Association between vitamin D and latent tuberculosis infection in the United States: NHANES, 2011-2012.

Background: Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a precursor of active tuberculosis diseases and an important issue in the United States and worldwide. The association between vitamin D deficiency and LTBI is poorly understood.

Methods: From 2011 to 2012, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) assessed LTBI (according to tuberculin skin testing and QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube) and measured serum levels of vitamin D.

Risk factors for infective endocarditis in children with congenital heart diseases - A nationwide population-based case control study.

Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon in childhood. Its associated epidemiological characteristics in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) remain unclear.

Methods: The study population included children born in Taiwan during the years 1997 to 2005 who were diagnosed as having CHD before 3years of age.