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Tchatchouang S, Andre Mbongue Mikangue C, Kenmoe S, Bowo-Ngandji A, Mahamat G, Thierry Ebogo-Belobo J, Serge Mbaga D, Rodrigue Foe-Essomba J, Numfor H, Irma Kame-Ngasse G, Nyebe I, Bosco Taya-Fokou J, Zemnou-Tepap C, Félicité Yéngué J, Nina Magoudjou-Pekam J, Gertrude Djukouo L, Antoinette Kenmegne Noumbissi M, Kenfack-Momo R, Aimee Touangnou-Chamda S, Flore Feudjio A, Gael Oyono M, Paola Demeni Emoh C, Raoul Tazokong H, Zeukeng F, Kengne-Ndé C, Njouom R, Flore Donkeng Donfack V, Eyangoh S. Systematic review: Global host range, case fatality and detection rates of Mycobacterium ulcerans in humans and potential environmental sources. J Clin Tuberc Other Mycobact Dis 2024; 36:100457. [PMID: 39026996 PMCID: PMC11254744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jctube.2024.100457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fundamental aspects of the epidemiology and ecology of Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) infections including disease burden, host range, reservoir, intermediate hosts, vector and mode of transmission are poorly understood. Understanding the global distribution and burden of MU infections is a paramount to fight against Buruli ulcer (BU). Four databases were queried from inception through December 2023. After critical review of published resources on BU, 155 articles (645 records) published between 1987 and 2023 from 16 countries were selected for this review. Investigating BU in from old endemic and new emerging foci has allowed detection of MU in humans, animals, plants and various environmental samples with prevalence from 0 % up to 100 % depending of the study design. A case fatality rate between 0.0 % and 50 % was described from BU patients and deaths occurred in Central African Republic, Gabon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burkina Faso and Australia. The prevalence of MU in humans was higher in Africa. Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT) and non-NAAT were performed in > 38 animal species. MU has been recovered in culture from possum faeces, aquatic bugs and koala. More than 7 plant species and several environmental samples have been tested positive for MU. This review provided a comprehensive set of data on the updates of geographic distribution, the burden of MU infections in humans, and the host range of MU in non-human organisms. Although MU have been found in a wide range of environmental samples, only few of these have revealed the viability of the mycobacterium and the replicative non-human reservoirs of MU remain to be explored. These findings should serve as a foundation for further research on the reservoirs, intermediate hosts and transmission routes of MU.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sebastien Kenmoe
- Virology Department, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Arnol Bowo-Ngandji
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Gadji Mahamat
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Jean Thierry Ebogo-Belobo
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Hycenth Numfor
- Scientific Direction, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Ginette Irma Kame-Ngasse
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Inès Nyebe
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Raoul Kenfack-Momo
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Martin Gael Oyono
- Department of Animals Biology and Physiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Francis Zeukeng
- Department Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Cyprien Kengne-Ndé
- Research Monitoring and Planning Unit, National Aids Control Committee, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Virology Department, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Sara Eyangoh
- Scientific Direction, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaounde, Cameroon
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Ayerakwa EA, Abban MK, Isawumi A, Mosi L. Profiling Mycobacterium ulcerans: sporulation, survival strategy and response to environmental factors. Future Sci OA 2023; 9:FSO845. [PMID: 37026027 PMCID: PMC10072065 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2022-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of Buruli ulcer – a necrotizing skin infection. As an environmental pathogen, it has developed stress response mechanisms for survival. Similar to endospore formation in M. marinum, it is likely that M. ulcerans employs sporulation mechanisms for its survival and transmission. In this review, we modeled possible transmission routes and patterns of M. ulcerans from the environment to its host. We provided insights into the evolution of M. ulcerans and its genomic profiles. We discuss reservoirs of M. ulcerans as an environmental pathogen and its environmental survival. We comprehensively discuss sporulation as a possible stress response mechanism and modelled endospore formation in M. ulcerans. At last, we highlighted sporulation associated markers, which upon expression trigger endospore formation.
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Amoako YA, Agbanyo A, Novignon J, Owusu L, Tuffour J, Asante-Poku A, Hailemichael Y, Mosweu I, Canter R, Opondo C, Allen E, Pitt C, Yeboah-Manu D, Walker SL, Marks M, Phillips RO. Buruli-RifDACC: Evaluation of the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of high-dose versus standard-dose rifampicin on outcomes in Mycobacteriumulcerans disease, a protocol for a randomised controlled trial in Ghana. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2023; 2:59. [PMID: 36825217 PMCID: PMC7614217 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13332.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Background Buruli ulcer (BU) can lead to disfiguring ulcers and permanent disability. The 2030 World Health Organization (WHO) road map for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) calls for major scaling up in diagnosis and management to eliminate disability due to the disease. Current treatment for BU is with daily oral rifampicin (10mg/kg dose) and clarithromycin (15mg/kg dose) for eight weeks, combined with standard gauze wound dressings. Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)-coated dressings have been shown to irreversibly bind bacteria on wound surfaces resulting in their removal when dressings are changed. This trial aims to determine whether combining a high-dose oral rifampicin regimen with DACC dressings can improve the rate of wound healing relative to standard-dose oral rifampicin combined with DACC dressings. Methods This is an individual, multi-centre Phase 3 randomised controlled trial, which will be conducted in three clinical sites in Ghana. The primary outcome measure will be the mean time to clearance of viable mycobacteria. Cost and health-related quality of life data will be collected, and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed. Discussion The findings from this trial could lead to a change in how BU is treated. A shorter but more efficacious regimen would lead to improved treatment outcomes and potentially substantial financial and economic savings. Trial registration Pan African Clinical Trials Repository (registration number; PACTR202011867644311). Registered on 30 th November 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaw Ampem Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Jacob Novignon
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lucy Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Tuffour
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adwoa Asante-Poku
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Iris Mosweu
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ruth Canter
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charles Opondo
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Catherine Pitt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Michael Marks
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Leuenberger A, Koné BV, N’krumah RTAS, Koffi DY, Bonfoh B, Utzinger J, Pluschke G. Perceived water-related risk factors of Buruli ulcer in two villages of south-central Côte d'Ivoire. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010927. [PMID: 36516125 PMCID: PMC9750022 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is a neglected tropical skin disease that is primarily endemic in West and Central Africa, including Côte d'Ivoire. Studies indicate that M. ulcerans infections are caused by contact with an environmental reservoir of the bacteria, governed by specific human biological conditions. Yet, the nature of this reservoir and the exact mode of transmission remain unknown. METHODOLOGY To identify ecologic risk factors of Buruli ulcer in south-central Côte d'Ivoire, we pursued a qualitative study matched with geo-referencing inquiry. Embedded in a broader integrated wound management research project, we (i) mapped households and water sources of laboratory confirmed Buruli ulcer cases and (ii) interviewed 12 patients and four health care workers to assess exposure to surface water and to deepen the understanding of perceived transmission pathways. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Water availability, accessibility, and affordability were reported as key determinants for choosing water resources. Furthermore, perceived risks were related to environmental, structural, and individual factors. Despite the presence of improved water sources (e.g., drilled wells), communities heavily relied on unprotected surface water for a multitude of activities. The nearby Bandama River and seasonal waterbodies were frequently used for washing, bathing, and collection of water for drinking and cooking. Many residents also reported to cross the river on a daily basis for agricultural chores, and hence, are exposed to stagnant water during farming activities. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our study in two Buruli ulcer endemic villages in south-central Côte d'Ivoire revealed a wide range of water-related domestic activities that might expose people to an increased risk of contracting the disease. Environmental, biological, social, and cultural risk factors are closely interlinked and should be considered in future investigations of Buruli ulcer transmission. Active participation of the communities is key to better understand their circumstances to advance research and fight against Buruli ulcer and other neglected tropical diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Leuenberger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bognan V. Koné
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Raymond T. A. S. N’krumah
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Université Peleforo Gon Coulibaly de Korhogo, Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Didier Y. Koffi
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Programme National de Lutte contre l’Ulcère de Buruli, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Bassirou Bonfoh
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gerd Pluschke
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Amoako YA, Agbanyo A, Novignon J, Owusu L, Tuffour J, Asante-Poku A, Hailemichael Y, Mosweu I, Canter R, Opondo C, Allen E, Pitt C, Yeboah-Manu D, Walker SL, Marks M, Phillips RO. Buruli-RifDACC: Evaluation of the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of high-dose versus standard-dose rifampicin on outcomes in Mycobacterium ulcerans disease, a protocol for a randomised controlled trial in Ghana [version 1; peer review: 2 approved]. NIHR OPEN RESEARCH 2022; 2:59. [PMID: 36825217 PMCID: PMC7614217 DOI: 10.3310/nihropenres.13332.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Buruli ulcer (BU) can lead to disfiguring ulcers and permanent disability. The 2030 World Health Organization (WHO) road map for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) calls for major scaling up in diagnosis and management to eliminate disability due to the disease. Current treatment for BU is with daily oral rifampicin (10mg/kg dose) and clarithromycin (15mg/kg dose) for eight weeks, combined with standard gauze wound dressings. Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC)-coated dressings have been shown to irreversibly bind bacteria on wound surfaces resulting in their removal when dressings are changed. This trial aims to determine whether combining a high-dose oral rifampicin regimen with DACC dressings can improve the rate of wound healing relative to standard-dose oral rifampicin combined with DACC dressings. Methods This is an individual, multi-centre Phase 3 randomised controlled trial, which will be conducted in three clinical sites in Ghana. The primary outcome measure will be the mean time to clearance of viable mycobacteria. Cost and health-related quality of life data will be collected, and a cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed. Discussion The findings from this trial could lead to a change in how BU is treated. A shorter but more efficacious regimen would lead to improved treatment outcomes and potentially substantial financial and economic savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaw Ampem Amoako
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Jacob Novignon
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Economics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lucy Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Tuffour
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adwoa Asante-Poku
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Iris Mosweu
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ruth Canter
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Charles Opondo
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Catherine Pitt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Michael Marks
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Alo C, Okedo-Alex IN, Akamike IC, Agu AP, Okeke IM, Amuzie CI, Alo NC. Utilising community volunteers can increase the detection and referral of Buruli ulcer cases in endemic communities in Southeast, Nigeria. Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2022; 8:24. [PMID: 36316742 PMCID: PMC9623928 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-022-00181-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer (BU) is a debilitating neglected tropical disease which causes disability and mostly affects inhabitants in impoverished settings where access to medical care is challenging. This study aims to determine the effect of training community members as volunteers for or in the detection and referral of people who have Buruli ulcer to the hospital. METHODS The following study is a before and after study in the BU-endemic Local Government Areas (LGA) of Ebonyi State. A cluster random sampling technique was used to select 90 volunteers from three LGAs (30 from each LGA). In each LGA, the volunteers underwent a one-day training and six months field work to identify all those who have any form of ulcer on any part of their bodies. A short questionnaire was used to capture socio-demographic characteristics of the patient, site of the ulcer, duration of the ulcer, initial appearance of the ulcer, referral to hospital, result of laboratory investigation, and treatment received. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Microsoft Windows version 20 software. The Z test statistic was used to compare the number of referred BU patients before and after the intervention by LGA. The Chi square test was used to examine the association between the dependent and independent variables. RESULTS The mean age of volunteers was 39 ± 9.5 while mean age of the patients was 42.3 ± 17.1. Most of the ulcers were on the legs (79.4%) and lasted 1-5 years (65.6%). There was a significant increase in the proportion of BU suspects identified by the community volunteers in all 3 LGAs (Afikpo north (p = < 0.001), Abakaliki (p = 0.02), Ikwo (p = 0.001). The duration of the ulcer was associated with the detection and referral of the patients with higher levels of detection and referral among those whose ulcer had lasted 1-5 years in two of the LGAs (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION We recommend that program managers and stakeholders integrate and scale up the services of trained community health volunteers for the rapid detection of Buruli ulcer cases in rural endemic communities. Awareness and sensitization campaigns on BU preventive measures should be intensified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihurumnanya Alo
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ebonyi State University, Ebonyi State, Abakaliki, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Nigeria
| | - Ijeoma Nkem Okedo-Alex
- Department of Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Nigeria
- African Institute for Health Policy and Health Systems, Ebonyi State University (EBSU) Abakaliki, Abakaliki,, Nigeria
| | - Ifeyinwa Chizoba Akamike
- Department of Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Nigeria
- African Institute for Health Policy and Health Systems, Ebonyi State University (EBSU) Abakaliki, Abakaliki,, Nigeria
| | - Adaoha Pearl Agu
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ebonyi State University, Ebonyi State, Abakaliki, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Nigeria
| | - Ifeyinwa Maureen Okeke
- Department of Community Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Nigeria
| | - Chidinma Ihuoma Amuzie
- Department of Community Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Abia State Nigeria
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology Training Program, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Nneamaka C. Alo
- Department of Family Medicine, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Abakalik, Ebonyi State Nigeria
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7
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Developing spatio-temporal approach to predict economic dynamics based on online news. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16158. [PMID: 36171461 PMCID: PMC9519903 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20489-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Economic forecasting is a scientific decision-making tool, and it is one of the important basis for the government to formulate economic plans, predict the implementation of the plan, and guide the implementation of the plan. Current knowledge about the use of online news in the prediction of economic patterns in China is limited, especially considering the spatio-temporal dynamics over time. This study explored the spatio-temporal patterns of economic output values in Yinzhou, Ningbo, China between 2018 and 2021, and proposed generalized linear model (GLM) and Geographically weighted regression (GWR) model to predict the dynamics using online news data. The results indicated that there were spatio-temporal variations in the economic dynamics in the study area. The online news showed a great potential to predict economic dynamics, with better performance in the GWR model. The findings suggested online news combining with spatio-temporal approach can better forecast economic dynamics, which can be seen as a pre-requisite for developing an online news-based surveillance system The advanced spatio-temporal analysis enables governments to garner insights about the patterns of economic dynamics over time, which may enhance the ability of government to formulate economic plans and to predict the implementation of the plan. The proposed model may be extended to greater geographic area to validate such approach.
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8
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Muleta AJ, Lappan R, Stinear TP, Greening C. Understanding the transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans: A step towards controlling Buruli ulcer. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009678. [PMID: 34437549 PMCID: PMC8389476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of Buruli ulcer, a rare but chronic debilitating skin and soft tissue disease found predominantly in West Africa and Southeast Australia. While a moderate body of research has examined the distribution of M. ulcerans, the specific route(s) of transmission of this bacterium remain unknown, hindering control efforts. M. ulcerans is considered an environmental pathogen given it is associated with lentic ecosystems and human-to-human spread is negligible. However, the pathogen is also carried by various mammals and invertebrates, which may serve as key reservoirs and mechanical vectors, respectively. Here, we examine and review recent evidence from these endemic regions on potential transmission pathways, noting differences in findings between Africa and Australia, and summarising the risk and protective factors associated with Buruli ulcer transmission. We also discuss evidence suggesting that environmental disturbance and human population changes precede outbreaks. We note five key research priorities, including adoption of One Health frameworks, to resolve transmission pathways and inform control strategies to reduce the spread of Buruli ulcer. Buruli ulcer is a debilitating skin and soft tissue disease characterised by large ulcerative wounds that are treated with antibiotics or with adjunctive surgery for advanced cases. Found predominantly in West Africa and Southeast Australia, the causative agent is the environmental bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans. Lack of understanding of transmission pathways, combined with the absence of a vaccine, has hindered efforts to control the spread of M. ulcerans. Here, in order to identify probable transmission pathways and inform future studies, we review literature linking M. ulcerans to environmental reservoirs, mammalian hosts, and potential invertebrate vectors. We also summarise factors and behaviours that reduce the risk of developing Buruli ulcer, to inform effective prevention strategies and further shed light on transmission pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J. Muleta
- Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Rachael Lappan
- Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Timothy P. Stinear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chris Greening
- Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Coudereau C, Besnard A, Robbe-Saule M, Bris C, Kempf M, Johnson RC, Brou TY, Gnimavo R, Eyangoh S, Khater F, Marion E. Stable and Local Reservoirs of Mycobacterium ulcerans Inferred from the Nonrandom Distribution of Bacterial Genotypes, Benin. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 26:491-503. [PMID: 32091371 PMCID: PMC7045821 DOI: 10.3201/eid2603.190573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of Buruli ulcer, a neglected tropical disease found in rural areas of West and Central Africa. Despite the ongoing efforts to tackle Buruli ulcer epidemics, the environmental reservoir of its pathogen remains elusive, underscoring the need for new approaches to improving disease prevention and management. In our study, we implemented a local-scale spatial clustering model and deciphered the genetic diversity of the bacteria in a small area of Benin where Buruli ulcer is endemic. Using 179 strain samples from West Africa, we conducted a phylogeographic analysis combining whole-genome sequencing with spatial scan statistics. The 8 distinct genotypes we identified were by no means randomly spread over the studied area. Instead, they were divided into 3 different geographic clusters, associated with landscape characteristics. Our results highlight the ability of M. ulcerans to evolve independently and differentially depending on location in a specific ecologic reservoir.
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10
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Simpson H, Tabah EN, Phillips RO, Frimpong M, Maman I, Ampadu E, Timothy J, Saunderson P, Pullan RL, Cano J. Mapping suitability for Buruli ulcer at fine spatial scales across Africa: A modelling study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009157. [PMID: 33657104 PMCID: PMC7959670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is a disabling and stigmatising neglected tropical disease (NTD). Its distribution and burden are unknown because of underdiagnosis and underreporting. It is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, an environmental pathogen whose environmental niche and transmission routes are not fully understood. The main control strategy is active surveillance to promote early treatment and thus limit morbidity, but these activities are mostly restricted to well-known endemic areas. A better understanding of environmental suitability for the bacterium and disease could inform targeted surveillance, and advance understanding of the ecology and burden of BU. We used previously compiled point-level datasets of BU and M. ulcerans occurrence, evidence for BU occurrence within national and sub-national areas, and a suite of relevant environmental covariates in a distribution modelling framework. We fitted relationships between BU and M. ulcerans occurrence and environmental predictors by applying regression and machine learning based algorithms, combined in an ensemble model to characterise the optimal ecological niche for the disease and bacterium across Africa at a resolution of 5km x 5km. Proximity to waterbodies was the strongest predictor of suitability for BU, followed potential evapotranspiration. The strongest predictors of suitability for M. ulcerans were deforestation and potential evapotranspiration. We identified patchy foci of suitability throughout West and Central Africa, including areas with no previous evidence of the disease. Predicted suitability for M. ulcerans was wider but overlapping with that of BU. The estimated population living in areas predicted suitable for the bacterium and disease was 46.1 million. These maps could be used to inform burden estimations and case searches which would generate a more complete understanding of the spatial distribution of BU in Africa, and may guide control programmes to identify cases beyond the well-known endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope Simpson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Earnest Njih Tabah
- National Yaws, Leishmaniasis, Leprosy and Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Cameroon
| | - Richard O. Phillips
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Frimpong
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Issaka Maman
- National Reference Laboratory for Buruli Ulcer Disease in Togo, Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA), Laboratoire des Sciences Biologiques et des Substances Bioactives, Université de Lomé, Lomé, Togo
| | - Edwin Ampadu
- National Buruli Ulcer Control Program, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph Timothy
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Saunderson
- Accelerating Integrated Management (AIM) Initiative, Accra, Ghana
| | - Rachel L. Pullan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge Cano
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Greenspace Inversely Associated with the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease in the Mid-Atlantic United States. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 2:140-150. [PMID: 34322679 PMCID: PMC8312690 DOI: 10.3390/earth2010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease and the most common form of dementia in older adults. Treatment of AD symptoms is very challenging and expensive. Appropriate diet as well as mental and physical activity may delay or reduce the occurrence of AD. It is unknown whether environmental factors offer potentially protective effects against the development of AD. We explored the possible beneficial effects of greenspace (trees and herbaceous cover) on the rate of AD in the mid-Atlantic US. Data for initial AD medical claims during 2011–2013 were obtained from Medicare records for 2999 ZIP codes. The percentages of land cover classes in each ZIP code were calculated based on high-resolution land cover imagery. Associations between AD and greenspace, blue space (water), and other variables were examined using zero-inflated Poisson models. The rate of AD was negatively associated with greenspace (for a greenspace increase of 10%, risk ratio (RR) = 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.89–0.94), and blue space (for a water area increase of 10%, RR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.81–0.89). The inverse relationships between greenspace and the risk of AD held across season, gender, and race. The rate of AD was positively associated with the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) (RR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.02–1.05 for an increase in PM2.5 of 1 μg/m3). Our results suggest that greenspace may have protective effects for AD, although potential mechanisms are unclear and require further investigation.
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Zhang Y, Bambrick H, Mengersen K, Tong S, Feng L, Liu G, Xu A, Zhang L, Hu W. Association of weather variability with resurging pertussis infections among different age groups: A non-linear approach. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 719:137510. [PMID: 32135321 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Pertussis has resurged in many countries over recent years, especially among adolescents and adults. This study assessed the effect of weather variability on resurging pertussis among different age groups in Jinan, China. Data on weekly pertussis notifications by age group and weather factors (mean temperature (MeanT), mean temperature standard deviation within a week (MeanT SD), diurnal temperature range (DTR) and relative humidity (RH)) were collected between 2013 and 2017. Distributed lag non-linear models (DLNMs) and regression tree models were used to examine the non-linear association between weather variability and pertussis infections. The 2-weeks cumulative relative risk (RR) of pertussis infections was 4.46 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.33-9.51) in 0-4 age group, 6.25 (95% CI: 1.38-22.76) in 5-9 age group and 10.11 (95% CI: 2.83-39.07) in 10+ age group when MeanT was at 30.0 °C. MeanT SD (RR range in the three age groups: 2.82-5.83), DTR (RR range: 6.33-11.56) and RH (RR range: 2.02-7.43) also exert significant influence, with the highest risks at 10+ age group. Regression tree models showed the interactive effects of weather variability. The mean pertussis infections increased by over 1.7-fold in 0-4 years group when MeanT ≥14 °C, RH ≥57% and DTR ≥10 °C; by over 2.3-fold in 5-9 years group when MeanT ≥20 °C and MeanT SD ≥3 °C; by 2.0-fold in 10+ years group when MeanT ≥0.7 °C, DTR ≥8.3 °C and RH ≥74%. The study found significantly different associations between weather variability and pertussis infections by age group, and appeared to be stronger in 10+ years group. Continuing climate change, together with other risk factors such as low antibody levels among adolescents and adults, may facilitate pertussis resurgence. This supports previous suggestions of carefully reconsidering current vaccination programme to effectively curb the resurgence of pertussis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhou Zhang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hilary Bambrick
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kerrie Mengersen
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shilu Tong
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; School of Public Health and Institute of Environment and Human Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China; Shanghai Children's Medical Centre, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Feng
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Guifang Liu
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Aiqiang Xu
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China.
| | - Wenbiao Hu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Liu H, Zhang Y, Tian Y, Zheng Y, Gou F, Yang X, He J, Liu X, Meng L, Hu W. Epidemic features of seasonal influenza transmission among eight different climate zones in Gansu, China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 183:109189. [PMID: 32050127 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Seasonal influenza remains epidemic globally with a substantial health burden. Understanding the transmission patterns and epidemic features of influenza may facilitate the improvement of preventive and control measures. This study aims to assess the epidemic features of influenza among different climate zones and identify high-risk zones across Gansu province, China. METHODS We collected weekly influenza cases at county-level between 1st January 2012 and 31st December 2016, as well as climate zones classification shapefile data from Köppen-Geiger climate map. We compared the epidemic features (Frequency index (α), Duration index (β) and Intensity index (γ)) of influenza among different climate zones. Spatial cluster analysis was used to examine the high-risk areas of transmission of influenza. RESULTS The distribution of cases existed significant differences among eight climate zones (F-test: 267.02, p < 0.05). The highest mean weekly incidence rate (per 100,000 population) was 0.59 in snow climate with dry winter and warm summer (Dwb). The primary (relative risk (RR): 3.61, p < 0.001) and secondary (RR: 2.45, p < 0.001) clusters were located in Dwb. The highest values of α, β and γ were 1.00, 261 and 154.38 in Dwb. The hot spots (high-high clusters) of the epidemic indices were detected in Dwb. CONCLUSIONS This study found the variability of epidemic features of influenza among eight climate zones. We highlight that Dwb was the high-risk zone where influenza clustered with the highest incidence rate and epidemic temporal indices. This provide further insight into potential improvement of preventive measures by climate zones to minimize the impact of epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Liu
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuzhou Zhang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yanjun Tian
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yunhe Zheng
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Faxiang Gou
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoting Yang
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jian He
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xinfeng Liu
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China
| | - Lei Meng
- Division of Infectious Disease, Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lanzhou, China.
| | - Wenbiao Hu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Coudereau C, Besnard A, Robbe-Saule M, Bris C, Kempf M, Johnson RC, Brou TY, Gnimavo R, Eyangoh S, Khater F, Marion E. Stable and Local Reservoirs of Mycobacterium ulcerans Inferred from the Nonrandom Distribution of Bacterial Genotypes, Benin. Emerg Infect Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.3201/eid2503.190573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Zhang Y, Bambrick H, Mengersen K, Tong S, Feng L, Zhang L, Liu G, Xu A, Hu W. Resurgence of Pertussis Infections in Shandong, China: Space-Time Cluster and Trend Analysis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 100:1342-1354. [PMID: 30994096 PMCID: PMC6553910 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Although vaccination is effective in preventing infection, pertussis remains endemic worldwide, including China. To lead better targeted prevention strategies, we examined dynamics of spatial and temporal patterns of pertussis transmission in Shandong, China, from 2009 to 2017. We used space-time cluster analysis, logistic regression analysis, and regression tree model to detect the changes in spatial patterns of pertussis infections in Shandong Province, China, between periods (2009–2011, 2012–2014, and 2015–2017). The yearly pertussis incidence rates dramatically increased by 16.8 times from 2009 to 2017. Shifting patterns of peaks of pertussis infections were observed over both time (from June–July to August–September) and space (from Linyi to Jinan), with increasing RR from 4.1 (95% CI: 2.3–7.4) (2009–2011) to 6.1 (95% CI: 5.6–6.7) (2015–2017) and obvious coincidence of peak time. West Shandong had larger odds of increased infections over the study period (odds ratio: 1.52 [95% CI: 1.05–2.17]), and pertussis had larger odds of spreading to east (odds ratio: 2.32 [95% CI: 1.63–3.31]) and north (odds ratio: 1.69 [95% CI: 1.06–2.99]) over time. Regression tree model indicated that the mean difference in yearly average pertussis incidence between 2009–2011 and 2015–2017 increased by more than 4-fold when the longitudes of counties are < 118.0°E. The geographic expansion of pertussis infection may increase the risk of epidemic peaks, coinciding with increased infections in the future. The findings might offer evidence for targeting preventive measures to the areas most in need to minimize the impact of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhou Zhang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hilary Bambrick
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kerrie Mengersen
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Shilu Tong
- Shanghai Children's Medical Centre, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University, Shanghai, China.,School of Public Health, Institute of Environment and Human Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lei Feng
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Guifang Liu
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Aiqiang Xu
- Shandong Provincial Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Wenbiao Hu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Zhang Y, Ye C, Yu J, Zhu W, Wang Y, Li Z, Xu Z, Cheng J, Wang N, Hao L, Hu W. The complex associations of climate variability with seasonal influenza A and B virus transmission in subtropical Shanghai, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 701:134607. [PMID: 31710904 PMCID: PMC7112088 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Most previous studies focused on the association between climate variables and seasonal influenza activity in tropical or temperate zones, little is known about the associations in different influenza types in subtropical China. The study aimed to explore the associations of multiple climate variables with influenza A (Flu-A) and B virus (Flu-B) transmissions in Shanghai, China. Weekly influenza virus and climate data (mean temperature (MeanT), diurnal temperature range (DTR), relative humidity (RH) and wind velocity (Wv)) were collected between June 2012 and December 2018. Generalized linear models (GLMs), distributed lag non-linear models (DLNMs) and regression tree models were developed to assess such associations. MeanT exerted the peaking risk of Flu-A at 1.4 °C (2-weeks' cumulative relative risk (RR): 14.88, 95% confidence interval (CI): 8.67-23.31) and 25.8 °C (RR: 12.21, 95%CI: 6.64-19.83), Flu-B had the peak at 1.4 °C (RR: 26.44, 95%CI: 11.52-51.86). The highest RR of Flu-A was 23.05 (95%CI: 5.12-88.45) at DTR of 15.8 °C, that of Flu-B was 38.25 (95%CI: 15.82-87.61) at 3.2 °C. RH of 51.5% had the highest RR of Flu-A (9.98, 95%CI: 4.03-26.28) and Flu-B (4.63, 95%CI: 1.95-11.27). Wv of 3.5 m/s exerted the peaking RR of Flu-A (7.48, 95%CI: 2.73-30.04) and Flu-B (7.87, 95%CI: 5.53-11.91). DTR ≥ 12 °C and MeanT <22 °C were the key drivers for Flu-A and Flu-B, separately. The study found complex non-linear relationships between climate variability and different influenza types in Shanghai. We suggest the careful use of meteorological variables in influenza prediction in subtropical regions, considering such complex associations, which may facilitate government and health authorities to better minimize the impacts of seasonal influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhou Zhang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Chuchu Ye
- Research Base of Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early Warning of Infectious Disease, Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianxing Yu
- Division of Infectious Disease, Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early Warning of Infectious Disease, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Weiping Zhu
- Research Base of Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early Warning of Infectious Disease, Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanping Wang
- Research Base of Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early Warning of Infectious Disease, Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongjie Li
- Division of Infectious Disease, Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early Warning of Infectious Disease, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwei Xu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jian Cheng
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ning Wang
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lipeng Hao
- Research Base of Key Laboratory of Surveillance and Early Warning of Infectious Disease, Pudong New Area Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China.
| | - Wenbiao Hu
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
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Association of sociodemographic factors and internet query data with pertussis infections in Shandong, China. Epidemiol Infect 2019; 147:e302. [PMID: 31727192 PMCID: PMC6873159 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268819001924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explored how internet queries vary in facilitating monitoring of pertussis, and the effects of sociodemographic characteristics on such variation by city in Shandong province, China. We collected weekly pertussis notifications, Baidu Index (BI) data and yearly sociodemographic data at the city level between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2017. Spearman's correlation was performed for temporal risk indices, generalised linear models and regression tree models were developed to identify the hierarchical effects and the threshold between sociodemographic factors and internet query data with pertussis surveillance. The BI was correlated with pertussis notifications, with a strongly spatial variation among cities in temporal risk indices (composite temporal risk metric (CTRM) range: 0.59–1.24). The percentage of urban population (relative risk (RR): 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.07), the proportion of highly educated population (RR: 1.27, 95% CI 1.16–1.39) and the internet access rate (RR: 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.05) were correlated with CTRM. Higher RRs in the three identified sociodemographic factors were associated with higher stratified CTRM. The percentage of highly educated population was the most important determinant in the BI with pertussis surveillance. The findings may lead to spatially-specific criteria to inform development of an early warning system of pertussis infections using internet query data.
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Cano J, Rodríguez A, Simpson H, Tabah EN, Gómez JF, Pullan RL. Modelling the spatial distribution of aquatic insects (Order Hemiptera) potentially involved in the transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans in Africa. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:501. [PMID: 30189883 PMCID: PMC6127916 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3066-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biting aquatic insects belonging to the order Hemiptera have been suggested as potential vectors of Mycobacterium ulcerans in endemic areas for Buruli ulcer (BU). If this is the case, these insects would be expected to co-exist with M. ulcerans in the same geographical areas. Here, we studied the geographical distribution of six aquatic Hemiptera families that are thought to be vectors of M. ulcerans and explored their potential geographical overlapping with communities reporting BU cases in endemic countries. Methods We have developed ensemble ecological models of predicted distribution for six families of the Hemiptera (Naucoridae, Belostomatidae, Notonectidae, Nepidae, Corixidae and Gerridae) applying a robust modelling framework over a collection of recorded presences and a suite of environmental and topographical factors. Ecological niche factor analysis (ENFA) was first used to identify factors that best described the ecological niches for each hemipteran family. Finally, we explored the potential geographical co-occurrence of these insects and BU in two endemic countries, Cameroon and Ghana. Results Species of the families Naucoridae and Belostomatidae, according to our models, are widely distributed across Africa, although absent from drier and hotter areas. The other two families of biting Hemiptera, the Notonectidae and Nepidae, would have a more restricted distribution, being more predominant in western and southern Africa. All these four families of biting water bugs are widely distributed across coastal areas of West Africa. They would thrive in areas where annual mean temperature varies between 15–22 °C, with moderate annual precipitation (i.e. 350–1000 mm/annual) and near to water courses. Species of all hemipteran families show preference for human-made environments such as agricultural landscapes and urbanized areas. Finally, our analysis suggests that M. ulcerans and species of these aquatic insects might coexist in the same ecological niches, although there would be variation in species diversity between BU endemic areas. Conclusions Our findings predict the geographical co-existence of some species of aquatic hemipteran families and BU. Considering the existing biological evidence that points to some of these aquatic insects as potential phoretic vectors of M. ulcerans, its presence in BU endemic areas should be considered a risk factor. The ecological models here presented may be helpful to inform future environmental based models intended to delineate the potential geographical distribution of BU in the African region. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3066-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Cano
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Antonio Rodríguez
- Department of Horticulture, Botany and Landscaping, School of Agriculture, Food and Forestry Science and Engineering, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Hope Simpson
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Earnest N Tabah
- National Yaws, Leishmaniasis, Leprosy and Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Jose F Gómez
- Department of Biodiversity, Ecology & Evolution, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rachel L Pullan
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Wu J, Rappazzo KM, Simpson RJ, Joodi G, Pursell IW, Mounsey JP, Cascio WE, Jackson LE. Exploring links between greenspace and sudden unexpected death: A spatial analysis. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 113:114-121. [PMID: 29421400 PMCID: PMC5866237 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Greenspace has been increasingly recognized as having numerous health benefits. However, its effects are unknown concerning sudden unexpected death (SUD), commonly referred to as sudden cardiac death, which constitutes a large proportion of mortality in the United States. Because greenspace can promote physical activity, reduce stress and buffer air pollutants, it may have beneficial effects for people at risk of SUD, such as those with heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Using several spatial techniques, this study explored the relationship between SUD and greenspace. We adjudicated 396 SUD cases that occurred from March 2013 to February 2015 among reports from emergency medical services (EMS) that attended out-of-hospital deaths in Wake County (central North Carolina, USA). We measured multiple greenspace metrics in each census tract, including the percentages of forest, grassland, average tree canopy, tree canopy diversity, near-road tree canopy and greenway density. The associations between SUD incidence and these greenspace metrics were examined using Poisson regression (non-spatial) and Bayesian spatial models. The results from both models indicated that SUD incidence was inversely associated with both greenway density (adjusted risk ratio [RR] = 0.82, 95% credible/ confidence interval [CI]: 0.69-0.97) and the percentage of forest (adjusted RR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.81-0.99). These results suggest that increases in greenway density by 1 km/km2 and in forest by 10% were associated with a decrease in SUD risk of 18% and 10%, respectively. The inverse relationship was not observed between SUD incidence and other metrics, including grassland, average tree canopy, near-road tree canopy and tree canopy diversity. This study implies that greenspace, specifically greenways and forest, may have beneficial effects for people at risk of SUD. Further studies are needed to investigate potential causal relationships between greenspace and SUD, and potential mechanisms such as promoting physical activity and reducing stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyong Wu
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, Durham 27711, NC, USA.
| | - Kristen M Rappazzo
- US EPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, Durham 27711, NC, USA
| | - Ross J Simpson
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Golsa Joodi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Irion W Pursell
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; The Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - J Paul Mounsey
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; The Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
| | - Wayne E Cascio
- US EPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, Durham 27711, NC, USA
| | - Laura E Jackson
- US EPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, Durham 27711, NC, USA.
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Wu J, Jackson L. Inverse relationship between urban green space and childhood autism in California elementary school districts. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 107:140-146. [PMID: 28735150 PMCID: PMC6104398 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Green space has a variety of health benefits. However, little is known about its impact on autism, the fastest-growing neurodevelopmental disorder in children. This study examined the relationship between green space and childhood autism prevalence. Autism count data in 2010 were obtained for 543 of ~560 public elementary school districts in California. Multiple types of green space were measured in each school district, including percentages of forest, grassland, and average tree canopy and near-road tree canopy. Their associations with autism prevalence were evaluated with negative binomial regression models and spatial regression models. We observed inverse associations between several green space metrics and autism prevalence in school districts with high road density, the highly urbanized areas, but not in others. According to negative binomial regression models, adjusted rate ratios (RR) for the relationships in these school districts between autism prevalence and green space metrics in 10% increments were as follows: for forest, RR=0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84-0.95); for grassland, RR=0.90 (95% CI: 0.83-0.97); for average tree canopy, RR=0.89 (95% CI: 0.83-0.95), and for near-road tree canopy, RR=0.81 (95% CI: 0.73-0.91). These results suggest that increases of 10% in forest, grassland, average tree canopy and near-road tree canopy are associated with a decrease in autism prevalence of 10%, 10% 11% and 19%, respectively. In contrast, urban land and road density were positively associated with autism prevalence. The results of spatial regression models were consistent with those obtained by negative binomial models, except for grassland. Our study suggests that green space, specifically tree cover in areas with high road density, may influence autism prevalence in elementary school children beneficially. Further studies are needed to investigate a potential causal relationship, and the major mechanisms that may underlie the beneficial associations with green space, such as buffering traffic-related air pollution and noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyong Wu
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Office of Research and Development, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC 27711, USA.
| | - Laura Jackson
- US EPA, Office of Research and Development, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA, 27711.
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Aboagye SY, Ampah KA, Ross A, Asare P, Otchere ID, Fyfe J, Yeboah-Manu D. Seasonal Pattern of Mycobacterium ulcerans, the Causative Agent of Buruli Ulcer, in the Environment in Ghana. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2017; 74:350-361. [PMID: 28238016 PMCID: PMC5496970 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-017-0946-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to contribute to the understanding of Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) ecology by analysing both clinical and environmental samples collected from ten communities along two major river basins (Offin and Densu) associated with Buruli ulcer (BU) at different seasons. We collected clinical samples from presumptive BU cases and environmental samples from ten communities. Following DNA extraction, clinical samples were confirmed by IS2404 PCR and environmental samples were confirmed by targeting MU-specific genes, IS2404, IS2606 and the ketoreductase (KR) using real-time PCR. Environmental samples were first analysed for IS2404; after which, IS2404-positive samples were multiplexed for the IS2606 and KR gene. Our findings indicate an overall decline in BU incidence along both river basins, although incidence at Densu outweighs that of Offin. Overall, 1600 environmental samples were screened along Densu (434, 27 %) and Offin (1166, 73 %) and MU was detected in 139 (9 %) of the combined samples. The positivity of MU along the Densu River basin was 89/434 (20.5 %), whilst that of the Offin River basin was 50/1166 (4.3 %). The DNA was detected mainly in snails (5/6, 83 %), moss (8/40, 20 %), soil (55/586, 9 %) and vegetation (55/675, 8 %). The proportion of MU positive samples recorded was higher during the months with higher rainfall levels (126/1175, 11 %) than during the dry season months (13/425, 3 %). This study indicates for the first time that there is a seasonal pattern in the presence of MU in the environment, which may be related to recent rainfall or water in the soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Yaw Aboagye
- Bacteriology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Institute of Environmental and Sanitation Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kobina Assan Ampah
- Bacteriology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Amanda Ross
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Prince Asare
- Bacteriology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Isaac Darko Otchere
- Bacteriology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Janet Fyfe
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Dorothy Yeboah-Manu
- Bacteriology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
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22
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Wu J, Smithwick EAH. Landscape Fragmentation as a Risk Factor for Buruli Ulcer Disease in Ghana. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2016; 95:63-9. [PMID: 27185767 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Land cover and its change have been linked to Buruli ulcer (BU), a rapidly emerging tropical disease. However, it is unknown whether landscape structure affects the disease prevalence. To examine the association between landscape pattern and BU presence, we obtained land cover information for 20 villages in southwestern Ghana from high resolution satellite images, and analyzed the landscape pattern surrounding each village. Eight landscape metrics indicated that landscape patterns between BU case and reference villages were different (P < 0.05) at the broad spatial extent examined (4 km). The logistic regression models showed that landscape fragmentation and diversity indices were positively associated with BU presence in a village. Specifically, for each increase in patch density and edge density by 100 units, the likelihood of BU presence in a village increased 2.51 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36-4.61) and 4.18 (95% CI = 1.63-10.76) times, respectively. The results suggest that increased landscape fragmentation may pose a risk to the emergence of BU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyong Wu
- Department of Geography, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania. Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
| | - Erica A H Smithwick
- Department of Geography, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania
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Burden and Historical Trend of Buruli Ulcer Prevalence in Selected Communities along the Offin River of Ghana. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004603. [PMID: 27078028 PMCID: PMC4831816 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is a neglected tropical skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans with more than two thirds of the global cases reported in West Africa. A nationwide active BU case search conducted in 1999 identified two health districts along the Offin River as two of the three most endemic districts in Ghana. Based on recent anecdotal accounts that transmission is unstable along the Offin River, we conducted from March to June 2013 an exhaustive household survey and active case search in 13 selected communities within a five-kilometer radius along the Offin River. The overall prevalence of BU was 2.3% among the surveyed population of 20,390 inhabitants and 477 of the total 480 cases detected (99.4%) were historical (healed) cases. By estimating the year of occurrence for each case per community and taking into account available passive surveillance records of health facilities and the District Health Directorate, we observed a general trend of continuous emergence of cases in communities located midstream the Offin River whereas downstream communities showed more sporadic patterns. We monitored the incidence of cases after the survey and recorded a cumulative incidence rate of 0.04% for the 13 communities over a 17-month active surveillance period from August 2013 to December 2014. Our data reveal an overall decline in BU incidence along the Offin River similar to the general decline in BU incidence in recent years reported by the World Health Organization for West Africa. Buruli ulcer (BU) is a tropical skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans and more than two thirds of the global cases reported in West Africa. The Offin has been considered the most endemic river valley in Ghana following a nationwide active case search conducted in 1999. Here, we present findings of an exhaustive household survey and case search of 13 selected communities along the Offin river aimed at addressing recent anecdotal accounts of unstable transmission of M. ulcerans within the river basin. We observed among the surveyed population of 20,390 inhabitants, an overall 2.3% prevalence of BU with 99.4% of the total cases detected being historical cases. We also observed a general trend of continuous and sporadic emergence of cases in mid and downstream communities, respectively. Subsequently, we detected a total of eight cases (0.04% cumulative incidence rate) in a prospective 17-month active surveillance of all 13 communities. These data confirm the recent decline in BU incidence in historically endemic communities along the Offin river basin, analogous to the observation made in recent years by the World Health Organization for West Africa.
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Wu J, Yunus M, Islam MS, Emch M. Influence of Climate Extremes and Land Use on Fecal Contamination of Shallow Tubewells in Bangladesh. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:2669-76. [PMID: 26844955 PMCID: PMC4775353 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b05193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Climate extremes in conjunction with some land use practices are expected to have large impacts on water quality. However, the impacts of land use and climate change on fecal contamination of groundwater has not been well characterized. This work quantifies the influences of extreme weather events and land use practices on Escherichia coli presence and concentration in groundwater from 125 shallow wells, a dominant drinking water resource in rural Bangladesh, monitored over a 17 month period. The results showed that E. coli presence was significantly associated with the number of heavy rain days, developed land and areas with more surface water. These variables also had significant impacts on E. coli concentration, with risk ratios of 1.38 (95% CI = 1.16, 1.65), 1.07 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.09), and 1.02 (95% CI = 1.01, 1.03), respectively. Significant synergistic effects on E. coli presence and concentration were observed when land use and weather variables were combined. The findings suggest that climate extremes and land use practices, particularly urbanization, might promote fecal contamination of shallow well water, thus increasing the risk of diarrheal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyong Wu
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering,
Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill, NC USA
| | - Mohammad Yunus
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research,
Bangladesh
| | | | - Michael Emch
- Department of Geography, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill, NC USA
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Tschakert P, Ricciardi V, Smithwick E, Machado M, Ferring D, Hausermann H, Bug L. Situated knowledge of pathogenic landscapes in Ghana: Understanding the emergence of Buruli ulcer through qualitative analysis. Soc Sci Med 2015; 150:160-71. [PMID: 26761375 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Successfully addressing neglected tropical diseases requires nuanced understandings of pathogenic landscapes that incorporate situated, contexualized community knowledge. In the case of Buruli ulcer (BU), the role of social science is vital to investigate complex human-environment interactions and navigate different ways of knowing. We analyze a set of qualitative data from our interdisciplinary project on BU in Ghana, drawing from participatory mapping, focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, and open-ended survey questions to explore how people in endemic and non-endemic areas see themselves embedded in changing environmental and social landscapes. We pay particular attention to landscape disturbance through logging and small-scale alluvial gold mining. The results from our participatory research underscore the holistic nature of BU emergence in landscapes, encapsulated in partial and incomplete local descriptions, the relevance of collective learning to distill complexity, and the potential of rich qualitative data to inform quantitative landscape-disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Tschakert
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Earth and Environmental Systems Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; School of Earth and Environment, University of Western Australia, M004, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Vincent Ricciardi
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Institute for Resources, Environment, and Sustainability (IRES), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Erica Smithwick
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Earth and Environmental Systems Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
| | - Mario Machado
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
| | - David Ferring
- Department of Geography, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8045, USA.
| | - Heidi Hausermann
- Department of Human Ecology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901-8520, USA.
| | - Leah Bug
- Center for Science and the Schools, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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