Halogenated Meroditerpenoids from a South Pacific Collection of the Red Alga Callophycus serratus.

A detailed examination of the red alga Callophycus serratus collected in Tonga led to the isolation of six new halogenated meroditerpenoids: callophycol C (1), callophycoic acid I (2), iodocallophycols E (3) and F (4), iodocallophycoic acid B (5), and callophycoic acid J (6). Of these, compounds 3-5 are new iodinated additions to the growing family of Callophycus meroditerpenoids. The relative configurations of compounds 1-6 were deduced by analyses of 1D NOE data and H-H scalar coupling constants, and 3-6 are proposed to differ from the closely related compounds reported in the literature, iodocallophycoic acid A and iodocallophycols A-D.

Reducing barriers to testing for Chlamydia trachomatis by mailed self-collected samples.

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia) is the most commonly notified sexually transmissible bacterial infection in Australia, where distance to health services can be a barrier. This study investigated the acceptability of a self-collection kit for chlamydia testing (sent by mail) and assessed the risk profiles of participants with respect to locality.

Methods: In total, 2587 self-collection kits were distributed opportunistically or sent directly to participants upon request, as was a self-administered questionnaire.

Improving Chlamydia trachomatis retesting rates by mailed self-collection kit.

Background: To assess a mailed self-collection kit for chlamydia testing as an intervention to increase post-treatment retesting rates.

Methods: This prospective intervention study took place at a sexual health clinic in Townsville, North Queensland (Australia) between 2006 and 2008. The intervention consisted of offering to mail a self-collection kit for retesting 3 months after treatment.

The check is in the mail: piloting a novel approach to Chlamydia trachomatis testing using self-collected, mailed specimen.

Objectives: To develop, implement and evaluate the processes of a novel approach to chlamydia testing that is accessible, confidential, free of charge, easy to use, and allows for self-collection of specimens, their transportation by regular mail and the central management of results.

Methods: A 'self-collection kit' was developed including all items and instructions necessary to obtain a sample. A network of distribution sites at locations frequented by the target population has been established.

Novel approach to an effective community-based chlamydia screening program within the routine operation of a primary healthcare service.

Background: A prospective study was undertaken to develop an evidence-based outreach chlamydia screening program and to assess the viability and efficiency of this complementary approach to chlamydia testing within the routine operations of a primary healthcare service.

Methods: A primary healthcare service based in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, identified high-prevalence groups for chlamydia in the community. Subsequently, a series of outreach clinics were established and conducted between August 2004 and November 2005 at a defence force unit, a university, high school leavers' festivities, a high school catering for Indigenous students, youth service programs, and backpacker accommodations.