Environmental pollutant risk factors for worse COVID-19 related clinical outcomes in predominately hispanic and latino populations

BACKGROUND

Per- and poly-fluorinated compounds (PFAS) and heavy metals constitute two classes of environmental exposures with known immunotoxicant effects. In this pilot study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of exposure to heavy metals and PFAS on COVID-19 severity. We hypothesized that elevated plasma-PFAS concentrations and urinary heavy metal concentrations would be associated with increased odds of ICU admission in COVID-19 hospitalized individuals.

METHODS

Using the University of Southern California Clinical Translational Sciences Institute (SC-CTSI) biorepository of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, urinary concentrations of 15 heavy metals and urinary creatinine were measured in n = 101 patients and plasma concentrations of 13 PFAS were measured in n = 126 patients. COVID-19 severity was determined based on whether a patient was admitted to the ICU during hospitalization. Associations of metals and PFAS with ICU admission were assessed using logistic regression models, controlling for age, sex, ethnicity, smoking status, and for metals, urinary dilution.

RESULTS

The average age of patients was 55 ± 14.2 years. Among SC-CTSI participants with urinary measurement of heavy metals and blood measures of PFAS, 54.5% (n = 61) and 54.8% (n = 80) were admitted to the ICU, respectively. For heavy metals, we observed higher levels of Cd, Cr, and Cu in ICU patients. The strongest associations were with Cadmium (Cd). After accounting for covariates, each 1 SD increase in Cd resulted in a 2.00 (95% CI: 1.10-3.60; p = 0.03) times higher odds of admission to the ICU. When including only Hispanic or Latino participants, the effect estimates between cadmium and ICU admission remained similar. Results for PFAS were less consistent, with perfluorodecanesulfonic acid (PFDS) exhibiting a positive but non-significant association with ICU admission (Odds ratio, 95% CI: 1.50, 0.97-2.20) and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) exhibiting a negative association with ICU admission (0.53, 0.31-0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

This study supports the hypothesis that environmental exposures may impact COVID-19 severity.

Perceptions of anonymised data use and awareness of the NHS data opt-out amongst patients, carers and healthcare staff

BACKGROUND

England operates a National Data Opt-Out (NDOO) for the secondary use of confidential health data for research and planning. We hypothesised that public awareness and support for the secondary use of health data and the NDOO would vary by participant demography and healthcare experience. We explored patient/public awareness and perceptions of secondary data use, grouping potential researchers into National Health Service (NHS), academia or commercial. We assessed awareness of the NDOO system amongst patients, carers, healthcare staff and the public. We co-developed recommendations to consider when sharing unconsented health data for research.

METHODS

A patient and public engagement program, co-created and including patient and public workshops, questionnaires and discussion groups regarding anonymised health data use.

RESULTS

There were 350 participants in total. Central concerns for health data use included unauthorised data re-use, the potential for discrimination and data sharing without patient benefit. 94% of respondents were happy for their data to be used for NHS research, 85% for academic research and 68% by health companies, but less than 50% for non-healthcare companies and opinions varied with demography and participant group. Questionnaires showed that knowledge of the NDOO was low, with 32% of all respondents, 53% of all NHS staff and 29% of all patients aware of the NDOO. Recommendations to guide unconsented secondary health data use included that health data use should benefit patients; data sharing decisions should involve patients/public. That data should remain in close proximity to health services with the principles of data minimisation applied. Further, that there should be transparency in secondary health data use, including publicly available lists of projects, summaries and benefits. Finally, organisations involved in data access decisions should participate in programmes to increase knowledge of the NDOO, to ensure public members were making informed choices about their own data.

CONCLUSION

The majority of participants in this study reported that the use of healthcare data for secondary purposes was acceptable when accessed by NHS. Academic and health-focused companies. However, awareness was limited, including of the NDOO. Further development of publicly-agreed recommendations for secondary health data use may improve both awareness and confidence in secondary health data use.

Mental ill-health in mothers of people with intellectual disabilities compared with mothers of typically developing people: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Mothers of people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) face exceptional challenges and may be more prone to experiencing mental ill-health compared with mothers of typically developing people. These mental ill-health problems may differ at different stages of the caregiving trajectory. However, there is no evidence synthesis on this topic. We aimed to systematically review evidence in this area and identify gaps in the existing literature.

METHOD

Prospero registration: CRD42018088197. Medline, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO databases were searched. No time limits were applied. Studies were limited to English language. Inclusion criteria were studies of mothers of people with IDs that also included a comparison group of mothers of typically developing/developed children. Data were extracted from selected studies using a structured database. Study selection and quality appraisal were double rated. Where possible, meta-analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Of the retrieved articles, 32/3089 were included, of which 10 reported on anxiety, 21 on depression and 23 on other indicators of mental ill-health. Overall, previous studies reported that mothers of people with IDs experienced poorer mental health as compared with mothers of typically developing people. Meta-analyses revealed significant findings for anxiety, depression, parenting stress, emotional burden and common mental disorders, but not for somatic symptoms. However, there was a considerable heterogeneity; hence, interpretation of results should be cautious. Identified gaps included scarce research on mental ill-health of mothers of adults with IDs at different stages of the caregiving trajectory.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence of poorer mental ill-health in mothers of people with IDs compared with mothers of typically developing people, but lack of focus on different stages of the caregiving trajectory, methodological inconsistencies between studies and lack of robust studies pose limitations. This highlights the need both for improved support for mothers of people with IDs and for further methodologically robust research.

Alternative genomic diagnoses for individuals with a clinical diagnosis of Dubowitz syndrome

Dubowitz syndrome (DubS) is considered a recognizable syndrome characterized by a distinctive facial appearance and deficits in growth and development. There have been over 200 individuals reported with Dubowitz or a "Dubowitz-like" condition, although no single gene has been implicated as responsible for its cause. We have performed exome (ES) or genome sequencing (GS) for 31 individuals clinically diagnosed with DubS. After genome-wide sequencing, rare variant filtering and computational and Mendelian genomic analyses, a presumptive molecular diagnosis was made in 13/27 (48%) families. The molecular diagnoses included biallelic variants in SKIV2L, SLC35C1, BRCA1, NSUN2; de novo variants in ARID1B, ARID1A, CREBBP, POGZ, TAF1, HDAC8, and copy-number variation at1p36.11(ARID1A), 8q22.2(VPS13B), Xp22, and Xq13(HDAC8). Variants of unknown significance in known disease genes, and also in genes of uncertain significance, were observed in 7/27 (26%) additional families. Only one gene, HDAC8, could explain the phenotype in more than one family (N = 2). All but two of the genomic diagnoses were for genes discovered, or for conditions recognized, since the introduction of next-generation sequencing. Overall, the DubS-like clinical phenotype is associated with extensive locus heterogeneity and the molecular diagnoses made are for emerging clinical conditions sharing characteristic features that overlap the DubS phenotype.

The prevalence and general health status of people with intellectual disabilities and autism co-occurring together: a total population study

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the population prevalence of co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism, and its impact on general health status. The study aimed to investigate this, in comparison with the general population.

METHOD

Whole country data from Scotland's Census, 2011, were analysed. Descriptive statistics were generated; chi-squared tests were undertaken; and logistic regressions were undertaken both with the whole general population data, adjusted for age and gender, and within the population with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism.

RESULTS

A total of 5709/5 295 403 (1.08/1000) people had co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism; 2.58/1000 children/young people and 0.74/1000 adults. The peak reported prevalence was at age 10 years (3.78/1000); 66.0% were male. Their general health status was substantially poorer than for the rest of the population, more so for children/young people, and they had more limitations in their day-to-day activities. Co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism had odds ratio = 48.8 (45.0-53.0) in statistically predicting poor health.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to report the population prevalence of coexisting intellectual disabilities and autism, and the substantial influence this double disadvantage has on general health status, apparent across the entire life course. This highlights a group in need of wider recognition for whom resources should be focused on and planned for, informed by evidence. Staff in services for people with either of these conditions need to be trained, equipped, resourced and prepared to address the challenge of working for people with this duality. This is essential, to address these substantial health inequalities.

The National Advisory Committee on Infection Prevention and Control (NAC-IPC)

This paper describes the work of the National Advisory Committee on Infection Prevention and Control (NAC-IPC), previously Infection Prevention and Control Expert Working Group, a longstanding external advisory body that provides subject matter expertise and advice to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) on the prevention and control of infectious diseases in Canadian health care settings. Originally established by Health Canada as the Infection Control Guidelines Steering Committee in 1992, this advisory board has been providing expert advice on infection prevention and control (IPC) guideline development for over 25 years. The NAC-IPC provides advice to inform the development of comprehensive or concise guidelines, quick reference guides and interim guidelines (usually for emerging pathogens), working closely with PHAC's national Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) surveillance programs for Canadian health care facilities. PHAC's HAI-IPC professionals conduct the necessary literature research, data extraction, evidence synthesis, evidence grading (where applicable) and scientific writing for the guidelines. Due to the paucity of clinical trials and high quality observational studies to inform recommendations for emerging pathogens, expert opinion is critical for interpreting available evidence. .

The organisation of critical care for burn patients in the UK: epidemiology and comparison of mortality prediction models

In the UK, a network of specialist centres has been set up to provide critical care for burn patients. However, some burn patients are admitted to general intensive care units. Little is known about the casemix of these patients and how it compares with patients in specialist burn centres. It is not known whether burn-specific or generic risk prediction models perform better when applied to patients managed in intensive care units. We examined admissions for burns in the Case Mix Programme Database from April 2010 to March 2016. The casemix, activity and outcome in general and specialist burn intensive care units were compared and the fit of two burn-specific risk prediction models (revised Baux and Belgian Outcome in Burn Injury models) and one generic model (Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre model) were compared. Patients in burn intensive care units had more extensive injuries compared with patients in general intensive care units (median (IQR [range]) burn surface area 16 (7-32 [0-98])% vs. 8 (1-18 [0-100])%, respectively) but in-hospital mortality was similar (22.8% vs. 19.0%, respectively). The discrimination and calibration of the generic Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre model was superior to the revised Baux and Belgian Outcome in Burn Injury burn-specific models for patients managed on both specialist burn and general intensive care units.

Metastasis-associated microRNA expression in canine uveal melanoma

BACKGROUND

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular tumour in dogs. There is no effective means of predicting whether a tumour will metastasize. microRNA (miRNA) metastasis signatures have been identified for several human cancers, including UM.

AIMS

In this study we investigated whether metastasizing and non-metastasizing canine UMs can be distinguished by miRNA expression levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

miRNA microarray profiling was used to compare miRNA expression in 8 metastasizing and 12 non-metastasizing formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) primary UM biopsies.

RESULTS

Fourteen miRNAs exhibited statistically significant differences in expression between the metastasizing and non-metastasizing tumours. Class prediction analysis pinpointed 9 miRNAs which categorized tumours as metastasizing or non-metastasizing with an accuracy of 89%. Of the discriminating miRNAs, 8 were up-regulated in metastasizing UM, and included 3 miRNAs implicated as potential "metastasis activators" in human cutaneous melanoma. The expression of 4 of the miRNAs was subsequently measured using the quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and their up-regulation in metastasizing tumours validated.

CONCLUSION

miRNA expression profiles may potentially be used to identify UMs that will metastasize, and miRNAs that are up-regulated in metastasizing tumours may be targets for therapeutic intervention.

The Helping Horse: How Equine Assisted Learning Contributes to the Wellbeing of First Nations Youth in Treatment for Volatile Substance Misuse

There has been recent interest in Canada exploring the benefits of equine assisted interventions in the treatment of First Nations youth who misuse volatile substances. Using the richness of an exploratory case study involving the White Buffalo Youth Inhalant Treatment Centre and the Cartier Equine Learning Center, our community-based study examined the question of how an Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) program contributes to the wellbeing of First Nations female youth who misuse volatile substances. Both programs are grounded in a holistic bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework of healing. Our study shares how the EAL horses, facilitators and program content contributed to youths' wellbeing in each area of the healing framework (bio-psycho-social-spiritual), with emphasis on the cultural significance of the horse and its helping role. The horse is a helper in the girls' journeys toward improved wellbeing-the horse helps through its very nature as a highly instinctive animal, it helps the facilitators do their jobs, and it also helps put the treatment program activities into practice. In addition, the role of First Nations culture in the girls' lives was enhanced through their encounters with the horses. The findings support the limited literature on equine assisted interventions and add important insights to the youth addictions treatment literature. Key implications to consider for EAL and volatile substance misuse policy, practice and research are identified.

Investigation of prognostic indicators for human uveal melanoma as biomarkers of canine uveal melanoma metastasis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate if 14 genes that discriminate metastasising and non-metastasising human uveal melanomas can differentiate metastasising and non-metastasising uveal melanomas in dogs.

METHODS

Nineteen archival biopsies of eyes with a histopathological classification of primary benign (n = 9) and malignant (n = 10) uveal melanoma were selected. Thoracic and/or abdominal metastases confirmed metastatic spread of the primary tumour in seven dogs during the follow-up period. Gene expression was assayed by Reverse Transcription-quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction. Genes displaying statistically significant differences in expression between the metastasising and non-metastasising tumours were identified.

RESULTS

Four genes (HTR2B, FXR1, LTA4H and CDH1) demonstrated increased expression in the metastasising uveal melanomas.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This preliminary study illustrates the potential utility of gene expression markers for predicting canine uveal melanoma metastasis. The genes displaying elevated expression in the metastasising tumours are part of a 12-discriminating gene set used in a routine assay, performed on fine needle aspirate biopsies collected without enucleation, for predicting human uveal melanoma metastasis. Further work is required to validate the results.

Identification of Sarcocystis capracanis in cerebrospinal fluid from sheep with neurological disease

Protozoal merozoites were identified in the cerebrospinal fluid of two sheep with neurological disease in the UK. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) identified the merozoites as Sarcocystis capracanis, a common protozoal pathogen of goats. This is the first report of this species infecting sheep and may represent an aberrant infection with sheep acting as dead end hosts, or alternatively could indicate that sheep are able to act as intermediate hosts for S. capracanis, widening the previously reported host range of this pathogen. It is possible that S. capracanis is a previously unrecognised cause of ovine protozoal meningoencephalitis (OPM) in the UK.

Understanding behavioral intent to participate in shared decision-making in medically uncertain situations

OBJECTIVE

This article describes the process undertaken to identify and validate behavioral and normative beliefs and behavioral intent based on the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and applied to men between the ages of 45 and 70 in the context of their participation in shared decision-making (SDM) in medically uncertain situations. This article also discusses the preliminary results of the aforementioned processes and explores potential future uses of this information that may facilitate greater understanding, efficiency and effectiveness of clinician-patient consultations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-five male subjects from the Philadelphia community participated in this study. Individual semi-structure patient interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Based on their review of the patient interview transcripts, researchers conducted a qualitative content analysis to identify prevalent themes and, subsequently, create a category framework. Qualitative indicators were used to evaluate respondents' experiences, beliefs, and behavioral intent relative to participation in shared decision-making during medical uncertainty.

RESULTS

Based on the themes uncovered through the content analysis, a category framework was developed to facilitate understanding and increase the accuracy of predictions related to an individual's behavioral intent to participate in shared decision-making in medical uncertainty. The emerged themes included past experience with medical uncertainty, individual personality, and the relationship between the patient and his physician. The resulting three main framework categories include 1) an individual's Foundation for the concept of medical uncertainty, 2) how the individual Copes with medical uncertainty, and 3) the individual's Behavioral Intent to seek information and participate in shared decision-making during times of medically uncertain situations.

DISCUSSION

The theme of Coping (with uncertainty) emerged as a particularly critical behavior/characteristic amongst the subjects. By understanding a subject's disposition with regard to coping, researchers were better able to make connections between a subject's prior experiences, their knowledge seeking activities, and their intent to participate in SDM. Despite having information and social support, the subjects still had to cope with the idea of uncertainty before determining how to proceed with regard to shared decision-making. In addition, the coping category reinforced the importance of information seeking behaviors and preferences for shared decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

This study applies and extends the field of behavioral and health informatics to assist medical practice and decision-making in situations of medical uncertainty. More specifically, this study led to the development of a category framework that facilitates the identification of an individual's needs and motivational factors with regard to their intent to participate in shared decision-making in situations of medical uncertainty.

Biological monitoring of smoke exposure among wildland firefighters: a pilot study comparing urinary methoxyphenols with personal exposures to carbon monoxide, particular matter, and levoglucosan

Urinary methoxyphenols (MPs) have been proposed as biomarkers of woodsmoke exposure. However, few field studies have been undertaken to evaluate the relationship between woodsmoke exposure and urinary MP concentrations. We conducted a pilot study at the US Forest Service-Savannah River Site, in which carbon monoxide (CO), levoglucosan (LG), and particulate matter (PM(2.5)) exposures were measured in wildland firefighters on prescribed burn days. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from each subject, and cross-shift changes in creatinine-corrected urinary MP concentrations were calculated. Correlations between exposure measures and creatine-adjusted urinary MP concentrations were explored, and regression models were developed relating changes in urinary MP concentrations to measured exposure levels. Full-shift measurements were made on 13 firefighters over 20 work shifts in winter 2004 at the US Forest Service Savannah River site, a National Environmental Research Park. The average workshift length across the 20 measured shifts was 701+/-95 min. LG and CO exposures were significantly correlated for samples where the filter measurement captured at least 60% of the work shift (16 samples), as well as for the smaller set of full-shift exposure samples (n=9). PM(2.5) and CO exposures were not significantly correlated, and LG and PM(2.5) exposures were only significantly correlated for samples representing at least 60% of the work shift. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations for 20 of the 22 MPs showed cross-shift increases, with 14 of these changes showing statistical significance. Individual and summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MPs were highly associated with CO (and, to a lesser degree, LG) exposure levels, and random-effects regression models including CO and LG exposure levels explained up to 80% of the variance in cross-shift changes in summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MP concentrations. Although limited by the small sample size, this pilot study demonstrates that urinary MP concentrations may be effective biomarkers of occupational exposure to wood smoke among wildland firefighters.

Informatics-based medical procedure assistance during space missions

Currently, paper-based and/or electronic together with telecommunications links to Earth-based physicians are used to assist astronaut crews perform diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions during space travel. However, these have limitations, especially during long duration missions in which telecommunications to earth-based physicians can be delayed. We describe an experimental technology called GuideView in which clinical guidelines are presented in a structured, interactive, multi-modal format and, in each step, clinical instructions are provided simultaneously in voice, text, pictures video or animations. An example application of the system to diagnosis and treatment of space Decompression Sickness is presented. Astronauts performing space walks from the International Space Station are at risk for decompression sickness because the atmospheric pressure of the Extra-vehicular Activity space- suit is significantly less that that of the interior of the Station.

Combined analysis of three crossover clinical pharmacology studies of effects of rabeprazole and esomeprazole on 24-h intragastric pH in healthy volunteers

AIM

To compare antisecretory effects of rabeprazole and esomeprazole after single and repeat dosing in Helicobacter pylori-negative healthy volunteers.

METHODS

Results were pooled from three smaller, open, crossover, randomized studies to obtain data from 80 subjects. The studies compared: (a) 5 days' dosing of 20 mg rabeprazole and esomeprazole (n = 24); (b) single doses of rabeprazole 20 mg and esomeprazole 40 mg (n = 27) and (c) 5 days' dosing of rabeprazole 10 mg and esomeprazole 20 mg (n = 29). Washout periods were > or =14 days. Intragastric pH was recorded continuously for 24 h on days 0, 1 and 5.

RESULTS

Single doses of rabeprazole 20 mg maintained 24-h intragastric pH >4 for longer than esomeprazole 20 mg (45% vs. 32%; P < 0.001); rabeprazole 20 mg and esomeprazole 40 mg were equivalent in their effects. After 5 days' dosing, rabeprazole 20 mg maintained pH >4 for longer than esomeprazole 20 mg (62% vs. 56%; P = 0.046); the reverse was true for esomeprazole 20 mg vs. rabeprazole 10 mg (56% vs. 48%; P = 0.035). In general, intragastric pH AUC during 0-5 h after dosing was higher after esomeprazole than rabeprazole, whereas the reverse was true during the night.

CONCLUSIONS

The order of effects on 24-h pH was: rabeprazole 10 mg < or = esomeprazole 20 mg < rabeprazole 20 mg = esomeprazole 40 mg. Esomeprazole acts faster, whereas rabeprazole's effect lasts longer.

Exemestane in metastatic breast cancer: Effective therapy after third-generation non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor failure

Exemestane is a potent steroidal aromatase inhibitor (AI) with activity in post-menopausal women with metastatic breast cancer, with a reported clinical benefit (CB) rate of 24.3% after prior AI therapy. Data on 114 patients (112 female, 2 male) were obtained retrospectively at two cancer centres. Sixty-five percent of patients were confirmed as oestrogen receptor (ER) positive. All patients had received prior third-generation AI therapy. Responses were seen in 5% and the overall CB rate (CR+PR+SD24 weeks) was 46%. Median PFS and OS were 18 and 61 weeks, respectively. In patients with visceral disease, the CBR was 33%. Patients with known ER-positive disease had a CBR of 47%, and a median TTP of 19 weeks. No benefit was seen in patients with known ER-negative disease. Survival was better in those with CB (median survival not reached in those with CB, 28 weeks in those without CB P<0.0001). Efficacy persisted in those patients who had received 3 prior lines of hormonal therapy, including adjuvant treatment. These data confirm exemestane to be an effective therapy after third-generation non-steroidal AI in post-menopausal ER-positive metastatic breast cancer, including visceral disease.

Evaluating the resources of Veterinary Services

The assessment of human and material resource capacity and capability remains a critical component of the evaluation of Veterinary Services. Human resource evaluation examines the skills, qualifications and competencies of staff members and helps to determine the optimum number of staff needed to provide an efficient and effective service. Organisational arrangements, ongoing training and performance evaluation are important. Material resources include funds for operational activity, accommodation (including laboratory facilities), equipment, communication and transport. Evaluation is a complex process. The structure and service delivery arrangements of Veterinary Services must be taken into account. Evaluation can be based principally on input, infrastructure and quality systems or on outputs and outcomes. It may be based on a combined approach involving all of these components.

The effect of essential oils on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus using a dressing model

Patchouli, tea tree, geranium, lavender essential oils and Citricidal (grapefruit seed extract) were used singly and in combination to assess their anti-bacterial activity against three strains of Staphylococcus aureus: Oxford S. aureus NCTC 6571 (Oxford strain), Epidemic methicillin-resistant S. aureus (EMRSA 15) and MRSA (untypable). The individual essential oils, extracts and combinations were impregnated into filter paper discs and placed on the surface of agar plates, pre-seeded with the appropriate strain of Staphylococcus. The effects of the vapours of the oils and oil combinations were also assessed using impregnated filter paper discs that were placed on the underside of the Petri dish lid at a distance of 8mm from the bacteria. The most inhibitory combinations of oils for each strain were used in a dressing model constructed using a four layers of dressings: the primary layer consisted of either Jelonet or TelfaClear with or without Flamazine; the second was a layer of gauze, the third a layer of Gamgee and the final layer was Crepe bandage. The oil combinations were placed in either the gauze or the Gamgee layer. This four-layered dressing was placed over the seeded agar plate, incubated for 24h at 37 degrees C and the zones of inhibition measured. All experiments were repeated on three separate occasions. No anti-bacterial effects were observed when Flamazine was smeared on the gauze in the dressing model. When Telfaclear was used as the primary layer in the dressing model compared to Jelonet, greater zones of inhibition were observed. A combination of Citricidal and geranium oil showed the greatest-anti-bacterial effects against MRSA, whilst a combination of geranium and tea tree oil was most active against the methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (Oxford strain). This study demonstrates the potential of essential oils and essential oil vapours as antibacterial agents and for use in the treatment of MRSA infection.

Hepatitis C seroprevalence among newly incarcerated inmates in the Texas correctional system

The seroprevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) infection was examined among a sample of incoming inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) prison system. Rates were compared across demographic factors and three types of prison facilities: substance abuse felony punishment units (SAFPs), state jails and prisons. The study sample consisted of 3712 incoming inmates incarcerated for any duration, dating from 1 November 1998 to 31 May 1999. Among males, inmates entering SAFPs and state jails had comparable HCV infection rates (29.7 and 27.0%, respectively) to those entering prisons (27.3%). Among females, inmates entering prisons had a higher rate of infection (48.6%) than those entering state jails (35.1%) or SAFPs (38.3%). For both genders, blacks exhibited a lower overall infection rate than whites and Hispanics, and HCV seroprevalence increased in a stepwise fashion with age. All subgroups of TDCJ inmates, including those held in alternative correctional facilities, exhibited HCV infection rates that were comparable with previous reports of inmate populations, but dramatically higher than general community samples. Given that most inmates held in alternative facilities will return to the general community in a short period of time, understanding the HCV infection rates in these subgroups holds particular public health relevance.

Characterization of ultrastructural and metabolic abnormalities in semen from men with spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND

In men with spinal cord injury (SCI), fertility is impaired because of a combination of ejaculatory dysfunction and poor semen quality. We hypothesized that ultrastructural and metabolic abnormalities of sperm could be an underlying factor in infertility in these men.

METHODS

To investigate mechanisms contributing to the abnormal sperm parameters, we analyzed seminal constituents and sperm ultrastructure in ejaculates from 7 men with SCI and compared them with 5 control subjects. Sperm adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content was measured using a firefly luciferase bioluminescent assay kit, and ultrastructure was evaluated by electron microscopy. Seminal oxidative stress (8-iso-prostaglandin F-2alpha [8-iso-PGF2alpha]) and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) levels were measured by specific enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay kits.

RESULTS

Semen samples from men with SCI showed azoospermia (3) and severe asthenospermia (2; motility 0-5%). A majority (65%) of sperm from asthenospermic samples showed degenerative changes and significant axonemal defects. Incubation of normal sperm with SCI seminal plasma induced a concentration-dependent decrease in sperm motility (43%) accompanied by a significant drop in intracellular ATP content (33%). Semen samples from men with SCI exhibited levels of 8-iso-PGF2alpha 3.5-fold higher than those from controls and levels of TGF-beta1 that were 10% higher than those from controls.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that seminal constituents of men with SCI are detrimental to sperm movement and that ultrastructural degenerative changes may contribute to the impaired sperm motility and viability seen in these patients. These preliminary results must be confirmed in larger patient populations and longitudinal studies.

Spinal cord injury and sexuality in married or partnered men: activities, function, needs, and predictors of sexual adjustment

The sexual behaviors, functioning, needs, and sexual satisfaction levels of men with spinal cord injuries (SCI) were studied. A sample of 50 men with SCI (median age = 50; median age at injury = 25.0), either married or in a committed relationship, responded to an anonymous survey of a large southern California regional spinal injury rehabilitation center. Multiple regression analyses indicated that perceived partner satisfaction, relationship quality, and sexual desire were significant predictors of sexual satisfaction and behavior. Erectile function, level of genital sensation, and orgasmic capacity all varied widely in the sample, as well. However, none of these variables were significantly related to sexual satisfaction. A varied sexual repertoire was independently related to sexual satisfaction and behavior, but did not offer additional predictive power. Results suggest that for married or partnered men with SCI, relationship factors including partner satisfaction and relationship quality are significantly and positively related to sexual satisfaction. Married or partnered men with SCI who report low relationship satisfaction, have difficulty satisfying their partner, and/or report low sexual desire may benefit from assessments and interventions that address these issues.

ngl9: a third MADS box gene expressed in alfalfa root nodules

Expression of MADS box genes has previously been localized to the infected cells of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) root nodules. These genes represent the first putative transcription factors to be identified in nodules and are hypothesized to be involved in a signal transduction pathway initiated by the intracellular bacterium. The eventual activation of specific target genes defines pertinent characteristics of this nitrogen-fixing differentiated cell. In this study, we identify a third nodule MADS box gene, ngl9, and demonstrate that the DNA-binding activity of its protein product is dependent on the presence of a second MADS box protein, NMH7. Despite previous results to the contrary, both genes are expressed in the early stages of flower development, further strengthening the premise that nodule developmental programming may capitalize upon existing developmental cascades.

HIV Seroprevalence among newly incarcerated inmates in the Texas correctional system

PURPOSE

The seroprevalence of HIV infection was examined among a sample of incoming inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice prison system. Rates were compared across sociodemographic factors and three types of prison facilities: substance abuse felony punishment units (SAFPs), state jails, and prisons.

METHODS

The study sample consisted of 4386 incoming inmates incarcerated for any duration, dating from November 1, 1998, to May 31, 1999.

RESULTS

Among males, inmates entering state jails had a higher HIV infection rate (3.7%) than either inmates entering prisons (1.9%) or those entering SAFPs (0.5%). Among females, inmates entering prisons had a higher rate of infection (9.3%) than those entering state jails (2.5%) or SAFPs (4.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

Although a number of blinded HIV seroprevalence studies have been conducted in U.S. prison systems, scarce information is currently available on HIV infection rates in alternative correctional facilities. The present study shows that HIV seropositivity varied substantially according to race, gender, and prison facility type. Given the shorter incarceration periods for inmates held in alternative facilities, understanding how infection rates vary according to type of incarceration facility holds particular public health relevance.

Pain in nursing home residents. Comparison of residents' self-report and nursing assistants' perceptions. Incongruencies exist in resident and caregiver reports of pain; therefore, pain management education is needed to prevent suffering

Physical pain is a significant problem for many older adults, and as many as 83% of nursing home residents reportedly have pain. Unrelieved pain has consequences for elderly individuals' physical and mental health, rehabilitation, and quality of life. Evidence suggests, however, that pain is underdetected and poorly managed among older adults. This may be due, in part, to lack of congruence between patients' and caregivers' perceptions of pain. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate: the prevalence, location, and intensity of residents' self-rated and nursing assistants' (NA) rated pain; the congruence between residents' and NAs' ratings of pain; and resident-based and NA-based correlates of congruent and incongruent pain ratings. Participants in this study were 45 nursing home resident-NA dyads. The results indicated 49% of residents stated they experienced pain in the past week, but NAs reported that 36% of residents experienced pain during the same time interval. There was no significant association between residents' self-ratings and NAs' ratings of pain. Of the 45 paired ratings, residents and NAs were congruent in 37.7% of cases and incongruent in 62.2% of cases. Incongruent ratings included both underdetection (37.8%) and overreporting (24.4%) by the NAs. Only residents' self-rated affect (e.g., depression, well-being) was significantly associated with whether their pain was congruently assessed, underdetected, or overreported. Depression was highest in those for whom pain was not perceived by the NAs and well-being was highest in those residents who denied pain but for whom NAs reported pain. Caregiver characteristics (e.g., age, education, work experience) were not significantly associated with pain congruence outcomes. These findings illustrate the complexities of assessing pain in older adults, and the need to include nursing assistants (NAs) in educational programs focusing on managing pain in elderly nursing home residents.

Hemodynamic and electrocardiographic effects of almotriptan in healthy volunteers

We studied the possible cardiovascular effects of single oral doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg of almotriptan, a new triptan for treatment of migraine, in a randomized, double-blind, four-way crossover, placebo-controlled study in 24 healthy volunteers aged 18 to 35 years. Doses were given at 1-week intervals. Cardiovascular effects were assessed by frequent recording of blood pressure and heart rate, 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) (recorded at 25 mm/s paper speed and 1 cm/mV and at 50 mm/s and 2 cm/mV), and continuous ECG monitoring for 12 h after each dose. ECG variables, PR, QRS, QT interval, and QT dispersion, were measured. QT intervals were adjusted for heart rate using Bazett's formula. None of the doses of almotriptan differed significantly from placebo with respect to PR, QRS, or QTc intervals, QTc dispersion, heart rate, or continuous ECG monitoring. Almotriptan 12.5 mg did not differ significantly from placebo with respect to systolic or diastolic blood pressure, but almotriptan 25 and 50 mg raised systolic blood pressure by a mean of 2.78 and 4.17 mm Hg, and diastolic blood pressure by 3.77 and 6.11 mm Hg, respectively, during 0 to 4 h after dosing. Thus none of the doses of almotriptan affected the ECG, and the 12.5-mg dose (the expected therapeutic dose) had no hemodynamic effects. Almotriptan in doses of 25 and 50 mg caused a small, dose-related increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as seen with other triptans.

New onset of venous thromboembolism among hospitalized patients at Brigham and Women's Hospital is caused more often by prophylaxis failure than by withholding treatment

CONTEXT

Guidelines to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE) have been widely distributed and generally have been assumed to be effective. Therefore, among hospitalized patients, the development of VTE is thought to occur in the context of omitted prophylaxis.

OBJECTIVES

To describe hospitalized patients who develop VTE and to determine whether they received antecedent prophylaxis.

DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

Brigham and Women's Hospital.

PATIENTS

Three hundred eighty-four patients who developed in-hospital deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism or who developed VTE within 30 days of prior hospital discharge.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The relationship of developing new-onset VTE to the use or omission of antecedent in-hospital prophylaxis.

RESULTS

Of the 384 identified patients, 272 had deep venous thrombosis alone, 62 had pulmonary embolism alone, and 50 had deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Most were medical service patients; fewer than one fourth were general or orthopedic surgery patients. Overall, 52% had received antecedent VTE prophylaxis. Thirteen deaths (3.4%) were ascribed to pulmonary embolism, and prophylaxis was omitted in only 1 of those 13 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Most deaths from pulmonary embolism among patients hospitalized for other conditions occurred in the setting of failed prophylaxis rather than omitted prophylaxis. High-risk patients, especially medical service patients, warrant intensive VTE prophylaxis and close follow-up to ensure successful outcomes.

A comparison of the awareness and utilisation of postoperative health services provided to women with breast cancer in public and private hospitals

Nurses at a metropolitan Cancer Care Centre (CCC) noted that women who have had recent breast surgery for carcinoma had significantly different levels of knowledge and use of support services depending upon public or private hospitalisation. The public hospital participants were more aware of the range of available services (mean = 3.6) compared to women from the private sector (mean = 2.6). In addition, the public hospital participants were more likely to access a wider range of services post discharge (mean = 2.21) compared to the private hospital women (mean = 0.85). A significant difference was found between younger and older women's use of services.

Separation of root nodule cells and identification of tissue-specific genes

The interior tissues of the alfalfa (Medicago sativa) root nodule differ in form and function from the peripheral layers. The interior tissues are specialized for the fixation of nitrogen in cells infected by rhizobia. In contrast, the peripheral nodule tissues perform roles that assist the interior tissues: they provide metabolic support and protect the interior tissues from damaging levels of oxygen. We used a novel microdissection technique to separate these tissue types, allowing immunological and molecular comparison between the nodule interior and periphery. Using differential mRNA display reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction, we compared the mRNA profiles of the separated tissues and identified a transcript specific to the nodule interior, and several peripheral-specific candidate genes.