BBC Russian

13 pages, 1574 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Epidemiological Characteristics of Overseas-Imported Infectious Diseases Identified through Airport Health-Screening Measures: A Case Study on Fuzhou, China

by Hong Li, Yan Yang, Jiake Chen, Qingyu Li, Yifeng Chen, Yilin Zhang, Shaojian Cai, Meirong Zhan, Chuancheng Wu, Xinwu Lin and Jianjun Xiang

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060138 - 20 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: This study aimed to examine the epidemiological characteristics of imported infections and assess the effectiveness of border health screening in detecting imported diseases. Methods: We obtained infection data for 2016 to 2019 from the Fuzhou Changle International Airport Infection Reporting System. The [...] Read more.

Background: This study aimed to examine the epidemiological characteristics of imported infections and assess the effectiveness of border health screening in detecting imported diseases. Methods: We obtained infection data for 2016 to 2019 from the Fuzhou Changle International Airport Infection Reporting System. The demographic, temporal, and spatial characteristics of travel-related infections were analyzed using r×c contingency tables, the Cochran–Armitage trend test, and seasonal-trend decomposition using LOESS (STL). Detection rates were used as a proxy for the effectiveness of border health-screening measures. Results: Overall, 559 travel-related infections were identified during the study period, with 94.3% being imported infections. Airport health screening demonstrated an overall effectiveness of 23.7% in identifying travel-associated infections. Imported infections were predominantly identified in males, with 55.8% of cases occurring in individuals aged 20–49. The peak periods of infection importation were from January to February and from May to August. The infectious diseases identified were imported from 25 different countries and regions. All dengue fever cases were imported from Southeast Asia. Most notifiable infections (76.0%) were identified through fever screening at the airport. Conclusion: The increasing number of imported infections poses a growing challenge for public health systems. Multifaceted efforts including surveillance, vaccination, international collaboration, and public awareness are required to mitigate the importation and spread of infectious diseases from overseas sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Environmental Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases)

18 pages, 1068 KiB

Open AccessReview

Knowledge Gaps and Educational Opportunities in Congenital Toxoplasmosis: A Narrative Review of Brazilian and Global Perspectives

by David Richer Araujo Coelho, Rogerio Oliveira da Luz, Catiucia Soares Melegario, Willians Fernando Vieira and Lilian Maria Garcia Bahia-Oliveira

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060137 - 20 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Congenital toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by the transmission of the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii during pregnancy that can potentially cause severe consequences for the fetus or neonates. The disease disproportionately impacts the global population and is generally correlated with the Human Development [...] Read more.

Congenital toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by the transmission of the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii during pregnancy that can potentially cause severe consequences for the fetus or neonates. The disease disproportionately impacts the global population and is generally correlated with the Human Development Index. Despite its prevalence, there are knowledge gaps among pregnant women and healthcare providers regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition. This narrative review aimed to examine the current state of knowledge of toxoplasmosis among both groups, with a focus on exploring the Brazilian and global perspectives and highlighting opportunities for enhancing education and communication. A search was conducted across five databases, and 60 studies were selected (23 in Brazil and 37 worldwide). Quantitative analysis revealed that general knowledge of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women is notably poor, with 66% of Brazilian women and 72% of women worldwide lacking sufficient understanding. Among those with some knowledge, the most recognized association is with cats (46% in Brazil and 38% worldwide), followed by raw or undercooked meat (27% in Brazil and 25% worldwide), and improperly sanitized vegetables or water (15% in Brazil and 21% worldwide). Similarly, gaps in knowledge were found among healthcare providers. Difficulty with IgG avidity test interpretation is higher in Brazil (43%) compared to worldwide (18%). The most recognized association is with cats (66% in Brazil and 74% worldwide), followed by raw or undercooked meat (49% in Brazil and 70% worldwide), and improperly sanitized vegetables or water (31% in Brazil and 32% worldwide). These findings emphasize the need for tailored local and global public health educational initiatives to enhance knowledge of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women and healthcare providers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Toxoplasmosis)

12 pages, 2224 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Discriminative Identification of the Two Predominant Echinococcus Species from Canine Fecal Samples in the Tibetan Region of China by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification–Lateral Flow Dipstick Assay

by Xinyue Lv, Jiajia Ai, Xiaojin Mo, Haojie Ding, Sofia Litchev, Entung Lu, Youhong Weng, Qing He, Quzhen Gongsang, Shijie Yang, Xiumin Ma, Jingzhong Li, Huasheng Pang, Shaohong Lu and Qingming Kong

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060136 - 20 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Echinococcosis poses a significant concern in the fields of public health and veterinary care as it can be transmitted between animals and humans. The primary endemic subtypes are cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE), which result from infestation by Echinococcus granulosus and [...] Read more.

Echinococcosis poses a significant concern in the fields of public health and veterinary care as it can be transmitted between animals and humans. The primary endemic subtypes are cystic echinococcosis (CE) and alveolar echinococcosis (AE), which result from infestation by Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis, respectively. A prominent epidemic of echinococcosis greatly affects the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) in China. A new technique called the loop-mediated isothermal amplification–lateral flow dipstick (LAMP-LFD) test is introduced in this research to differentiate between E. granulosus and E. multilocularis using their repetitive genetic sequences. The test is characterized by its portable nature, simple operation, quick result production, high sensitivity, and low susceptibility to aerosol contamination. The LAMP-LFD method demonstrated an exceptional minimal detection limit, reaching levels as low as approximately 1 fg/μL (femtogram per microliter) of genomic DNA. The assay’s specificity was assessed, and no cross-reactivity was seen. A total of 982 dog fecal samples were collected from 54 counties in the TAR region between July 2021 and June 2022. The established method underwent validation using a commercially available ELISA kit. The agreement rate between the LAMP-LFD and ELISA methods was 97.25%, with a sensitivity of 96.05% and a specificity of 97.35%. The assay described in this study improves specificity by using a double-labeled probe, and it reduces the risk of false-positive results caused by aerosol contamination through the use of a sealed device. This makes it a suitable choice for quickly and accurately identifying the two main types of Echinococcus in field settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Echinococcosis: From Parasite–Host Interaction to Rapid Detection)

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14 pages, 4752 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Human Skin as an Ex Vivo Model for Maintaining Mycobacterium leprae and Leprosy Studies

by Natália Aparecida de Paula, Marcel Nani Leite, Daniele Ferreira de Faria Bertoluci, Cleverson Teixeira Soares, Patrícia Sammarco Rosa and Marco Andrey Cipriani Frade

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060135 - 20 Jun 2024

Viewed by 274

Abstract

The in vitro cultivation of M. leprae has not been possible since it was described as causing leprosy, and the limitation of animal models for clinical aspects makes studies on leprosy and bacteria–human host interaction a challenge. Our aim was to standardize the [...] Read more.

The in vitro cultivation of M. leprae has not been possible since it was described as causing leprosy, and the limitation of animal models for clinical aspects makes studies on leprosy and bacteria–human host interaction a challenge. Our aim was to standardize the ex vivo skin model (hOSEC) to maintenance and study of M. leprae as an alternative animal model. Bacillary suspensions were inoculated into human skin explants and sustained in DMEM medium for 60 days. Explants were evaluated by RT-PCR-16SrRNA and cytokine gene expression. The viability and infectivity of bacilli recovered from explants (D28 and D60) were evaluated using the Shepard’s model. All explants were RT-PCR-16SrRNA positive. The viability and infectivity of recovered bacilli from explants, analyzed after 5 months of inoculation in mice, showed an average positivity of 31%, with the highest positivity in the D28 groups (80%). Furthermore, our work showed different patterns in cytokine gene expression (TGF-β, IL-10, IL-8, and TNF-α) in the presence of alive or dead bacilli. Although changes can be made to improve future experiments, our results have demonstrated that it is possible to use the hOSEC to maintain M. leprae for 60 days, interacting with the host system, an important step in the development of experimental models for studies on the biology of the bacillus, its interactions, and drug susceptibility. Full article

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13 pages, 3250 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between KSHV-Specific Humoral and T Cell Responses with Recurrence of HIV-Associated Kaposi Sarcoma

by Marie-Claire Mukasine, Gina Mulundu, Musonda Kawimbe, Keagan Mutale, Chibamba Mumba, Salum J. Lidenge and Owen Ngalamika

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060134 - 18 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an AIDS-defining angio-proliferative malignancy, with the Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpes virus (KSHV) as its etiologic agent. Upon treatment with chemotherapy, a proportion of HIV-associated KS patients experience disease recurrence within a few months of completing treatment. We aimed at determining [...] Read more.

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an AIDS-defining angio-proliferative malignancy, with the Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpes virus (KSHV) as its etiologic agent. Upon treatment with chemotherapy, a proportion of HIV-associated KS patients experience disease recurrence within a few months of completing treatment. We aimed at determining whether KSHV-specific adaptive immune responses were associated with KS recurrence upon complete remission. We conducted a prospective cohort study. The primary outcome was the recurrence of HIV-associated KS. An immunofluorescence assay was used to determine anti-KSHV antibodies, an enzyme-linked immunospot was conducted for T cell responses, PCR was carried out to determine KSHV status, and flow cytometry was used for CD4 counting and immunophenotyping. KSHV detection in PBMCs was high and not associated with KS recurrence-free survival (p = 0.29). Anti-KSHV antibody titers were high and not associated with recurrence-free survival (p = 0.63). KSHV-specific T cell responses dropped from baseline levels among individuals with recurrence, but the drop was not statistically significant. Individuals experiencing KS recurrence had a significantly higher proportion of T cell subsets expressing PD1, while those with sustained remission had a significant increase in CD4 T cell counts from baseline levels during the follow-up period (p = 0.02). Anti-KSHV antibodies are not a good correlate of protection from KS recurrence. T cells in individuals experiencing KS recurrence hadhigh PD1 expression, while an increase in CD4 counts was associated with sustained KS remission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Perspectives on Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Infection)

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13 pages, 2000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Detection of Leishmania spp. and Blood Source of Female Sand Flies in the Parque Estadual do Rio Doce and Municipality of Timóteo, Minas Gerais, Brazil

by Cristian Ferreira de Souza, Carlos Alberto dos Santos, Paula Dias Bevilacqua, José Dilermando Andrade Filho and Reginaldo Peçanha Brazil

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060133 - 13 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania and is transmitted by the bite female sand fly. The present work is characterized as a descriptive study in two areas: a forest area located in the Parque Estadual do [...] Read more.

Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania and is transmitted by the bite female sand fly. The present work is characterized as a descriptive study in two areas: a forest area located in the Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, and another urban area located in the municipality of Timóteo-MG, with the objective of identifying the presence of Leishmania spp. and the blood source of the collected female sand flies. Part of the females were obtained from the Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, and part was collected using 19 ligth traps distributed in residences of Timóteo. For molecular studies of Leishmania spp. DNA, the ITS1 gene was used, and in the search for blood source, the CytB gene was used and positive samples were sequenced. The study demonstrated that there are at least three species of Leishmania circulating in the study areas: Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis, and Leishmania (V.) guyanensis. Nyssomyia whitmani was the predominant sand fly species in the urban area of Timóteo with a positive diagnosis for the presence of Leishmania braziliensis DNA. We found the presence of blood from Gallus gallus (Chicken) and Sus scrofa (Pig) in sand flies. The present study demonstrates that Leishmania braziliensis is the main agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the study area, with the effective participation of Nyssomyia whitmani as the vector and both Gallus gallus and Sus scrofa acting as a food source for female sand flies, and helping maintaining the sand fly life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leishmaniasis: Vector-Host-Pathogen Interactions in Health and Disease)

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Graphical abstract

12 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Neurological Complications on Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Infective Endocarditis

by Pedro Henrique Oliveira Murta Pinto, Isabela Galizzi Fae, Gustavo Brandão Oliveira, Roni Arley Silva Duque, Mauricio Vitor Machado Oliveira, Luan Salvador Machado Barbalho, André Oliveira Parreiras, Fernanda Alves Gelape, Fernanda Sophya Leite Cambraia, Guilherme Lelis Costa, Lucas Chaves Diamante, Renato Bráulio, Cláudio Léo Gelape, Andréa Teixeira-Carvalho, Teresa Cristina Abreu Ferrari and Maria Carmo Pereira Nunes

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060132 - 13 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Neurological complications are frequent during the active course of infective endocarditis (IE), and they are associated with high in-hospital mortality rates. However, limited data exist on the prognostic value of these complications for late outcomes. This study aimed to assess the long-term impact [...] Read more.

Neurological complications are frequent during the active course of infective endocarditis (IE), and they are associated with high in-hospital mortality rates. However, limited data exist on the prognostic value of these complications for late outcomes. This study aimed to assess the long-term impact of neurological complications in patients surviving an IE episode. A total of 263 consecutive IE patients admitted to a tertiary care center between 2007 and 2022 were prospectively included. Neurological complications at admission included transient ischemic attack (TIA), ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, intracerebral abscess, and meningitis. The primary outcome was a composite of overall mortality or heart valve surgery. Of the patients, 34.2% died in the hospital, leaving 173 survivors for long-term follow-up. Over a median of 3.5 years, 29 patients died, and 13 (9%) underwent cardiac surgery, resulting in an overall adverse event rate of 30%. Neurological complications independently predicted long-term adverse outcomes (hazard ratio (HR) 2.237; 95% CI 1.006–4.976), after adjusting for age, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and heart failure (HF) development. In an IE patient cohort, neurological complications at admission, which is a complication directly related to the IE process, were independent predictors of long-term outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Highlights in Infective Endocarditis)

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10 pages, 252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Factors Associated with Loss to Follow-Up during Tuberculosis Treatment in the Sanatorium Hospital of Luanda, Angola

by Domingos Vita, Maria Luisa Aznar, Joan Martínez-Campreciós, Debora Cristina Maindo Sebastiao Kansietoko and Israel Molina

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060131 - 12 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a serious public health threat that affects the most vulnerable populations. Patients who are lost to follow-up (LTFU) after TB diagnosis still represent one of the biggest challenges to TB control. Method: In this prospective observational study, [...] Read more.

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a serious public health threat that affects the most vulnerable populations. Patients who are lost to follow-up (LTFU) after TB diagnosis still represent one of the biggest challenges to TB control. Method: In this prospective observational study, we aimed to identify and analyse the risk factors associated with LTFU among TB patients who started first-line TB treatment in the Sanatorium Hospital in Luanda. Result: A total of 113 patients with TB (non-multidrug resistant) were included between August 2018 and September 2019. Seventy-six (67.3%) patients were cured, 27 (23.9%) were LTFU, 5 (4.4%) died, 4 (3.5%) were transferred and 1 (0.9%) presented treatment failure. After excluding those who died, were transferred or failed treatment, we observed that severe TB at the time of diagnosis (OR 9.24, 95% CI 2.18–39.04) and food insecurity were significantly associated with LTFU (OR 5.96, 95% CI 1.66–21.41). Conclusions: The findings of our study can contribute to understanding the reasons for the LTFU of patients with TB and can guide policies and facilitate designing measures to allow better adherence and, therefore, greater treatment success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)

13 pages, 777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leprosy in Spain: A Descriptive Study of Admissions at Fontilles Sanatorium between 1909 and 2020

by Cristina Juan, Lourdes Lledó, Miguel Torralba, José Ramón Gómez and Consuelo Giménez

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060130 - 11 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: The study aimed to characterize patients with leprosy admitted to Fontilles throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, focusing on differences across three periods (I, II, and III). It also explored variables linked to patient survival. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study [...] Read more.

Background: The study aimed to characterize patients with leprosy admitted to Fontilles throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, focusing on differences across three periods (I, II, and III). It also explored variables linked to patient survival. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study analyzing the medical records of Fontilles patients from 1909 to 2020. It assessed 26 clinical, sociodemographic, and temporal variables (n = 2652). Results: Most patients were male, single, multibacillary (MB), and farmers, from Andalusia and the Valencian Community. The origin of patients shifted over time towards being mostly foreign-born in period III. More than a half were previously admitted and had family members with leprosy. While leprosy reactions decreased over time, neurological symptoms were increasingly diagnosed. The age at onset, admission, and death increased progressively over time. The survival of patients with leprosy at Fontilles depended on the age at admission and the period. Conclusions: Improved knowledge, services, and awareness regarding leprosy led to increased age at onset and more favorable outcomes. The prolonged time between symptom onset and diagnosis indicates that leprosy is still a neglected disease. Although MB forms are more severe, leprosy classification did not significantly impact the survival rates of patients at Fontilles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)

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18 pages, 6852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Therapeutic Modulation of Arginase with nor-NOHA Alters Immune Responses in Experimental Mouse Models of Pulmonary Tuberculosis including in the Setting of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Co-Infection

by Sadhana Chauhan, Rebecca J. Nusbaum, Matthew B. Huante, Alex J. Holloway, Mark A. Endsley, Benjamin B. Gelman, Joshua G. Lisinicchia and Janice J. Endsley

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060129 - 6 Jun 2024

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Abstract

L-arginine metabolism is strongly linked with immunity to mycobacteria, primarily through the antimicrobial activity of nitric oxide (NO). The potential to modulate tuberculosis (TB) outcomes through interventions that target L-arginine pathways are limited by an incomplete understanding of mechanisms and inadequate in vivo [...] Read more.

L-arginine metabolism is strongly linked with immunity to mycobacteria, primarily through the antimicrobial activity of nitric oxide (NO). The potential to modulate tuberculosis (TB) outcomes through interventions that target L-arginine pathways are limited by an incomplete understanding of mechanisms and inadequate in vivo modeling. These gaps in knowledge are compounded for HIV and Mtb co-infections, where activation of arginase-1 due to HIV infection may promote survival and replication of both Mtb and HIV. We utilized in vitro and in vivo systems to determine how arginase inhibition using N^ω-hydroxy-nor-L-arginine (nor-NOHA) alters L-arginine pathway metabolism relative to immune responses and disease outcomes following Mtb infection. Treatment with nor-NOHA polarized murine macrophages (RAW 264.7) towards M1 phenotype, increased NO, and reduced Mtb in RAW macrophages. In Balb/c mice, nor-NOHA reduced pulmonary arginase and increased the antimicrobial metabolite spermine in association with a trend towards reduced Mtb CFU in lung. In humanized immune system (HIS) mice, HIV infection increased plasma arginase and heightened the pulmonary arginase response to Mtb. Treatment with nor-NOHA increased cytokine responses to Mtb and Mtb/HIV in lung tissue but did not significantly alter bacterial burden or viral load. Our results suggest that L-arginine pathway modulators may have potential as host-directed therapies to augment antibiotics in TB chemotherapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ending Tuberculosis Epidemic: Current Status and Future Prospects)

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13 pages, 2476 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Are Pathogenic Leptospira Species Ubiquitous in Urban Recreational Parks in Sydney, Australia?

by Xiao Lu, Mark E. Westman, Rachel Mizzi, Christine Griebsch, Jacqueline M. Norris, Cheryl Jenkins and Michael P. Ward

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060128 - 6 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the spirochete bacteria Leptospira spp. From December 2017 to December 2023, a total of 34 canine leptospirosis cases were reported in urban Sydney, Australia. During the same spatio-temporal frame, one locally acquired human case was also [...] Read more.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the spirochete bacteria Leptospira spp. From December 2017 to December 2023, a total of 34 canine leptospirosis cases were reported in urban Sydney, Australia. During the same spatio-temporal frame, one locally acquired human case was also reported. As it was hypothesised that human residents and companion dogs might both be exposed to pathogenic Leptospira in community green spaces in Sydney, an environmental survey was conducted from December 2023 to January 2024 to detect the presence of pathogenic Leptospira DNA in multipurpose, recreational public parks in the council areas of the Inner West and City of Sydney, Australia. A total of 75 environmental samples were collected from 20 public parks that were easily accessible by human and canine visitors. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) testing targeting pathogenic and intermediate Leptospira spp. was performed, and differences in detection of Leptospira spp. between dog-allowed and dog-prohibited areas were statistically examined. The global Moran’s Index was calculated to identify any spatial autocorrelation in the qPCR results. Pathogenic leptospires were detected in all 20 parks, either in water or soil samples (35/75 samples). Cycle threshold (Ct) values were slightly lower for water samples (Ct 28.52–39.10) compared to soil samples (Ct 33.78–39.77). The chi-squared test and Fisher’s exact test results were statistically non-significant (p > 0.05 for both water and soil samples), and there was no spatial autocorrelation detected in the qPCR results (p > 0.05 for both sample types). Although further research is now required, our preliminary results indicate the presence of pathogenic Leptospira DNA and its potential ubiquity in recreational parks in Sydney. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected Zoonotic Diseases: Advances in Leptospirosis in Livestock and Companion Animals)

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9 pages, 208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fungal Keratitis, Epidemiology and Outcomes in a Tropical Australian Setting

by Leah N. Kim, Hema Karthik, Kate Elizabeth Proudmore, Sarah Elizabeth Kidd and Robert William Baird

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060127 - 3 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Background: Fungal keratitis is an ophthalmic emergency that can cause visual impairment and blindness. We reviewed the epidemiology and clinical features of fungal keratitis in a tropical Australian setting. Objectives: To document the clinical and microbiological characteristics of fungal keratitis in an Australian [...] Read more.

Background: Fungal keratitis is an ophthalmic emergency that can cause visual impairment and blindness. We reviewed the epidemiology and clinical features of fungal keratitis in a tropical Australian setting. Objectives: To document the clinical and microbiological characteristics of fungal keratitis in an Australian tropical setting. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patients with fungal keratitis from October 2014 to December 2022 was conducted at Royal Darwin Hospital, Northern Territory, Australia. We reviewed all patients with culture-proven fungal keratitis and their outcomes. Results: There were 31 patients identified. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) patients were of a significantly younger median age (28 years) compared to non-ATSI patients (42 years), and they also presented later to health care. Contact lens use and ocular trauma were the most common predisposing factors. Most patients presented with a corneal infiltrate and corneal epithelial defect, and the central visual axis was affected in 54% of patients. Curvularia spp. and Fusarium spp. were the commonest causative fungi (39% and 30% respectively). Conclusions: Our series is different and reveals a wider range of fungal species identified over the 7 years of the study, in particular, a range of Curvularia spp. were detected. Access to eye health services in rural and remote settings is important, particularly for ATSI patients, as morbidity remains high. Full article

13 pages, 532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Community Feedback on Mass Medicines Administration for Neglected Tropical Diseases in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

by Juliana Ajuma Amanyi-Enegela, Jacqueline Azumi Badaki, Gbenga Olorunshola Alege, Faizah Okunade, Joseph Kumbur, Rinpan Ishaya, Donald Ashikeni, Mohammad Babar Qureshi and Girija Sankar

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060126 - 30 May 2024

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Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of annual mass drug administration (MDA) as the strategy for controlling and eliminating the five preventive chemotherapy neglected tropical diseases (PC-NTDs). The success of MDAs hinges on community acceptance, active participation, and compliance. This study [...] Read more.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of annual mass drug administration (MDA) as the strategy for controlling and eliminating the five preventive chemotherapy neglected tropical diseases (PC-NTDs). The success of MDAs hinges on community acceptance, active participation, and compliance. This study aimed to explore the experiences and perceptions of community members, to obtain a more thorough understanding of their openness and willingness to participate in MDA and other NTD elimination activities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods for comprehensive data collection. Eighteen key informant interviews (KIIs) and sixteen focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted to explore community engagement, participation, medication utilization, and programme perception. Triangulation of findings from interviews and discussions with household survey results was performed to gain a deeper understanding of emerging themes. The household survey involved interviewing 1220 individuals (Abaji: 687; Bwari: 533). Audio tapes recorded KIIs and FGDs, with interview transcripts coded using Nvivo 12.0 software based on predefined themes. Descriptive analysis using SPSS version 21 was applied to quantitative data. Results indicated high awareness of mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns in both area councils (Abaji: 84.9%; Bwari: 82.9%), with a small percentage claiming ignorance (15.1%), attributed to lack of information or absence during health campaigns. Respondents primarily participated by taking medication (82.5%), with minimal involvement in other MDA campaigns. Perception of medicines was generally positive, with a significant association between participation level and performance rating (p < 0.05). The study recommends leveraging high awareness and community responsiveness to enhance engagement in various MDA activities, ensuring sustainability and ownership of the programme. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Community Engagement and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs))

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9 pages, 3508 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Applicability of Traps for Collecting Mosquito Immatures (Diptera: Culicidae) for Entomological Surveillance of Arbovirus Vectors in a Remnant of the Atlantic Forest, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil

by Rayane Dias, Cecilia Ferreira de Mello, Shayenne Olsson Freitas Silva, Hélcio Reinaldo Gil-Santana, Ana Laura Carbajal-de-la-Fuente and Jeronimo Alencar

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060125 - 29 May 2024

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Abstract

Diverse larval habitats significantly influence female mosquito oviposition. Utilizing traps that simulate these habitats is helpful in the study of the bioecology and characteristics of pathogen-transmitting species during oviposition. This study evaluated the feasibility of different traps in natural environments by comparing sampling [...] Read more.

Diverse larval habitats significantly influence female mosquito oviposition. Utilizing traps that simulate these habitats is helpful in the study of the bioecology and characteristics of pathogen-transmitting species during oviposition. This study evaluated the feasibility of different traps in natural environments by comparing sampling methods and detecting the oviposition of epidemiologically important mosquitoes, with emphasis on Haemagogus species, in a fragment of the Atlantic Forest in Silva Jardim, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. Monthly collections were conducted from March 2021 to October 2023 using four types of traps: plastic containers, tires, bamboo, and sapucaia. Immatures were collected from these traps using a pipette, placed in plastic bags, and transported to the laboratory. Tire was the most efficient trap, showing the highest mosquito abundance (n = 1239) and number of species (S = 11). Conversely, the plastic container trap exhibited the lowest diversity (H = 0.43), with only two species and a low mosquito abundance (n = 26). The bamboo trap captured six species and recorded the second-highest diversity index (H = 1.04), while the sapucaia trap captured five species and had the third-highest diversity index (H = 0.91). Of the total immatures collected, 1817 reached adulthood, comprising 13 species, two of which are vectors of the sylvatic yellow fever virus: Haemagogus leucocelaenus and Haemagogus janthinomys. In conclusion, detecting key vectors of the sylvatic yellow fever virus in Brazil highlights the need for ongoing entomological and epidemiological surveillance in the study area and its vicinity. These efforts are crucial for monitoring vector presence and activity, identifying potential transmission hotspots, and devising effective control and prevention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Mosquito-Borne Diseases)

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15 pages, 1583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploration of the Molecular Mechanism by Which Caveolin-1 Regulates Changes in Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability Leading to Eosinophilic Meningoencephalitis

by An-Chih Chen, Shih-Chan Lai, Cheng-You Lu and Ke-Min Chen

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060124 - 24 May 2024

Viewed by 569

Abstract

Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a zoonotic parasite, can invade the human central nervous system (CNS) and cause acute eosinophilic meningitis or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. Mice infected with A. cantonensis show elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, plasminogen activators, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, resulting in disruption of the [...] Read more.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a zoonotic parasite, can invade the human central nervous system (CNS) and cause acute eosinophilic meningitis or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. Mice infected with A. cantonensis show elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, plasminogen activators, and matrix metalloproteinase-9, resulting in disruption of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and immune cell infiltration into the CNS. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) regulates the permeability of the BBB, which affects immune cells and cerebrospinal fluid. This intricate interaction ultimately fuels the progression of brain damage and edema. This study aims to investigate the regulatory role of Cav-1 in the pathogenesis of meningoencephalitis induced by A. cantonensis infection. We investigated pathological alterations by triphenyl-tetrazolium chloride, brain water content, BBB permeability, Western blot analysis, and gelatin zymography in BALB/c mice after A. cantonensis. The study evaluates the critical role of Cav-1 regulation through the TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway, modulates tight junction proteins, influences BBB permeability, and contributes to brain damage in A. cantonensis-induced meningoencephalitis. Full article

13 pages, 594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Markers and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Extraintestinal Pathogenic Escherichia coli from Camel Calves Including Colistin-Resistant and Hypermucoviscuous Strains

by Domonkos Sváb, Zoltán Somogyi, István Tóth, Joseph Marina, Shantymol V. Jose, John Jeeba, Anas Safna, Judit Juhász, Péter Nagy, Ahmed Mohamed Taha Abdelnassir, Ahmed Abdelrhman Ismail and László Makrai

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060123 - 23 May 2024

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Abstract

Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) strains are capable of causing various systemic infections in both humans and animals. In this study, we isolated and characterized 30 E. coli strains from the parenchymatic organs and brains of young (<3 months of age) camel calves [...] Read more.

Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) strains are capable of causing various systemic infections in both humans and animals. In this study, we isolated and characterized 30 E. coli strains from the parenchymatic organs and brains of young (<3 months of age) camel calves which died in septicemia. Six of the strains showed hypermucoviscous phenotype. Based on minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, seven of the strains were potentially multidrug resistant, with two additional showing colistin resistance. Four strains showed mixed pathotypes, as they carried characteristic virulence genes for intestinal pathotypes of E. coli: three strains carried cnf1, encoding cytotoxic necrotizing factor type 1, the key virulence gene of necrotoxigenic E. coli (NTEC), and one carried eae encoding intimin, the key virulence gene of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC). An investigation of the integration sites of pathogenicity islands (PAIs) and the presence of prophage-related sequences showed that the strains carry diverse arrays of mobile genetic elements, which may contribute to their antimicrobial resistance and virulence patterns. Our work is the first to describe ExPEC strains from camels, and points to their veterinary pathogenic as well as zoonotic potential in this important domestic animal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Foodborne Zoonotic Bacterial Infections)

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23 pages, 7273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Perspective of the Epidemiology of Rabies in South Africa, 1998–2019

by Ayla J. Malan, Andre Coetzer, Cayla Bosch, Nicolette Wright and Louis H. Nel

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060122 - 22 May 2024

Viewed by 859

Abstract

Despite the implementation of various control strategies aimed at eliminating canine-mediated rabies, the disease is still endemic in up to 150 countries across the world. Rabies remains endemic to South Africa, with various reservoir species (both wildlife species and domestic dogs) capable of [...] Read more.

Despite the implementation of various control strategies aimed at eliminating canine-mediated rabies, the disease is still endemic in up to 150 countries across the world. Rabies remains endemic to South Africa, with various reservoir species (both wildlife species and domestic dogs) capable of maintaining rabies infection, and the epidemiology of the disease is yet to be adequately defined. As such, this study used surveillance data collected between 1998 and 2019 from the two diagnostic laboratories in the country for a statistical space–time analysis to determine regions where significant disease clusters could occur. In addition, the robustness of surveillance activities across the country was evaluated through the mathematical evaluation and visualization of testing rates based on the average number of samples tested per species group. In our study, various significant disease clusters were detected for domestic animals, wildlife and livestock. The significant disease clusters for domestic animals and livestock were primarily restricted to eastern South Africa, while the significant disease clusters in wildlife species were detected across northern and western South Africa. Furthermore, the testing rates identified districts from various provinces where surveillance activities could be considered inadequate, consequently influencing the geographical range of the observed clusters. These results could be used to direct intervention campaigns towards high-risk areas, while also allocating the required resources to improve surveillance in the surrounding areas where surveillance was deemed inadequate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Treatment and Risk Assessment of Rabies)

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12 pages, 4581 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Adaptation of Bulinus senegalensis and Bulinus umbilicatus to the Dry and Rainy Season in Ephemeral Pond in Niakhar (Senegal), an Area of Seasonal Transmission of Urogenital Schistosomiasis

by Diara Sy, Bruno Senghor, Cheikh Sokhna, Mamadou Aliou Diallo, Amélé Nyedzie Wotodjo, Doudou Sow and Souleymane Doucoure

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060121 - 22 May 2024

Viewed by 440

Abstract

Bulinus snails surviving drought play a key role in the seasonal transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis, although our knowledge of their adaptation to dry season is still limited. We investigated the survival dynamic and infestation by the Schistosoma haematobium of Bulinus snails during the [...] Read more.

Bulinus snails surviving drought play a key role in the seasonal transmission of urogenital schistosomiasis, although our knowledge of their adaptation to dry season is still limited. We investigated the survival dynamic and infestation by the Schistosoma haematobium of Bulinus snails during the dry and rainy seasons in a single pond in an area of seasonal schistosomiasis transmission in Senegal. During the rainy season, 98 (94.23%) B. senegalensis and six (5.76%) B. umbilicatus were collected, respectively. In the dry season, B. umbilicatus outnumbered B. senegalensis, but all five (100%) B. senegalensis collected were viable and alive after the interruption of aestivation by immersion in water, while only 7 of 24 (29.16%) B. umbilicatus collected emerged from their dormant state. The rate of infestation with S. haeamatobium during the rainy season was 18.2% (19/104), while all the viable snails collected during the dry season were negative. B. senegalensis and B. umbilicatus have different seasonal dynamics with no evidence of maintaining S. haematobium infestation during the drought. Further studies including more survey sites and taking account both snails biology and ecological conditions are needed to better understand snail adaptation to seasonal changes and their ability to maintain S. haeamatobium infestation during drought. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)

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10 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tobacco Use Behaviors and Associated Factors among Newly Diagnosed Tuberculosis Patients in Benin and Burkina Faso

by Abdoul R. Ouédraogo, Arnauld A. Fiogbé, Sonia Menon, Marius Atchéni Esse, Tandaogo Saouadogo, Adam Daouda, Adjima Combary, Gildas Agodokpessi, Georges Ouédraogo, Gisèle Badoum, Yan Lin and Kobto G. Koura

Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(6), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9060120 - 22 May 2024

Viewed by 793

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess tobacco use (TU) behaviors among newly diagnosed pulmonary TB (PTB) patients and identify associated factors in Benin and Burkina Faso. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 20 randomly selected TB clinics. To ensure a representative [...] Read more.

The objective of this study was to assess tobacco use (TU) behaviors among newly diagnosed pulmonary TB (PTB) patients and identify associated factors in Benin and Burkina Faso. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 20 randomly selected TB clinics. To ensure a representative study cohort, clinics were stratified during the sampling process. PTB patients were consecutively sampled in 20 of the clinics between 1 December 2021 and 30 September 2022. The study population comprised individuals aged 15 years and above who were newly diagnosed with PTB. Among the 1399 registered PTB patients, 564 (40.3%) reported a history of TU, including 392 (28.0%) current tobacco users and 172 ex-tobacco users. Cigarettes emerged as the predominant form of TU (86.2%), followed by smokeless tobacco (6.4%), and chicha smoking (2.6%). Factors independently associated with tobacco use were male gender (p < 0.001), being in Burkina Faso (p < 0.001), and an age of 25–59 years (p = 0.002). Our multicentric study reveals a substantial prevalence of tobacco use among TB patients, with cigarette smoking emerging as the predominant form. These findings underscore the imperative for implementing targeted cessation interventions within TB control programs. Special emphasis is warranted for male patients aged 25–59 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)

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Trop. Med. Infect. Dis., Volume 9, Issue 6 (June 2024) – 19 articles

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