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Best Practice & Research. Clinical... Jul 2024Systemic vasculitis encompasses a wide range of conditions characterized by varying degrees of inflammation in blood vessels. Although the etiology of vasculitis remains... (Review)
Review
Systemic vasculitis encompasses a wide range of conditions characterized by varying degrees of inflammation in blood vessels. Although the etiology of vasculitis remains unclear, accumulated data suggest that it is triggered in genetically predisposed individuals by the concurrence of certain environmental factors. The importance of the genetic component has been consistently supported by evidence of familial aggregation, differential prevalence by ethnicity, and multiple genetic associations with disease susceptibility and severity reported in recent years. The strongest association signals in most vasculitides correspond to genetic variants within the HLA region, suggesting an important role of the immune system in its pathophysiology. However, each type of vasculitis has distinct defining HLA association markers, likely due to disease-specific differences in antigenic drivers. Furthermore, other genetic polymorphisms located outside the HLA region play an important role in susceptibility to different vasculitides. More recent research has assessed the shared genetic susceptibility evident across different vasculitides. Future studies should focus on the identification of genetic markers that can serve as reliable biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response in systemic vasculitis.
PubMed: 38955656
DOI: 10.1016/j.berh.2024.101969 -
Trends in Parasitology Jul 2024Two studies defined how tuft cell acetylcholine promotes parasite expulsion. Billip et al. demonstrated that acetylcholine increases water secretion, to promote the...
Two studies defined how tuft cell acetylcholine promotes parasite expulsion. Billip et al. demonstrated that acetylcholine increases water secretion, to promote the 'weep' response. Ndjim et al. found that tuft cell acetylcholine has a direct effect on worm fecundity. Both processes are only effective in the remodeled epithelium when the rare tuft cells have become abundant.
PubMed: 38955655
DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.06.014 -
Veterinary Parasitology Jun 2024Epidemiologic monitoring of wild animals is always an important step in defining potential zoonoses that can threaten humans. Particular emphasis should be given to...
Epidemiologic monitoring of wild animals is always an important step in defining potential zoonoses that can threaten humans. Particular emphasis should be given to those zoonotic agents permanently cycling within wild animal populations and represent a permanent reservoir for other wild or domesticated animals that can be direct sources of disease for humans. In Croatia, there are two European jackal populations: the Dalmatian population (DP) that has been inhabiting the islands and coastal area along the Adriatic Sea since medieval times, and the South East European population (SEEP) that is found in continental Croatia. Research on Trichinella infections in jackal populations in Croatia was conducted from 2008 to 2022. During this 15-year period, we tested 186 jackal samples and confirmed infection in 47 individuals (25.3 %). The dominant species was T. spiralis, identified in 28 samples (60 %), T. britovi was found in 13 samples (28 %), while for six samples (12 %) the PCR test was unsuccessful. In both populations, the Trichinella species of the domestic cycle (T. spiralis) was found, though in varying ratios: in DP the ratio of identified species was 10:6 in favour of T. britovi, as opposed to 22:3 in favour of T. spiralis in SEEP. The frequency of infection with parasites from the genus Trichinella was significantly different in DP (22.9 %) than in SEEP (26.7 %) (p<0.001), while the larval count in analysed tissue did not differ by type of Trichinella species (p=0.1028). Infected jackals were found in nine of ten tested counties. The results were analysed statistically and the origin of tested and positive samples shown on a map of Croatia. Based on these findings, both jackal populations can be considered to represent an exceptionally important indicators of parasites from the genus Trichinella in Croatia, both for the sylvatic and domestic cycles. There is an evident need for epidemiological monitoring for members of both populations.
PubMed: 38955641
DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110239 -
Saudi Medical Journal Jul 2024To ascertain the prevalence of transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs) across diverse donor groups in the Najran province. Additionally, to establish a potential...
OBJECTIVES
To ascertain the prevalence of transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs) across diverse donor groups in the Najran province. Additionally, to establish a potential association between the development of TTI and the donors' blood group, as determined by the ABO/Rh blood grouping system.
METHODS
Blood donation data of 4120 donors, spanning from January to December 2020, were retrospectively reviewed. The blood were screened for TTI markers, including hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-hepatitis B core (anti-HBc), anti-hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV), anti-human immunodeficiency viruses 1 and 2 (anti-HIV1&2), anti-human T-lymphotropic virus types 1 and 2 (anti-HTLV-1&2), and syphilis antigen.
RESULTS
Positive TTI markers were detected in 10.9% of the donors. The most detected TTI marker was anti-HBc (8.9%), followed by HBsAg (0.7%). Other markers were individually detected in <1% of the donors. Anti-HBc-positive was significantly elevated among non-Saudi blood donors. There was an association between age groups and anti-HCV (=0.002), anti-HTLV (=0.004) and syphilis antigen (=0.02) markers positivity. The AB positive blood group exhibited the most positivity for TTI markers, followed by O positive blood group. Similarly, association was found between ABO group and HBsAg (=0.01), anti-HBc (=0.001), and anti-HCV (<0.001) markers positivity.
CONCLUSION
Emphasis on implementing robust screening measures for donated blood is underscored by this study. There is the need for future study to extensively evaluate TTI status to enhance our understanding of the trend in TTI.
Topics: Humans; ABO Blood-Group System; Adult; Hepatitis B Surface Antigens; Saudi Arabia; Male; Blood Donors; Retrospective Studies; Female; Middle Aged; Biomarkers; Syphilis; Young Adult; Transfusion Reaction; Prevalence; Adolescent; Hepatitis B; Hepatitis B Antibodies; HIV Infections
PubMed: 38955448
DOI: 10.15537/smj.2024.45.7.20240338 -
Acta Tropica Jun 2024Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), is prevalent worldwide. The fact should be emphasized that a considerable proportion... (Review)
Review
Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), is prevalent worldwide. The fact should be emphasized that a considerable proportion of individuals infected with T. gondii may remain asymptomatic; nevertheless, the condition can have severe implications for pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals. The current treatment of toxoplasmosis primarily relies on medication; however, traditional anti-toxoplasmosis drugs exhibit significant limitations in terms of efficacy, side effects, and drug resistance. The life cycles of T. gondii are characterized by distinct stages and its body morphology goes through dynamic alterations during the growth cycle that are intricately governed by a wide array of post-translational modifications (PTMs). Ubiquitin (Ub) signaling and ubiquitin-like (Ubl) signaling are two crucial post-translational modification pathways within cells, regulating protein function, localization, stability, or interactions by attaching Ub or ubiquitin-like proteins (Ubls) to target proteins. While these signaling mechanisms share some functional similarities, they have distinct regulatory mechanisms and effects. T. gondii possesses both Ub and Ubls and plays a significant role in regulating the parasite's life cycle and maintaining its morphology through PTMs of substrate proteins. Investigating the role and mechanism of protein ubiquitination in T. gondii will provide valuable insights for preventing and treating toxoplasmosis. This review explores the distinctive characteristics of Ub and Ubl signaling in T. gondii, with the aim of inspiring research ideas for the identification of safer and more effective drug targets against toxoplasmosis.
PubMed: 38955322
DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107283 -
Acta Tropica Jun 2024Strongyloidiasis has been a neglected parasitic infection caused by Strongyloides genus parasites. Despite assessment of S. stercoralis exposure in different vulnerable...
Strongyloidiasis has been a neglected parasitic infection caused by Strongyloides genus parasites. Despite assessment of S. stercoralis exposure in different vulnerable populations, seroprevalence in inmates worldwide remains to be fully established. Due to poor sanitation and lack of personal hygienic practices, incarcerated individuals have been considered prone to spread infectious illnesses. Accordingly, the present study has assessed exposure and associated risk factors for strongyloidiasis in women inmates and correctional officers at the Women's State Penitentiary of Parana, part of the third largest incarceration complex in Brazil at the time. Blood samplings were performed in 2020 and 2021from a total of 503 women inmates and 92 correctional officers. Participants voluntarily responded to an epidemiological questionnaire to assess associated risk factors to strongyloidiasis. Serological analysis was performed by ELISA for anti-S. stercoralis IgG detection. Statistical analysis was performed using R software, adopting a 5% level of significance. The data were submitted to univariate analysis by chi-square or Fisher´s Exact test for assessing the association among seropositivity and the variables. The variables with p-value < 0.2 in the univariate analysis were considered fit to be included in the logistic regression. In overall, 356/503 (70.8%; 95% CI: 66.7-74.6) inmates were seropositive for anti-S. stercoralis antibodies, with no statistically associated risk factor to seropositivity. A total of 57/92 (62.0%; 95% CI: 51.8-71.2) correctional officers were seropositive, and logistic regression revealed that individuals older than 50 years were more likely seropositive. In conclusion, the high endemicity observed herein has indicated a history of previous exposure to S. stercoralis and warned for a systematic strongyloidiasis screening for inmates, to prevent long term morbidity and disseminated infection during incarceration.
PubMed: 38955318
DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107301 -
The Science of the Total Environment Jun 2024Infectious diseases stem from disrupted interactions among hosts, parasites, and the environment. Both abiotic and biotic factors can influence infection outcomes by...
Infectious diseases stem from disrupted interactions among hosts, parasites, and the environment. Both abiotic and biotic factors can influence infection outcomes by shaping the abundance of a parasite's infective stages, as well as the host's ability to fight infection. However, disentangling these mechanisms within natural ecosystems remains challenging. Here, combining environmental DNA analysis and niche modelling at a regional scale, we uncovered the biotic and abiotic drivers of an infectious disease of salmonid fish, triggered by the parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae. We found that the occurrence and abundance of the parasite in the water-i.e., the propagule pressure- were mainly correlated to the abundances of its two primary hosts, the bryozoan Fredericella sultana and the fish Salmo trutta, but poorly to local abiotic environmental stressors. In contrast, the occurrence and abundance of parasites within fish hosts-i.e., proxies for disease emergence-were closely linked to environmental stressors (water temperature, agricultural activities, dams), and to a lesser extent to parasite propagule pressure. These results suggest that pathogen distribution alone cannot predict the risk of disease in wildlife, and that local anthropogenic stressors may play a pivotal role in disease emergence among wild host populations, likely by modulating the hosts' immune response. Our study sheds light on the intricate interplay between biotic and abiotic factors in shaping pathogen distribution and raises concerns about the effects of global change on pathogen emergence.
PubMed: 38955267
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174367 -
The American Journal of Tropical... Jul 2024Diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of death worldwide in children under 5 years old, after pneumonia. Fortunately, diarrhea is a preventable disease that can...
Diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of death worldwide in children under 5 years old, after pneumonia. Fortunately, diarrhea is a preventable disease that can be avoided by implementing basic home management strategies. Mothers are essential to its management and prevention; therefore, this study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers in Pakistan related to diarrheal disease prevention and management. The study was conducted using a cross-sectional design in three cities of Pakistan from September 2022 to December 2022. A questionnaire was used to collect data on mothers' sociodemographic characteristics and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the prevention and management of diarrheal diseases. A total of 356 mothers (81.7% of them were housewives, and 58.4% were 25-34 years old) participated in the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and tests of association. Significant associations were found between mothers' income, education, and ethnicity and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the prevention and management of diarrheal diseases (P <0.05). However, no significant association was found between the other variables. The knowledge and attitudes of the mothers regarding the prevention and management of diarrhea were satisfactory; however, their prevention-related practices and home-based management were unsatisfactory. Therefore, community education, formation of health and hygiene committees, and dissemination of user-friendly information are crucial for creating awareness about the prevention and management of diarrheal diseases. These measures can help improve the practices of mothers and reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases in Pakistan.
PubMed: 38955190
DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0655 -
Public Health Jul 2024In the American regions, Brazil accounts for 97% of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases, with a case fatality rate of approximately 10%. This study aimed to investigate...
OBJECTIVES
In the American regions, Brazil accounts for 97% of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases, with a case fatality rate of approximately 10%. This study aimed to investigate the VL mortality distribution in Brazil and identify high-priority and high-risk areas for intervention strategies.
STUDY DESIGN
This was an ecological study that analysed the spatial-temporal patterns of VL mortality in Brazilian municipalities.
METHODS
Age-standardised VL mortality rates from the Global Burden of Disease study from 2001 to 2018 were used. The distribution of mortality in the municipalities was assessed, and subsequently the Local Index of Spatial Autocorrelation (LISA) analysis was conducted to identify contiguous areas with high mortality rates. Scan analysis identified clusters of high spatial-temporal risks.
RESULTS
The highest mortality rates and clusters were in municipalities located in the Northeast region and in the states of Tocantins and Roraima (North region), Mato Grosso do Sul (Central-West region), and Minas Gerais (Southeast region). According to LISA, there was an increase in the number of municipalities classified as high priority from the first 3-year period (n = 434) to the last 3-year period (n = 644). The spatio-temporal analysis identified 21 high-risk clusters for VL mortality.
CONCLUSION
Areas with a high risk of VL mortality should prioritise preventing transmission, invest in early diagnosis and treatment, and promote the training of healthcare professionals.
PubMed: 38954883
DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2024.06.003 -
Aquatic Toxicology (Amsterdam,... Jun 2024This study examined the impact of sertraline, an antidepressant common in treated wastewater, on the host-parasite dynamics between parasitic freshwater mussel (Unio...
This study examined the impact of sertraline, an antidepressant common in treated wastewater, on the host-parasite dynamics between parasitic freshwater mussel (Unio tumidus, Unionidae) larvae (glochidia) and their host fish (Squalius cephalus, Cyprinidae). Employing a full-factorial design, both fish and glochidia were subjected to sertraline at the combinations of 0 µg L (control), 0.2 µg L (environmentally relevant concentration), and 4 µg L (elevated concentration, short-term exposure of the parasite). The results showed that long-term host exposure (involving intensive sertraline accumulation in the fish brain) marginally increased subsequent glochidia attachment success by 2 %, while parasite exposure at the same environmentally relevant concentrations had no detectable effect. There was also no effect of exposure of glochidia to 0.2 µg L of sertraline on their viability and encapsulation success during the initial parasitic stage. However, a significant alteration in attachment behavior, marked by a 3.3 % increase in attachment success and changes in the glochidia spatial distribution on the host body, was noted after 24 h of glochidia exposure to 4 µg L of sertraline. Importantly, this study provides the first evidence of sertraline transfer from exposed glochidia to nonexposed host fish, as indicated by elevated levels of sertraline (12.8 ng g) in the brain tissue of nonexposed hosts. These findings highlight the subtle yet significant effects of pharmaceutical pollutants on freshwater ecosystems but also underscore the importance of understanding the unexpected dynamics of such contamination to predict and address future ecological changes.
PubMed: 38954869
DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2024.107012