Search

The article discusses the need for enhanced surveillance and response strategies for arbovirus outbreaks in Italy. It highlights factors contributing to the reemergence of arboviruses, such as viral adaptation, climate change, and increased population mobility. The article introduces ArboItaly, a centralized repository that consolidates epidemiological data and integrates information on different hosts to facilitate the identification of trends and improve control measures. It emphasizes the importance of international collaboration, genomic surveillance, and proactive approaches in managing the evolving threat of arboviruses. The document is a list of references for scientific articles related to arboviral diseases, providing a range of perspectives and research findings on topics such as transmission dynamics, surveillance systems, control methods, and the impact of environmental factors on disease spread. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the new SARS-CoV-2 variant KP.3.1.1 and its genetic potential. The variant has been spreading and causing concern due to its increasing prevalence worldwide. The variant carries several mutations in the spike protein, including F456L, Q493E, and V1104L, which may contribute to immune evasion and increased transmissibility. However, the article emphasizes that the variant does not currently pose an immediate increased risk and is not an unusually worrisome variant. Ongoing monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants is important to prevent unforeseen outbreaks. [Extracted from the article]

Despite Parvovirus B19 (B19V) generally causing mild or asymptomatic infections, and only certain high-risk groups such as hematological or immunocompromised patients and pregnant women tending to develop complications, several factors challenge the assumption of a "benign" clinical course in immunocompetent adults and adolescents. A significant proportion of the population may harbor undiagnosed health conditions or genetic predispositions that could render them more susceptible to severe B19V complications. These could include mild hematological disorders, immune dysregulation not resulting in overt immunodeficiency, or underlying cardiac conditions. Concurrent infections with other pathogens, even seemingly minor ones, could synergistically increase the severity of B19V infection, leading to more pronounced clinical manifestations. While not definitively proven, the possibility of emerging B19V strains with increased virulence or altered tissue tropism cannot be entirely discounted. Additionally, the period of pandemic-related restrictions likely led to reduced B19V circulation, potentially resulting in a cohort of young adults with limited natural immunity, making them more vulnerable to infection. Potential clinical consequences include atypical and severe presentations, even in individuals without known risk factors. The traditional focus on B19V primarily as a pediatric concern might lead to underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis in adults, potentially hindering timely intervention and management. A surge in B19V-related complications, even if individually mild, could collectively strain healthcare resources, particularly in settings with limited capacity or pre-existing pressures. Possible recommendations are to heighten clinical awareness with a high index of suspicion for B19V infection in adults and adolescents presenting with compatible symptoms, even in the absence of classic risk factors. Additionally, expanding testing criteria and enhancing public health surveillance efforts would be prudent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From 1 January 2022 to 31 May 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 97,745 laboratory-confirmed Mpox cases, including 203 deaths, across 116 countries. Despite a 2.3% decrease in new cases in May 2024 compared to April 2024, significant regional variations persist. The African Region reported the highest proportion of new cases, while other regions experienced mixed trends. Phylogenomic analyses of the Mpox virus Clade IIb lineage B.1 reveal stable genetic variability with minimal diversification. The Bayesian Skyline Plot indicates a generally stable viral population size with a modest peak in late 2023, followed by a decline. In general, the data indicate that the MPXV outbreak is primarily localized within a few consistent geographic clusters. The virus's evolution is relatively slow, as indicated by its stable genetic variability, and Clade IIb lineage B.1 does not currently show signs of rapid genetic changes or population growth. The current low level of genetic diversity should not lead to complacency. Ongoing genomic surveillance is essential for effective outbreak management and understanding. This monitoring is crucial for identifying any shifts in the virus's behavior or transmission, allowing for prompt public health responses and adjustments. In addition, continued vigilance is necessary to detect any new variants that might influence the outbreak's trajectory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viral hepatitis is a major cause of liver illness worldwide. Despite advances in the understanding of these infections, the pathogenesis of hepatitis remains a complex process driven by intricate interactions between hepatitis viruses and host cells at the molecular level. This paper will examine in detail the dynamics of these host–pathogen interactions, highlighting the key mechanisms that regulate virus entry into the hepatocyte, their replication, evasion of immune responses, and induction of hepatocellular damage. The unique strategies employed by different hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis B, C, D, and E viruses, to exploit metabolic and cell signaling pathways to their advantage will be discussed. At the same time, the innate and adaptive immune responses put in place by the host to counter viral infection will be analyzed. Special attention will be paid to genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors that modulate individual susceptibility to different forms of viral hepatitis. In addition, this work will highlight the latest findings on the mechanisms of viral persistence leading to the chronic hepatitis state and the potential implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies. Fully understanding the complex host–pathogen interactions in viral hepatitis is crucial to identifying new therapeutic targets, developing more effective approaches for treatment, and shedding light on the mechanisms underlying progression to more advanced stages of liver damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses can infect humans and cause a range of illnesses, from mild respiratory infections to severe diseases that can be fatal. Human infections are typically acquired through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Recent outbreaks of avian influenza have been documented in various countries, including Cambodia, Australia, Vietnam, and the United States. While there have been cases of human infection from exposure to infected cows, genetic analysis suggests that the viruses have not yet specialized towards the human host. Continuous surveillance and monitoring are crucial to detect any genetic changes that may indicate a genuine spill-over event. [Extracted from the article]

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of vaccination to global health security and highlighted the potential of digital health solutions to improve immunization strategies. This article explores integrating digital health technologies with immunization programs to improve coverage, monitoring, and public health outcomes. It examines the current landscape of digital tools used in immunization initiatives, such as mobile health apps, electronic health records, and data analytics platforms. Case studies from different regions demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies in addressing challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, logistics, and real-time monitoring of vaccine distribution and adverse events. The paper also examines ethical considerations, data privacy issues, and the need for a robust digital infrastructure to support these innovations. By analyzing the successes and limitations of digital health interventions in immunization campaigns during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, we provide recommendations for future integration strategies to ensure resilient and responsive immunization systems. This research aims to guide policymakers, health professionals, and technologists in leveraging digital health to strengthen immunization efforts and prepare for future public health emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 KP.2 variant, which is a descendant of the BA.2.86 variant. While the KP.2 variant has shown an increase in cases, there is no evidence suggesting that it is a significantly concerning new variant. The article provides information on the global prevalence of the KP.2 variant, highlighting regions where it has been detected and its relative prevalence in different countries. The KP.2 variant carries mutations of interest, including K417N, S477N, N501Y, and P681R, which may pose potential risks. Additionally, it shares the E484K mutation, which has been associated with the ability to evade immune responses. However, the lasting immunity conferred by natural immune responses to these mutations has not been explicitly documented. The KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2, also known as the Omicron variant, carries three additional mutations in the spike protein genes compared to its ancestor, the JN.1 variant. These mutations, R346T, F456L, and V1104L, have been observed in other Omicron subvariants and are associated with increased transmission and evasion of neutralizing antibodies. The F456L mutation, in particular, enhances the spike protein's affinity for the ACE2 receptor, allowing the virus to better evade immune responses. The V1104L mutation, located within a T cell epitope, may enhance protein stability. However, it is [Extracted from the article]

Background: Influenza viruses are etiological agents which cause contagious respiratory, seasonal epidemics and, for influenza A subtypes, pandemics. The clinical picture of influenza has undergone continuous change over the years, due to intrinsic viral evolution as well as "reassortment" of its genomic segments. The history of influenza highlights its ability to adapt and to rapidly evolve, without specific circumstances. This reflects the complexity of this pathology and poses the fundamental question about its assumption as a "common illness" and its impact on public health. Summary: The global influenza epidemics and pandemics claimed millions of deaths, leaving an indelible mark on public health and showing the need for a better comprehension of the influenza virus. The clear understanding of genetic variations during the influenza seasonal epidemics is a crucial point for developing effective strategies for prevention, treatment, and vaccine design. The recent advance in next-generation sequencing approaches, model systems to virus culture, and bioinformatics pipeline played a key role in the rapid characterization of circulating influenza strains. In particular, the increase in computational power allowed the performance of complex tasks in healthcare settings through machine learning algorithms, which analyze different variables, such as medical and laboratory outputs, to optimize medical research and improve public health systems. The early detection of emerging and reemerging pathogens is a matter of importance to prevent future pandemics. Key Messages: The perception of influenza as a "trivial flu" or a more serious public health concern is a subject of ongoing debate, reflecting the multifaceted nature of this infectious disease. The variability in the severity of influenza sheds light on the unpredictability of the viral characteristics, coupled with the challenges in accurately predicting circulating strains. This adds complexity to the public health burden of influenza and highlights the need for targeted interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This multicentric prospective study was carried out at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio Medico and Ospedale di Stato of St. Marino Republic. Between 1 January 2019, and 31 December 2022, all pre- and post-menopausal women diagnosed with recurrent, post-coital, and interstitial cystitis at both centers were included in the study. The main aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of vaginal CO2 laser treatment, alone or combined with intravesical hyaluronic acid instillations, in managing cystitis symptoms, such as dysuria, pollakiuria, and urgency, across the entire patient cohort. The secondary objective was to investigate the reduction in number of annual cystitis episodes post-treatment. Methods: Each woman underwent three to four sessions of micro-ablative CO2 vaginal laser treatment. A follow-up examination was conducted 12 months after the final laser session (up to December 2023), during which a post-treatment VAS assessment evaluated dysuria, daily pollakiuria, and urgency. The enrolled patients recorded the number of cystitis episodes experienced during the 12-month pre- and post-treatment period. Results: Results indicated the laser's efficacy in reducing the total number of cystitis episodes per year and an improvement in symptoms up to one year post-treatment. Greater efficacy of the CO2 laser treatment, particularly when combined with intravesical hyaluronic acid instillation, was observed in both pre- and post- menopausal women. Conclusions: Fractional CO2 laser therapy represents a safe and efficacious, non-hormonal approach for pre- and post-menopausal women diagnosed with recurrent, post-coital, and interstitial cystitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) persistence in COVID‐19 patients could play a key role in the emergence of variants of concern. The rapid intra‐host evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2 may result in an increased transmissibility, immune and therapeutic escape which could be a direct consequence of COVID‐19 epidemic currents. In this context, a longitudinal retrospective study on eight consecutive COVID‐19 patients with persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, from January 2022 to March 2023, was conducted. To characterize the intra‐ and inter‐host viral evolution, whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed on nasopharyngeal samples collected at different time points. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed an accelerated SARS‐CoV‐2 intra‐host evolution and emergence of antigenically divergent variants. The Bayesian inference and principal coordinate analysis analysis showed a host‐based genomic structuring among antigenically divergent variants, that might reflect the positive effect of containment practices, within the critical hospital area. All longitudinal antigenically divergent isolates shared a wide range of amino acidic (aa) changes, particularly in the Spike (S) glycoprotein, that increased viral transmissibility (K417N, S477N, N501Y and Q498R), enhanced infectivity (R346T, S373P, R408S, T478K, Q498R, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K and P681H), caused host immune escape (S371L, S375F, T376A, K417N, and K444T/R) and displayed partial or complete resistance to treatments (G339D, R346K/T, S371F/L, S375F, T376A, D405N, N440K, G446S, N460K, E484A, F486V, Q493R, G496S and Q498R). These results suggest that multiple novel variants which emerge in the patient during persistent infection, might spread to another individual and continue to evolve. A pro‐active genomic surveillance of persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 infected patients is recommended to identify genetically divergent lineages before their diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to global public health due to complex interactions between bacterial genetic factors and external influences such as antibiotic misuse. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers innovative strategies to address this crisis. For example, AI can analyze genomic data to detect resistance markers early on, enabling early interventions. In addition, AI-powered decision support systems can optimize antibiotic use by recommending the most effective treatments based on patient data and local resistance patterns. AI can accelerate drug discovery by predicting the efficacy of new compounds and identifying potential antibacterial agents. Although progress has been made, challenges persist, including data quality, model interpretability, and real-world implementation. A multidisciplinary approach that integrates AI with other emerging technologies, such as synthetic biology and nanomedicine, could pave the way for effective prevention and mitigation of antimicrobial resistance, preserving the efficacy of antibiotics for future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the features and prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 KP.3 variant. The KP.3 variant is a descendant of the JN.1 lineage and is categorized as a variant under monitoring (VUM). It has been observed that the KP.3 variant is spreading globally, but with relatively low and variable concentrations. The article highlights the specific mutations present in the KP.3 variant, such as F456L, V1104L, and Q493E, and discusses their potential impact on the virus's ability to evade the immune system. However, the article emphasizes that there is currently no evidence to suggest that the KP.3 variant is a particularly concerning new variant. The authors stress the importance of continuous monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants to prevent unexpected outbreaks. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the avian influenza A (H7N5) outbreak and emphasizes the importance of not underestimating less famous subtypes of avian influenza. Avian influenza viruses are classified as highly pathogenic or low pathogenic based on the severity of the disease in poultry. While H7N5 is not commonly reported and has not been the center of significant outbreaks or public health concerns, continuous monitoring and research are essential to track potential mutations and the pathogenicity of these viruses. The article also highlights the need for robust surveillance, research, and preparedness strategies to mitigate the impact of highly genetically versatile viruses. [Extracted from the article]

This paper explores the potential of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics in revolutionizing infection control. It addresses the challenges and innovative approaches in combating infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical data practices, and integration of advanced computational tools in modern healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent WHO declaration of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) as a Public Health Emergency of International Significance highlights the need for a coordinated response and addressing global inequalities in access to health resources. The study analyzes the genetic makeup of the newly emerged mpox lineage, Clade Ib, which has been found outside of Africa. The genetic analysis shows that Clade Ib is evolving more rapidly and has a lower mortality rate compared to the original Clade I lineage. Continued genome-based monitoring is crucial for tracking the evolution of mpox and developing predictive models for containment and management. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the monitoring of avian influenza in mammals, particularly the transmission of the virus to domestic cats and minks. It highlights the need for surveillance and genetic studies to understand the potential for zoonotic transmission and the evolution of the virus. The importance of open data in tracking and responding to outbreaks is emphasized, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The article also presents an open-access database and visualizations that provide insights into avian influenza events in mammals globally. The significance of a One Health strategy, which involves monitoring wildlife, livestock, human operators, and the environment, is emphasized to prevent and mitigate viral threats. [Extracted from the article]

As the mankind counters the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), it simultaneously witnesses the emergence of mpox virus (MPXV) that signals at global spread and could potentially lead to another pandemic. Although MPXV has existed for more than 50 years now with most of the human cases being reported from the endemic West and Central African regions, the disease is recently being reported in non‐endemic regions too that affect more than 50 countries. Controlling the spread of MPXV is important due to its potential danger of a global spread, causing severe morbidity and mortality. The article highlights the transmission dynamics, zoonosis potential, complication and mitigation strategies for MPXV infection, and concludes with suggested 'one health' approach for better management, control and prevention. Bibliometric analyses of the data extend the understanding and provide leads on the research trends, the global spread, and the need to revamp the critical research and healthcare interventions. Globally published mpox‐related literature does not align well with endemic areas/regions of occurrence which should ideally have been the scenario. Such demographic and geographic gaps between the location of the research work and the endemic epicentres of the disease need to be bridged for greater and effective translation of the research outputs to pubic healthcare systems, it is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mpox, caused by viruses of the genus Orthopoxvirus, is an emerging threat to human and animal health. With increasing urbanization and more frequent interaction between humans and wild animals, the risk of Mpox transmission to humans has increased significantly. This review aims to examine in depth the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of Mpox, with a special focus on recent discoveries and advances in understanding the disease. Molecular mechanisms involved in viral replication will be examined, as well as risk factors associated with interspecific transmission and spread of the disease in human populations. Currently available diagnostic methods will also be discussed, with a critical analysis of their limitations and possible future directions for improving the accuracy and timeliness of diagnosis. Finally, this review will explore the public health implications associated with Mpox, emphasizing the importance of epidemiological surveillance, vaccination, and emergency preparedness to prevent and manage possible outbreaks. Understanding the epidemiology and control strategies for Mpox is critical to protecting the health of human and animal communities and mitigating the risk of interspecific transmission and spread of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measles, a highly contagious disease primarily affecting children, carries serious health risks, including complications and mortality. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against measles transmission. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated challenges in surveillance and immunization efforts, leaving millions of people exposed to preventable diseases such as measles. Globally accelerated immunization campaigns are critical for achieving regional elimination goals and mitigating the risk of outbreaks. Our team has developed an open-access database for global measles monitoring, facilitating standardized data collection and analysis. The analysis of measles cases from 2011 to 2023 reveals fluctuating trends, with notable increases in Africa in 2019 and 2023, indicating potential gaps in control strategies. Using an automated signal detection tool developed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) team, we identified significant variations between World Health Organization (WHO) regions, underscoring the importance of continuous monitoring to detect epidemiological changes early. These results underscore the need for robust surveillance systems and accelerated vaccination efforts to safeguard public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolutionary dynamics of viruses, particularly exemplified by SARS-CoV-2 during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, underscore the intricate interplay between genetics, host adaptation, and viral spread. This paper delves into the genetic evolution of SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the implications of viral variants on global health. Initially emerging from the Wuhan-Hu-1 lineage, SARS-CoV-2 rapidly diversified into numerous variants, each characterized by distinct mutations in the spike protein and other genomic regions. Notable variants such as B.1.1.7 (α), B.1.351 (β), P.1 (γ), B.1.617.2 (δ), and the Omicron variant have garnered significant attention due to their heightened transmissibility and immune evasion capabilities. In particular, the Omicron variant has presented a myriad of subvariants, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health. Despite the emergence of numerous variants, the vast majority have exhibited limited expansion capabilities and have not posed significant threats akin to early pandemic strains. Continued genomic surveillance is imperative to identify emerging variants of concern promptly. While genetic adaptation is intrinsic to viral evolution, effective public health responses must be grounded in empirical evidence to navigate the evolving landscape of the pandemic with resilience and precision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we introduce the EpiConnect Intelligence Platform (ECIP), a platform facilitating rapid, transparent data sharing and analysis to support researchers and public health officials in Europe, with a focus on Italy. ECIP provides reliable, concise, machine-readable data to aid in epidemiological understanding, standardize case characteristics, and estimate key parameters. The platform adheres to FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable) principles, offering easily accessible and downloadable datasets for researchers' endeavors. Future enhancements include involving national public health authorities, expanding data streams, and fostering collaboration between experts and users for improved epidemic risk monitoring. Shared standards among diverse surveillance systems are advocated to achieve common strategic goals, emphasizing the need for forward-looking policies to empower professionals to analyze disease dynamics in the context of evolving health crises. The recent emergencies underscore the importance of collective efforts towards shared strategic goals, highlighting the necessity for coordinated action to address mutual concerns affecting everyone's lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the challenges posed by emerging viral threats and the need for proactive measures to mitigate their impact on global health security. It highlights the devastating consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, including widespread morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic disruption. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying viral spillovers and adaptations to new hosts, as well as the role of advanced technologies in surveillance and tracking of viral threats. It also discusses the development of vaccines, antivirals, and host-directed therapies, as well as the need for interdisciplinary collaborations and a One Health approach. The article concludes by calling for continued research, science-based policymaking, and international collaboration to strengthen global health security. [Extracted from the article]

The influenza A(H1N1) pdm09 virus, which emerged in 2009, has been circulating seasonally since then. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive genome-based investigation to gain a detailed understanding of the genetic and evolutionary characteristics of the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) surface proteins of A/H1N1pdm09 strains circulating in Italy over a fourteen-year period from 2009 to 2023 in relation to global strains. Phylogenetic analysis revealed rapid transmission and diversification of viral variants during the early pandemic that clustered in clade 6B.1. In contrast, limited genetic diversity was observed during the 2023 season, probably due to the genetic drift, which provides the virus with a constant adaptability to the host; furthermore, all isolates were split into two main groups representing two clades, i.e., 6B.1A.5a.2a and its descendant 6B.1A.5a.2a.1. The HA gene showed a faster rate of evolution compared to the NA gene. Using FUBAR, we identified positively selected sites 41 and 177 for HA and 248, 286, and 455 for NA in 2009, as well as sites 22, 123, and 513 for HA and 339 for NA in 2023, all of which may be important sites related to the host immune response. Changes in glycosylation acquisition/loss at prominent sites, i.e., 177 in HA and 248 in NA, should be considered as a predictive tool for early warning signs of emerging pandemics, and for vaccine and drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the emergence of Alaskapox, a newly discovered Orthopoxvirus that has caused skin lesions in infected patients. The virus was first discovered in 2015 and has been mainly isolated in people who have had contact with small wild mammals in Alaska. The severity of the disease can vary, with immunocompromised individuals being at greater risk of developing severe symptoms. Treatment options, such as antiviral therapy, are being explored. The genetic makeup of Alaskapox is unique compared to other known strains, and further investigation is needed to understand its origins and potential reservoirs. Data on individual cases are available for research purposes, and efforts are being made to automate data updates. [Extracted from the article]

Artificial intelligence (AI) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are two important challenges in global health. AI has the potential to improve disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, while AMR threatens our ability to effectively treat infections. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics have led to the emergence of bacterial resistance. AI can help diagnose antibiotic resistance more quickly and accurately, design new drugs, and analyze epidemiological data to predict outbreaks. However, there are challenges in training AI with limited data and implementing it in low-resource settings. Collaboration and a long-term vision are needed to make significant progress in managing AMR and preserving global health. [Extracted from the article]

In recent years, the unprecedented spread of the Avian Influenza Viruses (AIVs) among birds and mammals has caused devastation in animal populations, including poultry, wild birds, and some mammals, damaging farmers' livelihoods and the food trade. Given the urgency of the situation, it is particularly important that scientists and the public can access research results and data as soon as possible. The main aim of this study is to present a global open-access dataset of Avian Influenza outbreaks to enable researchers and policymakers (i) to rapidly detect, and respond to animal outbreaks as the first line of defense; (ii) to conduct epidemiological and virological investigations around animal outbreaks and human infections; and (iii) to communicate the risk. We show the potential use of this dataset to the research community by analyzing the most updated information on past and current Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in domestic poultry and wild birds over the period from October 2021 to July 2023 in Italy. In addition, we applied indices borrowed from Economics (such as Homogeneity, Specialization, and Location Index) to the wild birds dataset to show their possible usage in epidemiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing emergence of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) HIV drug resistance in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) led to the World Health Organization (WHO) recommending, in 2018, a transition to dolutegravir (DTG) as a first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in SSA. The broad HIV-1 genetic diversity in SSA could shape DTG effectiveness and the pattern of drug resistance mutations (DRMs) in this region. This study evaluated HIV-1 integrase (IN) DRMs and conserved regions among published groups M, N, O, and P HIV-1 sequences spanning forty years of the HIV epidemic during the transition of DTG-based ART. Overall, we found low levels of integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-DRMs (<1%) across HIV groups between the years 1983 and 2023; however, it was unexpected to detect DRMs at statistically significantly higher frequencies in pre-INSTI (1983–2007) than in the INSTI (2008–2023) era. The variability of accessory INSTI-DRMs depended on the HIV subtypes, with implications for susceptibility to DTG. Our findings provide new perspectives on the molecular epidemiology and drug resistance profiles of INSTIs in SSA, emphasizing the need for ongoing surveillance and customized treatment approaches to address the continent's varied HIV subtypes and changing resistance patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endometrial cancer represents an ideal target to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 being the most frequent gynecological malignancy in Italy, generally detected at early stages and correlated with favorable oncological outcomes. The present comparative retrospective study carried out at Campus Bio-medico University Foundation in Rome aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the presentation, diagnosis and treatment of EC. All women with a histological diagnosis of non-endometrioid and endometrioid endometrial cancer between 1 March 2018 and 31 October 2022 were included. The number of cases was higher in period 2 (95 vs. 64 cases). Time to diagnosis did not show statistically significant differences but in period 2, 92.06% of the diagnoses were made following abnormal uterine bleeding, while in period 1, only 67.02% were. The waiting time for the intervention was significantly shorter in period 2. Definitive histology, FIGO staging, surgical technique and adjuvant therapy did not show significant differences between the two periods. The study demonstrates that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic did not have a direct effect on the diagnostic delay, tumor staging and type of therapy but rather on the presentation pattern of endometrial cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Understanding the prevalence and impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants has assumed paramount importance. This study statistically analyzed to effectively track the emergence and spread of the variants and highlights the importance of such investigations in developing potential next‐gen vaccine to combat the continuously emerging Omicron subvariants. Methods: Transmission fitness advantage and effective reproductive number (Re) of epidemiologically relevant SARS‐CoV‐2 sublineages through time during the study period based on the GISAID data were estimated. Results: The analyses covered the period from January to June 2023 around an array of sequenced samples. The dominance of the XBB variant strain, accounting for approximately 57.63% of the cases, was identified during the timeframe. XBB.1.5 exhibited 37.95% prevalence rate from March to June 2023. Multiple variants showed considerable global influence throughout the study, as sporadically documented. Notably, the XBB variant demonstrated an estimated relative 28% weekly growth advantage compared with others. Numerous variants were resistant to the over‐the‐counter vaccines and breakthrough infections were reported. Similarly, the efficacy of mAB‐based therapy appeared limited. However, it's important to underscore the perceived benefits of these preventive and therapeutic measures were restricted to specific variants. Conclusion: Given the observed trends, a comprehensive next‐gen vaccine coupled with an advanced vaccination strategy could be a potential panacea in the fight against the pandemic. The findings suggest that targeted vaccine development could be an effective strategy to prevent infections. The study also highlights the need of global collaborations to rapidly develop and distribute the vaccines to ensure global human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian influenza, bird flu, HPAI, bird flu, public health, virus surveillance, H5N1 Keywords: avian influenza; bird flu; HPAI; H5N1; public health; virus surveillance EN avian influenza bird flu HPAI H5N1 public health virus surveillance 521 524 4 08/08/23 20230901 NES 230901 When the world human population was small and sparsely distributed, infectious diseases were deadly but local. [Extracted from the article]

This comprehensive review focuses on the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and its impact as the cause of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Its objective is to provide a cohesive overview of the epidemic history and evolutionary aspects of the virus, with a particular emphasis on its emergence, global spread, and implications for public health. The review delves into the timelines and key milestones of SARS‐CoV‐2's epidemiological progression, shedding light on the challenges encountered during early containment efforts and subsequent waves of transmission. Understanding the evolutionary dynamics of the virus is crucial in monitoring its potential for adaptation and future outbreaks. Genetic characterization of SARS‐CoV‐2 is discussed, with a focus on the emergence of new variants and their implications for transmissibility, severity, and immune evasion. The review highlights the important role of genomic surveillance in tracking viral mutations linked to establishing public health interventions. By analyzing the origins, global spread, and genetic evolution of SARS‐CoV‐2, valuable insights can be gained for the development of effective control measures, improvement of pandemic preparedness, and addressing future emerging infectious diseases of international concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the opportunities provided by sol–gel chemistry for the production of silica/epoxy nanocomposites, with significant representative examples of the "extra situ" approach and an updated description of the "in situ" strategy. The "extra situ" strategy enables the creation of nanocomposites containing highly engineered nanoparticles. The "in situ" approach is a very promising synthesis route that allows us to produce, in a much easier and eco−friendly manner, properly flame−retarded silica/epoxy nanocomposites endowed with very interesting properties. The review highlights the recently proposed mechanism of nanoparticles formation, which is expected to help to design the synthesis strategies of nanocomposites, changing their composition (both for the nanoparticle and matrix nature) and with in situ−generated nanoparticles possibly more complex than the ones obtained, until today, through this route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]