scholarly journals Case Report: Recent Case Reports of Levant Blunt-Nosed Viper Macrovipera lebetina obtusa Snakebites in Iran

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Seyed Mahdi Kazemi ◽  
Ahmed Al-Sabi ◽  
Chengbo Long ◽  
Mahmoud I. Shoulkamy ◽  
Tarek Mohamed Abd El-Aziz
Keyword(s):  
Case Reports ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Systemic Hemodynamic ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Low Blood Pressure ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Macrovipera Lebetina Obtusa

Envenomation and death resulting from snakebites represent a significant public health problem worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The WHO has defined snakebite as a neglected tropical health concern. Bites from Macrovipera lebetina obtusa usually cause life-threatening systemic hemodynamic disturbances, reduced functionality of the kidneys, and other serious symptoms, including hypotension shock, edema, and tissue necrosis, at the bite site. Herein, we highlight five cases of M. l. obtusa envenomation that presented with wide-ranging manifestations. Many recovered cases were left with long-term musculoskeletal disabilities. In a particular case, a 15-year-old male patient was envenomed in his palm by an 80-cm M. l. obtusa. Within 12 hours, swelling extended to near the shoulder. Fasciotomy was performed on the forearm and part of the upper arm of this patient. Symptoms of severe localized pain and swelling, dizziness, weakness, low blood pressure, and itching around the bite area were documented. The patient remained in the hospital for 13 days.

scholarly journals HIV-1 Impact on Malaria Transmission: A Complex and Relevant Global Health Concern

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashleigh Roberds ◽  
Emily Ferraro ◽  
Shirley Luckhart ◽  
V. Ann Stewart
Keyword(s):  
Malaria Transmission ◽  
Disease Transmission ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Unique Role ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
The Tropics ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Hiv 1

Malaria/HIV-1 co-infection has become a significant public health problem in the tropics where there is geographical overlap of the two diseases. It is well described that co-infection impacts clinical progression of both diseases; however, less is known about the impact of co-infection on disease transmission. Malaria transmission is dependent upon multiple critical factors, one of which is the presence and viability of the sexual-stage gametocyte. In this review, we summarize evidence surrounding gametocyte production in Plasmodium falciparum and the development factors and the consequential impact that HIV-1 has on malaria parasite transmission. Epidemiological and clinical evidence surrounding anemia, immune dysregulation, and chemotherapy as it pertains to co-infection and gametocyte transmission are reviewed. We discuss significant gaps in understanding that are often due to the biological complexities of both diseases as well as the lack of entomological data necessary to define transmission success. In particular, we highlight special epidemiological populations, such as co-infected asymptomatic gametocyte carriers, and the unique role these populations have in a future focused on malaria elimination and eradication.

scholarly journals Solar and Climate Effects Explain the Wide Variation in Legionellosis Incidence Rates in the United States

2019 ◽  
Vol 85 (22) ◽  
Author(s):  
Xiang Y. Han
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
The United States ◽  
Incidence Rates ◽  
Sunshine Hours ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Solar Uv ◽  
Environmental Bacteria

ABSTRACTLegionellosis, an infection caused by the environmental bacteriaLegionellaspp., has become a significant public health problem in the United States in recent years; however, among the states, the incidence rates vary widely without a clear explanation. This study examined environmental effects on the 2014-to-2016 average annual legionellosis incidence rates in the U.S. states through correlative analyses with long-term precipitation, temperature, solar UV radiation, and sunshine hours. The continental states west of ∼95°W showed low incidence rates of 0.51 to 1.20 cases per 100,000 population, which corresponded to low precipitation, below 750 mm annually. For the eastern states, where precipitation was higher, solar effects were prominent and mixed, leading to wide incidence variation. Robust regressions suggested a dividing line at 40°N: north of this line, rising temperature, mainly from solar heat, raised legionellosis incidence to a peak of 4.25/100,000 in Ohio; south of the line, intensifying sunlight in terms of high UV indices and long sunshine hours prevailed to limit incidence gradually to 0.99/100,000 in Louisiana. On or near the 40°N line were 15 eastern states that had leading legionellosis incidence rates of >2.0/100,000. These states all showed modest environmental parameters. In contrast, the frigid climate in Alaska and the strong year-round solar UV in Hawaii explained the lowest U.S. incidences, 0.14/100,000 and 0.47/100,000, respectively, in these states. The findings of solar and climate effects explain the wide variation of legionellosis incidence rates in the United States and may offer insights into the potential exposure to and prevention of infection.IMPORTANCELegionellosis, caused by the environmental bacteriaLegionellaspp., has become a significant public health problem in the United States in recent years, with ∼6,000 cases annually. The present study showed, through a series of correlative analyses with long-term precipitation, temperature, solar UV radiation, and sunshine hours, that these environmental conditions strongly influence the legionellosis incidence rates across the United States in mixed and dynamic fashions. The incidence rates varied remarkably by region, with the highest in Ohio and New York and the lowest in Alaska. A precipitation threshold above 750 mm was required for elevated legionellosis activity. Regression models and dividing lines between regions were established to show the promotive effect of temperature, as well as the inhibitive effects of solar UV and sunshine hours. These findings explain the wide variation of legionellosis incidence rates in the United States. They may also offer insights into potential exposure to and prevention of infection.

scholarly journals Baclofen in the short-term maintenance treatment of benzodiazepine dependence

2014 ◽  
Vol 05 (S 01) ◽  
pp. S053-S054 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lekhansh Shukla ◽  
Arun Kandasamy ◽  
Muralidharan Kesavan ◽  
Vivek Benegal
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Gaba Receptor ◽  
Maintenance Treatment ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Benzodiazepine Dependence ◽  
Term Maintenance

ABSTRACTBenzodiazepine (BZD) dependence is a significant public health problem. Apart from the long-term tapering doses of BZD, no others drugs are available for the maintenance treatment of BZD dependence. Baclofen has been used in alcohol and other drug dependence as long-term anti-craving agent. Since alcohol and BZD act through the GABA receptor, we attempted to study the effect of Baclofen as maintenance treatment in a series of five cases with BZD dependence.

scholarly journals Disseminated tuberculosis in a Nigerian child: making a case for active contact tracing

2017 ◽  
Vol 4 (6) ◽  
pp. 2193
Author(s):  
Echey Ijezie ◽  
Ruth Ekomobong Essien ◽  
Augustina Elochukwu Ijezie
Keyword(s):  
Significant Risk ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Contact Tracing ◽  
Sputum Smear ◽  
Resource Limited ◽  
Nigerian Child ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Childhood Tb ◽  
Life Threatening

Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant public health problem globally, especially in developing countries. Every day, up to 200 children (aged less than 15 years) lose their lives to tuberculosis – a preventable and curable disease. Disseminated TB is a potentially life-threatening form of TB, and it is common in infants and children. Contact tracing and the examination of household contacts, particularly of known sputum smear-positive cases, is highly effective in tuberculosis control. Unfortunately, in many high-burden countries, little effort is directed towards identifying contacts of newly diagnosed TB patients. Indeed, TB contact investigations are rarely and inconsistently carried out in resource-limited settings. This failure places children at significant risk. A case of disseminated TB in a child is herein reported, aiming to highlight the pertinent aspects of the history, clinical presentation and outcome, which ultimately underscore the need for active contact tracing. Contact tracing must be strongly advocated for, as this will go a very long way in reducing the burden of childhood TB. 

scholarly journals Seroprevalence of Cysticercosis in Children and Young Adults Living in a Helminth Endemic Community in Leyte, the Philippines

2010 ◽  
Vol 2010 ◽  
pp. 1-6 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jin-Mei Xu ◽  
Luz P. Acosta ◽  
Min Hou ◽  
Daria L. Manalo ◽  
Mario Jiz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Taenia Solium ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
The Philippines ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Public Health Concern ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Children And Young Adults

Cysticercosis is a significant public health problem in countries where pigs are raised for consumption and remains an important cause of neurological disease worldwide. The Philippines is considered an endemic area for cysticercosis because cases in both humans and pigs have been reported; however, epidemiologic information stays limited. We conducted a pilot survey of the seroprevalence of human cysticercosis in a village in Leyte, the Philippines, by measuring antibody specific forTaenia soliumcyst-fluid antigen. There were 497 subjects aged 7–30 years in our study and most subjects were infected with one or more helminths. The overall cysticercosis seroprevalence in this population was 24.6% (95% CI: 20.82% ~ 28.58%) with no significant difference based on age, sex, or other helminth coinfection status. Although the sample may not be representative of the whole community, the findings suggest that cysticercosis is a significant, but underrecognized public health concern in the Philippines.

scholarly journals The Mechanics of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Review of What We Know and What We Need to Know for Reducing Its Societal Burden

2014 ◽  
Vol 136 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
David F. Meaney ◽  
Barclay Morrison ◽  
Cameron Dale Bass
Keyword(s):  
Traumatic Brain Injury ◽  
Brain Injury ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Clear Understanding ◽  
Societal Burden ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Severe Tbi ◽  
Made In

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health problem, on pace to become the third leading cause of death worldwide by 2020. Moreover, emerging evidence linking repeated mild traumatic brain injury to long-term neurodegenerative disorders points out that TBI can be both an acute disorder and a chronic disease. We are at an important transition point in our understanding of TBI, as past work has generated significant advances in better protecting us against some forms of moderate and severe TBI. However, we still lack a clear understanding of how to study milder forms of injury, such as concussion, or new forms of TBI that can occur from primary blast loading. In this review, we highlight the major advances made in understanding the biomechanical basis of TBI. We point out opportunities to generate significant new advances in our understanding of TBI biomechanics, especially as it appears across the molecular, cellular, and whole organ scale.

scholarly journals Recycled aluminium cooking pots: a growing public health concern in poorly resourced countries

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Angela Mathee ◽  
Renée Street
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Health Impacts ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Public Health Concern ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Human Health Impacts ◽  
Innovative Solutions ◽  
Significant Public Health

Abstract Lead exposure remains a significant public health problem, particularly in the informal sector. Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal pots is a growing concern in poorly resourced countries. Owing to the relatively light weight and low cost of the artisanal pots, as well as good conductivity which equates to lower usage of wood fuel, the pots are widely used. The aim of this article is to describe current insights and emerging evidence of health risks associated with artisanal pot making and usage. This thriving industry, particularly in poorly resourced communities, has multifaceted occupational, environmental and human health impacts. Given the complexity, innovative solutions need to be prioritized, evaluated and scaled up in relevant settings.

scholarly journals A Fatal and Rare Case of Hydatid Cyst in the Pouch of Douglas

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ritu Asnani ◽  
Sunil Kumar Yeshvanth ◽  
Lancelot Lobo ◽  
Shipra Sonkusare
Keyword(s):  
Hydatid Cyst ◽  
Rare Case ◽  
Frozen Section ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Zoonotic Infection ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Middle Income Countries ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Pouch Of Douglas

Abstract Hydatid cyst is a zoonotic infection and a significant public health problem in low- and middle-income countries. A 79-year-old female patient was presented to the gynecology outpatient department with complaints of pain in the abdomen and difficulty in micturition, with a mass palpable per speculum. The ultrasound was suggestive of an ovarian cystadenocarcinoma, whereas computed tomography of the abdomen favored hydatid cyst with adnexal neoplasm as a differential diagnosis. Considering the contradictory findings, a frozen section was sent to confirm the diagnosis, which showed hooklets of Echinococcus granulosus/hydatid cyst under the microscope. This was a rare case of pelvic hydatid cyst mimicking ovarian malignancy and was associated with a less-preferred mode of investigation (frozen section). This article focuses on how a frozen section, despite its limitations and being expensive, can still be considered for accurate patient management.

Possible role of Unani Pharmacology in COVID-19 – a narrative review

2020 ◽  
Vol 0 (0) ◽  
Author(s):  
Md Anzar Alam ◽  
Mohd Abdul Gani ◽  
G. Shama ◽  
Ghulamuddin Sofi ◽  
Mohd Aleemuddin Quamri
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Manifestations ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
World Health ◽  
Santalum Album ◽  
Boswellia Serrata ◽  
Unani Medicine ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Novel Coronavirus ◽  
Health Organization

AbstractAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), viral diseases continue to rise, and pose a significant public health problem. Novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. The pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of COVID-19 is close to Amraz-e-Wabai (epidemic diseases) which was described by Hippocrates, Galen, Aristotle, Razes, Haly Abbas, Avicenna, Jurjani etc. Presently, there is no specific or challenging treatment available for COVID-19. Renowned Unani Scholars recommended during epidemic situation to stay at home, and fumigate the shelters with aromatics herbs like Ood kham (Aquilaria agallocha Roxb.), Kundur (Boswellia serrata Roxb), Kafoor (Cinnamomum camphora L.), Sandal (Santalum album L), Hing (Ferula foetida L.) etc. Use of specific Unani formulations are claimed effective for the management of such epidemic or pandemic situation like antidotes (Tiryaqe Wabai, Tiryaqe Arba, Tiryaqe Azam, Gile Armani), Herbal Decoction (Joshandah), along with Sharbate Khaksi, Habbe Bukhar, Sharbate Zanjabeel, Khamira Marwareed, Jawarish Jalinus, and Sirka (vinegar). Such drugs are claimed for use as antioxidant, immunomodulatory, cardiotonic, and general tonic actions. The study enumerates the literature regarding management of epidemics in Unani medicine and attempts to look the same in the perspective of COVID-19 prevention and management.

scholarly journals Self-harm among in-school and street-connected adolescents in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey in the Greater Accra region

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. e041609
Author(s):  
Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie ◽  
Farag Shuweihdi ◽  
Mitch Waterman ◽  
Allan House
Keyword(s):  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Self Injury ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Treatment Measures ◽  
Self Harm ◽  
Greater Accra Region

ObjectivesTo identify the prevalence, methods, associations and reported reasons for self-harm among in-school and street-connected adolescents in Ghana.DesignA cross-sectional survey. We applied multi-level regression models and model-based cluster analysis to the data.SettingThree contexts in the Greater Accra region were used: second cycle schools, facilities of charity organisations and street census enumeration areas (sleeping places of street-connected adolescents, street corners, quiet spots of restaurants, markets, train and bus stations, and lorry and car parks).ParticipantsA regionally representative sample of 2107 (1723 in-school and 384 street-connected) adolescents aged 13–21 years.Outcome measuresParticipants responded to a structured self-report anonymous questionnaire describing their experience of self-harm and eliciting demographic information and social and personal adversities.ResultsThe lifetime prevalence of self-harm was 20.2% (95% CI 19.0% to 22.0%), 12-month prevalence was 16.6% (95% CI 15.0% to 18.0%) and 1-month prevalence was 3.1% (95% CI 2.0% to 4.0%). Self-injury alone accounted for 54.5% episodes and self-poisoning alone for 16.2% episodes, with more than one method used in 26% of episodes. Self-cutting (38.7%) was the most common form of self-injury, whereas alcohol (39.2%) and medications (27.7%) were the most commonly reported means of self-poisoning. The factors associated with self-harm were interpersonal: conflict with parents (adjusted OR (aOR)=1.87, 95% CI 1.24 to 2.81), physical abuse victimisation (aOR=1.69, 95% CI 1.16 to 2.47), difficulty in making and keeping friends (aOR=1.24, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.80), sexual abuse victimisation (aOR=1.21, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.87) and conflict between parents (aOR=1.07, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.56).ConclusionsSelf-harm is a significant public health problem among in-school and street-connected adolescents in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Its origins are very largely in social and familial adversity, and therefore prevention and treatment measures need to be focused in these areas.

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