and monitoring are critical points to improve the proficiency testing score of testing points.
Nov 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1764
Miguel Carreira L.Corresponding author
Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA), Rua D.ª Francisca da Azambuja Nº9 -9A- Barreiro, Portugal
Leishmaniasis treatment monitoring is an important problem, since patient’s frequently present clinical signs improvements with positive indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) titers of anti-Leishmania antibodies, thus making difficult the clinician understand the therapy efficacy. The study aimed 1) to identify over a short period of 30 days, which of the main changes on the serum proteinogram fractions in patients treated with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol, can be pointed as indicator to classify patients as slower or faster responsive to treatment. A sample of 56 dogs (n=56) with leishmaniasis diagnosis was followed-up for clinical condition, proteinograms and titers of anti-Leishmania antibodies during the treatment period considering three different time points: M0 (diagnosis moment), M1 (15 days after therapy start), and M2 (30 days after therapy start). Two groups of patients were considered according to their clinical condition evolution rate: faster recovery group (FRG) and slower recovery group (SRG). Statistical significant results were considered for p-value <0.05. Statistically significant differences in proteinogram variations between FRG and SRG were registered for TPs (p= 0.03), and for the fractions β (p=0.04), γ (p=0.04), amongst M0 and M2.The PT, β and γ-globulin fractions of proteinogram, in association with patient clinical assessment evolution should be considered as an indicator and a simple way to appoint the efficacy response of the patients to the therapy.
Oct 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-17-1758
U MazumderCorresponding author
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka , Bangladesh,
Background: The nature of placenta previa can be unpredictable and harsh on the mother and baby. These complications are often unpredictable, unpreventable and often leave the labour ward team in a dilemma. This Obstetricians' nightmare is fortunately a rare complication. The frequency of placenta previa at the time of delivery average 1/200 births i.e. 0.5%. Placenta previa is still an important cause of maternal and fetal death in our country. The risk factors are Advanced Maternal age, Multi parity, Previous Cesarean Section, Multiple gestation, Previous Abortions, Previous intrauterine surgery, placenta previa in previous pregnancy, Smoking. Objective: Identification of risk factors, the feto-maternal outcome and complications of patients having placenta previa with previous caesarean section. Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted from July 2012 to June 2015 in Obstetrics and Gynaecology department, Dhaka Medical College hospital. 100 patients of placenta previa were included in this study. Non-probability purposive sampling method was used for selection of patients. Results: In this study, Socio-demographic profiles, Identification of risk factors, the feto-maternal outcome and complications of patients having placenta previa were assessed. The frequency of placenta previa associated with previous cesarean section was 61%. In demographic profiles of the patients in this study - with a history of previous caesarean section, 78.7% patients were in the age group 26-35. Multiparity was predominant on scarred uterus group (63.9%). Here, demonstrated that > 2 previous history of caesarean section was associated with 80.3% of placenta previa. Regarding maternal outcome, complications like massive haemorrhage, ureteral injury, bladder injury, wound infection, DIC, maternal and perinatal mortality were more in the scarred patients than in the unscarred patients. In our study, 29.5% of morbid adhesion of placenta observed in scarred uterus. Conclusions: There is significant association of placenta previa with previous cesarean delivery. So, Careful monitoring of high risk pregnancies is of utmost importance. Avoidance of unnecessary caesarean sections and early week’s pregnancy terminations can minimize the Obstetricians' nightmare.
Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-17-1473
R RaacheCorresponding author
Laboratoire des cytokines et NO Synthases (FSB-USTHB), Université des Sciences et de la Technologie Houari Boumediene (USTHB), Alger, Algérie
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relation of Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels with stage of the disease and it role in monitoring tumor response to therapy in lymphoma patients. Methods. LDH levels were evaluated on 65 diagnosed Algerian children and compared to healthy control. Results: Our results revealed that LDH levels were significantly higher in untreated children with both hodgkin’s and non hodgkin’s lymphomas compared to control. Moreover, it was observed that the higher is the stage of disease, the more serum LDH level will be. However, there was a significant fall in serum LDH activity by completion of the chemotherapeutic courses. Conclusion: LDH plays an important role in tumor initiation and maintenance. The elevated serum LDH may reflect, release of the enzyme from malignant cells and suggest that they may reflect tumor burden and therefore correlate with disease progression.
Apr 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-17-1424
Baumann ChristophCorresponding author
University of Wuerzburg, Medical Faculty, Josef-Schneider-Straße 2, Würzburg, Germany
Objective: To assess the effect of different treatment approaches on the course of anorexia nervosa (AN) over time. Methods: The subjects were 27 hospitalized AN patients. In our retrospective analysis we compared weight gain in two groups. While one group was treated with a standard oral refeeding protocol (historical control) through January 2013 (N=16), the second group (highly standardized refeeding protocol) received a high energy liquid nutrition and nutritional supplements including omega-3 fatty acids (N=11). Results: On admission, the two groups were comparable in terms of height, weight, age and heart rate. At the end of our monitoring time frame of 25 days, weight gain was 121.4% higher in the highly standardized refeeding protocol group than in the historical control group (66.5 ±52.4 vs 147.3 ±55.7 grams/day; t-Test p=0.004; CI95%: 29.3-132.2). A carbohydrate rich diet clearly improved weight gain if high energy liquid nutrition was replaced by the diet according the patient’s own wishes. About 45% of our patients stated they were vegetarians at admission. However, we could not identify a vegetarian diet as a statistically significant negative prognostic factor for weight gain. Conclusion: The highly standardized refeeding protocol seems to be helpful in malnourished AN patients to improve weight gain without enhancing the risk of a refeeding syndrome. However, further studies with greater number of patients are needed to confirm the effectiveness of our standardized treatment protocol.
Nov 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-16-1311
M DarouichiCorresponding author
Department of radiology
Adenosquamous carcinoma of the stomach (ASCS) is extremely rare with less than one hundred cases published in the world literature. It is defined by combined adenocarcima and squamous cells carcinoma of the stomach. ASCS is clinically aggressive and has a poor prognosis, even when discovered at an early stage. This intriguing entity is characterized by non specific symptoms or radiological signs. Integrate 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography 18F FDG.PET/CT is useful morphologic and functional modalities for evaluating primary tumor, local extend and invasion beyond gastric wall or distant metastatic and eventually for management. Diagnosis of ASCS requires immunohistochemical confirmation. We report a 77-year-old man who was admitted to hospital because of epigastric pain, vomiting and melena since more than a month. Gastroscopy with biopsies had initially suggested gastric squamous cell carcinoma .Thoracic and abdominal computed tomography scan (CT) showed a huge mass in the gastric body, largely necrotic, infiltrating the adjacent structures without metastases. Partial gastrectomy with resection of the proximal 2/3 of the stomach, the spleen, the body and tail of pancreas and the left transverse colon was performed. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated ASCS with mixed adenocarcinomatous and squamous cells carcinoma with invasion of gastric lymph nodes. Unfortunately, two months after surgery, a CT of the abdomen revealed diffuse metastasis and the patient died three months later. In light of this case, we discuss the pathogenesis, staging and monitoring of this rare entity by combined 18F-FDG PET/CT with review of the literature.
Oct 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-16-1212
Babaee SaeedCorresponding author
Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Malek Ashtar University of Technology, Lavizan Avenue, Tehran, P.O. Box 16765/3454, Iran
Application of nickel in different industries has been developed and so contamination of natural water is a great concern due to its potentially toxic effects on living beings. Therefore, fast monitoring of Ni2+ in aqueous samples is important. In this work, we fabricated a sensitive optical sensor for determination of nickel in mineral water samples and hydrogen peroxide solutions. The optode was prepared by incorporation of 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol and sodium tetraphenylborate in a plasticized poly (vinyl chloride) membranes containing dioctyladipate as a plasticizer. The influence of several parameters such as pH, base matrix, solvent mediator and ligand concentration were optimized. Comparison the obtained results with previously reported sensors revealed that the proposed method, in addition to fast and simplicity, provided good linear range (1.70–85.20 µmol L-1) and low detection limit (0.17 µmol L-1). The precision (relative standard deviation) was better than 1.55% for 7 replicate determinations of 17.10 µmol L-1 of Ni in various membranes.
Aug 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-16-1157
Arlappa NimmathotaCorresponding author
Division of Community Studies, National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Objectives: World has witnessed a considerable increase in the proportion of elderly population.Aging is associated with decreased physical activity and metabolism and thereby the changes in the nutritional requirements of older adults.The objective of this communication was to assess the nutritional status of rural elderly population in India. Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study; adopting multistage stratified random sampling procedure was carried out by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB), during 2005-06 among the rural population of nine major states of India. A total of 3871 older adults were covered for anthropometry and of them, a total of 2138 older adults were covered for dietary assessment. Key Results: In general, the consumption of all the foods was below recommended daily intakes (RDI), and the in-adequacy (<70% of RDI) of intake was high with respect to leafy vegetables, milk & milk products, fats & oils and sugar & jaggery. Similarly, the in-adequacy of intakes of micronutrients such as vitamin A, iron, riboflavin and free folic acid was high among both genders. The poor intake of diet was reflected in high prevalence of chronic energy deficiency (CED) among the rural elderly in India. Conclusions: In general,the rural elderly were subsisting on inadequate diets in terms of both quantity and quality. Similarly, the prevalence of CED among elderly is a ‘‘very high’’ public health nutrition problem in India. Therefore, the Government of India should initiate appropriate nutrition intervention measures to improve the overall nutritional status and special nutrition policies to address the health and nutritional problems of the aging population.
Aug 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-16-1115
Tatemichi MasayukiCorresponding author
Department of Preventive Medicine, Tokai University, School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
Purpose: To determine an appropriate time interval for conducting mass screening for glaucoma, it is important to gather information on the annual incidence rate. Thus, a retrospective cohort study was conducted to determine the annual incidence rate of visual field abnormalities (VFA) among a workplace cohort. Methods: In an initial visual field test using frequency doubling technology (FDT) perimetry conducted on 3443 employees (mean age 47.4 ± 8.9, men/women = 2967/476), no abnormalities were observed. Subjects were followed-up with annual perimetric testing for seven years, with VFA being determined using FDT test (FDT-VFA). Results: Using theKaplan–Meier method (log rank test, p < 0.001), cumulative FDT-VFA rates (SE) at seven years for subjects in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s or older were found to be 3.0% (0.6), 4.2 % (0.6), 4.8 (0.8), and 11.3% (0.2), respectively. A linear fit to the Kaplan–Meier results yielded an annual incidence rate of 0.42%, 0.60%, 0.77%, and 1.60% for the 30s, 40s, 50s, and ≥60s age groups, respectively. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the annual incidence rate of VFA is <0.7% per year in subjects younger than 60 years of age; however, it increases to 1.6% per year in older subjects, thus suggesting that the monitoring frequency of glaucoma patients may need to be adjusted as a function of their age and be performed more frequently after the age of 60 years
Jul 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-16-1112
V. Seeman MaryCorresponding author
Professor Emerita, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 260 Heath St. W., Suite 605, Toronto, Ontario, M5P 3L6, Canada.
Background: Mental health promotion depends to a large extent on the gathering of accurate baseline opinion data from a targeted population. Aim: The aim of this paper is to explore the potential applications of a new method of measuring true attitudes toward mental illness, and of monitoring and evaluating subsequent public health interventions. Method: This paper reviews the strengths and limitations of a novel survey method, RIWI, its early findings, and its potential applications in the field of mental health promotion. Comparisons are made to other commonly used survey methods through entering pertinent search terms into the Google Scholar™ database. Findings: The RIWI online survey method has several advantages over earlier survey methods: it is random, quick, anonymous, and reaches very large samples. Questionnaires are easily translatable and can be repeated, with excellent test-retest reliability. Anonymity reduces social desirability bias. The limitations are: a) variable completion rate, which carries the upside of allowing regional comparisons, and b) the reality that the respondent pool reflects regional Internet usage, often biased toward young literate males. Conclusions: A survey method that is able to quickly and repeatedly sample large numbers of random individuals is an important advance for health promotion in that interventions can be timely and their efficacy can be rapidly evaluated.
Jun 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2374-9431.jbd-15-647
Nawaz AsmatCorresponding author
Dep of Micro and Nano Systems Technology, University South East Norway, 3184, Raveien Borre.
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that results in human body due to insulin deficiency, insulin resistance or both. In the management of diabetes, glucose monitoring technology has been used for the last three decades. The aim of this review article is to describe concise and organized information about different techniques of non-invasive continuous blood glucose monitoring. Many research groups have been working to develop wearable sensors for continuous blood glucose monitoring, but at present, there are to our knowledge no commercially successful non-invasive glucose monitors on the market. To achieve an acceptable sensor system, a glucose sensor should have accuracy better than 15mg/dl (0.8 mmol/l). In future development, continuous glucose sensor systems may become predictable, selective, reliable and acceptable for patient use.
May 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4488.jna-15-720
El Bardai GhitaCorresponding author
Nephrology department, Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco.
Introduction: Sonographic B-lines, also known as lung comets, have been shown to correlate with the presence of extravascular lung water. The aim of this study is to assess if chest ultrasound could detect lung water imbibition and its variations induced by dialysis, an experimental model of controlled rapid fluid loss. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a hemodialysis center in the city of Fez. Lung ultrasounds, impedance measurement, and ultrasound of the inferior vena cava were achieved 30-60 minutes before and after the hemodialysis session. Results: The values, measured by the different techniques used, decrease significantly after hemodialysis (p <0.001). The values studied before and after the hemodialysis, had shown a significant correlation between the results of the impedance measurement, lung ultrasound, and the maximum and minimum of the VCI index diameter and its collapsibility. The decrease in B-lines was correlated with weight decrease during dialysis (p0.005); none of the parameters concerning the IVC were correlated with fluid removal. Conclusion: ultrasound performed at the bedside is now emerging as a reliable, easy-to-apply, and safe method for measuring both lung water and intravascular overload and their decrease after dialysis even on asymptomatic patients. These observations strongly support the use of lung ultrasound in estimating volume overload and monitoring the response to therapy in hemodialysis patients.
Apr 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-15-699
Coronado-Vázquez ValleCorresponding author
Healthcare Director, Hospital of Riotinto, Mines of Riotinto, Huelva
Purpose Hospital readmission of patients with pluripathologies is frequent and costly. This study describes the impact of patients’ pluripathologies, functional capacity and social complexity on readmissions during a 12-month period following hospital discharge. Methods A prospective cohort study. Monthly monitoring of 111 patients over 12 months in Hospital of Riotinto. The primary endpoint was readmission rate. Predictive variables: age, gender, hospitalizations the year before, illnesses that define the pluripathology, medication prescribed on discharge, social situation (Gijón Scale), functional state (Barthel) and cognitive impairment (Pfeiffer). Results Readmissions accounted for 21.6% of the patients surveyed. Of those readmitted, the mean age was lower than those who did not return to hospital (75.4 vs.79.6) (p=0.031), the average amount of medication prescribed greater (10.5 vs.8.7) (p=0.014), the Barthel score higher (52.5 vs.50.6) and the Gijón value lower (13.8 vs.14.6), but no results was significant. The mean survival time (without readmission) was 310.9 days (95% CI, 289.4-332.5). Category B (chronic renal disease and vasculitis) and F (diabetes with microangiopathy and artery disease) had a lower average survival time (X2=7.02; p=0.008) (X2=7.07; p=0.008). The readmission risk was hazard ratio (HR) = 3.13 (95% CI, 1.37-7.14) for category B, and HR = 3.38 (95% CI, 1.37-8.36) for category F. Conclusions There is a high proportion of readmissions among patients with pluripathologies in the year following discharge from hospital. The greater risk occurs in patients with chronic renal insufficiency and diabetes with microvascular complications. Factors that can be modified are polymedication and the proper control of patients’ diabetes.
Apr 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-16-943
KAL DéréCorresponding author
Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry; Unit training and research of Medical Sciences- Alassane OUATTARA University (Cote d’Ivoire).
Unlike developed countries, monitoring of the alimentation quality is important in developing countries. In recent years, several methods of assessing food consumption using simple tools the 24-hour diet recall have been proposed. This individual dietary diversity score (IDDS) is a simplified method for assessing the quality of diets, defined as the number of food groups represented in the diet over a period of time. We conducted an individual qualitative food consumption survey based on the 24 hours recall method. It was an Interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect information.The classification terciles of Dietary Diversity score was obtained from the 14 food groups recommended by FAO. 200diabetic and 200 hypertensive patients regularly followed in the same hospital (University hospital of Treichville) were included in this study without any distinction about treatment. The average of individual dietary diversity score was to 5.6 ± 1.58 for diabetic against 6 ± 1.94 food groups consumed the day before by hypertensive. Hypertensive patients in our study seemed o better diversity their diet with 8% of them who had a high score against 0.5% for diabetic. The food groups most consumed by our population were cereals, white tubers, other vegetables, fish and oils and fats at the expense leafy vegetables, vitamin A fruits, other fruits and legumes, nuts and seeds. In terms of anthropometric factors, we found the influence of waist circumference on food diversification in diabetic and not from hypertensive. Considering the importance of dietary diversity to nutrition and health, these results show the need to mobilize efforts for ensuring that people have better access to and knowledge about adequate nutrition. Despite the fact that this study has to be performed and that comparisons with other countries are required to harmonize the methodology, our results show the interest of the use of a simple tool to assess the quality of the food within the population. Using of this tool is certainly a future solution for a rapid diagnostic of diets quality.
Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2473-1005.jdoi-15-912
M. Ozbek SelcukCorresponding author
Endodontist Dt. Ph.D., Ministry of Health, Oral and Dental Health Hospital, Eskişehir, Turkey.
A healthy 55-year-old man was referred to the Department of Endodontics, Oral and Dental Healthy Hospital, Eskişehir suffering from pain and paraesthesia in the left lower lip and chin.A panoramic radiograph revealed the presence of broken endodontic instrument beyond the apex of the mandibular left third molar. A cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) examination was undertaken, which revealed that the broken instrument was inside the mandibular canal. Damage to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) secondary to extrusion of a broken endodontic instrument was diagnosed. Extraction of the tooth was decided and the patient was prescribed with 1 mg/kg/day prednisone 2 times/day, once-daily regimen, and 150 mg/day pregabalin, two doses per day, monitoring the progress with periodic follow-up visits. One month after the incident, the signs and symptoms were gone. The complete resolution of the paraesthesia and the control of pain achieved in the present case suggest that surgical removal of broken endodontic instrument extruded into the mandibular canal with the use of prednisone and pregabalin is a good option in the management of inferior alveolar nerve injury.
Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-16-924
Arlappa NimmathotaCorresponding author
Division of Community Studies, National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Objectives: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) among the rural pre-school children in India is continues to be a major nutritional problem of public health significance, even after the implementation of national vitamin A prophylaxis programme for more than four decades. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency among rural pre-school children of South India. Methodology: A community based cross-section study; adopting multi-stage random sampling procedure was carried out by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau (NNMB) among rural pre-school children of four South Indian states viz. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka during 2003-05. A total of 35,480 (Boys: 18,216; Girls: 17,264) rural children of 1-5 year age group was covered for this study. Key Results: The prevalence of Bitot’s spot, an objective ocular sign of VAD among the rural pre-school children of South Indian was 0.6% (95%CI:0.5-0.7). Similarly, the proportion of children with sub-clinical VAD was 59.3%, suggestive of a severe public health problem. In general, the prevalence of VAD was significantly higher (p<0.001) among the children of socio-economically marginalized sections of the communities, labourers, illiterate mothers and those residing in the households with no sanitary latrine. Conclusion: The prevalence of clinical and sub-clinical VAD among the rural pre-school children of south India is suggestive of a public health concern. Therefore, rural communities are encouraged to consume diets rich in pre-formed and pro-vitamin A and administer periodic massive dose vitamin A solution to the children of under five for the prevention and control of VAD.
Jun 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-14-617
Srinivasa Rao P.V.L.N.Corresponding author
Department of Biochemistry, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences, Tirupati, India.
Background: Antioxidants play an important role in maintenance of human health and prevention of disease. Effective supplementation of antioxidants requires laboratory monitoring of antioxidant status. An understanding of the methods used to determine the TAS helps in better interpretation of values obtained using a particular method and also to select a suitable method. Material and Methods: Forty subjects including 25 healthy volunteers and 15 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis were studied. All samples were analysed for TAS using Ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) method and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay. Results: Mean TAS values obtained by TEAC method were higher than those obtained by FRAP method (p<0.0001); no difference was observed when TEAC values were corrected for proteins and FRAP values were corrected for uric acid (p=0.420). No correlation was found between TEAC and FRAP methods (p=0.102). However, when TEAC was corrected for proteins, positive correlation was observed with FRAP (p=0.044). There was agreement between the two methods when TEAC values were corrected for proteins. Conclusion: Although the reaction conditions differ, similar compounds react in both the assays and thus TEAC and FRAP assays are comparable. However, the two methods differ with respect to –SH groups and uric acid contributions. This contributes to the higher TAS values obtained by TEAC assay. Thus, in conditions with altered protein or uric acid levels, the two methods may not be used interchangeably. The TEAC assay is to be corrected for protein for comparison of reports of the two assays.
May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4488.jna-14-601
Andreucci MicheleCorresponding author
Nephrology Unit, Department of “Health Sciences”, Campus “Salvatore Venuta”, “Magna Graecia” University, Viale Europa, loc. Germaneto, I-88100 Catanzaro, Italy ([email protected])
Iodinated radiographic contrast agents (IRCA) are pharmaceutical agents used to improve the visibility of internal organs and structures in X-ray based imaging techniques. However, IRCA may have adverse unwanted effects, ranging from a mild inconvenience, such as itching, to a life-threatening emergency. The adverse effects of IRCA include delayed allergic reactions, anaphylactic reactions, and/or cutaneous reactions. But exposure to IRCA may be associated also with the development of either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, presumably due to the effect of free, biologically active elemental iodine ions present in these agents. Among the side effects associated with the use of intravascular injection of IRCA, Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is undoubtedly their most important and frequent well known adverse reaction. The pathogenesis of CIN is discussed in detail including the factors that increase the incidence of CIN, the main ones being pre-existing renal impairment, particularly when associated with diabetes mellitus. Finally, the measures to reduce the nephrotoxicity of IRCA are suggested beginning with monitoring renal function, discontinuation of potentially nephrotoxic drugs, use of either iodixanol or iopamidol at the lowest dosage possible. The main procedure for prevention of CIN is an adequate hydration of the patient with either isotonic sodium chloride or sodium bicarbonate solutions. A long list of references is provided that will enable readers a deep appreciation of the topic.
Sep 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2374-9431.jbd-13-218
Oxenkrug GregoryCorresponding author
Psychiatry and Inflammation Program, Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University School of Medicine and Tufts Medical Center, Boston MA, USA.
The increased association between depression and diabetes mellitus is generally acknowledged. Recent studies suggest that depression leads to diabetes.However, the underlying molecular mechanisms for this association remain unclear.Literature and our data indicate that inflammatory and/or stress factors in depression up-regulate tryptophan (TRP) conversion into kynurenine (KYN), a substrate for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) biosynthesis. Deficiency of vitamin B6, a co-factor of the key enzymes of KYN – NAD pathway, shunts KYN metabolism from formation of NAD towards production of xanthurenic (XA) and kynurenic (KYNA) acids. Human and experimental studies reveal that XA, KYNA and their metabolites interfere with production, release and biological activity of insulin. We propose that inflammation- and/or stress-induced up-regulation of TRP – KYN metabolism in combination with vitamin B6 deficiency is one of the mechanisms mediating increased risk of diabetes in depression. Consequently, monitoring formation of diabetogenic KYN derivatives might help to identify subjects-at-risk for the development of diabetes. Pharmacological down-regulation of the TRP – KYN – NAD pathway and maintenance of adequate vitamin B6 status might help to prevent the development of diabetes in depression and other conditions associated with inflammation/stress–induced excessive production of KYN and vitamin B6 deficiency, e.g., obesity, cardiovascular diseases, aging, menopause, pregnancy, and hepatitis C virus infection.
Jul 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-150
Kashyap BineetaCorresponding author
Department of Microbiology
Aims and Objectives: The incidence of cryptococcal meningitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans has risen markedly over the past 20 years as a result of theHIV epidemic and increasing use of immunosuppressive therapies. The objectives of this study were to isolate and identify Cryptococcus neoformans from clinically suspected cases of fungal meningitis by conventional techniques and evaluate the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) as a serum or urine biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with cryptococcal meningitis. Materials and Methods: Direct microscopic examination of the CSF samples from clinically suspected cases of fungal meningitis was done by India Ink staining for the capsule demonstration and isolation of the Cryptococcus neoformans was done by inoculation of the sample on Sabourauds dextrose agar. Latex agglutination test for the presence of cryptococcal antigen was done on sera, CSF and urine samples. C Reactive Protein levels were estimated in sera and urine. Result: Cryptococcal meningitis was diagnosed in 12 cases by culture and/or India Ink staining and/or latex agglutination assay for antigen detection in CSF. Only 8 (66.67%) and 1 (8.33 %) out of 12 samples were positive for cryptococcal antigen in sera and urine respectively. Whereas all the 12 patients were positive in the sera for CRP above the detection threshold limit, only 1 (8.33 %) patient had raised CRP in urine. CRP was raised two weeks after initiation of antifungal therapy in 3 of the above 12 sera and all these 3 cases turned out to be recurrent cases of cryptococcal meningitis. Conclusion Given the high incidence, morbidity and mortality associated with cryptococcal meningitis, it would be ideal if a screening test could be used to exclude this diagnosis based on the presence of biomarkers in serum or urine which would mean less discomfort for the patient in addition to decreased laboratory examination costs.
Jun 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-174
Rajesh RadhakrishnanCorresponding author
Radhakrishnan Rajesh M.Pharm, Asst Professor (Senior Grade), Department of Pharmacy Practice, Manipal College of pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal University, Manipal- 576 104, Karnataka, India.
Background: In India, Human immunodeficiency (HIV) infected patients with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) are at higher risk of developing adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Objectives: The aim of this study was to characterize the pattern of use of HAART, occurrence, incidence, severity and causality of ADRs to HAART in Indian HIV positive patients. Methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted between August 2009 and May 2012. Enrolled HIV positive patients were intensively monitored for ADRs with fixed dose antiretroviral therapy as per National AIDS Control organization (NACO).World Health Organization (WHO) definition of ADR was adopted to detect ADRs to HAART and classified based on WHO adverse reaction terminologies. Naranjo’s scale was used for causality assessment of ADRs. Preventability was assessed using Thornton and Schuman criteria and severity was assessed using the modified Hart wig and Siegel scale. Pattern of ADRs was assessed with patient demographics, ADRs characteristics, and pattern of drug and reaction characteristics. P-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: A total of 426 ADRs to HAART were evaluated from 1982 HIV positive patients during the study period. The overall incidence of ADRs to HAART was 21.4%. Significant difference was seen in the incidence of ADRs in the age group of 41-60 years (p <0.001), CD4+T-cell counts of 350-500 cells/µl (p <0.001), females (p <0.001). Three fatal ADRs of with cutaneous drug eruptions of Steven Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) was 1.1%. Anemia (31.7%) accounted for majority of the reports followed by vomiting (15.5%), skin rash (12.9%) and peripheral neuropathy (10.7%). The suspected drug was withdrawn for the management of the ADRs in majority (27.9%) of the reports. Higher incidence rate of ADRs was noted with lamivudine (3TC) + nevirapine (NVP) + stavudine (D4T) (22.9%). In, naranjo's causality assessment, majority of the ADR reports were rated as possible (69%). Symptomatic treatment for ADRs was given in 91.8% of the reports and 86.4% of the reports the patient recovered from the suspected adverse reaction at the time of evaluation. Conclusion: In India, occurrence of ADRs to HAART in HIV infected patients was found to be higher with zidovudine induced anemia (31.7%). The higher percentage of ADRs to HAART was seen with female patients, age 41-60 years; CD4+ T-cell counts 350-500 cells/µl. Physician must focus for monitoring all lab investigations for early detection and prevention of adverse effects associated with HAART.
Mar 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-12-173
N. Patel BhavinCorresponding author
Bio-Analytical Laboratory, Cliantha Research Ltd., Bodakdev, Ahmedabad-380054, Gujarat, India.
A reliable, selective and sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) assay has been proposed for the determination of febuxostat in human plasma using indomethacin as the internal standard (IS). The analyte and IS were extracted from 200 µL of human plasma via liquid-liquid extraction using methyl tert-butyl ether. Chromatography was performed on Hypurity C18 (100 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) column under isocratic conditions. Detection of analyte and IS was done by tandem mass spectrometry, operating in negative ionization and multiple reaction monitoring mode. The deprotonated precursor to product ion transitions monitored for febuxostat and indomethacin were m/z 315.1 →271.0 and 356.1→312.0 respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of the method were 0.0025 µg/mL and 0.05 µg/mL respectively. The linear dynamic range validated for febuxostat was 0.05-6.00 µg/mL. The intra-batch and inter-batch precision (% CV) was ≤ 7.1 % while the mean extraction recovery was > 87 % for febuxostat across quality control levels. The method was successfully applied to a bioequivalence study of 80 mg febuxostat tablet formulation in 14 healthy Indian male subjects under fasting and fed condition. The reproducibility in the measurement of study data was demonstrated by reanalysis of 110 incurred samples.