International Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Bridging Immunology and Global Health: Innovations for Emerging Infectious Threats230585ENHadiEsmaeili GouvarchinghalehExecutive Manager, Assistant Professor of Immunology, Applied Virology Research Center, Biomedicine Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences0000-0001-8562-2295Journal Article20250927https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_230585_e97818f731a78909b18b4941ed94e6b0.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Zoonotic Fish-Borne Infections in the Context of Sea Travel: Prevention and Control Measures14214822133010.30491/ijtmgh.2025.518724.1473ENMohammad RezaHeydariDepartment of Veterinary Medicine, Shabestar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar, Iran.0009-0003-4837-4298SamanBoostaniDepartment of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch. Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.0009-0000-6252-1272Seyed KiarashAghayanApplied Virology Research Center, Biomedicine Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.0000-0002-8165-1344Journal Article20250423Zoonotic diseases associated with sea travel pose a serious threat to public health due to increased international traffic and the movement of aquatic animals. These diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans, are particularly complex because of the diversity of transmission routes and the absence of symptoms in many aquatic organisms. Risk factors include ecological changes, human demographic and behavioral characteristics, and the inefficiency of public health systems. Climate change and environmental degradation may lead to the emergence of new diseases in marine plants and animals. To prevent and control infectious diseases, multiple monitoring systems and control strategies have been designed by the WHO and WOAH. Public education and raising awareness among the medical community are key factors in the prevention and control of these diseases. Additionally, hand hygiene and the use of low-risk methods for greetings on cruise ships are recommended. Identifying transmission routes, assessing risks, and developing preventive strategies with a One Health approach are essential measures to combat these threats. However, research gaps and the lack of epidemiological data hinder the development of effective policies. The future of this field requires scientific investment and international collaboration to enhance preparedness against zoonotic diseases related to sea travel.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221330_ba3e1008f20853eb1145d4cd24f25854.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Aedes Mosquito and Dengue Fever: A Dangerous Connection in Global Health, A review article12913422185710.30491/ijtmgh.2024.487943.1441ENZahraMoghadamDepartment of Biology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.BitaAvarkiDepartment of Biology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.ZahraFalah ParviziDepartment of Biology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.ParinazRabieeDepartment of Biology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.ShabnamBahramiDepartment of Biology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20241110Dengue fever is a viral disease primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, notably Southeast Asia and Latin America, affecting millions of people annually. The disease presents with symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, and joint pain, and can lead to severe complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. The increasing global travel to these endemic areas poses a significant risk for travelers, who may contract the virus and inadvertently introduce it to non-endemic regions. As climate change expands the habitats of Aedes mosquitoes, the potential for dengue outbreaks in new areas rises. Understanding the characteristics of dengue fever, the life cycle of its vectors, and effective prevention strategies is crucial for mitigating its impact on global health. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these aspects to enhance awareness and promote preventive measures among travelers.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221857_d46f2dc8d003b24296cd54afc19c1267.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Investigating genes encoding pln A and pln EF bacteriocins from lactobacilli isolated from traditional dairy products14915422089410.30491/ijtmgh.2024.481795.1436ENSinaDabirDepartment of Microbiology, Bonab Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bonab, IranZahraHojjati BonabDepartment of Microbiology, Bonab Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bonab, Iran.HosseinSoltanzadehMedical Plants Research Center, Maragheh University of Medical Sciences, Maragheh, IranJournal Article20241004Introduction: Lactobacilli are long, gram-positive bacilli. The food industry widely uses lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as natural preservatives due to their ability to produce antibacterial compounds such as bacteriocins. The purpose of this study is to investigate the genes and beneficial lactobacilli from traditional yogurt and cheese of northwestern Iran in 1401.<br />Methods: For this purpose, 29 samples of traditional dairy products, including 18 samples of cheese and 11 samples of yogurt, were collected under sterile conditions and inoculated in MRS culture medium. Additional tests were performed to identify them and molecular PCR tests were performed to detect the presence of plnA, plnEF genes in the isolates. In this research, after isolating Lactobacillus from traditional yogurt and cheese samples, the presence of plnEF bacteriocin gene was confirmed in 7 Lactobacillus isolates and the absence of plnA gene in the isolates. <br />Results: In previous studies that succeeded in isolating Lactobacillus strains from traditional dairy products, plantaricin EF is present in all pln positions. In this research, after Lactobacillus was isolated from samples, two genes encoding bacteriocin plnA and plnEF were investigated in Lactobacillus isolates, plnEF was present in all of them and plnA was not present in any of the isolates. Bacteriocins induce beneficial health properties in probiotic products.<br />Conclusion: we succeeded in isolating and identifying lactobacilli from the traditional yogurt and cheese of the northwestern region of the country by the method of culture and biochemical identification and isolation based on PCR.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_220894_ecbd56fb81b122d8e94d4a62271313fb.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Providing a Model for Quality Management of E-Learning in Clinical Departments15517221859710.30491/ijtmgh.2025.510722.1465ENLeilaVosough BeneKohlPhD student, Department of Educational Governance and Human Capital, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran,Iran.BaharakShirzad KebriaAssociate Professor, Department of Educational Governance and Human Capital, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranFatemehHamidifarAssociate Professor, Department of Educational Governance and Human Capital, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranAbbasKhorshidiProfessor, Department of Educational Governance and Human Capital, CT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran,Iran.Journal Article20250305Introduction<br /><br />The present study aimed to design a model for quality e-learning management in clinical departments of military medical sciences universities.<br /><br />Methods<br /><br />This research was applied in terms of objectives, qualitative data type, grounded theory in nature, and study type. The population included experts and academic professors with experience in e-learning. Using a purposive sampling of the theoretical kind until reaching theoretical saturation, 19 individuals were selected. Data collection tools were semi-structured interviews. The validity of the measurement tool was achieved through interviews, the Delphi technique, and brainstorming, while reliability was determined using Holsti's coefficient. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA2020 software in three stages: open, axial, and selective coding.<br /><br />Results<br /><br />The findings led to the identification of 5 dimensions, 18 components, and 104 indicators in the form of an emerging model. The dimensions include the standard Dimensions, which are components (teaching-learning management, instructor's professional competence, learner characteristics, educational content, teaching methods, and learner assessment methods). Planning Dimension: Components (analysis, objectives, strategies, resource management). Information Technology Dimension: Components (infrastructure, system design, information systems). Continuous Quality Improvement Dimension: Components (quality control, quality assurance, quality enhancement). Evaluation Dimension: Components (internal evaluation, external evaluation).<br /><br />Conclusion<br /><br />The study developed a comprehensive model for quality management of e-learning in clinical departments, which can serve as a framework for improving the quality of e-learning in medical sciences universities of the armed forces.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_218597_83caa016a0e742556c562a659491ecc8.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Detection of aggR and agg4A Genes and Antibiotic Resistance Profiles in Biofilm-Forming Escherichia coli Clinical Isolates from Miandoab Hospitals13514122089510.30491/ijtmgh.2025.519504.1474ENMarjanBagheriDepartment of Microbiology, Bon.C., Islamic Azad University, Bonab, Iran.ZahraHojjati BonabDepartment of Microbiology, Bonab Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bonab, Iran.HosseinSoltanzadehIslamic Azad University, Bonab, East azarbayjan, IranJournal Article20250426Background: Escherichia coli (E.coli)is a non-pathogenic facultative bacterium that is the predominant pathogen in the human intestine, however, some of its strains are known to be the cause of many human infections. The major adhesins of enteroaggregative strains has aggR gene encodes AAF-I. This strain has too agg4A encodes AAF-IV, each of which has a specific role. Various factors, such as the high volume of antibiotic use, poor hygiene conditions contribute to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance.<br />Material and Methods:Urine samples were taken from 100 patients referred to Miandoab Hospital in Iran and cultured in Eosin methylene blue(EMB) selective culture medium. E. coli differential test was performed for positive samples. Antibiogram test was used to investigate antibiotic resistance. PCR was performed for investigation the presence of aggR and agg4A genes<br />Results: In this study, 80% of the samples were resistant to the antibiotic ampicillin and 20% were sensitive to the antibiotic ampicillin. In this study, 20% of the samples formed weak biofilm, 20% of the samples formed medium biofilm, 50% of the samples formed strong biofilm, and 10% of the samples formed very strong biofilm. One sample (5%) had the aggR gene and six samples (30%) had the agg4A gene.<br />Conclusion: According to the results of this study, aggR and agg4A, as genes effective in biofilm biosynthesis, have different effects on biofilm formation of clinical isolates of E.coli by PCR method, and these effects are exerted through the influence on the expression of genes involved in biofilm formation.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_220895_6fa95572642b30061d766428a6cf581e.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Medical Migration and Transplant Tourism Economy: A Case Study of Nigeria18419322185410.30491/ijtmgh.2024.478873.1431ENMustaphaIsaInstitute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, Nigeria0009-0009-8800-9731Journal Article20240917Medical migration and transplant tourism are two phenomena in the global healthcare dynamics that present significant ethical, economic, and policy challenges. This paper focused on the intersection between these trends, particularly in the Nigerian context. The study examined three key research questions: What drives transplant tourism and medical migration? How do they affect the healthcare systems of sending and receiving countries? What are the ethical, legal, and economic issues involved in transplant tourism? Using a case study approach, the paper explored Nigerian medical professionals and patients migrating abroad for better opportunities and care, as well as the influx of foreign transplant patients to Nigerian hospitals. Through a detailed analysis of economic disparity, healthcare infrastructure, and global health governance, this paper traced the history and dynamics of healthcare migration, drawing on both contemporary and historical contexts of medical tourism. The research objectives are to understand the historical trajectory of healthcare migration, analyse the socio-economic and healthcare drivers behind transplant tourism, and assess its broader impacts on healthcare systems in both source and destination countries. The case study methodological approach employed in the study assessed the dynamics of Nigerian outbound and inbound medical migration/transplant tourism, contributing to the discourse of global healthcare and providing insights into the implications of medical migration and transplant tourism, especially in developing economies. The paper concluded by offering policy recommendations to reduce the adverse effects of these practices while using their potentials for the development of the healthcare system in Nigeria and other low- and middle-income countries.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221854_e327777527a0a2e81590d7212a9be8a6.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Tackling Uganda’s Medical Expenditures Abroad, a Choice Dilemma of Going Public, Private or Public-Private Partnership17318322186110.30491/ijtmgh.2025.491661.1444ENAliyiWalimbwaTexila American University, Guyana, USA and Ministry of Health, Uganda, Kampala, UgandaEmmanuelOtienoUganda People‟s Defence Forces, Kampala, Uganda and School of Public Health, Gudie University Project Kampala, Uganda0000-0002-8879-2414RobertBasazaSchool of Public Health, Gudie University Project Kampala, UgandaJournal Article20241204Abstract <br />Introduction: This study explored the tackling of Uganda’s medical expenditures abroad, a choice dilemma of going public, private or public-private partnership. The study described the commonest conditions and reasons for referrals abroad, estimated Uganda’s medical expenditures on referrals abroad from the FY 2017/18 to 2023/24. The paper examines the reasons why Government is the most preferred approach in reducing medical expenditures abroad.<br />Methods: An exploratory, cross-sectional mixed study design was conducted in Uganda. It was carried out from 1 September 2023 to 29 August 2024. Stratified sampling and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 34 participants. Key informant interview media analysis and desk review of data were done. Quantitative data was analysed using SPSS version 16.0 and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Ethical considerations were done.<br />Results: The cost estimated for medical referral by government to other countries in the financial years 2021/2022 to 2023/2024 was Ug Shs. 26,596,082,700 (USD. 7.29 million) covering 399 patients. The highest proportion of patients referred were 41.6% in the FY 2022/2023, and the commonest conditions referred were congenital heart abnormalities and other cardiac conditions at 73.1% followed by the kidney transplant at 9%.<br />Conclusion: High expenditures on medical referrals abroad lead to a significant flight of forex and referrals abroad largely due to lack of adequate health care services. Government led interventions is the most preferred policy option to reduce Uganda’s high medical expenditures incurred abroad especially on government officials. <br />Keywords: Medical Tourism, Medical expenditures abroad, health insurance, private-public partnership, Uganda.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221861_bd7130b2effed302466c931b0bf4fae0.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Examining Differences in Body Image and Self-Empowerment between Individuals with and without Kidney Stones21221922185510.30491/ijtmgh.2024.480380.1434ENFatemehTavakoliHealth Psychology, Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-5909-7762Gholam AliAfroozDepartment of Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.ImanGhanaatDepartment of Urology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IranHamidKazemi-ZahraniDepartment of Psychology, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20240925Introduction: The purpose of this research was to examine the differences in body image and self-empowerment between individuals with and without kidney stones.<br />Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on individuals with and without kidney stones in Isfahan. The sample was purposively selected, consisting of 384 participants with kidney stones and 384 participants without. Data collection tools included the Fisher Body Image Scale (FBIS) and the Short Form of the Empowerment Scale (ES-SF). Data were analyzed using SPSS-24 and AMOS-24 through variance analysis and multivariate analysis of variance.<br />Findings: The results showed that there are differences in body image and self-empowerment between individuals with and without kidney stones. The magnitude of these differences was 0.41 and 0.32, respectively.<br />Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that there are differences in body image and self-empowerment scores between individuals with and without kidney stones. The satisfaction with body image and self-empowerment actions were higher and more favorable in individuals without kidney stones compared to those with kidney stones.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221855_aba2a0c0a723c0db8b853d9088615d64.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Routine drug and alcohol testing in a large maritime container terminal in Costa Rica20621122185610.30491/ijtmgh.2024.485301.1438ENOlaf CJensenCentre for Maritime Health and Society, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Degnevej 14, 6705 Esbjerg, Denmark0000-0001-7672-9891AlejandroMartínezEmergency Department, San Vicente de Paul Hospital
Heredia, Costa Rica:0000-0002-6441-6625Journal Article20241024The medical clinic at Moín Container Terminal in Costa Rica has three or four doctors and a nurse. They work in rotation shifts and are open 24 hours a day to dockworkers. The goal was to study the traits of workers sent for drug and alcohol testing at a medical clinic. This happened over 5 months because of concerns about abuse.<br /><br />Materials and methods<br />Anonymous patient records from the medical clinic were analyzed. Of a total of 3050 visits to the clinic (n=673) were selected be tested for doping (ICD-10 Z03.6).<br /><br />Results <br />The number of seafarers found positive for alcohol was n=2 (0.3%) and n=31(4.6%) positive for drugs. Other reasons to visit the clinic were mostly diseases of the musculoskeletal system, abnormal clinical and laboratory symptoms, injuries, and digestive system diseases. <br /><br />Conclusions <br />The number of seafarers who tested positive for alcohol and drugs was low. However, this is still important for safe driving in the harbor. We could not assess the relative risks associated with different work tasks. This was due to a lack of information about the population distribution in those tasks. Inconsistencies in the coding system make analysis difficult. A drop-down menu could help improve the digital registration system and reduce errors. <br />Keywords: <br />Shipping; drugs; alcohol; epidemiology; container; transport.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221856_4f88489c0312fedf193282b538d06f5b.pdfInternational Travel Medicine Center of IranInternational Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health2322-110013320250901Designing a Conceptual Model for the development of health tourism in the country: A Grounded Theory Approach19420522186010.30491/ijtmgh.2024.489070.1442ENSamiraLoghman EstarkiPh.D. in management (system), Faculty of Management and Accounting, Tehran University, Qom, Iran.0000-0001-5349-1892Journal Article20241115Introduction: the purpose of this research is to identify the main components and dimensions of health tourism development in the country and to present a model using a qualitative method based on the Grounded Theory approach.<br />Methods: In terms of purpose, this research is fundamental, and in terms of nature, it falls under the category of qualitative research (Grounded Theory). Regarding the results, it is part of exploratory studies. The statistical population under study consists of eleven experts.The tool for collecting research data is interviews, and the selection of research participants was conducted using the purposeful sampling method. For data analysis, the method of content analysis was employed, based on open coding, axial coding, and selective coding.<br />Results: Based on the results obtained, the development of health tourism in the country is influenced by causal conditions (quality of healthcare services, cost, credibility of medical services, health accommodation services, tourism services, and transportation), contextual reasons (natural, social, legal, and political factors), intervening factors (organizational, insurance affairs, banking affairs, and informal and underground activities), a central category (health tourism development), strategies (advertising, government support for the private sector, health tourism training, HIS development, consultation and relationship development, infrastructure development, and creating tourist loyalty and trust), and consequences (improving the quality of life, economic development, promotion of community culture, and environmental development). <br />Conclusion: It is expected that the conceptual model presented in this research will serve as a suitable roadmap for the development of the country's health tourism industry.https://www.ijtmgh.com/article_221860_03990ef80136711ba4087daa73ac4daa.pdf