-
PloS One 2020Currently, various tools exist to evaluate knowledge and awareness of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and are applied by various organizations....
BACKGROUND
Currently, various tools exist to evaluate knowledge and awareness of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and are applied by various organizations. Previous systematic reviews have focused mainly on study findings such as levels of knowledge and AMR awareness. However, the survey procedures and data instruments used ought to be scrutinized as well, since they are important contributors to credible results. This review aims to assess the study methods and procedures of existing population-based surveys and explore key components which determine the general population's levels of knowledge and awareness of antibiotic use and AMR.
METHODS
We searched existing literature for population -based surveys which sought knowledge and awareness of antibiotic use or AMR in the general population. Databases searched included Ovid, MEDLINE and EMBASE, PsycINFO and Scopus, domestic journals and gray literature sources. Population-based cross-sectional studies published in English or Thai from January 2000 to December 2018 were included in the review. Quality assessment was conducted using the 'Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies' (AXIS).
RESULTS
All 22 studies included in the analysis had clear objectives focusing on assessing people's levels of knowledge, awareness, attitudes and behavior relating to antibiotic use and awareness of AMR. These studies had employed appropriate methodologies for population-based cross-sectional surveys relative to research questions. More than half of studies (14 out of 22) had scientifically soundly designed methodologies which captured the representativeness of the population; whereas the remaining studies had unclear sample size estimations, inappropriate sample frames and selection biases. Half of the studies had tested the validity and reliability of the questionnaire. The common questions used by these surveys were categorized into four themes: behavior related to antibiotic use, knowledge and awareness of antibiotic use, knowledge and awareness of AMR and others such as receiving information about antibiotic use and AMR or cross-cutting issues like self-medication.
CONCLUSION
This review identified four key features of good practices in antibiotic use and awareness surveys: a) clear survey objective; b) scientifically sound sampling techniques ensuring representativeness; c) strategies for recruitment of samples and survey administration methods; and d) credible measurement to prevent non-sampling biases. During questionnaire design, the health systems context in terms of access to health services and antibiotics should be taken into account. In conclusion, to maximize the use of surveys, the application of findings in surveys and associated factors related to antibiotic use and AMR should primarily generate public health interventions and target specific groups to make progress in solving AMR problems.
Topics: Anti-Bacterial Agents; Awareness; Bacterial Infections; Databases, Factual; Drug Resistance, Bacterial; Drug Resistance, Microbial; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Surveys and Questionnaires; Thailand
PubMed: 31945117
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0227973 -
American Journal of Medical Genetics.... Jul 2014Prevalence estimates for fragile X syndrome vary considerably. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to provide an accurate prevalence estimate for this... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Prevalence estimates for fragile X syndrome vary considerably. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to provide an accurate prevalence estimate for this disorder using primary publications in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library. Data were pooled using Bayesian fixed-effects and random-effects models. Primary analyses assessed the frequency of the full mutation and premutation in males and females in the total population (no bias against individuals with intellectual disability) and in female carriers of the premutation in normal populations (biased against individuals with intellectual disability), based on diagnosis by polymerase chain reaction or Southern blotting. A sensitivity analysis included studies using any diagnostic testing method and conference abstracts. Sixty-eight recorded observations provided data for the primary (56 observations) and sensitivity (12 observations) analysis. Using the random-effects model, frequency of the full mutation was 1.4 (95% CI: 0.1-3.1) per 10,000 males and 0.9 (95% CI: 0.0-2.9) per 10,000 females (1:7,143 and 1:11,111, respectively) in the total population. The premutation frequency was 11.7 (95% CI: 6.0-18.7) per 10,000 males and 34.4 (95% CI: 6.3-83.3) per 10,000 for females (1:855 and 1:291, respectively) in the total population. The prevalence of female carriers of the premutation in the normal population was 34.4 (95% CI: 8.9-60.3) per 10,000, or 1:291. Sensitivity analyses resulted in similar prevalence estimates but with wider heterogeneity. Prevalence estimates for the full mutation from this meta-analysis are lower than those in previous reviews of fragile X syndrome epidemiological data.
Topics: Female; Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein; Fragile X Syndrome; Heterozygote; Humans; Intellectual Disability; Male; Mutation; Population Surveillance; Prevalence; Sex Factors
PubMed: 24700618
DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.36511 -
Pediatrics Sep 2014Global developmental delay and intellectual disability are relatively common pediatric conditions. This report describes the recommended clinical genetics diagnostic... (Review)
Review
Global developmental delay and intellectual disability are relatively common pediatric conditions. This report describes the recommended clinical genetics diagnostic approach. The report is based on a review of published reports, most consisting of medium to large case series of diagnostic tests used, and the proportion of those that led to a diagnosis in such patients. Chromosome microarray is designated as a first-line test and replaces the standard karyotype and fluorescent in situ hybridization subtelomere tests for the child with intellectual disability of unknown etiology. Fragile X testing remains an important first-line test. The importance of considering testing for inborn errors of metabolism in this population is supported by a recent systematic review of the literature and several case series recently published. The role of brain MRI remains important in certain patients. There is also a discussion of the emerging literature on the use of whole-exome sequencing as a diagnostic test in this population. Finally, the importance of intentional comanagement among families, the medical home, and the clinical genetics specialty clinic is discussed.
Topics: Developmental Disabilities; Disability Evaluation; Female; Humans; Intellectual Disability; Karyotyping; Male
PubMed: 25157020
DOI: 10.1542/peds.2014-1839 -
Gut Jul 2010Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS, MIM175200) is an autosomal dominant condition defined by the development of characteristic polyps throughout the gastrointestinal tract and...
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS, MIM175200) is an autosomal dominant condition defined by the development of characteristic polyps throughout the gastrointestinal tract and mucocutaneous pigmentation. The majority of patients that meet the clinical diagnostic criteria have a causative mutation in the STK11 gene, which is located at 19p13.3. The cancer risks in this condition are substantial, particularly for breast and gastrointestinal cancer, although ascertainment and publication bias may have led to overestimates in some publications. Current surveillance protocols are controversial and not evidence-based, due to the relative rarity of the condition. Initially, endoscopies are more likely to be done to detect polyps that may be a risk for future intussusception or obstruction rather than cancers, but surveillance for the various cancers for which these patients are susceptible is an important part of their later management. This review assesses the current literature on the clinical features and management of the condition, genotype-phenotype studies, and suggested guidelines for surveillance and management of individuals with PJS. The proposed guidelines contained in this article have been produced as a consensus statement on behalf of a group of European experts who met in Mallorca in 2007 and who have produced guidelines on the clinical management of Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Breast Neoplasms; Child; Child, Preschool; Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal; Evidence-Based Medicine; Female; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Genital Neoplasms, Female; Genotype; Humans; Long-Term Care; Male; Mass Screening; Middle Aged; Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome; Phenotype; Population Surveillance; Young Adult
PubMed: 20581245
DOI: 10.1136/gut.2009.198499 -
Neurotoxicology Jul 2017A systematic review was conducted to identify risk factors associated with the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Moderate and high quality systematic... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
A systematic review was conducted to identify risk factors associated with the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Moderate and high quality systematic reviews were eligible for inclusion. Primary studies reporting on non-genetic risk factors associated with neuropathologically or clinically confirmed AD were considered. Eighty one systematic reviews reporting on AD onset and 12 reporting on progression satisfied the eligibility criteria. Four hundred and thirty-two relevant primary studies reporting on onset were identified; however, only those published between 2010 and 2012 (n=65) were included in the qualitative synthesis. Several factors including statins, light-to-moderate alcohol consumption, compliance with a Mediterranean diet, higher educational attainment, physically and cognitively stimulating activities, and APOE ε2 appeared to be associated with a decreased risk of AD onset. The evidence was suggestive of an increased risk of AD associated with head injury in males, age, diabetes mellitus, conjugated equine estrogen use with medroxyprogesterone acetate, current smoking, and lower social engagement. With respect to genetic factors, APOE ε4 remained the strongest predictor of AD. Physical and cognitive activities were associated with a beneficial effect on cognitive function and other indicators of dementia progression while higher educational attainment was associated with faster cognitive decline. Although suggestive of an association, the current evidence for a majority of the identified putative factors for AD onset and progression was weak, at best due to conflicting findings across studies or inadequate evidence. Further research is required to confirm the etiological or protective role of a number of risk factors.
Topics: Age of Onset; Alzheimer Disease; Apolipoprotein E4; Disease Progression; Humans; Risk Factors
PubMed: 28363508
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2017.03.006 -
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics Apr 2020BRCA mutation carriers have an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Oral contraception (OC) is known to increase breast cancer and reduce ovarian... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
BRCA mutation carriers have an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Oral contraception (OC) is known to increase breast cancer and reduce ovarian cancer risk in the general population. This review analyses the published data on OC and risk of cancer in BRCA mutation carriers.
METHODS
We included all relevant articles published in English from 1995 to 2018. Literature was identified through a search on PubMed and Cochrane Library.
RESULTS
We included four meta-analyses, one review, one case-control study and one retrospective cohort study on the association between ovarian cancer and OC in BRCA mutation carriers. All report a risk reduction for the OC users and several also describe an inverse correlation with duration of use. Regarding breast cancer, we included four meta-analyses, one review, one case-control study, two case-only studies, one prospective and one retrospective cohort study. Some studies report a risk elevation, while others did not find an association between OC use and breast cancer in BRCA mutation carriers. In other studies, the association was limited to early-onset breast cancer and/or associated with young age at first start of OC.
CONCLUSION
Oral contraception leads to a risk reduction of ovarian cancer also in BRCA mutation carriers. An increase in breast cancer risk due to OC cannot be excluded. Women with BRCA mutation who consider OC use have to be informed about possible increase in breast cancer risk and alternative contraceptive methods. OC should not be used for the prevention of ovarian cancer in this population.
Topics: Adult; Breast Neoplasms; Case-Control Studies; Contraceptives, Oral; Female; Humans; Mutation; Ovarian Neoplasms; Prospective Studies; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 32140806
DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05458-w -
Marine Environmental Research Jan 2023Coral reefs are the most diverse marine ecosystems. However, coral cover has decreased worldwide due to natural disturbances, climate change, and local anthropogenic... (Review)
Review
Coral reefs are the most diverse marine ecosystems. However, coral cover has decreased worldwide due to natural disturbances, climate change, and local anthropogenic drivers. In recent decades, various genetic methods and molecular markers have been developed to assess genetic diversity, structure, and connectivity in different coral species to determine the vulnerability of their populations. This review aims to identify population genetic studies of scleractinian corals in the last decade (2010-2020), and the techniques and molecular markers used. Bibliometric analysis was conducted to identify journals and authors working in this field. We then calculated the number of genetic studies by species and ecoregion based on data obtained from 178 studies found in Scopus and Web of Science. Coral Reefs and Molecular Ecology were the main journals published population genetics studies, and microsatellites are the most widely used molecular markers. The Caribbean, Australian Barrier Reef, and South Kuroshio in Japan are among the ecoregions with the most population genetics data. In contrast, we found limited information about the Coral Triangle, a region with the highest biodiversity and key to coral reef conservation. Notably, only 117 (out of 1500 described) scleractinian coral species have genetic studies. This review emphasizes which coral species have been studied and highlights remaining gaps and locations where such data is critical for coral conservation.
Topics: Animals; Anthozoa; Ecosystem; Australia; Coral Reefs; Genetics, Population
PubMed: 36371949
DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2022.105781 -
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.) Sep 2021To identify and assess the quality and accuracy of prognostic models for nephropathy and to validate these models in external cohorts of people with type 2 diabetes.
OBJECTIVES
To identify and assess the quality and accuracy of prognostic models for nephropathy and to validate these models in external cohorts of people with type 2 diabetes.
DESIGN
Systematic review and external validation.
DATA SOURCES
PubMed and Embase.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Studies describing the development of a model to predict the risk of nephropathy, applicable to people with type 2 diabetes.
METHODS
Screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were done in duplicate. Eligible models were externally validated in the Hoorn Diabetes Care System (DCS) cohort (n=11 450) for the same outcomes for which they were developed. Risks of nephropathy were calculated and compared with observed risk over 2, 5, and 10 years of follow-up. Model performance was assessed based on intercept adjusted calibration and discrimination (Harrell's C statistic).
RESULTS
41 studies included in the systematic review reported 64 models, 46 of which were developed in a population with diabetes and 18 in the general population including diabetes as a predictor. The predicted outcomes included albuminuria, diabetic kidney disease, chronic kidney disease (general population), and end stage renal disease. The reported apparent discrimination of the 46 models varied considerably across the different predicted outcomes, from 0.60 (95% confidence interval 0.56 to 0.64) to 0.99 (not available) for the models developed in a diabetes population and from 0.59 (not available) to 0.96 (0.95 to 0.97) for the models developed in the general population. Calibration was reported in 31 of the 41 studies, and the models were generally well calibrated. 21 of the 64 retrieved models were externally validated in the Hoorn DCS cohort for predicting risk of albuminuria, diabetic kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease, with considerable variation in performance across prediction horizons and models. For all three outcomes, however, at least two models had C statistics >0.8, indicating excellent discrimination. In a secondary external validation in GoDARTS (Genetics of Diabetes Audit and Research in Tayside Scotland), models developed for diabetic kidney disease outperformed those for chronic kidney disease. Models were generally well calibrated across all three prediction horizons.
CONCLUSIONS
This study identified multiple prediction models to predict albuminuria, diabetic kidney disease, chronic kidney disease, and end stage renal disease. In the external validation, discrimination and calibration for albuminuria, diabetic kidney disease, and chronic kidney disease varied considerably across prediction horizons and models. For each outcome, however, specific models showed good discrimination and calibration across the three prediction horizons, with clinically accessible predictors, making them applicable in a clinical setting.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
PROSPERO CRD42020192831.
Topics: Aged; Albuminuria; Calibration; Clinical Decision Rules; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Diabetic Nephropathies; Female; Humans; Kidney Failure, Chronic; Male; Middle Aged; Predictive Value of Tests; Prognosis; Renal Insufficiency, Chronic; Reproducibility of Results; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors
PubMed: 34583929
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.n2134 -
Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical... Jul 2021BRCA mutation carriers have an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (RRBSO) is associated with a decrease...
PURPOSE
BRCA mutation carriers have an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Risk-reducing bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (RRBSO) is associated with a decrease in risk for tubal and ovarian cancer. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may increase breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancer risk in the general population. This review analyses the published data on HRT and risk of cancer in BRCA mutation carriers with and without RRBSO.
METHODS
We included all relevant articles published in English from 1995 to October 2020. Sources were identified through a search on PubMed and Cochrane Library.
RESULTS
We included one case-control and one retrospective cohort study on ovarian and one case-control study on endometrial cancer risk and HRT in BRCA mutation carriers. Regarding breast cancer risk, one case-control study on BRCA mutation carriers with and without RRBSO and one case-control study, one Markov chain decision model, two prospective cohort studies, and one metaanalysis on carriers after RRBSO were included. For ovarian cancer, results were ambiguous. For breast cancer, most studies did not find an adverse effect associated with HRT. However, some of the studies found a risk modification associated with different formulations and duration of use.
CONCLUSION
Although data are limited, HRT does not seem to have a relevant effect on cancer risk in BRCA mutation carriers. RRBSO should not be postponed to avoid subsequent HRT in this population. Adequate HRT after RRBSO should be offered to avoid chronic diseases resulting from low estrogen levels. However, further data on the safety of different formulations are needed.
Topics: BRCA1 Protein; BRCA2 Protein; Breast Neoplasms; Endometrial Neoplasms; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Heterozygote; Hormone Replacement Therapy; Humans; Mutation; Ovarian Neoplasms
PubMed: 33885953
DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03629-z -
Biological Reviews of the Cambridge... Aug 2017The grey wolf (Canis lupus) is an iconic large carnivore that has increasingly been recognized as an apex predator with intrinsic value and a keystone species. However,... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
The grey wolf (Canis lupus) is an iconic large carnivore that has increasingly been recognized as an apex predator with intrinsic value and a keystone species. However, wolves have also long represented a primary source of human-carnivore conflict, which has led to long-term persecution of wolves, resulting in a significant decrease in their numbers, genetic diversity and gene flow between populations. For more effective protection and management of wolf populations in Europe, robust scientific evidence is crucial. This review serves as an analytical summary of the main findings from wolf population genetic studies in Europe, covering major studies from the 'pre-genomic era' and the first insights of the 'genomics era'. We analyse, summarize and discuss findings derived from analyses of three compartments of the mammalian genome with different inheritance modes: maternal (mitochondrial DNA), paternal (Y chromosome) and biparental [autosomal microsatellites and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)]. To describe large-scale trends and patterns of genetic variation in European wolf populations, we conducted a meta-analysis based on the results of previous microsatellite studies and also included new data, covering all 19 European countries for which wolf genetic information is available: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Belarus, Russia, Italy, Croatia, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Spain and Portugal. We compared different indices of genetic diversity in wolf populations and found a significant spatial trend in heterozygosity across Europe from south-west (lowest genetic diversity) to north-east (highest). The range of spatial autocorrelation calculated on the basis of three characteristics of genetic diversity was 650-850 km, suggesting that the genetic diversity of a given wolf population can be influenced by populations up to 850 km away. As an important outcome of this synthesis, we discuss the most pressing issues threatening wolf populations in Europe, highlight important gaps in current knowledge, suggest solutions to overcome these limitations, and provide recommendations for science-based wolf conservation and management at regional and Europe-wide scales.
Topics: Animals; Conservation of Natural Resources; Europe; Genetic Variation; Genetics, Population; Microsatellite Repeats; Wolves
PubMed: 27682639
DOI: 10.1111/brv.12298