scholarly journals Antenatal and early postnatal etiological verification of relevant congenital viral infectious diseases

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
VV Vasilyev ◽  
AA Grineva ◽  
NV Rogozina ◽  
RA Ivanova ◽  
GM Ushakova
Keyword(s):  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Clinical Laboratory ◽  
Molecular Genetic ◽  
Genetic Material ◽  
Postnatal Period ◽  
International Consensus ◽  
Birth Canal ◽  
Etiologic Agents ◽  
Simplex Infection

Nonspecificity of clinical, laboratory and instrumental manifestations of congenital infectious diseases, including viral infections, and the diversity of methods for etiological verification of pathogens define both the need to choose the optimal approaches to the diagnosis of this pathology, and the feasibility of testing for a broad range of etiologic agents in case of suspected congenital viral infection. The analysis of current guidelines, international consensus documents issued by specialists, and published results of some studies has shown that identification of the genetic material of the pathogen with the use of amniocentesis/ cordocentesis (for cytomegalovirus and parvovirus infections) or in the birth canal (for herpes simplex infection) is the key method for antenatal etiological verification of the widespread viral infections. During the postnatal period, molecular genetic testing is combined with serological diagnosis involving determining specific immunoglobulins M and G, as well as their avidity index.

Treatment of ebola and other infectious diseases: melatonin “goes viral”

2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 43-57 ◽  
Author(s):  
Russel J Reiter ◽  
Qiang Ma ◽  
Ramaswamy Sharma
Keyword(s):  
Mortality Rate ◽  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Hemorrhagic Shock ◽  
Safety Profile ◽  
Ebola Virus ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Virus Disease ◽  
Attractive Potential ◽  
Potential Treatment

This review summarizes published reports on the utility of melatonin as a treatment for virus-mediated diseases. Of special note are the data related to the role of melatonin in influencing Ebola virus disease. This infection and deadly condition has no effective treatment and the published works documenting the ability of melatonin to attenuate the severity of viral infections generally and Ebola infection specifically are considered. The capacity of melatonin to prevent one of the major complications of an Ebola infection, i.e., the hemorrhagic shock syndrome, which often contributes to the high mortality rate, is noteworthy. Considering the high safety profile of melatonin, the fact that it is easily produced, inexpensive and can be self-administered makes it an attractive potential treatment for Ebola virus pathology.  

A bigger brain for a more complex environment

2020 ◽  
Vol 31 (8) ◽  
pp. 803-816
Author(s):  
Umberto di Porzio
Keyword(s):  
Human Brain ◽  
Cognitive Abilities ◽  
Molecular Genetic ◽  
Adult Size ◽  
Genetic Changes ◽  
Cultural Challenges ◽  
Birth Canal ◽  
Newborn Brain ◽  
Neuronal Interactions ◽  
The Brain

AbstractThe environment increased complexity required more neural functions to develop in the hominin brains, and the hominins adapted to the complexity by developing a bigger brain with a greater interconnection between its parts. Thus, complex environments drove the growth of the brain. In about two million years during hominin evolution, the brain increased three folds in size, one of the largest and most complex amongst mammals, relative to body size. The size increase has led to anatomical reorganization and complex neuronal interactions in a relatively small skull. At birth, the human brain is only about 20% of its adult size. That facilitates the passage through the birth canal. Therefore, the human brain, especially cortex, develops postnatally in a rich stimulating environment with continuous brain wiring and rewiring and insertion of billions of new neurons. One of the consequence is that in the newborn brain, neuroplasticity is always turned “on” and it remains active throughout life, which gave humans the ability to adapt to complex and often hostile environments, integrate external experiences, solve problems, elaborate abstract ideas and innovative technologies, store a lot of information. Besides, hominins acquired unique abilities as music, language, and intense social cooperation. Overwhelming ecological, social, and cultural challenges have made the human brain so unique. From these events, as well as the molecular genetic changes that took place in those million years, under the pressure of natural selection, derive the distinctive cognitive abilities that have led us to complex social organizations and made our species successful.

scholarly journals 1410. Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: Is It the Only Pathogen?

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S712-S713
Author(s):  
Alvaro Dendi ◽  
Ingrith Viviana Hoyos Garcia ◽  
Asuncion Mejias ◽  
Cory T Hanlon ◽  
Pablo J Sanchez
Keyword(s):  
Medical Records ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Clinical Laboratory ◽  
Central Nervous System Infection ◽  
Panel Member ◽  
Outcome Data ◽  
Viridans Streptococci ◽  
Review Panel ◽  
Co Detection ◽  
Neonatal Herpes Simplex

Abstract Background Neonatal HSV infection is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Therefore, prompt identification and treatment of infected neonates is paramount. At Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH), Columbus, OH all neonates admitted in the first 2 weeks (up to 2010) and 4 weeks (since 2010) of age are evaluated for HSV infection in addition to routine bacterial and other viral infections. The frequency of co-infection with HSV and other potential pathogens is not fully known. Methods Retrospective review of the medical records of infants admitted to NCH with a diagnosis of neonatal HSV infection from 2001 to 2019. Patients less than 6 weeks of age were identified by review of the NCH Virology and Molecular Laboratory results for all positive HSV PCRs obtained from any body site as well as by discharge ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes for HSV infection. Medical records were reviewed for demographic, clinical, laboratory, outcome data, and maternal history of genital HSV lesions at or before delivery. Occurrence of positive bacterial and/or viral co-detection were identified. The data were managed using REDCap electronic data capture tools hosted at NCH. Results There were 93 infants with neonatal HSV infection (mean age, 9.5 days [IQR, 7-15]; 42%, HSV1; 53%, HSV-2). 32 infants had central nervous system infection (CNS) while 31 had Skin-Eye-Mouth (SEM) infection and 30 had Disseminated Disease. Mortality was 15% (n=14). Only 3 mothers had active genital HSV lesions at delivery. Of the 93 infants, 5 (5%) had bacterial (n=2) or viral (n=3) co-infections. All of the infants only had mucosal sites positive for HSV 1 (n=4) or 2 (n=1). Of the 2 infants with bacterial infection, 1 had bacteremia due to viridans streptococci while the other one had necrotizing enterocolitis and a positive blood culture for Clostridium butyricum. The 3 infants with viral co-detection also were full term and all had positive enterovovirus PCR tests (1, blood, throat; 1, blood and ceerebrospinal fluid (CSF); 1, CSF) Conclusion 5% of infants with neonatal HSV infection had bacterial or enteroviral co-infection. These findings have important implications in the management of neonates evaluated for possible sepsis. Disclosures Asuncion Mejias, MD, PhD, MsCS, Janssen (Grant/Research Support, Advisor or Review Panel member)Merck (Advisor or Review Panel member)Roche (Advisor or Review Panel member)

scholarly journals Is the oral microbiome a source to enhance mucosal immunity against infectious diseases?

npj Vaccines ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Camille Zenobia ◽  
Karla-Luise Herpoldt ◽  
Marcelo Freire
Keyword(s):  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Oral Mucosa ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Emerging Infectious Diseases ◽  
Humoral Response ◽  
Outer Membrane Vesicles ◽  
Oral Microbiome ◽  
Microbial Pathogens ◽  
Cell Mediated Immunity ◽  
Th17 Response

AbstractMucosal tissues act as a barrier throughout the oral, nasopharyngeal, lung, and intestinal systems, offering first-line protection against potential pathogens. Conventionally, vaccines are applied parenterally to induce serotype-dependent humoral response but fail to drive adequate mucosal immune protection for viral infections such as influenza, HIV, and coronaviruses. Oral mucosa, however, provides a vast immune repertoire against specific microbial pathogens and yet is shaped by an ever-present microbiome community that has co-evolved with the host over thousands of years. Adjuvants targeting mucosal T-cells abundant in oral tissues can promote soluble-IgA (sIgA)-specific protection to confer increased vaccine efficacy. Th17 cells, for example, are at the center of cell-mediated immunity and evidence demonstrates that protection against heterologous pathogen serotypes is achieved with components from the oral microbiome. At the point of entry where pathogens are first encountered, typically the oral or nasal cavity, the mucosal surfaces are layered with bacterial cohabitants that continually shape the host immune profile. Constituents of the oral microbiome including their lipids, outer membrane vesicles, and specific proteins, have been found to modulate the Th17 response in the oral mucosa, playing important roles in vaccine and adjuvant designs. Currently, there are no approved adjuvants for the induction of Th17 protection, and it is critical that this research is included in the preparedness for the current and future pandemics. Here, we discuss the potential of oral commensals, and molecules derived thereof, to induce Th17 activity and provide safer and more predictable options in adjuvant engineering to prevent emerging infectious diseases.

scholarly journals The antinuclear antibody HEp-2 indirect immunofluorescence assay: a survey of laboratory performance, pattern recognition and interpretation

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne E. Tebo ◽  
Robert L. Schmidt ◽  
Kamran Kadkhoda ◽  
Lisa K. Peterson ◽  
Edward K. L. Chan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Indirect Immunofluorescence ◽  
Clinical Laboratory ◽  
Immunofluorescence Assay ◽  
Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay ◽  
Medical Laboratory ◽  
Nuclear Staining ◽  
International Consensus ◽  
In Vitro Diagnostic ◽  
Traditional Pattern

Abstract Background To evaluate the interpretation and reporting of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using HEp-2 substrates based on common practice and guidance by the International Consensus on ANA patterns (ICAP). Method Participants included two groups [16 clinical laboratories (CL) and 8 in vitro diagnostic manufacturers (IVD)] recruited via an email sent to the Association of Medical Laboratory Immunologists (AMLI) membership. Twelve (n = 12) pre-qualified specimens were distributed to participants for testing, interpretation and reporting HEp-2 IFA. Results obtained were analyzed for accuracy with the intended and consensus response for three main categorical patterns (nuclear, cytoplasmic and mitotic), common patterns and ICAP report nomenclatures. The distributions of antibody titers of specimens were also compared. Results Laboratories differed in the categorical patterns reported; 8 reporting all patterns, 3 reporting only nuclear patterns and 5 reporting nuclear patterns with various combinations of other patterns. For all participants, accuracy with the intended response for the categorical nuclear pattern was excellent at 99% [95% confidence interval (CI): 97–100%] compared to 78% [95% CI 67–88%] for the cytoplasmic, and 93% [95% CI 86%–100%] for mitotic patterns. The accuracy was 13% greater for the common nomenclature [87%, 95% CI 82–90%] compared to the ICAP nomenclature [74%, 95% CI 68–79%] for all participants. Participants reporting all three main categories demonstrated better performances compared to those reporting 2 or less categorical patterns. The average accuracies varied between participant groups, however, with the lowest and most variable performances for cytoplasmic pattern specimens. The reported titers for all specimens varied, with the least variability for nuclear patterns and most titer variability associated with cytoplasmic patterns. Conclusions Our study demonstrated significant accuracy for all participants in identifying the categorical nuclear staining as well as traditional pattern assignments for nuclear patterns. However, there was less consistency in reporting cytoplasmic and mitotic patterns, with implications for assigning competencies and training for clinical laboratory personnel.

scholarly journals Assessment of antinuclear antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay: report from a survey by the American Association of Medical Laboratory Immunologists

2020 ◽  
Vol 58 (9) ◽  
pp. 1489-1497 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lisa K. Peterson ◽  
Anne E. Tebo ◽  
Mark H. Wener ◽  
Susan S. Copple ◽  
Marvin J. Fritzler
Keyword(s):  
Indirect Immunofluorescence ◽  
Antinuclear Antibodies ◽  
Current Practice ◽  
Clinical Laboratory ◽  
Immunofluorescence Assay ◽  
Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay ◽  
Medical Laboratory ◽  
International Consensus ◽  
Clinical Laboratories ◽  
Reading Interpretation

AbstractBackgroundThe indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using HEp-2 cell substrates is the preferred method by some for detecting antinuclear antibodies (ANA) as it demonstrates a number of characteristic staining patterns that reflect the cellular components bound as well as semi-quantitative results. Lack of harmonized nomenclature for HEp-2 IFA patterns, subjectivity in interpretation and variability in the number of patterns reported by different laboratories pose significant harmonization challenges. The main objectives of this study were to assess current practice in laboratory assessment of HEp-2 IFA, identify gaps and define strategies to improve reading, interpretation and reporting.MethodsWe developed and administered a 24-item survey based on four domains: educational and professional background of participants, current practice of HEp-2 IFA testing and training, gap assessment and the perceived value of International Consensus on Antinuclear Antibody Patterns (ICAP) and other factors in HEp-2 IFA assessment. The Association of Medical Laboratory Immunologists (AMLI) and American Society for Clinical Pathology administered the survey from April 1 to June 30, 2018, to members involved in ANA testing. This report summarizes the survey results and discussion from a dry workshop held during the 2019 AMLI annual meeting.ResultsOne hundred and seventy-nine (n = 179) responses were obtained where a significant number were clinical laboratory scientists (46%), laboratory directors (24%), supervisors (13%) or others (17%). A majority of respondents agreed on the need to standardize nomenclature and reporting of HEp-2 IFA results. About 55% were aware of the ICAP initiative; however, among those aware, a significant majority thought its guidance on HEp-2 IFA nomenclature and reporting is of value to clinical laboratories. To improve ICAP awareness and further enhance HEp-2 IFA assessment, increased collaboration between ICAP and the clinical laboratory community was suggested with emphasis on education and availability of reference materials.ConclusionsBased on these suggestions, future efforts to optimize HEp-2 IFA reading, interpretation and reporting would benefit from more hands-on training of laboratory personnel as well as continuous collaboration between professional organizations, in vitro diagnostic manufacturers and clinical laboratories.

Role of cannabinoids in various diseases: A review

2021 ◽  
Vol 23 ◽  
Author(s):  
Simran Kaur ◽  
Nikita Sharma ◽  
Arpita Roy
Keyword(s):  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Metabolic Disorders ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Cannabis Sativa ◽  
Endocannabinoid System ◽  
Psychological Disorders ◽  
Bioactive Compound ◽  
The Body ◽  
Therapeutic Aspect

Background: The plant, Cannabis sativa is heavily explored and researched with many industrial and pharmaceutical applications. The medicinal and therapeutic role of cannabis Sativa has been summarized in the paper, citing its mechanism of action and influence on the human body. Diseases like metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and psychological disorders pose negative and long-term drastic effects on the body like neurodegeneration and other chronic system failures. Several existing literature has proved its effectiveness against such diseases. Objectives: This review aims to provide an overview of the role of cannabinoids in various diseases like metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, and psychological disorders. Method: Various e-resources like Pubmed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were thoroughly searched and read to form a well-informed and information-heavy manuscript. Here we tried to summaries the therapeutic aspect of Cannabis sativa and its bioactive compound cannabinoids in various diseases. Result: This review highlights the various constituents which are present in Cannabis sativa, the Endocannabinoid system, and the role of cannabinoids in various diseases Conclusion: Recent research on Cannabis has suggested its role in neurodegenerative diseases, inflammation, sleep disorders, pediatric diseases, and their analgesic nature. Therefore, the authors majorly focus on the therapeutic aspect of Cannabis sativa in various diseases. The focus is also on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and its role in fighting or preventing bacterial, parasitic, fungal, and viral infections.

Consensus ‘Interferon therapy for patients with influenza, SARS and COVID19’

2021 ◽  
pp. 51-58
Author(s):  
N. D. Yushchuk ◽  
I. V. Maev ◽  
A. L. Vertkin
Keyword(s):  
General Practitioner ◽  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Secondary Prevention ◽  
Interferon Therapy ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Total Duration ◽  
Community Acquired Pneumonia ◽  
Outpatient Clinics ◽  
Primary Contact ◽  
Respiratory Viral Infections

According to the who, the share of acute respiratory viral infections (амма? and influenza) accounts for about 90–95% of all infectious diseases; in russia, influenza and arvi take up to 40% of the total duration of official disability, which determines the significance of this pathology. At the same time, the primary contact of the overwhelming majority of patients with suspected arvi and influenza occurs with a therapist or general practitioner of polyclinics. The proposed consensus of experts is intended to systematize the known approaches to the diagnosis, treatment and secondary prevention of influenza, acute respiratory viral infections and community-acquired pneumonia for their use at outpatient clinics. The schemes of using interferon therapy for arvi and influenza are considered in detail.

The role of PCSK9 in infectious diseases.

2021 ◽  
Vol 28 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura Magnasco ◽  
Chiara Sepulcri ◽  
Roberta Maria Antonello ◽  
Stefano Di Bella ◽  
Laura Labate ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Infectious Diseases ◽  
Malaria Infection ◽  
Bacterial Infections ◽  
Viral Infections ◽  
Physiological Role ◽  
Protective Role ◽  
Loss Of Function ◽  
Pcsk9 Inhibition ◽  
Sepsis And Septic Shock

Background: In recent years, many aspects of the physiological role of PCSK9 have been elucidated, particularly regarding its role in lipid metabolism, cardiovascular risk, and its role in innate immunity. Increasing evidence is available about the involvement of PCSK9 in the pathogenesis of viral infections, mainly HCV, and the regulation of host response to bacterial infections, primarily sepsis and septic shock. Moreover, the action of PCSK9 has been investigated as a crucial step in the pathogenesis of malaria infection and disease severity. Objective: This paper aims to review the available published literature on the role of PCSK9 in a wide array of infectious diseases. Conclusion: Besides the ongoing investigation on PCSK9 inhibition among HIV-infected patients to treat HIV- and ART-related hyperlipidemia, preclinical studies indicate how PCSK9 is involved in reducing the replication of HCV. Interestingly, high plasmatic PCSK9 levels have been described in patients with sepsis. Moreover, a protective role of PCSK9 inhibition has also been proposed against dengue and SARS-CoV-2 viral infections. Finally, a loss of function in the PCSK9-encoding gene has been reported to reduce malaria infection mortality.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document