Total, free, and complexed prostate-specific antigen level among US men, 2007-2010
Lacher DA , Hughes JP . Clin Chim Acta 2015 448 220-7 BACKGROUND: Screening for prostate cancer using prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is common. Prostate cancer has been associated with higher total PSA (tPSA), lower free PSA (fPSA), lower percent free PSA (%fPSA), and higher complexed PSA (cPSA). METHODS: Total, free and complexed PSA were performed on 3251 men ≥40 y in the 2007-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Distributions of the PSA tests were examined by age, race and ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI) groups. Percentages of men at PSA thresholds were examined. RESULTS: Total PSA geometric mean was 0.96 ug/l among men aged ≥40 y and increased from 0.74 mug/l for men 40-49 y, to 1.82 mug/l for men 80 y and older. Non-Hispanic whites had lower age-adjusted mean tPSA (1.03 mug/l) and cPSA (0.56 mug/l) than non-Hispanic blacks (tPSA 1.25 mug/l and cPSA 0.72 mug/l). Obese men had lower age-adjusted mean total, free and complexed PSA (0.94, 0.27, and 0.51 mug/l, respectively) than men with normal BMI (tPSA 1.21, fPSA 0.32, and cPSA 0.68 mug/l, respectively). CONCLUSION: Total, free and complexed PSA increased with age; tPSA and cPSA were highest in non-Hispanic blacks; and total, free, and complexed PSA were lowest in obese men. |
Multiple chronic conditions and labor force outcomes: a population study of U.S. adults
Ward BW . Am J Ind Med 2015 58 (9) 943-54 BACKGROUND: Although 1-in-5 adults have multiple (≥2) chronic conditions, limited attention has been given to the association between multiple chronic conditions and employment. METHODS: Cross-sectional data (2011 National Health Interview Survey) and multivariate regression analyses were used to examine the association among multiple chronic conditions, employment, and labor force outcomes for U.S. adults aged 18-64 years, controlling for covariates. RESULTS: Among U.S. adults aged 18-64 years (unweighted, n = 25,458), having multiple chronic conditions reduced employment probability by 11-29%. Some individual chronic conditions decreased employment probability. Among employed adults (unweighted, n = 16,096), having multiple chronic conditions increased the average number of work days missed due to injury/illness in the past year by 3-9 days. CONCLUSIONS: Multiple chronic conditions are a barrier to employment and increase the number of work days missed, placing affected individuals at a financial disadvantage. Researchers interested in examining consequences of multiple chronic conditions should give consideration to labor force outcomes. |
Provider beliefs associated with cervical cancer screening interval recommendations: a pilot study in Federally Qualified Health Centers
Roland KB , Greek A , Hawkins NA , Lin L , Benard VB . Prev Med Rep 2015 2 444-447 BACKGROUND: Among providers who serve low-income and uninsured women, resistance to extending the cervical cancer screening interval following normal Pap and co-test results has been documented. Our objective was to examine provider characteristics and beliefs associated with guideline-consistent screening interval recommendations. METHOD: We collected cross-sectional survey data between 2009 and 2010 from 82 primary care providers in six Federally Qualified Health Centers in Illinois, USA. The relationships between characteristics, beliefs, and screening interval recommendations (1. year vs. 3. years) were tested with Pearson chi-square, negative binomial and ordered logistic regression. RESULTS: Compared to providers who recommended annual intervals after a normal co-test, providers who recommended a guideline-consistent (i.e., 3. years) screening interval were significantly more likely to report the goodness, ease, and benefit of their recommendation and perceived encouragement for a 3-year interval from professional organizations and journals (p < .05). Providers who recommended a 3-year interval were also less likely to report that longer intervals increase patient risk for cervical cancer (p < .05). Interval recommendations were not associated with provider specialty, gender, or years in practice. CONCLUSION: Messages that promote the benefits of longer screening intervals after a normal co-test, the natural history of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer, and low risk of developing cancer with a longer interval may be useful to promote evidence-based screening in this population of Federally Qualified Health Center providers. Dissemination of targeted messages through professional journals and specialty organizations should be considered. |
Annual incidence of knee symptoms and four knee osteoarthritis outcomes in the Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project
Murphy LB , Moss S , Do BT , Helmick CG , Schwartz TA , Barbour KE , Renner J , Kalsbeek W , Jordan JM . Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2015 68 (1) 55-65 OBJECTIVE: To estimate annual incidence rates (IR) of knee symptoms and four knee OA outcomes (radiographic, symptomatic, severe radiographic and severe symptomatic) overall and stratified by socio-demographic characteristics and knee OA risk factors. METHODS: We analyzed baseline [1991-1997] and first follow-up [1999-2003] data (n=1,518) from Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project. Participants are black and white adults ≥ 45 years living in Johnston County, North Carolina, US. Knee symptoms were pain, aching, or stiffness on most days in a knee. Radiographic OA was K-L grade ≥ 2 (severe radiographic ≥3) in at least one knee. Symptomatic OA was symptoms in a radiographically affected knee; severe symptomatic OA was severe symptoms and severe radiographic OA. RESULTS: The median follow-up time was 5.5 years. Average annual IRs were: symptoms=6%, radiographic OA=3%, symptomatic OA=2%, severe radiographic OA=2%, and severe symptomatic OA=0.8%. Across outcomes, IRs were highest among those with the following baseline characteristics: age ≥ 75 years; obese; a history of knee injury; or an annual household income ≤ $15,000. CONCLUSION: The annual onset of knee symptoms and four OA outcomes in Johnston County was high. This may preview the future of knee OA in the US and underscores the urgency of clinical and public health collaborations that reduce risk factors for, and manage the impact of, these outcomes. Inexpensive, convenient and proven strategies (e.g., physical activity, self-management education courses) complement clinical care, and can reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with arthritis. |
Communication practices about HPV testing among providers in Federally Qualified Health Centers
Lin L , Benard VB , Greek A , Roland KB , Hawkins NA , Saraiya M . Prev Med Rep 2015 2 436-439 OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the information providers share with patients when ordering a co-test, or combined human papillomavirus (HPV) and Papanicolaou (Pap) test, for cervical cancer screening. We assessed provider perceptions of such communication practices with female patients aged 30-60. years. METHODS: We analyzed data from 98 providers in 15 Federally Qualified Health Center clinics across Illinois (2009-2010). RESULTS: About 70% of the providers reported that when ordering a co-test, they would usually or always communicate information about the HPV test to their patients, explain the test detects a sexually transmitted infection, and discuss how the test results may determine their next screening interval. Most (> 85%) reported that they were comfortable discussing co-test results. Compared with concordant positive results (HPV positive/Pap positive), providers were more likely to perceive that discordant results (HPV positive/Pap negative) would be too complex for patients to understand (25% vs. 15%, p = 0.006), and make patients feel less assured that they were getting the best standard of care (67% vs. 88%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: As HPV testing plays a more prominent role in cervical cancer screening, more attention should be given to communications between providers and patients about the benefits and harms of different screening options. |
Ebola Virus Epidemiology, Transmission, and Evolution during Seven Months in Sierra Leone.
Park DJ , Dudas G , Wohl S , Goba A , Whitmer SL , Andersen KG , Sealfon RS , Ladner JT , Kugelman JR , Matranga CB , Winnicki SM , Qu J , Gire SK , Gladden-Young A , Jalloh S , Nosamiefan D , Yozwiak NL , Moses LM , Jiang PP , Lin AE , Schaffner SF , Bird B , Towner J , Mamoh M , Gbakie M , Kanneh L , Kargbo D , Massally JL , Kamara FK , Konuwa E , Sellu J , Jalloh AA , Mustapha I , Foday M , Yillah M , Erickson BR , Sealy T , Blau D , Paddock C , Brault A , Amman B , Basile J , Bearden S , Belser J , Bergeron E , Campbell S , Chakrabarti A , Dodd K , Flint M , Gibbons A , Goodman C , Klena J , McMullan L , Morgan L , Russell B , Salzer J , Sanchez A , Wang D , Jungreis I , Tomkins-Tinch C , Kislyuk A , Lin MF , Chapman S , MacInnis B , Matthews A , Bochicchio J , Hensley LE , Kuhn JH , Nusbaum C , Schieffelin JS , Birren BW , Forget M , Nichol ST , Palacios GF , Ndiaye D , Happi C , Gevao SM , Vandi MA , Kargbo B , Holmes EC , Bedford T , Gnirke A , Stroher U , Rambaut A , Garry RF , Sabeti PC . Cell 2015 161 (7) 1516-26 The 2013-2015 Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic is caused by the Makona variant of Ebola virus (EBOV). Early in the epidemic, genome sequencing provided insights into virus evolution and transmission and offered important information for outbreak response. Here, we analyze sequences from 232 patients sampled over 7 months in Sierra Leone, along with 86 previously released genomes from earlier in the epidemic. We confirm sustained human-to-human transmission within Sierra Leone and find no evidence for import or export of EBOV across national borders after its initial introduction. Using high-depth replicate sequencing, we observe both host-to-host transmission and recurrent emergence of intrahost genetic variants. We trace the increasing impact of purifying selection in suppressing the accumulation of nonsynonymous mutations over time. Finally, we note changes in the mucin-like domain of EBOV glycoprotein that merit further investigation. These findings clarify the movement of EBOV within the region and describe viral evolution during prolonged human-to-human transmission. |
Transmission of norovirus within households in Quininde, Ecuador
Gastanaduy PA , Vicuna Y , Salazar F , Broncano N , Gregoricus N , Vinje J , Chico M , Parashar UD , Cooper PJ , Lopman B . Pediatr Infect Dis J 2015 34 (9) 1031-3 We studied the transmission of norovirus infection in households in Quininde, Ecuador. Among household contacts of norovirus positive children with diarrhea, norovirus negative children with diarrhea, and asymptomatic controls, infection attack rates (iARs) were 33%, 8%, and 18%, respectively (N= 45, 36, 83). iARs were higher when index children had a higher viral load. |
Misclassification of men with reported HIV infection in Ukraine
Cakalo JI , Bozicevic I , Vitek C , Mandel JS , Salyuk T , Rutherford GW . AIDS Behav 2015 19 (10) 1938-40 We analyzed data on reported mode of transmission in case reports of HIV-infections among men in Ukraine. The number of men who were reported to have acquired HIV through heterosexual transmission increased substantially in 2006-2011. However, we estimate that up to 40 % of reported cases of heterosexual transmission among men may actually represent misclassified men who have sex with men or persons who inject drugs. These findings indicate a need to improve the quality of data on reported mode of HIV transmission. Accurate information has important public health implications in planning prevention and treatment services. |
Outbreaks of illness associated with recreational water - United States, 2011-2012
Hlavsa MC , Roberts VA , Kahler AM , Hilborn ED , Mecher TR , Beach MJ , Wade TJ , Yoder JS . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015 64 (24) 668-672 Outbreaks of illness associated with recreational water use result from exposure to chemicals or infectious pathogens in recreational water venues that are treated (e.g., pools and hot tubs or spas) or untreated (e.g., lakes and oceans). For 2011-2012, the most recent years for which finalized data were available, public health officials from 32 states and Puerto Rico reported 90 recreational water-associated outbreaks to CDC's Waterborne Disease and Outbreak Surveillance System (WBDOSS) via the National Outbreak Reporting System (NORS). The 90 outbreaks resulted in at least 1,788 cases, 95 hospitalizations, and one death. Among 69 (77%) outbreaks associated with treated recreational water, 36 (52%) were caused by Cryptosporidium. Among 21 (23%) outbreaks associated with untreated recreational water, seven (33%) were caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli O157:H7 or E. coli O111). Guidance, such as the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), for preventing and controlling recreational water-associated outbreaks can be optimized when informed by national outbreak and laboratory (e.g., molecular typing of Cryptosporidium) data. |
Prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed HIV infection - United States, 2008-2012
Hall HI , An Q , Tang T , Song R , Chen M , Green T , Kang J . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015 64 (24) 657-662 Persons unaware of their human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection contribute nearly one third of ongoing transmission in the United States. Among the estimated 1.2 million persons living with HIV in the United States in 2011, 14% had undiagnosed infections. To accelerate progress toward reducing undiagnosed HIV infection, CDC and its partners have pursued an approach that includes expanding HIV testing in communities with high HIV infection rates. To measure the prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed HIV infection for the 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC), CDC analyzed data from the National HIV Surveillance System. In 42 jurisdictions with numerically stable estimates, HIV prevalence in 2012 ranged from 110 per 100,000 persons (Iowa) to 3,936 per 100,000 (DC). The percentage of persons living with diagnosed HIV ranged from 77% in Louisiana to ≥90% in Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, and New York. In 39 jurisdictions with numerically stable estimates, the percentage of HIV cases with diagnosed infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) ranged from 75% in Louisiana to ≥90% in Hawaii and New York. These data demonstrate the need for interventions and public health strategies to reduce the prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infection. Because the percentage of persons with undiagnosed HIV varies by geographic area, efforts tailored to each area's unique circumstances might be needed to increase the percentage of persons aware of their infection. |
Identifying new positives and linkage to HIV medical care - 23 testing site types, United States, 2013
Seth P , Wang G , Collins NT , Belcher L . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2015 64 (24) 663-667 Among the estimated 1.2 million persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in the United States, approximately 14% have not had their HIV diagnosed. Certain populations, such as African Americans/blacks (in this report referred to as blacks), men who have sex with men (MSM), and Hispanics/Latinos (in this report referred to as Hispanics), are disproportionately affected by HIV. In areas where HIV prevalence is ≥0.1%, CDC recommends routine HIV screening in health care settings for persons aged 13-64 years. Implementation of HIV screening as part of routine care can increase the number of HIV diagnoses, destigmatize HIV testing, and improve access to care for persons with new HIV infections. Additionally, targeted testing in non-health care settings might facilitate access to persons in at-risk populations (e.g., MSM, blacks, and Hispanics) who are unaware of their status and do not routinely seek care. CDC analyzed data for 23 testing site types submitted by 61 health departments and 151 CDC-funded community-based organizations to determine 1) the number of HIV tests conducted, 2) the percentage of persons with new diagnoses of HIV infection (in this report referred to as new positives), and 3) the percentage of persons who were linked to HIV medical care within 90 days after receiving diagnoses at specific site types within health care and non-health care settings. The results indicated that, in health care settings, primary care and sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics accounted for substantially more HIV tests than did other sites, and STD clinics identified more new positives. In non-health care settings, HIV counseling and testing sites accounted for the most tests and identified the highest number of new positives. Examining program data by site type shows which sites performed better in diagnosing new positives and informs decisions about program planning and allocation of CDC HIV testing resources among and within settings. |
Accelerating the dual elimination of mother-to-child transmission of syphilis and HIV: why now?
Kiarie J , Mishra CK , Temmerman M , Newman L . Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2015 130 Suppl 1 S1-3 Even though the elimination of congenital syphilis has been on the maternal and child health (MCH) agenda for over a decade, elimination has not yet been achieved; what, then, are the factors currently facilitating the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of syphilis? | In the decade since the 2004 Bulletin of the World Health Organization special issue on maternal and congenital syphilis, with its compelling editorial emphasizing an urgent need for new approaches to address congenital syphilis prevention, substantial progress has been made on many fronts [1]. In 2007, WHO released the Global Elimination of Congenital Syphilis: Rationale and Strategy for Action [2], which was developed in consultation with experts and regional disease control officials from around the world. This pivotal strategy calls for action in four distinct “pillars”, namely: (1) ensuring sustained political commitment and advocacy; (2) increasing the access to and quality of maternal and newborn health services; (3) screening of all pregnant women and treatment of all positive cases and their partners; and (4) establishing an underlying foundation of surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation for the elimination of congenital syphilis (Figure 1) [2]. Since the launching of the strategy, many advances have now made the elimination of congenital syphilis an attainable goal for every country. The papers in this Supplement describe examples of the progress and achievements toward elimination, as well as a description of the remaining challenges. |
Antibiotic choice for children hospitalized with pneumonia and adherence to national guidelines
Williams DJ , Edwards KM , Self WH , Zhu Y , Ampofo K , Pavia AT , Hersh AL , Arnold SR , McCullers JA , Hicks LA , Bramley AM , Jain S , Grijalva CG . Pediatrics 2015 136 (1) 44-52 INTRODUCTION: The 2011 national guidelines for the management of childhood community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) recommended narrow-spectrum antibiotics (eg, ampicillin) for most children hospitalized with CAP. We assessed the impact of these guidelines on antibiotic prescribing at 3 children's hospitals. METHODS: Children hospitalized with clinical and radiographic CAP were enrolled from January 1, 2010, through June 30, 2012, at 3 hospitals in Tennessee and Utah as part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Etiology of Pneumonia in the Community study. Antibiotic selection was determined by the treating provider. The impact of the guidelines and hospital-level implementation efforts was determined by assessing the monthly percentage of enrolled children receiving third-generation cephalosporins or penicillin/ampicillin. Segmented linear regression was used to compare observed antibiotic selection in the postguideline period with expected antibiotic use projected from preguideline months. RESULTS: Overall, 2121 children were included. During the preguideline period, 52.8% (interquartile range 47.8-56.6) of children with CAP received third-generation cephalosporins, whereas 2.7% (2.1, 7.0) received penicillin/ampicillin. By 9 months postguidelines, third-generation cephalosporin use declined (absolute difference -12.4% [95% confidence interval -19.8% to -5.1%]), whereas penicillin/ampicillin use increased (absolute difference 11.3% [4.3%-18.3%]). The most substantial changes were noted at those institutions that implemented guideline-related dissemination activities. CONCLUSIONS: After publication of national guidelines, third-generation cephalosporin use declined and penicillin/ampicillin use increased among children hospitalized with CAP. Changes were more apparent among those institutions that proactively disseminated the guidelines, suggesting that targeted, hospital-based efforts are important for timely implementation of guideline recommendations. |
Application of the World Health Organization programmatic assessment tool for risk of measles virus transmission - lessons learned from a measles outbreak in Senegal
Harris JB , Badiane O , Lam E , Nicholson J , Oumar Ba I , Diallo A , Fall A , Masresha BG , Goodson JL . Risk Anal 2015 36 (9) 1708-17 The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region set a goal for regional measles elimination by 2020; however, regional measles incidence was 125/1,000,000 in 2012. To support elimination efforts, the WHO and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention developed a tool to assess performance of measles control activities and identify high-risk areas at the subnational level. The tool uses routinely collected data to generate district-level risk scores across four categories: population immunity, surveillance quality, program performance, and threat assessment. To pilot test this tool, we used retrospective data from 2006 to 2008 to identify high-risk districts in Senegal; results were compared with measles case-based surveillance data from 2009 when Senegal experienced a large measles outbreak. Seventeen (25%) of 69 districts in Senegal were classified as high or very high risk. The tool highlighted how each of the four categories contributed to the total risk scores for high or very high risk districts. Measles case-based surveillance reported 986 cases during 2009, including 368 laboratory-confirmed, 540 epidemiologically linked, and 78 clinically compatible cases. The seven districts with the highest numbers of laboratory-confirmed or epidemiologically linked cases were within the capital region of Dakar. All except one of these seven districts were estimated to be high or very high risk, suggesting that districts identified as high risk by the tool have the potential for measles outbreaks. Prospective use of this tool is recommended to help immunization and surveillance program managers identify high-risk areas in which to strengthen specific programmatic weaknesses and mitigate risk for potential measles outbreaks. |
A comparison of methods for analyzing viral load data in studies of HIV patients
Rose CE , Gardner L , Craw J , Girde S , Wawrzyniak AJ , Drainoni ML , Davila J , DeHovitz J , Keruly JC , Westfall AO , Marks G . PLoS One 2015 10 (6) e0130090 HIV RNA viral load (VL) is a pivotal outcome variable in studies of HIV infected persons. We propose and investigate two frameworks for analyzing VL: (1) a single-measure VL (SMVL) per participant and (2) repeated measures of VL (RMVL) per participant. We compared these frameworks using a cohort of 720 HIV patients in care (4,679 post-enrollment VL measurements). The SMVL framework analyzes a single VL per participant, generally captured within a "window" of time. We analyzed three SMVL methods where the VL binary outcome is defined as suppressed or not suppressed. The omit-participant method uses a 8-month "window" (-6/+2 months) around month 24 to select the participant's VL closest to month 24 and removes participants from the analysis without a VL in the "window". The set-to-failure method expands on the omit-participant method by including participants without a VL within the "window" and analyzes them as not suppressed. The closest-VL method analyzes each participant's VL measurement closest to month 24. We investigated two RMVL methods: (1) repeat-binary classifies each VL measurement as suppressed or not suppressed and estimates the proportion of participants suppressed at month 24, and (2) repeat-continuous analyzes VL as a continuous variable to estimate the change in VL across time, and geometric mean (GM) VL and proportion of participants virally suppressed at month 24. Results indicated the RMVL methods have more precision than the SMVL methods, as evidenced by narrower confidence intervals for estimates of proportion suppressed and risk ratios (RR) comparing demographic strata. The repeat-continuous method had the most precision and provides more information than other considered methods. We generally recommend using the RMVL framework when there are repeated VL measurements per participant because it utilizes all available VL data, provides additional information, has more statistical power, and avoids the subjectivity of defining a "window." |
The diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in Arctic regions with a high prevalence of infection: expert commentary
McMahon BJ , Bruce MG , Koch A , Goodman KJ , Tsukanov V , Mulvad G , Borresen ML , Sacco F , Barrett D , Westby S , Parkinson AJ . Epidemiol Infect 2015 144 (2) 1-9 Helicobacter pylori infection is a major cause of peptic ulcer and is also associated with chronic gastritis, mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, and adenocarcinoma of the stomach. Guidelines have been developed in the United States and Europe (areas with low prevalence) for the diagnosis and management of this infection, including the recommendation to 'test and treat' those with dyspepsia. A group of international experts performed a targeted literature review and formulated an expert opinion for evidenced-based benefits and harms for screening and treatment of H. pylori in high-prevalence countries. They concluded that in Arctic countries where H. pylori prevalence exceeds 60%, treatment of persons with H. pylori infection should be limited only to instances where there is strong evidence of direct benefit in reduction of morbidity and mortality, associated peptic ulcer disease and MALT lymphoma and that the test-and-treat strategy may not be beneficial for those with dyspepsia. |
Differences in norovirus-associated hospital visits between Jewish and Bedouin children in southern Israel
Leshem E , Givon-Lavi N , Vinje J , Gregoricus N , Parashar U , Dagan R . Pediatr Infect Dis J 2015 34 (9) 1036-8 Population-based surveillance during 2006-2013 showed norovirushospitalization rates among Bedouin (low-middle income settings) children<5 years old,were 13.9/10,000 person-years compared with7.1/10,000 among Jewish (high-income settings) childrenwho were < 5 years (rate ratio [RR]2.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6-2.3). Differenceswere most prominent among infants (59.7 versus 19.7/10,000, respectively;RR3.0, 95%CI 2.5-3.8). GII.3 and GII.4 strains dominated (67%) in both populations. |
Preventing malaria transmission by indoor residual spraying in Malawi: grappling with the challenge of uncertain sustainability
Chanda E , Mzilahowa T , Chipwanya J , Mulenga S , Ali D , Troell P , Dodoli W , Govere JM , Gimnig J . Malar J 2015 14 (1) 254 BACKGROUND: In the past decade, there has been rapid scale-up of insecticide-based malaria vector control in the context of integrated vector management (IVM) according to World Health Organization recommendations. Endemic countries have deployed indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticidal nets as hallmark vector control interventions. This paper discusses the successes and continued challenges and the way forward for the IRS programme in Malawi. CASE DESCRIPTION: The National Malaria Control Programme in Malawi, with its efforts to implement an integrated approach to malaria vector control, was the 'case' for this study. Information sources included all available data and accessible archived documentary records on IRS in Malawi. A methodical assessment of published and unpublished documents was conducted via a literature search of online electronic databases. DISCUSSION: Malawi has implemented IRS as the main malaria transmission-reducing intervention. However, pyrethroid and carbamate resistance in malaria vectors has been detected extensively across the country and has adversely affected the IRS programme. Additionally, IRS activities have been characterized by substantial inherent logistical and technical challenges culminating into missed targets. As a consequence, programmatic IRS operations have been scaled down from seven districts in 2010 to only one district in 2014. The future of the IRS programme in Malawi is uncertain due to limited funding, high cost of alternative insecticides and technical resource challenges being experienced in the country. CONCLUSIONS: The availability of a long-lasting formulation of the organophosphate pirimiphos-methyl makes the re-introduction of IRS a possibility and may be a useful approach for the management of pyrethroid resistance. Implementing the IVM strategy, advocating for sustainable domestic funding, including developing an insecticide resistance monitoring and management plan and vector surveillance guidelines will be pivotal in steering entomologic monitoring and future vector control activities in Malawi. |
'A bite before bed': exposure to malaria vectors outside the times of net use in the highlands of western Kenya
Cooke MK , Kahindi SC , Oriango RM , Owaga C , Ayoma E , Mabuka D , Nyangau D , Abel L , Atieno E , Awuor S , Drakeley C , Cox J , Stevenson J . Malar J 2015 14 (1) 259 BACKGROUND: The human population in the highlands of Nyanza Province, western Kenya, is subject to sporadic epidemics of Plasmodium falciparum. Indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) are used widely in this area. These interventions are most effective when Anopheles rest and feed indoors and when biting occurs at times when individuals use LLINs. It is therefore important to test the current assumption of vector feeding preferences, and late night feeding times, in order to estimate the extent to which LLINs protect the inhabitants from vector bites. METHODS: Mosquito collections were made for six consecutive nights each month between June 2011 and May 2012. CDC light-traps were set next to occupied LLINs inside and outside randomly selected houses and emptied hourly. The net usage of residents, their hours of house entry and exit and times of sleeping were recorded and the individual hourly exposure to vectors indoors and outdoors was calculated. Using these data, the true protective efficacy of nets (P*), for this population was estimated, and compared between genders, age groups and from month to month. RESULTS: Primary vector species (Anopheles funestus s.l. and Anopheles arabiensis) were more likely to feed indoors but the secondary vector Anopheles coustani demonstrated exophagic behaviour (p < 0.05). A rise in vector biting activity was recorded at 19:30 outdoors and 18:30 indoors. Individuals using LLINs experienced a moderate reduction in their overall exposure to malaria vectors from 1.3 to 0.47 bites per night. The P* for the population over the study period was calculated as 51% and varied significantly with age and season (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, LLINs offered the local population partial protection against malaria vector bites. It is likely that P* would be estimated to be greater if the overall suppression of the local vector population due to widespread community net use could be taken into account. However, the overlap of early biting habit of vectors and human activity in this region indicates that additional methods of vector control are required to limit transmission. Regular surveillance of both vector behaviour and domestic human-behaviour patterns would assist the planning of future control interventions in this region. |
Climate change in the North American Arctic: a One Health perspective
Dudley JP , Hoberg EP , Jenkins EJ , Parkinson AJ . Ecohealth 2015 12 (4) 713-25 Climate change is expected to increase the prevalence of acute and chronic diseases among human and animal populations within the Arctic and subarctic latitudes of North America. Warmer temperatures are expected to increase disease risks from food-borne pathogens, water-borne diseases, and vector-borne zoonoses in human and animal populations of Arctic landscapes. Existing high levels of mercury and persistent organic pollutant chemicals circulating within terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in Arctic latitudes are a major concern for the reproductive health of humans and other mammals, and climate warming will accelerate the mobilization and biological amplification of toxic environmental contaminants. The adverse health impacts of Arctic warming will be especially important for wildlife populations and indigenous peoples dependent upon subsistence food resources from wild plants and animals. Additional research is needed to identify and monitor changes in the prevalence of zoonotic pathogens in humans, domestic dogs, and wildlife species of critical subsistence, cultural, and economic importance to Arctic peoples. The long-term effects of climate warming in the Arctic cannot be adequately predicted or mitigated without a comprehensive understanding of the interactive and synergistic effects between environmental contaminants and pathogens in the health of wildlife and human communities in Arctic ecosystems. The complexity and magnitude of the documented impacts of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, and the intimacy of connections between their human and wildlife communities, makes this region an appropriate area for development of One Health approaches to identify and mitigate the effects of climate warming at the community, ecosystem, and landscape scales. |
Apolipoprotein E and protection against hepatitis E virus infection in American, non-Hispanic blacks.
Zhang L , Yesupriya A , Chang MH , Teshale E , Teo CG . Hepatology 2015 62 (5) 1346-52 Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection imposes a heavy health burden worldwide and is common in the United States. Previous investigations of risks address environmental and host behavioral/lifestyle factors, but host genetic factors have not been examined. We assessed strength of associations between anti-HEV IgG seropositivity indicating past or recent HEV infection and human genetic variants among three major racial/ethnic populations in the United States, involving 2434 non-Hispanic whites, 1919 non-Hispanic blacks, and 1919 Mexican Americans from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1991-1994. We studied 497 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 190 genes (particularly those associated with lipid metabolism). Genomic control method was used to adjust for potential population stratification. Non-Hispanic blacks had the lowest seroprevalence of anti-HEV IgG (15.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.3%-19.0%), compared with non-Hispanic whites (22.3%; 95% CI, 19.1%-25.7%), and Mexican Americans (21.8%; 95% CI, 19.0%-25.3%) (P < 0.01). Non-Hispanic blacks were the only population that showed association between anti-HEV seropositivity and functional epsilon3 and epsilon4 alleles of apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, encoding apolipoprotein E protein that mediates lipoprotein metabolism. Seropositivity was significantly lower in participants carrying APOE epsilon4 (odds ratio [OR], 0.5; 95%CI, 0.4-0.7; P = 0.00004) and epsilon3 (OR, 0.6; 95%CI, 0.4-0.8; P = 0.001) compared to those carrying APOE epsilon2. No significant associations were observed between other SNPs and anti-HEV seropositivity in non-Hispanic blacks or between any SNPs and anti-HEV seropositivity in non-Hispanic whites or Mexican Americans. CONCLUSION: APOE epsilon3 and epsilon4 are significantly associated with protection against HEV infection in non-Hispanic blacks. Additional studies are needed to understand the basis of protection so that preventive services can be targeted to at-risk persons. |
Distinct pathological phenotypes of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in recipients of prion-contaminated growth hormone.
Cali I , Miller CJ , Parisi JE , Geschwind MD , Gambetti P , Schonberger LB . Acta Neuropathol Commun 2015 3 (1) 37 INTRODUCTION: The present study compares the clinical, pathological and molecular features of a United States (US) case of growth hormone (GH)-associated Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (GH-CJD) (index case) to those of two earlier referred US cases of GH-CJD and one case of dura mater (d)-associated CJD (dCJD). All iatrogenic CJD (iCJD) subjects were methionine (M) homozygous at codon 129 (129MM) of the prion protein (PrP) gene and had scrapie prion protein (PrP(Sc)) type 1 (iCJDMM1). RESULTS: The index subject presented with ataxia, weight loss and changes in the sleep pattern about 38 years after the midpoint of GH treatment. Autopsy examination revealed a neuropathological phenotype reminiscent of both sCJDMV2-K (a sporadic CJD subtype in subjects methionine/valine heterozygous at codon 129 with PrP(Sc) type 2 and the presence of kuru plaques) and variant CJD (vCJD). The two earlier cases of GH-CJDMM1 and the one of dCJDMM1 were associated with neuropathological phenotypes that differed from that of the index case mainly because they lacked PrP plaques. The phenotype of the earlier GH-CJDMM1 cases shared several, but not all, characteristics with sCJDMM1, whereas dCJDMM1 was phenotypically indistinguishable from sCJDMM1. Two distinct groups of dCJDMM1 have also been described in Japan based on clinical features, the presence or absence of PrP plaques and distinct PK-resistant PrP(Sc) (resPrP(Sc)) electrophoretic mobilities. The resPrP(Sc) electrophoretic mobility was, however, identical in our GH-CJDMM1 and dCJDMM1 cases, and matched that of sCJDMM1. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that receipt of prion-contaminated GH can lead to a prion disease with molecular features (129MM and PrP(Sc) type 2) and phenotypic characteristics that differ from those of sporadic prion disease (sCJDMM1), a difference that may reflect adaptation of "heterologous" prion strains to the 129MM background. |
Full-Genome Sequence of the First G8P[14] Rotavirus Strain Detected in the United States.
Mijatovic-Rustempasic S , Roy S , Sturgeon M , Rungsrisuriyachai K , Reisdorf E , Cortese MM , Bowen MD . Genome Announc 2015 3 (3) This is a report of the complete genomic sequence of a rare rotavirus group A G8-P[14]-I2-R3-C2-M2-A3-N2-T6-E2-H3 strain detected in a stool sample from a 57-year-old subject. |
Abstinence-only sex education: college students’ evaluations and responses
Gardner EA . Am J Sex Educ 2015 10 (2) 125-139 This qualitative study explores the abstinence-only sex education experiences of a small group of young adults in the southeastern USA. Most participants felt that their abstinence-only sex education had mixed value and low overall impact in their lives. Perceptions about abstinence, virginity, and marriage varied significantly from those stressed in abstinence-only curricula. Distinct themes emerged about “ideal” sex education content, with strong support for comprehensive instruction and less for emphases on strictly negative outcomes of sexual activity. These responses reflect many curriculum components of comprehensive sex education. Future efforts to develop effective sex education programs should incorporate these concepts. |
Southern Hemisphere Influenza and Vaccine Effectiveness Research and Surveillance
Huang QS , Turner N , Baker MG , Williamson DA , Wong C , Webby R , Widdowson MA . Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2015 9 (4) 179-90 The 2009 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 pandemic highlighted the need for improved scientific knowledge to support better pandemic preparedness and seasonal influenza control. The Southern Hemisphere Influenza and Vaccine Effectiveness Research and Surveillance (SHIVERS) project, a 5-year (2012-2016) multiagency and multidisciplinary collaboration, aimed to measure disease burden, epidemiology, aetiology, risk factors, immunology, effectiveness of vaccination and other prevention strategies for influenza and other respiratory infectious diseases of public health importance. Two active, prospective, population-based surveillance systems were established for monitoring influenza and other respiratory pathogens among those hospitalized patients with acute respiratory illness and those enrolled patients seeking consultations at sentinel general practices. In 2015, a sero-epidemiological study will use a sample of patients from the same practices. These data will provide a full picture of the disease burden and risk factors from asymptomatic infections to severe hospitalized disease and deaths and related economic burden. The results during the first 2 years (2012-2013) provided scientific evidence to (a) support a change to NZ's vaccination policy for young children due to high influenza hospitalizations in these children; (b) contribute to the revision of the World Health Organization's case definition for severe acute respiratory illness for global influenza surveillance; and (c) contribute in part to vaccine strain selection using vaccine effectiveness assessment in the prevention of influenza-related consultations and hospitalizations. In summary, SHIVERS provides valuable international platforms for supporting seasonal influenza control and pandemic preparedness, and responding to other emerging/endemic respiratory-related infections. |
Monovalent type-1 oral poliovirus vaccine given at short intervals in Pakistan: a randomised controlled, four-arm, open-label, non-inferiority trial
Mir F , Quadri F , Mach O , Ahmed I , Bhatti Z , Khan A , Rehman NU , Durry E , Salama M , Oberste SM , Weldon WC , Sutter RW , Zaidi AK . Lancet Infect Dis 2015 15 (8) 889-97 BACKGROUND: Supplementary immunisation activities with oral poliovirus vaccines (OPVs) are usually separated by 4 week intervals; however, shorter intervals have been used in security-compromised areas and for rapid outbreak responses. We assessed the immunogenicity of monovalent type-1 oral poliovirus vaccine (mOPV1) given at shorter than usual intervals in Karachi, Pakistan. METHODS: This was a multicentre, randomised, controlled, four-arm, open-label, non-inferiority trial done at five primary health-care centres in low-income communities in and around Karachi, Pakistan. Eligible participants were healthy newborn babies with a birthweight of at least 2.5 kg, for whom informed consent was provided by their parent or guardian, and lived less than 30 km from the study clinic. After receiving a birth dose of trivalent OPV, we enrolled and randomly assigned newborn babies (1:1:1:1) to receive two doses of mOPV1 with an interval of 1 week (mOPV1-1 week), 2 weeks (mOPV1-2 weeks), or 4 weeks (mOPV1-4 weeks) between doses, or two doses of bivalent OPV (bOPV) with an interval of 4 weeks between doses (bOPV-4 weeks). We gave the first study dose of OPV at age 6 weeks. We did the randomisation with a centrally generated, computerised allocation sequence with blocks of 16; participants' families and study physicians could not feasibly be masked to the allocations. Trial participants were excluded from local supplementary immunisation activities during the study period. The primary outcome was non-inferiority (within a 20% margin) between groups in seroconversion to type-1 poliovirus. The primary and safety analyses were done in the per-protocol population of infants who received all three doses of vaccine. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01586572, and is closed to new participants. FINDINGS: Between March 1, 2012, and May 31, 2013, we enrolled 1009 newborn babies, and randomly assigned 829 (82%) to treatment. 554 (67%) of the 829 babies were included in the per-protocol analysis. Proportions of seroconversion to type-1 poliovirus were 107/135 (79%, 95% CI 72.4-86.1) with mOPV1-1 week, 108/135 (80%, 73.2-86.8) with mOPV1-2 weeks, 129/148 (87%, 80.9-92.0) with mOPV1-4 weeks, and 107/136 (79%, 71.8-85.6) with bOPV-4 weeks. Non-inferiority was shown between groups and no significant differences were noted. Ten participants died during the trial. Seven of these deaths occurred during the lead-in period before randomisation (two from diarrhoea, five from unknown causes). Three infants died from sepsis after random assignment. No deaths were attributed to the procedures or vaccines. Additionally, we noted no events of vaccine-associated paralysis. INTERPRETATION: We identified no significant differences in responses to mOPV1 given with shorter intervals between doses than with the standard 4 week intervals. The short-interval strategy could be particularly beneficial when temporary windows of opportunity for safe access can be granted in areas of conflict-eg, during cease-fire periods. In such situations, we recommend shortening the interval between OPV doses to 7 days. FUNDING: World Health Organization. |
Population-based trends in high-grade cervical lesions in the early human papillomavirus vaccine era in the United States
Hariri S , Johnson ML , Bennett NM , Bauer HM , Park IU , Schafer S , Niccolai LM , Unger ER , Markowitz LE . Cancer 2015 121 (16) 2775-81 BACKGROUND: Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2, 3, and adenocarcinoma in situ (CIN2+) lesions can be monitored as early indicators of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine impact. Changes to screening utilization will affect observed reductions in CIN2+ rates and complicate the interpretation of vaccine impact. METHODS: From 2008 to 2012, 9119 cases of CIN2+ among 18- to 39-year-old residents of catchment areas in California, Connecticut, New York, and Oregon were reported to the HPV-IMPACT Project, a sentinel system for monitoring the population impact of HPV vaccine. Age-stratified CIN2+ incidence rates were calculated for each catchment. Annual cervical screening was estimated for California, New York, and Oregon catchments with administrative and survey data. The Cochran-Armitage test was used to examine trends. RESULTS: From 2008 to 2012, the incidence of CIN2+ significantly decreased among 18- to 20-year-olds (California, from 94 to 5 per 100,000 women; Connecticut, from 450 to 57 per 100,000 women; New York, from 299 to 43 per 100,000 women; and Oregon, from 202 to 37 per 100,000 women; Ptrend < .0001) and among 21- to 29-year-olds in Connecticut (from 762 to 589 per 100,000 women) and New York (from 770 to 465 per 100,000 women; Ptrend < .001); rates did not differ among 30- to 39-year-olds. During the same period, screening rates also declined, with the largest decreases among 18- to 20-year-olds (from 67% in Oregon to 88% in California) and with smaller declines among 21- to 29-year-olds (13%-27%) and 30- to 39-year-olds (3%-21%). CONCLUSIONS: The declines in CIN2+ detection in young women were likely due to reduced screening but could also reflect the impact of vaccination. These data illustrate challenges in interpreting CIN2+ ecologic trends in the new era of cervical cancer prevention and emphasize the importance of information such as HPV types detected in lesions to assess the impact of HPV vaccine on cervical precancers. |
Evaluating efficiency and statistical power of self-controlled case series and self-controlled risk interval designs in vaccine safety
Li R , Stewart B , Weintraub E . J Biopharm Stat 2015 26 (4) 686-93 The self-controlled case series (SCCS) and self-controlled risk interval (SCRI) designs have recently become widely used in the field of post-licensure vaccine safety monitoring to detect potential elevated risks of adverse events following vaccinations. The SCRI design can be viewed as a subset of the SCCS method in that a reduced comparison time window is used for the analysis. Compared to the SCCS method, the SCRI design has less statistical power due to fewer events occurring in the shorter control interval. In this study, we derived the asymptotic relative efficiency (ARE) between these two methods to quantify this loss in power in the SCRI design. The equation is formulated as [Formula: see text] (a: control window length ratio between SCRI and SCCS designs; b: ratio of risk window length and control window length in the SCCS design; [Formula: see text]: relative risk of exposed window to control window). According to this equation, the relative efficiency declines as the ratio of control period length between SCRI and SCCS methods decreases, or with an increase in the relative risk [Formula: see text]. We provide an example utilizing data from the Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD) to study the potential elevated risk of febrile seizure following seasonal influenza vaccine in the 2010-2011 season. |
Evaluation of influenza vaccine effectiveness and description of circulating strains in outpatient settings in South Africa, 2014
McAnerney JM , Treurnicht F , Walaza S , Cohen AL , Tempia S , Mtshali S , Buys A , Blumberg L , Cohen C . Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2015 9 (4) 209-15 The effectiveness of the trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine during the 2014 season in South Africa was assessed using a test-negative case-control study design including 472 cases and 362 controls. Influenza A(H3N2) was the dominant strain circulating. The overall vaccine effectiveness estimate, adjusted for age and underlying conditions, was 43.1% (95% CI: -26.8-74.5). 2014 H3N2 viruses from South Africa were mainly in sublineage 3C.3 with accumulation of amino acid changes that differentiate them from the vaccine strain in 3C.1. |
Immunogenicity of three doses of bivalent, trivalent, or type 1 monovalent oral poliovirus vaccines with a 2 week interval between doses in Bangladesh: an open-label, non-inferiority, randomised, controlled trial
Estivariz CF , Anand A , Gary HE Jr , Rahman M , Islam J , Bari TI , Wassilak SG , Chu SY , Weldon WC , Pallansch MA , Heffelfinger JD , Luby SP , Zaman K . Lancet Infect Dis 2015 15 (8) 898-904 BACKGROUND: The provision of several doses of monovalent type 1 oral poliovirus vaccine (mOPV1) and bivalent OPV1 and 3 (bOPV) vaccines through campaigns is essential to stop the circulation of remaining wild polioviruses. Our study aimed to assess the shortening of intervals between campaigns with bOPV and mOPV1 and to assess the immunogenicity of bOPV in routine immunisation schedules. METHODS: We did an open-label, non-inferiority, five-arm, randomised controlled trial in Bangladesh. We recruited healthy infants aged 6 weeks at 42 immunisation clinics and randomly assigned them (with blocks of 15, three per group) to receive a short three-dose schedule of bOPV (bOPV short) or mOPV1 (mOPV1 short) with the first dose given at age 6 weeks, the second at age 8 weeks, and the third at age 10 weeks; or to a standard three-dose schedule of bOPV (bOPV standard) or mOPV1 (mOPV1 standard) or trivalent OPV (tOPV standard) with the first dose given at age 6 weeks, the second at 10 weeks, and the third at age 14 weeks. The primary outcome was the proportion of infants with antibody seroconversion for type 1, type 2, and type 3 polioviruses. The primary, modified intention-to-treat analysis included all patients who had testable serum samples before and after receiving at least one OPV dose. We used a 10% margin to establish non-inferiority for bOPV groups versus mOPV1 groups in seroconversion for type 1 poliovirus, and for bOPV1 short versus bOPV1 standard for types 1 and 3. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01633216, and is closed to new participants. FINDINGS: Between May 13, 2012, and Jan 21, 2013, we randomly assigned 1000 infants to our study groups. 927 completed all study visits and were included in the primary analysis. Seroconversion for type-1 poliovirus was recorded in 183 (98%, 95% CI 95-100) of 186 infants given bOPV short, 179 (97%, 94-99) of 184 given bOPV standard, 180 (96%, 92-98) of 188 given mOPV short, 178 (99%, 97-100) of 179 given mOPV1 standard, and 175 (92%, 87-96) of 190 given tOPV standard. Seroconversion for type 2 was noted in 16 infants (9%, 5-14) on bOPV short, 29 (16%, 11-22) on bOPV standard, 19 (10%, 7-15) on mOPV short, 33 (18%, 13-25) on mOPV1 standard, and 182 (96%, 92-98) on tOPV standard. Seroconversion for type 3 was noted in 175 infants (94%, 90-97) on bOPV short, 176 (96%, 92-98) on bOPV standard, 18 (10%, 6-15) on mOPV short, 25 (14%, 10-20) on mOPV1 standard, and 167 (88%, 83-92) on tOPV standard. The short schedules for mOPV1 and bOPV elicited a non-inferior antibody response compared with the bOPV standard schedule. 104 adverse events were reported in 100 infants during follow up. 36 of these events needed admission to hospital (32 were pneumonia, two were vomiting or feeding disorders, one was septicaemia, and one was diarrhoea with severe malnutrition). One of the infants admitted to hospital for pneumonia died 5 days after admission. No adverse event was attributed to the vaccines. INTERPRETATION: Our trial showed that three doses of mOPV1 or bOPV with a short schedule of 2 week intervals between doses induces an immune response similar to that obtained with the standard schedule of giving doses at 4 week intervals. These findings support the use of these vaccines in campaigns done at short intervals to rapidly increase population immunity against polioviruses to control outbreaks or prevent transmission in high-risk areas. FUNDING: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and UNICEF. |
Development and Evaluation of Three Real-time PCR Assays for Genotyping and Source Tracking Cryptosporidium in Water.
Li N , Neumann NF , Ruecker N , Alderisio KA , Sturbaum GD , Villegas EN , Chalmers R , Monis P , Feng Y , Xiao L . Appl Environ Microbiol 2015 81 (17) 5845-54 The occurrence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in drinking source water can present a serious public health risk. To rapidly and effectively assess the source and human-infective potential of Cryptosporidium oocysts in water, sensitive detection and correct identification of oocysts to the species level (genotyping) are essential. In this study, we developed three real-time PCR genotyping assays, two targeting the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene (18S-LC1 and 18S-LC2 assays) and one targeting the 90 kDa heat shock protein (hsp90) gene (hsp90 assay), and evaluated the sensitivity and Cryptosporidium species detection range of these assays. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer probes and melt curve analysis, the 18S-LC1 and hsp90 assay could differentiate common human-pathogenic species (C. parvum, C. hominis, and C. meleagridis), while the 18S-LC2 assay was able to differentiate non-pathogenic species (such as C. andersoni) from human-pathogenic ones commonly found in source water. In sensitivity evaluations, the 18S-LC2 and hsp90 genotyping assays could detect as few as one Cryptosporidium oocyst per sample. Thus, the 18S-LC2 and hsp90 genotyping assays might be used in environmental monitoring, whereas the 18S-LC1 genotyping assay could be useful for genotyping Cryptosporidium spp. in clinical specimens or wastewater samples. |
A proteomic characterization of Bordetella pertussis clinical isolates associated with a California state pertussis outbreak
Williamson YM , Moura H , Whitmon J , Woolfitt AR , Schieltz DM , Rees JC , Guo S , Kirkham H , Bouck D , Ades EW , Tondella ML , Carlone GM , Sampson JS , Barr JR . Int J Proteomics 2015 2015 536537 Bordetella pertussis (Bp) is the etiologic agent of pertussis (whooping cough), a highly communicable infection. Although pertussis is vaccine preventable, in recent years there has been increased incidence, despite high vaccine coverage. Possible reasons for the rise in cases include the following: Bp strain adaptation, waning vaccine immunity, increased surveillance, and improved clinical diagnostics. A pertussis outbreak impacted California (USA) in 2010; children and preadolescents were the most affected but the burden of disease fell mainly on infants. To identify protein biomarkers associated with this pertussis outbreak, we report a whole cellular protein characterization of six Bp isolates plus the pertussis acellular vaccine strain Bp Tohama I (T), utilizing gel-free proteomics-based mass spectrometry (MS). MS/MS tryptic peptide detection and protein database searching combined with western blot analysis revealed three Bp isolates in this study had markedly reduced detection of pertactin (Prn), a subunit of pertussis acellular vaccines. Additionally, antibody affinity capture technologies were implemented using anti-Bp T rabbit polyclonal antisera and whole cellular proteins to identify putative immunogens. Proteome profiling could shed light on pathogenesis and potentially lay the foundation for reduced infection transmission strategies and improved clinical diagnostics. |
Indirect Immunodetection of Fungal Fragments by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy
Afanou KA , Straumfors A , Skogstad A , Nayak AP , Skaar I , Hjeljord L , Tronsmo A , Eduard W , Green BJ . Appl Environ Microbiol 2015 81 (17) 5794-803 Submicronic fungal fragments have been observed in in vitro aerosolization experiments. The occurrence of these particles has therefore been suggested to contribute to respiratory health problems observed in mold contaminated indoor environments. However, the role of submicronic fragments in exacerbating adverse health effects has remained unclear due to limitations associated with detection methods. In the present study, we report the development of an indirect immunodetection assay that utilizes chicken polyclonal antibodies developed against spores from Aspergillus versicolor and high resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Immunolabeling was performed with A. versicolor fragments immobilized and fixed onto poly-L-lysine coated polycarbonate filters. Ninety percent of submicronic fragments and 1-2 mum fragments, compared to 100% of >2 mum fragments generated from pure freeze dried mycelial fragments of A. versicolor, were positively labeled. In proof of concept experiments, air samples collected from moldy indoor environments were evaluated using the immunolabelling technique. Our results indicated that 13% of total collected particles were derived from fungi. This fraction comprises 79% of fragments that were detected by immunolabelling and 21% spore particles that were morphologically identified. The methods reported in this study, enable the enumeration of fungal particles, including submicronic fragments, in a complex heterogeneous environmental sample. |
International Laboratory Comparison of Influenza Microneutralization Assays for A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and A(H5N1) Influenza Viruses by CONSISE
Laurie KL , Engelhardt OG , Wood J , Heath A , Katz JM , Peiris M , Hoschler K , Hungnes O , Zhang W , Van Kerkhove MD . Clin Vaccine Immunol 2015 22 (8) 957-64 The Microneutralisation assay is commonly used to detect antibodies to influenza virus and multiple protocols are used worldwide. These protocols vary in the incubation time of the assay as well as in the order of specific steps and even within protocols there are often further adjustments in individual laboratories. The impact these protocol variations have on influenza serology data is unclear. Thus a laboratory comparison of the 2-day ELISA and 3-day hemagglutination (HA) microneutralisation (MN) protocols, using A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2) and A(H5N1) viruses, was performed by the CONSISE Laboratory Working Group. Individual laboratories performed both assay protocols, on multiple occasions, using different serum panels. Thirteen laboratories from around the world participated. Within each laboratory, serum sample titres for each assay protocol were compared to determine the sensitivity of each assay and between replicates to assess the reproducibility of each protocol, for each laboratory. There was good correlation between the results obtained using the two assay protocols in most laboratories, indicating these assays may be interchangeable for detecting antibodies to the influenza A viruses included in this study. Importantly, participating laboratories have aligned their methodology to the CONSISE Consensus 2-day ELISA and 3-day HA MN assay protocols to enable better correlation of these assays in the future. |
Analysis of the constraint joint loading in the thumb during pipetting
Wu JZ , Sinsel EW , Zhao KD , An KN , Buczek FL . J Biomech Eng 2015 137 (8) 084501 Dynamic loading on articular joints is essential for the evaluation of the risk of the articulation degeneration associated with occupational activities. In the current study, we analyzed the dynamic constraint loading for the thumb during pipetting. The constraint loading is considered as the loading that has to be carried by the connective tissues of the joints (i.e., the cartilage layer and the ligaments) to maintain the kinematic constraints of the system. The joint loadings are solved using a classic free-body approach, using the external loading and muscle forces, which were obtained in an inverse dynamic approach combined with an optimization procedure in anybody. The constraint forces in the thumb joint obtained in the current study are compared with those obtained in the pinch and grasp tests in a previous study (Cooney and Chao, 1977, Biomechanical Analysis of Static Forces in the Thumb During Hand Function, J. Bone Joint Surg. Am., 59(1), pp. 27-36). The maximal compression force during pipetting is approximately 83% and 60% greater than those obtained in the tip pinch and key pinch, respectively, while substantially smaller than that obtained during grasping. The maximal lateral shear force is approximately six times, 32 times, and 90% greater than those obtained in the tip pinch, key pinch, and grasp, respectively. The maximal dorsal shear force during pipetting is approximately 3.2 and 1.4 times greater than those obtained in the tip pinch and key pinch, respectively, while substantially smaller than that obtained during grasping. Our analysis indicated that the thumb joints are subjected to repetitive, intensive loading during pipetting, compared to other daily activities. |
AS03-adjuvanted H7N1 detergent-split virion vaccine is highly immunogenic in unprimed mice and induces cross-reactive antibodies to emerged H7N9 and additional H7 subtypes
Mallett CP , Beaulieu E , Joly MH , Baras B , Lu X , Liu F , Levine MZ , Katz JM , Innis BL , Giannini SL . Vaccine 2015 33 (32) 3784-7 Avian H7 is one of several influenza A virus subtypes that have the potential to cause pandemics. Herein we describe preclinical results following administration of an investigational H7N1 inactivated detergent-split virion vaccine adjuvanted with the AS03 Adjuvant System. The adjuvanted H7N1 vaccine was highly immunogenic compared to the non-adjuvanted H7N1 vaccine in unprimed mice with less than 100ng of hemagglutinin antigen per dose. In addition, compared to the non-adjuvanted vaccine, the AS03-adjuvanted H7N1 vaccine also induced robust HI and VN antibody responses that cross-reacted with other H7 subtypes, including recently emerged H7N9 virus. These H7 data from the preclinical mouse model add to the existing H5 data to suggest that AS03 adjuvant technology may be generally effective for formulating antigen-sparing detergent-split virion vaccines against intrinsically sub-immunogenic avian influenza A virus subtypes. |
Cataloguing of Potential HIV Susceptibility Factors during the Menstrual Cycle of Pig-Tailed Macaques by Using a Systems Biology Approach
Vishwanathan SA , Burgener A , Bosinger SE , Tharp GK , Guenthner PC , Patel NB , Birse K , Hanson DL , Westmacott GR , Henning T , Radzio J , Garcia-Lerma JG , Ball TB , McNicholl JM , Kersh EN . J Virol 2015 89 (18) 9167-77 Our earlier studies in pig-tailed macaques demonstrated varying SHIV susceptibility during the menstrual cycle, likely caused by cyclic variations in immune responses in the female genital tract. There is concern that high-dose, long-lasting, injectable progestin-based contraception could mimic the high-progesterone luteal phase and predispose women to HIV-1 acquisition and transmission. In this study, we adopted a systems biology approach employing proteomics (tandem mass spectrometry), transcriptomics (RNA microarray hybridization), and other specific protein assays (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and multiplex chemokine-cytokine measurements) to characterize the effects of hormonal changes on the expression of innate factors and secreted proteins in the macaque vagina. Several antiviral factors and pathways (including acute phase response signaling and complement system) were overexpressed in the follicular phase. Conversely, during the luteal phase there were factors overexpressed (including moesins, syndecans, integrins, among others) that could play direct or indirect roles in enhancing HIV-1 infection. Thus, our study showed that specific pathways and proteins/genes might be working in tandem to regulate innate immunity, thus fostering further investigation and future design of approaches to help counter HIV-1 acquisition in the female genital tract. IMPORTANCE: HIV infection in women is poorly understood. High levels of the hormone progesterone may make women more vulnerable to infection. This could be the case during the menstrual cycle, when using hormone-based birth control, or during pregnancy. The biological basis for increased HIV vulnerability is not known. We used an animal model with high risk for infection during periods of high progesterone. Genital secretions and tissues were studied during the menstrual cycle. Our goal was to identify biological factors upregulated at high progesterone levels, and we indeed show an upregulation of genes and proteins which enhance the ability of HIV to infect when progesterone is high. In contrast, during low progesterone periods, we find more HIV inhibitory factors. This basic research study contributes to our understanding of mechanisms that may regulate HIV infection in females under hormonal influences. Such knowledge is needed for the development of novel prevention strategies. |
Correlation between GyrA substitutions and ofloxacin, levofloxacin, and moxifloxacin cross-resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Willby M , Sikes RD , Malik S , Metchock B , Posey JE . Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015 59 (9) 5427-34 Newer generation fluoroquinolones moxifloxacin (MXF) and levofloxacin (LVX) are becoming more common components of TB treatment regimens. However, the critical concentrations for testing susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to MXF and LVX are not yet well established. Additionally, the degree of cross-resistance between ofloxacin (OFX) and these newer fluoroquinolones has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for MXF and LVX and susceptibility to the critical concentration of OFX were determined using the agar proportion method for 133 isolates of M. tuberculosis. Most isolates resistant to OFX had LVX MICs >1 mug/mL and MXF MICs >0.5mug/mL. The presence of mutations within the GyrA QRDR correlated well with increased MICs, and the level of LVX and MXF resistance was dependent on the specific GyrA mutation present. Substitutions Ala90Val, Asp94Ala and Asp94Tyr resulted in low-level MXF resistance (MICs >0.5 but ≤2 mug/mL) while other mutations led to MXF MIC >2mug/mL. Based on these results, a critical concentration of 1 mug/mL is suggested for LVX and 0.5 mug/ml for MXF drug susceptibility testing by agar proportion with reflex testing for MXF at 2 mug/mL. |
Recurrent Kawasaki disease, United States and Japan
Maddox RA , Holman RC , Uehara R , Callinan LS , Guest JL , Schonberger LB , Nakamura Y , Yashiro M , Belay ED . Pediatr Int 2015 57 (6) 1116-20 BACKGROUND: Descriptive epidemiologic studies of recurrent and non-recurrent Kawasaki disease (KD) may identify other potentially important differences between these illnesses. METHODS: Data from the United States and Japan, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) national KD surveillance(1984-2008) and the 17th Japanese nationwide survey (2001-2002), respectively, were analyzed to examine recurrent KD patients <18 years of age meeting the CDC KD case or atypical KD case definition. These patients were compared to non-recurrent KD patients. RESULTS: Of the 5557 US KD patients <18 years of age during 1984-2008, 97 (1.7%) were identified as having had recurrent KD. Among the US Asian/Pacific IslanderKDpatients, 3.5% had recurrent KD, which was similar to the percentage identified among KD patients (3.5%) in the Japanese survey. Compared to non-recurrent KDpatients, KD patients experiencing a recurrent KDepisode were more likely to be older, fulfill the atypical KD case definition, and have coronary artery abnormalities (CAA) despite IVIG treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Differences in the age, race, and frequency of CAA exist between recurrent and non-recurrent KD patients. The increased association of CAA with recurrent KD suggests that more aggressive treatment strategies in conjunction with IVIG may be indicated for the second episode of KD. |
Trends in gestational diabetes among hospital deliveries in 19 U.S. states, 2000-2010
Bardenheier BH , Imperatore G , Gilboa SM , Geiss LS , Saydah SH , Devlin HM , Kim SY , Gregg EW . Am J Prev Med 2015 49 (1) 12-9 INTRODUCTION: Diabetes is one of the most common and fastest-growing comorbidities of pregnancy. Temporal trends in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have not been examined at the state level. This study examines GDM prevalence trends overall and by age, state, and region for 19 states, and by race/ethnicity for 12 states. Sub-analysis assesses trends among GDM deliveries by insurance type and comorbid hypertension in pregnancy. METHODS: Using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's National and State Inpatient Databases, deliveries were identified using diagnosis-related group codes for GDM and comorbidities using ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes among all community hospitals. General linear regression with a log-link and binomial distribution was used in 2014 to assess annual change in GDM prevalence from 2000 through 2010. RESULTS: The age-standardized prevalence of GDM increased from 3.71 in 2000 to 5.77 per 100 deliveries in 2010 (relative increase, 56%). From 2000 through 2010, GDM deliveries increased significantly in all states (p<0.01), with relative increases ranging from 36% to 88%. GDM among deliveries in 12 states reporting race and ethnicity increased among all groups (p<0.01), with the highest relative increase in Hispanics (66%). Among GDM deliveries in 19 states, those with pre-pregnancy hypertension increased significantly from 2.5% to 4.1% (relative increase, 64%). The burden of GDM delivery payment shifted from private insurers (absolute decrease of 13.5 percentage points) to Medicaid/Medicare (13.2-percentage point increase). CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that GDM deliveries are increasing. The highest rates of increase are among Hispanics and among GDM deliveries complicated by pre-pregnancy hypertension. |
Multiple micronutrient powders for home (point-of-use) fortification of foods in pregnant women
Suchdev PS , Pena-Rosas JP , De-Regil LM . Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015 6 (6) CD011158 BACKGROUND: It is estimated that 32 million pregnant women suffer from anaemia worldwide. Due to increased metabolic demands, pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to anaemia and vitamin and mineral deficiencies, leading to adverse health effects in both the mother and her baby. Despite the demonstrated benefits of prenatal supplementation with iron and folic acid or multiple micronutrients, poor adherence to routine supplementation has limited the effectiveness of this intervention in many settings. Micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification are packed, single-dose sachets containing vitamins and minerals that can be added onto prepared food to improve its nutrient profile. The use of multiple micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods in pregnant women could be an alternative intervention to prenatal micronutrient supplementation. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of prenatal home (point-of-use) fortification of foods with multiple micronutrient powders on maternal and newborn health. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (31 January 2015) and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (31 January 2015). We also contacted relevant agencies to identify ongoing and unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (both individual and cluster randomisation) and quasi-randomised trials, irrespective of language or publication status.The intervention was micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods, containing at least three micronutrients with one of them being iron, provided to pregnant women of any gestational age and parity. Five comparison groups were considered: no intervention/placebo, iron and folic acid supplements, iron-only supplements, folic-acid only supplements, and multiple micronutrients in supplements. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed the eligibility of studies, extracted and checked data accuracy, and assessed the risk of bias of included studies. MAIN RESULTS: Our search identified 12 reports (relating to six studies). We included two cluster-randomised controlled trials (involving 1172 women) - these trials were considered to be at a moderate to high risk of bias due to methodological limitations. One trial is ongoing, and three studies were excluded. Micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods versus iron and folic acid supplementsOne trial (involving 478 pregnant women attending 42 antenatal care centres) compared micronutrient powders containing iron, folic acid, vitamin C and zinc with iron and folic acid tablets provided daily from 14 to 22 weeks to 32 weeks' gestation. The trial did not report on any of this review's primary outcomes: maternal anaemia at or near term, maternal iron deficiency, maternal mortality, adverse effects, low birthweight, preterm births. Nor did the trial report on the majority of this review's secondary outcomes, with the exception of maternal adherence. Adherence to micronutrient powders was lower than adherence to iron and folic acid supplements (risk ratio (RR) 0.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.66 to 0.87, one study, n = 405). Micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods versus same multiple micronutrients in supplementsOne study (involving 694 pregnant women from 18 communities), compared micronutrient powders containing iron, folic acid, vitamin C, zinc, iodine, vitamin E and vitamin B12 with tablets containing the same seven micronutrients. There was no difference in maternal anaemia at 37 weeks of gestation (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.59, one study, n = 470, very low quality evidence). The trial did not report on any of this review's other primary outcomes in relation to maternal iron deficiency, maternal mortality, adverse effects, low birthweight, or preterm birth. In terms of this review's secondary outcomes, the included trial did not report on the majority of this review's prespecified secondary outcomes with one exception - there was no clear difference in maternal haemoglobin Hb or near term (mean difference (MD) 1.0 g/L, 95% CI -1.77 to 3.77, one study, n = 470). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Limited evidence suggests that micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods have no clear difference as multiple micronutrient supplements on maternal anaemia (very low quality evidence) and Hb at or near term. There is limited evidence to suggest that women were more likely to adhere to taking tablets than using micronutrient powders.The overall quality of evidence was judged very low (due to methodological limitations), and no evidence was available for the majority of primary and secondary outcomes. Therefore, more evidence is needed to assess the potential benefits or harms of the use of micronutrient powders in pregnant women on maternal and infant health outcomes. Future trials should also assess adherence to micronutrient powders and be adequately powered to evaluate the effects on birth outcomes and morbidity. |
High-protein meal challenge reveals the association between the salivary cortisol response and metabolic syndrome in police officers
Baughman P , Andrew ME , Burchfiel CM , Fekedulegn D , Hartley TA , Violanti JM , Miller DB . Am J Hum Biol 2015 28 (1) 138-44 OBJECTIVES: Policing is considered a high-stress occupation and officers have elevated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. To investigate a potential connection, we evaluated the association between salivary cortisol response to a high-protein meal challenge and the metabolic syndrome (MetSyn), a subclinical disorder associated with increased cardiovascular risk. METHODS: Cross-sectional data were from the Buffalo Cardio-Metabolic Occupational Police Stress (BCOPS) Study (2004-2009). MetSyn was defined as having ≥3 components: abdominal obesity, hypertension, elevated triglycerides, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and glucose intolerance. Officers provided five saliva samples for cortisol analysis, one before challenge (high-protein shake) and four at 15-min intervals thereafter, where the usual response is increase. Regression models were used to examine trends in mean number of MetSyn components across quartiles of area under the curve (AUC) salivary cortisol. Patterns of mean cortisol response were assessed by MetSyn status using repeated-measures analysis of covariance. RESULTS: Prevalence of MetSyn was 25.7% among 373 officers (74.0% male). The mean count of MetSyn components decreased (1.89, 1.75, 1.55, 1.37; P < 0.01) across increasing quartiles of AUC salivary cortisol. Mean salivary cortisol decreased from baseline (5.55, 4.58, 4.47, 4.79, 4.75 nmol/l) in officers with MetSyn and increased (5.08, 5.82, 5.92, 5.82, 5.60 nmol/l) in their counterparts. The test for interaction between MetSyn status and time of saliva collection was statistically significant (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Reduced cortisol response to a high-protein meal challenge may be associated with MetSyn. Future longitudinal studies could provide useful evidence for planning intervention studies on cardiovascular risk among police officers. |
Carbon nanotubes exposure risk assessment: from toxicology to epidemiologic studies (overview of the current problem)
Fatkhutdinova LM , Khaliullin TO , Shvedova AA . Nanotechnol Russ 2015 10 501-509 Nanoscale size and fiber like structure of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) may determine high reactivity and penetration, as well as the pathogenicity of asbestos and other mineral fibers. Despite many in vitro and in vivo studies, the absence of full-scale data on CNT effects on human health clearly point out the necessity for epidemiological studies. Currently, several projects are initiated worldwide on studying health risks associated with the inhalation of industrial CNTs, including NIOSH-promoted research (United States), the European CANTES study, and the Russian CNT-ERA project. Studies comprising several successive steps, such as CNT exposure assessment in occupational settings, toxicological evaluation, and epidemiological observations, are critical for determining material safety and use criteria. |
Variety, enjoyment, and physical activity participation among high school students
Michael SL , Coffield E , Lee SM , Fulton JE . J Phys Act Health 2015 13 (2) 223-30 BACKGROUND: Federal guidelines state that youth should participate in a variety of physical activity (PA) they find enjoyable. Little is known, however, about how variety and enjoyment are associated with PA participation among adolescents. METHODS: Data came from the 2010 National Youth Physical Activity and Nutrition Survey, a nationally representative survey of adolescents. Path analysis was used to examine the association of a variety of self-reported PA, defined as the number of activities and activity types (i.e., team sports/weightlifting, individual activities, and other competitive/recreational sports), on self-reported PA enjoyment and participation. The analysis also examined whether enjoyment mediates the association between a variety of PA and participation. Separate models were estimated for boys and girls. RESULTS: Number of activities was associated with increased PA enjoyment and participation. For boys and girls, team sports/weightlifting was associated with increased participation, and individual activities were indirectly associated with increased participation through enjoyment. For boys, team sports/weightlifting was indirectly related with participation. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that participation in a variety of PA is associated with increased PA enjoyment and participation. Providing opportunities for adolescents to engage in a variety of activities might help them identify PA they enjoy and facilitate lifelong PA habits. |
Physicians', nurses' and community health workers' knowledge about physical activity in Brazil: a cross-sectional study
Burdick L , Mielke GI , Parra DC , Gomes G , Florindo A , Bracco M , Lobelo F , Simoes EJ , Pratt M , Ramos LR , Moura L , Brownson RC , Hallal PC . Prev Med Rep 2015 2 467-472 OBJECTIVES: To measure knowledge of current recommendations of physical activity and consequences of physical inactivity among healthcare providers throughout Brazil. METHODS: A phone survey of 1600 randomly selected primary healthcare units in Brazil was conducted between January and July 2011. At each unit, a physician, nurse or community healthcare worker (n = 798) responded to a 40-minute survey, eliciting information about demographics, knowledge, and health behaviors pertaining to physical activity. RESULTS: Among nurses and community healthcare workers, > 95% reported needing more information on physical activity guidelines. Among physicians this proportion was 80%. Nearly 40% of the professionals incorrectly believed 90-min of moderate-intensity physical activity per week is the recommended amount for health benefits; nearly 30% believed that 90-min of vigorous-intensity activity per week is needed for the same purpose. More than 75% of all groups reported that type II diabetes, hypertension, depression, and coronary heart disease might result from physical inactivity, but on average only 60% from each group are aware of osteoporosis as a possible consequence of physical inactivity. CONCLUSIONS: Training health professionals in how to convey all relevant information about physical activity to their patients is critical for health promotion within the primary care system in Brazil. |
Exploring metrics to express energy expenditure of physical activity in youth
McMurray RG , Butte NF , Crouter SE , Trost SG , Pfeiffer KA , Bassett DR , Puyau MR , Berrigan D , Watson KB , Fulton JE . PLoS One 2015 10 (6) e0130869 BACKGROUND: Several approaches have been used to express energy expenditure in youth, but no consensus exists as to which best normalizes data for the wide range of ages and body sizes across a range of physical activities. This study examined several common metrics for expressing energy expenditure to determine whether one metric can be used for all healthy children. Such a metric could improve our ability to further advance the Compendium of Physical Activities for Youth. METHODS: A secondary analysis of oxygen uptake (VO2) data obtained from five sites was completed, that included 947 children ages 5 to 18 years, who engaged in 14 different activities. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) was computed based on Schofield Equations [Hum Nutr Clin Nut. 39(Suppl 1), 1985]. Absolute oxygen uptake (ml.min-1), oxygen uptake per kilogram body mass (VO2 in ml.kg-1.min-1), net oxygen uptake (VO2 - resting metabolic rate), allometric scaled oxygen uptake (VO2 in ml.kg-0.75.min-1) and YOUTH-MET (VO2.[resting VO2] -1) were calculated. These metrics were regressed with age, sex, height, and body mass. RESULTS: Net and allometric-scaled VO2, and YOUTH-MET were least associated with age, sex and physical characteristics. For moderate-to-vigorous intensity activities, allometric scaling was least related to age and sex. For sedentary and low-intensity activities, YOUTH-MET was least related to age and sex. CONCLUSIONS: No energy expenditure metric completely eliminated the influence of age, physical characteristics, and sex. The Adult MET consistently overestimated EE. YOUTH-MET was better for expressing energy expenditure for sedentary and light activities, whereas allometric scaling was better for moderate and vigorous intensity activities. From a practical perspective, The YOUTH-MET may be the more feasible metric for improving of the Compendium of Physical Activities for Youth. |
Associations of physical activity and sedentary behaviors with dietary behaviors among US high school students
Lowry R , Michael S , Demissie Z , Kann L , Galuska DA . J Obes 2015 2015 876524 BACKGROUND: Physical activity (PA), sedentary behaviors, and dietary behaviors are each associated with overweight and obesity among youth. However, the associations of PA and sedentary behaviors with dietary behaviors are complex and not well understood. Purpose. To describe the associations of PA and sedentary behaviors with dietary behaviors among a representative sample of US high school students. METHODS: We analyzed data from the 2010 National Youth Physical Activity and Nutrition Study (NYPANS). Using logistic regression models which controlled for sex, race/ethnicity, grade, body weight status, and weight management goals, we compared dietary behaviors among students who did and did not meet national recommendations for PA and sedentary behaviors. RESULTS: Students who participated in recommended levels of daily PA (DPA) and muscle strengthening PA (MSPA) were more likely than those who did not to eat fruits and vegetables. Students who exceeded recommended limits for television (TV) and computer/video game (C/VG) screen time were less likely than those who did not to consume fruits and vegetables and were more likely to consume fast food and sugar-sweetened beverages. CONCLUSIONS: Researchers may want to address PA, sedentary behaviors, and dietary behaviors jointly when developing health promotion and obesity prevention programs for youth. |
Endometriosis and assisted reproductive technology: United States trends and outcomes 2000-2011
Kawwass JF , Crawford S , Session DR , Kissin DM , Jamieson DJ . Fertil Steril 2015 103 (6) 1537-43 OBJECTIVE: To assess endometriosis-associated infertility trends among assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, and to compare cancellation and hyperstimulation risks and pregnancy and live birth rates among women using ART for endometriosis-associated vs. male factor infertility. DESIGN: Descriptive and multivariable analyses of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National ART Surveillance System data. SETTING: Fertility centers. PATIENT(S): All reported fresh autologous ART cycles in the United States between 2000 and 2011 (n = 1,589,079). INTERVENTION(S): None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Oocyte yield, hyperstimulation, cancellation, implantation, pregnancy, live birth. RESULT(S): The absolute number of ART cycles with an endometriosis diagnosis fell in recent years, from 16,751 (2000) to 15,311 (2011); the percentage fell over time, from 17.0% (2000) to 9.6% (2011) of all cycles. Compared with male factor (n = 375,557), endometriosis-associated cycles (n = 112,475) yielded fewer oocytes (50.5% vs. 42.5% of cycles with only 0-10 oocytes retrieved), lower risk of hyperstimulation (1.1% vs. 1.3%, adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74-0.91), and an increased risk of cancellation (12.9% vs. 10.1%, aRR 1.30, 95% CI 1.25-1.35). Endometriosis was associated with a statistically decreased but likely clinically insignificant difference in the following outcomes: chance of pregnancy per transfer (43.7% vs. 44.8%, aRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.95-0.98) among couples who did not also have tubal factor infertility and live birth per transfer (37.2% vs. 37.6%, aRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.98). CONCLUSION(S): The percentage of endometriosis-associated ART cycles has decreased over time. As compared with male factor infertility, endometriosis is associated with increased cancellation and decreased hyperstimulation risks. Despite decreased oocyte yield and higher medication dose, the difference in pregnancy and live birth rates may be of limited clinical significance, suggesting comparable pregnancy outcomes per transfer. |
Smoke-free home and vehicle rules by tobacco use status among US adults
Kruger J , Jama A , Homa DM , Babb SD , King BA . Prev Med 2015 78 9-13 OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence and characteristics of smoke-free home and vehicle rules by tobacco use. METHODS: Data came from the 2012-2013 National Adult Tobacco Survey, a telephone survey of adults aged ≥18. Respondents who reported smoking is 'never allowed' inside their home or any family vehicle were considered to have smoke-free home and vehicle rules, respectively. Prevalence and characteristics of smoke-free rules were assessed overall and by current tobacco use (combustible only, noncombustible only, combustible and noncombustible, no current tobacco use). Assessed characteristics included: sex, age, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, income, region, and sexual orientation. RESULTS: Nationally, 83.7% of adults (n=48,871) had smoke-free home rules and 78.1% (n=46,183) had smoke-free vehicle rules. By tobacco use, prevalence was highest among nonusers of tobacco (homes: 90.8%; vehicles: 88.9%) and lowest among combustible-only users (homes: 53.7%; vehicles: 34.2%). Prevalence of smoke-free home and vehicle rules was higher among males, adults with a graduate degree, and adults living in the West. CONCLUSIONS: Most adults have smoke-free home and vehicle rules, but differences exist by tobacco use. Opportunities exist to educate adults about the dangers of secondhand smoke and the benefits of smoke-free environments, particularly among combustible tobacco users. |
A national Asian-language smokers' quitline - United States, 2012-2014
Kuiper N , Zhang L , Lee J , Babb SD , Anderson CM , Shannon C , Welton M , Lew R , Zhu SH . Prev Chronic Dis 2015 12 E99 INTRODUCTION: Until recently, in-language telephone quitline services for smokers who speak Asian languages were available only in California. In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funded the national Asian Smokers' Quitline (ASQ) to expand this service to all states. The objective of this study was to examine characteristics of ASQ callers, how they heard about the quitline, and their use of the service. METHODS: Characteristics of callers from August 2012 through July 2014 were examined by using descriptive statistics. We examined demographics, cigarette smoking status, time to first cigarette, how callers heard about the quitline, and service use (receipt of counseling and medication) by using ASQ intake and administrative data. We analyzed these data by language and state. RESULTS: In 2 years, 5,771 callers from 48 states completed intake; 31% were Chinese (Cantonese or Mandarin), 38% were Korean, and 31% were Vietnamese. More than 95% of all callers who used tobacco were current daily cigarette smokers at intake. About 87% of ASQ callers were male, 57% were aged 45 to 64 years, 48% were uninsured, and educational attainment varied. Most callers (54%) were referred by newspapers or magazines. Nearly all eligible callers (99%) received nicotine patches. About 85% of smokers enrolled in counseling; counseled smokers completed an average of 4 sessions. CONCLUSION: ASQ reached Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese speakers nationwide. Callers were referred by the promotional avenues employed by ASQ, and most received services (medication, counseling, or both). State quitlines and local organizations should consider transferring callers and promoting ASQ to increase access to cessation services. |
Nicotine delivery and pharmacologic response from Verve, an oral nicotine delivery product
Koszowski B , Viray LC , Stanfill SB , Lisko JG , Rosenberry ZR , Potts JL , Pickworth WB . Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2015 136 1-6 Verve, an oral nicotine delivery product (ONDP), was introduced by Nu Mark (Altria Client Group, Richmond VA) for smokers to use in places where smoking is prohibited. This study assessed the effect of this ONDP on plasma nicotine levels, heart rate, product satisfaction, and ability to suppress smoking urge and cigarette cravings. Thirteen daily cigarette smokers [8 men and 5 women; average age 33.4years] attended two laboratory sessions, one occurred after overnight tobacco abstinence. Plasma samples were collected before and after ONDP use and measured for nicotine. In non-abstinent smokers, mean plasma nicotine levels increased from 18.3 to 21.0ng/mL. In abstinent smokers, average nicotine levels increased from 3.1 to 4.5ng/mL. After overnight tobacco abstinence, ONDP use significantly (p<0.01) increased heart rate from 69 beats per minute (bpm) to 75bpm; while urge to smoke decreased significantly (p<0.01) from a score of 8.6 to 4.9. Participants indicated moderate product satisfaction that was not changed by tobacco abstinence. Analysis of unused ONDP revealed total nicotine levels of 1.68+/-0.09mg/disc. Spent ONDP discs were also analyzed to determine % nicotine liberated during chewing; results were 80% in the non-abstinent and 82% in the abstinent conditions (ns). Our study results indicate ONDP use can increase plasma nicotine levels and heart rate and reduce cigarette cravings in abstinent smokers. |
Two state model for a constant disease hazard in paratuberculosis (and other bovine diseases)
Louzoun Y , Mitchell R , Behar H , Schukken Y . Vet Res 2015 46 (1) 67 Many diseases are characterized by a long and varying sub-clinical period. Two main mechanisms can explain such periods: a slow progress toward disease or a sudden transition from a healthy state to a disease state induced by internal or external events. We here survey epidemiological features of the amount of bacteria shed during Mycobacterium Avium Paratuberculosis (MAP) infection to test which of these two models, slow progression or sudden transition (or a combination of the two), better explains the transition from intermittent and low shedding to high shedding. Often, but not always, high shedding is associated with the occurrence of clinical signs. In the case of MAP, the clinical signs include diarrhea, low milk production, poor fertility and eventually emaciation and death. We propose a generic model containing bacterial growth, immune control and fluctuations. This proposed generic model can represent the two hypothesized types of transitions in different parameter regimes. The results show that the sudden transition model provides a simpler explanation of the data, but also suffers from some limitations. We discuss the different immunological mechanism that can explain and support the sudden transition model and the interpretation of each term in the studied model. These conclusions are applicable to a wide variety of diseases, and MAP serves as a good test case based on the large scale measurements of single cow longitudinal profiles in this disease. |
Differences in intermittent and continuous fecal shedding patterns between natural and experimental Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis infections in cattle
Mitchell RM , Schukken Y , Koets A , Weber M , Bakker D , Stabel J , Whitlock RH , Louzoun Y . Vet Res 2015 46 (1) 66 The objective of this paper is to study shedding patterns of cows infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). While multiple single farm studies of MAP dynamics were reported, there is not large scale meta-analysis of both natural and experimental infections. Large difference in shedding patterns between experimentally and naturally infected cows were observed. Experimental infections are thus probably driven by different pathological mechanisms. For further evaluations of shedding patterns only natural infections were used. Within such infections, the transition to high shedding was studied as a proxy to the development of a clinical disease. The majority of studied cows never developed high shedding levels. Those that do, typically never reduced their shedding level to low or no shedding. Cows that eventually became high shedders showed a pattern of continuous shedding. In contrast, cows with an intermittent shedding pattern had a low probability to ever become high shedders. In addition, cows that start shedding at a younger age (less than three years of age) have a lower hazard of becoming high shedders compared to cows starting to shed at an older age. These data suggest the presence of three categories of immune control. Cows that are intermittent shedders have the infection process under control (no progressive infection). Cows that start shedding persistently at a young age partially control the infection, but eventually will be high shedders (slow progressive infection), while cows that start shedding persistently at an older age cannot effectively control the infection and become high shedders rapidly. |
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