Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuou...Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20<sup>th</sup> and 22<sup>nd</sup> of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM)is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),while insulin is a potent mitogen.Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from develop...BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM)is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),while insulin is a potent mitogen.Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from developing HCC is a critical goal for researchers.AIM To investigate whether regular herbal medicine use can decrease HCC risk in DM patients with regular insulin control.METHODS We used data acquired from the Taiwan,Chinaese National Health Insurance research database between 2000 and 2017.We identified patients with DM who were prescribed insulin for>3 months.The herb user group was further defined as patients prescribed herbal medication for DM for>3 months per annum during RESULTS We initially enrolled 657144 DM patients with regular insulin use from 2000 to 2017.Among these,46849 patients had used a herbal treatment for DM,and 140547 patients were included as the matched control group.The baseline variables were similar between the herb users and nonusers.DM patients with regular herb use had a 12%decreased risk of HCC compared with the control group[adjusted hazard ratio(aHR)=0.88,95%CI=0.80–0.97].The cumulative incidence of HCC in the herb users was significantly lower than that of the nonusers.Patients with a herb use of>5 years cumulatively exhibited a protective effect against development of HCC(aHR=0.82,P<0.05).Of patients who developed HCC,herb users exhibited a longer survival time than nonusers(aHR=0.78,P=0.0001).Additionally,we report the top 10 herbs and formulas in prescriptions and summarize the potential pharmacological effects of the constituents.Our analysis indicated that Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge(Dan Shen),and Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim.(Tian Hua Fen)were the most frequent combination of single herbs.Meanwhile,Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan plus Dan Shen was the most frequent combination of herbs and formulas.CONCLUSION This large-scale retrospective cohort study reveals that herbal medicine may decrease HCC risk by 12%in DM patients with regular insulin use.展开更多
Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellula...Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellular matrix substance (EPS). Microcolonies within biofilm are held together by interactions and bonding of the substances present in the EPS with their separation from the water channels. Similar to insoluble EPS, bacterial microcolonies release soluble exofactors that have direct impacts on the survivability, growth and antibacterial resistivity of other microcolonies made of single- or multi-species bacteria in the same biofilm. How the exofactors of microcolonies of one-type bacteria impact on microcolonies of other-type bacteria is still unclear. We studied about the role of exofactors released from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. Exofactors facilitate to transform the microenvironment where bacteria can acquire alternative lifestyle with a long survival period and resistivity to certain antimicrobial drugs.展开更多
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most frequent and the second most fatal cancer.The search for more effective drugs to treat this disease is ongoing.A better understanding of the mechanisms of CRC develop...BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most frequent and the second most fatal cancer.The search for more effective drugs to treat this disease is ongoing.A better understanding of the mechanisms of CRC development and progression may reveal new therapeutic strategies.Ubiquitin-specific peptidases(USPs),the largest group of the deubiquitinase protein family,have long been implicated in various cancers.There have been numerous studies on the role of USPs in CRC;however,a comprehensive view of this role is lacking.AIM To provide a systematic review of the studies investigating the roles and functions of USPs in CRC.METHODS We systematically queried the MEDLINE(via PubMed),Scopus,and Web of Science databases.RESULTS Our study highlights the pivotal role of various USPs in several processes implicated in CRC:Regulation of the cell cycle,apoptosis,cancer stemness,epithelial–mesenchymal transition,metastasis,DNA repair,and drug resistance.The findings of this study suggest that USPs have great potential as drug targets and noninvasive biomarkers in CRC.The dysregulation of USPs in CRC contributes to drug resistance through multiple mechanisms.CONCLUSION Targeting specific USPs involved in drug resistance pathways could provide a novel therapeutic strategy for overcoming resistance to current treatment regimens in CRC.展开更多
Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Ve...Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Vernonia amygdalina(Bitter leaf).The study specifically investigates their effects on different bacterial strains associated with gastroenteritis.Methods:Four enteric bacterial isolates-Klebsiella pneumoniae,Salmonella typhi,Escherichia coli,and Proteus mirabilis-were obtained from the Medical Laboratory Unit at Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ilishan-Remo,Ogun State.Phytochemical screening and antibacterial testing were conducted using standard biochemical techniques and the Punch-hole agar diffusion method,respectively.Results:Qualitative phytochemical screening of the plant extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids,glycosides,and saponin in both plants,excluding terpenoids.Alkaloids were identified only in Vernonia amygdalina.Despite these phytochemicals,neither plant displayed inhibitory effects on the tested bacterial isolates(Escherichia coli,Proteus mirabilis,Klebsiella pneumoniae,and Salmonella typhi)when tested individually or in combination.Intriguingly,combining the fresh and dried leaf extracts of Momordica charantia and Vernonia amygdalina with a standard drug resulted in smaller mean zone diameters of inhibition(Escherichia coli range:14 mm–16 mm,Proteus mirabilis range:31 mm–35 mm,Klebsiella pneumoniae range:13 mm–22 mm,and Salmonella typhi range:35 mm–38 mm)compared to the drug tested alone(16 mm–45 mm).Conclusion:Despite previous indications of antibacterial properties in various extracts of V.amygdalina and M.charantia leaves,our study presents contradictory results,prompting the need for further investigation despite the presence of significant phytochemicals.展开更多
Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to disc...Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls(n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p,miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was:area under curve (AUC):0.954, sensitivity:86%, specificity:90%,positive predictive value (PPV):87.8%and negative predictive value (NPV):88.5%whereas between OC and OPMD was:AUC:0.911,sensitivity:90%, specificity:82.7%, PPV:74.2%and NPV:89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the presence or risk of OC in OPMD patients. We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC,revolutionising the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.展开更多
Carcinogenesis describes the process through which normal cells transform into malignant cells(cancer).There were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer(all cancers combined excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)w...Carcinogenesis describes the process through which normal cells transform into malignant cells(cancer).There were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer(all cancers combined excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)worldwide in 2020:8.8 million(48%)in females and 9.3 million(52%)in males,giving a male:female ratio of 10:9.5.It may be initiated by the action of biological,physical,or chemical agents that cause a non-lethal,permanent,DNA error on the cell with a consequence of altered cell metabolism.This altered cell metabolism include the Warburg effect,altered lipid and amino acid metabolism and production of various metabolites.It also results in unique metabolic dependencies that,in some cases,can be targeted with precision medicine and nutrition,including drugs that selectively target metabolic enzymes.Metabolic fingerprinting has been applied to the study of carcinogenesis and is particularly helpful in early diagnosis,staging and choice of treatment,thus improving health outcomes.This technology could therefore be harnessed effectively while combining with other omics technologies.展开更多
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate feasibility of biofeedback therapy in China Medical Institutions to improve dysfunction following stroke. DATA SOURCE: A computer-based online search of publications was conducted using the Vip ...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate feasibility of biofeedback therapy in China Medical Institutions to improve dysfunction following stroke. DATA SOURCE: A computer-based online search of publications was conducted using the Vip and PubMed Databases to identify publications that addressed biofeedback. The search key words included "electromyogram", "biofeedback", and "stroke". In total, 81 articles were retrieved. DATA SELECTION: Studies closely related to biofeedback, or studies with contents recently published in the same study field or in authorized journals, were included. Duplicated articles were excluded. Following full-text retrieval of selected articles, a total of 14 articles were collected, which addressed randomized, controlled trials of biofeedback therapy for dysfunction after stroke. Methodological quality was assessed for randomized, controlled trials using criteria from Cochrane reviewers’ handbook. Results were analyzed using Revman 4.2 software. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcomes and evaluation indices were expressed by odds ratio (OR), weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Potential publication bias was presented using the funnel plot. RESULTS: The study included 14 randomized, controlled trials of 1 147 patients. Following biofeedback therapy, meta-analysis results demonstrated that: (1) The total effective rate was significantly greater in the biofeedback therapy group compared with the control group [OR = 3.46, 95% CI (2.09, 5.73), P = 0.62]. (2) Electromyogram changes were better in biofeedback therapy patients compared to the control group [WMD = 22.31, 95% CI (17.19, 27.43), P < 0.001]. (3) Motor function was better in biofeedback therapy patients compared with the control group [WMD = 12.43, 95% CI (6.71, 18.16), P < 0.001]. (4) Daily living activities were better in biofeedback therapy patients compared with the con- trol group [WMD = 18.11, 95% CI (15.77, 20.44), P = 0.36]. (5) Joint range of motion was better in biofeedback therapy patients compared with the control group [WMD = 6.43, 95% CI (4.44, 8.41), P = 0.77]. Sensitivity analysis also demonstrated similar results after eliminating articles that described unknown diagnostic criteria and statistical methods. CONCLUSION: Following stroke, biofeedback therapy for dysfunction was shown to result in sig- nificant and valid outcomes, increased motor function and electromyogram values, improved joint range of motion, and improved daily living activities.展开更多
<strong>Introduction:</strong> The endemic nature of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at i...<strong>Introduction:</strong> The endemic nature of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at increased risk of occupational exposure. However, vaccination against HBV is not systematic among medical students in Cameroon. Thus, we sought to evaluate awareness and HBV vaccine coverage amongst medical students in Cameroon. <strong>Aim:</strong> The present study was aimed at determining the proportion of Medical and Paramedical students on internship at the Bamenda Regional Hospital (BRH) who are vaccinated and immune to hepatitis B virus (HBV). <strong>Methods:</strong> This was a hospital-based cross sectional study carried out at the BRH in Cameroon. Questionnaires were administered to 120 participants who signed an informed consent form and venous blood samples collected in dry tubes for the HBV-5 PANEL test. Data were collected within a period of two weeks. HBV vaccine status was defined as complete (3 doses), partial (1 or 2 doses), and unvaccinated. <strong>Results:</strong> Of 120 participants (87 females and 33 males), 56 (46.7%) were vaccinated at least once against HBV;15 (12.5%) were partially vaccinated and 41 (34.2%) completely vaccinated. Out of the 56 vaccinated individuals, only 13 (23.2%) were confirmed immunized against HBV by testing positive for hepatitis B surface antibodies. Only 3 (5.4%) students had done post-vaccination serologic test to confirm their immunized status. There was high exposure to potentially infected body fluids like blood (97.5%) and urine (87.5%). There was equally poor practice of adequate preventive measures like regular hand washing and the proper use of personal protective equipment. A prevalence of 3.1% of HBV amongst the unvaccinated group was recorded. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Only 1 in 3 medical students had completed the HBV vaccination series and only 26.8% of this cohort was confirmed immunized against HBV. This highlights the need for improved health policies aimed at increasing access and coverage of HBV immunization in high risk groups such as health workers.展开更多
Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and dir...Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and directs students’ learning. Assessment is also used for verification of achievement of objectives of training, feedback to students, licencing, certification, and screening of students for advanced training. It is guided by several principles, including the aims of the assessment (why assess), who to assess, timing (when to assess), what to assess, methods (how to assess), and the criteria for determining the usefulness of the assessment. Objective: To describe the assessment methods used during clinical years of the undergraduate programme at Moi University School of Medicine (MUSOM) and determine the student’s perspectives concerning the comprehensiveness, relevance, objectivity of various assessment methods and challenges faced. Methodology: The study was carried out at MUSOM and a cross-sectional study design was employed. Ten study participants were studied using convenience sampling. Data were collected using an interview guide and was analyzed using content analysis. An informed consent was obtained from the study participants. Results: The methods used during clinical years at MUSOM for assessing knowledge and its applications include multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ), modified essay questions (MEQ), long essay questions (LEQ), and oral exam. Whereas the methods for assessing clinical competence include long case, short cases, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE), and logbook. Students felt that MCQs were comprehensive, objective, and relevant to the curriculum content. They reported that feedback was not provided after assessments. Conclusion: The assessment methods used at MUSOM during clinical years include MCQ, SAQ, MEQ, LEQ, Short cases, long cases, and OSCE. Students reported varied perceptions of the different assessment methods but favored MCQ and OSCE over other formats for assessing knowledge and clinical skills respectively.展开更多
Objective:To green synthesize and characterize copper nanoparticles(Cu NPs)using Astragalus sinicus,as well as evaluate the acaricidal,larvacidal,and repellent activities of Cu NPs against Hyalomma anatolicum(H.anatol...Objective:To green synthesize and characterize copper nanoparticles(Cu NPs)using Astragalus sinicus,as well as evaluate the acaricidal,larvacidal,and repellent activities of Cu NPs against Hyalomma anatolicum(H.anatolicum),one of the most prevalent ticks infesting cattle in Saudi Arabia.Methods:Cu NPs were green synthesized by adding the Astragalus sinicus extract to a copper sulfate solution.The acaricidal,larvicidal,and repellent activities of Cu NPs against H.anatolicum were assessed via the adult immersion test,the larval packet test,and the vertical movement behavior of tick larvae,respectively.The effects of Cu NPs on acetylcholinesterase as well as oxidative enzyme activities were examined.Results:The green synthesized Cu NPs displayed a spherical form with a size range of 15-75 nm.After exposure of adult H.anatolicum to different concentrations of Cu NPs,the viability rate of adult H.anatolicum and the mean number,weight,and hatchability of eggs were noticeably reduced,in comparison to the control group(P<0.001).In addition,the viability rate of larvae considerably declined(P<0.001)with the LC_(50)and LC_(90)values of 11.30 and 20.34μg/m L,respectively.The maximum repellent activity of Cu NPs was observed at 50,100,and 200μg/m L with complete repellent activity after 60,120,and 180 min of exposure,respectively.Cu NPs,mainly at 1/2 LC_(50)and LC_(50)concentrations,markedly suppressed the acetylcholinesterase activity of the larval stage of H.anatolicum(P<0.001).Moreover,Cu NPs,mainly at LC_(50)dose,significantly elevated malondialdehyde level while declining glutathione-S-transferase level in H.anatolicum larvae(P<0.001).Conclusions:Cu NPs show potent acaricidal,larvicidal,and repellent activities against adults and larvae of H.anatolicum.However,further studies must be performed to clarify the precise mechanisms and the efficacy of Cu NPs in practical use.展开更多
The standard diagnostic modalities for Prostate Cancer (PC) include serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and histological examination of prostate biopsy. They are limited by l...The standard diagnostic modalities for Prostate Cancer (PC) include serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and histological examination of prostate biopsy. They are limited by low predictive potential and inability to predict which patients are at risk of developing metastatic disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the exon 4 of the KLK2 gene of subjects for changes in its nucleotide sequences (SNPs) and determine the correlation of these changes with serum PSA in an Igbo population of Nigeria. One hundred male subjects aged 40 years and above, who gave their consent, were used for the study. Their PSA determinations were done using ELISA technique while genetic studies were carried out using real-time PCR. tPSA, fPSA, and % fPSA of the subjects ranged between 0.8% - 18.30%, 0.10% - 1.60% and 0.0% - 0.7% respectively. Of the 100 subjects, 28 subjects had tPSA levels above 4.0 ng/ml with a mean of 7.10 (±3.30) ng/ml. Those with tPSA less than 4 ng/ml had a mean of 1.87 (±0.85) ng/m. 15 subjects showed SNPs with a mean tPSA of 6.87 (±4.82) ng/ml while the remaining 85 subjects without SNPs had a mean of 1.86 (±0.80) ng/ml. Results from direct DNA sequencing showed 11 SNPs. Ten subjects are curated in SNP database while one is uncurated. The Chi-square test showed significant association (p = 0.00) between tPSA levels and SNPs mutation (X<sup>2</sup> = 17.35, p = 0.00). A Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated that the positional arrangement of the SNP mutations had no effect on PSA-total or free-values (H (10) = 10.92, p = 0.28;H (10) = 10.07, p = 0.38 respectively). Two SNPs: rs6072 and rs74478031 were associated with elevated PSA levels (p < 0.05). Their presence, therefore, has the potential to serve, in conjunction with raised PSA, as biomarkers of prostate cancer in the study population.展开更多
In this article,a Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered(SEIR)epidemic model is considered.The equilibrium analysis and reproduction number are studied.The conventional models have made assumptions of homogeneity in...In this article,a Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered(SEIR)epidemic model is considered.The equilibrium analysis and reproduction number are studied.The conventional models have made assumptions of homogeneity in disease transmission that contradict the actual reality.However,it is crucial to consider the heterogeneity of the transmission rate when modeling disease dynamics.Describing the heterogeneity of disease transmission mathematically can be achieved by incorporating fuzzy theory.A numerical scheme nonstandard,finite difference(NSFD)approach is developed for the studied model and the results of numerical simulations are presented.Simulations of the constructed scheme are presented.The positivity,convergence and consistency of the developed technique are investigated using mathematical induction,Jacobean matrix and Taylor series expansions respectively.The suggested scheme preserves all these essential characteristics of the disease dynamical models.The numerical and simulation results reveal that the proposed NSFD method provides an adequate representation of the dynamics of the disease.Moreover,the obtained method generates plausible predictions that can be used by regulators to support the decision-making process to design and develop control strategies.Effects of the natural immunity on the infected class are studied which reveals that an increase in natural immunity can decrease the infection and vice versa.展开更多
Need for prompt access to healthcare led to this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitude of Sales men in Nigeria. It involved 362 Salesmen from some selected big companies in three states (...Need for prompt access to healthcare led to this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitude of Sales men in Nigeria. It involved 362 Salesmen from some selected big companies in three states (Taraba, Benue and Adamawa) and Abuja. An electronic survey prepared using Google Form was used to collect information through social media such as WhatsApp. The research tool was validated by three experts in public health and the reliability test was done using Cronbach Alpha and a 0.7 co-efficient was obtained. The findings from the study revealed that 98.1% respondents have heard about telemedicine while 98.1% agreed that mobile health can help especially during emergency. However, 97.2% knew telemedicine involves Live consultation and interactive sessions from a distance. Nevertheless, 95.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to access clinical services from a distance while 93.4% were aware that telemedicine has provision for storage and forwarding, 82.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to easily reach medical specialists. On their attitudes towards telemedicine, 49.7% and 49.4% of the respondents strongly agreed and agreed respectively that telemedicine makes it easier for one to reach his doctor while 42% and 49.4% agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine helps to curb the spread of infection. However, 47% and 49.7% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine enables one to receive medical attention even at odd hours or while in remote villages. Meanwhile, 42% and 49.4% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine reduces cost. Also, 44.2% and 51.9% of the respondents respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine offers appropriate medical follow-up. Nevertheless, 43.6% of the respondents agreed while 52.8% strongly agreed that telemedicine offers medical attention while one is in the comfort of his home. Finally, 45% and 47% of the participants respectively agreed and strongly agreed that with telemedicine one does not need to waste a whole day of work just to receive medical attention. In conclusion, the knowledge of telemedicine was high (82.9%) among the Salesmen while the attitude reflected high (93.6%) acceptance. Therefore, there is a need to introduce the use of telemedicine Apps to the Salesmen and also subsidize the applications.展开更多
The current study aimed to investigate the potential health impacts associated with Energy Drink (ED) consumption and its effects on general health, liver function, and kidney function among students at Jazan Universi...The current study aimed to investigate the potential health impacts associated with Energy Drink (ED) consumption and its effects on general health, liver function, and kidney function among students at Jazan University. EDs contain a variety of ingredients such as taurine, arginine, caffeine, acidity regulators, B vitamins, vitamin C, herbal extracts, and sugar. Previous studies have reported that EDs contain more caffeine content more a cup of coffee. Fifty-seven volunteer female students from the same socioeconomic background were eligible for the study based on their ED consumption habits. The students were divided into four groups: the control group (1) which did not consume EDs (19 students), group (2) which consumed 2 - 3 cans per week (19 students), group (3) which consumed 4 - 7 cans per week (14 students), and group (4) which consumed more than 7 cans per week (5 students). Five milliliters of venous blood were drawn from all subjects to determine ALT, AST, and GGT levels for liver function tests and creatinine, urea, uric acid, and BUN levels for kidney function tests. The results of the kidney function analysis showed that uric acid levels significantly increased (P 0.05) in all groups compared to the control group. The liver function analysis illustrated that, compared to the control group, only AST was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in groups 1 and 2. There was no significance in ALT and GGT in all groups. Overall, the study found that long-term ED consumption had a significant relationship to increased uric acid and AST concentrations, while urea and BUN decreased significantly. Further research is needed to understand the long-term health implications of ED consumption.展开更多
Background: Homocysteine is an important non-protein amino acid, very useful in all methylation reactions occurring in the body as the precursor of the sole methyl group donor S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAM). However, ele...Background: Homocysteine is an important non-protein amino acid, very useful in all methylation reactions occurring in the body as the precursor of the sole methyl group donor S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAM). However, elevated plasma homocysteine levels have been reported to contribute to epithelial damage leading to coronary artery disease and other metabolic syndromes. This study was aimed at evaluating the concentration of plasma homocysteine in diabetics and hypertensive patients in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methods: The study population included 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Hypertensivesubjectsas group (I), 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Normotensive subjects as group (II), 60 Hypertensive subjects as group (III), and 60 healthy subjects as control group within the age range of 30 - 70 years. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to quantitatively measure homocysteine in the serum sample, glycated haemoglobin were determined quantitatively using sandwich immunodetection and blood pressure was determined using mercury sphygnanometer. Statistics: The statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 9.4.1, and statistical significance was determined by a P Results: The results showed significantly higher plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensive comorbidity patients when compared to healthy controls, P Conclusion: Our result shows an increase in plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensives when compared to controls, and comorbidity instigates a higher increase in plasma levels when compared with the single morbidity.展开更多
Background: Donated blood contaminated with S. Typhi can cause post-transfusion sepsis. This study aimed to determine the correlation between some risk factors of typhoid fever and seroprevalence of antibodies against...Background: Donated blood contaminated with S. Typhi can cause post-transfusion sepsis. This study aimed to determine the correlation between some risk factors of typhoid fever and seroprevalence of antibodies against S. Typhi among blood donors. Methodology: Following informed consent, socio-demographic and information on risk factors of typhoid infection was obtained using pre-structured questionnaires from 400 apparently healthy blood donors at the Tema General Hospital. Blood was also collected for serology and cultured for identification of pathogens by standard bacteriological method. Results: Blood culture did not reveal any S. Typhi isolate out of the tested 400 (348 males and 52 females) samples from apparently healthy blood donors. However, IgM and IgG antibody seroprevalence of 9.3% and 3.5% were detected. Age group of 17 - 24 years was the highest risk group, persons with a history of typhoid infection, and sources of drinking water were major risk factors for typhoid infection. It was also observed that prevalence of IgM was highest among new donors (62.2%), but lower in donors with a history of 1 to 3 blood donations (32.4%) and least among regular donors (>3 donations (5.4%)). In addition, typhoid prevention awareness and typhoid knowledge (knowledge about typhoid transmission) among the donors were poor (4.3% and 5.9% respectively). Conclusions: This study has shown an overall seroprevalence of 9% and 3.5% for IgM and IgG antibodies respectively among blood donors in the Tema area in Ghana. We advocate for the mandatory screening of donor units intended for transfusion for S. Typhi. Furthermore, there is an urgent need for the health education of all persons in Ghana on preventive measures and the spread of S. Typhi.展开更多
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a distinct public health issue that calls for the quick development of novel treatments and viral detection. Due to their high specificity and reliabilit...Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a distinct public health issue that calls for the quick development of novel treatments and viral detection. Due to their high specificity and reliability, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as useful diagnostic and therapeutic tools for a variety of diseases. As a result, several scientists have jumped right into developing Ab-based assays for the identification of SARS-CoV-2 and Ab drugs for use as COVID-19 therapy agents. Since the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is essential for viral infection and has a known precise structure, it has become a key target for the creation of therapeutic antibodies. The use of Ab cocktails is anticipated to be a key component of an efficient COVID-19 treatment plan since SARS-CoV-2 is an RNA virus with a high mutation rate, particularly when subjected to the selection pressure of aggressively applied preventive vaccinations and neutralizing Abs. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection could provoke an overzealous immune response, leading to a cytokine storm that accelerates the onset of a severe disease. Abs to counteract cytokine storms are also actively being researched as COVID-19 therapies. Abs are now used in SARS-CoV-2 detection assays, including immunoglobulin and antigen tests, in addition to their use as medicines. In order to stop the spread of COVID-19, such Ab-based detection tests are essential surveillance tools. In this article, we’ll go over several important ideas related to mAb-based COVID-19 pandemic detection tests and treatments. Objective: To understand the role of hybridoma technology in therapeutic implications. 1) To study the basic concepts and options in hybridoma technology;2) To study the applications of hybridoma technology;3) To explore how hybridoma technology is applied in diagnostic histopathology. Method: For this method generally there is use of mouse or mammals are transfect with the Ags to find out the formation of antibody afterwards isolate the antibody which has been formed after injecting the antigens for a number of weeks. Following are the steps for mAbs: Step 1: In this step immunization of mouse is done;Step 2: Spleen is used for the isolation of B cells;Step 3: Cultivation of cancerous cells;Step 4: Merging of B cells with Myeloma cells;Step 5: This step cell lines are separated;Step 6: in the next step screening the suitable cell lines;Step 7: observation of multiplication in vitro as well as in vivo;Step 8: Harvesting. Discussion: Now a day there are many diseases which has been cured easily at the mean time it’s very difficult to diagnose and get the treatment. Due to advancement of monoclonal antibodies are used in the diagnosis and treatments such as COVID-19, SARS and SARS COV-2. Therefore important part of the monoclonal antibodies are its used in the diagnosis as well as in the treatment tools.展开更多
Aim: To evaluate chronic exposure of carmoisine at ADI doses on some hepatocellular and renal parameters of male and female albino rats as well as to determine sex-dependent toxicity. Study Design: The study involves ...Aim: To evaluate chronic exposure of carmoisine at ADI doses on some hepatocellular and renal parameters of male and female albino rats as well as to determine sex-dependent toxicity. Study Design: The study involves treatment for 30, 60, and 90 days. Each phase consists of 40 rats, divided into treatment and control groups. The treated groups were orally administered with 4.0 mg/kg of carmoisine daily for the periods of 30, 60, and 90 days. Methodology: At the end of the treatment, the rats were allowed to fast for 18 hours followed by the collection of 5 ml of whole blood specimens by means of cardiac puncture into Lithium Heparin bottles and fluoride oxalate bottles (for glucose only). Plasma obtained was analyzed for glucose (GLU), AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine (CRT), and urea. Hepatic and Renal tissues collected were fixed in 10% formol saline and later examined histologically using H&E stain. Statistical data analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 9.02. Results: Glucose indicated significant increases after 30, 60, and 90 days of chronic treatment at ADI doses. Urea, Creatinine, AST, ALT and ALP showed significantly higher values after 60 and 90 days of treatment (except creatinine in male rats and ALP in female rats after 60 and 90 days respectively). Hepatic distortions, vacuolation, compression of central vein were seen in the liver section while distortion of proximal and distal tubules, and inflammation of the glomerulus were observed in the renal tissue of the treated rats. Conclusion: The administration of camoisine over a period of 30 days at ADI dose did not indicate hepatocellullar and renal derangements as well histological distortions in liver, and kidneys. However, after 60 and 90 days, mild hepatocellular, and renal derangements were seen. No sex-dependent toxicity was observed.展开更多
Introduction: Tuberculosis is caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Looking at the evolution of the bacterium gene due to mutation is crucial to identify species circulating among patients in an area. W...Introduction: Tuberculosis is caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Looking at the evolution of the bacterium gene due to mutation is crucial to identify species circulating among patients in an area. WHO speculated that tuberculosis is caused by M. tuberculosis (MTB), but identification of the strains of MTB circulating in a particular area is important for the management of MTB and to identify pulmonary infections caused by non-tuberculosis mycobacterium. Contact tracing of drug resistant MTB in circulation in an area is also an important procedure of MTB therapeutic choice. Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify Mycobacterium species circulating in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 sputum samples collected from MTB patients were cultured in Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) solid media. Isolates on LJ media were confirmed using Zeihl Nelseen staining method for AFB and Standard Diagnosis Bioline TB Ag MPT64 Rapid test kit. The 16s rRNA gene amplification, agarose gel electrophoresis, and gene sequencing were conducted. Phylogenic analysis and evolutional distances of the strains are computed using the Juke-cantor method. Result: Out of 102 sputum samples examined 15 (14.7%) had growth of Mycobacterium species (AFB positive). The extracted DNA of MTB amplified on agarose gel electrophoresis aligned horizontally at lanes 1 - 15 showing 16S gene band (1500 bp). Two 2 (2.0%) are non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria species, while 13 (12.7%) were M. tuberculosis. The non-tuberculosis Mycobacterium species isolated are Mycobacteriode abscesses and Mycobacterium kansassii strain FDAARGOS 1534. The tuberculosis strains are Mycobacterium tuberculosis MG003 and R2092 but the predominant strain was MG003. The degree of the genetic evolution of the non-MTB Mycobacterium kansassii strain FDAARGOS 1534 was 75.4%. Conclusion: The two major strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) circulating in Bayelsa State are MTB MG003 and MTB R2092;MTB MG003 was predominant. The non-tuberculosis species are Mycobacteriode abscesses and Mycobacterium kansasii.展开更多
文摘Background: Infectious diseases associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) continue to pose significant public health challenges that necessitate continuous surveillance and interventions. This study investigates the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV infections within the academic community of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Given the potential for transmission in university settings and the importance of early detection and intervention, this research explores the extent of these infections and evaluates the outcomes of a medical outreach program aimed at addressing them. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit 513 participants using a convenience sampling approach between the 20<sup>th</sup> and 22<sup>nd</sup> of April 2022. Participants included students and staff members who voluntarily consented to the medical outreach and study. Serological assays were utilized to identify HIV, HBV and HCV infections. The medical outreach program’s design, implementation, and outcomes were evaluated, focusing on testing uptake, counselling utilization, and linkage to care. Statistical analysis employed GraphPad Prism version 9 software. Result: The study revealed low prevalence rates of HIV (0.6%), HBV (1.2%), and HCV (0.6%) infections within the university population. Age-based analysis indicated a slightly higher prevalence in the 15 - 24 age group. Gender-wise, HBV showed a marginal difference, with 1.3% among females and 0.9% among males. The medical outreach program achieved a testing uptake of 80.8%, with 75% utilizing counselling services, and 75% of those identified with infections successfully linked to care. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of infections and the effectiveness of a medical outreach program within a university community. While low prevalence rates are encouraging, the findings emphasize the continued importance of awareness and prevention efforts. The success of the outreach program in encouraging testing, providing counselling, and facilitating care linkage underscores its potential as a model for future interventions. Further research should delve into determinants of infection prevalence and barriers to care linkage for a more comprehensive understanding and improved intervention strategies.
基金the National Science and Technology Council of Taiwan,China,No.NSC112-2320-B-039-045-China Medical University Hospital,No.DMR-111-013,No.DMR-111-195,No.DMR-112-004 and No.DMR-112-177Department of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy and Ministry of Health and Welfare,No.MOHW-112-CMC-03.
文摘BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus(DM)is an independent risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),while insulin is a potent mitogen.Identifying a new therapeutic modality for preventing insulin users from developing HCC is a critical goal for researchers.AIM To investigate whether regular herbal medicine use can decrease HCC risk in DM patients with regular insulin control.METHODS We used data acquired from the Taiwan,Chinaese National Health Insurance research database between 2000 and 2017.We identified patients with DM who were prescribed insulin for>3 months.The herb user group was further defined as patients prescribed herbal medication for DM for>3 months per annum during RESULTS We initially enrolled 657144 DM patients with regular insulin use from 2000 to 2017.Among these,46849 patients had used a herbal treatment for DM,and 140547 patients were included as the matched control group.The baseline variables were similar between the herb users and nonusers.DM patients with regular herb use had a 12%decreased risk of HCC compared with the control group[adjusted hazard ratio(aHR)=0.88,95%CI=0.80–0.97].The cumulative incidence of HCC in the herb users was significantly lower than that of the nonusers.Patients with a herb use of>5 years cumulatively exhibited a protective effect against development of HCC(aHR=0.82,P<0.05).Of patients who developed HCC,herb users exhibited a longer survival time than nonusers(aHR=0.78,P=0.0001).Additionally,we report the top 10 herbs and formulas in prescriptions and summarize the potential pharmacological effects of the constituents.Our analysis indicated that Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge(Dan Shen),and Astragalus propinquus(Huang Qi)plus Trichosanthes kirilowii Maxim.(Tian Hua Fen)were the most frequent combination of single herbs.Meanwhile,Ji Sheng Shen Qi Wan plus Dan Shen was the most frequent combination of herbs and formulas.CONCLUSION This large-scale retrospective cohort study reveals that herbal medicine may decrease HCC risk by 12%in DM patients with regular insulin use.
文摘Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellular matrix substance (EPS). Microcolonies within biofilm are held together by interactions and bonding of the substances present in the EPS with their separation from the water channels. Similar to insoluble EPS, bacterial microcolonies release soluble exofactors that have direct impacts on the survivability, growth and antibacterial resistivity of other microcolonies made of single- or multi-species bacteria in the same biofilm. How the exofactors of microcolonies of one-type bacteria impact on microcolonies of other-type bacteria is still unclear. We studied about the role of exofactors released from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. Exofactors facilitate to transform the microenvironment where bacteria can acquire alternative lifestyle with a long survival period and resistivity to certain antimicrobial drugs.
文摘BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer(CRC)is the third most frequent and the second most fatal cancer.The search for more effective drugs to treat this disease is ongoing.A better understanding of the mechanisms of CRC development and progression may reveal new therapeutic strategies.Ubiquitin-specific peptidases(USPs),the largest group of the deubiquitinase protein family,have long been implicated in various cancers.There have been numerous studies on the role of USPs in CRC;however,a comprehensive view of this role is lacking.AIM To provide a systematic review of the studies investigating the roles and functions of USPs in CRC.METHODS We systematically queried the MEDLINE(via PubMed),Scopus,and Web of Science databases.RESULTS Our study highlights the pivotal role of various USPs in several processes implicated in CRC:Regulation of the cell cycle,apoptosis,cancer stemness,epithelial–mesenchymal transition,metastasis,DNA repair,and drug resistance.The findings of this study suggest that USPs have great potential as drug targets and noninvasive biomarkers in CRC.The dysregulation of USPs in CRC contributes to drug resistance through multiple mechanisms.CONCLUSION Targeting specific USPs involved in drug resistance pathways could provide a novel therapeutic strategy for overcoming resistance to current treatment regimens in CRC.
文摘Background:This research focuses on herbal medicine,an ancient healthcare practice,exploring the antibacterial attributes of fresh and dried leaf extracts from Momordica charantia(commonly known as Bitter melon)and Vernonia amygdalina(Bitter leaf).The study specifically investigates their effects on different bacterial strains associated with gastroenteritis.Methods:Four enteric bacterial isolates-Klebsiella pneumoniae,Salmonella typhi,Escherichia coli,and Proteus mirabilis-were obtained from the Medical Laboratory Unit at Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ilishan-Remo,Ogun State.Phytochemical screening and antibacterial testing were conducted using standard biochemical techniques and the Punch-hole agar diffusion method,respectively.Results:Qualitative phytochemical screening of the plant extracts revealed the presence of flavonoids,glycosides,and saponin in both plants,excluding terpenoids.Alkaloids were identified only in Vernonia amygdalina.Despite these phytochemicals,neither plant displayed inhibitory effects on the tested bacterial isolates(Escherichia coli,Proteus mirabilis,Klebsiella pneumoniae,and Salmonella typhi)when tested individually or in combination.Intriguingly,combining the fresh and dried leaf extracts of Momordica charantia and Vernonia amygdalina with a standard drug resulted in smaller mean zone diameters of inhibition(Escherichia coli range:14 mm–16 mm,Proteus mirabilis range:31 mm–35 mm,Klebsiella pneumoniae range:13 mm–22 mm,and Salmonella typhi range:35 mm–38 mm)compared to the drug tested alone(16 mm–45 mm).Conclusion:Despite previous indications of antibacterial properties in various extracts of V.amygdalina and M.charantia leaves,our study presents contradictory results,prompting the need for further investigation despite the presence of significant phytochemicals.
基金supported by a joint GUIPRS/AHEAD Scholarship and GU Postgraduate Research Scholarshipcurrently receiving funds from Cancer Australia (APP1145657)+2 种基金the National Health and Medical Research Council (APP 2002576 and APP 2012560)the Garnett Passe and Rodney Williams FoundationNIH R21 and the RBWH Foundation。
文摘Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls(n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p,miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was:area under curve (AUC):0.954, sensitivity:86%, specificity:90%,positive predictive value (PPV):87.8%and negative predictive value (NPV):88.5%whereas between OC and OPMD was:AUC:0.911,sensitivity:90%, specificity:82.7%, PPV:74.2%and NPV:89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the presence or risk of OC in OPMD patients. We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC,revolutionising the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.
文摘Carcinogenesis describes the process through which normal cells transform into malignant cells(cancer).There were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer(all cancers combined excluding non-melanoma skin cancer)worldwide in 2020:8.8 million(48%)in females and 9.3 million(52%)in males,giving a male:female ratio of 10:9.5.It may be initiated by the action of biological,physical,or chemical agents that cause a non-lethal,permanent,DNA error on the cell with a consequence of altered cell metabolism.This altered cell metabolism include the Warburg effect,altered lipid and amino acid metabolism and production of various metabolites.It also results in unique metabolic dependencies that,in some cases,can be targeted with precision medicine and nutrition,including drugs that selectively target metabolic enzymes.Metabolic fingerprinting has been applied to the study of carcinogenesis and is particularly helpful in early diagnosis,staging and choice of treatment,thus improving health outcomes.This technology could therefore be harnessed effectively while combining with other omics technologies.
基金a Grant from the Health Department of Jilin Province, No. 2009ZC002
文摘OBJECTIVE: To evaluate feasibility of biofeedback therapy in China Medical Institutions to improve dysfunction following stroke. DATA SOURCE: A computer-based online search of publications was conducted using the Vip and PubMed Databases to identify publications that addressed biofeedback. The search key words included "electromyogram", "biofeedback", and "stroke". In total, 81 articles were retrieved. DATA SELECTION: Studies closely related to biofeedback, or studies with contents recently published in the same study field or in authorized journals, were included. Duplicated articles were excluded. Following full-text retrieval of selected articles, a total of 14 articles were collected, which addressed randomized, controlled trials of biofeedback therapy for dysfunction after stroke. Methodological quality was assessed for randomized, controlled trials using criteria from Cochrane reviewers’ handbook. Results were analyzed using Revman 4.2 software. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Outcomes and evaluation indices were expressed by odds ratio (OR), weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Potential publication bias was presented using the funnel plot. RESULTS: The study included 14 randomized, controlled trials of 1 147 patients. Following biofeedback therapy, meta-analysis results demonstrated that: (1) The total effective rate was significantly greater in the biofeedback therapy group compared with the control group [OR = 3.46, 95% CI (2.09, 5.73), P = 0.62]. (2) Electromyogram changes were better in biofeedback therapy patients compared to the control group [WMD = 22.31, 95% CI (17.19, 27.43), P < 0.001]. (3) Motor function was better in biofeedback therapy patients compared with the control group [WMD = 12.43, 95% CI (6.71, 18.16), P < 0.001]. (4) Daily living activities were better in biofeedback therapy patients compared with the con- trol group [WMD = 18.11, 95% CI (15.77, 20.44), P = 0.36]. (5) Joint range of motion was better in biofeedback therapy patients compared with the control group [WMD = 6.43, 95% CI (4.44, 8.41), P = 0.77]. Sensitivity analysis also demonstrated similar results after eliminating articles that described unknown diagnostic criteria and statistical methods. CONCLUSION: Following stroke, biofeedback therapy for dysfunction was shown to result in sig- nificant and valid outcomes, increased motor function and electromyogram values, improved joint range of motion, and improved daily living activities.
文摘<strong>Introduction:</strong> The endemic nature of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Sub-Saharan Africa is a significant public health problem that places health care providers (medical students inclusive) at increased risk of occupational exposure. However, vaccination against HBV is not systematic among medical students in Cameroon. Thus, we sought to evaluate awareness and HBV vaccine coverage amongst medical students in Cameroon. <strong>Aim:</strong> The present study was aimed at determining the proportion of Medical and Paramedical students on internship at the Bamenda Regional Hospital (BRH) who are vaccinated and immune to hepatitis B virus (HBV). <strong>Methods:</strong> This was a hospital-based cross sectional study carried out at the BRH in Cameroon. Questionnaires were administered to 120 participants who signed an informed consent form and venous blood samples collected in dry tubes for the HBV-5 PANEL test. Data were collected within a period of two weeks. HBV vaccine status was defined as complete (3 doses), partial (1 or 2 doses), and unvaccinated. <strong>Results:</strong> Of 120 participants (87 females and 33 males), 56 (46.7%) were vaccinated at least once against HBV;15 (12.5%) were partially vaccinated and 41 (34.2%) completely vaccinated. Out of the 56 vaccinated individuals, only 13 (23.2%) were confirmed immunized against HBV by testing positive for hepatitis B surface antibodies. Only 3 (5.4%) students had done post-vaccination serologic test to confirm their immunized status. There was high exposure to potentially infected body fluids like blood (97.5%) and urine (87.5%). There was equally poor practice of adequate preventive measures like regular hand washing and the proper use of personal protective equipment. A prevalence of 3.1% of HBV amongst the unvaccinated group was recorded. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> Only 1 in 3 medical students had completed the HBV vaccination series and only 26.8% of this cohort was confirmed immunized against HBV. This highlights the need for improved health policies aimed at increasing access and coverage of HBV immunization in high risk groups such as health workers.
文摘Background: Assessment is the systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs undertaken to improve teaching and learning. It ensures quality in training programmes, motivates, and directs students’ learning. Assessment is also used for verification of achievement of objectives of training, feedback to students, licencing, certification, and screening of students for advanced training. It is guided by several principles, including the aims of the assessment (why assess), who to assess, timing (when to assess), what to assess, methods (how to assess), and the criteria for determining the usefulness of the assessment. Objective: To describe the assessment methods used during clinical years of the undergraduate programme at Moi University School of Medicine (MUSOM) and determine the student’s perspectives concerning the comprehensiveness, relevance, objectivity of various assessment methods and challenges faced. Methodology: The study was carried out at MUSOM and a cross-sectional study design was employed. Ten study participants were studied using convenience sampling. Data were collected using an interview guide and was analyzed using content analysis. An informed consent was obtained from the study participants. Results: The methods used during clinical years at MUSOM for assessing knowledge and its applications include multiple-choice questions (MCQ), short answer questions (SAQ), modified essay questions (MEQ), long essay questions (LEQ), and oral exam. Whereas the methods for assessing clinical competence include long case, short cases, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCE), and logbook. Students felt that MCQs were comprehensive, objective, and relevant to the curriculum content. They reported that feedback was not provided after assessments. Conclusion: The assessment methods used at MUSOM during clinical years include MCQ, SAQ, MEQ, LEQ, Short cases, long cases, and OSCE. Students reported varied perceptions of the different assessment methods but favored MCQ and OSCE over other formats for assessing knowledge and clinical skills respectively.
文摘Objective:To green synthesize and characterize copper nanoparticles(Cu NPs)using Astragalus sinicus,as well as evaluate the acaricidal,larvacidal,and repellent activities of Cu NPs against Hyalomma anatolicum(H.anatolicum),one of the most prevalent ticks infesting cattle in Saudi Arabia.Methods:Cu NPs were green synthesized by adding the Astragalus sinicus extract to a copper sulfate solution.The acaricidal,larvicidal,and repellent activities of Cu NPs against H.anatolicum were assessed via the adult immersion test,the larval packet test,and the vertical movement behavior of tick larvae,respectively.The effects of Cu NPs on acetylcholinesterase as well as oxidative enzyme activities were examined.Results:The green synthesized Cu NPs displayed a spherical form with a size range of 15-75 nm.After exposure of adult H.anatolicum to different concentrations of Cu NPs,the viability rate of adult H.anatolicum and the mean number,weight,and hatchability of eggs were noticeably reduced,in comparison to the control group(P<0.001).In addition,the viability rate of larvae considerably declined(P<0.001)with the LC_(50)and LC_(90)values of 11.30 and 20.34μg/m L,respectively.The maximum repellent activity of Cu NPs was observed at 50,100,and 200μg/m L with complete repellent activity after 60,120,and 180 min of exposure,respectively.Cu NPs,mainly at 1/2 LC_(50)and LC_(50)concentrations,markedly suppressed the acetylcholinesterase activity of the larval stage of H.anatolicum(P<0.001).Moreover,Cu NPs,mainly at LC_(50)dose,significantly elevated malondialdehyde level while declining glutathione-S-transferase level in H.anatolicum larvae(P<0.001).Conclusions:Cu NPs show potent acaricidal,larvicidal,and repellent activities against adults and larvae of H.anatolicum.However,further studies must be performed to clarify the precise mechanisms and the efficacy of Cu NPs in practical use.
文摘The standard diagnostic modalities for Prostate Cancer (PC) include serum Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) assay, Digital Rectal Examination (DRE), and histological examination of prostate biopsy. They are limited by low predictive potential and inability to predict which patients are at risk of developing metastatic disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the exon 4 of the KLK2 gene of subjects for changes in its nucleotide sequences (SNPs) and determine the correlation of these changes with serum PSA in an Igbo population of Nigeria. One hundred male subjects aged 40 years and above, who gave their consent, were used for the study. Their PSA determinations were done using ELISA technique while genetic studies were carried out using real-time PCR. tPSA, fPSA, and % fPSA of the subjects ranged between 0.8% - 18.30%, 0.10% - 1.60% and 0.0% - 0.7% respectively. Of the 100 subjects, 28 subjects had tPSA levels above 4.0 ng/ml with a mean of 7.10 (±3.30) ng/ml. Those with tPSA less than 4 ng/ml had a mean of 1.87 (±0.85) ng/m. 15 subjects showed SNPs with a mean tPSA of 6.87 (±4.82) ng/ml while the remaining 85 subjects without SNPs had a mean of 1.86 (±0.80) ng/ml. Results from direct DNA sequencing showed 11 SNPs. Ten subjects are curated in SNP database while one is uncurated. The Chi-square test showed significant association (p = 0.00) between tPSA levels and SNPs mutation (X<sup>2</sup> = 17.35, p = 0.00). A Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated that the positional arrangement of the SNP mutations had no effect on PSA-total or free-values (H (10) = 10.92, p = 0.28;H (10) = 10.07, p = 0.38 respectively). Two SNPs: rs6072 and rs74478031 were associated with elevated PSA levels (p < 0.05). Their presence, therefore, has the potential to serve, in conjunction with raised PSA, as biomarkers of prostate cancer in the study population.
基金funded by the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia of funder Grant Number ISP22-6 and the APC was funded by the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia.
文摘In this article,a Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Recovered(SEIR)epidemic model is considered.The equilibrium analysis and reproduction number are studied.The conventional models have made assumptions of homogeneity in disease transmission that contradict the actual reality.However,it is crucial to consider the heterogeneity of the transmission rate when modeling disease dynamics.Describing the heterogeneity of disease transmission mathematically can be achieved by incorporating fuzzy theory.A numerical scheme nonstandard,finite difference(NSFD)approach is developed for the studied model and the results of numerical simulations are presented.Simulations of the constructed scheme are presented.The positivity,convergence and consistency of the developed technique are investigated using mathematical induction,Jacobean matrix and Taylor series expansions respectively.The suggested scheme preserves all these essential characteristics of the disease dynamical models.The numerical and simulation results reveal that the proposed NSFD method provides an adequate representation of the dynamics of the disease.Moreover,the obtained method generates plausible predictions that can be used by regulators to support the decision-making process to design and develop control strategies.Effects of the natural immunity on the infected class are studied which reveals that an increase in natural immunity can decrease the infection and vice versa.
文摘Need for prompt access to healthcare led to this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitude of Sales men in Nigeria. It involved 362 Salesmen from some selected big companies in three states (Taraba, Benue and Adamawa) and Abuja. An electronic survey prepared using Google Form was used to collect information through social media such as WhatsApp. The research tool was validated by three experts in public health and the reliability test was done using Cronbach Alpha and a 0.7 co-efficient was obtained. The findings from the study revealed that 98.1% respondents have heard about telemedicine while 98.1% agreed that mobile health can help especially during emergency. However, 97.2% knew telemedicine involves Live consultation and interactive sessions from a distance. Nevertheless, 95.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to access clinical services from a distance while 93.4% were aware that telemedicine has provision for storage and forwarding, 82.9% knew telemedicine makes it possible for one to easily reach medical specialists. On their attitudes towards telemedicine, 49.7% and 49.4% of the respondents strongly agreed and agreed respectively that telemedicine makes it easier for one to reach his doctor while 42% and 49.4% agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine helps to curb the spread of infection. However, 47% and 49.7% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine enables one to receive medical attention even at odd hours or while in remote villages. Meanwhile, 42% and 49.4% respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine reduces cost. Also, 44.2% and 51.9% of the respondents respectively agreed and strongly agreed that telemedicine offers appropriate medical follow-up. Nevertheless, 43.6% of the respondents agreed while 52.8% strongly agreed that telemedicine offers medical attention while one is in the comfort of his home. Finally, 45% and 47% of the participants respectively agreed and strongly agreed that with telemedicine one does not need to waste a whole day of work just to receive medical attention. In conclusion, the knowledge of telemedicine was high (82.9%) among the Salesmen while the attitude reflected high (93.6%) acceptance. Therefore, there is a need to introduce the use of telemedicine Apps to the Salesmen and also subsidize the applications.
文摘The current study aimed to investigate the potential health impacts associated with Energy Drink (ED) consumption and its effects on general health, liver function, and kidney function among students at Jazan University. EDs contain a variety of ingredients such as taurine, arginine, caffeine, acidity regulators, B vitamins, vitamin C, herbal extracts, and sugar. Previous studies have reported that EDs contain more caffeine content more a cup of coffee. Fifty-seven volunteer female students from the same socioeconomic background were eligible for the study based on their ED consumption habits. The students were divided into four groups: the control group (1) which did not consume EDs (19 students), group (2) which consumed 2 - 3 cans per week (19 students), group (3) which consumed 4 - 7 cans per week (14 students), and group (4) which consumed more than 7 cans per week (5 students). Five milliliters of venous blood were drawn from all subjects to determine ALT, AST, and GGT levels for liver function tests and creatinine, urea, uric acid, and BUN levels for kidney function tests. The results of the kidney function analysis showed that uric acid levels significantly increased (P 0.05) in all groups compared to the control group. The liver function analysis illustrated that, compared to the control group, only AST was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in groups 1 and 2. There was no significance in ALT and GGT in all groups. Overall, the study found that long-term ED consumption had a significant relationship to increased uric acid and AST concentrations, while urea and BUN decreased significantly. Further research is needed to understand the long-term health implications of ED consumption.
文摘Background: Homocysteine is an important non-protein amino acid, very useful in all methylation reactions occurring in the body as the precursor of the sole methyl group donor S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAM). However, elevated plasma homocysteine levels have been reported to contribute to epithelial damage leading to coronary artery disease and other metabolic syndromes. This study was aimed at evaluating the concentration of plasma homocysteine in diabetics and hypertensive patients in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methods: The study population included 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Hypertensivesubjectsas group (I), 60 Type II diabetes mellitus and Normotensive subjects as group (II), 60 Hypertensive subjects as group (III), and 60 healthy subjects as control group within the age range of 30 - 70 years. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to quantitatively measure homocysteine in the serum sample, glycated haemoglobin were determined quantitatively using sandwich immunodetection and blood pressure was determined using mercury sphygnanometer. Statistics: The statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 9.4.1, and statistical significance was determined by a P Results: The results showed significantly higher plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensive comorbidity patients when compared to healthy controls, P Conclusion: Our result shows an increase in plasma homocysteine levels in diabetics and hypertensives when compared to controls, and comorbidity instigates a higher increase in plasma levels when compared with the single morbidity.
文摘Background: Donated blood contaminated with S. Typhi can cause post-transfusion sepsis. This study aimed to determine the correlation between some risk factors of typhoid fever and seroprevalence of antibodies against S. Typhi among blood donors. Methodology: Following informed consent, socio-demographic and information on risk factors of typhoid infection was obtained using pre-structured questionnaires from 400 apparently healthy blood donors at the Tema General Hospital. Blood was also collected for serology and cultured for identification of pathogens by standard bacteriological method. Results: Blood culture did not reveal any S. Typhi isolate out of the tested 400 (348 males and 52 females) samples from apparently healthy blood donors. However, IgM and IgG antibody seroprevalence of 9.3% and 3.5% were detected. Age group of 17 - 24 years was the highest risk group, persons with a history of typhoid infection, and sources of drinking water were major risk factors for typhoid infection. It was also observed that prevalence of IgM was highest among new donors (62.2%), but lower in donors with a history of 1 to 3 blood donations (32.4%) and least among regular donors (>3 donations (5.4%)). In addition, typhoid prevention awareness and typhoid knowledge (knowledge about typhoid transmission) among the donors were poor (4.3% and 5.9% respectively). Conclusions: This study has shown an overall seroprevalence of 9% and 3.5% for IgM and IgG antibodies respectively among blood donors in the Tema area in Ghana. We advocate for the mandatory screening of donor units intended for transfusion for S. Typhi. Furthermore, there is an urgent need for the health education of all persons in Ghana on preventive measures and the spread of S. Typhi.
文摘Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a distinct public health issue that calls for the quick development of novel treatments and viral detection. Due to their high specificity and reliability, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as useful diagnostic and therapeutic tools for a variety of diseases. As a result, several scientists have jumped right into developing Ab-based assays for the identification of SARS-CoV-2 and Ab drugs for use as COVID-19 therapy agents. Since the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is essential for viral infection and has a known precise structure, it has become a key target for the creation of therapeutic antibodies. The use of Ab cocktails is anticipated to be a key component of an efficient COVID-19 treatment plan since SARS-CoV-2 is an RNA virus with a high mutation rate, particularly when subjected to the selection pressure of aggressively applied preventive vaccinations and neutralizing Abs. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection could provoke an overzealous immune response, leading to a cytokine storm that accelerates the onset of a severe disease. Abs to counteract cytokine storms are also actively being researched as COVID-19 therapies. Abs are now used in SARS-CoV-2 detection assays, including immunoglobulin and antigen tests, in addition to their use as medicines. In order to stop the spread of COVID-19, such Ab-based detection tests are essential surveillance tools. In this article, we’ll go over several important ideas related to mAb-based COVID-19 pandemic detection tests and treatments. Objective: To understand the role of hybridoma technology in therapeutic implications. 1) To study the basic concepts and options in hybridoma technology;2) To study the applications of hybridoma technology;3) To explore how hybridoma technology is applied in diagnostic histopathology. Method: For this method generally there is use of mouse or mammals are transfect with the Ags to find out the formation of antibody afterwards isolate the antibody which has been formed after injecting the antigens for a number of weeks. Following are the steps for mAbs: Step 1: In this step immunization of mouse is done;Step 2: Spleen is used for the isolation of B cells;Step 3: Cultivation of cancerous cells;Step 4: Merging of B cells with Myeloma cells;Step 5: This step cell lines are separated;Step 6: in the next step screening the suitable cell lines;Step 7: observation of multiplication in vitro as well as in vivo;Step 8: Harvesting. Discussion: Now a day there are many diseases which has been cured easily at the mean time it’s very difficult to diagnose and get the treatment. Due to advancement of monoclonal antibodies are used in the diagnosis and treatments such as COVID-19, SARS and SARS COV-2. Therefore important part of the monoclonal antibodies are its used in the diagnosis as well as in the treatment tools.
文摘Aim: To evaluate chronic exposure of carmoisine at ADI doses on some hepatocellular and renal parameters of male and female albino rats as well as to determine sex-dependent toxicity. Study Design: The study involves treatment for 30, 60, and 90 days. Each phase consists of 40 rats, divided into treatment and control groups. The treated groups were orally administered with 4.0 mg/kg of carmoisine daily for the periods of 30, 60, and 90 days. Methodology: At the end of the treatment, the rats were allowed to fast for 18 hours followed by the collection of 5 ml of whole blood specimens by means of cardiac puncture into Lithium Heparin bottles and fluoride oxalate bottles (for glucose only). Plasma obtained was analyzed for glucose (GLU), AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine (CRT), and urea. Hepatic and Renal tissues collected were fixed in 10% formol saline and later examined histologically using H&E stain. Statistical data analysis was done using GraphPad Prism version 9.02. Results: Glucose indicated significant increases after 30, 60, and 90 days of chronic treatment at ADI doses. Urea, Creatinine, AST, ALT and ALP showed significantly higher values after 60 and 90 days of treatment (except creatinine in male rats and ALP in female rats after 60 and 90 days respectively). Hepatic distortions, vacuolation, compression of central vein were seen in the liver section while distortion of proximal and distal tubules, and inflammation of the glomerulus were observed in the renal tissue of the treated rats. Conclusion: The administration of camoisine over a period of 30 days at ADI dose did not indicate hepatocellullar and renal derangements as well histological distortions in liver, and kidneys. However, after 60 and 90 days, mild hepatocellular, and renal derangements were seen. No sex-dependent toxicity was observed.
文摘Introduction: Tuberculosis is caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Looking at the evolution of the bacterium gene due to mutation is crucial to identify species circulating among patients in an area. WHO speculated that tuberculosis is caused by M. tuberculosis (MTB), but identification of the strains of MTB circulating in a particular area is important for the management of MTB and to identify pulmonary infections caused by non-tuberculosis mycobacterium. Contact tracing of drug resistant MTB in circulation in an area is also an important procedure of MTB therapeutic choice. Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify Mycobacterium species circulating in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 sputum samples collected from MTB patients were cultured in Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) solid media. Isolates on LJ media were confirmed using Zeihl Nelseen staining method for AFB and Standard Diagnosis Bioline TB Ag MPT64 Rapid test kit. The 16s rRNA gene amplification, agarose gel electrophoresis, and gene sequencing were conducted. Phylogenic analysis and evolutional distances of the strains are computed using the Juke-cantor method. Result: Out of 102 sputum samples examined 15 (14.7%) had growth of Mycobacterium species (AFB positive). The extracted DNA of MTB amplified on agarose gel electrophoresis aligned horizontally at lanes 1 - 15 showing 16S gene band (1500 bp). Two 2 (2.0%) are non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria species, while 13 (12.7%) were M. tuberculosis. The non-tuberculosis Mycobacterium species isolated are Mycobacteriode abscesses and Mycobacterium kansassii strain FDAARGOS 1534. The tuberculosis strains are Mycobacterium tuberculosis MG003 and R2092 but the predominant strain was MG003. The degree of the genetic evolution of the non-MTB Mycobacterium kansassii strain FDAARGOS 1534 was 75.4%. Conclusion: The two major strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) circulating in Bayelsa State are MTB MG003 and MTB R2092;MTB MG003 was predominant. The non-tuberculosis species are Mycobacteriode abscesses and Mycobacterium kansasii.
