Infectious Research Articles

Estimating the relative importance of epidemiological and behavioural parameters for epidemic mpox transmission: a modelling study

BackgroundMany European countries experienced outbreaks of mpox in 2022, and there was an mpox outbreak in 2023 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. There were many apparent differences between these outbreaks and previous outbreaks of mpox; the recent outbreaks were observed in men who have sex with men after sexual encounters at common events, whereas earlier outbreaks were observed in a wider population with no identifiable link to sexual contacts. These apparent differences meant that data from previous outbreaks could not reliably be used to parametrise infectious disease models during the 2022 and 2023 mpox outbreaks, and modelling efforts were hampered by uncertainty around key transmission and immunity parameters.MethodsWe developed a stochastic, discrete-time metapopulation model for mpox that allowed for sexual and non-sexual transmission and the implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions, specifically contact tracing and pre- and post-exposure vaccinations. We calibrated the model to case data from Berlin and used Sobol sensitivity analysis to identify parameters that mpox transmission is especially sensitive to. We also briefly analysed the sensitivity of the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions to various efficacy parameters.ResultsWe found that variance in the transmission probabilities due to both sexual and non-sexual transmission had a large effect on mpox transmission in the model, as did the level of immunity to mpox conferred by a previous smallpox vaccination. Furthermore, variance in the number of pre-exposure vaccinations offered was the dominant contributor to variance in mpox dynamics in men who have sex with men. If pre-exposure vaccinations were not available, both the accuracy and timeliness of contact tracing had a large impact on mpox transmission in the model.ConclusionsOur results are valuable for guiding epidemiological studies for parameter ascertainment and identifying key factors for success of non-pharmaceutical interventions.

Advancements in Nanoparticle-Based Strategies for Enhanced Antibacterial Interventions.

The escalating global threat of antibiotic resistance underscores the urgent need for innovative antimicrobial strategies. This review explores the cutting-edge applications of nanotechnology in combating bacterial infections, addressing a critical healthcare challenge. We critically assess the antimicrobial properties and mechanisms of diverse nanoparticle systems, including liposomes, polymeric micelles, solid lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, zinc oxide, silver, and gold nanoparticles, as well as nanoencapsulated essential oils. These nanomaterials offer distinct advantages, such as enhanced drug delivery, improved bioavailability, and efficacy against antibiotic-resistant strains. Recent advancements in nanoparticle synthesis, functionalization, and their synergistic interactions with conventional antibiotics are highlighted. The review emphasizes biocompatibility considerations, stressing the need for rigorous safety assessments in nanomaterial applications. By synthesizing current knowledge and identifying emerging trends, this review provides crucial insights for researchers and clinicians aiming to leverage nanotechnology for next-generation antimicrobial therapies. The integration of nanotechnology represents a promising frontier in combating infectious diseases, underscoring the timeliness and imperative of this comprehensive analysis.

Overview of the 88th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Japanese Circulation Society (JCS2024) - The Future of Cardiology - Challenges in Overcoming Cardiovascular Disease.

The 88thAnnual Scientific Meeting of the Japanese Circulation Society (JCS2024) was held from Friday, March 8thto Sunday, March 10thin Kobe, Japan. The main theme of this 3-day meeting was "The Future of Cardiology: Challenges in Overcoming Cardiovascular Disease". As COVID-19 has been finally conquered, with revision of its categorization under the Infectious Disease Control Law and relaxation of infection prevention measures, it was once again possible to have face-to-face presentations and lively discussion. JCS2024 was a major success, with 19,209 participants and attendees, thanks to the greatly appreciated cooperation and support from all affiliates.

Deployed at sea amidst the pandemic: Insights from 30 United States Navy nurses

BackgroundCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presented unique challenges to the United States Navy given that the major components of controlling an infectious disease outbreak are not easily achieved on ships. PurposeTo understand shipboard Navy nurses’ activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. MethodsVirtual semistructured interviews were conducted in 2021 with 30 Navy nurses who deployed to sea during the pandemic. Data were coded using directed content analyses whereby remarks were categorized according to 16 public health interventions (PHIs) of the Minnesota Department of Health Intervention Wheel. Data were also coded via conventional content analysis. DiscussionMultiple PHIs were utilized to improve the public health of those on Navy ships during the height of the pandemic. Also, four themes were constructed via conventional content analysis. ConclusionShipboard Navy nurses overcame unprecedented challenges to protect the health of their crew, all the while preserving operational readiness during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy: 20-year experience from an Italian tertiary referral center.

Data on acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy (AHEI) are derived from small case series or case reports. We report a 20-year experience at a national referral center. We performed a single-center retrospective study including patients who were diagnosed with AHEI from January 1, 2004, to June 30, 2023. We identified 21 patients (57.1% females) with a median age of 18 months (range 7-33 months). Thirteen (61.9%) patients were admitted to the pediatric ward, the remaining eight (38.1%) presented to the emergency department and were discharged for outpatient management. The median length of hospitalization was 5 days (range 3-9 days). Twenty patients (95.2%) had prodromal symptoms. The most common cutaneous findings were targetoid purpuric plaques. The lesions were most localized on the face (13, 61.9%) and on the upper limbs (18 patients, 85.7%). Sixteen (76%) patients presented with nonpitting and tender edema, localized on the feet (9/16, 56%) and hands (6/16, 37.5%). Systemic involvement was rare, and no patients experienced complications or sequelae. Twelve (57.1%) patients underwent infectious disease investigations, with positive results in only four (33.3%). None of the patients diagnosed after the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak (March 2020) had positive nasopharyngeal swabs for the virus. For the 13 patients who were admitted to the pediatric ward, the median length of hospitalization was five days (3-9 days). The 21-patient single-center cohort of children affected by AHEI confirmed a generally benign course of AHEI, despite a 62% rate of hospitalization.

Introducing the NUATEI Consortium: A Mexican Research Program for the Identification of Natural and Synthetic Antimicrobial Compounds for Prevalent Infectious Diseases

Introducing the NUATEI Consortium: A Mexican Research Program for the Identification of Natural and Synthetic Antimicrobial Compounds for Prevalent Infectious Diseases

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 theimpact 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.

Early-Life Disease Exposure and Its Heterogeneous Effects on Mortality Throughout Life: Sweden, 1905-2016.

Exposure to infectious diseases in early life has been linked to increased mortality risk in later life in high-disease settings, such as eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Europe. Less is known about the long-term effects of early-life disease exposure in milder disease environments. This study estimates heterogeneous effects from disease exposure in infancy on later-life mortality in twentieth-century Sweden, by socioeconomic status at birth and sex. Using historical population data for southern Sweden, we study 11,515 individuals who were born in 1905-1929 from age 1 until age 85. We measure exposure to disease using the local post-early neonatal mortality rate in the first 12 months after birth and apply flexible parametric survival models. For females, we find a negative effect on life expectancy (scarring) at ages 1-85 following high disease exposure in infancy, particularly for those born to unskilled workers. For males, we find no negative effect on later-life survival, likely because stronger mortality selection in infancy outweighs scarring. Thus, even as the incidence of infectious diseases declined at the start of the twentieth century, early-life disease exposure generated long-lasting negative but heterogeneous population health effects.

Relationship Between Health Literacy Level and the Adoption of Preventive Behaviors Against Coronavirus Disease

Background: Health literacy skills play a pivotal role in adopting preventive behaviors. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought renewed emphasis on health-oriented behaviors, and health literacy is considered one of the most influential indicators affecting health-centric behaviors. Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the relationship between the level of health literacy and the adoption of preventive behaviors against COVID-19 among students at Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz. Methods: In this study, the research population comprised 223 newly enrolled students from seven main faculties at Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz in the year 2022. Participants were randomly selected, and data collection instruments included a COVID-19 prevention questionnaire and a health literacy questionnaire for adults. The questionnaire links and study participation consent forms were sent to the participants. Inclusion criteria consisted of willingness and consent to participate in the study, and enrollment in the first year of study (either the first or second semester) in various academic levels at Ahvaz University of Medical Sciences. The exit criteria were defined as failure to respond to more than 5% of the questions. After data collection, descriptive statistics, correlation coefficient tests, and regression analysis were employed using SPSS software for data analysis. Results: The findings revealed that women, married individuals, employed participants, and those with underlying health conditions obtained higher scores in preventive behaviors against COVID-19 and health literacy. Regression coefficients indicated that a one-unit increase in health literacy scores could lead to a 0.439-unit increase in preventive behaviors against COVID-19. According to correlation analysis, a positive, direct, and significant correlation existed among all dimensions of health literacy and preventive behaviors against COVID-19 (P < 0.05), with the behavioral dimension being the only significant predictor of preventive behaviors. Specifically, a one-unit increase in the behavioral dimension score could result in a 0.373-unit increase in preventive behaviors against COVID-19 (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The results showed that health literacy is directly related to COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Therefore, to promote preventive behaviors against infectious diseases, special attention should be paid to health literacy and its influential dimensions. Recognizing the importance of advancing health literacy across various dimensions can significantly contribute to the control and prevention of communicable diseases.

Enhanced Point-of-Care SARS-CoV-2 Detection: Integrating RT-LAMP with Microscanning

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need for rapid and accurate diagnostic methods for various infectious diseases, including SARS-CoV-2. Traditional RT-PCR methods, while highly sensitive and specific, require complex equipment and skilled personnel. In response, we developed an integrated RT-LAMP-MS assay, which combines rapid reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) with microscanning (MS) technology for detecting SARS-CoV-2. The assay uses magnesium pyrophosphate formed during LAMP amplification as a visual marker, allowing direct observation via microscopy without the need for additional chemical indicators or probes. For the SARS-CoV-2/IC RT-LAMP-MS assay, the sample-LAMP reagent mixture was added to a microchip with SARS-CoV-2 primers and internal controls, then incubated at 62 °C for 30 min in a heat block, followed by amplification analysis using a microscanner. In clinical tests, the RT-LAMP-MS assay showed 99% sensitivity and 100% specificity, which is identical to the RT-LAMP results and comparable to the commercial AllplexTM SARS-CoV-2 assay results. Additionally, the limit of detection (LOD) was determined to be 10-¹ PFU mL⁻¹ (dynamic range: 103~10−¹ PFU mL⁻¹). The assay delivers results in 30 min, uses low-cost equipment, and demonstrates 100% reproducibility in repeated tests, making it suitable for point-of-care use in resource-limited settings.

What would John do? COVID-19 stigmatization, social distance and race

ABSTRACT Like many infectious diseases, COVID-19 is a heavily stigmatized and racialized health condition. The objective of the present study was to examine racial differences in COVID-19 stigmatization. To assess the intersection between COVID-19 stigmatization and race, we asked 568 individuals to respond to hypothetical vignettes, using a web-based survey. We presented respondents with the vignette of John, an individual infected with COVID-19 with an unspecified race, and asked them to predict how likely John might be to experience COVID-19 stigmatization. We then asked respondents to predict John’s COVID-19 stigmatization if he was Black, Chinese or Hasidic (Jewish). The study followed a 3 × 3 factorial design where there were 3 race/ethnicity groups for participants (Asian, Black, White) and 3 race/ethnicity groups for the vignette character (Chinese, Black, Hasidic). Our main findings were: (1) respondents believed that John would experience more internal shame and external problems if he was Chinese or Hasidic; (2) Black respondents believed that John would experience more external problems at work/home if John was Black; (3) Black respondents were also less likely to expect John to disclose his COVID-19 status to friends, family and neighbors; and (4) New York City residents were less likely to engage in social distancing with John. By understanding racialized perceptions about COVID-19 among diverse racial groups, we can design effective public health campaigns that do not reinforce racialized stigma.

Nano/genetically engineered cells for immunotherapy

AbstractImmunotherapy has recently emerged as a promising therapeutic modality for the treatment of various diseases such as cancer, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. Despite its potential, immunotherapy faces challenges related to delivery efficiency and off‐target toxicity of immunotherapeutic drugs. Nano drug delivery systems offer improvements in drug biodistribution and release kinetics but still suffer from shortcomings such as high immunogenicity, poor penetration across biological barriers, and insufficient tissue permeability. Targeted delivery of drugs using living cells has become an emerging strategy that can take advantage of the inherent characteristics of cells to deal with the delivery defects of nano delivery systems. Furthermore, cells themselves can be genetically engineered into cellular drugs for enhanced immunotherapy. This review provides an in‐depth exploration of cell‐derived drug carriers, detailing their biological properties, functions, and commonly used drug loading strategies. In addition, the role of genetically modified cells in immunotherapy and their synergistic therapeutic effects with drug delivery are also introduced. By summarizing the main advancements and limitations in the field, this review offers insights into the potential of cell‐based drug delivery systems to address the existing challenges in immunotherapy. The introduction to recent developments and evaluation of ongoing research will pave the way for the optimization and widespread adoption of nano/genetically engineered cells for immunotherapy.

Racial Disparities in Plasma Cytokine and Microbiome Profiles

Background: Many health issues prevalent in African American (AA) populations are associated with chronic inflammation and related health conditions, including autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, neurologic disorders, metabolic syndromes, and others. The current study aims to understand plasma microbiome translocation as a potential trigger for chronic inflammation. Methods: In this study, 16 Caucasian American (CA) and 22 African American (AA) healthy individuals were recruited. Microbial DNA was isolated from the plasma samples and sequenced via microbial 16S rRNA V3-4 sequencing. The plasma levels of 33 cytokines and chemokines were evaluated. The proinflammatory microbiomes were verified using human THP-1 cells in vitro. Results: The plasma levels of IL-6, IL-15, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and MIP-3α were higher in the AA people, whereas IL-1α and IL-27 were elevated in the CA people. The plasma microbiomes exhibited eight bacterial genera/phyla differentially enriched in the CA and AA people. Given the critical role of IL-6 in chronic inflammation and associated diseases, we identified five bacteria genera significantly associated with IL-6. The abundance of Actinomyces was positively correlated with the plasma IL-6 level (r = 0.41, p = 0.01), while the abundance of Kurthia (r = −0.34, p = 0.04), Noviherbaspirillum (r = −0.34, p = 0.04), Candidatus Protochlamydia (r = −0.36, p = 0.03), and Reyranella (r = −0.39, p = 0.02) was negatively correlated with this. Finally, the THP-1 cells treated with heat-killed bacteria produced higher levels of IL-6 in vitro in response to the Actinomyces species compared to the species in the genus either uncorrelated or negatively correlated with IL-6. Conclusions: This is the first study to report potential blood microbiome translocation as a driver for persistently elevated IL-6 levels in the periphery in healthy AA versus CA people. Understanding the plasma microbiome linked to the IL-6 levels in people with different racial backgrounds is essential to unraveling the therapeutic approaches to improve precision medicine.

Absent in Melanoma 2 Gene Associated Periodontitis and Coronary Heart Disease

Aims To study the association between AIM2 gene polymorphisms and the tendency for periodontal infection and coronary heart disease, and to determine whether males or females are more susceptible to these diseases. Additionally, we examined its association with the features of periodontal disease. Methods 140 patients were enrolled in this study, and those who took part were divided into four groups as follows: healthy (c), periodontal disease (P), coronary heart disease with intact periodontium (AS-C), and coronary heart disease with periodontal disease (AS-P). Information on entrants, including age, sex, body mass index, and indicators of periodontal disease severity, was documented. Blood samples were collected, and AIM2 gene polymorphisms were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction test, gel phase, and sequences. Results Genetic analysis of AIM2 G/T (rs2793845) revealed a high frequency of the (T) allele and (GT and TT) genotypes that were detected in the periodontal disease and coronary heart disease groups in males. The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium of alleles and genotypes did not differ significantly between the study groups. Gene polymorphisms were also significantly correlated with indicators of periodontal disease severity. Conclusion High frequenting of (T) alleles and (GT, TT) genotypes in AIM2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were associated with an increased tendency to develop periodontal disease and coronary heart disease. It can be supposed that it has a causative function in the pathophysiology of both disorders, and the validity of SNP as a potential genomic factor for the risk of both disorders in Iraqi males.

High expression of circulating exosomal PD-L1 contributes to immune escape of hepatocellular carcinoma and immune clearance of chronic hepatitis B.

To investigate the expression of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) in circulating exosomes, and to define the role of exosomal PD-L1 in promoting immune escape mechanism during chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB) and related liver diseases. The levels of PD-L1 expressed in exosomes were detected by ELISA. CD8+T cells were sorted and cytotoxicity test was assessed by flow cytometry. PD-L1 protein expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and normal adjacent tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry. Circulating exosomal PD-L1 levels were significantly higher in patients with CHB and HCC than in healthy controls (F =7.46, P=0.001). Levels of CD107a on CD8+T cells in patients with CHB receiving PD-L1 blocking antibody were significantly lower than in patients receiving isotype blocking antibody (t = 4.96, P < 0.01). Levels of TNF-α in cell culture supernatants of the PD-L1 blocking antibody group were significantly higher than in the isotype blocking antibody group (t =5.92, P < 0.01). Compared with patients receiving isotype blocking antibody, levels of CD107a on CD8+T cells significantly increased in patients with HCC receiving anti-PD-L1 antibody (t = 3.51, P<0.05). Compared with adjacent tissues, the levels of PD-L1 protein expression in HCC tissues were slightly higher; however, no significant difference between the two groups was observed. PD-L1 blockade in exosomes might promote the cytotoxic function of CD8+T cells and inhibit immune evasion during progression of HCC. Blocking PD-L1 in exosomes reduced the cytotoxic function of CD8+T cells in patients with CHB while enhancing the production of proinflammatory cytokines.

High level of genomic divergence in orf-I p12 and hbz genes of HTLV-1 subtype-C in Central Australia

BackgroundHuman T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection remains a largely neglected public health problem, particularly in resource-poor areas with high burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases, such as some remote populations in Central Australia where an estimated 37% of adults are infected with HTLV-1. Most of our understanding of HTLV-1 infection comes from studies of the globally spread subtype-A (HTLV-1a), with few molecular studies reported with the Austral-Melanesian subtype-C (HTLV-1c) predominant in the Indo-Pacific and Oceania regions.ResultsUsing a primer walking strategy and direct sequencing, we constructed HTLV-1c genomic consensus sequences from 22 First Nations participants living with HTLV-1c in Central Australia. Phylogenetic and pairwise analysis of this subtype-C proviral gDNA showed higher levels of genomic divergence in comparison to previously published HTLV-1a genomes. While the overall genomic homology between subtypes was 92.5%, the lowest nucleotide and amino acid sequence identity occurred near the 3′ end of the proviral genome coding regulatory genes, especially overlapping hbz (85.37%, 77.46%, respectively) and orf-I product p12 (82.00%, 70.30%, respectively). Strikingly, the HTLV-1c genomic consensus sequences uniformly showed a defective translation start codon for the immune regulatory proteins p12/p8 encoded by the HTLV-1A orf-I. Deletions in the proviral genome were detected in many subjects, particularly in the structural gag, pol and env genes. Similarly, using a droplet digital PCR assay measuring the copies of gag and tax per reference host genome, we quantitatively confirmed that provirus retains the tax gene region at higher levels than gag.ConclusionsOur genomic analysis of HTLV-1c in Central Australia in conjunction with earlier Melanesian HTLV-1c sequences, elucidate substantial differences with respect to the globally spread HTLV-1a. Future studies should address the impact these genomic differences have on infection and the regionally distinctive frequency of associated pulmonary disease. Understanding the host and virus subtype factors which contribute to the differential morbidity observed, is crucial for the development of much needed therapeutics and vaccine strategies against this highly endemic infection in remote First Nations communities in Central Australia.

A Microsimulation Model of Mpox (Monkeypox) in Los Angeles County (LAC): Implications for Future Disease Prevention and Control Strategies among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM)

Abstract Background The 2022 mpox outbreak in Los Angeles County (LAC) emphasized the need to prepare for emergent infectious disease outbreaks. Vaccination and promotion of sexual risk reduction practices appeared successful in LAC, as mpox cases declined starting in August. Nonetheless, questions persisted regarding the effectiveness of targeting vaccinations and the role of sexual risk reduction in reducing mpox cases. Methods We collaborated with the LAC Department of Public Health to develop a microsimulation for men who have sex with men (MSM). This model tracked mpox dynamics by age, race/ethnicity, and HIV status, and was calibrated and validated against surveillance data. We simulated counterfactual scenarios to understand the effects of variation in vaccination rates, timing of vaccination roll-out, vaccine allocation, and sexual contact rates. Results In the simulation, doubling the vaccination rate reduced cumulative cases over a 40-week time horizon by 13% but would necessitate 88,995 additional doses. Initiating vaccination two weeks earlier decreased cases by 11%, while an 8-week delay yielded a 20% increase in cases. A three-week earlier decrease in sexual contact rates reduced cumulative cases by 60%, while a three-week delay resulted in a 95% increase. Prioritizing people with HIV (PWH) for vaccination reduced cumulative cases while allocating vaccines to a single racial/ethnic group was not effective. Conclusions Our study highlights the significance of policies to support timely vaccination and sexual partnership reduction to address mpox outbreaks among MSM. These findings also underscore the need to target vulnerable risk groups, such as PWH.

Determining Diagnostic Sensitivity: A Comparison of Rose Bengal Test, Coombs Gel Test, ELISA and Bacterial Culture in Brucellosis Diagnosis—Analyzing Clinical Effectiveness in Light of Inflammatory Markers

Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic infectious disease. It is estimated that the number of cases reported today is much less than the actual number. We still have difficulty in diagnosing the disease and its organ involvement. In this sense, new approaches that can be useful in clinical practice are required, and we aimed to evaluate this situation in our study. Methods: 171 of 213 patients followed in our center between January 2021 and April 2024 were included in the study. A total of 150 patients were included in the study as a control group. Rose Bengal test (RBT), Coombs gel test (CGT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and automated blood culture were used for diagnosing brucellosis. Complete blood count, sedimentation, C-reactive protein, and biochemical parameters were obtained. Inflammation markers such as neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, platelet–lymphocyte ratio, systemic immune-inflammation index, and systemic inflammation response index were calculated. Results: The most successful results in the diagnosis were ELISA (89.4%), RBT (88.3%), CGT (83%), and blood culture (34.8%). For diagnosing sacroiliitis and spondylodiscitis, instead of resorting to expensive methods like magnetic resonance, a combination of ELISA positivity with elevated acute phase reactants and inflammatory markers could be significantly instructive. Conclusions: Optimizing diagnostic algorithms and exploring novel diagnostic approaches, such as inflammatory markers, hold promise for improving diagnosis and management.

High silent prevalence of human herpesvirus 1 (HSV-1) infection affecting the indigenous reservation of the municipality of Dourados, Central-West Brazil

BackgroundThe indigenous population located in the central region of Brazil, is the second largest in terms of population size in the country. The Indigenous Reserve of Dourados has risk factors that increase the vulnerability of the indigenous population to infectious diseases, especially Human alphaherpesvirus (HSV-1), a neglected disease with high prevalence in priority populations in developing countries. The virus can also cause many more severe diseases, including widespread neonatal infections, herpetic keratitis, and herpes encephalitis, which can be fatal if left untreated. We estimated the prevalence of anti-HSV-1 antibodies and correlated it with the demographic and behavioral characteristics of the Indigenous population of the Jaguapirú and Bororó villages (Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil).MethodsOur approach was cross-sectional. From March 2017 to November 2018. Using anti-HSV-1 (Gg1) IgM and anti-HSV-1 (gG1) IgG Euroimmun and the detection and quantification of HSV-1 viral load in plasma samples, through real-time PCR. The maps were constructed using QGIS and the statistical analyses using R Studio software.ResultsA total of 1138 individuals (> 18 years old) were enrolled. The prevalence of anti-HSV-1 IgM and IgG were 20% and 97.5%, respectively. The prevalence of anti-HSV-1 antibodies for IgG was higher in both sexes. Anti-HSV-1 IgM antibodies were present in 17.1%, 21.2%, 12.5%, and 22% of the participants with urinary problems, genital wounds, genital warts, and urethral discharge, respectively. Real-time PCR was used for confirmatory testing; HSV-1 DNA was detected in 25.6% (54/211) of anti-HSV1 IgM-positive samples. Viral loads ranged from 5.99E + 02 to 3.36E + 13.ConclusionsThe seroprevalence of HSV-1 IgM and detection of HSV-1 DNA in the Indigenous population confirmed high silent prevalence. Furthermore, the seroprevalence of HSV-1 in the Indigenous population was higher than that reported in the general adult Brazilian population. Various socioeconomic factors, drug use, and health and sexual behaviors could contribute to the facilitation of HSV-1 transmission in the Indigenous population. Our results may help develop culturally appropriate intervention programs that eliminate health access barriers and improve the implementation of public health policies aimed at promoting information regarding the prevention, treatment, and control of HSV-1 infection in Brazilian Indigenous populations.

Tracking of Infectious Diseases and Deadly Injuries through Signs Observed in Excavated Human Skeletons of 2000 BC/Iron Age in Iran

Background: Throughout history, many wars have occurred for various reasons, and many empires and kings have fallen or many people killed by wars. Wars were not always due to the conquest of the country. in the Iron Age, societies were governed by tribes at the head of the tribe, and war was only for to seize property, slaves, and food. Our research area is the same period as the Medes Kingdom, which included the union of small, large tribes, wars between tribes existed in that period, and their signs can be seen on the remains of the people of that period. Methods: Our research is related to human remains from Sagezabad cemetery, Qazvin plain, which dates back to 2000 BC (Iron Age 2 and 3) in Iran. Results: The blows on the remains were very serious and caused death. We have discussed how to kill by “considering the injured body”. Conclusion: Our investigation of how people were killed in war based on injury marks and bullet holes in bones, and simulating those injuries to body tissues and organs also, people who had bone cuts from the war and survived and had bone repair and died due to lack of nutrients and infection were also discussed.