Seropositividad de Chlamydia psittaci en trabajadores expuestos a aves y revisión de la literatura: evidencia de circulación en Antioquia / Chlamydia psittaci seropositivity in workers exposed to birds and review of the literature: Evidence of circulation in Antioquia

Introducción. La psitacosis es una enfermedad zoonótica causada por Chlamydia psittaci. Esta bacteria es catalogada como un agente con potencial bioterrorista y ha causado múltiples brotes en trabajadores con exposición laboral a aves en diferentes lugares del mundo. En Colombia, no se hace seguimiento epidemiológico de la infección y existe una gran brecha en el conocimiento. Objetivos. Determinar la frecuencia de anticuerpos contra C. psittaci en trabajadores con exposición laboral a aves y sus factores asociados. Además, revisar la literatura en relación con los estudios sobre el tema realizados en Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo, transversal, con intención analítica, en trabajadores en contacto con aves y se revisó la literatura científica relacionada en Colombia. Se detectaron anticuerpos IgM e IgG contra C. psittaci en suero por microinmunofluorescencia. La descripción de las características sociodemográficas y de exposición se hizo con frecuencias y medidas de resumen. Se exploraron factores asociados por análisis bivariados y multivariados. La revisión de la literatura científica y gris se hizo con búsqueda estructurada. Resultados. Se analizaron 54 trabajadores en contacto con aves y se encontró una prevalencia de anticuerpos del 31,5 %. El ejercer funciones de sacrificio y faenado de las aves sin ser médico veterinario fue un factor de riesgo para la presencia de anticuerpos. Solo se encontraron cuatro estudios previos sobre C. psittaci hechos en Colombia. Conclusiones. Este estudio constituye la primera evidencia de la circulación de C. psittaci en trabajadores en contacto con aves en Antioquia y el segundo reporte en el país. Estos hallazgos aportan desde la salud pública a la estrategia One Health.

Introduction. Psittacosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Chlamydia psittaci, a bacterium classified as an agent with bioterrorist potential. It has caused multiple outbreaks in exposed poultry workers around the world. Colombia has no epidemiological follow-up of the infection and a big knowledge gap. Objectives. To determine the antibodies' frequency against C. psittaci in workers with occupational exposure to birds and to review the literature on studies conducted in Colombia. Materials and methods. We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study with analytical intent on workers in contact with birds and reviewed the related literature in Colombia. IgM and IgG serum antibodies against C. psittaci were detected by microimmunofluorescence. The sociodemographic and exposure characteristics were expressed as frequencies and summary measures. Associated factors were explored by bivariate and multivariate analysis. The scientific and gray literature review was done with a structured search. Results. We analyzed 54 workers in contact with birds. Antibody prevalence was 31.5%. Slaughtering and evisceration by non-veterinarians was a risk factor for antibody presence. There are only four previous studies on C. psittaci in Colombia. Conclusions. Here, we present the first evidence of C. psittaci circulation among workers exposed to birds in Antioquia and the second report in the country. These findings contribute to the "One Health" public health strategy.

No seroconversion among healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 during the early phase of the pandemic / Ausencia de seroconversión en trabajadores de la salud expuestos a SARS-CoV-2 durante la primera fase de la pandemia

BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is associated with morbidity, hospitalizations, absenteeism, and mortality among healthcare workers (HCW). AIM: To evaluate the seroconversion rate in HCW exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the early pandemic phase in 2020 at a regional reference hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred seventy-nine HCW working at a regional hospital were invited to a longitudinal study performed between April-July 2020. A serological analysis by ELISA IgG for viral nucleoprotein and protein S with a secondary analysis by ELISA IgG protein S1/S2 for samples with positive or doubtful result was carried out together with a complementary online survey to inquire about occupational or community exposures to SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS: Two cases with baseline infection were detected (1.1%, one symptomatic and one asymptomatic) and no cases of seroconversion were detected. During the study period, there were 136 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, and regional weekly COVID-19 incidence ranged from 2.7 to 24.4 per 100,000 inhabitants. No SARS-CoV-2 cases were detected by PCR among 27 HCW who consulted for respiratory symptoms in the period. Online surveys confirmed direct care of COVID-19 patients and also detected a high degree of unprotected social interaction at work. CONCLUSIONS: There was no evidence of seroconversion in this group of HCW exposed to the risk of infection by SARS-CoV-2 during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Personal protective equipment and other measures used by the HCW were extremely useful for their protection in the initial phase of the pandemic.

ANTECEDENTES: La pandemia de SARS-CoV-2 está asociada a morbilidad, hospitalizaciones, ausentismo y mortalidad entre el personal de salud (PS). OBJETIVO: Evaluar la tasa de seroconversión en el PS expuesto al SARS-CoV-2 en la fase pandémica inicial el 2020 en un hospital regional de referencia. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Ciento setenta y nueve trabajadores de la salud fueron invitados a un estudio longitudinal realizado entre abril-julio de 2020. Se efectuó un análisis serológico por ELISA IgG para nucleoproteína viral y proteína S con un análisis secundario por ELISA IgG proteína S1 / S2 para muestras con resultado positivo o dudoso junto a encuestas complementarias en línea para preguntar sobre exposiciones ocupacionales o comunitarias al SARS-CoV-2. RESULTADOS: Se detectaron dos casos con infección basal (1,1%, uno sintomático y uno asintomático) sin casos de seroconversión. Durante el período de estudio, hubo 136 pacientes hospitalizados con COVID-19, y la incidencia semanal regional de COVID-19 osciló entre 2,7 y 24,4 por 100.000 habitantes. No se detectaron casos de SARS-CoV-2 por PCR entre los 27 funcionarios que consultaron por síntomas respiratorios en este período. Las encuestas en línea confirmaron la atención directa de los pacientes con COVID-19 y también detectaron un alto grado de interacción social desprotegida en el trabajo. CONCLUSIONES: No hubo evidencia de seroconversión en un grupo de funcionarios expuestos al riesgo de infección por SARS-CoV-2 durante el inicio de la pandemia de COVID-19. Los equipos de protección personal y otras medidas utilizadas por el PS fueron de suma utilidad para su protección en la fase inicial de la pandemia.

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated optic neuritis: an update / Neurite óptica associada com anticorpo contra a glicoproteína oligondendrócita da mielina: uma breve atualização

ABSTRACT Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-immunoglobulin G (IgG)-associated optic neuritis has been established as a new entity of immune-mediated optic neuropathy. Patients usually present with recurrent optic neuritis, often bilaterally with initially severe vision loss and optic disc edema. However, in contrast to aquaporin 4-IgG-seropositive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, visual recovery tends to be more favorable, with good response to steroid treatment. Another important differential diagnosis of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-IgG--associated optic neuritis is multiple sclerosis. Close monitoring for signs of relapse and long-term immunosuppression may be considered to maintain optimal visual function. The diagnosis can be made on the basis of the presence of a specific, usually serological, antibody against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (IgG; cell-based assay), and a demyelinating event (optic neuritis, myelitis, brainstem syndrome, or cortical lesions with seizures). The clinical spectrum of this newly recognized inflammatory demyelinating disease is expanding rapidly. We briefly review the epidemiological characteristics, clinical manifestations, diagnostic considerations, and treatment options of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-IgG-associated optic neuritis.

RESUMO A neurite óptica associada à glicoproteína de oligodendrócito de mielina-IgG foi estabelecida como uma nova entidade de neuropatia óptica imunomediada. Tipicamente os pacientes apresentam neurite óptica recorrente, muitas vezes bilateral, com perda de visão frequentemente severa e alta prevalência de edema do disco óptico na fase aguda. No entanto, em contraste com neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder associada com presença de anticorpo contra aquaporina 4, a recuperação visual tende a ser mais favorável e responde bem ao tratamento com corticoide em altas doses. A esclerose múltipla representa outro importante diagnóstico diferencial de glicoproteína de oligodendrócito de mielina-IgG. O diagnóstico pode ser feito com base na presença de um anticorpo específico, geralmente sorológico contra glicoproteína de oligodendrócito de mielina (IgG, ensaio baseado em células), e presença de evento desmielinizante (neurite óptica, mielite, síndrome do tronco cerebral, lesões corticais com convulsões). O espectro clínico desta doença desmielinizante inflamatória recém-reconhecida está se expandindo rapidamente. Faremos uma breve revisão das características epidemiológicas, manifestações clínicas, considerações diagnósticas e opções de tratamento da neurite óptica associada à glicoproteína de oligodendrócito de mielina-IgG.

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.

Estandarización de un ELISA para la cuantificación de anticuerpos IgG humanos contra células enteras de Bordetella pertussis / Standardization of an ELISA for the quantification of human IgG antibodies against whole cells of Bordetella pertussis

Bordetella pertussis es un patógeno exclusivo de humanos que causa la tos ferina, enfermedad respiratoria aguda que afecta principalmente a la población pediátrica. Existen dos tipos de vacunas comercializadas contra este patógeno: celulares y acelulares. Las vacunas celulares han sido extensamente utilizadas y siguen teniendo gran relevancia. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo la estandarización de un ELISA para la cuantificación de anticuerpos IgG contra células enteras de Bordetella pertussis. Para ello se determinó la concentración de recubrimiento, el rango lineal de la curva, los parámetros de precisión intra e interensayo, la especificidad, el valor de corte y el límite de detección. Se determinó como concentración de recubrimiento 0,5 UO/mL de células enteras. La curva estándar utilizando un suero de referencia internacional presentó un buen ajuste a una función polinómica en un intervalo entre las diluciones 1/100 y 1/24.300 con un coeficiente de correlación R2≥0,98. Los coeficientes de variación en los ensayos de precisión intra e interensayo estuvieron en los intervalos establecidos para cada uno (≤10 por ciento, ≤20 por ciento respectivamente). Los resultados obtenidos avalan el empleo de este ELISA cuantitativo para la evaluación de la respuesta a células enteras de Bordetella pertussis en ensayos clínicos(AU)

Bordetella pertussis is a pathogen exclusive to humans that causes pertussis, an acute respiratory disease that mainly affects the pediatric population. There are two types of vaccines commercially available against this pathogen: cellular and acellular. Cellular vaccines have been widely used and continue to be of great relevance. The aim of the present work was to standardize an ELISA for the quantification of IgG antibodies against whole cells of Bordetella pertussis. For this purpose, the coating concentration, the linear range of the curve, the intra- and inter-assay precision parameters, the specificity, the cut-off value and the detection limit were determined. The coating concentration was determined as 0.5 UO/mL of whole cells. The standard curve using an international reference serum presented a good fit to a polynomial function in a range between dilutions 1/100 and 1/24,300 with a correlation coefficient R2≥0.98. The coefficients of variation in the intra- and inter-assay precision tests were in the intervals established for each (≤10percent, ≤20percent respectively). The results obtained support the use of this quantitative ELISA for the evaluation of whole-cell response to Bordetella pertussis in clinical trials(AU)

Niveles de protección contra Haemophilus influenzae tipo b en niños, adolescentes y adultos cubanos / Levels of protection against Haemophilus influenzae type b in Cuban children, adolescents and adults

La concentración de los anticuerpos contra el polisacárido capsular polirribosilribitol fosfato del Haemophilus influenzae tipo b se considera un buen indicador serológico para evaluar protección contra la enfermedad invasiva. Existen pocos reportes que estudien la inmunidad serológica en Cuba. El objetivo general de este estudio fue determinar los niveles de protección séricos contra Haemophilus influenzae tipo b en niños, adolescentes y adultos cubanos, en una muestra de 575 individuos. Se cuantificó la concentración de IgG anti-polirribosilribitol fosfato de Haemophilus influenzae tipo b mediante un inmunoensayo enzimático estandarizado y validado en el laboratorio de inmunología del Centro Nacional de Genética Médica, La Habana, Cuba. Se determinaron las concentraciones medias geométricas de anticuerpos y los niveles de protección frente a la enfermedad invasiva por Haemophilus influenzae tipo b. La concentración media geométrica de IgG anti-polirribosilribitol fosfato fue de 1,94 μg/mL (IC95 por ciento 1,80; 2,08) y fue mayor en el grupo de 16 a 22 años. El porcentaje con protección de larga duración fue mayor para el sexo femenino que para el masculino (82,2 por ciento vs 71,4 por ciento; p=0,0339) entre los que poseían inmunidad natural. El grupo de sujetos nacidos en el periodo en que se vacunó con la vacuna conjugada cubana QUIMI-HIB® presentó concentraciones medias geométricas superiores (2,75 μg/mL, IC95 por ciento 2,00; 3,79). El 99,1 por ciento de los participantes presentó protección frente a la enfermedad invasiva por Haemophilus influenzae tipo b, el 19,8 por ciento a corto plazo y el 79,3 por ciento protección de larga duración. El inmunoensayo validado para la cuantificación de IgG anti-polirribosilribitol fosfato podría emplearse en estudios de seroprevalencia. En los sujetos estudiados, se encontró un predominio de elevadas concentraciones de IgG anti- polirribosilribitol fosfato del Haemophilus influenzae tipo b que confieren protección de larga duración(AU)

The levels of antibodies directed against the capsular polysaccharide polyribosylribitol phosphate of Haemophilus influenzae type b are considered a good serological indicator to assess the immunity against invasive disease. In Cuba, there are few reports that study serological immunity. The general objective was to determine serum protection levels against Haemophilus influenzae type b in Cuban children, adolescents and adults, in a sample of 575 Cuban individuals. The concentration of IgG against Haemophilus influenzae type b was quantified by means of an indirect ELISA standardized and validated in the immunology laboratory of the National Center of Medical Genetics, Havana, Cuba. The geometric mean concentration of IgG anti- polyribosylribitol phosphate and the levels of protection against invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b disease were determined. The geometric mean concentration of IgG anti- polyribosylribitol phosphate was 1.94 μg/mL (95percentCI 1.80;2.08) and the group from 16 to 22 years old presented the highest. Among those with natural immunity, the percentage with long-term protection was higher for females vs. males (82.2percent vs. 71.4percent; p=0.0339). The group of subjects born in the period in which they were vaccinated with the Cuban conjugate vaccine QUIMI-HIB® presented higher geometric mean concentration (2.75 μg/mL, CI95percent 2.00; 3.79). The 99.1percent of the participants had protection against invasive Haemophilus influenzae type b disease, 19.8percent short-term and 79.3percent long-term protection. The ELISA for the quantification of anti- Haemophilus influenzae type b IgG antibodies, developed and validated, could be used in seroprevalence studies. In the subjects studied, there was a predominance of high IgG anti- Haemophilus influenzae type b polyribosylribitol phosphate concentration values that confer long-term protection(AU)

Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among health personnel in Yaounde, Cameroon

Background. Health care personnel constitute a group at high risk of contracting COVID-19. However, the vaccination rate in this group in our context remains low. The objective of our study was to determine the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among health care workers in Yaounde. Methods.We conducted a cross-sectional study of 360 health personnel in three hospitals in the city of Yaounde from January to March 2022, i.e., 3 months. All health personnel who gave their free consent were included. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics and Research Committee of the Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Yaounde I. A logistic regression was performed to search for factors associated with reluctance to vaccinate, with a significance level of 0.05. Results.The vaccination rate against COVID-19 was 34% (123). Factors associated with vaccine hesitancy were female gender (OR [95% CI] =3.5[2.2-5.5]; p<0.001), working outside a COVID-19 management unit (OR [95% CI]=6, [2.1-18.5]; p=0.001), fear of the harmfulness of COVID-19 vaccines (OR [CI 95%] =2.7[1.7-4.2]; p<0.001), and doubt of vaccine efficacy (OR [CI 95%] =4.0[2.5-6.4]; p<0.001). Conclusion:Health personnel are still reluctant to vaccinate in our context. Factors associated with hesitancy to vaccination against COVID-19 could help deconstruct apprehensions.

Introduction. La pandémie de la COVID-19 a ajouté un fardeau supplémentaire dans les pays aux systèmes de santé déjà fragiles. Objectif : déterminer la prévalence et la séroprévalence de la COVID-19 en cas de suspicion du paludisme au cours de la deuxième vagueà Yaoundé. Méthodologie. Une étude transversale descriptive a été menée au Centre Médical le Jourdain pendant 8 semaines du 19 Avril au 13 Juin 2021 soit durant la deuxième vague au Cameroun. Pour les 86 patients avec suspicion de paludisme, des prélèvements nasopharyngé et sanguins ont été réalisés pour la recherche d'antigène du SRAS- CoV 2 et des IgG et IgM anti-SARS-CoV-2 grâce aux kits STANDARDTM Q COVID-19 Ag de SD BIOSENSOR, Corée, 2020 et StandardTM Q COVID 19 Ac IgG/IgM de SD BIOSENSOR, Corée, 2020 respectivement. La confirmation du paludisme a été faite grâce à l'examen microscopique des étalements de sang colorés. Résultats. Le paludisme était confirmé dans 20,9% (18) des cas. Les prévalences de la COVID-19 et de la coïnfection COVID19/Paludisme étaient de 8,1% et de 0,9% respectivement. Sur les 25,6% (54) des patients avec des IgM anti-COVID-19, aucun cas de microscopie positive n'a été retrouvé. Par ailleurs un peu plus de la moitié des patients avaient des anticorps IgG anti-COVID-19 qu'ils aient une goutte épaisse positive ou pas soit 56,0% (42/75) et 52,2% (71/136) respectivement. Conclusion. En cas de suspicion du paludisme en zone impaludée, il parait non négligeable de considérer la COVID-19 comme un diagnostic différentiel.

Serosurvey for SARS-CoV-2 among blood donors in Wuhan, China from September to December 2019

The emerging of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused COVID-19 pandemic. The first case of COVID-19 was reported at early December in 2019 in Wuhan City, China. To examine specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in biological samples before December 2019 would give clues when the epidemic of SARS-CoV-2 might start to circulate in populations. We obtained all 88,517 plasmas from 76,844 blood donors in Wuhan between 1 September and 31 December 2019. We first evaluated the pan-immunoglobin (pan-Ig) against SARS-CoV-2 in 43,850 samples from 32,484 blood donors with suitable sample quality and enough volume. Two hundred and sixty-four samples from 213 donors were pan-Ig reactive, then further tested IgG and IgM, and validated by neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Two hundred and thirteen samples (from 175 donors) were only pan-Ig reactive, 8 (from 4 donors) were pan-Ig and IgG reactive, and 43 (from 34 donors) were pan-Ig and IgM reactive. Microneutralization assay showed all negative results. In addition, 213 screened reactive donors were analyzed and did not show obviously temporal or regional tendency, but the distribution of age showed a difference compared with all tested donors. Then we reviewed SARS-CoV-2 antibody results from these donors who donated several times from September 2019 to June 2020, partly tested in a previous published study, no one was found a significant increase in S/CO of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Our findings showed no SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies existing among blood donors in Wuhan, China before 2020, indicating no evidence of transmission of COVID-19 before December 2019 in Wuhan, China.

A Nested Case-Control Study to Explore the Association between Immunoglobulin G N-glycans and Ischemic Stroke / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

OBJECTIVE@#This study prospectively investigates the association between immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycan traits and ischemic stroke (IS) risk.@*METHODS@#A nested case-control study was conducted in the China suboptimal health cohort study, which recruited 4,313 individuals in 2013-2014. Cases were identified as patients diagnosed with IS, and controls were 1:1 matched by age and sex with cases. IgG N-glycans in baseline plasma samples were analyzed.@*RESULTS@#A total of 99 IS cases and 99 controls were included, and 24 directly measured glycan peaks (GPs) were separated from IgG N-glycans. In directly measured GPs, GP4, GP9, GP21, GP22, GP23, and GP24 were associated with the risk of IS in men after adjusting for age, waist and hip circumference, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Derived glycan traits representing decreased galactosylation and sialylation were associated with IS in men (FBG2S2/(FBG2 + FBG2S1 + FBG2S2): odds ratio ( OR) = 0.92, 95% confidence interval ( CI): 0.87-0.97; G1 n: OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.63-0.87; G0 n: OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03-1.22). However, these associations were not found among women.@*CONCLUSION@#This study validated that altered IgG N-glycan traits were associated with incident IS in men, suggesting that sex discrepancies might exist in these associations.

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Immunoglobulin (IgG) Levels Using Chemiluminescence Immunoassay (CLIA) Anti-S-RBD Test in term neonates born to COVID-19 fully vaccinated mothers

Background@#Though protective levels of neonatal SARS-CoV2 IgG still warrant further studies, maternal antibodies from COVID-19 vaccination may be the key to neonatal protection against COVID-19 related complications. This study aimed to correlate SARS-CoV2 IgG titers of term newborns delivered to fully vaccinated/boosted mothers with the time of dose completion to delivery and the type of COVID-19 vaccine received by the mothers.@*Methodology@#A single center prospective cohort study that utilized CLIA Anti-S-RBD IgG determination in cord blood was done. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U Test were used to determine significant differences between IgG titers from vaccine types and groups as to trimester when COVID-19 dose was completed. Spearman’s rank was used to determine the correlation between IgG levels and interval of dose completion to delivery.@*Results@#All 177 newborns enrolled in the study had reactive results (> 1 AU/ml) regardless of vaccine type received and trimester of maternal vaccination completion. The highest titers recorded per group was 19,340 AU/ml from the booster group and 5,960 AU/ml from the primary series group. The mRNA vaccinated group exhibited higher titers compared to other vaccine types regardless of the trimester completion for both groups.@*Conclusions@#A significant difference between IgG levels showed that higher titers were noted in the booster group compared to the primary series group across all trimesters. There was also a significant correlation between titer levels and time of dose completion to delivery with higher titers associated with more recent dose completion for both groups.

Pathological significance of plasma cell infiltration in diagnosing lymph node diseases / 中华病理学杂志

Objective: To investigate the value of plasma cells for diagnosing lymph node diseases. Methods: Common lymphadenopathy (except plasma cell neoplasms) diagnosed from September 2012 to August 2022 were selected from the pathological records of Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China. Morphological and immunohistochemical features were analyzed to examine the infiltration pattern, clonality, and IgG and IgG4 expression of plasma cells in these lymphadenopathies, and to summarize the differential diagnoses of plasma cell infiltration in common lymphadenopathies. Results: A total of 236 cases of lymphadenopathies with various degrees of plasma cell infiltration were included in the study. There were 58 cases of Castleman's disease, 55 cases of IgG4-related lymphadenopathy, 14 cases of syphilitic lymphadenitis, 2 cases of rheumatoid lymphadenitis, 18 cases of Rosai-Dorfman disease, 23 cases of Kimura's disease, 13 cases of dermal lymphadenitis and 53 cases of angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL). The main features of these lymphadenopathies were lymph node enlargement with various degrees of plasm cell infiltration. A panel of immunohistochemical antibodies were used to examine the distribution of plasma cells and the expression of IgG and IgG4. The presence of lymph node architecture could help determine benign and malignant lesions. The preliminary classification of these lymphadenopathies was based on the infiltration features of plasma cells. The evaluation of IgG and IgG4 as a routine means could exclude the lymph nodes involvement of IgG4-related dieases (IgG4-RD), and whether it was accompanied by autoimmune diseases or multiple-organ diseases, which were of critical evidence for the differential diagnosis. For common lesions of lymphadenopathies, such as Castleman's disease, Kimura's disease, Rosai-Dorfman's disease and dermal lymphadenitis, the expression ratio of IgG4/IgG (>40%) as detected using immunhistochemistry and serum IgG4 levels should be considered as a standard for the possibility of IgG4-RD. The differential diagnosis of multicentric Castleman's diseases and IgG4-RD should be also considered. Conclusions: Infiltration of plasma cells and IgG4-positive plasma cells may be detected in some types of lymphadenopathies and lymphomas in clinicopathological daily practice, but not all of them are related to IgG4-RD. It should be emphasized that the characteristics of plasma cell infiltration and the ratio of IgG4/IgG (>40%) should be considered for further differential diagnosis and avoiding misclassification of lymphadenopathies.

Epidemiological characteristics and serum antibody detection of a COVID-19 aggregated outbreak in vaccinated population / 中华预防医学杂志

An epidemiological investigation was conducted on a cluster epidemic of COVID-19 in the vaccinated population in Beijing in 2022, and serum samples were collected from 21 infected cases and 61 close contacts (including 20 cases with positive nucleic acid in the isolation observation period). The results of antibody detection showed that the IgM antibody of two infected persons was positive, and the IgG antibody positive rates of patients who were converted, not converted to positive and infected persons were 36.84% (7/19), 63.41% (26/41) and 71.43% (15/21), respectively. About 98.78% of patients had been vaccinated with the SARS-CoV-2 inactivated vaccine. The positive rate of IgG antibody in patients immunized with three doses of vaccine was 86.00% (43/50), which was higher than that in patients with one or two doses [16.12% (5/31)]. The antibody level of M (Q1, Q3) in patients immunized with three doses was 4.255 (2.303, 7.0375), which was higher than that in patients with one or two doses [0.500 (0.500, 0.500)] (all P values<0.001). The antibody level of patients who were vaccinated less than three months [7.335 (1.909, 7.858)] was higher than that of patients vaccinated more than three months after the last vaccination [2.125 (0.500, 4.418)] (P=0.007). The positive rate and level of IgG antibody in patients who were converted to positive after three doses were 77.78% (7/9) and 4.207 (2.216, 7.099), respectively, which were higher than those in patients who were converted after one or two doses [0 and 0.500 (0.500, 0.500)] (all P values<0.05).

Effect of breastfeeding on immune function in infants with human cytomegalovirus infection / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To study the effect of breastfeeding on immune function in infants with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical data of 135 infants with HCMV infection who were admitted to Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University from January 2021 to May 2022, and all these infants received breastfeeding. According to the results of breast milk HCMV-DNA testing, the infants were divided into two groups: breast milk HCMV positive (n=78) and breast milk HCMV negative (n=57). According to the median breast milk HCMV-DNA load, the infants in the breast milk HCMV positive group were further divided into two subgroups: high viral load and low viral load (n=39 each). Related indicators were compared between the breast milk positive and negative HCMV groups and between the breast milk high viral load and low viral load subgroups, including the percentages of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets (CD3+ T cells, CD3+CD4+ T cells, CD3+CD8+ T cells, and CD19+ B cells), CD4+/CD8+ ratio, IgG, IgM, IgA, and urine HCMV-DNA load.@*RESULTS@#There were no significant differences in the percentages of CD3+ T cells, CD3+CD4+ T cells, CD3+CD8+ T cells, and CD19+ B cells, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, IgG, IgM, IgA, and urine HCMV-DNA load between the breast milk HCMV positive and HCMV negative groups, as well as between the breast milk high viral load and low viral load subgroups (P>0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Breastfeeding with HCMV does not affect the immune function of infants with HCMV infection.

Detection of IgG protein in human urine based on vertical flow paper microfluidic chip / 生物工程学报

The kidney is the body's most important organ and the protein components in urine could be detected for diagnosing certain diseases. The amount of IgG protein in urine could be used to determine the degree of kidney function damage. IgG protein in human urine was detected by vertical flow paper-based microfluidic chip, double-antibody sandwich immunoreaction, and cell phone image processing. The results showed that using an IgG antibody concentration of 500 μg/mL and a gold standard antibody concentration of 100 μg/mL, the image signal showed a good linear relationship in the range of IgG concentration of 0.2-3.2 μg/mL, with R2=0.973 3 achieved. A complete set of detection devices were designed and the detection method showed good non-specificity.

Control of lupus activity during pregnancy via the engagement of IgG sialylation: novel crosstalk between IgG sialylation and pDC functions / 医学前沿

Immunoglobulin (IgG) glycosylation affects the effector functions of IgG in a myriad of biological processes and has been closely associated with numerous autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), thus underlining the pathogenic role of glycosylation aberration in autoimmunity. This study aims to explore the relationship between IgG sialylation patterns and lupus pregnancy. Relative to that in serum samples from the control cohort, IgG sialylation level was aberrantly downregulated in serum samples from the SLE cohort at four stages (from preconception to the third trimester of pregnancy) and was significantly associated with lupus activity and fetal loss during lupus pregnancy. The type I interferon signature of pregnant patients with SLE was negatively correlated with the level of IgG sialylation. The lack of sialylation dampened the ability of IgG to suppress the functions of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). RNA-seq analysis further revealed that the expression of genes associated with the spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) signaling pathway significantly differed between IgG- and deSia-IgG-treated pDCs. This finding was confirmed by the attenuation of the ability to phosphorylate SYK and BLNK in deSia-IgG. Finally, the coculture of pDCs isolated from pregnant patients with SLE with IgG/deSia-IgG demonstrated the sialylation-dependent anti-inflammatory function of IgG. Our findings suggested that IgG influences lupus activity through regulating pDCs function via the modulation of the SYK pathway in a sialic acid-dependent manner.

Prognostic Value of CD56 Expression in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients and Its Related Factors / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To analyze the effect of CD56 expression on the prognosis of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients and explore the relationship between CD56 with clinical characteristics.@*METHODS@#In this retrospective study, the clinical data and laboratory parameters of 175 newly diagnosed MM patients from February 2015 to December 2020 in the Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University were collected. The patients were divided into CD56+ and CD56- groups based on the expression of CD56, and the general data and laboratory parameters of the two groups were compared. The patients were followed up to June 30, 2021, and progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were recorded. PFS and OS curves of the two groups were plotted respectively, and the survival differences were compared. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to analyze the effect of CD56 on the prognosis of newly diagnosed MM patients.@*RESULTS@#In 175 newly diagnosed MM patients, 57(32.6%) cases were in the CD56-group and 118 (67.4%) cases in the CD56+ group. There was significant correlation between CD56 expression and ISS stage, ECOG score, platelets, β2-microglobulin, creatinine, and extramedullary disease (all P <0.05). The incidence of extramedullary disease in the CD56- group was significantly higher than that in the CD56+ group (29.8% vs 12.7%, P =0.006). The median follow-up time of the whole cohort was 23.6 (1.0-78.6) months. The median PFS of patients in CD56+ group and CD56- group were 18.6 (1.2-77.6) and 12.2 (1.0-49.0) months, respectively, and the median OS of the two groups were 27.6 (1.4-77.7) and 19.7 (1.0-78.6) months, respectively. The 2-year PFS rate in the CD56+ group was significantly higher than that in the CD56- group (57.6% vs 36.8%, P =0.010), and the 2-year OS rate in the CD56+ group was higher than that in the CD56- group, but it didn't reach statistical significance (74.6% vs 64.9%, P =0.158). The results of univariate Cox regression analysis showed that the PFS was significantly shorter in newly diagnosed MM patients with advanced age, type IgG, high ECOG score, decreased platelet count, increased lactate dehydrogenase level, extramedullary disease, and CD56- (all P <0.05), the OS was significantly shorter in patients with high ECOG score, decreased platelet count, increased lactate dehydrogenase level, extramedullary disease, and CD56- (all P <0.05). The results of multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that advanced age, type IgG, elevated lactate dehydrogenase level, extramedullary disease, and CD56- were independent prognostic factors for poor PFS (all P <0.05); and decreased platelet count, elevated lactate dehydrogenase level, and extramedullary disease were independent adverse prognostic factors for OS (all P <0.05), while there was no significant independent correlation between CD56 and OS (P >0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Most of the newly diagnosed MM patients have positive expression of CD56. Loss of CD56 expression was associated with unfavorable biological and clinical parameters and poor prognosis, suggesting that CD56 has important clinical value in the prognosis of newly diagnosed MM patients.

Preparation of mouse monoclonal antibodies against human adenovirus 55 Hexon (HAdV55 Hexon) protein / 细胞与分子免疫学杂志

Objective To prepare specific mouse monoclonal antibody (mAb) against human adenovirus type 55 Hexon protein (HAdV55 Hexon). Methods The Hexon genes of HAdV55, 3, 4, 7, 16 and 21 were chemically synthesized as templates for PCR amplification. The prokaryotic expression plasmids pET28a-HAdV55 Hexon and eukaryotic expression plasmids pCAGGS-HAdV3, 4, 7, 16, 21 and 55 Hexon were constructed respectively. The pET28a-HAdV55 Hexon plasmid was transformed into E. coli competent cell BL21 (DE3) and was induced by IPTG. After the purified inclusion body was denatured and renatured, Hexon55 protein was purified by tangential flow filtration system. pCAGGS-HAdV55 Hexon was used to immunize BALB/c mice by cupping, and HAdV55 Hexon protein was used to booster immunization. The anti-HAdV55 Hexon mAb was prepared by hybridoma technique and the titer and subclass were determined. The specificity of antibody was identified by Western blot using HEK293T cells transfected with pCAGGS-HAdV55 Hexon and by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using BHK cells transfected with pCAGGS-HAdV55 Hexon. Both clones with high titer were selected, and the cross-reactivity of pCAGGS-HAdV3, 4, 7, 16, 21 and 55 Hexon transfected cells were analyzed by Western blot analysis and IFA. Results PET28a-HAdV55 Hexon and pCAGGS-HAdV55 Hexon, 3, 4, 7, 16 and 21 expression plasmids were successfully constructed. BL21 transformed with pET28a-HAdV55 Hexon was induced by IPTG. The HAdV55 Hexon protein was mainly expressed in the form of inclusion body. After denaturation and renaturation, the purified HAdV55 Hexon protein was obtained by ultrafiltration. Six hybridoma cell lines secreting HAdV55 Hexon mAb were obtained. The antibody subclass analysis showed that 2 strains were IgG2a subtypes and 4 strains were IgG2b. Two specific HAdV55 Hexon antibodies with high titer were obtained, and there was no cross-reactivity with HAdV3, 4, 7, 16, 21 Hexon. Conclusion The specific mice mAb against HAdV55 Hexon provides an experimental basis for establishing its antigen detection method.

Administration of a single chain variable fragments chimeric protein (SD) of ovalbumin epitopes internalizing receptor DEC-205 antibody inhibits food allergy in mice / 细胞与分子免疫学杂志

Objective To investigate the preventive therapeutic effect and possible mechanism of single chain variable fragments chimeric protein (SD) of ovalbumin epitopes internalizing receptor DEC-205 antibody on food allergy in mice. Methods Mice were randomly divided to five groups (control, PBS, scFv DEC 100 μg, SD 50 μg, SD 100 μg) and treated for 24 hours before OVA administration. After challenge, the serum level of OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, IgG2a and IL-4 were detected by ELISA. Infiltration of eosinophils and mast cells in the jejunum was observed by HE staining and toluidine blue staining respectively. The bone marrow of tibia and femur was isolated and cultured to obtain immature dendritic cells(BMDCs), which were further treated with LPS (10 ng/mL), TSLP (50 ng/mL), scFv DEC protein (1000 ng/mL) and SD protein (10,100,1000)ng/mL for 24 hours, and the IL-10 level of supernatant was assayed by ELISA. Results Compared with PBS group, the number of SD-treated mice with diarrhea was markedly reduced. The difference in rectal temperature and the levels of serum OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, IgG2a and IL-4 decreased significantly after prophylactic administration of SD; The number of eosinophils and mast cells in jejunum also decreased significantly while the IL-10 level in the supernatant of BMDCs increased significantly after SD intervention. Conclusion SD mitigates experimental FA response by fosters the immune tolerance property of dendritic cells.

Monitoreo serológico y psicológico en personal de salud durante el comienzo de la pandemia COVID-19 / Serological and psychological monitoring of healthcare workers during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic

Introducción: el personal de salud (PdS) es esencial en la lucha contra el COVID-19. Al inicio de la pandemia, el riesgo de adquirir la enfermedad en este grupo era desconocido. Buscamos estimar incidencia y prevalencia de anticuerpos anti-SARS-CoV-2, y prevalencia de burnout en una cohorte de PdS durante la pandemia COVID-19, así como valorar la prevalencia de burnout y depresión en la cohorte. Materiales y métodos: cohorte prospectiva conformada por médicos que atendían pacientes COVID-19 desde marzo de 2020 hasta enero de 2021, en un hospital de alta complejidad de la ciudad de Buenos Aires. Se evaluó IgM e IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 quincenalmente durante 3 meses, así como la presencia de síntomas compatibles y factores asociados a la exposición. Se remitió a participantes con alteraciones de la esfera psíquica a contacto con el equipo de salud mental del hospital. Resultados: se incluyeron 52 participantes; de ellos, 31 eran mujeres; mediana de edad 32 años (rango 25-58). La mediana de horas semanales de trabajo autoinformadas fue 48 (IIC [intervalo intercuartil] 40-69,5). Inicialmente todos fueron PCR SARS-CoV-2 negativos en hisopado nasal; 11 (21,50% IC 95%; 9,62-32,53%) tuvieron COVID-19 sintomático con anticuerpos positivos. Los factores con mayor asociación a riesgo de COVID-19 fueron anosmia/disgeusia OR 403,33 (IC 95%; 47,60-3417,02), fiebre OR 172,53 (IC 95%; 28,82-1032,65), mialgias OR 41,97 (IC 95%; 8,08-217,84), conviviente con COVID-19 OR 28,17 (IC 95%; 5,67-179,97). Cerca del 40% presentaba alteraciones en las escalas de medición de burnout o depresión. Discusión: la incidencia hallada coincide con las cifras informadas acerca de personal de salud en la etapa inicial de la pandemia en la Argentina. Otro aspecto similar fue una mayoría de infecciones de curso leve, sin ningún paciente hospitalizado. No obstante, se halló una elevada incidencia de alteraciones de la esfera psíquica, tanto al comienzo como al final del seguimiento. Conclusiones: la incidencia de positivización de anticuerpos anti-SARS-CoV-2 fue cercana al 20%. No evidenciamos infecciones presintomáticas o asintomáticas. En cambio, la prevalencia de burnout y depresión fue elevada. La salud mental es un componente del personal de salud que debe ser priorizado en situaciones futuras de impacto similar. (AU)

Introduction: healthcare personnel are essential in the response against COVID-19. At the beginning of the pandemic the risk of acquiring the disease in this group was unknown. We sought to estimate incidence and prevalence of anti SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, as well as burnout prevalence in a cohort of healthcare staff during the pandemic, as well as assessing the prevalence of burnout and depression in this group. Materials and methods: prospective cohort formed by physicians tending to COVID-19 patients from march 2020 to january 2021 in a high-complexity hospital in the city of Buenos Aires. We evaluated anti SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG each 15 days for 3 months as well as the presence of compatible symptoms and factors associated to exposition to the virus. Patients showing signs of burnout and/or depression were referred to proper care by the mental health team in the hospital. Results: we included 52 patients, 31 women, median age was 32 years (range 25 - 58). Median amount of self-reported hours worked each week was 48 (IQR 40 - 69.5). Initially all participants had a negative COVID-19 PCR nasopharyngeal swab; 11 (21.50% CI95% 9.62 - 32.53%) had symptomatic COVID-19 with positive antibodies. Factors showing stronger association with testing positive were anosmia/dysgeusia OR 403.33 (CI95% 47.60-3417.02), fever OR 172.53 (CI95% 28.82 - 1032.65), myalgia OR 41.97 (CI95% 8.08 - 217.84), cohabitation with confirmed COVID-19 case OR 28.17 (CI95% 5.67 - 179.97). Near 40% showed alterations in burnout or depression scales. Discussion: the incidence rate we found was like reported values in the initial stages of the pandemic in Argentina. Another similarity was that all cases were mild; no hospitalization was required for any participant. We found an elevated incidence of alterations in the psychic sphere, both at the beginning and end of the follow up period. Conclusions:the incidence of positive SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was around 20%. No pre or asymptomatic cases were identified. Burnout and depression incidence was high. Mental health is a component that should never be overlooked in similar situations to come. (AU)

Seroprevalencia, características clínicas SARS-COV-2 y sistema ABO en 85 voluntarios residentes de gran altura. La Paz Bolivia / Seroprevalence, SARS-COV-2 clinical characteristics and ABO system in 85 high-altitude resident volunteers. La Paz, Bolivia

OBJETIVO: determinar la seroprevalencia, características clínicas de SARS-COV-2 y su relación con sistema ABO en 85 voluntarios residentes de gran altura. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: estudio observacional, trasversal analítico. Se realizó pruebas de flujo lateral con plasma de sangre venosa, saturación de oxígeno, frecuencia cardíaca, frecuencia respiratoria y se aplicó una encuesta sobre características demográficas y clínicas. RESULTADOS: se obtuvo la información de 85 voluntarios, 64.71% mujeres y 35.29% varones. La edad fue de 37.42±14.7 años. El 15.3% tuvo IgM e IgG positivos, el 58.8% negativos, el 21.2% IgM negativo e IgG positivo y el 4.7% IgM positivo e IgG negativo. En los 4 grupos la mayoría fueron asintomáticos, siendo presintomáticos el 15.38% en los IgM IgG positivos y sintomáticos en proporciones similares en los 4 grupos. El 27% declaró alguna comorbilidad, 8% del grupo IgM e IgG positivos con obesidad; 39% del grupo IgM- IgG+ con obesidad y una embarazada; 50% del grupo IgM+ IgG- con asma y lumbago y en 26% del grupo IgM e IgG negativos con 2 embarazos, 2 gastritis y 1 eritrocitosis. En relación al tipo sanguíneo, el más frecuente fue 0 positivo con 92.8%, seguido de A positivo con 4.8%, A negativo con 1.2% y B positivo también 1.2% (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONES: las características clínicas de COVID­19 y seroprevalencia de IgM e IgG de habitantes de gran altura son similares a los habitantes del llano.

OBJECTIVE: to determine the seroprevalence, clinical characteristics of SARS-COV-2 and its relationship with the ABO system in 85 high-altitude resident volunteers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: observational, cross-sectional analytical study. Lateral flow tests with venous blood plasma, oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiratory rate were performed, and a survey on demographic and clinical characteristics was applied. RESULTS: information was obtained from 85 volunteers, 64.71% women and 35.29% men. The age was 37.42±14.7 years. 15.3% had positive IgM and IgG, 58.8% negative, 21.2% negative IgM and positive IgG, and 4.7% positive IgM and negative IgG. In the 4 groups, most were asymptomatic, with 15.38% being presymptomatic in positive IgM IgG and symptomatic in similar proportions in the 4 groups. 27% declared some comorbidity, 8% of the positive IgM and IgG group with obesity; 39% of the IgM-IgG+ group with obesity and one pregnant; 50% of the IgM+ IgG- group with asthma and lumbago and 26% of the IgM and IgG negative group with 2 pregnancies, 2 gastritis and 1 erythrocytosis. In relation to blood type, the most frequent was 0 positive with 92.8%, followed by A positive with 4.8%, A negative with 1.2% and B positive also 1.2% (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The clinical characteristics of COVID-19 and the seroprevalence of IgM and IgG in inhabitants of high altitudes are similar to those in the plains.