High Infection Rates Research Articles

Clinical, hematological and some biochemical alterations of Rotavirus group A in newborn buffalo calves

Background: Infectious diarrhea of newborns calves is one of the biggest health problems in beef and dairy industries in Basrah, Iraq, Group A rotavirus considers major cause of gastroenteritis in newborn calve of buffalo in the world, leading to serious economic losses specifically in developing countries. The infection has short incubation period, non-viremic, and profuse diarrhea.Methods: Buffalo calves with diarrhea were carefully examined and a sample of their excrement was collected for this particular study. The calves ranged in age from one to thirty days and were equally split between males and females. We found out whether the calves were girls or boys. The calves' ages were considered throughout the sorting process; they originated from different regions of Iraq's Basrah governorate. Moreover, they were further separated into four separate age groups. Blood samples were collected from calves infected with rotavirus so that the objectives of this research could be fulfilled. Biochemical and hematological studies were the intended purposes of the blood sample collection. Finding out how these samples fared in comparison to the control samples in the group was the next stage. Laboratory diagnostics used real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), while field diagnostics used a rotavirus antigen fast test kit. Both techniques were used in tandem.Results: With the use of a field-based rotavirus antigen fast detection kit and real-time polymerase chain reaction, 19 out of 30 samples tested positive for rotavirus antigen. Nineteen out of one hundred samples came back positive. Along with it, the highest infection rates were recorded in January (30.7%) and among children aged five to fourteen (27.5%). The afflicted males and females did not vary significantly from one another statistically. The clinical signs of infected calves were also documented. Symptoms included anorexia with or without a loss of suckling ability, lose or somewhat solid stools, mucous, and a milky or light-yellow color. Some of the other symptoms included signs of dehydration, although to varying degrees. Nothing stood out while comparing the patients' vital indicators. In the infected group, sodium levels dropped significantly, and monocyte and lymphocyte production skyrocketed. If we look at potassium levels, we see that there was no statistically significant difference between the infected and control groups. Infected calves had substantially greater levels of red blood cell count, panel C viral load, hemoglobin B, and total lipid content (TLC) when compared with healthy calves.Conclusion: The study record and suggests the role of rotavirus group A as a serious cause of diarrhea in newborns buffalo calves in Basrah governorate, Iraq.Keywords: Rotavirus; Group A; Buffalo; Basrah Governorate

Haemosporidian intensity and nestlings' life-history along an urban-to-rural gradient

Urban areas, i.e. dense housing and reduced green spaces, can significantly impact avian health, through altering land use and increasing biotic and abiotic stress. This study assessed the association of urbanization on haemosporidian infections, vectors, immune response, and body condition in Parus major nestlings, across four classes of urbanization along an urban-to-rural gradient in Vienna, Austria. Contrary to our expectations, vector abundance remained consistent across the gradient, while an increase in leukocyte count is positively associated with total parasite intensity. We found that nestlings in more urbanized areas exhibited higher parasite intensity and altered immune response, as evidenced by variations in the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio and leukocyte counts. Culicidae female vectors were associated with nestlings’ total parasites, scaled mass index, and industrial units. Nestlings in highly developed areas had higher infection rates than those in forests, suggesting increased exposure to infections. However, there was no clear relationship between total female vectors and total parasites. The level of urbanization negatively affected nestling body condition, with a decrease in fat deposits from forested to highly urbanized areas. Our findings highlight the complex interplay between urbanization, vector-borne parasite transmission, and host immune response, emphasizing the need for comprehensive urban planning to improve wildlife health and guarantee ecosystem functioning. Understanding how urbanization affects bird immunity and parasite infections is critical for adapting urban landscapes for wildlife health and ecosystem integrity.

Microbiological Profiles after Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Exploring the Relationship between Infection, Inflammation, and the Potential Effects of Mechanical Circulatory Support.

Background: Cardiogenic shock (CS) following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) poses significant management challenges, exacerbated by inflammatory responses and infectious complications. This study investigates the microbiological profiles and impacts of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) on inflammation and infection in OHCA patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed microbiological data from various specimens of 372 OHCA patients, who were treated at the Cardiac Arrest Center of the University Hospital of Marburg from January 2018 to December 2022. Clinical outcomes were evaluated to investigate the potential impact of MCS on infection and inflammation. Results: Of the study cohort, 115 patients received MCS. The microbiological analysis revealed a higher incidence of positive blood cultures in the MCS group vs. the non-MCS group (39% vs. 27.7%, p = 0.037), with predominantly Gram-positive bacteria. Patients with positive microbiological findings had longer in-hospital stays and prolonged periods of mechanical ventilation. The levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) differed, suggesting a more pronounced inflammatory response in MCS patients, especially in the later ICU stages. Notably, despite the higher infection rate in the MCS group, the survival rates did not significantly differ in the two groups. Conclusions: MCS appears to influence the microbiological and inflammatory landscape in OHCA patients, increasing the susceptibility to certain infections but not affecting the overall mortality. This study underscores the complexity of managing post-resuscitation care and highlights the need for tailored therapeutic strategies to effectively mitigate infectious and inflammatory complications.

Molecular detection and characterization of Anaplasma marginale and Babesia canis vogeli infecting dogs in Luxor, Egypt

Tick-borne diseases in animals are increasing rapidly worldwide, but there is insufficient information about tick-borne diseases infecting dogs in southern Egypt. Thus, in the current study, we detected the presence of Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) and Babesia canis vogeli (B. canis vogeli) in the blood of dogs. The results revealed that 4/100 (4%) were positive, and a higher infection rate was found in males (75%), than females (25%). The phylogenetic analysis for the major surface protein 4 (msp4) gene in this study was compared with amplicons separate from other reported isolates with alignment by identity 100% with cattle and camels from Egypt, and the phylogenetic analysis for the B. canis vogeli small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene in this study identified identity by 99.89% with dogs from Egypt. This report is considered the first report in southern Egypt about A. marginale in dogs based on the sequence analysis of the msp4 gene, providing new data for the classification and identification of A. marginale in dogs compared to A. marginale isolated from other animals in southern Egypt.

Anthroponotic and Zoonotic Hookworm DNA in an Indigenous Community in Coastal Ecuador: Potential Cross-Transmission between Dogs and Humans.

Humans can be infected with anthroponotic (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus) and with zoonotic (Ancylostoma ceylanicum, A. caninum, A. braziliense, and Uncinaria stenocephala) hookworms from dogs. Anthroponotic species are usually thought not to infect dogs. We used the internal transcribed spacer-1 (ITS1) gene in a quantitative PCR to detect anthroponotic and zoonotic hookworm species in fecal samples from 54 children and 79 dogs living in an indigenous community in tropical Northwestern Ecuador. Hookworm DNA was detected in 59.3% of children and 92.4% of dogs. Among samples from children, zoonotic hookworms were detected in 24.1% (A. ceylanicum 14.8%, A. caninum 11.1%, and A. braziliense 1.9%), whilst in dog samples, anthroponotic species were detected in 19.0% (N. americanus 12.4% and A. duodenale 6.3%). Sanger sequencing was performed successfully on 60 qPCR-positive samples (16 from children and 44 from dogs), and consensus sequences were obtained with >98% homology to GenBank references for hookworm spp. Phylogenetic analysis showed a close relationship between anthroponotic and zoonotic Ancylostoma species and no heterogeneity between A. duodenale and A. caninum; in human samples, we found A. ceylanicum but not A. braziliense sequences and we were unable to identify N. americanus in the dog samples. No infections with U. stenocephala were detected. Our data provide evidence for high rates of hookworm infections in indigenous children and dogs in a marginalized rural setting in coastal Ecuador. We also found evidence for potential cross-transmission of hookworm spp. between humans and dogs that represent a potential domestic reservoir for zoonotic and anthroponotic hookworms.

Providing adolescent-friendly sexually transmitted infection screening and treatment services.

There are high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. Adolescents and young adults (AYA) ages 15-24 years remain one of the populations that is most vulnerable to STIs. The goal of this review is to summarize recent international updates in adolescent STI screening and treatment. Normalizing sexual history taking and STI testing, and advocating for adolescents to receive comprehensive sexuality education improves stigma surrounding sexual health. The global rise in syphilis is pervasive and includes high rates of infection among AYA and women of reproductive age - universal screening may be indicated depending on local epidemiology. Gonococcal antimicrobial resistance remains a significant public health concern worldwide, thus judicious use of antimicrobials and reporting cases of resistance is crucial. Sexual health services are increasingly using virtual platforms, which may be an effective strategy for STI testing and treatment among AYA. Specific areas of focus to address the STI epidemic among AYA include reducing stigma surrounding sexual health, screening, and treatment of STIs, especially with the global rise in syphilis and high rates of gonorrhea resistance, in addition to increased use of telehealth services as effective education and intervention strategies.

Isolation and Diagnosis of Parasites from Domestic Cockroach Periplaneta americana in Mosul city, Iraq

Cockroaches are the greatest potential mechanical vector of various pathogenic microorganisms, some of which cause serious diseases in humans and domestic animals. The high prevalence of human pathogens carried by the cockroach has been reported in many countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of internal and external parasites parasitizing the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, the effect of the sex of the cockroach and the area of sample collection on The type, number and types of parasites isolated, The current study was conducted for the period from July 2023 until April 2024, A samples of 111 male Periplaneta americana cockroaches were collected from some homes and schools in the city of Mosul. After the samples arrived at the laboratory, by placing them in clean, sterilized tubes in a refrigerator set at -4°C for 10 minutes Subsequently, 10 ml of normal saline solution was added to each tube. The tubes were then vigorously shaken for 5 minutes to dislodge parasites a salt solution was added to centrifuge tubes, which were spun at 2000 rotations per minute for 5 minutes. This mixture was shaken for 5 minutes and then, Cockroaches were dissected to isolate internal parasites The contents of the digestive tract were taken, and the solution was filtered through a mesh. Each sample was prepared by placing a drop of sediment on a glass slide, adding Lugol's iodine dye, and examining it under a microscope. The majority of the samples were infected with one or more types of parasites on their body surfaces and within their digestive tracts, infection rate of 96.40 %. This study involved the isolation and diagnosis of 19 parasitic species, including five types of worms: Ancylostoma duodenale, Leidynema, Strongyloides stercoralis, Hammerschmidtiella male, and Thelastoma. and six types of protozoan parasites, including both active and Nyctotherus ovalis cyst, active and cyst stages of Lophmonas, cyst stage of Entamoeba coli, and Gregarine. and Seven types of eggs, comprising eggs of each of Ancylostoma duodenale, Thelastoma, Leidynema, Strongyloides stercoralis, Hammerschmidtiella , Gryllophila, and in addition to the external parasitic Mite, The highest infection rate was recorded in worms, with 91 out of 111 samples i.e. (81.98% ). This was followed by protozoa, with a rate of 72% out of 80 samples. Finally, external mites, 52 samples i.e. (46.84%). In this study, it was observed that the number of parasites harbored by cockroaches in their digestive tracts exceeds more than that found on their external surfaces. Cockroaches collected from households were found to harbor a greater number of parasites compared to those collected from schools, underscoring the necessity of raising awareness about the dangers of cockroach presence in homes and keeping them away from food sources due to the parasites they carry, which may cause various diseases.

Silver phosphate-modified carbonate apatite honeycomb scaffolds for anti-infective and pigmentation-free bone tissue engineering

Bone regeneration using synthetic materials has a high rate of surgical site infection, resulting in severe pain for patients and often requiring revision surgery. We propose Ag3PO4-based surface modification and structural control of scaffolds for preventing infections in bone regeneration. We demonstrated the differences in toxicity and antibacterial activity between in vitro and in vivo studies and determined the optimal silver content in terms of overall anti-infection effects, bone regeneration, toxicity, and pigmentation. A honeycomb structure comprising osteoconductive and resorbable carbonate apatite (CAp) was used as the base scaffold. CAp in the scaffold surface was partially replaced with different concentrations of Ag3PO4 via controlled dissolution-precipitation reactions in an AgNO3 solution. Both bone regeneration and infection prevention were achieved at 860–2300 ppm of silver. Despite the absence of Ag3PO4, honeycomb scaffolds were less susceptible to infection, even under conditions where infection occurs in clinically used three-dimensional porous scaffolds. Regardless of in vitro cytotoxicity at >5200 ppm of silver, increasing the silver content to 21,000 ppm did not adversely affect in vivo bone formation and scaffold resorption or cause acute systemic toxicity. Rather, bone formation was enhanced with 5200 ppm of silver. However, pigmentation was observed at that concentration. Hence, we concluded that the optimal silver concentration range is 860–2300 ppm for anti-infective and pigmentation-free bone regeneration. Bone regeneration was achieved via surface modification, resulting in the rapid release of silver ions immediately after implantation, followed by gradual release over several months. The scaffold structure may also aid in preventing bacterial growth within the scaffolds.

First report of Helicotylenchus dihystera parasitizing Lady Tankerville orchids (Phaius tankervilleae) in Vietnam.

Lady Tankerville, a rare orchid species (Phaius tankervilleae (Banks ex L'Hér.) Blume) in Vietnam, not only enhances the aesthetic value of the surroundings with its enchanting blooms but also holds high economic value (Aver'janov & Averyanova, 2003). Investigating the necrosis symptom on the root system and declined Lady Tankerville in the market in Hai Duong province in Vietnam from 11/2020 to 12/2021, we discovered a substantial infestation (24/24 plants were infected) of a spiral nematode, Helicotylenchus sp. The nematode population was extracted from the rhizosphere soil, roots, and stems of a single orchid using the modified Baermann tray technique (Whitehead & Hemming, 1965), for thorough characterization. The average nematode density was measured at 525±85 (350-670) nematodes/250 cm3 of soil, 202±56 (198-264) nematodes/15 g of roots, and 80±15 (72-95) nematodes/15 g of stem. Two hundred nematodes from the same population were inoculated into another healthy orchid for preservation and further infection tests. This species was morphologically identified as Helicotylenchus dihystera according to the key of Fotedar and Kaul (1985) and the description of Sher (1966). Morphometric measurements of the females (n = 12) are as follows: body length = 632-725 (681 ± 32) µm; a = 24-34 (28 ± 3); b = 5.1-7.2 (6.0 ± 0.6); b' = 4.3-6.4 (5.3 ± 0.6); c = 33-46 (39 ± 5); c' = 1.1-1.4 (1.2 ± 0.1); V = 62-78 (65 ± 4)%; O = 30 -49 (39 ± 6); stylet length = 21-26 (24 ± 2) µm; DGO = 9.2-12.4 (10.8 ± 1.1) µm. To validate morphological observations, molecular analyses of the ITS (Vrain et al., 1992) and the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA (Subbotin et al., 2006) were conducted. The ITS and D2-D3 sequences from this study (accession number: PP060444 and PP033748) exhibited the highest similarity of 99.8% and 100% to the sequence of H. dihystera in GenBank (KM506885 and MW023215), respectively. The infection test took place in a greenhouse at 28 ± 2℃. Three-month-old Phaius tankervilleae (n=8) were individually grown in 15 x 15 cm deep pots filled with sterilized sand and inoculated with 500 gravid females of H. dihystera (Rashid & Azad, 2013). Two noninoculated plants served as controls. After 60 days of inoculation, symptoms such as sunspots and root necrosis, observed in the market, appeared in the tested plants (Fig. S1). The presence and diagnosis of H. dihystera infestation in soil, roots, and stems across growth stages of orchids indicates the nematode to be an obligate parasite. The nematodes penetrate the roots, causing characteristic necrotic lesions initially yellow, then turn reddish-brown to black, along with brown root flecks in discolored tissues. Heavy infestations post-flowering led to extensive necrosis, distortion, and decay of the roots. The average reproduction factor (final population/initial population) of H. dihystera in this study was 22.2. Control plants remained symptom-free. Notably, 100% of tested plants were infected, highlighting the severe impact of H. dihystera. The nematodes were successfully reisolated and identified as H. dihystera through molecular analyses (accession number: PP060615 (ITS) and PP033748 (D2-D3)), reaffirming its identity. In addition to 32 host plants in Vietnam (Nguyen et al., 2023), our study reveals a strain of H. dihystera parasitizing Lady Tankerville orchids with a relatively high reproduction factor and infection rate. This marks the first reported instance of H. dihystera parasitizing Lady Tankerville orchids in Vietnam, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to protect this plant.

Spatial patterns of Hyalomma marginatum-borne pathogens in the Occitanie region (France), a focus on the intriguing dynamics of Rickettsia aeschlimannii.

Hyalomma marginatum is an invasive tick species recently established in mainland southern France. This tick is known to host a diverse range of human and animal pathogens. While information about the dynamics of these pathogens is crucial to assess disease risk and develop effective monitoring strategies, few data on the spatial dynamics of these pathogens are currently available. We collected ticks in 27 sites in the Occitanie region to characterize spatial patterns of H. marginatum-borne pathogens. Several pathogens have been detected: Theileria equi (9.2%), Theileria orientalis (0.2%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.6%), Anaplasma marginale (0.8%), and Rickettsia aeschlimannii (87.3%). Interestingly, we found a spatial clustered distribution for the pathogen R. aeschlimannii between two geographically isolated areas with infection rates and bacterial loads significantly lower in Hérault/Gard departments (infection rate 78.6% in average) compared to Aude/Pyrénées-Orientales departments (infection rate 92.3% in average). At a smaller scale, R. aeschlimannii infection rates varied from one site to another, ranging from 29% to 100%. Overall, such high infection rates (87.3% on average) and the effective maternal transmission of R. aeschlimannii might suggest a role as a tick symbiont in H. marginatum. Further studies are thus needed to understand both the status and the role of R. aeschlimannii in H. marginatum ticks.IMPORTANCETicks are obligatory hematophagous arthropods that transmit pathogens of medical and veterinary importance. Pathogen infections cause serious health issues in humans and considerable economic loss in domestic animals. Information about the presence of pathogens in ticks and their dynamics is crucial to assess disease risk for public and animal health. Analyzing tick-borne pathogens in ticks collected in 27 sites in the Occitanie region, our results highlight clear spatial patterns in the Hyalomma marginatum-borne pathogen distribution and strengthen the postulate that it is essential to develop effective monitoring strategies and consider the spatial scale to better characterize the circulation of tick-borne pathogens.

Unravelling heterogeneous malaria transmission dynamics in the Peruvian Amazon: insights from a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundMalaria remains a global health challenge, particularly in Peru's Loreto region. Despite ongoing efforts, high infection rates and asymptomatic cases perpetuate transmission. The Peruvian Ministry of Health’s “Zero Malaria Plan” targets elimination. This novel study combines microscopic, molecular, and serological techniques to assess transmission intensity, identify epidemiological risk factors, and characterize species-specific patterns across villages. The findings aim to inform targeted interventions and support broader malaria elimination efforts in line with the Zero Malaria Plan initiative.MethodsA cross-sectional malaria survey was conducted in the Zungarococha community, comprising the villages Llanchama (LL), Ninarumi (NI), Puerto Almendra (PA), and Zungarococha (ZG), using microscopic, molecular, and serological techniques to evaluate malaria transmission intensity. Statistical analysis, including multivariate-adjusted analysis, seroprevalence curves, and spatial clustering analysis, were performed to assess malaria prevalence, exposure, and risk factors.ResultsThe survey revealed a high prevalence of asymptomatic infections (6% by microscopy and 18% by PCR), indicating that molecular methods are more sensitive for detecting asymptomatic infections. Seroprevalence varied significantly between villages, reflecting the heterogeneous malaria transmission dynamics. Multivariate analysis identified age, village, and limited bed net use as significant risk factors for malaria infection and species-specific exposure. Seroprevalence curves demonstrated community-specific patterns, with Llanchama and Puerto Almendra showing the highest seroconversion rates for both Plasmodium species.ConclusionsThe study highlights the diverse nature of malaria transmission in the Loreto region, particularly nothing the pronounced heterogeneity as transmission rates decline, especially in residual malaria scenarios. The use of molecular and serological techniques enhances the detection of current infections and past exposure, aiding in the identification of epidemiological risk factors. These findings underscore the importance of using molecular and serological tools to characterize malaria transmission patterns in low-endemic areas, which is crucial for planning and implementing targeted interventions and elimination strategies. This is particularly relevant for initiatives like the Zero Malaria Plan in the Peruvian Amazon.

Effectiveness of four Turkish entomopathogenic nematode isolates against Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae) pupae at different temperatures

Türkiye, is the country of origin of the olive tree and is among the world’s leading olive producers. Most of the olive production in Türkiye is concentrated in Izmir, Aydın, Çanakkale, Balıkesir, Muğla and Bursa Provinces. Bactrocera oleae (Diptera: Tephritidae), being one of the main pests of olive trees, is an important problem in olive cultivation in Türkiye. The efficacy of four Turkish populations of entomopathogenic nematodes against B. oleae pupae was determined under laboratory conditions. They were Steinernema feltiae/12, S. carpocapsae/1133, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora/70, H. bacteriophora/91, which were collected in different regions of Türkiye during our earlier studies. They were tested against the pest by using a single dose at 5 different temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 °C). The highest infection rate was observed forH. bacteriophora/91 isolate at 25 °C, and the lowest infection rate was observed for S. feltiae/12 isolate at 10 °C.

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae in the livestock, humans and environmental samples around the globe: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) have diminished treatment options causing serious morbidities and mortalities. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the prevalence and associated factors of Enterobacteriaceae infections in clinical, livestock and environmental settings globally. The population intervention comparison and outcome strategy was used to enroll studies using the preferred reporting system for systematic review and meta-analysis to include only cross-sectional studies. Search engines used to retrieve articles included journal author name estimator, PubMed, Google Scholar and African Journals Online (AJOL). The Newcastle–Ottawa scale was used to assess the quality of studies. Sixteen articles from 2013 to 2023 in Africa, Asia, Europe and South America were studied. The pooled prevalence of CRE was 43.06% (95% CI 21.57–66.03). Klebsiella pneumoniae (49.40%), Escherichia coli (26.42%), and Enterobacter cloacae (14.24%) were predominant. Klebsiella pneumoniae had the highest resistance with the blaKPC-2 in addition to blaNDM, blaOXA-48, blaIMP and blaVIM. The blaKPC-2 genes occurrence was associated with environmental (P-value < 0.0001) and South American studies (P-value < 0.0001), but there was no difference in the trends over time (P-value = 0.745). This study highlights the high rates of CRE infections, particularly within blaKPC production. Monitoring and surveillance programs, research and infection control measures should be strengthened. Additionally, further studies are needed to explore the mechanisms driving the predominance of specific bacterial species and the distribution of resistance genes within this bacterial family.

High infection rates and risk‐adapted prevention strategies in contemporary pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

AbstractWith recent changes in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) practices, such as the increasing use of alternative donors and ex vivo T‐cell depletion, how various risk factors interplay and affect the timeline of infections have not been well elucidated. We retrospectively reviewed the first 100 consecutive HSCT from April 2019 to October 2021 in the only pediatric HSCT center in Hong Kong. We found that the vast majority of the allogeneic transplant recipients (69/74, 93.2%) had infections after HSCT, amongst which bacterial, viral, and fungal infection rates were 35.1%, 90.5%, and 9.5%, respectively. In contrast, only 30.8% (8/26) of autologous transplant recipients had infections (rate of bacterial, viral, and fungal infection were 19.2%, 15.4%, and 3.8%, respectively). Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV‐6) and BK virus (BKV) typically occurred early after HSCT, adenovirus (ADV) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) thereafter, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) throughout the entire 2.5‐year observation period. Ex vivo T‐cell depletion was a general risk factor for viral infection with HHV‐6 (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.03), BKV (HR = 3.36), CMV (HR = 4.45), and EBV (HR = 7.15); all p &lt; 0.02. Cancer in second‐complete remission compared with first‐complete remission was a risk factor for bacterial infection (OR = 6.0, 95% CI = 1.12–32.2, and p = 0.037). Patients with gut graft‐versus‐host disease were at risk for fungal infections (OR = 12.3, 95% CI = 1.33–114.4, and p = 0.027). The infection‐related mortality rate was 10.0%, which occurred only in allogeneic HSCT patients with hematological malignancies receiving cord blood (n = 4) or haploidentical HSCT (n = 6). Collectively, our findings in pediatric patients after contemporary HSCT support both time‐dependent and risk‐adapted measures against infective complications to improve transplant outcome.

The Relation of Preoperative HbA1c Level With Intraoperative and Postoperative Complications in Type-2 Diabetic Patients: An Observational Study.

Background Perioperative dysglycemia increases morbidity and mortality, particularlyamong those with diabetes mellitus (DM), and elevated HbA1clevels,reflecting long-term blood glucose, are linked to poor healing and higher infection rates. This study investigates the link between preoperative HbA1c levels and perioperative outcomes in type-2 DM patients. Methodology This prospective observational study was conducted in India between January 2021 and April 2022. Sixty patients aged 18-60 with type-2 DM who underwent electivesurgery under general anesthesia (GA) were included; the American Society of Anesthesiologists class >III and patients with severe organ failures were excluded. Participants were divided into two groups: A (HbA1c ≤7.5%) and B (HbA1c >7.5%). Data on preoperative vitals, intraoperative hemodynamics, and postoperative complications were collected. SPSS v23 was used for data analysis; p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results The mean age of the participants was 48.22 years; males comprised 58.3%. Group A had a higher proportion of oral hypoglycemic agents. Group B showed higher maximum mean blood pressure and intraoperative blood sugar levels at one hour. Postoperatively, Group B had higher glucose levels, more prevalent hyperglycemia, and higher preoperative and postoperative blood urea levels. No significant differences were found in postoperative outcomes like acute kidney injury (AKI), leukocytopenia, leucocytosis, fever, and intensive care admission. Surgical site infection (SSI) incidence was higher in group B, though not statistically significant. Group B had more extended hospital stays. Conclusion Preoperative HbA1c above 7.5% was associated with impaired perioperative glycemic control and higher dysglycemic episodes. Higher preoperative HbA1c was found to be linked to increased postoperative hyperglycemia, AKI, intensive care admissions, and more extended hospital stays, though not statistically significant. SSI incidence was higher, highlighting its importance over preoperative HbA1c.

ВЕТЕРИНАРНО-САНИТАРНАЯ ЭКСПЕРТИЗА ПРОДУКТОВ УБОЯ В СТРУКТУРЕ ПАРАЗИТАРНЫХ ЗАБОЛЕВАНИЙ В КАБАРДИНО-БАЛКАРСКОЙ РЕСПУБЛИКЕ

The purpose of research is to study the results of post-mortem examination of beef, to monitor parasitic diseases among the population of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic. The material for the study was the data obtained from post-mortem examinations from 2020 to 2022 and information from the Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology of the Office of the Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic for the same period. Recently, a significant part of productive animals in the territory of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic comes from the southern regions of the Russian Federation. Based on the results of reports conducted by the veterinary service for the period 2020–2022. 7,427 cattle carcasses were identified with affected organs and tissues by the following invasive diseases: Fasciolosis, Echinococcosis, Dicrocoeliasis. In 2020, the highest infection rate was due to Echinococcus granulosus infestation – 42.54 %, followed by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica – 32.52 %; the smallest – when infected with Dicrocoelium lanceatum – 24.94 %. In 2021, the highest level of infection was also due to infection by Echinococcus granulosus – 39.02 %, then Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica – 36.72 %, the lowest was due to infection by Dicrocoelium lanceatum – 24.24 %. In 2022, most of the culling occurred due to infestation: Echinococcus granulosus – 38.50 %, then Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica – 36.80 %, the least due to infection with Dicrocoelium lanceatum – 24.68 %. Favorable natural and climatic conditions, pasture animal husbandry, and peculiarities of the social structure of the population of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic lead to the interaction of the pathogen and host populations. Based on the results of epidemiological examinations of foci of invasive diseases of the population in the Russian Federation, the following results were obtained: over the past 5 years (2017–2021), 1,909 cases of infection with Echinococcus granulosus were identified. In total, 551 cases of infection with Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis were registered in the Russian Federation in 2022.

Molecular Epidemiological Characterization of Giardia Lamblia in Kirkuk, Iraq

Results of laboratory examination of 600 faeces samples fem patients attended to Pediatric Hospital and General Kirkuk Hospital from January 2023 to December 2023 were showed 57 infection cases with Giardia lamblia with 9.5% infection rate. The diagnosis of positive samples was confirmed by PCR. No significant differences were observed in the prevalence of parasite in males 38.6% compared to 29.8% females. The highest infection rate 28.1% were found among age groups (1-5) years whereas the lowest infection rate 10.5% were found at age groups (11-15) years. The infection rate in rural area was 56.1% as compared to 12.3% in urban. The PCR product analysis of glutamate dehydrogenase gene revealed two genotypes (assemblage A and assemblage B) amplified at 264 bp and 460 bp for identifying G.lamblia.

Molecular characterization and zoonotic potential of Entamoeba spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis from captive wild animals in northwest China

BackgroundParasites Entamoeba spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis are prevalent pathogens causing gastrointestinal illnesses in animals and humans. Consequently, researches on their occurrence, distribution and hosts are crucial for the well-being of both animals and humans. Due to the confined spaces and frequent interaction between animals and humans, animal sanctuaries have emerged as potential reservoirs for these parasites. In this study, the wildlife sanctuary near the Huang Gorge of the Qinling Mountains in northwest China is chosen as an ideal site for parasite distribution research, considering its expansive stocking area and high biodiversity.ResultsWe collected 191 fecal specimens from 37 distinct wildlife species and extracted genomic DNA. We identified these three parasites by amplifying specific gene regions and analyzed their characteristics and evolutionary relationships. All the parasites exhibited a high overall infection rate, reaching 90.05%. Among them, seven Entamoeba species were identified, accounting for a prevalence of 54.97%, with the highest infection observed in Entamoeba bovis. In total, 11 Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes were discovered, representing a prevalence of 35.08%, including three genotypes of human-pathogenic Group 1 and two novel genotypes (SXWZ and SXLG). Additionally, 13 Blastocystis subtypes were detected, showing a prevalence of 74.87% and encompassing eight zoonotic subtypes. All of the above suggests significant possibilities of parasite transmission between animals and humans.ConclusionsThis study investigated the occurrence and prevalence of three intestinal parasites, enhancing our understanding of their genetic diversity and host ranges in northwest China. Furthermore, the distribution of these parasites implies significant potential of zoonotic transmission, underscoring the imperative for ongoing surveillance and implementation of control measures. These efforts are essential to mitigate the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks originating from wildlife sanctuary.

Molecular detection of Coxiella burnetii in ticks collected from animals and the environment in Uganda.

Coxiella burnetii is a highly infectious organism that is easily spread through aerosols causing Q fever in humans. Ticks can harbour and transmit C. burnetii to animals, contributing to disease maintenance. Our aim was to examine the presence of C. burnetii in ticks in Uganda. In this study, ticks were collected from five Ugandan districts and tested by real-time PCR for C. burnetii (Coxiella outer membrane protein 1 gene). A total of 859 tick pools (9602 individual ticks) were tested, and pool positivity for C. burnetii was 5.5% (n = 47). Pooled prevalence differed by district; the highest was Luwero (7.3%), then Gulu (6.6%), and Kasese had the lowest (1.3%). However, district variation was not statistically significant (Fisher's exact = 0.07). Ticks collected from dogs and cats had the highest positivity rates [23/47, (48.9%)] followed by livestock (cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs) [18/47, (38.3%)] and vegetation [6/47, (12.8%)]. Haemaphysalis elliptica had the highest infection rates, followed by Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, Amblyomma variegatum and Rhipicephalus decoloratus had similar prevalence. Although ticks are not the primary transmitters of C. burnetii to humans, pathogen detection in ticks can be an indirect indicator of risk among animal hosts. Vulnerable populations, including occupations with close animal contact such as farming, butchery, and veterinary practice, have an increased risk of C. burnetii exposure. Veterinarians and clinicians should be aware that C. burnetii may cause human and animal illness in these regions.

Assessment and Empirical Treatment of Chronic Abdominal Pain from Suspected Helicobacter Pylori Infection In a Remote Setting

The prevalence of Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori) remains globally high, with an estimated 50% of the words population believed to be infected. Despite the continually high incident rates of infection 90% of those infected remain asymptomatic. H.Pylori is a gram-negative, microaerophilic bacteria, mostly found in stomach of affected individuals that causes inflammation and ulceration. Definitive routes of transmission and subsequent infection are still debated. The most likely mechanism of transmission is thought to be intrafamilliar, this encapsulates fecal-oral, gastric-oral, oral-oral and sexual vectors. Contaminated foods and water sources are also highly likely mechanisms of transmission. Therefore in developing countries with poor sanitation, potentially contaminated water sources and regions with social-economic hardship experience increased symptomatic cases of H.Pylori.