Journal Of Infection In Developing Countries[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Evaluation of cutaneous leishmaniasis cases in Mersin, Türkiye: Impact of migration and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gülbudak H, Bozok T, Tezcan Ülger S … +3 more , İkizoğlu G, Delialioğlu N, Aslan G
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358770 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a significant public health concern in Türkiye, especially in the Southeastern Anatolia and Mediterranean regions. This study evaluated the epidemiological characteristics of...
INTRODUCTION: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a significant public health concern in Türkiye, especially in the Southeastern Anatolia and Mediterranean regions. This study evaluated the epidemiological characteristics of CL cases diagnosed at Mersin University Hospital, including the impact of migration and the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODOLOGY: The diagnosis of CL was confirmed by microscopic examination of lesion smears. In this study, data from 144 patients diagnosed with CL between January 2011 and December 2022 were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic characteristics of the patients, temporal distribution (by month and year), and lesion features (location, number, and duration) were included. RESULTS: CL was confirmed in 32.9% of patients (144/438). Of the 144 patients, 82 (56.9%) were Turkish citizens and 62 (43.1%) were Syrian refugees. The mean age was 20.7 ± 19.8 (1-78) years. CL was detected more frequently in females (52.1%, 75/144) and in the 0-20-year age group (64.6%, 93/144). The head-neck region was the most affected (53.9%), and the mean lesion duration was 6.8 ± 11.6 months. Most cases were detected in February and March. The number of cases increased with Syrian refugee migration but decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: Although the frequency of CL in the region has decreased in recent years, it remains a significant public health concern.
Combinatory in vitro effect of plant extracts with antibiotics on multi-resistant bacteria.
Dziri R, Hammadi I, Agreby E … +2 more , Trabelsi M, Maaroufi A
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358769 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance is recognized as one of the major health challenges. Thus, urgent therapeutic solutions are needed. This study aims to test the activity of plant extracts against multi-resistant ba...
INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance is recognized as one of the major health challenges. Thus, urgent therapeutic solutions are needed. This study aims to test the activity of plant extracts against multi-resistant bacteria, as well as the synergistic effect of these extracts with some antibiotics. METHODOLOGY: The evaluation of the antibacterial effect of eight medicinal extract plants (G. alypum, R. graveolens, U. dioica, P. lentiscus, A. vulgaris, L. angustifolia, T. vulgaris, and J. phoenicea) against 10 bacterial strains (K. pneumoniae, E. coli, C. freundii, S. haemolyticus, S. epidermidis, S. saprophyticus) has been performed using both wells and disks diffusion methods (DDM/WDM). The evaluation of the synergistic effect of some of the natural extracts with some antibiotics has been performed using the disk diffusion method (DDM). RESULTS: A significant difference resulting from the effect of various plant extracts on different bacterial species has been observed. Interestingly, an important inhibition zone related to the effect of the essential oil of T. vulgaris and L. angustifolia was observed in all bacterial strains. The combination of plants/antibiotics does not always give a more effective effect than the antibiotic /or the plant extract alone. The lavender oil seems to be able to enhance the activity of ertapenem on C. freundii, while the combination of A. vulgaris/ertapenem induced the reduction of the inhibition zone on the same species. CONCLUSIONS: These results are of great importance; regarding the valorization of natural resources for the creation of solutions to urgent health problems while taking advantage of existing pharmaceutical resources.
Pattern of bacterial bloodstream infections in hemodialysis patients.
Ain QU, Hashmi MN, Al Sayed A … +8 more , Raza H, Khan MA, Alahmari E, Alajlan R, Eladrosi R, Saeed MW, Ibrahim A, Hejaili F
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358768 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Bloodstream infection (BSI) is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients. Our objective was to identify pathogens causing BSI, its incidence, and associated risk factors. METHO...
INTRODUCTION: Bloodstream infection (BSI) is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients. Our objective was to identify pathogens causing BSI, its incidence, and associated risk factors. METHODOLOGY: Retrospective positive blood culture data were analyzed from five hemodialysis centers (January 2019 until December 2023) across Saudi Arabia. RESULTS: There were 437 bacteremia episodes in 432 patients, with 405 central line and 367 peripheral samples. The BSI rate was 0.67 per 100 patient months. 375 (85.8%) patients had a Central Venous Catheter (CVC), 27 (6.17%) had an arteriovenous fistula (AVF), 5 (1.14%) had an arteriovenous graft (AVG), and 30 (6.9%) had dual access. The central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rate was 1.41 per 100 patient months. Gram-positive organisms in the central line blood culture were 169 (44%), and Gram-negative were 200 (51.81%); 16 (4%) cases were polymicrobial, and there was one case of fungi. In peripheral blood cultures, 158 (48.9%) were Gram-positive and 150 (46.4%) were Gram-negative. The most common pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, and Staphylococcus epidermidis in Gram-positive organisms, and Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Gram-negative organisms. Three cases of fungal infection occurred during the study period. Two-thirds of patients (68%) required hospital treatment, and in 54% of the cases, there was loss of vascular access. Mortality due to sepsis within 4 weeks occurred in five patients. CONCLUSIONS: The risk of BSI in hemodialysis patients is high. Gram-negative pathogens contribute to half of the events. In Saudi Arabia, Gram-negative pathogen incidence is significant, and measures are required to curtail it.
Comparing the clinical outcomes of Remdesivir and Interferon beta-1a in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: A cross-sectional retrospective single-center study.
Asgari M, Kousha A, Ghaffari ME … +2 more , Yaghubi Kalurazi T, Zaminy A
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358767 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The effectiveness of remdesivir (RDV) and interferon beta-1a (IFNβ-1a) was assessed and compared in patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). METHODOLOGY: A total of 162 hospitalize...
INTRODUCTION: The effectiveness of remdesivir (RDV) and interferon beta-1a (IFNβ-1a) was assessed and compared in patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). METHODOLOGY: A total of 162 hospitalized COVID-19 patients were divided into two groups: the RDV group and the IFNβ-1a group. Through laboratory tests and a physical examination, the patient's clinical condition was evaluated. RESULTS: RDV and IFNβ-1a treatments significantly decreased fever, cough, shortness of breath, and weakness in COVID-19 patients (All p < 0.001). RDV treatment significantly decreased shortness of breath, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and creatinine, relative to IFNβ-1a treatment (p < 0.03, p = 0.001, and p < 0.004, respectively). RDV treatment significantly decreased Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) in COVID-19 patients (p = 0.006). The mean time of hospitalization was 8.9 days in the RDV group and 8.2 days in the IFNβ-1a group. There was no statistical difference between the two groups. The IFNβ-1a group had a considerably lower rate of intensive care unit (ICU) admission than the RDV group (p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: No difference in clinical outcomes was found between RDV and IFNβ-1a treatments. RDV was more effective than IFNβ-1a in moderating the inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients by reducing LDH and ESR. The IFNβ-1a group had a considerably lower rate of ICU admission than the RDV group.
Evaluation of antimicrobial effect of the Neo Pill device on fixed orthodontic appliances: in vitro pilot study.
Tambur Z, Trifunović J, Avramov S … +3 more , Aleksić E, Malešević A, Biočanin V
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358766 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Oral hygiene in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances is not satisfactory in most cases. Namely, rough and irregular edges on fixed orthodontic appliances can facilitate attachment of microorganisms, w...
INTRODUCTION: Oral hygiene in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances is not satisfactory in most cases. Namely, rough and irregular edges on fixed orthodontic appliances can facilitate attachment of microorganisms, which causes periodontal diseases and caries. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the reduction of microbes between the wires of fixed orthodontic appliances after the action of the Neo Pill electrolysis device. METHODOLOGY: The study was carried out in the laboratory of the Faculty of Stomatology in Pančevo, where serial dilutions were prepared in buffered peptone water, and together with the most appropriate dilution rate for the desired colony-forming units in a given volume (80-120 colony-forming units per plate) for bacterial strains (Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175, Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356, Actinomyces odontolyticus ATCC 17929) as well as for Candida albicans (ATCC 10231). The microbial assessment was done for the detection of colony-forming units from the samples before and after using the Neo Pill electrolysis device. All data were statistically analyzed with the Wilcoxon Two-Sample Test. RESULTS: Results of analyses revealed that the number of microbes in all Neo Pill groups was significantly lower compared to the Control group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The Neo Pill electrolysis device is efficient in the removal of oral bacteria and fungi and could be an addition to the oral hygiene for patients with fixed orthodontic appliances.
Dominance of specific lung bacteria over microbiota diversity in COVID-19 clinical trajectories.
Li Q, Liu J, Zhang J … +3 more , Xiong T, Shi Y, Yu X
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358765 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the impact of lung microbiota on COVID-19 outcomes. METHODOLOGY: Clinical data and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) data and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were retro...
INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the impact of lung microbiota on COVID-19 outcomes. METHODOLOGY: Clinical data and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) data and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were retrospectively collected from 40 COVID-19 patients for Targeted Next-generation Sequencing (TNGS). Microbial diversity was then analyzed across different clinical severity groups. Additionally, biomarkers were identified using Linear Discriminant Analysis Effect Size (LEfSe) and evaluated by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) - Area Under the Curve (AUC). RESULTS: The patients were classified by severity as mild (n = 3), moderate (n = 13), severe (n = 16), or critical (n = 8) symptoms. The α-diversity of respiratory flora showed no significant differences between groups (p > 0.05). While β-diversity analysis revealed significant compositional distinctions (p < 0.05). Critically ill patients had higher levels of Pseudomonas aeruginosa compared to other groups, ROC-plot AUC value of 0.856. Patients were then categorized into two outcome-based groups: Non-survivors (n = 5) and Survivors (n = 35). No significant differences in α-diversity of respiratory flora were observed between the two groups (p > 0.05), while β-diversity revealed distinct compositional differences (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the ROC curve for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (AUC = 0.846) indicated its predictive value for mortality. CONCLUSIONS: This study has elucidated the characteristics of pulmonary microbiota across different COVID-19 severities, identifying bacteria associated with severe illness, mortality, and relevant clinical markers. The lung microbiota exhibits low diversity, making the pulmonary microecology more vulnerable to disruption. Therefore, invasive species may influence clinical outcomes in affected patients.
Prevalence of PVL and TSST-1 genes in nasal Staphylococcus aureus carriage among healthcare workers in a tertiary hospital.
Anveshi AK, Rani V, Bhatnagar A … +2 more , Narang M, Gaind R
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358764 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen associated with nosocomial and community-acquired infections. The main reservoirs of S. aureus/MRSA in hospitals are the colonized asymptomatic healthcare work...
INTRODUCTION: Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen associated with nosocomial and community-acquired infections. The main reservoirs of S. aureus/MRSA in hospitals are the colonized asymptomatic healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of MSSA and MRSA nasal carriage and their association with pvl and tsst1 genes among HCWs. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was performed. A total of 230 HCWs and 200 controls were screened for nasal carriage of S. aureus. All isolates were identified by conventional microbiological methods and confirmed by Vitek. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using disk-diffusion and MIC method. PCR was used to detect the mecA, pvl and tsst1 genes. RESULTS: S. aureus nasal colonization was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) among HCWs, 23% (53/230) compared to the control 0.5% (1/200). Prevalence of MRSA was 9.6% (22/230) among HCWs. All isolates were susceptible to vancomycin and linezolid. Highest resistance was observed with ciprofloxacin and erythromycin among both - MSSAand MRSA. One MSSA isolated showed high-level mupirocin resistance (MIC > 1024 µg/mL). PVL and TSST-1genes were detected 7.4% and 0.8% of HCWs, respectively, with higher prevalence in MRSA isolates. CONCLUSIONS: A high rate of S. aureus/MRSA carriage among HCWs was observed . The presence of PVL and TSST-1 raises concern due to poor infection control compliance. Periodic screening and improved infection prevention protocols are recommended.
Epidemiological profile of SARS-CoV-2 in Mauritania.
Ahmed K, Mohamed Mahmoud SM, Hamed CT … +2 more , Ahmed ML, Mohamed Abdellhi MV
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358763 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted with a profound sense of urgency and has provided significant results that will complement previous studies carried out in Mauritania-a country with unique socio-economic and health...
INTRODUCTION: This study was conducted with a profound sense of urgency and has provided significant results that will complement previous studies carried out in Mauritania-a country with unique socio-economic and healthcare characteristics-to monitor the epidemiological situation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The study aimed to comprehensively and rigorously investigate the epidemiological profile of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strains circulating in Mauritanian patients. METHODOLOGY: This descriptive study was carried out on 84 patients at the Cheikh Mohamed Ben Zayed Hospital and the National Institute of Hepato-Virology in Nouakchott. The samples were sequenced by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the Illumina NextSeq 2000 type. The data were analyzed by the EPI Info 7 and SPSS 21 software. RESULTS: The average age of the patients was 51 years, and the distribution of cases by age showed that the virus did not select a specific age group. The results indicated that the most frequent variant was Delta (33.33%). The death rate was very high (34.52%) compared to the national death rate, with a peak in the 58-69 years age group. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides an overview of the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in Mauritania. These findings not only help identify what policies or strategies should be designed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, but also pave the way for a more effective response to similar pandemics in the future.
Clinical impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms within interferon signaling pathway gene in pregnant women with COVID-19.
Türkseven B, Demir NA, Sümer Ş … +5 more , Ural O, Özdemir EM, Seçilmiş Ö, Çora T, Kıratlı HE
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358762 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate if gene expression modifications due to two different single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutations within the interferon-α/β receptor-2 (IFNAR2) gene had an effect on clini...
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate if gene expression modifications due to two different single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutations within the interferon-α/β receptor-2 (IFNAR2) gene had an effect on clinical prognosis in pregnant coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. METHODOLOGY: The study included 173 pregnant patients who tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Oligonucleotides were designed for the SNPs with nucleotide database codes rs13050728 and rs2236757 in the hospital's genetic laboratory, and RT-PCR analyses were performed. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) symptoms (runny nose, nasal congestion, and fatigue); between rs2236757 normal-carrier-homozygous mutant pregnant women and the occurrence of symptoms (p = 0.004). However, these URTI symptoms were never seen in homozygous mutant pregnant women. Upon analysis of the relationship between rs13050728 normal-carrier-homozygous mutant pregnant women and the occurrence of symptoms, there was a significant difference between URTI symptoms, and nausea and vomiting (p = 0.001, p = 0.027, respectively). The URTI symptoms were never seen in homozygous mutant and carrier pregnant women. There was no significant association between rs13050728 and rs2236757 normal-carrier-homozygous mutant pregnant women and severity of disease, intensive care unit admission, pregnancy complications, need for oxygen support, and radiologic involvement. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study will serve as a guide in identifying high-risk individuals, providing treatment, and contributing to the understanding of genetic factors in future viral pandemics.
Metagenomic next-generation sequencing diagnoses Talaromyces marneffei infections: case report and review.
Xu S, Ding Y, Li M … +5 more , Lin Y, Wang X, Liu N, Zhang L, Xu T
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358761 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Talaromyces marneffei is a pathogenic dimorphic fungus known for causing severe opportunistic infections that can be life-threatening. The fungus is most commonly found in Southeast Asia and southern China....
INTRODUCTION: Talaromyces marneffei is a pathogenic dimorphic fungus known for causing severe opportunistic infections that can be life-threatening. The fungus is most commonly found in Southeast Asia and southern China. CASE REPORT: This case report describes the case of a young male patient infected with T. marneffei who was neither human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive nor possessed anti-IFN-γ antibodies, and who resided outside the typical endemic regions. The patient developed cough and sputum three months after the removal of the left arm fracture fixator, and was initially misdiagnosed with tuberculosis; however, the response to anti-tuberculosis treatment was not good. The diagnosis of subsequent recurrence was unknown. The condition recurred during the illness, and he was ultimately diagnosed with talaromycosis via metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). The patient's condition improved after appropriate treatment with liposomal amphotericin B. CONCLUSIONS: Previous studies have found that T. marneffei infections are concentrated in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome due to HIV infection, and in anti-IFN-γ antibody-positive patients. However, infections are increasing in individuals who are not immunosuppressed and are often misdiagnosed and underdiagnosed during the initial course of the disease. Therefore, clinicians should be aware that mNGS is an effective technique for detecting T. marneffei infection in non-endemic areas where they encounter non-HIV infected patients. This case report aims to raise the awareness of physicians regarding this rare disease in non-endemic areas and non-HIV patients.
Investigation of clonal relationship in Klebsiella pneumoniae strains grown in invasive specimens obtained from intensive care units.
Güdücüoğlu H, Davarcı İ, Tanrıverdi ES … +4 more , Arabacı F, Kırılmaz E, Aldı Fİ, Otlu B
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358760 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is a bacterium in "critical" category on the World Health Organization's list of "priority pathogens". The aim of our study is to identify the carbapenem re...
INTRODUCTION: Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is a bacterium in "critical" category on the World Health Organization's list of "priority pathogens". The aim of our study is to identify the carbapenem resistance genes of K. pneumoniae isolates obtained from blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples sent from the intensive care units of our hospital and to investigate the clonal relationship among them. METHODOLOGY: K. pneumoniae strains isolated from blood and CSF samples routinely collected from the intensive care units of our hospital over a two-year period were included in the study. Carbapenemase screening of CRKP strains was performed using Carba NP and CIM tests. Additionally, carbapenemase resistance genes (blaKPC, blaNDM, blaVIM, blaIMP, and blaOXA-48) and clone analysis were performed using AP-PCR on these strains. RESULTS: A total of 186 strains with reduced susceptibility to at least one carbapenem were detected. In carbapenemase screening, the sensitivity of the CIM test was 98.3% (169/172), specificity was 7.1% (1/14); the sensitivity of Carba NP was 90.7% (156/172), specificity was 78.6% (11/14). 83.9% of the strains were blaOXA-48, 4.8% blaNDM, and 3.8% blaKPC positive. blaIMP and blaVIM resistance genes were not detected. One hundred and eighty-six K. pneumoniae isolates were identified with 62 different genotypes, and isolates showing clustering were grouped into 30 different clusters. The clustering rate of these isolates was 82.8%. CONCLUSIONS: Resistant bacteria can cause small outbreaks in ICUs. Therefore, to identify high-risk clones and prevent further spread, there is a need to increase capacity to support outbreak investigations and surveillance with real-time whole genome sequencing.
Characteristics, risk factors, and mortality determinants in patients with polymicrobial bloodstream infections.
Liu Z, Yang J, Zhang X
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Nov · PMID 41358759 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The incidence and mortality of polymicrobial bloodstream infections (pBSIs) are increasing, yet their clinical characteristics and outcomes remain poorly understood. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective analysis wa...
INTRODUCTION: The incidence and mortality of polymicrobial bloodstream infections (pBSIs) are increasing, yet their clinical characteristics and outcomes remain poorly understood. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 425 patients with confirmed bloodstream infections at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between January 2022 and September 2023. Clinical data, laboratory indicators, and in-hospital mortality rates were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: Lower respiratory tract infections were identified as the most common source of pBSIs (34.4%). The most frequent pathogen combination involved Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) and Gram-positive cocci (GPC), accounting for 32.8% of cases. Among the 257 pathogens isolated, 122 were Gram-positive bacteria (47.4%) and 130 were Gram-negative bacteria (50.6%). The most commonly isolated organisms included Escherichia coli (15.6%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10.1%), and Enterococcus faecalis (7.0%), with a notable detection rate of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS; 17.9%). Gastrointestinal tumors, invasive mechanical ventilation, intra-abdominal infections, and hospital-acquired infections were identified as independent risk factors for pBSIs. Compared to monomicrobial bloodstream infections (mBSIs), pBSIs were associated with a higher mortality rate (24% vs. 17.3%, p = 0.075) and a greater incidence of septic shock (36.8% vs. 24%, p = 0.006). Diabetes, invasive mechanical ventilation, and respiratory failure were independent predictors of mortality in pBSIs patients. CONCLUSIONS: Hospitalized patients with pBSIs are at a significantly higher risk of adverse outcomes, including mortality. Early identification and targeted management of risk factors are crucial to improving prognosis and reducing mortality in patients with pBSIs.
Cryptococcus neoformans and PLWH: the role of serum cryptococcal antigen screening.
Gül Ö, Duygu Demirbaş N, Barış A … +5 more , Derin O, Tahtasakal CA, Öncül A, Sevgi DY, Dökmetaş İ
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187195 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Serum cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening is crucial for early diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis. This study presents the results of CrAg screening among people living with HIV (PLWH) followed in our c...
INTRODUCTION: Serum cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening is crucial for early diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis. This study presents the results of CrAg screening among people living with HIV (PLWH) followed in our clinic over the past six years. METHODOLOGY: Patients with a CD4+ T cell count below 200 cells/µL who were tested for CrAg were included in the study. Data regarding age, gender, comorbidities, CD4+ T cell count, HIV RNA level, blood culture results, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings-including CrAg, microscopy, culture, and PCR-were retrospectively collected. Descriptive statistical methods were used for the analysis. RESULTS: Serum CrAg testing was performed on 99 patients, nine of whom tested positive. Among the patients with positive antigenemia, four were diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis. In two cases, serum CrAg positivity was interpreted as false-positive due to the absence of clinical or laboratory findings consistent with cryptococcal infection. One patient died shortly after the CrAg test and could not be further evaluated. Two patients were lost to follow-up; however, one of them presented with symptoms two months later and was diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis. Additionally, there was one patient with confirmed cryptococcal meningitis despite an initial negative serum CrAg result. CONCLUSIONS: CrAg positivity may be detected during the asymptomatic phase of cryptococcal infection. Although current guidelines recommend serum CrAg screening for individuals with CD4+ T cell counts below 100 cells/µL, the detection of positive results in those with CD4+ T cell counts above this threshold should also be carefully evaluated, considering the possibility of false-positive or false-negative results.
Prevalence, seasonal distribution, and diversity of tick species in Bié Province, Angola.
Rosário E, Sequeira F, Cardoso L … +2 more , Aguin-Pombo D, Patrícia Lopes A
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187194 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Livestock is vital to Angola's economy, with cattle farming being especially important in Bié Province. Productivity is hampered by tick (Ixodida: Ixodidae) infestation, causing damage and potential transmi...
INTRODUCTION: Livestock is vital to Angola's economy, with cattle farming being especially important in Bié Province. Productivity is hampered by tick (Ixodida: Ixodidae) infestation, causing damage and potential transmission of pathogens. Despite known tick diversity in Angola, recent data for Bié Province are lacking. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to August 2024 in Bié Province across 11 localities, covering commercial and family-based cattle systems. Systematic random sampling was used to examine 686 cattle for ticks during early dry and rainy seasons. Ticks were collected from 7 anatomical regions and morphologically identified; the data were analyzed for seasonal variation, spatial distribution, and gender ratio. RESULTS: A total of 3,136 adult ticks were collected from 686 cattle (30.3% infestation rate). Ten species across 3 genera were identified, namely Rhipicephalus, Amblyomma, and Hyalomma. Rhipicephalus evertsi mimeticus was the most prevalent (27.9%), followed by R. evertsi evertsi (13.2%), R. (Boophilus) decoloratus (13.1%), and Amblyomma variegatum (12.3%). Tick abundance was quite similar between seasons, and females predominated (51.1%). Infestation varies by commune. CONCLUSIONS: The findings reveal substantial tick diversity in Bié Province and confirm ongoing exposure of cattle to multiple species.
Impact of all-oral direct-acting antivirals on hepatocellular carcinoma in Vietnamese patients with chronic HCV genotype 1.
Vo TD, Bui VT
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187193 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 is a significant cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Vietnam. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are effective in achieving sustained virologic response (SVR), potenti...
INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 is a significant cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Vietnam. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are effective in achieving sustained virologic response (SVR), potentially reducing HCC incidence. This study evaluated how DAA regimens affect HCC incidence in Vietnamese patients with chronic liver disease related to HCV genotype 1. METHODOLOGY: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 450 HCV-1 patients treated with DAAs at the Liver Clinic, University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Patients were followed for a median duration of 0.5 years. Treatment regimens included combinations of NS5A inhibitors with NS3/4A protease inhibitors or NS5B polymerase inhibitors. Data on demographics, baseline clinical characteristics (e.g., alpha-fetoprotein, albumin levels), and liver function were collected before initiating DAA treatment. Follow-up data, including SVR rates and HCC incidence, were assessed at the end of treatment and during the post-treatment observation period (median follow-up of 0.5 years). This approach allowed us to compare pre-treatment baseline data with post-treatment outcomes to evaluate the impact of DAA therapy on HCC risk factors and incidence. RESULTS: SVR was achieved in 94.8% of patients, with an HCC incidence of 1.1% at 1 year for SVR patients, versus 6.5% for non-SVR patients. Significant risk factors for HCC included hypoalbuminemia, elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels, and non-SVR status. CONCLUSIONS: DAAs significantly reduce HCC incidence in Vietnamese patients with HCV-1; however, ongoing surveillance is essential for high-risk patients.
Investigation of tetanus seropositivity levels in adult patients with rabies risk exposure admitted to a hospital in Ankara.
Gürkaynak P, Demircan ŞA, Tülek N … +3 more , Kınıklı S, Erdinç FŞ, Tuncer G
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187192 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess tetanus seropositivity levels among adult patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital following rabies risk exposure, and to explore potential factors influencing their immunolo...
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess tetanus seropositivity levels among adult patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital following rabies risk exposure, and to explore potential factors influencing their immunological status. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional descriptive epidemiological study included 182 adult individuals (68 females and 114 males) who presented to the hospital following rabies risk exposure. The demographic data was collected during a face-to-face interview, and the tetanus antibody concentrations were assessed using a micro-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Serum antibody levels of ≥ 0.1 IU/mL were defined as "seropositive", while values below this threshold were considered "seronegative". RESULTS: Seropositivity was identified in 81.9% of the patients. There was a significant decline in antibody levels with age (p < 0.001). The Spearman correlation analysis showed a moderately significant negative correlation between age and antibody titers (r = - 0.404, p < 0.001). In addition, there were significantly higher tetanus antibody levels in patients from urban areas, those vaccinated during pregnancy, and those vaccinated within the past 10 years (p = 0.025, 0.036, and 0.013, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the results highlight a reduction in tetanus antibody levels with age, emphasizing the importance of receiving a booster dose every 10 years. In addition, rabies risk exposure, particularly in older adults, presents a valuable opportunity to administer tetanus vaccination.
LTBP1 inhibits severe pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus following cytomegalovirus reactivation via regulation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
Zhang S, Zhang H, Ju X
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187191 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Severe viral and bacterial pneumonia are among the most common causes of death worldwide. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein 1 (LTBP...
INTRODUCTION: Severe viral and bacterial pneumonia are among the most common causes of death worldwide. This study investigated the effects and mechanisms of latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein 1 (LTBP1)'s on methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)-induced severe pneumonia following cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation. METHODOLOGY: A young mouse model of severe pneumonia was established using Staphylococcus aureus and CMV. LTBP1 overexpression was induced, and pathological changes in lung tissue were assessed through H&E staining. Serum levels of inflammatory factors, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and interleukin (IL)-1β, were measured using ELISA. Bacterial load in the lungs was quantified, and protein expression levels of LTBP1, TGF-β1, Smad2, p-Smad2, Smad3, and p-Smad3 in lung tissue were analyzed using Western blot. RESULTS: The LTBP1 expression was reduced in the young mouse model of severe pneumonia induced by Staphylococcus aureus after cytomegalovirus reactivation. Overexpression of LTBP1 inhibited lung damage, reduced serum levels of inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α), and decreased bacterial load in the lungs. Additionally, overexpression of LTBP1 inhibited the activation of the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS: LTBP1 efficiently reduces severe pneumonia by activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for treating this condition.
A prediction model for admission to the intensive care unit in patients with perianal necrotizing fasciitis.
Ding Y, Xue Y, Zhu H … +5 more , Wang X, Ma H, Zhang H, Miao Y, Wang X
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187190 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Patients with perianal necrotizing fasciitis (PNF) frequently require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). The study aimed to develop a novel scoring system to predict ICU admission in PNF patients....
INTRODUCTION: Patients with perianal necrotizing fasciitis (PNF) frequently require admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). The study aimed to develop a novel scoring system to predict ICU admission in PNF patients. METHODOLOGY: This cohort study retrospectively recruited patients in the Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine. The outcome was the admission to the ICU. Random forest was used to select variables for the development of a new scoring system, whose performance was assessed using the area under the curve (AUC) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) and net reclassification improvement (NRI) were applied to assess the performance improvement of Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score and Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) compared to the new scoring system. RESULTS: Totally 106 eligible individuals with PNF were enrolled. SOFA, age, course of disease, and extent of disease were selected to develop the new scoring system, which was named "modified SOFA" (mSOFA). The AUC of the mSOFA was 0.974 (95% CI: 0.931-1.000). SOFA (NRI: -0.72, p = 0.010; IDI = -0.05, p = 0.002) and FGSI (NRI: -1.50, p < 0.001; IDI = -0.55, p < 0.001) demonstrated a decreased predictive performance for the ICU admission compared to mSOFA. CONCLUSIONS: The mSOFA scoring system had a better predictive performance for the ICU admission than SOFA and FGSI, indicating that mSOFA may be a reliable tool for the prediction of ICU admission in PNF patients.
Molecular and epidemiology characterization of carbapenem-resistant Escherichia coli in Hangzhou, China.
Zeng L, Hu K, Zheng Z … +8 more , Yu H, Liu S, Zheng W, Xu Q, Yan J, Xiang M, Wu J, Li J
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187189 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: With the large-scale use of antibiotics, the detection rate and mortality of carbapenem resistant Escherichia coli (CR-EC) have gradually increased. This study investigated the molecular characteristics and...
INTRODUCTION: With the large-scale use of antibiotics, the detection rate and mortality of carbapenem resistant Escherichia coli (CR-EC) have gradually increased. This study investigated the molecular characteristics and prevalence of CR-EC in order to supplement the isolated data of CR-EC in Hangzhou, China. METHODOLOGY: The minimal inhibitory concentration was determined by microbroth dilution method. The drug resistance genes were detected by polymerase chain reaction. The transferability of plasmid was verified by the conjugation test and genetic homology was detected by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The whole genome was sequenced (WGS) using the Illumina MiSeq technology. RESULTS: A total of 8 non-duplicated CR-EC isolates were collected, and all exhibited a multidrug-resistant phenotype. Two different New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) variants, blaNDM-5 and blaNDM-13, were found with detection rates of 62.5% and 12.5%, respectively. The success rate of conjugation was 100% (6/6). Homology analysis showed that there was no widespread cloning outbreak of CR-EC, and blaNDM-5-ST410 was prevalent in the local area as a dominant group. WGS also indicated the rate of occurrence of resistance genes carrying resistance for more types of antibiotics, as well as exposed potential virulence risks. CONCLUSIONS: This was a survey on the prevalence and molecular characteristics of CR-EC in Hangzhou. blaNDM-like production combined with extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBLs) and/or AmpC was the main resistance mechanism of CR-EC in this area. The dominant blaNDM-5-ST410 requires enhanced attention. The horizontal transformation of plasmids, complex drug resistance, and potential virulence risks also need close attention.
A decade of challenges: ten-year analysis of non-tuberculous Mycobacteria infections in Vojvodina, Serbia.
Kovačević D, Ilić M, Vujičić E … +7 more , Miljković D, Javorac J, Stjepanović M, Savić N, Đekić D, Živanović D, Kovač M
J Infect Dev Ctries · 2025 Oct · PMID 41187188 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a diverse group of environmental microorganisms, most non-pathogenic. Most people come into contact with NTM during their lives. Still, the infection occurs in people...
INTRODUCTION: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are a diverse group of environmental microorganisms, most non-pathogenic. Most people come into contact with NTM during their lives. Still, the infection occurs in people with previous lung comorbidities, weakened immune systems, and the elderly. This study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics of patients with NTM. METHODOLOGY: The research was conducted in the form of a retrospective study, which included 23 patients with a diagnosis of NTM who were treated at the Clinic for Tuberculosis and Interstitial Lung Diseases of the Institute of Pulmonary Diseases of Vojvodina in Sremska Kamenica from 2014 to 2023. RESULTS: Patients were predominantly male (15, 65.2%). The most common type of NTM was Mycobacterium xenopi in 8 patients (34.8%), as well as the way of establishing the diagnosis in patients who had negative direct microscopy and culture confirmation (12, 52.2%), followed by positive direct microscopy and culture confirmation (10, 43.5%). Smokers were the most frequent (10, 55.6%). The most common comorbidity was chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (10, 43.5%). A statistically significant difference was found in the frequency of the method of proof across different types of non-tuberculous mycobacterium infections (Fisher's exact test = 21.928; p = 0.006). Fatal outcomes were seen in 17.6% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: A detailed history, evaluation of clinical features, radiological findings, and microbiological samples are required in patients with suspected NTM infection. Raising suspicion and speeding up diagnostic procedures in these patients is of great importance for the timely initiation of treatment and reduction of mortality.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe