scholarly journals Mycotoxins and health risks

1986 ◽  
Vol 5 (3) ◽  
pp. 154-156
Author(s):  
P. G. Thiel
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Health Risks ◽  
Chronic Exposure ◽  
Epidemiological Data ◽  
Domestic Animals ◽  
Agricultural Products ◽  
Farm Animals ◽  
Fungal Contamination ◽  
Experimental Animals

Fungal contamination of agricultural products can prove to be harmful to humans and domestic animals as these fungi produce a variety of mycotoxins which can eventually occur in food. Acute intoxications with mycotoxins occur regularly in farm animals but, fortunately, are infrequently observed in humans. However, the chronic exposure of humans to mycotoxins occurs regularly. Such exposures are potentially teratogenic and carcmogenic and can suppress the immune system. It is presently impossible to establish safe levels of exposure for most mycotoxins due to scanty epidemiological data and insufficient observations on experimental animals. With respect to aflatoxin all available data point to a real health risk. Risk analysis based on epidemiological observations shows that the liver-cancer risk for individuals in South Africa is potentially increased by continued exposure to the present legally permitted level of aflatoxin in food.

scholarly journals Revealing spatio-temporal patterns of rabies spread among various categories of animals in the Republic of Kazakhstan, 2010-2013

2016 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarsenbay K. Abdrakhmanov ◽  
Kanatzhan K. Beisembayev ◽  
Fedor I. Кorennoy ◽  
Gulzhan N. Yessembekova ◽  
Dosym B. Кushubaev ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Population Level ◽  
Epidemiological Data ◽  
Domestic Animals ◽  
Scan Statistics ◽  
Farm Animals ◽  
Initial Growth ◽  
Wild Animals ◽  
Basic Reproductive Ratio ◽  
Spatio Temporal ◽  
The Republic

This study estimated the basic reproductive ratio of rabies at the population level in wild animals (foxes), farm animals (cattle, camels, horses, sheep) and what we classified as domestic animals (cats, dogs) in the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK). It also aimed at forecasting the possible number of new outbreaks in case of emergence of the disease in new territories. We considered cases of rabies in animals in RK from 2010 to 2013, recorded by regional veterinary services. Statistically significant space-time clusters of outbreaks in three subpopulations were detected by means of Kulldorff Scan statistics. Theoretical curves were then fitted to epidemiological data within each cluster assuming exponential initial growth, which was followed up by calculation of the basic reproductive ratio R<sub>0</sub>. For farm animals, the value of R<sub>0</sub> was 1.62 (1.11-2.26) and for wild animals 1.84 (1.08- 3.13), while it was close to 1 for domestic animals. Using the values obtained, an initial phase of possible epidemic was simulated in order to predict the expected number of secondary cases if the disease were introduced into a new area. The possible number of new cases for 20 weeks was estimated at 5 (1-16) for farm animals, 17 (1-113) for wild animals and about 1 in the category of domestic animals. These results have been used to produce set of recommendations for organising of preventive and contra-epizootic measures against rabies expected to be applied by state veterinarian services.

scholarly journals The effectiveness of mineral adaptogen in experimental immunosuppression

2021 ◽  
Vol 215 (12) ◽  
pp. 29-40
Author(s):  
M. Drozd
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Research Methods ◽  
Experimental Studies ◽  
The Body ◽  
Natural Resistance ◽  
Farm Animals ◽  
Laboratory Animals ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Statistical Research ◽  
Experimental Animals

Abstract. Modern conditions of animal husbandry and poultry farming dictate a continuous search for effective means that increase the natural resistance of the organism of farm animals and poultry. The purpose of the study. In this regard, an experimental study was conducted on laboratory animals using a mineral adaptogen of domestic production in order to determine its effectiveness in conditions of artificially induced immunosuppression. The objectives of the study were to determine the immunobiochemical status, subcellular and intra-organ changes in the organs of the immune system at all levels. Research methods. Experimental studies were carried out using generally accepted zootechnical, pathomorphological, histological, immunobiochemical and statistical research methods. Results. Immunobiochemical changes in the body of experimental animals are described. Microscopic changes at the level of tissues and cells in the organs of the immune system at all levels are described. Changes in the organs of the immune system during immunosuppression and against the background of feeding mineral adaptogen are described. Morphological examination of the immune system organs in experimental animals revealed prolonged immunosuppressive changes for 14 days. At the same time, after induced immunosuppression, significant structural changes remain in the central and peripheral organs of the immune system in the form of lymphoid tissue atrophy (in the thymus, both in the organ of central immunogenesis and in the organs of the peripheral immune system – the spleen and lymph nodes and intra-organ lymph formations). During histological studies, the structure of cells and tissues, when using a mineral adaptogen, was more morphologically mature and was in a functionally active state, and dystrophic and necrotic processes were observed in the control group. The conducted studies convincingly prove the effect of mineral adaptogen on increasing natural resistance and its immunoprotective properties. Scientific novelty. For the first time in experimental conditions, a simultaneous assessment of the immunobiochemical parameters of the blood of laboratory animals and a microscopic examination of the organs of the immune system at all levels with morphometric analysis of the data obtained were given. As a result of the conducted studies, the immuno- and organoprotective effect of feeding the mineral adaptogen was proved and the immunomodulatory effect was morphometrically confirmed.

Influence of the Intestinal Microbiota on Diabetes Management

2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (15) ◽  
pp. 1603-1615
Author(s):  
Eva Alvarez-Vieites ◽  
Arora López-Santamarina ◽  
José M. Miranda ◽  
Alicia del Carmen Mondragón ◽  
Alexandre Lamas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Immune System ◽  
Intestinal Microbiota ◽  
Diabetes Management ◽  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Focused Attention ◽  
Economic Implications ◽  
Experimental Animals ◽  
Low Intensity ◽  
New Treatments ◽  
The Relationship

In recent decades, there has been a very rapid increase in the prevalence of diabetes globally, with serious health and economic implications. Although today there are several therapeutic treatments for this disease, these do not address the causes of the disease and have serious side effects, so it is necessary to seek new treatments to replace or complement the existing ones. Among these complementary treatments, a strong link between the intestinal microbiota and diabetes has been demonstrated, which has focused attention on the use of biotherapy to regulate the function of the intestinal microbiota and, thus, treat diabetes. In this way, the main objective of this work is to provide a review of the latest scientific evidence on diabetes, gathering information about new trends in its management, and especially, the influence of the intestinal microbiota and microbiome on this pathology. It is possible to conclude that the relationship between the intestinal microbiota and diabetes is carried out through alterations in energy metabolism, the immune system, changes in intestinal permeability, and a state of low-intensity systemic inflammation. Although, currently, most of the experimental work, using probiotics for diabetes management, has been done on experimental animals, the results obtained are promising. Thus, the modification of the microbiota through biotherapy has shown to improve the symptoms and severity of diabetes through various mechanisms related to these alterations.

Geophysical Variables and Behavior: LIII. Epidemiological Considerations for Incidence of Cancer and Depression in Areas of Frequent UFO Reports

1988 ◽  
Vol 67 (3) ◽  
pp. 799-803 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael A. Persinger
Keyword(s):  
High Risk ◽  
Health Risks ◽  
Epidemiological Data ◽  
High Risk Population ◽  
Strain Fields ◽  
Close Proximity ◽  
Geophysical Processes ◽  
Power Frequency ◽  
Physical Forces ◽  
And Behavior

Luminous phenomena and anomalous physical forces have been hypothesized to be generated by focal tectonic strain fields that precede earthquakes. If these geophysical processes exist, then their spatial and temporal density should be greatest during periods of protracted, localized UFO reports; they might be used as dosimetric indicators. Contemporary epidemiological data concerning the health risks of power frequency electromagnetic fields and radon gas levels (expected correlates of certain tectonic strain fields), suggest that increased incidence (odds ratios greater 1:3) of brain tumors and leukemia should be evident within “flap” areas. In addition the frequency of variants of temporal lobe lability, psychological depression and posttraumatic stress should be significantly elevated. UFO field investigators, because they have repeated, intermittent close proximity to these fields, are considered to be a particularly high risk population for these disorders.

scholarly journals Animals in the legal culture of Prussian towns (the 13th–16th centuries): An overview

2019 ◽  
pp. 171-182
Author(s):  
Paweł Mateusz Modrzyński
Keyword(s):  
Human Life ◽  
Animal Husbandry ◽  
Legal Culture ◽  
Domestic Animals ◽  
Farm Animals ◽  
Animal Waste ◽  
Wild Animals ◽  
Household Appliances

Animals were a permanent element in the landscape of medieval towns. Many residents of the then urban centres lived of animal husbandry. In addition to farm animals (e.g. pigs), they kept domestic animals (e.g. dogs and cats) as well as wild animals. The latter often sought food in garbage and suburbs. Such animals were also kept for entertainment. Authorities of Prussian towns regulated many issues related to the functioning of towns, including those concerning animal husbandry. Animals could pose a threat to the health and life of residents. They were also considered to be pests that destroy crops, orchards, and household appliances. The legislation of the period was focused on determining guilt for crimes and offenses committed by animals. Either an animal, treated as an entity responsible for the harmful act, or its owner was blamed for the misconducts. The presence of animals, especially livestock, was considered to be the cause of considerable sanitary problems in towns, mainly due to animal waste. Town authorities regulated issues concerning cattle herding and grazing. The care over the herd was entrusted to urban shepherds whose service was regulated by town legislation. The problem of the perception of animals by the society of that time was also significant. Although seemingly unwanted, they were the only source of income for many residents. For some, animals were pests, and for others, a guarantee of fragile existence. It was also a time when people began to wonder what exactly an animal is, what role it should play in human life, and how to treat it.

Rhizopus rhizopodiformis. [Descriptions of Fungi and Bacteria].

1977 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. A. Lunn
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Digestive Tract ◽  
Sierra Leone ◽  
Geographical Distribution ◽  
Rhesus Monkeys ◽  
Fetal Lung ◽  
Domestic Animals ◽  
Diabetic Woman ◽  
Subcutaneous Infection ◽  
Diabetic Rabbits

Abstract A description is provided for Rhizopus rhizopodiformis. Information is included on the disease caused by the organism, its transmission, geographical distribution, and hosts. HOSTS: From soil and bread, and pathogenic to man and warm blooded animals (causing mycoses). DISEASE: Has been isolated from a subcutaneous infection in a diabetic woman (RMVM 4, 1733); from phycomycosis in a pig (RMVM 8, 885, as R. cohnii); from horse (Costantin & Lucet, 1903, as R. equinus), this isolate being pathogenic to rabbits; and from domestic animals (RMVM 1, 215). It is reported as a cause of bovine mycotic abortion (Ballarini, 1955, as R. equinus) and has been isolated from bovine fetal lung membranes and digestive tract (Smith, 1920, as Mucor rhizopodiformis). Three isolates labelled R. microsporus in Herb. IMI proved to be R. rhizopodiformis, one from phycomycosis in man, S. Africa (RMVM 4, 882), one from lung of pullet, UK (Ainsworth & Austwick, 1955) and one from gastric infection in pig, UK (Gitter & Austwick, 1959). It is experimentally pathogenic to rats, causing phycomycotic pneumonitis (RMVM 9, 1572), to alloxan-diabetic rabbits (RMVM 7, 2628, as R. cohnii and R. chinensis) and to rhesus monkeys when they are treated with prednisolone after infection (RMVM 9, 1573). GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION: Germany, Ghana, India, Italy, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, UK, USA. TRANSMISSION: By air-borne sporangiospores.

scholarly journals A critique of the World Resources Institute's report "Pesticides and the immune system: the public health risks".

1998 ◽  
Vol 106 (2) ◽  
pp. 51-54 ◽  
Author(s):  
J Acquavella ◽  
C Burns ◽  
D Flaherty ◽  
M Holsapple ◽  
I Kimber ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Immune System ◽  
Health Risks ◽  
The Public ◽  
Public Health Risks ◽  
The World

scholarly journals Ethical misconduct by registered physiotherapists in South Africa (2007–2013): A mixed methods approach

2015 ◽  
Vol 71 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Willem A. Hoffmann ◽  
Nico Nortjé
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Content Analysis ◽  
Mixed Methods ◽  
Data Analysis ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Epidemiological Data ◽  
Unethical Conduct ◽  
Mixed Methods Approach ◽  
Ethical Misconduct ◽  
Patient Consent

Background: The role of ethics in a medical context is to protect the interests of patients. Thus,it is critically important to understand the guilty verdicts related to professional standard breaches and ethics misconduct of physiotherapists.Aim: To analyse the case content and penalties of all guilty verdicts related to ethics misconduct against registered physiotherapists in South Africa.Methods: A mixed methods approach was followed consisting of epidemiological data analysis and qualitative content analysis. The data documents were formal annual lists (2007–2013) of guilty verdicts related to ethical misconduct. Quantitative data analysis focused on annual frequencies of guilty verdicts, transgression categories and the imposed penalties. Qualitative data analysis focused on content analysis of the case content for each guilty verdict.Results: Relatively few physiotherapists (0.05%) are annually found guilty of ethical misconduct. The two most frequent penalties were fines of R5000.00 and fines of R8000.00–R10 000.00. The majority of transgressions involved fraudulent conduct (70.3%), followed by performance of procedures without patient consent (10.8%). Fraudulent conduct involved issuing misleading, inaccurate or false medical statements, and false or inaccurate medical aid scheme claims.Conclusion: Unethical conduct by physiotherapists in South Africa occurs rarely. The majority of penalties imposed on sanctioned physiotherapists were monetary penalties.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document