Dengue is an arboviral disease caused by the dengue virus,with 390 million infections reported annually worldwide.It is classified into two categories:dengue without or with warning signs and severe dengue.[1]Given th...Dengue is an arboviral disease caused by the dengue virus,with 390 million infections reported annually worldwide.It is classified into two categories:dengue without or with warning signs and severe dengue.[1]Given the moderate efficacy of the dengue vaccine,[2]there is an urgent necessity to design host-directed therapeutic strategies,such as the repurposing of FDA-approved drugs,to combat dengue virus infection.展开更多
BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1)infection is characterized by persistent systemic inflammation and immune activation,even in patients receiving effective antiretroviral therapy(ART).Converging dat...BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1)infection is characterized by persistent systemic inflammation and immune activation,even in patients receiving effective antiretroviral therapy(ART).Converging data from many cross-sectional studies suggest that gut microbiota(GM)changes can occur throughout including human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)infection,treated by ART;however,the results are contrasting.For the first time,we compared the fecal microbial composition,serum and fecal microbial metabolites,and serum cytokine profile of treatment-na?ve patients before starting ART and after reaching virological suppression,after 24 wk of ART therapy.In addition,we compared the microbiota composition,microbial metabolites,and cytokine profile of patients with CD4/CD8 ratio<1(immunological non-responders[INRs])and CD4/CD8>1(immunological responders[IRs]),after 24 wk of ART therapy.AIM To compare for the first time the fecal microbial composition,serum and fecal microbial metabolites,and serum cytokine profile of treatment-na?ve patients before starting ART and after reaching virological suppression(HIV RNA<50 copies/m L)after 24 wk of ART.METHODS We enrolled 12 treatment-na?ve HIV-infected patients receiving ART(mainly based on integrase inhibitors).Fecal microbiota composition was assessed through next generation sequencing.In addition,a comprehensive analysis of a blood broad-spectrum cytokine panel was performed through a multiplex approach.At the same time,serum free fatty acid(FFA)and fecal short chain fatty acid levels were obtained through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.RESULTS We first compared microbiota signatures,FFA levels,and cytokine profile before starting ART and after reaching virological suppression.Modest alterations were observed in microbiota composition,in particular in the viral suppression condition,we detected an increase of Ruminococcus and Succinivibrio and a decrease of Intestinibacter.Moreover,in the same condition,we also observed augmented levels of serum propionic and butyric acids.Contemporarily,a reduction of serum IP-10 and an increase of IL-8 levels were detected in the viral suppression condition.In addition,the same components were compared between IRs and INRs.Concerning the microflora population,we detected a reduction of Faecalibacterium and an increase of Alistipes in INRs.Simultaneously,fecal isobutyric,isovaleric,and 2-methylbutyric acids were also increased in INRs.CONCLUSION Our results provided an additional perspective about the impact of HIV infection,ART,and immune recovery on the"microbiome-immunity axis"at the metabolism level.These factors can act as indicators of the active processes occurring in the gastrointestinal tract.Individuals with HIV-1 infection,before ART and after reaching virological suppression with 24 wk of ART,displayed a microbiota with unchanged overall bacterial diversity;moreover,their systemic inflammatory status seems not to be completely restored.In addition,we confirmed the role of the GM metabolites in immune reconstitution.展开更多
Enteric viral pathogens are responsible for numerous epidemics associated with the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetable, whether raw or minimally processed. The aim of the present study was to assess agricultural ...Enteric viral pathogens are responsible for numerous epidemics associated with the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetable, whether raw or minimally processed. The aim of the present study was to assess agricultural practices and the presence of adenovirus (AdV) in fruits and vegetables, manure and irrigation wastewater sampled in the urban and peri-urban perimeters of Ouagadougou. A total of 286 samples including 30 lettuces, 42 tomatoes, 30 carrots, 30 strawberries, 74 manures and 80 wastewater samples were collected from four market garden sites in and around Ouagadougou. Nested PCR was performed with specific primers to detect adenoviruses (AdVs). A face-to-face survey was carried out using a questionnaire on market garden production practices. Overall, adenoviruses prevalence was 5.9% [IC95, 3.2% - 8.7%] in all samples analyzed. It was specifically 7.14% (3/42) from tomatoes, 6.7% (2/30) from lettuces, 20% (6/30) on strawberries and 7.5% (6/80) in irrigation water. The survey showed that irrigation water came from untreated sources (dam, well, canal) and then 52% of farms used untreated manure. No farms have implemented measures to limit access by domestic and wild animals. This work shows the presence of human adenoviruses in surface irrigation water and fresh produce, which is of concern when fresh produce is consumed raw. To reduce the public health risks associated with consuming these foods, it is essential to follow good hygiene and cultivation practices.展开更多
Due to the progressive aging of the hepatitis C virus(HCV) population which have acquired the infection during its maximum spread after the Second World War, the management of the elderly HCV-infected patient is emerg...Due to the progressive aging of the hepatitis C virus(HCV) population which have acquired the infection during its maximum spread after the Second World War, the management of the elderly HCV-infected patient is emerging as a hot topic. Unfortunately, although it is recognized that the progression of HCV-related liver disease gets faster with aging, and that even extrahepatic manifestations of HCV infection are probably worse in the elderly, till now, treatment attempts in this population have been significantly limited by the wellknown contraindications and side effects of interferon(IFN). The arrival of several new anti-HCV drugs, and the possibility to combine them in safe and effective anti-viral regimens, is relighting the hope of a cure for many elderly patients who had been cut out of IFN-based treatments. However, although these new regimens will be certainly more manageable, it should be underscored that IFN-free doesn't mean free from any contraindication or side-effect. Moreover, one issue which promises to become central is that of the possible interactions between antiviral therapy and the multiple drugs frequently assumed by elderly patients because of comorbidities. In this review, we will revise the epidemiology pointing to HCV as an infection of the elderly, the evidences that HCV harms the health of the aged patient more than that of the young one, and the available experiences of HCV treatment in the elderly with the "old" IFN-based regimens and with the newer drugs. We will conclude that the availability of IFNfree regimens should prompt us to change our mind and consider a significantly larger number of possible candidates among elderly patients, who would take significant advantage from viral eradication. Rather than the anagraphic age, drug-drug interactions and, mainly in case of economic restrictions, an evaluation of life expectancy dependent on liver disease with respect to that dependent on comorbidities, are likely to be the key issues guiding treatment indication in the next future. The sooner we will change our mind with respect to an a priori obstacle for anti-HCV treatment in the elderly, the sooner we will begin to spare many aged HCV patients from avoidable liver-related complications.展开更多
Polyomaviruses BK and JC are ubiquitous viruses with high seroprevalence rates in general population.Following primary infection,polyomaviruses BK and JC persist latently in different sites,particularly in the reno-ur...Polyomaviruses BK and JC are ubiquitous viruses with high seroprevalence rates in general population.Following primary infection,polyomaviruses BK and JC persist latently in different sites,particularly in the reno-urinary tract.Reactivation from latency may occur in normal subjects with asymptomatic viruria,while it can be associated to nephropathy(PVAN)in kidney transplantat recipients.PVAN may occur in 1%-10%of renal transplant patients with loss of the transplanted organ in 30%up to 80%of the cases.Etiology of PVAN is mainly attributable to BK virus,although approximately5%of the cases may be due to JC.Pathogenesis of PVAN is still unknown,although viral replication and the lack of immune control play a major role.Immunosuppression represents the condicio sine qua non for the development of PVAN and the modulation of anti-rejection treatment represents the first line of intervention,given the lack of specific antiviral agents.At moment,an appropriate immunemodulation can only be accomplished by early identification of viral reactivacation by evaluation of polyomavirus load on serum and/or urine specimens,particularly in the first year post-trasplantation.Viro-immunological monitoring of specific cellular immune response could be useful to identify patients unable to recover cellular immunity posttransplantation,that are at higher risk of viral reactivation with development of PVAN.Herein,the main features of polyomaviruses BK and JC,biological properties,clinical characteristics,etiopathogenesis,monitoring and diag-nosing of PVAN will be described and discussed,with an extended citation of related relevant literature data.展开更多
Objective:To identify the circulating serotypes of human echovinis in Malaysia from 2002 in 2013.Methods:A toial of 31 retrospective samples from non-polio acute flacid paralysis,hand-food-and-mouth disease,viral meni...Objective:To identify the circulating serotypes of human echovinis in Malaysia from 2002 in 2013.Methods:A toial of 31 retrospective samples from non-polio acute flacid paralysis,hand-food-and-mouth disease,viral meningitis and enterovirus cases were subjected to amplification of partial VPI gene by RT-PCR.Results:Sequencing and phylogeneiic analysis of the partial sequences identified presence of human echovinis and human coxsackie viruses.It was found that echovinis 11 was the commonly circulating serotype followed by echovinis6.echovinis 7.echovinis 3.echovinis 9.echovinis 30 and echovinis I in decreasing order.Additionally two types of human coxsackie virus isolates were detected which were coxsackie A24 and B3.Condusions:From the findings,there is a possibility that echovinis 11 is the predominant serotype among Malaysian patients with echovinis infection.However,a larger sample size will yield a more confident result to support this evidence.____________________展开更多
The market of ornamental plants is extremely competitive,and for many species genetic engineering can be used to introduce original traits of high commercial interest.However,very few genetically modified(GM)ornamenta...The market of ornamental plants is extremely competitive,and for many species genetic engineering can be used to introduce original traits of high commercial interest.However,very few genetically modified(GM)ornamental varieties have reached the market so far.Indeed,the authorization process required for such plants has a strong impact on the profitability of the development of such products.Considering the numerous scientific studies using genetic modification on ornamental species of interest,a lot of transformed material has been produced,could be of commercial interest and could therefore be unintentionally released on the market.The unintentional use of GM petunia in breeding programs has indeed recently been observed.This review lists scientific publications using GM ornamental plants and tries to identify whether these plants could be detected by molecular biology tools commonly used by control laboratories.展开更多
The International Health Regulations was enforced in June 2007,emphasizing the obligation of State Parties to detect,report,and respond to public health emergencies[1].An effective public health response requires a co...The International Health Regulations was enforced in June 2007,emphasizing the obligation of State Parties to detect,report,and respond to public health emergencies[1].An effective public health response requires a coordinated laboratory response in the Ministry of Health(MOH)network with credible laboratories capable of providing accurate and reliable results in a timely manner to enable effective public health measures展开更多
Objective: To determine drug resistance mutations and the HIV-1 subtypes among antiretroviral treatment naive HIV-1 patients in Peninsular Malaysia,Methods: A total of 45 samples from four hospitals that provide HIV v...Objective: To determine drug resistance mutations and the HIV-1 subtypes among antiretroviral treatment naive HIV-1 patients in Peninsular Malaysia,Methods: A total of 45 samples from four hospitals that provide HIV viral load services were subjected to the amplification of the protease and two third of reverse transcriptase regions of the pol gene by RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing,Drug resistance mutation(DRM) interpretation reports the presence of mutations related to protease inhibitors(PIs),Nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors(NRTI) and Non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors(NNRTI) based on analysis using Stanford HIV database program,Results: DRMs were identified in 35% of patients,among which 46.7% of them showed minor resistance to protease inhibitor with A71 V and L10 l were the commonest DRMs detected,About 21.4% and 50.0% of patients had mutations to NRTIs and NNRTIs,respectively,CRF01_AE was found to be the predominant HIV-1 subtype,Conclusions: These findings have served as an initial crucial data in determining the prevalence of transmitted HIV-1 drug resistance for the country,However,more samples from various parts of the country need to be accumulated and analyzed to provide overall HIV-1 drug resistance in the country.展开更多
Recent improvement in the technologies for efficient delivery of DNA vaccines has renewed interest in the DNA-based vaccines. Several DNA-based vaccines against human enterovirus 71 (EV71), the causative agent for han...Recent improvement in the technologies for efficient delivery of DNA vaccines has renewed interest in the DNA-based vaccines. Several DNA-based vaccines against human enterovirus 71 (EV71), the causative agent for hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have been developed. Here we examined the potential of improving the vaccines by inserting the EV71 5’ untranslated region (5’ UTR) containing the full length internal ribosome entry site (IRES) sequence to the EV71 VP1-based DNA vaccine constructs. Four vaccine constructs designated as 5’ UTR-VP1/EGFP, VP1/EGFP, 5’ UTR-VP1/pVAX and VP1/pVAX, were designed using the pEGFP-N1 and pVAX-1 expression vectors, respectively. Transfection of Vero cells with the vaccine constructs with the 5’-UTR (5’-UTR-VP1/EGFP and 5’ UTR-VP1/pVAX) resulted in higher percentages of cells expressing the recombinant protein in comparison to cells transfected with vectors without the 5’-UTR (67% and 57%, respectively). Higher IgG responses (29%) were obtained from mice immunized with the DNA vaccine construct with the full length 5’ UTR. The same group of mice when challenged with life EV71 produced significantly higher neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers (>5-fold). These results suggest that insertion of the EV71 5’ UTR sequence consisting of the full length IRES to the EV71 DNA vaccine constructs improved the efficacy of the constructs with enhanced elicitation of the neutralizing antibody responses.展开更多
AIM:To assess,in a routine practice setting,the sus-tained virologic response(SVR) to telaprevir(TPV) or boceprevir(BOC) in hepatitis C virus(HCV) nullresponders or relapsers with severe liver fibrosis.METHODS:One hun...AIM:To assess,in a routine practice setting,the sus-tained virologic response(SVR) to telaprevir(TPV) or boceprevir(BOC) in hepatitis C virus(HCV) nullresponders or relapsers with severe liver fibrosis.METHODS:One hundred twenty-five patients were treated prospectively for 48 wk with TPV or BOC + pegylated-interferon(peg-INF) α2a + ribavirin(PR) according to standard treatment schedules without randomization.These patients were treated in routine practice settings in 10 public or private health care centers,and the data were prospectively collected.Only patients with severe liver fibrosis(Metavir scores of F3 or F4 upon liver biopsy or liver stiffness assessed by elastography),genotype 1 HCV and who were null-responders or relapsers to prior PR combination therapy were included in this study.RESULTS:The Metavir fibrosis scores were F3 in 35(28%) and F4 in 90(72%) of the patients.In total,62.9% of the patients were null-responders and 37.1% relapsers to the previous PR therapy.The overall SVR rate at 24 wk post-treatment withdrawal was 59.8%.The SVR was 65.9% in the TPV group and 44.1% in the BOC group.Independent predictive factors of an SVR included a response to previous treatment,relapsers vs null-responders [OR = 3.9;(1.4,10.6),P = 0.0084],a rapid virological response(RVR) [OR 6.9(2.6,18.2),P = 0.001] and liver stiffness lower than 21.3 kPa [OR = 8.2(2.3,29.5),P = 0.001].During treatment,63 patients(50.8%) had at least one severe adverse event(SAE) of grade 3 or 4.A multivariate analysis identified two factors associated with SAEs:female gender [OR = 2.4(1.1,5.6),P = 0.037] and a platelet count below 150 × 103/ mm3 [OR = 5.3(2.3,12.4),P ≤ 0.001].CONCLUSION:More than half of these difficult-to-treat patients achieved an SVR and had SAEs in an actual practice setting.The SVR rate was influenced by the response to previous PR treatment,the RVR and liver stiffness.展开更多
Objective:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide.In Malaysia,liver cancer is one of the main cancers detected in the population with an annual mortality rate of 6.1%in 2013...Objective:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide.In Malaysia,liver cancer is one of the main cancers detected in the population with an annual mortality rate of 6.1%in 2013.Hepatitis C virus(HCV)infection is one of the causes attributed to the incidence of HCC.HCV infection remains a major concern in Malaysia as many people are unaware of their infection status.With the accessibility and effectiveness of Direct Acting Agents(DAAs).展开更多
Virus-specific immune responses have a major impact on the outcome of the infection. Viral agents that are characterized by latency, such as herpesviruses and polyomaviruses, require a continuous immune control to red...Virus-specific immune responses have a major impact on the outcome of the infection. Viral agents that are characterized by latency, such as herpesviruses and polyomaviruses, require a continuous immune control to reduce the extent of viral reactivation, as viral clearance cannot be accomplished, independently from the anti-viral treatment. In transplant patients, morbidity and mortality related to viral infections are significantly increased. In fact, the key steps of activation of T-cells are major target for anti-rejection immunosuppressive therapy and anti-viral immune response may be altered when infected cells and cellular effectors of immune response coexist in a transplanted organ. The role of cellular immune response in controlling viral replication and the main methods employed for its evaluation will be discussed. In particular, the main features, including both advantages and limitations, of available assays, including intracellular cytokine staining, major histocompatibility complex- multimer-based assays, Elispot assay, and Quanti FERON test, will be described. The potential applications of these assays in the transplant context will be discussed, particularly in relation to cytomegalovirus and polyomavirus BK infection. The relevance of introducing viro-immunological monitoring, beside virological monitoring, in order to identify the risk profile for viral infections in the transplant patients will allows for define a patient-tailored clinical management, particular in terms of modulation of immunosuppressive therapy and anti-viral administration.展开更多
TORCH complex, one of the potential infections that may occur during pregnancy, may contribute also to prenatal pregnant women’s anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to explore the presence of psychiatri...TORCH complex, one of the potential infections that may occur during pregnancy, may contribute also to prenatal pregnant women’s anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to explore the presence of psychiatric symptoms, in relation with infection of TORCH agents, specifically the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV). The study was conducted on 58 pregnant women recruited from the Clinical Virology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, P.O. “Gaspare Rodolico”, from September 2012 to March 2014. Psychiatric symptoms were evaluated through the Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90 R) in pregnant women with CMV or T. gondii infection. Moreover, pregnant women were invited to participate in a program of “Counseling about behavioral change”, an effective psychotherapeutic training for the development of new motivational strategies to the infection acceptance, the greater self-confidence and greater adherence to treatment. The age of the subjects was positively correlated with Depression (r = 0.119, p ? 0.178, p ? 0.231, r = ? 0.320, p ? 0.208, p ? 0.105, p ? 0.236, p < 0.05). Finally, we can notice an improvement of the variables Anxiety and Somatization in the whole sample after the attendance at the counseling psychotherapic program. Our study suggests the presence of anxiety and somatization in pregnant women with infection, expression of a phase of emotional fragility with the concern of transmitting a serious disease in the unborn child. The program “Counseling about behavioral change” allowed us to create an atmosphere of trust and to understand the usefulness of “empathic listening”. Giving correct and accurate information about the disease reassures the patient and prevents the realization of negative thoughts and further concern and discomfort.展开更多
Hepatitis C virus(HCV)is still one of the main causes of liver disease worldwide.Metabolic disorders,including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),induced by HCV have been shown to accelerate the progression of fi...Hepatitis C virus(HCV)is still one of the main causes of liver disease worldwide.Metabolic disorders,including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),induced by HCV have been shown to accelerate the progression of fibrosis to cirrhosis and to increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.An optimal peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha(PPARGC1A)activity is crucial to prevent NAFLD installation.The present study aims to investigate the associations between two common PPARGC1A polymorphisms(rs8192678 and rs12640088)and the outcomes of HCV infection in a North African context.A series of 592 consecutive Moroccan subjects,including 292 patients with chronic hepatitis C(CHC),100 resolvers and 200 healthy controls were genotyped using a TaqMan allelic discrimination assay.PPARGC1A variations at rs8192678 and rs12640088 were not associated with spontaneous clearance of HCV infection(adjusted ORs=0.76 and 0.79 respectively,P[0.05,for both).Furthermore,multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that both SNPs were not associated with fibrosis progression(OR=0.71;95%CI 0.20–2.49;P=0.739;OR=1.28;95%CI 0.25–6.54;P=0.512,respectively).We conclude that,in the genetic context of South Mediterranean patients,rs8192678 and rs12640088 polymorphisms of PPARGC1 A are neither associated with spontaneous clearance nor with disease progression in individuals infected with HCV.展开更多
Clinical manifestations of human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) have not been clearly defined, and the role of HHV-6 in human disease among infants and children in Kuwait remains to be fully elucidated. A retrospective study c...Clinical manifestations of human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) have not been clearly defined, and the role of HHV-6 in human disease among infants and children in Kuwait remains to be fully elucidated. A retrospective study covering the period between 2008 and 2014 was conducted on infants and children aged from 1 month to 5 years. Blood and CSF samples from infants and children who presented with symptoms suggestive HHV-6 infection were subjected to PCR test for HHV-6. Results showed that 9.3% (n = 42) of infants and children were positive for HHV-6. Fever was the most noticeable symptoms, presenting in 50% (n = 21) of the patients. Also, neutropenia was highly associated with HHV-6 infection, where it presented in 35.8% (n = 15) of infants and children. Our results provided important information about the clinical outcome of HHV-6 infection among infants and children in Kuwait.展开更多
<b>Objective:</b> Evaluation antiviral effects of <i>Withania somnifera</i> (Ashwagandha) leaf extract against HCV. <b>Methods:</b> cell proliferation was assessed using MTT assay a...<b>Objective:</b> Evaluation antiviral effects of <i>Withania somnifera</i> (Ashwagandha) leaf extract against HCV. <b>Methods:</b> cell proliferation was assessed using MTT assay after isolation of lymphocyte cells and treated with Ashwagandha water extract (ASH-WX) (6.25 mg/ml - 100 mg/ml). Assessment of quantitative Real-time PCR, Colony forming assay, TNF-<i>α</i> and molecular docking studies after infection of normal lymphocyte cells with 1 ml (1.5 × 10<sup>6</sup> HCV) serum then incubated with ASH-WX at concentration 25 mg/ml & 50 mg/ml. <b>Results:</b> MTT assay revealed a significant increase (p < 0.001) in normal lymphocyte proliferation at all concentration’s particularity at 25 mg/ml with SI (6.06) and at 50 mg/ml with (5.8). While TNF-<i>α</i> significantly decreased following ASH-WX treatment compared with control untreated infected cells (p < 0.05). PCR results showed a marked viral load reduction after treatment by ASH-WX at concentration 25 mg/ml to 6.241 × 10<sup>3</sup> IU/mL. Colony formation assay test revealed colony formation reduction compared to positive untreated control. Molecular docking analysis revealed good prediction of binding between Ashwagandha and NS5B and PKN2 compared to Sovaldi. <b>Conclusion: </b> ASH-WX may be a powerful antiviral against HCV infection.展开更多
Vaginal carriage of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a maternal and child health issue. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of GBS carriage;identify the factors associated with this carriage and determine the ...Vaginal carriage of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a maternal and child health issue. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of GBS carriage;identify the factors associated with this carriage and determine the antibiotic sensitivity of the isolated strains. We conducted a cross-sectional and prospective study in rural Senegal (in the health district of Sokone). Socio-demographic, clinical and gynaeco-obstetrical data were collected. Vaginal swabs were taken by the midwives on specific settings in order to test for GBS and other High Risk Vaginal Bacteria (HRVB). Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done according to the recommendations of the CA SFM/EUCAST 2020. In total, 100 pregnant women were targeted and 97 pregnant women were included. Their age ranged from 18 to 40 years with 64.9% (63/97) of participants belonging to the “20 - 30” age group. The overall prevalence of Group B Streptococcus carriage was 15.5% (15/97). However, the proportion of women with at least one high risk infectious bacteria was 29.89% (29/97). No statistically significant differences were found between GBS carriage and the potential factors studied. However, the study also looked for the presence of other high-risk bacteria and coinfections were indeed found between GBS and E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotic susceptibility testing shows that GBS strains were fully susceptible to penicillin G, erythromycin, clindamycin, chloramphenicol, rifampicin and vancomycin. Sensitivities to norfloxacin and gentamycin were 73.3% and 86.7% respectively. In contrast, high resistance to tetracycline (86.7%) was observed. GBS carriage remains a major public health issue because of its consequences for the mother and the newborn. Correct screening and proper monitoring of strain susceptibility remain one of the most effective means of patient management and care.展开更多
Background:Encephalitis is a serious neurological syndrome that can be caused by various infectious agents,particularly in immunocompromised in-dividuals.Among these agents,viruses from the Herpesviridaefamily play a ...Background:Encephalitis is a serious neurological syndrome that can be caused by various infectious agents,particularly in immunocompromised in-dividuals.Among these agents,viruses from the Herpesviridaefamily play a major role,although their diagnosis is often underestimated and their involve-ment remains poorly understood,particularly in developing countries such as those in West Africa.Aim:This cross-sectional,descriptive,multicenter study was conducted in hospitals in two regions of Côte d’Ivoire,namely Abidjan and Bouaké,between March 2024 and April 2025 to assess the prevalence of herpesviruses.Methods:CSF samples were collected from patients aged≥15 years who presented with clinical signs of encephalitis and were subjected to molecular analysis.Viral DNA extraction and PCR tests were used to detect Herpessimplexvirus1 and 2(HSV 1/2),Varicella-Zostervirus(VZV),Ep-stein-Barrvirus(EBV),Cytomegalovirus(CMV),and Humanherpesvirus6(HHV6).Clinical data and molecular analysis results were recorded using Ex-cel software,and statistical analysis was performed using RStudio 4.2.1 soft-ware.Results are presented as mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables and as percentages for qualitative variables.Results:A total of 388 patients were included in this study(222 women and 166 men;age range 15-79 years;mean age 45.36±13.55 years),and 60(15.46%)were positive for one or more herpesvirus.Epstein-Barrvirus was most frequently detected in 33(55.00%)of positive cases,followed byCytomegaloviruswith 20(33.33%)and Varicella-Zostervirusand Humanherpesvirus6 with respective rates of 20.00%(12)for VZV and 11.67%(07)for HHV6.A singleHerpessimplexvirus(1.67%)was detected.Among the patients with a positive PCR,10(16.67%)were co-infected with herpesviruses.All co-infected patients were HIV sero-positive.The chi-square test showed a significant association between HIV in-fection status and the molecular detection of herpesvirus in patients with en-cephalitis(OR 3.9;95%CI:[1.4-9.3];P<0.0015).Conclusion:Herpesviruses are a significant cause of encephalitis,particularly in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients.In our study,EBV and CMV were the most common.Therefore,the rapid identification of these viruses in the CSF and the initiation of appropriate antiviral treatment are essential to reduce mor-tality and improve the management of patients with encephalitis.Further-more,the development of new antiviral molecules,optimization of therapeu-tic strategies,and improvement of diagnostic techniques would provide pro-spects for better control of these infections.展开更多
Dear Editor,Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC)is the sixth most common cancer worldwide,with a constantly growing incidence.HNSCC comprises a group of heterogeneous tumors that originate from the upper diges...Dear Editor,Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC)is the sixth most common cancer worldwide,with a constantly growing incidence.HNSCC comprises a group of heterogeneous tumors that originate from the upper digestive region.Tobacco,alcohol abuse,and human papillomaviruses(HPV)infection are the major etiologic agents for HNSCC.Local relapse and metastasis are major causes of mortality,accounting for 50%of cases.展开更多
基金funded by grants Pronaii 302979A1-S-9005 CONACyT (México) from RMDA。
文摘Dengue is an arboviral disease caused by the dengue virus,with 390 million infections reported annually worldwide.It is classified into two categories:dengue without or with warning signs and severe dengue.[1]Given the moderate efficacy of the dengue vaccine,[2]there is an urgent necessity to design host-directed therapeutic strategies,such as the repurposing of FDA-approved drugs,to combat dengue virus infection.
基金Supported by University of Florence,No.XXXV PhD Program。
文摘BACKGROUND Human immunodeficiency virus type 1(HIV-1)infection is characterized by persistent systemic inflammation and immune activation,even in patients receiving effective antiretroviral therapy(ART).Converging data from many cross-sectional studies suggest that gut microbiota(GM)changes can occur throughout including human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)infection,treated by ART;however,the results are contrasting.For the first time,we compared the fecal microbial composition,serum and fecal microbial metabolites,and serum cytokine profile of treatment-na?ve patients before starting ART and after reaching virological suppression,after 24 wk of ART therapy.In addition,we compared the microbiota composition,microbial metabolites,and cytokine profile of patients with CD4/CD8 ratio<1(immunological non-responders[INRs])and CD4/CD8>1(immunological responders[IRs]),after 24 wk of ART therapy.AIM To compare for the first time the fecal microbial composition,serum and fecal microbial metabolites,and serum cytokine profile of treatment-na?ve patients before starting ART and after reaching virological suppression(HIV RNA<50 copies/m L)after 24 wk of ART.METHODS We enrolled 12 treatment-na?ve HIV-infected patients receiving ART(mainly based on integrase inhibitors).Fecal microbiota composition was assessed through next generation sequencing.In addition,a comprehensive analysis of a blood broad-spectrum cytokine panel was performed through a multiplex approach.At the same time,serum free fatty acid(FFA)and fecal short chain fatty acid levels were obtained through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.RESULTS We first compared microbiota signatures,FFA levels,and cytokine profile before starting ART and after reaching virological suppression.Modest alterations were observed in microbiota composition,in particular in the viral suppression condition,we detected an increase of Ruminococcus and Succinivibrio and a decrease of Intestinibacter.Moreover,in the same condition,we also observed augmented levels of serum propionic and butyric acids.Contemporarily,a reduction of serum IP-10 and an increase of IL-8 levels were detected in the viral suppression condition.In addition,the same components were compared between IRs and INRs.Concerning the microflora population,we detected a reduction of Faecalibacterium and an increase of Alistipes in INRs.Simultaneously,fecal isobutyric,isovaleric,and 2-methylbutyric acids were also increased in INRs.CONCLUSION Our results provided an additional perspective about the impact of HIV infection,ART,and immune recovery on the"microbiome-immunity axis"at the metabolism level.These factors can act as indicators of the active processes occurring in the gastrointestinal tract.Individuals with HIV-1 infection,before ART and after reaching virological suppression with 24 wk of ART,displayed a microbiota with unchanged overall bacterial diversity;moreover,their systemic inflammatory status seems not to be completely restored.In addition,we confirmed the role of the GM metabolites in immune reconstitution.
文摘Enteric viral pathogens are responsible for numerous epidemics associated with the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetable, whether raw or minimally processed. The aim of the present study was to assess agricultural practices and the presence of adenovirus (AdV) in fruits and vegetables, manure and irrigation wastewater sampled in the urban and peri-urban perimeters of Ouagadougou. A total of 286 samples including 30 lettuces, 42 tomatoes, 30 carrots, 30 strawberries, 74 manures and 80 wastewater samples were collected from four market garden sites in and around Ouagadougou. Nested PCR was performed with specific primers to detect adenoviruses (AdVs). A face-to-face survey was carried out using a questionnaire on market garden production practices. Overall, adenoviruses prevalence was 5.9% [IC95, 3.2% - 8.7%] in all samples analyzed. It was specifically 7.14% (3/42) from tomatoes, 6.7% (2/30) from lettuces, 20% (6/30) on strawberries and 7.5% (6/80) in irrigation water. The survey showed that irrigation water came from untreated sources (dam, well, canal) and then 52% of farms used untreated manure. No farms have implemented measures to limit access by domestic and wild animals. This work shows the presence of human adenoviruses in surface irrigation water and fresh produce, which is of concern when fresh produce is consumed raw. To reduce the public health risks associated with consuming these foods, it is essential to follow good hygiene and cultivation practices.
文摘Due to the progressive aging of the hepatitis C virus(HCV) population which have acquired the infection during its maximum spread after the Second World War, the management of the elderly HCV-infected patient is emerging as a hot topic. Unfortunately, although it is recognized that the progression of HCV-related liver disease gets faster with aging, and that even extrahepatic manifestations of HCV infection are probably worse in the elderly, till now, treatment attempts in this population have been significantly limited by the wellknown contraindications and side effects of interferon(IFN). The arrival of several new anti-HCV drugs, and the possibility to combine them in safe and effective anti-viral regimens, is relighting the hope of a cure for many elderly patients who had been cut out of IFN-based treatments. However, although these new regimens will be certainly more manageable, it should be underscored that IFN-free doesn't mean free from any contraindication or side-effect. Moreover, one issue which promises to become central is that of the possible interactions between antiviral therapy and the multiple drugs frequently assumed by elderly patients because of comorbidities. In this review, we will revise the epidemiology pointing to HCV as an infection of the elderly, the evidences that HCV harms the health of the aged patient more than that of the young one, and the available experiences of HCV treatment in the elderly with the "old" IFN-based regimens and with the newer drugs. We will conclude that the availability of IFNfree regimens should prompt us to change our mind and consider a significantly larger number of possible candidates among elderly patients, who would take significant advantage from viral eradication. Rather than the anagraphic age, drug-drug interactions and, mainly in case of economic restrictions, an evaluation of life expectancy dependent on liver disease with respect to that dependent on comorbidities, are likely to be the key issues guiding treatment indication in the next future. The sooner we will change our mind with respect to an a priori obstacle for anti-HCV treatment in the elderly, the sooner we will begin to spare many aged HCV patients from avoidable liver-related complications.
文摘Polyomaviruses BK and JC are ubiquitous viruses with high seroprevalence rates in general population.Following primary infection,polyomaviruses BK and JC persist latently in different sites,particularly in the reno-urinary tract.Reactivation from latency may occur in normal subjects with asymptomatic viruria,while it can be associated to nephropathy(PVAN)in kidney transplantat recipients.PVAN may occur in 1%-10%of renal transplant patients with loss of the transplanted organ in 30%up to 80%of the cases.Etiology of PVAN is mainly attributable to BK virus,although approximately5%of the cases may be due to JC.Pathogenesis of PVAN is still unknown,although viral replication and the lack of immune control play a major role.Immunosuppression represents the condicio sine qua non for the development of PVAN and the modulation of anti-rejection treatment represents the first line of intervention,given the lack of specific antiviral agents.At moment,an appropriate immunemodulation can only be accomplished by early identification of viral reactivacation by evaluation of polyomavirus load on serum and/or urine specimens,particularly in the first year post-trasplantation.Viro-immunological monitoring of specific cellular immune response could be useful to identify patients unable to recover cellular immunity posttransplantation,that are at higher risk of viral reactivation with development of PVAN.Herein,the main features of polyomaviruses BK and JC,biological properties,clinical characteristics,etiopathogenesis,monitoring and diag-nosing of PVAN will be described and discussed,with an extended citation of related relevant literature data.
基金supported by Institute for Medical Research Operational Grant(Vol:040300/OS27403)
文摘Objective:To identify the circulating serotypes of human echovinis in Malaysia from 2002 in 2013.Methods:A toial of 31 retrospective samples from non-polio acute flacid paralysis,hand-food-and-mouth disease,viral meningitis and enterovirus cases were subjected to amplification of partial VPI gene by RT-PCR.Results:Sequencing and phylogeneiic analysis of the partial sequences identified presence of human echovinis and human coxsackie viruses.It was found that echovinis 11 was the commonly circulating serotype followed by echovinis6.echovinis 7.echovinis 3.echovinis 9.echovinis 30 and echovinis I in decreasing order.Additionally two types of human coxsackie virus isolates were detected which were coxsackie A24 and B3.Condusions:From the findings,there is a possibility that echovinis 11 is the predominant serotype among Malaysian patients with echovinis infection.However,a larger sample size will yield a more confident result to support this evidence.____________________
文摘The market of ornamental plants is extremely competitive,and for many species genetic engineering can be used to introduce original traits of high commercial interest.However,very few genetically modified(GM)ornamental varieties have reached the market so far.Indeed,the authorization process required for such plants has a strong impact on the profitability of the development of such products.Considering the numerous scientific studies using genetic modification on ornamental species of interest,a lot of transformed material has been produced,could be of commercial interest and could therefore be unintentionally released on the market.The unintentional use of GM petunia in breeding programs has indeed recently been observed.This review lists scientific publications using GM ornamental plants and tries to identify whether these plants could be detected by molecular biology tools commonly used by control laboratories.
基金funded by the operational budget of the Disease Control Division,Ministry of Health,Malaysia
文摘The International Health Regulations was enforced in June 2007,emphasizing the obligation of State Parties to detect,report,and respond to public health emergencies[1].An effective public health response requires a coordinated laboratory response in the Ministry of Health(MOH)network with credible laboratories capable of providing accurate and reliable results in a timely manner to enable effective public health measures
基金funded by Ministry of Health,Malaysia(JPP-IMR:11-006NMRR-11-181-8832)
文摘Objective: To determine drug resistance mutations and the HIV-1 subtypes among antiretroviral treatment naive HIV-1 patients in Peninsular Malaysia,Methods: A total of 45 samples from four hospitals that provide HIV viral load services were subjected to the amplification of the protease and two third of reverse transcriptase regions of the pol gene by RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing,Drug resistance mutation(DRM) interpretation reports the presence of mutations related to protease inhibitors(PIs),Nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors(NRTI) and Non-nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors(NNRTI) based on analysis using Stanford HIV database program,Results: DRMs were identified in 35% of patients,among which 46.7% of them showed minor resistance to protease inhibitor with A71 V and L10 l were the commonest DRMs detected,About 21.4% and 50.0% of patients had mutations to NRTIs and NNRTIs,respectively,CRF01_AE was found to be the predominant HIV-1 subtype,Conclusions: These findings have served as an initial crucial data in determining the prevalence of transmitted HIV-1 drug resistance for the country,However,more samples from various parts of the country need to be accumulated and analyzed to provide overall HIV-1 drug resistance in the country.
文摘Recent improvement in the technologies for efficient delivery of DNA vaccines has renewed interest in the DNA-based vaccines. Several DNA-based vaccines against human enterovirus 71 (EV71), the causative agent for hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) have been developed. Here we examined the potential of improving the vaccines by inserting the EV71 5’ untranslated region (5’ UTR) containing the full length internal ribosome entry site (IRES) sequence to the EV71 VP1-based DNA vaccine constructs. Four vaccine constructs designated as 5’ UTR-VP1/EGFP, VP1/EGFP, 5’ UTR-VP1/pVAX and VP1/pVAX, were designed using the pEGFP-N1 and pVAX-1 expression vectors, respectively. Transfection of Vero cells with the vaccine constructs with the 5’-UTR (5’-UTR-VP1/EGFP and 5’ UTR-VP1/pVAX) resulted in higher percentages of cells expressing the recombinant protein in comparison to cells transfected with vectors without the 5’-UTR (67% and 57%, respectively). Higher IgG responses (29%) were obtained from mice immunized with the DNA vaccine construct with the full length 5’ UTR. The same group of mice when challenged with life EV71 produced significantly higher neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers (>5-fold). These results suggest that insertion of the EV71 5’ UTR sequence consisting of the full length IRES to the EV71 DNA vaccine constructs improved the efficacy of the constructs with enhanced elicitation of the neutralizing antibody responses.
文摘AIM:To assess,in a routine practice setting,the sus-tained virologic response(SVR) to telaprevir(TPV) or boceprevir(BOC) in hepatitis C virus(HCV) nullresponders or relapsers with severe liver fibrosis.METHODS:One hundred twenty-five patients were treated prospectively for 48 wk with TPV or BOC + pegylated-interferon(peg-INF) α2a + ribavirin(PR) according to standard treatment schedules without randomization.These patients were treated in routine practice settings in 10 public or private health care centers,and the data were prospectively collected.Only patients with severe liver fibrosis(Metavir scores of F3 or F4 upon liver biopsy or liver stiffness assessed by elastography),genotype 1 HCV and who were null-responders or relapsers to prior PR combination therapy were included in this study.RESULTS:The Metavir fibrosis scores were F3 in 35(28%) and F4 in 90(72%) of the patients.In total,62.9% of the patients were null-responders and 37.1% relapsers to the previous PR therapy.The overall SVR rate at 24 wk post-treatment withdrawal was 59.8%.The SVR was 65.9% in the TPV group and 44.1% in the BOC group.Independent predictive factors of an SVR included a response to previous treatment,relapsers vs null-responders [OR = 3.9;(1.4,10.6),P = 0.0084],a rapid virological response(RVR) [OR 6.9(2.6,18.2),P = 0.001] and liver stiffness lower than 21.3 kPa [OR = 8.2(2.3,29.5),P = 0.001].During treatment,63 patients(50.8%) had at least one severe adverse event(SAE) of grade 3 or 4.A multivariate analysis identified two factors associated with SAEs:female gender [OR = 2.4(1.1,5.6),P = 0.037] and a platelet count below 150 × 103/ mm3 [OR = 5.3(2.3,12.4),P ≤ 0.001].CONCLUSION:More than half of these difficult-to-treat patients achieved an SVR and had SAEs in an actual practice setting.The SVR rate was influenced by the response to previous PR treatment,the RVR and liver stiffness.
文摘Objective:Hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC)is one of the leading causes of liver cancer worldwide.In Malaysia,liver cancer is one of the main cancers detected in the population with an annual mortality rate of 6.1%in 2013.Hepatitis C virus(HCV)infection is one of the causes attributed to the incidence of HCC.HCV infection remains a major concern in Malaysia as many people are unaware of their infection status.With the accessibility and effectiveness of Direct Acting Agents(DAAs).
文摘Virus-specific immune responses have a major impact on the outcome of the infection. Viral agents that are characterized by latency, such as herpesviruses and polyomaviruses, require a continuous immune control to reduce the extent of viral reactivation, as viral clearance cannot be accomplished, independently from the anti-viral treatment. In transplant patients, morbidity and mortality related to viral infections are significantly increased. In fact, the key steps of activation of T-cells are major target for anti-rejection immunosuppressive therapy and anti-viral immune response may be altered when infected cells and cellular effectors of immune response coexist in a transplanted organ. The role of cellular immune response in controlling viral replication and the main methods employed for its evaluation will be discussed. In particular, the main features, including both advantages and limitations, of available assays, including intracellular cytokine staining, major histocompatibility complex- multimer-based assays, Elispot assay, and Quanti FERON test, will be described. The potential applications of these assays in the transplant context will be discussed, particularly in relation to cytomegalovirus and polyomavirus BK infection. The relevance of introducing viro-immunological monitoring, beside virological monitoring, in order to identify the risk profile for viral infections in the transplant patients will allows for define a patient-tailored clinical management, particular in terms of modulation of immunosuppressive therapy and anti-viral administration.
文摘TORCH complex, one of the potential infections that may occur during pregnancy, may contribute also to prenatal pregnant women’s anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to explore the presence of psychiatric symptoms, in relation with infection of TORCH agents, specifically the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV). The study was conducted on 58 pregnant women recruited from the Clinical Virology Unit, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, P.O. “Gaspare Rodolico”, from September 2012 to March 2014. Psychiatric symptoms were evaluated through the Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90 R) in pregnant women with CMV or T. gondii infection. Moreover, pregnant women were invited to participate in a program of “Counseling about behavioral change”, an effective psychotherapeutic training for the development of new motivational strategies to the infection acceptance, the greater self-confidence and greater adherence to treatment. The age of the subjects was positively correlated with Depression (r = 0.119, p ? 0.178, p ? 0.231, r = ? 0.320, p ? 0.208, p ? 0.105, p ? 0.236, p < 0.05). Finally, we can notice an improvement of the variables Anxiety and Somatization in the whole sample after the attendance at the counseling psychotherapic program. Our study suggests the presence of anxiety and somatization in pregnant women with infection, expression of a phase of emotional fragility with the concern of transmitting a serious disease in the unborn child. The program “Counseling about behavioral change” allowed us to create an atmosphere of trust and to understand the usefulness of “empathic listening”. Giving correct and accurate information about the disease reassures the patient and prevents the realization of negative thoughts and further concern and discomfort.
文摘Hepatitis C virus(HCV)is still one of the main causes of liver disease worldwide.Metabolic disorders,including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),induced by HCV have been shown to accelerate the progression of fibrosis to cirrhosis and to increase the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.An optimal peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha(PPARGC1A)activity is crucial to prevent NAFLD installation.The present study aims to investigate the associations between two common PPARGC1A polymorphisms(rs8192678 and rs12640088)and the outcomes of HCV infection in a North African context.A series of 592 consecutive Moroccan subjects,including 292 patients with chronic hepatitis C(CHC),100 resolvers and 200 healthy controls were genotyped using a TaqMan allelic discrimination assay.PPARGC1A variations at rs8192678 and rs12640088 were not associated with spontaneous clearance of HCV infection(adjusted ORs=0.76 and 0.79 respectively,P[0.05,for both).Furthermore,multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that both SNPs were not associated with fibrosis progression(OR=0.71;95%CI 0.20–2.49;P=0.739;OR=1.28;95%CI 0.25–6.54;P=0.512,respectively).We conclude that,in the genetic context of South Mediterranean patients,rs8192678 and rs12640088 polymorphisms of PPARGC1 A are neither associated with spontaneous clearance nor with disease progression in individuals infected with HCV.
文摘Clinical manifestations of human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) have not been clearly defined, and the role of HHV-6 in human disease among infants and children in Kuwait remains to be fully elucidated. A retrospective study covering the period between 2008 and 2014 was conducted on infants and children aged from 1 month to 5 years. Blood and CSF samples from infants and children who presented with symptoms suggestive HHV-6 infection were subjected to PCR test for HHV-6. Results showed that 9.3% (n = 42) of infants and children were positive for HHV-6. Fever was the most noticeable symptoms, presenting in 50% (n = 21) of the patients. Also, neutropenia was highly associated with HHV-6 infection, where it presented in 35.8% (n = 15) of infants and children. Our results provided important information about the clinical outcome of HHV-6 infection among infants and children in Kuwait.
文摘<b>Objective:</b> Evaluation antiviral effects of <i>Withania somnifera</i> (Ashwagandha) leaf extract against HCV. <b>Methods:</b> cell proliferation was assessed using MTT assay after isolation of lymphocyte cells and treated with Ashwagandha water extract (ASH-WX) (6.25 mg/ml - 100 mg/ml). Assessment of quantitative Real-time PCR, Colony forming assay, TNF-<i>α</i> and molecular docking studies after infection of normal lymphocyte cells with 1 ml (1.5 × 10<sup>6</sup> HCV) serum then incubated with ASH-WX at concentration 25 mg/ml & 50 mg/ml. <b>Results:</b> MTT assay revealed a significant increase (p < 0.001) in normal lymphocyte proliferation at all concentration’s particularity at 25 mg/ml with SI (6.06) and at 50 mg/ml with (5.8). While TNF-<i>α</i> significantly decreased following ASH-WX treatment compared with control untreated infected cells (p < 0.05). PCR results showed a marked viral load reduction after treatment by ASH-WX at concentration 25 mg/ml to 6.241 × 10<sup>3</sup> IU/mL. Colony formation assay test revealed colony formation reduction compared to positive untreated control. Molecular docking analysis revealed good prediction of binding between Ashwagandha and NS5B and PKN2 compared to Sovaldi. <b>Conclusion: </b> ASH-WX may be a powerful antiviral against HCV infection.
文摘Vaginal carriage of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a maternal and child health issue. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of GBS carriage;identify the factors associated with this carriage and determine the antibiotic sensitivity of the isolated strains. We conducted a cross-sectional and prospective study in rural Senegal (in the health district of Sokone). Socio-demographic, clinical and gynaeco-obstetrical data were collected. Vaginal swabs were taken by the midwives on specific settings in order to test for GBS and other High Risk Vaginal Bacteria (HRVB). Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done according to the recommendations of the CA SFM/EUCAST 2020. In total, 100 pregnant women were targeted and 97 pregnant women were included. Their age ranged from 18 to 40 years with 64.9% (63/97) of participants belonging to the “20 - 30” age group. The overall prevalence of Group B Streptococcus carriage was 15.5% (15/97). However, the proportion of women with at least one high risk infectious bacteria was 29.89% (29/97). No statistically significant differences were found between GBS carriage and the potential factors studied. However, the study also looked for the presence of other high-risk bacteria and coinfections were indeed found between GBS and E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotic susceptibility testing shows that GBS strains were fully susceptible to penicillin G, erythromycin, clindamycin, chloramphenicol, rifampicin and vancomycin. Sensitivities to norfloxacin and gentamycin were 73.3% and 86.7% respectively. In contrast, high resistance to tetracycline (86.7%) was observed. GBS carriage remains a major public health issue because of its consequences for the mother and the newborn. Correct screening and proper monitoring of strain susceptibility remain one of the most effective means of patient management and care.
文摘Background:Encephalitis is a serious neurological syndrome that can be caused by various infectious agents,particularly in immunocompromised in-dividuals.Among these agents,viruses from the Herpesviridaefamily play a major role,although their diagnosis is often underestimated and their involve-ment remains poorly understood,particularly in developing countries such as those in West Africa.Aim:This cross-sectional,descriptive,multicenter study was conducted in hospitals in two regions of Côte d’Ivoire,namely Abidjan and Bouaké,between March 2024 and April 2025 to assess the prevalence of herpesviruses.Methods:CSF samples were collected from patients aged≥15 years who presented with clinical signs of encephalitis and were subjected to molecular analysis.Viral DNA extraction and PCR tests were used to detect Herpessimplexvirus1 and 2(HSV 1/2),Varicella-Zostervirus(VZV),Ep-stein-Barrvirus(EBV),Cytomegalovirus(CMV),and Humanherpesvirus6(HHV6).Clinical data and molecular analysis results were recorded using Ex-cel software,and statistical analysis was performed using RStudio 4.2.1 soft-ware.Results are presented as mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables and as percentages for qualitative variables.Results:A total of 388 patients were included in this study(222 women and 166 men;age range 15-79 years;mean age 45.36±13.55 years),and 60(15.46%)were positive for one or more herpesvirus.Epstein-Barrvirus was most frequently detected in 33(55.00%)of positive cases,followed byCytomegaloviruswith 20(33.33%)and Varicella-Zostervirusand Humanherpesvirus6 with respective rates of 20.00%(12)for VZV and 11.67%(07)for HHV6.A singleHerpessimplexvirus(1.67%)was detected.Among the patients with a positive PCR,10(16.67%)were co-infected with herpesviruses.All co-infected patients were HIV sero-positive.The chi-square test showed a significant association between HIV in-fection status and the molecular detection of herpesvirus in patients with en-cephalitis(OR 3.9;95%CI:[1.4-9.3];P<0.0015).Conclusion:Herpesviruses are a significant cause of encephalitis,particularly in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients.In our study,EBV and CMV were the most common.Therefore,the rapid identification of these viruses in the CSF and the initiation of appropriate antiviral treatment are essential to reduce mor-tality and improve the management of patients with encephalitis.Further-more,the development of new antiviral molecules,optimization of therapeu-tic strategies,and improvement of diagnostic techniques would provide pro-spects for better control of these infections.
基金supported Ministry of Health PNRR(funding issued according to“Missione 6/componente 2/Investimento:2.1-Rafforzamento e potenziamento della ricerca biomedica del SSN”,funding by NextGenerationEU/H53C22001150001 to BG)PNRR-POC-2022-12376580:“Analyses of HPV and host body fluid biomarkers as non-invasive strategy for detection of head and neck cancer relapse”.
文摘Dear Editor,Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC)is the sixth most common cancer worldwide,with a constantly growing incidence.HNSCC comprises a group of heterogeneous tumors that originate from the upper digestive region.Tobacco,alcohol abuse,and human papillomaviruses(HPV)infection are the major etiologic agents for HNSCC.Local relapse and metastasis are major causes of mortality,accounting for 50%of cases.
