Last data update: May 06, 2024. (Total: 46732 publications since 2009)
Records 1-28 (of 28 Records) |
Query Trace: Matheson J[original query] |
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Exposure to emissions generated by 3-dimensional printing with polycarbonate: effects on peripheral vascular function, cardiac vascular morphology and expression of markers of oxidative stress in male rat cardiac tissue
Krajnak K , Farcas M , Richardson D , Hammer MA , Waugh S , McKinney W , Knepp A , Jackson M , Burns D , LeBouf R , Matheson J , Thomas T , Qian Y . J Toxicol Environ Health A 2024 1-19 Three-dimensional (3D) printing with polycarbonate (PC) plastic occurs in manufacturing settings, homes, and schools. Emissions generated during printing with PC stock and bisphenol-A (BPA), an endocrine disrupter in PC, may induce adverse health effects. Inhalation of 3D printer emissions, and changes in endocrine function may lead to cardiovascular dysfunction. The goal of this study was to determine whether there were any changes in markers of peripheral or cardiovascular dysfunction in animals exposed to PC-emissions. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to PC-emissions generated by 3D printing for 1, 4, 8, 15 or 30 d. Exposure induced a reduction in the expression of the antioxidant catalase (Cat) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNos). Endothelin and hypoxia-induced factor 1α transcripts increased after 30 d. Alterations in transcription were associated with elevations in immunostaining for estrogen and androgen receptors, nitrotyrosine, and vascular endothelial growth factor in cardiac arteries of PC-emission exposed animals. There was also a reduction eNOS immunostaining in cardiac arteries from rats exposed to PC-emissions. Histological analyses of heart sections revealed that exposure to PC-emissions resulted in vasoconstriction of cardiac arteries and thickening of the vascular smooth muscle wall, suggesting there was a prolonged vasoconstriction. These findings are consistent with studies showing that inhalation 3D-printer emissions affect cardiovascular function. Although BPA levels in animals were relatively low, exposure-induced changes in immunostaining for estrogen and androgen receptors in cardiac arteries suggest that changes in the action of steroid hormones may have contributed to the alterations in morphology and markers of cardiac function. |
Interlaboratory comparison of a multiplex immunoassay that measures human serum IgG antibodies against six-group B streptococcus polysaccharides
Le Doare K , Gaylord MA , Anderson AS , Andrews N , Baker CJ , Bolcen S , Felek A , Giardina PC , Grube CD , Hall T , Hallis B , Izu A , Madhi SA , Maniatis P , Matheson M , Mawas F , McKeen A , Rhodes J , Alston B , Patel P , Schrag S , Simon R , Tan CY , Taylor S , Kwatra G , Gorringe A . Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024 20 (1) 2330138 Measurement of IgG antibodies against group B streptococcus (GBS) capsular polysaccharide (CPS) by use of a standardized and internationally accepted multiplex immunoassay is important for the evaluation of candidate maternal GBS vaccines in order to compare results across studies. A standardized assay is also required if serocorrelates of protection against invasive GBS disease are to be established in infant sera for the six predominant GBS serotypes since it would permit the comparison of results across the six serotypes. We undertook an interlaboratory study across five laboratories that used standardized assay reagents and protocols with a panel of 44 human sera to measure IgG antibodies against GBS CPS serotypes Ia, Ib, II, III, IV, and V. The within-laboratory intermediate precision, which included factors like the lot of coated beads, laboratory analyst, and day, was generally below 20% relative standard deviation (RSD) for all six serotypes, across all five laboratories. The cross-laboratory reproducibility was < 25% RSD for all six serotypes, which demonstrated the consistency of results across the different laboratories. Additionally, anti-CPS IgG concentrations for the 44-member human serum panel were established. The results of this study showed assay robustness and that the resultant anti-CPS IgG concentrations were reproducible across laboratories for the six GBS CPS serotypes when the standardized assay was used. |
Pulmonary evaluation of whole-body inhalation exposure of polycarbonate (PC) filament 3D printer emissions in rats
Farcas MT , McKinney W , Mandler WK , Knepp AK , Battelli L , Friend SA , Stefaniak AB , Service S , Kashon M , LeBouf RF , Thomas TA , Matheson J , Qian Y . J Toxicol Environ Health A 2024 87 (8) 325-341 During fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing with polycarbonate (PC) filament, a release of ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) occurs. This study aimed to determine PC filament printing emission-induced toxicity in rats via whole-body inhalation exposure. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a single concentration (0.529 mg/m(3), 40 nm mean diameter) of the 3D PC filament emissions in a time-course via whole body inhalation for 1, 4, 8, 15, and 30 days (4 hr/day, 4 days/week), and sacrificed 24 hr after the last exposure. Following exposures, rats were assessed for pulmonary and systemic responses. To determine pulmonary injury, total protein and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, surfactant proteins A and D, total as well as lavage fluid differential cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were examined, as well as histopathological analysis of lung and nasal passages was performed. To determine systemic injury, hematological differentials, and blood biomarkers of muscle, metabolic, renal, and hepatic functions were also measured. Results showed that inhalation exposure induced no marked pulmonary or systemic toxicity in rats. In conclusion, inhalation exposure of rats to a low concentration of PC filament emissions produced no significant pulmonary or systemic toxicity. |
U. S. federal perspective on critical research issues in nanoEHS
Carter J , Bjorkland R , Boyes WK , Geraci C , Hackley VA , Howard J , Kennedy A , Linkov I , Matheson J , Mortensen H , Muianga C , Petersen EJ , Savage N , Schulte P , Standridge S , Thomas T , Trump B , Nadadur S . Environ Sci Nano 2023 This article discusses critical issues and opportunities going forward in nanotechnology environmental, health, and safety (nanoEHS) research from the perspective of Federal Government Agency participants in the United States (U.S.) National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) interagency Nanotechnology Environmental and Health Implications Working Group (NEHI). NEHI is responsible for coordination of Federal Science Agency nanoEHS research. As participants in NEHI, we examine these critical issues from an integrated, transdisciplinary perspective, noting examples of impactful research efforts that are advancing knowledge in these areas. Major themes identified include detection, measurement, and characterization of real-world nanomaterial exposures, understanding the biological transformation of nanomaterials and their potential (eco) toxicological implications, understanding the landscape of nanotechnology-enabled products in commerce, and advancing the EHS knowledge infrastructure related to nanomaterials and nanotechnology. Significant investments in nanoEHS research over two decades have led to establishment of a unique and diverse multidisciplinary, multisector community of practice. These investments must be leveraged and adapted not only to future nanotechnology, but also to use as a model for accelerating acquisition of safe and reliable risk information for tomorrow's emerging technologies for a more sustainable and competitive world. © 2023 The Royal Society of Chemistry. |
Inhalation of polycarbonate emissions generated during 3D printing processes affects neuroendocrine function in male rats
Krajnak K , Farcas M , McKinney W , Waugh S , Mandler K , Knepp A , Jackson M , Richardson D , Hammer M , Matheson J , Thomas T , Qian Y . J Toxicol Environ Health A 2023 86 (16) 1-22 Three-dimensional (3D) printing of manufactured goods has increased in the last 10 years. The increased use of this technology has resulted in questions regarding the influence of inhaling emissions generated during printing. The goal of this study was to determine if inhalation of particulate and/or toxic chemicals generated during printing with polycarbonate (PC) plastic affected the neuroendocrine system. Male rats were exposed to 3D-printer emissions (592 µg particulate/m(3) air) or filtered air for 4 h/day (d), 4 days/week and total exposures lengths were 1, 4, 8, 15 or 30 days. The effects of these exposures on hormone concentrations, and markers of function and/or injury in the olfactory bulb, hypothalamus and testes were measured after 1, 8 and 30 days exposure. Thirty days of exposure to 3D printer emissions resulted in reductions in thyroid stimulating hormone, follicle stimulating hormone and prolactin. These changes were accompanied by (1) elevation in markers of cell injury; (2) reductions in active mitochondria in the olfactory bulb, diminished gonadotropin releasing hormone cells and fibers as well as less tyrosine hydroxylase immunolabeled fibers in the arcuate nucleus; and (3) decrease in spermatogonium. Polycarbonate plastics may contain bisphenol A, and the effects of exposure to these 3D printer-generated emissions on neuroendocrine function are similar to those noted following exposure to bisphenol A. |
Hepatitis C screening and antibody prevalence among newly arrived refugees to the United States, 2010-2017
Urban K , Payton C , Mamo B , Volkman H , Giorgio K , Kennedy L , Bomber YC , Rodrigues KK , Young J , Tumaylle C , Matheson J , Tasslimi A , Montour J , Jentes E . J Immigr Minor Health 2023 1-8 Six refugee screening sites collaborated to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies among newly arrived refugees in the United States from 2010 to 2017, identify demographic characteristics associated with HCV antibody positivity, and estimate missed HCV antibody-positive adults among unscreened refugees. We utilized a cross-sectional study to examine HCV prevalence among refugees (N = 144,752). A predictive logistic regression model was constructed to determine the effectiveness of current screening practices at identifying cases. The prevalence of HCV antibodies among the 64,703 refugees screened was 1.6%. Refugees from Burundi (5.4%), Moldova (3.8%), Democratic Republic of Congo (3.2%), Burma (2.8%), and Ukraine (2.0%) had the highest positivity among refugee arrivals. An estimated 498 (0.7%) cases of HCV antibody positivity were missed among 67,787 unscreened adults. The domestic medical examination represents an opportunity to screen all adult refugees for HCV to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. |
Evaluation of pulmonary effects of 3-D printer emissions from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene using an air-liquid interface model of primary normal human-derived bronchial epithelial cells
Farcas MT , McKinney W , Coyle J , Orandle M , Mandler WK , Stefaniak AB , Bowers L , Battelli L , Richardson D , Hammer MA , Friend SA , Service S , Kashon M , Qi C , Hammond DR , Thomas TA , Matheson J , Qian Y . Int J Toxicol 2022 41 (4) 10915818221093605 This study investigated the inhalation toxicity of the emissions from 3-D printing with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filament using an air-liquid interface (ALI) in vitro model. Primary normal human-derived bronchial epithelial cells (NHBEs) were exposed to ABS filament emissions in an ALI for 4 hours. The mean and mode diameters of ABS emitted particles in the medium were 175 ± 24 and 153 ± 15 nm, respectively. The average particle deposition per surface area of the epithelium was 2.29 × 10(7) ± 1.47 × 10(7) particle/cm(2), equivalent to an estimated average particle mass of 0.144 ± 0.042 μg/cm(2). Results showed exposure of NHBEs to ABS emissions did not significantly affect epithelium integrity, ciliation, mucus production, nor induce cytotoxicity. At 24 hours after the exposure, significant increases in the pro-inflammatory markers IL-12p70, IL-13, IL-15, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17A, VEGF, MCP-1, and MIP-1α were noted in the basolateral cell culture medium of ABS-exposed cells compared to non-exposed chamber control cells. Results obtained from this study correspond with those from our previous in vivo studies, indicating that the increase in inflammatory mediators occur without associated membrane damage. The combination of the exposure chamber and the ALI-based model is promising for assessing 3-D printer emission-induced toxicity. |
IVIVE: Facilitating the use of in vitro toxicity data in risk assessment and decision making
Chang X , Tan YM , Allen DG , Bell S , Brown PC , Browning L , Ceger P , Gearhart J , Hakkinen PJ , Kabadi SV , Kleinstreuer NC , Lumen A , Matheson J , Paini A , Pangburn HA , Petersen EJ , Reinke EN , Ribeiro AJS , Sipes N , Sweeney LM , Wambaugh JF , Wange R , Wetmore BA , Mumtaz M . Toxics 2022 10 (5) During the past few decades, the science of toxicology has been undergoing a transformation from observational to predictive science. New approach methodologies (NAMs), including in vitro assays, in silico models, read-across, and in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (IVIVE), are being developed to reduce, refine, or replace whole animal testing, encouraging the judicious use of time and resources. Some of these methods have advanced past the exploratory research stage and are beginning to gain acceptance for the risk assessment of chemicals. A review of the recent literature reveals a burst of IVIVE publications over the past decade. In this review, we propose operational definitions for IVIVE, present literature examples for several common toxicity endpoints, and highlight their implications in decision-making processes across various federal agencies, as well as international organizations, including those in the European Union (EU). The current challenges and future needs are also summarized for IVIVE. In addition to refining and reducing the number of animals in traditional toxicity testing protocols and being used for prioritizing chemical testing, the goal to use IVIVE to facilitate the replacement of animal models can be achieved through their continued evolution and development, including a strategic plan to qualify IVIVE methods for regulatory acceptance. |
U.S. Federal Agency interests and key considerations for new approach methodologies for nanomaterials
Petersen EJ , Ceger P , Allen DG , Coyle J , Derk R , Garcia-Reyero N , Gordon J , Kleinstreuer N , Matheson J , McShan D , Nelson BC , Patri AK , Rice P , Rojanasakul L , Sasidharan A , Scarano L , Chang X . Altex 2021 39 (2) 183-206 Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, surface coatings, and compositions, and often possess novel or enhanced properties compared to larger‑sized particles of the same elemental composition. To ensure the safe commercialization of products containing ENMs, it is important to thoroughly understand their potential risks. Given that ENMs can be created in an almost infinite number of variations, it is not feasible to conduct in vivo testing on each type of ENM. Instead, new approach methodologies (NAMs) such as in vitro or in chemico test methods may be needed, given their capacity for higher throughput testing, lower cost, and ability to provide information on toxicological mechanisms. However, the different behaviors of ENMs compared to dissolved chemicals may challenge safety testing of ENMs using NAMs. In this study, member agencies within the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods were queried about what types of ENMs are of agency interest and whether there is agency-specific guidance for ENMs toxicity testing. To support the ability of NAMs to provide robust results in ENM testing, two key issues in the usage of NAMs, namely dosimetry and interference/bias controls, are thoroughly discussed. |
Pulmonary and systemic toxicity in rats following inhalation exposure of 3-D printer emissions from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filament
Farcas MT , McKinney W , Qi C , Mandler KW , Battelli L , Friend SA , Stefaniak AB , Jackson M , Orandle M , Winn A , Kashon M , LeBouf RF , Russ KA , Hammond DR , Burns D , Ranpara A , Thomas TA , Matheson J , Qian Y . Inhal Toxicol 2020 32 1-16 BACKGROUND: Fused filament fabrication 3-D printing with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filament emits ultrafine particulates (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, the toxicological implications of the emissions generated during 3-D printing have not been fully elucidated. AIM AND METHODS: The goal of this study was to investigate the in vivo toxicity of ABS-emissions from a commercial desktop 3-D printer. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a single concentration of ABS-emissions or air for 4 hours/day, 4 days/week for five exposure durations (1, 4, 8, 15, and 30 days). At 24 hours after the last exposure, rats were assessed for pulmonary injury, inflammation, and oxidative stress as well as systemic toxicity. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: 3-D printing generated particulate with average particle mass concentration of 240 ± 90 µg/m³, with an average geometric mean particle mobility diameter of 85 nm (geometric standard deviation = 1.6). The number of macrophages increased significantly at day 15. In bronchoalveolar lavage, IFN-γ and IL-10 were significantly higher at days 1 and 4, with IL-10 levels reaching a peak at day 15 in ABS-exposed rats. Neither pulmonary oxidative stress responses nor histopathological changes of the lungs and nasal passages were found among the treatments. There was an increase in platelets and monocytes in the circulation at day 15. Several serum biomarkers of hepatic and kidney functions were significantly higher at day 1. CONCLUSIONS: At the current experimental conditions applied, it was concluded that the emissions from ABS filament caused minimal transient pulmonary and systemic toxicity. |
No evidence of acute dengue virus infections at a rural site in western Kenya, 2011 and 2013
Matheson AI , Mogeni OD , Lacsina JR , Ochieng M , Audi A , Bigogo G , Neatherlin J , Margolis HS , Fields B , Ahenda P , Walson JL , Montgomery JM . Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020 103 (5) 2054-2058 The incidence and spread of dengue virus (DENV) have increased rapidly in recent decades. Dengue is underreported in Africa, but recent outbreaks and seroprevalence data suggest that DENV is widespread there. A lack of ongoing surveillance limits knowledge about its spatial reach and hinders disease control planning. We sought to add data on dengue distribution in Kenya through diagnostic testing of serum specimens from persons with an acute febrile illness (AFI) attending an outpatient clinic in rural western Kenya (Asembo) during rainy seasons. Patients with symptoms not likely to be misclassified as dengue (e.g., diarrhea and anemia), those with a positive diagnostic laboratory results which explained their febrile illness, or those with serum collected more than 5 days after fever onset were excluded. However, febrile patients with a positive malaria smear were included in the study. We used reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to test for DENV and IgM anti-DENV to test for recent infection. Of the 615 serum specimens available for testing, none were dengue positive by either RT-PCR or IgM anti-DENV testing. Dengue did not appear to be a cause of febrile illness in this area of western Kenya, although our relatively small sample size may not have identified DENV infections occurring at low incidence. A more widespread AFI surveillance system that includes dengue diagnostic testing by RT-PCR and antibody-based methods is required to more definitively gauge the size and geographic distribution of DENV infection in western Kenya. |
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polycarbonate (PC) filaments three-dimensional (3-D) printer emissions-induced cell toxicity
Farcas MT , Stefaniak AB , Knepp AK , Bowers L , Mandler WK , Kashon M , Jackson SR , Stueckle TA , Sisler JD , Friend SA , Qi C , Hammond DR , Thomas TA , Matheson J , Castranova V , Qian Y . Toxicol Lett 2019 317 1-12 During extrusion of some polymers, fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3-D printers emit billions of particles per minute and numerous organic compounds. The scope of this study was to evaluate FFF 3-D printer emission-induced toxicity in human small airway epithelial cells (SAEC). Emissions were generated from a commercially available 3-D printer inside a chamber, while operating for 1.5h with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polycarbonate (PC) filaments, and collected in cell culture medium. Characterization of the culture medium revealed that repeat print runs with an identical filament yield various amounts of particles and organic compounds. Mean particle sizes in cell culture medium were 201+/-18nm and 202+/-8nm for PC and ABS, respectively. At 24h post-exposure, both PC and ABS emissions induced a dose dependent significant cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, apoptosis, necrosis, and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in SAEC. Though the emissions may not completely represent all possible exposure scenarios, this study indicate that the FFF could induce toxicological effects. Further studies are needed to quantify the detected chemicals in the emissions and their corresponding toxicological effects. |
Exploring current read-across applications and needs among selected U.S. federal agencies
Patlewicz G , Lizarraga L , Rua D , Allen DG , Daniel A , Fitzpatrick SC , Garcia-Reyero N , Gordon J , Hakkinen P , Howard AS , Karmaus A , Matheson J , Mumtaz M , Richarz AN , Ruiz P , Scarano L , Yamada T , Kleinstreuer N . Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2019 106 197-209 Read-across is a well-established data gap-filling technique applied for regulatory purposes. In US Environmental Protection Agency's New Chemicals Program under TSCA, read-across has been used extensively for decades, however the extent of application and acceptance of read-across among U.S. federal agencies is less clear. In an effort to build read-across capacity, raise awareness of the state of the science, and work towards a harmonization of read-across approaches across U.S. agencies, a new read-across workgroup was established under the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM). This is one of several ad hoc groups ICCVAM has convened to implement the ICCVAM Strategic Roadmap. In this article, we outline the charge and scope of the workgroup and summarize the current applications, tools used, and needs of the agencies represented on the workgroup for read-across. Of the agencies surveyed, the Environmental Protection Agency had the greatest experience in using read-across whereas other agencies indicated that they would benefit from gaining a perspective of the landscape of the tools and available guidance. Two practical case studies are also described to illustrate how the read-across approaches applied by two agencies vary on account of decision context. |
Blood lead levels among resettled refugee children in select US states, 2010-2014
Pezzi C , Lee D , Kennedy L , Aguirre J , Titus M , Ford R , Cochran J , Smock L , Mamo B , Urban K , Morillo J , Hughes S , Payton C , Scott K , Montour J , Matheson J , Brown MJ , Mitchell T . Pediatrics 2019 143 (5) BACKGROUND: Elevated blood lead levels (EBLLs; >/=5 microg/dL) are more prevalent among refugee children resettled in the United States than the general US population and contribute to permanent health and neurodevelopmental problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends screening of refugee children aged 6 months to 16 years on arrival in the United States and retesting those aged 6 months to 6 years between 3- and 6-months postarrival. METHODS: We analyzed EBLL prevalence among refugee children aged 6 months to 16 years who received a domestic refugee medical examination between January 1, 2010 and September 30, 2014. We assessed EBLL prevalence by predeparture examination country and, among children rescreened 3 to 6 months after initial testing, we assessed EBLL changes during follow-up screening. RESULTS: Twelve sites provided data on 27 284 children representing nearly 25% of refugee children resettling during the time period of this analysis. The EBLL prevalence during initial testing was 19.3%. EBLL was associated with younger age, male sex, and overseas examination country. Among 1121 children from 5 sites with available follow-up test results, EBLL prevalence was 22.7%; higher follow-up BLLs were associated with younger age and predeparture examination country. CONCLUSIONS: EBLL decreased over the time period of our analysis in this population of refugee children. Refugee children may be exposed to lead before and after resettlement to the United States. Efforts to identify incoming refugee populations at high risk for EBLL can inform prevention efforts both domestically and overseas. |
Skin sensitization testing needs and data uses by US regulatory and research agencies
Strickland J , Daniel AB , Allen D , Aguila C , Ahir S , Bancos S , Craig E , Germolec D , Ghosh C , Hudson NL , Jacobs A , Lehmann DM , Matheson J , Reinke EN , Sadrieh N , Vukmanovic S , Kleinstreuer N . Arch Toxicol 2018 93 (2) 273-291 United States regulatory and research agencies may rely upon skin sensitization test data to assess the sensitization hazards associated with dermal exposure to chemicals and products. These data are evaluated to ensure that such substances will not cause unreasonable adverse effects to human health when used appropriately. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission, the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US Food and Drug Administration, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and the US Department of Defense are member agencies of the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Validation of Alternative Methods (ICCVAM). ICCVAM seeks to identify opportunities for the use of non-animal replacements to satisfy these testing needs and requirements. This review identifies the standards, test guidelines, or guidance documents that are applicable to satisfy each of these agency's needs; the current use of animal testing and flexibility for using alternative methodologies; information needed from alternative tests to fulfill the needs for skin sensitization data; and whether data from non-animal alternative approaches are accepted by these US federal agencies. |
Summary of available surveillance data on hepatitis C virus infection from eight Arctic countries, 2012 to 2014
Gounder PP , Koch A , Provo G , Lovlie A , Ederth JL , Axelsson M , Archibald CP , Hanley B , Mullen A , Matheson M , Allison D , Trykker H , Hennessy TW , Kuusi M , Chulanov V , McMahon BJ . Euro Surveill 2018 23 (40) We summarised available hepatitis C virus (HCV) surveillance data for 2012-14 from Arctic/sub-Arctic countries/regions. We sent a HCV data collection template by email to public health authorities in all jurisdictions. Population statistics obtained from census sources for each country were used to estimate rates of reported acute and chronic/undifferentiated HCV cases. Seven countries with Arctic regions (Canada, Denmark, Finland, Greenland, Norway, Sweden and the United States, represented by the state of Alaska), including three Canadian territories and one province, as well as 11 Russian subnational Arctic regions, completed the data collection template. Data on acute HCV infection during 2014 was available from three Arctic countries and all Russian Arctic regions (rate range 0/100,000 population in Greenland, as well as Nenets and Chukotka Automous Okrugs (Russian subnational Arctic regions) to 3.7/100,000 in the Russian Republic of Komi). The rate of people with chronic/undifferentiated HCV infection in 2014 ranged from 0/100,000 in Greenland to 171.2/100,000 in Alaska. In most countries/regions, the majority of HCV-infected people were male and aged 19-64 years. Differences in surveillance methods preclude direct comparisons of HCV surveillance data between Arctic countries/regions. Our data can inform future efforts to develop standardised approaches to HCV surveillance in the Arctic countries/regions by identifying similarities/differences between the surveillance data collected. |
Evaluation of hepatitis B virus screening, vaccination, and linkage to care among newly arrived refugees in four states, 2009-2011
Mitruka K , Pezzi C , Baack B , Burke H , Cochran J , Matheson J , Urban K , Ramos M , Byrd K . J Immigr Minor Health 2018 21 (1) 39-46 Many U.S.-bound refugees originate from countries with intermediate or high hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection prevalence and have risk for severe liver disease. We evaluated HBV screening and vaccination of newly arrived refugees in four states to identify program improvement opportunities. Data on HBV testing at domestic health assessments (1/1/2009-12/31/2011) were abstracted from state refugee health surveillance systems. Logistic regression identified correlates of infection. Over 95% of adults aged >/=19 years (N = 24,647) and 50% of children (N = 12,249) were tested. Among 32,107 refugees with valid results, the overall infection prevalence was 2.9% (0.76-9.25%); HBV prevalence reflected the burden in birth countries. Birth in the Western Pacific region carried the greatest infection risk (adjusted prevalence ratio = 4.8, CI 2.9, 7.9). Care linkage for infection was unconfirmed. Of 7409 susceptible persons, 38% received 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine. Testing children, documenting care linkage, and completing 3-dose vaccine series were opportunities for improvement. |
Accuracy of HIV risk perceptions among episodic substance-using men who have sex with men
Hall GC , Koenig LJ , Gray SC , Herbst JH , Matheson T , Coffin P , Raiford J . AIDS Behav 2017 22 (6) 1932-1943 Using the HIV Incident Risk Index for men who have sex with men-an objective and validated measure of risk for HIV acquisition, and self-perceptions of belief and worry about acquiring HIV, we identified individuals who underestimated substantial risk for HIV. Data from a racially/ethnically diverse cohort of 324 HIV-negative episodic substance-using men who have sex with men (SUMSM) enrolled in a behavioral risk reduction intervention (2010-2012) were analyzed. Two hundred and fourteen (66%) SUMSM at substantial risk for HIV were identified, of whom 147 (69%, or 45% of the total sample) underestimated their risk. In multivariable regression analyses, compared to others in the cohort, SUMSM who underestimated their substantial risk were more likely to report: a recent sexually transmitted infection diagnosis, experiencing greater social isolation, and exchanging sex for drugs, money, or other goods. An objective risk screener can be valuable to providers in identifying and discussing with SUMSM factors associated with substantial HIV risk, particularly those who may not recognize their risk. |
Correlates of recent HIV testing among substance-using men who have sex with men
Rowe C , Matheson T , Das M , DeMicco E , Herbst JH , Coffin PO , Santos GM . Int J STD AIDS 2017 28 (6) 594-601 Men who have sex with men are disproportionately impacted by HIV and substance use is a key driver of HIV risk and transmission among this population. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 3242 HIV-negative substance-using men who have sex with men aged 18 + in the San Francisco Bay Area from March 2009 to May 2012. Demographic characteristics and sexual risk and substance use behaviors in the last six months were collected using structured telephone questionnaires. We used multivariable logistic regression to identify independent demographic and behavioral predictors of recent HIV testing. In all, 65% reported having an HIV test in the last six months. In multivariable analysis, increasing age (aOR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.84-0.90) and drinking alcohol (<1 drink/day: 0.65, 0.46-0.92; 2-3 drinks/day: 0.64, 0.45-0.91; 4 + drinks/day: 0.52, 0.35-0.78) were negatively associated with recent HIV testing. Having two or more condomless anal intercourse partners (2.17, 1.69-2.79) was positively associated with having a recent HIV test, whereas condomless anal intercourse with serodiscordant partners was not significantly associated with testing. Older men who have sex with men and those who drink alcohol may benefit from specific targeting in efforts to expand HIV testing. Inherently riskier discordant serostatus of partners is not as significant a motivator of HIV testing as condomless anal intercourse in general. |
Environmental transmission of typhoid fever in an urban slum
Akullian A , Ng'eno E , Matheson AI , Cosmas L , Macharia D , Fields B , Bigogo G , Mugoh M , John-Stewart G , Walson JL , Wakefield J , Montgomery JM . PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015 9 (12) e0004212 BACKGROUND: Enteric fever due to Salmonella Typhi (typhoid fever) occurs in urban areas with poor sanitation. While direct fecal-oral transmission is thought to be the predominant mode of transmission, recent evidence suggests that indirect environmental transmission may also contribute to disease spread. METHODS: Data from a population-based infectious disease surveillance system (28,000 individuals followed biweekly) were used to map the spatial pattern of typhoid fever in Kibera, an urban informal settlement in Nairobi Kenya, between 2010-2011. Spatial modeling was used to test whether variations in topography and accumulation of surface water explain the geographic patterns of risk. RESULTS: Among children less than ten years of age, risk of typhoid fever was geographically heterogeneous across the study area (p = 0.016) and was positively associated with lower elevation, OR = 1.87, 95% CI (1.36-2.57), p <0.001. In contrast, the risk of typhoid fever did not vary geographically or with elevation among individuals less than 6b ten years of age. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide evidence of indirect, environmental transmission of typhoid fever among children, a group with high exposure to fecal pathogens in the environment. Spatially targeting sanitation interventions may decrease enteric fever transmission. |
An assessment of data quality in a multi-site electronic medical record system in Haiti
Puttkammer N , Baseman JG , Devine EB , Valles JS , Hyppolite N , Garilus F , Honore JG , Matheson AI , Zeliadt S , Yuhas K , Sherr K , Cadet JR , Zamor G , Pierre E , Barnhart S . Int J Med Inform 2015 86 104-16 OBJECTIVES: Strong data quality (DQ) is a precursor to strong data use. In resource limited settings, routine DQ assessment (DQA) within electronic medical record (EMR) systems can be resource-intensive using manual methods such as audit and chart review; automated queries offer an efficient alternative. This DQA focused on Haiti's national EMR - iSante - and included longitudinal data for over 100,000 persons living with HIV (PLHIV) enrolled in HIV care and treatment services at 95 health care facilities (HCF). METHODS: This mixed-methods evaluation used a qualitative Delphi process to identify DQ priorities among local stakeholders, followed by a quantitative DQA on these priority areas. The quantitative DQA examined 13 indicators of completeness, accuracy, and timeliness of retrospective data collected from 2005 to 2013. We described levels of DQ for each indicator over time, and examined the consistency of within-HCF performance and associations between DQ and HCF and EMR system characteristics. RESULTS: Over all iSante data, age was incomplete in <1% of cases, while height, pregnancy status, TB status, and ART eligibility were more incomplete (approximately 20-40%). Suspicious data flags were present for <3% of cases of male sex, ART dispenses, CD4 values, and visit dates, but for 26% of cases of age. Discontinuation forms were available for about half of all patients without visits for 180 or more days, and >60% of encounter forms were entered late. For most indicators, DQ tended to improve over time. DQ was highly variable across HCF, and within HCFs DQ was variable across indicators. In adjusted analyses, HCF and system factors with generally favorable and statistically significant associations with DQ were University hospital category, private sector governance, presence of local iSante server, greater HCF experience with the EMR, greater maturity of the EMR itself, and having more system users but fewer new users. In qualitative feedback, local stakeholders emphasized lack of stable power supply as a key challenge to data quality and use of the iSante EMR. CONCLUSIONS: Variable performance on key DQ indicators across HCF suggests that excellent DQ is achievable in Haiti, but further effort is needed to systematize and routinize DQ approaches within HCFs. A dynamic, interactive "DQ dashboard" within iSante could bring transparency and motivate improvement. While the results of the study are specific to Haiti's iSante data system, the study's methods and thematic lessons learned holdgeneralized relevance for other large-scale EMR systems in resource-limited countries. |
Deconstructing the differences: a comparison of GBD 2010 and CHERG inverted question marks approach to estimating the mortality burden of diarrhea, pneumonia, and their etiologies
Kovacs SD , Mullholland K , Bosch J , Campbell H , Forouzanfar MH , Khalil I , Lim S , Liu L , Maley SN , Mathers CD , Matheson A , Mokdad AH , OBrien K , Parashar U , Schaafsma TT , Steele D , Hawes SE , Grove JT . BMC Infect Dis 2015 15 (1) 16 BACKGROUND: Pneumonia and diarrhea are leading causes of death for children under five (U5). It is challenging to estimate the total number of deaths and cause-specific mortality fractions. Two major efforts, one led by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) and the other led by the World Health Organization (WHO)/Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group (CHERG) created estimates for the burden of disease due to these two syndromes, yet their estimates differed greatly for 2010. METHODS: This paper discusses three main drivers of the differences: data sources, data processing, and covariates used for modelling. The paper discusses differences in the model assumptions for etiology-specific estimates and presents recommendations for improving future models. RESULTS: IHME inverted question marks Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2010 study estimated 6.8 million U5 deaths compared to 7.6 million U5 deaths from CHERG. The proportional differences between the pneumonia and diarrhea burden estimates from the two groups are much larger; GBD 2010 estimated 0.847 million and CHERG estimated 1.396 million due to pneumonia. Compared to CHERG, GBD 2010 used broader inclusion criteria for verbal autopsy and vital registration data. GBD 2010 and CHERG used different data processing procedures and therefore attributed the causes of neonatal death differently. The major difference in pneumonia etiologies modeling approach was the inclusion of observational study data; GBD 2010 included observational studies. CHERG relied on vaccine efficacy studies. DISCUSSION: Greater transparency in modeling methods and more timely access to data sources are needed. In October 2013, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) hosted an expert meeting to examine possible approaches for better estimation. The group recommended examining the impact of data by systematically excluding sources in their models. GBD 2.0 will use a counterfactual approach for estimating mortality from pathogens due to specific etiologies to overcome bias of the methods used in GBD 2010 going forward. |
A roadmap for adapting an evidence-based HIV prevention intervention: Personal Cognitive Counseling (PCC) for episodic substance-using men who have sex with men
Knight KR , Das M , DeMicco E , Raiford JL , Matheson T , Shook A , Antunez E , Santos GM , Dadasovich R , Dilley JW , Colfax GN , Herbst JH . Prev Sci 2014 15 (3) 364-75 Episodic (less than weekly) drug use and binge drinking increase HIV-related sexual risk behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM), yet no evidence-based interventions exist for these men. We describe an adaptation process of the Personalized Cognitive Counseling (PCC) intervention for utilization with high-risk, HIV-negative episodic, substance-using MSM. Participants (N = 59) were racially diverse, and reported unprotected anal intercourse and concurrent binge drinking (85 %), use of poppers (36 %), methamphetamine (20 %) and cocaine (12 %). Semi-structured interviews with 20 episodic, substance-using MSM elicited sexual narratives for engaging in unprotected anal intercourse while using alcohol or drugs. Emergent qualitative themes were translated into self-justifications and included in a revised PCC self-justification elicitation instrument (SJEI). The adapted SJEI was pretested with 19 episodic, substance-using MSM, and the final adapted PCC was pilot-tested for acceptability and feasibility with 20 episodic, substance-using MSM. This process can be used as a roadmap for adapting PCC for other high-risk populations of MSM. |
Adapted personalized cognitive counseling for episodic substance-using men who have sex with men: a randomized controlled trial
Coffin PO , Santos GM , Colfax G , Das M , Matheson T , DeMicco E , Dilley J , Vittinghoff E , Raiford JL , Carry M , Herbst JH . AIDS Behav 2014 18 (7) 1390-400 Episodic drug use and binge drinking are associated with HIV risk among substance-using men who have sex with men (SUMSM), yet no evidence-based interventions exist for these men. We adapted personalized cognitive counseling (PCC) to address self-justifications for high-risk sex among HIV-negative, episodic SUMSM, then randomized men to PCC (n = 162) with HIV testing or control (n = 164) with HIV testing alone. No significant between-group differences were found in the three primary study outcomes: number of unprotected anal intercourse events (UAI), number of UAI partners, and UAI with three most recent non-primary partners. In a planned subgroup analysis of non-substance dependent men, there were significant reductions in UAI with most recent non-primary partners among PCC participants (RR = 0.56; 95 %CI 0.34-0.92; P = 0.02). We did not find evidence that PCC reduced sexual risk behaviors overall, but observed significant reductions in UAI events among non-dependent SUMSM. PCC may be beneficial among SUMSM screening negative for substance dependence. |
Substance use and drinking outcomes in Personalized Cognitive Counseling randomized trial for episodic substance-using men who have sex with men
Santos GM , Coffin PO , Vittinghoff E , Demicco E , Das M , Matheson T , Raiford JL , Carry M , Colfax G , Herbst JH , Dilley JW . Drug Alcohol Depend 2014 138 234-9 BACKGROUND: Non-dependent alcohol and substance use patterns are prevalent among men who have sex with men (MSM), yet few effective interventions to reduce their substance use are available for these men. We evaluated whether an adapted brief counseling intervention aimed at reducing HIV risk behavior was associated with secondary benefits of reducing substance use among episodic substance-using MSM (SUMSM). METHODS: 326 episodic SUMSM were randomized to brief Personalized Cognitive Counseling (PCC) intervention with rapid HIV testing or to rapid HIV testing only control. Both arms followed over 6 months. Trends in substance use were examined using GEE Poisson models with robust standard errors by arm. Reductions in frequency of use were examined using ordered logistic regression. RESULTS: In intent-to-treat analyses, compared to men who received rapid HIV testing only, we found men randomized to PCC with rapid HIV testing were more likely to report abstaining from alcohol consumption (RR=0.93; 95% CI=0.89-0.97), marijuana use (RR=0.84; 95% CI=0.73-0.98), and erectile dysfunction drug use (EDD; RR=0.51; 95% CI=0.33-0.79) over the 6-month follow-up. PCC was also significantly associated with reductions in frequency of alcohol intoxication (OR=0.58; 95% CI=0.36-0.90) over follow-up. Furthermore, we found PCC was associated with significant reductions in number of unprotected anal intercourse events while under the influence of methamphetamine (RR=0.26; 95% CI=0.08-0.84). CONCLUSION: The addition of adapted PCC to rapid HIV testing may have benefits in increasing abstinence from certain classes of substances previously associated with HIV risk, including alcohol and EDD; and reducing alcohol intoxication frequency and high-risk sexual behaviors concurrent with methamphetamine use. |
Dose-response associations between number and frequency of substance use and high-risk sexual behaviors among HIV-negative substance-using men who have sex with men (SUMSM) in San Francisco
Santos GM , Coffin PO , Das M , Matheson T , Demicco E , Raiford JL , Vittinghoff E , Dilley JW , Colfax G , Herbst JH . J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2013 63 (4) 540-4 We evaluated the relationship between frequency and number of substances used and HIV risk (i.e. serodiscordant unprotected anal intercourse [SDUAI]) among 3173 HIV-negative substance-using MSM. Compared to non-users, the adjusted odds ratio(AOR) for SDUAI among episodic and at least weekly users, respectively, was 3.31(95%CI 2.55-4.28) and 5.46(3.80-7.84) for methamphetamine, 1.86(1.51-2.29) and 3.13(2.12-4.63) for cocaine, and 2.08(1.68-2.56) and 2.54(1.85-3.48) for poppers. Heavy alcohol drinkers reported more SDUAI than moderate drinkers (AOR=1.90(1.43-2.51)). Compared to non-users, AORs for using one, two, and ≥ three substances were 16.81(12.25-23.08), 27.31(18.93-39.39), and 46.38(30.65-70.19), respectively. High-risk sexual behaviors were strongly associated with frequency and number of substances used. |
Implementing rapid HIV testing with or without risk-reduction counseling in drug treatment centers: results of a randomized trial
Metsch LR , Feaster DJ , Gooden L , Matheson T , Mandler RN , Haynes L , Tross S , Kyle T , Gallup D , Kosinski AS , Douaihy A , Schackman BR , Das M , Lindblad R , Erickson S , Korthuis PT , Martino S , Sorensen JL , Szapocznik J , Walensky R , Branson B , Colfax GN . Am J Public Health 2012 102 (6) 1160-7 OBJECTIVES: We examined the effectiveness of risk reduction counseling and the role of on-site HIV testing in drug treatment. METHODS: Between January and May 2009, we randomized 1281 HIV-negative (or status unknown) adults who reported no past-year HIV testing to (1) referral for off-site HIV testing, (2) HIV risk-reduction counseling with on-site rapid HIV testing, or (3) verbal information about testing only with on-site rapid HIV testing. RESULTS: We defined 2 primary self-reported outcomes a priori: receipt of HIV test results and unprotected anal or vaginal intercourse episodes at 6-month follow-up. The combined on-site rapid testing participants received more HIV test results than off-site testing referral participants (P < .001; Mantel-Haenszel risk ratio = 4.52; 97.5% confidence interval [CI] = 3.57, 5.72). At 6 months, there were no significant differences in unprotected intercourse episodes between the combined on-site testing arms and the referral arm (P = .39; incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.04; 97.5% CI = 0.95, 1.14) or the 2 on-site testing arms (P = .81; IRR = 1.03; 97.5% CI = 0.84, 1.26). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated on-site rapid HIV testing's value in drug treatment centers and found no additional benefit from HIV sexual risk-reduction counseling. (Am J Public Health. Published online ahead of print April 19, 2012: e1-e8. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2011.300460.) |
Uric acid as a potential cue to screen for iron overload
Mainous AG 3rd , Knoll ME , Everett CJ , Matheson EM , Hulihan MM , Grant AM . J Am Board Fam Med 2011 24 (4) 415-21 BACKGROUND: It is suggested that targeted screening for hemochromatosis and iron overload may be worthwhile. The aim of this study was to examine uric acid as a potential indicator of the presence of iron overload. METHODS: We analyzed adults aged 20 and older in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999 to 2002. We computed logistic regressions controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, liver or kidney condition, and alcohol use to see the relationship between combinations of uric acid and ferritin with the outcomes of elevated liver enzymes and proteinuria. RESULTS: In unadjusted analyses, 20.7% of individuals with high uric acid had high ferritin levels versus 8.8% of individuals with low uric acid levels (P < .001). Individuals with both elevated uric acid and elevated ferritin levels had significantly higher liver enzymes than individuals with either elevated uric acid or ferritin. With low uric acid and low ferritin as the reference category, individuals with high uric acid and high ferritin were significantly more likely to also have proteinuria (odds ratio, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.82-3.91). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated levels of uric acid is associated with elevated ferritin levels and may serve as a risk stratification variable for presence of iron overload and hemochromatosis. |
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