Browsing by Author "Ayi, I."

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Administrative practices of health professionals and use of artesunate-amodiaquine by community members for treating uncomplicated malaria in southern Ghana: implications for artemisinin-based combination therapy deployment
(Tropical Medicine and International Health, 2011) Kwansa-Bentum, B.; Ayi, I.; Suzuki, T.; Otchere, J.; Kumagai, T.; Anyan, W.K.; Asahi, H.; Akao, N.; Wilson, M.D.; Boakye, D.A.; Ohta, N.
Objective: To investigate the use of artemisinin-based combination and monotherapy by community members and the administrative practices of health professionals in treating malaria in Ghana. Method: This study is a community-based cross-sectional survey in 11 rural and urban areas in southern Ghana. Using the interviewer method, close-ended questionnaires were administered to community members. Similar questionnaires were also administered in health facilities, community pharmacies and licensed chemical shops. Results: A total of 1085 individuals comprising 959 non-health professionals and 126 health professionals were interviewed. Fifty-seven per cent of the community members visit pharmacies/drug stores as the first point of call when they suspect malaria. According to the participating drug sellers, artemether-lumefantrine (AL) is the most prescribed/sold anti-malarial drug (59.2%), followed by dihydroartemisinin (35%), sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (33.0%) and artesunate-amodiaquine (AS-AQ) (27.2%). The majority of customers who visit pharmacies or drug stores without prescription have their anti-malarial drug selected by the shop attendant; in situations like that, dihydroartemisinin and artesunate monotherapies are sold just as AS-AQ and AL. Chloroquine is still sold by some drug vendors, 5years after its proscription. Conclusion: Whereas the use of AS-AQ and AL are acceptable, the frequent use of dihydroartemisinin and artesunate monotherapy threatens the future of ACTs.
Agro-ecological zone and farm diversity are factors associated with haemoglobin and anaemia among rural school-aged children and adolescents in Ghana
(Maternal and Child Nutrition, 2018-07) Azupogo, F.; Aurino, E.; Gelli, A.; Bosompem, K.M.; Ayi, I.; Osendarp, S.J.M.; Brouwer, I.D.; Folson, G.
Understanding contextual risk factors for haemoglobin (Hb) status and anaemia of rural school-aged children (SAC) and adolescents is critical in developing appropriate interventions to prevent anaemia. We analysed secondary data from the baseline of an impact evaluation of the Ghana School Feeding Programme to determine the severity of anaemia and contextual factors associated with anaemia and Hb status among rural SAC (6-9 years; n = 323) and adolescents (10-17 years; n = 319) in Ghana. We used regression models with variable selection based on backward elimination in our analyses. The mean Hb was 113.8 ± 13.1 g/L, and the overall prevalence of anaemia was 52.3%, being 55.1% and 49.5% among SAC and adolescents, respectively. We identified child's age (β = 2.21, P < 0.001); farm diversity score (β = 0.59, P = 0.036); and agro-ecological zone (P trend <0.001) as the main predictors of Hb of SAC. Household asset index (P trend = 0.042) and agro-ecological zone (P trend <0.001) were predictors of Hb in adolescents. Agro-ecological zone and age were pre-dictors of anaemia, but the effect of age was only significant for girls and not boys (prevalence odds ratio [POR] = 1.35, 95% CI [1.04, 1.76] vs. POR = 1.14, 95% CI [0.88, 1.46]). SAC in households with maize stock were less likely to be anaemic (POR = 0.55, 95% CI [0.32, 0.97]). Household dietary diversity score (β = 0.59, P = 0.033) was associated with Hb status for the full sample only. Anaemia is a severe public health problem among SAC and adolescents in rural Ghana irrespective of sex. Farm diversity score, availability of maize stock in the household, household asset index, and agro-ecological zone were the main predictors of Hb and anaemia among the rural SAC and adolescents.This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Anaemia among school children older than five years in the Volta Region of Ghana
(The Pan African medical journal, 2014-01) Egbi, G.; Steiner-Asiedu, M.; Kwesi, F.S.; Ayi, I.; Ofosu, W.; Setorglo, J.; Klobodu, S.S.; Armar-Klemesu, M.
INTRODUCTION: Anaemia among children is a public health issue in Ghana. The Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) was instituted on pilot basis in an effort to provide nutritious lunch to school children. Evidence on the nutritional status of pupils is needed to inform the expansion of GSFP. This study sought to assess anaemia among Ghanaian pupils.METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved a random sample of 143 pupils aged 6 to 12 years. Blood samples were collected and analysed for serum-ferritin (SF), C-reactive protein (CRP), haemoglobin and malaria-parasitaemia (MP). Stool samples were examined for soil-transmitted helminths. Dietary data were collected using the 24 hour-recall method on three non-consecutive days and a food frequency questionnaire. The Student's t-test was used to compare mean values between sexes. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with anaemia. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.RESULTS: SF and haemoglobin concentrations were 23.9 ± 15 ng/ml and 120 ± 11 g/L respectively. The prevalence of anaemia was 30.8%. More females (41.5%) than males (21.8%) had anaemia (p < 0.005). Seventy-one percent of pupils had low SF levels. MP prevalence was 67.8%. Hookworm infestation was only observed in males (18.0%). Dietary iron and vitamin C intakes were 18.98 ± 8.8 mg and 23.7 ± 6.7 mg, respectively. Child's sex, SF and MP were associated with anaemia. Males had a lower likelihood of being anaemic (OR = 0.2, CI 0.1-0.5, p = 0.002).CONCLUSION: The study findings underscore the need for multi-pronged approaches that address both malaria control and nutrition in order to reduce anaemia among pupils.
Biology of Anopheles gambiae and insecticide resistance: Entomological study for a large scale of indoor residual spraying in South East Benin
(2011-11) Padonou, G.G.; Sezonlin, M.; Gbedjissi, G.L.; Ayi, I.; Azondekon, R.; Djenontin, A.; Bio-Bangana, S.; Oussou, O.; Yadouleton, A.; Boakye, D.; Akogbeto, M.
Indoor residual spraying (IRS) has been proposed by the National Malaria Control Programme of Benin in the districts of Adjohoun, Dangbo, Misserete and Seme. Up to date entomological data are unavailable in these districts. To be effective, this measure must be based on the knowledge of biology of the malaria vectors. To achieve this aim, vector collections were made in the study area. A total of 49.059 Culicidae were captured. Anopheles gambiae s.s accounted for 20.91% while Anopheles funestus accounted for only 0.007%. An. gambiae s.s were molecular form M, resistant to DDT and permethrin, but susceptible to deltamethrin (mortality 100%) and bendiocarb (mortality 100%). Endophilic, blood feeding and endophagic rates were respectively estimated to be 65.74%, 53.23 and 70.18%. There was no seasonal variation of longevity, but the entomological inoculation rate ranged from 0 to 0.73 infective bites/ person / night according to localities and seasons. This study confirms a high spatial heterogeneity in mosquito distribution and shows that An. gambiae s.s is highly endophagic and endophilic (feed and rest indoor) in south east Benin. While the vector remains susceptible to deltamethrin, high levels of kdr suggest that the use of pyrethrinoid for IRS may be at risk.
Congenital toxoplasmosis and pregnancy malaria detection post-partum: Effective diagnosis and its implication for efficient management of congenital infection.
(Parasitology International, 2015-12) Blay, E.A.; Ghansah, A.; Otchere, J.; Koku, R.; Kwofie, K.D.; Bimi, L.; Takashi, S.; Ohta, N.; Ayi, I.
Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) and pregnancy malaria (PM) have been individually reported to cause severe negative outcomes in pregnancies but the diagnostic method is still debatable. This study sought to estimate the prevalence of PM and CT single and co-infections in pregnant women by using various specimens including plasma and placental tissues. Genomic DNA extracted from the placenta, cord blood or blood of mothers was tested by PCR. Conventional method of immunodiagnosis was done for CT. We tested 79 pregnant women aged 18–42 years (mean: 28 ± 1.06). Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection determined by PCR on mother's peripheral blood specimen was 6.3% whiles 57.3% was recorded for placental tissues (p < 0.01). PCR testing for placental tissues showed 29.2% positive for Toxoplasma gondii, whiles 76.0% of mothers had serum IgG against T. gondii. It should be noted that 6.3% of the placental tissues showed PCR positive for SAG 3, a marker of active infection in T. gondii. Although there were no enhanced foetal disorders at birth in our study, there is a possibility of active transmission of T. gondii from mothers to foetuses even in immune mothers. Our study suggests that foetuses were exposed to P. falciparum and T. gondii in utero, and placenta is a better specimen for PCR in detecting such episodes. In cases of PCR-positive samples, clinical follow-up after birth may be important.
Content Analysis of Primary and Secondary School Textbooks Regarding Malaria Control: a Multi-Country Study
(PLoS One, 2012-01) Nonaka, D.; Jimba, M.; Mizoue, T.; Kobayashi, J.; Yasuoka, J.; Ayi, I.; Jayatilleke, A.C.; Shrestha, S.; Kikuchi, K.; Haque, S.E.; Yi, S.
Background: In tropical settings, malaria education at school is potentially useful, but textbook content related to malaria education has so far received little attention. This study aimed to examine whether school textbooks contain sufficient knowledge and skills to help children in primary and lower secondary schools and their family members to cope with malaria. Methodology/Principal Findings: This was a descriptive, cross-country study. We collected textbooks that were used by children in grades one to nine from nine countries endemic for malaria: Laos, Cambodia, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Zambia, Niger, Benin, and Ghana. Two reviewers per country identified descriptions about malaria by seeking the term ‘‘malaria’’ or a local word that corresponds to malaria in languages other than English. The authors categorized the identified descriptions according to the content of the descriptions. Additionally, the authors examined whether the identified contents addressed life skill messages. Of a total of 474 textbooks collected, 35 contained descriptions about malaria. The most commonly included content was transmission mode/vector (77.1%), followed by preventive measures (60.0%), epidemiology (57.1%), cause/agent (54.3%), signs/symptoms (37.1%) and treatment (22.9%). Treatment-related content was not included in any textbooks from four countries and textbooks failed to recommend the use of insecticide treated bed nets in five countries. Very few textbooks included content that facilitated prompt treatment, protection of risk groups, and use of recommended therapy. Conclusion/Significance: Textbooks rarely included knowledge and skills that are crucial to protect schoolchildren and their families from malaria. This study identified the need for improvement to textbook contents regarding malaria.
Control of Parasitic Diseases through School-based Health Education and Deworming: A five years activities in Ada-Foah, Ghana. X European Multicolloquium of Parasitology – EMOP 10 Paris
(France CN, pp. 103-107, 2008) Bosompem, K.A.; Wilson, M.D.; Anyan, W.K.; Awazawa, T.; Hanafusa, D.; Boakye, D.A.; Appawu, M.A.; Ayi, I.; Boamah, D.; Asigbee, J.K.; Quartey, J.K.; Ogiwara, H.; Ohta, N.; Ofori-Adjei, D.; Nyarko, A.; Takeuchi, T.
KAP and parasitological surveys were conducted (in 2002, 2005 and 2007) among primary school children in the model site of West African Centre for International Parasite Control (WACIPAC) in Ghana. School-based health intervention was used as a means of controlling Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) and Schistosomiasis. Comprehensive health promoting activities, including health education and mass deworming was conducted in all 10 primary schools in communities in the area. The KAP study showed that hygienic and de-worming practices and knowledge about de-worming had improved. Par asitlogical surveys also showed that the prevalence of both STH and schistosomiasis decreased sharply over the 5 years. Interestingly, knowledge related to the causes and transmission of parasitic diseases did not show improvement.
Determination of the absolute configuration of the novel anti-trypanosomal iridoid molucidin isolated from Morinda lucida by X-ray analysis
(ELSEVIER, 2015-12) Karasawa, S.; Yoza, K.; Tung, N.H.; Uto, T.; Morinaga, O.; Suzuki, M.; Kwofie, K.D.; Amoa-Bosompem, M.; Boakye, D.A.; Ayi, I.; Adegle, R.; Sakyiamah, M.; Ayertey, F.; Aboagye, F.; Appiah, A.A.; Owusu, K.B.-A.; Tuffour, I.; Atchoglo, P.; Shoyama, Y.
The strong anti-trypanosomal active compound, molucidin, contains a spirolactone tetracyclic iridoid skeleton and is isolated from Morinda lucida as an enantiomer of oruwacin, which is isolated from the same plant. To confirm the absolute configuration of molucidin, we prepared single crystals of molucidin for X-ray analysis. The absolute configuration of the afforded single crystal was determined by X-ray crystallography using a Cu radiation source. X-ray diffraction data were collected at 93 K in the 2θ range 7.468–134.99° and analyzed using the SHELXL-2014 program. The corresponding chiral quaternary carbon atoms in molucidin were unambiguously determined as 1R, 5S, 8S, 9S, and 10S. Notably, both enantiomers of a single molecule, molucidin and oruwacin, with a rigid structure have been isolated from the same plant species. The biosynthetic pathway for the formation of molucidin is also discussed on the basis of the absolute configuration. Our results for the first time support for structural elucidation of tetracyclic iridoids using X-ray analysis.
Development of membrane-based tests for the detection of urinary antigens and antibodies in human toxoplasmosis: preliminary studies in Ghanaian patients.
(preliminary studies in Ghanaian patients, 2005) Ayi, I.; Akao, N.; Bosompem, K.M.; Akafo, S.K.; Clarke, J.; Nyador, L.; Apea-Kubi, K.A.; Fujita, K.
Two membrane-based ELISA systems were used in detecting Toxoplasma antigens and anti-Toxoplasma antibodies in urine samples collected from 54 ophthalmology (22 suggestive active and 32 suggestive past infection) patients and 26 pregnant women attending obstetrics/gynaecology clinic (OGP), suspected of toxoplasmosis by eye examination, past medical records and questionnaire, respectively, in Ghana from mid-February to April 2002. The antigen detecting ELISA was able to demonstrate antigen in 100% (22/22) ophthalmology (active infection) and 62.5% (20/32) ophthalmology (past infection) patients, and 42% (11/26) of OGP which included 3 that were sero-negative prior to and during this study, giving an overall prevalence of 66.3% (53/80). The urinary antigen positive samples also included 6 that were negative for both the Dye Test (DT) and latex agglutination test (LAT). Antigen was not detected in the urine of 22 normal (sero-negative for antibodies to Toxoplasma) individuals. The membrane-based urinary antibody detecting sandwich ELISA also detected anti-Toxoplasma antibodies in 100% (22/22) of ophthalmology (active infection) and 81.3% (26/32) of ophthalmology (past infection) patients, a total of 89% (48/54); and 80.8% (21/26) of OGP with an overall prevalence of 86.3% (69/80), including 7 ophthalmology patients' samples that were sero-negative for both DT and LAT. Antibody sero-positivity of the samples was determined by DT as 87% (47/54) in ophthalmology patients and 73.1% (19/26) in pregnant women, LAT as 85.2% (46/54) and 65.4% (17/26), and an overall prevalence as 82.5% (66/80) and 78.8% (63/80), respectively. The membrane-based ELISA systems appear promising but need to be investigated further for its efficacy as reliable diagnostic tests.
Evaluation of alternative school feeding models on nutrition, education, agriculture and other social outcomes in Ghana: rationale, randomised design and baseline data
(2016-01-20) Gelli, A.; Masset, E.; Folson, G.; Kusi, A.; Arhinful, D.K.; Asante, F.; Ayi, I.; Bosompem, K.M.; Watkins, K.; Abdul-Rahman, L.; Agble, R.; Ananse-Baden, G.; Mumuni, D.; Aurino, E.; Fernandes, M.; Drake, L.
Abstract Background ‘Home-grown’ school feeding programmes are complex interventions with the potential to link the increased demand for school feeding goods and services to community-based stakeholders, including smallholder farmers and women’s groups. There is limited rigorous evidence, however, that this is the case in practice. This evaluation will examine explicitly, and from a holistic perspective, the simultaneous impact of a national school meals programme on micronutrient status, alongside outcomes in nutrition, education and agriculture domains. The 3-year study involves a cluster-randomised control trial designed around the scale-up of the national school feeding programme, including 116 primary schools in 58 districts in Ghana. The randomly assigned interventions are: 1) a school feeding programme group, including schools and communities where the standard government programme is implemented; 2) ‘home-grown’ school feeding, including schools and communities where the standard programme is implemented alongside an innovative pilot project aimed at enhancing nutrition and agriculture; and 3) a control group, including schools and households from communities where the intervention will be delayed by at least 3 years, preferably without informing schools and households. Primary outcomes include child health and nutritional status, school participation and learning, and smallholder farmer income. Intermediate outcomes along the agriculture and nutrition pathways will also be measured. The evaluation will follow a mixed-method approach, including child-, household-, school- and community-level surveys as well as focus group discussions with project stakeholders. The baseline survey was completed in August 2013 and the endline survey is planned for November 2015. Results The tests of balance show significant differences in the means of a number of outcome and control variables across the intervention groups. Important differences across groups include marketed surplus, livestock income, per capita food consumption and intake, school attendance, and anthropometric status in the 2–5 and 5–15 years age groups. In addition, approximately 19 % of children in the target age group received some form of free school meals at baseline. Conclusion Designing and implementing the evaluation of complex interventions is in itself a complex undertaking, involving a multi-disciplinary research team working in close collaboration with programme- and policy-level stakeholders. Managing the complexity from an analytical and operational perspective is an important challenge. The analysis of the baseline data indicates that the random allocation process did not achieve statistically comparable treatment groups. Differences in outcomes and control variables across groups will be controlled for when estimating treatment effects. Trial registration number ISRCTN66918874 (registered on 5 March 2015).
Evaluation of field recognizable morbidity indicators of Schistosoma haematobium infection among primary school children in Ghana
(Russian Open Medical Journal, 2016) Tetteh, A.K.; Otchere, J.; Bimi, L.; Ayi, I.
Aim - This study was a retrospective evaluation of morbidity indicators and the use of questionnaire in decisions that relate to Schistosoma haematobium infection control among primary school children in Ghana. Materials and Methods - In all, 417 pupils in three primary schools (Kasseh sub-District, Dangme East District, Ghana), provided urine samples, which were examined for S. haematobium ova. The study utilized a structured questionnaire, the Urit 10V multi-stick urine reagent strips and the filtration method. Results - Overall, prevalence by microscopy was 20.9% (requires targeted treatment once every two years), and was higher (14.0%) among the 10-15 years age group (χ2=22.44, p<0.001). The lowest prevalence was among the <6 (0.5%, 2/417) and ≥19 (1.4%, 6/417) years age groups. There was no significant difference in prevalence among females (7.9%, 33/417) and males (12.9%, 54/417) (χ2=2.58, p=0.108). Self-reported haematuria was 43.2% (targeted treatment once a year). There was a significant difference between female (16.1%, 67/417) and male (27.1%, 113/417) responses to self-reported haematuria (χ2=4.170, p<0.001). A lower consolidated mean prevalence of 11.7% was estimated among pupils who had ova in their urine and also exhibited three morbidity indicators (haematuria, leucocyturia and proteinuria). Combined and averaged sensitivity and specificity estimations (sensitivity = 55.4%, specificity = 67.8%, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) = 53.4%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV) = 64.2%) of these morbidity indicators, was insufficient in equalizing the reliability of ova quantification. With the exception of leucocyturia, which was common among all pupils, 28.75% (25/87) of the infected individuals did not have any form of haematuria or proteinuria. Out of these, one pupil had heavy ova intensity (80 eggs/10ml of urine) while the remaining 24 had low ova intensity infection (1-44 eggs/10ml of urine). Questionnaire correctly identified 56.3% of pupils with S. haematobium ova in their urine, also reporting bloody urine (PPV=27.2%; NPV=84.0%). It also identified 49.4% of pupils with ova, reporting painful urination (PPV=26.1%, NPV=82.5%). Conclusion - This study emphasizes the relevance of evaluating the criteria for interpretation of morbidity indicators, prior to their field application. Questionnaire use remains key for surveillance purposes, to determine the presence of the infection in an area. Future studies should consolidate similar data elsewhere in Ghana for a better understanding of morbidity indicators and questionnaire use for decisions that relates to control strategies. © 2016, Tetteh A.K., Otchere J., Bimi L., Ayi I.
Gastrointestinal helminths in farmers and their ruminant livestock from the Coastal Savannah zone of Ghana
(Parasitology Research, 2018-10) Squire, S.A.; Yang, R.; Robertson, I.; Ayi, I.; Squire, D.S.; Ryan, U.
To identify the gastrointestinal helminths of veterinary, zoonotic and public health importance in farmers and their ruminant livestock in Ghana, faecal samples were collected from 95 farmers and their livestock (cattle = 328, sheep = 285 and goats = 217) and examined by microscopy and/or molecular techniques. Overall, 21 farmers tested positive for at least one gastrointestinal helminth, 80.9% of which were single infections and 19.0% co-infections. The parasites identified in the farmers consisted of hookworms (n = 13) (9 were Necator americanus and the other 4 could not be amplified by PCR), Trichostrongylus spp. (n = 9), Schistosoma mansoni (n = 1), Schistosoma haematobium (n = 1) and Diphyllobothrium latum (n = 1). In livestock, strongylid nematodes were dominant (56.6%), followed by Paramphistomum spp. (16.9%), Dicrocoelium spp. (7.1%), Thysaniezia spp. (5.8%), Trichuris spp. (3.3%), Moniezia spp. (3.1%), Fasciola spp. (2.8%), Toxocara spp. (1.1%) and Schistosoma spp. (0.2%). Genotyping of Trichostrongylus spp. in the farmer's stools identified six T. colubriformis similar to T. colubriformis detected in cattle, sheep and goats in the study, two Trichostrongylus spp. with 98.3% and 99.2% genetic similarity to T. probolurus respectively and one Trichostrongylus spp. which showed 96.6% similarity to both T. probolurus and T. rugatus. Trichostrongylus axei was also identified in cattle, sheep and goats. This is the first molecular characterisation of Trichostrongylus spp. in Ghana and the species identified in the present study suggests zoonotic transmission from cattle, sheep and goats. Further studies involving larger numbers of farmers and their household members are essential to understand the transmission dynamics and impact of these parasites on farming communities in Ghana.
Immunoproteomics identification of major IgE and IgG4 reactive schistosoma japonicum adult worm antigens using chronically infected human plasma
(Tropical Medicine and Health, 2012-09) Boamah, D.; Kikuchi, M.; Huy, N.T.; Okamoto, K.; Chen, H.; Ayi, I.; Boakye, D.A.; Bosompem, K.M.; Hirayama, K.
Imminoepidemilogical studies from endemic areas have revealed age-dependent resistance correlation with increased level of IgE and decreased level of IgG4 antibodies in responses to schistosomes' soluble worm antigen. However, there have been limited studies on analyses of major antigens that provoke IgE and IgG4 immune response during chronic stage of schistosomiasis. In this study, for the first time, immunoproteomics approach has been applied to identify S. japonicum worm antigens in liquid fractions that are recognized by IgE and IgG4 antibody using plasma from chronically infected population. ProteomeLabPF 2D fractionated 1-D and 2-D fractions of SWA antigens were screened using pooled high IgE/IgG4 reactive plasma samples by dot-blot technique. In 1-D fractions, IgE isotype was detected by fewer antigenic fractions (43.2%). The most recognized isotype was IgG3 (79.5%) followed by IgG1 (75.0%) and IgG4 (61.4%). Liquid chromatography MS/MS protein sequencing of reactive 2-D fractions revealed 18 proteins that were identified, characterized and gene ontology categories determined. 2-D fractions containing proteins such as zinc finger, RanBP2-type, domain-containing protein were strongly recognized by IgE and moderately by IgG4 whereas fractions containing proteins such as ubiquitinconjugating enzyme and cytosolic II 5'-nucleotidase strongly recognizing by IgG subclasses (IgG1, IgG3 and IgG4) but not IgE. By this study, a simple and reproducible proteomic method has been established to identify major immunoreactive S. japonicum antigens. It is anticipated that this will stimulate further research on the immunogenicity and protective potential of proteins identified as well as discovery of novel compounds that have therapeutic importance.© 2012 by The Japanese Society of Tropical Medicine.
Impact of Cowpea-Based Food Containing Fish Meal Served With Vitamin C–Rich Drink on Iron Stores and Hemoglobin Concentrations in Ghanaian Schoolchildren in a Malaria Endemic Area
(Food and nutrition bulletin, 2015-09) Egbi, G.; Ayi, I.; Saalia, F.K.; Zotor, F.; Adom, T.; Harrison, E.; Ahorlu, C.K.; Steiner-Asiedu, M.
Background: Nutritional anemia is a public health problem among Ghanaian schoolchildren. There is need to employ dietary modification strategies to solve this problem through school and household feeding programs. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of cowpea-based food containing fish meal served with vitamin C-rich drink to improve iron stores and hemoglobin concentrations in Ghanaian schoolchildren. Methods: The study involved cross-sectional baseline and nutrition intervention phases. There were 150 participants of age 6 to 12 years. They were randomly assigned to 3 groups, fish meal -vitamin C (n = 50), vitamin C (n = 50), and control (n = 50), and given different cowpea-based diets for a 6-month period. Height and weight measurements were done according to the standard procedures, dietary data were obtained by 24-hour recall and food frequency questionnaire, hemoglobin concentrations were determined by Hemocue Hemoglobinometer, and serum ferritin and complement-reactive protein (CRP) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Participants' blood samples were examined for malaria parasitemia and stools for helminthes using Giemsa stain and Kato-Katz techniques, respectively. Results: Mean ferritin concentration was not significantly different among groups. End line mean or change in hemoglobin concentrations between fish meal-vitamin C group (128.4 ± 7.2/8.3 ± 10.6 g/L) and control (123.1 ± 6.6/4.2 ± 10.4 g/L) were different, P < .05. Change in prevalence of anemia in fish meal-vitamin C group (19.5%) was different compared to those of vitamin C group (9.3%) and the control (12.2%). Levels of malaria parasitemia and high CRP among study participants at baseline and end line were 58% and 80% then 55% and 79%, respectively. Level of hookworm infestation was 13%. Conclusion: Cowpea-based food containing 3% fish meal and served with vitamin C-rich drink improved hemoglobin concentration and minimized the prevalence of anemia among the study participant (PDF) Impact of Cowpea-Based Food Containing Fish Meal Served With Vitamin C-Rich Drink on Iron Stores and Hemoglobin Concentrations in Ghanaian Schoolchildren in a Malaria Endemic Area. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282045286_Impact_of_Cowpea-Based_Food_Containing_Fish_Meal_Served_With_Vitamin_C-Rich_Drink_on_Iron_Stores_and_Hemoglobin_Concentrations_in_Ghanaian_Schoolchildren_in_a_Malaria_Endemic_Area [accessed Sep 12 2018].
The Incidence, Intensity, and Risk Factors for Soil Transmissible Helminthes Infections among Waste Handlers in a Large Coastal Periurban Settlement in Southern Ghana
(Hindawi, 2021) Kretchy, J.; Dzodzomenyo, M.; Ayi, I.; Dwomoh, D.; Agyabeng, K.; Konradsen, F.; Dalsgaard, A.
Soil-transmissible helminthes (STH) infections are among the most common sanitation-related public health problems in poor periurban settlements of tropical regions of low- and middle-income countries. In Ghana, research studies documenting the incidence rate, intensity, and occupational risk factors of STH infections among adults are scanty. A prospective cohort study of 261 waste handlers was conducted to investigate this. Stool samples were collected after 90 and 180 days of treatment with albendazole (400 mg per dose). The geometric mean intensity of STH among waste handlers after 180 days of treatment was 2.8 eggs/gram (light intensity), with an incidence rate of 1.5%. The proportion of waste handlers with light intensity STH infections was 4.8%. The odds of STH infection among female waste handlers were 80% lower when compared with male waste handlers (aOR = 0.2; 95% CI: 0.0–0.8). Waste handlers who used rubber gloves when working were 80% (aOR = 0.2: 95% CI: 0.2–1.9) protected from STH infections compared with those who did not use gloves. Infections with STH among the 261 waste handlers significantly correlated with the type of waste handling activities (LR χ2 =15.3; p = 0.033) with the highest proportion of infection found among transporters, 2 (40%). Waste handlers should receive periodic antihelminthic treatment, at least once every six months, practice adequate hand hygiene, and use suitable personal protective equipment during work.
Increased ShTAL1 IgE responses post- Praziquantel treatment may be associated with a reduced risk to re-infection in a Ghanaian S. haematobium-endemic community
(PLOS NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES, 2022) Asuming-Brempong, E.K.; Ayi, I.; van der Puije, W.; Gyan, B.A.; Larb, I.A.; Ashong, Y.; Frempong, N.A.; Quartey, J.K.; Otchere, J.; Jones, F.M.; Wilson, S.; Dunne, D.W.; Boakye, D.A.
Background Evidence from recent studies in Schistosoma mansoni-endemic areas show an age-associated immunity that is positively correlated with IgE titres to Schistosoma mansoni-specific tegumental allergen-like protein 1 (SmTAL1). The structural homology between SmTAL1 and the S. haematobium-specific TAL1 (ShTAL1) has been verified, yet it remains unclear whether similar age- and immune-associated trends characterize ShTAL1. This communitybased intervention study was conducted to assess whether ShTAL1IgE responses posttreatment with praziquantel (PZQ) might be associated with a reduced risk to re-infection with S. haematobium. Methodology/Principal findings This study was conducted at Agona Abodom, Central Region, Ghana, and involved 114 participants aged 6 to 55 years. EDTA blood samples were collected at baseline and 7 weeks after PZQ treatment (Follow-up). Baseline and Follow-up titres of specific IgG1, IgG4, and IgE antibodies to the S. haematobium-specific adult worm antigen (ShAWA), the Sh-specific soluble egg antigen (ShSEA), and the Sh-specific tegumental-allergen-like 1 protein (ShTAL1) in plasma samples were measured using sandwich ELISA. Participants at both time points also provided stool and urine for helminth egg detection by microscopy. Prevalence of S. haematobium at baseline was 22.80%, and decreased to 3.50% at Follow-up.The egg reduction rate (ERR) was 99.87%. Overall plasma levels of ShTAL1-IgE increased 7 weeks post-PZQ treatment, and with increasing age; whiles S. haematobium infection prevalence and intensity decreased. For S. haematobium-infected participants who were egg-negative at Follow-up (N = 23), minimal median levels of ShTAL1-IgE were observed for all age groups prior to treatment, whilst median levels increased considerably among participants aged 12 years and older at Follow-up; and remained minimal among participants aged 11 years or less. In the univariate analysis, being aged 12 years or older implied an increased likelihood for ShTAL1-IgE positivity [12–14 years (cOR = 9.64, 95% CI = 2.09– 44.51; p = 0.004); 15+ years (cOR = 14.26, 95% CI = 3.10–65.51; p = 0.001)], and this remained significant after adjusting for confounders [12–14 years (aOR = 22.34, 95% CI = 2.77–180.14; p = 0.004); 15 years (aOR = 51.82, 95% CI = 6.44–417.17; p < 0.001)]. Conversely, median ShTAL1-IgG4 titres were hardly detectible at Follow-up.Conclusions/Significance These findings demonstrate that increased IgE levels to ShTAL1 7 weeks after PZQ treatment could be associated with a reduced risk to re-infection, and adds to the large body of evidence suggesting a protective role of the treatment-induced ShTAL1 antigen in schistosomiasis infections. It was also quite clear from this work that apart from being persistently S. haematobium-positive, elevated ShTAL1-IgG4 levels at Follow-up could be indicative of susceptibility to re-infection. These outcomes have important implications in vaccine development, and in shifting the paradigm in mass chemotherapy programmes from a ‘one-sizefits- all’ approach to more sub-group-/participant-specific strategies in endemic areas.
Infection risk factors associated with seropositivity for Toxoplasma gondii in a population-based study in the Central Region, Ghana
(Epidemiology and Infection, 2014-11) Abu, E.K.; Boampong, J.N.; Ayi, I.; Ghartey-Kwansah, G.; Afoakwah, R.; Nsiah, P.; Blay, E.
About 20-90% of the world's population has had contact with Toxoplasma gondii parasites. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in the Central Region, Ghana. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in three selected communities. Serum samples were tested for the presence of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA. A serological criterion for seropositivity was a positive test result for any of the two anti-Toxoplasma IgG or IgM antibodies or a combination of both. In all, 390 participants of mean age 47·0 years consisting of 118 (30·3%) males and 272 (69·7%) females were tested. The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii was 85% (333/390) where fishermen, farmers and fishmongers, respectively, had the highest seropositivity. IgG and IgM antibodies were detected in 329 (84%) and 25 (6%), respectively, while both IgG and IgM antibodies were detected in 21 (5%) of the participants. Respectively, 1% (4/390) and 79% (308/390) of participants tested positive for IgM-only and IgG-only antibodies. There was a significant relationship between Toxoplasma seropositivity and contact with soil, presence of a cat in the surrounding area, age, sources of drinking water, level of formal education, and socioeconomic status. The results suggest that the seashore may serve as a good ground for sporulation and survival of Toxoplasma oocysts. Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2014.
Insights into the mode of action of 1,2,6,7-tetraoxaspiro [7.11] nonadecane (N-89) against adult Schistosoma mansoni worms
(Parasitology International, 2018-08) Blay, E.A.; Kumagai, T.; Yamabe, M.; Hino, A.; Shimogawara, R.; Kim, H.S.; Sato, A.; Ichimura, K.; Ayi, I.; Iwanaga, S.; Ohta, N.
Control of morbidity associated with schistosomiasis via chemotherapy largely relies on the drug praziquantel. Repeated therapy with praziquantel has created concerns about the possible selection of resistant worms and necessitated the search for novel drugs to treat schistosomiasis. Here, a murine model was infected with Schistosoma mansoni and treated with oral 1,2,6,7-tetraoxaspiro [7.11] nonadecane (N-89), which caused a significant reduction in fecundity and egg burden and reduced morbidity when administered at 5-weeks post-infection. The analysis showed that the mode of action occurred through the ingestion of activated N-89 by the worms, and that there was no direct external effect on the S. mansoni worms. Ultrastructural analysis of the treated worms showed disruptions in the gut lumen and the presence of large volumes of material, suggestive of undigested blood meals or red blood cells. In addition, there were reduced vitelline cells in female worms and damage to sub-tegmental musculature in male worms. Eggs recovered from the treated mice showed both damage to the eggs and the production of immature eggs. Expression of mRNA responsible for gut and digestive function and egg production was also significantly affected by N-89 treatment, whereas control genes for musculature showed no significant changes. Thus, N-89 drastically affected the total digestive function and egg production of S. mansoni worms. Physiological processes requiring heme uptake such as egg production and eggshell formation were subsequently affected, suggesting that the compound could be a possible therapeutic drug candidate for schistosomiasis control.
Joint research project on infectious diseases in West-African subregion
(Journal of Disaster Research, 2014-10) Ido, E.; Suzuki, T.; Ampofo, W.K.; Ayi, I.; Yamaoka, S.; Koram, K.A.; Ohta, N.
A research collaboration project in Ghana has joined the MEXT program supported by the Japanese government since 2008. The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), the University of Ghana, and Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) are core parties in the project, and researchers from other institutions also participate temporarily. Two TMDU faculty members are sent to Ghana to manage and implement joint research projects for virology and parasitology, which cover HIV, African trypanosomes, malaria parasites, and vector insects. Along with joint research, mutual exchange activities for young researchers and students have been promoted to develop human resources in tropical infectious disease research. Subjects in our project are all public health concerns both in Ghana and West-Africa and in other parts of the world. Our joint projects have strengthened and promoted global information networks on infectious diseases and the health and welfare of the residents of Ghana and Japan. © 2014, Journal of Disaster Research. All rights reserved.
Limited field evaluation of a rapid monoclonal antibody-based dipstick assay for urinary schistosomiasis.
(Hybridoma, 1996) Bosompem, K.M.; Ayi, I.; Anyan, W.K.; Nkrumah, F.K.; Kojima, S.
A rapid, visually read monoclonal antibody (MoAb)-based dipstick assay for specific diagnosis of urinary schistosomiasis was field tested with microscopy and the use of hematuria and proteinuria in a schistosomiasis hematobia endemic area in Southern Ghana. The study group consisted of 229 individuals (114 males and 115 females) aged 1 to 86 years; 145/229 (63.3%) of the subjects submitted stool samples from which no S. mansoni eggs were detected. However, infections with Necator americanus (hookworms) 33.1%, Ascaris lumbricoides 2.8%, Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) 2.8%, and Strongyloides stercoralis 0.7% were detected but did not appear to influence the results of the MoAb-dipstick assay. Urinary schistosomiasis prevalence was estimated as 47.6% by microscopy, 48% by MoAb-dipstick, 39.7% by microhematuria, and 23.6% by proteinuria. The MoAb-dipstick correctly identified 108/109 (99.1%) of microscopically confirmed cases and 118/120 (98.3%) of egg-negative individuals, thereby giving a sensitivity of 99.1% and a specificity of 98.3%. On the other hand, microhematuria and proteinuria were, respectively, 76.1% and 40.4% sensitive, and 94.2% and 92.5% specific when compared to microscopy. Microhematuria and proteinuria had significantly lower sensitivity (P < 0.001) than either microscopy or dipstick.