1
|
Fernandez-Baca MV, Castellanos-Gonzalez A, Ore RA, Alccacontor-Munoz JL, Hoban C, Castro CA, Tanabe MB, Morales ML, Ortiz P, White AC, Cabada MM. A PCR Test Using the Mini-PCR Platform and Simplified Product Detection Methods Is Highly Sensitive and Specific to Detect Fasciola hepatica DNA Mixed in Human Stool, Snail Tissue, and Water DNA Specimens. Pathogens 2024; 13:440. [PMID: 38921738 PMCID: PMC11206539 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13060440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Fasciola hepatica has a complex lifecycle with multiple intermediate and definitive hosts and influenced by environmental factors. The disease causes significant morbidity in children and its prevalent worldwide. There is lack of data about distribution and burden of the disease in endemic regions, owing to poor efficacy of the different diagnostic methods used. A novel PCR-based test was developed by using a portable mini-PCR® platform to detect Fasciola sp. DNA and interpret the results via a fluorescence viewer and smartphone image analyzer application. Human stool, snail tissue, and water samples were used to extract DNA. Primers targeting the ITS-1 of the 18S rDNA gene of Fasciola sp. were used. The limit of detection of the mini-PCR test was 1 fg/μL for DNA samples diluted in water, 10 fg/μL for Fasciola/snail DNA scramble, and 100 fg/μL for Fasciola/stool DNA scramble. The product detection by agarose gel, direct visualization, and image analyses showed the same sensitivity. The Fh mini-PCR had a sensitivity and specificity equivalent to real-time PCR using the same specimens. Testing was also done on infected human stool and snail tissue successfully. These experiments demonstrated that Fh mini-PCR is as sensitive and specific as real time PCR but without the use of expensive equipment and laboratory facilities. Further testing of multiple specimens with natural infection will provide evidence for feasibility of deployment to resource constrained laboratories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha V. Fernandez-Baca
- Sede Cusco—Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru (R.A.O.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Alejandro Castellanos-Gonzalez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.C.-G.); (M.B.T.)
| | - Rodrigo A. Ore
- Sede Cusco—Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru (R.A.O.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Jose L. Alccacontor-Munoz
- Sede Cusco—Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru (R.A.O.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Cristian Hoban
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca, Cajamarca 06003, Peru; (C.H.); (P.O.)
| | - Carol A. Castro
- Sede Cusco—Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru (R.A.O.); (M.L.M.)
| | - Melinda B. Tanabe
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.C.-G.); (M.B.T.)
| | - Maria L. Morales
- Sede Cusco—Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru (R.A.O.); (M.L.M.)
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia-University of Texas Medical Branch Collaborative Research Center, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru
| | - Pedro Ortiz
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca, Cajamarca 06003, Peru; (C.H.); (P.O.)
| | - A. Clinton White
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.C.-G.); (M.B.T.)
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia-University of Texas Medical Branch Collaborative Research Center, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru
| | - Miguel M. Cabada
- Sede Cusco—Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru (R.A.O.); (M.L.M.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.C.-G.); (M.B.T.)
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia-University of Texas Medical Branch Collaborative Research Center, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Cusco 08002, Peru
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Manjate A, Sergon G, Kenga D, Golparian D, Tyulenev Y, Loquilha O, Mausse F, Guschin A, Langa JC, Passanduca A, Sacarlal J, Unemo M. Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), associations with sociodemographic and behavioural factors, and assessment of the syndromic management of vaginal discharge in women with urogenital complaints in Mozambique. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1323926. [PMID: 38706519 PMCID: PMC11067503 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1323926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
In Mozambique, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are estimated to be prevalent, but diagnosis and treatment of curable STIs rely only on syndromic management. We examined the prevalence of four non-viral STIs and HIV-1/2, based on etiological diagnosis, associations with sociodemographic and behavioural factors, and the STI diagnostic accuracy of the vaginal discharge syndromic management in women with urogenital complaints in Maputo, Mozambique. A cross-sectional study was performed in Maputo, Mozambique, February 2018-January 2019, enrolling 924 women of reproductive age with urogenital complaints. Endocervical/vaginal swabs were sampled and chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis and Mycoplasma genitalium infections were diagnosed using a multiplex real-time PCR (AmpliSens; InterLabServices). Serological testing was performed for HIV-1/2. A structured questionnaire collected metadata. All data were analyzed in STATA/IC 12.1 using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and logistic regression model. About 40% of the women were less than 24 years old, 50.8% were single, 62.1% had their sexual debut between 12 and 17 years of age, and the main complaint was vaginal discharge syndrome (85%). The prevalence of chlamydia was 15.5%, trichomoniasis 12.1%, gonorrhoea 4.0%, M. genitalium 2.1%, and HIV-1/2 22.3%. The vaginal discharge syndrome flowchart had a sensitivity of 73.0%-82.5% and a specificity of 14%-15% for the detection of any individual non-viral STI in women with urogenital complaints. In total, 19.2% of the symptomatic women with chlamydia, trichomoniasis or gonorrhoea would not be detected and accordingly treated using the vaginal discharge syndromic management (missed treatment) and 70.0% of the women would be treated despite not being infected with any of these three STIs (overtreatment). In conclusion, a high prevalence of especially chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and HIV-1/2 was found in women of childbearing age with urogenital complaints in Maputo, Mozambique. Syndromic management of vaginal discharge revealed low accuracy in the detection of STIs in symptomatic women, especially low specificity, which resulted in under-treatment of STI-positive cases and incorrect or over-treatment of women with urogenital complaints, many of whom were negative for all the non-viral STIs. Etiological diagnosis is imperative for effective management of STIs in symptomatic and asymptomatic women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Manjate
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Departament de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Gladys Sergon
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Darlenne Kenga
- Departament de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Daniel Golparian
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Yuriy Tyulenev
- Department of Healthcare, Moscow Scientific and Practical Center of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Osvaldo Loquilha
- Departamento de Matemática e Informática, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Fabião Mausse
- Departament de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Alexander Guschin
- Department of Healthcare, Moscow Scientific and Practical Center of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology, Moscow, Russia
| | - José Carlos Langa
- Departament de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Alfeu Passanduca
- Departament de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Jahit Sacarlal
- Departament de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Magnus Unemo
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
- Institute for Global Health, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Li X, Martins AL. Leagility in the healthcare research: a systematic review. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:307. [PMID: 38454430 PMCID: PMC10921567 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10771-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expenditure of healthcare services has been growing over the past decades. Lean and agile are two popular paradigms that could potentially contain cost and improve proficiency of the healthcare system. However no systematic review was found on leagilty in the healthcare research. This study aims at synthesizing the extant literature of leagility in the healthcare area to consolidate its potential and identify research gaps for future study in the field. METHODS A systematic literature review is conducted following the PRISMA checklist approach. Studies were searched in multiple databases. The selection of articles was executed by dual-scanning of two researchers to ensure quality of data and relevance to the topic. Scientific articles published between January 1999 and November 2023 concerning leagile healthcare are analysed using Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer (version 1.6.18). RESULTS Out of 270 articles identified from the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 24 were included in the review. A total of 11 target areas were identified in leagility applications in healthcare. Success and limiting factors of leagile healthcare were classified into macro and micro aspects and further categorized into six dimensions: policy, organization, human resources, marketing, operation management and technology. Moreover, four research gaps were revealed and suggestions were provided for future study. CONCLUSION Leagility in the healthcare context is still being in its infancy. Few empirical validation was found in leagile healthcare literature. Further exploration into the application of theory in various sectors under the scope of healthcare is appealed for. Standardization and modularization, leadership support, skillfulness of professionals and staff training are the factors most frequently mentioned for a successful implementation of leagility in the healthcare sector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Li
- Business Research Unit (BRU-IUL), ISCTE-University Institute of Lisbon, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Department of Medical Education, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Ana Lúcia Martins
- Business Research Unit (BRU-IUL), ISCTE-University Institute of Lisbon, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1649-026, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Oduoye MO, Fatima E, Muzammil MA, Dave T, Irfan H, Fariha FNU, Marbell A, Ubechu SC, Scott GY, Elebesunu EE. Impacts of the advancement in artificial intelligence on laboratory medicine in low- and middle-income countries: Challenges and recommendations-A literature review. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e1794. [PMID: 38186931 PMCID: PMC10766873 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in laboratory medicine, promising significant advancements in healthcare delivery. This study explores the potential impact of AI on diagnostics and patient management within the context of laboratory medicine, with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods In writing this article, we conducted a thorough search of databases such as PubMed, ResearchGate, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar within 20 years. The study examines AI's capabilities, including learning, reasoning, and decision-making, mirroring human cognitive processes. It highlights AI's adeptness at processing vast data sets, identifying patterns, and expediting the extraction of actionable insights, particularly in medical imaging interpretation and laboratory test data analysis. The research emphasizes the potential benefits of AI in early disease detection, therapeutic interventions, and personalized treatment strategies. Results In the realm of laboratory medicine, AI demonstrates remarkable precision in interpreting medical images such as radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Its predictive analytical capabilities extend to forecasting patient trajectories and informing personalized treatment strategies using comprehensive data sets comprising clinical outcomes, patient records, and laboratory results. The study underscores the significance of AI in addressing healthcare challenges, especially in resource-constrained LMICs. Conclusion While acknowledging the profound impact of AI on laboratory medicine in LMICs, the study recognizes challenges such as inadequate data availability, digital infrastructure deficiencies, and ethical considerations. Successful implementation necessitates substantial investments in digital infrastructure, the establishment of data-sharing networks, and the formulation of regulatory frameworks. The study concludes that collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including international organizations, governments, and nongovernmental entities, are crucial for overcoming obstacles and responsibly integrating AI into laboratory medicine in LMICs. A comprehensive, coordinated approach is essential for realizing AI's transformative potential and advancing health care in LMICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eeshal Fatima
- Services Institute of Medical SciencesLahorePakistan
| | | | - Tirth Dave
- Bukovinian State Medical UniversityChernivtsiUkraine
| | - Hamza Irfan
- Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Medical and Dental CollegeLahorePakistan
| | | | | | | | - Godfred Yawson Scott
- Department of Medical DiagnosticsKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fuss CG, Msami K, Kahesa C, Mwaiselage J, Gordon A, Sohler N, Mattick LJ, Soliman AS. The impact of in-house pathology services on downstaging cervical cancer in Tanzania over an 18-year period. Cancer Causes Control 2024; 35:93-101. [PMID: 37574489 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-023-01768-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Reducing time between cancer screening, diagnosis, and initiation of treatment is best achieved when services are available in the same hospital. Yet, comprehensive cancer centers are typically unavailable in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where resources are limited and services scattered. This study explored the impact of establishing an in-house pathology laboratory at the largest public cancer hospital in Tanzania on the downstaging of cervical cancer. METHODS We examined clinical datasets of 8,322 cervical cancer patients treated at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI). The first period included patients treated from 2002 to 2016, before establishment of the pathology laboratory at ORCI; the second period (post-pathology establishment) included data from 2017 to 2020. Logistic regression analysis evaluated the impact of the pathology laboratory on stage of cervical cancer diagnosis. RESULTS Patients treated during the post-pathology period were more likely to be clinically diagnosed at earlier disease stages compared to patients in the pre-pathology period (pre-pathology population diagnosed at early disease stage: 44.08%; post-pathology population diagnosed at early disease stage: 59.38%, p < 0.001). After adjustment for age, region of residence, and place of biopsy, regression results showed patients diagnosed during the post-pathology period had higher odds of early stage cervical cancer diagnosis than patients in the pre-pathology period (OR 1.35, 95% CI (1.16, 1.57), p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Integrated and comprehensive cancer centers can overcome challenges in delivering expedited cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment. In-house pathology laboratories play an important role in facilitating timely diagnosis and rapid treatment of cervical and possibly other cancers in LMICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline G Fuss
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Khadija Msami
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Crispin Kahesa
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Julius Mwaiselage
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Amanda Gordon
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Nancy Sohler
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, 160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY, 10031, USA
| | - Lindsey J Mattick
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Amr S Soliman
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, 160 Convent Avenue, New York, NY, 10031, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ansu-Mensah M, Kuupiel D, Bawontuo V, Ginindza TG. Availability, stock levels and usage of In-vitro diagnostics in the Bono region, Ghana: A cross-sectional study. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2023; 15:e1-e10. [PMID: 37916723 PMCID: PMC10623501 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v15i1.4114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tests play essential roles in diagnosis, surveillance, and disease management in health settings. Nevertheless, implementation challenges may hamper POC test accessibility. This study evaluated the availability and stock levels of the World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified existing in-vitro diagnostics (IVDs) for use in health facilities without laboratories. AIM To evaluate the availability, stock levels, and usage of POC diagnostic tests. SETTING Bono Region, Ghana. METHODS This cross-sectional survey involved 102 randomly selected Community Health-based and Planning Services (CHPS), 12 district health depots, and a regional medical depot. Using a survey tool, data were collected on clinic staffing, availability and stock levels of tests, and funding sources. STATA 17 was employed for data analysis. RESULTS Majority (37.3%) of the respondents were community health nurses, with 4.4 mean years of work experience and 38 working hours per week. Of the 18 existing WHO prequalified POC tests for use at facilities without laboratories, 10 (56%), 2 (11%) and 0 (0%) were found at CHPS, regional, and district depots, respectively. Majority (183 out of 301) stock levels were low. Of the 10 available tests found, 7 scored 111 (36%) of 'high use'. Supply chain management compliance was 5 (31%) out of 16. All CHPS received government funding with 25.5% of them receiving additional donor or internally generated funding. CONCLUSION This study found poor supply chain management compliance, and low availability of POC tests in the Bono Region of Ghana.Contribution: The study outlines POC tests availability and usage in low-resourced setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ansu-Mensah
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; and, Health Economics and HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; and, Clinic, Sunyani Technical University, Sunyani.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Flores-Contreras EA, Carrasco-González JA, Linhares DCL, Corzo CA, Campos-Villalobos JI, Henao-Díaz A, Melchor-Martínez EM, Iqbal HMN, González-González RB, Parra-Saldívar R, González-González E. Emergent Molecular Techniques Applied to the Detection of Porcine Viruses. Vet Sci 2023; 10:609. [PMID: 37888561 PMCID: PMC10610968 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular diagnostic tests have evolved very rapidly in the field of human health, especially with the arrival of the recent pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, the animal sector is constantly neglected, even though accurate detection by molecular tools could represent economic advantages by preventing the spread of viruses. In this regard, the swine industry is of great interest. The main viruses that affect the swine industry are described in this review, including African swine fever virus (ASFV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), and porcine circovirus (PCV), which have been effectively detected by different molecular tools in recent times. Here, we describe the rationale of molecular techniques such as multiplex PCR, isothermal methods (LAMP, NASBA, RPA, and PSR) and novel methods such as CRISPR-Cas and microfluidics platforms. Successful molecular diagnostic developments are presented by highlighting their most important findings. Finally, we describe the barriers that hinder the large-scale development of affordable, accessible, rapid, and easy-to-use molecular diagnostic tests. The evolution of diagnostic techniques is critical to prevent the spread of viruses and the development of viral reservoirs in the swine industry that impact the possible development of future pandemics and the world economy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elda A. Flores-Contreras
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; (E.A.F.-C.); (E.M.M.-M.); (H.M.N.I.)
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | | | - Daniel C. L. Linhares
- Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA;
| | - Cesar A. Corzo
- Veterinary Population Medicine Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55455, USA;
| | | | | | - Elda M. Melchor-Martínez
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; (E.A.F.-C.); (E.M.M.-M.); (H.M.N.I.)
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Hafiz M. N. Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; (E.A.F.-C.); (E.M.M.-M.); (H.M.N.I.)
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Reyna Berenice González-González
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; (E.A.F.-C.); (E.M.M.-M.); (H.M.N.I.)
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Roberto Parra-Saldívar
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; (E.A.F.-C.); (E.M.M.-M.); (H.M.N.I.)
- Institute of Advanced Materials for Sustainable Manufacturing, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Everardo González-González
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey 64849, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; (E.A.F.-C.); (E.M.M.-M.); (H.M.N.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kuupiel D, Cheabu BSN, Yeboah P, Duah J, Addae JK, Ako-Nnubeng IT, Osei FA, Ziblim SD, Mchunu GG, Pillay JD, Bawontuo V. Geographic availability of and physical accessibility to tuberculosis diagnostic tests in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:755. [PMID: 37452305 PMCID: PMC10347710 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09755-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Ghana, tuberculosis (TB) case detection is low (< 34%). Existing scientific evidence suggest access to TB diagnostic tests play an essential role in TB case detection, yet little has been scientifically documented on it in Ghana. This study, therefore, sought to map TB diagnosis sites, and describe the geographic availability and physical accessibility to TB diagnosis in six regions of Ghana to inform scale-up and future placement of TB diagnostic tests. METHODS We assembled the geolocation and attribute data of all health facilities offering TB diagnosis in Upper West Region (UWR), Upper East Region (UER), Ahafo, North-East, Northern, and Savannah regions. QGIS was employed to estimate the distance and travel time to TB diagnosis sites within regions. Travel time estimates were based on assumed motorised tricycle speed of 20 km (km)/hour. RESULTS Of the total 1584 health facilities in the six regions, 86 (5.4%) facilities were providing TB diagnostic testing services. This 86 TB diagnosis sites comprised 56 (65%) microscopy sites, 23 (27%) both microscopy and GeneXpert sites, and 7 (8%) GeneXpert only sites (8%). Of the 86 diagnosis sites, 40 (46%) were in the UER, follow by Northern Region with 16 (19%), 12 (14%) in UWR, 9 (10%) in Ahafo Region, 5 (6%) in North East, and 4 (5%) in Savannah Region. The overall estimated mean distance and travel time to the nearest TB diagnosis site was 23.3 ± 13.8 km and 67.6 ± 42.6 min respectively. Savannah Region recorded the longest estimated mean distance and travel time with 36.1 ± 14.6 km and 108.3 ± 43.9 min, whilst UER recorded the shortest with 10.2 ± 5.8 km and 29.1 ± 17.4 min. Based on a 10 km buffer of settlement areas, an estimated 75 additional TB diagnosis sites will be needed to improve access to TB diagnosis services across the six regions. CONCLUSION This study highlights limited availability of TB diagnosis sites and poor physical accessibility to TB diagnosis sites across five out of the six regions. Targeted implementation of additional TB diagnosis sites is needed to reduce travel distances to ≤ 10 km.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4001 South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Ritson Campus, Durban, 4001 South Africa
| | - Benjamin S. N. Cheabu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Health Quality Programs, Queen’s University, Kingston, K7L3N6 Canada
- Christian Health Association of Ghana, # 21 Jubilee Wells Street Labadi, Accra, Ghana
| | - Peter Yeboah
- Christian Health Association of Ghana, # 21 Jubilee Wells Street Labadi, Accra, Ghana
| | - James Duah
- Christian Health Association of Ghana, # 21 Jubilee Wells Street Labadi, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph K. Addae
- Christian Health Association of Ghana, # 21 Jubilee Wells Street Labadi, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Francis A. Osei
- Christian Health Association of Ghana, # 21 Jubilee Wells Street Labadi, Accra, Ghana
| | - Shamsu-Deen Ziblim
- Department of Population and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Gugu G. Mchunu
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4001 South Africa
| | - Julian D. Pillay
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4001 South Africa
| | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Department of Health Services Management and Administration, School of Business, SD Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), Wa, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ganchi FA, Hardcastle TC. Role of Point-of-Care Diagnostics in Lower- and Middle-Income Countries and Austere Environments. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111941. [PMID: 37296793 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Austere environments include the wilderness and many lower- and middle-income countries, with many of these countries facing unrest and war. The access to advanced diagnostic equipment is often unaffordable, even if available, and the equipment is often liable to break down. METHODS A short review paper examining the options available to medical professionals to undertake clinical and point-of-care diagnostic testing in resource-constrained environments that also illustrates the development of mobile advanced diagnostic equipment. The aim is to provide an overview of the spectrum and functionality of these devices beyond clinical acumen. RESULTS Details and examples of products covering all aspects of diagnostic testing are provided. Where relevant, reliability and cost implications are discussed. CONCLUSIONS The review highlights the need for more cost-effective accessible and utilitarian products and devices that will bring cost-effective health care to many in lower- and middle-income or austere environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feroz Abubaker Ganchi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Trauma and Burns Services, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Mayville 4058, South Africa
| | - Timothy Craig Hardcastle
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Nelson R Mandela School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa
- Trauma and Burns Services, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Mayville 4058, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chanda D, Kasanga M, Chanda R, Cobelens F. C-reactive protein: another addition to our armamentarium against tuberculosis? Lancet Glob Health 2023; 11:e636-e637. [PMID: 37061298 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00175-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Chanda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia; Adult Infectious Diseases Centre, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia; Department of Global Health and Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Maisa Kasanga
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Raphael Chanda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia; Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Frank Cobelens
- Department of Global Health and Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ansu-Mensah M, Kuupiel D, Asiamah EA, Ginindza TG. Facilitators and barriers to in vitro diagnostics implementation in resource-limited settings: A scoping review. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2023; 15:e1-e9. [PMID: 36861922 PMCID: PMC9982514 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v15i1.3777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization (WHO) developed the model list of essential in vitro diagnostics (EDL) to guide countries to develop and update point-of-care (POC) per their disease priorities. The EDL includes POC diagnostic tests for use in health facilities without laboratories; however, their implementation might face several challenges in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). AIM To identify facilitators and barriers to POC testing service implementations in the primary health care facilities in the LMICs. SETTING Low- and middle-income countries. METHODS This scoping review was guided by Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework. A comprehensive keyword search for literature was conducted in Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, PubMed, Web of Science and ScienceDirect using the Boolean terms ('AND' and 'OR'), as well as Medical Subject Headings. The study considered published articles in the English language from 2016 to 2021 and was limited to qualitative, quantitative and mixed-method studies. Two reviewers independently screened the articles at the abstract and full-text screening phases guided by the eligibility criteria. Data were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. RESULTS Of the 57 studies identified through literature searches, 16 met this study's eligibility criteria. Of the 16 studies, 7 reported on both facilitators and barriers; and the remainder reported on only barriers to POC test implementation such as inadequate funding, insufficient human resource, stigmatisation, et cetera. CONCLUSION The study demonstrated a wide research gap in facilitators and barriers, especially in the general POC diagnostic test for use in health facilities without laboratories in the LMICs. Extensive research in POC testing service is recommended to improve service delivery.Contribution: This study's findings contribute to a few works of literature on existing evidence of POC testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ansu-Mensah
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa; and The University Clinic, Sunyani Technical University, Sunyani.
| | - Desmond Kuupiel
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa,Faculty of Health Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel A. Asiamah
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa,Centre for Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit (CIDERU), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Themba G. Ginindza
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa,Centre for Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Research Unit (CIDERU), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Maluleke K, Musekiwa A, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Study protocol for developing a novel approach for improving supply chain management for SARS-CoV-2 point of care diagnostic services in resource-limited settings: a case study of Mopani District in Limpopo province, South Africa. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062509. [PMID: 36424106 PMCID: PMC9693879 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent evidence shows that point-of-care (POC) testing is a more feasible alternative for diagnosis of COVID-19 in settings that have poor access to laboratory diagnostic services. Equitable access to POC testing can be optimised through well-established supply chain management (SCM) systems. The proposed study aims to develop a novel approach for improving SCM for COVID-19 POC diagnostic services in resource-limited settings with poor access to laboratory diagnostic services, using Mopani District in Limpopo Province, South Africa as a study setting. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study was guided by results of the scoping review. Following the scoping review, we propose a mixed-methods study, which will be implemented in three phases. First, we will perform a geospatial analysis to investigate the spatial distribution of COVID-19 testing services. Second, we will perform an audit of POC diagnostic services including its supply chain to evaluate the effect of SCM on accessibility of COVID-19 POC diagnostic services and reveal SCM barriers and enablers of accessibility of COVID-19 POC diagnostic services. Third, we will perform a nominal group technique to collaborate with key stakeholders in co-creation of a novel approach for improving SCM systems for COVID-19 POC diagnostic services. For the geospatial analysis, we will employ the ArcGIS Software. For the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data that will be generated from the audit and nominal group discussion, we will employ Stata software and NVivo software, respectively. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been ethically reviewed and approved by two institutional review boards: University of Pretoria Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee (approval number 655/2021) and Limpopo Department of Health Research Ethics Committee (approval number LP-2021-12-007). The results of this study will be disseminated through national and international presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuhlula Maluleke
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria Faculty of Health Sciences, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Alfred Musekiwa
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria Faculty of Health Sciences, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lingervelder D, Koffijberg H, Emery JD, Fennessy P, Price CP, van Marwijk H, Eide TB, Sandberg S, Cals JW, Derksen JT, Kusters R, IJzerman MJ. How to Realize the Benefits of Point-of-Care Testing at the General Practice: A Comparison of Four High-Income Countries. Int J Health Policy Manag 2022; 11:2248-2260. [PMID: 34814677 PMCID: PMC9808289 DOI: 10.34172/ijhpm.2021.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In some countries, such as the Netherlands and Norway, point-of-care testing (POCT) is more widely implemented in general practice compared to countries such as England and Australia. To comprehend what is necessary to realize the benefits of POCT, regarding its integration in primary care, it would be beneficial to have an overview of the structure of healthcare operations and the transactions between stakeholders (also referred to as value networks). The aim of this paper is to identify the current value networks in place applying to POCT implementation at general practices in England, Australia, Norway and the Netherlands and to compare these networks in terms of seven previously published factors that support the successful implementation, sustainability and scale-up of innovations. METHODS The value networks were described based on formal guidelines and standards published by the respective governments, organizational bodies and affiliates. The value network of each country was validated by at least two relevant stakeholders from the respective country. RESULTS The analysis revealed that the biggest challenge for countries with low POCT uptake was the lack of effective communication between the several organizations involved with POCT as well as the high workload for general practitioners (GPs) aiming to implement POCT. It is observed that countries with a single national authority responsible for POCT have a better uptake as they can govern the task of POCT roll-out and management and reduce the workload for GPs by assisting with set-up, quality control, training and support. CONCLUSION Setting up a single national authority may be an effective step towards realizing the full benefits of POCT. Although it is possible for day-to-day operations to fall under the responsibility of the GP, this is only feasible if support and guidance are readily available to ensure that the workload associated with POCT is limited and as low as possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deon Lingervelder
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Hendrik Koffijberg
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jon D. Emery
- Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul Fennessy
- Department of Health & Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Christopher P. Price
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Harm van Marwijk
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Torunn B. Eide
- Department of General Practice, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sverre Sandberg
- The Norwegian Organisation for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (NOKLUS), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Porphyria Centre, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jochen W.L. Cals
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ron Kusters
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten J. IJzerman
- Health Technology and Services Research Department, Technical Medical Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Cancer Health Services Research, School of Population and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
A Detection-Service-Mobile Three-Terminal Software Platform for Point-of-Care Infectious Disease Detection System. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12090684. [PMID: 36140069 PMCID: PMC9496057 DOI: 10.3390/bios12090684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The traditional infectious disease detection process is cumbersome, and there is only a single application scenario. In recent years, with the development of the medical industry and the impact of the epidemic situation, the number of infectious disease detection instruments based on nursing point detection has been increasing. Due to this trend, many detection instruments and massive detection data urgently need to be managed. In addition, the experiment failed due to the abnormal fluorescence curve generated by a human operator or sample impurities. Finally, the geographic information system has also played an active role in spreading and preventing infectious diseases; this paper designs a “detection-service-mobile” three-terminal system to realize the control of diagnostic instruments and the comprehensive management of data. Machine learning is used to classify the enlarged curve and calculate the cycle threshold of the positive curve; combined with a geographic information system, the detection results are marked on the mobile terminal map to realize the visual display of the positive results of nucleic acid amplification detection and the early warning of infectious diseases. In the research, applying this system to portable field pathogen detection is feasible and practical.
Collapse
|
15
|
Yadav AK, Kumar D. A LAG-based framework to overcome the challenges of the sustainable vaccine supply chain: an integrated BWM–MARCOS approach. JOURNAL OF HUMANITARIAN LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/jhlscm-09-2021-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeEach individual needs to be vaccinated to control the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the shortest possible time. However, the vaccine distribution with an already strained supply chain in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) will not be effective enough to vaccinate all the population in stipulated time. The purpose of this paper is to show that there is a need to revolutionize the vaccine supply chain (VSC) by overcoming the challenges of sustainable vaccine distribution.Design/methodology/approachAn integrated lean, agile and green (LAG) framework is proposed to overcome the challenges of the sustainable vaccine supply chain (SVSC). A hybrid best worst method (BWM)–Measurement of Alternatives and Ranking According to COmpromise Solution (MARCOS) methodology is designed to analyze the challenges and solutions.FindingsThe analysis shows that vaccine wastage is the most critical challenge for SVSC, and the coordination among stakeholders is the most significant solution followed by effective management support.Social implicationsThe result of the analysis can help the health care organizations (HCOs) to manage the VSC. The effective vaccination in stipulated time will help control the further spread of the virus, which will result in the normalcy of business and availability of livelihood for millions of people.Originality/valueTo the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first study to explore sustainability in VSC by considering the environmental and social impact of vaccination. The LAG-based framework is also a new approach in VSC to find the solution for existing challenges.
Collapse
|
16
|
Yadav AK, Kumar D. A fuzzy decision framework of lean-agile-green (LAG) practices for sustainable vaccine supply chain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PRODUCTIVITY AND PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/ijppm-10-2021-0590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PurposeThe already-strained vaccine supply chain (VSC) of the expanded program for immunization (EPI) require a more robust and structured distribution network for pandemic/outbreak vaccination due to huge volume demand and time constraint. In this paper, a lean-agile-green (LAG) practices approach is proposed to improve the operational, economic and environmental efficiency of the VSC.Design/methodology/approachA fuzzy decision framework of importance performance analysis (IPA)–analytical hierarchy process (AHP)–technique for order for preference by similarity in ideal solution (TOPSIS) has been presented in this paper to prioritize the LAG practices on the basis of the influence on performance indicators. Sensitivity analysis is carried out to check the robustness of the presented model.FindingsThe derived result indicates that sustainable packaging, coordination among supply chain stakeholders and cold chain technology improvement are among the top practices affecting most of the performance parameters of VSC. The sensitivity analysis reveals that the priority of practices is highly dependent on the weightage of performance indicators.Practical implicationsThis study's finding will help policymakers reframe strategies for sustainable VSC (SVSC) by including new management practices that can handle regular immunization programs as well as emergency mass vaccination.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that proposes the LAG framework for SVSC. The IPA–Fuzzy AHP (FAHP)–Fuzyy TOPSIS (FTOPSIS) is also a novel combination in decision-making.
Collapse
|
17
|
Luka G, Samiei E, Tasnim N, Dalili A, Najjaran H, Hoorfar M. Comprehensive review of conventional and state-of-the-art detection methods of Cryptosporidium. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 421:126714. [PMID: 34325293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a critical waterborne protozoan pathogen found in water resources that have been a major cause of death and serious illnesses worldwide, costing millions of dollars annually for its detection and treatment. Over the past several decades, substantial efforts have been made towards developing techniques for the detection of Cryptosporidium. Early diagnostic techniques were established based on the existing tools in laboratories, such as microscopes. Advancements in fluorescence microscopy, immunological, and molecular techniques have led to the development of several kits for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. However, these methods have several limitations, such as long processing times, large sample volumes, the requirement for bulky and expensive laboratory tools, and the high cost of reagents. There is an urgent need to improve these existing techniques and develop low-cost, portable and rapid detection tools for applications in the water quality industry. In this review, we compare recent advances in nanotechnology, biosensing and microfluidics that have facilitated the development of sophisticated tools for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp.Finally, we highlight the advantages and disadvantages, of these state-of-the-art detection methods compared to current analytical methodologies and discuss the need for future developments to improve such methods for detecting Cryptosporidium in the water supply chain to enable real-time and on-site monitoring in water resources and remote areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Luka
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V1V7, Canada.
| | - Ehsan Samiei
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G8, Canada.
| | - Nishat Tasnim
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V1V7, Canada.
| | - Arash Dalili
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V1V7, Canada.
| | - Homayoun Najjaran
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V1V7, Canada.
| | - Mina Hoorfar
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC V1V1V7, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Maluleke K, Musekiwa A, Kgarosi K, Gregor EM, Dlangalala T, Nkambule S, Mashamba-Thompson T. A Scoping Review of Supply Chain Management Systems for Point of Care Diagnostic Services: Optimising COVID-19 Testing Capacity in Resource-Limited Settings. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11122299. [PMID: 34943536 PMCID: PMC8700402 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11122299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Point of care (POC) testing has enabled rapid coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosis in resource-limited settings with limited laboratory infrastructure and high disease burden. However, the accessibility of the tests is not optimal in these settings. This scoping review mapped evidence on supply chain management (SCM) systems for POC diagnostic services to reveal evidence that can help guide future research and inform the improved implementation of SARS-CoV-2 POC diagnostics in resource-limited settings. Methodology: This scoping review was guided by an adapted version of the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework. We searched the following electronic databases: Medline Ovid, Medline EBSCO, Scopus, PubMed, PsychInfo, Web of Science and EBSCOHost. We also searched grey literature in the form of dissertations/theses, conference proceedings, websites of international organisations such as the World Health Organisation and government reports. A search summary table was used to test the efficacy of the search strategy. The quality of the included studies was appraised using the mixed method appraisal tool (MMAT) version 2018. Results: We retrieved 1206 articles (databases n = 1192, grey literature n = 14). Of these, 31 articles were included following abstract and full-text screening. Fifteen were primary studies conducted in LMICs, and 16 were reviews. The following themes emerged from the included articles: availability and accessibility of POC diagnostic services; reasons for stockouts of POC diagnostic tests (procurement, storage, distribution, inventory management and quality assurance) and human resources capacity in POC diagnostic services. Of the 31 eligible articles, 15 underwent methodological quality appraisal with scores between 90% and 100%. Conclusions: Our findings revealed limited published research on SCM systems for POC diagnostic services globally. We recommend primary studies aimed at investigating the barriers and enablers of SCM systems for POC diagnostic services for highly infectious pathogens such SARS-CoV-2 in high disease-burdened settings with limited laboratory infrastructures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuhlula Maluleke
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa; (A.M.); (T.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alfred Musekiwa
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa; (A.M.); (T.D.)
| | - Kabelo Kgarosi
- Department of Library Services, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa;
| | - Emily Mac Gregor
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa;
| | - Thobeka Dlangalala
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa; (A.M.); (T.D.)
| | - Sphamandla Nkambule
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa;
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mo X, Wang X, Zhu Z, Yu Y, Chang D, Zhang X, Li D, Sun F, Zhou L, Xu J, Zhang H, Gao C, Guan M, Xiao Y, Wu W. Quality Management for Point-Of-Care Testing of Pathogen Nucleic Acids: Chinese Expert Consensus. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:755508. [PMID: 34722341 PMCID: PMC8548827 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.755508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 continues to circulate globally in 2021, while under the precise policy implementation of China’s public health system, the epidemic was quickly controlled, and society and the economy have recovered. During the pandemic response, nucleic acid detection of SARS-CoV-2 has played an indispensable role in the first line of defence. In the cases of emergency operations or patients presenting at fever clinics, nucleic acid detection is required to be performed and reported quickly. Therefore, nucleic acid point-of-care testing (POCT) technology for SARS-CoV-2 identification has emerged, and has been widely carried out at all levels of medical institutions. SARS-CoV-2 POCT has served as a complementary test to conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) batch tests, thus forming an experimental diagnosis platform that not only guarantees medical safety but also improves quality services. However, in view of the complexity of molecular diagnosis and the biosafety requirements involved, pathogen nucleic acid POCT is different from traditional blood-based physical and chemical index detection. No guidelines currently exist for POCT quality management, and there have been inconsistencies documented in practical operation. Therefore, Shanghai Society of Molecular Diagnostics, Shanghai Society of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Microbiology Division of Shanghai Society of Microbiology and Shanghai Center for Clinical Laboratory have cooperated with experts in laboratory medicine to generate the present expert consensus. Based on the current spectrum of major infectious diseases in China, the whole-process operation management of pathogen POCT, including its application scenarios, biosafety management, personnel qualification, performance verification, quality control, and result reporting, are described here. This expert consensus will aid in promoting the rational application and robust development of this technology in public health defence and hospital infection management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Mo
- Pediatric Translational Medicine Institute, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueliang Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Centre for Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhaoqin Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuetian Yu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Affiliated Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinxin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Rui Jin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fenyong Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunfang Gao
- Clinical Laboratory Medicine Center, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Guan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqun Xiao
- Department of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Centre for Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjuan Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
White AM, Mutai D, Cheruiyot D, Rule ARL. Get Me a Mask! The Challenge of Equipment Supply Chains. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2020-044305. [PMID: 34376529 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-044305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anne M White
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Amy R L Rule
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Brasier N, Osthoff M, De Ieso F, Eckstein J. Next-Generation Digital Biomarkers for Tuberculosis and Antibiotic Stewardship: Perspective on Novel Molecular Digital Biomarkers in Sweat, Saliva, and Exhaled Breath. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e25907. [PMID: 34420925 PMCID: PMC8414294 DOI: 10.2196/25907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The internet of health care things enables a remote connection between health care professionals and patients wearing smart biosensors. Wearable smart devices are potentially affordable, sensitive, specific, user-friendly, rapid, robust, lab-independent, and deliverable to the end user for point-of-care testing. The datasets derived from these devices are known as digital biomarkers. They represent a novel patient-centered approach to collecting longitudinal, context-derived health insights. Adding automated, analytical smartphone applications will enable their use in high-, middle-, and low-income countries. So far, digital biomarkers have been focused primarily on accelerometer data and heart rate due to well-established sensors originating from the consumer market. Novel emerging smart biosensors will detect biomarkers (or compounds) independent of a lab and noninvasively in sweat, saliva, and exhaled breath. These molecular digital biomarkers are a promising novel approach to reduce the burden from 2 major infectious diseases with urgent unmet needs: tuberculosis and infections with multidrug resistant pathogens. Active tuberculosis (aTbc) is one of the deadliest diseases from an infectious agent. However, a simple and reliable test for its detection is still missing. Furthermore, inappropriate antimicrobial use leads to the development of antimicrobial resistance, which is associated with high mortality and health care costs. From this perspective, we discuss the innovative approach of a noninvasive and lab-independent collection of novel biomarkers to detect aTbc, which at the same time may additionally serve as a scalable therapeutic drug monitoring approach for antibiotics. These molecular digital biomarkers are next-generation digital biomarkers and have the potential to shape the future of infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noe Brasier
- Department of Digitalization & ICT, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Institute for Translational Medicine, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Osthoff
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Fiorangelo De Ieso
- Department of Digitalization & ICT, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jens Eckstein
- Department of Digitalization & ICT, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
White AM, Mutai D, Cheruiyot D, Rule ARL, Mortensen JE, Schaffzin JK, Kamath-Rayne BD. Disinfection of Neonatal Resuscitation Equipment in Low-Resource Settings: The Importance, the Reality, and Considerations for the Future. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:7065. [PMID: 34281001 PMCID: PMC8297370 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18137065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Preventable neonatal deaths due to prematurity, perinatal events, and infections are the leading causes of under-five mortality. The vast majority of these deaths are in resource-limited areas. Deaths due to infection have been associated with lack of access to clean water, overcrowded nurseries, and improper disinfection (reprocessing) of equipment, including vital resuscitation equipment. Reprocessing has recently come to heightened attention, with the COVID-19 pandemic bringing this issue to the forefront across all economic levels; however, it is particularly challenging in low-resource settings. In 2015, Eslami et al. published a letter to the editor in Resuscitation, highlighting concerns about the disinfection of equipment being used to resuscitate newborns in Kenya. To address the issue of improper disinfection, the global health nongovernment organization PATH gathered a group of experts and, due to lack of best-practice evidence, published guidelines with recommendations for reprocessing of neonatal resuscitation equipment in low-resource areas. The guidelines follow the gold-standard principle of high-level disinfection; however, there is ongoing concern that the complexity of the guideline would make feasibility and sustainability difficult in the settings for which it was designed. Observations from hospitals in Kenya and Malawi reinforce this concern. The purpose of this review is to discuss why proper disinfection of equipment is important, why this is challenging in low-resource settings, and suggestions for solutions to move forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. White
- University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | | | | | - Amy R. L. Rule
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.R.L.R.); (J.E.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | - Joel E. Mortensen
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.R.L.R.); (J.E.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | - Joshua K. Schaffzin
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (A.R.L.R.); (J.E.M.); (J.K.S.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Stulens S, De Boeck K, Vandaele N. HIV supply chains in low- and middle-income countries: overview and research opportunities. JOURNAL OF HUMANITARIAN LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/jhlscm-08-2020-0072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeDespite HIV being reported as one of the major global health issues, availability and accessibility of HIV services and supplies remain limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The effective and efficient operation of HIV supply chains is critical to tackle this problem. The purpose of this paper is to give an introduction to HIV supply chains in low- and middle-income countries and identify research opportunities for the operations research/operations management (OR/OM) community.Design/methodology/approachFirst, the authors review a combination of the scientific and grey literature, including both qualitative and quantitative papers, to give an overview of HIV supply chain operations in low- and middle-income countries and the challenges that are faced by organizing such supply chains. The authors then classify and discuss the relevant OR/OM literature based on seven classification criteria: decision level, methodology, type of HIV service modeled, challenges, performance measures, real-life applicability and countries covered. Because research on HIV supply chains in low- and middle-income countries is limited in the OR/OM field, this part also includes papers focusing on HIV supply chain modeling in high-income countries.FindingsThe authors conclude this study by identifying several tendencies and gaps and by proposing future research directions for OR/OM research.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first literature review addressing this specific topic from an OR/OM perspective.
Collapse
|
24
|
Nagalla SR, Janaki V, Vijayalakshmi AR, Chayadevi K, Pratibha D, Rao PV, Sage KM, Nair‐Schaef D, Bean E, Roberts CT, Gravett MG. Glycosylated fibronectin point-of-care test for diagnosis of pre-eclampsia in a low-resource setting: a prospective Southeast Asian population study. BJOG 2020; 127:1687-1694. [PMID: 32426899 PMCID: PMC7687275 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the performance of a glycosylated fibronectin (GlyFn) point-of-care (POC) test for pre-eclampsia (PE) in a large Southeast Asian cohort (India) in comparison to previously described biomarkers. DESIGN A total of 798 pregnant women at ≥20 weeks of gestation were enrolled in a prospective case-control study. Study participants included 469 normotensive women with urinary mg protein/mmol creatinine ratio <0.3, 135 with PE (hypertension with urinary mg protein/mmol creatinine ratio ≥0.3) and 194 with gestational hypertension (hypertension with urinary mg protein/mmol creatinine ratio <0.3). METHODS GlyFn levels were determined using a POC device and PIGF, sFlt-1 and PAPPA2 levels were determined by immunoassay. Performance was assessed using logistic regression modelling and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Classification performance and positive and negative predictive values are reported at specific thresholds. RESULTS Increased levels of GlyFn, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and pregnancy-associated placental protein A2 (PAPPA2), and decreased levels of placental growth factor (PlGF) were significantly associated (P < 0.01) with clinically defined PE. Area under the ROC (AUROC) values with 95% confidence intervals were: GlyFn, 0.99 (0.98-0.99); PlGF, 0.96 (0.94-0.98); sFlt-1, 0.86 (0.83-0.89); and PAPPA2, 0.96 (0.94-0.97). Of subjects with GH, 48% were positive for more than two PE biomarkers, and 70% of these delivered preterm. CONCLUSIONS The Lumella™ GlyFn POC test has been validated in a low/middle-income country setting for PE diagnosis and may be a useful adjunctive tool for early identification, appropriate triage, and improved outcomes. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT The Lumella™ point-of-care test had excellent performance in diagnosing PE in a large Southeast Asian cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - V Janaki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyOsmania Medical CollegeHyderabadIndia
| | - AR Vijayalakshmi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMallareddy Institute of Medical SciencesHyderabadIndia
| | | | - D Pratibha
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyOsmania Medical CollegeHyderabadIndia
| | - PV Rao
- DiabetOmics, Inc.HillsboroORUSA
| | - KM Sage
- DiabetOmics, Inc.HillsboroORUSA
| | | | - E Bean
- DiabetOmics, Inc.HillsboroORUSA
| | | | - MG Gravett
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWAUSA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kuupiel D, Adu KM, Bawontuo V, Tabong PTN, Adogboba DA, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Geographical access to point-of-care testing for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy as an integral part of maternal healthcare in Ghana. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2020; 20:733. [PMID: 33238918 PMCID: PMC7690122 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-020-03441-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are associated with high maternal mortality in Ghana and globally. Evidence shows that there is poor availability of pregnancy-related point-of-care (POC) tests in Ghana’s primary healthcare (PHC) clinics (health centre or community-based health planning services facilities). Therefore, we employed geographic information systems to estimate the geographical distribution of and physical accessibility to HDP POC testing services in the Upper East Region (UER), Ghana. Methods We collected data on 100 out of 365 PHC clinics, public hospitals providing HDP testing, PHC clinic type, ownership, and availability of urine dipsticks and blood pressure (BP) devices. We also obtained the geo-located data of the PHC clinics and hospitals using the global positioning system. We employed ArcGIS 10.4 to measure the distance and travel time from the location of each PHC clinic without HDP POC testing services as well as from all locations of each district to the nearest hospital/clinic where the service is available. The travel time was estimated using an assumed motorised tricycle speed of 20 km/hour. We further calculated the spatial distribution of the hospitals/clinics providing HDP POC testing services using the spatial autocorrelation tool in ArcMap, and Stata version 14 for descriptive statistical analysis. Results Of the 100 participating PHC clinics, POC testing for HDP was available in 19% (14% health centres and 5% community-based health planning services compounds) in addition to the 10 hospitals use as referral points for the service. The findings indicated that the spatial pattern of the distribution of the health facilities providing HDP POC testing was random (z-score = -0.61; p = 0.54). About 17% of the PHC clinics without HDP POC testing service were located > 10 km to the nearest facility offering the service. The mean distance and travel time from PHC clinics without HDP POC testing to a health facility providing the service were 11.4 ± 9.9 km and 31.1 ± 29.2 min respectively. The results suggest that if every 19% of the 365 PHC clinics are offering HDP POC testing in addition to these 10 hospitals identified, then the estimated coverage (health facility-to-women in fertility age ratio) in the UER is 1: 3,869. Conclusions There is poor physical accessibility to HDP POC testing services from PHC clinics without HDP POC testing in the UER. Mothers who obtain maternal healthcare in about 17% of the PHC clinics travel long distances (> 10 km) to access the service when needed. Hence, there is a need to improve the availability of HDP POC diagnostic tests in Ghana’s rural clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana.
| | - Kwame Manu Adu
- Department of Geography, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana.,Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Fiapre, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Philip T N Tabong
- Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana.,School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Duncan A Adogboba
- Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Upper East Region, Bolgatanga, Ghana
| | - Tivani P Mashamba-Thompson
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Essack S, Bell J, Burgoyne D, Tongrod W, Duerden M, Sessa A, Altiner A, Shephard A. Point-of-Care Testing for Pharyngitis in the Pharmacy. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E743. [PMID: 33126412 PMCID: PMC7693205 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9110743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharyngitis (also known as sore throat) is a common, predominately viral, self-limiting condition which can be symptomatically managed without antibiotic treatment. Inappropriate antibiotic use for pharyngitis contributes to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. However, a small proportion of sore throats caused by group A streptococcal (GAS) infection may benefit from the provision of antibiotics. Establishing the cause of infection is therefore an important step in effective antibiotic stewardship. Point-of-care (POC) tests, where results are available within minutes, can distinguish between viral and GAS pharyngitis and can therefore guide treatment in primary healthcare settings such as community pharmacies, which are often the first point of contact with the healthcare system. In this opinion article, the evidence for the use of POC testing in the community pharmacy has been discussed. Evidence suggests that pharmacy POC testing can promote appropriate antibiotic use and reduce the need for general practitioner consultations. Challenges to implementation include cost, training and 'who prescribes', with country and regional differences presenting a particular issue. Despite these challenges, POC testing for pharyngitis has become widely available in pharmacies in some countries and may represent a strategy to contain antibiotic resistance and contribute to antimicrobial stewardship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabiha Essack
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - John Bell
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Douglas Burgoyne
- College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA;
| | - Wirat Tongrod
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Huachiew Chalermprakiet University, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand;
| | - Martin Duerden
- School of Medicine, Centre for Medical Education, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK;
| | - Aurelio Sessa
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care (SIMG, Società Italiana di Medicina Generale delle Cure Primarie), 50142 Florence, Italy;
| | - Attila Altiner
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, 18055 Rostock, Germany;
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Point of Care Diagnostics in Resource-Limited Settings: A Review of the Present and Future of PoC in Its Most Needed Environment. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2020; 10:bios10100133. [PMID: 32987809 PMCID: PMC7598644 DOI: 10.3390/bios10100133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Point of care (PoC) diagnostics are at the focus of government initiatives, NGOs and fundamental research alike. In high-income countries, the hope is to streamline the diagnostic procedure, minimize costs and make healthcare processes more efficient and faster, which, in some cases, can be more a matter of convenience than necessity. However, in resource-limited settings such as low-income countries, PoC-diagnostics might be the only viable route, when the next laboratory is hours away. Therefore, it is especially important to focus research into novel diagnostics for these countries in order to alleviate suffering due to infectious disease. In this review, the current research describing the use of PoC diagnostics in resource-limited settings and the potential bottlenecks along the value chain that prevent their widespread application is summarized. To this end, we will look at literature that investigates different parts of the value chain, such as fundamental research and market economics, as well as actual use at healthcare providers. We aim to create an integrated picture of potential PoC barriers, from the first start of research at universities to patient treatment in the field. Results from the literature will be discussed with the aim to bring all important steps and aspects together in order to illustrate how effectively PoC is being used in low-income countries. In addition, we discuss what is needed to improve the situation further, in order to use this technology to its fullest advantage and avoid “leaks in the pipeline”, when a promising device fails to take the next step of the valorization pathway and is abandoned.
Collapse
|
28
|
The Role of Single-Cell Technology in the Study and Control of Infectious Diseases. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061440. [PMID: 32531928 PMCID: PMC7348906 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of single-cell research in the recent decade has allowed biological studies at an unprecedented resolution and scale. In particular, single-cell analysis techniques such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) have helped show substantial links between cellular heterogeneity and infectious disease progression. The extensive characterization of genomic and phenotypic biomarkers, in addition to host-pathogen interactions at the single-cell level, has resulted in the discovery of previously unknown infection mechanisms as well as potential treatment options. In this article, we review the various single-cell technologies and their applications in the ongoing fight against infectious diseases, as well as discuss the potential opportunities for future development.
Collapse
|
29
|
Mashamba-Thompson TP, Crayton ED. Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence Technology for Novel Coronavirus Disease-19 Self-Testing. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10040198. [PMID: 32244841 PMCID: PMC7235895 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10040198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly spreading with a rising death toll and transmission rate reported in high income countries rather than in low income countries. The overburdened healthcare systems and poor disease surveillance systems in resource-limited settings may struggle to cope with this COVID-19 outbreak and this calls for a tailored strategic response for these settings. Here, we recommend a low cost blockchain and artificial intelligence-coupled self-testing and tracking systems for COVID-19 and other emerging infectious diseases. Prompt deployment and appropriate implementation of the proposed system have the potential to curb the transmissions of COVID-19 and the related mortalities, particularly in settings with poor access to laboratory infrastructure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Department of Public Health, University of Limpopo, Polokwane, Limpopo Province 0727, South Africa
- Correspondence:
| | - Ellen Debra Crayton
- Genesis Technology and Management Group, (GenesisTMG, LLC), Bethesda, MD 20817, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Minchella PA, Adjé-Touré C, Zhang G, Tehe A, Hedje J, Rottinghaus ER, Natacha K, Diallo K, Ouedraogo GL, Nkengasong JN. Use of pre-ART laboratory screening to identify renal, hepatic and haematological abnormalities in Côte d'Ivoire. Trop Med Int Health 2020; 25:408-413. [PMID: 31960558 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High demand for HIV-services and extensive clinical guidelines force health systems in low-resource settings to dedicate resources to service delivery at the expense of other priorities. Simplifying services may reduce the burden on health systems and pre-antiretroviral therapy (ART) laboratory screening is among the services under consideration for simplification. METHODS We assessed the frequencies of conditions linked to ART toxicities among 34,994 adult, ART-naïve patients with specimens referred to the RETRO-CI laboratory in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire between 1998 and 2017. Screening included tests for serum creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and haemoglobin (Hb) to identify renal dysfunction (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 50 mL/min), hepatic abnormalities (ALT > 5× upper limit of normal) and severe anaemia (Hb < 6.5 g/dL), respectively. We considered screening results across four eras and identified factors associated with the conditions in question. RESULTS The prevalence of renal dysfunction, hepatic abnormalities and severe anaemia were largely unchanged over time and just 8.4% of patients had any of the three conditions. Key factors associated with renal dysfunction and severe anaemia were age > 50 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.19-2.92; P < 0.001) and CD4 < 100 cells/µl (aOR: 2.57; 95% CI: 2.30-2.88; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION The relative infrequency of conditions linked to toxicity in Côte d'Ivoire supports the notion that simplification of pre-ART laboratory screening may be undertaken with limited negative impact on identification of adverse events. Targeted screening may be a feasible strategy to balance detection of conditions associated with ART toxicities with simplification of services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P A Minchella
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - C Adjé-Touré
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - G Zhang
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - A Tehe
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - J Hedje
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - E R Rottinghaus
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - K Natacha
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - K Diallo
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - G L Ouedraogo
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - J N Nkengasong
- Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kuupiel D, Adu KM, Bawontuo V, Adogboba DA, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Estimating the Spatial Accessibility to Blood Group and Rhesus Type Point-of-Care Testing for Maternal Healthcare in Ghana. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9040175. [PMID: 31694228 PMCID: PMC6963207 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9040175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In Ghana, a blood group and rhesus type test is one of the essential recommended screening tests for women during antenatal care since blood transfusion is a key intervention for haemorrhage. We estimated the spatial accessibility to health facilities for blood group and type point-of-care (POC) testing in the Upper East Region (UER), Ghana. Methods: We assembled the attributes and spatial data of hospitals, clinics, and medical laboratories providing blood group and rhesus type POC testing in the UER. We also obtained the spatial data of all the 131 towns, and 94 health centres and community-based health planning and services (CHPS) compounds providing maternal healthcare in the region. We further obtained the topographical data of the region, and travel time estimated using an assumed tricycle speed of 20 km/h. We employed ArcGIS 10.5 to estimate the distance and travel time and locations with poor spatial access identified for priority improvement. Findings: In all, blood group and rhesus type POC testing was available in 18 health facilities comprising eight public hospitals and six health centres, one private hospital, and three medical laboratories used as referral points by neighbouring health centres and CHPS compounds without the service. Of the 94 health centres and CHPS compounds, 51.1% (48/94) and 66.4% (87/131) of the towns were within a 10 km range to a facility providing blood group and rhesus type testing service. The estimated mean distance to a health facility for blood group and rhesus POC testing was 8.9 ± 4.1 km, whilst the mean travel time was 17.8 ± 8.3 min. Builsa South district recorded the longest mean distance (25.6 ± 7.4 km), whilst Bongo district recorded the shortest (3.1 ± 1.9 km). The spatial autocorrelation results showed the health facilities providing blood group and rhesus type POC testing were randomly distributed in the region (Moran Index = 0.29; z-score = 1.37; p = 0.17). Conclusion: This study enabled the identification of district variations in spatial accessibility to blood group and rhesus type POC testing in the region for policy decisions. We urge the health authorities in Ghana to evaluate and implement recommended POC tests such as slide agglutination tests for blood group and rhesus type testing in resource-limited settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School 0.0of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa;
- Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana;
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +27-735568200 or +233-550972968
| | | | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana;
- Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Fiapre, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Duncan A. Adogboba
- Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Upper East Region, Bolgatanga, Ghana;
| | - Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School 0.0of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4001, South Africa;
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kuupiel D, Adu KM, Bawontuo V, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Geographical Accessibility to District Hospitals/Medical Laboratories for Comprehensive Antenatal Point-of-Care Diagnostic Services in the Upper East Region, Ghana. EClinicalMedicine 2019; 13:74-80. [PMID: 31517264 PMCID: PMC6734000 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Access to referral healthcare facilities from primary healthcare (PHC) clinics for diagnostic services is critical for improving maternal health outcomes. We described the geographical distribution and accessibility to district hospitals/medical laboratories for comprehensive antenatal point-of-care (POC) diagnostic services in the Upper East region (UER), Ghana. METHODS We assembled detailed spatial data on 100 participated PHC clinics in our previous survey, their nearest referral district hospitals/medical laboratories, and landscape features influencing journeys in the UER. These were used in a geospatial model to estimate actual distance and travel time from a PHC facility to the nearest referral health facility for antenatal POC diagnostic services. Spatial distribution of the facilities was determined using spatial auto-correlation tool run in ArcMap 10.4.1. We employed Stata V14 for all other analysis. FINDINGS Of the 100 PHC clinics included in the analysis, only 15% were located less than 10 km to their nearest referral health facilities. The mean distance ± standard deviation from a PHC clinic to the nearest referral district hospital/medical laboratory for comprehensive antenatal POC diagnostic services was 7.0 km ± 4.9. Whilst the mean travel time using a motorized tricycle speed of 20 km/h to the nearest referral health facility for comprehensive antenatal POC diagnostic was 14.0 min ± 8.8. The spatial auto-correlation results for the PHC clinics suggested that the PHC clinics were spatially distributed at random rather than clustered (MI = 0.01, z-score = 0.33, p = 0.74). Whereas the spatial distribution of the referral health facilities suggested that the hospitals or medical laboratories were spatially dispersed (MI = - 0.69 z-score = - 2.05, p = 0.04). INTERPRETATION Although there is moderate geographical accessibility to district hospitals/medical laboratories for comprehensive antenatal diagnostic services in the UER, targeted improvement of POC diagnostic services in PHC clinics is recommended for improved maternal healthcare. FUNDING University of KwaZulu-Natal, College of Health Sciences Research Scholarship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana
- Corresponding author at: 2nd Floor George Campbell Building, Department of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus, Durban 4001, South Africa.
| | | | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Fiapre, Sunyani, Ghana
- Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wi TEC, Ndowa FJ, Ferreyra C, Kelly‐Cirino C, Taylor MM, Toskin I, Kiarie J, Santesso N, Unemo M. Diagnosing sexually transmitted infections in resource-constrained settings: challenges and ways forward. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 6:e25343. [PMID: 31468679 PMCID: PMC6715950 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain prevalent and are increasing in several populations. Appropriate STI diagnosis is crucial to prevent the transmission and sequelae of untreated infection. We reviewed the diagnostic accuracy of syndromic case management and existing point-of-care tests (POCTs), including those in the pipeline, to diagnose STIs in resource-constrained settings. METHODS We prioritized updating the systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of vaginal discharge from 2001 to 2015 to include studies until 2018. We calculated the absolute effects of different vaginal flowcharts and the diagnostic performance of POCTs on important outcomes. We searched the peer-reviewed literature for previously conducted systematic reviews and articles from 1990 to 2018 on the diagnostic accuracy of syndromic management of vaginal and urethral discharge, genital ulcer and anorectal infections. We conducted literature reviews from 2000 to 2018 on the existing POCTs and those in the pipeline. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS The diagnostic accuracy of urethral discharge and genital ulcer disease syndromes is relatively adequate. Asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections limit the use of vaginal discharge and anorectal syndromes. The pooled diagnostic accuracy of vaginal syndromic case management for CT/NG is low, resulting in high numbers of overtreatment and missed treatment. The absolute effect of POCTs was reduced overtreatment and missed treatment. Findings of the reviews on syndromic case management underscored the need for low-cost and accurate POCTs for the identification, first, of CT/NG, and, second, of Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and NG and MG resistance/susceptibility testing. Near-patient POCT molecular assays for CT/NG/TV are commercially available. The prices of these POCTs remain the barrier for uptake in resource-constrained settings. This is driving the development of lower cost solutions. CONCLUSIONS The WHO syndromic case management guidelines should be updated to raise the quality of STI management through the integration of laboratory tests. STI screening strategies are needed to address asymptomatic STIs. POCTs that are accurate, rapid, simple and affordable are urgently needed in resource-constrained settings to support the uptake of aetiological diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teodora EC Wi
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | | | | | | | - Melanie M Taylor
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Igor Toskin
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Reproductive Health and ResearchWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Nancy Santesso
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and BiostatisticsMcMaster UniversityOntarioCanada
| | - Magnus Unemo
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Gonorrhoea and other STIsDepartment of Laboratory MedicineFaculty of Medicine and HealthÖrebro UniversityÖrebroSweden
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kuupiel D, Bawontuo V, Drain PK, Gwala N, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Supply chain management and accessibility to point-of-care testing in resource-limited settings: a systematic scoping review. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:519. [PMID: 31340833 PMCID: PMC6657084 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND World Health Organization (WHO) has created an essential list of in-vitro diagnostics. Supply chain management (SCM) is said to be the vehicle that ensures that developed point-of-care (POC) tests reach their targeted settings for use. We therefore, mapped evidence on SCM of and accessibility to POC testing (availability and use of POC tests) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS We conducted a systematic scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley's framework as a guide. We searched PubMed; CINAHL; MEDLINE; WEB of Science; Science Direct; and Google Scholar databases for studies that focused on POC diagnostic tests and SCM. The review included studies that were undertaken in 140 countries defined by the World Bank as LMICs published up to August 2017. Two reviewers independently screened the abstracts and full articles against the eligibility criteria. The study used the mixed methods appraisal tool version 2011 to assess the risk of bias for the included studies. NVivo version 11 was employed to extract themes from all included studies and results presented using a narrative approach. RESULTS Of 292 studies identified in this review, only 15 published between 2009 and 2017 included evidence on POC diagnostics and SCM. Of the 15 studies, three were conducted in Zambia, one each in Mozambique, Uganda, Guatemala; South Africa, one in Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and one multi-country study (Tanzania, Uganda, China, Peru and Zambia and Brazil). Six studies were not country specific since they were not primary studies. Majority of the studies reported stock-outs of HIV, syphilis, and malaria POC tests. There was a moderate to substantial level of agreement between the reviewers' responses at full article screening stage (Kappa statistic = 0.80, p < 0.01). Nine studies underwent methodological quality appraisal and all, scored between 90 and 100%. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrated limited published research on SCM of and accessibility to POC testing in LMICs. Further studies aimed at investigating SCM of POC tests in resource-limited settings to identify the barriers/challenges and provide a context-specific evidence-based solutions for policy/decision makers, implementers, and POC developers, funders, and development partners would be essential. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42016043711.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Fiapre, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Paul K. Drain
- International Clinical Research Center, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Nonjabulo Gwala
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kuupiel D, Adu KM, Apiribu F, Bawontuo V, Adogboba DA, Ali KT, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Geographic accessibility to public health facilities providing tuberculosis testing services at point-of-care in the upper east region, Ghana. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:718. [PMID: 31182068 PMCID: PMC6558903 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7052-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Ghana, limited evidence exists about the geographical accessibility to health facilities providing tuberculosis (TB) diagnostic services to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, we aimed to assess the geographic accessibility to public health facilities providing TB testing services at point-of-care (POC) in the Upper East Region (UER), Ghana. METHODS We assembled detailed spatial data on all 10 health facilities providing TB testing services at POC, and landscape features influencing journeys. These data were used in a geospatial model to estimate actual distance and travel time from the residential areas of the population to health facilities providing TB testing services. Maps displaying the distance values were produced using ArcGIS Desktop v10.4. Spatial distribution of the health facilities was done using spatial autocorrelation (Global Moran's Index) run in ArcMap 10.4.1. We also applied remote sensing through satellite imagery analysis to map out residential areas and identified locations for targeted improvement in the UER. RESULTS Of the 13 districts in the UER, 4 (31%) did not have any health facility providing TB testing services. In all, 10 public health facilities providing TB testing services at POC were available in the region representing an estimated population to health facility ratio of 125,000 people per facility. Majority (60%) of the health facilities providing TB testing services in the region were in districts with a total population greater than 100,000 people. Majority (62%) of the population resident in the region were located more than 10 km away from a health facility providing TB testing services. The mean distance ± standard deviation to the nearest public health facility providing TB testing services in UER was 33.2 km ± 13.5. Whilst the mean travel time using a motorized tricycle speed of 20 km/h to the nearest facility providing TB testing services in the UER was 99.6 min ± 41.6. The results of the satellite imagery analysis show that 51 additional health facilities providing TB testing services at POC are required to improve geographical accessibility. The results of the spatial autocorrelation analysis show that the spatial distribution of the health facilities was dispersed (z-score = - 2.3; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION There is poor geographic accessibility to public health facilities providing TB testing services at POC in the UER of Ghana. Targeted improvement of rural PHC clinics in the UER to enable them provide TB testing services at POC is highly recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa. .,Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana.
| | - Kwame M Adu
- Department of geography, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Felix Apiribu
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.,Department of Nursing, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Fiapre, Sunyani, Ghana.,Research for Sustainable Development Consult, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Duncan A Adogboba
- Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Upper East Region, Bolgatanga, Ghana
| | - Kwasi T Ali
- Catholic Health Services, Goaso Diocese, Goaso, Brong Ahafo Region, Ghana
| | - Tivani P Mashamba-Thompson
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Tinarwo P, Zewotir T, Yende-Zuma N, Garrett NJ, North D. An Evaluation to Determine the Strongest CD4 Count Covariates during HIV Disease Progression in Women in South Africa. Infect Dis Ther 2019; 8:269-284. [PMID: 30756260 PMCID: PMC6522572 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-019-0235-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Past endeavours to deal with the obstacle of expensive Cluster of Difference 4 (CD4+) count diagnostics in resource-limited settings have left a long trail of suggested continuous CD4+ count clinical covariates that turned out to be a potentially important integral part of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment process during disease progression. However, an evaluation to determine the strongest candidates among these CD4+ count covariates has not been well documented. METHODS The Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) initially enrolled HIV-negative (phase 1) patients into different study cohorts. The patients who seroconverted (237) during follow-up care were enrolled again into a post-HIV infection cohort where they were further followed up with weekly to fortnightly visits up to 3 months (phase 2: acute infection), monthly visits from 3-12 months (phase 3: early infection) and quarterly visits thereafter (phase 4: established infection) until antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation (phase 5). The CD4+ count and 46 covariates were repeatedly measured at each phase of the HIV disease progression. A multilevel partial least squares approach was applied as a variable reduction technique to determine the strongest CD4+ count covariates. RESULTS Only 18 of the 46 investigated clinical attributes were the strongest CD4+ count covariates and the top 8 were positively and independently associated with the CD4+ count. Besides the confirmatory lymphocytes, these were basophils, albumin, haematocrit, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), platelets, potassium and monocytes. Overall, electrolytes, proteins and red blood cells were the dominant categories for the strongest covariates. CONCLUSION Only a few of the many previously suggested continuous CD4+ count clinical covariates showed the potential to become an important integral part of the treatment process. Prolonging the pre-treatment period of the HIV disease progression by effectively incorporating and managing the covariates for long-term influence on the CD4+ cell response has the potential to delay challenges associated with ART side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Partson Tinarwo
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Temesgen Zewotir
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nonhlanhla Yende-Zuma
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Nigel J Garrett
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Delia North
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Empirical Framework for Point-of-Care Diagnostics Supply Chain Management for Accessibility and Sustainability of Diagnostic Services in Ghana's Primary Health Care Clinics. POINT OF CARE 2019. [DOI: 10.1097/poc.0000000000000186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
38
|
Toward Improving Accessibility of Point-of-Care Diagnostic Services for Maternal and Child Health in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. POINT OF CARE 2019; 18:17-25. [PMID: 30886544 PMCID: PMC6407818 DOI: 10.1097/poc.0000000000000180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Point-of-care (POC) testing can improve health care provision in settings with limited access to health care services. Access to POC diagnostic services has shown potential to alleviate some diagnostic challenges and delays associated with laboratory-based methods in low- and middle-income countries. Improving accessibility to POC testing (POCT) services during antenatal and perinatal care is among the global health priorities to improve maternal and child health. This review provides insights on the availability of POC testing designed for diagnosing HIV, syphilis, and malaria in pregnancy to improve maternal and child health. In addition, factors such as accessibility of POC testing, training of health work force, and the efficiency of POC testing services delivery in low- and middle-income countries are discussed. A framework to help increase access to POC diagnostic services and improve maternal and child health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries is proposed.
Collapse
|
39
|
Kuupiel D, Tlou B, Bawontuo V, Drain PK, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Poor supply chain management and stock-outs of point-of-care diagnostic tests in Upper East Region's primary healthcare clinics, Ghana. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211498. [PMID: 30811407 PMCID: PMC6392218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several supply chain components are important to sustain point-of-care (POC) testing services in rural settings. To evaluate the availability of POC diagnostic tests in rural Ghana's primary healthcare (PHC) clinics, we conducted an audit of the supply chain management for POC diagnostic services in rural Upper East Region's (UER) PHC clinics, Ghana to determine the reasons/causes of POC tests deficiencies. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted a review of accessible POC diagnostics in 100 PHC clinics in UER, Ghana from February to March 2018. We used a monitoring audit tool adopted from the World Health Organization and Management Science for Health guidelines for supply chain management of diagnostics for compliance. We determined a clinic's compliance with the stipulated guidelines, and a composite compliant score was defined as a percentage rating of 90 to 100%. We used univariate logistic regression analysis in Stata 14 to determine the level of association between supply chain management and the audit variables. RESULTS Overall, the composite compliant score of supply chain management for existing POC tests was at 81% (95%CI: 79%-82%). The mean compliance with distribution guidelines was at 93.8% (95%CI: 91.9%-95.6%) the highest score, whilst inventory management scored the lowest, at 53.5% (95%CI: 49.5%-57.5%) compliance. Of the 13 districts in the region, the results showed complete stock-out of blood glucose test in all selected PHC clinics in seven (53.8%) districts, haemoglobin and hepatitis B virus test in three (23.1%), and urine protein test in two (15.4%) districts. Based on our univariate logistics regression models, stock-out of tests at the Regional Medical and District Health Directorates stores in the region, high clinic attendance, lack of documentation of expiry date/expired tests, poor documentation of inventory level, poor monitoring of monthly consumption level, and failure to document unexplained losses of the various POC tests were significant predictors of complete test stock-out in most of the clinics in the Upper East Region. DISCUSSION There is poor supply chain management of POC diagnostic tests in UER's PHC clinics. Improvement in inventory management and human resource capacity for POC testing is critical to ensure accessibility and sustainability of POC diagnostic services in resource-limited settings PHC clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Desmond Kuupiel
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Boikhutso Tlou
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Vitalis Bawontuo
- Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences, Catholic University College of Ghana, Fiapre, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Paul K. Drain
- International Clinical Research Centre, Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Tivani P. Mashamba-Thompson
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Accessibility of pregnancy-related point-of-care diagnostic tests for maternal healthcare in rural primary healthcare facilities in Northern Ghana: A cross-sectional survey. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01236. [PMID: 30828664 PMCID: PMC6383048 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Improving access to maternal healthcare in resource-limited settings plays a critical role in improving maternal health outcomes and reducing maternal deaths. However, barriers and challenges may exist in rural clinics and could affect successful implementation. This study assessed the current accessibility of pregnancy-related point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tests for maternal healthcare in rural primary healthcare (PHC) clinics in northern Ghana. Method We randomly selected 100 PHC clinics providing maternal healthcare from a total list of 356 PHC clinicss obtained from the Regional Health Directorate. Selected clinics were surveyed from February to March 2018, using an adopted survey tool. We obtained data for clinic-level staffing, availability, usage, and desired POC diagnostic tests. Stata 14 was used for data analysis. Findings Majority (64%) of the respondents were midwives. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) years of work experience and working hours per week were estimated at 5.6 years ± 0.4 and 122 hours ± 5.2 respectively. Average antenatal clinic attendance (clinic census) per month was 65 ± 67 pregnant women (Range: 3–360). The mean ± SD POC tests available and use was 4.9 tests ± 2.2. POC tests for malaria, HIV, urine pregnancy, and blood pressure monitoring devices were available in most clinics. POC tests requested by the clinics to assist them care for pregnant women included: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (95%); hepatitis C (94%); sickling (91%); tuberculosis, blood glucose and blood type (89%) each; urinary tract infection (87%); urine protein (81%); hepatitis B (78%); haemoglobin (76%); and syphilis (76%). Interpretation There is poor accessibility to pregnancy-related POC diagnostic tests for maternal healthcare due to low availability (≤5 tests per PHC clinic) of POC tests in rural PHC clinics in northern Ghana.
Collapse
|
41
|
Dhlamini TS, Kuupiel D, Mashamba-Thompson TP. Evidence on point-of-care diagnostics for assessment of nutritional biochemical markers as an integral part of maternal services in low- and middle-income countries: systematic scoping review protocol. Syst Rev 2019; 8:6. [PMID: 30611308 PMCID: PMC6321684 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-018-0932-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malnutrition affects a third of the global population with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) being the most affected. Most of those affected by malnutrition have limited means of determining their nutritional status. Recent developments of point-of-care (POC) diagnostics promise to enable early diagnosis of nutritional deficiencies or disease risk through biochemical indicator assessment. This provides potential opportunities for relatively simple interventions before the emergence of clinical symptoms. The main objective of this systematic scoping review is to map evidence on accessibility to POC diagnostic tests for the assessment of nutritional biochemical markers as an integral part of maternal health services in LMICs. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will search for relevant literature from the following databases: PubMed, Science Direct, EBSCOhost (Academic search complete, CINAHL with full text, MEDLINE with full text, MEDLINE), Google Scholar and World Health Organization library database. We will also search reference lists of included studies and existing networks such as organisations and conferences to source relevant literature. Primary research articles, published in peer-reviewed journals; review articles and grey literature that address the research question will be included. We will also search clinical trial registers to find relevant studies. Two independent reviewers will screen abstracts and full articles in parallel, from the included studies, using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines will be used for reporting the screening results. NVivo version 10 will be employed to enable content thematic analysis of the review findings. A narrative summary of the results will be presented according to the emerging themes. DISCUSSION We anticipate finding relevant literature on point-of-care diagnostic services for assessment of biochemical indicators as part of maternal services in low- and middle-income countries. The evidence obtained from the included studies when summarised will help to guide future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T S Dhlamini
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - D Kuupiel
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - T P Mashamba-Thompson
- Department of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Singhi P. Central Nervous System Infections in Children: An Ongoing Challenge! Indian J Pediatr 2019; 86:49-51. [PMID: 30132192 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-018-2745-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Singhi
- Director Pediatric Neurology and Neurodevelopment, Medanta, The Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Peralta JM, Cavalcanti MG. Is POC-CCA a truly reliable test for schistosomiasis diagnosis in low endemic areas? The trace results controversy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006813. [PMID: 30408030 PMCID: PMC6224048 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- José M. Peralta
- Departmento de Imunologia, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marta G. Cavalcanti
- Departmento de Imunologia, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Serviço de Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Broza YY, Vishinkin R, Barash O, Nakhleh MK, Haick H. Synergy between nanomaterials and volatile organic compounds for non-invasive medical evaluation. Chem Soc Rev 2018; 47:4781-4859. [PMID: 29888356 DOI: 10.1039/c8cs00317c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This article is an overview of the present and ongoing developments in the field of nanomaterial-based sensors for enabling fast, relatively inexpensive and minimally (or non-) invasive diagnostics of health conditions with follow-up by detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) excreted from one or combination of human body fluids and tissues (e.g., blood, urine, breath, skin). Part of the review provides a didactic examination of the concepts and approaches related to emerging sensing materials and transduction techniques linked with the VOC-based non-invasive medical evaluations. We also present and discuss diverse characteristics of these innovative sensors, such as their mode of operation, sensitivity, selectivity and response time, as well as the major approaches proposed for enhancing their ability as hybrid sensors to afford multidimensional sensing and information-based sensing. The other parts of the review give an updated compilation of the past and currently available VOC-based sensors for disease diagnostics. This compilation summarizes all VOCs identified in relation to sickness and sampling origin that links these data with advanced nanomaterial-based sensing technologies. Both strength and pitfalls are discussed and criticized, particularly from the perspective of the information and communication era. Further ideas regarding improvement of sensors, sensor arrays, sensing devices and the proposed workflow are also included.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoav Y Broza
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Russell Berrie Nanotechnology Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 3200003, Israel.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|