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Background We evaluated co-administration of adjuvanted seasonal quadrivalent influenza vaccine (FLU-aQIV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prefusion F protein-based vaccine (RSVPreF3 OA) in ≥65-year-olds. Methods This phase 3, open-label trial randomized ≥65-year-olds to receive FLU-aQIV and RSVPreF3 OA concomitantly (Co-Ad) or sequentially, 1 month apart (Control). Primary objectives were to demonstrate the non-inferiority of FLU-aQIV and RSVPreF3 OA co-administration versus sequential administration in terms of hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers for each FLU-aQIV strain and RSV-A and RSV-B neutralization titers, 1 month post-vaccination. Reactogenicity and safety were also assessed. Results Overall, 1045 participants were vaccinated (Co-Ad: 523; Control: 522). Non-inferiority of FLU-aQIV and RSVPreF3 OA co-administration versus sequential administration was demonstrated in terms of HI titers for the A/Victoria(H1N1), B/Victoria, and B/Yamagata influenza strains and RSV-A neutralization titers (upper limits [ULs] of 95% confidence intervals [CIs] for adjusted geometric mean titer [GMT] ratios [Control/Co-Ad] ≤1.50) but not for A/Darwin(H3N2) HI titers (95% CI UL = 1.53). The immune response to A/Darwin(H3N2) was further assessed post-hoc using a microneutralization assay; the post-vaccination adjusted GMT ratio (Control/Co-Ad) was 1.23 (95% CI: 1.06–1.42, ie, UL ≤1.50), suggesting an adequate immune response to A/Darwin(H3N2) following co-administration. RSV-B neutralization titers were comparable between groups (95% CI UL for adjusted GMT ratio ≤1.50). Solicited adverse events were mostly mild or moderate and transient; unsolicited and serious adverse event rates were balanced between groups. Conclusions Adjuvanted FLU-aQIV and RSVPreF3 OA had acceptable reactogenicity/safety profiles when co-administered in ≥65-year-olds, without clinically relevant interference with the immune responses to either vaccine. Clinical Trials Registration NCT05568797 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasmosis is one of the most widespread foodborne parasitic zoonoses caused by the obligate intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. Although a number of studies have reported on the seroprevalence and risk factors of T. gondii infection in ruminants in China, information about T. gondii infection in cattle in Hunan province of China is not available. Material and Methods: Sera of 985 cattle and 1147 goats were examined for the presence of specific antibodies against T. gondii using the indirect hemagglutination test. Some risk factors related to the presence of cats, herd size, gender, age, and geographical origin were determined using a binary logistic regression. Results: Specific IgG against T. gondii were detected in 8.3% (82/985) and 13.3% (153/1147) of the cattle and goats, respectively. Based on statistical analysis, the presence of cats and gender were considered important risk factors for T. gondii infection in cattle and goats in the farms in this study (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results provide a baseline for future prevention and control of T. gondii infection in cattle and goats in Hunan province, subtropical China. This is the first report of T. gondii seroprevalence in cattle in Hunan province, China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The present study aimed to investigate circulated Newcastle disease virus (NDV) genotypes, and avian influenza virus (AIV) co-infection among chicken flocks receiving NDV vaccines in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid governorate, Egypt. Ninety-eight clinical samples were collected from diseased chickens in 10 chicken farms during 2021. The virus propagation in embryonated chicken eggs was confirmed serologically by hemagglutination and hemagglutination inhibition tests and molecularly by RT-PCR using specific primers of the Fusion (F) gene and matrix gene of AIV. The results revealed that 15 isolates were NDV-positive, of them, four were AIV co-infected. The F genes amino acid sequence alignments for selected six isolates indicated two cleavage site motifs characteristic to lentogenic (1) and velogenic (5) strains. Also, specific amino acid substitutions in F1 and HRa regions correlated to fusion activity and neutralizing antibody production in the present velogenic isolates were observed. Phylogenetic analysis of the partial F gene sequences revealed the circulation of two genotypes, GII and GVII.1.1 (VIIj), in class II among vaccinated chicken flocks in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid governorate. In addition, velogenic isolates are segregated into a distinct sub-clade from NDVs isolated in southern and northern Egypt. In conclusion, this is the first report on the genetic characterization of NDV among vaccinated chicken flocks in Al-Wadi Al-Gadid governorate. The current data will contribute to the NDV endemicity, genetic evolution, and biosecurity measurements to overcome NDV infection in this promising area for poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study dealt with the extraction and purification of lectin from a marine polychaete collected from the Gadilam estuary. Polychaete samples were collected during the low tide mainly around the level of the mid tide. Collected polychaete species was identified using the standard identification keys described in the reference manuals as Perinereis cultrifera. Lectin was extracted from the polychaete and it was designated as 'PcL'. When the extracted PcL was tested for hemagglutination activity it showed a titer (as hemagglutination unit (HU) of 32 HU against rabbit erythrocytes, 1-2 HU against goat erythrocytes and no visible hemagglutination against the chicken erythrocytes. The effect of various sugars that inhibit the crude PcL's hemagglutination activity (sugar specificity) was tested against various sugars. The result showed galactose was the highest inhibitory among the other sugars tested with the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 6.25 mM. Partial purification was done using 60% ammonium sulphate saturation. The total protein, carbohydrate and lipid content was 22 mg/ml, 4.6 mg/ml and 0.027 mg/ml respectively. Purification of lectin was doneusing DEAE-Cellulose and DEAE-Sephadex A-50 column chromatography. After each column purification steps, the specific activity was increased and it was 890.4 U/mg and 1280 U/mg after DEAE-cellulose and DEAE-sephadex column chromatography, respectively. Likewise, the fold of purity was 6.3 and 9 after the column purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we measured B cell function in elderly healthy individuals (EH) and in elderly patients with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM, ET2DM), which are treatment-naive, as compared to healthy young (YH) individuals. Results show a higher serum inflammatory status of elderly versus young individuals, and especially of ET2DM versus EH. This status is associated with a reduced response to the seasonal influenza vaccine and with increased frequencies of the circulating pro-inflammatory B cell subset called Double Negative (DN) B cells. B cells from ET2DM patients are not only more inflammatory but also hyper-metabolic as compared to those from EH controls. The results herein are to our knowledge the first to show that T2DM superimposed on aging further increases systemic and B cell intrinsic inflammation, as well as dysfunctional humoral immunity. Our findings confirm and extend our previously published findings showing that inflammatory B cells are metabolically supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical blood shortages plague healthcare systems, particularly in lower-income and middle-income countries. This affects patients requiring regular transfusions and creates challenges during emergencies where universal blood is vital. To address these shortages and support blood banks during emergencies, this study reports a method for increasing the compatibility of blood group A red blood cells (RBCs) by blocking surface antigen-A using anti-A single chain fragment variable (scFv). To enhance stability, the scFv was first modified with the addition of interdomain disulfide bonds. The most effective location for this modification was found to be H44-L232 of mutant-1a scFv. ScFv was then produced from E.coli BL21(DE3) and purified using a three-step process. Purified scFvs were then used to block maximum number of antigens-A on RBCs, and it was found that only monomers were functional, while dimers formed through incorrect domain-swapping were non-functional. These antigen-blocked RBCs displayed no clumping in hemagglutination testing with incompatible blood plasma. The dissociation constant KD was found to be 0.724 μM. Antigen-blocked RBCs have the potential to be given to other blood groups during emergencies. This innovative approach could significantly increase the pool of usable blood, potentially saving countless lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay is a traditional laboratory procedure for detection and quantitation of serum antibodies of hemagglutinating viruses containing the hemagglutinin (HA) gene. The current study aimed to investigate the novel use of virus like particles (VLP) as an antigen for the HI assay. VLPs were prepared from a strain of H5N1 using a baculovirus expression system. The VLPs were characterized using the hemagglutination test, Sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), Western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy. The comparative HI assay was performed using three different seed antigens: A/chicken/Mexico/232/94 (H5N2), A/chicken/Egypt/18-H/09(H5N1) and A/goose/Guangdong/1/1996(H5N1). The HI assay of serum antibody titrations using homologous antigens to these vaccinal seeds were compared to the VLP's antigens for the same serum. The HI titers were logically relevant to the similarity between VLP antigens and vaccinal seeds, indicating the VLPs behave similarly to the standard HI assay which uses inactivated whole virus as an antigen. VLPs could be considered as an alternative to the HI assay antigen as they show a relatedness between the similarity with vaccinal seed and serum antibodies. Compared to typical entire H5N1 viral antigen prepared in SPF eggs that require proper inactivation to avoid any public health risk, VLPs prepared in tissue culture, plants or insect cells are a safe, inexpensive and scalable alternative to inactivated whole virus antigen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging data suggest that costimulation blockade with belatacept effectively controls humoral alloimmune responses. However, whether this effect may be deleterious for protective anti-infectious immunity remains poorly understood. We performed a mechanistic exploratory study in 23 kidney transplant recipients receiving either the calcineurin-inhibitor tacrolimus (Tac, n=14) or belatacept (n=9) evaluating different cellular immune responses after influenza vaccination such as activated T follicular Helper (Tfh), plasmablasts and H1N1 hemagglutinin (HA)-specific memory B cells (HA+mBC) by flow-cytometry, and anti-influenza antibodies by hemagglutination inhibition test (HI), at baseline and days 10, 30 and 90 post-vaccination. The proportion of CD4+CD54RACXCR5+Tfh was lower in belatacept than Tac patients at baseline (1.86%[1.25-3.03] vs 4.88%[2.40-8.27], p=0.01) and remained stable post-vaccination. At M3, HA+mBc were significantly higher in Tac-treated patients (0.56%[0.32-1.49] vs 0.27%[0.13-0.44], p=0.04) and correlated with activated Tfh numbers. When stratifying patients according to baseline HA+mBc frequencies, belatacept patients with low HA+mBC displayed significantly lower HA+mBc increases after vaccination than Tac patients (1.28[0.94-2.4] vs 2.54[1.73-5.70], p=0.04). Also, belatacept patients displayed significantly lower seroprotection rates against H1N1 at baseline than Tac-treated patients (44.4% vs 84.6%) as well as lower seroconversion rates at days 10, 30 and 90 after vaccination (50% vs 0%, 63.6% vs 0%, and 63.6% vs 0%, respectively). We show the efficacy of belatacept inhibiting T-dependent antigen-specific humoral immune responses, active immunization should be highly encouraged before starting belatacept therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the level of anti-hemagglutinin antibodies in blood sera collected from patients during the 2022/2023 epidemic season in Poland. A total of 700 sera samples from patients across the country were tested. The samples were divided into seven groups according to the age of the patients, with 100 samples from each age group. The hemagglutination inhibition test (OZHA) was used to determine the level of anti-hemagglutinin antibodies. The test results have confirmed the presence of anti-hemagglutinin antibodies for antigens A/Victoria/2570/2019 (H1N1)pdm09, A/Darwin/9/2021 (H3N2), B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Yamagata lineage) and B/ Phuket/3073/2013 (B/Victoria lineage) present in the influenza vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the 2022/2023 epidemic season. The highest geometric mean antibody titres (GMT) and protection rate values (%) were recorded for hemagglutinin A/H3N2. In Poland, in the 2022/2023 epidemic season, the percentage of the population vaccinated against influenza was 5.7%. Therefore, the test results can be interpreted as the response of the immune system in patients who have been previously infected with an influenza virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serological tests for the presence of antibodies to European brown hare syndrome virus and rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus type a and type 2 were performed on 275 samples of blood serum from the European brown hare by hemagglutination inhibition test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The presence of antibodies against European brown hare syndrome virus was 28% in the Czech Republic while in the Slovak Republic between 9–33%. Furthermore, the results showed the possibility of interspecies transmission, both rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus type a and rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus type 2 on the European brown hare. In case of RHDVa it is the first documented interspecies transmission, which has not yet been described. This study improved our knowledge about circulation of RHDV in Central European ecosystems and its possible ability to cross interspecies barriers. However, from an epizootiological point of view, it is likely European brown hare is not a significant source of RHD infection for domesticated rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Influenza viruses can cause zoonotic infections that pose public health risks. Surveillance of influenza A and B viruses is conducted globally; however, information on influenza C and D viruses is limited. Longitudinal monitoring of influenza C virus in humans has been conducted in several countries, but there has been no long‐term monitoring of influenza D virus in humans. The public health risks associated with the influenza D virus therefore remain unknown. Methods: We established a duplex real‐time RT‐PCR to detect influenza C and D viruses and analyzed respiratory specimens collected from 2144 patients in Japan with respiratory diseases between January 2018 and March 2023. We isolated viruses and conducted hemagglutination inhibition tests to examine antigenicity and focus reduction assays to determine susceptibility to the cap‐dependent endonuclease inhibitor baloxavir marboxil. Results: We detected three influenza C viruses belonging to the C/Kanagawa‐ or C/Sao Paulo‐lineages, which recently circulated globally. None of the specimens was positive for the influenza D virus. The C/Yokohama/1/2022 strain, isolated from the specimen with the highest viral RNA load and belonging to the C/Kanagawa‐lineage, showed similar antigenicity to the reference C/Kanagawa‐lineage strain and was susceptible to baloxavir. Conclusions: Our duplex real‐time RT‐PCR is useful for the simultaneous detection of influenza C and D viruses from the same specimen. Adding the influenza D virus to the monitoring of the influenza C virus would help in assessing the public health risks posed by this virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza are both typically seasonal diseases, with winter peaks in temperate climates. Coadministration of an RSV vaccine and influenza vaccine could be a benefit, requiring 1 rather than 2 visits to a healthcare provider for individuals receiving both vaccines. Methods The primary immunogenicity objective of this phase 3, 1:1 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy adults aged ≥65 years in Australia was to demonstrate noninferiority of immune responses with coadministration of the stabilized RSV prefusion F protein–based vaccine (RSVpreF) and seasonal inactivated influenza vaccine (SIIV) versus SIIV or RSVpreF administered alone, using a 1.5-fold noninferiority margin (lower bound 95% confidence interval >.667). Safety and tolerability were evaluated by collecting reactogenicity and adverse event data. Results Of 1403 participants randomized, 1399 received vaccinations (median age, 70; range, 65‒91 years). Local reactions and systemic events were mostly mild or moderate when RSVpreF was coadministered with SIIV or administered alone. No vaccine-related serious adverse events were reported. Geometric mean ratios were 0.86 for RSV-A and 0.85 for RSV-B neutralizing titers at 1 month after RSVpreF administration and 0.77 to 0.90 for strain-specific hemagglutination inhibition assay titers at 1 month after SIIV. All comparisons achieved the prespecified 1.5-fold noninferiority margin. Conclusions The primary study objectives were met, demonstrating noninferiority of RSVpreF and SIIV immune responses when RSVpreF was coadministered with SIIV and that RSVpreF had an acceptable safety and tolerability profile when coadministered with SIIV. The results of this study support coadministration of RSVpreF and SIIV in an older-adult population. Clinical Trials Registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05301322. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strangles is a highly contagious disease of the equine upper respiratory tract caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies. Streptococcus equi subsp. equi (S. equi) and Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (S. zooepidemicus) was isolated, as local, hot, and field strains, from horses clinically suffering from respiratory distress. The isolated Streptococci were identified using bacteriological and molecular techniques. Four formulations of inactivated S. equi vaccines were developed and evaluated. The first formulation was prepared using the S. equi isolates, adjuvanted with MONTANIDE GEL adjuvant, while the second formulation was adjuvanted with MONTANIDE ISA-70 adjuvant. The other 2 formulations were inactivated combined vaccines prepared from both S. equi and S. zooepidemicus isolates. The 3rd formulation was the combined isolates adjuvanted with MONTANIDE GEL while the 4th formulation was the combined isolates adjuvanted with MONTANIDE ISA-70. The developed vaccines' physical properties, purity, sterility, safety, and potency were ensured. The immunizing efficacy was determined in isogenic BALB/c mice and white New Zealand rabbits using the passive hemagglutination test. Also, the antibodies' titer of the combined S. equi and S. zooepidemicus vaccine adjuvanted with MONTANIDE ISA-70 in foals was tracked using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protective efficacy of the developed vaccines was determined using a challenge test in both laboratory and field animal models, where a 75% protection rate was achieved. The combined vaccine proved to be more efficacious than the monovalent vaccine. Also, the MONTANIDE ISA-70 adjuvant provided significant protective efficacy than the MONTANIDE GEL. The current work is introducing a very promising mitigative and strategic controlling solution for strangles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cranberries have a long history of use in the prevention of urinary tract infections. Cranberry products vary in proanthocyanidin content, a compound implicated in preventing the adhesion of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) to uroepithelial cells. Testing is routinely done by cranberry product formulators to evaluate in vitro bacterial anti-adhesion bioactivity, shelf-life, and potential efficacy of cranberry products for consumer use to maintain urinary tract health. Hemagglutination assays evaluate the anti-adhesion bioactivity of cranberry products by determining how effectively the products prevent agglutination of specific red blood cells with E. coli expressing P-type and Type 1 fimbriae. The current study sought to improve upon an established anti-adhesion assay method by expanding the number of E. coli strains used to broaden potential in vivo efficacy implications and presenting results using photomicrographic data to improve accuracy and build databases on products that are routinely tested. Different lots of cranberry powder ingredient and two formulated products were tested independently for anti-adhesion activity using the established method and the improved method. Positive harmonization of results on the same samples using rigorous controls was achieved and provides the substantiation needed for the cranberry industry to utilize the improved, rapid in vitro testing method to standardize cranberry products for sufficient anti-adhesion bioactivity and maintain consumer confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal antibodies in egg yolks provide the initial protection for embryos after hatching. Newcastle disease virus is one of the viruses that causes mortality in chickens of all ages. This study aimed to analyze the Newcastle disease virus titer in the egg yolks of IPB-D2 chickens (Institut Pertanian Bogor-D2). Seventy-two eggs were collected from 12 IPB-D2 chickens with two repetitions over three periods, using a hemagglutination test for Newcastle disease titer. The hemagglutination test results were analyzed using geometric mean titers and descriptive analysis. The protection levels for Period I were 55%, Period II was 71%, and Period III was 70%, respectively. The egg weight was 40.11±3.61 grams, the hatch weight was 32.12±4.62 grams, and the body weight at four weeks was 288.2±59.42 grams, respectively. The phenotypic correlation of Newcastle antibody in egg yolks with egg weight and hatch weight showed significant differences but there was not statistically significant with body weight at four weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the Project was to obtain safe, highly therapeutic anti-staphylococcal polyclonal purified immunoglobulin, which will help patients suffering from a severe form of staphylococcal infection to recover. The works and studies to develop immunoglobulin were including the following: selection of Staphylococci, obtaining and determining an activity of immunogens such as alpha-anatoxin, PV-leukocidin and hyaluronidase; Immunization of producer animals (goats) with immunogens; reception of hyper immune serum and extraction of immunoglobulin fraction; enzymatic processing of antibodies to obtain a harmless medicine (preparation); final product controls. 30 strains (Staphylococcus aures -24, Staphylococcus epidermidis -6) having the stable characteristics were selected out of 102 strains collected from several Georgian Clinics, also one German and two strains from USA were used in these studies. In order to obtain immune serum, the producer animals, have been vaccinated according to a pre-developed immunization schedule, with increasing doses of immunogens, with the addition of adjuvants. In the normal (K), immune serum and immunoglobulin the protective Antibody Titer was determined. For this purpose, hemolysis reaction (Lh), passive hemagglutination test (using dry diagnostic test systems) and immunoenzymatic analysis ("Sandwich-ELISA" method) were used. Antibody titer in immune preparations in hemolysis reaction to alphatoxin was 150 IU/ml, in normal serum -0.5-1.0 IU/ml;The titer of Antibacterial Antibodies in the passive hemagglutination reaction was found to be as -1:6400 - 1:12800, of the anti-leukocidin antibodies - 1:640-1:1280, and for hyaluronidase - 1:160-1:320, the titer of the same antibodies in normal serum ranged from 1:10 to 1:40. These antibodies were determined by immunoenzymatic analyzes method. The average data of normal serum against alpha-toxin was 0.081; The index of positivity to the same toxin in immune serum amounted to 10.08; The index of positivity of antibacterial antibodies was equal to 9.2517. PV-leukocidin positivity index -4.3968, and hyaluronidase -0.9214. To remove anaphylactogenic Fc fragments from antibody molecules, we used enzyme (Pepsin) proccesing with a special kit "PierceTM Fab Preparation Kit, USA". The medicine (preparation) tested in accordance with the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia was found to be sterile, non-toxic, reactogenic, stable and non-pyrogenic. Purified immunoglobulin's subcutaneous injection with the dose of 5 IU/ml -0.5 ml, protected 91.7% of white mice from an unconditionally lethal (Del) dose of pathogenic staphylococcus. Whereas mortality in control animals group was 100%. Thus, a harmless medicine (preparation) of Antistaphylococcal purified Polyclonal Immunoglobulin, with high healing properties have been obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present here research seeking to develop an automated method for determining blood groups. Agglutination reactions are detected by photometry of the test sample, which consists of a sessile drop, along with application of mechanical influences to the samples. The influences of the nature of mechanical vibrations on the distribution of immune complexes in the study samples were demonstrated experimentally. A mechanical vibration mode was selected and experimentally grounded for detection of immunological reactions in samples containing monoclonal antibodies and human blood. This method can provide the basis for creating a device for blood group determination and for identifying donor/recipient compatibility during surgical interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the epidemiological situation of avian influenza viruses (AIV) and the molecular identification of the different AIV subtypes circulating among chickens and duck farms in South Egypt. A total of 143 samples were collected from chicken and duck farms in Qena (n = 105) and Luxor (n=38) governorates during 2020. The organs and swabs were collected from diseased chickens and healthy ducks. The viruses were isolated in embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs) and their propagation was confirmed by hemagglutination test (AHT) and molecular detection of matrix gene by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). AIV subtypes were identified by RT-PCR and specific primers. Phylogenetic analysis of sequenced partial H5, N2, and N8 genes was performed. The results revealed that 15 AIVs were subtyped to 2 H5N2, 2 H5N8, 8 H5Nx, and 2 H9N2. While an isolate could not be subtyped by used primers. The H5-based evolutionary tree of 4 isolates revealed their categorization with the 2.3.4.4b clade with close relation to H5N8 isolates from Egypt in 2021 and Kazakhstan in 2020. In conclusion, the occurrence of H5 and H9 viruses pays attention to a public health concern. Also, non-identified HxNx reveals a new AIV HA and NA subtype may be present among chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Syphilis has serious consequences for human health and poses challenges for biological diagnosis. Techniques such as chemiluminescence are still poorly known in our context. Our objective was to compare chemiluminescence and hemagglutination assays with immunoblot as a reference test for detecting anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies. Methods: Anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies were detected in serum samples. Comparison of chemiluminescence and hemagglutination assays was carried out with immunoblot as the reference test, based on sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and kappa statistic, using IBM-SPSS version 24 software. The significance level was set at 5%. Results: A total of 600 participants were recruited, with a prevalence of syphilis infection of 3%. Sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 96.2% for chemiluminescence, and 93.8% and 100% for hemagglutination, respectively. Cohen's kappa statistic between the two tests showed satisfactory agreement (0.768). Cohen's kappa agreements between chemiluminescence/immunoblot and plate hemagglutination assay/immunoblot were greater than 0.8, indicating excellent agreement with the reference test (p

Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovipneumoniae) causes a fatal infection in goats, leading to significant economic losses in the small-ruminant industry worldwide. The present study aimed to characterize the strains of M. ovipneumoniae infecting goats with pneumonia in Anhui Province, China. From November 2021 to January 2023, among 20 flocks, a total of 1320 samples (600 samples of unvaccinated blood, 400 nasal swabs, 200 samples of pleural fluid, and 120 samples of lung tissue) were obtained from goats with typical signs of pneumonia, such as a low growth rate, appetite suppression, increased temperature, discharge from the nose, and a cough. Necropsied goats showed increased pleural fluid, fibrinous pleuropneumonia, and attached localized pleural adhesions. M. ovipneumoniae isolated from the samples were subjected to an indirect hemagglutination test (IHA), PCR amplicon sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and biochemical identification tests. The overall positivity rate of M. ovipneumoniae was 27.50%. Mycoplasmas were obtained from 80 (20.0%) nasal swabs, 21 (10.5%) pleural fluid samples, and 15 (12.5%) lung samples. PCR amplicon (288 bp) sequencing identified eight strains of M. ovipneumoniae. In a phylogenetic tree, the isolated strains were homologous to the standard strain M. ovipneumoniae Y-98 and most similar to M. ovipneumoniae FJ-SM. Local strains of M. ovipneumoniae were isolated from goats in Anhui province. The identified genomic features and population structure will promote further study of M. ovipneumoniae pathogenesis and could form the basis for vaccine and therapy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Our previous study established a 2-dose regimen of high-dose trivalent influenza vaccine (HD-TIV) to be immunogenically superior compared to a 2-dose regimen of standard-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccine (SD-QIV) in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients. However, the durability of immunogenicity and the role of time post-HCT at immunization as an effect modifier are unknown. Methods This phase II, multi-center, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial compared HD-TIV to SD-QIV in children 3–17 years old who were 3–35 months post-allogeneic HCT, with each formulation administered twice, 28–42 days apart. Hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) titers were measured at baseline, 28–42 days following each dose, and 138–222 days after the second dose. Using linear mixed effects models, we estimated adjusted geometric mean HAI titer ratios (aGMR: HD-TIV/SD-QIV) to influenza antigens. Early and late periods were defined as 3–5 and 6–35 months post-HCT, respectively. Results During 3 influenza seasons (2016–2019), 170 participants were randomized to receive HD-TIV (n = 85) or SD-QIV (n = 85). HAI titers maintained significant elevations above baseline for both vaccine formulations, although the relative immunogenic benefit of HD-TIV to SD-QIV waned during the study. A 2-dose series of HD-TIV administered late post-HCT was associated with higher GMTs compared to the early post-HCT period (late group: A/H1N1 aGMR = 2.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.14–4.08]; A/H3N2 aGMR = 3.20, 95% CI = [1.60–6.39]; B/Victoria aGMR = 1.91, 95% CI = [1.01–3.60]; early group: A/H1N1 aGMR = 1.03, 95% CI = [0.59–1.80]; A/H3N2 aGMR = 1.23, 95% CI = [0.68–2.25]; B/Victoria aGMR = 1.06, 95% CI = [0.56–2.03]). Conclusions Two doses of HD-TIV were more immunogenic than SD-QIV, especially when administered ≥6 months post-HCT. Both groups maintained higher titers compared to baseline throughout the season. Clinical Trials Registration NCT02860039. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The immunogenicity of the standard influenza vaccine is reduced in solid-organ transplant (SOT) recipients, so new vaccination strategies are needed in this population. Methods Adult SOT recipients from 9 transplant clinics in Switzerland and Spain were enrolled if they were >3 months after transplantation. Patients were randomized (1:1:1) to a MF59-adjuvanted or a high-dose vaccine (intervention), or a standard vaccine (control), with stratification by organ and time from transplant. The primary outcome was vaccine response rate, defined as a ≥4-fold increase of hemagglutination-inhibition titers to at least 1 vaccine strain at 28 days postvaccination. Secondary outcomes included polymerase chain reaction–confirmed influenza and vaccine reactogenicity. Results A total of 619 patients were randomized, 616 received the assigned vaccines, and 598 had serum available for analysis of the primary endpoint (standard, n = 198; MF59-adjuvanted, n = 205; high-dose, n = 195 patients). Vaccine response rates were 42% (84/198) in the standard vaccine group, 60% (122/205) in the MF59-adjuvanted vaccine group, and 66% (129/195) in the high-dose vaccine group (difference in intervention vaccines vs standard vaccine, 0.20; 97.5% confidence interval [CI],.12–1); P <.001; difference in high-dose vs standard vaccine, 0.24 [95% CI,.16–1]; P <.001; difference in MF59-adjuvanted vs standard vaccine, 0.17 [97.5% CI,.08–1]; P <.001). Influenza occurred in 6% of the standard, 5% in the MF59-adjuvanted, and 7% in the high-dose vaccine groups. Vaccine-related adverse events occurred more frequently in the intervention vaccine groups, but most of the events were mild. Conclusions In SOT recipients, use of an MF59-adjuvanted or a high-dose influenza vaccine was safe and resulted in a higher vaccine response rate. Clinical Trials Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03699839. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immunological abnormalities are implicated in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Due to the drug-related adverse effects of currently available orthodox immunomodulators, natural immunomodulators are being looked upon as potential agents to replace them in therapeutic regimens. This research aimed to investigate the immunomodulatory potential of L. micranthus extracts epiphytic on Psidium guajava (LMPGE) and Parkia biglobosa (LMPBE). Methods: Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity testing were carried out to identify the phytoconstituents and safety profiles of the extracts. The extracts' innate and adaptive immunomodulatory potentials were determined in experimental animals using in vivo leucocyte mobilization, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, hemagglutination antibody titre, and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression models. Levamisole was used as the standard drug throughout the study. Results: Compared to LMPBE, LMPGE contained significantly (p < 0.05) more tannins, cyanogenic glycosides, saponins, reducing sugars, glycosides, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Furthermore, the groups treated with the extracts had a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the total number of leucocytes, neutrophils, basophils, and antibody titers relative to the untreated control. In the same way, the treatment raised TLC in cyclophosphamide-intoxicated rats, with 250 mg/kg b. w. of LMPGE and LMPBE recording 9712.50 ± 178.00 and 8000.00 ± 105.00 × 109 /L, respectively, compared to 3425.00 ± 2 5.00 × 109 /L in the untreated group. Overall, LMPGE was more effective. Conclusions: The findings from this study suggest that L. micranthus epiphytic in Psidium guajava and Parkia biglobosa has possible immune stimulating potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echinococcosis is the most common cestode infection globally caused by the Echinococcus species. The most common organ involvement is the lungs and liver, but other organs can be rarely involved. Here, we present a case with a giant cerebral hydatid cyst. A 4-year-old boy presented with abnormal gait and walking at Marmara University School of Medicine Pendik Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye in September 2022. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed a cyst of 13 cm in diameter. The cyst was enucleated successfully with no rupture. Oral albendazole therapy was started. There was no eosinophilia, and the echinococcal indirect hemagglutination test was negative. Ultrasonography detected an anechoic cystic lesion in the liver. He was evaluated for deeporgan involvement; however, no cysts were detected in other organs. The histopathological examination was compatible with a hydatid cyst. Although intracranial hydatid disease in children is rare, it should be considered among the differential diagnoses in patients with neurological symptoms, especially in endemic regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV) is a significant pathogen that causes respiratory diseases in dogs, collectively known as a canine infectious respiratory disease. The virus is highly contagious and exhibits high seroprevalence worldwide. Currently, bovine coronavirus (BCoV) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits are used to detect CRCoV antibodies. However, BCoV-ELISA kits cannot differentiate between infections caused by BCoV and those caused by CRCoV. In this study, we evaluated the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test for CRCoV by comparing it with the virus neutralization (VN) test. Subsequently, we evaluated the seroprevalence of CRCoV in 383 dog serum samples collected from South Korea utilizing the HI test. The HI test for CRCoV showed a strong correlation with the VN test (R = 0.83, p < 0.001). The analysis of seroprevalence revealed that 52.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 47.2%–57.1%) of the Korean dog serum samples were positive. The seroprevalence exhibited varied with age, with a positivity rate of 43.9% in dogs under 1 year of age and 66.7% in dogs aged 3 to 5 years (odds ratio, 2.54; 95% CI, 1.43–4.59). In conclusion, the HI test to monitor CRCoV antibody proved to be closely related to the VN test. Furthermore, over half of the dogs in Korea tested positive for CRCoV antibodies. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the sero-epidemiology of CRCoV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the presence of antibodies against CaHV-1, CDV, and CPV-2 in serum samples from Brazilian wild carnivore species. Nine maned wolves and six crab-eating foxes were tested for CaHV-1 and CDV by virus neutralization test and CPV-2 by hemagglutination inhibition assay. Antibodies to CaHV-1, CDV, and CPV-2 were detected in serum samples of 1 (6.7%), 5 (33.3%), and 10 (66.7%) wild carnivores, respectively. Two maned wolves and one crab-eating fox were seropositive simultaneously for CDV and CPV-2. Antibodies against all viruses were detected in one crab-eating fox. This is the first report of CaHV-1 antibody detection in crab-eating foxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Syphilis has serious consequences for human health and poses challenges for biological diagnosis. Techniques such as chemiluminescence are still poorly known in our context. Our objective was to compare chemiluminescence and hemagglutination assays with immunoblot as a reference test for detecting anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies. Methods: Anti-Treponema pallidum antibodies were detected in serum samples. Comparison of chemiluminescence and hemagglutination assays was carried out with immunoblot as the reference test, based on sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and kappa statistic, using IBM-SPSS version 24 software. The significance level was set at 5%. Results: A total of 600 participants were recruited, with a prevalence of syphilis infection of 3%. Sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 96.2% for chemiluminescence, and 93.8% and 100% for hemagglutination, respectively. Cohen's kappa statistic between the two tests showed satisfactory agreement (0.768). Cohen's kappa agreements between chemiluminescence/immunoblot and plate hemagglutination assay/immunoblot were greater than 0.8, indicating excellent agreement with the reference test (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Chemiluminescence is more sensitive but less specific than hemagglutination. The use of chemiluminescence as a first-line test for the diagnosis of syphilis should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis and brucellosis can imitate each other in terms of clinical and laboratory fndings, but their co-infection is rarely reported. The current case report will present such an uncommon co-infection. A 56-year-old farmer was admitted with complaints of disorientation and weight loss. He was infected with both tuberculosis and brucellosis. Cervical lymph node biopsy confrmed the diagnosis of tuberculosis, and hemagglutination test verifed the diagnosis of brucellosis. Although tuberculous meningitis clinic is known to have a severe course, its coexistence with brucella infection should be investigated in instances that do not respond to therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maintenance of immune system integrity is a vital requirement to protect human body against pathogens/cancers. Natural compounds have long been used due to their benefits for the immune system. One of which is bee venom that contains a peptide called melittin having antimicrobial and anticancer effects. Since a limited number of studies regarding the effects of melittin on the immune system have been carried out, we aimed to evaluate the effects of melittin on BALB/c mice immune system parameters. Methods: Female BALB /c mice were treated intraperitoneally (i.p) with 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg doses of melittin for 14 days (5 doses per week). The negative control group received i.p normal saline whereas the positive controls received i.p 20 mg/kg cyclophosphamide (CYP). Immunological parameters such as hematological parameters, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH), hemagglutination titer (HA), spleen cellularity, splenocytes proliferation, as well as spleen and bone marrow histopathological assessment were evaluated. Results: Our findings showed that melittin has no gross pathological effect on the spleen and bone marrow. It was also demonstrated that melittin has no any significant effect on hematological parameters. Melittin did not cause any significant changes to proliferation response of splenocytes to PHA and LPS, spleen cellularity, DTH response, as well as the production of anti-SRBC antibodies. According to our results, melittin at 0.75 and 1.5 mg/kg doses could not induce significant changes on immune parameters and as a result, melittin was found to be safe for the mice immune system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light is an important factor in the functioning of the body of birds, especially the immune system. Management of the lighting program in closed systems of poultry production, mainly by affecting the concentration of melatonin, can be operational on the effectiveness of vaccination. Newcastle disease can cause extensive damage to the poultry industry. Therefore, its timely diagnosis and assessment of the success of vaccination with methods such as the hemagglutination inhibition test are of particular importance. This study investigated the effect of two photoperiods on antibody titer against Newcastle virus following vaccination. Four groups of Ross broilers were examined for six weeks. Groups A and B received the live Newcastle vaccine twice, and groups C and D were not vaccinated against Newcastle. Groups A and C received a lighting program from the management handbook of Ross Broiler, and groups B and D received the continuous lighting program (23L:1D). During the breeding period, blood samples were taken six times from each group, and the HI test measured the antibody titer. The results showed that despite the higher antibody titer in group B compared to group A, this difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). The feed conversion rate was higher in the groups that received the continuous photoperiod, and their mortality rate was lower than that of the other two groups. Comparing the results of the present study with those of various studies and articles shows the importance of the lighting regime in the success of vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Sickle Cell Disease is the second most common hemoglobinopathy after thalassemia and is characterized by vascular occlusion and hemolytic anemia. Blood transfusion is considered as a supportive treatment for patients with sickle cell disease. The alloimmunization of red blood cells is a major challenge in these patients. Accordingly, supplying the appropriate antigennegative blood units is a major problem in blood transfusion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the alloimmunization rates among individuals with Sickle Cell Disease in Khuzestan province. Materials and Methods In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a total of 184 patients with sickle cell anemia and sickle-thalassemia were referred to the Shahid Beqaei hospital in Ahvaz. 5-10 mL of peripheral blood containing the anticoagulant EDTA was collected by non-random sampling procedure. The prevalence of phenotypes and the rate of alloimmunization were determined by the hemagglutination technique. Results The prevalence of alloimmunization in this population was 13.0%. In 24 patients, twelve types of alloantibodies were detected. The most common alloantibodies were Anti-E (33.3%, n = 8), Anti-c (20.8%, n = 5), Anti-D (16.6%, n = 4), and Anti- Kell (16.6%, n = 4). Conclusions Antibody against Rh blood group system and anti-Kell were the most prevalent alloantibodies among sickle cell anemia patients in the province of Khuzestan. Therefore, it is highly recommended to transfuse these individuals with blood units compatible with the Rh (D, C, c, and E) and Kell antigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the journal Pediatric Radiology, discusses the case of a 7-year-old girl who presented with progressive headaches and numbness in her left foot. Imaging tests revealed a large cystic lesion in the right cerebral hemisphere, causing subfalcine herniation towards the left. The cystic lesion was compressing the left lateral ventricle and likely causing dilatation of the anterior horn. The patient was diagnosed with a primary intracranial hydatid cyst, which was confirmed by pathology results. The authors of the article contributed to the conceptualization, investigation, and writing of the manuscript. The article does not report any conflicts of interest, and the publisher remains neutral. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: We aimed to determine the reliability of indirect hemagglutination test and its relationship with cyst characteristics in cystic echinococcosis. Methods: The study included 275 cases with indirect hemagglutination test requisition in Siirt; 23 of them were histopathologically examined and 17 of them were diagnosed as cystic echinococcosis. Indirect hemagglutination values (positive: ≥1/160 titrations) and patient and cyst characteristics were recorded. Accuracy rate, sensitivity, and specificity of the indirect hemagglutination test were calculated by comparing the histopathological diagnosis. The relationship between indirect hemagglutination titers and cyst characteristics was investigated. Results: Seventeen cases had cystic echinococcosis diagnosis by indirect hemagglutination test and/or histopathology. Female : male ratio was 1.8 : 1 (P < .003), and mean age was higher in women (29.5) than in men (14.1) (P < .031). There was only 1 false-negative case in the indirect hemagglutination test. The accuracy rate, sensitivity, and specificity of the indirect hemagglutination test for detecting cystic echinococcosis were 96%, 94%, and 100%, respectively. The most common cyst localization was the liver (58.8%). Among indirect hemagglutination-positive cases, the largest cyst had the highest indirect hemagglutination titration. Liver-located cases had the highest titration level, while lung-located ones had the lowest. The lowest titration level was only seen in the cases with a single cyst, while most cases with the highest titration level had multiple cysts. Conclusion: Cystic echinococcosis is a common public health problem especially in eastern Turkey. Indirect hemagglutination is a reliable, practical, and inexpensive method for both diagnosis and follow-up. We presented the first study that deals with the data of Siirt regarding cystic echinococcosis, but large-scale studies are needed for more information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 66-year-old unemployed unmarried male with known men sex men activity since the age of 20 years presented with an erythematous well-defined ulcer on the lower lip and multiple discrete papulo-squamous lesions on the palms, soles, and scrotum. The patient was also in dysphoric mood with grandiose ideas with normal higher function. Knee and ankle jerk reflexes were absent and there was impaired tandem walking. Venereal Disease Research Laboratory (VDRL) and treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay were positive. Cerebrospinal fluid-VDRL was positive with grossly elevated proteins and glucose. HIV test was negative. Magnetic resonance imaging scan of the brain was normal. We made a diagnosis of neurosphilis – General paralysis of insane (GPI) with co-existing early syphilis. The patient was started on crystalline penicillin for 14 days after which there was significant improvement in behavior. We are reporting a rare case of GPI with early syphilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study demonstrates the immunomodulatory properties of Carica papaya extract to counter experimental coccidiosis. For this purpose, one hundred and seventy-five chicks were placed into 05 groups to evaluate immunomodulatory effects of C. papaya extract. At 7th day, chicks of all groups were fed with sporulated oocysts of different Eimeria species. Members of groups A, B and C were treated with three doses of C. papaya extract (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg of body weight) distinctly. Members of group D were fed with Vitamin-E and served as positive control while Group E was treated with PBS and served as negative Control Group. PHA-P, Carbon Clearance Assay, CON-A and Dinitrochlorobenzene tests were performed for the evaluation of cell mediated immune response. Humoral immune response was evaluated by performing hemagglutination test. Statistical analyses revealed that groups treated with C. papaya extract had a stronger cellular and humoral response against coccidiosis. However, the immunological response was excellent in the group treated with C. papaya extract at dose rate of 300mg. This shows the potential of C. papaya to be used in coccidiosis control programs, but further studies are required to evaluate its complete potential as anticoccidial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic gave rise to studies investigating the association of ABO blood group with COVID-19 susceptibility. It is hypothesized that ABO antibodies might play a role in neutralizing SARS-CoV-2. However, ABO antibodies were exclusively analyzed in blood samples. Investigation of ABO antibodies in saliva, an easy-to-obtain surrogate for respiratory secretions, may provide novel insights into mucosal immunity crucial in early defense against respiratory pathogens. Methods: In this study, saliva and serum samples from healthy individuals with known blood groups were investigated using a flow cytometric method for separate anti-A/anti-B IgA, IgM, and IgG class antibody detection. Saliva samples were additionally tested using hemagglutination-based neutral and indirect anti-human globulin test gel cards. This method comparison was complemented by dilution experiments with a high-titer anti-A/anti-B WHO standard. Results: In saliva, IgA was the most abundant ABO antibody class, followed by IgM; IgG was detected only in low levels in all non-AB blood types. In serum, IgM was the predominant ABO antibody class in all non-AB blood types, followed by IgA and IgG, the latter mainly detected in group O individuals. Saliva and serum samples of group O individuals yielded the highest variability of ABO-specific antibody levels. Regardless of sample material and blood type, major interindividual differences in ABO antibody reactivities were recorded. Antibody levels correlated moderately between these two body fluids. There were no significant sex and age-group differences in ABO antibody levels in both serum and saliva. WHO standard dilution experiments yielded technique-specific limits of detection, illustrating the inherent differences of immunofluorescence versus agglutination. Conclusion: For the first time, salivary ABO antibodies were investigated by separate detection of the three most relevant antibody classes IgA, IgM, and IgG in a healthy cohort. This study opens new perspectives regarding mucosal ABO antibody class profiles and their potential influence on respiratory infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The ABO blood group is closely related to clinical blood transfusion, transplantation, and neonatal hemolytic disease. It is also the most clinically significant blood group system in clinical blood transfusion. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this paper is to review and analyze the clinical application of the ABO blood group. METHODS: The most common ABO blood group typing methods in clinical laboratories are hemagglutination test and microcolumn gel test, while genotype detection is mainly adopted in clinical identification of suspicious blood types. However, in some cases, the expression variation or absence of blood type antigens or antibodies, experimental techniques, physiology, disease, and other factors affect the accurate determination of blood types, which may lead to serious transfusion reactions. RESULTS: The mistakes could be reduced or even eliminated by strengthening training, selecting reasonable identification methods, and optimizing processes, thereby improving the overall identification level of the ABO blood group. ABO blood groups are also correlated with many diseases, such as COVID-19 and malignant tumors. Rh blood groups are determined by the RHD and RHCE homologous genes on chromosome 1 and are classified as Rh negative or positive according to the D antigen., the agglutination method is often used in clinical settings, while genetic and sequencing methods are often used in scientific research. CONCLUSION: Accurate ABO blood typing is a critical requirement for the safety and effectiveness of blood transfusion in clinical practice. Most studies were designed for investigating rare Rh blood group family, and there is a lack of research on the relationship between Rh blood groups and common diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Few studies have focused on the immune response to more recent influenza vaccine formulations such as cell-cultured inactivated influenza vaccine (ccIIV4) or live-attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV4) in older children and young adults, or differences in immunoglobulin response using newer antibody landscape technology. Methods Participants ages 4–21 were randomized to receive ccIIV4 (n = 112) or LAIV4 (n = 118). A novel high-throughput multiplex influenza antibody detection assay was used to provide detailed IgG, IgA, and IgM antibody isotypes, along with hemagglutination inhibition levels (HAI), measured pre- and 28 days post-vaccination. Results The HAI and immunoglobulin isotype response to ccIIV4 was greater than LAIV4, with significant increases in IgG but not IgA or IgM. The youngest participants had the highest LAIV4 response. Prior LAIV4 vaccination was associated with a higher response to current season ccIIV4. Cross-reactive A/Delaware/55/2019(H1N1)pdm09 antibodies were present pre-vaccination and increased in response to ccIIV4, but not LAIV4. Immunoglobulin assays strongly correlated with and confirmed the findings of HAI titers to measure immune response. Conclusions Age and prior season vaccination may play a role in the immune response in children and young adults to ccIIV4 and LAIV4. While immunoglobulin isotypes provide high-level antigen-specific information, HAI titers alone can provide a meaningful representation of day 28 post-vaccination response. Clinical Trials No NCT03982069 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Viscum orientale is a largely used parasitic plant with traditional medicinal properties. They are considered to possess the medicinal properties of host tree which they grow on. It's a least explored plant with ethanopharmacological importance. As a result, the current work aimed to investigate the biological effects of Viscum orientale extract and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) generated from it. Methods: AgNPs synthesized using Viscum orientale plant extract and analysed on time dependent series and was characterized using Ultra Violet UV–visible spectra, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy FTIR, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Further using disc method anti-microbial assay was performed following antioxidation screening using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), reducing power and nitric oxide content and heamgglutination with human blood. Results: On green synthesis using silver, the phyto contituents of plant Viscum orientale effectively reduced silver ions at 3-4 h of continuous stirring to form AgNPs. UV–vis spectra showed a typical peak of AgNPs at 480 nm. The FTIR analysis confirmed the covering of silver layers to bio-compounds of the extract. SEM analysis represented AgNPs as spherical morphologies ranging from 119–222 nm. AgNPs exhibited impressive zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli (8.1 ± 0.3 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (10.3 ± 0.3 mm), Bacillus subtilis (7.3 ± 0.3 mm), Bacillus cereus (8.2 ± 0.3 mm), Salmonella typhi (7.1 ± 0.2 mm). AgNps exhibited efficiency against DPPH at EC50 value of 57.60 µg/ml. and reducing power at EC50 of 53.42 µg/ml and nitric oxide scavenging of EC50 of 56.01 µg/ml concentration. Further, anthelmintic activity results showed synthesized nanoparticles significant reduction in the paralysis time to 5.4 ± 0.3 min and death time to 6.5 ± 0.6 min in contrast to the individual factors. On hemagglutination using AgNPs, above 80 µg/ml of concentration showed very significant effect on comparison with water extract. Conclusion: Synthesized AgNPs using Viscum orientale water extract displayed versatile biological activity than individual extract. This study has forecasted a new path to explore more on this AgNPs for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lupinus mutabilis Sweet is a species of Andean legume with a high content of proteins, which present hemagglutinating lectins. Here, we demonstrated that the α-conglutin lectin isolated from L. mutabilis seeds is responsible for the hemagglutinating activity by evaluating this activity at each step of the isolation process. Methods: Seeds of three ecotypes of L. mutabilis were used. Saline protein extraction size exclusion and ionic exchange chromatography were performed to isolate the lectin. Carbohydrate specificity, thermostability and resistance to chelating and reducing agents of the lectin were tested. SDS-page and mass spectrometry were performed to characterize the isolated hemagglutinating lectin. Rabbit erythrocyte hemagglutination test was performed at each step. Result: Patón Grande ecotype had higher hemagglutinating titers and therefore was selected for further purification steps. Hemagglutinating activity of the purified lectin, which was identified as a α-conglutin, was cation-independent and optimal between 15-20°C. Besides, it resisted temperatures up to 70°C, its activity was lost in basic pH and remained active under reducing and chelating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starting from October 2021, several outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) subtype H5N1 were reported in wild and domestic birds in Italy. Following the detection of an HPAIV in a free-ranging poultry farm in Ostia, province of Rome, despite the lack of clinical signs, additional virological and serological analyses were conducted on samples collected from free-ranging pigs, reared in the same holding, due to their direct contact with the infected poultry. While the swine nasal swabs were all RT-PCR negative for the influenza type A matrix (M) gene, the majority (%) of the tested pigs resulted serologically positive for the hemagglutination inhibition test and microneutralization assay, using an H5N1 strain considered to be homologous to the virus detected in the farm. These results provide further evidence of the worrisome replicative fitness that HPAI H5Nx viruses of the 2.3.4.4b clade have in mammalian species. Moreover, our report calls for additional active surveillance, to promptly intercept occasional spillover transmissions to domestic mammals in close contact with HPAI affected birds. Strengthened biosecurity measures and efficient separation should be prioritized in mixed-species farms in areas at risk of HPAI introduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an intracellular protozoan parasite in the Apicomplexa phylum that can be widely seen all over the world. In this study was performed to evaluate the study areas, test methods, positivity rates, regional results and studies. In this study, Pubmed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus and National Thesis Center databases were examined until 01.04.2022 and T. gondii studies in cats in Turkey were documented. Microscopic, serological [SFDT (Sabin Feldman Dye test), IHA (Indirect hemagglutination test), IFA (Indirect fluorescent antibody test), ELISA (Enzyme lynked immunosorbent assay), CFT (Complement fixation test)] and molecular analysis methods in cats in Turkey (PCR = Polymerized Chain Reaction) was used. 21 publications were identified in this metaanalysis. It has been determined that toxoplasmosis studies in cats are mostly seroprevalence studies (16/21). Studies were carried out in Eastern Anatolia (5/21) and Mediterranean Region (4/21), mostly in Central Anatolia (11/21) and Aegean Region (4/21). No study was found in the Marmara, Black Sea and Southeastern Anatolia Regions. It was determined that the regional distributions were Central Anatolia Region (52.32%), Eastern Anatolia Region (45%), Aegean Region (36.33%) and Mediterranean Region22.2%). The positivity rate for cats in Turkey is 41.5%. Rates in prevalence studies in final host cats indicate that infection is still an important public health concern. For this purpose, it is thought that researches and preventive activities should be increased, especially in areas where no studies have been made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current study reports the immunomodulatory effects of Artemisia brevifolia (leaves extract) against experimental coccidiosis in broiler chicken. For evaluation of immunomodulatory potential, a total of 175 day-old broiler chicks were distributed into 5 groups each group having 35 birds. Mixed Eimeria infection (50,000 sporulated oocysts) was given orally at one week of age. At same age, A. brevifolia extract was orally given at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg of body weight in first three groups respectively. Vitamin E and PBS treated chicks served as control groups. Cell mediated immunity was inquired through PHA-P, Carbon Clearance Assay, Concanavalin-A and DNCB assays. Sheep RBCs were used to check humoral immunity through hemagglutination test. Results showed that A. brevifolia extract induced cellular and humoral immunity against coccidiosis. Immunological response of groups administered with A. brevifolia extract at highest dose i.e., 300 mg was higher as compared to lower doses and caused immunomodulatory effect on infected chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To report a case of neurosyphilis complicated with Rickettsia felis infection, and summarize the clinical manifestations, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and imaging characteristics. Methods and Results A 33-year-old male with a disease course of more than 3 months was admitted to Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University on October 12, 2022, who had kept a cat at home for more than 10 years. The main clinical manifestations were seizure, cognitive function decline, and low fever in the last one month. Serum Treponema syphilis (TP) antibody, Treponema Pallidum Hemagglutination Assay (TPHA), Toluidine Red Unheated Serum Test (TRUST) were positive. CSF test showed increased white blood cell count and protein, positive oligoclonal band, 24 h intrathecal IgG synthesis rate and IgG index. Head MRI showed T2WI and FLAIR hyperintensity in bilateral medial temporal lobe and hippocampus atrophy, evident on the right side. There were 229 Rickettsia felis sequences and 2 TP sequences detected in CSF metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). After his medical history was asked again, he was infected with syphilis 7 years ago, and his serum and CSF were positive for TP antibody. The comprehensive clinical and imaging findings were consistent with the characteristics of neurosyphilis, and the fever was consistent with the characteristics of Rickettsia felis infection. He was diagnosed as neurosyphilis complicated with Rickettsia felis infection, who improved after penicillin and doxycycline treatment. Conclusions Neurosyphilis complicated with Rickettsia felis infection is clinically rare. mNGS can help with early diagnosis. Early anti-infective therapy can improve the prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-to-swine transmission of influenza A (H3N2) virus occurs repeatedly and plays a critical role in swine influenza A virus (IAV) evolution and diversity. Human seasonal H3 IAVs were introduced from human-to-swine in the 1990s in the United States and classified as 1990.1 and 1990.4 lineages; the 1990.4 lineage diversified into 1990.4.A–F clades. Additional introductions occurred in the 2010s, establishing the 2010.1 and 2010.2 lineages. Human zoonotic cases with swine IAV, known as variant viruses, have occurred from the 1990.4 and 2010.1 lineages, highlighting a public health concern. If a variant virus is antigenically drifted from current human seasonal vaccine (HuVac) strains, it may be chosen as a candidate virus vaccine (CVV) for pandemic preparedness purposes. We assessed the zoonotic risk of US swine H3N2 strains by performing phylogenetic analyses of recent swine H3 strains to identify the major contemporary circulating genetic clades. Representatives were tested in hemagglutination inhibition assays with ferret post-infection antisera raised against existing CVVs or HuVac viruses. The 1990.1, 1990.4.A, and 1990.4.B.2 clade viruses displayed significant loss in cross-reactivity to CVV and HuVac antisera, and interspecies transmission potential was subsequently investigated in a pig-to-ferret transmission study. Strains from the three lineages were transmitted from pigs to ferrets via respiratory droplets, but there were differential shedding profiles. These data suggest that existing CVVs may offer limited protection against swine H3N2 infection, and that contemporary 1990.4.A viruses represent a specific concern given their widespread circulation among swine in the United States and association with multiple zoonotic cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fever of unknown origin (FUO) and hydatid cysts are both complex processes that require a lengthy diagnosis. Patients hospitalized with equivocal pyrexia and pleural effusion in endemic areas should keep this in mind. Hydatid cysts are a cause of FUO. Therefore, we present a rare case. Our patient was presented with an intermittent fever and cough. His left lung's middle and lower zones had reduced respiration noises. The hemogram revealed leukocytosis with neutrophil predominance and normochromic normocytic anemia. The levels of ALT, AST, CRP, and procalcitonin were all elevated. There was increased opacity in the appearance of an abscess on a chest X-ray, as well as pleural effusion. On CT, a 10x9.3 cm pleural-based cystic structure containing an air-fluid level was observed. Thoracentesis fluid was exudative, neutrophil-dominated, and empyema. The indirect hemagglutination test was positive at a 1/2560 titer. Pleural fluid cytology revealed a cysthydatid membrane, and the patient was diagnosed with secondary pleural hydatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, applicability of an in-vitro ELISA method, which reduces or eliminates the need for animal trials in establishing the efficacy of inactive Newcastle disease vaccines was investigated. Methods: For this purpose, the efficacy of nine (9) inactivated Newcastle disease vaccines and two non-Newcastle related vaccines (negative controls) were evaluated by in-vivo and in-vitro methods. As in-vivo tests, vaccines were applied to the Spesific Pathogen Free (SPF) chicks and antibody response was determined via hemagglutination inhibiton test. As in-vitro, antigen amount in vaccines were calculated with a sandwich ELISA test based on the determination of hemagglutinin and neuraminidase levels developed for inactive Newcastle vaccines. Relative potency values of vaccines were calculated by using the parallel line analysis method with Combistats statistical analysis software program by using optical density results obtained from ELISA test. Results: Hemagglutination inhibition test results were found to be between 23,3 and 26,1; immunization/challenge results ranged between 56 and 136 PD50 and ELISA test results were between 6,02 and 98,23 antigen units. A correlation was found between the ELISA test and in-vivo methods. Sensitivity and specificity were found to be %89, %100 respectively. Conclusion: In our study according to these results, we have demonstrated the ability of ELISA method to give similar results on the same samples, its compatibility with the standard procedure and its applicability under laboratory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]