@article{H.2025,

title = {A customizable multiplex protein microarray for antibody testing and its application for tick-borne and other infectious diseases},

author = {Krishnamurthy H., Vasanth ayaraman., ..........Nasrallah G., Rajasekaran John J.,},

doi = {10.1038/s41598-024-84467-0},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-09},

journal = {Scientific Reports },

volume = {15},

issue = {1},

abstract = {Tick-borne infections are the most common vector-borne diseases in the USA. Ticks harbor and transmit several infections with Lyme disease being the most common tickborne infection in the US and Europe. Lack of awareness about tick populations, specific diagnostic tests, and overlapping signs and symptoms of tick-borne infections can often lead to misdiagnosis affecting treatment and the prevalence data reported especially for non-Lyme tick-borne infections. The diagnostic tests currently available for tick-borne diseases are severely limited in their ability to provide accurate results and cannot detect multiple pathogens in a single run. The multiplex protein microarray developed at Vibrant was designed to detect multiple serological antibodies thereby detecting exposure to multiple pathogens simultaneously. Our microarray in its present form can accommodate 400 antigens (molecules that can bind to specific antibodies) and can multiplex across antigen types, whole cell lysates, recombinant proteins, and peptides. A designed array containing multiple antigens of several microbes including Borrelia burgdorferi, the Lyme disease spirochete, was manufactured and evaluated. The immunoglobulin M (IgM) and G (IgG) responses against several tick-borne microbes and other infectious agents were analyzed for analytical and clinical performance. The microarray improved IgM and IgG sensitivities and specificities of individual microbes when compared with the respective gold standards. The testing was also performed in a single run in comparison to multiple runs needed for comparable testing standards. In summary, our study presents a flexible multiplex microarray platform that can provide quick results with high sensitivity and specificity for evaluating exposure to varied infectious agents especially tick-borne pathogens.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2025,

title = {Mindray CL-900i Assay: An Effective assay for HBsAg Screening with Superior Specificity},

author = {Gheyath K. Nasrallah, Salma Younes, Nadin Younes, Parveen B. Nizamuddin, Maryam A. Alabdulmalek, Khadija N. Mohammad, Dayana El Chaar, Manal Elshaikh, Mazen Najib Abouassali, Ibrahim Wissam Karimeh, Mohammed Abdelfatah Ibrahim, Mutaz Mohamed Ali, Ibrahim Al Shaar, Zhu Louyin, Palanee Ammaranond, Laith J. Abu-Raddad, Ahmed Ismail},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.100561},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-09},

journal = {IJID Regions},

volume = {14},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2025b,

title = {Evaluation of the mindray CL900i CLIA HIV Ag/Ab combo assay for sensitive and specific HIV screening compared to established methods},

author = {Gheyath K. Nasrallah, Nadin Younes, Hadiya M. Khalid, Jawaher A. Al-Emadi, Salma Younes, Mazen Najib Abouassali, Manal Abdelmutaal Elshaikh, Ibrahim Wisam Karime, Mohammed Abdelfatah Ibrahim, Mutaz Mohamed Ali, Ibrahim Al Shaar, Na Liu, Houssein Ayoub, Hadi M. Yassine, Laith J. Abu-Raddad & Ahmed Ismail },

doi = {10.1038/s41598-024-78271-z},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-07},

journal = {Scientific Reports},

volume = {14},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Razzaq2025,

title = {Exploring Differentially Methylated Genes amongst Preterm birth and Full-term birth},

author = {Aleem Razzaq, Razan ElKahlout, Gheyath K Nasrallah, Faisal E Ibrahim, Muthanna Samara, Hatem Zayed, Palli Valapila Abdulrouf, Rana Al-Jurf, Ahmed Najjar, Thomas Farrell, M Walid Qoronfleh, Hilal Al Rifai, Nader Al-Dewik},

doi = {10.1159/000543372},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {Lifestyle Genomics},

abstract = {Introduction: Preterm birth (PTB) is associated with newborn morbidity and mortality. DNA methylation plays an important role in the development of fetus, thus can also serve as an epigenetic biomarker. Limited epigenetic studies were conducted in regard to PTB. Thus, this study aims to determine whether there are any epigenetic changes amongst PTB vs. term birth (TB).



Methods: In the current study, a total 218 cord blood samples from three different PTB studies have been carried out to explore differentially methylated sites (DMS) and regions (DMRs) associated with PTB. The differential methylation analysis was done after controlling for multiple covariates like age, gender, and disease status. The DMRs (genes and promoters) and DMS (CpG) were investigated in PTB compared to TB infants.



Results: In PTB infants, genes like RNASE3, HGF, CLEC5A, LIPN, NXF1, and CCDC12 showed hypermethylation (p < 0.05) while the MUC20 and IFNL4 genes showed hypomethylation (p < 0.05) along with other significantly identified genes in this analysis. The eForge analysis of hypermethylated (p < 0.05) CpG sites exhibited enrichment in different fetal tissues like small and large intestine, adrenal gland, fetal heart, lungs, and kidney while hypomethylated CpGs showed no significant enrichment. The GO enrichment analysis of these genes revealed pathways associated with the regulation of immune response. Interestingly, the analysis also observed S100A9 and S100A8 genes, along with their associated CpG sites exhibited hypermethylation (p < 0.05) in PTB infants which plays a crucial role in developing neonatal sepsis.



Conclusion: Overall, this study revealed differential methylation in immune-related genes related to PTB that could be used as potential epigenetics biomarkers. These findings not only enhance our understanding of PTB pathogenesis but also pave the way for developing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Younes2023,

title = {Management of chronic myeloid leukaemia: current treatment options, challenges, and future strategies An updated overview of cyanidins for chemoprevention and cancer therapy},

author = {Salma Younes Mohamed A Ismail Rana Al-Jurf Ayah Ziyada Gheyath K Nasrallah Palli Valapila Abdulrouf Mohamed Nagy Hatem Zayed Thomas Farrell Claudio Sorio Hisham Morsi M Walid Qoronfleh Nader I Al-Dewik,},

doi = {10.1080/16078454.2023.2196866},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-12-06},

urldate = {2023-12-06},

journal = {Hematology},

abstract = {Small molecule therapy is a critical component of targeted anticancer treatment, with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) being the first compounds to treat the clonal Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML) translocation t (9;22) (q34; q11) effectively since 2001. TKIs, such as imatinib, have improved the 10-year survival rate of CML patients to 80%. They bind the BCR::ABL1 kinase and inhibit downstream signaling pathways. However, therapy failure may be seen in 20-25% of CML patients due to intolerance or inadequacy related to BCR::ABL1 dependent or independent mechanisms. This review aimed to summarize current treatment options involving TKIs, resistance mechanisms and the prospective approaches to overcome TKI resistance. We highlight BCR::ABL1-dependent mechanisms of TKI resistance by reviewing clinically-documented BCR::ABL1 mutations and their consequences for TKI binding. In addition, we summarize BCR::ABL1 independent pathways, including the relevance of drug efflux, dysregulation of microRNA, and the involvement of alternative signaling pathways. We also discuss future approaches, such as gene-editing techniques in the context of CML, as potential therapeutic strategies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023c,

title = {Estimating protection afforded by prior infection in preventing reinfection: Applying the test-negative study design},

author = {Houssein H Ayoub Milan Tomy Hiam Chemaitelly Heba N Altarawneh Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Mohammad R Hasan Zaina Al Kanaani Einas Al Kuwari Adeel A Butt Andrew Jeremijenko Mohammad Shaik Gheyath K Nasrallah Fatiha M Benslimane Hebah A Al Khatib Hadi M Yassine Mohamed G Al Kuwari Hamad Eid Al Romaihi Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad,},

doi = {10.1093/aje/kwad239},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-12-01},

urldate = {2023-12-01},

journal = {American Journal of Epidemiology },

abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to use infection testing databases to rapidly estimate effectiveness of prior infection in preventing reinfection (⁠⁠) by novel SARS-CoV-2 variants. Mathematical modeling was used to demonstrate a theoretical foundation for applicability of the test-negative, case-control study design to derive ⁠. Apart from the very early phase of an epidemic, the difference between the test-negative estimate for  and true value of  was minimal and became negligible as the epidemic progressed. The test-negative design provided robust estimation of  and its waning. Assuming that only 25% of prior infections are documented, misclassification of prior infection status underestimated ⁠, but the underestimate was considerable only when >50% of the population was ever infected. Misclassification of latent infection, misclassification of current active infection, and scale-up of vaccination all resulted in negligible bias in estimated ⁠. The test-negative design was applied to national-level testing data in Qatar to estimate  for SARS-CoV-2.  against SARS-CoV-2 Alpha and Beta variants was estimated at 97.0% (95% CI: 93.6-98.6) and 85.5% (95% CI: 82.4-88.1), respectively. These estimates were validated using a cohort study design. The test-negative design offers a feasible, robust method to estimate protection from prior infection in preventing reinfection},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2023g,

title = {Follow up and comparative assessment of IgG, IgA, and neutralizing antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 between mRNA-vaccinated naïve and unvaccinated naturally infected individuals over 10 Months},

author = {Salma Younes Eleonora Nicolai Duaa W Al-Sadeq Nadin Younes Nader Al-Dewik Haissam Abou-Saleh Bushra Y Abo-Halawa Ali Hussein Eid Massimo Pieri Na Liu Hanin I Daas Hadi M Yassine Parveen B Nizamuddin Laith J Abu-Raddad Gheyath K Nasrallah,},

doi = {10.1016/j.jiph.2023.08.009},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-11-16},

urldate = {2023-11-16},

journal = {Journal of Infection and Public Health},

abstract = {Background: Evidence on the effectiveness of vaccination-induced immunity compared to SARS-CoV-2 natural immunity is warranted to inform vaccination recommendations.



Aim: In this study, we aimed to conduct a comparative assessment of antibody responses between vaccinated naïve (VN) and unvaccinated naturally infected individuals (NI) over 10 Months.



Method: The study comprised fully-vaccinated naïve individuals (VN; n = 596) who had no history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and received two doses of either BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273, and naturally infected individuals who had a documented history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and no vaccination record (NI cohort; n = 218). We measured the levels of neutralizing total antibodies (NtAbs), anti-S-RBD IgG, and anti-S1 IgA titers among VN and NI up to ∼10 months from administration of the first dose, and up to ∼7 months from SARS-CoV-2 infection, respectively. To explore the relationship between the antibody responses and time, Spearman's correlation coefficient was computed. Furthermore, correlations between the levels of NtAbs/anti-S-RBD IgG and NtAbs/anti-S1 IgA were examined through pairwise correlation analysis.



Results: Up to six months, VN individuals had a significantly higher NtAb and anti-S-RBD IgG antibody responses compared to NI individuals. At the 7th month, there was a significant decline in antibody responses among VN individuals, but not NI individuals, with a minimum decrease of 3.7-fold (p < 0.001). Among VN individuals, anti-S1 IgA levels began to decrease significantly (1.4-fold; p = 0.007) after two months, and both NtAb and S-RBD IgG levels began to decline significantly (NtAb: 2.0-fold; p = 0.042, S-RBD IgG: 2.4-fold; p = 0.035) after three months. After 10 months, the most significant decline among VN individuals was observed for S-RBD-IgG (30.0-fold; P < 0.001), followed by NtAb (15.7-fold; P < 0.001) and S-IgA (3.7-fold; P < 0.001) (most stable). Moreover, after 5 months, there was no significant difference in the IgA response between the two groups.



Conclusion: These findings have important implications for policymakers in the development of vaccination strategies, particularly in the consideration of booster doses to sustain long-lasting protection against COVID-19.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2023d,

title = {SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and effects of age, sex, comorbidity, and vaccination among older individuals: A national cohort study},

author = {Mai A Mahmoud Houssein H Ayoub Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Mohammad R Hasan Hadi M Yassine Asmaa A Al Thani Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Nizar Latif Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad Hiam Chemaitelly,},

doi = {doi: 10.1111/irv.13224},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-11-13},

urldate = {2023-11-13},

journal = {Influenza Other Respir Viruses/ Wiley },

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2023d,

title = {Sesamol: A lignan in sesame seeds with potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties},

author = {Amin F Majdalawieh Sogand H Ahari Sarah M Yousef Gheyath K Nasrallah,},

doi = {10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176163},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-11-03},

urldate = {2023-11-03},

journal = {European Journal of Pharmacology},

abstract = {Inflammation is associated with the development and progression of a plethora of diseases including joint, metabolic, neurological, hepatic, and renal disorders. Sesamol, derived from the seeds of Sesamum indicum L., has received considerable attention due to its well-documented multipotent phytotherapeutic effects, including its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. However, to date, no comprehensive review has been established to highlight or summarize the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of sesamol. Herein, we aim to address this gap in the literature by presenting a thorough review encapsulating evidence surrounding the range of inflammatory mediators and cytokines shown to be targeted by sesamol in modulating its anti-inflammatory actions against a range of inflammatory disorders. Additionally, evidence highlighting the role that sesamol has in modulating components of adaptive immunity including cellular immune responses and Th1/Th2 balance is underscored. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms and the signaling pathways underlying such effects are also highlighted. Findings indicate that this seemingly potent lignan mediates its anti-inflammatory actions, at least in part, via suppression of various pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and TNFα, and downregulation of a multitude of signaling pathways including NF-κB and MAPK. In conclusion, we anticipate that sesamol may be employed in future therapeutic regimens to aid in more effective drug development to alleviate immune-related and inflammatory conditions.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2023e,

title = {Seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) among male craft and manual workers in Qatar (2020–2021)},

author = {Nadin Younes Hadi M. Yassine Parveen Banu Nizamuddin Katerina Kourentzi Patrick Tang Houssein H. Ayoub Makiyeh Khalili Peter V. Coyle Dmitri Litvinov Richard C. Willson Laith J. Abu-Raddad Gheyath K. Nasrallah,},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-11-01},

urldate = {2023-11-01},

journal = {Heliyon},

abstract = {Background



The rapid growth of Qatar in the last two decades has attracted a large influx of immigrant craft and manual workers (CMWs) seeking employment in jobs associated with food handling, domestic service, and construction. Nearly 60 % of Qatar's population are expatriates CMWs, including many from hyperendemic countries for HEV. Thus, estimating the seroprevalence of HEV in Qatar and understanding its epidemiology is essential for public health efforts to control HEV transmission in Qatar.

Methods



Blood samples from 2670 CMWs were collected between 2020 and 2021. All samples were tested for HEV-IgG antibodies. Positive HEV-IgG samples were tested for HEV-IgM antibodies, and those positives were also tested for viral antigens using an HEV-Ag ELISA kit and HEV-RNA by RT-PCR to confirm current HEV infections.

Results



The seroprevalence of HEV-IgG was 27.3 % (729/2670; 95 % CI: 25.6–29.0). Of those HEV-IgG positive, 8.23 % (60/729; 95 % CI: 6.30–10.5) were HEV-IgM positive. Of the IgM-positive samples, 2 were HEV-RNA positive (3.39 %; 95 % CI: 0.40–11.7), and 1 was HEV-Ag positive (1.69 %; 95 % CI: 0.04–9.09). In addition, HEV-IgG seroprevalence was associated with age and nationality, with the highest seroprevalence in participants from Egypt (IgG 60.0 %; IgM 5.56 %), Pakistan (IgG 59.0 %; IgM 2.24 %), Nepal (IgG 29.3 %; IgM 2.70 %), Bangladesh (IgG 27.8 %; IgM 2.45 %), and India (IgG 23.9 %; IgM 2.43 %).

Conclusion



In this study, we showed that the seroprevalence of HEV among CMWs was slightly higher than what was previously reported among the urban population in Qatar (2013–2016).},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023d,

title = {Turning point in COVID-19 severity and fatality during the pandemic: a national cohort study in Qatar},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Jeremy Samuel Faust Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Mohammad R Hasan Hadi M Yassine Hebah A Al-Khatib Asmaa A Al Thani Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Latif Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Adeel Ajwad Butt Hamad Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad,},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjph-2023-000479},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-10-29},

urldate = {2023-10-29},

journal = {BMJ Public Health},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023e,

title = {History of primary-series and booster vaccination and protection against Omicron reinfection},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Patrick Tang Peter V Coyle Hadi M Yassine Asmaa A Al Thani Hebah A Al-Khatib Mohammad R Hasan Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Nizar Latif Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad,},

doi = {10.1126/sciadv.adh0761},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-10-06},

urldate = {2023-10-06},

journal = {Science Advances},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2023f,

title = {High-sensitive detection and quantitation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from capillary/fingerstick and venepuncture whole-blood using fluorescence-based rapid lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA)},

author = {Samar Shurbaji Faleh Al Tamimi Mahmoud M Al Ghwairi Dayana El Chaar Salma Younes Amin F Majdalawieh GianFranco Pintus Nader Al-Dewik Gheyath K Nasrallah,},

doi = {10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20589},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-10-05},

urldate = {2023-10-05},

journal = {Heliyon},

abstract = {Background: In the last decade, point of care testing (POCT) such as lateral flow immunoassays (LFIA) were developed for rapid TSH measurement. Most of these TSH-LFIAs are designed for qualitative measurements (i.e., if TSH values > 5, or >15 IU/L) and as screening tests for primary hypothyroidism in children and adults. Serum or plasma, but not venepuncture whole-blood or fingerstick/capillary, are usually used to quantify TSH accurately. Studies on performance evaluation of TSH-LFIAs POCT using venepuncture or fingerstick whole-blood are limited. Additionally, limited studies evaluated the performance and validity of TSH-LFIAs POCT compared to valid and reliable reference methods. To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate three different blood withdrawal techniques for evaluating POCT of TSH.



Aim: We aim to evaluate the performance of a new fluorescence-based LFIA and its Finecare™ fluorescent reader for quantitative measurement of TSH from a fingerstick, venepuncture whole-blood, and serum.



Methods: 102 fingerstick, venepuncture whole-blood, and serum samples (with normal and abnormal TSH values) were analyzed by Finecare™ Rapid Quantitative LFIA test and Roche CobasPro-c503 as a reference test.



Results: Using serum, when compared to CobasPro-c503 reference method, Finecare™ showed high sensitivity [90.5 % (69.6-98.8)] and specificity [96.3 % (89.6-99.2)] for diagnosis of thyroid abnormalities (<0.35 or >4.5 mIU/L). The actual test values (mIU/L) of Finecare™ showed excellent agreement (Cohen's Kappa = 0.85) and strong correlation (r = 0.93, p < 0.0001) with CobasPro-c503. Using venepuncture whole-blood samples, Finecare™ showed similar results to serum with high sensitivity [95.2 % (76.2-99.9)], specificity [97.5 % (91.4-99.7)], excellent agreement (Cohen's Kappa = 0.91), and very strong correlation (r = 0.95, p < 0.0001) with CobasPro-c503. These results suggest that Finecare™ can be used for quantitative measurement of TSH using serum or venepuncture whole-blood. These key performance indicators were slightly decreased when fingerstick whole-blood samples were used: sensitivity [85.7 %(63.7-97)], specificity [90.0 %,(81.5-96)], good agreement (Cohen's Kappa = 0.7) and very strong correlation (r = 0.9, p < 0.0001) with CobasPro-c503. A subgroup analysis of abnormal TSH samples revealed a strong and significant correlation between the reference, Finecare™ whole-blood (r = 0.692; p = 0.0015), and fingerstick test Finecare™ (r = 0.66; p = 0.0025). A very strong correlation was also observed between Cobaspro-c508 serum and Finecare™ serum (r = 0.88; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: In comparison to the reference assay, our study demonstrates that Finecare™ exhibits high sensitivity, specificity, agreement, and a strong correlation. These findings provide evidence that Finecare™ is a reliable, valid, and accurate point-of-care test for TSH screening and quantitative measurement, especially in non- or small laboratory settings.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023g,

title = {Seroprevalence of herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 among the migrant workers in Qatar},

author = {Gheyath K. Nasrallah Soha R. Dargham Duaa W. Al-Sadeq Fathima H. Amanullah Farah M. Shurrab Parveen B. Nizamuddin Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H. Ayoub Sami Abdeen Ashraf Abdelkarim Faisal Daraan Ahmed Ismail Nahid Mostafa Mohamed Sahl Jinan Suliman Elias Tayar Hasan Ali Kasem Meynard J. A. Agsalog Bassam K. Akkarathodiyil Ayat A. Alkhalaf Mohamed Morhaf M. H. Alakshar Abdulsalam Ali A. H. Al-Qahtani Monther H. A. Al-Shedifat Anas Ansari Laith J. Abu-Raddad,},

doi = {10.1186/s12985-023-02157-1},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-08-22},

urldate = {2023-08-22},

journal = {Virology Journal},

abstract = {Background: Limited data exists on herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) infections in migrant populations. This study investigated HSV-1 and HSV-2 seroprevalences and associations among craft and manual workers (CMWs) in Qatar who constitute 60% of Qatar's population.



Methods: A national population-based cross-sectional seroprevalence survey was conducted on the CMW population, all men, between July 26 and September 9, 2020. 2,612 sera were tested for anti-HSV-1 IgG antibodies using HerpeSelect 1 ELISA IgG kits and for anti-HSV-2 IgG antibodies using HerpeSelect 2 ELISA IgG kits (Focus Diagnostics, USA). Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify associations with HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections.



Results: Serological testing identified 2,171 sera as positive, 403 as negative, and 38 as equivocal for HSV-1 antibodies, and 300 sera as positive, 2,250 as negative, and 62 as equivocal for HSV-2 antibodies. HSV-1 and HSV-2 seroprevalences among CMWs were estimated at 84.2% (95% CI 82.8-85.6%) and 11.4% (95% CI 10.1-12.6%), respectively. HSV-1 infection was associated with nationality, educational attainment, and occupation. HSV-2 infection was associated with age, nationality, and educational attainment.



Conclusions: Over 80% of CMWs are infected with HSV-1 and over 10% are infected with HSV-2. The findings highlight the need for sexual health programs to tackle sexually transmitted infections among the CMW population.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Al-Dewik2023,

title = {Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms with dyslipidemia and risk of metabolic disorders in the State of Qatar},

author = {Dalal Al-Sharshani Dinesh Velayutham Muthanna Samara Reham Gazal Ayman Al Haj Zen Mohamed A Ismail Mahmoud Ahmed Gheyath Nasrallah Salma Younes Nasser Rizk Sara Hammuda M Walid Qoronfleh Thomas Farrell Hatem Zayed Palli Valapila Abdulrouf Manar AlDweik John Paul Ben Silang Alaa Rahhal Rana Al-Jurf Ahmed Mahfouz Amar Salam Hilal Al Rifai Nader I Al-Dewik,},

url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10422074/},

doi = {10.1002/mgg3.2178},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-08-11},

urldate = {2023-08-11},

journal = {Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine},

volume = {8},

pages = {e2178},

abstract = {Background



Dyslipidemia is recognized as one of the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).



Objective



The study aimed to investigate the association between selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with dyslipidemia and increased susceptibility risks of CVD, NAFLD, and/or T2DM in dyslipidemia patients in comparison with healthy control individuals from the Qatar genome project.



Methods



A community‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 2933 adults (859 dyslipidemia patients and 2074 healthy control individuals) from April to December 2021 to investigate the association between 331 selected SNPs with dyslipidemia and increased susceptibility risks of CVD, NAFLD and/or T2DM, and covariates.



Results



The genotypic frequencies of six SNPs were found to be significantly different in dyslipidemia patients subjects compared to the control group among males and females. In males, three SNPs were found to be significant, the rs11172113 in over‐dominant model, the rs646776 in recessive and over‐dominant models, and the rs1111875 in dominant model. On the other hand, two SNPs were found to be significant in females, including rs2954029 in recessive model, and rs1801251 in dominant and recessive models. The rs17514846 SNP was found for dominant and over‐dominant models among males and only the dominant model for females. We found that the six SNPs linked to gender type had an influence in relation to disease susceptibility. When controlling for the four covariates (gender, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes), the difference between dyslipidemia and the control group remained significant for the six variants. Finally, males were three times more likely to have dyslipidemia in comparison with females, hypertension was two times more likely to be present in the dyslipidemia group, and diabetes was six times more likely to be in the dyslipidemia group.



Conclusion



The current investigation provides evidence of association for a common SNP to coronary heart disease and suggests a sex‐dependent effect and encourage potential therapeutic applications.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2023c,

title = {Bivalent mRNA-1273.214 vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 omicron XBB* infections},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Sawsan AlMukdad Jeremy Samuel Faust Patrick Tang Peter Coyle Hadi M Yassine Asmaa A Al Thani Hebah A Al-Khatib Mohammad R Hasan Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar H Kaleeckal Ali N Latif Riyazuddin M Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed G Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad E Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad,},

url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37555656/#:~:text=Effectiveness%20of%20the%2050%2Dμg,%2Drecent%2Dvaccination%20resident%20cohort.},

doi = {10.1093/jtm/taad106},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-08-09},

urldate = {2023-08-09},

journal = {Journal of Travel Medicine},

abstract = {Effectiveness of the 50-μg mRNA-1273.214 bivalent vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 infection was modest at 25% in a matched, retrospective, cohort study in Qatar comparing infection incidence in the bivalent cohort to that in the national no-recent-vaccination resident cohort. XBB* immune evasion, immune imprinting effects, or both, may explain findings.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023b,

title = {Effects of previous infection, vaccination, and hybrid immunity against symptomatic Alpha, Beta, and Delta SARS-CoV-2 infections: an observational study},

author = {Heba N. Altarawneh

Hiam Chemaitelly

Houssein H. Ayoub

Patrick Tang

Mohammad R. Hasan

Hadi M. Yassine

Hebah A. Al-Khatib

Asmaa A. Al Thani

Peter Coyle

Zaina Al-Kanaani

Einas Al-Kuwari

Andrew Jeremijenko

Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal

Ali Nizar Latif

Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik

Hanan F. Abdul-Rahim

Gheyath K. Nasrallah

Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari

Adeel A. Butt

Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi

Mohamed H. Al-Thani

Abdullatif Al-Khal

Roberto Bertollini

Laith J. Abu-Raddad,

},

url = {https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(23)00299-2/fulltext#:~:text=Effectiveness%20of%20three%2Ddose%20BNT162b2,95.8%25)%20against%20Delta%20infection.},

doi = {DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104734},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-07-27},

urldate = {2023-07-27},

journal = {eBioMedicine},

abstract = {Background



Protection against SARS-CoV-2 symptomatic infection and severe COVID-19 of previous infection, mRNA two-dose vaccination, mRNA three-dose vaccination, and hybrid immunity of previous infection and vaccination were investigated in Qatar for the Alpha, Beta, and Delta variants.

Methods



Six national, matched, test-negative, case-control studies were conducted between January 18 and December 18, 2021 on a sample of 239,120 PCR-positive tests and 6,103,365 PCR-negative tests.

Findings



Effectiveness of previous infection against Alpha, Beta, and Delta reinfection was 89.5% (95% CI: 85.5–92.3%), 87.9% (95% CI: 85.4–89.9%), and 90.0% (95% CI: 86.7–92.5%), respectively. Effectiveness of two-dose BNT162b2 vaccination against Alpha, Beta, and Delta infection was 90.5% (95% CI, 83.9–94.4%), 80.5% (95% CI: 79.0–82.0%), and 58.1% (95% CI: 54.6–61.3%), respectively. Effectiveness of three-dose BNT162b2 vaccination against Delta infection was 91.7% (95% CI: 87.1–94.7%). Effectiveness of hybrid immunity of previous infection and two-dose BNT162b2 vaccination was 97.4% (95% CI: 95.4–98.5%) against Beta infection and 94.5% (95% CI: 92.8–95.8%) against Delta infection. Effectiveness of previous infection and three-dose BNT162b2 vaccination was 98.1% (95% CI: 85.7–99.7%) against Delta infection. All five forms of immunity had >90% protection against severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 regardless of variant. Similar effectiveness estimates were observed for mRNA-1273. A mathematical model accurately predicted hybrid immunity protection by assuming that the individual effects of previous infection and vaccination acted independently.

Interpretation



Hybrid immunity, offering the strongest protection, was mathematically predicted by assuming that the immunities obtained from previous infection and vaccination act independently, without synergy or redundancy.

},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023h,

title = {Long-term COVID-19 booster effectiveness by infection history and clinical vulnerability and immune imprinting: a retrospective population-based cohort study},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Patrick Tang Peter Coyle Hadi M Yassine Asmaa A Al Thani Hebah A Al-KhatibMohammad R Hasan Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Nizar Latif Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Jeremy Samuel Faust Laith J Abu-Raddad,},

doi = {10.1016/S1473-3099(23)00058-0},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-07-23},

urldate = {2023-07-23},

journal = {The Lancet Infectious Diseases },

abstract = {Background: Long-term effectiveness of COVID-19 mRNA boosters in populations with different previous infection histories and clinical vulnerability profiles is inadequately understood. We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a booster (third dose) vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection and against severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19, relative to that of primary-series (two-dose) vaccination over a follow-up duration of 1 year.



Methods: This observational, matched, retrospective, cohort study was done on the population of Qatar in people with different immune histories and different clinical vulnerability to infection. The source of data are Qatar's national databases for COVID-19 laboratory testing, vaccination, hospitalisation, and death. Associations were estimated using inverse-probability-weighted Cox proportional-hazards regression models. The primary outcome of the study is the effectiveness of COVID-19 mRNA boosters against infection and against severe COVID-19.



Findings: Data were obtained for 2 228 686 people who had received at least two vaccine doses starting from Jan 5, 2021, of whom 658 947 (29·6%) went on to receive a third dose before data cutoff on Oct 12, 2022. There were 20 528 incident infections in the three-dose cohort and 30 771 infections in the two-dose cohort. Booster effectiveness relative to primary series was 26·2% (95% CI 23·6-28·6) against infection and 75·1% (40·2-89·6) against severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19, during 1-year follow-up after the booster. Among people clinically vulnerable to severe COVID-19, effectiveness was 34·2% (27·0-40·6) against infection and 76·6% (34·5-91·7) against severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19. Effectiveness against infection was highest at 61·4% (60·2-62·6) in the first month after the booster but waned thereafter and was modest at only 15·5% (8·3-22·2) by the sixth month. In the seventh month and thereafter, coincident with BA.4/BA.5 and BA.2·75* subvariant incidence, effectiveness was progressively negative albeit with wide CIs. Similar patterns of protection were observed irrespective of previous infection status, clinical vulnerability, or type of vaccine (BNT162b2 vs mRNA-1273).},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023,

title = {Population immunity of natural infection, primary-series vaccination, and booster vaccination in Qatar during the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational study},

author = {Suelen H. Qassim Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H. Ayoub Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Hadi M. Yassine Asmaa A. Al Thani Hebah A. Al-Khatib Mohammad R. Hasan Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Nizar Latif Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F. Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K. Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Adeel A. Butt Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Mohamed H. Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J. Abu-Raddad,

},

url = {https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(23)00279-1/fulltext},

doi = {DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102102},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-07-19},

urldate = {2023-07-19},

journal = {eClinical Medicine},

abstract = {Background



Waning of natural infection protection and vaccine protection highlight the need to evaluate changes in population immunity over time. Population immunity of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection or of COVID-19 vaccination are defined, respectively, as the overall protection against reinfection or against breakthrough infection at a given point in time in a given population.

Methods



We estimated these population immunities in Qatar's population between July 1, 2020 and November 30, 2022, to discern generic features of the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2. Effectiveness of previous infection, mRNA primary-series vaccination, and mRNA booster (third-dose) vaccination in preventing infection were estimated, month by month, using matched, test-negative, case–control studies.

Findings



Previous-infection effectiveness against reinfection was strong before emergence of Omicron, but declined with time after a wave and rebounded after a new wave. Effectiveness dropped after Omicron emergence from 88.3% (95% CI: 84.8–91.0%) in November 2021 to 51.0% (95% CI: 48.3–53.6%) in December 2021. Primary-series effectiveness against infection was 84.0% (95% CI: 83.0–85.0%) in April 2021, soon after introduction of vaccination, before waning gradually to 52.7% (95% CI: 46.5–58.2%) by November 2021. Effectiveness declined linearly by ∼1 percentage point every 5 days. After Omicron emergence, effectiveness dropped from 52.7% (95% CI: 46.5–58.2%) in November 2021 to negligible levels in December 2021. Booster effectiveness dropped after Omicron emergence from 83.0% (95% CI: 65.6–91.6%) in November 2021 to 32.9% (95% CI: 26.7–38.5%) in December 2021, and continued to decline thereafter. Effectiveness of previous infection and vaccination against severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 were generally >80% throughout the study duration.

Interpretation



High population immunity against infection may not be sustained beyond a year, but population immunity against severe COVID-19 is durable with slow waning even after Omicron emergence.

},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Cho2023,

title = {An updated overview of cyanidins for chemoprevention and cancer therapy},

author = {Anna Maria Posadino Roberta Giordo Iman Ramli Hatem Zayed Gheyath K. Nasrallah Zena Wehbe Ali H. Eid Eda Sönmez Gürer John F. Kennedy Afaf Ahmed Aldahish Daniela Calina Ahmad Faizal Abdul Razis Babagana Modu Solomon Habtemariam Javad Sharifi-Rad Gianfranco Pintus William C. Cho,},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332223005723#:~:text=Highlights&text=Cyanides%20are%20naturally%20occurring%20organic,and%20reverse%20chemotherapeutic%20drug%20resistance.},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114783},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-07-11},

journal = {Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy},

volume = {163},

abstract = {Anthocyanins are colored polyphenolic compounds that belong to the flavonoids family and are largely present in many vegetables and fruits. They have been used in traditional medicine in many cultures for a long time. The most common and abundant anthocyanins are those presenting an O-glycosylation at C-3 (C ring) of the flavonoid skeleton to form -O-β-glucoside derivatives. The present comprehensive review summarized recent data on the anticancer properties of cyanidings along with natural sources, phytochemical data, traditional medical applications, molecular mechanisms and recent nanostrategies to increase the bioavailability and anticancer effects of cyanidins. For this analysis, in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies published up to the year 2022 were sourced from scientific databases and search engines such as PubMed/Medline, Google scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, Wiley and TRIP database. Cyanidins’ antitumor properties are exerted during different stages of carcinogenesis and are based on a wide variety of biological activities. The data gathered and discussed in this review allows for affirming that cyanidins have relevant anticancer activity in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. Future research should focus on studies that bring new data on improving the bioavailability of anthocyanins and on conducting detailed translational pharmacological studies to accurately establish the effective anticancer dose in humans as well as the correct route of administration.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2023b,

title = {A review of rapid food safety testing: using lateral flow assay platform to detect foodborne pathogens},

author = {Nadin Younes Hadi M Yassine Katerina Kourentzi Patrick Tang Dmitri Litvinov Richard C Willson Laith J Abu-Raddad Gheyath K Nasrallah,},

url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408398.2023.2217921},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2023.2217921},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-06-23},

urldate = {2023-06-23},

journal = {Critical Reviews In Food Science and Nutrition},

abstract = {he detrimental impact of foodborne pathogens on human health makes food safety a major concern at all levels of production. Conventional methods to detect foodborne pathogens, such as live culture, high-performance liquid chromatography, and molecular techniques, are relatively tedious, time-consuming, laborious, and expensive, which hinders their use for on-site applications. Recurrent outbreaks of foodborne illness have heightened the demand for rapid and simple technologies for detection of foodborne pathogens. Recently, Lateral flow assays (LFA) have drawn attention because of their ability to detect pathogens rapidly, cheaply, and on-site. Here, we reviewed the latest developments in LFAs to detect various foodborne pathogens in food samples, giving special attention to how reporters and labels have improved LFA performance. We also discussed different approaches to improve LFA sensitivity and specificity. Most importantly, due to the lack of studies on LFAs for the detection of viral foodborne pathogens in food samples, we summarized our recent research on developing LFAs for the detection of viral foodborne pathogens. Finally, we highlighted the main challenges for further development of LFA platforms. In summary, with continuing improvements, LFAs may soon offer excellent performance at point-of-care that is competitive with laboratory techniques while retaining a rapid format.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Editorial: Unconventional animal models in infectious disease research, volume II},

author = {Salma Younes Nouran Zein Shaden Abunasser Layla Kamareddine Natalia V. Kirienko Gheyath K. Nasrallah,},

url = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2023.1225129/full},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2023.1225129},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-06-14},

urldate = {2023-06-14},

journal = {Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology},

volume = {13},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Assessment of Broadly Reactive Responses in Patients With MERS-CoV Infection and SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination},

author = {Hadeel T Zedan Maria K Smatti Swapna Thomas Gheyath K Nasrallah Nahla M Afifi Ali Ait Hssain Laith J Abu Raddad Peter V Coyle Jean-Charles Grivel Muna A Almaslamani Asmaa A Althani Hadi M Yassine,},

url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10314312/},

doi = {10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.19222},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-06-14},

urldate = {2023-06-14},

journal = {JAMA Network Open},

volume = {6},

issue = {6},

pages = {e2319222},

abstract = {Importance  In the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there remain unanswered questions regarding the nature and importance of the humoral immune response against other coronaviruses. Although coinfection of the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) with the SARS-CoV-2 has not been documented yet, several patients previously infected with MERS-CoV received the COVID-19 vaccine; data describing how preexisting MERS-CoV immunity may shape the response to SARS-CoV-2 following infection or vaccination are lacking.



Objective  To characterize the cross-reactive and protective humoral responses in patients exposed to both MERS-CoV infection and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.



Design, Setting, and Participants  This cohort study involved a total of 18 sera samples collected from 14 patients with MERS-CoV infection before (n = 12) and after (n = 6) vaccination with 2 doses of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273). Of those patients, 4 had prevaccination and postvaccination samples. Antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV were assessed as well as cross-reactive responses to other human coronaviruses.



Main Outcomes and Measures  The main outcomes measured were binding antibody responses, neutralizing antibodies, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity. Binding antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 main antigens (spike [S], nucleocapsid, and receptor-binding domain) were detected using automated immunoassays. Cross-reactive antibodies with the S1 protein of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and common human coronaviruses were analyzed using a bead-based assay. Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 as well as ADCC activity against SARS-CoV-2 were assessed.



Results  A total of 18 samples were collected from 14 male patients with MERS-CoV infection (mean [SD] age, 43.8 [14.6] years). Median (IQR) duration between primary COVID-19 vaccination and sample collection was 146 (47-189) days. Prevaccination samples had high levels of anti-MERS S1 immunoglobin M (IgM) and IgG (reactivity index ranging from 0.80 to 54.7 for IgM and from 0.85 to 176.3 for IgG). Cross-reactive antibodies with SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 were also detected in these samples. However, cross-reactivity against other coronaviruses was not detected by the microarray assay. Postvaccination samples showed significantly higher levels of total antibodies, IgG, and IgA targeting SARS-CoV-2 S protein compared with prevaccination samples (eg, mean total antibodies: 8955.0 AU/mL; 95% CI, −5025.0 to 22936.0 arbitrary units/mL; P = .002). In addition, significantly higher anti-SARS S1 IgG levels were detected following vaccination (mean reactivity index, 55.4; 95% CI, −9.1 to 120.0; P = .001), suggesting potential cross-reactivity with these coronaviruses. Also, anti-S NAbs were significantly boosted against SARS-CoV-2 (50.5% neutralization; 95% CI, 17.6% to 83.2% neutralization; P < .001) after vaccination. Furthermore, there was no significant increase in antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity against SARS-CoV-2 S protein postvaccination.



Conclusions and Relevance  This cohort study found a significant boost in cross-reactive NAbs in some patients exposed to MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 antigens. These findings suggest that isolation of broadly reactive antibodies from these patients may help guide the development of a pancoronavirus vaccine by targeting cross-reactive epitopes between distinct strains of human coronaviruses.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Yassine2023,

title = {Assessment of Broadly Reactive Responses in Patients With MERS-CoV Infection and SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination},

author = {Hadeel T Zedan Maria K Smatti Swapna Thomas Gheyath K Nasrallah Nahla M Afifi Ali Ait Hssain Laith J Abu Raddad Peter V Coyle Jean-Charles Grivel Muna A Almaslamani Asmaa A Althani Hadi M Yassine,},

url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10314312/},

doi = {10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.19222},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-06-14},

urldate = {2023-06-14},

journal = {JAMA Network Open},

volume = {6},

issue = {6},

pages = {e2319222},

abstract = {Importance  In the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there remain unanswered questions regarding the nature and importance of the humoral immune response against other coronaviruses. Although coinfection of the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) with the SARS-CoV-2 has not been documented yet, several patients previously infected with MERS-CoV received the COVID-19 vaccine; data describing how preexisting MERS-CoV immunity may shape the response to SARS-CoV-2 following infection or vaccination are lacking.



Objective  To characterize the cross-reactive and protective humoral responses in patients exposed to both MERS-CoV infection and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.



Design, Setting, and Participants  This cohort study involved a total of 18 sera samples collected from 14 patients with MERS-CoV infection before (n = 12) and after (n = 6) vaccination with 2 doses of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273). Of those patients, 4 had prevaccination and postvaccination samples. Antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV were assessed as well as cross-reactive responses to other human coronaviruses.



Main Outcomes and Measures  The main outcomes measured were binding antibody responses, neutralizing antibodies, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity. Binding antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 main antigens (spike [S], nucleocapsid, and receptor-binding domain) were detected using automated immunoassays. Cross-reactive antibodies with the S1 protein of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and common human coronaviruses were analyzed using a bead-based assay. Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 as well as ADCC activity against SARS-CoV-2 were assessed.



Results  A total of 18 samples were collected from 14 male patients with MERS-CoV infection (mean [SD] age, 43.8 [14.6] years). Median (IQR) duration between primary COVID-19 vaccination and sample collection was 146 (47-189) days. Prevaccination samples had high levels of anti-MERS S1 immunoglobin M (IgM) and IgG (reactivity index ranging from 0.80 to 54.7 for IgM and from 0.85 to 176.3 for IgG). Cross-reactive antibodies with SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 were also detected in these samples. However, cross-reactivity against other coronaviruses was not detected by the microarray assay. Postvaccination samples showed significantly higher levels of total antibodies, IgG, and IgA targeting SARS-CoV-2 S protein compared with prevaccination samples (eg, mean total antibodies: 8955.0 AU/mL; 95% CI, −5025.0 to 22936.0 arbitrary units/mL; P = .002). In addition, significantly higher anti-SARS S1 IgG levels were detected following vaccination (mean reactivity index, 55.4; 95% CI, −9.1 to 120.0; P = .001), suggesting potential cross-reactivity with these coronaviruses. Also, anti-S NAbs were significantly boosted against SARS-CoV-2 (50.5% neutralization; 95% CI, 17.6% to 83.2% neutralization; P < .001) after vaccination. Furthermore, there was no significant increase in antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity against SARS-CoV-2 S protein postvaccination.



Conclusions and Relevance  This cohort study found a significant boost in cross-reactive NAbs in some patients exposed to MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 antigens. These findings suggest that isolation of broadly reactive antibodies from these patients may help guide the development of a pancoronavirus vaccine by targeting cross-reactive epitopes between distinct strains of human coronaviruses.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Yassine2023b,

title = {Enhancing the sensitivity of rapid antigen detection test (RADT) of different SARS-CoV-2 variants and lineages using fluorescence-labeled antibodies and a fluorescent meter},

author = {Gheyath K Nasrallah Fatma Ali Salma Younes Heba A Al Khatib Asmaa A Al-Thani Hadi M Yassine,},

url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10257515/},

doi = {10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17179},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-06-14},

urldate = {2023-06-14},

journal = {Heliyon},

volume = {9},

issue = {6},

pages = {e17179.},

abstract = {RT-qPCR is considered the gold standard for diagnosis of COVID-19; however, it is laborious, time-consuming, and expensive. RADTs have evolved recently as relatively inexpensive methods to address these shortcomings, but their performance for detecting different SARS-COV-2 variants remains limited. RADT test performance could be enhanced using different antibody labeling and signal detection techniques. Here, we aimed to evaluate the performance of two antigen RADTs for detecting different SARS-CoV-2 variants: (i) the conventional colorimetric RADT (Ab-conjugated with gold beads); and (ii) the new Finecare™ RADT (Ab-coated fluorescent beads). Finecare™ is a meter used for the detection of a fluorescent signal. 187 frozen nasopharyngeal swabs collected in Universal transport (UTM) that are RT-qPCR positive for different SARS-CoV-2 variants were selected, including Alpha (n = 60), Delta (n = 59), and Omicron variants (n = 108). Sixty flu and 60 RSV-positive samples were included as negative controls (total sample number = 347). The conventional RADT showed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 62.4% (95%CI: 54-70), 100% (95%CI: 97-100), 100% (95%CI: 100-100), and 58% (95%CI: 49-67), respectively. These measurements were enhanced using the Finecare™ RADT: sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 92.6% (95%CI: 89.08-92.3), 96% (95%CI: 96-99.61), 98% (95%CI: 89-92.3), and 85% (95%CI: 96-99.6) respectively. The sensitivity of both RADTs could be greatly underestimated because nasopharyngeal swab samples collected UTM and stored at -80 °C were used. Despite that, our results indicate that the Finecare™ RADT is appropriate for clinical laboratory and community-based surveillance due to its high sensitivity and specificity.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abdullah2023,

title = {ZnO-Doped gC 3 N 4 Nanocapsules for Enhancing the Performance of Electroless NiP Coating─Mechanical, Corrosion Protection, and Antibacterial Properties},

author = {Fatma Nabhan Eman M. Fayyad Mostafa H. Sliem Farah M. Shurrab Kamel Eid Gheyath Nasrallah Aboubakr M. Abdullah,},

url = {https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsomega.2c07288},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.2c07288},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-06-13},

urldate = {2023-06-13},

journal = {ACS Omega},

volume = {8},

issue = {25},

abstract = {A carbon nitride (C3N4) nanomaterial has superior mechanical, thermal, and tribological properties, which make them attractive for various applications, including corrosion-resistant coatings. In this research, newly synthesized C3N4 nanocapsules with different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 wt %) of ZnO as a dopant were incorporated into the NiP coating using an electroless deposition technique. The nanocomposite coatings either ZnO-doped (NiP-C3N4/ZnO) or undoped (NiP-C3N4) were heat-treated at 400 °C for 1 h. The as-plated and heat-treated (HT) nanocomposite coatings were characterized by their morphology, phases, roughness, wettability, hardness, corrosion protection, and antibacterial properties. The results indicated that the microhardness of as-plated and heat-treated nanocomposite coatings was significantly improved after the incorporation of 0.5 wt % ZnO-doped C3N4 nanocapsules. The outcomes of electrochemical studies revealed that the corrosion resistance of the HT coatings is higher than the corresponding as-plated ones. The highest corrosion resistance is achieved on the heat-treated NiP-C3N4/1.0 wt % ZnO coatings. Although the presence of ZnO in the C3N4 nanocapsules increased its surface area and porosity, the C3N4/ZnO nanocapsules prevented localized corrosion by filling the microdefects and pores of the NiP matrix. Furthermore, the colony-counting method used to evaluate the antibacterial behavior of the different coatings demonstrated superior antibacterial properties, namely, after heat treatment. Therefore, the novel perspective C3N4/ZnO nanocapsules can be utilized as a reinforcement nanomaterial in improving the mechanical and anticorrosion performance of NiP coatings in chloride media, together with providing superior antibacterial properties.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Al-Dewik2023b,

title = {Management of chronic myeloid leukaemia: current treatment options, challenges, and future strategies},

author = {Salma Younes Mohamed A Ismail Rana Al-Jurf Ayah Ziyada Gheyath K Nasrallah Palli Valapila Abdulrouf Mohamed Nagy Hatem Zayed Thomas Farrell Claudio Sorio Hisham Morsi Walid Qoronfleh Nader I Al-Dewik,},

url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/16078454.2023.2196866},

doi = {10.1080/16078454.2023.2196866},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-03-28},

urldate = {2023-03-28},

journal = {Hematology},

volume = {28},

issue = {1},

abstract = {ABSTRACTSmall molecule therapy is a critical component of targeted anticancer treatment, with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) being the first compounds to treat the clonal Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia (CML) translocation t (9;22) (q34; q11) effectively since 2001. TKIs, such as imatinib, have improved the 10-year survival rate of CML patients to 80%. They bind the BCR::ABL1 kinase and inhibit downstream signaling pathways. However, therapy failure may be seen in 20-25% of CML patients due to intolerance or inadequacy related to BCR::ABL1 dependent or independent mechanisms. This review aimed to summarize current treatment options involving TKIs, resistance mechanisms and the prospective approaches to overcome TKI resistance. We highlight BCR::ABL1-dependent mechanisms of TKI resistance by reviewing clinically-documented BCR::ABL1 mutations and their consequences for TKI binding. In addition, we summarize BCR::ABL1 independent pathways, including the relevance of drug efflux, dysregulation of microRNA, and the involvement of alternative signaling pathways. We also discuss future approaches, such as gene-editing techniques in the context of CML, as potential therapeutic strategies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah2023,

title = {Performance Evaluation of a New Fluorescent-Based Lateral Flow Immunoassay for Quantification of Hemoglobin A1c (HBA1c) in Diabetic Patients},

author = {Nadin Younes Mahmoud M. Al Ghwairi Sahar Isa Da'as Eiman Al Zaabi Amin F. Majdalawieh Nader Al-Dewik Gheyath K. Nasrallah,},

url = {https://www.imrpress.com/journal/FBL/28/3/10.31083/j.fbl2803060},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-03-25},

urldate = {2023-03-25},

journal = {Frontiers in Bioscience-Landmark},

volume = {28},

issue = {3},

abstract = {Background: Rapid hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) level monitoring is essential in slowing the progression of diabetes. This need becomes challenging in low resources countries where the social burden of the disease is overwhelming. Recently, fluorescent-based lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs) gained wide attention for small laboratories and population surveillance. Aim: We aim to evaluate the performance of Finecare™ HbA1c Rapid Test, certified by CE, NGSP, and IFCC, for the quantitative measurement of hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) along with its reader. Methods: A total of 100 (fingerstick and venepuncture whole blood) samples were analyzed by Wondfo Finecare™ HbA1c Rapid Quantitative Test and the results were compared with the reference assay Cobas Pro c503. Results: A strong correlation was observed between Finecare™/Cobas Pro c503 with fingerstick (r 

>

>

 0.93, p 

<

<

 0.0001) and venous (r 

>

>

 0.97, p 

<

<

 0.0001) blood samples. Finecare™ measurements showed excellent agreement and compliance with Roche Cobas Pro c503 as the mean bias was negligible; 0.05 (Limits-of-agreement: –0.58–0.68) with fingerstick and 0.003 (Limits-of-agreement: –0.49–0.50) with venous blood. Interestingly, a very small mean bias (0.047) was also shown between the fingerstick and the venepuncture data, indicating that the type of sample used does not affect the results and the high reproducibility of the assay. Finecare™ showed 92.0% (95% CI: 74.0–99.0) sensitivity and 94.7% (95% CI: 86.9–98.5) specificity compared to the Roche Cobas Pro c503 using fingerstick whole blood samples. Finecare™ showed 100% (95% CI: 86.3–100) sensitivity and 98.7% (95% CI: 92.8–100) specificity compared to the Cobas Pro c503 using venepuncture samples. Cohen’s Kappa denoted excellent agreement with Cobas Pro c503; 0.84 (95% CI: 0.72–0.97) and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.92–1.00) using fingerstick and venous blood samples, respectively. Most importantly, Finecare™ showed a significant difference between normal, pre-diabetic, and diabetic samples (p < 0.0001). Similar results were obtained when an additional 47 samples (from different participants; mainly diabetic) were analyzed in a different lab using different Finecare™ analyzer and different kit lot number. Conclusions: Finecare™ is a reliable and rapid assay (5 min) which can be easily implemented for long-term monitoring of HbA1c in diabetic patients, particularly in small laboratory settings.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Thomas2023,

title = {Influenza Prevalence and Vaccine Efficacy among Diabetic Patients in Qatar},

author = {Swapna Thomas Mohamed M Emara Allal Ouhtit Joanne D Nader Gheyath K Nasrallah Peter V Coyle Asmaa A Althani Muna A Al Maslamani Hadi M Yassine,},

url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1876034123000928},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-03-14},

urldate = {2023-03-14},

journal = {Journal of Infection and Public Health},

abstract = {Seasonal influenza viruses may lead to severe illness and mortality in patients with comorbidities, including Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Vaccination against influenza in DM patients may reduce influenza incidence and severity. Before the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, influenza infections were the most prevalent respiratory infections in Qatar. Still, reports about influenza prevalence and vaccine efficacy in DM patients have not been reported. This study aimed to analyze influenza prevalence among other respiratory infections and assess influenza vaccine efficacy in DM patients in Qatar. Statistical analysis was performed on data obtained from Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) database for patients that visited the emergency department (ED) with respiratory-like illnesses. The analysis was done for the period between January 2016 to December 2018. Among 17,525 patients who visited HMC-ED with clinical symptoms of respiratory infections, 2,611(14.9%) were reported to have DM. Among DM patients, influenza was the most prevalent respiratory pathogen at 48.9%. Influenza virus A (IVA) was the most circulating type, contributing to 38.4%, followed by IVB contributing to 10.4% of total respiratory infections. Among the typed IVA-positive cases, 33.4% were H1N1, and 7.7% were H3N2. A significant decrease in influenza infections was reported in vaccinated DM patients (14.5%) when compared to non-vaccinated patients (18.9%) (p-value = 0.006). However, there was no significant relaxation in the clinical symptoms among vaccinated DM patients compared to their non-vaccinated counterparts.



In conclusion, influenza was the most common etiology for respiratory viral infection among diabetic patients at the leading healthcare provider in Qatar. Although vaccination reduced the incidence rate among DM patients, it was less effective in preventing symptoms. Further studies on a larger cohort and for a more extended period are required to investigate influenza prevalence and vaccine efficacy among DM patients.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2023,

title = {BNT162b2 antigen dose and SARS-CoV-2 omicron infection in adolescents},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Hadi M Yassine Asmaa A Al Thani Hebah A Al-Khatib Mohammad R Hasan Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Nizar Latif Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Adeel A Butt Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddadad,},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-03-08},

journal = {Lancet Infectious disease},

volume = {23},

issue = {3},

pages = {276–277.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Mathew2023,

title = {Vaccine evaluation and genotype characterization in children infected with rotavirus in Qatar},

author = {Shilu Mathew Hebah A. Al Khatib Malak Al Ibrahim Khalid Al Ansari Maria K. Smatti Gheyath K. Nasrallah Emad Ibrahim Asmaa A. Al Thani Hassan Zaraket Hadi M. Yassine,},

url = {https://www.nature.com/articles/s41390-023-02468-7},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-03-07},

urldate = {2023-03-07},

journal = {Pediatric Research },

abstract = {Background

We characterized and identified the genetic and antigenic variations of circulating rotavirus strains in comparison to used rotavirus vaccines.



Methods

Rotavirus-positive samples (n = 231) were collected and analyzed. The VP7 and VP4 genes were sequenced and analyzed against the rotavirus vaccine strains. Antigenic variations were illustrated on the three-dimensional models of surface proteins.



Results

In all, 59.7% of the hospitalized children were vaccinated, of which only 57.2% received two doses. There were no significant differences between the vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups in terms of clinical outcome. The G3 was the dominant genotype (40%) regardless of vaccination status. Several amino acid changes were identified in the VP7 and VP4 antigenic epitopes compared to the licensed vaccines. The highest variability was seen in the G3 (6 substitutions) and P[4] (11 substitutions) genotypes in comparison to RotaTeq®. In comparison to Rotarix®, G1 strains possessed three amino acid changes in 7-1a and 7-2 epitopes while P[8] strains possessed five amino acid changes in 8-1 and 8-3 epitopes.



Conclusions

The current use of Rotarix® vaccine might not be effective in preventing the infection due to the higher numbers of G3-associated cases. The wide range of mutations in the antigenic epitopes compared to vaccine strains may compromise the vaccine’s effectiveness.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{nokey,

title = {Prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of major congenital anomalies: A population-based register study},

author = {Nader Al-Dewik Muthanna Samara Salma Younes Rana Al-jurf Gheyath Nasrallah Sawsan Al-Obaidly Husam Salama Tawa Olukade Sara Hammuda Neil Marlow Mohamed Ismail Taghreed Abu Nada M. Walid Qoronfleh Binny Thomas Ghassan Abdoh Palli Valapila Abdulrouf Thomas Farrell Mai Al Qubaisi Hilal Al Rifai,},

url = {https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-27935-3},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-23},

urldate = {2023-02-23},

journal = {Scientific reports },

volume = {13},

pages = {2198},

abstract = {Congenital anomalies (CAs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in early life. We aimed to assess the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of major CAs in the State of Qatar. A population-based retrospective data analysis of registry data retrieved from the Perinatal Neonatal Outcomes Research Study in the Arabian Gulf (PEARL-Peristat Study) between April 2017 and March 2018. The sample included 25,204 newborn records, which were audited between April 2017 and March 2018, of which 25,073 live births were identified and included in the study. Maternal risk factors and neonatal outcomes were assessed for association with specific CAs, including chromosomal/genetic, central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular system (CVS), facial, renal, multiple congenital anomalies (MCAs) using univariate and multivariate analyses. The incidence of any CA among live births was 1.3% (n = 332). The most common CAs were CVS (n = 117; 35%), MCAs (n = 69, 21%), chromosomal/genetic (51; 15%), renal (n = 39; 12%), CNS (n = 20; 6%), facial (14, 4%), and other (GIT, Resp, Urogenital, Skeletal) (n = 22, 7%) anomalies. Multivariable regression analysis showed that multiple pregnancies, parity ≥ 1, maternal BMI, and demographic factors (mother’s age and ethnicity, and infant’s gender) were associated with various specific CAs. In-hospital mortality rate due to CAs was estimated to be 15.4%. CAs were significantly associated with high rates of caesarean deliveries (aOR 1.51; 95% CI 1.04–2.19), Apgar < 7 at 1 min (aOR 5.44; 95% CI 3.10–9.55), Apgar < 7 at 5 min (aOR 17.26; 95% CI 6.31–47.18), in-hospital mortality (aOR 76.16; 37.96–152.8), admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or perinatal death of neonate in labor room (LR)/operation theatre (OT) (aOR 34.03; 95% CI 20.51–56.46), prematurity (aOR 4.17; 95% CI 2.75–6.32), and low birth weight (aOR 5.88; 95% CI 3.92–8.82) before and after adjustment for the significant risk factors. This is the first study to assess the incidence, maternal risk factors, and neonatal outcomes associated with CAs in the state of Qatar. Therefore, a specialized congenital anomaly data registry is needed to identify risk factors and outcomes. In addition, counselling of mothers and their families may help to identify specific needs for pregnant women and their babies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2023b,

title = {Protection against Reinfection with the Omicron BA.2.75 Subvariant},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly

Patrick Tang

Peter Coyle

Hadi M. Yassine

Hebah A. Al-Khatib

Maria K. Smatti

Mohammad R. Hasan

Houssein H. Ayoub

Heba N. Altarawneh

Zaina Al-Kanaani

Einas Al-Kuwari

Andrew Jeremijenko

Anvar H. Kaleeckal

Ali N. Latif

Riyazuddin M. Shaik

Hanan F. Abdul-Rahim

Gheyath K. Nasrallah

Mohamed G. Al-Kuwari

Adeel A. Butt

Hamad E. Al-Romaihi

Mohamed H. Al-Thani

Abdullatif Al-Khal

Roberto Bertollini

Laith J. Abu-Raddad,},

url = {https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2214114},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-16},

journal = {The New England Journal of Medicine},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasrallah,2023,

title = {Screening and diagnostic testing protocols for HIV and Syphilis infections in health care setting in Qatar: Evaluation and recommendations},

author = {Gheyath K. Nasrallah

Raniya Al-Buainain

Nadin Younes

Soha R. Dargham

Duaa W. Al-Sadeq

Mohamed Elhassan

Ibrahim Al-Shaar

Hadi M. Yassine

LaithJ. Abu-Raddad

Mohamed M. Emara

Ahmed Ismail,},

url = {https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0278079},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0278079},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-08},

urldate = {2023-02-08},

journal = {PLoS ONE },

volume = {18},

issue = {2},

pages = {e0278079},

abstract = {Background: HIV and Syphilis are common STIs, which have become a concern and burden on healthcare systems, as many infections go untreated and lead to potentially serious complications. HIV is usually diagnosed with Western blot, PCR, and p24 antigen testing. Whereas, Syphilis is mainly diagnosed through clinical findings and serologic testing. The Medical Commission Department (MC) under MOPH is responsible for screening all newcomers to Qatar, aiming to keep the country free from serious infectious diseases. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of the protocols used in the MC for screening HIV and Syphilis infections. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of samples analyzed by 4th Generation ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo and Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) between January to December 2019. ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo positive samples were confirmed by INNO-LIA™ HIVI/II and RT-PCR. RPR-reactive samples were confirmed by ARCHITECT® Syphilis Treponema pallidium Antibody (Syphilis TPA) assay. Results: For HIV, data were collected from 585,587 individuals, of which 595 (0.1%) were positive by the ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo (Analyzer A). When all initially positive sera were re-tested on newly collected blood samples using different ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo analyzer (analyzer B), 99.8% (594/595) of samples were also positive, suggesting high reproducibility. The positive predictive value (PPV) between ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo and the INNO-LIA™ HIVI/II confirmatory assay was 31.8%. The PPV between ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo and HIV-PCR assay was 26.8%. Retrospective data for Syphilis were collected from a total of 97,298 individuals who visited the MC, of which 198 (0.20%) were initially positive by RPR. The PPV between RPR and Syphilis TPA confirmatory assay was 36.6%. Conclusion: Despite the high rate of false positivity using ARCHITECT® HIV Ag/Ab Combo and RPR screening assays, both assays have proven to be highly effective as screening testing methods.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Rifai2023,

title = {Prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of major congenital anomalies: A population-based register study},

author = {Nader Al-Dewik Muthanna Samara Salma Younes Rana Al-Jurf Gheyath Nasrallah Sawsan Al-Obaidly Husam Salama Tawa Olukade Sara Hammuda Neil Marlow Mohamed Ismail Taghreed Abu Nada M Walid Qoronfleh Binny Thomas Ghassan Abdoh Palli Valapila Abdulrouf Thomas Farrell Mai Al Qubaisi Hilal Al Rifai},

doi = {10.1038/s41598-023-27935-3.},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-08},

journal = {Scientific Reports},

abstract = {Congenital anomalies (CAs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in early life. We aimed to assess the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of major CAs in the State of Qatar. A population-based retrospective data analysis of registry data retrieved from the Perinatal Neonatal Outcomes Research Study in the Arabian Gulf (PEARL-Peristat Study) between April 2017 and March 2018. The sample included 25,204 newborn records, which were audited between April 2017 and March 2018, of which 25,073 live births were identified and included in the study. Maternal risk factors and neonatal outcomes were assessed for association with specific CAs, including chromosomal/genetic, central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular system (CVS), facial, renal, multiple congenital anomalies (MCAs) using univariate and multivariate analyses. The incidence of any CA among live births was 1.3% (n = 332). The most common CAs were CVS (n = 117; 35%), MCAs (n = 69, 21%), chromosomal/genetic (51; 15%), renal (n = 39; 12%), CNS (n = 20; 6%), facial (14, 4%), and other (GIT, Resp, Urogenital, Skeletal) (n = 22, 7%) anomalies. Multivariable regression analysis showed that multiple pregnancies, parity ≥ 1, maternal BMI, and demographic factors (mother's age and ethnicity, and infant's gender) were associated with various specific CAs. In-hospital mortality rate due to CAs was estimated to be 15.4%. CAs were significantly associated with high rates of caesarean deliveries (aOR 1.51; 95% CI 1.04-2.19), Apgar < 7 at 1 min (aOR 5.44; 95% CI 3.10-9.55), Apgar < 7 at 5 min (aOR 17.26; 95% CI 6.31-47.18), in-hospital mortality (aOR 76.16; 37.96-152.8), admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or perinatal death of neonate in labor room (LR)/operation theatre (OT) (aOR 34.03; 95% CI 20.51-56.46), prematurity (aOR 4.17; 95% CI 2.75-6.32), and low birth weight (aOR 5.88; 95% CI 3.92-8.82) before and after adjustment for the significant risk factors. This is the first study to assess the incidence, maternal risk factors, and neonatal outcomes associated with CAs in the state of Qatar. Therefore, a specialized congenital anomaly data registry is needed to identify risk factors and outcomes. In addition, counselling of mothers and their families may help to identify specific needs for pregnant women and their babies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abu-Raddad2023i,

title = {Protection against Reinfection with the Omicron BA. 2.75 Subvariant},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Patrick Tang Peter Coyle Hadi M Yassine Hebah A Al-Khatib Maria K Smatti Mohammad R Hasan Houssein H Ayoub Heba N Altarawneh Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar H Kaleeckal Ali N Latif Riyazuddin M Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed G Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad E Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad},

doi = {10.1056/NEJMc2214114},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-02},

journal = {New England Journal of Medicine},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2022b,

title = {Protection from previous natural infection compared with mRNA vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19 in Qatar: a retrospective cohort study},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Sawsan AlMukdad Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Hadi M Yassine Hebah A Al-Khatib Maria K Smatti Mohammad R Hasan Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Ali Nizar Latif, Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad},

url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36375482/},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-12-03},

urldate = {2022-12-03},

journal = {The Lancet Microbe},

volume = {3},

abstract = {Background: Understanding protection conferred by natural SARS-CoV-2 infection versus COVID-19 vaccination is important for informing vaccine mandate decisions. We compared protection conferred by natural infection versus that from the BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) and mRNA-1273 (Moderna) vaccines in Qatar.



Methods: We conducted two matched retrospective cohort studies that emulated target trials. Data were obtained from the national federated databases for COVID-19 vaccination, SARS-CoV-2 testing, and COVID-19-related hospitalisation and death between Feb 28, 2020 (pandemic onset in Qatar) and May 12, 2022. We matched individuals with a documented primary infection and no vaccination record (natural infection cohort) with individuals who had received two doses (primary series) of the same vaccine (BNT162b2-vaccinated or mRNA-1273-vaccinated cohorts) at the start of follow-up (90 days after the primary infection). Individuals were exact matched (1:1) by sex, 10-year age group, nationality, comorbidity count, and timing of primary infection or first-dose vaccination. Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19-related hospitalisation and death in the natural infection cohorts was compared with incidence in the vaccinated cohorts, using Cox proportional hazards regression models with adjustment for matching factors.



Findings: Between Jan 5, 2021 (date of second-dose vaccine roll-out) and May 12, 2022, 104 500 individuals vaccinated with BNT162b2 and 61 955 individuals vaccinated with mRNA-1273 were matched to unvaccinated individuals with a documented primary infection. During follow-up, 7123 SARS-CoV-2 infections were recorded in the BNT162b2-vaccinated cohort and 3583 reinfections were recorded in the matched natural infection cohort. 4282 SARS-CoV-2 infections were recorded in the mRNA-1273-vaccinated cohort and 2301 reinfections were recorded in the matched natural infection cohort. The overall adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for SARS-CoV-2 infection was 0·47 (95% CI 0·45-0·48) after previous natural infection versus BNT162b2 vaccination, and 0·51 (0·49-0·54) after previous natural infection versus mRNA-1273 vaccination. The overall adjusted HR for severe (acute care hospitalisations), critical (intensive care unit hospitalisations), or fatal COVID-19 cases was 0·24 (0·08-0·72) after previous natural infection versus BNT162b2 vaccination, and 0·24 (0·05-1·19) after previous natural infection versus mRNA-1273 vaccination. Severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 was rare in both the natural infection and vaccinated cohorts.



Interpretation: Previous natural infection was associated with lower incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, regardless of the variant, than mRNA primary-series vaccination. Vaccination remains the safest and most optimal tool for protecting against infection and COVID-19-related hospitalisation and death, irrespective of previous infection status.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2022,

title = {Covid-19 Vaccine Protection among Children and Adolescents in Qatar},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Sawsan AlMukdad Houssein H. Ayoub Heba N. Altarawneh Peter Coyle Patrick Tang Hadi M. Yassine Hebah A. Al-Khatib Maria K. Smatti Mohammad R. Hasan, Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar H. Kaleeckal, Ali N. Latif Riyazuddin M. Shaik Hanan F. Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K. Nasrallah Mohamed G. Al-Kuwari Hamad E. Al-Romaihi Adeel A. Butt Mohamed H. Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J. Abu-Raddad},

url = {https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2210058},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-11-17},

urldate = {2022-11-17},

journal = {New England Journal of Medicine},

abstract = {BACKGROUND

The BNT162b2 vaccine against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has been authorized for use in children 5 to 11 years of age and adolescents 12 to 17 years of age but in different antigen doses.

METHODS

We assessed the real-world effectiveness of the BNT162b2 vaccine against infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) among children and adolescents in Qatar. To compare the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the national cohort of vaccinated participants with the incidence in the national cohort of unvaccinated participants, we conducted three matched, retrospective, target-trial, cohort studies — one assessing data obtained from children 5 to 11 years of age after the B.1.1.529 (omicron) variant became prevalent and two assessing data from adolescents 12 to 17 years of age before the emergence of the omicron variant (pre-omicron study) and after the omicron variant became prevalent. Associations were estimated with the use of Cox proportional-hazards regression models.

RESULTS

Among children, the overall effectiveness of the 10-μg primary vaccine series against infection with the omicron variant was 25.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.0 to 38.6). Effectiveness was highest (49.6%; 95% CI, 28.5 to 64.5) right after receipt of the second dose but waned rapidly thereafter and was negligible after 3 months. Effectiveness was 46.3% (95% CI, 21.5 to 63.3) among children 5 to 7 years of age and 16.6% (95% CI, −4.2 to 33.2) among those 8 to 11 years of age. Among adolescents, the overall effectiveness of the 30-μg primary vaccine series against infection with the omicron variant was 30.6% (95% CI, 26.9 to 34.1), but many adolescents had been vaccinated months earlier. Effectiveness waned over time since receipt of the second dose. Effectiveness was 35.6% (95% CI, 31.2 to 39.6) among adolescents 12 to 14 years of age and 20.9% (95% CI, 13.8 to 27.4) among those 15 to 17 years of age. In the pre-omicron study, the overall effectiveness of the 30-μg primary vaccine series against SARS-CoV-2 infection among adolescents was 87.6% (95% CI, 84.0 to 90.4) and waned relatively slowly after receipt of the second dose.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaccination in children was associated with modest, rapidly waning protection against omicron infection. Vaccination in adolescents was associated with stronger, more durable protection, perhaps because of the larger antigen dose. (Funded by Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar and others.)},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Abou-Saleh2022,

title = {Neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 are higher but decline faster in mRNA vaccinees compared to individuals with natural infection},

author = {Haissam Abou-Saleh Bushra Y Abo-Halawa Salma Younes Nadin Younes Duaa W Al-Sadeq Farah M Shurrab Na Liu Hamda Qotba Nader Al-Dewik Ahmed Ismail Hadi M Yassine Laith J Abu-Raddad Gheyath K Nasrallah, },

url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36342115/},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-11-07},

urldate = {2022-11-07},

journal = {Journal of Travel Medicine},

pages = {130},

abstract = {Background: Waning protection against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants by pre-existing antibodies elicited due to current vaccination or natural infection is a global concern. Whether this is due to the waning of immunity to SARS-COV-2 remains unclear.



Aim: We aimed to investigate the dynamics of antibody isotype responses among vaccinated naïve (VN) and naturally infected (NI) individuals.



Methods: We followed up antibody levels in COVID-19 mRNA-vaccinated subjects without prior infection (VN, n = 100) in two phases: phase-I (P-I) at ~ 1.4 and phase-II (P-II) at ~ 5.3 months. Antibody levels were compared to those of unvaccinated and naturally infected subjects (NI, n = 40) at ~ 1.7 (P-1) and 5.2 (P-II) months post-infection. Neutralizing antibodies (NTAb), anti-S-RBD-IgG, -IgM, and anti-S-IgA isotypes were measured.



Results: The VN group elicited significantly greater antibody responses (p < 0.001) than the NI group at P-I, except for IgM. In the VN group, a significant waning in antibody response was observed in all isotypes. There was about ~ a 4-fold decline in NTAb levels (p < 0.001), anti-S-RBD-IgG (~5-folds, p < 0.001), anti-S-RBD-IgM (~6-folds, p < 0.001), and anti-S1-IgA (2-folds, p < 0.001). In the NI group, a significant but less steady decline was notable in S-RBD-IgM (~2-folds, p < 0.001), and a much smaller but significant difference in NTAb (<2-folds, p < 0.001) anti-S-RBD IgG (<2-folds, p = 0.005). Unlike the VN group, the NI group mounted a lasting anti-S1-IgA response with no significant decline. Anti-S1-IgA, which were ~ 3 folds higher in VN subjects compared to NI in P-1 (p < 0.001), dropped to almost the same levels, with no significant difference observed between the two groups in P-II.



Conclusion: While double-dose mRNA vaccination boosted antibody levels, vaccinated individuals' 'boost' was relatively short-lived.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Chemaitelly2022c,

title = {Immune Imprinting and Protection against Repeat Reinfection with SARS-CoV-2},

author = {Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Patrick Tang Mohammad R Hasan Peter Coyle Hadi M Yassine Hebah A Al-Khatib Maria K Smatti Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar H Kaleeckal Ali N Latif Riyazuddin M Shaik Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed G Al-Kuwari Adeel A Butt Hamad E Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Laith J Abu-Raddad,},

url = {https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2211055},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-11-03},

urldate = {2022-11-03},

journal = {New England Journal of Medicine},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Nasarallah2022,

title = {Detection of Antinuclear Antibodies Targeting Intracellular Signal Transduction, Metabolism, Apoptotic Processes and Cell Death in Critical COVID-19 Patients},

author = {Gheyath K Nasarallah Aisha D Fakhroo Taushif Khan Farhan S Cyprian Fatima Al Ali Manar M A Ata Sara Taleb Hadeel T Zedan Duaa W Al-Sadeq Fathima H Amanullah Ali A Hssain Ali H Eid Laith J Abu-Raddad Abdullatif Al-Khal Asmaa A Al Thani Nico Marr Hadi M Yassine,},

url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36425144/},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-11-01},

urldate = {2022-11-01},

journal = {MEDITERRANEAN JOURNAL of HEMATOLOGY and INFECTIOUS DISEASES},

volume = {14},

abstract = {Background and objectives: The heterogeneity of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) lies within its diverse symptoms and severity, ranging from mild to lethal. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a leading cause of mortality in COVID-19 patients, characterized by a hyper cytokine storm. Autoimmunity is proposed to occur as a result of COVID-19, given the high similarity of the immune responses observed in COVID-19 and autoimmune diseases. Here, we investigate the level of autoimmune antibodies in COVID-19 patients with different severities.



Results: Initial screening for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) IgG using ELISA revealed that 1.58% (2/126) and 4% (5/126) of intensive care unit (ICU) COVID-19 cases expressed strong and moderate ANA levels, respectively. An additional sample was positive with immunofluorescence assays (IFA) screening. However, all the non-ICU cases (n=273) were ANA negative using both assays. Samples positive for ANA were further confirmed with large-scale autoantibody screening by phage immunoprecipitation-sequencing (PhIP-Seq). The majority of the ANA-positive samples showed "speckled" ANA pattern by microscopy and revealed autoantibody specificities that targeted proteins involved in intracellular signal transduction, metabolism, apoptotic processes, and cell death by PhIP-Seq; further denoting reactivity to nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens.



Conclusion: Our results further support the notion of routine screening for autoimmune responses in COVID-19 patients, which might help improve disease prognosis and patient management. Further, results provide compelling evidence that ANA-positive individuals should be excluded from being donors for convalescent plasma therapy in the context of COVID-19.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Altarawneh2022b,

title = {Protective Effect of Previous SARS-CoV-2 Infection against Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 Subvariants},

author = {Heba N. Altarawneh Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H. Ayoub Mohammad R. Hasan Peter Coyle Hadi M. Yassine Hebah A. Al-Khatib Maria K. Smatti Zaina Al-Kanaani Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Anvar H. Kaleeckal Ali N. Latif Riyazuddin M. Shaik Hanan F. Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K. Nasrallah Mohamed G. Al-Kuwari Adeel A. Butt Hamad E. Al-Romaihi Mohamed H. Al-Thani Abdullatif Al-Khal Roberto Bertollini Patrick Tang Laith J. Abu-Raddad,},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-10-27},

urldate = {2022-10-27},

journal = {New England Journal of Medicine},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Giordo2022,

title = {Cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-migratory activity of Pistacia lentiscus L . supercritical carbon dioxide extract on primary human endothelial cells},

author = {Roberta Giordo Annalisa Cossu Maria Cristina Porcu Roberto Cappuccinelli Grazia Biosa Javad Sharifi-Rad Luca Pretti Gheyath K Nasrallah Gianfranco Pintus Anna Maria Posadino,},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-10-06},

urldate = {2022-10-06},

journal = {Natural Product Research},

abstract = {Green chemistry is a useful tool for producing valuable chemicals from biomass. However, extracted compounds need to be tested for safety and efficacy before their use in humans. Here we investigate the chemical composition and biological effects of a leaves Pistacia lentiscus L. supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) extract. Terpenes represented the main extract fraction, with Germacrene D (11.18%), delta-cadinene (10.54%), and alpha-pinene (8.7%) the most abundant molecules. Challenged with endothelial cells (ECs), increasing extract concentrations failed to affect cell proliferation or promote cell toxicity. ROS assessment in unstressed and H2O2-treated ECs revealed an extract dose-dependent antioxidant activity. Exposition of H2O2-treated ECs to increasing extract concentrations dose-dependently counteracted H2O2-induced cell impairments. The extract significantly counteracted fetal calf serum-induced ECs migration. For the first time, we report that a SCCO2 extract obtained from PL leaves is safe on ECs and may be a useful source of valuable compounds with vasculoprotective properties.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Da'as2022,

title = {Transcriptome Profile Identifies Actin as an Essential Regulator of Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein C3 Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in a Zebrafish Model},

author = {Sahar Isa Da'as Waseem Hasan Rola Salem Nadine Younes Doua Abdelrahman Iman A Mohamed Arwa Aldaalis Ramzi Temanni Lisa Sara Mathew Stephan Lorenz Magdi Yacoub Michail Nomikos Gheyath K Nasrallah Khalid A Fakhro,},

url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36012114/},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-09-09},

urldate = {2022-09-09},

journal = {International Journal of Molecular Science},

abstract = {Variants in cardiac myosin-binding protein C (cMyBP-C) are the leading cause of inherited hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), demonstrating the key role that cMyBP-C plays in the heart's contractile machinery. To investigate the c-MYBPC3 HCM-related cardiac impairment, we generated a zebrafish mypbc3-knockout model. These knockout zebrafish displayed significant morphological heart alterations related to a significant decrease in ventricular and atrial diameters at systolic and diastolic states at the larval stages. Immunofluorescence staining revealed significant hyperplasia in the mutant's total cardiac and ventricular cardiomyocytes. Although cardiac contractility was similar to the wild-type control, the ejection fraction was significantly increased in the mypbc3 mutants. At later stages of larval development, the mutants demonstrated an early cardiac phenotype of myocardium remodeling, concurrent cardiomyocyte hyperplasia, and increased ejection fraction as critical processes in HCM initiation to counteract the increased ventricular myocardial wall stress. The examination of zebrafish adults showed a thickened ventricular cardiac wall with reduced heart rate, swimming speed, and endurance ability in both the mypbc3 heterozygous and homozygous groups. Furthermore, heart transcriptome profiling showed a significant downregulation of the actin-filament-based process, indicating an impaired actin cytoskeleton organization as the main dysregulating factor associated with the early ventricular cardiac hypertrophy in the zebrafish mypbc3 HCM model.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Qassim2022b,

title = {Effects of BA.1/BA.2 subvariant, vaccination, and prior infection on infectiousness of SARS-CoV-2 omicron infections},

author = {Suelen H Qassim Hiam Chemaitelly Houssein H Ayoub Sawsan AlMukdad Patrick Tang Mohammad R Hasan Hadi M Yassine Hebah A Al-Khatib Maria K Smatti Hanan F Abdul-Rahim Gheyath K Nasrallah Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Abdullatif Al-Khal Peter Coyle , Anvar Hassan Kaleeckal Riyazuddin Mohammad Shaik Ali Nizar Latif Einas Al-Kuwari Andrew Jeremijenko Adeel A Butt Roberto Bertollini Hamad Eid Al-Romaihi Mohamed H Al-Thani Laith J Abu-Raddad},

url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35639932/},

doi = {10.1093/jtm/taac068},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-09-07},

urldate = {2022-09-07},

journal = {Journal of Travel Medicine},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}