Pathogens

18 pages, 4420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Detection of Vaccine Virus and Protection of a Modified Live, Intranasal, Trivalent Vaccine in Neonatal, Colostrum-Fed Calves with an Experimental Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus Challenge

by Stephanie Perkins-Oines, Nirosh D. Senevirathne, Greta M. Krafsur, Karim Abdelsalam, David Renter, Brent Meyer and Christopher C. L. Chase

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060517 (registering DOI) - 19 Jun 2024

Abstract

The efficacy of an intranasal (IN) bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) vaccine administered in the presence of passive immunity was assessed. Pooled colostrum was administered by intubation to 50 beef-dairy crossbred calves the day they were born. The calves were transported to a [...] Read more.

The efficacy of an intranasal (IN) bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) vaccine administered in the presence of passive immunity was assessed. Pooled colostrum was administered by intubation to 50 beef-dairy crossbred calves the day they were born. The calves were transported to a research facility and were blocked by age and sex, and randomly assigned into two groups: sham-vaccinated intranasally with a placebo (sterile water) or vaccinated with a trivalent (BRSV, bovine herpesvirus 1 and bovine parainfluenza 3) modified live viral (MLV) vaccine. The calves were 9 ± 2 days old when vaccinated (day 0). The calves were challenged by aerosolized BRSV on days 80 and 81 as a respiratory challenge. The study was terminated on day 88. Lung lesion scores (LLS) were significantly lower for calves vaccinated with trivalent MLV vaccine than those for calves that were sham-vaccinated. Serum neutralization (SN) antibody against BRSV in calves vaccinated with the trivalent MLV vaccine demonstrated an anamnestic response on day 88. After challenge, the calves sham-vaccinated with the placebo lost weight, while those vaccinated with the trivalent MLV vaccine gained weight. In this study, colostrum-derived antibodies did not interfere with the immune response or protection provided by one dose of the trivalent MLV vaccine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vaccines and Therapeutic Developments)

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15 pages, 461 KiB

Open AccessReview

Genetic Diversity of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus for a Global Scenario: A Comprehensive Review

by Muthu Sankar, Binod Kumar, Haranahally Vasanthachar Manjunathachar, Balasamudram Chandrasekhar Parthasarathi, Abhijit Nandi, Chemmangat Kunnath Subramanian Neethu, Gaurav Nagar and Srikant Ghosh

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060516 (registering DOI) - 18 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Rhipicephalus microplus poses a substantial threat to livestock health and agricultural economies worldwide. Its remarkable adaptability to diverse environments and hosts is a testament to its extensive genetic diversity. This review delves into the genetic diversity of R. microplus, employing three pivotal [...] Read more.

Rhipicephalus microplus poses a substantial threat to livestock health and agricultural economies worldwide. Its remarkable adaptability to diverse environments and hosts is a testament to its extensive genetic diversity. This review delves into the genetic diversity of R. microplus, employing three pivotal genetic markers: the cytochrome c oxidase I (COX1) gene, ribosomal genes, and microsatellites. The COX1 gene, a crucial tool for genetic characterization and phylogenetic clustering, provides insights into the adaptability of ticks. Ribosomal genes, such as internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS-1 and2) as well as 18S and 28S, are routinely utilized for species differentiation. However, their use is limited due to indels (insertions and deletions). Microsatellites and minisatellites, known for their high polymorphism, have been successfully employed to study populations and genetic diversity across various tick species. Despite their effectiveness, challenges such as null alleles and marker variations warrant careful consideration. Bm86, a well-studied vaccine candidate, exhibits substantial genetic diversity. This diversity directly influences vaccine efficacy, posing challenges for developing a universally effective Bm86-based vaccine. Moreover, the review emphasizes the prevalence of genes associated with synthetic pyrethroid resistance. Identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms in the acaricide-resistant genes of R. microplus has facilitated the development of molecular markers for detecting and monitoring resistance against synthetic pyrethroids. However, mutations in sodium channels, the target site for synthetic pyrethroid, correlate well with the resistance status of R. microplus, which is not the case with other acaricide target genes. This study underscores the importance of understanding genetic diversity in developing effective tick management strategies. The choice of genetic marker should be tailored based on the level of taxonomic resolution and the group of ticks under investigation. A holistic approach combining multiple markers and integrating additional molecular and morphological data may offer a more comprehensive understanding of tick diversity and relationships. This research has far-reaching implications in formulating breeding programs and the development of vaccine against ticks and tick-borne diseases (TTBDs) as well as strategies for the management of resistant ticks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ticks)

19 pages, 4251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Subclinical Ovine Gammaherpesvirus 2-Related Infections in Free-Ranging Wild Boars (Sus scrofa) from Southern Brazil

by Selwyn Arlington Headley, Juliana Torres Tomazi Fritzen, Flavia Helena Pereira Silva, Silvio Luis Marsiglio Minarelli, Leandro Meneguelli Biondo, Louise Bach Kmetiuk, Alexander Welker Biondo and Amauri Alcindo Alfieri

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060515 - 18 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvGHV2), is a Macavirus and the cause of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF), in which sheep are the asymptomatic reservoir hosts. Susceptible mammalian populations infected by OvGHV2 may develop clinical SA-MCF or subclinical infections. All members of the Macavirus genus [...] Read more.

Ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvGHV2), is a Macavirus and the cause of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF), in which sheep are the asymptomatic reservoir hosts. Susceptible mammalian populations infected by OvGHV2 may develop clinical SA-MCF or subclinical infections. All members of the Macavirus genus known to be associated with MCF are collectively referred to as the MCF virus (MCFV) complex. This report describes the occurrence of subclinical OvGHV2-related infections in free-ranging wild boars (Sus scrofa) from southern Brazil. Specific body organs (n = 14) and biological samples (nasal and oral swabs; n = 17) were collected from 24 asymptomatic wild boars from a conservation unit located within the Central-eastern mesoregion of Paraná State. Organs were processed to observe histopathological patterns suggestive of diseases of domestic animals; only pulmonary samples were used in an immunohistochemical assay designed to detect MCFV tissue antigens. Furthermore, all samples were submitted to molecular assays designed to detect the OvGHV2 tegument protein gene. Viral-induced pneumonia was diagnosed in two wild boars; one of these contained OvGHV2 DNA, with MCFV antigens identified in the other. Additionally, MCFV tissue antigens were detected within pulmonary epithelial cells of the lungs with and without pulmonary disease. Collectively, OvGHV2 was detected in 37.5% (9/24) of all wild boars, with detection occurring in the organs of 57.1% (8/14) wild boars and the oral cavity of one animal. These results demonstrated that these wild boars were subclinically infected by OvGHV2, and that infection produced typical pulmonary alterations. In addition, the detection of OvGHV2 within the oral cavity of one wild boar may suggest that this animal may be a potential disseminator of this pathogen to susceptible animal populations, including livestock and wildlife, acting as a possible bridge host for OvGHV2. Furthermore, infection by OvGHV2 probably occurred due to incidental contact with asymptomatic sheep maintained within the surrounding rural areas and not within the conservation units. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife Hosts Pathogen Interaction)

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24 pages, 6828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptive Cellular Responses following SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Primary Antibody Deficiency Patients

by Sudhir Gupta, Houfen Su, Sudhanshu Agrawal, Yesim Demirdag, Michelle Tran and Sastry Gollapudi

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060514 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 118

Abstract

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, in a short span of 3 years, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in the end of the pandemic. Patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are at an increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, serious illnesses [...] Read more.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, in a short span of 3 years, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in the end of the pandemic. Patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) are at an increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, serious illnesses and mortality, especially in primary antibody deficiencies (PADs), have been lower than expected and lower than other high-risk groups. This suggests that PAD patients may mount a reasonable effective response to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Several studies have been published regarding antibody responses, with contradictory reports. The current study is, perhaps, the most comprehensive study of phenotypically defined various lymphocyte populations in PAD patients following the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. In this study, we examined, following two vaccinations and, in a few cases, prior to and following the 1st and 2nd vaccinations, subsets of CD4 and CD8 T cells (Naïve, T_CM, T_EM, T_EMRA), T follicular helper cells (T_FH1, T_FH2, T_FH17, T_FH1/17), B cells (naïve, transitional, marginal zone, germinal center, IgM memory, switched memory, plasmablasts, CD21^low), regulatory lymphocytes (CD4Treg, CD8Treg, T_FR, Breg), and SARS-CoV-2-specific activation of CD4 T cells and CD8 T cells (CD69, CD137), SARS-CoV-2 tetramer-positive CD8 T cells, and CD8 CTL. Our data show significant alterations in various B cell subsets including Breg, whereas only a few subsets of various T cells revealed alterations. These data suggest that large proportions of PAD patients may mount significant responses to the vaccine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interactions between Pathogens and the Human Immune System)

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5 pages, 181 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Emerging and Endemic Infections in Wildlife: Epidemiology, Ecology and Management in a Changing World

by Andrew W. Byrne and Eric R. Morgan

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060513 - 18 Jun 2024

Viewed by 164

Abstract

The importance of gaining a greater understanding of the infectious diseases of wild animal populations and the impact of emerging and re-emerging pathogens has never been more sharply in focus than in the current post-COVID-19 world [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Endemic Infections in Wildlife: Epidemiology, Ecology, & Management in a Changing World)

57 pages, 3692 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prevalence of Lyme Disease and Relapsing Fever Borrelia spp. in Vectors, Animals, and Humans within a One Health Approach in Mediterranean Countries

by Myrto Koutantou, Michel Drancourt and Emmanouil Angelakis

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060512 - 17 Jun 2024

Viewed by 174

Abstract

The genus Borrelia has been divided into Borreliella spp., which can cause Lyme Disease (LD), and Borrelia spp., which can cause Relapsing Fever (RF). The distribution of genus Borrelia has broadened due to factors such as climate change, alterations in land use, and [...] Read more.

The genus Borrelia has been divided into Borreliella spp., which can cause Lyme Disease (LD), and Borrelia spp., which can cause Relapsing Fever (RF). The distribution of genus Borrelia has broadened due to factors such as climate change, alterations in land use, and enhanced human and animal mobility. Consequently, there is an increasing necessity for a One Health strategy to identify the key components in the Borrelia transmission cycle by monitoring the humananimalenvironment interactions. The aim of this study is to summarize all accessible data to increase our understanding and provide a comprehensive overview of Borrelia distribution in the Mediterranean region. Databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Google were searched to determine the presence of Borreliella and Borrelia spp. in vectors, animals, and humans in countries around the Mediterranean Sea. A total of 3026 were identified and screened and after exclusion of papers that did not fulfill the including criteria, 429 were used. After examination of the available literature, it was revealed that various species associated with LD and RF are prevalent in vectors, animals, and humans in Mediterranean countries and should be monitored in order to effectively manage and prevent potential infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Health: New Approaches, Research and Innovation to Zoonoses)

15 pages, 1515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How to Improve Surveillance Program for Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli (STEC): Gap Analysis and Pilot Study

by Valerio Massimo Sora, Francesca Zaghen and Alfonso Zecconi

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060511 - 17 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Several pathotypes of enteric E. coli have been identified. The group represented by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) is of particular interest. Raw milk and raw milk products are significant sources of STEC infection in humans; therefore, identifying pathogens at the herd level [...] Read more.

Several pathotypes of enteric E. coli have been identified. The group represented by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) is of particular interest. Raw milk and raw milk products are significant sources of STEC infection in humans; therefore, identifying pathogens at the herd level is crucial for public health. Most national surveillance programs focus solely on raw milk and raw milk cheeses that are ready for retail sale, neglecting the possibility of evaluating the source of contamination directly at the beginning of the dairy chain. To assess the viability of the application of new molecular methodologies to STEC identification in raw milk filters and in calf feces, we analyzed 290 samples from 18 different dairy herds, including 88 bulk tank milk (BTM), 104 raw milk filters (RMF), and 98 calf feces samples. In total 3.4% of BTM, 41.4% of RMF, and 73.4% of calves’ feces were positive for stx, supporting our hypothesis that BTM is not a suitable matrix to assess the presence of STEC at herd level, underestimating it. Our conclusion is that the surveillance program needs critical and extensive improvements such as RMF and calves’ feces analysis implementation to be more efficient in detecting and preventing STEC infections. The epidemiology of these infections and the characteristics of the pathogen clearly show how a One Health approach will be pivotal in improving our capabilities to control the spread of these infections. Full article

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12 pages, 1504 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Gene Expression in the Upper Respiratory Tract following Acute COVID-19 Infection in Ambulatory Patients That Develop Long COVID

by Mia J. Biondi, Mary Addo, Muhammad Atif Zahoor, Elsa Salvant, Paul Yip, Bethany Barber, David Smookler, Sumaiyah Wasif, Kayla Gaete, Christopher Kandel, Jordan J. Feld, Hubert Tsui and Robert A. Kozak

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060510 - 17 Jun 2024

Viewed by 403

Abstract

Background: Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, or long COVID, is a condition characterized by persistent COVID-19 symptoms. As long COVID is defined by clinical criteria after an elapsed period, an opportunity for early intervention may aid in future prophylactic approaches; however, at present, the [...] Read more.

Background: Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, or long COVID, is a condition characterized by persistent COVID-19 symptoms. As long COVID is defined by clinical criteria after an elapsed period, an opportunity for early intervention may aid in future prophylactic approaches; however, at present, the pathobiological mechanisms are multifactorial. By analyzing early virally infected upper respiratory tract tissue prior to eventual clinical diagnosis, it may be possible to identify biomarkers of altered immune response to facilitate future studies and interventions. Methods: This is a sub-group analysis of samples collected from those with confirmed COVID-19. RNA extraction from nasopharyngeal/mid-turbinate samples, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis were performed to analyze long COVID and non-long COVID cohorts at day 14 post infection. Differences in mean viral load at various timepoints were analyzed as well as serological data. Results: We identified 26 upregulated genes in patients experiencing long COVID. Dysregulated pathways including complement and fibrinolysis pathways and IL-7 upregulation. Additionally, genes involved in neurotransmission were dysregulated, and the long COVID group had a significantly higher viral load and slower viral clearance. Conclusions: Uncovering early gene pathway abnormalities associated with eventual long COVID diagnosis may aid in early identification. We show that, post acute infection, in situ pathogenic deviations in viral response are associated with patients destined to meet consensus long COVID diagnosis that is entirely dependent on clinical factors. These results identify an important biological temporal window in the natural history of COVID-19 infection and long COVID pathogenesis amenable to testing from standard-of-care upper respiratory tract specimens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)

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12 pages, 830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Artemisia cina Ethyl Acetate Extract’s Anthelmintic Effect on Haemonchus contortus Eggs and L₃ Larvae: The Synergism of Peruvin Binary Mixtures

by Luis David Arango-De-la Pava, Manasés González-Cortazar, Alejandro Zamilpa, Jorge Alfredo Cuéllar-Ordaz, Héctor Alejandro de la Cruz-Cruz, Rosa Isabel Higuera-Piedrahita and Raquel López-Arellano

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060509 - 16 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Haemonchus contortus, a blood-feeding parasite in grazing sheep, causes economic losses. Drug resistance necessitates exploring plant-based anthelmintics like Artemisia cina (Asteraceae). The plant, particularly its ethyl acetate extract, shows anthelmintic activity against H. contortus. However, there is limited information on pharmacodynamic [...] Read more.

Haemonchus contortus, a blood-feeding parasite in grazing sheep, causes economic losses. Drug resistance necessitates exploring plant-based anthelmintics like Artemisia cina (Asteraceae). The plant, particularly its ethyl acetate extract, shows anthelmintic activity against H. contortus. However, there is limited information on pharmacodynamic interactions in ethyl acetate compounds. The study aims to identify pharmacodynamic interactions in the ethyl acetate extract of A. cina with anthelmintic effects on H. contortus eggs and L₃ larvae using binary mixtures. Bioactive compounds were isolated via chromatography and identified using spectroscopic techniques. Pharmacodynamic interactions were assessed through binary mixtures with a main compound. Four bioactive compounds were identified: 1-nonacosanol, hentriacontane, peruvin, and cinic acid. Binary mixtures, with peruvin as the main compound, were performed. Peruvin/1-nonacosanol-hentriacontane and peruvin/cinic acid mixtures demonstrated 1.42-fold and 4.87-fold increased lethal effects in H. contortus L₃ infective larvae, respectively, at a 0.50LC₂₅/0.50LC₂₅ concentration. In this work, we determined the synergism between bioactive compounds isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of A. cina and identified unreported compounds for the specie. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parasites and Parasitic Diseases in the Livestock Industry in Latin America)

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11 pages, 358 KiB

Open AccessReview

Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents in Prevention of Maternal–Fetal Transmission of Hepatitis C Virus in Pregnancy

by Christopher Hartley, Trung Van and Wikrom Karnsakul

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060508 - 16 Jun 2024

Viewed by 399

Abstract

Prior to the Food and Drug Administration approval of ledipaspavir/sofosbuvir (Harvoni^®) in 2014, the treatment of hepatitis C was interferon plus or minus ribavirin. This treatment had low cure rates for hepatitis C virus and was teratogenic and therefore avoided in [...] Read more.

Prior to the Food and Drug Administration approval of ledipaspavir/sofosbuvir (Harvoni^®) in 2014, the treatment of hepatitis C was interferon plus or minus ribavirin. This treatment had low cure rates for hepatitis C virus and was teratogenic and therefore avoided in pregnant patients. Vertical transmission is the most common transmission of hepatitis C in pediatric patients, whereas medical equipment that was not properly cleaned and sterilized, blood products which were not checked (historically), sharing and reusing syringes and needles, and dialysis are the most common forms of hepatitis C transmission in adults. The treatment of pregnant women with direct-acting antivirals is important because the treatment of pediatric patients cannot begin until three years of age and does not always occur prior to the symptom development of hepatitis C. This review article will include glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (Mayvret^®), sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (Epclusa^®), and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir plus voxilaprevir (Vosevi^®). We aim to review the teratogenic risk of direct-acting antivirals as well as currently published clinical trials and ongoing research on direct-acting antiviral hepatitis C treatment in pregnancy in this publication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)

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6 pages, 227 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Complete Genome Sequence of a Klebsiella pneumoniae Strain Carrying Novel Variant bla_KPC-203, Cross-Resistant to Ceftazidime/Avibactam and Cefiderocol, but Susceptible to Carbapenems, Isolated in Italy, 2023

by Stefano Amadesi, Gabriele Bianco, Benedetta Secci, Teresa Fasciana, Matteo Boattini, Cristina Costa and Paolo Gaibani

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060507 - 15 Jun 2024

Viewed by 245

Abstract

Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a concerning pathogen, responsible for hospital-associated outbreaks. Multi drug resistant (MDR) strains are especially hard to treat. We conducted whole-genome sequencing on a MDR K. pneumoniae strain in order to identify genomic features potentially linked to its phenotype. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae is a concerning pathogen, responsible for hospital-associated outbreaks. Multi drug resistant (MDR) strains are especially hard to treat. We conducted whole-genome sequencing on a MDR K. pneumoniae strain in order to identify genomic features potentially linked to its phenotype. Methods: DNA sequencing was performed on the Illumina iSeq 100 platform. Genome assembly was carried out with SPAdes. The genome was annotated with RASTtk. Typing was performed with MLST and Kaptive. Antibiotic resistance genes were detected with AMRFinderPlus and Abricate, and further verified with BLAST. Results: The strain exhibited resistance to ceftazidime/avibactam and cefiderocol, but remained susceptible to carbapenems. The strain belonged to sequence type ST101, serotype O1:K17. The analysis of antibiotic resistance genes indicated that the strain carried a novel KPC variant, designated as KPC-203, featuring a EL deletion at amino acid position 166–167, within the Ω-loop, and a nine-amino-acid insertion (LAVYTRAPM) at position 259. Sequence alterations were found in porin genes ompK35 and ompK36. Unlike molecular testing, which was able to detect the KPC-203 variant, all phenotypic carbapenemase detection methods achieved negative results. Conclusions: KPC-203, a novel KPC variant, showed a sequence modification in a cephalosporin resistance-associated hotspot. Interestingly, such alterations typically correlate with the restoration of carbapenem susceptibility. We hypothesize that KPC-203 likely led to resistance to ceftazidime/avibactam and cefiderocol, while maintaining susceptibility to carbapenems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Emerging Pathogens)

10 pages, 557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination and Infection on Humoral and Cellular Immunity in a Cohort of Patients with Immune-Mediated Diseases: A Pilot Study

by Giulia Anna Maria Luigia Costanzo, Giuseppina Sanna, Francesco Pes, Carla Maria Deiana, Andrea Giovanni Ledda, Andrea Perra, Vanessa Palmas, Valeria Manca, Michela Miglianti, Ferdinando Coghe, Aldo Manzin, Stefano Del Giacco, Luchino Chessa and Davide Firinu

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060506 - 14 Jun 2024

Viewed by 361

Abstract

Immunization against COVID-19 is needed in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). However, data on long-term immunity kinetics remain scarce. This study aimed to compare the humoral and cellular response to COVID-19 in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) compared to healthy controls. [...] Read more.

Immunization against COVID-19 is needed in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). However, data on long-term immunity kinetics remain scarce. This study aimed to compare the humoral and cellular response to COVID-19 in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) compared to healthy controls. We compared the humoral and cellular response to SARS-Cov-2 elicited by vaccination and/or infection in a prospective cohort of 20 IMID patients compared with a group of 21 healthcare workers (HCWs). We assessed immunity before and after the third and fourth dose of BNT162b2 or after COVID-19 infection using quantitative IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike antibody (anti-S-IgG), neutralization assay, and specific interferon-gamma (IFN-g) release assay (IGRA). The responses were compared with those of healthy controls. The two groups were similar in age and total exposure, becoming infected for the first time, mainly after the third dose. Neutralizing antibodies and IGRA were negative in 9.5% of IMID patients but not in any HCWs. No significant difference was found between neutralization titers to BA.1 in the IMID and the HCW groups. The study highlights the SARS-CoV-2 immunological responses in healthy controls and IMID patients, suggesting that the combined stimuli of vaccination and infection in IMID patients could promote a more profound immunological response. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Viral Pathogenesis, Host Immune Responses and Immunotherapies)

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14 pages, 1497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Simulation Study to Reveal the Epidemiology and Aerosol Transmission Characteristics of Botrytis cinerea in Grape Greenhouses

by Lifang Yuan, Hang Jiang, Tinggang Li, Qibao Liu, Xilong Jiang, Xing Han, Yanfeng Wei, Xiangtian Yin and Suna Wang

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060505 - 13 Jun 2024

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Abstract

Most previously studies had considered that plant fungal disease spread widely and quickly by airborne fungi spore. However, little is known about the release dynamics, aerodynamic diameter, and pathogenicity threshold of fungi spore in air of the greenhouse environment. Grape gray mold is [...] Read more.

Most previously studies had considered that plant fungal disease spread widely and quickly by airborne fungi spore. However, little is known about the release dynamics, aerodynamic diameter, and pathogenicity threshold of fungi spore in air of the greenhouse environment. Grape gray mold is caused by Botrytis cinerea; the disease spreads in greenhouses by spores in the air and the spore attaches to the leaf and infects plant through the orifice. In this study, 120 μmol/L propidium monoazide (PMA) were suitable for treatment and quantitation viable spore by quantitative real-time PCR, with a limit detection of 8 spores/mL in spore suspension. In total, 93 strains of B. cinerea with high pathogenicity were isolated and identified from the air samples of grapevines greenhouses by a portable sampler. The particle size of B. cinerea aerosol ranged predominately from 0.65–3.3 μm, accounting for 71.77% of the total amount. The B. cinerea spore aerosols were infective to healthy grape plants, with the lowest concentration that could cause disease being 42 spores/m³. Botrytis cinerea spores collected form six greenhouse in Shandong Province were quantified by PMA-qPCR, with a higher concentration (1182.89 spores/m³) in May and June and a lower concentration in July and August (6.30 spores/m³). This study suggested that spore dispersal in aerosol is an important route for the epidemiology of plant fungal disease, and these data will contribute to the development of new strategies for the effective alleviation and control of plant diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fungal Pathogenicity Factors: 2nd Edition)

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8 pages, 1219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Cryptic Virus Isolated from Galphimia spp. in Mexico

by Dianella Iglesias, Kristian Stevens, Ashutosh Sharma and Alfredo Diaz-Lara

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060504 - 13 Jun 2024

Viewed by 268

Abstract

Galphimia spp. is a plant employed in traditional medicine in Mexico because of its anxiolytic and sedative effects. Viruses have been associated with different alterations in plants, although asymptomatic agents (i.e., cryptic viruses) are also known. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) allows for the detection [...] Read more.

Galphimia spp. is a plant employed in traditional medicine in Mexico because of its anxiolytic and sedative effects. Viruses have been associated with different alterations in plants, although asymptomatic agents (i.e., cryptic viruses) are also known. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) allows for the detection of pathogenic and non-pathogenic viral agents in plants, including potential novel viruses. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of viral agents in two populations of Galphimia spp. by HTS. Sequencing was conducted on an Illumina NextSeq 550 platform, and a putative novel virus was identified. Two contigs showed homology to partitiviruses, and these encoded the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and coat protein. These proteins showed the highest identities with orthologs in the recently discovered Vitis cryptic virus. A phylogenetic analysis of both RNAs showed that the new virus clusters into the monophyletic genus Deltapartitivirus along with other plant-infecting viruses. The result of the HTS analysis was validated by conventional RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing. A novel virus was discovered in a symptomless Galphimia spp. plant and tentatively named the Galphimia cryptic virus (GCV). This is the first virus discovered in medicinal plants in Mexico. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)

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15 pages, 1296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Summary of Safety Data on Nirsevimab in Infants and Children from All Pivotal Randomized Clinical Trials

by Vaishali S. Mankad, Amanda Leach, Yue Chang, Ulrika Wählby Hamrén, Alexandre Kiazand, Robert J. Kubiak, Therese Takas, Tonya Villafana and Manish Shroff

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060503 - 13 Jun 2024

Viewed by 507

Abstract

Background: Nirsevimab is approved in the US for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in neonates and infants during their first RSV season and in children aged ≤24 months who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their [...] Read more.

Background: Nirsevimab is approved in the US for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in neonates and infants during their first RSV season and in children aged ≤24 months who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. We summarize a pre-specified analysis of nirsevimab safety data from three randomized controlled trials: Phase 2b (NCT02878330; healthy infants born ≥29 to <35 weeks’ gestational age [wGA]); Phase 3 MELODY (NCT03979313; healthy infants born ≥35 wGA); and Phase 2/3 MEDLEY (NCT03959488; infants with congenital heart disease [CHD] and/or chronic lung disease of prematurity [CLD] or born ≤35 wGA). Methods: Participants (randomized 2:1) received a single intramuscular dose of nirsevimab or comparator (placebo, Phase 2b/MELODY; 5× once-monthly palivizumab, MEDLEY) before their first RSV season (recipients < 5 kg, nirsevimab 50 mg; ≥5 kg, nirsevimab 100 mg). In MEDLEY, children with CHD/CLD continued to a second RSV season: first-season nirsevimab recipients received nirsevimab 200 mg; first-season palivizumab recipients were re-randomized 1:1 to receive nirsevimab 200 mg or 5× once-monthly palivizumab. Results: The incidence, severity, and nature of AEs were similar across treatments (nirsevimab, n = 3184; placebo, n = 1284; palivizumab, n = 304). Most AEs were mild to moderate in severity, with ≥98% unrelated to treatment. AEs of special interest occurred infrequently (<1%): no anaphylaxis or thrombocytopenia were treatment-related, and no immune complex disease was reported. Deaths (incidence < 1.0%) were all unrelated to treatment. Conclusions: A single dose per season of nirsevimab for the prevention of RSV disease had a favorable safety profile, irrespective of wGA or comorbidities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Pediatric Infectious Diseases)

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1 pages, 138 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Luo et al. Role of Recognition MicroRNAs in Hemaphysalis longicornis and Theileria orientalis Interactions. Pathogens 2024, 13, 288

by Jin Luo, Yangchun Tan, Shuaiyang Zhao, Qiaoyun Ren, Guiquan Guan, Jianxun Luo, Hong Yin and Guangyuan Liu

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060502 - 13 Jun 2024

Viewed by 137

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

13 pages, 1980 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Control of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Tourist Facilities across the Canary Islands, Spain

by Antonio Doménech-Sánchez, Elena Laso and Sebastián Albertí

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060501 - 12 Jun 2024

Viewed by 336

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common pathogen associated with recreational water facilities and poses risks to public health. However, data on the prevalence of P. aeruginosa in tourist destinations like the Canary Islands, Spain, remain limited. We assessed P. aeruginosa prevalence in 23 tourist [...] Read more.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common pathogen associated with recreational water facilities and poses risks to public health. However, data on the prevalence of P. aeruginosa in tourist destinations like the Canary Islands, Spain, remain limited. We assessed P. aeruginosa prevalence in 23 tourist facilities from 2016 to 2019. Compliance with water quality standards was evaluated, and 3962 samples were collected and analyzed. We examined different types of recreational water installations, including outer swimming pools, whirlpools, and cold wells. Of the sampled facilities, 31.2% did not comply with the current legislation’s parametric values, mainly due to inadequate disinfectant levels, water temperature, and P. aeruginosa presence. The prevalence of P. aeruginosa was 4.8%, comparable to some European countries but lower than others. Cold wells displayed the highest non-compliance rate (89.2%) and yet exhibited a lower P. aeruginosa prevalence (1.9%) than outer swimming pools and whirlpools. Children’s presence did not significantly impact P. aeruginosa contamination. Chlorine-based disinfectants are more effective than bromine-based ones in controlling P. aeruginosa. Regional variability in contamination was observed, with Fuerteventura showing lower colonization rates. Disinfectant levels play a critical role in P. aeruginosa control, and maintaining adequate levels is essential, particularly in bromine-treated installations. Our findings provide valuable insights into the prevalence and distribution of P. aeruginosa in recreational waters within tourist facilities. Tailored strategies are needed to ensure water safety in different Spanish regions. Continued monitoring and assessment, combined with artificial intelligence and machine learning, will enable the implementation of targeted interventions to protect the health of recreational water users. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)

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31 pages, 4290 KiB

Open AccessReview

Brief Insights into mRNA Vaccines: Their Successful Production and Nanoformulation for Effective Response against COVID-19 and Their Potential Success for Influenza A and B

by Amerah Parveen and Amal Ali Elkordy

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060500 - 12 Jun 2024

Viewed by 469

Abstract

A mRNA vaccine is a type of vaccine that induces an immune response. Antigen-encoding mRNA is delivered via vaccine carriers into the immune cells, which are produced because of antigen-encoding mRNA translation, a protein. For example, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines produce the spike protein [...] Read more.

A mRNA vaccine is a type of vaccine that induces an immune response. Antigen-encoding mRNA is delivered via vaccine carriers into the immune cells, which are produced because of antigen-encoding mRNA translation, a protein. For example, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines produce the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus, whereas for influenza virus, mRNA vaccines target the haemagglutinin protein to treat the flu, and it requires modifications depending on the pandemic or seasonal viruses as it is capable of adapting the immune response, which makes the development of vaccines arduous. The protein molecule promotes an adaptive immune response that eliminates and terminates the corresponding virus or pathogen. There are many challenges to delivering an mRNA vaccine into the body; hence, the encapsulation of the mRNA (usually within lipid nanoparticles) is necessary to protect the mRNA from the body’s surrounding environment. In this review article, we focus mainly on the production, formulation, and stabilization of mRNA vaccines in general, elaborating more on and focusing more on SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, and influenza viruses, which have become a major concern as these viruses have turned into life-threatening diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Influenza A and Influenza B Viruses)

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15 pages, 1364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr Virus, Herpes Simplex Virus, and Varicella Zoster Virus Infection Dynamics in People with Multiple Sclerosis from Northern Italy

by Peter A. Maple, Radu Tanasescu, Cris S. Constantinescu, Paola Valentino, Marco Capobianco, Silvia D’Orso, Giovanna Borsellino, Luca Battistini, Giovanni Ristori, Rosella Mechelli, Marco Salvetti and Bruno Gran

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 499; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060499 - 12 Jun 2024

Viewed by 410

Abstract

Previous exposure to Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is strongly associated with the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). By contrast, past cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection may have no association, or be negatively associated with MS. This study aimed to investigate the associations of herpesvirus infections with [...] Read more.

Previous exposure to Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is strongly associated with the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). By contrast, past cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection may have no association, or be negatively associated with MS. This study aimed to investigate the associations of herpesvirus infections with MS in an Italian population. Serum samples (n = 200) from Italian people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) classified as the relapsing-and-remitting clinical phenotype and (n = 137) healthy controls (HCs) were obtained from the CRESM Biobank, Orbassano, Italy. Both PwMS and HCs samples were selected according to age group (20–39 years, and 40 or more years) and sex. EBV virus capsid antigen (VCA) IgG, EBV nucleic acid-1 antigen (EBNA-1) IgG, CMV IgG, herpes simplex virus (HSV) IgG, and varicella zoster virus (VZV) IgG testing was undertaken using commercial ELISAs. EBV VCA IgG and EBNA-1 IgG seroprevalences were 100% in PwMS and 93.4% and 92.4%, respectively, in HCs. EBV VCA IgG and EBNA-1 IgG levels were higher (p < 0.001) in PwMS compared with HCs. For PwMS, the EBNA-1 IgG levels decreased with age, particularly in females. The CMV IgG seroprevalence was 58.7% in PwMS and 62.9% in HCs. CMV IgG seroprevalence increased with age. The HSV IgG seroprevalence was 71.2% in PwMS and 70.8% in HCs. HSV IgG levels were lower (p = 0.0005) in PwMS compared with HCs. VZV IgG seroprevalence was 97.5% in PwMS and 98.5% in HCs. In the population studied, several herpesvirus infections markers may have been influenced by the age and sex of the groups studied. The lack of a negative association of MS with CMV infection, and the observation of lower levels of HSV IgG in PwMS compared with HCs are findings worthy of further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Infections and Their Effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS))

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18 pages, 4633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the In Vitro Individual and Combined Effect of Arthrobotrys oligospora and A. musiformis (Orbiliales) Liquid Culture Filtrates against Infective Larvae of the Sheep Blood-Feeding Nematode Haemonchus contortus (Trichostrongylidae)

by Antonio Colinas-Picazo, Pedro Mendoza-de Gives, Gustavo Pérez-Anzúrez, Enrique Gutiérrez-Medina, Génesis Andrea Bautista-García, Edgar Jesús Delgado-Núñez and Agustín Olmedo-Juárez

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060498 - 11 Jun 2024

Viewed by 271

Abstract

Background: Arthrobotrys species are nematophagous fungi that secrete extracellular nematocidal products (ECP). The individual and combined effects of ECP from Arthrobotrys oligospora (Ao) and A. musiformis (Am) growth in liquid media against Haemonchus contortus L3 (HcL3) were assessed. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background: Arthrobotrys species are nematophagous fungi that secrete extracellular nematocidal products (ECP). The individual and combined effects of ECP from Arthrobotrys oligospora (Ao) and A. musiformis (Am) growth in liquid media against Haemonchus contortus L3 (HcL3) were assessed. Methods: The isolation, morphological (MI) and molecular identification (Mol-I), assessment of nematocidal activity (NA) of fungal liquid culture filtrates (LCF) in two liquid media alone and in combination and the myco-compound profile identification (MCP) were performed. Results: The MI suggested that the fungi corresponded to the species Ao and Am. This result was confirmed by PCR analysis followed by sequencing, alignment and a phylogenetic analysis. Likewise, the highest Hc mortalities were 91.4% with individual LCF of Am and 86.2% with those of Ao at the highest concentration (100 mg/mL) in Czapek-Dox Broth. The combination of both LCF resulted in a similarly high larval mortality with no statistical differences in relation to individual activity (p > 0.05). The MCP showed the presence of alkaloids in both fungi. Coumarins, sterols and saponins were found only in Ao. Main conclusions: Both fungi produced ECP with a high NA that could be identified and assessed in future studies as potential natural anthelmintic compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parasites and Parasitic Diseases in the Livestock Industry in Latin America)

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5 pages, 207 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

HIV-Negative MSM Infected with Two Different Isolates of Drug-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae—Case Report

by Martyna Biała, Bartosz Pencakowski, Beata Mączyńska, Konrad Starzyński and Bartosz Szetela

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060497 - 10 Jun 2024

Viewed by 408

Abstract

The antimicrobial resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) is an increasing public health concern, highlighted by the fact that gonococcus is considered as a ‘high’-priority pathogen by the WHO for research and development of new therapeutic options. According to the data of the European [...] Read more.

The antimicrobial resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) is an increasing public health concern, highlighted by the fact that gonococcus is considered as a ‘high’-priority pathogen by the WHO for research and development of new therapeutic options. According to the data of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in 2022, the rate of NG infections is the highest recorded since European surveillance of sexually transmitted infections began in 2009. We report a brief description of a patient infected with two different isolates of drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. N. gonorrhoeae cultures were positive from oropharyngeal and urethral swabs and isolates had different antimicrobial susceptibility. We investigated the antimicrobial susceptibility of these isolates to six antimicrobials (ceftriaxone, cefixime, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and benzylpenicillin), and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs; mg/L) were determined using Etest on gonococcal isolates. Oropharyngeal isolate was resistant to azithromycin while urethral was resistant to penicillin, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline. Two different and phylogenetically distinct sequence types of NG isolates were identified. Understanding the dynamics and drivers of resistance spread can provide an improved rationale for antibiotic management, and the level of NG resistance should be monitored closely. Full article

18 pages, 632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antiparasitic Evaluation of Aquiluscidin, a Cathelicidin Obtained from Crotalus aquilus, and the Vcn-23 Derivative Peptide against Babesia bovis, B. bigemina and B. ovata

by Edwin Esaú Hernández-Arvizu, Masahito Asada, Shin-Ichiro Kawazu, Carlos Agustín Vega, Angelina Rodríguez-Torres, Rodrigo Morales-García, Aldo J. Pavón-Rocha, Gloria León-Ávila, Bruno Rivas-Santiago and Juan Mosqueda

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060496 - 10 Jun 2024

Viewed by 391

Abstract

Babesiosis is a growing concern due to the increased prevalence of this infectious disease caused by Babesia protozoan parasites, affecting various animals and humans. With rising worries over medication side effects and emerging drug resistance, there is a notable shift towards researching babesiacidal [...] Read more.

Babesiosis is a growing concern due to the increased prevalence of this infectious disease caused by Babesia protozoan parasites, affecting various animals and humans. With rising worries over medication side effects and emerging drug resistance, there is a notable shift towards researching babesiacidal agents. Antimicrobial peptides, specifically cathelicidins known for their broad-spectrum activity and immunomodulatory functions, have emerged as potential candidates. Aquiluscidin, a cathelicidin from Crotalus aquilus, and its derivative Vcn-23, have been of interest due to their previously observed antibacterial effects and non-hemolytic activity. This work aimed to characterize the effect of these peptides against three Babesia species. Results showed Aquiluscidin's significant antimicrobial effects on Babesia species, reducing the B. bigemina growth rate and exhibiting IC₅₀ values of 14.48 and 20.70 μM against B. ovata and B. bovis, respectively. However, its efficacy was impacted by serum presence in culture, and it showed no inhibition against a B. bovis strain grown in serum-supplemented medium. Conversely, Vcn-23 did not demonstrate babesiacidal activity. In conclusion, Aquiluscidin shows antibabesia activity in vitro and its efficacy is affected by the presence of serum in the culture medium. Nevertheless, this peptide represents a candidate for further investigation of its antiparasitic properties and provides insights into potential alternatives for the treatment of babesiosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Tick Research)

13 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessReview

Improving Outcomes in Nosocomial Pneumonia: Recent Evidence and More Challenges

by Ihab H. Masri, Bethany Busack and Andrew F. Shorr

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060495 - 10 Jun 2024

Viewed by 451

Abstract

Nosocomial pneumonia (NP) represents a leading nosocomial infection and results in substantial morbidity and cost. Over the last several years, the evidence has evolved which directs our approach to NP. Specifically, the definition of NP and classification of its various subtypes has expanded [...] Read more.

Nosocomial pneumonia (NP) represents a leading nosocomial infection and results in substantial morbidity and cost. Over the last several years, the evidence has evolved which directs our approach to NP. Specifically, the definition of NP and classification of its various subtypes has expanded to capture nuances among various phenotypes of this syndrome. For example, segregating those with hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) based on whether they subsequently require mechanical ventilation has been shown to be important. Likewise, newer data indicate the true economic cost of NP and underscore the diverse range of pathogens that can cause NP. Moreover, multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria have become a major threat in NP. Fortunately, newer simple preventive strategies have been tested and found to be effective at reducing the incidence of NP. Should prevention fail, a range of new antibiotics have been formally studied in NP and found to be effective. Some of these novel agents have relatively broad ranges of activity and are in vitro active against select MDR organisms. Others, however, are narrower in spectrum and directed against specific problem bacteria. In short, the literature in the field of NP has progressed rapidly, and clinicians require a clear appreciation of these changes so as to improve patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nosocomial Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance)

17 pages, 547 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibiotic Resistance Profile and Bio-Control of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from Raw Milk in Vietnam Using Bacteriophages

by Hoang Minh Duc, Tran Thi Khanh Hoa, Cam Thi Thu Ha, Le Van Hung, Nguyen Van Thang, Hoang Minh Son and Gary A. Flory

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060494 - 9 Jun 2024

Viewed by 384

Abstract

E. coli is an important zoonotic pathogen capable of causing foodborne illness and bovine mastitis. Bacteriophages have been increasingly considered a promising tool to control unwanted bacteria. The aim of this study is to determine the antibiotic resistance profile of E. coli isolated [...] Read more.

E. coli is an important zoonotic pathogen capable of causing foodborne illness and bovine mastitis. Bacteriophages have been increasingly considered a promising tool to control unwanted bacteria. The aim of this study is to determine the antibiotic resistance profile of E. coli isolated from raw milk and the efficacy of phage in controlling multidrug-resistant E. coli in raw milk. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed the highest resistance rates of E. coli isolates to co-trime (27.34%) and ampicillin (27.34%), followed by streptomycin (25.18%), tetracycline (23.02%), and the lowest resistance rates to ciprofloxacin, gentamycin, and ceftazidime, all at a rate of 2.16%. All isolates were susceptible to meropenem. Of the 139 E. coli isolates, 57 (41.01%) were resistant to at least one antibiotic, and 35 (25.18%) were classified as MDR strains. Molecular characterization indicated that 5 (3.6%) out of the 139 isolates were STEC strains carrying stx1 gene. Seven (5.04%) isolates were phenotypically identified as ESBLEC, and four isolates (2.88%) were resistant to colistin. The results of the genotypic test revealed that four out of seven ESBLEC strains carried both bla_TEM and bla_CTX-M-1, two harbored bla_TEM, and one possessed bla_CTX-M-1, while mcr-1 was detected in all four colistin-resistant E. coli isolates. In particular, one isolated E. coli strain (EM148) was determined to be a multidrug-resistant strain simultaneously carrying bla_TEM, bla_CTX-M-1, and mcr-1. A total of eight phages were successfully recovered from raw milk. The application of phage PEM3 significantly reduced viable counts of multidrug-resistant host EM148 in raw milk by at least 2.31 log CFU/mL at both 24 °C and 4 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Approaches to Combating Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens)

12 pages, 381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence of Helminths in Small Ruminant Farms and Evaluation of Control Practices Used to Counter Anthelmintic Resistance in Southern Italy

by Fabio Castagna, Roberto Bava, Marta Gagliardi, Simone Russo, Giusi Poerio, Stefano Ruga, Carmine Lupia, Giuseppe Cringoli, Antonio Bosco, Laura Rinaldi, Ernesto Palma, Domenico Britti and Vincenzo Musella

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060493 - 9 Jun 2024

Viewed by 348

Abstract

Anthelmintic resistance in small ruminants is a serious worldwide problem. To reduce their spread, it is essential to know the prevalence of helminths on farms and the control practices adopted. As these studies in the Calabria region of southern Italy are fragmentary and [...] Read more.

Anthelmintic resistance in small ruminants is a serious worldwide problem. To reduce their spread, it is essential to know the prevalence of helminths on farms and the control practices adopted. As these studies in the Calabria region of southern Italy are fragmentary and outdated, a study on the prevalence of helminths in small ruminant holdings in this area has been conducted. The measures implemented to control helminths were also evaluated through questionnaires administered to farmers. In particular, on 90 farms (45 sheep and 45 goats), 1800 faecal samples from 900 sheep and 900 goats were collected in the spring. Using the FLOTAC dual technique, parasitological examinations demonstrated the presence of gastrointestinal nematodes in 100% of sheep and goat farms, followed by Nematodirus spp. (84.44% sheep and 48.89% goats), Moniezia spp. (73.33% sheep and 35.56% goats), Trichuris ovis (48.89% sheep and 42.22% goats), lungworms (28.89% sheep and 42.22% goats), Strongyloides papillosus (40% sheep and 26.67% goats), Dicrocoelium dendriticum (13.33% sheep and 26.67% goats), Calicophoron daubneyi (6.67% sheep and 31.11% goats), Fasciola hepatica (6.67% sheep and 4.44% goats), and Skrjabinema ovis (4.44% sheep and goats). The questionnaires showed that 82% and 85% of the farmers had applied pasture rotation, and that 93.3% and 86.6% had used anthelmintics in the previous year for sheep and goats, respectively. Only 24.4% of sheep farmers and 11.3% of goat farmers had carried out parasitological tests prior to treatments. The most used classes of anthelmintics were macrocyclic lactones and benzimidazoles, and only in 21.6% and 15.6%, for sheep and goats, respectively, was drug rotation carried out. These results denote that helminths represent a health problem for small ruminants and highlight a lack of knowledge of parasite control strategies among farmers. In these conditions, anthelmintic resistance phenomena could develop over time. Therefore, it is necessary to implement all possible strategies for the control of helminths, and to prevent the spread of anthelmintic resistance phenomena on farms in southern Italy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, and Drug Resistance in Nematode Parasites)

12 pages, 330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Medical Causes of Hospitalisation among Patients with Bronchiectasis: A Nationwide Study in Japan

by Akihiko Hagiwara, Hisayuki Shuto, Ryohei Kudoh, Shota Omori, Kazufumi Hiramatsu, Jun-ichi Kadota, Kiyohide Fushimi and Kosaku Komiya

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060492 - 9 Jun 2024

Viewed by 352

Abstract

Purpose: Although the international guidelines for managing bronchiectasis are centred on preventing the exacerbation of bronchiectasis, the medical causes of admissions to hospital among patients with bronchiectasis have not been fully investigated. Methods: This study targeted patients with bronchiectasis who were admitted to [...] Read more.

Purpose: Although the international guidelines for managing bronchiectasis are centred on preventing the exacerbation of bronchiectasis, the medical causes of admissions to hospital among patients with bronchiectasis have not been fully investigated. Methods: This study targeted patients with bronchiectasis who were admitted to hospitals between April 2018 and March 2020 using the national inpatient database in Japan. The causes of hospitalisation and types of antibiotics used for hospitalised patients were recorded. Results: In total, 21,300 hospitalisations of 16,723 patients with bronchiectasis were analysed. The most common cause was respiratory diseases in 15,145 (71.1%) admissions, including bacterial pneumonia and the exacerbation of bronchiectasis in 6238 (41.2%) and 3151 (20.8%), respectively. Antipseudomonal antibiotics were used in approximately 60% of patients with bacterial pneumonia who were administered antibiotic treatments and in approximately 50% of patients with the exacerbation of bronchiectasis. Conclusions: Bacterial pneumonia was the most frequent cause of hospitalisation, followed by the exacerbation of bronchiectasis, among patients with bronchiectasis. Physicians need to focus on the prevention of bacterial pneumonia in addition to the exacerbation of bronchiectasis in patients with bronchiectasis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases)

13 pages, 670 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Respiratory Diseases and Their Economic Impacts

by Ananya Sivaraman Jayaraman, Ishita Darekar, Nidhi Vijayprakash Dadhich, Lakshmi Sai Manasvi Tadepalli, Yao Gongwang, Sunil Singh and Edem Gavor

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060491 - 8 Jun 2024

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Abstract

COVID-19 is an airborne respiratory disease that mainly affects the lungs. To date, COVID-19 has infected 580 million people with a mortality of approximately 7 million people worldwide. The emergence of COVID-19 has also affected the infectivity, diagnosis, and disease outcomes of existing [...] Read more.

COVID-19 is an airborne respiratory disease that mainly affects the lungs. To date, COVID-19 has infected 580 million people with a mortality of approximately 7 million people worldwide. The emergence of COVID-19 has also affected the infectivity, diagnosis, and disease outcomes of existing diseases such as influenza, TB, and asthma in human populations. These are airborne respiratory diseases with symptoms and mode of transmission similar to those of COVID-19. It was speculated that the protracted nature of the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with vaccination could impact other respiratory diseases and mortality. In this study, we analyzed the impact of COVID-19 on flu, tuberculosis (TB), and asthma. Our analyses suggest that COVID-19 has a potential impact on the mortality of flu, TB, and asthma. These impacts vary across before the COVID-19 era, during the peak period of the pandemic, and after vaccinations/preventive measures were implemented, as well as across different regions of the world. Overall, the spread of flu generally reduced during the pandemic, resulting in a reduced expenditure on flu-related hospitalizations, although there were sporadic spikes at setting times. In contrast, TB deaths generally increased perhaps due to the disruption in access to TB services and reduction in resources. Asthma deaths, on the other hand, only marginally varied. Collectively, the emergence of COVID-19 added extra cost to the overall expenditure on some respiratory infectious diseases, while the cost for other infectious diseases was either reduced or somewhat unaffected. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews of Infectious Diseases)

12 pages, 413 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Echinococcus multilocularis and Other Intestinal Parasites of the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) from the Pomerania Region, Northern Poland

by Bogumiła Pilarczyk, Agnieszka Tomza-Marciniak, Renata Pilarczyk, Małgorzata Bąkowska, Izabella Rząd, Agata Stapf, Lidia Felska-Błaszczyk, Agnieszka Tylkowska and Beata Seremak

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060490 - 8 Jun 2024

Viewed by 421

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the species composition of the intestinal parasite fauna of foxes from the Pomerania region, with a particular emphasis on helminth species considered dangerous to humans, and to determine their prevalence and intensity of infection. In [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to determine the species composition of the intestinal parasite fauna of foxes from the Pomerania region, with a particular emphasis on helminth species considered dangerous to humans, and to determine their prevalence and intensity of infection. In total, 165 digestive systems from foxes inhabiting the Pomeranian region were examined. The prevalence of intestinal parasites among the studied foxes was 61.8%. Our findings confirm that foxes in Pomerania carry various parasites, some of which pose a direct threat to human health. As such, constant monitoring of their infestation is essential. Particular attention should be paid to parasite species with potential for transmission to humans, such as Echinococcus multilocularis, Alaria alata and Toxocara canis, whose respective prevalence was found to be 10.9%, 17.6% and 28.5%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevalence, Pathology, and Alternative Control of Intestinal Parasites)

9 pages, 2179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rickettsia asembonensis Isolated from Four Human Cases with Acute Undifferentiated Febrile Illness in Peru

by Steev Loyola, Rosa Palacios-Salvatierra, Omar Cáceres-Rey and Allen L. Richards

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060489 - 8 Jun 2024

Viewed by 541

Abstract

Rickettsioses, often underreported, pose public health challenges. Rickettsia asembonensis is a potential emerging pathogen that was previously detected in humans, animals, and a variety of arthropods. While its pathogenicity in humans remains unclear, it poses a potential public health threat. Here, we present an [...] Read more.

Rickettsioses, often underreported, pose public health challenges. Rickettsia asembonensis is a potential emerging pathogen that was previously detected in humans, animals, and a variety of arthropods. While its pathogenicity in humans remains unclear, it poses a potential public health threat. Here, we present an extended epidemiological, diagnostic, and genetic analysis of the information provided in a preliminary report on the investigation of rickettsiae in Peru. In particular, we report the detection of R. asembonensis in blood specimens collected from four human patients with an acute undifferentiated fever of a seven- to nine-day duration, all of whom tested negative for other vector-borne pathogens. Additionally, we describe the replicative capacity of the R. asembonensis isolates in cell cultures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Rickettsia and Related Organisms)

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18 pages, 1233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expanding Understanding of Urban Rift Valley Fever Risk and Associated Vector Ecology at Slaughterhouses in Kisumu, Kenya

by Keli Nicole Gerken, Kevin Omondi Owuor, Bryson Ndenga, Sammy Wambua, Christabel Winter, Salome Chemutai, Rodney Omukuti, Daniel Arabu, Irene Miring’u, William C. Wilson, Francis Mutuku, Jesse J. Waggoner, Benjamin Pinsky, Carren Bosire and Angelle Desiree LaBeaud

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060488 - 8 Jun 2024

Viewed by 480

Abstract

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an adaptable arbovirus that can be transmitted by a wide variety of arthropods. Widespread urban transmission of RVFV has not yet occurred, but peri-urban outbreaks of RVFV have recently been documented in East Africa. We previously reported [...] Read more.

Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an adaptable arbovirus that can be transmitted by a wide variety of arthropods. Widespread urban transmission of RVFV has not yet occurred, but peri-urban outbreaks of RVFV have recently been documented in East Africa. We previously reported low-level exposure in urban communities and highlighted the risk of introduction via live animal influx. We deployed a slaughtered animal testing framework in response to an early warning system at two urban slaughterhouses and tested animals entering the meat value chain for anti-RVFV IgG and IgM antibodies. We simultaneously trapped mosquitoes for RVFV and bloodmeal testing. Out of 923 animals tested, an 8.5% IgG seroprevalence was identified but no evidence of recent livestock exposure was detected. Mosquito species abundance varied greatly by slaughterhouse site, which explained 52% of the variance in blood meals. We captured many Culex spp., a known RVFV amplifying vector, at one of the sites (p < 0.001), and this species had the most diverse blood meals. No mosquito pools tested positive for RVFV antigen using a rapid VecTOR test. These results expand understanding of potential RVF urban disease ecology, and highlight that slaughterhouses are key locations for future surveillance, modelling, and monitoring efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Arboviruses: Epidemiology, Vector Dynamics, and Pathogenesis)

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Pathogens, Volume 13, Issue 6 (June 2024) – 87 articles

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