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Samadi A, Amiri M, Hailat N. The Reasons Behind Long-Term Endemicity of Brucellosis in Low and Middle-Income Countries: Challenges and Future Perspectives. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:82. [PMID: 38289422 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03605-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Brucellosis is a neglected worldwide zoonotic disease with more than 500,000 new human cases each year. Direct contact with infected animals and consumption of undercooked animal origin foods are the main routes of brucellosis transmission to humans. Although long endeavor has been applied to control and eliminate brucellosis from animal and human populations in developing countries especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the disease is still endemic in these regions. Many common or unique factors including raw milk consumption, unhygienic slaughter of livestock, extensive husbandry, budgetary limitations, misdiagnosis, and other conditions play a role in long-term endemicity of brucellosis in these locations. It has been shown that One Health is the only practical approach to control brucellosis; however, applying such methods is challenging in low-resource areas. In such conditions, brucellosis is continuously maintained in animals and repeatedly spread to human populations. In this article, factors playing a critical role in brucellosis endemicity, and the real conditions challenging the application of One Health approach in control of brucellosis are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assadullah Samadi
- Paraclinic Department, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Kabul University, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | | | - Nabil Hailat
- Veterinary Pathology, Pathology and Public Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology [JUST], Irbid, Jordan
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2
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Peraile I, Gil-García M, González-López L, Dabbagh-Escalante NA, Cabria-Ramos JC, Lorenzo-Lozano P. Study of the reusability and stability of nylon nanofibres as an antibody immobilisation surface. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 15:83-94. [PMID: 38264063 PMCID: PMC10804540 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.15.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
In the case of a biological threat, early, rapid, and specific detection is critical. In addition, ease of handling, use in the field, and low-cost production are important considerations. Immunological devices are able to respond to these needs. In the design of these immunological devices, surface antibody immobilisation is crucial. Nylon nanofibres have been described as a very good option because they allow for an increase in the surface-to-volume ratio, leading to an increase in immunocapture efficiency. In this paper, we want to deepen the study of other key points, such as the reuse and stability of these nanofibres, in order to assess their profitability. On the one hand, the reusability of nanofibres has been studied using different stripping treatments at different pH values on the nylon nanofibres with well-oriented antibodies anchored by protein A/G. Our study shows that stripping with glycine buffer pH 2.5 allows the nanofibres to be reused as long as protein A/G has been previously anchored, leaving both nanofibre and protein A/G unchanged. On the other hand, we investigated the stability of the nylon nanofibres. To achieve this, we analysed any loss of immunocapture ability of well-oriented antibodies anchored both to the nylon nanofibres and to a specialised surface with high protein binding capacity. The nanofibre immunocapture system maintained an unchanged immunocapture ability for a longer time than the specialised planar surface. In conclusion, nylon nanofibres seem to be a very good choice as an antibody immobilisation surface, offering not only higher immunocapture efficiency, but also more cost efficiency as they are reusable and stable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Peraile
- Biological Defence Area, Department of NBC Defence Systems and Energetic Materials, National Institute for Aerospace Technology “Esteban Terradas” (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Ctra. M-301, Km 10, 28330, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
| | - Matilde Gil-García
- Biological Defence Area, Department of NBC Defence Systems and Energetic Materials, National Institute for Aerospace Technology “Esteban Terradas” (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Ctra. M-301, Km 10, 28330, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura González-López
- Biological Defence Area, Department of NBC Defence Systems and Energetic Materials, National Institute for Aerospace Technology “Esteban Terradas” (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Ctra. M-301, Km 10, 28330, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nushin A Dabbagh-Escalante
- Biological Defence Area, Department of NBC Defence Systems and Energetic Materials, National Institute for Aerospace Technology “Esteban Terradas” (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Ctra. M-301, Km 10, 28330, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan C Cabria-Ramos
- Biological Defence Area, Department of NBC Defence Systems and Energetic Materials, National Institute for Aerospace Technology “Esteban Terradas” (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Ctra. M-301, Km 10, 28330, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Lorenzo-Lozano
- Biological Defence Area, Department of NBC Defence Systems and Energetic Materials, National Institute for Aerospace Technology “Esteban Terradas” (INTA)-Campus La Marañosa, Ctra. M-301, Km 10, 28330, San Martín de la Vega, Madrid, Spain
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3
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Mlynek KD, Cline CR, Biryukov SS, Toothman RG, Bachert BA, Klimko CP, Shoe JL, Hunter M, Hedrick ZM, Dankmeyer JL, Mou S, Fetterer DP, Qiu J, Lee ED, Cote CK, Jia Q, Horwitz MA, Bozue JA. The rLVS Δ capB/ iglABC vaccine provides potent protection in Fischer rats against inhalational tularemia caused by various virulent Francisella tularensis strains. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2277083. [PMID: 37975637 PMCID: PMC10760400 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2277083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is one of the several biothreat agents for which a licensed vaccine is needed. To ensure vaccine protection is achieved across a range of virulent F. tularensis strains, we assembled and characterized a panel of F. tularensis isolates to be utilized as challenge strains. A promising tularemia vaccine candidate is rLVS ΔcapB/iglABC (rLVS), in which the vector is the LVS strain with a deletion in the capB gene and which additionally expresses a fusion protein comprising immunodominant epitopes of proteins IglA, IglB, and IglC. Fischer rats were immunized subcutaneously 1-3 times at 3-week intervals with rLVS at various doses. The rats were exposed to a high dose of aerosolized Type A strain Schu S4 (FRAN244), a Type B strain (FRAN255), or a tick derived Type A strain (FRAN254) and monitored for survival. All rLVS vaccination regimens including a single dose of 107 CFU rLVS provided 100% protection against both Type A strains. Against the Type B strain, two doses of 107 CFU rLVS provided 100% protection, and a single dose of 107 CFU provided 87.5% protection. In contrast, all unvaccinated rats succumbed to aerosol challenge with all of the F. tularensis strains. A robust Th1-biased antibody response was induced in all vaccinated rats against all F. tularensis strains. These results demonstrate that rLVS ΔcapB/iglABC provides potent protection against inhalational challenge with either Type A or Type B F. tularensis strains and should be considered for further analysis as a future tularemia vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D. Mlynek
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Curtis R. Cline
- Pathology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Sergei S. Biryukov
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ronald G. Toothman
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Beth A. Bachert
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Christopher P. Klimko
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Shoe
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Melissa Hunter
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Zander M. Hedrick
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Dankmeyer
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Sherry Mou
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - David P. Fetterer
- Regulated Research Administration Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ju Qiu
- Regulated Research Administration Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Eric D. Lee
- Pathology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Christopher K. Cote
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Qingmei Jia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marcus A. Horwitz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joel A. Bozue
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
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Sabra DM, Krin A, Romeral AB, Frieß JL, Jeremias G. Anthrax revisited: how assessing the unpredictable can improve biosecurity. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1215773. [PMID: 37795173 PMCID: PMC10546327 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1215773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
B. anthracis is one of the most often weaponized pathogens. States had it in their bioweapons programs and criminals and terrorists have used or attempted to use it. This study is motivated by the narrative that emerging and developing technologies today contribute to the amplification of danger through greater easiness, accessibility and affordability of steps in the making of an anthrax weapon. As states would have way better preconditions if they would decide for an offensive bioweapons program, we focus on bioterrorism. This paper analyzes and assesses the possible bioterrorism threat arising from advances in synthetic biology, genome editing, information availability, and other emerging, and converging sciences and enabling technologies. Methodologically we apply foresight methods to encourage the analysis of contemporary technological advances. We have developed a conceptual six-step foresight science framework approach. It represents a synthesis of various foresight methodologies including literature review, elements of horizon scanning, trend impact analysis, red team exercise, and free flow open-ended discussions. Our results show a significant shift in the threat landscape. Increasing affordability, widespread distribution, efficiency, as well as ease of use of DNA synthesis, and rapid advances in genome-editing and synthetic genomic technologies lead to an ever-growing number and types of actors who could potentially weaponize B. anthracis. Understanding the current and future capabilities of these technologies and their potential for misuse critically shapes the current and future threat landscape and underlines the necessary adaptation of biosecurity measures in the spheres of multi-level political decision making and in the science community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunja Manal Sabra
- Carl Friedrich von Weizsäcker-Centre for Science and Peace Research (ZNF), University of Hamburg, Bogenallee, Hamburg, Germany
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Rapid Capsular Antigen Immunoassay for Diagnosis of Inhalational Anthrax: Preclinical Studies and Evaluation in a Nonhuman Primate Model. mBio 2022; 13:e0093122. [PMID: 35546539 PMCID: PMC9239138 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00931-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhalational anthrax is a fatal infectious disease. Rapid and effective treatment is critically dependent on early and accurate diagnosis. Blood culture followed by identification and confirmation may take days to provide clinically relevant information. In contrast, immunoassay for a shed antigen, the capsular polypeptide gamma-d-polyglutamate (γDPGA), can provide rapid results at the point of care. In this study, a lateral flow immunoassay for γDPGA was evaluated in a robust nonhuman primate model of inhalational anthrax. The results showed that the time to a positive result with the rapid test using either serum or blood as a clinical specimen was similar to the time after infection when a blood culture became positive. In vitro testing showed that the test was equally sensitive with cultures of the three major clades of Bacillus anthracis. Cultures from other Bacillus spp. that are known to produce γDPGA also produced positive results. The test was negative with human sera from 200 normal subjects and 45 subjects with culture-confirmed nonanthrax bacterial or fungal sepsis. Taken together, the results showed that immunoassay for γDPGA is an effective surrogate for blood culture in a relevant cynomolgus monkey model of inhalational anthrax. The test would be a valuable aid in early diagnosis of anthrax, which is critical for rapid intervention and a positive outcome. Use of the test could facilitate triage of patients with signs and symptoms of anthrax in a mass-exposure incident and in low-resource settings where laboratory resources are not readily available.
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6
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Koch L, Lopes AA, Maiguy A, Guillier S, Guillier L, Tournier JN, Biot F. Natural outbreaks and bioterrorism: How to deal with the two sides of the same coin? J Glob Health 2021; 10:020317. [PMID: 33110519 PMCID: PMC7535343 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.10.020317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Koch
- Bacteriology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute (IRBA), Bretigny sur Orge, France
| | - Anne-Aurelie Lopes
- Pediatric Emergency Department, AP-HP, Robert Debre Hospital, Paris, Sorbonne University, France
| | | | - Sophie Guillier
- Bacteriology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute (IRBA), Bretigny sur Orge, France
| | - Laurent Guillier
- Risk Assessment Department, University of Paris-Est, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Jean-Nicolas Tournier
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute (IRBA), Bretigny sur Orge, France
| | - Fabrice Biot
- Bacteriology Unit, French Armed Forces Biomedical Research Institute (IRBA), Bretigny sur Orge, France
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7
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Matz LM, Petrosino JF. A study of innate immune kinetics reveals a role for a chloride transporter in a virulent Francisella tularensis type B strain. Microbiologyopen 2021; 10:e1170. [PMID: 33970545 PMCID: PMC8483402 DOI: 10.1002/mbo3.1170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Tularemia is a zoonotic disease of global proportions. Francisella tularensis subspecies tularensis (type A) and holarctica (type B) cause disease in healthy humans, with type A infections resulting in higher mortality. Repeated passage of a type B strain in the mid-20th century generated the Live Vaccine Strain (LVS). LVS remains unlicensed, does not protect against high inhalational doses of type A, and its exact mechanisms of attenuation are poorly understood. Recent data suggest that live attenuated vaccines derived from type B may cross-protect against type A. However, there is a dearth of knowledge regarding virulent type B pathogenesis and its capacity to stimulate the host's innate immune response. We therefore sought to increase our understanding of virulent type B in vitro characteristics using strain OR96-0246 as a model. Adding to our knowledge of innate immune kinetics in macrophages following infection with virulent type B, we observed robust replication of strain OR96-0246 in murine and human macrophages, reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes from "wild type" type B-infected macrophages compared to LVS, and delayed macrophage cell death suggesting that virulent type B may suppress macrophage activation. One disruption in LVS is in the gene encoding the chloride transporter ClcA. We investigated the role of ClcA in macrophage infection and observed a replication delay in a clcA mutant. Here, we propose its role in acid tolerance. A greater understanding of LVS attenuation may reveal new mechanisms of pathogenesis and inform strategies toward the development of an improved vaccine against tularemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Matz
- The Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome ResearchBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
- The Department of Molecular Virology and MicrobiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
- Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
| | - Joseph F. Petrosino
- The Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome ResearchBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
- The Department of Molecular Virology and MicrobiologyBaylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
- Baylor College of MedicineHoustonTXUSA
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Abstract
Efforts to produce vaccines against SARS and MERS were prematurely halted since their scope was perceived to be geographically restricted and they were subsequently categorized as neglected diseases. However, when a similar virus spread globally triggering the COVID-19 pandemic, we were harshly reminded that several other neglected diseases might also be waiting for the perfect opportunity to become mainstream. As climate change drives urbanization, natural selection of pathogens and their intermediate vectors and reservoirs, the risk of neglected diseases emerging within a larger susceptible pool becomes an even greater threat. Availability of a vaccine for COVID-19 is widely considered the only way to end this pandemic. Similarly, vaccines are also seen as the best tools available to control the spread of neglected (sometimes referred to as emerging or re-emerging) diseases, until the water, hygiene and sanitation infrastructure is improved in areas of their prevalence. Vaccine production is usually cost and labour intensive and thus minimal funding is directed towards controlling and eliminating neglected diseases (NDs). A customised but sustainable approach is needed to develop and deploy vaccines against NDs. While safety, efficacy and public trust are the three main success pillars for most vaccines, affordability is vital when formulating vaccines for neglected diseases.
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Zucca P, Rossmann MC, Osorio JE, Karem K, De Benedictis P, Haißl J, De Franceschi P, Calligaris E, Kohlweiß M, Meddi G, Gabrutsch W, Mairitsch H, Greco O, Furlani R, Maggio M, Tolomei M, Bremini A, Fischinger I, Zambotto P, Wagner P, Millard Y, Palei M, Zamaro G. The "Bio-Crime Model" of Cross-Border Cooperation Among Veterinary Public Health, Justice, Law Enforcements, and Customs to Tackle the Illegal Animal Trade/Bio-Terrorism and to Prevent the Spread of Zoonotic Diseases Among Human Population. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:593683. [PMID: 33240962 PMCID: PMC7670834 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.593683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Illegal animal trade (pet, wildlife, animal products, etc.) is an example of transnational organized crime (T.O.C.) that generates a large business with huge profit margins. This criminal activity causes several negative effects on human health (zoonoses), animal health and welfare, market protection, consumer fraud and may be used as tool of agro/bio-terrorism. Illegal animal trade can facilitate the spread of zoonoses that are defined as diseases and infections that are transmitted by vertebrate animals to man. Humans are affected by more than 1,700 known pathogens: 60% of existing human infectious diseases are zoonotic and at least 75% of emerging infectious diseases of humans have an animal origin and 72% of zoonoses originate from wildlife or exotic animals. The Bio-Crime Project was developed in 2017 by Friuli Venezia Giulia Region (Italy) and Land Carinthia (Austria) together with other public institutions to combat illegal animal trade and to reduce the risk of disease transmission from animals to humans. Project partners agreed that a multi-agency approach was required to tackle the illegal animal trade that was high value, easy to undertake and transnational crime. The Bio-crime model of cross-border cooperation introduces the novel approach of replicating the cooperative framework given by the triad of Veterinary Public Health, Justice and Law Enforcements/Customs across borders using the International Police and Custom Cooperation Centres (IPCCCs) as a connection link among public entities of the neighbor countries. This model has been recognized as a best practice at European level because it can be easily replicated and scaled up without any supplementary cost for Member States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Zucca
- Central Directorate for Health, Social Policies, and Disabilities, Trieste, Italy.,Bio-crime Veterinary Medical Intelligence Centre - c/o International Police and Custom Cooperation Centre, Thörl-Maglern, Austria
| | - Marie-Christin Rossmann
- Agriculture, Forestry, Rural areas Veterinary Department, Land Carinthia, Klagenfurt, Austria.,Bio-crime Veterinary Medical Intelligence Centre - c/o International Police and Custom Cooperation Centre, Thörl-Maglern, Austria
| | - Jorge E Osorio
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Science, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Kevin Karem
- Centre for Global Health Leadership, Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Paola De Benedictis
- OIE Collaborating Centre and National Reference Centre for Infectious Diseases at the Animal-Human Interface, FAO and National Reference for Rabies, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Josef Haißl
- Public Prosecutor Office, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | | | | | | | - Giulio Meddi
- SCIP International Service of Police Cooperation, International Police and Custom Cooperation Centre, Thörl-Maglern, Austria
| | | | | | - Oronzo Greco
- Italian Financial Police, Regional Command Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Trieste, Italy
| | - Roberto Furlani
- Italian Financial Police, Regional Command Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marcello Maggio
- Italian Army, Regional Command Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Bremini
- Central Directorate for Health, Social Policies, and Disabilities, Trieste, Italy.,Bio-crime Veterinary Medical Intelligence Centre - c/o International Police and Custom Cooperation Centre, Thörl-Maglern, Austria
| | - Ingrid Fischinger
- Bio-crime Veterinary Medical Intelligence Centre - c/o International Police and Custom Cooperation Centre, Thörl-Maglern, Austria.,Agriculture, Forestry, Rural areas Veterinary Department, Land Carinthia, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Paolo Zambotto
- Veterinary Services, Autonomous Province of South Tyrol, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Peter Wagner
- Health and Care Management Department, Veterinary Services, Land Styria, Graz, Austria
| | - Yvonne Millard
- Veterinary Services, Land Burgenland, Eisenstadt, Austria
| | - Manlio Palei
- Central Directorate for Health, Social Policies, and Disabilities, Trieste, Italy
| | - Gianna Zamaro
- Central Directorate for Health, Social Policies, and Disabilities, Trieste, Italy
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10
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Deng Y, Liu X, Duan K, Peng Q. Research Progress on Brucellosis. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:5598-5608. [PMID: 29745323 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180510125009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Brucellosis is a debilitating febrile illness caused by an intracellular Brucella. The disease is distributed in humans and animals widely, especially in developing countries. Ten species are included in the genus Brucella nowadays; four species of them are pathogenic to humans, which make brucellosis a zoonosis with more than 500,000 new cases reported annually. For human brucellosis, the most pathogenic species is B. melitensis followed by B. suis, while B. abortus is the mildest type of brucellosis. The infection mechanism of Brucella is complicated and mostly relies on its virulence factors. The therapy of the disease contains vaccination and antibiotic. However, there are some defects in currently available vaccines such as the lower protective level and safety. Thus, safe and efficient vaccines for brucellosis are still awaited. The dual therapy of antibacterial is effective in the treatment of brucellosis if a rapid and exact detection method is found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Deng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xinyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Kaifang Duan
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Qisheng Peng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
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Abstract
ABSTRACTIntroductionThis paper assesses the total medical costs associated with the US anthrax letter attacks of 2001. This information can be used to inform policies, which may help mitigate the potential economic impacts of similar bioterrorist attacks. METHODS Journal publications and news reports were reviewed to establish the number of people who were exposed, were potentially exposed, received prophylactics, and became ill. Where available, cost data from the anthrax letter attacks were used. Where data were unavailable, high, low, and best cost estimates were developed from the broader literature to create a cost model and establish economic impacts. RESULTS Medical spending totaled approximately $177 million. CONCLUSIONS The largest expenditures stemmed from self-initiated prophylaxis (worried well): people who sought prophylactic treatment without any indication that they had been exposed to anthrax letters. This highlights an area of focus for mitigating the economic impacts of future disasters. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2019;13:539-546).
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12
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Dunbar J, Pillai S, Wunschel D, Dickens M, Morse SA, Franz D, Bartko A, Challacombe J, Persons T, Hughes MA, Blanke SR, Holland R, Hutchison J, Merkley ED, Campbell K, Branda CS, Sharma S, Lindler L, Anderson K, Hodge D. Perspective on Improving Environmental Monitoring of Biothreats. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2018; 6:147. [PMID: 30406093 PMCID: PMC6207620 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2018.00147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
For more than a decade, the United States has performed environmental monitoring by collecting and analyzing air samples for a handful of biological threat agents (BTAs) in order to detect a possible biological attack. This effort has faced numerous technical challenges including timeliness, sampling efficiency, sensitivity, specificity, and robustness. The cost of city-wide environmental monitoring using conventional technology has also been a challenge. A large group of scientists with expertise in bioterrorism defense met to assess the objectives and current efficacy of environmental monitoring and to identify operational and technological changes that could enhance its efficacy and cost-effectiveness, thus enhancing its value. The highest priority operational change that was identified was to abandon the current concept of city-wide environmental monitoring because the operational costs were too high and its value was compromised by low detection sensitivity and other environmental factors. Instead, it was suggested that the focus should primarily be on indoor monitoring and secondarily on special-event monitoring because objectives are tractable and these operational settings are aligned with likelihood and risk assessments. The highest priority technological change identified was the development of a reagent-less, real-time sensor that can identify a potential airborne release and trigger secondary tests of greater sensitivity and specificity for occasional samples of interest. This technological change could be transformative with the potential to greatly reduce operational costs and thereby create the opportunity to expand the scope and effectiveness of environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Dunbar
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, United States
| | - Segaran Pillai
- Food and Drug Administration, Washington, DC, United States
| | - David Wunschel
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | | | - Stephen A. Morse
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
- IHRC, Inc., Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Andrew Bartko
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, OH, United States
| | | | - Timothy Persons
- Government Accountability Office, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Molly A. Hughes
- Government Accountability Office, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | | | - Janine Hutchison
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | - Eric D. Merkley
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, United States
| | | | | | - Shashi Sharma
- Food and Drug Administration, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Luther Lindler
- Department of Homeland Security, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kevin Anderson
- Department of Homeland Security, Washington, DC, United States
| | - David Hodge
- Department of Homeland Security, Washington, DC, United States
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13
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Global Research on Syndromic Surveillance from 1993 to 2017: Bibliometric Analysis and Visualization. SUSTAINABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/su10103414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Syndromic Surveillance aims at analyzing medical data to detect clusters of illness or forecast disease outbreaks. Although the research in this field is flourishing in terms of publications, an insight of the global research output has been overlooked. This paper aims at analyzing the global scientific output of the research from 1993 to 2017. To this end, the paper uses bibliometric analysis and visualization to achieve its goal. Particularly, a data processing framework was proposed based on citation datasets collected from Scopus and Clarivate Analytics’ Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). The bibliometric method and Citespace were used to analyze the institutions, countries, and research areas as well as the current hotspots and trends. The preprocessed dataset includes 14,680 citation records. The analysis uncovered USA, England, Canada, France and Australia as the top five most productive countries publishing about Syndromic Surveillance. On the other hand, at the Pinnacle of academic institutions are the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The reference co-citation analysis uncovered the common research venues and further analysis of the keyword cooccurrence revealed the most trending topics. The findings of this research will help in enriching the field with a comprehensive view of the status and future trends of the research on Syndromic Surveillance.
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Dunbar J, Gallegos-Graves LV, Gans J, Morse SA, Pillai S, Anderson K, Hodge DR. Evaluation of DNA extraction methods to detect bacterial targets in aerosol samples. J Microbiol Methods 2018; 153:48-53. [PMID: 30201412 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
DNA-based monitoring of pathogens in aerosol samples requires extraction methods that provide high recovery of DNA. To identify a suitable method, we evaluated six DNA extraction methods for recovery of target-specific DNA from samples with four bacterial agents at low abundance (<10,000 genome copies per detection assay). These methods differed in rigor of cell disruption, approach for DNA capture, and extent of DNA purification. The six methods varied 1000-fold in the recovery of DNA from spores or cells of surrogates of Bacillus anthracis, Yersinia pestis, Burkholderia pseudomallei, and Francisella tularensis, each at about 105 CFU per sample. A custom method using paramagnetic Dynabeads for DNA capture greatly outperformed the other five methods. The cDynabead method provided about 80% recovery of target-specific DNA. The cDynabead method and a filtration method were further evaluated for DNA recovery from bacterial agents spiked on filters (c.a. 105 CFU of each agent per filter quadrant) that were subsequently used to collect background outdoor air particulates for 24-h. The filtration method generally failed to recover detectable quantities of target DNA from the spiked filters, suggesting at least a 100-fold loss of target DNA during extraction, whereas the custom cDynabead method consistently yielded DNA sufficient for target detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Dunbar
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, United States.
| | | | - Jason Gans
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, United States
| | | | - Segaran Pillai
- Food and Drug Administration, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Kevin Anderson
- Department of Homeland Security, Washington, DC, United States
| | - David R Hodge
- Department of Homeland Security, Washington, DC, United States
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Olsen SC, Boggiatto P, White DM, McNunn T. Biosafety Concerns Related toBrucellaand Its Potential Use as a Bioweapon. APPLIED BIOSAFETY 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/1535676018771983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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16
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Pisarenko SV, Kovalev DA, Volynkina AS, Ponomarenko DG, Rusanova DV, Zharinova NV, Khachaturova AA, Tokareva LE, Khvoynova IG, Kulichenko AN. Global evolution and phylogeography of Brucella melitensis strains. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:353. [PMID: 29747573 PMCID: PMC5946514 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-4762-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brucellosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease. Annually in the world more than 500,000 new cases of brucellosis in humans are registered. In this study, we propose an evolutionary model of the historical distribution of B. melitensis based on the full-genomic SNP analysis of 98 strains. Results We performed an analysis of the SNP of the complete genomes of 98 B. melitensis strains isolated in different geographical regions of the world to obtain relevant information on the population structure, genetic diversity and the evolution history of the species. Using genomic sequences of 21 strains of B. melitensis isolated in Russia and WGS data from the NCBI database, it was possible to identify five main genotypes and 13 species genotypes for analysis. Data analysis based on the Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography method allowed to determine the regions of geographical origin and the expected pathways of distribution of the main lines (genotypes and subgenotypes) of the pathogen. Conclusions Within the framework of our study, the model of global evolution and phylogeography of B. melitensis strains isolated in various regions of the planet was proposed for the first time. The sets of unique specific SNPs described in our study, for all identified genotypes and subgenotypes, can be used to develop new bacterial typing and identification systems for B. melitensis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-4762-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey V Pisarenko
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia.
| | - Dmitry A Kovalev
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
| | - Anna S Volynkina
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
| | - Dmitry G Ponomarenko
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
| | - Diana V Rusanova
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
| | - Nina V Zharinova
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
| | - Anna A Khachaturova
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
| | | | - Irina G Khvoynova
- Irkutsk Research Anti-Plague Institute, Irkutsk, Russian Federation, 664047
| | - Alexander N Kulichenko
- Stavropol Research Anti-Plague Institute, 13-15 Sovetskaya Street, 355035, Stavropol, Russia
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Skelton AG, Meltzer MI. 20 Years of Public Health Economics and Decision Sciences at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: The CDC Steven M. Teutsch Prevention Effectiveness Fellowship, 1995-2015. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2018; 23:e14-e21. [PMID: 27798531 PMCID: PMC7028312 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000000437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The CDC Steven M. Teutsch Prevention Effectiveness Fellowship was started in 1995 to provide postdoctoral training in public health economics. This article describes the origins and state of the fellowship and the practice of prevention effectiveness research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The fellowship can be seen as one successful example of a demand-driven public health innovation to develop crucial capacity for the contemporary health system. Nearly 150 individuals have been trained through the program since its inception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam G Skelton
- Population Health Workforce Branch, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology and Laboratory Services (Dr Skelton), and Health Economics and Modeling Unit, Division of Preparedness and Emerging Infections, National Center for Zoonotic and Emerging Infectious Diseases, (Dr Meltzer), US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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18
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Benzoxazoles, Phthalazinones, and Arylurea-Based Compounds with IMP Dehydrogenase-Independent Antibacterial Activity against Francisella tularensis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017; 61:AAC.00939-17. [PMID: 28739786 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00939-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia and a potential biowarfare agent. The virulence of F. tularensis is decreased by deletion of guaB, the gene encoding IMP dehydrogenase (IMPDH), suggesting that this enzyme is a target for antibacterial design. Here we report that F. tularensis growth is blocked by inhibitors of bacterial IMPDHs. Seventeen compounds from two different frameworks, designated the D and Q series, display antibacterial activities with MICs of <1 μM. These compounds are also active against intracellular infections. Surprisingly, antibacterial activity does not correlate with IMPDH inhibition. In addition, the presence of guanine does not affect the antibacterial activity of most compounds, nor does the deletion of guaB These observations suggest that antibacterial activity derives from inhibition of another target(s). Moreover, D compounds display antibacterial activity only against F. tularensis, suggesting the presence of a unique target or uptake mechanism. A ΔguaB mutant resistant to compound D73 contained a missense mutation (Gly45Cys) in nuoB, which encodes a subunit of bacterial complex I. Overexpression of the nuoB mutant conferred resistance to D73 in both wild-type and ΔguaB strains. This strain was not resistant to Q compounds, suggesting that a different off-target mechanism operates for these compounds. Several Q compounds are also effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, in which a second target has also been implicated, in addition to IMPDH. The fortuitous presence of multiple targets with overlapping structure-activity relationships presents an intriguing opportunity for the development of robust antibiotics that may avoid the emergence of resistance.
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Henrykowska G, Lipiński M, Dziedziaczak-Buczyńska M, Zawadzka M. The Assessment of Knowledge of Organisational - Administrative Procedures in the Case of a Bioterrorist Threat in Selected Environmental Populations. POLISH HYPERBARIC RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/phr-2016-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In the past we have seen numerous cases of the purposeful utilisation of micro-organisms and toxins. This situation forced us to undertake actions aimed at a limitation of the production and storage of biological weapons. Unfortunately, despite the signing of the Convention on Biological and Chemical Weapons, many countries are still involved in research into the use of biological agents as a military resource.
The objective of the work was to perform an assessment of the knowledge of threats connected with bioterrorism as well as of the procedures in the case of a bioterrorist attack in two different urban populations - i.e. of below 50 thousand and above 500 thousand inhabitants.
The study was conducted in two towns, Nysa and Łódź. A self-designed questionnaire included 100 persons from each town, both men and women aged between 18 and 65 years. Despite the small differences between the researched populations, the knowledge of respondents concerning bioterrorist threats and procedures during an attack is insufficient.
On the basis of the obtained results we may conclude that there is a need to educate the entire society, irrespective of the place of residence, in order to raise an awareness with regard to the potential threat and procedures in the event of a bioterrorist attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Henrykowska
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Medical University of Łódź, Poland
| | - Marcin Lipiński
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Medical University of Łódź, Poland
| | | | - Magdalena Zawadzka
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Medical University of Łódź, Poland
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Abstract
We analyzed the mass influenza vaccination clinic process at the United States Naval Academy to identify gaps and implement changes for improvement. The Lean Six Sigma methodology was employed. Total number of staff members working the clinic and total hours worked were measured at baseline in August 2013 and after implementation in August 2014 to determine improvement. The clinic was moved from a hallway to an auditorium, and a linear patient flow was established. Staff members wore vests for easy identification, and the supply box was reorganized. Training was standardized and given to all staff members before working in the clinic. These changes decreased the number of staff members required to work in the clinic from 62 to 40 (-35.5%) and decreased the total number of hours worked from 558 to 360 (-35.5%). The changes successfully improved the mass vaccination clinic by decreasing staffing and hours required. These changes can be adopted in other settings to increase community capacity and readiness.
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22
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Jia Q, Bowen R, Lee BY, Dillon BJ, Masleša-Galić S, Horwitz MA. Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain deficient in capB and overexpressing the fusion protein of IglA, IglB, and IglC from the bfr promoter induces improved protection against F. tularensis respiratory challenge. Vaccine 2016; 34:4969-4978. [PMID: 27577555 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
A safer and more effective vaccine than the unlicensed Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain (LVS) is needed to protect against the biowarfare agent F. tularensis. Previously, we developed an LVS ΔcapB mutant that is significantly safer than LVS and provides potent protective immunity against F. tularensis respiratory challenge when administered intranasally but limited protection when administered intradermally unless as part of a prime-boost vaccination strategy. To improve the immunogenicity and efficacy of LVS ΔcapB, we developed recombinant LVS ΔcapB (rLVS ΔcapB) strains overexpressing various F. tularensis Francisella Pathogenicity Island (FPI) proteins - IglA, IglB and IglC, and a fusion protein (IglABC) comprising immunodominant epitopes of IglA, IglB, and IglC downstream of different Francisella promoters, including the bacterioferritin (bfr) promoter. We show that rLVS ΔcapB/bfr-iglA, iglB, iglC, and iglABC express more IglA, IglB, IglC or IglABC than parental LVS ΔcapB in broth and in human macrophages, and stably express FPI proteins in macrophages and mice absent antibiotic selection. In response to IglC and heat-inactivated LVS, spleen cells from mice immunized intradermally with rLVS ΔcapB/bfr-iglC or bfr-iglABC secrete greater amounts of interferon-gamma and/or interleukin-17 than those from mice immunized with LVS ΔcapB, comparable to those from LVS-immunized mice. Mice immunized with rLVS ΔcapB/bfr-iglA, iglB, iglC or iglABC produce serum antibodies at levels similar to LVS-immunized mice. Mice immunized intradermally with rLVS ΔcapB/bfr-iglABC and challenged intranasally with virulent F. tularensis Schu S4 survive longer than sham- and LVS ΔcapB-immunized mice. Mice immunized intranasally with rLVS ΔcapB/bfr-iglABC - but not with LVS - just before or after respiratory challenge with F. tularensis Schu S4 are partially protected; protection is correlated with induction of a strong innate immune response. Thus, rLVS ΔcapB/bfr-iglABC shows improved immunogenicity and protective efficacy compared with parental LVS ΔcapB and, in contrast to LVS, has partial efficacy as immediate pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingmei Jia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, 37-121 Center for Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688, United States.
| | - Richard Bowen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, United States.
| | - Bai-Yu Lee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, 37-121 Center for Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688, United States.
| | - Barbara Jane Dillon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, 37-121 Center for Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688, United States.
| | - Saša Masleša-Galić
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, 37-121 Center for Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688, United States.
| | - Marcus A Horwitz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, 37-121 Center for Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California - Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1688, United States.
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23
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Ojo KK, Ranade RM, Zhang Z, Dranow DM, Myers JB, Choi R, Nakazawa Hewitt S, Edwards TE, Davies DR, Lorimer D, Boyle SM, Barrett LK, Buckner FS, Fan E, Van Voorhis WC. Brucella melitensis Methionyl-tRNA-Synthetase (MetRS), a Potential Drug Target for Brucellosis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0160350. [PMID: 27500735 PMCID: PMC4976878 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0160350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated Brucella melitensis methionyl-tRNA-synthetase (BmMetRS) with molecular, structural and phenotypic methods to learn if BmMetRS is a promising target for brucellosis drug development. Recombinant BmMetRS was expressed, purified from wild type Brucella melitensis biovar Abortus 2308 strain ATCC/CRP #DD-156 and screened by a thermal melt assay against a focused library of one hundred previously classified methionyl-tRNA-synthetase inhibitors of the blood stage form of Trypanosoma brucei. Three compounds showed appreciable shift of denaturation temperature and were selected for further studies on inhibition of the recombinant enzyme activity and cell viability against wild type B. melitensis strain 16M. BmMetRS protein complexed with these three inhibitors resolved into three-dimensional crystal structures and was analyzed. All three selected methionyl-tRNA-synthetase compounds inhibit recombinant BmMetRS enzymatic functions in an aminoacylation assay at varying concentrations. Furthermore, growth inhibition of B. melitensis strain 16M by the compounds was shown. Inhibitor-BmMetRS crystal structure models were used to illustrate the molecular basis of the enzyme inhibition. Our current data suggests that BmMetRS is a promising target for brucellosis drug development. However, further studies are needed to optimize lead compound potency, efficacy and safety as well as determine the pharmacokinetics, optimal dosage, and duration for effective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayode K. Ojo
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ranae M. Ranade
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Zhongsheng Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - David M. Dranow
- Beryllium, Bainbridge Island, Washington, United States of America
| | - Janette B. Myers
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ryan Choi
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Steve Nakazawa Hewitt
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | | | | | - Donald Lorimer
- Beryllium, Bainbridge Island, Washington, United States of America
| | - Stephen M. Boyle
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Lynn K. Barrett
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Frederick S. Buckner
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Erkang Fan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Wesley C. Van Voorhis
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Bower WA, Hendricks K, Pillai S, Guarnizo J, Meaney-Delman D. Clinical Framework and Medical Countermeasure Use During an Anthrax Mass-Casualty Incident. MMWR Recomm Rep 2015; 64:1-22. [DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr6404a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 337] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - William A. Bower
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
| | - Katherine Hendricks
- Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
| | - Satish Pillai
- Division of Preparedness and Emerging Infections, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
| | - Julie Guarnizo
- Division of Preparedness and Emerging Infections, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
| | - Dana Meaney-Delman
- Office of the Director, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases
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25
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Sommers CH, Sheen S. Inactivation of avirulent Yersinia pestis on food and food contact surfaces by ultraviolet light and freezing. Food Microbiol 2015; 50:1-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2015.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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26
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Atkins LM, Holder ME, Ajami NJ, Metcalf GA, Weissenberger GM, Wang M, Vee V, Han Y, Muzny DM, Gibbs RA, Petrosino JF. High-Quality Draft Genome Sequence of Francisella tularensis subsp. holarctica Strain OR96-0246. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2015; 3:e00898-15. [PMID: 26272574 PMCID: PMC4536685 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.00898-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The bacterial pathogen Francisella tularensis was recently renewed as a tier-one select agent. F. tularensis subsp. tularensis (type A) and holarctica (type B) are of clinical relevance. Here, we report the complete genome of a virulent F. tularensis type B strain and describe its usefulness in comparative genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Atkins
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - M E Holder
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - N J Ajami
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - G A Metcalf
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - G M Weissenberger
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - M Wang
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - V Vee
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Y Han
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - D M Muzny
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - R A Gibbs
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - J F Petrosino
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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You S, Wan MP. A Risk Assessment Scheme of Infection Transmission Indoors Incorporating the Impact of Resuspension. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2015; 35:1488-1502. [PMID: 25808677 DOI: 10.1111/risa.12350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A new risk assessment scheme was developed to quantify the impact of resuspension to infection transmission indoors. Airborne and surface pathogenic particle concentration models including the effect of two major resuspension scenarios (airflow-induced particle resuspension [AIPR] and walking-induced particle resuspension [WIPR]) were derived based on two-compartment mass balance models and validated against experimental data found in the literature. The inhalation exposure to pathogenic particles was estimated using the derived airborne concentration model, and subsequently incorporated into a dose-response model to assess the infection risk. Using the proposed risk assessment scheme, the influences of resuspension towards indoor infection transmission were examined by two hypothetical case studies. In the case of AIPR, the infection risk increased from 0 to 0.54 during 0-0.5 hours and from 0.54 to 0.57 during 0.5-4 hours. In the case of WIPR, the infection risk increased from 0 to 0.87 during 0-0.5 hours and from 0.87 to 1 during 0.5-4 hours. Sensitivity analysis was conducted based on the design-of-experiments method and showed that the factors that are related to the inspiratory rate of viable pathogens and pathogen virulence have the most significant effect on the infection probability under the occurrence of AIPR and WIPR. The risk assessment scheme could serve as an effective tool for the risk assessment of infection transmission indoors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siming You
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Man Pun Wan
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Nanyang, Singapore
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28
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Tan KK, Tan YC, Chang LY, Lee KW, Nore SS, Yee WY, Mat Isa MN, Jafar FL, Hoh CC, AbuBakar S. Full genome SNP-based phylogenetic analysis reveals the origin and global spread of Brucella melitensis. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:93. [PMID: 25888205 PMCID: PMC4409723 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-1294-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brucellosis is an important zoonotic disease that affects both humans and animals. We sequenced the full genome and characterised the genetic diversity of two Brucella melitensis isolates from Malaysia and the Philippines. In addition, we performed a comparative whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis of B. melitensis strains collected from around the world, to investigate the potential origin and the history of the global spread of B. melitensis. Results Single sequencing runs of each genome resulted in draft genome sequences of MY1483/09 and Phil1136/12, which covered 99.85% and 99.92% of the complete genome sequences, respectively. The B. melitensis genome sequences, and two B. abortus strains used as the outgroup strains, yielded a total of 13,728 SNP sites. Phylogenetic analysis using whole-genome SNPs and geographical distribution of the isolates revealed spatial clustering of the B. melitensis isolates into five genotypes, I, II, III, IV and V. The Mediterranean strains, identified as genotype I, occupied the basal node of the phylogenetic tree, suggesting that B. melitensis may have originated from the Mediterranean regions. All of the Asian B. melitensis strains clustered into genotype II with the SEA strains, including the two isolates sequenced in this study, forming a distinct clade denoted here as genotype IId. Genotypes III, IV and V of B. melitensis demonstrated a restricted geographical distribution, with genotype III representing the African lineage, genotype IV representing the European lineage and genotype V representing the American lineage. Conclusion We showed that SNPs retrieved from the B. melitensis draft full genomes were sufficient to resolve the interspecies relationships between B. melitensis strains and to discriminate between the vaccine and endemic strains. Phylogeographic reconstruction of the history of B. melitensis global spread at a finer scale by using whole-genome SNP analyses supported the origin of all B. melitensis strains from the Mediterranean region. The possible global distribution of B. melitensis following the ancient trade routes was also consistent with whole-genome SNP phylogeny. The whole genome SNP phylogenetics analysis, hence is a powerful tool for intraspecies discrimination of closely related species. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-1294-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim-Kee Tan
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. .,Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Yung-Chie Tan
- Codon Genomics S/B, No 26, Jalan Dutamas 7, Taman Dutamas, Balakong, 43200, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Li-Yen Chang
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. .,Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Kok Wei Lee
- Codon Genomics S/B, No 26, Jalan Dutamas 7, Taman Dutamas, Balakong, 43200, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Siti Sarah Nore
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Wai-Yan Yee
- Codon Genomics S/B, No 26, Jalan Dutamas 7, Taman Dutamas, Balakong, 43200, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Noor Mat Isa
- Malaysia Genome Institute, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Jalan Bangi, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Faizatul Lela Jafar
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Chee-Choong Hoh
- Codon Genomics S/B, No 26, Jalan Dutamas 7, Taman Dutamas, Balakong, 43200, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. .,Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Detecting disease outbreaks using a combined Bayesian network and particle filter approach. J Theor Biol 2015; 370:171-83. [PMID: 25637764 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2015.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Evaluating whether a disease outbreak has occurred based on limited information in medical records is inherently a probabilistic problem. This paper presents a methodology for consistently analysing the probability that a disease targeted by a surveillance system has appeared in the population, based on the medical records of the individuals within the target population, using a Bayesian network. To enable the system to produce a probability density function of the fraction of the population that is infected, a mathematically consistent conjoining of Bayesian networks and particle filters is used. This approach is tested against the default algorithm of ESSENCE Desktop Edition (which adaptively uses Poisson, exponentially weighted moving average and linear regression techniques as needed), and is shown, for the simulated test data used, to give significantly shorter detection times at false alarm rates of practical interest. This methodology shows promise to greatly improve detection times for outbreaks in populations where timely electronic health records are available for data-mining.
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Rebmann T, Loux TM, Zink TK, Swick Z, Wakefield M. US disaster planners' attitudes regarding preevent vaccine for first responders and point-of-dispensing workers. Health Secur 2015; 13:29-36. [PMID: 25812426 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2014.0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disaster planners' attitudes toward pre-event anthrax and smallpox vaccine for first responders and point-of-dispensing (POD) workers have not been examined. An online questionnaire was sent to US Cities Readiness Initiative (CRI) and non-CRI public health disaster planners in 2013. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess determinants of belief that first responders and POD workers should be offered the anthrax and/or smallpox vaccine before an event. A total of 301 disaster planners participated. Only half (50.6%, n=126) were aware of the ACIP recommendation that first responders could be offered pre-event anthrax vaccine. Many (66.0%, n=164) believed that pre-event anthrax vaccine should be offered to first responders. The oldest respondents were least likely to believe anthrax vaccine should be given (OR: 0.27, 0.12, 0.63, p<.001). Fewer disaster planners believed that pre-event anthrax vaccine should be offered to POD workers compared to first responders (55.0% vs 66.0%, X(2)=151, p<.001). Almost 20% (18.3%, n=47) reported having already received pre-event smallpox vaccine. Among the unvaccinated (n=210), half (52.0%, n=105) were willing to receive pre-event smallpox vaccine if it was offered free of charge. Half (53.4%, n=133) believed that POD workers should be offered smallpox vaccine before an event. Many disaster planners support pre-event anthrax vaccination for first responders and POD workers, and about half support pre-event smallpox vaccine for POD workers. Jurisdictions should consider partnering with first responder agencies to implement a pre-event anthrax vaccination program.
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Cavallini S, Bisogni F, Mastroianni M. Economic impact profiling of CBRN events: focusing on biological incidents. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2014; 62:437-44. [PMID: 25048832 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-014-0306-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) incidents, both caused accidentally by human error or natural/technological events and determined intentionally as criminal/malicious/terroristic acts, have consequences that could be differently characterized. In the last years many efforts to analyze the economic impact of terrorist threat have been carried out, while researches specifically concerning CBRN events have not been extensively undertaken. This paper in particular aims at proposing a methodological approach for studying macro-level economic impact profiles of biological incidents caused by weaponized and non-weaponized materials. The suggested approach investigates the economic consequences of biological incidents according to two main dimensions: type of large-scale effect and persistence of effect. Biological incident economic impacts are analyzed taking into account the persistence of effect during time as short-term impact (i.e. immediately after the incident), medium-term impact (i.e. by a month) and long-term impact (i.e. by years). The costs due to preventive countermeasure against biological threats (e.g. prevention, protection and preparedness expenses) are not taken into account. To this purpose, information on the key features of past biological incidents can be used as case studies to try to build impact profiles taking into account the proposed two main dimensions. Consequence management and effect mitigation of CBRN emergencies and disasters may benefit from an ex ante definition of the impact profiling related to this kind of incidents. The final goal of this paper is to define an approach to organize information on possible biological events according to their impact profile for supporting more effective and efficient first responders' prompt actions and policy makers' strategic decisions after the event occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cavallini
- Fondazione FORMIT, Via Giovanni Gemelli Careri 11, 00147, Rome, Italy,
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Hansen T, Skånseng B, Hoorfar J, Löfström C. Evaluation of direct 16S rDNA sequencing as a metagenomics-based approach to screening bacteria in bottled water. Biosecur Bioterror 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S158-65. [PMID: 23971801 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2012.0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Deliberate or accidental contamination of food, feed, and water supplies poses a threat to human health worldwide. A rapid and sensitive detection technique that could replace the current labor-intensive and time-consuming culture-based methods is highly desirable. In addition to species-specific assays, such as PCR, there is a need for generic methods to screen for unknown pathogenic microorganisms in samples. This work presents a metagenomics-based direct-sequencing approach for detecting unknown microorganisms, using Bacillus cereus (as a model organism for B. anthracis) in bottled water as an example. Total DNA extraction and 16S rDNA gene sequencing were used in combination with principle component analysis and multicurve resolution to study detection level and possibility for identification. Results showed a detection level of 10(5) to 10(6) CFU/L. Using this method, it was possible to separate 2 B. cereus strains by the principal component plot, despite the close sequence resemblance. A linear correlation between the artificial contamination level and the relative amount of the Bacillus artificial contaminant in the metagenome was observed, and a relative amount value above 0.5 confirmed the presence of Bacillus. The analysis also revealed that background flora in the bottled water varied between the different water types that were included in the study. This method has the potential to be adapted to other biological matrices and bacterial pathogens for fast screening of unknown bacterial threats in outbreak situations.
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Lõhmus M, Janse I, van de Goot F, van Rotterdam BJ. Rodents as potential couriers for bioterrorism agents. Biosecur Bioterror 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S247-57. [PMID: 23971813 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2012.0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Many pathogens that can cause major public health, economic, and social damage are relatively easily accessible and could be used as biological weapons. Wildlife is a natural reservoir for many potential bioterrorism agents, and, as history has shown, eliminating a pathogen that has dispersed among wild fauna can be extremely challenging. Since a number of wild rodent species live close to humans, rodents constitute a vector for pathogens to circulate among wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. This article reviews the possible consequences of a deliberate spread of rodentborne pathogens. It is relatively easy to infect wild rodents with certain pathogens or to release infected rodents, and the action would be difficult to trace. Rodents can also function as reservoirs for diseases that have been spread during a bioterrorism attack and cause recurring disease outbreaks. As rats and mice are common in both urban and rural settlements, deliberately released rodentborne infections have the capacity to spread very rapidly. The majority of pathogens that are listed as potential agents of bioterrorism by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases exploit rodents as vectors or reservoirs. In addition to zoonotic diseases, deliberately released rodentborne epizootics can have serious economic consequences for society, for example, in the area of international trade restrictions. The ability to rapidly detect introduced diseases and effectively communicate with the public in crisis situations enables a quick response and is essential for successful and cost-effective disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mare Lõhmus
- Mare Lõhmus, PhD is Associate Professor, Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre, Uppsala, Sweden. Ingmar Janse, PhD, is Senior Scientist, and Bart J. van Rotterdam, PhD, is a Microbiologist, both in the Department of Zoonoses & Environmental Microbiology, Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) , Section I & V, Bilthoven, the Netherlands. Frank van de Goot, PhD, is Senior Forensic Pathologist, Symbiant (pathology expert centre), Alkmaar, the Netherlands
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You S, Wan MP. Particle concentration dynamics in the ventilation duct after an artificial release: for countering potential bioterrorist attack. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2014; 267:183-193. [PMID: 24447859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2013.12.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Ventilation duct serves as a potential target for bioterrorist attack. Understanding the dynamics of aerosolized harmful agents in the ventilation ducts provides the fundamentals for effective control and management, e.g., risk assessment. In this work, new models for predicting the concentration dynamics in the ventilation duct after a particle resuspension (representing the case that harmful agents are dosed when the ventilation is off and subsequently being turned on) or puff injection (representing the case that harmful agents are dosed when the ventilation is running) event were derived based on the mass balance model. The models were validated by a series of wind tunnel experiments. Indoor airborne particle concentration models were derived by incorporating the proposed ventilation duct models for resuspension and injection cases. The effects of resuspension and injection in the duct on indoor airborne particle concentration were examined by two hypothetical cases of Bacillus anthracis dosage using the derived models. For the same amount of BW agent dosage in the ventilation duct, the resuspension type release prolongs the exposure of harmful agents whereas the injection type release produces a higher peak concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siming You
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Man Pun Wan
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore, Singapore.
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Nelson M, Roffey P, McNevin D, Lennard C, Gahan ME. An overview of biosecurity in Australia. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2014.882986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Tobudic S, Nedomansky K, Poeppl W, Müller M, Faas A, Mooseder G, Allerberger F, Stanek G, Burgmann H. Seroprevalence for Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis in Austrian adults: a cross-sectional survey among military personnel and civilians. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2014; 5:315-7. [PMID: 24572607 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2013] [Revised: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, Brucella abortus, and Brucella melitensis infections in Austria and the exposure risk of military personnel were assessed in an exploratory nationwide cross-sectional seroprevalence survey in 526 healthy adult individuals, 222 of which were soldiers and 304 were civilians. Screening for IgA/IgG antibodies to C. burnetii (Phase I) and IgG/IgM antibodies to C. burnetii (Phase II), and to F. tularensis was done with commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. To detect antibodies against B. abortus and B. melitensis, an in-house complement fixation test was used. Overall, 11 individuals (2.0%) showed antibodies to C. burnetii, 3 individuals (0.5%) were seropositive for F. tularensis, and one (0.3%) individual was borderline positive. All individuals positive or borderline for F. tularensis tested negative for antibodies against C. burnetii. All individuals tested negative for antibodies against B. melitensis/B. abortus. There were no significant differences between the seroprevalence of C. burnetii and F. tularensis among military personnel and civilians. Our data demonstrate serological evidence of a low rate of exposure to C. burnetii and F. tularensis among the Austrian adult population and military personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Tobudic
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klara Nedomansky
- Fachhochschule Campus Wien, University of Applied Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Poeppl
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Department of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Military Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Müller
- Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angelus Faas
- Institute for Medical Support, Military Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Mooseder
- Department of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Military Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Gerold Stanek
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz Burgmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Kassem II, Splitter GA, Miller S, Rajashekara G. Let There Be Light! Bioluminescent Imaging to Study Bacterial Pathogenesis in Live Animals and Plants. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014; 154:119-45. [DOI: 10.1007/10_2014_280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Woubit A, Yehualaeshet T, Roberts S, Graham M, Kim M, Samuel T. Customizable PCR-microplate array for differential identification of multiple pathogens. J Food Prot 2013; 76:1948-57. [PMID: 24215700 PMCID: PMC4269242 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-13-153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Customizable PCR-microplate arrays were developed for the rapid identification of Salmonella Typhimurium, Salmonella Saintpaul, Salmonella Typhi, Shigella dysenteriae, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Francisella tularensis subsp. tularensis, Francisella tularensis subsp. novicida, Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Yersinia pestis, and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. Previously, we identified highly specific primers targeting each of these pathogens. Here, we report the development of customizable PCR-microplate arrays for simultaneous identification of the pathogens using the primers identified. A mixed aliquot of genomic DNA from 38 strains was used to validate three PCR-microplate array formats. Identical PCR conditions were used to run all the samples on the three formats. Specific amplifications were obtained on all three custom plates. In preliminary tests performed to evaluate the sensitivity of these assays in samples inoculated in the laboratory with Salmonella Typhimurium, amplifications were obtained from 1 g of beef hot dog inoculated at as low as 9 CFU/ml or from milk inoculated at as low as 78 CFU/ml. Such microplate arrays could be valuable tools for initial identification or secondary confirmation of contamination by these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdela Woubit
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama 36088, USA.
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Abstract
Bioterrorism is not only a reality of the times in which we live but bioweapons have been used for centuries. Critical care physicians play a major role in the recognition of and response to a bioterrorism attack. Critical care clinicians must be familiar with the diagnosis and management of the most likely bioterrorism agents, and also be adequately prepared to manage a mass casualty situation. This article reviews the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the most likely agents of biowarfare and bioterrorism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Christian
- Royal Canadian Air Force, Department of National Defence, 600 University Avenue, Room 18-232-1, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.
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Kim SS, Oh DW, Jo HJ, Chu C. Introduction of the Republic of Korea-the United States of America's Joint Exercise Against Biothreats in 2013: Able Response 13. Osong Public Health Res Perspect 2013; 4:285-90. [PMID: 24298445 PMCID: PMC3845232 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrp.2013.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Republic of Korea (ROK) and the the United States of America (USA) has held joint exercises to respond to biothreats in the Korean Peninsula since 2011. The exercise was called Able Response (AR) and it aims to coordinate interministerial procedures inside Korea and international procedures in requesting the medical resources urgently between ROK and USA, and among ROK and the United Nations, and nongovernmental organizations. AR13 was a functional exercise with a scenario that presumed a series of attack by terrorists, dispersing Bacillus anthracis in Seoul. The participants conducted exercises with action cells and using point-to-point communication system. It was followed by Senior Leadership Seminar participated by high-ranking officials in ROK and USA to discuss possible collaboration in advance. AR and its following actions will fortify collaboration between ROK and USA and enhance the capability of countermeasures against biothreats in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Sun Kim
- Division of Bioterrorism Preparedness & Response, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong, Korea
| | - Dong Whan Oh
- Korea Arms Verification Agency, Ministry of National Defense, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Jung Jo
- Division of Bioterrorism Preparedness & Response, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong, Korea
| | - Chaeshin Chu
- Division of Epidemic Intelligence Service, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong, Korea
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Abstract
Francisella tularensis is a gram-negative bacterium that causes the zoonotic disease tularemia. Francisella is highly infectious via the respiratory route (~10 CFUs) and pulmonary infections due to type A strains of F. tularensis are highly lethal in untreated patients (>30%). In addition, no vaccines are licensed to prevent tularemia in humans. Due to the high infectivity and mortality of pulmonary tularemia, F. tularensis has been weaponized, including via the introduction of antibiotic resistance, by several countries. Because of the lack of efficacious vaccines, and concerns about F. tularensis acquiring resistance to antibiotics via natural or illicit means, augmentation of host immunity, and humoral immunotherapy have been investigated as countermeasures against tularemia. This manuscript will review advances made and challenges in the field of immunotherapy against tularemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerod A Skyberg
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology and Laboratory for Infectious Disease Research; University of Missouri; Columbia, MO USA
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A simple model for assessment of anti-toxin antibodies. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:230906. [PMID: 23862138 PMCID: PMC3687717 DOI: 10.1155/2013/230906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The toxins associated with infectious diseases are potential targets for inhibitors which have the potential for prophylactic or therapeutic use. Many antibodies have been generated for this purpose, and the objective of this study was to develop a simple mathematical model that may be used to evaluate the potential protective effect of antibodies. This model was used to evaluate the contributions of antibody affinity and concentration to reducing antibody-receptor complex formation and internalization. The model also enables prediction of the antibody kinetic constants and concentration required to provide a specified degree of protection. We hope that this model, once validated experimentally, will be a useful tool for in vitro selection of potentially protective antibodies for progression to in vivo evaluation.
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A focused ethnographic study of Alberta cattle veterinarians' decision making about diagnostic laboratory submissions and perceptions of surveillance programs. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64811. [PMID: 23741397 PMCID: PMC3669388 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The animal and public health communities need to address the challenge posed by zoonotic emerging infectious diseases. To minimize the impacts of future events, animal disease surveillance will need to enable prompt event detection and response. Diagnostic laboratory-based surveillance systems targeting domestic animals depend in large part on private veterinarians to submit samples from cases to a laboratory. In contexts where pre-diagnostic laboratory surveillance systems have been implemented, this group of veterinarians is often asked to input data. This scenario holds true in Alberta where private cattle veterinarians have been asked to participate in the Alberta Veterinary Surveillance Network-Veterinary Practice Surveillance, a platform to which pre-diagnostic disease and non-disease case data are submitted. Consequently, understanding the factors that influence these veterinarians to submit cases to a laboratory and the complex of factors that affect their participation in surveillance programs is foundational to interpreting disease patterns reported by laboratories and engaging veterinarians in surveillance. A focused ethnographic study was conducted with ten cattle veterinarians in Alberta. Individual in-depth interviews with participants were recorded and transcribed to enable thematic analysis. Laboratory submissions were biased toward outbreaks of unknown cause, cases with unusual mortality rates, and issues with potential herd-level implications. Decreasing cattle value and government support for laboratory testing have contributed to fewer submissions over time. Participants were willing participants in surveillance, though government support and collaboration were necessary. Changes in the beef industry and veterinary profession, as well as cattle producers themselves, present both challenges and opportunities in surveillance.
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Comparison of genomes of Brucella melitensis M28 and the B. melitensis M5-90 derivative vaccine strain highlights the translation elongation factor Tu gene tuf2 as an attenuation-related gene. Infect Immun 2013; 81:2812-8. [PMID: 23716607 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00224-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Brucella melitensis causes brucellosis, a disease affecting sheep, cattle, and sometimes humans. Attenuated B. melitensis strain M5-90, derived from virulent strain M28, is widely used as a live vaccine in ruminants in China. Genetic differences between the strains may cast light on the mechanism of attenuation. We recently reported the complete genomic sequences of M28 and M5-90. Genome organization is highly conserved between these isolates, and also with virulent strains 16 M and ATCC 23457. Analysis revealed 23 open reading frames (ORFs) with consistent differences between M5-90 and the virulent strains. Notably, the tuf2 gene encoding translation elongation factor EF-Tu from M5-90 contained 50 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 9 gaps (indels) compared to tuf2 of M28 or of the other virulent strains. There were no changes in tuf1. To evaluate the potential role of EF-Tu in pathogenesis, tuf1 and tuf2 mutants of M28 and an M5-90 strain harboring wild-type tuf2 were constructed, and their virulence/attenuation was evaluated in vivo. We report that the tuf2 gene plays an important role in the attenuation of M5-90 virulence.
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Bad & breakfast. Interview by Sophia Häfner. Microbes Infect 2013; 15:531-3. [PMID: 23624106 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2013.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 04/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Liu TY, Sanders JL, Tsui FC, Espino JU, Dato VM, Suyama J. Association of over-the-counter pharmaceutical sales with influenza-like-illnesses to patient volume in an urgent care setting. PLoS One 2013; 8:e59273. [PMID: 23555647 PMCID: PMC3605458 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0059273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the association between OTC pharmaceutical sales and volume of patients with influenza-like-illnesses (ILI) at an urgent care center over one year. OTC pharmaceutical sales explain 36% of the variance in the patient volume, and each standard deviation increase is associated with 4.7 more patient visits to the urgent care center (p<0.0001). Cross-correlation function analysis demonstrated that OTC pharmaceutical sales are significantly associated with patient volume during non-flu season (p<0.0001), but only the sales of cough and cold (p<0.0001) and thermometer (p<0.0001) categories were significant during flu season with a lag of two and one days, respectively. Our study is the first study to demonstrate and measure the relationship between OTC pharmaceutical sales and urgent care center patient volume, and presents strong evidence that OTC sales predict urgent care center patient volume year round.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Y. Liu
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jason L. Sanders
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Fu-Chiang Tsui
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Real-time Outbreak and Disease Surveillance Laboratory, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jeremy U. Espino
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Real-time Outbreak and Disease Surveillance Laboratory, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Virginia M. Dato
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Pennsylvania Department of Health, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Joe Suyama
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Urgent Care at Shadyside, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Pérez MA, Pinzón-Pérez H, Sowby S. The Role of Health Educators in Dealing with Biological Threats in the United States. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2002.10603510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Pérez
- a Department of Health Science , California State University , Fresno 2345 E. San Ramon Ave. M/S 30, Fresno , CA , 93740 , USA
| | - Helda Pinzón-Pérez
- a Department of Health Science , California State University , Fresno 2345 E. San Ramon Ave. M/S 30, Fresno , CA , 93740 , USA
| | - Sherman Sowby
- a Department of Health Science , California State University , Fresno 2345 E. San Ramon Ave. M/S 30, Fresno , CA , 93740 , USA
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Hong KJ, Park PG, Seo SH, Rhie GE, Hwang KJ. Current status of vaccine development for tularemia preparedness. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2013; 2:34-9. [PMID: 23596588 PMCID: PMC3623498 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2013.2.1.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 12/20/2012] [Accepted: 12/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Tularemia is a high-risk infectious disease caused by Gram-negative bacterium Francisella tularensis. Due to its high fatality at very low colony-forming units (less than 10), F. tularensis is considered as a powerful potential bioterrorism agent. Vaccine could be the most efficient way to prevent the citizen from infection of F. tularensis when the bioterrorism happens, but officially approved vaccine with both efficacy and safety is not developed yet. Research for the development of tularemia vaccine has been focusing on the live attenuated vaccine strain (LVS) for long history, still there are no LVS confirmed for the safety which should be an essential factor for general vaccination program. Furthermore the LVS did not show protection efficacy against high-risk subspecies tularensis (type A) as high as the level against subspecies holarctica (type B) in human. Though the subunit or recombinant vaccine candidates have been considered for better safety, any results did not show better prevention efficacy than the LVS candidate against F. tularensis infection. Currently there are some more trials to develop vaccine using mutant strains or nonpathogenic F. novicida strain, but it did not reveal effective candidates overwhelming the LVS either. Difference in the protection efficacy of LVS against type A strain in human and the low level protection of many subunit or recombinant vaccine candidates lead the scientists to consider the live vaccine development using type A strain could be ultimate answer for the tularemia vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kee-Jong Hong
- Division of High-Risk Pathogen Research, Center for Infectious Diseases, Korea National Institute of Health, Cheongwon, Korea
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Shabani A, Marquette CA, Mandeville R, Lawrence MF. Carbon microarrays for the direct impedimetric detection of Bacillus anthracis using Gamma phages as probes. Analyst 2013; 138:1434-40. [DOI: 10.1039/c3an36830k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Friedlander AM, Grabenstein JD, Brachman PS. Anthrax vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4557-0090-5.00022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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