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Udo S, Ogbu PS, Tsaku PA, Tukur A, NewMarch A. An evaluation of mental health integration in the neglected tropical diseases program in Zamfara, North-west Nigeria. Int Health 2024; 16:i52-i59. [PMID: 38547351 PMCID: PMC10977942 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihae003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are critical in healthcare systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Several policies are planned or designed by health stakeholders to address the mental health needs of people affected by NTDs. Still, the impact of such policies seems to be of no consequence. METHODS The GAD-7 and PHQ-9 tools were used to determine the rate of depression and anxiety, respectively, among people affected by skin NTDs (leprosy and lymphatic filariasis [LF]) in Zamfara State, North-west Nigeria. The study also evaluated the barriers to the uptake of mental health services for people affected by skin NTDs in the state. We assessed 48 people affected by NTDs (leprosy, 32; lymphatic filariasis, 16) along with a corresponding 48 people who served as controls in the study. Qualitative interviews were carried out with the participants to elicit the barriers to mental health services for people affected by NTDs. Additionally, 48 selected healthcare workers from the state were assessed for their skills and capacity to offer mental health services. RESULTS We found anxiety disorder present in 100% of the people living with LF and in 62% of the people living with leprosy. Depression was also found in 56% and 75% of the people living with leprosy and LF, respectively. An assessment of the barriers to the uptake of mental health services reveals that most people with NTDs are constrained by a lack of money to visit hospitals, the fear of stigmatisation and discrimination and long distances to health centres. Regarding the healthcare workers, the skills and capacity to offer mental health services were very low. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that for mental health services to be integrated into the community health system for people with NTDs, there should be a concerted effort by all stakeholders and the intervention should be context specific instead of generalised. CONTEXTE La santé mentale et les maladies tropicales négligées (MTN) sont des problématiques centrales dans la santé, en particulier dans les pays à revenu faible ou intermédiaire. Plusieurs politiques sont conçues par les acteurs de la santé publique pour répondre aux besoins de soins en santé mentale pour les personnes touchées par les MTN. Pourtant, le bilan reste mitigé quant à l'efficacité de ces soins. MÉTHODES Les outils GAD-7 et PHQ-9 ont été utilisés pour déterminer le taux de dépression et d'anxiété chez les personnes atteintes de MTN cutanées (lèpre et filariose lymphatique) dans l'État de Zamfara, au nord-ouest du Nigeria. L'étude a également évalué les obstacles à l'utilisation des services de santé mentale pour les personnes atteintes de MTN cutanées dans l'État. Nous avons évalué 48 personnes atteintes de MTN (lèpre : 32, filariose lymphatique : 16) ainsi que 48 personnes correspondantes qui ont servi de témoins dans l'étude. Des entretiens qualitatifs ont été menés avec les participants afin d'identifier les obstacles aux services de santé mentale pour les personnes atteintes de MTN. En outre, 48 professionnels de la santé sélectionnés dans l'État ont été évalués pour déterminer leurs compétences et leur capacité à offrir des services de santé mentale. RÉSULTATS Nous avons trouvé des troubles anxieux chez 100% des personnes atteintes de filariose lymphatique et chez 62% des personnes atteintes de lèpre. La dépression touche 56% et 75% des personnes vivant avec la lèpre et la filariose lymphatique respectivement. Une évaluation des obstacles à l'utilisation des services de santé mentale révèle que la plupart des personnes atteintes de MTN sont limitées par le manque d'argent pour se rendre à l'hôpital, la peur de la stigmatisation et de la discrimination, et les longues distances à parcourir pour se rendre dans les centres de santé. Les compétences et les capacités des professionnels de la santé à offrir des services de santé mentale sont très faibles. CONCLUSION L'efficacité d'un protocole de soins pour les patients atteints de MTN (traitant la pathologie physique et d'éventuelles pathologies psychiatriques associées) nécessite une intégration des services de santé mentale dans le système de santé communautaire. ANTECEDENTES La salud mental y las enfermedades tropicales desatendidas (ETDs), son fundamentales en los sistemas sanitarios, especialmente en los países de renta baja y media. Las partes interesadas en la sanidad planean o diseñan varias políticas para abordar las necesidades de salud mental de las personas afectadas por ETDs. Sin embargo, el impacto de dichas políticas parece ser nulo. MÉTODOS Se utilizaron las herramientas GAD-7 y PHQ-9 para determinar la tasa de depresión y ansiedad, respectivamente, entre las personas afectadas por ETDs cutáneas (lepra y filariasis linfática) en el Estado de Zamfara, al noroeste de Nigeria. El estudio también evaluó las barreras para la aceptación de los servicios de salud mental por parte de las personas afectadas por ETDs cutáneas en el Estado. Se evaluó a 48 personas afectadas por ETDs (lepra: 32; filariasis linfática: 16) y a otras 48 que sirvieron de control en el estudio. Se llevaron a cabo entrevistas cualitativas con los participantes para determinar las barreras a los servicios de salud mental para las personas afectadas por ETDs. Además, se evaluaron las habilidades y la capacidad para ofrecer servicios de salud mental de 48 profesionales sanitarios del Estado. RESULTADOS Encontramos trastorno de ansiedad presente en el 100% de las personas que vivían con filariasis linfática y en el 62% de las personas que vivían con lepra. También se encontró depresión en el 56% y el 75% de las personas que vivían con lepra y filariasis linfática respectivamente. Una evaluación de los obstáculos para la utilización de los servicios de salud mental revela que la mayoría de las personas con ETDs se ven limitadas por la falta de dinero para acudir a los hospitales, el miedo a la estigmatización, la discriminación y las largas distancias hasta los centros sanitarios. Por parte del personal sanitario, los conocimientos y la capacidad para ofrecer servicios de salud mental eran muy escasos. CONCLUSIONES Para que los servicios de salud mental para personas con ETD se integren en el sistema sanitario comunitario, debe haber una concertación entre todas las partes interesadas y la intervención debe ser específica para cada contexto en lugar de generalizada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunday Udo
- Leprosy Mission Nigeria, 12/14 Kings Drive, Fort Royal Homes Estate, Lugbe, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Pius Sunday Ogbu
- Leprosy Mission Nigeria, 12/14 Kings Drive, Fort Royal Homes Estate, Lugbe, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Paul A Tsaku
- Leprosy Mission Nigeria, 12/14 Kings Drive, Fort Royal Homes Estate, Lugbe, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Aliyu Tukur
- Zamfara State Tuberculosis Buruli Ulcer, and Leprosy Control Programme, Gusau, Nigeria
| | - Andrew NewMarch
- Leprosy Mission Australia, 37-39 Ellingworth Parade, Box Hill, VIC 3128 Australia
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Vasconcelos ADO, Bedoya-Pacheco SJ, Cunha E Silva RR, Magalhães MDAFM, de Sá TPSO, Dias CMG, Meneguete PS, de Almeida PMP, Pimentel MIF. Spatial-temporal distribution of visceral leishmaniasis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2001-2020: expansion and challenges. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024:trae009. [PMID: 38517304 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trae009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visceral leishmaniasis results from complex interactions among humans, dogs and environment. Brazil accounts for 97% of cases in the Americas. METHODS Twenty years (2001-2020) of the endemic disease in the state of Rio de Janeiro were studied. Incidence, lethality, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were investigated, complemented with spatial methodologies (kernel and clusters). RESULTS Ninety-seven human cases and 625 dogs were reported. Of the 92 cities, 22 were human endemic areas. The state had a low incidence level (0.6 per 100 000). Lethality was higher compared with the Brazilian average. More than 90% of infections occurred in urban areas. Most cases (66%) occurred in men. The predominant age groups were 0-4 y (28.7%) and 20-39 y (32.9%). Fever (89.5%), splenomegaly (83.2%) and hepatomegaly (76.8%) were the main clinical manifestations. Spatial analysis showed a displacement of the human endemic: in the first decade (2001-2010), cases were concentrated in the Metropolitan region, and in the second decade (2011-2020) in the Médio Paraíba region of the state. Most of the endemic area (56.4%) had canine infections without reported human cases. CONCLUSIONS Disorderly urbanisation and precarious living conditions favour the transmission of the disease. Changes in the environment and migratory processes contribute to its expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex de O Vasconcelos
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica e Vigilância em Leishmanioses, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sandro J Bedoya-Pacheco
- Departamento de Epidemiologia e Métodos Quantitativos em Saúde, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1480, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 21041-210, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rafael R Cunha E Silva
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica e Vigilância em Leishmanioses, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mônica de A F M Magalhães
- Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Científica e Técnológica em Saúde, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pavilhão Haity Moussatché, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tayana P S O de Sá
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica e Vigilância em Leishmanioses, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Cristina M G Dias
- Secretaria de Estado de Saúde do Rio de Janeiro, Rua México 128 sala 420, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 20031-142, RJ, Brazil
| | - Patrícia S Meneguete
- Secretaria de Estado de Saúde do Rio de Janeiro, Rua México 128 sala 420, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 20031-142, RJ, Brazil
| | - Paula M P de Almeida
- Secretaria de Estado de Saúde do Rio de Janeiro, Rua México 128 sala 420, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 20031-142, RJ, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês F Pimentel
- Laboratório de Pesquisa Clínica e Vigilância em Leishmanioses, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
- Instituto de Comunicação e Informação Científica e Técnológica em Saúde, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pavilhão Haity Moussatché, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
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de Sousa Oliveira R, Andrade Pimentel KB, Ribeiro da Silva RC, Suely Guimarães-E-Silva A, Soares Moura ME, Soares Pinheiro VC. Spatial-temporal risk clusters, social vulnerability, and identification of priority areas for surveillance and control of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Maranhão, Brazil: an ecological study. J Med Entomol 2024; 61:481-490. [PMID: 38157319 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a neglected disease widely distributed in Maranhão, Brazil and presents a significant public health problem. However, its transmission dynamics and determining factors are not clearly understood. In this context, geospatial technologies help interpret the process. This study, then, characterized the space-time dynamics and the influence of social vulnerability on CL in an endemic area in Northeast Brazil. This is an ecological study about new cases of CL in Maranhão, from 2007 to 2020, obtained directly from the Notifiable Diseases Information System. The incidence rate was smoothed using a spatial empirical Bayesian method. Subsequently, global and local Moran statistics and their association with social vulnerability indicators were determined. Disease distribution was not random but grouped in space and time. All Social Vulnerability Index domains were positively correlated with the CL incidence. A likely cluster was detected in western Maranhão (P < 0.001), which encompassed 18 municipalities, from January 2007 to December 2013, with a high relative risk (5.06). The research findings suggest that planning public health actions and allocating resources should be prioritized in these areas to help effectively reduce the incidence of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romário de Sousa Oliveira
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | - Karen Brayner Andrade Pimentel
- Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia - Rede BIONORTE, Avenida dos Portugueses, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, Maranhão, 65080-805, Brazil|
| | - Rosa Cristina Ribeiro da Silva
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | - Antonia Suely Guimarães-E-Silva
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | - Maria Edileuza Soares Moura
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | - Valéria Cristina Soares Pinheiro
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
- Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia - Rede BIONORTE, Avenida dos Portugueses, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, Maranhão, 65080-805, Brazil
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Gomez DVF, de Almeida WDS, de Souza Junior PRB, Lopes MDFC, Luna EJDA, Zimmermann IR, Tavares NUL, Gutierrez MMU, Szwarcwald CL. Prevalence of trachoma in indigenous and non-indigenous areas, Northeastern Brazil, 2019-2021. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2024; 48:e19. [PMID: 38464869 PMCID: PMC10924615 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2024.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To estimate the prevalence of trachoma in indigenous and non-indigenous populations in selected areas of the state of Maranhão, in northeastern Brazil. Methods This was a population-based survey with probabilistic sampling. For the diagnosis of trachoma, external ocular examination was performed using head magnifying loupes, at 2.5X magnification. The prevalence of trachomatous inflammation - follicular (TF) in children aged 1-9 years and the prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis (TT) in the population aged ≥15 years were estimated. Relative frequencies of sociodemographic and environmental characteristics were obtained. Results The study included 7 971 individuals, 3 429 from non-indigenous populations and 4 542 from indigenous populations. The prevalence of TF in non-indigenous and indigenous populations was 0.1% and 2.9%, respectively, and the prevalence of TT among indigenous populations was 0.1%. Conclusions The prevalence of TF and TT in the two evaluation units in the state of Maranhão were within the limits recommended for the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem. However, the prevalence of TF was higher in the indigenous evaluation unit, indicating a greater vulnerability of this population to the disease. The prevalence of TF of below 5.0% implies a reduction in transmission, which may have resulted from improved socioeconomic conditions and/or the implementation of the World Health Organization SAFE strategy.
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Bruhn FRP, Werneck GL, Barbosa DS, Câmara DCP, Simões TC, Buzanovsky LP, Duarte AGS, de Melo SN, Cardoso DT, Donato LE, Maia-Elkhoury ANS, Belo VS. Spatio-temporal dynamics of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil: A nonlinear regression analysis. Zoonoses Public Health 2024; 71:144-156. [PMID: 37984837 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This study describes the spatio-temporal dynamics of new visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases notified in Brazil between 2001 and 2020. METHODS AND RESULTS Data on the occurrence of the disease were obtained by means of the Notifiable Diseases Information System of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Joinpoint, temporal generalized additive models and conditional autoregressive (CAR) models were used to analyse the temporal evolution of the rates in Brazil, states and regions. Spatio-temporal generalized additive and CAR models were used to identify the distribution of annual risks of VL occurrence in the Brazilian territory in relation to variation in the spatial average. There were 63,966 VL cases in the target period (3.198 cases/year), corresponding to a mean incidence rate of 1.68 cases/100,000 inhabitants. Of these, 4451 resulted in deaths, which gives a mean mortality rate of 0.12 deaths/100,000 inhabitants and a case fatality of 6.96%. The highest incidence rate was found in the North region, followed closely by the Northeast region, which presented the second and first highest mortality rates, respectively. For all of Brazil, and in the Northeast region, there were stability in the incidence rates, while the other regions showed an increasing trend in different time segments in the period: Central-West up to 2011, North up to 2008, Southeast up to 2004, and South up to 2010. On the other hand, all regions experienced a reduction in incidence rate during the last years of the series. The Northeast region had the highest number of municipalities with statistically significant elevated relative risks. The spatio-temporal analysis showed the highest risk area predominantly in the Northeast region in the beginning of the time series. From 2002 to 2018, this area expanded to the interior of the country. CONCLUSIONS The present study has shown that VL has expanded in Brazil. However, the North and Northeast regions continue to have the highest incidence, and the risk of infection has decreased in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio Raphael Pascoti Bruhn
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia Veterinária, Departamento de Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Capão do Leão, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Loureiro Werneck
- Departamento de Epidemiologia, Instituto de Medicina Social, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - David Soeiro Barbosa
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Taynãna César Simões
- NESPE - Núcleo de Estudos em Saúde Pública e Envelhecimento, Instituto Rene Rachou (Fiocruz-Minas), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Saulo Nascimento de Melo
- Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil
| | - Diogo Tavares Cardoso
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Vinícius Silva Belo
- Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil
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Torp N, Israelsen M, Coenraad M, Papp M, Shawcross D, Korenjak M, Angeli P, Laleman W, Juanola A, Gines P, Trebicka J, Krag A. Personalised human albumin in patients with cirrhosis and ascites: design and rationale for the ALB-TRIAL - a randomised clinical biomarker validation trial. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e079309. [PMID: 38355195 PMCID: PMC10868305 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-079309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human albumin is used in the treatment of complications of cirrhosis. However, the use of long-term human albumin administration is costly and resource demanding for both patients and healthcare systems. A precision medicine approach with biomarkers to predict human albumin treatment response, so-called predictive biomarkers, could make this a viable treatment option in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. METHODS AND ANALYSIS ALB-TRIAL is a multinational, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised controlled trial. We aim to validate a predictive biomarker, consisting of a panel of circulating metabolites, to predict the treatment response to human albumin in patients with cirrhosis and ascites. All enrolled patients are stratified into a high-expected or low-expected effect stratum of human albumin based on the biomarker outcome. After stratification, patients in each group are randomised into either active treatment (20% human albumin) or corresponding placebo (0.9% NaCl) every 10th day for 6 months. The primary outcome is the cumulative number of liver-related events (composite of decompensation episodes, transjugular intrahepatic shunt insertion, liver transplantation and death). Key secondary outcomes include time-to-event analysis of primary outcome components, an analysis of the total healthcare burden and a health economic analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial obtained ethical and regulatory approval in Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Hungary and Spain through the Clinical Trials Information System (CTIS) from 13 February 2023, while UK approvals from the Health Regulatory Authority, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and Research Ethics Committee are pending. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at conferences, communicated to relevant stakeholders and in the public registry of CTIS, following trial completion. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05056220 EU CT: 2022-501006-34-01.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaj Torp
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mads Israelsen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Minneke Coenraad
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Papp
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Debbie Shawcross
- Institute of Liver Studies, Department of Inflammation Biology, School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Paolo Angeli
- University of Padua, Padova, Italy
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wim Laleman
- KU Leuven Hospital, Leuven, Belgium
- Medizinische Klinik B, University Hospital Münster, Munster, Germany
| | - Adria Juanola
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pere Gines
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Jonel Trebicka
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
- Medizinische Klinik B, University Hospital Münster, Munster, Germany
| | - Aleksander Krag
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Silva JGN, Silva SDS, Gomes TCM, Nascimento GDS, Valentim LDA, Quaresma TC, Fernandes FDP, Oliveira SMSD, Moraes WP. Empowering Riverine Communities in the Amazon: Strategies for Preventing Rabies. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2024; 21:117. [PMID: 38276811 PMCID: PMC10815026 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21010117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Rabies, caused by the Lyssavirus genus, is a highly lethal zoonotic disease transmitted by animals such as bats and domestic and wild carnivores to humans, claiming nearly 100% of lives. In Brazil, recent evidence suggests an increasing role of bats in human deaths from rabies, particularly in the Amazon region. This neglected tropical disease disproportionately affects impoverished and vulnerable populations in rural areas, where approximately 80% of human cases are concentrated. This article presents research conducted in riverine communities of the Tapajós/Arapiuns Extractive Reserve in Brazil to combat rabies in September 2022. The study adopted a participatory and collaborative approach, involving community members, healthcare professionals, and educators. Prioritizing proactive interventions, the health team administered prophylactic vaccinations to 30 individuals residing in communities exposed to the Lyssavirus. Educational activities focused on dispelling myths and raising awareness about preventive measures, with 100% of individuals reporting prior doubts about the disease, emphasizing the essential nature of the clarification, especially regarding preventive aspects. This study underscores the importance of community involvement, personalized interventions, and ongoing education to effectively combat rabies. By reinforcing public health policies and promoting health education, we can empower communities to take proactive measures in rabies prevention, leading to a reduction in incidence and an improvement in quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Waldiney Pires Moraes
- Department of Health, Federal University of Western Pará/UFOPA, Santarém 68040-090, Brazil
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Carvalho L, Sarcinelli M, Patrício B. Nanotechnological approaches in the treatment of schistosomiasis: an overview. Beilstein J Nanotechnol 2024; 15:13-25. [PMID: 38213572 PMCID: PMC10777326 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.15.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis causes over 200,000 deaths annually. The current treatment option, praziquantel, presents limitations, including low bioavailability and resistance. In this context, nanoparticles have emerged as a promising option for improving schistosomiasis treatment. Several narrative reviews have been published on this topic. Unfortunately, the lack of clear methodologies presented in these reviews leads to the exclusion of many important studies without apparent justification. This integrative review aims to examine works published in this area with a precise and reproducible method. To achieve this, three databases (i.e., Pubmed, Web of Science, and Scopus) were searched from March 31, 2022, to March 31, 2023. The search results included only original research articles that used nanoparticles smaller than 1 µm in the treatment context. Additionally, a search was conducted in the references of the identified articles to retrieve works that could not be found solely using the original search formula. As a result, 65 articles that met the established criteria were identified. Inorganic and polymeric nanoparticles were the most prevalent nanosystems used. Gold was the primary material used to produce inorganic nanoparticles, while poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and chitosan were commonly used to produce polymeric nanoparticles. None of these identified works presented results in the clinical phase. Finally, based on our findings, the outlook appears favorable, as there is a significant diversity of new substances with schistosomicidal potential. However, financial efforts are required to advance these nanoformulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Carvalho
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, FIOCRUZ, Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Industrial Pharmaceutical Technology, Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Michelle Sarcinelli
- Post-Graduate Program in Industrial Pharmaceutical Technology, Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Patrício
- Post-Graduate Program in Industrial Pharmaceutical Technology, Farmanguinhos, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
- Pharmaceutical and Technological Innovation Laboratory - Department of Physiological Sciences, Biomedical Institute, R. Frei Caneca, 94, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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So AD, Woo J, Helble M. Enabling product development partnerships to bring forward the next generation of health technologies. Health Aff Sch 2024; 2:qxad088. [PMID: 38770112 PMCID: PMC11103732 DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxad088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Over the past quarter century, product development partnerships (PDPs) have importantly brought health technologies, particularly for neglected diseases, to market for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). With public sector financing, PDPs de-risk the gulf between where the global burden of disease falls and where paying markets exist. From fighting COVID-19 to developing novel antibiotics, the work of PDPs now extends beyond these traditional bounds. As PDPs have shepherded more health technologies to market, they are also confronting new access challenges. This article lays out 5 areas to strategically leverage the PDP model for better access to new health technologies. Making the case for enhanced support of the PDP approach will require greater transparency, as well as recognition of the contributions made by both public and private sector partners. The governance and funding of PDPs must be accountable to meeting the needs and building capacity of target beneficiaries in LMICs. To take an end-to-end approach, PDPs must work in tandem with other public sector institutions as well as local manufacturers as part of a larger innovation ecosystem. PDPs will need to keep pace with both the dynamics of diseases and markets in delivering the next generation of much needed health technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D So
- Innovation + Design Enabling Access (IDEA) Initiative, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Joshua Woo
- Innovation + Design Enabling Access (IDEA) Initiative, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Matthias Helble
- Research for Health Department, Science Division, World Health Organization, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
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Gallini N, Hancock REW, Lester R, Sharp B, Wasan KM. Implementation and impact of the global access principles at the University of British Columbia: current successes and future challenges. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1271618. [PMID: 38169728 PMCID: PMC10758455 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1271618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2007, the University of British Columbia (UBC) was the first university in Canada to establish and adopt global access (GA) principles. Toward implementing these principles, UBC then identified a set of strategies for providing affordable access to new UBC-developed technologies throughout low- and middle-income countries and among vulnerable populations. In this perspective, we provide an update of UBC's progress over the past 15 years made on several technologies that fall under the GA principles. The technologies reported on are wide-ranging, including an oral medication for the treatment of leishmaniasis; peptides for potential use against malaria, and various bacterial, viral and fungal infections; a portable vaccine cooler; a diagnostic technology to detect severe sepsis; and an SMS Messaging System to monitor and support patients with HIV, TB and COVID-19. We identify challenges faced by the researchers in implementing the GA principles for these technologies and potential solutions for overcoming them through creative licensing and partnerships with public and private sectors, governments, local companies, and communities. As the UBC example illustrates, universities across the globe have an opportunity to make a significant social impact on improving global health of vulnerable populations and on supporting local infrastructures for sustaining these improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Gallini
- Vancouver School of Economics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- The Neglected Global Diseases Initiative, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Robert E. W. Hancock
- The Neglected Global Diseases Initiative, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Science, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Richard Lester
- The Neglected Global Diseases Initiative, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Brett Sharp
- University-Industry Liaison Office, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kishor M. Wasan
- The Neglected Global Diseases Initiative, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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11
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de Oliveira Serra MAA, da Silva RAA, Monari FF, Silva JOE, de Sá Junior JX, Silva RDAE, Fontoura IG, Neto MS, de Araújo MFM. Individual, socioeconomic and healthcare access factors influencing the delays in leprosy presentation, diagnosis and treatment: a qualitative study. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2023; 117:852-858. [PMID: 37615659 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the factors influencing the presentation, diagnosis and treatment of leprosy in primary healthcare. METHODS Qualitative research was conducted on patients undergoing treatment in a priority hyperendemic region for leprosy control in northeastern Brazil. Interviews were conducted between September and December 2020 at primary healthcare centers. Data were analysed based on the basic interpretive qualitative structure according to Andersen and Newman's model of healthcare utilisation. RESULTS Knowledge of leprosy symptoms influenced patients' search for a diagnosis. Unfavorable socioeconomic conditions experienced by patients made diagnosis and treatment difficult. Incorrect evaluations by health professionals caused difficulties and delays in obtaining a diagnosis of leprosy. Perceptions about the disease, such as non-acceptance of the disease and the adverse effects of the medications, affected treatment seeking and treatment continuity. CONCLUSIONS Patients with leprosy faced delays and healthcare access barriers related to knowledge of the disease, socioeconomic conditions and the structure of healthcare services, which must be considered when creating care plans, surveillance and control actions against leprosy. Appropriate interventions are necessary to reduce delays and better control the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Flavia Ferreira Monari
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Imperatriz, Maranhão 65.915.060, Brazil
- Faculdade de Imperatriz (FACIMP-Wyden), Imperatriz, Maranhão 65.910.140, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Marcelino Santos Neto
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde e Tecnologia, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Imperatriz, Maranhão 65.915.060, Brazil
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Dos Santos GS, Sousa Teixeira MV, da Costa Clementino L, Gama-Filho PA, Pereira LM, Rodrigues Teixeira T, Cardoso Furtado NAJ, da Silva Graminha MA, Yatsuda AP, Neto PC, Edrada-Ebel RA, Debonsi HM. Annotation of GC-MS Data of Antimicrobial Constituents in the Antarctic Seaweed Phaeurus antarcticus by Molecular Networking. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202300429. [PMID: 37908056 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202300429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Phaeurus antarcticus is a member of the Desmarestiaceae family endemic to the Antarctic Peninsula. Reports addressing its chemical composition and biological activities are scarce. Herein, bioactive non-polar compounds of P. antarcticus against pathogenic bacteria, Leishmania amazonensis and Neospora caninum parasites were targeted through GC-MS Molecular Networking and multivariate analysis (OPLS-DA). The effects on horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were also evaluated. P. antarcticus exhibited selective bacteriostatic and bactericidal activities against Staphylococcus aureus with MIC and MBC values from 6.25-100 μg mL-1 . Fractions HX-FC and HX-FD were the most active against L. amazonensis with EC50 ranging from 18.5-62.3 μg mL-1 . Additionally, fractions HX-FC and HX-FD showed potent inhibition of N. caninum at EC50 values of 2.8 and 6.3 μg mL-1 , respectively. All fractions inhibited HRP activity, indicating possible interactions with Heme proteins. It was possible to annotate compounds from tree mains clusters, containing terpenoids, steroids, fatty acids, and alcohols by correlating the spectral data of the GC-MS analysis with Molecular Networking and the OPLS-DA results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Souza Dos Santos
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Valdeline Sousa Teixeira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Péricles Abreu Gama-Filho
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Luiz Miguel Pereira
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Thaiz Rodrigues Teixeira
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ana Patrícia Yatsuda
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Pio Colepicolo Neto
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ru Angelie Edrada-Ebel
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Hosana Maria Debonsi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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13
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Moreira-Filho JT, Neves BJ, Cajas RA, Moraes JD, Andrade CH. Artificial intelligence-guided approach for efficient virtual screening of hits against Schistosoma mansoni. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:2033-2050. [PMID: 37937522 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The impact of schistosomiasis, which affects over 230 million people, emphasizes the urgency of developing new antischistosomal drugs. Artificial intelligence is vital in accelerating the drug discovery process. Methodology & results: We developed classification and regression machine learning models to predict the schistosomicidal activity of compounds not experimentally tested. The prioritized compounds were tested on schistosomula and adult stages of Schistosoma mansoni. Four compounds demonstrated significant activity against schistosomula, with 50% effective concentration values ranging from 9.8 to 32.5 μM, while exhibiting no toxicity in animal and human cell lines. Conclusion: These findings represent a significant step forward in the discovery of antischistosomal drugs. Further optimization of these active compounds can pave the way for their progression into preclinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Teófilo Moreira-Filho
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Bruno Junior Neves
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Rayssa Araujo Cajas
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases (NPDN), Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center on Neglected Diseases (NPDN), Universidade Guarulhos, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- Laboratory of Molecular Modeling and Drug Design (LabMol), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, 74605-170, Brazil
- Center for the Research and Advancement in Fragments and molecular Targets (CRAFT), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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14
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Shepard DS, Agarwal‐Harding P, Jiamton S, Undurraga EA, Kongsin S. Enrollment of dengue patients in a prospective cohort study in Umphang District, Thailand, during the COVID-19 pandemic: Implications for research and policy. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1657. [PMID: 38028707 PMCID: PMC10630743 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Dengue is endemic in Thailand and imposes a high burden on the health system and society. We conducted a prospective cohort study in Umphang District, Tak Province, Thailand, to investigate the share of dengue cases with long symptoms and their duration. Here we present the results of the enrollment process during the COVID-19 pandemic with implications and challenges for research and policy. Methods In a prospective cohort study conducted in Umphang District, Thailand, we examined the prevalence of persistent symptoms in dengue cases. Clinically diagnosed cases were offered free laboratory testing, We enrolled ambulatory dengue patients regardless of age who were confirmed through a highly sensitive laboratory strategy (positive NS1 and/or IgM), agreed to follow-up visits, and gave informed consent. We used multivariate logistic regressions to assess the probability of clinical dengue being laboratory confirmed. To determine the factors associated with study enrollment, we analyzed the relationship of patient characteristics and month of screening to the likelihood of participation. To identify underrepresented groups, we compared the enrolled cohort to external data sources. Results The 150 clinical cases ranged from 1 to 85 years old. Most clinical cases (78%) were confirmed by a positive laboratory test, but only 19% of those confirmed enrolled in the cohort study. Women, who were half as likely to enroll as men, were underrepresented in the cohort. Conclusions The Thai physicians' clinical diagnoses at this rural district hospital had good agreement with laboratory diagnoses. By identifying underrepresented groups and disparities, future studies can ensure the creation of statistically representative cohorts to maximize their scientific value. This involves recruiting and retaining underrepresented groups in health research, such as women in this study. Promising strategies for meaningful inclusion include multi-site enrollment, offering in-home or virtual services, and providing in-kind benefits like childcare for underrepresented groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald S. Shepard
- Schneider Institutes for Health PolicyHeller School for Social Policy and Management, Brandeis UniversityWalthamMassachusettsUSA
| | - Priya Agarwal‐Harding
- Schneider Institutes for Health PolicyHeller School for Social Policy and Management, Brandeis UniversityWalthamMassachusettsUSA
| | - Sukhum Jiamton
- Research Centre for Health Economics and Evaluation, Faculty of Public HealthMahidol UniversityBangkokThailand
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj HospitalMahidol UniversityBangkokThailand
| | - Eduardo A. Undurraga
- Escuela de GobiernoPontificia Universidad Católica de ChileSantiagoChile
- Research Center for Integrated Disaster Risk Management (CIGIDEN)SantiagoChile
- CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars ProgramTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Sukhontha Kongsin
- Research Centre for Health Economics and Evaluation, Faculty of Public HealthMahidol UniversityBangkokThailand
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Santana YRT, Andrade DDBC, Barroso DH, Silva AV, Oliveira LFC, Timbó RV, Araújo DD, de Andrade RR, Pellegrini MA, de Carvalho FCA, Martins LPF, Gomes CM. The Effectiveness of Topical Dimethicone Together with a One Health Approach for the Control of Tungiasis in the Sanumás Communities, Yanomami Territory, Amazon Rainforest: A Real-World Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:489. [PMID: 37999608 PMCID: PMC10674387 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8110489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The success of tungiasis treatment is highly dependent on adequate environmental control. METHODS This is a real-world observational cohort study designed to monitor the effectiveness of topical dimethicone together with a One Health approach for the control of tungiasis in the Sanumás communities, Amazon rainforest, Brazil. We followed up on 562 indigenous people and 81 domestic dogs for 1.5 years in a 3-month interval. A new molecular method for large-scale soil evaluation was also tested. The control of tungiasis was independently conducted by the Brazilian Ministry of Health and comprised topical dimethicone application (NYDA®) for humans, single-dose oral afoxolaner for dogs, and in-house soil fumigation with fipronil. The main outcome was the occurrence of tungiasis after the use of topical dimethicone together with the One Health approach. RESULTS A total of 49 of the 562 indigenous people had active tungiasis at enrollment (8.72%). Only three cases of tungiasis resulted in active lesions after the use of topical dimethicone together with the One Health approach, with two cases of recurrence. From the 6-month follow-up and after, soil infestation was not detected. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the use of NYDA® together with animal and environmental interventions are effective measures for the control of tungiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yago Ranniere Teixeira Santana
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
- Secretaria Especial de Saúde Indígena (SESAI), Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, Brasília 70723-040, Brazil;
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Débora Dornelas Belchior Costa Andrade
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
| | - Daniel Holanda Barroso
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
| | - Andressa Vieira Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
| | | | - Renata Velôzo Timbó
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
| | | | - Rafael Rocha de Andrade
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
| | - Marcos Antonio Pellegrini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Boa Vista 69304-000, Brazil; (M.A.P.); (F.C.A.d.C.)
| | | | | | - Ciro Martins Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (D.D.B.C.A.); (D.H.B.); (A.V.S.); (R.V.T.); (R.R.d.A.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil;
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Baldoni NR, Quintino ND, Oliveira CDL, da Silva JLP, Ferreira AM, Ribeiro ALP, Sabino EC, Cardoso CS. Chagas disease and perceived quality of life: a cross-sectional study. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2023; 56:e02062023. [PMID: 37909506 PMCID: PMC10615335 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0206-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chagas disease (ChD) is a neglected tropical disease that is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and can negatively impact quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess and compare QoL between individuals with and without ChD. METHODS This cross-sectional study was performed within a concurrent cohort study (REDS). The participants were derived from two blood donation centers: São Paulo capital and Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Participants with ChD were identified in blood donations by serological diagnosis between 2008 and 2010, and those without ChD were donors with negative serology identified during the same period. QoL was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to compare sociodemographic and clinical characteristics between the groups, and mean, standard deviation, and beta regression were used to compare QoL. RESULTS In total, 611 individuals participated in the study (328 with ChD and 283 without ChD). Participants with ChD had lower QoL in the physical (p=0.02) and psychological (p<0.01) domains than did individuals without CD. CONCLUSIONS Individuals with ChD had worse QoL perceptions. These results provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of ChD on individuals' QoL, while also highlighting potential opportunities for improving the care and treatment of those affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayara Ragi Baldoni
- Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Departamento de Medicina, Divinópolis, MG, Brasil
- Universidade de Itaúna, Itaúna, MG, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Ariela Mota Ferreira
- Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Montes Claros, MG, Brasil
| | - Antonio Luiz Pinho Ribeiro
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade Medicina, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | | | - Clareci Silva Cardoso
- Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Departamento de Medicina, Divinópolis, MG, Brasil
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Yirgu R, Middleton J, Fekadu A, Cassell JA, Tesfaye A, Jones CI, Bremner S, Enbiale W, Davey G. Scabies in the Amhara region of northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study of prevalence, determinants, clinical presentation and community knowledge. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075038. [PMID: 37880172 PMCID: PMC10603513 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The WHO aims to prevent, eliminate or control neglected tropical diseases, including scabies, by 2030. However, limited epidemiological data presented a challenge to control efforts, especially in high burden countries. There was a major scabies outbreak in northern Ethiopia starting in 2015 and prevalence has since increased across much of the country. OBJECTIVE To estimate scabies prevalence, identify its predictors, and assess community perception of, and knowledge about, the infestation. DESIGN Population-based cross-sectional study. STUDY SETTING Ayu Guagusa district, Amhara region, northern Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS 1437 people who were members of 381 randomly selected households participated in the study. Five trained mid-level health workers clinically diagnosed people with scabies. OUTCOME MEASURES Clinically diagnosed scabies infestation. DATA ANALYSIS Multi-level logistic regression models were fitted to adjust for individual and household-level confounding variables, and identify predictors of scabies infestation. RESULTS Scabies prevalence was 13.4% (95% CI 11.8 to 15.5). Households of more than five people (adjusted OR (aOR)=3.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 10.2) were associated with increased odds of developing scabies, however, females had lower odds (aOR=0.5 95% CI 0.3 to 0.8). Scabietic lesions most frequently involved the trunk (62.0%), and vesicles were the most common types of lesions (67.7%). Two-thirds of adult study participants had heard about scabies and most obtained scabies related information from informal sources. Only 32% of cases sought care for scabies from any source. CONCLUSION Scabies prevalence was high, signifying the need for community-based control interventions. Host density and sex were important predictors of scabies. Despite the favourable attitude toward the effectiveness of scabies treatment, healthcare seeking was low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robel Yirgu
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Neglected Tropical Diseases, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jo Middleton
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Neglected Tropical Diseases, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
- Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Neglected Tropical Diseases, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jackie A Cassell
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Neglected Tropical Diseases, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
| | - Abraham Tesfaye
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Christopher Iain Jones
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
| | - Stephen Bremner
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Neglected Tropical Diseases, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
| | - Wendemagegn Enbiale
- College of Medical and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Gail Davey
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Neglected Tropical Diseases, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, UK
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18
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Rafael AF, Ferreira RA, Mota AF, Damasceno RF, Menezes ASDS, Lopes BT, de Paulo GL, Sabino EC, Ribeiro ALP, Quintino ND, Vieira TM. Overview of Chagas disease surveillance in an endemic region in Southeastern Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2023; 65:e51. [PMID: 37820247 PMCID: PMC10564458 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946202365051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease (CD) is a neglected disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. It has high morbidity and mortality rates and mainly affects socially vulnerable populations. This is a cross-sectional study, with retrospective and prospective data collection. Using questionnaires applied to environmental surveillance coordinators, we characterized the status of CD surveillance activities in municipalities endemic for the disease in Northern Minas Gerais State (MG) and Jequitinhonha Valley (Vale do Jequitinhonha). Moreover, we spatialized the vulnerability index for chronic CD in the study area. The population consisted of 22 environmental surveillance coordinators, active in 2020, from Northern MG and Jequitinhonha Valley, 21 municipalities included in the SaMi-Trop research project, and Montes Claros municipality. After applying the questionnaires to the coordinators, a descriptive analysis of the variables was performed. To characterize the active municipalities, the explanatory variables collected in the questionnaire were compared with the dichotomous variable. Bivariate descriptive analysis was performed. Finally, geoprocessing techniques were used to spatialize the data and prepare maps. Regarding the team of endemic combat agents (ECA), 90.9% reported the lack of a specific team for CD vector control actions. Of the 22 municipalities participating in this study, nine were active (41.1%). Only 25% (n=2) of active municipalities (9% of the municipalities studied) met the target of visiting 50% of households per year. Finally, 81.1% of the coordinators stated that in their municipality, they developed actions linked to primary health care (PHC). The implementation of CD surveillance activities weakened in the endemic region. Few municipalities have a surveillance team, with low regularity of active surveillance and noncompliance with the program's goal. The results suggest insufficient recording of activities in the information system, considering that there are municipalities that report performing the activities, but no production record was observed in the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Ferreira Rafael
- Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Raquel Aparecida Ferreira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto René Rachou, Grupo de Pesquisa Triatomíneos, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ariela Ferreira Mota
- Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Renata Fiúza Damasceno
- Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Gustavo Libério de Paulo
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Geociências, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Análise e Modelagem de Sistemas Ambientais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ester Cerdeira Sabino
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio Luiz Pinho Ribeiro
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das Clínicas Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Thallyta Maria Vieira
- Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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19
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Middleton J, Colthart G, Dem F, Elkins A, Fairhead J, Hazell RJ, Head MG, Inacio J, Jimbudo M, Jones CI, Laman M, MacGregor H, Novotny V, Peck M, Philip J, Paliau J, Pomat W, Stockdale JA, Sui S, Stewart AJ, Umari R, Walker SL, Cassell JA. Health service needs and perspectives of a rainforest conserving community in Papua New Guinea's Ramu lowlands: a combined clinical and rapid anthropological assessment with parallel treatment of urgent cases. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075946. [PMID: 37802618 PMCID: PMC10565268 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Determine community needs and perspectives as part of planning health service incorporation into Wanang Conservation Area, in support of locally driven sustainable development. DESIGN Clinical and rapid anthropological assessment (individual primary care assessments, key informant (KI) interviews, focus groups (FGs), ethnography) with treatment of urgent cases. SETTING Wanang (pop. c189), a rainforest community in Madang province, Papua New Guinea. PARTICIPANTS 129 villagers provided medical histories (54 females (f), 75 males (m); median 19 years, range 1 month to 73 years), 113 had clinical assessments (51f, 62m; median 18 years, range 1 month to 73 years). 26 ≥18 years participated in sex-stratified and age-stratified FGs (f<40 years; m<40 years; f>40 years; m>40 years). Five KIs were interviewed (1f, 4m). Daily ethnographic fieldnotes were recorded. RESULTS Of 113 examined, 11 were 'well' (a clinical impression based on declarations of no current illness, medical histories, conversation, no observed disease signs), 62 (30f, 32m) were treated urgently, 31 referred (15f, 16m), indicating considerable unmet need. FGs top-4 ranked health issues concorded with KI views, medical histories and clinical examinations. For example, ethnoclassifications of three ((A) 'malaria', (B) 'sotwin', (C) 'grile') translated to the five biomedical conditions diagnosed most ((A) malaria, 9 villagers; (B) upper respiratory infection, 25; lower respiratory infection, 10; tuberculosis, 9; (C) tinea imbricata, 15) and were highly represented in declared medical histories ((A) 75 participants, (B) 23, (C) 35). However, 29.2% of diagnoses (49/168) were limited to one or two people. Treatment approaches included plant medicines, stored pharmaceuticals, occasionally rituals. Travel to hospital/pharmacy was sometimes undertaken for severe/refractory disease. Service barriers included: no health patrols/accessible aid post, remote hospital, unfamiliarity with institutions and medicine costs. Service introduction priorities were: aid post, vaccinations, transport, perinatal/birth care and family planning. CONCLUSIONS This study enabled service planning and demonstrated a need sufficient to acquire funding to establish primary care. In doing so, it aided Wanang's community to develop sustainably, without sacrificing their forest home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Middleton
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Watson Building, University of Brighton, Falmer, UK
| | - Gavin Colthart
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Watson Building, University of Brighton, Falmer, UK
| | - Francesca Dem
- New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, Madang, Papua New Guinea
| | - Alice Elkins
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - James Fairhead
- Department of Anthropology, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Richard J Hazell
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Michael G Head
- Clinical Informatics Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Joao Inacio
- School of Applied Sciences, Cockcroft Building, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Mavis Jimbudo
- New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, Madang, Papua New Guinea
| | - Christopher Iain Jones
- Medical Statistics, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Watson Building, University of Brighton, Falmer, UK
| | - Moses Laman
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
| | - Hayley MacGregor
- Health and Nutrition Research Cluster, Institute of Development Studies, Falmer, UK
| | - Vojtech Novotny
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Mika Peck
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Jonah Philip
- New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, Madang, Papua New Guinea
- Wanang Conservation Area, Wanang, Papua New Guinea
| | - Jason Paliau
- New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, Madang, Papua New Guinea
- Department of Environmental Engineering & Renewable Energy, School of Environment and Climate Change, Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment, Kokopo, Papua New Guinea
| | - William Pomat
- PNG Institute of Medical Research, Goroka, Papua New Guinea
| | - Jessica A Stockdale
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Watson Building, University of Brighton, Falmer, UK
| | - Shen Sui
- New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, Madang, Papua New Guinea
| | - Alan J Stewart
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - Ruma Umari
- New Guinea Binatang Research Centre, Madang, Papua New Guinea
- Wanang Conservation Area, Wanang, Papua New Guinea
| | - Stephen L Walker
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, and Department of Dermatology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jackie A Cassell
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Watson Building, University of Brighton, Falmer, UK
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20
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Arslan Sehgal S, Tur Razia I, Kanwal A, Ahsan M, Adnan Tahir R, Sajid M, Saleem Khan M, Mukhtar N, Parveen G, Sajid M. Computational Advancement towards the Identification of Natural Inhibitors for Dengue Virus: A Brief Review. Comb Chem High Throughput Screen 2023; 26:CCHTS-EPUB-134909. [PMID: 37859315 DOI: 10.2174/0113862073244468230921050703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Viral infectious illnesses represent a severe hazard to human health due to their widespread incidence worldwide. Among these ailments, the dengue virus (DENV) infection stands out. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that DENV infection affects ~400 million people each year, with potentially fatal symptoms showing up in 1% of the cases. In several instances, academic and pharmaceutical researchers have conducted several pilot and clinical studies on a variety of topics, including viral epidemiology, structure and function analyses, infection source and route, therapeutic targets, vaccinations, and therapeutic drugs. Amongst Takeda, TAK-003, Sanofi, Dengvaxia®, and Butantan/NIH/Merck, Dengvaxia® (CYD-TDV) is the only licensed vaccination yet; however, the potential inhibitors are under development. The biology and evolution of DENVs are briefly discussed in this review, which also compiles the most recent studies on prospective antiviral targets and antiviral candidates. In conclusion, the triumphs and failures have influenced the development of anti-DENV medications, and the findings in this review article will stimulate more investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh Arslan Sehgal
- Islamia University of Bahawalpur Department of Bioinformatics Bahawalpur Pakistan
| | | | | | | | - Rana Adnan Tahir
- COMSATS University Islamabad Department of Biosciences Islamabad Pakistan
| | | | | | | | - Gulnaz Parveen
- Women University Swabi Department of Botany Swabi Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sajid
- University of Okara Department of Biotechnology Okara Pakistan
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21
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Bastos V, Pacheco V, Rodrigues ÉDL, Moraes CNS, Nóbile AL, Fonseca DLM, Souza KBS, do Vale FYN, Filgueiras IS, Schimke LF, Giil LM, Moll G, Cabral-Miranda G, Ochs HD, Vasconcelos PFDC, de Melo GD, Bourhy H, Casseb LMN, Cabral-Marques O. Neuroimmunology of rabies: New insights into an ancient disease. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29042. [PMID: 37885152 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Rabies is an ancient neuroinvasive viral (genus Lyssavirus, family Rhabdoviridae) disease affecting approximately 59,000 people worldwide. The central nervous system (CNS) is targeted, and rabies has a case fatality rate of almost 100% in humans and animals. Rabies is entirely preventable through proper vaccination, and thus, the highest incidence is typically observed in developing countries, mainly in Africa and Asia. However, there are still cases in European countries and the United States. Recently, demographic, increasing income levels, and the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have caused a massive raising in the animal population, enhancing the need for preventive measures (e.g., vaccination, surveillance, and animal control programs), postexposure prophylaxis, and a better understanding of rabies pathophysiology to identify therapeutic targets, since there is no effective treatment after the onset of clinical manifestations. Here, we review the neuroimmune biology and mechanisms of rabies. Its pathogenesis involves a complex and poorly understood modulation of immune and brain functions associated with metabolic, synaptic, and neuronal impairments, resulting in fatal outcomes without significant histopathological lesions in the CNS. In this context, the neuroimmunological and neurochemical aspects of excitatory/inhibitory signaling (e.g., GABA/glutamate crosstalk) are likely related to the clinical manifestations of rabies infection. Uncovering new links between immunopathological mechanisms and neurochemical imbalance will be essential to identify novel potential therapeutic targets to reduce rabies morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Bastos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Postgraduate Program of Physiopathology and Toxicology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers, PAHO Collaborating Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Arboviruses and other Zoonotic Viruses, Evandro Chagas Institute, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Pacheco
- Department of Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers, PAHO Collaborating Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Arboviruses and other Zoonotic Viruses, Evandro Chagas Institute, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Érika D L Rodrigues
- Department of Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers, PAHO Collaborating Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Arboviruses and other Zoonotic Viruses, Evandro Chagas Institute, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Cássia N S Moraes
- Department of Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers, PAHO Collaborating Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Arboviruses and other Zoonotic Viruses, Evandro Chagas Institute, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Adriel L Nóbile
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Postgraduate Program of Physiopathology and Toxicology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dennyson Leandro M Fonseca
- Interunit Postgraduate Program on Bioinformatics, Institute of Mathematics and Statistics (IME), University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kamilla B S Souza
- Department of Immunology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando Y N do Vale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Postgraduate Program of Physiopathology and Toxicology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Igor S Filgueiras
- Department of Immunology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lena F Schimke
- Department of Immunology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lasse M Giil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Guido Moll
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Charité University Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Hans D Ochs
- School of Medicine and Seattle Children's Research Institute, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Pedro F da Costa Vasconcelos
- Department of Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers, PAHO Collaborating Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Arboviruses and other Zoonotic Viruses, Evandro Chagas Institute, Ananindeua, Brazil
- Department of Pathology, University of the State of Pará, Belem, Brazil
| | - Guilherme D de Melo
- Lyssavirus Epidemiology and Neuropathology Unit, WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Rabies, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Hervé Bourhy
- Lyssavirus Epidemiology and Neuropathology Unit, WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Rabies, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Livia M N Casseb
- Department of Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers, PAHO Collaborating Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Arboviruses and other Zoonotic Viruses, Evandro Chagas Institute, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Otavio Cabral-Marques
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Postgraduate Program of Physiopathology and Toxicology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Immunology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy, Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Medical Investigation 29, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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22
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Linte G. Syphilis, blanchiment and French colonial medicine in sub-Saharan Africa during the interwar period. Med Hist 2023; 67:307-323. [PMID: 37828844 PMCID: PMC10616694 DOI: 10.1017/mdh.2023.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
During the interwar period, France put unprecedented efforts into public health measures targeting the colonised populations of sub-Saharan Africa. This investment in health was seen as crucial to ensuring the renewal of the African labour force needed for the economic development of the colonies. Syphilis, although less deadly than other endemic or epidemic diseases such as yellow fever, sleeping sickness and bubonic plague, was one of the most widespread infections in France's sub-Saharan colonies. This article demonstrates the contradictory nature of the colonial medicine approach to this disease during the interwar years. The negative impact of syphilis on population growth in Africa made it a major threat to the colonial project, and France put significant, costly investment into tackling the disease, focusing its efforts on maternal and child health. However, a closer look at syphilis control in sub-Saharan Africa reveals that the disease was also minimised as a public health issue, under-resourced and downplayed by colonial doctors and administrators. This neglect was embodied in the invention of a new colonial disease, 'exotic syphilis', which was presented as being a relatively benign skin disease among the African populations. It was also reflected in care practices, via a form of mass medicine based on the use of blanchiment, which consisted of knowingly limiting treatment to a superficial effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Linte
- Institute for Ethics, History, and the Humanities (iEH2), Centre médical universitaire, University of Geneva, 1 rue Michel Servet, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
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23
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Chandra A, Sreeganga SD, Rath N, Ramaprasad A. Healthcare Policies to Eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in India: A Roadmap. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:6842. [PMID: 37835112 PMCID: PMC10572727 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20196842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The need for systemic healthcare policies to systematically eliminate NTDs globally and in India has been stressed for more than two decades. Yet, the present policies and the research on them do not meet the need. We present an ontological framework, a research roadmap, and a policy brief to address the gap. The ontology clearly, concisely, and comprehensively represents the combinations of diseases, the objectives regarding the diseases, the entities to address them, the outcomes sought, and the potential policy instruments to invoke. The paper explicates the state of the-policies and state of the research on policies to eliminate NTDs in India. It highlights the significant gaps in the diseases covered, balance in the objectives, comprehensiveness of policies, portfolio of outcomes, and involvement of entities. Last, it presents a set of systemic policies congruent with the ontology to systematically address the gaps. The recommendations are aligned with the present research, policies, practices, and recommendations in India and of the WHO, UN agencies, and other similar bodies. The approach can be generalized to provide roadmaps for other countries facing a similar challenge and for other diseases of similar complexity. The roadmaps, with continuous feedback and learning, can help navigate the challenge efficiently and effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Chandra
- School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Chanakya University, Bengaluru 562110, India;
| | - S. D. Sreeganga
- Jindal School of Government and Public Policy, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat 131001, India;
| | - Nibedita Rath
- Open Source Pharma Foundation, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru 560012, India;
| | - Arkalgud Ramaprasad
- Information and Decision Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
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24
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Falcão EMM, Freitas DFS, Coutinho ZF, Quintella LP, Muniz MDM, Almeida-Paes R, Zancopé-Oliveira RM, de Macedo PM, do Valle ACF. Trends in the Epidemiological and Clinical Profile of Paracoccidioidomycosis in the Endemic Area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:946. [PMID: 37755054 PMCID: PMC10532664 DOI: 10.3390/jof9090946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a neglected endemic mycosis in Latin America. Most cases occur in Brazil. It is classified as PCM infection and PCM disease and is subdivided into chronic (adult type) or acute (juvenile type) disease, with the latter being less frequent and more severe. In 2016, we reported an increase in the numbers of patients diagnosed with acute PCM after a highway's construction. We conducted a study at INI-Fiocruz, a reference center for infectious diseases, including endemic mycoses, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, aiming to deepen the analysis of this new clinical and epidemiological profile of PCM. The authors developed a retrospective study including 170 patients diagnosed with PCM between 2010 and 2019. There was an increase in the number of atypical and severe forms, starting in 2014. In subsequent years, we detected a higher incidence of adverse outcomes with patients requiring more hospitalizations and an increased mortality rate. We estimate that PCM has become more severe throughout the Rio de Janeiro state, affecting a greater number of young individuals and leading to a greater number of and longer hospitalizations. Surveillance measures and close monitoring of future notification data in the state, with emphasis on children, adolescents, and young adults are necessary for a better understanding of the perpetuation of this public health challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Mastrangelo Marinho Falcão
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Infectious Dermatology, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.F.S.F.); (P.M.d.M.); (A.C.F.d.V.)
| | - Dayvison Francis Saraiva Freitas
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Infectious Dermatology, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.F.S.F.); (P.M.d.M.); (A.C.F.d.V.)
| | - Ziadir Francisco Coutinho
- Germano Sinval Faria School Health Center, Sergio Arouca National School of Public Health, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil;
| | - Leonardo Pereira Quintella
- Anatomical Pathology Service, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil;
| | - Mauro de Medeiros Muniz
- Mycology Laboratory, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (M.d.M.M.); (R.A.-P.); (R.M.Z.-O.)
| | - Rodrigo Almeida-Paes
- Mycology Laboratory, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (M.d.M.M.); (R.A.-P.); (R.M.Z.-O.)
| | - Rosely Maria Zancopé-Oliveira
- Mycology Laboratory, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (M.d.M.M.); (R.A.-P.); (R.M.Z.-O.)
| | - Priscila Marques de Macedo
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Infectious Dermatology, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.F.S.F.); (P.M.d.M.); (A.C.F.d.V.)
| | - Antonio Carlos Francesconi do Valle
- Laboratory of Clinical Research on Infectious Dermatology, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (D.F.S.F.); (P.M.d.M.); (A.C.F.d.V.)
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25
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Gomes DC, Medeiros TS, Alves Pereira EL, da Silva JFO, de Freitas Oliveira JW, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF, de Sousa da Silva M, da Silva-Júnior AA. From Benznidazole to New Drugs: Nanotechnology Contribution in Chagas Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13778. [PMID: 37762080 PMCID: PMC10530915 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. Benznidazole and nifurtimox are the two approved drugs for their treatment, but both drugs present side effects and efficacy problems, especially in the chronic phase of this disease. Therefore, new molecules have been tested with promising results aiming for strategic targeting action against T. cruzi. Several studies involve in vitro screening, but a considerable number of in vivo studies describe drug bioavailability increment, drug stability, toxicity assessment, and mainly the efficacy of new drugs and formulations. In this context, new drug delivery systems, such as nanotechnology systems, have been developed for these purposes. Some nanocarriers are able to interact with the immune system of the vertebrate host, modulating the immune response to the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms. In this overview of nanotechnology-based delivery strategies for established and new antichagasic agents, different strategies, and limitations of a wide class of nanocarriers are explored, as new perspectives in the treatment and monitoring of Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Cavalcante Gomes
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (D.C.G.); (T.S.M.); (E.L.A.P.); (J.F.O.d.S.); (M.d.F.F.-P.)
| | - Thayse Silva Medeiros
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (D.C.G.); (T.S.M.); (E.L.A.P.); (J.F.O.d.S.); (M.d.F.F.-P.)
| | - Eron Lincoln Alves Pereira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (D.C.G.); (T.S.M.); (E.L.A.P.); (J.F.O.d.S.); (M.d.F.F.-P.)
| | - João Felipe Oliveira da Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (D.C.G.); (T.S.M.); (E.L.A.P.); (J.F.O.d.S.); (M.d.F.F.-P.)
| | - Johny W. de Freitas Oliveira
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Centre of Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (J.W.d.F.O.); (M.d.S.d.S.)
| | - Matheus de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (D.C.G.); (T.S.M.); (E.L.A.P.); (J.F.O.d.S.); (M.d.F.F.-P.)
| | - Marcelo de Sousa da Silva
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Centre of Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (J.W.d.F.O.); (M.d.S.d.S.)
| | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte-UFRN, Natal 59012-570, Brazil; (D.C.G.); (T.S.M.); (E.L.A.P.); (J.F.O.d.S.); (M.d.F.F.-P.)
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Sikarwar M, Mishra VS, Tiwari P, Gupta M, Dholpuria S, Gupta PK. Polyester nanomedicines for visceral leishmaniasis treatment. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2023; 18:1515-1518. [PMID: 37724503 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2023-0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Tweetable abstract Unveiling the power of polyester nanomedicines in revolutionizing visceral leishmaniasis treatment with enhanced drug loading and precise targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohini Sikarwar
- Department of Life Sciences, Sharda School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
- Centre for Development of Biomaterials, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
| | - Vaishali Sunil Mishra
- Department of Life Sciences, Sharda School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
- Centre for Development of Biomaterials, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
| | - Preeti Tiwari
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Madhu Gupta
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research University, Pushp Vihar, Sector 3, MB Road, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Sunny Dholpuria
- Department of Life Sciences, JC Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, Haryana, 121006, India
| | - Piyush Kumar Gupta
- Department of Life Sciences, Sharda School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
- Centre for Development of Biomaterials, Sharda University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, 201310, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era Deemed to be University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
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Venkatraman V. FP-MAP: an extensive library of fingerprint-based molecular activity prediction tools. Front Chem 2023; 11:1239467. [PMID: 37649967 PMCID: PMC10462816 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1239467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Discovering new drugs for disease treatment is challenging, requiring a multidisciplinary effort as well as time, and resources. With a view to improving hit discovery and lead compound identification, machine learning (ML) approaches are being increasingly used in the decision-making process. Although a number of ML-based studies have been published, most studies only report fragments of the wider range of bioactivities wherein each model typically focuses on a particular disease. This study introduces FP-MAP, an extensive atlas of fingerprint-based prediction models that covers a diverse range of activities including neglected tropical diseases (caused by viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens) as well as other targets implicated in diseases such as Alzheimer's. To arrive at the best predictive models, performance of ≈4,000 classification/regression models were evaluated on different bioactivity data sets using 12 different molecular fingerprints. The best performing models that achieved test set AUC values of 0.62-0.99 have been integrated into an easy-to-use graphical user interface that can be downloaded from https://gitlab.com/vishsoft/fpmap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwesh Venkatraman
- Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Suñer C, John LN, Houinei W, Ubals M, Ouchi D, Alemany A, Galván-Casas C, Marks M, Mitjà O, Vall-Mayans M, Beiras CG. Rapid Serologic Test for Diagnosis of Yaws in Patients with Suspicious Skin Ulcers. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1682-1684. [PMID: 37486318 PMCID: PMC10370868 DOI: 10.3201/eid2908.230608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The Chembio DPP (Dual Path Platform) Syphilis Screen & Confirm kit (https://chembio.com) is a rapid serologic test that can be used to diagnose yaws. We evaluated its capacity to detect patients with ulcers that tested PCR positive for Treponema pallidum subsp. pertenue. DPP detected 84% of ulcers that were positive by PCR.
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Santana YRT, Oliveira LFC, Lima GM, Timbó RV, Pires EM, de Brito AR, Martins ACT, Magalhães VS, de Faria ACM, Urdapilleta AAA, Roger I, de Andrade RR, Martins LPF, Pellegrini M, de Carvalho FCA, Araújo DD, Barroso DH, Garcia CN, Feldmeier H, Gomes CM. Tungiasis in the Sanumás Amerindians in the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil: Prevalence, Intensity and Morbidity. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:386. [PMID: 37624324 PMCID: PMC10459173 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tungiasis is a disease associated with extreme poverty. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of tungiasis in six different settlements of the Sanumás indigenous community in a remote area in the Auaris region, Yanomami territory, Brazil. METHODS We conducted an observational study to detect clinical and epidemiological factors associated with tungiasis using a cross-sectional strategy and multivariate logistic regression. Soil analysis was performed by visual and microscopic methods. RESULTS We examined 555 persons, 45 of whom had active tungiasis; 18 cases were classified as mild, 16 as moderate and 11 as severe. The disease was significantly more prevalent in children than in adults (odds ratio (OR) 15.77; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.34-67.91; p < 0.001). Soil infestation was significantly related to the occurrence of human tungiasis (OR = 12.29; 95% CI = 3.75-45.88). The sex and GPS location of the houses were not related to the occurrence of tungiasis. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that tungiasis is an important problem in the Sanumás community, especially for children. We suggest that interruption of the off-host transmission cycle, together with regular treatment [human and animal interventions], must be prioritized to achieve control of tungiasis in indigenous populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yago Ranniere Teixeira Santana
- Secretaria Especial de Saúde Indígena (SESAI), Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (L.F.C.O.); (E.M.P.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil
| | - Lucas Felipe Carvalho Oliveira
- Secretaria Especial de Saúde Indígena (SESAI), Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (L.F.C.O.); (E.M.P.)
| | - Gabriela Mafra Lima
- Distrito Sanitário Especial Indígena (DSEI) Yanomami, Boa Vista 69.301-08, Brazil;
| | - Renata Velôzo Timbó
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
| | - Eliane Mateus Pires
- Secretaria Especial de Saúde Indígena (SESAI), Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (Y.R.T.S.); (L.F.C.O.); (E.M.P.)
| | - Amanda Ramos de Brito
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Boa Vista 69.310-000, Brazil; (A.R.d.B.); (F.C.A.d.C.)
| | - Ana Carolina Tardin Martins
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
| | - Vivyanne Santiago Magalhães
- Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, do Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, Brasília 70.723-040, Brazil; (V.S.M.); (A.C.M.d.F.)
| | - Ana Carolina Mota de Faria
- Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, do Ministério da Saúde do Brasil, Brasília 70.723-040, Brazil; (V.S.M.); (A.C.M.d.F.)
| | | | - Isabelle Roger
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
| | - Rafael Rocha de Andrade
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
| | | | - Marcos Pellegrini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Boa Vista 69.310-000, Brazil; (A.R.d.B.); (F.C.A.d.C.)
| | | | | | - Daniel Holanda Barroso
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
| | - Carina Nogueira Garcia
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
| | - Hermann Feldmeier
- Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité—University Medicine Berlin, D-14195 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Ciro Martins Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Médicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil; (R.V.T.); (A.C.T.M.); (I.R.); (R.R.d.A.); (D.H.B.); (C.N.G.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70.910-900, Brazil
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Makingi G, Ngowi B, Mkupasi E, Wilson C, Winkler AS, Nzalawahe J, Ngowi H. Community Health-Education Intervention Trial against Human Taenia solium Taeniasis/Cysticercosis in Central and Southern Zones of Tanzania. Pathogens 2023; 12:955. [PMID: 37513802 PMCID: PMC10386120 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12070955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor knowledge of human T. solium taeniasis/cysticercosis and insufficient sanitary and hygienic practices have been associated with the persistence of human T. solium infections in endemic areas. Community health education intervention measures were implemented in 42 villages of Kongwa and Songwe Districts to increase knowledge, improve good practices against infection and reduce incidences of human cysticercosis transmission using a health education package. The health education package comprised of leaflet, poster and a booklet The 42 villages were allocated into intervention group and control group, and each group consisted of 21 villages. Baseline and post-intervention information on social demography, knowledge, safe practices and incidences of human cysticercosis was collected from both village groups. The impact of the intervention was evaluated by comparing changes in knowledge, preventive practices related to human T. solium infections and the cumulative incidence of human cysticercosis between intervention and control villages. There was no significant difference in mean knowledge scores and preventive practice mean scores between the control and intervention groups at baseline. However, there were significantly higher knowledge mean scores in the intervention group compared to the control group at one year post-intervention (2.06 ± 1.45 vs. 0.94 ± 1.18, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the mean practice scores between the intervention and the control group at one year post-intervention (2.49 ± 1.13 vs. 2.40 ± 1.13, p = 0.31). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of human T. solium cysticercosis between the intervention and the control group at the baseline (1.4% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.97) by Ag-Elisa, and at one year post-intervention the cumulative incidence of human cysticercosis was 1.9 and 1.2 per cent in the control and intervention group, respectively. There was no significant difference in the cumulative incidence of human cysticercosis between the intervention and the control group at one year post-intervention (p > 0.05). Community health-education intervention is effective at improving the knowledge of human T. solium infections. The improvement in preventive practices and reduction in incidences of human cysticercosis are a gradual process, they may require sanitary and hygienic improvement and more time after the intervention to see improved changes. The study recommends a sustainable public health education on T. solium infections using the health education package through one health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Makingi
- The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3021, Tanzania
| | - Bernard Ngowi
- Muhimbili Medical Research Centre, National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam P.O. Box 3436, Tanzania
- Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya P.O. Box 608, Tanzania
| | - Ernatus Mkupasi
- The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3021, Tanzania
| | - Christina Wilson
- The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3021, Tanzania
| | - Andrea Sylvia Winkler
- Center for Global Health, Department of Neurology, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, 0373 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jahashi Nzalawahe
- The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3021, Tanzania
| | - Helena Ngowi
- The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3021, Tanzania
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Filho CSMB, de Menezes RRPPB, Magalhães EP, Castillo YP, Martins AMC, de Sousa DP. Piplartine-Inspired 3,4,5-Trimethoxycinnamates: Trypanocidal, Mechanism of Action, and In Silico Evaluation. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28114512. [PMID: 37298988 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease (CD) is one of the main neglected tropical diseases that promote relevant socioeconomic impacts in several countries. The therapeutic options for the treatment of CD are limited, and parasite resistance has been reported. Piplartine is a phenylpropanoid imide that has diverse biological activities, including trypanocidal action. Thus, the objective of the present work was to prepare a collection of thirteen esters analogous to piplartine (1-13) and evaluate their trypanocidal activity against Trypanosoma cruzi. Of the tested analogues, compound 11 ((E)-furan-2-ylmethyl 3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)acrylate) showed good activity with IC50 values = 28.21 ± 5.34 μM and 47.02 ± 8.70 μM, against the epimastigote and trypomastigote forms, respectively. In addition, it showed a high rate of selectivity to the parasite. The trypanocidal mechanism of action occurs through the induction of oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage. In addition, scanning electron microscopy showed the formation of pores and leakage of cytoplasmic content. Molecular docking indicated that 11 probably produces a trypanocidal effect through a multi-target mechanism, including affinity with proteins CRK1, MPK13, GSK3B, AKR, UCE-1, and UCE-2, which are important for the survival of the parasite. Therefore, the results suggest chemical characteristics that can serve for the development of new trypanocidal prototypes for researching drugs against Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos S M B Filho
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Ramon R P P B de Menezes
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60020-181, CE, Brazil
| | - Emanuel P Magalhães
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60020-181, CE, Brazil
| | - Yunierkis P Castillo
- Escuela de Ciencias Físicas y Matemáticas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito 170125, Ecuador
| | - Alice M C Martins
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60020-181, CE, Brazil
| | - Damião P de Sousa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
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de Arruda JAA, Tomo S, Cunha JLS, Guevara JR, Martínez I, Reyes O, Bracho V, Sanchez C, de Andrade BAB, Villarroel-Dorrego M. Mucosal Leishmaniasis of the lip: Report of an Exuberant case in a Young man. Head Neck Pathol 2023; 17:540-545. [PMID: 36346574 PMCID: PMC10293522 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-022-01497-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is a tropical disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. Mucosal leishmaniasis has been described as secondary to the cutaneous form; however, isolated mucosal involvement can also occur. Specifically, mucosal leishmaniasis of the lip is poorly described and its diagnosis challenges clinicians. METHODS We herein report a case of mucosal leishmaniasis affecting the lower lip without cutaneous involvement in a 20-year-old Venezuelan man. The patient had no relevant past medical history. Clinically, a mass-like lesion with ulcerations and crusts was observed. RESULTS Microscopically, the lesion was composed of granulomatous inflammation along with macrophages containing intracytoplasmic inclusions similar to round-shaped Leishmania. The species Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis was confirmed. Treatment with meglumine antimonate was effective. The lesion healed satisfactorily, and no side effects or recurrences were observed. CONCLUSION Clinicians should be aware of isolated forms of mucosal leishmaniasis of the lip, even in cases where the cutaneous lesion is undetected or clinically manifests as self-limiting. Knowing the endemic areas in the scenario of the dynamics of the ecoepidemiology of leishmaniasis is also essential for surveillance and counselling of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alcides Almeida de Arruda
- Department of Oral Surgery, Pathology and Clinical Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Saygo Tomo
- Department of Stomatology, A.C.Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - John Lennon Silva Cunha
- Department of Oral Diagnosis, Piracicaba Dental School, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - José Ramón Guevara
- National Programme of Leishmaniasis, Biomedicine Institute “Dr. Jacinto Convit”, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Idalina Martínez
- National Programme of Leishmaniasis, Biomedicine Institute “Dr. Jacinto Convit”, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Oscar Reyes
- National Programme of Leishmaniasis, Biomedicine Institute “Dr. Jacinto Convit”, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Verónica Bracho
- National Programme of Leishmaniasis, Biomedicine Institute “Dr. Jacinto Convit”, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Carlos Sanchez
- Oral Medicine, Dental School, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Bruno Augusto Benevenuto de Andrade
- Department of Oral Diagnosis and Pathology, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, R. Rodolpho Paulo Rocco, n. 325, 1st floor, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
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Duschak VG, Paniz Mondolfi AE, Benaim G. Editorial: Chagas disease novel drug targets and treatments. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1199715. [PMID: 37305423 PMCID: PMC10250960 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1199715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vilma G. Duschak
- National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET) and National Institute of Parasitology (INP), “Dr.Mario Fatala Chaben”, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios de Institutos de Salud (ANLIS)-Malbrán, National Health Department, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (CABA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alberto E. Paniz Mondolfi
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
- Incubadora Venezolana de la Ciencia (IVC), Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas IDB, Barquisimeto, Venezuela
| | - Gustavo Benaim
- Unidad de Señalización Celular y Bioquímica de Parásitos, Instituto de Estudios Avanzados (IDEA), Caracas, Venezuela
- Instituto de Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas, Venezuela
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Kelly-Hope LA, Harding-Esch EM, Willems J, Ahmed F, Sanders AM. Conflict-climate-displacement: a cross-sectional ecological study determining the burden, risk and need for strategies for neglected tropical disease programmes in Africa. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071557. [PMID: 37197807 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-071557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Complex challenges such as political instability, climate change and population displacement are increasing threats to national disease control, elimination and eradication programmes. The objective of this study was to determine the burden and risk of conflict-related and climate-related internal displacements and the need for strategies for countries endemic with neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). DESIGN, SETTING AND OUTCOME MEASURES A cross-sectional ecological study was conducted including countries that are endemic with at least one of five NTDs requiring preventive chemotherapy in the African region. For each country, the number of NTDs, population size and the number and rate per 100 000 of conflict-related and natural disaster-related internal displacements reported in 2021 were classified into high and low categories and used in unison to stratify and map the burden and risk. RESULTS This analysis identified 45 NTD-endemic countries; 8 countries were co-endemic with 4 or 5 diseases and had populations classified as 'high' totalling >619 million people. We found 32 endemic countries had data on internal displacements related to conflict and disasters (n=16), disasters only (n=15) or conflict only (n=1). Six countries had both high conflict-related and disaster-related internal displacement numbers totalling >10.8 million people, and five countries had combined high conflict-related and disaster-related internal displacement rates, ranging from 770.8 to 7088.1 per 100 000 population. Weather-related hazards were the main cause of natural disaster-related displacements, predominately floods. CONCLUSIONS This paper presents a risk stratified approach to better understand the potential impact of these complex intersecting challenges. We advocate for a 'call to action' to encourage national and international stakeholders to further develop, implement and evaluate strategies to better assess NTD endemicity, and deliver interventions, in areas at risk of, or experiencing, conflict and climate disasters, in order to help meet the national targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise A Kelly-Hope
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Johan Willems
- CBM Christoffel-Blindenmission Christian Blind Mission e.V, Bensheim, Germany
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de Oliveira H, Bezerra BT, Rodrigues ML. Antifungal Development and the Urgency of Minimizing the Impact of Fungal Diseases on Public Health. ACS Bio Med Chem Au 2023; 3:137-146. [PMID: 37101810 PMCID: PMC10125384 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomedchemau.2c00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections are a major public health problem resulting from the lack of public policies addressing these diseases, toxic and/or expensive therapeutic tools, scarce diagnostic tests, and unavailable vaccines. In this Perspective, we discuss the need for novel antifungal alternatives, highlighting new initiatives based on drug repurposing and the development of novel antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bárbara T. Bezerra
- Instituto
Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba81310-020, Brazil
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Instituto
Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba81310-020, Brazil
- Instituto
de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro21941-902, Brazil
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da Silva MLFI, de Farias SJM, Silva APDSC, Rodrigues MOS, de Oliveira ECA. Spatial patterns of new leprosy cases in a northeastern state of Brazil, 2011-2021. Rev Bras Epidemiol 2023; 26:e230014. [PMID: 36820751 PMCID: PMC9949489 DOI: 10.1590/1980-549720230014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the spatial patterns of leprosy in Pernambuco from 2011 to 2021. METHODS This is an ecological epidemiological study, carried out with data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System, based on new cases of leprosy among inhabitants of Pernambuco, between 2011-2021. An empirical Bayesian analysis of local and spatial dependence was performed with the global and local Moran indices. RESULTS 25,008 new cases of leprosy were registered with an annual case detection rate in the general population of 16.51 cases/100,000 inhabitants - which is considered high. Among those younger than 15 years of age, there were 5.16 cases/100,000 inhabitants (high) and 0.89/100,000 inhabitants with degree II of physical disability (low); there were also many high-risk cases with an overall Moran index of 0.33 (p<0.001), active transmission (0.26; p<0.001), and subsequent diagnosis of the disease (0.12; p<0.006), as well as distribution in macro-region 1 and macro-region 4. CONCLUSION There was a heterogeneous spatial distribution in the state, showing two overviews, the first being the presence of municipalities with high risk of disease transmission and the second with clusters of silent municipalities, reinforcing the character of leprosy neglect as a major public health problem. This study brings reflections for leprosy control actions, due to the identification of priority areas to combat this disease in Pernambuco.
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Carvalho CDP, Luz JGG, de Carvalho AG, Carvalho RDP, Pires HHR, Dias JVL. "It's not all about the disease": do treatment and socioeconomic status affect perceived impact and satisfaction of patients treated for cutaneous leishmaniasis? Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2023; 56:e0253. [PMID: 36820654 PMCID: PMC9957146 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0253-2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This cross-sectional study compared the general impact of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and patient satisfaction with treatment and health services as perceived by those undergoing different therapeutic regimens in an endemic region in South-Eastern Brazil. We also investigated the factors associated with both outcomes (general impact and satisfaction). METHODS We included 84 patients with CL treated between 2018 and 2019 with intravenous meglumine antimoniate, liposomal amphotericin B, or intralesional meglumine antimoniate therapy. Data were collected through interviews that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidity status, access and use of health services for CL diagnosis and treatment, and the items of the Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Impact Questionnaire (CLIQ). The CLIQ is a psychometric questionnaire previously validated to assess the general impact of CL on patient satisfaction with treatment and health services. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with high CL impact and low patient satisfaction. RESULTS The general impact of CL and patient satisfaction with treatment and health services were not significantly associated with the therapeutic regimen. High CL impact was associated with low family income (odds ratio [OR]:3.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.0-10.3), occurrence of complications/adverse effects during treatment (OR:7.7; 95%CI:2.4-25.6), and additional costs during diagnosis and/or treatment (OR:12.1; 95% CI:2.8-52.4). Low satisfaction was associated with high disease impact (OR: 9.5; 95% CI:2.7-33.9), occurrence of complications/adverse effects (OR:4.2; 95% CI:1.3-13.0), and high family income (OR:7.1; 95%CI:1.7-28.2). CONCLUSIONS Our data support public health policies aimed at reducing the impact of CL and its treatment as well as the use of therapy with fewer adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Di Pietro Carvalho
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Sociedade e Ambiente, Diamantina, MG, Brasil.,Secretaria Estadual de Saúde, Superintendência Regional de Saúde, Diamantina, MG, Brasil
| | | | | | - Renata Di Pietro Carvalho
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Sociedade e Ambiente, Diamantina, MG, Brasil
| | - Herton Helder Rocha Pires
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Sociedade e Ambiente, Diamantina, MG, Brasil
| | - João Victor Leite Dias
- Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde, Sociedade e Ambiente, Diamantina, MG, Brasil.,Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Faculdade de Medicina do Mucuri, Teófilo Otoni, MG, Brasil
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Lobo LE, João FM, Frota MZM, Santos M. Deforming vegetative nodules in a woman from Amazon. JAAD Case Rep 2023; 32:113-116. [PMID: 36876038 PMCID: PMC9975468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2022.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Monica Santos
- Alfredo da Matta Foundation, Amazon State University
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Guimarães-E-Silva AS, de Sousa Oliveira R, Pimentel KBA, Ribeiro da Silva RC, Rodrigues BL, Rebêlo JMM, Pinheiro VCS. Spatiotemporal Distribution of Leishmaniasis in an Endemic Area of Northeast Brazil: Implications for Intervention Actions. J Med Entomol 2023; 60:165-172. [PMID: 36287635 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjac123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution of leishmaniases, and contribute to the knowledge of their epidemiological dynamics from 2007 to 2017 in the municipality of Caxias, Maranhão, Northeast Brazil. Data on American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) and human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) were obtained in the Epidemiological Surveillance Sector of Caxias, while data on canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) were obtained in the Zoonoses Surveillance Unit. For data analysis and spatial representation of leishmaniasis cases, the geoprocessing of the data was performed, and the geometric features of the state of Maranhão, Caxias, and the disease registration sites were obtained from the shapefile database of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Geostatistics was used to create maps based on the Kernel density method, starting from the points, producing a raster file for each case with several data frames, allowing the instantaneous comparison of the phenomena. During the study period, ATL, HVL, and CVL were reported in Caxias, accounting for 114,304 and 8,498 cases, respectively. The geoprocessing analysis showed that leishmaniasis is widely distributed in the urban area of Caxias. However, there are risk areas for the transmission of these diseases to humans and dogs, associated with deforestation and urban expansion, and may vary over time. Preventive measures must focus on risk areas, including conservation efforts and urban planning, in order to reduce the transmission of leishmaniases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Suely Guimarães-E-Silva
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Laboratório de Entomologia Médica (LABEM), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | - Romário de Sousa Oliveira
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Laboratório de Entomologia Médica (LABEM), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | | | - Rosa Cristina Ribeiro da Silva
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Laboratório de Entomologia Médica (LABEM), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
| | - Bruno Leite Rodrigues
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública da Universidade de São Paulo - (FSP/USP), Pós-graduação em Saúde Pública, Avenida Doutor Arnaldo, 715, São Paulo, 01246-904, Brazil
| | - José Manuel Macário Rebêlo
- Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Laboratório de Entomologia e Vetores, Avenida dos Portugueses, 1966, Bacanga, São Luís, Maranhão, 65080-805, Brazil
| | - Valéria Cristina Soares Pinheiro
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Programa de Biodiversidade, Ambiente e Saúde (PPGBAS), Laboratório de Entomologia Médica (LABEM), Praça Duque de Caxias, s/n, Morro do Alecrim, Caxias, Maranhão, 65604-380, Brazil
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Metz DCG, Turner AV, Nelson AP, Hechinger RF. Potential for Emergence of Foodborne Trematodiases Transmitted by an Introduced Snail (Melanoides tuberculata) in California and Elsewhere in the United States. J Infect Dis 2023; 227:183-192. [PMID: 36214840 PMCID: PMC10202430 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
We document that 3 human-infectious trematodes and their introduced first intermediate host snail (Melanoides tuberculata) are widespread throughout southern California. We surveyed 41 fishing localities, 19 of which harbored snails infected with zoonotic trematodes. Two of the parasites, Haplorchis pumilio and Centrocestus formosanus, are fishborne intestinal trematodes recognized as being important human pathogens in other areas of the world; the third, Philophthalmus gralli, can infect the human eye. An additional 5 species detected infecting M. tuberculata are likely of little direct threat to people; however, they may be recently introduced to the Americas, highlighting the risk that additional pathogenic trematodes transmitted by the snail in its native range could be introduced to the United States. The current, possible human-infection risk in California clarifies the need to consider the introduced snail and its parasites from a public health perspective anywhere in the United States the snail has been introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel C G Metz
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Andrew V Turner
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Alexandria P Nelson
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Ryan F Hechinger
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Law CTY, Nivesvivat T, Xiong Q, Kulkeaw K, Shi L, Ruenchit P, Suwanpakdee D, Suwanpakdee P, Tongkrajang N, Sarasombath PT, Tsui SKW. Mitochondrial genome diversity of Balamuthia mandrillaris revealed by a fatal case of granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1162963. [PMID: 37213512 PMCID: PMC10196457 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1162963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Balamuthia (B.) mandrillaris is a free-living amoeba that can cause rare yet fatal granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE). However, efficacious treatment for GAE is currently unavailable, especially when genomic studies on B. mandrillaris are limited. Methods In this study, B. mandrillaris strain KM-20 was isolated from the brain tissue of a GAE patient, and its mitochondrial genome was de novo assembled using high-coverage Nanopore long reads and Illumina short reads. Results and Discussion Phylogenetic and comparative analyses revealed a range of diversification in the mitochondrial genome of KM-20 and nine other B. mandrillaris strains. According to the mitochondrial genome alignment, one of the most variable regions was observed in the ribosomal protein S3 (rps3), which was caused by an array of novel protein tandem repeats. The repeating units in the rps3 protein tandem region present significant copy number variations (CNVs) among B. mandrillaris strains and suggest KM-20 as the most divergent strain for its highly variable sequence and highest copy number in rps3. Moreover, mitochondrial heteroplasmy was observed in strain V039, and two genotypes of rps3 are caused by the CNVs in the tandem repeats. Taken together, the copy number and sequence variations of the protein tandem repeats enable rps3 to be a perfect target for clinical genotyping assay for B. mandrillaris. The mitochondrial genome diversity of B. mandrillaris paves the way to investigate the phylogeny and diversification of pathogenic amoebae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherie Tsz-Yiu Law
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Bioinformatics Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Thirapa Nivesvivat
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Qing Xiong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Bioinformatics Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kasem Kulkeaw
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ling Shi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Bioinformatics Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pichet Ruenchit
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Detchvijitr Suwanpakdee
- Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Piradee Suwanpakdee
- Neurology Division, Department of Pediatrics, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nongnat Tongkrajang
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patsharaporn T. Sarasombath
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Patsharaporn T. Sarasombath, ;
| | - Stephen Kwok-Wing Tsui
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Bioinformatics Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Stephen Kwok-Wing Tsui,
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Rogier EW, Giorgi E, Tetteh K, Sepúlveda N. Editorial: Current research on serological analyses of infectious diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1154584. [PMID: 36873877 PMCID: PMC9982155 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1154584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eric William Rogier
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Emanuele Giorgi
- Centre for Health Informatics, Computing, and Statistics, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Tetteh
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nuno Sepúlveda
- Department of Mathematics & Information Science, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland.,Centro de Estatística e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa (CEAUL), Lisbon, Portugal
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[Synthesis of evidence and recommendations: guideline for the treatment of leishmaniasis in the Region of the AmericasSíntese de evidências e recomendações: diretrizes para o tratamento das leishmanioses na Região das Américas]. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2023; 47:e43. [PMID: 37123638 PMCID: PMC10135436 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2023.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Leishmaniasis continues to be a neglected infectious disease of great importance, mainly affecting the poorest people with the least access to health services. In the Americas, it is a public health problem due to its magnitude, wide geographical distribution, and levels of morbidity and mortality. Objective Summarize the recommendations included in Guideline for the Treatment of Leishmaniasis in the Region of the Americas, published by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization, in order to provide adequate management of patients diagnosed with leishmaniasis, reduce clinical complications and deaths caused by drug toxicity, reduce the lethality of visceral leishmaniasis, and address key aspects of implementation of the guidelines. Methods The guideline and its recommendations were summarized and a systematic search was carried out in PubMed, Lilacs, Health Systems Evidence, Epistemonikos, and gray literature for other studies conducted in the Region of the Americas, in order to identify barriers, facilitators, and implementation strategies. Results Recommendations are presented, addressing the pharmacological treatment of patients diagnosed with cutaneous, mucosal, and visceral leishmaniasis in the Americas, as well as case management and secondary prophylaxis in patients coinfected with visceral leishmaniasis and HIV, and patients with other diseases that cause immunosuppression. Conclusions The recommendations aim to provide the government entities and health professionals that care for leishmaniasis patients in the Americas with knowledge on management of the disease. Barriers are discussed (related to human resources, knowledge of guidelines, inputs, costs, access, and patient access), as well as facilitators and strategies to support implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Organización Panamericana de la Salud
- Organización Panamericana de la SaludWashington, D.C.Estados Unidos de AméricaOrganización Panamericana de la Salud, Washington, D.C., Estados Unidos de América.
- Ludovic Reveiz,
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Oliveira LM, Gonçalves DB, Cabral LDCR, Bernardino MRA, Feitoza PVS. Botulism in the Brazilian Amazon: a life-threatening disease in a neglected population. Arq Neuropsiquiatr 2022; 80:1227-1232. [PMID: 36580960 PMCID: PMC9800156 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1758651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Botulism is a rare and potentially fatal neuroparalytic syndrome caused by the gram-positive anaerobe spore-forming bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The microorganism produces a neurotoxin that inhibits the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, clinically leading to a myasthenic syndrome. OBJECTIVE To describe the recent outbreak of botulism cases and its demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics. METHODS We report 4 patients with botulism in the recent outbreak occurred between 2017 and 2019 in the state of Amazon. RESULTS Out of four patients with botulism, three contracted it from eating contaminated food and one had wound botulism. We emphasize the excellent clinical outcome of the different disease presentations in our case series. CONCLUSION The temporal proximity of these reports may suggest a new rise in the number of cases in the upcoming years. A possible hypothesis is that the rarity of the disease decreased the awareness regarding the primary prevention or even a diagnosis by an untrained physician.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marília Rosa Abtibol Bernardino
- Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Faculdade de Medicina, Manaus AM, Brazil.,Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus AM, Brazil.
| | - Pablo Vinícius Silveira Feitoza
- Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Faculdade de Medicina, Manaus AM, Brazil.,Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus AM, Brazil.,Address for correspondence Pablo Vinícius Silveira Feitoza
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dos Santos DB, Lemos JA, Miranda SEM, Di Filippo LD, Duarte JL, Ferreira LAM, Barros ALB, Oliveira AEMFM. Current Applications of Plant-Based Drug Delivery Nano Systems for Leishmaniasis Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2339. [PMID: 36365157 PMCID: PMC9695113 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmania is a trypanosomatid that causes leishmaniasis. It is transmitted to vertebrate hosts during the blood meal of phlebotomine sandflies. The clinical manifestations of the disease are associated with several factors, such as the Leishmania species, virulence and pathogenicity, the host-parasite relationship, and the host's immune system. Although its causative agents have been known and studied for decades, there have been few advances in the chemotherapy of leishmaniasis. The urgency of more selective and less toxic alternatives for the treatment of leishmaniasis leads to research focused on the study of new pharmaceuticals, improvement of existing drugs, and new routes of drug administration. Natural resources of plant origin are promising sources of bioactive substances, and the use of ethnopharmacology and folk medicine leads to interest in studying new medications from phytocomplexes. However, the intrinsic low water solubility of plant derivatives is an obstacle to developing a therapeutic product. Nanotechnology could help overcome these obstacles by improving the availability of common substances in water. To contribute to this scenario, this article provides a review of nanocarriers developed for delivering plant-extracted compounds to treat clinical forms of leishmaniasis and critically analyzing them and pointing out the future perspectives for their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darline B. dos Santos
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rodovia Juscelino Kubitisheck, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Janaina A. Lemos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Sued E. M. Miranda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Leonardo D. Di Filippo
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, Sao Paulo State University, Rodovia Araraquara/Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Jonatas L. Duarte
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, Sao Paulo State University, Rodovia Araraquara/Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas A. M. Ferreira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Andre L. B. Barros
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Anna E. M. F. M. Oliveira
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rodovia Juscelino Kubitisheck, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
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Cabello-Donayre M, Orrego LM, Herráez E, García-Hernández R, Pérez-Victoria JM. New Insights on Heme Uptake in Leishmania spp. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10501. [PMID: 36142411 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Leishmania, responsible for leishmaniasis, is one of the few aerobic organisms that cannot synthesize the essential molecule heme. Therefore, it has developed specialized pathways to scavenge it from its host. In recent years, some proteins involved in the import of heme, such as LHR1 and LFLVCRB, have been identified, but relevant aspects regarding the process remain unknown. Here, we characterized the kinetics of the uptake of the heme analogue Zn(II) Mesoporphyrin IX (ZnMP) in Leishmania major promastigotes as a model of a parasite causing cutaneous leishmaniasis with special focus on the force that drives the process. We found that ZnMP uptake is an active, inducible, and pH-dependent process that does not require a plasma membrane proton gradient but requires the presence of the monovalent cations Na+ and/or K+. In addition, we demonstrated that this parasite can efflux this porphyrin against a concentration gradient. We also found that ZnMP uptake differs among different dermotropic or viscerotropic Leishmania species and does not correlate with LHR1 or LFLVCRB expression levels. Finally, we showed that these transporters have only partially overlapping functions. Altogether, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of an important process in the biology of this parasite.
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Geremia N, De Vito A, Lai V, Fiore V, Princic E, Rappelli P, Madeddu G, Babudieri S. Human urogenital schistosomiasis in West and Sub-Saharan Africa migrants in Sardinia, Italy: A retrospective monocentric study. J Infect Dev Ctries 2022; 16:1359-1363. [PMID: 36099381 DOI: 10.3855/jidc.15492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Schistosoma (S.) haematobium is the aetiological agent of urogenital schistosomiasis endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Microhaematuria is strongly associated with schistosomiasis diagnosis. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the treatment of choice. METHODOLOGY We conducted a monocentric survey among African migrants from January 2017 to December 2018. The diagnosis of S. haematobium was performed by direct microscopic examination of urine. The treatment was PZQ 40 mg/Kg/die for three days. RESULTS We enrolled 91 male patients with a median age of 20.2 years (IQR 18.9-23.4)]. Forty-five (49.5%) described a history of haematuria. Sixteen (17.6%) evidenced the presence of red blood cells (RBCs) during urine microscopy. Eighteen (19.8%) had urogenital schistosomiasis. Their median white blood count (WBC) was 5.15 x 109/L (IQR 4.45-6.08) and it was 6.37 x 109 /L (IQR 5.14-8.27), p = 0.009, after 15 days from treatment. Baseline eosinophil count was 0.5 x 109/L (IQR 0.3-0.6) and 0.7 x 109/L (IQR 0.2-1.9; p = 0.032). According to the univariate analysis, origin from Mali [odds ratio (OR) 3.6 (CI 1.2-10.9), p = 0.022] and microscopic evidence of RBCs [OR of 10.7 (CI 2.5-45.1), p = 0.001] were main predictors of urogenital schistosomiasis diagnosis. One (5.6%) treatment failure was registered. Three (16.7%) patients had bladder cancer. CONCLUSIONS Detection of RBCs was a significant predictor of S. haematobium infection and could be used as a screening method in migrants coming from endemic areas. Early urogenital schistosomiasis diagnosis and ultrasound diagnostic tools are crucial for reducing the risk of potential neoplastic evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Geremia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Andrea De Vito
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Lai
- Mediterranean Center for Disease Control (MCDC), University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vito Fiore
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Elija Princic
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Rappelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
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Azañedo D, Visconti-Lopez FJ, Hernández-Vásquez A. A Web of Science-Based Bibliometric Analysis of Global Noma Publications. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7080198. [PMID: 36006290 PMCID: PMC9412599 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7080198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization recognizes noma as a global health problem and has suggested prioritizing research into this disease. A bibliographic search of original articles published in the Web of Science database up to 2022 was performed. A bibliometric analysis was carried out with the bibliometrix package in R and VOSviewer. We identified 251 articles published in 130 journals. The first publication was in 1975, the highest number of publications was in 2003, and the average number of citations per document was 12.59. The author with the highest number of publications was Enwonwu CO, and the Noma Children's Hospital had the highest number of articles on this topic. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery was the journal with the most publications, and the study by Petersen PE was the most cited. The country of corresponding authors that had the most publications and the most significant number of total citations was the United States. "Children" and "Reconstruction" were the most used keywords. In conclusion, there are few publications on noma worldwide, confirming the neglected status of this disease. Urgent actions are needed to increase evidence in regard to the epidemiology of noma and public health interventions to mitigate the ravages of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Azañedo
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima 15067, Peru
| | | | - Akram Hernández-Vásquez
- Centro de Excelencia en Investigaciones Económicas y Sociales en Salud, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima 15024, Peru
- Correspondence:
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Silva TC, Mengarda AC, Lemes BL, Lescano SAZ, Souza DCS, Lago JHG, de Moraes J. N-(4-Methoxyphenyl)Pentanamide, a Simplified Derivative of Albendazole, Displays Anthelmintic Properties against the Nematode Toxocara canis. Microbiol Spectr 2022;:e0180722. [PMID: 35900089 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01807-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic helminths have enormous health, social, and economic impacts worldwide. The treatment and control of these diseases have been dependent on a limited set of drugs, many of which have become less effective, necessitating the search for novel anthelmintic agents. In this study, a simplified compound, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide (N4MP), based on the structure of the most widely used anthelmintic (albendazole), was chemically prepared using 4-anisidine and pentanoic acid. N-(4-Methoxyphenyl)pentanamide was evaluated in vitro against the nematode Toxocara canis, an ascarid roundworm of animals that can infect humans. Similar to albendazole, bioassays showed that N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide affected the viability of parasites in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Interestingly, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide showed a profile of lower cytotoxicity to human and animal cell lines than albendazole. Pharmacokinetic, drug-likeness, and medicinal chemistry friendliness studies demonstrated an excellent drug-likeness profile for N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide as well as an adherence to major pharmaceutical companies’ filters. Collectively, the results of this study demonstrate that the molecular simplification of albendazole to give N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide may be an important pipeline in the discovery of novel anthelmintic agents. IMPORTANCE Infections caused by parasitic helminths have enormous health, social, and economic impacts worldwide. The treatment and control of these diseases have been dependent on a limited set of drugs, many of which have become less effective, necessitating the search for novel anthelmintic agents. Considering this scenario, the present study reports the preparation of N-(4-methoxyphenyl)pentanamide (N4MP), a simplified molecule based on the structure of the most widely used anthelmintic (albendazole). N4MP was evaluated in vitro against the nematode Toxocara canis, a common ascarid roundworm of domestic animals that can infect humans. Similar to albendazole, bioassays showed that N4MP affected the viability of parasites in a time- and concentration-dependent manner but displayed a profile of lower cytotoxicity to human and animal cell lines than albendazole. Therefore, this study demonstrates that the molecular simplification of albendazole to give N4MP may be an important pipeline in the discovery of novel anthelmintic agents.
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Dye-Braumuller KC, Rodríguez Aquino MS, Self SCW, Kanyangarara M, Nolan MS. Spotted Fever Group Rickettsioses in Central America: The Research and Public Health Disparity among Socioeconomic Lines. Insects 2022; 13:674. [PMID: 35893029 DOI: 10.3390/insects13080674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Tick-borne diseases are an important public health issue globally. Spotted fever group rickettsioses (SFGR), a group of related tick-borne pathogens, can cause significant disease, but is widely underreported and likely misdiagnosed. In Central America, there is little known about SFGR, and there seems to be a socioeconomic-related difference between the most-developed and least-developed countries in the region. The least-developed countries (El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua) disproportionately underreport research or studies regarding SFGR disease compared to the most-developed countries (Belize, Panama, and Costa Rica). We compared human development and poverty indicators among Central American countries for this review of SFGR Rickettsia-related articles. The least-developed countries are at a higher risk or are more vulnerable to SFGR disease than the most-developed countries in this region. Abstract Tick-borne diseases including rickettsial diseases are increasing in incidence worldwide. Many rickettsial pathogens can cause disease which is commonly underdiagnosed and underreported; Rickettsia pathogens in the spotted fever group (SFGR) are thus classified as neglected bacterial pathogens. The Central American region shoulders a large proportion of the global neglected disease burden; however, little is known regarding SFGR disease here. Although development varies, four of the seven countries in this region have both the highest poverty rates and SFGR disease burdens (El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua), compared to Belize, Panama, and Costa Rica. Utilizing the Human Development Index (HDI), we compared published articles related to SFGR Rickettsia prevalence in the lowest-HDI-scoring countries to the highest-HDI-scoring countries. Our analysis identified a distinct dichotomy in publication, and by proxy, potentially awareness and knowledge of SFGR tick-borne disease in Central America, where the least-developed countries are at the highest risk for, yet the most vulnerable to, SFGR disease.
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