201
|
Bier RL, Voss KA, Bernhardt ES. Bacterial community responses to a gradient of alkaline mountaintop mine drainage in Central Appalachian streams. ISME J 2015; 9:1378-90. [PMID: 25500511 PMCID: PMC4438324 DOI: 10.1038/ismej.2014.222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Microbial community composition and diversity change along chemical gradients, leading to the expectation that microbial community information might provide new gradient characterizations. Here we examine stream bacteria composition and diversity along a strong chemical gradient in Central Appalachian streams. Coal mining in the region generates alkaline mine drainage (AlkMD), causing dramatic increases in conductivity, alkalinity, sulfate and metals sufficient to degrade stream macrobiota communities throughout the ecoregion. In this study, we examined the relationship between water and biofilm chemistry and biofilm bacteria taxonomic composition in streams where active and reclaimed surface coal mines occupied 0-96% of watershed surface area. We incubated wood veneers in each stream site for 4 months to develop biofilms on similar substrates. We sampled water chemistry at the time of deployment and collection, and after 1 month. Following incubation, we collected biofilms for microbial and chemical characterization. Microbial composition was determined by pyrosequencing 16S rRNA amplicons. Biofilm subsamples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to determine metal concentrations. Our results show that microbial community composition differed significantly between AlkMD-exposed and AlkMD-unexposed sites, and that compositional dissimilarity increased with AlkMD loading. Diversity was not correlated with pH or extent of upstream mining, but instead correlated with biofilm concentrations of Cd, Mn, Zn and Ni. Within mined sites, the extent of upstream mining was negatively correlated with taxonomic richness. Despite major compositional shifts, functional capacity predicted with PICRUSt (Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States) correlated with mining in only 3 of 43 level-2 KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) Orthology groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raven L Bier
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kristofor A Voss
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Emily S Bernhardt
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
202
|
Sutton WB, Gray MJ, Hoverman JT, Secrist RG, Super PE, Hardman RH, Tucker JL, Miller DL. Trends in Ranavirus Prevalence Among Plethodontid Salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Ecohealth 2015; 12:320-329. [PMID: 25537630 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-014-0994-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2013] [Revised: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Emerging pathogens are a potential contributor to global amphibian declines. Ranaviruses, which infect ectothermic vertebrates and are common in aquatic environments, have been implicated in die-offs of at least 72 amphibian species worldwide. Most studies on the subject have focused on pool-breeding amphibians, and infection trends in other amphibian species assemblages have been understudied. Our primary study objective was to evaluate hypotheses explaining ranavirus prevalence within a lungless salamander assemblage (Family Plethodontidae) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. We sampled 566 total plethodontid salamanders representing 14 species at five sites over a 6-year period (2007-2012). We identified ranavirus-positive individuals in 11 of the 14 (78.6%) sampled species, with salamanders in the genus Desmognathus having greatest infection prevalence. Overall, we found the greatest support for site elevation and sampling year determining infection prevalence. We detected the greatest number of infections in 2007 with 82.5% of sampled individuals testing positive for ranavirus, which we attribute to record drought during this year. Infection prevalence remained relatively high in low-elevation sites in 2008 and 2009. Neither body condition nor aquatic dependence was a significant predictor of ranavirus prevalence. Overall, our results indicate that life history differences among species play a minor role determining ranavirus prevalence compared to the larger effects of site elevation and yearly fluctuations (likely due to environmental stressors) during sampling years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William B Sutton
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA.
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN, 37209, USA.
| | - Matthew J Gray
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Jason T Hoverman
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Richard G Secrist
- Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, Townsend, TN, 37882, USA
| | - Paul E Super
- Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Lake Junaluska, NC, 28745, USA
| | - Rebecca H Hardman
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Jennifer L Tucker
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Debra L Miller
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| |
Collapse
|
203
|
Servick S, Visger CJ, Gitzendanner MA, Soltis PS, Soltis DE. Population genetic variation, geographic structure, and multiple origins of autopolyploidy in Galax urceolata. Am J Bot 2015; 102:973-82. [PMID: 26101421 DOI: 10.3732/ajb.1400554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE OF THE STUDY Whereas population genetic studies have examined allopolyploids, comparable studies of naturally occurring autopolyploids remain rare. To address fundamental questions regarding autopolyploidy, we undertook a detailed population genetic study of one of the classic examples of autopolyploidy, Galax urceolata (Diapensiaceae), which comprises diploid, triploid, and autotetraploid cytotypes. Galax is endemic to the Appalachian Mountains, the adjacent piedmont, sandhills, and coastal plain and represents perhaps the most widely known example of autopolyploidy in nature. METHODS Flow cytometry was used to diagnose ploidal level of ∼1000 individuals across 71 populations. We used 10 microsatellite markers to examine genetic variation across the geographic range of Galax and assessed multiple origins though comparisons of diploid, triploid, and tetraploid accessions using multiple analytical approaches. KEY RESULTS Tetraploids had higher levels of heterozygosity than diploids did. Genetic variation in diploid and tetraploid Galax is geographically structured among the ecoregions of the southeastern United States. Autotetraploidy in Galax urceolata has occurred independently at least 46 times, with triploidy having occurred a minimum of 31 times. CONCLUSIONS Genetic differentiation among ecoregions suggests historical patterns of local adaptation. The numerous independent origins of tetraploid Galax reported here are among the highest frequencies of independent polyploidizations ever reported for any polyploid (auto- or allopolyploid).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stein Servick
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611 USA
| | - Clayton J Visger
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611 USA
| | | | - Pamela S Soltis
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611 USA Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610 USA
| | - Douglas E Soltis
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611 USA
| |
Collapse
|
204
|
Manos PS, Meireles JE. Biogeographic analysis of the woody plants of the Southern Appalachians: Implications for the origins of a regional flora. Am J Bot 2015; 102:780-804. [PMID: 26022491 DOI: 10.3732/ajb.1400530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE OF THE STUDY We investigated the origins of 252 Southern Appalachian woody species representing 158 clades to analyze larger patterns of biogeographic connectivity around the northern hemisphere. We tested biogeographic hypotheses regarding the timing of species disjunctions to eastern Asia and among areas of North America. METHODS We delimited species into biogeographically informative clades, compiled sister-area data, and generated graphic representations of area connections across clades. We calculated taxon diversity within clades and plotted divergence times. KEY RESULTS Of the total taxon diversity, 45% were distributed among 25 North American endemic clades. Sister taxa within eastern North America and eastern Asia were proportionally equal in frequency, accounting for over 50% of the sister-area connections. At increasing phylogenetic depth, connections to the Old World dominated. Divergence times for 65 clades with intercontinental disjunctions were continuous, whereas 11 intracontinental disjunctions to western North America and nine to eastern Mexico were temporally congruent. CONCLUSIONS Over one third of the clades have likely undergone speciation within the region of eastern North America. The biogeographic pattern for the region is asymmetric, consisting of mostly mixed-aged, low-diversity clades connecting to the Old World, and a minority of New World clades. Divergence time data suggest that climate change in the Late Miocene to Early Pliocene generated disjunct patterns within North America. Continuous splitting times during the last 45 million years support the hypothesis that widespread distributions formed repeatedly during favorable periods, with serial cooling trends producing pseudocongruent area disjunctions between eastern North America and eastern Asia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Manos
- Department of Biology, Box 90338 Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708-0338 USA
| | - José Eduardo Meireles
- Department of Biology, Box 90338 Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708-0338 USA
| |
Collapse
|
205
|
Slawson DL, Dalton WT, Dula TM, Southerland J, Wang L, Littleton MA, Mozen D, Relyea G, Schetzina K, Lowe EF, Stoots JM, Wu T. College students as facilitators in reducing adolescent obesity disparity in Southern Appalachia: Team Up for Healthy Living. Contemp Clin Trials 2015; 43:39-52. [PMID: 25937506 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The proportion of obese adolescents in Southern Appalachia is among the highest in the nation. Through funding from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities--National Institutes of Health, the Team Up for Healthy Living project was a cluster-randomized trial targeting obesity prevention in adolescents through a cross-peer intervention. The specific aims of the project were to: 1) develop a peer-based health education program focusing on establishing positive peer norms towards healthy eating and physical activity (PA) among high school students, 2) test program efficacy, and 3) explore mechanisms underlying the program. The study was guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior, which presupposes that human behavior is primarily driven by attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and social support. To deliver the intervention, undergraduate students from the disciplines of public health, nutrition, and kinesiology were hired as peer facilitators. Ten area high schools were invited to participate, were matched on demographics and then randomized to intervention or control. The primary outcomes of the study included body mass status, dietary behaviors, PA, and sedentary behaviors which were assessed at baseline and at three and twelve months post baseline. Intervention schools received Team Up for Healthy Living curriculum, which consists of eight 40-minute sessions. The curriculum focused on improving nutrition awareness, PA, leadership and communication. Control schools received their regularly scheduled Lifetime Wellness curriculum. The long-term goal of the study was to establish an effective academia-community partnership program to address adolescent obesity disparity in Southern Appalachia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - William T Dalton
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | | | - Jodi Southerland
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | - Liang Wang
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | | | - Diana Mozen
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | - George Relyea
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | - Karen Schetzina
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | - Elizabeth F Lowe
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | - James M Stoots
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| | - Tiejian Wu
- East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, United States
| |
Collapse
|
206
|
Abstract
Religion and spirituality are much studied coping mechanisms; however, their relationship to changes in behaviors, relationships, and goals is unclear. This study explored the impact of a breast cancer diagnosis on religion/faith and changes in behaviors, relationship, or goals. In this qualitative study, women, who participated in a larger, quantitative study, completed written responses to questions regarding the role of religion/faith in their lives, the impact of their diagnosis on their image of God and on faith/religious beliefs, and any changes in behaviors, relationships, or life goals were examined. Based on previous findings noting differences in psychological outcomes based on a higher (HE) or lesser (LE) engaged view of God, 28 (14 HE; 14 LE) women were included in the analysis. Awareness of life and its fleeting nature was common to all. Ensuing behaviors varied from a need to focus on self-improvement-egocentrism (LE)-to a need to focus on using their experiences to help others-altruism (HE). Study results suggest that seemingly small, but highly meaningful, differences based on one's worldview result in considerably different attitudinal and behavioral outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Schreiber
- School of Nursing, University of Louisville, 555 S. Floyd St., #4057, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA,
| | | |
Collapse
|
207
|
Abstract
Although health promotion programming in faith institutions is promising, most faith-based or placed health projects focus on diet, exercise, or cancer screening and many have been located in urban environments. This article addresses the notable absence of faith programming for smoking cessation among underserved rural US residents who experience tobacco-related health inequities. In this article, we describe our faith-oriented smoking cessation program in rural Appalachia, involving 590 smokers in 26 rural churches randomized to early and delayed intervention groups. We present three main themes that account for participants' positive evaluation of the program; the program's ability to leverage social connections; the program's convenience orientation; and the program's financial support for smoking cessation. We also present themes on the roles of faith and church in smoking cessation programming, including some mixed perceptions on smoking stigma and comfort in church settings; challenges in faith-placed smoking cessation recruitment; and the positive perception of such programming by church leaders. We conclude that faith-placed smoking cessation programs offer great potential, although they must be administered with great sensitivity to individual and community norms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E. Schoenberg
- Marion Pearsall Professor of Behavioral Science, 125 Medical Behavioral Science Building, University of Kentucky, Lexington KY USA 40536-0086, tel: (859) 323-8175, fax: (859) 323-5350
| | | | | | | | - Brent J. Shelton
- Division of Cancer Biostatistics and Department of Biostatistics, University of Kentucky
| | - Nell Fields
- Project Director, Faith Moves Mountains, Whitesburg, KY
| |
Collapse
|
208
|
Blake JM, Peters SC. The occurrence and dominant controls on arsenic in the Newark and Gettysburg Basins. Sci Total Environ 2015; 505:1340-1349. [PMID: 24565223 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Elevated arsenic (As) concentrations in groundwater and rocks have been found in crystalline and sedimentary aquifers from New England to Pennsylvania, USA. The arsenic geochemistry and water-rock interactions of the Northern Appalachian Mountains and the Newark Basin have been researched at length, however, little is known about arsenic in the Gettysburg Basin. Both the Newark and Gettysburg Basins were formed during the breakup of Pangea, sediment deposition occurred during the Triassic and lithologies are of similar depositional environment. We compile and review the work done in the Newark Basin and collect new samples in the Gettysburg Basin for comparison. The Gettysburg Basin has 18%-39% of rock samples with arsenic concentrations greater than the crustal average of 2 mg/kg, while the Newark Basin has 73% to 95% of rock samples above the crustal average. The strongest controls on arsenic in rocks of the Gettysburg Basin are the relationship between arsenic and iron and silicon concentrations while the strongest controls in the Newark Basin are the relationship between arsenic and iron and organic carbon concentrations. The groundwater arsenic concentrations follow similarly with 8-39% of water samples from the Gettysburg Basin above 10 μg/L and 24-54% of water samples from the Newark Basin above 10 μg/L. The strongest controls on arsenic in water of the Gettysburg Basin are pH, alkalinity and silicon, while the strongest controls in the Newark Basin are pH and alkalinity.
Collapse
|
209
|
Grant CJ, Weimer AB, Marks NK, Perow ES, Oster JM, Brubaker KM, Trexler RV, Solomon CM, Lamendella R. Marcellus and mercury: Assessing potential impacts of unconventional natural gas extraction on aquatic ecosystems in northwestern Pennsylvania. J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng 2015; 50:482-500. [PMID: 25734824 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2015.992670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a persistent element in the environment that has the ability to bioaccumulate and biomagnify up the food chain with potentially harmful effects on ecosystems and human health. Twenty-four streams remotely located in forested watersheds in northwestern PA containing naturally reproducing Salvelinus fontinalis (brook trout), were targeted to gain a better understanding of how Marcellus shale natural gas exploration may be impacting water quality, aquatic biodiversity, and Hg bioaccumulation in aquatic ecosystems. During the summer of 2012, stream water, stream bed sediments, aquatic mosses, macroinvertebrates, crayfish, brook trout, and microbial samples were collected. All streams either had experienced hydraulic fracturing (fracked, n = 14) or not yet experienced hydraulic fracturing (non-fracked, n = 10) within their watersheds at the time of sampling. Analysis of watershed characteristics (GIS) for fracked vs non-fracked sites showed no significant differences (P > 0.05), justifying comparisons between groups. Results showed significantly higher dissolved total mercury (FTHg) in stream water (P = 0.007), lower pH (P = 0.033), and higher dissolved organic matter (P = 0.001) at fracked sites. Total mercury (THg) concentrations in crayfish (P = 0.01), macroinvertebrates (P = 0.089), and predatory macroinvertebrates (P = 0.039) were observed to be higher for fracked sites. A number of positive correlations between amount of well pads within a watershed and THg in crayfish (r = 0.76, P < 0.001), THg in predatory macroinvertebrates (r = 0.71, P < 0.001), and THg in brook trout (r = 0.52, P < 0.01) were observed. Stream-water microbial communities within the Deltaproteobacteria also shared a positive correlation with FTHg and to the number of well pads, while stream pH (r = -0.71, P < 0.001), fish biodiversity (r = -0.60, P = 0.02), and macroinvertebrate taxa richness (r = -0.60, P = 0.01) were negatively correlated with the number of well pads within a watershed. Further investigation is needed to better elucidate relationships and pathways of observed differences in stream water chemistry, biodiversity, and Hg bioaccumulation, however, initial findings suggest Marcellus shale natural gas exploration is having an effect on aquatic ecosystems.
Collapse
|
210
|
Lampe DJ, Stolz JF. Current perspectives on unconventional shale gas extraction in the Appalachian Basin. J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng 2015; 50:434-446. [PMID: 25734820 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2015.992653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The Appalachian Basin is home to three major shales, the Upper Devonian, Marcellus, and Utica. Together, they contain significant quantities of tight oil, gas, and mixed hydrocarbons. The Marcellus alone is estimated to contain upwards of 500 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. The extraction of these deposits is facilitated by a combination of horizontal drilling and slick water stimulation (e.g., hydraulic fracturing) or "fracking." The process of fracking requires large volumes of water, proppant, and chemicals as well as a large well pad (3-7 acres) and an extensive network of gathering and transmission pipelines. Drilling can generate about 1,000 tons of drill cuttings depending on the depth of the formation and the length of the horizontal bore. The flowback and produced waters that return to the surface during production are high in total dissolved solids (TDS, 60,000-350,000 mg L(-1)) and contain halides (e.g., chloride, bromide, fluoride), strontium, barium, and often naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) as well as organics. The condensate tanks used to store these fluids can off gas a plethora of volatile organic compounds. The waste water, with its high TDS may be recycled, treated, or disposed of through deep well injection. Where allowed, open impoundments used for recycling are a source of air borne contamination as they are often aerated. The gas may be "dry" (mostly methane) or "wet," the latter containing a mixture of light hydrocarbons and liquids that need to be separated from the methane. Although the wells can produce significant quantities of natural gas, from 2-7 bcf, their initial decline rates are significant (50-75%) and may cease to be economic within a few years. This review presents an overview of unconventional gas extraction highlighting the environmental impacts and challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Lampe
- a Department of Biological Sciences , Duquesne University , Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania , USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
211
|
Alawattegama SK, Kondratyuk T, Krynock R, Bricker M, Rutter JK, Bain DJ, Stolz JF. Well water contamination in a rural community in southwestern Pennsylvania near unconventional shale gas extraction. J Environ Sci Health A Tox Hazard Subst Environ Eng 2015; 50:516-28. [PMID: 25734827 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2015.992684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Reports of ground water contamination in a southwestern Pennsylvania community coincided with unconventional shale gas extraction activities that started late 2009. Residents participated in a survey and well water samples were collected and analyzed. Available pre-drill and post-drill water test results and legacy operations (e.g., gas and oil wells, coal mining) were reviewed. Fifty-six of the 143 respondents indicated changes in water quality or quantity while 63 respondents reported no issues. Color change (brown, black, or orange) was the most common (27 households). Well type, when known, was rotary or cable tool, and depths ranged from 19 to 274 m. Chloride, sulfate, nitrate, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese and strontium were commonly found, with 25 households exceeding the secondary maximum contaminate level (SMCL) for manganese. Methane was detected in 14 of the 18 houses tested. The 26 wells tested for total coliforms (2 positives) and E. coli (1 positive) indicated that septic contamination was not a factor. Repeated sampling of two wells in close proximity (204 m) but drawing from different depths (32 m and 54 m), revealed temporal variability. Since 2009, 65 horizontal wells were drilled within a 4 km (2.5 mile) radius of the community, each well was stimulated on average with 3.5 million gal of fluids and 3.2 million lbs of proppant. PA DEP cited violations included an improperly plugged well and at least one failed well casing. This study underscores the need for thorough analyses of data, documentation of legacy activity, pre-drill testing, and long term monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shyama K Alawattegama
- a Center for Environmental Research and Education , Duquesne University , Pittsburgh , Pennsylvania , USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
212
|
Hall MT, Huebner RA, Sears JS, Posze L, Willauer T, Oliver J. Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams in Rural Appalachia: Implementation and Outcomes. Child Welfare 2015; 94:119-138. [PMID: 26827479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams (START) model is designed for families with co-occurring substance use and child maltreatment. This study describes the implementation and outcomes of START in a rural Appalachian county with high rates of poverty, non-medical prescription drug use, and child maltreatment. Despite a severely limited addiction treatment infrastructure at baseline, children served by START were less likely to experience recurrence of child abuse or neglect within 6 months or re-enter foster care at 12 months compared with a matched control group.
Collapse
|
213
|
Ruhl LS, Dwyer GS, Hsu-Kim H, Hower JC, Vengosh A. Boron and strontium isotopic characterization of coal combustion residuals: validation of new environmental tracers. Environ Sci Technol 2014; 48:14790-14798. [PMID: 25417938 DOI: 10.1021/es503746v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In the U.S., coal fired power plants produce over 136 million tons of coal combustion residuals (CCRs) annually. CCRs are enriched in toxic elements, and their leachates can have significant impacts on water quality. Here we report the boron and strontium isotopic ratios of leaching experiments on CCRs from a variety of coal sources (Appalachian, Illinois, and Powder River Basins). CCR leachates had a mostly negative δ(11)B, ranging from -17.6 to +6.3‰, and (87)Sr/(86)Sr ranging from 0.70975 to 0.71251. Additionally, we utilized these isotopic ratios for tracing CCR contaminants in different environments: (1) the 2008 Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) coal ash spill affected waters; (2) CCR effluents from power plants in Tennessee and North Carolina; (3) lakes and rivers affected by CCR effluents in North Carolina; and (4) porewater extracted from sediments in lakes affected by CCRs. The boron isotopes measured in these environments had a distinctive negative δ(11)B signature relative to background waters. In contrast (87)Sr/(86)Sr ratios in CCRs were not always exclusively different from background, limiting their use as a CCR tracer. This investigation demonstrates the validity of the combined geochemical and isotopic approach as a unique and practical identification method for delineating and evaluating the environmental impact of CCRs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura S Ruhl
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Little Rock, Arkansas 72204, United States
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
214
|
McDonnell TC, Sullivan TJ, Hessburg PF, Reynolds KM, Povak NA, Cosby BJ, Jackson W, Salter RB. Steady-state sulfur critical loads and exceedances for protection of aquatic ecosystems in the U.S. Southern Appalachian Mountains. J Environ Manage 2014; 146:407-419. [PMID: 25135004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2014.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2014] [Revised: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Atmospherically deposited sulfur (S) causes stream water acidification throughout the eastern U.S. Southern Appalachian Mountain (SAM) region. Acidification has been linked with reduced fitness and richness of aquatic species and changes to benthic communities. Maintaining acid-base chemistry that supports native biota depends largely on balancing acidic deposition with the natural resupply of base cations. Stream water acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) is maintained by base cations that mostly originate from weathering of surrounding lithologies. When ambient atmospheric S deposition exceeds the critical load (CL) an ecosystem can tolerate, stream water chemistry may become lethal to biota. This work links statistical predictions of ANC and base cation weathering for streams and watersheds of the SAM region with a steady-state model to estimate CLs and exceedances. Results showed that 20.1% of the total length of study region streams displayed ANC <100 μeq∙L(-1), a level at which effects to biota may be anticipated; most were 4th or lower order streams. Nearly one-third of the stream length within the study region exhibited CLs of S deposition <50 meq∙m(-2)∙yr(-1), which is less than the regional average S deposition of 60 meq∙m(-2)∙yr(-1). Owing to their geologic substrates, relatively high elevation, and cool and moist forested conditions, the percentage of stream length in exceedance was highest for mountain wilderness areas and in national parks, and lowest for privately owned valley bottom land. Exceedance results were summarized by 12-digit hydrologic unit code (subwatershed) for use in developing management goals and policy objectives, and for long-term monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Todd C McDonnell
- E&S Environmental Chemistry Inc., P.O Box 609, Corvallis, OR 97339-0609, USA.
| | - Timothy J Sullivan
- E&S Environmental Chemistry Inc., P.O Box 609, Corvallis, OR 97339-0609, USA.
| | - Paul F Hessburg
- USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 1133 North Western Ave., Wenatchee, WA 98801, USA.
| | - Keith M Reynolds
- USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
| | - Nicholas A Povak
- USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 1133 North Western Ave., Wenatchee, WA 98801, USA.
| | - Bernard J Cosby
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA.
| | - William Jackson
- USDA Forest Service, 160A Zillicoa St., Asheville, NC 28801, USA.
| | - R Brion Salter
- USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station, Forestry Sciences Laboratory, 1133 North Western Ave., Wenatchee, WA 98801, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
215
|
Rosner D. Blowing the lid off Mountaintops. Milbank Q 2014; 92:648-51. [PMID: 25492597 DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.12085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
|
216
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Negative outcomes of stroke are associated with poorer quality of life (QoL) and impact stroke recovery. The purpose of this study was to characterize QoL and loneliness in a sample of rural Appalachian stroke survivors within 1 year of stroke. METHODS Using mail survey methodology, survey data were collected from 121 ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke survivors living in West Virginia using 13 subscales from the Neuro-QOL survey and the three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. Statistical Package for Social Sciences v. 20 was used to conduct descriptive, comparative, and predictive analyses. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess explanatory value of loneliness for QoL domains while controlling for comorbidities. RESULTS Participants who were discharged to a nursing home had poorer QoL when compared with those who were discharged to home. Stroke survivors who continued to smoke were less satisfied with social roles and reported higher mean loneliness and depression scores. History of psychological problems negatively correlated with all QoL domains and loneliness scores. Loneliness predicted poorer QoL even when controlling for age, gender, and significant comorbidities. CONCLUSION Nurses need to assess for loneliness, include loneliness in care planning, and implement smoking cessation and cognitive behavioral interventions. Interventions that target loneliness for stroke survivors could potentially diminish psychological sequelae after stroke and enhance QoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurie Theeke
- Questions or comments about this article may be directed to Laurie Theeke, PhD FNP-BC GCNS-BC, at . She is an Associate Professor, West Virginia University (WVU) School of Nursing, Morgantown, WV. Patricia Horstman, RN MSN NEA-BC, is Director, Clinical Program Development, WVU Healthcare, Morgantown, WV. Jennifer Mallow, PhD FNP-BC, is Assistant Professor, WVU School of Nursing, Morgantown, WV. Noelle Lucke-Wold, BSN RN, is Student, WVU School of Nursing, Morgantown, WV. Stacey Culp, PhD, is Research Assistant Professor, WVU Healthcare, Morgantown, WV. Jennifer Domico, RN CCRP, is Nurse Clinician, WVU Healthcare, Morgantown, WV. Taura Barr, PhD RN, is Assistant Professor, WVU School of Nursing and Emergency Medicine, Morgantown, WV
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
217
|
Luanpitpong S, Chen M, Knuckles T, Wen S, Luo J, Ellis E, Hendryx M, Rojanasakul Y. Appalachian mountaintop mining particulate matter induces neoplastic transformation of human bronchial epithelial cells and promotes tumor formation. Environ Sci Technol 2014; 48:12912-9. [PMID: 25347054 PMCID: PMC4224494 DOI: 10.1021/es504263u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest that living near mountaintop coal mining (MTM) activities is one of the contributing factors for high lung cancer incidence. The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term carcinogenic potential of MTM particulate matter (PMMTM) exposure on human bronchial epithelial cells. Our results show that chronic exposure (3 months) to noncytotoxic, physiological relevant concentration (1 μg/mL) of PMMTM, but not control particle PMCON, induced neoplastic transformation, accelerated cell proliferation, and enhanced cell migration of the exposed lung cells. Xenograft transplantation of the PMMTM-exposed cells in mice caused no apparent tumor formation, but promoted tumor growth of human lung carcinoma H460 cells, suggesting the tumor-promoting effect of PMMTM. Chronic exposure to the main inorganic chemical constituent of PMMTM, molybdenum but not silica, similarly induced cell transformation and tumor promotion, suggesting the contribution of molybdenum, at least in part, in the PMMTM effects. These results provide new evidence for the carcinogenic potential of PMMTM and support further risk assessment and implementation of exposure control for PMMTM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudjit Luanpitpong
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia
University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
- Mary
Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia
University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
- Siriraj
Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
- E-mail: . Tel: 304 293 1483. Fax: 304 293 2576
| | - Michael Chen
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia
University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
- Mary
Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia
University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
| | - Travis Knuckles
- Center
for Cardiovascular and Respiratory Science, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
| | - Sijin Wen
- Department
of Biostatistics, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
| | - Juhua Luo
- School
of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Emily Ellis
- Animal
Models
and Imaging Facility, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
| | - Michael Hendryx
- School
of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Yon Rojanasakul
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia
University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
- Mary
Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia
University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26506, United States
| |
Collapse
|
218
|
L Richards S, G Balanay JA, W Harris J. Effectiveness of permethrin-treated clothing to prevent tick exposure in foresters in the central Appalachian region of the USA. Int J Environ Health Res 2014; 25:453-62. [PMID: 25290464 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2014.963033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Outdoor workers are at risk from mosquito and tick bites and the extent to which exposures are linked to vector-borne disease is not understood. This pilot study characterizes for ester exposure to mosquitoes and ticks, and assesses effectiveness of permethrin-treated clothing for prevention of tick bites. Foresters (N = 34) from Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia were placed into treatment (permethrin-treated clothing) or control (untreated clothing) groups. Foresters completed questionnaires about work-related tick/mosquito exposure and 454 ticks were collected/identified from May to June 2013. A time-weighted analysis based on information submitted by foresters about time working outdoors showed that control participants received a lower rate of tick exposure (0.15 tick bites/hour; 13 bites/person) compared to treatment participants (0.27 bites/hour; 21 bites/person). However, more control participants (85 %) received at least one tick bite compared to treatment participants (52 %). Outdoor workers should be aware of available protective measures, such as permethrin-treated clothing, that may mitigate occupational risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Richards
- a Department of Health Education and Promotion, Environmental Health Sciences Program , East Carolina University , Greenville , NC , USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
219
|
Pond GJ, Passmore ME, Pointon ND, Felbinger JK, Walker CA, Krock KJG, Fulton JB, Nash WL. Long-term impacts on macroinvertebrates downstream of reclaimed mountaintop mining valley fills in Central Appalachia. Environ Manage 2014; 54:919-933. [PMID: 24990807 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-014-0319-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have documented adverse effects to biological communities downstream of mountaintop coal mining and valley fills (VF), but few data exist on the longevity of these impacts. We sampled 15 headwater streams with VFs reclaimed 11-33 years prior to 2011 and sampled seven local reference sites that had no VFs. We collected chemical, habitat, and benthic macroinvertebrate data in April 2011; additional chemical samples were collected in September 2011. To assess ecological condition, we compared VF and reference abiotic and biotic data using: (1) ordination to detect multivariate differences, (2) benthic indices (a multimetric index and an observed/expected predictive model) calibrated to state reference conditions to detect impairment, and (3) correlation and regression analysis to detect relationships between biotic and abiotic data. Although VF sites had good instream habitat, nearly 90 % of these streams exhibited biological impairment. VF sites with higher index scores were co-located near unaffected tributaries; we suggest that these tributaries were sources of sensitive taxa as drifting colonists. There were clear losses of expected taxa across most VF sites and two functional feeding groups (% scrapers and %shredders) were significantly altered. Percent VF and forested area were related to biological quality but varied more than individual ions and specific conductance. Within the subset of VF sites, other descriptors (e.g., VF age, site distance from VF, the presence of impoundments, % forest) had no detectable relationships with biological condition. Although these VFs were constructed pursuant to permits and regulatory programs that have as their stated goals that (1) mined land be reclaimed and restored to its original use or a use of higher value, and (2) mining does not cause or contribute to violations of water quality standards, we found sustained ecological damage in headwaters streams draining VFs long after reclamation was completed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Pond
- Environmental Assessment and Innovation Division, Office of Monitoring and Assessment Region III, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1060 Chapline St., Wheeling, WV, 26003, USA,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
220
|
Hakala JA. Use of stable isotopes to identify sources of methane in Appalachian Basin shallow groundwaters: a review. Environ Sci Process Impacts 2014; 16:2080-2086. [PMID: 25033440 DOI: 10.1039/c4em00140k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Development of unconventional shale gas reservoirs in the Appalachian Basin has raised questions regarding the potential for these activities to affect shallow groundwater resources. Geochemical indicators, such as stable carbon and hydrogen isotopes of methane, stable carbon isotopes of ethane, and hydrocarbon ratios, have been used to evaluate methane sources however their utility is complicated by influences from multiple physical (e.g., mixing) and geochemical (e.g., redox) processes. Baseline sampling of shallow aquifers prior to development, and measurement of additional geochemical indicators within samples from across the Appalachian Basin, may aid in identifying natural causes for dissolved methane in shallow groundwater versus development-induced pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Alexandra Hakala
- Office of Research and Development, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
221
|
Palmer MA, Hondula KL. Restoration as mitigation: analysis of stream mitigation for coal mining impacts in southern Appalachia. Environ Sci Technol 2014; 48:10552-10560. [PMID: 25133756 DOI: 10.1021/es503052f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Compensatory mitigation is commonly used to replace aquatic natural resources being lost or degraded but little is known about the success of stream mitigation. This article presents a synthesis of information about 434 stream mitigation projects from 117 permits for surface mining in Appalachia. Data from annual monitoring reports indicate that the ratio of lengths of stream impacted to lengths of stream mitigation projects were <1 for many projects, and most mitigation was implemented on perennial streams while most impacts were to ephemeral and intermittent streams. Regulatory requirements for assessing project outcome were minimal; visual assessments were the most common and 97% of the projects reported suboptimal or marginal habitat even after 5 years of monitoring. Less than a third of the projects provided biotic or chemical data; most of these were impaired with biotic indices below state standards and stream conductivity exceeding federal water quality criteria. Levels of selenium known to impair aquatic life were reported in 7 of the 11 projects that provided Se data. Overall, the data show that mitigation efforts being implemented in southern Appalachia for coal mining are not meeting the objectives of the Clean Water Act to replace lost or degraded streams ecosystems and their functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret A Palmer
- National Socio-Environmental Synthesis Center and Department of Entomology, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 27042, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
222
|
Larson LN, Sánchez-España J, Kaley B, Sheng Y, Bibby K, Burgos WD. Thermodynamic controls on the kinetics of microbial low-pH Fe(II) oxidation. Environ Sci Technol 2014; 48:9246-54. [PMID: 25072394 DOI: 10.1021/es501322d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a major worldwide environmental threat to surface and groundwater quality. Microbial low-pH Fe(II) oxidation could be exploited for cost-effective AMD treatment; however, its use is limited because of uncertainties associated with its rate and ability to remove Fe from solution. We developed a thermodynamic-based framework to evaluate the kinetics of low-pH Fe(II) oxidation. We measured the kinetics of low-pH Fe(II) oxidation at five sites in the Appalachian Coal Basin in the US and three sites in the Iberian Pyrite Belt in Spain and found that the fastest rates of Fe(II) oxidation occurred at the sites with the lowest pH values. Thermodynamic calculations showed that the Gibbs free energy of Fe(II) oxidation (ΔG(oxidation)) was also most negative at the sites with the lowest pH values. We then conducted two series of microbial Fe(II) oxidation experiments in laboratory-scale chemostatic bioreactors operated through a series of pH values (2.1-4.2) and found the same relationships between Fe(II) oxidation kinetics, ΔG(oxidation), and pH. Conditions that favored the fastest rates of Fe(II) oxidation coincided with higher Fe(III) solubility. The solubility of Fe(III) minerals, thus plays an important role on Fe(II) oxidation kinetics. Methods to incorporate microbial low-pH Fe(II) oxidation into active and passive AMD treatment systems are discussed in the context of these findings. This study presents a simplified model that describes the relationship between free energy and microbial kinetics and should be broadly applicable to many biogeochemical systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lance N Larson
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
223
|
Chertok IRA, Casey ML, Greenfield K. Approach to addressing prenatal smoking in West Virginia. W V Med J 2014; 110:36-40. [PMID: 25322586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
West Virginia faces health disparities and limited prenatal health resources, especially in at-risk areas. In an effort to augment prenatal smoking cessation resources in at-risk areas of the state, the "Health Education for Prenatal Providers in Appalachia" (HEPPA) based on the ACOG 5As intervention was developed and delivered to healthcare and social service providers in four contiguous counties with limited prenatal care resources to support a consistent message by interprofessional providers. The program evaluation indicated effectiveness in increasing the incorporation of prenatal smoking cessation into providers' interactions with pregnant clients. There is a need for continued and expanded efforts to facilitate access to health resources among various providers working in rural areas of the state.
Collapse
|
224
|
Abstract
Access to health care has been a factor for patients living in isolated mountain regions. The Frontier Nursing service was a pioneer in reaching those patients living in the most remote regions of Appalachia. Geography, demographics, and culture present obstacles for rural residents and health care providers. This article identifies and describes the roles nurses and nurse practitioners played in caring for Appalachian families through a roving Health Wagon in the 1980s and 1990s in Southwest Virginia. Family nurse practitioner Sister Bernadette Kenny was instrumental in bringing care on wheels to rural residents living in the Appalachian mountainous region of southwest Virginia.
Collapse
|
225
|
Rouxel M, Mestre P, Baudoin A, Carisse O, Delière L, Ellis MA, Gadoury D, Lu J, Nita M, Richard-Cervera S, Schilder A, Wise A, Delmotte F. Geographic distribution of cryptic species of Plasmopara viticola causing downy mildew on wild and cultivated grape in eastern North America. Phytopathology 2014; 104:692-701. [PMID: 24915427 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-08-13-0225-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The putative center of origin of Plasmopara viticola, the causal agent of grape downy mildew, is eastern North America, where it has been described on several members of the family Vitaceae (e.g., Vitis spp., Parthenocissus spp., and Ampelopsis spp.). We have completed the first large-scale sampling of P. viticola isolates across a range of wild and cultivated host species distributed throughout the above region. Sequencing results of four partial genes indicated the presence of a new P. viticola species on Vitis vulpina in Virginia, adding to the four cryptic species of P. viticola recently recorded. The phylogenetic analysis also indicated that the P. viticola species found on Parthenocissus quinquefolia in North America is identical to Plasmopara muralis in Europe. The geographic distribution and host range of five pathogen species was determined through analysis of the internal transcribed spacer polymorphism of 896 isolates of P. viticola. Among three P. viticola species found on cultivated grape, one was restricted to Vitis interspecific hybrids within the northern part of eastern North America. A second species was recovered from V. vinifera and V. labrusca, and was distributed across most of the sampled region. A third species, although less abundant, was distributed across a larger geographical range, including the southern part of eastern North America. P. viticola clade aestivalis predominated (83% of isolates) in vineyards of the European winegrape V. vinifera within the sampled area, indicating that a single pathogen species may represent the primary threat to the European host species within eastern North America.
Collapse
|
226
|
Caruso NM, Sears MW, Adams DC, Lips KR. Widespread rapid reductions in body size of adult salamanders in response to climate change. Glob Chang Biol 2014; 20:1751-1759. [PMID: 24664864 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Reduction in body size is a major response to climate change, yet evidence in globally imperiled amphibians is lacking. Shifts in average population body size could indicate either plasticity in the growth response to changing climates through changes in allocation and energetics, or through selection for decreased size where energy is limiting. We compared historic and contemporary size measurements in 15 Plethodon species from 102 populations (9450 individuals) and found that six species exhibited significant reductions in body size over 55 years. Biophysical models, accounting for actual changes in moisture and air temperature over that period, showed a 7.1-7.9% increase in metabolic expenditure at three latitudes but showed no change in annual duration of activity. Reduced size was greatest at southern latitudes in regions experiencing the greatest drying and warming. Our results are consistent with a plastic response of body size to climate change through reductions in body size as mediated through increased metabolism. These rapid reductions in body size over the past few decades have significance for the susceptibility of amphibians to environmental change, and relevance for whether adaptation can keep pace with climate change in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Caruso
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
227
|
Fields-Johnson CW, Burger JA, Evans DM, Zipper CE. Ripping improves tree survival and growth on unused reclaimed mined lands. Environ Manage 2014; 53:1059-1065. [PMID: 24668411 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-014-0261-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
There is renewed interest in re-establishing trees on 0.6 million ha of mining-disturbed lands in the Appalachian mountains of Eastern United States. Many coal-mined lands reclaimed to meet requirements of US federal law have thick herbaceous vegetation and compacted soils which impede tree establishment. Mitigation practices were applied on three mine sites and evaluated for success in enabling planted trees to become established. Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus), hybrid poplar (Populus deltoids × Populus trichocarpa), and mixed Appalachian hardwoods were established using weed control only and weed control with subsoil ripping. Trees were measured in October of 2008 after 5 years of growth. Subsoil ripping increased mixed hardwood survival from 43 to 71%, hybrid poplar biomass index from 1.51 to 8.97 Mg ha(-1), and Eastern white pine biomass index from 0.10 to 0.32 Mg ha(-1). When restoring trees to unused mined sites, subsoil ripping can aid survival and growth to an extent that will result in a valuable forest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Fields-Johnson
- Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Smyth Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA,
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
228
|
Palmer-Wackerly AL, Krok JL, Dailey PM, Kight L, Krieger JL. Community engagement as a process and an outcome of developing culturally grounded health communication interventions: an example from the DECIDE project. Am J Community Psychol 2014; 53:261-274. [PMID: 24567052 DOI: 10.1007/s10464-013-9615-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Community engagement is a process often used in developing effective health communication interventions, especially in traditionally underserved cultural contexts. While the potentially positive outcomes of community engagement are well established, the communication processes that result in engagement with cultural groups are less apparent. The focus on the outcomes of engagement at the expense of describing how engagement occurs makes it difficult for methods to be improved upon and replicated by future studies. The purpose of the current manuscript is to illustrate the process of achieving community engagement through the development of a culturally grounded health communication intervention. We offer practical suggestions for implementing community engagement principles, as well as the benefits and challenges inherent in this approach to research. Key points are illustrated using examples from the DECIDE Project, a culturally grounded intervention for improving communication about clinical trials in the medically underserved Appalachian region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela L Palmer-Wackerly
- School of Communication, The Ohio State University, 3058 Derby Hall, 154 North Oval Mall, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
229
|
Wilson-Kokes L, Skousen J. Nutrient concentrations in tree leaves on brown and gray reclaimed mine soils in West Virginia. Sci Total Environ 2014; 481:418-424. [PMID: 24631603 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Surface mining in Appalachia disrupts large areas of forested land. Federal and state laws require disturbed lands be reclaimed by re-constructing the landscape and replacing soil materials to provide a rooting medium. If insufficient quantities of native topsoil are available, substitute materials derived from the overburden may be used as soil media. This study examined soil and foliar nutrient concentrations of three hardwood tree species on areas where brown and gray sandstone overburden were applied as substitute growth media at the Birch River mine in West Virginia. Soil and foliar nutrient concentrations found in four experimental plots were compared to soil and foliar nutrient concentrations found in a nearby native Appalachian forest. Many foliar nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium were lower in all three tree species on most mine soils compared to trees growing in nearby native forest soils and to tree nutrient concentrations from the literature. Foliar and soil nutrient concentrations in the Brown mine soil were similar to those found in native forest soil, while the Gray mine soil provided significantly lower levels of nutrients. Overall, low nutrient availability in mine soils translates into generally lower foliar nutrient concentrations in trees growing on mine soils. After six years, amended topsoil substitutes and Brown mine soil produced higher foliar nutrient concentrations than Gray mine soil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeff Skousen
- West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
230
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine whether a Web-based cardiovascular health promotion program was associated with changes in self-reported behaviors, attitudes, and biometric indicators in a population of working adults. METHODS Employees (n = 210) were recruited and randomized into either an Internet-based or control condition. Participants completed pre- and postintervention self-report assessments on diet, exercise, smoking, and mental health. Pre- and postintervention biometric screenings were also obtained on blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and hip/waist circumference. RESULTS The intervention was associated with significant improvements in dietary attitudes (P = 0.003; F = 8.83), dietary intentions (P = 0.031; F = 4.72), dietary self-efficacy (P = 0.015; F = 5.97), exercise self-efficacy (P = 0.002; F = 9.51), exercise habits (P = 0.016; F = 5.94), and coping with stress (P = 0.003; F = 8.85) and depression (P = 0.036; F = 4.46). CONCLUSIONS The program showed promise for promoting cardiovascular risk reduction behaviors. These results are consistent with similar Web-based interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diane Deitz
- ISA Associates, Inc., 201 North Union Street, Suite 330, Alexandria, VA. Telephone: 703-739-0880 Fax: 703-739-0462
| | - Royer F. Cook
- ISA Associates, Inc., 201 North Union Street, Suite 330, Alexandria, VA. Telephone: 703-739-0880 Fax: 703-739-0462
| | - Rebekah K. Hersch
- ISA Associates, Inc., 201 North Union Street, Suite 330, Alexandria, VA. Telephone: 703-739-0880 Fax: 703-739-0462
| | - Samantha Leaf
- ISA Associates, Inc., 201 North Union Street, Suite 330, Alexandria, VA. Telephone: 703-739-0880 Fax: 703-739-0462
| |
Collapse
|
231
|
Huntsman BM, Petty JT. Density-dependent regulation of brook trout population dynamics along a core-periphery distribution gradient in a central Appalachian watershed. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91673. [PMID: 24618602 PMCID: PMC3950256 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spatial population models predict strong density-dependence and relatively stable population dynamics near the core of a species' distribution with increasing variance and importance of density-independent processes operating towards the population periphery. Using a 10-year data set and an information-theoretic approach, we tested a series of candidate models considering density-dependent and density-independent controls on brook trout population dynamics across a core-periphery distribution gradient within a central Appalachian watershed. We sampled seven sub-populations with study sites ranging in drainage area from 1.3-60 km(2) and long-term average densities ranging from 0.335-0.006 trout/m. Modeled response variables included per capita population growth rate of young-of-the-year, adult, and total brook trout. We also quantified a stock-recruitment relationship for the headwater population and coefficients of variability in mean trout density for all sub-populations over time. Density-dependent regulation was prevalent throughout the study area regardless of stream size. However, density-independent temperature models carried substantial weight and likely reflect the effect of year-to-year variability in water temperature on trout dispersal between cold tributaries and warm main stems. Estimated adult carrying capacities decreased exponentially with increasing stream size from 0.24 trout/m in headwaters to 0.005 trout/m in the main stem. Finally, temporal variance in brook trout population size was lowest in the high-density headwater population, tended to peak in mid-sized streams and declined slightly in the largest streams with the lowest densities. Our results provide support for the hypothesis that local density-dependent processes have a strong control on brook trout dynamics across the entire distribution gradient. However, the mechanisms of regulation likely shift from competition for limited food and space in headwater streams to competition for thermal refugia in larger main stems. It also is likely that source-sink dynamics and dispersal from small headwater habitats may partially influence brook trout population dynamics in the main stem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brock M. Huntsman
- Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - J. Todd Petty
- Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
232
|
Lilly CL, Bryant LL, Leary JM, Vu MB, Hill-Briggs F, Samuel-Hodge CD, McMilin CR, Keyserling TC. Evaluation of the effectiveness of a problem-solving intervention addressing barriers to cardiovascular disease prevention behaviors in 3 underserved populations: Colorado, North Carolina, West Virginia, 2009. Prev Chronic Dis 2014; 11:E32. [PMID: 24602586 PMCID: PMC3944947 DOI: 10.5888/pcd11.130249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In low-income and underserved populations, financial hardship and multiple competing roles and responsibilities lead to difficulties in lifestyle change for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention. To improve CVD prevention behaviors, we adapted, pilot-tested, and evaluated a problem-solving intervention designed to address barriers to lifestyle change. METHODS The sample consisted of 81 participants from 3 underserved populations, including 28 Hispanic or non-Hispanic white women in a western community (site 1), 31 African-American women in a semirural southern community (site 2), and 22 adults in an Appalachian community (site 3). Incorporating focus group findings, we assessed a standardized intervention involving 6-to-8 week group sessions devoted to problem-solving in the fall of 2009. RESULTS Most sessions were attended by 76.5% of participants, demonstrating participant adoption and engagement. The intervention resulted in significant improvement in problem-solving skills (P < .001) and perceived stress (P < .05). Diet, physical activity, and weight remained stable, although 72% of individuals reported maintenance or increase in daily fruit and vegetable intake, and 67% reported maintenance or increase in daily physical activity. CONCLUSION Study results suggest the intervention was acceptable to rural, underserved populations and effective in training them in problem-solving skills and stress management for CVD risk reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christa L Lilly
- West Virginia University School of Public Health, HSC-S PO Box 9214, Morgantown WV 26506.
| | - Lucinda L Bryant
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Janie M Leary
- Fairmont State University School of Education, Health, and Human Performance, Fairmont, West Virginia
| | - Maihan B Vu
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Thomas C Keyserling
- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
233
|
Easterling LW. Spiritual care with Appalachians: beyond stereotypes. J Pastoral Care Counsel 2014; 68:5. [PMID: 25241483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Stereotypes of Appalachians can persist in our collective imaginations. This article addresses such stereotypes as unfounded. The historical origin of these stereotypes is identified. Alternate images of positive values and characteristics of Appalachian people are presented. Recommendations for spiritual care are outlined consistent with the characteristics of the Appalachian population.
Collapse
|
234
|
Smith LH, Holloman C. Piloting "sodabriety": a school-based intervention to impact sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in rural Appalachian high schools. J Sch Health 2014; 84:177-184. [PMID: 24443779 PMCID: PMC3917678 DOI: 10.1111/josh.12134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2012] [Revised: 03/07/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are the largest source of added sugar in the US diet. In adolescents aged 12-19, these drinks account for 13% to 28% of total daily calories. Compared with other adolescents, those residing in Appalachia have the highest consumption rates of SSBs. METHODS Using a Teen Advisory Council (TAC), a student-designed and student-led intervention was conducted at 2 high schools in a rural Appalachian county. Using repeated-measures models design with Bonferroni correction, data were collected on daily and weekly consumption of SSBs and of water at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 30 days post-intervention. Vending machine surveys were completed. RESULTS The 186 participants reported purchasing SSBs from school vending machines (41.4%), cafeteria (36.5%), and school stores (7.7%). Daily SSB servings decreased from an average of 2.32 (SD = 2.14) to 1.32 (SD = 1.29) (p < .001). Weekly consumption decreased from an average of 4.30 (SD = 2.40) days/week to 2.64 (SD = 1.91) (p < .001). Water consumption increased 19% from baseline to immediately post-intervention. CONCLUSIONS Student-directed efforts to support behavioral change are feasible and effective at affecting individual lifestyle behaviors. Small and manageable changes may lead to net improvements in lifestyle behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laureen H. Smith
- The Ohio State University, 342 Newton Hall, 1585 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, Phone: 614-292-4578, Fax: 614-292-4948
| | - Christopher Holloman
- The Ohio State University, 212 Cockins Hall, 1958 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210, Phone: 614-292-0738
| |
Collapse
|
235
|
Morris AB, Millsaps NK, Mason KQ, Howell JS, Speer JH. Mature beech trees (Fagus grandifolia; Fagaceae) are persistently clonal in coves and beech gaps in the Great Smoky Mountains. Am J Bot 2014; 101:381-388. [PMID: 24491343 DOI: 10.3732/ajb.1300161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
PREMISE OF THE STUDY Angiosperms frequently have mixed sexual and asexual reproductive strategies, which can have significant consequences for population and community structure. Many tree species respond to disturbance by vegetative sprouting over sexual reproduction, but the ability to do so varies within and among species and is poorly studied. We tested the hypothesis that root sprouting in Fagus grandifolia is more important in high-elevation beech forests (extreme environmental conditions), relative to lower-elevation cove hardwood forests (optimal environmental conditions), in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. METHODS Four cove hardwood and two high-elevation beech gap forests were sampled. Fagus grandifolia trees were tagged, mapped, and genotyped at each site using six nuclear microsatellite loci. A subset of trees was cored to determine minimum ages of identified clonal lineages. Relationships between measures of clonal richness, diameter, forest type, and elevation were compared by nonparametric analyses. KEY RESULTS Five of six sites were highly dependent on sprouting; one site was entirely dependent on reproduction by seed. Clonal richness did not differ significantly by forest type or elevation, but differed significantly from previously published work. Tree diameter was significant by elevation and significant between the present study and previously published work. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study in the context of previously published work suggest that relatively recent recruits may be more likely to reflect both sexual and asexual strategies, whereas mature F. grandifolia may be more likely to be the result of persistent clonal lineages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley B Morris
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37132 USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
236
|
Knoll JM, Ridgeway AC, Boogaerts CM, Burket GA. Appalachian Trail hikers' ability to recognize Lyme disease by visual stimulus photographs. Wilderness Environ Med 2014; 25:24-8. [PMID: 24433777 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2013.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne infectious disease in North America. With nearly 2,500 Appalachian Trail (AT) hikers entering the endemic area for as long as 6 months, exposure to the disease is likely. The characteristic exanthem of erythema migrans (EM) should be a trigger for seeking medical treatment, and its recognition in this relatively isolated environment is important. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the ability of AT hikers to identify EM, the exanthem of Lyme disease. METHODS Hikers were administered a photographic stimulus in this Internal Review Board-approved pilot study. Historical hiking data, basic demographics, and self-reported treatment and diagnosis were collected. RESULTS In all, 379 responses were collected by 4 researchers at 3 geographically separate locations at or proximate to the AT from June 2011 to May 2012. Fifty-four percent of respondents (206 of 379) were able to recognize the photographs of EM/Lyme disease; 46% could not. Of those who did recognize EM, 23 (6%) had seen it either on themselves or on another hiker while on the AT. A total of 37 hikers stated that they had been diagnosed with Lyme disease while hiking, and of these, 89% were treated with antibiotics. Thirteen of these 37 hikers (35%) diagnosed with Lyme disease had visualized an embedded tick. Nine percent of all respondents reported they had been diagnosed with Lyme disease by a healthcare practitioner, whether from EM, symptomatology, or by titer. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that hikers are poorly able to recognize the characteristic exanthem of Lyme disease but have a high exposure risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judith M Knoll
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Adena Health System, Chillicothe, OH (Dr Knoll).
| | - Andrea C Ridgeway
- Department of Emergency Medicine, York Memorial Hospital, York, PA (Drs Ridgeway and Boogaerts)
| | - Christine M Boogaerts
- Department of Emergency Medicine, York Memorial Hospital, York, PA (Drs Ridgeway and Boogaerts)
| | - Glenn A Burket
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, PA (Mr Burket)
| |
Collapse
|
237
|
Nguyen D, Gavaza P, Hollon L, Nicholas R. Examination of the use of complementary and alternative medicine in Central Appalachia, USA. Rural Remote Health 2014; 14:2484. [PMID: 24400963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A growing number of people in the USA and worldwide use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM usage has been reported to differ by region. Little is known about the usage of CAM, especially among the Appalachian region population. The aim of this study is to evaluate the usage of CAM among adults in Central Appalachia. METHODS A 23-question survey was distributed to 250 participants seeking free medical care at remote area medical events held in Wise County, Virginia in July 2012 and in Buchanan County, Virginia in October 2012. The questions on the survey addressed various aspects concerning CAM: forms of treatment used, frequency of use, main reasons for using CAM, and where they obtained their CAM therapies. The survey also collected demographic characteristics of the respondents. Subjects were asked to complete a two-page survey while waiting for service. RESULTS A total of 192 (76.8%) responses were useful and complete. About 56% of the CAM users were female and 55% had an annual gross income of less than $20,000. About 49% had used CAM therapies in the past, of which 58% used CAM therapies at least once a month. Respondents used CAM because it worked well (n=52; 27%), had less side effects (n=45; 23%), and was affordable (n=43; 22%). CAM therapies were used mainly to address back pain (n=23; 15.6%), general health and wellbeing (n=22; 14.9%), depression and anxiety (n=11; 7.5%), and general pain (n=11; 7.5%), among others. Having a primary care provider, current level of education, and gross annual income were significantly associated with CAM use (p<0.001). Most respondents (n=94; 85%) were comfortable telling their doctor or other medical personnel about their use of CAM therapies. CONCLUSION The prevalence of CAM usage among people in the Central Appalachia region was high, and higher than the national average. Most respondents were comfortable sharing their CAM usage information with their healthcare providers. More research is needed to further understand the factors underpinning CAM usage by the Central Appalachia population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duc Nguyen
- Appalachian College of Pharmacy, Oakwood, Virginia, USA.
| | - Paul Gavaza
- Appalachian College of Pharmacy, Oakwood, Virginia, USA.
| | - Leah Hollon
- Appalachian College of Pharmacy, Oakwood, Virginia, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
238
|
Johnson JT, Adkins JK, Rieske LK. Canopy vegetation influences ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) communities in headwater stream riparian zones of central Appalachia. J Insect Sci 2014; 14:ieu099. [PMID: 25528753 PMCID: PMC5634051 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieu099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In the eastern United States, eastern hemlock Tusga canadensis (L.) Carriere forests are threatened by the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae, a pest that is causing widespread hemlock mortality. Eastern hemlock is an essential component of forested communities. Adelgid-induced hemlock mortality is causing a shift in forest composition and structure, altering ecosystem function and thereby influencing the arthropod community. Using pitfall traps at three sites, we monitored ground-dwelling arthropods at 30-d intervals in hemlock-dominated and deciduous-dominated forests in central Appalachia over 2 yr. Here, we focus on the ant community (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) collected in the summer months. Ants form a ubiquitous and integral component of the invertebrate community, functioning at various trophic levels as predators, herbivores, and omnivores, and fulfilling important roles in forest ecosystems. We found no difference in overall ant abundance between hemlock-dominated and deciduous-dominated forests but did detect significant differences in the genera Prenolepis between forest types (P < 0.01) and Aphaenogaster across study locations (P = 0.02). Three genera were unique to deciduous forests; one was unique to hemlock forests. Not surprisingly, total formicids and several genera demonstrated temporal differences in abundance, with greater numbers captured in July than in August. As hemlock woolly adelgid-induced mortality of eastern hemlock becomes more pervasive, changes in forest composition and structure are imminent, accompanied by shifts in hemlock associates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan T Johnson
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, S225 Ag North, Lexington, KY 40546-0091
| | - Joshua K Adkins
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, S225 Ag North, Lexington, KY 40546-0091
| | - Lynne K Rieske
- Department of Entomology, University of Kentucky, S225 Ag North, Lexington, KY 40546-0091
| |
Collapse
|
239
|
Mudd-Martin G, Biddle MJ, Chung ML, Lennie TA, Bailey AL, Casey BR, Novak MJ, Moser DK. Rural Appalachian perspectives on heart health: social ecological contexts. Am J Health Behav 2014; 38:134-43. [PMID: 24034688 DOI: 10.5993/ajhb.38.1.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore factors associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in Central Appalachia Kentucky to guide development of a culturally appropriate risk reduction intervention. METHODS Based on community-based participatory research principles, 7 focus groups were conducted with 88 healthcare employees and residents from 6 Appalachian counties. Sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes and sub-themes. RESULTS Participants most frequently attributed CVD risk to behaviors including unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and smoking, and to inadequate preventive care. Intrapersonal, interpersonal, sociocultural, environmental, organizational, and policy level influences on risk were identified. CONCLUSION Comprehensive intervention guided by a social ecological framework is needed to address CVD risk reduction in Appalachian Kentucky communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gia Mudd-Martin
- University of Kentucky College of Nursing, Lexington, KY, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
240
|
Ely GE, Fields M, Dignan M. School-based vaccination programs and the HPV vaccine in 16 Appalachian Kentucky school districts: results from a pilot study. Soc Work Public Health 2014; 29:368-379. [PMID: 24871774 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2013.829761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to describe a pilot study of 16 Appalachian Kentucky school districts designed to gather information about their school vaccination and health education programs in relation to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. School district administrators were contacted by a professional telephone interviewer and asked to participate in a structured interview that also included open-ended questions. Results suggest that few schools have school-based vaccination programs, and of those that do, very few programs include the HPV vaccine. A majority of respondents reported that information leaflets about HPV are available in the schools, whereas few schools include discussions of HPV in their health programs. Almost all respondents reported an excellent relationship with their county health departments, school nurses, and school social workers, although most schools lacked the presence of a school social worker. Implications for social work practice and policy and directions for future research are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen E Ely
- a College of Social Work, University of Kentucky , Lexington , Kentucky , USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
241
|
Zeng Z, Feingold E, Wang X, Weeks DE, Lee M, Cuenco DT, Broffitt B, Weyant RJ, Crout R, McNeil DW, Levy SM, Marazita ML, Shaffer JR. Genome-wide association study of primary dentition pit-and-fissure and smooth surface caries. Caries Res 2014; 48:330-8. [PMID: 24556642 PMCID: PMC4043868 DOI: 10.1159/000356299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Dental caries continues to be the most common chronic disease in children today. Despite the substantial involvement of genetics in the process of caries development, the specific genes contributing to dental caries remain largely unknown. We performed separate genome-wide association studies of smooth and pit-and-fissure tooth surface caries experience in the primary dentitions of self-reported white children in two samples from Iowa and rural Appalachia. In total, 1,006 children (ages 3-12 years) were included for smooth surface analysis, and 979 children (ages 4-14 years) for pit-and-fissure surface analysis. Associations were tested for more than 1.2 million single nucleotide polymorphisms, either genotyped or imputed. We detected genome-wide significant signals in KPNA4 (p value = 2.0E-9), and suggestive signals in ITGAL (p value = 2.1E-7) and PLUNC family genes (p value = 2.0E-6), thus nominating these novel loci as putative caries susceptibility genes. We also replicated associations observed in previous studies for MPPED2 (p value = 6.9E-6), AJAP1 (p value = 1.6E-6) and RPS6KA2 (p value = 7.3E-6). Replication of these associations in additional samples, as well as experimental studies to determine the biological functions of associated genetic variants, are warranted. Ultimately, efforts such as this may lead to a better understanding of caries etiology, and could eventually facilitate the development of new interventions and preventive measures.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Appalachian Region
- CD11a Antigen/genetics
- Cell Adhesion Molecules/genetics
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Chromosome Mapping
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 18/genetics
- Chromosomes, Human, Pair 3/genetics
- Chromosomes, Human, X/genetics
- DMF Index
- Dental Caries/genetics
- Dental Fissures/genetics
- Female
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease/genetics
- Genetic Variation/genetics
- Genome-Wide Association Study
- Genotype
- Glycoproteins/genetics
- Humans
- Iowa
- Leucine Zippers/genetics
- MAP Kinase Signaling System/genetics
- Male
- Phosphoproteins/genetics
- Phosphoric Diester Hydrolases/genetics
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide/genetics
- Ribosomal Protein S6 Kinases, 90-kDa/genetics
- Tooth, Deciduous/pathology
- alpha Karyopherins/genetics
Collapse
|
242
|
Bushardt RL, Whitt FK, Gregory T. Training physician assistants for rural Appalachia: an academic partnership for interprofessional collaboration. N C Med J 2014; 75:53-55. [PMID: 24487763 DOI: 10.18043/ncm.75.1.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Wake Forest School of Medicine and the College of Health Sciences at Appalachian State University are partnering to train physician assistants to practice as primary care providers in medically underserved parts of Western North Carolina. The partnership will also develop interprofessional education and team-based training activities for health professions students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reamer L Bushardt
- Corresponding author: Department of Physician Assistant Studies, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
| | - Frederick K Whitt
- College of Health Sciences, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, USA
| | - Tanya Gregory
- Department of Physician Assistant Studies, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
243
|
Presley CL. Providing and mentoring care in the Appalachian culture. Tenn Nurse 2014; 77:7. [PMID: 24693622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
|
244
|
Kunz JL, Conley JM, Buchwalter DB, Norberg-King TJ, Kemble NE, Wang N, Ingersoll CG. Use of reconstituted waters to evaluate effects of elevated major ions associated with mountaintop coal mining on freshwater invertebrates. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013; 32:2826-2835. [PMID: 24243594 DOI: 10.1002/etc.2391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In previous laboratory chronic 7-d toxicity tests conducted with the cladoceran Ceriodaphnia dubia, surface waters collected from Appalachian sites impacted by coal mining have shown toxic effects associated with elevated total dissolved solids (TDS). The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of elevated major ions in chronic laboratory tests with C. dubia (7-d exposure), a unionid mussel (Lampsilis siliquoidea; 28-d exposure), an amphipod (Hyalella azteca; 28-d exposure), and a mayfly (Centroptilum triangulifer; 35-d exposure) in 3 reconstituted waters designed to be representative of 3 Appalachian sites impacted by coal mining. Two of the reconstituted waters had ionic compositions representative of alkaline mine drainage associated with mountaintop removal and valley fill-impacted streams (Winding Shoals and Boardtree, with elevated Mg, Ca, K, SO₄, HCO₃), and a third reconstituted water had an ionic composition representative of neutralized mine drainage (Upper Dempsey, with elevated Na, K, SO₄, and HCO₃). The waters with similar conductivities but, with different ionic compositions had different effects on the test organisms. The Winding Shoals and Boardtree reconstituted waters were consistently toxic to the mussel, the amphipod, and the mayfly. In contrast, the Upper Dempsey reconstituted water was toxic to the mussel, the amphipod, and the cladoceran but was not toxic to the mayfly. These results indicate that, although elevated TDS can be correlated with toxicity, the specific major ion composition of the water is important. Moreover, the choice of test organism is critical, particularly if a test species is to be used as a surrogate for a range of faunal groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James L Kunz
- US Geological Survey, Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia, Missouri
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
245
|
Mech AM, Asaro C, Cram MM, Coyle DR, Gullan PJ, Cook LG, Gandhi KJK. Matsucoccus macrocicatrices (Hemiptera: Matsucoccidae): first report, distribution, and association with symptomatic eastern white pine in the southeastern United States. J Econ Entomol 2013; 106:2391-2398. [PMID: 24498739 DOI: 10.1603/ec13251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
We provide the first report of Matsucoccus macrocicatrices Richards (Hemiptera: Matsucoccidae) feeding and reproducing on eastern white pine, Pinus strobus L., in the southeastern United States. Until now, M. macrocicatrices had been reported only from the Canadian Atlantic Maritimes, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Entomological holdings of 27 major museums in eastern North America have no historical records for M. macrocicatrices from the southeastern region. However, our field surveys and molecular analyses (DNA barcoding) have resulted in the collection and positive identification of M. macrocicatrices in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia In addition to the new geographic range, M. macrocicatrices is also being associated with dieback and mortality of all diameter classes of P. strobus leading to concern about a potential shift from its historically nonpestiferous presence on the host tree. On P. strobus, M. macrocicatrices was found embedded in cankers or present on top of the bark with necrotic tissue under their feeding area, indicating that they may be creating wounds for opportunistic pathogenic fungi to infest. Further, we found M. macrocicatrices living outside of the epiphytic mats of its symbiotic fungus, Septobasidium pinicola Snell. This study shows that M. macrocicatrices is now widespread in the southeastern United States, with implications for the future survival and regeneration of P. strobus in eastern North America.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Appalachian Region
- Colony Count, Microbial
- Food Chain
- Forestry
- Fungi/classification
- Fungi/physiology
- Genes, Insect
- Geography
- Hemiptera/classification
- Hemiptera/genetics
- Hemiptera/physiology
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Pinus/growth & development
- Pinus/microbiology
- Pinus/physiology
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/metabolism
- RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 28S/metabolism
- Southeastern United States
- Symbiosis
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Mech
- Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green St., Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - Christopher Asaro
- Virginia Department of Forestry, 900 Natural Resources Drive, Suite 800, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Michelle M Cram
- USDA Forest Service, Forest Health Protection, 320 Green St., Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - David R Coyle
- Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green St., Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Penelope J Gullan
- Division of Evolution, Ecology and Genetics, The Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - Lyn G Cook
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Kamal J K Gandhi
- Daniel B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 East Green St., Athens, GA 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
246
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between pre-pregnancy weight and body image concerns and smoking status in late pregnancy. METHODS Participants included 172 pregnant smokers. Pre-pregnancy weight and body image concerns were assessed during first trimester via the Weight Concern Scale and Body Image Concern Inventory. Smoking status was evaluated at third trimester via self-report. RESULTS Logistic regression analyses revealed that weight concerns played a significant role in smoking continuation in late pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Beliefs about weight control properties of cigarettes may play an important role in smoking continuation among pregnant women. These findings suggest assessing weight concerns with pregnant women who smoke in an effort to facilitate successful cessation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Correll
- Department of Bio Behavioral Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
247
|
Innes KE, Flack KL, Selfe TK, Kandati S, Agarwal P. Restless legs syndrome in an appalachian primary care population: prevalence, demographic and lifestyle correlates, and burden. J Clin Sleep Med 2013; 9:1065-75. [PMID: 24127151 PMCID: PMC3778178 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.3084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common and distressing sensorimotor disorder of unknown etiology. While the epidemiology of RLS has been examined in several North American and European studies, research on RLS and RLS burden in poor, rural populations, including those residing in Appalachia, remains sparse. In this study, we investigated RLS prevalence in an Appalachian primary care population and examined the association of RLS to demographic factors, lifestyle characteristics, sleep quality, and mood disorders. METHODS Participants of this anonymous survey study were community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 18 years visiting one of 4 West Virginia primary care clinics. Data gathered included detailed information on sleep patterns, demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and health/medical history; the survey also included questions specific to RLS diagnosis and severity. Response rates were excellent, with 68% of eligible adults contacted returning completed surveys (N = 1,424/2,087). Pregnant women (N = 65) and those with missing data on key variables (N = 142) were excluded from the analyses. RESULTS Of the 1,217 participants included in the final analytic sample, 19.6% (18.2% with symptoms at least once/month) met the 4 IRLSSG diagnostic criteria in the absence of positional discomfort or leg cramps; 14.5% reported RLS symptoms at least once/week and 10.1% indicated symptoms ≥ 3×/week. Excluding respondents with diabetes, kidney disease, or anemia reduced these rates only slightly. Those with RLS were more likely to be older, female, lower income, unemployed, disabled, non-Hispanic white, and less likely to be college educated than those without RLS. Mood and sleep impairment were significantly elevated in those with RLS; after adjustment for demographic and lifestyle characteristics, health history, and other factors, those with RLS remained significantly more likely to indicate a history of depression (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4, 2.6) and anxiety (OR = 1.6, CI 1.1, 2.2), to report sleep impairment both 4 (OR = 2.4, CI 1.6, 3.7) and 7 days/week (OR = 1.8, CI 1.3, 2.4), and a mean sleep duration < 5 h/night (OR = 1.7, CI 1.2, 2.3). These associations increased in both strength and magnitude with increasing symptom frequency (p's for trend ≤ 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Findings of this preliminary anonymous survey study suggest that RLS prevalence is high in this Appalachian primary care population and that RLS is associated with significant burden in terms of both mood and sleep impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim E. Innes
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV
- Center for the Study of Complementary and Alternative Therapies, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Kathryn L. Flack
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV
| | - Terry Kit Selfe
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV
- Center for the Study of Complementary and Alternative Therapies, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Sahiti Kandati
- Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV
| | - Parul Agarwal
- West Virginia University CoHORTS Center, West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Morgantown, WV
| |
Collapse
|
248
|
Lumpkin HA, Pearson SM. Effects of exurban development and temperature on bird species in the southern Appalachians. Conserv Biol 2013; 27:1069-78. [PMID: 23773053 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.12085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Land-use dynamics and climatic gradients have large effects on many terrestrial systems. Exurban development, one of the fastest growing forms of land use in the United States, may affect wildlife through habitat fragmentation and building presence may alter habitat quality. We studied the effects of residential development and temperature gradients on bird species occurrence at 140 study sites in the southern Appalachian Mountains (North Carolina, U.S.A.) that varied with respect to building density and elevation. We used occupancy models to determine 36 bird species' associations with building density, forest canopy cover, average daily mean temperature, and an interaction between building density and mean temperature. Responses varied with habitat requirement, breeding range, and migration distance. Building density and mean temperature were both included in the top occupancy models for 19 of 36 species and a building density by temperature interaction was included in models for 8 bird species. As exurban development expands in the southern Appalachians, interior forest species and Neotropical migrants are likely to decline, but shrubland or edge species are not likely to benefit. Overall, effects of building density were greater than those of forest canopy cover. Exurban development had a greater effect on birds at high elevations due to a greater abundance of sensitive forest-interior species and Neotropical migrants. A warming climate may exacerbate these negative effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather A Lumpkin
- Department of Zoology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706, U.S.A
| | | |
Collapse
|
249
|
Reiter PL, Oldach BR, Randle KE, Katz ML. Acceptability of HPV vaccine for males and preferences for future education programs among Appalachian residents. Am J Mens Health 2013; 8:167-74. [PMID: 24085197 DOI: 10.1177/1557988313505319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Appalachia is a geographic region with several disparities related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, yet little is known about acceptability of HPV vaccine for males among Appalachian residents. HPV vaccine acceptability and preferences for future HPV vaccine education programs were examined among residents of Appalachian Ohio. Focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted with Appalachian Ohio residents between July and October 2011. Participants (n = 102 from 24 focus groups and 5 in-depth interviews) included four key stakeholder groups: health care providers, community leaders, parents with adolescent sons, and young adult men ages 18 to 26 years. Support for vaccinating males against HPV was high among participants, despite low awareness and knowledge about HPV vaccine for males. Participants reported three categories of potential barriers to vaccinating males against HPV: concerns about vaccine safety and side effects, access to care and vaccination logistics, and gender and cultural issues. Participants reported that HPV vaccine was viewed as being only for females in their communities and that receiving the vaccine may be emasculating or embarrassing to males. Participants suggested that future HPV vaccine education programs mainly target parents, include basic information about HPV-related diseases and HPV vaccine (e.g., number of doses, cost), and present the vaccine as having the potential to prevent cancer (as opposed to preventing genital warts). Acceptability of HPV vaccine for males was high among residents of Appalachian Ohio. Future HPV vaccine education programs in Appalachia should address common potential barriers to vaccination and help destigmatize vaccination among males.
Collapse
|
250
|
Snyder AE, Milbrath GR. Description of healthcare needs at an episodic clinic in rural southwest Virginia. Rural Remote Health 2013; 13:2557. [PMID: 24329597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to describe the population served at an episodic clinic in Southwest Virginia to better understand patient needs at a yearly episodic Remote Area Medical (RAM) clinic that provides free healthcare services. METHODS The dataset was compiled retrospectively from 2834 medical records from RAM patients between 1 July 2006 and 31 July 2008. Information was de-identified and manually recorded from paper records. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and compared to pre-existing estimates from the region. FINDINGS The number and type of services rendered at the RAM clinic each year varied greatly, and was dependent on the availability of staff and supplies. Diabetes, hypertension, and other prevalent diseases were reported, and an overwhelming majority (74%) of patients were overweight or obese. In 2008, 62% of patients were uninsured, 44% had no primary care physician, and a majority of patients were diagnosed with hypertension or poorly managed diabetes. CONCLUSIONS Chronic diseases including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis plague the Appalachian region. However, better knowledge of the medically underserved in this region can help address the patient's needs through RAM clinics and other accessible health clinics by increasing patient and physician awareness of available services, decreasing patient waiting time, and improving medical recordkeeping.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey E Snyder
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
| | - Gwyneth R Milbrath
- University of Virginia School of Nursing, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
| |
Collapse
|