51
|
Sandström A, Balgobin N, Nyilas A, Remaud G, Vial JM, Zhou XX, Chattopadhyaya J. Conformation of Lariat Structures Formed in the Splicing of Pre-mRNA by NMR Spectroscopy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1080/07328318808056338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
52
|
Paul M, Sandström A, Paul J. Prospects for cleaning ash in the acidic effluent from bioleaching of sulfidic concentrates. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2004; 106:25-35. [PMID: 14693436 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2003.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Leaching of ashes in sulfuric acid (pH 1.0, liquid-to-solid (L/S) ratio 10:1, 25 degrees C) has been characterized with respect to the neutralizing capacity and the dissolution of dominant ions and trace elements. The conditions mimic the oxidation stage of a biohydrometallurgical process for base metal production from sulfidic mineral concentrates. Direct acid leaching of ash, integrated with this metallurgical process, offers a feasible route to the sustainable handling of metal-rich ashes. The treated ash will be deposited together with the inert mineral residue. Cd, Co, Cu, Ni and Zn are effectively leached and can be recovered utilizing existing hydrometallurgical technology, but the recovery of other readily dissolved metals, notably Mn, U and V, requires that additional steps are implemented. We make two recommendations for industrial processes. The first is to replace limestone with ash from biofuels, except peat, for pH control in biohydrometallurgical processing. This requires a modest increase of fresh alkali compared with limestone. The second is to implement sulfuric acid leaching of fly ash from the combustion of solid waste and other metal-rich fuels (used wood, tires), thereby avoiding costly ash-deposits. There is a significant economic incentive for these changes, since no costly ash-deposits and less limestone will be needed.
Collapse
|
53
|
Masmas TN, Jensen H, da Silva D, Høj L, Sandström A, Aaby P. Survival among motherless children in rural and urban areas in Guinea-Bissau. Acta Paediatr 2004; 93:99-105. [PMID: 14989448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM With the increasing incidence of HIV and TB, motherless children are becoming a rapidly growing problem in Africa. However, few studies describe the survival patterns of these children. The aim of this study was to investigate the mortality of motherless children in urban and rural areas of Guinea-Bissau. METHODS A historical cohort study was set up in urban and rural areas in Guinea-Bissau. Motherless children were selected from two study cohorts under demographic surveillance since 1990. The relatives of 128 motherless children from the rural cohort and 192 from the urban area, as well as a total of 807 controls, were examined and interviewed. RESULTS Controlling for significant background factors revealed that motherless children had a markedly higher mortality than that of controls in both urban (mortality rate ratio (MR) 2.32 (95% confidence interval 1.11-4.84)) and rural areas (MR = 4.16 (2.79-6.22)). Virtually all the excess mortality occurred among children under 2 y of age when their mother died. Few motherless children had been provided with surrogate breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS Since nearly all children in Guinea are breastfed until 2 y of age, premature weaning may be one of the major causes of the higher mortality rates observed among motherless children.
Collapse
|
54
|
Høj L, da Silva D, Hedegaard K, Sandström A, Aaby P. Factors associated with maternal mortality in rural Guinea-Bissau. A longitudinal population-based study. BJOG 2002; 109:792-9. [PMID: 12135216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess demographic and obstetric risk factors for pregnancy-related death in a multiethnic rural population in a developing country. DESIGN A prospective survey of women in the fertile age-range. SETTING Rural Guinea-Bissau. POPULATION More than 15,000 women living in 100 clusters were visited at six-monthly intervals over a period of more than six years. A total of 10,931 pregnancies were registered prospectively; 85 of these pregnancies resulted in maternal or late maternal death. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Maternal mortality ratio. METHOD In the rural areas of Guinea-Bissau, we conducted a prospective survey of women in the fertile age range. More than 15,000 women living in 100 clusters were visited at 6-monthly intervals over a period of more than six years. An analysis of demographic, environmental and obstetric risk factors for maternal death was performed based on 10,931 prospectively registered pregnancies; 85 of these pregnancies resulted in maternal or late maternal death. RESULTS In the adjusted model maternal mortality ratio increased with increasing distance from the regional hospital (OR>25 km = 7.4 [95% CI: 1.6-132]). Multiple pregnancy was found to increase the risk of maternal death (OR = 3.4 [95% CI: 1.3-7.5]). The risk of subsequent maternal death was increased if the fetus was stillborn (OR = 5.3 [95% CI: 2.8-9.4]). Women living in the region of Gabu had higher mortality than those living in Biombo (OR = 2.5 [95% CI: 1.3-5.1]). No category of age or parity were associated with an increased risk of maternal mortality. Predictive values did not exceed 3% for any of the significant risk factors. CONCLUSIONS For the purpose of reducing maternal mortality, the screening approach of antenatal care is of limited value. Age and parity should not be used routinely as selection criteria for transfer of otherwise healthy pregnant women to higher-level health institutions. Twin pregnancy seems to be the only operational risk factor identified in this study. Stillbirth is associated with an increased risk of maternal death. Regional differences must be studied further. The distance to emergency obstetric care (EOC) may determine the outcome of a complicated delivery.
Collapse
|
55
|
Sjögren M, Hesse C, Basun H, Köl G, Thostrup H, Kilander L, Marcusson J, Edman A, Wallin A, Karlsson I, Troell M, Wachtmaister G, Ekdahl A, Olofsson H, Sandström A, Andreasen N, Minthon L, Blennow K. Tacrine and rate of progression in Alzheimer's disease--relation to ApoE allele genotype. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2002; 108:451-8. [PMID: 11475012 DOI: 10.1007/s007020170066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Today, cognitive impairment can be successfully treated with acetylcholine esterase inhibitors (AChE-I) in many, but not all, patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). To investigate the relation between tacrine treatment, inheritance of ApoE epsilon4 alleles, and rate of progression, the differences in MMSE and CIBIC scores (efficacy parameters) after 6 and 12 months of tacrine (an AChE-I) treatment were investigated in 145 AD patients. Of these, 84 were ApoE epsilon4-positive (ApoE4) and 61 were ApoE epsilon4-negative (ApoE2-3). No differences were found after 6 months of treatment, but after 12 months the CIBIC scores revealed that the ApoE4 patients had declined more than the ApoE2-3 patients (p < 0.05). No differences were found for the last 6 months of treatment. The results primarily suggest a faster rate of decline in the ApoE4 AD compared to the ApoE2-3, but may also reflect that ApoE epsilon4 genotype inheritance is a negative predictor of treatment effect of tacrine in AD patients.
Collapse
|
56
|
Sandström A. [Ventriloquist's spouse]. LAKARTIDNINGEN 2001; 98:4237. [PMID: 11680167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
|
57
|
Nordstrand K, Sandström A, Aslund F, Holmgren A, Otting G, Berndt KD. NMR structure of oxidized glutaredoxin 3 from Escherichia coli. J Mol Biol 2000; 303:423-32. [PMID: 11031118 DOI: 10.1006/jmbi.2000.4145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A high precision NMR structure of oxidized glutaredoxin 3 [C65Y] from Escherichia coli has been determined. The conformation of the active site including the disulphide bridge is highly similar to those in glutaredoxins from pig liver and T4 phage. A comparison with the previously determined structure of glutaredoxin 3 [C14S, C65Y] in a complex with glutathione reveals conformational changes between the free and substrate-bound form which includes the sidechain of the conserved, active site tyrosine residue. In the oxidized form this tyrosine is solvent exposed, while it adopts a less exposed conformation, stabilized by hydrogen bonds, in the mixed disulfide with glutathione. The structures further suggest that the formation of a covalent linkage between glutathione and glutaredoxin 3 is necessary in order to induce these structural changes upon binding of the glutathione peptide. This could explain the observed low affinity of glutaredoxins for S-blocked glutathione analogues, in spite of the fact that glutaredoxins are highly specific reductants of glutathione mixed disulfides.
Collapse
|
58
|
Larsen O, Andersson S, da Silva Z, Hedegaard K, Sandström A, Nauclér A, Dias F, Melbye M, Aaby P. Prevalences of HTLV-1 infection and associated risk determinants in an urban population in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2000; 25:157-63. [PMID: 11103046 DOI: 10.1097/00042560-200010010-00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence and modes of transmission of HTLV-1 infection in an adult population in Bissau, and to evaluate possible interactions between the pattern of spread of HTLV-1 and HIV-1/HIV-2. DESIGN AND METHODS Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate gender-and age-specific HTLV-1 prevalences as well as associated risk determinants in an adult population based on a serosurvey comprising 2127 individuals from 304 randomly selected houses in Bissau. RESULTS Using stringent Western blot criteria, the overall seroprevalence of HTLV-1 was 3.6%, 2.2% among men and 4.7% among women, respectively. One individual was seropositive to HTLV-2. The prevalence of HTLV-1, which increased with age in both genders, however more markedly among women, was >4 times higher (9.4%) among older individuals (>44 years of age) than among younger individuals (2.4%). Blood transfusion and HIV-2 seropositivity were independently associated with HTLV-1 seropositivity in men. Among women, both HIV-2 seropositivity and HIV-1 seropositivity were significant risk determinants. Having had sexual partners was associated with a fivefold increased risk among women but did not reach significance. CONCLUSION The adult population of Guinea-Bissau has a higher prevalence of HTLV-1 than reported from most other countries in West Africa. The gender-and age-specific pattern of spread of HTLV-1 closely resembles that observed for HIV-2, another retrovirus prevalent to the region. The close correlation between HTLV-1 and HIV-2 most likely reflects the shared risk factors related to sexual behavior. The implication of the high percentage of double infections in this population needs to be determined.
Collapse
|
59
|
Dalsgaard A, Forslund A, Petersen A, Brown DJ, Dias F, Monteiro S, Molbak K, Aaby P, Rodrigues A, Sandström A. Class 1 integron-borne, multiple-antibiotic resistance encoded by a 150-kilobase conjugative plasmid in epidemic vibrio cholerae O1 strains isolated in Guinea-Bissau. J Clin Microbiol 2000; 38:3774-9. [PMID: 11015401 PMCID: PMC87474 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.38.10.3774-3779.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the 1996-1997 cholera epidemic in Guinea-Bissau, surveillance for antimicrobial resistance showed the emergence of a multidrug-resistant strain of Vibrio cholerae O1 during the course of the epidemic. The strain was resistant to ampicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, furazolidone, aminoglycosides, trimethoprim, and sulfamethoxazole. Concomitant with the emergence of this strain, we observed a resurgence in the number of registered cholera cases as well as an increase in the case fatality rate from 1.0% before the emergence of the multiple-drug-resistant strain to 5.3% after the emergence of the strain. Our study shows that the strain contained a 150-kb conjugative multiple-antibiotic resistance plasmid with class 1 integron-borne gene cassettes encoding resistance to trimethoprim (dhfrXII) and aminoglycosides [ant(3")-1a]). The finding of transferable resistance to almost all of the antibiotics commonly used to treat cholera is of great public health concern. Studies should be carried out to determine to what extent the strain or its resistance genes have been spread to other areas where cholera is endemic.
Collapse
|
60
|
Rodrigues A, Sandström A, Cá T, Steinsland H, Jensen H, Aaby P. Protection from cholera by adding lime juice to food - results from community and laboratory studies in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. Trop Med Int Health 2000; 5:418-22. [PMID: 10929141 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3156.2000.00575.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have shown that food plays an important role in the transmission of Vibrio cholerae, and different foods have been incriminated in many epidemic outbreaks of cholera. Storing contaminated meals at ambient temperatures allows growth of V. cholerae. Some ingredients such as lime juice may inhibit the survival of V. cholerae in foods. During an epidemic caused by V. cholerae O1 in Guinea-Bissau in 1996, a case control study was conducted in the capital Bissau, the main affected region with an attack rate of 7.4%. Cases were hospitalized patients and controls were matched for area, gender and age. Lime juice in the sauce eaten with rice gave a strong protective effect (odds ratio [OR] = 0.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.17-0.56), and tomato sauce was also protective (OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.24-0.54). On the other hand, use of a bucket for storage of water in the house was associated with increased risk (OR = 4.4, CI = 2.21-8.74). Laboratory experiments to elucidate the inhibitory effect of different concentrations of lime juice on survival of V. cholerae in meals showed that V. cholerae thrives in rice with peanut sauce, but lime juice inhibited its growth. Since lime juice is a common ingredient of sauces, its use should be further encouraged to prevent foodborne transmission in the household during cholera outbreaks.
Collapse
|
61
|
Sjögren G, Hedlund SO, Jonsson C, Sandström A. A 3-year follow-up study of preformed beta-quartz glass-ceramic insert restorations. QUINTESSENCE INTERNATIONAL (BERLIN, GERMANY : 1985) 2000; 31:25-31. [PMID: 11203902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of preformed beta-quartz glass-ceramic insert restorations. METHODS AND MATERIALS Nine Class I and 30 Class II beta-quartz glass-ceramic insert restorations were placed in 16 patients who were seen regularly by personnel at Umeå University Dental School. The California Dental Association criteria were used to evaluate the restorations at baseline, 6 months, and 1, 2, and 3 years after luting. The occurrence of postoperative sensitivity, the time taken to manufacture each restoration, and certain periodontal conditions were also evaluated. RESULTS Sixty-nine percent of the restorations were rated satisfactory at the 3-year examination. During the follow-up period, 4 became loose and 7 were fractured or had flaking surfaces. Caries was registered in connection with 1 restoration. Excellent ratings were obtained for marginal integrity, anatomic form, surface, and color in 62%, 84%, 32%, and 44% of the restorations, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the occurrence of plaque and bleeding on probing in comparison with the controls. The mean overall time for placement was 38 minutes. The estimated survival rate (Kaplan-Meier) was 59% after 3.5 years. CONCLUSION The quality of the beta-quartz glass-ceramic restorations in the present study was inferior to that presented in most earlier studies of ceramic or resin composite posterior restorations placed in patients treated at university clinics. Both the technique and the beta-quartz glass-ceramic inserts have to be evaluated in more long-term studies to assess the possibility of their serving as an alternative restorative technique.
Collapse
|
62
|
Kofoed PE, Lopes F, Johansson P, Dias F, Sandström A, Aaby P, Rombo L. Low-dose quinine for treatment of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Guinea-Bissau. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 1999; 93:547-9. [PMID: 10696419 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-9203(99)90377-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The recommended dose of 10 mg quinine/kg bodyweight 3 times a day for 7 days for treatment of malaria is so high that many patients experience cinchonism. We have earlier obtained good results with 7 days' treatment with 20 mg Quinimax/kg bodyweight divided into 2 daily doses. In order to identify the lowest effective dose, children with symptomatic malaria were treated with quinine twice a day for 7 days. They were assigned to 1 of 3 groups treated daily with 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, or 20 mg/kg bodyweight, respectively; 42, 46, and 34 children, respectively, received treatment and completed 5 weeks of follow-up. The cumulative percentages of all children with parasitaemia during follow-up on day 28 or before were 33%, 13% and 12%, respectively. Treatment with 10 mg quinine salt/kg daily for 7 days gave a significantly higher rate of recrudescence than did treatment with 15 or 20 mg/kg daily. Thus at least 15 mg of quinine salt/kg bodyweight daily should be recommended for treatment of symptomatic Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Guinea-Bissau.
Collapse
|
63
|
Kwesigabo G, Killewo JZ, Sandström A, Winani S, Mhalu FS, Biberfeld G, Wall S. Prevalence of HIV infection among hospital patients in north west Tanzania. AIDS Care 1999; 11:87-93. [PMID: 10434985 DOI: 10.1080/09540129948225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
In order to estimate hospital HIV prevalence, the economic impact of AIDS on health care and to assess the implications of HIV testing on clinical suspicion of AIDS this hospital based study was done at the government regional hospital of Kagera, Tanzania. Consecutive admissions were recruited into the study, and those consenting had a blood specimen taken, one portion of which was used to aid clinical diagnosis, while the other was tested anonymously for HIV antibodies using two ELISA systems. A short questionnaire was used to specify demographic characteristics, hospital ward of admission and diagnosis of each study subject. The overall age adjusted HIV-1 prevalence was 32.8% (N = 1422) and there was no significant difference in the age adjusted sex specific prevalence. The highest prevalence (53.3%) was found in the 25-34 years age group as well as in the gynaecological and medical wards (41.2% and 40.4%, respectively). The diagnostic category of clinical AIDS had a sensitivity of 11.3% and a specificity of 99.3%, indicating that only 11.3% of the HIV seropositives would have been HIV tested on clinical suspicion of AIDS. Similarly, the HIV-1 antibody sensitivity and specificity for tuberculosis were 5.9% and 97.9%, respectively. Patients who were HIV-1 infected were more likely to have a history of previous hospital admissions, RR = 1.34 (95% CI = 1.16-1.56), and were at an increased risk of developing tuberculosis, RR = 2.02 (95% CI = 1.50-2.70). The diagnostic categories with the highest HIV-1 infection prevalence were clinical AIDS (88.5%), herpes zoster and other HIV-1 skin manifestations combined (85.7%) and pulmonary tuberculosis (58.3%). In conclusion, the prevalence of HIV-1 infection was high among hospitalized patients in Bukoba hospital indicating that the major cause of illness leading to admission to the hospital may have been underlying HIV-1 infection. The findings also indicate that in a high HIV-1 prevalence area, testing for HIV infection on the basis of clinical suspicion of AIDS alone is not sufficient to provide rational care to the majority of HIV infected patients.
Collapse
|
64
|
Denisov AY, Zamaratski EV, Maltseva TV, Sandström A, Bekiroglu S, Altmann KH, Egli M, Chattopadhyaya J. The solution conformation of a carbocyclic analog of the Dickerson-Drew dodecamer: comparison with its own X-ray structure and that of the NMR structure of the native counterpart. J Biomol Struct Dyn 1998; 16:547-68. [PMID: 10052613 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.1998.10508269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The NMR conformation of a carbocyclic analog of the Dickerson-Drew dodecamer [d(CGC-GAAT*T*CGCG)]2 containing 6'-alpha-Me carbocyclic thymidines (T*) has been determined and compared with that of its X-ray structure. The solution structure of the 6'-alpha-Me carbocyclic thymidine modified duplex has also been compared with the solution structure of the corresponding unmodified Dickerson-Drew duplex solved by us under the same experimental conditions. The NMR structures have been based on 24 experimental distance and torsion constraints per residue for [d(CGCGAAT*T*CGCG)]2 (1) and on 21 constraints per residue for the natural counterpart. In general, both final NMR structures are more close to the B-type DNA. The cyclopentane moieties of the carbocyclic thymidine residues adopt C1'-exo B-DNA type puckers (the phase angles P = 136-139 degrees and the puckering amplitudes psi = 36-37 degrees) that are close to their previously published crystal C1'-exo or C2'-endo puckers. The main differences between the two NMR structures are for beta(T*8) and epsilon, xi(T*7) backbone torsions (27-50 degrees ), for basepair twist for the 7-8 and 8-9 basepair steps (5-6 degrees), tilt for the 8-9 step (7 degrees), roll for the 7-8 step (7 degrees), shift for the 7-8 step (0.9A) and slide for the 9-10 step (0.6A). The relatively small deviations of helical structure parameters lead to structural isomorphism of these duplexes in aqueous solutions (atomic RMSD = 1.0A). The difference of the minor groove widths (less than 0.7A) in the core part of the modified duplex in comparison with the native one is much smaller than the difference between the X-ray structures of these duplexes. A detailed comparison of NMR and X-ray structure parameters showed significant monotonic differences (0.9-2.5A) for all basepair slides in both duplexes. Deviations between NMR and X-ray structure parameters for the modified duplex were also found for basepair tilt of the 4-5 step (13 degrees), rolls for the 8-9 and 10-11 steps (16 and 19 degrees), twist of the 3-4 step (8 degrees) and shift of the 9-10 step (0.9A).
Collapse
|
65
|
Larsen O, da Silva Z, Sandström A, Andersen PK, Andersson S, Poulsen AG, Melbye M, Dias F, Nauclér A, Aaby P. Declining HIV-2 prevalence and incidence among men in a community study from Guinea-Bissau. AIDS 1998; 12:1707-14. [PMID: 9764792 DOI: 10.1097/00002030-199813000-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the present level of HIV-2 infection in an adult population in Bissau and to evaluate sex and age-specific changes in HIV-2 prevalence and incidence between 1987 and 1996. DESIGN AND METHODS Sex and age-specific changes in HIV-2 prevalence were evaluated comparing a survey from 1987 in a sample of 100 houses with a survey performed in 1996 in an independent sample of 212 houses from the same study area. HIV-2 incidence rates were examined in an adult population (age > or = 15 years) from 100 randomly selected houses followed with four consecutive HIV serosurveys from 1987 to 1996. RESULTS The HIV-2 prevalence in 1996 was 6.8% (men, 4.7%; women, 8.4%). Compared with the 1987 survey there was a significant decrease in prevalence among men [age-adjusted relative risk (RR), 0.50; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.31-0.83], whereas it remained unchanged in women (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.67-1.48). The male-to-female RR decreased from 0.99 (95% CI, 0.61-1.61) in 1987 to 0.51 (95% CI, 0.34-0.76) in 1996. The overall annual incidence rate was 0.54 per 100 person-years of observation (PYO), being higher in women (0.72 per 100 PYO) than in men (0.31 per 100 PYO). With the observation time divided into an early and a late period, there was a decrease in incidence with time among men (0.66 to 0.00 per 100 PYO), but no major change among women (0.59 to 0.85 per 100 PYO). The two trends differed significantly (P = 0.03). We observed a higher annual incidence rate amongst older women aged > 44 years (1.77 per 100 PYO) than among younger women (0.55 per 100 PYO; P = 0.05). CONCLUSION There are no signs of an epidemic spread of HIV-2 in Bissau even though the HIV-1 prevalence is increasing rapidly. A significant reduction in the male HIV-2 prevalence and incidence rates has resulted in a major shift in the pattern of spread of HIV-2, from being equally distributed to being predominantly a female infection. Currently, older women in particular seem to have a high risk of getting infected.
Collapse
|
66
|
Killewo JZ, Kwesigabo G, Comoro C, Lugalla J, Mhalu FS, Biberfeld G, Wall S, Sandström A. Acceptability of voluntary HIV testing with counselling in a rural village in Kagera, Tanzania. AIDS Care 1998; 10:431-9. [PMID: 9828963 DOI: 10.1080/09540129850123966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A pilot study on acceptability of voluntary HIV testing with counselling was performed in a rural village in Kagera, Tanzania as a potential intervention against HIV transmission. Village residents were prepared by their leaders and subsequently invited to health education group meetings to volunteer for the test. Consenting individuals were interviewed to determine awareness and acceptance of the offer followed by pre-test counselling and taking of a blood sample for subsequent HIV testing. Two months later, the results of the test were returned with post-test counselling coupled with a short interview of a random sample of adults in the village. Of the 245 adults responding to the call, 137 (55.9%) subsequently volunteered. The main reason for volunteering was to know the HIV status (96%). Among those who were aware of the offer, the main reason for not volunteering was that they felt unlikely to catch AIDS, implying that they had a false perception of being at low risk. In this study a significant proportion were willing to volunteer for the HIV test and to receive the results, indicating a moderate level of acceptability. The results also indicate the need for developing innovative ways of enhancing acceptability of voluntary HIV testing with counselling. However, the relationship between knowledge of HIV status and behavioural change is complex and therefore several potential mechanisms may exist by which HIV testing in combination with counselling can influence behaviour. For this reason, people should be given the choice of knowing their HIV status since it may constitute a potential mechanism for influencing behaviour towards reduction of HIV transmission.
Collapse
|
67
|
Sandström A, Sandström E, Nylén IL, Fröroth L. [More than one--inspiring British twin clinics]. JORDEMODERN 1998; 111:7-10. [PMID: 9505619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
68
|
Denisov AY, Sandström A, Maltseva TV, Pyshnyi DV, Ivanova EM, Zarytova VF, Chattopadhyaya J. The NMR structure of estrone (Es)-tethered tandem DNA duplex: [d(5'pCAGCp3')-Es] + [Es-d(5'pTCCA3')]: d(5'pTGGAGCTG3'). J Biomol Struct Dyn 1997; 15:499-516. [PMID: 9439997 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.1997.10508961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The solution structure of an estrone (Es)-tethered tandem DNA duplex consisting of two Es-tethered tetranucleotides and a target octameric DNA sequence is reported. The structure of this Es-tethered tandem duplex has been compared with a corresponding natural tandem duplex without estrones. The Tm of the 3'-Es-tethered tetranucleotide part of the tandem duplex increases by 5 degrees C, whereas the Tm of the 5'-Es-tethered tetranucleotide part increases by 7 degrees C, compared with the corresponding natural counterpart. The NMR structures of both the Es-tethered tandem duplex and the natural counterpart have been based on 24 experimental NMR constraints per residue. Despite the fact that there is considerable distortion at the junction of two Es-tethered tetranucleotides in the major groove of the Es-tethered DNA duplex compared to the natural counterpart, both duplexes do take up B-type DNA structures. It is likely that the spatial proximity of two Es residues, and the resulting hydrophobic interaction between them might be responsible for the increase of the thermal stability of the Es-tethered tandem duplex in comparison with the natural counterpart.
Collapse
|
69
|
Killewo J, Sandström A, Dahlgren L, Wall S. Communicating with the people about HIV infection risk as a basis for planning interventions: lessons from the Kagera Region of Tanzania. Soc Sci Med 1997; 45:319-29. [PMID: 9225418 DOI: 10.1016/s0277-9536(96)00347-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In order to deepen the understanding of risk factors associated with HIV infection in the Kagera region of Tanzania and to investigate the potentials of communicating with the people in planning for interventions, two studies were performed in the districts of Bukoba Urban, Bukoba Rural and Muleba in 1989. The HIV prevalence of these areas ranged between 4.5% and 24.2% according to the prevalence study performed earlier in 1987. The studies involved the community in ward meetings on the one hand, and previously studied individuals on the other hand. The studies aimed both at conveying to the people the results of a previously performed study and at collecting new data using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods in order to better understand the associated risk factors, perceived or real, and what suggestions the community could offer for reducing HIV transmission in the region. From the initial study, awareness about AIDS was found to be universal. Change of sexual partners and infection with syphilis were found to be the major risk factors for HIV-I infection. From the ward meetings people suggested a variety of solutions for interventions which we have categorized as either "hard" or "soft". The "hard" solutions involved suggestions such as isolation, imprisonment, castration and killing of AIDS victims, while the "soft" solutions involved sympathetic handling of the sick and educating the people about the modes of transmission and how best to prevent infection. There was a greater tendency for the low HIV prevalence rural communities to suggest the "hard" solutions than the high HIV prevalence urban ones which tended to suggest the "soft" solutions. However, with the changing dynamics of HIV infection in the region towards higher HIV prevalence in rural areas, it is likely that the "soft" solutions will gain acceptance and become adopted for interventions throughout the region. The information obtained from these studies has provided lessons that can be used for rational counselling as well as for guiding the implementation of IEC activities geared at interventions. It is also suggested that there should be further research into new strategies or their combinations which could be crucial in prevention such as those of community participation, empowerment of women and solidarity in AIDS intervention work.
Collapse
|
70
|
Muhe L, Byass P, Freij L, Sandström A, Wall S. A one-year community study of under-fives in rural Ethiopia: health and behavioural determinants of morbidity. Public Health 1996; 110:215-9. [PMID: 8757702 DOI: 10.1016/s0033-3506(96)80106-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Based on a one-year weekly home surveillance study, morbidity patterns of 1,304 children under five years of age in a rural Ethiopian community were measured, together with nutritional and health behavioural determinants. Using Poisson regression models, the study showed that nutritional and health care factors make a significant impact on under-five morbidity. Gastroenteritis was particularly associated with child care factors, while acute respiratory infections were particularly associated with nutritional factors. Lack of immunization, low birthweight and pre-term delivery (more than one month early) were not found to have any independent effect on morbidity. Breast feeding was universal, but the introduction of supplementary foods was found to protect from excess morbidity. The study concludes by discussing possible applications of the results in intervention programmes.
Collapse
|
71
|
Glemarec C, Kufel J, Földesi A, Maltseva T, Sandström A, Kirsebom LA, Chattopadhyaya J. The NMR structure of 31mer RNA domain of Escherichia coli RNase P RNA using its non-uniformly deuterium labelled counterpart [the 'NMR-window' concept]. Nucleic Acids Res 1996; 24:2022-35. [PMID: 8668532 PMCID: PMC145904 DOI: 10.1093/nar/24.11.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The NMR structure of a 31mer RNA constituting a functionally important domain of the catalytic RNase P RNA from Escherichia coli is reported. Severe spectral overlaps of the proton resonances in the natural 31mer RNA (1) were successfully tackled by unique spectral simplifications found in the partially-deuterated 31 mer RNA analogue (2) incorporating deuterated cytidines [C5 (>95 atom % 2H), C2' (>97 atom % 2H), C3' (>97 atom % 2H), C4' (>65 atom % 2H) and C5' (>97 atom % 2H)] [for the 'NMR-window' concept see: Földesi,A. et al. (1992) Tetrahedron, 48, 9033; Foldesi,A. et al. (1993) J. Biochem. Biophys. Methods, 26, 1; Yamakage,S.-I. et al. (1993) Nucleic Acids Res., 21, 5005; Agback,P. et al. (1994) Nucleic Acids Res., 22, 1404; Földesi,A. et al. (1995) Tetrahedron, 51, 10065; Földesi,A. et al. (1996) Nucleic Acids Res., 24, 1187-1194]. 175 resonances have been assigned out of total of 235 non-exchangeable proton resonances in (1) in an unprecedented manner in the absence of 13C and 15N labelling. 41 out of 175 assigned resonances could be accomplished with the help of the deuterated analogue (2). The two stems in 31mer RNA adopt an A-type RNA conformation and the base-stacking continues from stem I into the beginning of the loop I. Long distance cross-strand NOEs showed a structured conformation at the junction between stem I and loop I. The loop I-stem II junction is less ordered and shows structural perturbation at and around the G11 -C22 base pair.
Collapse
|
72
|
Abstract
The Rönnskär smelter in Skellefteå, Sweden, produces significant environmental pollutants, such as lead, arsenic, copper, cadmium and sulphur dioxide. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether children born to women living near the smelter during pregnancy had an increased risk of childhood cancer. The study group consisted of children born between 1961 and 1990 in the municipality of Skellefteå and parish of Holmsund. Through linkage to the Swedish Cancer Registry cancer diagnoses in the study group were obtained and compared with the expected ones based on the national incidence rates. Thirteen cases of childhood cancer were identified among children born in the vicinity of the smelter against 6.7 expected (SIR 195, 95%CI 88-300). Among distant born the observed number of cases (n = 42) was similar to that expected (n = 41.8).
Collapse
|
73
|
Sandström A, Wall S. Lung cancer, smoking and smelter work in a occupational cohort. Int J Epidemiol 1995; 24:1071-7. [PMID: 8824846 DOI: 10.1093/ije/24.6.1071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A cohort of employees at a smelter in Northern Sweden has been updated with the addition of information regarding smoking habits to evaluate the role of smoking in the occurrence of lung cancer in various job categories and employment cohorts. An updated analysis of earlier studies of the interaction between roaster work and smoking is also reported. The cohort members first employed during the period 1928-1979 have been followed up to 1 January 1988. Information regarding smoking habits for 69% of the cohort was gathered in a questionnaire study. RESULTS The prevalence of daily smoking decreased during the study period and was lower for salaried employees. The figures were, however, comparable with national figures for similar social and occupational strata. Adjustment for smoking did not alter the lung cancer gradient between employment cohorts or between job categories. CONCLUSIONS The interaction between smoking and roaster work was confirmed and the benefits from ceasing to smoke shown to be greater among the roaster workers.
Collapse
|
74
|
Plavec J, Thibaudeau C, Viswanadham G, Sund C, Sandström A, Chattopadhyaya J. The interaction of the 2′-OH group with the vicinal phosphate in ribonucleoside 3′-ethylphosphate drives the sugar-phosphate backbone into unique (S,ω−) conformational state. Tetrahedron 1995. [DOI: 10.1016/0040-4020(95)00714-j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
75
|
Muhe L, Byass P, Freij L, Sandström A, Wall S. A one-year community study of under-fives in rural Ethiopia: patterns of morbidity and public health risk factors. Public Health 1995; 109:99-109. [PMID: 7716257 DOI: 10.1016/s0033-3506(05)80003-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A prospective weekly home surveillance study was undertaken to determine morbidity patterns within the Butajira Rural Health project in central Ethiopia. Overall prevalence of illness was 5.8% in 1216 person-years observed among rural Ethiopian children aged under 5 years. Acute respiratory infections (ARI) (prevalence 2.8%) and acute diarrhoea (2.4%) were the commonest conditions. Episodes of illness were distributed unequally among children, with a mean of 2.34 episodes per child. These included an average of 1.13 episodes of ARI (of which 0.16 had lower respiratory symptoms [ALRI]) and 1.17 episodes of acute diarrhoea. Sanitation factors were the principal risks for gastroenteritis, while living in rural areas predisposed children to ARI. Parental factors such as illiteracy were also linked to morbidity.
Collapse
|