1
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Bell K, White S, Diaz A, Bahria P, Sima F, Al-Delaimy WK, dosReis S, Hassan O, Drabarek D, Nisha M, Baptiste-Roberts K, Gwiazdon K, Raynes-Greenow C, Taylor Wilson R, Gaudino JA, da Silveira Moreira R, Jennings B, Gulliver P. Can evidence drive health equity in the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond? J Public Health Policy 2024; 45:137-151. [PMID: 38216689 PMCID: PMC10920204 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-023-00452-3] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Using scoping review methods, we systematically searched multiple online databases for publications in the first year of the pandemic that proposed pragmatic population or health system-level solutions to health inequities. We found 77 publications with proposed solutions to pandemic-related health inequities. Most were commentaries, letters, or editorials from the USA, offering untested solutions, and no robust evidence on effectiveness. Some of the proposed solutions could unintentionally exacerbate health inequities. We call on health policymakers to co-create, co-design, and co-produce equity-focussed, evidence-based interventions with communities, focussing on those most at risk to protect the population as a whole. Epidemiologists collaborating with people from other relevant disciplines may provide methodological expertise for these processes. As epidemiologists, we must interrogate our own methods to avoid propagating any unscientific biases we may hold. Epidemiology must be used to address, and never exacerbate, health inequities-in the pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Bell
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Sam White
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Abbey Diaz
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- First Nations Cancer and Wellbeing Research Team, School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Priya Bahria
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fiona Sima
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, England, UK
| | - Wael K Al-Delaimy
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Susan dosReis
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Omar Hassan
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dorothy Drabarek
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Monjura Nisha
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kesha Baptiste-Roberts
- Department of Public Health Analysis, School of Community Health and Policy, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Katy Gwiazdon
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Center for Environmental Ethics and Law, Vienna, VA, USA
| | - Camille Raynes-Greenow
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robin Taylor Wilson
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - James A Gaudino
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Sciences University and Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Rafael da Silveira Moreira
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Area of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Bruce Jennings
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Pauline Gulliver
- Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Edward Ford Building (A27), Camperdown, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- Section of Social and Community Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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2
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Guan Z. Maximum approximate likelihood estimation in accelerated failure time model for interval-censored data. Stat Med 2023; 42:4886-4896. [PMID: 37652042 DOI: 10.1002/sim.9893] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The approximate Bernstein polynomial model, a mixture of beta distributions, is applied to obtain maximum likelihood estimates of the regression coefficients, the baseline density and the survival functions in an accelerated failure time model based on interval censored data including current status data. The estimators of the regression coefficients and the underlying baseline density function are shown to be consistent with almost parametric rates of convergence under some conditions for uncensored and/or interval censored data. Simulation shows that the proposed method is better than its competitors. The proposed method is illustrated by fitting the Breast Cosmetic and the HIV infection time data using the accelerated failure time model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Guan
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Indiana University South Bend, South Bend, Indiana
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3
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Stasiłowicz-Krzemień A, Sip S, Szulc P, Walkowiak J, Cielecka-Piontek J. The Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Potential of Leaves and Inflorescences Extracts of Selected Hemp Varieties Obtained with scCO 2. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1827. [PMID: 37891906 PMCID: PMC10604441 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101827] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis sativa, a versatile plant with numerous varieties, holds promising potential for a wide range of biological activity. As raw materials for research, we chose leaves and inflorescences of hemp varieties such as Białobrzeskie, Henola, and Tygra, which are cultivated mainly for their fibers or seeds. The choice of extraction is a key step in obtaining the selected compositions of active compounds from plant material. Bearing in mind the lipophilic nature of cannabinoids, we performed supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) extraction at 50 °C under 2000 (a) and 6000 PSI (b). The cannabinoid contents were determined with the use of the HPLC-DAD method. The antioxidant capabilities were assessed through a series of procedures, including the DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP methods. The capacity to inhibit enzymes that play a role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and tyrosinase was also studied. The dominant cannabinoids in the extracts were cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). The highest concentration of eight cannabinoids was detected in the Tygra inflorescences extract (b). The most notable antioxidant properties were provided by the Tygra inflorescences extract (b). Nonetheless, it was the Henola inflorescences extract (b) that demonstrated the most efficient inhibition of AChE and BChE, and tyrosinase was inhibited the most significantly by the Białobrzeskie inflorescences extract (b). Multidimensional comparative analysis enrolled all assays and revealed that the Henola inflorescences extract (b) showed the most substantial neuroprotective potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Stasiłowicz-Krzemień
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Szymon Sip
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Piotr Szulc
- Department of Agronomy, Poznań University of Life Sciences, Dojazd 11, 60-632 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Jarosław Walkowiak
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Metabolic Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Szpitalna 27/33, 60-572 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Judyta Cielecka-Piontek
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials, Faculty of Pharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland;
- Department of Pharmacology and Phytochemistry, Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants, Wojska Polskiego 71b, 60-630 Poznan, Poland
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4
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Al-Rawi O. Manufacturing dissent: How unhealthy commodity industries subvert public health action against non-communicable diseases. Med Confl Surviv 2023; 39:271-280. [PMID: 37439566 DOI: 10.1080/13623699.2023.2231690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Omar Al-Rawi
- UCL Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care (IEHC), University College London (UCL), London, UK
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5
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Tadjali A, Pan S, Perli E, Keaton T. Clinical presentation of idiopathic CD4 lymphocytopenia. BMJ Case Rep 2023; 16:e254746. [PMID: 37419499 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2023-254746] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
An otherwise healthy man (60s) presented to our emergency department 5 years ago with stroke-like symptoms. Underlying cryptococcal meningitis infection was ultimately discovered leading to extensive workup to rule out underlying malignancy and HIV infection. Results returned negative with the exception of a CD4 count less than 25 /mm3 Several years later, he again presented to the emergency department with fatigue. He was then found to have severe anaemia with underlying Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection involving the bone marrow and a left psoas abscess. After multiple courses of antibiotic therapy targeted towards MAC, the infection persisted due to bone marrow involvement. By diagnosis of exclusion, he was eventually found to have idiopathic CD4 lymphocytopenia. Here we describe this condition, which has the potential to cause significant morbidity, and obligates the need for high clinical suspicion for timely diagnosis to enhance life quality and outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armand Tadjali
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Sharon Pan
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Elias Perli
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Toni Keaton
- Department of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Sciences Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
- Department of Medicine, Catholic Health Initiatives Saint Joseph Health, Bryan, Texas, USA
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6
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Samuel S, Michael M, Tadros M. Should gastroenterologists prescribe cannabis? The highs, the lows and the unknowns. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:4210-4230. [PMID: 37449231 PMCID: PMC10336994 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i18.4210] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is a drug extracted from the Cannabis plant known for its psychotropic and medicinal properties. It has been used for healing purposes during ancient times, although its psychoactive components led to its restricted use in medicine. Nonetheless, cannabis is found to have modulatory effects on the endocannabinoid system exhibiting its medicinal role in the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Emerging animal and human studies demonstrate the influential effects of cannabis on a variety of GI diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, motility disorders and GI malignancies. It also has a regulatory role in GI symptoms including nausea and vomiting, anorexia, weight gain, abdominal pain, among others. However, both its acute and chronic use can lead to undesirable side effects such as dependency and addiction, cognitive impairment and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. We will discuss the role of cannabis in the GI system as well as dosing strategies to help guide gastroenterologists to assess its efficacy and provide patient counseling before prescription of medical marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Samuel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
| | - Mark Michael
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
| | - Micheal Tadros
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
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7
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van Zandwijk N, Marshall HM, Fong KM. Lung cancer: Removing toxic dust from our environment. Respirology 2023; 28:511-512. [PMID: 37105901 DOI: 10.1111/resp.14512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nico van Zandwijk
- Department of Cell and Molecular Therapies, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital/Sydney Local Health District, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Henry M Marshall
- The Prince Charles Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kwun M Fong
- The Prince Charles Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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8
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Ahmad H, Zia B, Husain H, Husain A. Recent Advances in PROTAC-Based Antiviral Strategies. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020270. [PMID: 36851148 PMCID: PMC9958553 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous mysteries of cell and molecular biology have been resolved through extensive research into intracellular processes, which has also resulted in the development of innovative technologies for the treatment of infectious and non-infectious diseases. Some of the deadliest diseases, accounting for a staggering number of deaths, have been caused by viruses. Conventional antiviral therapies have been unable to achieve a feat in combating viral infections. As a result, the healthcare system has come under tremendous pressure globally. Therefore, there is an urgent need to discover and develop newer therapeutic approaches against viruses. One such innovative approach that has recently garnered attention in the research world and can be exploited for developing antiviral therapeutic strategies is the PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTAC) technology, in which heterobifunctional compounds are employed for the selective degradation of target proteins by the intracellular protein degradation machinery. This review covers the most recent advancements in PROTAC technology, its diversity and mode of action, and how it can be applied to open up new possibilities for creating cutting-edge antiviral treatments and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haleema Ahmad
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Bushra Zia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Hashir Husain
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Afzal Husain
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
- Correspondence:
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9
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Cosentino F, Marino A, Anile L, Moscatt V, Gussio M, Boscia V, Bruno R, Nunnari G, Pulvirenti A, Privitera GF, Cacopardo BS, Ceccarelli M, Celesia BM. Long-Term Survivors in a Cohort of People Living with HIV Diagnosed between 1985 and 1994: Predictive Factors Associated with More Than 25 Years of Survival. Infect Dis Rep 2023; 15:70-83. [PMID: 36826348 DOI: 10.3390/idr15010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the mortality rate among individuals diagnosed during the pre-Highly Active Antiretroviral Treatment era has been substantial, a considerable number of them survived. Our study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of HIV long-term survivors in a cohort of People Living with HIV diagnosed between 1985 and 1994 and to speculate about potential predictive factors associated to long survival. This is a retrospective single-center study. Subjects surviving more than 300 months (25 years) from HIV diagnosis were defined as Long Term Survivors. Overall, 210 subjects were enrolled. More than 75.24% of the included people living with HIV were males, with a median age of 28 years (IQR 25-34). The prevalent risk factors for HIV infection were injection drug use (47.62%), followed by unprotected sex among heterosexual individuals (23.81%). Ninety-three individuals (44.29%) could be defined as LTS with a median (IQR) survival of 333 (312-377) months. A hazard ratio of 12.45 (95% CI 7.91-19.59) was found between individuals who were exposed to Highly Active AntiRetroviral Treatment (HAART) and individuals who were not, with the latter being at greater risk of death. The availability and accessibility of effective antiretroviral therapy for people living with HIV remain the cornerstone of survival.
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10
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Brierley SM, Greenwood-Van Meerveld B, Sarnelli G, Sharkey KA, Storr M, Tack J. Targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of abdominal pain in irritable bowel syndrome. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:5-25. [PMID: 36168049 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00682-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The management of visceral pain in patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction, notably irritable bowel syndrome, presents a considerable clinical challenge, with few available treatment options. Patients are increasingly using cannabis and cannabinoids to control abdominal pain. Cannabis acts on receptors of the endocannabinoid system, an endogenous system of lipid mediators that regulates gastrointestinal function and pain processing pathways in health and disease. The endocannabinoid system represents a logical molecular therapeutic target for the treatment of pain in irritable bowel syndrome. Here, we review the physiological and pathophysiological functions of the endocannabinoid system with a focus on the peripheral and central regulation of gastrointestinal function and visceral nociception. We address the use of cannabinoids in pain management, comparing them to other treatment modalities, including opioids and neuromodulators. Finally, we discuss emerging therapeutic candidates targeting the endocannabinoid system for the treatment of pain in irritable bowel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart M Brierley
- Visceral Pain Research Group, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.,Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Keith A Sharkey
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. .,Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. .,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Martin Storr
- Department of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.,Zentrum für Endoskopie, Starnberg, Germany
| | - Jan Tack
- Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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11
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Auer S, Arrazola J, Masters A, Nguyen K, Fine A. Enhancing the Applied Epidemiology Workforce: The Impact of the 2021 Epidemiology Capacity Assessment on CSTE's Workforce Priorities. J Public Health Manag Pract 2023; 29:77-81. [PMID: 36322024 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000001657] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) conducted the seventh Epidemiology Capacity Assessment (ECA) from January to April 2021 in state and territorial health departments. The ECA serves to enumerate the applied epidemiology workforce and evaluate workforce capacity across the nation. The results of the ECA demonstrated a need for additional epidemiologists across jurisdictions and challenges of maintaining a trained workforce and improving public health infrastructure. The results of the ECA serve as the foundation for CSTE's workforce priorities, which focus on transforming applied epidemiology by promoting the field as a career opportunity, recruitment, and retention strategies, upskilling the workforce, and enhancing infrastructure. CSTE has outlined current and future workforce priorities, and these priorities contribute to a larger strategy to transform the field and enhance applied epidemiology capacity nationwide. This report describes the programmatic actions taken by CSTE in response to the results of the 2021 ECA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Auer
- Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE), Atlanta, Georgia
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12
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Sánchez NF, Kennedy L, Spigner ST, Hartman AW, Sánchez JP, Callahan EJ. LGBTQ+ Worker Protections: Implications for Academic Medicine Today and in the Future. Acad Med 2022; 97:1597-1604. [PMID: 35320123 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000004672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Supreme Court's 2020 ruling prohibiting workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity ( Bostock v Clayton County ) offers new legal protections for LGBTQ+ employees and allies and new opportunities for academic medicine to advance LGBTQ+ inclusion at their institutions. In this perspective piece, the authors examine the history of LGBTQ+ community recognition, tolerance, protections, and ongoing inclusion and the advocacy efforts led by LGBTQ+ patients, community activists, and medical colleagues. They also examine the current limitations of the court's ruling and recommend future actions to advance workplace and health equity. While recent advancements in equality have not erased chronic barriers to inclusion and advancement, they can pave the way for leaders in research, education, and clinical care to shape national health guidelines and policies that impact the health of all Americans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson F Sánchez
- N.F. Sánchez is associate professor, Clinical Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4641-3041
| | - Lydia Kennedy
- L. Kennedy is senior director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Sabina T Spigner
- S.T. Spigner is a third-year medical student, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5662-5198
| | - A Wesley Hartman
- A.W. Hartman is staff attorney, KIND Medical-Legal Partnership, Austin, Texas
| | - John P Sánchez
- J.P. Sánchez is executive associate vice chancellor, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Edward J Callahan
- E.J. Callahan is professor emeritus, Department of Family and Community Medicine, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, California
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Pise-masison CA, Franchini G. Hijacking Host Immunity by the Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type-1: Implications for Therapeutic and Preventive Vaccines. Viruses 2022; 14:2084. [DOI: 10.3390/v14102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human T-cell Leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1) causes adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and other inflammatory diseases. High viral DNA burden (VL) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells is a documented risk factor for ATLL and HAM/TSP, and patients with HAM/TSP have a higher VL in cerebrospinal fluid than in peripheral blood. VL alone is not sufficient to differentiate symptomatic patients from healthy carriers, suggesting the importance of other factors, including host immune response. HTLV-1 infection is life-long; CD4+-infected cells are not eradicated by the immune response because HTLV-1 inhibits the function of dendritic cells, monocytes, Natural Killer cells, and adaptive cytotoxic CD8+ responses. Although the majority of infected CD4+ T-cells adopt a resting phenotype, antigen stimulation may result in bursts of viral expression. The antigen-dependent “on-off” viral expression creates “conditional latency” that when combined with ineffective host responses precludes virus eradication. Epidemiological and clinical data suggest that the continuous attempt of the host immunity to eliminate infected cells results in chronic immune activation that can be further exacerbated by co-morbidities, resulting in the development of severe disease. We review cell and animal model studies that uncovered mechanisms used by HTLV-1 to usurp and/or counteract host immunity.
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14
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Fredericks-Younger J, Fine DH, Subramanian G, Coker MO, Meyerowitz C, Ragusa P, Allareddy V, McBurnie MA, Funkhouser E, Gennaro ML, Feldman CA. The Pragmatic Return to Effective Dental Infection Control Through Triage and Testing (PREDICT) Study: Protocol for a Prospective Clinical Study in the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e38386. [PMID: 35944181 PMCID: PMC9439378 DOI: 10.2196/38386] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dental practice has been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As SARS-CoV-2 infection is transmitted by respiratory fluids, dental practice techniques, which include aerosol-generating procedures, can increase the risk of transmission causing heightened safety concerns for both dental health care workers (DHCWs) and patients. These concerns have resulted in the reduction in patient volume and the available workforce within dental practices across the United States. Standardized methods for COVID-19 triage and testing may lead to increased safety and perceptions of safety for DHCWs and their patients and promote willingness to provide and access oral health care services. OBJECTIVE This study is designed to develop procedures that test the feasibility of enhanced COVID-19 triage and testing in dental offices. It will provide preliminary data to support a larger network-wide study grant application aimed at developing protocols to address safety concerns of patients and DHCWs in a peri-COVID-19 pandemic era. METHODS The feasibility study is being conducted in 4 private dental practices, each of which has a dentist member of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. Participants include the DHCWs and patients of the dental practice. Study procedures include completion of COVID-19 triage, completion of COVID-19 testing (point-of-care [POC] or laboratory-based [LAB] SARS-CoV-2 viral, antigen, and antibody tests based on office designation), and administration of perception and attitude surveys for participating DCHWs and patients of the dental practice over a defined study period. The office designation and the participant's role in the practice determines which testing protocol is executed within the office. There are 4 study groups following 4 distinct protocols: (1) POC DHCWs, (2) POC patients, (3) LAB DHCWs, and (4) LAB patients. RESULTS Data collection began in December of 2021 and concluded in March 2022. Study results are expected to be published in fall 2022. CONCLUSIONS The results of this feasibility study will help identify the viability and functionality of COVID-19 triage and testing in dental practices and inform a larger network-wide study grant application that develops protocols that address safety concerns of patients and DHCWs in a COVID-19 environment. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NTC05123742; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05123742?term=NCT05123742. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/38386.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel H Fine
- School of Dental Medicine, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
| | | | - Modupe O Coker
- School of Dental Medicine, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Cyril Meyerowitz
- Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Patricia Ragusa
- Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Veerasathpurush Allareddy
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Mary Ann McBurnie
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Ellen Funkhouser
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Maria Laura Gennaro
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Cecile A Feldman
- School of Dental Medicine, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
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15
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Cherry RN, Blanchard SS, Chogle A, Santucci NR, Mehta K, Russell AC. Herbal Approaches to Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain. Children (Basel) 2022; 9:1266. [PMID: 36010156 PMCID: PMC9406842 DOI: 10.3390/children9081266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Chronic abdominal pain is one of the most common problems seen by both pediatricians and pediatric gastroenterologists. Abdominal-pain-related functional gastrointestinal disorders (AP-FGIDs) are diagnosed in children with chronic and recurrent abdominal pain meeting clinical criteria set forth in the Rome IV criteria. AP-FGIDs affect approximately 20% of children worldwide and include functional dyspepsia (FD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional abdominal pain (FAP), and abdominal migraine. IBS accounts for 45% of pediatric AP-FGIDs. The pathophysiology of functional abdominal pain involves an interplay of factors including early life events, genetics, psychosocial influences, and physiologic factors of visceral sensitivity, motility disturbance, altered mucosal immune function, and altered central nervous system processing. Treatment approaches are varied and can include dietary, pharmacologic, and complementary medicine interventions, as well as psychosocial support, depending on the many aspects of the disorder and the needs of the individual patient. There is a strong interest in complementary and integrative medicine approaches to pediatric pain from both patients, providers, and families. In this article, we discuss popular herbal treatments typically used in the field of complementary medicine to treat pediatric AP-FGIDs: peppermint oil, Iberogast®, cannabis, fennel, and licorice. While high-quality data are rather limited, studies generally show that these remedies are at least as effective as placebo, and are well tolerated with minimal side effects. We will need more placebo-controlled, double-blind, and unbiased prospective studies to document and quantify efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samra S. Blanchard
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Ashish Chogle
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology, CHOC Children’s, Orange, CA 92868, USA
| | - Neha R. Santucci
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Khyati Mehta
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA 92354, USA
| | - Alexandra C. Russell
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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16
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De Boni RB, Mota JC, Coutinho C, Bastos FI. Would the Brazilian population support the alcohol policies recommended by the World Health Organization? Rev Saude Publica 2022; 56:66. [PMID: 35792799 PMCID: PMC9239545 DOI: 10.11606/s1518-8787.2022056004093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the support of the Brazilian population to the alcohol-policies proposed by the World Health Organization to decrease alcohol harm (specifically: to decrease alcohol availability and advertising, and to increase pricing). In addition, we evaluated the factors associated with being against those policies. METHODS Data from 16,273 Brazilians, aged 12-65 years, interviewed in the 3rd Brazilian Household Survey on Substance Use (BHSU-3) were analyzed. The BHSU-3 is a nationwide, probability survey conducted in 2015. Individuals were asked if they would be against, neutral, or in favor of seven alcohol policies grouped as: 1) Strengthen restrictions on alcohol availability; 2) Enforce bans or restrictions on alcohol advertising, sponsorship, and promotion; and 3) Raise prices on alcohol through excise taxes and pricing. Generalized linear models were fitted to evaluate factors associated with being against each one of those policies and against all of policies. RESULTS Overall, 28% of the Brazilians supported all the above mentioned policies, whereas 16% were against them. The highest rate of approval refers to restricting advertising (53%), the lowest refers to increasing prices (40%). Factors associated with being against all policies were: being male (AOR = 1.1; 95%CI: 1.0-1.3), not having a religion (AOR = 1.4; 95%CI: 1.1-1.8), being catholic (AOR = 1.3; 95%CI: 1.1-1.5), and alcohol dependence (AOR = 1.6; 95%CI: 1.1-2.4). CONCLUSIONS The Brazilian government could count on the support of most of the population to restrict alcohol advertising. This information is essential to tackle the lobby of the alcohol industry and its clever marketing strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel B De Boni
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Cientifica e Tecnológica em Saúde. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Jurema C Mota
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Cientifica e Tecnológica em Saúde. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Carolina Coutinho
- Fundação Getúlio Vargas. Escola de Administração de Empresas. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Francisco I Bastos
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Cientifica e Tecnológica em Saúde. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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17
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Saag M. Wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles: the unprecedented speed of COVID-19 science. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:1569-1577. [PMID: 35446679 PMCID: PMC9169823 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00010.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Saag
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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18
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Pérez-Prieto I, Skafte-Holm A, Jensen JS. High Prevalence of Mycoplasma penetrans in Chlamydia trachomatis Positive Rectal Samples From Men: A Brief Report. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:914874. [PMID: 35770176 PMCID: PMC9234545 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.914874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycoplasma penetrans has gained increased attention in relation to sexually transmitted infections, however, its pathogenic potential and prevalence in different populations remains to be elucidated. Among 293 Chlamydia trachomatis positive rectal samples submitted for lymphogranuloma venereum typing, M. penetrans was detected by PCR in 13.4% of 231 male samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada Pérez-Prieto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Research Unit for Reproductive Microbiology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Axel Skafte-Holm
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Research Unit for Reproductive Microbiology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Skov Jensen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Research Unit for Reproductive Microbiology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Jørgen Skov Jensen,
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Suchard MS, Martinson N, Malfeld S, de Assis Rosa D, Mackelprang RD, Lingappa J, Hou X, Rees H, Delany-Moretlwe S, Goldfein H, Ranchod H, Coetzee D, Otwombe K, Morris L, Tiemessen CT, Savulescu DM. Alloimmunity to Class 2 Human Leucocyte Antigens May Reduce HIV-1 Acquisition – A Nested Case-Control Study in HIV-1 Serodiscordant Couples. Front Immunol 2022; 13:813412. [PMID: 35401581 PMCID: PMC8987441 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.813412] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Enveloped viruses, including the Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV), incorporate host proteins such as human leucocyte antigens (HLA) into their envelope. Pre-existing antibodies against HLA, termed HLA antibodies, may bind to these surface proteins and reduce viral infectivity. Related evidence includes macaque studies which suggest that xenoimmunization with HLA antigens may protect against simian immunodeficiency virus infection. Since HIV gp120 shows homology with class 2 HLA, including shared affinity for binding to CD4, class 2 HLA antibodies may influence HIV acquisition via binding to gp120 on the viral envelope. We conducted a nested case-control study on HIV serodiscordant couples, comparing the frequency of HLA antibodies among highly exposed persistently seronegative controls with those who went on to acquire HIV (HIV-seroconverters). We first performed low resolution HLA typing on 143 individuals who were HIV-infected at enrollment (index partners) and their corresponding sexual partners (115 highly exposed persistently seronegative individuals and 28 HIV-seroconverters). We then measured HLA class 1 and 2 antibodies in the highly exposed persistently seronegative individuals and HIV-seroconverters at early and late timepoints. We analyzed whether such antibodies were directed at HLA specificities of their HIV-infected index partners, and whether autoantibodies or complement-fixing class 2 HLA antibodies were present. Seventy-nine percent of highly exposed persistently seronegative individuals had HLA antibodies; 56% against class 1 and 50% against class 2 alleles. Half of the group of highly exposed persistently seronegative individuals, prior to seroconversion, expressed class 2 HLA antibodies, compared with only 29% of controls (p=0.05). HIV infection was a sensitizing event leading to de novo development of antibodies against HLA-A and HLA-B loci, but not against class 2 loci. HLA autoantibodies were present in 27% of highly exposed persistently seronegative individuals. Complement-fixing class 2 HLA antibodies did not differ significantly between highly exposed persistently seronegative individuals and seroconverters. In multivariable regression, presence of class 2 HLA antibodies at early timepoints was associated with reduced odds of HIV acquisition (odds ratio 0.330, confidence interval 0.112-0.976, p=0.045). These epidemiological data suggest that pre-existing class 2 HLA antibodies were associated with reduced odds of HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda S. Suchard
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Chemical Pathology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Melinda S. Suchard,
| | - Neil Martinson
- Perinatal Health Research Unit (PHRU), University of The Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Johns Hopkins University Centre for TB Research, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Susan Malfeld
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Debbie de Assis Rosa
- School of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Romel D. Mackelprang
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jairam Lingappa
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- Department of Medicine and Department of Paediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Xuanlin Hou
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Helen Rees
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Sinead Delany-Moretlwe
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Hadassa Goldfein
- School of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Heena Ranchod
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Chemical Pathology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - David Coetzee
- Division of Public Health Medicine, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kennedy Otwombe
- Perinatal Health Research Unit (PHRU), University of The Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lynn Morris
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Virology Department, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Caroline T. Tiemessen
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Virology Department, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dana M. Savulescu
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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20
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Kamarinos NV, Vakiani E, Fujisawa S, Gonen M, Fan N, Romin Y, Do RKG, Ziv E, Erinjeri JP, Petre EN, Sotirchos VS, Camacho JC, Solomon SB, Manova K, Sofocleous CT. Immunofluorescence Assay of Ablated Colorectal Liver Metastases: The Frozen Section of Image-Guided Tumor Ablation? J Vasc Interv Radiol 2022; 33:308-315.e1. [PMID: 34800623 PMCID: PMC9531411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To validate an immunofluorescence assay (IFA) detecting residual viable tumor (VT) as intraprocedural thermal ablation (TA) zone assessment and demonstrate its prognostic value for local tumor progression (LTP) after colorectal liver metastasis (CLM) TA. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective study, approved by the institutional review board, included 99 patients with 155 CLMs ablated between November 2009 and January 2019. Tissue samples from the ablation zone (AZ) center and minimal margin underwent immunofluorescent microscopic examination interrogating cellular morphology and mitochondrial viability (IFA) within 30 minutes after ablation. The same tissue samples were subsequently evaluated with standard morphologic and immunohistochemical methods. The sensitivity, specificity, and overall accuracy of IFA versus standard morphologic and immunohistochemical examination were calculated. The LTP-free survival rates were evaluated for the 12-month follow-up period. RESULTS Of the 311 tissue samples stained, 304 (98%) were deemed evaluable. Of these specimens, 27% (81/304) were considered positive for the presence of VT. The accuracy of IFA was 94% (286/304). The sensitivity and specificity were 100% (63/63) and 93% (223/241), respectively. The 18 false-positive IFA assessments corresponded to samples that included viable cholangiocytes. The 12-month LTP-free survival was 59% versus 78% for IFA positive versus negative for VT AZs, respectively (P < .001). There was no difference in LTP between margin positive only and central AZ-positive tumors (25% vs 31%, P = 1). CONCLUSIONS The IFA assessment of the AZ can be completed intraprocedurally and serve as a valid real-time biomarker of complete tumor eradication or detect residual VT after TA. This method could improve tumor control by TA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Efsevia Vakiani
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Sho Fujisawa
- Department of Molecular Cytology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York,NY
| | - Mithat Gonen
- Department of Statistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Ning Fan
- Department of Molecular Cytology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York,NY
| | - Yevgeniy Romin
- Department of Molecular Cytology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York,NY
| | - Richard KG Do
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Etay Ziv
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Joseph P. Erinjeri
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Elena N. Petre
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Vlasios S. Sotirchos
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Juan C. Camacho
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Stephen B. Solomon
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Katia Manova
- Department of Molecular Cytology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York,NY
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21
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Bruiners N, Guerrini V, Ukey R, Dikdan R, Yang J, Mishra PK, Onyuka A, Handler D, Vieth J, Carayannopulos M, Guo S, Pollen M, Pinter A, Tyagi S, Feingold D, Philipp C, Libutti S, Gennaro ML. Biologic correlates of beneficial convalescent plasma therapy in a COVID-19 patient reveal disease resolution mechanisms. medRxiv 2022:2022.02.03.22269612. [PMID: 35132422 PMCID: PMC8820674 DOI: 10.1101/2022.02.03.22269612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the biomarkers of COVID-19 severity have been thoroughly investigated, the key biological dynamics associated with COVID-19 resolution are still insufficiently understood. MAIN BODY We report a case of full resolution of severe COVID-19 due to convalescent plasma transfusion in a patient with underlying multiple autoimmune syndrome. Following transfusion, the patient showed fever remission, improved respiratory status, and rapidly decreased viral burden in respiratory fluids and SARS-CoV-2 RNAemia. Longitudinal unbiased proteomic analysis of plasma and single-cell transcriptomics of peripheral blood cells conducted prior to and at multiple times after convalescent plasma transfusion identified the key biological processes associated with the transition from severe disease to disease-free state. These included (i) temporally ordered upward and downward changes in plasma proteins reestablishing homeostasis and (ii) post-transfusion disappearance of a particular subset of dysfunctional monocytes characterized by hyperactivated Interferon responses and decreased TNF-α signaling. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring specific subsets of innate immune cells in peripheral blood may provide prognostic keys in severe COVID-19. Moreover, understanding disease resolution at the molecular and cellular level should contribute to identify targets of therapeutic interventions against severe COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Bruiners
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Valentina Guerrini
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Rahul Ukey
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Ryan Dikdan
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Jason Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Pathogens, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Pankaj Kumar Mishra
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Alberta Onyuka
- Global Tuberculosis Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Deborah Handler
- Global Tuberculosis Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Joshua Vieth
- Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903
| | - Mary Carayannopulos
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Shuang Guo
- Division of Hematology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Maressa Pollen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Abraham Pinter
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Sanjay Tyagi
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
| | - Daniel Feingold
- Department of Surgery, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Claire Philipp
- Division of Hematology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
| | - Steven Libutti
- Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08903
| | - Maria Laura Gennaro
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103
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22
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Vasiniotis Kamarinos N, Vakiani E, Gonen M, Kemeny NE, Sigel C, Saltz LB, Brown KT, Covey AM, Erinjeri JP, Brody LA, Ziv E, Yarmohammadi H, Kunin H, Barlas A, Petre EN, Kingham PT, D’angelica MI, Manova-todorova K, Solomon SB, Sofocleous CT. Biopsy and Margins Optimize Outcomes after Thermal Ablation of Colorectal Liver Metastases. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:693. [PMID: 35158963 PMCID: PMC8833800 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Thermal ablation (TA) is a non-surgical treatment of cancer that has been used with success in the treatment of colorectal liver metastases (CLM). TA consists of burning the cancer and a rim of surrounding tissue (margin) with a special needle placed in the tumor under image guidance. Despite the technological evolution of TA, tumor progression/recurrence rates remain higher than expected. We present a method that combines tissue and imaging tests performed immediately after ablation to determine whether there is complete tumor destruction or remaining live cancer cells that can cause tumor progression/recurrence. This information can provide guidance for additional treatments for patients with evidence of residual cancer, i.e.,: additional TA at the same or subsequent sitting, or additional chemotherapy and short-interval imaging follow-up to detect recurrence. The presented method proposes a clinical practice paradigm change that can improve clinical outcomes in a large population of patients with CLM treated by TA. Abstract Background: Thermal ablation is a definitive local treatment for selected colorectal liver metastases (CLM) that can be ablated with adequate margins. A critical limitation has been local tumor progression (LTP). Methods: This prospective, single-group, phase 2 study enrolled patients with CLM < 5 cm in maximum diameter, at a tertiary cancer center between November 2009 and February 2019. Biopsy of the ablation zone center and margin was performed immediately after ablation. Viable tumor in tissue biopsy and ablation margins < 5 mm were assessed as predictors of 12-month LTP. Results: We enrolled 107 patients with 182 CLMs. Mean tumor size was 2.0 (range, 0.6–4.6) cm. Microwave ablation was used in 51% and radiofrequency ablation in 49% of tumors. The 12- and 24-month cumulative incidence of LTP was 22% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 17, 29) and 29% (95% CI: 23, 36), respectively. LTP at 12 months was 7% (95% CI: 3, 14) for the biopsy tumor-negative ablation zone with margins ≥ 5 mm vs. 63% (95% CI: 35, 85) for the biopsy-positive ablation zone with margins < 5 mm (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Biopsy-proven complete tumor ablation with margins of at least 5 mm achieves optimal local tumor control for CLM, regardless of the ablation modality used.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND This research prioritization aimed to identify major research gaps in maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (MNCAH) to help mitigate the direct and indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We adapted the Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative methodology. We defined scope, domains, themes and scoring criteria. We approached diverse global experts via email to submit their research ideas in MNCAH and MNCAH-related cross-cutting/health systems area. We curated the research ideas as research questions (RQs) and sent them to the consenting experts for scoring via the online link. For each RQ, the research priority score (RPS) was calculated as an average of individual criterion scores and ranked based on RPS in each area. RESULTS We identified top-ranked 10 RQs in each maternal, newborn, and child and adolescent health and 5 in the cross-cutting/health systems area. In maternal health, indirect effects on care, measures to improve care, health risks and outcomes, and preventing and managing SARS-CoV-2 infection/COVID-19 disease were priority RQs. In newborn health, clinical characterization and managing SARS-CoV-2 infection/COVID-19 disease, mode of transmission and interventions to prevent transmission were the focus. For child and adolescent health, top-ranked RQs were indirect effects on care, clinical status and outcomes, interventions to protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection/COVID-19 disease, and educational institute-related RQs. The cross-cutting RQs were the effects of the pandemic on availability, access, care-seeking and utilization of MNCAH services and potential solutions. CONCLUSIONS We call on partners, including governments, non-governmental organizations, research institutes, and donors, to address this urgent research agenda.
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Soskolne CL, Kramer S, Ramos-Bonilla JP, Mandrioli D, Sass J, Gochfeld M, Cranor CF, Advani S, Bero LA. Toolkit for detecting misused epidemiological methods. Environ Health 2021; 20:90. [PMID: 34412643 PMCID: PMC8375462 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-021-00771-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Critical knowledge of what we know about health and disease, risk factors, causation, prevention, and treatment, derives from epidemiology. Unfortunately, its methods and language can be misused and improperly applied. A repertoire of methods, techniques, arguments, and tactics are used by some people to manipulate science, usually in the service of powerful interests, and particularly those with a financial stake related to toxic agents. Such interests work to foment uncertainty, cast doubt, and mislead decision makers by seeding confusion about cause-and-effect relating to population health. We have compiled a toolkit of the methods used by those whose interests are not aligned with the public health sciences. Professional epidemiologists, as well as those who rely on their work, will thereby be more readily equipped to detect bias and flaws resulting from financial conflict-of-interest, improper study design, data collection, analysis, or interpretation, bringing greater clarity-not only to the advancement of knowledge, but, more immediately, to policy debates. METHODS The summary of techniques used to manipulate epidemiological findings, compiled as part of the 2020 Position Statement of the International Network for Epidemiology in Policy (INEP) entitled Conflict-of-Interest and Disclosure in Epidemiology, has been expanded and further elucidated in this commentary. RESULTS Some level of uncertainty is inherent in science. However, corrupted and incomplete literature contributes to confuse, foment further uncertainty, and cast doubt about the evidence under consideration. Confusion delays scientific advancement and leads to the inability of policymakers to make changes that, if enacted, would-supported by the body of valid evidence-protect, maintain, and improve public health. An accessible toolkit is provided that brings attention to the misuse of the methods of epidemiology. Its usefulness is as a compendium of what those trained in epidemiology, as well as those reviewing epidemiological studies, should identify methodologically when assessing the transparency and validity of any epidemiological inquiry, evaluation, or argument. The problems resulting from financial conflicting interests and the misuse of scientific methods, in conjunction with the strategies that can be used to safeguard public health against them, apply not only to epidemiologists, but also to other public health professionals. CONCLUSIONS This novel toolkit is for use in protecting the public. It is provided to assist public health professionals as gatekeepers of their respective specialty and subspecialty disciplines whose mission includes protecting, maintaining, and improving the public's health. It is intended to serve our roles as educators, reviewers, and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin L Soskolne
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
| | - Shira Kramer
- Epidemiology International, Hunt Valley, MD, USA
| | | | - Daniele Mandrioli
- Cesare Maltoni Cancer Research Centre, Ramazzini Institute, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jennifer Sass
- Natural Resources Defense Council, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Carl F Cranor
- Departments of Philosophy and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Shailesh Advani
- Terasaki Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lisa A Bero
- Center for Bioethics and Humanities, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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Manivannan AC, Devaraju V, Velmurugan P, Sathiamoorthi T, Sivakumar S, Subbiah SK, Ravi AV. Tumorigenesis and diagnostic practice applied in two oncogenic viruses: Epstein Barr virus and T-cell lymphotropic virus-1-Mini review. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 142:111974. [PMID: 34343895 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, seven viruses have been reliably connected to various forms of human cancer: Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), high-risk Human papillomavirus (HPV), Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCPV), Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV1). This mini-review summarizes two of these viruses, EPV and HTLV-1, in terms of their general pathway of infection, the key mechanism of cancer induction, and the prominent technologies used to detect the infections. EBV is the first discovered human oncovirus and HTLV - I is the first human retrovirus and both were discovered from patient with distinct lymphoma clinical condition. Both the viruses can immortalize lymphocytes invitro and lymphomas are common manifestation of majority oncogenic viruses. Lymphomagenesis are discovered in associated with EBV, HTLV-I, Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Kaposi sarcoma - associated herpes virus and hepatitis c virus. Later the undefined mechanism behind the induction of cancer by these viruses was unveiled gradually along with the responsible cofactors and mimicry mechanism. These two viruses contrast in their genetic structure, location of the infection, and latency, yet clinically, they generate similar cancer disorders. The major focus of this study is to brief the mechanism of these two unrelated viral cancer promoting agents on how they simulate a condition similar to lymphoma which may or may not undergo mimicry and cofactor utilization process, handpicked and vital genes behind the transformation mechanism are given accordingly.
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26
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Brites C, Grassi MF, Quaresma JAS, Ishak R, Vallinoto ACR. Pathogenesis of HTLV-1 infection and progression biomarkers: An overview. Braz J Infect Dis 2021; 25:101594. [PMID: 34256025 PMCID: PMC9392164 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2021.101594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection by human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) occurs in lymphocytes, which travel throughout the body, thus affecting several target organs and causing varied clinical outcomes, particularly in populations that are underserved and do not have access to healthcare. However, the mechanism of pathogenesis is not yet fully understood. The TAX and HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper factor (HBZ) proteins maintain viral persistence and affect pathogenesis through cell proliferation and immune and inflammatory responses that accompany each clinical manifestation. TAX expression leads to inhibition of transcription error control, OX40 overexpression, and cell proliferation in adult T-cell leukemia (ATL). OX40 levels are elevated in the central nervous system (CNS), and the expression of TAX in the CNS causes neuronal damage and loss of immune reactivity among patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy (HAM). HBZ reduces viral replication and suppresses the immune response. Its cell compartmentalization has been associated with the pathogenesis of HAM (cytoplasmic localization) and ATL (nuclear localization). TAX and HBZ seem to act antagonistically in immune responses, affecting the pathogenesis of HTLV-1 infection. The progression from HTLV-1 infection to disease is a consequence of HTLV-1 replication in CD4+ T and CD8+ T lymphocytes and the imbalance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The compartmentalization of HBZ suggests that this protein may be an additional tool for assessing immune and inflammatory responses, in addition to those already recognized as potential biomarkers associated with progression from infection to disease (including human leukocyte antigen (HLA), killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, IL-28, Fas, Fas ligand, interferon (IFN)-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and mannose-binding lectin).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Brites
- Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Professor Edgard Santos University Hospital Complex, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ricardo Ishak
- Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Institute of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Virology, Belém, PA, Brazil
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27
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Carvalho MDC, Ribeiro-Andrade M, Melo RPBD, Guedes DM, Pinheiro Junior JW, Cavalcanti EFTSF, Magalhães FJR, Mota RA. Cross-sectional survey for Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans in Fernando de Noronha island, Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 30:e005121. [PMID: 34259739 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612021062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, is zoonotic disease and is one of the most important foodborne parasitic diseases globally. The prevalence in humans is highly variable, being influenced by cultural habits, socioeconomic, and environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in humans on the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco State, Brazil, and to identify the risk factors associated with this infection. The seroprevalence of immunoglobulin G anti-T. gondii antibodies was 50.4% (172/341, 95% CI: 45.2%-55.7%). Factors associated with the infection were consumption of well water or rainwater (odds ratio [OR]: 2.43, p=0.020) and consumption of game meat (OR: 1.80, p=0.026). This is the first study to provide epidemiological information of T. gondii infection among the residents of the Island of Fernando de Noronha, revealing a considerable antibody seroprevalence in this population. This study provides information for the adoption of prevention and control measures in island environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Müller Ribeiro-Andrade
- Setor de Parasitologia e Patologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alagoas - UFAL, Campus A. C. Simões, Maceió, AL, Brasil
| | | | - Dandara Matias Guedes
- Superintendência em Saúde, Administração do Distrito Estadual de Fernando de Noronha, Fernando de Noronha, PE, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFRPE, Recife, PE, Brasil
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28
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Bauby H, Ward CC, Hugh-White R, Swanson CM, Schulz R, Goujon C, Malim MH. HIV-1 Vpr Induces Widespread Transcriptomic Changes in CD4 + T Cells Early Postinfection. mBio 2021; 12:e0136921. [PMID: 34154423 PMCID: PMC8263007 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01369-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The interactions between a virus and its host are complex but can be broadly categorized as either viral manipulation of cellular functions or cellular responses to infection. These processes begin at the earliest point of contact between virus and cell and frequently result in changes to cellular gene expression, making genome-wide transcriptomics a useful tool to study them. Several previous studies have used transcriptomics to evaluate the cellular responses to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection; however, none have examined events in primary CD4+ T cells during the first 24 h of infection. Here, we analyzed CD4+ T cells at 4.5, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h following infection. We describe global changes to host gene expression commencing at 4.5 h postinfection and evolving over the ensuing time points. We identify upregulation of genes related to innate immunity, cytokine production, and apoptosis and downregulation of those involved in transcription and translation. We further demonstrate that the viral accessory protein Vpr is necessary for almost all gene expression changes seen at 12 h postinfection and the majority of those seen at 48 h. Identifying this new role for Vpr not only provides fresh perspective on its possible function but also adds further insight into the interplay between HIV-1 and its host at the cellular level. IMPORTANCE HIV-1, while now treatable, remains an important human pathogen causing significant morbidity and mortality globally. The virus predominantly infects CD4+ T cells and, if not treated with medication, ultimately causes their depletion, resulting in AIDS and death. Further refining our understanding of the interaction between HIV-1 and these cells has the potential to inform further therapeutic development. Previous studies have used transcriptomics to assess gene expression changes in CD4+ T cells following HIV-1 infection; here, we provide a detailed examination of changes occurring in the first 24 h of infection. Importantly, we define the viral protein Vpr as essential for the changes observed at this early stage. This finding has significance for understanding the role of Vpr in infection and pathogenesis and also for interpreting previous transcriptomic analyses of HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Bauby
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher C. Ward
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rupert Hugh-White
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Chad M. Swanson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Reiner Schulz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Goujon
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael H. Malim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Immunology and Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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29
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Smith MY, Bahri P, Gaudino JA, Moreira RS, Danyluk GM, Palevsky SL. The role of epidemiologists in communicating SARS-CoV-2 evidence: a call for adopting standards. Int J Epidemiol 2021; 50:1410-1415. [PMID: 34179978 PMCID: PMC8344488 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Y Smith
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Albany, NY, USA.,Global Drug Safety, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Regulatory and Quality Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Rutgers School of Health Professions, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Priya Bahri
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Albany, NY, USA.,Quality and Safety of Medicines, Pharmacovigilance, European Medicines Agency, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - James A Gaudino
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Albany, NY, USA.,Gaudino Consulting, Portland, OR, USA.,School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Sciences University and Portland State University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Rafael S Moreira
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Albany, NY, USA.,Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Gregory M Danyluk
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Albany, NY, USA.,National Association of County and City Health Officials, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sheila L Palevsky
- International Network for Epidemiology in Policy, Albany, NY, USA.,American Academy of Pediatrics - Section on Epidemiology, Public Health, and Evidence (AAP-SOEPHE), New York, NY, USA
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30
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Hyeon JY, Helal ZH, Polkowski R, Heishima M, Kim J, Lee DH, Risatti GR. Genetic features of Salmonella enterica subspecies diarizonae serovar 61:k:1,5 isolated from abortion cases in sheep, United States, 2020. Res Vet Sci 2021; 138:125-136. [PMID: 34139624 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Salmonella enterica subspecies diarizonae serovar 61:(k):1, 5, (7) (sheep associated S. diarizonae, SASd) is the most common Salmonella serotype identified in sheep flocks. Despite the involvement with animal and human infections, there is limited information regarding virulence profiles of SASds and their antibiotic resistance gene complement, particularly for those circulating in the U.S. In this study, we genetically characterized three SASds, 20-265, 20-269, and 20-312, isolated from sheep placental tissues during an abortion storm affecting a flock in Connecticut during 2020. SASds were the only bacteria isolated from analyzed sheep tissues. The isolates were sensitive to all the antibiotics tested, but all these SASd isolates carry the aminoglycoside resistance gene, aac(6')-Iaa, and a chromosomal substitution in the parC gene. The proportion of pseudogenes (5.3-5.5%) was similar among the isolates, and these SASds carry IncX1 type plasmids. Comparing with the SASds isolates from Enterobase, the three isolates showed an identical genomic virulence profile carrying virulence genes in the conserved set of other SASd isolates except for steC, iagB, iacP, sseI, and slrP genes. In the SNP-based phylogenetic analysis, SASd sequences were grouped into group A-C, and the group C was further subdivided into subgroup C1-C6. The three isolates clustered with other SASd isolates from the U.S. and Canada in subgroup C6. SASd isolates in the identical phylogenetic groups tended to have similar geographical origin. The results of our study did not provide conclusive evidence about which are the genetic traits that trigger SASds to become virulent in sheep, but our data will provide a point for comparative studies of this Salmonella serovar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yeon Hyeon
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Zeinab H Helal
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Robert Polkowski
- Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Mizuki Heishima
- Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Junwon Kim
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Dong-Hun Lee
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
| | - Guillermo R Risatti
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA; Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
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Starling ALB, Pereira SRS, Peruhype-Magalhães V, Coelho-Dos-Reis JGA, Bicalho KA, de Paiva LP, Martins JP, Trindade BC, Labanca L, Faccioli LH, Lambertucci JR, Silva LCDS, Antunes CMF, Teixeira-Carvalho A, Carneiro-Proietti ABF, Gonçalves DU, Martins-Filho OA; Grupo Interdisciplinar de Pesquisa em HTLV. Impact of HIV co-infection on immunological biomarker profile of HTLV-1 infected patients. Immunol Lett 2021; 236:68-77. [PMID: 34087263 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The impact of HIV co-infection on the plasma immunological biomarker profile of HTLV-1 infected patients was evaluated. The plasma levels of leukotrienes and chemokines/cytokines were quantified by ELISA and Cytometric Bead Array. A total of 138 volunteers were enrolled and divided into two subgroups ("HTLV-1(+)HIV(-)" and "HTLV-1(+)(HIV(+)"), which were categorized according to the HTLV-1-associated neurological disease (AS, pHAM and HAM). Reference controls were BD and HIV mono-infected patients. HAM(+) exhibited higher CD4+ T-cell counts as compared to HIV+ mono-infected patients and lower HTLV-1 proviral load as compared to mono-infected HAM(-) patients. AS(+) exhibited higher levels of CysLT, CXCL8/IL-8 and lower levels of CCL5/RANTES as compared to AS(-). Increased levels of IL-6 and TNF with reduced levels of CXCL10/IP10 and CCL5/RANTES were observed in co-infected pHAM(+) as compared to mono-infected pHAM(-). HAM(+) patients revealed an increase in CXCL8/IL-8, CCL2/MCP-1, CXCL-10/IP-10, TNF and a decrease in IL-2 as compared to HAM(-) subgroup.
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32
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Xu X, Bradshaw CS, Chow EPF, Ong JJ, Hocking JS, Fairley CK, Zhang L. Modelling the multiple anatomical site transmission of Mycoplasma genitalium among men who have sex with men in Australia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11087. [PMID: 34045569 PMCID: PMC8160207 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90627-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycoplasma genitalium (M. genitalium) is a recently recognised and important sexually transmitted infection among men who have sex with men (MSM). The role of oral sex, rimming, and kissing on M. genitalium transmission in MSM is unclear. We created four deterministic susceptible-infectious-susceptible epidemic models to examine the role that different sexual behaviours play in transmitting M. genitalium at the oropharynx, urethra anorectum among men who have sex with men in Australia. Our results suggest that oral and anal sex without other sexual practices (model 1) replicate well single site infection at the oropharynx, urethra and anorectum and also multi-site infection. If kissing or rimming are added to model 1 (i.e., model 2–4) no substantial improvements in the calibration of the models occur. Model 1 estimates that 3.4% of infections occur at the oropharynx, 34.8% at the urethra and 61.8% at the anorectum. Model 1 also estimates that the proportion of incident M. genitalium transmitted by anal sex was 82.4%, and by oral sex was about 17.6%. Our findings could provide an enhanced understanding of M. genitalium transmission in MSM, thus providing insights into what sexual practices contribute most to transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianglong Xu
- China Australia Joint Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Catriona S Bradshaw
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eric P F Chow
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jason J Ong
- China Australia Joint Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane S Hocking
- China Australia Joint Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christopher K Fairley
- China Australia Joint Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lei Zhang
- China Australia Joint Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China. .,Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia. .,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. .,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China.
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Khandu L, Dhakal GP, Lhazeen K. Baseline CD4 count and the time interval between the initial HIV infection and diagnosis among PLHIV in Bhutan. Immun Inflamm Dis 2021; 9:883-890. [PMID: 33945664 PMCID: PMC8342208 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION CD4 count is an important predictor of disease progression, opportunities infection, deaths, and to understand the time interval between initial HIV infection to the first diagnosis. However, baseline CD4 count and the time period between initial infection and the diagnosis amongst PLHIV in Bhutan never been evaluated. METHODS This is a retrospective study of the diagnosed PLHIV from the existing data system from January 10 to 30, 2021. Out of 512 reported HIV cases, 488 of those who were more than or equal to 18 years old and had their CD4 count testing within 6 months before initiating ART were considered for analysis. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analyze the characteristics of the study population and relationship were established using the χ 2 Test. We have sought ethics approval and waiver for informed consent as it is the retrospective study of the client's record. The client's confidentiality was ensured by removing all the identifiers. RESULTS The mean CD4 was 345 cells/ml for males and females. Twenty-five percent of the clients had CD4 counts below 200, 30%, between 200 and 349, 25% between 350 and 499, and 20% above 500 cells/ml. A larger number of males showed a CD4 count below 200 cells/ml while more females showed a CD4 count more than 500 cells/ml. The mean time interval between initial infection to the first diagnosis was 4 years in males and females. However, about one-fourth were found to have been infected between 5 and 8 years before diagnosis and less than 10% were diagnosed within less than 1 year of infection. CONCLUSIONS The study revealed a late diagnosis of HIV infection in Bhutan thereby risking the transmission to the community and risk of severe disease and mortality. The upscaling of voluntary counseling and testing, medical screening, and alternative methods like community-based testing including HIV Self Testing for early detection needs to be implemented in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lekey Khandu
- Communicable Disease Division, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Thimphu, Bhutan
| | - Guru P Dhakal
- Department of Medicine, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Thimphu, Bhutan
| | - Karma Lhazeen
- Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Thimphu, Bhutan
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Niimi K, Fujimoto A, Sato K, Enoki H, Okanishi T. Patients With Epilepsy Who Underwent Epilepsy Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic Showed Less Depressive Tendencies. Front Neurol 2021; 12:677828. [PMID: 34017309 PMCID: PMC8129497 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.677828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Our hypothesis in this study was that differences might exist between patients with epilepsy (PWE) who underwent epilepsy surgery before and within the period of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The purpose of this study was to compare results of the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) between PWE who underwent epilepsy surgery before and during the pandemic period. Methods: Participants were PWE who underwent open cranial epilepsy surgery between February 2019 and February 2021 in our hospital. Patients who underwent surgery in the first half of this period, between February 2019 and January 2020, were defined as the pre-pandemic period group (pre-Group) and those treated in the second half, between February 2020 and February 2021, were categorized as the pandemic period group (within-Group). All patients completed the SDS before surgery, and scores were compared between groups. Results: SDS score was significantly higher in the pre-Group than in the within-Group (p = 0.037). Other factors, including age (p = 0.51), sex (p = 0.558), epilepsy duration from onset to SDS score evaluation (p = 0.190), seizure frequency (p = 0.794), number of anti-seizure medications (p = 0.787), and intelligence quotient (p = 0.871) did not differ significantly between groups. Conclusion: SDS score was higher in the pre-pandemic group than in the within-pandemic group, which may indicate that PWE with less-positive outlooks may be less likely to seek medical attention during stressful periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Niimi
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Ayataka Fujimoto
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Keishiro Sato
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hideo Enoki
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Tohru Okanishi
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Seirei Hamamatsu General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
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Brown L, Byrne RL, Fraser A, Owen SI, Cubas-Atienzar AI, Williams CT, Kay GA, Cuevas LE, Fitchett JRA, Fletcher T, Garrod G, Kontogianni K, Krishna S, Menzies S, Planche T, Sainter C, Staines HM, Turtle L, Adams ER. Self-sampling of capillary blood for SARS-CoV-2 serology. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7754. [PMID: 33833246 PMCID: PMC8032656 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Serological testing is emerging as a powerful tool to progress our understanding of COVID-19 exposure, transmission and immune response. Large-scale testing is limited by the need for in-person blood collection by staff trained in venepuncture, and the limited sensitivity of lateral flow tests. Capillary blood self-sampling and postage to laboratories for analysis could provide a reliable alternative. Two-hundred and nine matched venous and capillary blood samples were obtained from thirty nine participants and analysed using a COVID-19 IgG ELISA to detect antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Thirty eight out of thirty nine participants were able to self-collect an adequate sample of capillary blood (≥ 50 µl). Using plasma from venous blood collected in lithium heparin as the reference standard, matched capillary blood samples, collected in lithium heparin-treated tubes and on filter paper as dried blood spots, achieved a Cohen’s kappa coefficient of > 0.88 (near-perfect agreement, 95% CI 0.738–1.000). Storage of capillary blood at room temperature for up to 7 days post sampling did not affect concordance. Our results indicate that capillary blood self-sampling is a reliable and feasible alternative to venepuncture for serological assessment in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lottie Brown
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Rachel L Byrne
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Alice Fraser
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Sophie I Owen
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Ana I Cubas-Atienzar
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Christopher T Williams
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Grant A Kay
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Luis E Cuevas
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | | | - Tom Fletcher
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.,Tropical and Infectious Diseases Unit, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Member of Liverpool Health Partners), Liverpool, UK
| | - Gala Garrod
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Konstantina Kontogianni
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Sanjeev Krishna
- Centre for Diagnostics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Stefanie Menzies
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Tim Planche
- Centre for Diagnostics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Chris Sainter
- Mologic COVID-19 Diagnostics Development Team, Thurleigh, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Henry M Staines
- Centre for Diagnostics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Lance Turtle
- Tropical and Infectious Diseases Unit, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Member of Liverpool Health Partners), Liverpool, UK.,Department of Clinical Infection, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7BE, UK
| | - Emily R Adams
- Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
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Ekenberg C, Reekie J, Zucco AG, Murray DD, Sharma S, Macpherson CR, Babiker A, Kan V, Lane HC, Neaton JD, Lundgren JD. The association of human leukocyte antigen alleles with clinical disease progression in HIV-positive cohorts with varied treatment strategies. AIDS 2021; 35:783-789. [PMID: 33587436 PMCID: PMC7969421 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Treatment (START) and Strategies for Management of Antiretroviral Therapy (SMART) trials demonstrated that ART can partly reverse clinically defined immune dysfunction induced by HIV replication. As control of HIV replication is influenced by the HLA region, we explored whether HLA alleles independently influence the risk of clinical events in HIV+ individuals. DESIGN Cohort study. METHODS In START and SMART participants, associations between imputed HLA alleles and AIDS, infection-related cancer, herpes virus-related AIDS events, chronic inflammation-related conditions, and bacterial pneumonia were assessed. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios for the risk of events among allele carriers versus noncarriers. Models were adjusted for sex, age, geography, race, time-updated CD4+ T-cell counts and HIV viral load and stratified by treatment group within trials. HLA class I and II alleles were analyzed separately. The Benjamini--Hochberg procedure was used to limit the false discovery rate to less than 5% (i.e. q value <0.05). RESULTS Among 4829 participants, there were 132 AIDS events, 136 chronic inflammation-related conditions, 167 bacterial pneumonias, 45 infection-related cancers, and 49 herpes virus-related AIDS events. Several associations with q value less than 0.05 were found: HLA-DQB1∗06:04 and HLA-DRB1∗13:02 with AIDS (adjusted HR [95% CI] 2.63 [1.5-4.6] and 2.25 [1.4-3.7], respectively), HLA-B∗15:17 and HLA-DPB1∗15:01 with bacterial pneumonia (4.93 [2.3-10.7] and 4.33 [2.0-9.3], respectively), and HLA-A∗69:01 with infection-related cancer (15.26 [3.5-66.7]). The carriage frequencies of these alleles were 10% or less. CONCLUSION This hypothesis-generating study suggests that certain HLA alleles may influence the risk of immune dysfunction-related events irrespective of viral load and CD4+ T-cell count.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Ekenberg
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Joanne Reekie
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Adrian G Zucco
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel D Murray
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shweta Sharma
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cameron R Macpherson
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Abdel Babiker
- Medical Research Council, Clinical Trials Unit in University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Virginia Kan
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and George Washington University, Washington DC
| | - H Clifford Lane
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Division of Clinical Research, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - James D Neaton
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jens D Lundgren
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Yeo CB, Yong E, Hong Q, Kwan J, Quek LHH, Pua U, Punamiya S, Chandrasekar S, Tan GWL, Lo ZJ. Outcomes of Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for Arteriovenous Fistula Thrombosis in Singapore: Is It Still Relevant Today? Ann Vasc Dis 2021; 14:5-10. [PMID: 33786093 PMCID: PMC7991696 DOI: 10.3400/avd.oa.20-00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To review the outcomes of catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) for salvage of thrombosed arteriovenous fistula (AVF) in a single centre in Southeast Asia. Methods: A retrospective study of CDT in AVF between January 2015 and July 2018 at a tertiary university hospital was carried out. Results: Within the study period, 85 patients underwent CDT for AVF thrombosis. Of these patients, 78% underwent CDT for 24 h and 12% required CDT for 48 h. Moreover, 14% of patients had bleeding during CDT and hence required a decrease in dosing or complete cessation. Incidence of intracranial haemorrhage was 1%, and technical success was 92%. Post CDT, primary patency rates at 12, 24 and 36 months were 87%, 62% and 36%, respectively; assisted primary patency rates at 12, 24 and 36 months were 96%, 82% and 69%, respectively; and secondary patency rates at 12, 24 and 36 months were 99%, 93% and 86%, respectively. Multivariate analysis did not identify any predictive factors for patency post CDT. Conclusion: Within our study population, CDT for AVF salvage conferred good technical results with low rates of complications. There was good primary patency at 12 months, and the results were sustained up to 36 months. It remains a useful modality for fistula salvage, avoiding surgical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarice Biru Yeo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Enming Yong
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Qiantai Hong
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Justin Kwan
- Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Lawrence Han Hwee Quek
- Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Uei Pua
- Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Sundeep Punamiya
- Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Sadhana Chandrasekar
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Glenn Wei Leong Tan
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Zhiwen Joseph Lo
- Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
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Ahmadi Ghezeldasht S, Shamsian SAA, Gholizadeh Navashenaq J, Miri R, Ashrafi F, Mosavat A, Rezaee SA. HTLV-1 oncovirus-host interactions: From entry to the manifestation of associated diseases. Rev Med Virol 2021; 31:e2235. [PMID: 33742509 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Human T lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1) is a well-known human oncovirus, associated with two life-threatening diseases, adult T cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATL) and HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). The study of this oncogenic virus is significant from two different aspects. First, HTLV-1 can be considered as a neglected public health problem, which may spread slowly worldwide. Second, the incidence of HTLV-1 associated diseases due to oncogenic effects and deterioration of the immune system towards autoimmune diseases are not fully understood. Furthermore, knowledge about viral routes of transmission is important for considering potential interventions, treatments or vaccines in endemic regions. In this review, novel characteristics of HTLV-1, such as the unusual infectivity of virions through the virological synapse, are discussed in the context of the HTLV-1 associated diseases (ATL and HAM/TSP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Ahmadi Ghezeldasht
- Inflammation and Inflammatory Diseases Division, Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Akbar Shamsian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Blood Borne Infections Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Raheleh Miri
- Blood Borne Infections Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Ashrafi
- Department of Animal Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Arman Mosavat
- Blood Borne Infections Research Center, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Abdolrahim Rezaee
- Inflammation and Inflammatory Diseases Division, Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Abstract
Dentro del género Mycoplasma, las especies que tradicionalmente se han relacionado con cuadros infecciosos han sido principalmente M. pneumoniae, M. genitalium, M. hominis o U. urealyticum. Sin embargo, existen otras muchas que están implicadas y, que muchas veces, son desconocidas para los profesionales sanitarios. El objetivo de esta revisión es identificar todas las especies del género Mycoplasma que se han aislado en el hombre y determinar su participación en la patología infecciosa humana.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E García Sánchez
- Enrique García Sánchez, Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas. Facultad de Medicina. Universidad de Salamanca. Spain.
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Ait Hamou S, Laboudi M. An analytical study on the awareness and practice relating toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Casablanca, Morocco. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:507. [PMID: 33726705 PMCID: PMC7962262 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10474-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although toxoplasmosis is asymptomatic in most cases among pregnant women, it may cause newborn abortions and birth defects if the infection occurs during pregnancy. Therefore, raising awareness and promoting good practices of pregnant women towards toxoplasmosis disease is essential to avoid infection during pregnancy. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to assess toxoplasmosis awareness and its risk-related behavior pregnant women who attended public health centers in one of the biggest Moroccan cities: Casablanca. Methods A structured questionnaire was used to collect data including socio-demographics data, awareness of etiology, modes of transmission and preventive practices towards toxoplasmosis. Results This study survey showed that among 390 pregnant women interviewed, 41.2% reported having heard or read information regarding toxoplasmosis. Only 8.1% of them knew that toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, and 13.7% of those who gave a correct answer were aware that the host of toxoplasmosis is cats. There is a significant statistical association between age, level of education and profession of pregnant women and toxoplasmosis awareness. Despite of the majority of the interviewed pregnant women had had effective preventive practices towards toxoplasmosis, 17.4% of pregnant women were convinced that Toxoplasmosis can transmit to the fetus and 14.3% stated it is asymptomatic in most cases. Conclusion This study highlights the low level of knowledge and awareness of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Casablanca/Morocco. Therefore, a special education program targeting all women during their reproductive age is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ait Hamou
- Laboratory of Ecology and Environment (LEE), Faculty of Sciences Ben M'Sik, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - M Laboudi
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Hygiene, Rabat, Morocco.
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Charaya G, Rakha NK, Kumar A, Maan S, Goel P. End Point Multiplex PCR for Diagnosis of Haemoprotozoan Diseases in Cattle. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:91-97. [PMID: 32757111 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00259-2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Theileriosis, trypanosomosis and babesiosis are the three major haemoprotozoan diseases causing huge economic losses worldwide. Difficulty in diagnosis of these diseases lies with the detection of carrier state with low parasitemia and concurrent infection. PURPOSE The present study was conducted to standardize and evaluate multiplex PCR assay for specific, fast and simultaneous detection of Theileria annulata, Trypanosoma evansi and Babesia bovis in bovines. METHODS Positive parasitic DNA was obtained from microscopically positive samples. Simplex PCR assay was developed targeting repetitive nucleotide sequences for Trypanosoma evansi and gene coding enzyme carbamoyl phosphate synthetase II for Babesia bovis. For theileriosis conditions already standardized targeting cytochrome b gene was used. Gradient PCR assay was used to determine common amplification conditions and develop multiplex PCR assay. Limit of detection was determined using tenfold serial dilution of parasitic DNA. Blood samples collected from 117 bovines suspected for haemoparasite infection was tested by simplex and multiplex PCR assay. RESULTS Simplex PCR assay was able to detect Theileria annulata, Trypanosoma evansi and Babesia bovis at dilution 10-9, 10-8 and 10-8 which corresponds to copy number 1, 10 and 10, respectively, whereas of multiplex PCR assay was found to be 10-7 dilution corresponding to 100 copy number. PCR products bands obtained in multiplex PCR assay at 257, 312 and 446 bp were easily distinguishable. Results of simplex PCR assay for detection of individual parasites revealed 48 (41.02%), 27 (23.07%) and 5 (4.27%) samples positive for T. annulata, T. evansi and B. bovis, respectively. Sixty-three (53.8%) samples were found positive by multiplex PCR assay with 15 samples (23.8%) showing mixed infection. CONCLUSION Multiplex PCR assay was found to be highly specific and can be used for easy, early, sensitive, specific and simultaneous diagnosis of haemoprotozoan diseases in epidemiological survey as a robust tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Charaya
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, Haryana, India.
| | - N K Rakha
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Aman Kumar
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Sushila Maan
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Parveen Goel
- Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana, India
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Lam HCY, Jarvis D, Fuertes E. Interactive effects of allergens and air pollution on respiratory health: A systematic review. Sci Total Environ 2021; 757:143924. [PMID: 33310575 PMCID: PMC7812370 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [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: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have demonstrated an adverse role of outdoor allergens on respiratory symptoms. It is unknown whether this effect is independent or synergistic of outdoor air pollutants. METHODS We systematically reviewed all epidemiological studies that examined interaction effects between counts of outdoor airborne allergens (pollen, fungal spores) and air pollutants, on any respiratory health outcome in children and adults. We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus databases. Each study was summarized qualitatively and assessed for quality and risk of bias (International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews, registration number CRD42020162571). RESULTS Thirty-five studies were identified (15 timeseries, eight case-crossovers, 11 panels and one cohort study), of which 12 reported a significant statistical interaction between an allergen and air pollutant. Eight interactions were related to asthma outcomes, including one on lung function measures and wheeze, three to medical consultations for pollinosis and one to allergic symptoms (nasal, ocular or bronchial). There was no consensus as to which allergen or air pollutant is more likely to interact. No study investigated whether interactions are stronger in atopic individuals. CONCLUSION Despite strong evidence from small experimental studies in humans, only a third of studies identified significant allergen-pollutant interactions using common epidemiological study designs. Exposure misclassification, failure to examine subgroups at risk, inadequate statistical power or absence of population-level effects are possible explanations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly C Y Lam
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Environment & Health, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Deborah Jarvis
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Environment & Health, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Elaine Fuertes
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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Baur X, Frank AL. Ongoing downplaying of the carcinogenicity of chrysotile asbestos by vested interests. J Occup Med Toxicol 2021; 16:6. [PMID: 33622366 PMCID: PMC7901213 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-021-00295-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Industries that mine, manufacture and sell asbestos or asbestos-containing products have a long tradition of promoting the use of asbestos, while placing the burden of economic and health costs on workers and society. This has been successfully done in recent years and decades in spite of the overwhelming evidence that all asbestos types are carcinogenic and cause asbestosis. In doing so, the asbestos industry has undermined the WHO campaign to reach a worldwide ban of asbestos and to eliminate asbestos-related diseases. Even worse, in recent years they succeeded in continuing asbestos mining and consuming in the range of about 1.3 million tons annually. Nowadays, production takes place predominantly in Russia, Kazakhstan and China. Chrysotile is the only asbestos type still sold and represents 95% of asbestos traded over the last century.The asbestos industry, especially its PR agency, the International Chrysotile Association, ICA, financed by asbestos mining companies in Russia, Kazakhstan and Zimbabwe and asbestos industrialists in India and Mexico, continues to be extremely active by using slogans such as chrysotile can be used safely.Another approach of the asbestos industry and of some of its insurance agencies is to broadly defeat liability claims of asbestos victims.In doing so they systematically use inappropriate science produced by their own and/or by industry-affiliated researchers. Some of the latter were also engaged in producing defense material for other industries including the tobacco industry. Frequent examples of distributing such disinformation include questioning or denying established scientific knowledge about adverse health effects of asbestos. False evidence continues to be published in scientific journals and books.The persisting strong influence of vested asbestos-related interests in workers and public health issues including regulations and compensation necessitate ongoing alertness, corrections and appropriate reactions in scientific as well as public media and policy advisory bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xaver Baur
- Chair Em. of Occupational Medicine, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany. .,European Society for Environmental and Occupational Medicine, P.O. Box 370514, D-14135, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Arthur L Frank
- Chair Em. of Environmental & Occupational Health, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Abstract
In this research work, we study the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection on helper T cells governed by a mathematical model consisting of a system of three first-order nonlinear differential equations. The objective of the analysis is to present an approximate mathematical solution to the model that gives the count of the numbers of uninfected and infected helper T cells and the number of free virus particles present at a given instant of time. The system of nonlinear ODEs is converted into a system of nonlinear algebraic equations using spectral collocation method with three different basis functions such as Chebyshev, Legendre and Jacobi polynomials. Some factors such as the production of helper T cells and infection of these cells play a vital role in infected and uninfected cell counts. Detailed error analysis is done to compare our results with the existing methods. It is shown that the spectral collocation method is a very reliable, efficient and robust method of solution compared to many other solution procedures available in the literature. All these results are presented in the form of tables and figures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagithya Thirumalai
- Department of Mathematics, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Puducherry 605014, India
| | - Rajeswari Seshadri
- Department of Mathematics, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Puducherry 605014, India
| | - Şuayip Yüzbaşı
- Department of Mathematics, Akdeniz University, TR-07058 Antalya, Turkey
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45
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Underner M, Peiffer G, Perriot J, Jaafari N. Republication de : Complications pulmonaires chez les consommateurs de cocaïne. Journal Européen des Urgences et de Réanimation 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jeurea.2020.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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46
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Abstract
Accurate estimations of the seroprevalence of antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 need to properly consider the specificity and sensitivity of the antibody tests. In addition, prior knowledge of the extent of viral infection in a population may also be important for adjusting the estimation of seroprevalence. For this purpose, we have developed a Bayesian approach that can incorporate the variabilities of specificity and sensitivity of the antibody tests, as well as the prior probability distribution of seroprevalence. We have demonstrated the utility of our approach by applying it to a recently published large-scale dataset from the US CDC, with our results providing entire probability distributions of seroprevalence instead of single-point estimates. Our Bayesian code is freely available at https://github.com/qunfengdong/AntibodyTest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunfeng Dong
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
- Center for Biomedical Informatics, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Medicine, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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47
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Ham SJ, Choi Y, Kim KW, Cho YC, Woo DC, Lee CW, Jang YJ, Kim PN. Tract ablation after radiofrequency ablation to prevent viable tumor cell adhesion to the needle electrode. Int J Hyperthermia 2020; 37:1287-1292. [PMID: 33198552 DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2020.1846794] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether the additive needle tract ablation (TA) can reduce adherent cells on the needle tract after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in a preclinical HCC mouse model. METHODS Hep3B-Luc cells were engrafted in the Balb/c-nude mice. Nineteen mice were randomly assigned into three groups: the needle only group (needle placement only without performing RFA), the RFA only group (needle placement with active RFA treatment), and the RFA-TA group (needle placement with active RFA treatment and additive tract ablation). The 17-gauge needle with a 10-mm active tip was used. After RFA and TA, the viability of adherent tumor cells on the RFA needle was evaluated with bioluminescence imaging (BLI) and live-cell counting. RESULTS We observed that RFA-TA group had the lowest BLI values compared with other groups (needle only group, 11.2 ± 6.4 million; RFA only group, 13.6 ± 9.1 million; RFA-TA group, 1.11 ± 0.8 million, p = 0.001). Live cell counting with acridine orange/propidium iodide staining also confirmed that the counted viable cell numbers in RFA-TA group were lowest compared to the other groups (needle only group, 14.8 ± 4.5; RFA only group, 643.8 ± 131.9; RFA-TA group, 1.5 ± 0.9, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The additive tract ablation can significantly reduce the number of viable tumor cells adherent to the RFA needle, which can prevent needle tract seeding after RFA procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jung Ham
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonseok Choi
- Medical Research Institute, Gangneung Asan Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Gangneung-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Won Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Chul Cho
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Cheol Woo
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Convergence Medicine Research Center, Asan Medical Center, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Choong Wook Lee
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jin Jang
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Pyo Nyun Kim
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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48
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Abstract
Mycoplasma genitalium is a fastidious organism of the class Mollicutes, the smallest prokaryote capable of independent replication. First isolated in 1981, much is still unknown regarding its natural history in untreated infection. It is recognized as a sexually transmitted pathogen causing acute and chronic non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) in men, with a growing body of evidence to suggest it also causes cervicitis and pelvic inflammatory disease in women. Its role in several other clinical syndromes is uncertain. The majority of people infected remain asymptomatic and clear infection without developing disease; asymptomatic screening is therefore not recommended. Prevalence rates are higher in patients attending sexual health clinics and in men with NGU. Limited availability of diagnostics has encouraged syndromic management, resulting in widespread antimicrobial resistance and given that few antimicrobial classes have activity against M. genitalium, there is significant concern regarding the emergence of untreatable strains. There is a need for wider availability of testing, which should include detection of macrolide resistance mediating mutations. Expertise in interpretation of microbiological results with clinical correlation ensures targeted treatment avoiding unnecessary antibiotic exposure. Public health surveillance nationally and internationally is vital in monitoring and responding to changing epidemiology trends. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of M. genitalium, including epidemiology, clinical and microbiological data, and discuss treatment challenges in the era of rising multidrug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshina Gnanadurai
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5EQ, UK
| | - Helen Fifer
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5EQ, UK
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49
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Blumenthal MJ, Cornejo Castro EM, Whitby D, Katz AA, Schäfer G. Evidence for altered host genetic factors in KSHV infection and KSHV-related disease development. Rev Med Virol 2020; 31:e2160. [PMID: 33043529 PMCID: PMC8047912 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is the etiological agent of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), the most common AIDS-related malignancy. It also causes other rare, but certainly underreported, KSHV-associated pathologies, namely primary effusion lymphoma, multicentric Castleman disease and KSHV inflammatory cytokine syndrome. Epidemiology and pathogenicity studies point to the potential for host genetic predisposition to KSHV infection and/or the subsequent development of KSHV-associated pathologies partly explaining the peculiar geographic and population-specific incidence of KSHV and associated pathologies and discrepancies in KSHV exposure and infection and KSHV infection and disease development. This review consolidates the current knowledge of host genetic factors involved in the KSHV-driven pathogenesis. Studies reviewed here indicate a plausible connection between KSHV susceptibility and host genetic factors that affect either viral access to host cells via entry mechanisms or host innate immunity to viral infection. Subsequent to infection, KSHV-associated pathogenesis, reviewed here primarily in the context of KS, is likely influenced by an orchestrated concert of innate immune system interactions, downstream inflammatory pathways and oncogenic mechanisms. The association studies reviewed here point to interesting candidate genes that may prove important in achieving a more nuanced understanding of the pathogenesis and therapeutic targeting of KSHV and associated diseases. Recent studies on host genetic factors suggest numerous candidate genes strongly associated with KSHV infection or subsequent disease development, particularly innate immune system mediators. Taken together, these contribute toward our understanding of the geographic prevalence and population susceptibility to KSHV and KSHV-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J Blumenthal
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Medical Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Elena Maria Cornejo Castro
- Viral Oncology Section, AIDS and Cancer Virus Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Denise Whitby
- Viral Oncology Section, AIDS and Cancer Virus Program, Leidos Biomedical Research, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Arieh A Katz
- Division of Medical Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Georgia Schäfer
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Medical Biochemistry and Structural Biology, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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50
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Bakoyannis G, Zhang Y, Yiannoutsos CT. Semiparametric regression and risk prediction with competing risks data under missing cause of failure. Lifetime Data Anal 2020; 26:659-684. [PMID: 31982977 PMCID: PMC7381366 DOI: 10.1007/s10985-020-09494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The cause of failure in cohort studies that involve competing risks is frequently incompletely observed. To address this, several methods have been proposed for the semiparametric proportional cause-specific hazards model under a missing at random assumption. However, these proposals provide inference for the regression coefficients only, and do not consider the infinite dimensional parameters, such as the covariate-specific cumulative incidence function. Nevertheless, the latter quantity is essential for risk prediction in modern medicine. In this paper we propose a unified framework for inference about both the regression coefficients of the proportional cause-specific hazards model and the covariate-specific cumulative incidence functions under missing at random cause of failure. Our approach is based on a novel computationally efficient maximum pseudo-partial-likelihood estimation method for the semiparametric proportional cause-specific hazards model. Using modern empirical process theory we derive the asymptotic properties of the proposed estimators for the regression coefficients and the covariate-specific cumulative incidence functions, and provide methodology for constructing simultaneous confidence bands for the latter. Simulation studies show that our estimators perform well even in the presence of a large fraction of missing cause of failures, and that the regression coefficient estimator can be substantially more efficient compared to the previously proposed augmented inverse probability weighting estimator. The method is applied using data from an HIV cohort study and a bladder cancer clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgos Bakoyannis
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University Fairbanks School of Public Health and School of Medicine, 410 West 10th Street, Suite 3000, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Constantin T Yiannoutsos
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University Fairbanks School of Public Health and School of Medicine, 410 West 10th Street, Suite 3000, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
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