Good Hygiene Practices Research Articles

Nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards hand hygiene in Aceh, Indonesia: A correlational study among surgical nurses

This study aims to thoroughly examine nurses' knowledge and attitudes about hand hygiene and investigate how these factors are related. Conducted in a hospital environment, the research aims to gather detailed information to help develop better hand hygiene practices among nurses. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a global issue, impacting numerous people each year. However, consistent hand hygiene can greatly reduce these infections. Nurses are vital in preventing HAIs, and this study looks at the hand hygiene behaviors of thirty-three surgical nurses. The research involved collecting data through three questionnaires and analyzing it with the Pearson correlation test. The results revealed that the average knowledge score of the nurses was 11.6, and their average attitude score was 16.33. There was a strong correlation (r=0.688) between the nurses' knowledge and their attitudes towards hand hygiene practices. Moreover, a significant positive correlation (ρ-value of 0.000) was observed, indicating a meaningful relationship between knowledge levels and attitudes towards hand hygiene. The findings suggest that enhancing knowledge about hand hygiene results in a more positive attitude towards its practices. The role of the hospital ward manager is crucial in maintaining proper hand hygiene among staff. As a role model, supervisor, and evaluator, the ward manager significantly influences awareness and adherence to good hand hygiene practices. Additionally, the hospital should provide adequate support and resources to enable staff to perform hand hygiene effectively.

Prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites on pig farms in Kalasin Province, Thailand.

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasite infections are the foremost and prevalent diseases that affect pigs in Thailand. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of GI parasites among pigs in Kalasin Province. This study is the first attempt to understand the occurrence of GI parasites in pigs within Kalasin province using fecal samples as the methodology. We collected 324 fecal samples directly from the rectums of pigs from May to July 2023. The formalin-ethyl acetate concentration and floatation methods were used to examine these samples. The eggs or oocysts were identified by observing their morphology and size under a light microscope. Of the 324 fecal samples examined, 276 tested positive for gastrointestinal parasitic infections, resulting in a prevalence rate of 85.19%. Nematodes were the most prevalent, with Strongyle-type infections being the highest in 267 cases (82.41%), followed by Ascaris suum in 222 cases (68.52%), and Trichuris spp. in 152 cases (46.91%). Strongyloides spp. infections were also observed in 92 cases (28.40%). However, trematode infection was relatively rare, with only Fasciola spp. found in 15 cases (4.63%). We identified Eimeria spp. in 87 cases (26.85%), Iodamoeba spp. in 70 cases (21.60%), Balantidium coli in 67 cases (20.68%), and Isospora spp. in 52 cases (16.05%). Notably, most of the positive fecal samples showed double infections with a prevalence rate of approximately 38.27%. Single infections were the next most common, accounting for 25.31% of the cases, followed by 3 parasites (14.81%) and 4-5 parasites (6.79%). This study underscores the high endemicity of GI parasites among pigs in Kalasin province. To improve prevention and control measures, it is recommended to establish a health monitoring program that includes deworming and emphasizes good hygiene practices. The insights gained from this study will contribute to the enhancement of pig farming practices in Kalasin province, ultimately leading to improved production and profitability. In addition, future research should focus on detecting these parasites in Kalasin and exploring their relationship with human transmission cycle.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW: ZOONOSIS ASSOCIATED WITH MOUSE AND RAT

Mouse and rat borne zoonotic diseases refer to illnesses that can be transmitted from rodents such as mice and rats to humans. These animals can carry various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can cause diseases in humans through direct contact, inhalation of airborne particles, consumption of contaminated food or water, or via vectors such as ticks and fleas. Here are some common mouse and rat zoonotic diseases: Leptospirosis, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM), Rat-Bite Fever (RBF), Salmonellosis dan Pes. Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection is caused by Leptospira bacteria found in the urine of infected rodents. Humans can contract leptospirosis through contact with contaminated water, soil, or food. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like illness to severe complications involving the kidneys, liver, and other organs. Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): Hantaviruses are transmitted to humans through contact with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, primarily from deer mice. Inhalation of aerosolized virus particles is the most common route of transmission. HPS can lead to severe respiratory illness, with symptoms including fever, muscle aches, coughing, and potentially fatal pulmonary edema. Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM): LCM is caused by the Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV), which is carried by house mice. Humans can become infected through exposure to rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting materials. LCM can cause flu-like symptoms initially and may progress to more severe neurological complications, including meningitis and encephalitis. Rat-Bite Fever (RBF): This bacterial infection is caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis (commonly associated with rat bites) or Spirillum minus (associated with exposure to rat feces or urine). RBF can result from a bite or scratch from an infected rodent or handling of contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and in severe cases, endocarditis or meningitis. Salmonellosis: Salmonella bacteria can be carried by rodents, particularly in their feces. Humans can contract salmonellosis through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, as well as through direct contact with rodents or their habitats. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting. Pes: While commonly associated with fleas that infest rodents like rats, plague bacteria (Yersinia pestis) can also be transmitted directly through contact with infected rodents or their bodily fluids. Plague can manifest as bubonic (swollen lymph nodes), septicemic, or pneumonic forms, with symptoms ranging from fever and chills to respiratory distress and organ failure. Preventing mouse and rat zoonotic diseases involves maintaining good hygiene practices, such as proper food storage, waste disposal, and rodent-proofing buildings. Additionally, avoiding contact with wild rodents and seeking prompt medical attention if exposed to rodents or experiencing symptoms of illness are crucial preventive measures.

Feed supplementation with Ligilactobacillus salivarius PS21603 optimises intestinal morphology and gut microbiota composition in weaned piglets.

Post-weaning diarrhoea in piglets remains an important cause of economic losses for swine producers. Feed supplementation with probiotics is one of the alternatives to antibiotics used to reduce the impact of such gastrointestinal disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Ligilactobacillus salivarius PS21603 supplementation on the intestinal structure and the gut microbiota composition of weaned piglets. Safety and tolerance of L. salivarius PS21603 were previously evaluated in a 28-days study using 384 weaned piglets (28± 2 days old and 7.5± 1.5kg) divided in three treatment groups: T1: Basal diet+ L. salivarius PS21603 109 cfu/day, T2: Basal diet+ L. salivarius PS21603 107 cfu/day, and T3: Basal diet (control group). For the present study, 16 piglets per treatment group were randomly selected and faecal samples were collected on day 0 (weaning) and 28 of study. At the end of study, three males and three females per treatment were euthanised. Intestinal morphometric values were measured after necropsy. Faecal counts of Escherichia coli were evaluated by culture techniques, and faecal microbiota composition was assessed by high-throughput sequencing. All data were analysed and compared between treatment groups. Supplementation with L. salivarius PS21603 caused an increase in the intestine length of piglets from T1 and in the villous height:crypt ratio of piglets from T2 (P< 0.05) compared to T3 on day 28. According to the Shannon Diversity Index, microbiota diversity increased on day 28 compared to day 0, with no significant differences observed between treatments. The main changes in the relative abundance of bacteria at the phylum, family, and genus levels were observed between different sampling time points. However, piglets from T1 and T2 had lower faecal E. coli counts than T3 on day 28 (P< 0.05). Moreover, supplementation with L. salivarius PS21603 modulated gut microbiota through a more optimal composition, reducing Escherichia and increasing Bifidobacterium relative abundance in piglets from T1 (P< 0.05) from the beginning to the end of the study. Therefore, the strain L. salivarius PS21603 has shown probiotic properties to be used as feed additive in the pig industry, along with good hygiene and farm management practices, for the prevention and/or treatment of post-weaning diarrhoea in piglets.

Anti-microbial efficacy of a scientifically developed and standardized herbal-alcohol sanitizer.

Hands are the primary mode of transmission of microbe-based infections, as they harbor normal microbiota and pathogenic microbes. SARS-CoV-2 has endangered lives worldwide, and WHO has recommended good hygiene practices, especially hand hygiene. In addition, other infectious diseases like diphtheria, measles, tuberculosis, HIV, malaria, etc. are spreading in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. The anti-microbial efficiency of two in-house developed herbal-alcohol based hand sanitizers containing Azadirachta indica, Citrus limon, Zingiber officinale, and Aloe vera (HS1) and Zingiber officinale replaced with Ocimum sanctum (HS2) was evaluated. HS1, with Zingiber officinale, and HS2, with Ocimum sanctum, herbal sanitizers showcased in-vitro anti-viral activity on MDCK cells using the reference strain of influenza A virus, A/PR/8/34 (H1N1), and reduced 99.99% of microbial load within 30s of contact time, estimated by the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Method. On volunteers, HS1 and HS2 were more effective than alcohol-based WHO sanitizers. Moreover, HS2 sanitizer is more effective against viruses and has better efficiency and hedonic qualities in volunteers than HS1. These sanitizers don't irritate or dry up the skin and have a longer shelf life. Overall, findings reveal that herbal-alcohol-based sanitizers are promising hand hygiene products with the capability of reducing microbial load.

P1216 Oral Health status in Inflammatory Bowel Disease patients

Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) affect de gastrointestinal tract primarily as it occurs in oral Crohn´s disease (CD) or as an extraintestinal manifestation (EIM) as aphthous stomatitis either in CD or ulcerative colitis (UC). Moreover, data suggest that IBD patients have a higher prevalence of caries and periodontal disease. The aim of our study was the characterization of oral heath in a cohort of IBD patients compared with a control group without IBD and determine the need of oral health intervention in IBD population. Methods This was a collaborative transversal cohort study between an IBD medical appointment in a tertiary hospital and a faculty of dental medicine. Patients from IBD appointment were invited to participate and gave their informed consent. The only exclusion criteria were the incapacity to open the mouth or give a written informed consent. Data was collected regarding demographics, disease characterization, activity, previous IBD related surgeries and current and previous IBD treatments. The control group were heathy controls matched by age and sex. Oral health assessment was achieved by an intraoral clinical examination with the aid of artificial light, oral mirror and WHO periodontal probe. Periodontal diagnosis was achieved through an online periodontal chart (https://www.periodontalchart-online.com), and classified according to periodontal health, periodontitis (stage and grade) and gingivitis. Oral examination provided the Decayed, Missing due to caries, and Filled Teeth Score (DMFT Score) and need for dental treatment and/or prosthetic rehabilitation. Results Oral health status of IBD patients confirm the high incidence of PD, with a prevalence of 55.3% and 69.4% for CD and UC patients, respectively. It is important to refer most of the patients diagnosed with PD suffer from the most severe stage of the disease (III and IV), which is not observed for the control group. Poor oral health status is also evident due to the need for dental treatment, since 88.1% of IBD patients need dental treatment and 38.1% need prosthetic rehabilitation (table 1). Conclusion IBD affects mainly the digestive system, however there is growing evidence that it also has implications for oral health, namely in periodontitis development, as shown in this study. Thus, good oral hygiene practices, including regular dental check-ups and personalized protocol of periodontal therapy are essential for these patients. Moreover, the collaboration between gastroenterologists and dental professionals is crucial to providing comprehensive care for patients with IBD, addressing both their gastrointestinal and oral health needs.

What are the Strategies for Controlling Hydatid Cysts in Developing Countries?

Hydatid cysts (HC), caused by the tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus, pose a significant public health challenge in many developing countries. These cysts primarily affect livestock, such as sheep, cattle, and goats, but can also infect humans, the two most important forms in humans are cystic echinococcosis (hydatidosis) and alveolar echinococcosis, leading to serious health complications. Control measures for HC are crucial to lessen the impact on both human and animal health. This editorial explores the possible strategies for controlling HC in developing countries, focusing on prevention, surveillance, treatment, and community education [1,2]. Preventing HC in developing countries may require a multifaceted approach. One crucial aspect is controlling the transmission of Echinococcus eggs from infected animals to humans. This involves implementing measures such as deworming programs for livestock, proper disposal of infected animal carcasses, and promoting good hygiene practices among livestock handlers and population Furthermore, community education plays a vital role in preventing HC. Educating individuals about the risks associated with handling infected animals, the importance of proper hand hygiene, and the benefits of cooking meat thoroughly can help reduce the transmission of the parasite [2]. Effective surveillance is essential for monitoring the prevalence of HC and identifying high-risk areas in developing countries. Surveillance systems should involve regular screening of both livestock and humans for Echinococcus infection. This can be achieved through the use of diagnostic tests such as serological assays and imaging techniques like ultrasound. Additionally, active surveillance programs can help detect outbreaks early and facilitate timely intervention measures. Collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and veterinary professionals are crucial for establishing robust surveillance systems in resource-limited settings [3, 4]. Treating HC in developing countries often presents challenges due to limited access to healthcare resources and diagnostic tools. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications such as cyst rupture and dissemination. Surgical intervention remains the primary treatment option for HC, involving the removal of the cysts and surrounding tissue. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques such as puncture–aspiration–injection–re-aspiration (PAIR) may be used as an alternative to surgery, particularly in resource-limited settings. In addition to medical treatment, access to safe and effective anthelmintic drugs is crucial for controlling HC. Ensuring the availability of these medications and training healthcare providers in their appropriate use are essential components of treatment strategies in developing countries [5,6]. Educating communities about HC, their transmission, and prevention measures might play a significant role in sustainable control efforts. This can be achieved through various educational initiatives, including workshops, community outreach programs, and the distribution of educational materials. Furthermore, engaging with local community leaders and healthcare providers can facilitate the adoption of preventive measures within communities. Emphasizing the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and proper hygiene practices can empower individuals to take proactive steps in protecting themselves and their livestock from HC. In conclusion, controlling HC in developing countries requires a comprehensive approach that addresses prevention, surveillance, treatment, and community education. By implementing targeted interventions and fostering collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, community stakeholders, and the scientific community However, extensive research and investigations in this regard are highly recommended.

Characterization and safety of commercial table olives from the Algerian market

In this study, a comprehensive physicochemical characterization of commercial table olives from the Algerian market was conducted, revealing significant discrepancies with international regulations and indicating non-compliance with established standards. Spanish-style green olives and natural turning color olives, for the most part, did not meet the established standards regarding pH and salt concentration. Additionally, samples of oxidized black olives were found, which, due to their high pH, should undergo sterilization but were stored in non-sterilized containers. Microbiological analysis revealed high populations of Enterobacteriaceae and other spoilage microorganisms in the brines, indicating possible deficiencies in hygiene practices during production. The study evaluating the survival of pathogenic microorganisms in the samples indicated that the physicochemical conditions of the product, such as pH and salt concentration, played a crucial role in the non-survival of these pathogens. Furthermore, an antimicrobial effect of certain phenolic compounds present in olives was observed, highlighting the importance of these compounds in food safety.In summary, this study provides a snapshot of the quality of table olives available in the outlets surveyed and underscores the importance of strict microbiological control, quality, and appropriate production practices in the table olive industry in Algeria. The use of preservatives and heat treatments, along with good manufacturing and hygiene practices, are useful tools as control measures to reduce spoilage in table olives. Adhering to established standards in international regulations for table olive processing and implementing effective control measures are essential steps to ensure the quality, safety, and consumer acceptance of this traditionally valued food product.

EGGS IN THE HUMAN DIET - FACTS AND CHALLENGES

Eggs are a good source of balanced nutritional and biologically active substances - proteins, lipids, some irreplaceable nutritional components such as amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, macro- and microelements, etc. It is identified as the cheapest animal source of proteins, lipids, vitamins A, B12, riboflavin, choline, iron, zinc, phosphorus and calcium. At the same time, the dangers to human health that eggs can carry are also taken into account. Material/Methods: The literature used is based on databases PubMed, Embase and as well as data from own studies. Review Results: In the present review, we provide data on the importance of the composition of eggs in human nutrition are presented and the risk of their use is evaluated. Conclusions: The high biological and nutritional value of eggs are grounds for their use in the daily life of healthy people, without additional restrictions of cardiovascular diseases. There is a risk of food poisoning, which can be limited to acceptable levels by following good hygiene practices.

EDUCATION THROUGH HEALTH PROGRAMMES: EFFORTS TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY HEALTH IN SUKMAJAYA VILLAGE, JOMBANG DISTRICT, CILEGON CITY

Objective study This is to provide service information education through health programmes: efforts to strengthen community health in Sukmajaya Village, Jombang District, Cilegon ty. As for the method used, i.e., ie The method used in this research is PAR (participatory action research). PAR is a research approach that actively involves all relevant parties in a participatory For study ongoing action. Results study that is In carrying out a health education programme in Sukmajaya Village, Jombang District, Cilegon City on November 13, 2023, it can be concluded that this effort has great potential to create even and sustainable positive changes in various aspects of community life. This programme not only educates about the importance of cleanliness for physical health but also has a significant impact on social and economic aspects. Through outreach sessions, practical demonstrations, and cross-sector collaboration, village communities are expected to understand and internalise good hygiene practices. This change in behaviour is not only temporary but is expected to become part of the norms and values that continue to be passed on from one generation to the next.

EDUKASI PERILAKU HIDUP BERSIH DAN SEHAT TERHADAP ANAK USIA SEKOLAH DENGAN MEDIA ULAR TANGGA DI SMP METHODIST 1 KUTALIMBARU KABUPATEN DELI SERDANG

Good hygiene practices (PHBS) are activities that must be carried out by all groups, not only for children during their toddler years, the golden period of growth, but also for middle school children at their peak. And the development of high school students often face health problems including infections due to cat bites due to not practicing PHBS. Therefore, this community service was carried out at Kutalimbaru Methodist 1 Middle School to provide PHBS education to school children using the game Snakes and Ladders as a learning tool. This activity is not just a game of snakes and ladders: students learn while playing. PHBS material is presented through a quiz where participants click on certain numbers and images related to their school's PHBS logo. The launch of the training went well, and in the initial discussions about the game, the students were very enthusiastic and gave a strong response. The application of Hygiene and Sanitation Tips (PHBS) using Snakes and Ladders Media is considered effective in increasing students' awareness and understanding of clean and healthy living behavior.&#x0D; Keywords: Clean and healthy living behavior (PHBS), Education, Snake and Ladder Game

Deep neck space infections in end-stage renal disease patients: Prevalence and mortality.

Deep neck space infections (DNSI) are severe infections within the layers of neck fascia that are known to be associated with underlying immunocompromised states. Although uremia associated with kidney disease is known to cause immune system dysfunction, DNSI in patients with kidney disease has been poorly studied. This study investigated the prevalence of DNSI and the associated risk of mortality within the United States end-stage renal disease (ESRD) population, using a retrospective cohort study design and the United States Renal Data System database of patients (ages 18-100) who initiated dialysis therapy between 2005 and 2019. International Classification of Disease-9 and -10 codes were used to identify the diagnosis of DNSI and comorbid conditions. Of the 705,891 included patients, 2.2% had a diagnosis of DNSI. Variables associated with increased risk of DNSI were female sex, black compared to white race, catheter, or graft compared to arteriovenous fistula (AVF) access, autoimmune disease, chronic tonsillitis, diagnoses in the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), tobacco use, and alcohol dependence. DNSI diagnosis was an independent risk factor for mortality, which was also associated with other comorbidity factors such as older age, catheter or graft compared to AVF access, comorbidities in the CCI, tobacco use, and alcohol dependence. Because of the increased mortality risk of DSNI in the ESRD population, health professionals should encourage good oral hygiene practices and smoking cessation, and they should closely monitor these patients to reduce poor outcomes.

Prevalence of undernutrition and associated factors among street adolescents in adama town, oromia regional state, Ethiopia, 2023: A cross sectional study.

Undernutrition remains a serious public health problem in developing countries, including Ethiopia. In particular, street adolescents are more at risk for undernutrition because they are the most underprivileged population. However, there is a paucity of information about undernutrition among street adolescents in Ethiopia. To assess the prevalence of undernutrition (stunting and thinness) and factors associated with undernutrition among street adolescents in Adama town, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia, 2023. A community-based cross sectional study was conducted among 358 street adolescents from January 15-30, 2023. A convenience sampling technique was used to select the required sample size. A structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data from the respondents. The collected data were checked, coded, entered into Epidata 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25. Both Bivariable and Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the factors that are associated with thinness and stunting. P values below 0.05 at the 95% confidence interval were considered indicative of a statistically significant association. Finally, statements, graphs, tables and charts were used for result presentation. This study revealed that, the prevalence of undernutrition was 47.2%. Thinness and stunting accounted for 20.4% and 34.1% respectively and 7.3% both thinness and stuting. Age (adusted odd ratio = 1.41; 95% confidence interval: 1.17-1.71), skipped one or more meals per day ((adusted odd ratio = 3.50; 95% confidence interval: 1.23-9.94), drinking unprotected water source ((adusted odd ratio = 3.23; 95% confidence interval: 1.49-6.98) and use of mastish ((adusted odd ratio = 2.91; 95% confidence interval: 1.19-7.12) were factors statistically associated with thinness. Being skipped one or more meals per day ((adusted odd ratio = 4.14; 95% confidence interval: 1.87-9.14), washing hands before meals ((adusted odd ratio = 0.46; 95% confidence interval: 0.26-0.81) and moderate depression ((adusted odd ratio = 2.93; 95% confidence interval: 1.05-8.15) were factors significantly associated with stunting. In conculusion, the prevalence of undernutrition (thinness, stunting or both together) was high among street adolescents. To enhance street adolecents' nutritional status, targeted nutritional treatments, providing health services and good hygiene and sanitatios practices are urgently needed.

Development of an online food safety toolbox based on the Codex Alimentarius General Principles of Food Hygiene: engaging users through mapping, chunking, and learning-by-asking

Abstract Objectives The paper describes designing and developing an online food safety toolbox that aims to elevate the food safety knowledge of food business operators, competent authorities, and trainers. Materials and Methods The material within the food safety toolbox was based on the Codex Alimentarius (Codex) General Principles of Food Hygiene (GPFH), an internationally recognized primary food safety standard. The GPFH provides a guide to elements that should be considered when establishing good hygienic practices (GHPs), which are subsequently managed through hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP). To support the understanding of how to apply the principles of GHPs and HACCP, the online food safety toolbox was developed. This toolbox was designed to enable users to access the principles quickly as a reminder for better understanding of more complex matters and conceptualizing, building, and maintaining food safety management systems. The learning approaches applied in the design of the toolbox were mapping, chunking (grouping topics into a logic sequence to enable an incremental approach to learning), and learning-by-asking. The self-directed learning approach collectively enables the user to understand, categorize, and contextualize food safety information for practical use. Mapping was performed to identify the different elements within the GPFH that formed the basis of the online platform and the categories in which basic information was provided for each. Results The material progresses into greater depth in the final toolbox platform and includes links to detailed descriptions of the underlying science. This user-centric design was chosen to address different users’ needs and reduce the entry barrier for contextually applying the presented GHPs and HACCP. Conclusions The GHP and HACCP Toolbox for Food Safety should be regarded as a reference resource rather than a training program to empower the user and ultimately enhance food safety practices.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors of Hepatitis E virus infection in Zhejiang Province: a multicenter case-control study.

Hepatitis E (HE), caused by the Hepatitis E virus (HEV), is a significant cause of acute viral hepatitis globally and a major public health concern, particularly in specific high-prevalence areas in China, which have diverse transmission routes and regional differences. Identifying the primary risk factors for HE transmission is essential to develop targeted interventions for vulnerable populations. This study employed a 1:1 matched case-control methodology, using a standardized questionnaire complemented by medical records for data validation. Among the 442 HE cases and 428 healthy controls, the case group had a higher prevalence of fatigue (46.21%) and loss of appetite (43.84%) compared to the control group. Furthermore, liver function indicators were significantly higher in the case group, with an average alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level of 621.94 U/L and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level of 411.53 U/L. Severe HE patients were predominantly male, with significantly increased ALT and AST levels reaching 1443.81 U/L and 862.31 U/L respectively, along with a higher incidence of fatigue (90%) and loss of appetite (75%). Multifactorial analysis indicated that frequent dining out (OR = 2.553, 95%CI:1.686-3.868), poor hygiene conditions (OR = 3.889, 95%CI:1.399-10.807), and comorbid chronic illnesses (OR = 2.275, 95%CI:1.616-3.202) were risk factors for HE infection; conversely, good hygiene practices were protective factors against HE infection (OR = 0.698, 95%CI:0.521-0.934). In conclusion, HE infection in Zhejiang Province is closely associated with dietary habits and environmental hygiene, and individuals with chronic diseases or co-infections are at increased risk. This highlights the need for targeted health education to reduce the incidence of HE among these populations.

Risk Factors Associated with Onychomycosis in Patients Attending Dermatology Units of Some Hospitals in Benue State, Nigeria

Onychomycosis is caused by different organisms especially the genus Trichophyton responsible for fungal nail infection. If left untreated, infection can spread to every nail and over time, the nails become thick, brittle, and ingrown causing pain and discomfort. To investigate the risk factors associated with onychomycosis in patients attending some hospitals within Benue state. A total of 384 finger and toenail samples were collected, disinfected, and subjected to laboratory examination using standard microbiological procedures. Some risk factors for onychomycosis including age, occupation, gender, diabetes mellitus condition, household contacts with animals, use of occlusive footwears, obesity, immune status, family history of onychomycosis, exposure to humid environments among others were investigated using structured questionnaire. The logistic regression for multivariate analysis was further used to identify the relationship between risk factors and onychomycosis. From the 384 samples collected, 226 fungal species were isolated from culture of toeand fingernails samples. Tinea rubrum was identified in159 (70.36%) followed by As per gillusspp., 30 (13.27%), Candida (Yeast), 19 (8.41%), Trichophytoninterdigitale,11 (4.87%) and Epidermophy tonfloc cosum was8 (3.54%). Age was statistically significant toony chomycos is with a positive association (OR=3.06, P=0.02; ≤0.05), while gender (OR=0.85, P=0.45&gt;0.05)and occupation was not statistically significant (OR=1.21, P=0.66; &gt;0.05). Use of occlusive footwear, keeping of long nails, and wearing used shoes showed statistically significant associations with onychomycosis. Individuals who engaged in the afore mentioned risk factors had high odds ratio (39.0, 5.95 and 1.26 respectively). Diabetes mellitus condition, trauma/damage to nails, nail psoriasis, obesity, and immunosuppression also showed statistically significant associations with onychomycosis. Odds ratio was (1.27, 1.86, 4.12, 1.05 and 3.14) respectively. Onychomycosis remains the most common nail disorder with a significant burden. There is need for prevention through practice of good personal hygiene and prescribed treatment of onychomycosis as it can have a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life.

Impact of gingival tissue type around Dental implants on implant health and longevity: A Case report on implants around mandibular overdenture

The type of gingival tissue around dental implants is extremely important for the health and longevity implants in the mouth. Gingival tissue around dental implants can be comprised of keratinized or non-keratinized mucosal tissue. The type of soft tissue present around implants can influence the health, plaque accumulation and inflammation around dental implants. A number of studies have found that there is a need to have a minimum amount of keratinized mucosa to maintain peri-implant health especially for patients with poor oral hygiene that are at greater risk of gingival inflammation others have not found the same correlation for patients with good oral hygiene practices. More recently, a number of studies have found less potential for inflammation in sites with keratinized mucosa compared to non-keratinized mucosal tissue. The goal therefore is that when non keratinized mucosal tissue is present to utilize a soft tissue grafts to be able to regain keratinized mucosa around the implant site. This is particularly important for implant supported Overdentures where gingival augmentation can be able to improve oral hygiene, and help with resistance to trauma and abrasion from the removable prosthesis. This Case report is on utilization of a free gingival graft to increase keratinized mucosa, combined with a vestibuloplasty to increase vestibular height around implants supporting a mandibular overdenture prosthesis with the goal of improving the health and longevity of the implant supported overdenture.

Policiklični aromatični ugljovodonici kao limitirajući parametar tradicionalne proizvodnje suhomesnatih proizvoda

The goal of the study was to investigate the concentration of 16 US EPA polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and check the sensory properties in 11 dry-cured meat products, smoked in three different ways (atmospheric simulation chamber (ATMOS), industrial chamber and traditional craft smokehouse) in one meat industry facility in Serbia. Controlled industrial production cannot provide all distinguishable and specific sensory properties of traditional dry-cured products, so more and more frequently meat industries decide to include the products smoked in traditional craft smokehouses in their product assortment. 16 US EPA PAHs were determined using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method (GC-MS). The obtained results are part of the production technology validating process of the tested smoked meat products. Total concentrations of benzo(a)pyrene, benzo(a)anthracene, benzo(b)fluranthene and chrysene (comprising the so-called "PAH4" group) in traditional homemade smoked bacon produced in compliance with all the guidelines of good manufacturing and hygiene practice, reached 15.82 µg/kg what was above the legal limits set by Serbian legislation. This indicates that there is a need for monitoring the PAH content compounds in traditional smoked meat products, and quite likely the revision of the current rulebook on traditional dry-cured meat products following the EU practice.

Evaluation of the Physicochemical, Microbiological Quality and Acceptability of Nectars and Jams from Vitex doniana Fruit

This study consisted in the formulation and evaluation of the organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological qualities of nectars and jam prepared from Vitex doniana fruit. Nectars (five types) consisted of two acidulated with lemon, two acidulated with tamarind with pH values of 3.45 and 3.55, and a control. Jams (three types) were made as one acidulated with lemon, one acidulated with tamarind with a pH value of 3.88, and a control with a pH value of 4.44. The Brix values were 10.75 and 60.00 for all nectars and jam, respectively. The total sugar content of the nectars ranged from 9.52 ± 0.04 (NC1) to 9.11 ± 0.03% (T) and that of the jams from 58.27 ± 0.02% to 49.97 ± 0.01%. It appeared that prepared nectar and jam samples were of good microbiological quality, confirming compliance with good hygiene and manufacturing practices throughout the process and compliance with Algerian and Luxembourg standards.

Exploring Prevalence and Contributing Risk Factors of Repeat Breeding Syndrome of Crossbred Dairy Cows in Bangladesh

The dairy sector suffers significant financial losses due to repeat breeding syndrome (RBS), a significant reproductive disease in dairy cattle. For a very long time, repeat breeding has been regarded as one of the most critical reproductive issues in cattle. The objective of this study is to investigate the frequency and identify the risk factors related to repeat breeding in dairy cows in the Bogura district of Bangladesh. Additionally, the study aims to assess the influence of repeat breeding on reproductive performance in this population. This study collected indigenous and crossbred 179 cow's data using a pre-structured questionnaire. The cows that needed more than three consecutive inseminations to conceive were considered repeat breeders, and those that needed ≤3 inseminations were regular cyclic cows. The incidence rate of RBS in this study was 33.50%. In BCS 2.5 to 3.0, the incidence rate was significantly higher (58.30%) in repeat breeders than in others. Cows with &lt; 5-litre average daily milk production and reared in intensive farming systems with moderate to poor levels of hygienic management have a significant (p&lt;0.005) effect of repeat breeding syndrome. Different reproductive diseases have a significant (p&lt;0.001) effect on the conception rate of cows. Stillbirth (77.87%) followed by fetal death (76.47%) were recorded as major reproductive obstacles in repeat breeding, whereas pyometra (71.43%), followed by abortion (66.67%), dystocia (70.00%) and endometritis (57.14%) were the major recorded complications in repeat breeders. The rate of conception would go up if cows had optimal BCS, good hygiene and management practices were used, and farmers were trained on how to manage cattle reproduction. This would lower the repeat breeding syndrome.