Objective To analyze epidemiological characteristics and clinical manifestations of confirmed mpox cases reported in Hubei Province from 2023 to 2024, so as to provide scientific basis and reference for optimizing regional mpox control and prevention strategies and dealing with emerging infectious diseases. Methods The data included individual case information and epidemiological investigation report of on the confirmed mpox cases whose current residence is in Hubei Province reported in the National Infectious Disease Reporting Information Management System as of December 31, 2024. The epidemiological characteristics, including demographic distribution, clinical manifestations and the effect of prevention and control measures, were systematically analyzed. Results The total of 63 mpox cases confirmed in Hubei Province from 2023 to 2024 were mainly sporadic, which was concentrated from July to September 2023 and was at a low epidemic level since 2024. The main characteristics of the cases were men who have sex with men (87.3%), young adults (88.4% aged 20 to 49 years), unmarried (68.3%) and unemployed (28.8%), and 25.4% were AIDS patients. 93.7% were found through proactive medical consultation. The initial symptoms were rash (60.3%) and fever (20.6%), and the main clinical symptoms were rash (96.8%), fever (63.5%), itchy rash (27.0%), and enlarged lymph nodes (22.2%). The interval between the onset of disease to the time of medical consultation was 0-29 days, with M(P25, P75) of 9(6, 13) days. The incubation period of the cases was 0-25 days, with M(P25, P75) of 7(4, 10) days. After mpox was included in the management of Class B infectious diseases in China, the interval between the onset of disease to the time of medical consultation in our province was shortened. Conclusion The control and prevention of mpox in our province needs to be strengthened. We should continuously strengthen the monitoring of mpox, using the comprehensive intervention service system of AIDS prevention and treatment to provide health education for key groups such as MSM and college students, along with strengthen the training of medical staff in general hospitals.
Objective We aimed to analyze epidemiological characteristics and clinical manifestations of mpox cases in the Tianjin between 2023 and 2024, and to provide scientific basis for control and prevention of mpox. Methods The mpox cases were selected with current residence in Tianjin, reported by the National Infectious Disease Surveillance System between 2023 and 2024. Descriptive data was used to analyze demographic, epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the cases. The t-test was used to compare incubation in different human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection states, paired t-tests was conducted to analyze the CT values of different samples, as well as the χ2 test for delayed diagnosis and first diagnosis reporting rates between 2023 and 2024. Results From June 2023 to December 2024, a total of 60 mpox cases were reported in Tianjin, with 58 cases included in this study (excluding 2 cases who refused epidemiological investigation). All cases were young to middle-aged males, and 89.66% belonged to men who have sex with men (MSM) population, 93.10% had a history of homosexual contact within 21 days before onset. The average incubation period for mpox cases was 8 days, and all cases presented with skin rashes in different locations, with genital rashes being the most common (62.07%). The initial symptoms in 58 mpox cases were primarily rash affecting various body areas (44 cases, 75.86%), followed by fever (12 cases, 20.69%). The viral load of herpes fluid specimens was significantly higher than that of throat swab specimens (P<0.05). Additionally, the first diagnosis reporting rate in infectious disease hospitals was significantly higher than that in non-infectious disease hospitals (P<0.05). Conclusion The mpox epidemic is mainly transmitted in MSM population in Tianjin, and the viral load in the herpes fluid of mpox patients is significantly higher than that in throat swab samples, and hospitals for infectious diseases have a higher rate of first diagnosis reporting. It is suggested that health publicity, education and monitoring of mpox control and prevention should be focused on MSM population, and the training of clinical doctors in non-communicable disease hospitals on diagnosis reports should be strengthened.
Objective To analyze epidemiological and clinical characteristics of mpox cases in He'nan Province in 2023-2024, and to provide references for mpox epidemic control and prevention. Methods Mpox cases reported in the Infectious Disease Reporting Information Management System from He'nan Province in 2023-2024 were served as the research subjects, and their epidemiological data and clinical characteristics information were collected and analyzed using descriptive study method. Results He'nan Province reported its first mpox case on July 11, 2023. The reporting rate peaked that same month at 32.65% (16/49), followed by a fluctuating downward trend. Throughout 2024, only sporadic cases were reported. By December 31, 2024, a cumulative total of 49 cases had been reported. All of mpox cases were young males, with age M(P25,P75) of 35(29, 38) years and no occupational cluster. Cases were concentrated in Zhengzhou City, accounting for 71.43% (35/49). The majority resided in urban areas, accounting for 79.59% (39/49). The main method of case detection was active medical seeking, accounting for 97.96%(48/49). Infectious disease hospitals reported the majority of cases, accounting for 83.67%( 41/49), followed by non-infectious disease general hospitals.accounting for 14.29%, (7/49). Among cases reporting male-to-male sexual contact within 21 days before symptom onset, 14 established contact via specific social networking apps. The initial symptom was predominantly rash (67.35%, 33/49), followed by fever (28.57%, 14/49). The main symptoms were rash and fever, which were 97.96%(48/49) and 67.35% (33/49), respectively. Among the cases, 35 (71.43%) were HIV-positive and 26 (53.06%) had syphilis infection; 24 cases (49.00%) were co-infected with both HIV and syphilis. The number of close contacts were mainly 0, accounting for 38.78%(19/49). The interval from suspected exposure to onset was 1 to 21 days, and interval M(P25,P75)of 9(4, 14.5) days. The interval from onset of symptoms to the first visit was 0 to 15 days, and interval M(P25,P75) of 2(0,5) days. Conclusion Mpox cases in He'nan Province are predominantly sporadic, with most identified through active medical consultation. The incidence of mpox showed obvious characteristics of population and spatial distribution. Targeted measures should be taken to reduce the occurrence of mpox cases.
Objective To analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of mpox cases in Jiangsu Province from 2023 to 2024, and to provide insights for epidemic prevention and control. Methods Individual case data for confirmed mpox patients whose current residence was in Jiangsu Province were extracted from China's National Legal Infectious Disease Reporting Information Management System for 2023-2024, along with corresponding case questionnaires in the Epidemiological Investigation Information System. Data were collated and descriptively analyzed, and an epidemic curve was plotted using Excel 2016. Chi-square tests and Fisher's exact test were used to compare baseline characteristics of mpox cases in 2023 versus 2024, as well as nucleic acid positivity rates among different specimen types. Results The first mpox case in Jiangsu was reported on 12 June 2023. A minor peak occurred from July to September in 2023, after which case numbers declined steadily, remaining at a low, fluctuating level from April to December 2024. By 31 December 2024, a total of 158 cases had been reported, with no severe or fatal cases. Most cases were male (99.4%, 157/158), men who have sex with men (95.6%, 151/158), 20 to <40 years old (82.3%, 130/158), houseworkers or unemployed (44.3%, 70/158), and unmarried (68.4%, 108/158). Histories of HIV and Treponema pallidum infection were present in 49.4% (78/158) and 26.6% (42/158) of patients, respectively. There were no significant differences between 2023 and 2024 cases in terms of gender, age, occupation, marital status, men who have sex with men (MSM), HIV infection status, or syphilis history (P>0.05). The median incubation period of mpox was 8.0 (5.0, 11.0) days, and the predominant clinical symptoms were rash (91.1%, 144/158), fever (60.8%, 96/158), and lymphadenopathy (34.2%, 54/158). Transmission routes included MSM contact, heterosexual contact, daily life contact, and exposure to contaminated objects, with MSM contact accounting for 89.2% (141/158) of infections. Most mpox cases in Jiangsu Province were sporadic (90.5%, 143/158) and were mainly identified through self-initiated medical consultation (93.7%, 148/158). The median time intervals from illness onset to first medical visit and to diagnosis were 3.0 (1.0, 6.0) days and 7.8 (5.6, 11.3) days, respectively. Conclusion Mpox cases in Jiangsu Province were predominantly sporadic, mainly transmitted through MSM contact, and largely detected via self-initiated consultation. Clinical symptoms were relatively mild, characterized chiefly by fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy. Targeted health education for high-risk groups such as MSM and continuous surveillance of mpox should be strengthened.
Objective To analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of 12 mpox cases reported in Hainan Province between 2023 and 2024, and to provide a scientific and effective basis for the prevention and control of the mpox epidemic. Methods All laboratory-confirmed mpox cases whose current residence was in Hainan Province and who were reported up to 31 December 2024 were included. Descriptive statistics and field epidemiological investigation were used to examine viral transmission patterns and clinical manifestations. Whole-genome sequencing was performed with second-generation sequencing technology to characterize the circulating mpox virus strains. Results The first mpox case residing in Hainan Province was reported in September 2023; by December 31, 2024, a total of 12 mpox cases had been reported. All cases were male, with a median age of 33 years. Transmission occurred predominantly through male-to-male sexual contact, and infections were mainly acquired from non-steady partners. The mean interval from onset to diagnosis was 5.00 days, and the mean incubation period (last exposure to onset) was 9.13 days. Most cases were detected through self-initiated medical consultation (83.30%, 10/12). Clinically, rashes (75.0%, 9/12) and fever (50.0%, 6/12) were the leading manifestations; two cases were co-infected with HIV. The sequencing results indicated that the mpox virus detected in Hainan Province belongs to the C1 sub-lineage of the clade Ⅱb. Conclusion In Hainan Province, mpox transmission is concentrated among men who have sex with men (MSM), with an average incubation period of 9.13 days and primary symptoms of rash and fever. Although clinical presentations are generally mild, the time from onset to definitive diagnosis remains relatively long, leading to missed diagnoses at initial visits. Epidemiological investigation and control measures face notable challenges, highlighting an urgent need to optimize prevention and control strategies to meet the challenges of the epidemic.
Objective To describe the epidemiological characteristics of mpox cases reported in Shandong Province from 2023 to 2024 and provide a basis for scientific prevention and control of mpox epidemics. Methods Information on mpox cases and case studies in Shandong Province was obtained from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention and the Epidemiological Survey Information System of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of mpox cases, and SPSS 25.0 statistical software was used for statistical analysis. Results The first confirmed case of mpox in Shandong Province was reported in Qingdao on June 15, 2023, and the cumulative number of cases reported up to December 2024 was 61, with no deaths. The cases were all male with age M (P25, P75) of 33 (29, 38) years. 53 (86.9%) self-reported MSM, 23 (37.7%) self-reported HIV infection, 15 (24.6%) self-reported syphilis infection, and 35 (57.4%) self-reported a history of homosexual contact in the 21 days prior to the onset of illness. The incidence of the disease reached a peak in July 2023, and then gradually declined to fewer than 3 cases per month. Eleven cities in Shandong Province were involved, with a total of 34 cases (55.7%) reported in Jinan and Qingdao. The cases were all detected on their own initiative, with an onset-to-visit interval M (P25, P75) of 3 (2, 6) days and an onset-to-diagnosis interval M (P25, P75) of 6 (4, 9) days. The main clinical symptoms of the cases were rash in 60 cases (98.4%), fever in 44 cases (72.1%), itchy skin in 31 cases (50.8%) and enlarged lymph nodes in 26 cases (42.6%). Conclusion Mpox in Shandong Province shows sporadic distribution and is largely confined to the MSM population. Strengthening health education for MSM through community organizations and enhancing training for healthcare facilities are recommended to achieve early detection, diagnosis, and treatment, thereby reducing the risk of epidemic transmission.
Objective To analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the reported mpox public health emergencies and related cases reported in Anhui Province from 2023 to 2024, providing a reference for mpox prevention and control. Methods Information on mpox public health emergencies and individual cases reported in Anhui Province from 2023 to 2024 was obtained through the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention. Descriptive epidemiological methods were employed to analyze the basic situation of the events, as well as the temporal, spatial, and population distributions of reported cases, their healthcare-seeking behaviors, and clinical features. Results In 2023, 19 mpox public health emergencies involving 22 cases were reported in 19 counties (districts) across 9 prefectures in Anhui Province, while no cases were reported in 2024. The reported events were concentrated between June and August (73.7%, 14/19), with Hefei City accounting for the highest proportion (26.3%, 5/19). Two of the events were clustered outbreaks, involving a total of 5 cases, the source of infection was possibly attributed to transmission through sexual contact with men who have sex with men (MSM) from other provinces. All involved cases were MSM, 77.3% (17/22) of the cases self-reporting previous HIV infection; the median incubation period was 6 d, and 86.4% (19/22) were identified through self-initiated medical visits. Nine cases were confirmed on their first medical visit, eight of whom consulted hospitals designated for antiretroviral therapy of AIDS. The main departments for medical consultation are Dermatology and Infectious Diseases (63.2%, 12/19). The number of visits prior to diagnosis was associated with both the department visited at the first consultation and whether the first visit was the designated hospital for antiretroviral therapy for AIDS (both P<0.05). Rash (50.0%, 11/22) and fever (22.7%, 5/22) were the initial symptoms. Conclusion Mpox in Anhui Province is at a low endemic level with sporadic cases, and rash is the primary initial symptom. Given the risk of hidden transmission of mpox among MSM, health education and targeted interventions for this key population should be strengthened.
Objective To collect and analyze the main clinical symptoms and epidemiological characteristics of confirmed mpox cases in Putuo District, Shanghai, and to provide suggestions for mpox prevention and control. Methods Clinical data and epidemiological information were collected for mpox cases residing in Putuo District from July 2023 to December 2024. Throat swab samples from household contacts of the case and environmental samples of the place of the patients' residence were collected. Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR was used for the detection of mpox virus nucleic acids. A descriptive epidemiological analysis was applied for data analysis. Results All 10 confirmed cases of mpox were male, aged 22-44 years, with a median age M (P25, P75) of 32.0 (28.3, 35.3) years. All were men who have sex with men (MSM) and had engaged in male-male sexual activity within 21 days before onset; nine cases had non-regular MSM sexual partners. No occupational or residential clustering was observed. Six cases were complicated with HIV infection, and two cases were complicated by syphilis infection. Fever and rash each presented as the first symptom in four cases; the main clinical symptoms were rash (in 10 cases) and fever (in 8 cases). Nine cases were discovered through active medical treatment, seven of whom chose tertiary hospitals for their first visit; five cases went to fever clinics or dermatology departments based on their first symptoms. The interval from last suspected high-risk exposure to onset, from onset to seeking medical consultation, from onset to diagnosis, and from onset to rash scab detachment were 4.0 (1.0, 8.8) days, 3.5 (2.0, 4.0) days, 5.5 (4.0, 7.0) days, and 16.0 (13.3, 18.0) days, respectively. The positive rate of environmental samples in the case's residence was 20.3%, while mpox virus nucleic acid was negative in throat swabs from all seven household contacts. Conclusion Mpox transmission in Putuo District is sporadic. Sexually active MSM are the key population for mpox prevention and control. Alongside targeted health education for this group, heightened diagnostic awareness among medical staff in fever clinics, dermatology departments, and other key hospital units is essential to facilitate case detection and curb transmission.
Objective To analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of confirmed mpox cases reported in Hu'nan Province from 2023 to 2024, providing evidence for control and prevention of mpox epidemics. Methods The data were collected from the National Infectious Disease Reporting Information Management System and the Epidemiological Investigation Information System. As of December 31, 2024, there were 81 mpox cases residing in Hu'nan Province had recorded. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, disease onset and healthcare-seeking behaviors, epidemiological history, clinical manifestations, and exposure history. Excel 19.0 was used for data organization and visualization. Descriptive analysis was conducted to summarize epidemiological characteristics, clinical features and healthcare-seeking behaviors. Results All 81 confirmed mpox cases were male, aged 18 to 54 years. The majority were commercial service workers (43 cases, 53.1%), and men who have sex with men (MSM) (77 cases, 95.1%). Thirty-seven cases (45.7%) reported a history of HIV infection. Cases were mainly identified through voluntary medical consultation (78 cases, 96.3%). The interval between symptom onset and confirmed diagnosis ranged from 0 to 32 days, with median of 6 days, and the first-visit detection rate was 62.8%. Initial symptoms predominantly included rash (46 cases, 56.8%) and fever (24 cases, 29.6%). Main clinical symptoms comprised rash (76 cases, 93.8%), fever (51 cases, 63.0%), and lymphadenopathy (29 cases, 35.8%). And 41 cases(50.6%) were single exposure with confirmed exposure timing, the median incubation period was 10 days. The whole genome sequencing results of 36 positive samples were mpox virus Ⅱb. Conclusion The mpox epidemic primarily affects the MSM population in Hu'nan Province, with transmission driven by male-to-male sexual contact and a median incubation period of 10 days. Clinical presentations are generally mild, characterized by rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy. The comprehensive intervention service system for AIDS prevention and control should be utilized to enhance health education for key populations, and to implement the early detection, diagnosis and intervention of cases.
Objective To analyze the epidemiological and exposure characteristics of mpox cases in Sichuan Province from 2023 to 2024, and to provide a scientific basis for the subsequent prevention and control efforts. Methods Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to analyze the prevalence and exposure characteristics of confirmed mpox cases reported in Sichuan Province between 2023 and 2024. Results A total of 168 confirmed mpox cases were reported in Sichuan Province during 2023-2024. The reporting peak occurred in weeks 27 to 35 (July to August) of 2023, followed by a low-level fluctuating trend after week 36 (September). The majority of cases were male (99.40%, 167/168), unmarried (70.83%, 119/168), aged 30-<40 years (51.19%, 86/168), men who have sex with men (MSM) (90.42% of male cases, 151/167), and detected through self-initiated healthcare seeking (95.83%, 161/168). Self-reported HIV infection was noted in 36.31% (61/168) of cases. The main clinical symptoms were rash (93.57%, 157/168), fever (54.17%, 91/168), and lymph node enlargement (34.52%, 58/168). The incubation period was 7 (4, 10) days. Within 21 days before onset, 79.16% (133/168) of cases had a history of sexual contact, and 76.19% (128/168) had a history of male-to-male sexual contact. Among the cases with a history of MSM contact in the 21 days before onset, most partners were casual contacts met through dating apps with limited personal information (63.28%, 81/128). The initial-visit diagnostic accuracy rate was 50.93% (82/168). The median interval from symptom onset to first medical visit was 3 (2, 6) days, and from onset to confirmation was 6 (4, 8) days. Conclusion Mpox in Sichuan province is primarily transmitted through male-to-male sexual contact, and clinical presentations are typically characteristic. High-risk populations should be encouraged to adopt informed partnering strategies, and integrated prevention efforts for sexually transmitted infections and HIV should be reinforced. Strengthened diagnostic and treatment training is crucial for the timely detection, identification, and management of cases to prevent spread to the general population.
Objective To improve the transmission chain of the first imported asymptomatic type Ⅰb mpox virus infected patient in China, through environmental testing and epidemiologic investigation. Methods An epidemiological investigation of the 'close contact person a' of the first confirmed case of mpox type Ⅰb in China in 2024 was conducted, to understand its morbidity and history of high-risk exposure. Environmental swab samples were collected from frequently touched personal items and environmental surfaces within the hotel, as well as visibly soiled personal items of 'close contact person a', while throat swab specimens were simultaneously collected from the contacts person of 'close contact person a', real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction testing and sequence analysis were used to detected samples, and to improve chain of transmission. Results On December 30, 2024, a confirmed case of type Ⅰb mpox was found in A province, China, tracing investigations revealed that the case had sexual sexual activity with 'close contact person a' who had entered from Democratic Republic of Congo on December 14, 2024. From December 5, 2024 to January 3, 2025, this 'close contact person a' remained asymptomatic. The swab samples collected by customs inspection in December 5 2024, and throat swabs, blood samples, and environment samples of 'close contact person a' in January 1, 2025 were collected, all of them were negative for mpox virus nucleic acid. From January 2 to 3, 2025, a total of 26 samples of the case's early personal contact items, living and workplace environment were collected after entered in C province, China, of them, 5 were tested positive for mpox virus nucleic acid. Conclusion Through environmental testing for source tracing and epidemiological investigation, this study has improved the epidemiological transmission chain of the first latent case of type Ⅰb mpox in China, emphasizing significance of environmental testing in the source tracing of mpox cases. It is of great significance for identification of mpox cases, infection control strategies, and contact tracing management.
Mpox virus, a zoonotic orthopoxvirus, has emerged as a major public health concern in recent years due to its recurrent global outbreaks, posing a serious threat to human health. Currently, pathogen detection methods are widely used to confirm infections and classify mpox virus strains, thereby facilitating the study of its epidemiological characteristics. However, these approaches fail to elucidate the interaction mechanisms between the host immune system and the virus. With the development of immunological detection technologies, an increasing number of methods for evaluating host immune responses have been developed, playing a critical role in the disease diagnosis, prevention, control, and vaccine development for mpox. This article comprehensively dissects the immunological testing landscape from various perspectives: protein detection (antigens, antibodies, and cytokines), cellular immune characteristics (T-cell epitope recognition and dynamic cytokine monitoring), providing detailed analysis of their detection principles, clinical advantages, and technical limitations. By integrating multi-omics data and clinical validation studies, the review further outlines future development directions, including standardized detection protocol establishment, multi-modal technology integration strategies, and AI-assisted diagnostic models. These insights offer theoretical support and translational pathways for establishing a new research paradigm in mpox virus immunodiagnostic technologies.
Since 2022, the mpox epidemic has rapidly spread worldwide, posing a serious threat to human health. Vaccination against mpox is a crucial measure to prevent its infection and outbreaks. However, there remains an uneven distribution of vaccine resources globally, particularly in low-income countries or regions in Africa, which has aroused widespread public concern over the fairness of vaccine allocation. This article reviewed the global epidemic situation of mpox, the types of mpox vaccines, the status of supply, the mechanisms and strategies for vaccine allocation and the difficulties and challenges faced. The aim was to understand the disparities and inequities in the global distribution and access to mpox vaccines, to provide a reference for optimizing the global resource allocation strategy of mpox vaccines, and protect the health of people in different regions of the world.
Objective To investigate the antimicrobial function of Microplusin-like peptide gene in Rhipicephalus linnaei to provide a new reference for the understanding of the innate immune system of Rhipicephalus linnaei, and the development of tick preventive and controlling drugs and new antibiotic substitution. Methods Specific primers were designed according to the sequence of Microplusin-like gene of Rhipicephalus linnaei, RNA of Rhipicephalus linnaei was extracted and reverse transcribed into cDNA, and the gene fragment was amplified by PCR, ligated into the pCold-SUMO plasmid, constructed recombinant expression vector pCold-SUMO/Microplusin-like, then transferred into E. coli Rosetta (DE3) receptor cells, the protein was obtained after induced expression and purification; the inhibition circles of the recombinant protein against E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus were determined by the filter paper slice method, and minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of the recombinant protein against E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus was measured by the trace-pair-fold dilution method. The minimum inhibitory concentration(MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration(MBC) were determined by dilution method, and bactericidal effect of the protein was investigated by measuring effect of the protein on the growth curve and time-bactericidal curve of E. coli. The effects of the recombinant protein on microscopic morphology of E. coli were observed through scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, the antibacterial mechanism of the recombinant protein was investigated using molecular docking technology. Results The length of fragment obtained from the Microplusin-like gene amplification of Rhipicephalus linnaei was 333 bp, and the prokaryotic expression vector pCold-SUMO/Microplusin-like was constructed, and induced to express and purify to obtain the protein, which had a size of about 29 kDa. The results of the bacterial inhibition test showed that the recombinant protein had inhibition circles diameters of 15.80, 20.58, 18.33, 15.40, 18.24 and 18.18 mm against E. coli (ATCC 25922, 1515, 987P, K88, K99) and Salmonella CVCC1791, respectively, which showed moderate or high sensitivity; the MICs (MBCs) were 0.625 (5), 0.625 (>5), 0.625 (5), 1.25 (>5), 0.625 (>5) and 0.625 (>5) mg/mL, respectively, with certain differences; there were no inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus; the growth curve and time-bactericidal curve assay revealed inhibitory activity of the recombinant protein was concentration-dependent. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy showed that after treatment with recombinant protein, E. coli bacterium was crumpled, the edge was blurred, the cell wall and cell membrane appeared to be broken, the contents were leaked out, and interior of the cell was loosened. Molecular docking showed that the protein bound to the structure of E. coli outer membrane lipopolysaccharide transporter protein through hydrogen bonding, salt bridges and hydrophobic interactions. Conclusion Microplusin-like peptide of Rhipicephalus linnaei has antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, and the preliminary analysis of antimicrobial mechanism is to damage the cell wall and cell membrane structure, which provides a reference for the development of new control strategies and antibiotic substitution for ticks.
Objective To investigate the effect of lidocaine (LID) on pulmonary inflammation in rats with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) by regulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway. Methods Sixty rats were randomly divided into normal group, PTB group, LID low-dose group, LID high-dose group, and LID high-dose+anisomycin (ANS) group, twelve rats in every group. A PTB model was established by injecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) bacterial solution into the tail vein. After intervention with LID and MAPK activator ANS, the Mtb colony count in lung tissue of rats in each group was detected. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was applied for pathological morphology detection of lung tissue. Acid fast staining was applied to detect Mtb infection in lung tissue. The number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was detected. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was applied to detect serum levels of inflammatory IL-17, IL-6, TNF-α. Immunoblotting was applied to detect expression of MAPK/NF-κB pathway proteins in lung tissue. Results The numbers of Mtb colony, macrophage, lymphocyte, and leukocyte, the levels of IL-17, TNF-α and IL-6, p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK and p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65in the lung tissue of rats in PTB group were significantly higher than those in the normal group (P<0.05). The numbers of colony, macrophage, lymphocyte, and leukocyte, the levels of IL-17, TNF-α and IL-6, p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK and p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 in the lung tissue of rats in LID low- and high-dose groups were significantly lower than those in the PTB group (P<0.05), and the indicators in the LID high-dose group were further reduced compared to the LID low-dose group (P<0.05). The numbers of Mtb colony, macrophage, lymphocyte, and leukocyte, the levels of IL-17, TNF-α and IL-6, p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK and p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 in the lung tissue of rats in LID high-dose+ANS group were significantly higher than those in the LID high-dose group (P<0.05). Conclusion LID can alleviate pulmonary inflammation in PTB rats by inhibiting the activation of MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Objective To analyze treatment outcomes of rifampicin-sensitive tuberculosis patients registered in Chongqing metropolitan area from 2016 to 2023, identify potential factors affecting patient treatment outcomes, and we provide a reference for relevant departments to formulate tuberculosis control and prevention policies. Methods Medical records of rifampicin-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis patients registered were exported from Tuberculosis Information Management System from 2016 to 2023. Information on patients' sociodemographic basics, disease conditions, and treatment outcomes was obtained. The χ2 test and binary logistic regression model were used to analyze factors influencing patient treatment outcomes. Results A total of 77 466 patients were included in the treatment outcome cohort analysis, with a successful treatment rate of 92.94% (71 997/77 466), and an incidence of adverse outcomes of 7.06% (5 469/77 466). There was no linear trend in successful treatment rate over the 8 years (χ2trend=0.009, P=0.924). Logistic regression model analysis showed that factors associated with a higher risk of unsuccessful treatment included first-visit medical institution at the tertiary level (OR=0.86, 95%CI:0.80-0.91), HIV-positive status (OR=0.39, 95%CI:0.34-0.45), retreatment cases (OR=0.68, 95%CI:0.62-0.74), pathologically positive (OR=0.60, 95%CI: 0.56-0.64), older age groups ("20-<40" group OR=0.58, 95%CI: 0.45-0.74; "40-<60" group OR=0.32, 95%CI: 0.25-0.41; "≥60" group OR=0.15, 95%CI:0.12-0.20), comorbid diabetes (OR=0.74, 95%CI: 0.68-0.80) and other chronic diseases (OR=0.76, 95%CI: 0.69-0.84). Females (OR=1.56, 95%CI: 1.44-1.68) and the use of fixed-dose combination (FDC) anti-tuberculosis drugs (OR=1.12, 95%CI: 1.05-1.19) were protective factors for successful treatment. Conclusions In the management of pulmonary tuberculosis patients, special attention should be given to patients with first-visit medical institutions at tertiary level, males, the elderly, HIV-positive, retreatment, etiological positive, comorbid diabetes and other chronic diseases. Targeted support and care should be provided to these patients to improve treatment outcomes.
Objective To analyze the clinical distribution, resistance profiles, virulence genes, and molecular types of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps Hospital (hereafter referred to as Corps Hospital) from 2016 to 2023, and thereby provide data support for in-hospital MRSA risk assessment and control strategies in the region. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted to examine the clinical sources and antimicrobial-resistance patterns of MRSA isolates detected at the Corps Hospital from 2016 to 2023. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to identify resistance genes, virulence genes, and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) characteristics of certain MRSA isolates. Results A total of 2 644 Staphylococcus aureus (SA) isolates were isolated from 2016 to 2023, of which 855 (32.3%) were identified as MRSA. The MRSA isolation rate showed a significant downward trend (χ2=19.165, P<0.05). Except for trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, MRSA displayed higher resistance rates to all tested antimicrobials than methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA). Specifically, the resistance rates of MRSA to erythromycin and clindamycin were 70.6% (604/855) and 60.9% (521/855), respectively, and rates to several other agents were also high. A total of eight drug-resistant genes were detected in 40 randomly selected isolates of MRSA; phenotypic-genotypic concordance was 100 % for mecA and blaZ and 81.8 % for ermA. Among the 10 virulence genes tested, the detection rate of hemolysin hla and hld were 100.0%, and the detection rate of the surface-related factor cap8H was 57.5%. A total of 10 sequence types (STs) were obtained through MLST typing, with ST59 predominating (14 isolates, 35%). The isolates belonged to five clonal complexes (CCs), most commonly CC59 (20 isolates, 50%). Conclusion The MRSA isolation rate at Corps Hospital declined overall from 2016 to 2023, yet the strains remained highly drug-resistant, carried diverse resistance genes, and harbored multiple virulence genes. It is essential to maintain vigilance regarding the evolving patterns of drug resistance in MRSA.
Objective To analyze the drug resistance genes and homology of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP), and to understand the carriage and epidemic spread of drug resistance genes in high-risk departments. This study aims to provide references for further molecular epidemiological monitoring of CRKP within the region, to prevent its spread and epidemic. Methods Clinical information and CRKP strains isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and qualified sputum samples of patients in the Intensive Care Unit and Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine at Panyu Central Hospital affiliated with Guangzhou Medical University during 2022-2023 were collected. Antimicrobial susceptibility phenotypes were obtained using Vitek2 and Kirby-Bauer manual methods. Whole genome sequencing was utilized for analyzing resistance genes, MLST, capsular typing, and virulence factors prediction. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on whole genome single nucleotide polymorphism analysis. Results A total of 17 CRKP strains were isolated from 2022 to 2023, mainly from male, elderly patients with long hospital stays (88.24%, 15/17). These strains carried more than 20 types of resistance genes, primarily β-lactamases (100.00%, 17/17), quinolones (94.12%, 16/17), and aminoglycosides (82.35%, 14/17). All strains carried carbapenemase genes, including blaKPC-2 (82.35%, 14/17), blaOXA-181 (11.76%, 2/17), and blaNDM-1 (5.88%, 1/17). Except for one strain carrying blaNDM-1 that was resistant to ceftazidime/avibactam, the rest were sensitive to this drug(94.12%, 16/17). The predominant MLST type was ST11 (70.59%, 12/17). The primary capsular type was KL64 (82.35%, 14/17). The main virulence factors were iron carrier-related genes, including aerobactin (76.47%, 13/17) and yersinibactin (88.24%, 15/17), but the rmpA/rmpA2 locus was not detected. Homology analysis showed clonal clusters, with closely related clone group A sporadically present in both departments at different times. Conclusion CRKP carries complex and diverse resistance genes and high virulence factors simultaneously. The ST11-KL64 strain is the dominant epidemic clone, and there is a risk of nosocomial transmission by one dominant clone group.
Objective To exploit the active expression of Mycobacterium tuberculosis resuscitation-promoting factor-interacting protein A (RipA) during bacterial proliferation, establish an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based serological diagnostic method, and provide an experimental basis for the development of new rapid diagnostic technologies for tuberculosis. Methods Using the whole genome of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) H37Rv as a template, corresponding primers were synthesized to amplify C-terminal (RipAc) and N-terminal (RipAn) fragments of RipA. The amplicons were cloned into pET-28a to generate recombinant plasmids pET28a-RipAc and pET28a-RipAn, which were then expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to obtain the corresponding antigens. Then, an ELISA method was established with several antigens to detect 105 clinical serum samples from patients with active tuberculosis (ATB) and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), and the detection results were analyzed. Results Recombinant plasmids pET28a-RipAc and pET28a-RipAn were successfully constructed, and high-purity RipAc and RipAn proteins were obtained. At the same time, ESAT6/CFP10 fusion proteins (EC) were expressed and purified as a reference antigen. When evaluated by ELISA, RipAc showed a sensitivity of 67.9%, specificity of 86.5%, and overall diagnostic efficiency of 77.1%. RipAn yielded a sensitivity of 43.4%, specificity of 90.4%, and diagnostic efficiency of 66.7%. The EC fusion protein exhibited a sensitivity of 66.0%, specificity of 75.0%, and diagnostic efficiency of 70.5%. Conclusions This study successfully established an ELISA method based on Mycobacterium tuberculosis RipA, and confirmed that RipAc has the potential to be a candidate antigen for distinguishing ATB from LITB.
Objective To analyze molecular typing and drug resistance characteristics of isolates from 8 foodborne outbreaks of Vibrio parahaemolyticus(VP) in Xindu District, Chengdu from 2014 to 2020, in order to provide scientific basis for control and prevention of foodborne outbreaks of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Xindu District. Methods Totally 92 strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus were analyzed by serotype, virulence gene test, drug sensitivity test and pulsed field gel electrophoresis. Results All 92 strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus were detected with five serum groups: O1, O2, O3, O4, and O8. O1 group (52 strains, 56.52%) and O4 group (30 strains, 32.61%) were the dominant serum groups; tdh gene carrying rate of human isolates was 97.37% (74/76), among which one patient isolate O4:K9 from 2014 carried both tdh and trh genes; Both food and environmental isolates didn't carry tdh and trh genes; The resistance rates to cefazolin and polymyxin E were 93.48% (86/92) and 88.33% (53/60), respectively, with a multidrug resistance rate of 1.09% (1/92). The resistance spectrum was CT-CFZ-SXT. The PFGE molecular typing of 92 strains in 8 events could be divided into 36 band types. The strains from the same incident presented diverse banding patterns. Among them, the isolates from patients, food and environment in 2 incidents shared the same banding pattern, and 2 identical banding patterns were also found in 4 different incidents. Conclusion The foodborne outbreaks of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Xindu District, Chengdu from 2014 to 2020 were mostly mixed infections of two or more serotypes, and the PFGE types were diverse; The strain has a high resistance rate to cefazolin and polymyxin E. It is suggested that when Vibrio parahaemolyticus causes an outbreak, multiple strains can be isolated from the same sample for analysis, or high-throughput sequencing can be conducted for traceability analysis to provide data support for control and prevention of foodborne outbreaks of Vibrio parahaemolyticus.
Objective To systematically analyze the treatment outcomes and their influencing factors among pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) patients in Nanchang City from 2019 to 2023, thereby providing scientific evidence for developing targeted interventions and optimizing treatment protocols. Methods Using registration date and current management region as screening criteria, case data on pulmonary TB patients registered in Nanchang City from 2019 to 2023 were exported from the Tuberculosis Information Management System, a subsystem of the China Disease Prevention and Control Information System under the National Health Security Informatization Project. Statistical analyses were performed using χ2 tests and logistic regression. Results A total of 16 090 TB patients were included, among whom 15 577 cases achieved successful treatment, yielding a cure rate of 96.81%. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that patients aged 35-64 years (OR=3.951, 95%CI: 2.411-6.476) and ≥65 years (OR=13.814, 95%CI: 8.577-22.250), those referred through referral/tracking/recommendation/other (OR=1.261, 95%CI: 1.016-1.567), retreatment cases (OR=2.010, 95%CI: 1.556-2.596), bacteriologically confirmed cases (OR=1.692, 95%CI: 1.395-2.052), and non-primary healthcare management cases (OR=53.579, 95%CI: 33.040-86.885) were all significantly associated with unfavorable treatment outcomes. In contrast, female gender (OR=0.556, 95%CI: 0.435-0.710) and absence of comorbidities (OR=0.541, 95%CI: 0.349-0.838) were associated with higher cure rates. Conclusion From 2019 to 2023, treatment outcomes of TB patients in Nanchang City were significantly associated with age, gender, patient source, treatment type, bacteriological results, whether they were managed at the primary care level, and presence of comorbidities. Therefore, developing personalized intervention measures and management strategies based on patient characteristics could effectively improve treatment success rates and optimize TB prevention and control efforts.
Objective To master the main sources of Echinococcus granulosus strains in some non-endemic areas of Xinjiang, and to clarify the gene polymorphism of epidemic strains. Methods Suspected samples of bovine and sheep cysts were collected from Hetian City, Shule County, Tianshan District and Shayibake District of Urumqi City from April to June 2023. DNA from the tissue was extracted, and the COX1 gene fragment was amplified and sequenced by PCR. The sequence was uploaded to the NCBI website for BLAST comparison, and the COX1 gene polymorphism was analyzed by DnaSP software. NetWork10 was used to draw the Haplotype network diagram, and MEGA11 software was used to construct COX1 gene phylogenetic tree. Results DNA extraction and PCR amplification were performed on 28 suspected cysts, and 22 samples showed specific bands at about 880 bp and were successfully sequenced. The results of DNA polymorphism analysis showed that the results of high haplotype diversity were Hd=0.758±0.078, and the results of low nucleotide diversity were Pi=0.005 31±0.003 29. Haplotype grid diagram showed that there were 8 haplotypes in COX1 gene sequence, and Hap6 was the main haplotype. The phylogenetic tree of COX1 gene showed that 15 of the 22 sample sequences were clustered with E. granulosus (AF297617), which was the G1 genotype of E. granulosus. Seven sequences were grouped together with E.granulosus (KJ559023) as the G3 genotype of E. granulosus. Conclusion The main genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus in Hetian City, Shule County, Tianshan District and Shayibake District of Urumqi were G1 and G3. Hap6 was the dominant haplotype.
Objective To provide a reference for targeted malaria prevention and control by analyzing a cluster outbreak of Africa-imported malaria in Shenzhen. Methods Information on 91 returnees from Guinea to Shenzhen in August 2022 and detailed case data on 14 confirmed cases were collected. Descriptive methods were used to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and laboratory findings of both the cases and their traveling companions. Results Among the 91 Guinean returnees, 89 were male and 2 were female, with an average age of 38. All were engaged in road and bridge construction work. A history of malaria was reported by 65.93% (60/91), yet only 15.00% (9/60) knew about the medication for malaria. Two rounds of rapid diagnostic testing (RDT) identified 31 confirmed positive cases. Fourteen cases were diagnosed as malaria, accounting for 15.38% (14/91). All 14 were polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive: 12 cases of Plasmodium falciparum, 1 case of Plasmodium ovale, and 1 case of Plasmodium malariae. Microscopy detected parasites in 7 of these cases: 5 cases of Plasmodium falciparum, 1 case of Plasmodium ovale, and 1 case of Plasmodium malariae. Asymptomatic infections constituted 35.71% (5/14). All cases were male, aged 24-42 years. The average duration of their most recent work assignment in Africa was 9 months, and all of them were engaged in outdoor work, with a history of mosquito bites. Conclusion Overseas workers in Africa face a high risk of malaria infection and demonstrate low awareness of self-protection. Therefore, health education for overseas workers should be intensified to enhance their awareness of seeking medical treatment, while training for medical personnel at all kinds of medical institutions must be strengthened to improve malaria diagnosis and treatment capabilities.
To study and analyze the epidemiological data, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, laboratory examination and other treatment processes of severe imported artemisinin based drugs resistant falciparum malaria cases, and to provide empirical basis for clinical treatment of severe drug-resistant falciparum malaria cases. The epidemiological data, clinical characteristics, diagnostic methods and therapeutic measures of this imported case of severe falciparum malaria were collected, analyzed and summarized according to the guidelines, and the malaria type and density were monitored by thick and thin peripheral blood film microscopy. PCR amplification of Plasmodium-specific gene sequences, antigen detection and other methods were used to determine the type of malaria in patients, and density monitoring was conducted for clinical efficacy observation. The data showed that the patient had a clear travel history to Africa and became ill after returning home. Plasmodium falciparum infection was confirmed by microscopic smear, antigen test and genetic test. According to the clinical manifestations and laboratory examination indicators, it was confirmed as a severe case of falciparum malaria. In the course of treatment, artemisinin resistance was found according to the density of Plasmodium, and the treatment plan was adjusted to achieve clinical cure. The investigation of epidemiological history and laboratory detection are very important for the early diagnosis and treatment of severe malaria, which can reduce the mortality. Density monitoring of Plasmodium plays an important role in preventing artemisinin resistance during treatment. Severe malaria is a dangerous disease with a high fatality rate, requires antimalarial treatment and comprehensive emergency measures.