Rapid Test Kit Research Articles

An Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in a Garment Factory near the Thailand–Myanmar Border, Tak Province, Thailand, August–September 2021

On 16 Sep 2021, Thailand's Division of Epidemiology, was notified of an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a garment factory in Tak Province. An outbreak investigation was conducted to determine epidemiological characteristics of cases, identify risk factors associated with infection, and recommend appropriate preventive measures. A review of COVID-19 surveillance data and outbreak reports was performed. An active case finding was conducted among the factory workers. We interviewed the manager and workers of the factory and performed an environmental observation and conducted a case-control study. Logistic regression models were employed. Of 242 workers tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 by rapid antigen test kit, 90 (37.2%) were found positive. The attack rate was highest in the sewing department (47.4%) and among female workers (53.8%). The prevalence of asymptomatic infection was 15.6%. One case with pneumonia was found and there were no deaths. Working in the sewing department was a significant risk factor [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–9.79] while mask wearing [adjusted OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.14–0.82] was a protective factor. Overcrowding and poorly ventilated conditions were observed in the workplace. Our investigation confirmed a COVID-19 outbreak in a garment factory. Reorienting the environment and strengthening individual protective measures, such as mandatory mask wearing and physical distancing amongst the workers, are recommended.

Homogeneous One-Step Immunoassay Based on Switching Peptides for Detection of the Influenza Virus.

In this study, a homogeneous one-step immunoassay based on switching peptides is presented for the detection of influenza viruses A and B (Inf-A and Inf-B, respectively). The one-step immunoassay represents an immunoassay method that does not involve any washing steps, only treatment of the sample. In this method, fluorescence-labeled switching peptides quantitatively dissociate from the antigen-binding site of immunoglobulin G (IgG). In particular, the one-step immunoassay based on soluble detection antibodies with switching peptides is called a homogeneous one-step immunoassay. The immunoassay developed uses switching peptides labeled with two types of fluorescence dyes (FAM and TAMRA) and detection antibodies labeled with two types of fluorescence quenchers (TQ2 for FAM and TQ3 for TAMRA). The optimal switching peptides for the detection of Inf-A and Inf-B have been selected as L1-peptide and H2-peptide. The interactions between the four kinds of switching peptides and IgG have been analyzed using computational docking simulation and SPR biosensor. The location of labeling for the fluorescence quenchers has been determined based on the distance between the fluorescence dyes of the switching peptides and the fluorescence quenchers, calculated on the basis of the efficiency of fluorescence quenching, using the Förster equation. To demonstrate the feasibility of the one-step immunoassay, binding constants (KD) have been calculated for detection antibodies against Inf-A and Inf-B with target antigens (Inf-A and Inf-B) and switching peptides (L1- and H2-peptides), using an isotherm model. The immunoassay has been demonstrated to be feasible using antigens as well as real samples of Inf-A and Inf-B with a critical cycle number (Ct). The immunoassay has also been compared to other commercially available rapid test kits for Inf-A and Inf-B and found to be far more sensitive for detection of Inf-A and Inf-B over the entire detection range.

Serological Pattern of Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Risk Factors among Infected Individuals in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Hepatitis B virus infection is a serious global public health challenge that affects more than two billion people worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the serological pattern of HBV infection in HBV infected patients in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the serological pattern of hepatitis B infection in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. This was a comparative cross sectional study carried out on 260 hepatitis B patients and blood donors attending hepatitis B clinics, and blood banks in Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Military Hospital, Port Harcourt, and University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Choba. The study involved the use of hepatitis B panel assay, measurement of prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection in Port Harcourt, assessment of hepatitis B serological markers in all subjects, determination of the presence and prevalence of occult HBV among participants. HBV 5-parameter (panel) Rapid Test kit was used to assess HBV serological markers. Standard operation procedure, good laboratory practice, External/Internal Quality Control were used accordingly and Quality Assurance ensued. 84.2% participants were males, 15.8% females aged between 19 and 65 years, Mean ±SD age 30.57±9.70 years, Participants from 20 states, South-South, South-East, and other Geo-political Zones of Nigeria, resident in the cosmopolitan city of Port Harcourt were enrolled. Result obtained showed serological markers among test subjects as 77.3% HBsAg, 43.97% HBsAb, 48.94% HBcAg, 36.17% HBcAb, and 46.81% HBeAg. Grouping of HBV panel assay result was HBV positive 1 (Occult HBV) 7.8% (n=11), HBV positive 2 73.76% (n=104), HBV positive 3 – (occult HBV post treatment) 14.18% (n=20), HBV positive 4 4.26% (n=6). All five serological markers of HBV in infected patients in PHC are evident in significant proportions indicating real infections at different stages of disease manifestation. Mass screening for HBV infection is recommended for our populace to check spread.

Clinical evaluation of a rapid antibody test kit “iFinDx COVID-19 IgM/IgG” for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV2 infection

The disease COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 that led to serious health problems since late 2019, and WHO announced as pandemic. The only diagnostic strategy available during pandemic was RT PCR used as the gold standard method, due to its high throughput procedure and high cost, the screening of patients would be difficult. Hence the antigen and antibody detecting rapid diagnostic kits were developed, that can be used as the point of care testing. The assessment of iFInDx COVID-19 IgM/IgG test kit was evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic kit with a total samples of 427 compared with ELISA and RT PCR method.

Diagnostic Accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Antigen Self-Test in Comparison to Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction.

BackgroundCurrently, the rapid antigen test (RAT) and reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) are considered the main stakeholders in COVID-19 diagnosis. In RT–PCR, any of at least 2 evolutionary conserved genes (RdRP, E-, N-, ORF1ab gene) and S-gene of SARS-CoV-2 are endorsed, and in RAT, the nucleocapsid antigen (N-Ag) of SARS-CoV-2 is considered due to its stability and fewer chances of mutation effects. In the present work, we evaluated the performance of the AG-Q COVID-19 N-Ag self-test kit and conducted a validation study in comparison with the RT–PCR.MethodsAG-Q COVID-19 N-Ag rapid test kit is an Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) approved product developed and marketed by Agappe Diagnostics Limited. The RT–PCR assay was performed with a COVIPATH COVID-19 RT–PCR kit from Thermo Fisher Scientific.ResultsWe observed 19 false-negative results in antigen self-tests, including samples of threshold cycle (Ct) values 22/22 (N-gene/ORF1ab-gene) in RT–PCR, indicating inadequate sampling by the patients in self-tests, leading to false-negative results and increased chances of the disease spreading. Based on the RT–PCR Ct value vs antigen self-test comparison, it is evident that proper sampling is crucial in performing antigen self-tests. Also, there were weak positive results in antigen self-tests with a Ct value of 18/19 in RT–PCR.ConclusionsAlthough the sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy offered by the AG-Q COVID-19 N-Antigen self-test in comparison with RT–PCR fulfills the ICMR tenets for RAT, this study recommends the laboratory/hospital-based RAT execution would be appropriate, rather than the self-test.

Analytical sensitivity of the Rapid Antigen Test kits for detection of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant BA.2 sublineage.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) Omicron was classified as a variant of concern in November 2021. The sublineage BA.2 spreads rapidly worldwide. Currently, there is a lack of data for the parallel comparison of Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) Kits to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron BA.2. We evaluated the analytical sensitivity of 12 RAT kits to detect Omicron BA.2 in the present study. Analytical sensitivity was determined by means of the limit of detection (LOD). We prepared a dilution set using a respiratory specimen collected from a COVID‐19 patient infected by Omicron BA.2. The reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction was used as a reference method. The LOD results showed that all 12 RAT kits had comparable analytical sensitivity to detect Omicron BA.2. The RAT kits selected in the current study may be used for the first‐line screening of the rapid spreading Omicron BA.2.

A colorimetric electronic tongue based on bi-functionalized AuNPs for fingerprint detection of cancer markers

Considering the extensive efforts made to fabricate rapid test kits for detection of cancer markers, this study introduces a paper based electronic tongue based on colorimetric methods, providing a naked eye response for cancer antigens 125, 15–3, 19.9 and carcinoembryonic (CEA). The developed sensor consisted of bi-functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with different sizes, surface electrical charge, and functional groups, involving various electrostatic, covalent, H-bonding or nucleophilic interactions with the antigens. Due to the different structures of antigens, the NP’s behavior was unique for each analyte. The sensor responses were collected after 3 min because of the aggregation of NPs. According to discrimination analysis, the serum with cancer markers was distinct from normal samples. These antigens were quantified by detection limits less than of 10.0 U/ mL for CA 125, CEA and CA 19.9, and 15.0 U/mL for CA 15-3. Interestingly, the colorimetric sensor was capable of simultaneous determination of four cancer markers with a prediction error rate of less than 6.0 U/mL. Based on the reliable responses obtained in the practical analysis, the proposed method can be used as a valid way for the diagnosis, progression and even monitoring the treatment process of a specific type of cancer.

Seroprevalence of COVID-19 and Psychological Distress among Front Liners at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah Campus during the Third Wave of COVID-19.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic struck the globe and disrupted various aspects of psychological wellbeing, more so in frontline workers. Research on assessing the seroprevalence of COVID-19 has been scarce; in addition, there are limited studies assessing the association between the seroprevalence of COVID-19 and psychological distress. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of COVID-19 and the prevalence of psychological distress and to determine whether sociodemographic variables, occupational information variables, coping styles, and psychological processes might contribute to the development of psychological distress. A cross-sectional study involving 168 Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) front liners was carried out to assess these issues. The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was employed to assess psychological distress, together with the COVID-19 Rapid Test Kit Antibody (RTK Ab) and a series of questionnaires, including a sociodemographic and occupational information questionnaire, the Balanced Index of Psychological Mindedness (BIPM) questionnaire, the Mindfulness Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS), the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II), and the Brief COPE questionnaire. The results demonstrated a seroprevalence of COVID-19 at 8.3% (95% CI = 5.0–14.0). Non-healthcare workers (HCWs) had a higher COVID-19 prevalence. Meanwhile, the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among front liners was low (3.0%, 3.6%, and 1.2%, respectively). Younger people (aged 30 years old or less) and HCWs had a higher prevalence of psychological distress; being a HCW was significantly associated with a higher level of anxiety. Dysfunctional coping and psychological inflexibility were consistently found to be predictors for higher levels of the three psychological distress variables. This study suggested some alternatives that could be explored by mental health providers to address mental health issues among front liners at universities.

Malaria Endemicity in the Rural Communities of Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

Malaria remains a global health threat. Approximately 97% of the population is at risk in sub-Saharan countries, particularly Nigeria. This study compared the performance of 2 diagnostic methods in assessing malaria endemicity in the rural communities of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A total of 1,140 study participants were screened for malaria parasite using Rapid Diagnostic Test kits (RDT) in the field, while thick and thin films for microscopy were examined in the laboratory. Our result showed that malaria prevalence was 56.8 by RDT and 38.6% by microscopic test. Age group under 10 years had the highest prevalence of 28.9% (RDT) and 23.6% (microscopy), respectively. The highest prevalence of 19.5% by RDT was recorded in Onicha Local Government Area, while the highest prevalence of 13.4% with microscopy was recorded in Ezza North Local Government Area. The sensitivity and specificity of microscopic examination were both 100%, while those of RDT were 95.5% and 75.9%, respectively.

Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Seromarkers in Female Sex Workers in Enugu State, Nigeria

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a sexually transmitted virus with a wide range of terminal complications. As such, female sex workers (FSWs) are an important group in the epidemiology of the virus. This study was aimed at evaluating the seroprevalence of HBV markers and the exposure rate of the virus among FSWs in Enugu State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was carried out among brothel-based FSWs, involving 200 participants recruited using a consecutive sampling method. Blood specimens were collected and tested for HBV markers using chromatographic immunoassay rapid test kits. Additional information was obtained through the administration of a well-structured pre-tested questionnaire. Data were entered into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 and analyzed using the Descriptive Statistics and Chi-Square test in SPSS. Out of the 200 sampled individuals, 82(41%) tested positive for at least one seromarker, with 44(22%) showing evidence of natural infection and 38(19%) indicating a vaccine response. Hepatitis B core antibody (total anti-HBc) was present in 42(21%) of the participants, while 8(4%) had hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), which is indicative of current infection. This study revealed intermediate prevalence, a high exposure rate and a low vaccination rate among the study population. There is a need for more effective intervention strategies among FSWs in the study area.

Spatial Analysis on Supply and Demand of Adult Surgical Masks in Taipei Metropolitan Areas in the Early Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

This study aimed to assess the gap between the supply and demand of adult surgical masks under limited resources. Owing to the implementation of the real-name mask rationing system, the historical inventory data of aggregated mask consumption in a pharmacy during the early period of the COVID-19 outbreak (April and May 2020) in Taiwan were analyzed for supply-side analysis. We applied the Voronoi diagram and areal interpolation methods to delineate the average supply of customer counts from a pharmacy to a village (administrative level). On the other hand, the expected number of demand counts was estimated from the population data. The relative risk (RR) of supply, which is the average number of adults served per day divided by the expected number in a village, was modeled under a Bayesian hierarchical framework, including Poisson, negative binomial, Poisson spatial, and negative binomial spatial models. We observed that the number of pharmacies in a village is associated with an increasing supply, whereas the median annual per capita income of the village has an inverse relationship. Regarding land use percentages, percentages of the residential and the mixed areas in a village are negatively associated, while the school area percentage is positively associated with the supply in the Poisson spatial model. The corresponding uncertainty measurement: villages where the probability exceeds the risk of undersupply, that is, Pr (RR < 1), were also identified. The findings of the study may help health authorities to evaluate the spatial allocation of anti-epidemic resources, such as masks and rapid test kits, in small areas while identifying priority areas with the suspicion of undersupply in the beginning stages of outbreaks.

HCV Self-Testing to Expand Testing: A Pilot Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China.

BackgroundHepatitis C virus self-testing (HCVST) may increase test uptake especially among marginalized key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM). We conducted an observational study to assess the usability, acceptability and feasibility of HCVST among MSM in China.MethodsAn observational study with convenience sampling was performed among MSM in Guangzhou, China in 2019. The OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test kits were used in this study. Participants performed all 12 HCVST steps and interpreted the results in the presence of a trained observer. Usability was defined as the number and percentage of participants who completed all testing steps correctly without assistance and interpreted the results correctly. Inter-reader concordance was calculated as the percentage agreement between the results interpreted by the participant and those interpreted by a trained staff member. The same process was used to estimate inter-operator agreement between the self-testing and professional use test results. Acceptability was assessed using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire.ResultsAmong 100 participants with median age 27 (interquartile range 23–30) years, 4% reported prior history of HCV testing, 41% reported using blood-based HIV self-testing in the past, 54% (95%CI: 43.7–64.0%) completed all self-testing steps correctly without assistance and interpreted the results correctly. Both the inter-reader and inter-operator concordance were excellent at 97% (95%CI: 91.5–99.4%) and 98% (95%CI: 93.0–99.8%), respectively. The majority rated the HCVST process as very easy (52%, 95%CI: 41.8–62.1%) or easy (41%, 95%CI: 31.3–51.3%), 76% (95%CI: 66.4–84.0%) were willing to use HCVST again, and 75% (95%CI: 65.3–83.1%) would recommend it to their family and friends.ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate that oral fluid HCVST has high usability and acceptability among Chinese MSM. More implementation research is needed to plan how best to position and scale-up HCVST alongside other facility-and community-based testing approaches and ensure data linkage into health systems.

Blood and urinary parasites and associated risk factors in a rural community in Abia State, Nigeria

The environment, climate, social behaviour, and economic factors make developing countries vulnerable to parasitic infections. A cross-sectional study was conducted (Dec 2017-May 2018) to determine the prevalence of blood and urine parasites in Obizi, Amakama-Olokoro, a rural community in Umuahia South LGA, Abia State. Blood and urine samples were collected from 284 respondents. Sample analyses were done using Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits and microscopy for blood and centrifugal sedimentation method for urine. Socio-demographic data and risk factors were collected with structured questionnaires. Statistical analysis was done using the Pearson’s Chi-square, with the PAST Statistical package. The results showed an overall blood parasitic prevalence of 32.4%. Plasmodium falciparum recorded the highest prevalence of 28.17% by RDT and 30.6% by microscopy. Trypanosoma brucei gambiense occurred as a mixed infection (1.8%). Schistosoma haematobium had a prevalence of 3.9%. Socio-demographic data showed there were more females (67.3%); more persons in the age group 61-70 years (31.0%) and more farmers (38.0%) in the studied population. More females were infected with Plasmodium falciparum (34.6%) while more males were infected with Schistosoma haematobium (8.6%) P. falciparum occurred in all the age groups. S. haematobium occurred only in three age groups with the highest prevalence found in the age group (11-20) years (26.9%). Malaria infection was higher in those who did not use ITNs (37.1%). Some reasons given for the non-usage of ITNs were high cost/non-availability and discomfort. Farming activities and swimming have been recognized as risk factors to the acquisition of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Schistosoma haematobium, respectively. Plasmodium falciparum, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Schistosoma haematobium still pose a serious health threat to the community. Eliminating vector breeding sites, the use of ITNs and changes in social behaviours will help reduce blood and urinary parasites and ensure a healthier and economically viable community.

Diagnostic performance of a Rapid Test Kit for white spot syndrome virus (WSSV)

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is a highly infectious and influential pathogen that causes mass mortality. Particularly, this virus has had the most severe impact on global shrimp culture over the past 30 years. There are currently no vaccines or treatments for WSSV, and therefore accurate diagnosis strategies are critical for the management of shrimp farms. In this study, a commercial WSSV lateral flow immunoassay (WSSV RP Rapid Test Kit, Innocreate Bioscience Co., Ltd., Taiwan) can be used to assess the level of WSSV infection in shrimp farms was tested. Sensitivity analyses indicated that 0.4 ng of a recombinant target protein could be reliably detected after 15 min. Additionally, this kit did not return false-positive reactions when testing samples infected with PirABVP-producing strain of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (the causative agent of acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease, AHPND), haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHHNV), and Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP). Furthermore, the accuracy and sensitivity of our proposed procedure were assessed using the OIE TaqMan real-time PCR method. Upon analyzing 231 samples, our WSSV immunoassay achieved a sensitivity and specificity of 99.21% and 100%, respectively. Collectively, our findings demonstrated the convenience, stability, sensitivity, and specificity of the WSSV RP Rapid Test Kit, and therefore this kit can be widely used in aquaculture farms to assist disease management.

Seroprevalence and characteristics of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in workers with non-specific disease symptoms

BackgroundThe population-based serosurveys are essential for estimating Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) burden and monitoring the progression of this pandemic. We aimed to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and potential predictors of seropositivity in the Pakistani population.MethodologyThis population-based seroprevalence study includes consenting subjects from the workplaces (factories, corporates, restaurants, media houses, schools, banks, and hospitals) located in the urban areas of Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta. We analyzed each subject's serum sample for SARS-CoV-2-IgM and/or IgG antibodies using UNIPER IgG/IgM Rapid COVID-19 Testing Kit. The subject's demographics, exposure history, and symptoms experienced (in last 7 days) were also obtained. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0.ResultsThe overall seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 16.0% (2810/17,764). The total antibody seropositivity was higher in males than females (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.110–1.340). The symptomatic subjects had 2.18 times higher odds of IgG seropositivity while 1.2 times for IgM seropositivity than the asymptomatic subjects. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that the odds of SARS-CoV-2 total antibody seroprevalence were affected by the number of dependents (OR = 1.077; 95% CI 1.054–1.099), apparent symptomology (OR = 1.288; 95% CI 1.011–1.643), close unprotected contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19 (OR 2.470; 95% CI 2.164–2.819), traveling history (last 14 days) (OR = 1.537; 95% CI 1.234–1.914) and proximity with someone who traveled (OR = 1.534; 95% CI 1.241–1.896).ConclusionWe found a reasonable seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the studied population. Several factors like the number of dependents, apparent symptoms, close unprotected contact with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19, traveling history, and proximity with someone who traveled are associated with increased odds of SARS-CoV-2 antibody seropositivity.

A self-pressure-driven blood plasma-separation device for point-of-care diagnostics

We aimed to develop a portable, simple-to-use, and self-pressure-driven blood plasma-separation device that can be combined with rapid diagnostic test kits. This simple, disposable, and electrical equipment-free apparatus has been designed to separate plasma from a few microliters of blood with only hand-powered operation. The refined plasma sample is then delivered to multiple lateral flow assay kits directly connected to the device for the detection of various serological markers. The required time for all steps was just 1 min. We validated the device through multifaceted experiments. The developed multifunctional device enables to perform all blood test steps of diagnostic medical examination at the point-of-care.

Malaria rapid diagnostic tests for the case management of febrile children in Nigerian primary healthcare settings: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMalaria has been identified as a significant public health burden, exhibiting a high risk of death and morbidity. In sub-Saharan Africa, most young children attending primary healthcare facilities are commonly diagnosed with malaria. Thus, introduction of malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) kits and effective antimalarials has substantially improved the management of malaria cases. However, healthcare worker confidence and adherence to procedures dependent on malaria test results remain variable in high-burden settings due to lacking alternative point-of-care tests to diagnose other causes of fever. In this study, we compared the results of malaria screenings using mRDT and microscopy in febrile children presenting at a primary health facility.MethodsThis study was conducted at a primary health center in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. Children with fever were assessed for malaria by health staff and, where indicated, screened using Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein-2 mRDT kits. Blood samples were collected on slides for microscopy and in hematocrit tubes for hematocrit determination simultaneously, whereas the mRDT test was done by routine health staff. Children found positive for malaria via mRDT were diagnosed as uncomplicated malaria cases and treated as outpatients using artemether-lumefantrine. Blood slides were read independently by two trained microscopists blinded to the mRDT results. The parasite densities were defined as average counts by both microscopists. We then assessed the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of mRDT for the diagnosis of malaria.ResultsWe compared the test results of 250 febrile children who are under 15 years old. The test positivity rates were 93.6% (234/250) and 97.2% (243/250) using microscopy and rapid RDTs, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of mRDT compared to microscopy were 100.0% and 43.8%, respectively, with a positive predictive value of 96.3% (95% CI 93.1–98.3). The hematocrit value was <30% in 64% of the children.ConclusionAs per our findings, mRDTs have correctly detected infections in febrile children. Healthcare workers and caregivers should be encouraged to act in accordance with the test results by means of regular feedback on the quality of mRDTs in use in malaria case management.

Evaluation of bovine visual ELISA test for detection of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins in early pregnancy diagnosis in goats

Pregnancy diagnosis is the primary factor for improving reproductive performance and high economic efficiency in herds. Early pregnancy diagnosis, on the other hand, allows livestock to optimise production with greater reproductive performance and correct it with timely intervention. In the present study, it was aimed to investigate the effectiveness and reliability of the commercial rapid visual pregnancy test kit prepared for the detection of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins from blood serum in early pregnancy diagnosis in goats. Healthy and fertile, 3–5 years old 150 Damascus goats were used in the study. Oestrous synchronisation was applied to the goats between the anoestrous period and the onset of the transition period. Goats in oestrous were bred naturally. Blood samples were taken from the goats on the 28th day after their breeding. Progesterone measurement and rapid visual pregnancy test were performed from the blood samples taken. For the diagnosis of pregnancy, transabdominal ultrasonography was applied to the goats 50 days after the breeding. Ultrasonographic examination results were used as reference value. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value ratios of serum progesterone measurement and visual PAG-ELISA kit were determined as 88.23%, 91.46%, 89.55%, 90.36% and 94.12%, 80.49%, 80%, 94.29%, respectively. In the study, it was ascertained that progesterone concentration results were in good agreement with ultrasonography results (kappa=0.798), and visual PAG-ELISA results were in good agreement with ultrasonography results (kappa = 0.735). Moreover, the concordance of progesterone concentration results with visual PAG-ELISA results was also found to be excellent (kappa = 0.828). The ability to accurately diagnose serum progesterone measurement and visual PAG-ELISA kit was found to be 90% and 86.67%, respectively. In conclusion, it can be accepted that the visual PAG-ELISA test in goats is useful in distinguishing pregnant from non-pregnant animals in the early stages of pregnancy. It can be said that in practice it can be used alone or in combination with other methods.

Iodine concentration level of iodized dietary salt and its associated factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BackgroundIodine deficiency disorder (IDD) is a major public health problem in Ethiopia. The availability of adequate iodized dietary salt at the household level is immensely important. Hence, this review aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of adequate iodine concentration level of iodized dietary salt at the household level and its associated factors in Ethiopia.MethodsWe searched the literature using electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Embase) and gray literature from January 9, 2022, to February 25, 2022. The rapid test kit was used to measure the adequacy of iodine level of dietary salt. The quality of studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool. Heterogeneity between studies was checked using I2 test statistics and publication bias was checked using funnel plot and Egger’s statistical test at a 5% significance level. A random-effects model was employed to estimate the pooled prevalence of the outcome variable and its determinants in Ethiopia.ResultsThe search identified 149 studies of which 18 studies were included with a total of 10,556 participants. The pooled prevalence of adequate iodine levels of iodized salt in Ethiopia was 44.37% (95% CI: 35.85-52.88). Women who had formal education (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.99 (95% CI: 1.47–2.48)), good knowledge of women (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.36–3.36), packed iodized salt (AOR = 3.85 (95% CI: 1.88–7.87)) and storage of iodized salt at home for less than 2 months (AOR = 2.66 (95% CI: 2.11–3.35) were the significant factors.ConclusionThis review suggests that the pooled prevalence of adequate iodine levels was low. Our finding highlights the need for considering the educational status, knowledge, and duration of salt storage to enhance the prevalence of adequate levels of iodized salt at the national level.

Prevalence of Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi and Dirofilaria immitis in Sivas Stray and Shelter Dogs

Aim: In this study, it was aimed to investigate the prevalence of vector-transportable Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi and Dirofilaria immitis in dogs in Sivas province. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 100 dogs. Breed, age and sexes of dogs were determined and physical examinations were performed and serum samples were collected for the diagnosis of the diseases. The commercial rapid test kit SNAP* 4DX* Plus (IDEXX Laboratories) was used for the detection of Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi and Dirofilaria immitis in dogs. Results: In this study, it was determined that 1% of 100 dogs examined were Ehrlichia canis and 2% of them were seropositive to Dirofilaria immitis, while Borrelia burgdorferi seropositive animals were not detected. Conclusion: As a result, it was determined that Ehrlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi and Dirofilaria immitis, which can be transmitted to dogs by vectors, were observed at low rates in Sivas province. However, at the same time, necessary protective measures should be taken against these diseases that can be transmitted by vectors in this region.