CDC activities to enhance training in cancer prevention and control in field epidemiology training programs in low- and middle-income countries
Senkomago V , Joseph R , Sierra M , Van Dyne E , Endeshaw M , Duran D , Sugerman DE , Saraiya M . J Glob Oncol 2018 4 (4) 1-9 Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In 2012, there were > 14 million new cancer cases and > 8 million cancer deaths, with 70% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Part of the success of cancer prevention and control efforts requires the development and strengthening of the public health workforce, particularly in LMICs where the cancer burden is the greatest. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports workforce capacity development globally through Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) established in ministries of health in > 70 countries. To enhance training in cancer prevention and control in FETPs, the CDC has developed an open-access curriculum in applied cancer epidemiology and supports FETP trainees who conduct cancer-related planned projects. The curriculum contains modules on cancer registration, screening, and comprehensive cancer control that are particularly relevant to current cancer control efforts in many LMICs. Pilot testing of the curriculum showed an increase in trainees' cancer knowledge and covered content trainees found to be relevant to their field epidemiology training and projects and future work in cancer prevention and control. Since 2013, the CDC has supported 13 trainees with cancer-related projects; two have published articles, two have presented their results at international conferences, and others are writing manuscripts on their project outcomes. Through the development of an open-access applied cancer epidemiology curriculum and by supporting cancer-related projects for FETP trainees, the CDC provided technical assistance for LMICs to build capacity for cancer prevention and control efforts. |
Close to 1 million US adults aged 55 years or older have active epilepsy - National Health Interview Survey, 2010, 2013, and 2015
Sapkota S , Kobau R , Pastula DM , Zack MM . Epilepsy Behav 2018 87 233-234 Epilepsy is common in older adults because known risk factors-such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, cerebrovascular disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and neoplasms-increase with age. This study uses the most recent data from the 2010, 2013, and 2015 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) to provide updated national estimates of epilepsy prevalence among US adults aged 55years or older to help guide public health action. We used the following validated surveillance case definition for active epilepsy: adults with self-reported doctor-diagnosed epilepsy or seizure disorder who reported either currently taking medications to treat their epilepsy or seizure disorder or at least one seizure during the past 12months. We estimated the prevalence of active epilepsy to be 1.4% (about 529,000) among US adults aged 55-64, 0.9% (225,000) for those aged 65-74, and 1.0% (178,000) for those aged >/=75years. The prevalence of a history of epilepsy and active epilepsy among adults aged 55-64years was significantly higher than the prevalence in older age groups. Collectively, close to 1 million adults aged 55years or older reported active epilepsy. Epilepsy stakeholders should ensure that older adults with epilepsy have access to age-appropriate clinical preventive services, chronic disease self-management support, specialty care for epilepsy and other comorbidities, and appropriate community services to promote quality of life. |
Estimation of the prevalence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the United States using National Administrative Healthcare Data from 2002 to 2004 and CAPTURE-RECAPTURE METHODOLOGY
Nelson LM , Topol B , Kaye W , Williamson D , Horton DK , Mehta P , Wagner T . Neuroepidemiology 2018 51 149-157 BACKGROUND: National administrative healthcare data may be used as a case-finding method for prevalence studies of chronic disease in the United States, but the completeness of ascertainment likely varies depending on the disease under study. METHODS: We used 3 case-finding sources (Medicare, Medicaid, and Veterans Administration data) to estimate the prevalence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the United States for 2002-2004, and applied the capture-recapture methodology to estimate the degree of under-ascertainment when relying solely on these sources for case identification. RESULTS: Case-finding completeness was 76% overall and did not vary by race, but was lower for males (77%) than for females (88%), and lower for patients under age 65 (66%) than patients over age 65 (79%). The uncorrected ALS prevalence ratio was 2.8/100,000 in 2002, 3.3/100,000 in 2003, and 3.7/100,000 in 2004. After correcting for under-ascertainment, the annual prevalence increased by approximately 1 per 100,000 to 3.7/100,000 in 2002 (95% CI 3.66-3.80), 4.4/100,000 in 2003 (95% CI 4.34-4.50), and 4.8/100,000 in 2004 (95% CI 4.76-4.91). CONCLUSIONS: Federal healthcare claims databases ascertained are a very efficient method for identifying the majority of ALS-prevalent cases in the National ALS Registry, and may be enhanced by having patients self-register through the registry web portal. |
Periodontitis in US Adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009-2014
Eke PI , Thornton-Evans GO , Wei L , Borgnakke WS , Dye BA , Genco RJ . J Am Dent Assoc 2018 149 (7) 576-588.e6 BACKGROUND: This report presents weighted average estimates of the prevalence of periodontitis in the adult US population during the 6 years 2009-2014 and highlights key findings of a national periodontitis surveillance project. METHODS: Estimates were derived for dentate adults 30 years or older from the civilian noninstitutionalized population whose periodontitis status was assessed by means of a full-mouth periodontal examination at 6 sites per tooth on all non-third molar teeth. Results are reported according to a standard format by applying the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/American Academy of Periodontology periodontitis case definitions for surveillance, as well as various thresholds of clinical attachment loss and periodontal probing depth. RESULTS: An estimated 42% of dentate US adults 30 years or older had periodontitis, with 7.8% having severe periodontitis. Overall, 3.3% of all periodontally probed sites (9.1% of all teeth) had periodontal probing depth of 4 millimeters or greater, and 19.0% of sites (37.1% of teeth) had clinical attachment loss of 3 mm or greater. Severe periodontitis was most prevalent among adults 65 years or older, Mexican Americans, non-Hispanic blacks, and smokers. CONCLUSIONS: This nationally representative study shows that periodontitis is a highly prevalent oral disease among US adults. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Dental practitioners should be aware of the high prevalence of periodontitis in US adults and may provide preventive care and counselling for periodontitis. General dentists who encounter patients with periodontitis may refer these patients to see a periodontist for specialty care. |
Sleep duration and excess heart age among US adults
Yang Q , Durmer JL , Wheaton AG , Jackson SL , Zhang Z . Sleep Health 2018 4 (5) 448-455 Objectives: Insufficient sleep negatively impacts the cardiovascular system. No study has examined the association between sleep duration and heart age (person's predicted vascular age based on cardiovascular disease [CVD] risk profile). This study examines association between sleep duration and excess heart age (EHA; difference between heart age and chronological age) among US adults. Design and participants: Cross-sectional 2007-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data for respondents aged 30-74 years without CVD or stroke (n = 12,775). Measurements: Self-reported sleep duration was classified into 5 categories (≤5, 6, 7, 8, and ≥9 hours). We used sex-specific Framingham heart age algorithm to calculate heart age and multivariable linear regression to examine association between sleep duration and EHA. Results: A total of 13.4% (95% confidence interval 12.5-14.3), 24.2% (23.1-25.2), 31.0% (29.8-32.3), 25.9% (25.0-26.9), and 5.5% (5.0-6.1) reported sleeping ≤5, 6, 7, 8, and ≥9 hours, respectively. We observed a nonlinear relationship between sleep duration and EHA using 7 hours as reference: EHA (adjusted for sociodemographics, body mass index, physical activity, Healthy Eating Index-2010, sleep disorder, and depression status) was 5.1 (4.8-5.8), 4.5 (3.9-5.1), 3.7 (3.3-4.0), 4.5 (4.1-5.0), and 4.1 (3.3-4.9) years for sleep durations of ≤5, 6, 7, 8 and ≥9 hours, respectively (P =.015 for quadratic trend). EHA was significantly higher among participants with lower education, lower income, and obesity. Conclusion: Mean adjusted EHA was lowest among adults who reported sleeping 7 hours per night and increased as adults reported sleeping fewer or more hours. Discussing sleep duration in the context of EHA may be helpful for patients and clinicians. |
Capsule-Negative emm Types Are an Increasing Cause of Pediatric Group A Streptococcal Infections at a Large Pediatric Hospital in Texas.
Flores AR , Chase McNeil J , Shah B , Van Beneden C , Shelburne SA3rd . J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2018 8 (3) 244-250 Background: Bacterial infections caused by group A Streptococcus (GAS) are common in childhood. Few study reports have provided data on pediatric-specific trends in the epidemiology and bacterial strain characteristics of GAS infections. Methods: We prospectively collected GAS isolates from the clinical microbiology laboratory at Texas Children's Hospital between July 1, 2013, and June 30, 2017. Patient characteristics and GAS disease categories were determined through chart review. GAS isolates were obtained from patients in either the inpatient or outpatient setting, and cases were defined as pharyngeal disease, skin and soft-tissue infection (SSTI), or invasive disease on the basis of predefined criteria. All isolates were emm typed to determine trends over time. Results: We identified 930 cases over the 4-year period, including 432 (46.4%) pharyngeal, 235 (25.3%) SSTI, and 263 (28.3%) invasive disease types. The most frequently encountered emm types were emm1 (21.4%), emm12 (15.7%), emm89 (14.6%), emm4 (9.2%), and emm3 (8.2%). We observed significant changes over the 4-year period in the relative frequency of infections caused by emm1 (-17.7%; P = .046), emm4 (8.7%; P = .023), or emm6 (-7.9%; P = .024). Using bioinformatic analyses and targeted gene sequencing, we also discovered that all GAS emm28 and emm87 types harbored mutations that rendered them incapable of producing capsule. The relative frequency of GAS disease cases caused by capsule-negative GAS emm types (emm4, emm22, emm28, emm87, and emm89) increased over the 4-year period (32.2%-44.4%), although the difference was statistically significant for only nonpharyngeal disease types (27.1%-43.9%; P = .038). Conclusions: Our data suggest an evolving epidemiology of GAS in the Houston pediatric population characterized by an increase in the frequency of capsule-negative emm types. |
Mapping of the US Domestic Influenza Virologic Surveillance Landscape.
Jester B , Schwerzmann J , Mustaquim D , Aden T , Brammer L , Humes R , Shult P , Shahangian S , Gubareva L , Xu X , Miller J , Jernigan D . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (7) 1300-6 Influenza virologic surveillance is critical each season for tracking influenza circulation, following trends in antiviral drug resistance, detecting novel influenza infections in humans, and selecting viruses for use in annual seasonal vaccine production. We developed a framework and process map for characterizing the landscape of US influenza virologic surveillance into 5 tiers of influenza testing: outpatient settings (tier 1), inpatient settings and commercial laboratories (tier 2), state public health laboratories (tier 3), National Influenza Reference Center laboratories (tier 4), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention laboratories (tier 5). During the 2015-16 season, the numbers of influenza tests directly contributing to virologic surveillance were 804,000 in tiers 1 and 2; 78,000 in tier 3; 2,800 in tier 4; and 3,400 in tier 5. With the release of the 2017 US Pandemic Influenza Plan, the proposed framework will support public health officials in modeling, surveillance, and pandemic planning and response. |
Enhanced surveillance for coccidioidomycosis, 14 US states, 2016
Benedict K , Ireland M , Weinberg MP , Gruninger RJ , Weigand J , Chen L , Perez-Lockett K , Bledsoe C , Denny L , Cibulskas K , Gibbons-Burgener S , Kocharian A , DeBess E , Miller TK , Lepp A , Cronquist L , Warren K , Serrano JA , Loveland C , Turabelidze G , McCotter O , Jackson BR . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1444-1452 Although coccidioidomycosis in Arizona and California has been well-characterized, much remains unknown about its epidemiology in states where it is not highly endemic. We conducted enhanced surveillance in 14 such states in 2016 by identifying cases according to the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists case definition and interviewing patients about their demographic characteristics, clinical features, and exposures. Among 186 patients, median time from seeking healthcare to diagnosis was 38 days (range 1-1,654 days); 70% had another condition diagnosed before coccidioidomycosis testing occurred (of whom 83% were prescribed antibacterial medications); 43% were hospitalized; and 29% had culture-positive coccidioidomycosis. Most (83%) patients from nonendemic states had traveled to a coccidioidomycosis-endemic area. Coccidioidomycosis can cause severe disease in residents of non-highly endemic states, a finding consistent with previous studies in Arizona, and less severe cases likely go undiagnosed or unreported. Improved coccidioidomycosis awareness in non-highly endemic areas is needed. |
Epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance of invasive non-typhoidal Salmonellosis in rural Thailand from 2006-2014
Whistler T , Sapchookul P , McCormick DW , Sangwichian O , Jorakate P , Makprasert S , Jatapai A , Naorat S , Surin U , Koosakunwat S , Supcharassaeng S , Piralam B , Mikoleit M , Baggett HC , Rhodes J , Gregory CJ . PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018 12 (8) e0006718 INTRODUCTION: Invasive salmonellosis is a common cause of bloodstream infection in Southeast Asia. Limited epidemiologic and antimicrobial resistance data are available from the region. METHODS: Blood cultures performed in all 20 hospitals in the northeastern province of Nakhon Phanom (NP) and eastern province of Sa Kaeo (SK), Thailand were captured in a bloodstream infection surveillance system. Cultures were performed as clinically indicated in hospitalized patients; patients with multiple positive cultures had only the first included. Bottles were incubated using the BacT/Alert system (bioMerieux, Thailand) and isolates were identified using standard microbiological techniques; all Salmonella isolates were classified to at least the serogroup level. Antimicrobial resistance was assessed using disk diffusion. RESULTS: Salmonella was the fifth most common pathogen identified in 147,535 cultures with 525 cases (211 in Nakhon Phanom (NP) and 314 in Sa Kaeo (SK)). The overall adjusted iNTS incidence rate in NP was 4.0 cases/100,000 person-years (95% CI 3.5-4.5) and in SK 6.4 cases/100,000 person-years (95% CI 5.7-7.1; p = 0.001). The most common serogroups were C (39.4%), D (35.0%) and B (9.9%). Serogroup D predominated in NP (103/211) with 59.2% of this serogroup being Salmonella serovar Enteritidis. Serogroup C predominated in SK (166/314) with 84.3% of this serogroup being Salmonella serovar Choleraesuis. Antibiotic resistance was 68.2% (343/503) for ampicillin, 1.2% (6/482) for ciprofloxacin (or 58.1% (280/482) if both intermediate and resistant phenotypes are considered), 17.0% (87/512) for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and 12.2% (59/484) for third-generation cephalosporins (cefotaxime or ceftazidime). Multidrug resistance was seen in 99/516 isolates (19.2%). CONCLUSIONS: The NTS isolates causing bloodstream infections in rural Thailand are commonly resistant to ampicillin, cefotaxime, and TMP-SMX. Observed differences between NP and SK indicate that serogroup distribution and antibiotic resistance may substantially differ throughout Thailand and the region. |
Extrapulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial disease surveillance - Oregon, 2014-2016
Shih DC , Cassidy PM , Perkins KM , Crist MB , Cieslak PR , Leman RL . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018 67 (31) 854-857 Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), ubiquitous in soil and water, usually infect immunocompromised persons. However, even healthy persons are susceptible to infection through percutaneous inoculation. Although 77% of NTM diseases manifest as primarily pulmonary illnesses (1), NTM also infect skin, bones, joints, the lymphatic system, and soft tissue. NTM infections can have incubation periods that exceed 5 years (2), often require prolonged treatment, and can lead to sepsis and death. Extrapulmonary NTM outbreaks have been reported in association with contaminated surgical gentian violet (3), nail salon pedicures (4), and tattoos received at tattoo parlors (5), although few surveillance data have been available for estimating the public health burden of NTM.* On January 1, 2014, the Oregon Health Authority designated extrapulmonary NTM disease a reportable condition. To characterize extrapulmonary NTM infection, estimate resources required for surveillance, and assess the usefulness of surveillance in outbreak detection and investigation, 2014-2016 extrapulmonary NTM surveillance data were reviewed, and interviews with stakeholders were conducted. During 2014-2016, 134 extrapulmonary NTM cases (11 per 1 million persons per year) were reported in Oregon. The age distribution was bimodal, with highest incidence among persons aged <10 years (20 per 1 million persons per year) and persons aged 60-69 years (18 per 1 million persons per year). The most frequently reported predisposing factors (occurring within 14-70 days of symptom onset) were soil exposure (41/98; 42%), immunocompromised condition (42/124; 34%), and surgery (32/120; 27%). Overall, 43 (33%) patients were hospitalized, 18 (15%) developed sepsis, and one (0.7%) died. Surveillance detected or helped to control two outbreaks at low cost. Jurisdictions interested in implementing extrapulmonary NTM surveillance can use the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) standardized case definition (6) for extrapulmonary NTM reporting or investigative guidelines maintained by the Oregon Health Authority (7). |
Fatal nongroupable Neisseria meningitidis disease in vaccinated patient receiving eculizumab
Nolfi-Donegan D , Konar M , Vianzon V , MacNeil J , Cooper J , Lurie P , Sedivy J , Wang X , Granoff DM , McNamara L . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1561-4 Patients receiving eculizumab have an increased risk for meningococcal disease, but most reported cases are attributable to encapsulated meningococcal strains. We describe a case in which a nongroupable meningococcal strain, which rarely causes disease in healthy persons, caused fatal disease in an eculizumab recipient despite meningococcal vaccination. |
Gaps in the clinical management of influenza: A century since the 1918 pandemic
Uyeki TM , Fowler RA , Fischer WA2nd . JAMA 2018 320 (8) 755-756 This year marks the centennial of the devastating 1918 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic, which killed an estimated 50 million people worldwide. Prevention and control activities were limited in 1918 because global surveillance did not exist, influenza viruses were not yet discovered, and no influenza vaccines had been developed. Diagnostic tests for influenza were unavailable prior to isolation of influenza viruses in the 1930s, so spread of the pandemic virus was tracked by news reports of increased respiratory disease and related deaths. Establishment of the World Health Organization’s Global Influenza Surveillance Network in 1952 has contributed substantially to coordinated surveillance, vaccine development, and influenza vaccine strain selection. |
Hepatitis C virus infection in children: How do we prevent it and how do we treat it
Nwaohiri A , Schillie S , Bulterys M , Kourtis AP . Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2018 16 (9) 689-694 INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection is an important contributor to the worldwide burden of liver-related morbidity and mortality. Mother-to-child transmission of HCV ranges from 6-11% in different populations globally, but accurate estimates on the burden of pediatric HCV infection are limited because screening approaches are not consistent. Areas covered: The advent of new direct-acting antiviral agents that achieve very high rates of sustained virologic response, (representing virologic cure) with short (i.e., 8 to 12 weeks) regimens has revolutionized the field of HCV treatment and led to the development of global elimination goals for HCV transmission and mortality. However, information on their safety during pregnancy and efficacy in preventing mother-to-child transmission is lacking. Currently, there are no approved treatment regimens with these antiviral agents for children younger than 12 years of age. Expert Commentary: If these agents are shown to be safe during pregnancy and effective in preventing transmission to the infant, screening of pregnant women and antenatal treatment of those infected, could pave the way for eliminating pediatric HCV infection- particularly as these drugs become less costly and more accessible. Treatment of infected children when indicated, along with universal safe health care practices, can further pediatric HCV elimination. |
High prevalence of sexually transmitted infections among women screened for a contraceptive intravaginal ring study, Kisumu, Kenya, 2014
Oliver VO , Otieno G , Gvetadze R , Desai MA , Makanga M , Akelo V , Gust DA , Nyagol B , McLellan-Lemal E . Int J STD AIDS 2018 29 (14) 956462418782810 We assessed prevalence and correlates of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), gonorrhoea (GC), syphilis (SYP), Chlamydia (CT) and HIV among Kenyan women aged 18-34 years who were screened for a contraceptive intravaginal ring study. Women provided demographic, behavioural and medical information, and underwent medical evaluation, including a pelvic exam. We computed crude and adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) using log-binomial regression. Of 463 women screened, 457 provided laboratory specimens and were included in the analysis. The median age was 25 years, interquartile range (21-28), and 68.5% had completed primary or lower education. Overall, 72.2% tested positive for any STI or BV. Point prevalence was 55.6, 38.5, 3.9, 2.0, 4.6, and 14.7% for HSV-2, BV, GC, SYP, CT, and HIV, respectively. Co-infection with HSV-2, BV, and HIV occurred in 28 (6.1%) participants. Having >/=1 STI/BV was associated with younger age at first sex (</=13 versus 17-19 years, aPR=1.27, 95% CI 1.07-1.51), history of exchange sex (aPR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.07-3.92), sexual intercourse in the past seven days (aPR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.01-1.36), and older age (30-34 versus 18-24 years, aPR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.06-1.48). STI/BV diagnosis was less likely for women reporting one lifetime sexual partner compared to women with >/=4 lifetime sexual partners (aPR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.54-0.92). Combination prevention approaches (biomedical, behavioural, social, and structural) tailored to women with diverse risk profiles may help mitigate STI/BV prevalence in this setting. |
A model for rapid, active surveillance for medically-attended acute gastroenteritis within an integrated health care delivery system
Schmidt MA , Groom HC , Naleway AL , Biggs C , Salas SB , Shioda K , Marsh Z , Donald JL , Hall AJ . PLoS One 2018 13 (8) e0201805 BACKGROUND: This study presents a novel methodology for estimating all-age, population-based incidence rates of norovirus and other pathogens that contribute to acute gastroenteritis in the United States using an integrated healthcare delivery system as a surveillance platform. METHODS: All cases of medically attended acute gastroenteritis within the delivery system were identified from April 1, 2014 through September 30, 2016. A sample of these eligible patients were selected to participate in two phone-based surveys and to self-collect a stool sample for laboratory testing. To ascertain household transmission patterns, information on household members with acute gastroenteritis was gathered from participants, and symptomatic household members were contacted to participate in a survey and provide stool sample as well. RESULTS: 54% of individuals who met enrollment criteria agreed to participate, and 76% of those individuals returned a stool sample. Among household members, 85% of eligible individuals agreed to participate, and 68% of those returned a stool sample. Participant demographics were similar to those of the eligible population, although minority racial/ethnic groups were somewhat underrepresented in the final sample. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting acute infectious disease research within an integrated health care delivery system. The surveillance, sampling, recruitment, and data collection methods described here are broadly applicable to conduct baseline and epidemiological assessments, as well as for other research requiring representative samples of stool specimens. |
Preventing global human papillomavirus-associated lower genital disease
Lawson HW , Saraiya M . J Low Genit Tract Dis 2018 22 (4) 267-268 Since the mid-20th century, many countries around the globe have achieved great reductions in the burden of cervical cancer and other lower genital tract neoplasms, initially by using cervical cytology screening with follow-up of abnormal tests, and later by (1) recognizing the human papillomavirus (HPV) as the primary cause of cervical neoplasia, (2) employing laboratory tests developed to detect HPV (3) identifying specific viral types considered high risk, and (4) developing preventive vaccines that currently reduce the risk of infection with viruses associated with several lower genital tract cancer precursors. In countries that implemented cytology-based programs, a 50%–90% reduction of cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates has been observed.1 Unfortunately, the application of this great health benefit has not been universal. As our knowledge expands about the burden of HPV-associated diseases among individuals in adequately resourced nations for whom limited screening and primary prevention exist, we are far behind in applying our knowledge and expertise to those in underserved nations with limited or no wellness resources. |
Prevention and control of youth camp-associated acute gastroenteritis outbreaks
Kambhampati AK , Marsh ZA , Hlavsa MC , Roberts VA , Vieira AR , Yoder JS , Hall AJ . J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2018 8 (5) 392-399 Background: Approximately 14 million children attend more than 14000 US camps every year. Shared accommodations and activities can facilitate acute gastroenteritis (AGE) outbreaks. Methods: We analyzed data from the National Outbreak Reporting System on US youth camp-associated AGE outbreaks that occurred between 2009 and 2016. We also conducted a systematic literature search of youth camp-associated AGE outbreaks that have occurred around the world and a gray literature search for existing recommendations on outbreak prevention and control at camps worldwide. Results: Thirty-nine US jurisdictions reported a total of 229 youth camp-associated AGE outbreaks to the National Outbreak Reporting System. Of the 226 outbreaks included in our analyses, 120 (53%) were reported to have resulted from person-to-person transmission, 42 (19%) from an unknown transmission mode, 38 (17%) from foodborne transmission, 19 (8%) from waterborne transmission, 5 (2%) from animal contact, and 2 (<1%) from environmental contamination. Among 170 (75%) outbreaks with a single suspected or confirmed etiology, norovirus (107 [63%] outbreaks), Salmonella spp (16 [9%]), and Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (12 [7%]) were implicated most frequently. We identified 43 additional youth camp-associated AGE outbreaks in the literature that occurred in various countries between 1938 and 2014. Control measures identified through the literature search included camp closure, separation of ill campers, environmental disinfection, and education on food preparation and hand hygiene. Conclusions: Youth camp-associated AGE outbreaks are caused by numerous pathogens every year. These outbreaks are facilitated by factors that include improper food preparation, inadequate cleaning and disinfection, shared accommodations, and contact with animals. Health education focused on proper hygiene and preventing disease transmission could help control or prevent these outbreaks. |
Progress and remaining gaps in estimating the global disease burden of influenza
Bresee J , Fitzner J , Campbell H , Cohen C , Cozza V , Jara J , Krishnan A , Lee V . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (7) 1173-1177 Influenza has long been a global public health priority because of the threat of another global pandemic. Although data are available for the annual burden of seasonal influenza in many developed countries, fewer disease burden data are available for low-income and tropical countries. In recent years, however, the surveillance systems created as part of national pandemic preparedness efforts have produced substantial data on the epidemiology and impact of influenza in countries where data were sparse. These data are leading to greater interest in seasonal influenza, including implementation of vaccination programs. However, a lack of quality data on severe influenza, nonrespiratory outcomes, and high-risk groups, as well as a need for better mathematical models and economic evaluations, are some of the major gaps that remain. These gaps are the focus of multilateral research and surveillance efforts that will strengthen global efforts in influenza control in the future. |
Prototheca zopfii colitis in inherited CARD9 deficiency
Sari S , Dalgic B , Muehlenbachs A , DeLeon-Carnes M , Goldsmith CS , Ekinci O , Jain D , Keating MK , Vilarinho S . J Infect Dis 2018 218 (3) 485-489 Human protothecosis is a rare microalgae infection, and its dissemination typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals, but no specific immune defect has been reported. Here, we describe an 8-year-old daughter of a consanguineous union with abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea for 3 months who was found to have pancolitis with numerous microalgae identified as Prototheca zopfii. In the absence of a known immunodeficiency, exome sequencing was performed, which uncovered a novel recessive frameshift mutation in CARD9 (p.V261fs). This report highlights that CARD9 deficiency should be investigated in patients with unexplained systemic/visceral protothecosis and suggests a new mechanistic insight into anti-Prototheca immunity. |
Public health consequences of a 2013 measles outbreak in New York City
Rosen JB , Arciuolo RJ , Khawja AM , Fu J , Giancotti FR , Zucker JR . JAMA Pediatr 2018 172 (9) 811-817 Importance: Internationally imported cases of measles into the United States can lead to outbreaks requiring extensive and rapid control measures. Importation of measles from an unvaccinated adolescent in 2013 led to what has been the largest outbreak of measles in New York City, New York, since 1992. Objective: To describe the epidemiology and public health burden in terms of resources and cost of the 2013 measles outbreak in New York City. Design, Setting, and Participants: This epidemiologic assessment and cost analysis conducted between August 15, 2013, and August 5, 2014, examined all outbreak-associated cases of measles among persons residing in New York City in 2013. Exposures: Measles virus. Main Outcomes and Measures: Numbers of measles cases and contacts. Total personnel time and total direct cost to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), calculated as the sum of inputs (supplies and materials, equipment, and logistics) and personnel time (salary and fringe benefits). Results: Between March 13, 2013, and June 9, 2013, 58 persons in New York City with a median age of 3 years (range, 0-32 years) were identified as having measles. Among these individuals, 45 (78%) were at least 12 months old and were unvaccinated owing to parental refusal or intentional delay. Only 28 individuals (48%) visited a medical health care professional who suspected measles and reported the case to the DOHMH at the initial clinical suspicion. Many case patients were not immediately placed into airborne isolation, resulting in exposures in 11 health care facilities. In total, 3351 exposed contacts were identified. Total direct costs to the New York City DOHMH were $394448, and a total of 10054 hours were consumed responding to and controlling the outbreak. Conclusions and Relevance: Vaccine refusals and delays appeared to have propagated a large outbreak following importation of measles into the United States. Prompt recognition of measles along with rapid implementation of airborne isolation of individuals suspected of measles infection in health care facilities and timely reporting to public health agencies may avoid large numbers of exposures. The response and containment of measles outbreaks are resource intensive. |
Identification of Anopheles species in Sud Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, using molecular tools.
Bandibabone J , Muhigwa JB , Agramonte NM , Zawadi B , Ombeni L , Corredor-Medina C , Lawrence GG , Chimanuka B , Irish SR . Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018 112 (8) 405-407 The mosquito fauna of the Democratic Republic of Congo remains understudied, including that of the province of Sud Kivu. To improve understanding of species presenting Sud Kivu, adult mosquitoes were collected from houses and larvae were collected from standing water at altitudes between 1627 and 1875 m above sea level. Morphological and molecular methods were used to identify the species of Anopheles collected. Six species were found, including several primary and potential secondary malaria vectors. Further work is needed to characterize mosquito populations in Sud Kivu, as well as to improve methods for identifying Anopheles in general. |
Do water, sanitation and hygiene conditions in primary schools consistently support schoolgirls' menstrual needs A longitudinal study in rural western Kenya
Alexander KT , Zulaika G , Nyothach E , Oduor C , Mason L , Obor D , Eleveld A , Laserson KF , Phillips-Howard PA . Int J Environ Res Public Health 2018 15 (8) Many females lack access to water, privacy and basic sanitation-felt acutely when menstruating. Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) conditions in schools, such as access to latrines, water, and soap, are essential for the comfort, equity, and dignity of menstruating girls. Our study was nested within a cluster randomized controlled pilot feasibility study where nurses provided menstrual items to schoolgirls. We observed the WASH conditions of 30 schools from June 2012(-)October 2013 to see if there were any changes in conditions, to compare differences between study arms and to examine agreement between observed and teacher-reported conditions. Data came from study staff observed, and school head teacher reported, WASH conditions. We developed scores for the condition of school facilities to report any changes in conditions and compare outcomes across study arms. Results demonstrated that soap availability for students increased significantly between baseline and follow-up while there was a significant decrease in the number of "acceptable" latrines. During the study follow-up period, individual WASH indicators supporting menstruating girls, such as locks on latrine doors or water availability in latrines did not significantly improve. Advances in WASH conditions for all students, and menstrual hygiene facilities for schoolgirls, needs further support, a defined budget, and regular monitoring of WASH facilities to maintain standards. |
Prenatal concentrations of perfluoroalkyl substances and bone health in British girls at age 17
Jeddy Z , Tobias JH , Taylor EV , Northstone K , Flanders WD , Hartman TJ . Arch Osteoporos 2018 13 (1) 84 Prenatal exposures to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been associated with developmental outcomes in offspring. We found that prenatal concentrations of some PFAS may be associated with reduced bone mass and size in 17-year-old British girls, although it is not clear whether these associations are driven by body size. PURPOSE: PFAS are used to make protective coatings on common household products. Prenatal exposures have been associated with developmental outcomes in offspring. Using data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), we investigated the association between prenatal concentrations of PFAS and bone health in girls at 17 years of age and whether body composition can explain any associations. METHODS: We measured concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) in maternal serum samples collected during pregnancy. We obtained bone health outcomes in the girls, such as bone mineral density, bone mineral content, bone area, and area-adjusted bone mineral content from whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans. We used multivariable linear regression to explore associations between each PFAS and each bone health outcome with adjustment for important confounders such as girls' age at clinic visit, maternal education, and gestational age at sample collection. We also controlled for girls' height and lean mass to explore the role body composition had on observed associations. RESULTS: Prenatal PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, and PFNA concentrations were associated with inverse effects on bone size and mass after adjusting for important confounders. Conversely, PFNA was positively associated with area-adjusted bone mineral content. However, most significant associations attenuated after additional controlling for height and lean mass. CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal concentrations of some PFAS may be associated with reduced bone mass and size in adolescent girls, although it is not clear whether these associations are driven by body size. |
Integrated Serologic Surveillance of Population Immunity and Disease Transmission.
Arnold BF , Scobie HM , Priest JW , Lammie PJ . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (7) 1188-1194 Antibodies are unique among biomarkers in their ability to identify persons with protective immunity to vaccine-preventable diseases and to measure past exposure to diverse pathogens. Most infectious disease surveillance maintains a single-disease focus, but broader testing of existing serologic surveys with multiplex antibody assays would create new opportunities for integrated surveillance. In this perspective, we highlight multiple areas for potential synergy where integrated surveillance could add more value to public health efforts than the current trend of independent disease monitoring through vertical programs. We describe innovations in laboratory and data science that should accelerate integration and identify remaining challenges with respect to specimen collection, testing, and analysis. Throughout, we illustrate how information generated through integrated surveillance platforms can create new opportunities to more quickly and precisely identify global health program gaps that range from undervaccination to emerging pathogens to multilayered health disparities that span diverse communicable diseases. |
Marketing self-management education: Lessons on messaging and framing
Brady TJ , Ledskya R , Lafontant B , Baker TN . Am J Health Behav 2018 42 (5) 3-20 Objectives: Self-management education (SME) refers to educational interventions that help individuals with chronic diseases maintain or improve their quality of life. To help increase SME participation, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted audience research to assess feasibility of a campaign to market SME as a chronic disease management strategy and increase future receptivity to specific SME programs. Methods: Twenty focus groups were conducted in 3 rounds across 8 cities with men and women ages 45-75 with a variety of, or multiple, chronic conditions. Data were analyzed to identify cross-cutting themes and assess differences by sex, race/ethnicity, and location. Results: Findings revealed that although people with chronic disease are not aware of SME, it is feasible to deliver motivating messages about SME, and content need not be condition- or intervention-specific. Concepts viewed most positively by focus groups incorporated positive tone, empowering language, specific references to health, relatable images, and a website for more information. Conclusions: This qualitative work suggests SME marketing strategies will be most effective by providing background information, framing messages positively, using clear relatable language, and making it easy for potential participants to find a program. |
Candida auris: The recent emergence of a multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen
Forsberg K , Woodworth K , Walters M , Berkow EL , Jackson B , Chiller T , Vallabhaneni S . Med Mycol 2018 57 (1) 1-12 Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant yeast that causes serious invasive infections with high mortality. It was first discovered in 2009, and since then, individual cases or outbreaks have been reported from over 20 countries on five continents. Controlling C. auris is challenging for several reasons: (1) it is resistant to multiple classes of antifungals, (2) it can be misidentified as other yeasts by commonly available identification methods, and (3) because of its ability to colonize patients perhaps indefinitely and persist in the healthcare environment, it can spread between patients in healthcare settings. The transmissibility and high levels of antifungal resistance that are characteristic of C. auris set it apart from most other Candida species. A robust response that involves the laboratory, clinicians, and public health agencies is needed to identify and treat infections and prevent transmission. We review the global emergence, biology, challenges with laboratory identification, drug resistance, clinical manifestations, treatment, risk factors for infection, transmission, and control of C. auris. |
Infection prevention and control core practices: A roadmap for nursing practice
Carrico RM , Garrett H , Balcom D , Glowicz JB . Nursing 2018 48 (8) 22-28 FOR THE SIXTEENTH year in a row, nurses have been recognized as the most trusted profession in the United States.1 The value of ethics and integrity continue to be recognized and appreciated by those we serve—our patients and their families. It's our responsibility to provide and perform care that adheres to best practice evidence consistently and reliably. One area where care must consistently align with best practice is infection prevention and control. This article discusses guidelines and best practices promoted by the Nursing Infection Control Education Network and the CDC Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee to improve antibiotic stewardship, reduce microbial transmission, and prevent the spread of infection in any healthcare setting. |
Effect of antibiotic-mediated microbiome modulation on rotavirus vaccine immunogenicity: A human, randomized-control proof-of-concept trial
Harris VC , Haak BW , Handley SA , Jiang B , Velasquez DE , Hykes BLJr , Droit L , Berbers GAM , Kemper EM , van Leeuwen EMM , Boele van Hensbroek M , Wiersinga WJ . Cell Host Microbe 2018 24 (2) 197-207.e4 Rotavirus vaccines (RVV) protect against childhood gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus (RV) but have decreased effectiveness in low- and middle-income settings. This proof-of-concept, randomized-controlled, open-label trial tested if microbiome modulation can improve RVV immunogenicity. Healthy adults were randomized and administered broad-spectrum (oral vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, metronidazole), narrow-spectrum (vancomycin), or no antibiotics and then vaccinated with RVV, 21 per group per protocol. Baseline anti-RV IgA was high in all subjects. Although antibiotics did not alter absolute anti-RV IgA titers, RVV immunogenicity was boosted at 7 days in the narrow-spectrum group. Further, antibiotics increased fecal shedding of RV while also rapidly altering gut bacterial beta diversity. Beta diversity associated with RVV immunogenicity boosting at day 7 and specific bacterial taxa that distinguish RVV boosters and RV shedders were identified. Despite the negative primary endpoint, this study demonstrates that microbiota modification alters the immune response to RVV and supports further exploration of microbiome manipulation to improve RVV immunogenicity. |
Influenza vaccine effectiveness in preventing influenza-associated intensive care admissions and attenuating severe disease among adults in New Zealand 2012-2015
Thompson MG , Pierse N , Sue Huang Q , Prasad N , Duque J , Claire Newbern E , Baker MG , Turner N , McArthur C . Vaccine 2018 36 (39) 5916-5925 BACKGROUND: Little is known about inactivated influenza vaccine effectiveness (IVE) in preventing very severe disease, including influenza-associated intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. METHODS: The Southern Hemisphere Influenza and Vaccine Effectiveness Research and Surveillance (SHIVERS) project enrolled adults (aged>/=18years) with acute respiratory illness (ARI) in general ward (GW) hospital settings (n=3034) and ICUs (n=101) during 2012-2015. IVE was assessed using a test-negative design comparing the odds of influenza vaccination among influenza positives vs. negatives (confirmed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction). All models were adjusted for season, weeks from season peak, and a vaccination propensity score. RESULTS: Influenza virus infection was confirmed in 28% of GW hospital and 41% of ICU patients; influenza vaccination was documented for 56% and 41%, respectively. Across seasons, IVE was 37% (95% confidence intervals [CI]=23-48%) among GW patients and 82% (95% CI=45-94%) among ICU patients. IVE point estimates were>70% against ICU influenza and consistently higher than IVE against GW influenza when stratified by season, by virus (sub)types, and for adults with or without chronic medical conditions and for both adults aged <65 and >/=65years old. Among hospitalized influenza positives, influenza vaccination was associated with a 59% reduction in the odds of ICU admission (aOR=0.41, 95% CI=0.18-0.96) and with shorter ICU lengths of stay (LOS), but not with radiograph-confirmed pneumonia or GW hospital LOS. CONCLUSION: Inactivated influenza vaccines prevented influenza-associated ICU admissions, may have higher effectiveness in ICU than GW hospital settings, and appeared to reduce the risk of severe disease among those who are infected despite vaccination. |
Progress in vaccine-preventable and respiratory infectious diseases - first 10 Years of the CDC National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, 2006-2015
Schuchat A , Anderson LJ , Rodewald LE , Cox NJ , Hajjeh R , Pallansch MA , Messonnier NE , Jernigan DB , Wharton M . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (7) 1178-1187 The need for closer linkages between scientific and programmatic areas focused on addressing vaccine-preventable and acute respiratory infections led to establishment of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. During its first 10 years (2006-2015), NCIRD worked with partners to improve preparedness and response to pandemic influenza and other emergent respiratory infections, provide an evidence base for addition of 7 newly recommended vaccines, and modernize vaccine distribution. Clinical tools were developed for improved conversations with parents, which helped sustain childhood immunization as a social norm. Coverage increased for vaccines to protect adolescents against pertussis, meningococcal meningitis, and human papillomavirus-associated cancers. NCIRD programs supported outbreak response for new respiratory pathogens and oversaw response of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to the 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic. Other national public health institutes might also find closer linkages between epidemiology, laboratory, and immunization programs useful. |
Assessment of select electronic health information systems that support immunization data capture - Kenya, 2017
Namageyo-Funa A , Aketch M , Tabu C , MacNeil A , Bloland P . BMC Health Serv Res 2018 18 (1) 621 BACKGROUND: Although electronic health information systems (EHIS) with immunization components exist in Kenya, questions and concerns remain about their use and alignment with the Kenya Ministry of Health's (MOH) National Vaccine and Immunization Program (NVIP). This article reports on the findings of an assessment of select EHIS with immunization components in Kenya, specifically related to system design, development, and implementation. METHODS: We conducted a rapid assessment of select EHIS with immunization components in Kenya from January to May 2017 to understand the design, development, implementation of the EHIS including the lessons learned from their use. We also assessed how the data elements in the EHIS compared to the data elements in the Maternal and Child Health Booklet used in the existing paper based system in Kenya. RESULTS: The EHIS reviewed varied in purpose, content, and population covered. Only one system was built to focus specifically on immunization data. Substantial differences in system functionality and immunization-related data elements included in the EHIS were identified. None of the EHIS had all the data elements necessary to fully replace or operate independently from the standardized paper-based system for recording immunization data in Kenya. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the findings of this assessment highlighted substantial variation in the EHIS with immunization components. The findings provide insights and lessons learned for the Kenya MOH NVIP, immunization partners, vendors of EHIS, and users of EHIS to consider as Kenya transitions from paper-based to electronic immunization information systems. |
Electronic medical alerts increase screening for chronic hepatitis B: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial
Chak E , Taefi A , Li CS , Chen MS , Harris AM , MacDonald S , Bowlus CL . Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2018 27 (11) 1352-1357 BACKGROUND: Implementation of screening recommendations for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) among foreign-born persons at risk has been sub-optimal. The use of alerts and reminders in the electronic health record (EHR) has led to increased screening for other common conditions. The aim of our study was to measure the effectiveness of an EHR alert on the implementation of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) screening of foreign-born Asian and Pacific Islander (API) patients. METHODS: We used a novel technique to identify API patients by self-identified ethnicity, surname, country of origin, and language preference, and who had no record of CHB screening with HBsAg within the EHR. Patients with Medicare and/or Medicaid insurance were excluded due to lack of coverage for routine HBsAg screening at the time of this study. At-risk API patients were randomized to alert activation in their EHR or not (control). RESULTS: A total of 2,987 patients met inclusion criteria and were randomized to the alert (n = 1,484) or control group (n = 1,503). In the alert group, 119 patients were tested for HBsAg, compared to 48 in the control group (odds ratio [OR] = 2.64 [95% CI = 1.88-3.73]; P< .001). In the alert group, 4 of 119 (3.4%) tested HBsAg-positive compared to 5 of 48 (10.4%) in the control group (P = .12). CONCLUSIONS: An EHR alert significantly increased HBsAg testing among foreign-born APIs. IMPACT: Utilization of EHR alerts has the potential to improve implementation of hepatitis B screening guidelines. |
Child abuse and neglect: Breaking the intergenerational link
Merrick MT , Guinn AS . Am J Public Health 2018 108 (9) 1117-1118 From a public health perspective, preventing early adversity before it begins by promoting safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments is strategic for achieving multiple health, well-being, and productivity goals.1 Yet, much of the research related to childhood adversity’s impact on health and well-being across generations focuses almost exclusively on relational risk and protective factors. Although children learn and grow in the context of relationships with parents, friends, family, and community, the conditions within which these relationships exist can confer additional risk or protection.2 |
Childhood maltreatment predicts poor economic and educational outcomes in the transition to adulthood
Jaffee SR , Ambler A , Merrick M , Goldman-Mellor S , Odgers CL , Fisher HL , Danese A , Arseneault L . Am J Public Health 2018 108 (9) 1142-1147 OBJECTIVES: To test whether childhood maltreatment was a predictor of (1) having low educational qualifications and (2) not being in education, employment, or training among young adults in the United Kingdom today. METHODS: Participants were from the Environmental Risk (E-Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study, a nationally representative UK cohort of 2232 twins born in 1994 to 1995. Mothers reported on child maltreatment when participants were aged 5, 7, 10, and 12 years. Participants were interviewed about their vocational status at age 18 years. RESULTS: The unadjusted odds of having low educational qualifications or of not being in education, employment, or training at age 18 years were more than 2 times greater for young people with a childhood history of maltreatment versus those without. These associations were reduced after adjustments for individual and family characteristics. Youths who reported having a supportive adult in their lives had better education outcomes than did youths who had less support. CONCLUSIONS: Closer collaboration between the child welfare and education systems is warranted to improve vocational outcomes for maltreated youths. |
The harmful effect of child maltreatment on economic outcomes in adulthood
Henry KL , Fulco CJ , Merrick MT . Am J Public Health 2018 108 (9) 1134-1141 OBJECTIVES: To examine the effect of maltreatment during childhood on subsequent financial strain during adulthood and the extent to which this effect is mediated by adolescent depressive symptoms, adolescent substance abuse, attenuated educational achievement, and timing of first birth. METHODS: We specified a multilevel path model to examine the developmental cascade of child maltreatment. We used data from a longitudinal panel study of 496 parents participating in the Rochester Intergenerational Study, in Rochester, New York. Data were collected between 1988 and 2016. RESULTS: Child maltreatment had both a direct and indirect (via the mediators) effect on greater financial strain during adulthood. CONCLUSIONS: Maltreatment has the capacity to disrupt healthy development during adolescence and early adulthood and puts the affected individual at risk for economic difficulties later in life. Maltreatment is a key social determinant for health and prosperity, and initiatives to prevent maltreatment and provide mental health and social services to victims are critical. |
Intergenerational continuity in adverse childhood experiences and rural community environments
Schofield TJ , Donnellan MB , Merrick MT , Ports KA , Klevens J , Leeb R . Am J Public Health 2018 108 (9) 1148-1152 OBJECTIVES: To understand the role of the community environment on intergenerational continuity in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among a rural White sample. METHODS: Parents in 12 counties in rural Iowa reported retrospectively on their own ACEs in 1989. We measured their child's ACEs retrospectively and prospectively across adolescence (n = 451 families). We measured structural and social process-related measures of community environment (i.e., community socioeconomic status, parents' perception of community services, perceived community social cohesion, and neighborhood alcohol vendor density) on multiple occasions during the child's adolescence. RESULTS: The 4 measures of community environment were all correlated with the child's ACEs, but only alcohol vendor density predicted ACEs after inclusion of covariates. Intergenerational continuity in ACEs was moderated by both social cohesion (b = -0.11; SE = 0.04) and alcohol vendor density (b = -0.11; SE = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Efforts to increase community social cohesion and manage alcohol vendor density may assist families in breaking the cycle of maltreatment across generations. |
Progestin-based contraception regimens modulate expression of putative HIV risk factors in the vaginal epithelium of pig-tailed Macaques.
Bosinger SE , Tharp GK , Patel NB , Zhao C , Payne TL , Dietz Ostergaard S , Butler K , Ellis S , Johnson RL , Kersh EN , McNicholl JM , Vishwanathan SA . Am J Reprod Immunol 2018 80 (4) e13029 PROBLEM: In women, the use of progestin-based contraception may increase the risk of vaginal HIV acquisition. We previously showed in macaques that there is a significantly higher simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) acquisition rate in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which presents a naturally high-progesterone state, and this may be attributable to altered expression of innate immune factors. We hypothesized that progestin-based contraception, especially depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), would, in a similar way, affect mucosal immune factors that influence HIV acquisition risk. METHOD OF STUDY: We used a pig-tailed macaque model to evaluate the effects of two progestin-based contraceptives, DMPA, and levonorgestrel (LNG)/ethinyl estradiol (EE)-based combined oral contraceptives (COCs), on innate mucosal factors. We compared the vaginal epithelial thickness data from previous studies and used cytokine profiling and microarray analysis to evaluate contraception-induced molecular changes in the vagina. RESULTS: The administration of DMPA caused a reduction in the thickness of the vaginal epithelium relative to that of the follicular or luteal phase. DMPA also induced a significant increase in vaginal levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Both DMPA- and LNG-based contraception induced a signature of gene expression similar to that of the luteal phase, only more exacerbated, including widespread downregulation of antiviral genes. CONCLUSION: The use of progestin-based contraception might engender a milieu that poses an increased risk of HIV acquisition as compared to both the luteal and follicular phases of the menstrual cycle. |
Validation of novel Mycobacterium tuberculosis isoniazid resistance mutations not detectable by common molecular tests.
Kandler JL , Mercante AD , Dalton TL , Ezewudo MN , Cowan LS , Burns SP , Metchock B , Cegielski P , Posey JE . Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018 62 (10) Resistance to the first-line anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug, isoniazid (INH), is widespread, and the mechanism of resistance is unknown in approximately 15% of INH-resistant (INH-R) strains. To improve molecular detection of INH-R TB, we used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to analyze 52 phenotypically INH-R Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) clinical isolates that lacked the common katG S315T or inhA promoter mutations. Approximately 94% (49/52) of strains had mutations at known INH-associated loci that were likely to confer INH resistance. All such mutations would be detectable by sequencing more DNA adjacent to existing target regions. Use of WGS minimized the chances of missing infrequent INH resistance mutations outside commonly targeted hotspots. We used recombineering to generate 12 observed clinical katG mutations in the pansusceptible H37Rv reference strain and determined their impact on INH resistance. Our functional genetic experiments have confirmed the role of seven suspected INH resistance mutations and discovered five novel INH resistance mutations. All recombineered katG mutations conferred resistance to INH at a minimum inhibitory concentration of >/=0.25 mug/mL and should be added to the list of INH resistance determinants targeted by molecular diagnostic assays. We conclude that WGS is a useful tool for detecting uncommon INH resistance mutations that would otherwise be missed by current targeted molecular testing methods, and suggest that its use (or use of expanded conventional or NGS-based targeted sequencing) may provide earlier diagnosis of INH-R TB. |
HCV adaptation to HIV coinfection.
Lara J , Teka MA , Sims S , Xia GL , Ramachandran S , Khudyakov Y . Infect Genet Evol 2018 65 216-225 Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is rising as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients. Both viruses interact in co-infected hosts, which may affect their intra-host evolution, potentially leading to differing genetic composition of viral populations in co-infected (CIP) and mono-infected (MIP) patients. Here, we investigate genetic differences between intra-host variants of the HCV hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) sampled from CIP and MIP. Nucleotide (nt) sequences of intra-host HCV HVR1 variants (N=28,622) obtained from CIP (N=112) and MIP (n=176) were represented using 148 physical-chemical (PhyChem) indexes of DNA nt dimers. Significant (p<.0001) differences in the means and frequency distributions of 7 PhyChem properties were found between HVR1 variants from both groups. Linear projection analysis of 29 PhyChem features extracted from such PhyChem properties showed that the CIP and MIP HVR1 variants have a distinct distribution in the modeled 2D-space, with only ~1.3% of PhyChem profiles (N=6782), shared by all HVR1 variants, being found in both groups. Probabilistic neural network (PNN) and naive Bayesian (NB) classifiers trained on the PhyChem features accurately classified HVR1 variants by the group in cross-validation experiments (AUROC>/=0.96). Similarly, both models showed a high accuracy (AUROC>/=0.95) when evaluated on a test dataset of HVR1 sequences obtained from 10 patients, data from whom were not used for model building. Both models performed at the expected lower accuracy on randomly labeled datasets in cross-validation experiments (AUROC=0.50). The random-label trained PNN showed a similar drop in accuracy on the test dataset (AUROC=0.48), indicating that the detected associations were unlikely due to random correlations. Marked differences in genetic composition of HCV HVR1 variants sampled from CIP and MIP suggest differing intra-host HCV evolution in the presence of HIV infection. PhyChem features identified here may be used for detection of HIV infection from intra-host HCV variants alone in co-infected patients, thus facilitating monitoring for HIV introduction to high-risk populations with high HCV prevalence. |
Bayesian additive adaptive basis tensor product models for modeling high dimensional surfaces: an application to high-throughput toxicity testing.
Wheeler MW . Biometrics 2018 75 (1) 193-201 Many modern datasets are sampled with error from complex high-dimensional surfaces. Methods such as tensor product splines or Gaussian processes are effective and well suited for characterizing a surface in two or three dimensions, but they may suffer from difficulties when representing higher dimensional surfaces. Motivated by high throughput toxicity testing where observed dose-response curves are cross sections of a surface defined by a chemical's structural properties, a model is developed to characterize this surface to predict untested chemicals' dose-responses. This manuscript proposes a novel approach that models the multidimensional surface as a sum of learned basis functions formed as the tensor product of lower dimensional functions, which are themselves representable by a basis expansion learned from the data. The model is described and a Gibbs sampling algorithm is proposed. The approach is investigated in a simulation study and through data taken from the US EPA's ToxCast high throughput toxicity testing platform. |
Activity of novel antifungal compound APX001A against a large collection of Candida auris
Berkow EL , Lockhart SR . J Antimicrob Chemother 2018 73 (11) 3060-3062 Background: APX001A is an antifungal agent that targets a novel pathway-glycosylphosphatidylinositol glycolipid biosynthesis. It has been shown to be effective against a variety of fungal species, including Candida spp., Aspergillus spp. and other filamentous fungi. Objectives: To determine the activity of APX001A against the emerging fungal pathogen Candida auris. Methods: APX001A was tested by broth microdilution against 100 geographically distinct isolates of C. auris. Results: APX001A showed activity against all isolates, including some that were resistant to one or more antifungals, with MIC50 and MIC90 of 0.002 and 0.008 mg/L, respectively. Conclusions: These findings suggest that APX001A shows encouraging activity against the emerging fungal pathogen C. auris. |
Circulating miRs-183-5p, -206-3p and -381-3p may serve as novel biomarkers for 4,4'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate exposure
Lin CC , Law BF , Siegel PD , Hettick JM . Biomarkers 2018 24 (1) 1-45 BACKGROUND: Occupational exposure to the most widely used diisocyanate, 4,4'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), is a cause of occupational asthma (OA). Early recognition of MDI exposure and sensitization is essential for the prevention of MDI-OA. OBJECTIVE: Identify circulating microRNAs (miRs) as novel biomarkers for early detection of MDI exposure and prevention of MDI-OA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Female BALB/c mice were exposed to one of three exposure regimens: dermal exposure to 1% MDI in acetone; nose-only exposure to 4580 +/- 1497 mug/m(3) MDI-aerosol for 60 minutes; or MDI dermal exposure/sensitization followed by MDI-aerosol inhalation challenge. Blood was collected and miRCURY miRs qPCR Pro fi ling Service was used to profile circulating miRs from dermally exposed mice. Candidate miRs were identified and verified from mice exposed to three MDI-exposure regimens by TaqMan(R) miR assays. RESULTS: Up/down-regulation patterns of circulating mmu-miRs-183-5p, -206-3p and -381-3p were identified and verified. Circulating mmu-miR-183-5p was upregulated whereas mmu-miRs-206-3p and -381-3p were downregulated in mice exposed via all three MDI exposure regimens. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Upregulation of circulating miR-183-5p along with downregulation of circulating miRs-206-3p and -381-3p may serve as putative biomarkers of MDI exposure and may be considered as potential candidates for validation in exposed human worker populations. |
Comparability of lipoprotein particle number concentrations across ES-DMA, NMR, LC-MS/MS, immunonephelometry, and VAP: In Search of a candidate reference measurement procedure for apoB and non-HDL-P standardization
Delatour V , Clouet-Foraison N , Gaie-Levrel F , Marcovina SM , Hoofnagle AN , Kuklenyik Z , Caulfield MP , Otvos JD , Krauss RM , Kulkarni KR , Contois JH , Remaley AT , Vesper HW , Cobbaert CM , Gillery P . Clin Chem 2018 64 (10) 1485-1495 BACKGROUND: Despite the usefulness of standard lipid parameters for cardiovascular disease risk assessment, undiagnosed residual risk remains high. Advanced lipoprotein testing (ALT) was developed to provide physicians with more predictive diagnostic tools. ALT methods separate and/or measure lipoproteins according to different parameters such as size, density, charge, or content, and equivalence of results across methods has not been demonstrated. METHODS: Through a split-sample study, 25 clinical specimens (CSs) were assayed in 10 laboratories before and after freezing using the major ALT methods for non-HDL particles (non-HDL-P) or apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB-100) measurements with the intent to assess their comparability in the current state of the art. RESULTS: The overall relative standard deviation (CV) of non-HDL-P and apoB-100 concentrations measured by electrospray differential mobility analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance, immunonephelometry, LC-MS/MS, and vertical autoprofile in the 25 frozen CSs was 14.1%. Within-method comparability was heterogeneous, and CV among 4 different LC-MS/MS methods was 11.4% for apoB-100. No significant effect of freezing and thawing was observed. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that ALT methods do not yet provide equivalent results for the measurement of non-HDL-P and apoB-100. The better agreement between methods harmonized to the WHO/IFCC reference material suggests that standardizing ALT methods by use of a common commutable calibrator will improve cross-platform comparability. This study provides further evidence that LC-MS/MS is the most suitable candidate reference measurement procedure to standardize apoB-100 measurement, as it would provide results with SI traceability. The absence of freezing and thawing effect suggests that frozen serum pools could be used as secondary reference materials. |
Human norovirus replication in human intestinal enteroids as model to evaluate virus inactivation
Costantini V , Morantz EK , Browne H , Ettayebi K , Zeng XL , Atmar RL , Estes MK , Vinje J . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1453-1464 Human noroviruses are a leading cause of epidemic and endemic acute gastroenteritis worldwide and a leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. Recently, human intestinal enteroids (HIEs) derived from human small intestinal tissue have been shown to support human norovirus replication. We implemented the HIE system in our laboratory and tested the effect of chlorine and alcohols on human norovirus infectivity. Successful replication was observed for 6 norovirus GII genotypes and was dependent on viral load and genotype of the inoculum. GII.4 viruses had higher replication levels than other genotypes. Regardless of concentration or exposure time, alcohols slightly reduced, but did not completely inactivate, human norovirus. In contrast, complete inactivation of the 3 GII.4 viruses occurred at concentrations as low as 50 ppm of chlorine. Taken together, our data confirm the successful replication of human noroviruses in HIEs and their utility as tools to study norovirus inactivation strategies. |
Interlaboratory agreement of coccidioidomycosis enzyme immunoassay from two different manufacturers
Khan S , Saubolle MA , Oubsuntia T , Heidari A , Barbian K , Goodin K , Eguchi M , McCotter OZ , Komatsu K , Park BJ , Geiger MC , Mohamed A , Chiller T , Sunenshine RH . Med Mycol 2018 57 (4) 441-446 Coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection endemic to the Southwestern United States, is challenging to diagnose. The coccidioidomycosis enzyme immunoassay (EIA) test is the least expensive and simplest to perform to detect coccidioidomycosis antibodies in the serum. Concerns regarding falsely positive immunoglobulin (Ig) M EIA test results have led to questions about the agreement of commercially available EIA test kits among laboratories. We sought to evaluate the laboratory agreement of the EIA test at three laboratories using both IMMY and Meridian EIA test kits. Sensitivity and specificity of EIA IgM and IgG were calculated as secondary outcomes. The percent agreement of the EIA IgM and IgG test results among all three laboratories was 90% and 89% for IMMY test kits, respectively, and 67% and 80.5% for Meridian test kits, respectively. Agreement between IgM and IgG combined test results was 85.5% and 70.5%, for IMMY and Meridian, respectively. Combined IgM and IgG assays demonstrated a sensitivity of 68% (62.7%-76%) and a specificity of 99.3% (98%-100%) [IMMY] and a sensitivity of 72.4% (57.3%-87.3%) and a specificity of 91.3% (74%-100%) [Meridian]. In summary, results from the IMMY EIA test kit agreed more often across laboratories than Meridian EIA results, especially for the IgM assay. Isolated positive IgM EIA results using the Meridian test kit should be interpreted with caution and consideration of clinical information and test methodology. Further study of the sensitivity and specificity of coccidioidomycosis EIA test kits is warranted. |
Assessment of environmental and surgical mask contamination at a student health center - 2012-2013 influenza season
Ahrenholz SH , Brueck SE , Rule AM , Noti JD , Noorbakhs B , Blachere FM , de Perio MA , Lindsley WG , Shaffer RE , Fisher EM . J Occup Environ Hyg 2018 15 (9) 1-30 Increased understanding of influenza transmission is critical for pandemic planning and selecting appropriate controls for healthcare personnel safety and health. The goals of this pilot study were to assess environmental contamination in different areas and at two time periods in the influenza season and to determine the feasibility of using surgical mask contamination to evaluate potential exposure to influenza virus. Bioaerosol samples were collected over 12 days (two 6-day sessions) at 12 locations within a student health center using portable two-stage bioaerosol samplers operating 8 hours each day. Surface samples were collected each morning and afternoon from common high-contact non-porous hard surfaces from rooms and locations where bioaerosol samplers were located. Surgical masks worn by participants while in contact with patients with influenza-like illness were collected. A questionnaire administered to each of the 12 participants at the end of each workday and another at the end of each workweek assessed influenza-like illness symptoms, estimated the number of influenza-like illness patient contacts, hand hygiene, and surgical mask usage. All samples were analyzed using qPCR. Over the 12 days of the study, three of the 127 (2.4%) bioaerosol samples, two of 483 (0.41%) surface samples, and zero of 54 surgical masks were positive for influenza virus. For the duration of contact that occurred with an influenza patient on any of the 12 days, nurse practitioners and physicians reported contacts with influenza-like illness patients > 60 minutes, medical assistants reported 15-44 minutes, and administrative staff reported < 30 minutes. Given the limited number of bioaerosol and surface samples positive for influenza virus in the bioaerosol and surface samples, the absence of influenza virus on the surgical masks provides inconclusive evidence for the potential to use surgical masks to assess exposure to influenza viruses. Further studies are needed to determine feasibility of this approach in assessing healthcare personnel exposures. Information learned in this study can inform future field studies on influenza transmission. |
Differences in safety climate perception by health care worker, work schedule, and workplace characteristics
Silver SR , Boiano JM . Am J Med Qual 2018 34 (2) 165-175 Safety climate has been associated with patient and health care worker safety and outcomes. However, few studies have examined how perceptions of workplace safety differ by worker, work schedule, and workplace characteristics. Data from 10 168 participants in the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's Health and Safety Practices Survey of Healthcare Workers were analyzed. Multivariable regression analyses examined associations among worker and workplace characteristics and items measuring 5 areas of workplace safety perception. Safety climate perception scores were higher (more positive) for dentists and for health care workers who were salaried, were self-employed, worked day shifts and shifts 11 hours, and spent <76% of their time in patient care. A wide range of health care worker, work schedule, and workplace characteristics should be considered in analyses designed to evaluate safety climate and identify potential interventions to improve downstream safety outcomes. |
Predicting sagittal plane lifting postures from image bounding box dimensions
Greene RL , Hu YH , Difranco N , Wang X , Lu ML , Bao S , Lin JH , Radwin RG . Hum Factors 2018 61 (1) 18720818791367 OBJECTIVE: A method for automatically classifying lifting postures from simple features in video recordings was developed and tested. We explored if an "elastic" rectangular bounding box, drawn tightly around the subject, can be used for classifying standing, stooping, and squatting at the lift origin and destination. BACKGROUND: Current marker-less video tracking methods depend on a priori skeletal human models, which are prone to error from poor illumination, obstructions, and difficulty placing cameras in the field. Robust computer vision algorithms based on spatiotemporal features were previously applied for evaluating repetitive motion tasks, exertion frequency, and duty cycle. METHODS: Mannequin poses were systematically generated using the Michigan 3DSSPP software for a wide range of hand locations and lifting postures. The stature-normalized height and width of a bounding box were measured in the sagittal plane and when rotated horizontally by 30 degrees . After randomly ordering the data, a classification and regression tree algorithm was trained to classify the lifting postures. RESULTS: The resulting tree had four levels and four splits, misclassifying 0.36% training-set cases. The algorithm was tested using 30 video clips of industrial lifting tasks, misclassifying 3.33% test-set cases. The sensitivity and specificity, respectively, were 100.0% and 100.0% for squatting, 90.0% and 100.0% for stooping, and 100.0% and 95.0% for standing. CONCLUSIONS: The tree classification algorithm is capable of classifying lifting postures based only on dimensions of bounding boxes. APPLICATIONS: It is anticipated that this practical algorithm can be implemented on handheld devices such as a smartphone, making it readily accessible to practitioners. |
Abnormal helminth egg development, strange morphology, and the identification of intestinal helminth infections
Sapp SGH , Yabsley MJ , Bradbury RS . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1407-1411 Occasionally, abnormal forms of parasitic helminth eggs are detected during routine diagnostics. This finding can prove problematic in diagnosis because morphologic analysis based on tightly defined measurements is the primary method used to identify the infecting species and molecular confirmation of species is not always feasible. We describe instances of malformed nematode eggs (primarily from members of the superfamily Ascaridoidea) from human clinical practice and experimental trials on animals. On the basis of our observations and historical literature, we propose that unusual development and morphology of nematode and trematode eggs are associated with early infection. Further observational studies and experimentation are needed to identify additional factors that might cause abnormalities in egg morphology and production. Abnormal egg morphology can be observed early in the course of infection and can confound accurate diagnosis of intestinal helminthiases. |
Ancylostoma ceylanicum hookworm in Myanmar refugees, Thailand, 2012-2015
O'Connell EM , Mitchell T , Papaiakovou M , Pilotte N , Lee D , Weinberg M , Sakulrak P , Tongsukh D , Oduro-Boateng G , Harrison S , Williams SA , Stauffer WM , Nutman TB . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1472-81 During 2012-2015, US-bound refugees living in Myanmar-Thailand border camps (n = 1,839) were surveyed for hookworm infection and treatment response by using quantitative PCR. Samples were collected at 3 time points: after each of 2 treatments with albendazole and after resettlement in the United States. Baseline prevalence of Necator americanus hookworm was 25.4%, Ancylostoma duodenale 0%, and Ancylostoma ceylanicum (a zoonosis) 5.4%. Compared with N. americanus prevalence, A. ceylanicum hookworm prevalence peaked in younger age groups, and blood eosinophil concentrations during A. ceylanicum infection were higher than those for N. americanus infection. Female sex was associated with a lower risk for either hookworm infection. Cure rates after 1 dose of albendazole were greater for A. ceylanicum (93.3%) than N. americanus (65.9%) hookworm (p<0.001). Lower N. americanus hookworm cure rates were unrelated to beta-tubulin single-nucleotide polymorphisms at codons 200 or 167. A. ceylanicum hookworm infection might be more common in humans than previously recognized. |
Assessment of age-related differences in smoking status and health-related quality of life (HRQoL): Findings from the 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Dube SR , Liu J , Fan AZ , Meltzer MI , Thompson WW . J Community Psychol 2018 47 (1) 93-103 Despite significant declines in the use of cigarettes, a significant proportion of adults smoke. This study explores the association between smoking and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) by age. The 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey was administered to adults in 50 states and District of Columbia (n = 437,195). Physically unhealthy days (PUDs) and mentally unhealthy days (MUDs)) were regressed on age strata (18-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64, ≥ 65 years) and smoking status (never, former, someday, and everyday) using negative binomial regression models with adjustment for sociodemographic covariates. For each age group, everyday smoking highly predicted PUDs and MUDs. Predicted PUDs increased with age; predicted MUDs decreased with age. Among adults aged 45-54 and 55-64 years, 3-day difference in PUDs was observed between never smokers and everyday smokers. Among young adults (18-24 years), a 4.3-day difference in MUDs was observed between everyday and never smokers. The discrepancies were nonlinear with age. The observed relationship between smoking and HRQoL provides novel information about the need to consider age when designing community-based interventions. Additional research can provide needed depth to understanding the relationship between smoking and HRQoL in specific age groups. |
Naloxone administration frequency during emergency medical service events - United States, 2012-2016
Cash RE , Kinsman J , Crowe RP , Rivard MK , Faul M , Panchal AR . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018 67 (31) 850-853 As the opioid epidemic in the United States has continued since the early 2000s (1,2), most descriptions have focused on misuse and deaths. Increased cooperation with state and local partners has enabled more rapid and comprehensive surveillance of nonfatal opioid overdoses (3).* Naloxone administrations obtained from emergency medical services (EMS) patient care records have served as a useful proxy for overdose surveillance in individual communities and might be a previously unused data source to describe the opioid epidemic, including fatal and nonfatal events, on a national level (4-6). Using data from the National Emergency Medical Services Information System (NEMSIS),(dagger) the trend in rate of EMS naloxone administration events from 2012 to 2016 was compared with opioid overdose mortality rates from National Vital Statistics System multiple cause-of-death mortality files. During 2012-2016, the rate of EMS naloxone administration events increased 75.1%, from 573.6 to 1004.4 administrations per 100,000 EMS events, mirroring the 79.7% increase in opioid overdose mortality from 7.4 deaths per 100,000 persons to 13.3. A bimodal age distribution of patients receiving naloxone from EMS parallels a similar age distribution of deaths, with persons aged 25-34 years and 45-54 years most affected. However, an accurate estimate of the complete injury burden of the opioid epidemic requires assessing nonfatal overdoses in addition to deaths. Evaluating and monitoring nonfatal overdose events via the novel approach of using EMS data might assist in the development of timely interventions to address the evolving opioid crisis. |
National and state-specific unit sales and prices for electronic cigarettes, United States, 2012-2016
Wang TW , Coats EM , Gammon DG , Loomis BR , Kuiper NM , Rogers T , King BA . Prev Chronic Dis 2018 15 E99 INTRODUCTION: Few studies have explored patterns of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) sales and prices by product type over time. We used US retail scanner data to assess national and state-specific trends in e-cigarette unit sales and prices for 4 product types sold from 2012 through 2016. METHODS: Using retail scanner data from the 48 contiguous states and Washington, DC, for convenience stores; supermarkets; mass merchandisers; drug, dollar, and club stores; and military commissaries, we assessed data on monthly unit sales and inflation-adjusted prices by 4 products (rechargeables, disposables, prefilled cartridges, and e-liquids) sold during the 5-year study period. We evaluated national and state trends by using Joinpoint regression (P < .05). RESULTS: From 2012 through 2016, average national monthly unit sales significantly increased for all products, while average monthly prices of rechargeables, disposables, and prefilled cartridges significantly decreased. In 2016, prefilled cartridges had the highest average sales (766 units per 100,000 people) and the lowest average price ($14.36 per unit). By state, average monthly sales significantly increased for at least 1 of 4 e-cigarette products in all 48 states and Washington, DC. However, during the same period, average monthly prices significantly decreased in 39 states for rechargeables, in 31 states for disposables, in 20 states for prefilled cartridges, and in 8 states for e-liquids. CONCLUSION: Overall, US e-cigarette unit sales generally increased as product prices decreased. These findings demonstrate the rapidly evolving landscape of US e-cigarette retail marketplace. Ongoing surveillance of e-cigarette unit sales and price is critical for informing and evaluating evidence-based tobacco control strategies. |
Opioid use disorder documented at delivery hospitalization - United States, 1999-2014
Haight SC , Ko JY , Tong VT , Bohm MK , Callaghan WM . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018 67 (31) 845-849 Opioid use by pregnant women represents a significant public health concern given the association of opioid exposure and adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, including preterm labor, stillbirth, neonatal abstinence syndrome, and maternal mortality (1,2). State-level actions are critical to curbing the opioid epidemic through programs and policies to reduce use of prescription opioids and illegal opioids including heroin and illicitly manufactured fentanyl, both of which contribute to the epidemic (3). Hospital discharge data from the 1999-2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) were analyzed to describe U.S. national and state-specific trends in opioid use disorder documented at delivery hospitalization. Nationally, the prevalence of opioid use disorder more than quadrupled during 1999-2014 (from 1.5 per 1,000 delivery hospitalizations to 6.5; p<0.05). Increasing trends over time were observed in all 28 states with available data (p<0.05). In 2014, prevalence ranged from 0.7 in the District of Columbia (DC) to 48.6 in Vermont. Continued national, state, and provider efforts to prevent, monitor, and treat opioid use disorder among reproductive-aged and pregnant women are needed. Efforts might include improved access to data in Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs, increased substance abuse screening, use of medication-assisted therapy, and substance abuse treatment referrals. |
Coccidioidomycosis in nonhuman primates: Pathologic and clinical findings
Koistinen K , Mullaney L , Bell T , Zaki S , Nalca A , Frick O , Livingston V , Robinson CG , Estep JS , Batey KL , Dick EJJr , Owston MA . Vet Pathol 2018 55 (6) 300985818787306 Coccidioidomycosis in nonhuman primates has been sporadically reported in the literature. This study describes 22 cases of coccidioidomycosis in nonhuman primates within an endemic region, and 79 cases of coccidioidomycosis from the veterinary literature are also reviewed. The 22 cases included baboons ( n = 10), macaques ( n = 9), and chimpanzees ( n = 3). The majority died or were euthanized following episodes of dyspnea, lethargy, or neurologic and locomotion abnormalities. The lungs were most frequently involved followed by the vertebral column and abdominal organs. Microscopic examination revealed granulomatous inflammation accompanied by fungal spherules variably undergoing endosporulation. Baboons represented a large number of cases presented here and had a unique presentation with lesions in bone or thoracic organs, but none had both intrathoracic and extrathoracic lesions. Although noted in 3 cases in the literature, cutaneous infections were not observed among the 22 contemporaneous cases. Similarly, subclinical infections were only rarely observed (2 cases). This case series and review of the literature illustrates that coccidioidomycosis in nonhuman primates reflects human disease with a varied spectrum of presentations from localized lesions to disseminated disease. |
Unintended consequences associated with national-level restrictions on antimicrobial use in food-producing animals
McEwen SA , Angulo FJ , Collignon PJ , Conly JM . Lancet Planet Health 2018 2 (7) e279-e282 Among actions needed to address the antimicrobial resistance crisis are restrictions on the use of medically important antimicrobials in food-producing animals, which are often administered through national-level policy. One example is the complete restriction of antimicrobials for growth promotion, as recommended in WHO guidelines on use of medically important antimicrobials in food-producing animals.1 The obvious intended consequence is reduced antimicrobial resistance but there could also be unintended consequences, such as harm to animal health and added cost of production. Some people in the agriculture sector fear serious consequences which deters implementation of the needed restrictions. We reviewed the published evidence on unintended consequences associated with national-level restrictions. We used keyword searches in Ovid MEDLINE and AGRICOLA databases to identify interventional or observational studies that reported national-level restriction of antimicrobial use in food animals, and compared non-antimicrobial resistance outcomes between intervention and comparator groups in food animals or in humans. Eligible antimicrobial use restrictions included mandatory or voluntary prohibition of antimicrobial use, limitations on specific drug classes, and incentives for reduced antimicrobial use. The search identified 14 articles, all from Europe (table). |
Phylogeny of Yellow Fever Virus, Uganda, 2016.
Hughes HR , Kayiwa J , Mossel EC , Lutwama J , Staples JE , Lambert AJ . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1598-9 In April 2016, a yellow fever outbreak was detected in Uganda. Removal of contaminating ribosomal RNA in a clinical sample improved the sensitivity of next-generation sequencing. Molecular analyses determined the Uganda yellow fever outbreak was distinct from the concurrent yellow fever outbreak in Angola, improving our understanding of yellow fever epidemiology. |
Brucellosis in dogs and public health risk
Hensel ME , Negron M , Arenas-Gamboa AM . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1401-1406 Brucella canis infects dogs and humans. In dogs, it can cause reproductive failure; in humans, it can cause fever, chills, malaise, peripheral lymphadenomegaly, and splenomegaly. B. canis infection in dogs is underrecognized. After evaluating serologic data, transmission patterns, and regulations in the context of brucellosis in dogs as an underrecognized zoonosis, we concluded that brucellosis in dogs remains endemic to many parts of the world and will probably remain a threat to human health and animal welfare unless stronger intervention measures are implemented. A first step for limiting disease spread would be implementation of mandatory testing of dogs before interstate or international movement. |
Detection of dengue virus among children with suspected malaria, Accra, Ghana
Amoako N , Duodu S , Dennis FE , Bonney JHK , Asante KP , Ameh J , Mosi L , Hayashi T , Agbosu EE , Pratt D , Operario DJ , Fields B , Liu J , Houpt ER , Armah GE , Stoler J , Awandare GA . Emerg Infect Dis 2018 24 (8) 1544-1547 We report new molecular evidence of locally acquired dengue virus infections in Ghana. We detected dengue viral RNA among children with suspected malaria by using a multipathogen real-time PCR. Subsequent sequence analysis revealed a close relationship with dengue virus serotype 2, which was implicated in a 2016 outbreak in Burkina Faso. |
Estimating dengue under-reporting in Puerto Rico using a multiplier model
Shankar MB , Rodriguez-Acosta RL , Sharp TM , Tomashek KM , Margolis HS , Meltzer MI . PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018 12 (8) e0006650 Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral illness that causes a variety of health outcomes, from a mild acute febrile illness to potentially fatal severe dengue. Between 2005 and 2010, the annual number of suspected dengue cases reported to the Passive Dengue Surveillance System (PDSS) in Puerto Rico ranged from 2,346 in 2006 to 22,496 in 2010. Like other passive surveillance systems, PDSS is subject to under-reporting. To estimate the degree of under-reporting in Puerto Rico, we built separate inpatient and outpatient probability-based multiplier models, using data from two different surveillance systems-PDSS and the enhanced dengue surveillance system (EDSS). We adjusted reported cases to account for sensitivity of diagnostic tests, specimens with indeterminate results, and differences between PDSS and EDSS in numbers of reported dengue cases. In addition, for outpatients, we adjusted for the fact that less than 100% of medical providers submit diagnostic specimens from suspected cases. We estimated that a multiplication factor of between 5 (for 2010 data) to 9 (for 2006 data) must be used to correct for the under-reporting of the number of laboratory-positive dengue inpatients. Multiplication factors of between 21 (for 2010 data) to 115 (for 2008 data) must be used to correct for the under-reporting of laboratory-positive dengue outpatients. We also estimated that, after correcting for underreporting, the mean annual rate, for 2005-2010, of medically attended dengue in Puerto Rico to be between 2.1 (for dengue inpatients) to 7.8 (for dengue outpatients) per 1,000 population. These estimated rates compare to the reported rates of 0.4 (dengue outpatients) to 0.1 (dengue inpatients) per 1,000 population. The multipliers, while subject to limitations, will help public health officials correct for underreporting of dengue cases, and thus better evaluate the cost-and-benefits of possible interventions. |
Update: Interim guidance for preconception counseling and prevention of sexual transmission of Zika virus for men with possible Zika virus exposure - United States, August 2018
Polen KD , Gilboa SM , Hills S , Oduyebo T , Kohl KS , Brooks JT , Adamski A , Simeone RM , Walker AT , Kissin DM , Petersen LR , Honein MA , Meaney-Delman D . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018 67 (31) 868-871 Zika virus infection can occur as a result of mosquitoborne or sexual transmission of the virus. Infection during pregnancy is a cause of fetal brain abnormalities and other serious birth defects (1,2). CDC has updated the interim guidance for men with possible Zika virus exposure who 1) are planning to conceive with their partner, or 2) want to prevent sexual transmission of Zika virus at any time (3). CDC now recommends that men with possible Zika virus exposure who are planning to conceive with their partner wait for at least 3 months after symptom onset (if symptomatic) or their last possible Zika virus exposure (if asymptomatic) before engaging in unprotected sex. CDC now also recommends that for couples who are not trying to conceive, men can consider using condoms or abstaining from sex for at least 3 months after symptom onset (if symptomatic) or their last possible Zika virus exposure (if asymptomatic) to minimize their risk for sexual transmission of Zika virus. All other guidance for Zika virus remains unchanged. The definition of possible Zika virus exposure remains unchanged and includes travel to or residence in an area with risk for Zika virus transmission (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/world-map-areas-with-zika) or sex without a condom with a partner who traveled to or lives in an area with risk for Zika virus transmission. CDC will continue to update recommendations as new information becomes available. |
Vital signs: Zika-associated birth defects and neurodevelopmental abnormalities possibly associated with congenital Zika virus infection - U.S. Territories and freely associated states, 2018
Rice ME , Galang RR , Roth NM , Ellington SR , Moore CA , Valencia-Prado M , Ellis EM , Tufa AJ , Taulung LA , Alfred JM , Perez-Padilla J , Delgado-Lopez CA , Zaki SR , Reagan-Steiner S , Bhatnagar J , Nahabedian JF 3rd , Reynolds MR , Yeargin-Allsopp M , Viens LJ , Olson SM , Jones AM , Baez-Santiago MA , Oppong-Twene P , VanMaldeghem K , Simon EL , Moore JT , Polen KD , Hillman B , Ropeti R , Nieves-Ferrer L , Marcano-Huertas M , Masao CA , Anzures EJ , Hansen RL Jr , Perez-Gonzalez SI , Espinet-Crespo CP , Luciano-Roman M , Shapiro-Mendoza CK , Gilboa SM , Honein MA . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018 67 (31) 858-867 INTRODUCTION: Zika virus infection during pregnancy causes serious birth defects and might be associated with neurodevelopmental abnormalities in children. Early identification of and intervention for neurodevelopmental problems can improve cognitive, social, and behavioral functioning. METHODS: Pregnancies with laboratory evidence of confirmed or possible Zika virus infection and infants resulting from these pregnancies are included in the U.S. Zika Pregnancy and Infant Registry (USZPIR) and followed through active surveillance methods. This report includes data on children aged >/=1 year born in U.S. territories and freely associated states. Receipt of reported follow-up care was assessed, and data were reviewed to identify Zika-associated birth defects and neurodevelopmental abnormalities possibly associated with congenital Zika virus infection. RESULTS: Among 1,450 children of mothers with laboratory evidence of confirmed or possible Zika virus infection during pregnancy and with reported follow-up care, 76% had developmental screening or evaluation, 60% had postnatal neuroimaging, 48% had automated auditory brainstem response-based hearing screen or evaluation, and 36% had an ophthalmologic evaluation. Among evaluated children, 6% had at least one Zika-associated birth defect identified, 9% had at least one neurodevelopmental abnormality possibly associated with congenital Zika virus infection identified, and 1% had both. CONCLUSION: One in seven evaluated children had a Zika-associated birth defect, a neurodevelopmental abnormality possibly associated with congenital Zika virus infection, or both reported to the USZPIR. Given that most children did not have evidence of all recommended evaluations, additional anomalies might not have been identified. Careful monitoring and evaluation of children born to mothers with evidence of Zika virus infection during pregnancy is essential for ensuring early detection of possible disabilities and early referral to intervention services. |
Where backyard poultry raisers seek care for sick poultry: implications for avian influenza prevention in Bangladesh
Rimi NA , Sultana R , Ishtiak-Ahmed K , Haider N , Azziz-Baumgartner E , Nahar N , Luby SP . BMC Public Health 2018 18 (1) 969 BACKGROUND: In Bangladesh, backyard poultry raisers lack awareness of avian influenza and infrequently follow government recommendations for its prevention. Identifying where poultry raisers seek care for their ill poultry might help the government better plan how to disseminate avian influenza prevention and control recommendations. METHODS: In order to identify where backyard poultry raisers seek care for their ill poultry, we conducted in-depth and informal interviews: 70 with backyard poultry raisers and six with local poultry healthcare providers in two villages, and five with government veterinary professionals at the sub-district and union levels in two districts during June-August 2009. RESULTS: Most (86% [60/70]) raisers sought care for their backyard poultry locally, 14% used home remedies only and none sought care from government veterinary professionals. The local poultry care providers provided advice and medications (n = 6). Four local care providers had shops in the village market where raisers sought healthcare for their poultry and the remaining two visited rural households to provide poultry healthcare services. Five of the six local care providers did not have formal training in veterinary medicine. Local care providers either did not know about avian influenza or considered avian influenza to be a disease common among commercial but not backyard poultry. The government professionals had degrees in veterinary medicine and experience with avian influenza and its prevention. They had their offices at the sub-district or union level and lacked staffing to reach the backyard raisers at the village level. CONCLUSIONS: The local poultry care providers provided front line healthcare to backyard poultry in villages and were a potential source of information for the rural raisers. Integration of these local poultry care providers in the government's avian influenza control programs is a potentially useful approach to increase poultry raisers' and local poultry care providers' awareness about avian influenza. |
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