1.  Title: Consanguinity and reproductive wastage in the Palestinian Territories. Author: Assaf S; Khawaja M; DeJong J; Mahfoud Z; Yunis K Source: Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology. 2009 Mar;23(2):107-15. Abstract: Many studies have found that consanguinity poses a threat to child mortality and health and can also pose a threat to offspring survival before birth. However, there are conflicting findings with some studies having found no increased risk on offspring survival associated with consanguinity. Data from a population-based survey conducted in 2004 in the Palestinian Territories was used to assess the risk of consanguinity on offspring survival. The analysis was conducted on 4418 women aged 15-49 who were asked whether or not they had experienced a stillbirth or a spontaneous abortion. These two outcomes were combined together for the analysis of reproductive wastage. Multivariable negative binomial regression was conducted to calculate the incidence risk ratios (IRR) for each region in the Palestinian Territories separately. The strongest risk factors for reproductive wastage, after controlling for other variables, were found to be consanguinity, age and parity with age presenting the highest IRRs. Standard of living, locality type, education level, women's employment and past intrauterine device use were not found to be significant risk factors for reproductive wastage. In the West Bank only first cousin level of consanguinity was found to be significant and 'hamola' level (or from same family clan) lost its significance after adjusting for other variables. In the Gaza Strip both the first cousin and 'hamola' levels of consanguinity were significant and presented almost equal IRRs of 1.3. In conclusion, consanguinity was found to be a significant risk factor for reproductive wastage. Language: English Keywords: MIDDLE EAST | RESEARCH REPORT | RISK ASSESSMENT | ABORTION, SPONTANEOUS | FETAL DEATH | MATERNAL AGE | CONSANGUINITY | RISK FACTORS | CHILD MORTALITY | Evaluation | Pregnancy Complications | Diseases | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parental Age | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Genetics | Biology | Health Document Number: 331057 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Comparison of laboratory methods for analysis of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance in Ugandan infants. Author: Church JD; Huang W; Parkin N; Marlowe N; Guay LA; Omer SB; Musoke P; Jackson JB; Eshleman SH Source: AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses. 2009 Jul;25(7):657-63. Abstract: Detailed comparisons of HIV drug resistance assays are needed to identify the most useful assays for research studies, and to facilitate comparison of results from studies that use different methods. We analyzed nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) resistance in 40 HIV-infected Ugandan infants who had received nevirapine (NVP)-based prophylaxis using the following assays: an FDA-cleared HIV genotyping assay (the ViroSeq HIV-1 Genotyping System v2.0), a commercially available HIV genotyping assay (GeneSeq HIV), a commercially available HIV phenotyping assay (PhenoSense HIV), and a sensitive point mutation assay (LigAmp). ViroSeq and GeneSeq HIV results (NVP resistance yes/no) were similar for 38 (95%) of 40 samples. In 6 (15%) of 40 samples, GeneSeq HIV detected mutations in minor subpopulations that were not detected by ViroSeq, which identified two additional infants with NVP resistance. LigAmp detected low-level mutations in 12 samples that were not detected by ViroSeq; however, LigAmp testing identified only one additional infant with NVP resistance. GeneSeq HIV and PhenoSense HIV determinations of susceptibility differed for specific NNRTIs in 12 (31%) of the 39 samples containing mixtures at relevant mutation positions. PhenoSense HIV did not detect any infants with NVP resistance who were not identified with GeneSeq HIV testing. In this setting, population sequencing-based methods (ViroSeq and GeneSeq HIV) were the most informative and had concordant results for 95% of the samples. LigAmp was useful for the detection and quantification of minority variants. PhenoSense HIV provided a direct and quantitative measure of NNRTI susceptibility. Language: English Keywords: UGANDA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | INFANT | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV | POPULATION GENETICS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | HIV TESTING | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 342880 |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Opportunity for natural selection among the Indian population: secular trend, covariates and implications. Author: Gautam RK Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 Jul 23;:1-41. Abstract: Crow's index is widely used for indirect quantitative estimation of natural selection using birth and death rates. The present investigation is based on 179 studies among 144 different endogamous communities belonging to nineteen states and six geographical regions of India, categorized into six social groups. These studies appeared in 33 different years over six decades (1956 to 2007). The secular trend in Crow's index (It) and its mortality and fertility components (Im and If) shows a gradual decline in It and radical shift in the relative contributions of Im and If. Before 1990 the opportunity for natural selection was mainly determined by differential pre-reproductive mortality (Im), whereas after 1990 it has been determined by differential fertility (If). To find out the covariates of It, Im and If sixteen socio-demographic variables were considered, and nine were found to be significantly correlated with It: total dependency ratio, decadal growth rate 1991-2001, young age dependency ratio, crude death rate, total fertility rate, child mortality rate, under-5 mortality rate, old age dependency ratio and decadal growth rate 1981-1991. On the basis of multivariate stepwise regression analysis, female literacy emerged as one of the most important predictors of It. The declining trend of It, Im and If shows that the Indian population is passing through the demographic transition. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICTS | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | TRIBES | MOTHERS | CASTE | POPULATION GENETICS | FERTILITY | MORTALITY | DEPENDENCY BURDEN | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Geographic Factors | Population | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Genetics | Biology | Population Dynamics | Microeconomic Factors Document Number: 342293 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Intergenerational effect of weight gain in childhood on offspring birthweight. Author: Horta BL; Gigante DP; Osmond C; Barros FC; Victora CG Source: International Journal of Epidemiology. 2009 Jun;38(3):724-32. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Some studies suggest that weight gain in childhood may increase the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood, and recent studies have noticed that the timing of weight gain may be related to its long-term consequence. However, weight gain in childhood has clear short-term benefits, and the literature on the pro and cons of weight gain in childhood is limited. METHODS: In 1982, all 5914 hospital births (over 99% of all deliveries) occurring in Pelotas, Southern Brazil, were identified and studied prospectively on several occasions. In 2004-05, we attempted to trace the whole cohort and information on offspring birthweight was collected. Conditional growth modelling was used to assess the association between offspring birthweight and weight gain from birth to 20 months, and from 20 to 42 months. RESULTS: In 2004-05, we interviewed 4297 subjects, with a follow-up rate of 77.4%. This manuscript includes data from 848 women who had already delivered a child and 525 men who were fathers at the mean age of 23 years. Maternal birthweight, weight and length for age Z-score at 20 months of age were positively associated with next-generation birthweight, whereas paternal variables were not related to the outcome. Conditional growth modelling analyses showed that women whose weight gain in the first 20 months of life was faster than predicted had heavier babies, whereas paternal weight gain was not associated. The association was strongest for mothers whose birthweight for gestational age was in the lowest tertile. CONCLUSION: Maternal, but not paternal birthweight and weight gain in early childhood are positively associated with next-generation birthweight. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | CHILDREN | BODY WEIGHT | POPULATION GENETICS | HEREDITARY DISEASES | OBESITY | BIRTH WEIGHT | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Physiology | Biology | Genetics | Diseases Document Number: 342506 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Consanguinity and family clustering of male factor infertility in Lebanon. Author: Inhorn MC; Kobeissi L; Nassar Z; Lakkis D; Fakih MH Source: Fertility and Sterility. 2009 Apr;91(4):1104-9. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of consanguineous marriage on male factor infertility in Lebanon, where rates of consanguineous marriage remain high (29.6% among Muslims, 16.5% among Christians). DESIGN: Clinic-based, case-control study, using reproductive history, risk factor interview, and laboratory-based semen analysis. SETTING: Two IVF clinics in Beirut, Lebanon, during an 8-month period (January-August 2003). PATIENT(S): One hundred twenty infertile male patients and 100 fertile male controls, distinguished by semen analysis and reproductive history. INTERVENTION(S): None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Standard clinical semen analysis. RESULT(S): The rates of consanguineous marriage were relatively high among the study sample. Patients (46%) were more likely than controls (37%) to report first-degree (parental) and second-degree (grandparental) consanguinity. The study demonstrated a clear pattern of family clustering of male factor infertility, with patients significantly more likely than controls to report infertility among close male relatives (odds ratio = 2.58). Men with azoospermia and severe oligospermia showed high rates of both consanguinity (50%) and family clustering (41%). CONCLUSION(S): Consanguineous marriage is a socially supported institution throughout the Muslim world, yet its relationship to infertility is poorly understood. This study demonstrated a significant association between consanguinity and family clustering of male factor infertility cases, suggesting a strong genetic component. Language: English Keywords: LEBANON | MIDDLE EAST | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | MEN | CONSANGUINITY | INFERTILITY | POPULATION GENETICS | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Reproduction Document Number: 341010 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: CONSANGUINEOUS MARRIAGES IN MOROCCO AND THE CONSEQUENCE FOR THE INCIDENCE OF AUTOSOMAL RECESSIVE DISORDERS. Author: Jaouad IC; Elalaoui SC; Sbiti A; Elkerh F; Belmahi L; Sefiani A Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 May 12;:1-7. Abstract: SummaryConsanguineous marriage is traditionally common throughout Arab countries. This leads to an increased birth prevalence of infants with recessive disorders, congenital malformations, morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of consanguineous marriage in families with autosomal recessive diseases, and to compare it with the average rate of consanguinity in the Moroccan population. The study was conducted in the Department of Medical Genetics in Rabat on 176 families with autosomal recessive diseases diagnosed and confirmed by clinical, radiological, enzymatic or molecular investigations. The rate of consanguinity was also studied in 852 families who had infants with trisomy 21 confirmed by karyotyping. These families were chosen because: (i) there is no association between trisomy 21 and consanguinity, (ii) these cases are referred from different regions of Morocco and (iii) they concern all social statuses. Among 176 families with autosomal recessive disorders, consanguineous marriages comprised 59.09% of all marriages. The prevalence of consanguinity in Morocco was found to be 15.25% with a mean inbreeding coefficient of 0.0065. The differences in the rates of consanguineous marriages were highly significant when comparing the general population and couples with offspring affected by autosomal recessive conditions. These results place Morocco among the countries in the world with high rates of consanguinity. Autosomal recessive disorders are strongly associated with consanguinity. This study better defines the health risks associated with consanguinity for the development of genetic educational guidelines targeted at the public and the health sector. Language: English Keywords: MOROCCO | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | COUPLES | CHILDREN | PREVALENCE | INCIDENCE | CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES | CONSANGUINITY | SOCIAL CLASS | BIRTH DEFECTS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Measurement | Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 341479 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Cases of HIV type 1 acute infection at STI-related clinics in Osaka. Author: Kojima Y; Kawahata T; Mori H Source: AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses. 2009 Jul;25(7):717-9. Abstract: Since 1992 we have investigated HIV antibodies in persons with a venereal disease who worked for a sex business or engaged in sexual behavior with a high risk of HIV infection at five clinics of venereology, urology, and gynecology in Osaka Prefecture. Starting at the end of 2000, we performed a nucleic acid-amplification test (NAT) on antibody-negative samples with the aim of detecting cases in the window period covering the early phase of infection. Three cases that were thought to be in this phase were found in 2006. All were confirmed to be positive in an NAT, although they were negative in initial screening for HIV performed using the IC method. Gene analysis of the env-C2V3 region of HIV-1 showed that the three samples had different origins. Language: English Keywords: JAPAN | RESEARCH REPORT | POPULATION GENETICS | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | HIV | HIV INFECTIONS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Genetics | Biology | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Viral Diseases | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 342888 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: PREVALENCE OF CONSANGUINEOUS MARRIAGES IN SYRIA. Author: Othman H; Saadat M Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 May 12;:1-8. Abstract: SummaryConsanguineous marriage is the union of individuals having at least one common ancestor. The present cross-sectional study was done in order to illustrate the prevalence and types of consanguineous marriages in the Syrian Arab Republic. Data on consanguineous marriages were collected using a simple questionnaire. The total number of couples in this study was 67,958 (urban areas: 36,574 couples; rural areas: 31,384 couples) from the following provinces: Damascus, Hamah, Tartous, Latakia, Al Raqa, Homs, Edlep and Aleppo. In each province urban and rural areas were surveyed. Consanguineous marriage was classified by the degree of relationship between couples: double first cousins (F=1/8), first cousins (F=1/16), second cousins (F=1/64) and beyond second cousins (F<1/64). The coefficient of inbreeding (F) was calculated for each couple and the mean coefficient of inbreeding (alpha) estimated for the population of each province, stratified by rural and urban areas. The results showed that the overall frequency of consanguinity was 30.3% in urban and 39.8% in rural areas. Total rate of consanguinity was found to be 35.4%. The equivalent mean inbreeding coefficient (alpha) was 0.0203 and 0.0265 in urban and rural areas, respectively. The mean proportion of consanguineous marriages ranged from 67.5% in Al Raqa province to 22.1% in Latakia province. The alpha-value ranged from 0.0358 to 0.0127 in these two provinces, respectively. The western and north-western provinces (including Tartous, Lattakia and Edlep) recorded lower levels of inbreeding than the central, northern and southern provinces. The overall alpha-value was estimated to be about 0.0236 for the studied populations. First cousin marriages (with 20.9%) were the most common type of consanguineous marriages, followed by double first cousin (with 7.8%) and second cousin marriages (with 3.3%), and beyond second cousin was the least common type. Language: English Keywords: SYRIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | HEALTH SURVEYS | COUPLES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | PREVALENCE | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | Developing Countries | Middle East | Research Methodology | Health | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Measurement | Geography | Social Sciences | Science Document Number: 341478 |
| 9. Title: Genetic counselling and genetic testing in hereditary gastrointestinal cancer syndromes. Author: Raymond VM; Everett JN Source: Best Practice and Research. Clinical Gastroenterology. 2009;23(2):275-83. Abstract: Up to 10% of cancers are caused by inherited mutations in single genes. The process of genetic counselling and genetic testing allows for identification of these high-risk individuals and their at risk family members and enrolment into appropriate screening protocols. The medical impact of genetic testing is evidenced by reduced morbidity and mortality, however, the impact on a personal or psychosocial level has been more difficult to evaluate. We present a review of the current literature regarding the role of genetic counselling and testing in the setting of gastrointestinal cancers and explore several related issues including risk perception and risk communication, family communication, psychosocial factors and decision making, and family planning. We also provide guidelines for referral to cancer genetics clinics and for promoting discussions about genetic counselling and genetic testing. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | MICHIGAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CANCER | HEREDITARY DISEASES | POPULATION GENETICS | COUNSELING | FAMILY PLANNING | COMMUNICATION | RISK FACTORS | GASTROINTESTINAL EFFECTS | TESTING | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Neoplasms | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Health | Physiology | Measurement | Research Methodology Document Number: 342072 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Modernization or cultural maintenance: The practice of consanguineous marriage in Iran. Author: Abbasi-Shavazi MJ; McDonald P; Hosseini-Chavoshi M Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Nov;40(6):911-933. Abstract: Consanguineous marriage has been the culturally preferred form of marriage in Iran. This paper examines the extent to which education, urbanization and changes in modes of economic production have affected the incidence of consanguineous marriage and attitudes towards consanguineous marriages. The 2002 Iran Fertility Transition Survey conducted in the four provinces of Gilan, Sistan and Baluchistan, Yazd and West Azarbaijan provides information on the degree of relationship of marriage partners from around 6550 ever-married women aged 15-49. Attitudinal data were also obtained. Overall, the level of marriage to biological relatives ranged from 23% in Gilan to 78% in Sistan and Baluchistan. The paper finds that the practice of marriage to biological relatives has remained surprisingly resilient in the face of modernizing influences and that ethnicity, province and area of residence remain important determinants. On the other hand, attitudes have shifted towards marriage with a non-relative. Anthropological research would illuminate the processes of consanguineous marriage in Iran. (author's) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | SOCIAL CHANGE | MODERNIZATION | ATTITUDES | ETHNIC GROUPS | CULTURAL BACKGROUND | Developing Countries | Middle East | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Population Characteristics Document Number: 325830 |
| 11. Title: Is consanguineous marriage religiously encouraged? Author reply [letter] Author: Akrami SM Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Jan;40(1):155. Abstract: I thank Dr M. Saadat for taking the time to carefully read this article and for making helpful comments. After studying his input, I believe he is in agreement with our conclusion that there is no encouragement of consanguineous marriage in the Islamic context. As he stated, it highlights the importance of the historical background of such practice in some parts of Iran. However, I believe this statement may not be applicable to the entire country. He is right with his second comment regarding Imam Ali and the Fatima family relationship. (full text) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | CRITIQUE | COUPLES | ISLAM | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | Developing Countries | Middle East | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Religion | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 322458 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Complexity of the msp2 locus and the severity of childhood malaria, in south-western Nigeria. Author: Amodu OK; Oyedeji SI; Ntoumi F; Orimadegun AE; Gbadegesin RA Source: Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology. 2008;102(2):95-102. Abstract: As the genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum infections in humans is implicated in the pathogenesis of malaria, the association between P. falciparum diversity at the merozoite surface protein-2 (msp2) locus and the severity of childhood malaria was investigated in Ibadan, in south-western Nigeria. The 400 children enrolled had acute uncomplicated malaria (144), cerebral malaria (64), severe malarial anaemia (67) or asymptomatic infections with P. falciparum (125). Nested PCR was used to investigate the msp2 genotype(s) of the parasites infecting each child. In terms of the complexity of infection and frequency of polyinfection, the children with asymptomatic infection were significantly different from those with uncomplicated malaria or severe malaria. The median number of FC27 alleles detected was higher in the asymptomatic children than in the symptomatic. After controlling for age and level of parasitaemia (with 'asymptomatic infection' as the reference category), a child in whom no FC27 alleles were detected was found to be at five-fold greater risk of uncomplicated malaria, and a child without polyinfection was found to have a three-fold increased risk of severe malarial anaemia and a six-fold increased risk of cerebral malaria. It therefore appears that msp2 genotypes are associated with asymptomatic carriage and that children with mono-infections are more likely to develop severe malaria than children with polyinfections. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | STATISTICAL STUDIES | CHILD | MALARIA | POPULATION GENETICS | PARASITIC DISEASES | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Studies | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 325067 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Risk factors for low birthweight in the public-hospitals at Peshawar, NWFP Pakistan. Author: Badshah S; Mason L; McKelvie K; Payne R; Lisboa PJ Source: BMC Public Health. 2008;8(197):[24] p. Abstract: Low birthweight is a widely used indicator of newborn health. This study investigates the association of birthweight less than 2.5kg (LBW) with a wide range of factors related to geodemographics, maternal health and pregnancy history in public hospitals at Peshawar, North West Frontier Province (NWFP) Pakistan. It is noted that that Low birthweight may arise for two different reasons, one related to gestational age and the other corresponding to births that are small for gestational age (SGA). Data on geo-demographics, maternal health indicators, pregnancy history and outcome scores for newborn babies and their families (n=1039) were collected prospectively between August and November 2003 in a cross-sectional survey of four public hospitals in Peshawar, NWFP-Pakistan. Crude and adjusted odds ratios were used to investigate the factors affecting incidence of LBW, by multivariate logistic regression. Gestational age was included as an explanatory variable therefore the additional covariates identified by model selection are expected to account for SGA. The main geo-demographic risk factors for SGA identified in this study, controlling for gestational age of less than 37 weeks, are maternal age, nationality and consanguinity. Presentation with anaemia and the history of previous abortion/miscarriage were also found to be significant independent factors. The adjusted odds ratio for gestational age showed the largest effect in explaining the incidence of LBW. The next highest odds ratio was for maternal age below 20 years. The explanatory model included two pairwise interactions, for which the predicted incidence figures for LBW show an increase among the Tribal area with presentation of anaemia, and among full term babies with their mothers having a previous history of abortion/miscarriage. In addition to gestational age, specific factors related to geo-demographics (maternal age, consanguinity and nationality), maternal health (anaemia) and pregnancy history (abortion/miscarriage) were significantly associated with the incidence of LBW observed at the four hospitals surveyed in Peshawar. These results indicate that cultural factors can adversely affect the incidence of SGA in this area of Pakistan. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | INFANT | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | MATERNAL AGE | MATERNAL HEALTH | CONSANGUINITY | ANEMIA | ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY | ETHNIC GROUPS | PREGNANCY HISTORY | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Biology | Parental Age | Health | Genetics | Diseases | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Cultural Background | Fertility Measurements | Pregnancy | Reproduction Document Number: 327024 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: The epidemic origin and molecular properties of B': a founder strain of the HIV-1 transmission in Asia. Author: Deng X; Liu H; Shao Y; Rayner S; Yang R Source: AIDS. 2008 Sep 12;22(14):1851-8. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To clarify the epidemic origin and molecular properties of the B' subtype that is an important strain in the HIV-1 epidemic in Asia. DESIGN: The genealogical relationship between the B' and B subtype was investigated with two globally representative datasets covering the gag and env regions. B' sequences were identified, from which the epidemic origin, population genetics and the signature mutation sites of the B' subtype were inferred. METHODS: Two globally representative datasets were compiled, using phylogenetic methods. Through coalescent-based analysis, the genealogical relationship between the B' and B subtypes was investigated. The divergence times and population genetic parameters of B' were estimated in a Bayesian framework using Markov Chains Monte Carlo sampling under a relaxed molecular clock method. Additionally, molecular properties of the B' were identified by performing comparative sequence analysis with the HIV-1 M group. RESULTS: About 15 years later after the B subtype began to spread, the B' diverged from the B subtype. The demographic history of B' was reconstructed, and the epidemic of B' was estimated to originate around 1985. Eight and nine distinct signature mutation sites, unique to B', were found around the p17 and V3 regions, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our research is the first large-scale investigation on HIV-1 B' at a global level and provides a deep insight into one of the founder strains of HIV-1 epidemic in Asia. Our results provide an important reference for HIV scientists, public health officials and HIV vaccine designers. Language: English Keywords: ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | HIV | POPULATION GENETICS | Developing Countries | Public Health | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 328795 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: A society in transition [letter] Author: Ellis C Source: South African Medical Journal. 2008 Jul;98(7):529. Abstract: Language: English Keywords: MIDDLE EAST | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | IMMIGRANTS | DIABETES | PREVALENCE | HIV INFECTIONS | HIV TESTING | CULTURE | DIET | CONSANGUINITY | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 328509 |
16.  Peer Reviewed Title: Opinions on early-age marriage and marriage customs among Kurdish-speaking women in southeast Turkey. Author: Ertem M; Kocturk T Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2008 Jul;34(3):147-152. Abstract: For women, marriage before the age of 18 years has adverse consequences for physical, mental and emotional well-being and constitutes a barrier for continued education. According to a national survey, about 50% of all women in Eastern Turkey were aged under 18 years at first marriage. This study explored women?s opinions and experiences of early marriage and culture-specific marriage customs in the province of Diyarbakir, a region of Turkey populated mostly by people of Kurdish ethnicity. A random sample of 966 women aged 15 years or older living in urban and rural areas of the province completed a questionnaire on age at marriage and social status. Qualitative data on women?s opinions and experiences were also collected through focus group interviews with 90 women. The frequency of early marriage ranged from 19% in the youngest age group to 63% in women aged 60 years or older. Analysis of focus group interviews through a qualitative modified content method showed that girls were considered marriageable some years after the menarche and considerations regarding the protection of family honour were key factors leading parents to arrange the early marriage of their daughters, sometimes without their consent. Some culture-specific marriage customs included cradle betrothal, cousin marriage and berdel (exchange of brides between two families). There is a need for public health and family planning workers to create greater awareness of the adverse consequences of early marriage through parental arrangements. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | FOCUS GROUPS | WOMEN | MARRIAGE AGE | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | ARRANGED MARRIAGE | CONSANGUINITY | CULTURE | ATTITUDES | Developing Countries | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Genetics | Biology | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327552 |
| 17. Title: CYP3A5 genotype has no impact on plasma trough concentrations of lopinavir and ritonavir in HIV-infected subjects. Author: Estrela RC; Santoro AB; Barroso PF; Tuyama M; Suarez-Kurtz G Source: Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2008 Aug;84(2):205-7. Abstract: CYP3A5 genotype has no impact on the trough plasma concentrations of lopinavir and ritonavir in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals on stable highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This is ascribed to a drug interaction, such that ritonavir by inhibiting CYP3A activity, may occlude the pharmacokinetic consequences of functional polymorphisms in the CYP3A5 gene. In the clinical setting, where lopinavir and ritonavir are always combined, CYP3A5 genotype is of no consequence on the trough plasma concentrations of these drugs. Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | INDIGENOUS POPULATION | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV | DRUG INTERACTIONS | DRUGS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | POPULATION GENETICS | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 328655 |
| 18. Title: Extensive microsatellite diversity in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium vivax. Author: Karunaweera ND; Ferreira MU; Munasinghe A; Barnwell JW; Collins WE Source: Gene. 2008 Feb 29;410(1):105-112. Abstract: The population structure of Plasmodium vivax remains elusive. The markers of choice for large-scale population genetic studies of eukaryotes, short tandem repeats known as microsatellites, have been recently reported to be less polymorphic in P. vivax. Here we investigate the microsatellite diversity and geographic structure in P. vivax, at both local and global levels, using 14 new markers consisting of tri- or tetranucleotide repeats. The local-level analysis, which involved 50 field isolates from Sri Lanka, revealed unexpectedly high diversity (average virtual heterozygosity [H/e], 0.807) and significant multilocus linkage disequilibrium in this region of low malaria endemicity. Multiple-clone infections occurred in 60% of isolates sampled in 2005. The global-level analysis of field isolates or monkey-adapted strains identified 150 unique haplotypes among 164 parasites from four continents. Individual P. vivax isolates could not be unambiguously assigned to geographic populations. For example, we found relatively low divergence among parasites from Central America, Africa, Southeast Asia and Oceania, but substantial differentiation between parasites from the same continent (South Asia and Southeast Asia) or even from the same country (Brazil). Parasite relapses, which may extend the duration of P. vivax carriage in humans, are suggested to facilitate the spread of strains across continents, breaking down any pre-existing geographic structure. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SRI LANKA | CENTRAL AMERICA | ASIA | AFRICA | BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | MALARIA | POPULATION GENETICS | PARASITES | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | Asia, Southern | Developing Countries | Latin America | Americas | South America, Eastern | South America | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 326244 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of consanguineous marriages in Turkey. Author: Koc I Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Jan;40(1):137-148. Abstract: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of consanguineous marriages in Turkey using data derived from the 2003 Turkey Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS-2003). Demographic surveys conducted in the last 40 years consistently show that Turkey is a country with a high level of consanguinity. In the latest demographic survey (TDHS-2003), a nationally representative sample of 8075 ever-married women, consanguineous marriages accounted for 22% of the total, which is equivalent to a mean coefficient of inbreeding (a) of 0.011. There are changing secular profiles in the rates of consanguinity in general and of the specific sub-types of cousin marriages in particular in Turkey. The prevalence of first cousin marriages among all consanguineous marriages presents a steady decline from one marriage cohort to the next. The changes observed over time may be attributable to several factors such as the increase in educational level of women, the nuclearization of thefamily system, the mobility from rural to urban settings, a better socioeconomic status of families, an increase in women's labour force participation in formal sectors, lower fertility rates resulting in a smaller number of cousins available for marriage, and an increased awareness of the effects of consanguineous unions on child health in cases where there is an inherited recessive disease in the family. Any attempts to discourage consanguinity at the population level appear to be inappropriate and undesirable, especially when the consanguineous union remains an integral part of the cultural and social life of Turkey. Nevertheless the WHO-recommended approach to minimizing the negative effects of consanguinity on child health should be followed, i.e. the identification of families with a high risk of a genetic disease and the provision of prospective genetic counselling. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | COUPLES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | PREVALENCE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | CULTURE | CHILD HEALTH | GENETIC COUNSELING | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Marriage | Nuptiality | Genetics | Biology | Measurement | Research Methodology | Economic Factors | Health | Counseling | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 322455 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: High prevalence of genetically similar HIV-1 recombinants among infected sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya. Author: Land AM; Luo M; Pilon R; Sandstrom P; Embree J; Wachihi C; Kimani J; Plummer FA; Ball TB Source: AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses. 2008 Nov;24(11):1455-60. Abstract: HIV-1, a highly diverse infectious agent, shows the greatest sequence diversity in highly exposed individuals, including greater levels of recombination. HIV-1 diversity in Nairobi, Kenya was examined in 240 individuals, including both those with high and low exposure to HIV. Sequence analysis of a 590 nucleotide proviral region encompassing vpu and part of env revealed that most viruses were clade A1 (70%), while both clade D (9%) and clade C (6%) virus were also observed, as was recombinant virus (15%). Participation in sex work was significantly associated with clade: these subjects had a lower likelihood of infection with clade C virus and a higher likelihood of infection with a recombinant isolate (p = 0.038). Interestingly, most of the recombinants formed distinct groups based on shared recombination breakpoints between common clades (n = 33/37). This study shows the value of continued HIV sequence analysis to examine and monitor viral genetic variability. Language: English Keywords: KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | SEX WORKERS | HIV | EXPOSURE | HIV INFECTIONS | POPULATION GENETICS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Risk Factors | Biology | Genetics | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 329721 |
| 21. Title: RDRio Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection is associated with a higher frequency of cavitary pulmonary disease. Author: Lazzarini LC; Spindola SM; Bang H; Gibson AL; Weisenberg S Source: Journal of Clinical Microbiology. 2008 Jul;46(7):2175-83. Abstract: Molecular genotyping has shown Mycobacterium tuberculosis lineages to be geographically restricted and associated with distinct ethnic populations. Whether tuberculosis (TB) caused by some M. tuberculosis lineages can present with a differential clinical spectrum is controversial because of very limited clinical data. We recently reported on the discovery of RD(Rio) M. tuberculosis, a Latin American-Mediterranean sublineage that is the predominant cause of TB in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. To investigate the clinical attributes of TB caused by RD(Rio) strains, we studied a cohort of TB cases from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, in which clinical information recorded on a standardized questionnaire was collected at the time of microbiological testing. These patients were referred for culture and drug susceptibility testing because of the clinical suspicion of "complicated" TB, as demonstrated by high rates of multidrug resistance (12%) and cavitary TB (80%). We performed spoligotyping and RD(Rio) genotyping on the M. tuberculosis strains and analyzed the clinical data from these patients. RD(Rio) M. tuberculosis accounted for 37% of the total TB burden. Multivariate analysis found a significant association between TB caused by RD(Rio) strains and pulmonary cavitation and residence in Belo Horizonte. Since cavitary TB is associated with higher sputum bacillary load, our findings support the hypothesis that RD(Rio) M. tuberculosis is associated with a more "severe" disease as a strategy to increase transmission. Future studies are needed to confirm these observations and to better define the contribution of RD(Rio) M. tuberculosis to the global TB epidemic. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | LATIN AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | QUESTIONNAIRES | RESPONDENTS | ETHNIC GROUPS | POPULATION GENETICS | TUBERCULOSIS | PULMONARY EFFECTS | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | South America | Americas | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Infections | Diseases | Physiology Document Number: 328465 |
| 22. Title: Genetic characterization and progression of B3 measles genotype in Ethiopia: a study of five measles outbreak cases. Author: Lemma E; Smit SB; Beyene B; Nigatu W; Babaniyi OA Source: Ethiopian Medical Journal. 2008 Jan;46(1):79-85. Abstract: BACKGROUND: One of the countries where measles remains endemic is Ethiopia. Previously, sequence data from Measles Viruses (MV) circulating in Ethiopia were obtained from clinical specimens. Now the Ethiopian Health and Nutrition Research Institute (ENHRI) has implemented cell culture techniques to isolate measles virus and molecular epidemiologic studies can be generated more easily. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the strains of Measles Virus circulating in Ethiopia during measles outbreaks in 2006 using viral isolates, and compare the results to previously identified Ethiopian strains. METHODS: A case study and convenience sampling method were conducted on five measles outbreak cases tb identify the circulating measles virus genotype in Addis Ababa and Amhara regions of Ethiopia in 2006. RESULTS: Three isolates were obtained from five specimens collected in two regions (1 from Amhara: Bahir Dar, and 2 from Addis Ababa: Addis Ketema and Kolefe Keranio subcities) in Ethiopia during 2006. The viral isolates were analyzed using standard genotyping protocols and were classified as genotype B3, identical to the strain circulating widely in West Africa and imported into Europe (Britain, Netherlands, Germany) and America (Mexico, USA, Canada). CONCLUSION: The conserved sequences among three isolates, covering a 3-month period, suggest that this B3 strain was circulating in Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar and possibly elsewhere in Ethiopia. To interrupt the transmission and circulation of MV, Ethiopia needs a strong national program of epidemiological surveillance, with characterization of circulating MV performed in a timely manner. Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | MEASLES | POPULATION GENETICS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | SCREENING | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Public Health | Health | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses Document Number: 328972 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Extremely high prevalence and genetic diversity of hepatitis C virus infection among HIV-infected injection drug users in Taiwan. Author: Liu JY; Lin HH; Liu YC; Lee SS; Chen YL Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2008;46:1761-1768. Abstract: An outbreak of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 infection among injection drug users (IDUs) occurred in Taiwan, and thereafter, injection drug use became the most frequent risk factor for HIV infection in Taiwan. We sought to study the prevalence of and genotypes causing hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among HIV-infected IDUs in Taiwan. A multicenter, longitudinal cohort study of 990 HIV-infected IDUs was conducted from 1993 through 2006. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of antibody to HCV and to determine the genotype of HCV. The overall prevalence of HCV infection among HIV-infected IDUs was 96.6%. The annual prevalence increased from 65.5% before 2002 to 98.6% in 2006. The main circulating HCV genotypes were 1a (accounting for 29.2% of samples), 6a (23.5%), and 3a (20.2%), whereas 1b, the most predominant genotype circulating in the general population in Taiwan, accounted for only 13.2% of samples. Genotypes 2b (accounting for 6.6% of samples), 6k (2.9%), 2a(1.6%), 6g (1.6%), and 3b (1.2%) were present in only a few IDUs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that duration of injection drug use and a travel history to China or Southeast Asia were significantly associated with infection due to HCV genotypes 1a, 3, and 6. Our study demonstrated a high prevalence of HCV infection among HIV-infected IDUs in Taiwan, with a predominance of infection due to genotypes 1a, 6a, and 3a, as a result of the impact of IDUs' behavior and their drug trafficking route. Our study revealed that HCV infection in IDUs originated from a geographically large transmission network that was mainly distinct from that associated with other HCV-infected individuals; this transmission network has also been documented in association with HIV infection in IDUs. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TAIWAN | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | IV DRUG USERS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HEPATITIS | POPULATION GENETICS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | TRANSMISSION | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Studies | Drug Use and Abuse | Behavior | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Infections Document Number: 326637 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Prevalence of HIV-1 drug resistance after failure of a first highly active antiretroviral therapy regimen in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Author: Marconi VC; Sunpath H; Lu Z; Gordon M; Koranteng-Apeagyei K Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2008;46:1589-1597. Abstract: Emergence of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) drug resistance may limit the benefits of antiretroviral therapy in resource-limited settings. The prevalence of resistance was assessed among patients from KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, following failure of their first highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimen. Genotypic resistance testing was performed on plasma virus samples from patients who experienced virologic failure of their first HAART regimen at 2 clinics in KwaZulu Natal. Clinical and demographic data were obtained from medical records. Regression analysis was performed to determine factors associated with greater than or equal to 1 significant drug resistance mutation. From January 2005 through August 2006, a total of 124 antiretroviral-treated adults who experienced virologic failure were enrolled. The predominant subtype was HIV-1C. Virus samples from 83.5% of participants carried greater than or equal to 1 significant drug resistance mutation. Dual-class drug-resistant virus was present in 64.3% of participants, and 2.6% had virus with triple-class drug resistance. The most common mutation was M184V/I (64.3% of patients); K103N was present in virus from 51.3%, and V106M was present in virus from 19.1%. Thymidine analog resistance mutations were found in virus from 32.2% of patients, and protease resistance mutations were found in virus from 4.4%. Antiretroviral drug-resistant virus was detected in 180% of South African patients who experienced failure of a first HAART regimen. Patterns of drug resistance reflected drugs used in first-line regimens and viral subtype. Continued surveillance of resistance patterns is warranted to guide selection of second-line regimens. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | DATA COLLECTION | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | DRUG RESISTANCE | RISK FACTORS | POPULATION GENETICS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | HIV | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Biology | Genetics | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses Document Number: 326170 |
| 25. Title: Genetic profiling of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Tunisia: predominance and evidence for the establishment of a few genotypes. Author: Namouchi A; Karboul A; Mhenni B; Khabouchi N; Haltiti R Source: Journal of Medical Microbiology. 2008 Jul;57(Pt 7):864-72. Abstract: Typing analyses of 378 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates collected between the years 2001 and 2005 from three northern representative regions of Tunisia revealed a highly homogeneous population. Indeed, 84.9 % of all tuberculosis (TB) cases were attributed to the Haarlem, LAM or T families. Strikingly, within each family, more than 60 % of TB cases were due to a single genotype. ST50 (Haarlem3) and ST42 (LAM9) genotypes were exceptionally predominant, representing 46.3 % of all typed isolates. ST50 showed an increased tendency for clustering and was more predominant in the extreme north of the country. By contrast, the more widespread ST42, which was apparently prevalent 17 years ago, displayed weak cluster individualization and a low transmission rate, consistent with its stable association with the Tunisian population. It is believed that both mass BCG vaccination, strictly applied for four decades, and the high endogamy rate that characterizes the Tunisian population could have profoundly shaped the population structure of M. tuberculosis by concurrently favouring the selection and accommodation of particular genotypes. Language: English Keywords: TUNISIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | DATA ANALYSIS | CLIENTS | TUBERCULOSIS | TESTING | TRANSMISSION | DRUG RESISTANCE | POPULATION GENETICS | DIRECTLY OBSERVED THERAPY SHORT-COURSE (DOTS) | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Infections | Diseases | Measurement | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 328343 |
| 26. Title: Hepatitis C and HIV coinfection in central region of Argentina: prevalence, genotype characterization and risk factors. Author: Re V; Gallego S; Farias A; Barbas G; Kremer L Source: Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiologia Clinica. 2008 Aug-Sep;26(7):423-5. Abstract: BACKGROUND: This is the first study reporting the epidemiological and molecular characterization of HCV/HIV coinfection in the central region of Argentina. METHOD: Cross-sectional, epidemiological study (2003-2004). Statistics: multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: The incidence of HCV/HIV coinfection was 12.3%. HCV genotype 1 was the most prevalent (73%). Intravenous drug use was the main independent risk factor for acquiring HCV infection. However, an alternative route (sexual) for viral transmission was suggested. CONCLUSIONS: These results underscore the potential public health impact of HCV/HIV coinfection in our region. Language: English Keywords: ARGENTINA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | EPIDEMIOLOGY | HIV INFECTIONS | HEPATITIS | RISK FACTORS | POPULATION GENETICS | South America, Southern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Public Health | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 329840 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Isolation and marriage patterns in four south Tyrolean villages (Italy) during the nineteenth century. Author: Riegler A; Marroni F; Pattaro C; Gueresi P; Pramstaller PP Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Sep;40(5):787-791. Abstract: No information is currently available on the marriage patterns of German-speaking communities of the South Tyrol area. The aim of this study is to investigate the reproductive isolation of four South Tyrolean mountain villages during the 19th century. Data about 3953 marriages were drawn from existing pedigrees and completed with data from the parish registers of the studied villages to calculate the following indicators: age at marriage, endogamy, inbreeding from dispensations and from isonymy and repeated pairs of surnames among couples. The results show high levels of endogamy (78-87%) and an elevated age at marriage in all the studied villages. The percentages of consanguineous marriages (10-33%) vary considerably but result overall in relatively low inbreeding values (alpha 0.0015-0.0036; Ft 0.0098-0.0138). Levels of endogamy are consistent with the geographic characteristics of the area, while inbreeding values are lower than those observed in previous studies on Alpine communities. This is due to a low frequency of marriages between close relatives, probably related to the peculiar demographic and cultural characteristics of the studied populations that differentiate them from neighbouring Italian-speaking villages. Language: English Keywords: ITALY | RESEARCH REPORT | PARISH REGISTERS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | MARRIAGE AGE | Developed Countries | Europe, Southern | Europe | Population Statistics | Research Methodology | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology Document Number: 308368 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Is consanguineous marriage historically encouraged? Author: Saadat M Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Jan;40(1):153-154. Abstract: I read with great interest Akrami and Osati's article entitled 'Is consanguineous marriage religiously encouraged?' Islamic and Iranian considerations' published in the March 2007 issue of the Journal of Biosocial Science. The authors showed that in many Islamic sources, there is no sign that could be described as encouraging cousin marriages. I would like to make a few comments about it. It is well established that consanguinity is associated with loss of biological fitness for both communities and individuals. For countries such as Iran, where consanguineous marriages are common, the reasons behind consanguinity are highly important for public health programmes. Very recently, I reported on consanguineous marriages in Iranian folktales. Also, I reported that there was a very strong correlation between the mean inbreeding coefficients (a) estimated for the eleven different Iranian (ethical and/or geographical) populations based on records of folktales and a estimation of the populations at the present time. Surprisingly, a estimation using data derived from folktales can explain more than 56% (r/2=0.5625) of the differences between populations for consanguineous marriages at present. Because folktales represent the historical basis of knowledge, attitude and practice about consanguinity, consanguinity has been a long-standing social habit among Iranian populations. Considering that Akrami and Osati reported that there was no encouragement of consanguineous marriages in the Islamic context, it might be suggested that the historical background is very important in the attitudes and practice about marriages between relatives. Finally, Imam Ali and Fatima were first cousins once removed. (full text) Language: English Keywords: IRAN | HISTORICAL REVIEW | COUPLES | ISLAM | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | CONSANGUINITY | CULTURE | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | FOLK MEDIA | Developing Countries | Middle East | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Religion | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetics | Biology | Mass Media | Communication Document Number: 322457 |
| 29. Title: Temporal and spatial dynamics of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 circulating recombinant forms 08_BC and 07_BC in Asia. Author: Tee KK; Pybus OG; Li XJ; Han X; Shang H Source: Journal of Virology. 2008 Sep;82(18):9206-9215. Abstract: Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) CRF08_BC and CRF07_BC are two major recombinants descended from subtypes B' and C. Despite their massive epidemic impact in China, their migration patterns and divergence times remain unknown. Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses were performed on 228 HIV-1 sequences representing CRF08_BC, CRF07_BC, and subtype C strains from different locations across China, India, and Myanmar. Genome-specific rates of evolution and divergence times were estimated using a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo framework under various evolutionary models. CRF08_BC originated in 1990.3 (95% credible region [CR], 1988.6 to 1991.9) in Yunnan province before spreading to Guangxi (south) and Liaoning (northeast) around 1995. Inside Guangxi region, the eastward expansion of CRF08_BC continued from Baise city (west) to Binyang (central) between 1997 and 1998 and later spread into Pingxiang around 1999 in the south, mainly through injecting drug users. Additionally, CRF07_BCdiverged from its common ancestor in 1993.3 (95% CR, 1991.2 to 1995.2) before crossing the border into southern Taiwan in late 1990s. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that both CRF08_BC and CRF07_BC can trace their origins to Yunnan. The parental Indian subtype C lineage likely entered China around 1981.2 (95% CR, 1976.7 to 1985.9). Using a multiple unlinked locus model, we also showed that the dates of divergence calculated in this study may not be significantly affected by intrasubtype recombination among different lineages. This is the first phylodynamic study depicting the spatiotemporal dynamics of HIV/AIDS in East Asia. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | INDIA | MYANMAR | RESEARCH REPORT | HIV INFECTIONS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | POPULATION GENETICS | SEX BEHAVIOR | IV DRUG USERS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia, Southeastern | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Public Health | Health | Genetics | Biology | Behavior | Drug Use and Abuse Document Number: 328323 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: Short communication: SDF1-3'A gene mutation is correlated with increased susceptibility to HIV type 1 infection by sexual transmission in Han Chinese. Author: Wang Y; Wang X; Peng J; Chen L; Cheng J; Nie S; Feng T; Zhao G; Zhao J; Shi X Source: AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses. 2008 Nov;24(11):1341-5. Abstract: Limited information is available on host genetic polymorphisms that confer resistance to HIV-1 infection in Han Chinese who persistently remain seronegative (HEPS) despite high exposure to HIV-1 through unprotected sexual activity with known HIV-1-seropositive spouses or long-term sexual partners. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of CCR5-Delta32, CCR2b-64I, and SDF1-3'A polymorphisms with susceptibility to HIV-1 infection through sexual transmission in Han Chinese. A cross-sectional study was used to analyze the differences in allelic frequencies of CCR5-Delta32, CCR2b-64I, and SDF1-3'A among HEPS, healthy HIV-unexposed individuals, and HIV-1-seropositive individuals. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis was used for genotype determination. The CCR5-Delta32 mutation was not detected in the three groups (n = 260). The allelic frequencies of CCR2b-64I were 21.57%, 21.63%, and 22.12% in the three groups, respectively. There was no significant difference among the three groups in CCR2b-64I distribution. The allelic frequencies of SDF1-3'A were 20.19%, 28.37%, and 29.33% in the three groups, respectively. There was a significant difference in the allelic distribution of SDF1-3'A between HEPS and healthy HIV-unexposed individuals (p = 0.023), as well as between HEPS and HIV-1-seropositive individuals (p = 0.049). Statistical analysis showed that the allelic distributions on CCR2b-64I and SDF1-3'A were in equilibrium according to the Hardy-Weinberg equation. The mutant genotypes of CCR5-Delta32 and CCR2b-64I were not correlated with HIV-1 infection through sexual transmission in Han Chinese. SDF1- 3'A was associated with a high risk of HIV-1 infection through sexual transmission in Han Chinese. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | SEXUAL PARTNERS | POPULATION GENETICS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | HIV | HIV INFECTIONS | EXPOSURE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Genetics | Biology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Risk Factors Document Number: 329711 |
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