MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Acta Tropica' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:15:31 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644061&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22281243%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Soares MB, Silva CV, Bastos TM, Guimarães ET, Figueira CP, Smirlis D, Azevedo WF Abstract Inhibition of Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania spp. sirtuins has shown promising antiparasitic activity, indicating that these enzymes may be used as targets for drug discovery against trypanosomatid infections. In the present work we carried out a virtual screening focused on the C pocket of Sir2 from Trypanosoma cruzi. Using this approach, the best ligand found was nicotinamide. In vitro tests confirmed the anti-T. cruzi activity of nicotinamide on epimastigote and trypomastigote forms. Moreover, treatment of T. cruzi-infected macrophages with nicotinamide caused a significant reduction in the number of amastigotes. In addition, alterations in the mitochondria and an increase in t... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644061 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627025&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22266214%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wang MH, Wen YZ, Wei Y, Lai DH, Bengaly Z, Desquesnes M, Lun ZR Abstract Based on the sequence of mitogen-activated protein kinase 5 (TbMAPK5) gene, we have developed a specific PCR method which can delineate the species within the Trypanozoon subgenus from other parasites or host DNA conveniently. In view of further application in field studies, we performed loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) employing filter paper flecked with rodent blood. Our data showed that TbMAPK5-specific LAMP was sensitive enough to detect a very low parasitemia during the early stages of the infection and fluctuating parasitemia period, and is below the detection limit by microscope. The detection limit for the infected blood sample was 1000 trypanosomes/ml of blood. Based on these res... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627025 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5627025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627024&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22266215%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we immunized hamsters to protect against O. viverrini infection and the IL-4, IL-10, TGF-β and IFN-γ expression in spleen was investigated by real time PCR analysis. An O. viverrini-crude somatic antigen preparation (CSAg) administered with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) or with alum was used to stimulate immune responses in O. viverrini-primed hamsters. The greatest percent protection (48.4%) was seen following immunization with CSAg plus alum. The mean number±SD of worms recovered in the PBS control, CFA alone, CSAg plus CFA, alum alone and CSAg plus alum was 17.4±2.3, 17.1±3.3, 14.5±3.8, 14.5±2.3 and 9±2.7, respectively. Significant protection correlated with the reduction of TGF-β and IL-10, but not IL-4, IFN-γ expressions. Since TGF-β expression is signific... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627024 Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5627024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627026&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22266213%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Narayanasamy K, Chery L, Basu A, Duraisingh MT, Escalante A, Fowble J, Guler JL, Herricks T, Kumar A, Majumder P, Maki J, Mascarenhas A, Rodrigues J, Roy B, Sen S, Shastri J, Smith J, Valecha N, White J, Rathod PK Abstract The study of malaria parasites on the Indian subcontinent should help us understand unexpected disease outbreaks and unpredictable disease presentations from Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections. The Malaria Evolution in South Asia (MESA) research program is one of ten International Centers of Excellence for Malaria Research (ICEMR) sponsored by the US National Institutes of Health. In this second of two reviews, we describe why population structures of Plasmodia in India will be characterized and how we will determine their consequences... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627026 Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5627026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627027&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22266120%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: González-Vázquez MC, Carabarin-Lima A, Baylon-Pacheco L, Talamás-Rohana P, Rosales-Encina JL Abstract A 30-kDa surface collagen binding protein peroxiredoxin of Entamoeba histolytica (EhCBP30) was evaluated either alone or fused to the chaperone (CHP) or ATPase (ATP) domains of heat shock protein 70 of Trypanosoma cruzi (TcHSP70) as a vaccine candidate in a hamster model of experimental amoebic liver abscess (ALA) development. Three constructs were produced containing the EhCBP30 DNA sequence, one expressing EhCBP30 and two expressing EhCBP30 fused to either CHP or ATP domains of TcHSP70. High purity recombinant proteins rEhCBP30, rEhCBP30-CHP and rEhCBP30-ATP with N-terminal His tag were obtained by single step affinity purification. Hamsters were immunized without adj... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627027 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5627027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627033&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22266119%26dopt%3DAbstract We present here the sequences of large and small subunit rRNA (lsu and ssu rRNA) genes, sufB (ORF470) gene, RNA polymerase (rpo B, C) subunit genes and clpC (casienolytic protease) gene from the plastid genome of P. vivax. A comparative analysis of these genes between P. vivax and P. falciparum reveals approximately 5-16% differences. A codon usage analysis of major plastid genes has shown a high frequency of codons rich in A/T at any or all of the three positions in all the species. TTA, AAT, AAA, TAT, and ATA are the major preferred codons. The sequences, functional domains and structural analysis of respective proteins do not show any variations in the active sites. A comparative analysis of these Indian P. vivax plastid genome encoded genes has also been done to understand the evolutio... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627033 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5627033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607238&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22248527%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Latrofa MS, Weigl S, Dantas-Torres F, Annoscia G, Traversa D, Brianti E, Otranto D Abstract The present study reports the applicability of a multiplex PCR for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of common filarioids infecting dogs, i.e., Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens, Acanthocheilonema reconditum and Cercopithifilaria sp. Amplicons of different sizes (i.e., 170bp, 480bp, 590bp and 300bp, respectively) of regions within the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene were amplified on a single-step multiplex PCR using a mix of species-specific forward primers coupled with a single reverse primer. Experiments were carried out by amplifying genomic DNA extracted from blood or skin samples test-positive for microfilariae (mff). The number o... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607238 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607242&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22245147%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hanafi-Bojd AA, Vatandoost H, Oshaghi MA, Charrahy Z, Haghdoost AA, Zamani G, Abedi F, Sedaghat MM, Soltani M, Shahi M, Raeisi A Abstract Bashagard district is one of the important malaria endemic areas in southern Iran. From this region a total of 16,199 indigenous cases have been reported in recent years. The aim of this study was to determine the situation of the disease and provide the risk map for the area. ArcGIS9.2 was used for mapping spatial distribution of malaria incidence. Hot spots were obtained using evidence-based weighting method for transmission risk. Environmental factors including temperature, relative humidity, altitude, slope and distance to rivers were combined by weighted multi criteria evaluation for mapping malaria hazard area at the district level... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607242 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607241&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22245148%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Emukah E, Gutman J, Eguagie J, Miri ES, Yinkore P, Okocha N, Jibunor V, Obiageli N, Ikenna NA, Richards FO Abstract Nigeria is highly endemic for infection with Schistosoma haematobium, which most commonly manifests itself with blood in urine. To monitor the impact of annual mass drug administration (MDA) with Praziquantel for S. haematobium in Delta State, Nigeria, cross-sectional hematuria surveys of school children were conducted in 8 sentinel villages (SVs) at baseline (n=240) and after two annual doses (n=402). We assessed the comparability of three assessments of hematuria (child's reported history, nurse visual diagnosis (NVD) and dipstick) to determine the need for mass treatment. Dipstick was considered to be the gold standard. Prior to treatment, history and NVD ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607241 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607239&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22245668%26dopt%3DAbstract This study compared the efficacy against Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes of four regimens: amodiaquine-sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (AQ-SP) and mefloquine-artesunate (MQ-AS), with and without primaquine (PQ)administered with the second dose of the schizonticide (AQ-SP; AQ-SP-PQ; MQ-AS; MQ-AS-PQ). Efficacy was determined by thick smear on days 1, 4 and 8 after the beginning of treatment. A total of 82 patients (19-23/group) were recruited. After AQ-SP administration, gametocytemia steadily increased until day 8. With AQ-SP-PQ, a marked decline in gametocytemia was detected on days 4 and 8. MQ-AS treatment resulted in reduced gametocytemia on days 4 and 8, and with MQ-AS-PQ it was reduced even further. None of the treatments cleared gametocytemia by day 8. Currently, artemisinin-based combina... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607239 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607237&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22248528%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kumar A, Chery L, Biswas C, Dubhashi N, Dutta P, Dua VK, Kacchap M, Kakati S, Khandeparkar A, Kour D, Mahajan SN, Maji A, Majumder P, Mohanta J, Mohapatra PK, Narayanasamy K, Roy K, Shastri J, Valecha N, Vikash R, Wani R, White J, Rathod PK Abstract The "Malaria Evolution in South Asia" (MESA) program project is an International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research (ICEMR) sponsored by the US National Institutes of Health. This US-India collaborative project will study the origin of genetic diversity of malaria parasites and their selection in the Indian subcontinent. This knowledge should contribute to a better understanding of unexpected disease outbreaks and unpredictable disease presentations from Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections. In this firs... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607237 Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607240&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22245149%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we describe two modifications of a fluorescence microscopy assay based on immuno-magnetic separation (IMS) to detect leptospires in environmental water samples that mainly differ in fluorescent dye staining. The first type uses acridine orange fluorescent dye staining combined with multiplexed IMS for sample screening. The detection limit ranged from 10(2) to 10(3) organisms per mL and largely depended on the capture efficiency (CE) of the immuno-magnetic particles. The second type uses serogroup-specific immuno-particles and direct fluorescence antibody staining (DFA) to detect leptospires; the detection limit of this second assay was approximately 10(1) cells per mL. Both assay types were applied to natural and experimentally infected water samples, which were also analyse... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607240 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5580227&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22222185%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, a protocol for flow cytometric enumeration of rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei-infected red blood cells (RBC) stained with SYBR Green I was developed. The optimal concentration of SYBR Green I used to stain infected RBC was 4× for 30min. This SYBR Green I staining protocol in combination with the bi-dimensional FL-1(530)/FL-3(620) detection method accurately detects parasitemia above 0.02%. The dye is stable during the prolonged incubation period necessary for accurate enumeration of parasitemia, with no loss of fluorescent signal over a period of hours. This protocol was validated in an antimalarial assay and the result was comparable to that obtained from conventional microscopic counting. The SYBR Green I flow cytometric protocol is thus a rapid and precise too... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5580227 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5580227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5568727&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22212465%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Díaz-Chiguer DL, Márquez-Navarro A, Nogueda-Torres B, de la Luz León-Ávila G, Pérez-Villanueva J, Hernández-Campos A, Castillo R, Ambrosio JR, Nieto-Meneses R, Yépez-Mulia L, Hernández-Luis F Abstract The trypanocidal effect of five benzimidazole derivatives (1-5) was determined in vitro and in vivo assays against two strains of Trypanosoma cruzi (NINOA and INC5). The in vitro trypanocidal activity was evaluated by measuring the percentage of lysis of bloodstream trypomastigotes of T. cruzi. Results point to 5-chloro-1H-benzimidazole-2-thiol (1) as the best activity profile compound with a 50% lytic concentration (LC(50)) of 0.014mM (NINOA strain) and 0.32mM (INC5 strain). Reference drugs were nifurtimox (Nfx) and benznidazole (Bnz), which on NINOA strain displayed... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5568727 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5568727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5568728&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22210440%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Almeida CE, Oliveira HL, Correia N, Dornak LL, Gumiel M, Neiva VL, Harry M, Mendonça VJ, Costa J, Galvão C Abstract Flight dispersion is recognized as one of the most important mechanisms for triatomine house infestation. Triatoma sherlocki and Triatoma juazeirensis are closely related species that occur within the same ecotope and their possible reproductive boundaries are unknown. T. sherlocki has shorter wings than T. juazeirensis; a characteristic that possibly implies in reduced flight dispersion, however, this species has been found to invade and colonize homes in Bahia, Brazil. Here, we tested the flight potential of T. sherlocki, compared to that of T. juazeirensis and laboratory-bred hybrids. Insects were kept in an apparatus designed to distinguish flyers from ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5568728 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5568728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5568729&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22210439%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, tribendimidine and dADT show potent anti-hookworm properties. The potential of the promising tribendimidine-levamisole combination should be investigated in greater detail. PMID: 22210439 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5568729 Sat, 24 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5568729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5552894&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22198240%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kim CH, Muturi EJ Abstract The role of toxic component of leaf litter in mediating the outcome of mosquito species interactions is not well documented. To examine the effect of leaf litter toxins on mosquito performance and interspecific interactions, we reared monospecific and heterospecific cultures of Aedes aegypti L. and Aedes albopictus Skuse larvae in microcosms with one of five leaf species and measured the expression of five cytochrome P450 genes and life history traits of the two mosquito species. For both mosquito species, survival to adulthood was significantly higher in black alder, black walnut, and cypress infusion compared to sugar maple and eastern white pine infusion. In pine but not in other leaf treatments, the presence of A. albopictus had significant p... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5552894 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5552894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5552893&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22198241%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Yaro AS, Touré AM, Guindo A, Coulibaly MB, Dao A, Diallo M, Traoré SF Abstract Malaria parasites stages prior to sporozoite formation are known to affect the fecundity of several species of mosquitoes in the laboratory, but little is known about this phenomenon in natural conditions especially with sporozoite-infected anophelines. The reproductive success of wild-caught Anopheles arabiensis and the M and S molecular forms of Anopheles gambiae was investigated by comparing females infected with Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites to females free of sporozoites. Association between sporozoite-infected females' body size and their egg batch size was also measured. There was no significant reduction in egg production due to sporozoite infection among wild females An. arabiensi... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5552893 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5552893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5552895&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22197318%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rohoušová I, Volfová V, Nová S, Volf P Abstract Pooled salivary gland samples are frequently used to ensure the sufficient amount of material for the experiments; however, this could mask an individual variability. Thus, we compared salivary protein profiles in seven colonies of three Phlebotomus species: Phlebotomus sergenti, Phlebotomus perniciosus, and Phlebotomus papatasi. Surprisingly, the individual profiles differed significantly between the colonies as well as between individuals. The highest variability was observed in proteins with molecular masses of 42-46kDa corresponding to the yellow-related proteins. The phenogram constructed from salivary gland profiles revealed the existence of two main groups in P. sergenti, corresponding well with the geographical or... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5552895 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5552895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538846&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22182668%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Volkman SK, Ndiaye D, Diakite M, Koita O, Nwakanma D, Daniels R, Park D, Neafsey D, Muskavitch M, Krogstad D, Sabeti P, Hartl D, Wirth D Abstract Success of the global research agenda toward eradication of malaria will depend on development of new tools, including drugs, vaccines, insecticides and diagnostics. Genomic information, now available for the malaria parasites, their mosquito vectors, and human host, can be leveraged to both develop these tools and monitor their effectiveness. Although knowledge of genomic sequences for the malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, have helped advance our understanding of malaria biology, simply knowing this sequence information has not yielded a plethora of new interventions to reduce the burden of malaria. ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538846 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5538846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538845&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22192594%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Botto-Mahan C, Bacigalupo A, Correa JP, Oda E, Solari A Abstract Chagas disease is a zoonosis caused by the flagellated parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and transmitted by triatomine insects to several mammalian species acting as reservoir hosts. In the present study, we assess T. cruzi-prevalence, survivorship and T. cruzi-infection rate of the endemic rodent Octodon degus from a hyper-endemic area of Chagas disease in Chile. Parasite detection is performed by PCR assays on blood samples of individuals captured in austral summer of 2010, and on non-infected individuals recaptured in 2011 as well as on new captures. Results show a high infection level in this species (up to 70%). Infected O. degus have the same chance of surviving to the next reproductive season as uninfected in... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538845 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5538845 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538851&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22178449%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gómez-Marín JE, de-la-Torre A, Barrios P, Cardona N, Alvarez C, Herrera C Abstract Tropical diseases, mainly leishmaniasis and malaria, increased among Colombian military personnel due to intensive operations in the jungle in the last ten years; as a result the Colombian army developed important preventive strategies for malaria and leishmaniasis. However, no knowledge exists about toxoplasmosis, an emergent disease in military personnel. We compared the prevalence of IgG anti-Toxoplasma antibodies by ELISA and of parasitaemia by a real time PCR assay, in 500 professional soldiers that operated in the jungle with a group of 501 soldiers working in an urban zone (Bogotá). We found that the prevalence was significantly different between both groups of soldiers (80% in sol... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538851 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5538851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538850&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22178674%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Santos FP, Lopes J, Vilas-Bôas GT, Zequi JA Abstract Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) is the vector of dengue virus in Brazil. Bioinsecticides based on Bacillus thuringiensis have shown satisfactory results in the control of Diptera, due to the production of proteins called Cry and Cyt. The aim of the present study was to select B. thuringiensis isolates carrying the cry and cyt genes, which are efficient in the control of Ae. aegypti. A collection of 27 isolates of B. thuringiensis, derived from various regions in Brazil, was evaluated using selective bioassays against A. aegypti larvae. Of the 27 isolates, five showed 100% larval mortality at a concentration of 0.05ppm and the toxicity of these isolates in quantitative bioassays did not differ significantly at temperatures of 1... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538850 Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5538850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538849&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22178675%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Conchedda M, Seu V, Capra S, Caredda A, Pani SP, Lochi PG, Collu C, Mura A, Gabriele F Abstract The epidemiological status of cystic echinococcosis (CE) in sheep in Sardinia over the 20 years since the last control attempt at the end of the 1980s has been assessed, comparing the results of two surveys carried out in abattoirs in southern Sardinia. In the first, conducted in 1995-1997 (5-7 years after the last control effort), CE prevalence of about 75% was observed in the 1375 sheep sampled, with intensity of 10.0 and mean abundance of 7.5. The most affected organ was the liver, whereas a large percentage of infected animals presented cysts in both the liver and lung. Overall, about 26% of parasitized sheep were found to be heavily infected and 12.15% of infected animals h... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538849 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5538849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516298&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22172595%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, although GM is the best method for eradication of enterobiasis, providing health information about enterobiasis to parents could reduce the prevalence, as well as the rate of new infection or re-infection with E. vermicularis in their children. PMID: 22172595 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516298 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516298 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516299&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22155571%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pulido SA, Muñoz DL, Restrepo AM, Mesa CV, Alzate JF, Velez ID, Robledo SM Abstract Development of new therapeutic approaches for leishmaniasis treatment requires new high throughput screening methodologies for the antileishmanial activity of the new compounds both in vitro and in vivo. Reporter genes as the GFP have become one of the most promissory and widely used tools for drug screening in several models, since it offers live imaging, high sensibility, specificity and flexibility; additionally, the use of GFP as a reporter gene in screening assays eliminates all the drawbacks presented in conventional assays and also those technical problems found using other reporter genes. The utility of the GFP as a reporter gene in drug screening assays with Leishmania parasites d... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516299 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516299 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516300&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22155570%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Luz C, Rodrigues J, Rocha LF Abstract Entomopathogenic fungi, especially Metarhizium anisopliae, have potential for integrated control of peridomestic triatomine bugs. However, the high susceptibility of these vectors to fungal infection at elevated ambient humidities decreases in the comparatively dry conditions that often prevail in their microhabitats. A formulation adapted to this target pest that induces high and quick mortality can help to overcome these drawbacks. In the present study diatomaceous earth, which is used against pests of stored grains or as an additive to mycoinsecticides, delayed but did not reduce in vitro germination of M. anisopliae s.l. IP 46 conidia after >24h agitation without affecting viability, and did not hamper the survival of Triatoma i... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516300 Sun, 04 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516300 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516315&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22154880%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Trevennec K, Grosbois V, Roger F, Ho TH, Berthouly-Salazar C, Chevalier V Abstract Swine influenza is responsible for one of the most prevalent disease affecting the swine industry worldwide. Epidemiological surveys rarely focus on remote areas, because traditional farming systems characterized by locally consumed production and low pig densities are considered as having little influence on the emergence, re-emergence, persistence or spread of swine influenza viruses. In addition, routine disease investigations in remote areas are often neglected due to logistic and economical constraints. A bank of swine sera collected in 2005 in the ethnic minorities households of Ha Giang province (Northern Vietnam) located adjacent to the Chinese border was analyzed to estimate the ser... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516315 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516316&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22154879%26dopt%3DAbstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of alpha-cypermethrin treated nets in settings where insecticides are used against pests. This was assessed in two ways, i.e. under laboratory conditions using the WHO standard cones test technique and in experimental huts, on Anopheles gambiae s.l. collected in two Malian rural sites, Koumantou characterised by cotton crops and high insecticide use and Sélingué, a rice field area with low insecticide use. According to the WHO standard cones test technique, there was no difference between mosquitoes collected in the two sites; KD50 time was less than 3min and the KD95 time below 30min. Nevertheless, in the experimental huts with alpha-cypermethrin treated bed nets, the mosquito mortality rate was significantly lower in Koumantou (1... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516316 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516312&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22154881%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ballart C, Barón S, Alcover MM, Portús M, Gállego M Abstract During July 2007 sand fly captures were carried out in Andorra using sticky castor oil traps set in sand fly resting places for four consecutive nights. The sampling stations were located between 800 and 2400m above sea level. The specimens captured belong to two species of the genus Phlebotomus subgenus Larroussius, Phlebotomus ariasi and Phlebotomus perniciosus. The results shed new light on the wide geographical and altitudinal distribution of P. ariasi in Andorra, where it was located between 800 and 2200m a.s.l. The study also identified P. perniciosus in Andorra for the first time, with captures below 1000m a.s.l. The finding of these species, both proven vectors of human and canine leishmaniasis in the ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516312 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516305&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22155061%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fernández MS, Lestani EA, Cavia R, Salomón OD Abstract Phlebotominae sand flies have been involved as vectors of Leishmania. In Argentina, Nyssomyia neivai and Nyssomyia whitmani are involved as the main vectors of American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis (ATL). In the northeastern border of the country, an outbreak of ATL during 2004-2005 was associated with deforestation and subsequent settlement of farmers close to the edge of the forest. The aim of this work was to study the community composition of sand flies along time in farms located near primary and secondary forest in two environments: houses and pigsties. The association of abundance with temperature and precipitation was also evaluated for the most prevalent species. A total of 23,659 Phlebotominae belonging to the... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516305 Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516319&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22142788%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Das A, Anvikar AR, Cator LJ, Dhiman RC, Eapen A, Mishra N, Nagpal BN, Nanda N, Raghavendra K, Read AF, Sharma SK, Singh OP, Singh V, Sinnis P, Srivastava HC, Sullivan SA, Sutton PL, Thomas MB, Carlton JM, Valecha N Abstract Malaria is a major public health problem in India and one which contributes significantly to the overall malaria burden in Southeast Asia. The National Vector Borne Disease Control Program of India reported ∼1.6 million cases and ∼1100 malaria deaths in 2009. Some experts argue that this is a serious underestimation and that the actual number of malaria cases per year is likely between 9 and 50 times greater, with an approximate 13-fold underestimation of malaria-related mortality. The difficulty in making these estimations is further exacerbated by... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516319 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516318&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22142789%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stensgaard AS, Utzinger J, Vounatsou P, Hürlimann E, Schur N, Saarnak CF, Simoonga C, Mubita P, Kabatereine NB, Tchuenté LA, Rahbek C, Kristensen TK Abstract The geographical ranges of most species, including many infectious disease agents and their vectors and intermediate hosts, are assumed to be constrained by climatic tolerances, mainly temperature. It has been suggested that global warming will cause an expansion of the areas potentially suitable for infectious disease transmission. However, the transmission of infectious diseases is governed by a myriad of ecological, economic, evolutionary and social factors. Hence, a deeper understanding of the total disease system (pathogens, vectors and hosts) and its drivers is important for predicting responses to climate cha... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516318 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516317&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22142790%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Doumbia SO, Ndiaye D, Koita OA, Diakité M, Nwakanma D, Coulibaly M, Traoré SF, Keating J, Milner DA, Ndiaye JL, Sene PD, Ahouidi A, Dieye TN, Gaye O, Okebe J, Ceesay SJ, Ngwa A, Oriero EC, Konaté L, Sy N, Jawara M, Faye O, Kéita M, Cissé M, Sogoba N, Poudiougou B, Diawara S, Sangaré L, Coulibaly T, Seck I, Abubakar I, Gomis J, Mather FJ, Sissako A, Diarra A, Kandeh B, Whalen C, Moyer B, Nnedu O, Thiero O, Bei AK, Daniels R, Miura K, Long CA, Fairhurst RM, Duraisingh M, Muskavitch MA, D'Alessandro U, Conway DJ, Volkman SK, Valim C, Wirth DF, Krogstad DJ Abstract With the paradigm shift from the reduction of morbidity and mortality to the interruption of transmission, the focus of malaria control broadens from symptomatic infections in children ≤5 years of age to inc... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516317 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516320&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22138145%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vinauger C, Pereira MH, Lazzari CR Abstract It has been largely assumed that the individual experience of disease vector insects may affect host choice and, as a consequence, have an important influence on parasite transmission. In particular, it is speculated that vector insects should be able to learn and remember the most and/or less defensive hosts, shifting their preference accordingly. Nevertheless, despite the invested efforts in testing the capacity to learn and remember information of blood-sucking insects, only little conclusive information has been obtained hitherto. Recently, the ability of Rhodnius prolixus to associate a behaviourally neutral odour to the perspective of either obtaining a blood-meal or being punished has been demonstrated, the same odour beco... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516320 Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5463470&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22119584%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cessay SJ, Bojang KA, Nwakanma D, Conway DJ, Koita OA, Doumbia SO, Ndiaye D, Coulibaly TF, Diakité M, Traoré SF, Coulibaly M, Ndiaye JL, Sarr O, Gaye O, Konaté L, Sy N, Faye B, Faye O, Sogoba N, Jawara M, Dao A, Poudiougou B, Diawara S, Okebe J, Sangaré L, Abubakar I, Sissako A, Diarra A, Kéita M, Kandeh B, Long CA, Fairhurst RM, Duraisingh M, Perry R, Muskavitch MA, Valim C, Volkman SK, Wirth DF, Krogstad DJ Abstract The study sites for the West African ICEMR are in three countries (The Gambia, Senegal, Mali) and are located within 750km of each other. In addition, the National Malaria Control Programmes of these countries have virtually identical policies: (1) Artemisinin Combination Therapies (ACTs) for the treatment of symptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infection, ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5463470 Sat, 19 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5463470 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5463471&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22118982%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of CQ resistant parasites in Mwanza, Tanzania is low compared to the existing high level of resistant parasites in Iganga, Uganda. This could be an indication that CQ may become useful in the future in Tanzania. This study shows clearly that there is a difference in mutations at these positions in these two countries implementing similar but somewhat different drug policies. In Uganda the drug resistance has reached fixation while in Tanzania the prevalence is going down. PMID: 22118982 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5463471 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5463471 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5446581&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22100446%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chuquiyauri R, Paredes M, Peñataro P, Torres S, Marin S, Tenorio A, Brouwer KC, Abeles S, Llanos-Cuentas A, Gilman RH, Kosek M, Vinetz JM Abstract This analysis presents a comprehensive description of malaria burden and risk factors in Peruvian Amazon villages where malaria transmission is hypoendemic. More than 9000 subjects were studied in contrasting village settings within the Department of Loreto, Peru, where most malaria occurs in the country. Plasmodium vivax is responsible for more than 75% of malaria cases; severe disease from any form of malaria is uncommon and death rare. The association between lifetime malaria episodes and individual and household covariates was studied using polychotomous logistic regression analysis, assessing effects on odds of some vs. no... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5446581 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5446581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5446579&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22100545%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Abdul-Ghani R, Al-Mekhlafi AM Abstract Microbial applications in malaria transmission control have drawn global attention. Mosquito midgut microbiota can modulate vector immunity and block Plasmodium development. Paratransgenic manipulation of bacterial symbionts and Wolbachia can affect reproductive characteristic of mosquitoes. Bacillus-based biolarvicides can control mosquito larvae in different breeding habitats, but their effectiveness differs according to the type of formulation applied, and the physical and ecological conditions of the environment. Entomopathogenic fungi show promise as effective and evolution-proof agents against adult mosquitoes. In addition, transgenic fungi can express anti-plasmodial effector molecules that can target the parasite inside its ve... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5446579 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5446579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5446578&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22100546%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wilson ML, Walker ED, Mzilahowa T, Mathanga DP, Taylor TE Abstract Malaria control in the impoverished, highly endemic settings of sub-Saharan Africa remains a major public health challenge. Successes have been achieved only where sustained, concerted, multi-pronged interventions have been instituted. As one of the world's poorest countries, Malawi experiences malaria incidence rates that have remained high despite a decade of gradually expanding and more intensive prevention efforts. The Malawi International Center for Excellence in Malaria Research (ICEMR) is beginning work to augment the knowledge base for reducing Plasmodium transmission and malaria morbidity and mortality. Among ICEMR goals, we intend to better assess patterns of infection and disease, and analyze tra... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5446578 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5446578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5446580&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22100540%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kane RA, Stothard JR, Rollinson D, Leclipteux T, Evraerts J, Standley CJ, Allan F, Betson M, Kaba R, Mertens P, Laurent T Abstract Several DNA probes were designed for use in real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays to target sequence variation within the ribosomal intergenic spacer (IGS) of schistosomes. A sub-section of the IGS (∼300bp) was amplified, with cross-specific primers, after which group-specific fluorescent, locked nucleic acid probes were assessed for their ability to differentiate and quantify DNA from Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni group parasites. A number of fluorescent probe candidates were screened and validated against genomic DNA from adult schistosome worms and laboratory infected freshwater snails. Two fluorescent, locked ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5446580 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5446580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428114&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22085916%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Carlier Y, Truyens C, Deloron P, Peyron F Abstract This review defines the concepts of maternal-fetal (congenital) and vertical transmissions (mother-to-child) of pathogens and specifies the human parasites susceptible to be congenitally transferred. It highlights the epidemiological features of this transmission mode for the three main congenital parasitic infections due to Toxoplasma gondii, Trypanosoma cruzi and Plasmodium sp. Information on the possible maternal-fetal routes of transmission, the placental responses to infection and timing of parasite transmission are synthesized and compared. The factors susceptible to be involved in parasite transmission and development of congenital parasitic diseases, such as the parasite genotypes, the maternal co-infections and pa... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428114 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5428114 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428116&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22079375%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Akhoundi M, Parvizi P, Baghai A, Depaquit J Abstract Phlebotomine sandflies of the subgenus Adlerius (Diptera: Psychodidae) includes 20 described species and two unnamed from Afghanistan. The female sandflies of this subgenus are considered as indistinguishable morphologically and their identification is based on the identification of associated males. Some species of Adlerius are suspected vectors of visceral leishmaniasis and at least one species has been implicated as a vector of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Four species of Adlerius have been recorded in Iran in the past: P. brevis Theodor and Mesghali, 1964, P. halepensis Theodor, 1958, P. longiductus Parrot, 1928 and P. balcanicus Theodor, 1958. The present study based on a field work carried out all over Iran reports two... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428116 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5428116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428115&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22079376%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maeda FY, Cortez C, Alves RM, Yoshida N Abstract Protozoan parasites of the genus Trypanosoma can infect virtually all mammalian species. Within this genus, Trypanosoma dionisii from bats and Trypanosoma cruzi that causes Chagas' disease, belonging to the subgenus Schizotrypanum, can invade mammalian cells. The mechanisms of cell invasion by T. dionisii are poorly understood. To address that question, metacyclic trypomastigotes (MT) and human epithelial HeLa cells were used. Similarly to genetically divergent T. cruzi strains G (TcI) and CL (TcVI), associated, respectively with marsupial and human infections, T. dionisii infectivity increased under nutritional stress, a condition that induces host cell lysosome exocytosis required for parasite internalization. For efficien... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428115 Sun, 06 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5428115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428119&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22074685%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Chavshin AR, Oshaghi MA, Vatandoost H, Pourmand MR, Raeisi A, Enayati AA, Mardani N, Ghoorchian S Abstract To describe the midgut microbial diversity and to find the candidate bacteria for the genetic manipulation for the generation of paratransgenic Anopheline mosquitoes refractory to transmission of malaria, the microbiota of wild larvae and adult Anopheles stephensi mosquito midgut from southern Iran was studied using a conventional cell-free culture technique and analysis of a 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequence library. Forty species in 12 genera including seven Gram-negative Myroides, Chryseobacterium, Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Enterobacter and Shewanella and five Gram-positive Exiguobacterium, Enterococcus, Kocuria, Microbacterium and Rhodococcus bacter... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428119 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5428119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428117&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22079374%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Biéler S, Matovu E, Mitashi P, Ssewannyana E, Bi Shamamba SK, Bessell PR, Ndung'u JM Abstract Confirmatory diagnosis of African trypanosomiasis relies on demonstration of parasites in body fluids by bright field microscopy. The parasitaemia in infected patients and animals is usually low, and concentration methods are used to try and increase the chances of seeing parasites. Recently, fluorescence microscopes using light-emitting diodes (LED) have been developed. Since they emit strong light, their use does not require a dark room, making field application a possibility. We have combined LED fluorescence microscopy with lysis of red blood cells (RBC) to improve the sensitivity and speed of detecting trypanosomes. In studies conducted at four centers in Uganda and the Demo... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428117 Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5428117 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428120&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22062047%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Abdel Aaty HE, Abdel-Hameed DM, Alam-Eldin YH, El-Shennawy SF, Aminou HA, Makled SS, Darweesh SK Abstract Despite, Egypt is started to be considered as an emerging endemic area for cystic echinococcosis (CE), no enough data in the literature about the exact status of the genotype in both animals and humans. Therefore, the present study aims to characterize the underlying genotypes that could be responsible for the transmission cycle and for the growing infectivity. Animal isolates were collected from 47 camels and 6 pigs. Human isolates are 31 CE cases including; 21 of hepatic cases, 5 of pulmonary cases and 5 multiple-organ affection cases. Hot-Start specific PCR followed by DNA sequencing for mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene, revealed G1 genotype in one (3.2%) of 31 human iso... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428120 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5428120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428118&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22074686%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Li JJ, Zhang RL, Fu YC, Wu WP, Chen MX, Geng YJ, Huang DN, Ai L, Yang F, Hu Z Abstract Each of BALB/c mice was infected with 50 Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae. One group of mice received an intraperitoneal injection of 50μg 12D5 monoclonal antibody (mAb) against a 98kDa antigen of adult worms at 10 days post-infection (dpi), with a booster injection of 25μg at 12dpi. Five mice from each group were sacrificed at 14dpi for pathological examination and RNA extraction. The infiltration of eosinophils and severity of eosinophilic meningitis were reduced in 12D5 mAb-treated mice compared with the infected mice without 12D5 treatment. The levels of eotaxin mRNA expression in spleen significantly increased and the expression of the Th2-type cytokine IL-5 significantly decrea... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428118 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5428118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383386&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22041638%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, GIS and RS technologies, as well as meteorological, social, and environmental variables were utilized for the modeling and prediction of ascariasis and trichuriasis. The GIS and RS technologies specifically used were those produced by orbital sensing including the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). The results of this study demonstrated important factors related to the transmission of ascariasis and trichuriasis and confirmed the key association between environmental variables and the poverty index, which enabled us to identify priority areas for intervention planning in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil. PMID: 22041638 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383386 Fri, 21 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383387&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22037200%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gurgel-Gonçalves R, Cura C, Schijman AG, Cuba CA Abstract To determine the infestation and trypanosome infection of triatomines captured in Mauritia flexuosa palm trees across its geographic distribution in the Brazilian savanna (Cerrado), we sampled 42 localities in eight states and in the Federal District, Brazil, between July 2005 and January 2010. Overall, 2154 specimens of the species Rhodnius neglectus, Psammolestes tertius, Triatoma sordida, and Microtriatoma borbai, were collected. Among the 341 palms sampled, 182 (53.3%) were infested with R. neglectus, which resulted in the capture of 1639 specimens (9.0 insects per infested palm). P. tertius occurred in 26 palms (8%), which resulted in the capture of 484 specimens (19 insects per infested palm). T. sordida (n=3... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383387 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383388&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22023732%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we investigated the effect of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) on Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) egg-induced liver fibrosis. S. japonicum cercariae infected mice were injected with poly I:C at the onset of egg granuloma formation (early phase poly I:C treatment) or after the formation of liver fibrosis (late phase poly I:C treatment). Our results showed that both early and late phase poly I:C treatment significantly reduced collagen deposition and hepatic stellate cell activation in the liver. Poly I:C is one of the most effective adjuvants for Th1 type responses, and its protective effect on liver fibrosis was accompanied by increased IFN-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, IL-12, TNF-α, and IL-10 mRNA expression, and decreased IL-4 and IL-5 mRNA expression. Moreover, poly... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383388 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383388 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383391&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22019933%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Schur N, Hürlimann E, Stensgaard AS, Chimfwembe K, Mushinge G, Simoonga C, Kabatereine NB, Kristensen TK, Utzinger J, Vounatsou P Abstract Schistosomiasis remains one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases in the tropics and subtropics, but current statistics are outdated due to demographic and ecological transformations and ongoing control efforts. Reliable risk estimates are important to plan and evaluate interventions in a spatially explicit and cost-effective manner. We analysed a large ensemble of georeferenced survey data derived from an open-access neglected tropical diseases database to create smooth empirical prevalence maps for Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium for a total of 13 countries of eastern Africa. Bayesian geostatistical models based on... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383391 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383389&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22019935%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Butters MP, Kobylinski KC, Deus KM, da Silva IM, Gray M, Sylla M, Foy BD Abstract Laboratory and field studies have shown that ivermectin, a drug that targets invertebrate ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs), is potently active against Anopheles spp. mosquitoes at concentrations present in human blood after standard drug administrations; thus ivermectin holds promise as a mass human-administered endectocide that could help suppress malaria parasite transmission. We evaluated other systemic LGIC-targeting drugs for their activities against the African malaria vector Anopheles gambiae using in vitro blood feeding assays. Eprinomectin, selamectin, moxidectin, and N-tert-butyl nodulisporamide were evaluated as potentially systemic drugs having similar modes of action to ivermect... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383389 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383395&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22015423%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Coutinho CF, Souza-Santos R, Lima MM Abstract The use of geo-spatial analysis to anticipate transmission risk for Chagas disease was tested in a rural area of northeast Brazil in an approach that combined geo-referencing and exploratory study of triatomine infestation, including related elements such as the environment and hosts. A total of 617 triatomine specimens, mainly Triatoma brasiliensis, were captured, exhibiting an overall T. cruzi positivity of 44.4%. Layer analysis indicated that the greatest transmission risk to man was associated with woodpiles. The buffer area generated contained uninhabited dwellings teeming with bats and positive bugs. Other locations outside the buffer, near uninhabited dwellings housing cattle, contained colonies of triatomines harboring ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383395 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383394&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22015424%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Fujita M, Kato H, Cáceres AG, Gomez EA, Velez L, Mimori T, Zhang F, Iwata H, Korenaga M, Sakurai T, Katakura K, Hashiguchi Y Abstract Genotyping of sand fly species circulating in Peru was established on the basis of PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) of the 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. The sequences of 18S rRNA gene fragments from 12 Lutzomyia and 1 Warileya species were determined and their RFLP-patterns were analyzed. Consequently, RFLP analysis with the restriction enzyme AfaI and then HapII or KpnI, followed by XspI successfully differentiated them. Intraspecific genetic diversity affecting RFLP-patterns was not detected in the specimens collected from 24 areas of 8 departments. The genotyping was applied to the surveillance of sand flies collect... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383394 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383393&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22015425%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: da Silva-Nunes M, Moreno M, Conn JE, Gamboa D, Abeles S, Vinetz JM, Ferreira MU Abstract Across the Americas and the Caribbean, nearly 561,000 slide-confirmed malaria infections were reported officially in 2008. The nine Amazonian countries accounted for 89% of these infections; Brazil and Peru alone contributed 56% and 7% of them, respectively. Local populations of the relatively neglected parasite Plasmodium vivax, which currently accounts for 77% of the regional malaria burden, are extremely diverse genetically and geographically structured. At a time when malaria elimination is placed on the public health agenda of several endemic countries, it remains unclear why malaria proved so difficult to control in areas of relatively low levels of transmission such as the Amazo... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383393 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383393 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383392&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22015426%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Githeko AK, Ototo EN, Guiyun Y Abstract Following severe malaria epidemics in the western Kenya highlands after the late 1980s it became imperative to undertake eco-epidemiological assessments of the disease and determine its drivers, spatial-temporal distribution and control strategies. Extensive research has indicated that the major biophysical drivers of the disease are climate change and variability, terrain, topography, hydrology and immunity. Vector distribution is focalized at valley bottoms and abundance is closely related with drainage efficiency, habitat availability, stability and productivity of the ecosystems. Early epidemic prediction models have been developed and they can be used to assess climate risks that warrant extra interventions with a lead time of 2... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383392 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383392 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383390&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22019934%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSIONS: CE has a significant burden in this part of Romania, and continues to be a public health concern. Consequently, better implementation of preventive measures and extensive informative campaigns for the population are mandatory. PMID: 22019934 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383390 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383390 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383397&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21996622%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Zeile I, Gahutu JB, Shyirambere C, Steininger C, Musemakweri A, Sebahungu F, Karema C, Harms G, Eggelte TA, Mockenhaupt FP Abstract In Rwanda, frequent mutations in the pfdhfr and pfdhps genes of Plasmodium falciparum have suggested intense sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance. However, data on pfmdr1 are not available but might be important in the context of the first-line treatment with artemether-lumefantrine. During a survey among 749 children under five years of age in southern highland Rwanda, 104 P. falciparum isolates were obtained. Parasite polymorphisms associated with drug sensitivity were typed including the genes pfdhfr, pfdhps, pfmdr1, and pfcrt. Plasma concentrations of chloroquine and pyrimethamine were measured by ELISA. Treatment with artemether-lumefantr... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383397 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383397 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383396&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22001304%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, the present findings suggest that in Iran, SP is still effective for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria as a partner drug of Artemisinin Combination Therapy (ACT) in this region. PMID: 22001304 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383396 Sun, 02 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383398&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21986365%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Martins TM, do Rosário VE, Domingos A Abstract BbiCPL1 was the first papain-like cysteine protease from a piroplasm to be identified with proteolytic activity. Here we report the improved production of the active recombinant enzyme, and the biochemical characterization of this potential drug target. BbiCPL1 showed characteristic properties of its class, including hydrolysis of papain-family peptide substrates, an acidic pH optimum, requirement of a reducing environment for maximum activity, and inhibition by standard cysteine protease inhibitors such as E-64, leupeptin, ALLN and cystatin. The optimum pH for the protease activity against peptide substrates was 5.5, but enzymatic activity was observed between pH 4.0 and pH 9.0. At slightly basic pH 7.5, BbiCPL1 maintained 8... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383398 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5383399&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21982798%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we examined the genetic diversity of P. falciparum isolates from the Artibonite Valley in Haiti using the allelic families of merozoite surface protein 1 and 2 genes (msp-1 and msp-2). The majority of study subjects infected with P. falciparum had a single parasite genotype (56% for msp-1 and 69% for msp-2: n=79); 9 distinct msp-1 genotypes were identified by size differences on agarose gels. K1 was the most polymorphic allelic family with 5 genotypes (amplicons from 100 to 300 base pairs [bp]); RO33 was the least polymorphic, with a single genotype (120-bp). Although both msp-2 alleles (3D7/IC1, FC27) had similar number of genotypes (n=4), 3D7/IC1 was more frequent (85% vs. 26%). All samples were screened for the presence of the K76T mutation on the P. falciparum chloroquin... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5383399 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5383399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5284210&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21964408%26dopt%3DAbstract This report aims to bring new information regarding 2 foci of trichinellosis that occurred in the winter of 2011 in a western Romanian region. Data were collected from the outbreak reports and hospitalization documents of the patients diagnosed with this condition. Of 22 patients admitted to hospitals, the medical records were available in 20 cases. The mean age of the study group was 37.4±13.6 years (range: 3-56) with most of them (n=7; 35%) aged 30-39 years old. The majority of the patients (n=19; 95%) were adults (≥18 years old), males (n=13; 65%) and rural inhabitants (n=13; 65%). Mylagia represented the most common clinical symptom (n=17; 85%). All but one of the patients had benign and moderately severe courses of the disease. The mean eosinophil counts and leukocyte counts were 1... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5284210 Sat, 24 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5284210 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5284212&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21964049%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Bloch P, Nielsen NO, Meyrowitsch DW, Malecela MN, Simonsen PE Abstract Seventy-one individuals who had been examined for Wuchereria bancrofti microfilaraemia in 1975, some of whom had been offered mass treatment with diethylcarbamazine (DEC) in subsequent years, were re-identified in 1996 and examined for microfilaraemia, circulating filarial antigenemia and cellular and humoral immunoresponsiveness to crude antigen homogenates prepared from Brugia pahangi parasite material. 85.9% of the study individuals had the same infection status in 1975 and 1996, suggesting strong predisposition to infection over extended periods of time. IL-4, IL-5 and IFNγ responses were associated with being infection negative in 1996 whereas IL-10 responses were associated with being infection p... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5284212 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5284212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5284211&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21964050%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: El Sawaf BM, Doha SA, Imam MI Abstract The ability of Phlebotomus langeroni to successfully acquire and transmit Leishmania infantum MON-98 to hamsters was demonstrated. Sand flies and Leishmania both originated from an infantile visceral leishmaniasis focus in El Agamy Egypt. P. langeroni females were infected by feeding on lesions of needle-inoculated hamster and on infected blood suspension using a chick-skin membrane apparatus. Infection rate of sand flies fed on membrane was 88% compared to 7.8% for flies fed on leishmanial lesion. The transmission to hamster took place by the bites of infective flies taking a second blood meal, on the 8th to 10th day post-feeding. Furthermore, successful transmission was by the bites of flies that took no blood or that took partial b... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5284211 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5284211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5268609&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21939631%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pereira DD, Souza GD, Pereira TD, Zwetsch A, Britto C, Rangel EF Abstract In order to determine natural Leishmania (Viannia) infection in Lutzomyia (Pintomyia) fischeri, a multiplex PCR methodology coupled to non-isotopic hybridization was adopted for the analysis of sand fly samples collected by CDC light traps in an endemic area of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) in the periurban region of the municipality of Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. We analyzed by PCR methodology 560 specimens of Lutzomyia (Pintomyia) fischeri (520 females and 40 males). The wild sand flies were grouped into 56 pools (52 females and 4 males) of 10 each, and positive results were detected in 2 of the 52 female pools, representing a minimum infection rate of 0.38% based on the... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5268609 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5268609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5268608&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21945272%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Although there were multiple risks for potential Schistosoma japonicum infections in the study area, the knowledge level on schistosomiasis and surveillance was relatively low both in local residents and health personnel. Thus, more health education and professional training are urgently required to local residents and health personnel, respectively. By considering limited activities in surveillance and health education been implemented, a strategy plan on intervention to ensure a stronger inter-sectoral cooperation is recommended in order to reduce schistosomiasis transmission risks in this area. PMID: 21945272 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5268608 Fri, 16 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5268608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5268610&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21933653%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Artigas P, Bargues MD, Mera Y Sierra RL, Agramunt VH, Mas-Coma S Abstract In South America, Fasciola hepatica infection poses serious health problems in both humans and livestock. In Chile, the medical impact appears yearly stable and mainly concentrated in central regions, where the veterinary problem is highlighted by higher animal prevalences. Studies were undertaken by rDNA ITS-2 and ITS-1 and mtDNA cox1 sequencing to clarify the specific status of the lymnaeids, their geographical distribution and fascioliasis transmission capacity in Chile, by comparison with other American countries and continents. Results change the lymnaeid scenario known so far. The lymnaeid fauna of mainland Chile shows to be poor, including only two authochthonous species, Lymnaea viator and Pe... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5268610 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5268610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5235157&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21925137%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maeda FY, Alves RM, Cortez C, Lima FM, Yoshida N Abstract A new genotype of Trypanosoma cruzi, associated with bats from anthropic areas, was recently described. Here we characterized a T. cruzi strain from this new genetic group, which could be a potential source of infection to humans. Metacyclic trypomastigotes (MT) of this strain, herein designated BAT, were compared to MT of well characterized CL and G strains, as regards the surface profile and infectivity toward human epithelial HeLa cells. BAT strain MT expressed gp82, the surface molecule recognized by monoclonal antibody 3F6 and known to promote CL strain invasion by inducing lysosomal exocytosis, as well as mucin-like molecules, but lacked gp90, which functions as a negative regulator of invasion in G strain. A ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5235157 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5235157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5235158&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21920347%26dopt%3DAbstract This study was designed to assess the potential role of polymorphisms on pfcrt and pfmdr1 genes and parasite in vitro susceptibility for epidemiological surveillance of amodiaquine resistance in Plasmodium falciparum. The modified schizont inhibition assay was used to determine in vitro susceptibility profiles of 98 patients' isolates of P. falciparum to amodiaquine. Polymorphisms on parasites pfcrt and pfmdr1 genes were determined with nested PCR followed by sequencing. The geometric mean (GM) of AQ 50% inhibitory concentration (IC-50) in the 97 P. falciparum isolates was 20.48nM (95% CI 16.53-25.36nM). Based on the cut-off value for AQ in vitro susceptibility, 87% (84) of the P. falciparum isolates were sensitive to AQ (GM IC-50=16.32nM; 95%CI 13.3-20.04nM) while 13% were resistant to AQ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5235158 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5235158 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5221624&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21896267%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Inês ED, Souza JN, Santos RC, Souza ES, Santos FL, Silva ML, Silva MP, Teixeira MC, Soares NM Abstract To compare the efficacy of stool examination for the detection of Strongyloides stercoralis and hookworm, a total of 634 stool samples from the routine laboratory service of the Pharmacia Faculty, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil, were examined by agar plate culture (APC), Baermann-Moraes and spontaneous sedimentation. The sensitivity of agar plate culture, calculated by combining results of all 3 methods, was 95% for S. stercoralis and 77.6% for hookwoorm. Moreover, APC had superior accuracy than Baermann-Moraes and spontaneous sedimentation for S. stercoralis and hookworm diagnosis, respectively. The S. stercoralis and hookworm positive samples from the laboratory r... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5221624 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5221624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5221623&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21896268%26dopt%3DAbstract This article summarizes the research questions and challenges being undertaken by the Southwest Pacific International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research in the context of the epidemiology, transmission and pathogenesis of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax at the present time and the recent past. It is hoped that the research accomplished and local infrastructure strengthened by this effort will help inform regional and national policy with regard to the control and ultimately elimination of malaria in this region of the world. PMID: 21896268 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5221623 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5221623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5221620&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21906579%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Miguel CE, Bortoluzzi TB, Otaviano AP, Cardinalli-Neto A, Faria da Rocha B, Ferrari SJ, Bestetti RB Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of anemia on outcome of patients with chronic systolic heart failure secondary to Chagas' cardiomyopathy, as no previous study has previously addressed this question. One-hundred-eight-six patients followed for chronic systolic heart failure secondary to Chagas' cardiomyopathy at our Institution from January 2000 to December 2008 were studied. Forty-nine (26%) patients were found to have anemia; 37 (20%) were men and 12 (6%) were women. Mean hemoglobin level was 14.1±1.2g/L in patients with no anemia and 11.5±1.2g/L in patients with anemia. On a Cox proportional hazards multivariate analysis, an... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5221620 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5221620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5221625&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21893016%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Campelo R, Galindo MM, Ramirez JL Abstract High telomerase activity is always associated with actively dividing cells, however the detection of this activity in dividing Leishmania and Trypanosoma cruzi cells has always been disappointingly low. Recently, we have found that Leishmania major telomerase activity can be activated by heat, which combined with dilutions of the nuclear extracts produced an increase in activity comparable to cancer cells. Here we examined whether T. cruzi telomerase shares the same physicochemical properties of primer specificity and overall features of the L. major. Our studies revealed that no telomerase inhibitory factors were present in the nuclear lysates of T. cruzi however the enzyme was activated by heat and was very resilient to heat den... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5221625 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5221625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5221622&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21896269%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: In this study population, HIV sero-positive patients were more likely to have intestinal parasitic infections. The study underscores the public health significance of intestinal parasitic infections in HIV infected individuals. PMID: 21896269 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5221622 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5221622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5221621&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21903090%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Peixoto MC, Souza CF, Buchensky C, Soares JB, Laranja GA, Coelho MG, Cricco JA, Paes MC Abstract Heme (iron protoporphyrin IX) is an important molecule involved in many biological reactions, including oxygen transport, respiration, photosynthesis and drug detoxification. Trypanosoma cruzi parasites, the etiological agent of Chagas' disease, take up heme from the environment to supply their nutritional needs because they do not synthesize this cofactor. However, the mechanisms involved in heme transport across biological membranes are poorly understood. Indeed, in T. cruzi, no heme transporter has yet been characterized. In the present work, we evaluate the heme uptake processes by T. cruzi epimastigotes using fluorescent heme-analogues. Heme uptake decreased significantly ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5221621 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5221621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5180400&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21875567%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: da Silva RA, Tavares NM, Costa D, Pitombo M, Barbosa L, Fukutani K, Miranda JC, de Oliveira CI, Valenzuela JG, Barral A, Soto M, Barral-Netto M, Brodskyn C Abstract It was recently shown that immunization of hamsters with DNA plasmids coding LJM19, a sand fly salivary protein, partially protected against a challenge with Leishmania chagasi, whereas immunization with KMP11 DNA plasmid, a Leishmania antigen, induced protection against L. donovani infection. In the present study, we evaluated the protective effect of immunization with both LJM19 and KMP11 DNA plasmid together. Concerning the protection against an infection by L. chagasi, immunization with DNA plasmids coding LJM19 or KMP11, as well as with both plasmids combined, induced IFN-γ production in draining lymph no... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5180400 Sun, 21 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5180400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5180399&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21875568%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion, the findings suggest that the anti-inflammatory BmAFI fraction facilitates survival of B. malayi infection even in non-permissive environment. PMID: 21875568 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5180399 Sun, 21 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5180399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5180398&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21875569%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wahlers K, Menezes CN, Wong M, Mogoye B, Frean J, Romig T, Kern P, Grobusch MP Abstract Cystic echinococcosis is recognised as causing considerable morbidity and even mortality in South Africa, but the epidemiology of the disease is to date unknown. From current evidence there are also concerns that co-infections with HIV and tuberculosis (TB) considerably increase CE-associated morbidity. The aim of this analysis was to characterise clinical features and disease burden of CE in South Africa in preparation for a prospective study. Retrospective case note analysis of patients presenting to two large academic hospitals in Johannesburg, South Africa, for clinical and demographic data was performed. In addition, data of the National Health Laboratory Service were accessed for ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5180398 Sun, 21 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5180398 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5180401&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21871864%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Moss WJ, Norris DE, Mharakurwa S, Scott A, Mulenga M, Mason PR, Chipeta J, Thuma PE, Abstract The burden of malaria has decreased dramatically within the past several years in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, including regions of Southern Africa. Important to effective regional malaria control in Southern Africa is the appreciation that the reductions in malaria have not been achieved uniformly, with some countries experiencing resurgence. Understanding the reasons for sustained low-level malaria transmission in the face of control efforts, why malaria control efforts have not been successful in particular epidemiological settings and the epidemiological and transmission patterns following resurgence are critical to improving further malaria control and possible elimination. ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5180401 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5180401 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5160384&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21855523%26dopt%3DAbstract This study contributes to the characterisation of the dynamics of T. cruzi populations in southern Brazil. PMID: 21855523 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5160384 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5160384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5142863&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21840292%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Trevennec K, Chevalier V, Grosbois V, Garcia JM, Thu HH, Berthouly-Salazar C, Peiris JS, Roger F Abstract Epidemiological surveys of avian influenza infections rarely focus on backyard poultry systems in remote locations because areas with low levels of poultry production are considered to have little influence on the emergence, re-emergence, persistence or spread of avian influenza viruses. In addition, routine disease investigations in remote areas often are neglected due to the lower availability and relatively high cost of veterinary services there. A bank of avian sera collected in 2005 from ethnic minority households in Ha Giang province (Northern Vietnam), located on the Chinese border, was analysed to estimate the seroprevalence of avian influenza virus (AIV) durin... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5142863 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5142863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112265&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21819955%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rao M PMID: 21819955 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112265 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112264&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21820398%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we investigated ESBLs and AmpC β-lactamases in clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae from the Philippines, and analyzed the association between ESBL and PMQR genes. A total of 91 amoxicilin non-susceptible Enterobacteriaceae were collected at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine of the Philippines from 2006 to 2008. AmpC- or ESBL-producing isolates were screened by detecting a zone diameter for cefoxitin≤14mm or cefpodoxime≤20mm, respectively. Possible ESBL-producing strains were assessed by the ESBL confirmation test of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. PCR and sequencing were performed to detect the ESBL and PMQR genes. The number of ESBL-producers and AmpC-producers confirmed phenotypically was 17 (18.7%) and 61 (67.0%), respectively. Of 17 p... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112264 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112266&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21810402%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Geetha I, Manonmani AM, Prabakaran G Samples collected from the mangrove forests of Andaman & Nicobar islands yielded a mosquitocidal bacterium, whose extracellular metabolite(s) exhibited mosquito larvicidal and pupicidal activity. The bacterium was isolated using standard microbiological methods and identified using classical biochemical tests and rpoB gene sequences. The mosquitocidal bacterium was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Mosquitocidal metabolite(s) was separated from the culture supernatant of the bacterium and its efficacy against the larval and pupal stages of different species of mosquitoes was determined in terms of LC(50) and LC(90). Mosquito larvicidal activity in terms of LC(50) against Anopheles stephensi, Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegy... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112266 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112267&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21803019%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, 505 sera obtained from swine bred in familial settings from 8 different provinces in Cambodia were tested by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) and ELISA tests to assess the presence of an immunological response to a JEV infection. Three hundred and thirty two sera (65.7%) were tested positives by HI assay and 321 (63.5%) by ELISA. Our results indicate that pigs particularly older than 6 months (95.2%) were highly infected with JEV in the 8 provinces. The high prevalence of HI antibodies and the high HI titer (>160 in 65.2% of cases and ≥1280 in 24.6% of cases) found in this age group suggest the important role of pigs in the transmission cycle of JEV in nature as they become probably rapidly infected and repeatedly re-exposed to the virus. Since the current pig rearing p... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112267 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112270&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21784053%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wernsdorfer WH In the absence of secular climatic changes, the global challenges of changing epidemiological patterns of malaria have to be induced by man, i.e. by a disturbance of the equilibrium between man, vector and the parasite in an environment conducive to the natural transmission of the pathogen. There are many ways of attempting such a disturbance, from the use of personal protection to the use of diagnostic and remedial antiplasmodial treatment, up to the application of vector control measures for the elimination of breeding places, larviciding and the use of intradomestic insecticides. This will be done by looking at the parasites responsible for the specific infection, and considering the various arthropod hosts and the human hosts, before the comprehensive treatm... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112270 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112269&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21791196%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tikasingh ES, Chadee DD, Rawlins SC Like other countries around the globe where conditions existed for the parasites causing hookworm disease to thrive, this disease was a serious problem to settlers in countries of the Commonwealth Caribbean, i.e. those countries that were formerly part of the British Empire. Early in the 20th century, the Rockefeller Foundation (RF) assisted the southern United States in controlling this disease. Soon other countries requested assistance and the Rockefeller Foundation responded by creating their International Health Commission to target the problem. Guyana (then British Guiana) was the first country where work was started. Through a system of chemotherapy, sanitation with the provision of latrines and health education the RF assisted the Com... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112269 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112273&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21781951%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Neghina R, Calma CL, Neghina AM As travel has become easier and faster, the rate of tropical infections across the world is expected to increase; more students working abroad are going to encounter these diseases more often. Disorders of parasitic etiology play an important role in travel and tropical medicine. The aim of our study was to assess the preclinical students' knowledge regarding parasitic diseases, tropical and travel medicine in the broad context of their professional background. A total of 346 Romanian medical students completed a 13-item questionnaire on the above-mentioned topics. In order to allow for complex evaluation, the questionnaire also included items related to their extracurricular training as well as their future perspectives. The majority of the stu... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112273 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112272&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21781952%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ozbilgin A, Topluoglu S, Es S, Islek E, Mollahaliloglu S, Erkoc Y Turkey is located in the middle of Asia, Africa and Europe, close to Caucasia, Balkans and Middle East in subtropical climate zone. Malaria has been known since the early ages of human history and it was one of the leading diseases in Anatolian history, as well. Today, chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium vivax is the only agent of autochthonous malaria cases in Turkey. The other Plasmodium species identified are isolated from imported cases of malaria. The most common vector of malaria in Turkey is Anopheles sacharovi followed by An. superpictus, An. maculipennis and An. subalpinus. In 2009, pre-elimination stage of Malaria Program was started due to dramatic decline in the number of malaria cases in Turkey (Total,... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112272 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112271&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21781953%26dopt%3DAbstract We describe here the research strategies and activities to be undertaken by the Centro Latino Americano de Investigación en Malaria (CLAIM), a new research center established for the non-Amazonian region of Latin America by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Throughout a network of countries in the region, initially including Colombia, Guatemala, Panama, and Peru, CLAIM will address major gaps in our understanding of changing malaria epidemiology, vector biology and control, and clinical malaria mainly due to Plasmodium vivax. In close partnership with NMCPs, CLAIM seeks to conduct research on how and why malaria is decreasing in many countries of the region as a basis for developing and implementing new strategies that will accelerate malaria elimination. ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112271 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112274&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21777558%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Phompradit P, Wisedpanichkij R, Muhamad P, Chaijaroenkul W, Na-Bangchang K The association between pfatp6, pfmdr1 polymorphisms (gene mutation and amplification) and in vitro susceptibility to mefloquine (MQ), artesunate (AS), quinine (QN), and chloroquine (CQ) was investigated in a total of sixty-three Plasmodium falciparum isolates collected from the Thai-Myanmar border. The mutations of pfatp6 at codons R37K, G639D, S769N, and I898I and of pfmdr1 at codons N86Y, Y184F, N1042D, and D1246Y were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Pfatp6 and pfmdr1 gene copy numbers were analyzed by quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In vitro susceptibility test was successful in 58 culture-adapted isolates. Median... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112274 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112279&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21763257%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we developed a highly sensitive TaqMan real-time PCR assay for the detection of Schistosoma japonicum DNA in mouse feces and serum samples. This assay was based on the DNA sequence of the S. japonicum 18S rRNA gene and was able to detect 10fg of S. japonicum genomic DNA, which is 100 times more sensitive than conventional PCR. We were able to detect the S. japonicum DNA one week post-infection in mouse sera and 4 weeks post-infection in feces, which was one week earlier than egg detection by microscopy in feces. This assay was also highly specific for Asian Schistosomes which are causative species of human Schistosomiasis. In single sex male cercariae infected mice, parasite DNA was only detected in the first 4 weeks post-infection, suggesting that the DNA was derived from d... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112279 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112277&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21763670%26dopt%3DAbstract This report summarizes what is known about the burden of malaria and the strategies being implemented to control it in Malawi. Over the past 5 years, roll out of treatment and prevention efforts have been successful in the country, as demonstrated by increased use of insecticide treated nets, improved access to prompt and effective treatment and the initiation of pilot studies of indoor residual spraying. However, unlike other countries in the region, the recent data have not suggested a decrease in the burden of disease. We describe the environment in which the activities of Malawi's International Center for Excellence in Malaria Research (ICEMR) will be carried out and provide the rationale for the clinical, entomological and molecular studies. Our approach is to establish consistent, st... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112277 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112275&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21767521%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: González LC, Esteban JG, Bargues MD, Valero MA, Ortiz P, Náquira C, Mas-Coma S A coprological survey including 476 2-18 year old school children from six rural localities between 2627 and 3061m altitude was performed in Cajamarca province, Peru. Prevalences of fascioliasis ranging from 6.7 to 47.7% (mean 24.4%) proved to be the highest so far recorded in that human hyperendemic area. Higher prevalences in females and in the 2-5 year old group were not significant. Intensities ranged from 24 to 864 eggs per gram (arithmetic mean: 113; geometric mean: 68), the majority shedding less than 100, and without significant differences according to gender or age group. Fasciola hepatica was the most common helminth within a spectrum of 11-12 protozoan and 9-11 helminth species, 97.3% ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112275 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112276&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21763671%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kannathasan K, Senthilkumar A, Venkatesalu V The vector-borne diseases caused by mosquitoes are one of the major health problems in many countries especially in tropical and sub-tropical countries. The resistance of mosquitoes to synthetic chemicals and environmental toxicity created by the chemicals raised the demand for finding of alternate natural molecules that control mosquito. In the present study, a crystalline compound methyl-p-hydroxybenzoate was isolated from the methanol extract of Vitex trifolia leaves and it was identified by (1)H and (13)C NMR and single crystal X-ray diffractometer. The larvicidal potential of the isolated compound was evaluated against early 4th instar larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti. The compound exhibited 100% larval mortal... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112276 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112268&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21801708%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sudasinghe T, Rajapakse RP, Perera NA, Kumarasiri PV, Eriyagama NB, Arseculeratne SN No data is available in the world literature on serum anti-rhinosporidial antibody levels in animals, and as far as we aware this is the first report. Although rhinosporidiosis in farm and domestic animals has been widely reported from other countries, rhinosporidiosis in animals has not been reported in Sri Lanka, though this country has the highest world-wide prevalence of human rhinosporidiosis on a unit-population basis. Serum IgG titres in 6 species of Sri Lankan animals (buffalo, cat, cattle, dog, goat, horse; total 291) were assayed by the Immuno blot (dot-ELISA) method on nitrocellulose paper and were compared with serum IgG titres in normal Sri Lankan human subjects (total 211) in dif... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112268 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112278&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21763258%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Márquez E, Jaramillo-O N, Gómez-Palacio A, Dujardin JP In Triatominae, "robustus" group constitutes a cluster of species with great haplotypic divergences but high similarities at morphological and nuclear DNA levels. Given these similarities, species identification generates a frequently problematic issue. In northwestern Amazonia, Rhodnius robustus cohabit with an apparently new species, cryptic with R. robustus (Abad-Franch and Monteiro, 2005). In this region (municipality of Puerto Asís, Department of Putumayo, Colombia), we collected insects classified as R. robustus by traditional keys. We compared this sample with specimens of R. robustus from Venezuela, and of R. prolixus from Colombia and Venezuela. The comparisons used landmark-based geometric morphometrics, and a... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112278 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112282&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21756863%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Talisuna A, Adibaku S, Dorsey G, Kamya MR, Rosenthal PJ In the recent past there have been several reports of successes in malaria control, leading some public health experts to conclude that Africa is witnessing an epidemiological transition, from an era of failed malaria control to progression from successful control to elimination. Successes in control have been attributed to increased international donor support leading to increased intervention coverage. However, these changes are not uniform across Africa. In Uganda, where baseline transmission is very high and intervention coverage not yet to scale, the malaria burden is not declining and has even likely increased in the last decade. In this article we present perspectives for the future for Uganda and other malaria end... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112282 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112281&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21756864%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mharakurwa S, Thuma PE, Norris DE, Mulenga M, Chalwe V, Chipeta J, Munyati S, Mutambu S, Mason PR, The burden of malaria has decreased dramatically within the past several years in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, following the scale-up of interventions supported by the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, the President's Malaria Initiative and other partners. It is important to appreciate that the reductions in malaria have not been uniform between and within countries, with some areas experiencing resurgence instead. Furthermore, while interventions have greatly reduced the burden of malaria in many countries, it is also recognized that the malaria decline pre-dated widespread intervention efforts, at least in some cases where data are available. This raises more questions as what ot... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112281 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5112280&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21756865%26dopt%3DAbstract We report experimental results that improve our understanding of how foraging sand flies proceed over flat or sloping ground and how they negotiate vertical obstacles. Three rows of traps were suspended at different heights on a wire fence. Those just above ground level captured 87% of all flies, traps set at one meter captured 11% while only 2% of the flies were captured in traps set two meters above ground. When traps were deployed on a vertical support wall, the mean catch per trap was much higher than for traps suspended on the fence. Traps suspended just above ground level captured 57% of all flies, traps set at one meter above ground captured 27% of the flies and even traps set at two meters captured 16% of the flies. Although, most flies were still captured close to the ground, a hi... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5112280 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5112280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019404&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21741348%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, a sero-epidemiological survey was conducted in 654 dogs from that geographical area. Serum samples were evaluated by the direct agglutination test (DAT) and also by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using five different defined antigens. Seroprevalence of infection was 21.3% based on the assumption that seropositive animals were positive for at least three tests. A high degree of agreement was found between DAT and LAM-ELISA (89%; kappa value [κ]=0.67). A statistically significant difference (p<0.05) of seropositivity was found between adult (23.4%) and juvenile dogs (12.2%), apparently healthy (14.8%) and sick dogs (40.2%), vaccinated (19.7%) and non-vaccinated (41.2%) animals, seropositive (26.9%) and seronegative (18.0%) for Toxoplasma gondii, living in rural ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019404 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019403&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21741349%26dopt%3DAbstract We describe here the current status of malaria in a non-Amazonian region comprising several countries of South and Central America participating in the Centro Latino Americano de Investigación en Malaria (CLAIM), an International Center of Excellence for Malaria Research (ICEMR) sponsored by the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). PMID: 21741349 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019403 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019401&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21741929%26dopt%3DAbstract CONCLUSION: Malaria-helminth coinfections are prevalent among schoolchildren in rural Tanzania and the pattern varies between agro-ecosystems. Results of this study suggest that integrated control of malaria and helminthes should be designed based on the local agro-ecosystems. PMID: 21741929 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019401 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019401 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019402&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21741350%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Harbach RE The internal classification of the cosmopolitan and medically important genus Culex is thoroughly reviewed and updated to reflect the multitude of taxonomic changes and concepts which have been published since the classification was last compiled by Edwards in 1932. Both formal and informal taxa are included. The classification is intended to aid researchers and students who are interested in analyzing species relationships, making group comparisons and testing phylogenetic hypotheses. The genus includes 768 formally recognized species divided among 26 subgenera. Many of the subgenera are subdivided hierarchically into nested informal groups of morphologically similar species that are believed to represent monophyletic lineages based on morphological similarity. The... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019402 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019402 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019406&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21722620%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lacerda-Queiroz N, Lima OC, Carneiro CM, Vilela MC, Teixeira AL, Carvalho AT, Araújo MS, Martins-Filho OA, Braga EM, Carvalho-Tavares J Malaria is second only to tuberculosis as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality as a consequence of a single infectious agent. Much of the pathology of malaria arises from the inappropriate or excessive immune response mounted by the host in an attempt to eliminate the parasite. We here report the inflammatory changes observed in the cerebral microvasculature of C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice that had been inoculated with Plasmodium berghei NK65, a lethal strain of rodent malaria. Although no neurological signs were observed in experimentally infected mice, inflammation of the cerebral microvasculature was clearly evident. Histopathological a... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019406 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019407&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21718675%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Urrea DA, Guhl F, Herrera CP, Falla A, Carranza JC, Cuba-Cuba C, Triana-Chávez O, Grisard EC, Vallejo GA Spliced leader intergenic region (SL-IR) sequences from 24 Trypanosoma rangeli strains isolated from the salivary glands of Rhodnius colombiensis, R. ecuadoriensis, R. pallescens and R. prolixus and a human strain revealed the existence of 4 genotypes with CA, GT, TA, ATT and GTAT microsatellite repeats and the presence of insertions/deletions (INDEL) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) characterizing each genotype. The strains isolated from the same vector species or the same Rhodnius evolutionary line presented the same genotypes, even in cases where strains had been isolated from vectors captured in geographically distant regions. The dendrogram constructed from th... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019407 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019405&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21726520%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Brandão E, Bonfim C, Cabral D, Lima JL, Aguiar-Santos AM, Maciel A, Medeiros Z A parasitological survey was conducted among children and adolescents in the municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Brazil to describe the occurrence and spatial distribution of lymphatic filariasis. Microfilaraemia was investigated through the thick smear technique, using 50μl of capillary blood that was collected at night. The spatial analysis used a digital base map of the municipality, divided into districts, which were classified as hypoendemic, mesoendemic or hyperendemic. 8670 children were examined and 96 cases of microfilaraemia were identified (1.1%). The prevalence rate did not differ significantly between the sexes. Occurrences of filarial infection increased with increasing age: th... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019405 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019408&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21703221%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Regis SC, Mendonça LR, Silva ND, Dattoli VC, Alcântara-Neves NM, Barrouin-Melo SM Toxocara canis is a highly prevalent worldwide canine nematode responsible for enzootic and zoonotic infections. It is considered to be one of the main agents of human visceral and ocular larva migrans. False negative diagnosis may occur because adult infected dogs with "dormant" larvae may have negative fecal test results since they usually do not shed parasite eggs in their stools. During pregnancy, the larvae become active and infect the offspring through the placenta. A serological test can distinguish infected animals, thus increasing the accuracy of the diagnosis for epidemiological studies and prophylactic purposes. In the present work a serological investigation was carried out to study... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019408 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5019409&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21703220%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kuo CC, Huang JL, Ko CY, Lee PF, Wang HC We analyzed the spatial distribution of human cases of scrub typhus on the main island of Taiwan from 2003 to 2008 and implemented an island-wide survey of scrub typhus vectors (trombiculid chiggers) in 2007 and 2008. The standardized incidence rate 'SIR' incorporating inter-district variations in population, gender and age was correlated with environmental and socioeconomic variables. Higher incidence and SIR rates were clustered in the less developed, mountainous regions of central and eastern Taiwan. Higher SIRs were also associated with a higher proportion of dry-field farmers in the population, a higher normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and lower mean annual temperature, but was not associated with rainfall. Small mamma... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5019409 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5019409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971992&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21693096%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: García-Trejo AR, Falcón-Lezama JA, Juárez-Palma L, Granados J, Zúñiga-Ramos J, Rangel H, Barquera R, Vargas-Alarcón G, Ramos C Increased levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in patients with dengue have been reported. Various polymorphisms have been identified in the promoter region of the TNF-α gene that may affect its transcription. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between polymorphisms of TNF-α gene and the genetic susceptibility to dengue fever in a group of patients from Morelos State, Mexico. The TNF-α polymorphisms (positions -238 and -308) were determined by PCR-RFLP technique in 130 patients with dengue (85 with dengue fever and 45 with dengue hemorrhagic fever) and 169 healthy controls. The patients were selected fr... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971992 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971999&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21664340%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, we developed a sensitive, genus-specific, real-time quantitative PCR assay. It was compared with the microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained blood smears and two different molecular diagnostic techniques: nested PCR and multiplex PCR. For the effective quantitative detection of malaria parasites, all reagents were designed with a lyophilized format in one tube. Plasmodium was detected successfully in all 112 clinically suspected malaria patients, including 32 individuals with low parasitemia (1-100parasites/μl). The sensitivity threshold was 0.2parasites/μl and no PCR-positive reaction occurred when malaria parasites were not present. This may be a useful method for detecting malaria parasites in endemic areas. PMID: 21664340 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Sour... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971999 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971997&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21679679%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Shakya N, Sane SA, Vishwakarma P, Bajpai P, Gupta S Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by the parasite Leishmania donovani, is a potentially fatal disease. It is characterized by prolonged fever, enlarged spleen and liver, substantial weight loss and progressive anemia. Available drugs are toxic, costly and require prolonged treatment duration viz; 28 days of oral treatment with miltefosine, 30 days infusion with Amphotericin B and 21 days intramascular with paromomycin sulfate. Drug combination for VL clinically proved to shorten the duration of treatment. The efficacy of drugs is also compromised due to suppression of immune function during the course of infection. To combat this situation leishmanicidal efficacy of already marketed standard antifungal drug, ketoconazole und... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971997 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971993&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21683054%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oshaghi MA, Rassi Y, Tajedin L, Abai MR, Akhavan AA, Enayati A, Mohtarami F Accurate identification of animal reservoirs of transmissible diseases is an absolute requirement to any epidemiological survey of zoonoses and is essential for predicting species-specific population outbreaks and therefore to develop accurate ecological control strategies. The systematic status of the great gerbil (Rhombomys opimus) remains unclear, despite the fundamental role of these rodents as the main known reservoir hosts of the protozoan parasite Leishmania major in the epidemiology of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) in central and south Asia. In the present work, we represent molecular evidence supporting the identification of at least two major lineages (subspecies) within the species ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971993 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971998&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21672510%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Nattero J, Leonhard G, Rodríguez CS, Crocco L In Triatominae, female fecundity and fertility may be affected by age, adult nutritional status (i.e., blood meal source and amount of blood ingested) and number of matings. Triatoma infestans (Klug) is the main vector of Chagas disease in southern South America and considering that reproductive success is intimately associated with the potential for colonizing or re-colonizing new ecotopes in endemic areas, we studied whether the blood meal source and the amount of blood ingested have influence on reproductive parameters. We constitute two groups: couples feeding regularly on guinea pigs and couples feeding regularly on pigeons. We registered quantity of blood ingested, fecundity, fertility, number of matings, days between the fi... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971998 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971996&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21679680%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Michel G, Pomares C, Ferrua B, Marty P Leishmaniasis due to Leishmania infantum (syn. L. chagasi) infection is a zoonotic disease present mainly in Mediterranean basin, central Asia and Brazil. Besides a limited number of human cases of clinical visceral leishmaniasis, a great number of infections remains asymptomatic. In this review, the prevalence of asymptomatic carriers of L. infantum was evaluated worldwide using parasitological methods or indirect testing such as a skin test or serology. The consequences of the presence of asymptomatic carriers on parasite transmission by blood donation or the development of clinical visceral leishmaniasis in immunocompromised individuals and its possible role as reservoir are discussed. PMID: 21679680 [PubMed - as supplied by publis... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971996 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971995&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21679681%26dopt%3DAbstract This study reports the results of a field-based village scale trial of deltamethrin incorporated long-lasting polyethylene netting (Netprotect(®)) conducted in P. falciparum predominant pocket of Assam, north-east India to assess operational feasibility, acceptability and sustainability against disease vectors and malaria transmission. The study monitored the residual efficacy of the long-lasting net in relation to serial washings in the laboratory and malaria prevalence in experimental villages for the first year of investigations from September 2008 to June 2009. The mosquito vector populations of Anopheles minimus were observed to be highly susceptible to deltamethrin (0.05%), and follow up investigations revealed that the vector mosquito had virtually disappeared in Netprotect(®) int... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971995 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4971994&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21679682%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Vongsombath C, de Boer HJ, Pålsson K Terrestrial blood-sucking leeches (Haemadipsidae) are common in the damp forests of the subtropical and tropical Indo-Pacific region. Members of the genus Haemadipsa are abundant in Laos and adjacent countries of Southeast Asia, and discomfort to people and livestock. Plant-derived repellents against arthropods and leeches are common in Lao PDR, and have been used by Lao ethnic groups for generations. Numerous studies have been conducted on the efficacy of traditional plant-derived repellents against mosquitoes but only a few on repellents against terrestrial blood-sucking leeches. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the leech repellent activities of aqueous extracts of three traditionally used plant species, Sapindus rarak DC., C... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4971994 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4971994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4972000&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21663729%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maretti-Mira AC, de Pinho Rodrigues KM, de Oliveira-Neto MP, Pirmez C, Craft N Infection of humans with Leishmania braziliensis typically results in localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL). Rarely, after months or years of apparent clinical cure, some patients develop the destructive mucosal leishmaniasis (ML). ML results from L. braziliensis dissemination, probably via phagocytic cells. As the preferred cells for Leishmania spp. colonization, macrophages are critical to infection control, and may contribute to parasite dissemination. However, the host factors that determine this outcome are unknown. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is known to be important for immune cell migration, macrophage recruitment, and effective granuloma formation. Moreover, MMP-9 has been involved... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4972000 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4972000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923850&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21658361%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kushwaha S, Singh PK, Rana AK, Misra-Bhattacharya S The pleiotropic functions of disaccharide trehalose in the biology of nematodes and its absence from mammalian cells suggest that its biosynthesis may provide a useful target for developing novel nematicidal drugs. The trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP), one of the enzymes of trehalose metabolism has not been characterized so far in nematodes except the free living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans where it is silencing results into lethal outcomes. This prompted us to clone and characterize Brugia malayi TPP in order to discover novel antifilarial drug target. The recombinant protein (Bm-TPP) was purified with apparent homogeneity on a metal ion column and it was found to possess high phosphatase activity with robust spec... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923850 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4923850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923851&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21651884%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cordeiro RA, Coelho CG, Brilhante RS, Sidrim JJ, Castelo-Branco DS, Moura FB, Rocha MF Histoplasmosis is a systemic infection caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. Environmental sources of infection for humans and animals in certain regions and the prevalence of infection in animals are frequently unknown. Because of the clinical and epidemiological similarities between histoplasmosis and leishmaniasis in northeastern Brazil, we decided to investigate the serologic evidence of H. capsulatum in dogs, considering that these animals can act as sentinels for histoplasmosis. A total of 224 serum samples from dogs were tested for antibodies against H. capsulatum through immunodiffusion. A total of 128 (57.14%) samples were positive for leishmaniasis by indirect immunofluoresc... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923851 Sun, 29 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4923851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923854&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21635868%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Heaselgrave W, Kilvington S The antimicrobial activity of simulated solar disinfection (SODIS) in the presence and absence of riboflavin against various protozoa and helminth organisms was investigated in this study. Assays were conducted in transparent 12 well microtitre plates containing a suspension of test organisms in the presence or absence of 250μM riboflavin. Plates were exposed to simulated sunlight at an optical irradiance of 550Wm(-2) (watts per square metre) delivered from a SUNTEST™ CPS+ solar simulator. Aliquots of the test suspensions were taken at set time points and the viability of the test organisms was determined by either culture, microscopy or flow cytometry where applicable. With Acanthamoeba, Naegleria, Entamoeba and Giardia exposure to SODIS at an o... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923854 Thu, 26 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4923854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923852&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21640066%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study, Naegleria spp. were detected in 19 (17.8%) of the water samples. The occurrence of Naegleria in raw domestic water was 28.6%, higher than in stream water (14.7%) and in spring water (6.5%). The most frequently identified species exhibiting the closest phylogenetic relationships to the isolates were N. australiensis (n=4) and N. canariensis (n=4), followed by N. clarki (n=3) and N. philippinensis (n=3); N. americana (n=2). N. lovaniensis, N. dobsoni, and N. gruberi were each detected once. The pathogenic species N. fowleri was not detected, probably due to the low incubation temperature; however, the isolates exhibiting the closest phylogenetic relationships to the pathogenic species in mice of PAM, N. australiensis and N. philippinensis, were found. Results of this survey su... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923852 Thu, 26 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4923852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923853&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21635869%26dopt%3DAbstract This study reports a combined analysis of mitochondrial and ribosomal DNA target regions of phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) from the Mediterranean region. A ∼900bp long fragment of the mitochondrial DNA encompassing regions within cytb and nd1 gene and the complete ITS2 ribosomal region (∼500bp) were sequenced and characterized for Phlebotomus perniciosus, Phlebotomus perfiliewi, Phlebotomus neglectus, Phlebotomus papatasi, and Sergentomyia minuta, captured in two sites of southern Italy. From one to eight mitochondrial haplotypes and from one to three ITS2 sequence types were found for the examined specimens according to the different sand fly species. The mean interspecific difference in the mitochondrial sequences was of 16.1%, with an overall intraspecific nucleotide... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923853 Tue, 24 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4923853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4923855&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21620790%26dopt%3DAbstract In this report, we extend the analysis of the PfEMP1-CIDR1α B-cell interaction and demonstrate that PfEMP1-CIDR1α increases the expression of TLR7 and TLR10 mRNA transcripts and sensitizes B cells to TLR9 signalling via the MyD88 adaptor molecule. Furthermore, despite its ability to bind to surface Igs, PfEMP1-CIDR1α-induced B-cell activation does not seem to proceed through the BCR, since it does not induce Lyn and/or phospho-tyrosine mediated signalling pathways. Rather PfEMP1-CIDR1α induces the phosphorylation of downstream kinases, such as ERK1/2, p38 and IKBα, in human B cells. These findings indicate that PfEMP1-CIDR1α induces a persistent activation of B cells, which in turn can contribute to the exhaustion and impairment of B-cell functions during chronic malaria infection. ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4923855 Wed, 18 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4923855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877217&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21609709%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mehrizi AA, Asgharpour S, Salmanian AH, Djadid ND, Zakeri S Plasmodium falciparum remains globally an important cause of mortality and morbidity and despite decades of research, no effective vaccine is available against this deadly parasite. The 19-kDa C-terminal fragment of P. falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 (PfMSP-1(19)) is a target for protective immunity against malaria and the major concern in development of vaccine based on this antigen is the presence of polymorphisms. This investigation was designed to evaluate naturally acquired antibodies and antigen-binding avidity of IgG antibodies to three variant forms of PfMSP-1(19) antigen (E/TSG/L, E/KNG/F and Q/KNG/L) in malaria individuals who are living in hypoendemic areas in Iran (n=92, 4-75years old). The three va... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877217 Mon, 16 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877222&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21586268%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Knopp S, Stothard JR, Rollinson D, Mohammed KA, Khamis IS, Marti H, Utzinger J In Zanzibar, the prevalence and intensity of helminth infections have markedly declined over the past 25 years, which is generally attributed to morbidity control programmes emphasising 'preventive chemotherapy'. Here we provide an update of the current situation of soil-transmitted helminthiasis and urinary schistosomiasis on Unguja Island, and highlight socioeconomic development, improvement in sanitation and health education as additional drivers against helminthiases. Our data were obtained from cross-sectional surveys carried out between 2006 and 2009 with stool and urine samples from 2858 and 879 individuals, respectively, examined for helminth eggs and larvae. Additionally, several hundred pe... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877222 Fri, 13 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877220&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21605537%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Donalisio MR, Peterson AT Using ecological niche modeling approaches, we assessed suites of environmental factors to identify areas of transmission risk in forested regions of southern Brazil. We studied all officially confirmed cases from the Epidemiological Surveillance System of the Brazilian Health Ministry from Atlantic Forest and Araucaria forest areas of southern Brazil (n=264), during 1993-2008. Among climate-related influences associated with hantavirus cases, winter precipitation and high photosynthetic mass (EVI) were particularly closely related to case distributions. Models identified broad risk areas for hantavirus transmission, extending along the coastal Atlantic Forest region from São Paulo to Rio Grande do Sul, eastern Paraguay, and Argentina. Host distribut... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877220 Fri, 13 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877221&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21601554%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: de Andrade-Neto VV, Cicco NN, da Cunha-Junior EF, do Canto-Cavalheiro MM, Atella GC, Torres-Santos EC Leishmania parasites, despite being able to synthesize their own sterols, acquire and accumulate significant amounts of cholesterol through low density lipoprotein (LDL) particle endocytosis. The role of this system in Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes under pharmacological pressure by sterol biosynthesis inhibitors (SBIs) was investigated. First, thin layer chromatography demonstrated that L. amazonensis promastigotes, in response to ergosterol biosynthesis inhibition by treatment with 4.0 and 6.0μM ketoconazole or miconazole, accumulate up to two times more cholesterol than controls. The treatment of promastigotes with ketoconazole and simvastatin, two SBIs with non-rela... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877221 Thu, 12 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877219&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21605538%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Tabbabi A, Ghrab J, Aoun K, Ready PD, Bouratbine A From 2009 to 2010, 3129 sandflies were caught in CDC light traps placed in various habitats in Ghomrassen, Tataouine governorate, southeast Tunisia, a mixed focus of human cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major. Species diversity was quantified in anthropogenic, semi-anthropogenic and semi-natural locations. Sandflies were identified according to morphological characters and also by the comparative sequence analysis of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene to distinguish between two putative local vectors of L. tropica, namely Phlebotomus chabaudi and Phlebotomus riouxi. The lowest sandfly diversities were found in L. major sites, where the incriminated vector P. papatasi predomin... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877219 Thu, 12 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877218&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21605539%26dopt%3DAbstract This study was carried out from September 2009 to February 2010. It involved a questionnaire administration, serology, treatment, coproscopy and neuro-imaging. Four hundred and three serum samples were collected from the village people, which covered 94% of the village population. By using a parallel combination of the antigen-detection ELISA and the enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot (EITB) a cysticercosis seroprevalence of 11.9% (95% CI: 8.9-15.4%) was found. Cerebral CT-scans showed that 23.3% (10/43) of the seropositives were affected by neurocysticercosis. Four out of these 43 (9.3%) were tapeworm carriers. Seropositivity was significantly associated to older age groups (41-60 years old; p=0.001 and 61-91 years old; p=0.028) and absence of a household toilet (p=0.001). It can be... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877218 Thu, 12 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877224&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21570939%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hanafi HA, Fryauff DJ, Saad MD, Soliman AK, Mohareb EW, Medhat I, Zayed AB, Szumlas DE, Earhart KC In June, 2003, Egypt's hospital-based electronic disease surveillance system began to record increased cases of acute febrile illness from governorates in the Nile Delta. In response to a request for assistance from the Egyptian Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO), the Naval Medical Research Unit No. 3 provided assistance in identifying the cause and extent of this outbreak. Testing of human clinical samples (n=375) from nine governorates in Egypt identified 29 cases of RVF viremia that spanned the period of June to October, and a particular focus of disease in Kafr el Sheikh governorate (7.7% RVF infection rate). Veterinary samples (n=101) collected during... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877224 Thu, 05 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877224 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4877223&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21570940%26dopt%3DAbstract In conclusion it should be emphasized that malaria transmission is a complex process in Bashagard. This event is attributed to five proven vectors with different behaviors which are active in the area. Regarding tolerance of vectors to deltamethrin, resistance management is suggested by using new insecticide with novel mode of action. PMID: 21570940 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4877223 Thu, 05 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4877223 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824426&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21565149%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Keating J, Locatelli A, Gebremichael A, Ghebremeskel T, Mufunda J, Mihreteab S, Berhane D, Carneiro P This paper examines the relationship between indoor residual spray (IRS) and malaria parasite infection in Gash Barka Zone, Eritrea, an area with near universal coverage of insecticide treated bednets (ITN) and already low malaria parasite prevalence. A community randomized control trial was conducted in 2009. Malaria parasite infection prevalence was 0.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37-0.78%], with no significant difference detected between treatment and control areas. ITN possession remains high, with over 70% of households reporting ITN ownership [95% CI: 68.4-72.9]. ITN use among individuals within ITN-owning households was just under half [46.7% (95% CI: 45.4-48.0)].... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824426 Tue, 03 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824425&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21565150%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Escobedo AA, Almirall P, Alfonso M, Avila I, Cimerman S, Salazar Y, Dawkins IV, García RM Although long considered a non-pathogenic protozoan, Giardia lamblia is now a well recognized cause of abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea and failure-to-thrive in children. The overall prevalence of this infection in Cuban population is about 7.2%; however, higher prevalences have been found among young children attending day-care centres and primary school in the country. Anecdotally, clinical giardiasis is generally considered to place a large burden on both diagnostic and treatment services in Cuba. In order to gain insight into caregivers' perspectives with respect to this infection in children, a qualitative study was carried out in a paediatric hospital in Cuba. Focus group discussion... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824425 Tue, 03 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824427&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21550332%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Victoria CM, Darío V, Eduardo CA Wetlands have traditionally been associated with harbouring mosquitoes, but the effect of the land use on their communities has not been thoroughly studied. We characterized the ground-water habitat availability and mosquito species richness and composition during a year-round survey in the predominant land uses (domestic areas, Salicaceae plantations, secondary forests and Scirpus giganteus marshes) of the Paraná Lower Delta, Argentina. Each land use presented a characteristically different number, composition, and diversity of ground-water habitats, and harboured mosquitoes throughout the year. Nearly half of the 824 habitats examined, consisting of 10 types, were positive for immatures. We identified 23 species from 7 genera, with Culex an... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824427 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824428&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21549680%26dopt%3DAbstract This study was conducted to determine the effects of increased water temperatures on the development of Aedes aegypti immatures under laboratory conditions in Trinidad, West Indies using temperature regulated water baths to cover a range of temperatures from 24-25°C to 34-35°C at a relative humidity of 80%. Two experiments were designed: (1) at constant temperature regimens and (2) under diurnal temperature regimens ranging from 24-25°C to 34-35°C. At 24-25°C egg hatching success was 98% at 48h, however at 34-35°C egg hatching rates declined to 1.6% after 48h. Ae. aegypti larvae reared under constant temperature regimens showed pupation on day 4 with highest pupation occurring at 30°C (78.4%) However, under diurnal temperature regimens, pupation began on day 4 but only at the higher... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824428 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824428 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824429&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21530477%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kaur J, Kaur T, Kaur S Visceral leishmaniasis, a chronic systemic infection, is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in many parts of world. The current drugs for the treatment of leishmaniasis are toxic, expensive, difficult to administer and becoming ineffective due to the emergence of drug resistance. In the absence of effective treatment, vaccination remains the only hope for control of the disease. We have evaluated the protective efficacy of two heat shock proteins (Hsp70 and Hsp83) in combination with two different adjuvants (MPLA and ALD) in Leishmania donovani infected inbred BALB/c mice. The proteins were isolated by SDS-PAGE and the mice were immunized subcutaneously with Hsp70+Hsp83, Hsp70+Hsp83+ALD and Hsp70+Hsp83+MPLA. These were challenged with 10(7) proma... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824429 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824430&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21527240%26dopt%3DAbstract This study used mosquito habitat data collected in six different time periods and four different modelling approaches to establish 24 mosquito habitat models. We systematically tested the generality of these 24 mosquito habitat models. We found that although habitat-environment relationships change temporally, a modest level of performance was attained when validating the models using data collected from different time periods. We also describe flexible approaches to the predictive modelling of mosquito habitats, that provide novel modelling architecture for future research efforts. PMID: 21527240 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824430 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824433&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21515239%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Laurenzo D, Mousa SA Drug-resistant tuberculosis has become a global problem and a major public health concern. While mechanisms of resistance are fairly well characterized for most agents, particularly the first line agents, our knowledge of drug resistance is by no means exhaustive, and strains continue to emerge that carry novel resistance-related mutations. The purpose of this review is to summarize our current understanding of the genetic basis of drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, highlighting emerging areas of research. The development of rapid detection methods has been a major breakthrough in the fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis. Rapid detection methods are available for both rifampin- and isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis, but have yet to be devel... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824433 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824432&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21524640%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rezanezhad H, Menegon M, Sarkari B, Hatam GR, Severini C Plasmodium vivax is still the more prevalent human Plasmodium outside Africa and despite this fact, there is still a deep lack of knowledge on its biology. Metacaspases are cysteine proteases related to metazoan caspases, involved in programmed cell death. Here, we have characterized the P. vivax metacaspase 1 gene in a total of 63 vivax isolates, 32 isolates collected in southern Iran and 31 Italian imported isolates originating from 12 different endemic countries. We have firstly identified DNA size polymorphism in P. vivax metacaspase 1 gene. A total of four different allelic sizes were found, resulting from the insertion of 1 to 4 tandem repeat units located within the intronic region of the P. vivax metacaspase 1. S... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824432 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824431&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21524641%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Ramírez JD, Duque MC, Guhl F Chagas disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi comprises an important problem of public health in the Americas. This parasite has been recently divided into six Discrete Typing Units (DTUs) due to its high genetic diversity. We sequenced the Cytochorme b (Cytb) gene of 70 T. cruzi I Colombian clones finding four genotypes related to transmission cycles of Chagas disease in Colombia and also to specific hosts of T. cruzi. The genotypes herein described based on Cytb gene sequences are in accordance with those found using the mini-exon gene and reveals once again the enormous genetic diversity at sub-DTU level evidenced in T. cruzi I. PMID: 21524641 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824431 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824434&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21515238%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Cui L, Yan G, Sattabongkot J, Chen B, Cao Y, Fan Q, Parker D, Sirichaisinthop J, Su XZ, Yang H, Yang Z, Wang B, Zhou G Despite significant improvement in the malaria situation of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), malaria control for the region continues to face a multitude of challenges. The extremely patchy malaria distribution, especially along international borders, makes disease surveillance and targeted control difficult. The vector systems are also diverse with dramatic differences in habitat ecology, biting behavior, and vectorial capacity, and there is a lack of effective transmission surveillance and control tools. Finally, in an era of heavy deployment of artemisinin-based combination therapies, the region acts as an epicenter of drug resistance, with the emergence... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824434 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824437&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21510915%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wisedpanichkij R, Grams R, Chaijaroenkul W, Na-Bangchang K The aim of the present study was to find evidence for a homologous protein of the mammalian cytochrome P450 family member CYP2B1/B2 in Plasmodium falciparum at the nucleic acid level. Prior research had demonstrated enzyme activity in the parasite comparable to mammalian CYP1A, 2A, 2B and 2E enzymes and presence of CYP enzymes by spectrophotometric and electrophoretic analyses. In recent years, the transcriptome/proteome data of P. falciparum and other Plasmodium spp. have been published and we performed an in silico analysis to identify putative cytochrome P450 family members in the parasite. This analysis failed to identify homologs to CYP1A, 2A, 2B and 2E enzymes in Plasmodium. A prior study had also claimed the pre... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824437 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824435&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21513694%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Oshaghi MA, Vatandoost H, Gorouhi A, Abai MR, Madjidpour A, Arshi S, Sadeghi H, Nazari M, Mehravaran A Malaria is still one of the most important health-problems in the world and is endemic in Iran. Since 1994, after collapse of former Soviet Union, a new threat of malaria importation emerged from those countries into the northern Iran. This work was carried out to provide further evidence on the status of anopheline species composition, the malaria parasite species, and natural infectivity of mosquitoes distributed in Pars-Abad district, on the borderline of Azerbaijan in northwestern Iran. Mosquitoes were collected from May to December 2008 in anopheline seasonal activity and were identified at the species level. The genus- and species-specific primers against Plasmodium ssr... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824435 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824438&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21501582%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kyelem D, Fischer PU, Brattig NW PMID: 21501582 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824438 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824436&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21510916%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Guhl F, Ramírez JD Trypanosoma cruzi the aethiological agent of Chagas disease, a complex zoonoses that affects the American continent is a genetically variable parasite subdivided into six Discrete Typing Units (DTUs). T. cruzi I is the most prevalent DTU affecting the northern countries of America with sporadical cases in the southern countries. T. cruzi I has shown great genetic diversity showing plausible subdivisions needed for this group. Recently, TcI has gained novel importance because of the lately discovered relation with cardiomyopathy manifestations that raises the importance of establishing subdivisions within this DTU. PMID: 21510916 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Acta Tropica) Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824436 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4824439&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21497586%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Restrepo E, Imwong M, Rojas W, Carmona-Fonseca J, Maestre A Genetic diversity of Plasmodium populations has been more extensively documented in Colombia for Plasmodium falciparum than for Plasmodium vivax. Recently, highly variable microsatellite markers have been described and used in population-level studies of genetic variation of P. vivax throughout the world. We applied this approach to understand the genetic structure of P. vivax populations and to identify recurrence-associated haplotypes. In this, three microsatellite markers of P. vivax were amplified and the combined size of the fragments was used to establish genotypes. Patients from an ongoing treatment efficacy trial who were kept either in endemic or non-endemic regions in the northwest of Colombia were included ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4824439 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4824439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4720866&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21470555%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: S B, A D H Successful Public-private partnerships for health control have usually included nongovernmental development organisations (NGDOs), and these have long been in the forefront of pinpointing particular social and health issues. The immensely successful control and elimination programmes for onchocerciasis are a case in point. NGDOs were the driving force in early advocacy for onchocerciasis control in West Africa, leading eventually to the remarkably effective and long lasting partnership of the Onchocerciasis Control Programme (OCP). With the donation of Mectizan®, NGDOs were the driving force in developing onchocerciasis control in non OCP countries, especially programmes for community based action. These were, further modified by the African Programme for Onchocerc... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4720866 Sat, 02 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4720866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4720865&cid=s_34374_20_f&fid=34374&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21470556%26dopt%3DAbstract In this study we developed a rapid qualitative technique of identifying communities where morbidity management programme could be situated and documenting the pain and distress that afflicted persons endure. Estimates given by health personnel and by community resource persons were compared with systematic household surveys for the number of persons with lymphoedema of the lower limb. Communities in Northeastern Nigeria, with the largest number of lymphoedema cases were selected and a study of local knowledge, physical, psychosocial burden and intervention-seeking activities associated with the disease documented using an array of techniques (including household surveys, key informant interviews, group discussions and informal conversations). Health personnel gave a more accurate estimate ... Acta Tropica journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4720865 Sat, 02 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4720865