Phylodynamic signatures in the emergence of community-associated MRSA.

Community-associated, methicillin-resistant (MRSA) lineages have emerged in many geographically distinct regions around the world during the past 30 y. Here, we apply consistent phylodynamic methods across multiple community-associated MRSA lineages to describe and contrast their patterns of emergence and dissemination. We generated whole-genome sequencing data for the Australian sequence type (ST) ST93-MRSA-IV from remote communities in Far North Queensland and Papua New Guinea, and the Bengal Bay ST772-MRSA-V clone from metropolitan communities in Pakistan.

Distinct cause invasive disease in Papua New Guinea.

is a key contributor to childhood morbidity and mortality in Papua New Guinea (PNG). For the first time, whole genome sequencing of 174 isolates has enabled detailed characterisation of diverse causing invasive disease in young children in PNG, 1989-2014. This study captures the baseline population prior to the introduction of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) into the national childhood immunisation programme in 2014.

Phylodynamic Inference of Bacterial Outbreak Parameters Using Nanopore Sequencing.

Nanopore sequencing and phylodynamic modeling have been used to reconstruct the transmission dynamics of viral epidemics, but their application to bacterial pathogens has remained challenging. Cost-effective bacterial genome sequencing and variant calling on nanopore platforms would greatly enhance surveillance and outbreak response in communities without access to sequencing infrastructure. Here, we adapt random forest models for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) polishing developed by Sanderson and colleagues (2020.

Differences in Pneumococcal and Natural Antibody Development in Papua New Guinean Children in the First Year of Life.

Background: Development of vaccines to prevent disease and death from , and nontypeable (NTHi), the main pathogens that cause otitis media, pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis, are a global priority. Children living in low and lower-middle income settings are at the highest risk of contracting and dying from these diseases. Improved vaccines with broader coverage are required.