MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Journal of Infection' source. Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:35:05 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360913&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000423%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study describes the activity of tigecycline against S. pneumoniae, an important etiologic agent that was recently added by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to the Tygacil® monograph for the treatment of CAP. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360913 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360910&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000411%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: CTX-M beta-lactamases may spread extensively amongst family members in the home. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360910 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360908&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000204%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The proposed system appears promising for application in accurate screening for influenza patients at places of mass gathering. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360908 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360907&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000381%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Augmentation of the vaccine dose and co-administration of GM-CSF and the standard vaccine dose are effective for HBV vaccine non-responders. In fact, changing the vaccine dose had a better seropositive response than injecting the vaccine in combination with GM-CSF. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360907 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360906&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000368%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: Although usually mild, 2009 H1N1 Influenza has caused up to 6000 deaths in the US. To determine outcome in patients with cancer and/or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), we reviewed our recent experience at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC).Methods: During the initial NYC outbreak (May 19–June 30, 2009), all respiratory samples at MSKCC were tested for 2009 H1N1 influenza by DFA, culture, and RT-PCR. Medical records were reviewed for all cases.Results: During the 6-week period, 45(11%) of 394 tested patients were diagnosed with 2009 H1N1 Influenza. These included 29(17%) of 167 patients with hematologic conditions compared to 16(7%) of 226 with solid tumors (P  (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360906 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360915&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000198%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In their article Schierup Nielsen and colleagues argue that, because in Denmark travellers pay for their own vaccinations, cost-benefit considerations should be made by the traveller. This implies that hepatitis B vaccination is probably not cost-effective for all travellers, with which we strongly agree. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360915 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360914&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000216%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with interest the recent paper by Falagas et al., which discussed the importance of treating simple lower urinary tract infections in the community. The increasing prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing organisms, particularly in community settings, poses a problem in this context. No oral antimicrobial in standard UK use has retained reliable activity against these organisms, although nitrofurantoin is useful in the case of certain epidemic strains. Nitrofurantoin, however, has limitations as an empirical treatment because of the intrinsic resistance of Proteus spp; it is also restricted for use in pregnancy and in those with impaired renal function. Treatment of simple urinary tract infection with ESBL-producing organisms may therefore force the use of i... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360914 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360911&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000253%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The MRSA Xpert test is easy to perform, has a high negative predictive value, and may be used to control healthcare workers and patients exposed to MRSA. Sampling from multiple anatomical locations is recommended. Still, more then 10% of MRSA positive cases may not be found. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360911 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360909&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000228%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first population-based study of bacteremic gram-negative UTI. The linear trend of increasing antimicrobial resistance among gram-negative isolates should be considered when empiric therapy is selected. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360909 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281365&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000071%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: To explore clinical and virological characteristics and describe the epidemiology of dengue in patients who presented with acute undifferentiated fever (AUF) at primary health centers (PHC) in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam.Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from 2001 to 2006 to study the aetiology in AUF patients. Demographic and clinical information was obtained, and dengue polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and serology were performed on a random selection of patients.Results: Three hundred fifty-one serologically confirmed dengue patients including 68 primary and 283 secondary infections were included in this study. In 25% (86/351) dengue virus (DENV) was detected by RT-PCR among which 32 DENV-1, 16 DENV-2, 1 DENV-3 and 37 DENV-4 were identified... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281365 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360916&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000022%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In their Letter to the Editor, G. Sonder and A. van den Hoek (GS and AH) raise several discussions of interest. Firstly, we agree that high incidences of risk behaviour do not automatically translate into high risks of hepatitis B infection, because the risk of acquiring hepatitis B per risk situation is low, as demonstrated in the low incidence of disease in travellers despite very frequent risky behaviour. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360916 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281368&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344531000006X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Intravesical treatment with the biological response modifier, live attenuated Mycobacterium bovis BCG, has been established as the most effective immunotherapy for superficial bladder cancer. BCG therapy using Connaught, Pasteur, Armand-Frappier, Tokyo, Tice, Glaxo/Evans, Moreau and RIMV causes a significant reduction in the rate of relapse, prolongs the progression-free interval and has become a standard treatment. These BCG strains do not differ in terms of preventing tumor progression, with a complete response rate of 70–75%, and are reported to cause remissions within a 5-year period in 70% of patients. BCG immunoadjuvant therapy is an excellent example of the importance of local immune reactions in cancer immunotherapy. The majority of patients experience minor adverse events, such ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281368 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281362&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003983%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Taken together, these data suggest that the Hajj-related N. meningitidis serogroup W135 clone is present in Brazil but has not yet caused a substantial number of infections. Given the emergence of N. meningitidis serogroup W135 globally and the unpredictability of meningococcal disease epidemiology, continued surveillance for this invasive N. meningitidis serogroup W135 clone is needed for control and prevention strategies. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281362 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281362 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281371&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445310000034%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conventional methods for diagnosing CRBSI such as quantitative or semiquantitative catheter-tip cultures require removal of the CVC. However, CVCs removed on suspicion of CRBSI prove to be the source of blood stream infection in only 15% of cases. It has been shown that clinically suspected CRBSI can be detected by the differential time to positivity (DTP) method or Gram/acridine-orange leukocyte cytospin (AOLC) test without catheter removal. Whether microorganisms can be detected in blood drawn from CVCs before symptoms of CRBSI become manifest using the Gram/AOLC method has not been investigated. The aim of this prospective pilot study was to investigate whether the Gram stain/AOLC method might be a potentially useful way to anticipate the diagnosis of CRBSI. (Source: Journal of Infectio... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281371 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281363&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003892%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: To identify prediction factors for the development of leptospirosis-associated pulmonary hemorrhage syndrome (LPHS).Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study. The study comprised of 203 patients, aged ≥14 years, admitted with complications of the severe form of leptospirosis at the Emílio Ribas Institute of Infectology (Sao Paulo, Brazil) between 1998 and 2004. Laboratory and demographic data were obtained and the severity of illness score and involvement of the lungs and others organs were determined. Logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of LPHS. A prospective validation cohort of 97 subjects with severe form of leptospirosis admitted at the same hospital between 2004 and 2006 was used to independently evaluate the predictive v... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281363 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281366&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003971%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: In a previous retrospective study we have shown that circulating antibodies to endogenous erythropoietin (anti-EPO) are associated with HIV-1-related anemia. The present longitudinal cohort study was conducted to examine the effect of anti-EPO on the risk of developing anemia over time.Methods: The study population consisted of 113 HIV-1 seropositive patients, who were screened for the presence of anti-EPO, with a mean±SD follow up of 105±40 months, for a total of 2190 visits. Anti-EPO were detected with an ELISA assay.Results: Anti-EPO were detected in 41% (46/113) at enrollment and 29% (320/1094) for all visits, and were associated with higher EPO levels for all visits (45.7±60.4 vs. 31.8±31.7IU/ml, p (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281366 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3360912&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003946%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: It is documented that HGA infections can be caused by two A. phagocytophilum groEL genotypes. At present, the preference of the A. phagocytophilum groEL-G genotype in humans remains unclear, as we describe the first patient with HGA caused by the groEL-A variant. For a conclusive interpretation, more data from HGA patients will be required. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3360912 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3360912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281369&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003934%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) HIV-1 RNA levels are generally accepted to be 1–2 log10 copies/ml lower than in the plasma. There are increasing reports of discordance between CSF and plasma viral load levels as shown in a recent report by Garvey et al. who described a case of detectable HIV-1 RNA in CSF despite full suppression of viral replication in the plasma. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281369 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281364&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003880%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: Down regulation of HLA-DR expression on monocytes has been reported in adult sepsis. The aims of this study were, first to evaluate monocyte HLA-DR expression in late onset neonatal infection and second to investigate the prognostic value of monocyte HLA-DR expression at onset of symptoms for the final outcome.Methods: Peripheral blood samples were taken from neonates, who were classified into three groups: late onset neonatal sepsis group (n=40); non-infective disorders group (n=24) and the control group (n=25). Monocyte expression of HLA-DR was determined by flow cytometry.Results: The percentage of monocytes expressing HLA-DR was lower in neonates with late onset sepsis (p (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281364 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225901&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900396X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Respiratory failure in patients with 2009 H1N1 influenza leads to poor outcomes, including complications and death. Clinicians could apply the three predictors at admission to identify the high-risk pneumonic patients for developing respiratory failure. Further study is needed to validate the findings of this study in other settings. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225901 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3225901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281370&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003909%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Evaluations of T-cell assays for diagnosing active Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) infection were recently published in the Journal of Infection by Liao et al., Kim et al. and Clark et al. (December 2009). These evaluations presented evidence of T-cell assays clinical accuracy, i.e. can the tests detect the presence and absence of active TB infection. Unfortunately, knowledge of T-cell assays clinical accuracy offers only moderate help in deciding if the tests are clinically useful in an individual patient. To better understand clinical usefulness, evaluations should investigate how a patient's management is altered by their use, that is: does the test help you treat the patient quicker, cheaper, or better; does it make no difference or does it lead to harm? At present the debate about ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281370 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281361&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003922%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This paper provides a baseline for evaluating the impact of 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, introduced in September 2006. Ongoing high-quality laboratory-based surveillance of IPD in all age groups is essential. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281361 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281360&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003910%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This study showed recurrent bacteraemia to be common and the following risk factors were identified: a health care-associated or nosocomial origin, poly-microbial or fungal aetiology, a focus within the abdomen, endocardium, iv-catheter-related or unknown, a Charlson co-morbidity index score of >1 and inappropriate empirical antimicrobial chemotherapy. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281360 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3281360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161257&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003600%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Eosinophilia is a common finding in returning travellers and migrants, and in this group it often indicates an underlying helminth infection. Infections are frequently either asymptomatic or associated with non-specific symptoms, but some can cause severe disease. Here the British Infection Society guidelines group reviews common and serious infectious causes of eosinophilia, and outlines a scheme for investigating returning travellers and migrants. All returning travellers and migrants with eosinophilia should be investigated with concentrated stool microscopy and strongyloides serology, in addition to tests specific to the region they have visited. Terminal urine microscopy and serology for schistosomiasis should also be performed in those returning from Africa. Eosinophilia is ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161257 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3161257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3281367&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003867%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a novel serological method, using paired liquor and serum samples, resulting in the diagnosis of Schistosoma myelopathy in a male patient with proximal muscle weakness. The patient recovered after praziquantel treatment. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3281367 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3281367 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225906&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003697%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Men are generally more susceptible to infectious diseases than women are, and this is also true for many emerging zoonotic infections [for reviews, see References.] Although men are generally over-represented in diagnoses of certain infectious diseases, less is known regarding possible differences in sex ratio over time for the same disease. Tularaemia is an emerging zoonotic disease for which men are over-represented, and a disease that shows considerable annual variation in the number of cases. Here, we analyzed all reported cases of tularaemia in Sweden from 1997 to 2008. In Sweden, tularaemia is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis subsp. holarctica. Humans are mainly infected by insect, predominantly mosquito, bites or sometimes when in contact with infected animals. Most ca... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225906 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225905&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003855%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe the clinical and laboratory features of the cases, and lessons learnt in the management of their clinical course. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225905 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225891&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003879%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: We sought to determine whether poor glucose control among diabetics is associated with increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and whether elevated admitting plasma glucose (APG) levels are associated with increased severity of this infection in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.Methods: We compared hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in diabetics who had pneumococcal pneumonia with diabetic case–controls who did not have pneumonia. In patients with pneumococcal pneumonia, we related APG to disease severity as determined by SMART-COP score, need for ICU admission, and mortality at 7 and 30 days.Results: Fifty-three of 233 patients with pneumococcal pneumonia (22.7%) were diabetic. Diabetics with pneumonia had poorer glycemic control than diabetic case–controls (HbA1c 8.2% vs... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225891 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225892&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003703%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Purposes: (1) To validate the Severe Community Acquired Pneumonia (SCAP) score in predicting 30-day mortality. (2) To validate its ability to identifying patients at low risk of death. (3) To compare it against the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI), and the British Thoracic Society's CURB-65 rules.Methods: The SCAP score was validated to predict 30-day mortality in an internal validation cohort of consecutive adult patients seen in one hospital. Consecutive inpatients from other three hospitals were used to externally validate the score and compare the SCAP with the PSI and CURB-65. The discriminatory power of these rules to predict 30-day mortality was tested by the Area under Curve (AUC), and their predictive accuracy with the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values.Results:... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225892 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225890&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003661%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Patients with enteric fever presented with a non-specific febrile illness within one month after returning from travel, and most had an uncomplicated clinical course. Increasing ciprofloxacin insensitivity was the likely explanation for a high treatment failure rate and this agent can no longer recommended as empirical treatment. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225890 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225897&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003685%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: To assess whether vancomycin MIC creeps among blood methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates recovered from 5 hospitals in Hong Kong from 1997 to 2008.Methods: Blood cultures MRSA isolates from 1997 to 1999 (period 1), 2004 (period 2) and 2006–2008 (period 3) were retrieved. Etest method was used to determine their vancomycin MIC. The genotypic features were determined by PCR and sequencing.Results: 247 blood MRSA isolates were studied. The vancomycin MIC were 0.375, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 mg/L for 15 (6.1%), 68 (27.5%), 89 (36%) and 75 (30.4%) isolates, respectively. There was an increase in the percentage of isolates with an MIC=1mg/L from 10.4% (5/48) during period 1 to 21.6% (8/37) during period 2 and 38.3% (62/162) during period 3 (period 1 vs. perio... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225897 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225893&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900365X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study, focusing on the elderly and patients with co-morbidity, evaluates the Dutch primary care guideline that recommends referral to hospital only in case of suspected deterioration to severe sepsis or failure of antibiotic treatment, irrespective of patient's age, sex or co-morbidity.Methods: A prospective observational cohort study including consecutive non-pregnant adults with AP. Clinical and microbiological outcome measures of non-referred patients from 35 primary health care centres (PHC) were compared to patients referred to two affiliating emergency departments (EDs).Results: Of 395 evaluable patients, 153 were treated by PHCs and 242 referred to EDs. The median age was 63years [IQR 43–77], 34% were male, 58% had co-morbidity; all comparable between the PHC and ED group. Re... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225893 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225904&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003636%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with great interest the review by Vinh DC et al. regarding the safety and tolerability of linezolid. The authors stated that linezolid has usually no significant effect on liver function tests to warrant drug discontinuation, but the degree of derangement depends on the patient population and associated co-morbidities. We would like to report the case of a 79 year-old male, who was admitted to our Department with a 7-day history of fatigue, loss of appetite, fever and intense back pain. His past medical history included decompensated alcoholic cirrhosis (Child-Pugh class B with no encephalopathy and mild ascites) being treated with spironolactone 50mg per day for the last few years, as well as known lumbar spinal stenosis, for which he had undergone to intra-articular injection of... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225904 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225898&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003612%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we investigated the distribution of virulence determinants and phylogenetic groups among community-onset, ciprofloxacin-resistant E. coli isolates causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in Korea. In addition, the evidence of clonal spread in the community was also examined.Methods: From November 2006 to August 2007, 543 community-onset E. coli isolates causing UTIs were collected as part of a multicenter surveillance study. In vitro susceptibility testing was performed using broth microdilution method. Distribution of virulence determinants and phylogenetic groupings were examined. In addition, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis was performed.Results: In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that 154 isolates (28.4%) were ciprofloxacin-resistant. Of th... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225898 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225895&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003648%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: The aim of this research was to assess the incidence of CVC-associated/related to bloodstream infection (BSI) to different types of CVC, by classes of neonatal birth weight.Methods: The research was conducted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Uberlandia University Hospital from April/2006 through April/2008. The population analyzed comprised neonates who had at least one CVC placed for longer than 24h, followed-up through epidemiologic vigilance “National Healthcare Safety Network”. Patients were followed daily from their entry into the study to their discharge or death.Results: At birth, 50.7% of neonates had low weight (≤1500g), 24.5% between 1501 and 2500g and 24.8% over 2500g. The highest density of CVC use (0.96) was found in neonates with birth weight r... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225895 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225894&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003673%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: PTX3 may be a useful marker for differentiation of patients with severe disease in patients presenting with fever to the emergency department. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225894 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225900&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003624%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: PSIA represented almost 10% of all cases of invasive aspergillosis. Our cases were not linked to high levels of Aspergillus conidia in the operating rooms but to postoperative contamination by environmental isolates present in high counts. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225900 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041599&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003351%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe the cases, including blood and imaging data and present the initial epidemiological information related to them. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041599 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041598&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900334X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The Department of Health recommends that health care workers (HCWs) with direct patient contact are vaccinated against seasonal influenza. A survey of acute hospital NHS trusts in 2008 reported that doctors had the lowest vaccine uptake of all HCWs. At the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, vaccination coverage in doctors was 7% in 2007/2008 and only 2% in foundation year 1 (F1) doctors. During this year (2008/2009), as part of a programme to improve uptake, we carried out a questionnaire survey among junior doctors to assess barriers to vaccination. We targeted F1 doctors by organising vaccination sessions at the same time and location as two mandatory training days. Fifty-four questionnaires were analysed. 68.5% of foundation doctors were in favour of vaccination of HCWs and 3.7... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041598 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041597&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003338%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection in the routine microbiology laboratory is challenging. Automation of culture has many potential benefits in a busy laboratory. A prospective study was performed to compare the performance of 4 different microbiological culture methods in the diagnosis of infection at joint prosthesis revision. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041597 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041596&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003326%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Introduction. Acute viral hepatitis is a common cause of hospital attendance after foreign travel. Travellers and doctors are generally aware of hepatitis A and pre-travel immunisation is available and efficacious. No vaccine is available for hepatitis E and the number of cases caused by hepatitis E has increased recently. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041596 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041595&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003314%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Covering letter this abstract accompanies the principle abstact of the same title. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041595 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041594&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003302%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes MJ is a 21 year old Sri Lankan man who complained of a 2 year history of worsening skin lesions. This started with a small lesion on his back that gradually enlarged, and subsequently new lesions on his face and ears, which had become red. Over the last 6 months he had experienced weakness and numbness in his legs. Examination revealed a large annular geographic lesion with an erythematous edge on his back plus multiple smaller inflamed plaques and nodules on his face, earlobes and arms. His nerves were minimally enlarged but non-tender with normal function and sensation. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041594 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041593&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003296%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Introduction: Salmonella infections vary in severity from mild gastroenteritis to potentially fatal enteric fever. Despite high standards of sanitation and awareness of prevention methods, Salmonella continues to cause considerable morbidity in the developed world. We investigated the burden of disease in a UK teaching hospital. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041593 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041592&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003284%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes A 51-year-old male from Brazil presented with three weeks of melaena and abdominal distension and one week of fevers and myalgia. HIV infection was diagnosed 12 years previously. CD4 count was 400 cells/μl and viral load undetectable on emtricitabine/tenofovir/lopinavir/saquinavir in the last 4 years. Previous treatment included zidovudine, stavudine, lamivudine and didanosine. He took no other medications and had no other significant past medical history or family history. He had a male partner and denied alcohol or illicit drug use. He had travelled to Brazil 12 months ago. Physical examination revealed moderate ascites and splenomegaly. Haemaglobin was 5.9g/dL, normal white blood cell and platelet count, albumin 34g/L, liver enzymes unremarkable. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy confirmed o... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041592 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041591&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003272%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Introduction. Broad range PCR and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) has been introduced as a means for detecting organisms in culture-negative samples. Methods. All samples from our institution sent for 16S rDNA PCR from January 2004 till December 2008 were reviewed. Amplification and sequencing of the 16S product was undertaken according to a published method (Harris, 2003). More recently, targeted primers for specific pathogens have been introduced for appropriate samples. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041591 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041590&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003260%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Severe sepsis is widely recognised as an important cause of morbidity and mortality in industrialised countries, but in resource-poor settings beyond surveys of bacteraemia, sepsis has gone largely undescribed. Within a sub-Saharan country with a high HIV prevalence such as Malawi, the incidence and severity of community acquired severe sepsis is thought to be high (2008 discharge audit from Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, showed 55% of adult admissions to be due to infective causes), resulting in high mortality rate. Existing tools to identify patients with severe sepsis and predict outcome based on physiological indices may not be applicable, and require evaluation prior to their application in interventional trials. It has also been shown that mortality can be reduced by the... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041590 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041589&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003259%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections are frequently accompanied by a self-limiting hepatitis. The HPA minimum testing algorithm recommends testing of CMV and EBV, in addition to hepatitis A, B and C serology, in all samples submitted for the investigation of hepatitis, jaundice and abnormal liver function tests (LFTs). However, there is minimal published data regarding the clinical utility of such testing. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041589 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041588&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003247%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes C. difficile associated diarrhoea (CDAD) is the most frequent hospital-acquired infection in the NHS. Rates have increased markedly in recent years and there has been considerable concern that disease severity is also increasing. Many NHS Trusts have opened wards for cohorting CDAD patients and introduced restrictive antibiotic policies. In January 2008 we launched an initiative to combat CDAD in our hospital. This comprised the opening of an 11-bed cohort ward, introduction of an antibiotic policy encouraging use of penicillins and aminoglycosides in place of cephalosporins and quinolones and a treatment algorithm for the management of CDAD. Here we report the impact of these measures. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041588 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041587&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003235%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Background: In the United Kingdom (UK), TB notifications have increased over the last decade - particularly among non-UK born migrants from high prevalence regions (HPR) as a result of reactivating latent TB infection (LTBI). Current national control methods are having little impact on TB notifications and it is postulated that targeted screening, with the tuberculin skin test (TST) or T-cell interferon gamma release assays (IGRAs), and chemoprophylaxis for LTBI in new entrants (NE) to the UK may enhance TB control. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041587 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041586&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003223%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present of a case of non-resolving Mycobacterium Tuberculosis infection in an HIV negative female with no significant past medical history. Following a non-specific febrile presentation investigations revealed thoracic lymphadenopathy and fully sensitive Mycobacterium Tuberculosis was grown from bronchoalveolar lavage. She did not improve with quadruple therapy and despite the transient addition of steroids and the extension of her therapy to include Clarithromycin and Moxifloxacin she continued to develop lymph node enlargement and abscesses that were AFB positive on microscopy but culture negative. Immunological tests were performed following a year of treatment to assess her TH1 response and cytokine quantification following whole blood stimulation showed markedly reduced interferon ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041586 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041585&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003211%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present of a case of non-resolving Mycobacterium Tuberculosis infection in an HIV negative female with no significant past medical history. Following a non-specific febrile presentation investigations revealed thoracic lymphadenopathy and fully sensitive Mycobacterium Tuberculosis was grown from bronchoalveolar lavage. She did not improve with quadruple therapy and despite the transient addition of steroids and the extension of her therapy to include Clarithromycin and Moxifloxacin she continued to develop lymph node enlargement and abscesses at multiple sites that were AFB positive on microscopy but culture negative. Immunological tests were performed following a year of treatment to assess her TH1 response; cytokine quantification following whole blood stimulation showed markedly redu... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041585 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041584&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900320X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Background. We previously showed that Sputum Induction (IS) is more sensitive than gastric washings for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis and this is not enhanced by the use of bronchoalveolar lavage.[1] IS samples are obtained quickly and easily allowing for shorter, less invasive hospital admissions. We wished to evaluate whether routine use of IS (outside of a study situation) improves microbiological diagnosis of tuberculosis, shortens hospital inpatient stay and reduces costs. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041584 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041583&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003193%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This abstract accompanies the “clinical lesson” abstract submitted under the same title. The causative agent in this case was Panton Valentine Leukocidin positive meticillin sensitive staphylococcus aureus (PVL+ MSSA). (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041583 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041582&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003181%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of healthcare associated infections, and is endemic in many hospitals. Since the early 1990s, new strains of MRSA have been recognised in patients with skin and soft tissue infections who have had no contact with healthcare facilities. These strains are known as community acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) to differentiate from the hospital acquired (HA-MRSA). Recently, there have been outbreaks of CA-MRSA in hospitals in the UK and German. Some strains of CA-MRSA have been found to produce Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL), a virulence factor associated with severe staphylococcal disease such as necrotizing pneumonia. Little is known about the carrier rate (prevalence) of PVL positive MRSA in emergency admissions to hospital, whic... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041582 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041581&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900317X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a case of fever in a returned UK-born, Caucasian traveller who had flown to Tanzania, stayed for 10 days in rural and urban locations, went on Safari and sustained multiple insect bites. He presented 16 days after flying home. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041581 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041580&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003168%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Neisseria meningitidis is a leading cause of meningitis and sepsis. The bacterium possesses a number of mechanisms that enable it to evade the immune system and cause disease. Complement is an integral part of the immune system and is essential for protection against the meningococcus. Factor H (fH) is a negative regulator of the alternative pathway of complement and is a 155kDa protein composed of 20 domains known as complement control protein (CCP) repeats. This regulator is recruited by endothelial cells to reduce complement activation, and by some microbial pathogens, including N. meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, promoting their survival in the face of host immune responses. In N. gonorrhoeae, fH recruitment is mediated by an outer membrane porin (Por1A), while the molecular tar... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041580 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041579&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003156%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Our knowledge of the clinical characteristics of enteric fever is drawn mainly from population-based studies in countries where the disease is endemic, and there are limited published data on cases in returning travellers. The majority of cases are derived from surveillance databases and epidemiological investigations where much clinical information is typically lacking. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041579 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041578&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003144%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Tuberculosis kills 2 million people every year. Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in tuberculous tissue destruction. We investigated the effect of the Th17 cytokine, Interleukin-17, which contributes to anti-mycobacterial immunity, on MMPs in an in vitro model. Primary airway epithelial cells were stimulated with Interleukin-17, with or without CoMTB (conditioned medium from TB infected monocytes). CoMTB and Interleukin-17 synergistically up-regulated MMP-1 (interstitial collagenase) and MMP-3 (stromelysin) secretion. In contrast, Interleukin-17 down-regulated MMP-9 (gelatinase) secretion. On western analysis, IL-17 drove AkT (Protein Kinase B) phosphorylation. Interleukin-17 and CoMTB driven MMP-3 secretion was abolished by chemical inhibition of the Pi3Kinase pathway and fu... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041578 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041577&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003132%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The UK National Guidelines for HIV testing include a list of non AIDs-defining conditions where ‘HIV testing should be offered’. We decided to look at patients in our trust who had been recently diagnosed with a selection of these conditions to establish how many were receiving a HIV test. We looked at age, gender, ethnicity and discharging specialty to identify any factors associated with receiving or not receiving a HIV test. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041577 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041576&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003120%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Approximately 10% of tuberculosis involves the skeletal system, up to half affecting the spine. Diagnosis of tuberculous vertebral osteomyelitis is frequently delayed due to its insidious onset, particularly in areas in the United Kingdom with a low incidence of tuberculosis. In recent years there have been efforts nationally to increase awareness of tuberculosis with the publication of a number of documents such as the Chief Medical Officer's Tuberculosis Action Plan, and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence Tuberculosis guidelines. We performed a retrospective case note review of patients with tuberculous vertebral osteomyelitis treated in Sheffield over the past 10 years to review epidemiology, clinical and radiological features and outcomes, and diagnostic delays. (Source: Jo... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041576 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041575&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003119%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The clinical presentation, combined with uptake in the bone marrow on 18F-FDG PET, prompted a bone marrow biopsy, which showed ‘ring' or ‘doughnut' granulomata, typical of Q fever. The patient commenced doxycycline therapy, with rapid defervescence and normalisation of inflammatory markers. In retrospect, he recalled close contact with a herd of goats during his trip to China. This is the first reported case of detection by 18F-FDG PET of bone marrow infiltration in Q fever. The importance of bone marrow biopsy in the investigation of fever of unknown origin is emphasised. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041575 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041574&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003107%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes A 59 year old Caucasian water resources engineer was admitted to hospital with a two week history of fever, rigors and headache. He travelled abroad frequently and had returned from China four weeks before becoming unwell. Whilst in China, his usual anti-hypertensive regimen had been modified to include dihydralazine sulphate. Aside from pyrexia (38.5°C) and a non-specific maculopapular rash, examination was unremarkable. Inflammatory markers were elevated and liver function tests mildly deranged, but the white blood cell count was normal. APTT was prolonged. Cultures of blood, urine and faeces were negative. CSF examination revealed a mild lymphocytic pleocytosis, elevated protein and reduced glucose, but gram stain and culture were negative. Numerous tests for auto-antibodies were posit... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041574 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041573&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003090%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe a case in a 34 year-old, black-African patient with well-controlled HIV disease, in whom the findings of carditis, along with fever and elevated acute phase reactants, fulfilled the Duckett-Jones Criteria (one major and two minor criteria, respectively) and followed a recent Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis. The patient was confident that she had not had rheumatic fever as a child. The case highlights a number of important points. Firstly, the importance of scrutinising previous microbiological results that may not initially seem relevant to the patient's presenting complaint. Secondly, that ASO titres may be negative in up to 80-90% of patients with the condition, as it was in this particular case and that when this occurs, efforts should be made to look for rising titres of ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041573 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041572&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003089%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Distinguishing patients with active tuberculosis (TB) from those with latent TB is an important clinical problem both in affluent countries and resource-poor regions. The SELDI-TOF MS (Surface Enhanced Laser Desorption Ionisation - Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry) platform allows for high throughput detection of multiple proteins in biological fluids. We hypothesise that different clinical manifestations of TB are associated with distinctive proteomic signatures in patient plasma. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041572 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041571&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003077%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We decribe an unusual case of fever, chest pain and collapse in an HIV-positive adult. A 34 year-old, HIV-positive, black-African patient attended our unit complaining of central, pleuritic chest pain and palpitations over the preceding week. One week earlier she had collapsed and lost consciousness for several minutes. One month prior, she had received 5 days of amoxicillin for purulent pharyngitis. She had been diagnosed HIV-positive in 2004 and commenced antiretrovirals in view of a nadir CD4 count of 176 cell/mm3. Apart from a cholecystectomy, her past medical history was unremarkable, without any HIV-related complications. At the time of presentation, her CD4 count was 459 cells/mm3 with an HIV viral load of (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041571 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041570&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003065%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The number of patients with TB who are co-infected with HIV has risen dramatically. In the UK in 2003, approximately 8% of adults with TB were co-infected with HIV. This proportion is higher within certain geographical areas and population groups. The interaction between HIV and TB may result in an atypical presentation especially in patients with advanced immunosupression. The co-infected patient may therefore present a complex diagnostic entity whose management requires specialist knowledge. This audit aimed to assess current practice regarding the management of TB/HIV co-infection in comparison with guidelines, including the ‘BHIVA treatment guidelines for TB/HIV co-infection, 2005' and the ‘National Collaborating Centre for Chronic Conditions: Tuberculosis: Clinical diagnosis and m... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041570 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041569&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003053%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is a well recognised opportunistic infection in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infected patients. In non HIV patients the incidence is increasing in those on immunomodulatory drugs. The aim of this study was to look at the epidemiology of PCP among non HIV infected patients in University Hospitals of Leicester (UHL). (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041569 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041568&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003041%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Tuberculosis continues to be a major cause of mortality and morbidity throughout the world. In the UK TB notifications have been steadily rising over the last 10 years. Leicester has one of the highest incidences of TB in the UK. Interferon gamma release assays (IGRA) are being increasingly utilised in the diagnosis of both active and latent TB. Quantiferon testing has become the standard IGRA used in Leicester. Previous studies from outside the UK have demonstrated a sub-optimal sensitivity of the Quantiferon assay in the investigation of active TB. Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate the sensitivity of quantiferon in active TB in our local population. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041568 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041567&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900303X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In light of the recent failure of the Merck T cell vaccine to elicit anti-HIV immunity, further characterisation of T cell responses is required. The CD8+T cell response is directed by the presentation of epitopes (viral peptide fragments) in association with HLA Class I molecules on the surface of infected cells. Thus, HLA genotype is a significant determinant of set-point viraemia, and of time to AIDS. HLA is also a strong selection force for HIV polymorphisms; the virus selects for escape mutations in, or flanking, T cell epitopes in order to evade the immune response. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041567 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041566&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003028%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Clostridium difficile is a Gram positive anaerobic spore-forming bacillus which has emerged as a substantial cause of health-care associated infection since the 1990s. It is identified as the causative agent in a wide spectrum of disease ranging from mild diarrhoea through to fulminant colitis and death. Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) is mediated by toxin production, including toxins A and B and possibly binary toxins. Improvements in molecular epidemiological techniques are increasingly enhancing our understanding of C. difficile. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041566 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041565&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003016%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Background. Broad spectrum antibiotics are widely used as initial empiric treatment in ICUs because of the high mortality of sepsis in critically ill patients. We evaluated the impact of choice of empiric antimicrobial regimens on the emergence of bacterial resistance, length of stay and mortality in our ICU patients. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041565 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041564&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003004%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we used a novel approach combining the use of bio-informatic epitope prediction with a unique set of host and viral genetic data to identify a key protective HLA A*03 restricted epitope. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041564 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041563&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002990%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Complete protection against Plasmodium yoelii malaria has been demonstrated using a heterologous prime-boost regime with viral vectors encoding the 42kDa region of merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) in a mouse model. This successful regime incorporated a human adenovirus serotype 5 (AdHu5) prime, boosted eight weeks later with a modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) vector. Adenoviral vectors have generated great scientific interest in recent years and appear to be superior viral vectors with great potential in vaccine regimes. Their potential use in humans, however, is limited by natural anti-vector immunity to human adenoviruses, but this problem could be largely circumvented by the use of simian adenoviral vaccine vectors. Recent clinical trials have suggested that the simian adenoviral... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041563 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041562&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002989%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In most compartmental models of disease spread, spatial-temporal interactions among individuals are homogenous and instantaneous. These assumptions have been gradually replaced by network-based, time and space-explicit constructs of the environment in individual-based models that are more accurate and mechanistic. The time-series data needed are however, prohibitively large and expensive to collect. In this feasibility study, the authors present a similar attempt based on more easily collected, relative visitation frequencies in staff movement patterns (collected over 2 weeks at a Surgical ICU (SICU) of an academic hospital). We hypothesize that under assumptions of continuity and periodicity of shifts, the time-dependent movement patterns are well estimated by relative frequencies. Moveme... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041562 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041561&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002977%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Chikungunya fever (CHIKF) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus disease of the Togaviridae family transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. While initially reported as a disease of travellers and migrant workers, local transmission of CHIKF was documented in Singapore in 2008. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041561 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041560&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002965%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Influenza remains one of the serious problems of public health. The plant extracts provide an alternative source for substances with antiviral properties. The current study investigated the protective effect of a polyphenol-rich extract from the medicinal plant Geranium sanguineum L. (PC) in mice, nasally (i.n.) challenged with influenza A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2) virus (IV) and its effects on mice lungs. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041560 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041556&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002643%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The ELISPOT assay using PBMC and PF-MC is a useful adjunct to the current tests for diagnosing abdominal TB. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041556 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161261&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003375%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Automated rep-PCR assays on the DiversiLab system were used for MRSA, A. baumannii and for the first time ESBL-producing Klebsiella spp. and proved as a rapid and reliable method for molecular analysis of nosocomial outbreaks. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161261 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225907&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003594%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe a 69-year-old female farmer with diabetes mellitus who developed subcutaneous infection due to a plant pathogen, Corynespora cassiicola. The organism was identified based on characteristic morphotypes and confirmed by sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. The patient was treated successfully with amphotericin B therapy. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225907 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225907 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161266&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003569%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The misdiagnosis of serious illness during the current flu pandemic has been highlighted in your journal by Payne et al, and others have raised their concern. We have reviewed 110 cases of “query H1N1” presenting to our Infectious Diseases service and have found a variety of alternative diagnoses, some of which required significantly different management. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161266 Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161268&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003442%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Streptoccocus pneumoniae is an important and well-known cause of bacteriemia in both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients. The most common manifestation of pneumococcal infection is pneumonia, which can be associated with local complications (empyema, pericarditis, lung abscess), extrapulmonary infections (middle otitis, sinusitis, meningitis, or less frequent such as endocarditis, septic arthritis, and peritonitis). Other complications like tenosynovitis, chorioamnionitis, and abscesses involving the psoas, liver, pancreas, spleen, and kidney are even less common. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161268 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161262&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003417%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Leptospira interrogans is the etiological agent of leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease that affects populations worldwide. We have identified in proteomic studies a protein that is encoded by the gene LIC10314 and expressed in virulent strain of L. interrogans serovar Pomona. This protein was predicted to be surface exposed by PSORT program and contains a p83/100 domain identified by BLAST analysis that is conserved in protein antigens of several strains of Borrelia and Treponema spp. The proteins containing this domain have been claimed antigen candidates for serodiagnosis of Lyme borreliosis. Thus, we have cloned the LIC10314 and expressed the protein in Escherichia coli BL21-SI strain by using the expression vector pAE. The recombinant protein tagged with N-terminal hexahistidine... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161262 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161267&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003430%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Novel influenza A/H1N1 2009 is a new flu virus that has emerged and continued to spread globally. During the pandemic outbreak, confirming diagnosis of influenza virus infection was critical, since there is no certain clinical presentation that could distinguish influenza virus from other respiratory pathogen and the benefit from antiviral agent was limited to early intervention. However, in resource-limited countries, the assess to standard diagnosis of influenza virus by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is seriously limited, resulting in delaying report following high volume of request. Comparing to RT-PCR, the rapid influenza diagnostic test (RDT) is more cost friendly, easily accessible and widely available. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161267 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161264&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003387%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Thirty-three persons became victims of a serial knife stabbing incident. One of the first victims one day later disclosed that he was HIV-infected. Thereafter thirty-one victims initiated HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), one exposed patient declined. None of the victims evaluated had seroconverted six months later. In most such incidents HIV exposure will be difficult to rule out as reliable information on the HIV serostatus of all serial victims will be lacking. It appears prudent, however, to inform serial stab victims about the potential risk of HIV transmission and to at least consider PEP in such scenarios. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161264 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225896&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003429%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The frequencies of mycobacterial antigen-specific TCM and TEM are associated with disease severity of pulmonary tuberculosis and TCM are associated with short-term effects of anti-TB chemotherapy. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225896 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161265&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309003363%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A patient with classic Whipple's disease developed erythema nodosum leprosum-like lesions and fever one month after the beginning of an accurate therapy with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome was suspected, but corticosteroid therapy failed to improve the patient. Finally, thalidomide was used and successfully induced rapid improvement. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161265 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161263&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002941%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Our results suggest that innate immune pathways are involved in the recognition of Dengue Virus by HepG2 cells. These observations may contribute to the understanding of the inflammatory responses induced by Dengue Virus–hepatocytes interaction during dengue diseases. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161263 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161259&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900276X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Probabilistic transmission model can incorporate virus-specific data on experimental viral shedding, long-term sentinel physician and laboratory surveillance to predict virus-specific infection risks in Taiwan. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161259 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041552&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002758%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Novel targets for the management of HIV infection have become increasingly relevant in view of extensive drug resistance, side effects and high pill burden of some of the conventional anti-retroviral agents. Structure based drug design using X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectrometry have lead to the identification of novel class of drugs targeting new stages of HIV life cycle. These agents include chemokine receptor antagonists and the integrase inhibitors which were recently approved for HIV treatment, as well as numerous other agents directed to previously untested targets such as the maturation inhibitors, zinc finger inhibitors, pharmacological CDK inhibitors, Tat–TAR interaction inhibitors, anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody, antisense oligonucleoti... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041552 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161258&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002783%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This study describes Salmonella serotypes circulating within a defined geographical area over a decade. Prospective molecular analysis of isolates of S. enterica by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) detection will determine the geo-phylogenetic relationship of isolates within our region. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161258 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041559&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002813%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Legionella spp. are considered as opportunistic pathogens causing pneumonia mainly in compromised hosts, in the elderly or in tobacco and/or alcohol addicted. Although immunocompromised patients are also considered at risk for legionellosis, pneumonia by Legionella spp. has been rarely described in AIDS patients. Furthermore, antibodies against Legionella not always have been detected in AIDS patients with Legionella pneumonia. To our knowledge, no systematic survey of the prevalence of antibodies to Legionella spp. has been performed among HIV-infected subjects with no clinical records of Legionella pneumonia. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041559 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918015&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002400%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The rationale and efficacy of current immunization strategies are challenged. Based on the results presented here and the availability of vaccines with long-lasting coverage, the authors find that recommendations of immunization should be based on lifetime risk instead of single journey itineraries. The authors find that a recommendation and/or cost-benefit discussion would be relevant in the pre-travel counselling of most – especially younger – travellers to endemic areas. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918015 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:21:33 +0100 2918015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041555&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002795%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The T SPOT-TB assay can be a useful tool for diagnosing extra-pulmonary TB in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients, particularly for tuberculous meningitis, pericarditis, lymphadenitis, and intestinal TB. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041555 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225902&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002680%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A 34 year old corpsman developed acute Q fever upon return from Iraq. Subsequent testing demonstrated trace mitral regurgitation and widely discrepant serologic testing results between commercial and reference laboratories. We discuss the dilemma of isolated minor echocardiographic abnormalities and propose caution in the interpretation of Q fever serologic tests. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225902 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3161260&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002722%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The level of antisepsis provided by the tested solution is similar or greater than that obtained with other antiseptics currently in use, and further clinical testing of the new antiseptic is warranted. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3161260 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3161260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041558&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002710%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Recently, the immunodiagnostic tests, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) release assays (IGRAs) for TB infection, have been developed. These tests are based on the Mycobacterium tuberculosis specific antigens early secretory antigenic target 6 (ESAT-6) and culture filtrate protein 10 (CFP-10), and include a whole-blood interferon-γ enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (QuantiFERON-TB Gold [QFT-G], Cellestis Ltd, Victoria, Australia) and an enzyme-linked immunospot assay (T SPOT.TB, Oxford Immunotec, Oxfordshire, UK). Both tests have shown promising results in the detection of latent TB infection (LTBI) and the QFT-G is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) U.S. approved and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended test for diagnosing latent tuberculosis. Furthermore, several studies d... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041558 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225903&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002655%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe the case of a sixteen-year-old male who presented with multiple subcutaneous mycetomas proven on culture to be secondary to Pseudallescheria boydi., The lesions responded completely to oral potassium iodide solution. To our knowledge this has never been reported in humans. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225903 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041557&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002667%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Long term pain in the elderly following zoster is associated with identifiable characteristics during the acute illness. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041557 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041553&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002679%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Despite significant co-morbidities and complications, nearly half of all patients with IE, including those with disease due to S. aureus and enterococci, successfully completed their treatment as outpatients. Continuous infusion devices were successfully used in 32 patients, including 22 with disease due to S. aureus. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041553 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918020&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002709%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report on a case of retinal necrosis in an HIV-infected patient where polymerase chain reaction (PCR) specific for Treponema pallidum performed on vitreous fluid was used to confirm a diagnosis of ocular syphilis. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918020 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918019&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002692%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with interest Luzzati et al's recent review of spinal infections presenting to two Italian hospitals over an 11-year period. They presented data on 27 cases of spinal tuberculosis (TB), and concluded that tuberculous vertebral osteomyelitis was associated with significant diagnostic delay, need for operative intervention and ongoing back pain after completion of therapy. They found that most cases of spinal TB occurred in non-foreign-born individuals, although further data on ethnicity were not given. We have recently reviewed cases of tuberculous vertebral osteomyelitis in Sheffield, United Kingdom over a 10-year period, to examine epidemiology, clinical presentation, and clinical and radiological outcomes. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918019 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918018&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002631%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes On the 2nd July 2009 the UK moved to the ‘treatment phase’ to control the current Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza virus (‘swine’ influenza). In order to reduce the burden on primary care, patients are encouraged to use the NHS Direct online symptom checker, or to telephone the National Pandemic Flu Service. As a result, potential cases of ‘swine’ influenza are being assessed and treated without the need for direct assessment by a health professional. Only those with specific co-morbid illnesses, with symptoms for longer than 7 days or specific concerns are advised to see their Primary Care Physician. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918018 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918016&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900245X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Candidaemia remains a severe disease associated with high attributable mortality in the UK. In addition, candidaemia leads to additional ICU length of stay and costs. The implication is an attributable cost of at least £16.2 million with 683 deaths attributable to candidaemia per year in the UK. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918016 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918008&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002436%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: C. difficile has become an important public health concern with a significant mortality burden on the Texas population. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918008 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877779&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002412%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read Dr Ergonul's detailed letter with great interest, however, it is impossible to agree with any of his comments due to the reasons below. We would like to refer Dr. Ergonul to some basic statistics textbooks because he has a misunderstanding of the logic of calculation of sample size and power. Using a statistical software does not replace theoretical knowledge, nowadays, any statistical software can easily crunch some numbers as a sample size or power whenever you provide the necessary information. However, a wrong interpretation can lead to misleading conclusions like in this letter. First, sample size is not the necessary number that would “make” a finding statistically significant as used in this letter. In our study, effect size that is the difference between the mortality... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877779 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877779 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877777&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002254%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) infection in a 36-week pregnant woman. She was treated with ribavirin. She did not transmit the disease to her baby. Her baby was the first known to survive being delivered by a woman with CCHF. The initialization of ribavirin treatment probably resulted in the survival of the mother and her baby. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877777 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877774&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002321%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: UK guidance recommends that all patients with falciparum malaria be admitted to hospital, although a number of cohort studies in the developed world demonstrate that outpatient treatment of falciparum malaria is feasible and safe in selected patients. We review the literature on outpatient treatment in developed countries and present local data from East London where a selected immigrant population were successfully treated as outpatients. Although it is premature to claim that outpatient treatment of falciparum malaria is safe in all selected patients, we conclude it is time for a large UK-based safety study or randomised trial to dispel the belief that all patients with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum must be admitted to hospital. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877774 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877772&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002357%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The high carriage status among the slum children point towards the widespread environment contamination in low socio-economic housing conditions, in conformance with the pediatric population at higher risk for developing DEC diarrhea. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877772 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918010&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002618%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: A hospital-wide approach of DTP was practical and feasible in improving the diagnosis of CRBSI in a real practice setting. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918010 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225899&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900262X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: Our objective was to compare the virulence of 5 strains of Acinetobacter baumannii by using a mouse model of pneumonia.Methods: Six-week old female C3H/HeN mice were used. The pneumonia was inducted by intra-tracheal inoculation of 5.106 bacteria. Spontaneous outcome was evaluated by mortality, mice weight variations, and a clinical score. Bacterial counts in lungs, spleen and blood, and inflammatory response in lungs (dosages of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and macrophage inflammatory protein-2) were also measured. Lastly, a histological examination of lungs was performed for 3 strains, giving a histological score.Results: Global mortality varied from 13% to 79% (P (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225899 Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3225899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3041554&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002473%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: The relationship between community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) nasal colonization and subsequent infection in children is unknown. We sought to define risk factors for skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) in community children.Methods: A prior study measured S. aureus nasal colonization prevalence for 1300 community children. To detect subsequent SSTI in these children or a household member, surveys were administered 6 and 12 months following enrollment.Results: SSTIs were reported by 56/708 (8.1%) respondents during the initial 6-month interval. SSTI developed in 6/26 (23%) initially colonized with MRSA, 16/194 (8%) with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus colonization, and 34/474 (7%) not colonized with S. aureus (MRSA vs. not MRSA, ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3041554 Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3041554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918017&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002461%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report the clinical and pathological findings of the first death with fulminant co-infection by CA-MRSA. Since early empirical treatment with beta-lactam plus fluoroquinolone or macrolides is often initiated before specimen collections, bacterial co-infection in S-OIV may have been under-reported. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918017 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918011&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002448%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: One-fourth of the patients with pulmonary M. chelonae–abscessus group isolates met the ATS criteria; this percentage differs by species. Species distribution and clinical relevance differ from other regions. M. abscessus isolation in cystic fibrosis patients warrants special attention. Current ATS criteria might be too lenient to diagnose M. chelonae–abscessus group disease. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918011 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918014&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002369%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: HIV infection was associated with a premature presentation of frailty. Frailty was associated with greater comorbidity, markers of advanced immunodeficiency and adverse socioeconomic and clinical outcomes. Further study of frailty in patients with HIV infection is warranted. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918014 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918014 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918013&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002424%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Arthroplasty infections associated with remote infections were rare, and occurred like their potential exposure mostly more than 24 months post-arthroplasty. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918013 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918012&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002370%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The score model was able to identify adult cancer patients with bloodstream infection at lower risk for early death with an elevated degree of certainty as depicted by a very high negative predictive value. It is essential to prospectively validate the rule in a different group of patients. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918012 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877778&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900231X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In March 2009 issue of the journal a study by Elaldi et al. was published on the efficacy of oral ribavirin. The study reported ribavirin as not an efficacious, and even harmful drug in the treatment of Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), and stressed the necessity of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to assess the efficacy of the ribavirin in CCHF infected patients. Such a conclusion was different from the previous reports on the efficacy of ribavirin in CCHF. In previous reports, almost all the authors concluded their reports by stressing that the ribavirin was found to be beneficial, although statistically no significance was reached. Therefore, it was interesting to read such a report in the journal, which has different conclusions. However, there were inconsistencies between ... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877778 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877778 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918009&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002394%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The bacterial strains detected in MEEF, and their antibiotic sensitivity profiles, differed somewhat from those of PTTO. Antibiotic sensitivity was decreased in bacteria from PTTO compared with those in MEEF. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918009 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2918021&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002382%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The Oxford Handbook series has provided junior doctors and medical students with indispensable information and advice for decades and the Handbook of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology is its latest addition. The new offering is instantly recognisable as a member of the series, retaining a clashing colour scheme, and its compact size stands as a memorial to the late, germ-laden white coat pocket. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2918021 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2918021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877781&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002291%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This letter accuses us, with serious malconduct, mainly conflict of interest. COPE defines Conflict of Interest during peer-review process as “when an author, reviewer or editor has financial or personal relationships that inappropriately influence his or her actions (such relationships are also known as dual commitments, competing interests, or competing loyalties)”. So first of all, we have difficulty in understanding what a “scientific paper-producing organization” is and what the author is trying to imply with the accusation of a conflict of interest? When it comes to the accusation of the authors having conflict of interest with ribavirin producing companies, ribavirin has been an off-patent drug for more than 10 years and has been produced by many different companies includin... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877781 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877781 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877783&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002308%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Since the introduction of the Haemophilus influenzae serotype b (Hib) vaccine, the decline in invasive Hib disease and the relative increase in nontypeable H. influenzae (NTHi) infections has been well documented in many parts of the world. In South East Asia, however, Hib disease burden is controversial and has been a matter of debate. The decision on the use of Hib vaccine thus awaits for more data on the true incidence of Hib disease. In Thailand where Hib vaccine has not been nationally introduced, H. influenzae remains one of the most important respiratory pathogens. While studies regarding the infections caused by H. influenzae in Thailand have been exclusively to Hib, the situation of NTHi infections has been limited. The present study was therefore to determine the prevalence of a... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877783 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877776&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002229%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case of generic vancomycin treatment failure in a liver transplant patient with MRSA peritonitis and bacteremia, followed by a rapid sterilization of blood and peritoneal fluid after switching to the branded product. It raises concern about therapeutic equivalence of generic vancomycin. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877776 Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877785&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002230%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The treatment and/or prevention of catheter-related Gram-positive bacteremia using antibiotic-lock technique has been recommended in situations where removal of the catheter is not advisable. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877785 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877784&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002242%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Editor, There is growing interest in the potential use of real-time PCR (RT-PCR) technology in diagnosing bloodstream infection by detecting pathogen DNA in blood samples within a few hours. SeptiFast® is a multi-pathogen probe-based RT-PCR system that targets ribosomal sequences of bacteria and fungi. It detects and identifies the most common pathogens associated with bloodstream infection and has European regulatory approval for this purpose. Laboratory validation has confirmed the analytical performance of SeptiFast and studies assessing clinical utility, predominantly outwith intensive care, are now beginning to appear. These clinical studies report a systematic discordance between SeptiFast and blood cultures with a higher rate of positives by RT-PCR, often including a high pro... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877784 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877784 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877771&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002138%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The 3 following factors were found to be associated with complicated SAB in univariate analysis: community acquisition (56% vs 26%, P=0.002), concomitant bacteriuria (47% vs 19%, P=0.016) and persistent bacteremia (55% vs 26%, P=0.016). This last factor was associated with endocarditis, but not with other complications such as bone and joint infections. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877771 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877770&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002126%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: These data suggest that outcome of S. aureus bacteremia may be improved by an expert consultation service. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877770 Tue, 25 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877773&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002011%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: To minimize the risk of future outbreaks in Israel, successful marketing of the MMR vaccine to under-vaccinated sub-groups is essential. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877773 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877769&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002114%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Pertussis is an important problem for public health in Argentina. Divergence between vaccine strains and local isolates could contribute to the described pertussis epidemiology. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877769 Sun, 16 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877786&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002059%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes RS virus is the most common cause of respiratory illness in infants and young children. Approximately 1.8% of admitted patients with RS virus infection showed central nervous system (CNS) symptoms such as convulsion. A review of the literature suggests the possibility of an association between acute encephalopathy and RSV infection. Sweetman et al. reported that, of the 964 RSV-infected children admitted during a 4-year period, 12 (1.2%) were considered to have acute encephalopathy, and 7 had convulsions, excluding epilepsy and febrile convulsions. The positivity of virus genome and increased cytokines have been recently reported. We have previously shown that CSF NOx levels are elevated in influenza-associated encephalopathy and rotavirus-associated convulsions. Nitric oxide (NO), a typi... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877786 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877782&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002084%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic disease that can develop into a severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. It is an endemic disease in Turkey and large outbreaks have been observed during spring and summer months since 2002. The virus belongs to the genus Nairovirus in the Bunyaviridae family, and causes severe disease in humans, with a reported mortality rate of 15–70%. This tick-borne pathogen is transmitted to humans primary by the bite of an infected Ixodid tick (mostly of the Hyalomma genus). Human infection could be transmitted via direct contact with blood or tissues from infected humans or livestock. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877782 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877780&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002102%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes I read the article by Elaldi N et al. appeared on Journal of Infection 2009 Mar;58(3):238–44 which is titled “Efficacy of oral ribavirin treatment in Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever: a quasi-experimental study from Turkey” with a great concern. First of all, ethically, I assume there should be a declaration of “conflict of interest” at the end of the article according to the Committee on Publishing Ethics (COPE) and World Association of Medical Editors (WAME) agreements. I was not able to see that acknowledgement and I am specifically asking the distinguish authors if any of them have a relation to any organization which is a scientific paper producing organization in Turkey. If so, what reason made them not to declare this conflict of interest? My second concern, if there is an... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877780 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2877775&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001893%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: The study of a predicted outer membrane leptospiral protein encoded by the gene LIC12690 in mediating the adhesion process.Methods: The gene was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (SI) strain by using the expression vector pAE. The recombinant protein tagged with N-terminal hexahistidine was purified by metal-charged chromatography and used to assess its ability to activate human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).Results: The recombinant leptospiral protein of 95kDa, named Lp95, activated E-selectin in a dose-dependent fashion but not the intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). In addition, we show that pathogenic and non-pathogenic Leptospira are both capable to stimulate endothelium E-selectin and ICAM-1, but the pathogenic L. interrogans serov... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2877775 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2877775 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780181&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002047%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Noroviruses (NV), a genus of the Caliciviridae family, are the major causes of nonbacterial epidemic gastroenteritis affecting people of all ages. Like other RNA viruses, NVs are genetically and antigenically highly diverse. Recent epidemiological surveillances showed that GII norovirus is predominant and new genotypes in this genogroup are continually reported, raising a possibility that highly pathogenic strain might emerge and circulate. Recombination is another important factor in norovirus evolution and increasing data showed that recombinant noroviruses caused gastroenteritis epidemics. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780181 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780174&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002096%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Cerebrovascular complications of tuberculous meningitis are common, and may represent its most serious legacy. They present in clinically diverse ways, and continue to develop during the initial stages of treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging is the imaging modality of choice in detecting brain infarcts, typically revealing multiple or bilateral lesions in the territories of the middle cerebral artery perforating vessels. Vessel pathology appears to be a consequence of its immersion in the local inflammatory exudate. Infiltrative, proliferative and necrotising vessel pathologies have been described, but the relative contributions of each and of luminal thrombosis to brain damage remain unclear. There is some evidence that vasospasm may mediate strokes early in the course of the di... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780174 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780174 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780182&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002023%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) occurs mainly in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and is usually caused by gram-negative bacilli. Streptococcus pneumoniae has been considered to be a rare cause of SBP because it is not known as gastrointestinal normal flora. However, SBP caused by S. pneumoniae is common in the clinical setting. In one study, pneumococcal peritonitis accounted for 5.8% of all primary bacterial peritonitis. In addition, in a study of all culture-positive SBP infections in LC patients, during a 90-month period, SBP caused by S. pneumoniae accounted for 3.4% of infections (8 out 236 cases). However, there is limited data available regarding the clinical characteristics of SBP caused by S. pneumoniae in patients with liver cirrhosis in this era of increasing rates o... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780182 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780178&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309002035%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: Neutrophilia is frequently in hospitalized patients, so a screening test for infections would be very useful. The immature platelet fraction (IPF) is provided by the automated blood analyzer XE 2100 (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan) as a proportional value of the total optical platelet count [IPF%; an absolute count of immature platelets can also be obtained (AIPC)] to indicate the rate of platelet production. IPF could help to identify the aetiology of thrombocytopenia and to recognize the increased bone marrow activity as occurred during the course of infectious disease.Materials and methods: We selected from daily routine cell blood counts 535 samples from adult patients (age >14 years) with neutrophilia (>8×109/L) and platelets ≥150×109/L, to avoid bias due to physiologic... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780178 Sun, 02 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780178 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780175&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001868%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary and key recommendations: The aim of these guidelines is to describe a practical but evidence-based approach to the diagnosis and treatment of central nervous system tuberculosis in children and adults. We have presented guidance on tuberculous meningitis (TBM), intra-cerebral tuberculoma without meningitis, and tuberculosis affecting the spinal cord. Our key recommendations are as follows: 1. TBM is a medical emergency. Treatment delay is strongly associated with death and empirical anti-tuberculosis therapy should be started promptly in all patients in whom the diagnosis of TBM is suspected. Do not wait for microbiological or molecular diagnostic confirmation. 2. The diagnosis of TBM is best made with lumbar puncture and examination of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Suspect TBM if... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780175 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780175 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780183&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900190X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of death, with 8 million new cases and 2–3 million deaths per year. Approximately one-third of the world’s population is infected with the bacterium responsible, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and once infection is established the organism may persist indefinitely in a latent state. Of those who are infected, only ∼10% develop overt disease. This discrepancy between numbers infected and numbers who become ill is common to many infectious diseases and likely represents differences in the balance between host defences and the virulence of the organism. We investigated if a genetic factor, the gene for apolipoprotein E (APOE), is involved in the response to M. tuberculosis. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780183 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780183 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780176&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001911%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: Following the introduction of a 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-7) for children in early 2000 in the United States, a decrease in the incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) was seen in adults, likely due to a herd effect. However, there have been recent increases in IPD in adults caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes not included in PCV-7, so called “replacement disease”. We performed a population-based study to further investigate this emerging concern.Methods: Population-based incidence study in Olmsted County, Minnesota, United States, in adults aged ≥50 years.Results: From 1/1/1995 to 12/31/2007, 104 cases of IPD were identified in Olmsted County in adults aged ≥50 years. We found a 45% increase in the incidence rate of IPD from... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780176 Sun, 26 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780176 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780179&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001881%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The clinical effectiveness of oseltamivir for the A(H1N1) virus was reduced in the 2008–2009 season compared with the previous season, especially in children, probably due to the H274Y mutation. Oseltamivir seems to be not recommended for children and patients with high-risk underlying diseases infected with H274Y mutated A(H1N1) virus. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780179 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780179 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780177&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001716%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The number of NTED patients decreased over the 5-year period from 2000 to 2005, even though more than 100 patients contracted NTED in Japanese NICUs in 2005. MSSA as well as MRSA can cause NTED, and NTED is more severe in preterm infants than in term infants. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780177 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780173&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS016344530900187X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) strains have rapidly emerged worldwide as a cause of skin and soft tissue infections and occasionally severe disease. Although there have been relatively few reports from the UK, it is clear that the incidence of CA-MRSA infections is rising. Several distinct clonal CA-MRSA lineages have been identified causing infections in individuals both in the community and in UK hospitals. Their prevalence is likely to be considerably higher than reported. In this review article we clarify the terminology and definitions used for CA-MRSA, detail their emergence, and summarise the available information regarding their current epidemiology and clinical impact in the UK. We discuss management and preventative strategies, highlight limitations in existing surv... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780173 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780173 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780180&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001704%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Accumulation of point mutations and reassortment of cognate genome segments are the main forces driving the evolution of group A rotaviruses that continuously re-model the genetic pools of circulating rotaviruses. Genetic reassortment between human and heterologous strains is also believed to be an important mechanism enabling animal-like rotavirus neutralization antigens, which are novel for humans, to be incorporated onto the genetic backbone of human rotavirus strains. Emergence of such animal–human reassortants has substantially re-drawn the global map of strain prevalence of medically important rotavirus strains since the late 1990s. In contrast, zoonotic strains are rarely detected and are thought to be a minor contributor to the overall disease burden due to their low transmissibi... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780180 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780180 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2676304&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001662%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Human interleukin 6 (IL-6) has been shown to facilitate hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in vivo and in vitro, although it is not clear whether this is the result of a direct interaction between IL-6 and the HBV envelope proteins or of indirect mechanisms. A G/C polymorphism in the promoter region of IL-6 at position -174, influencing the degree of IL-6 expression, has been described in association with chronic inflammatory disorders and/or cancer. Whether the IL-6 genetic polymorphism at the -174 region may influence the clinical and/or serological outcome in patients with chronic HBV infection is not fully understood. To address this issue, we evaluated two separate patient databases. In a first, cross-sectional study, 107 consecutive HBV positive patients (76 males) with a median age o... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2676304 Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2676304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2676296&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001674%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The newly developed FTIR methodology has been demonstrated to be a reliable and accurate analytical tool, low cost and easy-to-operate, which permits a highly specific measurement of 13C enrichment in breath samples. As IRMS and NDIRS it allows to adequately discriminate between infected and non-infected subjects. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2676296 Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2676296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780184&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001698%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Legionella pneumophila pneumonia is an acute infectious disease that causes severe pneumonia. Legionella community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) has a mortality rate of 10%, which increases to 27% in patients who do not receive adequate antibiotic treatment as part of the empirical treatment on admission. Erythromycin has been the treatment of choice for Legionnaires disease since a retrospective study of the epidemic outbreak in Philadelphia in 1976 showed a significantly lower death rate in patients treated with this antibiotic. Recently, fluoroquinolones have been found to achieve high intracellular levels with a lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Legionella than erythromycin, resulting in successful treatment of patients with L. pneumophila pneumonia. Some clinical observa... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780184 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2676300&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001650%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Although the public response demonstrated vigilance and preparedness there were signs of complacency. Clear communication, updated scientific information and transparency on government decision making are warranted. Data of the study provide a baseline for an ongoing surveillance program to help shape policy and provide information to the international community. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2676300 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2676300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2676301&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001686%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: To evaluate the presence of HBV-DNA in 22,765 consecutive blood donors, who donated blood in the period from January 2006 to August 2007 at a transfusion centre in Lazio, a region in central Italy with low HBV endemicity.Methods: Each donation was individually tested using immunoenzymatic assays and nucleic acid amplification technologies (NAT). Samples that were reactive to generic NAT, Procleix Ultrio Assay were tested for HBV-DNA, HCV-RNA and HIV1-RNA by Discriminatory Procleix Ultrio NAT Assay. In samples that were reactive to generic NAT and negative for HBsAg, HCV-RNA and HIV1-RNA, HBV-DNA was further tested using Cobas TaqMan and an in-house nested PCR following an ultracentrifugation step. Sequence analysis confirmed HBV-DNA positivity.Results: Generic NAT ident... Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2676301 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2676301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2676294&cid=s_38514_20_f&fid=38514&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.journalofinfection.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0163445309001649%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: There was an increase of IPD caused by S. pneumoniae serotype 19A which was mainly related with the emergence of preexisting clones several of them closely related with international multidrug-resistant clones. These results should be considered when selecting the new conjugate pneumococcal vaccines. (Source: Journal of Infection) Journal of Infection journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2676294 Sun, 05 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2676294