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This page shows you the most recent publications within this specialty of the MedWorm directory. This is page number 20.

Clostridium difficile 027 infection in Central Italy
Conclusions: Our study shows that CD 027 is emerging in healthcare facilities in Italy. Whilst nosocomial acquisition accounted for the majority of such cases, 4 patients had history of a recent stay in a LTCF. We highlight the substantial risks of this highly transmissible organism in such environments. Moreover, 50% of our patients with CDAD from the 027 strain had high relapse rates which may serve to further establish this strain within the Italian health and social care systems.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 22, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Stefano Di BellaMaria PagliaEmma JohnsonNicola Petrosillo Source Type: research

Plasmodium vivax infection in Anajas, State of Para: no differential resistance profile among Duffy-negative and Duffy-positive individuals
Malaria epidemiology of an interesting region in the Amazon River basin, where it is suggested that essentially all people experience malaria annually. The heterogeneous distribution of Duffy blood group polymorphism in this study site and the high prevalence of P. vivax infection enable an interesting comparison of susceptibility to vivax malaria in Duffy-negative and Duffy-positive people.
Source: Malaria Journal - December 22, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Tarcisio CarvalhoMaíse QueirozGreice CardosoIsabela DinizAylla SilvaAna PintoJoão Guerreiro Source Type: research

Long‐term mortality following bloodstream infection
We describe factors affecting mortality up to 3 years after bloodstream infection in a cohort of patients reviewed at the bedside by an infection specialist. Patients seen by the bacteraemia service of our infectious diseases department between June 2005 and November 2008 were included in analyses. Routine clinical data collected at the time of consultation, together with laboratory, demographic and outcome data were analysed to identify factors predicting death at 30 days and 3 years after bloodstream infection. Cox regression models for both time‐points were constructed, together with Kaplan–Meier survival curves....
Source: Clinical Microbiology and Infection - December 22, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: P. J. Lillie, J. Allen, C. Hall, C. Walsh, K. Adams, H. Thaker, P. Moss, G. D. Barlow Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

All Black People Are Not Alike: Differences in HIV Testing Patterns, Knowledge, and Experience of Stigma Between U.S.-Born and Non–U.S.-Born Blacks in Massachusetts
AIDS Patient Care and STDs , Vol. 0, No. 0.
Source: AIDS Patient Care and STDs - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Tags: article Source Type: research

Honing in on causes and associations of unexplained infant deaths
Approximately 12% of infant deaths in the US have pre-mortem signs and symptoms suggestive of an infectious disease but no definitive infection-related cause of death reported (with or without autopsy) on the death certificate. Such cases are classified as unexplained death due to possible infectious causes (UDPIC). In this issue of The Journal, Taylor et al from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention evaluated 3570 UDPICs reported in the US in 2006 in infants
Source: The Journal of Pediatrics - December 21, 2012 Category: Pediatrics Authors: Sarah S. Long Tags: The Editors' Perspectives Source Type: research

IL28RA polymorphism is associated with early hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment failure in human immunodeficiency virus‐/HCV‐coinfected patients
In conclusion, the IL28RA polymorphism was associated with early treatment failure independently of the IL28B SNPs. The combination of IL28B and IL28RA polymorphisms might be a valuable tool for predicting early treatment failure before starting HCV treatment.
Source: Journal of Viral Hepatitis - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: M. A. Jiménez‐Sousa, J. Berenguer, N. Rallón, M. Guzmán‐Fulgencio, J. C. López, V. Soriano, A. Fernández‐Rodríguez, J. Cosín, C. Restrepo, M. García‐Álvarez, P. Miralles, J. M. Benito, S. Resino Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Commentary
[Ann Emerg Med. 2012;61:94-95.] Gonorrhea, the second most common cause of bacterial STDs, is commonly encountered in emergency departments (EDs). Given the potential morbidity, particularly in women because of pelvic inflammatory disease, and potential for continued transmission associated with untreated urogenital gonococcal infections, early recognition and initiation of effective treatment is critical. Unfortunately, N gonorrhoeae has acquired resistance to many antibiotics; most recently, there has been increasing resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. Because of this resistance, the CDC updated its 2010 guid...
Source: Annals of Emergency Medicine - December 21, 2012 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Nicholas G. Maldonado, Sukhjit S. Takhar Tags: Infectious Disease Source Type: research

Update to the CDC's Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines, 2010: Oral Cephalosporins No Longer a Recommended Treatment for Gonococcal Infections
[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Update to the CDC's sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2010: oral cephalosporins no longer a recommended treatment for gonococcal infections, 2012. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2012;61:590-594.]
Source: Annals of Emergency Medicine - December 21, 2012 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Tags: Infectious Disease Source Type: research

Perennial Flu Vaccine Gets Closer
Every fall, you need a new flu shot. That's because today's vaccines train your immune system to recognize specific strains of flu--identified by two proteins on the virus's coat: hemagglutinin and neuraminidase. That's where the 'H' and 'N' come from in H1N1. [More]
Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed - December 21, 2012 Category: Science Tags: More Science,Chemistry,Health,Pharmaceuticals,More Science,Evolutionary Biology,Infectious Diseases,Biology Source Type: research

Identification of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus using an integrated and modular microfluidic system
, 2012, Accepted ManuscriptDOI: 10.1039/C2AN36430A, PaperSteven A SoperMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major cause of hospital-acquired (HA-MRSA) infection worldwide. As a result, the rapid and specific detection of MRSA is crucial not only for early prevention...The content of this RSS Feed (c) The Royal Society of Chemistry
Source: RSC - Analyst latest articles - December 21, 2012 Category: Chemistry Authors: Steven A Soper Source Type: research

HIV-1 integrase resistance among antiretroviral treatment naive and experienced patients from Northwestern Poland
Conclusions: In InI treatment naive patients polymorphic integrase sequence variation was common, with no major resistance mutants. In the treatment failing patients selection of drug resistance occurred rapidly, and followed the typical drug resistance pathways. Preexisting integrase polymorphisms were not associated with the treatment failure.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Mi¿osz ParczewskiDorota BanderAnna Urba¿skaAnna Boro¿-Kaczmarska Source Type: research

Association between early bacterial carriage and otitis media in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children in a semi-arid area of Western Australia: a cohort study
Conclusion: Early NTHi carriage in Aboriginal children and Mcat in non-Aboriginal children is associated with increased risk of OM independent of environmental factors. In addition to addressing environmental risk factors for carriage such as overcrowding and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, early administration of pneumococcal-Haemophilus influenzae D protein conjugate vaccine to reduce bacterial carriage in infants, may be beneficial for Aboriginal children; such an approach is currently being evaluated in Australia.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Wenxing SunPeter JacobyThomas RileyJacinta BowmanAmanda LeachHarvey CoatesSharon WeeksAllan CrippsDeborah Lehmann Source Type: research

Prevalence of low-risk HPV types and genital warts in women born 1988/89 or 1983/84 -results of WOLVES, a population-based epidemiological study in Wolfsburg, Germany
Conclusions: HC2 was a specific test for the detection of established and potential LR types. In this first WOLVES analysis, HPV6 was the most frequent HPV type and the single LR type linked to disease. The observed GW incidence of 715 per 100,000 fits well with estimates of healthcare providers. Although life risks for GW were lower than in Scandinavian analyses, the societal burden within the WOLVES populations was considerable.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Karl Ulrich PetryAlexander LuytenAnnika JustusAngelika IftnerSarah StrehlkeRenate Schulze-RathThomas Iftner Source Type: research

Malaria surveillance-response strategies in different transmission zones of the People's Republic of China: preparing for climate change
The authors present a prediction map of P. vivax malaria transmission in China and discuss its implications for future malaria control and elimination within the country, particularly within the context of past and future climate scenarios.
Source: Malaria Journal - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Guo-Jing YangMarcel TannerJürg UtzingerJohn MaloneRobert BergquistEmily ChanQi GaoXiao-Nong Zhou Source Type: research

Standardization and validation of a cytometric bead assay to assess antibodies to multiple Plasmodium falciparum recombinant antigens
With optimization, the cytometric bead assay may be the preferred method of testing for antibodies to P. falciparum antigens, as the assay can test for antibodies to multiple recombinant antigens from a single plasma sample and produces a greater range of values in positive samples.
Source: Malaria Journal - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Bartholomew OndigoGregory ParkSeverin GoseBenjamin HoLyticia OcholaGeorge AyodoAyub OfullaChandy John Source Type: research

Simultaneous determination of phagocytosis of Plasmodium falciparum-parasitized and non-parasitized red blood cells by flow cytometry
The development of a phagocytosis assay using flow cytometry is described, which allows for discrimination between non-parasitized and parasitized red blood cells (RBCs).Overall, a sensitive and rapid assay is presented, which may help to understand the pathogenesis of severe malaria in a better way.
Source: Malaria Journal - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Valentina GalloOleksii SkorokhodEvelin SchwarzerPaolo Arese Source Type: research

Expression of a type B RIFIN in Plasmodium falciparum merozoites and gametes
The paper presents evidence to support the presence of Type B Rifins on the surface of merozoites and gametes. This is useful information as it builds a picture of the role of multigene families both in evading the host immune response and, potentially, providing specialized functions for these specific life-cycle stages.
Source: Malaria Journal - December 21, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Steven MwakalingaChristian WangDominique BengtssonLouise TurnerBismarck DinkoJohn LusinguDavid ArnotColin SutherlandThor TheanderThomas Lavstsen Source Type: research

Norovirus Survives Restaurant Dishwashing Protocols
Thinking of eating out over the holidays? Well, you might consider bringing your own plate. Because a new study shows that the typical dishwashing procedures used by most restaurants can’t wash away viruses that can cause some serious stomach distress. Those unsavory findings are served up in the journal PLoS ONE . [Lizanel Feliciano et al, Efficacies of Sodium Hypochlorite and Quaternary Ammonium Sanitizers for Reduction of Norovirus and Selected Bacteria during Ware-Washing Operations ] [More]
Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed - December 20, 2012 Category: Science Tags: Health,Chemistry,Infectious Diseases,Everyday Science,More Science,Biology,Health Source Type: research

Lower respiratory tract hemorrhage associated with 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus infection
Conclusions During influenza season, clinicians should consider influenza infection in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with hemoptysis or other signs or symptoms of LRTH. While the impact of timing of antiviral therapy on this complication has not been studied, the rapid progression of LRTH may support use of early empiric therapy. Continued investigation is necessary to betterdefine the clinical spectrum of both seasonal influenza‐ and pH1N1‐associated LRTH.
Source: Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Erin D. Kennedy, Monika Roy, Jeffrey Norris, Alicia M. Fry, Mitul Kanzaria, Dianna M. Blau, Wun‐Ju Shieh, Sherif R. Zaki, Kirsten Waller, Laurie Kamimoto, Lyn Finelli, Michael A. Jhung, Tags: Short Article Source Type: research

The Top 10 Science Stories of 2012
Many more than 10 events took place during 2012 that reveal how science and technology play integral roles in our lives. As a broad topic, climate change took center stage, offering many possible choices, including efforts to combat it head-on with a rogue geoengineering experiment meant to suck carbon dioxide out of the air as well as efforts to develop clean energy, such as the creation of microbes that convert seaweed into ethanol . [More]
Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed - December 20, 2012 Category: Science Tags: More Science,Chemistry,Environment,Health,Physics,Space,Infectious Diseases,Society & Policy,More Science,Energy Sustainability,Space Exploration,Climate,Biology,Technology Source Type: research

What is the Best Antimicrobial Treatment for Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia (Including the Role of Steroids and Statins and Other Immunomodulatory Agents)
This article reviews recent data regarding different treatments including antimicrobials and adjunctive therapies in patients with severe CAP.
Source: Infectious Diseases Clinics of North America - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Oriol Sibila, Marcos I. Restrepo, Antonio Anzueto Source Type: research

Some strains of hospital-associated staphylococcus aureus (HA-MRSA) have potentiality to damage keratinocyte to induce recurrent infections
Lethal nosocominal infections caused by multiple antibiotic-resistant bacteria are still of concern world-wide. Hospital-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (HA-MRSA) is one of the primary causative agents of these infections. An understanding of antibiotic-resistance acquisition has been growing steadily, but there are few reports concerning HA-MRSA virulence because the danger of HA-MRSA infections has been primarily confined to immune-compromised persons in healthcare facilities and HA-MRSA is regarded as being less virulent than community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) which infects individuals with no pred...
Source: Journal of Dermatological Science - December 20, 2012 Category: Dermatology Authors: Minoru Fukuda, Tadashi Baba, Yuki Katayama, Teruyo Itou, Junko Kawasaki, Keiko Maeda, Chiharu Nishiyama, Hiroko Ushio, keiichi Hiramatsu, Hideoki Ogawa Tags: Abstracts from the 37th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology Source Type: research

Monocyclic β-lactams as antibacterial agents: Facing antioxidant activity of N-methylthio-azetidinones.
Abstract A series of N-methylthio-β-lactams with antibacterial activity were thoroughly evaluated as antioxidants. We found that only the presence of a polyphenolic moiety anchored to the β-lactam ring ensured an adequate antioxidant potency. New compounds, efficiently combining in one structure antioxidant and antibacterial activity, may provide a promising basis for the development of new leads useful in adverse clinical conditions such as in cystic fibrosis patients, in whom colonization by MRSA and epithelial damage by chronic pulmonary oxidative stress take place. PMID: 23314047 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry - December 20, 2012 Category: Chemistry Authors: Cervellati R, Galletti P, Greco E, Cocuzza CE, Musumeci R, Bardini L, Paolucci F, Pori M, Soldati R, Giacomini D Tags: Eur J Med Chem Source Type: research

Synthesis and antibacterial evaluation of rhodanine-based 5-aryloxy pyrazoles against selected methicillin resistant and quinolone-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA and QRSA).
Abstract With an intention to synergize the anti-bacterial activity of 5-aryloxy pyrazole and rhodanine derivatives, eight series of hybrid compounds have been synthesized and evaluated for their antibacterial activity. The majority of the synthesized compounds showed good inhibitory activity against selected methicillin resistant and quinolone-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, QRSA) with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the range of 1-32 μg/mL. The cytotoxicity test suggests that these compounds exhibited in vitro antibacterial activity at non-cytotoxic concentrations. These studies therefo...
Source: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry - December 20, 2012 Category: Chemistry Authors: Song MX, Zheng CJ, Deng XQ, Sun LP, Wu Y, Hong L, Li YJ, Liu Y, Wei ZY, Jin MJ, Piao HR Tags: Eur J Med Chem Source Type: research

Identification of an optimized panel of variable number tandem-repeat (VNTR) loci for Listeria monocytogenes typing
Abstract: Listeria monocytogenes is an important worldwide foodborne pathogen. For listeriosis outbreak investigations, an optimal multiple-locus variable-number-tandem-repeat analysis typing panel was identified from 4 previously reported schemes. The optimal combination of loci consisted of 9 loci (LMV6, LMV1, LMV2, Lm11, Lm10, LMV7, Lm32, LM-TR6, and Lm23), which produced the same level of differentiation ability Simpson index of 0.9914 as that of all 14 loci combined in the previous 4 reports. This panel provided higher differentiation ability than the individual of the 4 previously reported schemes, suggesting it woul...
Source: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Xiujuan Li, Bixing Huang, Sofroni Eglezos, Trudy Graham, Barry Blair, John Bates Tags: Notes Source Type: research

Acanthamoeba encephalitis in a patient with systemic lupus treated with rituximab
Abstract: Acanthamoeba species are free-living protozoa that can infect humans and animals. Acanthamoeba can cause serious central nervous system infections in immunocompromised hosts. Here we report a case of Acanthamoeba encephalitis in a patient with lupus nephritis, 1 month after completing a course of rituximab, an anti-CD20 chimeric antibody.
Source: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Ahmed M. Alkhunaizi, M. Fawaz Dawamneh, Ramzi W. Banda, Riyadh A. Daabil, Jaffar A. Al-Tawfiq, Salah A. Akkad, Ali H. Boukhamseen Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

Characterization of resistance mechanisms and genetic relatedness of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from blood, Italy
Abstract: The aim of this study was to characterize the resistance mechanisms and genetic relatedness of 21 carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii blood isolates collected in Italy during a 1-year multicenter prospective surveillance study. Genes coding for carbapenemase production were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multiplex PCRs for group identification, and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were used to determine genetic relationships. Carbapenem resistance was consistently related to the production of oxacillinases, mostly the plasmid-mediat...
Source: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Roberta Migliavacca, Paula Espinal, Luigi Principe, Monica Drago, Giulia Fugazza, Ignasi Roca, Elisabetta Nucleo, Silvia Bracco, Jordi Vila, Laura Pagani, Francesco Luzzaro Tags: Antimicrobial Susceptibility Studies Source Type: research

Severe falciparum malaria with dengue coinfection complicated by rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury: an unusual case with myoglobinemia, myoglobinuria but normal serum creatine kinase
Conclusion: In patients with severe falciparum malaria, the absence of raised CK alone does not exclude a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis. Raised serum and urine myoglobin levels could lead to AKI and should be monitored. In the event of myoglobin-induced AKI requiring dialysis, clinicians may consider using high-flux hemodiafiltration instead of conventional hemodialysis for more effective myoglobin removal. In Southeast Asia, potential endemic coinfections that can also cause or worsen rhabdomyolysis, such as dengue, rickettsiosis and leptospirosis, should be considered.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Kok YongBan TanChian Low Source Type: research

Coronavirus infections in hospitalized pediatric patients with acute respiratory tract disease
Conclusion: The results of our study show that HCoV are frequently detected human pathogens, often associated with other respiratory viruses and acute respiratory tract infections in hospitalized children. An association between age and the viral load was found. The highest viral load was detected in children approximately 10 months of age.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Monika Jev¿nikTina Ur¿i¿Nina ¿igonLara LusaUro¿ KrivecMiroslav Petrovec Source Type: research

Performance of two Aspergillus IgG EIA assays compared to the precipitin test in chronic and allergic aspergillosis
ConclusionsBoth ImmunoCap and Platelia Aspergillus IgG EIAs are sensitive measures of Aspergillus IgG antibodies compared to CIE. However, ImmunoCap appears to have better reproducibility and may be more suitable for monitoring patient disease.© 2012 The Authors Clinical Microbiology and Infection © 2012 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Source: Clinical Microbiology and Infection - December 20, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Caroline G. Baxter, David W. Denning, Andrew M. Jones, Anthony Todd, Caroline B. Moore, Malcolm D. Richardson Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Pleiotropic virulence factor – Streptococcus pyogenes fibronectin‐binding proteins
Summary Streptococcus pyogenes causes a broad spectrum of infectious diseases, including pharyngitis, skin infections and invasive necrotizing fasciitis. The initial phase of infection involves colonization, followed by intimate contact with the host cells, thus promoting bacterial uptake by them. S. pyogenes recognizes fibronectin (Fn) through its own Fn‐binding proteins to obtain access to epithelial and endothelial cells in host tissue. Fn‐binding proteins bind to Fn to form a bridge to α5β1‐integrins, which leads to rearrangement of cytoskeletal actin in host cells and uptake of invading S. pyogenes. Recent...
Source: Cellular Microbiology - December 20, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Masaya Yamaguchi, Yutaka Terao, Shigetada Kawabata Tags: Microreview Source Type: research

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as treatment for acute respiratory failure and subsequent pneumothorax caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a kidney transplant recipient
We present our experience using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as treatment for ARF and subsequent pneumothorax caused by PJP in a kidney transplant recipient.
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Y.‐S. Wu, N.‐C. Lin, I.‐M. Chen, S.‐C. Chang, F.‐D. Wang, Y.‐C. Huang, T.‐H. Wu, C.‐C. Loong Tags: Case report Source Type: research

Impaired glucose tolerance in rat islet isograft recipients after cytomegalovirus infection
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: M.J. Smelt, B.J. Haan, M.M. Faas, A. Haan, P. Vos Tags: Letter to the Editor Source Type: research

Microbiologically documented infections in patients undergoing high‐dose melphalan and autologous stem cell transplantation for the treatment of light chain amyloidosis
ConclusionSerum creatinine >2 mg/dL is a risk factor for infections in patients with AL amyloidosis undergoing HDM/SCT. The relative risk of TRM in a patient with a documented infection was increased >3‐fold. A broad spectrum of infections, similar to that in other SCT patients, is seen in this population in the early post‐SCT period.
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: S. Taimur, C. Nader, C. Lloyd‐Travaglini, D.C. Seldin, V. Sanchorawala Tags: Original Report Source Type: research

Extended follow‐up of an antibiotic cycling program for the management of febrile neutropenia in a hematologic malignancy and hematopoietic cell transplantation unit
ConclusionsAntibiotic cycling for neutropenic fever was effectively implemented and followed over an extended time period. Gram‐negative resistance remained stable, but there is some concern for selection of resistant gram‐positive bacteria, specifically VRE. Although antibiotic cycling did not seem to cause resistance in our study, further study is necessary to clarify the effect of cycling on antibiotic resistance, patient outcomes, and hospital cost.
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: A. Cumpston, M. Craig, M. Hamadani, J. Abraham, G.R. Hobbs, A.R. Sarwari Tags: Original Report Source Type: research

Disseminated toxoplasmosis presenting as septic shock five weeks after renal transplantation
Abstract We discuss a case of acute disseminated toxoplasmosis in a renal transplant recipient presenting with septic shock. Our literature review of disseminated toxoplasmosis presenting as septic shock reveals a disease process that is rapid and almost uniformly fatal. This unusual presentation warrants a high index of suspicion in transplant recipients with immediate administration of appropriate empiric antimicrobials.
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: L.B. Vaughan, R.P. Wenzel Tags: Case report Source Type: research

Disseminated toxoplasmosis after allogeneic stem cell transplantation in a seronegative recipient
Abstract Toxoplasmosis is increasingly diagnosed after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. In the majority of cases, reactivation of latent disease secondary to impaired cellular and humoral immunity after HSCT is believed to be the main pathogenetic mechanism. Hence, primary toxoplasmosis is rarely considered in the differential diagnosis of infections after HSCT in a recipient who is seronegative for Toxoplasma gondii pre‐transplant. We herein report a seronegative patient with acute T‐cell lymphoblastic leukemia, who developed primary disseminat...
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: M. Osthoff, E. Chew, A. Bajel, G. Kelsey, Y. Panek‐Hudson, K. Mason, J. Szer, D. Ritchie, M. Slavin Tags: Case report Source Type: research

Acute kidney injury after myeloablative cord blood transplantation in adults: the efficacy of strict monitoring of vancomycin serum trough concentrations
ConclusionThese findings suggest that strict monitoring of VCM serum trough concentrations has a beneficial effect on outcomes of CBT.
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 20, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: H. Mae, J. Ooi, S. Takahashi, S. Kato, T. Kawakita, Y. Ebihara, K. Tsuji, F. Nagamura, H. Echizen, A. Tojo Tags: Original Report Source Type: research

Development of a High-Throughput Cell-Based Assay for Identification of IL-17 Inhibitors
Human interleukin 17 (IL-17) is a proinflammatory cytokine derived mainly from activated T cells. Extensive evidence points to a significant role of IL-17 in many autoimmune and infectious diseases, as well as tumorigenesis and transplant rejection, and suggests that targeting IL-17 could be a promising therapeutic strategy. Robust cell-based assays would thus be essential for lead identification and the optimization of therapeutic candidates. Herein, we report a well-characterized two-step assay, consisting of (a) in vitro activation and stimulation of CD4+ T lymphocytes by a defined complex of antibodies and cytokines, l...
Source: Journal of Biomolecular Screening - December 20, 2012 Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Dobritsa, S. V., Kuok, I. T., Nguyen, H., Webster, J. C., Spragg, A. M., Morley, T., Carr, G. J. Tags: Original Research Source Type: research

Structure and ligand-binding properties of the biogenic amine-binding protein from the saliva of a blood-feeding insect vector of Trypanosoma cruzi
Proteins that bind small-molecule mediators of inflammation and hemostasis are essential for blood-feeding by arthropod vectors of infectious disease. In ticks and triatomine insects, the lipocalin protein family is greatly expanded and members have been shown to bind biogenic amines, eicosanoids and ADP. These compounds are potent mediators of platelet activation, inflammation and vascular tone. In this paper, the structure of the amine-binding protein (ABP) from Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of the trypanosome that causes Chagas disease, is described. ABP binds the biogenic amines serotonin and norepinephrine with high aff...
Source: Acta Crystallographica Section D - December 20, 2012 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Xu, X.Chang, B.W.Mans, B.J.Ribeiro, J.M.C.Andersen, J.F. Tags: lipocalins Rhodnius prolixus Triatominae serotonin norepinephrine tryptamine nitrophorin research papers Source Type: research

Examining self and partners for syphilis among men who have sex with men: five US cities, 2009-2011
To increase self-examination for syphilis among men who have sex with men (MSM), we developed educational materials to increase knowledge of primary and secondary syphilis manifestations. Materials were piloted in five cities’ infectious disease or MSM clinics. Self- and partner-examination behaviour was assessed with an anonymous questionnaire. Of 1459 participants, 914 men had had sex with a man in the previous three months; the 171 MSM who reported having read the materials were significantly more likely to examine themselves (anus, adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 1.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15–1.52)...
Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS - December 20, 2012 Category: Global & Universal Authors: Surie, D., Furness, B. W., Hernandez-Kline, P., Turner, A., Perkins, R. C., Taylor, M. M., Brewer, T., Workowski, K., Gamerdinger, K., Markowitz, L. E., Koumans, E. H. Tags: Original research articles Source Type: research

Non/infectious corporealities: tensions in the biomedical era of ‘HIV normalisation’
This article explores the nascent trajectory from infectious to non‐infectious corporeality against the backdrop of the discursive history of HIV, with particular focus on the landmark Swiss Consensus Statement, and in the context of research with heterosexuals with HIV in Australia. In‐depth interviews revealed that HIV corporeality was not a stable, homogenised experience across participants and time, nor did it simply follow medical discourses. Instead, HIV corporeality emerged as a contingent set of tensions between conflicting discourses of infectiousness that were negotiated and made sense of within situated and ...
Source: Sociology of Health and Illness - December 20, 2012 Category: Global & Universal Authors: Asha Persson Source Type: research

Introduction: Why a Sociology of Pandemics?
Abstract Infectious disease has re‐emerged as a public health threat in an increasingly globalised era, adding trans‐national actors to traditional national and local government actors. This special issue showcases new sociological work in response to this challenge. The contributors have investigated the social construction of new and re‐emerging diseases; the development of surveillance systems, public health governance; the impact of scientific/technical modalities on uncertainty and risk, the interplay of infectious disease, public health and national security concerns, and public and media responses. The case st...
Source: Sociology of Health and Illness - December 20, 2012 Category: Global & Universal Authors: Robert Dingwall, Lily M. Hoffman, Karen Staniland Source Type: research

Indigenous populations health protection: A Canadian perspective
The disproportionate effects of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic on many Canadian Aboriginal communities have drawn attention to the vulnerability of these communities in terms of health outcomes in the face of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases. Exploring the particular challenges facing these communities is essential to improving public health planning. In alignment with the objectives of the Pandemic Influenza Outbreak Research Modelling (Pan-InfORM) team, a Canadian public health workshop was held at the Centre for Disease Modelling (CDM) to: (i) evaluate post-pandemic research findings; (ii) identify existing gaps in k...
Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles - December 20, 2012 Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Katya RichardsonMichelle DriedgerNick PizziJianhong WuSeyed Moghadas Source Type: research

Should Health Organizations Use Web 2.0 Media in Times of an Infectious Disease Crisis? An In-depth Qualitative Study of Citizens’ Information Behavior During an EHEC Outbreak
Conclusions: During an infectious disease outbreak, our small sample of students did not see social media (like Facebook and Twitter) as suitable or reliable sources for communicating information, but primarily viewed them as a tool for communicating with friends. Wikis, however, did fill several information needs, especially when citizens are actively searching for information. For many, source credibility is an important asset of information usefulness. Finally, we provide several general recommendations for communicating with citizens during an infectious disease outbreak.
Source: Journal of Medical Internet Research - December 20, 2012 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Lex van VelsenJulia E.W.C. van Gemert-PijnenDesirée J.M.A. BeaujeanJobke WentzelJim E. van Steenbergen Source Type: research

Correlation of anti-fungal susceptibility with clinical outcomes in patients with cryptococcal meningitis
Conclusions: The MICs of fluconazole, determined by the CLSI method, may be a potential predictor of therapeutic cure in patients with cryptococcal meningitis.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Chen-Hsiang LeeTzu-Yao ChangJien-Wei LiuFang-Ju ChenChun-Chih ChienYa-Fen TangCheng-Hsien Lu Source Type: research

Associated factors for recommending HBV vaccination to children among Georgian health care workers
Conclusion: Vaccinating health care workers against HBV may provide a dual benefit by boosting occupational safety as well as strengthening universal coverage programs for newborns.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Maia ButsashviliGeorge KamkamidzeMarina TopuridzeDale MorseWayne TrinerJack DeHovitzKenrad NelsonLouise-Anne McNutt Source Type: research

Occurrence of AH1N1 viral infection and clinical features in symptomatic patients who received medical care during the 2009 influenza pandemic in Central Mexico
Conclusion: This study identified various signs and symptoms for the clinical diagnosis of AH1N1 influenza and revealed that some of them can be age-specific.
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases - December 20, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Juan Castillo-PalenciaLucie LaflammeJoel Monárrez-Espino Source Type: research

NIH taps vaccine expert Belshe for council post
After receiving funding for decades from the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Robert Belshe is joining its National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Council. An expert in vaccines, Belshe is director of Saint Louis University’s Center for Vaccine Development. It’s his first appointment to an NIH council. Belshe will serve a four-year term and help guide the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Council’s research priorities. Belshe has been funded by NIH since 1989 as the principal…
Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Pharmaceuticals headlines - December 19, 2012 Category: Pharmaceuticals Authors: Samantha Liss Source Type: research

Clinical Scoring Tools: Which Is Best to Predict Clinical Response and Long-Term Outcomes?
This article reviews the most relevant clinical outcomes in hospitalized patients with CAP and outlines the role of these scores as tools to help physicians predict these outcomes.
Source: Infectious Diseases Clinics of North America - December 19, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Timothy Wiemken, Robert Kelley, Julio Ramirez Source Type: research