Infection Prevention Research Articles

Longitudinal genomic surveillance of a UK intensive care unit shows a lack of patient colonisation by multi-drug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial pathogens.

Vulnerable patients in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting are at high risk of infection from bacteria including gut-colonising Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species. Complex ICU procedures often depend on successful antimicrobial treatment, underscoring the importance of understanding the extent of patient colonisation by multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in large UK ICUs. Previous work on ICUs globally uncovered high rates of colonisation by transmission of MDROs, but the situation in UK ICUs is less understood. Here, we investigated the diversity and antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) carriage of bacteria present in one of the largest UK ICUs at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB), focusing primarily on E. coli as both a widespread commensal and a globally disseminated multi-drug-resistant pathogen. Samples were taken during highly restrictive coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) control measures from May to December 2021. Whole-genome and metagenomic sequencing were used to detect and report strain-level colonisation of patients, focusing on E. coli sequence types (STs), their colonisation dynamics and antimicrobial resistance gene carriage. We found a lack of multi-drug resistance (MDR) in the QEHB. Only one carbapenemase-producing organism was isolated, a Citrobacter carrying bla KPC-2. There was no evidence supporting the spread of this strain, and there was little evidence overall of nosocomial acquisition or circulation of colonising E. coli. Whilst 22 different E. coli STs were identified, only 1 strain of the pandemic ST131 lineage was isolated. This ST131 strain was non-MDR and was found to be a clade A strain, associated with low levels of antibiotic resistance. Overall, the QEHB ICU had very low levels of pandemic or MDR strains, a result that may be influenced in part by the strict COVID-19 control measures in place at the time. Employing some of these infection prevention and control measures where reasonable in all ICUs might therefore assist in maintaining low levels of nosocomial MDR.

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection Prevention: Progress and Challenges.

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection Prevention: Progress and Challenges.

COVID-19 vaccine uptake and associated factors among individuals living in a peri-urban area in Uganda: A cross-sectional study.

The Corona virus disease (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that is caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus was first reported in China in December 2019. It then spread to all countries and from March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic. In Uganda, the disease was first reported in March 2020 and COVID-19 vaccines became available by January 2021. Although COVID-19 vaccines were available in Uganda, uptake remained low. The aim of this study was to establish COVID-19 vaccine uptake awareness in a peri-urban setting in Entebbe City, Uganda. This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 127 men and 263 women who reside in Entebbe City, Uganda. Data was collected on socio-behavioral characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) about COVID-19 vaccine using interviewer administered questionnaires. Uptake of COVID-19 vaccine was defined as the proportion of participants who had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. We used descriptive statistics to estimate awareness of COVID-19 vaccines. The 'chi-square test' and 'modified Poisson regression' were used to assess variations in uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among respondents and their socio-demographics as well as other characteristics. Ninety-nine percent (388 out of 390) of the study population were aware of at least one brand of COVID-19 vaccines in the country. Thirty-five percent (138 out of 390) knew that the vaccine immunity was achieved 14 days after the 2nd dose and 98.7% (385 out of 390) admitted that observing the standard operating procedure for COVID-19 infection prevention was necessary after vaccination. There was a gap in knowledge on vaccine safety reported by 74.6% (291 out of 390) participants. Some participants 37.2% (145 out of 390) had concerns about the vaccine. Of these, 57.9% (84 out of 145) believed that the vaccines were not helpful; and 30.3% (44 out of 145) feared serious side effects. Sixty-six percent (257 out of 390) believed that vaccines were not working and 79.0% (308 out of 390) admitted that vaccines were promoted for financial gain. At the time of performing the study, 36.2% and 22.3% had received the 1st and 2nd dose respectively. The main sources of information on COVID-19 vaccine were television (TV) and social media (p-value 0.001). In a multivariate model, COVID-19 vaccine acceptability was associated with salaried and self-employment (p-value 0.046). The other predicative factors were awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine (p-value <0.001) and having vaccine concerns (p-value 0.013). Uptake of COVID-19 vaccination in Entebbe community was low, partly attributed to knowledge gaps and concerns about vaccine safety and effectiveness. This highlights the need to enhance dissemination of information about COVID-19 vaccine. The lessons learnt in this study would be relevant for other emerging infections by informing vaccination implementation programs in similar settings.

Contextual barriers to infection prevention and control program implementation in hospitals in Latin America: a mixed methods evaluation

BackgroundInfection prevention and control (IPC) programs are essential to prevent and control the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms in healthcare facilities (HCFs). The current implementation of these programs in Latin America remains largely unknown.MethodsWe conducted a mixed-methods evaluation of IPC program implementation in HCFs from Guatemala, Panama, Ecuador, and Argentina, March-July 2022. We used the World Health Organization (WHO) IPC Assessment Framework (IPCAF) survey, a previously validated structured questionnaire with an associated scoring system that evaluates the eight core components of IPC (IPC program; IPC guidelines; IPC education and training; healthcare-associated infection [HAI] surveillance; multimodal strategies; monitoring and audit of IPC practices and feedback; workload, staffing, and bed occupancy; and the built environment and materials and equipment for IPC). Each section generates a score 0–100. According to the final score, the HCF IPC program implementation is categorized into four levels: inadequate (0–200), basic (201–400), intermediate (401–600), or advanced (601–800). Additionally, we conducted semi-structured interviews among IPC personnel and microbiologists using the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model to evaluate barriers and facilitators for IPC program implementation. We performed directed content analysis of interview transcripts to identify themes that focused on barriers and facilitators of IPC program implementation which are summarized descriptively.ResultsThirty-seven HCFs (15 for-profit and 22 non-profit) completed the IPCAF survey. The overall median score was 614 (IQR 569, 693) which corresponded to an “advanced” level of IPC implementation (32% [7/22] non-profit vs. 93% [14/15] for-profit HCFs in this category). The lowest scores were in workload, staffing and bed occupancy followed by IPC training and multimodal strategies. Forty individuals from 16 HCFs were interviewed. They perceived inadequate staffing and technical resources, limited leadership support, and cultural determinants as major barriers to effective IPC guideline implementation, while external accreditation and technical support from public health authorities were perceived as facilitators.ConclusionsEfforts to strengthen IPC activities in Latin American HCFs should focus on improving support from hospital leadership and public health authorities to ensure better resource allocation, promoting safety culture, and improving training in quality improvement.

Longitudinal genomics reveals carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii population changes with emergence of highly resistant ST164 clone

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is a persistent nosocomial pathogen that poses a significant threat to global public health, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs). Here we report a three-month longitudinal genomic surveillance study conducted in a Hangzhou ICU in 2021. This followed a three-month study conducted in the same ICU in 2019, and infection prevention and control (IPC) interventions targeting patients, staff and the ICU environment. Most A. baumannii isolated in this ICU in 2021 were CRAB (80.9%; 419/518) with higher-level resistance to carbapenems. This was accompanied by the proportion of global clone 2 (GC2) isolates falling from 99.5% in 2019 to 50.8% (213/419) in 2021. The phylogenetic diversity of GC2 increased, apparently driven by regular introductions of distinct clusters in association with patients. The remaining CRAB (40.2%; 206/419) were a highly clonal population of ST164. Isolates of ST164 carried blaNDM-1 and blaOXA-23 carbapenemase genes, and exhibited higher carbapenem MIC50/MIC90 values than GC2. Comparative analysis of publicly available genomes from 26 countries (five continents) revealed that ST164 has evolved towards carbapenem resistance on multiple independent occasions. Its success in this ICU and global capacity for acquiring resistance determinants indicate that ST164 CRAB is an emerging high-risk lineage of global concern.

Bone‐Induced Nanocomposite Coating with a “Sandwich” Structure

AbstractInfection‐induced bone defects present significant challenges in clinical bone regeneration, frequently leading to poor bone induction, recurring infections, and complications such as pain and chronic inflammation. This study introduces a novel Ti/Lignin‐Ag@PLL composite coating with a “sandwich” structure, designed to integrate pro‐adhesion, photothermal‐photodynamic antibacterial, and osteogenic properties. The Ti/Lignin‐Ag@PLL composite coating is fabricated using self‐assembly technology, in which Ag+ is reduced to silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) by lignin, followed by Polylysine (PLL) grafting. Photothermal conversion efficiency is evaluated under near‐infrared (NIR) laser irradiation, while antibacterial activity is tested against E. coli and S. aureus. Biocompatibility is also assessed using vascular endothelial cells (VECs) and osteoblasts (OBs). The results indicate that the Ti/Lignin‐Ag@PLL coating demonstrates a 31% photothermal conversion efficiency and nearly 100% antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) under NIR irradiation for 10 min. Without irradiation, the antibacterial rates are 85% and 94%, respectively, after 24 h. Additionally, the coating significantly promotes cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenesis, as evidenced by the upregulation of Runx2 and Collagen I. This study uniquely contributes to the development of a multifunctional composite coating that effectively combines robust antibacterial properties with enhanced osteogenic potential, offering a promising solution for bone tissue repair and infection prevention.

The Role of Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Combating Infection in Health Facilities: A Systematic Review

Infection control in health facilities is critical for patient safety, with interdisciplinary collaboration emerging as a significant factor in reducing infection rates. This systematic review examines the role of collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and laboratory technicians, in combating infections within healthcare settings. Utilizing databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, 32 studies published between 2014 and 2024 were analyzed, focusing on collaboration models, infection control outcomes, and the barriers and facilitators of teamwork. The findings reveal that interdisciplinary collaboration enhances adherence to infection control protocols, fosters clear communication, and improves overall compliance with hygiene practices. Key benefits include reduced healthcare-associated infections, faster response to infection outbreaks, and improved patient outcomes. However, challenges such as communication gaps, unclear role definitions, and limited resources hinder effective collaboration. The review suggests that structured interdisciplinary practices, supported by training, leadership engagement, and integrated technology, are essential for effective infection control. These insights can guide healthcare administrators and policymakers in strengthening infection prevention strategies. Future research should focus on evaluating the long-term impact of collaboration on infection rates and examining the roles of specific professionals in infection control.

Nurse Perceptions of Barriers to Infection Prevention and Control in Labor and Delivery

ObjectiveTo identify nurse perceptions of barriers to performing recommended infection prevention and control practices in labor and delivery to inform future resources tailored to this setting. DesignQualitative focus groups. SettingThe 2023 annual convention of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, New Orleans, LA. ParticipantsA convenience sample of 16 labor and delivery nurses. MethodsStaff of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted two focus groups using a standardized script. Coding was performed by three reviewers using Krueger’s systematic analysis process. ResultsAmong the 16 participants, 94% were registered nurses, and 6% were advanced practice registered nurses. From our analysis of the data, five major themes emerged, including the following: Lack of Individual and Organizational Accountability in Implementing Recommended Infection Prevention and Control Practices; Inconsistent Application of Guidance Across State, Hospital, and Specialty; The Unpredictable Nature of the Labor and Delivery Setting; Labor and Delivery Is Not Prioritized in the Hospital for Infection Prevention and Control Resources; and Lack of Coordination Across Stages of Care From Prenatal to Postpartum. Conclusion(s)We identified barriers experienced by nurses to consistently implementing infection prevention and control practices in the labor and delivery setting. These barriers can be addressed through targeted interventions and the development of obstetric-specific infection prevention and control resources.

Prevention and Treatment of Cancer-Related Infections, Version 3.2024, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

There is an increased risk of infection in patients with cancer that results in higher morbidity and mortality. Several risk factors can predispose these patients to infectious complications. Some such factors include immunocompromised states like neutropenia, allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation, and graft-versus-host disease, while others include immunosuppressive agents like corticosteroids, purine analogs, monoclonal antibodies, and other emerging cancer therapeutics like CAR T-cell therapy. The NCCN Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Cancer-Related Infections address infection concerns that may be observed in these immunocompromised populations and characterize the major pathogens to which patients with cancer are susceptible, with a focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of major common and opportunistic infections. This paper highlights 2 recently updated sections of the guidelines, namely, infection concerns related to CAR T-cell therapy and antimicrobial prophylaxis recommendations, including vaccination, in patients at high-risk for infections.

A survey of US and Caribbean veterinary schools reveals strengths and opportunities in antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention and control activities.

To understand antimicrobial stewardship (AS) and infection prevention and control (IPC) activities in veterinary schools. An online survey was completed by representatives from American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges-accredited veterinary schools in the US and Caribbean prior to attending the Inaugural Small Animal Antimicrobial Stewardship Workshop for US Veterinary Schools. Responses were examined to identify patterns among AS and IPC activities and adherence to the AVMA core principles. Half (12 of 24) of the surveyed schools had an AS committee and most (79% [19 of 24]) had an IPC committee. Lack of dedicated staff time was a common barrier to AS (88% [21 of 24]) and IPC (75% [18 of 24]) reported by schools both with and without AS and IPC committees. Eleven of 24 schools (46%) reported performing at least 1 activity focused on each of the AVMA's 5 core principles of AS. Although 79% (19 of 24) of schools incorporate AS into preclinical curricula, training of clinical faculty (17% [4 of 24]), veterinary technicians and support staff (21% [5 of 24]), and house officers (42% [10 of 24]) is less common, despite these individuals engaging in teaching clinical-year veterinary students. Veterinary schools varied in established AS education and AS and IPC practices, though financial and human resources were a common barrier. A collaborative and cohesive approach to AS and IPC among schools to create sustainable frameworks for practice improvement will help combat the global threat of antimicrobial resistance. This is a critical action for settings where future veterinarians are trained.

Hospitalization Due to Infections Before and After Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis

ObjectivesThere is a lack of studies on the rate and temporal changes of infections in relation to Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis. We studied the infection rate in persons with and without AD yearly 5 years before and after AD diagnosis. DesignRegister-based cohort study. Setting and ParticipantsWe used the Medication Use and Alzheimer's Disease cohort with 70,718 Finnish community dwellers diagnosed with AD between 2005 and 2011 and an equal number of age, sex- and region-of-residence–matched comparison persons. MethodsData on comorbidities, medication use, and hospital days due to infection were retrieved from multiple nationwide registers. The rate of hospitalization and accrued hospital days due to infections were calculated yearly during the follow-up. The accumulation of hospital days was investigated with the negative binomial model. ResultsDuring the follow-up, one-half of persons with AD had inpatient stays due to infections compared with 34% of persons without AD. The infection rate increased substantially 1 to 2 years before AD diagnosis. At AD diagnosis, the rate of inpatient stays and outpatient visits due to infection was higher (15 per 100 person-years) in persons with AD than in comparison persons (9 per 100 person-years), and the accumulation of hospital days in persons with AD was higher a year after the diagnosis (incidence rate ratio, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.11-1.32) due to higher infection rate. The most common infection diagnoses in both groups were pneumonia and genitourinary infections. Conclusions and ImplicationsCompared with matched comparison persons, the higher hospitalization rate due to infections could be caused by systemic inflammation related to AD, infections generally treated in outpatient care, delirium symptoms associated with infections, and caregiver burden. The prevention of infections should be part of the care of cognitive disorders throughout the disease.

Infection Prevention and Control Response and Escalation Framework – evaluation and application beyond a pandemic

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic brought rapid and frequent changes to Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) recommendations making it difficult for clinicians to stay informed of the most recent requirements and guidelines. The COVID-19 IPAC Response and Escalation Framework (IPAC Framework) was developed to provide scalable IPAC guidance during the pandemic to healthcare in New South Wales, Australia. The use of such frameworks during or outside of a pandemic has rarely been reported and evaluated here. MethodsUsing a thematic analysis approach, a qualitative study using an online, cross-sectional survey comprising 27 questions was sent to 248 key stakeholders. Participants were health workers with broad clinical and system representation with responsibilities for risk assessment, communicating, implementing and/or monitoring the IPAC Framework. ResultsThe IPAC Framework provided a useful IPAC tool for the management of COVID-19 as perceived by 93% of respondents. The overwhelming majority (91%) reported the Framework provided enough information on IPAC strategies needed for COVID-19 that were aligned with transmission risk. Resources supporting the IPAC Framework were reported by most respondents (84%) as being widely accepted as the authoritative guidance. ConclusionAn IPAC response and escalation framework is perceived as highly useful by clinicians and administrators to manage IPAC requirements in health care during a pandemic. The IPAC Framework can be applied more generally to support ongoing IPAC requirements.

Integration of ZnO‐Ag Nanocomposites into PMMA Thin Film for Enhanced Antibacterial Applications

AbstractThe exploration of advanced materials has become imperative for addressing challenges in diverse fields, including healthcare and infection prevention. This research contributes to this domain by focusing on the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of ZnO‐Ag nanocomposites and embedding them in PMMA matrix to obtain free‐standing flexible membrane with enhanced antibacterial potential and reusability of material. The study employs a solvothermal method for the decoration of silver nanoparticles onto zinc oxide nanorods, with the objective of harnessing the synergistic antibacterial properties of both materials. The study evaluates the antibacterial potential of the nanocomposites through well diffusion and growth kinetic assays, revealing their enhanced efficacy with a zone of inhibition (ZOI) of 21 ± 1.05 mm against Escherichia coli (E. coli). The implications of this research extend to the realm of biomedical applications, positioning the nanocomposite‐polymer membrane as promising candidates for infection prevention in healthcare premises.

Change starts at home: summary of the 2023 inaugural Small Animal Antimicrobial Stewardship Workshop for US Veterinary Schools.

Small animal antimicrobial stewardship (AS) is emerging as a priority area in the global battle against antimicrobial resistance. Veterinary practices have limited support for implementation of AS programs, and even within veterinary schools, efforts are largely siloed and often limited in scope. Increased collaboration is needed to support and unify AS and infection prevention and control efforts, and to identify priorities for continued research. To address this, a 2-day in-person small animal AS workshop was held in August 2023. Delegates representing 23 US veterinary schools and 4 corporations/government agencies gathered for a series of lightning talks and focused group discussions in 3 domains: implementation of clinical AS programs, research opportunities and needs, and education. The workshop's goal was to identify and propose solutions for AS challenges. Meeting discussion identified a lack of resources and training as the greatest barriers to hospital AS program advancement and suggested creating standards for AS programs and a road map to support program development. Assessing antimicrobial treatment effects and performing studies to establish necessary treatment durations were considered the highest research priorities. Integrated educational practices were recommended to support unified messaging of AS concepts between preclinical and clinical training. The development of strategies to implement these suggestions was delegated to working groups with a goal to continue meeting biennially as a large group. Sharing news of these efforts is considered integral to heightening awareness and promoting implementation of AS practices moving forward in academic, specialty, and primary care settings.

Neutralizing VHH Antibodies Targeting the Spike Protein of PEDV

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is a highly contagious coronavirus that infect pigs’ intestinal epithelial cells, causing high morbidity and mortality. Due to the rapid mutation of PEDV, vaccine efficacy is uncertain, prompting exploration of alternative treatments. Nanobodies, also known as variable heavy chain domains of heavy chain-only antibodies (VHHs), offer significant potential in biomedical applications due to their small size and high specificity. In this study, yeast two-hybrid technology was employed to screen for eight specific VHH sequences targeting the PEDV S protein from a synthetically constructed nanobody yeast library. The VHH genes were then cloned into expression plasmids for recombinant protein production, and the resulting VHHs (termed PEDV S-VHHs) were purified. Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and Western blotting analysis confirmed that these VHHs specifically bind to both PEDV and its S protein. Neutralization assays demonstrated that seven PEDV S-VHHs exhibited potent neutralizing activity against PEDV. Additionally, a combination of these seven antibodies showed enhanced antiviral effects. Preliminary predictions were also made regarding the binding sites between these VHHs and PEDV. The PEDV S-VHHs described in this study hold potential as candidates for the prevention and treatment of PEDV infection.

Efficacy of a saline wash plus vancomycin/tobramycin-doped PVA composite (PVA-VAN/TOB-P) in a mouse pouch infection model implanted with 3D-printed porous titanium cylinders.

The efficacy of saline irrigation for treatment of implant-associated infections is limited in the presence of porous metallic implants. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of antibiotic doped bioceramic (vancomycin/tobramycin-doped polyvinyl alcohol composite (PVA-VAN/TOB-P)) after saline wash in a mouse infection model implanted with titanium cylinders. Air pouches created in female BalBc mice by subcutaneous injection of air. In the first of two independent studies, pouches were implanted with titanium cylinders (400, 700, and 100 µm pore sizes) and inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus (1 × 103 or 1 × 106 colony-forming units (CFU)/pouch) to establish infection and biofilm formation. Mice were killed after one week for microbiological analysis. In the second study, pouches were implanted with 400 µm titanium cylinders and inoculated with S. aureus (1 × 103 or 1 × 106 CFU/pouch). Four groups were tested: 1) no bacteria; 2) bacteria without saline wash; 3) saline wash only; and 4) saline wash plus PVA-VAN/TOB-P. After seven days, the pouches were opened and washed with saline alone, or had an additional injection of PVA-VAN/TOB-P. Mice were killed 14 days after pouch wash. The first part of the study showed that low-grade infection was more significant in 400 µm cylinders than cylinders with larger pore sizes (p < 0.05). The second part of the study showed that saline wash alone was ineffective in eradicating both low- and high-grade infections. Saline plus PVA-VAN/TOB-P eradicated the titanium cylinder-associated infections, as manifested by negative cultures of the washouts and supported by scanning electron microscopy and histology. Porous titanium cylinders were vulnerable to bacterial infection and biofilm formation that could not be treated by saline irrigation alone. Application of PVA-VAN/TOB-P directly into the surgical site alone or after saline wash represents a feasible approach for prevention and/or treatment of porous implant-related infections.

Improving central venous catheter care with chlorhexidine gluconate dressings: evidence from a systematic review and Meta-analysis

BackgroundThe prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) is a critical priority in the clinical management of central venous catheters (CVCs). This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of chlorhexidine gluconate antibacterial dressings in the context of CVC care.MethodsA systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase et al. databases up to May 28, 2024. The search targeted randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the impact of chlorhexidine gluconate antibacterial dressings on CVC-related outcomes. The meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 software.ResultsThe final analysis included 14 RCTs involving a total of 8920 patients with CVCs, with participants divided into a chlorhexidine antibacterial dressing group (n = 4731) and a control group (n = 4189). The chlorhexidine dressing group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of CRBSI compared to the control group, with a relative risk (RR) of 0.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.36–0.64, P < 0.001. The chlorhexidine dressing group also showed a significant decrease in bacterial colonization, with an RR of 0.46, 95% CI 0.38–0.55, P < 0.001. Assessment of publication bias through funnel plot asymmetry and Egger’s test revealed no significant bias in the included studies (all P > 0.05).ConclusionsThere is a notable reduction in the incidence of CRBSI and bacterial colonization in patients with CVCs through the application of chlorhexidine gluconate dressings. Given the compelling evidence, the integration of these dressings into standard nursing care protocols for the management of CVCs is advocated.

Virus-like Particles vaccine based on co-expression of G5 Porcine rotavirus VP2-VP6-VP7 induces a powerful immune protective response in mice

Porcine rotavirus (PoRV), a member of the Reoviridae family, constitutes a principal etiological agent of acute diarrhea in piglets younger than eight weeks of age, and it is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality within the swine industry. The G5 genotype rotavirus strain currently predominates in circulation. To develop a safe and effective porcine rotavirus vaccine, we generated an insect cell-baculovirus expression system, and successfully expressed these three viral proteins and assembled them into virus-like particles (VLPs) co-displaying VP2, VP6, and VP7. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that the VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs exhibited a "wheeled" morphology resembling that of native rotavirus particles, with an estimated diameter of approximately 65nm. To evaluate the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of these VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs, we immunized BALB/C mice with four escalating doses of the VLPs, ranging from 5 to 40μg of VLP protein per dose. ELISA-based assessments of PoRV-specific antibodies and T cell cytokines, including IL-4, IL-2, and IFN-γ, demonstrate that immunization with VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs can effectively elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses in mice, resulting in a notable induction of neutralizing antibodies. On days 4, 6, 8, and 10 post-infection (dpi), the VLP-vaccinated group exhibited significantly reduced levels of PoRV RNA copy numbers when compared to the PBS controls. Histological examination of the duodenum, ileum, and kidneys revealed that VP2-VP6-VP7 VLPs provided effective protection against PoRV induced intestinal injury. Collectively, these findings indicate that the VLPs generated in this study possess strong immunogenicity and suggest the considerable promise of the VLP-based vaccine candidate in the prevention and containment of Porcine Rotavirus infections.

The challenge of triple intestinal parasite infections in immigrants-A call for comprehensive differential diagnosis.

Screening for parasitic infections among displaced populations including migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons is crucial to prevent long-term complications associated with untreated infections. Additionally, prompt treatment with appropriate medications like praziquantel and albendazole can lead to significant improvement and successful patient outcomes. This case highlights the necessity of heightened awareness, early detection, and effective management of parasitic infections to enhance public health efforts and minimize the spread of these diseases. Implementing multisectoral One Health will improve human, animal, and environmental health globally using limited resources. Parasitic infections including Schistosoma spp., hookworm, and Strongyloides spp. are commonly co-existing diseases in underdeveloped countries including South Sudan and Sudan. These infections are often presented with no specific symptoms, therefore they remain undetected and eventually leading to long-term complications. Latent parasitic infections among adults particularly displaced population like migrants and refugees have recently gained global attention. In this case report, we present the case of a young male immigrant from South Sudan with multi-parasitic infections. The patient was admitted to a hospital complaining of gastrointestinal symptoms of hematemesis and melena, which were accompanied by signs of liver and spleen enlargement, coupled with low blood cell counts. While liver function tests showed no abnormalities, stool examinations confirmed the presence of S. mansoni, hook worm eggs, and Rhabditiform first-stage larvae of S. stercoralis. The patient was treated with medications such as praziquantel and albendazole, which resulted in full recovery and discharge from the hospital. This case highlights the importance of considering multiple infections among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in endemic areas. Cost-effective prevention and control strategy require the implementation of a multisectoral One Health strategy for the surveillance, prevention, and control of parasitic infections in human, animals, and the environment.

Miconazole-splitomicin combined β-glucan hydrogel for effective prevention of Candida albicans Periprosthetic Joint Infection

As one of the most common and serious infections caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans), periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) increasingly concerns surgeons and scientists. Generally, biofilms shield C. albicans from antifungal agents and immune clearance and induce drug-resistant strains. Developing novel strategies for PJI to get rid of current drug-resistant problems is highly needed. In our study, splitomicin (SP) can inhibit the mycelium formation of C. albicans and enhance the drug sensitivity of C. albicans to miconazole nitrate (MCZ). The combination of SP and MCZ significantly inhibited the viability, proliferation and adhesion of C. albicans, reduced the yeast to hyphae transition and biofilm formation. When SP and MCZ were coloaded in the β-glucan hydrogel, a viscoelastic solid with porous 3D network, sustained release and erosion properties was obtained. In the in vivo PJI mice model, SP-MCZ-β-glucan hydrogel effectively reduced the colonization and aggregation of C. albicans around the implant, reduced the pathological changes caused by C. albicans in the femur tissue. Therefore, SP-MCZ-β-glucan hydrogel holds a great promise for the management of C. albicans infection around joint prosthesis.