Food insufficiency and food insecurity as risk factors for physical disability among Palestinian refugees in Lebanon: Evidence from an observational study.

PubMed

Salti, Nisreen; Ghattas, Hala

2016-10-01

Potential interactions between malnutrition and disability are increasingly recognized, and both are important global health issues. Causal effects working from nutrition to disability and from disability back to nutrition present an empirical challenge to measuring either of these effects. However, disability affects nutrition whatever the cause of disability, whereas nutrition is likelier to affect disease-related disability than war- or work-related disability. This paper investigates the association of food insufficiency with the risk of physical disability. Data on disability by cause allow us to address the difficulty of reverse causality. Multinomial logit regressions of disability by cause on food insufficiency are run using survey data from 2010 on 2575 Palestinian refugee households in Lebanon. Controls include household sociodemographic, health and economic characteristics. Regressions of food insufficiency on disability by cause are also run. Disability has a significant coefficient in regressions of food insufficiency, whatever the cause of disability; but in regressions of disability on food insufficiency, food insufficiency is significant only for disease-related disability (log odds of disease-related disability .78 higher, p = .008). The difference in the results by cause of disability is evidence of a significant association between food insufficiency and disease-related disability, net of any reverse effect from disability to food access. The association between disease-related disability and food insufficiency is statistically significant suggesting that even taking into account feedback from disability to nutrition, nutrition is an effective level of intervention to avert the poverty-disability trap resulting from the impoverishing effect of disability. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A prospective study of low fasting glucose with cardiovascular disease events and all-cause mortality: The Women's Health Initiative.

PubMed

Mongraw-Chaffin, Morgana; LaCroix, Andrea Z; Sears, Dorothy D; Garcia, Lorena; Phillips, Lawrence S; Salmoirago-Blotcher, Elena; Zaslavsky, Oleg; Anderson, Cheryl A M

2017-05-01

While there is increasing recognition of the risks associated with hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, few studies have investigated incident cause-specific cardiovascular outcomes with regard to low fasting glucose in the general population. We hypothesized that low fasting glucose would be associated with cardiovascular disease risk and all-cause mortality in postmenopausal women. To test our hypothesis, we used both continuous incidence rates and Cox proportional hazards models in 17,287 participants from the Women's Health Initiative with fasting glucose measured at baseline. Participants were separated into groups based on fasting glucose level: low (<80mg/dL), normal/reference (80-99mg/dL), impaired (100-125mg/dL), and diabetic (≥126mg/dL). Participants were free of cardiovascular disease at enrollment, had mean age of 62years, and were 52% Caucasian, 24% African American, 8% Asian, and 12% Hispanic. Median follow-up was 15years. Graphs of continuous incidence rates compared to fasting glucose distribution exhibited evidence of a weak J-shaped association with heart failure and mortality that was predominantly due to participants with treated diabetes. Impaired and diabetic fasting glucose were positively associated with all outcomes. Associations for low fasting glucose differed, with coronary heart disease (HR=0.64 (0.42, 0.98)) significantly inverse; stroke (0.73 (0.48, 1.13)), combined cardiovascular disease (0.91 (0.73, 1.14)), and all-cause mortality (0.97 (0.79, 1.20)) null or inverse and not significant; and heart failure (1.27 (0.80, 2.02)) positive and not significant. Fasting glucose at the upper range, but not the lower range, was significantly associated with incident cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Factors associated to mortality by non-communicable diseases in Colombia, 2008-2012].

PubMed

Martínez, Julio Cesar

2016-12-01

Non-communicable diseases are the leading cause of premature mortality and disability in the world. To describe the trend pattern and to explore which risk factors were associated with mortality rates in Colombia from 2008 to 2012. A descriptive study was conducted to analyze mortality rate trends from the official vital statistics (death certificates) from 2008 to 2012. Between 2008 and 2012 there were 727,146 deaths due to non-communicable diseases, and 58.5% of them occurred among men aged less than 75 years. The mortality rate during the study period was 319.5 deaths per 100,000 people. The trend showed a statistically significant decline in mortality rates (-3%) across the country. For each woman who died due to external causes (i.e., not related to illness or old age), five men died under the same circumstances (OR=5,295; IC 95%: 5,143-5,454). The five most important causes of mortality were heart diseases, injuries due to aggressions, malignant tumors, chronic lower respiratory diseases and road traffic accidents. The cause of death differed significantly by sex and age. The main causes of death in Colombia were heart diseases and injuries (homicide). Mortality was higher among men of all ages than among women, but 15 to 45 year-old males were more likely to die due to external causes.

Measuring the Burden of Hospitalization in Patients with Parkinson´s Disease in Spain.

PubMed

Gil-Prieto, Ruth; Pascual-Garcia, Raquel; San-Roman-Montero, Jesus; Martinez-Martin, Pablo; Castrodeza-Sanz, Javier; Gil-de-Miguel, Angel

2016-01-01

This epidemiological survey estimates the hospitalization burden related to Parkinson´s Disease in Spain. This observational retrospective survey was performed by reviewing data from the National Surveillance System for Hospital Data, which includes more than 98% of Spanish hospitals. All hospitalizations of patients with Parkinson´s disease that were reported from 1997-2012 were analyzed. Codes were selected using the 9th International Classification of Diseases: ICD-9-CM: 332.0. A total of 438,513 hospital discharges of patients with Parkinson´s Disease were reported during the study period. The annual hospitalization rate was 64.2 cases per 100,000. The average length of hospital stay was 10 days. The trend for the annual hospitalization rate differed significantly depending on whether Parkinson´s disease was the main cause of hospitalization (n = 23,086, 1.14% annual increase) or was not the main cause of hospitalization (n = 415,427, 15.37% annual increase). The overall case-fatality rate among hospitalized patients was 10%. The case fatality rate among patient´s hospitalized with Parkinson´s disease as the main cause of hospitalization was 2.5%. The hospitalization rate and case-fatality rate significantly increased with age. The primary causes of hospitalization when Parkinson´s disease was not coded as the main cause of hospitalization were as follows: respiratory system diseases (24%), circulatory system diseases (19%), injuries and poisoning, including fractures (12%), diseases of the digestive system (10%) and neoplasms (5%). The annual average cost for National Health Care System was € 120 M, with a mean hospitalization cost of €4,378. Parkinson´s disease poses a significant health threat in Spain, particularly in the elderly. While hospitalizations due to Parkinson´s Disease are relatively stable over time, the number of patients presenting with Parkinson´s disease as an important comorbidity has increased dramatically. Medical staff must be specifically trained to treat the particular needs of hospitalized patients suffering from Parkinson´s disease as an important comorbidity.

Measuring the Burden of Hospitalization in Patients with Parkinson´s Disease in Spain

PubMed Central

Gil-Prieto, Ruth; Pascual-Garcia, Raquel; San-Roman-Montero, Jesus; Martinez-Martin, Pablo; Castrodeza-Sanz, Javier; Gil-de-Miguel, Angel

2016-01-01

Introduction This epidemiological survey estimates the hospitalization burden related to Parkinson´s Disease in Spain. Methods This observational retrospective survey was performed by reviewing data from the National Surveillance System for Hospital Data, which includes more than 98% of Spanish hospitals. All hospitalizations of patients with Parkinson´s disease that were reported from 1997–2012 were analyzed. Codes were selected using the 9th International Classification of Diseases: ICD-9-CM: 332.0. Results A total of 438,513 hospital discharges of patients with Parkinson´s Disease were reported during the study period. The annual hospitalization rate was 64.2 cases per 100,000. The average length of hospital stay was 10 days. The trend for the annual hospitalization rate differed significantly depending on whether Parkinson´s disease was the main cause of hospitalization (n = 23,086, 1.14% annual increase) or was not the main cause of hospitalization (n = 415,427, 15.37% annual increase). The overall case-fatality rate among hospitalized patients was 10%. The case fatality rate among patient´s hospitalized with Parkinson´s disease as the main cause of hospitalization was 2.5%. The hospitalization rate and case-fatality rate significantly increased with age. The primary causes of hospitalization when Parkinson´s disease was not coded as the main cause of hospitalization were as follows: respiratory system diseases (24%), circulatory system diseases (19%), injuries and poisoning, including fractures (12%), diseases of the digestive system (10%) and neoplasms (5%). The annual average cost for National Health Care System was € 120 M, with a mean hospitalization cost of €4,378. Conclusions Parkinson´s disease poses a significant health threat in Spain, particularly in the elderly. While hospitalizations due to Parkinson´s Disease are relatively stable over time, the number of patients presenting with Parkinson´s disease as an important comorbidity has increased dramatically. Medical staff must be specifically trained to treat the particular needs of hospitalized patients suffering from Parkinson´s disease as an important comorbidity. PMID:26977930

Diagnostic approaches for Rift Valley Fever

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Disease outbreaks caused by arthropod-borne animal viruses (arboviruses) resulting in significant livestock and economic losses world-wide appear to be increasing. Rift Valley fever (RVF) virus (RVFV) is an important arbovirus that causes lethal disease in cattle, camels, sheep and goats in Sub-Saha...

Effects of damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 2-1 on roots of wheat and oil seed rape quantified using X-ray Computed Tomography and real-time PCR

PubMed Central

Sturrock, Craig J.; Woodhall, James; Brown, Matthew; Walker, Catherine; Mooney, Sacha J.; Ray, Rumiana V.

2015-01-01

Rhizoctonia solani is a plant pathogenic fungus that causes significant establishment and yield losses to several important food crops globally. This is the first application of high resolution X-ray micro Computed Tomography (X-ray μCT) and real-time PCR to study host–pathogen interactions in situ and elucidate the mechanism of Rhizoctonia damping-off disease over a 6-day period caused by R. solani, anastomosis group (AG) 2-1 in wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Gallant) and oil seed rape (OSR, Brassica napus cv. Marinka). Temporal, non-destructive analysis of root system architectures was performed using RooTrak and validated by the destructive method of root washing. Disease was assessed visually and related to pathogen DNA quantification in soil using real-time PCR. R. solani AG2-1 at similar initial DNA concentrations in soil was capable of causing significant damage to the developing root systems of both wheat and OSR. Disease caused reductions in primary root number, root volume, root surface area, and convex hull which were affected less in the monocotyledonous host. Wheat was more tolerant to the pathogen, exhibited fewer symptoms and developed more complex root systems. In contrast, R. solani caused earlier damage and maceration of the taproot of the dicot, OSR. Disease severity was related to pathogen DNA accumulation in soil only for OSR, however, reductions in root traits were significantly associated with both disease and pathogen DNA. The method offers the first steps in advancing current understanding of soil-borne pathogen behavior in situ at the pore scale, which may lead to the development of mitigation measures to combat disease influence in the field. PMID:26157449

Effects of damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia solani anastomosis group 2-1 on roots of wheat and oil seed rape quantified using X-ray Computed Tomography and real-time PCR.

PubMed

Sturrock, Craig J; Woodhall, James; Brown, Matthew; Walker, Catherine; Mooney, Sacha J; Ray, Rumiana V

2015-01-01

Rhizoctonia solani is a plant pathogenic fungus that causes significant establishment and yield losses to several important food crops globally. This is the first application of high resolution X-ray micro Computed Tomography (X-ray μCT) and real-time PCR to study host-pathogen interactions in situ and elucidate the mechanism of Rhizoctonia damping-off disease over a 6-day period caused by R. solani, anastomosis group (AG) 2-1 in wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Gallant) and oil seed rape (OSR, Brassica napus cv. Marinka). Temporal, non-destructive analysis of root system architectures was performed using RooTrak and validated by the destructive method of root washing. Disease was assessed visually and related to pathogen DNA quantification in soil using real-time PCR. R. solani AG2-1 at similar initial DNA concentrations in soil was capable of causing significant damage to the developing root systems of both wheat and OSR. Disease caused reductions in primary root number, root volume, root surface area, and convex hull which were affected less in the monocotyledonous host. Wheat was more tolerant to the pathogen, exhibited fewer symptoms and developed more complex root systems. In contrast, R. solani caused earlier damage and maceration of the taproot of the dicot, OSR. Disease severity was related to pathogen DNA accumulation in soil only for OSR, however, reductions in root traits were significantly associated with both disease and pathogen DNA. The method offers the first steps in advancing current understanding of soil-borne pathogen behavior in situ at the pore scale, which may lead to the development of mitigation measures to combat disease influence in the field.

Differential Responses of Cecal Microbiota to Fishmeal, Eimeria and Clostridium perfringens in a Necrotic Enteritis Challenge Model in Chickens

PubMed Central

Rodgers, Nicholas; Swick, Robert A.; Moore, Robert J.

2014-01-01

Clostridium perfringens causes enteric diseases in animals and humans. In poultry, avian-specific C. perfringens strains cause necrotic enteritis, an economically significant poultry disease that costs the global industry over $2 billion annually in losses and control measures. With removal of antibiotic growth promoters in some countries this disease appears to be on the rise. In experimental conditions used to study disease pathogenesis and potential control measures, reproduction of the disease relies on the use of predisposing factors such as Eimeria infection and the use of high protein diets, indicating complex mechanisms involved in the onset of necrotic enteritis. The mechanisms by which the predisposing factors contribute to disease progression are not well understood but it has been suggested that they may cause perturbations in the microbiota within the gastrointestinal tract. We inspected changes in cecal microbiota and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) induced by Eimeria and fishmeal, in birds challenged or not challenged with C. perfringens. C. perfringens challenge in the absence of predisposing factors did not cause significant changes in either the alpha or beta diversity of the microbiota nor in concentrations of SCFA. Moreover, there was no C. perfringens detected in the cecal microbiota 2 days post-challenge without the presence of predisposing factors. In contrast, both fishmeal and Eimeria caused significant changes in microbiota, seen in both alpha and beta diversity and also enabled C. perfringens to establish itself post challenge. Eimeria had its strongest influence on intestinal microbiota and SCFA when combined with fishmeal. Out of 6 SCFAs measured, including butyric acid, none were significantly influenced by C. perfringens, but their levels were strongly modified following the use of both predisposing factors. There was little overlap in the changes caused following Eimeria and fishmeal treatments, possibly indicating multiple routes for progressing towards clinical symptoms of necrotic enteritis. PMID:25167074

Deciphering microbial landscapes of fish eggs to mitigate emerging disease

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Animals and plants are increasingly suffering from diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes. These emerging pathogens are now recognised as a global threat to biodiversity and food security. Amongst oomycetes, Saprolegnia species cause significant declines in fish and amphibian populations. Fish eggs ...

[Current epidemiological status of causes of disease among patients with liver disease hospitalized in Department of Infectious Diseases in a large general hospital within the past 20 years].

PubMed

Zhao, R H; Ma, K; Hu, J; Chen, C X; Qi, J Y

2018-02-20

Objective: To investigate the causes of disease among patients with liver disease hospitalized in Department of Infectious Diseases in our hospital and the changes in such causes within the past 20 years. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of 7570 patients who were admitted to our hospital from January 1995 to December 2015. The chi-square test was used for the statistical analysis of constituent ratio. Results: Of all 7570 patients with liver disease, 4930 (65.13%) had viral hepatitis, 332 (4.39%) had immune disease, 215 (2.84%) had drug-induced liver injury, 192 (2.54%) had fatty liver disease, 88 (1.16%) had schistosome-induced liver disease, 160 (2.11%) had inherited metabolic diseases, and 20 (0.13%) had vascular disease; 689 (9.1%) still had no clear cause of disease at discharge. The proportion of patients with viral hepatitis was 77.61% in the first 10 years and 59.19% in the last 10 years ( P < 0.01). As for liver disease caused by hepatotropic virus, there were significant increases in the proportion of patients with hepatitis C or hepatitis E from the first to the last 10 years (hepatitis C: 2.24% vs 15.56%, P < 0.01; hepatitis E: 18.61% vs 23.07%, P < 0.05), while there were significant reductions in the proportion of patients with hepatitis B (68.14% vs 60.01%, P < 0.05) or hepatitis A (10.7% vs 1.36%, P < 0.05). The proportion of patients with immune diseases was 0.82% in the first 10 years and 6.08% in the last 10 years ( P < 0.01). There were also certain changes in the proportion of patients with liver disease caused by other reasons. Conclusion: There is a large proportion of patients with viral hepatitis among patients with liver disease hospitalized in Department of Infectious Diseases in a large general hospital, especially hepatitis B and E caused by hepatotropic virus. There is a certain change in the epidemiology of liver disease within the past 20 years, with a reduction in the proportion of patients with viral hepatitis and an increase in the proportion of patients with non-infectious liver diseases. There is a large proportion of patients with unknown causes of liver disease.

Mycoplasmosis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Friend, M.

1999-01-01

Mycoplasmosis is caused by infection with a unique group of bacteria that lack cell walls but possess distinctive plasma membranes. Mycoplasma are also the smallest self-replicating life-forms, and they are responsible for a variety of diseases in humans, animals, insects, and plants. These bacteria can cause acute and chronic diseases in hosts that they infect, and they are also implicated with other microbes as causes of disease when the immune system of the host has become impaired through concurrent infection by other disease agents or through other processes. This chapter focuses on mycoplasmal infections of birds, the most significant of which are caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG), M. meleagridis (MM), and M. synoviae (MS). Only MG is of known importance for wild birds.

Associations between chronic diseases and choking deaths among older adults in the USA: a cross-sectional study using multiple cause mortality data from 2009 to 2013.

PubMed

Wu, Wen-Shiann; Sung, Kuan-Chin; Cheng, Tain-Junn; Lu, Tsung-Hsueh

2015-11-12

To examine whether the strengths of the associations between chronic diseases and overall choking differ from those of the associations between chronic diseases and only food-related choking. This cross-sectional study used nationwide multiple cause mortality files. The USA. Older adults aged 65 years or more died between 2009 and 2013. Mortality ratio (observed/expected) of number of deaths from both causes (chronic diseases and choking) and 95% CIs. We identified 76543 deaths for which the death certificates report choking (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes W78, W79 and W80 combined) as a cause of death and only 4974 (6.5%) deaths were classified as food-related choking (ICD-10 code W79). Schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and oral cancer are four chronic diseases that had significant associations with both overall and food-related choking. Stroke, larynx cancer and mood (affective) disorders had significant associations with overall choking, but not with food-related choking. We suggest using overall choking instead of only food-related choking to better describe the associations between chronic diseases and choking. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Identification and characterization of Pestalotiopsis-like fungi related to grapevine diseases in China.

PubMed

Jayawardena, Ruvishika S; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Mei; Maharachchikumbura, Sajeewa S N; Zhou, Ying; Huang, JinBao; Nilthong, Somrudee; Wang, ZhongYue; Li, XingHong; Yan, JiYe; Hyde, Kevin D

2015-05-01

Pestalotiopsis-like fungi are an important plant pathogenic genus causing postharvest fruit rot and trunk diseases in grapevine in many countries. Pestalotiopsis-like fungi diseases were studied in vineyards in nine provinces across China. Multi-gene (ITS, β-tubulin and tef1) analysis coupled with morphology showed that a Neopestalotiopsis sp. and Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola are associated in causing grapevine fruit rot and trunk diseases in China. Pestalotiopsis trachicarpicola is reported as the causative agent of grapevine diseases in the world for the first time. Neopestalotiopsis sp. caused significantly longer lesions than the other taxon present. This study represents the first attempt to identify and characterize the Pestalotiopsis-like fungi causing grapevine diseases in China using both morphological and molecular approaches. Copyright © 2014 The British Mycological Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bacterial Diseases of Bananas and Enset: Current State of Knowledge and Integrated Approaches Toward Sustainable Management

PubMed Central

Blomme, Guy; Dita, Miguel; Jacobsen, Kim Sarah; Pérez Vicente, Luis; Molina, Agustin; Ocimati, Walter; Poussier, Stephane; Prior, Philippe

2017-01-01

Bacterial diseases of bananas and enset have not received, until recently, an equal amount of attention compared to other major threats to banana production such as the fungal diseases black leaf streak (Mycosphaerella fijiensis) and Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense). However, bacteria cause significant impacts on bananas globally and management practices are not always well known or adopted by farmers. Bacterial diseases in bananas and enset can be divided into three groups: (1) Ralstonia-associated diseases (Moko/Bugtok disease caused by Ralstonia solanacearum and banana blood disease caused by R. syzygii subsp. celebesensis); (2) Xanthomonas wilt of banana and enset, caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum and (3) Erwinia-associated diseases (bacterial head rot or tip-over disease Erwinia carotovora ssp. carotovora and E. chrysanthemi), bacterial rhizome and pseudostem wet rot (Dickeya paradisiaca formerly E. chrysanthemi pv. paradisiaca). Other bacterial diseases of less widespread importance include: bacterial wilt of abaca, Javanese vascular wilt and bacterial fingertip rot (probably caused by Ralstonia spp., unconfirmed). This review describes global distribution, symptoms, pathogenic diversity, epidemiology and the state of the art for sustainable disease management of the major bacterial wilts currently affecting banana and enset. PMID:28785275

A mortality study of workers exposed to insoluble forms of beryllium

PubMed Central

Boffetta, Paolo; Fordyce, Tiffani

2014-01-01

This study investigated lung cancer and other diseases related to insoluble beryllium compounds. A cohort of 4950 workers from four US insoluble beryllium manufacturing facilities were followed through 2009. Expected deaths were calculated using local and national rates. On the basis of local rates, all-cause mortality was significantly reduced. Mortality from lung cancer (standardized mortality ratio 96.0; 95% confidence interval 80.0, 114.3) and from nonmalignant respiratory diseases was also reduced. There were no significant trends for either cause of death according to duration of employment or time since first employment. Uterine cancer among women was the only cause of death with a significantly increased standardized mortality ratio. Five of the seven women worked in office jobs. This study confirmed the lack of an increase in mortality from lung cancer and nonmalignant respiratory diseases related to insoluble beryllium compounds. PMID:24589746

Trends in Disparity by Sex and Race/Ethnicity for the Leading Causes of Death in the United States-1999-2010.

PubMed

Chang, Man-Huei; Moonesinghe, Ramal; Athar, Heba M; Truman, Benedict I

2016-01-01

Temporal trends in disparities in the leading causes of death within and between US demographic subgroups indicate the need for and success of interventions to prevent premature death in vulnerable populations. Studies that report recent trends are limited and outdated. To describe temporal trends in disparities in death rates by sex and race/ethnicity for the 10 leading causes of death in the United States during 1999-2010. We used underlying cause of death data and population estimates from the National Vital Statistics System to calculate age-adjusted death rates for the 10 leading causes of death during 1999-2010. We measured absolute and relative disparities by sex and race/ethnicity for each cause and year of death; we used weighted linear regression to test for significance of trends over time. Of the 10 leading causes of death, age-adjusted death rates by sex and race/ethnicity declined during 1999-2010 for 6 causes and increased for 4 causes. But sex and racial/ethnic disparities between groups persisted for each year and cause of death. In the US population, the decreasing trend during 1999-2010 was greatest for cerebrovascular disease (-36.5%) and the increasing trend was greatest for Alzheimer disease (52.4%). For each sex and year, the disparity in death rates between Asian/Pacific Islanders (API) and other groups varied significantly by cause of death. In 2010, the API-non-Hispanic black disparity was largest for heart disease, malignant neoplasms, cerebrovascular diseases, and nephritis; the API-American Indian/Alaska Native disparity was largest for unintentional injury, diabetes mellitus, influenza and pneumonia, and suicide; and the API-non-Hispanic white disparity was largest for chronic lower respiratory diseases and Alzheimer disease. Public health practitioners can use these findings to improve policies and practices and to evaluate progress in eliminating disparities and their social determinants in vulnerable populations.

Management of Rhizoctonia root and crown rot of subarbeet

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Rhizoctonia root and crown rot is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani and is one of the most severe soil-borne diseases of sugarbeet in Minnesota and North Dakota. Rhizoctonia root and crown rot may reduce yield significantly, and diseased beets may cause problems in storage piles. Fields with...

Utility of Antibody Avidity for Rift Valley Fever Virus Vaccine Potency and Immunogenicity Studies

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Disease outbreaks caused by arthropod-borne animal viruses (arboviruses) resulting in significant livestock and economic losses world-wide appear to be increasing. Rift Valley fever (RVF) virus is an important arbovirus that causes lethal disease in cattle, camels, sheep and goats in sub-Saharan Afr...

A comparative analysis of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and polychlorinated biphenyls in southern sea otters that died of infectious diseases and noninfectious causes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kannan, K.; Perrota, E.; Thomas, N.J.; Aldous, D.M.

2007-01-01

Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) from the California coast continue to exhibit a slower population regrowth rate than the population in Alaska. Infectious diseases have been identified as a frequent cause of death. Infectious diseases caused by varied pathogens including bacteria, fungi, and parasites were suggestive of compromised immunological health of mature animals in this population. To test the hypothesis that elevated exposure to immunotoxic contaminants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) contribute to disease susceptibility via immunosuppression, we determined concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs in livers of 80 adult female sea otters that died of infectious diseases, noninfectious causes, or emaciation. Concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs in sea otter livers varied widely (10a??26,800 ng/g and 81a??210,000 ng/g, lipid weight, respectively). Concentrations of PBDEs in sea otters were some of the highest values reported for marine mammals so far. Although PCB concentrations in sea otters have declined during 1992a??2002, the mean concentration was at the threshold at which adverse health effects are elicited. Concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs were significantly correlated, suggesting co-exposure of these contaminants in sea otters. No significant association was found between the concentrations of PBDEs and the health status of sea otters. Concentrations of PCBs were significantly higher in otters in the infectious disease category than in the noninfectious category, suggesting an association between elevated PCB concentrations and infectious diseases in Southern sea otters.

Changes in causes of death and risk of cancer in Danish patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease.

PubMed

Orskov, Bjarne; Sørensen, Vibeke Rømming; Feldt-Rasmussen, Bo; Strandgaard, Svend

2012-04-01

With the improved prognosis in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), causes of death and the risk of cancer might have changed. This was investigated in a Danish population with ADPKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) between 1 January 1993 and 31 December 2008. Data were retrieved from three Danish national registries and a total of 823 patients were identified of which 431 had died during the study period. The 16 years were divided into two 8-year periods and the causes of death were divided into six categories: cancer, cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, infection, other and unknown. Cardiovascular disease was the major cause of death. A multivariate competing risk model comparing the two 8-year periods, adjusted for age at ESRD, gender and treatment modality, showed that deaths from cardiovascular disease decreased by 35% [hazard ratios (HR) 0.65, P=0.008] and deaths from cerebrovascular disease decreased by 69% (HR 0.31, P=0.0003) from the first to the second time period. There were no significant changes between the time periods in death from cancer, infection, other or unknown. From the first to the second 8-year interval, the prevalence of cancer increased by 35% (P=0.0002) while the cancer incidence was stable. In Danish patients with ADPKD and ESRD, there was a significant reduction in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular deaths from 1993 to 2008. The prevalence of cancer increased without significant change in cancer incidence or deaths from cancer.

pH-dependent relationship between thermodynamic and kinetic stability in the denaturation of human phosphoglycerate kinase 1.

PubMed

Pey, Angel L

2014-08-01

Human phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (hPGK1) is a glycolytic enzyme essential for ATP synthesis, and it is implicated in different pathological conditions such as inherited diseases, oncogenesis and activation of drugs for cancer and viral treatments. Particularly, mutations in hPGK1 cause human PGK1 deficiency, a rate metabolic conformational disease. We have recently found that most of these mutations cause protein kinetic destabilization by significant changes in the structure/energetics of the transition state for irreversible denaturation. In this work, we explore the relationships between protein conformation, thermodynamic and kinetic stability in hPGK1 by performing comprehensive analyses in a wide pH range (2.5-8). hPGK1 remains in a native conformation at pH 5-8, but undergoes a conformational transition to a molten globule-like state at acidic pH. Interestingly, hPGK1 kinetic stability remains essentially constant at pH 6-8, but is significantly reduced when pH is decreased from 6 to 5. We found that this decrease in kinetic stability is caused by significant changes in the energetic/structural balance of the denaturation transition state, which diverge from those found for disease-causing mutations. We also show that protein kinetic destabilization by acidic pH is strongly linked to lower thermodynamic stability, while in disease-causing mutations seems to be linked to lower unfolding cooperativity. These results highlight the plasticity of the hPGK1 denaturation mechanism that responds differently to changes in pH and in disease-causing mutations. New insight is presented into the different factors contributing to hPGK1 thermodynamic and kinetic stability and the role of denaturation mechanisms in hPGK1 deficiency. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Effect of Ezetimibe on Major Atherosclerotic Disease Events and All-Cause Mortality

PubMed Central

Hayek, Sami; Escaro, Fabrizio Canepa; Sattar, Assad; Gamalski, Steven; Wells, Karen E.; Divine, George; Ahmedani, Brian K.; Lanfear, David E.; Pladevall, Manel; Williams, L. Keoki

2012-01-01

Despite ezetimibe’s ability to reduce serum cholesterol levels, there are concerns over its vascular effects and whether it prevents or ameliorates atherosclerotic disease (AD). Our objective was to estimate the effect of ezetimibe use on major AD events and all-cause mortality and to compare these associations to those observed for hydroxy-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitor (i.e., statin) use. We identified 367 new ezetimibe users between November 1, 2002 and December 31, 2009. These individuals were ≥18 years of age and had no prior statin use. One to four statin user matches were identified for each ezetimibe user resulting in a total of 1,238 closely matched statin users. Pharmacy data and drug dosage information were used to estimate a moving window of ezetimibe and statin exposure for each day of study follow-up. The primary outcome was a composite of major AD events (coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease events) and all-cause death. Both ezetimibe use (odds ratio [OR] 0.33, 95% CI 0.13–0.86) and statin use (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.36–1.04) were associated with reductions in the likelihood of the composite outcome. These protective associations were most significant for cerebrovascular disease events and all-cause death. Subgroup analyses by sex, race-ethnicity, prior history of AD, diabetes status, and estimated renal function showed consistent estimates across strata with no significant differences between ezetimibe and statin use. In conclusion, ezetimibe appeared to have a protective effect on major AD events and all-cause death which was not significantly different from that observed for statin use. PMID:23219178

Changes of pituitary gland volume in Kennedy disease.

PubMed

Pieper, C C; Teismann, I K; Konrad, C; Heindel, W L; Schiffbauer, H

2013-12-01

Kennedy disease is a rare X-linked neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG repeat expansion in the first exon of the androgen-receptor gene. Apart from neurologic signs, this mutation can cause a partial androgen insensitivity syndrome with typical alterations of gonadotropic hormones produced by the pituitary gland. The aim of the present study was therefore to evaluate the impact of Kennedy disease on pituitary gland volume under the hypothesis that endocrinologic changes caused by partial androgen insensitivity may lead to morphologic changes (ie, hypertrophy) of the pituitary gland. Pituitary gland volume was measured in sagittal sections of 3D T1-weighted 3T-MR imaging data of 8 patients with genetically proven Kennedy disease and compared with 16 healthy age-matched control subjects by use of Multitracer by a blinded, experienced radiologist. The results were analyzed by a univariant ANOVA with total brain volume as a covariant. Furthermore, correlation and linear regression analyses were performed for pituitary volume, patient age, disease duration, and CAG repeat expansion length. Intraobserver reliability was evaluated by means of the Pearson correlation coefficient. Pituitary volume was significantly larger in patients with Kennedy disease (636 [±90] mm(3)) than in healthy control subjects (534 [±91] mm(3)) (P = .041). There was no significant difference in total brain volume (P = .379). Control subjects showed a significant decrease in volume with age (r = -0.712, P = .002), whereas there was a trend to increasing gland volume in patients with Kennedy disease (r = 0.443, P = .272). Gland volume correlated with CAG repeat expansion length in patients (r = 0.630, P = .047). The correlation coefficient for intraobserver reliability was 0.94 (P < .001). Patients with Kennedy disease showed a significantly higher pituitary volume that correlated with the CAG repeat expansion length. This could reflect hypertrophy as the result of elevated gonadotropic hormone secretion caused by the androgen receptor mutation with partial androgen insensitivity.

A serological investigation of the thirty-year history of exposure to Mycoplasma bovis in healthy North American bison

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mycoplasma bovis causes mastitis, pneumonia and arthritis in cattle and is a major contributor to bovine respiratory disease complex. Recently, it has emerged as a significant respiratory and reproductive health problem in bison. Understanding why M. bovis, known to cause disease in cattle for ove...

Causes of death in Vanuatu.

PubMed

Carter, Karen; Tovu, Viran; Langati, Jeffrey Tila; Buttsworth, Michael; Dingley, Lester; Calo, Andy; Harrison, Griffith; Rao, Chalapati; Lopez, Alan D; Taylor, Richard

2016-01-01

The population of the Pacific Melanesian country of Vanuatu was 234,000 at the 2009 census. Apart from subsistence activities, economic activity includes tourism and agriculture. Current completeness of vital registration is considered too low to be usable for national statistics; mortality and life expectancy (LE) are derived from indirect demographic estimates from censuses/surveys. Some cause of death (CoD) data are available to provide information on major causes of premature death. Deaths 2001-2007 were coded for cause (ICDv10) for ages 0-59 years from: hospital separations (HS) (n = 636), hospital medical certificates (MC) of death (n = 1,169), and monthly reports from community health facilities (CHF) (n = 1,212). Ill-defined causes were 3 % for hospital deaths and 20 % from CHF. Proportional mortality was calculated by cause (excluding ill-defined) and age group (0-4, 5-14 years), and also by sex for 15-59 years. From total deaths by broad age group and sex from 1999 and 2009 census analyses, community deaths were estimated by deduction of hospital deaths MC. National proportional mortality by cause was estimated by a weighted average of MC and CHF deaths. National estimates indicate main causes of deaths <5 years were: perinatal disorders (45 %) and malaria, diarrhea, and pneumonia (27 %). For 15-59 years, main causes of male deaths were: circulatory disease 27 %, neoplasms 13 %, injury 13 %, liver disease 10 %, infection 10 %, diabetes 7 %, and chronic respiratory disease 7 %; and for females: neoplasms 29 %, circulatory disease 15 %, diabetes 10 %, infection 9 %, and maternal deaths 8 %. Infection included tuberculosis, malaria, and viral hepatitis. Liver disease (including hepatitis and cancer) accounted for 18 % of deaths in adult males and 9 % in females. Non-communicable disease (NCD), including circulatory disease, diabetes, neoplasm, and chronic respiratory disease, accounted for 52 % of premature deaths in adult males and 60 % in females. Injuries accounted for 13 % in adult males and 6 % in females. Maternal deaths translate into an annual maternal mortality ratio of 130/100,000 for the period. Vanuatu manifests a double burden of disease with significant proportional mortality from perinatal disorders and infection/pneumonia <5 years and maternal mortality, coupled with significant proportional mortality in adults (15-59 years) from cardiovascular disease (CVD), neoplasms, and diabetes.

International collaborations to facilitate a better understanding of Newcastle disease epidemiology

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Infections of poultry species with virulent strains of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) cause Newcastle disease (ND), worldwide one of the most economically significant and devastating diseases for poultry producers. Biological engagement programs (BEP) between the Southeast Poultry Research Laborator...

[Comparative characteristics of depressive tendencies in patients with tuberculosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease].

PubMed

Bagisheva, N V; Udalova, T Y; Mordyk, A V; Aroyan, A R; Ivanova, O G; Rudenko, S A

2016-01-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and tuberculosis are socially significant diseases that can develop at any age, and require long-term, sometimes lifelong, therapy. Diseases will inevitably cause a deficiency of oxygen in the body that can cause disorders of the nervous system, from the mood changes to reduce intelligence, especially in the elderly. According to the results of the study the majority of patients with COPD and a third of patients with tuberculosis, there are significant problems of the emotional plane, especially in older and elderly expressed in the presence of depressive tendencies (from subdepressive states to real depression), and almost half of the patients in need of specially organized psychological or medical assistance.

Transcriptome variation in response to Marek’s disease virus acute infection

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Marek’s disease (MD) is an economically significant chicken disease that affects the poultry industry worldwide with estimated annual cost of $2 billion [Morrow and Fehler, 2004]. The disease is caused by the highly oncogenic Marek’s disease virus (MDV), an alphaherpesvirus that induces T-cell lymph...

Emerging and Neglected Infectious Diseases: Insights, Advances, and Challenges

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Infectious diseases are a significant burden on public health and economic stability of societies all over the world. They have for centuries been among the leading causes of death and disability and presented growing challenges to health security and human progress. The threat posed by infectious diseases is further deepened by the continued emergence of new, unrecognized, and old infectious disease epidemics of global impact. Over the past three and half decades at least 30 new infectious agents affecting humans have emerged, most of which are zoonotic and their origins have been shown to correlate significantly with socioeconomic, environmental, and ecological factors. As these factors continue to increase, putting people in increased contact with the disease causing pathogens, there is concern that infectious diseases may continue to present a formidable challenge. Constant awareness and pursuance of effective strategies for controlling infectious diseases and disease emergence thus remain crucial. This review presents current updates on emerging and neglected infectious diseases and highlights the scope, dynamics, and advances in infectious disease management with particular focus on WHO top priority emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) and neglected tropical infectious diseases. PMID:28286767

Emerging and Neglected Infectious Diseases: Insights, Advances, and Challenges.

PubMed

Nii-Trebi, Nicholas Israel

2017-01-01

Infectious diseases are a significant burden on public health and economic stability of societies all over the world. They have for centuries been among the leading causes of death and disability and presented growing challenges to health security and human progress. The threat posed by infectious diseases is further deepened by the continued emergence of new, unrecognized, and old infectious disease epidemics of global impact. Over the past three and half decades at least 30 new infectious agents affecting humans have emerged, most of which are zoonotic and their origins have been shown to correlate significantly with socioeconomic, environmental, and ecological factors. As these factors continue to increase, putting people in increased contact with the disease causing pathogens, there is concern that infectious diseases may continue to present a formidable challenge. Constant awareness and pursuance of effective strategies for controlling infectious diseases and disease emergence thus remain crucial. This review presents current updates on emerging and neglected infectious diseases and highlights the scope, dynamics, and advances in infectious disease management with particular focus on WHO top priority emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) and neglected tropical infectious diseases.

Inorganic arsenic causes fatty liver and interacts with ethanol to cause alcoholic liver disease in zebrafish.

PubMed

Bambino, Kathryn; Zhang, Chi; Austin, Christine; Amarasiriwardena, Chitra; Arora, Manish; Chu, Jaime; Sadler, Kirsten C

2018-02-26

The rapid increase in fatty liver disease (FLD) incidence is attributed largely to genetic and lifestyle factors; however, environmental toxicants are a frequently overlooked factor that can modify the effects of more common causes of FLD. Chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) is associated with liver disease in humans and animal models, but neither the mechanism of action nor the combinatorial interaction with other disease-causing factors has been fully investigated. Here, we examined the contribution of iAs to FLD using zebrafish and tested the interaction with ethanol to cause alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We report that zebrafish exposed to iAs throughout development developed specific phenotypes beginning at 4 days post-fertilization (dpf), including the development of FLD in over 50% of larvae by 5 dpf. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of livers from larvae exposed to either iAs or ethanol revealed the oxidative stress response and the unfolded protein response (UPR) caused by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as common pathways in both these models of FLD, suggesting that they target similar cellular processes. This was confirmed by our finding that arsenic is synthetically lethal with both ethanol and a well-characterized ER-stress-inducing agent (tunicamycin), suggesting that these exposures work together through UPR activation to cause iAs toxicity. Most significantly, combined exposure to sub-toxic concentrations of iAs and ethanol potentiated the expression of UPR-associated genes, cooperated to induce FLD, reduced the expression of as3mt , which encodes an arsenic-metabolizing enzyme, and significantly increased the concentration of iAs in the liver. This demonstrates that iAs exposure is sufficient to cause FLD and that low doses of iAs can potentiate the effects of ethanol to cause liver disease.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. © 2018. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Inorganic arsenic causes fatty liver and interacts with ethanol to cause alcoholic liver disease in zebrafish

PubMed Central

Zhang, Chi; Austin, Christine; Amarasiriwardena, Chitra; Arora, Manish

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT The rapid increase in fatty liver disease (FLD) incidence is attributed largely to genetic and lifestyle factors; however, environmental toxicants are a frequently overlooked factor that can modify the effects of more common causes of FLD. Chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) is associated with liver disease in humans and animal models, but neither the mechanism of action nor the combinatorial interaction with other disease-causing factors has been fully investigated. Here, we examined the contribution of iAs to FLD using zebrafish and tested the interaction with ethanol to cause alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We report that zebrafish exposed to iAs throughout development developed specific phenotypes beginning at 4 days post-fertilization (dpf), including the development of FLD in over 50% of larvae by 5 dpf. Comparative transcriptomic analysis of livers from larvae exposed to either iAs or ethanol revealed the oxidative stress response and the unfolded protein response (UPR) caused by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as common pathways in both these models of FLD, suggesting that they target similar cellular processes. This was confirmed by our finding that arsenic is synthetically lethal with both ethanol and a well-characterized ER-stress-inducing agent (tunicamycin), suggesting that these exposures work together through UPR activation to cause iAs toxicity. Most significantly, combined exposure to sub-toxic concentrations of iAs and ethanol potentiated the expression of UPR-associated genes, cooperated to induce FLD, reduced the expression of as3mt, which encodes an arsenic-metabolizing enzyme, and significantly increased the concentration of iAs in the liver. This demonstrates that iAs exposure is sufficient to cause FLD and that low doses of iAs can potentiate the effects of ethanol to cause liver disease. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. PMID:29361514

76 FR 10375 - Government-Owned Inventions; Availability for Licensing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-24

..., activation, and lipid metabolites have been implicated in type 1 and type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease... platelet-mediated clot formation caused by diabetes and/or cardiovascular disease and significantly... developments (blood clots; Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases...

Current advances on genetic resistance to rice blast disease

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Rice blast disease caused by the fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae is one of the most threatening fungal diseases resulting in significant annual crop losses worldwide. Blast disease has been effectively managed by a combination of resistant (R) gene deployment, application of fungicides, and suita...

Rift Valley fever: a mosquito-borne emerging disease

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Rift Valley fever (RVF) (Bunyaviridae: Phlebovirus) is mosquito-borne zoonotic emerging infectious viral disease caused by RVF virus (RVFV) that presents significant threats to global public health and agriculture in Africa and the Middle East. RVFV is listed as a select agent with significant conce...

Association between daily mortality from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and air pollution in Taiwan.

PubMed

Liang, Wen-Miin; Wei, Hsing-Yu; Kuo, Hsien-Wen

2009-01-01

Many studies have investigated the effects of air pollutants on disease and mortality. However, the results remain inconsistent and inconclusive. We thought that the impact of different seasons or ages of people may explain these differences. Measurement of the five pollutants (particulate matter <10 microm in aerodynamic diameter (PM(10)), SO(2), NO(2), O(3), and CO) was monitored by automated measuring units at five different stations. Monitoring stations were provided by the Taiwan Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from 1997 to 1999. The subjects in the study were classified in two groups: those 65 years of age and older, and those of all ages (including the subjects in the > or =65 group). Data on daily mortality caused by respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, and all other causes including the two aforementioned was collected by the Taiwan Department of Health (DOH). A time-series regression model was used to analyze the relative risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases due to air pollution in the summer and winter seasons. Risk of death from all causes and mortality from cardiovascular diseases during winter was significantly positively correlated with levels of SO(2), CO, and NO(2) for both groups of subjects and additionally with PM(10) for the elderly (> or =65 years old) group. There were significant positive correlations with respiratory diseases and levels of O(3) for both groups. However, the only significant positive correlation was with O(3) (RR=1.283) for the elderly group during summer. No other parameters showed significance for either group. Our findings contribute to the evidence of an association between SO(2), CO, NO(2), and PM(10) and mortality from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially among elderly people during the winter season.

75 FR 43992 - Government-Owned Inventions; Availability for Licensing

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-27

... applications. Therapeutics for the Treatment and Prevention of Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease... prevention of cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke and inflammation... which atherosclerosis is a significant contributing factor or cause. Global sales for cardiovascular...

Emerging trends in diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Birch, James T; Bhattacharya, Shelley

2010-12-01

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease of the joints causing pain and stiffness, pathologically characterized by chronic synovitis. Without proper treatment, it progresses to cause joint deformity that results in significant loss of function. Extra-articular disease can also occur, which exacerbates morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. Patients from all age groups can acquire the disease, hence the additional categories of juvenile onset and elderly onset rheumatoid arthritis. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs are the mainstay of therapy, and should be initiated as early as possible in the course of the disease in consultation with a rheumatologist. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Shift work and overall and cause-specific mortality in the Danish nurse cohort.

PubMed

Jørgensen, Jeanette Therming; Karlsen, Sashia; Stayner, Leslie; Andersen, Johnni; Andersen, Zorana Jovanovic

2017-03-01

Objectives Evidence of an effect of shift work on all-cause and cause-specific mortality is inconsistent. This study aims to examine whether shift work is associated with increased all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Methods We linked 28 731 female nurses (age ≥44 years), recruited in 1993 or 1999 from the Danish nurse cohort where they reported information on shift work (night, evening, rotating, or day), to the Danish Register of Causes of Death to identify deaths up to 2013. We used Cox regression models with age as the underlying scale to examine the associations between night, evening, and rotating shift work (compared to day shift work) and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in models adjusted for potentially confounding variables. Results Of 18 015 nurses included in this study, 1616 died during the study time period from the following causes: cardiovascular disease (N=217), cancer (N= 945), diabetes (N=20), Alzheimer's disease or dementia (N=33), and psychiatric diseases (N=67). We found that working night [hazard ratio (HR) 1.26, 95% confidence interval 95% CI) 1.05-1.51] or evening (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.11-1.49) shifts was associated with a significant increase in all-cause mortality when compared to working day shift. We found a significant association of night shift work with cardiovascular disease (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.09-2.69) and diabetes (HR 12.0, 95% CI 3.17-45.2, based on 8 cases) and none with overall cancer mortality (HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.81-1.35) or mortality from psychiatric diseases (HR 1.17, 95% CI 0.47-2.92). Finally, we found strong association between evening (HR 4.28, 95% CI 1.62-11.3) and rotating (HR 5.39, 95% CI 2.35-12.3) shift work and mortality from Alzheimer's disease and dementia (based on 8 and 14 deaths among evening and rotating shift workers, respectively). Conclusions Women working night and evening shifts have increased all-cause, cardiovascular, diabetes, and Alzheimer's and dementia mortality.

The Human Stomach in Health and Disease: Infection Strategies by Helicobacter pylori.

PubMed

Robinson, Karen; Letley, Darren P; Kaneko, Kazuyo

2017-01-01

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterial pathogen which commonly colonizes the human gastric mucosa from early childhood and persists throughout life. In the vast majority of cases, the infection is asymptomatic. H. pylori is the leading cause of peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer, however, and these outcomes occur in 10-15% of those infected. Gastric adenocarcinoma is the third most common cause of cancer-associated death, and peptic ulcer disease is a significant cause of morbidity. Disease risk is related to the interplay of numerous bacterial host and environmental factors, many of which influence chronic inflammation and damage to the gastric mucosa. This chapter summarizes what is known about health and disease in H. pylori infection, and highlights the need for additional research in this area.

Trends in the leading causes of death in Korea, 1983-2012.

PubMed

Lim, Daroh; Ha, Mina; Song, Inmyung

2014-12-01

This study aimed to analyze trends in the 10 leading causes of death in Korea from 1983 to 2012. Death rates were derived from the Korean Statistics Information Service database and age-adjusted to the 2010 population. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to identify the points when statistically significant changes occurred in the trends. Between 1983 and 2012, the age-standardized death rate (ASR) from all causes decreased by 61.6% for men and 51.2% for women. ASRs from malignant neoplasms, diabetes mellitus, and transport accidents increased initially before decreasing. ASRs from hypertensive diseases, heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases and diseases of the liver showed favorable trends (ASR % change: -94.4%, -53.8%, -76.0%, and -78.9% for men, and -77.1%, -36.5%, -67.8%, and -79.9% for women, respectively). ASRs from pneumonia decreased until the mid-1990s and thereafter increased. ASRs from intentional self-harm increased persistently since around 1990 (ASR % change: 122.0% for men and 217.4% for women). In conclusion, death rates from all causes in Korea decreased significantly in the last three decades except in the late 1990s. Despite the great strides made in the overall mortality, temporal trends varied widely by cause. Mortality trends for malignant neoplasms, diabetes mellitus, pneumonia and intentional self-harm were unfavorable.

Social class and all-cause mortality in an urban population of North India.

PubMed

Singh, Ram B; Singh, Vijender; Kulshrestha, Shelendra K; Singh, Surendra; Gupta, Pankaj; Kumar, Rajeev; Krishna, Atul; Srivastav, Shiv S L; Gupta, Shashi B; Pella, Daniel; Cornelissen, Germaine

2005-12-01

There is a rapid emergence of cardiovascular disease in India with economic development, leading to an increase in mortality due to these diseases. The exact causes of death in India, however, are not known. We studied randomly selected death records from 2222 (1385 men and 837 women) victims, aged 25-64 years, out of 3034 death records during 1999-2001 at the Municipal Corporation, Moradabad. All the families of these victims could be contacted individually to find out the causes of death, by scientists/doctors-administered pre-tested verbal autopsy questionnaires, completed with the help of spouses and local treating doctors practising in the concerned lane. Social classes were assessed by a questionnaire based on attributes of per capita income, occupation, education, housing and ownership of consumer luxury items in the household. Causes of mortality included infectious diseases (41.1%, n = 915) such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diarrhea/dysentery, hepatitis B, and inflammatory brain infections as the commonest causes of death in the urban population of North India. The second most common causes of death were circulatory diseases (29.1%, n = 646), including heart attacks (10.0%), strokes (7.8%), valvular heart disease (7.2%, n = 160), sudden cardiac death, and inflammatory cardiac disease (each 2.0%, n = 44). Malignant neoplasm (5.8%, n = 131), injury (14.0%, n = 313), including accidents, fire and falls, and poisonings were also quite common causes of death. Miscellaneous causes of death were noted in 9.1% (n = 202) death records, including diabetes mellitus (2.2%, n = 49), suicides (1.8%, n = 41), congenital anomalies (1.0, n = 37), dental caries infections (1.9, n = 42), and burns (1.3%, n = 33). Pregnancy and perinatal causes (0.72%, n = 15) were not commonly recorded in our study. Circulatory diseases as the cause of mortality were statistically significantly more common among higher social classes (1-3) than in lower social classes (4 and 5) whose members died more often due to infections. Heart attacks, strokes, hypertension, diabetes and obesity were statistically significantly more common among higher social classes (1-3) as compared to classes 3 and 4, but tobacco intake showed only minor differences among various classes. This study indicates that circulatory diseases, injury and malignant diseases have become the major causes of death in India, after infections. Members of social classes 1-3 died more often due to circulatory diseases and members in lower social classes died more often due to infections. Urbanization with rapid changes in diet and lifestyle in various social classes, and possibly aging of the population seem to be responsible for the double burden of diseases, related to under- and over-nutrition, causing death in a developing economy. Monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate around the clock for 7 days, with data analysed chronobiologically can detect abnormal circadian patterns associated with a large increase in cardiovascular disease risk, greater than hypertension itself, allowing the institution of prophylactic treatment. Such prehabilitation may be particularly useful to curb the increasing burden of cardiovascular diseases in both developed and developing countries.

Analysis of factors affecting the quality of life of those suffering from Crohn's disease.

PubMed

Chrobak-Bień, Joanna; Gawor, Anna; Paplaczyk, Małgorzata; Małecka-Panas, Ewa; Gąsiorowska, Anita

2017-08-31

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease of unknown etiology. Its chronic nature, as well as symptoms of intestinal and overall significantly impedes the daily functioning of patients. Alternately occurring periods of exacerbation and remission are the cause of reduced quality of life of patients. Understanding the factors that caused the decrease in the quality of life, it allows us to understand the behavior and the situation of the patient and the ability to cope with stress caused by the disease. The aim of the study was to analyze the factors affecting the quality of life of people with Crohn's disease. The study group consisted of 50 people diagnosed with Crohn's disease. Respondents were treated at the Department of General Surgery and Colorectal Medical University of Lodz and Gastroenterological Clinic at the University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lodz. Quality of Life Survey was carried out by a diagnostic survey using a research tool SF-36v2 and surveys of its own design. Analysis of the results demonstrated that the quality of life of patients with Crohn's disease was reduced, especially during exacerbations. Evaluation of the quality of life of respondents in physical terms was slightly higher than in the mental aspect. Higher education subjects and the lack of need for surgical treatment significantly improves the quality of life. The occurrence of chronic disease reduces the quality of life of respondents. Elderly patients are better able to adapt to the difficult situation caused by the disease. The quality of life of women and men is at a similar level and patients in remission of the disease have a better quality of life of patients during exacerbations.

Detection and validation of QTL affecting bacterial cold water disease resistance in rainbow trout using restriction-site associated DNA sequencing

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic loss in salmonid aquaculture. Using microsatellites genome scan we have previously detected significant and suggestive QTL with major effects on the phenotypic variation of survival following challenge with Flavobacterium psychrophilum...

New concepts for the old challenge of African relapsing fever borreliosis.

PubMed

Cutler, S J; Abdissa, A; Trape, J-F

2009-05-01

Relapsing fever, caused by spirochaetes belonging to the genus Borrelia, was once the cause of worldwide epidemic disease. This was largely through infection with the louse-borne form of the disease, caused by Borrelia recurrentis (louse-borne relapsing fever (LBRF)). During the last century, we have witnessed the demise of this infection, largely owing to improved standards of living and the introduction of the insecticide DDT, resulting in a reduction in the incidence of the body louse, the vector for relapsing fever. In areas of extreme poverty this disease persists, causing a significant burden of disease. It is now looking probable that this infection is caused by a louse-adapted variant of Borrelia duttonii, transmitted by Ornithodoros moubata 'soft' ticks in East Africa. Like LBRF, infection still causes impact, particularly affecting young children and pregnant women. Over recent years, the true burden of relapsing fever caused by infection with the closely related Borrelia crocidurae, transmitted by Ornithodoros sonrai ticks, has only just begun to emerge. Here, the current state of knowledge concerning relapsing fever in Africa is reviewed.

Recombinant Expression of a Genome-encoded N-acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine Amidase that Synergistically Lyses Listeria monocytogenes Biofilms with a Protease

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Listeria monocytogenes plays a significant role in human food-borne disease caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium and although incidence is low it is a leading cause of life-threatening, bacterial food-borne disease in humans. L. monocytogenes serotypes 1/2a and 4b can form mixed-cu...

The Pathology of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Progress in the 20th and 21st Centuries.

PubMed

Berg, Kyra; Wright, Joanne L

2016-12-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. There has been significant progress in the pathologic description and pathophysiologic analysis of COPD in the 20th and 21st centuries. We review the history, progression, and significance of pathologic alterations in COPD, including emphysematous changes, airway alterations, and vascular alterations. We also indicate what pathologic features of COPD the practicing pathologist should be describing in standard surgical and autopsy specimens.

Can Epiphytes reduce disease symptoms caused by Phytophthora ramorum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Leaf infection of ornamental species by Phytophthora ramorum has a significant impact on the spread of this disease. Fungicides have had limited effects on controlling this disease. With increasing concerns that repeated fungicide applications will exasperate the potential for fungicide resistance...

Biology Today: Parasites and Human Ecology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flannery, Maura C.

1984-01-01

Offers various reasons why the study of parasites and the diseases they cause should be incorporated into classroom biology discussions. Examples of several parasitic diseases and their ecological significance are provided. (JN)

Bronchiolitis obliterans and consumer exposure to butter-flavored microwave popcorn: a case series.

PubMed

Egilman, David S; Schilling, John Henry

2012-01-01

Respiratory exposure to diacetyl and diacetyl-containing flavorings used in butter-flavored microwave popcorn (BFMP) causes lung disease, including bronchiolitis obliterans (BO), in flavorings and popcorn manufacturing workers. However, there are no published reports of lung disease among BFMP consumers. We present a case series of three BFMP consumers with biopsy-confirmed BO. We review data relating to consumer exposures, estimate case exposures, and compare them to diacetyl-containing flavoring-exposed manufacturing workers with lung disease. These consumer cases' exposure levels are comparable to those that caused disease in workers. We were unable to identify any other exposures or diseases known or suspected to cause BO in these cases. BFMP poses a significant respiratory risk to consumers. Some manufacturers have substituted diacetyl with other alpha-diketones that are likely to pose a similar risk. Simple consumer practices such as cooling the popcorn bag would eliminate the risk of severe lung disease.

Dysphagia and sialorrhea: the relationship to Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Nicaretta, Denise Hack; Rosso, Ana Lucia; Mattos, James Pitágoras de; Maliska, Carmelindo; Costa, Milton M B

2013-01-01

Dysphagia and sialorrhea in patients with Parkinson's disease are both automatically accepted as dependent on this neurological disease. The aim were to establish if these two complaints are a consequence or associated manifestations of Parkinson's disease. Two Parkinson's diseases groups from the same outpatients' population were studied. Patients in the first group, with dysphagia, were studied by videofluoroscopy. The second, with sialorrhea, were studied by the scintigraphic method, Videofluoroscopic examination of the oral, pharyngeal and esophageal phases of swallowing showed that 94% of Parkinson's diseases patients present, structural causes, not related to Parkinson's diseases, able to produce or intensify the observed disphagia. The scintigraphic examination of Parkinson's diseases patients with sialorrhea showed that there is no increase of serous saliva production. Nevertheless, showed a significantly higher velocity of saliva excretion in the Parkinson's diseases patients. Dysphagia can be due to the muscular rigidity often present in the Parkinson's diseases patient, or more usually by non Parkinson's disease associated causes. In Parkinson's diseases patients, sialorrhea is produced by saliva retention. Nevertheless, sialorrhea can produce discomfort in swallowing, although without a formal complaint of dysphagia. In this case, subclinical dysphagia must be considered. Sialorrhea is indicative of dysphagia or at least of subclinical dysphagia. As final conclusion, Parkinson's diseases can be an isolated cause of dysphagia and/or sialorrhea, but frequently, a factor unrelated to Parkinson's diseases is the main cause of or at least aggravates the dysphagia.

Evaluation and identification of Marek’s disease virus BAC clones as standardized reagents for research

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Marek’s disease virus (MDV) is an alphaherpesvirus that causes Marek’s disease (MD), a lymphoproliferative disease in chickens. Understanding of MDV gene function advanced significantly following the cloning of the MDV genome as either a series of overlapping cosmids or as a bacterial artificial chr...

Characterization of Newcastle disease viruses isolated from cormorant and gull species in the United States in 2010

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Newcastle disease virus (NDV), a member of the genus Avulavirus of the family Paramyxoviridae, is the causative agent of Newcastle disease (ND) a highly contagious disease that affects many species of birds and which frequently causes significant economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide. V...

Beech Bark Disease

Treesearch

David R. Houston; James T. O' Brien

1983-01-01

Beech bark disease causes significant mortality and defect in American beech, Fagus grandifolia (Ehrh.). The disease results when bark, attacked and altered by the beech scale, Cryptococcus fagisuga Lind., is invaded and killed by fungi, primarily Nectria coccinea var. faginata Lohman, Watson, and Ayers, and sometimes N. galligena Bres.

Characterization of Verticillium dahliae disease reactions in lettuce differential cultivars

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soilborne diseases significantly affect high value crops in coastal California, including lettuce and strawberry. Breeding crops for pathogen resistance is a strategy for the sustainable management of crop disease. Verticillium dahliae is a soilborne fungus that causes wilt and economic losses in a ...

Singh's verbal autopsy questionnaire for the assessment of causes of death, social autopsy, tobacco autopsy and dietary autopsy, based on medical records and interview.

PubMed

Singh, Ram B; Fedacko, Jan; Vargova, Viola; Kumar, Adarsh; Mohan, Varun; Pella, Daniel; De Meester, Fabien; Wilson, Douglas

2011-08-01

The exact causes of death in India are not known because autopsy studies are difficult to conduct due to religious considerations. There are rapid changes in diet and lifestyle amongst social classes causing changes in the pattern of risk factors and mortality. In the present study, we attempt to develop a verbal autopsy questionnaire based on medical records and interview of a family member, for the assessment of causes of death, social class, tobacco consumption and dietary intakes among urban decedents in north India. For the period 1999-2001, we studied the randomly selected records of death of 2222 (1385 men and 837 women) decedents, aged 25-64 years, out of 3034 death records overall from the records at the Municipal Corporation, Moradabad. Families of these decedents were contacted individually to find out the causes of death, by scientist- administered, informed-consented, verbal autopsy questionnaire, completed with the help of the spouse and local treating doctor practicing in the appropriate health care region. Clinical data and causes of death were assessed by a questionnaire based on available hospital records and a modified WHO verbal autopsy questionnaire. Dietary intakes of the dead individuals were estimated by finding out the food intake of the spouse from 3-day dietary diaries and by asking probing questions about differences in food intake by the decedents. Tobacco consumption of the victim was studied by a questionnaire administered to family members. Social classes were assessed by a questionnaire based on attributes of per capita income, occupation, education, housing and ownership of consumer luxury items in the household. The diagnoses of overweight and obesity were based on the new WHO and International College of Nutrition criteria. Cardiac diseases (23.4%, n = 520) including coronary artery disease (10%), valvular heart disease (7.2%, n = 160), diabetic heart disease (2.2%, n = 49), sudden cardiac death and inflammatory cardiac disease, each (2.0%, n = 44) were the most common causes of deaths as reported using the modified verbal autopsy questionnaire. Brain diseases including stroke (7.8%, n = 175) and inflammatory brain disease were reported amongst 1.9% (n = 42) victims.Thus, NCDs (37.0%, n = 651); circulatory diseases (31.2%, n = 695) including stroke and cardiac diseases, and malignant neoplasms (5.8%, n = 131) emerged as the most common causes of death. Injury and accidents (14.0%, n = 313) including fire, falls and poisonings were also common. Miscellaneous causes of death were observed amongst 8.5% (n = 189) of victims. Pregnancy and perinatal causes (0.72%, n = 15) were not commonly recorded in our study. Renal diseases (11.2%, n = 250), pulmonary diseases (22.3%, n = 495) and liver diseases (4.8%, n =107) were also commonly recorded causes of death. It is clear that causes of death related to various body systems can be more accurately assessed by the modified verbal autopsy questionnaire. Circulatory diseases as the cause of mortality were significantly more common among higher social classes (1-3) than in lower social classes (4 and 5) who died more often, due to infections. Death due to coronary disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes and obesity were significantly more common among higher social classes 1-3 and among victims with higher body mass index (BMI) compared to social class 4 and 5 who had lower BMI. This study indicates that causes of death, social class, tobacco and dietary intakes, can be accurately assessed by a modified verbal autopsy questionnaire based on medical records and by interview of family members. Circulatory diseases, injury-accidents and maligant diseases have become the major causes of death in India, apart from infections.

NDRC: A Disease-Causing Genes Prioritized Method Based on Network Diffusion and Rank Concordance.

PubMed

Fang, Minghong; Hu, Xiaohua; Wang, Yan; Zhao, Junmin; Shen, Xianjun; He, Tingting

2015-07-01

Disease-causing genes prioritization is very important to understand disease mechanisms and biomedical applications, such as design of drugs. Previous studies have shown that promising candidate genes are mostly ranked according to their relatedness to known disease genes or closely related disease genes. Therefore, a dangling gene (isolated gene) with no edges in the network can not be effectively prioritized. These approaches tend to prioritize those genes that are highly connected in the PPI network while perform poorly when they are applied to loosely connected disease genes. To address these problems, we propose a new disease-causing genes prioritization method that based on network diffusion and rank concordance (NDRC). The method is evaluated by leave-one-out cross validation on 1931 diseases in which at least one gene is known to be involved, and it is able to rank the true causal gene first in 849 of all 2542 cases. The experimental results suggest that NDRC significantly outperforms other existing methods such as RWR, VAVIEN, DADA and PRINCE on identifying loosely connected disease genes and successfully put dangling genes as potential candidate disease genes. Furthermore, we apply NDRC method to study three representative diseases, Meckel syndrome 1, Protein C deficiency and Peroxisome biogenesis disorder 1A (Zellweger). Our study has also found that certain complex disease-causing genes can be divided into several modules that are closely associated with different disease phenotype.

Bordetellosis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This chapter, entitled "Bordetellosis", will be included in the 11th Edition of Diseases of Swine, and reviews the etiology, public health significance, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, lesions, diagnosis, immunity, and prevention and control of diseases caused by Bordetella bronchiseptic...

Kidney enlargement and multiple liver cyst formation implicate mutations in PKD1/2 in adult sporadic polycystic kidney disease.

PubMed

Fujimaru, T; Mori, T; Sekine, A; Mandai, S; Chiga, M; Kikuchi, H; Ando, F; Mori, Y; Nomura, N; Iimori, S; Naito, S; Okado, T; Rai, T; Hoshino, J; Ubara, Y; Uchida, S; Sohara, E

2018-07-01

Distinguishing autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) from other inherited renal cystic diseases in patients with adult polycystic kidney disease and no family history is critical for correct treatment and appropriate genetic counseling. However, for patients with no family history, there are no definitive imaging findings that provide an unequivocal ADPKD diagnosis. We analyzed 53 adult polycystic kidney disease patients with no family history. Comprehensive genetic testing was performed using capture-based next-generation sequencing for 69 genes currently known to cause hereditary renal cystic diseases including ADPKD. Through our analysis, 32 patients had PKD1 or PKD2 mutations. Additionally, 3 patients with disease-causing mutations in NPHP4, PKHD1, and OFD1 were diagnosed with an inherited renal cystic disease other than ADPKD. In patients with PKD1 or PKD2 mutations, the prevalence of polycystic liver disease, defined as more than 20 liver cysts, was significantly higher (71.9% vs 33.3%, P = .006), total kidney volume was significantly increased (median, 1580.7 mL vs 791.0 mL, P = .027) and mean arterial pressure was significantly higher (median, 98 mm Hg vs 91 mm Hg, P = .012). The genetic screening approach and clinical features described here are potentially beneficial for optimal management of adult sporadic polycystic kidney disease patients. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Challenges and successes in managing oak wilt in the United States

Treesearch

Jennifer Juzwik; David N. Appel; William L. MacDonald; Susan. Burks

2011-01-01

Oak wilt, caused by the fungus Ceratocystis fagacearum (Bretz) J. Hunt, is an important disease of oaks (Quercus spp.) in the eastern United States. It has been particularly destructive in the North Central states and Texas. Oak wilt is one of several significant oak diseases that threaten oak health worldwide. The significant...

Health state of adolescents in the Republic Sakha (Yakutia).

PubMed

Egorova, Vera B; Savvina, Nadezhda V; Munkhalova, Yana A; Dmitrieva, Tatyana G; Markova, Sardana V; Artamonova, Sargylana U

2016-01-01

According to the state policy in the field of health care, one of the priority directions is the improving of medical care for children's population [1]. It should be noted, that the state of health of the population and the development of society as a whole is largely determined by the level of adolescents health who have a significant impact on the health of the nation as a whole, and form the cultural, intellectual, industrial and reproductive potential [2, 3]. This article analyzes the health status indicators of adolescent population of the Republic Sakha (Yakutia), including the dynamics of the disease, including socially conditioned diseases, disability and mortality among the teenage population. To study of health status of adolescents, social condition of life and there dynamic we use statistic materials of Yakut Republican Medical informative-analytic center, carry out medical prophylactic examination and survey research of 748 adolescents in 7 districts of republic, using questionnaires Global epidemic surveillance system health status of schoolchildren with support from WHO / UNAIDS / UNICEF / UNESCOCO. Established negative trend of deceasing of adolescent population, the increase in performance of both primary and general morbidity. Out of the total incidence of first place ranking among teenagers occupied by respiratory diseases, diseases of the eye and diseases of the digestive system. The most intensive increased prevalence of neurological diseases, cardiovascular system diseases, injuries and poisoning, and others external causes. Over the years remain unstable indicators of socio-caused diseases (alcoholism, drug addiction, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted infections). Despite the positive dynamics of some socially constructed and socially significant diseases, the relevance of this problem persists. Analysis of the dynamics of disability among children and adolescents showed a reduction in performance. In the structure of disability dominate diseases of the nervous system and sensory organs, congenital malformations and mental illness. Among the main causes of deaths in adolescence are external causes, there is no downward trend. There were significant gender differences, the increase in mortality associated with substance use among children died prevail children Yakut nationality. These results let us to plan and conduct the prophylactic work to decrease the pathology level among adolescents, and also to detect the need in medical staff and other resources.

Causes and Disparities in Death Rates Among Urban American Indian and Alaska Native Populations, 1999-2009.

PubMed

Jacobs-Wingo, Jasmine L; Espey, David K; Groom, Amy V; Phillips, Leslie E; Haverkamp, Donald S; Stanley, Sandte L

2016-05-01

To characterize the leading causes of death for the urban American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) population and compare with urban White and rural AI/AN populations. We linked Indian Health Service patient registration records with the National Death Index to reduce racial misclassification in death certificate data. We calculated age-adjusted urban AI/AN death rates for the period 1999-2009 and compared those with corresponding urban White and rural AI/AN death rates. The top-5 leading causes of death among urban AI/AN persons were heart disease, cancer, unintentional injury, diabetes, and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Compared with urban White persons, urban AI/AN persons experienced significantly higher death rates for all top-5 leading causes. The largest disparities were for diabetes and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. In general, urban and rural AI/AN persons had the same leading causes of death, although urban AI/AN persons had lower death rates for most conditions. Urban AI/AN persons experience significant disparities in death rates compared with their White counterparts. Public health and clinical interventions should target urban AI/AN persons to address behaviors and conditions contributing to health disparities.

Corneal blindness: a global perspective.

PubMed Central

Whitcher, J. P.; Srinivasan, M.; Upadhyay, M. P.

2001-01-01

Diseases affecting the cornea are a major cause of blindness worldwide, second only to cataract in overall importance. The epidemiology of corneal blindness is complicated and encompasses a wide variety of infectious and inflammatory eye diseses that cause corneal scarring, which ultimately leads to functional blindness. In addition, the prevalence of corneal disease varies from country to country and even from one population to another. While cataract is responsible for nearly 20 million of the 45 million blind people in the world, the next major cause is trachoma which blinds 4.9 million individuals, mainly as a result of corneal scarring and vascularization. Ocular trauma and corneal ulceration are significant causes of corneal blindness that are often underreported but may be responsible for 1.5-2.0 million new cases of monocular blindness every year. Causes of childhood blindness (about 1.5 million worldwide with 5 million visually disabled) include xerophthalmia (350,000 cases annually), ophthalmia neonatorum, and less frequently seen ocular diseases such as herpes simplex virus infections and vernal keratoconjunctivitis. Even though the control of onchocerciasis and leprosy are public health success stories, these diseases are still significant causes of blindness--affecting a quarter of a million individuals each. Traditional eye medicines have also been implicated as a major risk factor in the current epidemic of corneal ulceration in developing countries. Because of the difficulty of treating corneal blindness once it has occurred, public health prevention programmes are the most cost-effective means of decreasing the global burden of corneal blindness. PMID:11285665

Cross inoculation of anthracnose pathogens infecting various tropical fruits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suparman; Rahmiyah, M.; Pujiastuti, Y.; Gunawan, B.; Arsi

2018-01-01

Anthracnose disease is very important disease of tropical fruits causing significant yield losses. The disease is caused by Colletotrichum spp. and infects almost all tropical fruit species, especially the succulent ones. Various species of Colletotrichum infect various tropical fruits and there are possibilities for cross inoculation to occur among tropical fruits which might cause severe infection. An experimental research was conducted to examine the effect of cross inoculation of anthracnose pathogen among papaya, eggplant, chili and common bean on the infection development and severity of the disease on each inoculated fruit species. Colletotrichum spp. were isolated from naturally infected papaya, eggplant, chili and common bean. Each fungal isolate was purified and identified to determine the species name. The spores of each isolate were then used to separately inoculate healthy and sterilized papaya, eggplant, chili and common bean. The results showed that cross infection developed on chili, eggplant and papaya but not on bean. Chili showed the highest susceptibility to all Colletotrichum isolates and significantly different from eggplant and papaya. The anthracnose pathogen isolated from common bean showed no pathogenicity to other hosts and might be used as cross protection inoculant to the disease in the other hosts.

Male unemployment and cause-specific mortality in postwar Scotland.

PubMed

Forbes, J F; McGregor, A

1987-01-01

This article reports a time-series analysis of male unemployment and mortality in postwar Scotland. The results provide little evidence to support the hypothesis that unemployment exerts a significant and consistent positive impact on mortality from all causes, lung cancer, ischemic heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. Although significant positive associations between unemployment and mortality from lung cancer and ischemic heart disease were detected for older males in the short term, the long-term association between unemployment and mortality tends to be negative. Further progress on establishing possible causal relationships between unemployment and health requires both the collaboration of medical and social scientists and a well designed prospective study that avoids many of the problems associated with time-series and cross-sectional analyses.

Acid-fast lipids are important structural components of oocyst walls of Cryptosporidium, Toxoplasma, and Eimeria

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Coccidia are protozoan parasites that cause significant human disease and are of major agricultural importance. Cryptosporidium spp.cause diarrhea in humans and animals, while congenital Toxoplasma infections causes blindness and death. Eimeria kills chickens, so all poultry feed contain antibioti...

Mortality in coeliac disease: a population-based cohort study from a single centre in Southern Derbyshire, UK

PubMed Central

Holmes, Geoffrey K T; Muirhead, Andrew

2018-01-01

Objective With the advent of screening tests, it was hypothesised that milder cases of coeliac disease coming to diagnosis might have reduced risk of mortality. An earlier publication did not support this view. We have re-examined this issue employing a larger number of patients followed for a further 8 years. Design Patients with coeliac disease from Southern Derbyshire, UK, were followed prospectively from 1978 to 2014 and included those diagnosed by biopsy and serology. Causes of death were ascertained. Standardised mortality ratios were calculated for all deaths, cardiovascular disease, malignancy, accidents and suicides, respiratory and digestive disease. Ratios were calculated for individual causes. Analysis centred on the postdiagnosis period that included follow-up time beginning 2 years from the date of coeliac disease diagnosis to avoid ascertainment bias. Patients were stratified according to date of diagnosis to reflect increasing use of serological methods. Results All-cause mortality increase was 57%. Mortality in the serology era declined overall. Mortality from cardiovascular disease, specifically, decreased significantly over time. Death from respiratory disease significantly increased in the postdiagnosis period. The standardised mortality ratio for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma was 6.32, for pneumonia 2.58, for oesophageal cancer 2.80 and for liver disease 3.10. Survival in those who died after diagnosis increased by three times over the past three decades. Conclusions Serological testing has impacted on the risk of mortality in coeliac disease. There is an opportunity to improve survival by implementing vaccination programmes for pneumonia and more prompt, aggressive treatments for liver disease. PMID:29686881

Association of disease-specific causes of visual impairment and 10-year mortality amongst Indigenous Australians: the Central Australian Ocular Health Study.

PubMed

Estevez, José; Kaidonis, Georgia; Henderson, Tim; Craig, Jamie E; Landers, John

2018-01-01

Visual impairment significantly impairs the length and quality of life, but little is known of its impact in Indigenous Australians. To investigate the association of disease-specific causes of visual impairment with all-cause mortality. A retrospective cohort analysis. A total of 1347 Indigenous Australians aged over 40 years. Participants visiting remote medical clinics underwent clinical examinations including visual acuity, subjective refraction and slit-lamp examination of the anterior and posterior segments. The major ocular cause of visual impairment was determined. Patients were assessed periodically in these remote clinics for the succeeding 10 years after recruitment. Mortality rates were obtained from relevant departments. All-cause 10-year mortality and its association with disease-specific causes of visual impairment. The all-cause mortality rate for the entire cohort was 29.3% at the 10-year completion of follow-up. Of those with visual impairment, the overall mortality rate was 44.9%. The mortality rates differed for those with visual impairment due to cataract (59.8%), diabetic retinopathy (48.4%), trachoma (46.6%), 'other' (36.2%) and refractive error (33.4%) (P < 0.0001). Only those with visual impairment from diabetic retinopathy were any more likely to die during the 10 years of follow-up when compared with those without visual impairment (HR 1.70; 95% CI, 1.00-2.87; P = 0.049). Visual impairment was associated with all-cause mortality in a cohort of Indigenous Australians. However, diabetic retinopathy was the only ocular disease that significantly increased the risk of mortality. Visual impairment secondary to diabetic retinopathy may be an important predictor of mortality. © 2017 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.

The genetics of congenital heart disease… understanding and improving long-term outcomes in congenital heart disease: a review for the general cardiologist and primary care physician.

PubMed

Simmons, M Abigail; Brueckner, Martina

2017-10-01

This review has two purposes: to provide an updated review of the genetic causes of congenital heart disease (CHD) and the clinical implications of these genetic mutations, and to provide a clinical algorithm for clinicians considering a genetics evaluation of a CHD patient. A large portion of congenital heart disease is thought to have a significant genetic contribution, and at this time a genetic cause can be identified in approximately 35% of patients. Through the advances made possible by next generation sequencing, many of the comorbidities that are frequently seen in patients with genetic congenital heart disease patients can be attributed to the genetic mutation that caused the congenital heart disease. These comorbidities are both cardiac and noncardiac and include: neurodevelopmental disability, pulmonary disease, heart failure, renal dysfunction, arrhythmia and an increased risk of malignancy. Identification of the genetic cause of congenital heart disease helps reduce patient morbidity and mortality by improving preventive and early intervention therapies to address these comorbidities. Through an understanding of the clinical implications of the genetic underpinning of congenital heart disease, clinicians can provide care tailored to an individual patient and continue to improve the outcomes of congenital heart disease patients.

Aspirin for primary prevention of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality events in diabetes: updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Kunutsor, S K; Seidu, S; Khunti, K

2017-03-01

To evaluate the benefits and harms of aspirin for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality events in people with diabetes by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Randomized controlled trials of aspirin compared with placebo (or no treatment) in people with diabetes with no history of cardiovascular disease were identified from MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library and a manual search of bibliographies to November 2015. Study-specific relative risks with 95% CIs were aggregated using random effects models. A total of 10 randomized trials were included in the review. There was a significant reduction in risk of major adverse cardiovascular events: relative risk of 0.90 (95% CI 0.81-0.99) in groups taking aspirin compared with placebo or no treatment. Limited subgroup analyses suggested that the effect of aspirin on major adverse cardiovascular events differed by baseline cardiovascular disease risk, medication compliance and sex (P for interaction for all > 0.05).There was no significant reduction in the risk of myocardial infarction, coronary heart disease, stroke, cardiovascular mortality or all-cause mortality. Aspirin significantly reduced the risk of myocardial infarction for a treatment duration of ≤ 5 years. There were differences in the effect of aspirin by dosage and treatment duration on overall stroke outcomes (P for interaction for all < 0.05). There was an increase in risk of major or gastrointestinal bleeding events, but estimates were imprecise and not significant. The emerging data do not clearly support guidelines that encourage the use of aspirin for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in adults with diabetes who are at increased cardiovascular disease risk. © 2016 Diabetes UK.

Ocular complications of diabetes mellitus

PubMed Central

Sayin, Nihat; Kara, Necip; Pekel, Gökhan

2015-01-01

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a important health problem that induces ernestful complications and it causes significant morbidity owing to specific microvascular complications such as, retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy, and macrovascular complications such as, ischaemic heart disease, and peripheral vasculopathy. It can affect children, young people and adults and is becoming more common. Ocular complications associated with DM are progressive and rapidly becoming the world’s most significant cause of morbidity and are preventable with early detection and timely treatment. This review provides an overview of five main ocular complications associated with DM, diabetic retinopathy and papillopathy, cataract, glaucoma, and ocular surface diseases. PMID:25685281

An update on Legionella.

PubMed

Carratalà, Jordi; Garcia-Vidal, Carolina

2010-04-01

Legionella pneumophila is increasingly recognized as a significant cause of sporadic and epidemic community-acquired and nosocomial-acquired pneumonia. This review focuses on the latest literature concerning the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of Legionnaires' disease. A significant increase in the incidence of Legionnaires' disease in the United States has been documented over the last years. L. pneumophila has recently been found to be a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia in hospitalized and ambulatory patients in Germany. Recent studies provide insight into the understanding of the pathogenesis of Legionnaires' disease and the relevance of the formation of biofilms. Clinical manifestations of Legionnaires' disease are not specific and current diagnostic scores are of limited use. Several recent studies offer useful information concerning Legionnaires' disease in immunosuppressed patients. A systematic review of English literature performed to assess test characteristics of Legionella urinary antigen has found that the pooled sensitivity of the test was 0.74 and specificity was 0.991. Improved clinical response has been observed for patients with Legionnaires' disease treated with highly active antimicrobial agents against Legionella. Legionnaires' disease is a significant health problem in many countries. Clinical manifestations are unreliable in diagnosing Legionnaires' disease. Therefore, diagnostic laboratory tests for Legionella, including the urinary antigen test, should be applied to all patients with pneumonia. Levofloxacin (or other fluoroquinolone) or azithromycin are the current drugs of choice for treatment of Legionnaires' disease. Effective preventive strategies are needed.

Changes in causes of death among persons with AIDS: San Francisco, California, 1996-2011.

PubMed

Schwarcz, Sandra K; Vu, Annie; Hsu, Ling Chin; Hessol, Nancy A

2014-10-01

The increased life expectancy among HIV-infected persons treated with combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), risk behaviors, and co-morbidities associated with ART place HIV-infected persons at risk for non-HIV-related causes of death. We used the San Francisco HIV/AIDS registry to identify deaths that occurred from January 1996 through December 2011. Temporal trends in AIDS- and non-AIDS-related mortality rates, the proportion of underlying and contributory causes of death, and the ratio of observed deaths in the study population to expected number of deaths among California men aged 20-79 (standardized mortality ratio [SMR]) of underlying causes of death were examined. A total of 5338 deaths were identified. The annual AIDS-related death rate (per 100 deaths) declined from 10.8 in 1996 to 0.9 in 2011 (p<0.0001), while the annual death rate from non-AIDS-related causes declined from 2.1 in 1996 to 0.9 in 2011 (p<0.0001). The proportion of deaths due to all types of heart disease combined, all non-AIDS cancers combined, mental disorders resulting from substance abuse, drug overdose, suicide and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease increased significantly over time. The SMRs for liver diseased decreased significantly over time but remained elevated. Our data highlight the importance of age-related causes of death as well as deaths from causes that are, at least in part, preventable.

Japanese encephalitis virus infection, diagnosis and control in domestic animals.

PubMed

Mansfield, Karen L; Hernández-Triana, Luis M; Banyard, Ashley C; Fooks, Anthony R; Johnson, Nicholas

2017-03-01

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a significant cause of neurological disease in humans throughout Asia causing an estimated 70,000 human cases each year with approximately 10,000 fatalities. The virus contains a positive sense RNA genome within a host-derived membrane and is classified within the family Flaviviridae. Like many flaviviruses, it is transmitted by mosquitoes, particularly those of the genus Culex in a natural cycle involving birds and some livestock species. Spill-over into domestic animals results in a spectrum of disease ranging from asymptomatic infection in some species to acute neurological signs in others. The impact of JEV infection is particularly apparent in pigs. Although infection in adult swine does not result in symptomatic disease, it is considered a significant reproductive problem causing abortion, still-birth and birth defects. Infected piglets can display fatal neurological disease. Equines are also infected, resulting in non-specific signs including pyrexia, but occasionally leading to overt neurological disease that in extreme cases can lead to death. Veterinary vaccination is available for both pigs and horses. This review of JEV disease in livestock considers the current diagnostic techniques available for detection of the virus. Options for disease control and prevention within the veterinary sector are discussed. Such measures are critical in breaking the link to zoonotic transmission into the human population where humans are dead-end hosts. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Economic inequality caused by feedbacks between poverty and the dynamics of a rare tropical disease: the case of Buruli ulcer in sub-Saharan Africa

PubMed Central

Garchitorena, Andrés; Ngonghala, Calistus N.; Guegan, Jean-Francois; Texier, Gaëtan; Bellanger, Martine; Bonds, Matthew; Roche, Benjamin

2015-01-01

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) have received increasing attention in recent years by the global heath community, as they cumulatively constitute substantial burdens of disease as well as barriers for economic development. A number of common tropical diseases such as malaria, hookworm or schistosomiasis have well-documented economic impacts. However, much less is known about the population-level impacts of diseases that are rare but associated with high disability burden, which represent a great number of tropical diseases. Using an individual-based model of Buruli ulcer (BU), we demonstrate that, through feedbacks between health and economic status, such NTDs can have a significant impact on the economic structure of human populations even at low incidence levels. While average wealth is only marginally affected by BU, the economic conditions of certain subpopulations are impacted sufficiently to create changes in measurable population-level inequality. A reduction of the disability burden caused by BU can thus maximize the economic growth of the poorest subpopulations and reduce significantly the economic inequalities introduced by the disease in endemic regions. PMID:26538592

Resiliency or restoration: management of sudden oak death before and after outbreak

Treesearch

Richard Cobb; Peter Hartsough; Noam Ross; Janet Klein; David LaFever; Susan Frankel; David Rizzo

2017-01-01

Forests at risk to diseases caused by invasive Phytophthora pathogens can be grouped into two broad classes: those already invaded by the focal pathogen where disease has emerged or those at significant risk of invasion and subsequent emergence of disease. This dichotomy represents distinct management scenarios – treating after or before disease...

The psychosocial impact of vitiligo in Indian patients.

PubMed

Pahwa, Pooja; Mehta, Manju; Khaitan, Binod K; Sharma, Vinod K; Ramam, M

2013-01-01

Vitiligo has a special significance in Indian patients both because depigmentation is obvious on darker skin and the enormous stigma associated with the disease in the culture. This study was carried out to determine the beliefs about causation, aspects of the disease that cause concern, medical, and psychosocial needs of the patients, expectation from treatment and from the treating physician, and effects of disease on the patient's life. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 50 patients with vitiligo. Purposive sampling was used to select subjects for the study. Each interview was recorded on an audio-cassette and transcripts were analyzed to identify significant issues and concerns. Patients had a range of concerns regarding their disease such as physical appearance, progression of white patches onto exposed skin and the whole body, ostracism, social restriction, dietary restrictions, difficulty in getting jobs, and they considered it to be a significant barrier to getting married. The condition was perceived to be a serious illness. Stigma and suicidal ideation was reported. While there were several misconceptions about the cause of vitiligo, most patients did not think their disease was contagious, heritable or related to leprosy. Multiple medical consultations were frequent. Complete repigmentation was strongly desired, but a lesser degree of repigmentation was acceptable if progression of disease could be arrested. The problems were perceived to be more severe in women. The disease imposed a significant financial burden. Addressing psychosocial factors is an important aspect of the management of vitiligo, particularly in patients from communities where the disease is greatly stigmatizing.

Leading medical causes of mortality among male prisoners in Texas, 1992--2003.

PubMed

Harzke, Amy J; Baillargeon, Jacques G; Kelley, Michael F; Pruitt, Sandi L; Pulvino, John S; Paar, David P

2011-07-01

Data from the Texas prison system and the Texas Vital Statistics Bureau were used to identify and assess the leading medical causes of death from 1992 to 2003 among male prisoners in Texas (N = 4,026). The leading medical causes of death were infection, cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), liver disease, and respiratory disease. Of these, only cancer showed a significant average annual increase in crude death rates (2.5% [0.2% to 4.9%]). Among prisoners aged 55 to 84 years, crude average annual death rates due to cancer and CVD were high and substantially exceeded death rates due to other causes. Among prisoners aged 25 to 44 years, crude average annual death rates due to infection exceeded death rates due to other causes. Continued improvements in the prevention, screening, and treatment of these conditions are warranted in correctional health care settings.

Molecular Diagnosis of Putative Stargardt Disease by Capture Next Generation Sequencing

PubMed Central

Shi, Wei; Huang, Ping; Min, Qingjie; Li, Minghan; Yu, Xinping; Wu, Yaming; Zhao, Guangyu; Tong, Yi; Jin, Zi-Bing; Qu, Jia; Gu, Feng

2014-01-01

Stargardt Disease (STGD) is the commonest genetic form of juvenile or early adult onset macular degeneration, which is a genetically heterogeneous disease. Molecular diagnosis of STGD remains a challenge in a significant proportion of cases. To address this, seven patients from five putative STGD families were recruited. We performed capture next generation sequencing (CNGS) of the probands and searched for potentially disease-causing genetic variants in previously identified retinal or macular dystrophy genes. Seven disease-causing mutations in ABCA4 and two in PROM1 were identified by CNGS, which provides a confident genetic diagnosis in these five families. We also provided a genetic basis to explain the differences among putative STGD due to various mutations in different genes. Meanwhile, we show for the first time that compound heterozygous mutations in PROM1 gene could cause cone-rod dystrophy. Our findings support the enormous potential of CNGS in putative STGD molecular diagnosis. PMID:24763286

Methylmercury exposure and mortality in southern Japan: a close look at causes of death.

PubMed Central

Tamashiro, H; Arakaki, M; Futatsuka, M; Lee, E S

1986-01-01

This study examines mortality patterns by cause of death to investigate the effect of exposure to methylmercury in a small area of Minamata City (Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan), which has the highest concentration of patients with Minamata disease. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) are computed by cause of death for the study area, using the age specific rates of the entire city as a standard. The SMRs for liver cancer and chronic liver disease in the study area are significantly higher than unity and are consistent with the mortality patterns of registered Minamata disease patients. While an excess mortality is observed for cerebral haemorrhage, mortality from cerebral infarction and other cerebrovascular diseases is considerably lower in the study area. The multiple risk factors of liver related diseases and a possible explanation for the cerebrovascular mortality patterns are discussed to suggest further investigation. PMID:3746182

Epidemiology and detection as options for control of viral and parasitic foodborne disease.

PubMed Central

Jaykus, L. A.

1997-01-01

Human enteric viruses and protozoal parasites are important causes of emerging food and waterborne disease. Epidemiologic investigation and detection of the agents in clinical, food, and water specimens, which are traditionally used to establish the cause of disease outbreaks, are either cumbersome, expensive, and frequently unavailable or unattempted for the important food and waterborne enteric viruses and protozoa. However, the recent introduction of regulatory testing mandates, alternative testing strategies, and increased epidemiologic surveillance for food and waterborne disease should significantly improve the ability to detect and control these agents. We discuss new methods of investigating foodborne viral and parasitic disease and the future of these methods in recognizing, identifying, and controlling disease agents. PMID:9366607

Current Understanding of Immunity to Trypanosoma cruzi Infection and Pathogenesis of Chagas Disease

PubMed Central

Machado, Fabiana S.; Dutra, Walderez O.; Esper, Lisia; Gollob, Kenneth; Teixeira, Mauro M.; Factor, Stephen M.; Weiss, Louis M.; Nagajyothi, Fnu; Tanowitz, Herbert B.; Garg, Nisha J.

2012-01-01

Chagas disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi remains an important neglected tropical disease and a cause of significant morbidity and mortality. No longer confined to endemic areas of Latin America, it is now found in non-endemic areas due to immigration. The parasite may persist in any tissue, but in recent years there has been increased recognition of adipose tissue both as an early target of infection and a reservoir of chronic infection. The major complications of this disease are cardiomyopathy and megasyndromes involving the gastrointestinal tract. The pathogenesis of Chagas disease is complex and multifactorial involving many interactive pathways. The significance of innate immunity, including the contributions of cytokines, chemokines, reactive oxygen species, and oxidative stress, has been emphasized. The role of the components of the eicosanoid pathway such as thromboxane A2 and the lipoxins has been demonstrated to have profound effects as both pro-and anti-inflammatory factors. Additionally, we discuss the vasoconstrictive actions of thromboxane A2 and endothelin-1n Chagas disease. Human immunity to T. cruzi infection and its role in pathogen control and disease progression have not been fully investigated. However, recently, it was demonstrated that a reduction in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was associated with clinically significant chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy. PMID:23076807

Enhanced host immune recognition of E.coli causing mastitis in CD-14 transgenic mice.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Escherchia coli causes mastitis, an economically significant disease in dairy animals. E. coli endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) when bound by host membrane proteins such as CD-14, causes release of pro-inflammatory cytokines recruiting neutrophils as a early innate immune response. Excessive pr...

Optimal strategies for the eradication of Asiatic citrus canker in heterogeneous host landscapes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The eradication of non-native plant pathogens is a key challenge in plant disease epidemiology. Asiatic citrus canker is an economically significant disease of citrus caused by the bacterial plant pathogen Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri. The pathogen is a major exotic disease problem in many citru...

Emergence of new sub-genotypes of virulent Newcastle disease virus with panzootic features

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains with epizootic characteristics from three new sub-genotypes of genotypes VII and XIII are rapidly spreading through Asia and the Middle East causing outbreaks of Newcastle disease (ND) that are producing significant illness and mortality in vaccinated poultry, s...

Metabolic, Immune, Epigenetic, Endocrine and Phenotypic Abnormalities Found in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome and Alzheimer Disease May Be Caused by Congenital and/or Acquired Chronic Cerebral Toxoplasmosis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prandota, Joseph

2011-01-01

"Toxoplasma gondii" is a protozoan parasite that infects about a third of human population. It is generally believed that in immunocompetent hosts, the parasite infection takes usually asymptomatic course and induces self-limiting disease, but in immunocompromised individuals may cause significant morbidity and mortality. "T. gondii" uses sulfated…

[Etiological analysis of 264 cases with chronic kidney disease stage 2 to 5 in children].

PubMed

Miao, Qianfan; Shen, Qian; Xu, Hong; Sun, Li; Tang, Xiaoshan; Fang, Xiaoyan; Liu, Haimei; Zhai, Yihui; Bi, Yunli; Wang, Xiang; Chen, Hong

2015-09-01

To study and summarize the etiology of children patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 2 to 5 seen in Children's Hospital of Fudan University from Jan. 2004 to Dec. 2013. By complying with the NKF-K/DOQI guidelines, we collected data of 264 cases of children patients with CKD stage 2-5 from Jan. 2004 to Dec. 2013 in the medical record system of Children's Hospital of Fudan University. And we retrospectively analyzed their age and CKD stage at first diagnosis, primary diseases, complications, etc. In the collected 264 cases, 52 cases (19.7%) were diagnosed at stage 2, 67 (25.4%) at stage 3, 52 (19.7%) at stage 4 and 93 (35.2%) at stage 5. For disease causes, 116 cases (43.9%) had congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT), 61 cases (23.1%) had glomerular disease, 15 (5.7%) had hereditary kidney disease, 14 (5.3%) had other diseases and in 58 cases (22.0%) the causes of disease were unknown. In the group with age between 0 and 3.0 and 3.1 and 6.0 years, 57.1% (24 cases) and 60.0% (30 cases) had primary disease with CAKUT. In the group with age older than 10 years, 49.2% (30 cases) had primary disease with glomerular disease and 32.0% (32 cases) with unknown causes. The major cause of CKD stage 2-5 in children in our hospital during the last ten years was CAKUT (43.9%), followed by glomerular disease (23.1%). The primary diseases of CKD were significantly different between the 2 age groups. CAKUT was more common in infants and preschool children while for adolescents, glomerular disease was the major cause.

microRNA in Cerebral Spinal Fluid as Biomarkers of Alzheimer’s Disease Risk After Brain Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

protein processing is a key feature of AD. MiRNAs are small non- coding RNA that regulate mRNA transcription, and may be a significant cause of protein...non- coding RNA that regulate mRNA transcription, and may be a significant cause of protein dysregulation. Our investigative team has generated

Salmonella Infections

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Infections with bacteria of the genus Salmonella are responsible for both acute and chronic poultry diseases. These diseases cause economically significant losses for poultry producers in many nations and absorb large investments of public and private resources in testing and control efforts. Infect...

Social networks and mortality based on the Komo-Ise cohort study in Japan.

PubMed

Iwasaki, Motoki; Otani, Tetsuya; Sunaga, Rumiko; Miyazaki, Hiroko; Xiao, Liu; Wang, Naren; Yosiaki, Sasazawa; Suzuki, Shosuke

2002-12-01

No prospective studies have examined the association between social networks and all-cause and cause-specific mortality among middle-aged Japanese. The study of varied populations may contribute to clarifying the robustness of the observed effects of social networks and extend their generalizability. To clarify the association between social networks and mortality among middle-aged and elderly Japanese, a community-based prospective study, the Komo-Ise Study, was conducted in two areas of Gunma Prefecture, Japan. A total of 11 565 subjects aged 40-69 years at baseline in 1993 completed a self-administered questionnaire. During the 7-year follow-up period, 335 men and 155 women died and the relative risk (RR) of each social network item was estimated by the Cox proportional hazard model. Single women had significantly increased risks of all-cause (multivariate RR = 2.2), and all circulatory system disease (age-area adjusted RR = 2.6) mortality. Men who did not participate in hobbies, club activities, or community groups had significantly higher multivariate RR for all-cause (RR = 1.5), all circulatory system disease (RR = 1.6) and non-cancer and non-circulatory system disease (RR = 2.3) mortality. Urban women who rarely or never met close relatives had significantly elevated risks of all-cause (RR = 2.4), all cancer (RR = 2.6), and non-cancer and non-circulatory system disease (RR = 2.7) mortality after adjustment for established risk factors. This study provides evidence that social networks are an important predictor of mortality risk for middle-aged and elderly Japanese men and women. Lack of participation, for men, and being single and lack of meeting close relatives, for women, were independent risk factors for mortality.

Aspergillosis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Friend, M.

1999-01-01

Aspergillosis is a respiratory tract infection caused by fungi of the genus Aspergillus, of which A. fumigatus is the primary species responsible for infections in wild birds (Fig. 13.1). Aspergillosis is not contagious (it will not spread from bird to bird), and it may be an acute, rapidly fatal disease or a more chronic disease. Both forms of the disease are commonly seen in free-ranging birds, but the acute form is generally responsible for large-scale mortality events in adult birds and for brooder pneumonia in hatching birds. Aspergillus sp. also produce aflatoxins (see Chapter 37, Mycotoxins), but the significance of those toxins in the ability of the fungus to cause disease in birds is unknown.

Dog Ownership and Mortality in England: A Pooled Analysis of Six Population-based Cohorts.

PubMed

Ding, Ding; Bauman, Adrian E; Sherrington, Cathie; McGreevy, Paul D; Edwards, Kate M; Stamatakis, Emmanuel

2018-02-01

Dog ownership may be associated with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease. However, data are scant on the relationship between dog ownership and all-cause and cause-specific mortality risk. Data from six separate cohorts (1995-1997, 2001-2002, 2004) of the Health Survey for England were pooled and analyzed in 2017. Participants were 59,352 adults (mean age 46.5, SD=17.9 years) who consented to be linked to the National Death Registry. Living in a household with a dog was reported at baseline. Outcomes included all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality (determined using ICD-9 codes 390-459, ICD-10 codes I01-I99). Multilevel Weibull survival analysis was used to examine the associations between dog ownership and mortality, adjusted for various sociodemographic and lifestyle variables. Potential effect modifiers, including age, sex, education, living circumstances, longstanding illness, and prior diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, were also examined. During 679,441 person-years of follow-up (mean 11.5, SD=3.8 years), 8,169 participants died from all causes and 2,451 from cardiovascular disease. In the fully adjusted models, there was no statistically significant association between dog ownership and mortality outcomes (hazard ratio=1.03, 95% CI=0.98, 1.09, for all-cause mortality; and hazard ratio=1.07, 95% CI=0.96, 1.18, for cardiovascular disease mortality) and no significant effect modification. There is no evidence for an association between living in a household with a dog and all-cause or cardiovascular disease mortality in this large sample. These results should be interpreted in light of limitations in the measurement of dog ownership and its complexity in potential long-term health implications. Future studies should measure specific aspects of ownership, such as caring responsibilities and temporality. Copyright © 2017 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rift Valley Fever: An Emerging Mosquito-Borne Disease.

PubMed

Linthicum, Kenneth J; Britch, Seth C; Anyamba, Assaf

2016-01-01

Rift Valley fever (RVF), an emerging mosquito-borne zoonotic infectious viral disease caused by the RVF virus (RVFV) (Bunyaviridae: Phlebovirus), presents significant threats to global public health and agriculture in Africa and the Middle East. RVFV is listed as a select agent with significant potential for international spread and use in bioterrorism. RVFV has caused large, devastating periodic epizootics and epidemics in Africa over the past ∼60 years, with severe economic and nutritional impacts on humans from illness and livestock loss. In the past 15 years alone, RVFV caused tens of thousands of human cases, hundreds of human deaths, and more than 100,000 domestic animal deaths. Cattle, sheep, goats, and camels are particularly susceptible to RVF and serve as amplifying hosts for the virus. This review highlights recent research on RVF, focusing on vectors and their ecology, transmission dynamics, and use of environmental and climate data to predict disease outbreaks. Important directions for future research are also discussed.

Effects of short-term hypersalinity exposure on the susceptibility to wasting disease in the subtropical seagrass Thalassia testudinum.

PubMed

Trevathan, Stacey M; Kahn, Amanda; Ross, Cliff

2011-09-01

Seagrass meadows are a vital component of coastal ecosystems and have experienced declines in abundance due to a series of environmental stressors including elevated salinity and incidence of disease. This study evaluated the impacts of short-term hypersalinity stress on the early stages of infection in Thalassia testudinum Banks ex König by assessing changes in cellular physiology and metabolism. Seagrass short shoots were exposed to ambient (30 psu) and elevated (45 psu) salinities for 7 days and subsequently infected for one week by the causative pathogen of wasting disease, Labyrinthula sp. The occurrence of wasting disease was significantly lower in the hypersalinity treatments. Additionally, while exposure to elevated salinity caused a reduction in chlorophyll a and b content, T. testudinum's health, in terms of photochemical efficiency, was not significantly compromised by hypersalinity or infection. In contrast, plant respiratory demand was significantly enhanced as a function of infection. Elevated salinity caused T. testudinum to significantly increase its in vivo H(2)O(2) concentrations to levels that exceeded those which inhibited Labyrinthula growth in a liquid in vitro assay. The results suggest that while short-term exposure to hypersalinity alters selected cellular processes this does not necessarily lead to an immediate increase in wasting disease susceptibility. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Porites white patch syndrome: associated viruses and disease physiology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lawrence, S. A.; Davy, J. E.; Wilson, W. H.; Hoegh-Guldberg, O.; Davy, S. K.

2015-03-01

In recent decades, coral reefs worldwide have undergone significant changes in response to various environmental and anthropogenic impacts. Among the numerous causes of reef degradation, coral disease is one factor that is to a large extent still poorly understood. Here, we characterize the physiology of white patch syndrome (WPS), a disease affecting poritid corals on the Great Barrier Reef. WPS manifests as small, generally discrete patches of tissue discolouration. Physiological analysis revealed that chlorophyll a content was significantly lower in lesions than in healthy tissues, while host protein content remained constant, suggesting that host tissue is not affected by WPS. This was confirmed by transmission electron microscope (TEM) examination, which showed intact host tissue within lesions. TEM also revealed that Symbiodinium cells are lost from the host gastrodermis with no apparent harm caused to the surrounding host tissue. Also present in the electron micrographs were numerous virus-like particles (VLPs), in both coral and Symbiodinium cells. Small (<50 nm diameter) icosahedral VLPs were significantly more abundant in coral tissue taken from diseased colonies, and there was an apparent, but not statistically significant, increase in abundance of filamentous VLPs in Symbiodinium cells from diseased colonies. There was no apparent increase in prokaryotic or eukaryotic microbial abundance in diseased colonies. Taken together, these results suggest that viruses infecting the coral and/or its resident Symbiodinium cells may be the causative agents of WPS.

[Skin cancer as occupational disease].

PubMed

Bauer, A

2016-11-01

The incidence of epithelial skin neoplasms, such as squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma is significantly increasing worldwide. Leisure time solar UV exposure is causative in the overwhelming majority of cases in the general population; however, occupational exposure is responsible for a certain percentage of cases. Employees with a relevant exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soot, raw paraffin, coal tar, anthracene, pitch or similar substances, to sunlight in outdoor occupations as well as to arsenic and ionizing radiation have a significantly increased risk to develop occupational skin cancer compared to the general population. In the official occupational disease list in the appendix of the German by-law on occupational diseases, the following occupational diseases concerning skin cancer are listed: BK 5102 "skin cancer and carcinoma in situ caused by soot, raw paraffin, coal tar, anthracene, pitch or similar substances" (e.g. various solid paraffins, asphalt and mazut as well as mineral oils, grease, cylinder and drilling oils), BK 5103 "squamous cell carcinoma or multiple actinic keratosis caused by natural UV radiation", BK 1108 "diseases caused by arsenic and its compounds" and BK 2402 "diseases caused by ionizing radiation". For further occupational exposure to carcinogenic substances and potential occupationally acquired skin tumors, no official lists are currently available. These cancers might be considered under a special opt out paragraph in the German Social Law (§ 9 para 2 SGB VII). Tumors in scars after occupational skin trauma or occupational burns are compensated as consequences of work accidents. The current official list of occupational skin cancers and new developments for expert opinions are described in this article.

Risk and Protective Factors for Cause-Specific Mortality After Spinal Cord Injury.

PubMed

Krause, James S; Cao, Yue; DeVivo, Michael J; DiPiro, Nicole D

2016-10-01

To investigate the association of multiple sets of risk and protective factors (biographic and injury, socioeconomic, health) with cause-specific mortality after spinal cord injury (SCI). Retrospective analysis of a prospectively created cohort. Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems facilities. Adults (N=8157) with traumatic SCI who were enrolled in a model systems facility after 1973 and received follow-up evaluation that included all study covariates (between November 1, 1995 and October 31, 2006). Not applicable. All-cause mortality was determined using the Social Security Death Index as of January 1, 2014. Causes of death were obtained from the National Death Index and classified as infective and parasitic diseases, neoplasms, respiratory system diseases, heart and blood vessel diseases, external causes, and other causes. Competing risk analysis, with time-dependent covariates, was performed with hazard ratios (HRs) for each cause of death. The HRs for injury severity indicators were highest for deaths due to respiratory system diseases (highest HR for injury level C1-4, 4.84) and infective and parasitic diseases (highest HR for American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade A, 5.70). In contrast, injury level and American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade were relatively unrelated to death due to neoplasms and external causes. Of the socioeconomic indicators, education and income were significantly predictive of a number of causes of death. Pressure ulcers were the only 1 of 4 secondary health condition indicators consistently related to cause of death. Injury severity was related to mortality due to infective disease and respiratory complications, suggesting that those with the most severe SCI should be targeted for prevention of these causes. Socioeconomic and health factors were more broadly related to a number of causes of death. Intervention strategies that enhance socioeconomic status and health may also result in reduced mortality due to multiple causes. Copyright © 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased short- and long-term mortality in 8146 hospitalised peptic ulcer patients.

PubMed

Malmi, H; Kautiainen, H; Virta, L J; Färkkilä, M A

2016-08-01

Incidence and complications of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) have declined, but mortality from peptic ulcer bleeding has remained unchanged. The few recent studies on mortality associated with both uncomplicated and complicated patients with peptic ulcer disease provide contradictory results. To evaluate short- and long-term mortality, and the main causes of death in peptic ulcer disease. In this retrospective epidemiologic cohort study, register data on 8146 adult patients hospitalised with peptic ulcer disease during 2000-2008 were collected in the capital region of Finland. All were followed in the National Cause of Death Register until the end of 2009. The data were linked with the nationwide Drug Purchase Register of the Finnish Social Insurance Institution. Mean follow-up time was 4.9 years. Overall mortality was substantially increased, standardised mortality ratio 2.53 (95% CI: 2.44-2.63); 3.7% died within 30 days, and 11.8% within 1 year. At 6 months, the survival of patients with perforated or bleeding ulcer was lower compared to those with uncomplicated ulcer; hazard ratios were 2.06 (1.68-2.04) and 1.32 (1.11-1.58), respectively. For perforated duodenal ulcers, both the short- and long-term survival was significantly impaired in women. The main causes of mortality at 1 year were malignancies and cardiovascular diseases. Previous use of statins was associated with significant reduction in all-cause mortality. One-year mortality in patients hospitalised with peptic ulcer disease remained high with no change. This peptic ulcer disease cohort had a clearly decreased survival rate up to 10 years, especially among women with a perforated duodenal ulcer, most likely explained by poorer survival due to underlying comorbidity. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Knowledge of cardiovascular disease in Turkish undergraduate nursing students.

PubMed

Badir, Aysel; Tekkas, Kader; Topcu, Serpil

2015-10-01

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death worldwide. However, there is not enough data exploring student nurses' understanding, knowledge, and awareness of cardiovascular disease. To investigate knowledge of cardiovascular disease and its risk factors among undergraduate nursing students, with an emphasis on understanding of cardiovascular disease as the primary cause of mortality and morbidity, both in Turkey and worldwide. This cross-sectional survey assessed 1138 nursing students enrolled in nursing schools in Istanbul, Turkey. Data were collected using the Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Knowledge Level (CARRF-KL) scale and questions from the Individual Characteristics Form about students' gender, age, level of education, and family cardiovascular health history, as well as smoking and exercise habits. Respondents demonstrated a high level of knowledge about cardiovascular disease, with years of education (p < 0.001), gender (p < 0.001), and high school type (p < 0.05) all significantly associated with CARRF-KL scores. However, more than half of the students were not aware that cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of mortality and morbidity in Turkey and worldwide. The majority of the respondents' body mass index (87%) and waist circumference values (females: 90.3%, males: 94.7%) were in the normal range and most were non-smokers (83.7%). However, more than half of the students did not exercise regularly and had inadequate dietary habits. Although students were knowledgeable about cardiovascular disease and associated risk factors, there were significant gaps in their knowledge; these should be addressed through improved nursing curricula. While students were generally healthy, they could improve their practice of health-promoting behaviors. © The European Society of Cardiology 2014.

Updates on chikungunya epidemiology, clinical disease, and diagnostics.

PubMed

Sam, I-Ching; Kümmerer, Beate M; Chan, Yoke-Fun; Roques, Pierre; Drosten, Christian; AbuBakar, Sazaly

2015-04-01

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an Aedes-borne alphavirus, historically found in Africa and Asia, where it caused sporadic outbreaks. In 2004, CHIKV reemerged in East Africa and spread globally to cause epidemics, including, for the first time, autochthonous transmission in Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania. The epidemic strains were of the East/Central/South African genotype. Strains of the Asian genotype of CHIKV continued to cause outbreaks in Asia and spread to Oceania and, in 2013, to the Americas. Acute disease, mainly comprising fever, rash, and arthralgia, was previously regarded as self-limiting; however, there is growing evidence of severe but rare manifestations, such as neurological disease. Furthermore, CHIKV appears to cause a significant burden of long-term morbidity due to persistent arthralgia. Diagnostic assays have advanced greatly in recent years, although there remains a need for simple, accurate, and affordable tests for the developing countries where CHIKV is most prevalent. This review focuses on recent important work on the epidemiology, clinical disease and diagnostics of CHIKV.

Severe Legionnaire's disease caused by Legionella longbeachae in a long-term renal transplant patient: the importance of safe living strategies after transplantation.

PubMed

Wright, A J; Humar, A; Gourishankar, S; Bernard, K; Kumar, D

2012-08-01

Legionella species are intracellular gram-negative bacilli that require specific culture media for growth. Transplant recipients with impaired cellular immunity are at particular risk for infection with this pathogen. Most human disease is caused by Legionella pneumophila; disease caused by non-L. pneumophila species is reported mainly in immunosuppressed patients with the exception of Legionella longbeachae. L. longbeachae is a common cause of Legionnaires' disease in Australia and New Zealand, and is associated with exposure to potting soil. We report the case of a patient, 26 years post kidney transplant, who presented with severe and rapidly progressive respiratory illness. L. longbeachae serogroup 1 was isolated from respiratory cultures. Further investigation revealed that she had significant soil exposure before the onset of illness. We highlight the importance of following safe living strategies to prevent exposure-related illness even in long-term transplant recipients. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

GENOMIC IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL RISK FACTORS DURING ACETAMINOPHEN-INDUCED LIVER DISEASE IN SUSCEPTIBLE AND RESISTANT STRAINS OF MICE

EPA Science Inventory

Drug-induced liver disease (DILD) continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality and impair new drug development. Mounting evidence suggests that DILD is a complex, multifactorial disease in which no one factor is likely to be an absolute indicator of susceptibility. As a...

Identification of sero-reactive antigens for the early diagnosis of Johne's disease in cattle

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is the causative agent of Johne’s disease (JD), a chronic intestinal inflammatory disease of cattle and other ruminants. JD has a high herd prevalence rate and is recognized as a serious animal health problem and a cause of significant economic loss ...

Dracunculiasis (Guinea Worm Disease) and the Eradication Initiative

PubMed Central

Cairncross, Sandy; Muller, Ralph; Zagaria, Nevio

2002-01-01

Dracunculiasis, also known as guinea worm disease, is caused by the large female of the nematode Dracunculus medinensis, which emerges painfully and slowly from the skin, usually on the lower limbs. The disease can infect animals, and sustainable animal cycles occur in North America and Central Asia but do not act as reservoirs of human infection. The disease is endemic across the Sahel belt of Africa from Mauritania to Ethiopia, having been eliminated from Asia and some African countries. It has a significant socioeconomic impact because of the temporary disability that it causes. Dracunculiasis is exclusively caught from drinking water, usually from ponds. A campaign to eradicate the disease was launched in the 1980s and has made significant progress. The strategy of the campaign is discussed, including water supply, health education, case management, and vector control. Current issues including the integration of the campaign into primary health care and the mapping of cases by using geographic information systems are also considered. Finally, some lessons for other disease control and eradication programs are outlined. PMID:11932231

Awareness of Cardiovascular Disease and Preventive Behaviors Among Overweight Immigrant Latinas.

PubMed

Koniak-Griffin, Deborah; Brecht, Mary-Lynn

2015-01-01

Low-income Latina women face increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to high rates of obesity, diabetes, and other comorbidities. Language barriers, lack of health insurance, and lack of access to preventive health messages may further increase their risk. The purpose of this study was to evaluate knowledge about CVD of overweight, immigrant Latinas who spoke little or no English and participated in an educational intervention. Ninety participants completed a CVD knowledge questionnaire before and after 8 educational sessions based upon Su Corazón, Su Vida. The curriculum focused on understanding risk factors of CVD and prevention through heart-healthy diets, physical activity, and weight control. The questionnaire evaluated general CVD knowledge (eg, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women) and prevention measures (eg, physical activity can lower a woman's risk for getting heart disease). Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations and correlational statistics. Participants were middle-aged, overweight Latinas, predominantly of Mexican descent, with low education and acculturation. Baseline knowledge that heart disease is the leading cause of death in women was low. A comparison of preintervention and postintervention scores on the questionnaire showed a significant change (P < 0.001), with means of 7.9 and 9.4, respectively. Scores for individual items correctly answered significantly improved for 9 of the 11 items, including questions about portion control to lose weight, physical activity, overweight, and risk for heart disease. Most participants did not recognize that men and women may experience different symptoms of a heart attack. Knowledge was not significantly related to background characteristics, body mass index, or lifestyle behaviors. Despite campaigns to increase CVD awareness, many Spanish-speaking, immigrant Latinas remain unaware that heart disease is the leading cause of death. Educational interventions may significantly improve their CVD knowledge; nonetheless, continued cardiovascular health promotion efforts are needed for this population.

Effectiveness of Natural Antifungal Compounds in Controlling Infection by Grapevine Trunk Disease Pathogens through Pruning Wounds

PubMed Central

Cobos, Rebeca; Mateos, Rosa María; Álvarez-Pérez, José Manuel; Olego, Miguel Angel; Sevillano, Silvia; González-García, Sandra; Garzón-Jimeno, Enrique

2015-01-01

Grapevine trunk fungal pathogens, such as Diplodia seriata and Phaeomoniella chlamydospora, can infect plants through pruning wounds. They cause grapevine trunk diseases and are involved in grapevine decline. Accordingly, the protection of pruning wounds is crucial for the management of grapevine trunk diseases. The efficacy of different natural antifungals in inhibiting the growth of several fungi causing grapevine trunk diseases was evaluated in vitro. The fungi showing greater in vitro efficacy were tested on autoclaved grape wood assays against D. seriata and P. chlamydospora. Based on results from these assays, chitosan oligosaccharide, vanillin, and garlic extract were selected for further evaluation on pruning wounds inoculated with D. seriata and P. chlamydospora in field trials. A significant decrease in plant mortality was observed after 2 years of growth in the plants treated with the different natural antifungals compared to the mortality rate observed in infected plants that were not treated with antifungals. Also, the infection rate for the inoculated pathogens was significantly reduced in plants treated with the selected natural antifungals. Therefore, natural antifungals represent a promising alternative for disease control and could provide significant economic benefits for the grape-growing industry. PMID:26162882

Lack of sensitivity of measurements of Vd/Vt at rest and during exercise in detection of hemodynamically significant pulmonary vascular abnormalities in collagen vascular disease.

PubMed

Mohsenifar, Z; Tashkin, D P; Levy, S E; Bjerke, R D; Clements, P J; Furst, D

1981-05-01

Wasted ventilation fraction (Vd/Vt) normally declines substantially during exercise in persons without lung disease. Failure of Vd/Vt to decrease during exercise has been reported to be one of the earliest abnormalities in patients with dyspnea caused by pulmonary vaso-occlusive disease, suggesting that measurement of Vd/Vt at rest and during exercise are useful in the diagnosis of pulmonary vascular disorders. We studied pulmonary hemodynamic and Vd/Vt responses to exercise in 11 patients in the supine position with suspected pulmonary vascular involvement caused by progressive systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or recurrent pulmonary emboli, 10 of whom had dyspnea at rest and/or on exertion. In contrast to previous reports of no change or an increase in Vd/Vt during exercise in patients with pulmonary vascular disease, we found Vd/Vt to decrease significantly during exercise in 8 of 9 patients in whom mean pulmonary artery pressures were abnormally elevated at rest and/or during exercise. Our findings suggest that normal responses of Vd/Vt to exercise do not exclude hemodynamically significant pulmonary vaso-occlusive disease.

Cancer in Machado-Joseph disease patients-low frequency as a cause of death.

PubMed

Souza, Gabriele Nunes; Kersting, Nathália; Gonçalves, Thomaz Abramsson; Pacheco, Daphne Louise Oliveira; Saraiva-Pereira, Maria-Luiza; Camey, Suzi Alves; Saute, Jonas Alex Morales; Jardim, Laura Bannach

2017-04-01

Since polyglutamine diseases have been related to a reduced risk of cancer, we aimed to study the 15 years cumulative incidence of cancer (CIC) (arm 1) and the proportion of cancer as a cause of death (arm 2) in symptomatic carriers of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3/Machado-Joseph disease (SCA3/MJD). SCA3/MJD and control individuals from our state were invited to participate. A structured interview was performed. CIC as published by the Brazilian National Institute of Cancer, was used as populational control. Causes of death were obtained from the Public Information System on Mortality. We interviewed 154 SCA3/MJD patients and 80 unrelated controls: CIC was 7/154 (4.5%) and 5/80 (6.3%), respectively. The interim analysis for futility showed that the number of individuals required to detect a significant difference between groups (1938) would be three times larger than the existing local SCA3/MJD population (625), for an absolute risk reduction of 1.8%. Then this study arm was discontinued due to lack of power. In the same period, cancer was a cause of death in 9/101 (8.9%) SCA3/MJD and in 52/202 (26.2%) controls, with an absolute reduction risk of 17.3% (OR 0.27, 95%CI 0.13 to 0.58, p = 0.01). A significant reduction of cancer as cause of death was observed in SCA3/MJD, suggesting a common effect to all polyglutamine diseases. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Causes and Disparities in Death Rates Among Urban American Indian and Alaska Native Populations, 1999–2009

PubMed Central

Espey, David K.; Groom, Amy V.; Phillips, Leslie E.; Haverkamp, Donald S.; Stanley, Sandte L.

2016-01-01

Objectives. To characterize the leading causes of death for the urban American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) population and compare with urban White and rural AI/AN populations. Methods. We linked Indian Health Service patient registration records with the National Death Index to reduce racial misclassification in death certificate data. We calculated age-adjusted urban AI/AN death rates for the period 1999–2009 and compared those with corresponding urban White and rural AI/AN death rates. Results. The top-5 leading causes of death among urban AI/AN persons were heart disease, cancer, unintentional injury, diabetes, and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. Compared with urban White persons, urban AI/AN persons experienced significantly higher death rates for all top-5 leading causes. The largest disparities were for diabetes and chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. In general, urban and rural AI/AN persons had the same leading causes of death, although urban AI/AN persons had lower death rates for most conditions. Conclusions. Urban AI/AN persons experience significant disparities in death rates compared with their White counterparts. Public health and clinical interventions should target urban AI/AN persons to address behaviors and conditions contributing to health disparities. PMID:26890168

Effect of medicinal plants extracts on the incidence of mosaic disease caused by cucumber mosaic virus and growth of chili

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamidson, H.; Damiri, N.; Angraini, E.

2018-01-01

This research was conducted to study the effect of the application of several extracts of medicinal plants on the incidence of mosaic disease caused by Cucumber Mosaic Virus infection on the chili (Capsicum annuum L.) plantation. A Randomized Block Design with eight treatments including control was used throughout the experiment. Treatments consisted of Azadiracta indica (A), Piper bitle (B), Cymbopogon citrates (C), Curcuma domestica (D), Averroa bilimbi (E), Datura stramonium (F), Annona Muricata (G) and control (H). Each treatment consist of three replications. The parameters observed were the incidence of mosaic attack due to CMV, disease severity, plant height, wet and dry weight and production (number of fruits and the weight of total fruits) each plant. Results showed that the application of medicinal plant extracts reduced the disease severity due to CMV. Extracts of Annona muricata and Datura stramonium were most effective in suppressing disease severity caused by the virus as they significantly different from control and from a number of treatment. The plants medicinal extracts were found to have increased the plant height and total weight of the plant, fruit amount and fruit weight. Extracts of Curcuma domestica, Piper bitle and Cymbopogon citrates were the third highest in fruit amount and weight and significantly different from the control.

Mood and anxiety disorders in women with treated hyperthyroidism and ophthalmopathy caused by Graves' disease.

PubMed

Bunevicius, Robertas; Velickiene, Dzilda; Prange, Arthur J

2005-01-01

To evaluate the prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders in women with treated hyperthyroidism caused by Graves' disease and to compare them with the prevalence of such findings in women without past or present thyroid disease. Thirty inpatient women with treated hyperthyroidism and ophthalmopathy caused by Graves' disease and 45 women hospitalized for treatment of gynecologic disorders such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, benign tumors or infertility were evaluated for the prevalence of mood and anxiety diagnoses using a standard Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview and for mood and anxiety ratings using the Profile of Mood States (POMS). At the time of assessment, it was discovered that 14 of 30 women with treated hyperthyroidism caused by Graves' disease were still hyperthyroid, while 16 women were euthyroid. Significantly greater prevalence of social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depression and total mood and anxiety disorders, as well as higher symptom scores on the POMS, was found in hyperthyroid women with Graves' disease in comparison with the control group. A prevalence of total anxiety disorder, as well as history of mania or hypomania and lifetime bipolar disorder, but not lifetime unipolar depression, was more frequent in both the euthyroid and the hyperthyroid subgroups of study women in comparison with the control group. These results confirm a high prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders in women with treated hyperthyroidism and ophthalmopathy caused by Graves' disease. Hyperthyroidism plays a major role in psychiatric morbidity in Graves' disease.

Celiac disease causing severe osteomalacia: an association still present in Morocco!

PubMed

Tahiri, Latifa; Azzouzi, Hamida; Squalli, Ghita; Abourazzak, Fatimazahra; Harzy, Taoufik

2014-01-01

Celiac disease (CD), a malabsorption syndrome caused by hypersensitivity to gliadin fraction of gluten. CD can manifest with classic symptoms; however, significant myopathy and multiple fractures are rarely the predominant presentation of untreated celiac disease. Osteomalacia complicating celiac disease had become more and more rare. We describe here a case of osteomalacia secondary to a longstanding untreated celiac disease. This patient complained about progressive bone and muscular pain, weakness, fractures and skeletal deformities. Radiological and laboratory findings were all in favor of severe osteomalacia. Improvement of patient's weakness and laboratory abnormalities was obvious after treatment with gluten free diet, vitamin D, calcium and iron. This case affirms that chronic untreated celiac disease, can lead to an important bone loss and irreversible complications like skeletal deformities.

Celiac disease causing severe osteomalacia: an association still present in Morocco!

PubMed Central

Tahiri, Latifa; Azzouzi, Hamida; Squalli, Ghita; Abourazzak, Fatimazahra; Harzy, Taoufik

2014-01-01

Celiac disease (CD), a malabsorption syndrome caused by hypersensitivity to gliadin fraction of gluten. CD can manifest with classic symptoms; however, significant myopathy and multiple fractures are rarely the predominant presentation of untreated celiac disease. Osteomalacia complicating celiac disease had become more and more rare. We describe here a case of osteomalacia secondary to a longstanding untreated celiac disease. This patient complained about progressive bone and muscular pain, weakness, fractures and skeletal deformities. Radiological and laboratory findings were all in favor of severe osteomalacia. Improvement of patient's weakness and laboratory abnormalities was obvious after treatment with gluten free diet, vitamin D, calcium and iron. This case affirms that chronic untreated celiac disease, can lead to an important bone loss and irreversible complications like skeletal deformities. PMID:25667705

Let There Be Light: Gene and Cell Therapy for Blindness.

PubMed

Dalkara, Deniz; Goureau, Olivier; Marazova, Katia; Sahel, José-Alain

2016-02-01

Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Retinal cell death is the main cause of vision loss in genetic disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and Leber congenital amaurosis, as well as in complex age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. For these blinding conditions, gene and cell therapy approaches offer therapeutic intervention at various disease stages. The present review outlines advances in therapies for retinal degenerative disease, focusing on the progress and challenges in the development and clinical translation of gene and cell therapies. A significant body of preclinical evidence and initial clinical results pave the way for further development of these cutting edge treatments for patients with retinal degenerative disorders.

Let There Be Light: Gene and Cell Therapy for Blindness

PubMed Central

Dalkara, Deniz; Goureau, Olivier; Marazova, Katia; Sahel, José-Alain

2016-01-01

Retinal degenerative diseases are a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Retinal cell death is the main cause of vision loss in genetic disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and Leber congenital amaurosis, as well as in complex age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. For these blinding conditions, gene and cell therapy approaches offer therapeutic intervention at various disease stages. The present review outlines advances in therapies for retinal degenerative disease, focusing on the progress and challenges in the development and clinical translation of gene and cell therapies. A significant body of preclinical evidence and initial clinical results pave the way for further development of these cutting edge treatments for patients with retinal degenerative disorders. PMID:26751519

A survey of swainsonine content in Swainsona species

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Swainsonine, an indolizidine alkaloid with significant physiological activity, is an a-mannosidase and mannosidase II inhibitor that causes lysosomal storage disease and alters glycoprotein processing. Swainsonine is found in a number of plant species worldwide, and causes severe toxicosis in lives...

Evolution of Avian Tumor Viruses

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Virus-induced neoplastic diseases of poultry, namely Marek’s disease (MD), induced by a herpesvirus, and the avian leukosis and reticuloendotheliosis induced by retroviruses, can cause significant economic losses from tumor mortality as well as poor performance. Successful control of MD is and has ...

Black pod: diverse pathogens with a global impact on cocoa yield.

PubMed

Guest, David

2007-12-01

ABSTRACT Pathogens of the Straminipile genus Phytophthora cause significant disease losses to global cocoa production. P. megakarya causes significant pod rot and losses due to canker in West Africa, whereas P. capsici and P. citrophthora cause pod rots in Central and South America. The global and highly damaging P. palmivora attacks all parts of the cocoa tree at all stages of the growing cycle. This pathogen causes 20 to 30% pod losses through black pod rot, and kills up to 10% of trees annually through stem cankers. P. palmivora has a complex disease cycle involving several sources of primary inoculum and several modes of dissemination of secondary inoculum. This results in explosive epidemics during favorable environmental conditions. The spread of regional pathogens must be prevented by effective quarantine barriers. Resistance to all these Phytophthora species is typically low in commercial cocoa genotypes. Disease losses can be reduced through integrated management practices that include pruning and shade management, leaf mulching, regular and complete harvesting, sanitation and pod case disposal, appropriate fertilizer application and targeted fungicide use. Packaging these options to improve uptake by smallholders presents a major challenge for the industry.

Recent Advances in Understanding Enteric Pathogenic Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Croxen, Matthew A.; Law, Robyn J.; Scholz, Roland; Keeney, Kristie M.; Wlodarska, Marta

2013-01-01

SUMMARY Although Escherichia coli can be an innocuous resident of the gastrointestinal tract, it also has the pathogenic capacity to cause significant diarrheal and extraintestinal diseases. Pathogenic variants of E. coli (pathovars or pathotypes) cause much morbidity and mortality worldwide. Consequently, pathogenic E. coli is widely studied in humans, animals, food, and the environment. While there are many common features that these pathotypes employ to colonize the intestinal mucosa and cause disease, the course, onset, and complications vary significantly. Outbreaks are common in developed and developing countries, and they sometimes have fatal consequences. Many of these pathotypes are a major public health concern as they have low infectious doses and are transmitted through ubiquitous mediums, including food and water. The seriousness of pathogenic E. coli is exemplified by dedicated national and international surveillance programs that monitor and track outbreaks; unfortunately, this surveillance is often lacking in developing countries. While not all pathotypes carry the same public health profile, they all carry an enormous potential to cause disease and continue to present challenges to human health. This comprehensive review highlights recent advances in our understanding of the intestinal pathotypes of E. coli. PMID:24092857

Recent advances in bulbar syndromes: genetic causes and disease mechanisms.

PubMed

Manole, Andreea; Fratta, Pietro; Houlden, Henry

2014-10-01

With advances in next-generation gene sequencing, progress in deep phenotyping and a greater understanding of the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease, our knowledge of the progressive bulbar syndromes has significantly increased in recent years. This group of heterogeneous conditions, in which the primary disorder is focused around degeneration of the lower cranial nerves, can occur in children or adults and form a spectrum of severity, based around the common feature of bulbar dysfunction. Early genetic diagnosis may allow treatment in some bulbar syndromes. Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere and Fazio-Londe syndromes are the most recent childhood forms of progressive bulbar palsy to be genetically defined. The clinical phenotype of this group of childhood disorders was first reported over 120 years ago. Recently, it was demonstrated that in a third of these patients Brown-Vialetto-Van Laere is caused by mutations in the SLC52A2 and SLC52A3 genes, both of which encode riboflavin transporters. Importantly, supplementation of riboflavin can lead to significant clinical improvement if started early in the disease process. Here, we outline the clinical features, management and an update on the disease mechanisms and genetic causes of the progressive bulbar syndromes.

Cacao diseases: a global perspective from an industry point of view.

PubMed

Hebbar, Prakash K

2007-12-01

ABSTRACT Diseases of cacao, Theobroma cacao, account for losses of more than 30% of the potential crop. These losses have caused a steady decline in production and a reduction in bean quality in almost all the cacao-producing areas in the world, especially in small-holder farms in Latin America and West Africa. The most significant diseases are witches' broom, caused by Moniliophthora perniciosa, which occurs mainly in South America; frosty pod rot, caused by M. roreri, which occurs mainly in Central and northern South America; and black pod disease, caused by several species of Phytophthora, which are distributed throughout the tropics. In view of the threat that these diseases pose to the sustainability of the cacao crop, Mars Inc. and their industry partners have funded collaborative research involving cacao research institutes and governmental and nongovernmental agencies. The objective of this global initiative is to develop short- to medium-term, low-cost, environmentally friendly disease-management strategies until disease tolerant varieties are widely available. These include good farming practices, biological control and the rational or minimal use of chemicals that could be used for integrated pest management (IPM). Farmer field schools are used to get these technologies to growers. This paper describes some of the key collaborative partners and projects that are underway in South America and West Africa.

Low-dose aspirin for prevention of cardiovascular disease in patients on hemodialysis: A 5-y prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Liu, Jun; Pan, Yu; Chen, Lei; Qiao, Qing Yan; Wang, Jing; Pan, Li Hua; Gu, Yan Hong; Gu, Hui Fang; Fu, Shun Kun; Jin, Hui Min

2016-10-01

Introduction Aspirin is an effective antiplatelet drug for preventing cardiovascular events in high-risk subjects. However, for patients with chronic kidney disease and undergoing hemodialysis (HD), its preventive efficacy remains controversial. The present study aimed to determine whether aspirin therapy reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality in patients on HD. Methods We conducted a 5-y prospective cohort study involving patients on HD. Major exposure variables included prescription of aspirin (100 mg/d) and no aspirin (nonaspirin). The primary outcomes included all-cause death, cardiovascular events, hemorrhage, and ischemic stroke. The secondary outcome included bleeding events defined by the requirement of hospitalization. Findings In this study, 406 patients on regular HD were involved during a 5-y follow-up. Among these, 152 and 254 propensity-matched patients were enrolled in the aspirin and nonaspirin cohort, respectively. The cumulative survival rate was not significantly higher in the aspirin than in the nonaspirin users (log rank χ 2  = 1.080, P = 0.299). Aspirin use was not significantly associated with reduced all-cause mortality, fatal and nonfatal congestive heart failure, as well as acute myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. The risk of fatal cerebral hemorrhage was not significantly increased in the aspirin users (HR = 1.795, 95% CI 0.666-4.841, P = 0.174). After adjustment for other confounders, aspirin use was also not associated with decreased risk of all-cause mortality and CVD. Discussion The present prospective cohort study suggests that low-dose aspirin use is not associated with a significant decrease in the risks of all-cause mortality, CVD, and stroke in population undergoing HD (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02261025). © 2016 International Society for Hemodialysis.

Description and burden of travel-related cases caused by enteropathogens reported in a Canadian community.

PubMed

Ravel, André; Nesbitt, Andrea; Marshall, Barbara; Sittler, Nancy; Pollari, Frank

2011-01-01

Risk of infections by enteropathogens among individuals traveling outside their country of residence is considered important. Such travel-related cases (TRC) have been poorly estimated and described in Canada. Data from an enhanced, passive surveillance system of diseases caused by enteropathogens within a Canadian community from June 2005 to May 2009 were used to describe TRC in terms of disease (pathogen, symptoms, hospitalization, duration, and timing of sickness relative to return); demographics (age and gender); and travel (destination, length, and accommodation); and to compare them with non-TRC. Among 1,773 reported cases, 446 (25%) were classified as TRC with 9% of them being new immigrants. The main TRC diseases were campylobacteriosis, salmonellosis, and giardiasis. Disease onset occurred before return in 42% of TRC. Main destinations were Latin America/Caribbean and Asia. No differences by month and year were observed for onset, departure, and return dates. In addition to new immigrants, three subgroups of TRC based on travel destination, length of travel, type of accommodation, and age were identified and some diseases were more frequently observed in these subgroups. Generally, TRC did not differ from domestic cases in terms of age, gender, symptoms, hospitalization, and disease duration. Campylobacter coli and Salmonella enteritidis were significantly more frequent among TRC. TRC of diseases caused by enteropathogens that are reportable in Canada represent a significant proportion of the burden of the total diseases. Subgroups of TRC exist and are associated with certain diseases. These results help inform the assessment of the actual risk related to travel for each subgroup of travelers and quantify the attribution of traveling abroad to the overall burden of these gastrointestinal diseases. © 2010 International Society of Travel Medicine.

Daytime Napping and the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and All-Cause Mortality: A Prospective Study and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Yamada, Tomohide; Hara, Kazuo; Shojima, Nobuhiro; Yamauchi, Toshimasa; Kadowaki, Takashi

2015-12-01

To summarize evidence about the association between daytime napping and the risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality, and to quantify the potential dose-response relation. Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Electronic databases were searched for articles published up to December 2014 using the terms nap, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. We selected well-adjusted prospective cohort studies reporting risk estimates for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality related to napping. Eleven prospective cohort studies were identified with 151,588 participants (1,625,012 person-years) and a mean follow-up period of 11 years (60% women, 5,276 cardiovascular events, and 18,966 all-cause deaths). Pooled analysis showed that a long daytime nap (≥ 60 min/day) was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (rate ratio [RR]: 1.82 [1.22-2.71], P = 0.003, I(2) = 37%) compared with not napping. All-cause mortality was associated with napping for ≥ 60 min/day (RR: 1.27 [1.11-1.45], P < 0.001, I(2) = 0%) compared with not napping. In contrast, napping for < 60 min/day was not associated with cardiovascular disease (P = 0.98) or all-cause mortality (P = 0.08). Meta-analysis demonstrated a significant J-curve dose-response relation between nap time and cardiovascular disease (P for nonlinearity = 0.01). The RR initially decreased from 0 to 30 min/day. Then it increased slightly until about 45 min/day, followed by a sharp increase at longer nap times. There was also a positive linear relation between nap time and all-cause mortality (P for non-linearity = 0.97). Nap time and cardiovascular disease may be associated via a J-curve relation. Further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of a short nap. © 2015 Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC.

Economic inequality caused by feedbacks between poverty and the dynamics of a rare tropical disease: the case of Buruli ulcer in sub-Saharan Africa.

PubMed

Garchitorena, Andrés; Ngonghala, Calistus N; Guegan, Jean-Francois; Texier, Gaëtan; Bellanger, Martine; Bonds, Matthew; Roche, Benjamin

2015-11-07

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) have received increasing attention in recent years by the global heath community, as they cumulatively constitute substantial burdens of disease as well as barriers for economic development. A number of common tropical diseases such as malaria, hookworm or schistosomiasis have well-documented economic impacts. However, much less is known about the population-level impacts of diseases that are rare but associated with high disability burden, which represent a great number of tropical diseases. Using an individual-based model of Buruli ulcer (BU), we demonstrate that, through feedbacks between health and economic status, such NTDs can have a significant impact on the economic structure of human populations even at low incidence levels. While average wealth is only marginally affected by BU, the economic conditions of certain subpopulations are impacted sufficiently to create changes in measurable population-level inequality. A reduction of the disability burden caused by BU can thus maximize the economic growth of the poorest subpopulations and reduce significantly the economic inequalities introduced by the disease in endemic regions. © 2015 The Author(s).

Infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus: Chapter 2

USGS Publications Warehouse

Leong, Jo-Ann; Kurath, Gael

2017-01-01

Infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) is a Rhabdovirus that causes significant disease in Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.), Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), and rainbow and steelhead trout (O. mykiss). IHNV causes necrosis of the haematopoietic tissues, and consequently it was named infectious haematopoietic necrosis. This virus is waterborne and may transmit horizontally and vertically through virus associated with seminal and ovarian fluids. The clinical signs of disease and diagnosis; pathology; pathophysiology; and control strategies against IHNV are discussed.

Daytime Napping and the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and All-Cause Mortality: A Prospective Study and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Yamada, Tomohide; Hara, Kazuo; Shojima, Nobuhiro; Yamauchi, Toshimasa; Kadowaki, Takashi

2015-01-01

Study Objectives: To summarize evidence about the association between daytime napping and the risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality, and to quantify the potential dose-response relation. Design: Meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Methods and Results: Electronic databases were searched for articles published up to December 2014 using the terms nap, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. We selected well-adjusted prospective cohort studies reporting risk estimates for cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality related to napping. Eleven prospective cohort studies were identified with 151,588 participants (1,625,012 person-years) and a mean follow-up period of 11 years (60% women, 5,276 cardiovascular events, and 18,966 all-cause deaths). Pooled analysis showed that a long daytime nap (≥ 60 min/day) was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (rate ratio [RR]: 1.82 [1.22–2.71], P = 0.003, I2 = 37%) compared with not napping. All-cause mortality was associated with napping for ≥ 60 min/day (RR: 1.27 [1.11–1.45], P < 0.001, I2 = 0%) compared with not napping. In contrast, napping for < 60 min/day was not associated with cardiovascular disease (P = 0.98) or all-cause mortality (P = 0.08). Meta-analysis demonstrated a significant J-curve dose-response relation between nap time and cardiovascular disease (P for nonlinearity = 0.01). The RR initially decreased from 0 to 30 min/day. Then it increased slightly until about 45 min/day, followed by a sharp increase at longer nap times. There was also a positive linear relation between nap time and all-cause mortality (P for non-linearity = 0.97). Conclusions: Nap time and cardiovascular disease may be associated via a J-curve relation. Further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of a short nap. Citation: Yamada T, Hara K, Shojima N, Yamauchi T, Kadowaki T. Daytime napping and the risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality: a prospective study and dose-response meta-analysis. SLEEP 2015;38(12):1945–1953. PMID:26158892

Comparing mortality between coronary artery bypass grafting and percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents in elderly with diabetes and multivessel coronary disease.

PubMed

Naito, Ryo; Miyauchi, Katsumi; Konishi, Hirokazu; Tsuboi, Shuta; Ogita, Manabu; Dohi, Tomotaka; Kajimoto, Kan; Kasai, Takatoshi; Tamura, Hiroshi; Okazaki, Shinya; Isoda, Kikuo; Yamamoto, Taira; Amano, Atsushi; Daida, Hiroyuki

2016-09-01

Coronary artery disease is a critical issue that requires physicians to consider appropriate treatment strategies, especially for elderly people who tend to have several comorbidities, including diabetes mellitus (DM) and multivessel disease (MVD). Several studies have been conducted comparing clinical outcomes between percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in patients with DM and MVD. However, elderly people were excluded in those clinical studies. Therefore, there are no comparisons of clinical outcomes between CABG and PCI in elderly patients with DM and MVD. We compared all-cause mortality between PCI with drug-eluting stents (DES) and CABG in elderly patients with DM and MVD. A total of 483 (PCI; n = 256, CABG; n = 227) patients were analyzed. The median follow-up period was 1356 days (interquartile range of 810-1884). The all-cause mortality rate was not significantly different between CABG and PCI with DES groups. The CABG group had more patients with complex coronary lesions such as three-vessel disease or a left main trunk lesion. Older age, hemodialysis, and reduced LVEF were associated with increased long-term all-cause mortality in a multivariable Cox regression analysis. The rate of all-cause mortality was not significantly different between the PCI and CABG groups in elderly patients with DM and MVD in a single-center study.

Pathological Calcification and Ossification in Relation to Leriche and Policard's Theory.

PubMed

Jones, W; Roberts, R E

1933-05-01

(1) Pathology of calcification and ossification.-The Leriche-Policard theories. Hyperaemia of bone causes decalcification. Reduced blood supply causes sclerosis. Diminution of vascularity of fibrous tissue causes calcification. Excess of calcium, adequate blood supply and fibroblasts give rise to bone anywhere. Subperiosteal ossification. "Myositis ossificans."(2) Radiological significance of density of bone shadows.-Decalcification of disuse, of infections, of neoplasms. Traumatic and infective scquestra. Evidence that a fragment of bone is avascular.(3) Hyperaemic decalcification of bone.-Delayed and non-union of fractures. Kummel's disease. Spontaneous hyperaemic dislocation of the atlas. Hyperaemic decalcification and nephrolithiasis.(4) Anaemic sclerosis of bone.-Syphilitic bone disease. Malignant bone disease. Fragility of sclerosed bone-Paget's, Kienboch's, Kohler's and Panner's, Albers-Schönberg's diseases.(5) Pathological calcification.-Calcification of supraspinatus tendon. Calcification of tumours-angioma, haematoma, and thrombosed vessels, lipoma, cysts, etc. Calcification of semilunar cartilages and intervertebral discs.(6) Pathological ossification.-Ossification of tendons. Ossification of semilunar cartilages.

Cholesterol efflux capacity is an independent predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with coronary artery disease: A prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Liu, Chaoqun; Zhang, Yuan; Ding, Ding; Li, Xinrui; Yang, Yunou; Li, Qing; Zheng, Yuanzhu; Wang, Dongliang; Ling, Wenhua

2016-06-01

Although diminished cholesterol efflux capacity is positively related with prevalent coronary artery disease, its prognostic value for incident cardiovascular events remains a topic of debate. This work aims to investigate the association between cholesterol efflux capacity and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. We measured cholesterol efflux capacity at baseline in 1737 patients with coronary artery disease from the Guangdong Coronary Artery Disease Cohort. During 6645 person-years of follow-up, 166 deaths were registered, 122 of which were caused by cardiovascular diseases. After multivariate adjustment for factors related to cardiovascular diseases, the hazard ratios of cholesterol efflux capacity in the fourth quartile compared with those in the bottom quartile were 0.24 (95% confidence intervals 0.13-0.44) for all-cause mortality (P < 0.001), and 0.17 (95% confidence intervals 0.08-0.39) for cardiovascular mortality (P < 0.001). Adding cholesterol efflux capacity to a model containing traditional cardiovascular risk factors significantly increases its discriminatory power and predictive ability for all-cause (area under receiver operating characteristic curve 0.79 versus 0.76, P = 0.001; net reclassification improvement 14.5%, P = 0.001; integrated discrimination improvement 0.016, P < 0.001) and cardiovascular (area under receiver operating characteristic curve 0.81 versus 0.78, P = 0.001; net reclassification improvement 18.4%, P < 0.001; integrated discrimination improvement 0.015, P < 0.001) death, respectively. Cholesterol efflux capacity may serve as an independent measure for predicting all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mapping QTL for spleen size and BCWD resistance in rainbow trout

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic loss in salmonid aquaculture. To elucidate the genetic architecture of BCWD resistance, we made select crosses and assessed fish disease resistance using both Flavobacterium psychrophilum (Fp) injection challenge and a surrogate measur...

Gene expression analysis between planktonic and biofilm states of Flavobacterium columnare

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Flavobacterium columnare, the causative agent of columnaris disease causes substantial mortality worldwide in numerous freshwater finfish species. Due to its global significance and impact on the aquaculture industry continual efforts to better understand basic mechanisms that contribute to disease ...

Development of a waterborne challenge model for Flavobacterium psychrophilum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Flavobacterium psychrophilum is the causative agent of bacterial coldwater disease and can cause significant mortality in salmonid aquaculture. To better evaluate disease prevention or treatment methods for F. psychrophilum in the laboratory, a waterborne challenge model that mimics a natural outbre...

Sickeningly sweet: L-rhamnose stimulates Flavobacterium columnare biofilm formation and virulence

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Flavobacterium columnare, the causative agent of columnaris disease causes substantial mortality worldwide in numerous freshwater finfish species. Due to its global significance and impact on the aquaculture industry continual efforts to better understand basic mechanisms that contribute to disease ...

The carbohydrate L-rhamnose promotes biofilm formation which enhances Flavobacterium columnare virulence

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Flavobacterium columnare, the causative agent of columnaris disease causes substantial mortality worldwide in numerous freshwater finfish species. Due to its global significance and impact on the aquaculture industry, continual efforts to better understand basic mechanisms that contribute to disease...

First report of brown rot on apple fruit caused by Monilinia fructicola in the United States

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Brown rot, caused by Monilinia fructicola (G. Wint.) Honey, is the most devastating disease of stone fruits in North America resulting in significant economic losses. The fungus has been recently reported to cause pre and postharvest brown rot on apple fruit in Germany, Italy, and Serbia. However, M...

Detection by next generation sequencing of a multi-segmented viral genome from sugarcane associated with Ramu stunt disease

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Ramu stunt disease of sugarcane was first reported in Papua New Guinea in the mid 1980's. The disease can reduce sugarcane yields significantly and causes severe stunting and mortality in highly susceptible cultivars. The causal agent of Ramu stunt has been investigated but its characterization has ...

Genetic analysis of rice blast disease resistance genes using USDA rice mini-core and a mapping population

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Rice blast disease caused by the fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae (M. oryzae) is one of the most destructive diseases of cultivated rice, resulting in significant yield loss each year all over the world. Developing and utilizing blast resistant rice varieties is the most economical and effective m...

Trends in Infectious Disease Mortality, South Korea, 1983–2015

PubMed Central

Choe, Young June; Choe, Seung-Ah

2018-01-01

We used national statistics from 1983–2015 to evaluate trends in mortality caused by infectious diseases in South Korea. Age-standardized mortality from infectious disease decreased from 43.5/100,000 population in 1983 to 16.5/100,000 in 1996, and then increased to 44.6/100,000 in 2015. Tuberculosis was the most common cause of death in 1983 and respiratory tract infections in 2015. We observed a significant decline in infant deaths caused by infectious diseases, but mortality in persons age >65 years increased from 135 deaths/100,000 population in 1996 to 307/100,000 in 2015. The relative inequality indices for respiratory tract infections, sepsis, and tuberculosis tended to increase over time. Although substantial progress has been achieved in terms of infant mortality, death rates from infectious disease has not decreased overall. Elderly populations with lower education levels and subgroups susceptible to respiratory infections and sepsis should be the focus of preventive policies. PMID:29350153

Ulcer disease prophylaxis in koi carp by bath immersion with chicken egg yolk containing anti-Aeromonas salmonicida IgY.

PubMed

Gan, Hongjian; He, Haiwen; Sato, Atsushi; Hatta, Hajime; Nakao, Miki; Somamoto, Tomonori

2015-04-01

Ulcer disease, caused by atypical Aeromonas salmonicida, is a serious concern in ornamental koi carp, because it induces skin ulceration, disfiguring ornamental fish and causing economic loses. The present study aimed to establish a novel prophylaxis with chicken egg yolk immunoglobulin, IgY, against ulcer disease and to assess its feasibility in the ornamental fish industry. Addition of egg yolk powder containing anti-A. salmonicida IgY to rearing water provided significant protection against an A. salmonicida bath infection, whereas administration of non-specific IgY did not. Consecutive immersion of fish into rearing water containing specific IgY completely prevented ulcer disease resulting from cohabitation infection, indicating that this prophylaxis could prevent infection from such type of contact. Thus, passive immunization induced by immersing fish into aquarium water containing specific IgY is a prospective prophylaxis against diseases caused by pathogens that invade the skin and gills. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Itch: a symptom of occult disease.

PubMed

Hiramanek, Navaz

2004-07-01

Pruritus, (the Latin word for itch), is defined as the 'desire to scratch'. It is a distressing, subjective symptom that may interfere significantly with the quality of a patient's life. This article summarises the systemic causes of pruritus, describes the assessment of a patient presenting with itch without dermatological cause, and discusses the management of itch in patients with cancer. Patients with pruritus that does not respond to conservative therapy should be evaluated for underlying systemic disease. Causes of systemic pruritus include cholestasis, thyroid disease, polycythaemia rubra vera, uraemia, Hodgkin disease, and HIV. A thorough history and a complete physical examination are central to the evaluation of pruritus. In the absence of skin lesions, diagnostic testing is directed by the clinical evaluation and may include a complete blood count, liver function tests, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen levels, measurement of thyroid stimulating hormone, and chest X-ray. Removal of the causative agent and appropriate investigation and treatment of the underlying disease are essential first line measures in the treatment of pruritus.

Background sequence characteristics influence the occurrence and severity of disease-causing mtDNA mutations

PubMed Central

Wei, Wei; Hudson, Gavin

2017-01-01

Inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations have emerged as a common cause of human disease, with mutations occurring multiple times in the world population. The clinical presentation of three pathogenic mtDNA mutations is strongly associated with a background mtDNA haplogroup, but it is not clear whether this is limited to a handful of examples or is a more general phenomenon. To address this, we determined the characteristics of 30,506 mtDNA sequences sampled globally. After performing several quality control steps, we ascribed an established pathogenicity score to the major alleles for each sequence. The mean pathogenicity score for known disease-causing mutations was significantly different between mtDNA macro-haplogroups. Several mutations were observed across all haplogroup backgrounds, whereas others were only observed on specific clades. In some instances this reflected a founder effect, but in others, the mutation recurred but only within the same phylogenetic cluster. Sequence diversity estimates showed that disease-causing mutations were more frequent on young sequences, and genomes with two or more disease-causing mutations were more common than expected by chance. These findings implicate the mtDNA background more generally in recurrent mutation events that have been purified through natural selection in older populations. This provides an explanation for the low frequency of mtDNA disease reported in specific ethnic groups. PMID:29253894

The long and short of it: the role of telomeres in fetal origins of adult disease.

PubMed

Hallows, Stephanie E; Regnault, Timothy R H; Betts, Dean H

2012-01-01

Placental insufficiency, maternal malnutrition, and other causes of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) can significantly affect short-term growth and long-term health. Following IUGR, there is an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes. The etiology of these diseases is beginning to be elucidated, and premature aging or cellular senescence through increased oxidative stress and DNA damage to telomeric ends may be initiators of these disease processes. This paper will explore the areas where telomere and telomerase biology can have significant effects on various tissues in the body in IUGR outcomes.

Patterns of mortality in public and private hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Ethiopia is encountering a growing burden of non-communicable diseases along with infectious diseases, perinatal and nutritional problems that have long been considered major problems of public health importance. This retrospective analysis was carried out to examine the mortality patterns from communicable diseases and non communicable diseases in public and private hospitals of Addis Ababa. Methods Approximately 47,153 deaths were captured over eight years (2002–2010) in forty three public and private hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data collectors (43 hospital clerks) and coordinators (3 nurses) had been extensively trained on how to review hospital death records. Information obtained included: dates of admission and death, age, sex, address, and principal cause of death. Only the diseases responsible for deaths are taken as the cause of death. Cause of death was coded using International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and data were double entered. Diseases were classified into: Group I (communicable diseases, maternal conditions and nutritional deficiencies); Group II (non-communicable causes); and Group III (injuries). Percentages, proportional mortality ratios, 95% confidence intervals (CI) and Adjusted odd ratios (OR) were calculated. Results Overall, 59% of the deaths were attributed to Group I diseases, and 31% to Group II diseases and 12% to injuries. Nearly 56% of the males and 68% of the females deaths were due to five leading causes (conditions arising during perinatal period, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, cardiovascular diseases and respiratory infections). Significantly larger proportions of females died from Group I (67%) and Group II diseases (32%) compared with males (where the respective proportions were 52% and 30%). Significantly higher proportion of males (17%) than females (6%) were dying from Group III diseases. Deaths due to Group I diseases decreased while those due to Group II diseases increased with age. Overall Group I diseases and HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and still birth mortality in particular have showed decreasing trend while Group II and III increasing over time. Double burden in mortality was highly observed in the age groups of 15–64 years. Those aged >45 years were dying more likely with non-communicable diseases compared with children. Children aged below 15 years were 16 times more likely to die from communicable, perinatal and nutritional conditions compared with elders. Mortality variation with age has been identified between public and private hospitals. Conclusions The results of the present study shows that, in addition to the common Group I causes of death, emerging group II diseases are contributing to high proportions of mortality in the public and private hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Thus, priority should be given to the prevention and management of conditions arising during perinatal period such as low birth weight and still birth, HIV/AIDS; tuberculosis, respiratory infections, cardiovascular diseases, malignant neoplasm, chronic respiratory diseases and road traffic accident. The planning of health resources and activities should take into account the double burden in mortality due to Group I and Group II diseases. This calls for strengthening approaches towards the control and prevention of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular and malignant neoplasm. PMID:23167315

Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in Iran

PubMed Central

Parhizgari, Najmeh; Gouya, Mohammad Mehdi; Mostafavi, Ehsan

2017-01-01

Despite development of preventive and controlling strategies regarding infectious diseases, they are still considered as one of the most significant leading causes of morbidity and mortality, worldwide. Changes in humans’ demographics and behaviors, microbial and ecological alterations, agricultural development, international travels and susceptibility to infectious diseases have resulted in increased reports of emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) and reemerging infectious diseases (RIDs) in various geographical areas. Because of the various types of geographic properties in Iran, substantial climatic variability, as well as unstable political situations and poor public health conditions in some of neighboring countries, EIDs and RIDs are serious public health problems; among them, zoonotic and drug resistant diseases are the most significant. Hence, this review provides an overview of the significant bacterial, viral and fungal EIDs and RIDs in Iran regarding their epidemiological aspects. PMID:29225752

Factors and processes modulating phenotypes in neuronopathic lysosomal storage diseases.

PubMed

Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka, Joanna; Gabig-Cimińska, Magdalena; Banecka-Majkutewicz, Zyta; Banecki, Bogdan; Węgrzyn, Alicja; Węgrzyn, Grzegorz

2014-03-01

Lysosomal storage diseases are inherited metabolic disorders caused by genetic defects causing deficiency of various lysosomal proteins, and resultant accumulation of non-degraded compounds. They are multisystemic diseases, and in most of them (>70%) severe brain dysfunctions are evident. However, expression of various phenotypes in particular diseases is extremely variable, from non-neuronopathic to severely neurodegenerative in the deficiency of the same enzyme. Although all lysosomal storage diseases are monogenic, clear genotype-phenotype correlations occur only in some cases. In this article, we present an overview on various factors and processes, both general and specific for certain disorders, that can significantly modulate expression of phenotypes in these diseases. On the basis of recent reports describing studies on both animal models and clinical data, we propose a hypothesis that efficiency of production of compounds that cannot be degraded due to enzyme deficiency might be especially important in modulation of phenotypes of patients suffering from lysosomal storage diseases.

A brief review of infectious and parasitic diseases of wapiti, with emphasis on western Canada and the northwestern United States

PubMed Central

Smits, Judit E.G.

1991-01-01

In this paper I review diseases reported in both captive and free-ranging wapiti in western North America, with some reference to diseases in captive red deer in Great Britain, Europe, New Zealand, and eastern North America. With the exception of coronavirus in neonates, few viral agents are reported to cause serious disease losses in wapiti in North America at this time. Bacterial diseases of current significance include brucellosis (focus in Wyoming), clostridial diseases, coliform enteritis of neonates, pasteurellosis, and necrobacillosis. The endoparasites most likely to be seen causing lesions in wapiti of western North America are lungworm (Dictyocaulus viviparus), arterial worm (Elaeophora schneideri), and, possibly, liver fluke (Fascioloides magna). Ectoparasites of importance to wapiti are Psoroptes cervinus and Dermacentor albipictus. Nutritional diseases are not covered in this review. ImagesFigure 1. PMID:17423839

Increased Vascular Disease Mortality Risk in Prediabetic Korean Adults Is Mainly Attributable to Ischemic Stroke.

PubMed

Kim, Nam Hoon; Kwon, Tae Yeon; Yu, Sungwook; Kim, Nan Hee; Choi, Kyung Mook; Baik, Sei Hyun; Park, Yousung; Kim, Sin Gon

2017-04-01

Prediabetes is a known risk factor for vascular diseases; however, its differential contribution to mortality risk from various vascular disease subtypes is not known. The subjects of the National Health Insurance Service in Korea (2002-2013) nationwide cohort were stratified into normal glucose tolerance (fasting glucose <100 mg/dL), impaired fasting glucose (IFG) stage 1 (100-109 mg/dL), IFG stage 2 (110-125 mg/dL), and diabetes mellitus groups based on the fasting glucose level. A Cox regression analysis with counting process formulation was used to assess the mortality risk for vascular disease and its subtypes-ischemic heart disease, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke. When adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index, IFG stage 2, but not stage 1, was associated with significantly higher all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18-1.34) and vascular disease mortality (HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.08-1.49) compared with normal glucose tolerance. Among the vascular disease subtypes, mortality from ischemic stroke was significantly higher (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.18-2.18) in subjects with IFG stage 2 but not from ischemic heart disease and hemorrhagic stroke. The ischemic stroke mortality associated with IFG stage 2 remained significantly high when adjusted other modifiable vascular disease risk factors (HR, 1.51; 95% CI: 1.10-2.09) and medical treatments (HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.19-2.57). Higher IFG degree (fasting glucose, 110-125 mg/dL) was associated with increased all-cause and vascular disease mortality. The increased vascular disease mortality in IFG stage 2 was attributable to ischemic stroke, but not ischemic heart disease or hemorrhagic stroke in Korean adults. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

[Naturally occurring reassortants of infectious bursal disease virus - A review].

PubMed

Qi, Xiaole; Gao, Li; Wang, Xiaomei

2016-05-04

Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) is an important representative of Birnaviridae, which causes infectious bursal disease (IBD), one important immuno-suppressive and fatal disease threatening the poultry husbandry. The naturally occurring reassortants of IBDV induced new risks to disease prevention and control. Here, we reviewed the main types of the genome segments reassortants and intragenic recombination, the inherent mechanism and the biological significances were analyzed, which would give us new insights into the virus genetic evolution research and the disease control strategy.

Trends in educational inequalities in cause specific mortality in Norway from 1960 to 2010: a turning point for educational inequalities in cause specific mortality of Norwegian men after the millennium?

PubMed

Strand, Bjørn Heine; Steingrímsdóttir, Ólöf Anna; Grøholt, Else-Karin; Ariansen, Inger; Graff-Iversen, Sidsel; Næss, Øyvind

2014-11-24

Educational inequalities in total mortality in Norway have widened during 1960-2000. We wanted to investigate if inequalities have continued to increase in the post millennium decade, and which causes of deaths were the main drivers. All deaths (total and cause specific) in the adult Norwegian population aged 45-74 years over five decades, until 2010 were included; in all 708,449 deaths and over 62 million person years. Two indices of inequalities were used to measure inequality and changes in inequalities over time, on the relative scale (Relative Index of Inequality, RII) and on the absolute scale (Slope Index of Inequality, SII). Relative inequalities in total mortality increased over the five decades in both genders. Among men absolute inequalities stabilized during 2000-2010, after steady, significant increases each decade back to the 1960s, while in women, absolute inequalities continued to increase significantly during the last decade. The stabilization in absolute inequalities among men in the last decade was mostly due to a fall in inequalities in cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and lung cancer and respiratory disease mortality. Still, in this last decade, the absolute inequalities in cause-specific mortality among men were mostly due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) (34% of total mortality inequality), lung cancer and respiratory diseases (21%). Among women the absolute inequalities in mortality were mostly due to lung cancer and chronic lower respiratory tract diseases (30%) and CVD (27%). In men, absolute inequalities in mortality have stopped increasing, seemingly due to reduction in inequalities in CVD mortality. Absolute inequality in mortality continues to widen among women, mostly due to death from lung cancer and chronic lung disease. Relative educational inequalities in mortality are still on the rise for Norwegian men and women.

Mapping of QTL for bacterial cold water disease resistance in rainbow trout

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic loss in salmonids aquaculture. We previously detected genetic variation in survival following challenge with Flavobacterium psychrophilum (Fp), the causative agent of BCWD in rainbow trout, and a family-based selection program to impro...

Pseudomonas blight caused by Pseudomonas syringae on raspberry in California

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Plantings of red raspberry (Rubus idaeus var. strigosus) exhibited symptoms of a previously undocumented disease. Lesions were observable from both adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces. As disease progressed, lesions enlarged and coalesced, resulting in significant dark brown to black blighting of the ...

Survival of patients treated for end-stage renal disease by dialysis and transplantation.

PubMed Central

Higgins, M. R.; Grace, M.; Dossetor, J. B.

1977-01-01

The results of treatment in 213 patients with end-stage renal disease who underwent hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or transplantation, or a combination, between 1962 and 1975 were analysed. Comparison by censored survival analysis showed significantly better (P less than 0.01) patient survival with the integrated therapy of dialysis and transplantation than with either form of dialysis alone. There was no significant difference in survival of males and females but survival at the extremes of age was poorer. Analysis of survival by major cause of renal failure indicated best survival in patients with congenital renal disease. Graft and patient survival rates at 1 year after the first transplantation were 42% and 69%. The major cause of death in this series was vascular disease but infection was responsible for 50% of deaths after transplantation. While integration of dialysis with transplantation produces best patient survival, this course is possible only when sufficient cadaver kidneys are available. PMID:334354

Meta-analysis: low-dose intake of vitamin E combined with other vitamins or minerals may decrease all-cause mortality.

PubMed

Jiang, Shan; Pan, Zhenyu; Li, Hui; Li, Fenglan; Song, Yanyan; Qiu, Yu

2014-01-01

It has been suggested that vitamin E alone or combined with other vitamins or minerals can prevent oxidative stress and slow oxidative injury-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library was performed. Relative risk was used as an effect measure to compare the intervention and control groups. A total of 33 trials were included in the meta-analysis. Neither vitamin E intake alone (RR=1.01; 95% CI, 0.97 to 1.04; p=0.77) nor vitamin E intake combined with other agents (RR=0.97; 95% CI, 0.89 to 1.06; p=0.55) was correlated with all-cause mortality. Subgroup analyses revealed that low-dose vitamin E supplementation combined with other agents is associated with a statistically significant reduction in all-cause mortality (RR=0.92; 95% CI, 0.86 to 0.98; p=0.01), and vitamin E intake combined with other agents is associated with a statistically significant reduction in mortality rates among individuals without probable or confirmed diseases (RR=0.92; 95% CI, 0.86 to 0.99; p=0.02). Neither vitamin E intake alone nor combined with other agents is associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality. But a low dose (<400 IU/d) of vitamin E combined with other agents is correlated with a reduction in all-cause mortality, and vitamin E intake combined with other agents is correlated with a reduction in the mortality rate among individuals without probable or confirmed diseases.

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids: Potential Role in the Etiology of Cancers, Pulmonary Hypertension, Congenital Anomalies, and Liver Disease.

PubMed

Edgar, John A; Molyneux, Russell J; Colegate, Steven M

2015-01-20

Large outbreaks of acute food-related poisoning, characterized by hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, hemorrhagic necrosis, and rapid liver failure, occur on a regular basis in some countries. They are caused by 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids contaminating locally grown grain. Similar acute poisoning can also result from deliberate or accidental consumption of 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloid-containing herbal medicines, teas, and spices. In recent years, it has been confirmed that there is also significant, low-level dietary exposure to 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids in many countries due to consumption of common foods such as honey, milk, eggs, salads, and meat. The level of 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids in these foods is generally too low and too intermittent to cause acute toxicity. However, these alkaloids are genotoxic and can cause slowly developing chronic diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension, cancers, cirrhosis, and congenital anomalies, conditions unlikely to be easily linked with dietary exposure to 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids, especially if clinicians are unaware that such dietary exposure is occurring. This Perspective provides a comprehensive review of the acute and chronic toxicity of 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids and their potential to initiate certain chronic diseases, and suggests some associative considerations or indicators to assist in recognizing specific cases of diseases that may have resulted from dietary exposure to these hazardous natural substances. If it can be established that low-level dietary exposure to 1,2-dehydropyrrolizidine alkaloids is a significant cause of some of these costly and debilitating diseases, then this should lead to initiatives to reduce the level of these alkaloids in the food chain.

Inhibitory effect and possible mechanism of a Pseudomonas strain QBA5 against gray mold on tomato leaves and fruits caused by Botrytis cinerea

PubMed Central

Gao, Pan; Qin, Jiaxing; Li, Delong

2018-01-01

The fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold disease on various hosts, which results in serious economic losses. Over the past several decades, many kinds of fungicides have been used to successfully control the disease. Meanwhile, the uses of fungicides lead to environmental pollution as well as a potential threat to the human health by the chemical residues in tomato fruit. Also, the gray mold disease is difficult to control with fungicides. Therefore, exploring alternative measures such as biological controls could be the best choice to control the disease and alleviate damages caused by fungicides. In this study, we isolated and identified a novel Pseudomonas strain termed as QBA5 from healthy tomato plant based on the morphological, biochemical characteristics and molecular detection. The antifungal activity assays revealed that, in the presence of QBA5, conidia germination, germ tube elongation and mycelial growth of B. cinerea were significantly inhibited. Most importantly, QBA5 exerted a significant preventive effectiveness against gray mold on tomato fruits and plants. The possible mechanism of QBA5 involved in the inhibition of B. cinerea was investigated. It revealed that the conidia plasma membrane of B. cinerea was severely damaged by QBA5. Further, four different antifungal compounds in the supernatant of QBA5 were separated by preparative high performance liquid chromatography (PHPLC). Overall, the data indicate that there is a considerable potential for QBA5 to reduce the damage caused by gray mold disease on tomato. PMID:29320571

Inhibitory effect and possible mechanism of a Pseudomonas strain QBA5 against gray mold on tomato leaves and fruits caused by Botrytis cinerea.

PubMed

Gao, Pan; Qin, Jiaxing; Li, Delong; Zhou, Shanyue

2018-01-01

The fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold disease on various hosts, which results in serious economic losses. Over the past several decades, many kinds of fungicides have been used to successfully control the disease. Meanwhile, the uses of fungicides lead to environmental pollution as well as a potential threat to the human health by the chemical residues in tomato fruit. Also, the gray mold disease is difficult to control with fungicides. Therefore, exploring alternative measures such as biological controls could be the best choice to control the disease and alleviate damages caused by fungicides. In this study, we isolated and identified a novel Pseudomonas strain termed as QBA5 from healthy tomato plant based on the morphological, biochemical characteristics and molecular detection. The antifungal activity assays revealed that, in the presence of QBA5, conidia germination, germ tube elongation and mycelial growth of B. cinerea were significantly inhibited. Most importantly, QBA5 exerted a significant preventive effectiveness against gray mold on tomato fruits and plants. The possible mechanism of QBA5 involved in the inhibition of B. cinerea was investigated. It revealed that the conidia plasma membrane of B. cinerea was severely damaged by QBA5. Further, four different antifungal compounds in the supernatant of QBA5 were separated by preparative high performance liquid chromatography (PHPLC). Overall, the data indicate that there is a considerable potential for QBA5 to reduce the damage caused by gray mold disease on tomato.

[Primary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of Thymus Caused Cushing Syndrome: Surgical Treatment and Prognosis Analysis].

PubMed

Li, Li; Chen, Yeye; Li, Shanqing; Liu, Hongsheng; Huang, Cheng; Qin, Yingzhi

2015-07-01

Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of thymus (pNECT) is a rare thymic neoplasm. Some pNECTs could produce an adrenocorticotropic hormone and cause Cushing syndrome (CS). The aim os this study is to discuss the diagnostic technique and surgical management of pNECT-caused CS and analyze prognosis factors to improve the clinical experience of the disease. The outcome of surgery and follow-up of 14 cases (eight males and six females) of pNECT-caused CS were retrospectively analyzed from November 1987 to June 2013. The median age of the patients was 29, and the median duration of the disease was four months (1 month-44 months). All cases exhibited clinical evidence for the diagnosis of CS, and thoracic computed tomography (CT) was used to detect thymic tumors. Surgical treatment significantly decreased the concentration of both serum cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (P<0.01) but caused one death in the perioperative period. With multidisciplinary therapy, the median survival was 38 months. pNECT-caused CS is a rare disease with aggressive characteristics and unclear prognosis. Early diagnosis and therapy is a challenge for clinicians. Thoracic CT is important for disease location and preoperative evaluation and should be routinely applied to all CS patients to allow early surgery and improved prognosis.

Differential effects of lesion mimic mutants in barley on disease development by facultative pathogens

PubMed Central

McGrann, Graham R. D.; Steed, , Andrew; Burt, Christopher; Nicholson, Paul; Brown, James K. M.

2015-01-01

Lesion mimic mutants display spontaneous necrotic spots and chlorotic leaves as a result of mis-regulated cell death programmes. Typically these mutants have increased resistance to biotrophic pathogens but their response to facultative fungi that cause necrotrophic diseases is less well studied. The effect of altered cell death regulation on the development of disease caused by Ramularia collo-cygni, Fusarium culmorum and Oculimacula yallundae was explored using a collection of barley necrotic (nec) lesion mimic mutants. nec8 mutants displayed lower levels of all three diseases compared to nec9 mutants, which had increased R. collo-cygni but decreased F. culmorum disease symptoms. nec1 mutants reduced disease development caused by both R. collo-cygni and F. culmorum. The severity of the nec1-induced lesion mimic phenotype and F. culmorum symptom development was reduced by mutation of the negative cell death regulator MLO. The significant reduction in R. collo-cygni symptoms caused by nec1 was completely abolished in the presence of the mlo-5 allele and both symptoms and fungal biomass were greater than in the wild-type. These results indicate that physiological pathways involved in regulation of cell death interact with one another in their effects on different fungal pathogens. PMID:25873675

Epidemiological transition in a rural community of northern India: 18-year mortality surveillance using verbal autopsy.

PubMed

Kumar, Rajesh; Kumar, Dinesh; Jagnoor, J; Aggarwal, Arun K; Lakshmi, P V M

2012-10-01

Information on causes of death is vital for planning of health services. However, vital events registration systems are weak in developing countries. Therefore, verbal autopsy (VA) tools were incorporated in a community-based surveillance system to track causes of death. Trained fieldworker identified all deaths and interviewed a living relative of those who had died during 1992-2009, using VA, in eight villages of Haryana (11,864 populations). These field reports detailing events preceding death were reviewed by two trained physicians, who independently assigned an International Classification of Disease-10 code to each death. Discrepancies were resolved through reconciliation and, if necessary, adjudication. Non-communicable conditions were the leading causes of death (47.6%) followed by communicable diseases including maternal, perinatal and nutritional conditions (34.0%), and injuries (11.4%). Cause of death could not be determined in 6.9% cases. Deaths due to cardiovascular diseases showed a significant rise, whereas deaths due to diarrhoeal diseases have declined (p<0.01). Majority (90.0%) of the deceased had contacted a healthcare provider during illness but only 11.5% were admitted in hospital before death. Rising trend of cardiovascular diseases observed in a rural community of Haryana in India calls for reorientation of rural healthcare delivery system for prevention and control of chronic diseases.

Transgenic expression of lactoferrin imparts enhanced resistance to head blight of wheat caused by Fusarium graminearum.

PubMed

Han, Jigang; Lakshman, Dilip K; Galvez, Leny C; Mitra, Sharmila; Baenziger, Peter Stephen; Mitra, Amitava

2012-03-09

The development of plant gene transfer systems has allowed for the introgression of alien genes into plant genomes for novel disease control strategies, thus providing a mechanism for broadening the genetic resources available to plant breeders. Using the tools of plant genetic engineering, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial gene was tested for resistance against head blight caused by Fusarium graminearum Schwabe, a devastating disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) that reduces both grain yield and quality. A construct containing a bovine lactoferrin cDNA was used to transform wheat using an Agrobacterium-mediated DNA transfer system to express this antimicrobial protein in transgenic wheat. Transformants were analyzed by Northern and Western blots to determine lactoferrin gene expression levels and were inoculated with the head blight disease fungus F. graminearum. Transgenic wheat showed a significant reduction of disease incidence caused by F. graminearum compared to control wheat plants. The level of resistance in the highly susceptible wheat cultivar Bobwhite was significantly higher in transgenic plants compared to control Bobwhite and two untransformed commercial wheat cultivars, susceptible Wheaton and tolerant ND 2710. Quantification of the expressed lactoferrin protein by ELISA in transgenic wheat indicated a positive correlation between the lactoferrin gene expression levels and the levels of disease resistance. Introgression of the lactoferrin gene into elite commercial wheat, barley and other susceptible cereals may enhance resistance to F. graminearum.

Genetic causes and gene–nutrient interactions in mammalian zinc deficiencies: acrodermatitis enteropathica and transient neonatal zinc deficiency as examples.

PubMed

Kasana, Shakhenabat; Din, Jamila; Maret, Wolfgang

2015-01-01

Discovering genetic causes of zinc deficiency has been a remarkable scientific journey. It started with the description of a rare skin disease, its treatment with various agents, the successful therapy with zinc, and the identification of mutations in a zinc transporter causing the disease. The journey continues with defining the molecular and cellular pathways that lead to the symptoms caused by zinc deficiency. Remarkably, at least two zinc transporters from separate protein families are now known to be involved in the genetics of zinc deficiency. One is ZIP4, which is involved in intestinal zinc uptake. Its mutations can cause acrodermatitis enteropathica (AE) with autosomal recessive inheritance. The other one is ZnT2, the transporter responsible for supplying human milk with zinc. Mutations in this transporter cause transient neonatal zinc deficiency (TNZD) with symptoms similar to AE but with autosomal dominant inheritance. The two diseases can be distinguished in affected infants. AE is fatal if zinc is not supplied to the infant after weaning, whereas TNZD is a genetic defect of the mother limiting the supply of zinc in the milk, and therefore the infant usually will obtain enough zinc once weaned. Although these diseases are relatively rare, the full functional consequences of the numerous mutations in ZIP4 and ZnT2 and their interactions with dietary zinc are not known. In particular, it remains unexplored whether some mutations cause milder disease phenotypes or increase the risk for other diseases if dietary zinc requirements are not met or exceeded. Thus, it is not known whether widespread zinc deficiency in human populations is based primarily on a nutritional deficiency or determined by genetic factors as well. This consideration becomes even more significant with regard to mutations in the other 22 human zinc transporters, where associations with a range of diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and mental illnesses have been observed. Therefore, clinical tests for genetic disorders of zinc metabolism need to be developed.

Household Fuel Use and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality: Golestan Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Mitter, Sumeet S.; Vedanthan, Rajesh; Islami, Farhad; Pourshams, Akram; Khademi, Hooman; Kamangar, Farin; Abnet, Christian C.; Dawsey, Sanford M.; Pharoah, Paul D.; Brennan, Paul; Fuster, Valentin; Boffetta, Paolo; Malekzadeh, Reza

2016-01-01

Background Household air pollution is the third largest risk factor for global disease burden, but direct links with cardiovascular disease mortality are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between household fuel use and cardiovascular disease mortality. Methods and Results The Golestan Cohort Study in northeastern Iran enrolled 50045 individuals aged 40 to 75 years between 2004 and 2008, and collected data on lifetime household fuel use and other baseline exposures. Participants were followed through 2012 with a 99% successful follow-up rate. Cox proportional hazards models were fitted to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for associations between pehen (local dung), wood, kerosene/diesel, or natural gas burning for cooking and heating and all-cause and cause-specific mortality, adjusting for lifetime exposure to each of these fuels and potential confounders. 3073 participants (6%) died during follow-up, 78% of which were attributable to non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular, oncologic and respiratory illnesses. Adjusted 10-year HRs from kerosene/diesel burning were 1.06 (95% CI 1.02-1.10), and 1.11 (1.06-1.17), respectively, for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Subtype-specific analyses revealed a significant increase in ischemic heart disease (10-year HR 1.14 (1.06-1.21)) and a trend toward cerebrovascular accident (10-year HR 1.08 (0.99-1.17)) mortality. Stratification by sex revealed a potential signal for increased risk for all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality among women versus men, with similar risk for ischemic heart disease mortality. Conclusions Household exposure to high-pollution fuels was associated with increased risk for all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality. Replicating these results worldwide would support efforts to reduce such exposures. PMID:27297340

Tick-Borne Pathogen – Reversed and Conventional Discovery of Disease

PubMed Central

Tijsse-Klasen, Ellen; Koopmans, Marion P. G.; Sprong, Hein

2014-01-01

Molecular methods have increased the number of known microorganisms associated with ticks significantly. Some of these newly identified microorganisms are readily linked to human disease while others are yet unknown to cause human disease. The face of tick-borne disease discovery has changed with more diseases now being discovered in a “reversed way,” detecting disease cases only years after the tick-borne microorganism was first discovered. Compared to the conventional discovery of infectious diseases, reverse order discovery presents researchers with new challenges. Estimating public health risks of such agents is especially challenging, as case definitions and diagnostic procedures may initially be missing. We discuss the advantages and shortcomings of molecular methods, serology, and epidemiological studies that might be used to study some fundamental questions regarding newly identified tick-borne diseases. With increased tick-exposure and improved detection methods, more tick-borne microorganisms will be added to the list of pathogens causing disease in humans in the future. PMID:25072045

Getting back the missing men of Aotearoa: declining gender inequality in NZ life expectancy.

PubMed

Sandiford, Peter

2009-12-01

Men's health is of increasing concern to policy makers worldwide. Although women generally live significantly longer than men, the difference in life expectancy in many countries is now narrowing. To document the trend in sex differences in New Zealand (NZ) life expectancy at birth (LEB) over the last decades and to determine disease patterns which account for it. Decomposition of sex differences in LEB by age and cause for the periods 1980-82, 1985-87, 1990-92,1995-97, 2000-02, and 2005-06, using registered deaths and model life tables. Sex differences in LEB increased from 1951 to peak in 1976 before narrowing again. In 2006 they reached almost exactly the level they were at 55 years earlier. Changes in relative mortality from ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and to a lesser extent accidents, respiratory disease and other circulatory causes, brought about the recent decline in gender survival disparities. IHD continues to be a significant cause of gender inequality, but cancers have now become a major component of the sex difference in LEB. NZ's experience mirrors closely that of other developed countries in pattern, timingand the age-cause composition of the trend in gender survival disparities. Thus differences in the timing of taking up smoking, found to explain a substantial portion of the trend elsewhere, were probably also important in NZ, but improvements in medical outcomes for smokers also must have played a significant role. Primary care practitioners will continue to reduce gender survival disparities by workingto ensure a high uptake of services such as screening for colorectal cancer, one of many diseases responsible for lower male life expectancy.

Preparation of a Burkholderia Mallei Vaccine

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-03-01

Glanders , caused by Burkholderia mallei , is a significant disease for humans due to the serious nature of the infection. It is recognized that B... Mallei is an organism with tremendous infectivity that poses a significant hazard to humans exposed to aerosols containing this organism. Our knowledge...of the pathogenesis of disease due to B Mallei is lacking. At present, no effective vaccines are available against this organism, and information on

Use of Nested and Real-Time PCR for the Detection of Ceratocystis fagacearum in the Sapwood of Diseased Oak Species in Minnesota

Treesearch

A. Yang; J. Juzwik

2017-01-01

Oak wilt caused by Ceratocystis fagacearum is a significant disease of Quercus spp. in the eastern United States. Early and accurate detection of the pathogen is particularly important when disease control is planned. Nested and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods utilizing fungal DNA extracted from sapwood drill...

Evidence of major genes for resistance to bacterial cold-water disease in rainbow trout using mixed inheritance multiple-threshold models and Bayesian segregation analysis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

PURPOSE: Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic loss in salmonid aquaculture, and in 2005, a rainbow trout breeding program was initiated at the NCCCWA to select for increased disease survival. The main objectives of this study were to determine the mode of inheritance of di...

Genomic impact of cigarette smoke, with application to three smoking-related diseases.

PubMed

Talikka, M; Sierro, N; Ivanov, N V; Chaudhary, N; Peck, M J; Hoeng, J; Coggins, C R E; Peitsch, M C

2012-11-01

There is considerable evidence that inhaled toxicants such as cigarette smoke can cause both irreversible changes to the genetic material (DNA mutations) and putatively reversible changes to the epigenetic landscape (changes in the DNA methylation and chromatin modification state). The diseases that are believed to involve genetic and epigenetic perturbations include lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cardiovascular disease (CVD), all of which are strongly linked epidemiologically to cigarette smoking. In this review, we highlight the significance of genomics and epigenomics in these major smoking-related diseases. We also summarize the in vitro and in vivo findings on the specific perturbations that smoke and its constituent compounds can inflict upon the genome, particularly on the pulmonary system. Finally, we review state-of-the-art genomics and new techniques such as high-throughput sequencing and genome-wide chromatin assays, rapidly evolving techniques which have allowed epigenetic changes to be characterized at the genome level. These techniques have the potential to significantly improve our understanding of the specific mechanisms by which exposure to environmental chemicals causes disease. Such mechanistic knowledge provides a variety of opportunities for enhanced product safety assessment and the discovery of novel therapeutic interventions.

Clinical characteristics, healthcare costs, and resource utilization in hepatitis C vary by genotype.

PubMed

Goolsby Hunter, Alyssa; Rosenblatt, Lisa; Patel, Chad; Blauer-Peterson, Cori; Anduze-Faris, Beatrice

2017-05-01

In the United States, approximately 3 million people are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Genotypes of HCV variably affect disease progression and treatment response. However, the relationships between HCV genotypes and liver disease progression, healthcare resource utilization, and healthcare costs have not been fully explored. In this retrospective study of patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), healthcare claims from a large US health plan were used to collect data on patient demographic and clinical characteristics. Main outcome measures include healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) and healthcare costs. Linked laboratory data provided genotype and select measures to determine liver disease severity. The sample (mean age 50.6 years, 63.5% male) included 10,331 patients, of whom 79.1% had genotype (GT)1, 12.8% had GT2, and 8.1% had GT3. Descriptive analyses demonstrated variation by HCV genotype in liver and non-liver related comorbidities, liver disease severity, and healthcare costs. The highest percentage of patients with liver-related comorbidities and advanced liver disease was found among those with GT3. Meanwhile, patients with GT2 had lower HCRU and the lowest costs, and patients with GT1 had the highest total all-cause costs. These differences may reflect differing rates of non-liver-related comorbidities and all-cause care. Multivariable analyses showed that genotype was a significant predictor of costs and liver disease severity: compared with patients having GT1, those with GT3 were significantly more likely to have advanced liver disease. Patients with GT2 were significantly less likely to have advanced disease and more likely to have lower all-cause costs. Results may not be generalizable to patients outside the represented commercial insurance plans, and analysis of a prevalent population may underestimate HCRU and costs relative to a sample of treated patients. These results suggest that liver disease progression varies by genotype and that CHC patients with GT3 appear to have more severe liver disease. These findings highlight the importance of effective HCV treatment for all patients and support guidelines for treatment of high-risk patients, including those with GT3.

Hydatid disease in childhood: revisited report of an interesting case.

PubMed

Jairajpuri, Zeeba Shamim; Jetley, Sujata; Hassan, Md Jaseem; Hussain, Musharraf

2012-10-01

Hydatid disease is a zoonosis caused by the tapeworm of Echinococcus spp. The disease is widely endemic in many sheep and cattle rearing locales. However, hydatidosis does not remain restricted to endemic geographical locales anymore but rather is a global health concern. It is a major public health burden causing significant morbidity and mortality. Echinococcus granulosus involvement in children has a different pattern than adults. Children of all age groups are susceptible and localization of the disease in the lungs is more commonly seen. Multiple liver cysts in the paediatric age group is relatively uncommon. We report an interesting case of multiple liver cysts in a 5-year old boy which was diagnosed as hydatid cysts on histopathological examination.

A swainsonine survey of North American Astragalus and Oxytropis taxa implicated as locoweeds

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Swainsonine, an indolizidine alkaloid with significant physiological activity, is an a-mannosidase and mannosidase II inhibitor that causes lysosomal storage disease and alters glycoprotein processing. Swainsonine is found in a number of plant species worldwide and causes severe toxicosis in livest...

Curly Top Disease of Tomato

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Curly top disease, caused by viruses in the genus, Curtovirus, has impacted western US agriculture for over a century; and is a significant threat to tomato production. The two most abundant curtovirus species today are Beet severe curly top virus (BSCTV) and Beet mild curly top virus (BMCTV) but ot...

Sleuthing out a silent scourge for amphibians

Treesearch

Noreen Parks; Deanna (Dede) Olson

2013-01-01

The amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), causes the infectious disease chytridiomycosis, which has triggered massive die-offs and extinctions of amphibians around the world. The disease, identified in 1998, is a significant contributor to the global amphibian biodiversity crisis, and no clear means of arresting its spread...

Preventing Heart Attacks and Strokes: Increasing Awareness of the Adverse Cardiovascular Health Impacts of Air Pollution

EPA Science Inventory

Summary: Chronic cardiovascular disease imposes a significant health and economic burden on individuals and communities. Despite decades of improvement in cardiovascular mortality, cardiovascular disease and stroke remain the leading cause of death in the U.S. and disparities i...

Clinical course of hepatitis C virus during the first decade of infection: cohort study

PubMed Central

Harris, Helen E; Ramsay, Mary E; Andrews, Nick; Eldridge, Keith P

2002-01-01

Objective To determine the clinical course of hepatitis C virus in the first decade of infection in a group of patients who acquired their infections on a known date. Design Cohort study. Setting Clinical centres throughout the United Kingdom. Participants 924 transfusion recipients infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) traced during the HCV lookback programme and 475 transfusion recipients who tested negative for antibodies to HCV (controls). Main outcome measures Clinical evidence of liver disease and survival after 10 years of infection. Results All cause mortality was not significantly different between patients and controls (Cox's hazards ratio 1.41, 95% confidence interval 0.95 to 2.08). Patients were more likely to be certified with a death related to liver disease than were controls (12.84, 1.73 to 95.44), but although the risk of death directly from liver disease was higher in patients than controls this difference was not significant (5.78, 0.72 to 46.70). Forty per cent of the patients who died directly from liver disease were known to have consumed excess alcohol. Clinical follow up of 826 patients showed that liver function was abnormal in 307 (37.2%), and 115 (13.9%) reported physical signs or symptoms of liver disease. Factors associated with developing liver disease were testing positive for HCV ribonucleic acid (odds ratio 6.44, 2.67 to 15.48), having acquired infection when older (at age ⩾ 40 years; 1.80, 1.14 to 2.85), and years since transfusion (odds ratio 1.096 per year, 1.00 to 1.20). For patients with severe disease, sex was also significant (odds ratio for women 0.38, 0.17 to 0.88). Of the 362 patients who had undergone liver biopsy, 328 (91%) had abnormal histological results and 35 (10%) of these were cirrhotic. Conclusions Hepatitis C virus infection did not have a great impact on all cause mortality in the first decade of infection. Infected patients were at increased risk of dying directly from liver disease, particularly if they consumed excess alcohol, but this difference was not statistically significant. What is already known on this topicThe clinical course of HCV infection is unclear because most information has come from studies of patients with established chronic liver diseaseStudies that follow patients from disease onset are rare because most HCV infections are asymptomaticWhat this study addsHCV infection does not have a great impact on all cause mortality in the first decade of infectionInfected patients have an increased risk of dying from a liver related cause, particularly if they consumed excess alcohol PMID:11859045

Socioeconomic differentials in cause-specific mortality among South Korean adolescents.

PubMed

Cho, Hong-Jun; Khang, Young-Ho; Yang, Seungmi; Harper, Sam; Lynch, John W

2007-02-01

There is inconsistent evidence regarding the presence of a socioeconomic differential in adolescent all-cause and cause-specific mortality. This study examines possible socioeconomic mortality differentials in Korean adolescents. Method A total of 330 321 boys and 311 830 girls aged 10-19, who are health insurance beneficiaries for civil servants and private school teachers of Korean Health Insurance Cooperation, were followed for 9 years (1995-2003). Parental income information was linked to national death certificate data. For boys, all-cause mortality showed a graded inverse relationship with income level in both 10-14 year olds (RR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.40-1.91) and 15-19 year olds (RR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.40-1.91). The major contributor was mortality differentials from external causes, with differentials of transport accident death the most important. Mortality from circulatory disease was higher in the lowest income groups in 15-19 year olds (RR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.09-4.50). A significant socioeconomic gradient of non-external cause mortality was found in 15-19 year olds. For girls, socioeconomic differentials were less evident than boys. The all-cause mortality gradient for girls was smaller than for boys and only significant between the lowest and the highest tertile in both 10-14 year olds and 15-19 year olds (RR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.02-1.72, RR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.11-1.72, respectively). There were significant socioeconomic mortality differentials in all external causes and transport accidents and a marginally significant difference in suicide mortality for 10-19 year olds. Mortality from non-external causes showed no social gradient in girls. Socioeconomic differentials in all-cause mortality were observed in adolescents, even in early youth. This pattern might also apply to mortality from non-external causes, especially cardiovascular disease in 15-19 year old males.

The Loss and Gain of Functional Amino Acid Residues Is a Common Mechanism Causing Human Inherited Disease

PubMed Central

Lugo-Martinez, Jose; Pejaver, Vikas; Pagel, Kymberleigh A.; Mort, Matthew; Cooper, David N.; Mooney, Sean D.; Radivojac, Predrag

2016-01-01

Elucidating the precise molecular events altered by disease-causing genetic variants represents a major challenge in translational bioinformatics. To this end, many studies have investigated the structural and functional impact of amino acid substitutions. Most of these studies were however limited in scope to either individual molecular functions or were concerned with functional effects (e.g. deleterious vs. neutral) without specifically considering possible molecular alterations. The recent growth of structural, molecular and genetic data presents an opportunity for more comprehensive studies to consider the structural environment of a residue of interest, to hypothesize specific molecular effects of sequence variants and to statistically associate these effects with genetic disease. In this study, we analyzed data sets of disease-causing and putatively neutral human variants mapped to protein 3D structures as part of a systematic study of the loss and gain of various types of functional attribute potentially underlying pathogenic molecular alterations. We first propose a formal model to assess probabilistically function-impacting variants. We then develop an array of structure-based functional residue predictors, evaluate their performance, and use them to quantify the impact of disease-causing amino acid substitutions on catalytic activity, metal binding, macromolecular binding, ligand binding, allosteric regulation and post-translational modifications. We show that our methodology generates actionable biological hypotheses for up to 41% of disease-causing genetic variants mapped to protein structures suggesting that it can be reliably used to guide experimental validation. Our results suggest that a significant fraction of disease-causing human variants mapping to protein structures are function-altering both in the presence and absence of stability disruption. PMID:27564311

The Loss and Gain of Functional Amino Acid Residues Is a Common Mechanism Causing Human Inherited Disease.

PubMed

Lugo-Martinez, Jose; Pejaver, Vikas; Pagel, Kymberleigh A; Jain, Shantanu; Mort, Matthew; Cooper, David N; Mooney, Sean D; Radivojac, Predrag

2016-08-01

Elucidating the precise molecular events altered by disease-causing genetic variants represents a major challenge in translational bioinformatics. To this end, many studies have investigated the structural and functional impact of amino acid substitutions. Most of these studies were however limited in scope to either individual molecular functions or were concerned with functional effects (e.g. deleterious vs. neutral) without specifically considering possible molecular alterations. The recent growth of structural, molecular and genetic data presents an opportunity for more comprehensive studies to consider the structural environment of a residue of interest, to hypothesize specific molecular effects of sequence variants and to statistically associate these effects with genetic disease. In this study, we analyzed data sets of disease-causing and putatively neutral human variants mapped to protein 3D structures as part of a systematic study of the loss and gain of various types of functional attribute potentially underlying pathogenic molecular alterations. We first propose a formal model to assess probabilistically function-impacting variants. We then develop an array of structure-based functional residue predictors, evaluate their performance, and use them to quantify the impact of disease-causing amino acid substitutions on catalytic activity, metal binding, macromolecular binding, ligand binding, allosteric regulation and post-translational modifications. We show that our methodology generates actionable biological hypotheses for up to 41% of disease-causing genetic variants mapped to protein structures suggesting that it can be reliably used to guide experimental validation. Our results suggest that a significant fraction of disease-causing human variants mapping to protein structures are function-altering both in the presence and absence of stability disruption.

Transition of the morbidity and mortality profile in a municipality in the interior of the Brazilian Amazon.

PubMed

Vieira, Gabriel de Deus; Basano, Sergio de Almeida; Camargo, Luís Marcelo Aranha

2016-01-01

The morbidity and mortality profile in a given region reflects its quality of life and provides tools for improving public health policies in that region. A cross-sectional epidemiological study was performed using secondary mortality data collected from the Monte Negro municipality of the Brazilian Western Amazon from 2000 to 2011. These data were compared with data from similar municipalities in other Brazilian macro-regions. Data were obtained through the Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde (DATASUS) information system. The number of deaths reported over the study period was 606. The most common cause of death was external causes of morbidity and mortality [International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 chapter 20], followed by diseases of the circulatory system (ICD-10 chapter 9). Among the causes of death according to age group, infectious and parasitic diseases were the most common for 2- to 9-year-old children; external causes of disease were the most prevalent for 10- to 59-year-old people; and circulatory diseases prevailed in individuals over 60 years of age. Eleven percent of deaths were due to unknown causes. These results point to a fragility in the public policies for prevention and awareness of this problem. Infectious and parasitic diseases contribute only 4.5% of deaths, but had the third highest Disability-Adjusted Life Year score (1,190 days). Improving support to the Estratégia Saúde da Família (Family Health Strategy) program and implementing a death verification service would significantly aid in reducing the occurrence of non-transmissible chronic diseases and clarifying unknown causes of death.

Relationships of suicide ideation with cause-specific mortality in a longitudinal study of South Koreans.

PubMed

Khang, Young-Ho; Kim, Hye-Ryun; Cho, Seong-Jin

2010-10-01

Using 7-year mortality follow-up data (n = 341) from the 1998 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys of South Korean individuals (N = 5,414), the authors found that survey participants with suicide ideation were at increased risk of suicide mortality during the follow-up period compared with those without suicide ideation. The cause-specific analyses showed that, in men, suicide ideation was significantly associated with mortality due to cardiovascular disease, external causes, and other causes. However, there was no significant association between suicide ideation and cause-specific mortality in women. The relationship between suicide ideation and cause-specific mortality in men was not fully explained by baseline health status, socioeconomic status, health behavior, or psychosocial factors.

Retrospective analysis of causes of death in mountain pygmy-possums (Burramys parvus) at Healesville Sanctuary, Victoria, Australia.

PubMed

Scheelings, T F; Dobson, E C

2015-11-01

Identification and characterisation of deaths is important for the veterinary management of both wild and captive animals. It is especially important as a tool for monitoring health and disease within populations of endangered species for which little information on morbidity and mortality is known. Investigations into the causes of death and other important necropsy findings were made in a captive population of the critically endangered mountain pygmy-possum (Burramys parvus). Necropsy records from January 2000-December 2013 were reviewed for all possums that had lived and died at Healesville Sanctuary (n = 48). The average age of death of possums in this population was 4.7 years. The most common histological change in mountain pygmy-possums was varying degrees of chronic progressive kidney disease (n = 17). Of these cases, eight animals (47%) had histological changes suggesting the kidney disease was the likely cause of death. Other causes of death included neoplasia (n = 5), necrotising pancreatitis (n = 4), pneumonia (n = 2), reproductive disease (n = 2) and trauma (n = 2). No cause of death was able to be identified in 33.3% (n = 16) of cases. Hepatic lipidosis (n = 5), pneumonia (n = 2) and degenerative joint disease (n = 2) were the most common comorbidities found. Progressive renal disease, often with secondary metastatic mineralisation, appears to be a significant cause of mortality in captive mountain pygmy-possums and further investigation into its pathophysiology, antemortem diagnosis and treatment is warranted. © 2015 Australian Veterinary Association.

CMV in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

PubMed Central

de la Cámara, Rafael

2016-01-01

Due to its negative impact on the outcome of stem cell transplant (SCT) and solid organ transplant patients (SOT) CMV has been called “the troll of transplantation”. One of the greatest advances in the management of SCT has been the introduction of the preemptive strategy. Since its introduction, the incidence of the viremia, as expected, remains unchanged but there has been a marked decline in the incidence of early CMV disease. However, in spite of the advances in prevention of CMV disease, CMV is still today an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Late CMV disease is still occurring in a significant proportion of patients and the so-called indirect effects of CMV are causing significant morbidity and mortality. Fortunately there have been several advances in the development of new antivirals, adoptive immunotherapy and DNA-CMV vaccines that might transform the management of CMV in the near future. PMID:27413524

Genome-wide association and linkage identify modifier loci of lung disease severity in cystic fibrosis at 11p13 and 20q13.2

PubMed Central

Wright, Fred A.; Strug, Lisa J.; Doshi, Vishal K.; Commander, Clayton W.; Blackman, Scott M.; Sun, Lei; Berthiaume, Yves; Cutler, David; Cojocaru, Andreea; Collaco, J. Michael; Corey, Mary; Dorfman, Ruslan; Goddard, Katrina; Green, Deanna; Kent, Jack W.; Lange, Ethan M.; Lee, Seunggeun; Li, Weili; Luo, Jingchun; Mayhew, Gregory M.; Naughton, Kathleen M.; Pace, Rhonda G.; Paré, Peter; Rommens, Johanna M.; Sandford, Andrew; Stonebraker, Jaclyn R.; Sun, Wei; Taylor, Chelsea; Vanscoy, Lori L.; Zou, Fei; Blangero, John; Zielenski, Julian; O’Neal, Wanda K.; Drumm, Mitchell L.; Durie, Peter R.; Knowles, Michael R.; Cutting, Garry R.

2012-01-01

A combined genome-wide association and linkage study was used to identify loci causing variation in CF lung disease severity. A significant association (P=3. 34 × 10-8) near EHF and APIP (chr11p13) was identified in F508del homozygotes (n=1,978). The association replicated in F508del homozygotes (P=0.006) from a separate family-based study (n=557), with P=1.49 × 10-9 for the three-study joint meta-analysis. Linkage analysis of 486 sibling pairs from the family-based study identified a significant QTL on chromosome 20q13.2 (LOD=5.03). Our findings provide insight into the causes of variation in lung disease severity in CF and suggest new therapeutic targets for this life-limiting disorder. PMID:21602797

Vaccination of healthcare workers: A review

PubMed Central

Haviari, Skerdi; Bénet, Thomas; Saadatian-Elahi, Mitra; André, Philippe; Loulergue, Pierre; Vanhems, Philippe

2015-01-01

Vaccine-preventable diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. As new vaccines are proving to be effective and as the incidence of some infections decreases, vaccination practices are changing. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to and play a role in nosocomial transmission, which makes them an important target group for vaccination. Most vaccine-preventable diseases still carry a significant risk of resurgence and have caused outbreaks in recent years. While many professional societies favor vaccination of HCWs as well as the general population, recommendations differ from country to country. In turn, vaccination coverage varies widely for each microorganism and for each country, making hospitals and clinics vulnerable to outbreaks. Vaccine mandates and non-mandatory strategies are the subject of ongoing research and controversies. Optimal approaches to increase coverage and turn the healthcare workforce into an efficient barrier against infectious diseases are still being debated. PMID:26291642

Biosecurity practices and causes of enteritis on Ontario meat rabbit farms

PubMed Central

Kylie, Jennifer; Brash, Marina; Whiteman, Ashley; Tapscott, Brian; Slavic, Durda; Weese, J. Scott; Turner, Patricia V.

2017-01-01

Infectious enterocolitis is a significant cause of mortality in meat rabbits. Disease risk is enhanced by intensive rearing practices and poor on-farm biosecurity. This investigation was undertaken in farmed meat rabbits during an Ontario-wide outbreak of enteritis with high mortality to determine the prevalence of causative agents. A survey evaluating on-farm biosecurity practices was also conducted to identify potential means of pathogen contamination and zoonotic risks. Gross and microscopic pathology evaluations combined with microbiologic testing were conducted on 95 rabbits over spring and winter months. Escherichia coli and Clostridium spiroforme were most commonly associated with enteritis in rabbits regardless of age or season and lesions were significantly more severe in mature does (P < 0.0001). The survey results demonstrated a lack of consistent on-farm biosecurity practices. The infectious nature of enteric disease of rabbits combined with poor biosecurity practices may contribute to disease transmission within and between farms. PMID:28588327

Biosecurity practices and causes of enteritis on Ontario meat rabbit farms.

PubMed

Kylie, Jennifer; Brash, Marina; Whiteman, Ashley; Tapscott, Brian; Slavic, Durda; Weese, J Scott; Turner, Patricia V

2017-06-01

Infectious enterocolitis is a significant cause of mortality in meat rabbits. Disease risk is enhanced by intensive rearing practices and poor on-farm biosecurity. This investigation was undertaken in farmed meat rabbits during an Ontario-wide outbreak of enteritis with high mortality to determine the prevalence of causative agents. A survey evaluating on-farm biosecurity practices was also conducted to identify potential means of pathogen contamination and zoonotic risks. Gross and microscopic pathology evaluations combined with microbiologic testing were conducted on 95 rabbits over spring and winter months. Escherichia coli and Clostridium spiroforme were most commonly associated with enteritis in rabbits regardless of age or season and lesions were significantly more severe in mature does ( P < 0.0001). The survey results demonstrated a lack of consistent on-farm biosecurity practices. The infectious nature of enteric disease of rabbits combined with poor biosecurity practices may contribute to disease transmission within and between farms.

Lost life years due to premature mortality caused by diseases of the respiratory system.

PubMed

Maniecka-Bryła, Irena; Paciej-Gołębiowska, Paulina; Dziankowska-Zaborszczyk, Elżbieta; Bryła, Marek

2018-06-04

In Poland, as in most other European countries, diseases of the respiratory system are the 4th leading cause of mortality; they are responsible for about 8% of all deaths in the European Union (EU) annually. To assess the socio-economic aspects of mortality, it has become increasingly common to apply potential measures rather than conventionally used ratios. The aim of this study was to analyze years of life lost due to premature deaths caused by diseases of the respiratory system in Poland from 1999 to 2013. The study was based on a dataset of 5,606,516 records, obtained from the death certificates of Polish residents who died between 1999 and 2013. The information on deaths caused by diseases of the respiratory system, i.e., coded as J00-J99 according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision (ICD-10), was analyzed. The Standard Expected Years of Life Lost (SEYLL) indicator was used in the study. In the years 1999-2013, the Polish population suffered 280,519 deaths caused by diseases of the respiratory system (4.69% of all deaths). In the period analyzed, a gradual decrease in the standardized death rate was observed - from 46.31 per 100,000 inhabitants in 1999 to 41.02 in 2013. The dominant causes of death were influenza and pneumonia (J09-J18) and chronic lower respiratory diseases (J40-J47). Diseases of the respiratory system were the cause of 4,474,548.92 lost life years. The Standard Expected Years of Life Lost per person (SEYLLp) was 104.72 per 10,000 males and 52.85 per 10,000 females. The Standard Expected Years of Life Lost per death (SEYLLd) for people who died due to diseases of the respiratory system was 17.54 years of life on average for men and 13.65 years on average for women. The use of the SEYLL indicator provided significant information on premature mortality due to diseases of the respiratory system, indicating the fact that they play a large role in the health status of the Polish population.

Associations of marital status with mortality from all causes and mortality from cardiovascular disease in Japanese haemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Tanno, Kozo; Ohsawa, Masaki; Itai, Kazuyoshi; Kato, Karen; Turin, Tanvir Chowdhury; Onoda, Toshiyuki; Sakata, Kiyomi; Okayama, Akira; Fujioka, Tomoaki

2013-04-01

Marital status is an important social factor associated with increased mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all causes. However, there has been no study on the association of marital status with mortality in haemodialysis patients. We analysed data from a 5-year prospective cohort study of 1064 Japanese haemodialysis patients aged 30 years or older. Marital status was classified into three groups: married, single and divorced/widowed. Cox's regression was used to estimate multivariate hazard ratios (HRs) [95% confidence intervals (CIs)] for all-cause mortality and CVD mortality according to marital status after adjusting for age, sex, duration of haemodialysis, cause of renal failure, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, albumin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, co-morbid conditions, smoking, alcohol consumption, education levels and job status. Single patients had higher risks than married patients for mortality from all causes (HR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.06-2.16) and mortality from CVD (HR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.03-2.76), and divorced/widowed patients had a higher risk than married patients for mortality from CVD (HR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.15-2.60). After stratification by age, single patients aged 30-59 years had significantly higher risks for all-cause mortality and CVD mortality. The findings suggest that single status is a significant predictor for all-cause mortality and CVD mortality and that divorced/widowed status is a significant predictor for CVD mortality in haemodialysis patients.

Global Burden of Skin Disease: Inequities and Innovations.

PubMed

Seth, Divya; Cheldize, Khatiya; Brown, Danielle; Freeman, Esther F

2017-09-01

We review the current understanding of the burden of dermatological disease through the lens of the Global Burden of Disease project, evaluate the impact of skin disease on quality of life in a global context, explore socioeconomic implications, and finally summarize interventions towards improving quality of dermatologic care in resource-poor settings. The Global Burden of Disease project has shown that skin diseases continue to be the 4 th leading cause of nonfatal disease burden world-wide. However, research efforts and funding do not match with the relative disability of skin diseases. International and national efforts, such as the WHO List of Essential Medicines, are critical towards reducing the socioeconomic burden of skin diseases and increasing access to care. Recent innovations such as teledermatology, point-of-care diagnostic tools, and task-shifting help to provide dermatological care to underserved regions in a cost-effective manner. Skin diseases cause significant non-fatal disability worldwide, especially in resource-poor regions. Greater impetus to study the burden of skin disease in low resource settings and policy efforts towards delivering high quality care are essential in improving the burden of skin diseases.

Severity of Disease in Humanized Mice Infected With Ebola Virus or Reston Virus Is Associated With Magnitude of Early Viral Replication in Liver.

PubMed

Spengler, Jessica R; Saturday, Greg; Lavender, Kerry J; Martellaro, Cynthia; Keck, James G; Nichol, Stuart T; Spiropoulou, Christina F; Feldmann, Heinz; Prescott, Joseph

2017-12-27

Both Ebola virus (EBOV) and Reston virus (RESTV) cause disease in nonhuman primates, yet only EBOV causes disease in humans. To investigate differences in viral pathogenicity, humanized mice (hu-NSG-SGM3) were inoculated with EBOV or RESTV. Consistent with differences in disease in human infection, pronounced weight loss and markers of hepatic damage and disease were observed exclusively in EBOV-infected mice. These abnormalities were associated with significantly higher EBOV replication in the liver but not in the spleen, suggesting that in this model, efficiency of viral replication in select tissues early in infection may contribute to differences in viral pathogenicity. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press for the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Revascularization to preserve renal function in patients with atherosclerotic renovascular disease.

PubMed

Novick, A C; Textor, S C; Bodie, B; Khauli, R B

1984-08-01

There are a significant number of patients with advanced atherosclerotic renovascular disease whose blood pressure is well controlled with medical therapy but in whom such vascular disease poses a grave risk to overall renal function. This article reviews current concepts regarding screening, evaluation, and selection of patients with this disease for revascularization to preserve renal function. The underlying rationale for this approach is an increasing awareness that, in selected patients, atherosclerotic renovascular disease represents a surgically correctable cause of progressive renal failure.

Upper respiratory tract disease in captive orangutans (Pongo sp.): prevalence in 20 European zoos and predisposing factors.

PubMed

Zimmermann, N; Pirovino, M; Zingg, R; Clauss, M; Kaup, F J; Heistermann, M; Hatt, J M; Steinmetz, H W

2011-12-01

Upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) is a significant cause of morbidity in captive orangutans (Pongo abelii, Pongo pygmaeus), and the pathogenesis is often unknown.  The prevalence of respiratory disease in captive European orangutans (201 animals; 20 zoos) and possible predisposing factors were investigated. Bornean orangutans (P. pygmaeus) showed chronic respiratory signs significantly more often (13.8%) than Sumatran (P. abelii; 3.6%), and males (15.8%) were more often afflicted than females (3.9%). Hand-reared animals (21%) developed air sacculitis more often than parent-reared animals (5%). Diseased animals were more often genetically related to animals with respiratory diseases (93%) than to healthy animals (54%). None of the environmental conditions investigated had a significant effect on disease prevalence. Results suggest a higher importance of individual factors for the development of URTD than environmental conditions. Bornean, male and hand-reared orangutans and animals related to diseased animals need increased medical surveillance for early detection of respiratory disease. © 2011 University of Zurich.

Development of botanical-based biopesticides and repellents against biting flies on livestock animals

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Biting flies are important insect pests causing millions of dollars in losses to the livestock industry. The attack by biting flies causes significant losses in animal production and potential food contamination and disease transmission. This presentation reports our recent findings on the developme...

Image processing methods for quantitatively detecting soybean rust from multispectral images

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soybean rust, caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi, is one of the most destructive diseases for soybean production. It often causes significant yield loss and may rapidly spread from field to field through airborne urediniospores. In order to implement timely fungicide treatments for the most effective c...

Colletotrichum incanum sp. nov., a curved-conidial species causing soybean anthracnose in USA

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soybean anthracnose is caused by a number of species of Colletotrichum that as a group represent an important disease that results in significant economic losses. In the present study, Colletotrichum species were isolated from soybean petioles and stems with anthracnose symptoms from soybean fields ...

Evaluation of Musa spp. hybrids for resistance to black Sigatoka, caused by Mycosphaerella fijiensis Morelet

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In Puerto Rico, bananas and plantains are important agricultural commodities; their combined production totaled 133,500 tons in 2008. Black and yellow Sigatoka leaf spot diseases, caused by Mycosphaerella fijiensis and M. musicola respectively, are responsible for significant losses of these crops ...

[Gender and age dependent mortality from nervous diseases in Azerbaijan].

PubMed

Mamedbeyli, A K

2015-01-01

To assess age- and sex-related changes in the mortality from nervous diseases at the population level. Methods of descriptive statistics and analysis of qualitative traits were applied. We analyzed 13580 medical certificates of cause of death from nervous diseases (all classes of ICD-10). The mortality rate varied with age, the main trend of which was the dynamic growth. Age-specific mortality rates for men and women differed from each other: in most ages (20-24, 30-34, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 65-69), the likelihood of mortality was higher in men, and at the age of 5-9, 15-19, 60-64, 70 and more years in women. After the standardization of gender differences by age, the mortality risk of nervous illnesses disappeared (146.74 and 144.16 per 100 thousand for men and women, respectively).  There were significant differences in the proportion of nervous diseases of all-cause mortality among the population in the groups stratified by age and sex. It is believed that situational factors is a cause of actual prevailing of gender age- and sex-related mortality risks. Gender features of age-related risk of mortality from nervous diseases are characterized by the multidirectional dynamics of likelihood of mortality and specific weight of nervous diseases among all causes of mortality. The actual gender features of age-related risk of mortality from nervous diseases are generally caused by situational factors (different age structure and unequal level of the general mortality among male and female population) which disappear after standardization.

Modification of Susceptible and Toxic Herbs on Grassland Disease.

PubMed

Yao, Xiang; Fan, Yubing; Chai, Qing; Johnson, Richard D; Nan, Zhibiao; Li, Chunjie

2016-09-16

Recent research shows that continuous overgrazing not only causes grassland biodiversity to decline, but also causes light fungal disease. Achnatherum inebrians is susceptible to fungal diseases and increases in prevalence during over grazing due its toxicity to livestock. This study aimed to examine the effects of A. inebrians on biological control organisms and levels of plant diseases in overgrazed grasslands in northwestern China. The results showed that A. inebrians plants were seriously infected by fungal diseases and that this led to a high incidence of the mycoparasitic species Ampelomyces quisqualis and Sphaerellopsis filum. In addition, the fungivore, Aleocharinae, was found only in the soil growing A. inebrians rather than in the overgrazed area without A. inebrians. Overall, in an overgrazed grassland fenced for one year, disease levels in blocks without A. inebrians were significantly higher than those in blocks with A. inebrians. Our findings indicated that the disease susceptible, toxic A. inebrians can help control plant disease levels in overgrazed grasslands.

Modification of Susceptible and Toxic Herbs on Grassland Disease

PubMed Central

Yao, Xiang; Fan, Yubing; Chai, Qing; Johnson, Richard D.; Nan, Zhibiao; Li, Chunjie

2016-01-01

Recent research shows that continuous overgrazing not only causes grassland biodiversity to decline, but also causes light fungal disease. Achnatherum inebrians is susceptible to fungal diseases and increases in prevalence during over grazing due its toxicity to livestock. This study aimed to examine the effects of A. inebrians on biological control organisms and levels of plant diseases in overgrazed grasslands in northwestern China. The results showed that A. inebrians plants were seriously infected by fungal diseases and that this led to a high incidence of the mycoparasitic species Ampelomyces quisqualis and Sphaerellopsis filum. In addition, the fungivore, Aleocharinae, was found only in the soil growing A. inebrians rather than in the overgrazed area without A. inebrians. Overall, in an overgrazed grassland fenced for one year, disease levels in blocks without A. inebrians were significantly higher than those in blocks with A. inebrians. Our findings indicated that the disease susceptible, toxic A. inebrians can help control plant disease levels in overgrazed grasslands. PMID:27633060

Genetic Architecture of Charcoal Rot (Macrophomina phaseolina) Resistance in Soybean Revealed Using a Diverse Panel

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Charcoal rot disease caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is responsible for significant yield losses in soybean production. Among the methodologies available for controlling this disease, breeding for resistance is the most promising. Progress in breeding efforts has been slow due to the insufficient ...

Evaluation of a real-time PCR assay for pseudorabies virus surveillance purposes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is the cause of Aujeszky’s disease, a significant economic disease for the swine industry worldwide that is also known as pseudorabies. Clinical signs are related to respiratory and nervous systems, which are the preferred site for PRV replication. Also, PRV infection can ca...

Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae: a threat to global oat production

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae causes crown rust disease in cultivated and wild oat. The significant yield losses inflicted by this pathogen makes crown rust the most devastating disease in the oat industry. P. coronata f. sp. avenae is a basidiomycete fungus with an obligate biotrophic lifestyle a...

Yogurt, immune function and infectious disease: can yogurt be used to protect the elderly against infections?

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Systemic low-grade inflammation and immunosenescence occurs with aging, predisposing the elderly to myriad risk factors for infectious and chronic disease. Respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumonia are a leading cause of mortality in the elderly, and therefore of significant public hea...

Further characerization of the broad-spectrum anthraconse resistance in Andea common bean Amendoim Cavalo

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Anthracnose is one of the most significant diseases of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in temperate and subtropical bean production areas of the world. This disease is caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, known for its extensive virulence diversity. Dozens of races of this pathogen have been ch...

tir- and stx- positive Escherichia coli in stream waters in a metropolitan area

Treesearch

James A. Higgins; Kenneth T. Belt; Jeffrey S. Karns; Jonathan Russell-Anelli; Daniel R. Shelton

2005-01-01

Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli, which may include the enteropathogenic E. coli and the enterohemorrhagic E. coli, are a significant cause of diarrheal disease among infants and children in both developing and developed areas. Disease outbreaks related to freshwater exposure have been documented, but the presence...

Vibrio Zinc-Metalloprotease Causes Photoinactivation of Coral Endosymbionts and Coral Tissue Lesions

PubMed Central

Sussman, Meir; Mieog, Jos C.; Doyle, Jason; Victor, Steven; Willis, Bette L.; Bourne, David G.

2009-01-01

Background Coral diseases are emerging as a serious threat to coral reefs worldwide. Of nine coral infectious diseases, whose pathogens have been characterized, six are caused by agents from the family Vibrionacae, raising questions as to their origin and role in coral disease aetiology. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we report on a Vibrio zinc-metalloprotease causing rapid photoinactivation of susceptible Symbiodinium endosymbionts followed by lesions in coral tissue. Symbiodinium photosystem II inactivation was diagnosed by an imaging pulse amplitude modulation fluorometer in two bioassays, performed by exposing Symbiodinium cells and coral juveniles to non-inhibited and EDTA-inhibited supernatants derived from coral white syndrome pathogens. Conclusion/Significance These findings demonstrate a common virulence factor from four phylogenetically related coral pathogens, suggesting that zinc-metalloproteases may play an important role in Vibrio pathogenicity in scleractinian corals. PMID:19225559

[Organic and psychogenic causes of psychopathology: co-construction between the brain and culture].

PubMed

Kanba, Shigenobu

2014-01-01

Rather than attempting to reduce findings to fit a particular standard of explanation, understanding into mental diseases should abandon the dichotomy between organic and psychogenic causes and instead investigate what can be explained at each level from genes, materials, cells and circuits across the spheres of psychology, society and culture, and focus on how findings can be clinically applied. Using this "pluralistic" approach, the author attempts herein to deepen understanding of mental disorders as diseases of mentality. The author depicts the process and significance of mental disorders and introduces the concept of "cultural affordance" while touching on a pathogenic framework comprising both organic and psychogenic causes, namely "culture" and "the brain". This approach has been little considered to date during psychopathological research when attempting to understand disease state and implement clinical application.

Update on chancroid: an important cause of genital ulcer disease.

PubMed

Langley, C

1996-08-01

Chancroid is a major cause of genital ulcer disease worldwide, and occurred at epidemic rates in the United States in the late 1980s. Though the recent epidemic in the U.S. appears to be waning, a number of areas continue to report significant numbers of cases. Chancroid is a particular concern, because, like other diseases that cause genital ulceration, it is associated with an increased risk for transmission or acquisition of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Recent studies have advanced the understanding of chancroid epidemiology, and new diagnostic tests may improve the ability to recognize and appropriately treat chancroid. Increased awareness of chancroid, with appropriate treatment for suspected lesions, along with public health efforts to implement prevention in high-risk populations, will be critical to prevent ongoing transmission of chancroid, and potentially ongoing transmission of HIV.

Three-dimensional, virtual reality vestibular rehabilitation for chronic imbalance problem caused by Ménière's disease: a pilot study^.

PubMed

Hsu, Su-Yi; Fang, Te-Yung; Yeh, Shih-Ching; Su, Mu-Chun; Wang, Pa-Chun; Wang, Victoria Y

2017-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a three-dimensional, virtual reality system for vestibular rehabilitation in patients with intractable Ménière's disease and chronic vestibular dysfunction. We included 70 patients (36 for study, 34 as control) with a chronic imbalance problem caused by uncompensated Ménière's disease. The virtual reality vestibular rehabilitation comprised four training tasks (modified Cawthorne-Cooksey exercises: eye, head, extension, and coordination exercises) performed in six training sessions (in 4 weeks). Measurements of the task scores and balance parameters obtained at the baseline and after final training sessions were compared. A significant improvement was observed in extension and coordination scores. Patients in the early stages of Ménière's disease had a significantly greater improvement in the center of gravity sway and trajectory excursion in the mediolateral direction than did patients in the late stages of Ménière's disease. Mild functional disability attributable to Ménière's disease was a predictor of improvement in the statokinesigram and maximum trajectory excursion in the anteroposterior direction after rehabilitation. The control group showed no significant improvement in almost all parameters. Virtual reality vestibular rehabilitation may be useful in patients with Ménière's disease, particular those in the early stages or having mild functional disability. Implication for rehabilitation Chronic imbalance caused by uncompensated Ménière's disease is an indication for vestibular rehabilitation. The interactive virtual reality video game, when integrated into vestibular rehabilitation exercise protocol, may assist patients who have mild disability Ménière's disease and who cannot benefit from treatment with drugs or surgery. The initial data from this study support the applicability of three-dimensional virtual reality technology in vestibular rehabilitation programs. The technology gives professionals a new tool to guide patients for vestibular rehabilitation exercises through three-dimensional virtual reality video game playing. The virtual reality vestibular exercise game can provide patients a step-wise, interactive, dynamic, three-dimensional, and interesting rehabilitation environment.

Economic losses and burden of disease by medical conditions in Norway.

PubMed

Kinge, Jonas Minet; Sælensminde, Kjartan; Dieleman, Joseph; Vollset, Stein Emil; Norheim, Ole Frithjof

2017-06-01

We explore the correlation between disease specific estimates of economic losses and the burden of disease. This is based on data for Norway in 2013 from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) project and the Norwegian Directorate of Health. The diagnostic categories were equivalent to the ICD-10 chapters. Mental disorders topped the list of the costliest conditions in Norway in 2013, and musculoskeletal disorders caused the highest production loss, while neoplasms caused the greatest burden in terms of DALYs. There was a positive and significant association between economic losses and burden of disease. Neoplasms, circulatory diseases, mental and musculoskeletal disorders all contributed to large health care expenditures. Non-fatal conditions with a high prevalence in working populations, like musculoskeletal and mental disorders, caused the largest production loss, while fatal conditions such as neoplasms and circulatory disease did not, since they occur mostly at old age. The magnitude of the production loss varied with the estimation method. The estimations presented in this study did not include reductions in future consumption, by net-recipients, due to premature deaths. Non-fatal diseases are thus even more burdensome, relative to fatal diseases, than the production loss in this study suggests. Hence, ignoring production losses may underestimate the economic losses from chronic diseases in countries with an epidemiological profile similar to Norway. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hb Dartmouth (HBA2: c.200T>C): An α2-Globin Gene Associated with Hb H Disease in One Homozygous Patient.

PubMed

Farashi, Samaneh; Faramarzi Garous, Negin; Ashki, Mehri; Vakili, Shadi; Zeinali, Fatemah; Imanian, Hashem; Azarkeivan, Azita; Najmabadi, Hossein

2015-01-01

Hb H (β4) disease is caused by deletion or inactivation of three out of four α-globin genes. A high incidence of Hb H disease has been reported all over the world. There is a wide spectrum of phenotypic presentations, from clinically asymptomatic to having significant hepatosplenomegaly and requiring occasional or even regular blood transfusions, even more severe anemia, Hb Bart's (γ4) hydrops fetalis syndrome that can cause death in the affected fetuses late in gestation. We here present a case who was diagnosed with Hb H disease that represents a new genotype for this hereditary disorder. Hb Dartmouth is a variant caused by a missense mutation at codon 66 of the α2-globin gene (HBA2: c.200T>C), resulting in the substitution of leucine by proline. We here emphasize the importance of this point mutation involving Hb H disease and also the necessity for prenatal diagnosis (PND) for those who carry this point mutation in the heterozygous state.

The Triple Functions of D2 Silencing in Treatment of Periapical Disease.

PubMed

Pan, Jie; Wang, Jue; Hao, Liang; Zhu, Guochun; Nguyen, Diep N; Li, Qian; Liu, Yuehua; Zhao, Zhihe; Li, Yi-Ping; Chen, Wei

2017-02-01

Dental caries is the most widespread chronic infectious disease. Inflammation in pulp tissues caused by dental caries will lead to periapical granulomas, bone erosion, loss of the tooth, and severe pain. Despite numerous efforts in recent studies to develop effective treatments for dental caries, the need for a potent therapy is still urgent. In this study, we applied a gene-based therapy approach by administering recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Atp6v0d2 (d2) RNA interference knockdown of d2 gene expression to prevent periapical bone loss and suppress periapical inflammation simultaneously. The results showed that d2 depletion is simultaneously capable of reducing bone resorption with 75% protection through reducing osteoclasts, enhancing bone formation by increasing osterix expression, and inhibiting inflammation by decreasing T-cell infiltration. Notably, AAV-mediated gene therapy of d2 knockdown significantly reduced proinflammatory cytokine expression, including tumor necrosis factor α, interferon-γ, interleukin-1α, and interleukin 6 levels in periapical diseases caused by bacterial infection. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that d2 knockdown reduced osteoclast-specific functional genes (ie, Acp5 and Ctsk) and increased osteoblast marker genes (ie, Osx and Opg) in periapical tissues. Collectively, our results showed that AAV-mediated d2 depletion in the periapical lesion area can prevent the progression of endodontic disease and bone erosion while significantly reducing the inflammatory over-response. These findings show that the depletion of d2 simultaneously reduces bone resorption, enhances bone formation, and inhibits inflammation caused by periapical diseases and provide significant insights into the potential effectiveness of AAV-sh-d2-mediated d2 silencing gene therapy as a major endodontic treatment. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Circulating AIM as an Indicator of Liver Damage and Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Humans

PubMed Central

Yamazaki, Tomoko; Mori, Mayumi; Arai, Satoko; Tateishi, Ryosuke; Abe, Masanori; Ban, Mihoko; Nishijima, Akemi; Maeda, Maki; Asano, Takeharu; Kai, Toshihiro; Izumino, Kiyohiro; Takahashi, Jun; Aoyama, Kayo; Harada, Sei; Takebayashi, Toru; Gunji, Toshiaki; Ohnishi, Shin; Seto, Shinji; Yoshida, Yukio; Hiasa, Yoichi; Koike, Kazuhiko; Yamamura, Ken-ichi; Inoue, Ken-ichiro; Miyazaki, Toru

2014-01-01

Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the fifth most common cancer type and the third highest cause of cancer death worldwide, develops in different types of liver injuries, and is mostly associated with cirrhosis. However, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease often causes HCC with less fibrosis, and the number of patients with this disease is rapidly increasing. The high mortality rate and the pathological complexity of liver diseases and HCC require blood biomarkers that accurately reflect the state of liver damage and presence of HCC. Methods and Findings Here we demonstrate that a circulating protein, apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM) may meet this requirement. A large-scale analysis of healthy individuals across a wide age range revealed a mean blood AIM of 4.99±1.8 µg/ml in men and 6.06±2.1 µg/ml in women. AIM levels were significantly augmented in the younger generation (20s–40s), particularly in women. Interestingly, AIM levels were markedly higher in patients with advanced liver damage, regardless of disease type, and correlated significantly with multiple parameters representing liver function. In mice, AIM levels increased in response to carbon tetrachloride, confirming that the high AIM observed in humans is the result of liver damage. In addition, carbon tetrachloride caused comparable states of liver damage in AIM-deficient and wild-type mice, indicating no influence of AIM levels on liver injury progression. Intriguingly, certain combinations of AIM indexes normalized to liver marker score significantly distinguished HCC patients from non-HCC patients and thus could be applicable for HCC diagnosis. Conclusion AIM potently reveals both liver damage and HCC. Thus, our results may provide the basis for novel diagnostic strategies for this widespread and fatal disease. PMID:25302503

Mortality of a cohort of workers in the styrene-butadiene polymer manufacturing industry (1943-1982).

PubMed Central

Matanoski, G M; Santos-Burgoa, C; Schwartz, L

1990-01-01

A cohort of 12,110 male workers employed 1 or more years in eight styrene-butadiene polymer (SBR) manufacturing plants in the United States and Canada has been followed for mortality over a 40-year period, 1943 to 1982. The all-cause mortality of these workers was low [standardized mortality ratio (SMR) = 0.81] compared to that of the general population. However, some specific sites of cancers had SMRs that exceeded 1.00. These sites were then examined by major work divisions. The sites of interest included leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in whites. The SMRs for cancers of the digestive tract were higher than expected, especially esophageal cancer in whites and stomach cancer in blacks. The SMR for arteriosclerotic heart disease in black workers was significantly higher than would be expected based on general population rates. Employees were assigned to a work area based on job longest held. The SMRs for specific diseases differed by work area. Production workers showed increased SMRs for hematologic neoplasms and maintenance workers, for digestive cancers. A significant excess SMR for arteriosclerotic heart disease occurred only in black maintenance workers, although excess mortality from this disease occurred in blacks regardless of where they worked the longest. A significant excess SMR for rheumatic heart disease was associated with work in the combined, all-other work areas. For many causes of death, there were significant deficits in the SMRs. PMID:2401250

Microbiome in the pathogenesis of cystic fibrosis and lung transplant-related disease.

PubMed

Cribbs, Sushma K; Beck, James M

2017-01-01

Significant advances in culture-independent methods have expanded our knowledge about the diversity of the lung microbial environment. Complex microorganisms and microbial communities can now be identified in the distal airways in a variety of respiratory diseases, including cystic fibrosis (CF) and the posttransplantation lung. Although there are significant methodologic concerns about sampling the lung microbiome, several studies have now shown that the microbiome of the lower respiratory tract is distinct from the upper airway. CF is a disease characterized by chronic airway infections that lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Traditional culture-dependent methods have identified a select group of pathogens that cause exacerbations in CF, but studies using bacterial 16S rRNA gene-based microarrays have shown that the CF microbiome is an intricate and dynamic bacterial ecosystem, which influences both host immune health and disease pathogenesis. These microbial communities can shift with external influences, including antibiotic exposure. In addition, there have been a number of studies suggesting a link between the gut microbiome and respiratory health in CF. Compared with CF, there is significantly less knowledge about the microbiome of the transplanted lung. Risk factors for bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, one of the leading causes of death, include microbial infections. Lung transplant patients have a unique lung microbiome that is different than the pretransplanted microbiome and changes with time. Understanding the host-pathogen interactions in these diseases may suggest targeted therapies and improve long-term survival in these patients. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Causes and predictive factors of mortality in a cohort of patients with hepatitis C virus-related cryoglobulinemic vasculitis treated with antiviral therapy.

PubMed

Landau, Dan-Avi; Scerra, Samy; Sene, Damien; Resche-Rigon, Mathieu; Saadoun, David; Cacoub, Patrice

2010-03-01

Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) vasculitis is an autoimmune disorder with significant morbidity and mortality. Renal involvement was associated with an increased mortality, and was the most common cause of death; these data were obtained before effective antiviral treatment was available. We studied causes of death and predictive factors in patients with HCV-associated MC vasculitis treated with antivirals. Case histories of 85 patients with HCV-associated MC vasculitis treated in a single center between 1990 and 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. Prognostic factors affecting mortality were studied by comparing 23 patients who died with 62 survivors, using the Cox model regression analysis. The most common cause of death was infection, accounting for 34.7%, followed by endstage liver disease in 30.4% (including 4 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma), and cardiovascular disease in 17.4% of patients. Endstage renal disease accounted for only 8.7% of deaths, as did central nervous system vasculitis and nonhepatic malignancy. Increased mortality was strongly associated with immunosuppressive treatment [hazard ratio (HR) 6.51, 95% CI 2.75-15.37], cutaneous ulcers (HR 5.37, 95% CI 1.79-16.14), and renal insufficiency (HR 3.25, 95% CI 1.37-7.72). A 2 log10 decrease in HCV viral load at month 3 after starting antiviral treatment was associated with decreased mortality (HR 0.39, 95% CI 0.16-0.95). While renal involvement is still associated with poorer prognosis, infectious processes are now the most common cause of death in HCV cryoglobulinemia vasculitis. Immunosuppressive treatment is associated with an increased risk of death, independently from disease severity. Response to antiviral treatment is associated with significantly reduced mortality risk.

Long-Term Outcome in Levothyroxine Treated Patients With Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Concomitant Heart Disease.

PubMed

Andersen, Mette Nygaard; Olsen, Anne-Marie Schjerning; Madsen, Jesper Clausager; Kristensen, Søren Lund; Faber, Jens; Torp-Pedersen, Christian; Gislason, Gunnar H; Selmer, Christian

2016-11-01

Subclinical hypothyroidism is a common condition that may lead to impaired cardiac function. This study sought to examine the effects of levothyroxine treatment in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and heart disease. This was a register-based historical cohort study. The study was composed of Danish primary care patients and hospital outpatients age 18 years and older with established heart disease who were diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism in 1997-2011. Patients were stratified according to whether they claimed a subsequent prescription of levothyroxine. Event rates and incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated by use of time-dependent multivariable Poisson regression models. Measures included all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), defined as cardiovascular death, fatal or nonfatal myocardial infaction and stroke, and all-cause hospital admissions. Of 61 611 patients with a diagnosis of cardiac disease having their first time thyroid function testing, 1192 patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (mean age 73.6 [SD ± 13.3] y, 63.8% female) were included, of whom 136 (11.4%) were treated with levothyroxine. During a median follow-up time of 5.6 y (interquartile range, 6.5 y), 694 (58.2%) patients died. Patients treated with levothyroxine displayed no significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted IRR, 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90-1.52), MACE (adjusted IRR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.80-1.45), or hospital admission (adjusted IRR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.71-1.24), when compared with patients not treated with levothyroxine. Levothyroxine treatment in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism and heart disease was not associated with a significant benefit nor risk of all-cause mortality, MACE, or hospital admission in this large real-world cohort study.

Mortality trends among Japanese dialysis patients, 1988-2013: a joinpoint regression analysis.

PubMed

Wakasugi, Minako; Kazama, Junichiro James; Narita, Ichiei

2016-09-01

Evaluation of mortality trends in dialysis patients is important for improving their prognoses. The present study aimed to examine temporal trends in deaths (all-cause, cardiovascular, noncardiovascular and the five leading causes) among Japanese dialysis patients. Mortality data were extracted from the Japanese Society of Dialysis Therapy registry. Age-standardized mortality rates were calculated by direct standardization against the 2013 dialysis population. The average annual percentage of change (APC) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed for trends using joinpoint regression analysis. A total of 469 324 deaths occurred, of which 25.9% were from cardiac failure, 17.5% from infectious disease, 10.2% from cerebrovascular disorders, 8.6% from malignant tumors and 5.6% from cardiac infarction. The joinpoint trend for all-cause mortality decreased significantly, by -3.7% (95% CI -4.2 to -3.2) per year from 1988 through 2000, then decreased more gradually, by -1.4% (95% CI -1.7 to -1.2) per year during 2000-13. The improved mortality rates were mainly due to decreased deaths from cardiovascular disease, with mortality rates due to noncardiovascular disease outnumbering those of cardiovascular disease in the last decade. Among the top five causes of death, cardiac failure has shown a marked decrease in mortality rate. However, the rates due to infectious disease have remained stable during the study period [APC 0.1 (95% CI -0.2-0.3)]. Significant progress has been made, particularly with regard to the decrease in age-standardized mortality rates. The risk of cardiovascular death has decreased, while the risk of death from infection has remained unchanged for 25 years. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of ERA-EDTA. All rights reserved.

Recent advances in understanding vitiligo.

PubMed

Manga, Prashiela; Elbuluk, Nada; Orlow, Seth J

2016-01-01

Vitiligo, an acquired depigmentation disorder, manifests as white macules on the skin and can cause significant psychological stress and stigmatization. Recent advances have shed light on key components that drive disease onset and progression as well as therapeutic approaches. Vitiligo can be triggered by stress to the melanin pigment-producing cells of the skin, the melanocytes. The triggers, which range from sunburn to mechanical trauma and chemical exposures, ultimately cause an autoimmune response that targets melanocytes, driving progressive skin depigmentation. The most significant progress in our understanding of disease etiology has been made on three fronts: (1) identifying cellular responses to stress, including antioxidant pathways and the unfolded protein response (UPR), as key players in disease onset, (2) characterizing immune responses that target melanocytes and drive disease progression, and (3) identifying major susceptibility genes. The current model for vitiligo pathogenesis postulates that oxidative stress causes cellular disruptions, including interruption of protein maturation in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), leading to the activation of the UPR and expression of UPR-regulated chemokines such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-8. These chemokines recruit immune components to the skin, causing melanocytes to be targeted for destruction. Oxidative stress can further increase melanocyte targeting by promoting antigen presentation. Two key components of the autoimmune response that promote disease progression are the interferon (IFN)-γ/CXCL10 axis and IL-17-mediated responses. Several genome-wide association studies support a role for these pathways, with the antioxidant gene NRF2, UPR gene XBP1, and numerous immune-related genes including class I and class II major histocompatibility genes associated with a risk for developing vitiligo. Novel approaches to promote repigmentation in vitiligo are being investigated and may yield effective, long-lasting therapies.

[Reccurent mycobacterial diseases in patients with impaired axis IL-12/INF-gamma].

PubMed

Strach, Magdalena; Nalepa, Piotr; Sulicka-Grodzicka, Joanna; Kierzkowska, Izabella; Siedlar, Maciej; Grodzicki, Tomasz

2013-01-01

Mycobacteria is a large group of pathogens that are common in environment, in soil and tap water. Although mycobacteria [non tuberculosis mycobacteria] can inhabit body surface without causing any disease in the circumstances of primary or secondary immunodeficiency can cause clinically significant organ or systemic damage. Defect of IL-12/INFgamma axis is an example of primary immunodeficiency that predispose to mycobacterial infections while protection against other microorganisms is not damaged. We present review of known defects of IL-12/IFNgamma axis and brief presentation of our own experience.

Exercise and Genetic Rescue of SCA1 via the Transcriptional Repressor Capicua*

PubMed Central

Fryer, John D.; Yu, Peng; Kang, Hyojin; Mandel-Brehm, Caleigh; Carter, Angela N.; Crespo-Barreto, Juan; Gao, Yan; Flora, Adriano; Shaw, Chad; Orr, Harry T.; Zoghbi, Huda Y.

2011-01-01

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease caused by expansion of a translated CAG repeat in Ataxin-1 (ATXN1). To determine the long-term effects of exercise, we implemented a mild exercise regimen in a mouse model of SCA1 and found a considerable improvement in survival accompanied by upregulation of epidermal growth factor and consequential downregulation of Capicua, an ATXN1 interactor. Offspring of Capicua mutant mice bred to SCA1 mice showed significant improvement of all disease phenotypes. Although polyglutamine-expanded Atxn1 caused some loss of Capicua function, further reducing Capicua levels, either genetically or by exercise, mitigated the disease phenotypes. Thus, exercise might have long-term beneficial effects in other ataxias and neurodegenerative diseases. PMID:22053053

Vegetarian, vegan diets and multiple health outcomes: A systematic review with meta-analysis of observational studies.

PubMed

Dinu, Monica; Abbate, Rosanna; Gensini, Gian Franco; Casini, Alessandro; Sofi, Francesco

2017-11-22

Beneficial effects of vegetarian and vegan diets on health outcomes have been supposed in previous studies. Aim of this study was to clarify the association between vegetarian, vegan diets, risk factors for chronic diseases, risk of all-cause mortality, incidence, and mortality from cardio-cerebrovascular diseases, total cancer and specific type of cancer (colorectal, breast, prostate and lung), through meta-analysis. A comprehensive search of Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was conducted. Eighty-six cross-sectional and 10 cohort prospective studies were included. The overall analysis among cross-sectional studies reported significant reduced levels of body mass index, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and glucose levels in vegetarians and vegans versus omnivores. With regard to prospective cohort studies, the analysis showed a significant reduced risk of incidence and/or mortality from ischemic heart disease (RR 0.75; 95% CI, 0.68 to 0.82) and incidence of total cancer (RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.87 to 0.98) but not of total cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, all-cause mortality and mortality from cancer. No significant association was evidenced when specific types of cancer were analyzed. The analysis conducted among vegans reported significant association with the risk of incidence from total cancer (RR 0.85; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.95), despite obtained only in a limited number of studies. This comprehensive meta-analysis reports a significant protective effect of a vegetarian diet versus the incidence and/or mortality from ischemic heart disease (-25%) and incidence from total cancer (-8%). Vegan diet conferred a significant reduced risk (-15%) of incidence from total cancer.

Otology versus Otosociology

PubMed Central

Lopez-Gonzalez, Miguel A.; Cherta, Georgina; Nieto, Jose A.; Esteban, Francisco

2012-01-01

Otology concerns the biological study of ear alterations and diseases, solely. So, the diagnosis of audiovestibular diseases tends to be idiopathic or is based on theoretical concepts such as idiopathic sudden deafness, Ménière disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, tinnitus, hyperacusis, or idiopathic facial paralysis. The treatment for these pathologies is symptomatic. Otosociology takes the aetiology and pathogenesis of the ear and situates them within the social and cultural environment of the patient. Then, audiovestibular disease is based on evidence, and the treatment options seek to solve the causes and consequences produced. Otosociology should be considered as a new discipline. Otosociology came into being since otology does not provide definitive solutions for the audiovestibular alterations produced from the point of view of the ear, whereas otosociology finds these solutions within the social/cultural environment of the patient. Where otology emphasises the diseases of the ear, otosociology deals with social manifestations. Where otology deals with idiopathic diseases, otosociology deals with causes and pathogeny produced by interactions in the social and cultural surroundings of the patient. Where otology offers symptomatic treatment, otosociology offers treatment of causes and consequences. Otosociology can fill significant voids in audiovestibular processes from the perspective of the patient's social environment. PMID:23762611

Management of cytomegalovirus infection and disease in liver transplant recipients

PubMed Central

Bruminhent, Jackrapong; Razonable, Raymund R

2014-01-01

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the most common viral pathogens causing clinical disease in liver transplant recipients, and contributing to substantial morbidity and occasional mortality. CMV causes febrile illness often accompanied by bone marrow suppression, and in some cases, invades tissues including the transplanted liver allograft. In addition, CMV has been significantly associated with an increased predisposition to acute and chronic allograft rejection, accelerated hepatitis C recurrence, and other opportunistic infections, as well as reduced overall patient and allograft survival. To negate the adverse effects of CMV infection on transplant outcome, its prevention, whether through antiviral prophylaxis or preemptive therapy, is an essential component to the management of liver transplant recipients. Two recently updated guidelines have suggested that antiviral prophylaxis or preemptive therapy are similarly effective in preventing CMV disease in modest-risk CMV-seropositive liver transplant recipients, while antiviral prophylaxis is the preferred strategy over preemptive therapy for the prevention of CMV disease in high-risk recipients [CMV-seronegative recipients of liver allografts from CMV-seropositive donors (D+/R-)]. However, antiviral prophylaxis has only delayed the onset of CMV disease in many CMV D+/R- liver transplant recipients, and such occurrence of late-onset CMV disease was significantly associated with increased all-cause and infection-related mortality after liver transplantation. Therefore, a search for better strategies for prevention, such as prolonged duration of antiviral prophylaxis, a hybrid approach (antiviral prophylaxis followed by preemptive therapy), or the use of immunologic measures to guide antiviral prophylaxis has been suggested to prevent late-onset CMV disease. The standard treatment of CMV disease consists of intravenous ganciclovir or oral valganciclovir, and if feasible, reduction in pharmacologic immunosuppression. In one clinical trial, oral valganciclovir was as effective as intravenous ganciclovir for the treatment of mild to moderate CMV disease in solid organ (including liver) transplant recipients. The aim of this article is to provide a state-of-the art review of the epidemiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of CMV infection and disease after liver transplantation. PMID:25018848

Hypothyroidism is associated with all-cause mortality in a national cohort of chronic haemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Lin, Hsuan-Jen; Lin, Chung-Chih; Lin, Hsuan Ming; Chen, Hsuan-Ju; Lin, Che-Chen; Chang, Chiz-Tzung; Chou, Che-Yi; Huang, Chiu-Ching

2018-06-01

The prevalence of hypothyroidism is high in haemodialysis (HD) patients and hypothyroidism increases all-cause mortality in HD patients. Comorbidities are common in HD patients and are associated with both mortality and hypothyroidism. The aim of the study is to explore the effect of the interactions of comorbidities and hypothyroidism on all-cause mortality in HD patients. Patients with hypothyroidism (ICD-9-CM 244.0, 244.1, and 244.9) and matched patients without hypothyroidism in the Registry for Catastrophic Illness Patient Database of Taiwan Health Insurance from 2000 to 2010 were analyzed. The association of hypothyroidism and risk of all-cause mortality was analyzed using Cox proportional hazard regression. Nine hundred and eight HD patients with hypothyroidism and 3632 sex-, age-, gender- matched HD patients without hypothyroidism were analyzed. Hypothyroidism was associated with increased all-cause mortality with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.22 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-1.36, P < 0.001]. TRT may decrease mortality associated with hypothyroidism (P < 0.001). There was a significant interaction (P = 0.04) between diabetes and hypothyroidism. There was no significant interaction found in hypothyroidism and the following comorbidities: hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, asthma, congestive heart failure and cancer. Hypothyroidism is associated with increased all-cause mortality in chronic HD patients. The interaction of hypothyroidism and diabetes, but not other common comorbidities in HD patients, has an effect on mortality risks. © 2017 Asian Pacific Society of Nephrology.

Overview of the role of Shiga toxins in porcine edema disease pathogenesis.

PubMed

Casanova, Natalia A; Redondo, Leandro M; Dailoff, Gabriela C; Arenas, David; Fernández Miyakawa, Mariano E

2018-06-15

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) have been implicated as the cause of enterotoxemias, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome in humans and edema disease (ED) of pigs. Stx1 and Stx2 are the most common types found in association with illness, but only Stx2e is associated with disease in the animal host. Porcine edema disease is a serious affection which can lead to dead causing great losses of weaned piglets. Stx2e is the most frequent Stx variant found in porcine feces and is considered the key virulence factor involved in the pathogenesis of porcine edema disease. Stx2e binds with higher affinity to Gb4 receptor than to Gb3 which could be due to amino acid changes in B subunit. Moreover, this subtype also binds to Forssman glycosphingolipids conferring upon Stx2e a unique promiscuous recognition feature. Manifestations of edema disease are caused by systemic effects of Stx2e with no significant morphologic changes in enterocytes. Endothelial cell necrosis in the brain is an early event in the pathogenesis of ED caused by Stx2e-producing STEC strains. Further studies are needed to generate techniques and tools which allow to understand the circulation and ecology of STEC strains in pigs even in resistant animals for diagnostic and epidemiological purposes. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Baylisascaris Larva Migrans

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kazacos, Kevin R.; Abbott, Rachel C.; van Riper, Charles

2016-05-26

SummaryBaylisascaris procyonis, the common raccoon roundworm, is the most commonly recognized cause of clinical larva migrans (LM) in animals, a condition in which an immature parasitic worm or larva migrates in a host animal’s tissues, causing obvious disease. Infection with B. procyonis is best known as a cause of fatal or severe neurologic disease that results when the larvae invade the brain, the spinal cord, or both; this condition is known as neural larva migrans (NLM). Baylisascariasis is a zoonotic disease, that is, one that is transmissible from animals to humans. In humans, B. procyonis can cause damaging visceral (VLM), ocular (OLM), and neural larva migrans. Due to the ubiquity of infected raccoons around humans, there is considerable human exposure and risk of infection with this parasite. The remarkable disease-producing capability of B. procyonis in animals and humans is one of the most significant aspects of the biology of ascarids (large roundworms) to come to light in recent years. Infection with B. procyonis has important health implications for a wide variety of free-ranging and captive wildlife, zoo animals, domestic animals, as well as human beings, on both an individual and population level. This report, eighth in the series of U.S. Geological Survey Circulars on zoonotic diseases, will help us to better understand the routes of Baylisascaris procyonis infections and how best to adequately monitor this zoonotic disease.

Long-Range Structural Effects of a Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease-Causing Mutation in Human Glycyl-TRNA Synthetase

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xie, W.; Nangle, L.A.; Zhang, W.

2009-06-04

Functional expansion of specific tRNA synthetases in higher organisms is well documented. These additional functions may explain why dominant mutations in glycyl-tRNA synthetase (GlyRS) and tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, the most common heritable disease of the peripheral nervous system. At least 10 disease-causing mutant alleles of GlyRS have been annotated. These mutations scatter broadly across the primary sequence and have no apparent unifying connection. Here we report the structure of wild type and a CMT-causing mutant (G526R) of homodimeric human GlyRS. The mutation is at the site for synthesis of glycyl-adenylate, but the rest of the two structuresmore » are closely similar. Significantly, the mutant form diffracts to a higher resolution and has a greater dimer interface. The extra dimer interactions are located {approx}30 {angstrom} away from the G526R mutation. Direct experiments confirm the tighter dimer interaction of the G526R protein. The results suggest the possible importance of subtle, long-range structural effects of CMT-causing mutations at the dimer interface. From analysis of a third crystal, an appended motif, found in higher eukaryote GlyRSs, seems not to have a role in these long-range effects.« less

A universal vaccine for serogroup B meningococcus.

PubMed

Giuliani, Marzia M; Adu-Bobie, Jeannette; Comanducci, Maurizio; Aricò, Beatrice; Savino, Silvana; Santini, Laura; Brunelli, Brunella; Bambini, Stefania; Biolchi, Alessia; Capecchi, Barbara; Cartocci, Elena; Ciucchi, Laura; Di Marcello, Federica; Ferlicca, Francesca; Galli, Barbara; Luzzi, Enrico; Masignani, Vega; Serruto, Davide; Veggi, Daniele; Contorni, Mario; Morandi, Maurizio; Bartalesi, Alessandro; Cinotti, Vanda; Mannucci, Donatella; Titta, Francesca; Ovidi, Elisa; Welsch, Jo Anne; Granoff, Dan; Rappuoli, Rino; Pizza, Mariagrazia

2006-07-18

Meningitis and sepsis caused by serogroup B meningococcus are two severe diseases that still cause significant mortality. To date there is no universal vaccine that prevents these diseases. In this work, five antigens discovered by reverse vaccinology were expressed in a form suitable for large-scale manufacturing and formulated with adjuvants suitable for human use. The vaccine adjuvanted by aluminum hydroxide induced bactericidal antibodies in mice against 78% of a panel of 85 meningococcal strains representative of the global population diversity. The strain coverage could be increased to 90% and above by the addition of CpG oligonucleotides or by using MF59 as adjuvant. The vaccine has the potential to conquer one of the most devastating diseases of childhood.

Integrated control of white rot disease on beans caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum using Contans® and reduced fungicides application.

PubMed

Elsheshtawi, Mohamed; Elkhaky, Maged T; Sayed, Shaban R; Bahkali, Ali H; Mohammed, Arif A; Gambhir, Dikshit; Mansour, Aref S; Elgorban, Abdallah M

2017-02-01

This study was conducted to determine the compatibility of Contans® ( Coniothyrium minitans ) with fungicides against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum . Results showed that both Contans® and Topsin® significantly reduced the disease incidence caused by S. sclerotiorum by 90% and 95% survival plants, respectively when they were individually applied and compared to control. While, soil application of Contans® and Sumisclex mixture was the most effective in suppressing the white rot disease incidence that produced 100% survival plants, application of C. minitans combined with the reduced doses of fungicides would be advantageous in saving labor cost, thus increasing production efficiency of bean.

Neglected fungal zoonoses: hidden threats to man and animals.

PubMed

Seyedmousavi, S; Guillot, J; Tolooe, A; Verweij, P E; de Hoog, G S

2015-05-01

Zoonotic fungi can be naturally transmitted between animals and humans, and in some cases cause significant public health problems. A number of mycoses associated with zoonotic transmission are among the group of the most common fungal diseases, worldwide. It is, however, notable that some fungal diseases with zoonotic potential have lacked adequate attention in international public health efforts, leading to insufficient attention on their preventive strategies. This review aims to highlight some mycoses whose zoonotic potential received less attention, including infections caused by Talaromyces (Penicillium) marneffei, Lacazia loboi, Emmonsia spp., Basidiobolus ranarum, Conidiobolus spp. and Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Copyright © 2015 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of age and sex on survival and causes of death in adults with congenital heart disease.

PubMed

Oliver, Jose Maria; Gallego, Pastora; Gonzalez, Ana Elvira; Garcia-Hamilton, Diego; Avila, Pablo; Alonso, Andres; Ruiz-Cantador, Jose; Peinado, Rafael; Yotti, Raquel; Fernandez-Aviles, Francisco

2017-10-15

The impact of gender and aging on relative survival and causes of death in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) are not well known. Single center observational longitudinal study of 3311 consecutive ACHD (50.5% males) followed up to 25years. Patients were divided by the age at last follow-up into three groups: <40, 40-65 and >65years old. Their vital status was verified by crosschecking the Spanish National Death Index. Regression model for relative survival from reference population was performed. Cause of death was classified according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). Patients who died from cardiovascular (CV) causes were further investigated on a case-by-case basis. During a cumulative follow-up time of 37,608 person-years 336 patients died (10%). Age-adjusted relative survival in females was significantly worse than in males (hazard ratio [HR] 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0-1.6; p=0.046), and sex-adjusted relative survival improved across the three group of ages (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.97-0.99; p<0.001). There was a temporal decline of CV deaths with aging in both genders (p<0.001). The leading cause of CV death was heart failure but sudden death prevailed in subjects <40years (p=0.004). While sudden death progressively declined with aging heart failure significantly increased (p<0.001). Women with CHD fare worse than men. There are a decline in CV deaths and a major temporal shift in the causes of CV deaths with aging. Heart failure surpasses sudden death as the primary cause of death in survivors over 40years. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Studies on the Control of Ascochyta Blight in Field Peas (Pisum sativum L.) Caused by Ascochyta pinodes in Zhejiang Province, China

PubMed Central

Liu, Na; Xu, Shengchun; Yao, Xiefeng; Zhang, Guwen; Mao, Weihua; Hu, Qizan; Feng, Zhijuan; Gong, Yaming

2016-01-01

Ascochyta blight, an infection caused by a complex of Ascochyta pinodes, Ascochyta pinodella, Ascochyta pisi, and/or Phoma koolunga, is a destructive disease in many field peas (Pisum sativum L.)-growing regions, and it causes significant losses in grain yield. To understand the composition of fungi associated with this disease in Zhejiang Province, China, a total of 65 single-pycnidiospore fungal isolates were obtained from diseased pea samples collected from 5 locations in this region. These isolates were identified as Ascochyta pinodes by molecular techniques and their morphological and physiological characteristics. The mycelia of ZJ-1 could penetrate pea leaves across the stomas, and formed specific penetration structures and directly pierced leaves. The resistance level of 23 available pea cultivars was tested against their representative isolate A. pinodes ZJ-1 using the excised leaf-assay technique. The ZJ-1 mycelia could penetrate the leaves of all tested cultivars, and they developed typical symptoms, which suggested that all tested cultivars were susceptible to the fungus. Chemical fungicides and biological control agents were screened for management of this disease, and their efficacies were further determined. Most of the tested fungicides (11 out of 14) showed high activity toward ZJ-1 with EC50 < 5 μg/mL. Moreover, fungicides, including tebuconazole, boscalid, iprodione, carbendazim, and fludioxonil, displayed more than 80% disease control efficacy under the recorded conditions. Three biocontrol strains of Bacillus sp. and one of Pantoea agglomerans were isolated from pea-related niches and significantly reduced the severity of disease under greenhouse and field conditions. To our knowledge, this is the first study on ascochyta blight in field peas, and results presented here will be useful for controlling the disease in this area. PMID:27148177

GT-repeat polymorphism in the heme oxygenase-1 gene promoter is associated with cardiovascular mortality risk in an arsenic-exposed population in northeastern Taiwan

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wu, Meei-Maan, E-mail: mmwu@tmu.edu.t; Graduate Institute of Oncology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Basic Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, Taipei, Taiwan

2010-11-01

Inorganic arsenic has been associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease and mortality in humans. A functional GT-repeat polymorphism in the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene promoter is inversely correlated with the development of coronary artery disease and restenosis after clinical angioplasty. The relationship of HO-1 genotype with arsenic-associated cardiovascular disease has not been studied. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between the HO-1 GT-repeat polymorphism and cardiovascular mortality in an arsenic-exposed population. A total of 504 study participants were followed up for a median of 10.7 years for occurrence of cardiovascular deaths (coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, andmore » peripheral arterial disease). Cardiovascular risk factors and DNA samples for determination of HO-1 GT repeats were obtained at recruitment. GT repeats variants were grouped into the S (< 27 repeats) or L allele ({>=} 27 repeats). Relative mortality risk was estimated using Cox regression analysis, adjusted for competing risk of cancer and other causes. For the L/L, L/S, and S/S genotype groups, the crude mortalities for cardiovascular disease were 8.42, 3.10, and 2.85 cases/1000 person-years, respectively. After adjusting for conventional cardiovascular risk factors and competing risk of cancer and other causes, carriers with class S allele (L/S or S/S genotypes) had a significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to non-carriers (L/L genotype) [OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.16-0.90]. In contrast, no significant association was observed between HO-1 genotype and cancer mortality or mortality from other causes. Shorter (GT)n repeats in the HO-1 gene promoter may confer protective effects against cardiovascular mortality related to arsenic exposure.« less

Etiology, clinical profile, and outcome of liver disease in pregnancy with predictors of maternal mortality: A prospective study from Western India.

PubMed

Solanke, Dattatray; Rathi, Chetan; Pandey, Vikas; Patil, Mallanagoud; Phadke, Aniruddha; Sawant, Prabha

2016-11-01

The aim of this study is to study the etiology, clinical profile, and prognostic factors related to maternal and fetal health in pregnant patients with liver disease in Western India. This study included 103 consecutive pregnant patients with liver dysfunction from August 2013 to July 2015, who underwent regular biochemical tests, viral markers, ultrasound of abdomen, etc. and were followed up for 6 weeks postpartum or until death. Pregnancy-specific causes of liver dysfunction were found in 39 % (40/103) patients. Liver diseases were most frequent in third trimester 69.9 % (72/103). Etiologies in third trimester were viral hepatitis 36.1 % (26/72), pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) 30.5 % (22/72), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy 11.1 % (8/72), acute fatty liver of pregnancy (2/72), etc. Hepatitis E was the commonest agent among viral hepatitis 71.8 % (28/39). Causes of maternal mortality (n = 25) were hepatitis E 40 % (10/25), PIH 32 % (8/25), and tropical diseases 20 % (5/25). Fetal mortality (n = 31) was 38.7 % (12/31) in hepatitis E. Maternal mortality was significantly associated with presence of jaundice, fever, abdominal pain, oliguria, anemia, leukocytosis, and coagulopathy. Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score >21 predicted maternal mortality with 80 % sensitivity and 91 % specificity (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.878 and p < 0.001). Liver disease was most common in the third trimester of pregnancy. Hepatitis E was the most common cause of liver disease in pregnant women in western India with significant maternal mortality, predicted by high MELD score.

Incidence of end-stage renal disease in overseas-born, compared with Australian-born, non-indigenous Australians.

PubMed

Stewart, John H; McCredie, Margaret R E; McDonald, Stephen P

2004-08-01

Barriers to immigration from non-European sources were relaxed in the 1970s. As a result, more Australians are now of Middle Eastern, Asian or Pacific Islander origin, rather than British or European. Currently, overseas-born persons comprise one-third of non-indigenous Australians with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Using data recorded by the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry, age-standardized incidence rates were calculated for ESRD due to all causes and to certain primary renal diseases for all non-indigenous Australians who were aged over 15 years when first treated for ESRD between 1993 and 2001. Truncated age-standardized incidence rates were calculated for ESRD due to glomerulonephritis by type. Immigrants from the British Isles and 'rest of Europe' had less, and those from the Pacific Island nations, East/South-East Asia, Indian subcontinent, Middle East and Southern Europe more ESRD from all causes than the Australian-born. Two diseases accounted for most of the excess: Type 2 diabetic nephropathy and glomerulonephritis (the latter not significant for the Indian-born). There was a small excess (not always significant) of hypertensive/arteriopathic renal disease in Asian- and Middle Eastern-born persons. The East/South-East Asian-born had the highest rates of ESRD due to mesangial immunoglobulin A (IgA) disease and lupus nephritis, and the Middle Eastern-born the highest rates from focal sclerosing glomerulonephritis. For Australians born in the Pacific Island nations, Asia, the Middle East or Southern Europe, excess prevalence of, and/or susceptibility to, diseases that cause ESRD has more than offset any 'healthy migrant' effect.

Causes of Death Associated With Prolonged TV Viewing: NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study.

PubMed

Keadle, Sarah K; Moore, Steven C; Sampson, Joshua N; Xiao, Qian; Albanes, Demetrius; Matthews, Charles E

2015-12-01

TV viewing is the most prevalent sedentary behavior and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality, but the association with other leading causes of death is unknown. This study examined the association between TV viewing and leading causes of death in the U.S. A prospective cohort of 221,426 individuals (57% male) aged 50-71 years who were free of chronic disease at baseline (1995-1996), 93% white, with an average BMI of 26.7 (SD=4.4) kg/m(2) were included. Participants self-reported TV viewing at baseline and were followed until death or December 31, 2011. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for TV viewing and cause-specific mortality were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression. Analyses were conducted in 2014-2015. After an average follow-up of 14.1 years, adjusted mortality risk for a 2-hour/day increase in TV viewing was significantly higher for the following causes of death (HR [95% CI]): cancer (1.07 [1.03, 1.11]); heart disease (1.23 [1.17, 1.29]); chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (1.28 [1.14, 1.43]); diabetes (1.56 [1.33, 1.83]); influenza/pneumonia (1.24 [1.02, 1.50]); Parkinson disease (1.35 [1.11, 1.65]); liver disease (1.33 [1.05, 1.67]); and suicide (1.43 [1.10, 1.85]. Mortality associations persisted in stratified analyses with important potential confounders, reducing causation concerns. This study shows the breadth of mortality outcomes associated with prolonged TV viewing, and identifies novel associations for several leading causes of death. TV viewing is a prevalent discretionary behavior that may be a more important target for public health intervention than previously recognized. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00340015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Causes of Death Associated With Prolonged TV Viewing

PubMed Central

Keadle, Sarah K.; Moore, Steven C.; Sampson, Joshua N.; Xiao, Qian; Albanes, Demetrius; Matthews, Charles E.

2015-01-01

Introduction TV viewing is the most prevalent sedentary behavior and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality, but the association with other leading causes of death is unknown. This study examined the association between TV viewing and leading causes of death in the U.S. Methods A prospective cohort of 221,426 individuals (57% male) aged 50–71 years who were free of chronic disease at baseline (1995–1996), 93% white, with an average BMI of 26.7 (SD=4.4) kg/m2 were included. Participants self-reported TV viewing at baseline and were followed until death or December 31, 2011. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for TV viewing and cause-specific mortality were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression. Analyses were conducted in 2014–2015. Results After an average follow-up of 14.1 years, adjusted mortality risk for a 2-hour/day increase in TV viewing was significantly higher for the following causes of death (HR [95% CI]): cancer (1.07 [1.03, 1.11); heart disease (1.23 [1.17, 1.29]); chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (1.28 [1.14, 1.43]); diabetes (1.56 [1.33, 1.83]); influenza/pneumonia (1.24 [1.02, 1.50]); Parkinson disease (1.35 [1.11, 1.65]); liver disease (1.33 [1.05, 1.67]); and suicide (1.43 [1.10, 1.85]. Mortality associations persisted in stratified analyses with important potential confounders, reducing causation concerns. Conclusions This study shows the breadth of mortality outcomes associated with prolonged TV viewing, and identifies novel associations for several leading causes of death. TV viewing is a prevalent discretionary behavior that may be a more important target for public health intervention than previously recognized. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00340015 PMID:26215832

Transgenic expression of lactoferrin imparts enhanced resistance to head blight of wheat caused by Fusarium graminearum

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The development of plant gene transfer systems has allowed for the introgression of alien genes into plant genomes for novel disease control strategies, thus providing a mechanism for broadening the genetic resources available to plant breeders. Using the tools of plant genetic engineering, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial gene was tested for resistance against head blight caused by Fusarium graminearum Schwabe, a devastating disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) that reduces both grain yield and quality. Results A construct containing a bovine lactoferrin cDNA was used to transform wheat using an Agrobacterium-mediated DNA transfer system to express this antimicrobial protein in transgenic wheat. Transformants were analyzed by Northern and Western blots to determine lactoferrin gene expression levels and were inoculated with the head blight disease fungus F. graminearum. Transgenic wheat showed a significant reduction of disease incidence caused by F. graminearum compared to control wheat plants. The level of resistance in the highly susceptible wheat cultivar Bobwhite was significantly higher in transgenic plants compared to control Bobwhite and two untransformed commercial wheat cultivars, susceptible Wheaton and tolerant ND 2710. Quantification of the expressed lactoferrin protein by ELISA in transgenic wheat indicated a positive correlation between the lactoferrin gene expression levels and the levels of disease resistance. Conclusions Introgression of the lactoferrin gene into elite commercial wheat, barley and other susceptible cereals may enhance resistance to F. graminearum. PMID:22405032

Disease-related mortality exceeds treatment-related mortality in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia on second-line or later therapy.

PubMed

Pearson, Edward; McGarry, Lisa; Gala, Smeet; Nieset, Christopher; Nanavaty, Merena; Mwamburi, Mkaya; Levy, Yair

2016-04-01

Treatment of newly-diagnosed patients with chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CP-CML) with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) results in near-normal life expectancy. However, CP-CML patients resistant to initial TKIs face a poorer prognosis and significantly higher CML-related mortality. We conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate the specific causes of deaths (diseases progression versus drug-related) in CP-CML patients receiving second- or third-line therapy. We identified eight studies based on our criteria that reported causes of death. Overall, 5% of second-line and 10% of third-line patients died during the study follow-up period. For second-line, (7 studies, n=1926), mortality was attributed to disease progression for 41% of deaths, 2% to treatment-related causes, 3% were treatment-unrelated, and 50% were unspecified adverse events (AEs), not likely related to study drug. In third-line, (2 studies, n=144), 71% deaths were attributed to disease progression, 7% treatment-related AEs, 14% treatment-unrelated and 7% unspecified AEs. Annual death rates for second- and third-line therapy were significantly higher than for general population in similar age group. Our findings suggest death attributed to disease progression is approximately 10 times that due to treatment-related AEs in patients with CP-CML receiving second- or third-line therapy. Therefore, the potential benefits of effective treatment for these patients with the currently available TKIs outweigh the risks of treatment-induced AEs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Particle-to-PFU ratio of Ebola virus influences disease course and survival in cynomolgus macaques.

PubMed

Alfson, Kendra J; Avena, Laura E; Beadles, Michael W; Staples, Hilary; Nunneley, Jerritt W; Ticer, Anysha; Dick, Edward J; Owston, Michael A; Reed, Christopher; Patterson, Jean L; Carrion, Ricardo; Griffiths, Anthony

2015-07-01

This study addresses the role of Ebola virus (EBOV) specific infectivity in virulence. Filoviruses are highly lethal, enveloped, single-stranded negative-sense RNA viruses that can cause hemorrhagic fever. No approved vaccines or therapies exist for filovirus infections, and infectious virus must be handled in maximum containment. Efficacy testing of countermeasures, in addition to investigations of pathogenicity and immune response, often requires a well-characterized animal model. For EBOV, an obstacle in performing accurate disease modeling is a poor understanding of what constitutes an infectious dose in animal models. One well-recognized consequence of viral passage in cell culture is a change in specific infectivity, often measured as a particle-to-PFU ratio. Here, we report that serial passages of EBOV in cell culture resulted in a decrease in particle-to-PFU ratio. Notably, this correlated with decreased potency in a lethal cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) model of infection; animals were infected with the same viral dose as determined by plaque assay, but animals that received more virus particles exhibited increased disease. This suggests that some particles are unable to form a plaque in a cell culture assay but are able to result in lethal disease in vivo. These results have a significant impact on how future studies are designed to model EBOV disease and test countermeasures. Ebola virus (EBOV) can cause severe hemorrhagic disease with a high case-fatality rate, and there are no approved vaccines or therapies. Specific infectivity can be considered the total number of viral particles per PFU, and its impact on disease is poorly understood. In stocks of most mammalian viruses, there are particles that are unable to complete an infectious cycle or unable to cause cell pathology in cultured cells. We asked if these particles cause disease in nonhuman primates by infecting monkeys with equal infectious doses of genetically identical stocks possessing either high or low specific infectivities. Interestingly, some particles that did not yield plaques in cell culture assays were able to result in lethal disease in vivo. Furthermore, the number of PFU needed to induce lethal disease in animals was very low. Our results have a significant impact on how future studies are designed to model EBOV disease and test countermeasures.

Preparation of a Burkholderia mallei Vaccine

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-01-01

Glanders , caused by Burkholderia Mallei , is a significant disease for humans due to the serious nature of the infection. It is recognized that B... Mallei is an organism with tremendous infectivity that poses a significant hazard to humans exposed to aerosols containing this organism.

Validation of a real-time PCR assay for pseudorabies virus surveillance purposes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is of significant economic importance for the swine industry worldwide. PRV is the cause of Aujeszky’s disease, also known as pseudorabies. The main symptoms are related to respiratory and nervous systems, which are the preferred site for PRV. Also, PRV can cause a high mort...

Registration of an oilseed sunflower germplasm line HA-BSR1 highly tolerant to Sclerotinia basal stalk rot

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Basal stalk rot (BSR) caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary is a devastating disease that causes a significant damage to worldwide sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) production by reducing seed yield and quality. The objective of this research was to develop highly BSR tolerant sunflower g...

Selection of bean lines that combine resistance to web blight and common bacterial blight

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Web blight caused by Thanatephorus cucumeris Frank (Donk) causes significant reductions in the yield and quality of beans produced in the humid, lowland tropics. A total of 644 lines from different breeding programs were evaluated for reaction to web blight and other diseases using conventional plan...

Efficacy of bacillus biocontrol agents for management of sheath blight and narrow brown leaf spot in organic rice

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Organic rice production has significantly increased in the U. S. over the last decade. Growers lack effective tools to manage sheath blight, caused by Rhizoctonia solani, and narrow brown leaf spot (NBLS), caused by Cercospora janseana, two major diseases affecting organic rice production. An experi...

Evaluations of Fusarium wilt resistance in Upland cotton from Uzbek cotton germplasm resources.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum Atk. Sny & Hans (FOV), in combination with Verticillium dahliae Kleb, causes a wilt disease complex in cotton that significantly reduces yield. A highly virulent strain of FOV, No. 316, was isolated that caused up to 80% plant death in commercial cotton in Uzbe...

A new in vitro bioassay system for discovery and quantitative evaluation of mosquito repellents

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mosquitoes are vectors of many pathogens that cause human diseases. Although prevention and control of immature stages is the best method to control mosquitoes, repellents play a significant role in reducing the risk of these diseases by preventing mosquito bites. The In vitro K & D bioassay system ...

Development of a fluorescent ASFV strain that retains the ability to cause disease in swine

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

African swine fever is a contagious and often lethal disease for domestic pigs with a significant economic impact for the swine industry. The etiological agent, African swine fever virus (ASFV), is a highly structurally complex double strain DNA virus. No effective vaccines or antiviral treatment ar...

High density genetic linkage map and bin mapping for disease resistance QTLs in peanut

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mapping and identification of QTLs are important for efficient marker-assisted breeding and for analysis of the molecular mechanisms regulating traits. Diseases, such as early and late leaf spots, Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), cause significant loses to peanut growers. Our goal is to develop a h...

Inbred rats as a model to study persistent renal colonization and associated cellular immune responsiveness

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pathogenic species of Leptospira cause leptospirosis, a bacterial zoonotic disease with a global distribution affecting over one million people annually. Rats are regarded as one of the most significant reservoir hosts of infection for human disease, and in the absence of clinical signs of infection...

An unusual case of fatal pulmonary hemorrhage in pregnancy.

PubMed

Dissanayake, N L A; Madegedara, Dushantha

2011-07-01

Rickettsial diseases are common in Srilanka. The spotted fever group of rickettsiae presents in many ways, including very severe disease causing significant morbidity and mortality. A regional variation of the Rickettsia conorii subspecies and differences in clinical presentations are reported. This case describes disseminated Rickettsia conorii infection in a pregnant woman presenting with endocarditis.

Brachypodium distachyon-Cochliobolus sativus pathosystem is a new model for studying plant-fungal interactions in cereal crops

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cochliobolus sativus (anamorph: Bipolaris sorokiniana) causes three major diseases in barley and wheat, including spot blotch, common root rot and kernel blight or black point. These diseases significantly reduce the yield and quality of the two most important cereal crops in the US and other region...

Susceptibility of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) to experimental infection with epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 7

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

During the fall of 2006, in Israel, epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) serotype 7 was the cause of an intense and widespread epizootic in domestic cattle that resulted in significant economic losses for the dairy industry. The susceptibility of potential North American vector and ruminant ho...

Discovery of uncharacterized sugarcane viruses by next generation sequencing technology: the case of Ramu stunt

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Ramu stunt disease of sugarcane was first reported in Papua New Guinea in the mid 1980's. The disease can reduce sugarcane yields significantly and causes severe stunting and mortality in highly susceptible cultivars. The causal agent of Ramu stunt has been investigated but its characterization has ...

Genome-wide association studies identify 25 genetic loci associated with resistance to Bacterial Cold Water Disease in rainbow trout

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant mortality and economic losses in salmonids aquaculture. In previous studies we have identified moderate-large effect QTL for BCWD resistance in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). However, the recent availability of a high density SNP array and...

Newcastle disease virus fusion and haemagglutinin-neuraminidase proteins contribute to its macrophage host range

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is an avian paramyxovirus that causes significant economic damage to international poultry industry. Different strains of NDV express a wide range of virulence that is primarily dependent on the amino acid sequence of the strain’s fusion (F) protein cleavage site. Two c...

Impact of Global Climate on Rift Valley Fever Disease Outbreaks

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease of animals and humans in Africa and the Middle East that is transmitted by mosquitoes. Since the virus was first isolated in Kenya in 1930 it has caused significant impact to animal and human health and national economies, and it is of concern to the internationa...

Development and Utilization of InDel Markers to Identify Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Disease Resistance

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Peanut diseases, such as leaf spot and spotted wilt caused by Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus, can significantly reduce yield and quality. Application of marker assisted plant breeding requires the development and validation of different types of DNA molecular markers. Nearly 10,000 SSR-based molecular ...

The distribution of scab in pecan trees in relation to fruit weight

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pecan scab, caused by Fusicladium effusum is the most destructive disease of pecan in Georgia and elsewhere in the southeastern US. We describe the distribution of scab and measures of yield in relation to sample height in tall trees. Control trees had significantly more severe disease on fruit lowe...

Screening of sorghum lines against long smut and grain mold pathogens

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Long smut infection is severe in the drier regions of Africa and Asia; whereas, grain mold is the most important widespread complex disease where sorghum is grown worldwide. Both fungal diseases cause significant losses in grain yield and quality. Long smut has not yet been observed in the United ...

Pathogenicity of Aeromonas hydrophila and pathogenesis of motile Aeromonas septicemia in channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Outbreaks of motile Aeromonas septicemia (MAS) disease in warm-water fishes have caused significant economic losses in aquaculture industries worldwide. Severe outbreaks of the disease have been reported since 2009 on catfish farms of the Southeastern United States with approximate 2,000 tons of dea...

Genetic selection in coastal Douglas-fir for tolerance to Swiss needle cast disease

Treesearch

Keith J.S. Jayawickrama; David Shaw; Terrance Z. Ye

2012-01-01

Swiss needle cast (SNC) of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco), caused by the ascomycete fungus Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii, is associated with significant volume growth losses (20 to 50 percent) along the Oregon Coast. Although the pathogen is endemic, disease symptoms have intensified in coastal forests of Oregon...

Combined effects of radiation and trauma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Messerschmidt, Otfried

Injuries, caused by both whole-body irradiation and wounds or burns, have been relatively little studied. Possibly because many investigators think that these injuries are just modified radiation-induced diseases for which the same treatment principles are valid. Other authors had the impression that, for instance, the radiation burn trauma is a new kind of disease which differs significantly from either radiation syndrome alone or from burn disease. There are many experimental data on animals which suggest that the pathology of combined injuries differs significantly from that of radiation-induced disease or of thermal or mechanical traumas. Wounds or burns which, in general, do not cause septicaemia could become entrance ports for bacteria when animals are exposed to whole-body irradiation. Thrombocytopenia is the reason for hemorrhages in wounds. The susceptibility to shock is increased considerably in combined injuries and the formation of callus in the bone fractures is significantly delayed. The healing of wounds and burns in the initial phase of the radiation syndrome does not always differ from healing in the non-irradiated organism. However, a few days or weeks later very serious wound infections and hemorrhages can occur. The additional injuries almost always worsen the development and prognosis of radiation-induced disease. The recommended treatment for combined injuries will differ in many respects from the treatment of wounds and burns or the radiation syndrome.

Development of an Autologous Macrophage-based Adoptive Gene Transfer Strategy to Treat Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis (PTOA) and Osteoarithritis (OA)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-01

rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory-related bone diseases. 22 If there is nothing significant to report during this reporting period, state...of arthritis . Thus, this proposal has very high clinical significance to the military, veterans, and civilian populations. Osteoarthritis; Post...Access J Sports Med. 5:73-9. 3. Arthritis : The Nation’s Most Common Cause of Disability Centers for disease prevention and health promotion. At a

The Role of Hedgehog Signaling in Tumor Induced Bone Disease

PubMed Central

Cannonier, Shellese A.; Sterling, Julie A.

2015-01-01

Despite significant progress in cancer treatments, tumor induced bone disease continues to cause significant morbidities. While tumors show distinct mutations and clinical characteristics, they behave similarly once they establish in bone. Tumors can metastasize to bone from distant sites (breast, prostate, lung), directly invade into bone (head and neck) or originate from the bone (melanoma, chondrosarcoma) where they cause pain, fractures, hypercalcemia, and ultimately, poor prognoses and outcomes. Tumors in bone secrete factors (interleukins and parathyroid hormone-related protein) that induce RANKL expression from osteoblasts, causing an increase in osteoclast mediated bone resorption. While the mechanisms involved varies slightly between tumor types, many tumors display an increase in Hedgehog signaling components that lead to increased tumor growth, therapy failure, and metastasis. The work of multiple laboratories has detailed Hh signaling in several tumor types and revealed that tumor establishment in bone can be controlled by both canonical and non-canonical Hh signaling in a cell type specific manner. This review will explore the role of Hh signaling in the modulation of tumor induced bone disease, and will shed insight into possible therapeutic interventions for blocking Hh signaling in these tumors. PMID:26343726

Fish Rhabdoviruses

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kurath, G.; Winton, J.

2008-01-01

Many important viral pathogens of fish are members of the family Rhabdoviridae. The viruses in this large group cause significant losses in populations of wild fish as well as among fish reared in aquaculture. Fish rhabdoviruses often have a wide host and geographic range, and infect aquatic animals in both freshwater and seawater. The fish rhabdoviruses comprise a diverse collection of isolates that can be placed in one of two quite different groups: isolates that are members of the established genusNovirhabdovirus, and those that are most similar to members of the genus Vesiculovirus. Because the diseases caused by fish rhabdoviruses are important to aquaculture, diagnostic methods for their detection and identification are well established. In addition to regulations designed to reduce the spread of fish viruses, a significant body of research has addressed methods for the control or prevention of diseases caused by fish rhabdoviruses, including vaccination. The number of reported fish rhabdoviruses continues to grow as a result of the expansion of aquaculture, the increase in global trade, the development of improved diagnostic methods, and heightened surveillance activities. Fish rhabdoviruses serve as useful components of model systems to study vertebrate virus disease, epidemiology, and immunology.

Host–parasite genotypic interactions in the honey bee: the dynamics of diversity

PubMed Central

Evison, Sophie E F; Fazio, Geraldine; Chappell, Paula; Foley, Kirsten; Jensen, Annette B; Hughes, William O H

2013-01-01

Parasites are thought to be a major driving force shaping genetic variation in their host, and are suggested to be a significant reason for the maintenance of sexual reproduction. A leading hypothesis for the occurrence of multiple mating (polyandry) in social insects is that the genetic diversity generated within-colonies through this behavior promotes disease resistance. This benefit is likely to be particularly significant when colonies are exposed to multiple species and strains of parasites, but host–parasite genotypic interactions in social insects are little known. We investigated this using honey bees, which are naturally polyandrous and consequently produce genetically diverse colonies containing multiple genotypes (patrilines), and which are also known to host multiple strains of various parasite species. We found that host genotypes differed significantly in their resistance to different strains of the obligate fungal parasite that causes chalkbrood disease, while genotypic variation in resistance to the facultative fungal parasite that causes stonebrood disease was less pronounced. Our results show that genetic variation in disease resistance depends in part on the parasite genotype, as well as species, with the latter most likely relating to differences in parasite life history and host–parasite coevolution. Our results suggest that the selection pressure from genetically diverse parasites might be an important driving force in the evolution of polyandry, a mechanism that generates significant genetic diversity in social insects. PMID:23919163

Host-parasite genotypic interactions in the honey bee: the dynamics of diversity.

PubMed

Evison, Sophie E F; Fazio, Geraldine; Chappell, Paula; Foley, Kirsten; Jensen, Annette B; Hughes, William O H

2013-07-01

Parasites are thought to be a major driving force shaping genetic variation in their host, and are suggested to be a significant reason for the maintenance of sexual reproduction. A leading hypothesis for the occurrence of multiple mating (polyandry) in social insects is that the genetic diversity generated within-colonies through this behavior promotes disease resistance. This benefit is likely to be particularly significant when colonies are exposed to multiple species and strains of parasites, but host-parasite genotypic interactions in social insects are little known. We investigated this using honey bees, which are naturally polyandrous and consequently produce genetically diverse colonies containing multiple genotypes (patrilines), and which are also known to host multiple strains of various parasite species. We found that host genotypes differed significantly in their resistance to different strains of the obligate fungal parasite that causes chalkbrood disease, while genotypic variation in resistance to the facultative fungal parasite that causes stonebrood disease was less pronounced. Our results show that genetic variation in disease resistance depends in part on the parasite genotype, as well as species, with the latter most likely relating to differences in parasite life history and host-parasite coevolution. Our results suggest that the selection pressure from genetically diverse parasites might be an important driving force in the evolution of polyandry, a mechanism that generates significant genetic diversity in social insects.

Development of a waterborne challenge model for Flavobacterium psychrophilum.

PubMed

Long, Amy; Fehringer, Tyson R; LaFrentz, Benjamin R; Call, Douglas R; Cain, Kenneth D

2014-10-01

Flavobacterium psychrophilum is the causative agent of bacterial coldwater disease and can cause significant mortality in salmonid aquaculture. To better evaluate disease prevention or treatment methods for F. psychrophilum in the laboratory, a waterborne challenge model that mimics a natural outbreak is needed. Here we report on the development of a waterborne challenge model for F. psychrophilum in which we incorporated variables that may influence challenge success: specifically, scarification prior to bacterial exposure and culture of F. psychrophilum under iron-limited culture conditions to potentially increase the probability of establishing disease. Additionally, two F. psychrophilum strains, CSF 259-93 and THC 02-90, were used in this model to test whether there were virulence differences between strains. Mortality was significantly higher in scarred fish than unscarred fish (81.5 vs. 19.4%), supporting the hypothesis that disruptions in the dermal layer enhance mortality in F. psychrophilum waterborne challenges. Although mortality differences were not significant between iron-replete and iron-limited treatments, mortality was high overall (> 30%). There was a significant difference in mortality between CSF 259-93 and THC 02-90 treatments, although both strains caused high mortality in injection challenges. In conclusion, this waterborne challenge model can be used to evaluate potential disease prevention and treatment methods. © 2014 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. All rights reserved.

Neuropsychiatric symptoms and celiac disease.

PubMed

Urban-Kowalczyk, Małgorzata; OEmigielski, Janusz; Gmitrowicz, Agnieszka

2014-01-01

Neuropsychiatric symptoms may represent an atypical manifestation of celiac disease that occur before a gastroenterological diagnosis is made. Some studies suggest that a gluten-free diet is effective in treating the depression, anxiety, and neurological complications associated with celiac disease. The article describes the case of a patient suffering from chronic, treatment-resistant symptoms of depression and anxiety. The diagnosis of celiac disease and introduction of an elimination diet caused a significant improvement in mental state and everyday functioning in the presenting patient. The presence of persistent anxiety and depressive symptoms, with a poor reaction to pharmacological treatment, indicates a need to identify somatic reasons for the underlying condition. It is important to remember that celiac disease can occur at any age, not only in childhood. The presence of this somatic cause of persistent depressive and anxiety symptoms should be considered in the diagnostic process in adults.

National Kidney Foundation consensus conference on cardiovascular and kidney diseases and diabetes risk: an integrated therapeutic approach to reduce events.

PubMed

Bakris, George; Vassalotti, Joseph; Ritz, Eberhard; Wanner, Christoph; Stergiou, George; Molitch, Mark; Nesto, Richard; Kaysen, George A; Sowers, James R

2010-10-01

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death in industrialized nations. Type 2 diabetes is a CVD risk factor that confers risk similar to a previous myocardial infarction in an individual who does not have diabetes. In addition, the most common cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is diabetes. Together, diabetes and hypertension account for more than two-thirds of CVD risk, and other risk factors such as dyslipidemia contribute to the remainder of CVD risk. CKD, particularly with presence of significant albuminuria, should be considered an additional cardiovascular risk factor. There is no consensus on how to assess and stratify risk for patients with kidney disease across subspecialties that commonly treat such patients. This paper summarizes the results of a consensus conference utilizing a patient case to discuss the integrated management of hypertension, kidney disease, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and heart failure across disciplines.

Periodontal disease as a potential factor for systemic inflammatory response in the dog.

PubMed

Kouki, M I; Papadimitriou, S A; Kazakos, G M; Savas, I; Bitchava, D

2013-01-01

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease that has numerous consequences both locally and systemically The aim of this study was to assess whether periodontal disease causes systemic inflammatory response in otherwise healthy, adult dogs. We estimated the total mouth periodontal score (TMPS), measured the concentration of C-reactive protein (CRP), hematocrit, and albumin, and determined the white blood cell (WBC) and polymorphonuclear cell (PMN) counts in client-owned dogs. There was a statistically significant relationship between the gingival bleeding index (TMPS-G) and CRP concentration, and WBC and PMN counts, possibly during the active periods of periodontal tissue destruction. No correlation was found between the periodontal destruction index (TMPS-P) and the measured blood parameters. We conclude that chronic periodontal disease does not cause anemia or a reduction in serum albumin. However, active periods of periodontal inflammation may be associated with laboratory values suggestive of a systemic inflammatory response.

Five Reasons to Consider Phytophthora infestans a Reemerging Pathogen.

PubMed

Fry, W E; Birch, P R J; Judelson, H S; Grünwald, N J; Danies, G; Everts, K L; Gevens, A J; Gugino, B K; Johnson, D A; Johnson, S B; McGrath, M T; Myers, K L; Ristaino, J B; Roberts, P D; Secor, G; Smart, C D

2015-07-01

Phytophthora infestans has been a named pathogen for well over 150 years and yet it continues to "emerge", with thousands of articles published each year on it and the late blight disease that it causes. This review explores five attributes of this oomycete pathogen that maintain this constant attention. First, the historical tragedy associated with this disease (Irish potato famine) causes many people to be fascinated with the pathogen. Current technology now enables investigators to answer some questions of historical significance. Second, the devastation caused by the pathogen continues to appear in surprising new locations or with surprising new intensity. Third, populations of P. infestans worldwide are in flux, with changes that have major implications to disease management. Fourth, the genomics revolution has enabled investigators to make tremendous progress in terms of understanding the molecular biology (especially the pathogenicity) of P. infestans. Fifth, there remain many compelling unanswered questions.

Control of Pierce's Disease by Phage

PubMed Central

Das, Mayukh; Bhowmick, Tushar Suvra; Ahern, Stephen J.; Young, Ry; Gonzalez, Carlos F.

2015-01-01

Pierce’s Disease (PD) of grapevines, caused by Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa (Xf), is a limiting factor in the cultivation of grapevines in the US. There are presently no effective control methods to prevent or treat PD. The therapeutic and prophylactic efficacy of a phage cocktail composed of four virulent (lytic) phages was evaluated for control of PD. Xf levels in grapevines were significantly reduced in therapeutically or prophylactically treated grapevines. PD symptoms ceased to progress one week post-therapeutic treatment and symptoms were not observed in prophylactically treated grapevines. Cocktail phage levels increased in grapevines in the presence of the host. No in planta phage-resistant Xf isolates were obtained. Moreover, Xf mutants selected for phage resistance in vitro did not cause PD symptoms. Our results indicate that phages have great potential for biocontrol of PD and other economically important diseases caused by Xylella. PMID:26107261

Persistent reflux symptoms cause anxiety, depression, and mental health and sleep disorders in gastroesophageal reflux disease patients

PubMed Central

Kimura, Yoshihide; Kamiya, Takeshi; Senoo, Kyouji; Tsuchida, Kenji; Hirano, Atsuyuki; Kojima, Hisayo; Yamashita, Hiroaki; Yamakawa, Yoshihiro; Nishigaki, Nobuhiro; Ozeki, Tomonori; Endo, Masatsugu; Nakanishi, Kazuhisa; Sando, Motoki; Inagaki, Yusuke; Shikano, Michiko; Mizoshita, Tsutomu; Kubota, Eiji; Tanida, Satoshi; Kataoka, Hiromi; Katsumi, Kohei; Joh, Takashi

2016-01-01

Some patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease experience persistent reflux symptoms despite proton pump inhibitor therapy. These symptoms reduce their health-related quality of life. Our aims were to evaluate the relationship between proton pump inhibitor efficacy and health-related quality of life and to evaluate predictive factors affecting treatment response in Japanese patients. Using the gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire, 145 gastroesophageal reflux disease patients undergoing proton pump inhibitor therapy were evaluated and classified as responders or partial-responders. Their health-related quality of life was then evaluated using the 8-item Short Form Health Survey, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaires. Sixty-nine patients (47.6%) were partial responders. These patients had significantly lower scores than responders in 5/8 subscales and in the mental health component summary of the 8-item Short Form Health Survey. Partial responders had significantly higher Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores, including anxiety and depression scores, than those of responders. Non-erosive reflux disease and double proton pump inhibitor doses were predictive factors of partial responders. Persistent reflux symptoms, despite proton pump inhibitor therapy, caused mental health disorders, sleep disorders, and psychological distress in Japanese gastroesophageal reflux disease patients. PMID:27499583

Persistent reflux symptoms cause anxiety, depression, and mental health and sleep disorders in gastroesophageal reflux disease patients.

PubMed

Kimura, Yoshihide; Kamiya, Takeshi; Senoo, Kyouji; Tsuchida, Kenji; Hirano, Atsuyuki; Kojima, Hisayo; Yamashita, Hiroaki; Yamakawa, Yoshihiro; Nishigaki, Nobuhiro; Ozeki, Tomonori; Endo, Masatsugu; Nakanishi, Kazuhisa; Sando, Motoki; Inagaki, Yusuke; Shikano, Michiko; Mizoshita, Tsutomu; Kubota, Eiji; Tanida, Satoshi; Kataoka, Hiromi; Katsumi, Kohei; Joh, Takashi

2016-07-01

Some patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease experience persistent reflux symptoms despite proton pump inhibitor therapy. These symptoms reduce their health-related quality of life. Our aims were to evaluate the relationship between proton pump inhibitor efficacy and health-related quality of life and to evaluate predictive factors affecting treatment response in Japanese patients. Using the gastroesophageal reflux disease questionnaire, 145 gastroesophageal reflux disease patients undergoing proton pump inhibitor therapy were evaluated and classified as responders or partial-responders. Their health-related quality of life was then evaluated using the 8-item Short Form Health Survey, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaires. Sixty-nine patients (47.6%) were partial responders. These patients had significantly lower scores than responders in 5/8 subscales and in the mental health component summary of the 8-item Short Form Health Survey. Partial responders had significantly higher Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores, including anxiety and depression scores, than those of responders. Non-erosive reflux disease and double proton pump inhibitor doses were predictive factors of partial responders. Persistent reflux symptoms, despite proton pump inhibitor therapy, caused mental health disorders, sleep disorders, and psychological distress in Japanese gastroesophageal reflux disease patients.

Reducing the health burden of HPV infection through vaccination.

PubMed

Soper, David

2006-01-01

Human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection and the etiologic cause of genital warts and cervical cancer, is highly prevalent in sexually active men and women. Although cervical screening procedures have significantly reduced the disease burden associated with HPV infection, they are expensive and abnormal results cause significant emotional distress. Therefore, prevention may be an effective strategy for reducing the economic, psychosocial, and disease burden of HPV infection. Multivalent vaccines are now in clinical development. A bivalent vaccine that protects against HPV 16 and 18, and a quadrivalent vaccine which protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, have been shown to significantly reduce the occurrence of incident and persistent HPV infections in phase 2 clinical trials; phase 3 trials are currently underway. HPV vaccines will be most effective when administered prior to initiation of sexual activity, and vaccination campaigns should aggressively target preadolescent and adolescent populations.

Reducing the Health Burden of HPV Infection Through Vaccination

PubMed Central

Soper, David

2006-01-01

Human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection and the etiologic cause of genital warts and cervical cancer, is highly prevalent in sexually active men and women. Although cervical screening procedures have significantly reduced the disease burden associated with HPV infection, they are expensive and abnormal results cause significant emotional distress. Therefore, prevention may be an effective strategy for reducing the economic, psychosocial, and disease burden of HPV infection. Multivalent vaccines are now in clinical development. A bivalent vaccine that protects against HPV 16 and 18, and a quadrivalent vaccine which protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18, have been shown to significantly reduce the occurrence of incident and persistent HPV infections in phase 2 clinical trials; phase 3 trials are currently underway. HPV vaccines will be most effective when administered prior to initiation of sexual activity, and vaccination campaigns should aggressively target preadolescent and adolescent populations. PMID:16967913

Discovery and Optimization of 5-Amino-1,2,3-triazole-4-carboxamide Series against Trypanosoma cruzi.

PubMed

Brand, Stephen; Ko, Eun Jung; Viayna, Elisabet; Thompson, Stephen; Spinks, Daniel; Thomas, Michael; Sandberg, Lars; Francisco, Amanda F; Jayawardhana, Shiromani; Smith, Victoria C; Jansen, Chimed; De Rycker, Manu; Thomas, John; MacLean, Lorna; Osuna-Cabello, Maria; Riley, Jennifer; Scullion, Paul; Stojanovski, Laste; Simeons, Frederick R C; Epemolu, Ola; Shishikura, Yoko; Crouch, Sabrinia D; Bakshi, Tania S; Nixon, Christopher J; Reid, Iain H; Hill, Alan P; Underwood, Tim Z; Hindley, Sean J; Robinson, Sharon A; Kelly, John M; Fiandor, Jose M; Wyatt, Paul G; Marco, Maria; Miles, Timothy J; Read, Kevin D; Gilbert, Ian H

2017-09-14

Chagas' disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is the most common cause of cardiac-related deaths in endemic regions of Latin America. There is an urgent need for new safer treatments because current standard therapeutic options, benznidazole and nifurtimox, have significant side effects and are only effective in the acute phase of the infection with limited efficacy in the chronic phase. Phenotypic high content screening against the intracellular parasite in infected VERO cells was used to identify a novel hit series of 5-amino-1,2,3-triazole-4-carboxamides (ATC). Optimization of the ATC series gave improvements in potency, aqueous solubility, and metabolic stability, which combined to give significant improvements in oral exposure. Mitigation of a potential Ames and hERG liability ultimately led to two promising compounds, one of which demonstrated significant suppression of parasite burden in a mouse model of Chagas' disease.

Advances in retinal imaging for diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema.

PubMed

Tan, Colin Siang Hui; Chew, Milton Cher Yong; Lim, Louis Wei Yi; Sadda, Srinivas R

2016-01-01

Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema (DME) are leading causes of blindness throughout the world, and cause significant visual morbidity. Ocular imaging has played a significant role in the management of diabetic eye disease, and the advent of advanced imaging modalities will be of great value as our understanding of diabetic eye diseases increase, and the management options become increasingly varied and complex. Color fundus photography has established roles in screening for diabetic eye disease, early detection of progression, and monitoring of treatment response. Fluorescein angiography (FA) detects areas of capillary nonperfusion, as well as leakage from both microaneurysms and neovascularization. Recent advances in retinal imaging modalities complement traditional fundus photography and provide invaluable new information for clinicians. Ultra-widefield imaging, which can be used to produce both color fundus photographs and FAs, now allows unprecedented views of the posterior pole. The pathologies that are detected in the periphery of the retina have the potential to change the grading of disease severity, and may be of prognostic significance to disease progression. Studies have shown that peripheral ischemia may be related to the presence and severity of DME. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides structural detail of the retina, and the quantitative and qualitative features are useful in the monitoring of diabetic eye disease. A relatively recent innovation, OCT angiography, produces images of the fine blood vessels at the macula and optic disc, without the need for contrast agents. This paper will review the roles of each of these imaging modalities for diabetic eye disease.

Advances in retinal imaging for diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema

PubMed Central

Tan, Colin Siang Hui; Chew, Milton Cher Yong; Lim, Louis Wei Yi; Sadda, Srinivas R

2016-01-01

Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema (DME) are leading causes of blindness throughout the world, and cause significant visual morbidity. Ocular imaging has played a significant role in the management of diabetic eye disease, and the advent of advanced imaging modalities will be of great value as our understanding of diabetic eye diseases increase, and the management options become increasingly varied and complex. Color fundus photography has established roles in screening for diabetic eye disease, early detection of progression, and monitoring of treatment response. Fluorescein angiography (FA) detects areas of capillary nonperfusion, as well as leakage from both microaneurysms and neovascularization. Recent advances in retinal imaging modalities complement traditional fundus photography and provide invaluable new information for clinicians. Ultra-widefield imaging, which can be used to produce both color fundus photographs and FAs, now allows unprecedented views of the posterior pole. The pathologies that are detected in the periphery of the retina have the potential to change the grading of disease severity, and may be of prognostic significance to disease progression. Studies have shown that peripheral ischemia may be related to the presence and severity of DME. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides structural detail of the retina, and the quantitative and qualitative features are useful in the monitoring of diabetic eye disease. A relatively recent innovation, OCT angiography, produces images of the fine blood vessels at the macula and optic disc, without the need for contrast agents. This paper will review the roles of each of these imaging modalities for diabetic eye disease. PMID:26953028

Studies of the aggregation of mutant proteins in vitro provide insights into the genetics of amyloid diseases.

PubMed

Chiti, Fabrizio; Calamai, Martino; Taddei, Niccolo; Stefani, Massimo; Ramponi, Giampietro; Dobson, Christopher M

2002-12-10

Protein aggregation and the formation of highly insoluble amyloid structures is associated with a range of debilitating human conditions, which include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and the Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. Muscle acylphosphatase (AcP) has already provided significant insights into mutational changes that modulate amyloid formation. In the present paper, we have used this system to investigate the effects of mutations that modify the charge state of a protein without affecting significantly the hydrophobicity or secondary structural propensities of the polypeptide chain. A highly significant inverse correlation was found to exist between the rates of aggregation of the protein variants under denaturing conditions and their overall net charge. This result indicates that aggregation is generally favored by mutations that bring the net charge of the protein closer to neutrality. In light of this finding, we have analyzed natural mutations associated with familial forms of amyloid diseases that involve alteration of the net charge of the proteins or protein fragments associated with the diseases. Sixteen mutations have been identified for which the mechanism of action that causes the pathological condition is not yet known or fully understood. Remarkably, 14 of these 16 mutations cause the net charge of the corresponding peptide or protein that converts into amyloid deposits to be reduced. This result suggests that charge has been a key parameter in molecular evolution to ensure the avoidance of protein aggregation and identifies reduction of the net charge as an important determinant in at least some forms of protein deposition diseases.

Tuberculosis at Raffic Hariri University Hospital (RHUH) during 10 years period 2005-2015, cross sectional, observational study.

PubMed

Zadeh, Catherina; Tayara, Loubna

2018-07-01

Tuberculosis is a contagious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It represents, according to WHO, one of the most leading causes of death worldwide. 1 BACKGROUND: Based on our regional conditions, such as Syrian immigration, poor nutritional status, are contributors for the development of the disease. This was a retrospective analytical cross sectional study done to review all cases of tuberculosis newly diagnosed at RHUH during 10 years period (2005-2015). 128 TB labeled patients were retrieved. A standardized checklist was used to collect data. Patients were then classified as TB diseased and TB infected. The total number of TB suspected patients was 128 over 10 years which represents 1.77% of all patients admitted to the medical floor. Among these, the total number of PPD positive patients was 40.6% from our study population (2005-2015), 48% were TB infected and 52% had positive CXR. Among those with positive CXR, 41% were confirmed TB disease and 59% not confirmed TB disease. There was significant variation in evolution through years (2005-2015). By comparing the socio-demographic findings between TB disease, TB infection and non-TB group no statistical significance was found. Same analysis were repeated between TB infection and TB disease groups showed one significant association between age and TB disease vs. TB infection (p=0.034), where the younger population belongs to TB infected group (42%), while 50% of TB diseased group were older. As for scoring severity index, ANOVA in the three groups showed a significant association with a p value of 0.046. The TB diseased patients have the highest severity score index. TB disease is still present in Lebanon with fluctuating level with the highest peak found in 2013 explained by the influx of Syrian refugee population. Followed by a gradual drop in the following years. The younger population belongs to TB infected group, while TB disease patients had the most severe clinical course compared to TB infected and non TB patients. Copyright © 2017 Tuberculosis Association of India. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Toxicity of Pythium oligandrum broth to animal and its control effect on rot diseases caused by Penicillium italicum and Penicillium digitatum in orange fruit storage].

PubMed

Tan, Yan; Peng, Liangzhi; Yuan, Ling; Wang, Shaobo

2015-11-04

In order to develop a safe, nontoxic and efficient biological antistaling agent and to decrease the incidence of rot diseases caused by the Penicillium italicum and Penicillium digitatum in orange fruit storage. the present experiment was carried out with Pythium oligandrum broth (POB) produced by our self-isolated strain (P. oligandrum CQ2010) to study the toxicity to animal. Thereafter, mycelium growth and spore germination of both P. digitatum and P. italicum and control effect of rot disease in orange storage were compared after treated by liquid culture medium (control), POB, prochloraz (PC) , and PC + POB. Gastric lavage with large amount POB did not influence mouse weight. The animals also showed no abnormality in appearance, behaviors and pathology changes in heart, liver, kidney, lung and intestine. POB decreased the hyphal growth by 70.24% - 93.74% and spore germination by 44.91% - 87.82% (24 h after POB addition) of these two pathogenic fungi. Disease incidence of orange fruit following P. italicum inoculation changed in the sequence: CK > POB > PC > PC + POB and the control efficacy behaved otherwise. In commercial simulation storage, the disease incidence of orange fruit caused by P. digitatum and P. italicum was above 50% of the total. The fruit rot rate was 26.40% (CK), 15.03% (POB), 16.61% (PC) and 4.21% (PC + POB). There were no significant differences in fruit quality under different treatments. POB was safe to animal and could decrease rot disease incidence caused by P. italicum and P. digitatum in orange storage whereby producing a positive interaction with prochloraz and controlling rot diseases caused by these two fungi.

Impact of persistence and non-persistence in leisure time physical activity on coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality: The Copenhagen City Heart Study.

PubMed

Schnohr, Peter; O'Keefe, James H; Lange, Peter; Jensen, Gorm Boje; Marott, Jacob Louis

2017-10-01

Aims The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of persistence and non-persistence in leisure time physical activity on coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality. Methods and results In the Copenhagen City Heart Study, we prospectively followed 12,314 healthy subjects for 33 years of maximum follow-up with at least two repeated measures of physical activity. The association between persistence and non-persistence in leisure time physical activity, coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality were assessed by multivariable Cox regression analyses. Coronary heart disease mortality for persistent physical activity in leisure compared to persistent sedentary activity were: light hazard ratio (HR) 0.76; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63-0.92, moderate HR 0.52; 95% CI 0.41-0.67, and high physical activity HR 0.51; 95% CI, 0.30-0.88. The differences in longevity were 2.8 years for light, 4.5 years for moderate and 5.5 years for high physical activity. A substantial increase in physical activity was associated with lower coronary heart disease mortality (HR 0.75; 95% CI 0.52-1.08) corresponding to 2.4 years longer life, whereas a substantial decrease in physical activity was associated with higher coronary heart disease mortality (HR 1.61; 95% CI 1.11-2.33) corresponding to 4.2 years shorter life than the unchanged group. A similar pattern was observed for all-cause mortality. Conclusion We found inverse dose-response relationships between persistent leisure time physical activity and both coronary heart disease and all-cause mortality. A substantial increase in physical activity was associated with a significant gain in longevity, whereas a decrease in physical activity was associated with even greater loss of longevity.

A GENOME WIDE ASSOCIATION STUDY FOR DIABETIC NEPHROPATHY GENES IN AFRICAN AMERICANS

PubMed Central

McDonough, Caitrin W.; Palmer, Nicholette D.; Hicks, Pamela J.; Roh, Bong H.; An, S. Sandy; Cooke, Jessica N.; Hester, Jessica M.; Wing, Maria R.; Bostrom, Meredith A.; Rudock, Megan E.; Lewis, Joshua P.; Talbert, Matthew E.; Blevins, Rebecca A.; Lu, Lingyi; Ng, Maggie C.Y.; Sale, Michele M.; Divers, Jasmin; Langefeld, Carl D.; Freedman, Barry I.; Bowden, Donald W.

2011-01-01

A genome-wide association study was performed using the Affymetrix 6.0 chip to identify genes associated with diabetic nephropathy in African Americans. Association analysis was performed adjusting for admixture in 965 type 2 diabetic African American patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and in 1029 African Americans without type 2 diabetes or kidney disease as controls. The top 724 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with evidence of association to diabetic nephropathy were then genotyped in a replication sample of an additional 709 type 2 diabetes-ESRD patients and 690 controls. SNPs with evidence of association in both the original and replication studies were tested in additional African American cohorts consisting of 1246 patients with type 2 diabetes without kidney disease and 1216 with non-diabetic ESRD to differentiate candidate loci for type 2 diabetes-ESRD, type 2 diabetes, and/or all-cause ESRD. Twenty-five SNPs were significantly associated with type 2 diabetes-ESRD in the genome-wide association and initial replication. Although genome-wide significance with type 2 diabetes was not found for any of these 25 SNPs, several genes, including RPS12, LIMK2, and SFI1 are strong candidates for diabetic nephropathy. A combined analysis of all 2890 patients with ESRD showed significant association SNPs in LIMK2 and SFI1 suggesting that they also contribute to all-cause ESRD. Thus, our results suggest that multiple loci underlie susceptibility to kidney disease in African Americans with type 2 diabetes and some may also contribute to all-cause ESRD. PMID:21150874

A genome-wide association study for diabetic nephropathy genes in African Americans.

PubMed

McDonough, Caitrin W; Palmer, Nicholette D; Hicks, Pamela J; Roh, Bong H; An, S Sandy; Cooke, Jessica N; Hester, Jessica M; Wing, Maria R; Bostrom, Meredith A; Rudock, Megan E; Lewis, Joshua P; Talbert, Matthew E; Blevins, Rebecca A; Lu, Lingyi; Ng, Maggie C Y; Sale, Michele M; Divers, Jasmin; Langefeld, Carl D; Freedman, Barry I; Bowden, Donald W

2011-03-01

A genome-wide association study was performed using the Affymetrix 6.0 chip to identify genes associated with diabetic nephropathy in African Americans. Association analysis was performed adjusting for admixture in 965 type 2 diabetic African American patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and in 1029 African Americans without type 2 diabetes or kidney disease as controls. The top 724 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with evidence of association to diabetic nephropathy were then genotyped in a replication sample of an additional 709 type 2 diabetes-ESRD patients and 690 controls. SNPs with evidence of association in both the original and replication studies were tested in additional African American cohorts consisting of 1246 patients with type 2 diabetes without kidney disease and 1216 with non-diabetic ESRD to differentiate candidate loci for type 2 diabetes-ESRD, type 2 diabetes, and/or all-cause ESRD. Twenty-five SNPs were significantly associated with type 2 diabetes-ESRD in the genome-wide association and initial replication. Although genome-wide significance with type 2 diabetes was not found for any of these 25 SNPs, several genes, including RPS12, LIMK2, and SFI1 are strong candidates for diabetic nephropathy. A combined analysis of all 2890 patients with ESRD showed significant association SNPs in LIMK2 and SFI1 suggesting that they also contribute to all-cause ESRD. Thus, our results suggest that multiple loci underlie susceptibility to kidney disease in African Americans with type 2 diabetes and some may also contribute to all-cause ESRD.

Mortality among blood donors seropositive and seronegative for Chagas disease (1996–2000) in São Paulo, Brazil: A death certificate linkage study

PubMed Central

Bierrenbach, Ana Luiza; Pereira Alencar, Airlane; Mendrone, Alfredo; Ferreira, João Eduardo; Custer, Brian; P. Ribeiro, Antonio Luiz; Cerdeira Sabino, Ester

2017-01-01

Background Individuals in the indeterminate phase of Chagas disease are considered to have mortality rates similar to those of the overall population. This study compares mortality rates among blood donors seropositive for Chagas disease and negative controls in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Methodology/principal findings This is a retrospective cohort study of blood donors from 1996 to 2000: 2842 seropositive and 5684 seronegative for Chagas disease. Death status was ascertained by performing probabilistic record linkage (RL) with the Brazil national mortality information system (SIM). RL was assessed in a previous validation study. Cox Regression was used to derive hazard ratios (HR), adjusting for confounders. RL identified 159 deaths among the 2842 seropositive blood donors (5.6%) and 103 deaths among the 5684 seronegative (1.8%). Out of the 159 deaths among seropositive donors, 26 had the 10th International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) indicating Chagas disease as the underlying cause of death (B57.0/B57.5), 23 had ICD-10 codes (I42.0/I42.2/I47.0/I47.2/I49.0/I50.0/I50.1/ I50.9/I51.7) indicating cardiac abnormalities possibly related to Chagas disease listed as an underlying or associated cause of death, with the others having no mention of Chagas disease in part I of the death certificate. Donors seropositive for Chagas disease had a 2.3 times higher risk of death due to all causes (95% Confidence Interval (95% CI), 1.8–3.0) than seronegative donors. When considering deaths due to Chagas disease or those that had underlying causes of cardiac abnormalities related to Chagas disease, seropositive donors had a risk of death 17.9 (95% CI, 6.3–50.8) times greater than seronegative donors. Conclusions/significance There is an excess risk of death in donors seropositive blood for Chagas disease compared to seronegative donors. Chagas disease is an under-reported cause of death in the Brazilian mortality database. PMID:28545053

The correlation between visual acuity and color vision as an indicator of the cause of visual loss.

PubMed

Almog, Yehoshua; Nemet, Arie

2010-06-01

To explore the correlation between visual acuity (VA) and color vision and to establish a guide for the diagnosis of the cause of visual loss based on this correlation. Retrospective comparative evaluation of a diagnostic test. A total of 259 patients with visual impairment caused by 1 of 4 possible disease categories were included. Patients were divided into 4 groups according to the etiology of visual loss: 1) optic neuropathies, 2) macular diseases, 3) media opacities, and 4) amblyopia. The best-corrected VA was established and a standard Ishihara 15 color plates was tested and correlated to the VA in every group separately. Correlation between the VA and the color vision along the different etiologies was evaluated. Frequency of each combination of color vision and VA in every disease category was established. VA is correlated with color vision in all 4 disease categories. For the same degree of VA loss, patients with optic neuropathy are most likely and patients with amblyopia are the least expected to have a significant color vision loss. Patients with optic neuropathy had considerably worse average color vision (6.7/15) compared to patients in the other 3 disease categories: 11.1/15 (macular diseases), 13.2/15 (media opacities), and 13.4/15 (amblyopia). Diseases of the optic nerve affect color vision earlier and more profoundly than other diseases. When the cause of visual loss is uncertain, the correlation between the severity of color vision and VA loss can imply the possible etiology of the visual loss. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Total, dietary, and supplemental calcium intake and mortality from all-causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer: A meta-analysis of observational studies.

PubMed

Asemi, Z; Saneei, P; Sabihi, S-S; Feizi, A; Esmaillzadeh, A

2015-07-01

This systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies was conducted to summarize the evidence on the association between calcium intake and mortality. PubMed, Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) (Web of Science), SCOPUS, SciRUS, Google Scholar, and Excerpta Medica dataBASE (EMBASE) were searched to identify related articles published through May 2014. We found 22 articles that assessed the association between total, dietary, and supplementary intake with mortality from all-causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer. Findings from this meta-analysis revealed no significant association between total and dietary calcium intake and mortality from all-causes, CVD, and cancer. Subgroup analysis by the duration of follow-up revealed a significant positive association between total calcium intake and CVD mortality for cohort studies with a mean follow-up duration of >10 years (relative risk (RR): 1.35; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09-1.68). A significant inverse association was seen between dietary calcium intake and all-cause (RR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.70-1.00) and CVD mortality (RR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.78-0.99) for studies with a mean follow-up duration of ≤10 years. Although supplemental calcium intake was not associated with CVD (RR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.82-1.10) and cancer mortality (RR: 1.22; 95% CI: 0.81-1.84), it was inversely associated with the risk of all-cause mortality (RR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.88-0.94). We found a significant relationship between the total calcium intake and an increased risk of CVD mortality for studies with a long follow-up time and a significant protective association between dietary calcium intake and all-cause and CVD mortality for studies with a mean follow-up of ≤10 years. Supplemental calcium intake was associated with a decreased risk of all-cause mortality. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Baseline Predictors of Mortality among Predominantly Rural-Dwelling End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on Chronic Dialysis Therapies in Limpopo, South Africa

PubMed Central

Mapiye, Darlington; Swanepoel, Charles R.; Bello, Aminu K.; Ratsela, Andrew R.; Okpechi, Ikechi G.

2016-01-01

Background Dialysis therapy for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) continues to be the readily available renal replacement option in developing countries. While the impact of rural/remote dwelling on mortality among dialysis patients in developed countries is known, it remains to be defined in sub-Saharan Africa. Methods A single-center database of end-stage renal disease patients on chronic dialysis therapies treated between 2007 and 2014 at the Polokwane Kidney and Dialysis Centre (PKDC) of the Pietersburg Provincial Hospital, Limpopo South Africa, was retrospectively reviewed. All-cause, cardiovascular, and infection-related mortalities were assessed and associated baseline predictors determined. Results Of the 340 patients reviewed, 52.1% were male, 92.9% were black Africans, 1.8% were positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and 87.5% were rural dwellers. The average distance travelled to the dialysis centre was 112.3 ± 73.4 Km while 67.6% of patients lived in formal housing. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at dialysis initiation was 7.1 ± 3.7 mls/min while hemodialysis (HD) was the predominant modality offered (57.1%). Ninety-two (92) deaths were recorded over the duration of follow-up with the majority (34.8%) of deaths arising from infection-related causes. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) was a significant predictor of all-cause mortality (HR: 1.62, CI: 1.07–2.46) and infection-related mortality (HR: 2.27, CI: 1.13–4.60). On multivariable cox regression, CAPD remained a significant predictor of all-cause mortality (HR: 2.00, CI: 1.29–3.10) while the risk of death among CAPD patients was also significantly modified by diabetes mellitus (DM) status (HR: 4.99, CI: 2.13–11.71). Conclusion CAPD among predominantly rural dwelling patients in the Limpopo province of South Africa is associated with an increased risk of death from all-causes and infection-related causes. PMID:27300372

Burden of vaccine-preventable pneumococcal disease in hospitalized adults: A Canadian Immunization Research Network (CIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance (SOS) network study.

PubMed

LeBlanc, Jason J; ElSherif, May; Ye, Lingyun; MacKinnon-Cameron, Donna; Li, Li; Ambrose, Ardith; Hatchette, Todd F; Lang, Amanda L; Gillis, Hayley; Martin, Irene; Andrew, Melissa K; Boivin, Guy; Bowie, William; Green, Karen; Johnstone, Jennie; Loeb, Mark; McCarthy, Anne; McGeer, Allison; Moraca, Sanela; Semret, Makeda; Stiver, Grant; Trottier, Sylvie; Valiquette, Louis; Webster, Duncan; McNeil, Shelly A

2017-06-22

Pneumococcal community acquired pneumonia (CAP Spn ) and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although childhood immunization programs have reduced the overall burden of pneumococcal disease, there is insufficient data in Canada to inform immunization policy in immunocompetent adults. This study aimed to describe clinical outcomes of pneumococcal disease in hospitalized Canadian adults, and determine the proportion of cases caused by vaccine-preventable serotypes. Active surveillance for CAP Spn and IPD in hospitalized adults was performed in hospitals across five Canadian provinces from December 2010 to 2013. CAP Spn were identified using sputum culture, blood culture, a commercial pan-pneumococcal urine antigen detection (UAD), or a serotype-specific UAD. The serotype distribution was characterized using Quellung reaction, and PCR-based serotyping on cultured isolates, or using a 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) serotype-specific UAD assay. In total, 4769 all-cause CAP cases and 81 cases of IPD (non-CAP) were identified. Of the 4769 all-cause CAP cases, a laboratory test for S. pneumoniae was performed in 3851, identifying 14.3% as CAP Spn . Of CAP cases among whom all four diagnostic test were performed, S. pneumoniae was identified in 23.2% (144/621). CAP Spn cases increased with age and the disease burden of illness was evident in terms of requirement for mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit admission, and 30-day mortality. Of serotypeable CAP Spn or IPD results, predominance for serotypes 3, 7F, 19A, and 22F was observed. The proportion of hospitalized CAP cases caused by a PCV13-type S. pneumoniae ranged between 7.0% and 14.8% among cases with at least one test for S. pneumoniae performed or in whom all four diagnostic tests were performed, respectively. Overall, vaccine-preventable pneumococcal CAP and IPD were shown to be significant causes of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized Canadian adults in the three years following infant PCV13 immunization programs in Canada. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease-Causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus Strains Maintain an Antibacterial Type VI Secretion System with Versatile Effector Repertoires.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Kinch, Lisa N; Ray, Ann; Dalia, Ankur B; Cong, Qian; Nunan, Linda M; Camilli, Andrew; Grishin, Nick V; Salomon, Dor; Orth, Kim

2017-07-01

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a newly emerging shrimp disease that has severely damaged the global shrimp industry. AHPND is caused by toxic strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus that have acquired a "selfish plasmid" encoding the deadly binary toxins PirA vp /PirB vp To better understand the repertoire of virulence factors in AHPND-causing V. parahaemolyticus , we conducted a comparative analysis using the genome sequences of the clinical strain RIMD2210633 and of environmental non-AHPND and toxic AHPND isolates of V. parahaemolyticus Interestingly, we found that all of the AHPND strains, but none of the non-AHPND strains, harbor the antibacterial type VI secretion system 1 (T6SS1), which we previously identified and characterized in the clinical isolate RIMD2210633. This finding suggests that the acquisition of this T6SS might confer to AHPND-causing V. parahaemolyticus a fitness advantage over competing bacteria and facilitate shrimp infection. Additionally, we found highly dynamic effector loci in the T6SS1 of AHPND-causing strains, leading to diverse effector repertoires. Our discovery provides novel insights into AHPND-causing pathogens and reveals a potential target for disease control. IMPORTANCE Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a serious disease that has caused severe damage and significant financial losses to the global shrimp industry. To better understand and prevent this shrimp disease, it is essential to thoroughly characterize its causative agent, Vibrio parahaemolyticus Although the plasmid-encoded binary toxins PirA vp /PirB vp have been shown to be the primary cause of AHPND, it remains unknown whether other virulent factors are commonly present in V. parahaemolyticus and might play important roles during shrimp infection. Here, we analyzed the genome sequences of clinical, non-AHPND, and AHPND strains to characterize their repertoires of key virulence determinants. Our studies reveal that an antibacterial type VI secretion system is associated with the AHPND strains and differentiates them from non-AHPND strains, similar to what was seen with the PirA/PirB toxins. We propose that T6SS1 provides a selective advantage during shrimp infections. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease-Causing Vibrio parahaemolyticus Strains Maintain an Antibacterial Type VI Secretion System with Versatile Effector Repertoires

PubMed Central

Li, Peng; Kinch, Lisa N.; Ray, Ann; Dalia, Ankur B.; Nunan, Linda M.; Camilli, Andrew; Grishin, Nick V.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a newly emerging shrimp disease that has severely damaged the global shrimp industry. AHPND is caused by toxic strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus that have acquired a “selfish plasmid” encoding the deadly binary toxins PirAvp/PirBvp. To better understand the repertoire of virulence factors in AHPND-causing V. parahaemolyticus, we conducted a comparative analysis using the genome sequences of the clinical strain RIMD2210633 and of environmental non-AHPND and toxic AHPND isolates of V. parahaemolyticus. Interestingly, we found that all of the AHPND strains, but none of the non-AHPND strains, harbor the antibacterial type VI secretion system 1 (T6SS1), which we previously identified and characterized in the clinical isolate RIMD2210633. This finding suggests that the acquisition of this T6SS might confer to AHPND-causing V. parahaemolyticus a fitness advantage over competing bacteria and facilitate shrimp infection. Additionally, we found highly dynamic effector loci in the T6SS1 of AHPND-causing strains, leading to diverse effector repertoires. Our discovery provides novel insights into AHPND-causing pathogens and reveals a potential target for disease control. IMPORTANCE Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) is a serious disease that has caused severe damage and significant financial losses to the global shrimp industry. To better understand and prevent this shrimp disease, it is essential to thoroughly characterize its causative agent, Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Although the plasmid-encoded binary toxins PirAvp/PirBvp have been shown to be the primary cause of AHPND, it remains unknown whether other virulent factors are commonly present in V. parahaemolyticus and might play important roles during shrimp infection. Here, we analyzed the genome sequences of clinical, non-AHPND, and AHPND strains to characterize their repertoires of key virulence determinants. Our studies reveal that an antibacterial type VI secretion system is associated with the AHPND strains and differentiates them from non-AHPND strains, similar to what was seen with the PirA/PirB toxins. We propose that T6SS1 provides a selective advantage during shrimp infections. PMID:28432099

Expression Changes of Apoptotic Genes in Tissues from Mice Exposed to Nicotine

PubMed Central

Jalili, Cyrus; Salahshoor, Mohammad Reza; Moradi, Mohammad Taher; Ahookhash, Maryam; Taghadosi, Mehdi; Sohrabi, Maryam

2017-01-01

Objective: Smoking is the leading preventable cause of various diseases such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular disease. Nicotine, one of the major toxic components of tobacco, contributes to the pathogenesis of different diseases. Methods: Given the controversy about nicotine toxicity, the present study was conducted to determine apoptotic effects of nicotine on the heart, kidney, lung and liver of male mice. Real-time PCR was performed to identify mRNA expression changes in apoptotic-related genes between nicotine treated and control mice. Result: In the heart and lung, nicotine caused significant decrease in P53, Bax and Caspase-3 mRNA expression levels compared to the control group. However, in the kidney and liver, the result was significant increase in Bax, Caspase-2, Caspase-3 and a significant decrease in P53 mRNA expression (p<0.01). DNA fragmentation assays indicated no fragmentation in the heart and lung, but in the kidney and liver of nicotine treated mice, isolated DNA was fragmented. Conclusion: Our study provided insight into the molecular mechanisms of nicotine anti-apoptotic effects on the heart and lung as well as pro-apoptotic effects on kidney and liver via a P53-independent pathway. PMID:28240526

Pre- and postharvest fungal apple diseases

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The domesticated apple (Malus domestica) is the most significant pome fruit grown and consumed worldwide. China is the largest producer followed by the United States on a global scale. However, fungal plant pathogens cause significant economic losses in the field and in storage which negatively impa...

Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Children With Kidney Disease.

PubMed

Sethna, Christine B; Merchant, Kumail; Reyes, Abigail

2018-05-01

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in individuals diagnosed with kidney disease during childhood. Children with kidney disease often incur a significant cardiovascular burden that leads to increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Evidence has shown that children with kidney disease, including chronic kidney disease, dialysis, kidney transplantation, and nephrotic syndrome, develop abnormalities in cardiovascular markers such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, left ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricular dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and aortic stiffness. Early identification of modifiable risk factors and treatment may lead to a decrease of long-term cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but evidence in this population is lacking. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Diseases of American lobsters (Homarus americanus): a review.

PubMed

Cawthorn, Richard J

2011-01-01

The American lobster fishery is a significant economic driver in coastal communities of North America. Increasingly, the impacts of infectious disease are recognized as important components and factors in the population ecology and subsequent management of the lobster fishery. Both environmental and anthropogenic factors impact marine diseases. The review herein highlights aspects of several important bacterial, fungal and protistan diseases, including gaffkemia, shell disease, vibriosis, disease caused by species of Lagenidium, Haliphthoros and Fusarium, paramoebiasis and Bumper Car disease. As the global environment continues to change, these diseases could more severely affect both wild caught and impounded lobsters. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Legionnaire's Disease: A Clinical Diagnostic Approach.

PubMed

Cunha, Burke A; Cunha, Cheston B

2017-03-01

Legionnaire's disease is a nonzoonotic atypical pneumonia caused by Legionella sp that occurs sporadically or in outbreaks. Legionnaire's disease pneumonia is accompanied by several extrapulmonary clinical and laboratory findings. Rather than testing all pneumonias for Legionnaire's disease, the clinical challenge is to recognize the diagnostic significance of Legionnaire's disease's. The pretest probability of Legionnaire's disease is increased if several characteristic extrapulmonary findings are present. Similarly, if certain key findings are absent, Legionnaire's disease may be eliminated from further diagnostic consideration. If characteristic clinical findings are present, then specific tests should be ordered to confirm or rule out Legionnaire's disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors, Sleeping Environment, for Allergic Diseases in Infant: Analysis of a Data Subset from the South Kyushu and Okinawa Study Area of Japan Environment and Children's Study.

PubMed

Miyazaki, Wataru; Lu, Xi; Oda, Masako; Kuroda, Yoshiki; Aoki, Kazuo; Mitsubuchi, Hiroshi; Ohba, Takashi; Katoh, Takahiko

2016-01-01

The incidence of infant allergic diseases have increased recently, and it may be caused by multiple influences of both genetic and environmental factors from the fetal stage through infancy. In this study, we analyzed a data subset from the South Kyushu and Okinawa (SKO) Study Area of Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS) to determine the relationship of allergic diseases in infants with mothers' characteristics and/or infants' life habits, especially sleeping. A total of 3873 mother-infant pairs from the SKO Regional Center of JECS were included. The mothers responded to questionnaires in the first trimester of their pregnancy and the self-reported questionnaire when their infants were 1 year old. Student's t-test, chi-square test, trend test, and logistic regression analysis were carried out to analyze the associations between the infants' allergic diseases and the mothers' genetic characteristics and/or sleeping habits of infants. Maternal allergic diseases were significantly associated with increased infant allergy risk (OR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.63-2.27). The number of allergic diseases of mothers was also significantly associated with infant allergy, and the trend test showed an increasing risk of infant allergy (p<0.001). Regarding infants' life habits, the infants who sleep in the prone position had a higher allergic disease risk than those who sleep in other positions (OR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.17-1.83). These significant associations were observed regardless of the presence of allergy in mothers. This study suggests that the development of allergic diseases in infants may be caused by the multiple participation of both genetic and environmental factors.

Cytokine profiling reveals decreased serum levels of CCL2 in active ocular toxoplasmosis.

PubMed

Rey, Amanda; Molins, Blanca; Llorenç, Victor; Pelegrín, Laura; Mesquida, Marina; Adán, Alfredo

2013-10-01

Toxoplasma gondii infection is an important cause of ocular disease. Although parasite-mediated host cell lysis is probably the principal cause of tissue destruction in immunodeficiency states, hypersensitivity and inflammatory responses may underlie severe disease in otherwise immunocompetent individuals. The purpose of the current investigation was to study the cytokine profiles in serum from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis and to compare them with those obtained from healthy control subjects. Using a multiplex assay, we determined the serum concentration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF), interferon γ (IFNγ), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) in patients with inactive ocular toxoplasmosis (n=48), active ocular toxoplasmosis (n=21), and an age-matched and sex-matched healthy control group (n=25). In a subgroup of 17 patients with active disease, a second serum sample was obtained when the disease was inactive. Cytokine profiles were correlated with disease activity, severity and visual outcome. Levels of CCL2 were significantly reduced in patients with active ocular toxoplasmosis compared to the control group (564 ± 42 pg/mL vs 455 ± 35 pg/mL, p<0.05). Moreover, CCL2 levels were significantly lower during active ocular toxoplasmosis compared to inactive disease (569 ± 32 pg/mL vs 433 ± 32 pg/mL, p<0.01). GCSF and TNFα were elevated in patients with toxoplasmosis with poor visual outcome. No significant correlations were found with specific cytokine profiles and disease severity. Decreased serum levels of CCL2 may be associated with active ocular toxoplasmosis and could therefore serve as a marker of disease activity.

Multifactorial discrimination as a fundamental cause of mental health inequities.

PubMed

Khan, Mariam; Ilcisin, Misja; Saxton, Katherine

2017-03-04

The theory of fundamental causes explains why health disparities persist over time, even as risk factors, mechanisms, and diseases change. Using an intersectional framework, we evaluated multifactorial discrimination as a fundamental cause of mental health disparities. Using baseline data from the Project STRIDE: Stress, Identity, and Mental Health study, we examined the health effects of discrimination among individuals who self-identified as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. We used logistic and linear regression to assess whether multifactorial discrimination met the four criteria designating a fundamental cause, namely that the cause: 1) influences multiple health outcomes, 2) affects multiple risk factors, 3) involves access to resources that can be leveraged to reduce consequences of disease, and 4) reproduces itself in varied contexts through changing mechanisms. Multifactorial discrimination predicted high depression scores, psychological well-being, and substance use disorder diagnosis. Discrimination was positively associated with risk factors for high depression scores: chronic strain and total number of stressful life events. Discrimination was associated with significantly lower levels of mastery and self-esteem, protective factors for depressive symptomatology. Even after controlling for risk factors, discrimination remained a significant predictor for high depression scores. Among subjects with low depression scores, multifactorial discrimination also predicted anxiety and aggregate mental health scores. Multifactorial discrimination should be considered a fundamental cause of mental health inequities and may be an important cause of broad health disparities among populations with intersecting social identities.

What predicts depression in cardiac patients: sociodemographic factors, disease severity or theoretical vulnerabilities?

PubMed

Doyle, F; McGee, H M; Conroy, R M; Delaney, M

2011-05-01

Depression is associated with increased cardiovascular risk in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients, but some argue that elevated depression is actually a marker of cardiovascular disease severity. Therefore, disease indices should better predict depression than established theoretical causes of depression (interpersonal life events, reinforcing events, cognitive distortions, type D personality). However, little theory-based research has been conducted in this area. In a cross-sectional design, ACS patients (n = 336) completed questionnaires assessing depression and psychosocial vulnerabilities. Nested logistic regression assessed the relative contribution of demographic or vulnerability factors, or disease indices or vulnerabilities to depression. In multivariate analysis, all vulnerabilities were independent significant predictors of depression (scoring above threshold on any scale, 48%). Demographic variables accounted for <1% of the variance of depression status, with vulnerabilities accounting for significantly more (pseudo R² = 0.16, χ²(change) = 150.9, df = 4, p < 0.001). Disease indices accounted for 7% of the variance in depression (pseudo R² = 0.07, χ² = 137.9, p < 0.001). However, adding the vulnerabilities increased the overall variance explained to 22% (pseudo R² = 0.22, χ² = 58.6, df = 4, p < 0.001). Theoretical vulnerabilities predicted depression status better than did either demographic or disease indices. The presence of these proximal causes of depression suggests that depression in ACS patients is not simply a result of cardiovascular disease severity.

Surgery for Peptic Ulcer Disease in sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic Review of Published Data.

PubMed

Rickard, Jennifer

2016-04-01

Peptic ulcer disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a significant burden in low- and middle-income countries. However, there is limited information regarding management of peptic ulcer disease in these countries. This study describes surgical interventions for peptic ulcer disease in sub-Saharan Africa. A systematic review was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and African Index Medicus for studies describing surgical management of peptic ulcer disease in sub-Saharan Africa. From 55 published reports, 6594 patients underwent surgery for peptic ulcer disease. Most ulcers (86%) were duodenal with the remainder gastric (14%). Thirty-five percent of operations were performed for perforation, 7% for bleeding, 30% for obstruction, and 28% for chronic disease. Common operations included vagotomy (60%) and primary repair (31%). The overall case fatality rate for peptic ulcer disease was 5.7% and varied with indication for operation: 13.6% for perforation, 11.5% for bleeding, 0.5% for obstruction, and 0.3% for chronic disease. Peptic ulcer disease remains a significant indication for surgery in sub-Saharan Africa. Recognizing the continued role of surgery for peptic ulcer disease in sub-Saharan Africa is important for strengthening surgical training programs and optimizing allocation of resources.

Major parasitic diseases of poverty in mainland China: perspectives for better control.

PubMed

Wang, Jin-Lei; Li, Ting-Ting; Huang, Si-Yang; Cong, Wei; Zhu, Xing-Quan

2016-08-01

Significant progress has been made in the prevention, control, and elimination of human parasitic diseases in China in the past 60 years. However, parasitic diseases of poverty remain major causes of morbidity and mortality, and inflict enormous economic costs on societies.In this article, we review the prevalence rates, geographical distributions, epidemic characteristics, risk factors, and clinical manifestations of parasitic diseases of poverty listed in the first issue of the journal Infectious Diseases of Poverty on 25 October 2012. We also address the challenges facing control of parasitic diseases of poverty and provide suggestions for better control.

Etiology and mode of presentation of chronic liver diseases in India: A multi centric study.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Partha S; Vishnubhatla, Sreenivas; Amarapurkar, Deepak N; Das, Kausik; Sood, Ajit; Chawla, Yogesh K; Eapen, Chundamannil E; Boddu, Prabhakar; Thomas, Varghese; Varshney, Subodh; Hidangmayum, Diamond Sharma; Bhaumik, Pradip; Thakur, Bhaskar; Acharya, Subrat K; Chowdhury, Abhijit

2017-01-01

There is a paucity of health policy relevant data for chronic liver disease from India, impeding formulation of an interventional strategy to address the issue. A prospective, multicentric study to delineate the etiology and clinical profile of chronic liver disease in India is reported here. A centrally coordinated and monitored web-based data repository was developed (Feb, 2010 to Jan, 2013) and analyzed. Eleven hospitals from different parts of India participated. Data were uploaded into a web based proforma and monitored by a single centre according to a standardized protocol. 1.28% (n = 266621) of all patients (n = 20701383) attending the eleven participating hospitals of India had liver disease. 65807 (24·68%) were diagnosed for the first time (new cases). Of these, 13014 (19·77%, median age 43 years, 73% males) cases of chronic liver disease were finally analyzed. 33.9% presented with decompensated cirrhosis. Alcoholism (34·3% of 4413) was the commonest cause of cirrhosis while Hepatitis B (33·3%) was predominant cause of chronic liver disease in general and non-cirrhotic chronic liver disease (40·8% out of 8163). There was significant interregional differences (hepatitis C in North, hepatitis B in East and South, alcohol in North-east, Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in West) in the predominant cause of chronic liver disease. Hepatitis B (46·8% of 438 cases) was the commonest cause of hepatocellular Cancer.11·7% had diabetes. Observations of our study will help guide a contextually relevant liver care policy for India and could serve as a framework for similar endeavor in other developing countries as well.

Molecular diagnosis of putative Stargardt disease probands by exome sequencing

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The commonest genetic form of juvenile or early adult onset macular degeneration is Stargardt Disease (STGD) caused by recessive mutations in the gene ABCA4. However, high phenotypic and allelic heterogeneity and a small but non-trivial amount of locus heterogeneity currently impede conclusive molecular diagnosis in a significant proportion of cases. Methods We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) of nine putative Stargardt Disease probands and searched for potentially disease-causing genetic variants in previously identified retinal or macular dystrophy genes. Follow-up dideoxy sequencing was performed for confirmation and to screen for mutations in an additional set of affected individuals lacking a definitive molecular diagnosis. Results Whole exome sequencing revealed seven likely disease-causing variants across four genes, providing a confident genetic diagnosis in six previously uncharacterized participants. We identified four previously missed mutations in ABCA4 across three individuals. Likely disease-causing mutations in RDS/PRPH2, ELOVL, and CRB1 were also identified. Conclusions Our findings highlight the enormous potential of whole exome sequencing in Stargardt Disease molecular diagnosis and research. WES adequately assayed all coding sequences and canonical splice sites of ABCA4 in this study. Additionally, WES enables the identification of disease-related alleles in other genes. This work highlights the importance of collecting parental genetic material for WES testing as the current knowledge of human genome variation limits the determination of causality between identified variants and disease. While larger sample sizes are required to establish the precision and accuracy of this type of testing, this study supports WES for inherited early onset macular degeneration disorders as an alternative to standard mutation screening techniques. PMID:22863181

Work-related respiratory disease in employees leaving an electronics factory.

PubMed

Perks, W H; Burge, P S; Rehahn, M; Green, M

1979-02-01

Examination of the records of employees leaving an electronics factory over three-and-a-half years showed that a significantly greater proportion left the shop floor (where soldering took place) because of ill health than left the stores and office areas. This difference was largely due to work-related respiratory disease in those whose job was soldering. Shop floor workers leaving for health reasons also had increased sickness certification due to respiratory illness compared to stores and office workers. These findings suggest that work-related respiratory illness is a significant cause of morbidity and loss of employment in solderers working at the factory and that this has been a longstanding problem with its onset before the first recorded cases of occupational asthma caused by solder flux containing colophony.

Chronic cough due to occupational factors

PubMed Central

Groneberg, David A; Nowak, Dennis; Wussow, Anke; Fischer, Axel

2006-01-01

Within the large variety of subtypes of chronic cough, either defined by their clinical or pathogenetic causes, occupational chronic cough may be regarded as one of the most preventable forms of the disease. Next to obstructive airway diseases such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which are sometimes concomitant with chronic cough, this chronic airway disease gains importance in the field of occupational medicine since classic fiber-related occupational airway diseases will decrease in the future. Apart from acute accidents and incidental exposures which may lead to an acute form of cough, there are numerous sources for the development of chronic cough within the workplace. Over the last years, a large number of studies has focused on occupational causes of respiratory diseases and it has emerged that chronic cough is one of the most prevalent work-related airway diseases. Best-known examples of occupations related to the development of cough are coal miners, hard-rock miners, tunnel workers, or concrete manufacturing workers. As chronic cough is often based on a variety of non-occupational factors such as tobacco smoke, a distinct separation into either occupational or personally -evoked can be difficult. However, revealing the occupational contribution to chronic cough and to the symptom cough in general, which is the commonest cause for the consultation of a physician, can significantly lead to a reduction of the socioeconomic burden of the disease. PMID:16722562

An Emerging Tick-Borne Disease of Humans Is Caused by a Subset of Strains with Conserved Genome Structure

PubMed Central

Barbet, Anthony F.; Al-Khedery, Basima; Stuen, Snorre; Granquist, Erik G.; Felsheim, Roderick F.; Munderloh, Ulrike G.

2013-01-01

The prevalence of tick-borne diseases is increasing worldwide. One such emerging disease is human anaplasmosis. The causative organism, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, is known to infect multiple animal species and cause human fatalities in the U.S., Europe and Asia. Although long known to infect ruminants, it is unclear why there are increasing numbers of human infections. We analyzed the genome sequences of strains infecting humans, animals and ticks from diverse geographic locations. Despite extensive variability amongst these strains, those infecting humans had conserved genome structure including the pfam01617 superfamily that encodes the major, neutralization-sensitive, surface antigen. These data provide potential targets to identify human-infective strains and have significance for understanding the selective pressures that lead to emergence of disease in new species. PMID:25437207

The etiology of Balkan endemic nephropathy: Still more questions than answers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tatu, C.A.; Orem, W.H.; Finkelman, R.B.; Feder, G.L.

1998-01-01

Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) has attracted increasing attention as a possible environmental disease, and a significant amount of research from complementary scientific fields has been dedicated to its etiology. There are two actual competing theories attempting to explain the cause of this kidney disease: 1) the mycotoxin hypothesis, which considers that BEN is produced by ochratoxin A ingested intermittently in small amounts by the individuals in the endemic regions, and 2) the Pliocene lignite hypothesis, which proposes that the disease is caused by long-term exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and other toxic organic compounds leaching into the well drinking water from low rank coals underlying or proximal to the endemic settlements. We outline the current developments and future prospects in the study of BEN and differentiate possible factors and cofactors in disease etiology.

Oak Tree Canker Disease Supports Arthropod Diversity in a Natural Ecosystem

PubMed Central

Lee, Yong-Bok; An, Su Jung; Park, Chung Gyoo; Kim, Jinwoo; Han, Sangjo; Kwak, Youn-Sig

2014-01-01

Microorganisms have many roles in nature. They may act as decomposers that obtain nutrients from dead materials, while some are pathogens that cause diseases in animals, insects, and plants. Some are symbionts that enhance plant growth, such as arbuscular mycorrhizae and nitrogen fixation bacteria. However, roles of plant pathogens and diseases in natural ecosystems are still poorly understood. Thus, the current study addressed this deficiency by investigating possible roles of plant diseases in natural ecosystems, particularly, their positive effects on arthropod diversity. In this study, the model system was the oak tree (Quercus spp.) and the canker disease caused by Annulohypoxylon truncatum, and its effects on arthropod diversity. The oak tree site contained 44 oak trees; 31 had canker disease symptoms while 13 were disease-free. A total of 370 individual arthropods were detected at the site during the survey period. The arthropods belonged to 25 species, 17 families, and seven orders. Interestingly, the cankered trees had significantly higher biodiversity and richness compared with the canker-free trees. This study clearly demonstrated that arthropod diversity was supported by the oak tree canker disease. PMID:25288984

2008 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures.

PubMed

2008-03-01

Alzheimer's disease is the seventh leading cause of all deaths in the United States and the fifth leading cause of death in Americans older than the age of 65 years. More than 5 million Americans are estimated to have Alzheimer's disease. Every 71 seconds someone in America develops Alzheimer's disease; by 2050 it is expected to occur every 33 seconds. During the coming decades, baby boomers are projected to add 10 million people to these numbers. By 2050, the incidence of Alzheimer's disease is expected to approach nearly a million people per year, with a total estimated prevalence of 11 to 16 million persons. Significant cost implications related to Alzheimer's disease and other dementias include an estimated $148 billion annually in direct (Medicare/Medicaid) and indirect (eg, caregiver lost wages and out-of-pocket expenses, decreased business productivity) costs. Not included in these figures are the estimated 10 million caregivers who annually provide $89 billion in unpaid services to individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This report provides information to increase understanding of the public health impact of Alzheimer's disease, including incidence and prevalence, mortality, lifetime risks, costs, and impact on family caregivers.

Management of pilonidal disease.

PubMed

Kallis, Michelle P; Maloney, Caroline; Lipskar, Aaron M

2018-06-01

Pilonidal disease, and the treatment associated with it, can cause significant morbidity and substantial burden to patients' quality of life. Despite the plethora of surgical techniques that have been developed to treat pilonidal disease, discrepancies in technique, recurrence rates, complications, time to return to work/school and patients' aesthetic satisfaction between treatment options have led to controversy over the best approach to this common acquired disease of young adults. The management of pilonidal disease must strike a balance between recurrence and surgical morbidity. The commonly performed wide excision without closure has prolonged recovery, while flap closures speed recovery time and improve aesthetics at the expense of increased wound complications. Less invasive surgical techniques have recently evolved and are straightforward, with minimal morbidity and satisfactory results. As with any surgical intervention, the ideal treatment for pilonidal disease would be simple and cost-effective, cause minimal pain, have a limited hospital stay, low recurrence rate and require minimal time off from school or work. Less invasive procedures for pilonidal disease may be favourable as an initial approach for these patients reserving complex surgical treatment for refractory disease.

Mortality in a Combined Cohort of Uranium Enrichment Workers

PubMed Central

Yiin, James H.; Anderson, Jeri L.; Daniels, Robert D.; Bertke, Stephen J.; Fleming, Donald A.; Tollerud, David J.; Tseng, Chih-Yu; Chen, Pi-Hsueh; Waters, Kathleen M.

2017-01-01

Objective To examine the patterns of cause-specific mortality and relationship between internal exposure to uranium and specific causes in a pooled cohort of 29,303 workers employed at three former uranium enrichment facilities in the United States with follow-up through 2011. Methods Cause-specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for the full cohort were calculated with the U.S. population as referent. Internal comparison of the dose-response relation between selected outcomes and estimated organ doses was evaluated using regression models. Results External comparison with the U.S. population showed significantly lower SMRs in most diseases in the pooled cohort. Internal comparison showed positive associations of absorbed organ doses with multiple myeloma, and to a lesser degree with kidney cancer. Conclusion In general, these gaseous diffusion plant workers had significantly lower SMRs than the U.S. population. The internal comparison however, showed associations between internal organ doses and diseases associated with uranium exposure in previous studies. PMID:27753121

Estimating the Delay between Host Infection and Disease (Incubation Period) and Assessing Its Significance to the Epidemiology of Plant Diseases

PubMed Central

Leclerc, Melen; Doré, Thierry; Gilligan, Christopher A.; Lucas, Philippe; Filipe, João A. N.

2014-01-01

Knowledge of the incubation period of infectious diseases (time between host infection and expression of disease symptoms) is crucial to our epidemiological understanding and the design of appropriate prevention and control policies. Plant diseases cause substantial damage to agricultural and arboricultural systems, but there is still very little information about how the incubation period varies within host populations. In this paper, we focus on the incubation period of soilborne plant pathogens, which are difficult to detect as they spread and infect the hosts underground and above-ground symptoms occur considerably later. We conducted experiments on Rhizoctonia solani in sugar beet, as an example patho-system, and used modelling approaches to estimate the incubation period distribution and demonstrate the impact of differing estimations on our epidemiological understanding of plant diseases. We present measurements of the incubation period obtained in field conditions, fit alternative probability models to the data, and show that the incubation period distribution changes with host age. By simulating spatially-explicit epidemiological models with different incubation-period distributions, we study the conditions for a significant time lag between epidemics of cryptic infection and the associated epidemics of symptomatic disease. We examine the sensitivity of this lag to differing distributional assumptions about the incubation period (i.e. exponential versus Gamma). We demonstrate that accurate information about the incubation period distribution of a pathosystem can be critical in assessing the true scale of pathogen invasion behind early disease symptoms in the field; likewise, it can be central to model-based prediction of epidemic risk and evaluation of disease management strategies. Our results highlight that reliance on observation of disease symptoms can cause significant delay in detection of soil-borne pathogen epidemics and mislead practitioners and epidemiologists about the timing, extent, and viability of disease control measures for limiting economic loss. PMID:24466153

Estimating the delay between host infection and disease (incubation period) and assessing its significance to the epidemiology of plant diseases.

PubMed

Leclerc, Melen; Doré, Thierry; Gilligan, Christopher A; Lucas, Philippe; Filipe, João A N

2014-01-01

Knowledge of the incubation period of infectious diseases (time between host infection and expression of disease symptoms) is crucial to our epidemiological understanding and the design of appropriate prevention and control policies. Plant diseases cause substantial damage to agricultural and arboricultural systems, but there is still very little information about how the incubation period varies within host populations. In this paper, we focus on the incubation period of soilborne plant pathogens, which are difficult to detect as they spread and infect the hosts underground and above-ground symptoms occur considerably later. We conducted experiments on Rhizoctonia solani in sugar beet, as an example patho-system, and used modelling approaches to estimate the incubation period distribution and demonstrate the impact of differing estimations on our epidemiological understanding of plant diseases. We present measurements of the incubation period obtained in field conditions, fit alternative probability models to the data, and show that the incubation period distribution changes with host age. By simulating spatially-explicit epidemiological models with different incubation-period distributions, we study the conditions for a significant time lag between epidemics of cryptic infection and the associated epidemics of symptomatic disease. We examine the sensitivity of this lag to differing distributional assumptions about the incubation period (i.e. exponential versus Gamma). We demonstrate that accurate information about the incubation period distribution of a pathosystem can be critical in assessing the true scale of pathogen invasion behind early disease symptoms in the field; likewise, it can be central to model-based prediction of epidemic risk and evaluation of disease management strategies. Our results highlight that reliance on observation of disease symptoms can cause significant delay in detection of soil-borne pathogen epidemics and mislead practitioners and epidemiologists about the timing, extent, and viability of disease control measures for limiting economic loss.

Invasive pneumococcal disease in Jamaican children.

PubMed

McGregor, D; Barton, M; Thomas, S; Christie, C D

2004-03-01

A 5-year retrospective review of cases of invasive pneumococcal disease admitted to the Bustamante Hospital for Children, Jamaica was conducted. A total of 111 cases were identified. The estimated incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease in Kingston and St Andrew was 21/100,000 children under the age of 10 years. The majority of cases (76%) were in the under-2-years age group. All four deaths were of infants. Pre-existing medical conditions included sickle cell disease, HIV and undernutrition. The rate of resistance to penicillin was 13.8%. Meningitis accounted for three of the four deaths identified and poor outcome was identified in 28% of cases of meningitis. We conclude that invasive pneumococcal disease causes significant morbidity and mortality in young Jamaican children. Strategies directed at preventing HIV infection and malnutrition and improving the care of children with sickle cell disease and HIV infection would significantly reduce disease incidence.

Infectious and parasitic diseases of captive carnivores, with special emphasis on the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes).

PubMed

Williams, E S; Thorne, E T

1996-03-01

Captive carnivores are susceptible to a wide array of infectious and parasitic diseases, which reflects the diversity of the seven families of Carnivora. Unfortunately, relatively few in-depth studies have been conducted on diseases of non-domestic carnivores, and much remains to be learned, especially regarding diseases of small carnivores (e.g. mustelids, viverrids and procyonids). The more important infectious diseases of carnivores include rabies, canine distemper, and diseases caused by parvoviruses, coronaviruses and herpesviruses. Few parasitic or bacterial pathogens are significant in captive populations, and appropriate husbandry, therapy, vaccines and quarantine minimize the risk of disease. Extrapolations from one species to another regarding disease susceptibility may be incorrect. The black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) serves as an example of a carnivore significantly affected by infectious diseases, some of which were expected while others could not have been predicted from generalized knowledge of diseases of mustelids. This highlights the need to understand the natural history of each species maintained in captivity.

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Comorbid with Psoriasis: Beyond the Skin

PubMed Central

Furue, Masutaka; Tsuji, Gaku; Chiba, Takahito; Kadono, Takafumi

2017-01-01

A close association of systemic inflammation with cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome is recently a popular topic in medicine. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a prevalence of approximately 0.1-0.5% in Asians. It is characterized by widespread scaly erythematous macules that cause significant physical and psychological burdens for the affected individuals. The accelerated inflammation driven by the TNF-α/IL-23/IL-17A axis is now known to be the major mechanism in the development of psoriasis. Psoriasis is not a mere skin disease; it is significantly associated with cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome, which suggests that the chronic skin inflammation extends the systemic inflammation beyond the skin. In this article, we review the epidemiological and pathological aspects of psoriasis and its comorbidities. PMID:28674347

Tillage, Fungicide, and Cultivar Effects on Frogeye Leaf Spot Severity and Yield in Soybean

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Frogeye leaf spot (FLS) of soybean, caused by Cercospora sojina K. Hara, has been a problem in the southern USA for many years but has recently become an increasing problem causing significant yield losses in the northern USA. This increase in disease severity in the north USA has been attributed t...

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis PPE Protein MAP1152 and Conserved Protein MAP1156 are Antigenic in Experimentally and Naturally Infected Cattle

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) causes Johne’s Disease (JD) in ruminants resulting in significant production losses. An insertion mutation upstream from the MAP1152-MAP1156 region causes a change in colony morphotype and results in an attenuated phenotype in bovine monocyte derive...

Evaluation of seed coating formulations of Trichoderma harzianum on cucumber seeds against pre- and post-emergence damping-off caused by Pythium ultimum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Seed coating formulations of Trichoderma harzianum were evaluated on cucumber seeds to control pre- and post-emergence damping-off caused by Pythium ultimum in greenhouse studies. Results showed that coating formulation H reduced the disease incidence significantly, and had the potential for commer...

Genome-wide association mapping reveals novel QTL for seedling leaf rust resistance in a worldwide collection of winter wheat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Leaf rust is a major disease that causes significant wheat yield losses worldwide. Growing resistant cultivars is an effective approach to reduce disease losses. The short-lived nature of leaf rust resistance (Lr) genes necessitates a continuous search for novel sources of resistance. We performe...

Validation of linked QTL for bacterial cold water disease resistance and spleen size on rainbow trout chromosome Omy19

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) is caused by infection with Flavobacterium psychrophilum, and results in significant economic losses in salmonid aquaculture. Previously, we identified a major QTL for BCWD resistance and a QTL for spleen size (SPLW = spleen weight and SPLI = spleen index) in naï...

An unusual case of fatal pulmonary hemorrhage in pregnancy

PubMed Central

Dissanayake, N. L. A; Madegedara, Dushantha

2011-01-01

Rickettsial diseases are common in Srilanka. The spotted fever group of rickettsiae presents in many ways, including very severe disease causing significant morbidity and mortality. A regional variation of the Rickettsia conorii subspecies and differences in clinical presentations are reported. This case describes disseminated Rickettsia conorii infection in a pregnant woman presenting with endocarditis. PMID:21886958

Microbead based assays for detection and characterization of E. coli in pure cultures

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified that the top 6 non-O157 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) are emerging pathogens presenting significant risks of disease. These, as well as the infamous E. coli O157, cause an estimated 265,000 infections each year in t...

West Nile Virus: Biology, Transmission, and Human Infection

PubMed Central

Colpitts, Tonya M.; Conway, Michael J.; Montgomery, Ruth R.

2012-01-01

Summary: West Nile Virus was introduced into the Western Hemisphere during the late summer of 1999 and has been causing significant and sometimes severe human diseases since that time. This article briefly touches upon the biology of the virus and provides a comprehensive review regarding recent discoveries about virus transmission, virus acquisition, and human infection and disease. PMID:23034323

Prevalence and development of disease on coast redwood seedlings caused by Phytophthora ramorum

Treesearch

S. Lucas; J. Parke; Y. Valachovic

2009-01-01

Coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is a host for Phytophthora ramorum but it is unclear if the pathogen represents a significant disease risk to this tree species. In an on-going field experiment, we are examining the prevalence of infection and the development of symptoms on coast redwood seedlings in naturally infested...

Evidence of major genes affecting resistance to bacterial cold water disease in rainbow trout using Bayesian methods of segregation analysis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic loss in salmonid aquaculture. We previously detected genetic variation for BCWD resistance in our rainbow trout population, and a family-based selection program to improve resistance was initiated at the National Center for Cool and Col...

Similar genetic architecture with shared and unique quantitative trait loci for bacterial cold water disease resistance in two rainbow trout breeding populations

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant mortality and economic losses in salmonid aquaculture. In previous studies, we identified moderate-large effect QTL for BCWD resistance in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). However, the recent availability of a 57K SNP array and a genome phys...

Report of the Task Force on Pertussis and Pertussis Immunization--1988.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

American Academy of Pediatrics, Elk Grove Village, IL.

Pertussis is a severe epidemic and endemic disease with significant morbidity and mortality. The use of whole-cell pertussis vaccines in the United States has been effective in controlling the disease but not in decreasing the circulation of the organism. Whole-cell vaccines commonly cause reactions in children, and in addition, they are often…

Evidence of major genes affecting bacterial cold water disease resistance in rainbow trout using Bayesian methods of complex segregation analysis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic loss in salmonid aquaculture. We previously detected genetic variation for BCWD resistance in our rainbow trout population, and a family-based selection program to improve resistance was initiated at the NCCCWA in 2005. The main objec...

Genital Chlamydia trachomatis: Understanding the Roles of Innate and Adaptive Immunity in Vaccine Research

PubMed Central

Vasilevsky, Sam; Greub, Gilbert; Nardelli-Haefliger, Denise

2014-01-01

SUMMARY Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted disease worldwide, and despite significant advances in chlamydial research, a prophylactic vaccine has yet to be developed. This Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium, which often causes asymptomatic infection, may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancies, scarring of the fallopian tubes, miscarriage, and infertility when left untreated. In the genital tract, Chlamydia trachomatis infects primarily epithelial cells and requires Th1 immunity for optimal clearance. This review first focuses on the immune cells important in a chlamydial infection. Second, we summarize the research and challenges associated with developing a chlamydial vaccine that elicits a protective Th1-mediated immune response without inducing adverse immunopathologies. PMID:24696438

A universal vaccine for serogroup B meningococcus

PubMed Central

Giuliani, Marzia M.; Adu-Bobie, Jeannette; Comanducci, Maurizio; Aricò, Beatrice; Savino, Silvana; Santini, Laura; Brunelli, Brunella; Bambini, Stefania; Biolchi, Alessia; Capecchi, Barbara; Cartocci, Elena; Ciucchi, Laura; Di Marcello, Federica; Ferlicca, Francesca; Galli, Barbara; Luzzi, Enrico; Masignani, Vega; Serruto, Davide; Veggi, Daniele; Contorni, Mario; Morandi, Maurizio; Bartalesi, Alessandro; Cinotti, Vanda; Mannucci, Donatella; Titta, Francesca; Ovidi, Elisa; Welsch, Jo Anne; Granoff, Dan; Rappuoli, Rino; Pizza, Mariagrazia

2006-01-01

Meningitis and sepsis caused by serogroup B meningococcus are two severe diseases that still cause significant mortality. To date there is no universal vaccine that prevents these diseases. In this work, five antigens discovered by reverse vaccinology were expressed in a form suitable for large-scale manufacturing and formulated with adjuvants suitable for human use. The vaccine adjuvanted by aluminum hydroxide induced bactericidal antibodies in mice against 78% of a panel of 85 meningococcal strains representative of the global population diversity. The strain coverage could be increased to 90% and above by the addition of CpG oligonucleotides or by using MF59 as adjuvant. The vaccine has the potential to conquer one of the most devastating diseases of childhood. PMID:16825336

The toxicity of dietary trans fats.

PubMed

Ganguly, Riya; Pierce, Grant N

2015-04-01

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death today. Trans fatty acids have been identified as an important cause of cardiovascular disease and the resulting clinical end points such as strokes and heart attacks. Although legislative efforts have limited the trans fats in our diet, significant amounts remain. Understanding the impact trans fats have on our body, therefore, remains a critical focus of study. In addition, paradoxically, recent research has now identified an important cardioprotective role for a sub-category of trans fats, the ruminant trans fats. Learning more about the mechanisms responsible for not only the toxic actions of trans fats but also their potential as beneficial compounds within our diet is essential to modulate cardiovascular disease today. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sonography of cat scratch disease.

PubMed

Melville, David M; Jacobson, Jon A; Downie, Brian; Biermann, J Sybil; Kim, Sung Moon; Yablon, Corrie M

2015-03-01

To characterize the sonographic features of cat scratch disease and to identify features that allow differentiation from other causes of medial epitrochlear masses. After Institutional Review Board approval was obtained, patients who underwent sonography for a medial epitrochlear mass or lymph node were identified via the radiology information system. Patients were divided into 2 groups: cat scratch disease and non-cat scratch disease, based on pathologic results and clinical information. Sonograms were retrospectively reviewed and characterized with respect to dimension, shape (round, oval, or lobular), symmetry, location (subcutaneous or intramuscular), multiplicity, echogenicity (anechoic, hypoechoic, isoechoic, hyperechoic, or mixed), hyperechoic hilum (present or absent), adjacent anechoic or hypoechoic area, hyperemia (present or absent), pattern of hyperemia if present (central, peripheral, or mixed), increased posterior through-transmission (present or absent), and shadowing (present or absent). Sonographic findings were compared between the patients with and without cat scratch disease. The final patient group consisted of 5 cases of cat scratch disease and 16 cases of other causes of medial epitrochlear masses. The 2 sonographic findings that were significantly different between the cat scratch disease and non-cat scratch disease cases included mass asymmetry (P = .0062) and the presence of a hyperechoic hilum (P = .0075). The other sonographic findings showed no significant differences between the groups. The sonographic finding of an epitrochlear mass due to cat scratch disease most commonly is that of a hypoechoic lobular or oval mass with central hyperemia and a possible adjacent fluid collection; however, the presence of asymmetry and a hyperechoic hilum differentiate cat scratch disease from other etiologies. © 2015 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Estrogen via estrogen receptor beta partially inhibits mandibular condylar cartilage growth.

PubMed

Chen, J; Kamiya, Y; Polur, I; Xu, M; Choi, T; Kalajzic, Z; Drissi, H; Wadhwa, S

2014-11-01

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) diseases predominantly afflict women, suggesting a role for female hormones in the disease process. However, little is known about the role of estrogen receptor (ER) signaling in regulating mandibular condylar cartilage growth. Therefore, the goal of this study was to examine the effects of altered estrogen levels on the mandibular condylar cartilage in wild type (WT) and ER beta Knockout (KO) mice. 21-day-old female WT (n = 37) and ER beta KO mice (n = 36) were either sham operated or ovariectomized, and treated with either placebo or estradiol. The mandibular condylar cartilage was evaluated by histomorphometry, proliferation was analyzed by double ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine/bromodeoxyuridine (EdU/BrdU) labeling, and assays on gene and protein expression of chondrocyte maturation markers were performed. In WT mice, ovariectomy caused a significant increase in mandibular condylar cartilage cell numbers, a significant increase in Sox9 expression and a significant increase in proliferation compared with sham operated WT mice. In contrast, ovariectomy did not cause any of these effects in the ER beta KO mice. Estrogen replacement treatment in ovariectomized WT mice caused a significant decrease in ER alpha expression and a significant increase in Sost expression compared with ovariectomized mice treated with placebo. Estrogen replacement treatment in ovariectomized ER beta KO mice caused a significant increase in Col2 expression, no change in ER alpha expression, and a significant increase in Sost expression. Estrogen via ER beta inhibits proliferation and ER alpha expression while estrogen independent of ER beta induces Col2 and Sost expression. Copyright © 2014 China University of Geosciences (Beijing) and Peking University. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chronic subhepatotoxic exposure to arsenic enhances hepatic injury caused by high fat diet in mice

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tan, Min; Schmidt, Robin H.; Beier, Juliane I.

Arsenic is a ubiquitous contaminant in drinking water. Whereas arsenic can be directly hepatotoxic, the concentrations/doses required are generally higher than present in the US water supply. However, physiological/biochemical changes that are alone pathologically inert can enhance the hepatotoxic response to a subsequent stimulus. Such a '2-hit' paradigm is best exemplified in chronic fatty liver diseases. Here, the hypothesis that low arsenic exposure sensitizes liver to hepatotoxicity in a mouse model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease was tested. Accordingly, male C57Bl/6J mice were exposed to low fat diet (LFD; 13% calories as fat) or high fat diet (HFD; 42% caloriesmore » as fat) and tap water or arsenic (4.9 ppm as sodium arsenite) for ten weeks. Biochemical and histologic indices of liver damage were determined. High fat diet ({+-} arsenic) significantly increased body weight gain in mice compared with low-fat controls. HFD significantly increased liver to body weight ratios; this variable was unaffected by arsenic exposure. HFD caused steatohepatitis, as indicated by histological assessment and by increases in plasma ALT and AST. Although arsenic exposure had no effect on indices of liver damage in LFD-fed animals, it significantly increased the liver damage caused by HFD. This effect of arsenic correlated with enhanced inflammation and fibrin extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. These data indicate that subhepatotoxic arsenic exposure enhances the toxicity of HFD. These results also suggest that arsenic exposure might be a risk factor for the development of fatty liver disease in human populations. -- Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Characterizes a mouse model of arsenic enhanced NAFLD. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Arsenic synergistically enhances experimental fatty liver disease at concentrations that cause no overt hepatotoxicity alone. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer This effect is associated with increased inflammation.« less

Liver transplant for cholestatic liver diseases.

PubMed

Carrion, Andres F; Bhamidimarri, Kalyan Ram

2013-05-01

Cholestatic liver diseases include a group of diverse disorders with different epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical course, and prognosis. Despite significant advances in the clinical care of patients with cholestatic liver diseases, liver transplant (LT) remains the only definitive therapy for end-stage liver disease, regardless of the underlying cause. As per the United Network for Organ Sharing database, the rate of cadaveric LT for cholestatic liver disease was 18% in 1991, 10% in 2000, and 7.8% in 2008. This review summarizes the available evidence on various common and rare cholestatic liver diseases, disease-specific issues, and pertinent aspects of LT. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sarcopenic Obesity and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality: A Population-Based Cohort Study of Older Men

PubMed Central

Atkins, Janice L; Whincup, Peter H; Morris, Richard W; Lennon, Lucy T; Papacosta, Olia; Wannamethee, S Goya

2014-01-01

Objectives To examine associations between sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality in older men. Design Prospective cohort study. Setting British Regional Heart Study. Participants Men aged 60–79 years (n = 4,252). Measurements Baseline waist circumference (WC) and midarm muscle circumference (MAMC) measurements were used to classify participants into four groups: sarcopenic, obese, sarcopenic obese, or optimal WC and MAMC. The cohort was followed for a mean of 11.3 years for CVD and all-cause mortality. Cox regression analyses assessed associations between sarcopenic obesity groups and all-cause mortality, CVD mortality, CVD events, and coronary heart disease (CHD) events. Results There were 1,314 deaths, 518 CVD deaths, 852 CVD events, and 458 CHD events during follow-up. All-cause mortality risk was significantly greater in sarcopenic (HR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.22–1.63) and obese (HR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.03–1.42) men than in the optimal reference group, with the highest risk in sarcopenic obese (HR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.35–2.18), after adjustment for lifestyle characteristics. Risk of CVD mortality was significantly greater in sarcopenic and obese but not sarcopenic obese men. No association was seen between sarcopenic obesity groups and CHD or CVD events. Conclusion Sarcopenia and central adiposity were associated with greater cardiovascular mortality and all-cause mortality. Sarcopenic obese men had the highest risk of all-cause mortality but not CVD mortality. Efforts to promote healthy aging should focus on preventing obesity and maintaining muscle mass. PMID:24428349

Bacterial diversity in Buruli ulcer skin lesions: Challenges in the clinical microbiome analysis of a skin disease.

PubMed

Van Leuvenhaege, Chloé; Vandelannoote, Koen; Affolabi, Dissou; Portaels, Françoise; Sopoh, Ghislain; de Jong, Bouke C; Eddyani, Miriam; Meehan, Conor J

2017-01-01

Buruli ulcer (BU) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans and considered the third most prevalent mycobacterial disease in humans. Secondary bacterial infections in open BU lesions are the main cause of pain, delayed healing and systemic illness, resulting in prolonged hospital stay. Thus, understanding the diversity of bacteria, termed the microbiome, in these open lesions is important for proper treatment. However, adequately studying the human microbiome in a clinical setting can prove difficult when investigating a neglected tropical skin disease due to its rarity and the setting. Using 16S rRNA sequencing, we determined the microbial composition of 5 BU lesions, 3 non-BU lesions and 3 healthy skin samples. Although no significant differences in diversity were found between BU and non-BU lesions, the former were characterized by an increase of Bacteroidetes compared to the non-BU wounds and the BU lesions also contained significantly more obligate anaerobes. With this molecular-based study, we were also able to detect bacteria that were missed by culture-based methods in previous BU studies. Our study suggests that BU may lead to changes in the skin bacterial community within the lesions. However, in order to determine if such changes hold true across all BU cases and are either a cause or consequence of a specific wound environment, further microbiome studies are necessary. Such skin microbiome analysis requires large sample sizes and lesions from the same body site in many patients, both of which can be difficult for a rare disease. Our study proposes a pipeline for such studies and highlights several drawbacks that must be considered if microbiome analysis is to be utilized for neglected tropical diseases.

Mortality atlas of the main causes of death in Switzerland, 2008-2012.

PubMed

Chammartin, Frédérique; Probst-Hensch, Nicole; Utzinger, Jürg; Vounatsou, Penelope

2016-01-01

Analysis of the spatial distribution of mortality data is important for identification of high-risk areas, which in turn might guide prevention, and modify behaviour and health resources allocation. This study aimed to update the Swiss mortality atlas by analysing recent data using Bayesian statistical methods. We present average pattern for the major causes of death in Switzerland. We analysed Swiss mortality data from death certificates for the period 2008-2012. Bayesian conditional autoregressive models were employed to smooth the standardised mortality rates and assess average patterns. Additionally, we developed models for age- and gender-specific sub-groups that account for urbanisation and linguistic areas in order to assess their effects on the different sub-groups. We describe the spatial pattern of the major causes of death that occurred in Switzerland between 2008 and 2012, namely 4 cardiovascular diseases, 10 different kinds of cancer, 2 external causes of death, as well as chronic respiratory diseases, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, influenza and pneumonia, and liver diseases. In-depth analysis of age- and gender-specific mortality rates revealed significant disparities between urbanisation and linguistic areas. We provide a contemporary overview of the spatial distribution of the main causes of death in Switzerland. Our estimates and maps can help future research to deepen our understanding of the spatial variation of major causes of death in Switzerland, which in turn is crucial for targeting preventive measures, changing behaviours and a more cost-effective allocation of health resources.

Cardiovascular disease in spinal cord injury: an overview of prevalence, risk, evaluation, and management.

PubMed

Myers, Jonathan; Lee, Matthew; Kiratli, Jenny

2007-02-01

Cardiovascular disease is a growing concern for the spinal cord-injured (SCI) population. For long-term SCI, morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular causes now exceeds that caused by renal and pulmonary conditions, the primary causes of mortality in previous decades. Although risk estimates commonly used for ambulatory individuals have not been established from follow-up studies in SCI, nearly all risk factors tend to be more prevalent in SCI subjects compared with ambulatory subjects. These risks include a greater prevalence of obesity, lipid disorders, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes. Daily energy expenditure is significantly lower in SCI individuals, not only because of a lack of motor function, but also because of a lack of accessibility and fewer opportunities to engage in physical activity. Autonomic dysfunction caused by SCI is also associated with several conditions that contribute to heightened cardiovascular risk, including abnormalities in blood pressure, heart rate variability, arrhythmias, and a blunted cardiovascular response to exercise that can limit the capacity to perform physical activity. Thus, screening, recognition, and treatment of cardiovascular disease should be an essential component of managing individuals with SCI, and judicious treatment of risk factors can play an important role in minimizing the incidence of cardiovascular disease in these individuals. This article reviews the cardiovascular consequences of chronic SCI, including the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and risk factors unique to these individuals, and provides a synopsis of management of cardiovascular disease in this population.

Traffic air pollution and mortality from cardiovascular disease and all causes: a Danish cohort study.

PubMed

Raaschou-Nielsen, Ole; Andersen, Zorana Jovanovic; Jensen, Steen Solvang; Ketzel, Matthias; Sørensen, Mette; Hansen, Johnni; Loft, Steffen; Tjønneland, Anne; Overvad, Kim

2012-09-05

Traffic air pollution has been linked to cardiovascular mortality, which might be due to co-exposure to road traffic noise. Further, personal and lifestyle characteristics might modify any association. We followed up 52 061 participants in a Danish cohort for mortality in the nationwide Register of Causes of Death, from enrollment in 1993-1997 through 2009, and traced their residential addresses from 1971 onwards in the Central Population Registry. We used dispersion-modelled concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) since 1971 as indicator of traffic air pollution and used Cox regression models to estimate mortality rate ratios (MRRs) with adjustment for potential confounders. Mean levels of NO₂ at the residence since 1971 were significantly associated with mortality from cardiovascular disease (MRR, 1.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.51, per doubling of NO₂ concentration) and all causes (MRR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.04-1.23, per doubling of NO₂ concentration) after adjustment for potential confounders. For participants who ate < 200 g of fruit and vegetables per day, the MRR was 1.45 (95% CI, 1.13-1.87) for mortality from cardiovascular disease and 1.25 (95% CI, 1.11-1.42) for mortality from all causes. Traffic air pollution is associated with mortality from cardiovascular diseases and all causes, after adjustment for traffic noise. The association was strongest for people with a low fruit and vegetable intake.

Prognostic factors for survival in patients with Ewing's sarcoma using the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results (SEER) program database.

PubMed

Duchman, Kyle R; Gao, Yubo; Miller, Benjamin J

2015-04-01

The current study aims to determine cause-specific survival in patients with Ewing's sarcoma while reporting clinical risk factors for survival. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program database was used to identify patients with osseous Ewing's sarcoma from 1991 to 2010. Patient, tumor, and socioeconomic variables were analyzed to determine prognostic factors for survival. There were 1163 patients with Ewing's sarcoma identified in the SEER Program database. The 10-year cause-specific survival for patients with non-metastatic disease at diagnosis was 66.8% and 28.1% for patients with metastatic disease. Black patients demonstrated reduced survival at 10 years with an increased frequency of metastatic disease at diagnosis as compared to patients of other race, while Hispanic patients more frequently presented with tumor size>10cm. Univariate analysis revealed that metastatic disease at presentation, tumor size>10cm, axial tumor location, patient age≥20 years, black race, and male sex were associated with decreased cause-specific survival at 10 years. Metastatic disease at presentation, axial tumor location, tumor size>10cm, and age≥20 years remained significant in the multivariate analysis. Patients with Ewing's sarcoma have decreased cause-specific survival at 10 years when metastatic at presentation, axial tumor location, tumor size>10cm, and patient age≥20 years. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Translating scientific discovery: the need for preclinical models of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

PubMed Central

Cole, Banumathi K.; Issa, Danny; Feaver, Ryan E.

2018-01-01

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the Western world, affecting about 1/3 of the US general population and remaining as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The hallmark of the disease is the excessive accumulation of fat within the liver cells (hepatocytes), which eventually paves the way to cellular stress, injury and apoptosis. NAFLD is strongly associated with components of the metabolic syndrome and is fast emerging as a leading cause of liver transplant in the USA. Based on clinico-pathologic classification, NAFLD may present as isolated lipid collection (steatosis) within the hepatocytes (referred to as non-alcoholic fatty liver; NAFL); or as the more aggressive phenotype (known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; NASH). There are currently no regulatory agency-approved medication for NAFLD, despite the enormous work and resources that have gone into the study of this condition. Therefore, there remains a huge unmet need in developing and utilizing pre-clinical models that will recapitulate the disease condition in humans. In line with progress being made in developing appropriate disease models, this review highlights the cutting-edge preclinical in vitro and animal models that try to recapitulate the human disease pathophysiology and/or clinical manifestations. PMID:29299759

Salivary Glands

MedlinePlus

... in autoimmune diseases such as HIV and Sjögren's syndrome where the body's immune system attacks the salivary glands causing significant inflammation. Dry mouth or dry eyes are common. This may occur with other systemic ...

Harnessing the Toxocara Genome to Underpin Toxocariasis Research and New Interventions.

PubMed

Gasser, Robin B; Korhonen, Pasi K; Zhu, Xing-Quan; Young, Neil D

2016-01-01

Parasitic worms, such as flatworms (platyhelminths) and roundworms (nematodes), cause substantial morbidity and mortality in animals and people globally. The ascaridoid nematode Toxocara canis is a zoonotic parasite of socioeconomic significance worldwide. In humans, this worm causes toxocariasis (disease) mainly in underprivileged communities in both the developed and developing worlds. While reasonably well studied from clinical and epidemiological perspectives, little is understood about the molecular biology of T. canis, its relationship with its hosts and the disease that it causes. However, a recent report of the draft genome and transcriptomes of T. canis should underpin many fundamental and applied research areas in the future. The present article gives a background on Toxocara and toxocariasis, a brief account of diagnostic approaches for specific identification and genetic analysis, and gives a perspective on the impact that the genome of T. canis and advanced molecular technologies could have on our understanding of the parasite and the diseases that it causes as well as the design of new and improved approaches for the diagnosis, treatment and control of toxocariasis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DIAGNOSIS OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Expanding the cause of hypopituitarism.

PubMed

Pekic, Sandra; Popovic, Vera

2017-06-01

Hypopituitarism is defined as one or more pituitary hormone deficits due to a lesion in the hypothalamic-pituitary region. By far, the most common cause of hypopituitarism associated with a sellar mass is a pituitary adenoma. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosing hypopituitarism in several other conditions such as other massess in the sellar and parasellar region, brain damage caused by radiation and by traumatic brain injury, vascular lesions, infiltrative/immunological/inflammatory diseases (lymphocytic hypophysitis, sarcoidosis and hemochromatosis), infectious diseases and genetic disorders. Hypopituitarism may be permanent and progressive with sequential pattern of hormone deficiencies (radiation-induced hypopituitarism) or transient after traumatic brain injury with possible recovery occurring years from the initial event. In recent years, there is increased reporting of less common and less reported causes of hypopituitarism with its delayed diagnosis. The aim of this review is to summarize the published data and to allow earlier identification of populations at risk of hypopituitarism as optimal hormonal replacement may significantly improve their quality of life and life expectancy. © 2017 European Society of Endocrinology.

The expanding spectrum of human infections caused by Kocuria species: a case report and literature review

PubMed Central

Purty, Shashikala; Saranathan, Rajagopalan; Prashanth, K; Narayanan, K; Asir, Johny; Sheela Devi, Chandrakesan; Kumar Amarnath, Satish

2013-01-01

Although not previously known to cause human infections, Kocuria species have now emerged as human pathogens, mostly in compromised hosts with severe underlying disease. Recently, there has been an increasing incidence of different types of Kocuria infections reported, most likely due to the adoption of better identification methods. Here, we report a case of peritonitis caused by Kocuria rosea in a diabetic nephropathy patient who was on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Sepsis and peritonitis caused by K. rosea in our case yielded two identical Kocuria isolates from the peritoneal dialysate fluid within a period of three days. The infection was subsequently resolved by antibiotic treatment and catheter removal. In addition to reporting this case, we herein review the literature concerning the emergence of Kocuria as a significant human pathogen. The majority of cases were device-related, acquired in the hospital or endogenous, and different Kocuria species appear to share a common etiology of peritonitis. The overall disease burden associated with Kocuria appears to be high, and the treatment guidelines for diseases associated with Kocuria have not yet been clearly defined. PMID:26038440

In vitro synergistic effects of fisetin and norfloxacin against aquatic isolates of Serratia marcescens.

PubMed

Dong, Jing; Ruan, Jing; Xu, Ning; Yang, Yibin; Ai, Xiaohui

2016-01-01

Serratia marcescens is a common pathogenic bacterium that can cause infections in both humans and animals. It can cause a range of diseases, from slight wound infections to life-threatening bacteraemia and pneumonia. The emergence of antimicrobial resistance has limited the treatment of the diseases caused by the bacterium to a great extent. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop novel antimicrobial strategies against this pathogen. Synergistic strategy is a new approach to treat the infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria. In this paper, we isolated and identified the first multi-resistant pathogenic Serratia marcescens strain from diseased soft-shelled turtles (Pelodiscus sinensis) in China. We then performed a checkerboard assay; the results showed that out of 10 tested natural products fisetin had synergistic effects against S. marcescens when combined with norfloxacin. The time-kill curve assay further confirmed the results of the checkerboard assay. We found that this novel synergistic effect could significantly reduce the dosage of norfloxacin against S. marcescens. © FEMS 2015. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Pathological Calcification and Ossification in Relation to Leriche and Policard's Theory

PubMed Central

Jones, Watson; Roberts, R. E.

1933-01-01

(1) Pathology of calcification and ossification.—The Leriche-Policard theories. Hyperæmia of bone causes decalcification. Reduced blood supply causes sclerosis. Diminution of vascularity of fibrous tissue causes calcification. Excess of calcium, adequate blood supply and fibroblasts give rise to bone anywhere. Subperiosteal ossification. “Myositis ossificans.” (2) Radiological significance of density of bone shadows.—Decalcification of disuse, of infections, of neoplasms. Traumatic and infective scquestra. Evidence that a fragment of bone is avascular. (3) Hyperæmic decalcification of bone.—Delayed and non-union of fractures. Kummel's disease. Spontaneous hyperæmic dislocation of the atlas. Hyperæmic decalcification and nephrolithiasis. (4) Anæmic sclerosis of bone.—Syphilitic bone disease. Malignant bone disease. Fragility of sclerosed bone—Paget's, Kienboch's, Kohler's and Panner's, Albers-Schönberg's diseases. (5) Pathological calcification.—Calcification of supraspinatus tendon. Calcification of tumours—angioma, hæmatoma, and thrombosed vessels, lipoma, cysts, etc. Calcification of semilunar cartilages and intervertebral discs. (6) Pathological ossification.—Ossification of tendons. Ossification of semilunar cartilages. PMID:19989304

APSA Awardee Submission: Tumor/cancer stem cell marker doublecortin-like kinase 1 in liver diseases.

PubMed

Nguyen, Charles B; Houchen, Courtney W; Ali, Naushad

2017-02-01

Liver diseases are the fourth leading cause of mortality among adults in the United States. Patients with chronic liver diseases such as viral hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis have significantly higher risks of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). With a dismal five-year survival rate of 11%, HCC is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Regardless of the underlying cause, late presentation and a lack of effective therapy are the major impediments for successful treatment of HCC. Therefore, there is a considerable interest in developing new strategies for the prevention and treatment of chronic liver diseases at the early stages. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small cell subpopulation in a tumor, exhibit unlimited self-renewal and differentiation capacity. These cells are believed to play pivotal roles in the initiation, growth, metastasis, and drug-resistance of tumors. In this review, we will briefly discuss pivotal roles of the CSC marker doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) in hepatic tumorigenesis. Recent evidence suggests that anti-DCLK1 strategies hold promising clinical potential for the treatment of cancers of the liver, pancreas, and colon.

Costs resulting from premature mortality due to cardiovascular causes: A 20-year follow-up of the DRECE study.

PubMed

Gómez-de la Cámara, A; Pinilla-Domínguez, P; Vázquez-Fernández Del Pozo, S; García-Pérez, L; Rubio-Herrera, M A; Gómez-Gerique, J A; Gutiérrez-Fuentes, J A; Rivero-Cuadrado, A; Serrano-Aguilar, P

2014-10-01

Cardiovascular diseases are still the leading cause of death in Spain. The DRECE study (Diet and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Spain), based on a representative cohort of the Spanish general population, analyzed nutritional habits and lifestyle and their association with morbidity and mortality patterns. We estimated the impact, in terms of loss of productivity, of premature mortality attributed to cardiovascular diseases. The loss of productivity attributed to premature mortality was calculated from 1991, based on the potential years of life lost and the potential years of working life lost. During the 20-year follow-up of a cohort of 4779 patients, 225 of these patients died (men, 152). Sixteen percent of the deaths were attributed to cardiovascular disease. The costs due to lost productivity by premature mortality exceeded 29 million euros. Of these, 4 million euros (14% of the total cost) were due to cardiovascular causes. Premature cardiovascular mortality in the DRECE cohort represented a significant social cost due to lost productivity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

The effects of diabetes on the risks of major cardiovascular diseases and death in the Asia-Pacific region.

PubMed

Woodward, M; Zhang, X; Barzi, F; Pan, W; Ueshima, H; Rodgers, A; MacMahon, S

2003-02-01

To provide reliable age- and region-specific estimates of the associations between diabetes and major cardiovascular diseases and death in populations from the Asia-Pacific region. Twenty-four cohort studies from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand (median follow-up, 5.4 years) provided individual participant data from 161,214 people (58% from Asia) of whom 4,873 had a history of diabetes at baseline. The associations of diabetes with the risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, and cause-specific mortality during follow-up were estimated using time-dependent Cox models, stratified by study cohort and sex and adjusted for age at risk. In all, 9,277 deaths occurred (3,635 from cardiovascular disease). The hazard ratio (95% CI) associated with diabetes was 1.97 (1.72-2.25) for fatal cardiovascular disease; there were similar hazard ratios for fatal coronary heart disease, fatal stroke, and composites of fatal and nonfatal outcomes. For all cardiovascular outcomes, hazard ratios were similar in Asian and non-Asian populations and in men and women, but were greater in younger than older individuals. For noncardiovascular death, the hazard ratio was 1.56 (1.38-1.77), with separately significant increases in the risks of death from renal disease, cancer, respiratory infections, and other infective causes. The hazard ratio for all-causes mortality was 1.68 (1.55-1.84), with similar ratios in Asian and non-Asian populations, but with significantly higher ratios in younger than older individuals. The relative effect of diabetes on the risks of cardiovascular disease and death in Asian populations is much the same as that in the largely Caucasian populations of Australia and New Zealand. Hazard ratios were severalfold greater in younger people than older people. The rapidly growing prevalence of diabetes in Asia heralds a large increase in the incidence of diabetes-related death in the coming decades.

Mortality of a cohort of road construction and maintenance workers with work disability compensation.

PubMed

d'Errico, A; Mamo, C; Tomaino, A; Dalmasso, M; Demaria, M; Costa, G

2002-01-01

Surveillance systems of occupational mortality are useful tools to identify cases of diseases suspected as occupational and to monitor their occurrence over time, in space and in population subgroups. Many surveillance systems make use of administrative data in which information about occupations and/or economic sectors of the subjects enrolled is reported, such as death certificates, hospital discharge data, census data, tax and pension records, and workers' compensation archives. In the present study we analyzed the mortality of a cohort of road construction and maintenance workers enrolled through the Italian national archive of work disability compensations, also in order to evaluate the possible use of this administrative source to monitor occupational mortality. 8,000 subjects (7,879 males) receiving a disability compensation while working in the "road construction and maintenance" sector were identified from INAIL (National Institute for Insurance of Accidents at Work) archives. Vital status of these subjects was ascertained using the information available in INAIL archives and in the national tax register. For those found to be deceased from INAIL or tax archives, or without any information on vital status, a mail follow-up was started. We considered as observation period the years from 1980 to 1993. A record linkage with the ISTAT (Italian Institute of Statistics) national mortality registry was performed and the cause of death was retrieved for 964 out of 1,259 subjects. The analysis was restricted to males, leaving altogether 863 observed deaths with ascertained cause (84.7% of 1,019 total male deaths). SMR for overall mortality and PMR for specific cause mortality were computed, using the general Italian male population as reference. Overall mortality was significantly reduced (SMR = 79.0; 95% CI = 74.2-84.0). Proportional mortality analysis revealed significant excess risks for all malignant tumours (332 deaths, PMR = 1.08) and for digestive diseases (87 deaths, PMR = 1.34), while mortality for cardiovascular diseases was significantly decreased (288 deaths, PMR = 0.90). Among specific causes of death, significant excess mortality was found for cancer of testicles (2 deaths, PMR = 5.98), liver and biliary ducts (32 deaths, PMR = 1.40), and for silicosis (10 deaths, PMR = 3.07) and cirrhosis (64 deaths, PMR = 1.40). The excess mortality observed for all cancers, digestive diseases and silicosis, and the decreased risk for cardiovascular diseases are in agreement with the results of other studies conducted on workers in road construction and maintenance. As expected, the low overall mortality and the reduced risk from cardiovascular diseases indicate that these workers present a strong "healthy worker effect".

Secondary Pulmonary Hypertension and Right-Sided Heart Failure at Presentation in Grave's Disease.

PubMed

Ganeshpure, Swapnil Panjabrao; Vaidya, Gaurang Nandkishor; Gattani, Vipul

2012-01-01

A young female presented with evidence of right-sided heart failure and was subsequently found to have significant pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). Because of her normal left ventricular function and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, the most probable site of etiology seemed to be the pulmonary vasculature. All the common possible secondary causes of PAH were ruled out, but during the investigations, she was found to have elevated thyroid function tests compatible with the diagnosis of Grave's disease. The treatment of Grave's disease, initially by medications and subsequently by radioiodine therapy, was associated with a significant reduction in the pulmonary artery systolic pressure. The purpose of this case report is to highlight one of the unusual and underdiagnosed presentations of Grave's disease.

Clinical features of Crohn disease concomitant with ankylosing spondylitis

PubMed Central

Liu, Song; Ding, Jie; Wang, Meng; Zhou, Wanqing; Feng, Min; Guan, Wenxian

2016-01-01

Abstract Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) cause increased morbidity and decreased quality of life in Crohn disease (CD). Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) belongs to EIMs. Very little is known on the clinical features of CD concomitant with AS. This study is to investigate the clinical features of CD patients with AS. We retrospectively collected all CD patients with AS in our hospital, and established a comparison group (CD without AS) with age, sex, and duration of Crohn disease matched. Clinical information was retrieved for comparison. Eight CD + AS patients were identified from 195 CD patients. Sixteen CD patients were randomly selected into comparison group. All CD + AS patients were male, HLA-B27 (+), and rheumatoid factor (−) with an average age of 40.8 ± 4.52 years. Significant correlation between disease activity of CD and AS was revealed (r = 0.857, P = 0.011). Significant correlation between disease activity of CD and functional limitation associated with AS was identified (r = 0.881, P < 0.01). C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and globulin were positively correlated to Crohn disease activity index (CDAI), Bath AS disease activity index, and Bath AS functional index(BASFI) scores (r = 0.73–0.93, P < 0.05). Albumin was negatively associated with CDAI and BASFI (r = −0.73 to −0.91, P < 0.05). The ratio of albumin to globulin (Alb/Glo) was significantly related to all 3 scores (r = −0.81 to −0.91, P < 0.05). Male predominance with a 4.12% concomitant incidence of AS is observed in CD patients. Disease activity of CD correlates with disease activity of AS and functional limitation caused by AS. CRP, ESR, and Alb/Glo may serve as biomarkers for disease activity and functional limitation in CD patients concomitant with AS, although future studies are expected. PMID:27428240

Clinical features of Crohn disease concomitant with ankylosing spondylitis: A preliminary single-center study.

PubMed

Liu, Song; Ding, Jie; Wang, Meng; Zhou, Wanqing; Feng, Min; Guan, Wenxian

2016-07-01

Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) cause increased morbidity and decreased quality of life in Crohn disease (CD). Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) belongs to EIMs. Very little is known on the clinical features of CD concomitant with AS. This study is to investigate the clinical features of CD patients with AS.We retrospectively collected all CD patients with AS in our hospital, and established a comparison group (CD without AS) with age, sex, and duration of Crohn disease matched. Clinical information was retrieved for comparison.Eight CD + AS patients were identified from 195 CD patients. Sixteen CD patients were randomly selected into comparison group. All CD + AS patients were male, HLA-B27 (+), and rheumatoid factor (-) with an average age of 40.8 ± 4.52 years. Significant correlation between disease activity of CD and AS was revealed (r = 0.857, P = 0.011). Significant correlation between disease activity of CD and functional limitation associated with AS was identified (r = 0.881, P < 0.01). C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and globulin were positively correlated to Crohn disease activity index (CDAI), Bath AS disease activity index, and Bath AS functional index(BASFI) scores (r = 0.73-0.93, P < 0.05). Albumin was negatively associated with CDAI and BASFI (r = -0.73 to -0.91, P < 0.05). The ratio of albumin to globulin (Alb/Glo) was significantly related to all 3 scores (r = -0.81 to -0.91, P < 0.05).Male predominance with a 4.12% concomitant incidence of AS is observed in CD patients. Disease activity of CD correlates with disease activity of AS and functional limitation caused by AS. CRP, ESR, and Alb/Glo may serve as biomarkers for disease activity and functional limitation in CD patients concomitant with AS, although future studies are expected.

SEASONALITY OF ROTAVIRUS IN SOUTH ASIA: A META-ANALYSIS APPROACH ASSESSING ASSOCIATIONS WITH TEMPERATURE, PRECIPTATION, AND VEGETATION INDEX

EPA Science Inventory

Background: Rotavirus infection causes a significant proportion of diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide leading to dehydration, hospitalization, and in some cases death. Rotavirus infection represents a significant burden of disease in developing countries, such as th...

Causes of referral to the first endocrine visit of patients with thyroid carcinoma in a mildly iodine-deficient area.

PubMed

Marina, Michela; Ceda, Gian Paolo; Aldigeri, Raffaella; Ceresini, Graziano

2017-08-01

To evaluate the causes of the first referral to an endocrine visit of patients with thyroid cancer in a mildly iodine-deficient area and to correlate them with prognostic features. We studied 298 consecutive patients (64 M and 234 F) with thyroid cancer. Of these, 281 had differentiated thyroid cancer. The causes of referral were categorized as follows: (Group A) clinical evidence of a neck lump; (Group B) incidental imaging in subjects without known thyroid diseases; (Group C) incidental imaging during a workup of thyroid disorders. Also, in differentiated thyroid cancer cases, clinical, histomorphologic, and prognostic parameters were compared among the three different groups of referral causes. In both total thyroid cancer and differentiated thyroid cancer cohorts, Group A, B, and C accounted for about 25, 35, and 40 % of causes, respectively. Considering the differentiated thyroid cancer, in Group B, ultrasound accounted for 94 % of cases, with 73 % resulting from screening or serendipitous study. Within a median follow-up of 5.6 [IQR: 2.7-9.5] years, disease-free survival was significantly lower in patients of Group A (Log-Rank test p = 0.030 vs. the other groups of causes). However, at the Cox multivariate analysis only male sex (p = 0.002) and stage (p = 0.005), but not referral cause, resulted independent predictors of events. In patients without known thyroid disease, unjustified thyroid ultrasound represents the main cause of referral of thyroid cancer patients to the first endocrine visit. The fact that this is not related to the disease-free survival strengthens the concept of the uselessness of thyroid cancer screening.

Cell biomechanics and its applications in human disease diagnosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nematbakhsh, Yasaman; Lim, Chwee Teck

2015-04-01

Certain diseases are known to cause changes in the physical and biomechanical properties of cells. These include cancer, malaria, and sickle cell anemia among others. Typically, such physical property changes can result in several fold increases or decreases in cell stiffness, which are significant and can result in severe pathology and eventual catastrophic breakdown of the bodily functions. While there are developed biochemical and biological assays to detect the onset or presence of diseases, there is always a need to develop more rapid, precise, and sensitive methods to detect and diagnose diseases. Biomechanical property changes can play a significant role in this regard. As such, research into disease biomechanics can not only give us an in-depth knowledge of the mechanisms underlying disease progression, but can also serve as a powerful tool for detection and diagnosis. This article provides some insights into opportunities for how significant changes in cellular mechanical properties during onset or progression of a disease can be utilized as useful means for detection and diagnosis. We will also showcase several technologies that have already been developed to perform such detection and diagnosis.

World Health Organization Global Estimates and Regional Comparisons of the Burden of Foodborne Disease in 2010

PubMed Central

Havelaar, Arie H.; Kirk, Martyn D.; Torgerson, Paul R.; Gibb, Herman J.; Hald, Tine; Lake, Robin J.; Praet, Nicolas; Bellinger, David C.; de Silva, Nilanthi R.; Gargouri, Neyla; Speybroeck, Niko; Cawthorne, Amy; Mathers, Colin; Stein, Claudia; Angulo, Frederick J.; Devleesschauwer, Brecht

2015-01-01

Illness and death from diseases caused by contaminated food are a constant threat to public health and a significant impediment to socio-economic development worldwide. To measure the global and regional burden of foodborne disease (FBD), the World Health Organization (WHO) established the Foodborne Disease Burden Epidemiology Reference Group (FERG), which here reports their first estimates of the incidence, mortality, and disease burden due to 31 foodborne hazards. We find that the global burden of FBD is comparable to those of the major infectious diseases, HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. The most frequent causes of foodborne illness were diarrheal disease agents, particularly norovirus and Campylobacter spp. Diarrheal disease agents, especially non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica, were also responsible for the majority of deaths due to FBD. Other major causes of FBD deaths were Salmonella Typhi, Taenia solium and hepatitis A virus. The global burden of FBD caused by the 31 hazards in 2010 was 33 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs); children under five years old bore 40% of this burden. The 14 subregions, defined on the basis of child and adult mortality, had considerably different burdens of FBD, with the greatest falling on the subregions in Africa, followed by the subregions in South-East Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean D subregion. Some hazards, such as non-typhoidal S. enterica, were important causes of FBD in all regions of the world, whereas others, such as certain parasitic helminths, were highly localised. Thus, the burden of FBD is borne particularly by children under five years old–although they represent only 9% of the global population–and people living in low-income regions of the world. These estimates are conservative, i.e., underestimates rather than overestimates; further studies are needed to address the data gaps and limitations of the study. Nevertheless, all stakeholders can contribute to improvements in food safety throughout the food chain by incorporating these estimates into policy development at national and international levels. PMID:26633896

World Health Organization Global Estimates and Regional Comparisons of the Burden of Foodborne Disease in 2010.

PubMed

Havelaar, Arie H; Kirk, Martyn D; Torgerson, Paul R; Gibb, Herman J; Hald, Tine; Lake, Robin J; Praet, Nicolas; Bellinger, David C; de Silva, Nilanthi R; Gargouri, Neyla; Speybroeck, Niko; Cawthorne, Amy; Mathers, Colin; Stein, Claudia; Angulo, Frederick J; Devleesschauwer, Brecht

2015-12-01

Illness and death from diseases caused by contaminated food are a constant threat to public health and a significant impediment to socio-economic development worldwide. To measure the global and regional burden of foodborne disease (FBD), the World Health Organization (WHO) established the Foodborne Disease Burden Epidemiology Reference Group (FERG), which here reports their first estimates of the incidence, mortality, and disease burden due to 31 foodborne hazards. We find that the global burden of FBD is comparable to those of the major infectious diseases, HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. The most frequent causes of foodborne illness were diarrheal disease agents, particularly norovirus and Campylobacter spp. Diarrheal disease agents, especially non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica, were also responsible for the majority of deaths due to FBD. Other major causes of FBD deaths were Salmonella Typhi, Taenia solium and hepatitis A virus. The global burden of FBD caused by the 31 hazards in 2010 was 33 million Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs); children under five years old bore 40% of this burden. The 14 subregions, defined on the basis of child and adult mortality, had considerably different burdens of FBD, with the greatest falling on the subregions in Africa, followed by the subregions in South-East Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean D subregion. Some hazards, such as non-typhoidal S. enterica, were important causes of FBD in all regions of the world, whereas others, such as certain parasitic helminths, were highly localised. Thus, the burden of FBD is borne particularly by children under five years old-although they represent only 9% of the global population-and people living in low-income regions of the world. These estimates are conservative, i.e., underestimates rather than overestimates; further studies are needed to address the data gaps and limitations of the study. Nevertheless, all stakeholders can contribute to improvements in food safety throughout the food chain by incorporating these estimates into policy development at national and international levels.

Neglected Tropical Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: Review of Their Prevalence, Distribution, and Disease Burden

PubMed Central

Hotez, Peter J.; Kamath, Aruna

2009-01-01

The neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are the most common conditions affecting the poorest 500 million people living in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), and together produce a burden of disease that may be equivalent to up to one-half of SSA's malaria disease burden and more than double that caused by tuberculosis. Approximately 85% of the NTD disease burden results from helminth infections. Hookworm infection occurs in almost half of SSA's poorest people, including 40–50 million school-aged children and 7 million pregnant women in whom it is a leading cause of anemia. Schistosomiasis is the second most prevalent NTD after hookworm (192 million cases), accounting for 93% of the world's number of cases and possibly associated with increased horizontal transmission of HIV/AIDS. Lymphatic filariasis (46–51 million cases) and onchocerciasis (37 million cases) are also widespread in SSA, each disease representing a significant cause of disability and reduction in the region's agricultural productivity. There is a dearth of information on Africa's non-helminth NTDs. The protozoan infections, human African trypanosomiasis and visceral leishmaniasis, affect almost 100,000 people, primarily in areas of conflict in SSA where they cause high mortality, and where trachoma is the most prevalent bacterial NTD (30 million cases). However, there are little or no data on some very important protozoan infections, e.g., amebiasis and toxoplasmosis; bacterial infections, e.g., typhoid fever and non-typhoidal salmonellosis, the tick-borne bacterial zoonoses, and non-tuberculosis mycobaterial infections; and arboviral infections. Thus, the overall burden of Africa's NTDs may be severely underestimated. A full assessment is an important step for disease control priorities, particularly in Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the greatest number of NTDs may occur. PMID:19707588

Chewing betel quid and the risk of metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Yamada, Tomohide; Hara, Kazuo; Kadowaki, Takashi

2013-01-01

Betel nut (Areca nut) is the fruit of the Areca catechu tree. Approximately 700 million individuals regularly chew betel nut (or betel quid) worldwide and it is a known risk factor for oral cancer and esophageal cancer. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the influence of chewing betel quid on metabolic diseases, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. We searched Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Science Direct for pertinent articles (including the references) published between 1951 and 2013. The adjusted relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval were calculated using the random effect model. Sex was used as an independent category for comparison. Of 580 potentially relevant studies, 17 studies from Asia (5 cohort studies and 12 case-control studies) covering 388,134 subjects (range: 94 to 97,244) were selected. Seven studies (N = 121,585) showed significant dose-response relationships between betel quid consumption and the risk of events. According to pooled analysis, the adjusted RR of betel quid chewers vs. non-chewers was 1.47 (P<0.001) for obesity (N = 30,623), 1.51 (P = 0.01) for metabolic syndrome (N = 23,291), 1.47 (P<0.001) for diabetes (N = 51,412), 1.45 (P = 0.06) for hypertension (N = 89,051), 1.2 (P = 0.02) for cardiovascular disease (N = 201,488), and 1.21 (P = 0.02) for all-cause mortality (N = 179,582). Betel quid chewing is associated with an increased risk of metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. Thus, in addition to preventing oral cancer, stopping betel quid use could be a valuable public health measure for metabolic diseases that are showing a rapid increase in South-East Asia and the Western Pacific.

Effectiveness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-management programs: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Peytremann-Bridevaux, Isabelle; Staeger, Philippe; Bridevaux, Pierre-Olivier; Ghali, William A; Burnand, Bernard

2008-05-01

Disease-management programs may enhance the quality of care provided to patients with chronic diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of COPD disease-management programs. We conducted a computerized search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsychINFO, and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) for studies evaluating interventions meeting our operational definition of disease management: patient education, 2 or more different intervention components, 2 or more health care professionals actively involved in patients' care, and intervention lasting 12 months or more. Programs conducted in hospital only and those targeting patients receiving palliative care were excluded. Two reviewers evaluated 12,749 titles and fully reviewed 139 articles; among these, data from 13 studies were included and extracted. Clinical outcomes considered were all-cause mortality, lung function, exercise capacity (walking distance), health-related quality of life, symptoms, COPD exacerbations, and health care use. A meta-analysis of exercise capacity and all-cause mortality was performed using random-effects models. The studies included were 9 randomized controlled trials, 1 controlled trial, and 3 uncontrolled before-after trials. Results indicate that the disease-management programs studied significantly improved exercise capacity (32.2 m, 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.1-60.3), decreased risk of hospitalization, and moderately improved health-related quality of life. All-cause mortality did not differ between groups (pooled odds ratio 0.84, 95% CI, 0.54-1.40). COPD disease-management programs modestly improved exercise capacity, health-related quality of life, and hospital admissions, but not all-cause mortality. Future studies should explore the specific elements or characteristics of these programs that bring the greatest benefit.

[Causes of death with a functioning graft among kidney allograft recipients].

PubMed

Vega, Jorge; Videla, Christian; Borja, Hernán; Goecke, Helmuth; Martínez, Felipe; Betancour, Pablo

2012-03-01

Death with a functioning graft (DWGF) is now one of the main causes of renal transplant (RTx) loss. To determine whether the causes of DWGF, characteristics of donors and recipients and complications of RTx have changed in the last two decades. Cooperative study of a cohort of 418 kidney grafts performed between 1968 and 2010. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether their kidney transplants were performed between 1968 and 1992 (Group 1) or 1993 and 2010 (Group 2). Sixty eight patients experienced DWGF. Infections were the leading cause of DWGF in both groups (38 and 41%, respectively), followed by cardiovascular diseases (24 and 23% respectively), gastrointestinal disorders (21 and 26% respectively) and cancer (17 and 10% respectively). There were no significant differences in causes of death between the two groups according to the time elapsed since the renal transplantation. In patients in Group 1, the interval between diagnosis of renal failure and dialysis (HD) and the interval between the start of HD and kidney transplantation were significantly lower than in Group 2. The former had also an increased number of acute rejections in the first five years of kidney transplantation (p < 0.001). In Group 2, patients more often received their kidneys from deceased donors, had previous kidney transplantation, higher rate of antibodies to a panel of lymphocytes and an increased incidence of cardiovascular disorders after five years of RTx. The proportion of graft loss due to DWGF has increased over the last 2 decades, but its causes have not changed significantly. Infections are the most common causes of DWGF followed by cardiovascular and digestive diseases.

About Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

MedlinePlus

... for Heart.org CPR & ECC for Heart.org Shop for Heart.org Causes for Heart.org Advocate ... grow large enough to significantly reduce the blood's flow through an artery. When a plaque becomes brittle ...

Geographic distribution of dementia mortality: elevated mortality rates for black and white Americans by place of birth.

PubMed

Glymour, M Maria; Kosheleva, Anna; Wadley, Virginia G; Weiss, Christopher; Manly, Jennifer J

2011-01-01

We hypothesized that patterns of elevated stroke mortality among those born in the United States Stroke Belt (SB) states also prevailed for mortality related to all-cause dementia or Alzheimer Disease. Cause-specific mortality (contributing cause of death, including underlying cause cases) rates in 2000 for United States-born African Americans and whites aged 65 to 89 years were calculated by linking national mortality records with population data based on race, sex, age, and birth state or state of residence in 2000. Birth in a SB state (NC, SC, GA, TN, AR, MS, or AL) was cross-classified against SB residence at the 2000 Census. Compared with those who were not born in the SB, odds of all-cause dementia mortality were significantly elevated by 29% for African Americans and 19% for whites born in the SB. These patterns prevailed among individuals who no longer lived in the SB at death. Patterns were similar for Alzheimer Disease-related mortality. Some non-SB states were also associated with significant elevations in dementia-related mortality. Dementia mortality rates follow geographic patterns similar to stroke mortality, with elevated rates among those born in the SB. This suggests important roles for geographically patterned childhood exposures in establishing cognitive reserve.

Primary prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary care.

PubMed

van der Molen, Thys; Schokker, Siebrig

2009-12-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent disease, with cigarette smoking being the main risk factor. Prevention is crucial in the fight against COPD. Whereas primary prevention is targeted on whole populations, patient populations are the focus of primary care; therefore, prevention in this setting is mainly aimed at preventing further deterioration of the disease in patients who present with the first signs of disease (secondary prevention). Prevention of COPD in primary care requires detection of COPD at an early stage. An accurate definition of COPD is crucial in this identification process. The benefits of detecting new patients with COPD should be determined before recommending screening and case-finding programs in primary care. No evidence is available that screening by spirometry results in significant health gains. Effective treatment options in patients with mild disease are lacking. Smoking cessation is the cornerstone of COPD prevention. Because cigarette smoking is not only a major cause of COPD but is also a major cause of many other diseases, a decline in tobacco smoking would result in substantial health benefits.

Stargardt disease: towards developing a model to predict phenotype.

PubMed

Heathfield, Laura; Lacerda, Miguel; Nossek, Christel; Roberts, Lisa; Ramesar, Rajkumar S

2013-10-01

Stargardt disease is an ABCA4-associated retinopathy, which generally follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern and is a frequent cause of macular degeneration in childhood. ABCA4 displays significant allelic heterogeneity whereby different mutations can cause retinal diseases with varying severity and age of onset. A genotype-phenotype model has been proposed linking ABCA4 mutations, purported ABCA4 functional protein activity and severity of disease, as measured by degree of visual loss and the age of onset. It has, however, been difficult to verify this model statistically in observational studies, as the number of individuals sharing any particular mutation combination is typically low. Seven founder mutations have been identified in a large number of Caucasian Afrikaner patients in South Africa, making it possible to test the genotype-phenotype model. A generalised linear model was developed to predict and assess the relative pathogenic contribution of the seven mutations to the age of onset of Stargardt disease. It is shown that the pathogenicity of an individual mutation can differ significantly depending on the genetic context in which it occurs. The results reported here may be used to identify suitable candidates for inclusion in clinical trials, as well as guide the genetic counselling of affected individuals and families.

Stargardt Disease: towards developing a model to predict phenotype

PubMed Central

Heathfield, Laura; Lacerda, Miguel; Nossek, Christel; Roberts, Lisa; Ramesar, Rajkumar S

2013-01-01

Stargardt disease is an ABCA4-associated retinopathy, which generally follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern and is a frequent cause of macular degeneration in childhood. ABCA4 displays significant allelic heterogeneity whereby different mutations can cause retinal diseases with varying severity and age of onset. A genotype–phenotype model has been proposed linking ABCA4 mutations, purported ABCA4 functional protein activity and severity of disease, as measured by degree of visual loss and the age of onset. It has, however, been difficult to verify this model statistically in observational studies, as the number of individuals sharing any particular mutation combination is typically low. Seven founder mutations have been identified in a large number of Caucasian Afrikaner patients in South Africa, making it possible to test the genotype–phenotype model. A generalised linear model was developed to predict and assess the relative pathogenic contribution of the seven mutations to the age of onset of Stargardt disease. It is shown that the pathogenicity of an individual mutation can differ significantly depending on the genetic context in which it occurs. The results reported here may be used to identify suitable candidates for inclusion in clinical trials, as well as guide the genetic counselling of affected individuals and families. PMID:23695285

Cross-sectional study of high-sensitivity cardiac troponins T and I in a hospital and community outpatient setting.

PubMed

Potter, Julia M; Simpson, Aaron J; Kerrigan, Jennifer; Southcott, Emma; Salib, Marie M; Koerbin, Gus; Hickman, Peter E

2017-02-01

Cardiac troponins are specific for the heart, but not for the acute coronary syndrome. We wanted to assess how common elevated cardiac troponin concentrations were, in a population with significant non-cardiac disease. We measured both hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI on all samples submitted to the laboratory during one 24h period, and assessed the magnitude of the cTn concentration with the location and severity of disease of the patient. Community patients and patients from the maternity ward had the lowest cTn concentrations with results above the 99th percentile being only 0-2% of the total. As expected, the highest proportion of results >99th percentile came from Coronary Care and Intensive Care. However, substantial numbers of persons on Medical and Surgical wards, without a primary diagnosis of cardiac disease, also had cTn >99th percentile. Particularly for cTnT, there was a highly significant odds ratio predicting mortality when results above and below the 99th percentile were compared. Significant illnesses apart from the acute coronary syndrome are important causes of a rise in cTn to above the 99th percentile, and appear to reflect the total body burden of disease. Even when the high hs-cTn concentration is not due to the acute coronary syndrome, there is a significant association with all-cause mortality. Copyright © 2016 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Extended Release Niacin on Cardiovascular Events and Kidney Function in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Post-Hoc Analysis of the AIM-HIGH Trial

PubMed Central

Kalil, Roberto S.; Wang, Jeffrey H.; de Boer, Ian H.; Mathew, Roy O.; Ix, Joachim H.; Asif, Arif; Shi, Xuefeng; Boden, William E.

2014-01-01

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients is strongly associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and prevalent abnormal lipid metabolism. The AIM-HIGH trial examined the benefits of adding extended-release niacin (ERN) to simvastatin in patients with established coronary heart disease. Here we conducted a post-hoc analysis of the AIM-HIGH trial examining whether participants derived cardiovascular or renal benefits when stratified by renal function. Of 3414 participants, 505 had stage 3 CKD at baseline. Among the CKD subset, demographics and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors were well balanced in the ERN and placebo arms. Compared to placebo, CKD participants receiving ERN had a significant decrease in triglycerides by a median of 59.0 mg/dL, and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol significantly increased by a mean of 11.3 mg/dL over a mean follow-up of 3 years. CVD events were similar between CKD participants in both arms. However, all-cause mortality was significantly higher in the ERN group (hazard ratio of 1.73). Mean change in eGFR among ERN-treated CKD participants was not significantly different between study arms. Thus, among AIM-HIGH participants with CKD, the addition of ERN to simvastatin for secondary prevention of CVD improved triglyceride and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations but did not improve cardiovascular outcomes or kidney function, and was associated with higher all-cause mortality. PMID:25651367

Effect of extended-release niacin on cardiovascular events and kidney function in chronic kidney disease: a post hoc analysis of the AIM-HIGH trial.

PubMed

Kalil, Roberto S; Wang, Jeffrey H; de Boer, Ian H; Mathew, Roy O; Ix, Joachim H; Asif, Arif; Shi, Xuefeng; Boden, William E

2015-06-01

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients is strongly associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and prevalent abnormal lipid metabolism. The AIM-HIGH trial examined the benefits of adding extended-release niacin (ERN) to simvastatin in patients with established coronary heart disease. Here we conducted a post hoc analysis of the AIM-HIGH trial examining whether participants derived cardiovascular or renal benefits when stratified by renal function. Of 3414 participants, 505 had stage 3 CKD at baseline. Among the CKD subset, demographics and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors were well balanced in the ERN and placebo arms. Compared with placebo, CKD participants receiving ERN had a significant decrease in triglycerides by a median of 59.0 mg/dl, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly increased by a mean of 11.3 mg/dl over a mean follow-up of 3 years. CVD events were similar between CKD participants in both arms. However, all-cause mortality was significantly higher in the ERN group (hazard ratio of 1.73). Mean change in eGFR among ERN-treated CKD participants was not significantly different between study arms. Thus, among AIM-HIGH participants with CKD, the addition of ERN to simvastatin for secondary prevention of CVD improved triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations but did not improve cardiovascular outcomes or kidney function, and was associated with higher all-cause mortality.

The Effect of Heart Disease on Anesthetic Complications During Routine Dental Procedures in Dogs.

PubMed

Carter, Jennifer E; Motsinger-Reif, Alison A; Krug, William V; Keene, Bruce W

Dental procedures are a common reason for general anesthesia, and there is widespread concern among veterinarians that heart disease increases the occurrence of anesthetic complications. Anxiety about anesthetizing dogs with heart disease is a common cause of referral to specialty centers. To begin to address the potential effect of heart disease on anesthetic complications in dogs undergoing anesthesia for routine dental procedures, we compared anesthetic complications in 100 dogs with heart disease severe enough to trigger referral to a specialty center (cases) to those found in 100 dogs without cardiac disease (controls) that underwent similar procedures at the same teaching hospital. Medical records were reviewed to evaluate the occurrence of anesthetic complications. No dogs died in either group, and no significant differences were found between the groups in any of the anesthetic complications evaluated, although dogs in the heart disease group were significantly older with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists scores. Midazolam and etomidate were used more frequently, and alpha-2 agonists used less frequently, in the heart disease group compared to controls. This study suggests dogs with heart disease, when anesthetized by trained personnel and carefully monitored during routine dental procedures, are not at significantly increased risk for anesthetic complications.

Effect of antitumour necrosis factor-alpha therapy on bone turnover in patients with active Crohn's disease: a prospective study.

PubMed

Ryan, B M; Russel, M G V M; Schurgers, L; Wichers, M; Sijbrandij, J; Stockbrugger, R W; Schoon, E

2004-10-15

Patients with Crohn's disease are at increased risk of osteoporosis. Disease activity and circulating proinflammatory cytokines are thought to play a role in this process. Infliximab, a chimaeric antitumour necrosis factor-alpha antibody is effective in the treatment of Crohn's disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of treatment with infliximab on bone turnover in Crohn's disease patients. This was a prospective trial. Twenty-four patients with active Crohn's disease were treated with infliximab (5 mg/kg). Bone markers were assayed pre- and post-treatment. Bone formation was measured using serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and total osteocalcin and bone resorption using serum N-telopeptide cross-linked type 1 collagen. Infliximab therapy caused a significant increase in both markers of bone formation in patients with active Crohn's disease. No significant change in the bone resorption marker serum N-telopeptide cross-linked type 1 was found. Infliximab therapy had a significant beneficial effect on bone metabolism in patients with active Crohn's disease. These findings further support the theory that active ongoing inflammation and high levels of circulating cytokines play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of bone loss in patients with Crohn's disease.

To live and die in L.A. County: neighborhood economic and social context and premature age-specific mortality rates among Latinos.

PubMed

Bjornstrom, Eileen

2011-01-01

This ecological study compares the utility of neighborhood economic, social, and co-ethnic concentration characteristics in explaining mortality among Latinos aged 25-64 due to all causes and heart disease in Los Angeles County from 2000 to 2004. Results indicate that local economic well-being and social resources are beneficial for both outcomes to varying degrees. Economic well-being is the strongest predictor of all-cause mortality rates among Latinos aged 25-64 and was the only characteristic that significantly predicted heart disease mortality among those aged 45-64. Among social resources, results indicate collective efficacy is comparatively more important for mortality in younger adults. Social interaction was associated with lower mortality but the effect was not significant for any outcome. Co-ethnic concentration was consistently associated with increased mortality, but only achieved significance for all-cause mortality in younger adults. This effect was mediated by neighborhood income. Though social resources appear to be beneficial to a lesser extent, results suggest policy should first aim to address income disparities across local communities. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dietary fiber intake and mortality in the NIH-AARP diet and health study.

PubMed

Park, Yikyung; Subar, Amy F; Hollenbeck, Albert; Schatzkin, Arthur

2011-06-27

Dietary fiber has been hypothesized to lower the risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. However, little is known of the effect of dietary fiber intake on total death and cause-specific deaths. We examined dietary fiber intake in relation to total mortality and death from specific causes in the NIH (National Institutes of Health)-AARP Diet and Health Study, a prospective cohort study. Diet was assessed using a food-frequency questionnaire at baseline. Cause of death was identified using the National Death Index Plus. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate relative risks and 2-sided 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During an average of 9 years of follow-up, we identified 20 126 deaths in men and 11 330 deaths in women. Dietary fiber intake was associated with a significantly lowered risk of total death in both men and women (multivariate relative risk comparing the highest with the lowest quintile, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.73-0.82; P for trend, <.001] in men and 0.78 [95% CI, 0.73-0.85; P for trend, <.001] in women). Dietary fiber intake also lowered the risk of death from cardiovascular, infectious, and respiratory diseases by 24% to 56% in men and by 34% to 59% in women. Inverse association between dietary fiber intake and cancer death was observed in men but not in women. Dietary fiber from grains, but not from other sources, was significantly inversely related to total and cause-specific death in both men and women. Dietary fiber may reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular, infectious, and respiratory diseases. Making fiber-rich food choices more often may provide significant health benefits.

Incremental prognostic value of kidney function decline over coronary artery disease for cardiovascular event prediction after coronary computed tomography.

PubMed

Bittencourt, Marcio S; Hulten, Edward A; Ghoshhajra, Brian; Abbara, Suhny; Murthy, Venkatesh L; Divakaran, Sanjay; Nasir, Khurram; Gowdak, Luis Henrique W; Riella, Leonardo V; Chiumiento, Marco; Hoffmann, Udo; Di Carli, Marcelo F; Blankstein, Ron

2015-07-01

It is unknown whether mild chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with adverse cardiovascular (CV) prognosis after accounting for coronary artery disease (CAD). Here we evaluated the interplay between CKD and CAD in predicting CV death or myocardial infarction (MI) and all-cause death. We included 1541 consecutive patients in the Partners registry (mean age 55 years, 43% female) over 18 years old with no known prior CAD who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). The results of CCTA were categorized as normal, nonobstructive (under half), or obstructive (half and over). Overall, 653 of the patients had no CAD, 583 had nonobstructive CAD, and 305 had obstructive CAD, while 1299 had eGFR over 60 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) and 242 had an eGFR under this value. The presence and severity of CAD was significantly associated with an increased rate of CV death or MI and all-cause death, even after adjustment for age, gender, symptoms, and risk factors. Similarly, reduced eGFR was significantly associated with CV death or MI and all-cause death after similar adjustment. The addition of reduced GFR to a model which included both clinical variables and CCTA findings resulted in significant improvement in the prediction of CV death or MI and all-cause death. Thus, among individuals referred for CCTA to evaluate CAD, renal dysfunction is associated with an increased rate of CV events, mainly driven by an increase in the rate of noncoronary CV events. In this group of patients, both eGFR and the presence and severity of CAD together improve the prediction of future CV events and death.

Drinking water contamination from perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): an ecological mortality study in the Veneto Region, Italy.

PubMed

Mastrantonio, Marina; Bai, Edoardo; Uccelli, Raffaella; Cordiano, Vincenzo; Screpanti, Augusto; Crosignani, Paolo

2018-02-01

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a heterogeneous group of highly stable man-made chemicals, have been widely used since 1960s and can be detected almost ubiquitously in all environmental matrices. In Italy, on January 2014, drinking water contamination in an area of the Veneto Region was detected mainly due to the drain of fluorinated chemicals by a manufacturing company operating since 1964. The present ecological mortality study was aimed at comparing mortality for some causes of death selected on the basis of previous reported associations, during the period 1980-2013, in municipalities with PFAS contaminated and uncontaminated drinking water on the basis of the levels indicated by the Italian National Health Institute (ISS). Sex-specific number, standardized mortality rates and rate ratios (RR) for PFAS contaminated and uncontaminated areas were computed for each cause of death through the ENEA epidemiological database. In both sexes, statistically significant RRs were detected for all causes mortality, diabetes, cerebrovascular diseases, myocardial infarction and Alzheimer's disease. In females, RRs significantly higher than 1.0 were also observed for kidney and breast cancer, and Parkinson's disease. Increased risk, although not statistically significant, was observed for bladder cancer in both sexes, and for testicular cancer, pancreatic cancer and leukemia in males only. Higher mortality levels for some causes of death, possibly associated with PFAS exposure, were detected in contaminated municipalities in comparison with uncontaminated ones with similar socioeconomic status and smoking habits. These results warrant further individual level analytic studies to delineate casual associations. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Public Health Association. All rights reserved.

Dietary fiber intake and mortality in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study

PubMed Central

Park, Yikyung; Subar, Amy F.; Hollenbeck, Albert; Schatzkin, Arthur

2012-01-01

Background Dietary fiber has been hypothesized to lower risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. However, little is known of the effect of dietary fiber on total death and cause-specific deaths. Methods We examined dietary fiber intake in relation to total mortality and death from specific causes in the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study, a prospective cohort study. Diet was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire at baseline. Cause of death was identified using the National Death Index Plus. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate relative risks (RRs) and two-sided 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results During an average of 9 years of follow-up, we identified 20,126 deaths in men and 11,330 deaths in women. Dietary fiber intake was associated with significantly lowered risk of total death in both men and women (multivariate RR comparing the highest vs. the lowest quintile =0.78, 95% CI:0.73–0.82, p-trend, <0.001 in men; 0.78. 95% CI:0.73–0.85, p-trend, <0.001 in women). Dietary fiber intake also lowered risk of death from cardiovascular, infectious, and respiratory diseases by 24%–56% in men and 34%–59% in women. Inverse association between dietary fiber intake and cancer death was observed in men, but not in women. Dietary fiber from grains, but not from other sources, was significantly inversely related to total and cause-specific death in both men and women. Conclusions Dietary fiber may reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular, infectious and respiratory diseases. Making fiber-rich food choices more often may provide significant health benefits. PMID:21321288

Why Eve is not Adam: prospective follow-up in 149650 women and men of cholesterol and other risk factors related to cardiovascular and all-cause mortality.

PubMed

Ulmer, Hanno; Kelleher, Cecily; Diem, Günter; Concin, Hans

2004-01-01

To assess the impact of sex-specific patterns in cholesterol levels on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in the Vorarlberg Health Monitoring and Promotion Programme (VHM&PP). In this study, 67413 men and 82237 women (aged 20-95 years) underwent 454448 standardized examinations, which included measures of blood pressure, height, weight, and fasting samples for cholesterol, triglycerides, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and glucose in the 15-year period 1985-1999. Relations between these variables and risk of death were analyzed using two approaches of multivariate analyses (Cox proportional hazard and GEE models). Patterns of cholesterol levels showed marked differences between men and women in relation to age and cause of death. The role of high cholesterol in predicting death from coronary heart disease could be confirmed in men of all ages and in women under the age of 50. In men, across the entire age range, although of borderline significance under the age of 50, and in women from the age of 50 onward only, low cholesterol was significantly associated with all-cause mortality, showing significant associations with death through cancer, liver diseases, and mental diseases. Triglycerides > 200 mg/dl had an effect in women 65 years and older but not in men. This large-scale population-based study clearly demonstrates the contrasting patterns of cholesterol level in relation to risk, particularly among those less well studied previously, that is, women of all ages and younger people of both sexes. For the first time, we demonstrate that the low cholesterol effect occurs even among younger respondents, contradicting the previous assessments among cohorts of older people that this is a proxy or marker for frailty occurring with age.

Greater Volume but not Higher Density of Abdominal Aortic Calcium Is Associated With Increased Cardiovascular Disease Risk: MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis).

PubMed

Forbang, Nketi I; Michos, Erin D; McClelland, Robyn L; Remigio-Baker, Rosemay A; Allison, Matthew A; Sandfort, Veit; Ix, Joachim H; Thomas, Isac; Rifkin, Dena E; Criqui, Michael H

2016-11-01

Abdominal aortic calcium (AAC) and coronary artery calcium (CAC) independently and similarly predict cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. The standard AAC and CAC score, the Agatston method, upweights for greater calcium density, thereby modeling higher calcium density as a CVD hazard. Computed tomography scans were used to measure AAC and CAC volume and density in a multiethnic cohort of community-dwelling individuals, and Cox proportional hazard was used to determine their independent association with incident coronary heart disease (CHD, defined as myocardial infarction, resuscitated cardiac arrest, or CHD death), cardiovascular disease (CVD, defined as CHD plus stroke and stroke death), and all-cause mortality. In 997 participants with Agatston AAC and CAC scores >0, the mean age was 66±9 years, and 58% were men. During an average follow-up of 9 years, there were 77 CHD, 118 CVD, and 169 all-cause mortality events. In mutually adjusted models, additionally adjusted for CVD risk factors, an increase in ln(AAC volume) per standard deviation was significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality (hazard ratio=1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.08-1.33; P<0.01) and an increased ln(CAC volume) per standard deviation was significantly associated with CHD (hazard ratio=1.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.59; P=0.02) and CVD (hazard ratio=1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-1.36; P<0.01). In contrast, both AAC and CAC density were not significantly associated with CVD events. The Agatston method of upweighting calcium scores for greater density may be inappropriate for CVD risk prediction in both the abdominal aorta and coronary arteries. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Abdominal obesity modifies the risk of hypertriglyceridemia for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in hemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Postorino, Maurizio; Marino, Carmen; Tripepi, Giovanni; Zoccali, Carmine

2011-04-01

Hypertriglyceridemia is the most prevalent lipid alteration in end-stage renal disease, and we studied the relationship between serum triglycerides and all-cause and cardiovascular death in these patients. Since abdominal fat modifies the effect of lipids on atherosclerosis, we analyzed the interaction between serum lipids and waist circumference (WC) as a metric of abdominal obesity. In a cohort of 537 hemodialysis patients, 182 died, 113 from cardiovascular causes, over an average follow-up of 29 months. In Cox models that included traditional and nontraditional risk factors, there were significant strong interactions between triglycerides and WC to both all-cause and cardiovascular death. A fixed (50 mg/dl) excess in triglycerides was associated with a progressive lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with threshold WC <95 cm but with a progressive increased risk in those above this threshold. A significant interaction between cholesterol and WC with all-cause and cardiovascular death emerged only in models excluding the triglycerides-WC interaction. Neither high-density lipoprotein (HDL) nor non-HDL cholesterol or their interaction terms with WC were associated with study outcomes. Thus, the predictive value of triglycerides and cholesterol for survival and atherosclerotic complications in hemodialysis patients is critically dependent on WC. Hence, intervention studies in end-stage renal disease should specifically target patients with abdominal obesity and hyperlipidemia.

Thyroid disease and the cardiovascular system.

PubMed

Danzi, Sara; Klein, Irwin

2014-06-01

Thyroid hormones, specifically triiodothyronine (T3), have significant effects on the heart and cardiovascular system. Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, subclinical thyroid disease, and low T3 syndrome each cause cardiac and cardiovascular abnormalities through both genomic and nongenomic effects on cardiac myocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells. In compromised health, such as occurs in heart disease, alterations in thyroid hormone metabolism may further impair cardiac and cardiovascular function. Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac disease may benefit from including analysis of thyroid hormone status, including serum total T3 levels. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fine and Gray competing risk regression model to study the cause-specific under-five child mortality in Bangladesh.

PubMed

Mohammad, Khandoker Akib; Fatima-Tuz-Zahura, Most; Bari, Wasimul

2017-01-28

The cause-specific under-five mortality of Bangladesh has been studied by fitting cumulative incidence function (CIF) based Fine and Gray competing risk regression model (1999). For the purpose of analysis, Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS), 2011 data set was used. Three types of mode of mortality for the under-five children are considered. These are disease, non-disease and other causes. Product-Limit survival probabilities for the under-five child mortality with log-rank test were used to select a set of covariates for the regression model. The covariates found to have significant association in bivariate analysis were only considered in the regression analysis. Potential determinants of under-five child mortality due to disease is size of child at birth, while gender of child, NGO (non-government organization) membership of mother, mother's education level, and size of child at birth are due to non-disease and age of mother at birth, NGO membership of mother, and mother's education level are for the mortality due to other causes. Female participation in the education programs needs to be increased because of the improvement of child health and government should arrange family and social awareness programs as well as health related programs for women so that they are aware of their child health.

[Analysis in pulmonary ventilatory function from 100 patients with ano-rectal diseases caused by deficiency of qi].

PubMed

Wang, W

1999-03-01

To explore the pathogenesis of ano-rectal diseases caused by deficiency of Qi, which is correlated with obstruction of pulmonary ventilation. The pulmonary ventilatory function was measured in 100 patients with the internal piles, the interno-external hemorrhoid and prolapse of rectum, the prolapse of anus was the principal symptom of them. Data from the 100 patients showed that 67% of them were diagnosed with the obstruction of pulmonary ventilation, the ratio was far less in the health control group. FEV 1.0 (mean +/- s) (2011.65 +/- 875) ml, MMF (1.84 +/- 1.24) L/s and PEF (2.34 +/- 1.51) L/s in male patients, (1551.54 +/- 514) ml, (1.57 +/- 0.62) L/s and (1.85 +/- 0.92) L/s in female patients, but those values were higher in the control than in the patients. The statistical analysis was performed and the difference was significant between patients and the control group (P < 0.01). The patients with ano-rectal diseases caused by deficiency of Qi accompanied with obstruction of pulmonary ventilation in different degree and varied sorts, it confirmed that the pathogenesis of ano-rectal diseases caused by deficiency of Qi is related with "sinking of pectoral Qi".

Antibiotics-related adverse events in the infectious diseases department of a French teaching hospital: a prospective study.

PubMed

Courjon, J; Pulcini, C; Cua, E; Risso, K; Guillouet, F; Bernard, E; Roger, P-M

2013-12-01

Antibiotics are a significant cause of adverse events (AE), but few studies have focused on prescriptions in hospitalized patients. In infectious diseases departments, the high frequency and diversity of antibiotics prescribed makes AE post-marketing monitoring easier. The aim of our study was to assess the incidence and type of AE in the infectious diseases department of a French teaching tertiary-care hospital. The main characteristics of each hospitalization, including all antibiotics prescribed and any significant AE were recorded prospectively in the medical dashboard of the department. We included all patients having suffered an AE due to systemic antibiotics between January 2008 and March 2011. Among the 3963 hospitalized patients, 2682 (68%) received an antibiotic and 151/2682 (5.6%) suffered an AE. Fifty-two (34%) AE were gastrointestinal disorders, 32 (21%) dermatological, 20 (13%) hepatobiliary, 16 (11%) renal and urinary disorders, 13 (9%) neurological and 11 (7%) blood disorders. Rifampin, fosfomycin, cotrimoxazole and linezolid were the leading causes of AE. Sixty-two percent of the antibiotics causing an AE were stopped and 38% were continued (including 11% with a dose modification). Patients suffering from AE had an increased length of stay (18 vs 10 days, P < 0.001). Our data could help choosing the safest antibiotic when several options are possible.

The combined effects of healthy lifestyle behaviors on all-cause mortality: The Golestan Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Malekshah, Akbar Fazel-tabar; Zaroudi, Marsa; Etemadi, Arash; Islami, Farhad; Sepanlou, Sadaf; Sharafkhah, Maryam; Keshtkar, Abbas-Ali; Khademi, Hooman; Poustchi, Hossein; Hekmatdoost, Azita; Pourshams, Akram; Sani, Akbar Feiz; Jafari, Elham; Kamangar, Farin; Dawsey, Sanford M; Abnet, Christian C.; Pharoah, Paul D; Berennan, Paul J; Boffetta, Paolo; Esmaillzadeh, Ahmad; Malekzadeh, Reza

2018-01-01

Background Most studies that have assessed the association between combined lifestyle factors and mortality outcomes have been conducted in populations of developed countries. Objectives The aim of this study was to examine the association between combined lifestyle scores and risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality for the first time among Iranian adults. Methods The study population included 50,045 Iranians, 40–75 years of age, who were enrolled in the Golestan Cohort Study, between 2004 and 2008. The lifestyle risk factors used in this study included cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, and Alternative Healthy Eating Index. The lifestyle score ranged from zero (non-healthy) to 3 (most healthy) points. From the study baseline up to analysis, a total of 4691 mortality cases were recorded. Participants with chronic diseases at baseline, outlier reports of calorie intake, missing data, and body mass index of less than 18.5 were excluded from the analyses. Cox regression models were fitted to establish the association between combined lifestyle scores and mortality outcomes. Results After implementing the exclusion criteria, data from 40,708 participants were included in analyses. During 8.08 years of follow-up, 3,039 cases of death due to all causes were recorded. The adjusted hazard ratio of healthy life style score, compared with non-healthy lifestyle score, was 0.68(95% CI: 0.54, 0.86) for all-cause mortality, 0.53(95% CI: 0.37, 0.77) for cardiovascular mortality, and 0.82(95% CI: 0.53; 1.26) for mortality due to cancer. When we excluded the first two years of follow up from the analysis, the protective association between healthy lifestyle score and cardiovascular death did not change much 0.55 (95% CI: 0.36, 0.84), but the inverse association with all-cause mortality became weaker 0.72 (95% CI: 0.55, 0.94), and the association with cancer mortality was non-significant 0.92 (95% CI: 0.58, 1.48). In the gender-stratified analysis, we found an inverse strong association between adherence to healthy lifestyle and mortality from all causes and cardiovascular disease in either gender, but no significant relationship was seen with mortality from cancer in men or women. Stratified analysis by BMI status revealed an inverse significant association between adherence to healthy lifestyle and mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease and cancer among non-obese participants. Conclusion We found evidence indicating that adherence to healthy lifestyle, compared to non-healthy lifestyle, was associated with decreased risk of all-cause mortality and mortality from cardiovascular diseases in Iranian adults. PMID:27845543

The influence of forest management on vulnerability of forests to severe weather

Treesearch

Robert H. Beach; Erin O. Sills; Tzu-Ming Liu; Subhrendu Pattanayak

2010-01-01

Excessive wind, ice, and snow regularly cause major disturbances to forests in many parts of the world, significantly impacting both ecological conditions and economic returns to forest landowners. These events cause immediate losses for landowners, and the broken and uprooted trees left in the wake of a storm increase the risk that wildfires, disease, and pest...

Application and evaluation of the matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry method to identify Moraxella bovoculi and Moraxella bovis isolates from cattle

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) is an economically significant disease caused by Moraxella bovis. Moraxella bovoculi, although not reported to cause IBK, has been isolated from bovine eyes during IBK outbreaks more frequently then M. bovis. Identification of M. bovis and M. bovoculi ca...

Effect of curtovirus species competitiveness in host plants on transmission and incidence of Beet severe curly top virus and Beet mild curly top virus

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Curly top disease, caused by viruses in the genus Curtovirus, causes significant economic losses for sugarbeet and other crops throughout the western United States. Recent studies demonstrated the two most abundant curtovirus species in the US are Beet severe curly top virus (BSCTV) and Beet mild c...

Memory Loss, Dementia, and Stroke: Implications for Rehabilitation of Older Adults with Age-Related Macular Degeneration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warren, Mary

2008-01-01

Older adults with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are not immune to the other diseases of aging. Although AMD is the leading cause of low vision in older Americans, stroke is the leading cause of disability, and dementias affect another 2.5 million older Americans. Each condition alone can significantly impair a person's ability to…

Laminated root rot damage in a young Douglas-fir stand.

Treesearch

E.E. Nelson

1980-01-01

Damage occurring from the disease laminated root rot {Phellinus weirii (Murr.) Gilbertson) on two 10-acre plots in a young (40-year-old) stand of Douglas-fir was studied for 25 years. After 25 years, nearly 5 percent of the basal area was killed by the disease. Stand damage caused by vegetative spread of the fungus was significantly related to...

Cystic pulmonary hydatidosis

PubMed Central

Sarkar, Malay; Pathania, Rajnish; Jhobta, Anupam; Thakur, Babu Ram; Chopra, Rajesh

2016-01-01

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the larval stages of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus. Worldwide, pulmonary hydatid cyst is a significant problem medically, socially, and economically. Surgery is the definitive therapy of pulmonary hydatidosis. Benzimidazoles may be considered in patients with a surgical contraindication. This review will focus on pathogenesis, lifecycle, clinical features, and management of pulmonary hydatid disease. PMID:27051107

Evaluation of genome-enabled selection for bacterial cold water disease resistance using progeny performance data in Rainbow Trout: Insights on genotyping methods and genomic prediction models

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant economic losses in salmonid aquaculture, and traditional family-based breeding programs aimed at improving BCWD resistance have been limited to exploiting only between-family variation. We used genomic selection (GS) models to predict genomic br...

Validation of linkage between BCWD resistance and spleen size QTL on Omy19 in rainbow trout: Pleiotropy versus linkage

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) is caused by infection with Flavobacterium psychrophilum, and results in significant economic losses in salmonid aquaculture. Previously, we identified a major QTL for BCWD resistance on Omy19 (h2q=0.57-0.67) as well as a QTL for surrogate measures of disease resi...

A story of microalbuminuria and diabetic nephropathy.

PubMed

Roshan, Bijan; Stanton, Robert C

2013-10-01

It is estimated that more than 346 million people worldwide have diabetes mellitus . By the year 2030, it is predicted that diabetes will become the seventh leading cause of death in the world. Development of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with diabetes adds significantly to the morbidity and mortality and significantly increases health care costs, even before the development of end stage renal disease (ESRD). Evidence  acquisitions: Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), Google Scholar, Pubmed (NLM), LISTA (EBSCO) and Web of Science have been searched. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is increasing rapidly worldwide. It is the leading cause of new cases of ESRD in the USA.  Interestingly, although DN is the most common cause of ESRD in diabetic patients, diabetes mellitus is also an independent and strong risk factor for ESRD ascribed to causes other than DN (e.g. hypertensive nephropathy). It is important to be aware of the pitfalls of using the urine albumin level in predicting development and progression of diabetic nephropathy in order to treat and advise the patients accurately.  Research into finding new markers is rapidly evolving but current progress makes it likely we will be using the urine albumin level for some years into the future.

Dystrophic heart failure blocked by membrane sealant poloxamer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yasuda, Soichiro; Townsend, Dewayne; Michele, Daniel E.; Favre, Elizabeth G.; Day, Sharlene M.; Metzger, Joseph M.

2005-08-01

Dystrophin deficiency causes Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in humans, an inherited and progressive disease of striated muscle deterioration that frequently involves pronounced cardiomyopathy. Heart failure is the second leading cause of fatalities in DMD. Progress towards defining the molecular basis of disease in DMD has mostly come from studies on skeletal muscle, with comparatively little attention directed to cardiac muscle. The pathophysiological mechanisms involved in cardiac myocytes may differ significantly from skeletal myofibres; this is underscored by the presence of significant cardiac disease in patients with truncated or reduced levels of dystrophin but without skeletal muscle disease. Here we show that intact, isolated dystrophin-deficient cardiac myocytes have reduced compliance and increased susceptibility to stretch-mediated calcium overload, leading to cell contracture and death, and that application of the membrane sealant poloxamer 188 corrects these defects in vitro. In vivo administration of poloxamer 188 to dystrophic mice instantly improved ventricular geometry and blocked the development of acute cardiac failure during a dobutamine-mediated stress protocol. Once issues relating to optimal dosing and long-term effects of poloxamer 188 in humans have been resolved, chemical-based membrane sealants could represent a new therapeutic approach for preventing or reversing the progression of cardiomyopathy and heart failure in muscular dystrophy.

Dietary sugar and artificial sweetener intake and chronic kidney disease: a review.

PubMed

Karalius, Vytas P; Shoham, David A

2013-03-01

Sugar consumption, especially in the form of fructose, has been hypothesized to cause kidney disease. This review provides an overview of the epidemiologic evidence that sugar consumption increases CKD risk. Research supports a causal role of sugar in several kidney disease risk factors, including increasing serum uric acid levels, diabetes, and obesity. Sugar may also harm the kidney via other mechanisms. There is no evidence that sucrose is any safer for the kidney than high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) because both are similar in composition. To date, 5 epidemiologic studies have directly evaluated the relationship between sugar consumption (in the form of sugar-sweetened beverages) and CKD. Although most studies suggest that the risk of CKD is elevated among consumers of sugar-sweetened beverages, only 2 studies report statistically significant associations. Three studies have also examined diet soda consumption, with two reporting positive and significant associations. Confounding by unmeasured lifestyle factors may play a role in the positive results whereas poor measurement of sugar and artificial sweetener intake could explain null results. Nevertheless, the hypothesis that sugar causes kidney disease remains plausible, and alternative research designs may be needed. Copyright © 2013 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Genetic testing in steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome: why, who, when and how?

PubMed

Preston, Rebecca; Stuart, Helen M; Lennon, Rachel

2017-11-27

Steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) is a common cause of chronic kidney disease in childhood and has a significant risk of rapid progression to end-stage renal disease. The identification of over 50 monogenic causes of SRNS has revealed dysfunction in podocyte-associated proteins in the pathogenesis of proteinuria, highlighting their essential role in glomerular function. Recent technological advances in high-throughput sequencing have enabled indication-driven genetic panel testing for patients with SRNS. The availability of genetic testing, combined with the significant phenotypic variability of monogenic SRNS, poses unique challenges for clinicians when directing genetic testing. This highlights the need for clear clinical guidelines that provide a systematic approach for mutational screening in SRNS. The likelihood of identifying a causative mutation is inversely related to age at disease onset and is increased with a positive family history or the presence of extra-renal manifestations. An unequivocal molecular diagnosis could allow for a personalised treatment approach with weaning of immunosuppressive therapy, avoidance of renal biopsy and provision of accurate, well-informed genetic counselling. Identification of novel causative mutations will continue to unravel the pathogenic mechanisms of glomerular disease and provide new insights into podocyte biology and glomerular function.

regSNPs-splicing: a tool for prioritizing synonymous single-nucleotide substitution.

PubMed

Zhang, Xinjun; Li, Meng; Lin, Hai; Rao, Xi; Feng, Weixing; Yang, Yuedong; Mort, Matthew; Cooper, David N; Wang, Yue; Wang, Yadong; Wells, Clark; Zhou, Yaoqi; Liu, Yunlong

2017-09-01

While synonymous single-nucleotide variants (sSNVs) have largely been unstudied, since they do not alter protein sequence, mounting evidence suggests that they may affect RNA conformation, splicing, and the stability of nascent-mRNAs to promote various diseases. Accurately prioritizing deleterious sSNVs from a pool of neutral ones can significantly improve our ability of selecting functional genetic variants identified from various genome-sequencing projects, and, therefore, advance our understanding of disease etiology. In this study, we develop a computational algorithm to prioritize sSNVs based on their impact on mRNA splicing and protein function. In addition to genomic features that potentially affect splicing regulation, our proposed algorithm also includes dozens structural features that characterize the functions of alternatively spliced exons on protein function. Our systematical evaluation on thousands of sSNVs suggests that several structural features, including intrinsic disorder protein scores, solvent accessible surface areas, protein secondary structures, and known and predicted protein family domains, show significant differences between disease-causing and neutral sSNVs. Our result suggests that the protein structure features offer an added dimension of information while distinguishing disease-causing and neutral synonymous variants. The inclusion of structural features increases the predictive accuracy for functional sSNV prioritization.

Updates in the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Frenette, Catherine

2011-01-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death, and its increasing incidence worldwide is a cause for concern. Fortunately, advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches have contributed to earlier detection and treatment. As cancer epidemiology studies continue to elucidate the natural history of liver diseases, greater understanding of HCC has led to improved risk stratification and earlier enrollment of high-risk patients in cancer screening and surveillance programs. Improved survival rates among HCC patients also reflect significant advances in available treatment options. Advances in surgical techniques are pushing the boundaries of resection for localized disease, and progress in the field of transplantation has led to refinements in listing criteria and improved post-transplantation outcomes. The evolving field of locoregional therapies—including percutaneous ablation and transarterial chemoembolization—continues to provide novel therapeutic options that can be used in place of, or in addition to, surgical approaches. Recent advances in systemic multikinase inhibitor therapies have also demonstrated significant benefits for advanced-stage disease, and these therapies also show promise as adjuvant treatments for earlier-stage disease. This article provides an update on the management of HCC, with a focus on revised guidelines for screening and an in-depth discussion of emerging novel therapies. PMID:21346848

The etiology of Balkan endemic nephropathy: still more questions than answers.

PubMed Central

Tatu, C A; Orem, W H; Finkelman, R B; Feder, G L

1998-01-01

Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) has attracted increasing attention as a possible environmental disease, and a significant amount of research from complementary scientific fields has been dedicated to its etiology. There are two actual competing theories attempting to explain the cause of this kidney disease: 1) the mycotoxin hypothesis, which considers that BEN is produced by ochratoxin A ingested intermittently in small amounts by the individuals in the endemic regions, and 2) the Pliocene lignite hypothesis, which proposes that the disease is caused by long-term exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and other toxic organic compounds leaching into the well drinking water from low rank coals underlying or proximal to the endemic settlements. We outline the current developments and future prospects in the study of BEN and differentiate possible factors and cofactors in disease etiology. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 PMID:9799184

Toward a Systems Approach to Enteric Pathogen Transmission: From Individual Independence to Community Interdependence

PubMed Central

Eisenberg, Joseph N.S.; Trostle, James; Sorensen, Reed J.D.; Shields, Katherine F.

2012-01-01

Diarrheal disease is still a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide; thus a large body of research has been produced describing its risks. We review more than four decades of literature on diarrheal disease epidemiology. These studies detail a progression in the conceptual understanding of transmission of enteric pathogens and demonstrate that diarrheal disease is caused by many interdependent pathways. However, arguments by diarrheal disease researchers in favor of attending to interaction and interdependencies have only recently yielded more formal systems-level approaches. Therefore, interdependence has not yet been highlighted in significant new research initiatives or policy decisions. We argue for a systems-level framework that will contextualize transmission and inform prevention and control efforts so that they can integrate transmission pathways. These systems approaches should be employed to account for community effects (i.e., interactions among individuals and/or households). PMID:22224881

Parenchymal and airway diseases caused by asbestos.

PubMed

Antonescu-Turcu, Andreea L; Schapira, Ralph M

2010-03-01

The extensive industrial use of asbestos for many decades has been linked to development of benign and malignant pleuropulmonary disease. This review summarizes newer evidence and ongoing controversies that exist in the literature regarding asbestos-related parenchymal and airway diseases. Asbestosis represents a significant respiratory problem despite the improvement in the workplace hygiene and a decrease in use of asbestos. The management of asbestosis remains challenging as currently there is no specific treatment. The role of asbestos exposure alone as a cause of chronic airway obstruction remains uncertain. The relationship between lung cancer and asbestos exposure alone and in combination with smoking has also been investigated. The benefit of screening for asbestos-related pleuropulmonary disease remains uncertain as does the use of computed tomography scanning for the purpose of screening. Future studies will help clarify the clinical issues and shape screening strategies for asbestos-exposed individuals.

[Fungal diseases of vulva and vagina caused by Candida species].

PubMed

Stock, Ingo

2010-09-01

Fungal diseases of vulva and vagina attributed to Candida species (vulvovaginal candidosis) are the most frequent mycoses of women. They show acute or chronic courses and different disease patterns which can strongly affect the quality of life of the women who are concerned. In general, the most common cause of acute vulvovaginal candidosis is Candida albicans, followed by C. glabrata. In chronic recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis, C. albicans and C. glabrata are often equally distributed. In several cases, treatment requires an antimycotic therapy which refers to the severity and main form of disease as well as to the aetiological agent. Most vulvovaginal candidoses are accessible to the treatment with local and systemic antimycotic agents. Generally, in Germany azoles such as clotrimazole, fluconazole and itraconazole, the polyens nystatin and Amphotericin B and the hydroxypyridone derivative ciclopirox are available for antimycotic therapy of vulvovaginal candidoses. Significance of non-conventional and adjuvant therapeutic approaches is considered to be generally low.

Echocardiography-based spectrum of severe tricuspid regurgitation: the frequency of apparently idiopathic tricuspid regurgitation.

PubMed

Mutlak, Diab; Lessick, Jonathan; Reisner, Shimon A; Aronson, Doron; Dabbah, Salim; Agmon, Yoram

2007-04-01

The cause of tricuspid valve (TV) regurgitation (TR) occasionally remains unclear. The objectives of our study were to define the causal spectrum of severe TR diagnosed by echocardiography at a tertiary medical center and to assess the relative frequency and determine the clinical and echocardiographic characteristics of TR without an apparent cause (idiopathic TR). Consecutive patients with severe TR were identified by the echocardiography laboratory computerized database. The echocardiographic reports of all patients were reviewed and the causes of TR were determined. The echocardiographic studies and medical charts were reviewed in patients without an obvious cause of TR. Of 242 consecutive patients diagnosed with severe TR, organic TV disease was evident in 23 patients (9.5%) and significant pulmonary hypertension (estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure > 50 mm Hg) in an additional 157 patients (64.9%). After further excluding patients with various confounding factors, possibly associated with occult organic TV disease or significant pulmonary hypertension, 23 patients (9.5%) had severe TR without an apparent cause. Of these, TV coaptation appeared relatively intact, allowing adequate estimation of pulmonary artery pressure, in 15 patients (6.2% of all patients with severe TR; idiopathic TR group). Patients with idiopathic TR were older (76 +/- 10 years), with a high frequency of atrial fibrillation (93%), and prominent TV annular dilatation. After excluding multiple potential causes of TR, severe TR is occasionally idiopathic. Annular dilatation (secondary to aging, atrial fibrillation, or other causes) is the likely mechanism of TR in these patients.

Heart Failure in Sub-Saharan Africa

PubMed Central

Bloomfield, Gerald S; Barasa, Felix A; Doll, Jacob A; Velazquez, Eric J

2013-01-01

The heart failure syndrome has been recognized as a significant contributor to cardiovascular disease burden in sub-Saharan African for many decades. Seminal knowledge regarding heart failure in the region came from case reports and case series of the early 20th century which identified infectious, nutritional and idiopathic causes as the most common. With increasing urbanization, changes in lifestyle habits, and ageing of the population, the spectrum of causes of HF has also expanded resulting in a significant burden of both communicable and non-communicable etiologies. Heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa is notable for the range of etiologies that concurrently exist as well as the healthcare environment marked by limited resources, weak national healthcare systems and a paucity of national level data on disease trends. With the recent publication of the first and largest multinational prospective registry of acute heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa, it is timely to review the state of knowledge to date and describe the myriad forms of heart failure in the region. This review discusses several forms of heart failure that are common in sub-Saharan Africa (e.g., rheumatic heart disease, hypertensive heart disease, pericardial disease, various dilated cardiomyopathies, HIV cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, endomyocardial fibrosis, ischemic heart disease, cor pulmonale) and presents each form with regard to epidemiology, natural history, clinical characteristics, diagnostic considerations and therapies. Areas and approaches to fill the remaining gaps in knowledge are also offered herein highlighting the need for research that is driven by regional disease burden and needs. PMID:23597299

Effects of aspirin-triggered resolvin D1 on peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with Chagas' heart disease.

PubMed

Ogata, Haline; Teixeira, Maxelle Martins; Sousa, Rodrigo Cunha de; Silva, Marcos Vinícius da; Correia, Dalmo; Rodrigues Junior, Virmondes; Levy, Bruce David; Rogério, Alexandre de Paula

2016-04-15

Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). In some patients with Chagas disease, symptoms progress to chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy. Endogenously, inflammation is resolved in the presence of lipid mediators such as aspirin-triggered RvD1 (AT-RvD1) which has anti-inflammatory and pro-resolution effects. Here, we demonstrated, for the first time, the effects of AT-RvD1 on T. cruzi antigen-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with Chagas heart disease. The levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-13 increased in PBMCs from cardiac-form Chagas patients in stage B1 (patients with fewer heart abnormalities) stimulated with T. cruzi antigen compared to those in non-stimulated PBMCs. AT-RvD1 reduced the IFN-γ concentrations in PBMCs from patients with Chagas disease stimulated with T. cruzi antigen compared to stimulated with T. cruzi antigen cells. AT-RvD1 treatment resulted in no observable changes in TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-13 levels. AT-RvD1 significantly decreased the percentage of necrotic cells and caused a significant reduction in the proliferation rate of T. cruzi antigen-stimulated PBMCs from patients with Chagas disease. These findings demonstrate that AT-RvD1 modulates the immune response in Chagas disease patients and might have potential to be used as an alternative approach for slowing the development of further heart damage. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Trade-off between cancer and aging: What role do other diseases play? Evidence from experimental and human population studies

PubMed Central

Yashin, Anatoli I.; Ukraintseva, Svetlana V.; Akushevich, Igor V.; Arbeev, Konstantin G.; Kulminski, Alexander; Akushevich, Lucy

2009-01-01

The potential gain in life expectancy which could result from the complete elimination of mortality from cancer in the U.S. would not exceed 3 years if one were to consider cancer independently of other causes of death. In this paper, we review evidence of trade-offs between cancer and aging as well as between cancer and other diseases, which, if taken into account, may substantially increase estimates of gain in life expectancy resulting from cancer eradication. We also used the Multiple Causes of Death (MCD) data to evaluate correlations among mortalities from cancer and other major disorders including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s diseases, and asthma. Our analyses revealed significant negative correlations between cancer and other diseases suggesting stronger population effects of cancer eradication. Possible mechanisms of the observed dependencies and emerging perspectives of using dependent competing risks models for evaluating the effects of reduction of mortality from cancer on life expectancy are discussed. PMID:18452970

Cognitive control related network analysis: A novel way to measure neuron fiber connection of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Changle Zhang; Tao Chai; Na Gao; Ma, Heather T

2017-07-01

Effective measurement of cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer's disease (AD) will provide a chance for early medical intervention and delay the disease onset. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) provides a non-intrusive examination of cranial nerve diseases which can help us observe the microstructure of neuron fibers. Cognitive control network (CCN) consists of the brain regions that highly related to human self-control. In this study, hub-and-spoke model which was widely used in transportation and sociology area had been employed to analyze the relationship of CCN and other regions under its control, cognitive control related network (CCRN) was built by applying this model. Local and global graph theoretical parameters were calculated and went through statistical analysis. Significant difference had been found in the scale of local as well as global which may represent the impairment of cognitive control ability. This result may provide a potential bio-marker for the loss of connection caused by Alzheimer's disease.

Is bronchoscopy an obsolete tool in cystic fibrosis? The role of bronchoscopy in cystic fibrosis and its clinical use

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive life threatening multisystem genetic disease which affects the CF transmembrane conductance regulator channel. Respiratory causes remain the most common mortality in CF. With the onset of newborn screening, initiating treatments both for prophylaxis and disease management, optimizing nutritional support, and developing therapies targeting CF transmembrane conductance regulator protein, this has significantly changed the face of managing this devastating disease. Bronchoscopy and related procedures such as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), transbronchial biopsies, and protected brush sampling have been looked at in the management of CF as patients with CF continue to live longer with the help of newer therapies, the microbiome in the lung becomes less diverse along with increased occurrences for noninfectious causes of airway diseases. Though bronchoscopy has been used in conjunction with other modalities such as computed tomography and sputum induction providing a better understanding of the progression of the disease, it still remains valuable in the diagnosis and management of CF. PMID:29214071

A Lethal Disease Model for Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome in Immunosuppressed Syrian Hamsters Infected with Sin Nombre Virus

PubMed Central

Brocato, Rebecca L.; Hammerbeck, Christopher D.; Bell, Todd M.; Wells, Jay B.; Queen, Laurie A.

2014-01-01

Sin Nombre virus (SNV) is a rodent-borne hantavirus that causes hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) predominantly in North America. SNV infection of immunocompetent hamsters results in an asymptomatic infection; the only lethal disease model for a pathogenic hantavirus is Andes virus (ANDV) infection of Syrian hamsters. Efforts to create a lethal SNV disease model in hamsters by repeatedly passaging virus through the hamster have demonstrated increased dissemination of the virus but no signs of disease. In this study, we demonstrate that immunosuppression of hamsters through the administration of a combination of dexamethasone and cyclophosphamide, followed by infection with SNV, results in a vascular leak syndrome that accurately mimics both HPS disease in humans and ANDV infection of hamsters. Immunosuppressed hamsters infected with SNV have a mean number of days to death of 13 and display clinical signs associated with HPS, including pulmonary edema. Viral antigen was widely detectable throughout the pulmonary endothelium. Histologic analysis of lung sections showed marked inflammation and edema within the alveolar septa of SNV-infected hamsters, results which are similar to what is exhibited by hamsters infected with ANDV. Importantly, SNV-specific neutralizing polyclonal antibody administered 5 days after SNV infection conferred significant protection against disease. This experiment not only demonstrated that the disease was caused by SNV, it also demonstrated the utility of this animal model for testing candidate medical countermeasures. This is the first report of lethal disease caused by SNV in an adult small-animal model. PMID:24198421

A lethal disease model for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in immunosuppressed Syrian hamsters infected with Sin Nombre virus.

PubMed

Brocato, Rebecca L; Hammerbeck, Christopher D; Bell, Todd M; Wells, Jay B; Queen, Laurie A; Hooper, Jay W

2014-01-01

Sin Nombre virus (SNV) is a rodent-borne hantavirus that causes hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) predominantly in North America. SNV infection of immunocompetent hamsters results in an asymptomatic infection; the only lethal disease model for a pathogenic hantavirus is Andes virus (ANDV) infection of Syrian hamsters. Efforts to create a lethal SNV disease model in hamsters by repeatedly passaging virus through the hamster have demonstrated increased dissemination of the virus but no signs of disease. In this study, we demonstrate that immunosuppression of hamsters through the administration of a combination of dexamethasone and cyclophosphamide, followed by infection with SNV, results in a vascular leak syndrome that accurately mimics both HPS disease in humans and ANDV infection of hamsters. Immunosuppressed hamsters infected with SNV have a mean number of days to death of 13 and display clinical signs associated with HPS, including pulmonary edema. Viral antigen was widely detectable throughout the pulmonary endothelium. Histologic analysis of lung sections showed marked inflammation and edema within the alveolar septa of SNV-infected hamsters, results which are similar to what is exhibited by hamsters infected with ANDV. Importantly, SNV-specific neutralizing polyclonal antibody administered 5 days after SNV infection conferred significant protection against disease. This experiment not only demonstrated that the disease was caused by SNV, it also demonstrated the utility of this animal model for testing candidate medical countermeasures. This is the first report of lethal disease caused by SNV in an adult small-animal model.

Mortality and cancer morbidity in workers exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride monomer at a polyvinyl chloride processing plant

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hagmar, L.; Akesson, B.; Nielsen, J.

1990-01-01

To study whether exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) causes increased risk for cancer morbidity and death from ischemic heart disease, a cohort study was performed among 2,031 male workers at a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) processing plant who had been employed for at least 3 months during the period 1945-1980. An almost significantly increased total mortality (SMR = 116, 95% CI 99-136) was found. Deaths caused by violence or intoxication were significantly increased (SMR = 153, 95% CI 109-213), but not deaths from ischemic heart disease (SMR = 100, 95% CI 73-135). A significant increase in totalmore » cancer morbidity was observed (SMR = 128, 95% CI 101-161). Respiratory cancers were significantly increased (SMR = 213, 95% CI 127-346). Furthermore, six brain tumors (vs. 2.6 expected) were observed. This increase, however, was not significant (SMR = 229, 95% CI 84-498). No liver hemangiosarcoma was observed. Applying a latency period of greater than or equal to 10 years from start of employment did not change the risk patterns. There were no significant exposure-response associations between exposure estimates for VCM, asbestos, and plasticizers and cancer morbidity.« less

Ventricular Diastolic Function in Normal Fetuses and Fetuses with Hb Bart's Disease Assessed by Color M-Mode Propagation Velocity using Cardio-STIC-M (Spatio-Temporal Image Correlation M-Mode).

PubMed

Tongsong, T; Tongprasert, F; Srisupundit, K; Luewan, S; Traisrisilp, K

2016-10-01

Purpose: To determine whether ventricular diastolic dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of fetal cardiac failure due to fetal anemia using fetal Hb Bart's disease as a live model and cardio-STIC-M as a diagnostic tool. Materials and Methods: Color cardio-STIC volume datasets were acquired from fetuses at risk for Hb Bart's disease during 18 - 22 weeks of gestation and normal pregnancies and pregnancies with hydrops fetalis caused by Hb Bart's disease at 28 - 32 weeks. The volumes were analyzed off-line for velocity propagation (Vp) of the right and left ventricles to assess ventricular diastolic function using color cardio-STIC-M. Results: The Vp for the right and left ventricles was studied in fetuses at 18 - 22 weeks, including 64 normal fetuses (group 1) and 22 fetuses with Hb Bart's disease (group 2), and in fetuses at 28 - 32 weeks, including 22 normal fetuses (group 3) and 16 fetuses with Hb Bart's hydrops fetalis (group 4). The Vp of the fetuses in group 1 and group 2 was not significantly different. However, the Vp for the right and left ventricles in group 4 was significantly lower than in group 3 (19.02 vs. 9.78, p < 0.001; and 20.24 vs. 13.40, p < 0.001, respectively). The inter-observer variability had fair agreement with the intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.531 (95 % CI 0.393 - 0.646, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Hydrops fetalis secondary to fetal anemia is initially caused by hypervolemia rather than ventricular diastolic dysfunction while ventricular diastolic compromise is a late occurring consequence of persistent hypervolemia, different from the mechanism of hydropic changes caused by cardiac causes. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Application of a high-throughput genotyping method for loci exclusion in non-consanguineous Australian pedigrees with autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa

PubMed Central

Paterson, Rachel L.; McLaren, Terri L.; Hewitt, Alex W.; Hoffmann, Ling; Lamey, Tina M.

2012-01-01

Purpose Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common form of inherited blindness, caused by progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina, and affects approximately 1 in 3,000 people. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in gene therapy for RP and related diseases, making genetic characterization increasingly important. Recently, high-throughput technologies have provided an option for reasonably fast, cost-effective genetic characterization of autosomal recessive RP (arRP). The current study used a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping method to exclude up to 28 possible disease-causing genes in 31 non-consanguineous Australian families affected by arRP. Methods DNA samples were collected from 59 individuals affected with arRP and 74 unaffected family members from 31 Australian families. Five to six SNPs were genotyped for 28 genes known to cause arRP or the related disease Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). Cosegregation analyses were used to exclude possible causative genes from each of the 31 families. Bidirectional sequencing was used to identify disease-causing mutations in prioritized genes that were not excluded with cosegregation analyses. Results Two families were excluded from analysis due to identification of false paternity. An average of 28.9% of genes were excluded per family when only one affected individual was available, in contrast to an average of 71.4% or 89.8% of genes when either two, or three or more affected individuals were analyzed, respectively. A statistically significant relationship between the proportion of genes excluded and the number of affected individuals analyzed was identified using a multivariate regression model (p<0.0001). Subsequent DNA sequencing resulted in identification of the likely disease-causing gene as CRB1 in one family (c.2548 G>A) and USH2A in two families (c.2276 G>T). Conclusions This study has shown that SNP genotyping cosegregation analysis can be successfully used to refine and expedite the genetic characterization of arRP in a non-consanguineous population; however, this method is effective only when DNA samples are available from more than one affected individual. PMID:22876132

Application of a high-throughput genotyping method for loci exclusion in non-consanguineous Australian pedigrees with autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa.

PubMed

Paterson, Rachel L; De Roach, John N; McLaren, Terri L; Hewitt, Alex W; Hoffmann, Ling; Lamey, Tina M

2012-01-01

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common form of inherited blindness, caused by progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina, and affects approximately 1 in 3,000 people. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in gene therapy for RP and related diseases, making genetic characterization increasingly important. Recently, high-throughput technologies have provided an option for reasonably fast, cost-effective genetic characterization of autosomal recessive RP (arRP). The current study used a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping method to exclude up to 28 possible disease-causing genes in 31 non-consanguineous Australian families affected by arRP. DNA samples were collected from 59 individuals affected with arRP and 74 unaffected family members from 31 Australian families. Five to six SNPs were genotyped for 28 genes known to cause arRP or the related disease Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). Cosegregation analyses were used to exclude possible causative genes from each of the 31 families. Bidirectional sequencing was used to identify disease-causing mutations in prioritized genes that were not excluded with cosegregation analyses. Two families were excluded from analysis due to identification of false paternity. An average of 28.9% of genes were excluded per family when only one affected individual was available, in contrast to an average of 71.4% or 89.8% of genes when either two, or three or more affected individuals were analyzed, respectively. A statistically significant relationship between the proportion of genes excluded and the number of affected individuals analyzed was identified using a multivariate regression model (p<0.0001). Subsequent DNA sequencing resulted in identification of the likely disease-causing gene as CRB1 in one family (c.2548 G>A) and USH2A in two families (c.2276 G>T). This study has shown that SNP genotyping cosegregation analysis can be successfully used to refine and expedite the genetic characterization of arRP in a non-consanguineous population; however, this method is effective only when DNA samples are available from more than one affected individual.

Cardiac Channelopathies and Sudden Death: Recent Clinical and Genetic Advances.

PubMed

Fernández-Falgueras, Anna; Sarquella-Brugada, Georgia; Brugada, Josep; Brugada, Ramon; Campuzano, Oscar

2017-01-29

Sudden cardiac death poses a unique challenge to clinicians because it may be the only symptom of an inherited heart condition. Indeed, inherited heart diseases can cause sudden cardiac death in older and younger individuals. Two groups of familial diseases are responsible for sudden cardiac death: cardiomyopathies (mainly hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy) and channelopathies (mainly long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, short QT syndrome, and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia). This review focuses on cardiac channelopathies, which are characterized by lethal arrhythmias in the structurally normal heart, incomplete penetrance, and variable expressivity. Arrhythmias in these diseases result from pathogenic variants in genes encoding cardiac ion channels or associated proteins. Due to a lack of gross structural changes in the heart, channelopathies are often considered as potential causes of death in otherwise unexplained forensic autopsies. The asymptomatic nature of channelopathies is cause for concern in family members who may be carrying genetic risk factors, making the identification of these genetic factors of significant clinical importance.

Infections in solid-organ transplant recipients.

PubMed Central

Patel, R; Paya, C V

1997-01-01

Solid-organ transplantation is a therapeutic option for many human diseases. Infections are a major complication of solid-organ transplantation. All candidates should undergo a thorough infectious-disease screening prior to transplantation. There are three time frames, influenced by surgical factors, the level of immunosuppression, and environmental exposures, during which infections of specific types most frequently occur posttransplantation. Most infections during the first month are related to surgical complications. Opportunistic infections typically occur from the second to the sixth month. During the late posttransplant period (beyond 6 months), transplantation recipients suffer from the same infections seen in the general community. Opportunistic bacterial infections seen in transplant recipients include those caused by Legionella spp., Nocardia spp., Salmonella spp., and Listeria monocytogenes. Cytomegalovirus is the most common cause of viral infections. Herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, Epstein-Barr virus and others are also significant pathogens. Fungal infections, caused by both yeasts and mycelial fungi, are associated with the highest mortality rates. Mycobacterial, pneumocystis, and parasitic diseases may also occur. PMID:8993860

Occupational obstructive airway diseases in Germany: Frequency and causes in an international comparison

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Latza, U.; Baur, X.

2005-08-01

Occupational inhalative exposures contribute to a significant proportion of obstructive airway diseases (OAD), namely chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The number of occupational OAD in the German industrial sector for the year 2003 are presented. Other analyses of surveillance data were retrieved from Medline. Most confirmed reports of OAD are cases of sensitizer induced occupational asthma (625 confirmed cases) followed by COPD in coal miners (414 cases), irritant induced occupational asthma (156 cases), and isocyanate asthma (54 cases). Main causes of occupational asthma in Germany comprise flour/flour constituents (35.9%), food/feed dust (9.0%), and isocyanates (6.5%). Flour and grainmore » dust is a frequent cause of occupational asthma in most European countries and South Africa. Isocyanates are still a problem worldwide. Although wide differences in the estimated incidences between countries exist due to deficits in the coverage of occupational OAD, the high numbers necessitate improvement of preventive measures.« less

Antibacterial Activity of Cinnamaldehyde and Estragole Extracted from Plant Essential Oils against Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae Causing Bacterial Canker Disease in Kiwifruit

PubMed Central

Song, Yu-Rim; Choi, Min-Seon; Choi, Geun-Won; Park, Il-Kwon; Oh, Chang-Sik

2016-01-01

Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) causes bacterial canker disease in kiwifruit. Antibacterial activity of plant essential oils (PEOs) originating from 49 plant species were tested against Psa by a vapor diffusion and a liquid culture assays. The five PEOs from Pimenta racemosa, P. dioica, Melaleuca linariifolia, M. cajuputii, and Cinnamomum cassia efficiently inhibited Psa growth by either assays. Among their major components, estragole, eugenol, and methyl eugenol showed significant antibacterial activity by only the liquid culture assay, while cinnamaldehyde exhibited antibacterial activity by both assays. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of estragole and cinnamaldehyde by the liquid culture assay were 1,250 and 2,500 ppm, respectively. The MIC of cinnamaldehyde by the vapor diffusion assay was 5,000 ppm. Based on the formation of clear zones or the decrease of optical density caused by these compounds, they might kill the bacterial cells and this feature might be useful for managing the bacterial canker disease in kiwifruit. PMID:27493612

Epidemiology of criniviruses: an emerging problem in world agriculture

PubMed Central

Tzanetakis, Ioannis E.; Martin, Robert R.; Wintermantel, William M.

2013-01-01

The genus Crinivirus includes the whitefly-transmitted members of the family Closteroviridae. Whitefly-transmitted viruses have emerged as a major problem for world agriculture and are responsible for diseases that lead to losses measured in the billions of dollars annually. Criniviruses emerged as a major agricultural threat at the end of the twentieth century with the establishment and naturalization of their whitefly vectors, members of the genera Trialeurodes and Bemisia, in temperate climates around the globe. Several criniviruses cause significant diseases in single infections whereas others remain asymptomatic and only cause disease when found in mixed infections with other viruses. Characterization of the majority of criniviruses has been done in the last 20 years and this article provides a detailed review on the epidemiology of this important group of viruses. PMID:23730300

[Bacterial meningitis].

PubMed

Brouwer, M C; van de Beek, D

2012-05-01

Bacterial meningitis is a severe disease which affects 35.000 Europeans each year and has a mortality rate of about 20%. During the past 25 years the epidemiology of bacterial meningitis has changed significantly due to the implementation of vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningtidis group C and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Due to these vaccines, meningitis is now predominantly a disease occurring in adults, caused especially by Streptococcus pneumoniae, while it was formerly a child disease which was largely caused by Haemophilus influenzae. Bacterial meningitis is often difficult to recognize since the classical presentation with neck stiffness, reduced awareness and fever occurs in less than half of the patients. The only way to diagnose or exclude bacterial meningitis is by performing low-threshold cerebrospinal fluid examination with a suspicion of bacterial meningitis. The treatment consists of the prescription of antibiotics and dexamethasone.

Surgical treatment of Peyronie's disease.

PubMed

Carson, Culley C

2006-02-01

Peyronie's disease is a sexually debilitating disease causing significant penile deformity and erectile dysfunction as well as psychological stress for many men. The incidence of Peyronie's disease appears to be increasing and urologists are being called upon more frequently to treat this debilitating condition. Urologists have an opportunity to help men suffering from Peyronie's disease to improve their lives and the lives of their partners. Appropriate treatment should be individualized and tailored to the patient's expectations, disease history, physical exam findings, and coital function. After medical therapy is considered and the Peyronie's disease has stabilized, surgical correction is an excellent option for patients with functional impairment from their Peyronie's disease. Surgical outcomes are excellent with expected return to normal sexual function following Peyronie's disease treatment.

One or two ligatures inducing periodontitis are sufficient to cause fatty liver

PubMed Central

Pessoa, Larissa-dos Santos; Pereira-da Silva, Felipe-Rodolfo; Alves, Even-Herlany-Pereira; França, Luiz-Felipe-de Carvalho; di Lenardo, David; Carvalho, Joaquina-dos Santos; Martins, Victor-Brito-Dantas; Sousa, Francisca-Beatriz-de Melo; Drumond, Karina-Oliveira; Medeiros, Jand-Venes-Rolim; de Oliveira, Jefferson-Soares

2018-01-01

Background Periodontitis is a chronic disease that due to an intense inflammatory response triggers systemic changes such as hepatic alterations. This study aimed to compare hepatic damage in rats that received experimental periodontitis at one or two periodontal sites with ligatures. Material and Methods Eighteen rats were separated into three groups: control, without ligature; periodontitis 1, with one ligature; and periodontitis 2, with two ligatures. The following parameters were assessed: gingival bleeding index, probing pocket depth, tooth mobility, alveolar bone loss, malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in periodontal tissue; histopathological evaluation of hepatic tissue (steatosis score); glutathione levels (GSH), MDA, MPO, cholesterol and triglycerides in the liver; and serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Results Periodontal evaluation data showed that the periodontitis model worked well. The groups with periodontitis did not differ significantly in relation to MPO activity and MDA levels in the gingival samples, but they were significantly different when compared with the control group. Steatosis was observed in the histological analysis of the groups with periodontitis, but between the periodontitis groups, two ligatures did not cause increase in steatosis score. The levels of GSH, MDA, total cholesterol and triglycerides in the hepatic tissue were not altered between groups with periodontitis, but they showed significant differences in comparison with the control group. The activity of MPO in hepatic tissue and serum levels of AST and ALT did not present significant difference among the three groups. Conclusions In conclusion, our results demonstrated that one or two ligatures inducing periodontitis were both sufficient to cause fatty liver. Steatosis caused by two ligatures did not present larger extension and severity than steatosis caused by one ligature. Key words:Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory agents, experimental design, periodontal disease, periodontal medicine. PMID:29680842

Very Long-Term (10 to 14 Year) Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Versus Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease in the Bare-Metal Stent Era.

PubMed

Shiomi, Hiroki; Yamaji, Kyohei; Morimoto, Takeshi; Shizuta, Satoshi; Nakatsuma, Kenji; Higami, Hirooki; Furukawa, Yutaka; Nakagawa, Yoshihisa; Kadota, Kazushige; Ando, Kenji; Sakata, Ryuzo; Okabayashi, Hitoshi; Hanyu, Michiya; Shimamoto, Mitsuomi; Nishiwaki, Noboru; Komiya, Tatsuhiko; Kimura, Takeshi

2016-08-01

Many of the previous randomized trials comparing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with multivessel coronary artery disease reported equivalent or better survival with CABG as compared with PCI at 5-year follow-up. However, 5-year follow-up might be too short to evaluate the true differences in long-term clinical outcomes between PCI and CABG. Among 8934 patients enrolled in the extended 10- to 14-year follow-up study of the CREDO-Kyoto registry cohort-1 (Coronary Revascularization Demonstrating Outcome study in Kyoto) conducted in the bare-metal stent era, 5152 (PCI: n=3490 and CABG: n=1662) patients had multivessel coronary artery disease without left main disease. Median follow-up duration was 11.2 (interquartile range: 10.2-12.2) years. The cumulative 10-year incidence of all-cause death was not significantly different between PCI and CABG (32.2% versus 31.7%; log-rank P=0.93). After adjusting for confounders, however, the mortality risk of PCI was significantly higher than that of CABG (hazard ratio, 1.19 [95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.39]; P=0.03). Within 5 years after the index procedure, the risk for all-cause death was significantly higher after PCI than after CABG (hazard ratio, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.12-1.79; P=0.004). By a landmark analysis at 5 years, however, the cumulative 10-year incidence of and adjusted risk for all-cause death beyond 5 years were not significantly different between PCI and CABG (19.3% versus 20.0%; log-rank P=0.22 and hazard ratio, 1.02, 95% confidence interval, 0.83-1.26; P=0.82). CABG as compared with PCI was associated with better 10-year survival in patients with multivessel coronary artery disease. However, the benefit of CABG compared with PCI on late mortality beyond 5 years was not observed in this study. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

Peripheral neuropathy in liver cirrhosis.

PubMed

Kharbanda, Parampreet S; Prabhakar, Sudesh; Chawla, Yogesh K; Das, Chandi P; Syal, Puneet

2003-08-01

Neuropathy in association with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, is recognized; however, there are differences in the incidence and type of neuropathy reported. The causal relationship of liver disease to neuropathy has been questioned. This study was designed to evaluate the incidence and character of peripheral neuropathy in patients with liver cirrhosis. The effect of alcohol consumption, severity of liver disease and encephalopathy on the incidence and severity of neuropathy were also studied. Patients having an identifiable cause of peripheral neuropathy, except alcohol, were excluded from the study. Patients with evidence of vitamin B12 deficiency or diabetes were also excluded from the study. In this study, 33 patients with liver cirrhosis were evaluated clinically and electrophysiologically to detect any evidence of peripheral neuropathy. Nerve conduction studies were performed in the upper and lower limbs using surface electrodes. These patients also underwent a detailed clinical examination. Clinical signs of peripheral neuropathy were found in seven (21%) patients. Nerve conduction studies were abnormal in 24 (73%) patients. The pattern of involvement was predominantly of an axonal sensory motor polyneuropathy. Neuropathy was found both in patients with alcohol-related and non-alcohol-related cirrhosis. The presence of encephalopathy did not have a significant bearing on the incidence and severity of neuropathy. The neuropathy was also not significantly related to the severity of liver disease. The present study reveals that a significant number of patients with liver cirrhosis show evidence of peripheral neuropathy, which is present regardless of the etiology of cirrhosis, and is subclinical in a majority of these patients. The cause of neuropathy was probably the liver disease itself, as the incidence and severity of neuropathy in the alcohol-related cirrhosis, although higher, was not significantly different from the neuropathy in patients with non-alcohol-related cirrhosis.

Why the concept ''lifestyle diseases'' should be avoided.

PubMed

Vallgårda, Signild

2011-11-01

The concept lifestyle disease is used about a number of different diseases such as coronary heart disease, diabetes, lung cancer etc. The concept indicates that people's behaviours cause the diseases. This is only partly true. All diseases, both so-called lifestyle diseases and infectious diseases, have multiple causes. Singling out only one type of causes, such as is implied in the concept of lifestyle diseases can lead prevention to focus only on changing people s behaviours or lifestyles, and thus to neglect other possibilities to improve health. Mortality due to chronic diseases has increased during the last century and the main cause behind this is the decrease in the mortality in infectious diseases among younger people. More people live long enough to develop the chronic diseases. The concept lifestyle disease gives a too narrow picture of causes death and should be abandoned and give place for a broader understanding of causes and preventive options.

The role of seafood in foodborne diseases in the United States of America.

PubMed

Lipp, E K; Rose, J B

1997-08-01

In the United States of America, seafood ranked third on the list of products which caused foodborne disease between 1983 and 1992. Outbreaks connected with fish vectors were caused by scombroid, ciguatoxin, bacteria and unknown agents; in shellfish, unknown agents, paralytic shellfish poisoning, Vibrio spp. and other bacteria, followed by hepatitis A virus, were responsible for the outbreaks. At least ten genera of bacterial pathogens have been implicated in seafood-borne diseases. Over the past twenty-five years, bacterial pathogens associated with faecal contamination have represented only 4% of the shellfish-associated outbreaks, while naturally-occurring bacteria accounted for 20% of shellfish-related illnesses and 99% of the deaths. Most of these indigenous bacteria fall into the family Vibrionaceae which includes the genera Vibrio, Aeromonas and Plesiomonas. In general, Vibrio spp. are not associated with faecal contamination and therefore faecal indicators do not correlate with the presence of Vibrio. Viruses are the most significant cause of shellfish-associated disease: in New York State, for example, 33% and 62% of 196 outbreaks between 1981 and 1992 were caused by Norwalk virus and gastrointestinal viruses (small round structured viruses), respectively. In addition, several illnesses are a result of toxic algal blooms, the growth of naturally occurring bacteria and diatoms causing neurotoxic shellfish poisoning, paralytic shellfish poisoning, diarrhoetic shellfish poisoning, amnesic shellfish poisoning and ciguatera. Current estimates place the annual number of ciguatera cases at 20,000 world-wide. Scombroid poisoning is the most significant cause of illness associated with seafood. Scombrotoxin is of bacterial origin and halophilic Vibrio spp. causing high histamine levels are implicated as the source. Scombroid poisoning is geographically diverse and many species have been implicated, namely: tuna, mahi-mahi, bluefish, sardines, mackerel, amberjack and abalone. Temperature abuse has been cited as a major cause of scombroid poisoning. For routine work, the use of faecal indicators to predict the relative level of faecal contamination should not be disposed of. However, the main source of seafood illness is due to species which are not predicted by these organisms. In order to protect public health, routine surveillance using new pathogen-specific techniques such as polymerase chain reaction should be used. This, in combination with risk assessment methods and hazard analysis and critical control points, will begin to address the need for improvement in the safety of seafood.

Treatment of salivary gland neoplasms with fast neutron radiotherapy.

PubMed

Douglas, James G; Koh, Wui-jin; Austin-Seymour, Mary; Laramore, George E

2003-09-01

To evaluate the efficacy of fast neutron radiotherapy for the treatment of salivary gland neoplasms. Retrospective analysis. University of Washington Cancer Center, Neutron Facility, Seattle. The medical records of 279 patients treated with curative intent using fast neutron radiotherapy at the University of Washington Cancer Center were reviewed. Of the 279 patients, 263 had evidence of gross residual disease at the time of treatment (16 had no evidence of gross residual disease), 141 had tumors of a major salivary gland, and 138 had tumors of minor salivary glands. The median follow-up period was 36 months (range, 1-142 months). Local-regional control, cause-specific survival, and freedom from metastasis. The 6-year actuarial cause-specific survival rate was 67%. Multivariate analysis revealed that low group stage (I-II) disease, minor salivary sites, lack of skull base invasion, and primary disease were associated with a statistically significant improvement in cause-specific survival. The 6-year actuarial local-regional control rate was 59%. Multivariate analysis revealed size 4 cm or smaller, lack of base of skull invasion, prior surgical resection, and no previous radiotherapy to have a statistically significant improved local-regional control. Sixteen patients without evidence of gross residual disease had a 100% 6-year actuarial local-regional control. The 6-year actuarial freedom from metastasis rate was 64%. Factors associated with decreased development of systemic metastases included negative lymph nodes at the time of treatment and lack of base of skull involvement. The 6-year actuarial rate of development of grade 3 or 4 long-term toxicity (using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group and European Organization for Research on the Treatment of Cancer criteria) was 10%. No patient experienced grade 5 toxic effects. Neuron radiotherapy is an effective treatment for patients with salivary gland neoplasms who have gross residual disease and achieves excellent local-regional control in patients without evidence of gross disease.

Potential for Low-Pathogenic Avian H7 Influenza A Viruses To Replicate and Cause Disease in a Mammalian Model

PubMed Central

Zanin, Mark; Koçer, Zeynep A.; Poulson, Rebecca L.; Gabbard, Jon D.; Howerth, Elizabeth W.; Jones, Cheryl A.; Friedman, Kimberly; Seiler, Jon; Danner, Angela; Kercher, Lisa; McBride, Ryan; Paulson, James C.; Wentworth, David E.; Krauss, Scott; Tompkins, Stephen M.; Stallknecht, David E.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT H7 subtype influenza A viruses are widely distributed and have been responsible for human infections and numerous outbreaks in poultry with significant impact. Despite this, the disease-causing potential of the precursor low-pathogenic (LP) H7 viruses from the wild bird reservoir has not been investigated. Our objective was to assess the disease-causing potential of 30 LP H7 viruses isolated from wild avian species in the United States and Canada using the DBA/2J mouse model. Without prior mammalian adaptation, the majority of viruses, 27 (90%), caused mortality in mice. Of these, 17 (56.7%) caused 100% mortality and 24 were of pathogenicity similar to that of A/Anhui/1/2013 (H7N9), which is highly pathogenic in mice. Viruses of duck origin were more pathogenic than those of shorebird origin, as 13 of 18 (72.2%) duck origin viruses caused 100% mortality while 4 of 12 (33.3%) shorebird origin viruses caused 100% mortality, despite there being no difference in mean lung viral titers between the groups. Replication beyond the respiratory tract was also evident, particularly in the heart and brain. Of the 16 viruses studied for fecal shedding, 11 were detected in fecal samples. These viruses exhibited a strong preference for avian-type α2,3-linked sialic acids; however, binding to mammalian-type α2,6-linked sialic acids was also detected. These findings indicate that LP avian H7 influenza A viruses are able to infect and cause disease in mammals without prior adaptation and therefore pose a potential public health risk. IMPORTANCE Low-pathogenic (LP) avian H7 influenza A viruses are widely distributed in the avian reservoir and are the precursors of numerous outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses in commercial poultry farms. However, unlike highly pathogenic H7 viruses, the disease-causing potential of LP H7 viruses from the wild bird reservoir has not been investigated. To address this, we studied 30 LP avian H7 viruses isolated from wild avian species in the United States and Canada using the DBA/2J mouse model. Surprisingly, the majority of these viruses, 90%, caused mortality in mice without prior mammalian adaptation, and 56.7% caused 100% mortality. There was also evidence of spread beyond the respiratory tract and fecal shedding. Therefore, the disease-causing potential of LP avian H7 influenza A viruses in mammals may be underestimated, and these viruses therefore pose a potential public health risk. PMID:27852855

Causes of mortality in laying hens in different housing systems in 2001 to 2004

PubMed Central

Fossum, Oddvar; Jansson, Désirée S; Etterlin, Pernille Engelsen; Vågsholm, Ivar

2009-01-01

Background The husbandry systems for laying hens were changed in Sweden during the years 2001 – 2004, and an increase in the number of submissions for necropsy from laying hen farms was noted. Hence, this study was initiated to compare causes of mortality in different housing systems for commercial laying hens during this change. Methods Based on results from routine necropsies of 914 laying hens performed at the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) in Uppsala, Sweden between 2001 and 2004, a retrospective study on the occurrence of diseases and cannibalism, i.e., pecking leading to mortality, in different housing systems was carried out. Using the number of disease outbreaks in caged flocks as the baseline, the expected number of flocks with a certain category of disease in the other housing systems was estimated having regard to the total number of birds in the population. Whether the actual number of flocks significantly exceeded the expected number was determined using a Poisson distribution for the variance of the baseline number, a continuity correction and the exact value for the Poisson distribution function in Excel 2000. Results Common causes of mortality in necropsied laying hens included colibacillosis, erysipelas, coccidiosis, red mite infestation, lymphoid leukosis and cannibalism. Less common diagnoses were Newcastle Disease, pasteurellosis and botulism. Considering the size of the populations in the different housing systems, a larger proportion of laying hens than expected was submitted for necropsy from litter-based systems and free range production compared to hens in cages (P < 0.001). The study showed a significantly higher occurrence of bacterial and parasitic diseases and cannibalism in laying hens kept in litter-based housing systems and free-range systems than in hens kept in cages (P < 0.001). The occurrence of viral diseases was significantly higher in indoor litter-based housing systems than in cages (P < 0.001). Conclusion The results of the present study indicated that during 2001–2004 laying hens housed in litter-based housing systems, with or without access to outdoor areas, were at higher risk of infectious diseases and cannibalistic behaviour compared to laying hens in cages. Future research should focus on finding suitable prophylactic measures, including efficient biosecurity routines, to reduce the risk of infectious diseases and cannibalism in litter-based housing systems for laying hens. PMID:19146656

Microbiota and Metatranscriptome Changes Accompanying the Onset of Gingivitis.

PubMed

Nowicki, Emily M; Shroff, Raghav; Singleton, Jacqueline A; Renaud, Diane E; Wallace, Debra; Drury, Julie; Zirnheld, Jolene; Colleti, Brock; Ellington, Andrew D; Lamont, Richard J; Scott, David A; Whiteley, Marvin

2018-04-17

Over half of adults experience gingivitis, a mild yet treatable form of periodontal disease caused by the overgrowth of oral microbes. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe and irreversible disease, most commonly chronic periodontitis. While periodontal diseases are associated with a shift in the oral microbiota composition, it remains unclear how this shift impacts microbiota function early in disease progression. Here, we analyzed the transition from health to gingivitis through both 16S v4-v5 rRNA amplicon and metatranscriptome sequencing of subgingival plaque samples from individuals undergoing an experimental gingivitis treatment. Beta-diversity analysis of 16S rRNA reveals that samples cluster based on disease severity and patient but not by oral hygiene status. Significant shifts in the abundance of several genera occurred during disease transition, suggesting a dysbiosis due to development of gingivitis. Comparing taxonomic abundance with transcriptomic activity revealed concordance of bacterial diversity composition between the two quantification assays in samples originating from both healthy and diseased teeth. Metatranscriptome sequencing analysis indicates that during the early stages of transition to gingivitis, a number of virulence-related transcripts were significantly differentially expressed in individual and across pooled patient samples. Upregulated genes include those involved in proteolytic and nucleolytic processes, while expression levels of those involved in surface structure assembly and other general virulence functions leading to colonization or adaptation within the host are more dynamic. These findings help characterize the transition from health to periodontal disease and identify genes associated with early disease. IMPORTANCE Although more than 50% of adults have some form of periodontal disease, there remains a significant gap in our understanding of its underlying cause. We initiated this study in order to better characterize the progression from oral health to disease. We first analyzed changes in the abundances of specific microorganisms in dental plaque collected from teeth during health and gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease. We found that the clinical score of disease and patient from whom the sample originated but not tooth brushing are significantly correlated with microbial community composition. While a number of virulence-related gene transcripts are differentially expressed in gingivitis samples relative to health, not all are increased, suggesting that the overall activity of the microbiota is dynamic during disease transition. Better understanding of which microbes are present and their function during early periodontal disease can potentially lead to more targeted prophylactic approaches to prevent disease progression. Copyright © 2018 Nowicki et al.

Biological control of postharvest pathogens

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Postharvest diseases of harvested commodities cause significant reductions in food availability and financial profits. Additionally, regulatory agencies are increasingly restricting or banning the postharvest use of synthetic chemical fungicides. This has increased the need to develop more ecofrie...

Global oral health inequalities: task group--periodontal disease.

PubMed

Jin, L J; Armitage, G C; Klinge, B; Lang, N P; Tonetti, M; Williams, R C

2011-05-01

Periodontal diseases constitute one of the major global oral health burdens, and periodontitis remains a major cause of tooth loss in adults worldwide. The World Health Organization recently reported that severe periodontitis exists in 5-20% of adult populations, and most children and adolescents exhibit signs of gingivitis. Likely reasons to account for these prevalent diseases include genetic, epigenetic, and environmental risk factors, as well as individual and socio-economic determinants. Currently, there are fundamental gaps in knowledge of such fundamental issues as the mechanisms of initiation and progression of periodontal diseases, which are undefined; inability to identify high-risk forms of gingivitis that progress to periodontitis; lack of evidence on how to prevent the diseases effectively; inability to detect disease activity and predict treatment efficacy; and limited information on the effects of integration of periodontal health as a part of the health care program designed to promote general health and prevent chronic diseases. In the present report, 12 basic, translational, and applied research areas have been proposed to address the issue of global periodontal health inequality. We believe that the oral health burden caused by periodontal diseases could be relieved significantly in the near future through an effective global collaboration.

Amelioration of Sickle Cell Pain after Parathyroidectomy in Two Patients with Concurrent Hyperparathyroidism: An Interesting Finding.

PubMed

Muthu, John; Ali, Mir

2016-01-01

Patients with sickle cell disease have high morbidity and healthcare utilization due to repeated painful crises. Some coexisting conditions which cause pain similar to sickle cell disease may go undiagnosed in these patients. We report two adults with concurrent hyperparathyroidism who experienced significant improvement in sickle cell pain following parathyroidectomy thereby pointing to hyperparathyroidism as the principal causative factor for their pain. Meticulous evaluation for parathyroid disorders can be rewarding in sickle cell disease.

Amelioration of Sickle Cell Pain after Parathyroidectomy in Two Patients with Concurrent Hyperparathyroidism: An Interesting Finding

PubMed Central

Muthu, John

2016-01-01

Patients with sickle cell disease have high morbidity and healthcare utilization due to repeated painful crises. Some coexisting conditions which cause pain similar to sickle cell disease may go undiagnosed in these patients. We report two adults with concurrent hyperparathyroidism who experienced significant improvement in sickle cell pain following parathyroidectomy thereby pointing to hyperparathyroidism as the principal causative factor for their pain. Meticulous evaluation for parathyroid disorders can be rewarding in sickle cell disease. PMID:27579039

The Role of Aldosteronism in Causing Obesity-Related Cardiovascular Risk

PubMed Central

Calhoun, David A.; Sharma, Kumar

2010-01-01

Synopsis A large body of evidence strongly links aldosterone to development and progression of cardiovacscular disease, including vascular stiffness, left ventricular hypertrophy, congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and especially, hypertension. Emerging data suggests that adipocytes may serve as a source of aldosterone, either directly, or indirectly, through release of aldosterone-stimulating factors. If adipocytes are confirmed to contribute importantly to hyperaldosteronism, it would have significant clinical implications in linking aldosterone to obesity-related increases in cardiovascular risk. Such a cause-and-effect would then provide the opportunity to reverse that risk with preferential use of aldosterone antagonists in obese patients. PMID:20621254

[Cancellations in pediatric surgery].

PubMed

González Landa, G; Sánchez-Ruiz, I; San Sebastián, J A; Busturia, P; Cuesta, E; Prado, C; Azcona, I

1998-07-01

Cancellations have an important role in the effectiveness of the surgical schedule. Analyze the evolution of the cancellations during the years 1994-1997, after institution of several corrective measures. We started in 1994 together with the Quality Unit of the Hospital, a program to reduce surgical cancellations. It consisted in improvement of parents information, surgical schedule centralization, and increasing the awareness of the importance of constant improvement. Cancellations have been divided in: inevitables and inevitables, and analyzed for the entire Service and for each speciality. A significant reduction of cancellations have been obtain (from 12.38% in 1992 to 3.35% in 1997). The inevitable causes (no presentation, inadequate preparation and lack of time in the surgical room) have shown the most improvement. Although the inevitable causes (intercurrent disease) were also significantly improved, after obtaining prior information of the health of the child, by telephone call or parents advise. ENT is the speciality with greatest improvement by significant reduction of the non presentation and intercurrent disease. After corrective measures conjointly with a realistic surgical schedule, prior telephone call and improvement quality concept, have permitted a significant reduction of cancellations.

Sense of life worth living (ikigai) and mortality in Japan: Ohsaki Study.

PubMed

Sone, Toshimasa; Nakaya, Naoki; Ohmori, Kaori; Shimazu, Taichi; Higashiguchi, Mizuka; Kakizaki, Masako; Kikuchi, Nobutaka; Kuriyama, Shinichi; Tsuji, Ichiro

2008-07-01

To investigate the association between the sense of "life worth living (ikigai)" and the cause-specific mortality risk. The psychological factors play important roles in morbidity and mortality risks. However, the association between the negative psychological factors and the risk of mortality is inconclusive. The Ohsaki Study, a prospective cohort study, was initiated on 43,391 Japanese adults. To assess if the subjects found a sense of ikigai, they were asked the question, "Do you have ikigai in your life?" We used Cox regression analysis to calculate the hazard ratio of the all-cause and cause-specific mortality according to the sense of ikigai categories. Over 7 years' follow-up, 3048 of the subjects died. The risk of all-cause mortality was significantly higher among the subjects who did not find a sense of ikigai as compared with that in the subjects who found a sense of ikigai; the multivariate adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) was 1.5 (1.3-1.7). As for the cause-specific mortality, subjects who did not find a sense of ikigai were significantly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (1.6; 1.3-2.0) and external cause mortality (1.9; 1.1-3.3), but not of the cancer mortality (1.3; 1.0-1.6). In this prospective cohort study, subjects who did not find a sense of ikigai were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. The increase in mortality risk was attributable to cardiovascular disease and external causes, but not cancer.

Kidney Diseases in Agricultural Communities: A Case Against Heat-Stress Nephropathy.

PubMed

Herath, Chula; Jayasumana, Channa; De Silva, P Mangala C S; De Silva, P H Chaminda; Siribaddana, Sisira; De Broe, Marc E

2018-03-01

The beginning of the 21st century has seen the emergence of a new chronic tubulo-interstitial kidney disease of uncertain cause among agricultural communities in Central America and Sri Lanka. Despite many similarities in demography, presentation, clinical features, and renal histopathology in affected individuals in these regions, a toxic etiology has been considered mainly in Sri Lanka, whereas the predominant hypothesis in Central America has been that recurrent acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by heat stress leads to chronic kidney disease (CKD). This is termed the heat stress/dehydration hypothesis . This review attempts to demonstrate that there is sparse evidence for the occurrence of significant AKI among manual workers who are at high risk, and that there is little substantial evidence that an elevation of serum creatinine < 0.3 mg/dl in previously healthy people will lead to CKD even with recurrent episodes. It is also proposed that the extent of global warming over the last half-century was not sufficient to have caused a drastic change in the effects of heat stress on renal function in manual workers. Comparable chronic tubulo-interstitial kidney disease is not seen in workers exposed to heat in most tropical regions, although the disease is seen in individuals not exposed to heat stress in the affected regions. The proposed pathogenic mechanisms of heat stress causing CKD have not yet been proved in humans or demonstrated in workers at risk. It is believed that claims of a global warming nephropathy in relation to this disease may be premature and without convincing evidence.

Trends in cause specific mortality across occupations in Japanese men of working age during period of economic stagnation, 1980-2005: retrospective cohort study.

PubMed

Wada, Koji; Kondo, Naoki; Gilmour, Stuart; Ichida, Yukinobu; Fujino, Yoshihisa; Satoh, Toshihiko; Shibuya, Kenji

2012-03-06

To assess the temporal trends in occupation specific all causes and cause specific mortality in Japan between 1980 and 2005. Longitudinal analysis of individual death certificates by last occupation before death. Data on population by age and occupation were derived from the population census. Government records, Japan. Men aged 30-59. Age standardised mortality rate for all causes, all cancers, cerebrovascular disease, ischaemic heart disease, unintentional injuries, and suicide. Age standardised mortality rates for all causes and for the four leading causes of death (cancers, ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and unintentional injuries) steadily decreased from 1980 to 2005 among all occupations except for management and professional workers, for whom rates began to rise in the late 1990s (P<0.001). During the study period, the mortality rate was lowest in other occupations such as production/labour, clerical, and sales workers, although overall variability of the age standardised mortality rate across occupations widened. The rate for suicide rapidly increased since the late 1990s, with the greatest increase being among management and professional workers. Occupational patterns in cause specific mortality changed dramatically in Japan during the period of its economic stagnation and resulted in the reversal of occupational patterns in mortality that have been well established in western countries. A significant negative effect on the health of management and professional workers rather than clerks and blue collar workers could be because of increased job demands and more stressful work environments and could have eliminated or even reversed the health inequality across occupations that had existed previously.

Sounding the alarm on chronic kidney disease in farming communities: María Isabel Rodríguez MD. Minister of health, El Salvador. Interview by Conner Gorry.

PubMed

Rodríguez, María Isabel

2013-07-01

In April 2013, a consortium of regional health ministries, nongovernmental organizations, aid agencies, clinical specialists and researchers from diverse sectors convened in San Salvador to discuss the epidemic of chronic kidney disease of unknown or non-traditional causes (CKDu) plaguing agricultural communities in Central America and beyond. The three-day meeting, where presentation of research on the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of CKDu roused significant debate, led the Pan American Health Organization to declare CKDu "a pressing and serious health problem [which] represents a burden for families, communities, health systems and society as a whole."[1] This High-level Meeting on Chronic Kidney Disease of Non-Traditional Causes in Central America (24-26 April) followed several international meetings at which Dr María Isabel Rodríguez, El Salvador's Minister of Health, presented studies on the disease burden in her country, where end-stage renal disease is the leading cause of hospital deaths. She outlined results of original scientific research by Dr Carlos Orantes (first published in MEDICC Review), that described an "elevated prevalence of chronic kidney disease, chronic renal failure and risk factors" among the patients studied, noting that "the most common [form] was chronic kidney disease of unknown cause, associated with neither diabetes nor hypertension."[2] In this interview with MEDICC Review, Dr Rodríguez discussed the gravity of the problem in Salvadoran agricultural communities; the importance of CKDu research in other countries; and the urgent need for intersectoral action and active community participation to confront and control the epidemic.

Burden of physical inactivity and hospitalization costs due to chronic diseases

PubMed Central

Bielemann, Renata Moraes; da Silva, Bruna Gonçalves Cordeiro; Coll, Carolina de Vargas Nunes; Xavier, Mariana Otero; da Silva, Shana Ginar

2015-01-01

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the physical inactivity-related inpatient costs of chronic non-communicable diseases. METHODS This study used data from 2013, from Brazilian Unified Health System, regarding inpatient numbers and costs due to malignant colon and breast neoplasms, cerebrovascular diseases, ischemic heart diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and osteoporosis. In order to calculate the share physical inactivity represents in that, the physical inactivity-related risks, which apply to each disease, were considered, and physical inactivity prevalence during leisure activities was obtained from Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílio (Brazil’s National Household Sample Survey). The analysis was stratified by genders and residing country regions of subjects who were 40 years or older. The physical inactivity-related hospitalization cost regarding each cause was multiplied by the respective share it regarded to. RESULTS In 2013, 974,641 patients were admitted due to seven different causes in Brazil, which represented a high cost. South region was found to have the highest patient admission rate in most studied causes. The highest prevalences for physical inactivity were observed in North and Northeast regions. The highest inactivity-related share in men was found for osteoporosis in all regions (≈ 35.0%), whereas diabetes was found to have a higher share regarding inactivity in women (33.0% to 37.0% variation in the regions). Ischemic heart diseases accounted for the highest total costs that could be linked to physical inactivity in all regions and for both genders, being followed by cerebrovascular diseases. Approximately 15.0% of inpatient costs from Brazilian Unified Health System were connected to physical inactivity. CONCLUSIONS Physical inactivity significantly impacts the number of patient admissions due to the evaluated causes and through their resulting costs, with different genders and country regions representing different shares. PMID:26487291

Burden of physical inactivity and hospitalization costs due to chronic diseases.

PubMed

Bielemann, Renata Moraes; Silva, Bruna Gonçalves Cordeiro da; Coll, Carolina de Vargas Nunes; Xavier, Mariana Otero; Silva, Shana Ginar da

2015-01-01

To evaluate the physical inactivity-related inpatient costs of chronic non-communicable diseases. This study used data from 2013, from Brazilian Unified Health System, regarding inpatient numbers and costs due to malignant colon and breast neoplasms, cerebrovascular diseases, ischemic heart diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and osteoporosis. In order to calculate the share physical inactivity represents in that, the physical inactivity-related risks, which apply to each disease, were considered, and physical inactivity prevalence during leisure activities was obtained from Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílio(Brazil's National Household Sample Survey). The analysis was stratified by genders and residing country regions of subjects who were 40 years or older. The physical inactivity-related hospitalization cost regarding each cause was multiplied by the respective share it regarded to. In 2013, 974,641 patients were admitted due to seven different causes in Brazil, which represented a high cost. South region was found to have the highest patient admission rate in most studied causes. The highest prevalences for physical inactivity were observed in North and Northeast regions. The highest inactivity-related share in men was found for osteoporosis in all regions (≈ 35.0%), whereas diabetes was found to have a higher share regarding inactivity in women (33.0% to 37.0% variation in the regions). Ischemic heart diseases accounted for the highest total costs that could be linked to physical inactivity in all regions and for both genders, being followed by cerebrovascular diseases. Approximately 15.0% of inpatient costs from Brazilian Unified Health System were connected to physical inactivity. Physical inactivity significantly impacts the number of patient admissions due to the evaluated causes and through their resulting costs, with different genders and country regions representing different shares.

Enzyme replacement therapy of Fabry disease.

PubMed

Clarke, Joe T R; Iwanochko, R Mark

2005-08-01

Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disease caused by deficiency of the enzyme alpha-galactosidase A and results in pain, progressive renal impairment, cardiomyopathy, and cerebrovascular disease. The results of two major randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials and open-label extensions have shown that replacement of the deficient enzyme with either of two preparations of recombinant human alpha-galactosidase A, agalsidase-alfa, and agalsidase-beta is safe. Biweekly i.v. infusions of 0.2 mg/kg of agalsidase-alfa were associated with a significant decrease in pain and stabilization of renal function. Biweekly infusions of 1 mg/kg of agalsidase-beta were associated with virtually complete clearing of accumulated glycolipid substrate from renal and cutaneous capillary endothelial cells. Several smaller, open-label studies, along with observations made in the course of monitoring large numbers of patients on enzyme replacement therapy, indicated that treatment stabilizes renal function and produces significant improvements in myocardial mass and function. Treatment of Fabry disease by enzyme replacement has a significant impact on at least some serious complications of the disease.

A national case-crossover analysis of the short-term effect of PM2.5 on hospitalizations and mortality in subjects with diabetes and neurological disorders.

PubMed

Zanobetti, Antonella; Dominici, Francesca; Wang, Yun; Schwartz, Joel D

2014-05-22

Diabetes and neurological disorders are a growing burden among the elderly, and may also make them more susceptible to particulate air matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μg (PM2.5). The same biological responses thought to effect cardiovascular disease through air pollution-mediated systemic oxidative stress, inflammation and cerebrovascular dysfunction could also be relevant for diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. We conducted multi-site case-crossover analyses of all-cause deaths and of hospitalizations for diabetes or neurological disorders among Medicare enrollees (>65 years) during the period 1999 to 2010 in 121 US communities. We examined whether 1) short-term exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of hospitalization for diabetes or neurological disorders, and 2) the association between short-term exposure to PM2.5 and all-cause mortality is modified by having a previous hospitalization of diabetes or neurological disorders. We found that short term exposure to PM2.5 is significantly associated with an increase in hospitalization risks for diabetes (1.14% increase, 95% CI: 0.56, 1.73 for a 10 μg/m3 increase in the 2 days average), and for Parkinson's disease (3.23%, 1.08, 5.43); we also found an increase in all-cause mortality risks (0.64%, 95% CI: 0.42, 0.85), but we didn't find that hospitalization for diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases modifies the association between short term exposure to PM2.5 and all-cause mortality. We found that short-term exposure to fine particles increased the risk of hospitalizations for Parkinson's disease and diabetes, and of all-cause mortality. While the association between short term exposure to PM2.5 and mortality was higher among Medicare enrollees that had a previous admission for diabetes and neurological disorders than among Medicare enrollees that did not had a prior admission for these diseases, the effect modification was not statistically significant. We believe that these results provide useful insights regarding the mechanisms by which particles may affect the brain. A better understanding of the mechanisms will enable the development of new strategies to protect individuals at risk and to reduce detrimental effects of air pollution on the nervous system.

Associations of cause-specific mortality with area level deprivation and travel time to health care in France from 1990 to 2007, a multilevel analysis.

PubMed

Ghosn, Walid; Menvielle, Gwenn; Rican, Stéphane; Rey, Grégoire

2017-08-02

It is now widely accepted that social and physical environment participate in shaping health. While mortality is used to guide public health policies and is considered as a synthetic measure of population health, few studies deals with the contextual features potentially associated with mortality in a representative sample of an entire country. This paper investigates the possible role of area deprivation (FDep99) and travel time to health care on French cause-specific mortality in a proper multilevel setting. The study population was a 1% sample representative of the French population aged from 30 to 79 years in 1990 and followed up until 2007. A frailty Cox model was used to measure individual, contextual effects and spatial variances for several causes of death. The chosen contextual scale was the Zone d'Emploi of 1994 (348 units) which delimits the daily commute of people. The geographical accessibility to health care score was constructed with principal component analysis, using 40 variables of hospital specialties and health practitioners' travel time. The outcomes highlight a positive and significant association between area deprivation and mortality for all causes (HR = 1.24), cancers, cerebrovascular diseases, ischemic heart diseases, and preventable and amenable diseases (HR from 1.14 to 1.29). These contextual associations exhibit no substantial differences by sex except for premature ischemic heart diseases mortality which was much greater in women. Unexpectedly, mortality decreased as the time to reach health care resources increased. Only geographical disparities in cerebrovascular and ischemic heart diseases mortality were explained by compositional and contextual effects. The findings suggest the presence of confounding factors in the association between mortality and travel time to health care, possibly owing to population density and health-selected migration. Although the spatial scale considered to define the context of residence was relatively large, the associations with area deprivation were strong in comparison to the existing literature and significant for almost all the causes of deaths investigated. The broad spectrum of diseases associated with area deprivation and individual education support the idea of a need for a global health policy targeting both individual and territories to reduce social and socio-spatial inequalities.

Secondary Pulmonary Hypertension and Right-Sided Heart Failure at Presentation in Grave's Disease

PubMed Central

Ganeshpure, Swapnil Panjabrao; Vaidya, Gaurang Nandkishor; Gattani, Vipul

2012-01-01

A young female presented with evidence of right-sided heart failure and was subsequently found to have significant pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). Because of her normal left ventricular function and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, the most probable site of etiology seemed to be the pulmonary vasculature. All the common possible secondary causes of PAH were ruled out, but during the investigations, she was found to have elevated thyroid function tests compatible with the diagnosis of Grave's disease. The treatment of Grave's disease, initially by medications and subsequently by radioiodine therapy, was associated with a significant reduction in the pulmonary artery systolic pressure. The purpose of this case report is to highlight one of the unusual and underdiagnosed presentations of Grave's disease. PMID:23198182

Autoantibodies and their clinical significance in a black vitiligo population.

PubMed

Grimes, P E; Halder, R M; Jones, C; Chakrabarti, S G; Enterline, J; Minus, H R; Kenney, J A

1983-04-01

The frequency of autoantibodies was determined in 70 black vitiligo patients and controls. Both groups were screened for antithyroid, antinuclear, antigastric parietal cell, anti-smooth muscle cell, and antimitochondrial autoantibodies. The significance of autoantibodies was determined in vitiligo patients by correlating their presence or absence with various clinical features of the patients. The overall frequencies of autoimmune and endocrine diseases were also assessed in vitiligo patients, controls, and their respective families. Vitiligo patients had an increased frequency of antithyroid antibodies and an increased frequency of autoimmune and/or endocrine diseases. These diseases included, especially, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and alopecia areata. Autoantibody-positive vitiligo patients had an increased frequency of first- and second-degree relatives having autoimmune and/or endocrine diseases. These findings tend to support an autoimmune cause of vitiligo in black patients.

Changes in Caribbean coral disease prevalence after the 2005 bleaching event.

PubMed

Cróquer, Aldo; Weil, Ernesto

2009-11-16

Bleaching events and disease epizootics have increased during the past decades, suggesting a positive link between these 2 causes in producing coral mortality. However, studies to test this hypothesis, integrating a broad range of hierarchical spatial scales from habitats to distant localities, have not been conducted in the Caribbean. In this study, we examined links between bleaching intensity and disease prevalence collected from 6 countries, 2 reef sites for each country, and 3 habitats within each reef site (N = 6 x 2 x 3 = 36 site-habitat combinations) during the peak of bleaching in 2005 and a year after, in 2006. Patterns of disease prevalence and bleaching were significantly correlated (Rho = 0.58, p = 0.04). Higher variability in disease prevalence after bleaching occurred among habitats at each particular reef site, with a significant increase in prevalence recorded in 4 of the 10 site-habitats where bleaching was intense and a non-significant increase in disease prevalence in 18 out of the 26 site-habitats where bleaching was low to moderate. A significant linear correlation was found (r = 0.89, p = 0.008) between bleaching and the prevalence of 2 virulent diseases (yellow band disease and white plague) affecting the Montastraea species complex. Results of this study suggest that if bleaching events become more intense and frequent, disease-related mortality of Caribbean coral reef builders could increase, with uncertain effects on coral reef resilience.

Relationships between cold-temperature indices and all causes and cardiopulmonary morbidity and mortality in a subtropical island.

PubMed

Lin, Yu-Kai; Wang, Yu-Chun; Lin, Pay-Liam; Li, Ming-Hsu; Ho, Tsung-Jung

2013-09-01

This study aimed to identify optimal cold-temperature indices that are associated with the elevated risks of mortality from, and outpatient visits for all causes and cardiopulmonary diseases during the cold seasons (November to April) from 2000 to 2008 in Northern, Central and Southern Taiwan. Eight cold-temperature indices, average, maximum, and minimum temperatures, and the temperature humidity index, wind chill index, apparent temperature, effective temperature (ET), and net effective temperature and their standardized Z scores were applied to distributed lag non-linear models. Index-specific cumulative 26-day (lag 0-25) mortality risk, cumulative 8-day (lag 0-7) outpatient visit risk, and their 95% confidence intervals were estimated at 1 and 2 standardized deviations below the median temperature, comparing with the Z score of the lowest risks for mortality and outpatient visits. The average temperature was adequate to evaluate the mortality risk from all causes and circulatory diseases. Excess all-cause mortality increased for 17-24% when average temperature was at Z=-1, and for 27-41% at Z=-2 among study areas. The cold-temperature indices were inconsistent in estimating risk of outpatient visits. Average temperature and THI were appropriate indices for measuring risk for all-cause outpatient visits. Relative risk of all-cause outpatient visits increased slightly by 2-7% when average temperature was at Z=-1, but no significant risk at Z=-2. Minimum temperature estimated the strongest risk associated with outpatient visits of respiratory diseases. In conclusion, the relationships between cold temperatures and health varied among study areas, types of health event, and the cold-temperature indices applied. Mortality from all causes and circulatory diseases and outpatient visits of respiratory diseases has a strong association with cold temperatures in the subtropical island, Taiwan. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Decomposition of socio-economic differences in life expectancy at birth by age and cause of death among 4 million South Korean public servants and their dependents.

PubMed

Khang, Young-Ho; Yang, Seungmi; Cho, Hong-Jun; Jung-Choi, Kyunghee; Yun, Sung-Cheol

2010-12-01

Differences in life expectancy at birth across social classes can be more easily interpreted as a measure of absolute inequalities in survival. This study quantified age- and cause-specific contributions to life expectancy differences by income among 4 million public servants and their dependents in South Korea (9.1% of the total Korean population). Using 9-year mortality follow-up data (208,612 deaths) on 4,055,150 men and women aged 0-94 years, with national health insurance premiums imposed proportionally based on monthly salary as a measure of income, differences in life expectancy at birth by income were estimated by age- and cause-specific mortality differences using Arriaga's decomposition method. Life expectancy at birth gradually increased with income. Differences in life expectancy at birth between the highest and the lowest income quartile were 6.22 years in men and 1.74 years in women. Mortality differentials by income among those aged ≥50 years contributed most substantially (80.4% in men and 85.6% in women) to the socio-economic differences in life expectancy at birth. In men, cancers (stomach, liver and lung), cardiovascular diseases (stroke), digestive diseases (liver cirrhosis) and external causes (transport accidents and suicide) were important contributors to the life expectancy differences. In women, the contribution of ill-defined causes was most important. Cardiovascular diseases (stroke and hypertensive disease) and external causes (transport accidents and suicide) also contributed to the life expectancy differences in women while the contributions of cancers and digestive diseases were minimal. Reductions in socio-economic differentials in mortality from stroke and external causes (transport accidents and suicide) among middle-aged and older men and women would significantly contribute to equalizing life expectancy among income groups. Policy efforts to reduce mortality differentials in major cancers (stomach, liver and lung) and liver cirrhosis are also important for eliminating Korean men's socio-economic inequalities in life expectancy.

Foodborne disease surveillance in the Pacific: perspectives for the future.

PubMed

Chiller, Tom; Yan, Hannah; Tu'uau-Potoi, Nuku'alofa; O'Leary, Michael; Garin, Benoit; Singh, Marinara; Magno, Theodora; Dunn, John; Hazzard, Tony; Pryor, Jan

2005-09-01

Foodborne diseases are an important cause of gastrointestinal illness in Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs). They are known to have significant health and economic consequences, however, reliable data on the various causes and the foodborne sources associated with specific disease are limited. This lack of data limits our understanding about foodborne diseases in the PICTs, their burden and impact on public health, and possible ways to improve food safety. There is an urgent need for better surveillance data. Improving country surveillance systems and the capacity for outbreak investigations will help address these limitations. This paper is the outcome of individual research and a four-day meeting of technical experts convened to develop practical options that PICTs might consider to enhance foodborne disease (FBD) surveillance systems. It is anticipated that the content and recommendations outlined herein will assist in establishing a regional strategy for Pacific FBD surveillance. It gives a framework on how to develop and enhance FBD surveillance for both the regional and national levels and provides examples that countries in the Pacific may consider to enhance their foodborne disease surveillance systems.

The continuing problem of human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness).

PubMed

Kennedy, Peter G E

2008-08-01

Human African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, is a neglected disease, and it continues to pose a major threat to 60 million people in 36 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Transmitted by the bite of the tsetse fly, the disease is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Trypanosoma and comes in two types: East African human African trypanosomiasis caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense and the West African form caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense. There is an early or hemolymphatic stage and a late or encephalitic stage, when the parasites cross the blood-brain barrier to invade the central nervous system. Two critical current issues are disease staging and drug therapy, especially for late-stage disease. Lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid will remain the only method of disease staging until reliable noninvasive methods are developed, but there is no widespread consensus as to what exactly defines biologically central nervous system disease or what specific cerebrospinal fluid findings should justify drug therapy for late-stage involvement. All four main drugs used for human African trypanosomiasis are toxic, and melarsoprol, the only drug that is effective for both types of central nervous system disease, is so toxic that it kills 5% of patients who receive it. Eflornithine, alone or combined with nifurtimox, is being used increasingly as first-line therapy for gambiense disease. There is a pressing need for an effective, safe oral drug for both stages of the disease, but this will require a significant increase in investment for new drug discovery from Western governments and the pharmaceutical industry.

Splenomegaly - Diagnostic validity, work-up, and underlying causes.

PubMed

Curovic Rotbain, Emelie; Lund Hansen, Dennis; Schaffalitzky de Muckadell, Ove; Wibrand, Flemming; Meldgaard Lund, Allan; Frederiksen, Henrik

2017-01-01

Our aim was to assess the validity of the ICD-10 code for splenomegaly in the Danish National Registry of Patients (DNRP), as well as to investigate which underlying diseases explained the observed splenomegaly. Splenomegaly is a common finding in patients referred to an internal medical department and can be caused by a large spectrum of diseases, including haematological diseases and liver cirrhosis. However, some patients remain without a causal diagnosis, despite extensive medical work-up. We identified 129 patients through the DNRP, that had been given the ICD-10 splenomegaly diagnosis code in 1994-2013 at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, excluding patients with prior splenomegaly, malignant haematological neoplasia or liver cirrhosis. Medical records were reviewed for validity of the splenomegaly diagnosis, diagnostic work-up, and the underlying disease was determined. The positive predictive value (PPV) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated for the splenomegaly diagnosis code. Patients with idiopathic splenomegaly in on-going follow-up were also invited to be investigated for Gaucher disease. The overall PPV was 92% (95% CI: 85, 96). Haematological diseases were the underlying causal diagnosis in 39%; hepatic diseases in 18%, infectious disease in 10% and other diseases in 8%. 25% of patients with splenomegaly remained without a causal diagnosis. Lymphoma was the most common haematological causal diagnosis and liver cirrhosis the most common hepatic causal diagnosis. None of the investigated patients with idiopathic splenomegaly had Gaucher disease. Our findings show that the splenomegaly diagnosis in the DNRP is valid and can be used in registry-based studies. However, because of suspected significant under-coding, it should be considered if supplementary data sources should be used in addition, in order to attain a more representative population. Haematological diseases were the most common cause, however in a large fraction of patients no causal diagnosis was found.

Controlling disease and creating disparities: a fundamental cause perspective.

PubMed

Phelan, Jo C; Link, Bruce G

2005-10-01

The United States and other developed countries experienced enormous improvements in population health during the 20th century. In the context of this dramatic positive change, health disparities by race and socioeconomic status emerged for several potent killers. Any explanation for current health disparities must take these changing patterns into account. Any explanation that ignores large improvements in population health and fails to account for the emergence of disparities for specific diseases is an inadequate explanation of current disparities. We argue that genetic explanations and some prominent social causation explanations are incompatible with these facts. We propose that the theory of "fundamental causes" can account for both vast improvements in population health and the creation of large socioeconomic and racial disparities in mortality for specific causes of death over time. Specifically, we argue that it is our enormously expanded capacity to control disease and death in combination with existing social and economic inequalities that create health disparities by race and socioeconomic status: When we develop the ability to control disease and death, the benefits of this new-found ability are distributed according to resources of knowledge, money, power, prestige, and beneficial social connections. We present data on changing mortality patterns by race and socioeconomic status for two types of diseases: those for which our capacity to prevent death has increased significantly and those for which we remain largely unable to prevent death. Time trends in mortality patterns are consistent with the fundamental cause explanation.

Pediatric Chest Pain-Low-Probability Referral: A Multi-Institutional Analysis From Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plans (SCAMPs®), the Pediatric Health Information Systems Database, and the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey.

PubMed

Harahsheh, Ashraf S; O'Byrne, Michael L; Pastor, Bill; Graham, Dionne A; Fulton, David R

2017-11-01

We conducted a study to assess test characteristics of red-flag criteria for identifying cardiac disease causing chest pain and technical charges of low-probability referrals. Accuracy of red-flag criteria was ascertained through study of chest pain Standardized Clinical Assessment and Management Plans (SCAMPs®) data. Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group1 (concerning clinical elements) and Group2 (without). We compared incidence of cardiac disease causing chest pain between these 2 groups. Technical charges of Group 2 were analyzed using the Pediatric Health Information System database. Potential savings for the US population was estimated using National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data. Fifty-two percent of subjects formed Group 1. Cardiac disease causing chest pain was identified in 8/1656 (0.48%). No heart disease was identified in patients in Group 2 ( P = .03). Applying red-flags in determining need for referral identified patients with cardiac disease causing chest pain with 100% sensitivity. Median technical charges for Group 2, over a 4-year period, were US2014$775 559. Eliminating cardiac testing of low-probability referrals would save US2014$3 775 182 in technical charges annually. Red-flag criteria were an effective screen for children with chest pain. Eliminating cardiac testing in children without red-flags for referral has significant technical charge savings.

Changes in Inhibitory Control of Circular Smooth Muscle During Coilitis in the Rat

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-03-25

diarrhea is often the first symptom upon disease relapse. Previous data have shown that intraluminal exposure of rabbit ileum to two different...Colitis causes symptoms of diarrhea interspersed with periods of quiescence. Changes in smooth muscle contractility may contribute to abnormal...motility seen in inflammatory bowel disease . Inhibitory neurotransmitters contribute a significant role in maintaining normal motility and may be altered

Wildfire and forest disease interaction lead to greater loss of soil nutrients and carbon

Treesearch

Richard C. Cobb; Ross K. Meentemeyer; David M. Rizzo

2016-01-01

Fire and forest disease have significant ecological impacts, but the interactions of these two disturbances are rarely studied. We measured soil C, N, Ca, P, and pH in forests of the Big Sur region of California impacted by the exotic pathogen Phytophthora ramorum, cause of sudden oak death, and the 2008 Basin wildfire complex. In Big Sur,...

A journey from a SSR-based low density map to a SNP-based high density map for identification of disease resistance quantitative trait loci in peanut

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Mapping and identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) are important for efficient marker-assisted breeding. Diseases such as leaf spots and Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) cause significant loses to peanut growers. The U.S. Peanut Genome Initiative (PGI) was launched in 2004, and expanded to...

[Leptospirosis outbreak in calves from Corrientes Province, Argentina].

PubMed

Draghi, María G; Brihuega, Bibiana; Benítez, Daniel; Sala, Juan M; Biotti, Graciela M; Pereyra, Matilde; Homse, Alberto; Guariniello, Luciano

2011-01-01

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease resulting in significant economic losses in livestock production. This disease causes abortion, embryo death, death of calves within the first few days of life and mastitis. We report a leptospirosis outbreak in calf growing and fattening. Histopathological and hemoparasite studies, immunofluorescence, and bacterial cultures were performed. A strain of Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona was isolated from samples collected from dead calves.

Genome-wide association studies reveal similar genetic architecture with shared and unique QTL for Bacterial Cold Water Disease resistance in two rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) breeding populations

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Bacterial cold water disease (BCWD) causes significant mortality and economic losses in salmonid aquaculture. In previous studies, we identified moderate-large effect QTL for BCWD resistance in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). However, the recent availability of a 57K SNP array and a genome phys...

Dietary sodium-to-potassium ratio as a risk factor for stroke, cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in Japan: the NIPPON DATA80 cohort study

PubMed Central

Okayama, Akira; Okuda, Nagako; Miura, Katsuyuki; Okamura, Tomonori; Hayakawa, Takehito; Akasaka, Hiroshi; Ohnishi, Hirofumi; Saitoh, Shigeyuki; Arai, Yusuke; Kiyohara, Yutaka; Takashima, Naoyuki; Yoshita, Katsushi; Fujiyoshi, Akira; Zaid, Maryam; Ohkubo, Takayoshi; Ueshima, Hirotsugu

2016-01-01

Objectives To evaluate the impact of dietary sodium and potassium (Na–K) ratio on mortality from total and subtypes of stroke, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all causes, using 24-year follow-up data of a representative sample of the Japanese population. Setting Prospective cohort study. Participants In the 1980 National Cardiovascular Survey, participants were followed for 24 years (NIPPON DATA80, National Integrated Project for Prospective Observation of Non-communicable Disease And its Trends in the Aged). Men and women aged 30–79 years without hypertensive treatment, history of stroke or acute myocardial infarction (n=8283) were divided into quintiles according to dietary Na–K ratio assessed by a 3-day weighing dietary record at baseline. Age-adjusted and multivariable-adjusted HRs were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel method and Cox proportional hazards model. Primary outcome measures Mortality from total and subtypes of stroke, CVD and all causes. Results A total of 1938 deaths from all causes were observed over 176 926 person-years. Na–K ratio was significantly and non-linearly related to mortality from all stroke (p=0.002), CVD (p=0.005) and total mortality (p=0.001). For stroke subtypes, mortality from haemorrhagic stroke was positively related to Na–K ratio (p=0.024). Similar relationships were observed for men and women. The observed relationships remained significant after adjustment for other risk factors. Quadratic non-linear multivariable-adjusted HRs (95% CI) in the highest quintile versus the lowest quintile of Na–K ratio were 1.42 (1.07 to 1.90) for ischaemic stroke, 1.57 (1.05 to 2.34) for haemorrhagic stroke, 1.43 (1.17 to 1.76) for all stroke, 1.39 (1.20 to 1.61) for CVD and 1.16 (1.06 to 1.27) for all-cause mortality. Conclusions Dietary Na–K ratio assessed by a 3-day weighing dietary record was a significant risk factor for mortality from haemorrhagic stroke, all stroke, CVD and all causes among a Japanese population. PMID:27412107

Landscape of Pleiotropic Proteins Causing Human Disease: Structural and System Biology Insights.

PubMed

Ittisoponpisan, Sirawit; Alhuzimi, Eman; Sternberg, Michael J E; David, Alessia

2017-03-01

Pleiotropy is the phenomenon by which the same gene can result in multiple phenotypes. Pleiotropic proteins are emerging as important contributors to rare and common disorders. Nevertheless, little is known on the mechanisms underlying pleiotropy and the characteristic of pleiotropic proteins. We analyzed disease-causing proteins reported in UniProt and observed that 12% are pleiotropic (variants in the same protein cause more than one disease). Pleiotropic proteins were enriched in deleterious and rare variants, but not in common variants. Pleiotropic proteins were more likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of neoplasms, neurological, and circulatory diseases and congenital malformations, whereas non-pleiotropic proteins in endocrine and metabolic disorders. Pleiotropic proteins were more essential and had a higher number of interacting partners compared with non-pleiotropic proteins. Significantly more pleiotropic than non-pleiotropic proteins contained at least one intrinsically long disordered region (P < 0.001). Deleterious variants occurring in structurally disordered regions were more commonly found in pleiotropic, rather than non-pleiotropic proteins. In conclusion, pleiotropic proteins are an important contributor to human disease. They represent a biologically different class of proteins compared with non-pleiotropic proteins and a better understanding of their characteristics and genetic variants can greatly aid in the interpretation of genetic studies and drug design. © 2016 WILEY PERIODICALS, INC.

Identification of a Novel Mutation in BRD4 that Causes Autosomal Dominant Syndromic Congenital Cataracts Associated with Other Neuro-Skeletal Anomalies

PubMed Central

Jin, Hyun-Seok; Kim, Jeonhyun; Kwak, Woori; Jeong, Hyeonsoo; Lim, Gyu-Bin

2017-01-01

Congenital cataracts can occur as a non-syndromic isolated ocular disease or as a part of genetic syndromes accompanied by a multi-systemic disease. Approximately 50% of all congenital cataract cases have a heterogeneous genetic basis. Here, we describe three generations of a family with an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern and common complex phenotypes, including bilateral congenital cataracts, short stature, macrocephaly, and minor skeletal anomalies. We did not find any chromosomal aberrations or gene copy number abnormalities using conventional genetic tests; accordingly, we conducted whole-exome sequencing (WES) to identify disease-causing genetic alterations in this family. Based on family WES data, we identified a novel BRD4 missense mutation as a candidate causal variant and performed cell-based experiments by ablation of endogenous BRD4 expression in human lens epithelial cells. The protein expression levels of connexin 43, p62, LC3BII, and p53 differed significantly between control cells and cells in which endogenous BRD4 expression was inhibited. We inferred that a BRD4 missense mutation was the likely disease-causing mutation in this family. Our findings may improve the molecular diagnosis of congenital cataracts and support the use of WES to clarify the genetic basis of complex diseases. PMID:28076398

Bluetongue in small ruminants: An opinionated review, with a brief appraisal of the 2014 outbreak of the disease in Greece and the south-east Europe.

PubMed

Kyriakis, C S; Billinis, C; Papadopoulos, E; Vasileiou, N G C; Athanasiou, L V; Fthenakis, G C

2015-12-14

Bluetongue is an arthropod-borne viral disease of ruminants, especially of sheep, caused by Bluetongue virus, which belongs to the genus Orbivirus of the family Reoviridae and is classified into 26 antigenically distinct serotypes. Once thought to be restricted in Africa and parts of the Middle East, bluetongue has now become a concern in sheep-rearing countries around the world. In the past 10 years, severe outbreaks have occurred in Europe with important economic consequences; of these, the 2006-20008 outbreak in Europe was caused by a serotype 8 strain and the 2014 outbreak in Greece and the other countries of south-east Europe was caused by a serotype 4 strain, suggested to be a reassortant strain with genome segments from lineages of serotype 1, 2 and 4. Immunisation campaigns can be implemented for successful control and limiting of the disease. Nevertheless, in both of the above outbreaks, late application of vaccinations led to a wide spread of the disease, which subsequently resulted in significant losses in livestock in the affected regions. In view of that, standardisation of control measures in the future will be beneficial for efficiently limiting outbreaks of the disease. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hemin as a generic and potent protein misfolding inhibitor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Yanqin; Carver, John A.; Ho, Lam H.

2014-11-14

Highlights: • Hemin prevents Aβ42, α-synuclein and RCM-κ-casein forming amyloid fibrils. • Hemin inhibits the β-sheet structure formation of Aβ42. • Hemin reduces the cell toxicity caused by fibrillar Aβ42. • Hemin dissociates partially formed Aβ42 fibrils. • Hemin prevents amorphous aggregation by ADH, catalase and γs-crystallin. - Abstract: Protein misfolding causes serious biological malfunction, resulting in diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and cataract. Molecules which inhibit protein misfolding are a promising avenue to explore as therapeutics for the treatment of these diseases. In the present study, thioflavin T fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy experiments demonstrated that hemin preventsmore » amyloid fibril formation of kappa-casein, amyloid beta peptide and α-synuclein by blocking β-sheet structure assembly which is essential in fibril aggregation. Further, inhibition of fibril formation by hemin significantly reduces the cytotoxicity caused by fibrillar amyloid beta peptide in vitro. Interestingly, hemin degrades partially formed amyloid fibrils and prevents further aggregation to mature fibrils. Light scattering assay results revealed that hemin also prevents protein amorphous aggregation of alcohol dehydrogenase, catalase and γs-crystallin. In summary, hemin is a potent agent which generically stabilises proteins against aggregation, and has potential as a key molecule for the development of therapeutics for protein misfolding diseases.« less

Single Marital Status and Infectious Mortality in Women With Cervical Cancer in the United States.

PubMed

Machida, Hiroko; Eckhardt, Sarah E; Castaneda, Antonio V; Blake, Erin A; Pham, Huyen Q; Roman, Lynda D; Matsuo, Koji

2017-10-01

Unmarried status including single marital status is associated with increased mortality in women bearing malignancy. Infectious disease weights a significant proportion of mortality in patients with malignancy. Here, we examined an association of single marital status and infectious mortality in cervical cancer. This is a retrospective observational study examining 86,555 women with invasive cervical cancer identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program between 1973 and 2013. Characteristics of 18,324 single women were compared with 38,713 married women in multivariable binary logistic regression models. Propensity score matching was performed to examine cumulative risk of all-cause and infectious mortality between the 2 groups. Single marital status was significantly associated with young age, black/Hispanic ethnicity, Western US residents, uninsured status, high-grade tumor, squamous histology, and advanced-stage disease on multivariable analysis (all, P < 0.05). In a prematched model, single marital status was significantly associated with increased cumulative risk of all-cause mortality (5-year rate: 32.9% vs 29.7%, P < 0.001) and infectious mortality (0.5% vs 0.3%, P < 0.001) compared with the married status. After propensity score matching, single marital status remained an independent prognostic factor for increased cumulative risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazards ratio [HR], 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-1.20; P < 0.001) and those of infectious mortality on multivariable analysis (adjusted HR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.27-2.32; P < 0.001). In a sensitivity analysis for stage I disease, single marital status remained significantly increased risk of infectious mortality after propensity score matching (adjusted HR, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.34-3.73; P = 0.002). Single marital status was associated with increased infectious mortality in women with invasive cervical cancer.

The effect of high temperature on cause-specific mortality: A multi-county analysis in China.

PubMed

Ban, Jie; Xu, Dandan; He, Mike Z; Sun, Qinghua; Chen, Chen; Wang, Wentao; Zhu, Pengfei; Li, Tiantian

2017-09-01

Although existing studies have linked high temperature to mortality in a small number of regions, less evidence is available on the variation in the associations between high temperature exposure and cause-specific mortality of multiple regions in China. Our study focused on the use of time series analysis to quantify the association between high temperature and different cause-specific mortalities for susceptible populations for 43 counties in China. Two-stage analyses adopting a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) and a meta-analysis allowed us to obtain county-specific estimates and national-scale pooled estimates of the nonlinear temperature-mortality relationship. We also considered different populations stratified by age and sex, causes of death, absolute and relative temperature patterns, and potential confounding from air pollutants. All of the observed cause-specific mortalities are significantly associated with higher temperature. The estimated effects of high temperature on mortality varied by spatial distribution and temperature patterns. Compared with the 90th percentile temperature, the overall relative risk (RR) at the 99th percentile temperature for non-accidental mortality is 1.105 (95%CI: 1.089, 1.122), for circulatory disease is 1.107 (95%CI: 1.081, 1.133), for respiratory disease is 1.095 (95%CI: 1.050, 1.142), for coronary heart disease is 1.073 (95%CI: 1.047, 1.099), for acute myocardial infarction is 1.072 (95%CI: 1.042, 1.104), and for stroke is 1.095 (95%CI: 1.052, 1.138). Based on our findings, we believe that heat-related health effect in China is a significant issue that requires more attention and allocation of existing resources. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Hospitalization study on a cohort of families applying for tenement houses in Florence (Tuscany Region, Central Italy)].

PubMed

Chellini, Elisabetta; Carreras, Giulia; Baroncini, Oria

2014-01-01

to evaluate the morbidity of a materially deprived population of family members applying for public tenement houses in Florence, Central Italy, in the period 1977-2001. all yearly first hospital admissions concerning 4,773 persons resident in Florence who applied for tenement houses to local public bodies during 1997-2001 were collected. gender specific age-standardized hospitalization ratios (SHR) for all causes and cause-specific hospital admissions during 2001- 2005. The expected cases were calculated using as reference gender, age and cause specific hospitalization rates of Tuscany population for the 2001-2005 period. 2,777 hospital admissions were registered. Statistically significant excesses of standardized hospitalization ratio were observed in both genders for all causes (males: SHR 1.14, 95%CI 1.07-1.20; females: SHR 1.22, 95%CI 1.16-1.28), mental disorders (males: SHR 2.19, 95%CI 1.71- 2.76; females: SHR 1.77, 95%CI 1.35-2.27) and respiratory diseases (males: SHR 1.25, 95%CI 1.05-1.47; females: SHR 1.33, 95%CI 1.09-1.60). Other excesses were observed for endocrine, metabolic and immunity disorders only in males (SHR 1.38, 95%CI 1.04-1.79), and for injuries and poisoning only in females (SHR 1.24, 95%CI 1.03-1.48). Statistical significant deficits were observed for neoplasm and for diseases of circulatory system in both genders, and for diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue in males. the results, consistent with the available evidences on causes of illness in disadvantaged groups, point to the importance of built environment and adequate housing in reducing health inequalities.

Comparing causes of death between formal and informal neighborhoods in urban Africa: evidence from Ouagadougou Health and Demographic Surveillance System

PubMed Central

Soura, Abdramane Bassiahi; Lankoande, Bruno; Millogo, Roch; Bangha, Martin

2014-01-01

Background The probable coexistence of two or more epidemiological profiles in urban Africa is poorly documented. In particular, very few studies have focused on the comparison of cause-specific mortality between two types of neighborhoods that characterize contemporary southern cities: formal neighborhoods, that is, structured or delineated settlements (planned estates) that have full access to public utilities (electricity and water services), and the informal neighborhoods, that is, spontaneous and unplanned peri-urban settlements where people live in slum-like conditions, often with little or no access to public utilities. Objective To compare the causes of death between the formal and informal neighborhoods covered by the Ouagadougou Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems (HDSS). Design The data used come from the INDEPTH pooled dataset which includes the contribution of Ouagadougou HDSS and are compiled for the INDEPTH Network Data repository. The data were collected between 2009 and 2011 using verbal autopsy (VA) questionnaires completed by four fieldworkers well trained in the conduction of VAs. The VA data were then interpreted using the InterVA-4 program (version 4.02) to arrive at the causes of death. Results Communicable diseases are the leading cause of death among children (aged between 29 days and 14 years) in both formal and informal neighborhoods, contributing more than 75% to the mortality rate. Mortality rates from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are very low before age 15 but are the leading causes from age 50, especially in formal neighborhoods. Mortality from injuries is very low, with no significant difference between the two neighborhoods. Conclusions The fact that mortality from NCDs is higher among adults in formal neighborhoods seems consistent with the idea of a correlation between modern life and epidemiological transition. However, NCDs do affect informal neighborhoods as well. They consist mainly of cardiovascular diseases and neoplasms most of which are preventable and/or manageable through a change in lifestyle. A prevention program would certainly reduce the burden of these chronic diseases among adults and the elderly with a significant economic impact for families. PMID:25377335