Strategies for pneumococcal vaccination in older adults in the coming era

Pneumonia, predominantly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, remains a leading cause of global mortality. The 23-valent Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) and conjugate vaccines (PCVs) are vital measures to fight against it. This paper discussed the changes in pneumococcal vaccination strategies, particularly for older adults, as vaccine effectiveness and epidemiological patterns shift. While PPSV23 maintains effectiveness against invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), its effectiveness against pneumococcal pneumonia is declining. Conversely, PCV13 consistently demonstrates effectiveness against both IPD and pneumonia. Consequently, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends using PCVs, notably PCV20 and PCV15, over PPSV23. Japanese studies indicate a change in the efficacy/effectiveness of PPSV23 following PCV introduction in children, likely owing to serotype replacement and herd immunity. Additionally, recent data reveals a plateau in the reduction of PCV13 and PPSV23-covered serotypes, posing a challenge to current strategies. This paper indicates a paradigm shift in pneumonia management, acknowledging its chronic nature and potential to exacerbate other diseases. The future of pneumococcal vaccination lies in broader serotype coverage through PCVs, adapting to serotype changes driven by childhood vaccination programs. Furthermore, continuous research and vaccine development are crucial in this evolving field.

Changes in vaccine coverage and incidence of acute gastroenteritis and severe rotavirus gastroenteritis in children <5 years in Shibata City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan

Rotavirus (RV) vaccines were first introduced in 2011 and adopted for universal vaccination in 2020 in Japan. However, the effectiveness of RV vaccines after being adopted for universal vaccination in 2020 has not been reported. Because of the easy accessibility of clinics in Japan, many children are not usually hospitalized for RV gastroenteritis (RVGE). Therefore, in order to evaluate the impact of the RV vaccine since 2008, we investigated the incidence of hospitalization for RVGE as well as the frequency of children aged < 5 years who received medical treatment for severe RVGE at clinics in Shibata City, Japan. The RV vaccine coverage rate was 94.0% (1,046/1,113) in Shibata City after universal vaccination in 2020; this was a significant increase from previous rates. The incidence per 1000 person - years for RVGE hospitalization and severe RVGE at clinics were significantly higher among children aged < 3 years than in previous time periods. The incidence in children with all acute gastroenteritis (AGE) decreased significantly after universal vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proportion of severe RVGE among all AGE cases also decreased significantly after universal vaccination among children aged < 3 years (0.0%) and those aged 3-4 years (0.6%). There were significant differences in the distribution of RV genotypes isolated from the feces of children with RVGE between different eras divided by RV vaccination rates, especially G1P[8], which was the major genotype before it recently almost disappeared. Further studies are warranted to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A review of safety and immunogenicity of a novel measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine

Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are highly infectious viral diseases affecting young children and have high secondary attack rates. Present MMR vaccines show consistent seroconversion rates for anti-measles and anti-rubella antibodies with variable responses for anti-mumps antibodies. Most common strains for MMR vaccines, currently available in India, are the Edmonston-Zagreb measles strain, Leningrad Zagreb (L-Z) mumps strain, and the RA 27/3 rubella strain. L-Z strain of mumps virus has been found to be associated with aseptic meningitis by different studies from different parts of the world including India. Recently, a novel freeze-dried MMR vaccine developed by Zydus Lifesciences (Zyvac MMR) contains Edmonston Zagreb measles strain, Hoshino mumps strain, and RA 27/3 rubella strain. The Hoshino strain is WHO approved and was found to induce interferon gamma production. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive appraisal of the data available on the safety and immunogenicity of the novel MMR vaccine.

Emergence of multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus haemolyticus in neonatal intensive care unit in Southern France, a genomic study

An emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus haemolyticus has been observed in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Nîmes University Hospital in southern France. A case-control analysis was conducted on 96 neonates, to identify risk factors associated with S. haemolyticus infection, focusing on clinical outcomes. Forty-eight MDR S. haemolyticus strains, isolated from neonates between October 2019 and July 2022, were investigated using routine in vitro procedures and whole-genome sequencing. Additionally, five S. haemolyticus isolates from adult patients were sequenced to identify clusters circulating within the hospital environment. The incidence of neonatal S. haemolyticus was significantly associated with low birth weight, lower gestational age, and central catheter use (p < 0.001). Sepsis was the most frequent clinical manifestation in this series (20/46, 43.5%) and was associated with five deaths. Based on whole-genome analysis, three S. haemolyticus genotypes were predicted: ST1 (6/53, 11%), ST25 (3/53, 5.7%), and ST29 (44/53, 83%), which included the subcluster II-A, predominantly emerging in the neonatal department. All strains were profiled in silico to be resistant to methicillin, erythromycin, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones, consistent with in vitro antibiotic susceptibility tests. Moreover, in silico prediction of biofilm formation and virulence-encoding genes supported the association of ST29 with severe clinical outcomes, while the persistence in the NICU could be explained by the presence of antiseptic and heavy metal resistance-encoding genes. The clonality of S. haemolyticus ST29 subcluster II-A isolates confirms healthcare transmission causing severe infections. Based on these results, reinforced hygiene measures are necessary to eradicate the nosocomial transmission of MDR strains.

H7N6 highly pathogenic avian influenza in Mozambique, 2023

On 13 October 2023, the National Directorate for Livestock Development in Mozambique was notified of a suspected outbreak of avian influenza in commercial layers. Samples were screened by real-time and conventional RT-PCR and were positive for both H7 and N6. Full genome sequences were obtained for three representative samples. Sequence analysis of the H7 cleavage site confirmed that the viruses were highly pathogenic (i.e. 333- PEPPKGPRFRR/GLF-346). In addition, the H7 and N6 sequences were highly similar (from 99.4-99.5% and 99.6-99.7% for the HA gene and the NA gene, respectively) to the sequences of a H7N6 virus identified in the Republic of South Africa in May 2023 indicating a similar origin of the viruses. The identification of H7N6 HPAIV in Mozambique has important implications for disease management and food security in the region.

Detecting and genotyping high-risk human papillomavirus among male patients during 2015-2023 in Beijing, China

Few studies focused on human papillomavirus (HPV) in male patients. This study aimed to explore the detection rate and genotyping of HPV among male patients in Beijing to provide a reference for formulating prevention strategies for HPV infection. The cross-sectional study was conducted in Beijing Chaoyang Hospital from November 2015 to March 2023. It covered male patients from the urology and dermatology departments. Fifteen high-risk HPV genotypes were detected by the multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction method. The overall detection rate of HPV was 25.19% (1288/5114, 95% confidence interval [CI] 24.00%-26.38%), of which the single infection rate was 16.99% (869/5114, 95% CI 15.97%-18.05%) and the co-infection rate was 8.19% (419/5114, 95% CI 7.46%-8.98%). The detection rate of HPV was 40.77% (521/1278), 35.58% (58/163), 32.69% (101/309), 31.91% (60/188), 12.63% (299/2367), and 32.35% (131/405) among male patients with balanitis, warts, rash, urethritis, prostatitis, and other urinary inflammation, respectively (P < 0.001). The top five HPV genotypes were HPV-52, HPV-58, HPV-16, HPV-51, and HPV-66. After the first positive HPV test, the proportion of male patients who turned negative was 22.47% within 3 months, 26.40% within 3-6 months, 24.72% within 6-12 months, 17.98% within 12-24 months, and 8.43% more than 24 months. The detection rate of HPV was high among male patients from the urology and dermatology departments in Beijing, which should be considered to develop HPV vaccines with better prevention effects.

The first reported cases of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus from domestic sick camel to humans in China

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne disease with an increasing annual incidence rate. In this case report, we presented two patients infected with the SFTS virus, suggesting a potential direct transmission route from camels to humans through blood contact. Both patients developed symptoms after engaging in the slaughtering of one sick camel, while their family members living in the same environment or co-diners remained unaffected. Subsequent detection revealed a high viral load of SFTS virus, reaching 1010 viral RNA copies/ml, in the sample obtained from the sick camel. Metagenomic sequencing did not identify any other pathogens. The SFTS virus was successfully isolated from both patient and camel samples. The complete nucleotide sequences obtained from the infected patients demonstrated a remarkable 100% similarity to those found in the camel, and genetic evolution analysis classified the virus as genotype A. Additionally, partial sequences of the SFTS virus were identified in ticks captured from the camel rearing environment, however, these sequences showed only 95.9% similarity to those found in camel and humans. Furthermore, immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibodies were detected in serum samples collected from the patient. Our findings provide evidence that camel may serve as a competent reservoir for transmitting the SFTS virus to humans. Further in vitro investigations into SFTS virus infections in large animals are warranted to understand their role in viral maintenance and transmission.

Characterization of the diversity of type IV secretion system-encoding plasmids in Acinetobacter

The multi-drug resistant pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii has gained global attention as an important clinical challenge. Owing to its ability to survive on surfaces, its capacity for horizontal gene transfer, and its resistance to front-line antibiotics, A. baumannii has established itself as a successful pathogen. Bacterial conjugation is a central mechanism for pathogen evolution. The epidemic multidrug-resistant A. baumannii ACICU harbours a plasmid encoding a Type IV Secretion System (T4SS) with homology to the E. coli F-plasmid, and plasmids with homologous gene clusters have been identified in several A. baumannii sequence types. However the genetic and host strain diversity, global distribution, and functional ability of this group of plasmids is not fully understood. Using systematic analysis, we show that pACICU2 belongs to a group of almost 120 T4SS-encoding plasmids within four different species of Acinetobacter and one strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae from human and environmental origin, and globally distributed across 20 countries spanning 4 continents. Genetic diversity was observed both outside and within the T4SS-encoding cluster, and 47% of plasmids harboured resistance determinants, with two plasmids harbouring eleven. Conjugation studies with an extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strain showed that the XDR plasmid could be successfully transferred to a more divergent A. baumanii, and transconjugants exhibited the resistance phenotype of the plasmid. Collectively, this demonstrates that these T4SS-encoding plasmids are globally distributed and more widespread among Acinetobacter than previously thought, and that they represent an important potential reservoir for future clinical concern.

A screening study on the detection strain of Coxsackievirus A6: the key to evaluating neutralizing antibodies in vaccines

The increasing incidence of diseases caused by Coxsackievirus A6 (CV-A6) and the presence of various mutants in the population present significant public health challenges. Given the concurrent development of multiple vaccines in China, it is challenging to objectively and accurately evaluate the level of neutralizing antibody response to different vaccines. The choice of the detection strain is a crucial factor that influences the detection of neutralizing antibodies. In this study, the National Institutes for Food and Drug Control collected a prototype strain (Gdula), one subgenotype D1, as well as 13 CV-A6 candidate vaccine strains and candidate detection strains (subgenotype D3) from various institutions and manufacturers involved in research and development. We evaluated cross-neutralization activity using plasma from naturally infected adults (n = 30) and serum from rats immunized with the aforementioned CV-A6 strains. Although there were differences between the geometric mean titer (GMT) ranges of human plasma and murine sera, the overall trends were similar. A significant effect of each strain on the neutralizing antibody test (MAX/MIN 48.0 ∼16410.3) was observed. Among all strains, neutralization of the S112 strain by 15 different sera resulted in higher neutralizing antibody titers (GMTS112 = 132.0) and more consistent responses across different genotypic immune sera (MAX/MIN = 48.0). Therefore, S112 may serve as a detection strain for NtAb testing in various vaccines, minimizing bias and making it suitable for evaluating the immunogenicity of the CV-A6 vaccine.

Genomic characters of Anaplasma bovis and genetic diversity in China

The emergence of Anaplasma bovis or A. bovis-like infection in humans from China and the United States of America has raised concern about the public health importance of this pathogen. Although A. bovis has been detected in a wide range of ticks and mammals in the world, no genome of the pathogen is available up to now, which has prohibited us from better understanding the genetic basis for its pathogenicity. Here we describe an A. bovis genome from metagenomic sequencing of an infected goat in China. Anaplasma bovis had the smallest genome of the genus Anaplasma, and relatively lower GC content. Phylogenetic analysis of single-copy orthologue sequence showed that A. bovis was closely related to A. platys and A. phagocytophilum, but relatively far from intraerythrocytic Anaplasma species. Anaplasma bovis had 116 unique orthogroups and lacked 51 orthogroups in comparison to other Anaplasma species. The virulence factors of A. bovis were significantly less than those of A. phagocytophilum, suggesting less pathogenicity of A. bovis. When tested by specific PCR assays, A. bovis was detected in 23 of 29 goats, with an infection rate up to 79.3% (95% CI: 64.6% ∼94.1%). The phylogenetic analyses based on partial 16S rRNA, gltA and groEL genes indicated that A. bovis had high genetic diversity. The findings of this study lay a foundation for further understanding of the biological characteristics and genetic diversity of A. bovis, and will facilitate the formulation of prevention and control strategies.

SARS-CoV-2 infection prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes among non-clinical-related service providers in a national healthcare system

Health care workers (HCWs) may be at a variable risk of SARS-CoV2 infection. Regardless of their involvement in providing direct clinical treatment, most of the prior research had included all HCWs. Understanding infection rates, risk factors and outcomes among different subgroups of HCWs is crucial. From February 28, 2020 to January 1, 2022, we conducted a retrospective analysis encompassing all full-time non-clinical staff (NCS) subcontracted with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) facilities. To determine current or previous SARS-CoV2 infection, all personnel underwent RT-PCR and/or serology testing. To identify the demographic factors linked to the risk of infection, we utilized Cox-Hazard regression analysis. Herein 3158/6231 (50.7%) subcontracted NCS tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR or serology during the research period. The median age was 30 years (IQR 25,35), 69.8% of the population were males, 82.4% were from South Asia, 86.6% did not have any concomitant conditions. 6032 (96.8%) of the population lived in shared housing, while 4749 (76.2%) had low to median levels of education. While infection (PCR positive with or without seropositive results) was independently predicted by male gender, working in the catering, laundry, and security sectors and being intermediate (7-12 years of education), lower (0-6 years of education), higher (exposure to confirmed case), and having symptoms. Male gender, working in the security sectors and being intermediate (7-12 years of education) were independently associated with accidently detected cases (PCR negative and seropositive). 299 (4.8%) required hospitalization, of them 3 cases were severe pneumonia and one required ICU admission without mechanical ventilation, with no deaths reported. In conclusion Infection rates among NCS are high. The majority are asymptomatic and may contribute to ongoing illness spread in the public or in healthcare facilities. During a pandemic, routine screening of this population is crucial and may aid in containing the spread of infection.

Clonal Distribution and Its Association With the Carbapenem Resistance Mechanisms of Carbapenem-Non-Susceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates From Korean Hospitals

Background

Carbapenem resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a serious global health problem. We investigated the clonal distribution and its association with the carbapenem resistance mechanisms of carbapenem-non-susceptible P. aeruginosa isolates from three Korean hospitals.

Methods

A total of 155 carbapenem-non-susceptible P. aeruginosa isolates collected between 2011 and 2019 were analyzed for sequence types (STs), antimicrobial susceptibility, and carbapenem resistance mechanisms, including carbapenemase production, the presence of resistance genes, OprD mutations, and the hyperproduction of AmpC β-lactamase.

Results

Sixty STs were identified in carbapenem-non-susceptible P. aeruginosa isolates. Two high-risk clones, ST235 (N=41) and ST111 (N=20), were predominant; however, sporadic STs were more prevalent than high-risk clones. The resistance rate to amikacin was the lowest (49.7%), whereas that to piperacillin was the highest (92.3%). Of the 155 carbapenem-non-susceptible isolates, 43 (27.7%) produced carbapenemases. Three metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) genes, blaIMP-6 (N=38), blaVIM-2 (N=3), and blaNDM-1 (N=2), were detected. blaIMP-6 was detected in clonal complex 235 isolates. Two ST773 isolates carried blaNDM-1 and rmtB. Frameshift mutations in oprD were identified in all isolates tested, regardless of the presence of MBL genes. Hyperproduction of AmpC was detected in MBL gene-negative isolates.

Conclusions

Frameshift mutations in oprD combined with MBL production or hyperproduction of AmpC are responsible for carbapenem resistance in P. aeruginosa. Further attention is required to curb the emergence and spread of new carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa clones.

Fate of florfenicol and linezolid resistance genes and their bacterial hosts during two waste treatment models in swine feedlots

Florfenicol resistance genes (FRGs) are widely present in livestock farms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the removal efficiencies of FRGs as well as the relationships between FRGs, mobile genetic elements (MGEs) and bacterial communities during the natural drying (ND) and anaerobic digestion (AD) processes of manure treatment in swine farms by combining bacterial isolation, quantitative PCR and metagenomic approaches. Solid manure showed a higher abundance of FRGs than fresh manure and was the main contamination source of fexA and fexB in ND farms, whilst biogas slurry displayed a lower abundance of FRGs than the wastewater in AD farms. Moreover, fresh manure and wastewater showed a high abundance of optrA, and wastewater was the main contamination source of cfr in both ND and AD farms. Both optrA/fexA-positive enterococci and cfr/fexA-positive staphylococci were mainly isolated along the farms' treatment processes. The cfr-positive staphylococci were highly prevalent in wastewater (57.14 % - 100 %) and may be associated with nasal-derived cfr-positive porcine staphylococci. An increased abundance of Enterococcus, Jeotgalibaca and Vagococcus in the bacterial community structures may account for the high optrA abundance in wastewater and Jeotgalibaca may be another potential host of optrA. Furthermore, the abundance of FRG-related MGEs increased by 22.63 % after the ND process and decreased by 66.96 % in AD farms. A significant correlation was observed between cfr and ISEnfa4, whereas no significance was found between optrA and IS1216E, although IS1216E is the predominant insertion sequence involved in the transfer of optrA. In conclusion, manure and wastewater represented independent pollution sources of FRGs in swine farms. Associated MGEs might play a key role in the transfer and persistence of FRGs. The AD process was more efficient in the removal of FRGs than the ND method, nevertheless a longer storage of slurry may be required for a complete removal.

Sludge biolysis pretreatment to reduce antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs): Insight into the relationship between potential ARGs hosts and BALOs' preferred prey

As an important reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), the sludge discharged from wastewater treatment plants is the key intermediate for ARG transport into the environment. Bdellovibrio-and-like organisms (BALOs) are predatory bacteria that are expected to attack antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB). In this study, the screened BALOs (C3 & D15) were mixed with the sludge for biolysis to achieve the satisfying removal efficiencies of six tet genes, two sul genes, and one mobile genetic element (intl 1). Among them, tet(Q) demonstrated the highest reduction rate in relative abundance at 87.3 ± 1.0 %, while tet(X) displayed the lowest of 11.7 ± 0.2 %. The microorganisms, including Longilinea, Methanobacterium, Acetobacterium, Sulfurimonas, allobaculum, Gaiella, AAP99, Ellin6067, Rhodoferax, Ferruginibacter and Thermomonas, were expected to play a dual role in the reduction of ARGs by serving as ARB and BALOs' preferred prey. Meanwhile, BALOs consortium improved ARGs reduction efficiency via the expansion of the prey profile. Additionally, BALOs decreased the relative abundance of not only pathogens (Shinella, Rickettsia, Burkholderia, Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Clostridium, Klebsiella and Pseudomonas), but also the ARGs' host pathogens (Mycobacterium, Plesiocystis, Burkholderia, and Bacteroides). Therefore, the application of BALOs for sludge biolysis are promising to decrease the sludge's public health risks via limiting the spread of ARGs and pathogens into the environment.

Coxsackievirus A10 impairs nail regeneration and induces onychomadesis by mimicking DKK1 to attenuate Wnt signaling

Coxsackievirus A10 (CV-A10) infection, a prominent cause of childhood hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), frequently manifests with the intriguing phenomenon of onychomadesis, characterized by nail shedding. However, the underlying mechanism is elusive. Here, we found that CV-A10 infection in mice could suppress Wnt/β-catenin signaling by restraining LDL receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6) phosphorylation and β-catenin accumulation and lead to onychomadesis. Mechanistically, CV-A10 mimics Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) to interact with Kringle-containing transmembrane protein 1 (KRM1), the CV-A10 cellular receptor. We further found that Wnt agonist (GSK3β inhibitor) CHIR99021 can restore nail stem cell differentiation and protect against nail shedding. These findings provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of CV-A10 and related viruses in onychomadesis and guide prognosis assessment and clinical treatment of the disease.

Molecular epidemiology of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Ethiopia: A review article

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) belongs to the family Hepadnaviridae and is the smallest human DNA virus, with a genome that is only 3200 nucleotides long. The absence of proofreading function in HBV reverse transcriptase provides a wide range of genetic variants for targeted outgrowth at different stages of infection. A number of sub genotypes and ten HBV genotypes (A through J) have been identified through analyses of the divergence of HBV genomic sequences. Numerous clinical outcomes, including the emergence of chronicity, the course of the disease, the effectiveness of treatment, and the response to vaccination, have been related to differences in genotype between HBV isolates. There are just seven studies that have been done in Ethiopia that examine the molecular epidemiology of HBV. Moreover, these studies haven't been compiled and reviewed yet. In this review, we looked at the genetic diversity and molecular epidemiology of HBV, the relationship between HBV genotypes and clinical outcomes, the immunopathogenesis of HBV, and finally the molecular epidemiology of HBV in Ethiopia. PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar search engines were used to find relevant articles for the review. By using HBV genotyping, clinicians can better tailor vaccination decisions and antiviral therapy for patients with chronic hepatitis B who are more likely to experience the disease's progression.

Measles in Czech population with varying vaccination rates in 2018-2019: clinical and laboratory differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals and their relevance to clinical practice

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In a highly vaccinated population, an increasing number of previously vaccinated measles cases can be expected. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of vaccination on the clinical course and immune response in relation to the current measles case definition.

METHODS

The presence of fever, catarrhal symptoms, exanthema and complications, and specific IgM and IgG positivity were assessed in all 230 patients and compared in 193 patients with known vaccination status, divided into measles-containing vaccine (MCV) groups: MCV0 (85 patients), MCV1 (25 patients) and MCV2 (83 patients).

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences between groups were found for catarrhal symptoms. Conjunctivitis and rhinitis were significantly less frequent in the MCV2 group (47% and 54%) compared to MCV0 (80% and 80%), p < 0.001 and p = 0.002 respectively. Typical exanthema was present in 74 (87%) MCV0 and 56 (67%) MCV2 patients, p = 0.005. Complications were most common in the MCV0 group (29%). ECDC clinical case criteria were met in 81 (95%) MCV0, 18 (72%) MCV1 and 59 (71%) MCV2 patients, p < 0.001. IgM were positive in 64 (83%) MCV0, 14 (74%) MCV1 and 36 (67%) MCV2 patients, differences were not statistically significant. There were highly significant differences in IgG between MCV0 and both vaccinated groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A redefinition of the clinical case classification is essential to better capture modified measles and to raise awareness among healthcare workers of the differences in measles in vaccinated patients.

Clinical Course and Outcomes of Infants with Streptococcus bovis/Streptococcus Gallolyticus subspecies pasteurianus Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Streptococcus gallolyticus subspecies pasteurianus (SGP), a subtype of Streptococcus bovis , is an uncommon but important cause of neonatal sepsis. Although uncommon, SGP infections during infancy have been associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of available literature on the clinical course and outcomes of infants with SGP infection. Studies were identified using the following MeSH keywords: " Streptococcus gallolyticus ," " Streptococcus bovis ," "newborn" and "infant." Data including perinatal factors, clinical presentation, investigations, treatment and outcomes were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 46 articles were identified (116 cases: 60 S. bovis , 56 SGP). The cases were predominantly term (52%), male (57%) and born via vaginal delivery (67%). The most common symptom was fever [67% (95% confidence interval (CI): 43%-84%)], lethargy [66% (95% CI: 32%-89%)], tachypnea [59% (95% CI: 27%-85%)] and irritability [59% (95% CI: 34%-79%)]. Infants with early-onset infections (<3 days of life) were more likely to have respiratory symptoms and bacteremia (73%), whereas late-onset infections presented predominantly with gastrointestinal symptoms. Four mortalities were reported which occurred before antibiotic administration. Isolated bacteria were mostly penicillin-susceptible [95% (95% CI: 78-99%)] and cases treated with penicillin derivative had good recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

SGP is an important cause of neonatal sepsis and meningitis. Penicillin derivative is an effective treatment for SGP, and outcomes appear to be favorable.

Successful management of surgical site infection caused by Mycobacterium mageritense in a breast cancer patient

Mycobacterium mageritense (M. mageritense), a nontuberculous mycobacterium, is classified as a rapidly growing mycobacterium, class IV in the Runyon Classification. This bacterium is found in soil, water, and other habitats. Infections caused by M. mageritense are relatively rare and no treatment protocol has been established. Herein, we report a case of skin and soft tissue infection caused by M. mageritense. A 49-year-old woman underwent surgery for right breast cancer. Four months after surgery, a surgical site infection was found, and M. mageritense was identified in the wound culture using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Based on the sensitivity results, the patient was treated with levofloxacin and doxycycline for 4 months. In addition to antimicrobial agents, aggressive surgical interventions led to a favorable course of treatment. In conclusion, successful treatment of skin and soft tissue infections with M. mageritense requires surgical intervention whenever possible, aggressive susceptibility testing, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.

Immunogenicity and Safety of a Quadrivalent Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine Versus Nimenrix in Healthy Adolescents: A Randomized Phase IIIb Multicenter Study

INTRODUCTION

Many immunization programs in Europe recommend quadrivalent meningococcal vaccinations, which are often administered concomitantly with other vaccines. We compared the immune response of a tetanus toxoid conjugated quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (MenACYW-TT, MenQuadfi®) with another quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4-TT; Nimenrix®) when administered alone or concomitantly with Tdap-IPV and 9vHPV vaccines in adolescents.

METHODS

In this phase IIIb trial, healthy adolescents (MenC-naïve or MenC-primed before 2 years of age) from Spain, Italy, Hungary, and Singapore were randomized in a 3:3:2 ratio to receive either MenACYW-TT or MCV4-TT alone, or MenACYW-TT concomitantly with 9vHPV and Tdap-IPV. The primary objective was to demonstrate the non-inferiority of the seroprotection rate (human serum bactericidal assay [hSBA] titer ≥ 1:8) to serogroups A, C, W, and Y 30 days post-vaccination with a single dose of MenACYW-TT or MCV4-TT. Secondary objectives included describing hSBA titers for the four serogroups before and 1 month following vaccination and according to MenC priming status.

RESULTS

A total of 463 participants were enrolled (MenACYW-TT, n = 173; MCV4-TT, n = 173; MenACYW-TT/9vHPV/Tdap-IPV n = 117). Non-inferiority based on seroprotection was demonstrated for MenACYW-TT versus MCV4-TT for all serogroups. Immune responses were comparable whether MenACYW-TT was administered alone or concomitantly with Tdap-IPV and 9vHPV. Post-vaccination hSBA GMTs were higher in MenACYW-TT vs. MCV4-TT for serogroups C, Y, and W and comparable for serogroup A. The percentages of participants with an hSBA vaccine seroresponse were higher in MenACYW-TT vs. MCV4-TT for all serogroups. For serogroup C, higher GMTs were observed in both MenC-naïve or -primed participants vaccinated with MenACYW-TT vs. MCV4-TT. Seroprotection and seroresponse were higher in MenC-naïve participants vaccinated with MenACYW-TT vs. MCV4-TT and comparable in MenC-primed. The safety profiles were comparable between groups and no new safety concerns were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

These data support the concomitant administration of MenACYW-TT with 9vHPV and Tdap-IPV vaccines in adolescents.

TRIAL REGISTRATIONS

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04490018; EudraCT: 2020-001665-37; WHO: U1111-1249-2973.

GII.6 norovirus major capsid protein VP1 derived from distinct clusters induce cross-blocking effects

Unlike pandemic GII.4 norovirus, GII.6 norovirus shows limited sequence variation in its major capsid protein VP1. In this study, we investigated the VP1 expression profiles, binding abilities, and cross-blocking effects of three GII.6 norovirus strains derived from three distinct variants. Norovirus VP1 was expressed using a recombinant baculovirus expression system and characterized by transmission electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, salivary histo-blood group antigen (HBGA)-virus like particles (VLPs) binding and binding blockade assays. Mass spectrometry revealed the expected molecular weight (MW) of full-length proteins and degraded or cleaved fragments of all three VP1 proteins. Peptide mapping showed loss of 2 and 3 amino acids from the N- and C-terminus, respectively. Further, the co-expression of VP1 and VP2 proteins did not lead to extra fragmentation during mass spectrometry. Salivary HBGA-VLP binding assay revealed similar binding patterns of the three GII.6 VP1 proteins. Salivary HBGA-VLP binding blockade assay induced cross-blocking effects. Our results demonstrate similar binding abilities against salivary HBGAs and specific cross-blocking effects for GII.6 norovirus strains derived from distinct variants, suggesting that fewer GII.6 strains from different evolutionary variants are needed for the development of norovirus vaccines.

The first diagnosis of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome caused by tick-borne Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome virus in Chongqing, China: A case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) is a tick-borne disease caused by the SFTS virus (SFTSV) which has the potential to become a pandemic and is currently a major public health concern.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present the case of a 74-year-old female from an urban area of Chongqing, with leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, organ function, inflammatory, blood coagulation, and immune abnormalities. SFTSV infection was confirmed through molecular detection and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) analysis, indicating a diagnosis of SFTS due to the patient's history of tick bites. The patient received symptomatic and supportive therapy, including antibiotics, antiviral treatment, and antifungal therapy, and finally discharged from the hospital on day 18.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the need for increased awareness, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment for tick-borne SFTS. It also provides a comprehensive understanding of the disease's characteristics, pathogenesis, detection methods, and available treatments.

Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria striata (Spirurida: Onchocercidae) detected in wild carnivores from Texas, United States

Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria striata (Spirurida: Onchocercidae) are epidemiologically important filarial nematodes detected in wild carnivores sympatric to domestic animals and humans. In this study we surveyed for Dirofilaria species among previous studies archived blood samples (n = 202) of wild carnivores sourced across Texas between the years of 2014-2016 and 2020 to 2023. In total, 117 coyotes (Canis latrans), 67 raccoons (Procyon lotor), 12 gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), five bobcats (Lynx rufus), and one striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) were tested through the amplification of the partial cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1 (COI) gene followed by sequencing. Dirofilaria immitis was detected in 11.39% (95% CI = 7.71-16.51) of the samples (21 coyotes and two raccoons), while D. striata was detected in a single bobcat. Dirofilaria immitis sequences had 99.85%-100% (99.92% ± 0.08) similarity with other D. immitis sequences in GenBank. The sequence of D. striata from the bobcat was 100% similar to the single COI sequence available in GenBank. Data from this study reinforce the role of coyotes as a wild reservoir for D. immitis and suggest that raccoons may also play a role in the epidemiology of this parasite. This study additionally provides molecular data on D. striata, an understudied filarioid of felids.

Effects of coronavirus disease 2019 on the spread of respiratory-transmitted human-to-human bacteria

OBJECTIVES

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has necessitated significant changes in medical systems, social behaviours, and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). We aimed to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on changes in the epidemiology of respiratory-transmitted bacteria that have been unexplored.

METHODS

We utilised a comprehensive national surveillance database from 2018 to 2021 to compare monthly number of patients with four respiratory-transmitted human-to-human bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pyogenes) before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, stratified by specimen sources and age groups.

RESULTS

The incidence of detected patients with S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae, and S. pyogenes from both respiratory and blood cultures significantly decreased from 2019 to 2020. In 2021, the incidence of detected patients with the respiratory-transmitted bacterial species, except for S. pyogenes, from respiratory cultures, increased again from April to July, primarily affecting the 0-4-year age group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our comprehensive national surveillance data analysis demonstrates the dynamic changes and effects of NPIs on respiratory-transmitted bacteria during the COVID-19 pandemic, with variations observed among species, specimen sources, and age groups.

Behavioral and biological parameters of six populations of Triatoma pallidipennis (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) from areas with high and low prevalence rates of Trypanosoma cruzi human infection

In Mexico, more than 30 species of triatomines, vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease, have been collected. Among them, Triatoma pallidipennis stands out for its wide geographical distribution, high infection rates and domiciliation. Local populations of triatomines have shown notable biological and behavioral differences, influencing their vectorial capacity. Six behaviors of epidemiological importance, namely, egg-to-adult development time, median number of blood meals to molt to the next instar, instar mortality rates, aggressiveness (delay in initiating a meal), feeding time and defecation delay, were evaluated in this study for six populations of T. pallidipennis. Those populations from central, western and southern Mexico were arranged by pairs with a combination of high (HP) and medium (MP) of Trypanosoma cruzi human infection and most (MFC) and low (CLF) collection frequencies: HP/MFC, HP/CLF, and MP/MFC. The development time was longer in HP/CLF populations (> 220 days). The median number of blood meals to molt was similar (7-9) among five of the six populations. Mortality rates were greater (> 40 %) in HP/CLF and one MP/MFC populations. All studied populations were aggressive but exhibited slight differences among them. The feeding times were similar (≥ 10 min) for all studied populations within instars, increasing as instars progressed. An irregular pattern was observed in defecation behaviors, with marked differences even between the two populations from the same pair. High percentages of young (57.3-87.9 %), and old (62.4-89.8 %) nymphs, of female (61.1-97.3 %) and male (65.7-93.1 %) of all the studied populations defecated quickly (while eating, immediately after finishing feeding or < 1 min postfeeding). Our results indicate that the HP/MFC populations are potentially highly effective vectors for transmitting T. cruzi infections, while HP/CLF populations are potentially less effective vectors T. cruzi infections.

A meta-analysis of Chikungunya virus in neurological disorders

Chikungunya disease typically presents with the fever-arthralgia-rash symptom triad. However, an increase in the number of atypical clinical manifestations, particularly neurological disorders, has occurred. The current evidence regarding the pooled prevalence of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV)-associated neurological cases (CANCs) suspected of having an arboviral aetiology is not well-understood. Therefore, this meta-analysis included 19 studies (n = 7319 patients) and aimed to determine the pooled rate of exposure to CANC. The pooled positivity rate of CANC was 12 % (95 % CI: 6-19), and Brazil was overrepresented (11/19). These estimations varied between 3 and 14 % based on the diagnostic method (real-time PCR vs. ELISA-IgM) and biological samples (cerebrospinal fluid or blood specimens) used for detection of CHIKV. Regarding the frequency of CHIKV in neurological clinical subgroups, the rates were higher among patients with myelitis (27 %), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (27 %), Guillain-Barré syndrome (15 %), encephalitis (12 %), and meningoencephalitis (7 %). Our analysis highlights the significant burden of CANC. However, the data must be interpreted with caution due to the heterogeneity of the results, which may be related to the location of the studies covering endemic periods and/or outbreaks of CHIKV. Current surveillance resources should also focus on better characterizing the epidemiology of CHIKV infection in neurological disorders. Additionally, future studies should investigate the interactions between CHIKV and neurological diseases with the aim of gaining deeper insight into the mechanisms underlying the cause-and-effect relationship between these two phenomena.

A Qualitative Evaluation of the Acceptability of Shigellosis Prevention Recommendations Among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex With Men

BACKGROUND

Shigellosis is diarrheal disease caused by highly infectious Shigella bacteria. Shigella can spread in multiple ways, including sexual contact. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men are particularly at risk for shigellosis.

METHODS

To evaluate the acceptability of 3 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-developed behavioral recommendations for the prevention of sexually transmitted shigellosis, virtual in-depth interviews were conducted among 26 gay or bisexual men in March to May 2021.

RESULTS

Participants had a median age of 25 years; 65% were non-Hispanic White, 12% were Hispanic White, 12% Asian, 4% Hispanic Black, and 8% multiracial/other. Respondents indicated willingness to engage in certain prevention behaviors (e.g., washing hands, genitals, and anus before and after sex), but were less willing to engage in behaviors that were viewed as outside social norms or difficult to practice (e.g., dental dams for oral-anal contact; latex gloves for fingering or fisting). Respondents thought recommendations may be more feasible if knowledge of shigellosis was greater; however, some perceived that the severity of shigellosis is low and did not warrant the effort of engaging in prevention behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

Educational efforts to increase awareness of shigellosis and other enteric diseases spread through sexual contact are needed and public health practitioners should consider the acceptability of how realistic it is for individuals to engage in certain prevention behaviors. Rather than recommending behaviors that do not have buy-in, it may be more efficacious to focus recommendations on adopting behaviors reported as acceptable to the target audience.

Molecular characterization of human astrovirus infection in children under 5 years of age with acute gastroenteritis in Tehran, Iran, 2021-2022: co-infection with rotavirus

Human astroviruses (HAstVs) are considered important causative pathogens of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children under 5 years of age worldwide, along with group A rotavirus (RVA), norovirus (NoV), and enteric adenovirus (EAdV). The present study was aimed to both detect HAstV and its co-infections and investigate genetic analysis of circulating HAstV and co-infected virus in hospitalized children under 5 years of age with AGE in Iran. Accordingly, a sum of 200 stool specimens were screened by PCR for HAstV during 2021-2022. The HAstV was found in 0.5% of 200 specimens (n = 1) while was co-infected with RVA. The genetic and phylogenetic analysis indicated HAstV1 genotype, which clustered with viruses from lineage 1b, which has not been previously reported in Iran. The detected RVA strain belonged to G1 lineage II/P[8]-lineage III, which has been reported previously in Iran as the most common strain. The further genetic analysis of RVA VP6 and NSP4 demonstrated an atypical genotype pattern G1P[8]-I1-E2, as a mono-reassortant of a Wa-like genogroup, which appeared to be reassorted with the NSP4 gene of E2 genotype of the G2P[4] DS-1 genogroup. Although the clinical outcomes of the AGE-causing viruses co-infection is not yet entirely clear, it seems that future studies will be helpful to merge clinical and epidemiological data of co-infecting viruses for a more accurate medical and clinical relevance in symptomatic children.

Convalescent human plasma candidate reference materials protect against Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) challenge in an A129 mouse model

Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV) is spread by infected ticks or direct contact with blood, tissues and fluids from infected patients or livestock. Infection with CCHFV causes severe haemorrhagic fever in humans which is fatal in up to 83 % of cases. CCHFV is listed as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) and there are currently no widely-approved vaccines. Defining a serological correlate of protection against CCHFV infection would support the development of vaccines by providing a 'target threshold' for pre-clinical and clinical immunogenicity studies to achieve in subjects and potentially obviate the need for in vivo protection studies. We therefore sought to establish titratable protection against CCHFV using pooled human convalescent plasma, in a mouse model. Convalescent plasma collected from seven individuals with a known previous CCHFV virus infection were characterised using binding antibody and neutralisation assays. All plasma recognised nucleoprotein and the Gc glycoprotein, but some had a lower Gn glycoprotein response by ELISA. Pooled plasma and two individual donations from convalescent donors were administered intraperitoneally to A129 mice 24 h prior to intradermal challenge with CCHFV (strain IbAr10200). A partial protective effect was observed with all three convalescent plasmas characterised by longer survival post-challenge and reduced clinical score. These protective responses were titratable. Further characterisation of the serological reactivities within these samples will establish their value as reference materials to support assay harmonisation and accelerate vaccine development for CCHFV.

Geese as reservoirs of human colon cancer-associated Streptococcus gallolyticus

Recently, an increased number of reports have described pathogens of animal origin that cause a variety of infections and a rise in their transmission to humans. Streptococcus gallolyticus, a member of the Streptococcus bovis/Streptococcus equinus complex (SBSEC), is one of these pathogens and infects a wide range of hosts from mammals to poultry and has a broad functionality ranging from pathogenicity to food fermentation. As S. gallolyticus causes complications including bacteremia, infective endocarditis, and colorectal malignancy in humans, it is important to investigate its occurrence in various hosts, including geese, to prevent potential zoonotic transmissions. This study aimed to investigate the presence of S. gallolyticus in the droppings of clinically healthy and diarrheic geese, which were raised intensively and semi-intensively, by the in vitro culture method, characterize the isolates recovered by PCR and sequence-based molecular methods and determine their antibiotic susceptibility by the disk diffusion and gradient test methods. For this purpose, 150 samples of fresh goose droppings were used. Culture positivity for S. gallolyticus was determined as 8% (12/150). PCR analysis identified 54.55% (n = 6) of the isolates as S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus and 45.45% (n = 5) as S. gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus. Following the 16S rRNA sequence and ERIC-PCR analyses, S. gallolyticus subspecies exhibited identical cluster and band profiles that could be easily distinguished from each other and were clonally identified. High rates of susceptibility to florfenicol, penicillin, rifampicin, and vancomycin were detected among the isolates, regardless of the subspecies diversity. Both subspecies showed high levels of resistance to bacitracin, clindamycin, doxycycline, tetracycline, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and erythromycin and multiple MDR profiles, indicating their potential to become superbugs. This first report from Türkiye demonstrates the occurrence of the S. gallolyticus subspecies in geese. In view of the recent increase of geese production and the consumption of goose meat in Türkiye, the occurrence of S. gallolyticus in geese should not be ignored to prevent zoonotic transmission.

Colorimetric strategies applicable for loop-mediated isothermal amplification

In recent years, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has gained popularity for detecting various pathogen-specific genes due to its superior sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The simplicity and flexibility of naked-eye detection of the amplicon make LAMP an ideal rapid and straightforward diagnostic tool, especially in resource-limited laboratories. Colorimetric detection is one of the simplest and most straightforward among all detection methods. This review will explore various colorimetric dyes used in LAMP techniques, examining their reaction mechanisms, advantages, limitations and latest applications.

Zebrafish gut microbiota composition in response to tick saliva biomolecules correlates with allergic reactions to mammalian meat consumption

The α-Gal syndrome (AGS) is an IgE-mediated tick borne-allergy that results in delayed anaphylaxis to the consumption of mammalian meat and products containing α-Gal. Considering that α-Gal-containing microbiota modulates natural antibody production to this glycan, this study aimed to evaluate the influence on tick salivary compounds on the gut microbiota composition in the zebrafish (Danio rerio) animal model. Sequencing of 16 S rDNA was performed in a total of 75 zebrafish intestine samples, representing different treatment groups: PBS control, Ixodes ricinus tick saliva, tick saliva non-protein fraction (NPF), tick saliva protein fraction (PF), and tick saliva protein fractions 1-5 with NPF (F1-5). The results revealed that treatment with tick saliva and different tick salivary fractions, combined with α-Gal-positive dog food feeding, resulted in specific variations in zebrafish gut microbiota composition at various taxonomic levels and affected commensal microbial alpha and beta diversities. Metagenomics results were corroborated by qPCR, supporting the overrepresentation of phylum Firmicutes in the tick saliva group, phylum Fusobacteriota in group F1, and phylum Cyanobacteria in F2 and F5 compared to the PBS-control. qPCRs results at genus level sustained significant enrichment of Plesiomonas spp. in groups F3 and F5, Rhizobium spp. in NPF and F4, and Cloacibacterium spp. dominance in the PBS control group. This study provides new results on the role of gut microbiota in allergic reactions to tick saliva components using a zebrafish model of AGS. Overall, gut microbiota composition in response to tick saliva biomolecules may be associated with allergic reactions to mammalian meat consumption in AGS.

Antigenic epitope analysis of Pakistani G3 and G9 rotavirus strains compared to vaccine strains revealed multiple amino acid differences

Rotaviruses belong to genotype VP4-P[8] are a significant cause of severe loose diarrhea in infants and young children. In the present study, we characterised the complete genome of three of the Pakistani P[8]b RVA strains by Illumina HiSeq sequencing technology to determine the complete genotype constellation providing insight into the evolutionary dynamics of their genes using maximum likelihood analysis. The maximum genomic sequences of our study strains were similar to more recent human Wa-Like G1P[8]a, G3P[8]a, G4P[6], G4P[8], G9P[4], G9P[8]a, G11P[25],G12P[8]a and G12P[6] strains circulating around the world. Therefore, strains PAK274, PAK439 and PAK624 carry natively distinctive VP4 gene with universally common human Wa-Like genetic backbone. Comparing our study P[8]b strains with vaccines strains RotarixTM and RotaTeqTM, multiple amino acid differences were examined between vaccine virus antigenic epitopes and Pakistani isolates. Over time, these differences may result in the selection for strains that will escape the vaccine-induced RVA-neutralizing-antibody effect.

Assessment of the Cutaneous Hormone Landscapes and Microbiomes in Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a progressive skin disease of unknown etiology. In this longitudinal case-control exploratory study, we evaluated the hormonal and microbial landscapes in 18 postmenopausal females (mean [SD] age: 64.4 [8.4] years) with VLS and controls. We reevaluated the patients with VLS after 10-14 weeks of daily topical class I steroid. We found that groin cutaneous estrone was lower in VLS than in controls (-22.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -36.96 to -7.70; P = .006); cutaneous progesterone was higher (5.73, 95% CI = 3.74-7.73; P < .0001). Forehead 11-deoxycortisol (-0.24, 95% CI = -0.42 to -0.06; P = .01) and testosterone (-7.22, 95% CI = -12.83 to -1.62; P = .02) were lower in disease. With treatment, cutaneous estrone (-7.88, 95% CI = -44.07 to 28.31; P = .62), progesterone (2.02, 95% CI = -2.08 to 6.11; P = .29), and 11-deoxycortisol (-0.13, 95% CI = -0.32 to 0.05; P = .15) normalized; testosterone remained suppressed (-7.41, 95% CI = -13.38 to -1.43; P = .02). 16S ribosomal RNA V1-V3 and ITS1 amplicon sequencing revealed bacterial and fungal microbiome alterations in disease. Findings suggest that cutaneous sex hormone and bacterial microbiome alterations may be associated with VLS in postmenopausal females.

Therapeutic Phage Candidates for Targeting Prevalent Sequence Types of Carbapenem-Resistant Escherichia coli

Carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli (CREC) is a global threat to public health; therefore, alternative treatment options are urgently needed. Bacteriophages have emerged as promising candidates for combating CREC infections. This study aimed to investigate the genetic basis of phage sensitivity in CREC by evaluating carbapenem resistance among multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli isolated in Daegu, South Korea and analyzing their sequence types (STs) with phage susceptibility spectra. Among the 60 MDR E. coli isolates, 80.4% were identified as CREC, with 77.0% demonstrating resistance to imipenem and 66.6% to meropenem. Moreover, 70 lytic E. coli bacteriophages were isolated from hospital sewage water and evaluated against those 60 E. coli isolates. The phages exhibited lytic activity of 33%-60%, with average titers ranging from 5.6 × 1012 to 2.4 × 1013 PFU/mL (Plaque-Forming Unit). Furthermore, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis of the bacterial isolates revealed 14 distinct STs, mostly belonging to ST131, ST410, and ST648. Notably, the phage susceptibility spectra of ST73, ST13003, ST648, ST2311, ST167, ST405, ST607, ST7962, and ST131 were significantly different. Thus, the isolated phages can effectively lyse CREC isolates, particularly those with clinically dominant STs. Conversely, ST410 exhibited a 14.2%-87.14% susceptibility spectrum, whereas ST1139, ST1487, ST10, and ST206 did not lyse, suggesting the presence of more resistant STs. Future studies are warranted to identify the reasons behind this resistance and address it. Ultimately, this study will aid in developing focused treatments to address these pressing global health issues.

Clinical Course and Molecular Characterization of Human Bocavirus Associated with Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Northern India

Respiratory samples from 139 hospitalized children were screened for the human bocavirus (HBoV) genome. Positive samples were sequenced for the partial VP1/VP2 gene followed by molecular and phylogenetic analyses. HBoV positivity was noted in 7.2% (10/139) of patients. All HBoV-positive children presented with fever, cough, and respiratory distress (90%, 9/10). Three children developed multisystemic viral illness, with one fatality. Eight children required intensive care management and five required mechanical ventilation. The nucleotide percent identity of the partial VP1/VP2 gene in the HBoV study strains ranged from 97.52% to 99.67%. Non-synonymous mutations in the VP1 protein were T591S (n = 8) and Y517S (n = 1) in the HBoV St1 strain and N475S (n = 8) and S591T (n = 2) in the HBoV St2 strain. One strain showed A556P, H556P, I561S, and M562R non-synonymous mutations. All the study strains belonged to the HBoV1 type. Seven HBoV strains belonged to the same lineage, and three belonged to another lineage. For evolutionary dynamics, GTR+I substitution model with uncorrelated relaxed lognormal clock and Bayesian Skyline tree prior showed 9.0 × 10-4 (95% highest probability density interval: 3.1 × 10-6, 2.1 × 10-3) nucleotide substitutions per site per year. Clinical suspicion and virological screening are necessary to identify HBoV infections in children.

β-Lactam Susceptibility of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis

All clinical isolates of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) are considered susceptible to β-lactams, the first-line drugs used to treat SDSE infections. However, given that penicillin-non-susceptible SDSE strains have been isolated in Denmark, in this study, we aimed to identify β-lactam-non-susceptible clinical isolates of SDSE in Japan. In 2018, we collected 150 clinical isolates of S. dysgalactiae, and species identification was performed using a Rapid ID Strep API kit. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of six β-lactams (penicillin G, oxacillin, ceftizoxime, ceftibuten, cefoxitin, and cefaclor) were determined for the 85 clinical isolates identified as SDSE using the agar dilution method standardized by the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute. The MIC ranges of penicillin G, oxacillin, ceftizoxime, ceftibuten, cefoxitin, and cefaclor were 0.007-0.06, 0.03-0.12, 0.015-0.06, 0.25-2, 0.12-2, and 0.06-0.5 μg/mL, respectively. None of the clinical isolates of SDSE were non-susceptible to penicillin G, indicating that all 85 clinical isolates of SDSE were susceptible to β-lactams. Our findings indicate that almost all clinical isolates of SDSE, from several prefectures of Japan, are still susceptible to β-lactams. Nevertheless, there remains a need for continuous and careful monitoring of drug susceptibility among clinical SDSE isolates in Japan.

Dissemination of Urinary Escherichia coli Phylogroup B2 in Provincial and Community Hospitals in Uthai Thani, Central Thailand

Escherichia coli is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes a variety of clinical infections in humans, including diarrhea, sepsis, and urinary tract infection. This bacterium is a common multidrug-resistant threat in community and hospital settings worldwide. This study examined the antimicrobial susceptibility and genetic relationship based on Clermont phylotyping and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR of 84 E. coli urinary isolates from provincial and community hospitals in Thailand. All isolates were susceptible to nitrofurantoin, and almost all isolates were susceptible to carbapenem, fosfomycin, and amikacin. High resistance rates to fluoroquinolone, ampicillin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole were observed. Clermont phylogroup B2 was predominant (n = 58). Subtyping of the B2 phylogroup revealed diverse subgroups, of which subgroup V (n = 11), VII (n = 9), III (n = 6), and II (n = 6) were most prevalent. ERIC-PCR showed that the strains of the B2 subgroups III and V were spread between provincial and community hospitals and between hospital wards. This evidence suggests the need for comprehensive infection control monitoring, with strong active surveillance at all hospital levels.

Enterovirus 3A protein disrupts endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis through interaction with GBF1

Enteroviruses are single-stranded, positive-sense RNA viruses causing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress to induce or modulate downstream signaling pathways known as the unfolded protein responses (UPR). However, viral and host factors involved in the UPR related to viral pathogenesis remain unclear. In the present study, we aimed to identify the major regulator of enterovirus-induced UPR and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. We showed that host Golgi-specific brefeldin A-resistant guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (GBF1), which supports enteroviruses replication, was a major regulator of the UPR caused by infection with enteroviruses. In addition, we found that severe UPR was induced by the expression of 3A proteins encoded in human pathogenic enteroviruses, such as enterovirus A71, coxsackievirus B3, poliovirus, and enterovirus D68. The N-terminal-conserved residues of 3A protein interact with the GBF1 and induce UPR through inhibition of ADP-ribosylation factor 1 (ARF1) activation via GBF1 sequestration. Remodeling and expansion of ER and accumulation of ER-resident proteins were observed in cells infected with enteroviruses. Finally, 3A induced apoptosis in cells infected with enteroviruses via activation of the protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)/C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) pathway of UPR. Pharmaceutical inhibition of PERK suppressed the cell death caused by infection with enteroviruses, suggesting the UPR pathway is a therapeutic target for treating diseases caused by infection with enteroviruses.IMPORTANCEInfection caused by several plus-stranded RNA viruses leads to dysregulated ER homeostasis in the host cells. The mechanisms underlying the disruption and impairment of ER homeostasis and its significance in pathogenesis upon enteroviral infection remain unclear. Our findings suggested that the 3A protein encoded in human pathogenic enteroviruses disrupts ER homeostasis by interacting with GBF1, a major regulator of UPR. Enterovirus-mediated infections drive ER into pathogenic conditions, where ER-resident proteins are accumulated. Furthermore, in such scenarios, the PERK/CHOP signaling pathway induced by an unresolved imbalance of ER homeostasis essentially drives apoptosis. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms underlying the virus-induced disruption of ER homeostasis might be a potential target to mitigate the pathogenesis of enteroviruses.

Ulcerative and pyogranulomatous pododermatitis due to Pseudomonas luteola infection in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo): a case report with literature review of this emerging zoonotic disease in ferrets

Pseudomonas luteola (P.luteola), formerly called Chryseomonas luteola, is a strict aerobic gram-negative bacillus, 0.8 to 1.0 µm wide and 1.5 to 2.5 µm long, considered an opportunistic pathogen found ubiquitously in humid environments, both in soil and water. It sporadically causes disease in animals and immunosuppressed humans or those subjected to invasive procedures such us peritoneal dialysis or catheterization. In ferrets, this infection was first described in Spain in 2012 and since then, cases have appeared occasionally in Finland, Austria, Australia, France, the United States and also in Spain. This pathogen is considered an emerging zoonotic disease in ferrets, causing respiratory disease, panniculitis, and abscesses due to pyogranulomatous or suppurative inflammation predominantly of the pleura, lung, mediastinum, panniculus or salivary glands, frequently with lethal consequences. The clinical case of a ferret, infected by Pseudomona luteola, presenting with ulcerative suppurative pododermatitis and ipsilateral popliteal purulent lymphadenitis, is described. Together with a complete resolution of the clinical case by means of a non-invasive medical management likely due to the rapid detection, identification, and treatment of the infection.

Progresses Toward Polio Eradication in Asian Countries: Its History and Japan's Contributions

Japan experienced a large outbreak of wild poliovirus in the 1960s. The government made an exceptional decision to import oral polio vaccines (OPVs) from the Soviet Union and Canada while bypassing the usual approval process for medical products. Mass vaccination and subsequent, routine immunization successfully contained the wild poliovirus; the last case in Japan was reported in 1980. Domestic OPV had been used to sustain Japan's polio-free state. In 2012, the world's first inactivated polio vaccine developed from the Sabin vaccine replaced OPVs. Domestic vaccines combined with Sabin-derived inactivated polio vaccine are currently used in Japan. When the World Health Assembly announced the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988, the Japanese government made a commitment to support endemic countries. The Japan International Cooperation Agency supported the establishment of microbiological laboratories, surveillance, distribution of polio vaccines and capacity building. Vaccine-derived poliovirus emerged as a new, international risk in the early 2000s. Vaccine-derived poliovirus was also detected in several Asian countries and required an outbreak response with additional vaccinations and strengthened surveillance. Genetically stable, novel, oral polio vaccine type 2 became available for use in outbreak responses and was used in Indonesia. Japan maintains its commitment to work toward the eradication of the poliovirus.

Flagellar stator genes control a trophic shift from obligate to facultative predation and biofilm formation in a bacterial predator

The bacterial predator Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus is considered to be obligatorily prey (host)-dependent (H-D), and thus unable to form biofilms. However, spontaneous host-independent (H-I) variants grow axenically and can form robust biofilms. A screen of 350 H-I mutants revealed that single mutations in stator genes fliL or motA were sufficient to generate flagellar motility-defective H-I strains able to adhere to surfaces but unable to develop biofilms. The variants showed large transcriptional shifts in genes related to flagella, prey-invasion, and cyclic-di-GMP (CdG), as well as large changes in CdG cellular concentration relative to the H-D parent. The introduction of the parental fliL allele resulted in a full reversion to the H-D phenotype, but we propose that specific interactions between stator proteins prevented functional complementation by fliL paralogs. In contrast, specific mutations in a pilus-associated protein (Bd0108) mutant background were necessary for biofilm formation, including secretion of extracellular DNA (eDNA), proteins, and polysaccharides matrix components. Remarkably, fliL disruption strongly reduced biofilm development. All H-I variants grew similarly without prey, showed a strain-specific reduction in predatory ability in prey suspensions, but maintained similar high efficiency in prey biofilms. Population-wide allele sequencing suggested additional routes to host independence. Thus, stator and invasion pole-dependent signaling control the H-D and the H-I biofilm-forming phenotypes, with single mutations overriding prey requirements, and enabling shifts from obligate to facultative predation, with potential consequences on community dynamics. Our findings on the facility and variety of changes leading to facultative predation also challenge the concept of Bdellovibrio and like organisms being obligate predators.

IMPORTANCE

The ability of bacteria to form biofilms is a central research theme in biology, medicine, and the environment. We show that cultures of the obligate (host-dependent) "solitary" predatory bacterium Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, which cannot replicate without prey, can use various genetic routes to spontaneously yield host-independent (H-I) variants that grow axenically (as a single species, in the absence of prey) and exhibit various surface attachment phenotypes, including biofilm formation. These routes include single mutations in flagellar stator genes that affect biofilm formation, provoke motor instability and large motility defects, and disrupt cyclic-di-GMP intracellular signaling. H-I strains also exhibit reduced predatory efficiency in suspension but high efficiency in prey biofilms. These changes override the requirements for prey, enabling a shift from obligate to facultative predation, with potential consequences on community dynamics.

Prevalence, Isolation, and Molecular Characterizationof Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus in Cattle from the Republic of Korea

Background: Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne disease caused by Bandavirus dabieense. Initially identified in China, this disease has spread throughout Asian countries via tick bites and animal-to-human transmission. However, reports of the prevalence of SFTS virus (SFTSV) in cattle in Korea are lacking. This study aimed to investigate SFTSV infections in grazing cattle in the Republic of Korea (ROK). Materials and Methods: In total, 845 grazing cattle serum samples were collected over 2 years (2019 and 2020) in the ROK, and viral RNA was extracted using a kit. One-step RT-nested PCR was performed to amplify the S-segment of SFTSV. Positive serum samples were used to isolate SFTSV in Vero E6 cells, and the full sequences were analyzed. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using the maximum-likelihood method with MEGA X. In addition, immunoglobulin G antibodies against SFTSV were investigated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Here, 4.0% of serum samples (34/845) were positive for SFTSV S-segments, and one virus isolate was cultured in Vero E6 cells. Phylogenetic analysis based on the partial S-segment classified 4 SFTSV isolates as the B-2 genotype, 9 as the B-3 genotype, 18 as an unclassified B genotype, and 3 as the D genotype. One cultured virus was classified as the B-2 genotype based on SFTSV L-, M-, and S-segments. Antibody detection results showed that 21.1% of serum samples (161/763) were positive for SFTSV. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study performed to identify the prevalence of SFTSV in grazing cattle in the ROK. Our findings indicate the necessity for more intensive and continuous SFTSV monitoring, not only in cattle but also in other animals, to comprehend the genetic diversity of the virus and its potential eco-epidemiological impact on human health.

Optimizing treatment administration strategies using negative mNGS results in corticosteroid-sensitive diffuse parenchymal lung diseases

Timely adjustments of antibiotic and corticosteroid treatments are vital for patients with diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLDs). In this study, 41 DPLD patients with negative metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) results who were responsive to corticosteroids were enrolled. Among these patients, about 26.8% suffered from drug-induced DPLD, while 9.8% presented autoimmune-related DPLD. Following the report of the negative mNGS results, in 34 patients with complete antibiotics administration profiles, 79.4% (27/34) patients discontinued antibiotics after receiving negative mNGS results. Moreover, 70.7% (29/41) patients began or increased the administration of corticosteroid upon receipt of negative mNGS results. In the microbiota analysis, Staphylococcus and Stenotrophomonas showed higher detection rates in patients with oxygenation index (OI) below 300, while Escherichia and Stenotrophomonas had higher abundance in patients with pleural effusion. In summary, our findings demonstrated the clinical significance of mNGS in assisting the antibiotic and corticosteroid treatment adjustments in corticosteroid-responsive DPLD. Lung microbiota may imply the severity of the disease.

Foodborne bacteria in milk and milk products along the water buffalo milk chain in Bangladesh

Controlling foodborne pathogens in buffalo milk is crucial for ensuring food safety. This study estimated the prevalence of nine target genes representing seven critical foodborne bacteria in milk and milk products, and identified factors associated with their presence in buffalo milk chain nodes in Bangladesh. One hundred and forty-three milk samples from bulk tank milk (n = 34), middlemen (n = 37), milk collection centers (n = 37), and milk product shops (n = 35) were collected and analyzed using RT-PCR. Escherichia (E.) coli, represented through yccT genes, was the most prevalent throughout the milk chain (81-97%). Chi-squared tests were performed to identify the potential risk factors associated with the presence of foodborne bacteria encoded for different genes. At the middleman level, the prevalence of E. coli was associated with the Mymensingh, Noakhali, and Bhola districts (P = 0.01). The prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes, represented through inlA genes, and Yersinia (Y.) enterocolitica, represented through yst genes, were the highest at the farm level (65-79%). The prevalence of both bacteria in bulk milk was associated with the Noakhali and Bhola districts (P < 0.05). The prevalence of Y. enterocolitica in bulk milk was also associated with late autumn and spring (P = 0.01) and was higher in buffalo-cow mixed milk than in pure buffalo milk at the milk collection center level (P < 0.01). The gene stx2 encoding for Shiga toxin-producing (STEC) E. coli was detected in 74% of the milk products. At the middleman level, the prevalence of STEC E. coli was associated with the use of cloths or tissues when drying milk containers (P = 0.01). Salmonella enterica, represented through the presence of invA gene, was most commonly detected (14%) at the milk collection center. The use of plastic milk containers was associated with a higher prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus, represented through htrA genes, at milk product shops (P < 0.05). These results suggest that raw milk consumers in Bangladesh are at risk if they purchase and consume unpasteurized milk.

To evaluate the performance of simultaneous amplification and testing assay for group B Streptococcus detection: comparison with real-time PCR and ddPCR assays

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the performance of simultaneous amplification and testing (SAT) assay for the detection of group B Streptococcus (GBS) in maternal vaginal and perianal swabs compared with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

METHODS

We obtained vaginal and perianal swabs from 1474 pregnant women at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University (Shanghai, China) between April 2023 and June 2023. Vaginal and perianal swabs were collected at 35-37 weeks of gestation. Swabs were tested for GBS simultaneously by using the SAT assay and RT-PCR, and a comparative analysis (kappa coefficient) was performed. Furthermore, we conducted additional droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) tests to confirm the results when there were controversial results between SAT and RT-PCR. In addition, we compared the limit of detection, technical specificity, repeatability and reproducibility of SAT-GBS with those of routine RT-PCR assays.

RESULTS

In our study, the detection rate of clinical GBS according to the SAT assay was 11.5% (169/1471). The SAT assay showed a sensitivity of 91.8%, a specificity of 99.9%, a diagnostic accuracy of 98.9%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 99.4% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.8%. The kappa value between RT-PCR and SAT was 0.917.

CONCLUSIONS

This SAT assay for the detection of group B Streptococcus is not only easy to perform but can also detect GBS sensitively and specifically and may be used in the regular molecular diagnosis of GBS infection among pregnancies.

Non-invasive urine-based ELISA using a recombinant Leishmania protein to diagnose tegumentary leishmaniasis

The diagnosis of tegumentary leishmaniasis (TL) is hampered by variable sensitivity and/or specificity of the tests. Serological assays are suitable to diagnose visceral leishmaniasis (VL); however, they present low performance for the detection of TL cases. Additionally, blood collection to obtain patient serum represents a challenge, as it is an invasive and uncomfortable procedure, requiring laboratorial infrastructure and trained professionals. In this context, the present study proposed to evaluate patient urine to detect TL, given that this analyte has proven to be effective in ELISA experiments for the detection of VL cases. For this, a Leishmania protein called LiHyV, two specific B-cell epitopes derived from protein amino acid sequence, and a Leishmania antigenic extract (SLA) were used as antigens. A total of 215 paired urine and serum samples were evaluated, and results showed that, when serum was employed as an analyte, rLiHyV, Peptide1, Peptide2, and SLA presented a sensitivity of 85%, 29%, 58%, and 31%, respectively, and a specificity of 97.5%, 98%, 100%, and 97.5%, respectively, in the diagnosis of TL. When urine was used, rLiHyV, Peptide1, Peptide2, and SLA presented a sensitivity of 95%, 74%, 67%, and 52%, respectively, and a specificity of 100%, 99%, 98%, and 86%, respectively. In conclusion, preliminary data suggest that urine could be considered as an alternative biological sample for the detection of TL cases.

Study on the temporal and spatial distribution of Culex mosquitoes in Hanoi, Vietnam

Arboviruses transmitted by mosquitoes, including Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), present a substantial global health threat. JEV is transmitted by mosquitoes in the genus Culex, which are common in both urban and rural areas in Vietnam. In 2020, we conducted a 1-year survey of Culex mosquito abundance in urban, suburban, and peri-urban areas of Hanoi using CDC-light traps. Mosquitoes were identified to species and sorted into pools based on species, sex, and trap location. The mosquito pools were also investigated by RT-qPCR for detection of JEV. In total, 4829 mosquitoes were collected over a total of 455 trap-nights, across 13 months. Collected mosquitoes included Culex, Aedes, Anopheles, and Mansonia species. Culex mosquitoes, primarily Cx. quinquefasciatus, predominated, especially in peri-urban areas. Most Culex mosquitoes were caught in the early months of the year. The distribution and abundance of mosquitoes exhibited variations across urban, suburban, and peri-urban sites, emphasizing the influence of environmental factors such as degree of urbanization, temperature and humidity on Culex abundance. No JEV was detected in the mosquito pools. This study establishes baseline knowledge of Culex abundance and temporal variation, which is crucial for understanding the potential for JEV transmission in Hanoi.

Development of a laboratory-based model to study the interaction between nutrients and Vibrio cholerae and predicting the spread of cholera outbreaks in the Indian subcontinent

Cholera is an infectious disease that is transmitted through contaminated water. The disease includes a long back history of epidemics. Despite the numerous hygiene and prevention techniques that have been developed for Cholera, outbreaks of cholera are still reported worldwide. The resolution to this issue lies in promptly identifying the area susceptible to cholera outbreaks, a matter that continues to perplex scientists and medical professionals. It has been reported that Vibrio is effective in nitrogen digestion because it contains the nasA gene. In this study, initially the impact of nutrients (nitrate and nitrite) on growth of Vibrio cholerae was determined, subsequently a relationship was developed between nutrient substrates and V. cholerae growth rate, using Monod model. Subsequently, the model was applied to large national river quality data set (2012-2014) developed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and a possible cholerae outbreak zone was predicted. This work will definitely help the policy makers to develop management strategy for keeping rivers safe from future cholera outbreak.