Strain typing and antimicrobial susceptibility of Salmonella enterica Albany isolates from duck farms in South Korea

Salmonella enterica is distributed worldwide and is a common cause of bacterial food poisoning in humans and a serious public health problem. Although duck meat consumption has recently increased in Korea, studies on the epidemiological relationship between S. enterica contamination in duck farms are scarce. Salmonella enterica serovar Albany isolates recovered from duck farms were analyzed using two typing methods - IR Biotyper® (IRBT) and multilocus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA). The clustering results were compared with the epidemiological survey findings and the antimicrobial resistance profiles. From April 2019 to October 2020, 20 individual feces per farm from 5-6-week-old ducks were collected repeatedly from 105 duck farms. Salmonella spp. isolated from duck feces were identified using PCR and multilocus sequence typing to investigate the prevalence and distribution of the Salmonella serovars. The prevalence of S. enterica was 19%, and S. enterica Albany was the predominantly recovered isolate. The S. enterica Albany isolates underwent antimicrobial susceptibility testing to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration. MLVA and IRBT methods established relatedness and diversity among the S. enterica Albany isolates. Multidrug-resistant S. enterica Albany was distributed in all the farms. Antimicrobial resistance profiles reflected the duck farm characteristics and isolates recovered from the same farm showed an identical profile. Isolates repeatedly recovered from the same farm also showed identical IRBT clusters and MLVA groups. These findings suggest that the isolates remained on the duck farm and re-infected new duck flocks. Thus, proper cleaning and disinfection is required before the farms are repopulated.

Clinical characteristics of motor functional neurological disorder manifesting as limb weakness after vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019: A case series

Background

The characteristics of functional limb weakness (FLW) as one of the manifestations of functional neurological disorder after vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remain controversial.

Methods

In this descriptive case series, we aimed to elucidate the characteristics of Japanese patients with FLW who claimed muscle weakness after COVID-19 vaccination among patients who visited our outpatient clinic between 1 June 2021 and 31 December 2022.

Results

Nine patients were diagnosed with FLW (mean age: 30.8 years), including two men and seven women. Seven patients were vaccinated with the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine and two with the mRNA-1273 Moderna vaccine. All patients demonstrated various positive signs for FLW. Magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography indicated no abnormality that could explain their symptoms. At the time of the clinic visit, five patients were treated for psychiatric disorders, including depression, insomnia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Asperger's syndrome. Muscle weakness spread to the limbs beyond the vaccinated arm in seven patients.

Conclusions

We describe the basic characteristics of FLW in Japanese patients after COVID-19 vaccination. Further recognition of these characteristics could aid the diagnosis of FLW by physicians allowing them to support these patients effectively.

Prevalence of mental disorders among Norwegian college and university students: a population-based cross-sectional analysis

Background

Self-report data indicate a sharp increase in mental health problems among college and university students in recent years, but accurate prevalence estimates of mental disorders are lacking. The current study used a validated psychiatric diagnostic survey, developed into a self-administered electronic version, to examine the prevalence of common mental disorders in a large national sample of college and university students in Norway.

Methods

Participants (aged 18-35 years) from the national Students' Health and Wellbeing (SHOT) Study in 2022 were recruited to a follow-up online survey of mental disorders from January to February 2023 (n = 10,460). Current (30-days), 12-months and lifetime prevalence of common mental disorders were examined using a newly developed self-administered electronic version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 5.0).

Findings

The prevalence of a current mental disorder was high for both women (39.7% [2737/6886], 95% CI 38.6-40.9) and men (25.7% [751/2918], 95% CI 24.2-27.4). The most common disorders were major depressive episode (females 17.1% [1250/7329] and males 10.8% [331/3059]) and generalized anxiety disorder (females 16.0% [1157/7221] and males 8.2% [250/3032]), while 5.6% [387/6948] and 7.7% [228/2963] of the females and male students, respectively, fulfilled the criteria for an alcohol use disorder. The prevalence estimates for 12-month and lifetime were, as expected, even higher.

Interpretation

The findings suggest an alarmingly high prevalence of several mental disorders among Norwegian college and university students. Implications and potential methodological and contextual explanations of these findings are discussed.

Funding

Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research.

Quality of life in patients with PICC diagnosed with mesothelioma: Results of a multicenter epidemiological survey (LifePICC)

BACKGROUND

Pleural mesothelioma (PM) is a rare and aggressive cancer. PICC devices are widely used in cancer patients. The aim of the study is to evaluate the quality of life of patients with PICC diagnosed with PM treated at the Hospital of Casale Monferrato and Alessandria (Italy), an area with a high incidence of asbestos-related diseases.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Longitudinal prospective observational study with data collection at PICC insertion (T0), after 3 months (T1), 6 months (T2), and 9 months (T3). Participants were aged >18 years, diagnosed with PM, eligible for PICC insertion. Questionnaires used: EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-LC13, and HADS rating scale.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients were enrolled. The mean age was 68.93 years (SD 9.13), mostly male (57.1%). The most frequent cancer stage at diagnosis was III (39.3%), then I (32.1%), and IV (21.4%). 85.7% were treated with chemotherapy, 14.3% also with immunotherapy. 96.4% of patients reported no complications during PICC implantation. The perception of health status and quality of life, measured on a scale of 1-7, was in line with an average score of 5 during the evaluation period. The total anxiety and depression score remained normal for most patients (0-7).

CONCLUSIONS

The PICC management involved a multidisciplinary team with different skills: study findings revealed the key role that dedicated nurses play in PICC placement and ensuring patient problems are promptly addressed. From our study results, PICC placement does not seem to negatively impact the patient's quality of life.

THE FIRST SURVEY OF BOVINE BABESIA SPECIES INFECTING YAKS (BOS GRUNNIENS) IN MONGOLIA

Yak (Bos grunniens) farming is an important part of Mongolia's livestock industry. Yaks survive in harsh mountain environments; provide meat, milk, and wool; and serve as a mode of transportation. In Mongolia, yaks are frequently raised alongside other livestock animals such as cattle, Bactrian camels, sheep, goats, and horses. Recently, we demonstrated that Babesia bovis, Babesia bigemina, and Babesia naoakii-parasites with the potential to cause clinical bovine babesiosis-infect not only cattle but also Bactrian camels in Mongolia. However, yaks have never been surveyed for Babesia infections in this country. In the present study, we surveyed yaks in 8 Mongolian provinces: Bayankhongor, Bayan-Ulgii, Khovd, Khovsgol, Omnogovi, Ovorkhangai, Uvs, and Zavkhan. Blood samples were taken and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted from 375 yaks. Furthermore, Giemsa-stained thin smears were prepared from 315 of the 375 blood samples and then examined for the microscopic detection of Babesia parasites. Microscopy revealed that 34 (10.8%) of 315 blood smears were positive for Babesia parasites. All 375 DNA samples were then tested for B. bovis, B. bigemina, and B. naoakii infection using specific polymerase chain reaction assays. We observed that 238 (63.5%) yaks in all surveyed provinces and 8 (2.1%) yaks in 3 provinces (Bayankhongor, Bayan-Ulgii, and Omnogovi) were positive for B. bovis and B. bigemina, respectively. However, all yaks tested were negative for B. naoakii. This epidemiological survey, the first to report Babesia infection in Mongolian yaks, suggests that disease management strategies for yaks in this country should further address bovine babesiosis.

Questionnaire-based epidemiological survey of primary focal hyperhidrosis and survey on current medical management of primary axillary hyperhidrosis in Japan

To obtain current epidemiological information on primary focal hyperhidrosis in Japan, a large epidemiological survey was conducted using a web-based questionnaire. The prevalence of primary focal hyperhidrosis was 10.0% and the site-specific prevalence was highest for primary axillary hyperhidrosis (5.9%). The proportion of respondents with primary focal hyperhidrosis who had consulted a physician was 4.6%, which was similar to the low prevalence reported previously in 2013 in Japan. A questionnaire survey for physicians and individuals with primary axillary hyperhidrosis on the current medical management of primary axillary hyperhidrosis showed that physicians recognized the existence of patients who were very worried about hyperhidrosis, but failed to provide active treatment. Regarding the information provided by patients to physicians at presentation, it was found that patients failed to provide sufficient information to the physicians about their worries in daily life. Among individuals who had sought medical care with primary axillary hyperhidrosis, 62.3% reported that they were not currently receiving treatment, highlighting a challenge to be addressed regarding continued treatment. Frequently chosen options leading to willingness to receive treatment were less expensive treatment and highly effective treatment as well as feeling free to consult a physician, suggesting a desire for an improved medical environment.

Epidemiological and genetic evaluation of HEV in swine slaughtered in Sicily region (Italy)

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the etiological agent of acute viral hepatitis, a disease transmitted by the oral-faecal route. In Europe, zoonotic transmission of HEV-3 genotype is associated with the consumption of raw or slightly cooked meat of pigs and wild boars that are considered the main reservoirs. This work aims to assess the occurrence of swines' HEV RNA liver samples and rectal swabs slaughtered in Sicily using biomolecular methods. HEV-RNA was detected in 17.5 % (21/120) liver samples analyzed and in 3.7 % (3/81) rectal swabs examined. All positive samples were predicted as genotype 3 and subtype 3c (75 %). These data suggest a potential HEV transmission to humans through close contact with pig breeders, veterinarians, slaughterhouse personnel, and pork meat product consumption. Moreover, there are few scientific data evaluating the HEV spread around pigs and humans in Sicily. Therefore, further studies are necessary to correlate humans with swine serotypes and to assess the HEV presence and persistence in food and the risk during the slaughtering process. These surveys allow to clarify the role of the swine species as a potential source of infection for other domestic or wild animals and humans and to establish possible control measures throughout the food chain.

Prevalence of dry eye syndrome and risk factors in physical education and sports science graduates

PURPOSE

There are only a few epidemiological studies of dry eye syndrome (DES) in populations with a common academic background. in this study, the prevalence of DES and associated factors were evaluated separately in men and women physical education and sports science graduates.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

METHODS

A questionnaire about the diagnosis of DES and associated factors was mailed to 9507 graduates of the Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Juntendo University. The questions covered subjective DES using Schaumberg et al.'s questionnaire and the prevalence of diagnosed DES. Associated factors, age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, body mass index, daily screen viewing time, and contact lens (CL) use were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 2048 valid responses were received. The prevalence of diagnosed DES was 2.9% in men and 9.3% in women. For subjective DES, the prevalence was 14.8% in men and 39.8% in women. The odds ratio for DES was high in men and women who used CLs and women whose daily screen viewing time was ≥ 4 h.

CONCLUSION

Both diagnosed and subjective DES were highly prevalent in men and women of all ages, particularly among those in their 20 and 30s. CL use was associated with DES in both men and women. Measures to deal with the factors that can be corrected might have a positive effect on the ocular health and quality of life of physical education and sports science graduates.

Molecular epidemiology analysis of fowl adenovirus detected from apparently healthy birds in eastern China

BACKGROUND

Fowl adenovirus is of major concern to the poultry industry worldwidely. In order to monitor the prevalent status of Fowl adenovirus in China, a total of 1920 clinical samples from apparently healthy birds in the 25 sites of poultry flocks, Slaughterhouse and living bird markets from 8 provinces in eastern China were collected and detected by PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis.

RESULTS

The epidemiological survey showed that Fowl adenoviruses were detected in living bird markets, and circulating in a variety of fowl species, including chickens, ducks, goose and pigeons. Among the 1920 clinical samples, 166 samples (8.65%) were positive in the fowl adenovirus PCR detection. In this study, totally all the 12 serotypes (serotypes of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8A, 8B, 9, 10 and 11) fowl adenoviruses were detected, the most prevalent serotype was serotype 1. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that 166 FAdVs of 12 serotypes were divided into 5 fowl adenovirus species (Fowl aviadenovirus A, B, C, D, E).

CONCLUSIONS

In the epidemiological survey, 8.65% of the clinical samples from apparently healthy birds were positive in the fowl adenovirus PCR detection. Totally all the 12 serotypes fowl adenoviruses were detected in a variety of fowl species, which provided abundant resources for the research of fowl adenoviruses in China. The newly prevalent FAdV serotypes provides valuable information for the development of an effective control strategy for FAdV infections in fowls.

The Inverse Association of Serum Magnesium with Papillary Thyroid Cancer in Thyroid Nodules: a Cross-Sectional Survey Based on Thyroidectomy Population

Magnesium is considered to play a role in preventing cancer. However, the association between serum magnesium and papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) remains unknown. We retrospectively reviewed records of all patients who underwent thyroidectomy with thyroid nodules confirmed pathologically as benign nodule or PTC at our institution from January 2016 to December 2020. Data including demographic characteristics, laboratory tests, and pathological features were analyzed in 5709 adult patients eventually. The subjects with benign nodules had a higher mean serum magnesium level than those with PTC (P < 0.001), and the proportions of PTCs decreased across quartiles of serum magnesium within the normal range. After adjustment for confounders, patients with the lowest quartile of serum magnesium had a higher prevalence of PTC than those with the highest quartile (OR = 1.421, 95%CI: 1.125-1.795, P for trend = 0.005), and the risk of PTC was 0.863 (95%CI: 0.795-0.936) for a per-SD change in serum magnesium. The contribution of serum magnesium remained in subgroup analysis (P for interaction for all analyses > 0.05). Based on the ROC curve, the cut-off value of serum magnesium used to differentiate benign nodules from PTCs was 935 μmol/L. Combining serum magnesium with other clinical indicators can improve the efficacy of predicting PTC. Our results showed that lower serum magnesium within the normal range was associated with a greater risk of PTC among patients with thyroid nodules considering thyroidectomy. Serum magnesium may be an independent protective factor against PTC and provide additional information on the odds of malignancy in uncertain thyroid nodules in combination with other clinical factors.

Clinical features of patients who visited the outpatient clinic for long COVID in Japan

Background

The clinical course, comorbidity, and management of symptoms after the acute phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remain controversial.

Methods

This was a descriptive case series study, examining the characteristics of patients with longstanding symptoms related to COVID-19 who visited our outpatient clinic between 1 June and 31 December 2021. We analyzed patients’ background, chief complaints, clinical course after COVID-19 onset, and clinical examination results.

Results

A total of 90 patients with a mean age of 39.8 years were confirmed as having long COVID. The median time between diagnosis of COVID-19 and visiting our clinic was 66.8 days, and 89 patients (98.9%) were unvaccinated. Depression was the most common comorbidity (nine patients, 10.0%). The most common chief complaint was disturbance of smell and/or taste (35, 38.9%), followed by memory disturbance (22, 24.4%) and fatigue (29, 31.1%). Head MRI was performed for 42 (46.7%) patients, and the most common finding was sinusitis (four patients). Olfactory testing was conducted in 25 patients (27.8%) using a T&T olfactometer, and 14 patients (56%) had mild olfactory impairment. Of the five odors in the T&T, recognition of β-phenylethyl alcohol was most impaired.

Conclusions

This study describes the basic characteristics of long COVID in Japan. It suggests that long COVID is complex because it results in a wide range of symptoms.

•

Overall, 90 patients with long COVID were confirmed and examined by neurologists.

•

Disturbance of smell and/or taste was the most common complaint.

•

Olfactory tests showed different disturbance of the five main odors.

•

Only one patient with long COVID had been vaccinated against COVID-19.

•

Cross-disciplinary approaches are needed for treating patients with long COVID.

Epidemiological survey of the status of iodine nutrition and thyroid diseases in Guangxi, China

OBJECTIVE

To survey the status of iodine nutrition and the prevalence of thyroid diseases in Guangxi, China, and to explore the risk factors for positive thyroid antibody.

METHODS

We used the multistage stratified cluster random sampling method to select a total of 2488 subjects from an urban and a rural location. All the subjects completed a questionnaire survey, blood and urine samples were also collected, and B-mode thyroid ultrasound was used to determine thyroid function and detect thyroid antibodies.

RESULTS

1) The median level of urinary iodine was 148.53 μg/L in school-age children in Guangxi, China. 2) The prevalence rates for thyroid diseases were as follows: hyperthyroidism, 0.89 %; subclinical hyperthyroidism, 1.05 %; hypothyroidism, 0.69 %; and subclinical hypothyroidism, 8.87 %. The rates of thyroid antibody positivity were as follows: thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), 13.60 %; thyroglobulin antibody (TGAb), 13.60 %; thyroid antibodies, 18.2 %; and thyroid nodules, 16.94 %. 3) The rate of TPOAb positivity was significantly higher in women aged 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, or 60-69 years than in men in the same age groups (P < 0.05), and the TGAb positivity rate was significantly higher in women than in men of the same age group (P < 0.05). 4) The rate of thyroid antibody positivity was significantly higher in individuals with iodine deficiency than in individuals with adequate iodine (21.6 % vs 18.4 %) or excess iodine (21.6 % vs 15.5 %) (both P < 0.05). 5) The female sex and a family history of thyroid diseases were the major risk factors for thyroid antibody positivity (odds ratio [OR] 3.010, P <0.05; OR 2.486, P <0.05).

CONCLUSION

The overall level of iodine is adequate in Guangxi, China; this level should be maintained to prevent the thyroid diseases related with iodine deficiency or excess of iodine. Female sex and a family history of thyroid diseases are independent risk factors for thyroid antibody positivity.

Metabolic syndrome is not associated to an increased risk of low bone mineral density in men at risk for osteoporosis

PURPOSE

We have recently demonstrated a significant association between osteoporosis (Op) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Caucasian women examined by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for suspected Op. This cross-sectional study was performed to evaluate the association between MetS and Op in Caucasian men enrolled in the same geographical area, with identical criteria and in the same time range.

METHODS

Among subjects enrolled in the SIMON study, we selected the medical records of all free-living men who performed a contextual evaluation of both bone mineral density (BMD) by DXA and MetS constitutive elements (arterial blood pressure, waist circumference, serum levels of triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting glucose). All enrolled subjects refer to "COMEGEN" general practitioners' cooperative operating in Naples, Southern Italy.

RESULTS

Overall, the medical records of 880 men were examined. No significant association between MetS and Op was observed. Among MetS constitutive elements, waist circumference was inversely related to Op risk.

CONCLUSION

In Caucasian men examined by DXA for suspected Op, no significant association was observed between Op and MetS. The study results contrast to those observed in women enrolled in the same geographical area, with identical criteria and in the same time range and may be related to sexual dimorphism occurring in clinical expressiveness of both MetS and Op.

[Epidemiology of echinococcosis in Serthar County of Sichuan Province in 2019]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the epidemiology of echinococcosis in Serthar County, Sichuan Province, so as to provide insights into optimization of echinococcosis control measures.

METHODS

The prevalence of human echinococcosis was surveyed among permanent residents living in Serthar County at ages of over 2 years from 2016 to 2019, and the prevalence of Echinococcus infections was surveyed in owned dogs, yaks and rodents in 2019. The epidemiological features of echinococcosis in humans and animals were descriptively analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of human echinococcosis was 3.72% (1 613/43 362) in Serthar County from 2016 to 2019, and the prevalence rates of cystic echinococcosis, alveolar echinococcosis and mixed infections of cystic echinococcosis and alveolar echinococcosis were 1.72% (745/43 362), 1.98% (860/43 362) and 0.02% (8/43 362), respectively. The prevalence of human echinococcosis was higher in pastoral areas (4.13%, 1 577/38 149) than in semi-agricultural and semi-pastoral areas (0.69%, 36/5 213) (χ² = 151.82, P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference in the prevalence between men (3.76%, 819/21 787) and women (3.68%, 794/21 575) (χ² = 0.19, P > 0.05). Cystic echinococcosis was the predominant type in students with echinococcosis (93.78%, 422/450), while alveolar echinococcosis was the predominant type in herders with echinococcosis (72.16%, 801/1 110). There was a significant difference in the constituent ratio of echinococcosis types between students and herders (χ² = 588.57, P < 0.05). In addition, higher prevalence of echinococcosis was detected in nomadic populations (4.58%, 1 008/22 021) than in community-dwelling populations (2.83%, 605/21 341) (χ² = 91.88, P < 0.05). The Echinococcus copro-antigen-positive rate was 0.19% (4/2 157) in owned dogs, and the detection rate of echinococcosis was 8.00% (16/200) in yaks and 3.10% (31/1 000) in rodents in 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

Echinococcosis is highly prevalent in Serthar County, Sichuan Province. Sustained management of source of Echinococcus infections, improved treatment of echinococcosis patients and timely health education for nomadic populations are recommended.

[Epidemiological and clinical profile of chronic venous disease in the hotel-catering sector of the Setif region, Algeria, during the period 2016-2018]

The purpose of our work is to carry out an epidemiological study among the workers of 18 hotels in the region of Setif, in order to estimate the prevalence of this pathology, to identify the risk factors and to propose prevention recommendations. The study population concerned a total workforce of 628 male-dominated workers, interesting 18 hotels in the region of Setif, whose hotel staff consists of floor staff, kitchen and catering, reception and security reception and maintenance. Workers responded to a pre-established questionnaire to collect socio-demographic and occupational data, reviewing all venous risk factors and functional symptoms. The venous clinical examination of the lower limbs was carried out with reference to the international classification CEAP. Our study found a high prevalence of CVI in the hotel and restaurant sector (62.4%). A significant association of CVI is found with age, female gender, familial inheritance of CVI, overweight and obesity. Floor and kitchen trades were the most concerned with CVI, with prolonged standing posture, heavy loads, among the occupational factors taken into account. The high prevalence of CVI in the hotel and restaurant sector motivate change in the low-profile and discriminatory image of this frequent and chronic condition. Multidisciplinary work is at the heart of integrated care, the occupational physician can contribute to the early detection and prevention of this disease in the workplace.

Health insurance enrollment and vision health in rural China: an epidemiological survey

Background

Vision health is an important aspect of health worldwide. Visual impairment (VI) is associated with poor quality of life and is usually more prevalent in rural areas. To help rural populations obtain vision care, health insurance policies have emerged throughout the world. However, some existing literatures show that health insurance enrollment’s impact on the overall physical health of rural population has been minimal. Focusing on vision health among adults in rural China, our study aims to investigates the impact of health insurance on vision health, heterogeneity of the effect, and the moderating effect of health insurance enrollment on the impact of chronic physical diseases and basic eye diseases on vision health.

Methods

Primary data were collected through a nation-wide epidemiological survey of vision health conducted in rural China in 2018, with a sample size of 28,787 used in our statistical analysis. Instrumental variables regression and Heckman selection models were conducted to examine the impact of health insurance enrollment and reimbursement ratio adults’ vision health outcomes. Subsample regressions by sex, age, education level, and whether with eye diseases were further conducted to explore the heterogeneity in our results. We then examined whether health insurance enrollment moderates the impact of chronic physical diseases and basic eye diseases on vision health through the method of introducing interaction terms.

Results

Participating in health insurance reduced the probability of VI by 2.15 %. The reimbursement rate increasing by 1 % point may reduce the probability of worsening VI by 6.12 %. Men (-0.0235, P = 0.0002) benefit more from insurance enrollment than women (-0.0201, P = 0.0082) with respect to vision health. From the young adult group to the oldest group, the marginal effect of health insurance increased from − 0.0068 (P = 0.0394) to -0.0753 (P < 0.0001). The marginal effect on VI was most significant in people with lower education levels and weakened with increased education levels. People with basic eye diseases (-0.0496, P = 0.0033) benefit more from participating insurance than the people without basic eye diseases (-0.0196, P = 0.0001) with respect to vision health. The moderating effects of health insurance enrollment on the impacts of cerebral infarction (-0.1225, P < 0.0001), diabetes (-0.0398, P = 0.0245), hyperlipidemia (-0.1364, P = 0.0271), mental illness (-0.1873, P = 0.0010), glaucoma (-0.1369, P = 0.0073), diabetic retinopathy (-0.1560, P = 0.0043), and retinal vein obstruction (-0.2018, P = 0.0155) on vision health were significantly negative.

Conclusions

The results suggest that participation in health insurance and higher health insurance reimbursement ratios reduced the risk of VI in the sampled adults. Health insurance has the most significant effect in in vulnerable groups. Heath insurance enrollment moderates the impacts of several chronic physical and basic eye conditions on vision health. Our findings have potential implications for reforming health insurance policies to improve vision health conditions in rural areas of developing countries.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-021-06754-0.

Risk factors and prevalence of taeniasis among the Karen people of Tha Song Yang District, Tak Province, Thailand

Taeniasis remains a prevalent public health problem in Thailand. National helminthiasis surveys report only the incidence of Taenia spp. eggs. The ability to differentiate Taenia species using morphological and molecular techniques is vital for epidemiological surveys. This study detected taeniasis carriers and other helminthic infections by Kato's thick smear technique and identified the Taenia species by multiplex PCR. The study subjects were the ethnic Karen people in Tha Song Yang District, Tak Province, Thailand, bordering Myanmar. In total, 983 faecal samples from villagers were examined for helminthiases. Interview-based questionnaires were used to gather information on possible risk factors for infection. The prevalence of helminth infections was 42.7% (420/983), including single (37.3%, 367/983) and mixed infections (5.4%, 53/983). The most common infection (19.23%, 189/983) was Ascaris lumbricoides, whereas taeniasis carriers comprised 2.8% (28/983). Multiplex PCR of Cox1 was used for species identification of Taenia tapeworms, eggs, or both in 22 taeniasis carriers. Most of the parasites (20 cases) were Taenia solium, with two cases of Taenia saginata. Taenia saginata asiatica was not found in the villagers examined. The analysis of 314 completed questionnaires showed that a statistically significant (p < 0.05) risk of taeniasis was correlated with being male, a history of being allowed to forage during childhood, a history of seeing tapeworm proglottids, and a history of raw or undercooked pork consumption. Health education programmes must seek to reduce and prevent reinfection in these communities.

Metabolic syndrome is associated to an increased risk of low bone mineral density in free-living women with suspected osteoporosis

PURPOSE

Osteoporosis (Op) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are two common disorders showing common pathogenic patterns. This cross-sectional study was performed to evaluate if MetS and its constitutive elements are associated to an increased risk of low bone mineral density (BMD) in free-living women examined by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for suspected Op.

METHODS

13,182 free-living Caucasian women referring to "COMEGEN" general practitioners cooperative operating in Naples, Italy, performed a contextual evaluation of BMD by DXA and all MetS constitutive elements (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, serum levels of triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and fasting glucose) between June 1st 2008 and May 31st 2018. Subjects aged less than 40 years or with signs or symptoms suggestive of secondary Op were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

MetS is associated to an increased risk of low BMD (Odds Ratio 1.19; 95% Confidence Interval 1.08-1.31). Among MetS constitutive elements, hypertension was associated to increased risk of low BMD, whereas high fasting glucose level/diabetes were associated to reduced risk of low BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

The significant association between Op and MetS in free-living women examined by DXA for suspected Op suggests the advisability of a contextual evaluation of both disorders in this setting.

Parascaris spp. eggs in horses of Italy: a large-scale epidemiological analysis of the egg excretion and conditioning factors

Background

Equine ascariosis, caused by Parascaris spp., is a worldwide endoparasitic disease affecting young horses in particular. Despite the great number of horses reared in Italy, large-scale epidemiological surveys dealing with ascariosis prevalence in the country are not reported in the current literature. For this reason, the present survey aims to describe, for the first time, the spread and infestation of Parascaris spp. in a large population of Italian horses (6896 animals) using faecal egg counts, and further to identify risk factors associated with ascarid egg shedding.

Methods

Individual rectal faecal samples collected during routine veterinary examinations were used and Parascaris spp. prevalence was tested against the animal’s age, sex, housing conditions, geographic provenance as well as the respective sampling season.

Results

Among the examined stables, 35.8% showed at least one horse to be positive for Parascaris spp. eggs and an overall prevalence of 6.3% was found. Ascariosis rates tended to decrease significantly with age and, proportionally, 80.0% of the recorded Parascaris spp. eggs were found in 0.7% of the examined animals. Statistically significant differences among prevalence rates were found between the different geographic areas of provenance and prevalence was found to be higher in horses reared outdoors compared to those raised indoors. Analysis of data based on sex and season did not show any significant differences. Despite the lower prevalence found compared to other European countries, ascariosis was concluded to represent a significant health challenge for horses reared in Italy, especially foals. Age (foals and yearlings) and outdoor rearing were identified to be significant risk factors for Parascaris spp. egg shedding. Furthermore, the relevance of the infected horses over 6 years of age should not be underestimated as these represent a significant source of contamination for younger animals.

Conclusions

The development of improved treatment protocols based on regular faecal examination combined with follow-up assessment of the efficacy of integrated action plans would prove beneficial in regard to animal health and anthelmintic resistance reduction in the field.

Graphic Abstract

Prevalence of mental disorders, suicidal ideation and suicides in the general population before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway: A population-based repeated cross-sectional analysis

Background

Self-report data on mental distress indicate a deterioration of population mental health in many countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. A Norwegian epidemiological diagnostic psychiatric interview survey was conducted from January to September 2020, allowing for comparison of mental disorder and suicidal ideation prevalence from before through different pandemic periods. Prevalence of suicide deaths were compared between 2020 and 2014-2018.

Methods

Participants from the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) in Trondheim were recruited through repeated probability sampling. Using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 5.0) (n = 2154), current prevalence of mental disorders and suicidal ideation was examined in repeated cross-sectional analyzes. Data on suicide deaths was retrieved from the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry and compared for the months March to May in 2014-2018 and 2020.

Findings

Prevalence of current mental disorders decreased significantly from the pre-pandemic period (January 28th to March 11th 2020; 15•3% (95% CI 12•4-18•8)) to the first pandemic period (March 12th - May 31st; 8•7% (6•8-11•0)). Prevalences were similar between the pre-pandemic period and the interim (June 1st July 31st; 14•2% (11•4-17•5)) and second periods (August 1st-September 18th; 11•9% (9•0-15•6)). No significant differences were observed in suicidal ideation or in suicide deaths.

Interpretation

Except for a decrease in mental disorders in the first pandemic period, the findings suggest stable levels of mental disorders, suicidal ideation and suicide deaths during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. Potential methodological and contextual explanations of these findings compared with findings from other studies are discussed.

Funding

None.

Epidemiological study of injuries caused by violence and conflict in forensic medical records of selected cities of Sistan and Baluchistan province in 2020

Background and Aims

Interpersonal violence is a socially traumatic and unpleasant phenomenon. These violence-related injuries are sometimes irreparable and can become a permanent problem, Violence in Iran is one of the five most socially harmed and has increased dramatically in recent years, therefore the present research aimed to investigate epidemiological study of injuries caused by violence and conflict in forensic medical records of selected cities of Sistan and Baluchistan province in 2020 considering this subject must be one of our priorities.

Methods

This study was a descriptive study performed in forensic medicine centers of two cities in Sistan and Baluchistan province, Iran. The population consisted of existing citations and records, sample size based on similar studies and the recommendation of professors, all available records were considered and census method was used to select the samples. The data gathering tool consisted of two sections: demographic information and violence and conflict. Content validity method and reliability test were used to determine the validity and reliability. Data were analyzed using SPSS24 software.

Results

The results showed that the majority of the sample was 20-29 years old, male, married, self-employed and high school graduated, living in the eastern part of the city, with no history of mental illness, domestic violence, child abuse, and spouse abuse. The majority of the study units did not use any drugs. The most violent were beatings and bullying. It included several organs such as limbs, soft tissue damage with bleeding.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate the importance of epidemiological analysis of violence and conflict in the provinces under study and show that appropriate solutions and culture building, as well as increasing awareness of the impact of violence and conflict on individuals and their injuries.

Outbreak of Mycoplasma pneumoniae at a military academy

In 2019, an outbreak of Mycoplasma pneumoniae occurred at a military academy in China. The attack rate (10.08%,60/595) was significantly different among the units. High-intensity training and crowded environments to which cadets are exposed are the high risk factors for the outbreak of M. pneumoniae. In-time prevention and control measures effectively controlled the spread of the epidemic.

Osteoporosis is a Predictive Factor for Nephrolithiasis in an Adult Free-Living Caucasian Population From Southern Italy: A Longitudinal Retrospective Study Based on a General Practice Database

Osteoporosis and nephrolithiasis are common multifactorial disorders with high incidence and prevalence in the adult population worldwide. Both are associated with high morbidity and mortality if not correctly diagnosed and accurately treated. Nephrolithiasis is considered a risk factor for reduced bone mineral density. Aim of this retrospective longitudinal study was to evaluate if osteoporosis is a predictive factor for the nephrolithiasis occurrence. Free-living subjects referring to "COMEGEN" general practitioners cooperative operating in Naples, Southern Italy. Twelve thousand seven hundred ninety-four Caucasian subjects (12,165 female) who performed bone mineral density by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and have a negative personal history for nephrolithiasis. Subjects aged less than 40 years or with signs or symptoms suggestive of secondary osteoporosis were excluded from the study. In a mean lapse of time of 19.5 months, 516 subjects had an incident episode of nephrolithiasis. Subjects with osteoporosis had an increased risk of nephrolithiasis than subjects without osteoporosis (Hazard Ratio = 1.33, 95% Confidence Interval 1.01-1.74, p = 0.04). Free-living adult subjects over the age of 40 with idiopathic osteoporosis have an increased risk of incident nephrolithiasis, suggesting the advisability of appropriate investigation and treatment of the metabolic alterations predisposing to nephrolithiasis in patients with osteoporosis. The study protocol was approved by the ASL Napoli 1 Ethical Committee, protocol number 0018508/2018.

Survey of the current status of subclinical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

OBJECTIVES

We investigated relationships between subclinical COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) and background factors.

METHODS

We determined SARS-CoV-2 antibody (IgG) prevalence in 1603 patients, doctors, and nurses in 65 medical institutions in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan and investigated their background factors. Antibodies (IgG) against SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed by Immunochromatographic test.

RESULTS

The 39 subjects (2.4%) were found to be IgG antibody-positive: 29 in the patient group (2.9%), 10 in the doctor/nurse group (2.0%), and 0 in the control group. After adjustment for age, sex, and the antibody prevalence in the control group, antibody prevalence was 2.7% in the patient group and 2.1% in the doctor/nurse group. There was no significant difference between the antibody-positive subjects and the antibody-negative subjects in any background factors investigated including overseas travel, contact with overseas travelers, presence/absence of infected individuals in the living area, use of trains 5 times a week or more, BCG vaccination, and use of ACE inhibitor and ARB.

CONCLUSIONS

Antibody prevalence in the present survey at medical institution is higher than that in Tokyo and in Osaka measured by the government suggesting that subclinical infections are occurring more frequently than expected. No background factor that influenced antibody-positive status due to subclinical infection was identified.

Prevalence of MIH in children aged 12 to 15 years in Beijing, China

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the prevalence of molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) in children aged 12 to 15 years in Beijing, China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was performed to recruit children aged 12 to 15 years old based on the method of multi-stage cluster random sampling during the Fourth National Oral Health Survey in Beijing, China, from September 2015 to March 2016. The first permanent molars (FPMs) and permanent incisors were examined for the presence of MIH by a single-calibrated examiner according to the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD) criteria.

RESULTS

Of the 6523 children recruited, 655 (10.0%) had MIH. The average number of affected MIH teeth in children was 2.68 ± 1.51. There was no gender-specific difference. With respect to the distribution of MIH in the mandible and maxilla, the most common condition was the simultaneous involvement of both the upper and lower FPMs. The severity of MIH was positively correlated with the number of affected teeth. The prevalence of MIH was lower in children who resided in the central districts and whose mothers had received higher education.

CONCLUSION

MIH was relatively prevalent among children aged 12 to 15 years old in Beijing, China.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study is the first epidemiological survey on the prevalence of MIH in the pediatric population in North China. Some demographic and sociological factors were associated with the presence of MIH.

Contribution to the echinococcosis control programme in China by NIPD-CTDR

As a zoonotic parasitosis caused by the parasitism of Echinococcus larvae, echinococcosis imposes serious disease and economic burdens on human beings and society, and is thus a global public health issue. Its complex life history, wide distribution, the combined influence of various epidemic factors, coupled with the unique natural environment, customs, and religious beliefs in endemic areas, pose a huge challenge to the national echinococcosis control programme in China. Accurate early detection and confirmation of diagnosis of echinococcosis, the use of effective drugs, real-time surveillance of the infection status of populations and various hosts, controlling the source of infection, and blocking the route of transmission are of enormous significance for control. In this paper, the work by NIPD-CTDR on the prevention and control of echinococcosis in China is reviewed, with a view to providing reference for the further promotion of the national echinococcosis control programme.

A 6-year survey of road traffic accidents in Southwest China: Emphasis on traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to provide an up-to-date overview of the patterns of injuries, especially traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by RTAs and to discuss some of the public health consequences.

METHODS

A scientific team was established to collect road traffic accidents occurring between 2013 and 2018 in Chongqing, Southwest China. For each accident, the environment-, vehicle-, and person- variables were analyzed and determined. The overall injury distribution and TBI patterns of four types of road users (driver, passenger, motorcyclist and pedestrian) were compared. The environmental and time distribution of accidents with TBI were shown by bar and pie chart. The risks of severe brain injury whether motorcyclist wearing helmets or not were compared and the risk factors of severe TBI in pedestrian were determined by odds ratio analysis.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 2131 accidents with 2741 persons of all kind of traffic participants, 1149 of them suffered AIS1+ head injury and 1598(58%) died in 7 days. The most common cause of deaths is due to head injury with 714(85%) and 1266(79%) persons died within 2 hours. Among 423 persons suffered both skull fracture and intracranial injury, 102 (24.1%) have an intracranial injury but no skull fractures, while none of the skull fractures without intracranial injury was found. Besides, motorcyclists without a helmet were at higher risks for all the brain injury categories. The risk of pedestrian suffering severe TBI at an impact speed of more than 70 km/h is 100 times higher than that with an impact speed of less than 40 km/h.

CONCLUSION

It is urgently needed to develop a more reliable brain injury evaluation criterion for better protection of the road users. We believe that strengthening the emergency care to head injury at the scene is the most effective way to reduce traffic fatality.

Knowledge of endometrial cancer risk factors in a general gynecologic population

OBJECTIVES

To determine knowledge regarding endometrial cancer (EC) risk factors in a general gynecologic patient population.

STUDY DESIGN

A questionnaire survey regarding health behaviors and knowledge of risk factors of EC was administered to patients presenting for routine gynecologic care at two general gynecologic practices affiliated with a tertiary-care center between August and October 2014. Patient demographics, lifestyle information, and knowledge regarding EC risk factors were assessed. Data were analyzed using univariable and bivariable analyses, Χ² tests, Fischer's exact tests, and t-tests.

RESULTS

231 women responded. Median age was 56 years old (IQR 25-64), and 87% were Caucasian. Median BMI was 24.9 (IQR 22.3-29.2). 24.7% were overweight and 24.3% obese. The majority (69.4%) of patients received a college or graduate degree. Over half of the women (52.1%) did not know that obesity was associated with increased risk of EC. When dichotomized based on obese vs non obese, there was no difference in patients' knowledge of the association between obesity and EC (47% vs 48%, respectively, p = .93). 91% of all respondents reported that their gynecologist or primary care physician had never discussed the risks of EC with them.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of education level, age or obesity status, the majority of women did not know the common risks of EC. Increased efforts towards educating women regarding obesity and other risk factors of EC are necessary in order to reduce the rising incidence of EC, a predominantly obesity-driven disease. Interventions must include general obstetrician-gynecologists and primary care providers.

Factors associated with low handgrip strength in older people: data of the Study of Chronic Diseases (Edoc-I)

BACKGROUND

Handgrip strength (HGS) is an important health biomarker whose low scores have been shown to be associated with the morbimortality. This study aimed to analyze the factors associated with low HGS in older people in Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil.

METHODS

The study was carried out with data from the Study of Chronic Diseases (EDOC-I) - Older People, a cross-sectional household PAPI probability sample survey performed with 1016 people aged over 60 residing in Rio Branco in 2014. The low HGS was defined by the 20th percentile of the maximum HGS by sex and age group. Associations between variables of health status (psychological and physical) and low HGS, by sex, were estimated using logistic regression, expressed by adjusted ORs (aOR).

RESULTS

Older individuals had lower median HGS than younger individuals (- 6.0 kg among men and - 2.6 kg among women). Women aged over 80 had, on average, the lower quintile of HGS compared to women of the previous age groups. Factors independently associated with low HGS in men and women, respectively, were low weigh in body mass index [(aOR = 2.80; 95%CI: 1.19, 6.61) and (aOR = 2.61; 95%CI: 1.46, 4.66)], anemia [(aOR = 4.15; 95%CI: 2.09, 8.21) and (aOR = 1.80; 95%CI: 1.06, 3.06)] and diabetes as a risk factor in men (aOR 1.95; 95%CI: 1.00, 3.81). There was a higher chance of low HGS in men with partners (aOR = 2.44; 95%CI: 1.32, 4.51), smokers or former smokers (aOR = 3.25; 95%CI: 1.25, 8.44), with current self-assessment of health worse than the 12 previous months (aOR = 2.21; 95%CI: 1.14, 4.30) and dependence in activities of daily living (aOR = 2.92; 95%CI: 1.35, 6.30). Only among women, there was an increased chance of low HGS associated with altered waist-to-hip ratio (aOR = 1.79; 95%CI: 1.02, 3.12), insomnia (aOR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.10, 3.03) and physical activity from displacement/occupation (aOR = 1.75; 95%CI: 1.08, 2.84).

CONCLUSION

Factors associated with low HGS are not the same between sexes, and the inclusion of HGS as a component of health assessment seems to be a promising strategy for disease prevention and health promotion.

Molecular epidemiology and genetic variation analyses of porcine circovirus type 2 isolated from Yunnan Province in China from 2016-2019

BACKGROUND

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is the causative agent of porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD). Its prevalence in swine herds was first reported in China in 2000. PCV2 infection causes immunosuppression that leads to multiple diseases, causing serious economic problems for the swine industry in China. Since information on the genetic variation of PCV2 in Yunnan province is limited, this study aims to investigate the molecular epidemiological and evolutionary characteristics of PCV2 from 2016 to 2019.

METHODS

A total of 279 clinical samples were collected from different regions of Yunnan between 2016 to 2019, and PCV2 was detected by PCR. We then amplified full genomes from the positive samples, and the sequences were analysed for homology and genetic evolution.

RESULTS

Overall, 60.93% (170/279) of the screened swine herd samples were positive for PCV2. We sequenced 15 Yunnan province PCV2 strains from positive samples. Analyses of the complete genomes and Cap genes led to the classification of the 15 Yunnan PCV2 strains into PCV2a (2 of 15), PCV2b (1of 15) and PCV2d (12 of 15). All strains shared 94.3-99.9% of their identities with the nucleotide sequences of complete genomes in this study and shared 94.2-99.9% identity with the reference sequences. All strains share 89.4-100% and 86.8-100% of their identities with the nucleotide and amino acid (aa) sequences of Cap, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study provide evidence that PCV2a, PCV2b and PCV2d genotypes coexisted in Yunnan Province from 2016 to 2019, and the priority prevalence genotype was PCV2d. The data provide evidence for the increased genetic diversity and insights into the molecular epidemiology of PCV2. This study also provides basic data for the Yunnan province PCV2 molecular epidemiological survey and accumulates effective materials for the development of PCV2 vaccines.

Epidemiological investigation of feline infectious peritonitis in cats living in Harbin, Northeast China from 2017 to 2019 using a combination of an EvaGreen-based real-time RT-PCR and serum chemistry assays

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is caused by the FIP virus (FIPV), a highly virulent mutant form of feline coronavirus (FCoV). This disease is one of the most important infectious diseases in cats, and it is associated with high mortality, particularly among younger cats. In this study, we isolated a wild-type FIPV HRB-17 epidemic strain from the blood sample of household pet cat exhibiting the characteristic wet-form FIP symptoms, which has been confirmed further by animal infection. Further, we developed an EvaGreen-based real-time RT-PCR assay for the accurate detection of FCoV based on the amplification of the highly conserved FIPV N gene. Then, using a combination of the real-time RT-PCR approach and a serum chemistry assay, we performed an epidemiological survey of FIPV infection in cats living in Harbin City, Northeast China. The results indicated that the EvaGreen-based real-time RT-PCR assay can be used for screening FCoV infection in the affected cats at an analytical detection limit of 8.2 × 10¹ viral genome copies/μL, but could not effectively distinguish FIPVs from FECVs. Additionally, the results of the epidemiological survey investigating feline blood samples (n = 1523) collected between July 2017 to July 2019 revealed an FIPV prevalence of approximately 12% (189/1523). Maybe, the prevalence would be less than 12% due to the real-time RT-PCR assay could not accurately differentiate FIPV and FECV. Nevertheless, it still highlighted the severity of the FIP epidemic in cats and reiterated the urgent need to develop effective anti-FIP therapeutic agents and anti-FIPV vaccines. As pet cats are household animals, risk communication and continuous region-extended surveillance cat programs are recommended.

The last 10 years: any changes in perceptions of the seriousness of alcohol, cannabis, and substance use in Canada?

Background

Over the last decade, there have been a number of changes in the Canadian landscape - the deconstruction of alcohol policy in some provinces, the legalization of cannabis, increased availability of gambling options, and the increase in opioid use and its associated problems. Have there been concomitant changes in societal images of addictions?

Methods

A general population survey on societal images of addictions was conducted in multiple countries in 2008 - Finland, Sweden, Canada (Canadian sample size: N = 864; 40% response rate), and part of Russia (St Petersburg). We repeated the same survey in 2018 in Canada (N = 813; response rate = 23%). The survey assessed perceptions of the seriousness of different issues to society - including items about alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, gambling, misuse of medical drugs, and drugs like amphetamine, cocaine, or heroin - among other items (e.g., pollution, violent crime, prostitution).

Results

There were increases in perceptions of the seriousness of misuse of medical drugs (p = .001), of illicit drugs (p = .005), ratings of the seriousness of cannabis use (p = .02), and a decrease in ratings of gambling as a social problem (p = .04). Ratings of the seriousness of alcohol and tobacco as social problems did not display significant changes over time (p > .05).

Conclusions

There has been some variation in societal perceptions of the seriousness of different addictions. Increases in perceptions of the seriousness of misusing medical drugs and the use of illicit drugs may reflect increases in societal concerns about opioid use and its associated problems. Despite substantial changes in alcohol control policies, the legalization of cannabis, and the increased availability of options for gambling, there appears to be very little associated change in societal perceptions regarding these addictive behaviours.

Alergológica 2015: A National Survey on Allergic Diseases in the Spanish Pediatric Population

BACKGROUND

Allergic diseases are highly prevalent in industrialized populations. In Spain, children suspected of having an allergic disease are usually referred by their primary care pediatrician to an allergy unit at a general hospital or a children's hospital. We report data from a subanalysis of the pediatric population in Alergológica 2015.

METHODS

Data were collected from pediatric patients (age, ≤14 years) consulting an allergist for the first time in 2014 and the first quarter of 2015 in order to determine variations compared with data reported in Alergológica 2005.

RESULTS

Alergológica 2015 included fewer pediatric patients than Alergológica 2005. The study population comprised 481 patients aged ≤14 years from more than 200 centers throughout Spain. Males accounted for 56.5%. Rhinoconjunctivitis was the main reason for consulting an allergist (53.8% vs 46.3% in 2005), followed by asthma (30.2% vs 34.6%), and food allergy (20.0% vs 14.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of Alergológica 2015 show a notable increased frequency of allergic rhinitis, drug allergy, and food allergy. The frequency of other allergic conditions remained unchanged, except for asthma, whose frequency decreased, as in adult patients.

[Epidemiological survey on clonorchiasis and awareness of prevention and control knowledge in Xinfeng County of Jiangxi Province]

OBJECTIVE

To understand the epidemic status of clonorchiasis and awareness of prevention and control knowledge in Xinfeng County of Jiangxi Province, so as to provide the evidences for control measures.

METHODS

The baseline survey was carried out with a clue in vestigation of raw-fish eating behavior in potential endemic areas in 2016.The residents were examined by stool tests. The metacercariae of Clonorchis sinensis in fish, the rediae and cercariae in freshwater mollusk were detected. The feces samples of cats, dogs and pigs were collected and examined by sedimentation technique. Meanwhile, the epidemic factors, health knowledge and behavior were also surveyed.

RESULTS

The residents in 26 villages had the habit of eating raw freshwater fish, and 19.51% of the respondents had this habit. The average infection rates of the population, Parafossarulus striatulus, freshwater fishes and reservoir hosts were 21.56%, 0, 8.24% and 2.27%, respectively. The infection rate of the population increased with age. There was a significant positive correlation between the behavior and the infection rate of the population (r = 0.88, P < 0.01). Only 11.46% of the respondents knew that eating raw-fish might cause C. sinensis infection, and 5.28% of them knew that C. sinensis was harmful to health.

CONCLUSIONS

Twenty-six villages in five townships were endemic areas of clonorchiasis in Xinfeng County. The permanent solution of prevention and control of clonorchiasis is to strengthen the health education and change the habit of raw-fish eating gradually.

Four seasons of Czech asthma study: asthma characteristics and management reality in the Czech Republic

Objective: To describe the characteristics and management of asthma in clinical practice in the Czech Republic in the context of international guidelines and clinical realities.Methods: Data were collected over four seasons from summer 2016 to spring 2017 and are mostly presented using descriptive statistics.Results: We obtained valid data for 4557 adult patients with asthma, including detailed phenotyping (71% eosinophilic allergic, 10% eosinophilic non-allergic, 19% non-eosinophilic non-allergic asthma) from 58 allergologists and 56 pulmonologists. The average time to diagnosis was 3 years. In more than half of the subjects, bronchodilator testing (BDT) results were available at primary diagnosis. More than 10% of physicians did not test for mold allergy. Occupational asthma was diagnosed in 0.7% of subjects. According to the attending physician, 68% of patients had well-controlled and 10% had uncontrolled asthma. Ninety-four percent of patients were on preventive treatment, with 91% using an inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) at an average dose of 705 µg/day budesonide equivalent. Approximately 75% of patients were on an ICS/LABA, with 91% using fixed combinations. Among patients using ICS/formoterol, a maintenance and reliever therapy regime was prescribed in 67%.Conclusions: The quality of asthma management in the Czech Republic is comparable to that of other developed countries and better in some respects (frequent BDT, phenotyping, and use of preventive treatment). Nevertheless, there is unnecessary delay in diagnosis and lack of research on possible environmental causes (workplace, molds). Pharmacotherapy shows good adherence to guidelines. Although 10% of patients show poor control, there is concurrently a trend for overtreatment.

Epidemiology of Malocclusion in 3,491 Subjects Attending Public Dental Service in Rome (Italy): Evaluation of the Orthodontic Treatment Need Index

AIM

The objective of this epidemiological survey is to investigate the dental-skeletal features of subjects attending the Public Dental Service in Unità Operativa Complessa (UOC) (Orthodontic Department of "La Sapienza University of Rome") and compare them with the existing body of evidence obtained from other surveys. Accordingly, the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) was employed, in order to achieve a common framework to allow the shaping of public health prevention practices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A sample of 3,491 subjects in the Orthodontic Department of "La Sapienza-University of Rome" (UOC) was evaluated with the adoption of IOTN to define malocclusion severity.

RESULTS

In the result analysis, it was observed that class II malocclusion was more frequent in the sample (40%), and a large part of the examined population also presented mandibular dental crowding (43%), increased overjet (41%), and increased overbite (38%). Only 26.44% (20.17% IOTN 4; 6.27% IOTN 5) had strong need for orthodontic treatment.

CONCLUSION

The realization of epidemiological investigations to establish priority for treatment need is, therefore, particularly useful, not only to estimate the prevalence of some clinical conditions in the observed population, but also to plan targeted interventions, such as interceptive and corrective therapies in growing children.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

These interventions could solve specific clinical situations and/or prevent their escalation. Only in this way, it is possible to avoid fragmentation of the limited resources available, using them for patients with an objective need.

Development of a method to extract protozoan DNA from black soil

Objectives

Microorganisms in environmental samples are identified by sequential screening, isolation, and culture steps, followed by the verification of physiological characteristics and morphological classification. Isolation and purification of Amoebae from soil samples is extremely complex, laborious, and time-consuming and require considerable expertise for morphological evaluation. PCR testing of soil DNA seems to be an effective means for protozoa habitat screening. In this study, we added Acanthamoeba sp. (MK strain) to soil and developed a method of extracting protozoan DNA from the soil.

Methods

Soil allophane is a known DNA adsorbing substance that inhibits the PCR reaction. After comparing the soil properties and allophane contents of 7 soil samples, we attempted to combine multiple cell disruption and DNA purification methods to design an optimal soil DNA extraction method that can be used for downstream PCR analysis.

Results

We compared five different crushing/refining methods. Amplification of the gene was confirmed by Acanthamoeba specific PCR in protocol V where the concentration of Acanthamoeba in soil (1.0 × 10²/g) was the detection limit of PCR.

Conclusion

The soil DNA extraction method following protocol V allows DNA amplification of protozoa, including Amoeba, which is difficult to cultivate, thus simplifying the investigation of protozoa habitats and genetic analyses.

Surveillance of Hepatitis Viruses in Several Small Islands of Japan by Ship: A Public Health Approach for Elimination of Hepatitis Viruses by 2030

Aim

In 1990, an epidemiological survey by ship in some Japanese islands revealed high prevalence of hepatitis viruses and human T cell leukemia virus (HTLV). A second prevalence study of these viruses were accomplished in 2018, 28 years after initial survey. Analysis of these studies provide insights about strategies of elimination of hepatitis viruses at remote areas.

Materials and methods

In 2018, prevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and HTLV was checked in 305 subjects in the islands those covered in 1990's survey. Hepatitis A virus was checked by the presence of anti-HAV IgG in sera; HBV was affirmed when hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in sera. Hepatitis C virus infection was evaluated by the presence of antibody to HCV (anti-HCV) and infection with HTLV was estimated by immunoassay. The methodology of assessment of different hepatitis viruses were optimized on the basis of present scientific knowhow.

Results

In 1990, the prevalence of HAV (presence of anti-HAV), HBV (presence of HBsAg), HCV (positivity for anti-HCV), and HTLV was found in 79.3%, 11.1%, 2.2%, and 3.3% of apparently health subjects of the islands, respectively. The prevalence of HAV, HBV, HCV, and HTLV was 47.9%, 4.6%, 1.0%, and 3.0%, respectively, in 2018. A shift of age of infected persons tilted towards right as the days progressed.

Conclusion

The study indicates a scenario of elimination of hepatitis viruses in Japan as lower trends of prevalence of HAV, HBV, and HCV have been recorded in 2018 compared with 1990, mainly by preventive measures. The most notable finding is that there are almost no new case below the age of 40 years, indicating an effective containment measure against these viruses.

How to cite this article

Akao T, Onji M, Kawasaki K, et al. Surveillance of Hepatitis Viruses in Several Small Islands of Japan by Ship: A Public Health Approach for Elimination of Hepatitis Viruses by 2030. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2019;9(2):57–62.

[Epidemiological characteristics and related risk factors on placental abruption in Hebei province]

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors and epidemiological characteristics of placental abruption (PA) in Hebei province. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data on 218 880 pregnant women who were hospitalized in 22 hospitals which were under a monitoring program, in Hebei province, from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2016. Data regarding epidemiological characteristics as time distribution, population distribution and related risk factors of placental abruption were gathered and analyzed. Results: In this cohort study, 218 880 women were included, with 669 (0.31%) of the pregnant women having PA. The overall prevalence rates were higher in the South than in the north parts of the area and higher in more developed regional economic centers. The average age of women having the episode was (27.87±4.50) years and presented "J" distribution on the prevalence of maternal age. Results from the multivariate regression analysis showed that the following factors were independently at risk for placental abruption: pregnancy the including hypertension (OR=1.65, 95%CI: 1.09-2.50), mild preeclampsia (OR=3.65, 95%CI: 2.40-5.56), severe preeclampsia (OR=4.72, 95%CI: 3.86-5.76) and anemia (OR=2.41, 95%CI: 2.05-2.83) which were all increased in pregnant women with PA compared with the normal female population without placental abruption. Conclusions: Placental abruption seemed to be associated with a moderate increasing risk of age, and was seen higher in those population older than 35 or younger than 20 year-olds. It was suggested that appropriate inoculation programs should be taken in different regions, especially on high-risk groups. Health education on related disease was of great significance for improving the prenatal outcome.

Pre-analytical Factors Influence Accuracy of Urine Spot Iodine Assessment in Epidemiological Surveys

Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) is commonly used to assess iodine status of subjects in epidemiological surveys. As pre-analytical factors are an important source of measurement error and studies about this phase are scarce, our objective was to assess the influence of urine sampling conditions on UIC, i.e., whether the child ate breakfast or not, urine void rank of the day, and time span between last meal and urine collection. A nationwide, two-stage, stratified, cross-sectional study including 1560 children (6-12 years) was performed in 2012. UIC was determined by the Sandell-Kolthoff method. Pre-analytical factors were assessed from children's mothers by using a questionnaire. Association between iodine status and pre-analytical factors were adjusted for one another and socio-economic characteristics by multivariate linear and multinomial regression models (RPR: relative prevalence ratios). Skipping breakfast prior to morning urine sampling decreased UIC by 40 to 50 μg/L and the proportion of UIC < 100 μg/L was higher among children having those skipped breakfast (RPR = 3.2[1.0-10.4]). In unadjusted analyses, UIC was less among children sampled more than 5 h from their last meal. UIC decreased with rank of urine void (e.g., first vs. second, P < 0.001); also, the proportion of UIC < 100 μg/L was greater among 4th rank samples (vs. second RPR = 2.1[1.1-4.0]). Subjects' breakfast status and urine void rank should be accounted for when assessing iodine status. Providing recommendations to standardize pre-analytical factors is a key step toward improving accuracy and comparability of survey results for assessing iodine status from spot urine samples. These recommendations have to be evaluated by future research.

Epidemiological survey and sequence information analysis of swine hepatitis E virus in Sichuan, China

Hepatitis E is an important zoonosis that is prevalent in China. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a pathogen that affects humans and animals and endangers public health in China. In this study, the detection of HEV epidemics in swine in Sichuan Province, China, was carried out by nested real-time PCR. A total of 174 stool samples and 160 bile samples from swine in Sichuan Province were examined. In addition, software was used to analyse the biological evolution of HEV. The results showed that within 2 years of swine HEV (SHEV) infection in China, SHEV was first detected in Sichuan Province. HEV was endemic in Sichuan; the positive rate for pig farms was 11.1%, and the total positive sample rate was 10.5%. The age of swine with the highest positive rate (17.9%) was 5–9 weeks. The examined swine species in order of highest to lowest HEV infection rates were Chenghua pig, Large White, Duroc, Pietrain, Landrace and Hampshire. Nucleotide and amino acid sequence analysis showed that the HEV epidemic in swine in Sichuan Province was related to genotype IV, which had the highest homology to HEV in Beijing. Sichuan strains have greater variation than Chinese representative strains, which may indicate the presence of new HEV strains.

[Plasmodium falciparum infection by blood transfusion：a case report]

This paper reported one acute lymphoblastic leukemia patient who infected with Plasmodium falciparum after blood transfusion. Through the epidemiological investigation on this patient and the related blood donors as well as laboratory detections, the source of infection was ascertained. This blood donor was an overseas student from Africa, whose blood sample was positive in the rapid diagnostic test, and the results of microscopic examination of peripheral blood smear and PCR both suggested P. falciparum positive.

Risk factors of brucellosis (re-)incidence in sheep and goat flocks in an endemic area of Portugal

This study aimed to determinate the main risk factors of brucellosis recurrence or highest animal incidence in flocks, under pastoralism, in an endemic area of Northeast Portugal. An epidemiological survey was performed on 25 recurrent (n = 18) or highest seropositive (n = 7) sheep and mixed goat flocks and 19 historical (≥ 10 years) brucellosis-free flock, between 2014 and 2017, within the same epidemiological area presenting an average annual incidence around 6%. According to the multivariable logistic model (P < 0.001), the lack of neighboring brucellosis-free flocks (odds ratio OR = 7.79; CI % 1.49-65.06), the occurrence of more than 50% of lambing or kidding in common paths and pastures (OR = 24.17; CI % 3.0-606.54), and the animal replacement with Rev.1 non-vaccinated young animals (OR = 18.47; CI % 2.54-408.21) were the causes that influence the recurrence and highest animal incidence in flocks. In extensive production systems, the confinement of the peri-parturient and the small ruminant replacement with Rev.1 vaccinated young females seems to play a major role on brucellosis control and eradication.

Prevalence of food allergy in Vietnam: comparison of web-based with traditional paper-based survey

Background

Web-based surveys (WBS) are increasingly applied in epidemiological studies as an appealing alternative to traditional survey methods. Rapid data collection, reduced expenditure and ease of access to large populations are some of the clear advantages of online surveys. However, WBS are still subject to limitations in terms of sample size, response rate and other additional biases compared to traditional survey methods. In the present study, we seek to validate data on food allergy (FA) in two independent sample populations collected from a WBS, and compare it to a paper-based survey (PBS).

Methods

Data collected from two survey modes were compared by hypothesis testing for independent sample population. The WBS included 1185 respondents, while the PBS included 9039 respondents.

Results

Overall, the data from the WBS were comparable to the PBS conducted over the same period of time in Vietnamese adults. There were no effects of different survey modes on the lifetime prevalence of doctor-diagnosed FA (5.7%; P = 0.7795, β = 0.05) and IgE-mediated FA (5.8%; P = 0.9590, β = 0.05). Both surveys showed the dominance of seafood allergy in this population (up to 2.6%), followed by beef allergy. Close correlation was seen in the patterns of FAs and different clinical symptoms. The contribution of family history of allergic diseases and place of residence to FA were confirmed in both surveys.

Conclusions

The consistency of the WBS results with the PBS indicates a promising application of online surveys as an economic and validated model for future epidemiological studies, specifically in developing countries.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s40413-018-0195-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

12-month prevalence and concomitants of DSM-IV depression and anxiety disorders in two violence-prone cities in Brazil

BACKGROUND

Estimating 12-month prevalence of depression, anxiety, and comorbid anxiety/depression in noninstitutionalized adults (age 15-75) in two violence-prone cities.

METHODS

The Composite International Diagnostic Interview v2.1 (Portuguese), administered in population-representative surveys (age 15-75) in São Paulo (N = 2536) and Rio de Janeiro (N = 1208), yielded 12-month prevalence of violent events experienced, and DSM-IV diagnoses of depression and anxiety, which were classified into mutually exclusive groups: 1) no anxiety/depression; 2) anxiety only; 3) depression only; 4) comorbid anxiety/depression. Weighted analyses estimated 12-month prevalence, multinomial logistic regression compared the demographic characteristics of the diagnosis groups, and association with experienced violence.

RESULTS

Twelve-month prevalence of anxiety alone, depression alone, and comorbid anxiety/depression was 12.7% (of whom 24.9% were also depressed), 4.9% (of whom 46.2% had anxiety), and 4.2% respectively for São Paulo; and 12.1% (18.2% of whom were depressed), 4.6% (37.0% with anxiety), and 2.7% respectively for Rio de Janeiro. All conditions were approximately twice as prevalent in women than in men in both cities. In São Paulo, comorbidity was associated with age under 60, depression alone was more prevalent among 30-59 year olds, but in 23-29 year-olds in Rio de Janeiro. Exposure to violence increased the odds of anxiety, depression, and their comorbidity. With rare exception, marital status, education, and race/ethnicity were not associated with anxiety, depression, or their comorbidity.

LIMITATIONS

Cross-sectional design.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence rates for all conditions were high, and particularly associated with exposure to violence. Means to ameliorate violence, and its mental health effects, particularly for women, are needed.

Molecular epidemiological survey of canine parvovirus in domestic dogs in four provinces, China

Canine parvovirus (CPV) can cause severe disease in animals, especially in dogs, and continuously generates new variants. In this study, the complete VP2 genes of 59 CPV isolates from clinical diseased dogs between 2015 and 2016 in 4 Chinese provinces were sequenced and analyzed. The results showed that new CPV-2a was still the prominent CPV genotype, followed by CPV-2c and new CPV-2b. CPV-2c with Ala5Gly and Gln370Arg mutations was first detected in Henan, Guangxi and Jiangsu provinces in China. A phylogenetic tree based on VP2 sequences showed that all isolates in this study formed a close lineage which separated from foreign isolates. The above results indicated that point mutations in VP2 were constantly occurring along with the widespread of CPV in China.

Association of Japanese cedar pollinosis and sensitization with HLA-DPB1 in the Japanese adolescent

BACKGROUND

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a heterogeneous disorder that significantly affects daily activity, work productivity, sleep, learning, and quality of life in all generations. Japanese cedar (JC) pollen is the most common allergen responsible for the development of AR in Japan. AR caused by JC pollen is considered to be a multifactorial inheritance disease that is caused by both environmental and genetic factors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Human Leukocyte Antigen-DPB1 (HLA-DPB1) is associated with JC sensitization/pollinosis.

METHODS

Subjects in the present study were 544 students at the University of Tsukuba from 2013 to 2015. PCR-SSOP was performed to determine each individual's HLA-DPB1 alleles. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine relationships between JC-related phenotypes and alleles/amino acid polymorphisms of HLA-DPB1.

RESULTS

HLA-DPB1*02 allele were significantly associated with both JC sensitization/pollinosis (q < 0.05). Furthermore, HLA-DPB1*02:01 and HLA-DPB1*02:02 had a protective tendency for JC sensitization/pollinosis, and HLA-DPB1*05:01 had a susceptible tendency for sensitization (P < 0.05). In amino acid polymorphism analyses, Glutamic acid in position 69, Glycine-Glycine-Proline-Methionine in positions 84-87, Threonine in position 170 and Methionine in position 205 were also observed to have a protective tendency for JC sensitization (P < 0.05). Amino acid positions 69 and 84-87 were located in binding pocket 5 and 1 of HLA-DPβ1, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Amino acid changes in the allergen-binding pocket of HLA-DPβ1 are likely to influence pollinosis/sensitization to the allergenic peptide of JC pollen and determine the pollinosis risk for each individual exposed to JC pollen.

A rare case of acute toxoplasmosis in a stray dog due to infection of T. gondii clonal type I: public health concern in urban settings with stray animals?

Background

Typing of Toxoplasma gondii strains is important in epidemiological surveys, to understand the distribution and virulence of different clones of the parasite among human and animal populations. Stray dogs can be consider sentinel animals for contaminated environments playing an important but probably under- evaluated role in the epidemiology of T. gondii. We reported a rare case of acute toxoplasmosis in a stray dog due to clonal type I infection. The clonal type I, sporadic in Europe, is frequently associated with severe toxoplasmosis in humans and the control of its circulation is particularly relevant for public health. The symptomatology suggested a potential infection with the high similar parasite Neospora caninum but differential diagnosis showed that only T. gondii was involved highlighting the importance of multiple diagnostic methods beyond the clinical signs.

Case presentation

A female stray dog approximately six-month of age presented muscular atrophy of the femoral region and hyperextension of hind limbs. Body condition score (BCS) was 20% below ideal weight, ribs had almost no fat and the sensor state was depressed. Haematological values were normal and the dog did not show any neurological abnormalities. Serological analysis showed a positive response for T. gondii immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies and exclude N. caninum infection.

To confirm T. gondii infection, a muscle biopsy was performed and genomic DNA was extracted. PCR analysis resulted positive to T. gondii and strain genotyping reveals clonal type I infection. The dog recovered after 4 weeks of treatment with clindamycin hydrochloride and aquatic physiotherapy.

Conclusions

Our study reports a rare and severe case of T. gondii clonal type I infection in a stray dog feeding in garbage containers. The data confirm the importance of an in vivo early diagnosis for toxoplasmosis in dog. Clinical signs are often related to specific T. gondii genotype and parasite genotyping is important in the epidemiological survey of toxoplasmosis in public health. The detection of parasitic DNA in the tissue could be an useful diagnostic method in facilitating early treatment of the disease, which is important for a timely clinical recovery.

Decreased Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in Jamaica

The purpose of this paper is to report the dramatic changes in the point prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the adult population of Jamaica following education intervention. The initial prevalence in the 15-and-over age group was determined by a two-stage stratified random sampling design in 1993. In 1997, the University of the West Indies Diabetes Outreach Project thru its public service arm, the Diabetes Association of Jamaica, developed and implemented a Peer Facilitators Diabetes Education Programme. This effort has realized an increased patient and public education as well as concomitant increased patient compliance and a reduction in related complications. The Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey 2008 examined, using a stratified, random, two-stage cluster sample survey, and a nationally representative sample of 2848 Jamaicans aged 15-74. The most dramatic outcome is the decrease in the prevalence from 17.9% to 7.9% in the adult population, age 15+.

Prevalence, correlates, comorbidity, and age of onset of alcohol use disorders in adult males from five provinces in China

BACKGROUND

This study integrates data from high-quality mental health surveys in five provinces in China to examine the prevalence, demographic correlates, age of onset, and comorbidity of alcohol use disorder (AUD).

METHODS

The five cross-sectional surveys initially screened a representative sample of 74,752 community-living adults (94% response rate) from a sampling population including over 12% of China's adult population. Psychiatrists then administered a detailed diagnostic exam to an enriched sample of 21,015 respondents (95% response rate). The prevalence of AUD in females in China is below 0.5%, so we limited our analysis to 9619 males who completed the diagnostic interview.

RESULTS

Using meta-analyses to summarize estimates across the five locations, the current (30-day) prevalence of AUD among adult Chinese males was 9.8% (95% CI=5.7-16.9%), but there was wide cross-province variation. After adjusting for age and other demographic variables, the prevalence of AUD was significantly lower in single men than in married men (OR=0.4, CI=0.2-0.7), lower in men who were not currently working than in men who were currently working (OR=0.7, CI=0.5-0.96), and lower in men with comorbid mental disorders than in men without comorbid mental disorders (OR=0.4, CI=0.2-0.8). The risk of developing AUD peaked at 30 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Substantial differences in the demographic correlates and age of onset of AUD in men in China compared to those reported in other countries highlight the importance of understanding the country-specific and region-specific profile of AUD before developing intervention and prevention strategies.