WINDWARD ISLANDS RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION · Cover Page Photos left to right from the top Former West Indies Cricket players: Winston Benjamin, Curtly Ambrose, Kenny Benjamin

WINDWARD ISLANDS

RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION

2010 Annual Report

17th Anniversary

Sport for Health in the Caribbean

Cover Page Photos left to right from the top Former West Indies Cricket players: Winston Benjamin, Curtly Ambrose, Kenny Benjamin

Photographs provided by Phil Daniels, West Indies Cricket Heritage Centre, Grenada Grenada school children Kirani James, 2012 Olympic contender Children participating in the 2010 Spice Isle Triathlon

Photographs provided by Derek Pickell, courtesy of Grenada Triathlon Association Children participating in the Cross Harbour Swim, 2010

Photos courtesy of Grenada Triathlon Association

Mission Statement

F ounded in 1994, WINDREF seeks to advance health and environmental development through multi-disciplinary

research and education programs. WINDREF strives for program excellence by promoting collaborative relationships between internationally recognized scholars and regional scientists, and by adhering to the highest ethical and academic standards in the design and conduct of research.

Goals To provide a scientific resource center capable of

coordinating international collaborative research of the highest caliber in the areas of medical and veterinary public health, anthropology, ecology, marine and terrestrial biology, and ethics.

To provide a first rate academic opportunity to scientists from the Caribbean and around the world offering unique research opportunities to enhance the knowledge and welfare of local and international communities.

To conduct applied scientific research for the benefit of community and health development at the local, national and international levels.

To share relevant scientific information with local and international communities.

WINDREF Annual Report 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Director’s Report: WINDREF Activities in 2010 (Calum N.L. Macpherson, PhD, DIC) .............................................................................. 1

2.0 WINDREF Organization ............................................................................................... 5

2.1 WINDREF Research Institute Board of Directors .................................................. 5

2.2 WINDREF St. Vincent and the Grenadines Board of Directors ............................... 5

2.3 WINDREF Research Institute Scientific Advisory Board ........................................ 5

2.4 WINDREF Research Institute Administration ......................................................... 5

2.5 WINDREF (USA) ..................................................................................................... 5

2.6 WINDREF (UK) ....................................................................................................... 5

2.7 WINDREF (UK) Board of Trustees ......................................................................... 6

2.8 WINDREF (UK) Administration .............................................................................. 6

2.9 WINDREF Senior Research Fellows ........................................................................ 6

2.10 WINDREF Research Fellows ................................................................................... 6

2.11 WINDREF Research Scientists ................................................................................ 7

3.0 Institutional Review Board (IRB) ................................................................................. 7

3.1 IRB Projects Reviewed ............................................................................................. 8

4.0 Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) ........................................... 7

5.0 Current Research Projects ............................................................................................ 7

5.1 Beta hemolytic streptococci in St. Vincent and the Grenadines ............................... 8

5.2 Photovoltaic Power Generation Program ................................................................ 10

5.3 Caribbean EcoHealth Programme (CEHP) & Atlantis Mobile Laboratory (AML) Report on Teasdale-Corti CEHP Grant ................................................................... 11

5.4 Genome annotation in microorganisms and metagenomic libraries as a part of an undergraduate curriculum ....................................................................................... 15

5.5 Molecular identification of marine Vibrio isolated in Grenada .............................. 17

5.6 Occurrence of Antibiotic-resistant Fecal Indicators in Coastal waters of Southern Grenada .................................................................................................................. 19

5.7 Marine Research Related Activities ....................................................................... 21


5.8 Baseline Coral Reef Monitoring Program for Sandy Island Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area Mooring Buoy Installation Project ................................................ 23

5.9 Economic Evaluation Study of Coastal and Near Shore Resources of Carriacou .. 25

5.10 “Soil Transmitted Helminths” and Streptococci infections among school going children between the ages of 5- 15 years old in the Parish of St. Andrew’s. .......... 26

5.11 Student Satisfaction, Comfort and Self-confidence in a Simulation Lab Practice Session ..................................................................................................................... 28

5.12 Implementing Renewable Energy and Preventing Land Degradation: An Intervention in the Nutmeg Industry in Grenada ......................................................................... 28

5.13 Disaster Management in Grenada: Northumbria University Student Research ..... 30

6.0 2010 Grants ................................................................................................................... 32

6.1 Externally funded projects ....................................................................................... 33

6.2 Grant submissions .................................................................................................... 34

7.0 Past, Present, and Future Research Projects ............................................................ 35

7.1 Non-communicable Diseases ................................................................................... 35

7.2 Infectious Diseases ................................................................................................... 36

7.3 Unique Projects ........................................................................................................ 38

8.0 International Conferences Sponsored in Grenada ................................................... 36

9.0 Abstracts/Presentations at International Conferences Invited Plenary/Workshop/Roundtable/Professional Meetings/CME .................... 39

10.0 Publications .................................................................................................................. 40

10.1 Books/Book Chapters ............................................................................................. 40

10.2 Journal Publications ................................................................................................ 41

11.0 Reviewers for Journals and Boards ............................................................................ 44

12.0 Thesis Defenses .............................................................................................................. 45

13.0 Graduate Seminars ....................................................................................................... 45

14.0 Contact Information ..................................................................................................... 48


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1.0 Highlights of the WINDREF Research Institute’s Activities

2010 was another productive year at WINDREF and one in which a number of long-term research and educational initiatives were successfully launched.

One such initiative was launched by Sir Kenneth Stuart who facilitated a workshop at WINDREF in March on non communicable chronic diseases. The meeting brought together faculty and scientists from The University of the West Indies, SGU’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPHPM), Rockefeller University, Barbados Diabetes Foundation, and WINDREF. These discussions were to facilitate the formation of the Caribbean Chronic Disease Consortium (CCDC). The overall purpose will be training, research and the promotion of activities to address non

communicable chronic diseases in the Caribbean. The expected benefits include regional and international collaborations, research partnerships, and shared technical support.

In May, the second Tropical Medicine selective to Kenya was completed with 22 medical students and 3 physicians participating. Through our ongoing collaboration with AMREF the group had the opportunity to visit the Nairobi, Magadi, Loitokitok and Mbagathi Hospitals, and the Entasopia Health Clinic. The participants had

the opportunity to see a variety of medical care settings by attending ward rounds and ultrasound clinics. Cultural experiences included visits to a Maasai manyatta (homestead), the Entarara Primary School where students administered deworming tablets to approximately 1500 school children, the Orphanage and the Waithaka Health Centre, AMREF local headquarters, a day hike up Ngurumani Hill, a visit to the Giraffe Centre, and two days were spent in the Maasai Mara.

In September, meetings were held with faculty from SGU’s DPHPM, to discuss a proposal for the establishment of a

CCDC Meeting Participants. Front row: Mary Jeanne Kreek, Trevor Noel, Satesh Bidaisee, Oscar Jordan, Sir Kenneth Stuart, Simone McConnie; Back row: Calum Macpherson, Esperance Schaefer, Amber Larsen, Muge Akpinar-Elci, Omur Cinar-Elci, Emmanuel Keku, Trevor Hassell

2010 Tropical Medicine participants came from Sweden, Germany, Canada, USA, Kenya, Nigeria, Trinidad and Tobago and Hong Kong comprising 22 MD students, 3 physicians and 1 Parasitologist pictured here on the edge of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.


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Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (REEF) initiative and a MOU with the Government of Grenada.

In October WINDREF was the facilitator for the Regional Heteroptera Identification Workshop. The USDA-APHIS in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the CARICOM Secretariat, with technical expertise provided by the Florida Association for Volunteer Action in the Caribbean and the Americas (FAVACA) executed this workshop with a focus on pests of quarantine importance of the Order Heteroptera.

Dr. Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, delivered the 11th Annual WINDREF Research Lecture and the 3rd Annual K.B. Taylor Memorial Lecture on the 28th October at Charter Hall at St. George's University. Dr Fuster spoke on the topic “The Worldwide Challenge of Cardiovascular Disease."“ He informed the audience on the importance of taking preventive healthcare measures with mention of managing high cholesterol and blood pressure, and warding off obesity through good diet and exercise programs

early on in life to avoid the accumulation of disease throughout the aging process.

Dr. Fuster proposed proactive measures that can be taken to alleviate the increasing global problem of Cardio-Vascular Disease (CVD). CVD will become one of the potential areas of focus for WINDREF in the coming year.

In October, WINDREF, was invited to attend the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Workshop entitled “Civil Society Capacity Building Workshop on Chronic Diseases”, held in Barbados. Ms. Amber Larsen represented WINDREF as part of a delegation of multi disciplinary organizations representing 15 Caribbean countries. The focus of the workshop included actions to be taken to step up a collaborative approach to combat chronic diseases in the Caribbean.

WINDREF launched its “Sport for Health in the Caribbean” initiative which aims to inspire a healthier generation of Caribbean youth. This campaign has been endorsed by Grenada’s National Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Sports (Government of

Participants of the Regional Heteroptera identification workshop held at WINDREF in October, 2010.

Following the 11th Annual WINDREF and 3rd Annual KB Taylor Memorial lecture, presented by Dr Valentin Fuster (2nd from right) are Drs Charles Modica, Dr Matthew Beaubrun (2nd from Left) and Calum Macpherson.


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Grenada). Sport for Health will make its debut in Grenada, and will be spread to the rest of the Caribbean with activities geared to addressing the growing burden of childhood obesity and the potential risk of non-communicable diseases and the promotion of a healthier philosophy among children and their families. As a first step in the evolution of this initiative, some of Grenada’s Olympic athletes have been asked to become sporting ambassadors at Grenada’s secondary schools sports days to be held in the coming year.

A dinner at the House of Lords, co-hosted by Grenadian peer, Baroness Howells of St David’s and WINDREF’s President, Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior, was held on November 10th to raise funds for the Sport for Health campaign. Lord Sebastian “Seb” Coe, Chairman of the London Organising Committee of the 2012 Olympic Games and former double Olympic gold medalist, spoke at the dinner about “Sport for Health in the Caribbean: The Inspiration of the Olympics”. Additionally, The President of Grenada’s

Olympic Committee, Mr Royston La Hee also spoke at the dinner of the opportunities and potential that such a partnership could bring.

Professor Alan Fenwick, Professor of Tropical Parasitology at Imperial College, London, spoke at the dinner, describing the threat posed to the health of the region by Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) - a subject of concern for the Caribbean. WINDREF is currently addressing this issue through its research.

The current programs in many areas continue to progress, and are detailed in this year’s Annual Report. We appreciate all who made 2010 a productive and successful year.

Submitted by Calum N.L. Macpherson Director

The WINDREF Board with some of the attendees at the House of Lord’s dinner. From left to right: Trevor Noël, Karen Lawson, Royston La Hee, Lord Seb Coe, Kirani James, Calum Macpherson, Lord Soulsby, Richard Summerfield, Margaret Lambert, Charles Modica, Baroness Howells, Patrick Orr.


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2.0 WINDREF Organization

2.1 WINDREF Research Institute Board of Directors

Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior, MRCVS, DVSM, MA, C.Biol., F.I.Biol., DSc (Hon), (President)

Calum N.L. Macpherson, PhD, DIC, (Vice President)

Margaret Lambert, MA, (Secretary/Treasurer)

Mary Jeanne Kreek, MD, PharmD (Hon), PhD (Hon)

Karen Lawson, PhD

Trevor P. Noël, MPH

Allen Pensick, PhD

2.2 WINDREF St. Vincent and the Grenadines Board of Directors

Ed Johnson, MD, Director

Sir Fredrick Ballantyne, MD, Deputy Director

2.3 WINDREF Research Institute Scientific Advisory Board

Sir Frederick Ballantyne, MD

John R. David, MD

John J. Ferguson, MBChB, FRCGP Malcolm Ferguson-Smith, MBChB, FRCP,

FRCPath

Edmond Fischer, DSc

Sir Malcolm Macnaughton, MD, LLD, FRCPG, FRAC

Calum Macpherson, PhD, DIC

Thomas W. Meade, CBE, DM, FRS

Graham Serjeant, MD, FRCP, CMG

Sir Kenneth Stuart, MD, DSc (Hon)

M.S. Swaminathan, DSc

John B. Zabriskie, MD

2.4 WINDREF Research Institute Administration

Mrs. Isha English continued as Administrative Assistant, Ms. Meg Conlon as Executive Secretary. Ms. Naomi Alexander joined WINDREF this year as Secretary

2.5 WINDREF (USA)

WINDREF (USA) was established as a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization to facilitate coordination of the USA activities and to administer charitable donations from the United States. Its goal is to enhance the development of WINDREF’s research and educational programs. The offices are located on Long Island in the state of New York and provide administrative and logistical support. Ms. Valerie Smith continued as program coordinator in the New York Office.

2.6 WINDREF (UK)

WINDREF (UK) was set-up as a charitable trust in Winchester, England in 1999 to promote collaboration between WINDREF scientists and academic centers of research in the United Kingdom. It is hoped that by reaching out to a larger scientific community, WINDREF will broaden its research opportunities by forming collaborations with scientists from the European community. A Board of Trustees was appointed in 1999 to oversee the activities of WINDREF (UK). A Program Coordinator was appointed to provide the administrative support and expertise that is central to WINDREF’s (UK) fundraising, administrative and collaborative activities.


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2.7 WINDREF (UK) Board of Trustees

Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior, MRCVS, DVSM, MA, C.Biol., F.I.Biol., DSc(Hon), {Chairman)

Sir Kenneth Calman, KCB, FRCSE

Baroness Howells of St. David, OBE

Mr. Patrick Orr

Sir Kenneth Stuart, MD, DSc

Richard Summerfield, MB, BChir

Neil Poulter, MD

Margaret Lambert, MA (Ex Officio)

Calum Macpherson, PhD, DIC (Ex Officio)

2.8 WINDREF (UK) Administration

Ms. Sue Huntington continued as Executive Secretary. Ms. Huntington provides the administrative support and expertise that is central to WINDREF’S (UK) fundraising, administrative and collaborative activities.

2.9 WINDREF Senior Research Fellows

Paul Fields, PhD, Brigham Young University

Paul Garner, MBBS, PhD, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine

Mary Glenn, PhD, Humboldt State University

Duane Gubler, ScD, Hawaii University

Ruth Milner, MSc, Vancouver Hospital

Stephen Morse, PhD, Columbia University

Leslie Ramsammy, PhD, DSC (Hon) Minister of Health, Guyana

Douglas Slater, MD, MPH, Minister of Health, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Stanley Weiss, MD, UMDMJ

2.10 WINDREF Research Fellows

The following investigators have been appointed to WINDREF as Research Fellows and are currently conducting collaborative research projects.

WINDREF Research Fellows include:

Muge Akpinar-Elci, MD, MPH

John Adamski, MD, MSc, MPH

Zuri Amuleru-Marshall, PhD

Glennis Andall, PhD

Charles Avgeris, MD, MSc

Grant Burgess, PhD

Dirk Burkhardt, MD, MSc, PhD

Reccia Charles, PhD

Sonia Chehil, MD, FRCPC

Francis Fakoya, MBBS, PhD

Martin Forde, DSc

Orazio Giliberti, MD

Richard Kabuusu, DVM, MPH

Victoria Kimotho, MPH

Svetlana Kotelnikova, PhD

Matthias Lorenz, PhD

Marios Loukas, MD, PhD

Theresa McCann, MPH, PhD

Barrymore McBarnette, MD

Craig McCarty, PhD

Clare Morrall, PhD

Shamdeo Persaud, MD, MPH

Bonnie Rusk, MSc

Samina Rutrecht, PhD

Shanti Singh, MD, MPH


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2.11 WINDREF Research Scientists

Sadiq Al-Tamini, Jonathan Ashcroft, Sumita Asthana, Yitzhack Asulin, Bishara Baddour, Jean-Pierre Barakat, Matthew Beeson, Keith Bensen, Matthew Boles, Karen Brennan, William Brown, Matt Browne, Ella Cameron, Nicholas Caputo, Jessica Clayton, Mmakgomo Coangae, Rae Connolly, Abraham El-Sedfy, Daniel Firer, Scott Forman, Brandon Francis, Vamsi Guntur, François Hallé, Anthony Junck, Megan Kaminskyj, Sebastian Kreitzschitz, Erik Lacy, Ede Langevine, Richard Lehman, Setshidi Makwinja, Paul Mancuso, Baher Maximos, John McCormack, David Melamed, Kirk Minkus, Jerry Mitchell, Jessica Morlok, Kevin Neill, Bayela Nfila, Yolanda Ng, Michael Nillas, Steve Nimrod, Andre Panagos, Rakesh Patel, Barry Politi, Sandeep Pulim, Sean Ramsammy, Justin Rebo, Alan Rhoades, Laura Robinson, Karin Schioler, Corey Schwartz, Sarah Scott, Christopher Skaff, David Steinberg, Derrick Tlhoiwe, Sarah Treter, Nghia Truong, James Tsai, Dan Twyan, Frank Van Natta, Ru-Amir Walker, Juliette Williams, David Winokur, Colleen Wunderlich, Elliot Yung.

3.0 Institutional Review Board (IRB)

The IRB is registered with the US Office of Human Research Protection, Department of Health and Human Services, and conforms to international standards. It meets four times a year, usually the 3rd Friday of February, April, October and November. The deadline for the receipt of proposals to be reviewed is two weeks before the meeting. Proposals that meet the criteria for Expedited Review are reviewed within approximately two weeks by

the Executive Committee.

The IRB makes an independent determination about whether to approve or disapprove a protocol. Determinations are based upon whether or not human subjects are adequately protected from possible harms including violations of privacy and confidentiality.

Some research that involves human subjects may be exempt from the regulations requiring IRB review. Examples include educational testing and surveys that use no identifying information to link subjects to the data, and through which disclosure of data would not reasonably place the subjects at risk of civil or criminal liability, or be otherwise damaging to the subject. Also considered for exemption is research that involves the use of existing data, documents, or specimens, where there is no identifying information about participants.

Jurisdictional questions arise in that as part of their Assurances with the US authorities, institutions are required to protect human subjects involved in research whether or not the research is conducted or supported by a US federal department or agency.

Many institutions’ human subjects policies stipulate that even research that may be exempt from review is to be reviewed by the IRB prior to classifying it as exempt. The SGU IRB has adopted this policy with the view of preventing the overload of the small pool of research participants available in Grenada, and assuring there is administrative knowledge of research taking place within SGU or Grenada before the work is conducted and findings are disseminated.


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Beginning during the Fall of 2009, the IRB requires that a printed certificate of completion of the on-line training course “Protecting Human Research Participants” is provided to the IRB by all investigators at the time of submission of a research proposal to the IRB. The certification is valid for two years. There is no charge for the course, which is accessible on http://phrp.nihtraining.com/users/login.php.

In addition to annual summary reports, outcomes of research must be provided to the IRB/SGU Office of Research. Any publications or conference presentations arising from the research should be shared with the IRB/Office of Research, and copies of successfully published work should be provided to the IRB/Office of Research.

3.1 IRB Projects Reviewed:

37 projects were submitted to the IRB in 2010. 26 projects were approved by expedited review, and 1 was formally exempted. The balance of the projects submitted were pending approval.

4.0 Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)

The use of animals for research or teaching purposes must be pre-approved by the SGU IACUC. The IACUC forms are available on the Office of Research website, forms and policies page.

Submitted by Meg Conlon IRB Administrator Office of Research

5.0 Current Research Projects

5.1 Beta hemolytic streptococci in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Rheumatic Fever is as a result of exposure to Streptococcus pyogenes. The sequelae of this can lead to Rheumatic heart disease. Rheumatic heart disease is a debilitating condition that is usually brought on by stenosis of the mitral or aortic valves.

In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, ten schools were selected for the streptococcal study. These schools had been included several years ago in an initial Echocardiogram study that used ECHO only without a provision for the Duckett Jones Criteria. This was carried out with the assistance of Dr. William Moskowitz. Dr. William Moskowitz is an active member in the Richmond-based International Hospital for Children, and a founder of the Mended Little Hearts, Virginia Chapter, a support group for families with children with congenital heart disease.

Project results meeting with Dr. William Moskowitz, Trevor Noël, Dr. Bharatti Datta, and Community Nursing Service representatives at the Milton Cato Hospital Cardiac Clinic, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

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The study was ethically approved by the Research Oversight Committee in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The current study involved drawing blood samples and throat swabs. A total of 1,300 participants were selected. The school children were randomly selected and were between the ages of 5 – 15 years old. The blood samples were analyzed using Anti streptolysin O titres tests and the throat swabs were subjected to cultural isolation for beta hemolytic streptococci. All positive cases were treated at the Cardiology clinic or at decentralized clinics in the community.

The educational component of the study was begun with initial sensitization of community health workers and educational workers. The primary prevention (education) was administered in a multimedia format. The PowerPoint presentations were made to health care personnel and to all the school principals from St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In addition, 11,000 brochures were distributed to the schools and health centers throughout St. Vincent and the

Grenadines. Laminated posters have been placed in all schools and health centers.

This program is using the model that was used initially in the Grenada streptococcal project. In Grenada, the educational program was run for 2 years and in the following third year we recorded no new cases of RF. The thoughts pertaining to the aspect of rescreening have varied. However, by consensus we hope to possibly rescreen in the Fall of 2011. In the interim, we have noted the importance of educating the public through both the Ministries of Health and Education about the use of health departments, penicillin, and streptococcal/rheumatic fever follow-up.

The 1,295 schoolchildren that gave blood samples and the 1,300 schoolchildren that gave throat swabs were selected from ten schools in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The schools included in this study are Pageat Farm, Bequia, Mustique Government, Questelles, Chateaubelair, Sandy Bay, Georgetown, Stubbs Government, Mesopotamia, Stony Grounds and CW Prescodd. The sera samples that were positive for anti–bodies to streptococcal

Prevalence of Positive ASO TITRE and Beta Hemolytic Streptococci by Primary School in St. Vincent and the

Grenadines 2009

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

Bequia

C.W

. Pre

scod

Chate

aubelair

Geor

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Kings

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Must

ique

Ques

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s

Sandy

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Pos. ASO Titre

Pos. CombinedßHS

Figure 1

Community Nursing Service, St. Vincent and the Grenadines meeting with Sister Feroza Roche, Sister Donette Cunningham, and Trevor Noël to discuss project results and future logistics.


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infection and the throat cultures that were positive for beta hemolytic streptococci in St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2009 can be seen in figure 1.

The school with the largest ASOT positive percentage was Bequia located in the Grenadines, 58.75 % of the school population sampled tested positive. The school with the lowest ASOT positive percentage was Mustique located in the Grenadines, 16.67% of the school population sampled tested positive. The average ASOT positive percentage for the ten schools was 38.15 %.

The school with the largest percentage of throat cultures that were positive for beta hemolytic streptococci was Chateaubelair located in the North West of the island, 29.76 % of the school population sampled tested positive. The school with the lowest percentage of throat cultures that were positive for beta hemolytic streptococci was Mustique, 13.33% of the population sampled tested positive. The average percentage of throat cultures that were positive for beta hemolytic streptococci for the ten schools was 20.92 %.

The 20.92% of the throat cultures that were positive for beta hemolytic streptococci were divided into the following subtypes: type A 7.54 %, Non type A beta hemolytic streptococci 13.38 % (figure 2).

Positive beta hemolytic streptococci samples are currently stored in the WINDREF Institute in Grenada and will be sent to Rockefeller University and the University of Minnesota for further subtyping.

This study was carried out in collaboration with WINDREF, Rockefeller University, University of Minnesota and the Ministries of Health and Education, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the Richmond-based International Hospital for Children.

Submitted by Trevor P. Noël, MPH Assistant Director, WINDREF

5.2 Photovoltaic Power Generation Program

In August the Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Test Field commenced operations with measurements being collected and assessed. For this research project, new technology

Inverters located at Hubbards, Grand Anse Valley branch

Prevalence of Bacitracin Sensitive and Resistant Beta Hemolytic Streptococci for 10 Primary Schools in St.

Vincent and the Grenadines 2009

Neg. ßHS79%

Pos. Bacitracin Sensitive ßHS

8%

Pos. ResistantßHS13%

Neg. ßHS

Pos. Resistant ßHS

Pos. Bacitracin Sensitive ßHS

Figure 2


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thinfilm PV modules (sulfurcell and dual junction modules) are tested side-by-side against conventional mono- and polycristalline PV modules. Each test system has a size of 2.5 kWp (cumulative 15kWp). Identical inverters are used and many parameters are measured (i.e. global irradiation, temperature, output of the systems in W, V, Amp etc.). The value of the installed components is over $120,000 USD.

Initially, 2 years ago, the plan was to locate this research project on St. George’s University (SGU) roofs. Unfortunately, this was not possible, so we had to search for a new partner. T. A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) showed very much interest, but the Minister of Education did not approve. Finally, Jonas Browne & Hubbard (Grenada) Ltd., commonly referred to as “Hubbards”, agreed to partner with us and the testfield was installed on the roofs of the Grand Anse Valley branch.

The main objectives of this project are to answer the following questions:

How do PV thinfilm modules perform in the Caribbean Region (CR)?

Which technology is the best for the CR?

Which technology is the most cost effective?

This project is, to our knowledge, unique in the region. We are looking forward to reporting answers to our questions soon.

Submitted by D. Burkhardt, MD, MSc, PhD

5.3 Caribbean EcoHealth Programme (CEHP) & Atlantis Mobile Laboratory (AML) Report on Teasdale-Corti CEHP Grant

Introduction and Background

Since the initiation of the Caribbean Ecohealth Programme (CEHP) in the Caribbean in April 2008, multiple programme activities have been started and executed. During the period November 2009 to September, 2010, several CEHP programme activities were undertaken.

The Program Coordinating Unit (PCU) of CEHP and its mobile laboratory, the Atlantis Mobile Laboratory (AML), were relocated from Grenada to Dominica in April 2009. Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) and the Dominican Ministry of Health served as hosts for the PCU and AML. Among

Figure 1 AML located at Ross University in Dominica

Solar Test Field, Hubbards, Grand Anse Valley Branch


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activities undertaken while in Dominica were a sub-regional training course on the Epidemiology of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Pesticides along with specific training on how to execute CEHP’s POPs research study. The POPs study was executed nationally in Dominica and samples for heavy metals analyzed at AML. The CEHP also engaged in several national research activities as requested by a number of governmental and non-governmental agencies. These agencies included the Environmental Health Department (EHD), the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Dominica Water and Sewage Company (DOWASCO). Significantly, the CEHP was able to collaborate and assist the Carib Territory Regional Council to help evaluate drinking water sources.

In April 2009, the CEHP’s PCU and the AML relocated to Barbados hosted by the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH). In Barbados, the CEHP is continuing to facilitate the core research activities of the CEHP and is assisting with national environmental monitoring activities

in Barbados and St. Lucia. This includes research on marine water quality indicators and analyses for pesticides and other toxic compounds in the marine environment.

Project Research Activities and Results

Human Monitoring of POPs, Pesticides, Heavy Metals, and Zoonoses

The persistent organic pollutants (POPs) research study, led by SGU and Laval University, which originally covered four (4) islands, was expanded to the entire CARICOM region with funding provided by the Canadian POPs Fund through the World Bank ($250,000 USD). To date research assistants from 11 islands have been trained and the study has been executed in eight (8)

islands with blood and sera samples obtained for analyses (Table 1). Results are now becoming available and will first be made available to the governments and subsequently to the general public in

Country Status (max 50 sam-ples)

Grenada Completed

St. Vincent Completed

St. Lucia 42 samples completed Dominica Completed

Antigua 47 samples completed

Jamaica Completed

Guyana Ongoing

Belize Completed

Barbados Ongoing

Montserrat Ongoing

St. Kitts and Nevis Completed

Bermuda 44 ongoing

Table 1 Training and sample collection

Figure 2 AML located in Barbados


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accordance with approval conditions from the participating countries.

Draft preliminary POPs national reports for Dominica and Grenada are now available and will soon be presented to each island’s government.

A successful agreement was made with Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) in St. Kitts to coordinate the zoonoses component of the POPs study. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and RUSVM are currently conducting analyses of the POPs samples for selected zoonoses including Letospiroses.

National Research Activities in Dominica

Environmental Monitoring

Environmental monitoring in the Carib Territory was based on requests and concerns expressed by the Regional Council concerning the potential for POPs and pesticide residues to occur in ambient water, drinking water, soil, and food. Analyses for the heavy metals took place at AML while the analyses for POPs and pesticides was done at the environmental laboratory of the

Ministry of the Environment of Quebec, Canada.

Some of the results for the environmental monitoring conducted in Dominica are shown below.

River Profiling – Picard River, Portsmouth, Dominica

Determination of the levels of selected pollutants from the mouth to the upper reaches of the Picard River in Portsmouth Dominica was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. Our Level of Detection (LOD) for lead (Pb) in fresh water was 1.0 µg/L. All of the sites sampled had Pb values < LOD. For mercury (Hg) in fresh water, our LOD was 0.4 nmol/L and similarly, as was the case with Pb levels, all sampled sites had Hg levels less than the limit of detection. The average phosphates concentration obtained was 0.075 mg/L and the average nitrates concentration measured was 0.165 mg/L.

Mercury in Fish Tissue

The limit of detection (LOD) for mercury in fish tissue is 0.1 nmol/g for a 500 mg

Figure 3 Potable Water Sampling at Carib Territory

Figure 4 Sampling Ambient Freshwater in Carib Territory


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sample in a final volume of 50 mL. The reference data guideline value for Hg in fish tissue for Canada is 0.5 ppm (2.5 nmol/g), while that for the USA is 1 ppm or 5 nmol/g (FDA 1994, revised in 1995). The US FDA bases its figure according to the lowest level for which adverse effects were found to occur in adults. Two species of parrotfish––Red Tail and Princess––fell below the LOD value. For both the Canadian and US guideline values we found only one fish species showing elevated Hg concentration, which was the blue marlin.

Mercury in Fresh Water

For the fresh water mercury analysis, 51 sites were sampled including Portsmouth, the Carib Territory, and some locations in the south. The limit of detection for the method used was 0.4 nmol/L. The guideline values for fresh water Hg from the US EPA and Canada are: 0 – 10 nmol and 0 – 5 nmol/L, respectively for the normal concentration ranges. All sites sampled had Hg levels < LOD.

Mercury in marine coastal waters

The results for the mercury concentration in the marine samples are shown in Figure 6. There were a total of 153 coastal sites sampled throughout the island in all regions (North, East, West and South). The method detection limit was 0.4 nmol/L. Out of the total sites sampled, 134 sites measured Hg < LOD. Geometric mean concentrations are in the ranges of 0.40 – 0.45 nmol/L. For the east and north coast all sites measured levels Hg < LOD.

Inorganic Nutrients

The results for the inorganic nutrient, nitrates and phosphates, along the Picard River, are shown in Figure 5.

Nutrients Analyses at National Level

A total of 72 sampling sites, including the river profiling, were assessed for nutrient levels. The pH values for all fresh water sites varied from 6.9 - 8.2, and that of the marine water locations varied between 7.9 – 8.9. For the fresh water sites, dissolved oxygen values varied from 7.0 – 10.0 mg/L and that of the marine water environment varied between 7.0 – 12 mg/L.

The remaining nutrient analyses (ammonia, phosphates, total nitrates, free and total chlorine) were carried out for the Portsmouth and Carib Territory locations.

In Portsmouth, the total nitrates and phosphates for the marine waters analyzed measured 0 mg/L for all sites sampled. Geometric mean concentration for free chlorine was 0.1 mg/L and total chlorine concentration was 0.1 mg/L. Geometric mean concentration of ammonia was 0.125 mg/L.

Figure 5 Concentrations of Nitrates and Phos-phates in Picard River


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In the Carib Territory, only fresh water samples were taken. The concentration for total chlorine at all sites was 0 mg/L.

Analyses for Trihalomethanes

Based on a request for assistance from DOWASCO as well as interest in the issues of halomethanes from the Ministry of Health, potable water samples were collected along the distribution system for three (3) intakes and analysed for selected halomethanes.

Determination of Chlorophenols

Fresh water samples were analyzed for a total of 47 chlorophenols for three of the major water intakes on the island. This sampling was done in collaboration with DOWASCO. All values obtained were < MDL for their respective methods.

Organophosphorus Pesticides

Organophosphorus pesticide analyses were carried out for both fresh and marine waters, soil, and plant tissue sample matrices.

For the water samples, both marine and fresh water organophosphorus levels were less than the LOD for the method. Samples

were taken from three of the major water intakes, from the Carib Territory rivers and springs and some coastal marine areas in Portsmouth and the East coast. A total of 55 organophosphorus pesticide compounds were analyzed for.

As well as the water samples, the plant and soil tissue analyses carried out demonstrated levels to be less than the LOD for each method of analysis. A total of 48 organophosphorus pesticide compound analyses were carried out.

Organochlorine Pesticides

Chlorinated pesticide analyses were conducted for marine and fresh water samples. Samples were taken from the Carib Territory (fresh water rivers and springs), Portsmouth (marine water), and DOWASCO major water intakes (fresh water).

A total of 29 analyses were done per sample. All sample sites had reported levels less than LOD for their respective methods.

Submitted by Martin St. Clair Forde, ScD, P. Eng

5.4 Genome annotation in microorganisms and metagenomic libraries as a part of an undergraduate curriculum

In November 2009 the proposal “Genome annotation in microorganisms and metagenomic libraries as a part of an undergraduate curriculum,” submitted by Dr. Svetlana Kotelnikova and collaborators, was awarded funding by the US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute (JGI). This proposal demonstrated the potential of enriching the curriculum with sequence-based research, contributing to a new model

Sample Type Geometric mean con-centration

NH3 (mg/L)

Geometric mean con-centration PO4

-3 (mg/L)

Geometric mean con-centration NO3

- (mg/L)

Tap/ Pipe Water

0.100 0.048 0.035

Fresh Water springs

0.096 0.097 0.180

Rivers 0.100 0.055 0.040 WHO guide-

lines for drink-ing water

(2008)

1.5 50 (acute exposure)

Table 2 Geometric mean concentration for nutrients in each sample matrix analyzed in the Carib Territory

http://www.sgu.edu/�


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for undergraduate and graduate research. The JGI has selected St. George’s University as a collaborator in the Undergraduate Research Program in Microbial Genome Annotation. The program funded participation in the workshop for collaborators, held on January 28-29, 2010 in Walnut Creek, California. Access was also provided to the educational Integrated Microbial Genome (IMG) website.

At the completion of the Workshop Dr. Kotelnikova took home a working knowledge of several key bioinformatics tools and a strengthened ability to connect scientific questions to learning goals and pertinent bioinformatics tools. As she began to use the skills gained at SGU, several measurable outcomes became evident for the participating students. Upon completion of the exercise most of them are able to:

Understand the role of scientific research and the process through which it occurs

Make new connections between virtual, theoretical and wet-lab components of courses

Seek out independent research opportunities

Use knowledge of bioinformatics during their medical carrier

During Fall 2010, Dr. Kotelnikova offered a new type of practicum for undergraduate students. In ASBIOL 320, students worked directly with Dr. Kotelnikova on the pilot project in Undergraduate Research in Microbial Genome Annotation.

The project aims to meet the need for more undergraduate students in science disciplines to be able to understand, interpret, and use molecular sequence information in

order to solve problems. The project features the analysis of microbial genomes, molecular sequences, and structural data, providing a framework for developing classroom activities and research projects for undergraduate students.

Analysis of the genomes of microorganisms is an important new tool in understanding the biology of organisms. With the new technologies available, complete microbial genomes can be sequenced in a matter of hours. Undergraduates will have the opportunity to computationally map the DNA of a patient or a microbe, conduct experiments to test their findings, publish their work in the worldwide online genome database and gain valuable skills in molecular biology research, genetics, biochemistry, microbial physiology and biochemistry, genomics and the usage of bioinformatics.

The advantages of this project for education at SGU are many: a low start-up cost for the high number of students involved in quality research, the low level of faculty resources needed to supervise the students once they are self reliant, and finally, the

Dr. Kotelnikova and IMG undergraduates

http://www.jgi.doe.gov/education/genomeannotation.html�

http://img-act.jgi-psf.org/user/login�


17

potential impact on accreditation of having multiple faculty and students involved in high quality research projects. Above all else, it is hoped that this all leads to a better level of preparation of our graduates for licensing examinations in the fields of biochemistry, genetics and genomics.

In addition, we created a collaborative relationship with JGI that opens new avenues for our graduate research. If we will have graduates that are skilled in interpretation of metagenomic sequences, we will become more competitive for funding. JGI will sequence genomes, undergraduates will annotate, and we will educate undergraduate and post-graduate students. It is a win-win situation.

In the future, we will introduce genome annotation as a part of our undergraduate curriculum in genetics, molecular biology and biochemistry. By doing this, we will train both faculty and students, as well as identify promising life science and pre-med students who may take advantage of our postgraduate programs for research.

Submitted by S. Kotelnikova

5.5 Molecular identification of marine Vibrio isolated in Grenada

This project is investigating fundamental aspects of the biology of Vibrio with the long-term goal of understanding their physiology, life cycle and evolution. A better understanding of these characteristics will facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies to prevent Vibrio infections of humans and marine animals, as well as providing essential insights into

Vibrio biology that will help our comprehension of future viral threats to human and animal health.

These microorganisms are the most often cultured organisms from the seawater and many of them are associated with multiple marine animals. They display polymorphism, produce different types of flagellation and have large genomes consisting of two unevenly sized circular chromosomes. Vibrios have been extensively studied by microbiologists for almost three decades. Despite this intensive study there are still gaps in our understanding of their diversity and evolution.

Many of the Vibrio species are opportunistic fish or shellfish pathogens that are common to marine and estuarine environments. They have been identified as the main cause of vibriosis, a potentially fatal septicemia that affect fish and shellfish in marine aquaculture, which result in economic losses. V. harveyi, V. anguillarum, V. splendidus, V. salmonicida, V. logei, V. halioticoli, V. scophthalmi, V. trachuri, V. ordalii, V. pectenicida, V. wadanis, and V. tubiashii are frequently associated with disease in different species of fish worldwide, while the group V. damsela comprises species that are potentially pathogenic to tropical fish. Due to the economic implications of marine Vibrio infections, there is considerable interest in methods to identify, type and track Vibrio related populations associated with marine reared animals. Identification of marine Vibrio strains can be a challenging task since species within the clade (V. harveyi, V.campbellii, V.alginolyticus, V.rotiferianus,


18

V.parahaemolyticus, V.mytili and V. natriegens) have a very high degree of both genetic and phenotypic similarity.

There are several sources within the marine environment of Grenada, where Vibrio-related organisms can be isolated. These include, sponges, bottom biofilms, clams, and oyster. The identification has been based on a combination of molecular and phenotypic studies. The differentiation power of 16S rRNA gene and FAME has been shown to be low for this particular group of organisms. The reproducibility of identification can be limited by changing phenotypes and genotypes in individual strains over time (genomic plasticity). Variable genetic events may be a part of the evolution that might be responsible for the changing phenotypes in members of the marine Vibrio group including horizontal gene transfer, chromosomal rearrangements, point mutations, duplication, and transduction. The relationship between the presence of virulent genes, their expression, and their virulence to different hosts would have to be demonstrated by a combination of molecular methods and traditional diagnostic

methods. Therefore, we are currently adapting a number of molecular methods for identification and typing of Vibrio related species isolated in Grenada at the Department of Microbiology. The major tools that we are planning to use are Direct Genome Restriction Enzyme Analysis (DGREA), Multilocus Sequence Analysis (MLSA) and quantitative (QT) real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

MLSA is based on the core genes that were shown earlier to provide good resolution while remaining specific for the genus of Vibrio. The targeted genes are present in a single copy and include the following housekeeping genes: Recombinase A, recA; rpoD; thermostable direct hemolysin, tdh; 16S rDNA, regulator of chromosome II replication, rctB; and urydilate kinase, pyrH. Our review discusses prospects and challenges for developing molecular methods for direct detection of marine Vibrios in complex samples (http//sgugenetics.vibrio). The analysis includes 9 unknown organisms isolated from shellfish, sea sponges, and bottom biofilms along with 6 control type strains representing 6 species of marine Vibrio and Photobacterium.

QT PCR can allow us to quantify single cells of V, parahaemolyticus based on gyrB gene which is present in a single copy and has variable sequences that are specific to only V. parahemolyticus. Vibrio parahaemolyticus is currently the most common pathogen contributing to seafood originating GI cases in the USA. The recent outbreak of cholera in the Caribbean region Western Haiti exemplify the importance of our project as it indicates the need for

R. Naraine, G. Penny, S. James, S. Kotelnikova


19

advanced diagnostics of Vibrio for the prevention and tracking of epidemics.

Bacterial typing systems therefore form the basis for the integration of bacterial taxonomy and epidemiology. Pathogen tracking is relevant for epidemiological studies concerned with the ecology and natural history of a disease; or with planning, monitoring and assessment of disease control programs. Methods for pathogen tracking include identification and typing methods as well as methods for direct detection and quantification of the relevant organism in environmental samples.

Submitted by S. Kotelnikova G. Penny, S. James and R. Naraine

5.6 Occurrence of Antibiotic-resistant Fecal Indicators in Coastal waters of Southern Grenada

The quality of recreational water is important for population health and well being. The Environmental Testing Unit (ETU) was established at the Department of Microbiology of St. George’s University by the faculty, staff, and administration to address the monitoring of drinking water and coastal waters around the SGU campuses.

Since 2003 the ETU has been monitoring a number of coastal areas on a weekly basis including Grand Anse Beach, Prickly Bay, Lance Aux Epines, True Blue Bay, and Black Sand Beach. The methodology used for the determination of the contamination level of the recreational water was adapted, developed, and described, and is currently used by ETU members Dr. David Lennon, Beulah Patterson, Brent Nelson, Grace Dolphin, Victor Amadi, Aví Bahadoor-

Yetman, and Dr. Svetlana Kotelnikova.

Previous results show that fecal coliform indicators and opportunistic pathogens are present in the coastal waters of Grenada. The inappropriate deposition of sewage has led to the introduction of drug-resistant organisms into coastal waters and St. John’s Bay was shown to be a source of antibiotic resistant pathogens.

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of indicators and occurrence of antibiotic resistant indicator bacteria (E. coli and E. faecalis) in the coastal environment of St. George, Grenada. The frequency and percentage of compliance of the monitored coastal waters with the recreational water quality standards of Grenadian Bureau of standards (GBS), Environmental protection

ETU Team: Dr.Kotelnikova, B. Patterson, V. Amadi, A. Bahadoor-Yetman, and B. Nelson


20

agency (EPA) and World health organization (WHO) standards will be elucidated for years 2006-2010.

The assessment and implementation of recreational water quality standards is important. The EPA standard defines a maximum of 35 cells of Enterococcus fecalis per 100 ml and 200 cells of fecal coliforms per 100 ml in this water source. The percentage of sampling occasions when numbers of indicators exceed the EPA limits for Enterococcus fecalis since 2006 are represented in Figure 1.

Currently, we have isolated 180 strains of bacterial indicators from the above-mentioned bays that will be tested for antibiotic susceptibility to 40 antibiotic drugs, to access the numbers of resistant organisms in the coastal water and therefore potential risks of antibiotic-resistance gene transfer.

This will further allow for the determination of a link between the observed patterns of antibiotic-resistance and the antibiotics that are commonly used in Grenada.

The occurrence range of E. coli and E. faecalis isolated from the coastal

environment in St. George’s, Grenada - Grand Anse Beach (GAB); Prickly Bay, Lanse Aux Epine (PB); True Blue Bay (TBB); and Black Sand Beach (BSB) will be used as an indication of water safety level. The observed resistance patterns will be compared to the sets of antibiotics commonly used at the Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Pennsylvania, USA.

The information will be collected from tropical sea coastal environments, documented, analyzed, and reported to Mr. Andre Worme, Chief Environmental Health Officer of the Ministry of Health, Grenada. The environmental monitoring will also help to control the coastal environments of our tropical paradise. The results of the project may be used by the people of Grenada to convince the respective officials and business men to invest in treatment plants / facilities.

The project serves to train MD/MSc candidates from SGU in water chemistry, environmental bacteriology, and marine microbiology, and assist with laboratory-based education for an MSc degree in Microbiology.

Watershed patterns and anthropogenic factors affecting variability of water quality in the unique environment of a tropical island will be described. The SGU GSP Small Research Grant Initiative is acknowledged for the funding.

Increase in a population, a number of sea vessels, antibiotics used as anti-fouling coating, amounts of urban runoff, and human waste pollution in the coastal waters of Grenada have to be considered to protect marine areas including coral reefs and

Figure 1


21

mangroves from inflow of carriers of genes of antibiotic resistance. The marine habitat represents one of the major factors for the sustainability of the tourist industry on the island.

True Blue Flag Campaigns will be applied to most of the frequently visited hotels and marinas of Grenada, to engage assistance from local businesses along with the St. George’s University monitoring efforts. An ongoing effort to provide environmental education that targets local communities, yachting visitors, businessmen and waste management groups will contribute to further improvements.

Submitted by Svetlana V. Kotelnikova Aví A.T. Bahadoor -Yetman

Victor A. Amadi

5.7 Marine Research Related Activities

Protected Area Development

Dr. Morrall has continued her involvement with Protected Area planning and this year has been a great one for Protected Area development in Grenada.

Dr. Morrall worked on the National Implementation Support Partnership (NISP) committee this year to prepare materials on the National Protected Area Systems plan for submission to cabinet in spring 2010. These plans were officially approved shortly thereafter.

The Sandy Island Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area (MPA) was officially launched in late July and just over a month later in early September the Moliniere-Beausejour MPA was launched. The Honourable Tillman Thomas, a host of senior

government officials and other dignitaries spoke at the launch ceremonies. Great things are expected for Grenada’s MPAs.

Dr. Morrall continues to work on the MPA Co-management committee. In June of 2010 Dr. Morrall participated in a two week training session for twenty MPA Wardens. Four MPA wardens are now employed and are active in the MPAs in Carriacou and Grenada.

In late August Dr. Dominique Roby presented the draft management plan for the Moliniere-Beausejour MPA and implementation of the plan has recently begun.

Dr. Morrall has recently been involved in the consultations of the Management Plan for the Perseverance-Beausejour Area (a terrestrial Protected Area) which has been drawn up by Bonnie Rusk, a WINDREF Research Fellow.

Dr. Morrall continues to work closely with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in a range of their Eastern Caribbean Protected Area projects.

Other Initiatives and Involvement

Dr. Morrall assisted and supported Mr. Craig Berg and Mr. Shawn Miller from the Milwaukee County Zoological Gardens and Ms. Billie Harrison from the Racine Zoological Gardens respectively during four field research visits to Grenada over the past year. Their studies are continuing into the populations of frogs and snakes in Grenada, including the critically endangered Grenada Frog (Pristimantis euphronides). During night research expeditions a range of frog


22

species were surveyed and swabbed; these samples are being analysed at the Zoological Society of London.

Grenada’s component of the ‘Reducing Marine Litter in the Wider Caribbean’ project began in earnest in September 2010 with Mr. Tyrone Buckmire hired as the project manager. Phase one of the project is targeting eight local schools to begin raising awareness in the students and among the teachers. As part of this project, Dr. Morrall presented on ‘Marine Litter Alleviation in Grenada’ at a side meeting at the 63rd meeting of the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute in Puerto Rico in November 2010.

Along with Dr. Easter-Pilcher and Mr. Steve Nimrod, Dr. Morrall recently supported the development of the following

grant ‘Modelling sea level rise impacts on mangrove distribution and use by migratory birds in Grenada’. This grant was submitted by the Grenada Fund for Conservation to the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act.

Early in 2010 Dr. Morrall submitted supporting documents for funding applications made by the Sustainable Grenadines Project for ‘Strengthening of Reef Management in the Grenada Bank’ (successfully funded by National Fish and Wildlife Foundation in 2010) and ‘Developing a Frame Work for a Comprehensive Marine Multi Use Zoning Plan for the Grenadine Islands (successfully funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in 2010).

Dr. Morrall is currently serving on the Grenada board for the Sustainable Financing and Management of Eastern Caribbean Marine Ecosystem Project along with representatives from the Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders. For this she has attended a number of consultations and workshops and is regularly reviewing documents for this project.

Dr. Morrall coordinated Grenada’s component of the Ocean Conservancies International Coastal Cleanup. Cleanups by schools, businesses and community groups took place over an eight week period in September and October. Data collected during these Cleanup activities has been submitted for inclusion in the Ocean Conservancy International Report.

Submitted by Clare Morrall, PhD

Grenada frog, Pristimantis euphronides cur-rently on the ICUN Red List classified as en-dangered. Photo taken by Clare Morral 15 No-vember 2010, 750 m above sea level on Mount St. Catherine, Grenada.


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5.8 Baseline Coral Reef Monitoring Program for Sandy Island Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area Mooring Buoy Installation Project

A total of eleven dive-boat moorings were recently installed during the months of July and August, 2010 at the newly launched Sandy Island/Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area located to the north of Grenada on the sister island of Carriacou. The aim of the moorings installation program was to alleviate some of the wanton or accidental anchor dropping on the coral reefs surrounding the island of Carriacou.

Of the eleven dive-boat moorings installed, eight were selected as part of this study. The remaining three moorings were located at ship wrecks and sites without significant hard coral reef structure. The mooring system used was the Manta Ray anchoring system. This system employ a six to eight foot metal rod which is hammered into the seabed using a hydraulic system to which a shackle and rope is attached and finally a surface marker (Figures 1 and 2).

The geographic location of the study sites was recorded using a Garmin GPSmap 76X handheld GPS receiver . Combinations of systematic random sampling techniques were utilized for this survey. Two ten metre transects (lead lined rope) were laid parallel to the shoreline or in a north-south direction, depending on the benthic topography approximately five to ten metres away from the mooring anchor at the sea floor. At every one metre along the transect, a photo of the benthic substrate was taken using a digital camera (Canon SD 1100 and Nikon E7900). The photos were taken approximately one metre above the benthic substrate. The photos were then filed, sorted and entered into the

Jerry Mitchell documenting algae coverage

Figure 1 8’ metal rod with shackle & rope

Figure 2 Surface marker


24

Coral Point Count (CPCe) software for analysis. The photos were overlaid with ten random points using the program setting which incorporates the entire image (Figure 3). The substrate beneath each random point was identified and recorded. A Microsoft Excel extension is built into the software which enables the user to produce frequency

statistics and other mathematical outputs.

A total of sixteen (16) ten metre long transects were laid at eight selected sites (Figure 4), resulting in three hundred and sixty (360) photos overall with an aggregate of three thousand six hundred (3,600) random points. The depth range of the study sites was between three metres (3m) and fifteen metres (15m) deep, with varying benthic topography including boulder formation, patch reef and reef walls. The benthic landscape of the sample sites is dominated by macro algae which is an amalgamation of several species of algae (Fig. 6.-13.). Algae percent-cover ranged from 32% to 64% followed by live coral (hard/stony coral) percent cover with a range of 3% to 32%. Other coral species such as

Gorgonians, together with non-living substrate accounted for the remaining fraction. The site with the highest macro algae cover was Mabouya South with 64% while sample site Lighthouse had the greatest

Figure 3 Screen shot of the CPCe program with random points overlaid

Figure 4 Map indicating location of sample site minus the sisters rocks

MarSIS GIS Habitat Map of Carriacou


25

live coral coverage of 32%.

The results from the survey indicate a significantly high percent cover of macro algae (50%), which can be used as an indicator of overall coral reef health and water condition (nutrient content, temperature, salinity, and pH). Generally, degrading reefs often undergo a phase shift in which the abundance of corals declines, and the composition of macroalgae changes, with an increase in abundance of larger, fleshy (corticated) macroalgae (McCook 1999). These algal dominated reefs usually have lower fish stocks, less tourism appeal and coral biodiversity, and there is widespread scientific, management and public concern that such apparent degradation is the result of human impacts (McCook 1999). The data indicates a slow phase shift in the composition of the benthic community, from a coral reef dominated system to macroalgae overtime.

There are no rivers on the island of Carriacou so significant nutrient loading is presumably low and restricted to the rain season (June – December). One can allude to other factors that may contribute to the increase in algal cover; and high algae cover is also linked to low herbivorous fish populations. Although this study did not look at fish populations, from field observations, there was a noticeable absence of larger herbivores (parrot fish species) and other grazers.

The absence of parrotfish species on the coral around the study sites may be linked to fishing pressure. According to 2005 statistics from the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Grenada, landings of parrot fish

species accounted for 17% of overall landings in Carriacou and 36% of all demersal species landed at Carriacou. These statistics show that significant fishing pressure is exerted on the species and may contribute to its low appearance on the reefs.

It is hoped that the newly established Sandy Island/Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area will aid in reducing factors which contribute to algal overgrowth. In particular, fishing pressure within the protected area boundaries will be reduced and the installation of dive vessel moorings thereby reducing accidental anchor dropping on coral reefs.

Submitted by Jerry Mitchell WINDREF Research Scientist

5.9 Economic Evaluation Study of Coastal and Near Shore Resources of Carriacou

The aim of this project is to attach a monetary value to the coastal and near shore resources (mangrove forests, seagrass meadow, coral reefs, coastal vegetation and beaches) around Carriacou, using the value transfer methodology. The key objective is to attach a monetary value to the coastal and marine resources of Carriacou. A second objective is to provide government agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) with the necessary tools to guide policy makers when making decisions as they relate to the environment, particularly the marine and coastal environment.

Value transfer involves the adaptation of existing valuation information to new policy contexts where valuation data is absent or limited. For this study the figures used were


26

based on spatial data collected by Ms Kimberly Baldwin (PhD candidate) University of the West Indies Marine Space-use Information System project (MarSIS). The MarSIS project seeks to aid marine space use planning and management in the Grenadines by gathering information on critical habitats, representative marine ecosystems, areas of high aesthetic value and cultural importance, fishing grounds and marine-based tourism, areas of highest human threat, and space use conflicts (CERMES 2006). This data is gathered by various means including satellite imagery, bathymetric charts, and ground truthing.

Table 1 shows a breakdown of Ecosystem Services Valuation (ESV) flows summed across all service types (within the study site) by area occupied by the habitat class. It also give the area in hectares and the average US dollar per hectare per year for each cover type, which when multiplied together give the total ESV flow. The results indicate coral reefs and beaches yield the highest ESV flow

of all the classes accounting for a combined $239,088,000 USD of the total.

Though this monetary figure is high and adds importance to the value of these resources, habitat destruction still occurs in the form of illegal sand mining, improper and illegal fishing practices, harvesting of mangrove for firewood and building material. The effects of some these activities are clearly visible in the form of coastal erosion, increased algal cover on coral reefs, and reduced appearance of certain species of fish on coral reefs.

Submitted by Jerry Mitchell WINDREF Research Scientist

5.10 “Soil Transmitted Helminths” and Streptococci infections among school going children between the ages of 5- 15 years old in the Parish of St. Andrew’s.

This research project is being conducted in St. Andrew’s parish, Grenada. The study focuses on the Incidence of Neglected Tropical Diseases with a specific emphasis on the “Soil Transmitted Helminths” with the aim to tackle the three main helminths,

Ecosystem Type $/ha/yr Total Hec-tares

Total

Coral Reef environs 100,000 1136 113,600,000

Mangrove 37,000 86 3,182,000

Seagrass Meadow 16,283 1109 18,057,847

Beaches 88,000 1426 125,488,000

Salt water swamp 1413 8 11,304

*Mixed Live Bottom 192

*Non Living 2

Total Carriacou Ecosystem Service

Value

$

260,339,151

Table 1. Ecosystem Services values by cover type for Carriacou (Baldwin 2009) *Figures not used in the study

Trevor Noël testing blood samples in WINDREF laboratory


27

hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus), Roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides) and Whipworms (Trichuris trichiura) and the Incidence of Streptococci infections among school going children between the ages of 5- 15 years old in the Parish of St. Andrew’s. To date all fourteen (14) Primary schools in the parish of St. Andrew’s have been included in the study. The schools included are Belair Government, St.Matthew’s Roman Catholic (R.C.), St. Michael’s R.C, Holy Cross R.C., Holy Innocent Anglican, St. Giles Anglican, St. Mary’s R.C., Telescope Government, Paraclete Government, St. Andrew’s R.C., St. Andrew’s Methodist, Tivoli R.C., St. Andrew’s Anglican and Crochu R.C. The anticipated sample size is 750 children. The fecal, throat and blood samples will be observed in the laboratory for helminths (fecal) and Streptococci (throat and blood samples). In addition to this testing, there is an educational component that will provide the primary prevention through multi media mass education.

The protocol for this study was passed and approved through St. George’s University IRB and subsequently passed and approved by the Research Oversight Committee at both the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health. Eleven hundred informed consent forms have been distributed to the schools mentioned above. Within each school the distribution was random with the names being selected using a random number generator.

To date we have received 729 signed informed consent forms, and 729 completed knowledge, attitudes, behavior, and practices (KABP) questionnaires. To date 499 blood samples in 14 schools have been collected and

analyzed. The 729 KABP questionnaires have been analyzed using Microsoft Excel. When the results of all blood, throat, and fecal samples are complete we will investigate possible correlation of these results with the KABP questionnaire.

Educational posters have been designed and produced as part of a mass media sensitization approach. These posters have been distributed in the 14 primary schools as part of the educational component. An informative video is currently under production and will be available electronically via YouTube for the general public to view.

Submitted by Trevor P. Noël, MPH Assistant Director, WINDREF

Sample of a component of the mass media approach (educational poster)


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5.11 Student Satisfaction, Comfort and Self-confidence in a Simulation Lab Practice Session

Simulation, defined as an activity that mimics reality, has been used in both nursing and medical education for many years. The level of simulation can range from simple task trainers and CPR mannequins to high fidelity human patient simulators.

The goal of this project was to provide a short, structured practice session in the University Simulation Lab based on two clinical cases using medium and high fidelity mannequins. After obtaining IRB approval, anonymous pre- and post-simulation data were collected to document the group experience in this pilot session and to help in planning future sessions. Students in Term 5 volunteered to participate by responding to an email from the Investigator. Facilitators for the small group sessions were academically strong medical students who are AHA Advanced Instructors and/or ITLS Instructors,

and who helped design the cases and received prior training in use of simulation equipment and conducting the small group sessions. A total of 54 students attended assigned sessions on Monday October 25, 2010.

Preliminary responses were tabulated using a Likert Scale ranging from 5 (high) to 1(low). From open-ended comments, students consistently found the simulation lab practice session to be a great experience, provided an excellent way to learn, and requested more opportunities for this kind of practice in Terms 4 and 5. The students involved in conducting the research project will assist the faculty investigator to write up the findings and present them at upcoming meetings.

Submitted by TJ McCann, PhD, MPH, T Horan, V Lehman, M Tepas, P Allis,

J Speake

5.12 Implementing Renewable Energy and Preventing Land Degradation: An Intervention in the Nutmeg Industry in Grenada

In 2010, Principal Investigator, Dr. Muge Akpinar-Elci continued a collaborative effort with the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at St. George's University, Grenada Cooperative Nutmeg Association (GCNA), Grenada's Ministry of Agriculture, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institutes for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to develop and implement an intervention in the nutmeg industry in Grenada. This project commenced activities in 2008 and based on preliminary findings was awarded funding in the amount of $50,000 USD by the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program (GEF SGP) through the United Nations Office

Medical Student Instructors at the Sim Lab practice session for Term 5 students pose next to Kristin, one of the human patient simulator mannequins. From left to right: Ms. Martha Tepas, Mr. Terrence Horan, Ms. Valerie Lehman, Ms. Paget Allis. Not Shown: Dr. Theresa McCann and Mr. John Speake,


29

for Project Services (UNOPS) at the end of 2009, and in 2010 received contributions in excess of $64,000 USD from the CDC/NIOSH. The project activities include:

Increasing nutmeg production and addressing land degradation

Expanding occupational health assessment of workers in the Gouyave processing plant

Developing workforce capacity in occupational health and safety training

Introducing renewable energy to nutmeg processing

In the first quarter of 2010, former nutmeg agricultural lands were observed to be undergoing land degradation through the loss of top soil and vegetation, land slippage and slide as well as heavy run off during rains. The resulting loss of biodiversity compromised agricultural production and road and housing infrastructure. Farmers of these lands were contacted and encouraged to replant their nutmeg plantations. By the end of the third quarter of 2010, around 40 acres of land were replanted with more than 1700 nutmeg trees and 1500 citrus, banana and cinnamon plants in an activity that included more than 22 farmers. In addition to receiving the trees, farmers were supported in their land preparation as well as given a

stipend for their participation in the project. These lands will be revisited in one year to observe the agricultural production as well as the impact on addressing land degradation.

In June, with support from CDC/NIOSH, an occupational exposure assessment was conducted by an industrial hygienist Dr. Greg Day. Following up on the initial occupational health assessment of workers in 2009, in July 2010 workers at the Gouyave processing plant were screened for several occupational health problems by using spirometery and skin prick allergy testing.

In July, workforce development in the form of occupational health and safety training was conducted for the workers at the Gouyave processing plant. Workers were made aware of the importance of health and safety in the workplace as well as hazards associated with nutmeg processing and their

Occupational health and safety training at the Nutmeg plant

Nutmeg project team meeting with local farmers in Grenville

Health assessment activities at the Nutmeg plant


30

health outcomes. For the first time in the history of this plant, workers were trained on measures to reduce the hazards as well as prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.

Another development which occurred in this year was the development of a solar powered dehydrator to support the drying process of nutmegs at the plant. This particular intervention is expected to reduce the level of dust and mold identified in the conventional drying process. Initial experimentation revealed that the process of solar drying reduced the drying time by 50% without altering the standards of quality when compared with the conventional process currently practiced at the nutmeg plant. At the end of the year 2010, the solar power dehydrator for the plant was manufactured and the site is currently being prepared for installation. Upon completion of installation training on the solar drying process and operation of the solar dryer will be conducted.

This year has been a period of significant development for this project. In addition to expanding the health assessment of workers and the work environment, nutmeg production is being promoted, land degradation is being addressed in the nutmeg fields, the industry

will derive benefit from the use of renewable energy in nutmeg processing, and worker's capacity continue to be developed through training in health and safety. This project which first began in 2008 with the original intention of making a significant and positive impact on the nutmeg industry is realizing that intention in 2010. In 2011, the project is expected to continue its workforce development activities through advanced training in occupational health and safety, evaluation of the impact of the use of renewable energy in nutmeg processing, with the expected result of increased productivity of nutmeg plantations, reduction in environmental degradation, and continued work toward improving the health and safety of workers in the nutmeg industry.

Submitted by M. Akpinar-Elci MD, MPH, S. Bidaisee DVM, MSPH, A. Larsen,

O.C. Elci, MD, PhD, D. Roberts, MES, D. Burkhardt, MD, PhD

5.13 Disaster Management in Grenada: Northumbria University Student Research

With collaboration between WINDREF and the Disaster Development Centre at Northumbria University, UK, two postgraduate students arrived in Grenada this summer to conduct dissertation research for their MSc degree in Disaster Management and Sustainable Development. Ryann Bresnahan (USA) and Joella Lynch (UK) spent seven weeks travelling throughout Grenada and Carriacou, consulting with disaster management and healthcare workers to look at how the island prepares for natural hazards. Prior to the start of research, both studies were approved by the Institutional Review Board at

Press conference and certificate of appreciation presentation ceremony for participating nutmeg farmers


31

SGU, the Ethics Committee at Northumbria University, and the Research Oversight Committee at the Office of the Prime Minister. Ms. Lynch’s research was also approved by the Research Oversight Committee at the Ministry of Health.

Ms. Bresnahan’s work focused on the role of decentralisation of disaster management in Grenada. With the guidance of the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA), questionnaires were distributed to members of district disaster committees throughout the island. These questionnaires sought to identify and assess the ways in which the Grenadian national government supports parish- and local-level disaster management, with a special look at what has worked well, what areas need improvement, and the difficulties inherent with decentralisation in small island states. Meetings were held with 11 of the 17

district disaster committees, and 97 questionnaires were completed of an approximate n=215.

Several themes have emerged from data analysis: on average, district disaster committee members feel that NaDMA listens to their concerns and takes them seriously (with 45% reporting NaDMA listens “Well” or “Very Well”, as opposed to 27% reporting “Not Well at All” or “Somewhat Well”). However, despite this attention, a majority of district disaster committees do not feel confident in their abilities to respond to and recover from future disasters (with 56% reporting “Not Confident at All” or “Not So Confident”, as opposed to 18% reporting “Confident” or “Very Confident”). The main reason for this state of unpreparedness is lack of resources, though running a close second is lack of volunteerism: district disaster committee members are not paid for their work, and there is no perceived sense of urgency to prepare since Hurricane Ivan struck six years earlier.

Twelve key participant interviews were also conducted with disaster management

Mr. Jones, Joella Lynch, Ryann Bresnahan, Mr. Lyons, (NaDMA Community Programme Officers)

Mr. Walters (NaDMA), Ryann Bresnahan, Joella Lynch, Calum Macpherson, Trevor Noël


32

professionals to gain insight into how they feel decentralisation has impacted their work. Excerpts from these interviews will also be included in the final report to provide a well-balanced view of disaster management in Grenada. The final product will be made available to WINDREF and a summary of recommendations will be forwarded to NaDMA, the Office of the Prime Minister and the District Disaster Committee Coordinators.

Ms. Lynch’s research focused on the involvement of the Grenadian public health sector in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). The objectives of this research were to explore the disaster preparedness of the Grenadian public health sector and to explore the relationship between the Grenadian public health sector and disaster management agencies in Grenada. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with people involved in disaster management, the health sector or a combination of both. A total of 27 interviews were conducted. This research was an exploratory study as no previous research addressing this area had been

identified. Qualitative analysis is currently being carried out on the interviews. The results of this research will be used in Ms. Lynch’s dissertation, a copy of which will be forwarded WINDREF; a summary of the findings and recommendations will also be submitted to NaDMA and the Ministry of Health.

Both researchers would like to extend their gratitude to the WINDREF staff for their continued support, and to the existing relationship between St. George’s University and Northumbria University that allowed this research opportunity to take place. As the pilot students of this new partnership between Northumbria’s Disaster and Development Centre and WINDREF, they wish future students success in working with Grenadian society to increase awareness of disaster risk reduction measures and build resilience island-wide.

Submitted by R. Bresnahan, J. Lynch

6.0 2010 Grants

We would like to thank all of the donors who have made WINDREF’s work possible in 2010

The Bartholomew J. Lawson Foundation for Children, in partnership with Reach Grenada, for the St. Andrew’s Parish Helminths and Rheumatic Fever Project

Dr. Mary-Jeanne Kreek, Kreek Laboratory, Rockefeller University, NY, for the support of the “Genetic Correlation of Addictive Diseases” project

The Lounsbery Foundation, for their continued support of the Streptococcal Program (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

Joella Lynch, Calum Macpherson, Ryann Bresnahan, Trevor Noël


33

The Nature Conservancy, for their continued support of the Marine Protected Areas Program, Grenada

Rotary International, for support of the “Baseline Survey – Princess Alice Hospital Programs, St. Andrew’s, Grenada”

St. George’s University, for ongoing support, including the Small Research Grant Initiative which has helped some WINDREF scientists

The Teasdale-Corti Foundation for the grant supporting the Caribbean EcoHealth Programme (CEHP)

The World Bank (for the Canadian POPs Trust Fund) for the Caribbean Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Study

Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program (GEF SGP) for support of the Nutmeg factory project

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institutes for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for support of the Nutmeg factory project

US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute (JGI) for support of the Pilot Microbial Genome annotation project

International Development Research Centre (IDRC) for support of the “Ethical Issues and Challenges in Global Population Health Research Partnerships” project

Jonas Browne & Hubbard (Grenada) Ltd. for support of the Photovoltaic Power Generation Program

Kirsten Rausing for support of the Sport for Health Program

6.1 Ongoing externally funded projects

There are currently 7 ongoing funded projects with a total value of $2,651,217.

Noël, T.P. Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and Rheumatic Fever in St. Andrew’s Parish, Grenada: a project to prevent/eliminate helminthic and rheumatic fever infections among children (5-15 years of age). Bartholomew J. Lawson Foundation for Children. $41,903. 2009 - 2011.

Morrall, C. Reducing marine Litter in the Wider Caribbean: Developing and Implementing Best Waste Management Practices. Gulf & Caribbean Fisheries Institute, Inc. (GCFI). $19,500. 2010 - 2011.

Akpinar-Elci, M. Implementing Renewable Energy and Preventing Land Degradation: An Intervention in the Nutmeg Industry in Grenada. Global Environment Facility Small Grants Program (GEF SGP) on behalf of the three GEF Implementing Agencies –United Nations Development Program (UNDP), United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the World Bank. $50,000. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) $64,313. 2010 - 2012.

Forde, M. Caribbean EcoHealth Programme (CEHP): public and environmental health interactions in food and water-borne illnesses.

$‐

$500,000

$1,000,000

$1,500,000

$2,000,000

$2,500,000

$3,000,000

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Total

USD

Year

Ongoing Externally Funded Projects


34

Teasdale-Corti Foundation. $1,585,330. 2008 - 2012.

Forde, M. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP). World Bank. $275,000. 2008 - 2010.

VASES-MAPPES: Vocationalization of Animal Sector Education: MSc Animal Product Processing, Entrepreneurship & Safety. EDULINK: ACP-EU Cooperation Programe in Higher Education. $730,000. 2008 - 2011.

Forde, Martin. Ethical Issues and Challenges in Global Population Health Research Partnerships. IRDC 103460-093. $67,700 CAD 2010 - 2012

6.2 2010 Grant submissions

This year 9 grant applications were submitted to external funding agencies for a total value of $4,479,109.

Cox Macpherson, C., Akpinar-Elci, M. Bioethical Analysis of the Health Impacts of Climate Change in the Caribbean. Wellcome Trust Biomedical Ethics in Developing Countries Small Project Grants. £29,998. March 2010.

Macpherson, C.N.L, Noel, T.P., Pointier, J.P., Elci, O.C., Akpinar-Elci, M., and Larsen, A. Investigation of the current status and proposed elimination of Schistosoma mansoni and soil transmitted helminths in St. Lucia, West Indies. PAHO. $121,317. April 2010.

AMREF/KEMU/SGU Center of excellence in Health Systems Research. Consortium of National Health Research (CNHR). $1,447,661. April 2010.

Fakoya, F. Prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Exposure in Grenada. NIH. $99,759. May 2010.

Sealy, H. Establishment of a Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

(REEF) in Grenada, ACP-EU Energy Facility (10th EDF). $1,921,481. July 2010.

Akpinar-Elci, M., Rodrigo, S., Elci, O. Prevalence and risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases in Grenada. NIH $108,000. October 2010.

Samuel, H., Sealy, H., Akpinar-Elci, M., Larsen, A. Preparation of Public Awareness Instructional Package Tools. Caribbean Sustainable Energy Program (CSEP) $139,970. October 2010.

Forde, Martin. Ethical Issues and Challenges in Global Population Health Research Partnerships. IRDC 103460-093. $67,700 CAD

Sealy, H. Akpinar-Elci, M., Cox, C., Cashman, A., Sale, P., Metcalfe, C. Adapting to Climate Change in Caribbean Small Island States. IDRC $500,000 CAD, UNU-INWEH $10,000 CAD, Trent University (IWS) $15,000 CAD. November 2010

$‐

$2,000,000

$4,000,000

$6,000,000

$8,000,000

$10,000,000

$12,000,000

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Total

USD

Year

Projects Submitted for External Funding


35

7.0 Past, Present, and Future Research Projects

7.1 Past, Present, and Future Research Projects: Non-communicable Diseases

Angiotensin converting enzyme and angiotensinogen gene polymorphisms in the Grenadian population: relation to hypertension

Development of a decision rule for screening Obstructive Sleep Apnea and its epidemologic relevance to the people of Grenada

Prevalence and associated risk factors of hypertension in a sample population of native Caribbean’s in Grenada, West Indies

Assessing the prevalence of diabetic complications by examining type I and type II adult diabetics for signs of retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy and dermatological changes associated with poor glucose control within the native Caribbean population of Grenada

Hypertension management and control in two Caribbean countries

Assessment of the effectiveness of broad-spectrum treatment to children with protozoan and nemathelminthic parasitic infections on diarrhea and school attendance

The effects of iron-deficiency anemia on cognition and behavior in infants

Diurnal variation of urinary endothelin-I and blood pressure: related hypertension

Alcohol consumption in Grenada

The incidence and mortality of cancer in Grenada over the ten year period: 1990-1999

The prevalence of abnormal haemoglobin traits in Grenadian secondary school adolescents

Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices of sickle cell anemia in Grenadian primary and secondary school children

Decompression sickness among the indigenous fishing population in Grenada: Assessing the burden of disease

WINDREF / SGU Hurricane Relief

Spice Research Program

Sulfate-reducing bacteria in oxidized freshwater of tropical mangroves

Novel antibiotics from tropical marine environments: drug development in Grenada

Study of the mutacin C-7A

Gram-negative bacteria isolated from aquatic environments of Grenada (61.4°W, 12.0°N), West Indies

Identification of bacteria producing antibiotics isolated from deep marine biofilms of Grenada

SGU Environmental Testing Unit (ETU)

Post-hurricane water surveillance in problematic areas of Grenada

Evaluation of the relocation potential for villagers residing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Study of the calls of the spotted hyena at feeding

Survey on the attitude of villagers in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda towards the threat of lions, leopards and hyenas

Epidemiology of human injuries resulting from wildlife in ten villages within Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Rural Ugandan village perspective on lion, leopard and hyena conservation


36

Epidemiology of human injuries by wildlife in six villages within Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Prevalence of Campylobacter fetus subspecies venerealis and other microorganisms in the reproductive tracts of cattle from the southern region of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Antimicrobial properties of skin secretions from Eleutherodactylus johnstonei on bacteriological isolates

Examination and analysis of prostate cancer in Grenada

A Church-based intervention to improve hypertension prevention and control among women in Grenada

Occupational Health Problems among Nutmeg Factories Workers, SGU Small Research Grant Initiative

7.2 Past, Present, and Future Research Projects: Infectious Diseases

Investigation of the prevalence of SIV in the mona monkey (Cercopithcus mona) in Grenada

Seroprevalence of HIV-I and HIV-II in pregnant women in Grenada, W.I. – their knowledge of AIDS and their exposure hazards to the virus

A cross sectional study of the current status of Schistosoma mansoni in St. Lucia by field surveys and supplementary data collection

Identification and characterization of hantaviruses among the mammal population of Grenada

HIV/AIDS health education and evaluation program in Grenada

The seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in a population of pregnant women and cats in Grenada, West Indies

The efficiency of diagnosing women of Toxoplasma gondii using PCR techniques in comparison with ELISA

Dengue virus in Grenada: seroprevalence and associated risk factors

A current appraisal of dengue virus in Grenada – serotype analysis and vector assessment

A site receptivity study determining the threat of reintroduction of malaria into Grenada through the study of Anopheline spp. mosquito vectors

Chlamydial infection among STD clinic attenders in Grenada

Fever in Grenada

Mosquitoes and tourism in Grenada

Effectiveness of a formula feeding/weaning intervention program in preventing transmission of HTLV-1 from seropositive mothers to newborns in Grenada

A multi-center longitudinal research study of the behavioral significance of the prevalence of HIV-1 infection in pregnant women and their babies on the islands of Grenada and St. Vincent

A multi-center longitudinal research study of the ethical analysis of informed consent of the prevalence of HIV-1 infection in pregnant women and their babies on the islands of Grenada and St. Vincent


37

Determining the role of IL-15 in mediating function of viral-specific CD8+ T cells in the myelopathogenesis of HTLV-1: symptomatic versus asymptomatic patients

Intestinal protozoan infections in 6-12 year old children in Grenada

Intestinal helminth infections in 6-12 year old children in Grenada

The prevalence of intestinal parasites in school children in rural Guyana

The prevalence of filariasis and its effects on children aged 8-14 in the central corentyne region of rural Guyana

The prevalence of streptococcal infection in school children aged 5 – 15 years in Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique

Studies examining the elimination of lymphatic filariasis as a public health problem in Guyana

Seroprevalence of heartworm infection in dogs in Grenada

Dengue in Grenada

Assessing the potential risk factors of dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever in the tri-island state of Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique

A comparative study to find out if there is an association between sexual practices and knowledge in adult populations of Botswana and Grenada with the prevalence of HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS in rural Botswana differentiating between informing and educating

Evaluating the level of perceived fear and desensitization towards HIV/AIDS in Botswana

Rheumatic Fever in Grenada

Streptococcal program in St. Vincent

Isolating T cells from Rheumatic Fever positive blood: immunofluorescent assay of T lymphocytes via fluorescently labeled monoclonal antibodies

Possible genetic predisposition to Rheumatic Fever: demonstrating the inheritance fashion of non-HLA B lymphocyte alloantigen D8/17, a marker for Rheumatic Fever

ELISA antibody titres against group A streptococcal M protein moiety and cell wall N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine in Grenadian Rheumatic Fever patients

Evaluating the effectiveness of educational methods in the prevention of Rheumatic Fever and knowledge, awareness and practices

Prevalence of intestinal helminth infections in rural Grenadian school children

Cystic echinococcosis in Morocco and Uganda

Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis in Guyana Program

Neglected Tropical Diseases and Rheumatic Fever in St. Andrew’s Parish, Grenada: A project to prevent/eliminate helminthic and rheumatic fever infections among children (5-15 years of age)


38

7.3 Past, Present, and Future Research Projects: Unique Projects

Characterization of five amphibians inhabiting Grenada and subsequent isolation and antimicrobial assay of potential antibiotics derived from their skin

Mona monkey studies in West Africa

Investigation of medicinal plants in Grenada

Use of medicinal plants in Grenada

Medicinal drugs from the sea: what do Grenada’s waters have to offer?

Beekeeping in Grenada: effects of the mite Varroa jacobsoni and its control

Effects of Grenadian medicinal plants on endemic microbial causes of diarrhoeal diseases

The neurobiological basis of hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure

Stimulation of angiotensin 4 in cardiac fibroblasts activates matrix metalloproteinases through MAP kinases pathways: A model for astrocytes

REM sleep and memory

End of life care in Grenada

Novel antibiotics from tropical marine environments

Genetic correlates of the addictive diseases: cocaine, alcohol, and marijuana addiction– Grenada

An investigation of pediatric botanical medicine for acute respiratory infections

Efficacy of phage therapy using an in vitro biofilm wound model system

Degradation of 7 keto cholesterol by Xenohydrolases

Ecological survival properties of pelagic and benthic indicator microorganisms from the St. John’s river outflow in Grenada

The public health importance of dogs, Grand Anse, Grenada

Greater occipital nerve zones for treatment of occipital neuralgia

Photovoltaic power generation program

Review of current biomedical waste management practices in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Countries

Microbial diversity in the iron-oxidizing biofilms of soda springs in Grenada

Circadian cycle of iron-oxidation in warm soda springs in St. Andrew’s, Grenada, West Indies

Do the microorganisms in the soda spring water derive energy from the oxidation of manganese?

Novel marine bacteria and their antagonistic properties against medically relevant biofilms

Physiological characterization of novel marine bacterial species isolated off Grenada

Characterization of marine sponge-associated bacteria and cytotoxic activity of sponge extracts towards human cancer cells

Examining HIV/AIDS provider stigma: assessing regional concerns in the islands of the Eastern Caribbean

Knowledge, attitudes and practice survey for women (baseline survey)

Caribbean EcoHealth Programme: public and environmental health interactions in food and water-borne illnesses (CEHP)

Persistent Organic Pollutants

Implementing Renewable Energy and Preventing Land Degradation: An Intervention in the Nutmeg Industry in Grenada

Effects of prenatal ethanol exposure on the role of matrix-metalloproteinase mediated neural crest cells in an avian model


39

Assessing Medical Students’ Behavior, Perception, and Knowledge of UV Exposure and Sunscreen Application in the Caribbean (Grenada)

Basic Life Support Knowledge and Skill Retention in Pre-Clinical Undergraduate Medical Students

Student Satisfaction, Comfort and Self-confidence in a Simulation Lab Practice Session

Reducing marine Litter in the Wider Caribbean: Developing and Implementing Best Waste Management Practices

Ethical Issues and Challenges in Global Population Health Research Partnerships

Disaster Management in Grenada: Northumbria University Student Research

Baseline Coral Reef Monitoring Program for Sandy Island Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area Mooring Buoy Installation Project

Genome annotation in microorganisms and metagenomic libraries as a part of an undergraduate curriculum

Molecular identification of marine Vibrio isolated in Grenada

Occurrence of Antibiotic-resistant Fecal Indicators in Coastal waters of Southern Grenada

8.0 International Conferences Sponsored in Grenada

Regional Heteroptera Identification Workshop. The USDA-APHIS, Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) CARICOM Secretariat with technical expertise provided by the Florida Association for Volunteer Action in the Caribbean and the Americas (FAVACA) executed this workshop with a focus on pests of quarantine importance of the Order

Heteroptera. WINDREF, 4 - 8 October 2010

9.0 Abstracts/Presentations at International Conferences Invited Plenary/Workshop/Roundtable/Professional Meetings/CME

Mitchell, J., Presentation of 3 Valuation methodologies for SE Grenada (and environs), OAS IABIN REEfFix/Government of Grenada Workshop, Wednesday 10 February, oral presentation.

Naraine, R., and Kotelnikova, S. Unexpected Microbial Diversity Discovered in the Warm Spring in Grenada. St. George’s University and Phi Zeta Honor Society, Research Day, Saturday 27 February 2010, oral presentation

Kotelnikova, S. Safe Paradise Beaches of Grenada. St. George’s University and Phi Zeta Honor Society, Research Day, Saturday 27 February 2010, oral presentation

Kotelnikova, S. Marine Biotechnology Program at the Department of Microbiology, SGU. St. George’s University and Phi Zeta Honor Society, Research Day, Saturday 27 February 2010, oral presentation

Kotelnikova, S. and Bruzell C.K. Novel Marine Bacteria and Their Antagonistic Properties. St. George’s University and Phi Zeta Honor Society, Research Day, Saturday 27 February 2010, poster presentation

Kotelnikova, S., Smith, T., Samuel, B., Garraway, D., Jageval, S., Naraine, R., Hallback, L., Pedersen, K. Light-dependent Electron Shuffling in Iron-oxidizing Biofilm in Unique Tropical Warm Soda Spring. St. George’s University and Phi Zeta Honor Society, Research Day, Saturday 27 February 2010, poster presentation.


40

Naraine, R., Kotelnikova, S., and Pedersen, K. Microbial Dominance within Spring Biofilm. St. George’s University and Phi Zeta Honor Society, Research Day, Saturday 27 February 2010, poster presentation.

Akpinar-Elci M., Bidaisee S., Peters S., Elci O.C. Respiratory Health Problems among Nutmeg Processing Workers. American Thoracic Society Congress, New Orleans, May 2010.

Rose S., Akpinar-Elci M., Hegamin-Younger C., Elci O.C., The prevalence of Respiratory Symptoms amongst Occupants of Households Affected Flooding in Guyana: The case of Cove & John. International Student Congress of Medical Sciences, The Netherlands, June 2010.

Morrall, C. Pan-Caribbean Reef Restoration Workshop, USAid, and Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory and the University of the West Indies, Jamaica, June 2010.

Akpinar-Elci M., Bidaisee S., Peters S., Byonanibye J., Elci O.C. Occupational Health Problems Among Nutmeg Production Workers: A case from Grenada, The Caribbean. American Public Health Association 138th Annual Meeting, Denver, CO November 6-10, 2010.

Richards C., Akpinar-Elci M., Roopnarine R., Keku E., Elci O.C. Environment related respiratory health problems among veterinary students at St George's University. American Public Health Association 138th Annual Meeting, Denver, CO November 6-10, 2010

Morrall, C. Incorporating climate adaptation into marine turtle conservation: capacity s t r eng then ing fo r p l ann ing and implementation. World Wildlife Fund

(WWF). Puerto Rico. November 2010.

Berg, C.S., Harrison, B.C., Jeremiah, A., and Morrall, C. , The Black-Headed Snake (Tantilla melanocephala) in the Lesser Antilles. The Island Biodiversity: Flora, Fauna and Humans in the Lesser Antilles, Martinique, November 2010

Henderson, R.W., Berg, C.S., Harrison, B.C., Jeremiah, A., and Morrall, C. Tantilla melanocephala (Squamata: Colubridae) on the Grenada Bank: Distribution and Conservation Concerns. The Island Biodiversity: Flora, Fauna and Humans in the Lesser Antilles, Martinique, November 2010

10.0 Publications

10.1 Publications - Books/ Book Chapters

Akpinar-Elci M., Elci O.C. Non-invasive health assessment methods in sick building syndrome. Editor: Abdul-Wahab, S. A. Sick building syndrome in Public Buildings and Workplaces. Springer. 2010 (in print)

Elci O.C., Rodrigo S., Akpinar-Elci M. Epidemiologic investigation methods for sick building syndrome. Editor: Abdul-Wahab, S. A. Sick building syndrome in Public Buildings and Workplaces. Springer. 2010 (in print)

Hlavacek, A., Loukas, M., Escaned, J., Anderson, R.H. Congenital coronary anomalies causing extravascular vessel compression. in: Coronary stenosis. Imaging, structure and physiology. Eds Escaned J, Serruys PW. Europa edition. PCR Publishing, Toulouse. pp 447-456, 2010.


41

Loukas, M., Hlavacek, A., Anderson, R.H. Anatomy and structure of coronary circulation. in: Coronary stenosis. Imaging, structure and physiology. Eds Escaned J, Serruys PW. Europa edition. PCR Publishing, Toulouse. pp 21-30, 2010.

10.2 Publications - Journal

Apaydin, N., Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Duparc, F. Review of the surgical anatomy of the axillary nerve and the anatomic basis of its iatrogenic and traumatic injury. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Mar;32(3):193-201. Epub 2009 Nov 16. Review.

Gilloteaux, J., Jamison, J.M., Neal, D.R., Loukas, M., Doberzstyn, T., Summers, J.L. Cell damage and death by autoschizis in human bladder (RT4) carcinoma cells resulting from treatment with ascorbate and menadione. Ultrastruct Pathol. 2010 May;34(3):140-60.

Hlavacek, A., Loukas, M., Spicer, D., Anderson, R.H. Anomalous origin and course of the coronary arteries. Cardiol Young. 2010 Dec;20(S3):20-25.

Khalili, M., Shoja, M.M., Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Alakbarli, F., Newman, A.J. Illustration of the heart and blood vessels in medieval times. Int J Cardiol. 2010 Aug 6;143(1):4-7. Epub 2010 Jan 8.

Loukas, M., Akiyama, M., Shoja, M.M., Yalçin, B., Tubbs, R.S., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. John Browne (1642-1702): anatomist and plagiarist. Clin Anat. 2010 Jan;23(1):1-7.

Loukas, M., Colborn, G.L., Tubbs, R.S. John Elias Skandalakis, MD, PhD, FACS (1920-2009). Clin Anat. 2010 Apr;23(3):332-4.

Loukas, M., El-Zammar, D., Tubbs, R.S., Apaydin, N., Louis, R.G., Jr, Wartman, C., Shoja, M.M. A review of the T2 segment of the brachial plexus. Singapore Med J. 2010 Jun;51(6):464-7.

Loukas, M., Klaassen, Z., Merbs, W., Tubbs, R.S., Gielecki, J., Zurada, A. A review of the thoracic splanchnic nerves and celiac ganglia. Clin Anat. 2010 Jul;23(5):512-22. Review.

Loukas, M., Klaassen, Z., Tubbs, R.S., Derderian, T., Paling, D., Chow, D., Patel, S., Anderson, R.H. Anatomical observations of the moderator band. Clin Anat. 2010 May;23(4):443-50.

Loukas, M., Lanteri, A., Ferrauiola, J., Tubbs, R.S., Maharaja, G., Shoja, M.M., Yadav, A., Rao, V.C. Anatomy in ancient India: a focus on the Susruta Samhita. J Anat. 2010 Dec;217(6):646-50. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7580.2010.01294.x. Epub 2010 Sep 30.

Loukas, M., Pennell, C., Tubbs, R.S., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Sir John Struthers (1823-1899) and his ligament and arcade. Neurosurgery. 2010 Jun;66(6):1170-3; discussion 1173.

Loukas, M., Saad, Y., Tubbs, R.S., Shoja, M.M. The heart and cardiovascular system in the Qur'an and Hadeeth. Int J Cardiol. 2010 Apr 1;140(1):19-23. Epub 2009 Aug 25Review.

Loukas, M., Shah, R., Tubbs, S., Merbs, W. Multiple variations of the hepatobiliary vasculature including a splenomesenteric trunk. Singapore Med J. 2010 Jan;51(1):e6-8.

Loukas, M., Sullivan, A., Tubbs, R.S., Weinhaus, A.J., Derderian, T., Hanna, M. Chiari's network: review of the literature. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Dec;32(10):895-901. Epub 2010 Mar 3.


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Loukas, M., Tubbs, R.S. Comment on "Locating the arcuate line of Douglas: Is it of surgical significance?". Clin Anat. 2010 Mar;23(2):246.

Patel, R.H, Pedersen, K., and Kotelnikova, S. The Bacteriological Analysis and Health Risks in the Urban Estuary of St. George’s Bay, Grenada, West Indies. Journal of Environmental Health (cover story). Volume, 73, September, 2010, Pp. 22-28.

Pellerin, M., Kimball, Z., Tubbs, R.S., Nguyen, S., Matusz, P., Cohen-Gadol, A.A., Loukas, M. The prefixed and postfixed brachial plexus: a review with surgical implications. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Mar;32(3):251-60. Epub 2010 Jan 20. Review.

Shoja, M.M., Tubbs, R.S., Ardalan, M.R., Loukas, M., Phagava, H., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. A testimony to the history of heart and lung transplantation: English translation of Demikhov's paper, "Transplantation of the Heart, Lungs and other Organs". Int J Cardiol. 2010 Sep 3;143(3):230-4. Epub 2010 Apr 2.

Shoja, M.M., Tubbs, R.S., Ghabili, K., Loukas, M., Oakes, W.J., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Johan Georg Raeder (1889-1959) and paratrigeminal sympathetic paresis. Childs Nerv Syst. 2010 Mar;26(3):373-6. Epub 2009 Aug 25.

Shoja, M.M., Tubbs, R.S., Khalili, M., Khodadoost, K., Loukas, M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Esmail Jorjani (1042-1137) and his descriptions of trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm, and bell's palsy. Neurosurgery. 2010 Aug;67(2):431-4.

Shoja, M.M., Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Shokouhi ,G., Ghabili, K., Agutter, P.S. The sub-peritoneal arterial plexus of Sir William Turner. Ann Anat. 2010 Aug 20;192(4):194-8. Epub 2010 Jun 11. Review.

Stefanoudaki, E., Williams, M. & Harwood, J.L. (2010). Changes in virgin olive oil characteristics during different storage conditions. European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology. 112 (8) 906-914.

Tubbs, R.S., Dixon, J., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Ligament of Barkow of the craniocervical junction: its anatomy and potential clinical and functional significance. J Neurosurg Spine. 2010 Jun;12(6):619-22.

Tubbs, R.S., Dixon, J., Loukas, M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Regional vascular relationships to the foramen ovale: an anatomical study with application to approaches to the external skull base with an emphasis on transcutaneous procedures for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia. J Neurosurg. 2010 Sep;113(3):493-7.

Tubbs, R.S., Dixon, J.F., Loukas, M., Shoja M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Relationship between the internal laryngeal nerve and the triticeal cartilage: a potentially unrecognized compression site during anterior cervical spine and carotid endarterectomy operations. Neurosurgery. 2010 Jun;66(6 Suppl Operative):187-90; discussion 190.

Tubbs, R.S., Griessenauer, C.J., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum: an anatomic study. Neurosurgery. 2010 Feb;66(2):385-8; discussion 388.


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Tubbs, R.S., Griessenauer, C.J., Loukas, M., Zurada, A., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. The enigmatic clival canal: anatomy and clinical significance. Childs Nerv Syst. 2010 Sep;26(9):1207-10. Epub 2010 Mar 6.

Tubbs, R.S., Johnson, P.C., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Anatomical landmarks for localizing the buccal branch of the trigeminal nerve on the face. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Dec;32(10):933-5. Epub 2010 Apr 1.

Tubbs, R.S., Jones, V.L., Loukas, M., Cömert, A., Shoja, M.M., Wellons, J.C,. 3rd, Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Anatomy and landmarks for branches of the brachial plexus: a vade mecum. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Mar;32(3):261-70. Epub 2010 Jan 19. Review.

Tubbs, R.S., Levin, M.R., Loukas, M., Potts, E.A., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Anatomy and landmarks for the superior and middle cluneal nerves: application to posterior iliac crest harvest and entrapment syndromes. J Neurosurg Spine. 2010 Sep;13(3):356-9.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M. Errare humanum est perseverare diabolicum. Clin Anat. 2010 Jan;23(1):128.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Apaydin, N., Cossey, T.D., Yalçin, B., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Correlation between the lengths of the upper limb and cubital tunnel: potential use in patients with proximal ulnar nerve entrapment. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Mar;32(3):239-42. Epub 2009 Nov 27.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Callahan, J.D., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. A novel approach to the upper anterior thoracic spine: a cadaveric 13. feasibility study. J Neurosurg Spine. 2010 Sep;13(3):346-50.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Dixon, J., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Compression of the cervical internal carotid artery by the stylopharyngeus muscle: an anatomical study with potential clinical significance. Laboratory investigation. J Neurosurg. 2010 Oct;113(4):881-4.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., May, W.R., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. A variation of the infraorbital nerve: its potential clinical consequence especially in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia: case report. Neurosurgery. 2010 Sep;67(3 Suppl Operative):E315; discussion E315.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. John Murray Carnochan (1817-1887): the first description of successful surgery for trigeminal neuralgia. J Neurosurg. 2010 Jan;112(1):199-201.

Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Refined and simplified surgical landmarks for the MacCarty keyhole and o rb i tozygomat ic c ran io tomy. Neurosurgery. 2010 Jun;66(6 Suppl Operative):230-3.

Tubbs, R.S., Marshall, T., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. The sublime bridge: anatomy and implications in median nerve entrapment. J Neurosurg. 2010 Jul;113(1):110-2.

Tubbs, R.S., Noordeh, N., Parmar, A., Cömert, A., Loukas, M., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Reliability of Poirier's triangle in localizing the thoracic duct in the thorax. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Oct;32(8):757-60. Epub 2010 May 18.


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Tubbs, R.S., Shoja, M.M., Loukas, M., Oakes, W.J., Cohen-Gadol, A. William Henry Battle and Battle's sign: mastoid ecchymosis as an indicator of basilar skull fracture. J Neurosurg. 2010 Jan;112(1):186-8.

Tubbs, R.S., Stetler, W., Louis, R.G., Jr., Gupta, A.A., Loukas, M., Kelly, D.R., Shoja, M.M., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Surgical challenges associated with the morphology of the spinal accessory nerve in the posterior cervical triangle: functional or structural? J Neurosurg Spine. 2010 Jan;12(1):22-4.

Uz, A., Apaydin, N., Cinar, S.O., Apan, A., Comert, B., Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M. A novel approach for anterior sciatic nerve block: cadaveric feasibility study. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Nov;32(9):873-8. Epub 2010 Mar 4.

Yousuf, S., Tubbs, R.S., Wartmann, C.T., Kapos, T., Cohen-Gadol, A.A., Loukas, M. A review of the gross anatomy, functions, pathology, and clinical uses of the buccal fat pad. Surg Radiol Anat. 2010 Jun;32(5):427-36. Epub 2009 Nov 25. Review.

Zurada, A., St Gielecki, J., Tubbs, R.S., Loukas, M., Zurada-Zielińska, A., Maksymowicz, W., Nowak, D., Cohen-Gadol, A.A. Three-Dimensional Morphometry of the A1 Segment of the Anterior Cerebral Artery With Neurosurgical Relevance. Neurosurgery. 2010 Dec;67(6):1768-1782.

11.0 Reviewer for Journals and Boards

Dr. Francis Fakoya: Journal of Anatomical Sciences

Dr. Muge Akpinar-Elci: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, The Archives of Environmental and Occupational Health, Chest.

Dr. Martin Forde: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment.

Dr. Svetlana Kotelnikova: Earth Science Reviews, Elsevier, International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology

Dr. Marios Loukas: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, Clinical Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, European Journal of Surgical Research, Journal of Brachial Plexus and Peripheral Nerve Injury, Journal of Anatomy, Pain Practice, Medical Science Monitor, Indian Journal of Plastic surgery, American Journal of the Medical Sciences, Clinical Rehabilitative Tissue Engineering Research, Life Sciences, Anatomy, International Journal of Experimental and Clinical Anatomy, Current Urology, World Journal of Surgery, Clinical Medicine Case Reports, World Journal of Emergency Medicine, Acta Neurochirurgica, Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Medical Sciences, Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Ophthalmology, Journal Biomedicine International Journal of Clinical Medicine and Reseach, Anatomical Record, International Journal of Cardiology, Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice, Case reports in Medicine Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, Journal of Clinical Anesthesia, European Journal of Radiography, Pace.

Dr. Calum Macpherson: Acta Tropica, Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, BMC Infectious Diseases, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology and Infection, Gastroenterology, International Journal for Parasitology, Journal of the Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association, Lancet, Parasitology International, Small Animal Practice, Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Trends in Parasitology, Veterinary Record.


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Dr. Clare Morrall: Revisita de Biologia Tropical (the International Journal of Tropical Biology and Conservation).

12.0 Thesis Defenses

Mr. Ravindra Naraine, MSc Student, School of Medicine, “Diversity Of Iron-Oxidizing Microorganisms In St. Andrew's Warm Soda Spring On Grenada”, 10 February 2010.

Dr. Ibinabo Porbeni, MD, MSPH Student, “Efficacy of Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV Interventions in Rivers state, Nigeria." 24 March 2010

Ms. Carla Richards, MSPH Student, School of Medicine, “Environmental related health problems among veterinary students at SGU”, 8 April 2010.

Mr. Jesse Linvingston, MD/MSc Student, School of Medicine, “The Clinical Anatomy of the Emissary Vein of the Foramen Cecum”, 9 April 2010.

Ms. Edé Tyrell, MSc Student, School of Medicine, “A Comparative analysis of the Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Beliefs and Socio-economic impact of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) in Georgetown, Guyana”, 25 August 2010.

Mr. Damian Greaves, MSPH student, School of Medicine, “An evaluation of the quality of the healthcare delivery system at the Grenada General Hospital: The perception of providers and patients” 6 October 2010.

Ms. Kristin Napoli, DVM, MSPH student, “The study of Global One Health Initiatives from 1984 - 2009”, 27 October 2010.

Dr. Adria Rodriguez, DVM, MSc student, “The occurrence and antimicrobial drug resistance of potential bacterial pathogens from shellfish in Grenada” 1 December 2010.

13.0 Graduate Seminars

Jerome E. Kurent, MD, MPH, “Challenges in Pain Management at the End of Life: Patient Case Studies” 20 January 2010.

Mr. Dave Alexander, "Drugs, A Grenadian Perspective 1988 - 2009" 3 February 2010.

Professor Karsten Pedersen, “The ecology of microorganisms in the deep biosphere as seen with molecular goggles” 17 February 2010.

Dr. Austin P Kirwan, “Mankind and other Animals”, 24 February 2010.

Lord Soulsby of Swaffham Prior, MRCVS, DVSM, MA, C.Biol., DSc(Hon), “Antibiotic Resistance”, 3 March 2010.

Professor Hugh W. Ferguson, BVM & S, PhD, DipACVP, FRCPath, "Emerging Diseases of Fish", 10 March 2010.

Dr. Hugh Sealy, PhD, P.Eng. , “What happened in Copenhagen and the way forward”, 17 March 2010.

Shakeera James, MSc. Student, School of Medicine, SGU, “The Basics of Myxobacteria; A Discussion of Motility and Morphogenesis in Myxococcus xantus” 7 April 2010

Alan Wabrek, MD, MPH, DrPH and Lynn Wabrek, MEd, MPH, “Dilemma of Abortion”, Part I, 14 April 2010

Alan Wabrek, MD, MPH, DrPH and Lynn Wabrek, MEd, MPH, “Dilemma of Abortion”, Part II, 21 April 2010


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Britney King, DVM Student, School of Veterinary Medicine, SGU, “A Survey of Endoparasites Found in Elephants and Buffalo and Thailand's Human-Domesticated Wildlife Interface” 28 April 2010.

Bonnie Rusk, MSc, WINDREF Research Fellow, Director of the Grenada Dove Conservation Program, “Conservation of the Grenada dove (Leptotila wellsi): An update” 5

May 2010.

William Merbs, PhD student, School of Medicine, SGU, “The Clinical Anatomy of the Thoracic Splanchnic Nerves”, 12 May 2010

Public Health Practicum Students Presentations, 26 May, 2010

Steven Watts, MA student in International Development Studies, Saint Mary's University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, “The role of environmental practices in influencing the vulnerability of rural livelihoods to natural disasters: A Grenadian analysis”, 25 August 2010.

Ryann Bresnahan and Joella Lynch, MSc students, Disaster Management and Sustainable Development, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK, "Disaster Management in Grenada: Dissertation Studies", 1 September 2010.

Luke Rawlings, MD, SGU Graduate 2004, "Recovery in Haiti: A Medical Aid Teams' Experience Six Months Post Earthquake in a Rural Hospital and Tent City", 8 September 2010.

Calum Macpherson, PhD, DIC, “The Kenya Selective 2010”, 15 September 2010.

Shelly Rodrigo, PhD, Assistant Professor in Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, SGU, “Rainwater Harvesting - 21st Century”, 22 September 2010.

Shakeera James, MSc. Student, School of Medicine, SGU, “Industrial production of amino acids by Corynebacterium glutamicum”, 29 September 2010.

Edwyn Sperr, M.L.I.S. Copyright & Electronic Resources Officer, SGU, "Patient Privacy in the Age of the Electronic Medical Record", 20 October 2010

Dr. Geoffrey Bosson, MSc, CertHSM, CertTQM, CertT(HE), CSci, FIBMS, Head of Biomedical Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK, "Why do witches ride broomsticks? and other biochemical fairytales", 3 November 2010

Dr. Brenda Kirby, PhD, SGU, "Solving the Organ Shortage Crisis: To Pay, Presume or........?" 17 November 2010

Peter Fish, P.A., Medical Student, School of Medicine, SGU, "The Sword and Stethoscope: Making Medical Choices on the Battlefield", 24 November 2010

Avi Bahadoor Yetman, MSc. Student, School of Medicine, SGU, "Human Papilloma Virus: The road to discovery and beyond", 8 December 2010


47


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14.0 Contact Information

Director, WINDREF (Grenada) Dr. Calum N.L. Macpherson P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-3068 Fax: 1 (473) 444-3041 E-mail: [email protected]

Assistant Director, WINDREF (Grenada) Mr. Trevor Noël P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-3997 Fax: 1 (473) 444-3041 E-mail: [email protected]

Admin. Assistant, WINDREF (Grenada)Mrs. Isha English P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-3997 Fax: 1 (473) 444-3041 E-mail: [email protected]

Secretary, WINDREF (Grenada) Ms. Naomi Alexander P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-4175 x 2555 Fax: 1 (473) 444-3041 E-mail: [email protected]

SGU IRB & WINDREF (Grenada) Ms. Meg Conlon P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-4175 x 2221 Fax: 1 (473) 439-4388 E-mail: [email protected]

Administrative Assistant, WINDREF (USA) Ms. Valerie Smith 11 East Main Street, Suite 154 Bay Shore, New York, 11706 United States of America Tel: 1 (800) 899-6337 Fax: 1 (631) 665-2796 E-mail: [email protected]

Exec. Secretary, WINDREF (UK) Mrs. Sue Huntington Kingdon’s Yard, Parchment Street Winchester, Hampshire, SO 23 8AT United Kingdom Tel: 01962 850650 Fax: 01962 850567 E-mail: [email protected]

Caribbean EcoHealth Programme (CEHP) Dr. Martin Forde P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 439-2000 x.2349 Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Caribbean Environmental Health Initiative (CERI) Dr. Svetlana Kotelnikova P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-4175 ext. 2465 Fax: 1 (473) 439-1845 E-mail: [email protected]

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Inititative (REEF) Dr. Hugh Sealy P.O. Box 7, St. George’s Grenada, West Indies Tel: 1 (473) 444-4175 ext. Fax: 1 (473) E-mail: [email protected]

WINDWARD ISLANDS

RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Documents

WINDWARD ISLANDS RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION · Cover Page Photos left to right from the top Former West Indies Cricket players: Winston Benjamin, Curtly Ambrose, Kenny Benjamin