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Infectious Diseases of Poverty Jun 2024Human parasitic infections caused by Adenophorean nematodes encompass a range of diseases, including dioctophymiasis, trichuriasis, capillariasis, trichinellosis, and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Human parasitic infections caused by Adenophorean nematodes encompass a range of diseases, including dioctophymiasis, trichuriasis, capillariasis, trichinellosis, and myositis. These infection can result in adverse impacts on human health and cause societal and economic concerns in tropical and subtropical regions.
METHODS
This review conducted searches in PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar for relevant studies that published in established databases up to April 26, 2024. Studies that focused on the common morphology, life cycle, disease distribution, clinical manifestations, and prevention and control strategies for Adenophorean parasitic diseases in humans were included.
RESULTS
Adenophorean nematodes exhibit shared morphological characteristics with a four-layered cuticle; uninucleate epidermal cells; pseudocoelom with six or more coelomocytes; generally three caudal glands; five esophageal glands; two testes in males with median-ventral supplementary glands in a single row; tail in males rarely possessing caudal alae; amphids always postlabial; presence of cephalic sensory organs; absence of phasmids; and a secretory-excretory system consisting of a single ventral gland cell, usually with a non-cuticularized terminal duct. Humans play two important roles in the life cycle of the nematode class, Adenophorea: 1) as a definitive host infected by ingesting undercooked paratenic hosts, embryonated eggs, infective larvae in fish tissue and meat contaminated with encysted or non-encysted larvae, and 2) as an accidental host infected by ingesting parasitic eggs in undercooked meat. Many organs are targeted by the Adenophorean nematode in humans such as the intestines, lungs, liver, kidneys, lymphatic circulation and blood vessels, resulting in gastrointestinal problems, excessive immunological responses, cell disruption, and even death. Most of these infections have significant incidence rates in the developing countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America; however, some parasitic diseases have restricted dissemination in outbreaks. To prevent these diseases, interventions together with education, sanitation, hygiene and animal control measures have been introduced in order to reduce and control parasite populations.
CONCLUSIONS
The common morphology, life cycle, global epidemiology and pathology of human Adenophorean nematode-borne parasitic diseases were highlighted, as well as their prevention and control. The findings of this review will contribute to improvement of monitoring and predicting human-parasitic infections, understanding the relationship between animals, humans and parasites, and preventing and controlling parasitic diseases.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Global Health; Nematoda; Nematode Infections; Parasitic Diseases; Life Cycle Stages
PubMed: 38902844
DOI: 10.1186/s40249-024-01216-1 -
Parasites & Vectors Jun 2024Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis caused by the SFTS virus (SFTSV). Understanding the prevalence of SFTSV RNA in... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis caused by the SFTS virus (SFTSV). Understanding the prevalence of SFTSV RNA in humans, vertebrate hosts and ticks is crucial for SFTS control.
METHODS
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the prevalence of SFTSV RNA in humans, vertebrate hosts and questing ticks. Nine electronic databases were searched for relevant publications, and data on SFTSV RNA prevalence were extracted. Pooled prevalence was estimated using a random effects model. Subgroup analysis and multivariable meta-regression were performed to investigate sources of heterogeneity.
RESULTS
The pooled prevalence of SFTSV RNA in humans was 5.59% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.78-9.15%) in those in close contact (close contacts) with infected individuals (infected cases) and 0.05% (95% CI 0.00-0.65%) in healthy individuals in endemic areas. The SFTSV infection rates in artiodactyls (5.60%; 95% CI 2.95-8.96%) and carnivores (6.34%; 95% CI 3.27-10.23%) were higher than those in rodents (0.45%; 95% CI 0.00-1.50%). Other animals, such as rabbits, hedgehogs and birds, also played significant roles in SFTSV transmission. The genus Haemaphysalis was the primary transmission vector, with members of Ixodes, Dermacentor, and Amblyomma also identified as potential vectors. The highest pooled prevalence was observed in adult ticks (1.03%; 95% CI 0.35-1.96%), followed by nymphs (0.66%; 95% CI 0.11-1.50%) and larvae (0.01%; 95% CI 0.00-0.46%). The pooled prevalence in ticks collected from endemic areas (1.86%; 95% CI 0.86-3.14%) was higher than that in ticks collected in other regions (0.41%; 95% CI 0.12-0.81%).
CONCLUSIONS
Latent SFTSV infections are present in healthy individuals residing in endemic areas, and close contacts with SFTS cases are at a significantly higher risk of infection. The type of animal is linked to infection rates in vertebrate hosts, while infection rates in ticks are associated with the developmental stage. Further research is needed to investigate the impact of various environmental factors on SFTSV prevalence in vertebrate hosts and ticks.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Phlebovirus; Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome; Ticks; Vertebrates; Prevalence; RNA, Viral
PubMed: 38902842
DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06341-2 -
Trials Jun 2024This trial is a parallel, two-arm, non-blinded cluster randomised controlled trial that is under way in Singapore, with the aim of measuring the efficacy of male...
BACKGROUND
This trial is a parallel, two-arm, non-blinded cluster randomised controlled trial that is under way in Singapore, with the aim of measuring the efficacy of male Wolbachia-infected Aedes aegypti deployments in reducing dengue incidence in an endemic setting with all four dengue serotypes in circulation. The trial commenced in July 2022 and is expected to conclude in September 2024. The original study protocol was published in December 2022. Here, we describe amendments that have been made to the study protocol since commencement of the trial.
METHODS
The key protocol amendments are (1) addition of an explicit definition of Wolbachia exposure for residents residing in intervention sites based on the duration of Wolbachia exposure at point of testing, (2) incorporation of a high-dimensional set of anthropogenic and environmental characteristics in the analysis plan to adjust for baseline risk factors of dengue transmission, and (3) addition of alternative statistical analyses for endpoints to control for post hoc imbalance in cluster-based environmental and anthropogenic characteristics.
DISCUSSION
The findings from this study will provide the first experimental evidence for the efficacy of releasing male-Wolbachia infected mosquitoes to reduce dengue incidence in a cluster-randomised controlled trial. The trial will conclude in 2024 and results will be reported shortly thereafter.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT05505682. Registered on 16 August 2022. Retrospectively registered. Last updated 11 November 2023.
Topics: Dengue; Animals; Wolbachia; Singapore; Male; Aedes; Humans; Incidence; Mosquito Vectors; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Mosquito Control; Female; Pest Control, Biological
PubMed: 38902790
DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08148-z -
BMC Public Health Jun 2024Aedes mosquitoes are the main vector of dengue infection, a global health threat affecting millions of people annually. Conventional prevention and control methods...
BACKGROUND
Aedes mosquitoes are the main vector of dengue infection, a global health threat affecting millions of people annually. Conventional prevention and control methods against dengue outbreaks have only achieved marginal success. Recognizing the complex issue at hand, a multilevel participatory approach is crucial. Thus, alternative strategies that involve community engagement are increasingly being considered and attempted. While community-based vector control programs have been conducted, sustaining behavioral changes among the population remains a challenge. This study aimed to identify the specific community needs in combating Aedes mosquitoes and dengue fever as a basis to guide the development of community-driven initiatives and foster a deeper sense of ownership in the fight against dengue.
METHODS
Between 1 August 2022 and 30 November 2022, we conducted a study in Hulu Langat district, Selangor, using a mixed-method design. All participants consented to the study, which comprised 27 participants (FGDs) and 15 participants (IDIs). The IDIs included two participants with a history of dengue fever, one community leader, one faith leader, seven local authorities, and four district health officers. Semi-structured interviews and discussions were performed among stakeholders and community members recruited via purposive and snowball sampling techniques. All interviews were audio-recorded before being analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.
RESULTS
These results derived from qualitative data explored the perspectives and needs of communities in combating Aedes mosquitoes and dengue fever. Interviews were conducted with various stakeholders, including community members, leaders, and health officers. The study identified the necessity of decisive actions by authorities to address the impact of the dengue epidemic, the importance of community engagement through partnerships and participatory approaches, the potential benefits of incentives and rewards to enhance community participation, and the need for sustained community engagement and education, especially via the involvement of young people in prevention efforts. These findings provide valuable insights into the design of effective strategies against Aedes mosquitoes and dengue fever.
CONCLUSIONS
In short, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive approach involving multiple stakeholders in the fight against Aedes mosquitoes and dengue fever. The approach should incorporate efforts to raise awareness, provide practical resources, and foster community responsibility. The active involvement of teenagers as volunteers can contribute to long-term prevention efforts. Collaboration, resource allocation, and community engagement are crucial for effective dengue control and a healthier environment.
Topics: Humans; Aedes; Dengue; Animals; Female; Male; Adult; Mosquito Control; Community Participation; Urban Population; Middle Aged; Mosquito Vectors; Indonesia; Qualitative Research; Needs Assessment; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Young Adult
PubMed: 38902692
DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18965-1 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2024Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disease associated with significant morbidity. A wide variety of infectious and non-infectious triggers have been... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disease associated with significant morbidity. A wide variety of infectious and non-infectious triggers have been identified to be associated with GBS. COVID-19 has gained attention in recent years for its role in GBS pathogenesis. Our study aims to review the literature on GBS and its epidemiological and pathophysiological association with COVID-19.
DESCRIPTION
Recent literature on GBS associated with COVID-19 infections, such as case reports, case series, systematic reviews, and large-scale epidemiological studies, were reviewed. We also reviewed studies that included vaccines against COVID-19 in association with GBS. Studies that focused on understanding the pathobiology of GBS and its association with infectious agents including COVID-19 were reviewed.
CONCLUSION
Despite a lack of consensus, GBS is strongly associated with COVID-19 infection. The exact pathophysiological mechanism regarding COVID-19 as a causative agent of GBS is unknown. Mechanisms, such as the proinflammatory state, triggering of autoimmunity, and direct viral invasion, are postulated and remain to be investigated. Adenovirus vector vaccines are most likely associated with GBS, and the consensual reports clearly suggest mRNA vaccines are associated with low risk and may be protective against GBS by reducing the risk of COVID-19 infection.
PubMed: 38899056
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1396642 -
Veterinaria Italiana Jul 2024Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease found in many parts of southern Europe, is transmitted in both humans and canines through the bite of phlebotomine sandflies, and can...
Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease found in many parts of southern Europe, is transmitted in both humans and canines through the bite of phlebotomine sandflies, and can present in a variety of ways, such as cutaneous, mucocutaneous, diffuse, and visceral. In Bulgaria there are endemic areas of canine leishmaniasis, with sporadic cases in humans. However, no detailed studies of the animal population and vectors have been performed. Here we describe a few clinical cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis in two districts in western Bulgaria: one endemic and one without previously detected cases in humans or dogs. Diagnosis was confirmed serologically and molecularly using both real time and conventional PCR. Specific anti-leishmanial antibodies were confirmed in three of the cases via ELISA, with 50% of them returning extremely high values. In the majority of the cases DNA fragments were detected in the skin or lymph node aspirate but not in the blood. This paper highlights the need for further studies updating the current knowledge on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and control of visceral leishmaniasis in the reservoir host population.
Topics: Dogs; Animals; Bulgaria; Dog Diseases; Leishmaniasis, Visceral; Male; Female; Leishmaniasis
PubMed: 38898792
DOI: 10.12834/VetIt.3128.23106.2 -
Veterinaria Italiana Sep 2023Ixodes ricinus is a hard tick that can infest a large array of hosts. It is mostly abundant in the cool, humid deciduous and coniferous woods and forests of Europe. All...
Ixodes ricinus is a hard tick that can infest a large array of hosts. It is mostly abundant in the cool, humid deciduous and coniferous woods and forests of Europe. All I. ricinus life stages are potential vectors of many diseases, most notably Lyme disease, which affects millions of people yearly. Lebanon, an Asian Mediterranean country with mild cool winters and hot dry summers, lacks many reports concerning ticks. A study on tick abundance and identification on dogs presented to veterinary facilities, over the course of the years 2020 and 2021 was done. Several species of ticks were identified, with the least abundant being I. ricinus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the tick species in the country. More studies on the distribution and abundance of I. ricinus in Lebanon should be made in order to properly estimate the pathogens it carries, and consequently implement the appropriate prophylactic measures concerning public health.
Topics: Animals; Lebanon; Dogs; Ixodes; Tick Infestations; Dog Diseases
PubMed: 38898791
DOI: 10.12834/VetIt.2743.18431.2 -
Veterinaria Italiana Jul 2024Trypanosomosis is a well-known sub-Saharan disease. The human form was discovered in The Gambia over 100 years ago. Canine trypanosomosis in The Gambia has never been...
Trypanosomosis is a well-known sub-Saharan disease. The human form was discovered in The Gambia over 100 years ago. Canine trypanosomosis in The Gambia has never been mentioned in the scientific literature, let alone the involvement of veranus species in its transmission to dogs. The disease's most important vector is the tsetse fly. This fly is abundant in The Gambia, and its infamy for transmitting the disease has been well established. A lot of research efforts have been put into understanding the critical role of this pest in the transmission of the protozoan and the disease in livestock. This report confirms the presence of the disease in domestic dogs in The Gambia, and three canine cases with varied clinical signs, different hematological pictures accompanying the disease, and different effective treatment approaches are reported. Early detection can prevent severe illness and help patients to recover better. This report enhances our understanding on canine trypanosomosis, transmission of the pathogen, and strategies for managing the disease. This report is significant, as it is the first mention of monitor lizards in the 'transmission of trypanosome parasites to dogs during the fighting between them.
Topics: Dogs; Animals; Dog Diseases; Male; Lizards; Female; Gambia; Trypanosomiasis; Insect Vectors
PubMed: 38898790
DOI: 10.12834/VetIt.3403.22962.2 -
Malaria Journal Jun 2024Elimination of malaria has become a United Nations member states target: Target 3.3 of the sustainable development goal no. 3 (SDG3). Despite the measures taken, the... (Review)
Review
Elimination of malaria has become a United Nations member states target: Target 3.3 of the sustainable development goal no. 3 (SDG3). Despite the measures taken, the attainment of this goal is jeopardized by an alarming trend of increasing malaria case incidence. Globally, there were an estimated 241 million malaria cases in 2020 in 85 malaria-endemic countries, increasing from 227 million in 2019. Malaria case incidence was 59, which means effectively no changes in the numbers occurred, compared with the baseline 2015. Jennifer Doudna-co-inventor of CRISPR/Cas9 technology-claims that CRISPR holds the potential to lessen or even eradicate problems lying in the centre of SDGs. On the same note, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mosquito-targeting gene drives (MGD) are perceived as a potential means to turn this trend back and put momentum into the malaria elimination effort. This paper assessed two of the critical elements of the World Health Organization Genetically modified mosquitoes (WHO GMM) Critical Pathway framework: the community and stakeholders' engagement (inability to employ widely used frameworks, segmentation of the public, 'bystander' status, and guidelines operationalization) and the regulatory landscape (lex generali, 'goldilocks dilemma', and mode of regulation) concerning mosquito-oriented gene drives (MGD) advances. Based on the assessment findings, the author believes that CRISPR/Cas-9-mediated MGD will not contribute to the attainment of SDG3 (Target 3.3), despite the undisputable technology's potential. This research pertains to the state of knowledge, legal frameworks, and legislature, as of November 2022.
Topics: CRISPR-Cas Systems; Malaria; Animals; Disease Eradication; Humans; Sustainable Development; Community Participation; Mosquito Vectors; Gene Drive Technology; Mosquito Control; Gene Editing
PubMed: 38898518
DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04996-x -
The Journal of Infection Jun 2024A BCG booster vaccination administered via the respiratory mucosa may establish protective immune responses at the primary site of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection....
BACKGROUND
A BCG booster vaccination administered via the respiratory mucosa may establish protective immune responses at the primary site of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The primary objective of this trial was to compare the safety and immunogenicity of inhaled versus intramuscular administered ChAdOx1-85A.
METHODS
We conducted a single-centre, randomized, double-blind, controlled phase 1 study (Swiss National Clinical Trials Portal number SNCTP000002920). After a dose-escalation vaccination in nine BCG-vaccinated healthy adults, a dose of 1×10 vp of ChAdOx1-85A was administered to twenty BCG-vaccinated adults that were randomly allocated (1:1) into two groups: aerosol ChAdOx1-85A with intramuscular saline placebo or intramuscular ChAdOx1-85A with aerosol saline placebo, using block randomisation. A control group of ten BCG-naïve adults received aerosol ChAdOx1-85A at the same dose. Primary outcomes were solicited and unsolicited adverse events (AEs) up to day 16 post-vaccination and Serious AEs (SAEs) up to 24 weeks; secondary outcomes were cell-mediated and humoral immune responses in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples.
FINDINGS
Both vaccination routes were well tolerated with no SAEs. Intramuscular ChAdOx1-85A was associated with more local AEs (mostly pain at injection site) than aerosol ChAdOx1-85A. Systemic AEs occurred in all groups, mainly fatigue and headaches, without differences between groups. Respiratory AEs were not different between BCG-vaccinated groups. Aerosol ChAdOx1-85A vaccination induced Ag85A BAL and systemic cellular immune responses with compartmentalization of the immune responses: aerosol ChAdOx1-85A induced stronger BAL cellular responses, particularly IFNγ/IL17+CD4+ T cells; intramuscular ChAdOx1-85A induced stronger systemic cellular and humoral responses.
INTERPRETATION
Inhaled ChAdOx1-85A was well-tolerated and induced lung mucosal and systemic Ag85A-specific T cell responses. These data support further evaluation of aerosol ChAdOx1-85A and other viral vectors as a BCG-booster vaccination strategy.
FUNDING
European Commission H2020 program (TBVAC2020 project, grant agreement 643381) via the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
PubMed: 38897242
DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2024.106205