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Apr 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-25-5463
Fokou ElieCorresponding author
Iron deficiency is a major public health problem worldwide. It affects a significant proportion of the population, and is responsible for around 50% of anemia cases worldwide. Cameroon in general and Lekie Division in particular, is very highlyaffected by this problem. However, early detection of the problem can prevent the fatalities associated to it. The objective of this study was to provide up-to-date, detailed data on the markers of iron status in these populations, so that treatment can be better targeted. A two-month cross-sectional study was conducted in the Lekie Division in collaboration with local health centres in both urban and rural areas. The study sample consisted of 361 participants of all age groups and sexes. A questionnaire was issued to obtain information of the participants socio-demographic status, then 3 to 5ml of blood were collected and a number of markers of the participants iron status were studied. Of all the hematological markers studied, hemoglobin concentration in the study population was below normal in both men and women. Biochemical markers were good for all socio-demographic parameters. The mean values of biochemical and hematological markers in the population of the Lekie Division were good for all socio-demographic parameters, with the exception of hemoglobin concentration, which remains critical, requiring particular attention in this locality, but above all urgent intervention lest the situation aggravates further.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-0282.imsj-21-3899
Hawkins AnthonyCorresponding author
Loughine Ltd, Kincraig, Blairs, Aberdeen AB12 5YT, UK.
The stocks of the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in many rivers in North America and Europe have declined in recent years and are experiencing a crisis. Despite their high degree of legal protection, the quality of their aquatic environments within rivers and in the sea, including local coastal waters, appears to be deteriorating. Salmon survival, has declined both within the sea and within rivers. The status of the Atlantic salmon stocks is considered here, together with the adverse effects of different sources, and those steps that may need to be taken to improve the condition of the salmon. This paper is intended to assist management bodies in taking steps to resolve the problems that exist for salmon, both within rivers and in the sea. It makes particular use of information available on the River Dee in Scotland.
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.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-1198.jge-20-3515
Volobuev A.N.Corresponding author
Samara State Medical University. Department of Medical Physics. Samara, Russia
The solution of a genetic-mathematical problem of interaction of the human population cells and virus population to a problem of pandemic COVID-19 is submitted. The mathematical model based on the Hardy - Weinberg law consisting of two interdependent differential equations is used. The equations reflect time dynamics of the human cells and virus populations during their interaction. Solutions of the differential equations are found and results of these solutions are analyzed. The estimation of duration pandemic is received at use of parameters of the human liver cells and a flu virus.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-20-3257
Nsangou Amidou KpoumieCorresponding author
Department of Animal Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon
In order to contribute to the improvement of aquaculture production, reproductive parameters of three populations of Oreochromis niloticus of Cameroon were studied between March and May 2019 at the research station of Foumban. At this effect, a total of 81 parents (27 males and 51 females with respective weight 124 ± 6g and 144 ± 5g) coming from three hydrogeographicals origins (Niger, Sanaga and IRAD Station) were randomly distributed in triplicate in nine concrete tanks of a m² each with a sex ratio of one male for two females (1♂/2♀). Throughout the test, six females carrying eggs in the oral cavity were collected in each population and 45 days after the start of the trial, all the offspring were collected and the adults sacrificed. At the end of experiment, the IRAD population presented highest significant values (p ≤ 0.05) regardless of the performances considered. The values of the gonado-somatic and the gonado-metric characteristics significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) were obtained in Niger population (GSR = 0.04 ± 0.02, GSI = 0.05 ± 0.03 and GMR=0.19 ± 0.08;GMI= 0.24±0.07). Considering sex, males presented the lowest significant values (p ≤ 0.05) for all the characteristics studied (GSR = 0.04±0.01, GSI = 0.04±0.01 and GMR= 0.23±0.08;GMI= 0.29±0.09).
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-19-3092
S. Tsingotjidou AnastasiaCorresponding author
Laboratory of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GR-541 24, Greece
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder characterized mainly by uncontrolled accrual of M- immunoglobulin, secreted by malignant lymphoplasmatic cells. Mast cells interacting with malignant B-cells play an important role at the manifestation of the disease. Utilizing a previous xenotransplantation mouse model, this study evaluates long-term implant viability and quantifies distinct bone marrow mast cell populations along with their dynamics in non-WM and WM human bone implants. Non-WM bone implants were obtained from the femoral head of adult humans undergoing hip arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty, whereas WM human bone implants originated from bone biopsies obtained from the posterior iliac crest of patients with active WM. All bone particles were implanted intramuscularly in twenty-four NOD/SCID mice. Following 3, 4 or 8 months postoperatively, xenografts were removed and studied using special histological techniques to identify mature and immature mast cells. Xenografts survived up to 8 months after implantation presenting normal cytoarchitecture (non-WM) or high-grade neoplastic infiltration and microresorption (WM bone biopsies). Statistical analysis of mast cell populations showed significant elevation regarding time progression and bone marrow microenvironment, thus suggesting the possible influence of malignant cells to the mast cell population in WM. This study presents the extended survival of intramuscular implantation of human adult bone xenografts into NOD/SCID mice and provides additional information on the interaction between mast cells and malignant B-cells.
May 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-18-2062
Fujii TaichiCorresponding author
Graduate School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chubu University, 1200 Matsumoto-cho, Kasugai, Aichi, 487-8501, Japan
Estimates of the genetic diversity of Large Japanese field mouse Apodemusspeciosus populations and identification of their plant food resources were conducted in an industrial green space, where were constructed on reclaimed land and belonged to the Aichi Refinery of Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. A total of six mitochondrial D-loop haplotypes were identified in 50 mice. Habitat condition with the highest number of captured individuals had abundant broad-leaved trees and understory vegetation. A minimum spanning network, which did not form a ring-shaped network, revealed that the hereditary population structure was weak. The low genetic diversity observed in the study area was thus attributed to isolation from other populations once the population in the study area by sea and road, which is more than 30 m wide. In order to identify which plant food resources were utilized by mice captured inside the industrial green space, partial chloroplast rbcL sequences were amplified by PCR from DNA extracted from 43 feces samples. Calculations of sample completeness curve revealed that 25 of the taxa identified in this study comprised approximately 90% of the food plant resources in the study area. Of the 21 plant families identified from the obtained rbcL sequences, members of the Rosaceae (28.0%), Fagaceae (17.2%), Lauraceae (14.2%) and Oleaceae (7.7%) were dominant. To ensure the continued survival of A. speciosuspopulation in this industrial green space would be to preferentially conserve plant species that are used as food resources by this species.
Mar 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2994-6743.ijstd-26-6060
Francesco Amadeo PierCorresponding author
Objective To describe the clinical features and real-world treatment of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) using fixed-dose or free combinations of 2-drug regimens (2DR) of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Design Italian retrospective cohort study. Methods Data were extracted from PLHIV who initiated or switched to 2DR: Group 1 (fixed dose), Group 2 (free combination). Results Group 1 was younger and more predominantly male, and had shorter time from AIDS-defining diagnosis to 2DR-ART and from diagnosis to baseline, a lower prevalence of resistance, and fewer comorbidities than Group 2. Median baseline viral load was <50 copies/mL in both groups, but Group 1 had a higher mean due to outliers. The most common ART classes before switching to 2DR were Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor (INSTI)-based (48.97%), Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NNRTI)-based (22.73%), and Protease Inhibitor (PI)-based (16.53%). Distribution varied: Group 1: INSTI-based (53.13%), NNRTI-based (24.31%), and PI-based (15.04%); Group 2: INSTI-based (29.41%), PI-based (23.53%), and NNRTI-based (15.29%). After switching, Group 1 was on dolutegravir/lamivudine (79,33%) and dolutegravir/rilpivirine (20,67%); Group 2 mostly on INSTI-PI (52.81%), followed by NNRTI combinations, mainly with doravirine (19.10%). Duration of ART after switching was shorter in Group 1. Conclusion Italian PLHIV on 2DR fixed-dose combinations were younger, virologically suppressed individuals at baseline, with a shorter lead time from diagnosis, lower prevalence of resistance and lower comorbidity rate compared to those on free combinations. These findings underscore an unmet need for 2DR fixed-dose combinations, as the free combinations were predominantly utilized for more challenging populations.
Feb 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-25-5944
Y. Berezin MikhailCorresponding author
Background Oxaliplatin, a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, is associated with hematologic toxicities such as anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Despite their clinical relevance, the molecular mechanisms underlying lineage-specific bone marrow suppression remain poorly understood. Methods We administered oxaliplatin to mice over eight weeks and performed RNA-sequencing (RNA integrity >8) on bone marrow alongside peripheral blood analysis and cytokine profiling. Transcriptomic data were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enriched pathways. For that, we applied a thematic Gene Ontology (thematicGO) enrichment method that groups GO terms into biologically meaningful categories, such as hematopoietic lineage disruption, cell cycle arrest, and cytokine signaling. Results Oxaliplatin induced broad transcriptional suppression of erythropoiesis and lymphopoiesis, with 3,691 DEGs identified (FDR<0.05, |FC|>1.5). Upregulation of Cdkn1a and downregulation of E2f2 suggest G1/S cell cycle arrest, correlating with repression of key erythroid maturation genes (e.g., Spta1, Slc4a1, Alas2) and hemoglobin subunits (Hba-a1/2, Hbb-bs/t). Despite a ~3000-fold increase in renal Epo expression, bone marrow Epor was reduced, indicating erythropoietin resistance. B and T cell markers were also significantly downregulated, signifying a collapse in adaptive immunity. Notably, neutrophil populations were largely spared. Cytokine analysis in plasma revealed a pro-inflammatory shift with elevated TNF-α and reduced TGF-β, potentially exacerbating hematopoietic dysfunction. Conclusions Oxaliplatin induces a lineage-dependent suppression of hematopoiesis, driven by coordinated cell cycle arrest, metabolic stress, and disrupted cytokine signaling. RNA-seq analysis enabled integration of transcriptomic findings into coherent biological themes. These findings provide mechanistic insights into oxaliplatin’s hematologic toxicity linking bone marrow failure (potentially reversible) via interconnected inflammatory and metabolic pathways and may inform therapeutic strategies to minimize or restore myelosuppression in cancer patients.
Feb 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-25-5885
Jia NingCorresponding author
Background Depression, increasingly recognized as a critical factor impacting mental health, notably affects various populations, including teachers. This study aimed to delineate the specific characteristics of depressive symptom networks among Chinese teachers, identify the core symptoms of depression within this demographic, and examine the variations in depressive symptom networks across different genders and teaching stages. Method The study encompassed 1,670 teachers. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Central symptoms were identified through centrality indices. Network stability was examined via a case-dropping procedure. Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAG) was used to identify the activating symptoms. Results “Personal devaluation” exhibited the highest and most stable centrality values in the network. “Depressed Affect” and “Emptiness of Life” were identified as the activating symptoms in the network. No significant differences were observed in the network structure and global strength of depression between teachers of different genders. However, significant differences in the network’s global strength were found between junior and senior high school teachers. Conclusion “Personal devaluation” emerged as the core depressive symptoms among teachers in China. “Depressed Affect” and “Emptiness of Life” serve as the gateways that activate the entire teacher depression network. Paying close attention to these symptoms could potentially alleviate the experiences of depression in this demographic.
Jan 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-6403.jtrr-25-5922
Kalmeta MargaretCorresponding author
Diabetic foot and leg ulcers represent a significant global health burden and are frequently associated with peripheral neuropathy, vascular compromise, infection, and high rates of recurrence and amputation. Standard wound care often fails to achieve healing in chronic cases due to unaddressed underlying neuropathic and vascular pathology. This feasibility study evaluated the Hemastyl™ System in patients with long-standing diabetic foot and leg ulcers that had failed standard care and, in many cases, had been diagnosed for amputation. Two prospective feasibility cohorts comprising 39 chronic infected diabetic wounds were treated with the Hemastyl™ System. Outcomes included rapid microbe reduction, high wound closure rates, subjective improvement in neuropathy-related symptoms, and avoidance of amputation in all amputation-diagnosed cases. These findings suggest that targeting neuropathy, vasculature, and microbial burden concurrently may offer a promising approach for healing complex chronic wounds in high-risk populations.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5886
Y. Talbert PatriciaCorresponding author
Objective Diabetes poses significant public health challenges, with many individuals remaining undiagnosed and at risk of complications. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of decision tree ensemble methods for predicting diabetes onset using the Framingham Heart Study Teaching Dataset and to explore sex-specific risk patterns relevant to AI-driven interventions. Methods We analyzed data from 11,627 participants, incorporating demographics, vital signs, smoking status, medication use, and laboratory measures. Random Forest classifiers were developed to predict diabetes incidence at approximately 6-year (Period 2) and 12-year (Period 3) follow-ups. Class imbalance was addressed using undersampling, oversampling, and the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE). Results The models demonstrated robust performance, achieving an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.856 in Period 2, and moderate predictive ability in Period 3 (AUC = 0.732 in males, 0.786 in females). Key predictors included glucose level, BMI, systolic blood pressure, age, and heart rate. Notably, differences emerged in predictive accuracy between men and women, suggesting potential sex-specific vulnerabilities that merit further study. Conclusion Machine learning approaches, particularly Random Forests, show promise for medium- and long-term diabetes risk prediction, supporting early identification and intervention efforts. Future work should focus on hyperparameter tuning and explainability techniques, such as SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values, to improve model precision, interpretability, and fairness. Equity-focused strategies remain critical to ensure AI-driven tools benefit diverse populations and do not exacerbate existing disparities in diabetes care.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-25-5595
S GopalakrishnanCorresponding author
Andipalayam Lake, a freshwater body located in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, plays a significant role in sustaining the local ecosystem, particularly through its diverse insect populations. This study aims to document and analyze the insect biodiversity present in and around Andipalayam Lake, focusing on the ecological roles these species play in maintaining the lake’s health. Insects are key components of aquatic ecosystems, contributing to processes such as pollination and nutrient cycling and serving as prey for higher trophic levels. Despite their ecological importance, studies on the insect biodiversity of Andipalayam Lake have been limited, prompting the need for an extensive survey. This research employed a combination of sweep nets, pitfall traps, and light traps to collect insect species over a year, covering various seasons to capture population dynamics and seasonal variations. Water quality parameters, such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen, were monitored to assess their influence on insect diversity. The study identified over 38 species of insects from diverse orders, including Odonata (dragonflies), Diptera (flies), Coleoptera (beetles), and Hemiptera (true bugs). Seasonal variations were observed, with higher species richness during the monsoon period due to increased vegetation and moisture levels. The most abundant species were found to belong to Diptera and Coleoptera, indicating their adaptability to fluctuating water levels. Environmental factors such as pollution from nearby agricultural runoff and urban development were found to negatively affect insect diversity, with a notable decline in sensitive species during periods of increased contamination.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5715
Couture LucyCorresponding author
Recruitment for research studies focused on communicable diseases such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has historically been challenging, particularly among populations who have been underrepresented in media messaging, yet maintain a significant vulnerability to new HIV cases, like Black women. This study examines the recruitment strategies utilized in Aim 2 of pilot study at the University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHealth) in Houston, Texas that was funded by the Ujima Mentoring Program to develop, implement, and evaluate a video log (vlog)-based intervention. The overarching goal of the pilot study was to promote the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among cisgender Black women in Harris County, Texas. Aim 2 involved the creation of a culturally relevant vlog for use in Aim 3, which sought to educate and motivate participants to consider PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy. With the growing role of digital platforms in public health outreach, social media was employed alongside traditional recruitment methods such as flyers and word-of-mouth referrals. Despite an expanded online reach, engagement remained low, and participation rates did not increase proportionally to the number of individuals who viewed recruitment materials. The reluctance to participate was largely attributed to stigma surrounding HIV and concerns about being publicly associated with an HIV prevention study based on participants feedback to the research team. Even the availability of research incentives to encourage participation did not significantly improve recruitment accrual goals, particularly among healthcare providers who experienced limitations with eligibility due to institutional policies. This study underscores the need to better understand the social and cultural barriers that prevent Black women and healthcare providers from engaging in HIV prevention research. While digital recruitment strategies can enhance visibility to a larger audience, they must be supported with trust-building efforts, community partnerships, and culturally competent messaging to encourage meaningful participation. These findings point to the critical need for multi-faceted recruitment strategies that go beyond social media campaigns and actively build trust within communities, ensuring that HIV prevention research and interventions are both accessible and culturally resonant.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-5209.ijen-25-5602
Lassaad MdellelCorresponding author
Chemical insecticides have been the primary method used by farmers to control pests. However, their negative environmental impacts, harmful effects on beneficial insects and human health, and prohibition in organic farming systems have driven the search for natural alternatives with insecticidal properties. These alternatives provide a safer and more sustainable way to control insect pests. Medicinal plants and their constituents play an important role in pest management. For example, ginger (Zingiber officinale) extracts contain bioactive compounds with insecticidal activities. The objective of this work was to track the population of the green peach aphid (Myzuspersicae) on pepper crops in a greenhouse, identify the active ingredients in ginger extracts, and evaluate the insecticidal effects of three concentrations of ginger-derived aqueous and essential oil extracts against M. persicae on pepper plants under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. The results demonstrate that M. persicae grows rapidly on pepper crops under greenhouse conditions, reaching high densities on leaves. The ginger extract contains two active ingredients with insecticidal effects against this pest. The significant reduction in aphid (M. persicae) populations indicates that Z. officinale aqueous extract (150 mL/L) and essential oil (2 mL/L) have strong potential for the biological control of this pest under greenhouse conditions. Thus, the use of ginger plant extract emerges as a promising alternative for reducing M. persicae infestations on pepper plants.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-5209.ijen-24-5325
G.W MbauCorresponding author
Strawberry is a commercially important crop which has gained global significance in terms of production and consumption. The strawberry farmers have been faced with economic losses due to attack from arthropod and phytophagus pests. To overcome this challenge, management of pests is important with reduced impact on beneficial organisms and the environment. Use of non-chemical approaches as an alternative to insecticide driven management is highly gaining popularity. Identification of the non-chemical production for management of strawberry pest such as entomopathogenic fungi and botanicals is critical. The need for compatibility of entomopathogenic fungi in crop production techniques with other insecticides to enhance efficacy is required. The interaction between these control agents could be synergistic, additive or even antagonistic. Synergistic interactions usually lead to enhanced effectiveness of the microbial control agents while reducing the adverse effects of the pesticides in combination. In this review a description of the compatibility of entomopathogenic fungus Beauvaria bassiana and botanical neem in strawberry pest management is given. The experiment involved five treatments: Neemraj, Beauvitech, Neemraj and Beauvitech, Ampligo and control. These treatments were allocated in a completely Randomized design in two separate greenhouse setups one with soil and other with pumice. The treatments were replicated four times. The data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model (GLM) procedure of the statistical analysis system (SAS) program, version 9.1. Tukey’s (HSD) test at P≤ 0.05 was used to separate significant means. The combination of Neemraj and Beauvitech was most effective in the management of pests in both hydroponics and soil grown media. Pest populations were reduced significantly as follows; thrips, Frankliniella spp 2.1, red spider mites Tetranychus species 11.5, tarnished plant bug Lygus species 3.0, there was 0% cricket Gryllus species damage and 0 number strawberry weevil in hydroponics cultures while in soil culture pest mean populations were: thrips 5.6, spider mites Tetranychus species 18.2, strawberry weevil (Otiorhynchus species) 7.0, tarnished plant bug 3.0 and there was 13.8% cricket Gryllus species damage on strawberry plants.
Aug 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-24-5108
Zakaria Baniamer AnsamCorresponding author
Hereditary thrombotic diseases, or inherited bleeding disorders, are a group of genetic conditions that disrupt normal blood coagulation. These diseases result from mutations in genes encoding blood coagulation factors or other regulatory proteins, impairing the body's ability to regulate bleeding and clotting. The most common inherited clotting disorders are hemophilia A and B, which are associated with deficiencies in clotting factors VIII and IX, respectively. Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is another prevalent disorder characterized by a deficiency or dysfunction of the Von Willebrand factor, a protein essential for coagulation. Additionally, the Factor V Leiden mutation is linked to an increased risk of blood clots. The prevalence of inherited coagulation disorders varies significantly by region and subpopulation. It is estimated that 5,000 to 10,000 male newborns are born with hemophilia A or B each year. Von Willebrand disease is much more common, affecting about 1% of the global population. The Factor V Leiden mutation is found in significant percentages of certain populations, with 3–8% of Caucasians being carriers. While antithrombin deficiency is more common in some areas, the incidence of other inherited clotting disorders, such as Factor XI, protein C and S deficiencies, and VWD, varies widely worldwide. This study discusses the incidence of inherited clotting disorders and their impact on affected individuals and their families. It also covers new advancements in disease management, alternative therapy approaches, and contemporary diagnostic techniques, aiming to improve diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes for patients with hereditary clotting disorders.
Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-24-5017
V K SashindranCorresponding author
Background Frailty is an ageing-associated state linked to poor prognostic outcomes. Chronic inflammation due to HIV-infection, AIDS-related infections. and the adverse effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) all contribute to frailty in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA). Frailty has been comprehensively studied in populations comprising predominantly of Caucasian PLHA. However, there remains a dearth of such data in Indian populations, especially in younger PLHA. Methodology This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of frailty in PLHA (18 - 50 years) who had been on ART for 24-60 months and identify markers linked to frailty. Frailty was assessed in 152 subjects using the Fried frailty-index. Parameters measured included the mid-upper arm and calf circumferences, pain-severity (using the Brief Pain Inventory), highly-sensitivity C-reactive protein, d-dimer, and interleukin-6. Results The prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty were 6.58% and 23.02%, respectively. Reduced grip strength and self-reported exhaustion were associated with frailty (15.79% and 13.16%, respectively). Low calf-circumference and mid-upper arm circumference were not significantly associated with frailty/pre-frailty. The prevalence of pain was 21.7% and both pain severity and pain interference were significantly associated with frailty/pre-frailty. CD-4 counts at the time of assessment showed an inverse association with frailty. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP of 0.04 associated with 0.49 probability of frailty (95% CI 0.40 – 0.59), CRP of 0.12 associated with 0.63 probability of frailty (95% CI 0.47 – 0.76)). D-dimer levels were not significantly associated with frailty /pre-frailty. Conclusion In this first-of-its-kind study on frailty in young PLHA (mean age 37 years) from the Indian sub-continent, the prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty was 6.58% and 23.02%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed a strong association of frailty with pain severity, CD4 count at time of assessment, hs-CRP levels and duration of ART.
Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-24-5150
H.C DaviesCorresponding author
The instructional techniques in neuroanatomy laboratories continue to evolve to incorporate online interactive resources to improve student experience and outcomes. This study aims to design an “all in one”Virtual Interactive Brain Atlas (VIBA) that provides students with an educational resource that will improve their knowledge of neuroanatomy while in the brain lab and provide them with lab resources they can self-study and self-test. Coronal, midsagittal, whole brain, and horizontal brain slices were used to create detailed descriptions, interactive features, and quiz assessments to create VIBA. Upper level undergraduate and optometry students taking a neuroanatomy one-semester course were provided with VIBA for use during the semester. A paper survey was distributed after completing the course to determine student perception. No significant difference was indicated between the student groups regarding their self-reported understanding prior to the brain lab (p= 0.194) and after the brain lab (p= 0.308). There was a significant difference between the student populations when stating that they strongly agreed that the online brain atlas improved their understanding of neuroanatomy (p= 0.032) and that the VIBA tool was easy to navigate (p=0.048). There was a significant difference between the two student groups that strongly agreed that the online brain atlas quality was sufficient (p= 0.015). This online interactive brain atlas was created in a time-efficient manner from readily available models and was well received by experienced neuroanatomy faculty and students.
Jan 2024
Manga SeleneCorresponding author
Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is the most urgent public health problem to solve in Peru, according to the Ministry of Health 1. In the WHO Global TB Report 2021, Peru has the highest burden of DR-TB in the Americas (Table 1), with 38% of TB cases either RR or MDR. In addition, the Ministry reports an estimated prevalence rate of DR-TB of 5.7% in new cases and 24.2% in previously treated cases. A total of 2493 new cases of DR-TB were reported in 2022, with 18.5% treatment dropout in 2019 believed to have increased by at least 52% in 2022 1. The post-pandemic context has created additional challenges for the control of DR-TB in Peru. A complex multiplicity of factors connects this disease to groups with high vulnerability, such as populations in extreme poverty and overcrowding or deprived of freedom; those who have immune system disorders, such as HIV and diabetes; and isolated indigenous populations.
Oct 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-23-4532
Abda Neja SultanCorresponding author
Camels are a significant source of income for nomadic populations in many developing countries, including Ethiopia. Camels are well adapted to dry and semi-dry regions, providing income, food security, and transportation. However, camel production and productivity are constrained by infectious diseases, such as brucellosis, which is a highly infectious bacterial disease that affects camels and humans worldwide. Brucellosis causes significant economic losses due to abortion, low herd fertility, and decreased milk production. In Ethiopia, the prevalence of camel brucellosis varies depending on factors related to the host, agent, climate, and management system, with a reported prevalence ranging from 0.5% to 11.9%. Accurate diagnosis of camel Brucellosis is essential for herd-based screening of animals. Although culturing the pathogen is the preferred method for diagnosis, serological tests such as Rose-Bengal plate test (RBPT), Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Complement fixation test (CFT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays have been developed. Implementing effective diagnosis and surveillance systems to control the spread of brucellosis in animals and humans is very important, on top of awareness campaigns, vaccination programs, and suitable laboratory establishment recommended. Continued research is essential to maintain the health and productivity of camel populations, particularly in pastoral areas where camels play a significant role in the livelihood of communities. Therefore, the present paper views the seropositive prevalence and potential risk factors associated with camel brucellosis in Ethiopia.
Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn2474-9273.jbtm-23-4712
Erika HumphreysCorresponding author
The effectiveness of treating anxiety with Reiki is explored within ten quantitative studies. Methodology utilized for a critical appraisal and systematic review of the literature is explained with inclusion and exclusion criteria. Theoretical framework for the project is grounded in the work of Hildegard Peplau, whose nursing theory based on the therapeutic use of self is foundational for Reiki implementation. A thorough critique of the literature is conducted for key components of robustness and believability. This critique is conducted using a structured guide addressing synthesized strengths and weaknesses of the body of literature. A synthesis of the literature explores the findings of the studies. This synthesis reports on Reiki’s effectiveness in treating anxiety within a variety of patient settings and populations, its effect on subscales of anxiety, physiological manifestations of anxiety and pain associated with anxiety. Cultural considerations effecting Reiki’s potential effectiveness are discussed. Gaps in the literature are examined, including the studies’ narrow sample population, lack of participant exclusionary factors for controlled outcome data, and the lack of studies across time. Implications for future research are discussed with recommendations for expanded research that includes a broader variety of settings, age groups, and patient diagnoses, including anxiety disorders, for research data that is transferable. Implications for further practice for the advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) are explored, with the potential benefits for both providers and patients, including improved patient satisfaction and expansion of provider treatment modalities.
May 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-5014.jphn-23-4555
Kathryn DohertyCorresponding author
Severe ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) deficiency, commonly known as “scurvy,” continues to be a problem in malnourished populations across the world but is relatively rare in the United States. Early features of this condition include general weakness, fatigue, and aching limbs. An extremely rare and late feature of this condition is subgaleal hemorrhage. Scurvy has such a low prevalence in First World countries that it is often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all. The subject in this case report presented acutely and is one of few to involve a subgaleal hemorrhage to be documented in medical literature to date. Laboratory studies and clinical improvement through treatment established the diagnosis. Ascorbic acid deficiency should be considered when evaluating children with poor nutrition despite socioeconomic status, living conditions, or access to health care. This case also reminds us that neurodivergent children are a vulnerable population and more research will need to be conducted to determine just how detrimental the pandemic has been to patients with ongoing problems who were lost to follow up.
Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4441
Phadke MrudulaCorresponding author
A practical review compares growth chart standards and references for pediatric monitoring after the COVID era. It advises on selection, interpretation, and equity considerations in diverse populations.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-22-4217
O. Henderson JeffreyCorresponding author
Department of Science and Mathematics, Judson University, Elgin, IL 60123, USA
Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the HEXA gene, which encodes the ɑ subunit of the enzyme β-hexosaminidase A. Lacking this key enzyme in GM2 ganglioside catabolism, individuals who are homozygous for HEXA mutations suffer from abnormal accumulation of GM2 ganglioside in brain and nerve cells, ultimately resulting in the progressive deterioration of the central nervous system. TSD is one of three disorders characterized by β-hexosaminidase deficiency; Sandhoff disease (SD) and the AB variant arise by mutations in the HEXB and GM2A genes respectively, which disrupt other points of GM2 ganglioside degradation. Characterized by developmental delay and stagnation, muscular weakness, coordination deficits, seizures, and eventual hearing and vision loss, these three disorders are clinically indistinguishable and occur in three forms defined by age of onset. While there is a much higher incidence of TSD in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, community carrier screening and counseling initiatives have reduced disease prevalence to about the equivalent of non-Jewish populations; however, such efforts have raised ethical concerns in the Jewish community that are increasingly relevant in light of scientific and medical advancements. Currently, treatments for TSD and its related disorders focus on symptom management, with gene therapies and the application of modified CRISPR-Cas-9 technology being explored.
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-22-4191
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Columbia University, Teachers College New York, USA.
Background The origin of osteoarthritis, the most common disabling disorder of older adults remains uncertain. Aim This mini review examines the possible role played by various neuromuscular deficits in the osteoarthritis etiopathogenic process. Methods and Procedures Articles that haveaddressed the current topic of interest and were located in the PUBMED,Google Scholar, and Web of Science electronic data bases as of 2017-2022 were carefully sought and examined. Results Various neuromuscular mechanisms may have a bearing on the development and progression of osteoarthritis, but the data are largely unrelated and observational in nature. Conclusion More research to examine this issue is sorely needed and could have considerable merit in light of the growing populations of older adults at risk for disabling osteoarthritis in the face of few intervention options to help them to achieve an optimal functional level.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3979
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.
Background Aging, a state often associated with poor emotional health status greatly impedes life quality and independence for many. Aim This mini review examines the potential of the concept of positive psychology as an active approach to fostering successful or more successful, rather than suboptimal aging. Methods and Procedures Articles that addressed the current topic of interest and were located in the PUBMED, Medline, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Google Scholar electronic data bases were carefully sought and analyzed and presented in narrative form. Results Various forms of positive psychology appear to provide a safe efficacious evidence based approach for purposes of ameliorating various degrees of anxiety and depression and for improving cognition, life quality, and health well-being in diverse subgroups of older adults Conclusion More research to examine who might benefit most from this highly promising form of intervention, and in what respect appears to have considerable merit in light of the growing populations of older adults and few intervention options to help them to age optimally and as successfully as possible.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-20-3662
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, NY 10027, United States
Background Most current Corona virus or COVID-19 pandemic deaths have been found to occur among populations older than 65 years of age, who often suffer from the presence of an array of chronic diseases that may be related to a co-occurring vitamin D deficiency. Another factor affecting older adults’ immune response mechanisms is air quality. In turn, air quality can impact the absorption of vitamin D from sunlight sources, a factor which could explain why older people, who are often vitamin D deficient, may be more likely than younger adults or healthy adults to be at risk for COVID-19 and poor outcomes. Aim This work was designed to examine the recent literature on COVID-19, vitamin D and air pollution and what it might imply for public health workers, policy makers, and others. Methods Available data accessed largely from the PUBMED data base for the year 2020 using the key words COVID-19, air pollution, and vitamin D deficiency were sought and selected items were carefully examined and documented in narrative and tabular formats. Results Many publications on COVID-19 prevail, but far fewer focus specifically on vitamin D deficiency and its possible role in explaining COVID-19 global health risk among older adults. A similar, albeit small number of publications, discuss the global pandemics of air pollution and its possible COVID-19 association, as well as its impact on vitamin D production. However, while most related articles support a possible independent as well as a dual role for both factors in COVID-19 the realm of this highly infectious widespread disease, very few actual studies have been conducted to date on any of these topical issues Conclusion More research to examine if vitamin D-based nutrients or supplements may provide some degree of community wide protection against COVID-19 in the older vitamin D populations, especially among those living in highly polluted areas may prove highly valuable. Controlling air pollution emissions globally and locally may also prove to be a highly impactful public health approach to reducing overall COVID-19 risk, and extent, and warrants study.
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.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-20-3545
Ezinna E EnwerejiCorresponding author
Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria
Public health professionals working in rural communities are aware of the health disparities which result from lack of physicians, limited services, and income during the pandemic. Also they are aware that some populations are more vulnerable than others. People in the rural areas are experiencing problems on their physical, social and economic life styles because the pandemic is exacerbating some inequities. Individuals especially women and children in the rural areas are facing barriers in accessing health care services due to lack of resources and availability of health care providers in the communities. With COVID-19, women are less likely to seek services, including sexual and reproductive health services. Such services may be postponed to limit exposure to COVID-19 infection. This is particularly disturbing because in addition to the women maintaining their own health, they are also responsible for taking care of the mental, emotional and physical health needs of their families as well as all domestic responsibilities. As such, women in rural settings face special challenges as a result of these significant roles they play. Therefore, the impacts of COVID-19 are exacerbated on women by virtue of their sex and the roles they play in the family. This is a qualitative study that reviewed the reports of the 36 health care professionals under the aegis of members of COVID-19 committee working in partnership with state government to control, prevent and cushion the effects of COVID-19 in the society. This study is therefore, a summary of the observations of the COVID-19 committee members made up of 10(27.8%) females and 26(72.2%) males. The study focused on exploring how individual lifestyles in the rural areas have been affected in the face of COVID- 19 pandemic by identifying the vulnerabilities in social, political and economic systems which can amplify the impacts of the pandemic. Findings showed that preventive measures like lockdown and social distancing rules, wearing of face mask, hand washing with soap, and environmental cleanliness were not observed. The study noted that health seeking behaviours, sexual and marital life including income, education, employment and social interactions were all negatively affected. Most hospitals were battered and health care professionals boycotted the hospitals for fear of being infected. It was found that lack of health workers in the hospitals caused a good number of individuals to engage in self-medications. Also most pregnant women delivered their babies at home and few with traditional birth attendants. Some of the women who had deliveries at home experienced complications during and after delivery. Unfortunately, the report showed that governments’ financial supports to these women and their family members were insignificant as the government was more concerned with mitigating the spread of COVID-19 than assisting women to have safe deliveries. Therefore, the vulnerable groups especially women, children, and the elderly who experienced threats to their safety and wellbeing as a result of the services that were disrupted during the pandemic, should be assisted so as not to lose their lives to preventable diseases.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3363
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
Rapid analyses methods for the assessment of soil microbiota are lacking. In a commercial farm tomato plants were subjected to different fertilization strategies: 1. mineral Control (C); 2. Organic amendment (O); 3. Organic amendment + Micosat F © biofertilizer (OM). A first rapid method (Litterbag-NIRS) concerned hay litterbags coupled with a smart SCiOTM device. A second method (Foliar-NIRS) used the same device on the leaves. The plants showed positive responses to the amendment and biofertilization in the yield: C 60.5.1 t ha-1vs. 70.8 in O (+17%) and 74.2 in OM (+23% from C and + 5% (P 0.08) from O). The use of Litterbag-NIRS fingerprinting, completed with litterbags phenotyping and elaborated with a multivariate support vector machine classifier provided a similar knowledge to that obtained from microbial and chemical analyses of the soil. The reason for this response is that the analyses were embedded in the Litterbag-NIRS at medium-high precision. A polydromic function was hypothesized in order to disentangle the activities of different soil microbial populations from each other. The organic amendment delayed the functionality of the rapid r-strategist microbial populations, but at the same time activated slow k-strategists to intake the walls of the hay inside the litterbags. In this sense, the Litterbag-NIRS test can provide an effective “swamp” of the microbial fertility of the soil. Briefly, the Litterbag-NIRS coupled with Foliar-NIRS accounted for 95% of the average yield results, and both are therefore recommended for a rational assessment of microbial soil fertility.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-20-3306
Abul-Fadl AzzaCorresponding author
Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Introduction The Corona virus (CoVID-19) pandemic has hit the most developed countries and has thence spread to inflict other countries around the world. It is the first pandemic that appears in countries not linked to poverty and poor hygiene. Aim To study the relationship between human development and the pattern of the pandemic caused by the CoVID-19 and to identify development indicators that can be useful in monitoring the pandemic. Methods Data collected included confirmed cases of CoVID-19 by country, number of cases that recovered and cases that died and population density per million in this particular country. The data for this information was obtained from the online data on the daily reports on CoVID-19 from the different countries. Data for the Human Development index (HDI) and the ranking for each country were obtained from the most recent United Nations Development of Populations (UNDP) report for 2019. We analyzed data for 166 countries for which the HDI was available for the date of cases reported online on 27th March, 2020 at midnight. Findings There were significant differences by ANOVA for the confirmed cases of CoVID19 cases and total cases per one million population between the countries in the 4 tier group of Human Development. HDI was significantly correlated with confirmed cases, case density and cases that died from CoVID-19 (P<0.01) for all countries but the significance decreased by tier group. Country ranking was inversely correlated with confirmed cases of CoVID-19 (r-0.25 at P=0.001), CoVID-19 cases per million (r-0.4 at P=0.000) and cases that died from CoVID-19 (r-0.2 at P=0.03). Recovery was not inked to HDI or country ranking. The upper HDI tier groups (very high, high and medium) showed significant correlations with total cases per one million population P<0.05, but no correlation was found with confirmed cases or cases that died or recovered from CoVID-19 P>0.05. Conclusions Total cases of CoVID-19 per one million population seems to be a better indicator of the pandemic. The pattern of spread is closely linked to industry.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-20-3161
Sedky KarimCorresponding author
Psychiatry Residency Director and Medical Student Education Director, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University
Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a circadian rhythm disorder where individuals experience difficulty modifying the time they go to sleep and wake up in response to environmental changes. The circadian rhythm itself is regulated by a variety of clock genes, and various other genes (e.g., AA-NAT gene, CKIϵ gene) code for proteins that regulate clock genes. Various polymorphisms of the clock gene influencers have been shown to increase susceptibility to DSPS. This paper seeks to examine how certain cultural characteristics (e.g., napping, timing of meals, exposure to artificial light) and the presence of the AA-NAT gene (G619A polymorphism) and the CKIϵ gene (S408N polymorphism) influence the prevalence of DSPS amongst Japanese and Brazilian populations.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2175.jdrt-20-3274
L. Chiou WinCorresponding author
Chiou Consulting Inc, 8552 Johnston Road, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527, United States
Pharmacodynamic modeling of sunscreens was performed using a new concept of Skin UV Index (SUI) on the exposed skin as a parameter to evaluate the potential effectiveness of sunscreens against sun damage. The SUI predicts the UV heat intensity on the skin surface in terms of the solar UV Index at the time of the study and is calculated by solar UV Index/sunscreen’s SPF. SUI numbers for sunscreen with SPF ranging from 2 to 100 under a solar UV Index of 10 was used for illustration. Based on guidelines from WHO, Australia and New Zealand, sunscreens yielding SUI < 3 are assumed to be effective against sun damage such as sunburn and melanoma. Based on the above assumption, sunscreens with SPF > 4 were found to be effective when sunscreens were evenly applied at 2 mg/cm2. Review of numerous studies suggests that missing applications may represent a major, seemingly unavoidable, SPF-independent factor causing unintended sunburns for sunbathers in the US and other countries with a temperate climate. This might in turn become a major factor for causing exponential increase in melanoma incidence rates observed in the last few decades. For example, in an SPF 30 sunscreen study all 25 participants suffered unintended sunburns after one week of sunbathing. Also, a mean missing application of 20% of the total exposed area and a mean missing of about 50% of the time were reported in two separate studies. Simulations were also performed with under-applications of 50% and 75%. The present simulations may provide a rationale of why routine use of a low SPF 8 sunscreen was reported to be effective against melanoma in a 2018 Australian study. Based on model simulations it is proposed that in the US, SPF 8 sunscreen and SPF 2 to 6 sunscreen may be adequate for routine, unintentional use for sun-sensitive populations and non-sun-sensitive populations, respectively.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3242
Nagaraj NitashaCorresponding author
Research Scientist, The George Washington University, Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Prevention and Community Health, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington
Mental health and mental illness is a critical to a person’s overall health. In the United States alone, mental illness effects one in six adults. Furthermore, 40% of those individuals who die of suicide have been diagnosed with a mental health condition or illness. Yet, there is a paucity of research on innovative methods that help prevent suicide. The Contextual-Conceptual Therapy (CCT) approach introduces an innovative way to treat suicide by working to uncover the strengths of the suicidal person and addressing a person’s true self. The CCT approach was developed over the course of 25 years working with more than 16,000 suicidal patients in Seattle, Washington, and is tailored specifically for primary and secondary prevention of suicide. While there has been anecdotal evidence of the effectiveness of the CCT program, the program has yet to be formally evaluated. This qualitative research study aims to understand the impact the CCT approach has had on its clients. Eleven former CCT clients were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Outcomes described by participants included an increase in curiosity and self-efficacy as a means through which to decrease suicide ideation and behavior, and proved to be incredibly powerful in changing long-term outcomes. This qualitative study is a first-step in providing critical insight on suicide prevention for wider dissemination. At a time when adverse mental health and illness is impacting the lives of millions of people, the CCT approach has the potential to address suicide, mental illness and mental health across diverse populations.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-20-3234
di Virgilio FabrizioCorresponding author
DVM, Clinique Vétérinaire Vet24 – 59700 – Marcq en Baroeul, France
Aim of the Research The aim of this study is to analyze a group of dogs of different breeds affected by osteosarcoma (OSA), to document any prevalence of this primary bone neoplasia in breeds that are phylogenetically close and to help with further research human medicine, as a model of study for prevalence and epidemiology of human OSA in multiple populations. Study Design Pilot study from two canine surgery databases between 2002 and 2013. Materials and Methods Breeds were classified in groups based on their phylogenetical proximity. Differences in prevalence of OSA between breeds and groups were evaluated with a permutation test. For each breed and each group, a ranking was made by calculating 95 % confidence intervals and counting the no-overlapping between breeds and groups. The relation between the dogs’ heights and the prevalence of OSA was analyzed using a logistic regression between the disease status and dog size. Results A total of 67 dogs with OSA, in 26 different breeds were included. Ten breeds were overrepresented and, the majority of these, were classified in 2 predisposed groups phylogenetically close to each other. The prevalence of OSA was associated with the dogs’ height within predisposed breeds, but, in general, taller breeds were not the most affected. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance In this study, despite the small number of dogs, we observed that the most commonly affected breeds with OSA are phylogenetically closely related. This highlights the importance of genetics in the aetiology of canine OSA . In this preliminary study, indications are given on breeds, samples and genome locations to be further investigated. This could allow identification of pathogenic alleles in dogs, and potentially in humans. Furthermore this pilot research can represent a model of epidemiologic study of human OSA.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-20-3212
Alexandrovich Victorov AlexanderCorresponding author
State Research Center Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
The possibility of applying the kinetic theory of aging of biological species published earlier by the authors of this work to assess and predict changes in the number of specific populations is evaluated. The populations of the USA, China and Russia, as well as the population of mice observed in the experiment "mouse paradise" of the American scientist John Calhoun are considered. To this end, a historically consistent analysis of the main previously proposed multi-scenario mathematical models describing demographic data and predicting the dynamics of the population was performed. The results of these models show a decrease in the population growth rate, a tendency toward a limit with an increase in historical time, the achievement of such a limit in some developed countries with a relatively high level of social security, a subsequent decrease in the number and further uncertainty of the final population outlook in the distant future. In addition, these models made it possible to establish that the observed population growth in developed countries is unambiguously accompanied by its aging - a relative predominant increase in the number of elderly people compared to the number of the younger generation (people are aging, the population of countries is aging). In this work, the assumption was made and confirmed that the dynamics of the aging of the population of the countries of the World corresponds to the dynamics of aging of a person of one generation and is mathematically described by the differential equation of the kinetic theory of aging of living systems of the same type with close values of the parameters. The biophysical meaning of the parameters of the kinetic equation reflects G. Selye's concept of the determining role of stress in human life and populations. An analysis of the changes in the numbers of the considered populations of humans and mice at various stages of their development is qualitatively commented on from the standpoint of comparative tension according to G. Selye. To assess the degree of aging of a biological object of one population in kinetic theory, the probability of death during life is selected as an indicator of aging. In this work, the probability of reaching the maximum population size was chosen as an indicator of the aging of a biological object of various populations. The published literature predicts various options for changing the population after reaching a maximum - maintaining the reached maximum level and decreasing to a certain limit, less than the maximum achieved. In this paper, based on an analysis of its results and an analogy with the complete degeneration of mice in the “mouse paradise” experiment, a conclusion is drawn about a hypothetically possible third variant of the limiting decrease in the population - its complete degeneration.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-20-3236
Sanikidze TamarCorresponding author
Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Objective Search of pathogenetic mechanisms and risk factors of atherosclerosis in the employees of the cleaning service in Tbilisi. Materials and Methods As a result of a preliminary survey and examination of 200 employes of Tbilisi cleaning service aged 25-45 years (2014-2016), 22 patients with angina, hypercholesterolemia, intimae-media thickness > 0.65 mm, were selected into I group, and 23 individuals without these disorders into II group. In the blood plasma of the selected patients the intensity of oxidative metabolism parameters, TAA and MDA were determined. The variance and correlation analysis (АNOVA) was used for conducting the comparative analysis of the levels of studied parameters. Results In the combined group (I+II) there are several reliable correlations between the Age -TCol, Age-MDA, BMI-Tg, BMI-MDA, LDLChol-HDLChol, LDLChol–TChol, HDLChol-TChol, LDLChol-MDA, LDLChol-TAA. no correlation between these parameters in individual groups (I and II) was found. That indicates that we have an imaginary correlation related to the large intergroup difference between the average values of the group indicators, that is the values of various indicators change during the development of the pathological process, but there is no causal relationship between these alterations. The reliable TAA-MDA correlation in the combined group (I+II) is related to the high anticorrelation between these parameters and the significantly higher average value of TAA in the low-risk group (II) in comparison to the high-risk group (I). Conclusion The results analysis indicates both the diagnostic value of redox status indicators and their leading role in the atherogenesis processes. In populations with a high risk of atherosclerosis, monitoring of serum TAA is recommended.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-20-3225
di Virgilio FabrizioCorresponding author
DVM, Clinique Vétérinaire Vet24 – 59700 – Marcq en Baroeul, France
Objective To evaluate/ determine the risk factors for dogs presented with Gastric Dilation- Volvulus (GDV) to a referral veterinary centre and to compare the results with those currently reported in veterinary literature. Materials and Methods The observational case-control study comprised a population of 215 dogs that attended the referral centre between 2000 and 2018. Medical records were searched for GDV and those matching the criteria were manually reviewed. A questionnaire was completed by the owners of the dogs involved in the study (both case and control populations) in order to gain further information that could be considered relevant to GDVs. In particular, information included the dogs’ behaviour and the dogs daily activities. Results The study included 115 cases of GDV and 115 controls. Out of the GDV dogs 13% (15/115) were small breed dogs and the remaining 87% (100/115) either large or giant breeds. The following risk factors for developing a GDV have been identified: Purebred dogs over 3 years old and either large of giant breeds, weighing > 30 kg. Foreign body ingestion, diarrhoea, and grass consumption were also associated to increase the likelihood in developing GDV. Behavioural temperament was not associated with developing GDV. Clinical Significance The findings support previously identified risk factors in the development of GDV, but characteristics related to the dogs temperament warrant further investigation. Knowledge of these results will further allow clinicians to make evidence‐based recommendations to owners in attempting to prevent GDV in dogs. Furthermore this paper confirms that the risk of GDV in certain breeds and in certain conditions is always high and that GDV is still an extremely current disease.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-0207.jbr-20-3194
Mohammed AL-Namnam NisreenCorresponding author
Departmet of Oral Biology and Biomedical sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, 42610 Bandar Saujana Putra, Malaysia
Rhinosinusitis is one of widely spread diseases in the region and the role of the anatomical variations in its pathogenesis remains unresolved. A retrospective study using CBCT scan was employed to locate and measure the diameter of 320 primary maxillary ostium (PMO) (n = 160 subjects) among the Malay and Chinese populations (Mongoloid race) in Malaysia. Image analysis was performed using the i-CAT Vision Software, employing the multiplanar reconstruction window in which axial, coronal and sagittal planes were visualized in 0.3 mm intervals. The mean diameter of the PMO was significantly larger in the Chinese than the Malay. Females had larger size than the male and bilateral asymmetry was noticed, where the right side PMO was larger than the left side (p < 0.05). In addition, PMO opened more in the posterior third position of the hiatus semilunaris (61.9%) than anterior and middle third. The PMO showed a statistically significant posteriorly placed position in the Chinese than the Malays and this was more evident in the right side PMO (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the PMO commonly opens in the posterior third of the hiatus semilunaris and its diameter is significantly greater in the Chinese female with evidence of bilateral asymmetry. Awareness the anatomical variation of the Ostium diameter and location among the Malay and Chinese populations potentially has important clinical effects during surgical procedures.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2326-0793.jpgr-19-3114
Ollomo BenjaminCorresponding author
Unité Mixte de Recherches (UMR-BIOMED), Faculté de Médecine, B.P 8507 Libreville, Gabon
Background During the last two decades, the polymorphism of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) gene has been extensively studied among different human populations. In humans, several studies have shown the relationship between this polymorphism and the risk of many serious diseases with a heavy burden of health in developing countries. After analyzing the polymorphism in the population, the present study was also concerned with the investigation of an eventual association between hypertension, stroke, cancer prostate and I/D polymorphism of the ACE gene. Materials and Methods Our study population included 163 Baka (pygmy) and 158 Fang (Bantu) from Gabon to evaluate the polymorphism in the country. Concerning the diseases, we included 105 patients and 120 controls for hypertension, 37 patients stroke matched with 50 controls and 97 patients with prostate cancer were recruited. All participants in the study were genotyped for the ACE I/D polymorphism obtained by polymerase chain reaction amplification on genomic DNA. Results Our analysis showed that the ACE D allele DD genotype frequencies were highest of all the data so far in human populations. We obtained a frequency of 0.138 for I allele and 0.862 for D allele among pygmy and the frequencies of 0.313 and 0.687 respectively for the I and D alleles. This difference was significant (p<0.05). In patients, we revealed the predominance of D allele and DD genotype for hypertension (0.27 for I allele and 0.73 for D allele), for stroke (0.15 for I allele and 0.85 for D allele) and 83% of individuals with cancer prostate carry the D allele. D allele and DD genotype are associated with risk to hypertension whereas allele I seem protective at the occurrence of stroke (p<0.05 between healthy and controls). Conclusion We show that the D allele and DD genotype were higher in this population. Also theses two signatures may be associated at genetic risk of hypertension, stroke and prostate cancer in this country deprived of human resources for quality care of many patients.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-1198.jge-19-3079
Volobuev A.N.Corresponding author
Samara State Medical University, Department of Medical Physics, Samara, Russia
The problem of natural selection against recessive homozygotes in a population is investigated. It is shown that natural selection of mutant alleles linked with the Х-chromosome in a population at women is described by the nonlinear differential equation of the third order. The order of the differential equation characterizes a power of selection. It is marked that the high order of the differential equation of natural selection allows level all mutational processes in Earth populations.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-19-3053
A TiwariCorresponding author
MBBS II Year, School of Medical Science & Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida.
Introduction The human tibia is a complex anatomical unit and the knowledge of its morphometric values is important in Forensic, Anatomic and Radiological cases in order to identify unknown bodies and stature. Objective It was to analyze the tibia, its morphometry, side difference and to investigate the position of nutrient foramina in tibia. Methods In this study, 60 adult human tibias (30 right and 30 left) were obtained from the Department of Anatomy SMSR SHARDA UNIVERSITY. In the study a total of two parameters i.e. Cross Section Index in the middle and Cnemicus Index of the bones were obtained and evaluated by using two instruments- a Measuring Tape and a Vernier Calipers. All the bones were dry and showed normal anatomical features. Results The mean Cross Section Index in the middle was calculated as 80.42 ± 11.33 on the right side and 78.15± 12.78 on the left side; and the Cnemicus index was 78.40 ± 13.19 on the right side and 70.84 ± 11.38 on the left side Conclusion The two parameters in the North Indian population were compared with other populations. The values were found to be almost comparable however there were subtle differences between different populations. The position of nutrient foramen was also assessed. This knowledge will thus help further researchers and orthopedic surgeons in various procedures like joint replacement therapy, fracture repair, bone grafts and vascularized bone microsurgery as well as in medico‐legal cases.
Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-4602.jes-19-2990
Shkliarevsky GennadyCorresponding author
Bard College
There is hardly anything more central to our universe than conservation. Many scientific fields and disciplines view the law of conservation as one of the most fundamental universal laws. The Darwinian model pivots the process of evolution on variability, reproduction, and natural selection. Conservation plays a marginal role in this model and is not really universal, as the model allows exceptions to conservation, i.e. non-conservation, to play an equally important role in evolution. This anomalous role of conservation in the Darwinian model raises questions: What is the reason for this anomaly? Is conservation really universal, as we tend to believe or is it not, as the Darwinian model suggests? This contribution proposes a new model of evolution that focuses on levels of organization, rather than of species, organisms, or populations. It argues that conservation is central to evolution. Not only does this new model restores the universal status of conservation but it also makes possible to resolve some outstanding problems and controversies that continue to plague the Darwinian model. The article tries to advance the broad Darwinian project that seeks to explain the process of evolution as a product of the spontaneous processes in nature.
Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2572-3030.jcgb-19-2597
Oluwafemi Oyamakin S.Corresponding author
Department of Statistics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
In other to present a series of stochastic models from population dynamics capable of describing rudimentary aspects of genetic evolution, we studied two-allele Wright–Fisher and the Moran models for evolution of the relative frequencies of two alleles at a diploid locus under random genetic drift in a population of fixed size “simplest form, selection, and random mutation”. Principal results were presented in qualitative terms, illustrated by Monte Carlo simulations from R and http://www.radford.edu/~rsheehy/Gen_flash/popgen. Moran and the Wright-Fisher Models exhibited the same fixation probabilities, only that the Moran model runs twice as fast as the Wright-Fisher Model. A clue that can help us to understand this result is provided by the variance in reproductive success in the two models. Genetic changes due to drift were neither directional nor predictable in any deterministic way. Nonetheless, genetic drift led to evolutionary change in the absence of mutation (P=0.5), natural selection or gene flow. In general, alleles drift to fixation is significantly faster in smaller populations. Probability of fixation of an allele A was approximately equivalent to the initial frequency of that allele. With the inclusion of selection in our model, probability of fixation of a favoured allele due to natural selection increased with increase in fitness advantage and population size. The time taken to reach fixation is much slower, in case of no selective advantage, than a fixation under mutation with selective advantage.
Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-19-2797
A Best-Popescu CatherineCorresponding author
University of Illinois College of Medicine, Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA (Barry J. Riskin, MD)
Background There is substantial evidence, from well-conducted epidemiological studies, that low vitamin D levels are correlated with increased risk for MS, and multiple case control studies have implicated the involvement of vitamin D deficiency in MS etiology. Narrow-band Ultraviolet B (NB-UVB; 300nm - 311 nm) induced vitamin D production has not previously been studied in a multiple sclerosis (MS) randomized placebo-controlled trial (RCT). Objectives To investigate NB-UVB induced vitamin D production, immunomodulation and MS symptomology following NB-UVB phototherapy in a MS cohort. Methods Using a blinded RCT study design, twelve individuals 18 years or older with MS were enrolled and assigned (1:1) into individualized NB-UVB dose (10-30kJ/m) phototherapy, or into placebo treatment, delivered 3 times per week, for 8-weeks. Serum vitamin D levels, walking performance, strength, cognitive function, mood and circulating progenitor cells (CPCs: CD34+CD45dim), monocyte populations (Intermediate CD14+CD16+, Classical CD14+CD16-), and T regulatory cell (CD4+/CD25+/FoxP3+Tregs) count were assesed. The data were analyzed by 2 x 3 mixed factor ANOVA. Results A statistically significant condition by time interaction on vitamin D levels (F=7.14, p<.005, partial η2=.42) was identified. NB-UVB phototherapy may provide immunomodulation in a select group of MS individuals. Conclusion UVB phototherapy corrects vitamin D deficiency. This study adds to the growing research investigating UVB treatment in MS.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2721
Habulembe Mugode RaiderCorresponding author
National Food and Nutrition Commission, Lusaka, Zambia
Introduction In the past several decades, Zambia has suffered high levels of under nutrition particularly stunting among children below 5 years of age. Although appropriate complementary feeding practices are reported to reduce child deaths by 6%, they have not received the adequate attention from programme officers and caregivers in terms of implementation. Objectives The objective was to investigate issues surrounding the common complementary feeding practices practised by caregivers of children below five years in health facilities and areas where high rates of malnutrition admission come from. Design A cross sectional research using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study used mostly proportions based mostly on global indicators on complementary feeding. Qualitative data was also analysed according to themes of global complementary feeding indicators Setting The study was conducted in five hospitals, namely Arthur Davison, Solwezi Central, Kabwe and Livingstone General, and University Teaching Hospital. Subjects The target populations were mothers whose children were admitted for malnutrition and those with children 0-59 months living in communities with the highest number of malnourished cases admitted to selected hospitals Results About45.2% (190) of caregivers introduced liquids before six months of age and 7.6% (32) after 6 months attributing child thirst, medication and advice from health worker as the main reasons. Slightly above half (54.2% of 224) of mothers/caregivers used cups to feed their babies. The use of feeding bottles was still common (8.2% of 34). Responsibility to feed the child is mostly left to the mother (86.4%, 362). In addition, children were being feed about 2.67 (SD 0-72) per day. Conclusions Child feeding practices were still poor. This contributes to poor child growth and health. More interventions should be planned to improve child care behaviour.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-19-2770
Remy Andre-JeanCorresponding author
Mobile Hepatitis Team, Perpignan Hospital, France
Introduction In France 33% of patients didn’t take care of hepatitis C because there were no diagnosed. Drug injection was main contamination route of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in France. French guidelines were to treat all inmates and drug users, even fibrosis level. Access of HCV screening, care and treatment in drugs users, prisoners and homeless was low in France. They were considered as difficult to treat populations. All these patients need specific support. Hepatitis Mobile Team (HMT) was created in July 2013 to increase screening care and treatment of hepatitis B and C patients. HMT was composed of hepatologist, nurses, social workers and health care worker. Objective increase outreach screening care treatment access and cure of our target population. Patients and methods Target population was drugs users, prisoners, homeless, precarious people, migrants and psychiatric patients. We proposed part or all of our services to our 42 medical and social partners: HCV HBV screening by DBS (dried blood test); outside DBS and FIBROSCAN in converted van; Outreach open center; Drug users information and prevention, Free blood tests in primary care;, Staff training; Social screening and diagnosis; Mobile liver stiffness Fibroscan in site; Advanced on-site specialist consultation; Easy access to pre-treatment commission; Low cost mobile phones for patients; Individual psycho-educative intervention sessions; Collective educative workshops; Peer to peer educational program; Specific one day hospitalizations. All services were free for patients and for partners. Results from 2013 July to 2018 December, we did 8382 DBS for 5382 people (3053 HCV DBS) and 2302 Fibroscan*. HCV new positive rate was 21.3%. Our HCV active file was 651patients included these 24.8% new patients screened by DBS; 98% realized HCV genotype, HCV viral load and FIBROSCAN. DAA treatment was proposed to 96%; 95% started treatment, 4% were lost follow up or refused treatment. After treatment, there was 7 relapse and 3 reinfections by drug injection and cured rate of 94%. Sociological evaluation showed that 4 program qualities for patients: free access, closeness (outside hospital), speed (of the results) and availability (of nurse and social workers). Conclusions: Specific follow-up of drugs users and other HCV high-risk patients including screening, early detection, diagnosis and treatment increase rate of treated and cured patients, with low rate of relapse and reinfections.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-0282.imsj-18-2508
F. Madkour FedekarCorresponding author
Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Port Said University, Port Said- 42526, Egypt
The present study introduce an overview on the cladal structure of Symbiodinium population associated with some species of scleractinean corals and fire coral in the Egyptian Red Sea coast and discuss the possible consequences of recent climate changes on coral reefs. Cladal structure of Symbiodinium populations associated with eight keystone species of scleractinean corals and one species of fire coral that collected along Egyptian Red Sea coast, during 2012-2013, had been resolved based on 18S nrDNA and ITS2 genetic markers. Only Symbiodinium subclades C1 and A1 were identified from all examined species. Symbiodinium C1 was the dominant subclade that associated with 61% of coral samples. Results revealed that the studied pocilloporid corals were associated with Symbiodinium C1 and/or A1 while acroporids were only associated with Symbiodinium C1. The present data also indicated that Symbiodinium C1 occurred at high densities than A1 or A1+C1 combination. Because of the relative thermal susceptibility of clades C and A, the current study addresses that the recent climate changes may derive dramatic changes on community structure of coral reefs at the Red Sea.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-19-2602
Adaboh HayfordCorresponding author
Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
Vision impairment and blindness remain a challenge in developing countries, especially in rural communities. Notwithstanding, VISION 2020 global initiative seeks to eliminate avoidable blindness by 2020. This community-based cross-sectional study aimed at determining the accessibility of ophthalmic services and barriers to its utilization in rural communities in the Upper Denkyira West District, Ghana. One-hundred and seventy participants from 5 randomly chosen rural communities in the district were included. Participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Socio-demographic information, information regarding accessibility, utilization, and barriers to eye care services were obtained. Descriptive statistics were carried out using SPSS version 23. The Chi-squared test was employed to determine associations. P-values less than 0.05 at a confidence interval of 95% were considered significant. Only 21.8% of participants had had eye examination within the past 3 years, with over half of the examinations undertaken at screening grounds and health centres. Significant associations were found between ophthalmic services utilization and increasing age (p = 0.004), female gender (p = 0.027) and those who had a past history of eye problem(s) (p = 0.0010. The study found gross inadequate utilization of ophthalmic services mainly due to unavailable ophthalmic services in the rural district. Public health education and eye care interventions should prioritize and target rural populations. Key Messages This study found gross inadequate utilization of ophthalmic services mainly due to unavailable ophthalmic services in the rural district. Rural dwellers were thus compelled to resort to harmful eye care practices. Public health education and eye care interventions should prioritize and target rural populations
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9359.jot-18-2388
M. Flechner StuartCorresponding author
Glickman Urologic and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44195
This review article provides ethical guidance for determining which kinds of financial benefits provided to living organ donors are ethically appropriate. It does so by way of ethical analysis of a policy case study: the National Kidney Registry (NKR) has implemented a donor insurance program to all its living donors. Is such a policy ethically supportable, or is it an unethical practice? The article proceeds as follows. First, a framework for grounding the ethical commitments of transplant programs is defended. It is argued that this framework can be accepted by all who work in transplant medicine, regardless of differences in ethical theory preference or background. Second, from this framework two ethical principles are formulated. (1) Living donors should, as far as possible, not be worse off for donating. (2) Disincentives towards donation should be removed as much as possible. Third, issues with unethical incentives are explored: undue inducement, commodification of the body, potential decreased organ donation rates, and potential exploitation of vulnerable populations. Lastly, these ethical considerations are applied to the policy change at the NKR, showing that the NKR policy change appears to be ethically supportable. Financial benefits provided to donors are ethically sound if they are in keeping with principles (1) and (2), and do not cause undue inducement, commodification, decreased organ donation, or exploitation. It is ethically appropriate for transplant programs to institute as well as study such programs with the goal of serving the welfare and interests of patients, donors, and the general public.
Nov 2018
Prasad Burjonrappa SathyaCorresponding author
Department of pediatric surgery, Children’s Hospital at Montefiore.
Intestinal malrotation is the incomplete rotation of the midgut during embryogenesis. The reported prevalence is 1 in 500 live births, however some studies report a prevalence as high as 1% of the population1, 2. Traditionally it is though as a disease of the pediatric population presenting as bilious emesis during the first year of life but can present with different symptoms even in adulthood. Presentation in older populations tends to be atypical, chronic abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea being the most commonly reported symptoms 3. However, as these symptoms accompany almost all-gastrointestinal pathology it is difficult to determine if abnormalities of rotation and fixation of the intestine are the cause for the symptoms in a given patient given its relative rarity. It therefore is important to have a high index of suspicion in patients with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms. We report laparoscopic management of a patient with abnormal rotation/fixation who was treated for many years as celiac disease (CD). Celiac disease is an immune mediated systemic disorder elicited by gluten in genetically susceptible individuals4. It can present as chronic abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, failure to thrive, weight loss, stunted growth, distention and fatigue. His symptoms immediately resolved after surgery.
Jul 2018
Ivanovska NinaCorresponding author
Department of Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria.
Bone remodeling processes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) depend mainly on the action of three types of cells. Osteoblasts are responsible for the formation of new bone, osteoclasts degrade mineralized bone and osteocytes regulate and maintain the bone homeostasis. Except, many other cell populations become pathologically activated in the inflamed microenvironment of the joint. The role of megakaryocytes and platelets in RA is poorly clarified. In the present study the presence of MK in the synovium and cartilage was observed in a model of arthritis induced in normal and complement depleted mice.
May 2018
Alatsathianos IoannisCorresponding author
Laboratory of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Genetics alone cannot thoroughly expound the environmental impact on the molecular complexity of the endocrine system. Epigenetic-induced alteration in gene expression has emerged as a way in which environmental compounds may exert endocrine effects. The environmental compounds that interfere with normal endocrine signaling are one of the largest classes of toxicants we are exposed to, on a daily basis. Epigenetic mechanisms, mainly the methylation of DNA and the modification of histones, lead to differentiated activation and deactivation of genome domains creating phenotype plasticity and divergent endocrine function among populations and individuals, as well. The issues examined in the present review are related to environmental epigenetics, and more precisely, the epigenetic-mediated modulation and relevance of endocrine disrupting chemicals, focusing on three broad aspects: 1) persistence of EDs, 2) their major hormonal effects and 3) the potential of compounds previously considered as endocrine disruptors to induce epigenetic effects. Evidence suggests that environmental exposures notably impact expression of endocrine-related genes and, thus, affect clinical endocrine outcomes.
Feb 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-1716.jn-18-1965
T. Caracciolo JamieCorresponding author
Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL
Lipomatous tumors are among the most common primary musculoskeletal neoplasms affecting both pediatric and adult patient populations. Patient age, tumor location, and imaging features all contribute to the differential diagnosis of musculoskeletal tumors. Tumors identified outside of common patient demographics or in unusual locations may lead to preoperative misdiagnosis. We present an uncommon adipocytic tumor occurring at an uncommon age which was proven at surgery to represent a preoperatively unexpected diagnosis. A 13 year old male presented with a fatty anterior proximal thigh mass; age and magnetic resonance findings suggested lipoblastoma. However, following complete surgical resection, histopathology confirmed hibernoma, a benign lipomatous tumor characterized by the presence of white and multivacuolated brown fat cells, the vast majority of which occur in adult patients.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1661
Parreño VivianaCorresponding author
National Council of Scientific and Technical Research - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Serum samples from wild and domestic South American Camelids (SAC) from Argentina, collected before (2008), during (2009) and after (2010) the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic were tested by hemagglutination-inhibition assay (HIA) to evaluate the seroprevalence of antibodies (Ab) against different subtypes of influenza A viruses: A(H1N1)pdm09, A/sw/Argentina/SIV/2009(H3N2) and A/eq/Argentina/97(H3N8). For A(H1N1), an ELISA using a recombinant H1-hemmaglutinin from a reference strain (HA0 PuertoRico/8/1934) was also conducted. Serum samples from Guanacos (126), vicugnas (21) and llamas (100) from Jujuy, Mendoza and Río Negro provinces were analyzed; no clinical signs of respiratory disease were detected, reason for which no nasal swabs were obtained. No seropositive reactors to H3N2 nor H3N8 variants were detected, nevertheless high incidence of Ab reactive to A(H1N1)pdm09 were found by HIA; results which were confirmed by ELISA. The Ab seropositive animals to H1-like IAV found in llamas from Jujuy, and Mendoza (2009) were 78% and 86% by HIA and ELISA, respectively. Thirty-seven samples taken over the three years from guanacos kept in captivity in Rio Negro showed 62% of seropositive animals, while wild guanacos from Mendoza sampled in 2010 showed 36% seropositive animals to H1-like IAV, by both techniques. Finally, wild vicugnas from Jujuy, sampled in 2008 showed 38% and 52% seropositive animals to H1-like IAV by HIA and ELISA, respectively. Our results could indicate the potential role of these species as a reservoir of this zoonotic viral agent of high impact in Public Health, and may suggest that SAC populations might have been infected with an influenza strain antigenically related to H1 IAV. . Surprisingly, for llama and guanaco populations sampled over time in Jujuy and Río Negro, respectively, the HIA and ELISA geometric mean Ab titers (GMT) for 2008 were significantly higher than the ones of 2010. In addition, HIA and ELISA Ab titers found in domestic llamas were significantly higher than those detected in wild vicugnas sampled during that year (2008) in Jujuy. New field campaigns are in progress to collect serum samples and nasal swabs in order to isolate and characterize the virus responsible for triggering H1 reactive Abs. These findings remark the need to better understand the dynamics and ecology of influenza A virus within Sacs populations.
Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-17-1579
Pellegrino MCorresponding author
Santa Croce and Carle Hospital, Division of Endocrinology, Cuneo, Italy
Objectives: Vitamin D (25(OH)D) status has been extensively evaluated in different populations and care settings. A negative relationship between glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and serum 25(OH)D levels in outpatients with diabetes has been reported, while data about 25(OH)D status in inpatients with diabetes are inconsistent. The aim of the study was to evaluate 25(OH)D levels in a large series of inpatients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes and in an age-, sex-, serum creatinine-, and HbA1c-matched group of outpatients with diabetes. Design: After the preliminary exclusion of patients with confounding factors, 540 subjects with diabetes were retrospectively evaluated in a 1:1 matched case-control study between inpatients and outpatients. Results: 25(OH)D levels resulted significantly lower in inpatients versus outpatients with diabetes (37.9 nmol/L, median, 25.3 interquartile range, vs 44.9, 31.8 nmol/L, respectively), regardless of season. 25(OH)D levels were inversely correlated with HbA1c levels and BMI in outpatients, and with fibrinogen and erythrocyte sedimentation rate in inpatients. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is common in diabetic inpatients and more frequent than in diabetic outpatients. 25(OH)D status in diabetic inpatients is not related to glycemic control but is likely influenced by acute inflammatory condition.
Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-17-1586
Caroline ROSOLEM MayaraCorresponding author
Students of the Postgraduate Program in Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (Unesp) Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV), Campus de Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brasil.
The mammary tumor is one of the most common cancer in female dogs and, at the present days, there is a big focus on the study of the relation between this kind of tumor in animals and the cells that stay around them, like the inflammatory cells. The objective of this study was to evaluate and show where the inflammatory cells stay in simple mammary carcinomas in female dogs by immunohistochemistry. Samples of simple mammary carcinomas (tumor group; n=26) and mammary gland samples without tumor (control group; n=18) were submitted to immunohistochemical analysis for the detection of T lymphocytes, macrophages, plasma cells and the MHC-II molecule. The mast cells were evaluated by the histochemical technique (toluidine blue). Lymphocytes, macrophages and mast cells were observed distributed in the tumor stroma. MHC-II was detected in tumor cells and in the inflammatory infiltrate. Plasma cells predominated in the peritumoral stroma. Macrophages differed significantly between the two groups and predominated in the tumor group. In the comparison between histological types of mammary carcinomas, mast cells differed significantly between solid tumors of the tubular / papillary types. The cytoplasmic immunodetection of MHC-II was suggested an inefficient antigen presentation. Some of the leukocytes present in the tumor infiltrate, appear to be exerting a pro-tumor effect and allowing the progression of tubular and papillary carcinomas. But in solid carcinomas (may be poorly immunogenic), as they had the lowest proportion of leukocytes present in the tumor site. More studies are necessary to confirm these results, such as the determination of the cytokine profile and the predominant leukocyte subpopulations in the tumor microenvironment.
Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-17-1636
R. Holt PeterCorresponding author
The Rockefeller University
Adipose tissue inflammation is associated with obesity comorbidities. Reducing such inflammation may ameliorate these comorbidities. n-3 fatty acids have been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties in obesity, which may modulate this inflammatory state. In the current study a 1 gram per day oral supplement of the n-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was administered for 12 weeks to 10 grade 12 obese postmenopausal women and markers of adipose tissue and systemic inflammation measured and compared before and after supplementation. DHA administration resulted in approximately a doubling of plasma and red cell phospholipid and adipose tissue DHA content but no change in systemic markers of inflammation, such as circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) or interleukins (IL) 6, 8 and 10 (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10). DHA supplementation did not alter the adipose tissue marker of inflammation crown-like structure density nor did it affect any gene expression pathways, including anti-inflammatory, hypoxic and lipid metabolism pathways. The obese postmenopausal women studied were otherwise healthy, which leads us to suggest that in such women DHA supplementation is not an effective means for reducing adipose tissue or systemic inflammation. Further testing is warranted to determine if n-3 fatty acids may ameliorate inflammation in other, perhaps less healthy, populations of obese individuals.
Feb 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-16-1398
Fan LinlinCorresponding author
Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
Oral nutritional supplements (ONS) have been shown to improve patient outcomes in the hospital setting, but limited results from long-term care or community settings exist. Using electronic health records (EHRs) from 2009 to 2014 for both adult inpatients and outpatients, we compare the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients who received ONS (n = 1,251) with a non-ONS control group (n =25,513). Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to describe and compare differences in baseline characteristics between the groups including age, sex, race, tobacco use, and comorbidities. We found that patients receiving ONS were older and sicker than control patients. Hospitalized ONS patients were more likely to be admitted from the emergency department and have a hospitalization within the last month prior to the index date. Our results suggest that there is a need for nutrition screening and incorporating nutrition status into the EHR as an important way to coordinate hospital and community medical care. ONS can be an important therapy for vulnerable populations in both the hospital and the community settings.
Jan 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2476-1710.jdt-16-1324
Meiser SusanneCorresponding author
University of Potsdam, Department of Psychology
An important step in the validation of disorder-specific etiological models is the examination of the predictive specificity of proposed vulnerability factors. It may advance the understanding of the emergence of comorbidity and the identification of at risk-populations for mental disorders. To enhance the currently limited evidence on the specificity of Beck´s cognitive diathesis-stress model of depression, the present study investigated longitudinal effects of dysfunctional attitudes and stressful life events on the development of depressive, eating disorder and aggressive symptoms in children and adolescents. A large sample of initially asymptomatic children and adolescents completed self-report symptom measures at study entrance and again approx. 20 months later, and reported stressful life events during the study interval. Stressful life events proved to be a risk factor to all investigated symptom domains. Dysfunctional attitudes at T1 were prospectively related to depressive symptoms, aggressive behavior and weight concerns at T2. However, types of associations varied as dysfunctional attitudes showed linear associations with weight concern, but nonlinear effects on depressive and aggressive symptomatology. Findings of the current study thus suggest that dysfunctional attitudes are not uniquely related to the development of depressive symptomatology in children and adolescents, but may contribute to adverse outcomes in various symptom domains. Thus, intervention efforts based on Beck´s vulnerability - stress model of depression may turn out to be useful in reducing vulnerability to a variety of outcomes in children and adolescents.
Dec 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-16-1338
Consortium TRUECorresponding author
American Heart Association
Although inaccurate, non-reproducible blood pressure values can result from non-standardized assessments, recommended approaches to standardize blood pressure measurement are often not followed in research studies. An expert consensus of national and international health and scientific organizations developed recommended minimum standards for assessing blood pressure in research subjects where: 1) blood pressure or hypertension is a major endpoint, or 2) blood pressure is likely a major mediator of the research outcome. Minimum research standards are presented for training of observers, technical aspects of assessing blood pressure, and equipment for both adults and children. The standards are based on prior recommendations some of which did not conform to current evidence based methods. All new research should require adherence to these minimum standards on the patient populations described above. Readers need to use caution in interpreting studies if the standards are not met in the defined populations.
Sep 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-16-1189
Martin KarenCorresponding author
School of Population Health (M431), The University of Western Australia
Objectives: This pilot study explored post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and moderate to severe psychological distress in a small sample of urban community-living adolescents seeking asylum in Australia. The study also examined the relationships between post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and psychological distress and school and family support and connectedness. Method: A cross-sectional survey examined PTSS (Abbreviated PTSD Checklist), psychological distress (Kessler-5) and school connectedness (California Healthy Kids Survey)53 in 27 adolescents seeking asylum (ages 12-17, mean 15.4) attending two independent secondary schools in Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Results: In the sample, 63.0% (n=17, 1 missing) of adolescents exceeded the PTSS threshold (i.e. screened positive for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder) and 66.7% (n=18) exceeded the Kessler -5 threshold indicating moderate to severe psychological distress. Overall, 51.9 % (n=14, 1 missing) of adolescents screened above both thresholds suggesting co-occurrence of PTSD and moderate to severe psychological distress. Boys (x̄=15.0, SD=2.9) experienced higher psychological distress scores than girls (x̄=12.1, SD=4.5; p=0.071). Higher perceived support by an adult in school (r=0.13), and at home (r=0.28) were weakly associated with lower PTSS. Less time in Australia was weak-moderately associated with higher psychological distress (r=0.35). Weak associations between higher psychological distress and age (r=0.17) and those who felt more supported by an adult at home (r=0.17) were detected. Conclusion: Approximately two thirds of this group of community-living adolescents who were seeking asylum experienced post- traumatic stress symptoms or psychological distress; and more than one half experienced both. These pilot research findings suggest that adolescents who are seeking asylum and living in the Australian community are at risk of experiencing PTSD and moderate to severe psychological distress; research incorporating larger samples and longitudinal measurement is required. Screening, clinical assessment and examination of the immediate and long term impact, as well as implementation and evaluation of evidence-based mental health interventions, within these populations is also 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.
Jan 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-7061.jcrc-14-394
C. Papagiorgis PetrosCorresponding author
Technological Educational Institute of Athens, Faculty of Health and Caring Professions
This review synthesizes evidence on NSAIDs and colorectal cancer prevention. It balances chemopreventive efficacy against gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks, and considers selective COX‑2 inhibitors, dosing, and candidate populations for risk‑benefit.
May 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-147
Ross RatchneewanCorresponding author
College of Nursing, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242
Evidence shows that depressive symptoms are associated with faster progression to AIDS in HIV-infected populations. Physical symptoms, self-esteem, and emotional support have been reported to play a major role in contributing to depressive symptoms. However, comparisons of different sources of support—specifically family vs. friends— have only been made in a few previous HIV studies. Therefore, the objectives of this study among HIV-positive perinatal Thai women were to examine: 1) both the direct and indirect effects of physical symptoms and emotional support on depressive symptoms; 2) which source of support is more significant, family or friends; and 3) the direct effect of self-esteem on depressive symptoms. Results revealed that half of the participants experienced major depressive symptoms. Physical symptoms and self-esteem both had direct effects on depressive symptoms. Emotional support, from friends and family, had an indirect effect on depressive symptoms. Treating physical symptoms and increasing self-esteem through emotional support, could help decrease depressive symptoms in the target population. Finally, it is crucial that routine screening for depressive symptoms is established at all HIV clinics for perinatal women in Thailand.
Dec 2012 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-edt.1.1
Marchand ChristopheCorresponding author
Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda
This editorial discusses combination strategies that concurrently target viral replication and host factors in HIV therapy. It surveys candidate mechanisms, potential benefits, and safety considerations, advocating rigorous trials to balance efficacy with tolerability in diverse patient populations.