scholarly journals Influenza in the COVID-19 era: principles of modern pharmacotherapy

2021 ◽  
pp. 100-108
Author(s):  
N. B. Lazareva
Keyword(s):  
Generation Time ◽  
Influenza A ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Reproductive Number ◽  
Epidemic Season ◽  
Treatment And Prevention ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Spread Of Infection

Influenza is one of the most common infectious diseases and a significant public health problem. Every year, the influenza virus causes 3–5 million severe cases, millions hospitalizations and approximately 650,000 deaths. According to WHO four new influenza strains are projected to circulate in the 2020–2021 epidemic season. Influenza A and B strains are: A/Guangdong-Maonan/ SWL1536/2019 (H1N1) pdm09, A/Hong Kong/2671/2019 (H3N2), B/Washington/02/2019 (Victoria lineage), B/ Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage). In this context, the problem of prescribing rational antiviral therapy is particularly importance. COVID-19, along with influenza, is a group of respiratory viral infections, but important differences exist in terms of viral agents and the spread of infection. Important differences include the rate of transmission. The average incubation period and generation time (the time between infecting one person and infecting another) for influenza are shorter. COVID-19 may be more severe, causing complications and deaths in 3–4% of cases. The estimated generation time for COVID 19 is 5-6 days, while for influenza it is 3 days. According to the latest data, the reproductive number, i.e., the number of people who can be infected by one patient, is in the range of 2 to 2.5 in COVID 19, which is higher than in influenza. Only a laboratory test can accurately identify the type of pathogen and distinguish it from influenza and other respiratory viruses. Neuraminidase inhibitors are currently first-line drugs recommended by WHO for the treatment and prevention of influenza.

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.

Female sexual dysfunction: a problem hidden in the shadows

2021 ◽  
Vol 27 ◽  
Author(s):  
Konstantinos P. Imprialos ◽  
Konstantinos Koutsampasopoulos ◽  
Aleksandra Katsimardou ◽  
Sofia Bouloukou ◽  
Iakovos Theodoulidis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Female Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Management Options ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Cv Disease

Background: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has mainly been underdiagnosed and undertreated due to the lack of concrete definitions, validated assessment methods, and efficient treatments. However, during the last few decades, there has been significant progress in the clinical management and research of FSD. Objective: The purpose of this review is to describe the pathophysiology of FSD, report the prevalence of the disease in the setting of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and disease, and review current and under investigation treatment options. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify studies examining the association of FSD with CV risk factors and/or disease and studies reporting appropriate management options. Results: The prevalence of FSD is increased in the general population (approximately 40%) and is significantly higher in patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. In patients with overt CV disease, FSD is even more prevalent (up to 90%). The cause of FSD is multifactorial and includes various vascular, hormonal, interpersonal, and psychological factors, which are all intertwined. Several treatment options exist that are efficient in improving female sexual function, while a cluster of other alternatives has been shown to offer benefits. Conclusion: FSD is a significant public health problem with a great impact on the patients’ quality of life. In the setting of increased CV burden, FSD is even more prevalent. Increased awareness is needed for the physician to establish a trustful environment with the patient, discuss such issues, and offer suitable management options.

scholarly journals Spatial distribution of schistosomiasis and geohelminthiasis cases in the rural areas of Pernambuco, Brazil

2012 ◽  
Vol 45 (5) ◽  
pp. 633-638 ◽  
Author(s):  
Verônica Santos Barbosa ◽  
Karina Conceição Araújo ◽  
Onicio Batista Leal Neto ◽  
Constança Simões Barbosa
Keyword(s):  
Spatial Distribution ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Kernel Estimator ◽  
Distribution Patterns ◽  
Number Of Children ◽  
Density Maps ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health

INTRODUCTION: The prevalence and intensity of geohelminth infections and schistosomiasis remain high in the rural areas of Zona da Mata, Pernambuco (ZMP), Brazil, where these parasites still represent a significant public health problem. The present study aimed to spatially assess the occurrences of schistosomiasis and geohelminthiasis in the ZMP. METHODS: The ZMP has a population of 1,132,544 inhabitants, formed by 43 municipalities. An ecological study was conducted, using secondary data relating to positive human cases and parasite loads of schistosomiasis and positive human cases of geohelminthiasis that were worked up in Excel 2007. We used the coordinates of the municipal headquarters to represent the cities which served as the unit of analysis of this study. The Kernel estimator was used to spatially analyze the data and identify distribution patterns and case densities, with analysis done in ArcGIS software. RESULTS: Spatial analysis from the Kernel intensity estimator made it possible to construct density maps showing that the northern ZMP was the region with the greatest number of children infected with parasites and the populations most intensely infected by Schistosoma mansoni. In relation to geohelminths, there was higher spatial distribution of cases of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura in the southern ZMP, and greater occurrence of hookworms in the northern/central ZMP. CONCLUSIONS: Despite several surveys and studies showing occurrences of schistosomiasis and geohelminthiasis in the ZMP, no preventive measures that are known to have been effective in decreasing these health hazards have yet been implemented in the endemic area.

scholarly journals DHEA as a Biomarker of Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Frédéric Dutheil ◽  
Sarah de Saint Vincent ◽  
Bruno Pereira ◽  
Jeannot Schmidt ◽  
Farès Moustafa ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Mental Stress ◽  
Acute Stress ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Cochrane Library ◽  
Main Peak ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Two Measures

Background: Psychosocial stress is a significant public health problem inducing consequences for quality of life. Results about the use of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as a biomarker of acute stress are conflicting. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to demonstrate that DHEA levels could be a biomarker of stress.Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and ScienceDirect databases were searched on March 19, 2021 using the keywords “acute stress” AND “DHEA” OR “Dehydroepiandrosterone.” Articles needed to describe our primary outcome, i.e., induction of acute stress and at least two measures of DHEA.Results: We included 14 studies, with a total of 631 participants, in our meta-analysis. The DHEA levels increased overtime after acute stress [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.56, 95%CI = 1.13–1.99]. Stratification by time showed a main peak at the end of stress (SMD = 2.43, 95%CI = 1.59–3.27), followed by a progressive decrease (coefficient = −0.11, 95%CI = −0.19 to −0.17, p = 0.020). There was no significant change 1 h after the end of acute stress. Metaregressions showed an impact of mental stress (SMD = 2.04, 95%CI = 1.43–2.65), sex (SMD = 0.02, 95%CI = 0.00–0.04), age (SMD = −0.12, 95%CI = −0.2 to −0.05), and obesity (SMD = 0.31, 95%CI = −0.00 to 0.63). There was no difference whatever the type of fluid (blood or saliva) and the measurement technique used.Conclusions: DHEA is a biomarker of acute stress, with a short-term increase (1 h). DHEA increases following acute mental stress, whatever the type and duration of mental stress. Women, young people, and obese individuals had a higher response. Blood and saliva measures were comparable.

Green tea polyphenols prevent lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory liver injury in mice by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (7) ◽  
pp. 3898-3908 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dongxu Wang ◽  
Man Zhang ◽  
Taotao Wang ◽  
Min Cai ◽  
Frank Qian ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Liver Injury ◽  
Green Tea ◽  
Liver Diseases ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Green Tea Polyphenols ◽  
Inflammasome Activation ◽  
Nlrp3 Inflammasome Activation ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health

Inflammatory liver diseases present a significant public health problem.

Moped Collisions among Patients with Revoked Drivers’ Licenses are a Significant Public Health Problem: A Retrospective Cohort Study

2014 ◽  
Vol 80 (8) ◽  
pp. 792-795 ◽  
Author(s):  
Benjamin M. Braun ◽  
Lynn M. Gries ◽  
Amy N. Hildreth ◽  
Anna N. Miller
Keyword(s):  
Motor Vehicle ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
High Risk Behavior ◽  
Driving While Intoxicated ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
History Of ◽  
Mode Of Transportation ◽  
Level I

Many states do not require a license to operate a moped, defined as a motor vehicle with less than 50-cc engine displacement. These vehicles may therefore serve as a mode of transportation for those who are driving without a license and who may have a history of prior high-risk behavior. We hypothesized that those involved in moped collisions were more likely to have previous convictions for driving while intoxicated (DWI) and other non-DWI offenses than those on conventional motorcycles. At a Level I trauma center, we queried the trauma registry from January 2005 to October 2010 for admissions after motorcycle or moped collisions. Classification of mechanism of injury was verified through chart review. Corrections databases from our state were then reviewed for previous convictions for DWI and other offenses. One thousand seventy-three patients over the study period were involved in motorcycle or moped collisions; 94 were from another state. Of the patients identified from our state, 249 had moped collisions and 730 had motorcycle collisions. Forty-nine per cent (121) of moped drivers had a history of DWI versus only 8 per cent (56) of motorcycle drivers ( P ≤ 0.05). Sixty-four per cent (161) of moped drivers were previously convicted of a crime versus 20 per cent (146) of those on motorcycles ( P ≤ 0.05). Moped drivers were significantly more likely to have a prior conviction of DWI as well as prior convictions of other crimes, establishing a pattern of disregard for the law. The use of these vehicles without a license likely presents a risk to public safety. Legislation to require licensing before moped operation should be considered.

scholarly journals Sero-evaluation of Immune Responses to Vibrio cholerae in a Postelimination Setting

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (5) ◽  
Author(s):  
Tai The Diep ◽  
Owen Jensen ◽  
Nguyen Van Thuong ◽  
Nguyen Thi Ngoc Nhi ◽  
Nguyen Ngoc Anh Thu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Immune Responses ◽  
Specific Antibody ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Antibody Testing ◽  
Southern Vietnam ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Clinical Surveillance ◽  
Blood Spot

Abstract Cholera remains a significant public health problem worldwide. In settings of declining incidence, serosurveillance may be used to augment clinical surveillance. We utilized dried blood spot sampling and cholera-specific antibody testing to examine the serologic profiles of vaccinated and unvaccinated children in southern Vietnam, where cholera was recently eliminated.

Contrasting Crash- and Non-Crash-Involved Riders: Analysis of Data from the Motorcycle Crash Causation Study

2019 ◽  
Vol 2673 (7) ◽  
pp. 122-131 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hitesh Chawla ◽  
Ilker Karaca ◽  
Peter T. Savolainen
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
The United States ◽  
Crash Risk ◽  
Volume Data ◽  
Logistic Regression Models ◽  
Significant Public Health Problem ◽  
Significant Public Health ◽  
Paired Control ◽  
Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycle crashes and fatalities remain a significant public health problem as fatality rates have increased substantially as compared to other vehicle types in the United States. Analysis of causal factors for motorcycle crashes is often challenging given a lack of reliable traffic volume data and the fact that such crashes comprise a relatively small portion of all traffic crashes. Given these limitations, on-scene crash investigations represent an ideal setting through which to investigate the precipitating factors for motorcycle-involved crashes. This study examines motorcycle crash risk factors by employing data recently made available from the Federal Highway Administration Motorcycle Crash Causation Study (MCCS). The MCCS represents a comprehensive investigative effort to determine the causes of motorcycle crashes and involved the collection of in-depth data from 351 crashes, as well as the collection of comparison data from 702 paired control observations in Orange County, California. This dataset provides a unique opportunity to understand how the risk of crash involvement varies across different segments of the riding population. Logistic regression models are estimated to identify the rider and vehicle attributes associated with motorcycle crashes. The results of the study suggest that motorcycle crash risks are related to rider age, physical status, and educational attainment. In addition to such factors outside of the rider’s control, several modifiable risk factors, which arguably affect the riders’ proclivity to take risks, were also found to be significantly associated with motorcycle crash risk, including motorcycle type, helmet coverage, motorcycle ownership, speed, trip destination, and traffic violation history.

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