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Simple Summary: The primary risk regarding Helicobacter pylori infection is that it is associated with gastric cancer. The lack of eradication of Helicobacter pylori has led to an increase in the prevalence of gastric cancer. We examined the literature from the year 2024 related to the Helicobacter pylori/gastric cancer association. Immunological studies increased, but they did not convince in the study of this infection. Most of the examined studies address the clinical treatment of this bacterium. However, to the same extent, other studies have investigated genetically individualized treatment. If, until now, clinical treatments have not yet been able to eradicate this bacterium, we recommend genetically individualized treatment. Numerous studies have been performed on Helicobacter pylori infection because of the high death rate linked to this illness and gastric cancer. An update on the key developments in recent years in the investigation of Helicobacter pylori and gastric cancer is the goal of this review. Using the search term "Helicobacter pylori, gastric cancer", the PubMed database was searched. Only papers published in 2024 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Because case report papers were not part of our investigation, they satisfied the exclusion criteria. Most of the research on the variable genes of Helicobacter pylori is guided by genetics to determine potential treatments. Studies on clinical treatments for the eradication of H. pylori with promising therapeutic options are needed. We found the fewest studies related to the immunopathology of H. pylori infection, which is still unknown. In conclusion, priority should be given to this kind of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lymphatic filariasis (LF), a mosquito-borne helminth infection, is an important cause of chronic disability globally. The World Health Organization has validated eight Pacific Island countries as having eliminated lymphatic filariasis (LF) as a public health problem, but there are limited data to support an evidence-based approach to post-validation surveillance (PVS). Tonga was validated as having eliminated LF in 2017 but no surveillance has been conducted since 2015. This paper describes a protocol for an operational research project investigating different PVS methods in Tonga to provide an evidence base for national and regional PVS strategies., Methods: Programmatic baseline surveys and Transmission Assessment Surveys conducted between 2000-2015 were reviewed to identify historically 'high-risk' and 'low-risk' schools and communities. 'High-risk' were those with LF antigen (Ag)-positive individuals recorded in more than one survey, whilst 'low-risk' were those with no recorded Ag-positives. The outcome measure for ongoing LF transmission will be Ag-positivity, diagnosed using Alere™ Filariasis Test Strips. A targeted study will be conducted in May-July 2024 including: (i) high and low-risk schools and communities, (ii) boarding schools, and (iii) patients attending a chronic-disease clinic. We estimate a total sample size of 2,010 participants., Conclusions: Our methodology for targeted surveillance of suspected 'high-risk' populations using historical survey data can be adopted by countries when designing their PVS strategies. The results of this study will allow us to understand the current status of LF in Tonga and will be used to develop the next phase of activities., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Lawford et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

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Country-owned, as opposed to donor-driven, is a principle within the development sector that recognizes the centrality of countries' leadership, systems, and resources in executing programs and achieving sustainable development. In alignment with this notion, the Immunization Agenda 2030 was developed with country ownership as one of four core principles of the ambitious ten-year plan. This means that the success of immunization programs, including those with eradication and elimination goals such as polio, measles, and rubella, and those with broader equity goals to "leave no one behind" on immunization, would be largely driven by country systems. In this paper we deconstruct country ownership into five operational principles: commitment, coordination, capacity, community participation, and accountability. Through this lens, we illustrate how two countries, Nepal and Nigeria, have exemplified country ownership in their measles and rubella elimination programs and we infer the ways in which country ownership drives system performance and sustains program efforts., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 World Health Organization. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: NTDs historically receive less attention than other diseases in the same regions. Recent gap analyses revealed notable shortcomings despite NTD elimination progress. This systematic scoping review was conducted to understand NTD control, elimination, and eradication efforts in the WHO African region over the last 30 years., Methods: Peer-reviewed publications from PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases related to NTD control, elimination, and eradication in the WHO African Region from 1990 to 2022 were reviewed. Included articles were categorized based on NTD; study location, type, and period; and topic areas. Technical and guidance documents from WHO, UN, partner, and academic/research institutions were reviewed. Country-specific multi-year NTD master plans were documented., Results: Four hundred eighty peer-reviewed articles, six Cochrane reviews, and 134 technical reports were included. MDA and non-interventional/survey-related studies were common topics. Lymphatic filariasis, trachoma, schistosomiasis, and onchocerciasis were the most frequently studied NTDs. Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Nigeria were the most represented countries; multi-country studies were limited., Conclusion: The review highlights progress made in NTD control, elimination, and eradication efforts in the WHO African Region and can inform national/regional strategies. Disease and geographical disparities were evident, warranting focus and research in certain countries. A standardized approach to NTD control programs is needed for sustained progress., Funding: There was no funding source for this study., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

In this paper, we develop and analyze a mathematical model for spreading malaria, including treatment with transmission‐blocking drugs (TBDs). The paper's main aim is to demonstrate the impact the chosen model for demographic growth has on the disease's transmission and the effect of its treatment with TBDs. We calculate the model's control reproduction number and equilibria and perform a global stability analysis of the disease‐free equilibrium point. The mathematical analysis reveals that, depending on the model's demography, the model can exhibit forward, backward, and even some unconventional types of bifurcation, where disease elimination can occur for both small and large values of the reproduction number. We also conduct a numerical analysis to explore the short‐time behavior of the model. A key finding is that for one type of demographic growth, the population experienced a significantly higher disease burden than the others, and when exposed to high levels of treatment with TBDs, only this population succeeded in effectively eliminating the disease within a reasonable timeframe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Patients with pediatric liver cancers hepatoblastoma and hepatocellular carcinoma very often develop lung metastases. These cancers can present with lung metastases and are at higher risk of relapse. Although cisplatin is very effective at clearing lung metastases, they can still relapse. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop therapeutic approaches to prevent the development of lung metastases in patients with pediatric liver cancers. In this paper, we show that the metastatic microenvironment of HBL and HCC patients contains a heterogeneous cell population that formed tumor clusters. We found that both fresh primary tumors and generated primary cell cultures had increased the expression of HDAC1, a histone deacetylase, and the transcription factor Sp5. Sp5 and HDAC1 work in tandem by transporting HDAC1 to the promoters of genes and changing their expression. We analyzed the effects of the HDAC inhibitor, SAHA, on the metastasis-initiating cells in combination with cisplatin. We found that HDAC inhibition increases the efficacy of cisplatin to eliminate these metastasis-initiating cells. The pediatric liver cancers, hepatoblastoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, are dangerous cancers which often spread to the lungs. Although treatments with cisplatin significantly improve outcomes, cisplatin may not eliminate metastasis-initiating cells. Our group has recently shown that the metastatic microenvironments of hepatoblastoma contain Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) and neuron-like cells, which initiate cancer spread from liver to lungs. In this study, we found that these cells express high levels of HDAC1; therefore, we examined if histone deacetylase inhibition improves cisplatin anti-proliferative effects and reduces the formation of tumor clusters in pediatric liver cancer metastatic microenvironments. Methods: New cell lines were generated from primary hepatoblastoma liver tumors (hbl) and lung metastases (LM) of HBL patients. In addition, cell lines were generated from hepatocellular neoplasm, not otherwise specified (HCN-NOS) tumor samples, and hcc cell lines. Hbl, LM and hcc cells were treated with cisplatin, SAHA or in combination. The effect of these drugs on the number of cells, formation of tumor clusters and HDAC1-Sp5-p21 axis were examined. Results: Both HBL and HCC tissue specimens have increased HDAC1-Sp5 pathway activation, recapitulated in cell lines generated from the tumors. HDAC inhibition with vorinostat (SAHA) increases cisplatin efficacy to eliminate CAFs in hbl and in hcc cell lines. Although the neuron-like cells survive the combined treatments, proliferation was inhibited. Notably, combining SAHA with cisplatin overcame cisplatin resistance in an LM cell line from an aggressive case with multiple metastases. Underlying mechanisms of this enhanced inhibition include suppression of the HDAC1-Sp5 pathway and elevation of an inhibitor of proliferation p21. Similar findings were found with gemcitabine treatments suggesting that elimination of proliferative CAFs cells is a key event in the inhibition of mitotic microenvironment. Conclusions: Our studies demonstrate the synergistic benefits of HDAC inhibition and cisplatin to eliminate metastasis-initiating cells in pediatric liver cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevention and treatment of leprosy is a public health and social issue of global concern. China has become the first country in the world to put forward a proposal on the elimination of the harm caused by leprosy. This paper briefly introduces the status of the spread of leprosy in China, and systematically reviews the evolution of policies and measures at different stages of the disease in China, from the serious epidemic of leprosy to the control of the infection, to the basic elimination, and to the elimination of the hazards. On this basis, five main lessons learned from the control and elimination of leprosy in China were also summarized. These provide the basis for promoting the complete global elimination of leprosy and preventing its re-transmission, thereby benefiting all those who still suffer from the scourge of leprosy., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

In this paper, we aim to minimize the epidemic size of tungiasis disease and economic costs simultaneously, with terminal demands for infected humans. A human–jigger parasite control system with four control schemes for humans and jiggers is established. We propose a multi-objective optimal control problem with terminal constraints, in which the accumulated number of infected humans and control costs are involved. By applying the modified normal boundary intersection algorithm and the interior point scheme, numerical simulations for different combinations of control schemes are carried out, and actual data in Madagascar are used. Effective combination schemes are indicated from the perspectives of disease eradication, cost saving and time saving. Once these effective combinations are properly performed, the disease can be controlled. When only minimizing the epidemic size, the combination of the optimal treatments and adulticiding efforts is the best choice in the rainy season; the combination of the optimal personal protections and treatments is the preferential option in the dry season. When only minimizing the economical cost, the combination of the optimal adulticide and larvicide is the better selection in the rainy season; the combination of the optimal personal protections, treatments and adulticiding efforts is the prior choose in the dry season. Thus, there is a trade-off between the two objectives for all the effective combinations, decision-makers may choose an appropriate one to control the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses an investigation into a leader‐following consensus problem in a novel multi‐agent‐based SIS (Susceptible‐Infected‐Susceptible) epidemic model. As infectious diseases are easily spread through travel, the model considers each agent to represent a city in an infected country, interacting with neighbouring cities towards achieving disease eradication through consensus. To make the model more realistic, the Effect Terms (ETs) arising from the effects of agent states on each other are also considered. The differential equations' positivity and existence of solutions are examined, and the proposed model's equilibrium points are obtained, with stability analysed using new local and global basic reproduction numbers defined in this study. Additionally, a leader‐following consensus control for the multi‐agent‐based system is proposed to drive each agent to follow a virtual leader agent. Finally, numerical simulations are included to validate the theoretical findings corresponding to the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an in‐depth analysis of a hybrid mathematical model, the fractional SECIR model, designed to explore the impact of infectious diseases, with particular emphasis on their effect on individuals with chronic conditions. The study delves into the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the proposed model, yielding several stability results based on parameters that adhere to specific conditions to mitigate pandemic occurrences. The model parameters are estimated using data reported by the Algerian health authorities in recent years, facilitating the application of the model to the Algerian context. The findings derived from the application of this mathematical compartmental model indicate that the basic reproduction number for certain infectious diseases in Algeria (Tuberculosis and COVID‐19) is less than one. This observation suggests the potential for disease eradication or effective management through a combination of targeted interventions including vaccination, high‐quality treatment, and precise isolation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with threshold dynamics of a degenerate diffusive HBV infection model with DNA-containing capsids in heterogeneous environment. We firstly address the existence of global solutions, uniform and ultimate boundedness of solutions, asymptotic smoothness of semiflows and existence of a connected global attractor for the diffusive model. Then, we identify the basic reproduction number R 0 and establish a threshold-type result for the disease eradication or uniform persistence when R 0 ≤ 1 or R 0 > 1 , respectively. Especially, when R 0 > 1 and the diffusion rate of capsids or the diffusion rate of virions is zero, we further show that the model admits a unique infection steady state which is globally attractive. Our results indicate that the pathogen can be eliminated by limiting the mobility of the capsids or virions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the recent pandemic caused by COVID‐19, media awareness played a crucial role in educating people about social distancing, wearing masks, quarantine, vaccination, and medication. Media awareness brought individual behavioral changes among the people, which in turn helped reduce the infection rate. Motivated by this, we have formulated a mathematical model introducing a media compartment to mitigate measles disease transmission. In this paper, the SEIR model is used to study measles disease in three cases: one with a delay in vaccination, the second with regular vaccination, and the third with the impact of media awareness on the spreading of measles disease. Further, the dynamical behavior of the models is studied in terms of positivity, boundedness, equilibrium, and basic reproduction number (BRN). The sensitivity analysis of the models is conducted, which verifies the importance of the BRN (R0$$ {R}_0 $$) to be less than one for disease eradication. The numerical study confirms the impact of media awareness on exposed and infected populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper attempts to examine how malaria eradication in Taiwan during the 1950s, which successfully wiped out malaria within a short period, affected long-term health. Relying on three data sets covering the entire population of Taiwan, we construct diverse measures of health, including health-care utilization, functional abilities, chronic diseases, and catastrophic illnesses. Our results indicate that people who experienced larger reductions in early-life malaria exposure tend to have better health status as adults, especially women. Our results suggest a sizable cost saving from the eradication program that improves early-life environment and helps to avoid costly diseases at a later point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is limited guidance on strategies for delivering complex global health programs. We synthesized available evidence on implementation strategies and outcomes utilized in the global polio eradication initiative (GPEI) across low and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. Methods: We nested our scoping review into a literature review conducted as part of a parent study, STRIPE. This review systematically searched PubMed for articles between 1 January 1988 and 25 April 2018 using polio search terms. Strategies from included studies were organized according to the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) framework, specified using Proctor's framework, and linked to various outcomes (implementation, services delivery, impact). Results: 152 unique articles fulfilled our inclusion criteria (from 1,885 articles included in the parent study). Only 43 out of the 152 articles described a suitable quantitative study design for evaluating outcomes. We extracted 66 outcomes from the 43 unique studies. Study publication dates ranged from 1989 to 2018 and represented diverse country settings. The most common implementation strategies were developing mechanisms for feedback, monitoring, and evaluation (n = 69); increasing awareness among the population (n = 58); involving stakeholders, workers, and consumers in the implementation efforts (n = 46); conducting workshops (n = 33); using mass media (n = 31); and building robust record systems to capture outcomes (n = 31). Coverage (n = 13) and morbidity (n = 12) were the most frequently identified outcomes, followed by effectiveness (n = 9) and fidelity (n = 6). Feasibility and sustainability were rarely evaluated. Conclusions: This review provides a catalogue of implementation strategies and outcomes relevant for advancing global health services delivery in LMICs drawing from the GPEI. Implementation strategies reviewed were poorly described and not adequately linked to outcomes. It calls for additional implementation research to unravel the mechanisms of implementation strategies and their effectiveness, and adaptation of the ERIC framework in LMICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 2021 World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on cervical cancer screening and treatment provide countries with evidence-based recommendations to accelerate disease elimination. However, evidence shows that health providers' adherence to screening guidelines is low. We conducted a study in Argentina to analyze health providers' knowledge and perceptions regarding the 2021 WHO Guidelines. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted based on individual, semi-structured interviews with health providers specializing in gynecology (n = 15). The themes explored were selected and analyzed using domains and constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Results: Although health providers perceive WHO as a reliable institution, they do not know the 2021 guidelines, its supporting evidence, and its elaboration process. Their clinical practice is mainly guided by local recommendations developed by national professional medical associations (PMAs). For interviewees, WHO guidelines should be disseminated through health authorities and national PMAs, mainly through in-service training. Health providers had a positive assessment regarding WHO Recommendation 1 (screen, triage, and treatment for women aged 30 + with HPV-testing every 5 to 10 years) and perceived a favorable climate for its implementation. HPV-testing followed by triage was considered a low-complexity practice, enabling a better detection of HPV, a better selection of the patients who will need diagnosis and treatment, and a more efficient use of health system resources. However, they suggested adapting this recommendation by removing screening interval beyond 5 years. WHO Recommendation 2 (screen-and-treat approach with HPV-testing for women aged 30 + every 5 to 10 years) was predominantly rejected by interviewees, was considered an algorithm that did not respond to women's needs, and was not adequate for the Argentinean context. Regarding the HPV-test modality, clinician-collected tests were the preferred mode. Health providers considered that HPV self-collection should be used primarily among socially vulnerable women to increase screening coverage. Conclusion: WHO guidelines should be widely disseminated among health providers, especially in settings that could benefit from a screen-and-treat approach. Identifying areas of partnership and collaboration with PMAs in implementing WHO guidelines is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor related angiogenesis is an attractive target in cancer therapeutic research due to its crucial role in tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. Different agents were developed aiming to inhibit this process; however they had limited success. Cancer vaccines could be a promising tool in anti-cancer/anti-angiogenic therapy. Cancer vaccines aim to initiate an immune response against cancer cells upon presentation of tumor antigens which hopefully will result in the eradication of disease and prevention of its recurrence by inducing an efficient and long-lasting immune response. Different vaccine constructs have been developed to achieve this and they could include either protein-based or nucleic acid-based vaccines. Nucleic acid vaccines are simple and relatively easy to produce, with high efficiency and safety, thus prompting a high interest in the field. Different DNA vaccines have been developed to target crucial regulators of tumor angiogenesis. Most of them were successful in pre-clinical studies, mostly when used in combination with other therapeutics, but had limited success in the clinic. Apparently, different tumor evasion mechanisms and reduced immunogenicity still limit the potential of these vaccines and there is plenty of room for improvement. Nowadays, mRNA cancer vaccines are making remarkable progress due to improvements in the manufacturing technology and represent a powerful potential alternative. Apart from their efficiency, mRNA vaccines are simple and cheap to produce, can encompass multiple targets simultaneously, and can be quickly transferred from bench to bedside. mRNA vaccines have already accomplished amazing results in cancer clinical trials, thus ensuring a bright future in the field, although no anti-angiogenic mRNA vaccines have been described yet. This review aims to describe recent advances in anti-angiogenic DNA vaccine therapy and to provide perspectives for use of revolutionary approaches such are mRNA vaccines for anti-angiogenic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An improved understanding of the Plasmodium vivax populations in the Great Mekong Subregion (GMS) is needed to monitor the progress of malaria elimination. This study aimed to use a P. vivax single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) barcode to evaluate the population dynamics and explore the gene flow among P. vivax parasite populations in the western GMS (China, Myanmar and Thailand). A total of 315 P. vivax patient samples collected in 2011 and 2018 from four regions of the western GMS were genotyped for 42 SNPs using the high-throughput MassARRAY SNP genotyping technology. Population genetic analysis was conducted to estimate the genetic diversity, effective population size, and population structure among the P. vivax populations. Overall, 291 samples were successfully genotyped at 39 SNPs. A significant difference was observed in the proportion of polyclonal infections among the five P. vivax populations (P = 0.0012, Pearson Chi-square test, χ2 = 18.1), with western Myanmar having the highest proportion (96.2%, 50/52) in 2018. Likewise, the average complexity of infection was also highest in western Myanmar (1.31) and lowest in northeast Myanmar (1.01) in 2018. The older samples from western China in 2011 had the highest pairwise nucleotide diversity (π, 0.388 ± 0.046), expected heterozygosity (He, 0.363 ± 0.02), and the largest effective population size. In comparison, in the neighboring northeast Myanmar, the more recent samples in 2018 showed the lowest values (π, 0.224 ± 0.036; He, 0.220 ± 0.026). Furthermore, the 2018 northeast Myanmar parasites showed high and moderate genetic differentiation from other populations with FST values of 0.162–0.252, whereas genetic differentiation among other populations was relatively low (FST ≤ 0.059). Principal component analysis, phylogeny, and STRUCTURE analysis showed that the P. vivax population in northeast Myanmar in 2018 substantially diverged from other populations. Although the 42 SNP barcode is a valuable tool for tracking parasite origins of worldwide parasite populations, a more extended barcode with additional SNPs is needed to distinguish the more related parasite populations in the western GMS. Author summary: In the Great Mekong Subregion (GMS), particularly in Myanmar, vivax malaria remains a significant challenge to malaria elimination. To effectively evaluate the impact of ongoing malaria control measures, it is essential to understand the genetic diversity, relatedness, and population dynamics of the malaria parasite. A comprehensive analysis of P. vivax populations in the western GMS using a global 42-SNP barcode revealed notable changes over time. Compared to the more homogeneous parasite populations a decade ago, there has been a decrease in genetic diversity and an increase in differentiation among parasite populations in recent years, particularly along the China-Myanmar border. In comparison, the 2018 parasites from western Myanmar showed a relatively stable genetic structure, underscoring the persistent challenge of vivax malaria in this region. While the 42-SNP barcode has been valuable in understanding the genetic landscape of global P. vivax populations, it has limitations in accurately differentiating parasite populations across the GMS, necessitating a barcode tailored to the local parasite populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health issue. We offer a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of HBV, which can be successfully controlled with vaccine and treatment. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes a significantly more severe and protracted disease compared to hepatitis A. While it initially presents as an acute disease, in approximately 5 to 10% of cases, it can develop into a chronic disease that causes permanent damage to the liver. The hepatitis B virus can remain active outside the body for at least seven days. If the virus penetrates an individual's body without immunization, it may still result in infection. Upon exposure to HBV, the symptoms often last for a duration ranging from 10 days to 6 months. In this study, we developed a new model for Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) that includes asymptomatic carriers, vaccination, and treatment classes to gain a comprehensive knowledge of HBV dynamics. The basic reproduction number R0 is calculated to identify future recurrence. The local and global stabilities of the proposed model are evaluated for values of R0 that are both below and above 1. The Lyapunov function is employed to ensure the global stability of the HBV model. Further, the existence and uniqueness of the proposed model are demonstrated. To look at the solution of the proposed model graphically, we used a useful numerical strategy, such as the non-standard finite difference method, to obtain more thorough numerical findings for the parameters that have a significant impact on disease elimination. In addition, the study of treatment class in the population, we may assess the effectiveness of alternative medicines to treat infected populations can be determined. Numerical simulations and graphical representations are employed to illustrate the implications of our theoretical conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We construct a model to investigate HIV/AIDS dynamics in real cases and study its mathematical analysis. The study examines the qualitative outcomes and confirms the local and global asymptotic stability of both the endemic equilibrium and the disease-free equilibrium. The model's criteria for exhibiting both local and global asymptotically stable behavior are examined. We compute the endemic equilibria and obtain the existence of a unique positive endemic equilibrium. The data is fitted to the model using the idea of nonlinear least-squares fitting. Accurate parameter values are achieved by fitting the data to the model using a 95% confidence interval. The basic reproduction number is computed using parameters that have been fitted or estimated. Sensitivity analysis is performed to discover the influential parameters that impact the reproduction number and the eradication of the disease. The results show that implementing preventive measures can reduce HIV/AIDS cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cooperation and networking are powerful tools in the combating against tropical diseases. Cooperation on a global scale is essential due to the transboundary nature of tropical diseases. Networking plays a pivotal role in facilitating such cooperation. Both cooperation and networking can foster innovation in disease control programmes. Collaborative research can lead to the development of new drugs and vaccines, while shared surveillance data can enable the early detection and control of disease epidemics. Therefore, consensus of cooperation and networking has been reached during the 7th Symposium on Surveillance-Response Systems Leading to Tropical Diseases Elimination, which reflected in the two documents, i.e., Consensus for Transboundary Tropical Diseases Control, and Action Consensus of the Network of WHO Collaborating Centres Related to NTDs. These documents will improve the efforts in the fighting against tropical diseases through collective actions to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main objectives of the World Health Organization is the eradication of viral hepatitis by 2030 by identifying subjects before disease progression. In 2019, only 21% of the 58 million people chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) had been diagnosed, while overall 13% had been treated. The key recommendation of international screening programs is to reach the people at major risk of viral hepatitis and the general population. National plans, including that in Italy, have dedicated budget lines to support efforts to achieve the objective of elimination. The Italian program involves free screening for HCV in the general population born between 1969 and 1989 and also for all persons in the care of addiction services (Ser.D) and prisoners. The screening programs differed slightly among regions in Italy. In particular, referring to the screening for people born in the period of 1969–1989, in Tuscany, these people received an invitation by SMS to undergo a HCV antibody test. If the test results were positive, the subject was registered on a regional platform and required to undergo HCV RNA testing, prescribed by their GP. In the case of testing positive for HCV RNA, the linkage to care (i.e., patient entry into specialist care after diagnosis) is guaranteed. A strong effort is currently required to eliminate HCV effectively. This review highlights the most recent changes to the epidemiological scenario at the global, European, Italian, and regional (Tuscany) levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a class of delayed fractional-order predation models with disease and cannibalism in the prey was studied. In addition, we considered the prey stage structure and the refuge effect. A Holling type-II functional response function was used to describe predator–prey interactions. First, the existence and uniform boundedness of the solutions of the systems without delay were proven. The local stability of the equilibrium point was also analyzed. Second, we used the digestion delay of predators as a bifurcation parameter to determine the conditions under which Hopf bifurcation occurs. Finally, a numerical simulation was performed to validate the obtained results. Numerical simulations have shown that cannibalism contributes to the elimination of disease in diseased prey populations. In addition, the size of the bifurcation point τ 0 decreased with an increase in the fractional order, and this had a significant effect on the stability of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaria vaccine introduction in endemic countries is a game-changing milestone in the fight against the disease. This article examines the inequity in the global pharmaceutical research, development, manufacturing, and trade landscape. The role of inequity in hindering progress towards malaria elimination is explored. The analysis finds that transformational changes are required to create an equity-enabling environment. Addressing the inequity is critical to maximizing the public health impact of vaccines and attaining sustainability. Avenues to catalyze progress by leveraging malaria vaccines and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) technology are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schistosomiasis is an old parasitic disease in Egypt primarily caused by Schistosoma mansoni, transmitted through infected water canals, and disproportionately affects rural areas. Despite substantial reductions in the disease prevalence over the years, it still affects more than 5% of the population in some governorates, highlighting the need for sustained control efforts. Among the recent control measures: (a) mass drug administration with large-scale, biannual administration of praziquantel, which remains the cornerstone of the control program targeting the interruption of vector transmission cycles. (b) Improving disease diagnostics, including point-of-care tests, which facilitate early detection and case management, particularly in remote areas. (c) Snail control using targeted mollusciciding aims to reduce parasite transmission by controlling intermediate snail hosts. And (d) behavioral change communication focusing on raising awareness regarding hygiene practices and safe water access. Even if control attempts have shown positive results, several challenges still exist, including (a) drug resistance, especially to praziquantel, the most commonly used drug, which calls for ongoing observation and monitoring. (b) Sustainability of funding to avoid program disruptions and setbacks. And (c) social and environmental factors like poverty, poor sanitation, and access to clean water. The transition from disease control to elimination requires meticulous planning and vigilance. Robust surveillance systems, enhanced case management, and continued community engagement are vital for such elimination. Strengthening research on drug resistance, snail control methods, and innovative diagnostics would further support elimination efforts. This report aims to address the most recent data regarding the prevalence and control measures for schistosomiasis in Egypt and provide the information required to lead the transition from disease control to elimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systems for disease vector control should be effective, efficient, and flexible to be able to tackle contemporary challenges and threats in the control and elimination of vector-borne diseases. As a priority activity towards the strengthening of vector control systems, it has been advocated that countries conduct a vector-control needs assessment. A review was carried out of the perceived needs for disease vector control programs among eleven countries and subnational states in South Asia and the Middle East. In each country or state, independent teams conducted vector control needs assessment with engagement of stakeholders. Important weaknesses were described for malaria, dengue and leishmaniases regarding vector surveillance, insecticide susceptibility testing, monitoring and evaluation of operations, entomological capacity and laboratory infrastructure. In addition, community mobilization and intersectoral collaboration showed important gaps. Countries and states expressed concern about insecticide resistance that could reduce the continued effectiveness of interventions, which demands improved monitoring. Moreover, attainment of disease elimination necessitates enhanced vector surveillance. Vector control needs assessment provided a useful planning tool for systematic strengthening of vector control systems. A limitation in conducting the vector control needs assessment was that it is time- and resource-intensive. To increase the feasibility and utility of national assessments, an abridged version of the guidance should focus on operationally relevant topics of the assessment. Similar reviews are needed in other regions with different contextual conditions. Author summary: Vector control can play a major role in the control and elimination of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue, leishmaniases and other vector-borne diseases. However, to reach its potential, national vector control systems should be adequately supported by vector surveillance, community participation and intersectoral collaboration. As a step towards strengthening vector control, it has been advocated that countries conduct a vector-control needs assessment. The authors reviewed the needs or gaps as perceived by stakeholders of disease vector control programs in eleven countries and subnational states in South Asia and the Middle East. Programs for control and elimination of malaria, dengue and leishmaniases had major shortcomings in vector surveillance and entomological capacity. This was a concern because vectors develop insecticide resistance which, if unchecked, could reduce the effectiveness of interventions. Also, attaining elimination of disease demands enhanced vector surveillance support. There were major gaps in community mobilization and intersectoral collaboration. The findings imply that vector control systems should adapt to the changing disease situation and adopt a cross-disease mandate. The authors propose improvements to the methods of needs assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoonotic hookworm infections remain a significant public health problem, causing nearly 500 million cases globally and approximately four million disability-adjusted life years lost annually. More than one-fifth of these cases are attributed to Ancylostoma ceylanicum, an emerging zoonotic health issue in the Asia-Pacific region. This review presents key research gaps regarding the epidemiology, diagnosis, control, prevention and elimination of A. ceylanicum and other canine zoonotic hookworms as neglected health threats. A. ceylanicum is the second most prevalent human hookworm in the region; it is the most common hookworm among dogs and cats-reservoirs of zoonotic infections. Previous population genetic and phylogenetic analyses revealed that A. ceylanicum has three possible transmission dynamics: zoonotic, animal-only, and human-only pathways. The actual burden of zoonotic ancylostomiasis in most endemic countries remains unknown due to the use of parasitological techniques (e.g., Kato-Katz thick smear and floatation techniques) that have reduced diagnostic performance and do not allow accurate species identification in helminth surveys. The emergence of benzimidazole resistance in soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), including hookworms, is a concern due to the protracted implementation of mass drug administration (MDA). Resistance is conferred by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that occur in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. These mutations have been reported in drug-resistant A. caninum but have not been found in A. ceylanicum in the field. A. ceylanicum remains understudied in the Asia-Pacific region. The zoonotic nature of the parasite warrants investigation of its occurrence in human and animal reservoir hosts to understand the dynamics of zoonotic transmission in different endemic foci. The detection of benzimidazole resistance-associated SNPs in zoonotic hookworms from Asia-Pacific countries has yet to be thoroughly explored. Considering the high level of hookworm endemicity in the region, the circulation of resistant isolates between humans and animals potentially presents a significant One Health threat that can undermine current MDA and proposed animal deworming-based control efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Schistosomiasis and fasciolosis are snail-borne diseases of great medical and veterinary health importance. The World Health Organization recommends complementing drug treatment with snail control and community involvement for disease elimination, but there is a general lack of snail experts and hence snail distribution data. Therefore, we adopted a citizen science approach and involved citizens in the monitoring of medically and veterinary important snail taxa. Materials and methods: Snail data was collected weekly by 25 trained citizen scientists (CSs) at 76 sites around southern Lake Albert (Uganda) for 20 months. At each site, snails were searched for 30 minutes, sorted, target snail hosts identified to genus level, counted and data submitted through a smartphone application. The quality of this data was assessed by comparing it to monthly data collected by an 'expert' malacologist using the same sampling protocol. Generalised binomial logistic and linear mixed-effects models were used to analyse the variables for agreement between the CSs and expert. Findings: The binary agreement in presence/absence of Biomphalaria, Bulinus and Radix snails reported by the expert and CSs ranged between 70% and 86% (900 reports) with an average of 17% false negatives (sites wrongly defined as snail-free). The agreement for Biomphalaria and Radix increased with snail abundance, and false negatives decreased when the number of snails collected by citizens was aggregated per month. Site type significantly predicted binary agreement, which was lowest at lake sites (55%) and highest at spring sites (99%) with variations across genera. Similar temporal trends in snail abundance were recorded despite the expert reporting higher abundance. However, the relative abundance was consistent across site types. The match between the sites with highest Biomphalaria spp. abundance identified by CSs and expert was consistently high (~84.1%) and increased over time. Conclusions and recommendations: Our results demonstrate the potential of citizen science to map putative schistosomiasis transmission sites. We therefore argue that this inclusive, powerful and cost-effective approach can be more sustainable than top-down monitoring and intervention campaigns. Author summary: Schistosomiasis is a snail-borne disease of great public health importance. Since drug treatment does not suffice to control the disease, the World Health Organisation now recommends including snail control and community involvement. Here we demonstrate how local inhabitants of an endemic region, after training, can detect snail populations with acceptable accuracy, at significantly lower cost. This citizen science approach could therefore generate unprecedented datasets in terms of spatiotemporal resolution and coverage. Moreover, it empowers communities and increases knowledge on snail-borne diseases and their control and prevention. We therefore argue that this community-based approach presents a valuable and sustainable compliment to classical surveillance programs, especially in remote areas, thereby generating the much-anticipated data and community support for targeted snail control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Our objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of adding alpha-pinene (a herbal terpenoid) to quadruple therapy compared to a placebo in improving symptoms and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication rates in Functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. Background: FD is a prevalent upper gastrointestinal condition, and no definitive pharmacological treatment is available for its management. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial on FD patients diagnosed with H. pylori infection. We collected baseline demographic data and assessed FD symptoms in the participants. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either standard quadruple therapy with α-pinene capsules (0.25 mg/day) or quadruple therapy with a placebo for two weeks. We employed a validated questionnaire, the Short Form Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire (SF-LDQ), to evaluate FD symptoms. The eradication rate of H. pylori was compared between the two groups one month after completing the treatment regimens. Any reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were documented throughout the trial. Results: Over four months, a total of 66 patients completed the trial. Notably, there were no significant differences in baseline SFLDQ scores between the two groups (p=0.83); however, a significant divergence emerged at the trial's conclusion (p=0.03). The H. pylori eradication rates did not show notable differences between the two treatment arms (p=0.43). Importantly, there were no dropouts from the trial due to ADRs. Among reported ADRs, participants experienced abdominal pain, headache, diarrhea, and a metallic taste, with no significant variance in incidence rates observed between the two groups (p=0.62). Conclusion: These findings suggest that α-pinene could be an effective and safe agent for reducing FD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While much progress has been made in the control and elimination of onchocerciasis across Africa, the extent to which vector migration might confound progress towards elimination or result in re-establishment of endemism in areas where transmission has been eliminated remains unclear. In Northern Ethiopia, Metema and Metekel—two foci located near the Sudan border—exhibit continuing transmission. While progress towards elimination has been faster in Metema, there remains a problematic hotspot of transmission. Whether migration from Metekel contributes to this is currently unknown. Methodology/Principle findings: To assess the role of vector migration from Metekel into Metema, we present a population genomics study of 151 adult female vectors using 47,638 RADseq markers and mtDNA CoI sequencing. From additional cytotaxonomy data we identified a new cytoform in Metema, closely related to S. damnosum s.str, here called the Gondar form. RADseq data strongly indicate the existence of two distinctly differentiated clusters within S. damnosum s.l.: one genotypic cluster found only in Metema, and the second found predominantly in Metekel. Because blackflies from both clusters were found in sympatry (in all four collection sites in Metema), but hybrid genotypes were not detected, there may be reproductive barriers preventing interbreeding. The dominant genotype in Metema was not found in Metekel while the dominant genotype in Metekel was found in Metema, indicating that (at the time of sampling) migration is primarily unidirectional, with flies moving from Metekel to Metema. There was strong differentiation between clusters but little genetic differentiation within clusters, suggesting migration and gene flow of flies within the same genetic cluster are sufficient to prevent genetic divergence between sites. Conclusions/Significance: Our results confirm that Metekel and Metema represent different transmission foci, but also indicate a northward movement of vectors between foci that may have epidemiological importance, although its significance requires further study. Author summary: Onchocerciasis is a severely debilitating disease caused by infection with a parasitic nematode worm (Onchocerca volvulus) transmitted from person to person by blood-sucking blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae). Ethiopia has set a goal to eliminate the transmission of onchocerciasis through administration of the drug ivermectin, with 80% coverage, to all endemic areas. One potential challenge that might impede elimination in Ethiopia (and elsewhere in Africa) is the movement of vector blackflies carrying parasites between endemic areas, leading to failure to eliminate transmission. Cytogenetic data are the primary means for delimiting vector species, and we report the detection of a new cytotaxonomic form in northwestern Ethiopia, the "Gondar form" of Simulium damnosum s.l. Comparisons of nuclear genetic diversity of vectors in northwest Ethiopia suggests genetic differentiation consistent with reduction in mating between flies from two foci of ongoing transmission–Metema and Metekel. These results further suggest movement of blackflies is likely from Metekel, an area with ongoing transmission, into Metema, an area where persistent hotspots of transmission have been recently identified. Further research is warranted to determine whether the migration of blackflies between these areas that results in the observed genetic similarity is occurring at a timescale epidemiologically relevant to the persistence of these transmission hotspots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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African swine fever (ASF) is one of the most severe suid diseases, impacting the pig industry and wild suid populations. Once an ASF vaccine is available, identifying a sufficient density of vaccination fields will be crucial to achieve eradication success. In 2020–2023, we live-trapped and monitored 27 wild boars in different areas of Lithuania, in which the wild boars were fed at artificial stations. We built a simulation study to estimate the probability of a successful ASF vaccination as a function of different eco-epidemiological factors. The average 32-day home range size across all individuals was 16.2 km2 (SD = 16.9). The wild boars made frequent visits of short durations to the feeding sites rather than long visits interposed by long periods of absence. A feeding site density of 0.5/km2 corresponded to an expected vaccination rate of only 20%. The vaccination probability increased to about 75% when the feeding site density was 1.0/km2. Our results suggest that at least one vaccination field/km2 should be used when planning an ASF vaccination campaign to ensure that everyone in the population has at least 5–10 vaccination sites available inside the home range. Similar studies should be conducted in the other ecological contexts in which ASF is present today or will be present in the future, with the objective being to estimate a context-specific relationship between wild boar movement patterns and an optimal vaccination strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) can be controlled with vaccines and biosecurity measures. Uncovering local strain diversity is expected to help better understand the disease epidemiology and viral evolutionary dynamics, which will contribute to more effective disease control and prevention. In Hungary, although sporadic virus genetic information has been available since the 1990s, a more systematic data collection was initiated only in the mid-2000s and was maximized after the eradication program started in the mid-2010s. In this study, we report on the origin and spread of co-circulating genetic lineages and clades of PRRSV in Hungary till 2020. This longitudinal molecular epidemiological survey was an important element of the national disease eradication program to achieve PRRS-free status in our country. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is the cause of the most severe economic losses in the pig industry worldwide. PRRSV is extremely diverse in Europe, which poses a significant challenge to disease control within a country or any region. With the combination of phylogenetic reconstruction and network analysis, we aimed to uncover the major routes of the dispersal of PRRSV clades within Hungary. In brief, by analyzing >2600 ORF5 sequences, we identified at least 12 clades (including 6 clades within lineage 1 and 3 clades within lineage 3) common in parts of Western Europe (including Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands) and identified 2 novel clades (designated X1 and X2). Of interest, some genetic clades unique to other central European countries, such as the Czech Republic and Poland, were not identified. The pattern of PRRSV clade distribution is consistent with the route of the pig trade among countries, showing that most of the identified clades were introduced from Western Europe when fatteners were transported to Hungary. As a result of rigorous implementation of the national eradication program, the swine population was declared officially free from PRRSV. This map of viral diversity and clade distribution will serve as valuable baseline information for the maintenance of PRRSV-free status in the post-eradication era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]