Infection-related Parameters Research Articles

Safety of flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy with 365μm fibers of Ho: YAG laser: a short-term follow-up.

Our previous study first reported the efficacy of FURL using 365μm fibers with holmium: yttrium aluminum garnet (Ho: YAG) laser lithotripsy. This study evaluates the 16-week safety of this procedure. A prospective cohort study was conducted, and the clinical characteristics of patients who underwent FURL using 365μm fibers with Ho: YAG laser were retrospectively collected. Descriptive statistics were reported, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify risk factors influencing the stone-free rate (SFR). Infection-related laboratory parameters, including white blood cell count (WBC), procalcitonin (PCT), and C-reactive protein (CRP), were collected. Regression analysis was conducted to identify risk factors for the development of urosepsis post-surgery. Additionally, a 16-week follow-up was conducted in outpatient clinics, and kidney function was assessed. A total of 274 patients participated in this study. The 4-week stone-free rate (SFR) following FURL with 365μm fibers of Ho: YAG laser was significantly associated with stone size and composition. No severe complications were observed following FURL procedures. There were no significant differences in white blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) in peripheral blood before and after FURL procedures. Urosepsis was diagnosed in 1.82% of patients. Preoperative white blood cell count (WBC) in urine and preoperative urine culture results were identified as significant risk factors. Kidney function remained stable at 4 and 16 weeks following FURL. This prospective cohort study demonstrated the high safety of FURL with 365μm fibers of Ho: YAG laser, as infection-related parameters during the perioperative period showed no significant differences, and kidney function remained stable throughout the 16-week follow-up.

Secondary analysis of potential associations between oral health and infection-related parameters in patients with severe heart failure—results of a German cohort

ObjectivesAim of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate whether oral health parameters would be associated with infection-related parameters and overall survival of patients with severe heart failure (HF).MethodsPatients with severe HF, heart transplantation (HTx) and left-ventricular assist device (LVAD), which underwent a full oral examination between 2017 and 2018 were included. Infection-related and survival data were assessed from the patient´s medical records. The oral examination included: remaining teeth, caries and periodontal condition, including periodontal probing depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), and diagnosis (staging/grading). In addition, the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) was determined. Statistical analysis included Chi-square, Fisher´s exact and Mann-Whitney-U test, as well as a logistic regression, considering age, gender, body-mass-index (BMI), diabetes and several oral health parameters with regard to overall survival and infections at heart/driveline.Results329 patients (HTx: 34%, LVAD: 38.9%, HF: 27.1%), were included. Patients had on average 18.96 ± 8.90 remaining teeth, whereby the majority had a periodontitis stage III or IV (88.7%) and a grade B (80.5%). Higher BOP was associated with infections at heart/driveline (p = 0.04) and outside the heart (p < 0.01) during follow-up. Increased PISA was significantly associated with bacterial infections outside the heart (p < 0.01) and sepsis (p = 0.02). Only BMI of 25 or higher correlated with an increased risk of infections at heart/driveline in regression analysis (OR 3.063, CI95 1.158–8.101, p = 0.02), while no associations between oral health parameters and infections at heart/driveline or overall survival were confirmed.ConclusionsIn patients with severe HF, periodontal inflammation might be associated with infection-related parameters. Improved dental care, especially including periodontal therapy and maintenance might be favourable to support prevention of infections in patients with severe HF.

SARS-CoV-2 and Parkinson's Disease: A Review of Where We Are Now.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has been discussed in the context of Parkinson's disease (PD) over the last three years. Now that we are entering the long-term phase of this pandemic, we are intrigued to look back and see how and why the community of patients with PD was impacted and what knowledge we have collected so far. The relationship between COVID-19 and PD is likely multifactorial in nature. Similar to other systemic infections, a probable worsening of PD symptoms secondary to COVID-19, either transient or persistent (long COVID), has been demonstrated, while the COVID-19-related mortality of PD patients may be increased compared to the general population. These observations could be attributed to direct or indirect damage from SARS-CoV-2 in the central nervous system (CNS) or could result from general infection-related parameters (e.g., hospitalization or drugs) and the sequelae of the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., quarantine). A growing number of cases of new-onset parkinsonism or PD following SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported, either closely (post-infectious) or remotely (para-infectious) after a COVID-19 diagnosis, although such a link remains hypothetical. The pathophysiological substrate of these phenomena remains elusive; however, research studies, particularly pathology studies, have suggested various COVID-19-induced degenerative changes with potential associations with PD/parkinsonism. We review the literature to date for answers considering the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and PD/parkinsonism, examining pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, vaccination, and future directions.

The same outcome of cancer patients treated with radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy regardless COVID-19 status.

e18866 Background: COVID-19 has spread all over the world and infects people including cancer patients. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of COVID-19 infection on various cancer patients in China. Methods: A total of 167 cancer patients receiving radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy from July 2022 to February 2023 were included in this study. Tumor types included lung, breast, esophageal, nasopharyngeal, cervical, pancreatic, thymus, rectal, bladder, testicular cancers, and glioblastoma, etc. The patients were divided into three groups: no COVID-19 infection during the therapy cycle (group A, n = 52), therapy beginning at least 10 days after the first positive COVID-19 tests (group B, n = 43), and therapy beginning less than 10 days after the first positive COVID-19 tests (group C, n = 72). The COVID-19 variants in this study were BA5.5.6, BA.5.2, and BF.7. Results: Some infection-related parameters were increased in COVID-19 positive cancer patients, such as SAA (group A vs group B, p= 0.0006; group A vs group C, p= 0.0004), hsCRP (group A vs group B, p= 0.0043; group A vs group C, p= 0.0144), ferritin (group A vs group B, p= 0.0417; group A vs group C, p= 0.0319) and PA (group A vs group C, p= 0.011), yet IL-6 and PCT were of no difference among three groups. Similarly, the serum markers for the myocardial and hepatic lesions, such as LDH (group A vs group B, p= 0.0064; group A vs group C, p= 0.0369), HBDH (group A vs group B, p= 0.0116; group A vs group C, p= 0.0414), and CHE (group A vs group B, p= 0.0303; group A vs group C, p= 0.0256), were raised in both group B and group C, but AST, CK, CK-MB, ADA, GGT, cTnT, and proBNP showed no difference between COVID-19 positive and negative cancer patients. The cancer patients receiving radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy showed no differences in the lowest WBC, Hgb, platelets, NLR (Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio), and lymphocyte subtype counts among three groups. Nevertheless, the leukopenia was apparent in group C (group A vs group C, p= 0.0031; group B vs group C, p= 0.0194), and no obvious difference between group A and group B. Finally, the dropout rates in three groups were nearly the same (group A, 4/52; group B, 6/43; group C, 6/72), and the causes of treatment interruption varied, including pneumonia, deep venous thrombosis, mucosal damage, headache, diarrhea, agranulocytosis, esophageal fistula, etc. Moreover, the completion rate of treatment was not affected by the radiation dose or antitumor drugs in COVID-19 infected cancer patients. Conclusions: This study found that COVID-19 infection did not change the completion rate of radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in cancer patients, although some hematological and serum parameters altered during the treatment and infection. In contrast to NCCN guidelines, cancer patients positive for COVID-19 could be treated safely by radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy.

Oral and post-transplantation infectious status in patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplants: A prospective observational study

Infectious status may be life threatening in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral status on infectious conditions during the neutropenic phase after HSCT. Seventy patients with various hematologic malignancies were involved. Before HSCT, oral and periodontal examination, including the number of teeth and decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (DMFT); visible plaque (%); bleeding on probing (BOP [%]); clinical attachment level; and probing depth (PD) values were collected. Daily blood cultures were collected and analyzed in terms of infection-related parameters, including febrile neutropenia (FN), bacteremia, and C-reactive protein (CRP) during the neutropenic phase of HSCT. Forty-two patients (60%) received autologous and 28 (40%) allogeneic HSCT. In both groups, patients without FN after HSCT had significantly lower DMFT index scores and fewer sites with PD ≥4 mm (P < .05). However, bacteremia, FN, and CRP were similar in patients with periodontitis compared with non-periodontitis patients (P > .05). The results suggest that periodontal status may not significantly impact the infection-related parameters in patients treated for HSCT. However, DMFT and the prevalence of sites with PD ≥4 mm may be involved in febrile neutropenia.

DETERMINISTIC AND STOCHASTIC DENGUE EPIDEMIC MODEL: EXPLORING THE PROBABILITY OF EXTINCTION

Dengue, a vector-borne disease, threatens the life of humans in tropical and subtropical regions. Hence, the dengue transmission dynamics need to be studied. An important aspect to be investigated is the probability of extinction. In this paper, deterministic and stochastic dengue epidemic models with two-age classes have been developed and analyzed, and the probability of extinction has been determined. For the stochastic approach, we use the Continuous-Time Markov Chain model. The results show that vaccination of adult individuals leads to a lower number of adult infected individuals. Furthermore, the results showed that a higher number of initial infections causes a low probability of dengue extinction. Furthermore, factors contributing to an increase in the infection-related parameters have to be minimized to increase the potential reduction of dengue cases.

Spatial modeling, risk mapping, change detection, and outbreak trend analysis of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Iran (days between February 19 and June 14, 2020)

ObjectivesCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) represents a major pandemic threat that has spread to more than 212 countries with more than 432,902 recorded deaths and 7,898,442 confirmed cases worldwide so far (on June 14, 2020). It is crucial to investigate the spatial drivers to prevent and control the epidemic of COVID-19. MethodsThis is the first comprehensive study of COVID-19 in Iran; and it carries out spatial modeling, risk mapping, change detection, and outbreak trend analysis of the disease spread. Four main steps were taken: comparison of Iranian coronavirus data with the global trends, prediction of mortality trends using regression modeling, spatial modeling, risk mapping, and change detection using the random forest (RF) machine learning technique (MLT), and validation of the modeled risk map. ResultsThe results show that from February 19 to June 14, 2020, the average growth rates (GR) of COVID-19 deaths and the total number of COVID-19 cases in Iran were 1.08 and 1.10, respectively. Based on the World Health Organisation (WHO) data, Iran’s fatality rate (deaths/0.1M pop) is 10.53. Other countries’ fatality rates were, for comparison, Belgium – 83.32, UK – 61.39, Spain – 58.04, Italy – 56.73, Sweden – 48.28, France – 45.04, USA – 35.52, Canada – 21.49, Brazil – 20.10, Peru – 19.70, Chile – 16.20, Mexico– 12.80, and Germany – 10.58. The fatality rate for China is 0.32 (deaths/0.1M pop). Over time, the heatmap of the infected areas identified two critical time intervals for the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran. The provinces were classified in terms of disease and death rates into a large primary group and three provinces that had critical outbreaks were separate from the others. The heatmap of countries of the world shows that China and Italy were distinguished from other countries in terms of nine viral infection-related parameters. The regression models for death cases showed an increasing trend but with some evidence of turning. A polynomial relationship was identified between the coronavirus infection rate and the province population density. Also, a third-degree polynomial regression model for deaths showed an increasing trend recently, indicating that subsequent measures taken to cope with the outbreak have been insufficient and ineffective. The general trend of deaths in Iran is similar to the world's, but Iran’s shows lower volatility. Change detection of COVID-19 risk maps with a random forest model for the period from March 11 to March 18 showed an increasing trend of COVID-19 in Iran’s provinces. It is worth noting that using the LASSO MLT to evaluate variables’ importance, indicated that the most important variables were the distance from bus stations, bakeries, hospitals, mosques, ATMs (automated teller machines), banks, and the minimum temperature of the coldest month. ConclusionsWe believe that this study's risk maps are the primary, fundamental step to take for managing and controlling COVID-19 in Iran and its provinces.

P53 and p53-related mediators PAI-1 and IGFBP-3 are downregulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of HIV-patients exposed to non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors

The improved effectiveness and safety of the combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) has largely diminished mortality and AIDS-defining morbidity of HIV-patients. Nevertheless, chronic age-related diseases in these individuals are more common and their underlying pathogenic mechanisms of these actions seem to involve accelerated aging and enhanced inflammation. The present study explores markers of these processes in a heterogenous Spanish HIV cohort using peripheral blood samples of HIV-patients and matched uninfected controls. We isolated periheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and i) compared the expression of a panel of 14 genes related to inflammation and senescence in PBMCs of HIV-patients vs matched uninfected controls, ii) analyzed the expression in HIV-patients in association with a number of demographic, biochemical and immunological parameters and iii) in relation with the current cART they received. PBMCs of HIV-patients displayed significantly increased expression of general inflammatory genes (IL6, IL18 and CXCL10) and this occurs irrespectively of the antiviral therapy they have been receiving. Conversely, levels of senescence-associated genes TP53, SERPINE1andIGFBP3 were slightly but significantly reduced in patients compared to uninfected matched individuals and this effect is related to NNRTI-containing treatments. The expression of the inflammatory markers IL6, IL18, IL1B, TNFA, RELA, CCL2, CCL20 and CXCL10 displayed correlation with certain demographic, morbidity- and HIV infection-related parameters. The levels of TP53 mRNA were positively associated only with plasma LDL. Correlation analysis between the expressions of pairs of genes revealed a different pattern between HIV-patients and controls. The diminished expression of TP53 and SERPINE1 in HIV-patients was also observed at a protein level, and the correlation between the two proteins (p53 and PAI1) in patients and controls showed the opposite trend. In conclusion, HIV-patients show dysregulation of p53 and p53-related mediators, a phenomenon which may be of pathophysiological relevance and could be related to the shorter health- and/or life-span observed in these individuals.

Clinical Importance of Lymphocytopenia in Pediatric Head and Neck Lymphatic Malformations

Introduction: Small case series have suggested that lymphocytopenia may be associated with a more aggressive lymphatic malformation (LM) disease course; however, the clinical importance of lymphocytopenia in the setting of LM still remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine if LM-associated lymphocytopenia was associated with higher rates of antibiotic use and more frequent hospitalizations for infections. Methods: An IRB-approved, retrospective case series review was performed on all patients with the ICD-10 codes corresponding to LM between 2008 and 2018 at a single institution. Patients with a complete blood cell count and lymphocyte differential were included. Lymphocytopenia was defined as &lt;1500/cm3. Variables including LM location, lymphocyte count, frequency and duration of antibiotic utilization, and number of infection-related hospitalizations were recorded. Data was analyzed with Mann-Whitney U and Fisher’s Exact tests. Results: From a total of 131 patients with a diagnosis of head and neck lymphatic malformation, there were 45 pediatric patients with documented laboratory values included in the cohort. Lymphocytopenia was present in 24 (53%) patients. There were no differences in the number of patients requiring hospitalization for infection (8 vs 7, p=1.000), mean length of hospital stay (0.38 vs 0.48, p=0.891), or mean duration of antibiotic course (14 vs 15 days, p=0.833) between those with and without lymphocytopenia, respectively. Similarly, the subset of 5 patients on sirolimus treatment had no increased infection-related parameters when compared to the remainder of the cohort. Discussion: Lymphocytopenia was not associated with higher rates of infection requiring hospitalization or increased duration of antibiotic course in head and neck LM.&nbsp; Furthermore, patients receiving sirolimus did not incur higher rates of infection. Larger prospective studies are needed to follow disease course in patients with and without LM-associated lymphocytopenia.

Prognosis of cirrhotic patients admitted to intensive care unit: a meta-analysis

BackgroundThe best predictors of short- and medium-term mortality of cirrhotic patients receiving intensive care support are unknown.MethodsWe conducted meta-analyses from 13 studies (2523 cirrhotics) after selection of original articles and response to a standardized questionnaire by the corresponding authors. End-points were in-ICU, in-hospital, and 6-month mortality in ICU survivors. A total of 301 pooled analyses, including 95 analyses restricted to 6-month mortality among ICU survivors, were conducted considering 249 variables (including reason for admission, organ replacement therapy, and composite prognostic scores).ResultsIn-ICU, in-hospital, and 6-month mortality was 42.7, 54.1, and 75.1%, respectively. Forty-eight patients (3.8%) underwent liver transplantation during follow-up. In-ICU mortality was lower in patients admitted for variceal bleeding (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.36–0.59; p < 0.001) and higher in patients with SOFA > 19 at baseline (OR 8.54; 95% CI 2.09–34.91; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.93). High SOFA no longer predicted mortality at 6 months in ICU survivors. Twelve variables related to infection were predictors of in-ICU mortality, including SIRS (OR 2.44; 95% CI 1.64–3.65; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.57), pneumonia (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.47–3.22; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.69), sepsis-associated refractory oliguria (OR 10.61; 95% CI 4.07–27.63; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.76), and fungal infection (OR 4.38; 95% CI 1.11–17.24; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.85). Among therapeutics, only dopamine (OR 5.57; 95% CI 3.02–10.27; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.68), dobutamine (OR 8.92; 95% CI 3.32–23.96; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.86), epinephrine (OR 5.03; 95% CI 2.68–9.42; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.77), and MARS (OR 2.07; 95% CI 1.22–3.53; p = 0.007; PPV = 0.58) were associated with in-ICU mortality without heterogeneity. In ICU survivors, eight markers of liver and renal failure predicted 6-month mortality, including Child–Pugh stage C (OR 2.43; 95% CI 1.44–4.10; p < 0.001; PPV = 0.57), baseline MELD > 26 (OR 3.97; 95% CI 1.92–8.22; p < 0.0001; PPV = 0.75), and hepatorenal syndrome (OR 4.67; 95% CI 1.24–17.64; p = 0.022; PPV = 0.88).ConclusionsPrognosis of cirrhotic patients admitted to ICU is poor since only a minority undergo liver transplant. The prognostic performance of general ICU scores decreases over time, unlike the Child–Pugh and MELD scores, even recorded in the context of organ failure. Infection-related parameters had a short-term impact, whereas liver and renal failure had a sustained impact on mortality.

Metabolic syndrome in HIV-infected middle-aged women on antiretroviral therapy: prevalence and associated factors

ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated factors in a group of HIV-infected middle-aged women. MethodsCross-sectional study including 273 HIV-infected climacteric women of 40–60 years of age under care in two HIV outpatient reference centers in Brazil. Metabolic syndrome diagnosis was based on 2006 International Diabetes Federation criteria. Sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral factors were evaluated as well as HIV infection-related parameters. ResultsMean age was 47.7 years; 59.1% of women were premenopausal, 91% were on antiretroviral therapy. Current CD4 count was >500cells/mm3 in 61.7%, current viral load undetectable in 76.9% of women, and a quarter had previous diagnosis of aids. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the subgroup of menopausal women was 46.9%. Univariate analysis showed an association between metabolic syndrome and age ≥50 years (p=0.002), schooling <8 years (p=0.003), post-menopause (p<0.001), body mass index (BMI) >25kg/m2 (p<0.001), and FSH ≥40mIU/mL (p=0.002). In the multivariate analysis only increased BMI (PR=1.09; 95% CI: 1.05–1.13; p<0.001) and FSH levels ≥40mIU/mL (PR=1.66; 95% CI: 1.14–2.40; p=0.008) maintained statistical significance. There was no association between PI use or any other factor related to HIV-infection and MetS in any of the analyses performed. ConclusionHigh BMI and FSH levels compatible with menopause were the only factors associated with MetS in these middle aged HIV-infected women. In the context of well-controlled, early treated HIV infection, traditional rather than HIV-related factors were associated with MetS.

Procalcitonin levels to predict bacterial infection in Surgical Intensive Care Unit patients

Background: Infection-induced inflammatory response might be aggravated by surgery insults. The clinical presentation of Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) patients might be different from medical critically ill patients. Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic values of procalcitonin (PCT) to predict bacterial infection in SICU patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the 2-year (2013 and 2014) records of 342 adult SICU cases with suspected bacterial infection in SICU of Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital. The past histories, the first infection-related parameters when SICU admission, culture results, infection-related laboratory examinations, and outcomes were collected. Results: Median of PCT level in patients with negative and any positive culture was 0.84 (interquartile range [IQR] 0.18–6.21) and 2.27 (IQR 0.54–9.93) ng/ml, respectively. Infection from blood, urine, and skin/soft tissue elicited significantly higher PCT levels. PCT in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated the most accurate to predict bacterial infection (area under the ROC curve [AUC]: 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54–0.63) and bacteremia (AUC: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.66–0.80) compared to white blood cell count, ratio of neutrophils, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte count ratio (NLCR). Significantly higher PCT levels (4.12 ng/ml, 1.12–19.99; median, IQR) were observed in mortality cases. Higher PCT levels were significantly accompanied with higher NLCR, as well as higher incidence of leukopenia and bandemia. Using Kaplan–Meier analysis, significantly higher intrahospital mortality was observed in cases with above the cutoff PCT levels of 0.5 and 2 ng/ml cases, respectively. Conclusion: PCT is a relatively more useful tool to predict bacterial and particularly bloodstream infection compared to other infection-related parameters in routinely clinical practice. Initial PCT levels may be a prognostic factor of SICU patients with bacterial infection.

A randomized, double-blind, controlled study to evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of novel filmogen osmotic treatment for pharyngitis

Background: Pharyngitis is caused principally by primary viral infection: virus growth causes lysis of throat mucosa cells, leading to inflammation, secondary bacterial infection, accumulation of contaminants on the throat, and clinical signs of sore throat infection. Currently available drugs only provide partial therapeutic action or relief. Since pharyngitis is a multifactorial condition, a multi target treatment should be more effective. We tested a novel hypertonic, highly osmotic, filmogen liquid bandage which can mechanically clean the throat surface to quickly alleviate the symptoms while also eliminating their causing pathogens. A clinical trial was conducted to evaluate its efficacy and safety. Methods and findings: A 14-day, randomized, placebo controlled, double blind, efficacy and safety study was conducted in 36 treated with Test Product (TP) v/s 18 treated with Comparator Product (CP, containing saline solution) patients suffering from sore throat infection. Products were applied as spray, every 20 to 30 min. during the first 2-3 hours then 3-4 times daily, for a maximum 14 days, and primary and secondary sore throat infection-related parameters were evaluated on days 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 14. Saline solution showed some beneficial effects on sore throat, but the TP proved significantly more effective, producing not only very rapid but also durable effects on all clinical signs of pharyngitis. The statistically significant effectiveness and rapidity of results obtained with the test product, led to faster recovery and reduced need for antibiotics compared to the CP group. No treatmentrelated undesirable or adverse effect was observed. Conclusions: This novel hypertonic, highly osmotic, filmogen liquid bandage is a safe and effective treatment for pharyngitis.

Avian malaria: a new lease of life for an old experimental model to study the evolutionary ecology of Plasmodium.

Avian malaria has historically played an important role as a model in the study of human malaria, being a stimulus for the development of medical parasitology. Avian malaria has recently come back to the research scene as a unique animal model to understand the ecology and evolution of the disease, both in the field and in the laboratory. Avian malaria is highly prevalent in birds and mosquitoes around the world and is amenable to laboratory experimentation at each stage of the parasite's life cycle. Here, we take stock of 5 years of experimental laboratory research carried out using Plasmodium relictum SGS1, the most prevalent avian malaria lineage in Europe, and its natural vector, the mosquito Culex pipiens. For this purpose, we compile and analyse data obtained in our laboratory in 14 different experiments. We provide statistical relationships between different infection-related parameters, including parasitaemia, gametocytaemia, host morbidity (anaemia) and transmission rates to mosquitoes. This analysis provides a wide-ranging picture of the within-host and between-host parameters that may bear on malaria transmission and epidemiology.

Spectrum and Short-term Outcome of Renal Impairment in Cirrhosis

Renal failure is the most powerful predictor of death in decompensated cirrhosis. We conducted this prospective, observational, cohort study to determine spectrum of acute kidney injury (AKI) as per (IAC /ADQI , International ascites club/Acute Dialysis Quality initiative) definition in cirrhotics at admission or in hospital stay and study its outcome. Cirrhotic patients diagnosed with AKI, as per (IAC/ADQI) definition, were enrolled and evaluated for the cause and type of AKI as per study definitions, investigated and treated as per study protocol. They were followed up to see reversibility of AKI and its effect on patients in hospital, 1 & 3 month outcome. 395 consecutive cirrhotics with renal impairment enrolled. In hospital mortality 154 (39%). 226 (57.2%) survived at 1 month and 173 (43.8%) at 3 months. Median CTP 10 (5 – 14) and median MELD 25 (6 – 57). RRT (renal replacement therapy) required in 120 (30.4%). Infections were most common in precipitants with SBP, 84 (21.4%) the most common focus. VRAKI (volume responsive AKI) was commonest,198 (50.1%). Among VNRAKI (volume non responsive AKI), HRS (hepatorenal syndrome) seen in 85 (21.5%), ATN (Acute Tubular Necrosis in 55 (13.9%) and 9 (2.3%) had AGN (acute glomerulonephritis). Associated CKD (chronic kidney disease) seen in 48 (12.2%). VRAKI had best outcome followed by AGN and associated CKD. ATN/HRS had poor outcomes. Outcome was significantly poor in ACLF (acute on chronic liver failure), terlipressin non responders and recurrent AKI. On multivariate analysis MELD score, serum albumin, presence of SBP and hypotension with inotropes requirement were significantly associated with HRS/ATN development. Presence of HE, low albumin and ATN/HRS were significantly associated with death. AKI in cirrhotics was associated with significantly high in-hospital mortality, higher need for renal replacement therapy, as well as progressively reduced 1 month and 3 month survival. VRAKI was the most common with best outcome followed by HRS and ATN. Associated CKD had better 1,3 month survival than HRS/ATN. Presence of HRS/ATN, ACLF, recurrence of AKI in the same hospitalization were associated with poor 1 month and 3 month survival. MELD score, SBP, presence of hypotension with inotrope requirement were significant predictors of HRS/ATN development and presence of HRS/ATN, HE, low serum albumin were significant predictors of death. The survival in HRS/ATN did not correlate with infection related parameters whereas that in VRAKI did.

Correlation of Serum Immunoglobulins with Infection-Related Parameters During Induction Chemotherapy of Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Prospective Study

Background: Immune dysfunction may be a contributing factor for infections during induction chemotherapy of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML); but this has not been evaluated as yet. Procedure: From April 2010 to May 2011, 45 consecutive de novo pediatric AML patients were prospectively evaluated along with nine healthy controls. Immunoglobulins (Ig) (n = 45) were measured at diagnosis and day 15. Results: There were 25 male and 20 female patients with a median age of 9 years (range 1–18 years). Baseline Ig did not correlate with any of the infection-related parameters during induction. At day 15, Ig levels reduced from baseline (IgG p = 0.46, IgA p = 0.027, IgM p < 0.001). Day 15 IgG levels were lower in patients with persistent fever >7 days (p = 0.029) and fungal infection (p = 0.035). Conclusion: This is the first study which has evaluated derangement in Ig with infection-related parameters in pediatric AML. At day 15, immunoglobulins decrease and reduced IgG levels correlate with infection-related parameters. Use of intravenous immunoglobulins in pediatric AML cases needs to be further evaluated to assess whether it can reduce infection-related morbidity.

Epstein–Barr Virus Infection in Adult Renal Transplant Recipients

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNAemia in the first year posttransplantation has been studied extensively. There is a paucity of information on prevalence and sequelae of EBV infection in adult renal transplantation beyond the first year. This single-center study examines the relationship between EBV DNAemia and demographic, immunosuppressive, hematologic and infection-related parameters in 499 renal transplant recipients between 1 month and 33 years posttransplant. Participants were tested repeatedly for EBV DNAemia detection over 12 months and clinical progress followed for 3 years. Prevalence of DNAemia at recruitment increased significantly with time from transplant. In multivariate adjusted analyses, variables associated with DNAemia included EBV seronegative status at transplant (p = 0.045), non-White ethnicity (p = 0.014) and previous posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) diagnosis (p = 0.006), while low DNAemia rates were associated with mycophenolate mofetil use (p < 0.0001) and EBV viral capsid antigen positive Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen-1 positive serostatus at transplant (p = 0.044). Patient and graft survival, rate of kidney function decline and patient reported symptoms were not significantly different between EBV DNAemia positive and negative groups. EBV DNAemia is common posttransplant and increases with time from transplantation, but EBV DNAemia detection in low-risk (seropositive) patients has poor specificity as a biomarker for future PTLD risk.

Impact of Vaccination on 14 High-Risk HPV Type Infections: A Mathematical Modelling Approach

The development of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infection to cervical cancer is a complicated process. We considered solely hrHPV infections, thus avoiding the confounding effects of disease progression, screening, and treatments. To analyse hrHPV epidemiology and to estimate the overall impact of vaccination against infections with hrHPVs, we developed a dynamic compartmental transmission model for single and multiple infections with 14 hrHPV types. The infection-related parameters were estimated using population-based sexual behaviour and hrHPV prevalence data from Finland. The analysis disclosed the important role of persistent infections in hrHPV epidemiology, provided further evidence for a significant natural immunity, and demonstrated the dependence of transmission probability estimates on the model structure. The model predicted that vaccinating girls at 80% coverage will result in a 55% reduction in the overall hrHPV prevalence and a higher 65% reduction in the prevalence of persistent hrHPV infections in females. In males, the reduction will be 42% in the hrHPV prevalence solely by the herd effect from the 80% coverage in girls. If such high coverage among girls is not reached, it is still possible to reduce the female hrHPV prevalence indirectly by the herd effect if also boys are included in the vaccination program. On the other hand, any herd effects in older unvaccinated cohorts were minor. Limiting the epidemiological model to infection yielded improved understanding of the hrHPV epidemiology and of mechanisms with which vaccination impacts on hrHPV infections.

The Novel Adipokine C1q/TNF-related Protein-3 is Expressed in Human Adipocytes and Regulated by Metabolic and Infection-related Parameters

The growing family of C1Q/TNF-related proteins is characterized by structural homologies to the anti-inflammatory adipokine adiponectin. CTRP-3 was recently reported to function as an anti-inflammatory LPS-antagonist in vitro. Human subcutaneous and visceral adipocytes and murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes were used for analysis of CTRP-3 expression and function. Western blot analysis of CTRP-3, siRNA mediated knockdown of CTRP-3, Oil red O staining, assessment of basal and epinephrine-induced lipolysis, ELISA-based measurements of supernatant chemokines, recombinant CTRP-3 protein expression, and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection assays were used. CTRP-3 is expressed in subcutaneous and visceral adipocytes. CTRP-3 is positively regulated by insulin, whereas chronic LPS-exposure inhibits terminal adipocyte differentiation and CTRP-3 expression. Intracellular infection of adipocytes by S. aureus also decreases CTRP-3 expression. As demonstrated by siRNA-mediated cellular knockdown of CTRP-3 in adipocytes, CTRP-3 regulates resistin secretion and lipolysis. CTRP-3 is expressed in human adipocytes and plays an important role in adipocyte physiology such as lipolysis and adipokine secretion. Both, metabolic factors and infection/inflammation-related factors regulate CTRP-3 expression.

Small-Vessel Vascular Disease in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: The Hawaii Aging with HIV Cohort Study

Background: This study is designed to determine the relationship between age and occurrence of cerebral manifestations of small-vessel ischemic vascular disease in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-seropositive individuals. Methods: Periventricular leukoaraiosis severity and white matter lesion volume were determined by magnetic resonance imaging of the brain of 57 HIV-seropositive individuals. Results: Cerebral small-vessel ischemic vascular disease manifestations correlated with age and systolic blood pressure, but not with HIV infection-related parameters. Conclusions: These findings suggest that, in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy, leukoaraiosis severity and white matter lesion volume may be more indicative of small-vessel ischemic vascular disease than HIV-related CNS pathology, and support the need for aggressive treatment of vascular risk factors in HIV-seropositive individuals.