Anticuerpos anti-SARS-CoV-2 en personal de salud de un hospital pediátrico / SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among health care workers from a children's hospital

Introducción. En Argentina, el personal de salud ha sido el primero en vacunarse contra COVID-19, pero todavía existen pocos datos sobre la producción de anticuerpos IgG anti-S. Objetivos. Evaluar IgG específica contra glicoproteína spike del SARS-CoV-2 (IgG anti-S) posvacunación en personal de un hospital pediátrico. Explorar la asociación entre presencia de dichos anticuerpos, edad y antecedente de infección previa. Población y métodos. Estudio transversal que incluyó 193 trabajadores vacunados con los dos componentes de la vacuna Sputnik V. Se pesquisó el título de IgG anti-S y se registraron edad, antecedente de infección previa por SARS-CoV-2 y fecha de la vacunación. Resultados. El 98,6 % de los sujetos generó IgG anti-S. El título fue mayor en quienes habían cursado infección previamente (p <0,001), pero no hubo relación con la edad de los sujetos. Conclusión. Aportamos datos de generación de anticuerpos IgG anti-S posvacunación en personal de salud de un hospital pediátrico y exploramos algunos predictores.

Introduction. In Argentina, health care workers have been the first ones to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, but there are still few data on the production of anti-S IgG antibodies. Objectives. To assess specific IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (anti-S IgG) after the vaccination of health care workers from a children's hospital. To explore the association between the presence of these antibodies, age, and history of prior infection. Population and methods. Cross-sectional study in 193 workers who received both doses of the two component Sputnik V vaccine. The anti-S IgG antibody titer was measured and age, history of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, and date of vaccination were recorded. Results. Anti-S IgG antibodies were produced in 98.6% of the subjects. The titer was higher in those with prior infection (p < 0.001), but no relationship was established with subjects' age. Conclusion. We provide data on post-vaccination production of IgG anti-S antibodies among health care workers from a children's hospital and explore some predictors.

Serological and molecular biological analysis of RhD--: a case report / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To study the blood group serology and molecular biology of patients with RhD--, so as to guide clinical blood use. 【Methods】 The EDTA-K2 anticoagulant blood of the patient was detected for Rh antigens and antibodies. Meanwhile, DNA was extracted, and the 1-10 exon of RHCE and RHAG gene was sequenced by Sanger sequencing. 【Results】 The serological test showed O type RhD--, and all spectral cells were positive. RHCE gene sequencing showed RHCE*02/RHCE*02, RHAG gene sequencing showed mutations at site 808 G > A and site 861 G > A of exon 6. 【Conclusion】 When patients were with RhD--, and related immune conditions such as pregnancy and/or transfusion history were present, autologous blood transfusion or plasma exchange could be an option for emergency blood use.

Uma análise dos principais diagnósticos de Sars-cov-2 disponíveis no Brasil: uma revisão de literatura / Diagnosis and main types of coronavirus in humans: a narrative review / Diagnóstico y principales tipos de coronavirus en humanos: una revisión narrativa

Introdução: Com a emergência do SARS-CoV-2 foi disponibilizado uma grande quantidade de ferramentas de diagnóstico. Neste contexto, a falta de vacina, de tratamento e o grande número de casos graves e morte, possibilitou a aprovação emergencial de diversos testes, que ainda necessitam de estudos populacionais para seu registro definitivo. Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão de literatura para avaliar as metodologias de diagnóstico disponíveis no Brasil, de acordo com a realidade local de saúde, explorando o momento epidemiológico a complexidade do teste e a finalidade da sua aplicação. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo bibliográfico, descritivo do tipo revisão de literatura. Foram utilizadas as seguintes bases de dados científicos para buscas: PUBMED, MEDLINE, LILACS E COCHRANE LIBRARY, através de descritores selecionados na plataforma DECS. Resultados: O cenário de diversos ensaios, baseados em diferentes metodologias, como os testes baseados em RNA viral, em detecção de antígenos virais ou de anticorpos, associados ao conhecimento da história natural do vírus, possibilita uma análise crítica do melhor diagnóstico de acordo com a clínica do paciente, os epidemiológicos, o objetivo do diagnóstico e a acurácia do ensaio. Atualmente, há mudança no padrão imunológico da população e a descrição de tipos e subtipos de SARS-CoV-2 com mudanças gênicas, que podem levar a mudanças na acurácia diagnóstica ou a re-emergência em surtos de doença grave. Conclusão: Ainda é incerto o caminho evolutivo da história natural da Covid-19 e os ensaios diagnósticos estão em diferentes estágios de desenvolvimento, validação e produção e cada tipo de teste tem suas próprias vantagens e desvantagens distintas inerentes a plataforma tecnológica de origem e uma combinação de tipos de testes usados em momentos diferentes pode ser útil para a condução clínica dos pacientes e no controle da pandemia por SARS-CoV-2.

Introduction: With the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, a large number of diagnostic tools were made available. In this context, the lack of vaccine, treatment and the large number of severe cases and death, allowed the emergency approval of several tests, which still require population studies for their definitive registration. Objective: To carry out a literature review to evaluate the diagnostic methodologies available in Brazil, according to the local health reality, exploring the epidemiological moment, the complexity of the test and the purpose of its application. Methodology: This is a bibliographic, descriptive study of the literature review type. The following scientific databases were used for searches: PUBMED, MEDLINE, LILACS AND COCHRANE LIBRARY, through selected descriptors on the DECS platform. Results: The scenario of several tests, based on different methodologies, such as tests based on viral RNA, on detection of viral antigens or antibodies, associated with knowledge of the natural history of the virus, allows a critical analysis of the best diagnosis according to the patient's clinical, epidemiological, diagnostic objective and assay accuracy. Currently, there is a change in the immune pattern of the population and the description of types and subtypes of SARS-CoV-2 with genetic changes, which can lead to changes in diagnostic accuracy or the re-emergence in outbreaks of severe disease. Conclusion: The evolutionary path of the natural history of Covid-19 is still uncertain and diagnostic assays are at different stages of development, validation and production and each type of test has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages inherent in the technology platform of origin and a combination of types of tests used at different times can be useful for the clinical management of patients and in the control of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Introducción: Con la aparición del SARS-CoV-2, se dispuso de un gran número de herramientas diagnósticas. En este contexto, la falta de vacuna, tratamiento y el gran número de casos graves y muerte, permitieron la aprobación de urgencia de varias pruebas, que aún requieren estudios poblacionales para su registro definitivo. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión bibliográfica para evaluar las metodologías diagnósticas disponibles en Brasil, de acuerdo con la realidad sanitaria local, explorando el momento epidemiológico, la complejidad de la prueba y la finalidad de su aplicación. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio bibliográfico, descriptivo, del tipo revisión de literatura. Para las búsquedas se utilizaron las siguientes bases de datos científicas PUBMED, MEDLINE, LILACS Y COCHRANE LIBRARY, a través de descriptores seleccionados en la plataforma DECS. Resultados: El escenario de varias pruebas, basadas en diferentes metodologías, como pruebas basadas en el ARN viral, en la detección de antígenos virales o anticuerpos, asociado al conocimiento de la historia natural del virus, permite un análisis crítico del mejor diagnóstico de acuerdo con la clínica del paciente, epidemiológica, objetivo diagnóstico y precisión de la prueba. Actualmente, hay un cambio en el patrón inmunológico de la población y la descripción de tipos y subtipos de SARS-CoV-2 con cambios genéticos, que pueden conducir a cambios en la precisión diagnóstica o la reaparición en brotes de enfermedad grave. Conclusiones: El camino evolutivo de la historia natural del Covid-19 es aún incierto y los ensayos de diagnóstico se encuentran en diferentes etapas de desarrollo, validación y producción y cada tipo de prueba tiene sus propias ventajas y desventajas distintas inherentes a la plataforma tecnológica de origen y una combinación de tipos de pruebas utilizadas en diferentes momentos puede ser útil para el manejo clínico de los pacientes y en el control de la pandemia de SARS- CoV-2.

The clinical serological characterization of cisAB and B(A) blood groups / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To determine the rare ABO blood subgroups rapidly and ensure the blood transfusion safety of five patients by a series of serological tests and family investigation, as their preliminary serological results of ABO blood grouping was inconsistent. 【Methods】 ABO blood grouping, antibody screening and Coombs′ tests were performed by the routine serological methods, including manual tube and automatic blood group analyzer, which had matched micro-column gel cards from Diagnostic Grifols. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify the 6 and 7 exons as well as their adjacent intron region of ABO gene. The patients and their relatives′ ABO blood group and subgroup were analyzed and identified through the comparison with serological phenotype database of ABO blood group. The products of PCR were sequenced directly, and the gene mutation was identified through the comparison with the Blood Group Antigen Gene Mutation Database. 【Results】 Whether micro-column gel cards or manual tube test, the forward and reverse tests of serological grouping were not supported by each other on the five patients′ ABO blood grouping. The forward tests of patients No.1~3 showed AwB phenotype and the reverse tests showed B group. No.4 patient was the forward ABw phenotype and the reverse A group, and No.5 patient was the forward normal AB phenotype and the reverse B group, respectively. All of 5 patients′ Rh C/D/E blood grouping showed clearly; the IDT test and antibody screening result of patient No.1 was positive, while the antibody screening result of patient No.4 was negative. 【Conclusion】 The blood group serological characterization of patient No.1~3 met B(A) blood group, and patient No.4~5 met CisAB blood group. These tests can make a preliminary diagnosis of blood group phenotype, which are verified correctly via blood group genotype.

Prevalencia de Brucelosis en trabajadores de la industria cárnica en el Perú / Prevalence of Brucellosis in meat industry workers in Peru

La brucelosis es una enfermedad zoonótica causada por especies de Brucella a través de animales domésticos infectados. En áreas endémicas, ciertas ocupaciones tales como veterinarios, carniceros y trabajadores de mataderos son considerados de alto riesgo en relación con la brucelosis. Evaluamos la seroprevalencia de brucelosis en personas con ocupaciones de alto riesgo en tres mataderos de ganado bovino en Perú. Para cada uno de ellos se completó un cuestionario que incluía datos demográficos, antigüedad en el empleo y uso de equipo de protección personal, luego se obtuvieron muestras de sangre y se analizaron mediante la técnica de ELISA para detectar anticuerpos IgM anti Brucella. En general, 49 de 173 (28,32%) participantes exhibieron serorreactividad para la brucelosis. Cefalea, dolor en las articulaciones, sudores nocturnos, fiebre y anorexia fueron síntomas comunes en los casos seropositivos. Además, el 63,27% de los participantes seropositivos estaban asintomáticos. La prevalencia de brucelosis en estos grupos ocupacionales en relación a la ausencia de manifestaciones clínicas en un número significativo de ellos fue alta, por lo que los exámenes clínicos periódicos en estos grupos parecen ser esenciales para el sistema de vigilancia de la brucelosis. Se debe alentar el uso regular y constante de equipo de protección personal, especialmente anteojos protectores, entre los trabajadores del matadero de ganado para reducir la infección por brucelosis(AU)

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella species through infected domestic animals. In endemic areas, certain occupations such as veterinarians, butchers, and slaughterhouse workers are considered high risk for brucellosis. We evaluated the seroprevalence of brucellosis in people with high-risk occupations in three cattle slaughterhouses in Peru. A questionnaire including demographic data, length of employment, and the use of personal protective equipment was completed for each of them, then blood samples were obtained and analyzed using the ELISA test to detect anti-Brucella IgM antibodies. Overall, 49 of 173 (28, 32%) participants exhibited seroreactivity for brucellosis. Headache, joint pain, night sweats, fever, and anorexia were common symptoms in seropositive cases. Furthermore, 63.27% of seropositive participants were asymptomatic. The prevalence of brucellosis in these occupational groups in relation to the absence of clinical manifestations in a significant number of them was high, thus periodic clinical examinations in these groups appear to be essential to the brucellosis surveillance system. Regular and consistent use of equipment should be encouraged of personal protection, especially goggles, among cattle slaughterhouse workers for reduce brucellosis infection(AU)

Validation of the COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette (BNCP ­ 402 and BNCP402) in a South African setting

Background: Different diagnostic tools could improve early detection of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A number of antibody-based serological point-of-care tests have been developed to supplement real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based diagnosis. This study describes the validity of an antibody test, namely the immunoglobulin G (IgG)/immunoglobulin M (IgM) Rapid Test Cassette® (BNCP ­ 402 and BNCP402), manufactured by Spring Healthcare Services. Methods: A prospective cohort validation study was undertaken at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital between 16 July 2020 and 12 August 2020. A total of 101 patients admitte as COVID-19 cases under investigation were included in the study. They were divided into two categories depending on time since symptom onset: testing performed within seven days (early cohort) and after seven days (late cohort). The rapid antibody test was compared to the RT-PCR. Results: Overall, the test has a sensitivity and specificity of 85.2% and 80.0%, respectively, for a combination of IgG and IgM. Sensitivity and specificity of IgG testing alone were 81.5% and 85%. Sensitivity improved for testing with increasing time from symptom onset; however, specifity was not significantly different. Conclusion: The study data adds to the body of evidence that because of relatively low sensitivity and specificity, there is a limited role for antibody-based point-of-care testing in the acute phase of COVID-19 infection, as was the case with this IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette (BNCP ­ 402 and BNCP402). There may exist a role for such testing in patients recovered from prior COVID-19 infection or in seroprevalence studies; however, additional evaluations at later timepoints from symptom onset are required.

Elimination of autoantibodies interference with blood group identification and its treatment effect / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To summarize a rapid and effective method to eliminate autoantibodies interference with blood group identification and evaluate its treatment effect. 【Methods】 Blood samples with suspicious results in initial blood group identification were collected, and those caused by autoantibodies were chosen, and their red blood cells were washed, dispersed or treated with sulfhydryl reagent. After allogeneic or autologous absorption of plasma, blood groups of those patients were re-detected to evaluate the effectiveness of the above method. 【Results】 Among 39 patients presenting suspicious ABO blood group, 9 were interfered by autoantibodies. After appropriate treatment, the ABO/RhD blood group of those patients could be identified. 【Conclusion】 Autoantibodies could interfere the identification of ABO/RhD blood group, and the efficiency and accuracy of blood group identification could be improved by analyzing the test results and selecting appropriate treatment methods.

Complaints of blood quality: from 2014 to 2019 in Changsha / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the complaints of blood quality in Changsha, in order to continuously improve blood quality management. 【Methods】 The Handling Forms of Blood Quality Complaints of our center during 2014~2019, and the blood units issued, corresponded to the occurrence period of complaints, were collected from the SHINOW 9.0 system, and the overall blood supply and complaints of blood quality, including various components, were classified and analyzed by SPSS19.0. 【Results】 1 865 466 bags of blood were delivered from 2014 to 2019 in Changsha, coming down 435 complaints with 435 bags of blood involved, and the total ratio of blood quality complaints rated at 0.23‰(435/1 865 466), of which red blood cell complaint accounted for 45.06%(196/435), with a rise from 30.23%(26/86) in 2014 to 49.49%(49/99) in 2019. Meanwhile, the cryoprecipitate complaint increased from 10.47%(9/86) to 20.20%(20/99). The complaints were mainly broken blood bags 29.89%(130/435), positive serological testing results(irregular antibody screening+ or direct anti globulin test+ ) 34.48%(150/435), floccule or precipitates 18.39%(80/435), clot 5.52%(24/435), lipemia 3.45%(15/435), and blood type variant(ABO subgroups and variants of RhD) 2.07%(9/435). The complaints were different in blood components, each with a particular tilt as follows: positive serological testing results in red blood cell [72.45%(142/186)], broken blood bags in plasma [83.74%(103/123)], floccule or precipitates in platelet [54.17%(13/24)] and cryoprecipitate [64.13%(59/92)] . 【Conclusion】 Broken blood bags of plasma, floccule or precipitates of cryoprecipitate, and positive serological testing results of red blood cell were the main complaints of blood quality in Changsha. Blood banks should strengthen quality control, handle quality complains cautiously and strengthen community with hospitals before transfusion to improve blood satisfaction in clinical, and save blood resources.

HBV infection in voluntary blood donors in Qingdao, China: Serological and viral characterizations / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To study and analyze the serological and viral charactereristics of hepatitis B virus(HBV) infection in voluntary blood donors in Qingdao. 【Methods】 315 520 blood samples of voluntary blood donors were screened by ELISA combined with nucleic acid testing (NAT). All HBsAg-/HBV DNA+ samples were subjected to high-precision viral load detection and five serological markers of HBV. The sequence of HBV S gene was detected by PCR direct sequencing, and virus genotypes and amino acid mutations were analyzed. 【Results】 A total of 604(0.20%)HBV ELISA or NAT reactive samples were detected: HBsAg+ /HBV DNA- in 307(0.10%) cases, HBsAg-/HBV DNA+ in 138(0.04%) and HBsAg+ /HBV DNA+ in 157(0.05%). Among the 138 HBsAg-/HBV DNA+ donors, 118(85.5%) carried anti-HBc, and 45 (32.61%) carried sole anti-HBc and 5 (3.62%) carried both HBsAg and anti-HBc. In viral load detection, 64 were quantitatively negative and 74 were quantitatively positive, of which 42 were HBV DNA 20 IU/mL. 13 HBsAg-/HBV DNA+ samples were successfully amplified and sequenced, and 5 were genotype B, presenting a total of 17 amino acid mutations without any deletion or insertion, and 8 were genotype C, presenting a total of 41 amino acid mutations and 2 amino acid deletions. 【Conclusion】 NAT, in combination of ELISA, provides additional safety in detecting potentially infectious HBV during the window period and occult HBV infection (OBI). The viral load was low in OBI infected donors, and anti-HBc+ was the main manifestation.The dominating HBV genotypes are genotype B and C, suggesting HBsAg amino acid mutations may be related to the formation of OBI.

Epidemiological study of dengue fever in District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan / Estudo epidemiológico da dengue no distrito Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão

Dengue is a viral disease which is serious health concern from last few decades and the infection transmitted through mosquito bite into human. This study was conducted to carry out prevalence of dengue fever in District Swabi. A total of 196 blood sample were collected from patients with age ranges (0-80 years) having dengue fever on the basis of physical symptoms from Bacha Khan Medical Complex Swabi during August to October 2017. Serological test were performed for detection of IgM, IgG and NS1 (Non structural protein antigen of virus) against dengue. Out of total 196 confirmed dengue cases the most prone gender was male 123(62%) while 73(38%) were female. Among the age groups; 21-30 years group 62 (31.6%) was found the most predominated age group. The higly affected areas in district Swabi were Topi (40.8%) followed by Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8.2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5.1%), Shah Mansoor (5.1%), Gohati (4.1%), and Chota Lahore (3.6%). Therefore, the health department should take actions by educating the public about basic cleanliness of the environment. The community should be encouraged to participate in the control of such vector based diseases/infections.

A dengue é uma doença viral que é um sério problema de saúde das últimas décadas e a infecção transmitida através da picada de mosquito em humanos. Este estudo foi realizado para realizar a prevalência da dengue no distrito de Swabi. Foram coletadas 196 amostras de sangue de pacientes com faixa etária (0 a 80 anos) com dengue com base nos sintomas físicos do Complexo Médico Bacha Khan de Swabi, no período de agosto a outubro de 2017. Foram realizados testes sorológicos para detecção de IgM, IgG e NS1 (antígeno proteico não estrutural do vírus) contra a dengue. Do total de 196 casos confirmados de dengue, o sexo mais propenso foi o masculino 123 (62%), enquanto 73 (38%) eram do sexo feminino. Entre as faixas etárias; A faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos 62 (31,6%) foi a faixa etária mais predominante. As áreas altamente afetadas no distrito de Swabi foram Topi (40,8%), seguidas por Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8,2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5,1%), Shah Mansoor (5,1%), Gohati (4,1%) e Chota Lahore (3,6%). Portanto, o departamento de saúde deve tomar ações educando o público sobre a limpeza básica do meio ambiente. A comunidade deve ser incentivada a participar do controle de tais doenças / infecções baseadas em vetores.

Evaluation of serological test in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori and risk factors associated with the infection

Background: Serological testing has been widely used for the diagnosis of H. pylori. This study aimed to evaluate the serological test and to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the test in the diagnosis of H. pylori. The study also aimed to address if there are risk factors like blood grouping, Smoking, Age, gender, and residence of the patients associated with H. pylori infection.Methods: A prospective cross‑sectional study was performed among 100 symptomatic patients attending Dr. Suliman dispensary, Elnehoud city in west Kordofan state-Sudan, from March to September 2016. H. pylori were detected on plasma by using Healgen immunochromatography test cards from Xiamen Boson Biotech Co., Ltd (China), and identified from a stool by using monoclonal antigen detection from the same trademarked company. Data for the risk factors associated with the infection were assessed in a participant interview.Results: The serological test showed significant differences when compared to the stool antigen test p-value = 0.000. The statistical analysis showed moderate sensitivity and high specificity of the serological test compared to the stool antigen detection test. The study also showed that smoking [odds ratio (OR): 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.24-4.02) and blood grouping (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: (1.08-1.60) were risk factors for H. pylori infection.Conclusions: The serological test showed high specificity and moderate sensitivity in comparison to the stool antigen test. The increased risk of H. pylori infection associated with smoking and blood grouping.

Review of Paediatric Typhoid Perforation Cases Managed at a Tertiary Care Centre

Background: Any criteria (clinical, pathologic, microbiological or histo-pathologic) attributing a case of Paediatric gastrointestinal perforation to Typhoid would be of help in reaching a proper diagnosis to guide appropriate management.Aims and Objectives: To review all cases of Typhoid perforation for their clinical, pathologic and intra-operative findings.Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on all cases of typhoid perforation (gastrointestinal perforation with positive Widal test) operated at a tertiary care centre from September 2015 to September 2018. Data regarding their clinical findings, investigation results, intraoperative findings, nature of thesurgical intervention, postoperative results and histopathological findings were collected from their records and analysed.Results: A total of 13 patients were operated during this period with positive Widal’s test at presentation. 6/13 had single ileal perforation; two patients had multiple ileal perforations; perforation at atypical sites were found in four patients (one each at gastric, duodenal, caecal and rectal); one patient presented with Meckel’s band obstruction with multiple ulcers –this patient was sick and died despite a diverting ileostomy in the postoperative period. While 8/13 patients had primary closure of the perforation site, diversion through ileostomy was performed in five patients. All patients did well in the post-operative period except one patient of multiple ulcers and obstructing Meckel’s band who died in the post-operative period. Conclusion: On encountering a gastrointestinal perforation, no definite symptomatology or its pattern, no clinical examination findings, no intraoperative characteristics of the perforation and no biopsy can definitively point towards Typhoid as the cause. Therefore, we still have to depend on serological tests in correlation with clinical features to reach a conclusive diagnosis. Cultures and PCR, although sensitive are either time-taking or expensive to guide management. Typhoid perforation can have vivid and atypical presentation depending on the number and site of perforation

Natural versus recombinant viral antigens in SARS-COV-2 serology: challenges in optimizing laboratory diagnosis of COVID19

OBJECTIVES: COVID-19 is a public health emergency of international concern whose detection in recovered asymptomatic patients is dependent on accurate diagnosis as it enables the estimation of the susceptibility of the population to the infection. This demand has resulted in the development of several commercial assays employing recombinant proteins, but the results of these assays are not reliable as they do not involve comparison with natural viral antigens. We independently used the SARS-CoV-2 whole viral antigen (WVA) and recombinant nucleocapsid protein (rNP) to develop in-house ELISAs for IgG detection; the results of these ELISAs were then compared to obtain reliable results. METHODS: WVA and rNP ELISAs were performed on COVID-19 negative sera from patients before the pandemic in Brazil, and on RT-qPCR-positive or SARS-CoV-2-IgG against rNP and IgG against WVA-positive samples from recently infected patients in Sao Paulo, Brazil. RESULTS: Both ELISAs detected a large fraction of infected patients but exhibited certain drawbacks. Higher signals and lower numbers of false-negatives were observed in rNP ELISA; however, a higher fraction of false-positives was observed in control groups. A high number of false-negatives was observed with WVA ELISA. Correlating the results of rNP and WVA ELISAs resulted in improved performance for COVID-19 diagnosis. CONCLUSION: The choice of antigen is an important aspect in optimizing the laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19. The use of rNP ELISA for the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies seems promising, but comparison of the results with those of WVA ELISA is crucial for accurate test development prior to commercialization. IgG serology using several assays, and with the spectral patterns of SARS-CoV-2, resulted in confusing information that must be clarified before the establishment of diagnostic serology criteria.

Triagem das hepatites B e C em profissionais da saúde no município de Santa Luzia, PB / Screening of hepatitis B and C in health care in the municipality of Santa Luzia, PB

Introdução: as hepatites virais causadas pelos vírus HBV e HCV são endêmicas em diversas regiões com distribuição entre grupos populacionais e profissionais variáveis, sendo então um grave problema de saúde publica em diferentes partes do mundo e inclusive no Brasil, porque se associam a um elevado grau de cronificação podendo evoluir para cirrose hepática ou carcinoma hepatocelular. Objetivo: investigar por meio de um teste rápido a prevalência das Hepatites B e C em profissionais de saúde que atuam no município de Santa Luzia- PB. Metodologia: realizou-se uma punção venosa periférica de todos os profissionais de saúde para obtenção das amostras sanguíneas que foram testadas para marcadores sorológicos, através de kits comerciais de metodologia imunocromatografica. Resultados: 100% dos testes sorológicos das hepatites B e C apresentaram resultados negativos diante das amostras analisadas. Conclusão: com os resultados mostrando-se negativos, sabe-se que os profissionais encontram-se na área de risco de contaminação constantemente, desse modo para ampliar os conhecimentos sobre as formas de transmissão das hepatites é importante que haja intensificação na difusão das informações e aumento nas campanhas direcionadas ao público alvo visando educar todos os demais profissionais de saúde

Epidemiological study of dengue fever in District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract Dengue is a viral disease which is serious health concern from last few decades and the infection transmitted through mosquito bite into human. This study was conducted to carry out prevalence of dengue fever in District Swabi. A total of 196 blood sample were collected from patients with age ranges (0-80 years) having dengue fever on the basis of physical symptoms from Bacha Khan Medical Complex Swabi during August to October 2017. Serological test were performed for detection of IgM, IgG and NS1 (Non structural protein antigen of virus) against dengue. Out of total 196 confirmed dengue cases the most prone gender was male 123(62%) while 73(38%) were female. Among the age groups; 21-30 years group 62 (31.6%) was found the most predominated age group. The higly affected areas in district Swabi were Topi (40.8%) followed by Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8.2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5.1%), Shah Mansoor (5.1%), Gohati (4.1%), and Chota Lahore (3.6%). Therefore, the health department should take actions by educating the public about basic cleanliness of the environment. The community should be encouraged to participate in the control of such vector based diseases/infections.

Resumo A dengue é uma doença viral que é um sério problema de saúde das últimas décadas e a infecção transmitida através da picada de mosquito em humanos. Este estudo foi realizado para realizar a prevalência da dengue no distrito de Swabi. Foram coletadas 196 amostras de sangue de pacientes com faixa etária (0 a 80 anos) com dengue com base nos sintomas físicos do Complexo Médico Bacha Khan de Swabi, no período de agosto a outubro de 2017. Foram realizados testes sorológicos para detecção de IgM, IgG e NS1 (antígeno proteico não estrutural do vírus) contra a dengue. Do total de 196 casos confirmados de dengue, o sexo mais propenso foi o masculino 123 (62%), enquanto 73 (38%) eram do sexo feminino. Entre as faixas etárias; A faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos 62 (31,6%) foi a faixa etária mais predominante. As áreas altamente afetadas no distrito de Swabi foram Topi (40,8%), seguidas por Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8,2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5,1%), Shah Mansoor (5,1%), Gohati (4,1%) e Chota Lahore (3,6%). Portanto, o departamento de saúde deve tomar ações educando o público sobre a limpeza básica do meio ambiente. A comunidade deve ser incentivada a participar do controle de tais doenças / infecções baseadas em vetores.

Two kinds of test methods of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children / 中国生化药物杂志

Objective To investigate two methods for the detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children. Methods The choice of the January 2015-2017 year in January in our hospital 60 cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children as the research object, underwent rapid serological tests (control group), rapid detection of microbial culture (observation group), the detailed records of the two group with the experimental data,and the data for comparative analysis and discuss the diagnostic value of two test methods of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children. Results The positive rate of the observation group was higher than that of the control group, and the positive rate of the children in the age group of 4-8 was higher than that of other age groups, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion Children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection have a higher positive rate of rapid detection of microorganisms, especially in children of 4-8 years of age.It is worthy of wide clinical application.

Pathogen isolation and identification of an outbreak of infection in lung with unknown causes / 中国人兽共患病学报

We investigated the pathogen of an outbreak of lung infection with unknown causes.By epidemiological analysis,we used real-time PCR,ELISA,gold dipstick,VITEK2 and MALDI-TOF-MS to identify suspicious bacteria.We made use of serum plate agglutination test to confirm the suspicious bacteria and the patient serum.We isolated 2 strains of Cryptococcus albidus from environmental samples.There has been specific agglutination between suspicious bacteria and patient serum.This pneumonia may be related to the infection of Ccryptococcus albidus.

Survey of epidemic status of paragonimiasis in western mountainous areas in Hubei Province / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To understand the current status of paragonimiasis epidemic in western mountain areas in Hubei Prov-ince. Methods Four counties(cities)of Western Hubei Province(Xingshan,Enshi,Yunxi,Baokang)were selected as the investigation sites for active surveillance. Crabs were captured and the metacercariae of Paragonimus were detected. Meanwhile, the blood samples were collected from the residents in the surveillance sites and the unique IgG and IgM antibodies against Para-gonimus in the sera were detected by ELISA. In addition,a questionnaire survey about knowledge and behavior of prevention and control of paragonimiasis was taken among the residents. Results A total of 1143 residents were investigated in the active surveillance,the total positive rate of the serology test was 1.84%(21/1143),while the rates of the male and the female were 1.78%(10/562)and 1.89%(11/581),respectively,with no statistical significance between them(χ2=0.002,P>0.05). The average weight of 161 fresh-water crabs captured was 11.72 g,with the positive rate of 9.32%(15/161)and the infective density of 7.07 metacercariae per positive crab. The positive rates of the male and female crabs were 11.54%(9/78)and 7.23%(6/83), respectively(χ2=0.884,P>0.05),and the infective densities were 6.67 and 7.67 metacercariae per positive crab,respective-ly. Totally 1143 residents were investigated by questionnaires,and 0.44%of them had the behavior of eating raw or half-done fresh-water crab,and 0.87% of them had the behavior of drinking un-boiled stream water. Conclusions The transmission chain of paragonimiasis still exists in the nature environment of mountain area in Western Hubei Province. The positive rate of the second intermediate host rebounds in some investigation sites. Therefore,the measures of continuous surveillance and health education should be taken to avoid the appearance of the prevalence or outbreak.

Comparison of culture method, polymerase chain reaction and serological test for the detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children with pneumoniae / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

Objective To compare the capabilities of culture method, polymerase chain reaction ( PCR) and serological test in identifying Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in children with confirmed com-munity acquired pneumonia. Methods Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum samples were collected from hospitalized children with community acquired pneumonia in Capital Institute of Pediatrics from March to May in 2016. Three methods, traditional culture method, PCR and serological test, were respectively used to de-tect Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in those children. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS18. 0 software and chi-square test. Results Seventy-nine children with community acquired pneumonia were enrolled in this study. Eight (10. 13%) patients were diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infec-tions by the traditional culture method with an average positive culture period of 21 days. Twenty-three (29. 11%) patients showed positive results by using PCR analysis, including the 8 patients identified by the culture method. Forty-one (51. 90%) patients were found to be positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae infec-tions by the serological test. However, four negative samples identified by the serological test were confirmed to be positive by PCR analysis, including two positive samples confirmed by the culture method. Statistical analysis showed that the differences in positive rates detected by using the three methods were statistically significant. Conclusion It is recommended that both serological test and PCR analysis should be used in combination with clinical symptoms for a comprehensive assessment of Mycoplasma pneumonia infection in children.

Sensitization study of dogs with atopic dermatitis in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul / Estudo da sensibilização de cães com dermatite atópica na região central do Rio Grande do Sul

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a common dermatosis, defined as a genetic-related disease which predisposes to skin inflammation and pruritus, associated to a IgE-specific response in most of cases. Clinical diagnosis may be later complemented by skin allergy and/or serological tests. The aim of these tests is to identify possible allergens in order to enable the clinicians to select candidate antigens for allergen specific immunotherapy. In the present study 58 CAD positive animals were tested. All were submitted to the intradermal test (IDT) and screened for the presence of antibodies against different antigens using ELISA. The obtained results show a high prevalence of sensitization among the tested dogs to house dust mites and to pollen ofC. dactylon. With this work it was possible to identify the main allergens involved in immunological response of dogs with CAD living in central area of Rio Grande do Sul.

A dermatite atópica canina (DAC) é uma dermatose comum, definida como doença de cunho genético que predispõe à inflamação e ao prurido cutâneo, associados à resposta IgE específica na maior parte dos casos. O diagnóstico da DAC é clínico e pode ser posteriormente complementado por testes alérgicos cutâneos e/ou sorológicos. O objetivo desses testes é identificar possíveis alérgenos e, com isso, possibilitar ao clínico a seleção de antígenos candidatos para a imunoterapia alérgeno-específica. No presente estudo, foram testados 58 animais diagnosticados para DAC. Todos os animais foram submetidos ao teste cutâneo intradérmico (TID), e amostras de sangue foram coletadas para a realização de testes sorológicos. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram elevada prevalência de sensibilização aos ácaros domiciliares e ao pólen da gramínea C. dactylon nos cães testados. Com este trabalho, foi possível identificar os principais alérgenos envolvidos na resposta imunológica de cães atópicos residentes na região central do Rio Grande do Sul.