Last data update: Apr 22, 2024. (Total: 46599 publications since 2009)
Records 1-30 (of 36 Records) |
Query Trace: Bile E [original query] |
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Prevalence of Platynosomum spp infection and its association with biliary lithiasis and secondary bacterial infections in free-ranging marmosets (Callithrix spp) of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Oliveira AR , Ritter JM , Santos DO , Lucena FP , Carvalho TP , Moreira LGA , Vasconcelos IM , Costa FB , Paixão TA , Santos RL . J Comp Pathol 2023 200 59-66 Platynosomosis is a parasitic disease caused by a trematode of the genus Platynosomum, a bile duct and gallbladder fluke that has been described in captive neotropical primates (New World primates; NWPs) and causes high morbidity and variable mortality. Although it is a major concern for ex-situ conservation of these animals, there are only a few studies of platynosomosis in free-ranging NWPs. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize platynosomosis in a free-ranging population of marmosets (Callithrix spp) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, focusing on the epidemiological and pathological aspects of the disease. A total of 1,001 marmosets were evaluated and on the basis of clinicoepidemiological data, histopathology, histochemistry and immunohistochemistry, we concluded that Platynosomum spp infection has a prevalence of 8.9% (confidence interval: 7.3-10.8%) in free-ranging marmosets, with a higher frequency in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro. Infection was associated with fibrosing and proliferative cholangiohepatitis associated with biliary lithiasis (3.0% of cases) and secondary bacterial infections (14.6% of cases). |
Accuracy of point-of-care HIV and CD4 field testing by lay healthcare workers in the Botswana combination prevention project
Bile EC , Bachanas PJ , Jarvis JN , Maurice F , Makovore V , Chebani L , Jackson KG , Birhanu S , Maphorisa C , Mbulawa MB , Alwano MG , Sexton C , Modise S , Bapati W , Segolodi T , Moore J , Fonjungo PN . J Virol Methods 2022 311 114647 Accurate HIV and CD4 testing are critical in program implementation, with HIV misdiagnosis having serious consequences at both the client and/or community level. We implemented a comprehensive training and Quality Assurance (QA) program to ensure accuracy of point-of-care HIV and CD4 count testing by lay counsellors during the Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP). We compared the performance of field testing by lay counselors to results from an accredited laboratory to ascertain accuracy of testing. All trained lay counselors passed competency assessments and performed satisfactorily in proficiency testing panel evaluations in 2013, 2014, and 2015. There was excellent agreement (99.6%) between field and laboratory-based HIV test results; of the 3002 samples tested, 960 and 2030 were concordantly positive and negative respectively, with 12 misclassifications (kappa score 0.99, p < 0.0001). Of the 149 HIV-positive samples enumerated for CD4 count in the field using PIMA at a threshold of 350 cells/L; there was 86% agreement with laboratory testing, with only 21 misclassified. The mean difference between field and lab CD4 testing was -16.16 cells/L (95% CI -5.4 - 26.9). Overall, there was excellent agreement between field and laboratory results for both HIV rapid test and PIMA CD4 results. A standard training package to train lay counselors to accurately perform HIV and CD4 point-of-care testing in field settings was feasible, with point-of-care results obtained by lay counselors comparable to laboratory-based testing. |
Metabolism of 3-chlorobiphenyl (PCB 2) in a human-relevant cell line: Evidence of dechlorinated metabolites
Zhang CY , Li X , Flor S , Ruiz P , Kruve A , Ludewig G , Lehmler HJ . Environ Sci Technol 2022 56 (17) 12460-12472 Lower chlorinated polychlorinated biphenyls (LC-PCBs) and their metabolites make up a class of environmental pollutants implicated in a range of adverse outcomes in humans; however, the metabolism of LC-PCBs in human models has received little attention. Here we characterize the metabolism of PCB 2 (3-chlorobiphenyl), an environmentally relevant LC-PCB congener, in HepG2 cells with in silico prediction and nontarget high-resolution mass spectrometry. Twenty PCB 2 metabolites belonging to 13 metabolite classes, including five dechlorinated metabolite classes, were identified in the cell culture media from HepG2 cells exposed for 24 h to 10 μM or 3.6 nM PCB 2. The PCB 2 metabolite profiles differed from the monochlorinated metabolite profiles identified in samples from an earlier study with PCB 11 (3,3'-dichlorobiphenyl) under identical experimental conditions. A dechlorinated dihydroxylated metabolite was also detected in human liver microsomal incubations with monohydroxylated PCB 2 metabolites but not PCB 2. These findings demonstrate that the metabolism of LC-PCBs in human-relevant models involves the formation of dechlorination products. In addition, untargeted metabolomic analyses revealed an altered bile acid biosynthesis in HepG2 cells. Our results indicate the need to study the disposition and toxicity of complex PCB 2 metabolites, including novel dechlorinated metabolites, in human-relevant models. |
The first epidemiological and virological influenza surveillance in the Republic of Guinea revealed the predominance of influenza A/H3N2 and B Victoria viruses
Keita MB , Pierre F , Ndjomou J , Traoré B , Tohonamou P , Soumaré M , Mamadi S , Keita MA , Ebi Bile C , Pallawo RB , Rajatonirina SC , Barry A , Koivogui L , Camara R , Touré A . Epidemiol Infect 2021 149 1-20 Little is known about respiratory viruses infection in Guinea. Influenza surveillance has not been implemented in Guinea mainly because of the paucity of laboratory infrastructure and capacity. This paper presents the first influenza surveillance data in Guinea.Swabs were obtained from August 2018 through December 2019 at influenza sentinel sites and transported to the Institut National de Sante Publique for testing. Ribonucleic acid was extracted and tested for the presence of influenza A and B by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Positive samples were further characterised to determine the subtypes and lineages of influenza viruses.A total of 862 swabs were collected and tested. Twenty-three per cent of samples tested positive for influenza A and B viruses. Characterisation of positive specimens identified influenza A/H1N1pmd09 (2.5%), influenza A/H3N2 (57.3%), influenza B/Victoria lineage (36.7%) and 7 (3.5%) influenza B with undetermined lineage. Influenza B virus activity clustered in August through November while influenza A/H3N2 displayed two clusters of activities that appeared in May through August and November through December.For the first time in Guinea, the epidemiology, diversity and period of circulation of influenza viruses were studied. The results indicate the predominance and the periods of activities of influenza B Victoria lineage and influenza A/H3N2 which are important information for preventive strategies. It is warranted to extend the influenza surveillance to other parts of Guinea to better understand the epidemiology of the viruses and monitor the emergence of influenza strains with pandemic potential. |
Incidence and mortality of cancers of the biliary tract by sex, age, race/ethnicity, and stage at diagnosis-United States, 2013-2017
Ellington TD , Momin B , Wilson RJ , Henley SJ , Wu M , Ryerson AB . Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2021 30 (9) 1607-1614 BACKGROUND: Few population-based studies have examined incidence and mortality of cancers of the biliary tract, including intrahepatic bile duct, extrahepatic bile duct, ampulla of Vater, and overlapping or other lesion of the biliary tract in one study. METHODS: To further the understanding of recent rates of biliary tract cancers, we used population-based data, to examine incidence and mortality during 2013-2017. We examined how rates varied by sex, age, race/ethnicity, U.S. census region, and stage at diagnosis. RESULTS: Intrahepatic bile duct was the most common biliary tract cancer with an incidence rate of 1.49 per 100,000 persons. Cancer incidence rates per 100,000 persons were 0.96 for extrahepatic bile duct, 0.45 for ampulla of Vater, and 0.24 for overlapping or other lesion of the biliary tract. Cancer death rates per 100,000 persons were 1.66 for intrahepatic bile duct and 0.45 for other biliary tract. Intrahepatic bile duct incidence and death rates were higher among males than females, higher among Hispanic and Asian and Pacific Islander persons compared to non-Hispanic Whites, and higher in the Northeast and in urban counties. CONCLUSION: This report provides national estimates of these rare biliary tract cancers. IMPACT: Key interventions targeted to high-risk populations may help reduce incidence and mortality of cancers of the biliary tract by improving primary prevention through strategies to reduce tobacco and alcohol use, control overweight and obesity, and promote hepatitis B vaccination and use of syringe service programs meant to curb the transmission of infectious diseases such as viral hepatitis. |
Characterization of the Metabolic Pathways of 4-Chlorobiphenyl (PCB3) in HepG2 Cells Using the Metabolite Profiles of Its Hydroxylated Metabolites
Zhang CY , Flor S , Ruiz P , Ludewig G , Lehmler HJ . Environ Sci Technol 2021 55 (13) 9052-9062 The characterization of the metabolism of lower chlorinated PCB, such as 4-chlorobiphenyl (PCB3), is challenging because of the complex metabolite mixtures formed in vitro and in vivo. We performed parallel metabolism studies with PCB3 and its hydroxylated metabolites to characterize the metabolism of PCB3 in HepG2 cells using nontarget high-resolution mass spectrometry (Nt-HRMS). Briefly, HepG2 cells were exposed for 24 h to 10 μM PCB3 or its seven hydroxylated metabolites in DMSO or DMSO alone. Six classes of metabolites were identified with Nt-HRMS in the culture medium exposed to PCB3, including monosubstituted metabolites at the 3'-, 4'-, 3-, and 4- (1,2-shift product) positions and disubstituted metabolites at the 3',4'-position. 3',4'-Di-OH-3 (4'-chloro-3,4-dihydroxybiphenyl), which can be oxidized to a reactive and toxic PCB3 quinone, was a central metabolite that was rapidly methylated. The resulting hydroxylated-methoxylated metabolites underwent further sulfation and, to a lesser extent, glucuronidation. Metabolomic analyses revealed an altered tryptophan metabolism in HepG2 cells following PCB3 exposure. Some PCB3 metabolites were associated with alterations of endogenous metabolic pathways, including amino acid metabolism, vitamin A (retinol) metabolism, and bile acid biosynthesis. In-depth studies are needed to investigate the toxicities of PCB3 metabolites, especially the 3',4'-di-OH-3 derivatives identified in this study. |
Metabolic response in patients with post-treatment Lyme disease symptoms/syndrome
Fitzgerald BL , Graham B , Delorey MJ , Pegalajar-Jurado A , Islam MN , Wormser GP , Aucott JN , Rebman AW , Soloski MJ , Belisle JT , Molins CR . Clin Infect Dis 2020 73 (7) e2342-e2349 BACKGROUND: Post-treatment Lyme disease symptoms/syndrome (PTLDS) occurs in approximately 10% of Lyme disease patients following antibiotic treatment. Biomarkers or specific clinical symptoms to identify PTLDS patients do not currently exist and the PTLDS classification is based on the report of persistent, subjective symptoms for ≥ 6 months following antibiotic treatment for Lyme disease. METHODS: Untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomics was used to determine longitudinal metabolic responses and biosignatures in PTLDS and clinically cured non-PTLDS Lyme patients. Evaluation of biosignatures included: 1) defining altered classes of metabolites; 2) elastic net regularization to define metabolites that most strongly defined PTLDS and non-PTLDS patients at different timepoints; 3) changes in the longitudinal abundance of metabolites; 4) linear discriminant analysis to evaluate robustness in a second patient cohort. RESULTS: This study determined that observable metabolic differences exist between PTLDS and non-PTLDS patients at multiple timepoints. The metabolites with differential abundance included those from glycerophospholipid, bile acid and acylcarnitine metabolism. Distinct longitudinal patterns of metabolite abundance indicated a greater metabolic variability in PTLDS vs non-PTLDS patients. Small numbers of metabolites (6-40) could be used to define PTLDS vs. non-PTLDS patients at defined time points, and the findings were validated in a second cohort of PTLDS and non-PTLDS patients. CONCLUSIONS: These data provide evidence that an objective metabolite-based measurement can distinguish patients with PTLDS and help understand the underlying biochemistry of PTLDS. |
Virus-Host Interactions Between Nonsecretors and Human Norovirus.
Lindesmith LC , Brewer-Jensen PD , Mallory ML , Jensen K , Yount BL , Costantini V , Collins MH , Edwards CE , Sheahan TP , Vinje J , Baric RS . Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020 10 (2) 245-267 BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Human norovirus infection is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis. Genetic polymorphisms, mediated by the FUT2 gene (secretor enzyme), define strain susceptibility. Secretors express a diverse set of fucosylated histoblood group antigen carbohydrates (HBGA) on mucosal cells; non-secretors (FUT2(-/-)) express a limited array of HBGAs. Thus, non-secretors have less diverse norovirus strain infections, including resistance to the epidemiologically dominant GII.4 strains. As future human norovirus vaccines will be comprised of GII.4 antigen and since secretor phenotype impacts GII.4 infection and immunity, non-secretors may immunologically mimic young children in response to GII.4 vaccination, providing a needed model to study cross-protection in the context of limited pre-exposure. METHODS: Utilizing specimens collected from the first characterized non- secretor cohort naturally infected with GII.2 human norovirus, we evaluated the breadth of serological immunity by surrogate neutralization assays, and cellular activation and cytokine production by flow cytometry. RESULTS: GII.2 infection resulted in broad antibody and cellular immunity activation that persisted for at least 30 days for T cells, monocytes and dendritic cells and for 180 days for blocking antibody. Multiple cellular lineages expressing IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha dominated the response. Both T cell and B cell responses were cross-reactive with other GII strains, but not GI strains. To promote entry mechanisms, inclusion of bile acids was essential for GII.2 binding to non-secretor HBGAs. CONCLUSION: These data support development of within-genogroup cross-reactive antibody and T cell immunity, key outcomes that may provide the foundation for eliciting broad immune responses following GII.4 vaccination in individuals with limited GII.4 immunity, including young children. |
Host metabolic response in early Lyme disease
Fitzgerald BL , Molins CR , Islam MN , Graham B , Hove PR , Wormser GP , Hu L , Ashton LV , Belisle JT . J Proteome Res 2020 19 (2) 610-623 Lyme disease is a tick-borne bacterial illness that occurs in areas of North America, Europe, and Asia. Early infection typically presents as generalized symptoms with an erythema migrans (EM) skin lesion. Dissemination of the pathogen Borrelia burgdorferi can result in multiple EM skin lesions or in extracutaneous manifestations such as Lyme neuroborreliosis. Metabolic biosignatures of patients with early Lyme disease can potentially provide diagnostic targets as well as highlight metabolic pathways that contribute to pathogenesis. Sera from well-characterized patients diagnosed with either early localized Lyme disease (ELL) or early disseminated Lyme disease (EDL), plus healthy controls (HC), from the United States were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Comparative analyses were performed between ELL, or EDL, or ELL combined with EDL, and the HC to develop biosignatures present in early Lyme disease. A direct comparison between ELL and EDL was also performed to develop a biosignature for stages of early Lyme disease. Metabolic pathway analysis and chemical identification of metabolites with LC-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) demonstrated alterations of eicosanoid, bile acid, sphingolipid, glycerophospholipid, and acylcarnitine metabolic pathways during early Lyme disease. These metabolic alterations were confirmed using a separate set of serum samples for validation. The findings demonstrated that infection of humans with B. burgdorferi alters defined metabolic pathways that are associated with inflammatory responses, liver function, lipid metabolism, and mitochondrial function. Additionally, the data provide evidence that metabolic pathways can be used to mark the progression of early Lyme disease. |
Leveraging partnerships to maximize global health security improvements in Guinea, 2015-2019
Standley CJ , MacDonald PDM , Attal-Juncqua A , Barry AM , Bile EC , Collins DL , Corvil S , Ibrahima DB , Hemingway-Foday JJ , Katz R , Middleton KJ , Reynolds EM , Sorrell EM , Lamine SM , Wone A , Martel LD . Health Secur 2020 18 S34-s42 In response to the 2014-2016 West Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, a US congressional appropriation provided funds to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to support global health security capacity building in 17 partner countries, including Guinea. The 2014 funding enabled CDC to provide more than 300 deployments of personnel to Guinea during the Ebola response, establish a country office, and fund 11 implementing partners through cooperative agreements to support global health security engagement efforts in 4 core technical areas: workforce development, surveillance systems, laboratory systems, and emergency management. This article reflects on almost 4 years of collaboration between CDC and its implementing partners in Guinea during the Ebola outbreak response and the recovery period. We highlight examples of collaborative synergies between cooperative agreement partners and local Guinean partners and discuss the impact of these collaborations in strengthening the above 4 core capacities. Finally, we identify the key elements of the successful collaborations, including communication and information sharing as a core cooperative agreement activity, a flexible funding mechanism, and willingness to adapt to local needs. We hope these observations can serve as guidance for future endeavors seeking to establish strong and effective partnerships between government and nongovernment organizations providing technical and operational assistance. |
A novel avian isolate of hepatitis E virus from Pakistan.
Iqbal T , Rashid U , Idrees M , Afroz A , Kamili S , Purdy MA . Virol J 2019 16 (1) 142 BACKGROUND: Avian hepatitis E virus (aHEV) has been associated with hepatitis-splenomegaly syndrome (HSS) in chickens along with asymptomatic subclinical infection in many cases. So far, four genotypes have been described, which cause infection in chickens, specifically in broiler breeders and layer chickens. In the present study, we isolated and identified two novel aHEV strains from the bile of layer chickens in Pakistan evincing clinical symptoms related to HSS. METHODOLOGY: Histology of liver and spleen tissues was carried out to observe histopathological changes in these tissues. Bile fluid and fecal suspensions were used for viral RNA isolation through MegNA pure and Trizol method which was further used for viral genome detection and characterization by cDNA synthesis and amplification of partial open reading frame (ORF) 1, ORF2 and complete ORF3. The bioinformatics tools; Molecular Evolutionary Genetics Analysis version 6.0 (MEGA 6), Mfold and ProtScale were used for phylogenic analysis, RNA secondary structure prediction and protein hydropathy analysis, respectively. RESULTS: Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis on the basis of partial methyltranferase (MeT), helicase (Hel) domain, ORF2 and complete ORF3 sequence suggests these Pakistani aHEV (Pak aHEV) isolates may belong to a Pakistani specific clade. The overall sequence similarity between the Pak aHEV sequences was 98-100%. The ORF1/ORF3 intergenic region contains a conserved cis-reactive element (CRE) and stem-loop structure (SLS). Analysis of the amino acid sequence of ORF3 indicated two hydrophobic domains (HD) and single conserved proline-rich domain (PRD) PREPSAPP (PXXPXXPP) with a single PSAP motif found in C-terminal. Amino acid changes S15 T, A31T, Q35H and G46D unique to the Pak aHEV sequences were found in the N-terminal region of ORF3. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggests that Pak aHEV isolates may represent a novel Pakistani clade and high sequence homology to each other support the supposition they may belong to a monophyletic clade circulating in the region around Pakistan. The data presented in this study provide further information for aHEV genetic diversity, genotype mapping, global distribution and epidemiology. |
Increasing knowledge of HIV status in a country with high HIV testing coverage: Results from the Botswana Combination Prevention Project
Alwano MG , Bachanas P , Block L , Roland M , Sento B , Behel S , Lebelonyane R , Wirth K , Ussery F , Bapati W , Motswere-Chirwa C , Abrams W , Ussery G , Miller JA , Bile E , Fonjungo P , Kgwadu A , Holme MP , Del Castillo L , Gaolathe T , Leme K , Majingo N , Lockman S , Makhema J , Bock N , Moore J . PLoS One 2019 14 (11) e0225076 INTRODUCTION: Achieving widespread knowledge of HIV-positive status is a crucial step to reaching universal ART coverage, population level viral suppression, and ultimately epidemic control. We implemented a multi-modality HIV testing approach to identify 90% or greater of HIV-positive persons in the Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP) intervention communities. METHODS: BCPP is a cluster-randomized trial designed to evaluate the impact of combination prevention interventions on HIV incidence in 30 communities in Botswana. Community case finding and HIV testing that included home and targeted mobile testing were implemented in the 15 intervention communities. We described processes for identifying HIV-positive persons, uptake of HIV testing by age, gender and venue, characteristics of persons newly diagnosed through BCPP, and coverage of knowledge of status reached at the end of study. RESULTS: Of the 61,655 eligible adults assessed in home or mobile settings, 13,328 HIV-positive individuals, or 93% of the estimated 14,270 positive people in the communities were identified through BCPP. Knowledge of status increased by 25% over the course of the study with the greatest increases seen among men (37%) as compared to women (19%) and among youth aged 16-24 (77%) as compared to older age groups (21%). Although more men were tested through mobile than through home-based testing, higher rates of newly diagnosed HIV-positive men were found through home than mobile testing. CONCLUSIONS: Even when HIV testing coverage is high, additional gains can be made using a multi-modality HIV testing strategy to reach different sub-populations who are being missed by non-targeted program activities. Men and youth can be reached and will engage in community testing when services are brought to places they access routinely. |
Cancer mortality rates among US and foreign-born individuals: United States 2005-2014
Hallowell BD , Endeshaw M , McKenna MT , Senkomago V , Razzaghi H , Saraiya M . Prev Med 2019 126 105755 From 1970 to 2010 the foreign-born population in the United States has rapidly increased from 9.6 to 40.0 million individuals. Historically, differences in cancer rates have been observed between US-born and foreign-born individuals. However, comprehensive and up-to-date data on US cancer rates by birth place is lacking. To compare cancer mortality rates among foreign and US-born individuals, population-based cancer mortality data were obtained from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics. Utilizing data recorded on death certificates, individuals were categorized as US-born or foreign-born. Annual population estimates were obtained from the American Community Survey. Age-adjusted mortality rates and rate ratios (RRs) for all cancer sites were calculated using SEER*Stat. A total of 5,670,535 deaths from malignant cancers were recorded in the US from 2005 to 2014 and 9% of deaths occurred among foreign-born individuals. Overall, foreign-born individuals had a 31% lower cancer mortality rate when compared to US-born individuals (Rate Ratio (RR): 0.69 (95% CI: 0.68-0.69)), and similar results were observed when stratifying by sex, race/ethnicity, age, and geographic region. However, foreign-born individuals did have significantly elevated cancer mortality rates for seven cancers sites, of which five were infection-related, including: nasopharynx (RR: 2.01), Kaposi Sarcoma (RR: 1.94), stomach (RR: 1.82), gallbladder (RR: 1.47), acute lymphocytic leukemia (RR: 1.27), liver and intrahepatic bile duct (RR: 1.24), and thyroid (RR: 1.22) cancers. Many of these deaths could be avoided through improved access to prevention, screening, and treatment services for immigrant populations in the US or in their country of origin. |
Creating a national specimen referral system in Guinea: Lessons from initial development and implementation
Standley CJ , Muhayangabo R , Bah MS , Barry AM , Bile E , Fischer JE , Heegaard W , Koivogui L , Lakiss SK , Sorrell EM , VanSteelandt A , Dahourou AG , Martel LD . Front Public Health 2019 7 83 In the wake of the 2014-2016, West Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, the Government of Guinea recognized an opportunity to strengthen its national laboratory system, incorporating capacity and investments developed during the response. The Ministry of Health (MOH) identified creation of a holistic, safe, secure, and timely national specimen referral system as a priority for improved detection and confirmation of priority diseases, in line with national Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response guidelines. The project consisted of two parts, each led by different implementing partners working collaboratively together and with the Ministry of Health: the development and approval of a national specimen referral policy, and pilot implementation of a specimen referral system, modeled on the policy, in three prefectures. This paper describes the successful execution of the project, highlighting the opportunities and challenges of building sustainable health systems capacity during and after public health emergencies, and provides lessons learned for strengthening national capabilities for surveillance and disease diagnosis. |
Assessing health systems in Guinea for prevention and control of priority zoonotic diseases: A One Health approach
Standley CJ , Carlin EP , Sorrell EM , Barry AM , Bile E , Diakite AS , Keita MS , Koivogui L , Mane S , Martel LD , Katz R . One Health 2019 7 100093 To guide One Health capacity building efforts in the Republic of Guinea in the wake of the 2014-2016 Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak, we sought to identify and assess the existing systems and structures for zoonotic disease detection and control. We partnered with the government ministries responsible for human, animal, and environmental health to identify a list of zoonotic diseases - rabies, anthrax, brucellosis, viral hemorrhagic fevers, trypanosomiasis and highly pathogenic avian influenza - as the country's top priorities. We used each priority disease as a case study to identify existing processes for prevention, surveillance, diagnosis, laboratory confirmation, reporting and response across the three ministries. Results were used to produce disease-specific systems "maps" emphasizing linkages across the systems, as well as opportunities for improvement. We identified brucellosis as a particularly neglected condition. Past efforts to build avian influenza capabilities, which had degraded substantially in less than a decade, highlighted the challenge of sustainability. We observed a keen interest across sectors to reinvigorate national rabies control, and given the regional and global support for One Health approaches to rabies elimination, rabies could serve as an ideal disease to test incipient One Health coordination mechanisms and procedures. Overall, we identified five major categories of gaps and challenges: (1) Coordination; (2) Training; (3) Infrastructure; (4) Public Awareness; and (5) Research. We developed and prioritized recommendations to address the gaps, estimated the level of resource investment needed, and estimated a timeline for implementation. These prioritized recommendations can be used by the Government of Guinea to plan strategically for future One Health efforts, ideally under the auspices of the national One Health Platform. This work demonstrates an effective methodology for mapping systems and structures for zoonotic diseases, and the benefit of conducting a baseline review of systemic capabilities prior to embarking on capacity building efforts. |
Trends in liver cancer mortality in the United States: Dual burden among foreign- and US-born persons
Endeshaw M , Hallowell BD , Razzaghi H , Senkomago V , McKenna MT , Saraiya M . Cancer 2018 125 (5) 726-734 BACKGROUND: Since the mid-1980s, the burden of liver cancer in the United States has doubled, with 31,411 new cases and 24,698 deaths occurring in 2014. Foreign-born individuals may be more likely to die of liver cancer than individuals in the general US-born population because of higher rates of hepatitis B infection, a low socioeconomic position, and language barriers that limit the receipt of early cancer detection and effective treatment. METHODS: To determine whether liver cancer mortality rates were higher among foreign-born individuals versus US-born individuals in the United States, population-based cancer mortality data were obtained from the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Annual population estimates were obtained from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey. Age-adjusted mortality rates and rate ratios (RRs) for liver cancer stratified by birth place were calculated, and the average annual percent change (AAPC) was used to evaluate trends. RESULTS: A total of 198,557 deaths from liver and intrahepatic bile duct cancer were recorded during 2005-2014, and 16% occurred among foreign-born individuals. Overall, foreign-born individuals had a 24% higher risk of liver cancer mortality than US-born individuals (RR, 1.24; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22-1.25). Foreign-born individuals did not have any significant changes in liver cancer mortality rates overall, but among US-born individuals, liver cancer mortality rates significantly increased (AAPC, 2.7; 95% CI, 2.1-3.3). CONCLUSIONS: Efforts that address the major risk factors for liver cancer are needed to help to alleviate the health disparities observed among foreign-born individuals and reverse the increasing trend observed in the US-born population. |
Assessment of a novel bile solubility test and MALDI-TOF for the differentiation of Streptococcus pneumoniae from other mitis group streptococci
Slotved HC , Facklam RR , Fuursted K . Sci Rep 2017 7 (1) 7167 This study assesses a novel bile solubility test and MALDI-TOF for the differentiation of Streptococcus pneumoniae from other mitis group streptococci, including differentiation of S. pneumoniae from Streptococcus pseudopneumoniae. Eighty-four species verified mitis group isolates were subjected to our bile solubility test (which measures and calculates the differences of absorbance in the test tube containing 10% sodium deoxycholate versus a blank control tube, after incubation for 10 minutes at 36 degrees C using a spectrophotometer) and MALDI-TOF MS (both the standard result output and by visual spectra evaluation). Applying a calculated optimal cut-off absorbance-value of 2.1, differentiated S. pneumoniae from all but one other mitis group streptococci (one S. mitis isolate generated an OD-value above 2.1). MALDI-TOF score value identification identified correctly 46 S. pneumoniae and 4 S. pseudopneumoniae but misidentified 16 other mitis group strains. Visual spectra evaluation correctly identified all S. pneumoniae and S. pseudopneumoniae strains but misidentified 13 other mitis group strains. The bile solubility test based on spectrophotometric reading described in this study can differentiate S. pneumoniae from other Streptococcus species. Combining the bile solubility test and the MALDI-TOF spectra results provide a correct identification of all S. pneumoniae and S. pseudopneumoniae isolates. |
Whole genome sequencing of a large panel of contemporary Neisseria gonorrhoeae clinical isolates indicates that a wild-type mtrA gene is common: implications for inducible antimicrobial resistance.
Vidyaprakash E , Abrams AJ , Shafer WM , Trees DL . Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017 61 (4) Previous studies have shown that the expression of the mtrCDE efflux pump operon is inducible at the transcriptional level in gonococci during incubation in sub-lethal concentrations of the nonionic detergent Triton X-100, which along with antibiotics, bile salts, progesterone and antimicrobial peptides, is a substrate of the MtrCDE efflux pump. |
Estimation of the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma in Songkhla, Thailand, 1989-2013, using multiple imputation method
Yeesoonsang S , Bilheem S , McNeil E , Iamsirithaworn S , Jiraphongsa C , Sriplung H . Cancer Res Treat 2017 49 (1) 54-60 PURPOSE: Histological specimens are not required for diagnosis of liver and bile duct (LBD) cancer, resulting in a high percentage of unknown histologies. We compared estimates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) incidences by imputing these unknown histologies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted using data from the Songkhla Cancer Registry, southern Thailand, from 1989 to 2013. Multivariate imputation by chained equations (mice) was used in re-classification of the unknown histologies. Age-standardized rates (ASR) of HCC and CCA by sex were calculated and the trends were compared. RESULTS: Of 2,387 LBD cases, 61% had unknown histology. After imputation, the ASR of HCC in males during 1989 to 2007 increased from 4 to 10 per 100,000 and then decreased after 2007. The ASR of CCA increased from 2 to 5.5 per 100,000, and the ASR of HCC in females decreased from 1.5 in 2009 to 1.3 in 2013 and that of CCA increased from less than 1 to 1.9 per 100,000 by 2013. RESULTS: of complete case analysis showed somewhat similar, although less dramatic, trends. CONCLUSION: In Songkhla, the incidence of CCA appears to be stable after increasing for 20 years whereas the incidence of HCC is now declining. The decline in incidence of HCC among males since 2007 is probably due to implementation of the hepatitis B virus vaccine in the 1990s. The rise in incidence of CCA is a concern and highlights the need for case control studies to elucidate the risk factors. |
Notes from the Field: New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-producing carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae identified in patients without known health care risk factors - Colorado, 2014-2016
Janelle SJ , Kallen A , de Man T , Limbago B , Walters M , Halpin A , Xavier K , Knutsen J , Badolato E , Bamberg WM . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2016 65 (49) 1414-1415 Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are considered an urgent threat in the United States because they are associated with high morbidity and mortality, limited treatment options, and potential for rapid spread among patients (1). Carbapenemases, enzymes that confer resistance to the carbapenem class of antibiotics, are believed to contribute to increasing transmission and regional spread of CRE because the genes encoding these enzymes can reside on mobile plasmids and can be transferred among bacterial species. Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) is the most common carbapenemase seen in the United States, but isolates with the New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) are emerging. Known risk factors for carbapenemase-producing CRE, including NDM, include health care exposures such as hospitalization outside the United States, recent overnight admissions to short-stay and long-term acute care hospitals, residence in long-term care facilities, surgical procedures, and having indwelling devices. Community-associated CRE lack these health care exposures and are rare in the United States (2). During 2014–2016, NDM-producing CRE were isolated from patients in Colorado without known health care risk factors. | The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has conducted statewide laboratory-based surveillance of CRE since November 2012. CRE isolates that are resistant to two or more carbapenems are tested for the KPC and NDM genes by polymerase-chain reaction at the CDPHE laboratory. As of April 2016, Colorado had reported the second highest number of NDM-producing CRE in the United States (3). NDM was first detected in Colorado in 2012 in eight patients during a hospital outbreak (4). Ten additional patients with NDM-producing CRE were identified in Colorado during 2014–2016. Among these 10 patients, the mean age was 64 years (range = 20–85 years); isolates from nine patients were from urine, and in one patient, from bile. Five patients had traveled internationally in the 2 months before specimen collection (two of whom had known hospitalizations during international travel) (Figure). In six patients, the isolate was detected from cultures collected in outpatient settings and lacked the known CRE risk factors of overnight stays in health care settings, dialysis, or surgery in the preceding 12 months, and had no invasive devices in the preceding 2 days (i.e., the isolates were community-associated). |
Annual report to the nation on the status of cancer, 1975-2012, featuring the increasing incidence of liver cancer
Ryerson AB , Eheman CR , Altekruse SF , Ward JW , Jemal A , Sherman RL , Henley SJ , Holtzman D , Lake A , Noone AM , Anderson RN , Ma J , Ly KN , Cronin KA , Penberthy L , Kohler BA . Cancer 2016 122 (9) 1312-37 BACKGROUND: Annual updates on cancer occurrence and trends in the United States are provided through an ongoing collaboration among the American Cancer Society (ACS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries (NAACCR). This annual report highlights the increasing burden of liver and intrahepatic bile duct (liver) cancers. METHODS: Cancer incidence data were obtained from the CDC, NCI, and NAACCR; data about cancer deaths were obtained from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). Annual percent changes in incidence and death rates (age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population) for all cancers combined and for the leading cancers among men and women were estimated by joinpoint analysis of long-term trends (incidence for 1992-2012 and mortality for 1975-2012) and short-term trends (2008-2012). In-depth analysis of liver cancer incidence included an age-period-cohort analysis and an incidence-based estimation of person-years of life lost because of the disease. By using NCHS multiple causes of death data, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and liver cancer-associated death rates were examined from 1999 through 2013. RESULTS: Among men and women of all major racial and ethnic groups, death rates continued to decline for all cancers combined and for most cancer sites; the overall cancer death rate (for both sexes combined) decreased by 1.5% per year from 2003 to 2012. Overall, incidence rates decreased among men and remained stable among women from 2003 to 2012. Among both men and women, deaths from liver cancer increased at the highest rate of all cancer sites, and liver cancer incidence rates increased sharply, second only to thyroid cancer. Men had more than twice the incidence rate of liver cancer than women, and rates increased with age for both sexes. Among non-Hispanic (NH) white, NH black, and Hispanic men and women, liver cancer incidence rates were higher for persons born after the 1938 to 1947 birth cohort. In contrast, there was a minimal birth cohort effect for NH Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs). NH black men and Hispanic men had the lowest median age at death (60 and 62 years, respectively) and the highest average person-years of life lost per death (21 and 20 years, respectively) from liver cancer. HCV and liver cancer-associated death rates were highest among decedents who were born during 1945 through 1965. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, cancer incidence and mortality declined among men; and, although cancer incidence was stable among women, mortality declined. The burden of liver cancer is growing and is not equally distributed throughout the population. Efforts to vaccinate populations that are vulnerable to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and to identify and treat those living with HCV or HBV infection, metabolic conditions, alcoholic liver disease, or other causes of cirrhosis can be effective in reducing the incidence and mortality of liver cancer. (c) |
Hypercholesterolemia with consumption of PFOA-laced Western diets is dependent on strain and sex of mice
Rebholz SL , Jones T , Herrick RL , Xie C , Calafat AM , Pinney SM , Woollett LA . Toxicol Rep 2016 3 46-54 Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a man-made surfactant with a number of industrial applications. It has a long half-life environmentally and biologically. Past studies suggest a direct relationship between plasma cholesterol and PFOA serum concentrations in humans and an inverse one in rodents fed standard rodent chow, making it difficult to examine mechanisms responsible for the potential PFOA-induced hypercholesterolemia and altered sterol metabolism. To examine dietary modification of PFOA-induced effects, C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice were fed PFOA in a fat- and cholesterol-containing diet. When fed these high fat diets, PFOA ingestion resulted in marked hypercholesterolemia in male and female C57BL/6 mice and less robust hypercholesterolemia in male BALB/c mice. The PFOA-induced hypercholesterolemia appeared to be the result of increased liver masses and altered expression of genes associated with hepatic sterol output, specifically bile acid production. mRNA levels of genes associated with sterol input were reduced only in C57BL/6 females, the mice with the greatest increase in plasma cholesterol levels. Strain-specific PFOA-induced changes in cholesterol concentrations in mammary tissues and ovaries paralleled changes in plasma cholesterol levels. mRNA levels of sterol-related genes were reduced in ovaries of C57BL/6 but not in BALB/c mice and not in mammary tissues. Our data suggest that PFOA ingestion leads to hypercholesterolemia in mice fed fat and cholesterol and effects are dependent upon the genetic background and gender of the mice with C57BL/6 female mice being most responsive to PFOA. |
Schistosome-induced cholangiocyte proliferation and osteopontin secretion correlate with fibrosis and portal hypertension in human and murine schistosomiasis mansoni
Pereira TA , Syn WK , Machado MV , Vidigal PV , Resende V , Voieta I , Xie G , Otoni A , Souza MM , Santos ET , Chan IS , Trindade GV , Choi SS , Witek RP , Pereira FE , Secor WE , Andrade ZA , Lambertucci JR , Diehl AM . Clin Sci (Lond) 2015 129 (10) 875-83 Schistosomiasis is a major cause of portal hypertension worldwide. It associates with portal fibrosis that develops during chronic infection. The mechanisms by which the pathogen evokes these host responses remain unclear. We evaluated the hypothesis that schistosome eggs release factors that directly stimulate liver cells to produce osteopontin (OPN), a pro-fibrogenic protein that stimulates hepatic stellate cells to become myofibroblasts. We also investigated the utility of OPN as a biomarker of fibrosis and/or severity of portal hypertension. Cultured cholangiocytes, Kupffer cells and hepatic stellate cells were treated with soluble egg antigen (SEA); OPN production was quantified by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRTPCR) and ELISA; cell proliferation was assessed by BrdU (5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine). Mice were infected with Schistosoma mansoni for 6 or 16 weeks to cause early or advanced fibrosis. Liver OPN was evaluated by qRTPCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) and correlated with liver fibrosis and serum OPN. Livers from patients with schistosomiasis mansoni (early fibrosis n=15; advanced fibrosis n=72) or healthy adults (n=22) were immunostained for OPN and fibrosis markers. Results were correlated with plasma OPN levels and splenic vein pressures. SEA-induced cholangiocyte proliferation and OPN secretion (P<0.001 compared with controls). Cholangiocytes were OPN (+) in Schistosoma-infected mice and humans. Liver and serum OPN levels correlated with fibrosis stage (mice: r=0.861; human r=0.672, P=0.0001) and myofibroblast accumulation (mice: r=0.800; human: r=0.761, P=0.0001). Numbers of OPN (+) bile ductules strongly correlated with splenic vein pressure (r=0.778; P=0.001). S. mansoni egg antigens stimulate cholangiocyte proliferation and OPN secretion. OPN levels in liver and blood correlate with fibrosis stage and portal hypertension severity. |
Cultural and economic motivation of pig raising practices in Bangladesh
Nahar N , Uddin M , Gurley ES , Jahangir Hossain M , Sultana R , Luby SP . Ecohealth 2015 12 (4) 611-20 The interactions that pig raisers in Bangladesh have with their pigs could increase the risk of zoonotic disease transmission. Since raising pigs is a cultural taboo to Muslims, we aimed at understanding the motivation for raising pigs and resulting practices that could pose the risk of transmitting disease from pigs to humans in Bangladesh, a predominantly Muslim country. These understandings could help identify acceptable strategies to reduce the risk of disease transmission from pigs to people. To achieve this objective, we conducted 34 in-depth interviews among pig herders and backyard pig raisers in eight districts of Bangladesh. Informants explained that pig raising is an old tradition, embedded in cultural and religious beliefs and practices, the primary livelihood of pig herders, and a supplemental income of backyard pig raisers. To secure additional income, pig raisers sell feces, liver, bile, and other pig parts often used as traditional medicine. Pig raisers have limited economic ability to change the current practices that may put them at risk of exposure to diseases from their pigs. An intervention that improves their financial situation and reduces the risk of zoonotic disease may be of interest to pig raisers. |
Polio outbreak investigation and response in Somalia, 2013
Kamadjeu R , Mahamud A , Webeck J , Baranyikwa MT , Chatterjee A , Bile YN , Birungi J , Mbaeyi C , Mulugeta A . J Infect Dis 2014 210 Suppl 1 S181-6 BACKGROUND: For >2 decades, conflicts and recurrent natural disasters have maintained Somalia in a chronic humanitarian crisis. For nearly 5 years, 1 million children <10 years have not had access to lifesaving health services, including vaccination, resulting in the accumulation by 2012 of the largest geographically concentrated cohort of unvaccinated children in the world. This article reviews the epidemiology, risk, and program response to what is now known as the 2013 wild poliovirus (WPV) outbreak in Somalia and highlights the challenges that the program will face in making Somalia free of polio once again. METHODS: A case of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) was defined as a child <15 years of age with sudden onset of fever and paralysis. Polio cases were defined as AFP cases with stool specimens positive for WPV. RESULTS: From 9 May to 31 December 2013, 189 cases of WPV type 1 (WPV1) were reported from 46 districts of Somalia; 42% were from Banadir region (Mogadishu), 60% were males, and 93% were <5 years of age. All Somalian polio cases belonged to cluster N5A, which is known to have been circulating in northern Nigeria since 2011. In response to the outbreak, 8 supplementary immunization activities were conducted with oral polio vaccine (OPV; trivalent OPV was used initially, followed subsequently by bivalent OPV) targeting various age groups, including children aged <5 years, children aged <10 years, and individuals of any age. CONCLUSIONS: The current polio outbreak erupted after a polio-free period of >6 years (the last case was reported in March 2007). Somalia interrupted indigenous WPV transmission in 2002, was removed from the list of polio-endemic countries a year later, and has since demonstrated its ability to control polio outbreaks resulting from importation. This outbreak reiterates that the threat of large polio outbreaks resulting from WPV importation will remain constant unless polio transmission is interrupted in the remaining polio-endemic countries. |
Evaluation of dried blood spots collected on filter papers from three manufacturers stored at ambient temperature for application in HIV-1 drug resistance monitoring
Rottinghaus EK , Beard RS , Bile E , Modukanele M , Maruping M , Mine M , Nkengasong J , Yang C . PLoS One 2014 9 (10) e109060 As more HIV-infected people gain access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), monitoring HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) becomes essential to combat both acquired and transmitted HIVDR. Studies have demonstrated dried blood spots (DBS) are a suitable alternative in HIVDR monitoring using DBS collected on Whatman 903 (W-903). In this study, we sought to evaluate two other commercially available filter papers, Ahlstrom 226 (A-226) and Munktell TFN (M-TFN), for HIVDR genotyping following ambient temperature storage. DBS were prepared from remnant blood specimens collected from 334 ART patients and stored at ambient temperature for a median time of 30 days. HIV-1 viral load was determined using NucliSENS EasyQ(R) HIV-1 v2.0 RUO test kits prior to genotyping of the protease and reverse transcriptase regions of the HIV-1 pol gene using an in-house assay. Among the DBS tested, 26 specimens had a viral load ≥1000 copies/mL in all three types of filter paper and were included in the genotyping analysis. Genotyping efficiencies were similar between DBS collected on W-903 (92.3%), A-226 (88.5%), and M-TFN (92.3%) filter papers (P = 1.00). We identified 50 DR-associated mutations in DBS collected on W-903, 33 in DBS collected on A-226, and 48 in DBS collected on M-TFN, resulting in mutation detection sensitivities of 66.0% for A-226 and 88.0% for M-TFN when compared to W-903. Our data indicate that differences among filter papers may exist at this storage condition and warrant further studies evaluating filter paper type for HIVDR monitoring. |
Increase in anti-tuberculosis drug resistance in Botswana: results from the fourth National Drug Resistance Survey
Menzies HJ , Moalosi G , Anisimova V , Gammino V , Sentle C , Bachhuber MA , Bile E , Radisowa K , Kachuwaire O , Basotli J , Maribe T , Makombe R , Shepherd J , Kim B , Samandari T , El-Halabi S , Chirenda J , Cain KP . Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2014 18 (9) 1026-33 SETTING: Although approximately 0.5 million cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) occur globally each year, surveillance data are limited. Botswana is one of the few high TB burden countries to have carried out multiple anti-tuberculosis drug resistance surveys (in 1995-1996, 1999 and 2002). OBJECTIVE: In 2007-2008, we conducted the fourth national survey of anti-tuberculosis drug resistance in Botswana to assess anti-tuberculosis drug resistance, including trends over time. In the previous survey, 0.8% (95% CI 0.4-1.5) of new patients and 10.4% (95%CI 5.6-17.3) of previously treated patients had MDR-TB. DESIGN: During the survey period, eligible specimens from all new sputum-smear positive TB patients and from all TB patients with history of previous anti-tuberculosis treatment underwent mycobacterial culture and anti-tuberculosis drug susceptibility testing (DST). RESULTS: Of 924 new TB patients and 137 with previous anti-tuberculosis treatment with DST results, respectively 23 (2.5%, 95% CI 1.6-3.7) and 9 (6.6%, 95% CI 3.3-11.7) had MDR-TB. The proportion of new TB patients with MDR-TB has tripled in Botswana since the previous survey. CONCLUSION: Combatting drug-resistant TB will require the scale-up of MDR-TB diagnosis and treatment to prevent the transmission of MDR-TB and strengthening of general TB control to prevent the emergence of resistance. |
Molecular characterization of ambiguous mutations in HIV-1 polymerase gene: implications for monitoring HIV infection status and drug resistance.
Zheng DP , Rodrigues M , Bile E , Nguyen DB , Diallo K , Devos JR , Nkengasong JN , Yang C . PLoS One 2013 8 (10) e77649 Detection of recent HIV infections is a prerequisite for reliable estimations of transmitted HIV drug resistance (t-HIVDR) and incidence. However, accurately identifying recent HIV infection is challenging due partially to the limitations of current serological tests. Ambiguous nucleotides are newly emerged mutations in quasispecies, and accumulate by time of viral infection. We utilized ambiguous mutations to establish a measurement for detecting recent HIV infection and monitoring early HIVDR development. Ambiguous nucleotides were extracted from HIV-1 pol-gene sequences in the datasets of recent (HIVDR threshold surveys [HIVDR-TS] in 7 countries; n=416) and established infections (1 HIVDR monitoring survey at baseline; n=271). An ambiguous mutation index of 2.04x10(-3) nts/site was detected in HIV-1 recent infections which is equivalent to the HIV-1 substitution rate (2x10(-3) nts/site/year) reported before. However, significantly higher index (14.41x10(-3) nts/site) was revealed with established infections. Using this substitution rate, 75.2% subjects in HIVDR-TS with the exception of the Vietnam dataset and 3.3% those in HIVDR-baseline were classified as recent infection within one year. We also calculated mutation scores at amino acid level at HIVDR sites based on ambiguous or fitted mutations. The overall mutation scores caused by ambiguous mutations increased (0.54x10(-2)3.48x10(-2)/DR-site) whereas those caused by fitted mutations remained stable (7.50-7.89x10(-2)/DR-site) in both recent and established infections, indicating that t-HIVDR exists in drug-naive populations regardless of infection status in which new HIVDR continues to emerge. Our findings suggest that characterization of ambiguous mutations in HIV may serve as an additional tool to differentiate recent from established infections and to monitor HIVDR emergence. |
Hepatitis E virus isolated from rabbits is genetically heterogeneous but with very similar antigenicity to human HEV.
Wang S , Dong C , Dai X , Cheng X , Liang J , Dong M , Purdy MA , Meng J . J Med Virol 2013 85 (4) 627-35 Rabbit hepatitis E virus (HEV) in China may represent a novel HEV genotype, although no consensus has been reached. It is unclear whether the ORF2 capsid protein containing the immunodominant epitopes from rabbit HEV differs from those of human HEV. In this study, 661 bile samples collected from domestic rabbits in Jiangsu province, eastern China were amplified by RT-nPCR using a set of HEV universal ORF2 primers. All 42 (6.4%) positive PCR products were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis using the ORF2 sequences of 557 bp in length showed the Jiangsu isolates were separate from HEV genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, avian HEV and rat HEV, and clustered together with rabbit HEV sequences. These 42 isolates were divided into five branches including two newly identified in the present study. Comparison with rabbit HEV sequences from China available in GenBank, using a 298 bp ORF2 segment, showed these sequences clustered together into a unique rabbit HEV clade, and were divided into eight sub-branches with high genetic heterogeneity. In addition, 267 serum samples collected from domestic rabbits, serial serum samples from two rhesus monkeys experimentally infected with HEV genotype 1 or 4, and serial serum samples from two New-Zealand rabbits infected experimentally with rabbit HEV were tested simultaneously by EIA using recombinant truncated ORF2 capsid proteins derived from rabbit and human HEV. The virtually identical results obtained suggest that rabbit and human HEV ORF2 antigens contain very similar immunodominant epitopes. All these data are helpful to identify the biological characteristics of the newly identified rabbit HEV. (J. Med. Virol. 85:627-635, 2013. (c) 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.) |
Comparison of Ahlstrom grade 226, Munktell TFN, and Whatman 903 filter papers for dried blood spot specimen collection and subsequent HIV-1 load and drug resistance genotyping analysis.
Rottinghaus E , Bile E , Modukanele M , Maruping M , Mine M , Nkengasong J , Yang C . J Clin Microbiol 2012 51 (1) 55-60 BACKGROUND: Dried blood spots (DBS) collected on filter paper have eased the difficulty of blood collection in resource-limited settings. Currently Whatman 903 (W-903) is the only filter paper that has been used for HIV viral load (VL) and HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) testing. We therefore evaluated two additional commercially available filter papers, Ahlstrom grade 226 (A-226) and Munktell TFN (M-TFN) for VL and HIVDR genotyping using W-903 as a comparison group. METHODS: DBS specimens were generated from 344 adult ART-patients in Botswana. VL was measured with NucliSENS EasyQ HIV-1 v2.0 and genotyping was performed for those specimens with a detectable VL (≥ 2.90 log10 copies/ml) using an in-house method. RESULTS: Bland-Altman analysis revealed strong concordance in quantitative VL analysis between W-903 and A-226 (bias= -0.034 +/- 0.246 log10 copies/ml [Mean difference +/- SD]) and M-TFN (bias = -0.028+/- 0.186 log10 copies/ml) while qualitative VL analysis for virological failure determination, defined as VL ≥ 3.00 log10 copies/ml, showed low sensitivities for A-266 (71.54%) and M-TFN (65.71%) when compared to W-903. DBS collected on M-TFN had the highest genotyping efficiency (100%) compared to W-903 and A-226 (91.7%), and appear more sensitive in detecting major HIVDR mutations. CONCLUSIONS: DBS collected on A-226 and M-TFN filter papers performed similarly to W-903 for quantitative VL analysis and HIVDR detection. Together, the encouraging genotyping results and the variability observed in determining virological failure from this small pilot study warrant further investigation of A-226 and M-TFN as specimen collection devices for HIVDR monitoring surveys. |
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