Infectious Diseases Research This is an OPML file. It can be used to export all the MedWorm RSS feeds on this topic into your personal RSS reader (usually you have to save this file to your own computer before clicking on an Import OPML command in your own feed reader to upload the file which will then import all the feeds) or it can be used by webmasters to integrate MedWorm feeds with their own website. This is an RSS file. You can use it to subscribe to this data in your favourite RSS reader, such as GoogleReader, or to display this data on your own website or blog. Subscribe to this data using MyMedWorm.Subscribe to this data using GoogleReader.Subscribe to this data using Bloglines.Subscribe to this data using MyYahoo.

This page shows you the most recent publications within this specialty of the MedWorm directory. This is page number 28.

The overexpression of the trypanosomatid-exclusive TcRBP19 RNA-binding protein affects cellular infection by Trypanosoma cruzi.
Abstract To characterise the trypanosomatid-exclusive RNA-binding protein TcRBP19, we analysed the phenotypic changes caused by its overexpression. Although no evident changes were observed when TcRBP19 was ectopically expressed in epimastigotes, the metacyclogenesis process was affected. Notably, TcRBP19 overexpression also led to a decrease in the number of infected mammalian cells. These findings suggest that TcRBP19 may be involved in the life cycle progression of the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite. PMID: 23295764 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Pérez-Díaz L, Correa A, Moretão MP, Goldenberg S, Dallagiovanna B, Garat B Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Vector biology prospects in dengue research.
Abstract We argue that using more natural blood feeding methods to study mosquito vector competence for dengue viruses and exploring the effect of viral infection on other mosquito life-history traits that influence vectorial capacity will significantly advance our understanding of dengue epidemiology. PMID: 23295765 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Lambrechts L, Failloux AB Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Foreword.
PMID: 23283445 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Pirmez C, Moraes MO, Spencer JS Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Leprosy frequency in the world, 1999-2010.
Abstract In 1991, the World Health Organization (WHO) committed to reducing the prevalence of leprosy to below 1 in 10,000 inhabitants by 2000. Significant improvements in leprosy control have occurred, but leprosy remains a public health problem in many countries due to its high incidence and rate of transmission. This paper reviews data published by the WHO in the years 2000, 2005 and 2010. These data sets included 148 countries or territories that reported to the WHO at least once. Only four countries reported higher prevalence rates in 2010 than in 2000 and eight reported higher case detection rate (CDR) in 200...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Penna ML, Penna GO Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Hansen's disease: a vanishing disease?
Abstract The introduction, implementation, successes and failures of multidrug therapy (MDT) in all Hansen's disease endemic countries are discussed in this paper. The high efficacy of leprosy treatment with MDT and the global reduction of prevalence led the World Health Organization, in 1991, to establish the goal of elimination of Hansen's disease (less than 1 patient per 10,000 inhabitants) to be accomplished by the year 2000. Brazil, Nepal and East Timor are among the few countries that didn't reach the elimination goal by the year 2000 or even 2005. The implications of these aspects are highlighted in this pap...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Talhari S, Grossi MA, Oliveira ML, Gontijo B, Talhari C, Penna GO Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Historic aspects of human susceptibility to leprosy and the risk of conjugal transmission.
This article reviews the historic epidemiologic descriptions of risk for leprosy transmission in married couples compared to other family members. Although uncommon, conjugal leprosy occurs and at higher rates in populations with traditional familial intermarriage and consanguinity. PMID: 23283448 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Joyce MP Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

A clinical trial for uniform multidrug therapy for leprosy patients in Brazil: rationale and design.
Abstract Leprosy will continue to be a public health problem for several decades. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that, for treatment purposes, leprosy cases be classified as either paucibacillary or multibacillary (MB). A uniform leprosy treatment regimen would simplify treatment and halve the treatment duration for MB patients. The clinical trial for uniform multidrug therapy (U-MDT) for leprosy patients (LPs) in Brazil is a randomised, open-label clinical trial to evaluate if the effectiveness of U-MDT for leprosy equals the regular regimen, to determine the acceptability of the U-MDT regimen and ...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Penna GO, Pontes MA, Cruz R, Gonçalves Hde S, Penna ML, Bührer-Sékula S Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Leprosy, a neglected disease that causes a wide variety of clinical conditions in tropical countries.
Abstract Leprosy is an ancient disease that remains endemic and continues to be a major public health problem in some tropical countries, where it has been internationally recognized as being linked to the underdevelopment conditions. The natural course of the disease covers a wide variety of clinical conditions with systemic involvement. In this paper, we review the findings obtained in studies of the pathological mechanisms of leprosy, including a survey of the literature and of our own work. The understanding and control of the wide variety of clinical conditions should help improve patient care and thus prevent...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Foss NT, Motta AC Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Erythema multiforme in leprosy.
Abstract The clinical course of leprosy is often interrupted by reactions, which are acute inflammatory episodes that can be classified as type I or type II. Type II reactions can present as cutaneous lesions that resemble erythema multiforme (EM). EM is classically associated with drug allergies or pre-existing viral infections. However, the differential diagnostic criteria of the diverse causative agents remain controversial. The aim of this study was to determine both the clinical relevance and the morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics of the EM-like lesions during the course of type II leprosy r...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Miranda AM, Antunes SL, Nery JA, Sales AM, Pereira MJ, Sarno EN Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

The role of human T cell lymphotrophic virus type 1, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus coinfections in leprosy.
Abstract Leprosy spectrum and outcome is associated with the host immune response against Mycobacterium leprae. The role of coinfections in leprosy patients may be related to a depression of cellular immunity or amplification of inflammatory responses. Leprosy remains endemic in several regions where human T cell lymphotrophic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) are also endemic. We have evaluated the evidence for the possible role of these viruses in the clinical manifestations and outcomes of leprosy. HTLV-1, HBV and HCV are associated with leprosy in some regions and institu...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Machado PR, Johnson WD, Glesby MJ Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Characteristics of leprosy diagnosed through the surveillance of contacts: a comparison with index cases in Rio de Janeiro, 1987-2010.
Abstract Contact surveillance is an important strategy to ensure effective early diagnosis and control of leprosy; passive detection may not be as efficient because it is directly tied to the ready availability of heath care services and health education campaigns. The aim of this study was to reinforce that contact surveillance is the most effective strategy for the control of leprosy. The analysed data were obtained from a cohort of contacts and cases diagnosed through a national referral service for leprosy. We analysed data from patients diagnosed between 1987-2010 at the Souza Araújo Ambulatory in Rio de Jane...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Hacker Mde A, Duppre NC, Nery JA, Sales AM, Sarno EN Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Unveiling healthy carriers and subclinical infections among household contacts of leprosy patients who play potential roles in the disease chain of transmission.
Abstract Leprosy transmission still occurs despite the availability of highly effective treatment. The next step towards successfully eliminating leprosy is interrupting the chain of transmission of the aetiological agent, Mycobacterium leprae. In this investigation, we provide evidence that household contacts (HHCs) of leprosy patients might not only have subclinical infections, but may also be actively involved in bacilli transmission. We studied 444 patients and 1,352 contacts using anti-phenolic glycolipid-I (PGL-I) serology and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to test for M. leprae DNA in nasal sw...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Araújo S, Lobato J, Reis Ede M, Souza DO, Gonçalves MA, Costa AV, Goulart LR, Goulart IM Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

High rates of undiagnosed leprosy and subclinical infection amongst school children in the Amazon Region.
Abstract Leprosy in children is correlated with community-level factors, including the recent presence of disease and active foci of transmission in the community. We performed clinical and serological examinations of 1,592 randomly selected school children (SC) in a cross-sectional study of eight hyperendemic municipalities in the Brazilian Amazon Region. Sixty-three (4%) SC, with a mean age of 13.3 years (standard deviation = 2.6), were diagnosed with leprosy and 777 (48.8%) were seropositive for anti-phenolic glycolipid-I (PGL-I). Additionally, we evaluated 256 house-hold contacts (HHCs) of the students diagnose...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Barreto JG, Guimarães Lde S, Frade MA, Rosa PS, Salgado CG Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Cutaneous lesions sensory impairment recovery and nerve regeneration in leprosy patients.
Abstract It is important to understand the mechanisms that enable peripheral neurons to regenerate after nerve injury in order to identify methods of improving this regeneration. Therefore, we studied nerve regeneration and sensory impairment recovery in the cutaneous lesions of leprosy patients (LPs) before and after treatment with multidrug therapy (MDT). The skin lesion sensory test results were compared to the histopathological and immunohistochemical protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 and the p75 nerve growth factor receptors (NGFr) findings. The cutaneous neural occupation ratio (CNOR) was evaluated for both neur...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Illarramendi X, Rangel E, Miranda AM, Castro AC, Magalhães Gde O, Antunes SL Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Brazilian clinical trial of uniform multidrug therapy for leprosy patients: the correlation between clinical disease types and adverse effects.
This study sought to verify the correlation between leprosy types and the adverse effects of treatment drugs. This quantitative, prospective, nested study was developed at the Dona Libânia Dermatology Centre in Fortaleza, Brazil. Data were collected from November 2007-November 2008. During this period, 818 leprosy patients were diagnosed and began treatment. Forty patients with tuberculoid leprosy (TT) were selected. Twenty patients followed a standard therapy of dapsone and rifampicin and 20 were administered dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine (U-MDT). Twenty patients with borderline lepromatous (BL) and lepromatous lep...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Gonçalves Hde S, Pontes MA, Bührer-Sékula S, Cruz R, Almeida PC, Moraes ME, Penna GO Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Identification of serological biomarkers of infection, disease progression and treatment efficacy for leprosy.
In this study, we examined the reactivity of sera from lepromatous and tuberculoid leprosy patients (LPs) against a panel of 12 recombinant Mycobacterium leprae proteins and found that six proteins were strongly recognised by multibacillary (MB) patients, while only three were consistently recognised by paucibacillary patients. To better understand the dynamics of patient antibody responses during and after drug therapy, we measured antibody titres to four recombinant proteins, phenolic glycolipid-I and lipoarabinomannan at baseline and up to two years after diagnosis to investigate the temporal changes in the antibody tit...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Spencer JS, Duthie MS, Geluk A, Balagon MF, Kim HJ, Wheat WH, Chatterjee D, Jackson M, Li W, Kurihara JN, Maghanoy A, Mallari I, Saunderson P, Brennan PJ, Dockrell HM Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Serologic follow-up of IgG responses against recombinant mycobacterial proteins ML0405, ML2331 and LID-1 in a leprosy hyperendemic area in Venezuela.
In this study, the Mamaría Village, state of Portuguesa was selected because it had one of the highest prevalence rates (13.25%) of leprosy cases in 1997. Between 1998-2004, 20.2% of the 89 cases registered in this village were less than 15 years old and 61.8% were males. Pau-cibacillary (PB) lesions were the predominant clinical forms identified, although also multibacillary (MB) forms were found. Additionally, 76% of the patients were bacteriologically negative. At the time of diagnosis, 75% of the patients presented with grade 0 disabilities, 23% with grade 1 and 2% with grade 2. Serum samples were collected from 18 PB...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Rada E, Duthie MS, Reed SG, Aranzazu N, Convit J Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Lepromatous leprosy patients produce antibodies that recognise non-bilayer lipid arrangements containing mycolic acids.
Abstract Non-bilayer phospholipid arrangements are three-dimensional structures that form when anionic phospholipids with an intermediate structure of the tubular hexagonal phase II are present in a bilayer of lipids. Antibodies that recognise these arrangements have been described in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome and/or systemic lupus erythematosus and in those with preeclampsia; these antibodies have also been documented in an experimental murine model of lupus, in which they are associated with immunopathology. Here, we demonstrate the presence of antibodies against non-bilayer phospholipid arrangement...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Baeza I, Wong-Baeza C, Valerdi E, Serafin-Lopez J, Ibáñez M, Estrada-Parra S, Wong C, Estrada-Garcia I Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Seroreactivity to new Mycobacterium leprae protein antigens in different leprosy-endemic regions in Brazil.
This study describes seroreactivity to M. leprae proteins among participants from three highly endemic leprosy areas in Brazil: central-western Goiânia/Goiás (GO) (n = 225), Rondonópolis/Mato Grosso (MT) (n = 764) and northern Prata Village/Pará (PA) (n = 93). ELISA was performed to detect IgG to proteins (92f, 46f, leprosy IDRI diagnostic-1, ML0405, ML1213) and IgM to phenolic glycolipid-I (PGL-I). Multibacillary (MB) leprosy had positive rates for PGL-I that were similar to those for proteins; however, some anti-PGL-I-negative subjects were positive for proteins, suggesting that adding protein antigen to PGL-I can en...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Hungria EM, Oliveira RM, Souza AL, Costa MB, Souza VN, Silva EA, Moreno FR, Nogueira ME, Costa MR, Silva SM, Bührer-Sékula S, Reed SG, Duthie MS, Stefani MM Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Mycobacterium leprae virulence-associated peptides are indicators of exposure to M. leprae in Brazil, Ethiopia and Nepal.
Abstract Silent transmission of Mycobacterium leprae, as evidenced by stable leprosy incidence rates in various countries, remains a health challenge despite the implementation of multidrug therapy worldwide. Therefore, the development of tools for the early diagnosis of M. leprae infection should be emphasised in leprosy research. As part of the continuing effort to identify antigens that have diagnostic potential, unique M. leprae peptides derived from predicted virulence-associated proteins (group IV.A) were identified using advanced genome pattern programs and bioinformatics. Based on human leukocyte antigen (H...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Bobosha K, Tang ST, van der Ploeg-van Schip JJ, Bekele Y, Martins MV, Lund O, Franken KL, Khadge S, Pontes MA, Gonçalves Hde S, Hussien J, Thapa P, Kunwar CB, Hagge DA, Aseffa A, Pessolani MC, Pereira GM, Ottenhoff TH, Geluk A Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Comparison of two rapid tests for anti-phenolic glycolipid-I serology in Brazil and Nepal.
Abstract The diagnosis of leprosy continues to be based on clinical symptoms and early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing disability and transmission. Sensitive and specific laboratory tests are not available for diagnosing leprosy. Despite the limited applicability of anti-phenolic glycolipid-I (PGL-I) serology for diagnosis, it has been suggested as an additional tool to classify leprosy patients (LPs) for treatment purposes. Two formats of rapid tests to detect anti-PGL-I antibodies [ML immunochromatography assay (ICA) and ML Flow] were compared in different groups, multibacillary patients, pauci...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Stefani MM, Grassi AB, Sampaio LH, Sousa AL, Costa MB, Scheelbeek P, Neupane KD, Hagge DA, Macdonald M, Cho SN, Oskam L, Bührer-Sékula S Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Genetics of leprosy reactions: an overview.
Abstract Type-1 (T1R) and Type-2 (T2R) leprosy reactions (LR), which affect up to 50% of leprosy patients, are aggressive inflammatory episodes of sudden onset and highly variable incidence across populations. LR are often diagnosed concurrently with leprosy, but more frequently occur several months after treatment onset. It is not uncommon for leprosy patients to develop recurring reactional episodes; however, they rarely undergo both types of LR. Today, LR are the main cause of permanent disabilities associated with leprosy and represent a major challenge in the clinical management of leprosy patients. Although p...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Fava V, Orlova M, Cobat A, Alcaïs A, Mira M, Schurr E Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Genotyping of Mycobacterium leprae present on Ziehl-Neelsen-stained microscopic slides and in skin biopsy samples from leprosy patients in different geographic regions of Brazil.
This study demonstrates the existence of geographically related M. leprae genotypes and that Z-N-stained slides are an alternative source for M. leprae genotyping. PMID: 23283465 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Fontes AN, Gomes HM, Araujo MI, Albuquerque EC, Baptista IM, Moura MM, Rezende DS, Pessolani MC, Lara FA, Pontes MA, Gonçalves Hde S, Lucena-Silva N, Sarno EN, Vissa VD, Brennan PJ, Suffys PN Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Association analysis of human leukocyte antigen class II (DRB1) alleles with leprosy in individuals from São Luís, state of Maranhão, Brazil.
Abstract Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that the variability of the clinical response to infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae is associated with host genetic factors. The present study investigated the frequency of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II (DRB1) alleles in patients with leprosy from São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil. A case-control study was performed in 85 individuals with leprosy and 85 healthy subjects. All samples were analysed via polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific oligonucleotide probes. The HLA-DRB1*16 allele showed a higher frequency in the group with leprosy [(9.41% vs. 4...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Corrêa Rda G, Aquino DM, Caldas Ade J, Serra Hde O, Silva FF, Ferreira Mde J, Santos EJ, Mesquita ER Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Deciphering the contribution of lipid droplets in leprosy: multifunctional organelles with roles in Mycobacterium leprae pathogenesis.
Abstract Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that affects the skin and nerves, presenting a singular clinical picture. Across the leprosy spectrum, lepromatous leprosy (LL) exhibits a classical hallmark: the presence of a collection of M. leprae-infected foamy macrophages/Schwann cells characterised by their high lipid content. The significance of this foamy aspect in mycobacterial infections has garnered renewed attention in leprosy due to the recent observation that the foamy aspect represents cells enriched in lipid droplets (LD) (also known as lipid bodies). Here, we discuss the cont...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Mattos KA, Sarno EN, Pessolani MC, Bozza PT Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Differential expression of the costimulatory molecules CD86, CD28, CD152 and PD-1 correlates with the host-parasite outcome in leprosy.
Abstract Leprosy is a spectral disease exhibiting two polar sides, namely, lepromatous leprosy (LL) characterised by impaired T-cell responses and tuberculoid leprosy in which T-cell responses are strong. Proper T-cell activation requires signalling through costimulatory molecules expressed by antigen presenting cells and their ligands on T-cells. We studied the influence of costimulatory molecules on the immune responses of subjects along the leprosy spectrum. The expression of the costimulatory molecules was evaluated in in vitro-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells of lepromatous and tuberculoid patient...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Palermo Mde L, Trindade MÂ, Duarte AJ, Cacere CR, Benard G Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Mycobacterial laminin-binding histone-like protein mediates collagen-dependent cytoadherence.
Abstract When grown in the presence of exogenous collagen I, Mycobacterium bovis BCG was shown to form clumps. Scanning electron microscopy examination of these clumps revealed the presence of collagen fibres cross-linking the bacilli. Since collagen is a major constituent of the eukaryotic extracellular matrices, we assayed BCG cytoadherence in the presence of exogenous collagen I. Collagen increased the interaction of the bacilli with A549 type II pneumocytes or U937 macrophages, suggesting that BCG is able to recruit collagen to facilitate its attachment to host cells. Using an affinity chromatography approach, ...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Dias AA, Raze D, Lima CS, Marques MA, Drobecq H, Debrie AS, Ribeiro-Guimarães ML, Biet F, Pessolani MC Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Increased hepcidin expression in multibacillary leprosy.
Abstract Iron is essential for all organisms and its availability can control the growth of microorganisms; therefore, we examined the role of iron metabolism in multibacillary (MB) leprosy, focusing on the involvement of hepcidin. Erythrograms, iron metabolism parameters, pro-inflammatory cytokines and urinary hepcidin levels were evaluated in patients with MB and matched control subjects. Hepcidin expression in MB lesions was evaluated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The expression of ferroportin and hepcidin was evaluated by immunofluorescence in paucibacillary and MB lesions. Analysis of hepcidin pro...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Souza VN, Malaspina TS, Campanelli AP, Ghidella C, Ura S, Dalpino D, Nascimento DC, Latini AC Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

The potential for vaccination in leprosy elimination: new tools for targeted interventions.
Abstract Despite the huge effort and massive advances toward the elimination of leprosy over the last two decades, the disease has proven stubborn; new case detection rates have stabilised over the last few years and leprosy remains endemic in a number of localised regions. The American Leprosy Missions and Infectious Disease Research Institute have undertaken a large research effort aimed at developing new tools and a vaccine to continue the push for leprosy elimination. In this paper, we outline our strategy for the integration of rapid diagnostic tests and lab-based assays to facilitate the detection of early or...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Duthie MS, Saunderson P, Reed SG Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Insights from animal models on the immunogenetics of leprosy: a review.
Abstract A variety of host immunogenetic factors appear to influence both an individual's susceptibility to infection with Mycobacterium leprae and the pathologic course of the disease. Animal models can contribute to a better understanding of the role of immunogenetics in leprosy through comparative studies helping to confirm the significance of various identified traits and in deciphering the underlying mechanisms that may be involved in expression of different disease related phenotypes. Genetically engineered mice, with specific immune or biochemical pathway defects, are particularly useful for investigating gr...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Adams LB, Pena MT, Sharma R, Hagge DA, Schurr E, Truman RW Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Mycobacterium leprae in six-banded (Euphractus sexcinctus) and nine-banded armadillos (Dasypus novemcinctus) in Northeast Brazil.
This study identified M. leprae DNA in the two main species of armadillos found in Northeast Brazil. A total of 29 wild armadillos (27 D. novemcinctus and 2 E. sexcinctus) were captured in different environments of CE countryside. Samples from the ear, nose, liver and spleen from each of these animals were tested by a nested M. leprae-specific repetitive element polymerase chain reaction assay. The samples that tested positive were confirmed by DNA sequencing. M. leprae was detected in 21% (6/29) of the animals, including five D. novemcinctus and one E. sexcinctus. This is the first Brazilian study to identify the presence...
Source: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Frota CC, Lima LN, Rocha Ada S, Suffys PN, Rolim BN, Rodrigues LC, Barreto ML, Kendall C, Kerr LR Tags: Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz Source Type: research

Effects of irradiation, presence of females, and sugar supply on the longevity of sterile males Aedes albopictus (Skuse) under semi-field conditions on Reunion Island.
CONCLUSION: The outcomes indicate that sugar feeding could compensate for sterilization-induced damage, and that mating activity is not deleterious for well-fed males. This study stresses the critical importance of providing suitable sugar sources prior to release during SIT programmes. PMID: 23206578 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Acta Tropica - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Oliva CF, Maier MJ, Gilles J, Jacquet M, Lemperiere G, Quilici S, Vreysen MJ, Schooneman F, Chadee DD, Boyer S Tags: Acta Trop Source Type: research

Molecular phylogenetic analysis of Anopheles and Cellia subgenus Anophelines (Diptera: Culicidae) in temperate and tropical regions of Iran.
Abstract Molecular studies on population genetics of speciation across Iran have recently started. Morphological and molecular studies have showed that 25 species of genus Anopheles are present in the country; however, relationships between vector and non-vector species as well as compatibility of morphological characters with molecular data have not been verified. Molecular phylogenetic analysis was undertaken on the Anopheles and Cellia subgenus members internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequences submitted to GenBank among the Oriental and Palearctic members in north and southern Iran. rDNA-ITS2 sequences were...
Source: Acta Tropica - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Gholizadeh S, Djadid ND, Nouroozi B, Bekmohammadi M Tags: Acta Trop Source Type: research

Pangonius theodori a new horse fly species for science from Israel and Lebanon (Diptera: Tabanidae: Pangoniinae).
Abstract Pangonius theodori a new horse fly species (Diptera: Tabanidae: Pangoniinae) from northern Israel and southern Lebanon is described. The zoogeography, habitat preference and taxonomic position within the genus of the new species is discussed in detail. PMID: 23206580 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Acta Tropica - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Zeegers T, Kravchenko VD, Müller GC Tags: Acta Trop Source Type: research

Risk factors associated with complications in patients with chemotherapy‐induced febrile neutropenia in emergency department
Abstract Febrile neutropenia caused by chemotherapy is a frequent medical emergency associated with severe complications in the emergency department (ED). Timely administration of antibiotics is believed to improve patient outcomes for several infectious diseases such as pneumonia and sepsis but has not been thoroughly evaluated for reducing risk of complications in chemotherapy‐induced febrile neutropenia. The aim of this study was to evaluate associations between the risk factors and serious complications in patients presenting to the ED with febrile neutropenia. We reviewed the health information system database to id...
Source: Hematological Oncology - December 1, 2012 Category: Hematology Authors: Jiun‐Jen Lynn, Kuan‐Fu Chen, Yi‐Ming Weng, Te‐Fa Chiu Tags: Original Research Article Source Type: research

One-step spray-dried polyelectrolyte microparticles enhance the antigen cross-presentation capacity of porcine dendritic cells.
Abstract Vaccination is regarded as the most efficient and cost-effective way to prevent infectious diseases. Vaccine design nowadays focuses on the implementation of safer recombinant subunit vaccines. However, these recombinant subunit antigens are often poor immunogens and several strategies are currently under investigation to enhance their immunogenicity. The encapsulation of antigens in biodegradable microparticulate delivery systems seems a promising strategy to boost their immunogenicity. Here, we evaluate the capacity of polyelectrolyte complex microparticles (PECMs), fabricated by single step spray-drying...
Source: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics - December 1, 2012 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Devriendt B, Baert K, Dierendonck M, Favoreel H, De Koker S, Remon JP, De Geest BG, Cox E Tags: Eur J Pharm Biopharm Source Type: research

Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections with a Minimal Inhibitory Concentration of 2 μg/mL to Vancomycin: Old (Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole) versus New (Daptomycin or Linezolid) Agents.
CONCLUSIONS: TMP/SMX monotherapy compared favorably to linezolid and daptomycin in terms of treatment efficacy and mortality. Use of TMP/SMX instead of linezolid or daptomycin could potentially significantly reduce antibiotic costs. TMP/SMX should be considered for the treatment of MRSA infection with MIC of 2 μg/mL to vancomycin. PMID: 23212935 [PubMed - in process]
Source: The Annals of Pharmacotherapy - December 1, 2012 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Campbell ML, Marchaim D, Pogue JM, Sunkara B, Bheemreddy S, Bathina P, Pulluru H, Chugh N, Wilson MN, Moshos J, Ku K, Hayakawa K, Martin ET, Lephart PR, Rybak MJ, Kaye KS Tags: Ann Pharmacother Source Type: research

Pharmacotherapy for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nosocomial Pneumonia.
CONCLUSIONS: Based on the currently available evidence and cost-effectiveness, vancomycin should continue to be the drug of choice for most patients with nosocomial MRSA pneumonia. Linezolid is a reasonable alternative for patients with treatment failure while receiving vancomycin, isolates with vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations over 2 μg/mL, allergic reactions, or vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity. PMID: 23232021 [PubMed - in process]
Source: The Annals of Pharmacotherapy - December 1, 2012 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Segarra-Newnham M, Church TJ Tags: Ann Pharmacother Source Type: research

Launching PAD (Pathogens and Disease): More than a new title!
The launch of Pathogens and Disease, which replaces FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology, represents much more than a change in title. The journal has been entirely re‐conceived to embrace today's and tomorrow's research in infectious disease biology. In addition to well‐established areas in molecular and cellular pathogenesis, and the host response to infection, Pathogens and Disease will highlight and showcase the role of microbial communities in infectious diseases, the continually expanding impact of systems biology approaches, and the experimental translational applications thereof. © 2013 Federation of Europ...
Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology - December 1, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Patrik Bavoil Tags: Editorial Source Type: research

Role of immune cell subsets in the establishment of vector-borne infections.
Abstract Many of the pathogens responsible for diseases that result in both economic and global health burdens are transmitted by arthropod vectors in the course of a blood meal. In the past, these vectors were viewed mainly as simple delivery vehicles but the appreciation of the role that factors in the saliva of vectors play during pathogen transmission is increasing. Vector saliva proteins alter numerous physiological events in the skin; in addition, potent immunomodulatory properties are attributed to arthropod saliva. The description of specific factors responsible for these activities and their mechanisms of ...
Source: European Journal of Immunology - December 1, 2012 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Leitner WW, Costero-Saint Denis A, Wali T Tags: Eur J Immunol Source Type: research

A Systematic Review of Preventive Health Educational Videos Targeting Infectious Diseases in Schoolchildren.
Abstract Abstract. We conducted a systematic review of preventive health educational videos targeting infectious diseases in schoolchildren to formulate recommendations for establishing an evidence base for future studies. We included studies that evaluated interventions involving video-based health education in schools to improve knowledge and attitudes and to change behavior regarding different infections. The majority of the 11 studies we reviewed concluded that videos were well received by schools, teachers, and children, and are promising and effective health education tools, having a positive impact on knowle...
Source: The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene - December 1, 2012 Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Bieri FA, Gray DJ, Raso G, Li YS, McManus DP Tags: Am J Trop Med Hyg Source Type: research

Epidemiological features, resistance genes, and clones among community-onset methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CO-MRSA) isolates detected in northern Spain.
Abstract Twenty-nine community-onset methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CO-MRSA) isolates were prospectively selected according to epidemiological criteria among 374 MRSA isolates collected in our laboratory during 2009-2010 in order to determine which community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) and healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) clones are circulating in the community in northern Spain. PVL genes were detected in 5 strains (17.2%) that belonged to SCCmec type IV or V and to the agr group I (ST8 and ST2050), agr group II (ST121), and agr group III (ST30 and ST852). These strains were isolated from patients ...
Source: International Journal of Medical Microbiology - December 1, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: González-Domínguez M, Seral C, Sáenz Y, Salvo S, Gude MJ, Porres-Osante N, Torres C, Castillo FJ Tags: Int J Med Microbiol Source Type: research

Epidemiological and Clinical Features of Three Clustered Cases Co‐Infected with Lyme Disease and Rickettsioses
We reported three related female patients admitted at Beijing Ditan Hospital from October to December 2010. They had similar epidemiological histories. At the beginning, they only got a single diagnosis, respectively, but after specific screenings, the final diagnoses were made. Because arthropods can harbour more than one disease‐causing agent, patients can be infected with more than one pathogen at the same time, so the possibility of co‐infection could be higher than what was thought previously. These observations suggested that clinicians should enhance the complete screening of arthropod‐related infectious disea...
Source: Zoonoses and Public Health - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: D. Xuefei, H. Qin, G. Xiaodi, G. Zhen, L. Wei, H. Xuexia, G. Jiazhen, F. Xiuping, T. Meimei, Z. Jingshan, L. Yunru, F. Xiaoling, W. Kanglin, L. Xingwang Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research

Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS®) removal of piperacillin/tazobactam in a patient with acetaminophen‐induced acute liver failure
The objective of this study was to illustrate the pharmacokinetic removal of piperacillin/tazobactam in an anuric patient on Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS®). The patient was a 32‐year‐old woman who presented to a medical intensive care unit with acute liver failure secondary to an acetaminophen overdose. While awaiting transplant, she was started on MARS therapy as a bridge to liver transplant and empirically started on piperacillin/tazobactam therapy. MARS is an extracorporeal hemofiltration device, which incorporates a continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVHD) machine linked to an albumin‐enric...
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 1, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: M.A. Ruggero, A.C. Argento, M.S. Heavner, J.E. Topal Tags: Short communication Source Type: research

Survival of Pathogenic Escherichia Coli on Basil, Lettuce, and Spinach
Summary The contamination of lettuce, spinach and basil with pathogenic E. coli has caused numerous illnesses over the past decade. E. coli O157:H7, E. coli O104:H4 and avian pathogenic E. coli (APECstx‐ and APECstx+) were inoculated on basil plants and in promix substrate using drip and overhead irrigation. When overhead inoculated with 7 log CFU/ml of each strain, E. coli populations were significantly (P = 0.03) higher on overhead‐irrigated plants than on drip‐irrigated plants. APECstx‐, E. coli O104:H4 and APECstx+ populations were recovered on plants at 3.6, 2.3 and 3.1 log CFU/g at 10 dpi (days post�...
Source: Zoonoses and Public Health - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: S. M. Markland, K. L. Shortlidge, D. G. Hoover, S. Yaron, J. Patel, A. Singh, M. Sharma, K. E. Kniel Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Colonization of Butchers with Livestock‐Associated Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Summary Reports have documented colonization of swine in Europe, North America and more recently in China with livestock‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA‐MRSA). Contamination of pig farmers, veterinarians and abattoir workers with these strains has been observed. However, although contamination levels of 10% of retail pork were reported from the Netherlands and Canada, there are limited data of contamination rates of workers handling raw meat. We investigated the rates of MRSA contamination of local butchers working in wet markets, where recently slaughtered pigs are cut up. Nasal swabs coll...
Source: Zoonoses and Public Health - December 1, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: M. Boost, J. Ho, L. Guardabassi, M. O'Donoghue Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Tuberculous hepatitis in renal transplant recipients following alemtuzumab induction therapy
We describe 2 patients who underwent deceased‐donor renal transplantation following alemtuzumab induction therapy and presented with a febrile syndrome, subsequently diagnosed as tuberculous hepatitis, one with disseminated disease. Both responded well to treatment without significant side effects, resulting in excellent graft function. The importance of chemoprophylaxis should be emphasized to minimize the risk of developing active tuberculosis in patients with latent tuberculosis infection undergoing solid organ transplantation.
Source: Transplant Infectious Disease - December 1, 2012 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: W. Bosch, N. Poowanawittayakom, K. Chaikriangkrai, J. Mendez, W.C. Hellinger, T.A. Gonwa, M. Krishna, S. Pungpapong Tags: Case report Source Type: research

Severe imported Falciparum malaria treated with artesunate.
We report a case of severe imported Falciparium malaria who received artesunate, and we rewiew the different diagnostic methods of malaria as well as the clinico-biological characteristics of severe malaria. Recent data concerning malaria treatment are presented, as a pharmacokinetic study leaded during this case. PMID: 23207821 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Annales de Biologie Clinique - December 1, 2012 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Danguy des Déserts M, Montelescaut E, Di Costanzo L, Commandeur D, Nguyen BV, Ould-Ahmed M, Taudon N, Drouillard I Tags: Ann Biol Clin (Paris) Source Type: research

A new Multilocus Sequence Analysis Scheme for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
CONCLUSION: MLSA genotyping not only can be used for molecular typing, but also is an ideal method for the phylogenetic analysis for M. tuberculosis. PMID: 23228831 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Biomedical and Environmental Sciences : BES - December 1, 2012 Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Lu B, Dong HY, Zhao XQ, Liu ZG, Liu HC, Zhang YY, Jiang Y, Wan KL Tags: Biomed Environ Sci Source Type: research

Mobile device-based Reporting System for Sichuan Earthquake-affected Areas Infectious Disease Reporting in China.
CONCLUSION: The mobile-based system is recognized as a quick and effective response solution to this public health challenge. Our experience suggests that mobile-based data collection tools provide faster, cleaner, standardized, and shareable data for critical decision making. This system could be adapted as complementary to national infectious disease reporting systems after natural disaster occurrences. PMID: 23228844 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Biomedical and Environmental Sciences : BES - December 1, 2012 Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Guo Y, Su XM Tags: Biomed Environ Sci Source Type: research