The Journal of infectious diseases
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Review Meta Analysis
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Seroprevalence of Influenza A(H9N2) Infection Among Humans.
Given that influenza A(H9N2) is recognized as a pandemic threat, we evaluated the overall burden of influenza A(H9N2) infections among avian-exposed human populations. ⋯ A small proportion of avian-exposed humans had evidence of influenza A(H9N2) infection. As the virus has a near global distribution in poultry, it seems likely that present surveillance efforts are missing mild or asymptomatic infections among avian-exposed persons. It seems prudent to closely monitor avian-exposed populations for influenza A(H9N2) infection to provide prepandemic warnings.
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Review Meta Analysis
Effect of corticosteroid therapy on influenza-related mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Most studies have reported that corticosteroid therapy adversely influences influenza-related outcomes. ⋯ No completed clinical trials were identified. Evidence from observational studies, with important limitations, suggests that corticosteroid therapy for presumed influenza-associated complications is associated with increased mortality.
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Meta Analysis
Independent emergence of artemisinin resistance mutations among Plasmodium falciparum in Southeast Asia.
The emergence of artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium falciparum in Southeast Asia threatens malaria treatment efficacy. Mutations in a kelch protein encoded on P. falciparum chromosome 13 (K13) have been associated with resistance in vitro and in field samples from Cambodia. ⋯ K13 appears to be a major determinant of artemisinin resistance throughout Southeast Asia. While we found some evidence of spreading resistance, there was no evidence of resistance moving westward from Cambodia into Myanmar.
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Administration of convalescent plasma, serum, or hyperimmune immunoglobulin may be of clinical benefit for treatment of severe acute respiratory infections (SARIs) of viral etiology. We conducted a systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis to assess the overall evidence. ⋯ Convalescent plasma may reduce mortality and appears safe. This therapy should be studied within the context of a well-designed clinical trial or other formal evaluation, including for treatment of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus CoV infection.