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Background: Parental depression increases children's risk of mental illness and may simultaneously impair the detection of children's symptoms. Here we investigate the nature of parent‐child agreement of children's psychopathology in children of parents with current (cMD) versus remitted (rMD) major depression. Methods: Baseline data from 100 parent‐child dyads including healthy children aged 8–17 (M = 11.89, SD = 2.83) and their parents with a history of depression were analysed. The presence of sub‐clinical psychopathology (yes/no) in children was assessed using semi‐structured diagnostic interviews with child and parent (K‐DIPS). Self‐ (YSR) and parent‐report (CBCL) questionnaires were used to measure the severity of symptoms. Parent‐child agreement was calculated using Chi‐square tests and Cohen's kappa respectively. We compared whether agreement differed between children of parents with cMD (n = 52) versus rMD (n = 48). Results: In the interviews parents more frequently reported sub‐clinical child psychopathology than the children themselves (χ21,100 = 4.63, p < 0.001, d = 0.59). This pattern characterised parents with cMD (χ21,52 = 7.99, p = 0.005; κ = 0.582) but not rMD (χ21,48 = 000, p = 0.686; κ = −0.010), a difference which was statistically significant (z = 3.14, p < 0.001, d = 0.66). Conclusion: Since agreement between parents and children about the severity of children's symptoms was particularly poor in families where parents were currently depressed, parental mental illness should be taken into account when assessing youth psychopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To highlight the impact of behavioral and non-behavioral factors on cardiovascular health, disease prevention and management. Methods Cox regression and forest plots were used to assess and demonstrate the relationship between their behavioral and non-behavioral factors and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in a study population of 20 745 people at high cardiovascular risk from Zhejing province. Apriori algorithm was used to analyze the correlation between behavioral factors and non-behavioral factors for people with at least one of the greatest risk behavioral factors. Results The incidence of cardiovascular risk in Zhejiang province was positively related to age and inversely related to education level of target population. The higher risk was identified in in male and population in urban citities as compared to female and the people in rural areas; The risk was positively related to smoking intensity and showed a U-shaped association with alcohol intake; The incidence was lowest in those who were mainly standing during routine work; The risk was lower in those who had a clear distinction between busy and idle farming activity in farmers; Men who were engaged in general physical labor and never smoked nor drank high dose of alcohol; Women who never smoked and drank, but did not work and at home were important factors related to the higher cardiovascular risk rate. Conclusions There are a wide range of factors affecting the high-risk population of cardiovascular disease, and there is a certain correlation among these factors.

Objective To highlight the impact of behavioral and non-behavioral factors on cardiovascular health, disease prevention and management. Methods Cox regression and forest plots were used to assess and demonstrate the relationship between their behavioral and non-behavioral factors and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in a study population of 20 745 people at high cardiovascular risk from Zhejing province. Apriori algorithm was used to analyze the correlation between behavioral factors and non-behavioral factors for people with at least one of the greatest risk behavioral factors. Results The incidence of cardiovascular risk in Zhejiang province was positively related to age and inversely related to education level of target population. The higher risk was identified in in male and population in urban citities as compared to female and the people in rural areas; The risk was positively related to smoking intensity and showed a U-shaped association with alcohol intake; The incidence was lowest in those who were mainly standing during routine work; The risk was lower in those who had a clear distinction between busy and idle farming activity in farmers; Men who were engaged in general physical labor and never smoked nor drank high dose of alcohol; Women who never smoked and drank, but did not work and at home were important factors related to the higher cardiovascular risk rate. Conclusions There are a wide range of factors affecting the high-risk population of cardiovascular disease, and there is a certain correlation among these factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Parental depression increases children's risk of mental illness and may simultaneously impair the detection of children's symptoms. Here we investigate the nature of parent‐child agreement of children's psychopathology in children of parents with current (cMD) versus remitted (rMD) major depression. Methods Baseline data from 100 parent‐child dyads including healthy children aged 8–17 (M = 11.89, SD = 2.83) and their parents with a history of depression were analysed. The presence of sub‐clinical psychopathology (yes/no) in children was assessed using semi‐structured diagnostic interviews with child and parent (K‐DIPS). Self‐ (YSR) and parent‐report (CBCL) questionnaires were used to measure the severity of symptoms. Parent‐child agreement was calculated using Chi‐square tests and Cohen's kappa respectively. We compared whether agreement differed between children of parents with cMD (n = 52) versus rMD (n = 48). Results In the interviews parents more frequently reported sub‐clinical child psychopathology than the children themselves (χ2 1,100 = 4.63, p

Influenza and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination are recommended in both solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients. In Puglia, Southern Italy, an active vaccination offer program has been activated targeting these patients. This study aims at investigating vaccination coverage (VC) for both vaccines in a SOT patients’ cohort, as well as at identifying the vaccination compliance determinant. This is a retrospective, population-based study. The study population consists of the SOT patients who accessed Bari’s “Policlinico” General Hospital during 2017–2022. Patients were contacted and, after providing their consent, asked their immunization status regarding influenza and COVID-19 and whether they had already undergone transplant or were waiting to do so. Regression models were fitted to investigate the determinants of VCs for influenza vaccination (2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons) and for COVID-19 vaccination (three-dose base cycle, first and second booster doses). Three-hundred and ten SOT patients were identified; 85.2% (264/310) had already undergone SOT. VCs were suboptimal, especially for constant yearly influenza vaccination (17.7%) and COVID-19 vaccination’s second booster (1.94%). Logistic regression highlighted that influenza VCs are higher for SOT recipients than SOT candidates, as well as for older patients, although when considering both vaccination seasons only age significantly impact the vaccination uptake. Older age was the only influential variable for COVID-19 VC. VCs for SOT patients seem to be unsatisfying. Stronger interventions are required.

Hypokinetic non-dilated cardiomyopathy (HNDC) is a subtype of DCM, characterised by LV dysfunction, despite absence of LV dilatation. It is most often underdiagnosed and undertreated by physicians due to presence of subclinical symptoms and signs along with subtle radiological and electrocardiographic manifestations. However, a proportion of patients with specific characteristics may develop end stage disease and life-threatening arrhythmia with grievous outcomes. Therefore a systemic qualitative analytic study conducted collecting and compiling all the literatures and guidelines related to HNDC and its related groups to find out high risk groups of patients in terms of arrhythmogenicity or progression of disease. An attempt was also initiated to derive a solution about early accurate diagnosis of patients with HNDC and its related groups. During analysis we obtained useful information’s as described below. Family history with genetic association is an important prognostic marker with poor outcomes. Elicitation of family history and pre-degree analysis also help early diagnosis and prevention of progression of disease in relatives. Red flag approach to detect specific clinical, electrocardiographic, radiological signs and laboratory findings can help to detect familial disease with poor outcomes. Screening echocardiography single most important tool to confirm the diagnosis at an earlier stage and prognostication of patients. Speckle tracking is a higher modality of echocardiographic tool,that has greater sensitivity to detect subtle abnormalities of systolic function at an earlier stage. Biomarkers like NT-probnp can have a role in suspecting heart failure in patients without significant cardiomegaly. High risk group of patients can be detected at an earlier stage by stratifying patients as per their family history, genotype, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, radiologic findings and biomarkers value, so that appropriate measures can be taken at an earlier stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease associated with occupations which exposed workers to environments contaminated with urine of infected animals. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of leptospirosis among wet market workers in Kelantan. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted in two main wet markets in Kelantan and 232 wet market workers were randomly selected. Blood samples were analysed for microscopic agglutination test (MAT) against 20 live leptospirosis reference serovars. MAT titres of 1:100 or more were considered as seropositive. Results It was found that the overall seroprevalence for leptospirosis among the respondents was 33.6% (95% CI = 27.5, 39.7). The samples were tested positive against serovars Melaka (IMR LEP 1), Terengganu (IMR LEP 115), Sarawak (IMR LEP 175), Copenhageni (IMR LEP 803/11), Hardjobovis (IMR LEP 27), Australis, Autumnalis, Bataviae, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjoprajitno, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Javanica, Pyrogenes, Terrasovi, Djasiman, Patoc and Pomona. The predominant serovars was Autumnalis (18.2%). Conclusion Wet markets workers were at risk for leptospirosis infection evidenced by high seroprevalence of leptospirosis in this study. Further research need to be conducted to determine factors that favours infection in this groups.

Introduction According to numerous studies, the origins of most endogenous mental diseases, in particular, autism, lie in early childhood. This concept is based on the classical theories of diathesis. Objectives The purpose of this study was to clarify the phenomenology of mental disorders in children with an assessment of the prognostic significance of symptoms that preceded the development of the disease for future mental health. Methods The clinical material was collected during the survey of a child population. Selected for prospective observation was 40 children (1-3 years old) from the high-risk group for schizophrenia with functional disorders of the endogenous spectrum. All patients were examined by clinical methods and pathopsychological, neurophysiological. Psychometric scales PANSS, CARS were used. The results were mathematically evaluated using the Statistica 7 program. Results The clinical picture of the mental state of young children, in children with autistic disorders in 1,5-3 years, was determined by a specific complex of disorders, which were reduced to a general deficit, especially in the emotional sphere, vegetative dysregulation, most often, the sleep-Wake rhythm. Motor skills, as a rule, did not lag significantly behind the age standards. The onset of actual autistic disorders was noted older than 1 year of life. Сhildren received medication and corrective therapy. The detailed clinical picture of violations developed gradually. Dynamics of psychopathological picture in (80,0%) children was regressive. Conclusions The study shows the importance of preventive measures in people related to ASD, sparing individual approach in education and therapy.

Researchers of the behavior of adolescents from the so-called high-risk groups suggest that due to the high level of problem behaviors (e.g. drinking alcohol, smoking, drug use, violence) the most appropriate preventive work is the harm reduction approach, especially in the case of borderline behaviors such as alcohol use (Pisarska, Bobrowski, Greń, Ostaszewski, 2019: 343). Applying this type of strategy to illegal behavior such as drug use, especially NPS (the so-called legal highs) seems to be a bit more problematic. Meanwhile, the results of research on the reception (process evaluation) of the "Taste of Life Debate" preventive program scenario indicate that selected universal procedures, intended for young people with an average level of risk, can be successfully used in work with young people at risk, as long as they relate to behavior that is not normative in the social sense (such as using NPS). The work is a short comparison of evaluation results in the universal group and in the high-risk group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Seasonal influenza vaccination is the main method for influenza prevention. The main objective of this study is to estimate the frequency of vaccinations in patients with chronic illnesses presented to a primary health care (PHC) centre.Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in patients admitted to the Kapandriti Health Centre. Their vaccination status with an influenza vaccine and their underlying diseases were recorded.Results: 34.8% of the subjects had been vaccinated against seasonal influenza. Vaccination coverage was found to be 53.9% in pulmonary, 55.6% in chronic kidney disease, 43.7% in cardiovascular disorders, 40.6% in diabetes, 40.6% in any kind of malignancy, and finally 33.3% in neurological patients. The most significant predictors for vaccination were the age group of 60 to 79 years (OR = 3.08, 95% CI: 1.79-5.29), age over 80 years (OR = 2.91, 95% CI: 1.58-5.36), respiratory disease (OR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.33-3.76), cardiovascular disorder (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.02-2.10), and 3 to 5 visits to the unit annually (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.12-2.24). Finally, it was discovered that coexistence of one to three diseases reduced the likelihood ratio for vaccine uptake (OR = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03-0.79, p < 0.05).Conclusions: The influenza vaccination rate for the population of the present study has been found higher than that reported previously in literature. We believe that there is a need to implement new and more effective strategies such as educating vulnerable groups on the benefits of vaccination and so reducing the incidence of influenza and its complications especially in vulnerable groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenza and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination are recommended in both solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients. In Puglia, Southern Italy, an active vaccination offer program has been activated targeting these patients. This study aims at investigating vaccination coverage (VC) for both vaccines in a SOT patients' cohort, as well as at identifying the vaccination compliance determinant. This is a retrospective, population-based study. The study population consists of the SOT patients who accessed Bari's "Policlinico" General Hospital during 2017-2022. Patients were contacted and, after providing their consent, asked their immunization status regarding influenza and COVID-19 and whether they had already undergone transplant or were waiting to do so. Regression models were fitted to investigate the determinants of VCs for influenza vaccination (2021/22 and 2022/23 seasons) and for COVID-19 vaccination (three-dose base cycle, first and second booster doses). Three-hundred and ten SOT patients were identified; 85.2% (264/310) had already undergone SOT. VCs were suboptimal, especially for constant yearly influenza vaccination (17.7%) and COVID-19 vaccination's second booster (1.94%). Logistic regression highlighted that influenza VCs are higher for SOT recipients than SOT candidates, as well as for older patients, although when considering both vaccination seasons only age significantly impact the vaccination uptake. Older age was the only influential variable for COVID-19 VC. VCs for SOT patients seem to be unsatisfying. Stronger interventions are required.

Copyright of Public Health Forum is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Five experts respected for their significant contributions to the scientific literature on children of alcoholics (COA's) offer their perspectives in a panel discussion format. The panel members reflect on the historical roots of COA research and comment on its current status and future direction. Enriched by the panelists' variety of backgrounds, research interests, and approaches, the discussion emphasizes the need to consider multiple variables that influence the risk for alcoholism among COA's.

Background: Parental depression increases children's risk of mental illness and may simultaneously impair the detection of children's symptoms. Here we investigate the nature of parent-child agreement of children's psychopathology in children of parents with current (cMD) versus remitted (rMD) major depression., Methods: Baseline data from 100 parent-child dyads including healthy children aged 8-17 (M = 11.89, SD = 2.83) and their parents with a history of depression were analysed. The presence of sub-clinical psychopathology (yes/no) in children was assessed using semi-structured diagnostic interviews with child and parent (K-DIPS). Self- (YSR) and parent-report (CBCL) questionnaires were used to measure the severity of symptoms. Parent-child agreement was calculated using Chi-square tests and Cohen's kappa respectively. We compared whether agreement differed between children of parents with cMD (n = 52) versus rMD (n = 48)., Results: In the interviews parents more frequently reported sub-clinical child psychopathology than the children themselves (χ 2 1,100  = 4.63, p < 0.001, d = 0.59). This pattern characterised parents with cMD (χ 2 1,52  = 7.99, p = 0.005; κ = 0.582) but not rMD (χ 2 1,48  = 000, p = 0.686; κ = -0.010), a difference which was statistically significant (z = 3.14, p < 0.001, d = 0.66)., Conclusion: Since agreement between parents and children about the severity of children's symptoms was particularly poor in families where parents were currently depressed, parental mental illness should be taken into account when assessing youth psychopathology., (© 2023 The Authors. International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Copyright of Praxis der Kinderpsychologie und Kinderpsychiatrie is the property of Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co. KG and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Human brucellosis is clinically indistinguishable from other infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, typhoid, leptospira, and malaria. Laboratory diagnosis remains a mainstay in the diagnosis of brucellosis. This study was carried out to find out the prevalence of brucellosis among high risk group by Brucella immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing to assess the magnitude of the problem. Materials and Methods: A total of 130 blood samples collected from high risk group, another 130 samples from general population as control group were tested for Brucella IgG ELISA using smooth-lipopolysaccharide antigen. Results: Among the 130 high risk group, 19 (15%) were positive for Brucella IgG antibody. The duration of exposure of more than 25 years was observed in 10 (53%) seropositive cases. 21 (16%) handled Brucella vaccine for animals. Of this, 13 were seropositive for Brucella IgG. Among the 130 control group, none were positive for Brucella IgG antibody. Conclusion: Since vaccine is not available for human, awareness of transmission of brucellosis, vaccination of livestock, protective measures like barrier protection, while handling animal vaccines and isolation of infected animals can reduce the prevalence.

Background: Hamad General Hospital is the main provider of hemodialysis (HD) in Qatar, for approximately 650 patients per year. Over 60% of these patients have Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and 55% of them suffer from end stage renal disease (ESRD). 2% of ESRD patients develop DM after their first year of dialysis1. The aims of this quality improvement study were early DM detection, risk factors modifications, and reduction of diabetes complications in our patients. Methods: A risk assessment tool was adapted to identify the risk level of HD patients to develop DM2. They were screened to determine their risk score across 8 categories. Six categories (gender, history of gestational diabetes, family history of high blood pressure, diabetes, physical activity and smoking) were scored 0 to 1, age was scored 0 to 3, and relationship between weight and height scored 1 to 3. (Overall score range: 1-12). Patients were classified into two groups: a low-risk group (score < 5) and a high-risk group (score ≥ 5)3. Patients were referred to different medical specialties for further management according to the risk factor and a lifestyle modification management plan was set individually. Results: 189 non-diabetic dialysis patients were screened in the first quarter of 2020, their mean age was 51 years-old, and 69% were male. Forty-three percent of patients were found to be at high risk of developing DM. The most important risk factors were family history (55%), obesity (40%), age >60 years (32%), low physical activity (14%), and smoking (11%) (Figure 1). Thirty-seven percent of patients were referred to the obesity clinic, 10% to the smoking cessation clinic, 5% to physiotherapy, and 100% of patients were referred to the multidisciplinary care (Figure 2). Conclusion: Screening for diabetes is pivotal for early detection and risk factor modification in dialysis patients. We recommend quarterly data assessment and evaluation so patients can be managed according to the findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hysterectomy is the fairly common operative procedures carried out in the gynecological practice. Abdominal hysterectomy has it own limitation in high risk groups and had post operative complications. So the present study was undertaken with objective to find out the efficacy of vaginal hysterectomy in other than prolapse patients to assess its safety and to determine efficacy of adjunctive procedures by vaginal route. Material and methods: Total 60 patients having indication had vaginal hysterectomy without vaginal prolapse having uterus up to 14 weeks size. Patients having capability of lithotomy position and adequate vaginal access were included in the study. Patients suspected or undiagnosed malignancy of urogenital organs and associated other pelvic pathology or abdominal pathology was excluded. After thorough general and systemic examination after USG patient were posted for vaginal hysterectomy. Preoperative and post operative complications were noted and managed accordingly. Results: In present study 80% of the patients were above the age of 40 years. 76.7% of the vaginal patients were having parity 3 or more. Most patients were having more than one complaint. But most common complaint among them was menstrual irregularities and associated medical problems were noted in 51.7% patients. Previous abdominal or pelvic surgery was not a contraindication for vaginal surgery. Most common indication for vaginal hysterectomy was fibroid Uterus in 41.7% and dysfunctional uterine bleeding 38.3%. In the present series, patients with fibroid size up to 14 weeks were operated vaginally successfully. The amount of blood loss was less than 50 ml in this study. Significant blood loss requiring blood transfusion was not found in this study. There was no bladder or bowel injury the special techniques used was bisection, myomectomy, morcellation and combination. The most commonly used technique was bisection. Mean duration to complete vaginal hysterectomies was 48.6 minutes, period more than that was required when there was presence of concurrent A and P repair. No patient required blood transfusion maximum i.e. 63.3% patient's blood loss was less than 50 ml. There was no bowel or bladder injury during procedure and immediate post operative pain. Febrile episode and UTI was complained with no long term complications. Average hospital stay was 3 days. Conclusion: Vaginal hysterectomy in patients with up to 14 weeks for non-descent large uterus is safe and practical. It ensures minimal blood loss, early postoperative recovery, early ambulation, reduced duration of hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Exploring the characteristics information of high-risk populations of undergraduate depression from social networks and tracking the high-risk groups of depression to provide the key points for the administration department of the college students and give more psychological support or psychological aid for them. Methods (1) SNS was focused on the target populations; (2)Preliminary searching keywords(PSK) were selected characterizing expression; (3)Determine keywords for a disposable searching: recorded the result, 10 high frequency used words were filtered. as the final searching keywords ( FSK); (4)Formal searching was the non-reprinted text messages with students' view in detail in the ' status' column for consecutive 7 days with FSK. (5)Text database established: name, gender, school and text that "status" covered. (6)Depressive characteristic keywords (DCK) positioned: to determine representative DCK used by college students by the detection rate sorted during retrieval in continuous 7 days. Results The DCK was related to depression. The FSK detection rate from high to low was respectively as follows: suicide (3.80%), depression (1.80%), escape (1.80), lazyness (1.71%), insomnia (1.50%), futility (1.22%), pain (1.00%), crying (1.00%), despair (0.83%), loneliness (0.60%). The overall DCK detection rate was 1.35%. Conclusion College students' depression characteristics exists in the SNS. The high-risk depression populations could be found by DCK search, which make psychological support and aids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: According to numerous studies, the origins of most endogenous mental diseases, in particular, autism, lie in early childhood. This concept is based on the classical theories of diathesis. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to clarify the phenomenology of mental disorders in children with an assessment of the prognostic significance of symptoms that preceded the development of the disease for future mental health. Methods: The clinical material was collected during the survey of a child population. Selected for prospective observation was 40 children (1-3 years old) from the high-risk group for schizophrenia with functional disorders of the endogenous spectrum. All patients were examined by clinical methods and pathopsychological, neurophysiological. Psychometric scales PANSS, CARS were used. The resultswere mathematically evaluated using the Statistica 7 program. Results: The clinical picture of the mental state of young children, in children with autistic disorders in 1,5-3 years, was determined by a specific complex of disorders, which were reduced to a general deficit, especially in the emotional sphere, vegetative dysregulation, most often, the sleep-Wake rhythm. Motor skills, as a rule, did not lag significantly behind the age standards. The onset of actual autistic disorders was noted older than 1 year of life. Children received medication and corrective therapy. The detailed clinical picture of violations developed gradually. Dynamics of psychopathological picture in (80,0%) children was regressive. Conclusions: The study shows the importance of preventive measures in people related to ASD, sparing individual approach in education and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the role of low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy-based multimodal therapy in high-risk prostate cancer (PCa) and analyze its optimal indications. Materials and Methods: We reviewed the records of 50 high-risk PCa patients [clinical stage ≥T2c, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) >20 ng/mL, or biopsy Gleason score ≥8] who had undergone 125I LDR brachytherapy since April 2007. We excluded those with a follow-up period <3 years. Biochemical recurrence (BCR) followed the Phoenix definition. BCR-free survival rates were compared between the patients with Gleason score ≥9 and Gleason score ≤8. Results: The mean initial PSA was 22.1 ng/mL, and mean D90 was 244.3 Gy. During a median follow- up of 39.2 months, biochemical control was obtained in 72% (36/50) of the total patients; The estimated 3-year BCR-free survival was 92% for the patients with biopsy Gleason scores ≤8, and 40% for those with Gleason scores ≥9 (p<0.001). In Cox multivariate analysis, only Gleason score ≥9 was observed to be significantly associated with BCR (p=0.021). Acute and late grade ≥3 toxicities were observed in 20% (10/50) and 36% (18/50) patients, respectively. Conclusion: Our results showed that 125I LDR brachytherapy-based multimodal therapy in high-risk PCa produced encouraging relatively long-term results among the Asian population, especially in patients with Gleason score ≤8. Despite small number of subjects, biopsy Gleason score ≥9 was a significant predictor of BCR among high risk PCa patients after brachytherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Pedagogía Social is the property of Pedagogia Social and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Detection of Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected people in each community assists with infection prevention and control. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of HCV infection among high risk groups in Kohgiloyeh and Boyerahmad Province, Southwest Iran. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from 2009-2010 in Kohgiloyeh and Boyerahmad Province. High risk groups for HCV were the subjects of this study. Blood samples were taken from 2009 individuals at high risk for HCV that included inmates, injecting drug users (IDUs), health care workers, patients on maintenance hemodialysis, hemophilic patients, and those with histories of blood transfusions. Patients were residents of Yasuj, Gachsaran, and Dehdasht (3 main townships in the province). Samples were analyzed by ELISA for anti-HCV antibodies. Demographic features of participants were recorded by a questionnaire during sample collection. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 13 software. Results: Of 2009 subjects, HCV antibodies were detected in 172 (8.6%). Rate of infection was higher in males (11.4%) compared to females (3.2%). Rate of infection in inmates was 11.7% while this rate was 42.4% in IDUs, 4.2% in health care workers, and 6.1% in thalassemic patients. Significant correlation was found between HCV infection, history of imprisonment, and thalassemia. Conclusion: Results of this study have provided epidemiologic features of HCV and its risk factors in Kohgiloyeh and Boyerahmad Province, Southwest Iran. This information may assist in preventing the spread of HCV infection in this and other similar settings in the region. The findings of this study may help in improving surveillance and infection control in the community through management and monitoring of infected individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global health problem. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk behaviors for HBV infection among high risk groups in Kohgiloyeh and Boyerahmad province, in Southwest of Iran. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 2009 subjects, between 2009 and 2010 in Kohgiloyeh and Boyerahmad province, in southwest of Iran. Recruited subjects were the high risk groups for HBV infection, including inmates, injecting drug users, health care workers, patients on maintenance haemodialysis, hemophilic patients and patients with a history of blood transfusion. Their serum samples were tested for the presence of antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen (HBc IgM, IgG) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Seropositive specimens were tested for HBsAg. Demographic features of participants were recorded during sample collecting. Results: HBsAg was detected in 24 of the 2009 subjects, giving an overall prevalence of 1.2%. All HBsAg positive cases were males. The prevalence of HBsAg among injection drug users was 3.2%. Significant correlation was found between HBV infection and drug abuse, level of education and place of residence (p<0.05), while no significant correlation was found between HBV infection and previous history of blood transfusion, unprotected sexual behavior, and thalassemia. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, incarceration and drug abuse are the most important risk factors for acquiring HBV infection in this region. Modifying behavior, improving the individual education and expanding the HBV vaccination coverage may reduce the rate of infection in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic factors are important host factors that play a role in the development of all diseases through their interaction with environmental factors. Most genetic disorders are the direct result of a mutation in a single gene. However, one of the most difficult challenges currently faced by researchers is the identification of ways in which genes contribute to diseases with complex inheritance patterns, such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, and mental illness. In all of these cases, no single gene determines whether a person will develop a disease. Several genes may contribute to an individual's susceptibility to a disease; genes may also affect how an individual reacts to environmental factors. In this study, we attempted to classify high-risk groups using up-to-date genetic knowledge. We also briefly discuss the role of scientific evidence in the identification (through genetic screening) and management of high-risk subgroups in the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the frequency and distribution of antibodies against pandemic influenza A (H1N1 2009) [H1N1] in populations in Beijing and elucidate influencing factors. Methods: In January 2010, a randomized serologic survey of pandemic influenza A (H1N1 2009) was carried out. Six districts that were randomly selected with a total of 4601 participants involved in the survey have their antibody level tested by hemagglutination inhibition assay. Results: Among the 4601 participants, the overall seropositive rate for pandemic influenza A (H1N1 2009) antibodies was 31.7%. The seropositivity prevalence in participants who received the pandemic H1N1 vaccination was 60.9%. Only 53.1% of the pandemic influenza A (H1N1 2009) seropositive individuals who had not received the vaccination experienced respiratory tract infection symptoms. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that factors such as age, occupation, dwelling type, whether the participant''s family included students in school, and the vaccination history with pandemic influenza A (H1N1 2009) were associated with antibody titers (p <0.05). Conclusions: Our data indicated that almost 30.0% of the residents had appropriate antibody titers against pandemic influenza A (H1N1 2009) in Beijing, and these titers may provide an immune barrier. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background and Aim: The Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), have common modes of transmission. Globally, sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates are the highest among population subgroups such as sex workers. Objective is to - (i) Study of Hepatitis B infections and HIV infection in female sex workers (ii) Co-infection rate of HBV and HIV among this population (iii) Simultaneous comparision of infection HBV and HIV infection in healthy female population(blood donar). Methodology: This study was conducted in the department of microbiology IGGMC Nagpur from October 2014 to August 2015. Their sera were tested for the HBsAg and HIV antibodies. Results: A total 400 samples were tested (200 samples of female sex workers and 200 samples of healthy female blood donors. The seropositivity of HBV in FSWs is 1.5% and of HIV is 2%, none of FSWs were coinfected with both the infections. That of healthy female donors HBV prevalence is 0.5% and HIV is also 0.5% similarly none were coinfected with both the infections. Conclusion: The prevalence of Hepatitis-B virus infection and HIV infection is low among the female sex workers in Nagpur region. Similarly prevalence in healthy female population is also low. Targeted intervention among the risk group is effective measure in decreasing the hepatitis B infection rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Japan, the national screening for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been started for both the general population and the high-risk groups. Our cost-effectiveness analysis was based on the result of the screening program including 99,001 people among the general population and 42,538 people among the high risk group from 2003 to 2006. The screening was performed using the three steps of the semi-quantitative HCV antibody test, the HCV core antigen test and the HCV-PCR test. A Markov model for HCV infected patients was constructed to estimate the future clinical benefits and the lifetime cost and the cost-effectiveness analysis was performed considering the recent treatment with peginterferon plus ribavirin. In the cost-effectiveness analysis, the cohort, in which the screening was implemented (= screening strategy), was compared with the similar cohort without the screening (= no-screening strategy) in both the general population and the high-risk group, stratified by age. The infection rates of the general population and the high-risk group were 0.36% and 0.81%, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), a measure of cost-effectiveness, of the general population and the high-risk group was calculated to be from 848 to 4,825 and - 749 to 2,297 $/life expectancy gained, respectively. The treatment effectiveness, transition probabilities and the infection rate varied in the one-way sensitivity analyses, but the superiority of the screening strategy regarding the cost-effectiveness was unchanged. In conclusion, the screening strategy in both the general population and the high-risk group therefore appears to be more cost-effective than a no-screening strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Human brucellosis is clinically indistinguishable from other infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, typhoid, leptospira, and malaria. Laboratory diagnosis remains a mainstay in the diagnosis of brucellosis. This study was carried out to find out the prevalence of brucellosis among high risk group by Brucella immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) testing to assess the magnitude of the problem. Materials and Methods: A total of 130 blood samples collected from high risk group, another 130 samples from general population as control group were tested for Brucella IgG ELISA using smooth-lipopolysaccharide antigen. Results: Among the 130 high risk group, 19 (15%) were positive for Brucella IgG antibody. The duration of exposure of more than 25 years was observed in 10 (53%) seropositive cases. 21 (16%) handled Brucella vaccine for animals. Of this, 13 were seropositive for Brucella IgG. Among the 130 control group, none were positive for Brucella IgG antibody. Conclusion: Since vaccine is not available for human, awareness of transmission of brucellosis, vaccination of livestock, protective measures like barrier protection, while handling animal vaccines and isolation of infected animals can reduce the prevalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease associated with occupations which exposed workers to environments contaminated with urine of infected animals. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of leptospirosis among wet market workers in Kelantan.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in two main wet markets in Kelantan and 232 wet market workers were randomly selected. Blood samples were analysed for microscopic agglutination test (MAT) against 20 live leptospirosis reference serovars. MAT titres of 1:100 or more were considered as seropositive.Results: It was found that the overall seroprevalence for leptospirosis among the respondents was 33.6% (95% CI = 27.5, 39.7). The samples were tested positive against serovars Melaka (IMR LEP 1), Terengganu (IMR LEP 115), Sarawak (IMR LEP 175), Copenhageni (IMR LEP 803/11), Hardjobovis (IMR LEP 27), Australis, Autumnalis, Bataviae, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Hardjoprajitno, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Javanica, Pyrogenes, Terrasovi, Djasiman, Patoc and Pomona. The predominant serovars was Autumnalis (18.2%).Conclusion: Wet markets workers were at risk for leptospirosis infection evidenced by high seroprevalence of leptospirosis in this study. Further research need to be conducted to determine factors that favours infection in this groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]