Journal Description
Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease
Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal of tropical medicine and infectious disease published monthly online by MDPI. It is the official journal of the Australasian College of Tropical Medicine (ACTM) and its Joint Faculties of Travel Medicine and Expedition and Wilderness Medicine.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, Informit, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Parasitology) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Immunology and Microbiology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.1 (2022)
Latest Articles
Low Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium vivax Circumsporozoite Surface Protein in Clinical Isolates from Southern Thailand
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050094 (registering DOI) - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
The genetic diversity within the circumsporozoite surface protein (PvCSP) of Plasmodium vivax, the predominant malaria species in Thailand, is primarily observed in the northwestern region along the Thailand–Myanmar border. However, as P. vivax cases shift to southern provinces, particularly Yala Province near
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The genetic diversity within the circumsporozoite surface protein (PvCSP) of Plasmodium vivax, the predominant malaria species in Thailand, is primarily observed in the northwestern region along the Thailand–Myanmar border. However, as P. vivax cases shift to southern provinces, particularly Yala Province near the Thailand–Malaysia border, PvCSP diversity remains understudied. Between 2018 and 2020, 89 P. vivax isolates were collected in Yala Province, a significant malaria hotspot. Employing polymerase chain reaction amplification, restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), and DNA sequencing, the gene encoding PvCSP (Pvcsp) was analyzed. All Yala P. vivax isolates belonged to the VK210 type, distinct from strains in the western region near the Myanmar border. The central repeat region of Pvcsp revealed two common peptide repeat motifs—GDRADGQPA and GDRAAGQPA—across all southern isolates. Sequence analysis identified two subtypes, with S1 more prevalent (92%) than S2 (8%). This study underscores the limited diversity of VK210 variants of P. vivax populations in southern Thailand. These baseline findings facilitate monitoring for potential new parasite variants, aiding in the future control and management of P. vivax in the region.
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Segmentation, Rotation, and Geographic Delivery Approaches for Deployment of Multiple First-Line Treatment (MFT) to Respond to Antimalarial Drug Resistance in Africa: A Qualitative Study in Seven Sub-Sahara Countries
by
Celine Audibert, Adam Aspinall, Andre-Marie Tchouatieu and Pierre Hugo
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050093 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Several studies recently confirmed the emergence of resistance to antimalarial drugs in sub-Saharan Africa. Multiple first-line treatment (MFT) is one of the measures envisaged to respond to the emergence and spread of this resistance. The aim of this study was to identify
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Background: Several studies recently confirmed the emergence of resistance to antimalarial drugs in sub-Saharan Africa. Multiple first-line treatment (MFT) is one of the measures envisaged to respond to the emergence and spread of this resistance. The aim of this study was to identify the perceived advantages and disadvantages of several MFT deployment strategies and to better understand potential implementation drivers and barriers. Methods: A qualitative survey was conducted in seven sub-Saharan countries amongst key opinion leaders, national decision makers, and end users. A total of 200 individual interviews were conducted and findings were analyzed following a thematic inductive approach. Results: From a policy perspective, the new MFT intervention would require endorsement at the global, national, and regional levels to ensure its inclusion in guidelines. Funding of the MFT intervention could be a bottleneck due to costs associated with additional training of healthcare workers, adaptation of drug delivery mechanisms, and higher costs of drugs. Concerning the MFT deployment strategies, a slight preference for the segmentation strategy was expressed over the rotation and geographic approaches, due to the perception that a segmentation approach is already in place at country level. Conclusions: The findings highlighted the need for a collective approach to MFT deployment through the engagement of stakeholders at all levels of malaria management.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Prevention of Malaria in Pregnant Women and Its Effects on Maternal and Child Health, the Case of Centre Hospitalier de Kingasani II in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
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Japhet Kabalu Tshiongo, Trésor Zola Matuvanga, Patrick Mitashi, Vivi Maketa, Henk D. F. H. Schallig, Petra F. Mens, Hypolite Muhindo Mavoko and Junior Matangila Rika
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(5), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9050092 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate scientific evidence of the benefit of the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and Intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) on the birth weight of newborns and the hemoglobin level of the mother when used to prevent malaria during pregnancy. This
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This study aimed to evaluate scientific evidence of the benefit of the use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and Intermittent preventive treatment (IPT) on the birth weight of newborns and the hemoglobin level of the mother when used to prevent malaria during pregnancy. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on 467 hospitalized women in the Maternity Ward of Centre Hospitalier de Kingasani II, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that was pre-tested during a face-to-face interview. Apart from basic statistics, the chi-square test was used to compare proportions. Multivariate analysis (logistic regression) was used to identify variables significantly associated with the 95% confidence interval (CI). The ITN ownership rate was 81% (95% CI: 77–84) and the ITN use rate was 66% (95% CI: 62–70). Sixty-five percent (95% CI: 60–69) reported having received at least three doses of IPT during pregnancy with sulfadoxine-pyramethemine (IPTp-SP). There was a statistically significant difference in hemoglobin levels between hospitalized women who did not use the ITN (9.4 g/dL IIQ: 8.7–9.9) and those who did (11 g/dL IIQ: 9.8–12.2). The non-use of the ITN was associated with low birth weight (aOR = 3.6; 95% CI: 2.1–6.2; p < 0.001) and anemia in pregnant women (cOR = 2.41; 95% CI: 1.16–5.01; p = 0.018). The use of ITN and taking at least three doses of ITP during pregnancy are associated with good birth weight. The number of doses of IPTp received during antenatal care is associated with the maternal hemoglobin level in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Comparative Study of Colorimetric In Situ Hybridization and Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction for Diagnosis of Infection by Leishmania infantum in Dogs in Formalin-Fixed and Paraffin-Embedded Skin
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Ricardo Gonçalves Silva, Matti Kiupel, Ingeborg Maria Langohr, Annabel Wise, Sandro Antonio Pereira, Natália Pedra Gonçalves, Greice Maria Silva da Conceição, Luiz Cláudio Ferreira, Monique Paiva de Campos, Luciana de Freitas Campos Miranda, Fabiano Borges Figueiredo, Raquel de Vasconcellos Carvalhaes de Oliveira, Lucas Keidel and Rodrigo Caldas Menezes
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040091 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
The zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum and dogs are reservoirs for this parasite. For the diagnosis of Leishmania at the species level in dogs in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin (FFPES) samples, colorimetric in situ hybridization (CISH) and quantitative real-time
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The zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum and dogs are reservoirs for this parasite. For the diagnosis of Leishmania at the species level in dogs in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin (FFPES) samples, colorimetric in situ hybridization (CISH) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) are options, but their sensitivities are not well established. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the sensitivity of these two techniques in FFPES for the diagnosis of the L. infantum infection in dogs using culture as the reference standard. The FFPES of 48 dogs with cutaneous infection by L. infantum confirmed by culture and by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis were examined by CISH and qPCR using specific probes for L. infantum. The sensitivities of qPCR, CISH and their combination were, respectively, 77.0%, 58.0% and 83.3%. The sensitivities of qPCR in dogs with and without clinical signs were, respectively, 74.2% and 82.4%. The sensitivities of CISH in dogs with and without clinical signs were, respectively, 61.3% and 52.9%. The CISH and qPCR showed satisfactory sensitivities for the diagnosis of L. infantum in the FFPES of dogs, even in dogs without clinical signs, and their combination increases the sensitivity for this diagnosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Spatiotemporal Analysis of Malaria Transmission in the Autonomous Indigenous Regions of Panama, Central America, 2015–2022
by
Alberto Cumbrera, José Eduardo Calzada, Luis Fernando Chaves and Lisbeth Amarilis Hurtado
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040090 - 22 Apr 2024
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Despite ongoing efforts for elimination, malaria continues to be a major public health problem in the Republic of Panama. For effective elimination, it is key that malaria foci and areas of high transmission are identified in a timely manner. Here, we study malaria
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Despite ongoing efforts for elimination, malaria continues to be a major public health problem in the Republic of Panama. For effective elimination, it is key that malaria foci and areas of high transmission are identified in a timely manner. Here, we study malaria transmission records for the 2015–2022 period, a time when cases have increased by a factor of ten. Using several methods to study spatial and spatiotemporal malaria confirmed case clusters at the level of localities, including LISA and scan, we found that cases are clustered across indigenous villages located within the autonomous indigenous regions of Ngäbe–Buglé, Guna Yala, and Embera, with the latter on the eastern border of Panama (with Colombia). We discuss the different factors that might be shaping the marked increase in malaria transmission associated with these clusters, which include an inflow of malaria-exposed migrating populations hoping to reach the USA, insufficient health services, and the lack of culturally sensitive actionable tools to reduce malaria exposure among the ethnically diverse and impoverished indigenous populations of Panama.
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in HIV-Positive and Diabetic Patients in Sinaloa, Mexico: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
by
Analy Aispuro Pérez, Ulises Osuna-Martínez, Jose Angel Espinoza-Gallardo, Luis Alfredo Dorantes-Álvarez, Gerardo Kenny Inzunza-Leyva, Kimberly Estefania Dorantes-Bernal and Geovanna Nallely Quiñonez-Bastidas
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040089 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are among the main risk factors for the development of TB and increase the risk of drug-resistant TB developing (DR-TB).
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Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are among the main risk factors for the development of TB and increase the risk of drug-resistant TB developing (DR-TB). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of DR-TB in patients with HIV or T2DM in Sinaloa, Mexico. This was an observational and cross-sectional study. The analysis was conducted using the clinical data of patients registered on the National Epidemiological Surveillance System for TB (SINAVE/PUI-TB) platform with a presumed diagnosis of TB during 2019 to 2021 in Sinaloa, Mexico. The prevalence of DR-TB was estimated in HIV and T2DM patients, as well as the odds ratios for their sociodemographic variables, using the Chi-square test. There were 2, 4, and 4 TB-HIV cases and 2, 6, and 9 TB-T2DM cases during 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively, whereas there were 2 and 1 DRTB-HIV and DRTB-T2DM cases, respectively. The results indicated that the WHO guidelines for DR-TB were not properly applied to this high-risk population. Hence, the appropriate application of guidelines for TB and DR-TB detection in these patients needs to be immediately implemented by the State health system.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Burden of Tuberculosis in Different Countries)
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Open AccessCase Report
Plasma Circulating Cell-Free DNA Facilitated the Detection of an Alveolar Echinococcosis Patient Initially Misdiagnosed as Cystic Echinococcosis: A Case Report
by
Yanping Zhao, Yiyang Shi, Shu Shen, Yan Zhang, Gengfu Wei and Xin Jin
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040088 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Echinococcosis, especially alveolar echinococcosis (AE), is becoming an emerging/re-emerging disease with a growing number of cases reported globally. The diagnosis of echinococcosis is based mainly on imaging, which may be challenging when the image presentation is atypical. We reported one patient with suspected
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Echinococcosis, especially alveolar echinococcosis (AE), is becoming an emerging/re-emerging disease with a growing number of cases reported globally. The diagnosis of echinococcosis is based mainly on imaging, which may be challenging when the image presentation is atypical. We reported one patient with suspected cystic echinococcosis (CE) by imaging. The cell-free DNA (cfDNA) obtained from sequencing the patient’s plasma before the operation showed that this patient probably had AE with 45 reads mapped to the Echinococcus multilocularis reference genome (Read-Pairs Per Million = 0.24). The patients underwent surgery, and the pathological result showed that the patient had AE. The conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of her lesion sample extraction also indicated that the infection was caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. The follow-up ultrasound after three months indicated no recurrence. We demonstrated that the differentiation of CE and AE by imaging may not be that easy, with further elaboration on the differentiation between AE and CE in different aspects. We demonstrated that it is possible to use patients’ plasma cfDNA mapped to Echinococcus references before the operation to obtain the objective clue of the lesion to facilitate diagnosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Echinococcosis: From Parasite–Host Interaction to Rapid Detection)
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Open AccessArticle
Global, Regional and National Burden of Human Cystic Echinococcosis from 1990 to 2019: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
by
Tian Tian, Liyuan Miao, Wei Wang and Xiaonong Zhou
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040087 - 17 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a neglected tropical parasitic disease that poses huge disease, social and economic burdens worldwide; however, there has been little knowledge on the global morbidity, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of CE until now. This study aimed to
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Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a neglected tropical parasitic disease that poses huge disease, social and economic burdens worldwide; however, there has been little knowledge on the global morbidity, mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of CE until now. This study aimed to collect the most up-to-date data about the global, regional and national disease burden due to CE from 1990 to 2019 and to project trends in the next 10 years. Methods: We measured the global, regional and national morbidity, mortality and DALYs of CE from 1990 to 2019 based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) data, and we examined the correlation between socioeconomic development levels and the disease burden of CE. In addition, the disease burden due to CE was projected from 2020 to 2030. Results: The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of CE reduced from 2.65/105 [95% UI: (1.87/105 to 3.7/105)] in 1990 to 2.6/105 [95% UI: (1.72/105 to 3.79/105)] in 2019 (EAPC = −0.18%). The number of deaths, DALYs, age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and age-standardized DALY rate due to CE all showed a tendency to decline from 1990 to 2019. A higher disease burden of CE was measured in women than in men in 2019. There was a significant difference in the ASMR of CE by region according to the socio-demographic index (SDI), and lower burdens of CE were estimated in high-SDI regions. The global ASIR of CE is projected to decline from 2020 to 2030; however, the ASMR and age-standardized DALY rate are projected to rise. Conclusions: The global burden of CE remains high, and it is recommended that more health resources are allocated to low-SDI regions, women and the elderly aged 55 to 65 years to reduce the disease burden of CE.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Alveolar Echinococcosis and Cystic Echinococcosis: Advances in the 21st Century)
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on the Management and Prognosis of Infective Endocarditis
by
Lucie Ailhaud, Robinson Gravier-Dumonceau, Florent Arregle, Sandrine Hubert, Jean-Paul Casalta, Alberto Riberi, Laetitia Tessonnier, Roch Giorgi, Gilbert Habib and Frédérique Gouriet
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040086 - 17 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious condition which is difficult to diagnose and to treat, both medically and surgically. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the management of patients with IE. Methods:
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Background: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious condition which is difficult to diagnose and to treat, both medically and surgically. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the management of patients with IE. Methods: We conducted a single-centre retrospective study including patients hospitalized for IE during the pandemic (Group 2) compared with the same period the year before (Group 1). We compared clinical, laboratory, imagery, therapeutic, and patient outcomes between the two groups. Results: A total of 283 patients were managed for possible or definite IE (164 in Group 1 and 119 in Group 2). There were more intravenous drug-related IE patients in Group 2 (p = 0.009). There was no significant difference in surgery including intra-cardiac device extraction (p = 0.412) or time to surgery (p = 0.894). The one-year mortality was similar in both groups (16% versus 17.7%, p = 0.704). The recurrence rate was not significantly different between the two groups (5.9% in Group 2 versus 9.1% in Group 1, p = 0.311). Conclusions: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic did not appear to have had a negative impact on the management of patients with IE. Maintenance of the activities of the endocarditis team within the referral centre probably contributed to this result. Nevertheless, the high proportion of intravenous drug-addicted patients in the pandemic cohort suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had a major psychosocial impact.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Presentation, Management and Treatment of Infective Endocarditis)
Open AccessReview
Sigma-Class Glutathione Transferases (GSTσ): A New Target with Potential for Helminth Control
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Lluvia de Carolina Sánchez Pérez, Rafael A. Zubillaga, Ponciano García-Gutiérrez and Abraham Landa
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040085 - 16 Apr 2024
Abstract
Glutathione transferases (GSTs EC 2.5.1.18) are critical components of phase II metabolism, instrumental in xenobiotics’ metabolism. Their primary function involves conjugating glutathione to both endogenous and exogenous toxic compounds, which increases their solubility and enables their ejection from cells. They also play a
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Glutathione transferases (GSTs EC 2.5.1.18) are critical components of phase II metabolism, instrumental in xenobiotics’ metabolism. Their primary function involves conjugating glutathione to both endogenous and exogenous toxic compounds, which increases their solubility and enables their ejection from cells. They also play a role in the transport of non-substrate compounds and immunomodulation, aiding in parasite establishment within its host. The cytosolic GST subfamily is the most abundant and diverse in helminths, and sigma-class GST (GSTσ) belongs to it. This review focuses on three key functions of GSTσ: serving as a detoxifying agent that provides drug resistance, functioning as an immune system modulator through its involvement in prostaglandins synthesis, and acting as a vaccine antigen.
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(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Characterization of the Tissue and Strain-Specific Microbiota of Anopheles funestus Giles (Diptera: Culicidae)
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Chia-Yu Chen, Wai-Yin Chan, Arshad Ismail and Shüné V. Oliver
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040084 - 13 Apr 2024
Abstract
The mosquito microbiota is a critical determinant of mosquito life history. It is therefore a target for novel vector control strategies like paratransgenesis. However, the microbiota in Anopheles funestus, a major African malaria vector, is poorly characterized. Thus, the study aimed to
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The mosquito microbiota is a critical determinant of mosquito life history. It is therefore a target for novel vector control strategies like paratransgenesis. However, the microbiota in Anopheles funestus, a major African malaria vector, is poorly characterized. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the overall bacterial landscape in the salivary glands, ovaries and midguts of three laboratory strains of An. funestus differing in insecticide-resistant phenotype by sequencing the V3–V4 hypervariable region of bacterial 16S rRNA genes. When examining alpha diversity, the salivary glands harbored significantly more bacteria in terms of species richness and evenness compared to ovaries and midguts. On the strain level, the insecticide-susceptible FANG strain had significantly lower bacterial diversity than the insecticide-resistant FUMOZ and FUMOZ-R strains. When looking at beta diversity, the compositions of microbiota between the three tissues as well as between the strains were statistically different. While there were common bacteria across all three tissues and strains of interest, each tissue and strain did exhibit differentially abundant bacterial genera. However, overall, the top five most abundant genera across all tissues and strains were Elizabethkingia, Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, Cedecea and Yersinia. The presence of shared microbiota suggests a core microbiota that could be exploited for paratransgenesis efforts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Mosquito Microbiome—Leveraging Basic Biology for Control)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Splenic Embolism in Infective Endocarditis: A Systematic Review of the Literature with an Emphasis on Radiological and Histopathological Diagnoses
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Gabriel Santiago Moreira, Nícolas de Albuquerque Pereira Feijóo, Isabella Braga Tinoco-da-Silva, Cyntia Mendes Aguiar, Francijane Oliveira da Conceição, Gustavo Campos Monteiro de Castro, Mariana Giorgi Barroso de Carvalho, Thatyane Veloso de Paula Amaral de Almeida, Rafael Quaresma Garrido and Cristiane da Cruz Lamas
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040083 - 12 Apr 2024
Abstract
Infective endocarditis (IE) is characterised by fever, heart murmurs, and emboli. Splenic emboli are frequent in left-sided IE. A systematic review of the literature published on splenic embolism (SE) between 2000 and 2023 was conducted. Search strategies in electronic databases identified 2751 studies
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Infective endocarditis (IE) is characterised by fever, heart murmurs, and emboli. Splenic emboli are frequent in left-sided IE. A systematic review of the literature published on splenic embolism (SE) between 2000 and 2023 was conducted. Search strategies in electronic databases identified 2751 studies published between 1 January 2000 and 4 October 2023, of which 29 were finally included. The results showed that the imaging tests predominantly used to detect embolisms were computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography (PET)/CT, single-photon emission computed tomography/CT, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. More recent studies typically used 18F-FDG PET-CT. The proportion of SE ranged from 1.4% to 71.7%. Only seven studies performed systematic conventional CT screening for intra-abdominal emboli, and the weighted mean frequency of SE was 22% (range: 8–34.8%). 18F-FDG PET-CT was performed systematically in seven studies, and splenic uptake was found in a weighted mean of 4.5%. There was a lack of uniformity in the published literature regarding the frequency and management of splenic embolisation. CT scans were the most frequently used method, until recently, when 18F-FDG PET-CT scans began to predominate. More data are necessary regarding the frequency of SE, especially focusing on their impact on IE management and prognosis.
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(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
International Migration, Refugees, and Spread of Tuberculosis in Brazil: Analysis of Clusters, Trends, and Associated Factors (2010–2021)
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Yan Mathias Alves, Thaís Zamboni Berra, Reginaldo Bazon Vaz Tavares, Marcela Antunes Paschoal Popolin, Fernanda Bruzadelli Paulino da Costa, Sonia Vivian de Jezus, Letícia Perticarrara Ferezin, Ariela Fehr Tártaro, Maria Del Pilar Serrano-Gallardo, Ione Carvalho Pinto, Ethel Leonor Noia Maciel and Ricardo Alexandre Arcêncio
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040082 - 11 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: International migration is a global phenomenon with significant implications on the health–disease process due to exposures along transit routes and local/destination epidemiological indicators. We aimed to analyze the transmission and spread of tuberculosis among international migrants and refugees from a spatiotemporal perspective
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Background: International migration is a global phenomenon with significant implications on the health–disease process due to exposures along transit routes and local/destination epidemiological indicators. We aimed to analyze the transmission and spread of tuberculosis among international migrants and refugees from a spatiotemporal perspective and the associated factors. Method: This was an ecological study of cases of tuberculosis in international migrants in Brazil, between 2010 and 2021. Annual incidence rates were calculated and spatiotemporal scan techniques were used to identify municipalities at risk. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with tuberculosis in international migrants. Results: A total of 4037 cases of tuberculosis were reported in Brazil in international migrants. Municipalities at risk for this event were identified using the spatiotemporal scan technique, and a cluster was identified with ITT: +52.01% and ETT: +25.60%. A higher probability of TB infection was identified in municipalities with a TB incidence rate >14.40 cases/100 inhabitants, population >11,042 inhabitants, Gini index >0.49, and illiteracy rate >13.12%. A lower probability was found in municipalities with average per capita household income >BRL 456.43. Conclusions: It is recommended that health authorities implement monitoring and rigorous follow-up in affected areas to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment completion for international migrants, preventing disease spread to other communities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatial Dynamics of Infectious Diseases in a Changing World: Navigating Population, Mobility, Climate, and Environmental Change)
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Open AccessArticle
Capturing Recent Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection by Tuberculin Skin Test vs. Interferon-Gamma Release Assay
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Jesús Gutierrez, Mary Nsereko, LaShaunda L. Malone, Harriet Mayanja-Kizza, Hussein Kisingo, W. Henry Boom, Charles M. Bark and Catherine M. Stein
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040081 - 11 Apr 2024
Abstract
Reductions in tuberculosis (TB) incidence require identification of individuals at high risk of developing active disease, such as those with recent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Using a prospective household contact (HHC) study in Kampala, Uganda, we diagnosed new Mtb infection using
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Reductions in tuberculosis (TB) incidence require identification of individuals at high risk of developing active disease, such as those with recent Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Using a prospective household contact (HHC) study in Kampala, Uganda, we diagnosed new Mtb infection using both the tuberculin skin test (TST) and interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). Our study aimed to determine if the TST adds additional value to the characterization of IGRA converters. We identified 13 HHCs who only converted the IGRA (QFT-only converters), 39 HHCs who only converted their TST (TST-only converters), and 24 HHCs who converted both tests (QFT/TST converters). Univariate analysis revealed that TST-only converters were older. Additionally, increased odds of TST-only conversion were associated with older age (p = 0.02) and crowdedness (p = 0.025). QFT/TST converters had higher QFT quantitative values at conversion than QFT-only converters and a bigger change in TST quantitative values at conversion than TST-only converters. Collectively, these data indicate that TST conversion alone likely overestimates Mtb infection. Its correlation to older age suggests an “environmental” boosting response due to prolonged exposure to environmental mycobacteria. This result also suggests that QFT/TST conversion may be associated with a more robust immune response, which should be considered when planning vaccine studies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tuberculosis: Novel Insights and Approaches to Tackle an Ancient Disease)
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Open AccessReview
The Rapid Emergence of Hypervirulent Klebsiella Species and Burkholderia pseudomallei as Major Health Threats in Southeast Asia: The Urgent Need for Recognition as Neglected Tropical Diseases
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Matthew J. W. Kain, Nicola L. Reece, Christopher M. Parry, Giri Shan Rajahram, David L. Paterson and Stephen D. Woolley
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040080 - 08 Apr 2024
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO)’s list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) highlights conditions that are responsible for devastating health, social and economic consequences, and yet, they are overlooked and poorly resourced. The NTD list does not include conditions caused by Gram-negative bacilli (GNB).
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The World Health Organization (WHO)’s list of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) highlights conditions that are responsible for devastating health, social and economic consequences, and yet, they are overlooked and poorly resourced. The NTD list does not include conditions caused by Gram-negative bacilli (GNB). Infections due to GNB cause significant morbidity and mortality and are prevalent worldwide. Southeast Asia is a WHO region of low- and middle-income countries carrying the largest burden of NTDs. Two significant health threats in Southeast Asia are Burkholderia pseudomallei (causing melioidosis) and hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (HvKp). Both diseases have high mortality and increasing prevalence, yet both suffer from a lack of awareness, significant under-resourcing, incomplete epidemiological data, limited diagnostics, and a lack of evidence-based treatment. Emerging evidence shows that both melioidosis and HvKp are spreading globally, including in high-income countries, highlighting the potential future global threat they pose. In this article, we review both conditions, identifying current trends and challenges in Southeast Asia and areas for future research. We also argue that melioidosis and HvKp merit inclusion as NTDs, and that mandatory global surveillance and reporting systems should be established, and we make an urgent call for research to better understand, detect, and treat these neglected diseases.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Solutions in Combating Major Infections in Mid-Income and Low-Income Countries: An Interdisciplinary Perspective)
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Open AccessArticle
Sustained Decline in Hospitalisations for Anogenital Warts in Australia: Analysis of National Hospital Morbidity Data 2003–2020
by
Harunor Rashid, Aditi Dey, Han Wang and Frank Beard
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040079 - 08 Apr 2024
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In Australia, school-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination was introduced initially for girls in 2007, and then also for boys in 2013. While studies have shown declines in the incidence of anogenital warts, there is a paucity of recent data analysis assessing the impact
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In Australia, school-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination was introduced initially for girls in 2007, and then also for boys in 2013. While studies have shown declines in the incidence of anogenital warts, there is a paucity of recent data analysis assessing the impact of vaccination on more severe disease. The National Hospital Morbidity Database of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) hospitalisation admission data that included ICD-10-AM code A63.0 (‘anogenital warts’) as the diagnoses, for the years 2003–2020, were analysed to estimate hospitalisation rates per 100,000 mid-year population. The annual average hospitalisation rates per 100,000 population for anogenital warts in both genders combined in the age groups 10–19 years, 20–29 years, and 30–39 years decreased, respectively, from 16.9, 49.6, and 23.6 in 2003–2007 (pre-vaccine period) to 2.6, 15.2, and 14.6 in 2008–2020 (post-vaccine period), equating to declines of 84.7%, 69.4%, and 38.2%, respectively. Following the introduction of the boy’s vaccination, hospitalisation rates decreased further in the respective age bands from 4.3, 22.8, and 18.4 in 2008–2013 (early post-vaccine period) to 1.1, 9.3, and 11.7 in 2014–2020 (late post-vaccine period), equating to respective declines of 73.4%, 59.3%, and 36.4%. This analysis confirms that there is a substantial incremental decline in anogenital warts hospitalisations among Australians aged 10–39 years.
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Open AccessBrief Report
Serosurvey of Coxiella burnetii in Police Officers and Working Dogs in Brazil: Case Report and One Health Implications
by
Danilo Alves de França, Jéssica Santos da Silva, Nássarah Jabur Lot Rodrigues, Ana Íris de Lima Duré, João Henrique Farinhas, Louise Bach Kmetiuk, Helio Langoni and Alexander Welker Biondo
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040078 - 06 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Although the Coxiella burnetii infection has been investigated in dogs, its role in human transmission remains to be fully established, particularly in close and daily human–dog contact settings, such as in Police K-9 Units. Methods: Accordingly, this study aimed to assess anti-
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Background: Although the Coxiella burnetii infection has been investigated in dogs, its role in human transmission remains to be fully established, particularly in close and daily human–dog contact settings, such as in Police K-9 Units. Methods: Accordingly, this study aimed to assess anti-C. burnetii antibodies in clinically healthy police officers by an in-house indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and working dogs by a commercial IFA Kit, from the State Special Operations Battalion, Paraná, Southern Brazil. Results: Overall, 1/18 (5.5%) police officers and 9/30 (30.0%; CI 95% 16.66–47.88) dogs tested seropositive to anti-C. burnetii IgG antibodies. Conclusions: To date, this is the highest prevalence of Q fever seropositivity among military dogs worldwide. Despite the low sampling rate, a statistically significant association was found between seropositivity and female dogs (p = 0.0492). Further studies with larger sample sizes should be conducted to establish the prevalence of Q Fever in other Brazilian K-9 Units. In summary, this study is the first to conduct a concomitant serosurvey of police officers and working dogs, and its findings should be considered a warning for cross-exposure and transmission of Coxiella burnetii among Police K-9 Units in Brazil and worldwide.
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(This article belongs to the Section One Health)
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Characterization of Antibiotic Resistance in Select Tertiary Hospitals in Uganda: An Evaluation of 2020 to 2023 Routine Surveillance Data
by
Jonathan Mayito, Daniel Kibombo, Charles Olaro, Susan Nabadda, Consolata Guma, Immaculate Nabukenya, Andrew Busuge, Flavia Dhikusooka, Alex Andema, Peter Mukobi, Nathan Onyachi, Ben Watmon, Stephen Obbo, Alfred Yayi, James Elima, Celestine Barigye, Filbert J. Nyeko, Ibrahim Mugerwa, Musa Sekamatte, Joel Bazira, Richard Walwema, Mohammed Lamorde, Francis Kakooza and Henry Kajumbulaadd
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Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040077 - 05 Apr 2024
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health concern in Uganda. We sought to conduct an extended profiling of AMR burden at selected Ugandan tertiary hospitals. We analyzed routine surveillance data collected between October 2020 and March 2023 from 10 tertiary hospitals. The analysis
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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health concern in Uganda. We sought to conduct an extended profiling of AMR burden at selected Ugandan tertiary hospitals. We analyzed routine surveillance data collected between October 2020 and March 2023 from 10 tertiary hospitals. The analysis was stratified according to the hospital unit, age, gender, specimen type, and time. Up to 2754 isolates were recovered, primarily from pus: 1443 (52.4%); urine: 1035 (37.6%); and blood: 245 (8.9%). Most pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus, 1020 (37%), Escherichia coli, 808 (29.3%), and Klebsiella spp., 200 (7.3%). Only 28% of Escherichia coli and 42% of the other Enterobacterales were susceptible to ceftriaxone, while only 44% of Staphylococcus aureus were susceptible to methicillin (56% were MRSA). Enterococcus spp. susceptibility to vancomycin was 72%. The 5–24-year-old had 8% lower ampicillin susceptibility than the >65-year-old, while the 25–44-year-old had 8% lower ciprofloxacin susceptibility than the >65-year-old. The 0–4-year-old had 8% higher ciprofloxacin susceptibility. Only erythromycin susceptibility varied by sex, being higher in males. Escherichia coli ciprofloxacin susceptibility in blood (57%) was higher than in urine (39%) or pus (28%), as was ceftriaxone susceptibility in blood (44%) versus urine (34%) or pus (14%). Klebsiella spp. susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and meropenem decreased by 55% and 47%, respectively, during the evaluation period. During the same period, Escherichia coli ciprofloxacin susceptibility decreased by 40%, while Staphylococcus aureus gentamicin susceptibility decreased by 37%. Resistance was high across the Access and Watch antibiotic categories, varying with time, age, sex, specimen type, and hospital unit. Effective antimicrobial stewardship targeted at the critical AMR drivers is urgently needed.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Prevention and Control: A One Health Approach)
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Spatio-Temporal Analysis and Clinical-Epidemiological Characterization of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Maranhão, Brazil, from 2009 to 2020
by
Carolina Azevedo Amaral, Taciana Mirely Maciel Higino, Karen Fernanda Castro Silva, Nathalia Rodrigues dos Reis, Mariana Gomes Pereira, Rita de Cássia Mendonça de Miranda and Amanda Silva dos Santos Aliança
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040076 - 05 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study was carried out to identify the spatial distribution and characterize the clinical–epidemiological profile of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Maranhão state, Brazil, from 2009 to 2020. This descriptive ecological study collected sociodemographic and clinical data of VL cases from the Brazilian Notifiable
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This study was carried out to identify the spatial distribution and characterize the clinical–epidemiological profile of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Maranhão state, Brazil, from 2009 to 2020. This descriptive ecological study collected sociodemographic and clinical data of VL cases from the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System database. A spatial autocorrelation analysis (Moran statistics) was performed. From 2009 to 2020, 5699 cases of VL were reported, with incidence of 6.5 cases/100,000 and prevalence of 7.1 cases/100,000. The temporal analysis showed a significant growth in incidence from 2009 to 2018, followed by a significant decrease between 2019 and 2020. The Moran map shows hotspots of high values in the central–west and central–east regions, and hotspots of low values in the northern region of Maranhão. The profile of patients affected by VL comprises males (OR = 1.8; IC95% = 1.72–1.92), aged under 14 years, brown, and with incomplete elementary schooling. The main symptoms reported were fever, fatigue, and edema. The main diagnostic method was laboratory. The mortality rate was 6.8%, and co-infection with HIV was reported by 8.5% of patients. The results of this study indicated the increase in incidence and lethality, as well as the expansion, of leishmaniasis in the state of Maranhão.
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(This article belongs to the Section Neglected and Emerging Tropical Diseases)
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Tuberculosis Case Finding in Kulon Progo District, Yogyakarta, Indonesia: Passive versus Active Case Finding Using Mobile Chest X-ray
by
John Silwanus Kaku, Riris Andono Ahmad, Stephanie Main, Dwi Oktofiana, Bintari Dwihardiani, Rina Triasih, Philipp du Cros and Geoffrey Chan
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2024, 9(4), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed9040075 - 04 Apr 2024
Abstract
Active-case finding (ACF) using chest X-ray is an essential method of finding and diagnosing Tuberculosis (TB) cases that may be missed in Indonesia’s routine TB case finding. This study compares active and passive TB case-finding strategies. A retrospective study of TB case notification
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Active-case finding (ACF) using chest X-ray is an essential method of finding and diagnosing Tuberculosis (TB) cases that may be missed in Indonesia’s routine TB case finding. This study compares active and passive TB case-finding strategies. A retrospective study of TB case notification was conducted. Data between 1 January and 31 December 2021, was used. The population in this study were TB cases notified from Kulon Progo District health facilities, including those found through routine activities or active-case findings. A total of 249 TB cases were diagnosed in Kulon Progo in 2021, and 102 (41%) were bacteriologically confirmed. The TB patients’ ages ranged from 0 to 85 years (median 52, IQR 31–61). The majority of cases were male (59%, 147/249) and mostly among people aged 15–59 (61.4%, 153/249). The proportion of clinical TB diagnoses among cases found from active-case findings was 74.7% (68/91) while the proportion among passive-case findings was 50% (79/158). Active-case finding contributed 91 (36.5%) TB cases to the total cases detected in Kulon Progo in 2021. The use of chest X-rays in active-case findings likely contributed to the detection of a higher proportion of clinical TB than in passive-case findings.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implementing TB Elimination Approaches in Indonesia: Operational Research on Case Finding, Treatment and Prevention of TB in Yogyakarta and Timika)
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