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Fulltext Correlation between Soil Transmitted Helminth Infection and Eosinophil Levels among Primary School Children in Medan

Darlan DM, Tala ZZ, Amanta C, Warli SM, Arrasyid NK

Open Access Maced J Med Sci, 2017 Apr 15;5(2):142-146.
PMID: 28507618 DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2017.014

BACKGROUND: Soil Transmitted Helminth infection is one of most prevalent health problems worldwide, especially in environments with poor sanitation. Based on World Health Organisation (WHO) data, more than 2 billion people, or 24% of the world's population, are infected with intestinal parasite. The highest prevalence is located in areas of poor sanitation and unsafe water supplies. In Indonesia, the prevalence of parasite infections is 15% of the entire population.
AIM: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between Soil Transmitted Helminth infection on levels of eosinophils among primary school children. In addition, this study also aimed to determine the prevalence of different types of worm infections and the levels of eosinophils in children infected with worms.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study was analytic observational using a cross-sectional method. The sampling technique was consecutive and in total 132 samples was obtained. The study involved primary school children in Amplas Medan and Hamparan Perak, Deli Serdang through May to October 2016. Univariate analysis was performed to determine STH infection prevalence and bivariate analysis was used to find the correlation between STH infection and eosinophil levels through a Chi square (χ2) test.
RESULTS: The results showed that the prevalence of Soil Transmitted Helminth was 7.6%. The most common types of STH infection were 3.8% with Trichuris trichiura and 3% with Ascaris lumbricoides. A significant correlation was found between Parasite infection and eosinophil levels (Contingency Coefficient (C) = 0.2, χ2 = 5.3, p = 0.021) and the risk of STH infection that caused eosinophilia or increased eosinophil levels in the children with a Prevalence Ratio (PR) of 1.56 (Confidence Interval (CI) 95%: 1.10-2.22).
CONCLUSION: It is recommended that schools at similar risk improve and maintain hygiene and healthy behaviour in the school environment and that parents and teachers pay greater attention to the cleanliness of their children.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Fulltext The effect of the SIMS Programme versus existing preschool oral healthcare programme on oral hygiene level of preschool children: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

Yusof ZYM, Anwar NH, Mohd Nor NA, Nor MM, Mustafa SE

Trials, 2021 Feb 22;22(1):156.
PMID: 33618735 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05111-0

BACKGROUND: Despite the implementation of the preschool oral healthcare programme (POHP) for 5-6-year-old children over the past 3 decades in Malaysia, dental plaque and caries levels in this age group remain high. Among the child-level attributable factors are unhealthy self-care behaviours (poor oral hygiene and high sugary diet). In order to improve the children's oral health, an improved programme called the 'Senyuman Indah Milik Semua' Programme (SIMSP) or 'Beautiful Smile for All' programme is introduced. In this programme, a triad of dental hygienist-teacher-parent works together to improve children's oral hygiene levels compared with the existing POHP that involves dental hygienists only. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of the SIMSP versus the existing POHP on oral hygiene levels of 5-6-year-old children in the Kampar district, Perak state, Malaysia.
METHODS: This study is a pragmatic, cluster-randomised, parallel-group, matched pair, controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment. Randomisation is performed using a computer-generated table with a 1:1 allocation comparing the SIMSP and the POHP involving 28 preschools in the Kampar district, Perak, Malaysia. The intervention consists of preschool visits by a group of dental therapists, in-class oral health lessons and daily toothbrushing conducted by class teacher, child home toothbrushing supervised by parents, and infographic oral health messages to parents. The control consists of the existing POHP that involves preschool visits by a group of dental therapists only. The trial lasts for 6 months. Primary outcome variable is the mean plaque score change after 6 months. To determine the feasibility of the SIMSP, a process evaluation will be conducted using the perspectives of dental therapists, teachers, and parents on the appropriateness, effectiveness, facilitators, and barriers to the SIMSP implementation as well as an audit trail to assess the trial intervention.
DISCUSSION: Cluster randomisation may lead to a random effect and cluster selection bias. These factors will be accounted for when analysing the data and interpreting the outcomes. The effectiveness of the SIMSP will be evaluated by comparing the results with those of the POHP.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04339647 . Registered on 5 April 2020 - Retrospectively registered.

Matched MeSH terms: Oral Hygiene
Attitudes towards diagnostic tests and therapies for dry eye disease

Graham JE, McGilligan VE, Berrar D, Leccisotti A, Moore JE, Bron AJ, et al.

Ophthalmic Res, 2010;43(1):11-7.
PMID: 19829007 DOI: 10.1159/000246573

AIM: The purpose of this study was to survey the attitudes of optometrists and ophthalmologists, located in a number of different countries, towards diagnostic tests and therapies for dry eye disease.
METHODS: A web-based questionnaire was used to survey attitudes using forced-choice questions and Likert scales.
RESULTS: Sixty-one respondents (23 ophthalmologists and 38 optometrists) reported a wide range of patient dry eye symptoms. A large variation in use of diagnostic tests was noted. Patient symptoms and fluorescein staining were reported to be significantly more valuable and more frequently performed than any other test. Artificial tear supplements and improved lid hygiene were the preferred therapeutic options selected by the entire group. The results demonstrated a wide variation in attitudes in relation to satisfaction with the range of available diagnostic and therapeutic options.
CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that the interest for the issue of dry eye is relatively limited amongst eye professionals, as demonstrated by the poor participation in the questionnaire.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Fulltext Sociodemographic determinants of good hygience practices among the indigenous primary caregivers of under three children in Malaysia

Liyanatul Najwa Zakaria, Halimatus Sakdiah Minhat

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(1):215-220.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Poor hygiene practice is an important factor that lead to morbidity and mortality among young chil- dren which are common among the indigenous population due to the lack of access to health services and their unique beliefs and practices. This study aimed to identify the socio-demographic determinants of hygiene practices among the indigenous (known as Orang Asli in Malaysia) primary caregivers of children under the age of three in Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 166 primary caregivers of Orang Asli children of below three years old in Kuala Langat District. Data was collected using a validated and pre-tested questionnaire via face-to-face interviews with individual respondents. The questionnaire consisted of two main sections: sociodemo- graphics and hygiene practice. Results: A majority of the Orang Asli primary caregivers had good hygiene practices (78.9%). The number of children under five years old living at home was significantly associated with hygiene prac- tice and it was the only significant determinant or predictor of good hygiene practice among the Orang Asli primary caregivers. Conclusion: The number of children under five years old living at home is an important factor to ensure good hygiene practices among the primary caregivers of Orang Asli children. This factor need to be taken into con- sideration in monitoring children health status by the health staff by emphasizing the importance of hygiene practice in the prevention of infectious diseases and malnutrition among Orang Asli children.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Fulltext CRP and IL-6 levels of gingival crevicular fluid in stroke survivors: a pilot study

Normaliza Ab. Malik, Sa’ari Mohamad Yatim, Lijian Jin, Colman McGrath

Journal of Clinical and Health Sciences, 2019;4(1):30-38.
MyJurnal

The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and
interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) among stroke survivors in relation to
the oral hygiene status and stroke characteristics. Methods: A multi-centre cross-sectional
study was conducted among hospitalised stroke survivors. Socio-demographic data were
collected. Oral clinical assessment (dental plaque scores) and functional dependency levels
scores were carried out. Gingival Crevicular Fluids were collected, using absorbent papers
and analysed using ELISA kit. Descriptive statistic and correlation analyses were performed
using proportion and Spearmen correlation coefficient test. Results: A total of 53 patients were
recruited from five public hospitals. There was a significant correlation between CRP and IL-6
levels of GCF (P=0.021, r=0.21). A significant correlation was also observed between CRP
levels in GCF with dental plaque scores and functional dependency levels. There was no
statistically significant correlation found between IL-6 levels in GCF with dental plaque scores
and functional dependency levels. Dental plaque scores were associated with high levels of
CRP in GCF (P=0.014), and swallowing problem was associated with high levels of IL-6 in
GCF (P=0.002). Conclusions: IL-6 levels in GCF were correlated with the levels of CRP in
GCF. High CRP and IL-6 levels in GCF were significantly associated with dental plaque scores
and swallowing condition (presence of dysphagia), respectively. Thus, this pilot study suggests
that CRP level in the oral cavity respond to the oral health conditions and may not be a
predictor factor of stroke outcomes. Further studies are warranted to compare the level of
inflammatory biomarkers from the oral cavity and serum in relation to the stroke conditions and
outcomes.

Matched MeSH terms: Oral Hygiene
Assessment on Hand Hygiene Knowledge and Practices Among Pre-school Children in Klang Valley

Tengku Jamaluddin TZM, Mohamed NA, Mohd Rani MD, Ismail Z, Ramli S, Faroque H, et al.

Glob Pediatr Health, 2020;7:2333794X20976369.
PMID: 33335950 DOI: 10.1177/2333794X20976369

Background. Pre-school children are at a higher risk to acquire infectious diseases such as hand, foot and mouth disease due to their immature immune system. Good hand hygiene prevents transmission of infectious diseases. This study aimed to determine the knowledge and practices of hand hygiene among pre-schoolers. Methods. In this prospective, multi-center study, the pre-schools were selected according to the selection criteria. A questionnaire consisting of socio-demographics, knowledge and practices of hand hygiene were administered via face-to-face interview during the pre- and post-intervention period. A total of 435 pre-schoolers aged 5 and 6 years old from 2 pre-schools within Klang Valley, School P (test group) and School C (control group) were involved in this study. The test group was provided with comprehensive hand hygiene education including video on proper handwashing technique during the 2 months intervention period, whereas the control group did not receive any form of intervention. The data were statistically analyzed using descriptive analysis and independent t-test. Results. Majority of pre-schoolers gained knowledge of handwashing from their parents. However, only 63% demonstrated good handwashing technique. Test group were significantly better (P

Matched MeSH terms: Hand Hygiene
Fulltext Seroprevalence of enterically transmitted Hepatitis in North West India

Rekha Bachhiwal, Rajni Sharma, Pooja Gupta, Jyotsna Shukla

Journal of Clinical and Health Sciences, 2016;1:29-32.

To ascertain the seroprevalence of enterically transmitted Hepatitis A (HAV) and Hepatitis E (HEV) in cases with acute/subacute hepatitis attending a tertiary care hospital in North West India. Methods: A total of 2936 cases were examined for the presence of current infection with HAV and HEV, determined by demonstration of HAV-IgM and HEV-IgM antibodies using ELISA. Results: Overall seroprevalence for enterically transmitted hepatitis was found to be 24.89%. HAV IgM was present in 7.35% and HEV IgM was present in 17.54% of total cases. HAV infection was predominantly found in pediatric age group while HEV infection was mostly seen among adults. Male preponderance was noted. Enteric hepatitis cases occurred throughout the year. No definitive seasonal pattern was observed. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated high seropositivity of enterically transmitted hepatitis indicating the need for improvement in personal and public hygiene, and development of HEV vaccine

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Fulltext Colonization of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) among Medical Students in Tertiary Institution in Central Malaysia

Rampal S, Zainuddin NH, Elias NA, Tengku Jamaluddin TZM, Maniam S, Teh SW, et al.

Antibiotics (Basel), 2020 Jul 06;9(7).
PMID: 32640588 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9070382

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA infection is virulent and presents with a broad spectrum of severity. Limited regional reports that specifically outlined the potential risk of medical students being part of the dissemination of MRSA in healthcare settings were noted. This study aims to assess the prevalence and contributory factors of colonization of MRSA on neckties, headscarves, and ID badges among medical students in a local medical university in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 256 medical students. A validated questionnaire was used to collect the data, and sample swabs were collected between July and August 2013 by swabbing neckties, headscarves, or identification badges. The swabs were then streaked onto mannitol salt agar (MSA) and incubated at 37 °C overnight. Out of 433 samples taken, 40 swabs (9.24%) were positive for Staphylococcus aureus. Out of the 40 swabs, five (12.5%) isolates were MRSA (one culture was isolated from the headscarf of a preclinical student, one culture was isolated from the necktie of clinical students, while the remaining three were isolated from identification badges of clinical students. There was no significant association between age, gender, ethnicity, and phase of medical students with the colonization of MRSA (p > 0.05). There was a significant association between knowledge score on hand hygiene practice and phase of medical students. MRSA colonies were present on neckties, headscarves, and identification badges of medical students of all phases. The findings from this study suggest the need for improvement of hand hygiene knowledge and discontinuity of mandatory use of physical ID badges and neckties among medical students.

Matched MeSH terms: Hand Hygiene
Fulltext Prevalence of soil transmitted helminths among school children in Northern Sabah

Fredie Robinson, Jecelyn John, Tin Sabai Aung, Swe, Shamsul Bahari, David Matanjun

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):26-26.
MyJurnal

Introduction: World Health Organization in 2019 reported that about 1.5 billion people are infected with soil-trans-mitted helminths (STH) worldwide. Infected children with STH might manifest signs of anaemia and impaired nutri-tionally or physically. This study aimed to look at the prevalence of STH in the area of North Sabah among rural pri-mary schools and examine the associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four selected primary school in the district of Kudat of Sabah from 2014 to 2015. Tools used for the study were questionnaire and stool sampling. Questionnaire focused data on sociodemographic, hygiene and use of anti-helminths drugs. Stool samples collected were sent for microscopic examination for presence of STH ova. Written consents were obtained from parents/guardians. Chi-square was used to examine the association of having STH and factors on utilities fa-cilities, hygiene and anti-helminths drug. SPSS version 23 was used for statistical analysis. Results: There was 433 school children aged 7 to 12 years old with 224 males and 209 females respondents. Three-quarters main source of water supply in the homes from treated water. Those with proper built toilet were 96%. Practices of washing hands after toilet and before eating were 96% as well. Almost 95% wear slippers when outside homes. Only 61% took their anti-helminths drug in the past 1 year while in the last 6 months the uptake was 38.7%. The prevalence of positive ova of STH in the stool sample was 57 out of 433 or 13.2%. STH infection was not statistically significant associated with the above factors. Conclusion: The prevalence of STH infection among primary school children in the district of Kudat although has lowered over the years is still considered higher than most states in Malaysia. Continuous public health intervention is necessary to further bring down the prevalence of STH infections.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Fulltext Identifying the nurses’ knowledge and practice on preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia in the intensive care unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital 2, Sabah

Patricia Sator, Noorhafizah Ag Riun

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):43-43.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is defined as pneumonia that occurs 48-72 hours or there-after following endotracheal intubation. VAP increased health care costs due to hospital length of stay. Since VAP can be prevented, this study underscores the importance of identifying the current knowledge and practice on the prevention of VAP among the ICU nurses in Queen Elizabeth Hospital 2 (QEH2). The objective of this study is to determine the nurse’s knowledge and practice towards VAP prevention. Methods: The methodology used for this study is a cross-sectional study to evaluate nurses’ knowledge and practice in the ICU, QEH2. 82 ICU QEH2 nurs-es participated. Data were collected using a modified structured questionnaire based on the checklist of VAP data elements. The elements covered in the questionnaire consist of three parts, which are Part A on socio-demographic information, Part B on knowledge ventilator-associated pneumonia events and Part C on nurse’s prevention practice on ventilator-associated events. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The overall results of this study are 45.1% of the nurses were less knowledgeable on VAP prevention and this could lead to a prevalence of VAP in the unit. VAP is a new concept implemented in 2013, meaning that 48.53% (n=33) nurses who trained 2-5 years ago may have not covered VAP in their infection prevention and control training. Most of the ICU nurses did not profoundly practices on subglottic suction (35/82), hand hygiene prior suctioning (40/82), hand hygiene after ETT suction (16/82) and delirium risk assessment (1/82). As a discussion, this could mean the ICU nurses do not have adequate knowledge and practice awareness on VAP prevention. Conclusion: For the conclusion of this study, the nurses working in ICU, QEH2 practiced most of the recommended VAP prevention but not all. Continuous training on prevention for VAP in ICU needs to be review. The hospital management to ensure the availability of the facilities needed and the adoption of guidelines based on evidence-based practice.

Matched MeSH terms: Hand Hygiene
Fulltext Understanding UMS nursing students’ perception of caring patients with MRSA

Patricia Sator, Mezi Marcella Madius, Magdlin Sargius, Bertsy Deborah Louis, Grace Shirley Randy

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2019;15(106):44-44.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacteria or germ which many people carry in their nose or on their skin and it is resistant to a range of antibiotics including methicillin. The primary mode of transmission of S. aureus is by direct contact usually, skin-to-skin contact, although contact with contaminated objects and surfaces or might also play a role. The risk of infection by antibiotic-resistant organisms is a common problem in a hospital setting. When it comes to caring for the patient with an infectious disease such as MRSA, most nursing students tried to avoid caring for the patient because they fear of getting infected. So, in this regards that it is important to find out the perception of nursing students towards MRSA patients. Methods: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study design and a structured questionnaire used to evaluate the perception among student nurses regarding care for a patient with MRSA. The population of this study consists only of the nursing student of year 2 and year 3, which is 118 students. A minimum of 60 respondents selected by convenient sampling from this population. Results: Findings showed the respondent’s perception towards MRSA patients that 83.55% (n=55) of the respondent has the feeling of avoiding getting close to MRSA patients. While 16.7% (n=11) did not have the feeling to avoid them. 47% (n=31%) respondents felt refused to do any procedure on MRSA patients. While 53% (n=35) did not feel refuse to do any procedure on MRSA patient. 92.4% (n=61) respondents wear full PPE before caring for patients with MRSA. The other 7.6% (n=5) did not wear full PPE before caring for patients with MRSA. 98.5% (n=65) respondents always follow 5 moments of hand hygiene. While the other 1.5% (n=1) did not always follow 5 moments of hand hygiene. Conclusion: To conclude, even though most of the respondents know about MRSA but some of them did not know that MRSA is curable or not, some confusion about the mode of transmission of MRSA and did not know that they should wear full PPE in caring for the patient with MRSA. Lack of knowledge about MRSA might influence them to ask their friends to do procedures for the patient instead of doing it by themselves. Without good knowledge and skills about how to handle infectious patients, it is difficult for the nursing students to approach the patient with an infectious disease such as MRSA.

Matched MeSH terms: Hand Hygiene
Fulltext THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ADSORBENT DERIVED FROM MORINGA OLEIFERA AS A WATER TREATMENT AGENT

Farasyahida A. Samad, Wan Salida Wan Mansor, idayatul Aini Zakaria

UMT Journal of Undergraduate Research, 2019;1(4):51-60.
MyJurnal

Clean, safe and readily available water is very crucial in everyday life, especially for health, hygiene, and the productivity of the community. Unfortunately, increase in contaminants in water supplies from human activities and industrialization is very worrying. Conventional wastewater treatment includes the usage of alum that will affect health with prolonged consumption. This research was carried out to focus on the development of wastewater treatment system using adsorbent from Moringa oleifera seeds. Adsorbent was successfully synthesized from the seeds of Moringa oleifera. Characterization of the sample was made using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), while the effectiveness of water treatment was analyzed using Turbidity Meter. Then, all samples were tested against kaolin wastewater. XRD results showed that all the adsorbent samples were amorphous in nature. FTIR results indicated that there were hydroxyl group and carboxylic group in the sample representing numerous oxygen-riddled functional groups on the surface. From SEM results, it was clearly shown that the pore structure and size of Moringa oleifera affected the capability of adsorption where the smaller the size, the more effective the sample. Turbidity test showed that the sample that worked best for wastewater treatment was adsorbent from Moringa oleifera seeds in size of 125µm that was heated for 4 hours with 93.76% turbidity removal. Therefore, this study proved that the adsorbent from Moringa oleifera seeds is very suitable for high turbidity wastewater treatment. Further studies investigating the combination of conventional activated carbon with adsorbent from Moringa oleifera seeds should be conducted before these samples are made available for further use so that we can compare which sample works best for wastewater treatment.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Fulltext Factors associated with stunting among Orang Asli preschool children in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

Wan, Ying Gan, Siti Fatihah Murtaza, Norhasmah Sulaiman, Zalilah Mohd Shariff

Malays J Nutr, 2018;24(2):215-226.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Childhood stunting is recognised as one of the most significant
barriers to human development. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the
factors associated with stunting among Orang Asli (OA) preschool children in Negeri
Sembilan, Malaysia.

Methods: A total of 264 children (50.9% boys and 49.1%
girls) aged 2-6 years (M=4.04, SD=1.21 years) including their mothers from 14 OA
villages in Negeri Sembilan participated in this study. Mothers were interviewed to
obtain information regarding socioeconomic status, sanitation facility and personal
hygiene. The height of the children and their mothers were measured. Venous
blood samples were drawn from the children to estimate haemoglobin level, and
stool samples were collected to screen for intestinal parasitic infections.

Results:
Approximately one third of the children (35.6%) and 7.8% of the mothers were
stunted. One in five of the children were anaemic (21.6%), while one- third had
intestinal parasitic infections (35.0%). Low birth weight (AOR=2.526, 95% CI: 1.310-
4.872; p=0.006), anaemia (AOR=2.742, 95% CI: 1.265-5.945; p=0.011), presence
of intestinal parasitic infections (AOR=2.235, 95% CI: 1.310-3.813, p=0.003), not
wearing shoes (AOR=2.602, 95% CI: 1.453-4.660; p=0.001), absence of piped water
at home (AOR=2.395, 95% CI: 1.047-5.476; p=0.039), dirty nails (AOR=1.956, 95%
CI: 1.163-3.289, p=0.011), and stunted mothers (AOR=3.443, 95% CI: 1.334-8.890;
p=0.011) were identified as significant factors for childhood stunting.

Conclusion:
It is suggested that the factors identified associated with childhood stunting be
included in future intervention programmes that address stunting among OA
children.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Intestinal parasitic infections frequency in referred patients to a large teaching hospital, Khuzestan, Southwest, Iran, 2017

Feiz Haddad MH, Maraghi S, Ali SA, Feiz Haddad R, Nasser Zadeh R

Trop Biomed, 2018 Dec 01;35(4):915-925.
PMID: 33601841

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the most important infectious diseases in Iran. A cross sectional study was designed to determine frequency of intestinal parasites among referrals to a large teaching hospital in Khuzestan, Southwest of Iran, 2017. A total number of 5613 stool samples were examined through direct smear and formalin-ether concentration methods to detect possible parasitic infections. Samples consisted of 2643 (47.09%) male and 2970 (52.91%) female. A total of 1468 (26.15%) samples were positive (13.11% male and 13.4% female) and 4145 (73.85%) were negative. The results also showed that 255 of samples had more than one type of parasite (mix infections). Counting single and mix parasite infections, the total number of positive cases reached to 1723. Helminthes parasites were present in 12 (0.7%) cases, while intestinal protozoan parasites were in 1711 (99.3%) cases. Almost equally, pathogenic and nonpathogenic parasites infected 860 (49.91%) and 863 (50.09%) of patients, respectively. The frequency for helminthes was determined at 0.52% with Hymenolepis nana and Enterobius vermicularis however, Giardia lamblia in 38.54% and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar at 10.68% were concluded as protozoa elements. The IPIs frequency was recorded in female and male patients at 49.16% and 50.14%, respectively. According to the current results the infection rate of intestinal parasites has been significantly reduced especially for helminths infections in this region possibly due to public attention to health issues such as; increased awareness of people, improvement of sanitation, seasonal variations, health education and personal hygiene.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Diagnostics of intestinal parasites by light microscopy among the population of children between the ages of 4-12 in eastern Turkey

Babat SO, Sirekbasan S, Macin S, Kariptas E, Polat E

Trop Biomed, 2018 Dec 01;35(4):1087-1091.
PMID: 33601855

Intestinal parasitic infections are among important health problems in developing countries. In societies living in low socioeconomic conditions, it has been neglected and mostly affects children. It is important to determine the prevalence and type of intestinal parasites in order to determine the intervention strategies for these infections. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate intestinal parasite prevalence and IgE levels and the factors associated with the region in which the children population live, in Sirnak province, in the eastern of Turkey. A total of 357 symptomatic children aged 4 to 12 years, who were admitted to the Paediatric Polyclinic of Sirnak State Hospital, were examined prospectively. The collected stool samples were examined with direct wet-mount and concentration method under light microscope. In addition, total serum IgE levels were compared among 223 children with parasitic disease and 134 children without parasitic disease. One or more intestinal parasites were detected in 223 out of the 357 children participating in the study. The ratio of single, double, and triple parasitic infections in children was 32.5 %, 22.4 % and 7.6 %, respectively. The most common parasites determined in the study were Taenia spp. (39.9%), Enterobius vermicularis (38.6%) and Giardia intestinalis. (30 %). The difference between IgE levels determined in both groups was not regarded to be statistically significant. This study indicated that that intestinal polyparism is very common in children living in the province of Sirnak, which is located in the east of Turkey, neighbouring Iraq and Syria in the South. For this reason, sustainable control measures are urgently needed to improve personal hygiene and sanitation, to provide a healthy infrastructure and to improve the quality of existing water resources.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Prevalence and intensity of helminths among inhabitants of the Chi River and Lahanna water reservoir areas of Northeastern Thailand

Rattanapitoon SK, Pechdee P, Boonsuya A, Meererksom T, Wakkhuwatapong P, Leng M, et al.

Trop Biomed, 2020 Sep 01;37(3):730-743.
PMID: 33612786 DOI: 10.47665/tb.37.3.730

Helminth infections (HIs) are an important public health problem in tropical countries, and the associated problems have been neglected in rural areas of Thailand. Therefore, this study reports the prevalence and intensity of HIs among inhabitants of the Khon Sawan district, Chaiyaphum province, and Kaeng Samnam Nang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, which are located near the Chi River and Lahanna water reservoir, northeastern Thailand. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between July 31, 2018, and June 30, 2019, among rural villagers from 40 rural villages in 4 subdistricts. The participants were selected from the village enrolment list after proportional allocation of the total sample size. Faecal samples from 691 inhabitants were prepared using solvent-free faecal parasite concentrator, and helminths were then detected using a light microscope. Statistical analysis included the Chi-square test with Yates correction, and multivariable logistic regression was performed. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of HIs was 2.03%. The most prevalent helminths were Opisthorchis viverrini (1.31%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (0.44%), Ascaris lumbricoides (0.29%), hookworm (0.15%), Teania spp. (0.15%) and one minute intestinal fluke (0.15%). Coinfections were identified in 2 cases for S. stercoralis and hookworm and 1 case for O. viverrini and S. stercoralis infection. All infected participants had a light intensity of HI. There was no significant difference between general characteristics for all HIs. The prevalence of HIs was not significantly associated with general characteristics. This study indicates that the infections result mainly from foodborne helminths and skin-penetrating nematodes. Therefore, interventions should concentrate on the personal hygiene of the population and improving sanitation to reduce HIs in this area.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Subtype distribution of Blastocystis isolated from humans and associated animals in an indigenous community with poor hygiene in Peninsular Malaysia

Mohammad NA, Al-Mekhlafi HM, Anuar TS

Trop Biomed, 2018 Dec 01;35(4):849-860.
PMID: 33601835

Blastocystis is one of the most common parasites inhabiting the intestinal tract of human and animals. Currently, human Blastocystis isolates are classified into nine subtypes (STs) based on the phylogeny of their small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene. Although its pathogenicity remains controversial, the possibility of zoonotic transmission was recognized since eight of the nine STs (except for ST9) have been reported in both humans and animals. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis isolated from humans and associated animals in an indigenous community with poor hygiene in Malaysia, where the risk of parasitic infection is high. A total of 275 stool samples were collected, subjected to DNA extraction and amplified by PCR assay. The Blastocystis-positive amplicons were then purified and sequenced. Phylogenetic tree of positive isolates, reference strains and outgroup were constructed using maximum likelihood method based on Hasegawa-KishinoYano+G+I model. The prevalence of Blastocystis infection among humans and domestic animals by PCR assay were 18.5% (45/243) and 6.3% (2/32), respectively. Through molecular phylogeny, 47 isolates were separated into five clusters containing isolates from both hosts. Among human isolates, ST3 (53.3%) was the predominant subtype, followed by ST1 (31.1%) and ST2 (15.6%). Chicken and cattle had lower proportions of ST6 (50%) and ST10 (50%), that were barely seen in humans. The distinct distributions of the most important STs among the host animals as well as humans examined demonstrate that there is various host-specific subtypes in the lifecycle of Blastocystis.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene
Evaluation of bactericidal and virucidal activity of novel disinfectant Aaride AGT-1 compared to other commercially available disinfectants against hospital-acquired infections (HAIs)

Jindal HM, Chandramathi S, Sekaran SD, Suresh K

Trop Biomed, 2020 Sep 01;37(3):626-636.
PMID: 33612777 DOI: 10.47665/tb.37.3.626

Hand hygiene is the topmost crucial procedure to prevent hospital-acquired infections. Choosing an effective hand disinfectant is necessary in enforcing good hand hygiene practice especially in hospital settings. The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of Aaride AGT-1 as a hand disinfectant for the inhibition of pathogenic microorganisms' transmission among both patients and personnel in the health care system compared to other commercially available disinfectants. In the present study, a new hand disinfectant Aaride AGT-1 was tested against several bacterial and viral pathogens to evaluate its antimicrobial activity profile. The results revealed that Aaride AGT-1 displayed the highest antibacterial activity against five pathogenic bacteria including MRSA when compared to other commercially available hand sanitizers. Aaride AGT-1 showed the lowest percentage needed to inhibit the growth of bacterial pathogens. In addition, results obtained from time killing assay revealed that Aaride AGT-1 demonstrated the best killing kinetics, by eradicating the bacterial cells rapidly within 0.5 min with 6 log reduction (>99.99% killing). Also, Aaride AGT1 was able to reduce 100% plaque formed by three viruses namely HSV-1, HSV-2 and EV-71. In conclusion, Aaride AGT-1 is capable of killing wide-spectrum of pathogens including bacteria and viruses compared to other common disinfectants used in hospital settings. Aaride AGT-1's ability to kill both bacteria and viruses contributes as valuable addition to the hand disinfection portfolio.

Matched MeSH terms: Hand Hygiene
Factors associated with clinical and perceived oral malodor among dental students

Rani H, Ueno M, Zaitsu T, Furukawa S, Kawaguchi Y

J. Med. Dent. Sci., 2015;62(2):33-41.
PMID: 26183831 DOI: 10.11480/620202

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with clinical and perceived oral malodor among dental students. Clinical oral malodor was measured in 163 Malaysian dental students using organoleptic method and Oral ChromaTM and they were asked about their perception of self-oral malodor. Oral examination was performed to assess oral health status. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 19.0. There were 52.7% students who had clinical oral malodor, while 19.0% students perceived they had oral malodor. The sensitivity (0.244) of self-perceived oral malodor was lower than its specificity (0.870). Tongue coating was closely associated with clinical oral malodor whereas high plaque index was closely associated with perceived oral malodor. These results showed that clinical oral malodor was prevalent among dental students, but students' perception of oral malodor did not always reflect actual clinical oral malodor. Furthermore, associating factors of clinical oral malodor differ from perceived oral malodor. The importance of controlling clinical oral malodor with proper tongue cleaning should be emphasized and dental students should be taught on the differences between clinical and perceived oral malodor in order to manage this problem.

Matched MeSH terms: Oral Hygiene
Fulltext Acute gastroenteritis among indigenous paediatric patients – a descriptive study in a rural district hospital, Sarawak

Cheah, W. L., Lee, P. Y., Kamarudin, K., Syed Alwi, S. A. R., Albela, H., Lau, E. H., et al.

Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2011;7(2):3-7.
MyJurnal

Introduction: Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is one of the frequent causes of hospitalization in children under the age of five, particularly in a rural setting. This study was conducted to determine the epidemiology of acute gastroenteritis in indigenous children admitted to a rural district hospital in Sarawak. Methods: A retrospective review of indigenous paediatrics cases of acute gastroenteritis
admitted to the ward of Serian District Hospital, a rural district hospital in Sarawak, between the years
2006-2007. The data was collected from the patients’ case notes, obtained with permission from the
hospital management. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: During the study period, 234 indigenous children with acute gastroenteritis were admitted with the highest prevalence in 2006 (53.4%). The findings showed higher prevalence was found in children aged 3 years and below (76.5%) and male (56.4%) The minimum duration of hospital stay is 1 day, and the maximum stay is 5 days. The clinical findings showed that the majority of the cases presented with vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth and tongue, sunken eye, with the majority (76%) reported having mild dehydration. The most common treatment used is oral rehydration solutions (85.4%), followed by intravenous bolus or drip (82.3%), paracetamol (79%) and antibiotic (36.2%). Peak incidence of admissions was between November to January. About 38.5% of the AGE cases admitted were found to be underweight (weight for- age below -2SD). Conclusion: The findings indicated children aged 3 years and below are the most vulnerable to AGE and malnutrition could be one of the predisposing factors. The peak incidence during the raining season at the end of the year indicated a possible relationship between AGE and seasonal type of virus infection. Prevention in the form of proper hygiene at the household level probably will prove to be useful.

Matched MeSH terms: Hygiene

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