Anthrax is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.It poses significant threat to humans through contact with infected animals or their by-products.Concerns arise from its long-lasting spore viabilit...Anthrax is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.It poses significant threat to humans through contact with infected animals or their by-products.Concerns arise from its long-lasting spore viability and lethality,fuelling its biowarfare potential.Recent anthrax outbreaks across multiple African nations prompted this bibliometric study.The aim of the study was to assess the contributions of African countries,institutions,authors,research funding,and collaborations,while identifying research trends and gaps.We conducted an extensive bibliometric analysis of anthrax-related research publications in Africa from 1923 to 2023,utilizing the Scopus database and VOSviewer.The study covered 364 publications from 32 African countries,accumulating 5,636 citations at an average of 15.5 citations per article,with research articles comprising 88.5%of the corpus.The publication growth rate from 1923 to 2023 was modest at 8.3%,indicating gradual advancement.Notably,there was a significant surge in publications between 2011 and 2023,accounting for 73.1%of total publications.The African research contributions,were categorized into five thematic focuses:ecological dynamics and host interactions,human-livestock anthrax interface,molecular insights into bacterial activity and treatment strategies,collaborative approaches for zoonotic disease prevention,and antibody response and vaccination strategies.Leading institutional contributors included the University of Pretoria and the University of KwaZulu-Natal.Collaborations extended globally to 35 non-African countries,with significant involvement from the United States,United Kingdom,and Germany.Strong African partnerships,especially between Kenya,Nigeria,and South Africa,emerged.The top 10 cited papers explored diverse aspects,including disease impact on wildlife and innovative control strategies,underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary approaches.South Africa played a prominent role,contributing 95 publications and securing funding from various sources,including the National Research Foundation.Collaborations with global institutions highlighted its commitment.This study unveils the dynamic landscape of anthrax research in Africa,emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration,multidisciplinary One Health approaches,and global partnerships in enhancing research outcomes.Ongoing research and practical solutions for human and animal health remain imperative.展开更多
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.It is potentially fatal and highly contagious disease.Herbivores arc the natural host.Human acquire the disease incidentally by contact with infected animal o...Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.It is potentially fatal and highly contagious disease.Herbivores arc the natural host.Human acquire the disease incidentally by contact with infected animal or animal products.In the 18th century an epidemic destroyed approximately half of the sheep in Europe.In 1900 human inhalational anthrax occured sporadically in the United Stales.In 1979 an outbreak of human anthrax occured in Sverdlovsk of Soviet Union.Anthrax continued to represent a world wide presence.The incidence of the disease has decreased in developed countries as a result of vaccination and improved industrial hygiene.Human anthrax clinically presents in three forms,i.e.cutaneous,gastrointestinal and inhalational.About 95%of human anthrax is cutaneous and 5%is inhalational.Gastrointestinal anthrax is very rare(less than 1%).Inhalational form is used as a biological warefare agent. Penicillin,ciprofloxacin(and other quinolones),doxicyclin,ampicillin,imipenem.clindamycin, clarithromycin,vancomycin,chloramphenicol,rifampicin are effective antimicrobials. Antimicrobial therapy for 60 days is recommended.Human anthrax vaccine is available. Administration of anti-protective antigen(PA) antibody in combination with ciprofloxacin produced 90%-100%survival.The combination of CPG-adjuvanted anthrax vaccine adsorbed(AVA) plus dalbavancin significantly improved survival.展开更多
Bioterrorism has received a lot of attention in the first decade of this century. Biological agents are considered attractive weapons for bioterrorism as these are easy to obtain, comparatively inexpensive to produce ...Bioterrorism has received a lot of attention in the first decade of this century. Biological agents are considered attractive weapons for bioterrorism as these are easy to obtain, comparatively inexpensive to produce and exhibit widespread fear and panic than the actual potential of physical damage. Bacillus anthracis(B. anthracis), the etiologic agent of anthrax is a Gram positive, spore forming, non-motile bacterium. This is supposed to be one of the most potent BW agents because its spores are extremely resistant to natural conditions and can survive for several decades in the environment. B.anthracis spores enter the body through skin lesion(cutaneous anthrax), lungs(pulmonary anthrax), or gastrointestinal route(gastrointestinal anthrax) and germinate, giving rise to the vegetative form. Anthrax is a concern of public health also in many countries where agriculture is the main source of income including India. Anthrax has been associated with human history for a very long time and regained its popularity after Sept 2001 incidence in United States. The present review article describes the history, biology, life cycle, pathogenicity, virulence, epidemiology and potential of B. anthracis as biological weapon.展开更多
Anthrax is an infection caused by bacteria and it affects both human and animal populations. The disease can be categorized under zoonotic diseases and humans can contract infections through contact with infected anim...Anthrax is an infection caused by bacteria and it affects both human and animal populations. The disease can be categorized under zoonotic diseases and humans can contract infections through contact with infected animals, ingest contaminated dairy and animal products. In this paper, we developed a mathematical model for anthrax transmission dynamics in both human and animal populations with optimal control. The qualitative solution of the model behaviour was analyzed by determining Rhv, equilibrium points and sensitivity analysis. A vaccination class was incorporated into the model with waning immunity. Local and global stability of the model’s equilibria was found to be locally asymptotically stable whenever Rhv Rhv. It was revealed that reducing animal and human interaction rate, would decrease Rhv. We extended the model to optimal control in order to find the best control strategy in reducing anthrax infections. It showed that the effective strategy in combating the anthrax epidemics is vaccination of animals and prevention of humans.展开更多
Anthrax toxin receptor 1(ANTXR1),also known as tumor endothelial marker 8,is a highly conserved cell surface protein overexpressed in tumor-infiltrating vessels.It was first found in vascular endothelial cells of huma...Anthrax toxin receptor 1(ANTXR1),also known as tumor endothelial marker 8,is a highly conserved cell surface protein overexpressed in tumor-infiltrating vessels.It was first found in vascular endothelial cells of human colorectal cancer.Although our understanding of its physiological function is limited,it has been found that ANTXR1 binds collagen and promotes migration of endothelial cells in vitro.ANTXR1 is upregulated in vessels of different tumor types in mice and humans,and is also expressed by tumor cells themselves in some tumors,such as gastric,lung,intestinal and breast cancer.Developmental angiogenesis and wound healing were not disturbed in ANTXR1 knockout mice,but compared with wild-type mice,growth of melanoma was impaired after ANTXR1 knockout,indicating that host-derived ANTXR1 can promote tumor growth on the basis of immune activity.Previous studies have shown that ANTXR1 vaccines or sublethal doses of anthrax toxin can inhibit angiogenesis,slow tumor growth and prolong survival.These studies suggest that ANTXR1 is necessary for tumor rather than physiological angiogenesis.It has been found that ANTXR1 plays an important role in tumor angiogenesisas well as in the growth and metastasis of many kinds of tumors.This article reviews the physiological function of ANTXR1 and its role in different kinds of cancer.展开更多
AIM: To prove anthrax lethal toxin(Le Tx) blocks the mitogen activated protein kinases(MAPKs) activation by degrading the MAPK/ERK kinases(MEKs) to suppress vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) secretion.METHODS: ...AIM: To prove anthrax lethal toxin(Le Tx) blocks the mitogen activated protein kinases(MAPKs) activation by degrading the MAPK/ERK kinases(MEKs) to suppress vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) secretion.METHODS: Human adult retinal pigmented epithelium(ARPE) cells were cultured and treated with normal glucose, high glucose or high glucose with Le Tx for additional 24, 48 or 72 h for viable cell count. Total RNA from the ARPE was isolated for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR). The conditioned medium of ARPE cells treated in different group for 48 h was filtered and diluted to detect the concentration of VEGF by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays.Evaluate the role of MEK/MAPK pathway in the secretion of VEGF by immunoblotting. RESULTS: In this study, we proved high glucose induced activation of the MAPK extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK1/2) and p38 in the ARPE cell line was blocked by anthrax Le Tx. Le Tx also inhibited high glucose induced ARPE cell over proliferation.CONCLUSION: Le Tx suppressed high glucose induced VEGF over secretion in the ARPE cells, mainly through a post-translational mechanism.展开更多
Objective:To explore the spatial accumulation of diseases andtheir aggravating factors are essential in all public health.This study attempts to use geographic information system(GIS)to provide more information about ...Objective:To explore the spatial accumulation of diseases andtheir aggravating factors are essential in all public health.This study attempts to use geographic information system(GIS)to provide more information about the incidence and future of anthrax.Methods:Patients were diagnosed with anthrax in Kurdistan Province from 2009 to 2016.Data was then exported into ArcGIS software version 9 and the required layers for years and areas were added.Final map for each year was drawn up,pointing out the hot spots and predicting its future pattern.Results:Most cases were reported in females(57 cases,54.80%),and the lower body limbs were most affected(63 cases,60.57%).The highest numbers of incidences were related to the cities of Marivan,Saqez and Divandareh,with more concentration in the central parts of the province,rather than borderline areas.The highest percentage of the probable incidence of the disease was in Sanandaj(57.74%)with a potential susceptible area of 1729.12 km2 and then in Saqez(54.36%)with a potential area of 2422.4 km2.Conclusions:A vast area of Kurdistan Province is high risk for new cases of anthrax.Therefore,it is important to scale up the surveillance system in the province.展开更多
AIM:To establish whether activation of adenosine type-3 receptors(A3Rs)and inhibition of interleukin- 1β-induced inflammation is beneficial in combination with antibiotic therapy to increase survival of mice challeng...AIM:To establish whether activation of adenosine type-3 receptors(A3Rs)and inhibition of interleukin- 1β-induced inflammation is beneficial in combination with antibiotic therapy to increase survival of mice challenged with anthrax spores. METHODS:DBA/2 mice were challenged with Bacillus anthracis spores of the toxigenic Sterne strain 43F2. Survival of animals was monitored for 15 d.Ciprofloxacin treatment(50 mg/kg,once daily,intraperitoneally) was initiated at day+1 simultaneously with the ad- ministration of inhibitors,and continued for 10 d.Two doses(2.5 mg/kg and 12.5 mg/kg)of acetyl-tyrosylvalyl-alanyl-aspartyl-chloromethylketone(YVAD)and three doses(0.05,0.15 and 0.3 mg/kg)of 1-[2-Chloro- 6-[[(3-iodophenyl)methyl]amino]-9H-purin-9-yl]-1- deoxy-N-methyl-β-D-ribofuranuronamide(Cl-IB-MECA) were tested.Animals received YVAD on days 1-4,and Cl-IB-MECA on days 1-10 once daily,subcutaneously. Human lung epithelial cells in culture were challenged with spores or edema toxin and the effects of IB-MECAon phosphorylation of AKT and generation of cAMP were tested. RESULTS:We showed that the outcome of antibiotic treatment in a murine anthrax model could be substantially improved by co-administration of the caspase-1/4 inhibitor YVAD and the A3R agonist Cl-IB-MECA.Combination treatment with these substances and ciprofloxacin resulted in up to 90%synergistic protection.All untreated mice died,and antibiotic alone protected only 30% of animals.We conclude that both substances target the aberrant host signaling that underpins anthrax mortality. CONCLUSION:Our findings suggest new possibilities for combination therapy of anthrax with antibiotics,A3R agonists and caspase-1 inhibitors.展开更多
Rationale:Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by spores of Gram-positive Bacillus anthracis,commonly affects mammals and in rare cases birds.Human infection occurs accidentally through direct or indirect exposure to ...Rationale:Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by spores of Gram-positive Bacillus anthracis,commonly affects mammals and in rare cases birds.Human infection occurs accidentally through direct or indirect exposure to animal or their products.Patient concerns:A 63-year-old man was referred to our hospital with flu-like symptoms and severe swelling and redness on the face,the roof of the mouth,and nostrils.He had a history of direct contact with a slaughtered mutton two days ago.He declared controlled diabetes,hypertension,hypertriglyceridemia,and heart failure.Lungs were normal in lung high resolution CT,but multiple lymphadenopathies were seen in the mediastinum.Bilateral axillary lymphadenopathy with a maximum sad of 23 mm and pleural effusion on the right side was observed.CT scan of the nose and sinuses showed an increased density of polyps in the left maxillary sinus.Slides were prepared from the patient's lesions and examined under a light microscope.Bacillus shape with Streptococcus bacteria was seen.Diagnosis:Anthrax co-infection with herpes systemic virus and Streptococcus pyogenes.Interventions:Multidrug therapy started with appropriate antibiotics.Outcomes:The symptoms of the patient gradually disappeared.The patient was discharged without any complications.Lessons:Cutaneous anthrax in endemic areas in patients with skin presentations and a history of contact with infected animals or products should be considered a differential diagnosis.This is more important in mixed infections where the main cause of the problem may be hidden.展开更多
Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of anthrax, a bacterial infection with a high mortality rate [1-3]. Although anthrax infection can be cutaneous, gastrointestinal or pulmonary, the pulmonary form is the most ...Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of anthrax, a bacterial infection with a high mortality rate [1-3]. Although anthrax infection can be cutaneous, gastrointestinal or pulmonary, the pulmonary form is the most deadly [2,3]. Thus, the release of Bacillus anthracis spores that can be inhaled represents a potent bioterrorism threat;the capacity of B. anthracis spores to act as a bioterrorism weapon was demonstrated in 2001, with the intentional infection of 22 persons in the U.S.A. [2,4]. Until recently, the available vaccines were developed to confer protection against cutaneous infection;despite this, these vaccines demonstrated experimental efficacy against pulmonary infection in multiple animal models [1,2]. Nevertheless, there are many limitations for these vaccines to be considered successful and effective vaccine, including the intensity of the required vaccination schedule, the administration route and the presence of local adverse effects experienced after vaccination [1,3,5,6]. To develop more efficient vaccines against pulmonary anthrax, intranasal formulations with adjuvant have been studied. These formulations have advantages because they are easy to administer and because they are expected to induce both systemic and respiratory tract mucosal immune responses. Therefore, the main goal of this review is to compare the different experimental adjuvants used with anthrax antigens and the different approaches regarding the vaccination schedule and consecutive boosters.展开更多
In Italy, in an area of about 50 km2 between Basilicata and Campania Southern regions, 28 outbreaks of anthrax occurred from August 28th to September 27th 2011. Different species were affected: laboratory tests confir...In Italy, in an area of about 50 km2 between Basilicata and Campania Southern regions, 28 outbreaks of anthrax occurred from August 28th to September 27th 2011. Different species were affected: laboratory tests confirmed anthrax in cattle, horses and sheep. The genetic analysis of strains isolated from infected animals indicated that outbreaks occurring in the two regions were not correlated. Intriguingly, the incidence was highly significant in horses compared to that of cattle and sheep or goats, which were prevalent species in the animal population. In addition, allinfected horses and many cattle developed a fatal, sub-acute form of anthrax, characterized by the presence of massive edema, usually absent in hyperacute forms. The characteristics of these outbreaks suggested a possible role of tabanids as vectors in the transmission of B. anthracis like-epidemic infection.展开更多
Anthrax is an important zoonotic disease in Kenya causing high morbidity and mortality in both human and livestock.It is endemic in the country.The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge,attitude and prac...Anthrax is an important zoonotic disease in Kenya causing high morbidity and mortality in both human and livestock.It is endemic in the country.The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge,attitude and practices(KAPS)of anthrax among pastoralists in Wajir,Isiolo and Marsabit.The study was cross-sectional whereby various areas of anthrax outbreaks were identified through the veterinary departments in the three study counties of Wajir,Isiolo and Marsabit.These areas were visited and using systematic sampling methods,a total of 400 households were visited.Data were collected through questionnaires administered via personal interviews.Information collected included demographic characteristics of the households,knowledge on anthrax,attitude and practices on the disease.Pastoralists had adequate knowledge on anthrax.They correctly pointed out the clinical signs of anthrax in livestock such as sudden death,bleeding from body orifices and cutanous sores.The indigenous knowledge was uniform in all the three counties.Despite that knowledge,they reportedly engaged in dangerous practices that would expose them to infection by anthrax.These practices included consumption of meat from suspect anthrax cases,opening of carcasses of dead animals and throwing of anthrax suspect carcasses in bushes.Anthrax is a well known disease in this pastoral setting.There is a need for education programmes to be designed for this community especially with regard to proper handling of suspect anthrax cases.Continuous anthrax efforts should be initiated through vaccination of livestock.展开更多
The genus Anthrax Scopoli, 1763 is newly recorded from Vietnam. Previously, there were just two genera, Systropus and Heteralonia, in Bombyliidae recorded from Vietnam. Genus Anthrax with 248 known species, has a worl...The genus Anthrax Scopoli, 1763 is newly recorded from Vietnam. Previously, there were just two genera, Systropus and Heteralonia, in Bombyliidae recorded from Vietnam. Genus Anthrax with 248 known species, has a worldwide distribution, of which 25 species are from the Oriental Region. One species A. dentata Becker, 1906 from Vietnam is redescribed. A key to the genera of Bombyliidae from Vietnam is presented.展开更多
Anthrax which is caused by Bacillus anthracis is typically a disease of herbivores. Spores existing in the skin, meat, hair or mouth and nose of animals are transmitted to humans through contact with a break in the sk...Anthrax which is caused by Bacillus anthracis is typically a disease of herbivores. Spores existing in the skin, meat, hair or mouth and nose of animals are transmitted to humans through contact with a break in the skin, consumption of infected meat or inhalation of spores [1]. Infected uncooked or insufficiently cooked meats cause oropharyngeal and gastrointestinal system (GIS) anthrax. When this infected materials swallowed anthrax spores may cause lesions from the oral cavity to the caecum. The diagnosis of gastrointestinal system (GIS) anthrax is difficult due to insidious clinical progression of the disease and difficulty in the isolation of agent pathogen. Releated symptoms of GIS anthrax are sore throat, neck swelling, diffuculty swallowing, stomach pain, anoreksia, bloody diarrhea, nause, bloody vomiting and fever. Supportive and antibiotic treatments are required. Benzylpenicillin, rifampicin, clindamycin, chloramphenicol, imipenem/cilastatin, or vancomycin can be use for treatment, ciprofloxacin or doxycycline may be added to this treat- ment for serious cases. To emphasize the necessity of taking precautions, an oropharyngeal and intestinal anthrax case due to consumption of infected and insufficiently cooked meat is presented below.展开更多
Background Anthrax,a zoonotic disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis,remains a major global public health concern,especially in countries with limited resources.Sierra Leone,a West African co...Background Anthrax,a zoonotic disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis,remains a major global public health concern,especially in countries with limited resources.Sierra Leone,a West African country historically plagued by anthrax,has almost been out of report on this disease in recent decades.In this study,we described a large-scale anthrax outbreak affecting both animals and humans and attempted to characterize the path-ogenusingmoleculartechniques.Methods The causative agent of the animal outbreak in Port Loko District,Sierra Leone,between March and May 2022 was identified using the nanopore sequencing technique.A nationwide active surveillance was implemented from May 2022 to June 2023 to monitor the occurrence of anthrax-specific symptoms in humans.Suspected cases were subsequently verified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Full-genome sequencing was accomplished by combining long-read and short-read sequencing methods.Subsequent phylogenetic analysis was performed based on the full-chromosome single nucleotide polymorphisms.Results The outbreak in Port Loko District,Sierra Leone,led to the death of 233 animals between March 26th and May 16th,2022.We ruled out the initial suspicion of Anaplasma species and successfully identified B.anthracis as the causative agent of the outbreak.As a result of the government's prompt response,out of the 49 suspected human cases identifed during the one-year active surveillance,only 6 human cases tested positive,all within the frst month after the official declaration of the outbreak.The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the BaSL2022 isolate responsible for the outbreak was positioned in the A.Br.153 clade within the TransEuroAsian group of B.anthracis.Conclusions We successfully identifed a large-scale anthrax outbreak in Sierra Leone.The causative isolate of B.anthracis,BaSL2022,phylogenetically bridged other lineages in A.Br.153 clade and neighboring genetic groups,A.Br.144 and A.Br.148,eventually confirming the spillover of anthrax from West Africa.Given the wide dissemination of B.anthracis spores,it is highly advisable to effectively monitor the potential reoccurrence of anthrax outbreaks and to launch campaigns to improve public awareness regarding anthrax in Sierra Leone.展开更多
文摘Anthrax is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.It poses significant threat to humans through contact with infected animals or their by-products.Concerns arise from its long-lasting spore viability and lethality,fuelling its biowarfare potential.Recent anthrax outbreaks across multiple African nations prompted this bibliometric study.The aim of the study was to assess the contributions of African countries,institutions,authors,research funding,and collaborations,while identifying research trends and gaps.We conducted an extensive bibliometric analysis of anthrax-related research publications in Africa from 1923 to 2023,utilizing the Scopus database and VOSviewer.The study covered 364 publications from 32 African countries,accumulating 5,636 citations at an average of 15.5 citations per article,with research articles comprising 88.5%of the corpus.The publication growth rate from 1923 to 2023 was modest at 8.3%,indicating gradual advancement.Notably,there was a significant surge in publications between 2011 and 2023,accounting for 73.1%of total publications.The African research contributions,were categorized into five thematic focuses:ecological dynamics and host interactions,human-livestock anthrax interface,molecular insights into bacterial activity and treatment strategies,collaborative approaches for zoonotic disease prevention,and antibody response and vaccination strategies.Leading institutional contributors included the University of Pretoria and the University of KwaZulu-Natal.Collaborations extended globally to 35 non-African countries,with significant involvement from the United States,United Kingdom,and Germany.Strong African partnerships,especially between Kenya,Nigeria,and South Africa,emerged.The top 10 cited papers explored diverse aspects,including disease impact on wildlife and innovative control strategies,underscoring the importance of multidisciplinary approaches.South Africa played a prominent role,contributing 95 publications and securing funding from various sources,including the National Research Foundation.Collaborations with global institutions highlighted its commitment.This study unveils the dynamic landscape of anthrax research in Africa,emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration,multidisciplinary One Health approaches,and global partnerships in enhancing research outcomes.Ongoing research and practical solutions for human and animal health remain imperative.
文摘Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.It is potentially fatal and highly contagious disease.Herbivores arc the natural host.Human acquire the disease incidentally by contact with infected animal or animal products.In the 18th century an epidemic destroyed approximately half of the sheep in Europe.In 1900 human inhalational anthrax occured sporadically in the United Stales.In 1979 an outbreak of human anthrax occured in Sverdlovsk of Soviet Union.Anthrax continued to represent a world wide presence.The incidence of the disease has decreased in developed countries as a result of vaccination and improved industrial hygiene.Human anthrax clinically presents in three forms,i.e.cutaneous,gastrointestinal and inhalational.About 95%of human anthrax is cutaneous and 5%is inhalational.Gastrointestinal anthrax is very rare(less than 1%).Inhalational form is used as a biological warefare agent. Penicillin,ciprofloxacin(and other quinolones),doxicyclin,ampicillin,imipenem.clindamycin, clarithromycin,vancomycin,chloramphenicol,rifampicin are effective antimicrobials. Antimicrobial therapy for 60 days is recommended.Human anthrax vaccine is available. Administration of anti-protective antigen(PA) antibody in combination with ciprofloxacin produced 90%-100%survival.The combination of CPG-adjuvanted anthrax vaccine adsorbed(AVA) plus dalbavancin significantly improved survival.
基金Defence Research and Development Establishment,Defence Research and Development Organization,Ministry of Defence,Gwalior
文摘Bioterrorism has received a lot of attention in the first decade of this century. Biological agents are considered attractive weapons for bioterrorism as these are easy to obtain, comparatively inexpensive to produce and exhibit widespread fear and panic than the actual potential of physical damage. Bacillus anthracis(B. anthracis), the etiologic agent of anthrax is a Gram positive, spore forming, non-motile bacterium. This is supposed to be one of the most potent BW agents because its spores are extremely resistant to natural conditions and can survive for several decades in the environment. B.anthracis spores enter the body through skin lesion(cutaneous anthrax), lungs(pulmonary anthrax), or gastrointestinal route(gastrointestinal anthrax) and germinate, giving rise to the vegetative form. Anthrax is a concern of public health also in many countries where agriculture is the main source of income including India. Anthrax has been associated with human history for a very long time and regained its popularity after Sept 2001 incidence in United States. The present review article describes the history, biology, life cycle, pathogenicity, virulence, epidemiology and potential of B. anthracis as biological weapon.
文摘Anthrax is an infection caused by bacteria and it affects both human and animal populations. The disease can be categorized under zoonotic diseases and humans can contract infections through contact with infected animals, ingest contaminated dairy and animal products. In this paper, we developed a mathematical model for anthrax transmission dynamics in both human and animal populations with optimal control. The qualitative solution of the model behaviour was analyzed by determining Rhv, equilibrium points and sensitivity analysis. A vaccination class was incorporated into the model with waning immunity. Local and global stability of the model’s equilibria was found to be locally asymptotically stable whenever Rhv Rhv. It was revealed that reducing animal and human interaction rate, would decrease Rhv. We extended the model to optimal control in order to find the best control strategy in reducing anthrax infections. It showed that the effective strategy in combating the anthrax epidemics is vaccination of animals and prevention of humans.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81472714the Central Plains Thousand Talents Plan-Central Plains Leading Talent Project,No.204200510023。
文摘Anthrax toxin receptor 1(ANTXR1),also known as tumor endothelial marker 8,is a highly conserved cell surface protein overexpressed in tumor-infiltrating vessels.It was first found in vascular endothelial cells of human colorectal cancer.Although our understanding of its physiological function is limited,it has been found that ANTXR1 binds collagen and promotes migration of endothelial cells in vitro.ANTXR1 is upregulated in vessels of different tumor types in mice and humans,and is also expressed by tumor cells themselves in some tumors,such as gastric,lung,intestinal and breast cancer.Developmental angiogenesis and wound healing were not disturbed in ANTXR1 knockout mice,but compared with wild-type mice,growth of melanoma was impaired after ANTXR1 knockout,indicating that host-derived ANTXR1 can promote tumor growth on the basis of immune activity.Previous studies have shown that ANTXR1 vaccines or sublethal doses of anthrax toxin can inhibit angiogenesis,slow tumor growth and prolong survival.These studies suggest that ANTXR1 is necessary for tumor rather than physiological angiogenesis.It has been found that ANTXR1 plays an important role in tumor angiogenesisas well as in the growth and metastasis of many kinds of tumors.This article reviews the physiological function of ANTXR1 and its role in different kinds of cancer.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.81170855)
文摘AIM: To prove anthrax lethal toxin(Le Tx) blocks the mitogen activated protein kinases(MAPKs) activation by degrading the MAPK/ERK kinases(MEKs) to suppress vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) secretion.METHODS: Human adult retinal pigmented epithelium(ARPE) cells were cultured and treated with normal glucose, high glucose or high glucose with Le Tx for additional 24, 48 or 72 h for viable cell count. Total RNA from the ARPE was isolated for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR). The conditioned medium of ARPE cells treated in different group for 48 h was filtered and diluted to detect the concentration of VEGF by enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays.Evaluate the role of MEK/MAPK pathway in the secretion of VEGF by immunoblotting. RESULTS: In this study, we proved high glucose induced activation of the MAPK extracellular signal-regulated kinase(ERK1/2) and p38 in the ARPE cell line was blocked by anthrax Le Tx. Le Tx also inhibited high glucose induced ARPE cell over proliferation.CONCLUSION: Le Tx suppressed high glucose induced VEGF over secretion in the ARPE cells, mainly through a post-translational mechanism.
基金This is part of Ms.Fatemeh Najafi dissertation approved by the deputy of research of Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences,and it was conducted under their grant No IR.MUK.REC.94.338.
文摘Objective:To explore the spatial accumulation of diseases andtheir aggravating factors are essential in all public health.This study attempts to use geographic information system(GIS)to provide more information about the incidence and future of anthrax.Methods:Patients were diagnosed with anthrax in Kurdistan Province from 2009 to 2016.Data was then exported into ArcGIS software version 9 and the required layers for years and areas were added.Final map for each year was drawn up,pointing out the hot spots and predicting its future pattern.Results:Most cases were reported in females(57 cases,54.80%),and the lower body limbs were most affected(63 cases,60.57%).The highest numbers of incidences were related to the cities of Marivan,Saqez and Divandareh,with more concentration in the central parts of the province,rather than borderline areas.The highest percentage of the probable incidence of the disease was in Sanandaj(57.74%)with a potential susceptible area of 1729.12 km2 and then in Saqez(54.36%)with a potential area of 2422.4 km2.Conclusions:A vast area of Kurdistan Province is high risk for new cases of anthrax.Therefore,it is important to scale up the surveillance system in the province.
基金Supported by The US Department of Defense grant DAMD17-03-C-0122
文摘AIM:To establish whether activation of adenosine type-3 receptors(A3Rs)and inhibition of interleukin- 1β-induced inflammation is beneficial in combination with antibiotic therapy to increase survival of mice challenged with anthrax spores. METHODS:DBA/2 mice were challenged with Bacillus anthracis spores of the toxigenic Sterne strain 43F2. Survival of animals was monitored for 15 d.Ciprofloxacin treatment(50 mg/kg,once daily,intraperitoneally) was initiated at day+1 simultaneously with the ad- ministration of inhibitors,and continued for 10 d.Two doses(2.5 mg/kg and 12.5 mg/kg)of acetyl-tyrosylvalyl-alanyl-aspartyl-chloromethylketone(YVAD)and three doses(0.05,0.15 and 0.3 mg/kg)of 1-[2-Chloro- 6-[[(3-iodophenyl)methyl]amino]-9H-purin-9-yl]-1- deoxy-N-methyl-β-D-ribofuranuronamide(Cl-IB-MECA) were tested.Animals received YVAD on days 1-4,and Cl-IB-MECA on days 1-10 once daily,subcutaneously. Human lung epithelial cells in culture were challenged with spores or edema toxin and the effects of IB-MECAon phosphorylation of AKT and generation of cAMP were tested. RESULTS:We showed that the outcome of antibiotic treatment in a murine anthrax model could be substantially improved by co-administration of the caspase-1/4 inhibitor YVAD and the A3R agonist Cl-IB-MECA.Combination treatment with these substances and ciprofloxacin resulted in up to 90%synergistic protection.All untreated mice died,and antibiotic alone protected only 30% of animals.We conclude that both substances target the aberrant host signaling that underpins anthrax mortality. CONCLUSION:Our findings suggest new possibilities for combination therapy of anthrax with antibiotics,A3R agonists and caspase-1 inhibitors.
文摘Rationale:Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by spores of Gram-positive Bacillus anthracis,commonly affects mammals and in rare cases birds.Human infection occurs accidentally through direct or indirect exposure to animal or their products.Patient concerns:A 63-year-old man was referred to our hospital with flu-like symptoms and severe swelling and redness on the face,the roof of the mouth,and nostrils.He had a history of direct contact with a slaughtered mutton two days ago.He declared controlled diabetes,hypertension,hypertriglyceridemia,and heart failure.Lungs were normal in lung high resolution CT,but multiple lymphadenopathies were seen in the mediastinum.Bilateral axillary lymphadenopathy with a maximum sad of 23 mm and pleural effusion on the right side was observed.CT scan of the nose and sinuses showed an increased density of polyps in the left maxillary sinus.Slides were prepared from the patient's lesions and examined under a light microscope.Bacillus shape with Streptococcus bacteria was seen.Diagnosis:Anthrax co-infection with herpes systemic virus and Streptococcus pyogenes.Interventions:Multidrug therapy started with appropriate antibiotics.Outcomes:The symptoms of the patient gradually disappeared.The patient was discharged without any complications.Lessons:Cutaneous anthrax in endemic areas in patients with skin presentations and a history of contact with infected animals or products should be considered a differential diagnosis.This is more important in mixed infections where the main cause of the problem may be hidden.
文摘Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of anthrax, a bacterial infection with a high mortality rate [1-3]. Although anthrax infection can be cutaneous, gastrointestinal or pulmonary, the pulmonary form is the most deadly [2,3]. Thus, the release of Bacillus anthracis spores that can be inhaled represents a potent bioterrorism threat;the capacity of B. anthracis spores to act as a bioterrorism weapon was demonstrated in 2001, with the intentional infection of 22 persons in the U.S.A. [2,4]. Until recently, the available vaccines were developed to confer protection against cutaneous infection;despite this, these vaccines demonstrated experimental efficacy against pulmonary infection in multiple animal models [1,2]. Nevertheless, there are many limitations for these vaccines to be considered successful and effective vaccine, including the intensity of the required vaccination schedule, the administration route and the presence of local adverse effects experienced after vaccination [1,3,5,6]. To develop more efficient vaccines against pulmonary anthrax, intranasal formulations with adjuvant have been studied. These formulations have advantages because they are easy to administer and because they are expected to induce both systemic and respiratory tract mucosal immune responses. Therefore, the main goal of this review is to compare the different experimental adjuvants used with anthrax antigens and the different approaches regarding the vaccination schedule and consecutive boosters.
文摘In Italy, in an area of about 50 km2 between Basilicata and Campania Southern regions, 28 outbreaks of anthrax occurred from August 28th to September 27th 2011. Different species were affected: laboratory tests confirmed anthrax in cattle, horses and sheep. The genetic analysis of strains isolated from infected animals indicated that outbreaks occurring in the two regions were not correlated. Intriguingly, the incidence was highly significant in horses compared to that of cattle and sheep or goats, which were prevalent species in the animal population. In addition, allinfected horses and many cattle developed a fatal, sub-acute form of anthrax, characterized by the presence of massive edema, usually absent in hyperacute forms. The characteristics of these outbreaks suggested a possible role of tabanids as vectors in the transmission of B. anthracis like-epidemic infection.
文摘Anthrax is an important zoonotic disease in Kenya causing high morbidity and mortality in both human and livestock.It is endemic in the country.The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge,attitude and practices(KAPS)of anthrax among pastoralists in Wajir,Isiolo and Marsabit.The study was cross-sectional whereby various areas of anthrax outbreaks were identified through the veterinary departments in the three study counties of Wajir,Isiolo and Marsabit.These areas were visited and using systematic sampling methods,a total of 400 households were visited.Data were collected through questionnaires administered via personal interviews.Information collected included demographic characteristics of the households,knowledge on anthrax,attitude and practices on the disease.Pastoralists had adequate knowledge on anthrax.They correctly pointed out the clinical signs of anthrax in livestock such as sudden death,bleeding from body orifices and cutanous sores.The indigenous knowledge was uniform in all the three counties.Despite that knowledge,they reportedly engaged in dangerous practices that would expose them to infection by anthrax.These practices included consumption of meat from suspect anthrax cases,opening of carcasses of dead animals and throwing of anthrax suspect carcasses in bushes.Anthrax is a well known disease in this pastoral setting.There is a need for education programmes to be designed for this community especially with regard to proper handling of suspect anthrax cases.Continuous anthrax efforts should be initiated through vaccination of livestock.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31301670)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2015M581205)
文摘The genus Anthrax Scopoli, 1763 is newly recorded from Vietnam. Previously, there were just two genera, Systropus and Heteralonia, in Bombyliidae recorded from Vietnam. Genus Anthrax with 248 known species, has a worldwide distribution, of which 25 species are from the Oriental Region. One species A. dentata Becker, 1906 from Vietnam is redescribed. A key to the genera of Bombyliidae from Vietnam is presented.
文摘Anthrax which is caused by Bacillus anthracis is typically a disease of herbivores. Spores existing in the skin, meat, hair or mouth and nose of animals are transmitted to humans through contact with a break in the skin, consumption of infected meat or inhalation of spores [1]. Infected uncooked or insufficiently cooked meats cause oropharyngeal and gastrointestinal system (GIS) anthrax. When this infected materials swallowed anthrax spores may cause lesions from the oral cavity to the caecum. The diagnosis of gastrointestinal system (GIS) anthrax is difficult due to insidious clinical progression of the disease and difficulty in the isolation of agent pathogen. Releated symptoms of GIS anthrax are sore throat, neck swelling, diffuculty swallowing, stomach pain, anoreksia, bloody diarrhea, nause, bloody vomiting and fever. Supportive and antibiotic treatments are required. Benzylpenicillin, rifampicin, clindamycin, chloramphenicol, imipenem/cilastatin, or vancomycin can be use for treatment, ciprofloxacin or doxycycline may be added to this treat- ment for serious cases. To emphasize the necessity of taking precautions, an oropharyngeal and intestinal anthrax case due to consumption of infected and insufficiently cooked meat is presented below.
文摘Background Anthrax,a zoonotic disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis,remains a major global public health concern,especially in countries with limited resources.Sierra Leone,a West African country historically plagued by anthrax,has almost been out of report on this disease in recent decades.In this study,we described a large-scale anthrax outbreak affecting both animals and humans and attempted to characterize the path-ogenusingmoleculartechniques.Methods The causative agent of the animal outbreak in Port Loko District,Sierra Leone,between March and May 2022 was identified using the nanopore sequencing technique.A nationwide active surveillance was implemented from May 2022 to June 2023 to monitor the occurrence of anthrax-specific symptoms in humans.Suspected cases were subsequently verified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Full-genome sequencing was accomplished by combining long-read and short-read sequencing methods.Subsequent phylogenetic analysis was performed based on the full-chromosome single nucleotide polymorphisms.Results The outbreak in Port Loko District,Sierra Leone,led to the death of 233 animals between March 26th and May 16th,2022.We ruled out the initial suspicion of Anaplasma species and successfully identified B.anthracis as the causative agent of the outbreak.As a result of the government's prompt response,out of the 49 suspected human cases identifed during the one-year active surveillance,only 6 human cases tested positive,all within the frst month after the official declaration of the outbreak.The phylogenetic analysis indicated that the BaSL2022 isolate responsible for the outbreak was positioned in the A.Br.153 clade within the TransEuroAsian group of B.anthracis.Conclusions We successfully identifed a large-scale anthrax outbreak in Sierra Leone.The causative isolate of B.anthracis,BaSL2022,phylogenetically bridged other lineages in A.Br.153 clade and neighboring genetic groups,A.Br.144 and A.Br.148,eventually confirming the spillover of anthrax from West Africa.Given the wide dissemination of B.anthracis spores,it is highly advisable to effectively monitor the potential reoccurrence of anthrax outbreaks and to launch campaigns to improve public awareness regarding anthrax in Sierra Leone.
