SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS - Storming Media

Medical Surveillance Monthly Report. Volume 16, Number 7, July 2009

Jul-2009

21 pages

Authors: ARMED FORCES HEALTH SURVEILLANCE CENTER SILVER SPRING MD

The full text of this report is available for sale.

Lyme disease is a zoonotic tick-borne disease that is caused by infection with a spirochetal bacterium of the genus Borrelia. It has a worldwide distribution and is endemic in many temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. In the United States, it is hyperendemic along the mid- and northeastern Atlantic seaboard and in nonurban areas of Wisconsin. Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks that feed on both humans and animal hosts ...

Viper Plague Project

Jul-2009

50 pages

Authors: Carrie Andrews; Isaac Rosas; Yvette Gonzalez; Johnathan L de los Kiel; Amy Santos; Jill E Parker; CONCEPTUAL MINDWORKS INC SAN ANTONIO TX

The term Viper Plague was coined for a lethal disease state seen in snakes belonging to a private herpetological collection infested with ticks (Kiel et al, 2006). Viper Plague presented signs and symptoms in the reptiles that were characteristically nearly identical to the Erhlichia disease Heartwater, also known as Cowdriosis, a highly lethal livestock disease (a USDA non-overlap Select Agent pathogen, exotic). It was revealed that some of the snakes ...

May-2009

5 pages

Authors: Karen Schwab; JACKSON (HENRY M) FOUNDATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF MILITARY MEDICINE ROCKVILLE MD

The overarching aim of this study is to describe the epidemiology, natural history, and prognostic predictors of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in a well- defined cohort of recently- deployed soldiers at Fort Carson and Fort Bragg. This study will augment the ongoing surveillance and clinical efforts at these locations by expanding the post- deployment assessment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and TBI- related exposures; identifying pre-existing and deployment- related ...

Structural MRI and Cognitive Correlates in Pest-control Personnel from Gulf War I

Apr-2009

35 pages

Authors: Kimberly Sullivan; BOSTON UNIV MA

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors including organophosphate (OP) pesticides are known to produce chronic neurological symptoms at sufficient exposure levels. Our previous study of cognitive functioning in pest-control personnel from the GWI, found that military pesticide applicators classified as higher pesticide-exposed reported significantly more health symptoms and performed less well on objective cognitive testing than the lower-exposed veterans. It is the goal of this follow-up neuroimaging study to identify the relationships between ...

Physiologic and Endocrine Correlates of Overweightness in African Americans and Caucasians

27-Mar-2009

94 pages

Authors: Merrily Poth; Tracey Sbrocco; Patricia A Deuster; UNIFORMED SERVICES UNIV OF THE HEALTH SCIENCES BETHESDA MD DEPT OF MILITARY AND EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Obesity has reached epidemic levels and the incidence continues to rise. The current study was seeking to examine the hypothesis that obesity may reflect dysfunctioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in response to stressors. African American persons are at greatest risk, but reasons for this difference are unknown. We studied 126 healthy men and women of Caucasian (CA) and African American (AA) ethnicity and examined their responses to physiologic stressors: ...

Military Medical Research in Support of National Instruments of Power

26-Mar-2009

32 pages

Authors: Daniel H Jimenez; ARMY WAR COLL CARLISLE BARRACKS PA

At the dawn of this new millennium, there are few threats more menacing to mankind than the global Human ImmunoDeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) pandemic. The current national security strategy and national military strategy acknowledge the threat posed by infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS and the potential adverse effects pandemic diseases have to vital U.S. interests. This strategy research project examines how military medical research serves as a soft power ...

Simulator Sickness in the Flight School XXI TH-67 Flight Motion Simulators

Feb-2009

19 pages

Authors: Catherine M Webb; David M Johnson; Amanda M Kelley; Julie M Bass; Christopher R Martin; Robert M Wildzunas; ARMY AEROMEDICAL RESEARCH LAB FORT RUCKER AL

In 2005, the U.S. Army debuted the TH-67 Creek flight motion simulator (FMS). Comments from the first class to use the devices indicated an unusually high number of instructor pilots (IPs) and student pilots (SPs) experienced severe simulator sickness (SS). To investigate the potential problem, a pre-study was conducted using the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) to collect data from three, 5-day class cycles from 73 IPs and 129 SPs. Based ...

Biomarkers for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Active Duty Military (BALSAM)

Feb-2009

56 pages

Authors: David Millhorn; John Schlager; CINCINNATI UNIV OH

To compare serum samples from individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to serum samples from matched individuals who did not develop ALS. In this study we aim to identify candidate serum biomarkers that are unique for ALS and identify a subset of diagnostic serum biomarkers for early detection of ALS prior to the appearance of overt symptoms. Scope: The significance of a positive identification of protein biomarkers for ALS ...

Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Outbreak at the U.S. Air Force Academy: Epidemiology and Viral Shedding Duration (American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Volume 20, Number 10, 2009)

Jan-2009

7 pages

Authors: Catherine T Witkop; Mark R Duffy; Elizabeth A Macias; Thomas F Gibbons; James D Escobar; Kristen N Burwell; Kenneth K Knight; AIR FORCE ACADEMY COLORADO SPRINGS CO

The U.S. Air Force Academy is an undergraduate institution that educates and trains cadets for military service. Following the arrival of 1376 basic cadet trainees in June 2009, surveillance revealed an increase in cadets presenting with respiratory illness. Specimens from ill cadets tested positive for novel influenza A (H1N1 [nH1N1])-specific ribonucleic acid (RNA) by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. The outbreak epidemiology, control measures, and nH1N1 shedding duration are described. ...

Hybrid War: Is the U.S. Army Ready for the Face of 21st Century Warfare

12-Dec-2008

69 pages

Authors: Jordan; Larry R Jr; ARMY COMMAND AND GENERAL STAFF COLL FORT LEAVENWORTH KS

In 2006, Hezbollah employed a new type of warfare that it had been perfecting for 24 years. Systematically, Hezbollah adapted its tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting its operations. This included continued emphasis on Information Operations, counter intelligence operations aimed at eliminating and flipping Israeli operatives in Southern Lebanon, and the infiltration of their own agents into Northern Israel. They moved toward conducting not only coordinated large unit operations but ...

Randomized Trial of an Environmental Medicine Approach to Gulf War Veterans' Illness

Oct-2008

9 pages

Authors: William J Meggs; EAST CAROLINA UNIV GREENVILLE NC

The purpose of the research is to study the efficacy of an environmental medicine approach to Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses. The hypothesis to be tested is these illnesses result from a maladaptation to the chemical environment to which we are all exposed, as described by Selye and Randolph. The approach is to house ill veterans in an environmental control unit, to start them on a rotation diet after a brief ...

Assessment of GPR30, a Seven Transmembrane-Spanning Estrogen Receptor, as an Oncogene

Oct-2008

9 pages

Authors: Edward J Filardo; RHODE ISLAND HOSPITAL PROVIDENCE

Expression of the seven transmembrane-spanning receptor (7TMR), GPR30, in primary human breast tumors is positively associated with several tumor progression variables including extra mammary metastases (Filardo et al, 2006). Altered expression of 7TMRs is linked with a spectrum of disease phenotypes, including cancer, raising the possibility that GPR30 may function as an oncogene. To test this hypothesis, two lines of transgenic mice (T6-1A and T6-2E) were engineered with stably integrated ...

Test Operations Procedure (TOP) 1-1-003 Cold Regions Personnel Effects

15-Sep-2008

13 pages

Authors: ARMY COLD REGIONS TEST CENTER FORT GREELY AK

This Test Operations Procedure (TOP) provides background information on physiological and psychological effects of cold on the human. It is an overview TOP and is organized to provide information on some of the problems associated with conducting operations, training, testing, and living in a cold environment. Rather than test procedures, it provides needed knowledge to safely conduct tests in the cold environment.

Hantavirus Prevention: Cleanup of Rodent Contamination

01-Sep-2008

10 pages

Authors: ARMY CENTER FOR HEALTH PROMOTION AND PREVENTIVE MEDICINE ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND MD

Hantaviruses in the Americas may cause human disease involving the lungs, hence the name hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Since May 1993, a total of 416 HPS cases (as of 1 February 2006) have been confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in residents of 32 states, with 39 of these cases identified retrospectively with onset of illness prior to May 1993. One hundred and six (38%) of ...

Novel Pharmacological Approaches for Treatment of Neurotoxicity Induced by Chronic Exposure to Depleted Uranium

Sep-2008

7 pages

Authors: Stephen M Lasley; ILLINOIS UNIV AT CHICAGO

The chemical properties and high density of depleted uranium (DU) render the metal well suited for military purposes, but knowledge of DU neurotoxicity and its treatment is lacking. This project is designed to test the hypothesis that long-term administration of a free radical trapping agent and/or an NMDA receptor antagonist will reduce neurotoxicity resulting from chronic exposure to DU. This hypothesis is consistent with previous observations ensuing from chronic intramuscular ...

Human Mammary Epithelial Cell Transformation by Rho GTPase through a Novel Mechanism

Aug-2008

46 pages

Authors: Vimia Band; NEBRASKA UNIV MEDICAL CENTER OMAHA

Rho family small GTPases serve as molecular switches in the regulation of diverse cellular functions. Importantly, Rho overexpression is frequently seen in many carcinomas. However, published studies have almost invariably utilized immortal or tumorigenic cell lines to study Rho GTPase functions and there are no studies on the potential of Rho small GTPase to overcome senescence checkpoints and induce preneoplastic transformation of human epithelial cells (hMECs). We demonstrate here, that ...

Thermal Stability and Heat Transfer Characteristics of RP-2 (Preprint)

30-Jun-2008

11 pages

Authors: Matthew Billingsley; AIR FORCE RESEARCH LAB EDWARDS AFB CA PROPULSION DIRECTORATE

In an effort to enable reusable, high-performing liquid rocket engines, a comprehensive experimental and numerical investigation of the thermal performance (thermal stability and heat transfer characteristics) of RP-2 is underway at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Edwards AFB, CA. In the current work, the High Heat Flux Facility (HHFF) was used to provide initial RP-2 thermal performance information under conditions simulative of those encountered in the cooling channels of ...

PTSD Type Symptoms and CGSC class 08-01, a Study of Field Grade Officers and Implications for the Future

13 JUN 2008

93 pages

Authors: Jr Dixon Richard L.; ARMY COMMAND AND GENERAL STAFF COLL FORT LEAVENWORTH KS

With the emergence of the Global War on Terror (GWOT), the mental illness of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is increasingly identified in returning veterans. A 2006 mental health study released by the Pentagon found 11% of returning OEF veterans and 19% of returning OIF veterans have mental health issues. Of the veterans sampled, 5% were Army Officers and 2% were Marine Officers. Thus, the primary research question was: Are ...

Challenges of Self-Reported Medical Conditions and Electronic Medical Records Among Members of a Large Military Cohort

05-Jun-2008

12 pages

Authors: Besa Smith; Tyler C Smith; Margaret A Ryan; Tomoko I Hooper; Edward J Boyko; Laura K Chu; Paul J Amoroso; Gary D Gackstettter; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA

Self-reported medical history data are frequently used in epidemiological studies. Self-reported diagnoses may differ from medical record diagnoses due to poor patient-clinician communication, self-diagnosis in the absence of a satisfactory explanation for symptoms, or the health literacy of the patient. The US Department of Defense military health system offers a unique opportunity to evaluate electronic medical records with near complete ascertainment while on active duty. This study compared 38 self-reported ...

Biomarkers of Risk for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

01-May-2008

21 pages

Authors: Audrey R Tyrka; BUTLER HOSPITAL PROVIDENCE RI

The objective of this proposal is to study genetic and neuroendocrine biomarkers of risk in a carefully assessed population of military personnel who have recently returned from war zones. The target sample includes 300 men and women who have recently returned from hazardous deployment and are undergoing a comprehensive assessment of symptoms and stressors in a related 12-month longitudinal study. To date, we have enrolled 125 subjects. Samples of saliva ...

USAF Flight Surgeon Survey: Aircrew Mental Health Referrals and Satisfaction with Local Mental Health Providers Response

May-2008

24 pages

Authors: Timothy Paulding; Wayne Chappelle; John Patterson; AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND BROOKS AFB TX

This study surveyed USAF flight surgeons world-wide regarding their experiences with aircrew needing mental health services. Participants were asked to review their caseload of active duty aircrew members over the past 12 months to answer survey items assessing: a. common psychological problems among aircrew leading to mental health referrals, b. referral rates and frequency of mental health referrals, c. modality of referrals, d. satisfaction with availability, timeliness and quality of ...

Stress and Psychological Support in Modern Military Operations (Stress et aide psychologique dans les operations militaires modernes)

01-Apr-2008

Authors: NATO RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY ORGANIZATION NEUILLY-SUR-SEINE (FRANCE)

The full text of this report is not available and therefore is not for sale. This information is provided for reference purposes only.

The Impact of Prostate Cancer Treatment-Related Symptoms on Low-Income Latino Couples

MAR 2008

271 pages

Authors: Sally L. Maliski; CALIFORNIA UNIV LOS ANGELES

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer among men in the United States, and Latinos are the most rapidly growing minority in the United States. Even when prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated early, there are a number of side effects that can have an impact on men's quality of life including erectile dysfunction, incontinence, and a diminished desire for sexual relations. Because of these treatment side effects, ...

A Placebo-Controlled Trial of Prazosin vs. Paroxetine in Combat Stress-Induced PTSD Nightmares and Sleep Disturbance

Mar-2008

5 pages

Authors: Murray Raskind; Elaine Peskind; Miles McFall; Kris Peterson; Michael Doyle; Charles Engel; SEATTLE INST FOR BIOMEDICAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH SEATTLE WA

The primary goal of this proposal is to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist prazosin compared to placebo for combat trauma-related nightmares, sleep disturbance and overall function in recently combat-exposed returnees from OIF and OEF. A secondary goal is to evaluate the effects of the SSRI paroxetine on behavioral symptoms and overall function in this population. Specific hypotheses (described below) will be tested in a three ...

Biomarkers for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Active Duty Military (BALSAM)

22-Feb-2008

55 pages

Authors: David E Milhorn; CINCINNATI UNIV OH

Purpose: To compare serum samples from individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to serum samples from matched individuals who did not develop ALS. In this study we aim to identify candidate serum biomarkers that are unique for ALS and identify a subset of diagnostic serum biomarkers for early detection of ALS prior to the appearance of overt symptoms. Scope: The significance of a positive identification of protein biomarkers for ...

Incidence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Burned Service Members: Preliminary Report

FEB 2008

8 pages

Authors: Kathryn M. Gaylord; Douglas B. Cooper; Janyna M. Mercado; Jan E. Kennedy; Linda H. Yoder; John B. Holcomb; ARMY INST OF SURGICAL RESEARCH FORT SAM HOUSTON TX

Although sustaining physical injury in theater increases service members' risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), exposure to explosive munitions may increase the risk of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The authors hypothesized a higher incidence of PTSD and mTBI in service members who sustained both burn and explosion injuries than in nonexplosion-exposed service members. A retrospective review of PTSD and mTBI assessments was completed on burned service members between September ...

New Onset and Persistent Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Self Reported after Deployment and Combat Exposures: Prospective Population Based US Military Cohort Study

15-Jan-2008

14 pages

Authors: Tyler C Smith; Deborah L Wingard; Margaret A Ryan; Donald J Slymen; Jamesv F Sallis; D Kirtz-Silverstein; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA

Objective: To describe new onset and persistence of PTSD symptoms in a large population-based military cohort, many of whom deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). Design, Setting, and Participants: Millennium Cohort Study baseline enrollment data (July 2001 to June 2003) were obtained before the current GWOT. Follow-up (June 2004 to January 2006) data on health outcomes were collected from over 50 000 participants. Main Outcome Measures: ...

Nosocomial Infection of Serratia marcescens May Induce a Protective Effect of Monkeys Exposed to Bacillus anthracis

01-Jan-2008

4 pages

Authors: Elizabeth K Leffel; Nancy A Twenhafel; Chris A Whitehouse; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD

This study was originally designed to collect data on the natural history of inhalational anthrax in a new nonhuman primate model. An uncontrollable event created a new experimental condition which allowed us to retrospectively evaluate the power of the innate immune system to protect from an aerosol exposure of B. anthracis. Five African green monkeys (AGMs) had intravenous catheters implanted. One catheter was accidentally pulled out, leaving four AGMs with ...

Mixing of M Segment DNA Vaccines to Hantaan Virus and Puumala Virus Reduces Their Immunogenicity in Hamsters

01-Jan-2008

6 pages

Authors: Connie Schmaljohn; Catherine Badger; Jay W Hooper; Kristin W Spik; Iacob Mathiessen; Torunn Tjelle; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD

To determine if DNA vaccines for two hantaviruses causing hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, Hantaan virus and Puumala virus, are immunogenic when given in combination, we delivered them to hamsters separately or as mixtures by gene gun or by electroporation. Both vaccines elicited neutralizing antibodies when given alone but when they were delivered as a mixture, antibodies to only one of the two hantaviruses could be detected. In contrast, if ...

Evaluation of Orally Delivered ST-246 as Postexposure Prophylactic and Antiviral Therapeutic in an Aerosolized Rabbitpox Rabbit Model

01-Jan-2008

8 pages

Authors: Aysegul Nalca; Josh M Hatkin; Nicole L Garza; Donald K Nichols; Sarah W Norris; Dennis E Hruby; Robert Jordan; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD

Orthopoxviruses, such as variola and monkeypox viruses, can cause severe disease in humans when delivered by the aerosol route, and thus represent significant threats to both military and civilian populations. Currently, there are no antiviral therapies approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat smallpox or monkeypox infection. In this study, we showed that administration of the antiviral compound ST-246 to rabbits by oral gavage, once daily ...

Mechanisms in Chronic Multisympton Illnesses

01-Oct-2007

212 pages

Authors: Daniel J Clauw; MICHIGAN UNIV ANN ARBOR

The overall objective of this cooperative agreement are to conduct research in pursuit of identifying the physiologic mechanisms responsible for the symptoms of pain, fatigue, and memory difficulties commonly seen in patients with Chronic Multisymptom Illnesses (CMI) (i.e., fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, Gulf War Illnesses, etc.); to identify the risk factors for developing these syndromes as well as programs aimed at both preventing theses illnesses and treating established cases. These ...

A Rat Model of Sytemic Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer to Evaluate and Treat Chemobrain

SEP 2007

43 pages

Authors: Kevin C. Little; AUCKLAND UNIV (NEW ZEALAND)

The primary objective of this project was to develop an animal model to measure possible cognitive deficits resulting from chemotherapy. We have established a rat model of multidose human-equivalent combination chemotherapy using cyclophosphamide methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil (CMF) that recapitulates the physical symptoms of chemotherapy treatment. We investigated the effects of this regimen on learning and memory as well as on the production and survival of new neurons in the hippocampus ...

Prevalence and Outcomes of Restless Legs Syndrome among Veterans

SEP 2007

123 pages

Authors: Claire C. Bourguet; NORTHEASTERN OHIO UNIVERSITIES COLLEGE OF MEDICINE ROOTSTOWN

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant, abnormal feelings in the legs and occasionally arms which occur at rest and when initiating sleep. The sufferer experiences an uncontrollable urge to move in order to relieve symptoms. RLS interferes with the ability to fall asleep or to maintain sleep. The resulting sleep deprivation can interfere with family life, social activities, and job performance. RLS is a commonly ...

Physical Fitness Influences Stress Reactions to Extreme Military Training

09-Aug-2007

8 pages

Authors: Jared P Reis; Marcus K Taylor; Lilianne R Mujica-Parodi; Eric G Potterat; Amanda E Markham; Sean P Drummond; Ganieleah A Padilla; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA

Physical fitness and physical conditioning have long been valued by the military for their roles in enhancing mission-specific performance and reducing risk of injury in the warfighter. It is not known whether physical fitness plays a causal role in attenuating acute military stress reactions or the evolution of post-traumatic stress disorder. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether physical fitness influences the impact of stressful events during ...

Severe Encephalitis in Cynomolgus Macaques Exposed to Aerosolized Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus

01 AUG 2007

11 pages

Authors: Douglas S. Reed; Matthew G. Lackemeyer; Nicole L. Garza; Sarah Norris; Scott Gamble; Lawrence J. Sullivan; Cathleen M. Lind; Jo L. Raymond; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD AEROBIOLOGY DIV

Cynomolgus macaques exposed to an aerosol containing a virulent strain of eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus developed neurological signs indicating encephalitis that corresponded with the onset of fever and an elevated heart rate. Viremia was either transient or undetectable even in animals that succumbed to the illness. The onset of illness was dose dependent, but once a febrile response was observed, macaques were moribund within 36 h. Simultaneously, a prominent ...

The Effects of Diesel Exhaust and Stress on the Acute Phase Response and in the Chemically Intolerant

AUG 2007

10 pages

Authors: Nancy Fideler; UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND DENTISTRY OF NEW JERSEY NEWARK

Exposures to diesel exhaust (DE) and other petrochemical combustion products were the exposures reported by the greatest percentage of all Gulf War veterans (GWV). Along with diesel exhaust and other chemical exposures, psychological stress has been implicated in the onset of unexplained symptoms such as chemical sensitivity among GWV. The purpose of the proposed study is to test a model for chemical sensitivity in GWV, in which simultaneous acute exposures ...

Effects of Repeated Sublethal VX Exposure on Operant Time Estimation in Rats

Aug-2007

25 pages

Authors: David W Kahler; Lucille A Lumley; Todd M Myers; John C LaMont; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF CHEMICAL DEFENSE ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND MD

Thirty-two rats were trained to stability under a differential-reinforcement-of-low rates 20-s schedule with a sucrose pellet as the reinforcer and a lever press as the operant response. The exposure groups were saline, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5LD50 VX delivered subcutaneously. Injections were given for three consecutive days and neurobehavioral evaluations were conducted throughout the week of exposure and for two weeks following. Toxic signs scores were significantly higher in the 0.4 ...

Jet Fuel Exposure and Neurological Health in Military Personnel

JUL 2007

13 pages

Authors: Susan P. Proctor; HENRY M JACKSON FOUNDATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF MILITARY MEDICINE ROCKVILLE MD

Jet propulsion fuel 8 (JP-8) has recently been recognized by the Department of Defense as the single largest chemical exposure for its personnel. The primary aim of the project is to conduct an epidemiological field study to examine the relationship between JP-8 fuel exposure and adverse neurological health in military personnel. The research objectives are as follows: (1) determination of the individual service member's level of exposure to JP-8 components ...

The "Worried Well" Response to CBRN Events: Analysis and Solutions

JUN 2007

64 pages

Authors: Fred P. Stone; AIR UNIV MAXWELL AFB AL COUNTER PROLIFERATION CENTER

Chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear (CBRN) weapons in the hands of a terrorist or a rogue state is one of the greatest threats to the security of the United States. These weapons of mass destruction (WMD) can cause catastrophic loss of life and innumerable injuries and can challenge the U.S. health care system beyond its capacity to provide treatment. Most hospitals do not have the beds, equipment, staff, or facilities ...

Temporal Analysis of Andes Virus and Sin Nombre Virus Infections of Syrian Hamsters

MAY 2007

16 pages

Authors: Victoria Wahl-Jensen; Jennifer Chapman; Ludmila Asher; Robert Fisher; Michael Zimmerman; Tom Larsen; Jay W. Hoope; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD VIROLOGY DIV

Andes virus (ANDV) and Sin Nombre virus (SNV) are rodent-borne hantaviruses that cause a highly lethal hemorrhagic fever in humans known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and the pathogenesis is not understood. Syrian hamstersinfected with ANDV but not SNV, develop a highly lethal disease that closely resembles HPS in humans.Here, we performed a temporal pathogenesis study comparing ANDV and SNV infections in hamsters. SNV was not pathogenic and viremia was ...

Feasibility Investigation into Strengthening of Timber Bridge Stringers

MAY 2007

142 pages

Authors: Anthony J. Lamanna; Arda Akbiyik; James C. Ray; Gerardo I. Velazquez; ENGINEER RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER VICKSBURG MS GEOTECHNICAL AND STRUCTURES LAB

The majority of timber bridges in the United States are nearing the end of their service life. They exhibit several types of damage, which occurs in their structural elements such as timber stringers. The most commonly encountered damage type in timber stringers in bridge structures is horizontal splits. Researchers investigated the feasibility of repairing timber stringers that showed signs of horizontal splitting along the length of the member. Timber stringer ...

First-Generation H1 Antihistamines Found in Pilot Fatalities of Civil Aviation Accidents, 1990-2005

MAY 2007

17 pages

Authors: Ahmet Sen; Ahmet Akin; Krisit J. Craft; Dennis V. Canfield; Arvind K. Chaturvedi; GULHANE MILITARY MEDICAL ACADEMY ESKISEHIR (TURKEY) DEPT OF AEROSPACE MEDICINE

First-generation H1-receptor antagonists are popularly used for alleviating allergy and cold symptoms, but these antihistaminics cause drowsiness and sedation. Such side effects could impair performance and, thus, could be the cause or a factor in accidents. Therefore, the prevalence of these antagonists was evaluated in aviation accident pilot fatalities. During civil aircraft accident investigations, postmortem samples from pilots involved in fatal aviation accidents are submitted to the Civil Aerospace Medical ...

U.S.-China Strategic Dialogue, Phase II

12 APR 2007

37 pages

Authors: Christopher P. Twomey; Kali Shelor; NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL MONTEREY CA DEPT OF NATIONAL SECURITY AFFAIRS

The U.S.-China Strategic Dialogue brought together Chinese and U.S. strategic experts in their personal capacities to discuss to the role of nuclear weapons in Sino-American relations with the aim of minimizing mutual misunderstanding and identifying practical steps for bilateral cooperation. Relatively open discussions on core nuclear issues were held, positive signs on a number of regional topics were visible, and promising avenues for future discussions emerged. The goal of this ...

A Multidisciplinary Evaluation of Traumatic Brain Injury: Early Predictors of Outcome

APR 2007

147 pages

Authors: Patricia C. Dischinger; MARYLAND UNIV BALTIMORE

This is the final report of a follow-up study of 180 subjects with Mild TBI who were treated at a Level I Trauma Center. The goal of the study was: 1) to describe the natural history of Mild TBI and 2) to identify factors that best predict long term sequelae. Most symptoms increased within 3-10 day post-injury decreased again by 3 months. Although physical symptoms had the highest prevalence, most ...

Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Brain Imaging in US Army Veterans of the 1991 Gulf War Potentially Exposed to Sarin and Cyclosarin

24 MAR 2007

Authors: Kristin J. Heaton; Carole L. Palumbo; Susan P. Proctor; Ronald J. Killiany; Deborah A. Yurgelun-Todd; Roberta F. White; ARMY RESEARCH INST OF ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE NATICK MA MILITARY PERFORMANCE DIV

In March 1991, a munitions storage complex at Khamisiyah, Iraq was destroyed, potentially exposing more than 100,000 US troops to low levels of the organophosphate nerve agents sarin and cyclosarin. Little is known about the neurophysiological effects of low-dose exposure to sarin/cyclosarin in humans, although some research has indicated subtle but persistent neurobehavioral and neurochemical changes in individuals exposed to sarin/cyclosarin at levels insufficient to produce obvious clinical symptoms. However, ...

Prevalence and Outcomes of Restless Legs Syndrome Among Veterans

FEB 2007

95 pages

Authors: Claire C. Bourguet; NORTHEASTERN OHIO UNIVERSITIES COLLEGE OF MEDICINE ROOTSTOWN

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a commonly under diagnosed organi cause of insomnia. There is evidence that insomnia leads to psychic distress which impacts health care utilization. Purpose: To examine a proposed model which links RLS to insomnia, and insomnia to reduced mental health and increased utilization. Scope: To estimate the prevalence of RLS, insomnia, mood disorders, and substance abuse; quantify the proportion of mood disorders and substance abuse which ...

Modeling Human Epithelial Ovarian Cancer in Mice by Alteration of Expression of the BRCA1 and/p53 Genes

FEB 2007

8 pages

Authors: Denise Connolly; FOX CHASE CANCER CENTER PHILADELPHIA PA

About one out of every ten cases of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is inherited. The majority >90% of inherited cases of EOC are the result of mutations in the breast cancer associated gene I (BRCA1). This gene was originally identified based on genetic linkage to families with an increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. It is involved in controlling normal cellular growth and is thought to suppress the ...

Injuries and Injury Prevention in the US Army Band

30 DEC 2006

231 pages

Authors: Joseph J. Knapik; Sarah B. Jones; Doug W. Ohlin; Michelle Canham-Chervak; Salima S. Darakjy; Donald E. Goddard; Keith G. Hauret; Jeffrey A. Hadley; Gregory Twombly; Deanna K. Harkins; ARMY CENTER FOR HEALTH PROMOTION AND PREVENTIVE MEDICINE ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND MD

Injury rates and potential risk factors were examined in the 284 members of the US Army Band in response to a request from the Band Commander. Collected data included 1) information obtained directly from the Band (fitness test scores, height, weight, etc.), 2) medical data from the Defense Medical Surveillance System, 3) audiograms of Band member from the Defense Occupational and Environmental Health Readiness System-Hearing Conservation database, 4) focus group ...

PTSD Prevalence, Associated Exposures, and Functional Health Outcomes in a Large, Population - Based Military Cohort

15-Dec-2006

15 pages

Authors: Tyler C Smith; Deborah L Wingard; Margaret A Ryan; Donna Kritz-Silverstein; Donald J Slymen; James F Sallis; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) results from experiencing or witnessing traumatic life-threatening events and is often associated with combat-related experiences. Baseline data from the Millennium Cohort collected from 74,947 members were analyzed to describe the prevalence of PTSD symptoms and associated self-reported exposures and functional health in a large cross-section of the US military. PTSD diagnosis without current symptoms was reported by 951 (1.2% weighted) 1,487 (2.0% weighted) reported no PTSD ...

Reduction of Racial Disparities in Prostate Cancer

DEC 2006

21 pages

Authors: Nicholas Daniels; CALIFORNIA UNIV REGENTS SAN FRANCISCO

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a major cause of illness and the association with past urinary tract infections is unclear. We surveyed a racially, ethnically and socioeconomically diverse, community-based sample of adults aged 30-79 years in Boston, Massachusetts. This report gives estimates from the 2301 men in the BACH survey: 700 Black, 766 Hispanic, and 835 White. Symptoms of chronic prostatitis any perineal and/or ejaculatory pain and a ...