Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-03-29DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00237-2
Nada Fadul, Mohamed E Hussein, Abdelaal A Fadul
Purpose of the review: To describe the intersectionality of healthcare and economy, and potential solutions to prevent the next peak of COVID-19 in Sudan.
Recent findings: Sudan has recently emerged from a 30-year dictatorship to face the COVID-19 pandemic in the midst of the worst economic crisis. Disease control measures that have been used in developed countries have been difficult to implement in Sudan due to economic, social, and structural challenges. There is a need for integration of data into the disease response plan and for community engagement to help with mitigation efforts. Youth-led community organizations were critical in the success of the Sudanese revolution. Their formal involvement in contact tracing and community awareness campaigns can be beneficial.
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the surface many of the challenges facing the healthcare system in Sudan. Culturally tailored interventions are needed to prevent the next peak of COVID-19 in the country.
{"title":"Re-opening Sudan: the Balance Between Maintaining Daily Living and Avoiding the Next Peak of COVID-19.","authors":"Nada Fadul, Mohamed E Hussein, Abdelaal A Fadul","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00237-2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00237-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of the review: </strong>To describe the intersectionality of healthcare and economy, and potential solutions to prevent the next peak of COVID-19 in Sudan.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>Sudan has recently emerged from a 30-year dictatorship to face the COVID-19 pandemic in the midst of the worst economic crisis. Disease control measures that have been used in developed countries have been difficult to implement in Sudan due to economic, social, and structural challenges. There is a need for integration of data into the disease response plan and for community engagement to help with mitigation efforts. Youth-led community organizations were critical in the success of the Sudanese revolution. Their formal involvement in contact tracing and community awareness campaigns can be beneficial.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the surface many of the challenges facing the healthcare system in Sudan. Culturally tailored interventions are needed to prevent the next peak of COVID-19 in the country.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 3","pages":"231-237"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1007/s40475-021-00237-2","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"25558640","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-03-31DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00236-3
Nicole Paiz, Paula Alonso, Ana Luisa Portillo
Purpose of review: In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, several academic studies have emerged that explore the importance of vitamin D in the development of the SARS-CoV2 infection. The basis of this interest comes from the established effect vitamin D status has on other acute respiratory infections, such as influenza. This article aims to determine the role and effect of vitamin D serum concentration in the prevalence and severity of COVID-19.
Recent findings: Several observational studies have demonstrated that suboptimal levels of vitamin D serum concentrations can significantly increase the risk of developing COVID-19 and lead to a more severe symptomatology. One study suggests, however, that supplementation of vitamin D could potentially increase the incidence of mortality in COVID-19 patients.
Summary: Vitamin D status could have an influential role in the development and progression of SARS-CoV2 infection. Further studies are warranted to understand fully the veracity and the extent of this association.
综述目的:在 COVID-19 大流行期间,有几项学术研究探讨了维生素 D 在 SARS-CoV2 感染发展过程中的重要性。这种兴趣的基础来自于维生素 D 状态对其他急性呼吸道感染(如流感)的既定影响。本文旨在确定维生素 D 血清浓度在 COVID-19 感染率和严重程度中的作用和影响:多项观察性研究表明,维生素 D 血清浓度低于理想水平会显著增加 COVID-19 的发病风险,并导致更严重的症状。然而,一项研究表明,补充维生素 D 有可能增加 COVID-19 患者的死亡率。总结:维生素 D 状态可能对 SARS-CoV2 感染的发生和发展有影响。要充分了解这种关联的真实性和程度,还需要进一步的研究。
{"title":"Vitamin D Status: Can It Affect the Risk of Infection and the Severity of COVID-19 Symptoms?","authors":"Nicole Paiz, Paula Alonso, Ana Luisa Portillo","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00236-3","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s40475-021-00236-3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, several academic studies have emerged that explore the importance of vitamin D in the development of the SARS-CoV2 infection. The basis of this interest comes from the established effect vitamin D status has on other acute respiratory infections, such as influenza. This article aims to determine the role and effect of vitamin D serum concentration in the prevalence and severity of COVID-19.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>Several observational studies have demonstrated that suboptimal levels of vitamin D serum concentrations can significantly increase the risk of developing COVID-19 and lead to a more severe symptomatology. One study suggests, however, that supplementation of vitamin D could potentially increase the incidence of mortality in COVID-19 patients.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Vitamin D status could have an influential role in the development and progression of SARS-CoV2 infection. Further studies are warranted to understand fully the veracity and the extent of this association.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 3","pages":"204-211"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8010782/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"25558641","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-03-17DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00232-7
Sarah Mann, Katherine Frasca, Sara Scherrer, Andrés F Henao-Martínez, Sabrina Newman, Poornima Ramanan, José A Suarez
Purpose of review: The goal of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of cutaneous, mucosal, and visceral leishmaniasis. We will describe the most recent findings and suggest areas of further research in the leishmaniasis field.
Recent findings: This article reviews newer leishmaniasis tests (including rapid diagnostic tests using rK39 antibodies), vaccine candidates, and updated treatment recommendations.
Summary: While leishmaniasis is a complex disease, learning the prominent clinical manifestations and major parasite species can guide the recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.
{"title":"A Review of Leishmaniasis: Current Knowledge and Future Directions.","authors":"Sarah Mann, Katherine Frasca, Sara Scherrer, Andrés F Henao-Martínez, Sabrina Newman, Poornima Ramanan, José A Suarez","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00232-7","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00232-7","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>The goal of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of cutaneous, mucosal, and visceral leishmaniasis. We will describe the most recent findings and suggest areas of further research in the leishmaniasis field.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>This article reviews newer leishmaniasis tests (including rapid diagnostic tests using rK39 antibodies), vaccine candidates, and updated treatment recommendations.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>While leishmaniasis is a complex disease, learning the prominent clinical manifestations and major parasite species can guide the recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 2","pages":"121-132"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1007/s40475-021-00232-7","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"25501648","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-06-19DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00242-5
Timothee Bonifay, Lidvine Godaert, Yanouk Epelboin, Dominique Rousset, Maylis Douine, Hélène Hilderal, Cyril Clavel, Sylvie Abel, Fatiha Najioullah, Laurence Fagour, Margarete do Socorro Mendonça Gomes, Marcus Lacerda, Raymond Cézaire, Narcisse Elenga, Moustapha Dramé, Bruno Hoen, André Cabié, Félix Djossou, Loïc Epelboin
Purpose of review: Although the chikungunya virus was discovered more than 60 years ago, it has only really been studied since the outbreak in La Reunion in 2005-2006. Ten years later, between 2014 and 2015, the chikungunya virus spread throughout the Americas, affecting millions of people. The objective of this review is to describe the contributions of research on chikungunya virus infection gained from epidemic in the West Indies and the Guiana Shield.
Recent findings: Prevalence data were similar to those found in the Indian Ocean or Asia during epidemics. Clinically, there is now a better understanding of the typical, atypical, and severe forms. Several studies have insisted on the presence of neurological forms of chikungunya infection, such as encephalitis or Guillain-Barré syndrome. Cases of septic shock due to chikungunya virus as well as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura were described for the first time. Given the magnitude of the epidemic and the large number of people affected, this has led to a better description and new classifications of chikungunya virus infections in specific populations such as pregnant women, the elderly, and children. Several studies also described the behavior of populations faced with an emerging disease.
Summary: Current epidemiological data from tropical regions highlights the risk of spreading emerging diseases at higher latitudes, especially concerning arboviruses, since the vector Aedes albopictus is already established in many parts of northern countries. A better understanding of the disease and its epidemic dynamics will foster better management, the crucial importance of which was demonstrated during the COVID-19 epidemic.
{"title":"Contribution of Research in the West Indies and Northeast Amazonia to Knowledge of the 2014-2015 Chikungunya Epidemic in the Americas.","authors":"Timothee Bonifay, Lidvine Godaert, Yanouk Epelboin, Dominique Rousset, Maylis Douine, Hélène Hilderal, Cyril Clavel, Sylvie Abel, Fatiha Najioullah, Laurence Fagour, Margarete do Socorro Mendonça Gomes, Marcus Lacerda, Raymond Cézaire, Narcisse Elenga, Moustapha Dramé, Bruno Hoen, André Cabié, Félix Djossou, Loïc Epelboin","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00242-5","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00242-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>Although the chikungunya virus was discovered more than 60 years ago, it has only really been studied since the outbreak in La Reunion in 2005-2006. Ten years later, between 2014 and 2015, the chikungunya virus spread throughout the Americas, affecting millions of people. The objective of this review is to describe the contributions of research on chikungunya virus infection gained from epidemic in the West Indies and the Guiana Shield.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>Prevalence data were similar to those found in the Indian Ocean or Asia during epidemics. Clinically, there is now a better understanding of the typical, atypical, and severe forms. Several studies have insisted on the presence of neurological forms of chikungunya infection, such as encephalitis or Guillain-Barré syndrome. Cases of septic shock due to chikungunya virus as well as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura were described for the first time. Given the magnitude of the epidemic and the large number of people affected, this has led to a better description and new classifications of chikungunya virus infections in specific populations such as pregnant women, the elderly, and children. Several studies also described the behavior of populations faced with an emerging disease.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Current epidemiological data from tropical regions highlights the risk of spreading emerging diseases at higher latitudes, especially concerning arboviruses, since the vector <i>Aedes albopictus</i> is already established in many parts of northern countries. A better understanding of the disease and its epidemic dynamics will foster better management, the crucial importance of which was demonstrated during the COVID-19 epidemic.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 3","pages":"164-172"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1007/s40475-021-00242-5","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"39111031","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-02-20DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00229-2
Eduardo Wong, José Antonio Suárez, Laura Naranjo, María Mercedes Castrejón-Alba
Purpose of review: This review aims to describe briefly the general information of arboviruses dengue, Zika, and chikungunya infections and emphasize the clinical manifestations of each, to help identify and make a quick diagnosis of each.
Recent findings: The most relevant advances in the study of these arboviruses' infections have been in the epidemiological distribution, mainly due to international travel, migration, and climate change; in the clinical manifestations of these diseases, the development of clinical decision-making software, which can help improve the management and outcomes of these patients; and in the prevention of this disease.
Summary: Although arboviruses infections constitute a clinical challenge for the attending physician in the scope of a febrile returning traveler, a thorough clinical history and exam can help to aid diagnostic reasoning. The characteristics of the rash are a very helpful clue in the evaluation of these patients. Currently, there are clinical decision aid tools that help to get the diagnosis more quickly.
{"title":"Arbovirus Rash in the Febrile Returning Traveler as a Diagnostic Clue.","authors":"Eduardo Wong, José Antonio Suárez, Laura Naranjo, María Mercedes Castrejón-Alba","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00229-2","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s40475-021-00229-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>This review aims to describe briefly the general information of arboviruses dengue, Zika, and chikungunya infections and emphasize the clinical manifestations of each, to help identify and make a quick diagnosis of each.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>The most relevant advances in the study of these arboviruses' infections have been in the epidemiological distribution, mainly due to international travel, migration, and climate change; in the clinical manifestations of these diseases, the development of clinical decision-making software, which can help improve the management and outcomes of these patients; and in the prevention of this disease.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Although arboviruses infections constitute a clinical challenge for the attending physician in the scope of a febrile returning traveler, a thorough clinical history and exam can help to aid diagnostic reasoning. The characteristics of the rash are a very helpful clue in the evaluation of these patients. Currently, there are clinical decision aid tools that help to get the diagnosis more quickly.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 2","pages":"91-98"},"PeriodicalIF":3.6,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7900380/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"25421423","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-06-01DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00243-4
Loïc Epelboin, Carole Eldin, Pauline Thill, Vincent Pommier de Santi, Philippe Abboud, Gaëlle Walter, Alessia Melzani, Paule Letertre-Gibert, Lucas Perez, Magalie Demar, Mathilde Boutrou, Jorlan Fernandes, Julman Rosiris Cermeño, Maria Mercedes Panizo, Stephen Gs Vreden, Félix Djossou, Emmanuel Beillard, Jacobus H de Waard, Elba Regina Sampaio de Lemos
Purpose of review: In this review, we report on the state of knowledge about human Q fever in Brazil and on the Guiana Shield, an Amazonian region located in northeastern South America. There is a contrast between French Guiana, where the incidence of this disease is the highest in the world, and other countries where this disease is practically non-existent.
Recent findings: Recent findings are essentially in French Guiana where a unique strain MST17 has been identified; it is probably more virulent than those usually found with a particularly marked pulmonary tropism, a mysterious animal reservoir, a geographical distribution that raises questions.
Summary: Q fever is a bacterial zoonosis due to Coxiella burnetii that has been reported worldwide. On the Guiana Shield, a region mostly covered by Amazonian forest, which encompasses the Venezuelan State of Bolivar, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and the Brazilian State of Amapá, the situation is very heterogeneous. While French Guiana is the region reporting the highest incidence of this disease in the world, with a single infecting clone (MST 117) and a unique epidemiological cycle, it has hardly ever been reported in other countries in the region. This absence of cases raises many questions and is probably due to massive under-diagnosis. Studies should estimate comprehensively the true burden of this disease in the region.
{"title":"Human Q Fever on the Guiana Shield and Brazil: Recent Findings and Remaining Questions.","authors":"Loïc Epelboin, Carole Eldin, Pauline Thill, Vincent Pommier de Santi, Philippe Abboud, Gaëlle Walter, Alessia Melzani, Paule Letertre-Gibert, Lucas Perez, Magalie Demar, Mathilde Boutrou, Jorlan Fernandes, Julman Rosiris Cermeño, Maria Mercedes Panizo, Stephen Gs Vreden, Félix Djossou, Emmanuel Beillard, Jacobus H de Waard, Elba Regina Sampaio de Lemos","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00243-4","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00243-4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>In this review, we report on the state of knowledge about human Q fever in Brazil and on the Guiana Shield, an Amazonian region located in northeastern South America. There is a contrast between French Guiana, where the incidence of this disease is the highest in the world, and other countries where this disease is practically non-existent.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>Recent findings are essentially in French Guiana where a unique strain MST17 has been identified; it is probably more virulent than those usually found with a particularly marked pulmonary tropism, a mysterious animal reservoir, a geographical distribution that raises questions.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Q fever is a bacterial zoonosis due to <i>Coxiella burnetii</i> that has been reported worldwide. On the Guiana Shield, a region mostly covered by Amazonian forest, which encompasses the Venezuelan State of Bolivar, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and the Brazilian State of Amapá, the situation is very heterogeneous. While French Guiana is the region reporting the highest incidence of this disease in the world, with a single infecting clone (MST 117) and a unique epidemiological cycle, it has hardly ever been reported in other countries in the region. This absence of cases raises many questions and is probably due to massive under-diagnosis. Studies should estimate comprehensively the true burden of this disease in the region.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 3","pages":"173-182"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1007/s40475-021-00243-4","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"39066640","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-10-21DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00248-z
Raúl Argüello-García, M Guadalupe Ortega-Pierres
<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>Here, we review recent progress made on the genetic characterization of <i>Giardia duodenalis</i> assemblages and their relationship with virulence. We also discuss the implications of virulence factors in the pathogenesis of giardiasis, and advances in the development of vaccines and drugs based on knowledge of virulence markers.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>The use of transcriptomic and proteomic technologies as well as whole genome sequencing (WGS) from single cysts has allowed the assembly of the draft genome sequences for assemblages C and D of <i>G. duodenalis</i>. These findings, along with the published genomes for assemblages A, B, and E, have allowed comparative genomic investigations. In addition, the use of these methodologies for the characterization of the secretomes of trophozoite-epithelial cell interactions for assemblages A/B has led to the identification of virulence markers including energy metabolism enzymes, proteinases, high-cysteine membrane proteins (HCMPs), and variant surface proteins (VSPs). Recently, some drugs and vaccines, targeting virulence factors have been developed, offering possible alternatives to current treatment and prevention options against giardiasis.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Among the nine recognized species of <i>Giardia</i>, <i>G. duodenalis</i> stands out because of its broad spectrum of hosts and its socio-economic importance. This species comprises eight genetic assemblages (A to H), of which A and B are zoonotic, and the other assemblages have narrow host specificities. Assemblages A and B may be considered as the most virulent ones, but the existence of asymptomatic carriers and considerable genetic variability within and among these assemblages hampers the definition of common virulence factors. The attachment of <i>Giardia</i> trophozoites to epithelial cells and structural cytoskeleton components of the adhesive disk, such as giardins or tubulins, is proposed to play key roles, but toxins have not yet been precisely defined. However, recent transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of the secretomes of trophozoites representing assemblages A and B and interacting with particular epithelial cell lines have defined a series of virulence factors, including glycolytic (e.g., enolase) and arginolytic (e.g., arginine deiminase) enzymes, cysteine proteases (e.g., giardipain-1) and VSPs (e.g., VSP9B10A). Other factors, such as HCMPs and tenascins, have been consistently found to be excreted/secreted, but their role(s) in the pathogenesis of giardiasis has not yet been elucidated. Interestingly, recent investigations of single cysts representing assemblages C and D using advanced sequencing and informatic methods have suggested that the transcription/expression profiles of virulence factors vary both within and between assemblages, thus assemblage-specific molecules might allow adaptation to the microenvironment within the host. Importantly, some dr
{"title":"Giardia duodenalis Virulence - \"To Be, or Not To Be\".","authors":"Raúl Argüello-García, M Guadalupe Ortega-Pierres","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00248-z","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00248-z","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>Here, we review recent progress made on the genetic characterization of <i>Giardia duodenalis</i> assemblages and their relationship with virulence. We also discuss the implications of virulence factors in the pathogenesis of giardiasis, and advances in the development of vaccines and drugs based on knowledge of virulence markers.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>The use of transcriptomic and proteomic technologies as well as whole genome sequencing (WGS) from single cysts has allowed the assembly of the draft genome sequences for assemblages C and D of <i>G. duodenalis</i>. These findings, along with the published genomes for assemblages A, B, and E, have allowed comparative genomic investigations. In addition, the use of these methodologies for the characterization of the secretomes of trophozoite-epithelial cell interactions for assemblages A/B has led to the identification of virulence markers including energy metabolism enzymes, proteinases, high-cysteine membrane proteins (HCMPs), and variant surface proteins (VSPs). Recently, some drugs and vaccines, targeting virulence factors have been developed, offering possible alternatives to current treatment and prevention options against giardiasis.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Among the nine recognized species of <i>Giardia</i>, <i>G. duodenalis</i> stands out because of its broad spectrum of hosts and its socio-economic importance. This species comprises eight genetic assemblages (A to H), of which A and B are zoonotic, and the other assemblages have narrow host specificities. Assemblages A and B may be considered as the most virulent ones, but the existence of asymptomatic carriers and considerable genetic variability within and among these assemblages hampers the definition of common virulence factors. The attachment of <i>Giardia</i> trophozoites to epithelial cells and structural cytoskeleton components of the adhesive disk, such as giardins or tubulins, is proposed to play key roles, but toxins have not yet been precisely defined. However, recent transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of the secretomes of trophozoites representing assemblages A and B and interacting with particular epithelial cell lines have defined a series of virulence factors, including glycolytic (e.g., enolase) and arginolytic (e.g., arginine deiminase) enzymes, cysteine proteases (e.g., giardipain-1) and VSPs (e.g., VSP9B10A). Other factors, such as HCMPs and tenascins, have been consistently found to be excreted/secreted, but their role(s) in the pathogenesis of giardiasis has not yet been elucidated. Interestingly, recent investigations of single cysts representing assemblages C and D using advanced sequencing and informatic methods have suggested that the transcription/expression profiles of virulence factors vary both within and between assemblages, thus assemblage-specific molecules might allow adaptation to the microenvironment within the host. Importantly, some dr","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 4","pages":"246-256"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8529366/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"39559034","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-11-01DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00247-0
Rupesh Raut, Ranjit Sah, Kritika Dixit, Alfonso J Rodriguez-Morales, Zenteno Marco, Kuldeep Dhama, Yashpal Singh Malik, Ruchi Tiwari, D Katterine Bonilla-Aldana, Angel Lee
Purpose of review: There has been a high influx of publications on the SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 worldwide in the recent few months as very little was known about them. Nepal too had a substantial number of publications on the same, and there was a need to track the most relevant and impactful to the scientific community through bibliometric analysis.
Recent findings: A total of 72 publications were analyzed. Bagmati Pradesh (88%) and its district, Kathmandu (77%), was with the most publications. There were no publications from Gandaki and Karnali Province. Most of the publications were in the international medical journals (82%), 53% chose European journals to publish, and 15.27% were related to and published in psychology journals. The majority were original articles (39%) and mostly related to public health (20.83%). 59.7% of the papers had Nepalese as the first author. Most of them were affiliated with Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital and Patan Academy of Health Sciences.
Summary: Our analysis suggests a need to shift the type of studies from observational studies to studies oriented more towards the therapeutic and clinical trials of available medicines and patient care management. Similarly, the bibliometric analysis gives an overall picture of Nepali medical research's publication status around the globe.
{"title":"A Review of the Scientific Contributions of Nepal on COVID-19.","authors":"Rupesh Raut, Ranjit Sah, Kritika Dixit, Alfonso J Rodriguez-Morales, Zenteno Marco, Kuldeep Dhama, Yashpal Singh Malik, Ruchi Tiwari, D Katterine Bonilla-Aldana, Angel Lee","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00247-0","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00247-0","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>There has been a high influx of publications on the SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 worldwide in the recent few months as very little was known about them. Nepal too had a substantial number of publications on the same, and there was a need to track the most relevant and impactful to the scientific community through bibliometric analysis.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>A total of 72 publications were analyzed. Bagmati Pradesh (88%) and its district, Kathmandu (77%), was with the most publications. There were no publications from Gandaki and Karnali Province. Most of the publications were in the international medical journals (82%), 53% chose European journals to publish, and 15.27% were related to and published in psychology journals. The majority were original articles (39%) and mostly related to public health (20.83%). 59.7% of the papers had Nepalese as the first author. Most of them were affiliated with Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital and Patan Academy of Health Sciences.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Our analysis suggests a need to shift the type of studies from observational studies to studies oriented more towards the therapeutic and clinical trials of available medicines and patient care management. Similarly, the bibliometric analysis gives an overall picture of Nepali medical research's publication status around the globe.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 4","pages":"257-264"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8558546/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"39598015","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-01Epub Date: 2021-07-16DOI: 10.1007/s40475-021-00245-2
Jessica Saifee, Carlos Franco-Paredes, Steven R Lowenstein
Purpose of review: This commentary summarizes recent literature pertaining to healthcare challenges and needs during the current pandemic among refugees and asylum seekers residing in a host country. We conducted a literature review to identify barriers to shielding these structurally marginalized populations from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recent findings: Many populations, including refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, endure structural vulnerabilities in refugee camps and during their resettlement. These structural vulnerabilities include fear of contacting the healthcare system, cultural differences, housing insecurity, food insecurity, discrimination, lack of health insurance, health illiteracy and lack of readily available, and culturally appropriate educational materials. During pandemics, displaced persons suffer disproportionately from poorly managed chronic diseases, economic hardships isolation, and mental illnesses, in addition to the threats posed by the infectious agent.
Summary: Underserved groups, including refugee populations, shoulder a disproportionate burden of disease during pandemics. In order to mitigate the impact of preventable chronic illnesses and also reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other easily-transmissible and deadly viruses during pandemics, governments and public health authorities need to implement policies that allow refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons to be fully incorporated into their respective healthcare systems, so that they can be supported and protected and to reduce the amplifying networks of transmission.
{"title":"Refugee Health During COVID-19 and Future Pandemics.","authors":"Jessica Saifee, Carlos Franco-Paredes, Steven R Lowenstein","doi":"10.1007/s40475-021-00245-2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-021-00245-2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>This commentary summarizes recent literature pertaining to healthcare challenges and needs during the current pandemic among refugees and asylum seekers residing in a host country. We conducted a literature review to identify barriers to shielding these structurally marginalized populations from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>Many populations, including refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, endure structural vulnerabilities in refugee camps and during their resettlement. These structural vulnerabilities include fear of contacting the healthcare system, cultural differences, housing insecurity, food insecurity, discrimination, lack of health insurance, health illiteracy and lack of readily available, and culturally appropriate educational materials. During pandemics, displaced persons suffer disproportionately from poorly managed chronic diseases, economic hardships isolation, and mental illnesses, in addition to the threats posed by the infectious agent.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Underserved groups, including refugee populations, shoulder a disproportionate burden of disease during pandemics. In order to mitigate the impact of preventable chronic illnesses and also reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other easily-transmissible and deadly viruses during pandemics, governments and public health authorities need to implement policies that allow refugees, asylum seekers, and displaced persons to be fully incorporated into their respective healthcare systems, so that they can be supported and protected and to reduce the amplifying networks of transmission.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"8 3","pages":"1-4"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2021-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1007/s40475-021-00245-2","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"39220126","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2020-12-01DOI: 10.1007/s40475-020-00216-z
Andrés Tirado-Sánchez, Carlos Franco-Paredes, Alexandro Bonifaz
Purpose of review: The increase in international travel in recent decades has contributed to the risk of acquiring diseases considered endemic to a region or country and the change in the epidemiology of these diseases. Endemic mycoses that may be acquired by travelers in the short or long term are endemic subcutaneous mycoses such as sporotrichosis and lobomycosis, while endemic systemic mycoses are a group of serious diseases including histoplasmosis and coccidioidomycosis. Herein, we review the current knowledge and highlight the most important aspects of these fungal infections in travelers.
Recent findings: The most relevant advances in the study of these mycoses involve the epidemiological distribution; human mycoses can be fatal and there are few antifungal drugs available, increasing drug resistance, and a risk of emerging fungal diseases associated with climate change, as well as the increasing virulence, and the diagnostic strategies that may be limited in many countries.
Summary: Although endemic mycoses are relatively rare, they should be considered as potentially travel-related illnesses. A recent or late trip to an endemic country may guide the clinical suspicion, an early diagnosis, and the institution of effective therapy.
{"title":"Subcutaneous Mycoses in Travelers.","authors":"Andrés Tirado-Sánchez, Carlos Franco-Paredes, Alexandro Bonifaz","doi":"10.1007/s40475-020-00216-z","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-020-00216-z","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose of review: </strong>The increase in international travel in recent decades has contributed to the risk of acquiring diseases considered endemic to a region or country and the change in the epidemiology of these diseases. Endemic mycoses that may be acquired by travelers in the short or long term are endemic subcutaneous mycoses such as sporotrichosis and lobomycosis, while endemic systemic mycoses are a group of serious diseases including histoplasmosis and coccidioidomycosis. Herein, we review the current knowledge and highlight the most important aspects of these fungal infections in travelers.</p><p><strong>Recent findings: </strong>The most relevant advances in the study of these mycoses involve the epidemiological distribution; human mycoses can be fatal and there are few antifungal drugs available, increasing drug resistance, and a risk of emerging fungal diseases associated with climate change, as well as the increasing virulence, and the diagnostic strategies that may be limited in many countries.</p><p><strong>Summary: </strong>Although endemic mycoses are relatively rare, they should be considered as potentially travel-related illnesses. A recent or late trip to an endemic country may guide the clinical suspicion, an early diagnosis, and the institution of effective therapy.</p>","PeriodicalId":37441,"journal":{"name":"Current Tropical Medicine Reports","volume":"7 4","pages":"141-152"},"PeriodicalIF":5.4,"publicationDate":"2020-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://sci-hub-pdf.com/10.1007/s40475-020-00216-z","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"10265969","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}