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Section = Immunology and Infectious Diseases

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33 pages, 1138 KiB  
Review
Immunosenescence and the Geriatric Giants: Molecular Insights into Aging and Healthspan
by Deasy Fetarayani, Mega Kahdina, Alief Waitupu, Laras Pratiwi, Mukti Citra Ningtyas, Galih Januar Adytia and Henry Sutanto
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(3), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13030100 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
Aging is associated with complex immune dysfunction that contributes to the onset and progression of the “geriatric giants”, including frailty, sarcopenia, cognitive decline, falls, and incontinence. Central to these conditions is immunosenescence, marked by thymic involution, the loss of naïve T cells, T-cell [...] Read more.
Aging is associated with complex immune dysfunction that contributes to the onset and progression of the “geriatric giants”, including frailty, sarcopenia, cognitive decline, falls, and incontinence. Central to these conditions is immunosenescence, marked by thymic involution, the loss of naïve T cells, T-cell exhaustion, impaired B-cell class switch recombination, and increased autoreactivity. Concurrently, innate immunity deteriorates due to macrophage, neutrophil, and NK cell dysfunction, while chronic low-grade inflammation—or “inflammaging”—amplifies systemic decline. Key molecular pathways such as NF-κB, mTOR, and the NLRP3 inflammasome mediate immune aging, interacting with oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and epigenetic modifications. These processes not only impair infection control and vaccine responsiveness but also promote tissue degeneration and multimorbidity. This review explores emerging interventions—ranging from senolytics and immunonutrition to microbiome-targeted therapies and exercise—that may restore immune homeostasis and extend healthspan. Despite advances, challenges remain in translating immunological insights into clinical strategies tailored to older adults. Standardization in microbiome trials and safety optimization in senolytic therapies are critical next steps. Integrating geroscience into clinical care could help to mitigate the burden of aging-related diseases by targeting fundamental drivers of immune dysfunction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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23 pages, 1033 KiB  
Review
Memory T Cells in Respiratory Virus Infections: Protective Potential and Persistent Vulnerabilities
by Henry Sutanto, Febrian Ramadhan Pradana, Galih Januar Adytia, Bagus Aditya Ansharullah, Alief Waitupu, Bramantono Bramantono and Deasy Fetarayani
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(2), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13020048 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1258
Abstract
Respiratory virus infections, such as those caused by influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses, pose a significant global health burden. While the immune system’s adaptive components, including memory T cells, are critical for recognizing and combating these pathogens, recurrent infections and [...] Read more.
Respiratory virus infections, such as those caused by influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses, pose a significant global health burden. While the immune system’s adaptive components, including memory T cells, are critical for recognizing and combating these pathogens, recurrent infections and variable disease outcomes persist. Memory T cells are a key element of long-term immunity, capable of responding swiftly upon re-exposure to pathogens. They play diverse roles, including cross-reactivity to conserved viral epitopes and modulation of inflammatory responses. However, the protective efficacy of these cells is influenced by several factors, including viral evolution, host age, and immune system dynamics. This review explores the dichotomy of memory T cells in respiratory virus infections: their potential to confer robust protection and the limitations that allow for breakthrough infections. Understanding the underlying mechanisms governing the formation, maintenance, and functional deployment of memory T cells in respiratory mucosa is critical for improving immunological interventions. We highlight recent advances in vaccine strategies aimed at bolstering T cell-mediated immunity and discuss the challenges posed by viral immune evasion. Addressing these gaps in knowledge is pivotal for designing effective therapeutics and vaccines to mitigate the global burden of respiratory viruses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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10 pages, 196 KiB  
Article
Safety of and Adverse Reactions to the COVID-19 Vaccine Among Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
by Nguyen Thi Minh Thanh, Le Thi Hang, Mai Trong Hung, Tran Hoa Phuong, Nguyen Thi Phuong Lan, Mac Dang Tuan, Nguyen Xuan Bach and Nguyen Duy Anh
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(2), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13020038 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 686
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of adverse reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine among pregnant and breastfeeding women and identify associated demographic and clinical factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, from November 2021 to [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of adverse reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine among pregnant and breastfeeding women and identify associated demographic and clinical factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, from November 2021 to March 2022. A total of 1204 participants, including 991 pregnant women beyond 13 weeks of gestation and 213 breastfeeding women, were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire designed to capture demographic information and adverse reactions occurring within seven to 28 days post-vaccination. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and logistic regression, were performed using Stata 16.0, with the significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The most common adverse reactions were localized pain at the injection site (26.2%), dizziness and fatigue (19.2%), and fever below 39 °C (29.1%). Severe adverse reactions, such as a tight throat, coma, and premature birth, were rare. A multivariate analysis identified the significant factors associated with the adverse reactions, including age (aOR = 2.04 for participants aged 36–40 years), occupation (lower odds for farmers and business professionals), urban residency (aOR = 0.64), and a history of allergies (aOR = 1.59). Education level, number of children, and gestational age were not significantly associated with adverse events. Conclusions: The findings support the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnant and breastfeeding women, with most of the adverse reactions being mild and self-limiting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
14 pages, 1870 KiB  
Article
Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on the Prevalence and Incidence of Enteric Protozoa in a Spanish Tertiary-Care Hospital and a Referral Center for Tropical Diseases, 2019–2023
by Alfredo Maldonado-Barrueco, Fernando de la Calle-Prieto, Marta Díaz-Menéndez, Marta Arsuaga, Julio García-Rodríguez and Guillermo Ruiz-Carrascoso
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13010023 - 1 Mar 2025
Viewed by 807
Abstract
Objetive: The aim of this study was to describe the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with symptoms of enteric protozoa (EP), including Blastocystis spp., Dientamoeba fragilis, Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, and Cyclospora cayetanensis, [...] Read more.
Objetive: The aim of this study was to describe the impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with symptoms of enteric protozoa (EP), including Blastocystis spp., Dientamoeba fragilis, Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, and Cyclospora cayetanensis, in the overall population and in patients who were consulted at a National Referral Center for Imported Tropical Diseases (NRCITD patients) from a healthcare area in Madrid (Spain). Method: Data on patients with positive RT-PCR results for EP were collected. The periods analyzed were prepandemic (P0, 1 April 2019–31 March 2020), and the first (P1, 1 April 2020–31 March 2021), second (P2, 1 April 2021–31 March 2022), and third (P3, 1 April 2022–31 March 2023) pandemic years. We compared the prevalence, median age, absolute incidence (EP per 100,000 population of each period), and patient profile (NRCITD vs. non-NRCITD) during the study periods using Fisher’s test (p < 0.05) and the T-test (p < 0.001). Results: During P0, 24.8%, [95% CI: 23.9–25.6] of patients tested for EP RT-PCR were positive, 22.6% [95% CI: 21.5–23.7] were positive in P1, 20.4%, [95% CI: 19.5–21.3] were positive during P2, and 20% [95% CI: 19.2–20.9] of patients tested during P3 were positive. During the study, there was no difference in the median ages. The prevalence and absolute incidence of EP showed a decreasing trend during the pandemic for the NRCITD and non-NRCITD patients (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Blastocystis spp. and D. fragilis showed a lower decrease in prevalence during P1 (p > 0.05) due to the higher detection of colonized patients during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, G. lamblia and Cryptosporidium spp. showed the highest decrease in prevalence and absolute incidence during P2 (p < 0.05) because of the NPIs implemented during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The NTRCID patients showed a higher prevalence of Blastocystis spp. than the non-NTRCID patients during every period studied (p < 0.001). E. histolytica and C. cayetanensis showed a homogeneous trend. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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12 pages, 1038 KiB  
Article
Antibiotic Resistance & Extended-Spectrum ß-Lactamase Production in Clinical and Non-Clinical Isolates in Tabuk
by Badriah Alanazi, Ghulam Muhiuddin, Yazeed Albalawi, Khalid Alhazmi, Othman Alzahrani, Marai Alamri, Hisham Alshadfan and Mohammad Zubair
Med. Sci. 2024, 12(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci12030042 - 18 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1934
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, driven by the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), presents a critical challenge to current medical treatments, particularly in clinical settings. Understanding the distribution and frequency of ESBL-producing bacteria is essential for developing effective control strategies. This study [...] Read more.
The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, driven by the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), presents a critical challenge to current medical treatments, particularly in clinical settings. Understanding the distribution and frequency of ESBL-producing bacteria is essential for developing effective control strategies. This study investigated the antibiotic resistance and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production in bacterial isolates in clinical and non-clinical (food) specimens in Tabuk, KSA. A total of 57 bacterial isolates were analysed, with E. coli and Pseudomonas sp. being the most prevalent. High resistance rates were observed, particularly against third-generation cephalosporins in clinical isolates. ESBL screening revealed a significant prevalence in clinical samples (58.3%), with E. coli showing the highest positivity. Conversely, only a low percentage of food isolates were ESBL positive. Molecular analysis confirmed the presence of various ESBL genes, with blaCTX-M being the most frequent, predominantly found in clinical isolates. This study highlights the concerning levels of antibiotic resistance and ESBL production in the region, emphasising the need for effective infection control measures and prudent antibiotic use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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10 pages, 1848 KiB  
Article
Subclinical Enthesopathy in Psoriasis—An Ultrasonographic Study
by Rucsandra Cristina Dascălu, Andreea Lili Bărbulescu, Ștefan Cristian Dinescu, Cristina Elena Biță, Loredana Elena Stoica and Florentin Ananu Vreju
Med. Sci. 2024, 12(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci12030040 - 16 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1527
Abstract
The present study is aimed at assessing the presence and prevalence of subclinical entheseal changes in Psoriasis (PsO) patients using musculoskeletal ultrasonography (US), conjoined with the analysis of possible differences in terms of demographic, clinical, or biological features. We carried out an observational [...] Read more.
The present study is aimed at assessing the presence and prevalence of subclinical entheseal changes in Psoriasis (PsO) patients using musculoskeletal ultrasonography (US), conjoined with the analysis of possible differences in terms of demographic, clinical, or biological features. We carried out an observational study on 54 patients with PsO and 40 controls. Subclinical enthesopathy, according to OMERACT definitions, was identified in 20 of the psoriasis patients (37.03%), a significantly difference compared to the controls (5 patients; 10.20%). A comparison between US examinations for psoriasis patients and controls indicates that all the examined areas manifested changes in a significantly higher percentage of patients than the controls. The most common structural changes were represented by thickened tendon (85%), calcification (65%), erosions (35%), power Doppler (PD) signal (20%), and bursitis (5%). The difference in mean MASEI (Madrid Sonographic Enthesitis Index) score between the psoriasis and control groups was statistically significant (10.56 + 2.96 vs. 2.9 + 2.20; p < 0.0001). In conclusion, ultrasound is an easily accessible and vital follow-up method for psoriasis patients to enable an early, subclinical detection of entheseal involvement, i.e., the first red-flag sign for a future transition to psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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13 pages, 272 KiB  
Review
Advanced Therapies for Human Immunodeficiency Virus
by Daniel Josef Lindegger
Med. Sci. 2024, 12(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci12030033 - 18 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3076
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant global health challenge with approximately 38 million people currently having the virus worldwide. Despite advances in treatment development, the virus persists in the human population and still leads to new infections. The virus has a powerful [...] Read more.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant global health challenge with approximately 38 million people currently having the virus worldwide. Despite advances in treatment development, the virus persists in the human population and still leads to new infections. The virus has a powerful ability to mutate and hide from the human immune system in reservoirs of the body. Current standard treatment with antiretroviral therapy effectively controls viral replication but requires lifelong adherence and does not eradicate the virus. This review explores the potential of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products as novel therapeutic approaches to HIV, including cell therapy, immunisation strategies and gene therapy. Cell therapy, particularly chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy, shows promise in preclinical studies for targeting and eliminating HIV-infected cells. Immunisation therapies, such as broadly neutralising antibodies are being investigated to control viral replication and reduce reservoirs. Despite setbacks in recent trials, vaccines remain a promising avenue for HIV therapy development. Gene therapy using technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 aims to modify cells to resist HIV infection or eliminate infected cells. Challenges such as off-target effects, delivery efficiency and ethical considerations persist in gene therapy for HIV. Future directions require further research to assess the safety and efficacy of emerging therapies in clinical trials. Combined approaches may be necessary to achieve complete elimination of the HIV reservoir. Overall, advanced therapies offer new hope for advancing HIV treatment and moving closer to a cure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
9 pages, 1294 KiB  
Communication
The Anti-Inflammatory Action of Pulsed Radiofrequency—A Hypothesis and Potential Applications
by Menno E. Sluijter, Alexandre Teixeira, Kris Vissers, Luis Josino Brasil and Bert van Duijn
Med. Sci. 2023, 11(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci11030058 - 10 Sep 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3609
Abstract
In 2013, it was reported that pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) could be applied to obtain a systemic anti-inflammatory effect. Patients with chronic pain and patients with an inflammatory condition from other disciplines could potentially profit from this finding. At that time, intravenous application was [...] Read more.
In 2013, it was reported that pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) could be applied to obtain a systemic anti-inflammatory effect. Patients with chronic pain and patients with an inflammatory condition from other disciplines could potentially profit from this finding. At that time, intravenous application was used, but since then, it became clear that it could be applied transcutaneously as well. This procedure was named RedoxPRF. This can be used both for regional and for systemic application. Recently, the basic element of the mode of action has been clarified from the analysis of the effects of PRF on a standard model of muscle injury in rats. The objective of this paper is to present a hypothesis on the mode of action of RedoxPRF now that the basic mechanism has become known. Cell stress causes an increased production of free radicals, disturbing the redox equilibrium, causing oxidative stress (OS) either directly or secondarily by other types of stress. Eventually, OS causes inflammation and an increased sympathetic (nervous) system activity. In the acute form, this leads to immune paralysis; in the chronic form, to immune tolerance and chronic inflammation. It is hypothesized that RedoxPRF causes a reduction of free radicals by a recombination of radical pairs. For systemic application, the target cells are the intravascular immune cells that pass through an activated area as on an assembly line. Hypothesis conclusions: 1. RedoxPRF treatment works selectively on OS. It has the unique position of having a point of engagement at the most upstream level of the train of events. 2. RedoxPRF has the potential of being a useful tool in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and possibly of stage 4 cancer. 3. In the treatment of chronic pain, RedoxPRF is an entirely new method because it is different from ablation as well as from stimulation. We propose the term “functional restoration”. 4. Controlled studies must be conducted to develop this promising new field in medicine further. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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12 pages, 1376 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Malaria Transmission Mechanisms, Control, and Modeling
by Merveille Koissi Savi
Med. Sci. 2023, 11(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci11010003 - 23 Dec 2022
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 17960
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa, malaria is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity. As a result of the interplay between many factors, the control of this disease can be challenging. However, few studies have demonstrated malaria’s complexity, control, and modeling although this perspective could [...] Read more.
In sub-Saharan Africa, malaria is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity. As a result of the interplay between many factors, the control of this disease can be challenging. However, few studies have demonstrated malaria’s complexity, control, and modeling although this perspective could lead to effective policy recommendations. This paper aims to be a didactic material providing the reader with an overview of malaria. More importantly, using a system approach lens, we intend to highlight the debated topics and the multifaceted thematic aspects of malaria transmission mechanisms, while showing the control approaches used as well as the model supporting the dynamics of malaria. As there is a large amount of information on each subject, we have attempted to provide a basic understanding of malaria that needs to be further developed. Nevertheless, this study illustrates the importance of using a multidisciplinary approach to designing next-generation malaria control policies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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9 pages, 565 KiB  
Article
Effect of Sub-Inhibitory Concentrations of Nitrofurantoin, Ciprofloxacin, and Trimethoprim on In Vitro Biofilm Formation in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC)
by Shane Whelan, Mary Claire O’Grady, Gerard Daniel Corcoran, Karen Finn and Brigid Lucey
Med. Sci. 2023, 11(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci11010001 - 20 Dec 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3231
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sublethal concentrations of nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim on biofilm formation in 57 uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains (UPEC). The minimum inhibitory concentration of nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim was determined and the biofilm formation [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sublethal concentrations of nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim on biofilm formation in 57 uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains (UPEC). The minimum inhibitory concentration of nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim was determined and the biofilm formation for each isolate with and without sub-lethal concentrations of each antibiotic was then quantified. The statistical significance of changes in biofilm formation was ascertained by way of a Dunnett’s test. A total of 22.8% of strains were induced to form stronger biofilms by nitrofurantoin, 12% by ciprofloxacin, and 19% by trimethoprim; conversely 36.8% of strains had inhibited biofilm formation with nitrofurantoin, 52.6% with ciprofloxacin, and 38.5% with trimethoprim. A key finding was that even in cases where the isolate was resistant to an antibiotic as defined by EUCAST, many were induced to form a stronger biofilm when grown with sub-MIC concentrations of antibiotics, especially trimethoprim, where six of the 22 trimethoprim resistant strains were induced to form stronger biofilms. These findings suggest that the use of empirical treatment with trimethoprim without first establishing susceptibility may in fact potentiate infection in cases where a patient who is suffering from a urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by trimethoprim resistant UPEC is administered trimethoprim. This emphasizes the need for laboratory-guided treatment of UTI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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8 pages, 532 KiB  
Case Report
Polymicrobial Infections in the Immunocompromised Host: The COVID-19 Realm and Beyond
by Eibhlin Higgins, Aanchal Gupta and Nathan W. Cummins
Med. Sci. 2022, 10(4), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci10040060 - 20 Oct 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3282
Abstract
Immunosuppression changes both susceptibility to and presentation of infection. Infection with one pathogen can also alter host response to a different, unrelated pathogen. These interactions have been seen across multiple infection domains where bacteria, viruses or fungi act synergistically with a deleterious impact [...] Read more.
Immunosuppression changes both susceptibility to and presentation of infection. Infection with one pathogen can also alter host response to a different, unrelated pathogen. These interactions have been seen across multiple infection domains where bacteria, viruses or fungi act synergistically with a deleterious impact on the host. This phenomenon has been well described with bacterial and fungal infections complicating influenza and is of particular interest in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Modulation of the immune system is a crucial part of successful solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Herein, we present three cases of polymicrobial infection in transplant recipients. These case examples highlight complex host–pathogen interactions and the resultant clinical syndromes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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9 pages, 270 KiB  
Article
The Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Critically Ill Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Infection Compared with Critically Ill Influenza and Community-Acquired Pneumonia Patients: A Retrospective Chart Review
by Sean Boyd, Kai Sheng Loh, Jessie Lynch, Dhari Alrashed, Saad Muzzammil, Hannah Marsh, Mustafa Masoud, Salman Bin Ihsan and Ignacio Martin-Loeches
Med. Sci. 2022, 10(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci10020030 - 8 Jun 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3004
Abstract
The rate of venous thromboembolism in COVID-19 patients has been reported to be 30% (deep vein thrombosis 20% and pulmonary embolism 18%). This has been shown to be higher in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Prophylactic anticoagulation may be sufficient at ward [...] Read more.
The rate of venous thromboembolism in COVID-19 patients has been reported to be 30% (deep vein thrombosis 20% and pulmonary embolism 18%). This has been shown to be higher in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Prophylactic anticoagulation may be sufficient at ward level, but not in intensive care. A retrospective chart review was undertaken in a large university hospital. The review included 276 patients from COVID-19 Wave 1, COVID-19 Wave 2, influenza, and community-acquired pneumonia groups. The timeframe included patients admitted between 23 February 2014 and 12 May 2021. Clinical characteristics, outcomes, blood results, rates of venous thromboembolism, and anticoagulation status were recorded. The incidence of venous thromboembolism in COVID-19 Wave 1, COVID-19 Wave 2, influenza, and community-acquired pneumonia was 10.91%, 13.69%, 13.33%, and 6.81%, respectively (p = 0.481). The incidence of pulmonary embolism was 7.27%, 10.95%, 3.33%, and 5.68%, respectively (p = 0.350). The incidence of deep vein thrombosis was 5.45%, 5.48%, 10.00%, and 1.14%, respectively (p = 0.117). Although most patients were prophylactically anticoagulated, venous thromboembolism still occurred. Venous thromboembolism remains an important differential to consider in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The current literature does not advise therapeutic anticoagulation for thromboprophylaxis in the ICU. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
12 pages, 1433 KiB  
Article
Dynamics in Morbidity Markers and Cytological Observations Made in Urine of Schistosoma haematobium-Infected Children: Pre- and Post-Praziquantel Treatment in an Endemic Setting
by Patience B. Tetteh-Quarcoo, Asamoah Ampong, Nicholas T. K. D. Dayie, John Ahenkorah, Emilia A. Udofia, Emmanuel Afutu, Robert Aryee, Benjamin P. Niriwa, Fleischer C. N. Kotey, Eric S. Donkor and Patrick F. Ayeh-Kumi
Med. Sci. 2022, 10(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci10010014 - 17 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3534
Abstract
Background: Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by helminths of the genus Schistosoma. Morbidity markers and cytological observations such as squamous metaplastic cells, inflammatory cells, and hyperkeratotic cells in the urine of S. haematobium-infected children may suggest disease severity. They [...] Read more.
Background: Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by helminths of the genus Schistosoma. Morbidity markers and cytological observations such as squamous metaplastic cells, inflammatory cells, and hyperkeratotic cells in the urine of S. haematobium-infected children may suggest disease severity. They may also help predict severe forms of clinical presentation, such as bladder cancer in later years, among infected ones who miss out on early detection and treatment. Insights into possible changes in the morbidity markers and cytological observations in the urine of these S. haematobium-infected children before and after treatment would be of high clinical importance. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify changes/dynamics in morbidity markers and cytological abnormalities in the urine deposits of S. haematobium-infected children, pre- and post-praziquantel treatment. Methodology: This was a longitudinal study involving baseline and follow-up sampling among basic school children living in schistosomiasis-endemic communities. Urine samples were collected from 520 children at baseline and examined for S. haematobium ova by microscopy, while urine chemistry analyses were used for the examination of morbidity markers. The cytological analyses involved cytopathological examination of the urine deposits. Children whose urine showed positivity for S. haematobium eggs were treated with a single oral dose of praziquantel (40 mg/kg), after which urine chemistry and cytological analyses were repeated weekly for comparison with baseline, until the eighth week. Results: Morbidity markers such as hematuria, proteinuria, and leukocyturia were detected both at baseline and post-treatment among the infected children (30/520). Hematuria was the predominant parameter (90%, 27/30) detected at baseline, followed by proteinuria (53.3%, 16/30). Leukocyturia was the rarest parameter detected at baseline (13.3%, 4/30). However, almost all these parameters declined gradually post-treatment. Regarding cytological analyses, inflammatory cells were observed most (70.0%, 21/30) at baseline. For hyperkeratotic cells and squamous metaplastic cells, 46.7% and 26.7% were respectively observed at baseline, all of which gradually declined during the weekly follow-ups. Notably, squamous metaplastic cells persisted in all the participants from Week 1 through Week 3 post-treatment, but declined gradually thereafter. Conclusions: Morbidity markers and cytological observations in the children gradually decreased after treatment. Therefore, we continue to recommend routine cytological screening for urogenital schistosomiasis patients at hospitals in S. haematobium-endemic locations using both baseline and follow-up samples to detect these abnormalities early and monitor changes that may be occurring after treatment. Such changes may be useful in assessing treatment progress in infected persons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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10 pages, 2044 KiB  
Article
Preliminary Investigation into Plasmodium-like Piroplasms (Babesia/Theileria) among Cattle, Dogs and Humans in A Malaria-Endemic, Resource-Limited Sub-Saharan African City
by Patrick F. Ayeh-Kumi, Irene A. Owusu, Patience B. Tetteh-Quarcoo, Nicholas T. K. D. Dayie, Kevin Kofi Adutwum-Ofosu, Seth K. Amponsah, Emilia A. Udofia, Emmanuel Afutu, Simon K. Attah, Robert Armah, Robert Aryee, Fleischer C. N. Kotey, Benjamin P. Niriwa, Japheth A. Opintan, Eric S. Donkor and John Ahenkorah
Med. Sci. 2022, 10(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci10010010 - 3 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4575
Abstract
Babesia and Theileria are protozoan parasites belonging to the order piroplasmida, transmitted by hard ticks, and can cause diseases known as piroplasmosis. Human infections are usually asymptomatic, except in immuno-compromised persons who present malaria-like symptoms. Moreover, microscopically, the morphologies of Babesia and Theileria [...] Read more.
Babesia and Theileria are protozoan parasites belonging to the order piroplasmida, transmitted by hard ticks, and can cause diseases known as piroplasmosis. Human infections are usually asymptomatic, except in immuno-compromised persons who present malaria-like symptoms. Moreover, microscopically, the morphologies of Babesia and Theileria can resemble that of the malaria parasite, Plasmodium. In malaria-endemic areas with limited resources, these similarities can increase the possibility of misdiagnosing a patient as having malaria instead of piroplasmosis, which may further lead to inappropriate choice of disease management. This preliminary investigation aimed at detecting Babesia/Theileria in cattle, dogs and humans in some parts of Accra. Whole blood samples were taken from febrile cattle (n = 30) and dogs (n = 33), as well as humans diagnosed with malaria (n = 150). Blood samples of all study subjects were microscopically screened for possible presence of haemoparasites. Samples whose smears had features suggestive of possible piroplasmic infection were all given the label “suspected Babesia/Theileria-infected” samples. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on extracted deoxyribonucelic acid (DNA) from all the “suspected” samples of cattle, dogs and humans, with primer sets that can detect 18S rRNA genes of Babesia/Theileria spp. In addition to this, amplification was performed on the “suspected” dog samples using the BcW-A/BcW-B primer set which detects the 18S rRNA genes of B. canis, while the BoF/BoR primer set which targets the rap-1 region of B. bovis and another primer set which detects the 18S rRNA genes of most bovine Babesia spp. (including B. divergens) were used on the suspected cattle samples. For the human samples, however, additional amplification was done on the extracted DNA using primers for the three other Babesia targeted (B. divergens, B. bovis and B. canis). Microscopy showed possible Babesia/Theileria infection suspected in all three groups of subjects in the following proportions: cattle (10/30; 33%), dogs (3/33; 9%) and humans (6/150; 4%). DNA from one-third of the “suspected” dog samples yielded amplification with Babesia canis primers. Moreover, a broad-detecting set of primers (that can amplify some Babesia and Theileria species) amplified DNA from nine (9/30; 30%) of the “suspected” cattle samples, but none from those of the humans. Although for this study conducted in the city, the Babesia/Theileria primers used did not amplify DNA from the six “suspected” human samples; the possibility of Babesia/Theileria infection in humans in other parts of the country cannot be overruled. There is therefore a need for further studies on possible emergence of human babesiosis/theileriosis in other parts of Ghana and sequencing for specific identification of any circulating strain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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12 pages, 5626 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 Community Transmission among Healthcare Workers at a Tertiary Care Cardiac Center
by Mazin Barry, Asirvatham Alwin Robert, Mohamad-Hani Temsah, Syed Abdul Bari, Muhammad Yasin Akhtar, Faizah Al Nahdi, Richilda Erlandez, Jaffar A. Al-Tawfiq, Abdullah Al Khushail and Yahya Al Hebaishi
Med. Sci. 2021, 9(3), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci9030049 - 30 Jun 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3942
Abstract
Aim: To determine the frequency, mode of transmission, and outcome of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a tertiary care cardiac center in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methods: This is a retrospective study of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome [...] Read more.
Aim: To determine the frequency, mode of transmission, and outcome of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in a tertiary care cardiac center in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methods: This is a retrospective study of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infected HCWs and was conducted from 2 March to 31 December 2020. Data related to the presence of COVID-19 symptoms, mode of transmission, hospitalization, and mortality were collected from the patients’ medical records. Results: Of the 4462 patients tested for COVID-19 by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), 203 (4.5%) HCWs were positive; of these, 125 (61.6%) were males, and the most common age group was <40 years. The most commonly encountered health professionals were nurses (74, 36.4%), followed by therapists/technicians (48, 23.6%), housekeepers (25, 12.3%), and physicians (21, 10.4%). The majority (184, 90.6%) of the HCWs contracted COVID-19 in the community, and only 19 (9.4%) were healthcare-associated infections. Of the infected HCWs, 169 (83.3%) had mild symptoms and were managed in home isolation. The most common symptoms were fever (128, 63.1%), body ache (124, 61.8%), headache (113, 55.7%), dry cough (123, 60.6%), sore throat (97, 47.8%), body weakness (97, 47.8%), and fatigue (94, 46.3%). Comparing males and females, there was a significantly higher number of female nurses; in contrast, there was a higher number of male physicians, housekeepers, therapists/technicians, and other specialty HCWs. A significantly lower number of nurses, therapists/technicians were infected in the ≥40 years age group compared to <40 years. Furthermore, a significantly higher difference was observed among non-Saudi nurses compared to Saudi nurses. No mortality was documented among the included HCWs. Conclusions: In the largest tertiary cardiac center in KSA, most HCWs who contracted COVID-19 developed mild symptoms; nurses and those aged <40 years were most commonly infected, and most infections were acquired in the community. HCWs’ adherence to mitigation measures outside of the workplace is vital to curb the current pandemic and decrease nosocomial transmission risk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunology and Infectious Diseases)
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