Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases最新文献

{"title":"The Need of Handwash Station Resources in Health Education Institutions to Promote Standardized WHO Handwashing Models.","authors":"Hamsu Kadriyan, Yasmin Sabrina Zulkifli, Eka Arie Yuliyani","doi":"10.1155/ipid/2423211","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/2423211","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Hand hygiene is the fundamental basis for infection prevention and control, particularly in health education settings where students are trained as future healthcare professionals. Despite adequate knowledge, suboptimal handwash station infrastructure has a potency to hinder adherence to WHO hand hygiene standards.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional single center study was conducted among 273 preclinical medical students. Validated questionnaires assessed hand hygiene awareness, compliance, and handwash station usage, supported by structured facility observations. Spearman's rank correlation test was applied for bivariate analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Most respondents demonstrated high awareness of hand hygiene (96.7%) and high compliance (85.0%). No significant association was observed between awareness and handwash station usage (<i>p</i> = 0.410). However, handwash station usage was significantly associated with hand hygiene compliance (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Observations showed that the primary handwashing infrastructure is sufficient, but ancillary facilities remain suboptimal.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>High awareness alone is insufficient to ensure compliance with WHO-standardized hand hygiene practices. Adequate, standardized, and accessible handwash station resources play a critical role in translating knowledge into consistent hygienic behavior.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"2423211"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-07-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13421920/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148632236","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Prevalence and Risk Factors for Oropharyngeal, Esophageal, and Oral Candidiasis in HIV-Positive Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.","authors":"Xue Ting Tan, Siti Hamidah Binti Abdul Rahman, Lee Lee Low, Nur Hasnah Binti Ma Amor","doi":"10.1155/ipid/6445594","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/6445594","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Oral, oropharyngeal, and esophageal candidiasis are common forms of mucosal candidiasis (MC) in people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (PLWHA). Despite differences in infection sites, oral, oropharyngeal, and esophageal candidiasis share common pathophysiological mechanisms, including etiologic agents, host susceptibility, and antibiotic use. Identifying prevalence and risk factors associated with these types of candidiasis in this population enables clinicians to manage these infections across the affected mucosal sites effectively.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To synthesize the global prevalence and identify the risk factors for oral, oropharyngeal, and esophageal candidiasis in PLWHA.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane and extracted the prevalence data and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for each risk factor associated with MC. We calculated pooled ORs for risk factors present in a minimum of two studies.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Fifteen studies were included. The overall prevalence of MC in PLWHA was 39.0% (95% CI: 27%-52%; <i>I</i> ²  = 99.74%, <i>p</i> = 0.001). However, male gender (pooled OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.12-2.09, <i>p</i> = 0.007), CD4 cell count below 200 cells/µL (pooled OR 2.41; 95% CI 1.36-4.29; <i>p</i> = 0.003), and lack of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) treatment (pooled OR 1.76; 95% CI 1.16-2.66; <i>p</i> = 0.008) are significant risk factors for MC development in the PLWHA.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The global overall prevalence of MC in PLHWA was 39%. Risk factors, including male gender, CD4 count, and HAART, are shown to have significant effects on the development of MC in PLWHA. The results highlighted the significance of promptly recognizing and addressing these risk factors to reduce the incidence of MC in PLWHA.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6445594"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-07-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13417023/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148621853","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Meropenem Use and Challenges in Treating Severe Infections in Pakistan Amid Antimicrobial Resistance.","authors":"Nasim Akhtar, Ejaz Ahmed Khan, Summiya Nizamuddin, Sana Anwar, S H Waqar, Sarwat Faisal, Sarmad Iqbal","doi":"10.1155/ipid/5531329","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/5531329","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Meropenem is a broad-spectrum carbapenem antibiotic essential for treating serious infections including urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. This narrative review examines meropenem resistance trends and prescribing practices for severe infections in Pakistan highlighting how inappropriate use drives local antimicrobial resistance. Relevant literature was identified through a structured search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using predefined keywords. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis that complicates treatment of infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens, including <i>Acinetobacter baumannii</i>, <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i>, and <i>E. coli</i>. Pharmacokinetic studies of meropenem show extensive tissue penetration, time-dependent bactericidal activity, and rapid renal clearance, which contribute to its effectiveness. In critically ill patients, specialized dosing strategies like continuous or extended infusions are recommended to maintain adequate drug levels. Emerging evidence also supports combination therapies (e.g., pairing meropenem with fosfomycin) to improve outcomes against carbapenem-resistant strains. In Pakistan, these concerns are especially acute: many key pathogens show high resistance rates due to widespread antibiotic overuse and misuse. Regional surveillance indicates that <i>E. coli</i> often remains relatively sensitive to meropenem, whereas Acinetobacter species exhibit alarmingly low susceptibility. Such resistance largely stems from the spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemase-producing organisms, posing serious challenges to clinicians. This underscores the need for data-driven, context-specific strategies to guide therapy. Robust surveillance systems are needed to guide empirical therapy, and real-time resistance monitoring can help prevent treatment failures. The review emphasizes targeted antimicrobial strategies and judicious meropenem use. Ongoing education for healthcare providers and coordinated stewardship programs at local and national levels are also essential to preserve the antibiotic's clinical utility. Ultimately, sustaining meropenem's effectiveness in the face of rising AMR requires combined public health efforts, including tailored dosing protocols and localized resistance management, to keep meropenem a reliable option worldwide for treating life-threatening infections.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"5531329"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-07-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13382356/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148608493","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Pathogenic Significance of Trypanosomatids: Progress in Drug Resistance, Control Strategies, and Artificial Intelligence.","authors":"Cynthia Mmalebna Amisigo, Aboagye Kwarteng Dofuor, Jennifer Afua Afrifa Yamoah, Albert Fynn Aiduenu, Blessing Kwabena Gayi, Angelina Akomea, Zenabu Lansah Alidu, Gideon Danso, Selina Mawunyo Ayivi-Tosuh, Naa Kwarley-Aba Quartey, Joseph Harold Nyarko Osei, Seyram Kofi Loh, William Ekloh","doi":"10.1155/ipid/7565247","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/7565247","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Trypanosomatids, including the genera <i>Trypanosoma</i> and <i>Leishmania</i>, are protozoan parasites of significant medical and veterinary relevance. These organisms cause African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis, which are classified as neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). NTDs continue to present major public health challenges, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia, resulting in substantial morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic impacts. Chemotherapeutic interventions remain constrained by toxicity, high cost, limited accessibility, and the increasing prevalence of drug resistance. Significantly, there is a tight relationship between pathogenesis and drug resistance because processes that facilitate intracellular persistence, immunological evasion, and metabolic adaptation can also decrease drug sensitivity and increase treatment failure. This interaction makes it easier for more pathogenic and resilient strains to arise, which makes disease treatment and control more difficult. The absence of effective vaccines underscores the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. Advances in molecular parasitology have elucidated unique organellar structures, immune evasion mechanisms, and metabolic pathways in trypanosomatids, providing new therapeutic targets. Additionally, artificial intelligence and computational methodologies are facilitating drug discovery, predicting resistance, and improving diagnostics. In this review, we provide a narrative overview of current knowledge of trypanosomatid biology, prevalence, drug resistance mechanisms, and emerging control strategies. By integrating classical parasitology with computational approaches, new opportunities are identified to address resistance, enhance therapy, and mitigate the global health burden of trypanosomatid infections.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"7565247"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-06-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13310394/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148346769","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Preparing the Frontline: Profiling Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice Gaps in Healthcare-Associated Infection Prevention Among Future Health Professionals in Belize.","authors":"Danladi C Husaini, Sanjana Punjabi, Tatyana Guild, Elodia Solis, Yusuf Abubakar","doi":"10.1155/ipid/3745039","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/3745039","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a significant threat to patient safety in Belize, with prevalence rates far exceeding global averages. Allied health students represent the future frontline in infection prevention, yet their preparedness in high-burden, resource-limited settings like Belize-where HAI prevalence approaches 40%-remains unassessed. This study aimed to conduct the first multidimensional analysis of the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) regarding HAIs among allied health students at the University of Belize (UB).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 randomly selected nursing, pharmacy, and medical laboratory science students, yielding an 85% response rate. Data were collected via a structured, self-administered electronic questionnaire. Analysis included descriptive statistics, inferential tests (chi-square, <i>t</i>-tests, and ANOVA), multivariable regression, and latent class analysis to identify distinct student profiles.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The mean knowledge score was 3.84 out of 7 (54.9%), indicating moderate overall understanding. While students demonstrated strength in general transmission routes (81.9% correct) and basic prevention, critical deficits were identified. Only 24.3% recognized mechanical ventilation as a risk factor for ventilator-associated pneumonia (a common HAI), and just 56.7% correctly identified common bacterial agents. A significant knowledge-practice gap was observed; while knowledge did not differ by academic program, practice scores varied significantly (<i>p</i> < 0.001). In-service training was strongly associated with better practice scores (<i>p</i> < 0.001) but not with knowledge. Latent class analysis revealed three distinct profiles: \"High Performers\" (60.2%), \"Motivated Learners\" (36.1%) with good practice but lower knowledge, and a \"Disengaged\" group (3.7%) with poor scores across all domains.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>UB allied health students possess foundational HAI knowledge but appear critically underprepared in key clinical areas, with a clear disconnect between theory and practice. This evidence suggests an urgent need to consider a shift from uniform curricula to tailored, competency-based education integrating robust theory with mandatory simulation and clinical practice. Such a reform could contribute to mitigating Belize's high HAI burden.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"3745039"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-06-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13287823/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148319628","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Epidemiological Profile of Uropathogenic Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae.","authors":"Soufyane Yassara, Samira Jaouhar, Khadija Benyahia, Mohammed Sbiti, Khadija Bekhti","doi":"10.1155/ipid/4689685","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/4689685","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The global spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) represents a major challenge for the management of urinary tract infections (UTIs), limiting therapeutic options and increasing the risk of treatment failure. This study aimed to characterize the epidemiological profile and antimicrobial resistance patterns of ESBL-producing uropathogenic <i>Enterobacteriaceae</i> in a Moroccan hospital setting.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A retrospective descriptive study was conducted in the bacteriology department of the Moulay Ismail Military Hospital in Meknes, Morocco, over a 2-year period (2021-2023). Data were extracted from archived urine cytobacteriological examinations. Bacterial identification was performed using chromogenic media and biochemical methods, while antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out using the disk diffusion method according to CA-SFM guidelines. ESBL production was detected using the double-disk synergy test.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Among 9867 urine samples analyzed, 1676 cases of UTIs were identified, corresponding to a prevalence of 17%. Enterobacteriaceae accounted for 56.8% of isolates, among which ESBL-producing strains represented the majority of multidrug-resistant bacteria. <i>Escherichia coli</i> was the predominant species (69.9%), followed by <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> (17.6%) and <i>Klebsiella oxytoca</i> (11%). High resistance rates were observed to third-generation cephalosporins (up to 96% for ceftriaxone) and fluoroquinolones (93% for ciprofloxacin). In contrast, carbapenems, amikacin, and fosfomycin retained good activity, with resistance rates below 10%.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study highlights the increasing burden of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae in UTIs and the alarming levels of resistance to commonly used antibiotics. These findings underscore the need for continuous surveillance, rational antibiotic use, and strengthened antimicrobial stewardship programs to limit the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria and preserve the effectiveness of available treatments.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"4689685"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13216660/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148139301","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Correction to \"Comprehensive Review on Viral RNA Extraction Strategies for Enhanced Molecular Diagnostics\".","authors":"","doi":"10.1155/ipid/9807879","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/ipid/9807879","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/ipid/5579320.].</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"9807879"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-04-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13096682/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147784249","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Feasibility of Implementing Interprofessional Collaboration-Based Telecare Services for Patients With Tuberculosis: A Mixed Methods Study From Hospital Insight.","authors":"Devi Ristian Octavia, Andi Hermansyah, Yunita Nita, Fadli Asmani, Ibrahim Abdullah","doi":"10.1155/ipid/2070413","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/2070413","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health challenge and is a leading cause of mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Indonesia continues to record one of the world's highest TB burdens. Persistent gaps in treatment adherence and continuity of care remain, despite various national initiatives. Achieving the national TB elimination target requires innovative, patient-centered approaches. These must be supported by interprofessional collaboration (IPC) and digital health interventions. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of implementing telecare-based IPC services to optimize TB management in hospital settings.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;A mixed-methods exploratory sequential design was employed, comprising a quantitative cross-sectional survey followed by qualitative focus group discussions (FGDs). The study was conducted at Husada Prima Hospital, Surabaya, a regional TB referral center in Indonesia. In the quantitative phase, 77 healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, and nurses, completed the validated Indonesian version of the collaborative practice assessment tool (CPAT). Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney &lt;i&gt;U&lt;/i&gt; tests to examine differences in IPC perceptions across professional groups. The qualitative phase involved FGDs with 12 participants representing doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and hospital management. Discussions were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically to identify opportunities, barriers, and implementation strategies for telecare-based IPC. Rigor was maintained through data triangulation, participant validation, and information saturation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Result: &lt;/strong&gt;Quantitative analysis identified significant interprofessional differences in perceptions of IPC, particularly regarding team barriers (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.003), coordination and division of roles (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.008), decision-making and conflict management (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.025), and mission, goals, and objectives (&lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.034). Qualitative analysis produced four major themes and 13 subthemes, encompassing opportunities, barriers, implementation strategies, and organizational support for telecare-based IPC. While participants expressed optimism about the model's potential, they also highlighted challenges, including unclear task delineation, patient skepticism toward digital communication, and the absence of standard operating procedures. Integration of quantitative and qualitative findings indicated that clear leadership structures, sufficient digital infrastructure, and robust professional collaboration are essential for successful implementation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion: &lt;/strong&gt;Telecare-based interprofessional collaboration is feasible and has the potential to enhance TB care in hospital settings. However, successful adoption depends on adequate infrastructure, well-prepared human resources, and supportive policies. The model is adaptable to diverse healt","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"2070413"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-04-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13085901/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147724184","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"British Red Squirrels (<i>S. vulgaris</i>) With Leprosy Develop Skeletal Lesions.","authors":"Elliot Elliott, Richard Thomas, Sarah A Inskip, Andrea Cooper, Andrew C Kitchener, Katie M Beckmann, Anna Meredith","doi":"10.1155/ipid/5785505","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/5785505","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Leprosy, caused by <i>Mycobacterium lepromatosis</i> or <i>Mycobacterium leprae,</i> has been reported in red squirrels in Britain from Scotland to the south of England. However, there has been no attempt to determine whether lesions caused by leprosy can be detected in the skeletons of infected animals. Here, we present findings from three red squirrel skeletons (<i>Sciurus vulgaris</i> L., 1758) that had soft tissue lesions consistent with leprosy and were positive for <i>M. lepromatosis</i>. Three of six red squirrel specimens from Scotland that previously tested positive for <i>M. lepromatosis</i> were subjected to macro- and microscopic skeletal analyses. Erosive lesions, remodelling and porosity were found in multiple parts of the skeleton, including the podials, tarsals, distal tibiae, distal forelimbs and in the nasal bones. Additionally, porous lesions were found in the caudal vertebrae. These skeletal changes advance our knowledge of how this disease manifests in nonhuman mammals. Overall, these findings demonstrate that, despite the squirrel's significantly shorter lifespan and different metabolism, comparable patterns of skeletal lesions are observed in humans and red squirrels with leprosy.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"5785505"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12976456/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147445373","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Identifying Early Signals From Emerging Public Health Events Using Natural Language Processing.","authors":"Kelly S Peterson, Christian Dalton, Andrea Kalvesmaki, JoAnn Vuong, Colton Gordon, Senthil Nachimuthu, Mary Jo Pugh, Makoto M Jones","doi":"10.1155/ipid/6176855","DOIUrl":"10.1155/ipid/6176855","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Timely detection of emerging public health threats is challenging because the surveillance infrastructure is not yet tuned to the emerging threat. We attempt to identify three nonspecific early signals that might be common across emerging events: public health authority communication, zoonotic exposure mentions, and other pathogen exposure mentions.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Data from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs emergency department visits between 2004 and 2024 were used to construct training and validation sets from reportable or emerging infectious diseases identified by historical diagnoses and laboratories. Not all early signal types were extracted using the same method. Rule-based and transformer models were used in a way to minimize developer and chart reviewer time. We then extracted cases from historic documents among selected diseases.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Positive predictive values for public health authority communication, zoonotic exposure, and other pathogen exposure ranged from 0.615 to 1.0. Target concepts were extracted from over 33 million emergency department visits. Distributions of extracted exposures generally matched expectations for the identified pathogen.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Automated natural language processing methods allow surveillance scaling to large amounts of clinical documents to identify relevant cases. Initial validation compared to manual text review shows that accuracy is acceptable for initial feasibility exploration in biosurveillance efforts.</p>","PeriodicalId":39128,"journal":{"name":"Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6176855"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12964168/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147379120","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}