scholarly journals Will a quadruple multiplexed point-of-care screening strategy for HIV-related co-infections be feasible and impact detection of new co-infections in at-risk populations? Results from cross-sectional studies

BMJ Open ◽  
2014 ◽  
Vol 4 (12) ◽  
pp. e005040 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nitika Pant Pai ◽  
Rachita Dhurat ◽  
Martin Potter ◽  
Tarannum Behlim ◽  
Geneviève Landry ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Screening Strategy ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Impact Detection ◽  
At Risk Populations ◽  
Cross Sectional Studies

scholarly journals Feasibility and Field Performance of a Simultaneous Syphilis and HIV Point-of-Care Test Based Screening Strategy in at Risk Populations in Edmonton, Canada

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joshua Bergman ◽  
Jennifer Gratrix ◽  
Sabrina Plitt ◽  
Jayne Fenton ◽  
Chris Archibald ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Predictive Value ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Field Performance ◽  
Antibody Test ◽  
Screening Strategy ◽  
Test Characteristics ◽  
Point Of Care Test ◽  
Sti Testing ◽  
At Risk Populations

Few studies have evaluated the feasibility of delivering syphilis point-of-care (POC) testing in outreach (nonclinical) settings in resource rich countries. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic performance of performing both HIV and syphilis POC testing in outreach settings and to document new cases identified in the study population. 1,265 outreach testing visits were offered syphilis and HIV POC testing and 81.5% (n=1,031) consented to testing. In our population, the SD Bioline 3.0 Syphilis Test had a sensitivity of 85.3% [CI (68.9–95.0)], specificity of 100.0% [CI (99.6–100.0)], positive predictive value (PPV) of 100.0% [CI (88.1–100.0)], and negative predictive value (NPV) of 99.5% [CI (98.9–99.8)]. Test characteristics for the INSTI HIV-1/HIV-2 Antibody Test had a 100.0% sensitivity [CI (39.8–100.00], 99.8 specificity [CI (99.3–100)], 66.7% PPV [CI (22.3–95.7)], and 100.0% NPV [CI (99.6–100.0)]. Four new cases of syphilis and four new HIV cases were diagnosed. In summary, at risk population seeking STI testing found POC tests to be acceptable, the POC tests performed well in outreach settings, and new cases of syphilis and HIV were identified and linked to treatment and care.

scholarly journals Malnutrition and cachexia among cancer out-patients in Nairobi, Kenya

2017 ◽  
Vol 6 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. U. Kaduka ◽  
Z. N. Bukania ◽  
Y. Opanga ◽  
R. Mutisya ◽  
A. Korir ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Screening Tool ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Fat Free Mass ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Correct Identification ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cancer Management ◽  
Patients At Risk

AbstractCancer is the third leading cause of death in Kenya. However, there is scarce information on the nutritional status of cancer patients to guide in decision making. The present study sought to assess the risk of malnutrition, and factors associated with malnutrition and cachexia, among cancer out-patients, with the aim of informing nutrition programmes for cancer management in Kenya and beyond. This was a facility-based cross-sectional study performed at Kenyatta National Hospital and Texas Cancer Centre in Nairobi, Kenya. The risk of malnutrition was assessed using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). Diagnoses of malnutrition and cachexia were done using the European Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and Fearon criteria, respectively. A total of 512 participants were assessed. Those at risk of malnutrition were 33·1 % (12·5 % at medium risk, 20·6 % at high risk). Prevalence of malnutrition was 13·4 %. The overall weight loss >5 % over 3 months was 18·2 % and low fat-free mass index was 43·1 %. Prevalence of cachexia was 14·1 % compared with 8·5 % obtained using the local criteria. Only 18·6 % participants had received any form of nutrition services. Age was a predictor of malnutrition and cachexia in addition to site of cancer for malnutrition and cigarette smoking for cachexia. The use of the MUST as a screening tool at the first point of care should be explored. The predictive value of current nutrition assessment tools, and the local diagnostic criteria for malnutrition and cachexia should be reassessed to inform the development of appropriate clinical guidelines and future capacity-building initiatives that will ensure the correct identification of patients at risk for timely care.

scholarly journals What are the psychological effects of using synthetic cannabinoids? A systematic review

2019 ◽  
Vol 33 (3) ◽  
pp. 271-283 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hina Akram ◽  
Claire Mokrysz ◽  
H Valerie Curran
Keyword(s):  
Synthetic Cannabinoids ◽  
Synthetic Cannabinoid ◽  
Psychological Effects ◽  
Psychological Consequences ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Cognitive Domains ◽  
Internet Surveys ◽  
At Risk Populations ◽  
Cross Sectional Studies ◽  
Study Designs

Background: Synthetic cannabinoids are, typically, full agonists at the cannabinoid CB1 receptor, and therefore considerably more potent than natural cannabis and may have correspondingly more serious psychological effects. Despite government sanctions against their production they continue to be available in ever-increasing varieties over the Internet. The psychological consequences of synthetic cannabinoid use are relatively unknown. Aim: The purpose of this study was to synthesise the available research on the psychological consequences of synthetic cannabinoid use. Method: A literature search of three databases was conducted in February 2018, including the following keywords: Spice, synthetic cannabis, cognition, affect, behaviour, psychosis, depression and anxiety. Results: Seventeen studies involving a variety of participants were eligible for inclusion: one controlled administration study, seven cross-sectional studies, five Internet surveys and four qualitative studies. The controlled administration study showed that, compared to placebo, synthetic cannabinoids acutely affected some aspects of cognitive functioning and subjective psychological ratings. Non-controlled, cross-sectional studies generally showed that synthetic cannabinoid users had lower performance on cognitive tasks and showed elevated symptomatology (e.g. paranoia) compared to both natural cannabis and non-cannabis users. Methodological limitations were noted across different study designs. There is limited research on how doses, frequency or type of synthetic cannabinoid influence outcomes. Conclusions: Acute synthetic cannabinoid use can result in a range of psychological outcomes and, when non-intoxicated, synthetic cannabinoid users appear to differ from natural cannabis and non-users on various affective and cognitive domains. As synthetic cannabinoid use is increasing in at-risk populations there is an urgent need for more and better research to inform users, professionals and policymakers.

scholarly journals Ticks infesting humans and associated pathogens: a cross-sectional study in a 3-year period (2017–2019) in northwest Italy

2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Tania Audino ◽  
Alessandra Pautasso ◽  
Veronica Bellavia ◽  
Valerio Carta ◽  
Alessio Ferrari ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
The Elderly ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Infectious Agents ◽  
Pcr Assay ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
At Risk Populations ◽  
Tick Borne Disease ◽  
Biomolecular Analysis

Abstract Background Tick-borne diseases are common throughout Europe. Ticks transmit pathogens to the host while feeding and together with mosquitoes, they are major vectors of infectious agents worldwide. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the incidence of tick-bite events and tick-borne disease in northwest Italy, but information on the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in ticks removed from humans remains scarce. To fill this gap, we report here the prevalence of tick bites and tick-borne pathogens documented for humans in Piedmont, northwest Italy, in the 3-year period 2017–2019. Methods Ticks attached to humans during 2017–2019 were collected from residents of urban and rural area by physicians and veterinarians working with local veterinary agencies. All ticks (n = 1290) were morphologically identified to the species level. A subset of ticks removed from children (age 0–18 years) and the elderly (> 70 years), both age groups considered to be at-risk populations, was screened by biomolecular analysis to detect pathogens (e.g. Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., Anaplasma spp.). Pathogen identity was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Results Ticks were taxonomically assigned to ten species of six genera (Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, Ixodes and Rhipicephalus). Most belonged to the genus Ixodes: 1009 ticks (78.22%) were classified as Ixodes ricinus. A subset of 500 ticks collected from the two at-risk populations were subjected to PCR assay to determine the presence of Rickettsia spp., Borrelia spp., and Anaplasma spp. The overall prevalence of infection was 22.8% (n = 114; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 19.19–26.73%), meaning that at least one pathogen was detected: Rickettsia spp. (prevalence 15%, n = 76; 95% CI 12.17–18.65%); Borrelia spp. (prevalence 6.4%, n = 32; 95% CI 4.42–8.92%); and Anaplasma spp. (prevalence 1.2%, n = 6; 95% CI 0.44–2.6%). Conclusions Our data underline the importance of surveillance in the epidemiology of tick-borne diseases and the implementation of strategies to control tick infestation and associated pathogens.

Acceptability of blood-based HIV self-testing among adolescents aged 15–19 years at risk of HIV acquisition in Bangkok

2021 ◽  
pp. 095646242110037
Author(s):  
Pongpak Phongphiew ◽  
Wipaporn N Songtaweesin ◽  
Nantika Paiboon ◽  
Panyaphon Phiphatkhunarnon ◽  
Patchareeyawan Srimuan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Point Of Care ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Hiv Treatment ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sex With Men ◽  
Finger Stick ◽  
Hiv Acquisition ◽  
Risk Of Hiv Acquisition ◽  
Antibody Tests

Introduction: Young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and young transgender women (YTGW) in Thailand are at high HIV risk. HIV self-tests (HIVSTs) are rapidly administrable and prompt linkage to HIV treatment or prevention services. This study assesses the acceptability and feasibility of blood-based HIVST use in adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among YMSM and YTGW aged 15–19 years with HIV acquisition risk. Participants completed questionnaires on the HIVST and then administered INSTI® independently, an HIVST immunoassay detecting gp41 and gp36 antibodies from finger-stick blood. Confirmatory HIV antibody tests were performed. Results: Between July and September 2020, 90 adolescents were enrolled. Mean (SD) age was 17.6 (1.1) years. Half ( N = 45) were YMSM. Forty-six (51%) were first-time HIV testers, and 32 (36%) had “ever used” HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Two (2.2%, 95% CI: 0.0–5.3) tested positive, 21 (23.4%) invalid, and 67 (74.4%) negative. Invalidity causes included 17 (81%) insufficient blood, 3 (14%) buffer spillage, and 1 (5%) procedural missteps; all had negative HIV antibody tests. HIV self-test acceptability was 87.8% (95% CI: 81.0–94.5). Most (79%) preferred HIVST performance in hospital rather than at home. Conclusions: HIVSTs are acceptable in HIV at-risk adolescents. Blood-based HIVSTs should be positioned as rapid point-of-care tests with real-time linkage to HIV services.

scholarly journals Suicide and religion

2014 ◽  
Vol 204 (4) ◽  
pp. 254-255 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christopher C. H. Cook
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Prospective Study ◽  
Protective Factor ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Completed Suicide ◽  
Cross Sectional Studies ◽  
The Relationship

SummaryMuch of the evidence that religion provides a protective factor against completed suicide comes from cross-sectional studies. This issue of the Journal includes a report of a new prospective study. An understanding of the relationship between spirituality, religion and suicide is important in assessing and caring for those at risk.

scholarly journals Will an innovative connected AideSmart! app-based multiplex, point-of-care screening strategy for HIV and related coinfections affect timely quality antenatal screening of rural Indian women? Results from a cross-sectional study in India

2018 ◽  
Vol 95 (2) ◽  
pp. 133-139 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nitika Pant Pai ◽  
Jana Daher ◽  
HR Prashanth ◽  
Achal Shetty ◽  
Rani Diana Sahni ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Point Of Care ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Screening Strategy ◽  
Antenatal Screening ◽  
Mother To Child Transmission ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Child Transmission ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Indian Women ◽  
Mother To Child

ObjectivesIn rural pregnant Indian women, multiple missed antenatal screening opportunities due to inadequate public health facility-based screening result in undiagnosed HIV and sexually transmitted bloodborne infections (STBBIs) and conditions (anaemia). Untreated infections complicate pregnancy management, precipitate adverse outcomes and risk mother-to-child transmission. Additionally, a shortage of trained doctors, rural women’s preference for home delivery and health illiteracy affect health service delivery. To address these issues, we developed AideSmart!, an innovative, app-based, cloud-connected, rapid screening strategy that offers multiplex screening for STBBIs and anaemia at the point of care. It offers connectivity, integration, expedited communications and linkages to clinical care throughout pregnancy.MethodsIn a cross-sectional study, we evaluated the AideSmart! strategy for feasibility, acceptability, preference and impact. We trained 15 healthcare professionals (HCPs) to offer the AideSmart! strategy to 510 pregnant women presenting for care to outreach rural service units of Christian Medical College, Vellore, India.ResultsWith the AideSmart! screening strategy, we recorded an acceptability of 100% (510/510), feasibility (completion rate) of 91.6% (466/510) and preference of 73%. We detected 239 infections/conditions (239/510, 46.8%) at the point-of-care, of which 168 (168/239; 70%) were lab confirmed, staged and treated rapidly. Of the 168 confirmed infections/conditions, 127 were anaemia, 11 Trichomonas and 30 hepatitis B virus (HBV) (25 resolved naturally, 5 active infections). Four infants (4/5; 80%) were prophylaxed for HBV and were declared disease-free at 9 months. Recruited participants were young; mean age was 24 years (range: 17–40) and 74% (376/510) were in their second trimester. Furthermore, 95% of the participants were retained throughout their pregnancy.ConclusionThe AideSmart! strategy was deemed feasible to operationalise by HCPs. It was accepted and preferred by participants, resulting in timely screening and treatment of HIV/STIs and anaemia, preventing mother-to-child transmission. The strategy could be reverse-innovated to any context to maximise its health impact.

Minerals Intake Distributions in a Large Sample of Iranian at-Risk Population Using the National Cancer Institute Method: Do They Meet Their Requirements?

2015 ◽  
Vol 85 (3-4) ◽  
pp. 129-144 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zahra Heidari ◽  
Awat Feizi ◽  
Leila Azadbakht ◽  
Nizal Sarrafzadegan
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
National Cancer Institute ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Normal Function ◽  
Dietary Intakes ◽  
Middle Aged ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Nutritional Interventions ◽  
High Prevalence

Abstract. Background: Minerals are required for the body’s normal function. Aim: The current study assessed the intake distribution of minerals and estimated the prevalence of inadequacy and excess among a representative sample of healthy middle aged and elderly Iranian people. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the second follow up to the Isfahan Cohort Study (ICS), 1922 generally healthy people aged 40 and older were investigated. Dietary intakes were collected using 24 hour recalls and two or more consecutive food records. Distribution of minerals intake was estimated using traditional (averaging dietary intake days) and National Cancer Institute (NCI) methods, and the results obtained from the two methods, were compared. The prevalence of minerals intake inadequacy or excess was estimated using the estimated average requirement (EAR) cut-point method, the probability approach and the tolerable upper intake levels (UL). Results: There were remarkable differences between values obtained using traditional and NCI methods, particularly in the lower and upper percentiles of the estimated intake distributions. A high prevalence of inadequacy of magnesium (50 - 100 %), calcium (21 - 93 %) and zinc (30 - 55 % for males > 50 years) was observed. Significant gender differences were found regarding inadequate intakes of calcium (21 - 76 % for males vs. 45 - 93 % for females), magnesium (92 % vs. 100 %), iron (0 vs. 15 % for age group 40 - 50 years) and zinc (29 - 55 % vs. 0 %) (all; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Severely imbalanced intakes of magnesium, calcium and zinc were observed among the middle-aged and elderly Iranian population. Nutritional interventions and population-based education to improve healthy diets among the studied population at risk are needed.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document