MedWorm: Hepatitis Vaccine

Immunogenicity and Tolerability of Recombinant Serogroup B Meningococcal Vaccine Administered With or Without Routine Infant Vaccinations According to Different Immunization Schedules: A Randomized Controlled Trial [Original Contribution]

JAMA — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion A 4CMenB vaccine is immunogenic against reference strains when administered with routine vaccines at 2, 4, and 6 or at 2, 3, and 4 months of age, producing minimal interference with the response to routine infant vaccinations. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00721396 (Source: JAMA)

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Risk Factors for Nonreceipt of Newborn Hepatitis B VaccineRisk Factors for Nonreceipt of Newborn Hepatitis B Vaccine

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

Which newborns are not receiving the hepatitis B vaccine? The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal® (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Well: HPV Vaccine Now Recommended for Boys, Hepatitis B Vaccine for Diabetes

NYT Health — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:29:32 +0100

Federal health officials recommended this week that all boys be routinely vaccinated against human papillomavirus, or HPV, and that people with diabetes be vaccinated against hepatitis B. (Source: NYT Health)

Well Blog: HPV Vaccine Now Recommended for Boys, Hepatitis B Vaccine for Diabetes

NYT Health — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:59:25 +0100

Recommendations For HPV And Hepatitis B Vaccinations Broadened By 2012 Adult Immunization Schedule

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now recommends routine HPV vaccination for males aged 11 to 12 years and catch-up vaccination for males aged 13 to 21. These are just two of the changes to the 2012 Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule published February 1 in Annals of Internal Medicine, the flagship journal of the American College of Physicians (ACP). In addition to the changes in the HPV vaccine, the ACIP now recommends vaccination against Hepatitis B for adults younger than age 60 who have diabetes, as soon as possible after diabetes is diagnosed... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Low vaccination rate puts teens at risk for hepatitis A

Modern Medicine Contemporary Pediatrics — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Less than half of adolescents have been vaccinated against the hepatitis A virus, leaving a large segment of this population susceptible to the infection as they enter adulthood. Yet participation is higher when health care providers recommend the vaccine to their patients. Find out how you can make a huge difference for your teen patients by encouraging compliance. (Source: Modern Medicine Contemporary Pediatrics)

The HBV Vaccination in Adults With Diabetes MellitusThe HBV Vaccination in Adults With Diabetes Mellitus

Medscape Today Headlines — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0100

How important is it for patients with diabetes to be vaccinated against hepatitis B? This new report explains. Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Changes to Tdap, HPV, Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommendations Among 2012 Schedule Highlights

AAFP Health of the Public — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 21:00:00 +0100

More than a dozen changes are reflected in the CDC's 2012 child, adolescent and adult immunization schedules. Developed in conjunction with the AAFP and other groups, several of the 2012 changes are especially pertinent to family physicians, according to the AAFP's liaison to the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, Jamie Loehr, M.D., of Ithaca, N.Y. "Some of the most important changes for family physicians in the 2012 immunization schedules involve the tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis vaccine for pregnant women and health care personnel, as well as the hepatitis B vaccine for patients with diabetes," Loehr told AAFP News Now (Source: AAFP Health of the Public)

Pediatricians' Group Recommends HPV Vaccine for Boys

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Pediatricians' Group Recommends HPV Vaccine for BoysCategory: Health NewsCreated: 2/1/2012 10:06:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 2/1/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

2012 adult immunization schedule broadens recommendations for HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(American College of Physicians) The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices now recommends routine HPV vaccination for males aged 11-12 years and catch-up vaccination for males aged 13-21. These are just two of the changes to the 2012 Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule being published Feb. 1 in Annals of Internal Medicine. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Hepatitis A Vaccination Coverage Among Adolescents in the United States

PEDIATRICS — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Hepatitis A infection causes severe disease among adolescents and adults. Hepatitis A vaccination (HepA) is recommended universally at 1 year, with vaccination through 18 years based on risk or desire for protection. This is the first study to evaluate adolescent HepA coverage in the United States using provider-reported vaccination data. HepA coverage was low among adolescents, leaving a large population susceptible to hepatitis A infection maturing into adulthood. (Read the full article) (Source: PEDIATRICS)

The Risk of Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura After Vaccination in Children and Adolescents

PEDIATRICS — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: ITP is unlikely after early childhood vaccines other than MMR. Because of the small number of exposed cases and potential confounding, the possible association of ITP with hepatitis A, varicella, and tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccines in older children requires further investigation. (Source: PEDIATRICS)

Improving the Quality of Immunization Delivery to an At-Risk Population: A Comprehensive Approach

PEDIATRICS — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: We were able to implement a comprehensive immunization QI program that was sustainable over time. (Source: PEDIATRICS)

Use of a Catalytic Model to Estimate Hepatitis A Incidence in a Low-Endemicity Country: Implications for Modeling Immunization Policies

Medical Decision Making — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study estimates the true incidence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection in Canada using a catalytic model. Methods. A catalytic model was used to reconcile HAV seroprevalence data with the corresponding true cumulative risk of infection estimated from incidence data. Results. The average annual reported incidence was 6.2 cases per 100 000 from 1980 to 1989 and 7.7/100 000 from 1990 to 1999, indicating that Canada is a low-incidence country. The seroprevalence in Canadian-born individuals (n = 7 studies) was approximately 1%–8% in ages <20, 1%–11% in ages 20–29, 7%–29% in ages 30–39, and higher in older age groups. Between 1980 and 1995, the catalytic model estimated an average annual incidence of 60/100 000 (95% confidence interval, 33–524); appr...

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Vaccination coverage among medical residents in Paris, France

Clinical Microbiology and Infection — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractMedical residents are particularly exposed to the risk of occupational infection. We aimed to determine the vaccination coverage in residents with an anonymous self‐reporting electronic questionnaire. A total of 250 residents entered this survey. Vaccination rates were particularly high for mandatory vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis, hepatitis B virus and tuberculosis). Regarding recommended vaccinations (influenza 45.6%, pertussis 65.2%, measles 62.8%, varicella 62.8%), rates were insufficient to prevent hospital epidemics, but higher than those reported in other healthcare workers. Further immunization programmes should target residents, and not only senior healthcare workers, with a critical role for occupational medicine departments. (Source: Clinical Microbio...

Long-term efficacy of 10-12 years after being immunized with Chinese hamster ovary cell derived hepatitis B vaccine in Chinese Rural Communities.

Vaccine — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: The long-term efficacy of the CHO-derived hepatitis B vaccine is good and after vaccination maternal transmission is the most important route of spreading HBV. PMID: 22296954 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

[Newsdesk] Research brief

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:05:13 +0100

Vaccines based on human adenovirus 5 (Ad5) induce protective immune responses against several pathogens in animal models, but the neutralising antibodies to Ad5 that most people make are likely to impair the immunological potency of such vaccines. To circumvent this potential problem, researchers have isolated more than 1000 chimpanzee adenovirus strains. Vaccine vectors derived from some of these viruses induce potent cellular immunity in mice. Moreover, in a phase 1 clinical trial, a chimpanzee adenovirus-based vector expressing non-structural hepatitis C virus (HCV) proteins induced broad, sustained T-cell responses to HCV. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

U.S. hepatitis A vaccine rates vary widely, survey shows

Reuters: Health — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:40:00 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Although about 85 percent of kids in two U.S. states have had a complete set of hepatitis A vaccines, overall just three in 10 have had both shots, according to a new survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Source: Reuters: Health)

U.S. Hepatitis A Vaccine Rates Vary Widely, Survey Shows

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:39:41 +0100

Although about 85 percent of kids in two U.S. states have had a complete set of hepatitis A vaccines, overall just three in 10 have had both shots, according to a new survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Childhood Immunization, Hepatitis A (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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Enhanced magnitude and breadth of neutralizing humoral response to a DNA vaccine targeting the DHBV envelope protein delivered by in vivo electroporation.

Virology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Khawaja G, Buronfosse T, Jamard C, Guerret S, Zoulim F, Luxembourg A, Hannaman D, Evans C, Hartmann D, Cova L Abstract We explored in the duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) model the impact of electroporation (EP)-mediated DNA vaccine delivery on the neutralizing humoral response to viral preS/S large envelope protein. EP enhanced the kinetics and magnitude of anti-preS response compared to the standard needle DNA injection (SI). Importantly, EP dramatically enhanced the neutralizing potency of the humoral response, since antibodies induced by low DNA dose (10μg) were able to highly neutralize DHBV and to recognize ten antigenic regions, including four neutralization epitopes. Whereas, SI-induced antibodies by the same low DNA dose were not neutralizing and the epitope pattern...

Virus-like particles of hepatitis B virus core protein containing five mimotopes of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) protect chickens against IBDV.

Vaccine — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Wang YS, Ouyang W, Liu XJ, He KW, Yu SQ, Zhang HB, Fan HJ, Lu CP Abstract Current infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) vaccines suffer from maternal antibody interference and mimotope vaccines might be an alternative. Previously we demonstrated an IBDV VP2 five-mimotope polypeptide, 5EPIS, elicited protective immunity in chickens. In the current study, the 5epis gene was inserted into a plasmid carrying human hepatitis B virus core protein (HBc) gene at its major immunodominant region site. The recombinant gene was efficiently expressed in Escherichia coli to produce chimeric protein HBc-5EPIS which self-assembles to virus-like particles (VLP). Two-week old specific-pathogen-free chickens were immunized intramuscularly with HBc-5EPIS VLP or 5EPIS polypeptide without adju...

Hepatitis B virus vaccine in chronic kidney disease: Improved immunogenicity by adjuvants? A meta-analysis of randomized trials.

Vaccine — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Our meta-analysis showed that adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine did not significantly improve the seroprotection rate in patients with renal insufficiency. These results do not support adjuvantation as an approach to increase the immunogenicity of existing recombinant vaccines towards HBV in this high-risk population. PMID: 22285268 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

In this issue.

European Journal of Immunology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:43:14 +0100

Authors: Abstract COVER IMAGE: The cover is based on a spinal cord histology section taken from a TNFR2(-/-) mouse adoptively transferred with TNFR2(-/-) Treg cells prior to immunization with MOG(35-55) to induce EAE. The section is stained with Luxol Fast blue to detect demyelination; Luxol Fast Red, which detects inflammatory infiltration, is the counterstain. The image is taken from the article by Tsakiri et al. (pp. 403-412) in which it is shown that TNFR2 on non-haematopoietic cells is necessary for Treg-cell suppressive activity and repression of EAE development. The colour of the image has been digitally altered for the cover. CMV: FINE TUNING THE NK-CELL RESPONSE DURING CHRONIC HEPATITIS INFECTION: Two recent studies reported on the expansion of NKG2C(+) NK cells during ch...

Mutations in the S gene region of hepatitis B virus genotype D in Golestan Province-Iran

Virus Genes — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:14:42 +0100

This study showed “a” determinant S gene mutations in HBV infected people with HBsAg positivity in Golestan Province-Iran. The rate of mutation in our study was 95%. Collectively, the results of this project exhibited that most of mutations were clustered in CD4 + antigenic epitopes. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s11262-012-0715-zAuthors Abdolvahab Moradi, Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, IranSareh Zhand, Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, IranAmir Ghaemi, Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Golestan University o...

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Most US Teenagers Lack Hepatitis A ImmunizationMost US Teenagers Lack Hepatitis A Immunization

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:45:29 +0100

Most adolescents in the United States lack immunization for hepatitis A, leaving them susceptible to infection going into adulthood. Greater provider education about vaccine efficacy is advised. Medscape Medical News (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Teens Lacking in Protection Against Hepatitis A (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Gastroenterology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- Most adolescents have not been vaccinated against hepatitis A virus, leaving them vulnerable to serious disease as they move into adulthood, a cross-sectional study showed. (Source: MedPage Today Gastroenterology)

In this issue

European Journal of Immunology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:21:09 +0100

AbstractCover imageThe cover is based on a spinal cord histology section taken from a TNFR2−/− mouse adoptively transferred with TNFR2−/− Treg cells prior to immunization with MOG35–55 to induce EAE. The section is stained with Luxol Fast blue to detect demyelination; Luxol Fast Red, which detects inflammatory infiltration, is the counterstain. The image is taken from the article by Tsakiri et al. (pp. 403–412) in which it is shown that TNFR2 on non‐haematopoietic cells is necessary for Treg‐cell suppressive activity and repression of EAE development. The colour of the image has been digitally altered for the cover.CMV: Fine tuning the NK‐cell response during chronic hepatitis infectionTwo recent studies reported on the expansion of NKG2C+ NK cells during chronic hepatiti...

Hepatitis A Vaccine Coverage Rates in Teens

About.com Pediatrics — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The hepatitis A vaccine is now a part of the CDC childhood immunization schedule and is routinely given to toddlers as a two dose series, with the first dose being given as early as 12-months of age and then second dose six-months later. Although the exact timing of when they get the shots may vary depending on when they get other vaccines, most toddlers finish the series by the time they are two-years-old....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

Many High-Risk Americans Don't Get Hepatitis B Vaccine

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

A recently published study investigating hepatitis B vaccination rates in the United States found that more than half of adults at risk for hepatitis B virus remain unvaccinated. With many of these individuals making contact with the healthcare system, including HIV testing, this statistic reflects many missed opportunities to vaccinate this population... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Global epidemiology of hepatitis B virus infection: New estimates of age-specific HBsAg seroprevalence and endemicity.

Vaccine — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Declines in HBV infection prevalence may be related to expanded immunization. The increasing overall number of individuals being chronically infected with HBV, and the widespread global differences in HBV prevalence call for targeted approaches to tackle HBV-related mortality and morbidity. HBV infection prevalence data are needed at country and sub-national level to estimate disease burden and guide health and vaccine policy. PMID: 22273662 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Many U.S. Adults Not Vaccinated for Hepatitis B

MedlinePlus Health News — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0100

Missed opportunities lead to many new infections each year, study found Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Hepatitis B, Immunization (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Liver disease in Viet Nam: Screening, surveillance, management and education: A 5‐year plan and call to action

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:46:58 +0100

We report here the initial steps taken as part of a comprehensive approach to liver disease that will ultimately include nationwide education for health‐care providers, health educators, and the public; expansion of nationwide screening for hepatitis B and C followed by hepatitis B virus vaccination or treatment of chronic hepatitis B and/or hepatitis C; education about alcoholic liver disease; long‐term surveillance for liver cancer; reduction of infection transmission related to medical, commercial, and personal re‐use of contaminated needles, syringes, sharp instruments, razors, and inadequately sterilized medical equipment; and ongoing collection and analysis of data about the prevalence of all forms of liver disease and the results of the expanded screening, vaccination, and tre...

Many U.S. Adults Not Vaccinated for Hepatitis B

The Doctors Lounge - Infections — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Missed opportunities lead to many new infections each year, study found (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Infections)

Hepatitis A among men who have sex with men in Barcelona, 1989-2010: insufficient control and need for new approaches

BMC Infectious Diseases — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Annual incidences remain high among MSM without tendency to decrease. More strategies which effectively reach the whole MSM community are needed. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

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Many high-risk Americans don't get hepatitis B vaccine

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Brown University) A study investigating hepatitis B vaccination rates in the United States found that more than half of adults at risk for hepatitis B virus remain unvaccinated. With many of these individuals making contact with the healthcare system, including HIV testing, this statistic reflects many missed opportunities to vaccinate this population. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

News From The Journal Of Clinical Investigation: Jan. 17, 2012

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0100

VIROLOGY: How to prevent hepatitis B virus reproducing Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major health problem worldwide, despite the fact that a highly effective preventative vaccine exists. A modified form of the immune molecule IFN-alpha is commonly used to treat individuals infected with HBV. The rationale behind this is that IFN-alpha inhibits HBV replication in vivo and in vitro, although the mechanisms by which it does this have not been clearly defined... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Vaccine Against Bacterial Meningitis Shows Promise

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Vaccine Against Bacterial Meningitis Shows PromiseCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/18/2012 10:06:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 1/18/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Hepatitis B vaccination coverage and uptake in prisons across England and Wales 2003-2010: A retrospective ecological study.

Vaccine — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Prisoners are a vulnerable group with a high prevalence of hepatitis B infection and the custodial setting plays an important role in the delivery of hepatitis B vaccination to this hard to reach group. This study suggests that variation in hepatitis B vaccination coverage and uptake may exist by geographical region and prison category. Further research is required to confirm and identify possible explanations for our findings. PMID: 22265944 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Potential New Therapy Approach For Hepatitis C Could Benefit 170 Million People Affected Worldwide

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0100

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have found a new way to block infection from the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the liver that could lead to new therapies for those affected by this and other infectious diseases. More than 170 million people worldwide suffer from hepatitis C, the disease caused by chronic HCV infection. The disease affects the liver and is one of the leading causes of liver cancer and liver transplant around the world. HCV is spread by blood-to-blood contact and there is no vaccine to prevent it... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Hepatitis B vaccine induces apoptotic death in Hepa1–6 cells

Apoptosis — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:10:56 +0100

We report that hepatitis B vaccine exposure resulted in significant upregulation of the key genes encoding caspase 7, caspase 9, Inhibitor caspase-activated DNase (ICAD), Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK-1), and Apoptotic protease activating factor 1 (Apaf-1). Upregulation of cleaved caspase 3,7 were detected by western blot in addition to Apaf-1 and caspase 9 expressions argues that cell death takes place via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in which release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria triggers the assembly of a caspase activation complex. We conclude that exposure of Hepa1–6 cells to a low dose of adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine leads to loss of mitochondrial integrity, apoptosis induction, and cell death, apoptosis effect was observed also in ...

Consensus Guidelines for the Management of Plaque Psoriasis [Consensus Statement]

Archives of Dermatology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The Canadian Guidelines for the Management of Plaque Psoriasis were reviewed by the entire National Psoriasis Foundation Medical Board and updated to include newly approved agents such as ustekinumab and to reflect practice patterns in the United States, where the excimer laser is approved for psoriasis treatment. Management of psoriasis in special populations is discussed. In the updated guidelines, we include sections on children, pregnant patients or pregnant partners of patients, nursing mothers, the elderly, patients with hepatitis B or C virus infections, human immunodeficiency virus–infected patients, and patients with malignant neoplasms, as well as sections on tumor necrosis factor blockers, elective surgery, and vaccinations. (Source: Archives of Dermatology)

Autoimmunity following Hepatitis B vaccine as part of the spectrum of 'Autoimmune (Auto-inflammatory) Syndrome induced by Adjuvants' (ASIA): analysis of 93 cases.

Lupus — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 14:30:03 +0100

Conclusions: Common clinical characteristics were observed among 93 patients diagnosed with immune-mediated conditions post-HBVv, suggesting a common denominator in these diseases. In addition, risk factors such as history of autoimmune diseases and the appearance of adverse event(s) during immunization may serve to predict the risk of post-immunization diseases. The ASIA criteria were found to be very useful among adults with post-vaccination events. The application of the ASIA criteria to pediatric populations requires further study. PMID: 22235045 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Lupus)

Surveillance for chronic hepatitis B virus infection - new york city, june 2008-november 2009.

MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl... — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This report summarizes investigations of 180 randomly selected HBV cases reported during June 2008-November 2009. Approximately two thirds (67%) of patients were Asian, and the most commonly reported reason for HBV testing was the patient's birth country or race/ethnicity (27%). In 70% of cases, the clinician did not know of any patient risk factors. Sixty-nine percent of clinicians stated that they counseled their patients about notifying close contacts about their infection, and 75% counseled about transmission and prevention. Sixty-two percent did not know their patient's hepatitis A vaccination status despite recommendations. This surveillance effort provided quantitative data on health disparities useful for identifying opportunities for outreach and education, and it showed that not ...

Hepatitis B in the United States: ongoing missed opportunities for hepatitis B vaccination, evidence from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey, 2007

Infection — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:53:02 +0100

Conclusions The findings of this study underscore the inadequacy of vaccination coverage in high-risk adults and highlight advantageous opportunities to bridge gaps in vaccination coverage. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical and Epidemiological StudyPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s15010-011-0241-2Authors F. Ladak, Program in Public Health, Division of Biomedicine, Brown University, 121 South Main Street, Box G, Providence, RI 02903, USAA. Gjelsvik, Program in Public Health, Center for Population Health and Clinical Epidemiology, Brown University, 121 South Main St. S121-2, Providence, RI 02912, USAE. Feller, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Box G-S121, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02912, USAS. Rosenthal, Division of Biomedicine, Brown Univers...

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Persistence of long-term immunity to hepatitis B among adolescents immunized at birth.

Vaccine — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Chaves SS, Fischer G, Groeger J, Patel PR, Thompson ND, Teshale EH, Stevenson K, Yano VM, Armstrong GL, Samandari T, Kamili S, Drobeniuc J, Hu DJ Abstract The long-term duration of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine-induced immunity among persons vaccinated starting at birth is still not well understood. Waning of vaccine-induced immunity could leave young adults at risk of hepatitis B virus infection due to behavioral or occupational exposures. We followed a cohort of children immunized starting at birth with a 3-dose regimen of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (5mcg, 2.5mcg, 2.5mcg). They were challenged with a booster dose of the hepatitis B vaccine 10 and 15 years after vaccination to assess anamnestic response as a measure of persistence of protection. Among 108 participa...

Correlates of Depressive Symptoms Among Homeless Young Adults

Western Journal of Nursing Research — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Adolescent homelessness has received increasing attention because of its fast growth throughout the United States and the poor mental outcomes experienced by homeless young people. This cross-sectional study (N = 156) identified correlates of depressive symptomatology among homeless young adults and investigated how depressive symptoms are influenced by the coping strategies these young adults use. The findings are based on analysis of baseline data collected for a hepatitis vaccination intervention pilot study conducted in partnership with a young adult’s drop-in center in Santa Monica, California. Standardized tools assessed drug use history, coping ability, and psychiatric symptomatology. Linear regression modeling was used to identify correlates of depressive symptom severity. Po...

Protective immune response against Toxoplasma gondii elicited by a recombinant DNA vaccine with a novel genetic adjuvant.

Vaccine — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Zhou H, Min J, Zhao Q, Gu Q, Cong H, Li Y, He S Abstract Previous immunological studies from our laboratory have demonstrated the potential role of Toxoplasma gondii antigens SAG1 and GRA2 as vaccine candidates. To further evaluate the vaccine's effects, a series of recombinant DNA vaccines pVAX1-SAG1, pVAX1-GRA2 and pVAX1-SAG1-GRA2, termed pSAG1, pGRA2 and pSAG1-GRA2, respectively, were constructed. A plasmid pVAX1-S/PreS2, termed pSPreS2 encoding hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) S and PreS2 as a novel genetic adjuvant, was also constructed. The expression abilities of those DNA plasmids were examined in HFF cells by Western blotting. Then BALB/c mice were intramuscularly immunized with DNA plasmids and followed by challenging with the highly virulent T. go...

Aggregate travel vs. single trip assessment: Arguments for cumulative risk analysis.

Vaccine — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Leder K, Chen LH, Wilson ME Abstract Vaccine recommendations for travellers are based on individual risk assessments of multiple factors, most importantly the destination and duration of the impending trip. Many people undertake frequent trips, but existing WHO, CDC and national advisory board recommendations do not explicitly consider cumulative travel-associated risks. Given the period of protection provided by many vaccines, in particular rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and yellow fever vaccines, an aggregate multi-trip risk assessment which views vaccines as an investment for future travel health may be more appropriate than separately evaluating the risks for each trip. PMID: 22234265 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Hep C Vaccine Shows Promise In First Trial

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0100

An experimental vaccine against the chronic liver disease hepatitis C has shown promising results in its first clinical trial in humans, say researchers from the University of Oxford, UK, who write about their findings in the 4 January online issue of Science Translational Medicine. However, they caution there is still a long way to go before we have an effective vaccine ready for clinical use. There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C virus (HCV), a major pathogen transmitted through the blood that infects some 170 million people around the world... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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NHS Choices 'Behind the Headlines' assessment of press reports on an experimental hepatitis C vaccine

NeLM - News — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Choices Area: News The 'Behind the Headlines' service from NHS Choices has featured a quality assessment of press reports discussing an early clinical trial of a hepatitis C vaccine that has shown 'promising' results. The assessment discusses the research (a Phase I clinical trial) and notes that it focused on safety, showing that the vaccine is well tolerated and safe to use. The preliminary results also indicate that the immune response may be similar to that of people with a natural immunity to the virus. There are however a number of limitations to the study that should be considered before concluding that a preventative vaccine against hepatitis C will be available: . Further research is needed to determine whether the vaccine will b...

Hepatitis A/B vaccine completion among homeless adults with history of incarceration

Journal of Forensic Nursing — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study determined predictors of vaccine completion in homeless adults (N= 297) who reported histories of incarceration and who participated in one of three nurse‐led hepatitis programs of different intensity. Moreover time since release from incarceration was also considered. Just over half of the former prisoners completed the vaccine series. Older age (≥40), having a partner, and chronic homelessness were associated with vaccine completion. Recent research has documented the difficulty in providing vaccine services to younger homeless persons and homeless males at risk for HBV. Additional strategies are needed to achieve HBV vaccination completion rates greater than 50% for formerly incarcerated homeless men. (Source: Journal of Forensic Nursing)

Experimental Hepatitis C Vaccine Shows Early PromiseExperimental Hepatitis C Vaccine Shows Early Promise

Medscape Gastroenterology Headlines — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:53:12 +0100

A new vaccine against hepatitis C has shown promising results in an early-stage clinical trial. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Gastroenterology Headlines)

Experimental hepatitis C vaccine tested

NHS News Feed — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:15:00 +0100

Conclusion This was a small, early-stage human study into a new vaccine against the hepatitis C virus. While such research is required to determine the safety profile of a new therapy, little information on the effectiveness of the vaccine can be gleaned from the study. Phase I clinical trials are designed to determine the optimal dose of a new therapy, and to assess the safety and tolerability of treatments. This study shows that the developed vaccine is well tolerated and safe to use, and the preliminary results indicate that the immune response may be similar to that of people with a natural immunity to the virus. In addition to the small study size and the focus on safety and not effectiveness, there are other practical limitations to the study that should be considered before it is co...

Novel Hepatitis C vaccine shows some early promise

USATODAY.com Health — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 15:52:55 +0100

A hepatitis C vaccine might be likely but is years away, researchers report. The virus can cause severe liver damage and even liver cancer. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

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Chimp Viruses Look Promising For Vaccines

AAAS — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:24:16 +0100

Science Translational Medicine: Chimp Viruses Could Aid Vaccine Development for Hepatitis C Vaccines developed using chimpanzee adenoviruses trigger immune protection against hepatitis C, two research teams report in Science Translational Medicine. (Source: AAAS)

Novel Hepatitis C Vaccine Shows Some Early Promise

MedicineNet Cancer General — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Novel Hepatitis C Vaccine Shows Some Early PromiseCategory: Health NewsCreated: 1/4/2012 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 1/5/2012 (Source: MedicineNet Cancer General)

Experimental hepatitis C vaccine shows early promise

Modern Medicine — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

LONDON (Reuters) - A new vaccine against hepatitis C has shown promising results in an early-stage clinical trial, British and Italian scientists said on Wednesday. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Efficacy results of a trial of a herpes simplex vaccine.

Herpes — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: In a study population that was representative of the general population of HSV-1- and HSV-2-seronegative women, the investigational vaccine was effective in preventing HSV-1 genital disease and infection but not in preventing HSV-2 disease or infection. (Funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and GlaxoSmithKline; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00057330.). PMID: 22216840 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Herpes)

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Safety and immunogenicity of a modified process hepatitis B vaccine in healthy neonates.

Vaccine — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The safety profile of mpHBV was comparable to that of the control vaccine. The geometric mean antibody titer for mpHBV was higher than control vaccine in this infant population, but the difference did not meet the predefined statistical criterion for superiority. PMID: 22227229 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Hep C vaccine trial 'promising'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:21:39 +0100

An early clinical trial of a hepatitis C vaccine has shown "promising" results, according to researchers at Oxford University. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Novel Hepatitis C Vaccine Shows Some Early Promise

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0100

But any clinically valuable treatment is years away, researchers say Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Hepatitis C, Immunization (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Experimental hepatitis C vaccine shows early promise

Reuters: Health — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 19:08:53 +0100

LONDON (Reuters) - A new vaccine against the chronic liver disease hepatitis C has shown promising results in an early-stage clinical trial in humans, British and Italian scientists said Wednesday. (Source: Reuters: Health)

[Articles] Cross-protective efficacy of HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine against cervical infection and precancer caused by non-vaccine oncogenic HPV types: 4-year end-of-study analysis of the randomised, double-blind PATRICIA trial

The Lancet Oncology — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

SummaryBackgroundWe evaluated the efficacy of the human papillomavirus HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine against non-vaccine oncogenic HPV types in the end-of-study analysis after 4 years of follow-up in PATRICIA (PApilloma TRIal against Cancer In young Adults).MethodsHealthy women aged 15–25 years with no more than six lifetime sexual partners were included in PATRICIA irrespective of their baseline HPV DNA status, HPV-16 or HPV-18 serostatus, or cytology. Women were randomly assigned (1:1) to HPV-16/18 vaccine or a control hepatitis A vaccine, via an internet-based central randomisation system using a minimisation algorithm to account for age ranges and study sites. (Source: The Lancet Oncology)

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New developments in small molecular compounds for anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy.

J Zhejiang Univ Sci ... — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Tong J, Wang YW, Lu YA Abstract Infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects approximately 170 million people worldwide. However, no vaccine or immunoglobulin is currently available for the prevention of HCV infection. The standard of care (SOC) involving pegylated interferon-α (PEG-IFN α) plus ribavirin (RBV) for 48 weeks results in a sustained virologic response in less than 50% of patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1, the most prevalent type of HCV in North America and Europe. Recently, reliable in vitro culture systems have been developed for accelerating antiviral therapy research, and many new specifically targeted antiviral therapies for hepatitis C (STAT-C) and treatment strategies are being evaluated in clinical trials. These new antiviral agents are e...

The immunological response to parenteral vaccination with recombinant HBsAg Virus-Like particles expressing Helicobacter pylori KatA epitopes in a murine H. pylori challenge model.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

In this study we inserted overlapping sequences from the carboxy terminus of the Helicobacter pylori katA gene into HBsAg-S. The HBsAg-S-KatA fusion proteins were able to assemble into secretion-competent VLPs (VLP-KatA). The VLP-KatA proteins were able to induce KatA specific antibodies in immunised mice. The mean total IgG antibody titres 41 days post primary immunization with VLP-KatA (2.3 × 10(3)) were significantly greater (p <0.05) than observed for vaccination with VLP alone (5.2 × 10(2)). Measurement of IgG isotypes revealed responses to both 1gG1 and IgG2a (mean titres 9.0 × 10(4) and 2.6 × 10(4) respectively) with the IgG2a response to vaccination with VLP-KatA being significantly higher compared to mice immunised with KatA alone (p <0.05). Following challenge of mice w...

[Vaccination against hepatitis B in children: Survey on knowledge, opinions, and practices of general practitioners in Île-de-France in 2009.]

Archives de Pediatrie — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, in 2009, over a quarter of GPs were refractory to the vaccination proposal in infants but the hexavalent vaccine seems to have a significant impact on practices. PMID: 22209381 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Archives de Pediatrie)

Use of Hepatitis B Vaccination for Adults with Diabetes Mellitus: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)

CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 04:36:08 +0100

(Source: CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report)

Hepatitis B vaccine recommended for adults with diabetes

USATODAY.com Health — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 15:33:27 +0100

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all unvaccinated adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes aged 19 to 59, say new guidelines. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

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Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommended for Adults With Diabetes

MedicineNet Cancer General — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommended for Adults With DiabetesCategory: Health NewsCreated: 12/22/2011 2:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 12/23/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Cancer General)

Use of Hepatitis B Vaccination for Adults with Diabetes Mellitus: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl... — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

This report summarizes these recommendations and provides the rationale used by ACIP to inform their decision making. PMID: 22189894 [PubMed - in process] (Source: MMWR Morb Mortal Wkl...)

CDC: Hep B Vaccine Needed for Diabetic Adults (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Nephrology — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:43:06 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- Diabetic adults should be vaccinated against hepatitis B virus as soon as possible after the diabetes diagnosis is made, according to the CDC. (Source: MedPage Today Nephrology)

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Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommended for Adults With Diabetes

The Doctors Lounge - Oncology — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:00:00 +0100

Shared blood glucose monitors, finger-stick devices pose infection risk, experts warn (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Oncology)

Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommended for Adults with Diabetes

MedlinePlus Health News — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:00:00 +0100

Shared blood glucose monitors, finger-stick devices pose infection risk, experts warnSource: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Pages: Diabetes, Hepatitis B, Immunization (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommended for Adults With Diabetes

Cancercompass News: Other Cancer — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Shared blood glucose monitors, finger-stick devices pose infection risk, experts warn (Source: Cancercompass News: Other Cancer)

Comparison between Elecsys HBsAg II and Architect HBsAg QT assays for quantification of hepatitis B surface antigen among patients co-infected with HIV and hepatitis B virus.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, the Elecsys assay, with automatic on-board dilution, is capable of quantifying serum HBsAg levels in HIV-HBV co-infected patients, with very high correlation compared to the Architect assay. PMID: 22190396 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Clinical and Vaccine Immunology)

HAVCR1 gene haplotypes and infection by different viral hepatitis C virus genotypes.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Abad-Molina C, Garcia-Lozano JR, Montes-Cano MA, Torres-Cornejo A, Torrecillas F, Aguilar-Reina J, Romero-Gómez M, López-Cortés LF, Núñez-Roldan A, González-Escribano MF Abstract The HAVCR1 gene is highly polymorphic and several variants have been associated with susceptibility to allergic and autoimmune diseases. The HAVCR1 region was identified as a candidate for hepatitis C virus (HCV) natural clearance in a genotyping study of selected immune response genes in both the European-American and African-American populations. The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of HAVCR1 in the outcome of HCV infection in the Spanish population. Two cohorts consisting of 354 subjects (285 with persistent HCV mono-infection and 69 with natural clearance) and 182 co...

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Randomized Trial: Immunogenicity and Safety of Coadministered Human Papillomavirus-16/18 AS04-Adjuvanted Vaccine and Combined Hepatitis A and B Vaccine in Girls

Journal of Adolescent Health — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 18:43:29 +0100

Conclusions: Results support coadministration of HPV-16/18 vaccine with HAB vaccine in girls aged 9–15 years. The HPV-16/18 vaccine was immunogenic and generally well tolerated in 9-year-old girls. (Source: Journal of Adolescent Health)

NIH Suspends New Chimp Research

Public Policy Reports — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 07:27:32 +0100

On 15 December, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced that it temporarily suspended funding for new biomedical and behavioral research on chimpanzees. The announcement was a response to a report released the same day by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). The IOM report concluded that most current medical research on chimpanzees is not necessary. The report does not endorse a ban on chimp research; rather it recommends a set of uniform criteria for determining when use of chimpanzees in research is necessary. The IOM report was produced at the request of the NIH. In biomedical research, the use of chimpanzees could be warranted if not conducting the research would “significantly slow or prevent important advancement to prevent, control and/or treat life-threatening or debil...

Derivation of non-infectious envelope proteins from virions isolated from plasma negative for HIV antibodies.

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Vyas GN, Stoddart CA, Killian MS, Brennan TV, Goldberg T, Ziman A, Bryson Y Abstract Natural membrane-bound HIV-1 envelope proteins (mHIVenv) could be used to produce an effective subunit vaccine against HIV infection, akin to effective vaccination against HBV infection using the hepatitis B surface antigen. The quaternary structure of mHIVenv is postulated to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies protective against HIV-1 transmission. The founder virus transmitted to infected individuals during acute HIV-1 infection is genetically homogeneous and restricted to CCR5-tropic phenotype. Therefore, isolates of plasma-derived HIV-1 (PHIV) from infected blood donors while negative for antibodies to HIV proteins were selected for expansion in primary lymphocytes as an optimized ...

Impact of the implementation of a vaccination strategy on hepatitis B virus infections in China over a 20-year period

International Journal of Infectious Diseases — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

This article reviews the impact of HBV vaccination throughout the past 20 years in China. Before the introduction of the HBV vaccination program, approximately 9.8% of the general Chinese population tested positive for hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg). Since 1992, vaccination coverage has increased each year. In 1999, a National Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) review showed that the immunization coverage with three doses of HBV vaccine was 70.7%, and reached 99.0% in Beijing. The HBsAg carrier rate in the general population decreased to 7.2% in 2006. In particular, the prevalence of HBsAg decreased to 2.3% among children aged 5–14 years and to 1.0% among children younger than 5 years. In addition, the administration of the HBV vaccine may have reduced the risk of hepato...

Immune Cells Exhausted By Chronic Viral Infection Can Be Revived

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Chronic infections by viruses such as HIV or hepatitis C eventually take hold because they wear the immune system out, a phenomenon immunologists describe as exhaustion. Yet exhausted immune cells can be revived after the introduction of fresh cells that act like coaches giving a pep talk, researchers at Emory Vaccine Center have found. Their findings provide support for an emerging strategy for treating chronic infections: infusing immune cells back into patients after a period of conditioning... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Chimps to be spared from use in US medical experiments

Guardian Unlimited Science — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 22:08:22 +0100

American scientific group urges strict limits on laboratory research using chimpanzeesChimpanzees should hardly ever be used for medical research, a prestigious scientific group told the US government on Thursday – advice that means days in the laboratory may be numbered for humans' closest relatives.The Institute of Medicine stopped short of recommending the outright ban that animal rights activists had pushed for.Instead, it urged strict limits that would make invasive experiments with chimps essentially a last resort, saying today's more advanced research tools mean the primates' use only rarely would be necessary enough to outweigh the moral costs.Chimp research was already dwindling fast as scientists turned to less costly and less ethically charged alternatives.The US government ag...

Long-term immunogenicity of hepatitis B vaccination in children and adolescents in a southern Italian town

Infection — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 16:51:33 +0100

Conclusions Most subjects maintained protective antibodies for a considerable number of years after vaccination. Vaccination in adolescence results in more prolonged immunogenicity than vaccination in infancy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical and Epidemiological StudyPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s15010-011-0233-2Authors T. Stroffolini, Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Institute of Tropical Diseases, Policlinico Umberto I, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, ItalyV. Guadagnino, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Loc. Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, ItalyB. Caroleo, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro, Viale Europa, Loc....

Immunization schedule of the Spanish Association of Pediatrics: 2012 recommendations.

Anales de Pediatria — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Moreno-Pérez D, Alvarez García FJ, Aristegui Fernández J, Barrio Corrales F, Cilleruelo Ortega MJ, Corretger Rauet JM, González-Hachero J, Hernández-Sampelayo Matos T, Merino Moína M, Ortigosa Del Castillo L, Ruiz-Contreras J, Abstract The Advisory Committee on Vaccines of the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (CAV-AEP) updates the immunization schedule every year, taking into account epidemiological data as well as evidence on the effectiveness and efficiency of vaccines. The present schedule includes grades of recommendation. We have graded as routine vaccinations those that the CAV-AEP believes all children should receive; as recommended those that fit the profile for universal childhood immunization and would ideally be given to all children, but that can be pri...

Demographics, socio‐behavioral factors, and drug use patterns: What matters in spontaneous HCV clearance?

Journal of Medical Virology — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:14:01 +0100

AbstractHepatitis C virus (HCV), an emerging bloodborne pathogen, causes chronic liver disease frequently except in about 10–20% of infections which undergo spontaneous resolution. Investigating factors that influence viral clearance is essential to understand the natural history of this infection and establishing novel strategies for prevention and treatment. HCV clearance was estimated in a unique cohort of 1,260 HIV and HBV negative current drug users enrolled for a hepatitis B vaccination study. It was defined as the inability to detect viral RNA using a PCR method in presence of serum anti‐HCV antibody EIA. Associated demographic and socio‐behavioral factors including drug use patterns were identified from the enrolled subjects using multivariate regression analysis. 33.3% (420/...

Comprehensive analysis of the prevalence of hepatitis B virus escape mutations in the major hydrophilic region of surface antigen

Journal of Medical Virology — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:13:54 +0100

AbstractEscape mutations in the major hydrophilic region (MHR) of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) are reported widely worldwide; these mutations lead to diagnostic problems, emergence of vaccine‐escape mutants, and hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) therapy failure. However, the prevalence of these mutations in different genotypes remains to be studied systematically. In the current study, 11,221 non‐redundant hepatitis B virus (HBV) sequences of 8 genotypes (from A to H), obtained from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), were analyzed to determine the prevalence of HBsAg escape mutations that were previously described. Eight important mutations associated with diagnostic failure, P120T, T126S, Q129H, G130N, S143L, D144A, and G145A/R, were prevalent in one or m...

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Updated Case Counts

About.com Pediatrics — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:44:55 +0100

Some updated case counts of vaccine-preventable diseases (not all pediatric) include: at least 223 reported cases of measles for the year, the most since 1996 120 pediatric flu deaths from the 2010-2011 flu season, an increase from the previous total of 118 deaths to include two deaths that were recently reported to the CDC 7 cases of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) 168 cases of invasive meningococcal disease types A, C, Y, and W-135 1,078 cases of hepatitis A 2,315 cases of hepatitis B 13,188 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) ...Read Full Post (Source: About.com Pediatrics)

[Immunization schedule of the Spanish Association of Pediatrics: 2012 recommendations.]

Anales de Pediatria — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Moreno-Pérez D, Alvarez García FJ, Arístegui Fernández J, Barrio Corrales F, Cilleruelo Ortega MJ, Corretger Rauet JM, González-Hachero J, Hernández-Sampelayo Matos T, Merino Moína M, Ortigosa Del Castillo L, Ruiz-Contreras J, Abstract The Advisory Committee on Vaccines of the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (CAV-AEP) updates the immunization schedule every year, taking into account epidemiological data as well as evidence on the effectiveness and efficency of vaccines. The present schedule includes grades of recommendation. We have graded as routine vaccinations those that the CAV-AEP believes all children should receive; as recommended those that fit the profile for universal childhood immunization and would ideally be given to all children, but that can be pri...

Safety of Hepatitis B, Pneumococcal Polysaccharide and Meningococcal Polysaccharide Vaccines in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review

Drug Safety — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:05:59 +0100

(Source: Drug Safety)

Hepatitis B Vaccination for Preterm Infants

Journal of Pediatric Health Care — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:58:39 +0100

In their informative article published in the January/February 2011 issue of JPHC regarding Evidence-based Care Management of the Late Preterm Infant, the authors presented the case of an 1814 g preterm infant born to a mother who was positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (). It was noted that the hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immunoglobulin should be administered within the first 12 hours after birth and that the second dose of hepatitis B vaccine should be administered at 1 month of age. It is important for readers to note that there is an exception to this recommendation because of the infant’s birth weight. (Source: Journal of Pediatric Health Care)

'Pep talk' can revive immune cells exhausted by chronic viral infection

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Emory University) Chronic infections by viruses such as HIV or hepatitis C eventually take hold because they wear the immune system out, a phenomenon immunologists describe as exhaustion. Yet exhausted immune cells can be revived after the introduction of fresh cells that act like coaches giving a pep talk, researchers at Emory Vaccine Center have found. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Risk of hepatitis B reactivation in patients treated with tumor necrosis factor‐α inhibitors

Hepatology Research — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The use of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) inhibitors has been increasing especially in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As TNF‐α inhibitors are strongly immunosuppressive, the occurrence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation has recently been observed. Reports suggest a higher risk of complicating HBV reactivation in carriers who are treated with TNF‐α inhibitors. Therefore, HBV carriers are recommended to undergo prophylactic administration of nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs). Our literary analysis uncovered several characteristics of de novo hepatitis B due to TNF‐α inhibitors. First, the time between the start of TNF‐α inhibitors and the occurrence of de novo hepatitis was longer than one year. Second, patients were usually treated with additional non‐biologic ...

More parents requesting alternative vaccine schedules

American Medical News - HEALTH — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:12:44 +0100

Pediatricians are more willing to delay the hepatitis B and varicella vaccines than immunizations for Haemophilus influenzae type b and DTaP, a study shows. (Source: American Medical News - HEALTH)

Efficacy of High-Dose Intra-dermal Hepatitis B Virus Vaccine in Previous Vaccination Non-responders with Chronic Liver Disease

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:24:44 +0100

Conclusions High-dose ID HBV vaccination of previous CLD non-responders to the standard IM regimen with boost dosing is both safe and efficacious, and should be considered for all such groups. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1996-0Authors S. Dhillon, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, OSF St. Francis Medical Center, 2805N. Knoxville Avenue, Suite 209, Peoria, IL 61604, USAC. Moore, Division of Digestive Diseases, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USAS. D. Li, Mankato, MN, USAA. Aziz, Hoffman Estates, IL, USAA. Kakar, Premier Medical Associates, Fremont, CA, USAA. Dosanjh, Premier Medical Associates, Fremont, CA, USAA. Beesla, Premier Medical Associates, Fremont, CA, USAL...

Influenza vaccine and adjuvant.

Yakugaku Zasshi : Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:48:02 +0100

Authors: Nakayama T Abstract Adjuvant is originated from the Latin word "adjuvare" which means "help" in English to enhance the immunological responses when given together with antigens. The beginning of adjuvant was mineral oil which enhanced the immune response when it was given with inactivated Salmonella typhimurium. Aluminium salt was used to precipitate diphtheria toxoid and increased level of antibody response was demonstrated when administered with alum-precipitated antigens. Since 1930, aluminium salt has been used as DTaP (diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis vaccine) adjuvant. Many candidates were tested for adjuvant activity but only aluminum salt is allowed to use for human vaccines. New adjuvant MF59, oil-in-water emulsion type, was developed for influenza vaccine f...

In vitro models for the analysis of HCV life cycle

Microbiology and Immunology — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

ABSTRACTChronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects approximately 170 million people worldwide. HCV infection is a major global health problem since it can be complicated with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. So far, there is no vaccine available and the nonspecific, interferon‐based treatments in use now have significant side effects and are frequently ineffective since only around 50% of treated patients with genotype 1 and 4 demonstrate HCV clearance. The lack of suitable in vitro and in vivo models for the analysis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has hampered elucidation of the HCV life cycle and the development of both protective and therapeutic strategies against HCV infection. This review focuses on the progress made towards the establishment of such models...

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Use of pre S containing Hepatitis B virus surface antigens and a powerful adjuvant to develop an immune therapy for Hepatitis B virus chronic infection.

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Yum JS, Ahn BC, Jo HJ, Kim DY, Kim KH, Kim HS, Sung YC, Yoon J, Morrey J, Moon HM Abstract An HBV vaccine has been developed using a new adjuvant and HBV surface antigens produced from a CHO cell line. Purified HBV surface antigens are composed of L-protein, M-protein and S-protein in the mixture of 20 nm and 40 nm diameter particles and filamentous forms. This HBV surface antigen formulated with L-pampo, a proprietary adjuvant, induced 10 times more antibody than the same antigen with alum, and it was capable of inducing strong immune responses in three different HBV transgenic mice. In spite of the presence of large amount of HBV antigen in the blood, normally these transgenic mice had no detectable amount of antibody against HBV surface antigen. After the immunization, ...

Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease Have a Lower Response Rate to HBV Vaccination Compared to Controls

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 16:59:19 +0100

Conclusions The response rate of IBD patients receiving HBV vaccinations were significantly lower compared to controls. The response rate of those receiving immunosuppressive therapy and with active disease was much too low. Vaccination should be given during remission and at immunosuppression-free times. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1980-8Authors Mustafa Erhan Altunöz, Department of Gastroenterology, Haydarpaşa Numune Education and Research Hospital, Tibbiye Cad. No:40, 34668 Üsküdar, Istanbul, TurkeyEbubekir Şenateş, Department of Gastroenterology, Haydarpaşa Numune Education and Research Hospital, Tibbiye Cad. No:40, 34668 Üsküdar, Istanbul, TurkeyAtakan Yeşil, Department of Gastroenterology, Hayda...

Immunotherapy of Lung Adenocarcinoma Patient with Peptide-Pulsed Dendritic Cells: a Case Report

Archivum Immunologiae et Therapiae Experimentalis — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:42:17 +0100

We described the effect of peptide-loaded DCs-based immunotherapy on patient with recurrent surgically resected adenocarcinoma with bronchoalveolar feature with co-existing of Takayasu arteritis and chronic hepatitis B. In January 2010, 61-year-old patient received subcutaneously four bi-weekly vaccinations of DCs loaded with MUC1 and MAGE-3 epitopes. Additionally, he received three bi-weekly booster vaccinations after 7 months from the first course of immunotherapy. Delayed-type hypersensitivity test was positive only for MAGE-3 antigen. The evidence expansion of MAGE-3-specific CD8+ cells after first vaccination and after third vaccination during boosters injections was observed (from 0.08% before vaccination to 0.5% after first vaccination; from 0.05% before booster vaccinatio...

Meta-Analysis: The Impact of Nutritional Status on the Immune Response to Hepatitis B Virus Vaccine in Chronic Kidney Disease

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:39:59 +0100

Conclusions An increased risk exists of impaired serologic response to HBV vaccine response among chronic kidney disease patients having poor nutrition status. Additional studies are needed to understand better the mechanisms underlying the relationship between nutritional status and serological response to HBV vaccine among patients with CKD. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1987-1Authors Fabrizio Fabrizi, Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Maggiore Hospital, IRCCS Foundation, Pad. Croff, Via Commenda 15, 20122 Milan, ItalyVivek Dixit, Division of Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USAPaul Martin, Division of Hepatology, School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USAMichel J...

Variants in ABCB1, TGFB1, and XRCC1 genes and susceptibility to viral hepatitis A infection in mexican americans

Hepatology — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions:Genetic variants in ABCB1, TGFB1, and XRCC1 appear to be associated with susceptibility to HAV infection among Mexican Americans. Replication studies involving larger population samples are warranted. (HEPATOLOGY 2011.) (Source: Hepatology)

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Safety of the hepatitis E vaccine for pregnant women: A preliminary analysis

Hepatology — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Hepatology)

East African immigrant children in Australia have poor immunisation coverage

Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Paediatric East African immigrants in Victoria are very likely to be inadequately immunised and parent‐reported vaccination status does not predict serological immunity. Full catch‐up immunisation is recommended where immunisation status is unknown and written records are unavailable. Consideration should be given to policy and program development to provide timely and complete immunisation coverage in this group after arrival in Australia. (Source: Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health)

Current Perspective of HCV NS5B Inhibitors: A Review.

Current Medicinal Chemistry — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Patil VM, Gupta SP, Samanta S, Masand N Abstract Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has emerged as one of the most significant disease to affect humans. Despite its large medical and economical impact, there are no vaccines or efficient therapies without major side effects. The HCV non-structural protein 5B (NS5B) is the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase responsible for the complete copy of the RNA viral genome and is a target of choice for the development of anti-HCV drugs. Although many small molecules have been identified as allosteric inhibitors of NS5B, very few are active in clinical applications. Developments in the field have prompted us to review the research work on HCV NS5B polymerase inhibitors, especially their structure activity relationships and molecular modeling...

High‐capacity adenoviral vectors circumvent the limitations of ΔE1 and ΔE1/ΔE3 adenovirus vectors to induce multispecific transgene product‐directed CD8 T‐cell responses

The Journal of Gene Medicine — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsDe novo expression of viral genes from ΔE1Ad vector genomes restricts the multispecificity of transgene product‐specific CTLs by immunodominance effects. HC‐Ad vectors devoid of Ad genes are favorable for the induction of both multispecific CD8 T‐cell responses and high antibody responses. Our results suggest the deletion of Ad genes as an important means for developing potent Ad‐based vectored vaccines. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: The Journal of Gene Medicine)

Lessons from Chimpanzee-based Research on Human Disease: The Implications of Genetic Differences.

Alternatives to Laboratory Animals : ATLA — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bailey J Abstract Assertions that the use of chimpanzees to investigate human diseases is valid scientifically are frequently based on a reported 98-99% genetic similarity between the species. Critical analyses of the relevance of chimpanzee studies to human biology, however, indicate that this genetic similarity does not result in sufficient physiological similarity for the chimpanzee to constitute a good model for research, and furthermore, that chimpanzee data do not translate well to progress in clinical practice for humans. Leading examples include the minimal citations of chimpanzee research that is relevant to human medicine, the highly different pathology of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C virus infection in the two species, the lack of correlation in the efficacy of vacc...

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Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C among oncology patients in Turkey.

Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, the seroprevalence of HBV was similar to previous data in Turkey. This could be due to widespread vaccination programmes. The seroprevalence of low anti-HCV may be because of controlled blood transfusion. Oncology patients should be monitored for their protective antibody levels against HBV, and they must be included in the vaccination programme. Their anti-HCV status should also be checked as well. PMID: 22283040 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition)

Henoch-schönlein purpura after hepatitis a vaccination: the role of interleukin 10?

Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:06:29 +0100

Authors: Park SJ, Shin JI PMID: 22123392 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology)

Doctors in a Bind When Parents Want to Delay, Skip Vaccines

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Doctors in a Bind When Parents Want to Delay, Skip VaccinesCategory: Health NewsCreated: 11/28/2011 10:05:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 11/28/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Hepatitis C virus – T‐cell responses and viral escape mutations

European Journal of Immunology — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractHepatitis C virus (HCV) is a small, enveloped RNA virus and the number of HCV‐infected individuals worldwide is estimated to be approximately 170 million. Most HCV infections persist, with up to 80% of all cases leading to chronic hepatitis associated with liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV–host interactions have a crucial role in viral survival, persistence, pathogenicity of infection, and disease progression. Maintenance of a vigorous, sustained cellular immune response recognizing multiple epitopes is essential for viral clearance. To escape immune surveillance, HCV alters its epitopes so that they are no‐longer recognized by T cells and neutralizing antibodies, in addition to interfering with host cell cellular components and signaling pathways. ...

A narrative study of exposures to potentially infected body fluids referred to a regional infectious diseases unit: Category: Scientific free paper

Journal of Infection — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:05:46 +0100

Exposure to potentially infected body fluids is a significant occupational hazard for health care workers (HCW). While those not involved in health care work encounter this hazard less frequently, they remain at risk to exposures such as injuries from discarded needles and during assaults. Such exposures, particularly to blood, carry the potential for transmission of infection, most notably hepatitis B, C and HIV, although such events are rare. They are also the source of considerable distress and can result in long-term psychological sequelae. Appropriate initial first aid management of the injury is likely to reduce incidence of transmission and specific measures such as hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and vaccination and HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent transmission of ...

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Hepatitis B prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care: a review

Occupational Medicine — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection is associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The likelihood of developing CHB is related to the age at which infection is acquired; the risk being lowest in adults and >90% in neonates whose mothers are hepatitis B e antigen positive. Treatment of CHB infection aims to clear HBV DNA and prevent the development of complications. There are currently seven drugs available for the treatment of CHB: five nucleos(t)ide analogues and two interferon-based therapies. Long-term treatment is often required, and the decision to treat is based on clinical assessment including the phase of CHB infection and the pr...

The HPV vaccine impact monitoring project (HPV-IMPACT): assessing early evidence of vaccination impact on HPV-associated cervical cancer precursor lesions

Cancer Causes and Control — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:58 +0100

Abstract The following paper describes a collaboration between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and five Emerging Infections Program sites to develop a comprehensive population-based approach to monitoring human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine impact on cervical cancer precursors and associated HPV genotypes. The process of establishing this novel monitoring system is described, and development details such as enumeration of sources for reporting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2/3 and adenocarcinoma in situ, approaches to case ascertainment, electronic reporting, and HPV typing are outlined. Implementation of a feasible and sustainable surveillance system for HPV-associated cervical precancers will enable evaluation of the direct impact of HPV vaccination. ...

Hepatitis B vaccine recombinant: Lack of efficacy in prevention of hepatitis B: case report

Reactions — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 06:51:47 +0100

(Source: Reactions)

Highlights from this issue

Sexually Transmitted Infections — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

The British Medical Journal has for many years run a Christmas special, in which doctors and researchers vie to publish content from the bizarre to the seasonal. This year, we are emulating our ‘big sister’ with the inaugural edition of a Winter Special to coincide with the astrological sign of Capricorn. Our first theme is the history of the specialty, seen through the eyes of a young historian reading our journal for the first time. As you may know, our archive runs back to 1925 when we began as the British Journal of Venereology. Early editions advertised the names and addresses of venereal disease attendants, healthcare assistants of the distant past and displaced from their profession by the cessation of hostilities, now seeking new posts. We asked Huw du Boulay to explore...

Prevalence and factors associated with HSV-2 and hepatitis B infections among truck drivers crossing the southern Brazilian border

Sexually Transmitted Infections — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions In this sample of truck drivers in southern Brazil, HIV prevalence was lower than national population estimates; exposure to HBV was higher than population estimates, while per cent positive for HSV-2 was similar to population estimates. The low prevalence of HIV in truck drivers indicates prevention successes; however, future HIV prevention programming should incorporate HBV vaccination and sexually transmitted infection prevention. (Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections)

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TWINRIX (Hepatitis A And Hepatitis B (Recombinant) Vaccine) Injection, Suspension [GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals SA]

DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Updated Date: Nov 22, 2011 EST (Source: DailyMed Drug Label Updates for the last seven days (since May 20, 2007 EST))

Cancer vaccines.

Primary Care — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:25:02 +0100

Authors: Chambers CV Abstract The term cancer vaccines encompasses 2 different types of vaccines. Prophylactic vaccines block infection by viruses that can alter host DNA and result in cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine and the human papillomavirus vaccines are examples of prophylactic vaccines that can prevent cancer from developing. More recently, therapeutic vaccines have been developed and used as adjunctive therapy in patients who have already been diagnosed with cancer. Therapeutic vaccines stimulate the host's immune system to recognize cancer cells as foreign and to attack them. Most of the therapeutic vaccines being studied are used in combination with other forms of cancer therapy. PMID: 22094141 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Primary Care)

Liver Disease in Viet Nam: Screening, Surveillance, Management and Education

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

We report here the initial steps taken as part of a comprehensive approach to liver disease that will ultimately include nationwide education for healthcare providers, health educators, and the public; expansion of nationwide screening for hepatitis B and C followed by HBV vaccination or treatment of chronic HBV and/or HCV; education about alcoholic liver disease; long‐term surveillance for liver cancer; reduction of infection transmission related to medical, commercial, and personal re‐use of contaminated needles, syringes, sharp instruments, razors, and inadequately sterilized medical equipment; and ongoing collection and analysis of data about the prevalence of all forms of liver disease and the results of the expanded screening, vaccination, and treatment programs. We report the be...

A tetravalent meningococcal serogroups A, C, W-135, and Y tetanus toxoid conjugate vaccine is immunogenic and well-tolerated when co-administered with Twinrix(®) in subjects aged 11-17 years: An open, randomised, controlled trial.

Vaccine — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

This study suggests that MenACWY-TT vaccine could be co-administered with HepA/B without adversely impacting the immunogenicity, safety and reactogenicity of either of the vaccines. PMID: 22107850 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Acute hepatitis B: the limits of maintaining patient confidentiality

International Journal of STD and AIDS — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

We present a case of intrafamilial transmission of acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) following failure to self-disclose status to family members. Complex confidentiality issues can arise following a diagnosis of HBV infection. (Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS)

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High‐capacity adenoviral vectors circumvent the limitations of ΔE1 and ΔE1/ΔE3 Ad vectors to induce multispecific transgene product‐directed CD8 T cell responses

The Journal of Gene Medicine — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsDe novo expression of viral genes from ΔE1Ad vector genomes restricts the multispecificity of transgene product‐specific CTLs by immunodominance effects. HC‐Ad vectors devoid of adenovirus genes are favorable for the induction of both multispecific CD8 T cell responses and high antibody responses. Our results suggest deletion of adenovirus genes as an important means to develop potent adenovirus‐based vectored vaccines. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: The Journal of Gene Medicine)

Vaccine Cut Bacterial Strain Linked to Meningitis, Pneumonia

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Vaccine Cut Bacterial Strain Linked to Meningitis, PneumoniaCategory: Health NewsCreated: 11/11/2011 6:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 11/14/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

More Teens Getting Vaccines Against HPV, Other Infections: CDC

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: More Teens Getting Vaccines Against HPV, Other Infections: CDCCategory: Health NewsCreated: 11/14/2011 2:06:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 11/14/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Vaccine Cut Flu Strain Linked to Meningitis, Pneumonia

MedicineNet Hepatitis C General — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Vaccine Cut Flu Strain Linked to Meningitis, PneumoniaCategory: Health NewsCreated: 11/11/2011 10:06:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 11/11/2011 (Source: MedicineNet Hepatitis C General)

Interferons as Therapeutic Agents for Infectious Diseases

Infectious Diseases Clinics of North America — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:09:33 +0100

This article explains the rationale for development of interferons as therapeutic agents, and describes commercial products available today. It also provides a summary of studies that have been performed with interferons for use as exogenous biological response modifiers in viral infections. Overall, the best data exist for treatment of viral hepatitis B and C, for which interferons are a cornerstone of therapy. Although infections with human papillomavirus and common cold viruses sometimes respond favorably to interferons, their outcomes are far from ideal. Finally, the role of interferons as vaccine adjuvants is still being explored but could be promising. (Source: Infectious Diseases Clinics of North America)

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Sleep and immune function.

Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of Physiology — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Besedovsky L, Lange T, Born J Abstract Sleep and the circadian system exert a strong regulatory influence on immune functions. Investigations of the normal sleep-wake cycle showed that immune parameters like numbers of undifferentiated naïve T cells and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines exhibit peaks during early nocturnal sleep whereas circulating numbers of immune cells with immediate effector functions, like cytotoxic natural killer cells, as well as anti-inflammatory cytokine activity peak during daytime wakefulness. Although it is difficult to entirely dissect the influence of sleep from that of the circadian rhythm, comparisons of the effects of nocturnal sleep with those of 24-h periods of wakefulness suggest that sleep facilitates the extravasation of T...

Use of hepatitis B vaccine in pregnancy

NeLM - Drugs in Pregnancy — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Source: UK Teratology Information Service Area: Evidence > Drugs in Pregnancy SUMMARY: Hepatitis B vaccine is an inactivated vaccine which is available in the United Kingdom as a single vaccine or in combination with hepatitis A vaccine. Hepatitis B is a blood borne virus that is transmitted by parenteral exposure to infected blood or body fluids, including by sexual contact. Perinatal transmission of the hepatitis B virus from mother to infant may result in chronic infection of the newborn. There is limited information available to assess the potential fetotoxic effects following exposure to hepatitis B vaccine in human pregnancy, however there is no conclusive evidence that inactivated vaccines as a group are associated with an increased incidence of adverse fetal e...

Chicken Pox Parties Is "Middle Ages Vigilante Vaccination"

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0100

If you think buying a lollipop contaminated with saliva from senders whose children are infected will protect your kids from chicken pox, think again - because it probably won't. More likely, you will be exposing them to more serious infections, such as hepatitis. A US attorney in Nashville, Jerry Martin, said not only is it unsafe to mail such contagious items, it is also illegal. After being interviewed by WSMV-TV regarding virus exchanges in Tennessee via online social media websites, Martin decided to speak out... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Effect of route of delivery on heterologous protection against HCV induced by an adenovirus vector carrying HCV structural genes

Virology Journal — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our data suggest that a rAd5-CE1E2-based HCV vaccine would be capable of eliciting an effective immune response and cross-protection. These findings have important implications for the development of T cell-based HCV vaccine candidates. (Source: Virology Journal)

Gilead and GlobeImmune join forces to develop hepatitis B vaccine

Drug Development Technology — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 03:24:37 +0100

Gilead Sciences and GlobeImmune have entered into an exclusive worldwide licence and collaboration agreement to develop and market therapeutic vaccine products to treat chronic hepatitis B in conjunction with Viread (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) an…Post to:Delicious Digg reddit Facebook StumbleUpon (Source: Drug Development Technology)

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DTaP(5)-IPV-Hib Vaccine (Pediacel®).

Paediatric Drugs — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:01:28 +0100

Authors: Frampton JE Abstract Pediacel® is a fully liquid formulation of a diphtheria, tetanus, five-component acellular pertussis, inactivated poliovirus and Haemophilus influenzae type b combination vaccine, which does not require reconstitution. Both vial and prefilled syringe presentations of Pediacel® are available for use in the EU. In active-controlled clinical trials, primary and/or booster vaccination with Pediacel® was highly immunogenic, eliciting strong and sustained serologic responses against all its component toxoids/antigens when administered according to a variety of different schedules. In particular, pivotal studies showed that Pediacel® was generally similar and/or noninferior to reconstituted pentavalent and hexavalent diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular per...

Management of Hepatitis B Virus Coinfection: HIV, Hepatitis C Virus, Hepatitis D Virus

Current Hepatitis Reports — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 05:55:20 +0100

This article discusses and reviews the natural history, epidemiology, and management of HBV patients coinfected with HIV, HCV, or HDV. It includes an updated summary of the outcomes with liver transplantation and post transplant recurrence in the coinfected population with HBV. It also discusses the role of occult HBV in HIV and HCV coinfection respectively. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Hepatitis B: Epidemiology, Natural History, Treatment, and Transplantation (Thomas Berg and Steven-Huy Han, Section Editors)Pages 262-268DOI 10.1007/s11901-011-0115-1Authors Kalyan Ram Bhamidimarri, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, The Mount Sinai Medical Center, One Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USAJames Park, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine,...

Antibody persistence and immune memory in adults, 15 years after a three‐dose schedule of a combined hepatitis A and B vaccine

Journal of Medical Virology — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

This study confirms the long‐term immunogenicity of the three‐dose regimen of the combined hepatitis A and B vaccine, as eliciting long‐term persistence of antibodies and immune memory against hepatitis A and B for up to at least 15 years after a primary vaccination. J. Med. Virol. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

Association between polymorphisms of the cytokine and cytokine receptor genes and immune response to hepatitis B vaccination in a Chinese Han population

Journal of Medical Virology — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

AbstractThe immune response to hepatitis B vaccination varies among individuals. It has been reported that polymorphisms in cytokine and cytokine receptor genes are associated with these individual differences. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association between polymorphisms of the Th1/Th2 cytokine and cytokine receptor genes and the response to hepatitis B vaccination in a Chinese Han population. A total of 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms distributed in 6 genes (TNFRSF1A, IL12A, IL12B, IFNG, IL4, and IL10) were genotyped in 214 high‐responders [hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs) ≥1,000 mIU/ml] and 107 low‐responders (anti‐HBs: 10–99 mIU/ml). The minor CTCTAA allele of rs17860508 in the IL12B gene was associated with a low response to hepatitis ...

Hepatitis C virus infection among transmission-prone medical personnel

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:49:36 +0100

Abstract Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected physicians have been reported to infect some of their patients during exposure-prone procedures (EPPs). There is no European consensus on the policy for the prevention of this transmission. To help define an appropriate preventive policy, we determined the prevalence of HCV infection among EPP-performing medical personnel in the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The prevalence of HCV infection was studied among 729 EPP-performing health care workers. Serum samples, stored after post-hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination testing in the years 2000–2009, were tested for HCV antibodies. Repeat reactive samples were confirmed by immunoblot assay and the detection of HCV RNA. The average age of the 729 health care wo...

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Hep B Vaccine Advised for Adults With Diabetes

Clinical Endocrinology News — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

ATLANTA – Hepatitis B vaccination should be routinely given to previously unvaccinated adults with diabetes who are younger than age 60 years, according to recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. (Source: Clinical Endocrinology News)

Immunogenicity of hepatitis B vaccine among hemodialysis patients: Effect of revaccination of non-responders and duration of protection.

Vaccine — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: Revaccinating patients undergoing hemodialysis who do not respond to a primary vaccine series substantially increases the pool of protected patients. The threshold for defining hepatitis B vaccine-induced immunity should be revisited in this patient population to maximize the duration of protection. PMID: 22044739 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Vaccine)

Use of HIV PEPSE and Hepatitis B vaccine following the introduction of a SARC

Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 11:14:23 +0100

Abstract: Adherence to local guidelines on the use of HIV post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and hepatitis B vaccine following sexual assault was evaluated by means of audit. Forensic Medical Examiners (FMEs) were asked to complete an audit form after conducting sexual offence examinations at Gloucester Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).Only one HIV PEP pack was prescribed during the six and a half month audit period. Examination of the SARC records of the allegations made by complainants did not reveal any high-risk cases involving a failure to offer HIV post-exposure prophylaxis following sexual exposure (PEPSE).The majority of the examinations performed at the SARC were carried out by trained sexual offence examiners (SOEs). The audit indicates that these SOEs were considering the appr...

NaturalNews issues consumer alert about Adya Clarity, imported as battery acid and sold for internal consumption

NaturalNews.com — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) A product called Adya Clarity has been sweeping across the natural health community in the last year or so. It has been sold with recommendations for internal use -- taking "super shots" -- and often accompanied by wide-ranging claims that it treats cancer, kidney stones, hormone regulation, arthritis, and that it removes radiation and heavy metals.Because so many readers have been asking me about Adya Clarity, I decided to look further into the issue. I was aided by some timely tips that came my way which I began to check out as an investigative journalist. What I found -- much of which is detailed in this report -- absolutely shocked me. But what do YOU think? Read my report and decide for yourself.Unsubstantiated health claims The claims that Adya Clarity is good for treat...

Recent publications in medical microbiology and immunology: a retrospective

Medical Microbiology and Immunology — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:49:41 +0100

Abstract A look back is done to some clinical and basic research activities recently published in medical microbiology and immunology. The review covers clinical experiences and in vitro experiments to understand the emergency, pathogenicity, epidemic spread, and vaccine-based prevention of avian and swine-origin flu. Some new developments and concepts in diagnosis, (molecular) epidemiology, and therapy of AIDS, viral hepatitis C, and herpesvirus-associated diseases are outlined. Regulation of immune system has been discussed in a special issue 2010 including some aspects of CNS affections (measles). Mycobacterial infection and its prevention by modern recombinant vaccines have reached new interest, as well as new concepts of vaccination and prophylaxis against several oth...

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Observational study: Obesity linked to impaired immune response to influenza vaccination

NeLM - News — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Source: International Journal of Obesity Area: News During the recent pandemic of influenza A/H1N1/2009 (pH1N1), obesity was recognised for the first time as an independent risk factor for increased influenza morbidity and mortality. Obesity is associated with decreased antibody response to hepatitis B vaccine and to tetanus toxoid but no studies have examined how it may affect the response to influenza vaccination in humans. Therefore researchers initiated a prospective observational study of the effect of body mass index (BMI) on humoral and cell mediated immune responses to influenza vaccination in humans and in this paper they report data from the first 2 years of the study. The study was carried out at the University of North Carolina Family Medicine Centre and enrolled pa...

HIV Risk, Prevention, and Testing Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men --- National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System, 21 U.S. Cities, United States, 2008.

MMWR Surveill Summ — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

This report summarizes data gathered from 8,175 MSM during the second data collection cycle of NHBS. In addition to having at least one male sex partner, 14% of participants had at least one female sex partner during the past 12 months. Unprotected anal intercourse with a male partner was reported by 54% of the participants; 37% reported having unprotected anal sex with a main male partner (someone with whom the participant had sex and to whom he felt most committed, such as a boyfriend, spouse, significant other, or life partner), and 25% reported having unprotected anal sex with a casual male partner (someone with whom the participant had sex but with whom he did not feel committed, did not know very well, or had sex with in exchange for something such as money or drugs). Noninjection dr...

New neutralizing antibody epitopes in hepatitis C virus envelope glycoproteins are revealed by dissecting peptide recognition profiles.

Vaccine — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kachko A, Kochneva G, Sivolobova G, Grazhdantseva A, Lupan T, Zubkova I, Wells F, Merchlinsky M, Williams O, Watanabe H, Ivanova A, Shvalov A, Loktev V, Netesov S, Major ME Abstract One of the greatest challenges to HCV vaccine development is the induction of effective immune responses using recombinant proteins or vectors. In order to better understand which vaccine-induced antibodies contribute to neutralization of HCV the quality of polyclonal anti-E1E2 antibody responses in immunized mice and chimpanzees was assessed at the level of epitope recognition using peptide scanning and neutralization of chimeric 1a/2a, 1b/2a and 2a HCVcc after blocking or affinity elution of specific antibodies. Mice and chimpanzees were immunized with genotype 1a (H77) HCV gpE1E2; all sample...

MMWR: HIV Risk, Prevention, and Testing Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men --- National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System, 21 U.S. Cities, United States, 2008

CDC HIV/AIDS Prevention — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 18:00:00 +0100

MSM in the United States continue to engage in sexual and drug-use behaviors that increase the risk for HIV infection. Although many MSM had been tested for HIV infection, many had not received hepatitis vaccinations or syphilis testing, and only a small proportion had recently participated in a behavioral intervention. (Source: CDC HIV/AIDS Prevention)