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Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-25-5731
Mukeredzi InnocentCorresponding author
Background Typhoid fever remains a significant public health issue in Harare City, Zimbabwe, exacerbated by recurrent outbreaks between 2018 and 2020. Key challenges, including inadequate water supply and sanitation infrastructure, high population density, and limited healthcare access, have intensified the disease burden. Understanding the key transmission drivers and assessing the impact of various interventions are essential for informing policy and health strategies. Objectives This study aimed to: 1: To predict future trends in typhoid fever cases Harare City typhoid hot areas. 2: To develop a mathematical model to simulate the spread of typhoid fever incidence under different intervention scenarios and recommend evidence-based strategies for reducing the disease burden in Harare City. Methods A dynamic compartmental SIR-based model, adapted from the Pitzer Vaccine Effectiveness (VE) framework, was employed to simulate disease transmission. This model accounted for both short-cycle (human-to-human) and long-cycle (environmental) transmission pathways. Data from Harare City (2018–2020) were used for model calibration and forecasting, and sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of different intervention levels. Findings The model identified inadequate sanitation, contaminated water sources, and low health- seeking behaviors as primary drivers of typhoid transmission. In the absence of interventions, the model projected a sustained high rate of transmission. However, treatment and WASH interventions could reduce the disease burden by 50–60%, while combined strategies incorporating vaccination and education led to an 80% reduction in cases. Sensitivity analysis indicated that treatment and WASH interventions were particularly impactful at moderate coverage levels. Conclusion Mathematical modeling effectively demonstrated the multifactorial drivers of typhoid fever transmission in Harare. Integrated interventions that combine WASH, vaccination, treatment, and education present the most promising approach for long-term control of the disease. The findings offer a solid, data-driven foundation for public health decision-making and resource allocation.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3741
Assegid SahiluCorresponding author
MD, MPH, Associate Professor of Epidemiology Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3635
Isea RaúlCorresponding author
Fundación Instituto de Estudios Avanzados, Hoyo de la Puerta, Baruta. Venezuela.
This work characterizes the transmission dynamics of the cases registered by Covid-19 in Venezuela. The needed input data were obtained from the official gazettes issued by the Government of Venezuela, from March 15 to September 9, 2020. Later, the value of the mantissa was determined, revealing the impact of the different outbreaks with special attention to the events at the baseball stadium in Nueva Esparta State, and the Las Pulgas Market located in Maracaibo. Finally, a mathematical model based on four epidemic waves revealed that the cases are increasing significantly over time after the episode that occurred in the Las Pulgas Market.
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3621
Stapff ManfredCorresponding author
LG Chem Life Sciences Innovation Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
Context In the face of further waves of the COVID-19 pandemic it becomes essential to find a balance between protective actions to guard public health and restrictive measures which can collapse our economy. Background As a basis for public health decisions, officials still rely on metrics which were helpful in the beginning of the pandemic but are now not precise enough for a focused and targeted approach to keep the spread of the infection under control. This can lead to public mistrust, “pandemic tiredness”, and can cause unnecessary damage to the economy without having the desired protective effect on public health. Methods This article discusses various metrics, their advantages and caveats, and it provides suggestions for use in a more targeted and risk-based approach, as an alternative to the current “general lock-down” practice. It suggests the notion of including a concept of “risk contacts per area” to better describe the possibility of virus transmission than currently published metrics do. The article also suggests specific analyses of real-world data for identification of populations at risk for severe courses of COVID-19 to allow more targeted protective actions. Discussion Data currently used to describe the COVID-19 pandemic lack important parameters like population density and local likelihood of potentially infectious contacts. The currently often used “all or nothing” approach of shut-down orders needs to be replaced by more sophisticated tactics considering individual local exposure risks and need to be balanced towards metrics on economic short term and long-term impact. In addition, smart analyses of real-world data may contribute to effective protection of individuals at risk.
Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-19-3115
D Mwalimu CharlesCorresponding author
Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences - Dar es Salaam
Africa Region has the highest burden of malaria with an estimated of 3.5 million more malaria cases in 2017 compared 212 million cases in reported in 2016. Data collected from 2015 to 2017, shown no global progress in reducing malaria cases. In Mainland Tanzania, malaria control interventions have significantly led to the reduction in malaria prevalence from 18.1% in 2008 to 7.3% in 2017. Despite of these achievements, malaria burden is still highly heterogonous with some regions including urban peripheral areas of Dar es Salaam, presenting persistent malaria transmission ranging from 2 to 57%. Material and Methods A cross- sectional population based survey was carried out in Ilala Municipality in Dar es Salaam; data was collected from 2nd to 31 April, 2019. Multistage cluster sampling was used to select the households where individual member were conveniently selected to participate in the study. Structured questionnaire were administered by the trained researcher assistants to assess individual risk factors for malaria. Rapid Malaria diagnostic test (mRDT) was used to identify individual exposed to malaria infection. Measure of association used was prevalence odds ratio (POR). Multivariate regression model used to determine prevalence odds ratio, variable with p- value < 0.05 were considered as independent risk factor for persistent malaria transmission. Results A total of 830 participants were recruited in the study, mean age was 24yrs ±20.4SD. Majority 489 (58.9%) were female, 459 (55.3%) were >18 yrs old, primary or no education were 687 (82.8%), farmer or unemployed were 639 (77%). Msongola ward contributed 406 (48.9%). Overall malaria prevalence in the study areas was (4.5%). Nets ownership was 141 (16.9%), usage was 121 (85.8%).Low proportion of net ownerships (POR: 7.67, 95% CI: 4.23, 24.6), residing in the households surrounded by mosquito breeding sites POR: 20.07, 95% CI: 7.03, 57.29) and residing in houses with unscreened windows (POR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.26, 3.40) were independently associated with malaria infection. Conclusion Low nets ownership, residing in the households surrounded by mosquito breeding sites and in households with unscreened windows was independent factors associated with risk of malaria in the areas. Promotion of ITNs coverage, application of biolarvicides through community engagement and house screening was recommended to reduce the risk of malaria infection in the areas.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3442
Cameron Y. S. LeeCorresponding author
The Covid-19 pandemic has swept rapidly from Wuhan, China to the entire globe in less than six months, infecting over 7 million people and claiming the lives of over 500,000. In the United States, greater than 2 million individuals have become infected and over 110,000 people killed. With no evidence of slowing of the coronavirus that causes Covid-19, public health authorities must prepare for possible sustained transmission of Covid-19, or a second wave into the Fall 2020, but with the presence of the influenza A virus. In the Fall 2020, schools will reopen from kindergarten to 12th grade. Dual pandemics or epidemics will result in high morbidity and mortality not observed when either virus was solely active. Community leaders, educational administrators and public health systems must be prepared for simultaneous outbreaks of both Covid-19 and influenza. Although there are no clinical studies that have evaluated the benefits on the use of face masks during an epidemic or pandemic, public health non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPIs) measures should include the routine use of face masks during school sessions. Using face masks with other NPI may interrupt viral transmission as it has been established that respiratory viruses, such as Covid-19 and the influenza virus are transmitted via respiratory droplets, aerosols, and environmental surface contact.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-6759.jpar-20-3184
M.A. Khalifa RefaatCorresponding author
Parasitology Departement, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
Domestic pigeons (Columba liviadomestica) of the order Columbiformes are ubiquitous birds and can be found in virtually every town and city around the globe. Their interaction with humans and domestic animals and wild birds makes them a potential carrier of zoonotic parasites. The present study aimed to detect the prevalence of different zoonotic protozoans that affect different-aged domestic pigeons in different localities in Assiut Governorate, Egypt. A total of 50 fecal samples from 20 young and 30 adult pigeons were collected and examined for identification and estimation of prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. and Microsporidium sp. using modified Kinyoun acid-fast stain. For detection of the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, serum samples from 50 pigeons were examined serologically for the presence of Toxoplasma antibodies by using Latex Agglutination test. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. infection was 20%; 6.7% in adult pigeons and 40 % in young pigeons while that of Microsporidium sp. was 40% both in adult and young pigeons. Mixed infection was detected in only two young pigeons (10%). Regarding Toxoplasma gondii detection, the number of seropositive cases detected by LAT was 29 out of 50 (58%). The positive agglutination titers, among 14 (48.27%) seropositive pigeons ranged between 1:2 -1:128. It was concluded that domestic pigeons may be considered as a reservoir host for Cryptosporidium, Microsporidium, and Toxoplasmagondii human infection which represents a serious human public health problem especially for high risk groups of population living in the same dwellings with pigeons. Moreover, the present pilot results provide a baseline data for planning future researches and control strategies against domestic pigeon's parasites.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-3146.jec-19-3049
A.A BerezinCorresponding author
Independent Researcher
As a result of mathematical modeling it has been shown that any closed electrical line can be interpreted as a ring waveguide where the Fermi-Pasta-Ulam recurrences of the electron and phonon currents interact with each other on the transversal and longitudinal periodical structures of the line conductor’s crystalline lattice as well as on the structures of the wire insulation. An electronic circuit simulating the mathematical model through the dynamics of magnons and phonons in a closed ferrite core with two different coils switched into the shoulders of a multivibrator has been developed. It has been demonstrated that the interacting ferromagnetic and ferroacoustic resonances excited simultaneously in a ferrite core qualitatively correspond to the dynamics of the electron and phonon currents interaction process in a closed electrical line.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5613
de Dieu Harerimana JeanCorresponding author
Background Domestic violence among HIV discordant couples poses significant public health challenges, affecting treatment adherence and HIV transmission risks. This study examined factors contributing to domestic violence among HIV discordant couples in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 HIV discordant couples from eleven health centers using stratified systematic sampling. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis. Results Domestic violence prevalence was 41.1% physical violence, 34.2% sexual coercion, and 52.3% emotional abuse. Key socio-demographic risk factors included female gender (56% vs. 29% males, p<0.001), older age (61% in ≥55 years vs. 32% in 18-24 years, p=0.004), unemployment (55% vs. 34% formal employment, p=0.014), and financial hardship (63% vs. 25% comfortable situations, p=0.002). Behavioral factors included alcohol use (58% vs. 38%, p=0.021), substance abuse (62% vs. 35%, p<0.001), and poor conflict resolution (72% vs. 25%, p<0.001). Contextual factors like hostile HIV disclosure reactions (68% vs. 34%, p<0.001) and HIV-related stigma (60% vs. 35%, p<0.001) significantly increased violence risk. Conclusions Domestic violence among HIV discordant couples is multifactorial, driven by socio-economic, behavioral, and HIV-related factors. Integrated interventions addressing economic empowerment, conflict resolution skills, stigma reduction, and couple-centered counseling are urgently needed.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-2108.jcc-25-5657
M Essam ZahraaCorresponding author
Viral infections contribute to a significant proportion of human cancers, with human papillomavirus (HPV) being one of the most well-established oncogenic viruses. This review summarizes HPV biology, transmission, classification, molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis, epidemiology of HPV-associated cancers, and current and emerging preventive and therapeutic approaches. particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, drives malignant transformation through the E6 and E7 oncoproteins, which disrupt tumor suppressor pathways p53 and Rb. Prophylactic vaccination programs have demonstrated remarkable success in reducing HPV-related disease burden, but disparities in coverage remain. Cutting-edge strategies such as CRISPR/Cas9 and RNA-based therapeutics offer promising avenues for treating established infections. Integrating these biomedical advances with robust public health initiatives is essential to ultimately eliminate HPV-associated cancers worldwide (Figure1).
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-6759.jpar-25-5576
Markus Bukar BiallahCorresponding author
Background Tick infestations severely impair cattle health and productivity in Nigeria through blood loss, hide damage, and transmission of tick-borne pathogens. Objective This study assessed key risk factors influencing tick infestation and evaluated control methods among Fulani pastoral herds in Plateau State. Methods A cross-sectional survey involving 250 cattle from ten herds was conducted across five Local Government Areas. Tick burden was analyzed against acaricide application methods (pour-on vs. hand-spray), hand-picking frequency, and herd mobility (sedentary vs. migratory). Data were collected via owner interviews and manual tick counts. Statistical analyses were performed using generalized linear models in R software. Results Cattle treated with pour-on acaricides had significantly lower tick burdens compared to those treated via hand-spray (P<0.05). Herds that practiced hand-picking five times weekly had fewer ticks than those hand-picking thrice weekly (P<0.01). Migratory herds recorded significantly lower infestations than sedentary herds (P<0.05). Conclusion Effective tick control requires the integration of optimized acaricide application, frequent manual removaland consideration of herd mobility patterns. Education, capacity building, and policy support are necessary to enhance adoption of effective tick control measures among pastoralists.
Mar 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-25-5429
O. Makanjuola RasheedCorresponding author
Malaria and bacteraemia are significant public health concerns and economic threats. In Africa, the intensity for simultaneous transmission and co-infection of Plasmodium spp and other bacteria pathogens are extremely high. It is believed that malaria suppress the immune system and enable the translocation of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract to other cellular compartments in the body. Some of the factors that contributed to the co-emergence of these pathogens are poor access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), poor infection control measures, inefficient health care systems. In addition, the similarities in the clinical signs and symptoms of these febrile diseases and the fact that the etiologic diagnostic testing can be complex, costly, and limited are the reasons why clinicians in resource-constrained setting often prescribe antibiotics empirically prior to or without laboratory testing to prevent severe outcomes in any patient hospitalized with malaria. However, this indiscriminate use of antibiotics has been identified as the driving force for antibiotic resistance, which is already at alarming rate in malaria endemic nations. In developed countries where malaria had been previously eradicated, there are increasing reports of imported malaria with concurrent bacteraemia. In this review, we emphasized the role of malaria in the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and the fact that eliminating malaria in Africa is one of the best strategies to address the emergence and the global spread of multi-drug resistance organisms.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-4721.ijcm-24-5030
S. Gunn* JohnCorresponding author
Typhoid fever, caused by the human restricted pathogen Salmonella Typhi, remains a major global public health concern. Even after successful treatment, approximately 3-5% of patients with typhoid fail to clear the bacteria within one year and become chronic carriers. Most typhoid carriers have gallstones in their gallbladder, and biofilm formation on gallstones is highly correlated with chronic carriage. This study’s goal was to identify asymptomatic typhoid carriers in an endemic setting in Kenya, and to compare acute versus chronic isolates. A cohort of typhoid fever patients identified through blood and/or stool culture, and their household contacts, were followed up after treatment to detect longitudinal S. Typhi stool shedding. An abdominal ultrasound scan was used to identify individuals with gallstones. A total of 32 index patients and 32 household contacts were successfully followed-up. Gallstones were detected in 4 cases and 1 household contact. The duration of S. Typhi shedding was significantly longer in individuals with gallstones compared to those without, P<0.001. Eighty-three (83) S. Typhi strains were tested for susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobials and examined by in vitro biofilm formation assays. Out of 37 infected individuals, 32.4% had infections caused by multidrug resistant (MDR) S. Typhi strains and only 18.9% were infected by susceptible strains. Non-MDR strains formed significantly better biofilms in vitro than the MDR strains (P<0.001). This study provides data on S. Typhi chronic carriage that will influence public health approaches aimed at reducing typhoid transmission and the burden of infection.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5257.ijgp-24-5041
Muendo NicholasCorresponding author
Introduction Globally, 36.7 million individuals live with HIV/AIDS, with 2.5 million new cases annually. Youth (14-25 years) account for 45% of these new infections. Those aged 15-24 years are less likely to be aware of their HIV status and engage in HIV care compared to older adults. This study explores the use of HIV self-testing to improve access to HIV care among Kenyatta University undergraduates. Objective To identify barriers and facilitators to HIV self-testing in this group. Methodology Employing multistage cluster sampling, 398 students were surveyed using a self-administered questionnaire. Results Of the participants (median age 21 years, 1:1.03 male-to-female ratio), 91.7% understood HIV's seriousness, with sexual intercourse as the primary transmission mode. Self-testing usage was 28.8%. Key barriers included fear of partner reaction, stigma, and lack of confidence. Significant facilitators were being female, knowledgeable about HIV, and sexually active. Conclusion Only 24% had prior HIV testing experience. The study highlights the importance of addressing fears and misconceptions while leveraging knowledge and sexual activity awareness to promote HIV self-testing.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2994-6743.ijstd-24-5006
Khatoon Hossein Mehdi Poor NargisCorresponding author
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.
Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-6759.jpar-23-4764
Bekele DamtewCorresponding author
Helminth parasite infections in sheep are of major veterinary importance in many agro-ecological zones and are a primary factor in the productivity of sheep. The main objective of this study was to determine helminth parasites prevalence and their economic loss caused on sheep with its control approach at the study area. A cross-sectional study using a simple random sampling procedure was used to study helminth parasite identification at Gudaya Bila district during 2022 in two seasons of the year: winter (January - March) and summer (June - August). Out of 384 sheep chosen at random sampling from five Kebeles in the Gudaya Bila district (Welenelemu, Harogodisa, Chalejima, Hagelogidami, and Bila) that underwent flotation and sedimentation procedures, about 149 were infected by ay helminth parasites, with an overall prevalence 38.8%. Regarding the distribution of helimenth parasites at the class level, the prevalence was 13.9%, 11.7%, and 3.9% in trematoda, nematode, and cestoda, respectively. The helminth species that had highest prevalence were Fasciola species (19.5%), Haemonchus species (14.76%), Strongyloides species (10.74%), and Schistosoma species (9.4%), and those that had the least prevalence were Moniezia species (6.04%), Paramphistomum species (5.4%), Taenia species (4.02%), Nematodirus species (3.3%) and Trichostrongylus species (1.34 %). The summer season was favorable for helminths parasite transmission. The prevalence of helminths in the summer season was 98 (25.5%), and in the winter season it was 51 (13.3%). The study shows that the gastrointestinal helminth parasite was a major health problem and had an impact on the production of sheep in the study area. Therefore, a detailed study should be conducted to identify the parasite at the species level, and further investigation will be needed to study the association of the prevalence of helminth parasites within age, sex and the agroecology of sheep in the area. Then educating the people about the impacts of helminths is needed to control them.
Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-23-4461
Kripal RamCorresponding author
The synthesis of II-VI semiconductor nanocrystals doped with transition metal ions is particularly difficult. In the case of manganese doped CdSe nanocrystals produced via chemical route it is necessary to achieve small incorporation of manganese ions. The incorporation of manganese ions in CdSe nanocrystals has been confirmed by the study of Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, Photoluminescence and Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectra. The CdSe nanocrystals have cubic structure, the average crystallite size lies between 3-6 nm and increases with the variation of doping concentration of Mn2+ ions as characterized by X-ray diffraction. The structural properties of CdSe semiconductor nanocrystals are also studied by High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and UV- Visible Absorption Spectroscopy. The energy band gaps have been determined by UV/V is absorption study with the help of Tauc plot and are 2.54 eV, 2.27 eV and 2.24 eV as concentration of Mn2+ions in CdSe semiconductor nanocrystals increases from 0% to 0.75%. The crystallite size is also obtained from the UV-Visible absorption study; this varies from 1.69 to 1.78 nm with increase of Mn2+ concentration from 0% to 0.75% which is in agreement with X-ray diffraction result. Further, the magnetic and electronic properties of Mn2+ doped CdSe nanocrystals are studied using EPR spectra and the values of g factor, second-rank axial zero-field splitting parameter D and hyperfine parameter A are calculated. EPR measurements reveal that the dopant ions are incorporated in CdSe semiconductor nanocrystals.
Jul 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-23-4556
Isea RaulCorresponding author
The present work shows that it is possible to analytically solve a general model to explain the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2. First, the within-host model is described, and later a between-host model, where the coupling between them is the viral load of SARS-CoV-2. The within-host model describes the equations involved in the life cycle of SARS-CoV-2, and also the immune response; while that the between-Host model analyzes the dynamics of virus spread from the original source of contagion associated with bats, subsequently transmitted to a host, and then reaching the reservoir (Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan ), until finally infecting the human population.
Apr 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2831-8846.j3dpa-22-4066
Geremew TemesgenCorresponding author
Debark University, Department of physics, Debark, Ethiopia
Thin films are everywhere in the modern world, with many of the technologies we depend upon in daily life being, in turn, dependent upon thin film technology. Chemical bath deposition includes principles of chemical bath deposition (CBD) and concept of solubility product, nucleation and film growth, thin film deposition mechanism in chemical bath deposition. The non-metallic ion source (anions) and metal ion source (cations) then react to form the compound. The nucleation process plays an important role in determining the crystallinity and microstructure of the resultant film. From the discussion of deposition techniques which are physical and chemical deposition methods. Physical deposition techniques contains sputtering deposition, electron beam evaporation and physical vapour deposition (PVD) process have been known for over 100 years and also fabrication films on the substrate, as well as the increasement of the pressure in the chamber due to operation of the sources indicates directly that gases or vapors are desorbed. Chemical deposition process is economically effective and has been industrially exploited to large scale. It can be summarized that thin film characterization techniques include X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM). X-rays diffraction (XRD) is a rapid and a powerful technique used to study the phase of a crystalline material, information on unit cell lattice parameters, crystal structure, crystal orientation and crystalline size.
Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-22-4115
Whegang Youdom SolangeCorresponding author
The University of Dschang Taskforce for the Elimination of COVID-19 (UNITED#COVID-19) .
Background Cameroon is battling against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Although several control measures have been implemented, the epidemic continues to progress. This paper analyses the evolution of the pandemic in Cameroon and attempts to provide insight on the evolution of COVID-19 within the country’s population. Methods A susceptible-infected-recovered-dead (SIRD)-like model coupled with a discrete time-dependent Markov chain was applied to predict COVID-19 distribution and assess the risk of death. Two main assumptions were examined in a 10-state and 3-state Markov chain: i) a recovered person can get infected again; ii) the person will remain recovered. The COVID-19 data collected in Cameroon during the period of March 6 to July 30, 2020 were used in the analysis. Results COVID-19 epidemic showed several peaks. The reproductive number was 3.08 between May 18 and May 31; 2.75 between June 1 and June 25, and 2.84 between June 16 and June 24. The number of infected individuals ranged from 17632 to 26424 (June 1 to June 15), and 28100 to 36628 (June 16 to June 24). The month of January 2021 was estimated as the last epidemic peak. Under the assumption that a recovered person will get infected again with probability 0.15, 50000 iterations of the Markov chain (10 and 3- state) demonstrated that the death state was the most probable state. The estimated lethality rate was 0.44, 95%CI=0.10%-0.79%. Mean lethality rate assuming ii) was 0.10. Computation of transition probabilities from reported data revealed a significant increase in the number of active cases throughout July and August, 2020, with a mean lethality rate of 3% by September 2020. Conclusion Multiple approaches to data analysis is a fundamental step for managing and controlling COVID-19 in Cameroon. The rate of transmission of COVID-19 is growing fast because of insufficient implementation of public health measures. While the epidemic is spreading, assessment of major factors that contribute to COVID-19-associated mortality may provide the country’s public health system with strategies to reduce the burden of the disease. The model outputs present the threatening nature of the disease and its consequences. Considering the model outputs and taking concrete actions may enhance the implementation of current public health intervention strategies in Cameroon. Strict application of preventive measures, such as wearing masks and social distancing, could be reinforced before and after the opening of learning institutions (schools and universities) in the 2020/2021 calendar year and next.
Mar 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-2248.jwl-22-4074
Ahmed Kamal SamiaCorresponding author
Professor Dr. Virology department, Animal Health Research Institute, Egypt
Camels imported from Africa enter Egypt at Southeast borders. Movement of life animals help spreading of transboundary diseases from endemic areas to free areas. Lappet-faced vulture in Egypt territory represents highly valuable gift of nature, it is recorded in Red sea zone of Egypt. Their numbers indicate vulture breeding rate was promising for such endangered species. The Egyptian authority played a great role in protecting this land from destructive behavior against wild life. The raven accompany lappet-faced vulture, while eating together, which indicates healthy atmosphere at their habitat. This work performed while studying the epidemiology of this region and the impact of movements of live animals coming from Africa on trans-boundary diseases. Lappet-faced vultures and Raven play major role in preventing transmission of infectious agents from camel carcasses. However, Vulture has strong digestive system that kill a wide range of harmful microorganisms. Moreover, these scavenge birds are considered dead end hosts for these diseases. The study provides vivid proof of the innate intelligence that distinguishes the raven, as well as evidence that the black bird possesses a common language among themselves and between them and the Lappet-faced vulture. Lappet-faced vulture is usually nesting at acacia trees & mountains. However some acacia trees showed defected growth as a result of the strong wind, such observation is of great importance to understand geography of such habitat. Lappet-faced vulture is endangered species and need more attention and care.
Jan 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-4044
Chukwuma Sr ChrysanthusCorresponding author
The Chrysanthus Centre for Future-Oriented Studies, Centre For Future-Oriented Studies, CTR Future-Oriented Ltd, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
This paper attempts to present the dissemination and transmission dynamics of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases and the underlying features of gain-of-function research and geopolitics in the ambient within and across borders. Research and publication are relevant from perspectives in the management of local and global health because disease is perspicuously a geopolitical issue ostensibly linked to gain-of-function research where health diplomacy undergirds present and future global functionalities regarding the emergence and reemergence of infectious diseases. These have generated vehement reactions with propensity for extreme geopolitics and gain-of-function natural and anthropogenic activities. Geopolitical parameters and gain-of-function issues impact on the social determinants of health and vice versa. The convening and convergence of countries for unprecented epidemic or pandemic treaty settings or other formulations to confront emerging and reemerging infectious diseases will afford considerable opportunities concerning challenges in action, preparedness and response. Provisions are pertinent for legal instruments, effective and efficient systems to curb future threats and outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Nov 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-21-3991
Isea RaúlCorresponding author
Fundación Instituto de Estudios Avanzados, Hoyo de la Puerta, Baruta, Venezuela.
The objective of this paper is to apply datadriven discovery of dynamics modeling to obtain a system of differential equations that allows us to describe the transmission dynamics of Covid-19, based on the number of confirmed cases and deaths reported daily. This methodology was applied in four different countries: Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and the United States. The main advantage is that only one differential equation is needed to characterize the dynamic of Covid-19 without any mathematical assumption.
Sep 2021
J. Kavana NicholasCorresponding author
Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, St. Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences P.O Box 175 Ifakara, Tanzania
Background This study was done to assess knowledge, attitude and preventive practices towards sexually transmitted infections among secondary school students in Mlimba Division, Ifakara, Tanzania. Method A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2021. A total of 365 secondary school students (193 male; 172 female) aged between 12 and 23 years were surveyed by using a pretested self-administered questionnaire. Results The study found the majority 95.9% had heard of STDs, 77.8% knew symptoms of STDs, 86.8% knew mode of transmission, 94.0% knew the importance of use of condom during sexual intercourse. Among the sexually-active students, 70.7% had practiced sexual intercourse and 42.2% used condom during sexual intercourse. Conclusion The risky behavior practiced by the sexually-active students in this study is alarming. There is a need to introduce STD education curriculum in secondary schools so that appropriate intervention on STDs can be implemented.
Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3758
Hewageegana NS RajapaksaCorresponding author
National Consultant Health System Enhancement Project Sri Lanka
“Health Promoting Village” concept named as “Happy Villages” started in 2007 in Badulla District in Uva Province was a community mobilization process through which village communities have been empowered to look after their community health. The areas included were Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) prevention , Alcohol and drug abuse. Gender Based Violence. The programmed used many interactive tools as “Mood Chart” or “Happiness Calendar” which was giving a visualizing effect. Continuous assessments done from 2009 to 2013 showed that the Health promotion strategies used in the Happy Village concept in the Uva Province can effectively and efficiently be utilized for improvement of nutrition and achievement of milestones in children. From 2017 a National program is launched named “Happy Villages”. During the Covid 19 outbreak health promotion approaches were initiated to change in lay communities successfully. Villagers had actively engaged, collectively acted in responsible manner, and identified measures to prevent COVID-19 transmission in their households, neighbourhood and community. The use of village empowerment had become a fruitful source to face the Covid pandemic in Sri Lanka. Almost 300 “Happy Villages” around the country have made facing the Covid epidemic their chief task. Many innovative ideas and practices in facing Covid 19 pandemic at village level including a visualizing calendar to identify the risk behaviours of the family members as well as the Happiness calendar to identify the family stress levels are among them. Health promotion concept is getting rooted around the country with active participation of the villages with a multisectoral support. Continuous monitoring and evaluation and sharing best practices will show the world the effectiveness of Health Promotion and the ability of empowered people in facing pandemic situations
May 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3820
Rutayisire ErigeneCorresponding author
Department of public Health, Mount Kenya University Rwanda Kigali Rwanda
In Rwanda the prevalence of mother-to-child HIV transmission is 1.5%, the prevalence was found to be higher in rural area. The purpose of this study was to determine the Prevalence and Risk Factors of HIV Infection among Children born from HIV Positive Women in Musanze District. The study findings help to decrease the rate of HIV infection among children born from mother HIV positive to zero. This study was conducted in Musanze District, Northern Province in Rwanda. The study targeted 420 HIV positive mothers who delivery in different health facilities located in Musanze district form January 2019 to December 2020 and their children. SPSS version 22 was used for analysis. Of 420 children born from HIV positive mothers 91.7% were aged between 18-24 months, 55.2% were female. The majority of HIV positive mothers 80.2% who participated in the study were married. The prevalence of HIV infection among children born from HIV positive women was 2.9%. Children whose mother had poor adherence to ART were 1.5 times more likely to get HIV at birth compared to those whose mother had good adherence (AOR = 1.5; 95% CI: (1.12-2.21)). Children born from mothers in WHO stage II were more likely to get HIV from their mother (AOR = 1.24; 95% CI: (1.32-2.207)). Children born from HIV positive mother with one ANC visit were 2.5 times more likely to get HIV from their mothers (AOR = 1.56; 95% CI: (2.31-5.17)).
May 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-4602.jes-21-3837
O. Henderson JeffreyCorresponding author
Department of Science and Mathematics, Judson University, Elgin, IL 60123, USA
The coronavirus infectious disease (20)19 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by a newly identified virus (2019) SARS-CoV-2, a beta coronavirus that shares similarities with other human-infecting coronaviruses. Genomic analysis suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is closely related to SARS-CoV, a bat-related coronavirus, RaTG13, and to other pangolin-associated coronaviruses. The spike protein of coronaviruses are glycoproteins and are responsible for attaching the virus to the host cell and entering. Amino acid changes within the spike protein-encoding gene from SARS-CoV to SARS-CoV-2 enable SARS-CoV-2 to form a stable spike protein, to form a stable complex between the S protein and the receptor ACE2, to increase binding points between the S protein and ACE2, and to survive at higher temperatures. SARS-CoV-2 is zoonotic, with genomic analysis implicating bats as the original host and pangolins as the most likely intermediate host to infect humans. As SARS-CoV-2 infects humans, viral point mutations will continually occur and cause the emergence of new competitive SARS-CoV-2 strains. Two major strains include D614G and N501Y and have increased infectivity and transmission, further complicating the scope of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Vigilant monitoring of viral development and evolution is necessary for developing proper treatment methods and vaccine targets.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3732
Isea RaúlCorresponding author
Fundación Instituto de Estudios Avanzados, Hoyo de la Puerta, Baruta, Venezuela.
This paper resolves analytically a mathematical model that reproduces the transmission of Covid-19 in three interactive populations, i.e. from the initial source of contagion associated with the bat population, subsequently transmitted to unknown host (usually associate with pangolins). The host were sent and distributed to Seafood Market in Wuhan (defined reservoir), and finally infected to the human population. The model is based on a system of ten differential equations reproducing all the possible infection scenarios among all of them, that is: (1) there is no infection in any of the three populations, (2) only the population of bats is infected, (3) only the pangolins, (4) only the human people. Later, combinations between them, this is: (5) both the bat and pangolin populations, (6) bats and humans, (7) pangolins and humans, and finally, (8) all the previous populations. In each scenario, I deduced the critical points as well as the eigenvalues that indicate the equilibrium conditions. Finally, it is demonstrated the validity of the model with the data corresponding to the second wave of infections in Australia.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8681.jcsr-21-3701
Zhao BinCorresponding author
School of Science, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
Background The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) suddenly appeared in Wuhan, Hubei since December 2019, and quickly swept across China, then the whole world. Today, after more than 100 days of fighting against the virus, China's epidemic has been effectively controlled, but when we looking at the entire world, the novel coronavirus has rampaged globally, especially in the United States and many European countries. This paper mainly studies the impact of COVID-19 outbreaks at Hubei Province and the United States, fits the given data and predicts future trends. Methods Based on the theoretical basis of traditional differential equations and SIR infectious disease model1, and combined with the actual situation to improve the model. Hubei Province is modeled in different time periods, and the effects of birth rate and natural mortality on the model are analyzed. Since the birth rate and natural mortality in the United States in recent years cannot be found, the epidemic situation in the United States can only be analyzed based on the absence of births and natural deaths. Finally, we used Netlogo2 to establish a closed environment (Small World), and combined with known data to conduct simulation experiments on COVID-19 infection. Findings Through the analysis of given data through the SIR model, it is found that before the Chinese government has taken comprehensive measures to cure patients (before 10 February), the number of patients in Hubei Province will reach the peak at the end of February, and will gradually decline thereafter, and on 20 March, the epidemic will be effectively controlled in the future, which coincides with the fact that Wuhan closed the last mobile cabin hospital on 10 March. On the other hand, after the Chinese government tried its best to cure the patients (after 21 February), the number of patients continued to decline over time and will reach 0 in mid-April, which is also consistent with the actual data. According to the factors of birth and natural death, the sensitivity analysis of the above model found that when the epidemic situation is at its peak, it has little effect on the curve, but when the epidemic situation gradually flattens, it still has a certain effect on the trend of the curve. Finally, looking at the situation in the United States, due to the high transmission rate, the number of patients in the United States continues to rise and is expected to reach its maximum in mid-June. We also use Netlogo to simulate the environment in which the virus spread, and find that the general trend of the curves is also consistent with the actual curves. Interpretation The Chinese government has taken various measures to deal with the novel coronavirus pneumonia, including the establishment of two temporary hospitals and dozens of sheltered hospitals, the temporary transformation of university dormitories into isolation rooms345, the closure of Wuhan, the ban on the movement of people and so on. These measures have helped to reduce the spread of the virus and greatly increased the patient's cure rate. But the US government ’s actions are not as effective as China’s, not only because the government ’s actions are inappropriate and untimely, and the people’s opposition to isolation has not subsided. As a result, the virus has spread widely in the United States. More than one million people have been infected with the virus, and tens of thousands of people have died from COVID-196.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3383
Zhao BinCorresponding author
School of Science, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
With the spread of the new coronavirus around the world, governments of various countries have begun to use the mathematical modeling method to construct some virus transmission models assessing the risks of spatial spread of the new coronavirus COVID-19, while carrying out epidemic prevention work, and then calculate the inflection point for better prevention and control of epidemic transmission. This work analyzes the spread of the new coronavirus in China, Italy, Germany, Spain, and France, and explores the quantitative relationship between the growth rate of the number of new coronavirus infections and time. In investigating the dynamics of a disease such as COVID-19, its mathematical representation can be constructed at many levels of details, guided by the questions the model tries to help answer. Mathematical sophistication may have to yield to a more pragmatic approach closer to the ability to make predictions that inform public health policies. Background In December 2019 , the first Chinese patients with pneumonia of unknown cause is China admitted to hospital in Wuhan, Hubei Jinyintan , since then, COVID-19 in the rapid expansion of China Wuhan, Hubei, in a few months time, COVID-19 is Soon it spread to a total of 34 provincial-level administrative regions in China and neighboring countries, and Hubei Province immediately became the hardest hit by the new coronavirus. In an emergency situation, we strive to establish an accurate infectious disease retardation growth model to predict the development and propagation of COVID-19, and on this basis, make some short-term effective predictions. The construction of this model has Relevant departments are helpful for the prevention and monitoring of the new coronavirus, and also strive for more time for the clinical trials of Chinese researchers and the research on vaccines against the virus to eliminate the new corona virus as soon as possible. Methods According to the original data change law, Establish a Logistic growth model, we collect and compare and integrate the spread of COVID-19 in China, Italy, France, Spain and Germany, record the virus transmission trend among people in each country and the protest measures of relevant government departments. Findings Based on the analysis results of the Logistic model model, the Logistic model has a good fitting effect on the actual cumulative number of confirmed cases, which can bring a better effect to the prediction of the epidemic situation and the prevention and control of the epidemic situation. Interpretation In the early stage of the epidemic, due to inadequate anti-epidemic measures in various countries, the epidemic situation in various countries spread rapidly. However, with the gradual understanding of COVI D -19, the epidemic situation began to be gradually controlled, thereby retarding growth
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3620
Obioma AzuonwuCorresponding author
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Bacteriology / Virology / Parasitology Unit, Rivers State University, Nkpolu – Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
COVID-19 remains a global public health emergency till date. It is eminent that the transmission of the disease is subjective to people’s readiness to implement public health preventative strategies and these are often related to knowledge. Proper public knowledge about COVID-19 plus its predisposing factors is critical to effectively manage the increasing public health risks. However, socio-demographics have been implicated to COVID-19 infection risk and management outcome. Thus, this present study examined the influence of knowledge on COVID-19 risk outcome, the contribution of socio-demographics on the risk of COVID-19 and predicted synergistic effects of knowledge and socio-demographics on the risk of COVID-19. All measured was strictly perception amongst African sampled with an online Google form as the primary data source. The Correlation designed used Zr Statistics of Fisher Transformation to determine the differences between the two correlation coefficients of the prediction variables after an initial test using Pearson Product Moment Correlation between COVID-19 risk and Knowledge plus socio-demographic. The hypothesis was tested using Statistical Package for Social Science version 21 and iStat at varying significant levels of 0.05 and 0.01 respectively. Generally, a significant relationship exists between COVID-19 risk and knowledge level but not with composite socio-demographics. However, specific significant relationship (p<0.05) was noticed between COVID-19 risk and age (r=0.220) as well as marital status (r=-0.158). Educational level, location, and sex showed no correlation (p>0.05) with COVID-19 exposure. Also, the proposition of no significant difference between correlation coefficients of socio-demographics and knowledge was proven otherwise (p<0.05). The regression model (R2=0.420 and adjusted R2=0.404, df=2, 336, F-value=27.012. p=0.00) significantly predicted the synergic contributions of knowledge level and socio-demographics to COVID-19 exposure. 40.04% of the COVID-19 risk exposure can be explained by socio-demographics and knowledge about COVID-19. Synergic contribution of knowledge and socio-demographics proved risk prediction to COVID-19. Traditional factor like age should be decidedly considered and attention should be drawn towards good knowledge about COVID-19 especially its signs and symptoms plus transmission.
Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3587
Isea RaúlCorresponding author
Fundación Instituto de Estudios Avanzados, Hoyo de la Puerta, Baruta. Venezuela.
The work analyzes the dynamics of transmission of infections by the new coronavirus in twelve European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, Austria, Croatia, Denmark, Greece, Romania, Czech Republic, and Portugal, whose data from contagion were obtained by Johns Hopkins University until September 24, 2020. The study confirmed that this new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) surprised all the countries of the world that had to improve their public health policies to confront this disease according to the results obtained from the calculation of the mantissa. Although the countries were able to improve their policies after the first wave of contagion, Spain and France have the highest proportion of cases that stand out significantly with the rest of the countries in the second wave of infections that the world faces again. Likewise, the beginning of the epidemic outbreak was determined, which could help to track the spread of the disease through European countries (not the first case registered in each country), from which it can be inferred that the outbreak begins in Italy and later the rebound begins in Germany, France, and Spain. Within days, it significantly affects Greece and Austria, reaching Denmark, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Croatia. Finally, the number of people who must be vaccinated to counteract the advance of Covid-19 in these European countries was determined based on the calculation of the Effective Reproductive Number, Rt. The number of people that would have to be vaccinated in all these countries to counteract this disease sums up to 206.830.361.
Oct 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-20-3534
Hari Venkateswara Rao C.Corresponding author
Ph.D Scholar, Mechanical Engg. Dept., UCE, Osmania University, Hyderabad – 07
In this article I am explaining the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation study on shell made of Composite material when subject to Temperatures above 3000ºC. In this analysis a shell is made of the composite structure with all the properties defines as of the Carbon Phenolic materials and is subjected to temperatures of 3000ºC and the flow pattern over the surface is studied and the velocity gradients on the shell when travelling with such high speeds and temperatures are studied. This simulation study can be used to predict the flow simulation in various applications of heat transmission. This CFD simulation study results are useful to make a CP composite material for better thermal applications in aerospace industry.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3481
Gupta ShilpiCorresponding author
Division of Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry Lab, National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR), I-7, Sector-39, Noida, India.
The indirect misuse of animals usually correlated to catastrophic consequences like the one we are facing now, novel coronavirus disease-19. However, the source of infection is not fully confirmed yet. But the finger of blame points to bats and pangolins. Hence, understanding and raising awareness about wild animals and the consequences of their misuse are a must to avoid future pandemics. Herein, we threw light on the most animals involved in the current epidemic as well as possible animals in the shadow. Random serological investigations of samples from animals of different species (including asymptomatic animals) are required to understand the prevalence and severity of the infection, the extent of the transmission, and the monitoring of the situation over time. Moreover, alleviating fear associated with the possibility of human infection from their pets, we highlight that there are no reports that confirm this hypothesis; however, the opposite has been reported. Similarly, there is no proof that pigs can become infected amplify or spread novel coronavirus.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3426
Cheng KangCorresponding author
Basic Medicine, Medical School, Qingdao Binhai University, Qingdao, P.R. China
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.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-20-3311
G. Elkabily AhmedCorresponding author
Ministry of health, Egypt
Currently, the emergence of a novel human corona virus, SARS-CoV-2, has become a global health concern causing severe respiratory tract infections in humans. Human-to-human transmissions have been described with incubation times between 2-14 days, facilitating its spread via droplets, contaminated hands or surfaces, resulting in high spread and death rates according to date, time and place of infection. We therefore reviewed the literature on all available information about the treatment of the cases, especially critical cases to decrease the mortality rate, the spread and incubation time of the virus by using the adaptive artificial passive immunity (anti-bodies from fully recovered patients with COVID-19).
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3344
Reza Naghii MohammadCorresponding author
Retired Professor of Human Nutrition, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
Identifying the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 disease will help to make appropriate decisions and thus control the epidemic. Although many details, such as the source of the virus and its ability to spread between people remain unknown, an increasing number of cases show the signs of human-to-human transmission. The purpose of this review is to introduce the reservoir hosts, and the possible role of distributions of bat coronaviruses in China, and eventually to aim to predict virus natural hotspots and their cross-species transmission potential. Why bats can maintain coronaviruses long-term without showing clinical symptoms of diseases and what is allowing bats to have a higher tolerance against viral diseases. We need to unveil the mystery of unique bat immunity. Although bats are not in close contact with humans, spillover of viruses from bats to intermediate animal hosts like civet is thought to be the most likely mode to cause human infection. It appears that the coffee beans which are a rich source of chlorogenic acid are acting as a reservoir host and causative agent, and at the same time as a defense agent to create resistance in the consumers (bats and animals). It is assumed that the intake of chlorogenic acid should be capable of protecting human from contamination or severe morbidity.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-20-3297
Bittmann StefanCorresponding author
Department of Pediatrics, Ped Mind Institute (PMI), Gronau, Germany
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.2766-8681.jcsr-21-3719
Zhao BinCorresponding author
School of Science, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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
Cheng KangCorresponding author
Basic Medicine, Medical School, Qingdao Binhai University, Qingdao, P.R. China
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.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-19-3110
N.A. KiryanovCorresponding author
Izhevsk State Medical Academy, Izhevsk, Russia
Aim To study the chondroplasty efficacy of the bone matrix obtained using an original technology in restoring cartilage defect of the knee joint. Material and Methods Marginal defects were modeled on the surface of the distal end of the femur in 40 adult male Wistar rats. The bone matrix obtained using an original technology was implanted in the damaged area in animals of the experimental group. Material was investigated by means of light microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and electron probe X-ray microanalysis. Results It was found that the bone matrix implanted did not cause an immune rejection reaction, activated reparative chondrogenesis for a prolonged period. In the area of articular cartilage lesion, the regenerate acquiring cellular and histochemical characteristics of the hyaline cartilage tissue was formed. The chondroinductive properties for the bone matrix were ensured by localized growth factors and morphogenetic proteins released during osteoclastic resorption. Conclusion The application of the bone matrix as a stimulator of chondrogenesis is theoretically reasonable and has a good perspective in treatment of damages and diseases of the articular cartilage.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-6655.jcap-19-2737
Köhler-Dauner FranziskaCorresponding author
Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Ulm
Background Mothers with a history of childhood maltreatment (CM) are likely to transmit their own experiences to the next generation. This is highly influenced by the quality of maternal behavior that enables to buffer infant’s hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response to stress. From a transgenerational perspective the research question is, if infant’s cortisol stress response is influenced by maternal CM experiences or rather by the behavioral pathways during the first year of life. Methods 53 mother-child-dyads were measured at 12 months of infant’s age in a laboratory visit assessing the maternal quality of interactive behavior using the Atypical Maternal Behavior Instrument for Assessment and Classification (AMBIANCE) measured during the strange situation procedure (SSP). Maltreatment experiences were assessed using the childhood trauma questionnaire (CTQ). Salivary cortisol of mother and infant were collected prior to and directly, 15 and 30 minutes after the SSP. Results Infants of disruptive mothers showed a significant increase in cortisol (F (3; 147) = 2.897, p= 0.048) after the SSP compared to infants of mothers with sensitive caregiving. Maternal CM did not influence the infant’s cortisol stress response due to the SSP. However maternal cortisol response was altered by trend due to CM (F (1.392; 71.008) = 3.157, p= 0.066). Conclusions Our data indicate that infant’s cortisol stress reactivity is influenced by the quality of maternal behavior and not by the transgenerational transmission of maternal CM experiences per se. These findings implicate that helping mothers to improve their caregiving behavior may help to improve stress-reactivity of their infant.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-18-1973
Victoria NthalaCorresponding author
Introduction Adherence to ART is a challenge among pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS. This has an effect on the health of the mother and the unborn child. While studies have been done, it has shown that adherence during pregnancy is a challenge Virological and clinical success depend critically on high adherence to ART because with low adherence. The success of expanded ART coverage in improving health outcomes depends on adherence to treatment. During pregnancy, a compromised Virological response to ART also increases risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. This study was carried out to determine factors that influence adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV positive pregnant women in Lusaka district of Zambia. Methodology This was a qualitative study which used a case study approach. Data was collected through in-depth interviews. The collected data was analysed using a thematic analytical approach. Results 17 pregnant women living with HIV /AIDS in Lusaka had Challenges with adherence to ART. The study explored factors related to adherence to ART among pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS. ART adherence was found to be low. The findings call for the need to reduce on social stigma. The results confirmed that there is low adherence to ART among pregnant women living with HIV /AIDS in Lusaka. Conclusion Adherence to ART among pregnant women living with HIV/AIDS is a challenge for Zambian pregnant women. Improved levels of adherence to ART is hampered by fear of social stigma, and fear of being blamed by partners if they disclosed their status. Stigmatisation needs to be addressed because nearly all the participants expressed this factor. There is need to address the HIV/AIDS stigma very seriously in order for society to look at HIV/AIDS like any other illness.
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-18-2464
Källestal CarinaCorresponding author
International Maternal and Child Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, SE 75185, Sweden.
Background Nicaragua has the highest prevalence of teenage pregnancies in Latin America. Knowledge regarding sexual and reproductive health plays an integral part in sexual behavior. The objective was to assess school going adolescents' knowledge about sexual and reproductive health and possible factors affecting it in the semi-rural community of Tololar, Nicaragua. Methods A cross-sectional study with a self-administered questionnaire on tablets was used for data collection. All 253 registered students at the school present at the time of fieldwork who gave written informed consent were deemed eligible for the study. A total of 225 participants in the ages of 11-19 years were included. Simple linear regression and multiple linear regression were performed analyzing the outcome knowledge. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results The general knowledge about sexual and reproductive health was moderate; however, knowledge gaps were found such as prevailing myths and poor knowledge regarding human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) transmission and contraceptive methods. Being female and single were significant negative determinants of knowledge (p-value < 0.01) and knowledge increased significantly with age (p-value < 0.05). School teachers, websites, social networks, and TV were the most frequently chosen sources of information on the topic. Conclusions Increased education on sexual and reproductive health with new interventions particularly for young females is recommended. Using IT-based materials as a complement may be an effective way to reach out to adolescents.
Sep 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-18-2032
KE BonyCorresponding author
Department of Neurology, University Teaching Hospital, Alassane Ouattara University, Bouake Ivory Coast.
We report the results of a two-month descriptive observational survey to assess the knowledge about epilepsy among primary school teachers in Bouake in Ivory Coast. This study included 310 teachers who were randomly chosen from three Primary School Inspections (PSI). Almost all the teachers who were included had shown inaccurate information about epilepsy. 46.45% of the respondents thought that epilepsy was contagious and 47.74% recommanded to avoid contacting with salivary secretions of the patient during seizure. For 16.45% of them, persons living with epilepsy (PWE) could be not married and 19.7% believed that PWE could not have children due to the risk of transmission. This study highlights the urgent need of awareness campaigns among primary school teachers.
Aug 2018
F. Favaro PatriciaCorresponding author
Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ), University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo - SP, Brazil
This brief report summarizes equine influenza activity in South America, noting clinical presentation, transmission dynamics, and recent outbreaks. It reviews vaccination strategies, biosecurity measures, and surveillance needs for controlling spread. Practical guidance is provided for veterinarians and stable managers to reduce risk during regional circulation.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-18-2263
FA MagajiCorresponding author
Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria.
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
FA MagajiCorresponding author
Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria.
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.
Jun 2018
Mwai JCorresponding author
Kenya Medical Research Institute.
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.
Jan 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1817
Elizabeth Márquez Contreras MaríaCorresponding author
Laboratorio de Enzimología de Parásitos (LEP), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida,Venezuela
Chagas disease is zoonotic illness or an anthropozoonosis caused by flagellated protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. This infection presents alarming rates of incidence/prevalence, for this reason, is recognized worldwide as one of the 13 most neglected tropical diseases 1. Numerous studies have demonstrated the existence of domestic dogs infected with T. cruzi across endemic areas ranging from southern United States of America to Argentina 2. The reported prevalence varies widely (1.42-92%), depending on ecoepidemiological and sociocultural factors 3. It is important to emphasize that the natural infection in dogs with T. cruzi occurs in the same way as in humans, that is to say, through active transmission by vectors, contamination by feces infected with the parasite through wounds or the conjunctiva, can also occur by ingestion of infected vectors or tissues of wild animals present in the peridomicile or home 4. The transplacental transmission is also an important mode of transmission in dogs 5. Nevertheless, the main mode of transmission in canine species seems to be the ingestion of infected vectors 6. During the life cycle of T. cruzi the trypomastigotes present in the heces of the triatomines are introduced in the mammalian host by contamination of the insect bite or mucosal membranes. The metacyclic form can penetrate a variety of phagocytic and nonphagocytic nucleated cells. Once inside the cells the parasite becomes in amastigote, which are multiplicative forms that divide into cells. Due to the high parasitic load they produce the lysis of the cells and escapes into the cytoplasm. The amastigotes transform to slender trypomastigotes which can invade adjacent cells, this forms can be ingested by triatomines and they transform into epimastigotes Finally, after migration to the bug's hindgut, the epimastigotes differentiate into infectious metacyclic trypomastigotes, in this way the life cycle of this microorganism is completed 7.
Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1773
J. Kavana NicholasCorresponding author
Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, St. Francis University College of Health and Allied Sciences
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.
Sep 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-9241.jrd-17-1683
Zeguang ZhengCorresponding author
First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease), Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120, China
Objective Investigate the effect of connecting a waterproof device at the front end of the piezometric tube on pressure transmission and patient-machine synchronization during the noninvasive ventilation. Method In test 1, the waterproof device was connected to the piezometric tube and put into a closed container, the pressure inside the container was varied to observe the corresponding pressure change in the piezometric tube. In test 2, a waterproof device was connected in front of the piezometric tube during noninvasive ventilation.12 subjects were received noninvasive ventilator so that dynamic changes of the pressure inside the mask (Pmask) and piezometric tube (Ptube) could be measured. Results In test 1, when the pressure in the container was gradually increased to 50 cmH2O and then decreased to 0, the pressure inside the piezometric tube changed synchronously with the pressure inside the container, with no statistically significant difference between the pressures (0.009 ± 0.138) cmH2O. In test 2, there was no significant increase in triggering time, pressure, and power after connecting the waterproof device at the front end of the piezometric tube. There was no significant difference in the platform pressure and baseline pressure as measured by Pmask, before and after connecting the waterproof device. Finally, there was no significant difference in the platform pressure and baseline pressure between Pmask and Ptube after connecting the waterproof device.
Sep 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-17-1739
Tarkang ElvisCorresponding author
Department of Population and Behavioural Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
Background: The use of Long Lasting Insecticide Nets (LLINs) is seen as a major public health intervention and has shown to have both direct and indirect effects on the dynamics of malaria transmission. This report assessed the methods used by mothers to prevent malaria infection among their children under five years in the Hohoe Municipality. Method: A cross-sectional survey carried out in February 2017 among 418 mothers with children under five. Data were collected in the form of interviews using questionnaires on the usage of LLIN alone, LLIN with other methods (LLIN+) and use of other methods only (OMs). Chi square test and multinomial logistic regression were used to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. Results: Of the 418 mothers, 28.5% used LLIN only, 50.7% used LLIN+ and 20.8% used OMs only to prevent malaria. Mothers aged 30-39 and 40-49 years were 3.87 and 5.55 times more likely to use LLIN only rather than OMs as compared to those aged less than 20 years (AOR=3.87, p=0.019) and (AOR=5.55, p=0.029) respectively. Similarly, mothers aged 30-39 and 40-49 years were 3.08 and 4.02 times more likely to use LLIN+ rather than OMs as compared to those aged less than 20 years (AOR=3.08, p=0.023) and (AOR=4.02, p=0.050) respectively. Mothers who attained a higher level of education were 2.08 times more likely to use LLIN+ rather than OMs as compared to those with no formal education (AOR=2.08, p=0.015). Those who resided in rural areas were 2.00 times more likely to use LLIN only and LLIN+ rather than OMs only as compared to urban dwellers (AOR=2.00, p=0.002) and (AOR=2.00, p=0.013) respectively. Conclusion: More than half of the mothers preferred using LLIN+. One out of 3 mothers used only LLIN while one out of 5 used OMs only to prevent malaria. Age, educational level and place of residence were significantly associated with methods used to prevent malaria. There is the need for targeted education on LLINs in order to improve usage among younger mothers and mothers residing in urban areas. Further investigations to determine reasons for using OMs only and also determine the added value of OMs to LLINs in preventing malaria are recommended.
Mar 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-16-925
Darling K.E.A.Corresponding author
Infectious Diseases Service, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
Objectives Antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV acquisition has been shown to be safe and effective in populations at risk of HIV acquisition. We examined PrEP awareness, experience and acceptance among men who have sex with men (MSM) in southwest Switzerland. Methods Between 1st June 2011 and 31st August 2012, individuals attending 1) MSM screening clinics (Checkpoint Geneva) and 2) meeting areas were invited to complete an anonymous questionnaire covering sexual practices and PrEP awareness, experience and interest in participating in future PrEP trials. Results Of 918 men approached, 654 (71%) agreed to participate, the majority (536/654, 82%) enrolled via Checkpoint. Most participants (512/654, 78%) were homosexual; 21/654 (3.2%) disclosed being HIV-positive; 140/654 (21%) had unknown HIV status. Unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with a partner of different or unknown HIV status (non-serosorting) was practised by 49% of participants during the preceding year, more by participants of positive / unknown HIV status than by those negative / undisclosed status (68% vs 43%, P<0.001). Awareness of PrEP was reported in 42% (very aware in 17% and slightly aware in 25%); Checkpoint participants were more aware than those from other venues (47% versus 16%, P<0.001). PrEP experience was low (1.5%); 20% expressed interest in participating in future PrEP trials. Conclusions This is the first study exploring MSM PrEP awareness in Switzerland. Although overall awareness was 42%, interest in participating in future PrEP trials was low, against high frequencies of UAI and non-serosorting. If interest in using PrEP in practice is similar, alternative measures to curb HIV transmission are required in this population.
Jun 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-15-648
Immaculata UGWU NgoziCorresponding author
College of Health Sciences, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State
HIV/AIDS has become a global scourge affecting mainly young people. Sexual behavior change remains the most effective way of preventing further spread. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, perception and practice of safe lifestyles towards prevention of HIV infection among students of a tertiary educational institution in Abakaliki, south eastern, Nigeria. A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out, and participants were selected using multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using a pretested, self administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software, version 20. Three hundred and eighty seven participants were recruited for the study, including 199 (51.4%) males and 188 (48.6%) females. Mean age of participants was 23.6 ±2years. All (100%) of the participants were aware of the existence of HIV/AIDS, with the commonest source of information being electronic media (81.1%). Their knowledge of the routes of transmission and modes of prevention of HIV infection was high, though few of them have some misconceptions. Poor practice of safe lifestyles towards prevention of HIV infection as well as low perception of self-vulnerability to the risk of HIV infection was also found. There was poor practice of preventive lifestyles among the participants despite high knowledge of HIV transmission and preventive measures probably due to low perception of self-vulnerability to the risk of HIV infection. Health education should be intensified to impact sufficient comprehensive knowledge to change low perception of self-vulnerability among the students.
May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-14-416
Gnimbar PODA GhislainCorresponding author
National Council of HIV/AIDS (SP/CNLS-IST), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Objective: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) /acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) affect all levels of society and drivers are considered as vectors of HIV transmission because of the mobility of their work. The aim of this study was to assess struck drivers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices on HIV and AIDS in Burkina Faso. Methods: Quantitative method and cross-sectional survey using questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha 0.76 were used in this study. SPSS, version 18.0 was used for analysis. P-values ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: 150 truck drivers participated in the study with a mean age of 38.71 years (SD=8.87), and ranged from 25 to 68 years old. It was observed that misconceptions about HIV transmission are quite prevalent among truck drivers. About 61 (40.7%) felt that AIDS can be transmitted by sharing meals, 35 (23.3%) stated that it can be spread by mosquito bite and 65 (43.3%) were of the opinion that AIDS can be transmitted by using same toilet and cloths. High-risk behavior was established in the study. 78% have other sexual partners besides their wives and 34% often visit sex workers in which 26 % had unprotected sex with sex workers. Alcohol seems to have a big role in their sexual behavior; thus 22 % of truck drivers declare drink alcohol before sex. There were significant association in demographic factors and knowledge, attitude and practice. Conclusion: The study findings underline the negative risk behaviors of truck drivers. Safe sex and use of condom have to be promoted through education program among truck drivers in Burkina Faso.
Jul 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-168
Eaton AbigailCorresponding author
University of California, Berkeley, School of Public Health
This paper examines the association between intimate partner violence and the consistency of condom use in a US urban cohort of HIV-serodiscordant couples. It uses both male and female data from the California Partners Study II of a lower-income ethnically mixed cohort of 145 such couples in the San Francisco Bay Area. We observed a significant association between inconsistent condom use and physical abuse: the risk of inconsistent condom use was double for those experiencing physical abuse (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1, 4.1). Injection drug use and a history of bisexual behavior were also associated with inconsistent condom use. Physical abuse tended to be reciprocal between partners (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.9, 5.6). Our findings suggest that interventions effective in reducing intimate partner violence, and/or reducing the use of injection drugs in HIV-serodiscordant couples could lead to less transmission of HIV.
Jul 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-321
Ezinne Enwereji EzinnaCorresponding author
College of Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Abia State University Uturu, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria.
Background: The use of condoms in marriages is a complex decision. It however plays a role in prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The problem is, what factors and conditions determine consistent condom use among HIV positive women? This study aimed at identifying determinants of consistent condom use among HIV positive women cohabiting with their partners and attending ‘Heart to Heart’ treatment centre in Abia State University Teaching Hospital. Materials and Method: This longitudinal descriptive study was conducted among 248 married HIV positive women who attended ‘Heart to Heart’ treatment centre in the Abia State University Teaching Hospital from December 2012 to February 2013 and are cohabiting with their partners. Interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents. Data were analysed using SPSS version 17 software. Results: A total of 73(29.4%) of the respondents used condom consistently. Age, level of education, and desire for more children influenced condom use (OR 7.023., CI 2.050 – 24.047, P<0.001). The older the respondents, the more condom they used (OR 164.474, CI 21.477 – 1260.2, P<0.001). Also the more educated the respondents were, (tertiary, secondary) the more likely they used condom. Women who did not desire more children used condom more than those who desired more children (OR 13.612, CI 0.043-26.311, P<0.001). Women who had disclosed their HIV status to their spouses, used condom more than those who had not (OR 13.072, CI 5.836 – 29.253, P<0.001). Conclusion The fact thatonly 29.4% of the respondents used condom consistently with their spouses shows lack of awareness of the benefits of condom use. Health education which will stress the importance of using condom in preventing HIV transmission and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is recommended for HIV positive women and their spouses.
May 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-128
Elsa Larson H.Corresponding author
Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital
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.
Feb 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-211
Gust D.Corresponding author
Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
Recruitment of couples is important for study success. The multi-centered HPTN 052 clinical trial was designed to evaluate whether immediate versus delayed use of ART by HIV-infected individuals would reduce transmission of HIV to their HIV-uninfected partners. The objective of this study was to retrospectively compare several approaches for community recruitment at our site in Kisumu, Kenya based on a) feedback from recruitment staff, b) associated cost, and c) number of eligible couples enrolled. A secondary objective was to assess the discordant couples’ acceptability of the community recruitment approaches relative to the a) main recruitment venues, b) educational materials, and c) local language best suited for explaining the trial. 241 couples were screened for eligibility using nine recruitment approaches. We compared the approaches used for the 60 couples found to be eligible to those used for the 56 ineligible couples for whom that information was available. Analyses for association were carried out. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 staff and 29 discordant couples. Records were kept of the costs associated with each approach. Overall, staff interviews revealed that acceptability of the approaches was high. Challenges were present with all approaches ranging from one member of the couple not wanting to reveal their positive HIV status to their partner (Patient Support Center or PSC approach), to not finding people at home (home based counseling and testing or HBCT approach). The PSC and the HBCT recruitment approaches were the most effective in terms of recruiting eligible participants. There was an overall significant difference between the proportion of eligible and ineligible participants among the 9 approaches (χ2 (8) =33.5; p<0.0001). Analyses for association showed that the PSC approach resulted in attracting a greater proportion of couples who were eligible than ineligible (χ2 (1) =6.6; p=0.016). The cost for the PSC approach was less than one-third that of the HBCT approach. All discordant couples interviewed found the two main recruitment venues (PSC and their home) acceptable. Among couples who saw the educational materials, the majority found them useful (poster 72.7%; pamphlet 90.9%; flyer 88.9%). All couples found the language they were told about the study acceptable. The evaluation of recruitment approaches indicated that working with local partners, specifically the PSC staff and HBCT staff, was the most effective way to recruit eligible discordant couples. A focus on collaborations and partnerships between research and clinical organizations will help study recruitment efforts. Disclaimer: The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their respective institutions. Funding for this substudy was provided by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nov 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-227
Obiako ORCorresponding author
Departments of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika, Zaria Kaduna State.
Background: In Nigeria HIV infection is transmitted mainly through heterosexual route, affecting mostly individuals within reproductive age groups. As a result, HIV/AIDS education is advocated as a strong component of family and reproductive health education in the school curriculum which should emphasize responsible sexual behavior, premarital chastity and protective sexual practice. Aims/ Objectives: To evaluate student’s knowledge of HIV/AIDS, premarital HCT, and reactions to possible discordant HCT results. Methods: Cross sectional questionnaire-based study of 600 students in 6 schools in Zaria/Sabon Gari LGAs. Exclusion criteria: students aged ≤13 years, married, in JSS 1-3, SS1. Results: 550 students completed questionnaire (92% response rate). 54.5% females (ᾱ age =17.5 ±2.7 years) versus 45.5% males (16.5 ±2.7 years), Muslims (53%) and Christians (47%) respectively. 76%, 57%, and 38% knew the meaning of AIDS, HIV and VCT respectively; while all knew both the routes of HIV transmission and preventive measures. More than two-third supported voluntary, free and self initiated premarital HCT, preferably in a private and confidential setting. None would marry a discordant HIV positive partner, while 61% would marry themselves if both have positive HIV results. Conclusion: Many students would shun marriage with discordant HIV+ partner.