222 results on '"Bennett CM"'
Search Results
2. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on total, sex- and age-specific all-cause mortality in 20 countries worldwide during 2020: results from the C-MOR project
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Demetriou, CA, Achilleos, S, Quattrocchi, A, Gabel, J, Critselis, E, Constantinou, C, Nicolaou, N, Ambrosio, G, Bennett, CM, Le Meur, N, Critchley, JA, Mortensen, LH, Rodriguez-Llanes, JM, Chong, M, Denissov, G, Klepac, P, Goldsmith, LP, Costa, AJL, Hagen, TP, Chan Sun, M, Huang, Q, Pidmurniak, N, Zucker, I, Cuthbertson, J, Burström, B, Barron, M, Eržen, I, Stracci, F, Calmon, W, Martial, C, Verstiuk, O, Kaufman, Z, Tao, W, Kereselidze, M, Chikhladze, N, Polemitis, A, and Charalambous, A
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: To understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality, this study investigates overall, sex- and age-specific excess all-cause mortality in 20 countries, during 2020. METHODS: Total, sex- and age-specific weekly all-cause mortality for 2015-2020 was collected from national vital statistics databases. Excess mortality for 2020 was calculated by comparing weekly 2020 observed mortality against expected mortality, estimated from historical data (2015-2019) accounting for seasonality, long- and short-term trends. Crude and age-standardized rates were analysed for total and sex-specific mortality. RESULTS: Austria, Brazil, Cyprus, England and Wales, France, Georgia, Israel, Italy, Northern Ireland, Peru, Scotland, Slovenia, Sweden, and the USA displayed substantial excess age-standardized mortality of varying duration during 2020, while Australia, Denmark, Estonia, Mauritius, Norway, and Ukraine did not. In sex-specific analyses, excess mortality was higher in males than females, except for Slovenia (higher in females) and Cyprus (similar in both sexes). Lastly, for most countries substantial excess mortality was only detectable (Austria, Cyprus, Israel, and Slovenia) or was higher (Brazil, England and Wales, France, Georgia, Italy, Northern Ireland, Sweden, Peru and the USA) in the oldest age group investigated. Peru demonstrated substantial excess mortality even in the
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- 2022
3. Random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis reveals no clear link between Staphylococcus epidermidis and acute mastitis
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Cullinane, M, Scofield, L, Murray, GL, Payne, MS, Bennett, CM, Garland, SM, Amir, LH, Cullinane, M, Scofield, L, Murray, GL, Payne, MS, Bennett, CM, Garland, SM, and Amir, LH
- Abstract
Mastitis is commonly experienced by breastfeeding women. While Staphylococcus aureus is usually implicated in infectious mastitis, coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are a possible alternative pathogen. This case-control study examined the role of CoNS in mastitis using isolates cultured from breast milk of 20 women with mastitis and 16 women without mastitis. Gene sequencing determined bacterial species, and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis investigated strain-level variation. The majority of CoNS isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis (182/199; 91%). RAPD analysis identified 33 unique S. epidermidis profiles, with no specific profile associated with mastitis cases.
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- 2022
4. Premature mortality attributable to COVID-19: potential years of life lost in 17 countries around the world, January-August 2020.
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Ugarte, MP, Achilleos, S, Quattrocchi, A, Gabel, J, Kolokotroni, O, Constantinou, C, Nicolaou, N, Rodriguez-Llanes, JM, Huang, Q, Verstiuk, O, Pidmurniak, N, Tao, JW, Burström, B, Klepac, P, Erzen, I, Chong, M, Barron, M, Hagen, TP, Kalmatayeva, Z, Davletov, K, Zucker, I, Kaufman, Z, Kereselidze, M, Kandelaki, L, Le Meur, N, Goldsmith, L, Critchley, JA, Pinilla, MA, Jaramillo, GI, Teixeira, D, Goméz, LF, Lobato, J, Araújo, C, Cuthbertson, J, Bennett, CM, Polemitis, A, Charalambous, A, Demetriou, CA, C-MOR consortium, Ugarte, MP, Achilleos, S, Quattrocchi, A, Gabel, J, Kolokotroni, O, Constantinou, C, Nicolaou, N, Rodriguez-Llanes, JM, Huang, Q, Verstiuk, O, Pidmurniak, N, Tao, JW, Burström, B, Klepac, P, Erzen, I, Chong, M, Barron, M, Hagen, TP, Kalmatayeva, Z, Davletov, K, Zucker, I, Kaufman, Z, Kereselidze, M, Kandelaki, L, Le Meur, N, Goldsmith, L, Critchley, JA, Pinilla, MA, Jaramillo, GI, Teixeira, D, Goméz, LF, Lobato, J, Araújo, C, Cuthbertson, J, Bennett, CM, Polemitis, A, Charalambous, A, Demetriou, CA, and C-MOR consortium
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Understanding the impact of the burden of COVID-19 is key to successfully navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of a larger investigation on COVID-19 mortality impact, this study aims to estimate the Potential Years of Life Lost (PYLL) in 17 countries and territories across the world (Australia, Brazil, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cyprus, France, Georgia, Israel, Kazakhstan, Peru, Norway, England & Wales, Scotland, Slovenia, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United States [USA]). METHODS: Age- and sex-specific COVID-19 death numbers from primary national sources were collected by an international research consortium. The study period was established based on the availability of data from the inception of the pandemic to the end of August 2020. The PYLL for each country were computed using 80 years as the maximum life expectancy. RESULTS: As of August 2020, 442,677 (range: 18-185,083) deaths attributed to COVID-19 were recorded in 17 countries which translated to 4,210,654 (range: 112-1,554,225) PYLL. The average PYLL per death was 8.7 years, with substantial variation ranging from 2.7 years in Australia to 19.3 PYLL in Ukraine. North and South American countries as well as England & Wales, Scotland and Sweden experienced the highest PYLL per 100,000 population; whereas Australia, Slovenia and Georgia experienced the lowest. Overall, males experienced higher PYLL rate and higher PYLL per death than females. In most countries, most of the PYLL were observed for people aged over 60 or 65 years, irrespective of sex. Yet, Brazil, Cape Verde, Colombia, Israel, Peru, Scotland, Ukraine, and the USA concentrated most PYLL in younger age groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlight the role of PYLL as a tool to understand the impact of COVID-19 on demographic groups within and across countries, guiding preventive measures to protect these groups under the ongoing pandemic. Continuous monitoring of PYLL is therefore needed to better understand the burden of COVID-19 in terms of
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- 2022
5. Molecular Epidemiology of Penicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia in Australia and Reliability of Diagnostic Phenotypic Susceptibility Methods to Detect Penicillin Susceptibility.
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Coombs, GW, Yee, NWT, Daley, D, Bennett, CM, Robinson, JO, Stegger, M, Shoby, P, Mowlaboccus, S, Coombs, GW, Yee, NWT, Daley, D, Bennett, CM, Robinson, JO, Stegger, M, Shoby, P, and Mowlaboccus, S
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BACKGROUND: Defined by the emergence of antibiotic resistant strains, Staphylococcus aureus is a priority bacterial species with high antibiotic resistance. However, a rise in the prevalence of penicillin-susceptible S. aureus (PSSA) bloodstream infections has recently been observed worldwide, including in Australia, where the proportion of methicillin-susceptible S. aureus causing bacteremia identified phenotypically as penicillin-susceptible has increased by over 35%, from 17.5% in 2013 to 23.7% in 2020. OBJECTIVES: To determine the population structure of PSSA causing community- and hospital-onset bacteremia in Australia and to evaluate routine phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility methods to reliably confirm penicillin resistance on blaZ-positive S. aureus initially classified as penicillin-susceptible by the Vitek® 2 automated microbiology system. RESULTS: Whole genome sequencing on 470 PSSA collected in the 2020 Australian Group on Antimicrobial Resistance Australian Staphylococcus aureus Sepsis Outcome Programme identified 84 multilocus sequence types (STs), of which 79 (463 isolates) were grouped into 22 clonal complexes (CCs). The dominant CCs included CC5 (31.9%), CC97 (10.2%), CC45 (10.0%), CC15 (8.7%), and CC188 (4.9%). Many of the CCs had multiple STs and spa types and, based on the immune evasion cluster type, isolates within a CC could be classified into different strains harboring a range of virulence and resistance genes. Phylogenetic analyses of the isolates showed most CCs were represented by one clade. The blaZ gene was identified in 45 (9.6%) PSSA. Although multiclonal, approximately 50% of blaZ-positive PSSA were from CC15 and were found to be genetically distant from the blaZ-negative CC15 PSSA. The broth microdilution, Etest® and cefinase, performed poorly; however, when the appearance of the zone edge was considered; as per the EUCAST and CLSI criteria, disc diffusion detected 100% of blaZ-positive PSSA. CONCLUSIONS: In Australia, PSSA bac
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- 2022
6. The Magnitude of NCD Risk Factors in Ethiopia: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Evidence.
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Tesfay, FH, Backholer, K, Zorbas, C, Bowe, SJ, Alston, L, Bennett, CM, Tesfay, FH, Backholer, K, Zorbas, C, Bowe, SJ, Alston, L, and Bennett, CM
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors are the leading contributors to morbidity and mortality globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries including Ethiopia. To date, there has been no synthesis of the literature on the relative prevalence of NCD risk factors in Ethiopia. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of primary studies reporting on the prevalence of NCD risk factors in Ethiopia published in English from 2012 to July 2020. Pre-tested NCD search terms were applied to Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Global Health. Three reviewers screened and appraised the quality of the identified papers. Data extraction was conducted using a pilot tested proforma. Meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 16 and pooled prevalence estimated with associated 95% confidence intervals. Clinically heterogeneous studies that did not fulfil the eligibility criteria for meta-analysis were narratively synthesised. I2 was used to assess statistical heterogeneity. RESULTS: 47 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and contributed 68 NCD risk factor prevalence estimates. Hypertension was the most frequently examined NCD risk factor, with a pooled prevalence of 21% (n = 27 studies). The pooled prevalence percentages for overweight and obesity were 19.2% and 10.3%, respectively (n = 7 studies each), with a combined prevalence of 26.8% (n = 1 study). It was not possible to pool the prevalence of alcohol consumption, smoking, metabolic disorders, or fruit consumption because of heterogeneity across studies. The prevalence of alcohol use, as reported from the included individual studies, ranged from 12.4% to 13.5% (n = 7 studies). More than 90% of participants met the WHO-recommended level of physical activity (n = 5 studies). The prevalence of smoking was highly variable, ranging between 0.8% and 38.6%, as was the prevalence of heavy alcohol drinking (12.4% to 21.1%, n = 6 studies) and metabolic syndrome (4.8% to 9.6
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- 2022
7. Prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence.
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Tesfay, FH, Zorbas, C, Alston, L, Backholer, K, Bowe, SJ, Bennett, CM, Tesfay, FH, Zorbas, C, Alston, L, Backholer, K, Bowe, SJ, and Bennett, CM
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a growing global health challenge disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income settings, including Ethiopia. Currently, the body of evidence describing the burden of NCDs is fragmented, inconsistent, health facility- or institution-based, and out-dated in Ethiopia. We conducted a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis of the prevalence of NCDs in community settings in Ethiopia. REVIEW METHODOLOGY: Community-based quantitative studies published in English between January 1st, 2012, and June 30th, 2022, that reported on the prevalence of NCDs in Ethiopia were included. A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Global Health using pretested search terms related to NCDs was conducted, and data were extracted using a piloted data extraction proforma adapted from the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16. While the pooled prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and undiagnosed (DM) was computed and presented using forest plots, then overall prevalence of NCDs and other various types of NCDs were narratively synthesized. I 2 was used to assess heterogeneity. Studies that did not fulfill the criteria (used similar tool to measure the types of NCDs) for meta-analysis were narratively synthesized. RESULTS: Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Five studies measured the prevalence of NCDs (all NCDs together), ranging from 29 to 35% (prevalence estimates not pooled). The pooled prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) across ten studies was 5% (95% CI: 4-7%). Three studies each reported on the prevalence of undiagnosed DM (pooled prevalence 5%, 95% CI: 4-7%) and pre-DM (pooled prevalence 7%, 95% CI: 3-14%%). In a narrative analysis the prevalence of cardiovascular conditions ranged from 13.4 to 32.2% (n = 3 studies), cancer mortality ranged from 4 to 18% (n = 3 studies) and respiratory conditions ranged from 1 to 18% (n = 3 studies). Some studies have de
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- 2022
8. Excess all-cause mortality and COVID-19-related mortality: a temporal analysis in 22 countries, from January until August 2020.
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Achilleos, S, Quattrocchi, A, Gabel, J, Heraclides, A, Kolokotroni, O, Constantinou, C, Pagola Ugarte, M, Nicolaou, N, Rodriguez-Llanes, JM, Bennett, CM, Bogatyreva, E, Schernhammer, E, Zimmermann, C, Costa, AJL, Lobato, JCP, Fernandes, NM, Semedo-Aguiar, AP, Jaramillo Ramirez, GI, Martin Garzon, OD, Mortensen, LH, Critchley, JA, Goldsmith, LP, Denissov, G, Rüütel, K, Le Meur, N, Kandelaki, L, Tsiklauri, S, O'Donnell, J, Oza, A, Kaufman, Z, Zucker, I, Ambrosio, G, Stracci, F, Hagen, TP, Erzen, I, Klepac, P, Arcos González, P, Fernández Camporro, Á, Burström, B, Pidmurniak, N, Verstiuk, O, Huang, Q, Mehta, NK, Polemitis, A, Charalambous, A, Demetriou, CA, Achilleos, S, Quattrocchi, A, Gabel, J, Heraclides, A, Kolokotroni, O, Constantinou, C, Pagola Ugarte, M, Nicolaou, N, Rodriguez-Llanes, JM, Bennett, CM, Bogatyreva, E, Schernhammer, E, Zimmermann, C, Costa, AJL, Lobato, JCP, Fernandes, NM, Semedo-Aguiar, AP, Jaramillo Ramirez, GI, Martin Garzon, OD, Mortensen, LH, Critchley, JA, Goldsmith, LP, Denissov, G, Rüütel, K, Le Meur, N, Kandelaki, L, Tsiklauri, S, O'Donnell, J, Oza, A, Kaufman, Z, Zucker, I, Ambrosio, G, Stracci, F, Hagen, TP, Erzen, I, Klepac, P, Arcos González, P, Fernández Camporro, Á, Burström, B, Pidmurniak, N, Verstiuk, O, Huang, Q, Mehta, NK, Polemitis, A, Charalambous, A, and Demetriou, CA
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate overall and sex-specific excess all-cause mortality since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic until August 2020 among 22 countries. METHODS: Countries reported weekly or monthly all-cause mortality from January 2015 until the end of June or August 2020. Weekly or monthly COVID-19 deaths were reported for 2020. Excess mortality for 2020 was calculated by comparing weekly or monthly 2020 mortality (observed deaths) against a baseline mortality obtained from 2015-2019 data for the same week or month using two methods: (i) difference in observed mortality rates between 2020 and the 2015-2019 average and (ii) difference between observed and expected 2020 deaths. RESULTS: Brazil, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, the UK (England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland) and the USA demonstrated excess all-cause mortality, whereas Australia, Denmark and Georgia experienced a decrease in all-cause mortality. Israel, Ukraine and Ireland demonstrated sex-specific changes in all-cause mortality. CONCLUSIONS: All-cause mortality up to August 2020 was higher than in previous years in some, but not all, participating countries. Geographical location and seasonality of each country, as well as the prompt application of high-stringency control measures, may explain the observed variability in mortality changes.
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- 2022
9. COVID-19 infection and the broader impacts of the pandemic on healthcare workers
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Smallwood, N, Harrex, W, Rees, M, Willis, K, Bennett, CM, Smallwood, N, Harrex, W, Rees, M, Willis, K, and Bennett, CM
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The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) disease or COVID-19 pandemic is associated with more than 230 million cases and has challenged healthcare systems globally. Many healthcare workers (HCWs) have acquired the infection, often through their workplace, with a significant number dying. The epidemiology of COVID-19 infection in HCWs continues to be explored, with manifold exposure risks identified, leading to COVID-19 being recognised as an occupational disease for HCWs. The physical illness due to COVID-19 in HCWs is similar to the general population, with some HCWs experiencing a long-term illness, which may impact their ability to return to work. HCWs have also been affected by the immense workplace and psychosocial disruption caused by the pandemic. The impacts on the psychological well-being of HCWs globally have been profound, with high prevalence estimates for mental health symptoms, including emotional exhaustion. Globally, governments, healthcare organisations and employers have key responsibilities, including: to be better prepared for crises with comprehensive disaster response management plans, and to protect and preserve the health workforce from the physical and psychological impacts of the pandemic. While prioritising HCWs in vaccine rollouts globally has been critical, managing exposures and outbreaks occurring in healthcare settings remains challenging and continues to lead to substantial disruption to the health workforce. Safeguarding healthcare workforces during crises is critical as we move forward on the new path of 'COVID normal'.
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- 2022
10. Random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis reveals no clear link between Staphylococcus epidermidis and acute mastitis
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Cullinane, Meabh, Scofield, L, Murray, GL, Payne, MS, Bennett, CM, Garland, SM, and Amir, Lisa
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Uncategorized - Abstract
Mastitis is commonly experienced by breastfeeding women. While Staphylococcus aureus is usually implicated in infectious mastitis, coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are a possible alternative pathogen. This case-control study examined the role of CoNS in mastitis using isolates cultured from breast milk of 20 women with mastitis and 16 women without mastitis. Gene sequencing determined bacterial species, and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis investigated strain-level variation. The majority of CoNS isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis (182/199; 91%). RAPD analysis identified 33 unique S. epidermidis profiles, with no specific profile associated with mastitis cases.
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- 2022
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11. Learning to live with COVID-19 in Australia: time for a new approach
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Bennett, CM and Bennett, CM
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The emergence of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 has made Australia's 'COVID-zero' strategy unviable. As signalled by the Australian Government's National plan to transition Australia's national COVID-19 response, we need to plan a pathway forward for life beyond lockdown. However, this plan must be guided by long overdue discussions on our tolerance for serious illness, and hospital and intensive care unit capacity. The modelling that informs the national transition plan remains relevant, even with increases in case numbers, but one crucial thing that does change if cases continue to escalate is the effectiveness of test, trace and isolate models. As we move into suppression mode with higher rates of the population fully vaccinated, we will no longer need to find every case. This is among the many shifts in approach that will shape our transition by early 2022 to living with - and controlling - the disease.
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- 2021
12. PM2.5 Exposure over 12 Months and Respiratory Symptoms in Melbourne
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Bennett, CM, Raven, J, Skoric, B, Powell, J, Simpson, P, Wolfe, R, Walters, EH, and Abramson, MJ
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- 2006
13. Pollen exposure at birth and adolescent lung function, and modification by residential greenness
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Lambert, KA, Lodge, C, Lowe, AJ, Prendergast, LA, Thomas, PS, Bennett, CM, Abramson, MJ, Dharmage, SC, Erbas, B, Lambert, KA, Lodge, C, Lowe, AJ, Prendergast, LA, Thomas, PS, Bennett, CM, Abramson, MJ, Dharmage, SC, and Erbas, B
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Exposure to high levels of pollen in infancy is a risk factor for allergic respiratory diseases in later childhood, but effects on lung function are not fully understood. We aim to examine associations between grass pollen exposure in the first months of life and lung function at 12 and 18 years, and explore potential modification. METHODS: Using the Melbourne Atopy Cohort Study, a birth cohort of children with a family history of allergic diseases, we modeled the association between cumulative grass pollen exposure up to 3 months after birth, on FEV1 , FVC, and FEV1 /FVC ratio at 12 and 18 years. We also assessed modifying effects of residential greenness levels (derived from satellite imagery), asthma, and early life sensitization to ryegrass. RESULTS: Grass pollen exposure in the first 7 days was associated with a reduction in FEV1 (-15.5 mL; 95% CI: -27.6, -3.3 per doubling of pollen count) and FVC (-20.8 mL; -35.4, -6.1) at 12 years, but not at 18 years. Increase in cumulative grass pollen exposure up to 3 months was negatively associated with FVC at 12 and 18. Exposure to high residential greenness modified the association at 18 years. CONCLUSION: Early exposure to grass pollen was associated with decreased lung function in children and adolescents. Targeted interventions for pollen avoidance strategies that take into account local topography could be implemented alongside other clinical interventions such as immunotherapy.
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- 2019
14. Early-life exposure to sibling modifies the relationship between CD14 polymorphisms and allergic sensitization
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Lau, MYZ, Dharmage, SC, Burgess, JA, Win, AK, Lowe, AJ, Lodge, CJ, Perret, J, Hui, J, Thomas, PS, Giles, G, Thompson, BR, Abramson, MJ, Walters, EH, Matheson, MC, Allen, KJ, Benke, G, Dowty, JG, Erbas, B, Feather, IH, Frith, PA, Gurrin, LC, Hamilton, GS, James, AL, Jenkins, MA, Johns, DP, Markos, J, Southey, MC, Wood-Baker, R, Barton, CA, Bennett, CM, Svanes, C, Wjst, M, Real, FG, Russell, MA, Axelrad, CJ, Hill, DJ, Lau, MYZ, Dharmage, SC, Burgess, JA, Win, AK, Lowe, AJ, Lodge, CJ, Perret, J, Hui, J, Thomas, PS, Giles, G, Thompson, BR, Abramson, MJ, Walters, EH, Matheson, MC, Allen, KJ, Benke, G, Dowty, JG, Erbas, B, Feather, IH, Frith, PA, Gurrin, LC, Hamilton, GS, James, AL, Jenkins, MA, Johns, DP, Markos, J, Southey, MC, Wood-Baker, R, Barton, CA, Bennett, CM, Svanes, C, Wjst, M, Real, FG, Russell, MA, Axelrad, CJ, and Hill, DJ
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Markers of microbial exposure are thought to be associated with risk of allergic sensitization; however, the associations are inconsistent and may be related to gene-environment interactions. OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between polymorphisms in the CD14 gene and allergic sensitization and whether sibling exposure, as a marker of microbial exposure, modified this relationship. METHODS: We used data from the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study and the Melbourne Atopy Cohort Study. Two CD14 polymorphisms were genotyped. Allergic sensitization was defined by a positive response to a skin prick test. Sibling exposure was measured as cumulative exposure to siblings before age 6 months, 2 and 4 years. Logistic regression and multi-level mixed-effects logistic regression were used to examine the associations. Effect estimates across the cohorts were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS: CD14 SNPs were not individually associated with allergic sensitization in either cohort. In TAHS, cumulative sibling exposure before age 6 months, 2 and 4 years was each associated with a reduced risk of allergic sensitization at age 45 years. A similar effect was observed in MACS. Meta-analysis across the two cohorts showed consistent evidence of an interaction between cumulative sibling exposure before 6 months and the rs5744455-SNP (P = 0.001) but not with the rs2569190-SNP (P = 0.60). The pooled meta-analysis showed that the odds of sensitization with increasing cumulative exposure to sibling before 6 months of age was 20.9% smaller in those with the rs5744455-C-allele than the T-allele (OR = 0.83 vs 1.05, respectively). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Cumulative sibling exposure reduced the risk of sensitization from childhood to middle age in genetically susceptible individuals.
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- 2019
15. Is Eczema or Sensitisation the First Step of the 'Atopic March' Towards Asthma and Hayfever?
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Lowe, AJ, Hosking, CS, Bennett, CM, Carlin, JB, Abramson, MJ, Hill, DJ, and Dharmage, SC
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- 2006
16. Age at onset and persistence of eczema are related to subsequent risk of asthma and hay fever from birth to 18 years of age
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Lowe, AJ, Angelica, B, Su, J, Lodge, CJ, Hill, DJ, Erbas, B, Bennett, CM, Gurrin, LC, Axelrad, C, Abramson, MJ, Allen, KJ, Dharmage, SC, Lowe, AJ, Angelica, B, Su, J, Lodge, CJ, Hill, DJ, Erbas, B, Bennett, CM, Gurrin, LC, Axelrad, C, Abramson, MJ, Allen, KJ, and Dharmage, SC
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Few studies have simultaneously addressed the importance of age of onset and persistence of eczema for the subsequent development of asthma and hay fever, particularly into early adulthood. METHODS: A high-risk birth cohort was recruited comprising 620 infants, who were then followed up frequently until 2 years of age, annually from age 3 to 7, then at 12 and 18 years, to document any episodes of eczema, current asthma, and hay fever. The generalized estimation equation technique was used to examine asthma and hay fever outcomes at 6 (n = 325), 12 (n = 248) and 18 (n = 240) years, when there was consistency of associations across the follow-ups. RESULTS: Very early-onset persistent (onset <6 months, still present from 2 to 5 years) eczema was related to current asthma (adjusted OR = 3.2 [95% CI = 1.7-6.1]), as was very early-onset remitting eczema (onset <6 months but not present from 2-5 years, OR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.0-7.2) and early-onset persistent eczema (onset from 6-24 months, OR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.2-4.7). Late-onset eczema (commenced from 2-5 years) was associated with increased risk of asthma at 12 years (OR = 3.0, 95% CI=1.1-8.2) but not at age 6 years. Only very early-onset persistent eczema was associated with increased risk of hay fever (aOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.4-4.1). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Eczema which commences in early infancy and persists into toddler years is strongly associated with asthma, and to a lesser extent hay fever, in high-risk children. If these associations are causal, prevention of early-life eczema might reduce the risk of respiratory allergy.
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- 2017
17. Cohort Profile: Melbourne Atopy Cohort study (MACS)
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Lowe, AJ, Lodge, CJ, Allen, KJ, Abramson, MJ, Matheson, MC, Thomas, PS, Barton, CA, Bennett, CM, Erbas, B, Svanes, C, Wjst, M, Real, FG, Perret, JL, Russell, MA, Southey, MC, Hopper, JL, Gurrin, LC, Axelrad, CJ, Hill, DJ, Dharmage, SC, Lowe, AJ, Lodge, CJ, Allen, KJ, Abramson, MJ, Matheson, MC, Thomas, PS, Barton, CA, Bennett, CM, Erbas, B, Svanes, C, Wjst, M, Real, FG, Perret, JL, Russell, MA, Southey, MC, Hopper, JL, Gurrin, LC, Axelrad, CJ, Hill, DJ, and Dharmage, SC
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- 2017
18. A Prescription for Resistance: Management of Staphylococcal Skin Abscesses by General Practitioners in Australia
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Parrott, C, Wood, G, Bogatyreva, E, Coombs, GW, Johnson, PDR, Bennett, CM, Parrott, C, Wood, G, Bogatyreva, E, Coombs, GW, Johnson, PDR, and Bennett, CM
- Abstract
OBJECTIVES: We investigated the management of staphylococcal abscesses (boils) by general practitioners (GPs) in the context of rising antibiotic resistance in community strains of Staphylococcus aureus. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS: We analyzed patient-reported management of 66 cases of uncomplicated skin abscesses from the frequency matched methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) Community-Onset Staphylococcus aureus Household Cohort (COSAHC) study (Melbourne, Australia, 2008-2012). Susceptibilities in all cases were known: 50/66 abscesses were caused by MRSA. In order to investigate GP-reported management of staphylococcal abscesses, we surveyed a random subset of GPs, from the COSAHC study (41), and of GPs (39) who used the same community-based pathology service (December 2011-May 2012). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patient outcomes, antibiotics prescribed, antibiotic resistance profiles of infecting strains, rates of incision and drainage (I&D), and attitudes to ordering microbiological cultures. RESULTS: MRSA was three times more likely to be cultured from an abscess than MSSA. Patient-reported management revealed 100% were prescribed antibiotics and only 60.6% had I&D. Of those 85% who remembered their prescription(s), 81% of MRSA cases and 23% of MSSA cases initially received inactive antibiotics. Repeat GP visits where antibiotics were changed occurred in 45 MRSA and 7 MSSA cases, although at least 33% of subsequent prescriptions were inactive for the MRSA infections. Patients treated with I&D and antibiotics did no better than those treated with only I&D, regardless of the antibiotic activity. In the GP surveys, 89% reported I&D, with or without antibiotics, to be their preferred management. Only 29.9% of GPs would routinely swab abscesses. CONCLUSION: The recommended management of uncomplicated Staphylococcus abscesses is I&D without antibiotics to reduce exposure to unnecessary antibiotics. In our study, I&D was perfo
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- 2016
19. Determinants of mastitis in women in the CASTLE study: a cohort study
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Cullinane, M, Amir, LH, Donath, SM, Garland, SM, Tabrizi, SN, Payne, MS, Bennett, CM, Cullinane, M, Amir, LH, Donath, SM, Garland, SM, Tabrizi, SN, Payne, MS, and Bennett, CM
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Mastitis is an acute, debilitating condition that occurs in approximately 20 % of breastfeeding women who experience a red, painful breast with fever. This paper describes the factors correlated with mastitis and investigates the presence of Staphylococcus aureus in women who participated in the CASTLE (Candida and Staphylococcus Transmission: Longitudinal Evaluation) study. The CASTLE study was a prospective cohort study which recruited nulliparous women in late pregnancy in two maternity hospitals in Melbourne, Australia in 2009-2011. METHODS: Women completed questionnaires at recruitment and six time-points in the first eight weeks postpartum. Postpartum questionnaires asked about incidences of mastitis, nipple damage, milk supply, expressing practices and breastfeeding problems. Nasal and nipple swabs were collected from mothers and babies, as well as breast milk samples. All samples were cultured for S. aureus. "Time at risk" of mastitis was defined as days between birth and first occurrence of mastitis (for women who developed mastitis) and days between birth and the last study time-point (for women who did not develop mastitis). Risk factors for incidence of mastitis occurring during the time at risk (Incident Rate Ratios [IRR]) were investigated using a discrete version of the multivariable proportional hazards regression model. RESULTS: Twenty percent (70/346) of participants developed mastitis. Women had an increased risk of developing mastitis if they reported nipple damage (IRR 2.17, 95 % CI 1.21, 3.91), over-supply of breast milk (IRR 2.60, 95 % CI 1.58, 4.29), nipple shield use (IRR 2.93, 95 % CI 1.72, 5.01) or expressing several times a day (IRR 1.64, 95 % CI 1.01, 2.68). The presence of S. aureus on the nipple (IRR 1.72, 95 % CI 1.04, 2.85) or in milk (IRR 1.78, 95 % CI 1.08, 2.92) also increased the risk of developing mastitis. CONCLUSIONS: Nipple damage, over-supply of breast milk, use of nipple shields and the presence of S. aureus on
- Published
- 2015
20. Challenges of diabetes prevention in the real world: results and lessons from the Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study
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Dunbar, JA, Hernan, AL, Janus, ED, Vartiainen, E, Laatikainen, T, Versace, VL, Reynolds, J, Best, JD, Skinner, TC, O'Reilly, SL, Mc Namara, KP, Stewart, E, Coates, M, Bennett, CM, Carter, R, Dunbar, JA, Hernan, AL, Janus, ED, Vartiainen, E, Laatikainen, T, Versace, VL, Reynolds, J, Best, JD, Skinner, TC, O'Reilly, SL, Mc Namara, KP, Stewart, E, Coates, M, Bennett, CM, and Carter, R
- Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To assess effectiveness and implementability of the public health programme Life! Taking action on diabetes in Australian people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study (MDPS) was a unique study assessing effectiveness of Life! that used a randomized controlled trial design. Intervention participants with AUSDRISK score ≥15 received 1 individual and 5 structured 90 min group sessions. Controls received usual care. Outcome measures were obtained for all participants at baseline and 12 months and, additionally, for intervention participants at 3 months. Per protocol set (PPS) and intention to treat (ITT) analyses were performed. RESULTS: PPS analyses were considered more informative from our study. In PPS analyses, intervention participants significantly improved in weight (-1.13 kg, p=0.016), waist circumference (-1.35 cm, p=0.044), systolic (-5.2 mm Hg, p=0.028) and diastolic blood pressure (-3.2 mm Hg, p=0.030) compared with controls. Based on observed weight change, estimated risk of developing diabetes reduced by 9.6% in the intervention and increased by 3.3% in control participants. Absolute 5-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduced significantly for intervention participants by 0.97 percentage points from 9.35% (10.4% relative risk reduction). In control participants, the risk increased by 0.11 percentage points (1.3% relative risk increase). The net effect for the change in CVD risk was -1.08 percentage points of absolute risk (p=0.013). CONCLUSIONS: MDPS effectively reduced the risk of diabetes and CVD, but the intervention effect on weight and waist reduction was modest due to the challenges in recruiting high-risk individuals and the abbreviated intervention.
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- 2015
21. Moving university campuses tobacco-free: collective responsibility and collaboration the key to a healthier Victoria
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Bennett,CM, Rechter,J, Bennett,CM, and Rechter,J
- Published
- 2014
22. Australian Enterococcal Sepsis Outcome Programme, 2011
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Coombs,GW, Pearson,JC, Le,T, Daly,DA, Robinson,JO, Gottlieb,T, Howden,BP, Johnson,PD, Bennett,CM, Stinear,TP, Turnidge,JD, Coombs,GW, Pearson,JC, Le,T, Daly,DA, Robinson,JO, Gottlieb,T, Howden,BP, Johnson,PD, Bennett,CM, Stinear,TP, and Turnidge,JD
- Abstract
From 1 January to 31 December 2011, 29 institutions around Australia participated in the Australian Enterococcal Sepsis Outcome Programme (AESOP). The aim of AESOP 2011 was to determine the proportion of enterococcal bacteraemia isolates in Australia that are antimicrobial resistant, with particular emphasis on susceptibility to ampicillin and the glycopeptides, and to characterise the molecular epidemiology of the Enterococcus faecalis and E. faecium isolates. Of the 1,079 unique episodes of bacteraemia investigated, 95.8% were caused by either E. faecalis (61.0%) or E. faecium (34.8%). Ampicillin resistance was detected in 90.4% of E. faecium but not detected in E. faecalis. Using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute breakpoints (CLSI), vancomycin non-susceptibility was reported in 0.6% and 31.4% of E. faecalis and E. faecium respectively and was predominately due to the acquisition of the vanB operon. Approximately 1 in 6 vanB E. faecium isolates however, had an minimum inhibitory concentration at or below the CLSI vancomycin susceptible breakpoint of ≤ 4 mg/L. Overall, 37% of E. faecium harboured vanA or vanB genes. Although molecular typing identified 126 E. faecalis pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pulsotypes, more than 50% belonged to 2 pulsotypes that were isolated across Australia. E. faecium consisted of 73 PFGE pulsotypes from which 43 multilocus sequence types were identified. Almost 90% of the E. faecium were identified as clonal complex 17 clones, of which approximately half were characterised as sequence type 203, which was isolated Australia-wide. In conclusion, the AESOP 2011 has shown that although polyclonal, enterococcal bacteraemias in Australia are frequently caused by ampicillin-resistant vanB E. faecium.
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- 2014
23. Molecular epidemiology of enterococcal bacteremia in Australia
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Coombs, GW, Pearson, JC, Dale, DA, Le, T, Robinson, OJ, Gottlieb, T, Howden, BP, Johnson, PD, Bennett, CM, Stinear, TP, Turnidge, JD, Coombs, GW, Pearson, JC, Dale, DA, Le, T, Robinson, OJ, Gottlieb, T, Howden, BP, Johnson, PD, Bennett, CM, Stinear, TP, and Turnidge, JD
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- 2014
24. The Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study (MDPS): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
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Davis-Lameloise, N, Hernan, A, Janus, ED, Stewart, E, Carter, R, Bennett, CM, O'Reilly, S, Philpot, B, Vartiainen, E, Dunbar, JA, Davis-Lameloise, N, Hernan, A, Janus, ED, Stewart, E, Carter, R, Bennett, CM, O'Reilly, S, Philpot, B, Vartiainen, E, and Dunbar, JA
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Worldwide, type 2 diabetes (T2DM) prevalence has more than doubled over two decades. In Australia, diabetes is the second highest contributor to the burden of disease. Lifestyle modification programs comprising diet changes, weight loss and moderate physical activity, have been proven to reduce the incidence of T2DM in high risk individuals.As part of the Council of Australia Governments, the State of Victoria committed to develop and support the diabetes prevention program 'Life! Taking action on diabetes' (Life!) which has direct lineage from effective clinical and implementation trials from Finland and Australia. The Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study (MDPS) has been set up to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a specific version of the Life! program. METHODS/DESIGN: We intend to recruit 796 participants for this open randomized clinical trial; 398 will be allocated to the intervention arm and 398 to the usual care arm. Several methods of recruitment will be used in order to maximize the number of participants. Individuals aged 50 to 75 years will be screened with a risk tool (AUSDRISK) to detect those at high risk of developing T2DM. Those with existing diabetes will be excluded. Intervention participants will undergo anthropometric and laboratory tests, and comprehensive surveys at baseline, following the fourth group session (approximately three months after the commencement of the intervention) and 12 months after commencement of the intervention, while control participants will undergo testing at baseline and 12 months only.The intervention consists of an initial individual session followed by a series of five structured-group sessions. The first four group sessions will be carried out at two week intervals and the fifth session will occur eight months after the first group session. The intervention is based on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) model and sessions will empower and enable the participants to follow the fi
- Published
- 2013
25. Does Candida and/or Staphylococcus play a role in nipple and breast pain in lactation? A cohort study in Melbourne, Australia
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Amir, LH, Donath, SM, Garland, SM, Tabrizi, SN, Bennett, CM, Cullinane, M, Payne, MS, Amir, LH, Donath, SM, Garland, SM, Tabrizi, SN, Bennett, CM, Cullinane, M, and Payne, MS
- Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To investigate Candida species and Staphylococcus aureus and the development of 'nipple and breast thrush' among breastfeeding women. DESIGN: Prospective longitudinal cohort study. SETTING: Two hospitals in Melbourne, Australia (one public, one private) with follow-up in the community. PARTICIPANTS: 360 nulliparous women recruited at ≥36 weeks' gestation from November 2009 to June 2011. Participants were followed up six times: in hospital, at home weekly until 4 weeks postpartum and by telephone at 8 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Case definition 'nipple and breast thrush': burning nipple pain and breast pain (not related to mastitis); detection of Candida spp (using culture and PCR) in the mother's vagina, nipple or breast milk or in the baby's mouth; detection of S aureus in the mother's nipple or breast milk. RESULTS: Women with the case definition of nipple/breast thrush were more likely to have Candida spp in nipple/breast milk/baby oral samples (54%) compared to other women (36%, p=0.014). S aureus was common in nipple/breast milk/baby samples of women with these symptoms as well as women without these symptoms (82% vs 79%) (p=0.597). Time-to-event analysis examined predictors of nipple/breast thrush up to and including the time of data collection. Candida in nipple/breast milk/baby predicted incidence of the case definition (rate ratio (RR) 1.87 (95% CI 1.10 to 3.16, p=0.018). We do not have evidence that S aureus colonisation was a predictor of these symptoms (RR 1.53, 95% CI 0.88 to 2.64, p=0.13). Nipple damage was also a predictor of these symptoms, RR 2.30 (95% CI 1.19 to 4.43, p=0.012). In the multivariate model, with all three predictors, the RRs were very similar to the univariate RRs. This indicates that Candida and nipple damage are independent predictors of our case definition.
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- 2013
26. Scaling-up from an implementation trial to state-wide coverage: results from the preliminary Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study
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Janus, ED, Best, JD, Davis-Lameloise, N, Philpot, B, Hernan, A, Bennett, CM, O'Reilly, S, Carter, R, Vartiainen, E, Dunbar, JA, Janus, ED, Best, JD, Davis-Lameloise, N, Philpot, B, Hernan, A, Bennett, CM, O'Reilly, S, Carter, R, Vartiainen, E, and Dunbar, JA
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: The successful Greater Green Triangle Diabetes Prevention Program (GGT DPP), a small implementation trial, has been scaled-up to the Victorian state-wide 'Life!' programme with over 10,000 individuals enrolled. The Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study (MDPS) is an evaluation of the translation from the GGT DPP to the Life! programme. We report results from the preliminary phase (pMDPS) of this evaluation. METHODS: The pMDPS is a randomised controlled trial with 92 individuals aged 50 to 75 at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes randomised to Life! or usual care. Intervention consisted of six structured 90-minute group sessions: five fortnightly sessions and the final session at 8 months. Participants underwent anthropometric and laboratory tests at baseline and 12 months, and provided self-reported psychosocial, dietary, and physical activity measures. Intervention group participants additionally underwent these tests at 3 months. Paired t tests were used to analyse within-group changes over time. Chi-square tests were used to analyse differences between groups in goals met at 12 months. Differences between groups for changes over time were tested with generalised estimating equations and analysis of covariance. RESULTS: Intervention participants significantly improved at 12 months in mean body mass index (-0.98 kg/m(2), standard error (SE) = 0.26), weight (-2.65 kg, SE = 0.72), waist circumference (-7.45 cm, SE = 1.15), and systolic blood pressure (-3.18 mmHg, SE = 1.26), increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (0.07 mmol/l, SE = 0.03), reduced energy from total (-2.00%, SE = 0.78) and saturated fat (-1.54%, SE = 0.41), and increased fibre intake (1.98 g/1,000 kcal energy, SE = 0.47). In controls, oral glucose at 2 hours deteriorated (0.59 mmol/l, SE = 0.27). Only waist circumference reduced significantly (-4.02 cm, SE = 0.95).Intervention participants significantly outperformed controls over 12 months for body mass index and fibre intake. Aft
- Published
- 2012
27. Implementation salvage experiences from the Melbourne diabetes prevention study
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Dunbar, J, Hernan, A, Janus, E, Davis-Lameloise, N, Asproloupos, D, O'Reilly, S, Timoshanko, A, Stewart, E, Bennett, CM, Johnson, G, Carter, R, Dunbar, J, Hernan, A, Janus, E, Davis-Lameloise, N, Asproloupos, D, O'Reilly, S, Timoshanko, A, Stewart, E, Bennett, CM, Johnson, G, and Carter, R
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Many public health interventions based on apparently sound evidence from randomised controlled trials encounter difficulties when being scaled up within health systems. Even under the best of circumstances, implementation is exceedingly difficult. In this paper we will describe the implementation salvage experiences from the Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study, which is a randomised controlled trial of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness nested in the state-wide Life! Taking Action on Diabetes program in Victoria, Australia. DISCUSSION: The Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study sits within an evolving larger scale implementation project, the Life! program. Changes that occurred during the roll-out of that program had a direct impact on the process of conducting this trial. The issues and methods of recovery the study team encountered were conceptualised using an implementation salvage strategies framework. The specific issues the study team came across included continuity of the state funding for Life! program and structural changes to the Life! program which consisted of adjustments to eligibility criteria, referral processes, structure and content, as well as alternative program delivery for different population groups. Staff turnover, recruitment problems, setting and venue concerns, availability of potential participants and participant characteristics were also identified as evaluation roadblocks. Each issue and corresponding salvage strategy is presented. SUMMARY: The experiences of conducting such a novel trial as the preliminary Melbourne Diabetes Prevention Study have been invaluable. The lessons learnt and knowledge gained will inform the future execution of this trial in the coming years. We anticipate that these results will also be beneficial to other researchers conducting similar trials in the public health field. We recommend that researchers openly share their experiences, barriers and challenges when conducting randomised controlled
- Published
- 2012
28. The role of micro-organisms (Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans) in the pathogenesis of breast pain and infection in lactating women: study protocol
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Amir, LH, Cullinane, M, Garland, SM, Tabrizi, SN, Donath, SM, Bennett, CM, Cooklin, AR, Fisher, JRW, Payne, MS, Amir, LH, Cullinane, M, Garland, SM, Tabrizi, SN, Donath, SM, Bennett, CM, Cooklin, AR, Fisher, JRW, and Payne, MS
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: The CASTLE (Candida and Staphylococcus Transmission: Longitudinal Evaluation) study will investigate the micro-organisms involved in the development of mastitis and "breast thrush" among breastfeeding women. To date, the organism(s) associated with the development of breast thrush have not been identified. The CASTLE study will also investigate the impact of physical health problems and breastfeeding problems on maternal psychological health in the early postpartum period. METHODS/DESIGN: The CASTLE study is a longitudinal descriptive study designed to investigate the role of Staphylococcus spp (species) and Candida spp in breast pain and infection among lactating women, and to describe the transmission dynamics of S. aureus and Candida spp between mother and infant. The relationship between breastfeeding and postpartum health problems as well as maternal psychological well-being is also being investigated. A prospective cohort of four hundred nulliparous women who are at least thirty six weeks gestation pregnant are being recruited from two hospitals in Melbourne, Australia (November 2009 to June 2011). At recruitment, nasal, nipple (both breasts) and vaginal swabs are taken and participants complete a questionnaire asking about previous known staphylococcal and candidal infections. Following the birth, participants are followed-up six times: in hospital and then at home weekly until four weeks postpartum. Participants complete a questionnaire at each time points to collect information about breastfeeding problems and postpartum health problems. Nasal and nipple swabs and breast milk samples are collected from the mother. Oral and nasal swabs are collected from the baby. A telephone interview is conducted at eight weeks postpartum to collect information about postpartum health problems and breastfeeding problems, such as mastitis and nipple and breast pain. DISCUSSION: This study is the first longitudinal study of the role of both staphylococcal and can
- Published
- 2011
29. Inequalities in Care-seeking for Febrile Illness of Under-five Children in Urban Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Najnin, N, Bennett, CM, Luby, SP, Najnin, N, Bennett, CM, and Luby, SP
- Abstract
Fever is an easily-recognizable primary sign for many serious childhood infections. In Bangladesh, 31% of children aged less than five years (under-five children) die from serious infections, excluding confirmed acute respiratory infections or diarrhoea. Understanding healthcare-seeking behaviour for children with fever could provide insights on how to reduce this high rate of mortality. Data from a cross-sectional survey in the catchment areas of two tertiary-level paediatric hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh, were analyzed to identify the factors associated with the uptake of services from trained healthcare providers for under-five children with reported febrile illness. Health and demographic data were collected in a larger study of 7,865 children using structured questionnaires. Data were selected from 1,290 of these under-five children who were taken to any healthcare provider for febrile illness within two months preceding the date of visit by the study team. Certified doctors were categorized as 'trained', and other healthcare providers were categorized as 'untrained'. Healthcare-seeking behaviours were analyzed in relation to these groups. A wealth index was constructed using principal component analysis to classify the households into socioeconomic groups. The odds ratios for factors associated with healthcare-seeking behaviours were estimated using logistic regression with adjustment for clustering. Forty-one percent of caregivers (n=529) did not seek healthcare from trained healthcare providers. Children from the highest wealth quintile were significantly more likely [odds ratio (OR)=5.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.4-9.2] to be taken to trained healthcare providers compared to the poorest group. Young infants were more likely to be taken to trained healthcare providers compared to the age-group of 4-<5 years (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.4). Male children were also more likely to be taken to trained healthcare providers (OR=1.5, 95% CI 1.2-1.9) as were children
- Published
- 2011
30. Paving Pathways: shaping the Public Health workforce through tertiary education.
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Bennett, CM, Lilley, K, Yeatman, H, Parker, E, Geelhoed, E, Hanna, EG, Robinson, P, Bennett, CM, Lilley, K, Yeatman, H, Parker, E, Geelhoed, E, Hanna, EG, and Robinson, P
- Abstract
Public health educational pathways in Australia have traditionally been the province of Universities, with the Master of Public Health (MPH) recognised as the flagship professional entry program. Public health education also occurs within the fellowship training of the Faculty of Public Health Medicine, but within Australia this remains confined to medical graduates. In recent years, however, we have seen a proliferation of undergraduate degrees as well as an increasing public health presence in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector.Following the 2007 Australian Federal election, the new Labour government brought with it a refreshing commitment to a more inclusive and strategic style of government. An important example of this was the 2020 visioning process that identified key issues of public health concern, including an acknowledgment that it was unacceptable to allocate less than 2% of the health budget towards disease prevention. This led to the recommendation for the establishment of a national preventive health agency (Australia: the healthiest country by 2020 National Preventative Health Strategy, Prepared by the Preventative Health Taskforce 2009).The focus on disease prevention places a spotlight on the workforce that will be required to deliver the new investment in health prevention, and also on the role of public health education in developing and upskilling the workforce. It is therefore timely to reflect on trends, challenges and opportunities from a tertiary sector perspective. Is it more desirable to focus education efforts on selected lead issues such as the "obesity epidemic", climate change, Indigenous health and so on, or on the underlying theory and skills that build a flexible workforce capable of responding to a range of health challenges? Or should we aspire to both?This paper presents some of the key discussion points from 2008 - 2009 of the Public Health Educational Pathways workshops and working group of the Australian Network
- Published
- 2010
31. The epidemiology workforce: are we planning for the future?
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Rumbold, AR, Bennett, CM, Australasian Epidemiological Association Epidemiology Workforce Working Group, Rumbold, AR, Bennett, CM, and Australasian Epidemiological Association Epidemiology Workforce Working Group
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Epidemiology has a central role in public health practice, education and research, and is arguably the only discipline unique to public health. A strong perception exists among epidemiologists in Australia that there is a substantial shortage in epidemiological capacity within the health workforce and health research, and that there are few graduates with sufficient high-level epidemiological training to fill the educational and leadership roles that will be essential to building this capacity. It was this concern that led the Australasian Epidemiological Association (AEA)--the peak professional body for epidemiologists in Australia and New Zealand--to convene a working group in 2007 to assess and address these concerns. This article summarises the key training challenges and opportunities discussed within this group, and the larger organisation, with the intention of stimulating greater public debate of these issues.
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- 2009
32. Undiagnosed and potentially lethal parasite infections among immigrants and refugees in Australia
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Caruana, SR, Kelly, HA, Ngeow, JYY, Ryan, NJ, Bennett, CM, Chea, L, Nuon, S, Bak, N, Skull, SA, Biggs, B-A, Caruana, SR, Kelly, HA, Ngeow, JYY, Ryan, NJ, Bennett, CM, Chea, L, Nuon, S, Bak, N, Skull, SA, and Biggs, B-A
- Abstract
Intestinal parasite infections are a major cause of ill health in many resource-poor countries. This study compares the types and rates of these infections and their risk factors in recently arrived and long-term immigrants in Australia. Cross-sectional surveys of 127 East African and 234 Cambodian immigrants and refugees were undertaken in 2000 and 2002, respectively, to assess the burden of intestinal parasites and collect demographic information. Serum samples were assessed for eosinophilia and Strongyloides stercoralis and Schistosoma antibodies, and feces examined for ova, cysts, and parasites. Intestinal parasites were identified in 77/117 fecal samples from East African and in 25/204 samples collected from Cambodian participants. Eleven percent (14/124) of East Africans and 42% (97/230) of Cambodians had positive or equivocal serology for S stercoralis. Schistosoma serology was positive or equivocal in 15% (19/124) of East African participants. Potentially serious intestinal parasite infections are common among recent and longer term immigrants despite multiple visits to health care providers. Immigrants and refugees from high-risk countries would benefit from comprehensive health checks soon after resettlement.
- Published
- 2006
33. Fresh garlic: a possible vehicle for Salmonella Virchow
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Bennett, CM, Dalton, C, Beers-Deeble, M, Milazzo, A, Kraa, E, Davos, D, Puech, M, Tan, A, Heuzenroeder, MW, Bennett, CM, Dalton, C, Beers-Deeble, M, Milazzo, A, Kraa, E, Davos, D, Puech, M, Tan, A, and Heuzenroeder, MW
- Abstract
A sustained increase in Salmonella enterica serovar Virchow notifications in South Eastern Australia between September 1997 and May 1998 instigated a case-control study and environmental investigations. Cases were defined as having locally acquired culture-confirmed S. Virchow phage-type 8 infection and diarrhoeal disease. Matched controls were selected by progressive digit dialling based on cases' telephone numbers. An exposure and food history questionnaire was administered by telephone. Phage typing and pulse field gel electrophoresis were performed on case and environmental isolates. Thirty-two notifications of S. Virchow infection met the case definition, 37% reported bloody diarrhoea and S. Virchow was isolated from blood in 13% of cases. Twelve patients were admitted to hospital and one died. Fresh garlic (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.3-12.8) and semi-dried tomatoes (OR 12.6, 95% CI 1.5-103.1) were associated with these cases. The associations remained significant after adjusting for sex and age. S. Virchow (PT 8) was cultured from two brands of semi-dried tomatoes associated with cases in two different states. We provide sufficient evidence for semi-dried tomatoes and fresh garlic to be considered as potential risk foods in future Salmonella outbreak investigations.
- Published
- 2003
34. Neural correlates of interspecies perspective taking in the post-mortem Atlantic Salmon: an argument for multiple comparisons correction
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Bennett, CM, primary, Miller, MB, additional, and Wolford, GL, additional
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- 2009
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35. The processing of internally-generated interoceptive sensation
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Bennett, CM, primary and Baird, AA, additional
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- 2009
- Full Text
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36. Inequalities in care-seeking for febrile illness of under-five children in urban Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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Najnin N, Bennett CM, Luby SP, Najnin, Nusrat, Bennett, Catherine M, and Luby, Stephen P
- Abstract
Fever is an easily-recognizable primary sign for many serious childhood infections. In Bangladesh, 31% of children aged less than five years (under-five children) die from serious infections, excluding confirmed acute respiratory infections or diarrhoea. Understanding healthcare-seeking behaviour for children with fever could provide insights on how to reduce this high rate of mortality. Data from a cross-sectional survey in the catchment areas of two tertiary-level paediatric hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh, were analyzed to identify the factors associated with the uptake of services from trained healthcare providers for under-five children with reported febrile illness. Health and demographic data were collected in a larger study of 7,865 children using structured questionnaires. Data were selected from 1,290 of these under-five children who were taken to any healthcare provider for febrile illness within two months preceding the date of visit by the study team. Certified doctors were categorized as 'trained', and other healthcare providers were categorized as 'untrained'. Healthcare-seeking behaviours were analyzed in relation to these groups. A wealth index was constructed using principal component analysis to classify the households into socioeconomic groups. The odds ratios for factors associated with healthcare-seeking behaviours were estimated using logistic regression with adjustment for clustering. Forty-one percent of caregivers (n=529) did not seek healthcare from trained healthcare providers. Children from the highest wealth quintile were significantly more likely [odds ratio (OR)=5.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.4-9.2] to be taken to trained healthcare providers compared to the poorest group. Young infants were more likely to be taken to trained healthcare providers compared to the age-group of 4-<5 years (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.4). Male children were also more likely to be taken to trained healthcare providers (OR=1.5, 95% CI 1.2-1.9) as were children with decreased level of consciousness (OR=5.3, 95% CI 2.0-14.2). Disparities across socioeconomic groups and gender persisted in seeking quality healthcare for under-five children with febrile illness in urban Dhaka. Girls from poor families were less likely to access qualified medical care. To reduce child mortality in the short term, health education and behaviour-change communication interventions should target low-income caregivers to improve their recognition of danger-signs; reducing societal inequalities remains an important long-term goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
37. Sickle cell disease caused by Hb S/Québec-CHORI: treatment with hydroxyurea and response.
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Tubman VN, Bennett CM, Luo H, Chui DHK, and Heeney MM
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- 2007
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38. HbA(1c) as a screening tool for detection of Type 2 diabetes: a systematic review.
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Bennett CM, Guo M, and Dharmage SC
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- 2007
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39. Fresh garlic: a possible vehicle for Salmonella Virchow.
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Bennett CM, Dalton C, Beers-Deeble M, Milazzo A, Kraa E, Davos D, Puech M, Tan A, Heuzenroeder MW, Bennett, C M, Dalton, C, Beers-Deeble, M, Milazzo, A, Kraa, E, Davos, D, Puech, M, Tan, A, and Heuzenroeder, M W
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- 2003
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40. Is restricting tobacco sales the answer to adolescent smoking?
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Staff M, Bennett CM, Angel P, Staff, M, Bennett, C M, and Angel, P
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Enforcement of legislation restricting retail access to tobacco is increasingly relied on to reduce adolescent smoking rates. In 1996, health authorities in the Northern Sydney Health Area began monitoring tobacco retailer compliance (PROOF program) with staged purchase attempts by adolescents below the legal age (18 years). Repeat cross-sectional surveys before (1995) and after (2000) the introduction of PROOF monitored changes in adolescent smoking behaviour. Students aged 12 to 17 years from 11 Northern Sydney metropolitan public secondary schools were surveyed for self-reported smoking and tobacco purchasing behavior in 1995 (n = 5,206) and 2000 (n = 4,120). Between 1996 and 2000, 545 retailer compliance checks found 34% unlawfully sold cigarettes to minors and 28% of these repeated the offence. Nine prosecutions resulted. Modelling revealed a significant association between the intervention and never having smoked (adjusted OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.01-1.33) although there was no significant association with being a current smoker. The odds of being a smoker were greater for students from coeducational schools, with this effect being modified by gender. There was no reduction in adolescent smoking with active enforcement of tobacco access laws despite an apparent increase in students who reported never to have smoked. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2003
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41. Roentgen Oration
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Bennett Cm
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Vocational Education ,Medical education ,Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander ,Economics ,business.industry ,Roentgen ,Acculturation ,Education ,Cultural adjustment ,symbols.namesake ,Vocational education ,symbols ,Humans ,Medicine ,Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and imaging ,business ,New Zealand - Published
- 1968
42. Glomerular-tubular balance for bicarbonate in the dog
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Bennett, CM, primary, Springberg, PD, additional, and Falkinburg, NR, additional
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- 1975
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43. Slow release dietary carbohydrate improves second meal tolerance
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Jenkins, DJ, primary, Wolever, TM, additional, Taylor, RH, additional, Griffiths, C, additional, Krzeminska, K, additional, Lawrie, JA, additional, Bennett, CM, additional, Goff, DV, additional, Sarson, DL, additional, and Bloom, SR, additional
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- 1982
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44. Countercurrent multiplication by the thin loops of Henle
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Jamison, RL, primary, Bennett, CM, additional, and Berliner, RW, additional
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- 1967
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45. Pulmonary Vessels in SIDS
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Bennett Cm
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medicine.medical_specialty ,chemistry.chemical_compound ,Endocrinology ,chemistry ,business.industry ,Internal medicine ,Bicarbonate ,medicine ,Metabolic acidosis ,General Medicine ,medicine.disease ,business - Published
- 1975
46. BMI trajectories from infancy to 18 years and mental health in emerging adulthood.
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Gallagher C, Lambert K, Pirkis J, Abramson MJ, Barton C, Lodge CJ, Perret JL, Idrose NS, Bennett CM, Waidyatillake NT, Sundararajan V, Walters EH, Dharmage SC, and Erbas B
- Abstract
Background: Studies exploring early life-course BMI trajectories and subsequent mental health outcomes are limited but may provide important insights for early intervention. We investigated associations between BMI trajectories from 0 to 18 years and mental health outcomes in emerging adulthood., Methods: Data were obtained from 434 participants in the Melbourne Atopy Cohort Study (MACS). Anthropometric data were collected across 26 timepoints from infancy to age 25 and group-based trajectory modelling used to develop BMI trajectories from 0.1 to 18 years. Moderate-to-severe psychological distress (MSPD) and likely depression were assessed at age 18 and 25 years. Associations between BMI trajectories and mental health at 25 years and change in mental health between 18 and 25 years were estimated using logistic regression. History of asthma, hay fever or eczema were independently examined as potential effect modifiers., Results: Five BMI trajectories were identified from 1 month to 18 years. When compared to the stable average BMI trajectory, we found increased risk of MSPD (OR = 2.97; 95%CI: 1.09,8.06) and likely depression (3.56; 1.39,9.12) at age 25 in the average increasing to high trajectory. This group also had a greater likelihood of new-onset depression (4.82; 1.54,15.0) from 18 to 25 years of age., Limitations: MACS participants are not representative of the general population and mental health data was not available before 18 years of age., Conclusion: Excessive weight gain across the childhood transition was associated with poorer mental health in emerging adulthood, highlighting the importance of monitoring growth to allow for early identification and stratification of individuals are risk of poor mental health., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier B.V.)
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- 2024
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47. The timing of local SARS-Cov-2 outbreaks and vaccination coverage during the Delta wave in Melbourne.
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Gupta M, Bogatyreva K, Pienaar K, Vally H, and Bennett CM
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- Humans, Female, Male, Middle Aged, Adult, Aged, Australia epidemiology, COVID-19 Vaccines administration & dosage, Vaccination statistics & numerical data, Longitudinal Studies, Adolescent, Victoria epidemiology, Young Adult, Local Government, Child, COVID-19 prevention & control, COVID-19 epidemiology, Vaccination Coverage statistics & numerical data, SARS-CoV-2, Disease Outbreaks prevention & control
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Objective: This article presents a longitudinal analysis of COVID-19 infection and vaccination coverage in Melbourne metropolitan local government areas (LGAs) during the 2021 Delta wave., Methods: COVID-19 vaccination and infection data from 12 July to 27 November 2021 were sourced from government websites. Summary statistics and associated 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were compared by LGA ranked according to socioeconomic status: total "burden" (total infections per thousand), "peak" (highest weekly infection rate), "lag" (interval between peak and 70% double vaccination)., Results: LGAs in the bottom five deciles for social advantage experienced higher infection rates (39.0 per thousand [95% CI: 38.5, 39.5] vs. 14.8 [14.7, 14.9]), and had lower two-dose vaccination coverage (23.8% [23.6, 23.9] vs. 32.7% [32.6, 32.7]) compared with LGAs in the top five deciles. LGAs that achieved 70% coverage two weeks or more after the infection peak experienced nearly twice the total infection burden (27.7 per 1000 [27.3, 28.0] compared with 14.9 [14.7, 15.0]) than LGAs with a shorter lag., Conclusions: Exposure and transmission risk factors cluster within disadvantaged LGAs. The potential for large local outbreaks is heightened if vaccination uptake trails in these communities., Implications for Public Health: In a pandemic, decision-makers must prioritise disease control and harm reduction interventions for at-risk LGAs., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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48. Post implementation quarantine recommendations that support preparedness: A systematic review and quarantine implementation capability framework.
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Bush M, Bennett CM, Hutchinson A, and Bouchoucha SL
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- Humans, SARS-CoV-2, Pandemics prevention & control, Quarantine, COVID-19 prevention & control, COVID-19 epidemiology
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Background: During COVID-19, countries utilised various quarantine systems to achieve specific outcomes. At different stages and durations, voluntary and mandatory quarantine occurred in homes, hotels and facilities based on local and national elimination strategies. Countries are incorporating quarantine lessons from COVID-19 into revising pandemic plans as part of the World Health Organization's Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) activities. This review aimed to amalgamate quarantine post implementation recommendations from a whole-of-system perspective., Methods: This review utilised MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, APA, and PsycINFO. To capture all pandemics, no date restriction was applied. Recommendations were synthesised and inductively grouped into quarantine capability categories. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023420765)., Results: A total of 449 published articles were screened, with 51 articles included and 156 recommendations extracted. Recommendations were grouped into 15 quarantine capability categories, comprising governance, preparation, infection prevention and control, ventilation, compliance, data, information and technology, safety-quality-risk, communication, healthcare model, home quarantine, hotel quarantine, facility quarantine, workforce, and resident considerations. The capability categories were further consolidated into strategic, structural, and operational domains to support the whole-of-system perspective., Conclusion: The quarantine implementation capability framework generated provides comprehensive and deeper insights into the essential capabilities required for quarantine systems to support governments in PRET activities, including reviewing and revising pandemic plans and developing quarantine preparedness exercises., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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49. Mapping Australia's COVID-19 quarantine cohort journeys.
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Bush M, Hutchinson A, Bouchoucha SL, and Bennett CM
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- Humans, Australia epidemiology, SARS-CoV-2, Travel, Pandemics prevention & control, Cohort Studies, COVID-19 prevention & control, COVID-19 epidemiology, Quarantine
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Background: Australia rapidly developed COVID-19 quarantine programs to reduce the adverse outcomes of a novel pathogen imported by visitors and returned travellers. Different quarantine pathways were utilised over the pandemic, yet no definitive cohort map exists to guide future preparedness. We created a whole-of-system cohort journey map of Australian quarantine cohorts to inform future pandemic preparedness activities., Methods: Australian parliamentary websites and Google were searched for publicly available grey literature from 2019 to 2023. Data about quarantine cohorts, pandemic plans and documents, journey activities, viral escape events, and quarantine recommendations were extracted and plotted to produce a whole-of-system cohort journey map., Results: The system mapping process identified 22 distinct quarantine cohort journeys during COVID-19, yet few of the cohorts were mentioned in pandemic and emergency plans. Viral escape events were documented 27 times, and COVID-19 reviews and inquiries produced 282 quarantine-specific recommendations. Cohorts included international and domestic travellers who experienced home, hotel, and facility quarantine iterations. Other cohorts, such as humanitarian evacuations, diplomats, airline crews, community close contacts, and people experiencing homelessness, had distinctive quarantine journeys., Conclusions: This whole-of-system quarantine cohort map furthers the case for governments and policymakers to update pandemic plans to include the 22 identified cohorts and test plans through pandemic exercises. Recommendations from inquiries should be acquitted to reduce the risk of viral escape and to strengthen national preparedness if quarantine systems are required in future pandemic responses., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
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- 2024
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50. Cause-Specific Excess Mortality During the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021) in 12 Countries of the C-MOR Consortium.
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Beeks VV, Achilleos S, Quattrocchi A, Pallari CT, Critselis E, Salameh P, Rahmanian Haghighi MR, Rodriguez-Llanes JM, Ambrosio G, Artemiou A, Gabel J, Bennett CM, Cuthbertson J, Zimmermann C, Schernhammer ES, Costa AJL, de Carvalho LF, Lobato JCP, Athanasiadou M, Critchley JA, Goldsmith LP, Kandelaki L, Glushkova N, Davletov K, Semenova Y, Erzen I, Verstiuk O, Alekkou D, Polemitis A, Charalambous A, and Demetriou CA
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- Humans, Pandemics, SARS-CoV-2, Respiratory Tract Diseases mortality, Respiratory Tract Diseases epidemiology, Pneumonia mortality, Mortality trends, Male, Australia epidemiology, Global Health statistics & numerical data, COVID-19 mortality, COVID-19 epidemiology, Neoplasms mortality, Neoplasms epidemiology, Cause of Death trends, Cardiovascular Diseases mortality, Cardiovascular Diseases epidemiology
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Background: This study investigated cause-specific mortality rates in 12 countries during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021., Methods: We collected weekly cause-specific mortality data from respiratory disease, pneumonia, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer from national vital statistic databases. We calculated excess mortality for respiratory disease (excluding COVID-19 codes), pneumonia, and CVD in 2020 and 2021 by comparing observed weekly against expected mortality based on historical data (2015-2019), accounting for seasonal trends. We used multilevel regression models to investigate the association between country-level pandemic-related variables and cause-specific mortality., Results: Significant reductions in cumulative mortality from respiratory disease and pneumonia were observed in 2020 and/or 2021, except for Georgia, Northern Ireland, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine, which exhibited excess mortality for one or both causes. Australia, Austria, Cyprus, Georgia, and Northern Ireland experienced excess cumulative CVD mortality in 2020 and/or 2021. Australia, Austria, Brazil, Cyprus, Georgia, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Slovenia, experienced increased crude cumulative cancer mortality during 2020 and/or 2021 compared to previous years. Among pandemic-related variables, reported COVID-19 incidence was negatively associated with increased cancer mortality, excess respiratory, (2020) and pneumonia (2021) mortality, and positively associated with respiratory and CVD mortality (2021). Stringency of control measures were negatively associated with excess respiratory disease, CVD, and increased cancer mortality (2021)., Conclusions: This study provides evidence of substantial excess mortality from CVD, and notable reductions in respiratory disease and pneumonia in both years across most countries investigated. Our study also highlights the beneficial impact of stringent control measures in mitigating excess mortality from most causes in 2021., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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