Table of Content

15 April 2024, Volume 36 Issue 2

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Collaboration between clinical and public health services: an important guarantee for consolidating malaria elimination achievements

YIN Jianhai, ZHANG Li, XIA Zhigui

2024, 36(2):  111-115. 

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There are still multiple challenges in China during the malaria post⁃elimination phase, including a large number of imported malaria cases with widespread distribution, low awareness of timely healthcare seeking, insufficient malaria diagnosis and treatment capacity of medical institutions and insufficient malaria surveillance and response capability of disease control and prevention institutions. As the core technical institutions for preventing the re⁃establishment of malaria transmission, both medical institutions and disease control and prevention institutions are required to enhance the collaboration between clinical and public health services, improve the malaria diagnosis and quality management system, intensify case identification and epidemiological investigations, and improve the management mechanism of antimalarial drug reserves. In addition, doctors are encouraged to become the main force in the health education and promotion of malaria prevention to improve the public health literacy. These approaches are recommended to improve the overall capability of timely identification, standardized treatment and effective response of imported malaria cases, so as to continuously consolidate the malaria elimination achievements in China.

Prevalence of Enterobius vermicularis infections among children in China from 2016 to 2021: a meta⁃analysis

LI Xuecheng, MAO Fanzhen, WANG Yi, LIU Yaobao, CAO Jun

2024, 36(2):  116-129. 

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Objective　To investigate the prevalence of Enterobius vermicularis infections among children in China from 2016 to 2021, so as to provide insights into enterobiasis control and formulation of the enterobiasis control strategy among children. Methods　Publications pertaining to the prevalence of E. vermicularis infections among children were retrieved from Wanfang Data, CNKI, VIP and PubMed databases published from January 2016 to June 2023. Eligible publications were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the publication bias was evaluated using the assessment tool for prevalence studies proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute Evidence⁃Based Practice Resources in Australia. The study period, study areas, study subjects, sample size and number of infections were extracted from publications, and a pooled analysis was performed using a meta⁃analysis. A meta⁃regression analysis was performed with the prevalence of E. vermicularis infections as an independent variable, and sample size, source of samples, study area, study method, geographical area and province as dependent variables to identify the source of the study heterogeneity. Results　A total of 66 studies were included, covering 23 provinces (municipalities, autonomous regions) in China, and with the investigations conducted between 2016 and 2021. Meta⁃analysis showed that the pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infections was 4.5%［95% confidence interval (CI): (3.1%, 6.0%)］ among children in China from 2016 to 2021, and the annual prevalence was 4.1%［95% CI: (2.2%, 6.5%)］, 4.2%［95% CI: (2.4%, 6.6%)］, 4.2%［95% CI: (2.2%, 6.8%)］, 3.2%［95% CI: (1.5%, 5.4%)］, 2.3%［95% CI: (0.9%, 4.3%)］ and 1.1%［95% CI: (0.4%, 2.1%)］ from 2016 to 2021. The pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infections was 4.9%［95% CI: (3.4%, 6.8%)］ in studies with a sample size of < 5 000 cases, which was higher than that in studies with a sample size of 5 000 cases and higher ［2.1%, 95% CI: (0.2%, 3.6%)］, and the pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infections was 5.2%［95% CI: (2.9%, 8.2%)］ among subjects from schools, which was higher than that among subjects from communities ［4.2%, 95% CI: (2.7%, 6.0%)］. The pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infections was 4.4%［95% CI: (2.8%, 6.2%)］ among children included in comprehensive surveillance, which was higher than that among children included in specific surveillance ［4.8%, 95% CI: (2.6%, 7.7%)］, and the pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infections was 5.7%［95% CI: ( 3.8%, 7.8%)］ among children included in county⁃level surveys, which was higher than that among children included in city⁃ ［4.8%, 95% CI: (2.3%, 8.0%)］ and province⁃level surveys ［1.8%, 95% CI: (0.3%, 4.7%)］. In addition, the pooled prevalence of E. vermicularis infections was higher among children in southern China ［11.3%, 95% CI: (7.5%, 15.7%)］ than that in central China ［5.2%, 95% CI: (2.8%, 8.2%)］, eastern China ［5.2%, 95% CI: (2.8%, 8.2%)］ and southwestern China ［2.6%, 95% CI: (1.4%, 4.1%)］. Meta⁃regression analysis identified geographical area and survey province as factors affecting the study heterogeneity. Conclusions　Currently, the overall prevalence of E. vermicularis infections is moderate among children in China, and the prevalence varies greatly in regions, with a high prevalence rate in southern China and presence of small⁃scale clusters. Enterobiasis surveillance and health education pertaining to enterobiasis control are required with adaptations to local circumstance to reduce the prevalence of E. vermicularis infections among children.

Epidemiological characteristics of leptospirosis in China from 2010 to 2022

SHI Yue, GENG Mengjie, ZHOU Sheng, CHEN Xi, SUN Junling, TIAN Xueying, XU Hong, LI Yu, ZHENG Canjun

2024, 36(2):  130-136. 

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Objective　To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of leptospirosis in China from 2010 to 2022, so as to provide insights into formulation of the leptospirosis control strategy. Methods　All data pertaining to clinically diagnosed cases and confirmed cases of leptospirosis reported in China from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2022 was collected from Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Information Management System. The spatial, temporal and population distributions, and report and diagnosis institutions of leptospirosis cases were analyzed using a descriptive epidemiological method. Results　A total of 4 559 leptospirosis cases were reported in China from 2010 to 2022, with an annual average number of 351 cases, and the number of reported leptospirosis cases reduced from 679 cases in 2010 to 158 cases in 2018. A total of 4 276 leptospirosis cases were reported in Sichuan Province, Yunnan Province, Guangdong Province, Hunan Province, Fujian Province, Zhejiang Province, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Anhui Province, Jiangxi Province and Guizhou Province, accounting for 93.79% of the total number of leptospirosis cases in China. The number of leptospirosis cases had recently appeared a remarkable decline in Yunnan Province, while a significant rise was seen in the number of leptospirosis cases in two provinces of Zhejiang and Guangdong. No leptospirosis cases were reported in Henan Province from 2010 to 2020l; however, there were 5 cases and 2 cases reported in 2021 and 2022, respectively. There was only one leptospirosis case reported in Shaanxi Province from 2010 to 2017; however, leptospirosis cases were reported in the province for 5 consecutive years since 2018. Leptospirosis cases were reported throughout the year in China from 2010 to 2022, with the peak of incidence found during the period between August and October, and the peak of leptospirosis incidence varied in provinces. A higher number of leptospirosis cases was seen among men than among women, with a male to female ratio of 2.3∶1, and the median age of leptospirosis cases was 50 years (interquartile range, 23 years), with the highest proportion of leptospirosis cases reported at ages of 51 to 60 years (23.21%). Among all reported leptospirosis cases, 53.28% were confirmed cases, and the proportion of confirmed cases increased from 35.05% in 2010 to 61.66% in 2022. In addition, there were 67.22% of leptospirosis cases (2 937 cases) reported by comprehensive hospitals, 20.44% (893 cases) by disease control and prevention institutions, 7.23% (316 cases) by grassroots healthcare institutions and 5.10% (223 cases) by other healthcare and medical institutions, and the mortality of reported leptospirosis cases was 1.07% in China from 2010 to 2022, with a higher mortality seen among men than among women (1.39% vs. 0.36%; [χ2] = 9.52, P = 0.002). Conclusions　The incidence of leptospirosis remained at a low level in China from 2010 to 2022, and southern China was still the main endemic area for leptospirosis. The epidemiological characteristics of leptospirosis cases varied in endemic provinces, and leptospirosis cases had been continued to be reported in Shaanxi and Henan provinces, which should be paid much attention to. Intensified surveillance of leptospirosis, improved diagnosis and treatment capability of leptospirosis cases and leptospirosis control with adaptations to local circumstance are recommended.

Screening and functional analysis of differentially expressed long non⁃coding RNA in the liver of mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum during the chronic pathogenic stage

LI Yinlong, LI Qin, LIN Weina, FENG Ting, QIN Zhiqiang, CAO Chunli, LI Shizhu, XU Jing

2024, 36(2):  137-147. 

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Objective　To screen differentially expressed long non⁃coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the liver of mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum during the chronic pathogenic stage and identify their functions, so as to provide insights into unraveling the role of lncRNAs in S. japonicum infection⁃induced liver disorders. Methods　Twenty 6⁃week⁃old C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into two groups, of 10 animals each group. Each mouse in the experimental group was infected with (15 ± 2) S. japonicum cercariae via the abdomen for modeling chronic S. japonicum infection in mice, and distilled water served as controls. All mice were sacrificed 70 days post⁃infection, and mouse liver specimens were sampled for RNA extraction and library construction. All libraries were sequenced on the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 sequencing platform. Data cleaning was performed using the fastp software, and reference genome alignment and gene expression (FPKM) calculation were performed using the HISAT2 software. Potential lncRNA sequences were predicted using the software CNIC, CPC, Pfam, and PLEK, and potential lncRNAs were screened. Differentially expressed lncRNAs were screened with the DESeq2 software and subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses to identify biological processes and metabolic pathways involved in target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs. Results　A total of 333 potential lncRNAs were screened, and 67 were identified as differentially expressed lncRNAs, including 49 up⁃regulated and 18 down⁃regulated lncRNAs. A total of 53 target genes were predicted for differentially expressed lncRNAs. GO enrichment analysis showed that these target genes were mainly enriched in biological process and molecular function, among which Sema7a, Arrb1, and Ccl21b genes may be hub target genes for positive regulation of extracellular regulated protein kinase 1 (ERK1) and ERK2 cascades and may participate in the regulation of collagen expression. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the target genes of differentially expressed lncRNAs were mainly enriched in cytokine⁃cytokine receptor interaction, viral protein interactions with cytokines and cytokine receptors, chemokine signaling pathway, and nuclear factor kappa⁃B (NF⁃κB) signaling pathway. Conclusions　This study identifies differentially expressed lncRNAs and functional enrichment of their target genes in the liver of mice during the chronic pathogenic stage of S. japonicum infection. Up⁃regulated lncRNAs may affect biological processes of ERK1/2 cascades and chemokine signaling pathways via target genes Sema7a, Arrb1, and Ccl21b, thereby affecting collagen expression and inflammatory signal pathways, ultimately affecting the development of liver disorders.

Soil microorganisms and physicochemical properties in marshlands along the Yangtze River basin at different types of land use and their effects on distribution of Oncomelania hupensis snails

HE Huan, ZHOU Jinxing, GAO Zixin, LU Zichun, DAI Renlong, HU Xingyi, PANG Hongdong

2024, 36(2):  148-153,200. 

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Objective　To investigating the microbial communities and physicochemical properties of soil and distribution of Oncomelania hupensis snails in marshlands along the Yangtze River basin at different types of land use, and to examine the effects of soil microorganisms and physicochemical properties on snail distribution, so as to provide insights into snail control and schistosomiasis prevention in marshland along the Yangtze River basin. Methods　Marshlands with four types of land use were selected along the Yangtze River basin on April 2021, including poplar forest⁃crops integrated planting, reed areas, agricultural cultivation lands and ditches. The distribution of snails and physicochemical properties of soil were investigated in marshlands with different types of land use, and the V3 to V4 regions of the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene, fungal internal transcribed spacer⁃1 (ITS1) gene and algal ribulose⁃bisphosphate carboxylase (rbcL) gene in soils were subjected to high⁃throughput sequencing. The occurrence of frames with living snails and density of living snails were compared in marshland with different types of land use. The associations of soil microorganisms and physicochemical properties with the density of living snails were examined using Pearson correlation analysis, and the contributions of soil microorganisms and physicochemical properties to the density of living snails were evaluated using variance partitioning analysis. Results　In marshlands with four types of land use, the greatest occurrence of frames with living snails ［(4.94 ± 2.14)%］ and density of living snails ［(0.070 ± 0.026) snails/0.1 m2］ were seen in ditches, and the lowest were found in ［(1.23 ± 1.23)%］ agricultural cultivation lands ［(0.016 ± 0.019) snails/0.1 m2］. A total of 2 phyla, 5 classes, 8 orders, 9 families and 11 genera of algae were detected in soils at four types of land use, with Chlorophyta as the dominant phylum and Pseudoneochloris as the dominant genus. A total of 44 phyla, 134 classes, 281 orders, 338 families and 516 genera of bacteria were detected in soils at four types of land use, with Proteobacteria and Acidobacteriota as the dominant phyla and uncultured Acidobacterium, MND1, Mitrospira, Haliangium and Sphingomonas as dominant genera. A total of 11 phyla, 41 classes, 108 orders, 223 families and 408 genera of fungi were detected in soils at four types of land use, with phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota and Mortierellomycota presenting high relative abundances and genera Cladorrhinum, Mortierella and Humicola presenting high relative abundances. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the density of living snails correlated negatively with the relative abundance of Proteobacteria (r = −0.965, P < 0.05) and soil electronic conductivity (r = −0.962, P < 0.05) and positively with soil moisture (r = 0.951, P < 0.05). Variance partitioning analysis demonstrated that the physicochemical properties and microorganisms of soil contributed 69% and 10% to the density of living snails, respectively. Conclusion　The diversity of microbial communities varies in soils at different types of land use in marshland along the Yangtze River basin, and the physicochemical properties and microorganisms of soils may affect the distribution of O. hupensis snails.

Investigation of tick⁃borne Rickettsia in selected areas of Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province in 2023

LI Danni, LI Ya, YU Yonghui, OUYANG Xuan, XIONG Xiaolu, JIN Shan, JIAO Jun

2024, 36(2):  154-158. 

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Objective　To investigate the prevalence of tick⁃borne rickettsial infections in selected areas of Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province, 2023, so as to provide insights into the management of tick⁃borne rickettsioses in the city. Methods　Ticks were captured from the body surface of bovines and sheep in Gaoxing Village, Dashan Township, Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province during the period between April and June, 2023, and tick species were identified using morphological and molecular biological techniques. In addition, tick⁃borne Rickettsia was identified using a nested PCR assay, including spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR), Coxiella spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., and Orientia spp., and positive amplified fragments were sequenced and aligned with known sequences accessed in the GenBank database. Results　A total of 200 ticks were collected and all tick species were identified as Rhipicephalus microplus. Nestle PCR assay combined with sequencing identified ticks carrying Candidatus Rickettsia jingxinensis (40.50%), Coxiella burnetii (1.50%), and Coxiella⁃like endosymbionts (27.00%), and Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. or Orientsia spp. was not detected. Conclusions　R. microplus carried Candidatus R. jingxinensis, C. burnetii, and Coxiella⁃like endosymbionts in selected areas of Liupanshui City, Guizhou Province. Intensified monitoring of tick⁃borne rickettsial infections is needed in livestock and humans to reduce the damages caused by rickettsioses.

Trends in Oncomelania hupensis distribution in Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 based on the Joinpoint regression model

XIONG Yuelin, WANG Hao, LI Yang, ZHANG Jiajing, WANG Shuai, LIU Cong, LUO Huatang

2024, 36(2):  159-164. 

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Objective　To analyze the trends in Oncomelania hupensis distribution in Wuhan City, Hubei Province from 2003 to 2022, so as to provide insights into precision schistosomiasis control. Methods　Data pertaining to O. hupensis snail survey in Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 were collected. The trends in the proportion of areas with snail habitats, actual area with snail habitats, mean density of live snails and prevalence of Schistosoma japonicum infection in snails were evaluated in schistosomiasis⁃endemic areas of Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 with the slope of trend curve (β), annual percent change (APC) and average annual percent change (AAPC) using a Joinpoint regression model. Results　During the period from 2003 through 2022, there were two turning points for the proportion of areas with snail habitats in Wuhan City in 2005 and 2015, with a rise during the period from 2003 to 2005 (β1 = 5.93, t = 1.280, P > 0.05), a decline from 2005 to 2015 (β2 = -0.88, t = -2.074, P > 0.05) and a rise from 2015 to 2022 (β3 = 1.46, t = -2.356, P < 0.05). During the period from 2003 through 2022, there were two turning points for the proportion of areas with snail habitats in islet endemic areas of Wuhan City in 2006 and 2015, with no significant differences in the trends from 2003 to 2006 (β1 = 4.64, t = 1.888, P > 0.05) or from 2006 to 2015 (β2 = -1.45, t = -2.143, P > 0.05), and with a tendency towards a rise from 2015 to 2022 (β3 = 2.04, t = -3.100, P < 0.05). During the period from 2003 through 2022, there were two turning points for the proportion of areas with snail habitats in inner embankment endemic areas of Wuhan City in 2012 and 2020, with a tendency towards a decline from 2003 to 2012 (β1 = -0.39, t = -4.608, P < 0.05) and with no significant differences in the trends from 2012 to 2020 (β2 = 0.03, t = 0.245, P > 0.05) and from 2020 to 2022 (β3 = 1.38, t = 1.479, P > 0.05). During the period from 2003 to 2022, the actual area with snail habitats all appeared a tendency towards a decline in Wuhan City, and in islet and inner embankment endemic areas of Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 (AAPC = -2.39%, -5.75% and -2.35%, all P values < 0.05). The mean density of living snails reduced from 0.087 snails/0.1 m2 in 2003 to 0.027 snails/0.1 m2 in 2022 in Wuhan City, with a significant difference in the tendency towards the decline (APC = AAPC = -11.47%, P < 0.05). The annual mean decline rate of the mean density of living snails was 17.36% in outside embankment endemic areas of Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 (APC = AAPC = -17.36%, P < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in the trends in the mean density of living snails in islet endemic areas of Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 (APC = AAPC = -0.97%, P > 0.05). In addition, the prevalence of S. japonicum infection in snails appeared a tendency towards a decline in Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022 (APC = AAPC = -12.45%, P < 0.05). Conclusions　The proportion of areas with snail habitats, actual area with snail habitats, mean density of live snails and prevalence of S. japonicum infection in snails all appeared a tendency towards a decline in Wuhan City from 2003 to 2022. Intensified snail control, modification of snail habitats, shrinking of areas with snails and implementation of grazing prohibition in snail⁃infested settings are required, in order to facilitate the progress towards schistosomiasis elimination in Wuhan City.

Trends in the distribution of Oncomelania hupensis in forestlands in Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality from 2009 to 2023

MAO Qi, SUN Caiying, LI Anqi, LU Weiwei, LÜ Xihong, LU Xuehui, JIN Yanjun, YU Qing

2024, 36(2):  165-168. 

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Objective　To investigate the changes in distribution of Oncomelania hupensis snails in forestlands in Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality from 2009 to 2023, so as to provide insights into formulation of O. hupensis snail surveillance programs. Methods　The reports on O. hupensis snail surveillance in Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality from 2009 to 2023 were collected, and the snail surveillance data in forestlands were extracted. The trends in the proportion of areas with snails in forestlands in total areas with snails, occurrence of frames with living snails and density of living snails were evaluated using a Joinpoint regression model in Songjiang District from 2009 to 2023, and the annual percent change (APC) and average annual percent change (AAPC). Results　A total of 40 sites with snails were found in forestlands in 14 administrative villages of 4 townships, Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality from 2009 to 2023. A total of 39 065 frames were surveyed for snails in settings covering an area of 609 600 m2, and there were 6 084 frames with snails, covering 151 250 m2 snail habitats. A total of 22 210 snails were captured, with the highest density of 260.00 snails/0.1 m2, and 6 262 snails were dissected, with no Schistosoma japonicum infection identified in snails. The proportion of areas with snails in forestlands in total areas with snails appeared a tendency towards a rise in forestlands in Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality from 2009 to 2023 (APC = AAPC = 24.9%, P > 0.05); however, there were no turning points in the trend curve, with the highest proportion seen in 2009 (53.81%), the lowest in 2011 and 2023 (both 0) and a mean proportion of 24.81%. The occurrence of frames with living snails appeared a tendency towards a rise from 2009 to 2023 (APC = AAPC = 41.5%, P > 0.05); however, there were no turning points in the trend curve, with the highest occurrence in 2009 (53.81%), the lowest in 2011 and 2013 (both 0), and the mean occurrence of 15.57%. In addition, the density of living snails appeared a tendency towards a rise from 2009 to 2023 (APC = AAPC = 55.0%, P > 0.05); however, there were no turning points in the trend curve, with the highest density in 2023 (0.96 snails/0.1 m2), the lowest in 2011 and 2013 (both 0), and a mean density of 0.57 snails/0.1 m2. Conclusions　The difficulty in O. hupensis snail control and risk of imported snails appeared a tendency towards a rise in forestlands in Songjiang District, Shanghai Municipality over years from 2009 to 2023. Supervision and assessment prior to seedling transplantation and intensified surveillance post⁃transplantation are recommended to reduce the risk of O. hupensis snail importation and spread.

Prevalence of Echinococcus infections in small rodents in Yushu City, Qinghai Province in 2023

HE Gengcheng, WU Shusheng, QIN Xianglan, MA Jilong, YU Tingjun, SONG Chengxi, MO Xiaojin, MA Xiao, BA Jianfeng, ZHENG Guirong, JIANG Bin, TIAN Tian, YANG Shijie, ZHANG Ting, ZHOU Xiaonong

2024, 36(2):  169-173. 

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Objective　To investigate the prevalence of Echinococcus infections in small rodents around human residential areas in Yushu City, Qinghai Province in 2023, so as to provide insights into precision echinococcosis control. Methods　One or two quadrats, each measuring 50 m × 50 m, were randomly assigned in Shanglaxiu Township and Longbao Township, Yushu City, Qinghai Province on June 2023, respectively, and 300 plate⁃type mouse traps, each measuring 12.0 cm × 6.5 cm, were assigned in each quadrat. Small rodents were captured during the period between 10 : 00 and 18 : 00 each day for 4 days. Then, all captured small rodents were identified and dissected, and liver specimens with suspected Echinococcus infections were subjected to pathological examinations. The Echinococcus cytochrome c oxidase 1 (cox1) gene was amplified using PCR assay, and the sequence of the amplified product was aligned to that was recorded in the GenBank to characterize the parasite species. In addition, a phylogenetic tree of Echinococcus was generated based on the cox1 gene sequence using the neighbor⁃joining method. Results　A total of 236 small rodents were captured in Shanglaxiu and Longbao townships, Yushu City, including 65 Qinghai voles and 51 plateau pikas in Shanglaxiu Township, and 62 Qinghai voles and 58 plateau pikas in Longbao Township, and there was no significant difference in the constituent ratio of small rodents between the two townships ([χ2] = 0.294, P > 0.05). Seven plateau pikas and 12 Qinghai voles were suspected to be infected with Echinococcus by dissection, and pathological examinations showed unclear structure of hepatic lobules and disordered hepatocyte arrangement in livers of small rodents suspected of Echinococcus infections. PCR assay identified E. shiquicus DNA in 7 Qinghai voles, which were all captured from Shanglaxiu Township. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the cox1 gene sequence of Echinococcus in small rodents was highly homologous to the E. shiquicus cox1 gene sequence reported previously. Conclusions　Plateau pika and Qinghai vole were predominant small rodents around human residential areas in Yushu City, Qinghai Province in 2023, and E. shiquicus infection was detected in Qinghai voles.

Bacterial community diversity in human Demodex mites 

HAN Renren, ZHANG Dacun, WANG Lan, TANG Feifan, CAO Jiacheng, WANG Jingxuan, ZHAN Xiaodong, GU Shengli

2024, 36(2):  174-178. 

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Objective　To investigate the bacterial community diversity in human Demodex mites, so as to provide insights into unraveling the role of human Demodex mites in them caused infectious diseases. Methods　From June to July 2023, Demodex mites were collected from the faces of college students in a university in Wuhu City using the adhesive tape method, and the V4 region of 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene of nuclear ribosomal DNA were amplified on an Illumina PE250 high⁃throughput sequencing platform. Sequencing data were spliced according to the overlapping relations and filtered to yield effective sequences, and operational taxonomic units (OTUs) clustering was. The diversity index of obtained OUTs was analyzed, and the structure of the bacterial community was analyzed at various taxonomic levels. Results　A total of 57 483 valid sequences were obtained using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and 159 OUTs were classified according to similarity. Then, OUTs at a 97% similarity were included for taxonomic analyses, and the bacteria in Demodex mites belonged to 14 phyla, 20 classes, 51 orders, 72 families, and 94 genera. Proteobacteria was the dominant phylum, and Vibrio, Bradyrhizobium and Variovorax were dominant genera. A total of 56 362 valid sequences were obtained using ITS gene sequencing, and 147 OTUs were obtained, which belonged to 5 phyla, 17 classes, 34 orders, 68 families, and 93 genera and were annotated to Ascomycota, Basidiomycota and Chytridiomycota, with Ascomycota as the dominant phylum, and Alternaria alternata, Epicoccum, Penicillium, and Sarocladium as dominant genera. Conclusions　There is a high diversity in the composition of bacterial communities in human Demodex mites, with multiple types of microorganisms and high species abundance.

Analysis of active components of Acorus tatarinowii extracts and its activity against dust mites

WANG Huiyong, WANG Meiqing, TANG Feifan, WANG Lan, HAN Renren, JIANG Feng, ZHAN Xiaodong

2024, 36(2):  179-183. 

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Objective　To investigate the activity of Acorus tatarinowii extracts against dust mites, and to isolate and characterize active ingredient of A. tatarinowii extracts. Methods　The essential oil components were extracted from A. tatarinowii rhizome powder by rotary evaporation with methanol as solvents, followed by petroleum ether extraction and rotary evaporation. The essential oil was mixed with Tween⁃80 at a ratio of 1∶1 and diluted into concentrations of 1.000 00%, 0.500 00%, 0.250 00%, 0.125 00%, 0.062 50% and 0.031 25%, while diluted Tween⁃80 served as controls. A. tatarinowii essential oil at each concentration (200 μL) was transferred evenly to filter papers containing 100 adult mites, with each test repeated in triplicate, and controls were assigned for each concentration. Following treatment at 25 ℃ and 75% relative humidity for 24 h, the mean corrected mortality of mites was calculated. The essential oil components were separated by silica gel column chromatography, and the essential oil was prepared in the positive column of medium pressure; and then, each component was collected. Silica gel column chromatography was run with the mobile phase that consisted of petroleum ether solution containing 10% ethyl acetate and pure ethyl acetate, detection wavelength of 254 nm, positive silica gel column as the chromatography column, and room temperature as the column temperature. Each component of the purified A. tatarinowii essential oil was diluted into 1.000 00% for acaricidal tests. The components with less than 100% acaricidal activity were discarded, and the remaining components were diluted into 50% of the previous⁃round tests for subsequent acaricidal tests. The components with acaricidal activity were subjected to high⁃performance liquid chromatography, liquid chromatography⁃mass spectrometry and pulsed⁃Fourier transform nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The structure of active monomer compounds was determined by standard spectral library retrieval and literature review. Results　A. tatarinowii essential oil at concentrations of 1.000 00%, 0.500 00%, 0.250 00% and 0.125 00% killed all dust mites, and the corrected mortality was all 100%. Exposure to A. tatarinowii extracts at an effective concentration of 0.062 5% for 24 hours resulted in 94.33% mortality of dust mites. Six components (A to F) were separated using gel column chromatography, and components D and E both showed a 100% acaricidal activity against dust mites at a concentration of 0.500 00%. In addition, Component D was identified as isoeugenol methyl ether, and Component E as β⁃asarinol. Conclusion　The extract of A. tatarinowii essential oil has acaricidal activity, and the isoeugenol methyl ether shows a remarkable acaricidal activity against dust mites.

Bibliometric analysis of researches on the Plasmodium falciparum repetitive interspersed families of polypeptides protein from 1993 to 2022

YIN Jingxian, SUN Zhishan, ZHAO Hanqing, ZHOU Xiaonong, Kassegne Kokouvi, CHEN Junhu

2024, 36(2):  184-190. 

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Objective　To perform a bibliometric analysis of researches on the Plasmodium falciparum repetitive interspersed families of polypeptides (RIFIN) protein from 1993 to 2022 and identify the hot topics in the RIFIN protein research, so as to provide insights into future researches on RIFIN protein. Methods　RIFIN protein⁃associated publications were retrieved in the Web of Science Core Collection from 1993 to 2022 and all bibliometric analyses were performed using the software CiteSpace 6.2.4.0. The annual number of RIFIN protein⁃associated publications was analyzed from 1993 to 2022, and country, author and institution collaboration networks were created. Keywords were extracted from RIFIN protein⁃associated publications for plotting keyword co⁃occurrence, clustering, burst and timeline maps to identify the hot topics in the RIFIN protein research. Results　A total of 745 English RIFIN protein⁃associated publications were included in the final bibliometric analysis, and there 18 to 36 publications each year from 1993 to 2022. The top three countries with the highest activity in the RIFIN protein research included the United States, the United Kingdom and France, universities and research institutes were highly active in the RIFIN protein research; however, no authors were identified with a high activity in the RIFIN protein research. There were three keyword clusters in the RIFIN protein⁃associated publications, including repetitive DNA sequence, molecular epidemiology and antigenic variation. Keyword co⁃occurrence, burst and timeline analyses showed that previous RIFIN protein⁃associated publications mainly focused on gene properties and functions, involving keywords of repetitive DNA sequence and evolution, and recent hot topics for the RIFIN protein research shifted to genetic diversity and immune response, involving keywords of genetic diversity, antigenic variation and binding. Conclusions　The annual number of RIFIN protein⁃associated publications was relatively stable from 1993 to 2022. This bibliometric analysis may provide insights into future researches on the RIFIN protein.

Construction of a global health talent training evaluation index system based on bibliometric analysis

TAO Xiaoqing, MA Xuejiao, FEI Siwei, DUAN Lei, LÜ Shan, WU Jiani

2024, 36(2):  191-197. 

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Objective　To identify the current research hotspots of global health training, and construct a global health talent training evaluation index system. Methods　Publications pertaining to global health talent training evaluation were retrieved in China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, and Web of Science Core Collection from 2003 to 2022, and keywords were extracted from eligible publications for co⁃occurrence and cluster analyses using the CiteSpace software. Based on keywords clustering results, a global health talent training evaluation index system was constructed using a context, input, process, and product (CIPP) evaluation model as a theoretical framework. Results　A total of 692 Chinese publications and 1 264 English publications were included. Keyword co⁃occurrence and cluster analyses yielded 10 Chinese and 10 English keyword clusters, and the 10 Chinese keyword clusters included analytic hierarchy process, health diplomacy, personnel structure, cross⁃discipline, educational assessment, global health discipline development, training needs, curriculum program, quality evaluation and logistics support, while the English keyword clusters included evidence⁃based practice, capacity building, global health, quality of life, machine learning, leadership, sub⁃Saharan Africa, health equity, global health security and global health diplomacy. Based on keyword clustering, a global health talent training evaluation index system was constructed with CIPP as the theoretical framework, which contained 4 primary indicators, 15 secondary indicators and 59 tertiary indicators, and the primary indicators included 4 dimensions of context evaluation, input evaluation, process evaluation and product evaluation. Conclusions　A global health talent training evaluation index system has been constructed, which provides an effective evaluation tool and quantitative evidence for future global health talent training.

Effect of ground cage use on Oncomelania hupensis spread

ZHONG Mengting, LU Xianquan, FANG Sihai, JIANG Xuefeng, GU Weiling, XIANG Zelin

2024, 36(2):  198-200. 

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Objective　To examine the effect of ground cage use on Oncomelania hupensis spread, so as to provide insights into precision snail control. Methods　Twenty ground cages that were frequently used to capture rice field eels were purchased, including 11 packaging tape⁃made cages, 7 plastic cages and 2 nylon rope⁃made cages. The eel⁃capturing activity was mimicked, and 20 ground cages were assigned in settings with relatively high (1.00 snail/0.1 m2 and higher) and low snail densities (< 1.00 snail/0.1 m2) in Xindai Township, Pinghu City, Zhejiang Province during the period from 15 : 00 to 8 : 00 of the following day on April 13, 26 and 28. The numbers of snails carried by different types of ground cages were compared in settings with different types of snail densities using the rank⁃sum test. Results　A total of 11 cage⁃times were assigned in settings with a high snail density, and a total of 77 snails were captured, with a mean number of 7 snails in each cage⁃time and 2.15 snails in 0.1 m2 ground cage. The mean numbers of snails carried by packaging tape⁃made and plastic cages were 2.47 snails/0.1 m2 cage and 0.37 snails/0.1 m2 cage, respectively. A total of 24 cage⁃times were assigned in settings with a low snail density, and a total of 8 snails were captured, with a mean number of 0.33 snails in each cage⁃time and 0.09 snails in 0.1 m2 ground cage. The mean numbers of snails carried by packaging tape⁃made cages were 0.12 snails/0.1 m2 cage; however, no snails were carried by plastic or nylon rope⁃made cages. The number of snails carried by ground cages was higher in settings with a high snail density than in settings with a low snail density (Z = -4.019, P < 0.01), and the number of snails carried by packaging tape⁃made cages was higher in settings with a high snail density than in settings with a low snail density (Z = -4.086, P < 0.01). No significant differences were found in the numbers of snails carried by different types of ground cages. Conclusion　The use of ground cage in snail habitats is a contributor to snail spread.

Latest advances in the development of tuberculosis vaccines in global clinical trials: a review

ZHOU Fangbin, ZHANG Yilong, ZHANG Dongmei

2024, 36(2):  201-206,218. 

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Tuberculosis remains one of the biggest infectious killers worldwide. Vaccine is the most satisfactory tool for prevention of TB; however, Bacillus Calmette⁃Guérin (BCG), the widely used vaccine in clinical for the prevention of TB, has limitations in protective effects. Development of novel TB vaccines is therefore of urgent need. Currently, there are 15 novel TB vaccine candidates in clinical trials, including live⁃attenuated vaccines, inactivated vaccines, subunit vaccines and viral⁃vectored vaccines, which open the door for the ultimate target of the End TB Strategy. This review summarizes the latest advances in the development of TB vaccines in global clinical trials, so as to provide insights into TB control.

Histone deacetylase and histone acetyltransferase inhibitors as antischistosomal agents: a review

WANG Yuxin, XU Jing, XIA Chaoming

2024, 36(2):  207-214. 

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chistosomiasis is a neglected zoonotic parasitic disease. Currently, praziquantel is the drug of choice for the treatment of schistosomiasis, and is the only effective chemical for treatment of schistosomiasis japonica. Since its introduction in the 1970s, praziquantel has been used for large⁃scale chemotherapy of schistosomiasis for over 40 years. However, there have been reports pertaining to the resistance to praziquantel in schistosomes. Therefore, development of novel antischistosomal agents as alternatives of praziquantel, is of great need. Histone deacetylases and histone acetyltransferases have been recently reported to play critical roles in the growth, development and reproduction of schistosomes, and are considered as potential drug targets for the treatment of schistosomiasis. This review summarizes the latest advances of histone deacetylase and histone acetyltransferase inhibitors in the research on antischistosomal drugs, so as to provide insights into research and development of novelantischistosomal agents.

Auxiliary diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis with metagenomic next⁃generation sequencing: a case report

LI Weiping, WANG Xinglei, MA Li, DOU Xinman, ZHAO Rui, WANG Yingqiao

2024, 36(2):  215-218. 

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This case report summarize the experience from diagnosis and treatment of a patient with repeated high fever, hepatosplenomegaly and pancytopenia. Following exclusion of bacterial, viral, fungal infections and hematological diseases, metagenomic next⁃generation sequencing of the patient’s peripheral blood revealed Leishmania infantum infection, and rK39 rapid diagnostic test showed positive for anti⁃Leishmania antibody, while microscopic examination of bone marrow smears identified Leishmania amastigotes. Therefore, the case was definitively diagnosed as visceral leishmaniasis, and given anti⁃infective treatment with sodium antimony gluconate and hormone, hepatoprotection, elevation of white blood cell counts and personalized nursing. Then, the case was cured and discharged from hospital. Metagenomic next⁃generation sequencing is of great value in etiological detection of fever patients with unknown causes, which deserves widespread clinical applications.

Plasmodium falciparum malaria with acute abdominal pain as the first symptom: a case report

ZHANG Dongyou, LI Na, ZHOU Wenqi, ZHANG Lei, LIANG Qi, MENG Defeng

2024, 36(2):  219-220. 

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Plasmodium falciparum malaria; Abdominal pain; Misdiagnosis; Case report