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Jan 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-25-5940
Lower limb osteoarthritis, a widespread age related chronic condition is often accompanied by an increased tendency to fall and thereby various degrees of intrinsic and extrinsic injury. Falls, in turn may provoke the disease alone and in turn a high falls risk and cycle of recurrent falls and heightened disability. This report which updates what is known about falls in the context of disabling osteoarthritis argues for a possible future ecological orientation rather than a focal uni dimensional approach to addressing this costly health problem. It examines osteoarthritis falls risk factors, falls injury prevention attempts, and recommendations to advance research and practice using an ecological analytic approach in this regard. Using the PUBMED data base and others, lower limb osteoarthritis linkages and falls interaction studies were sought and examined. The data revealed osteoarthritis can lead to the chances of incurring one or more falls and further health and disability challenges, while falling can provoke the onset of osteoarthritis in its own right. Although many factors appear to be involved, these are rarely viewed through a broad multi dimensional ecological perspective, thus are confusing or overwhelming to apply to the active community dwelling elderly subject.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5715
Recruitment for research studies focused on communicable diseases such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has historically been challenging, particularly among populations who have been underrepresented in media messaging, yet maintain a significant vulnerability to new HIV cases, like Black women. This study examines the recruitment strategies utilized in Aim 2 of pilot study at the University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHealth) in Houston, Texas that was funded by the Ujima Mentoring Program to develop, implement, and evaluate a video log (vlog)-based intervention. The overarching goal of the pilot study was to promote the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among cisgender Black women in Harris County, Texas. Aim 2 involved the creation of a culturally relevant vlog for use in Aim 3, which sought to educate and motivate participants to consider PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy. With the growing role of digital platforms in public health outreach, social media was employed alongside traditional recruitment methods such as flyers and word-of-mouth referrals. Despite an expanded online reach, engagement remained low, and participation rates did not increase proportionally to the number of individuals who viewed recruitment materials. The reluctance to participate was largely attributed to stigma surrounding HIV and concerns about being publicly associated with an HIV prevention study based on participants feedback to the research team. Even the availability of research incentives to encourage participation did not significantly improve recruitment accrual goals, particularly among healthcare providers who experienced limitations with eligibility due to institutional policies. This study underscores the need to better understand the social and cultural barriers that prevent Black women and healthcare providers from engaging in HIV prevention research. While digital recruitment strategies can enhance visibility to a larger audience, they must be supported with trust-building efforts, community partnerships, and culturally competent messaging to encourage meaningful participation. These findings point to the critical need for multi-faceted recruitment strategies that go beyond social media campaigns and actively build trust within communities, ensuring that HIV prevention research and interventions are both accessible and culturally resonant.
Mar 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-0904.ijoe-21-3884
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.
Oct 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4343
Most hospitals have infection prevention and control committees but some of them are struggling to maintain and to apply infection prevention and control protocols due to lack of enough resources. Healthcare workers’ (HCWs) knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of infection prevention and control procedures are crucial for effective infection prevention and control (IPC). The study aimed to assess HCW’s KAP towards IPC in Rwanda. A cross-sectional hospital based study was directed in three hospitals in Karongi district from February to March 2022. Data were collected from 215 healthcare workers using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire using a stratified sampling technique. Data were collected, checked, coded, and entered into the Kobo Collect Toolbox before being transferred to SPSS version 21 for analysis. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. The KAP Score was also calculated. P-values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. We found that 50.7% of HCWs were males, 63.3% were between the ages of 18 and 58.2% had a secondary education. The overall 78.6% of HCWs demonstrated high level of knowledge, 79.5% with a positive attitude, and 63.3% with good IPC practice. The results revealed that being over 45 years old(AOR=3.1;95%,CI=(2.16-5.25; p=0.024) having university level(AOR=3.3); 95%CI=(1.56-7.56;p=0.035), working experience between 5-10years(AOR=1.7; 95%CI=(1.37-5.45); (p=0.003), having high level of knowledge (AOR=2.7;95%CI: (1.68–7.95; p=0.045)and positive attitude(AOR=2.3; 95%CI:(1.36-7.72); p=0.017) towards IPC were associated with IPC good practice. Improving institutional supplies such as hand hygiene supplies, PPE, water supply and other facilities can improve safe infection prevention and control.
Feb 2022
Using samples of small cell lung tumors, a research team led by biologist Dr. Raymond discovered two new ways to induce tumor cell death. By activating ferroptosis, one of two subtypes of tumor cells can be targeted: first, iron-dependent cell death due to oxidative stress, and second, oxidative stress. Therefore, cell death can also be induced in a different way. Both types of cell death must be caused by drugs at the same time to eliminate the majority of the tumor mass. It is currently in clinical trials for cancer treatment. Auranofin, which inhibits the production of protective antioxidants in cancer cells, has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis for decades. Future clinical trials using this combination therapy will determine the extent to which this targeted treatment option improves the prognosis of small cell lung cancer patients. It is currently in clinical trials for cancer treatment. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Despite evidence of molecular abnormalities in biological specimens, progress in this disease is hampered by the lack of diagnostic markers useful for clinical practice. The majority of patients with lung cancer are still diagnosed at an advanced stage, when prognosis is poor. This article reviews new strategies being studied for the early detection of lung cancer. These strategies involve new methods of imaging (including low-dose computed tomography CT scanning), DNA analysis, and proteomic-based techniques. These strategies have not only improved our understanding of lung cancer but show promise in offering better survival to patients with this deadly disease. Of paramount importance in the search for methods of early detection is the need for the identification of the ideal population to screen, a multidisciplinary approach, and validation of promising techniques.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3950
This study aimed to assess factors influencing knowledge and practices of hospital cleaners towards hepatitis B prevention. This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted at in Northern Province of Rwanda. A pretested self-administered questionnaire was used to gather data from study participants. A total of 134 cleaners were recruited in the study. Data were entered using Kobo collect toolbox and exported to Microsoft office excel for data cleaning and to entered in SPSS version 21 for analysis. Descriptive and logistic regression analysis was done and the significance level was 5%. More than a half of respondents were female (51.5%), and had primary level of education (54.5%). Results showed that only 9.7% of respondents had a high level of knowledge about HBV and only 2.2% had good practices on HBV practices. The odds of having high level of knowledge towards HBV prevention was 2.3 times (AOR=2.3, 95%CI: (1.1-27.3); p=0.045) among respondents with high school compared to those with no educational level. Respondents with work experience of 5-7 years were 1.5 times to have high level of knowledge towards HBV prevention than those with work experience of less than one year. Being aged between 20-30 years was associated with 2.5 times more likely to have good practices on HBV prevention than respondents aged less than 20 years. The odds of having good practice towards HBV had found to increase with work experience (AOR=2.3; 95%CI: (1.29-4.3); p=0.014). Considerable proportion of participants lacks the requisite knowledge of post-exposure treatment and prevention of HBV. Training programs on HBV infection, including PEP are highly recommended.
Sep 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4837.ijip-20-3944
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.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3741
Background Ethiopia confirmed its 1st case of COVID-19 on Friday 13th February 2020. The burden increased dramatically by August/2020. The conditions that led to this rise were not reviewed. Objective To exploreCOVID-19 related phenomena in Ethiopia during 2019-2020. Materials and Methods Review of journals, books, and letters to editors, e-sources, news, personal experiences, observations, and communications. Results The zoonotic source of SARS- CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome- Coronavirus-2) is not confirmed. The precedent events; and exact mechanism of COVID-19 is not clear. Dynamic models were required on the time line of dynamics of COVID-19; dynamics of infectiousness of COVID-19, and mechanism of transmission of COVID-19. Incubatory carriers might have been missed. Screening based on temperature had been problematic. The time spent in the development of diagnostic test for COVID-19 might have contributed to the early spread. Uninterrupted flights to China during the epidemic by Ethiopian Airlines as well as uninterrupted domestic flights; IDP (Internally Displaced People); and others put Ethiopia (and other countries) at great risk. Demographic adjustment may not be applicable for Ethiopia due to lack of census which had to be conducted every 10 year, was conducted only in 2007. This adds to the problem of error projection. The impact of HIV (Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus Disease) and war in Ethiopia before 2000 might have had affected people who would be now old age and who would be at the most risk of death. This made the impact of COVID-19 to appear low as revealed by the lower number of COVID-related deaths in Ethiopia. There were also hesitations inconsistencies in case definitions; implementations of quarantine; and burial regulations. Conclusion Even though uninhibited foreign flight to China as well as domestic flights; inconsistencies in the implementation of regulations pertaining to COVID-19 have contributed to COVID- 19 emergence in Ethiopia, the absence of census; the demographic impact of HIV and war before 2000 might have made the impact of COVID-19 to appear low as revealed by the lower number of COVID-related deaths in Ethiopia. Recommendation Accurate and current evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 in Ethiopia may require the absence of census; demographic consequences of HIV; and war before 2000 into consideration.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3683
Women in Rwanda are still suffering from overweight and obesity and health-related complications. However, little is known about overweight/obesity prevention knowledge and factors associated with overweight/obesity prevention among women. The aim of this study was to determine knowledge and factors associated with overweight and obesity prevention among women attending Kibagabaga Hospital in Rwanda. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted among women aged 20-45 years that was selected randomly. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 384 women seeking health care at the hospital during the study period. SPSS version 21 was used for data analysis; descriptive statistics was used to assess women’s knowledge related to overweight/obesity. Logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with overweight/obesity prevention, the level of significance was set at 5%. Approval to conduct the study was obtained from the University and Hospital. The majority 35.4% of study participants were aged between 30-34 years. Women who live in urban area dominate the study (76.3%), the majority of study participants were married (60.9%). The study revealed that the 22% and 62% of women had higher level and moderate knowledge respectively. In terms of overweight/obesity prevention practices, we found that 67% mothers had adequate practices towards overweight and obesity prevention. The age of 35-39, and unemployment were found to be significantly associated with overweight/obesity prevention practices. Cost-effective health education focusing on women, physical activity and social support to reduce the socio-cultural constraints that promote overweight/obesity are necessary to combat this epidemic.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-20-3633
Introduction HIV prevention services to in-school adolescents need good planning and management. HIV risk reduction interventions are geared toward measuring sexual risk behaviour outcomes of adolescents that predispose them to HIV infection. The sexual behaviour of adolescents, especially in-school adolescents should be assessed in the process. Adolescents have been identified as the most vulnerable group for acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and as such, measures should be taken to prevent them from infection. One important reason for higher HIV prevalence among adolescents, especially girls, is the frequent practice of age-discrepant partnering, where older men, who are more likely to be infected with HIV, form sexual partners with younger girls. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge and sexual behaviour of in-school adolescents in the prevention of HIV and AIDs in rural areas of Abia State. Materials and Methods This is a descriptive cross-sectional survey that was conducted between January and March 2020. Information was collected from 66 students of a community secondary school in the state. Participants were selected by a multi-stage sampling method and data were obtained using a semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. Results Respondents consisted of 40(60.6%) females and 26(39.4%) males with ages ranging from 13 to 19. Some of the respondents 28 (42.4%), are living with parents while 24(36.4%) live with close relatives. A good number of the respondents 39(59.1%), accepted that their friends are HIV positive. Majority of them 49(74.2%) have not been approached for sexual relationships. About 17(25.8%) of the respondents accepted that they have boyfriends and girlfriends. Out of this number, 12(18.2%) of them said they have been approached for sex and only 2(3%) of them accepted having sexual relationships with the opposite sex. Finding showed that only 1(1.5%) of the respondents claimed to have ever used condoms during sex. Of the sexually active respondents, 49(74.2%) of them are aware that HIV is a virus infection caused by having multiple sex partners while 14(21.2%) were not sure whether HIV is a virus or bacterial infection. Conclusion The study revealed a gap in the knowledge of HIV prevention as well as inappropriate sexual behaviour among the respondents. Therefore, meaningful strategies that will be culturally sensitive to modify adolescent sexual risk behaviours should be adopted.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-20-3425
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.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3242
Mental health and mental illness is a critical to a person’s overall health. In the United States alone, mental illness effects one in six adults. Furthermore, 40% of those individuals who die of suicide have been diagnosed with a mental health condition or illness. Yet, there is a paucity of research on innovative methods that help prevent suicide. The Contextual-Conceptual Therapy (CCT) approach introduces an innovative way to treat suicide by working to uncover the strengths of the suicidal person and addressing a person’s true self. The CCT approach was developed over the course of 25 years working with more than 16,000 suicidal patients in Seattle, Washington, and is tailored specifically for primary and secondary prevention of suicide. While there has been anecdotal evidence of the effectiveness of the CCT program, the program has yet to be formally evaluated. This qualitative research study aims to understand the impact the CCT approach has had on its clients. Eleven former CCT clients were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Outcomes described by participants included an increase in curiosity and self-efficacy as a means through which to decrease suicide ideation and behavior, and proved to be incredibly powerful in changing long-term outcomes. This qualitative study is a first-step in providing critical insight on suicide prevention for wider dissemination. At a time when adverse mental health and illness is impacting the lives of millions of people, the CCT approach has the potential to address suicide, mental illness and mental health across diverse populations.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8681.jcsr-21-3719
Background Since receiving unexplained pneumonia patients at the Jinyintan Hospital in Wuhan, China in December 2019, the new coronavirus (COVID-19) has rapidly spread in Wuhan, China and spread to the entire China and some neighboring countries. We establish the dynamics model of infectious diseases and time series model to predict the trend and short-term prediction of the transmission of COVID-19, which will be conducive to the intervention and prevention of COVID-19 by departments at all levels in mainland China and buy more time for clinical trials. Methods Based on the transmission mechanism of COVID-19 in the population and the implemented prevention and control measures, we establish the dynamic models of the six chambers, and establish the time series models based on different mathematical formulas according to the variation law of the original data. Findings The results based on time series analysis and kinetic model analysis show that the cumulative diagnosis of pneumonia of COVID-19 in mainland China can reach 36,343 after one week (February 8, 2020), and the number of basic regenerations can reach 4.01. The cumulative number of confirmed diagnoses will reach a peak of 87,701 on March 15, 2020; the number of basic regenerations in Wuhan will reach 4.3, and the cumulative number of confirmed cases in Wuhan will reach peak at 76,982 on March 20. Whether in Mainland China or Wuhan, both the infection rate and the basic regeneration number of COVID-19 continue to decline, and the results of the sensitivity analysis show that the time it takes for a suspected population to be diagnosed as a confirmed population can have a significant impact on the peak size and duration of the cumulative number of diagnoses. Increased mortality leads to additional cases of pneumonia, while increased cure rates are not sensitive to the cumulative number of confirmed cases. Interpretation Chinese governments at various levels have intervened in many ways to control the epidemic. According to the results of the model analysis, we believe that the emergency intervention measures adopted in the early stage of the epidemic, such as blocking Wuhan, restricting the flow of people in Hubei province, and increasing the support to Wuhan, had a crucial restraining effect on the original spread of the epidemic. It is a very effective prevention and treatment method to continue to increase investment in various medical resources to ensure that suspected patients can be diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. Based on the results of the sensitivity analysis, we believe that enhanced treatment of the bodies of deceased patients can be effective in ensuring that the bodies themselves and the process do not result in additional viral infections, and once the pneumonia patients with the COVID-19 are cured, the antibodies left in their bodies may prevent them from reinfection COVID-19 for a longer period of time.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3264
Chinese people have a very good mask-wearing culture; it is normal to wear masks to protect their faces from wind and pollution. Thus, they easily accept the wearing of masks to prevent infectious diseases, as seen with the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China today. However, Chinese people have a dangerous eating culture: they share foods or soups from the same bowls and pots using their personal chopsticks/spoons and emphasize loud talking when eating at banquets or at homes. We think this eating culture has raised the infection risk of COVID-19 from person to person by contamination. Therefore, in this paper, we propose models to elucidate how people are infected with COVID-19 through droplet transmission when eating with Chinese cultural context to address the urgent need to change Chinese eating culture; we believe these study models can help not only the Chinese people, but also other national people, to raise mindfulness of public health, prevent COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, at the present pandemic and in the future.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-7669.ject-19-3040
Many lay people along with some so called “key opinion leaders” have a common slogan “There's no answer for cancer”. Again, mistake delays proper treatment and make situation worse, more often. Compliance is crucial to obtain optimal health outcomes, such as cure or improvement in QoL. Patients may delay treatment or fail to seek care because of high out-of- pocket expenditures. Despite phenomenal development, conventional therapy falls short in cancer management. There are two major hurdles in anticancer drug development: dose-limiting toxic side effects that reduce either drug effectiveness or the QoL of patients and complicated drug development processes that are costly and time consuming. Cancer patients are increasingly seeking out alternative medicine and might be reluctant to disclose its use to their oncology treatment physicians. But there is limited available information on patterns of utilization and efficacy of alternative medicine for patients with cancer. As adjuvant therapy, many traditional medicines shown efficacy against brain, head and neck, skin, breast, liver, pancreas, kidney, bladder, prostate, colon and blood cancers. The literature reviews non-pharmacological interventions used against cancer, published trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-19-2947
Objectives Death is the only definitive phenomenon in life, and everyone is sure that it will happen in the future. Based on the philosophical perspective, the concept of death differs in different cultures. The purpose of this study was “explaining the difference between the concept of death from the perspective of theology and empirical science”. Methods In this qualitative evolutionary study, a targeted review was conducted to answer the question “what is the difference between the concept of death from the perspective of theology and empirical science?” Articles published between 1990 and 2018 were extracted from the PubMed, science direct, google scholar, SID, and Cochrane databases. At the same time, Islamic religious evidence (Quran and Hadiths) was investigated for understanding the concept of the death in Islam. The “Shia Seminary” research methodology was used to avoid interpretations of the Quran verses and to ensure the authenticity of the Hadiths. Findings Empirical sciences consider death as a biological phenomenon, which results from irreversible damage to cerebral hemispheres and brain stem (brain death) that causes grief process, fear, anxiety, and sadness. From the perspective of Islam, death is an existential phenomenon, the transfer of the soul from one world to another. Death is the complete reception of the soul from the body by the angels and the beginning of another life, in the "world of grief. Conclusion Given that in Islam, death does not mean destruction. It is imperative that the spiritual counselors teach the patient and the family about the life after death and the blessings of paradise. In pastoral care at the end of life, reducing patients’ anxiety and fear of death, with hope in God's mercy is necessary.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2283.jsem-19-2949
Background The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury is uncommon, but constitutes an important percentage of the lesions requiring more than 8 weeks of recovery in sports. Most ACL injuries do not require external contact and are associated with biomechanical risk factors that stress this ligament ACL: like an increase in knee valgus angle (KV) and hip flexion (HF) and a decreased in knee flexion (KF). The ACL requires muscle cooperation to resist the load; however, when there is fatigue, the protective capacity of the musculature would decrease. The objective of the study is to analyze the angular behavior before and after a physical load for HF in children of 14-15 years old. Hypothesis The physical load applied in a single training session is enough to change some biomechanical risk factors of ACL injury. Study Design Experimental study Level of Evidence 2b Methods The sample consisted of 50 students from different soccer schools between 14-15 years old. We analyzed the hip angular behavior of hip flexion before and after a training session. The angles where obtained from inertioal sensor while the students performed a Drop Jump test from a 30 centimeters drawer. Results Statistically significant differences were found in the differences between pre physical load HF / post-load HF (p = 0.00053), right pre physical load HF / right post- load HF (p = 0.0086) and left post- load (p = 0.0248206). Conclusions It was concluded that the angular behavior of HF increases significantly in both post-training limbs, after performing a physical load. Clinical Relevance This study analyzed the importance of using prevention injury programs since early stages, and give importance to the eccentric role of hamstring, gluteus and core exercises.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-2818.jfb-19-2637
This preliminary study explores misoprostol as a preventive strategy for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. It outlines rationale, dosing considerations, and early safety signals, and calls for controlled trials to establish efficacy and risk–benefit.
Jun 2018
Background: Tungiasis is a parasitic tropical disease caused by female Tungapenetranswhich has remained an important public health problem and it affects resource-poor communities causing different health disabilities hence the need for behavior change. Main objective of the study was to determine factors influencing prevention and control of tungiasis infestation among school age children in Ugenya Sub County, Kenya. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional design and utilizing quantitative data collection method. Simple random sampling technique was applied to select the participants. Quantitative data was collected through a pretested structured questionnaire. The data was keyed-into excel and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: Study findings indicate that majority of the pupils infested with tungiasis were in classes 5 – 6 at 191(49%). Male participants were 200 (51%), while 185(49%) were female. Gender of pupils (χ2=4.383a, df=1, P<0.005) and household head occupation (χ2=44.729, df = 28, P<0.005) had a statistical significance with tungiasis infestation. Further significance was noted between participants who had ever heard of jiggers (χ2=6.361, df=1, P<0.005), Knowledge on important causes of jiggers (χ2=36.482, df = 9, P<0.005), mode of disease transmission (χ2=17.215, df = 5, P<0.005), signs and symptoms (χ2=4.088, df = 1, P<0.005), seriousness of jiggers in the area (χ2=13.175, df = 1, P<0.005) as well as pupil’s wearing of shoes (χ2=3.934, df = 1, P<0.005) and tungiasis infestation. Conclusions: Study concludes that tungiasis is still a big problem in rural settings and knowledge on tungiasis infestation does not translate to prevention and control in the areas. More emphasis should be given to improving practices touching on personal hygiene and health education to increase awareness both at school and in the households.
Feb 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-17-1868
An ecological study was conducted on termites located at the new site of Ndola International Airport in Zambia. The aim of this study was: (a) to assess the distribution pattern of different sizes of termite mounds located at the site, (b) to investigate the interior geometrics of termite mounds, (c) to determine the colony sizes of termites per each mound found at the site and (d) to provide technical expertise on the different termite preventive methods used on new buildings. Methods Using an aero-drone fitted with a camera, aerial surveys were conducted to capture and evaluate the spread of differently sized mounds at the site. Mathematical models were used to calculate the volume and number of nests contained in each mound. The colony sizes were captured and recorded per each mound. Analysis Multivariate statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, to compute a two way ANOVA table for comparison of p-values involving the colony sizes and the volumes of nests for small and big mounds. The ratios affecting these volumes were also calculated. Results The total of 1,880 termite mounds was captured spreading at an average of 14 mounds/ 1km2. Results further showed that 65% of total mounds were actively housing termites while 32% were virtually deserted. The 3% balance of mounds were occupied by rodents, ants and snakes, respectively. Progression on the volume of nests in bigger and smaller mounds, significantly tallied with the size of mound at p < 0.0121 and p < 0.0346, respectively. Similarly, the colony size of termites in small and larger mounds was also significant at p < 0.002 and p < 0.001, respectively. The nest volume ratios of small, medium and larger mounds were also markedly increasing with the size of mound at 1:8.7-small, 1:32.8 medium and 1:1, 098.6-large, respectively. Conclusion Not every existing termite mound is occupied by termites; the size of nest was directly related to the size of mound; the size of colony concurrently increased with that of the volume of nest. This study unravels some intriguing and conflicting suggestions that smaller mounds can still have larger colonies underground and vice versa. Furthermore, this study is the first in Zambia to combine the concepts of termite habitat geometrics and infrastructural protection.
Jan 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-17-1911
Falls continue to be a health concern for older adults. Gender and age are key predictors of falls, particularly for those with low health literacy. Data were collected by a State Health Department using the state-led supplemental question option for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey. Specifically, trend data for respondents were examined by gender, geographic location and health literacy rate. Results indicated the highest mean number falls occurred with men for those within the metropolitan statistical area (MSA) city code, lowest in suburban areas. Females reported to have a higher estimated mean number of falls and injuries than males. For males, the number of falls and injuries tended to decrease with higher health literacy. The findings support the importance of addressing fall prevention for older adults. Long term implications for improving fall prevention and health literacy for older adults include impact on individual outcomes.
Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1773
The knowledge,attitudes, and practice among inhabitants of Babati district in Tanzania on sparganosis were evaluated. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 160 participants from the district. Demographic and socioeconomic information of the participants and their KAP on sparganosis was collected by using a pre-tested questionnaire. All 160(100%) participants had no knowledge about sparganosis. Regarding attitude of participants to keeping dogs and cats; all 160 (100%) participants were not aware of dangers associated with dogs and cats to transmission of sparganosis. 39 (30.0%) of the participants had knowledge of drinking boiled water. There is a need to organise health education programme about sparganosis to increase community knowledge.
Jan 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2476-1710.jdt-16-1306
Background. Suicide prevention programs centred on reinforcing protective factors are uncommon. Aims. Since leading a meaningful life is incompatible with suicide, a 14-week program designed to help participants realize meaningful personal goals was created to improve the psychological well-being (PWB) of depressed older adults (≥ 65 years). Method. Persons scoring 9 or above on the Beck Depression Inventory- II (M = 22.05) took part in the program (n = 24). Their levels of PWB, depression, and suicidal thoughts were compared to those of a control group (n = 18). The questionnaires were completed three times: pre-test, post-test, and follow-up (six months later). Results. Analyses showed that the program participants improved significantly on most indicators of wellbeing, including suicidal ideation, indicating that increasing protective factors could be an innovative way to prevent suicidal ideation. However, the changes were not significantly higher than those observed in the control group, except for meaning in life. Conclusions. The absence of difference between groups was partly justified by unexplained improvements of controls between post-test and follow-up. Future studies should develop suicide prevention program thatincrease protective factors that provide individuals with means to achieve an optimal state of functioning.
Mar 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-13-332
Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of patent haemostasis in avoiding radial artery occlusion after transradial catheterization. Background: Radial artery occlusion is an infrequent but discouraging complication of transradial access. It is related to factors such as sheath to artery ratio and is less common in patients receiving heparin. Despite being clinically silent in most cases, it limits future transradial access. Patients and Methods: 130 patients undergoing transradial catheterization were prospectively enrolled in the study. 65 patients were randomized to group I, and underwent conventional pressure application for haemostasis. 65 were randomized to group II and underwent pressure application confirming radial artery patency using Barbeau’s test. Radial artery patency was studied at 24 hr and 30 days using Barbeau’s test. Results: There was Statistically significant difference found in rate of radial artery occlusion of both the groups at 24 hours (24.61% vs. 4.61% ,X2(1)=4.44, P<0.05) and at 30 days(20% vs. 3%,X2(1) =4.03, P < 0.05). Patients with Higher age and smaller radial artery diameter were at significantly higher risk of radial artery occlusion. No other procedural variables were found to be associated with radial artery occlusion. Conclusion: Patent haemostasis is highly effective in reducing radial artery occlusion after radial access and guided compression should be performed to maintain radial artery patency at the time of haemostasis, to prevent future radial artery occlusion.
Jan 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-7061.jcrc-14-394
This review synthesizes evidence on NSAIDs and colorectal cancer prevention. It balances chemopreventive efficacy against gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks, and considers selective COX‑2 inhibitors, dosing, and candidate populations for risk‑benefit.
May 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-128
This commentary argues for incorporating secondary prevention into the HIV care continuum for patients retained in care. It outlines opportunities to reduce transmission through viral suppression, risk reduction counseling, and supportive services within routine visits.
Jan 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-187
Retention of sufficient numbers of participants in longitudinal research studies is a serious methodological concern, as retention influences the validity of the research findings. An assessment of participant retention or attending all study visits was made quarterly during a 12 month follow-up of an HIV incident cohort in Kisumu, Kenya. The study objectives were to determine 1) the proportion of participants attending all study visits and 2) demographic and behavioral factors associated with missing ≥ 1 visit. The Kisumu Incidence Cohort Study (KICoS) was initiated in January 2007 (N=831). Detailed contact information was collected from each participant to enhance retention. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to determine factors associated with missing ≥ 1 visit. Overall retention was 90%. Of those enrolled, 46.4% were females. The adjusted odds of missing ≥ 1 study visit were greater for participants who were female (AOR=2.85; CI=1.90-4.28) and who had technical training (AOR=2.51; CI=1.20-5.25) or college/university education (AOR=1.89; CI=1.10-3.24) compared to having no or only primary education. Retention was high in this HIV prevention cohort study. However, studies could benefit by tailoring retention strategies for women. Disclaimer: The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their respective institutions.
Nov 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-200
Various sporting activities are being used as vehicles for HIV/AIDS education and prevention within the field of sport-for-development (SFD). Kicking AIDS Out! is one SFD program that aims to promote protective attitudes regarding HIV/AIDS amongst youth. This study explored organizers’ perspectives of the use of sporting activities in the Kicking AIDS Out! program in Trinidad and Tobago. Qualitative case study methodology was used to examine the case. Data was generated through semi-structured interviews with seven organizers who were Kicking AIDS Out! staff or volunteer members. Thematic analysis guided data analysis. Generated themes include: Sport to Draw, There’s Something for Everyone, the Emotional Wow, and Beyond Sports. These themes illuminate the idea that sport captivates and attracts youth, and illustrate the use of sport activities to promote engagement in the program as they are tailored to the skills and interests of youth. Sport activities may challenge values and beliefs regarding HIV/AIDS and may promote engagement in new roles, such as those as advocate or caregiver for individuals with HIV/AIDS, and engagement in healthy lifestyle behaviours, such as safe sexual encounters. The findings of this study offer an opportunity for HIV/AIDS prevention programs to consider their use of sporting activities in a manner that achieves these SFD characteristics.
Sep 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-268
Established in 1996 with funding from CDC and NIH, the HIV/AIDS Prevention Program Archive (HAPPA) is now the biggest private sector collection of HIV-related evidence-based behavioral interventions (EBIs). Each EBI in HAPPA has been determined by a distinguished Scientist Expert Panel to have demonstrated efficacy in preventing HIV or its risk-related behaviors in the United States. The multimedia replications kits contain everything that a new site would need to implement an EBI such as a user guide that gives an overview of the program and the evidence of its effectiveness; a facilitator’s manual that gives step-by-step implementation protocols for each session; and session implementation materials referenced in the facilitator's manual such as slides, video clips, participant handouts, activity masters, checklists, and homework assignments for the next session. The program packages also contain evaluation materials such as surveys and questionnaires that were used in the original demonstration of effectiveness and that may be used to re-evaluate the program as implemented in a new setting. Recently, we have expanded HAPPA’s scope to include HIV EBIs developed globally and to include evidence-based structural interventions (effective in modifying the physical, social, cultural, political, economic, legal, and/or policy aspects of the HIV risk environment). This paper describes HAPPA’s procedures for identifying, selecting, acquiring and packaging HIV EBIs. It also provides comprehensive lists of evidence-based HIV behavioral and structural interventions and gives information on how to access EBI program packages for implementation in new settings.
Dec 2012 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-68
New research suggests that people living with HIV have the potential to be strong advocates for HIV prevention by passing on HIV prevention messages within their social networks. However, there is a paucity of research into the nature and prevalence of HIV prevention behaviours engaged in by HIV clients, and the psychosocial correlates of such advocacy, which are the goals of this analysis. We examined engagement in HIV prevention advocacy among 602 new HIV clients at two clinics in Uganda. Eighty nine percent reported encouraging others to get tested for HIV, 79% told people they know to use condoms when they have sex, and 61% reported discussing HIV more generally with friends and family. A client was classified as fully engaged in HIV prevention advocacy if they reported engaging in all three of the measured HIV prevention advocacy behaviors. In the bivariate analysis, being from the rural study site (p<0.001), higher levels of HIV disclosure to friends (p<0.001), greater hopefulness (p<0.001), and lower levels of depression (p<0.001) and internalized HIV stigma (p<0.001) were associated with full engagement in HIV prevention advocacy. In the multivariate analysis, being from the rural study site (OR=5.461, 95% CI=3.11-9.61), lower levels of internalized HIV stigma (OR=0.524, 95% CI=0.39-0.70) and higher levels of HIV status disclosure to friends (OR=2.040, 95% CI=1.23-3.38) remained significantly associated with full engagement in prevention advocacy. These data suggest that psychosocial adjustment and functioning may play a key role in empowering HIV clients to be advocates for prevention.
Jun 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-26-6358
Hip fractures, which remain an immense public health concern, have been subject to study and prevention efforts for many decades, but with limited success in averting either incident, second or subsequent hip fractures, commonly attributed to a combination of age related proclivity to fall, low bone and muscle mass. This review examines second hip fracture incidence rates and determinants of this serious functionally debilitating injury as observed over time remains a current 2026 public health concern. It specifically explores if more preventive efforts are currently warranted in this regard, and in what respect, if indeed, more frail older adults are living longer, but may be in excessively poor health, fearful of moving or falling, malnourished, weak with poor balance, or depressed. Based on what is published, it is concluded 1) second hip fracture incidence rates remain considerable, especially among those who are frail with osteoporotic bone disease, poor vision, heart/or cognitive conditions, plus those with muscle deficits of the lower limb, live alone and have a falls history; 2) studies to identify possible mitigation approaches appear promising in this regard, along with more routine efforts to minimize falls risk and bone attrition.
Jun 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2283.jsem-26-6247
Background Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries in sports, often characterized by high recurrence rates despite appropriate local treatment. Traditional approaches primarily focus on the injured joint, with limited attention to proximal biomechanical factors that may predispose athletes to injury. Objective To propose a functional, longitudinal kinetic chain model in which sacroiliac joint dysfunction may act as a predisposing factor for ankle sprain/strain injuries in athletes. Methods This paper presents a clinical hypothesis based on biomechanical reasoning and observational findings. The proposed model describes how sacroiliac joint dysfunction, particularly posterior innominate rotation (PI), may lead to pelvic obliquity and functional leg length discrepancy. These changes may induce compensatory femoral external rotation and foot toe-out, altering ground contact mechanics during gait and running. Results (Hypothesis) The altered alignment and loading pattern may increase the vertical impact force and modify the ground reaction vector on the functionally shorter limb, resulting in reduced mechanical stability at the ankle during heel strike or foot contact. Over time, this may increase susceptibility to inversion or eversion injuries, manifesting clinically as recurrent sprain/strain. Conclusion Ankle sprains in athletes may, in some cases, represent the distal expression of a proximal biomechanical imbalance. Incorporating assessment of the sacroiliac joint and the longitudinal kinetic chain into routine clinical evaluation may improve injury risk identification and contribute to more effective prevention strategies. Further research is needed to investigate this proposed relationship.
May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4837.ijip-26-6169
Introduction The risk of exposure to M. tuberculosis among healthcare workers (HCW) remains a public health concern worldwide. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Biomedical Research and Training Institute supported the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care in strengthening infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in healthcare facilities (HCF), integrating tuberculosis (TB) infection control (TBIC) into the intervention strategy. We describe the impact of this intervention on TBIC practices and HCW screening outcomes. Methods The strategy, implemented from June 2021–September 2022, included IPC mentorship training, competency assessments, and use of a standardized risk assessment tool for progress monitoring. For the training purposes, the project developed eight practical problem-solving IPC modules including an occupational health component. Trained mentors conducted bi-monthly site support visits (SSV), used a checklist to track compliance, and assessed competencies of HCW at the targeted facilities. Facility-based risk assessments were conducted three times during the project implementation. Results During the intervention, 1,865 HCW from 105 facilities were trained. Availability and use of personal protective equipment improved by 49% and 42%, respectively. The proportion of HCF with designated areas for sputum collection increased by 43%. The proportion of HCF that screened HCW for TB increased by 42% with 3,761 HCW screened during the project period. Fourteen were diagnosed with TB and referred for care, resulting in 372 new cases per 100,000. Conclusion The implemented strategy of training, mentorship, and regular SSV strengthened TBIC measures, improved TB screening practices and case finding among HCW. Improving and maintaining practices is critical for effective TBIC.
Dec 2025
The journey from personalized medicine to customized nutrition represents a significant paradigm shift in healthcare, emphasizing the holistic method for a person's or girl's well-being. in this transition, the know how of the unique genetic makeup , metabolic profile, and way of lifestyles elements of everybody will become paramount. customized medicinal drug has long centered on tailoring scientific remedies to the genetic and physiological traits of sufferers, optimizing efficacy, and minimizing detrimental effects. Now, custom-designed nutrients increase this idea further, recognizing that weight reduction plays an essential function in health and disease prevention. Key to this evolution is the mixing of advanced technology together with genomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, allowing the suitable identification of dietary styles and nutritional requirements tailored to a person's particular desires. This summary explores the trajectory of this adventure, highlighting the pivotal characteristic of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and researchers. With the useful resource of leveraging slicing facet generation and records-pushed strategies, personalized vitamins keep the promise of revolutionizing knowledge we method nutritional interventions, moving some distance from generalized guidelines towards targeted strategies tailored to all people's precise organic make up and way of life. expertise, traumatic conditions which include accessibility to this technology, ethical issues, and the desire for sturdy, proof-primarily based practices remain. In conclusion, the shift from customized treatments to personalized nutrient expertise is a transformative generation in healthcare, empowering people to take proactive management of their health through tailor made nutrition interventions. This summary underscores the importance of endured studies and collaboration in figuring out the entire functionality of personalized vitamins in selling health and well-being.
Aug 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-25-5659
Background Older adults with disabling osteoarthritis may be severely impacted by negative emotions and pain, especially if they feel isolated. Review Aims 1) To summarize the research base concerning the presence of depression in older adults suffering from osteoarthritis; 2) To examine the degree to which mitigating loneliness is desirable in this regard and may be helped by one of the many emergent robotic social devices offering companionship; and 3) To provide directives for professionals who work or are likely to work with this population in the future. Methods Reviewed were current publications detailing some aspect of osteoarthritis in the older adult, depression, emergent loneliness and social isolation, and the role and impact of robotic personal ‘friends’ in this realm. Results Collectively, these data reveal efforts to reduce and mitigate different degrees of depression in older adult osteoarthritis cases are needed and that social robots may help quell isolation. Implication Those older adults with osteoarthritis suffering from depression and emergent loneliness and social isolation may benefit from robotic human or pet like contacts and interactions regardless of cause and overall health status, but the key is still loneliness prevention.
Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8681.jcsr-25-5618
Humanity is persistently threatened by global pandemics- exemplified by the Black plague, the Spanish flu, and COVID-19, which reveal a continual absence of concern in real-time prevention. To forecast biological threats in the future and spur proactive human response, the term Global Biological Consciousness (GBC) is introduced.GBC requires an Extended Bioethics, a dynamic ethical framework for conscious management mediated by GBC. This perspective will enable preventive actions and will seek global biological resilience through the algorithmic responsibility of AI and systemic justice, as will be explained in the work. The GBC, through Extended Bioethics, will provide an ability to analyze biological data as it occurs using AI and quantum computing, expect outbreaks before they happen and attenuate their effects, here creates a new ethical contract for all humankind as they co-exist in a biological world.
Jun 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5559
Background HIV status disclosure is a complex process influenced by multiple factors beyond health system support. Understanding these factors is essential for developing comprehensive interventions to promote disclosure and improve HIV prevention and care outcomes. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 10 health facilities offering comprehensive HIV/AIDS care in Mukono district, Uganda. Data was collected from 317 clients through interview-guided questionnaires. Data was entered using EPI data and analyzed using SPSS version 16, including logistic regression to identify factors associated with disclosure. Results Multiple factors influenced HIV status disclosure. Individual factors included knowledge about HIV (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.45-3.78), self-efficacy (OR=3.12, 95% CI: 1.87-5.21), and psychological readiness (OR=2.89, 95% CI: 1.76-4.75). Relationship factors included relationship quality (OR=3.56, 95% CI: 2.13-5.94), communication patterns (OR=2.78, 95% CI: 1.65-4.69), and anticipated partner reaction (OR=4.23, 95% CI: 2.54-7.05). Community factors included perceived stigma (OR=0.34, 95% CI: 0.21-0.56), cultural norms (OR=0.45, 95% CI: 0.27-0.75), and religious beliefs (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.12-3.14). Structural factors included economic dependence (OR=0.38, 95% CI: 0.23-0.63) and access to support services (OR=2.45, 95% CI: 1.47-4.08). Conclusions HIV status disclosure is influenced by a complex interplay of individual, relationship, community, and structural factors. Effective interventions to promote disclosure must address these multiple levels of influence, going beyond health system support to create enabling environments for disclosure at the individual, relationship, community, and structural levels.
May 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-5526.jmid-25-5466
Information on adverse drug event (ADE) assessment and prevention within Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is difficult for clinicians to use and produces wide-ranging results. Challenges include inconsistent ADE and drug product definition and documentation, workflows, terminology standardization, interoperability, and clinical decision support (CDS) to inform clinical decision-making within EHRs. These factors contribute to care issues for clinicians, such as alert fatigue and provider burden for clinicians and medical errors, patient harm, and even death for patients. Clinicians play the primary role in documenting, reviewing, detecting, and preventing ADEs within EHRs. It is essential that clinicians, clinical informaticists, nursing informaticists, pharmacy informaticists, and the health informatics profession understand the current electronic ADE paradigm to advocate for improved detection and prevention of ADEs within EHRs.
Dec 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-24-5358
Background Injuries, particularly unintentional ones, are a neglected public health concern and are preventable or avoidable. Children in urban slums are especially vulnerable due to hazardous living conditions, inadequate supervision, and lack of safe sojourns or play areas. Since these injuries result in seeming spontaneous recovery, appropriate care being initiated by the primary care giver is questionable. Objective To assess the burden of unintentional injuries of unintentional injuries in pre-school going children aged 2-6 years in urban slums of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. To compare the knowledge of the 1st level care post-injury among the primary care givers against standardized prescribed care. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was conducted for over 2 years in urban slums under the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), the capital city of Odisha. A total of 285 children aged 2-6 years, whose mothers consented to participate, were included in the study. Data regarding the type of injury and its management, as well as, associated socio-demographic factors, were collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to derive the burden of unintentional injuries in children. The knowledge of the 1st level of care to be given after the common injuries was assessed among all the primary caregivers to detect the treatment and care gap. Results The majority of primary respondents were mothers aged 21-30 years (82.1%), The frequency of an episode of unintentional injury (occurrence in last 3 months) in the study population was found to be 58%. The most common type of injury reported was skin lacerations or tears, common site being in the upper and lower limbs. Males were more affected as compared to females (54.64 %) The reporting of unintentional injuries among the children was found to have significant association with the occupation of the father. Fathers who were unemployed or working as unskilled labor, their child’s probability of reporting an unintentional injury was found to be high, with p value coming to be statistically significant. Conclusion The study highlights the complex interplay of sociodemographic factors influencing unintentional injuries among children in urban slums and the need to create awareness among the primary caregivers, about the immediate management, so that chronic complications may be averted. It is difficult to avert injury as this age group is agile and nowadays supervision is challenging. Still, the knowledge of management would not just empower the caregiver, but also the growing child, who can attend to their younger siblings or themselves, whenever they get injured next. Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to validate these findings and develop effective prevention strategies.
Sep 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-24-5207
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major challenge to global efforts to control the pandemic, particularly in Nigeria, where hesitancy to other effective vaccines such as polio and measles has been widely reported. Several individual, societal, and structural factors contribute to this behaviour and prevent the effectiveness of COVID-19 prevention efforts. Objectives This study sought to identify the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the seven states of North-Central, Nigeria. Methods A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents using a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO SAGE vaccine hesitancy scale and distributed via social media networks over 8-weeks. Results A total of 1,429 responses met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Among the respondents, 60.7% were males, 47.5% were between the ages of 26 and 45, and 80.1% had postsecondary education. A total of 421 respondents (29.5%) were hesitant and unwilling to receive the vaccine. The reasons for hesitancy were concerns about side effects (37.1%), doubt about the existence of COVID-19 (11.0%), and the perception of time required to receive the vaccine (9.6%). Post-secondary education (AOR: 0.49, 0.36-0.66) and people of the Islamic faith (AOR: 0.68, 0.52-0.90) were found to be associated with lower levels of hesitancy. Conclusion The study found that vaccine hesitancy is a complex problem that is linked with multiple social determinants of health as lower educational attainment, lower income and Christian faith were found to be predictors of vaccine hesitancy. Confidence, Complacency and Convenience factors were expressed by respondents as concerns about side effects, doubt about the existence of COVID-19 and time required to receive the vaccines were the most prominent reasons for unwillingness to receive the vaccine. In order to protect the public health of communities, targeted interventions are required to increase vaccine acceptance by cultivating trust in vaccines, disseminating accurate information, and engaging with community stakeholders including religious groups.
Sep 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-24-5195
The persistence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi) is a challenge especially in regions where typhoid is endemic. Surveillance of circulating genotypes of MDR S. Typhi is crucial in typhoid acute cases and carriers. This study aimed to investigate genotypic diversity of S. Typhi from symptomatic and asymptomatic children in endemic settings in Nairobi, Kenya. Symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals’ ≤ 16 years were recruited at four health facilities and tested for typhoid through stool cultures. The S. Typhi isolates were subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing to investigate multidrug resistance. The MDR S. Typhi isolates’ DNA was extracted and illumina sequenced. Raw reads were de novo assembled and analyzed by pathogen-watch. From the 90 sequenced isolates, 60 (67%) were confirmed to be S. Typhi (sequence Type 1 and genotype 4.3.1). Out of the 60 S. Typhi strains; 39 (65%) had plasmids, from these 38 (97%) had IncHI1 plasmids alone. Out of the 60, 59 (98%) S. Typhi isolates had blaTEM-1D. Point mutations conferring reduced susceptibility to quinolones were detected in 42 (70%) of S. Typhi isolates, from these; 14 (33%) had gyrA S83Y , and 28 (67%) gyrB S464F genes, respectively. This study reports 4.3.1 (H58) as the most dominant S. Typhi genotype responsible for spread of MDR phenotypes carried on IncHI1 plasmids. Presence of MDR S. Typhi with resistance genes such as blaTEM-1Dand reduced susceptibility to ciprofloxacin especially among asymptomatic individuals, reiterates the need for use of typhoid conjugate vaccine among vulnerable children as a control and prevention measure against typhoid.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-24-5040
Objective Hypertensive crisis is an increasingly frequent medical condition in our context. Its management in medical emergencies is a real challenge for physicians. Few data on hypertensive crisis are available in Chad. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological, clinical and prognostic characteristics of hypertensive crisis in the medical emergency department of Reference National Teaching Hospital in N'Djamena. Patient and methods This was a prospective cohort study running from 1er March 2020 to October 31 2020. Patients presenting with a sudden and severe rise in blood pressure (systolic ≥ 180 mmHg and/or diastolic ≥ 110 mmHg) with or without acute target-organs damage, had been consecutively included and followed up over a period of one (01) month. Epidemic and clinical characteristics on admission, and morbidity and mortality parameters during the course of the disease were collected. The Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox model were used to analyze survival and factors associated with death, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results Of the 3978 hypertensive patients admitted to medical emergencies, 252 had a hypertensive crisis, i.e. a prevalence of 6.3%. Two hundred and seventeen (217) patients were included in the study, divided into 149 cases (69%) of hypertensive emergency and 67 cases (31%) of hypertensive hypertensive urgencies. The mean age of the patients was 55.2 ± 14 years (20 and 80 years) and 67% were male. Hypertension was known in 138 patients (64%). At least one complication was present on admission in 69% of patients. Complications were classified as cardiac (50.7%), neurological (38.2%), kidney impairment (46.5%) and ocular (46.1%). The average number of antihypertensive drugs used was 2 ± 0.83 14. Calcium antagonists (86.5%), diuretics (35.5%), converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor antagonists (33.3%) and betablockers (18%) were the pharmacological classes prescribed. Good compliance during follow-up was observed in 124 patients. One-month survival was 84% for all patients, with a 16% mortality rate. Factors associated with death were the duration of hypertension, and the occurrence of cardiovascular, renal dysfunction and ocular disease (p < 0.05). Conclusion Hypertensive crisis is a frequent pathology in sub-Saharan Africa, with high morbidity and mortality. Prevention requires early detection and effective management of hypertension.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2994-6743.ijstd-24-5006
Objectives This study explores the clinical characteristics, associated infections, and management outcomes of syphilis within a specific population over the years 2018 to 2022. With a focus on the frequency, clinical manifestations, and co-infections of syphilis, the research addresses a critical gap in understanding the nuanced dynamics of this sexually transmitted infection and its impact on public health. Methods The study employs a retrospective analysis of data collected from 2018 to 2022, utilizing three key serological tests (Syphilis AB, RPR/VDRL, and TPHA) to characterize syphilis infections within the population. Clinical manifestations and associated infections, including HIV, HBV, HCV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HPV, are systematically assessed. Treatment rates and re-infection patterns are also analyzed, providing a comprehensive overview of syphilis epidemiology within the studied timeframe. Results The frequency of syphilis, particularly indicated by the Syphilis AB test, exhibited a marked increase in 2020, reaching 96%, suggesting a heightened frequency within the population. RPR/VDRL test results demonstrated consistent frequency, emphasizing the persistent presence of active syphilis infections. Clinical manifestations, such as chancre, skin rashes, alopecia syphilitica, and lymphadenopathy, displayed dynamic patterns over the study years. Co-infection rates varied, with fluctuations observed in HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HPV, while HBV and HCV showed infrequent but stable frequency. The management of syphilis cases demonstrated commendable treatment rates, but an increase in re-infection rates in 2021 highlights the need for continued vigilance. Conclusion This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of syphilis epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and associated infections within the studied population. The results offer valuable insights into the dynamic nature of syphilis and its co-infections, informing public health initiatives and interventions. The findings contribute to our understanding of the epidemiological landscape and underscore the importance of sustained efforts in both prevention and treatment to curb the transmission of syphilis and its associated infections. The study, however, calls for continued vigilance and research to address the evolving trends and challenges in syphilis management within the specified population.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-2086.jfs-23-4651
This article has been retracted on April 10, 2025. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2997-2086.jfs-25-5857) Myelomeningocele (MMC), a class of spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year approximately 1,400 babies born in the United States have spina bifida. The disease manifests with the lack of skin and bone covering the caudal part of the spinal cord. The patient developing such a condition often develops lifelong impaired lower limb mobility accompanied by hydrocephalus, and urinary and bowel incontinence. The available interventions include prenatal and postnatal surgery to fuse the dura. Prenatal surgery performed before 26 weeks of gestation reduces the risk of death or the need for ventriculoperitoneal shunting. It also enhanced results on a comprehensive index for mental and motor function. When compared to postnatal surgery, prenatal surgery reduces the manifestation of several secondary outcomes, including the degree of hindbrain herniation seen in the Chiari II malformation. Stem cell therapy for MMC on animal models of chick, ovine, and rodents with reported cases 15/63, 15, and 136, respectively, using human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs), Neural Stem Cells (NSCs), Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) showed significant coverage of MMC defect and slight neurogenesis was also observed. With an understanding of medical literature about in-utero regenerative capacity, it is to be appreciated that placental stem cells surgically seeded within a biocompatible scaffold of the cell patches can play a part in alleviating the spinal cord manifestation associated with MMC. Documented animal studies show that incorporating Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells in prenatal surgery has reported improved neurogenesis and lower limb mobility. In an ovine myelomeningocele model, the development of in-utero myelomeningocele repair with human Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells seeded onto an extracellular matrix (PMSC-ECM) enhances motor findings. The clinical trial for the first stem cell therapy on human subjects known as the “CuRe Trial: Cellular Therapy for In Utero Repair of Myelomeningocele.” is expected to be finished by 2030. So far, the cases undergoing treatment have shown significant leg movement and a greater degree of bowel and urinary control. This FDA-approved clinical trial is envisioned to be the future of treating MMC.
Mar 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-24-4921
Hippocrates trusted foodstuff, maybe medicine, and healthcare management, administration, and costing are important. Nutraceuticals, derived from "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical," cover differing healing areas like “antagonistic-hard, cold and cough, sleep difficulties, digestion, cancer prevention, osteoporosis, blood pressure, cholesterol management, pain relievers, depression, and diabetes”. “Stephen De Felice”, “founder of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, created the term in 1989”.Functional foods, like milk and orange juice, supply health benefits that surpass food, in the way that a better lifestyle and a lower risk of ailment. Nutraceuticals, in another way, involve fortified dairy products like milk that help avoid or cure illnesses and disorders apart from anaemia.Conventional arrangements like Solvents extraction , Soxhlet distillation ,maceration and “Non conventional designs” like ‘Microwave assisted origin’, Ultrasound Assisted Extraction are used to restore the bioactive material from plants for nutraceuticals.”The Indian Health and Dietary Supplement Association” supports drug, nutraceutical, herbaceous, and direct selling energies by categorising them based on chemical arrangement, food type, and conventional arrangement.This paper gives a brief review on nutraceuticals ,its history , its market trend , extraction techniques , benefits and its applications .
Nov 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-21-3909
Background & Objective Changing people’s attitude toward the environment is an important approach to the prevention of environmental damages. The present study aimed to evaluate environmentally responsible health-oriented behaviors in students. Materials and Methods This research was performed on 360 medical students (180 males and 180 females) who were selected via stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a responsible environmental behaviors questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 21 using linear regression analysis and Pearson’s correlation-coefficient. Results The scores of the environmental attitude, environmental knowledge, and environmental behaviors of the participants were estimated at 52.63±5.74, 74.43±5.99, and 103.37±11.51, respectively. An insignificant correlation was observed between the environmental knowledge and environmental behaviors of the students (r=0.07; P=0.20). However, the correlation-coefficient between the environmental attitude and environmental behaviors of the students was positive and significant (r=-0.54; P<0.001). A negative, significant correlation was also denoted between the environmental knowledge and environmental attitude of the students (r=-0.39; P<0.001). Conclusion Despite relatively poor environmental awareness and attitude, the majority of the students had proper environmental behaviors. Therefore, it seems that having an environmentally responsible behavior does not rely on environmental attitude and knowledge. In fact, behaviors influenced by social conditions and structure encourage and facilitate environmental behaviors.
Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862x.jwrh-23-4601
Background The novel coronavirus COVID-19 has created massive challenges to public health worldwide. Pregnant women are an immune-depressed status which makes pregnant women generally more vulnerable to COVID-19 infection and severe illness. The present preventive measure practices have gaps. Therefore, the current study aimed to present accurate and latest information regarding preventive measures for COVID-19 infection among pregnant women. Methods and materials Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on 422 pregnant women in public hospitals in Addis Ababa using a pretested structured questionnaire. Face-to-face interview on pretested and structured questions was conducted to collect the data between January 12 and February 15, 2022. The collected data were entered into Epi data version 4.4.2.2 and exported to SPSS window version 25 for analysis. Descriptive statics and multivariable logistic regression were analyzed. Odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval and p-value ≤ 0.05 were declared statistical significance independent variables. Result A total of 418 pregnant women participated, and the response rate was 99.05%. About 417 (99.8%) pregnant women reported never hearing about COVID-19. Of those who heard about COVID-19, only 49% and 54.3% had good knowledge and had good practice towards COVID-19 infection respectively. Age (26-30yrs (AOR=0.46, 95%CI: 0.014,0.12), no education (AOR=0.23, 95%CI: 0.099-0.52), Primary school (AOR=0.199, 95%CI: 0.104-0.4) and Secondary school (AOR=0.282, 95%CI: 0.14-0.55), divorced (AOR=0.15, 95%CI: 0.065-0.34) and widowed (AOR=0.16, 95%CI: 0.024-1.03)) were factors that associated with knowledge towards COVID-19 infection. Age (30-35yrs (AOR=0.334, 95%: 0.115-0.97) and >36yrs (AOR=0.28, 95%CI: 0.11-0.69)), no education (AOR=0.06, 95%CI: 0.019-0.18), being a civil servant (AOR= 0.28, 95%CI: 0.122-0.66), divorced (AOR=0.042, 95%CI: 0.01-0.18), having >4 family size (AOR=0.334, 95%CI: 0.169-0.66), no previous complication of pregnancy outcomes (AOR=0.019, 95%CI: 0.01-0.061), chronic health problem (AOR=14.66, 95%CI: 0.457-39.4) and two ANC visit (AOR=5.704, 95%CI: 2.41-13.5) were factors that associated with the practice towards COVID-19. Conclusion In this study area, only half of pregnant women had good knowledge and good practice about covid-19 infection prevention measures.
Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-9181.ijnr-23-4658
Brucella species cause a high burden of disease globally, infecting both humans and animals; however, One Health has been under-appreciated in Colombia. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Brucella spp. in two remote indigenous communities from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. These communities live in close contact with their livestock, indicating a potential susceptibility to zoonotic pathogens. The livestock routinely kept by these communities include cattle, small ruminants and pigs, the known hosts of human pathogenic Brucella spp.. A low level of exposure to Brucella spp. was documented, with only one positive participant among 539 participants (0.2%; 95% CI 0.0 – 1.0). Nevertheless, due to the high risk that zoonoses pose, we recommend discussions with the community for the potential establishment of One Health surveillance studies for the early detection and prevention of future zoonotic disease threats.
Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-22-4418
Saudi Arabia is rich in Juniperusprocera Hochst. ex Endl (Cupressaceae) as a medicinal plant. Its known as Arar, its present southwards, KSA. It's used as traditional medicine in the southwestern, KSA. The aim was according to "Saudi Arabian Customs" in using wild-plant extract for treatment and prevention of infectious-pathogens. That was to use Juniperusprocerafrom Ranyah, KSA to eliminate infectious-pathogens that were isolated from patients in the same area. This was the use may reduce the use of chemicals, as well it may be an alternative to chemotherapy. Practice included preparation of wild-plant extract, preparation of infectious-pathogens, interaction to wild-plant extract, and direct total cell count by "Bread Test". Juniperusprocera one crude concentration killed all infectious-pathogens during one day. Lower Juniperusprocera crude extract concentrations eliminated infectious-pathogens within more than one day. The mean number of dead sells / mL of Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus sp, and Streptococcus pyogenes were (84.9 / mL, 87.0 / mL, and 77.8 / mL). The mean percent of dead cells were (80.0%, 82.0%, and 73.4%). The meannumber of dead sells / mL of Salmonella sp., Shigella sp, and Escherichia coli were (72.6 / mL, 76.1 / mL, and 79.0 / mL). The mean percent of dead cells were (68.5%, 71.8%, and 74.5%). The mean number of Candida albicans dead sells / mL was 69.3 / mL, the mean percent of dead cells was 65.4%. It was concluded that found from the results, the Juniperusprocera extract was preferred "Saudi Arabian Customs" to be used in three quarter and one crude concentration, as the infectious-pathogens eliminating within one day. It was recommended that the Juniperusprocera extract will be used for herbal treatment according to "Saudi Arabian Customs". That will be remark and follow-up through the "Official Herbal Treatment Dept.". That will appropriate the doses will estimate for each patient to eliminate and protect against the infectious-pathogens.
Nov 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-22-4354
Background Osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease and one affecting a large number of older adults is not always amenable to the use of passive interventions such as surgery or pharmacologic interventions, but even then, to maximize any desirable intervention approaches, a trustworthy and supportive partnership with the sufferer is strongly indicated. Complicating this process are emerging equity and persistent health literacy issues, as well as post COVID-19 service associated ramifications and persistent disease risks. Aim This mini review was designed to examine what current data reveal as regards the presentation of osteoarthritis and its pathology among the older adult as of the current post COVID-19 pandemic period in 2022, and how health literacy and equity issues are likely implicated in some degree with the disease presentation and its outcomes and will be likely to continue, unless remediated. Methods Peer reviewed published articles on this topic were sought from multiple data bases using the key words- osteoarthritis, health equity, health literacy, prevention, and intervention. Results As in prior years, osteoarthritis continues to induce considerable physical disability and consistently impedes the attainment of a high life quality for many older adults. Although not studied to any degree, attention to health equity and literacy issues appear to pose additional osteoarthritis intervention challenges, especially among the long COVID affected older adults and those with low income and educational levels. Conclusions Many behaviourally oriented and necessary osteoarthritis management approaches and interventions may fail to reduce the functional disability and pain experienced by older people with any form of osteoarthritis to any meaningful degree if a) the provider does not tailor their recommendations in light of possible prevailing health literacy, economic, and educational challenges; b) the patient does not understand how their health behaviours impact joint disease as well as COVID-19 risk status, and are not empowered to undertake these.
Jul 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-22-4204
Introduction Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an element of the biomedical interventions of Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention. The level of protection is strongly correlated to PrEP drug adherence. In Nigeria, the prevalence of HIV among female sex workers (FSW) is 15.5%. The 2020 integrated biological and behavioral surveillance survey did not report on PrEP adherence among FSW. This study therefore assessed the level of adherence to PrEP and its predictors among FSW in South-Western Nigeria. Methodology This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in 2021. Study population were brothel-based FSW at Gambari Ogbomoso and Lagos, Nigeria. A total of 156 FSW participated in the study. Data was collected using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using IBM SPSS Version 25. Results One hundred and forty-nine properly completed questionnaires were analyzed. Ninety-nine respondents (66.4%) have been working for more than 5years as a FSW and 65(43.6%) had initiation of sex work before 18 years of age. Respondents’ sexual behavior showed that 55 (36.9%) of total respondents had consistent use of condom. One hundred and thirty-four respondents (89.9%) had good knowledge of PrEP, 97 (65.1%) had good attitude towards PrEP while 111 (74.5%) had good perception of risk of HIV infection. One hundred and thirty-two (88.6%) reported to be taking PrEP and 119 (79.9%) had good adherence to PrEP. Predictors of adherence to PrEP were educational status, age of commencement of sex work and monthly income. It was found that educated sex workers were 2.67 times more likely to adhere to PrEP (OR=2.67, 95% CI=1.280-5.591, p=0.019). Those who commenced sex work after clocking 18 years of age were 75% times less likely to adhere to PrEP (OR=0.251, 95% CI=0.106-0.597, p=0.001) while those with average monthly income more than #10,000 were 1.65 times more likely to adhere to PrEP (OR=1.65, 95% CI=0.674-4.042, p=0.0275. Discussion and Recommendation The level of adherence to PrEP is considerably high and underscores a positive effect of the efforts of the Government of Nigeria in controlling HIV as a threat by 2030. Further studies would be useful to understand the behavioral factors associated with low adherence to PrEP among FSW who have spent more than 5 years in sex work.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3911
Testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury is an urgent situation which needs a timely and precise diagnosis for prevention of testis damages. Here in we investigated ozone/oxygen therapy in Testicular Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury. For this purpose, animals (rats) were divided to four groups; control, torsion/detortion, torsion/detortion + ozone/oxygen (30 µg/ml) and only ozone/oxygen. Four hours after detorsion, in all groups orchiectomy was done -- for measuring the oxidative stress and mitochondrial toxicity parameters. Also, we preformed analysis of testicular spermatogenesis after 90 days. Our data showed that testicular torsion-detorsion induced significant increase in mitochondrial toxicity and decrease of spermatogenesis, malondialdehyde and GSSG levels were shown. Also, spermatogenesis, a remarkable decrease in malondialdehyde GSSG levels and mitochondrial toxicities were observed when compared with torsion-detorsion group. Obtained results for this research showed that ozone/oxygen therapy enhance antioxidant properties in the spermatogenic cells and protects testes from ischemia-reperfusion injury.
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4189
In Rwanda, CVDs accounts around 14% of all death. Studies on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) would be of great value in helping public health professionals develop targeted programs and measure the effectiveness of interventional programs. The main objective of this study was to analyze the KAP about CVDs among adult patients attending public health centers located in the City of Kigali, Rwanda. A total of 384 adult patients were enrolled in this study. A structured questionnaire was used. Data entry and analysis was done using SPSS version 21. Findings were presented as frequencies and percentages in tables. For determining the KAP-levels, the overall scores were determined for each respondent by adding up the scores through the KAP-related questions. The mean age was 36.4 years, primary school (57.3%), married (62.8%), self-employed (40.9%), and females predominated (61.5%). The knowledge mean score was 14.2 and 76% had high level of knowledge of CVD risks and prevention. The average attitude score for all respondents was 17.6 and 22.9% of the respondents showed negative attitude towards CVDs prevention. Research findings revealed that 36.5 % were not practicing physical activity and exercise. The mean practice score for all respondents was 3.9 and 70% of respondents had negative practice towards CVDs prevention. Poor CVDs prevention practices were observed among the study participants. Therefore, it is necessary to establish more effective educational interventions intended to promote positive health behaviors related CVD prevention
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4167
Objectives This study aims to evaluate the challenges of implementing non-pharmaceutical interventions, assess adherence, accessibility to prevention materials and identify requirements for the control of the spread of COVID-19 among individuals living in a slum-setting in Lagos, Nigeria. Methods This is a five-month cross-sectional study conducted in Makoko, Lagos an urban-slum community. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, living conditions and adherence to COVID-19 prevention strategies were obtained with a semi-structured questionnaire. Logistics-regression model was used to determine factors associated with adherence to COVID-19 preventive measures. Results There was a total of 357 participants who had a mean age of 45.8 ± 12.9 years. Majority were males (62.2%), married (83.8%), self-employed (66.4%), and had secondary education (31.4%). Most participants (93.8%) had no space for self-isolation as majority lived in a one-room apartment (72.8%), shared toilets/kitchen space (64.4 %), had no constant source of water supply (61.9%) and buy water (62.5%). About 98.8% are aware of the COVID-19 pandemic but only 33.9% adhered. Most of the participants disclosed inability to purchase face masks/ hand sanitizers (68.9%). After adjusting for covariates, the ability to afford facemasks/hand sanitizers (P < 0.0001, aOR 6.646; 95% CI: 3.805-11.609), living alone (P < 0.0001, aOR 3.658; 95% CI: 1.267-10.558), and ability to buy water (aOR: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.14-0.50), had greater odds of association with adherence to the non-pharmaceutical COVID-19 preventive measures. Conclusion The lack of isolation space among majority of the respondents calls for concern. Inability to purchase prevention materials is a major factor influencing poor compliance to COVID-19 prevention strategies.
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-21-3994
In this article the author reviews research on high risk factor of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in homosexuals and how lack of awareness & unprotected anal sex contribute substantially to new infections among this population. current HIV prevention efforts by providing insight into the patterns of Indian MSM behavior and sexual partnerships, and the specific cultural, social inequality, the gaps and lack of knowledge and psychological context in which HIV risk is occurring. And the need to develop effective awareness programs for well-functioning prevention of HIV and considerable understanding of the logistical and socio-cultural barriers MSM experience while accessing HIV prevention services. And in last will put light on therapeutic interventions for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, behavioral interventions that are socially and culturally appropriate for the population or community being prioritized and addressing multilevel psychosocial factors, including skills building and strategies to foster self-acceptance and increased social support for MSM. At the same time, prevention messages need to be designed and adapted to the knowledge level and culture of people.
Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-22-4105
Aflatoxins are toxigenic metabolites that are definitely occurring by lethal strains of Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus that commonly dwell and colonize in feed components and various nutritive foodstuffs particularly milk and milk based products. This Review has three main objectives; those are causes of aflatoxin, effects and methods of control in milk and milk products. Drinking of cow milk polluted with aflatoxin may overwhelm immunity and subsidize to stunting in young children, as the young children are not immune-competent during early stage. It has been internationally assessed that aflatoxin is possibly accountable for 30% of the annual cases of liver cancer. Generally, control approaches of aflatoxin can be applied during pre-harvest, cautious management in the time of harvest and postharvest decontamination. Moreover, choosing breed for aflatoxin impervious crop diversities, prevention of aflatoxin production through biological decontamination by microorganisms and their metabolites, rejection of aflatoxin by physical means in addition to inactivation by chemicals are the typical approaches that have been described in different studies. For the reason that cow milk is the most important and principal diet of children, but the risk of exposed to the cancer are more in infants. In addition, according to various investigations it also well thought that young animals are also found to be more vulnerable to aflatoxin than adults. Thus; the contamination of cow milk and milk products by AFM1 should understood as undesirable for young human and animals.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-1101.jhp-21-3937
Bullying in higher education among educators has been researched at the international level and the present evidence strongly exists with need for further research regarding prevention 23456. Strong empirical research has been published on bullying with viewpoints on the damages to leadership, supervision, incivility and abuse experienced by educators 1256. Bullying in higher educational organizations has been observed with antecedents of power, “wanting to get ahead”, favoritism, and other precursors and challenges of incivility leading to bullying 1234. Workplace bullying antecedents and effects, describe the possible experiences, background, and precursors, that would reveal workplace bullying 12. Bullying in higher academia can result from behaviours and experiences that show humiliation, overtalking others, aggression, exclusion of others, disengagement of employees, among other subtle ways of silencing others 12347. It is therefore still important that educators continue to have a positive, purposeful and productive research driven approach towards solutions for preventing bullying in educational organizations.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-21-3908
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a menace in the global public health system. According to GLOBOCAN reports, colorectal cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in the world with more than 1.9 million cases and 935,000 deaths in 2020 alone. Diet plays a key role in exposing humans to environmental carcinogens and anti-carcinogens, consequently mitigating or aiding in the development of various cancers. CRC is most prevalent in western countries with a high intake of saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and processed meat. CRC was an extremely rare disease in Africa some decades ago, but the situation is fast changing. The traditional African diet consists of leafy, roots and cruciferous vegetables, fruits, roots, tubers and plantains, legumes, whole grains, and spices, all of which have been shown to possess protective effects against CRC. However, the effect of urbanization has contributed to the shift of dietary choices among the African population to consuming more ultra-processed foods with high levels of unhealthy components that have originated from colorectal cancer prevalent regions. This review evaluates the current nutritional challenges of the African diet to colorectal cancer and the potential roles of the traditional African diets and lifestyle modification in the prevention and management of colorectal cancer.
Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-21-3864
This paper wishes to address the main concerns of food patterns and food consumption during the epidemic with quantitative analysis from various regions of Tamil Nadu. It was noted that it is more important than natural foods. The current epidemic had a profound effect on the humankind, recognizing the importance of staying healthy is the crucial aspect. In time, further research was conducted on the diet of the Indian subcontinent. Everyone should know about the importance of health and how nutrition contributes to the health and equality of people around the world. The main purpose of this study was to identify the importance of good nutrition and disease prevention.
Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-8572.joa-21-3913
This article has been retracted on 20 January 2022. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2379-8572.joa-25-5850) Back ground and Objectives Tonsillectomy is the most common surgical procedure in specialty of otorhinolaryngology. Therefore there are frequent premises regarding this procedure to be improved from different aspects, indications, time of surgery, techniques, safety measures, and postoperative care. Hence the tonsils and peritonsillar tissues are highly vascular zone that supplied by direct branches of external carotid artery thus the post-tonsillectomy bleeding remains one of significant issues in relation to this widely performed procedure. The post-tonsillectomy bleeding needs frequently to be postulated for its incidence, prevalence, etiology, predisposing factors, management and prevention. This subject constitutes one of most risky aspects that increase wariness of the surgeons regarding this commonly conducted procedure. Although there are huge numbers of presentative literatures coming from American as well as western institutes that tried to put guidelines for purpose of prevention and management of post-tonsillectomy bleeding but broadly at our middle-east region and locally at our Libyan society we found for some extent difficulties to apply all these guidelines. For this reason this issue has been take the wider spectrum of ENT surgeons’ concentration, discussions, and researches. Therefore this study was conducted prospectively and for long time to confirm the possible predisposing factors that could be responsible for increasing the risk of post-tonsillectomy bleeding at our region and in the same time to illustrate the concluded recommendations to prevent the occurrence of this important complication. Patients and Methods 2880 patients aged from 8 months to 85 years presented at ENT department-AL-hawari ENT and urology teaching center- Benghazi-city – Libya as well as AL-thowra central teaching hospital and AL-tarahom private center – Elbyda city – Libya at period in between September 2003 to March 2015 as cases of chronic adeno-tonsillitis and solitary acute as well as chronic related palatine tonsillar disease with variable patterns of indications for tonsillectomy namely snoring and apnea attacks, recurrent attacks of acute tonsillitis, persistent otitis media with effusion, recurrent attacks of acute suppurative otitis media, failure to thrive, recurrent attacks of chest infection, mal-occlusive dental deformity, unilateral enlarged tonsils, post-traumatic avulsed tonsils, history of quinsy abscess and persistent halitosis. All patients were assessed intra-operatively and post-operatively too for any evidences of primary, reactionary, or secondary hemorrhage in relation to wide spectrum of factors as patient's demographic, medical, and socio-habitual factors, in addition to technical as well as post-operative care factors. Results This presenting study confirmed that the most common type of post-tonsillectomy bleeding was the secondary variety (71%) as compared to primary (22%) and reactionary (7%) among all presented post-tonsillectomy bleeding cases. Although through this presenting serial study there were multifactorial pre-dispositions elucidated for secondary post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage but as general poor post-operative care can be considered as the cornerstone for the pathogenesis of this significantly raised incidence of secondary post-tonsillectomy bleeding this may be in form of inadequate patient's hydration and nutritional supply (47%), poor patient's antibiotic compliance (23%), and child's maternal negligence (19%). The time of surgery was found to be another important pre-disposing factor for post-tonsillectomy bleeding, it was postulated that the incidence of reactionary as well as secondary post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage significantly increased at summer and autumn seasons (69%) as compared to other seasons. The place of surgery was another interesting proposed studied factor among this serial presentation it was observed that the incidence of post-tonsillectomy bleeding among patients who operated at AL-hawari ENT and urology teaching center-Benghazi-city significantly higher (63%) than that among cases who interfered at AL-thowra central teaching hospital and AL-tarahom private center – Elbyda city. Conclusion Generally speaking, post-tonsillectomy bleeding is considered as one of important issues in ENT and one of significant post-tonsillectomy complications which may create a critical morbidity that may rarely extend to post-operative mortality. Hence the most common pattern of post-tonsillectomy bleeding is the secondary type; however this type of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage is pre-disposed and induced by many factors. Most of these factors are treatable and curable thus the prophylaxis against this significant complication can be achievable.
Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3758
“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
Apr 2021
Background COVID-19 as an infectious disease, and deadly biological crisis, threatens the bio-psycho-social- spiritual health of the people. Spiritual health from the perspective of Islam, means having a sound heart, living in the present time with sense of peace, security, patience and gratitude, safe from the fear and anxiety of future, grief and regret for the past events. It affects other dimension of health. This study was conducted to investigate the spiritual health services in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic in a Muslim society. Methods This qualitative study was conducted from March 1, 2020 to the end of May 2020 in Tehran by using the Schwartz and Kim's hybrid model concept analysis with a deductive / inductive analysis approach, in three stages: 1- Theoretical review of religious and scientific evidence, 2- Field research 3- Final analysis. Data collection was done in hospitals and hospices by semi-structured interviews, taking notes, websites and social networks search. Data were analyzed by "Contractual Content Analysis Method". Results Despite the fact that spiritual health services (spiritual care and counseling) are not taught in Iranian universities, but in this biological crisis, spiritual health services, based on religious beliefs of health system employees were implemented. The Muslims’ belief in divine test, healing power of God, helping the people as highest worship, aroused spiritual awakening and enthusiasm in the health care team. Spiritual health services at prevention levels were provided with the aim of helping the patient, family and clients, in an inter-professional model based on the jurisprudential rules derived from the religious evidences (Verses and Hadiths), in line with holistic approach, community-based care, spiritual self-care, home-care, family participation. The involvement of non-specialists in the provision of medical services was prevented. According to, preserving the human dignity in Islam, Islamic rituals were performed by the treatment team and volunteer clerics for dying and dead people. Conclusion Considering the impact of religious spirituality on Muslims’ lifestyle and health behaviors, it seems that the use of Islamic health guidelines can improve the quality of health care services and help improve the spiritual health of people in biological crises.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-21-3772
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin, which widely used for the prevention and treatment rickets, osteoporosis, arthritis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, autoimmune disease, dementia, glucose intolerance, etc. The impact of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on the structural properties and the isotopic abundance ratio of cholecalciferol were evaluated using LC-MS and GC-MS spectroscopy. The test sample cholecalciferol was divided into control and treated parts. Only, the treated cholecalciferol was received the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Dahryn Trivedi. The LC-MS spectra of both the samples at retention time (Rt) ~22 minutes exhibited the mass of the molecular ion peak at m/z 385.25 (calcd for C27H45O+, 385.35). The LC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM in the treated cholecalciferol was increased by 0.74% compared with the control sample. But, the GC-MS based isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM and PM+2/PM in the treated cholecalciferol was significantly increased by 66.39% and 62.69%, respectively compared with the control sample. Hence,13C, 2H, 17O, and 18O contributions from C27H44O+ to m/z 386 and 387 in the treated cholecalciferol were significantly increased compared with the control sample. The isotopic abundance ratios of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 13C/12C or 17O/16O) and PM+2/PM (18O/16O) in the treated cholecalciferol were significantly increased as compared to the control sample. The increased isotopic composition of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treated cholecalciferol might have altered the neutron to proton ratio in the nucleus via the possible mediation of neutrino. The increased isotopic abundance ratio of the treated cholecalciferol may increase the intra-atomic bond strength, increase its stability. The new form of cholecalciferol would be better designing novel pharmaceutical formulations that might be more stable and more efficacious for the prevention and treatment of various diseases such as vitamin D deficiency, rickets, osteoporosis, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, mental disorders, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, infections, influenza, cognitive impairment in older adults, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, autoimmune disease, dementia, glucose intolerance, multiple sclerosis, etc.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-21-3773
L-tryptophan is an essential α-amino acid, necessary for the normal growth in newborns, nitrogen balance in adults, protein synthesis, precursor of serotonin, melatonin, niacin, and albeit inefficiently in human, also the precursor of indole alkaloids and auxins in plants. This current study was designed to investigate the impact of the Trivedi Effect®-Biofield Energy Healing Treatment (Blessing) on the structural properties and the isotopic abundance ratio of L-tryptophan using LC-MS analytical technique. L-tryptophan sample was divided into two parts, one part of L-tryptophan was considered as the control sample (no Biofield Energy Treatment was provided), while the second part was treated with the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment/Blessing remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Dahryn Trivedi and termed as the treated sample. The mass spectra of both the control and treated samples with respect to the chromatographic peak at retention time (Rt) 2.1 minutes exhibited the mass of the molecular ion peak adduct with hydrogen ion at m/z 205.08 (calcd for C11H13N2O2+, 205.1), along with low molecular fragmented mass peaks at m/z 188, 159, and 102 for C11H12N2O2+, C10H11N2+, and C8H6+, respectively were also observed. The isotopic abundance ratio of PM+1/PM (2H/1H or 13C/12C or 15N/14Nor17O/16O) in the treated L-tryptophan was significantly increased by 35.93% compared with the control sample. Hence,the 13C, 2H, 15N, and 17O contributions from C11H13N2O2+ to m/z 206.08 in the treated L-tryptophan was significantly increased compared to the control sample. It could be hypothesized that the changes in the isotopic abundance and mass peak intensities due to the modification in nuclei possibly through the interference of neutrino particles using the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment. The Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed L-tryptophan with increased stable isotopic abundance ratio might have changed the physicochemical properties with higher force constant in the molecule. The new form of treated L-tryptophan would be a better and more stable in the supplements, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical formulations, which would be advantageous for the prevention and treatment of pellagra, depression, kynurenine. It could also maintain the normal label of tryptophan and avoid increase of its metabolite, lower the neurotoxin and a metabotoxin behavior, glutaric aciduria type I (glutaric acidemia type I) disorder, eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS), incurable and sometimes fatal flu-like neurological condition, etc. As tryptophan is the precursor for the plant hormones like indole alkaloids and auxins, hence, this treated L-tryptophan would be advantageous for the improvement of yield, productivity, and quality of crops and other plants.
Mar 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-21-3742
Cardiovascular disease is actually a major cause of mortality, illness and hospitalization worldwide. Several risk factors have been identified that are strongly associated with the development of cardiovascular disease. Public prevention strategies have relied predominately on managing environmental factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease, such as obesity, smoking and lack of exercise. The understanding of the role of genetics in cardiovascular disease development has become much more important to link genetics with the onset of disease and response to therapy. This seeks to examine how genes can predispose individuals to cardiovascular disease and how this knowledge might be applied to more comprehensive preventive strategies in the future. In addition, the review explores possibilities for genetics in cardiovascular disease treatment, particularly through the use of identified driver genes and gene therapy. To fully understand the biological implications of these associations, there is a need to relate them to the exquisite, multilayered regulation of protein expression and regulatory elements, mutation, microRNAs and epigenetics. Understanding how the information contained in the DNA relates to the operation of these regulatory layers will allow us not only to better predict the development of cardiovascular disease but also to develop more effective therapies.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3752
Background Falls injuries continue to contribute to numerous premature deaths as well as high disability levels, and excess morbidity rates among older adults, worldwide. But can vitamin D account for excess falls injuries among older adults? This review specifically focuses on what is known about vitamin D in the context of postural stability or balance control, both fairly consistent independent predictors of falls among older adults. Methods and Procedures Drawn largely from a review of current relevant English language peer reviewed research publications published over the last 10 years detailing the relationship between vitamin D levels and balance control among the elderly, as this relates to falls injuries, evidence for any emerging consensus on this controversial topic was sought. Used to conduct the search were various key word combinations including: falls injuries and older adults, vitamin D or vitamin D deficiency and balance or postural control. The database used predominantly to provide input into this largely descriptive assessment and narrative overview was PUBMED. Results The prevailing data show falls injuries currently constitute a widespread costly major impediment to successful aging and longevity for many older adults, despite numerous efforts to prevent this disabling set of events over the past two to three decades. However, no consistent association appears to exist between the variables of vitamin D, falls, and balance attributes in the older population-despite years of research, regardless of study approach, and a strong rationale for hypothesizing a clinically meaningful relationahip. Conclusion It is not possible to arrive at any universal recommendation concerning the value of vitamin D supplementation as regards its possible influence on balance capacity among older adults in the realm of falls prevention efforts, as has been frequently proposed. However, until more definitive research is conducted, there still appears sufficient justification for considering the screening of vulnerable aging adults for serum vitamin D levels, along with balance impairments, and intervening as required in the case of deficits in either or both of these possible falls determinants.
Feb 2021
Introduction Risk reduction intervention is meant to provide enhanced and desirable interventions for HIV prevention among adolescents especially the in-school. Adolescents have been identified as the most vulnerable groups that can easily acquire human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Therefore, adolescents are the appropriate target for HIV prevention efforts. Most interventions for adolescents focus on providing AIDS-related education with the assumption that improving knowledge would enable adolescents to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. Numerous studies have shown that using class-room education alone is insufficient in reducing adolescents’ risky sexual behaviours. Therefore, this study used role-plays and peer facilitation for the study. Materials and Method The study used role-play and peer facilitation for the intervention strategy. The theme of the role-play was ‘My Future is My Choice’ (MFMC) intervention which was aimed to reduce HIV risk behaviours among sexually inexperienced adolescents. The role-play was carried out by 4 peer leaders who were trained in the theoretical framework of role-plays and peer facilitation by a consultant. With mastery and experience they carried out the role play in a regular classroom section for over 3 class periods, co-facilitated with the assistance of a volunteer teacher. A unique feature of this intervention was the dual focus on strategies that influenced both individual risk factors (i.e., attitudes, behavioural skills) and social environments (e.g., peer resources). A school was chosen by simple random sampling for the intervention. In the school chosen, a total sample of 65 students in senior secondary classes 2&3 ( SS2&3) were included in the study. These were the students considered to be sexually active who can respond to the questions in the questionnaire. Self-administered pre-and post-questionnaire were completed by the students. The results were analysed using frequency tables, descriptive and inferential statistics. Results The students studied were between the ages of 13-18 years. There was evidence that the role play ‘My Future is My Choice’ (MFMC) intervention created positive effects on reduction of HIV risk behaviours among the sexually inexperienced participants aged 13–18. Perceptions on methods of preventing risk reduction behaviours were also positively impacted by the intervention as 12(18.5%) and 34(52.3 %) of the respondents realized after post- intervention that having sex with someone outside marriage and being transfused with infected blood respectively Will constitute risk to HIV infection. Conclusion The role play which used the theme ‘My Future is My Choice’ (MFMC) intervention provided safer choices for reducing one or more measures of sexual risk behaviours among the sexual inexperienced respondents. It created the opportunity for the students to recognize that engaging in unprotected sex constitutes high risk for HIV, other sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-2855.jan-21-3745
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) is used nowadays in nutraceuticals regarding the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency and associated diseases. This study was done to analyse the effect of the Trivedi Effect® - Energy of Consciousness Treatment on the physicochemical, thermal, and spectral properties of cholecalciferol using PSA, PXRD, DSC, TGA/DTG, FT-IR, and UV-Vis analysis. For this study, the cholecalciferol sample was divided into control/ untreated and Biofield Energy Treated vitamin D3. The treated vitamin D3 sample received Biofield Energy Treatment (the Trivedi Effect®) remotely for ~3 minutes by Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi, who was located in the USA, while the test samples were located in the research laboratory in India. The treated sample was designated as the Biofield Energy Treated sample. The PSA analysis showed that the particle size values at d10, d50, d90, and D(4, 3) of the treated sample were significantly decreased by 5.80%, 16.49%, 17.52%, and 16.23%, respectively compared to the control sample. However, the specific surface area of the treated cholecalciferol was significantly increased by 7.26% compared to the control sample. Besides, the PXRD analysis revealed that the relative intensities regarding the characteristic diffraction peaks in the treated sample were significantly altered from -42.56% to 22.42%, along with -41.69% to 72.71% alterations in the crystallite sizes, compared with the control sample. Also, the treated sample showed 2.80% decrease in the average crystallite size. The DSC analysis showed a slight increase (0.24%) in the melting point of the treated sample along with 3.68% increase in the latent heat of fusion (ΔH) compared to the control sample. Also, the decomposition temperature of the treated sample was decreased by 0.29%, whereas the ΔH was increased by 5.79%, compared to the control sample. Moreover, the TGA/DTG analysis revealed the significant decrease in weight loss in the 1st and 3rd step of degradation of the treated sample by 18.58% and 89.81%, respectively, along with 1.83% increase in the maximum thermal degradation temperature compared with the control sample. Overall, the thermal stability of the treated cholecalciferol sample was observed to be increased in comparison to the control sample. Thus, the Trivedi Effect® might be used to produce a different polymorph of cholecalciferol, which possesses the improved qualities in terms of appearance, dissolution, absorption, bioavailability, and thermal stability as compared with the untreated sample. Thus, the Biofield Energy Treated cholecalciferol might be used in designing of better nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations possessing improved therapeutic response regarding the treatment of vitamin D deficiency associated diseases.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3725
This brief report article is a retrospective, descriptive, first-person account of following-up on a difficult-to-find client of an HIV/AIDS community-based pre-post intervention and disease prevention Research and Demonstration project in Houston, TX. Through the story about the personal journey of searching for the client, the author experiences an epiphany, especially in light of current events. Specifically, as opposed to social distancing and disconnection, public health disease prevention probably would be better served through leveraging the powerful and positive natural human features of social connectivity and closeness.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3704
The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant potential of Biofield Energy Healing (the Trivedi Effect®) based test formulation using TNBS-induced colitis animal model. Each ingredient of the test formulation was divided into two parts. One part was denoted as the control without any Biofield Energy Treatment, while the other part was treated with Biofield Energy Treatment by Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and defined as the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation. The colon tissue was used for the estimation of anti-oxidation activity for catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPO) product, myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) using standard procedure. The antioxidant results showed that the CAT level was significantly increased by 95.4% (p≤0.001), 72.3%, 47.6%, and 13.9% in the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (G5), Biofield treatment per se to animals (-15 days)(G6), Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals plus Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (-15 day) (G8), and Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals plus untreated test formulation (G9) groups, respectively as compared to the untreated test formulation group (G4). Further, colon GSH activity was found to be significantly increased by 23.2% (p≤0.05) 15.4%, and 15.5%, in G5, G6, and G9 groups, respectively with respect to G2 group. In addition, colon LPO activity data suggested that it was decreased by 12%, 17%, 18%, and 19.1% in G5, G6, Biofield Energy Treated test formulation (-15 day) (G7), and G8 groups, respectively, as compared with the G2 group. The level of MPO showed a significant (p≤0.001) reduced level by 27.9%, 22%, 14.5%, 16.6%, and 25.3% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared with the G2 group. The level of colon SOD was increased by 16.7% and 14.2% in the G5 and G9 groups, respectively as compared with the untreated test formulation, G4 group. Colon GPx level was increased by 177.6%, 71.4%, 71.4%, 161.2%, and 114.3% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared with the G2 group. Thus, it can be concluded that the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing based test formulation and Biofield Energy per se has significant colon anti-oxidation profile, which can be used to improve many autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, stress management and prevention, and anti-aging by improving overall health.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-0904.ijoe-21-3727
Background and Purpose Providing health care is the basic right of people(1). Diagnostic radiology is one of the main procedures in health care services and proper benefiting from this technology is brought only under well planning and management(1). Supervision of the available condition and its comparison with the recommended standards is a key role in assessing assurance from the benefit of these instruments (2). Data show that more than 80% of patients referring to these hospitals need radiology image (3).Improper service causes repetition of radiography and even wrong diagnosis, as a results threatening health of the patients (3) lack of protective barrier leads to the exposure of the staff to X-ray which is obviously carcinogen us (4). It happens that the instruments are not working properly, like of symmetry in X-ray field, defects in collimators, lack of adjusting ray field and X-ray, low quality or defective developing machine, lack of proper protective barrier, using low quality film and drugs, lack of protective barrier for children, all of which cause severe hazards for the patients and staff (4). Materials and Methods The crucial aim of medical services is to provide the public with their needs which are very important. The sensitivity of such services is to such an extent that in case of lack of care, the hazards are too high. In evaluation of health services, the first thing is to evaluate the device used. Methods, efficiency, profits and their combination for prevention and eradication of diseases are also important. Therefore to gain this goal, it is necessary the obtain results comparable with recommended standards. The purpose of this study was to access the conditions of radiology units at Mazandaran University hospitals and compare them with the standards of ICRU NCRP and ICRP. Radiology unit is the most expensive section of any hospital for its instruments, manpower and space provided. In a study conducted in 51centers on radiology staff, radiography room and protective barrier, ray leakage, the outcome were 89%, 82%, 77% and 37% respectively. It was found that the condition of these centers regarding the protective barriers is very unsuitable due to unawareness of the leakage (5, 6).Considering the mentioned necessities, in this study, the condition of radiography centers affiliated to the Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences was studied for the type and the rate of problem, in order to provide a proper solving method. Results Data were collected through, observation, interviewing and filling questionnaire. Results show that, the situations of the radiology units are for from international standard, to such an extent that it is matched clout 50%. Conclusion The results showed that, none of the dark rooms are standard, and do not have proper alarm signal. In 63% of these units there no tiling system about staff protection from radiation. Defects in radiography room, protective barrier and lack looking rays were 60%, 51% and 47% respectively. Referring to the obtained data, periodic supervision, and obeying of the standards are necessary.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3720
Because of the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, supply chain management performance seems to be struggling. The purpose of this paper is to examine a variety of critical factors related to the application of contingency theory to determine its feasibility in preventing future supply chain bottlenecks. The study reviewed current online news reports, previous research on contingency theory, as well as strategic and structural contingency theories. This paper also systematically reviewed several global supply chain management and strategic decision-making studies in an effort to promote a new strategy. The findings indicated that the need for mass production of products within the United States, as well as within trading partners, is necessary to prevent additional Covid-19 related supply chain gaps. The paper noted that in many instances, the United States has become dependent on foreign products, where the prevention of future supply chain gaps requires the United States restore its manufacturing prowess.
Jan 2021
Annotation On the basis of 40 years of work on the treatment of 415 patients with gastroenterocolitis clinic, the author revealed the presence of refluxes due to anatomical defects of the Bauhinia valve (its failure) and the duodenum (chronic duodenal obstruction) at all levels of the gastrointestinal tract. After surgical correction of these anatomical breakdowns, the author states a significant improvement in all indicators of the state of both the digestive system and some extraintestinal manifestations, possibly the onset of precancer. The results obtained allowed the author to conclude that there are no "functional" disorders, this is only the level of our knowledge. Operations have been developed to correct the failure of the Bauhinia flap, intraoperative prevention of refluxes, and indications for methods of correcting chronic disorders of duodenal patency.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3383
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
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-20-3611
Objective To understand the present status of high blood pressure in Jiangxi adults including the prevalence rate, overall awareness, and hypertension treatment. Methods a total of 7,200 adult participants (over 18 years old) lived in Jiangxi were recruited using a stratified sampling method. Blood pressure was measured for all the participants and a questionnaire survey was conducted. A 24-hour urine sample was also collected to understand urine sodium and potassium levels. Results Our findings revealed that the measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were 125.9 mmHg (95% CI, 124.85-126.95) and 79.2 mm Hg (95% CI, 78.15-80.25). The prevalence of hypertension among the enrolled adults was 27.43% (95% CI, 26.38%–28.48%). Among the affected participants, less than 30% of them (95% CI) were aware of their hypertension condition, and only 28.56% (95% CI) were under anti-hypertension medications. The mean salt intake converted from urinary sodium was 10.92±4.07 g and the mean±SD of 24-h urinary sodium and potassium excretion were 185.51±65.44 mmol and 25.98±9.16 mmol, respectively. The high-salt condiments was determined to be the main source of sodium in the region. Conclusion Findings from this study form the baseline information to understand the hypertension condition in the region and indicate a possible solution for hypertension prevention through avoiding high-salt condiments.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3471
Spices have been frequently added to foods since ancient times, not only to enhance the taste but also as preservatives and medicinal agents. Their usage may be of concern due to possible contamination during processing and handling. The aim of this study was to investigate the physicochemical properties and heavy metals concentrations in some indigenous spices sold at two main markets namely Bodija and Apata markets in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. A total of eight commonly consumed spices were purposely analyzed for their proximate and mineral composition, physicochemical properties and anti-nutrients contents. Proximate analyses showed that the spices to contained (fresh matter ‘As consumed’) moisture content ranging from 11.74g in thyme to 59.36g/100g in scent leaves. Crude protein, fat, fibre, ash and carbohydrate contents ranged between 3.72 – 15.07g, 1.31 – 8.28g, 1.96 – 11.38g, 1.11 – 7.81g, and 17.80 – 50.77g/100g sample, respectively. All the spices contained high levels of potassium (176.3 – 739.6 mg), sodium (60.6 – 317 mg), calcium (78.5 – 423.9 mg), magnesium (82 – 322.1 mg) and iron (5.78 – 20.10 mg), but low levels of heavy metals – copper (0.17 – 0.68 mg), and manganese (0.32 – 1.05 mg)/100g respectively. Flavonoid was the most abundant phytochemical, while terpene was the least phytochemical in all the samples. The samples had very low concentrations of anti-nutrients, and could pose no threat to human health, as their values were within the regulatory standard. The antioxidants and phytochemicals in the spices can help in building up immunity and prevention of non-communicable diseases, hence, their consumption should be encouraged.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3426
The COVID-19 pandemic has killed more than 400 thousand and infected more than 7 million people in the whole world as of 06/10/2020. Many open systems, such as educations, transportations, entertainments, sports or foods, have been completely or partially locked down in many regions of the world to prevent COVID-19 spreading. Therefore, how to reopen all of the open systems after the shutdown has become a world urgent issue. Evidences of COIVD-19 have showed: person-to-person transmission occurs among close contacts; virus droplets (or aerosols) play an important role in the transmission; people can prevent COVID-19 by measures of mask-wearing or maintaining social distancing. However, how these measures work to prevent COVID-19 is still not clear in a perspective of biomedical Infophysics. In this study, (1) we think the transmission of infection can be accomplished by real or virtual person; (2) we define a virtual person as ghost airflow, a term we coin to describe virus droplets (or aerosols) that are initially generated by human carriers and remain in the air to be transmitted. These ghost airflows are as dangerous as the real virus carriers particularly in enclosed (confined) environments; (3) we propose biomedical infophysical models (BMIPM) of filtering the ghost airflows by mask-wearing and maintaining social distancing, to help people to understand the filtering mechanisms and willingly follow the guidelines of preventing covid-19, and therefore to successfully reopen all of the open systems after the shutdowns (lockdowns) and (or) to avoid the shutdowns (lockdowns) in future epidemics or pandemics. Significantly, we compare the prevention efficiencies of COVID-19 between people who are accustomed and not accustomed to masks based on the published WHO, CDC or NHC pandemic data. The compared results support our models in this investigation. Coronaviruses easily survive and have high toxicity, in dirty, wet and cold environments, and the air pollution is linked with higher COVID-19 death rates. The dingy environments and air-conditioning, freezing systems sufficiently provide such necessary dirty, wet and cold conditions and polluted airflows to exacerbate the mortality rate of COVID-19. Therefore, we strongly suggest: to use air conditioners as less as possible, to turn the wind levels as low as possible and to clean (disinfecting) the air-conditioning systems (filters and channels) and environments as frequent as possible.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-20-3297
A concise overview synthesizes early knowledge on COVID‑19 in pediatrics, covering transmission, clinical spectrum, diagnostics, and prevention, and pointing to priorities for longitudinal study.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3175
Local Nigerian men have been using AuriculariaPolytricha as a treatment for sexual dysfunction without supporting evidence from scientific experiments. This study was to investigate the effect of ethanolic extract of A. Polytricha on testicular DNA expression and some oxidative stress markers using STZ-Induced diabetic rats as a model. The experiment included six groups, Group A (Normal Control, treated with normal saline), Group B (treated with 65mg/kg.bw of STZ), Groups C, D, and E (treated with 250mg/kg.bw, 500mg/kg.bw, 1000mg/kg.bw AP after inducing diabetics), and Group F (treated with 40mg/kg.bw metformin after inducing diabetics). The experiment lasted for 35 days. After termination of the experiment, Fuelgen nuclear reaction was used for DNA demonstration to assess testicular DNA distribution while serum Superoxide Dimutase (SOD), Catalase and Melondialdehyde where evaluated using reagent based antioxidant enzyme assay. Results reveals that SOD and Melondialdehyde activities were remarkably (p<0.05) higher in diabetic control animals when compared with the normal control group. Values in Groups C, D and F that were administered with 250, 500mg/kg.bw A. polytricha and metformin respectively were also significantly (p<0.05) increased when compared with the normal control group. However, diabetic animals placed on 1000mg/kg.bw A. polytrichadid not show any statistical significance in comparison with normal control group but was remarkably (p<0.01) decreased when compared to the diabetic group that received low dose A. polytricha, an indication that the reversal is dose dependent. Catalase concentration in diabetic control animals was remarkably (p<0.05) higher when compared to the normal control but was not significantly (p<0.05) different in groups D (DM+500mg/kg.bw A. polytricha) and E (DM+1000mg/kg.bw A. polytricha) when compared with the normal control group. Diabetic control animals showed reduced magenta colour intensity of DNA and increased clustering and cross linking of DNA strands when compared with the normal control. However the degree of cross link in DNA strands was reduced in the diabetic animals placed on 1000mg/kg.bw A. polytrichawhen compared with the diabetic control group. Reversal in DNA damage and values of serum oxidative stress markers following administration of graded doses of A. polytricha could be attributed to essential phytochemical and therapeutic constituents in A. polytricha like polyphenol and flavonoid which can be found useful in prevention and treatment of diabetes induced testicular dysfunction. In summary, AP can contribute to a reversal in DNA damage and levels of serum oxidative stress markers in treating diabetes-induced testicular dysfunction.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-20-3180
Background Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death world-wide. There is a steady increase in incidence over the past four decades in developing countries. This has been partly attributed to increasingly low intake of vegetables among other causes. Aims Therefore this study aims to evaluate the protective effect of aqueous extract of Ocimumgratissimum (OG) leaves (a staple vegetable) on experimental model of colon carcinogenesis induced with 1, 2 Dimethylhydrazine (DMH). This is compared with celecoxib (a cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor) which is used in the chemoprevention of colon cancer. Methods Sixty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups: A to F, n=10. Group A was the normal control, Group B was given only DMH weekly for 16 weeks,Groups C, D and E were given graded doses of OG for two weeks prior to cancer induction by DMH. After which both OG and DMH were given for 16weeks. Group F received celecoxib daily for two weeks prior to cancer induction. Colonic wall was analysed grossly, histologically and biochemically. The induced lesions were staged investigated and staged using Duke’s Staging method. Results The result showed tumour incidence in groups B and C while no evidence of primary colonic tumour was observed in groups A, D, E and F. There was a dose dependent increase in the goblet cell count in the groups treated with OG with group E being statistically higher than group F. There was a significant reduction in collagen staining intensity (F = 129.74, p < 0.0001) for the colonic wall in group B when compared to other groups. There was a decreased nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio in groups C, D, E and F when compared to group B. There was a significant increase in the concentration of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2in group B when compared to other groups D, E and F. Conclusion In conclusion, this research showed a protective effect of Ocimumgratissimum leaves on 1, 2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer which further corroborated its ethno-medicinal use.
Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-19-2983
Although it is a vaccine-preventable disease, tetanus is frequently found in sub-Saharan Africa. Because of its rarity, this disease poses two problems for doctors of the 21st century: to make early diagnosis in order to refer patients to appropriate care structures, and to continue to ensure correct prevention of an affection that few current doctors have met. In it generalized form, the diagnosis of tetanus is easy, but when the beginning is localized, tetanus can be change with other diseases leading to a diagnostic wandering and a delay of adequate management. We report a case of tetanus in an 18-year-old male, who was received for neck pain and stiffness of the neck with a positive Kernig sign associated to fever since 48 hours. Initially treated for meningitis, the patient will develop at day 3 of hospitalization, the signs of generalized tetanus which led to evoked the diagnosis of tetanus. This diagnosis was reinforced by the notion of a rusty nail injury to the soles of the right foot 3 weeks before hospitalization and the absence of anti-tetanus vaccination. After using tetanus serum and vaccination with antibiotics (Metronidazole and Penicillin) and Diazepam in association with stripping of the wound under the foot, the patient was improved. This case illustrates that any neurological sign with the first trismus must evoke until proof of the contrary, a tetanus especially in case of association with a wound even if the immunization schedule is up to date.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-19-2770
Introduction In France 33% of patients didn’t take care of hepatitis C because there were no diagnosed. Drug injection was main contamination route of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in France. French guidelines were to treat all inmates and drug users, even fibrosis level. Access of HCV screening, care and treatment in drugs users, prisoners and homeless was low in France. They were considered as difficult to treat populations. All these patients need specific support. Hepatitis Mobile Team (HMT) was created in July 2013 to increase screening care and treatment of hepatitis B and C patients. HMT was composed of hepatologist, nurses, social workers and health care worker. Objective increase outreach screening care treatment access and cure of our target population. Patients and methods Target population was drugs users, prisoners, homeless, precarious people, migrants and psychiatric patients. We proposed part or all of our services to our 42 medical and social partners: HCV HBV screening by DBS (dried blood test); outside DBS and FIBROSCAN in converted van; Outreach open center; Drug users information and prevention, Free blood tests in primary care;, Staff training; Social screening and diagnosis; Mobile liver stiffness Fibroscan in site; Advanced on-site specialist consultation; Easy access to pre-treatment commission; Low cost mobile phones for patients; Individual psycho-educative intervention sessions; Collective educative workshops; Peer to peer educational program; Specific one day hospitalizations. All services were free for patients and for partners. Results from 2013 July to 2018 December, we did 8382 DBS for 5382 people (3053 HCV DBS) and 2302 Fibroscan*. HCV new positive rate was 21.3%. Our HCV active file was 651patients included these 24.8% new patients screened by DBS; 98% realized HCV genotype, HCV viral load and FIBROSCAN. DAA treatment was proposed to 96%; 95% started treatment, 4% were lost follow up or refused treatment. After treatment, there was 7 relapse and 3 reinfections by drug injection and cured rate of 94%. Sociological evaluation showed that 4 program qualities for patients: free access, closeness (outside hospital), speed (of the results) and availability (of nurse and social workers). Conclusions: Specific follow-up of drugs users and other HCV high-risk patients including screening, early detection, diagnosis and treatment increase rate of treated and cured patients, with low rate of relapse and reinfections.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-19-2746
Human immunodeficiency viruses causes HIV infection in humans belongs to two species of Lentivirus. It damages the cells of immune system which leads to weak immune system and the ability to fight from infections and diseases. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence rate of HIV infection among pregnant women of different age groups attending Ajiko medical clinic, Damaturu, Nigeria. The prevalence rate was maximum (12.5%) in 36-45 age group and minimum (5%) in 26-35 age group but their was no HIV infection in 15-25 age group. The overall prevalence rate among pregnant women was 4%. General knowledge , training and campaigns of HIV prevention need to be tailored towards older women of age group 36-45 because of high prevalence rate.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2703
The Mediterranean diet has long been known to provide a variety of health benefits including cardiovascular protection, cancer prevention, and lowering gastrointestinal inflammation. Oregano (Origanium vulgare) is an herb prominent in the Mediterranean diet, and has been shown to possess several bioactive properties including anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties of oregano also make it a strong candidate as a natural food preservative. Because of the recent public concern with synthetic food preservatives, natural alternatives are increasingly being evaluated for effective food preservation. Oregano extract (OE) and essential oil (OEO) are two such agents that have shown promise as natural food preservatives. Additionally, oregano is being evaluated for its positive effect on gastrointestinal health, suggesting an additional benefit of food preservation with oregano. This review will describe in vitro studies related to the anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties of oregano along with food preservation studies with oregano in various model food matrices. The major phytochemical content reported for OE and OEO will also be outlined to highlight the importance of characterizing the extract that is used, since the extraction process can have a significant effect on the phytochemicals therein. Finally, in vivo studies that investigate the gastrointestinal health benefits of oregano, specifically against inflammation, will be addressed to describe the role of oregano on gastrointestinal health.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2615
The notion that foods have health promotion effects beyond their nutritional value has been increasingly accepted in recent years, and the specific effects of nutrition prevention on disease have led to the discovery of functional foods. Functional foods are products that contain various biologically active compounds and which, consumed in a current diet, contribute to maintaining the optimal state of physical, mental and mental health of the population. Functional foods are consumed in the normal diet and contain biologically active compounds with potential to improve health or to reduce the risk of disease. The objectives of this review are to highlight the strengths of functional foods.
Nov 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2345
Background: lifestyle modification is known as the cornerstone for prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. To promote individual’s lifestyle, the first step is to measure their lifestyle by a valid and reliable tool. The aim of present study was to evaluate psychometric properties of the Persian version of Healthy Lifestyle and Personal Control Questionnaire (HLPCQ). Method: A crosssectional study carried out on 300 medical students in Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Data collected using a questionnaire contained demographic data and Persian version of HLPCQ. The reliability of the questionnaire determined using Cronbach’s alpha and intra class correlation coefficient (ICC). The construct validity of the questionnaire evaluated by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 19 and Lisrel 8.8. Results: Internal consistency of HLPCQ was 0.78 using Cronbach’s alpha and 0.80 by ICC. In confirmatory factor analysis, the scale had acceptable goodness of fit indices. Conclusions: The Persian version of HLPCQ had excellent psychometric properties and can be used in in primary health care settings.
Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-18-2408
Improved economic and developed people with their lifestyle have created many challenges of health issues (obesity, osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes, allergies and dental problems), due to selection of different food habits (such as consumption of manifold junk foods). It has created number of health problem (development of many diseases) related to nutritional deficiencies food. Nowadays, people have developed the habit for shifting of synthetic food ingredients to organic foods and ingredients, obtained from natural sources. In this regards, nutraceuticals food or its food products can perform important role in controlling the diseases via fulfilling all the health benefits to many people at worldwide. Incredible dietary supplements as nutraceuticals food (involvement in nutritional, immunologic and physiological functions) can help in prevention or treatment of many diseases (mitigating of gastrointestinal (GI) tract problem), as it is synthesized from raw herbals and lots of rapidly growing industries are reported to synthesize these natural products. And around 100 million people are found to take these products (power of plant based materials) for getting health benefits. It can work as drugs as health benefit of nutraceuticals via regulation/ control for diseases. Global nutraceuticals market had been valued for US$ 165.62 billion in 2014 and it would be grow the value of US$ 278.96 billion by 2021 with compound annual growth rate of 7.3%. This proposed paper will discuss the different types of nutraceuticals food or its functional components involved in prevention or treatment of diseases.
Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-18-2433
Objective: Use "The 11 +" warm-up program in female players of the National Chilean Sub-17 Football team in order to analyze morpho – physiological variables. The implementation of this training program will generate morpho – physiological changes between players exposed. Federation International Football Association (FIFA) created a training program known as the "11+", designed to amend morpho-functional parameters such as lower extremity alignment, strength, intra, and inter muscular coordination and balance, among others. Subjects: Information indicates that injuries are a serious cause of concern for the soccer clubs and therefore, it is necessary to introduce the prevention programs. Methods: 20 female players of the National Chilean Sub-17 Soccer Team, from 14 to 17 years, who trained from March 2017 to January 2018. The “The 11+” warm-up program was considering an independent variable and thigh circumference, jumping ability, speed and balance are considered dependent variables. We use The STATA 11.1 SE (Statistics / Data Analysis) program for the statistical. Results: After implementing the “The 11+” program, significant changes (p < 0.05) were observed in the morphological variables of thigh circumference and functional speed. Concerning the functional variables of jump and balance, favorable but not statistically significant. Conclusions: Application of the "The 11 +" warm-up program for 3 months in addition to proper training, generated morpho – physiological changes associated with an increase in thigh circumference and an improvement in speed. The practical utility is to improve morpho-physiological characteristics of players in a competitive area and thereby to improve the utility of athletic performance indirectly.
Sep 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-18-2315
Selenium is an essential micronutrient required for healthy metabolism, as well as prevention, and treatment of selenium deficiency diseases. The experiment aimed to evaluate the influence of the Trivedi Effect®-Consciousness Energy Healing Treatment on the physicochemical and thermal properties of selenium using modern analytical techniques. The selenium sample was divided into two parts, one part of the test sample was called the control sample, while the second part of the test sample received the Biofield Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Gopal Nayak, and was called the treated sample. The particle size values were significantly decreased by 37.69% (d10), 14.36% (d50), 4.31% (d90), and 11.58% D(43), hence, the specific surface area was significantly increased by 33.64% in the treated sample compared to the control sample. The PXRD peak intensities and crystallite sizes were significantly altered ranging from 5.23% to 100% and 75% to 111.7%, respectively; whereas 7.81% significantly decreased the average crystallite size in the treated sample than the control sample. The latent heat of fusion of the treated sample was significantly increased by 12.37% compared with the control sample.The results suggested that the Trivedi Effect® might generate a new polymorphic form of selenium which would offer better solubility, bioavailability and be thermally more stable compared with the control sample. The Biofield Treated selenium would be more useful to design novel nutraceutical/pharmaceutical formulations and might offer an enhanced therapeutic response against cardiovascular disease, cancer, neuromuscular disorders, diabetes, stress, aging, male infertility, viral diseases, degenerative ailments, etc.
Sep 2018
A concise review of autoimmune disease etiology emphasizes genetic susceptibility, inflammatory pathways, and environmental exposures. It points to systems approaches for risk stratification and prevention with illustrative examples.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-18-2263
Nigeria is one of the high-burden countries in sub-Saharan Africa for HIV/AIDS and contributes to reproductive health morbidities and mortalities. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of HIV-discordant rate among pregnant women in Plateau state Nigeria. The study sought to determine the prevalence and trend of HIV sero-discordance among pregnant women in Plateau state, Nigeria. The study was a 5-year descriptive analysis of HIV sero-discordance among pregnant women accessing prenatal care and their partners in Plateau state, Nigeria based on data generated between January 2012 and December 2016. The data was disaggregated by year, HIV concordant negative, HIV concordant positive, and HIV sero-discordant prevalence in the software and analysis were done using excel to obtained the proportions and trend of HIV sero-discordant prevalence among the antenatal population. Out of a total of 7,851 partners of pregnant women studied, 969 (16.3%) were HIV sero-discordant, 5,795 (73.8%) were HIV concordant negative, and 773 (9.9%) were HIV concordant positive. HIV sero-discordant positive males accounted for 12.3% while females were 4.0%. The prevalence of HIV sero-discordance was low with a high proportion of HIV positive male partners in Plateau state with grave public health implications for new HIV infections among partners and eroding the gains made in the Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-18-2236
Nigeria is one of the high-burden countries in sub-Saharan Africa for HIV/AIDS and contributes to reproductive health morbidities and mortalities. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of HIV-discordant rate among pregnant women in Plateau state Nigeria. The study sought to determine the prevalence and trend of HIV sero-discordance among pregnant women in Plateau state, Nigeria. The study was a 5-year descriptive analysis of HIV sero-discordance among pregnant women accessing prenatal care and their partners in Plateau state, Nigeria based on data generated between January 2012 and December 2016. The data was disaggregated by year, HIV concordant negative, HIV concordant positive, and HIV sero-discordant prevalence in the software and analysis were done using excel to obtained the proportions and trend of HIV sero-discordant prevalence among the antenatal population. Out of a total of 7,851 partners of pregnant women studied, 969 (16.3%) were HIV sero-discordant, 5,795 (73.8%) were HIV concordant negative, and 773 (9.9%) were HIV concordant positive. HIV sero-discordant positive males accounted for 12.3% while females were 4.0%. The prevalence of HIV sero-discordance was low with a high proportion of HIV positive male partners in Plateau state with grave public health implications for new HIV infections among partners and eroding the gains made in the Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2223
Marijuana utilization among school aged adolescents is major public and mental health concern in Ghana and other developing countries, with the rate of usage soaring high among school going adolescents. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of marijuana utilization among selected Junior High School (JHS) students in the Central Region of Ghana and explore the relative impact of psychosocial factors accounting for its usage. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design with the Global School Based Survey GSHS questionnaire, a sample of 1400 school going adolescents students were drawn using multistage sampling procedure. Frequencies, percentages and binary logistic regression results indicated marijuana utilization prevalence of 9% (n = 122). Statistically, gender (OR = 0.52, 95% CI= 0.35 - .765, p = 0.001), religious affiliation (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.0 - 2.95, p = 0.034), socioeconomic background (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.33 - 1.23, p = 0.004) and geographical location (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.31 - .886, p = 0.016) significantly predicted marijuana utilization among school aged adolescents. No statistically significant variations were found in the odds of students’ marijuana usage for age (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.69 - 1.88, p = 0.590), parental communication (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.56 - 1.23, p = 0.348) and academic performance (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.66 -1.80, p = 0.744). Findings suggest that school based research should reflect and perhaps replicate existing prevalence, patterns of marijuana and other drug use through multiple school surveys nationwide. This pathway may provide useful information towards the design, evaluation and implementation of drug prevention cognitive-behavioural interventions and the development of stringent drug regulative standards.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2178
Several studies examine the musculoskeletal pain (MSP) in university students sustaining physical load as part of their compulsory learning. However, only two somewhat outdated cross-sectional studies examine the physical education teacher (PET) students. This study aimed to explore the neck, shoulder and low back MSP prevalence in Greek PET students in a series of academic years. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire was used to record the past 12-month neck, shoulder and, low back pain, across three academic years (n = 479). The year association to MSP prevalence was examined with the cross-tabulation analysis (using the column proportion test for the year comparison) and, the gender association to MSP prevalence with the χ2 test (SPSS 22.0, p ≤ 0.05). The year association to MSP prevalence was not significant (p > 0.05). The overall prevalence was 67.6%, with multiple pain at 25.7% and, the low back presenting the highest prevalence (40.9%). Women reported a higher prevalence of neck (36%) and low back (47%) pain (p ≤ 0.05). The majority of pain and time loss duration was 1-7 days. The low back required higher medical attention (19.0%) than the neck (9.2%) and the shoulder (12.9%). The recurrent pain was at 30%, with the previous injury/accident rate at 5.8%, 14.4% and 14.6% for the neck, shoulder and low back. Our PET students present an alarming MSP prevalence. Due to their distinct work demands as PE teachers, entering working life with the healthiest possible musculoskeletal system is of critical importance. Thus, university authorities should consider strategies for the prevention of MSP risk.
Aug 2018
A review discusses the relationship between cancer stem cells and field cancerization, considering bidirectional influences and implications for prevention and targeted therapy.
Jun 2018
Objectives: Torture survivors suffer psychosocial distress such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Patients with PTSD and depression have increased risk for suicidal behavior. The aim of this study is to identify those torture and war survivors who have suicidal thoughts and describe their psychological profile as assessed in SCL-90-R. The patients of the Swiss Red Cross Centre for Torture Victims receiving psychotherapy were monitored with the SCL-90-R (N=58). Results: Out of 56 patients 32 (57%) declared that they did not suffer under the thought to end their own life (0=not at all), 10 (18%) indicated that they suffered substantially (scale value 3) or extremely (4) while 14 (25%) suffered somehow (1, 2). The endorsement of the suicide ideation correlates highly with all SCL-90-R scales, particularly with the scale Depression and PTSD indicating that the patients with suicide ideation also show considerable psychopathology. The scale Depression explained 40% of the variance of the suicide thoughts item and the scale Anger-hostility added another 5%. Conclusion: Suicide prevention should be an important part of the treatment and care in dealing with war and torture survivors.
May 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-18-2074
Objective: To determine the prevalence and risk factors of non-fistulous urinary incontinence (UI) among non-parturient women at University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: A hospital based cross sectional study of 500 non-parturient women presenting with non- fistulous gynaecological symptoms at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain information. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate analysis to determine the risk factors of urinary incontinence. Results: Mean age was 36.61 (SD=10.1) years and almost all (83.2%) were married. Prevalence of urinary incontinence is 21.4%. Majority (40.6%) had symptoms of stress urinary incontinence and 8.0% had urge urinary incontinence. Only 19.6% of those who leaked urine in the last one month sought medical attention despite visiting the hospital for other ailment(s), while of those that had ever leaked urine, 13.1% of them ever sought medical attention. Risk factors for UI were age at first delivery (OR=21.21, 95%CI=2.179-206.478), marital status (OR=0.142, 95%CI=0.044-0.454), chronic illness (OR=3.987, 95%CI=2.147-7.405) and history of prolonged labour (OR=3.111, 95%CI=1.584-6.110). Conclusion: UI is not uncommon in Nigeria. The identified predisposing factors were low age at first delivery, history of prolonged labour and chronic illness. There is need to sensitize women of the symptoms and complications associated with urinary incontinence as well as its prevention and need to seek medical care if they have the symptoms.
Apr 2018
A clinical perspective on renal function in acute myocardial infarction reviews pathophysiology, prognostic markers, and management implications, including contrast nephropathy prevention and hemodynamic support.
Mar 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-1716.jn-18-1993
Cardiovascular disease and lung cancer are two of the most common causes of death in the United States. The cardioprotective benefits of statin class drugs is predominantly mediated through the inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase, decreasing available mevalonate, and thus limiting in vivo cholesterol biosynthesis. Mevalonate and its metabolites have significant roles in cellular membrane synthesis, which is dysregulated during tumorigenesis, and is therefore a potential source for anti-tumor effects of statins. Similarly, dysregulation of cellular signaling is a hallmark of tumorigenesis. In vitro studies of EGFR, RAS, and AKT signaling pathways in cancer cells can all be reformed back to states more indicative of normally functioning cells when treated with statins. Statins have also been shown to exert beneficial properties in the presence of chemotherapeutic medications and radiation therapies by modulating the deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species, decreasing tumor cell resistance, and minimizing damage to surrounding native tissues. There is abundant of in vitro evidence to support the beneficial effects of statins on lung cancer patients. Prospective studies to determine the value of statin therapy on lung cancer prevention could lead to a significant change in lung cancer treatment.
Mar 2018
This article examines vitamin D insufficiency among adolescents in southern Brazil. It summarizes prevalence, potential determinants such as sun exposure and diet, and implications for bone health, calling for targeted prevention and screening strategies.