Immunological Responses to Tetanus and Influenza Vaccination in Donkeys

BACKGROUND

Donkeys are routinely vaccinated with protocols developed for horses, yet species-specific data on their immune responses are limited.

HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES

We hypothesized that donkeys exhibit robust T-cell-mediated immunity and regulatory adaptation after vaccination, comparable to horses.

ANIMALS

Thirty-six healthy, seronegative donkeys (34 mares, 2 stallions), aged 0.5-23 years (median 8 years), from two farms with similar housing and management conditions.

METHODS

Prospective study. Animals were selected based on clinical health assessment and confirmed seronegativity for tetanus and equine influenza. All received a multivalent vaccine containing tetanus toxoid and equine influenza antigens. Blood samples were collected at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months after vaccination. Flow cytometry assessed CD4+, CD8+, and CD4 + FoxP3+ T cells (primary outcomes), and monocyte subsets and B lymphocytes (PanB/CD21+) with intracellular IL-10, IL-17, and Ki67 (secondary outcomes). ANOVA with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.05) was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

CD4+ T cells increased from 25.1% ± 1.4% to 37.3% ± 0.7% at month 1, CD8+ from 20.6% ± 1.5% to 32.2% ± 0.9% at month 2 (p < 0.001). CD4 + FoxP3+ peaked at 11.7% ± 0.6% at month 1 (baseline 6.8% ± 0.8%), then returned to baseline. CD14 + MHCII+ and CD14 + MHCII- monocytes declined; CD14 - MHCII+ increased (p < 0.01). PanB/CD21+ cells decreased from 41.5% ± 1.8% to 29.0% ± 1.0%, with significant reductions in IL-10+, IL-17+, and Ki67+ subsets (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Donkeys exhibit strong T-cell and regulatory immune responses after vaccination, supporting the clinical relevance of applying equine vaccination protocols to donkeys.

Association of rotating shift work with incident irritable bowel syndrome: a large population-based prospective cohort study

Objectives

Limited epidemiological study has examined the association between rotating shift work and risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study aimed to investigate the association between shift work and risk of IBS and explore the potential mediating factors for the association.

Methods

A total of 268,290 participants from the UK Biobank were included. Cox proportional hazards model was used to examine the associations between shift work and the incidence of IBS. The mediation analyses were performed to investigate the mediating effects.

Results

Participants engaged in always/usually shift work showed a significantly increased risk of developing IBS (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03-1.23). Joint analysis indicated that, participants with both always/usually shift work and inadequate sleep duration had a 54% increased risk of IBS (HR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.35-1.82) compared to those with adequate sleep duration and never/rarely shift work; while participants with both always/usually shift work and insomnia-always had a 65% increased risk of IBS (HR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.43-1.90) compared to those with never/rarely shift work and never/sometimes insomnia. Mediation analysis revealed that sleep quality and anxiety/depression partially mediated the relationship between shift work and IBS incidence, contributing 16.1% (6.8-25.4%) and 3.6% (0.4-6.8%) of the mediation effect, respectively.

Conclusion

This study found that participants with always/usually shiftwork status had significantly increased risk of IBS, and this association may partially be mediated by anxiety/depression and sleep quality. Moreover, inadequate sleep duration and usually insomnia may intensify the effect of rotating shift work on the risk of incident IBS.

Genetically Predicted Body Composition and Risk of Surgical Site Infection: A Mendelian Randomization Study

Objective: This study employed uni-variable and multi-variable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) analyses, utilizing publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) data, to assess the causal relationship between body composition measures such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and the occurrence of surgical site infection (SSI). Patients and Methods: GWAS summary statistical data were obtained for BMI, WC, and SSI from the MRC Integrated Epidemiology Unit (MRC-IEU) database, inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the main analysis, and supplement sensitivity analysis (including heterogeneity test, pleiotropy analysis, leave-one-out analysis, and Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO)) was used to check the robustness of the results. Results: The MR analysis showed that the increase in BMI and WC predicted by genes had a substantial causal effect on the incidence of SSI (IVW: odds ratio [OR] = 1.003, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.002-1.004, p < 0.001; IVW: OR = 1.003, 95% CI = 1.002-1.005, p < 0.001), respectively, and the MVMR analysis showed that after jointly incorporating smoking and alcohol parameters, the impact of BMI and WC on SSI remained substantial (OR = 1.003, 95% CI = 1.002-1.004, p < 0.001; OR = 1.004, 95% CI = 1.002-1.005, p < 0.001). Conclusion: We further support the causal relationship between increased body composition including BMI and WC and the occurrence of SSI, highlighting the importance of SSI prevention in patients with obesity. Further research is required to mitigate the occurrence of surgical incisions in patients with obesity in the future.

The AMD-associated genetic polymorphism CFH Y402H confers vulnerability to Hydroquinone-induced stress in iPSC-RPE cells

Introduction

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative disease of the macula, is caused by an interplay of diverse risk factors (genetic predisposition, age and lifestyle habits). One of the main genetic risks includes the Y402H polymorphism in complement Factor H (FH), an inhibitor of complement system activation. There has been, and continues to be, much discussion around the functional consequences of this Y402H polymorphism, whether the soluble FH protein confers its risk association, or if the cells expressing the protein themselves are affected by the genetic alteration. In our study, we examined the cell characteristics of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which play a major role in retinal homeostasis and stability and which are synonymously linked to AMD.

Methods

Here, we employ RPE cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) generated from donors, carrying either homozygous 402Y (low risk) or 402H (high risk) variants of the CFH gene. RPE cells were treated with Hydroquinone (HQ), a component of cigarette smoke, to induce oxidative damage.

Results

Intriguingly, RPE cells carrying high genetic risk proved more vulnerable to oxidative insult when exposed to HQ, as demonstrated by increased cytotoxicity and caspase activation, compared to the low-risk RPE cells. The exposure of RPE cells to RPE conditioned medium, normal human serum (NHS) and inactivated NHS (iNHS) had minimal impact on cell cytotoxicity and caspase activation, nor did the presence of purified soluble FH rescue the observed effects. Considering the known connection of oxidative stress to proteotoxic stress and degrading processes, we investigated the unfolded protein response (UPR) and autophagy. When exposed to HQ, RPE cells showed an increase in autophagy markers; however, iPSC-RPE cells carrying high genetic risk showed an overall reduced autophagic flux.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that the degree of cellular susceptibility to oxidative stress is not conferred by soluble FH protein and other complement sources, but intercellularly because of the corresponding genetic risk predisposition. Our data support the hypothesis that RPE cells carrying high genetic risk are less resilient to oxidative stress.

TWEAK/Fn14 disrupts Th17/Treg balance and aggravates conjunctivitis by inhibiting the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway in allergic conjunctivitis mice

BACKGROUND

Allergic conjunctivitis (AC) affects people's daily life and work, especially the health of children. Although there are few relevant studies, Th17/Treg imbalance plays an important role in AC development. The aim of this study was to elucidate the effect of TWEAK/Fn14 on AC and Th17/Treg balance.

METHODS

Ovalbumin induced AC mouse model was utilized to observe the mechanism of TWEAK/Fn14 in vivo. Conjunctivitis was evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin staining, toluidine blue staining and AC clinical score. Flow cytometry was used to measure Th17 and Treg cell ratios. The level of Th17/Treg balance related factors and Nrf2/HO-1 signal was detected by ELISA, WB, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

In the AC state, disruption of Th17/Treg cell balance, increased TWEAK/Fn14 signaling level and conjunctival inflammation were observed. After TWEAK knockdown, Th17 cell differentiation was inhibited, Treg cell differentiation was promoted, and AC symptoms were alleviated in AC mice. Moreover, TWEAK knockdown caused an enhancement of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in the AC models. Treatment with Nrf2 inhibitor reversed these changes induced by TWEAK knockdown. Therefore, TWEAK/Fn14 regulated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to affect Th17/Treg cell balance and conjunctivitis in AC mouse models.

CONCLUSION

In summary, TWEAK/Fn14 caused Th17/Treg imbalance by inhibiting Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which might be one potential mechanism of the exacerbation of AC.

Comparison of Biomarkers Playing a Role in Pterygium Development in Pterygium and Recurrent Pterygium Tissues

Background/Objectives: Pterygium is a nonneoplastic elastotic degeneration characterized by subepithelial growth. It manifests as an ocular lesion originating from the bulbar conjunctiva, extending to the corneal surface, and reaching the visual axis in some cases. Although the exact cause is unknown, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation is considered the most significant contributing factor. Chronic irritation and actinic damage are likely responsible for the typical fibrovascular reactions observed in pterygium. Additionally, growth factors, cytokines, and matrix metalloproteinases play roles in the pathogenesis of pterygium. This study compared recurrent and primary pterygium cases at the molecular level to gain new insights into the etiology of pterygium. Methods: Total protein was extracted from surgical samples of patients with primary and recurrent pterygium, and the levels of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, and IL-10 were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Target gene expression levels were analyzed using the ΔΔCt method after cDNA synthesis from isolated RNA, with normalization to GAPDH and quantification performed with SYBR Green PCR Master Mix. Results: Among the studied cytokines, IL-10 levels were higher in primary pterygium than in recurrent pterygium (722.0 ± 600.9/421.4 ± 266.8) (p = 0.0054). Other cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, and TGF-β1) were detected at similar levels in both primary and recurrent pterygium (p = 0.2986). Additionally, the TGF-β1 gene expression was found to be significantly upregulated in recurrent pterygium tissue compared to primary pterygium tissue (p = 0.034). Conclusions: This increase suggests that TGF-β1 may contribute to the recurrence mechanisms of pterygium through processes such as fibroblast activation and tissue remodeling. The higher levels of IL-10 in primary pterygium compared to recurrent pterygium indicate an enhanced early protective response aimed at limiting pterygium progression and controlling the inflammatory process.

Examining the Association Between Overweight, Obesity, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common yet debilitating disorder of gut-brain interaction, characterized by gut-brain axis dysregulation, visceral hypersensitivity, and other comorbidities. Obesity has been hypothesized to be a risk factor linked to IBS, albeit evidence remains conflicting. Given the growing global prevalence of obesity and IBS, we performed a meta-analysis examining their purported association.

METHODS

Embase, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify studies reporting the prevalence and odds ratios (ORs) of IBS according to BMI categories. Random effects meta-analyses were used for the primary analysis.

RESULTS

From 1713 articles, 27 studies were included. Our findings showed that using study-defined categories for overweight, obese, and normal BMI, the odds of the diagnosis of IBS were not associated with overweight (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.89 to 1.17; p = 0.772) or obese BMI (OR 1.11; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.37; p = 0.309). The meta-analysis of study-reported adjusted odds ratios of IBS among individuals living with overweight or obesity also did not yield significant results. Further sensitivity analysis by the Rome criteria demonstrated a statistically significant association between obese BMI and IBS in studies using the Rome IV criteria (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.13 to 2.23; p < 0.01), with significant subgroup difference between studies using the Rome II, Rome III, and Rome IV criteria. Further sensitivity analysis using the different cut-off values and subgroup analysis by geographical territory did not yield significant associations.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, excess body weight may not be a primary driver of IBS risk. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies that account for changes in weight and other lifestyle factors, as well as detailed mechanistic investigations.

Aberrant Lipid Metabolism and Complement Activation in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) stands as a leading cause of severe visual impairment and blindness among the elderly globally. As a multifactorial disease, AMD's pathogenesis is influenced by genetic, environmental, and age-related factors, with lipid metabolism abnormalities and complement system dysregulation playing critical roles. This review delves into recent advancements in understanding the intricate interaction between these two crucial pathways, highlighting their contribution to the disease's progression through chronic inflammation, drusen formation, and retinal pigment epithelium dysfunction. Importantly, emerging evidence points to dysregulated lipid profiles, particularly alterations in high-density lipoprotein levels, oxidized lipid deposits, and intracellular lipofuscin accumulation, as exacerbating factors that enhance complement activation and subsequently amplify tissue damage in AMD. Furthermore, genetic studies have revealed significant associations between AMD and specific genes involved in lipid transport and complement regulation, shedding light on disease susceptibility and underlying mechanisms. The review further explores the clinical implications of these findings, advocating for a novel therapeutic approach that integrates lipid metabolism modulators with complement inhibitors. By concurrently targeting these pathways, the dual-targeted approach holds promise in significantly improving outcomes for AMD patients, heralding a new horizon in AMD management and treatment.

Immunogenicity of Abdala COVID-19 vaccine in Vietnamese people after primary and booster vaccinations: A prospective observational study in Vietnam

OBJECTIVES

We studied the immunogenicity after primary and booster vaccinations of the Abdala COVID-19 vaccine, a receptor-binding domain protein subunit vaccine, in Vietnamese people by determining the level of neutralization and cross-neutralization activities against the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 and its variants and SARS-CoV-1.

METHODS

We performed a prospective observational study, enrolling adults aged 19-59 years in Dong Thap province, southern Vietnam, and collected blood samples from baseline until 4 weeks after the booster dose. We measured anti-nucleocapsid, anti-spike, and neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and assessed the cross-neutralization against 14 SARS-CoV-2 variants and SARS-CoV-1. Complementary antibody data came from Vietnamese health care workers fully vaccinated with ChAdOx1-S.

RESULTS

After primary vaccination, anti-spike antibody and neutralizing antibodies were detectable in 98.4% and 87% of 251 study participants, respectively, with neutralizing antibody titers similar to that induced by ChAdOx1-S vaccine. Antibody responses after a homologous (Abdala COVID-19) or heterologous (messenger RNA BNT162b2) booster could neutralize 14 SARS-CoV-2 variants (including Omicron) and SARS-CoV-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Abdala COVID-19 vaccine is immunogenic in Vietnamese people. Enhanced antibody response after a booster dose could cross-neutralize 14 SARS-CoV-2 variants and SARS-CoV-1. Our results have added to the growing body of knowledge about the contribution of protein subunit vaccine platforms to pandemic control.

Acute phase proteins patterns as biomarkers in bacterial infection: Recent insights

Escherichia coli is a bacterium with command and pathogenic variants. It has been implicated in the induction of several inflammatory conditions. Finding a biomarker for infection began many years ago. The challenge of using acute phase proteins (APPs) as biomarkers for infection is a promising target for many researchers in this field. Many APPs have been studied for their roles as biomarkers of E. coli infection. The following review aims to highlight recent trials that have approved the use of adiponectin, amyloid A, ceruloplasmin, C-reactive protein, Haptoglobin, and Pentraxin 3 as biomarkers for E. coli infection and assess the obtained results. In conclusion, despite the existing approaches for the use of APPs as biomarkers in E. coli infection, we recommend more precise studies to enable these markers to be more specific and applicable in clinical fields. APPs could be markers for systemic inflammatory conditions, regardless of the causative agent.

Sputnik V-Induced Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Variants during the Dissemination of the Gamma Variant in Venezuela

The COVID-19 pandemic was characterized by the emergence and succession of SARS-CoV-2 variants able to evade the antibody response induced by natural infection and vaccination. To evaluate the IgG reactivity and neutralizing capacity of the serum of individuals vaccinated with Sputnik V (105 volunteers vaccinated) against different viral variants. IgG reactivity to the Spike protein (S) was evaluated by ELISA. A plaque reduction neutralization test was performed using different viral variant isolates. At 42 days post-vaccination, the frequency of recognition and reactivity to the S protein of the Omicron variant was lower compared to that of the other variants. In general, a higher average neutralization titer was seen against the ancestral variant compared to the variants, especially Omicron. However, some sera exhibited a higher neutralization titer to the Gamma variant compared to the ancestral variant, suggesting unapparent exposure during the clinical trial. Antibodies induced by Sputnik V can recognize, persist, and neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants, with Omicron being the one that best evades this response. These results represent a unique report on the humoral response induced by a globally lesser-studied vaccine in terms of efficacy and immune escape, offering insights into developing vaccines targeting unknown coronaviruses.

Overweight and vitamin D deficiency are common in patients with irritable bowel syndrome - a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disease with unknown etiology. Poor dietary intake with nutritional deficiency and overweight have been described to increase the risk of IBS. The aim of the present study was to compare weight and circulating levels of micronutrients in IBS compared with healthy controls.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with IBS and healthy volunteers were recruited. Participants had to complete a dietary diary book and the questionnaires Rome IV, IBS-severity scoring system (IBS-SSS), and visual analog scale for IBS (VAS-IBS). Weight and height were measured, and blood samples were drawn. C-reactive protein (CRP), cobalamin, folate, iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and 25-hydroxy (25-OH) vitamin D were analyzed. Differences were calculated between groups and generalized linear model for regressions was adjusted for false discovery rate (FDR).

RESULTS

IBS patients (n = 260) were elder than controls (n = 50) (44.00 (33.25-56.00) vs. 37.85 (30.18-45.48) years; p = 0.012). After adjustment for age, both weight (β: 5.880; 95% CI: 1.433-10.327; p = 0.010, FDR = 0.020) and body mass index (BMI) (β: 2.02; 95% CI: 0.68-3.36; p = 0.003, FDR = 0.012) were higher in patients. Among IBS participants, 48.1% were overweight/obese compared with 26.0% in controls (p = 0.007). Diarrhea-predominated IBS had highest weight (p < 0.001) and BMI (p = 0.077). CRP and cobalamin were higher in patients than controls (p = 0.010 vs. p = 0.007), whereas folate was highest in controls (p = 0.001). IBS patients had lower intake of vegetables (p = 0.026), dairy products (p = 0.004), and cereals (p = 0.010) compared with controls. Despite 21.5% of IBS patients were taking vitamin D supplements, 23.65% of them had vitamin D levels below 50 nmol/L, compared with 26.0% observed in the control group (p = 0.720). Vitamin D levels were lower in overweight than in normal weight IBS patients (60 (48-73) nmol/L vs. 65 (53-78) nmol/L, p = 0.022). Vitamin D correlated with cobalamin and folate but correlated inversely with TIBC and BMI. IBS patients had a high degree of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms, which were inversely associated with iron levels. Extraintestinal symptoms were associated with increased BMI.

CONCLUSION

IBS patients were often overweight or obese, with low vitamin D levels. High burden of extraintestinal symptoms were associated with overweight and lower iron levels.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05192603 (Date of registration 11/29/2021) and NCT03306381 (Date of registration 09/18/2017), respectively.

Consolidating data on the association of IL-6 and IL-10 polymorphisms with the development of glaucoma: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to investigate the association of IL-6 and IL-10 polymorphisms with susceptibility to glaucoma by analyzing all relevant individual studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant articles were gathered from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, WanFang, and CNKI databases up to 15 October 2023. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to evaluate the association strengths, along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Seven case-control studies involving 1408 cases and 1789 controls on the IL-6 -174 G>C polymorphism, and three studies with 675 cases and 1100 controls on the IL-6 -572 G>C were included. Moreover, three separate studies, each comprising 442 cases and 672 controls, investigated the IL-10 -592C>A, -819T>C, and -1082A>G polymorphisms. The combined data indicated a significant association between -592C>A, -819T>C, and -1082A>G at IL-10 gene and IL-6 -572 G>C with glaucoma susceptibility, with no correlation found for IL-6 -174 G>C.

CONCLUSIONS

The study found that IL-10 -592C>A, -819T>C, -1082A>G, and IL-6 -572 G>C polymorphisms were linked to glaucoma risk. However, no significant association was observed for IL-6 -174 G>C. These findings imply a possible connection between genetic variations in these genes and glaucoma risk. Further research is crucial to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and their significance in managing and preventing glaucoma.

Vitamin D and tear fluid cytokines in predicting outcomes in viral conjunctivitis - A new outlook

PURPOSE

To determine the association between systemic vitamin D (VD) and immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels with severity and ocular surface inflammatory profile in patients with epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC).

METHODS

210 eyes of 105 patients who were clinically diagnosed with EKC were included in the study. The levels of serum VD and serum IgE were measured. Schirmer's strip-based tear fluid (TF) was used to determine levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, TNFα, MMP9, sICAM1, and VEGF-A in a subset of patients.

RESULTS

Levels of VD were significantly ( P < 0.05) lower and levels of IgE were significantly higher in patients with severe forms of conjunctivitis compared to those with nonsevere forms. Majority of the patients with severe forms of the disease exhibited VD deficiency and/or abnormally high IgE. A negative correlation (r = -0.682; P < 0.0001) was observed between VD and IgE levels. TF levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, and sICAM1 were significantly higher in eyes with severe forms of conjunctivitis compared to those with nonsevere forms and controls. These factors showed a positive correlation ( P < 0.05) with IgE levels and a negative correlation ( P < 0.05) with VD levels.

CONCLUSION

Patients with severe forms of EKC exhibited VD deficiency and higher levels of IgE. Increased TF inflammatory factors demonstrated a disease causal relationship with VD and IgE. Hence, restoring the altered levels of VD and IgE to normal range would be pivotal in the prevention and management of severe conjunctivitis.

Clostridioides difficile infection: history, epidemiology, risk factors, prevention, clinical manifestations, treatment, and future options

SUMMARYClostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is one of the major issues in nosocomial infections. This bacterium is constantly evolving and poses complex challenges for clinicians, often encountered in real-life scenarios. In the face of CDI, we are increasingly equipped with new therapeutic strategies, such as monoclonal antibodies and live biotherapeutic products, which need to be thoroughly understood to fully harness their benefits. Moreover, interesting options are currently under study for the future, including bacteriophages, vaccines, and antibiotic inhibitors. Surveillance and prevention strategies continue to play a pivotal role in limiting the spread of the infection. In this review, we aim to provide the reader with a comprehensive overview of epidemiological aspects, predisposing factors, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tools, and current and future prophylactic and therapeutic options for C. difficile infection.

Aspergillus fumigatus Hypoxia Adaptation Is Critical for the Establishment of Fungal Keratitis

Purpose

The poor visual outcomes associated with fungal keratitis (FK) underscore a need to identify fungal pathways that can serve as novel antifungal targets. In this report, we investigated whether hypoxia develops in the FK cornea and, by extension, if fungal hypoxia adaptation is essential for virulence in this setting.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice were inoculated with Aspergillus fumigatus and Fusarium solani var. petroliphilum via topical overlay or intrastromal injection. At various time points post-inoculation (p.i.), animals were injected with pimonidazole for the detection of tissue hypoxia through immunofluorescence imaging. The A. fumigatus srbA gene was deleted through Cas9-mediated homologous recombination and its virulence was assessed in the topical infection model using slit-lamp microscopy and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Results

Topical inoculation with A. fumigatus resulted in diffuse pimonidazole staining across the epithelial and endothelial layers within 6 hours. Stromal hypoxia was evident by 48 hours p.i., which corresponded to leukocytic infiltration. Intrastromal inoculation with either A. fumigatus or F. solani similarly led to diffuse staining patterns across all corneal cell layers. The A. fumigatus srbA deletion mutant was unable to grow at oxygen levels below 3% in vitro, and corneas inoculated with the mutant failed to develop signs of corneal opacification, inflammation, or fungal burden.

Conclusions

These results suggest that fungal antigen rapidly drives the development of corneal hypoxia, thus rendering fungal SrbA or related pathways essential for the establishment of infection. Such pathways may therefore serve as targets for novel antifungal intervention.

Microbiota substances modulate dendritic cells activity: A critical view

Contemporary research in the field of microbiota shows that commensal bacteria influence physiological activity of different organs and systems of a human organism, such as brain, lungs, immune and metabolic systems. This influence is realized by various processes. One of them is trough modulation of immune mechanisms. Interactions between microbiota and the human immune system are known to be complex and ambiguous. Dendritic cells (DCs) are unique cells, which initiate the development and polarization of adaptive immune response. These cells also interconnect native and specific immune reactivity. A large set of biochemical signals from microbiota in the form of different microbiota associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and bacterial metabolites that act locally and distantly in the human organism. As a result, commensal bacteria influence the maturity and activity of dendritic cells and affect the overall immune reactivity of the human organism. It then determines the response to pathogenic microorganisms, inflammation, associated with different pathological conditions and even affects the effectiveness of vaccination.

ICAM2 is related to good prognosis in dendritic cell immunotherapy for cancer

Objective: To evaluate the behavior of adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and ICAM-2 in dendritic cell (DC) immunotherapy. Materials & methods: 88 female Balb/c mice were divided into experimental groups. Tumors and lymph nodes were evaluated 7 and 14 days after immunotherapy. Results: Higher mean fluorescence intensity of ICAM-1 in the lymph nodes and tumors in the tumor group at 14 days was observed. Higher mean fluorescence intensity of ICAM-2 in the tumor DC vaccine group was observed after 14 days. A positive correlation was observed in the lymph nodes with ICAM-1 against tumoral volume in the tumor group. A negative correlation was found between ICAM-2 and tumoral volume in the lymph nodes of the tumor group. Conclusion: An increase in ICAM-2 in tumor DC vaccine and a decrease in ICAM-1 suggests the DC vaccine positively influences the immune system and that ICAM-2 could be a marker of good prognosis.

Evaluation of the Abdala Vaccine: Antibody and Cellular Response to the RBD Domain of SARS-CoV-2

Abdala is a recently released RBD protein subunit vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. A few countries, including Mexico, have adopted Abdala as a booster dose in their COVID-19 vaccination schemes. Despite that, most of the Mexican population has received full-scheme vaccination with platforms other than Abdala; little is known regarding Abdala's immunological features, such as its antibody production and T- and B-cell-specific response induction. This work aimed to study antibody production and the adaptive cellular response in the Mexican population that received the Abdala vaccine as a booster. We recruited 25 volunteers and evaluated their RBD-specific antibody production, T- and B-cell-activating profiles, and cytokine production. Our results showed that the Abdala vaccine increases the concentration of RBD IgG-specific antibodies. Regarding the cellular response, after challenging peripheral blood cultures with RBD, the plasmablast (CD19+CD27+CD38High) and transitional B-cell (CD19+CD21+CD38High) percentages increased significantly, while T cells showed an increased activated phenotype (CD3+CD4+CD25+CD69+ and CD3+CD4+CD25+HLA-DR+). Also, IL-2 and IFN-γ increased significantly in the supernatant of the RBD-stimulated cells. Our results suggest that Abdala vaccination, used as a booster, evokes antibody production and the activation of previously generated memory against the SARS-CoV-2 RBD domain.

TNF is a critical cytokine in age-related dry eye disease

Aging is a complex biological process that is characterized by low-grade inflammation, called inflammaging. Aging affects multiple organs including eye and lacrimal gland. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a pleiotropic cytokine that participates in inflammation, activation of proteases such as cathepsin S, and formation of ectopic lymphoid organs. Using genetic and pharmacological approaches, we investigated the role of TNF in age-related dry eye disease, emphasizing the ocular surface and lacrimal gland inflammation. Our results show the increased protein and mRNA levels of TNF in aged lacrimal glands, accompanied by increased TNF, IL1β, IL-18, CCL5, CXCL1, IL-2, IL-2 receptor alpha (CD25), IFN-γ, IL-12p40, IL-17, and IL-10 proteins in tears of aged mice. Moreover, genetic loss of the Tnf-/- in mice decreased goblet cell loss and the development of ectopic lymphoid structures in the lacrimal gland compared to wild-type mice. This was accompanied by a decrease in cytokine production. Treatment of mice at an early stage of aging (12-14-month-old) with TNF inhibitor tanfanercept eye drops for eight consecutive weeks decreased cytokine levels in tears, improved goblet cell density, and decreased the marginal zone B cell frequency in the lacrimal gland compared to vehicle-treated animals. Our studies indicate that modulation of TNF during aging could be a novel strategy for age-related dry eye disease.

[Efectividad de la suspensión bacteriana sublingual en la prevención de infecciones de vías aéreas de repetición en pediatría]

Background

Upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) are very common in the pediatric population. Most of these infections are mild, but due to their chronicity they affect quality of life (QoL), in addition to high costs for medical care. The use of bacterial extracts (BE) that stimulate general immunity can reduce its frequency and improve the QoL of the patient.

Objective

Evaluate the effectiveness of a BE in the prevention of ARVI in children from 1 to 6 years of age.

Methods

Children between the ages of 1 and 6 years, with a diagnosis of RAVI, were randomized into 3 different groups, with medical follow-up at 6 and 12 weeks after the start. The EB was administered with different doses to each group. An ANOVA test with a Tukey post hoc is used for multiple comparisons (maximum type I error of 0.05).

Results

33 children (12 girls) with a mean age of 3.11 years were included. The average frequency of RAVI prior to treatment was 2.2 events/month and 0.9 and 0.4 events/month at 6 and 12 weeks, respectively. The IVARS were reduced by 76.9% at 3 months of treatment. (Graph). No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions

BE is safe and effective in reducing the frequency of RAVI in children, in agreement with the literature. There is not enough published scientific evidence, but the BE seems to have an application in the prevention and treatment of RAVI. Sublingual administration is comfortable in this age group.

Zinc-Organometallic Framework Vaccine Controlled-Release Zn2+ Regulates Tumor Extracellular Matrix Degradation Potentiate Efficacy of Immunotherapy

Tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) not only forms a physical barrier for T cells infiltration, but also regulates multiple immunosuppressive pathways, which is an important reason for immunotherapy failure. The cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway plays a key role in activating CD8+ T cells, maintaining CD8+ T cells stemness and enhancing the antitumor effect. Herein, a zinc-organometallic framework vaccine (ZPM@OVA-CpG) prepared by self-assembly, which achieves site-directed release of Zn2+ in dendritic cell (DC) lysosomes and tumor microenvironment under acidic conditions, is reported. The vaccine actively targets DC, significantly enhances cGAS-STING signal, promotes DC maturation and antigen cross-presentation, and induces strong activation of CD8+ T cells. Meanwhile, the vaccine reaches the tumor site, releasing Zn2+ , significantly up-regulates the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2, degrades various collagen components of tumor ECM, effectively alleviates immune suppression, and significantly enhances the tumor infiltration and killing of CD8+ T cells. ZPM@OVA-CpG vaccine not only solves the problem of low antigen delivery efficiency and weak CD8+ T cells activation ability, but also achieves the degradation of tumor ECM via the vaccine for the first time, providing a promising therapeutic platform for the development of efficient novel tumor vaccines.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) among Lebanese adults: unidentified IBS and associated factors

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most frequent functional gastrointestinal disorders, but the condition is still underdiagnosed. The high of rate of unidentified IBS by patients can be related to different factors. The aim of this study is to assess the rate of unidentified IBS among Lebanese adults and investigate the role of socio-demographic factors, anxiety, depression, insomnia and eating attitudes on IBS diagnosis.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among Lebanese adults older than 18 years between June 2022 and December 2022, using a self-reporting questionnaire distributed via social media.

RESULTS

A total of 425 participants was enrolled in the study with around 184 (46.8%) having a possible unidentified IBS. Higher psychological distress (aOR = 1.07) and insomnia severity (aOR = 1.08) were significantly associated with higher odds of having possible unidentified IBS whereas a higher household crowding index (aOR = 0.67) was significantly associated with lower odds of having possible IBS. The correlation of eating attitudes with cigarette smoking (aOR = 1.33; p = .025; 95% CI 1.04; 1.70) and insomnia severity with cigarette smoking (aOR = .89; p = .023; 95% CI .80; .98) were significantly associated with the presence of possible IBS. In nonsmokers, higher psychological distress (aOR = 1.07) and insomnia severity (aOR = 1.10) were significantly associated with higher odds of having possible IBS. In smokers, higher BMI (aOR = .78) was significantly associated with lower odds of having possible IBS, whereas higher eating attitudes scores (more inappropriate eating) (aOR = 1.40) were significantly associated with higher odds of having possible IBS.

CONCLUSION

The study highlighted the implication of raising awareness about IBS among the Lebanese population to promote early diagnosis and minimize the rate of unidentified IBS by patients. Initiation of appropriate treatment plans, tailored symptomatic management approach, and diet programs should be highly encouraged.

Longevity and Neutralizing Capacity of IgG Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Generated by the Application of BNT162b2, AZD1222, Convidecia, Sputnik V, and CoronaVac Vaccines: a Cohort Study in the Mexican Population

The WHO has approved the use of several vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic; experience over the last 2 years has indicated that dose demand can only be covered using more than one design. Therefore, having scientific evidence of the performance of the different vaccines applied in a country is highly relevant. In Mexico, 5 vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) were used, allowing a cohort study to analyze the generation of anti-S1/S2 IgG antibodies and anti-RBD antibodies with neutralizing activity at 0, 21, 90, and 180 days after vaccination. Five groups of participants were formed on the basis of the type of vaccine received and were divided on the basis of whether they previously had or did not have COVID-19. After completing the vaccination schedule, the seroprevalence was 95.5, 97.5, 81.0, 95.2, and 90.0% (BNT162b2, AZD1222, Convidecia, Sputnik V, and CoronaVac, respectively). Among the participants without COVID-19 prior to vaccination, the largest amount of antibodies in the 90-day period was observed in the BNT162b2 group, and the amount of antibodies in the Sputnik V group decreased the least over time. Even though the percentages of seroconversion obtained in this study were lower than those currently reported in other parts of the world, the tested vaccines are able, in most cases, to induce a good production of IgG antibodies anti-S1/S2 and neutralizing capacity. The fact that there are people who have not produced antibodies during the study leaves open some questions that must be investigated to avoid the appearance of serious cases of COVID-19. IMPORTANCE Since the start of the vaccination programs against COVID-19 in 2020, it was evident that due to global shortages, the demand for the dose required in Mexico could only be covered by acquiring different vaccines. Therefore, determining the effectiveness of these and the longevity of acquired immunity is extremely important in a scenario where SARS-CoV-2 circulation becomes endemic and booster doses are required periodically. Our data reveal significant differences both in the generation of antibodies as well as in their longevity for the vaccines applied in the country but suggest that, in general, the Mexican population can reach a high capacity to neutralize the virus, therefore, regarding less the variant for which they were designed.

The correlation between tic disorders and allergic conditions in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

Aim

To evaluate the correlation between tic disorders and allergies and to inform strategies for the treatment and prevention of tic disorders.

Methods

We conducted online searches of the MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, CNKI, CBM, WanFang, and VIP Information databases. Case-control studies and cohort studies related to tic disorders and allergic conditions were searched. Two researchers screened the literature, extracted data, and evaluated quality in strict accordance with the predetermined retrieval strategy and inclusion criteria. Finally, RevMan 5.4 software was used to conduct a meta-analysis. We used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach to rating the certainty of evidence about each allergy outcome as high, moderate, low, or very low.

Results

We obtained seven eligible studies involving eight allergic conditions. The following allergic conditions were significantly associated with the presence of a tic disorder: asthma (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.57-2.30, P < 0.001), allergic rhinitis (OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.90-3.57, P < 0.001), allergic conjunctivitis (OR = 3.65, 95% CI = 1.53-8,67, P = 0.003), eczema (OR = 3.87, 95% CI = 2.24-6.67, P < 0.001) and food allergy (OR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.56-4.99, P < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between atopic dermatitis, urticaria, drug allergy, and tic disorder.

Conclusion

The occurrence of tic disorders may be associated with the presence of certain allergic disorders. However, whether allergy is one of the causes of tic disorders remains unclear.

Systematic review registration

The registration number for this systematic review is PROSPERO: CRD42021231658.

Kinetic Changes in B7 Costimulatory Molecules and IRF4 Expression in Human Dendritic Cells during LPS Exposure

A key aspect of the inflammatory phenomenon is the involvement of costimulatory molecules expressed by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and their ability to secrete cytokines to set instructions for an adaptive immune response and to generate tolerance or inflammation. In a novel integrative approach, we aimed to evaluate the kinetic expression of the membrane and soluble B7 costimulatory molecules CD86, ICOS-L, PDL1, PDL2, the transcription factor Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 (IRF4), and the cytokines produced by monocyte-derived dendritic cells (Mo-DCs) after challenging them with different concentrations of stimulation with E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for different lengths of time. Our results showed that the stimuli concentration and time of exposure to an antigen are key factors in modulating the dynamic expression pattern of membrane and soluble B7 molecules and cytokines.

Increased Expression of TLR4 in Circulating CD4+T Cells in Patients with Allergic Conjunctivitis and In Vitro Attenuation of Th2 Inflammatory Response by Alpha-MSH

Ocular allergic diseases are frequently seen in ophthalmological clinical practice. Immunological damage is mediated by a local Th2 inflammatory microenvironment, accompanied by changes in circulating cell subsets, with more effector cells and fewer T regulatory cells (Tregs). This study aimed to evaluate the involvement of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in the immune regulation associated with perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC). We performed an Ag-specific stimulation during 72 h of culturing with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or α-MSH in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), analyzing the cell subsets and cytokines induced by the stimuli. We also determined α-MSH in tear samples from healthy donors (HD) or PAC patients. Our findings demonstrate an immunological dysregulation characterized by an increased frequency of CD4+TLR4+ in the PBMC of patients with PAC, compared to HD. Most of these CD4+TLR4+ cells were also CD25+, and when α-MSH was added to the culture, the percentage of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ increased significantly, while the percentage of CD69+ cells and cytokines IL-4 and IL-6 were significantly decreased. In tears, we found an increased concentration of α-MSH in PAC patients, compared with HD. These findings indicate a novel mechanism involved in controlling ocular allergic diseases, in which α-MSH diminishes the concentration of IL-6 and IL-4, restoring the frequency of Tregs and down-regulating CD4 activation. Moreover, we demonstrated the involvement of CD4+TLR4+ cells as an effector cell subset in ocular allergy.

Immune Response against Adenovirus in Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Immunocompetent Children

During acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURTIs) caused by Adenoviruses, the mix of severe clinical presentation, together with elevation of white blood cells (WBCs) and C-reactive protein (CRP), often mimicking bacterial infection, leads to an inappropriate use of antibiotics. We studied 23 immunocompetent children admitted to our Pediatric Emergency Unit with signs of acute Adenoviral AURTIs, aiming at better clarifying the biological background sustaining this clinical presentation. Infection etiology was tested with nasopharyngeal swabs, serology, and DNA-PCR. During fever peaks and subsequent recovery, we assessed WBC count with differential, CRP, procalcitonin, serum concentration of six inflammatory cytokines, and lymphocyte subset populations. Results: IL-6 and IL-8 were found elevated in the acute phase, whereas a significant decrease during recovery was found for IL-6 and IL-10. We highlighted an increase of B lymphocytes in the acute phase; conversely, during recovery, an increase in T regulatory cells was noted. Monocytes and leukocytes were found markedly elevated during fever peaks compared to convalescence. All patients recovered uneventfully. The composition of lymphocyte population subsets and serum alterations are the main drivers of an overprescribed antibiotic. Examination of hospital admissions and performance is needed in further investigations to rule out bacterial infections or inflammatory syndromes.

Activation of IL-10+ B cells: A novel immunomodulatory mechanism for therapeutic bacterial suspensions

Objectives:

Bacterial components are used to improve immune responses in patients with respiratory infections. Pharmacological formulations of bacterial components include a mixture of bacterial antigens, some of which are complete inactivated bacteria, that is, named bacterial suspensions; while others are fragments of bacteria, which are presented as bacterial lysates. Although bacterial lysates have been broadly used as immune-stimulators, the biological support for the therapeutic effectiveness of bacterial suspension has not yet been studied. Thus, the aim of our study was to investigate the immunological activity induced by bacterial suspension.

Methods:

This work was an exploratory translational study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained from healthy donors and cultured in time–dose dependent assays with a commercial bacterial suspension. Flow cytometry was used for phenotypic analysis and for determining soluble cytokines in culture supernatants.

Results:

We observed that bacterial suspension activates B cells in a dose-dependent manner. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were able to secrete IL-6 and IL-10 after 24 h of bacterial suspension stimulation. TLR2 expression was observed mainly on CD19+ CD38^Lo B cells after 72 h of culture; remarkably, most of the TLR2+ CD19+ cells were also IL-10+.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that bacterial suspension induces the activation of B cell subsets as well as the secretion of IL-6 and IL-10. Expression of TLR2 on CD19+ cells could act as an activation loop of IL-10+ B regulatory cells. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed at the end of this article.