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Luong HA, Rohlfs AM, Facey JA, Colville A, Mitrovic SM. Long-term study of phytoplankton dynamics in a supply reservoir reveals signs of trophic state shift linked to changes in hydrodynamics associated with flow management and extreme events. Water Res 2024; 256:121547. [PMID: 38583334 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
This study analyses over a decade (2009-2022) of monitoring data to understand the impact of hydrological characteristics on water quality and phytoplankton dynamics in Prospect Reservoir, a critical water supply for Greater Sydney, Australia, known for its excellent water quality. Water quality and phytoplankton dynamics were related to hydrodynamics, linked to flow management and the water quality of inflows. Phytoplankton biovolume increased after a prolonged drawdown and subsequent refill event, mainly driven by dinoflagellates, and corresponded to increases in total phosphorus and water temperature. The hydrological period following the 2019/2020 summer bushfires (post-bushfire) that impacted connected reservoirs, was marked by increased flow activity and nutrient loading, leading to significant shifts in the phytoplankton community. Functional group classification and ordination analysis indicated a transition from taxa typically dominant in oligotrophic conditions to meso‑eutrophic. This transition correlated with elevated nutrient levels and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), and reduced Secchi depth and dissolved oxygen, providing evidence of eutrophication. Q index indicated good water quality post-bushfire, contrasting with a eutrophic status assessment using Chl-a. Our findings highlight the importance of analysing long-term datasets encompassing varied hydroclimatological conditions for a deeper understanding of reservoir behaviour. A comprehensive approach to water quality assessment is recommended, combining functional group classification, Q index and Chl-a measurements for effective reservoir health assessment. This research provides novel insights into the effects of disturbances such as bushfires, on water quality and phytoplankton dynamics in an underrepresented geographic region, offering valuable knowledge for managing water resources amidst growing climate variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy A Luong
- Freshwater and Estuarine Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | | | - Jordan A Facey
- Freshwater and Estuarine Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Anne Colville
- Freshwater and Estuarine Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- Freshwater and Estuarine Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
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2
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Samardzic K, Steele JR, Violi JP, Colville A, Mitrovic SM, Rodgers KJ. Toxicity and bioaccumulation of two non-protein amino acids synthesised by cyanobacteria, β-N-Methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB), on a crop plant. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021; 208:111515. [PMID: 33099142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In order to study the toxicity of the cyanobacterial non-protein amino acids (NPAAs) L-β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its structural isomer L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DAB) in the forage crop plant alfalfa (Medicago sativa), seedlings were exposed to NPAA-containing media for four days. Root growth was significantly inhibited by both treatments. The content of derivatised free and protein-bound BMAA and DAB in seedlings was then analysed by LC-MS/MS. Both NPAAs were detected in free and protein-bound fractions with higher levels detected in free fractions. Compared to shoots, there was approximately tenfold more BMAA and DAB in alfalfa roots. These results suggest that NPAAs might be taken up into crop plants from contaminated irrigation water and enter the food chain. This may present an exposure pathway for NPAAs in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Samardzic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia.
| | - Joel R Steele
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Jake P Violi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
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3
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Gaw S, Harford A, Pettigrove V, Sevicke‐Jones G, Manning T, Ataria J, Cresswell T, Dafforn KA, Leusch FDL, Moggridge B, Cameron M, Chapman J, Coates G, Colville A, Death C, Hageman K, Hassell K, Hoak M, Gadd J, Jolley DF, Karami A, Kotzakoulakis K, Lim R, McRae N, Metzeling L, Mooney T, Myers J, Pearson A, Saaristo M, Sharley D, Stuthe J, Sutherland O, Thomas O, Tremblay L, Wood W, Boxall ABA, Rudd MA, Brooks BW. Towards Sustainable Environmental Quality: Priority Research Questions for the Australasian Region of Oceania. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2019; 15:917-935. [PMID: 31273905 PMCID: PMC6899907 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Environmental challenges persist across the world, including the Australasian region of Oceania, where biodiversity hotspots and unique ecosystems such as the Great Barrier Reef are common. These systems are routinely affected by multiple stressors from anthropogenic activities, and increasingly influenced by global megatrends (e.g., the food-energy-water nexus, demographic transitions to cities) and climate change. Here we report priority research questions from the Global Horizon Scanning Project, which aimed to identify, prioritize, and advance environmental quality research needs from an Australasian perspective, within a global context. We employed a transparent and inclusive process of soliciting key questions from Australasian members of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. Following submission of 78 questions, 20 priority research questions were identified during an expert workshop in Nelson, New Zealand. These research questions covered a range of issues of global relevance, including research needed to more closely integrate ecotoxicology and ecology for the protection of ecosystems, increase flexibility for prioritizing chemical substances currently in commerce, understand the impacts of complex mixtures and multiple stressors, and define environmental quality and ecosystem integrity of temporary waters. Some questions have specific relevance to Australasia, particularly the uncertainties associated with using toxicity data from exotic species to protect unique indigenous species. Several related priority questions deal with the theme of how widely international ecotoxicological data and databases can be applied to regional ecosystems. Other timely questions, which focus on improving predictive chemistry and toxicology tools and techniques, will be important to answer several of the priority questions identified here. Another important question raised was how to protect local cultural and social values and maintain indigenous engagement during problem formulation and identification of ecosystem protection goals. Addressing these questions will be challenging, but doing so promises to advance environmental sustainability in Oceania and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally Gaw
- School of Physical and Chemical SciencesUniversity of CanterburyChristchurchNew Zealand
| | - Andrew Harford
- Department of the Environment and EnergyAustralian Government, DarwinAustralia
| | - Vincent Pettigrove
- Aquatic Environmental Stress Research CentreRMIT University, BundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | | | | | | | - Tom Cresswell
- Australia's Nuclear Science and Technology OrganisationLucas HeightsAustralia
| | | | - Frederic DL Leusch
- Australian Rivers Institute and School of Environment and ScienceGriffith UniversityBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Bradley Moggridge
- Institute for Applied EcologyUniversity of CanberraCanberraAustralia
| | | | - John Chapman
- Office of Environment and HeritageNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Gary Coates
- Te Rūnanga o Ngāi TahuChristchurchNew Zealand
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life SciencesUniversity of Technology SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Claire Death
- Faculty of Veterinary ScienceUniversity of MelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Kimberly Hageman
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryUtah State University, LoganUtahUSA
| | - Kathryn Hassell
- Aquatic Environmental Stress Research CentreRMIT University, BundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | - Molly Hoak
- School of BiosciencesThe University of Melbourne, ParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Jennifer Gadd
- National Institute of Atmospheric and Water ResearchAucklandNew Zealand
| | - Dianne F Jolley
- Faculty of Science, University of Technology SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Ali Karami
- Environmental Futures Research InstituteGriffith UniversityBrisbaneAustralia
| | | | - Richard Lim
- Faculty of Science, University of Technology SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Nicole McRae
- School of Physical and Chemical SciencesUniversity of CanterburyChristchurchNew Zealand
| | | | - Thomas Mooney
- Department of the Environment and EnergyAustralian Government, DarwinAustralia
| | - Jackie Myers
- Aquatic Environmental Stress Research CentreRMIT University, BundooraVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Minna Saaristo
- School of Biological SciencesMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Dave Sharley
- Bio2Lab, Melbourne Innovation CentreGreensboroughAustralia
| | | | | | - Oliver Thomas
- School of Applied Chemistry and Environmental ScienceRMIT University, MelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Louis Tremblay
- Cawthron InstituteNelsonNew Zealand
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of AucklandAucklandNew Zealand
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4
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Violi JP, Mitrovic SM, Colville A, Main BJ, Rodgers KJ. Prevalence of β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and its isomers in freshwater cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australia. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2019; 172:72-81. [PMID: 30682636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to the amino acid β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) was linked to the high incidence of neurodegenerative disease first reported on the island of Guam in the 1940s and has more recently been implicated in an increased incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in parts of the USA. BMAA has been shown to be produced by a range of cyanobacteria and some marine diatoms and dinoflagellates in different parts of the world. BMAA is commonly found with two of its constitutional isomers: 2,4- diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) and N-(2-aminoethyl) glycine (AEG). These isomers are thought to be co-produced by the same organisms that produce BMAA and MS/MS analysis following LC separation can add an additional level of specificity over LC-FL. Although the presence of BMAA and 2,4-DAB in surface scum samples from several sites in Australia has been reported, which Australian cyanobacterial species are capable of BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG production remains unknown. The aims of the present studies were to identify some of the cyanobacterial genera or species that can produce BMAA, 2,4-DAB and AEG in freshwater cyanobacteria blooms in eastern Australia. Eleven freshwater sites were sampled and from these, 19 single-species cyanobacterial cultures were established. Amino acids were extracted from cyanobacterial cultures and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. BMAA was detected in 17 of the 19 isolates, 2,4-DAB was detected in all isolates, and AEG was detected in 18 of the 19 isolates, showing the prevalence of these amino acids in Australian freshwater cyanobacteria. Concentrations of all three isomers in Australian cyanobacteria were generally higher than the concentrations reported elsewhere. This study confirmed the presence of BMAA and its isomers in cyanobacteria isolated from eastern Australian freshwater systems, and determined which Australian cyanobacterial genera or species were capable of producing them when cultured under laboratory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake P Violi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Simon M Mitrovic
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Brendan J Main
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Kenneth J Rodgers
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- M B Schultz
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | | | | | - J Li
- Harvard Medical School, United States
| | | | | | - A Gomes
- Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - D Sinclair
- Paul F. Glenn Labs for the Biology of Aging, Harvard Medical School, United States
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Bradley CR, Hoffman PN, Egan K, Jacobson SK, Colville A, Spencer W, Larkin S, Jenks PJ. Guidance for the decontamination of intracavity medical devices: the report of a working group of the Healthcare Infection Society. J Hosp Infect 2018; 101:1-10. [PMID: 30092292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2018.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracavity medical devices (ICMDs) are used in a wide variety of healthcare settings. The approach to their decontamination and the resources available also differ widely. Their potential for infection transmission is considerable. AIM To produce a comprehensive risk assessment-based approach to the decontamination of ICMDs, accompanied by an adaptable audit tool. KEY RECOMMENDATIONS
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Bradley
- Hospital Infection Research Laboratory, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - K Egan
- Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Crewe, UK
| | - S K Jacobson
- Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - A Colville
- Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | | | - S Larkin
- Aintree University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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7
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Scott PD, Coleman HM, Colville A, Lim R, Matthews B, McDonald JA, Miranda A, Neale PA, Nugegoda D, Tremblay LA, Leusch FDL. Assessing the potential for trace organic contaminants commonly found in Australian rivers to induce vitellogenin in the native rainbowfish (Melanotaenia fluviatilis) and the introduced mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki). Aquat Toxicol 2017; 185:105-120. [PMID: 28208107 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In Australia, trace organic contaminants (TrOCs) and endocrine active compounds (EACs) have been detected in rivers impacted by sewage effluent, urban stormwater, agricultural and industrial inputs. It is unclear whether these chemicals are at concentrations that can elicit endocrine disruption in Australian fish species. In this study, native rainbowfish (Melanotaenia fluviatilis) and introduced invasive (but prevalent) mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki) were exposed to the individual compounds atrazine, estrone, bisphenol A, propylparaben and pyrimethanil, and mixtures of compounds including hormones and personal care products, industrial compounds, and pesticides at environmentally relevant concentrations. Vitellogenin (Vtg) protein and liver Vtg mRNA induction were used to assess the estrogenic potential of these compounds. Vtg expression was significantly affected in both species exposed to estrone at concentrations that leave little margin for safety (p<0.001). Propylparaben caused a small but statistically significant 3× increase in Vtg protein levels (p=0.035) in rainbowfish but at a concentration 40× higher than that measured in the environment, therefore propylparaben poses a low risk of inducing endocrine disruption in fish. Mixtures of pesticides and a mixture of hormones, pharmaceuticals, industrial compounds and pesticides induced a small but statistically significant increase in plasma Vtg in rainbowfish, but did not affect mosquitofish Vtg protein or mRNA expression. These results suggest that estrogenic activity represents a low risk to fish in most Australian rivers monitored to-date except for some species of fish at the most polluted sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip D Scott
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, 4222, Australia
| | - Heather M Coleman
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Ulster University, Coleraine, BT52 1SA, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Colville
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, New South Wales, 2007, Australia
| | - Richard Lim
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, New South Wales, 2007, Australia
| | - Benjamin Matthews
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, 4222, Australia
| | - James A McDonald
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Ana Miranda
- School of Applied Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, PO Box 71, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Peta A Neale
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, 4222, Australia
| | - Dayanthi Nugegoda
- School of Applied Sciences, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, PO Box 71, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Louis A Tremblay
- Cawthron Institute, 98 Halifax St. East, Nelson 7042, New Zealand; School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, PO Box 92019, Auckland, 1142, New Zealand
| | - Frederic D L Leusch
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, 4222, Australia.
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8
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Quraishi M, Segal J, Mullish B, McCune V, Hawkey P, Colville A, Williams H, Hart A, Iqbal T. National survey of practice of faecal microbiota transplantation for Clostridium difficile infection in the UK. J Hosp Infect 2017; 95:444-445. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2016.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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9
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Abdul JM, Colville A, Lim R, Vigneswaran S, Kandasamy J. Use of duckweed (Lemna disperma) to assess the phytotoxicity of the products of Fenton oxidation of metsulfuron methyl. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2012; 83:89-95. [PMID: 22776711 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2012.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Revised: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/15/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Because of pressure on water supplies world-wide, there is increasing interest in methods of remediating contaminated ground waters. However, with some remediation processes, the breakdown products are more toxic than the original contaminant. Organic matter and salinity may also influence degradation efficiency. This study tested the efficiency of Fenton oxidation in degrading the sulfonylurea herbicide metsulfuron methyl (MeS), and tested the reaction products for phytotoxicity with the Lemna (duckweed) bioassay. The efficiency of degradation by Fenton's reagent (Fe(2+)=0.09 mM; H(2)O(2)=1.76 mM, 4h) decreased with increasing initial MeS concentration, from 98% with 5 mg/L MeS, to 63% with 70 mg/L MeS. Addition of NaCl (10mM) and organic matter (humic acid at 0.2 and 2.0mg C/L as Total Organic Carbon) reduced the efficiency of degradation at low initial MeS concentrations (5 and 10 mg/L), but had no effect at high concentrations. The residual Fenton's reagent after Fenton's oxidation was toxic to Lemna. After removal of residual iron and H(2)O(2), the measured toxicity to Lemna in the treated samples could be explained by the concentrations of MeS as measured by HPLC/UV detection, so there was no evidence of additional toxicity or amelioration due to the by-products or formulation materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javeed M Abdul
- Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology, Sydney, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia
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Vonberg RP, Kuijper EJ, Wilcox MH, Barbut F, Tüll P, Gastmeier P, van den Broek PJ, Colville A, Coignard B, Daha T, Debast S, Duerden BI, van den Hof S, van der Kooi T, Maarleveld HJH, Nagy E, Notermans DW, O'Driscoll J, Patel B, Stone S, Wiuff C. Infection control measures to limit the spread of Clostridium difficile. Clin Microbiol Infect 2008; 14 Suppl 5:2-20. [PMID: 18412710 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2008.01992.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhoea (CDAD) presents mainly as a nosocomial infection, usually after antimicrobial therapy. Many outbreaks have been attributed to C. difficile, some due to a new hyper-virulent strain that may cause more severe disease and a worse patient outcome. As a result of CDAD, large numbers of C. difficile spores may be excreted by affected patients. Spores then survive for months in the environment; they cannot be destroyed by standard alcohol-based hand disinfection, and persist despite usual environmental cleaning agents. All these factors increase the risk of C. difficile transmission. Once CDAD is diagnosed in a patient, immediate implementation of appropriate infection control measures is mandatory in order to prevent further spread within the hospital. The quality and quantity of antibiotic prescribing should be reviewed to minimise the selective pressure for CDAD. This article provides a review of the literature that can be used for evidence-based guidelines to limit the spread of C. difficile. These include early diagnosis of CDAD, surveillance of CDAD cases, education of staff, appropriate use of isolation precautions, hand hygiene, protective clothing, environmental cleaning and cleaning of medical equipment, good antibiotic stewardship, and specific measures during outbreaks. Existing local protocols and practices for the control of C. difficile should be carefully reviewed and modified if necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- R-P Vonberg
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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11
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Colville A, Jones P, Pablo F, Krassoi F, Hose G, Lim R. Effects of chlorpyrifos on macroinvertebrate communities in coastal stream mesocosms. Ecotoxicology 2008; 17:173-180. [PMID: 18060579 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-007-0181-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2007] [Accepted: 11/12/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
This study measured the effects of a single pulse of chlorpyrifos at nominal concentrations of 1 and 10 microg/l on the macroinvertebrate community structure of a coastal stream mesocosm system. Analysis of data using Principal Response Curves (PRC) and Monte Carlo tests showed significant changes in the treated stream mesocosms relative to that of the controls. These changes in the macroinvertebrate assemblages occurred within 6 h, and persisted for at least 124 days after dosing. Significant community-level effects were detected at the lowest concentration on days 2 and 16 post-dosing, giving a no-observed effect concentration (NOEC(community)) of 1.2 microg/l (measured). The mayflies Atalophlebia sp. and Koorrnonga sp., Chironomidae and Acarina were all sensitive to chlorpyrifos and decreased in abundance in treated mesocosms after dosing. The fauna of these coastal stream mesocosms showed similar sensitivity to chlorpyrifos with that of other reported studies, but there was no evidence of recovery after 124 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Colville
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Institute for Water and Environmental Resource Management, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), P.O. Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
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12
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Gaber KA, Shenton L, Oades P, Colville A, Sheldon CD. Fungal septicaemia in patients with cystic fibrosis associated with totally implantable venous access device system. J Cyst Fibros 2007; 6:317-9. [PMID: 17293171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2006.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2006] [Accepted: 10/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Fungal septicaemia is a serious and potentially fatal condition. We report 4 cases in patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) associated with totally implantable venous access device system (TIVADS).
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Gaber
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK.
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14
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Evans AJ, Crisp AJ, Hubbard RB, Colville A, Evans SA, Johnston ID. Pulmonary Mycobacterium kansasii infection: comparison of radiological appearances with pulmonary tuberculosis. Thorax 1996; 51:1243-7. [PMID: 8994523 PMCID: PMC472771 DOI: 10.1136/thx.51.12.1243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A study was undertaken to determine if there are differences in the radiological appearances at presentation between pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium kansasii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Correct recognition of the organism has important implications with regard to initial therapy and contact tracing. METHODS The initial chest radiographs of 28 patients with pulmonary M kansasii infection were compared with those of 56 age, sex, and race matched patients with M tuberculosis infection. All patients in both groups were culture positive and none was known to be HIV positive. The radiographs were analysed independently by two radiologists who were unaware of the causative organism. RESULTS Radiographic abnormalities in patients with M kansasii infection were more frequently unilateral and right side predominant, while those with tuberculosis more frequently involved a lower lobe. Air space shadowing involving more than one bronchopulmonary segment and pleural effusions were seen less frequently in M kansasii infection (four of 28 (14%) versus 30 of 56 (54%) and none of 28 versus 15 of 56 (27%)). Cavitation (21 of 28 (75%) versus 34 of 56 (61%) was seen to a similar extent in patients with M kansasii infection and in those with tuberculosis. Cavities tended to be smaller in patients with M kansasii infection (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Differences are seen in the radiographic appearances of pulmonary infection caused by M kansasii and M tuberculosis. These differences are not sufficient to allow a positive diagnosis on the basis of radiographic findings alone, but the presence of a pleural effusion or lower lobe involvement makes M kansasii infection very unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Evans
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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Evans SA, Colville A, Evans AJ, Crisp AJ, Johnston ID. Pulmonary Mycobacterium kansasii infection: comparison of the clinical features, treatment and outcome with pulmonary tuberculosis. Thorax 1996; 51:1248-52. [PMID: 8994524 PMCID: PMC472772 DOI: 10.1136/thx.51.12.1248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United Kingdom Mycobacterium kansasii is the most common pulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacteria to cause disease in the non-HIV positive population. METHODS The clinical features, treatment, and outcome of 47 patients (13 women) of mean (SD) age 58 (17) years with culture positive pulmonary M kansasii infection were compared with those of 87 patients (23 women) of mean (SD) age 57 (16) years with culture positive pulmonary M tuberculosis infection by review of their clinical and laboratory records. Each patient with M kansasii infection was matched for age, sex, race and, where possible, year of diagnosis with two patients with M tuberculosis infection. RESULTS All those with M kansasii infection were of white race. Haemoptysis was more common in patients infected with M kansasii but they were less likely to present as a result of an incidental chest radiograph or symptoms other than those due to mycobacterial infection. Patients with M kansasii were also less likely to have a history of diabetes, but the frequency of previous chest disease and tuberculosis was similar. An alcohol intake of > 14 units/week was less frequent in those with M kansasii, but there were no significant differences in drug history, past and present smoking habit, occupational exposures, social class, or marital status. Patients with M kansasii received a longer total course of antimycobacterial therapy and, in particular, extended treatment with ethambutol and rifampicin was given. There was no significant difference in outcome between pulmonary M kansasii or M tuberculosis infection. CONCLUSIONS There are group differences between the clinical features of the two infections but, with the possible exception of diabetes and alcohol intake, these features are unlikely to be diagnostically helpful. Treatment of M kansasii infection with ethambutol, isoniazid, and rifampicin in these patients was as effective as standard regimens given to patients infected with M tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Evans
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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Farrington P, Pugh S, Colville A, Flower A, Nash J, Morgan-Capner P, Rush M, Miller E. A new method for active surveillance of adverse events from diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis and measles/mumps/rubella vaccines. Lancet 1995; 345:567-9. [PMID: 7619183 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(95)90471-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
We describe a new method for active post-marketing surveillance of vaccine safety based on patient records. We studied the association between diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (DTP) vaccination and febrile convulsion, and between measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccination and febrile convulsion and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in five district health authorities in England by linking vaccination records with computerised hospital admission records. We found an increased relative incidence for convulsions 0-3 days after DTP vaccination. The effect was limited to the third dose of vaccine for which the attributable risk (all ages) was 1 in 12,500 doses. Completion of vaccination by 4 months instead of 10 months after the change in the UK to an accelerated immunisation schedule may have resulted in a 4-fold decrease in febrile convulsions attributable to DTP vaccine. 67% of admissions for a convulsion 6-11 days after MMR vaccination were attributable to the measles component of the vaccine (risk 1 in 3000 doses). An excess of admissions for a convulsion 15-35 days after MMR vaccination was found only for vaccines containing the Urabe mumps strain (1 in 2600 Urabe doses). There was a causal association between MMR vaccination and ITP resulting in admission 15-35 days subsequently; there was no evidence of a mumps strain-specific effect. The estimated absolute risk of 1 in 24,000 doses was 5 times that calculated from cases passively reported by clinicians. This finding emphasises the need for active surveillance of adverse events. The record linkage method that we used is an effective way to identify vaccine-attributable adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Farrington
- Public Health Laboratory Service Statistics Unit, Communicable Disease Surveillance Center, London, UK
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Evans AJ, Crisp AJ, Colville A, Evans SA, Johnston ID. Pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium malmoense and Mycobacterium tuberculosis: comparison of radiographic features. AJR Am J Roentgenol 1993; 161:733-7. [PMID: 8372747 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.161.4.8372747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare the radiographic features seen at presentation of pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium malmoense and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The correct differential diagnosis has important therapeutic implications. MATERIALS AND METHODS The initial radiographs of 16 patients who had proved pulmonary M. malmoense infection were compared with those of 32 age-, sex-, and race-matched patients who had M. tuberculosis infection. The radiographs were analyzed by two radiologists who had no knowledge of the infecting organism. For statistical comparisons, chi 2 and Fisher's exact tests were used. RESULTS Radiographic findings seen more often in patients who had M. malmoense infection than in those who had tuberculosis were as follows: cavities larger than 6 cm in diameter were found in six (37%) of 16 vs two (6%) of 32 (p < .01); air-fluid levels within cavities were seen in four (25%) of 16 vs one (3%) of 32 (p < .05); loss of lung volume was observed in 12 (75%) of 16 vs 11 (34%) of 32 (p < .01); and coexistent pneumoconiosis was present in four (25%) of 16 vs none of 32 (p < .01). Air-space shadowing involving more than one bronchopulmonary segment was less common in the M. malmoense group, seen in three (19%) of 16 patients, than in the M. tuberculosis group, seen in 16 (50%) of 32 patients (p < .05). CONCLUSION The radiographic appearances of pulmonary infection caused by M. malmoense differ from those of pulmonary tuberculosis. These differences do not appear to be sufficient to allow a specific diagnosis on the basis of radiographic findings alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Evans
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Abstract
A case of Streptococcus oralis meningitis is reported. This followed extraction of a normal tooth during routine orthodontic treatment. No focus of infection could be demonstrated, either local to or distant from the extraction site. Full recovery followed hospital admission and intravenous benzyl penicillin.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Colville
- Public Health Laboratory, Queens Medical Centre, University Hospital, Nottingham
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Miller E, Goldacre M, Pugh S, Colville A, Farrington P, Flower A, Nash J, MacFarlane L, Tettmar R. Risk of aseptic meningitis after measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine in UK children. Lancet 1993; 341:979-82. [PMID: 8096942 DOI: 10.1016/0140-6736(93)91069-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cases of aseptic meningitis associated with measles/mumps/rubella vaccine were sought in thirteen UK health districts following a reported cluster in Nottingham which suggested a risk of 1 in 4000 doses, substantially higher than previous estimates based on cases reported by paediatricians (4 per million). Cases were ascertained by obtaining vaccination records of children with aseptic meningitis diagnosed from cerebrospinal fluid samples submitted to Public Health Laboratories or discharged from hospital with a diagnosis of viral meningitis. Both methods identified vaccination 15-35 days before onset as a significant risk factor and therefore indicative of a causal association. With both, half the aseptic meningitis cases identified in children aged 12-24 months were vaccine-associated with onset 15-35 days after vaccine. The study confirmed that the true risk was substantially higher than suggested by case reports from paediatricians, probably about 1 in 11,000 doses. However, the possibility that the aseptic meningitis induced by vaccination was largely asymptomatic and a chance laboratory finding in children investigated for other clinical conditions, particularly febrile convulsions, could not be excluded. Comparison of national reports of virus-positive mumps meningitis cases before and after the introduction of this vaccine indicated that the risk from wild mumps was about 4-fold higher than from vaccine. Altogether, 28 vaccine-associated cases were identified, all in recipients of vaccines containing the Urabe mumps strain. The absence of cases in recipients of vaccine containing the Jeryl Lynn strain, despite its 14% market share, suggested a higher risk from Urabe vaccine. A prospective adverse event surveillance system using the study methods is currently being established to assess the risk, if any, from the Jeryl Lynn strain which is now the only mumps vaccine used in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Miller
- Immunisation Division, PHLS Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, London
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Colville A. Retrospective review of culture-positive mycobacterial lymphadenitis cases in children in Nottingham, 1979-1990. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 1993; 12:192-5. [PMID: 8508817 DOI: 10.1007/bf01967110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Laboratory records were reviewed retrospectively for culture-positive cases of mycobacterial lymphadenitis in children less than 15 years old. There were six cases of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, and 15 cases of infection with other mycobacteria. There were no clinical features to distinguish tuberculous from non-tuberculous cases. All cases managed by chest physicians were initially treated as tuberculosis, whereas paediatric specialists were likely to use initial management appropriate to the infecting organism. Methods of improving the initial management of non-tuberculous infections are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Colville
- Public Health Laboratory, University Hospital, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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Abstract
Community-acquired adult lower-respiratory-tract infections (LRTI) are generally thought to be caused by atypical and viral infections. We have studied 480 adults presenting to a single general practice with community-acquired LRTI between November, 1990, and December, 1991. The overall incidence was 44 cases per 1000 population per year; the incidence was 2-4 times higher in people aged 60 and over than in those aged less than 50. 206 patients were studied in detail; among this group 91 (44%) had 113 pathogens identified. There were 92 bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae in 62 and Haemophilus influenzae in 16), 19 viruses (influenza virus in 12), and only 2 atypical pathogens (Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Coxiella burnetii). Pneumococcal infection was common in people who were 60 or older, those who had underlying chronic disease, or people with both features. There was moderate morbidity in terms of time in bed, time to return to normal activities, and days off work. 25% of patients returned for a second consultation with the general practitioner, in most because of unsatisfactory clinical progress. Community-acquired LRTI are very common, and the range of causative pathogens is similar to that for community-acquired pneumonia. Existing management strategies seem inadequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- J T Macfarlane
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital, Nottingham, UK
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Colville A, Crowley J, Dearden D, Slack RC, Lee JV. Outbreak of Legionnaires' disease at University Hospital, Nottingham. Epidemiology, microbiology and control. Epidemiol Infect 1993; 110:105-16. [PMID: 8432314 PMCID: PMC2271972 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268800050731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Twelve patients in a large teaching hospital contracted Legionnaires' disease over a period of 11 months. The source was a domestic hot water system in one of the hospital blocks, which was run at a temperature of 43 degrees C. Five different subtypes of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 have been isolated from water in different parts of the hospital, over a period of time. Only one subtype, Benidorm RFLP 14, was implicated in disease. Circumstantial evidence suggested that the outbreak may have been due to recent colonization of the hot water system with a virulent strain of Legionella pneumophila. The outbreak was controlled by raising the hot water temperature to 60 degrees C, but careful surveillance uncovered two further cases in the following 30 months. Persistent low numbers of Legionella pneumophila were isolated from the domestic hot water of wards where Legionnaires' disease had been contracted, until an electrolytic unit was installed releasing silver and copper ions into this supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Colville
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham
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Pinder SE, Colville A. Mycobacterial cervical lymphadenitis in children: can histological assessment help differentiate infections caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria from Mycobacterium tuberculosis? Histopathology 1993; 22:59-64. [PMID: 8436342 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2559.1993.tb00070.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Most mycobacterial lymphadenitis in children in developed countries is caused by non-tuberculous (the so-called 'atypical') mycobacteria. In view of the widely different treatment regimes and the requirement for contact tracing in Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections but not in non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections, it is very important to attempt to define histologically which is the aetiological agent. We have reviewed the histological appearances of mycobacterial cervical lymphadenitis in children and have found that, if any one of several 'atypical' features were seen, the appearances were much more likely to be due to a non-tuberculous mycobacterium. These features include ill-defined (non-palisading) granulomas, irregular or serpiginous granulomas, a predominantly non-specific granulomatous response, predominantly sarcoid-like granulomas or lack of significant caseation. In addition, the non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections showed a different distribution of neutrophil polymorphs, which tended to be seen in the centre of areas of necrosis rather than in Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections where a polymorph infiltrate, if present, was more diffusely scattered. Although no one definitive feature is diagnostic of non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection, some features are helpful in differentiating the two groups of organisms histologically.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Pinder
- Department of Histopathology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
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