Search Results (82)

Equine influenza is a highly contagious disease caused by the equine influenza virus (EIV). The occurrence of EIV outbreaks in America is associated with low levels of vaccination coverage. In Colombia, no seroprevalence evaluation has been carried out to estimate the distribution of the virus within the country. Our aim was to perform a sero-epidemiological survey of equine influenza infections and to identify associated risk factors in horses from four departments of Colombia. Serological testing was carried out by using an ELISA for the detection of IgG antibodies against the influenza A virus. The evaluation of epidemiological variables, clinical manifestations, and vaccination history was carried out through the application of a data collection instrument. Among the 385 horses analyzed, 27% of the samples tested positive, with a higher prevalence in Study 1 from horses with respiratory symptoms (40.4%) than in Study 2 from horses without clinical signs (16.1%). Only horses housed in stables had higher odds of testing positive. The study also revealed that unvaccinated horses were 68% less likely to test positive than vaccinated horses were. This research highlights a significant gap in vaccination coverage and the presence of antibodies even in asymptomatic horses. Management factors such as activity type and housing should be considered when strategies for EIV prevention are developed. Full article

Introduction: Humanitarian Corridors are part of Protected Entry Procedures (PEPs), which allow for the safe and legal arrival in Europe of refugees in need of protection (art. 25 of Regulation (CE) n.810/2009) and were implemented for the first time in Italy in 2015. They represent an alternative to dangerous journeys, and they also bring benefits to local communities. The National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (NIHMP) represents the first filter at entry with regard to health needs, as it guarantees an overall individual health assessment to verify the possible presence of ongoing infectious pathologies and of issues that may require management and medical investigation. The aim of this study is to expose the organizational activity and analyze the sociodemographic and health data relating to the Humanitarian Corridors implemented in Italy and in which the NIHMP has participated from 2018 to 2024. Materials and Methods: The organizational lists and health data of each corridor were collected. The analysis was carried out in relation to trend, sociodemographic characteristics of the sample, identification, reception and health. The p-value was considered statistically significant if less than 0.01. In all cases in which the p-value was found to be statistically significant, Cramer’s V was calculated to evaluate the strength of the individual correlation. Results: The NIHMP has participated in 14 Humanitarian Corridors, allowing 1250 refugees to enter Italy; a total of 174 unaccompanied foreign minors (UFMs) arrived, and there were 451 refugees reported as vulnerable (36.1%). Contagious infectious conditions were identified in 223 refugees (17.8%), and other health findings were identified in 414 refugees (33.1%). In the analysis by sex, there are statistically significant differences in the reports of vulnerability and in nationality and education. The inferential analysis carried out by age groups presents statistically significant differences in the reports of vulnerability and in sex and nationality. The analysis relating to the differences by nationality shows statistically significant results in the individual corridors in the reports of vulnerability and in schooling, skin manifestations and infectious diseases and the presence of other health findings. Conclusions: The data reported and analyzed in this work can be considered the first attempt at a complete and detailed analysis regarding the actual implementation and effectiveness of Humanitarian Corridors as programs for legal and safe entry into Italy. The significant gap in research is the reason why there are characteristics of our sample that have no counterpart in the literature. Despite this, for other characteristics, it is possible to find statistical significance and scientific value in line with the data reported both on the websites dedicated to the topic and on the limited scientific literature on the subject. Full article

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Although current treatments help manage the condition, many present limitations that affect patient adherence, particularly topical therapies. Given that the skin microbiota represents a promising therapeutic target, this study investigated the potential of prebiotics derived from β-glucans and postbiotics produced by Lactobacillus paracasei and Saccharomyces cerevisiae to modulate microbial balance; the in vitro activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Malassezia furfur, both as isolated compounds and within topical formulations. Extracts were characterized by HPLC, and antimicrobial activity was assessed using broth microdilution and agar diffusion methods. Postbiotic extracts at 500 mg/mL inhibited microbial growth by 90–97%. Oat-derived β-glucan at 0.5% inhibited over 97% of microbial growth, while yeast-derived β-glucan showed approximately 60% inhibition. In agar diffusion tests, the active ingredients reduced the growth of both microorganisms, except for the yeast-derived β-glucan. These findings are promising and suggest that these bioactive compounds could support the rebalancing of skin microbiota in dermatological conditions. Further research is needed to identify the molecules produced by probiotics and assess the most suitable vehicle for incorporating the active compounds. Full article

Bovine mastitis is a significant disease affecting dairy cattle worldwide, impacting milk quality and farm profitability. Understanding pathogen distribution is crucial for effective disease management. This study analyzed 319,634 individual cow milk samples submitted to the UC Davis Milk Quality Laboratory between 2009 and 2023 to assess pathogen prevalence, seasonal variations, and long-term trends. Routine microbiological cultures identified major and minor mastitis pathogens, with additional testing for Mycoplasma spp. Statistical analyses evaluated annual and seasonal trends in bacterial isolation rates. Results indicated that environmental pathogens, particularly non-aureus staphylococci and coliforms, were most frequently isolated, while contagious pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Mycoplasma spp.) were less prevalent. Seasonal trends revealed higher contamination rates in Winter and increased no-growth samples in Summer. The study also observed a decline in sample submissions in recent years, possibly reflecting evolving dairy management practices. These findings provide a comprehensive perspective on mastitis pathogen dynamics in California’s Central Valley, supporting improved milk quality control measures and tailored mastitis prevention strategies. Full article

As COVID-19 transitions from pandemic to endemic, our prevention and control policies have shifted from broad, strict community interventions to focusing on the prevention of cluster outbreaks. Currently, information on the characteristics of cluster outbreaks remains limited. This study describes the features of COVID-19 clusters in Shanghai. It aims to provide valuable insights for managing localized outbreaks. We conducted a retrospective analysis of clusters of confirmed COVID-19 cases. Epidemiological descriptions, the transmission characteristics of clusters, and individual risk factors for contagiousness were analyzed. A total of 381 cases of COVID-19 were confirmed and 67 clusters were identified. Most clusters (58.21%, 39/67) only had two cases, with a declining proportion held by clusters of more cases. Familial transmission was predominant, accounting for 79.10% (53/67) of clusters. Although other types of cluster outbreaks, such as those in workplaces (1.49%, 1/67), occur less frequently compared to household clusters, they tend to involve larger scales and more cases. Workplaces and similar venues are more likely to experience large-scale cluster outbreaks. Contagiousness was higher among cases with runny nose (risk ratio [RR]: 4.8, 95% CI: 1.40–16.44, p-value = 0.01) and those with diabetes (RR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.01–14.60, p-value = 0.05). In conclusion, household cluster outbreaks, in particular, are both a key priority and a foundational issue. Establishing an indicator system based on the transmissibility of cases holds significant practical value for infectious disease prevention and control. By enhancing household hygiene and developing a case classification and management system based on transmissibility, it is possible to better prevent and control regional COVID-19 outbreaks. Full article

Canine demodicosis is a contagious skin disease caused by the over-proliferation of Demodex mites in the host’s hair follicles. This study examines the prevalence, clinical signs, and hematological changes associated with demodicosis in street dogs of Rupandehi, Nepal. Between August 2023 and January 2024, 100 skin scrapings were collected from each street dog presenting dermatological symptoms. The samples, treated with 10% KOH and microscopically examined, revealed a 21% positivity rate for demodicosis, with all cases involving Demodex canis. The infection predominantly affected young puppies (37.5%), females (21.6%), mixed breeds (33.3%), and dogs with above-ideal body conditions (25%). There was no significant association between infection and variables such as age, gender, breed, or nutritional status. Clinically, all affected dogs exhibited alopecia, primarily on the legs. Hematological assessments indicated significant increases in neutrophils and eosinophils and a notable decrease in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and lymphocytes among infected dogs (p < 0.05). This study underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and comprehensive diagnostic practices in effectively managing and treating canine demodicosis, especially in street dogs. Full article

Sheep and goats are an important source of livelihood for smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). These livestock are almost entirely managed by resource-poor, smallholder farmers and pastoralists. Despite the large number of sheep and goats in SSA, their productivity is low, mainly due to diseases, poor feed, and inferior breeds. This review aims to summarize the most important diseases in small ruminants in SSA, with a focus on current treatment and control strategies. The following diseases were identified as the most significant constraints for small ruminant farmers: helminthoses, including gastrointestinal nematode infestation, lungworm infestation, fasciolosis, and cerebral coenurosis; viral diseases, such as peste des petits ruminants (PPR), sheep and goat pox, and contagious ecthyma (orf); bacterial diseases, including contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), pneumonic pasteurellosis, and anthrax; as well as ectoparasite infestations. The diseases have significant economic implications due to mortality and production losses. Depending on the disease, they may also impact trade and export and hinder the introduction of new, more productive breeds. The ability to control diseases more efficiently is often limited due to financial constraints. In the case of infection with internal parasites, a lack of knowledge about the epidemiology of the disease, as well as the availability of appropriate anthelmintics and the development of resistance against commonly used anthelmintics, are often barriers. The control of viral diseases depends on the accessibility, quality, and handling of vaccines, whereas in bacterial diseases, increasing antibiotic resistance and inappropriate antimicrobial treatments pose challenges, as well as the availability of appropriate vaccines and their use. In the case of ectoparasitic infections, a strategic, regular, and appropriate antiparasitic treatment approach is often not achieved. Full article

Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV), a DNA virus classified as Gallid alphaherpesvirus 1, causes a highly contagious respiratory disease in chickens, leading to significant economic losses and health risks for the poultry industry. The rapid detection of ILTV is essential to control its spread and prevent outbreaks. Traditional diagnostic methods like PCR are costly, require specialized personnel, and delay response efforts. To address this, we developed a point-of-care diagnostic test combining loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) with DNA nanoprobes on respiratory swabs. LAMP targets the ILTV-glycoprotein E (gE) gene, enabling rapid nucleic acid amplification at 65 °C without extraction, making it suitable for on-site detection. DNA nanoprobes provide a colorimetric readout visible to the naked eye. Gold nanoparticles drive this readout, as their red color, based on localized surface plasmon resonance, persists in the presence of ILTV DNA through DNA-DNA hybridization, ensuring reliable detection. The assay achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity for ILTV-gE, with a detection limit of 200 copies per reaction, allowing for the early identification of infections. The results are available within 45 min, enabling prompt measures to control ILTV spread. Cost-effective and user-friendly, this method enhances disease management and biosecurity in poultry farms. Full article

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) is a contagious disease that impacts swine health worldwide. Lipid metabolism plays a vital role in energy production and is regulated by various genes involved in lipogenesis and lipolysis. In this study, we found that PRRSV infection significantly reduced the protein expression of STEAP3. The overexpression of STEAP3 can notably inhibit PRRSV replication. Additionally, we utilized transcriptomics and metabolomics to examine the effects of STEAP3 on PRRSV replication, identifying important pathways associated with energy metabolism and lipogenesis. We subsequently found that STEAP3 can suppress PRRSV replication by regulating fatty acid synthesis and enhancing lipid droplet formation. Overall, these findings indicate that STEAP3 could be a potential target for developing strategies to manage PRRSV infection by modulating lipid metabolism. Full article

Introduction: Remote health monitoring plays a crucial role in telehealth services and the effective management of patients, which can be enhanced by vital sign prediction from facial videos. Facial videos are easily captured through various imaging devices like phone cameras, webcams, or surveillance systems. Methods: This study introduces a hybrid deep learning model aimed at estimating heart rate (HR), blood oxygen saturation level (SpO2), and blood pressure (BP) from facial videos. The hybrid model integrates convolutional neural network (CNN), convolutional long short-term memory (convLSTM), and video vision transformer (ViViT) architectures to ensure comprehensive analysis. Given the temporal variability of HR and BP, emphasis is placed on temporal resolution during feature extraction. The CNN processes video frames one by one while convLSTM and ViViT handle sequences of frames. These high-resolution temporal features are fused to predict HR, BP, and SpO2, capturing their dynamic variations effectively. Results: The dataset encompasses 891 subjects of diverse races and ages, and preprocessing includes facial detection and data normalization. Experimental results demonstrate high accuracies in predicting HR, SpO2, and BP using the proposed hybrid models. Discussion: Facial images can be easily captured using smartphones, which offers an economical and convenient solution for vital sign monitoring, particularly beneficial for elderly individuals or during outbreaks of contagious diseases like COVID-19. The proposed models were only validated on one dataset. However, the dataset (size, representation, diversity, balance, and processing) plays an important role in any data-driven models including ours. Conclusions: Through experiments, we observed the hybrid model’s efficacy in predicting vital signs such as HR, SpO2, SBP, and DBP, along with demographic variables like sex and age. There is potential for extending the hybrid model to estimate additional vital signs such as body temperature and respiration rate. Full article

Herpes viruses are highly contagious agents affecting all classes of vertebrates, thus causing serious health, social, and economic losses. Within the One Health concept, novel therapeutics are extensively studied for both veterinary and human control and management of the infection, but the optimal strategy has not been invented yet. Lactic acid bacteria are key components of the microbiome that are known to play a protective role against pathogens as one of the proposed mechanisms involves compounds released from their metabolic activity. Previously, we reported the anti-herpes effect of postmetabolites isolated from Lactobacilli, and here, we confirm the inhibitory properties of another nine products against the phylogenetically distant human Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) and fish Koi Herpes virus (KHV) in cell cultures. Cytotoxicity, cytopathic effect inhibition, virucidal effect, the influence on the adsorption stage of the virus to the cells, as well as the protective effect of the postmetabolites on healthy cells were evaluated. The inhibitory effect was more pronounced against HSV-1 than against KHV at all studied viral cycle stages. Regarding the intracellular replicative steps, samples S7, S8, and S9 (Mix group) isolated from Ligilactobacillus salivarius (vaginal strain) demonstrated the most distinct effect with calculated selective indices (SIs) in the range between 69.4 and 77.8 against HSV-1, and from 62.2 to 68.4 against KHV. Bioactive metabolites from various LAB species significantly inhibit extracellular HSV-1 and, to a lesser extent, KHV virions. The blockage of viral adsorption to the host cells was remarkable, as recorded by a decrease in the viral titer with Δlg ≥ 5 in the Mix group for both herpes viruses. The remaining postmetabolites also significantly inhibited viral adsorption to varying degrees with Δlg ≥ 3. Most metabolites also exerted a protective effect on healthy MDBK and CCB cells to subsequent experimental viral infection. Our results reveal new horizons for the application of LAB and their postbiotic products in the prevention and treatment of herpes diseases. Full article

Oxidative stress, characterized by an overproduction of reactive oxygen species that overwhelm the body’s physiological defense mechanisms, is a key factor in the progression of parasitic diseases in both humans and animals. Scabies, a highly contagious dermatological condition caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, affects millions globally, particularly in developing regions. The infestation leads to severe itching and skin rashes, triggered by allergic reactions to the mites, their eggs, and feces. Conventional scabies treatments typically involve the use of scabicidal agents, which, although effective, are often associated with adverse side effects and the increasing threat of resistance. In light of these limitations, there is growing interest in the use of medicinal plants as alternative therapeutic options. Medicinal plants, rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties, offer a promising, safer, and potentially more effective approach to treatment. This review explores the role of oxidative stress in scabies pathogenesis and highlights how medicinal plants can mitigate this by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage, thereby alleviating symptoms and improving patient outcomes. Through their natural antioxidant potential, these plants may serve as viable alternatives or complementary therapies in the management of scabies, especially in cases where resistance to conventional treatments is emerging. Full article

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease spread through respiratory droplets. The number of reported cases increased worldwide in 2023, particularly in the European Region. Italy reported 213 cases in the first quarter of 2024, with most of them in unvaccinated adults aged 15–64. Maintaining high vaccination coverage is essential to prevent outbreaks, especially in healthcare settings where measles transmission is a significant risk. In our study, we collected serological and demographic information from all Italian and foreign medical students and residents (850) who underwent a pre-training assessment at the Tor Vergata Occupational Medicine Service, Rome, between 3 April 2023 and 31 January 2024. Of the 850 students and residents analyzed, we found only 546 (64.2%) with a protective level of IgG antibodies against measles, with a median IgG level of 2.00 AI. A significant proportion of students and residents were serologically non-immune, raising concerns about the potential risk of hospital transmission. To manage this risk, it is important to assess serological levels, vaccinate those with inadequate levels, and promote vaccination in the general population. Full article

Mexico is home to 14 species of lagomorphs, 6 of which are endemic. Studies on diseases affecting native lagomorphs are scarce, and in most cases, the impact on their populations remains largely unknown. Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), especially the RHDV2 variant, causes a serious and extremely contagious disease, resulting in high mortality rates and major declines in wild lagomorph populations. The objectives of this study were to identify disease hotspots and critical biodiversity regions in Mexico through the combined use of disease information and lagomorph distribution maps and to determine the areas of greatest concern. In total, 19 states of Mexico recorded RHDV2 from April 2020 to August 2021, and 12 of them reported the wild species Sylvilagus audubonii, Lepus californicus, and unidentified Leporidae species. The distribution of RHDV2 in Mexico can be closely predicted from climatic variables. RHDV2 hotspots are located in the central-southern area of the Mexican Highlands and the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, where the virus affects multiple species. This knowledge is essential for proposing specific actions to manage and preserve lagomorph populations at risk and address these issues as soon as possible. Full article

Controlling the progression of contagious diseases is crucial for public health management, emphasizing the importance of early viral infection diagnosis. In response, lateral flow assays (LFAs) have been successfully utilized in point-of-care (POC) testing, emerging as a viable alternative to more traditional diagnostic methods. Recent advancements in virus detection have primarily leveraged methods such as reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), reverse transcription–loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Despite their proven effectiveness, these conventional techniques are often expensive, require specialized expertise, and consume a significant amount of time. In contrast, LFAs utilize nanomaterial-based optical sensing technologies, including colorimetric, fluorescence, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), offering quick, straightforward analyses with minimal training and infrastructure requirements for detecting viral proteins in biological samples. This review describes the composition and mechanism of and recent advancements in LFAs for viral protein detection, categorizing them into colorimetric, fluorescent, and SERS-based techniques. Despite significant progress, developing a simple, stable, highly sensitive, and selective LFA system remains a formidable challenge. Nevertheless, an advanced LFA system promises not only to enhance clinical diagnostics but also to extend its utility to environmental monitoring and beyond, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize both healthcare and environmental safety. Full article