bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Efficacy of High-Dose Infusions of a Preformed Amphotericin B Fat Emulsion for Treatment of Indian Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Sundar S. , Singh A. , Agarwal D. , Rai M. , Agrawal N. , Chakravarty J.
Published: September 2018

Amphotericin B deoxycholate is used as a first-line drug for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in India. Its major drawbacks are prolonged hospitalization of treated patients and toxicity. An open label phase II study with pre-formed amphotericin B lipid emulsion (ABLE) was conducted to evaluate safety and efficacy of four regimens of 15 mg/kg each administered in 1–2 doses. Regimen 1 was 7.5 mg/kg/day on day 1 and day 3, and regimen 4 was a single bolus infusion of 15 mg/kg. The safety profile was excellent with mild infusion reactions seen in 38% of the patients. Definitive cure was achieved in 100% of the patients treated with regimen 4. The overall cure rate was 87% (95% confidence interval = 75–94%). In this study, ABLE was safe and had excellent efficacy when given as a bolus of 15 mg/kg. More studies with larger number of patients and higher doses are needed to establish acceptable, safe and efficacious regimen.
Disruption of Nod-like Receptors Alters Inflammatory Response to Infection but Does Not Confer Protection in Experimental Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Finney Constance A. M. , Lu Ziyue , LeBourhis Lionel , Philpott Dana J. , Kain Kevin C.
Published: September 2018

Research relating to host inflammatory processes during malaria infection has focused on Toll-like receptors, membrane-bound receptors implicated in innate sensing, and phagocytosis of parasitized erythrocytes by host cells. This is the first study to examine the role of Nod proteins, members of the Nod-like receptor (NLR) family of cytoplasmic proteins involved in pathogen recognition, in a murine model of cerebral malaria (Plasmodium berghei ANKA, PbA). Here, we find that nod1nod2−/− mice infected with PbA show no difference in survival or parasitemia compared with wild-type infected animals. However, cytokine levels, notably those associated with NLR activation including interleukin (IL)1-β, KC, and MCP-1, and proteins linked to malaria pathogenesis, such as interferon-γ (IFN-γ), were decreased in the nod-1nod2−/− animals. We therefore demonstrate for the first time that Nod proteins are activated in response to parasites, and they play a role in regulating host inflammatory responses during malaria infection.
Effect of Existing Practices on Reducing Aedes aegypti Pre-adults in Key Breeding Containers in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Tsuzuki Ataru , Huynh Trang , Tsunoda Takashi , Luu Loan , Kawada Hitoshi , Takagi Masahiro
Published: September 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of existing practices of residents in reducing pre-adult Aedes aegypti (L.) infestation and to assess the effect of dengue-related knowledge on the practices. A house-to-house survey was conducted in two areas with different socioeconomic status in Ho Chi Minh City between October and November 2007. Some residents in both the areas used covers on the productive containers such as the jars and plastic buckets (i.e., 58% and 81% in the two study areas), and it was effective in reducing Ae. aegypti infestation: odds ratio (OR) of 4.0 and 4.9 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–10.76 and 1.2–19.57, respectively) for the containers with inappropriate covers compared with those with appropriate covers in the two areas, respectively. Appropriate cover use was an effective practice; however, no beneficial role of the knowledge related to dengue in promoting the practice was identified.
Antifilarial Activity of 1,3-Diarylpropen-1-One: Effect on Glutathione-S-Transferase, a Phase II Detoxification Enzyme
Authors: Awasthi Satish K. , Mishra Nidhi , Dixit Sandeep Kumar , Singh Alka , Yadav Marshleen , Yadav Sudhanshu S. , Rathaur Sushma
Published: September 2018

Chalcone derivatives were evaluated for their antifilarial activity on Setaria cervi using glutathione-S-transferase (GST) as a drug target. The compounds 1-(4-benzotriazol-1-yl-phenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (5), and 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(4-pyrrolidin-1-yl-phenyl) prop-2-en-1-one (7) showed a significant suppression (P < 0.01) in GST activity of adult female parasite extract at 3 μM concentration in vitro. However, GST activity was detected along with depletion in GSH level. Except Compounds 1 and 2, all exhibited a significant effect on the motility and viability of adult parasites. Compounds 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(4-piperidin-1-yl-phenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (3), 1-(4-benzotriazol-1-yl-phenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (5), and 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(4-pyrrolidin-1-yl-phenyl) prop-2-en-1-one (7) exhibited major irreversible effects on viability and resulted in parasite death and also inhibited the GST activity by 84–100% in vitro. We report for the first time the antifilarial activity of chalcones on GST of adult parasites. This study also strengthens our previous findings where GST is reported as a potential drug target for antifilarials.
Assessing Transmission of Lymphatic Filariasis Using Parasitologic, Serologic, and Entomologic Tools after Mass Drug Administration in American Samoa
Authors: Mladonicky Janice M. , King Jonathan D. , Liang Jennifer L. , Chambers Eric , Pa’au Molisamoa , Schmaedick Mark A. , Burkot Thomas R. , Bradley Mark , Lammie Patrick J.
Published: September 2018

Assessing the interruption of lymphatic filariasis transmission after annual mass drug administration (MDA) requires a better understanding of how to interpret results obtained with the available diagnostic tools. We conducted parasitologic, serologic, and entomologic surveys in three villages in American Samoa after sentinel site surveys suggested filarial antigen prevalence was < 1% after five annual MDAs with diethylcarbamazine and albendazole. Antigen and antifilarial antibody prevalence ranged from 3.7% to 4.6% and from 12.5% to 14.9%, respectively, by village. Only one person was microfilaria positive. Although no children less than 10 years of age were antigen positive, antifilarial antibody prevalence in this age group was 5.1% and antibody-positive children were detected in all three villages. Wuchereria bancrofti–infected mosquitoes were also detected in all three villages. Thus, monitoring of infections in mosquitoes and antifilarial antibody levels in children may serve as indicators of local transmission and be useful for making decisions about program endpoints.
Management of Chronic Strongyloidiasis in Immigrants and Refugees: Is Serologic Testing Useful?
Authors: Biggs Beverley-Ann , Caruana Sonia , Mihrshahi Seema , Jolley Damien , Leydon Jenne , Chea Ley , Nuon Sophy
Published: September 2018

We assessed the usefulness of serologic testing in monitoring strongyloidiasis in immigrants after treatment with two doses of ivermectin. An observational study was conducted in a group of Cambodian immigrants residing in Melbourne who were treated for strongyloidiasis and followed-up in a general practice setting. Two doses of ivermectin (200 μg/kg) were administered orally. Periodic serologic enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay testing was undertaken for up to 30 months after treatment. Antibody titers for Strongyloides sp. decreased in 95% (38 of 40) of the patients, 47.5% (19 of 40) had a decrease in optical density to less than 0.5, and 65% (26 of 40) reached levels consistent with a cure during the follow-up period. Serologic testing for Strongyloides sp. is a useful tool for monitoring a decrease in antibody levels after effective treatment. This testing should be carried out 6–12 months after treatment to ensure a sustained downward trend suggestive of cure.
The Profile of Health Problems in African Immigrants Attending an Infectious Disease Unit in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Gibney Katherine B. , Mihrshahi Seema , Torresi Joseph , Marshall Caroline , Leder Karin , Biggs Beverley-Ann
Published: September 2018

The number of African immigrants living in Western countries is increasing. A retrospective audit of sub-Saharan African patients attending the infectious diseases clinics of a Melbourne teaching hospital was performed. A total of 375 patients were included. Helicobacter pylori gastritis was diagnosed in 60% of those tested (35/58), schistosomiasis in 41% (84/206), chronic hepatitis B in 19% (32/167), and strongyloidiasis in 18% (32/179). Active tuberculosis (TB) affected 18% (51/276) and latent TB 55% (152/276). Pathologic parasites were detected in stool in 21% (31/145). Vitamin D deficiency (< 50 nmol/L) affected 73% (139/191), anemia 17% (52/312), iron deficiency 15% (22/151), and low neutrophil count 25% (78/312). Infectious diseases, vitamin D deficiency, anemia, and latent TB were common in sub-Saharan African immigrants. Clinicians need to be aware of these conditions to meet the health needs of this group. Comprehensive health checks should be encouraged for new arrivals, particularly from high-risk areas.
Monkey Malaria in Humans: A Diagnostic Dilemma with Conflicting Laboratory Data
Authors: Ong Catherine W. M. , Lee Shir Ying , Koh Wee Hong , Ooi Eng-Eong , Tambyah Paul A.
Published: September 2018

Plasmodium knowlesi has recently been recognized as the fifth Plasmodium species causing malaria in humans. Diagnosis is difficult morphologically, and currently, available rapid tests have not been comprehensively evaluated with this pathogen. We report a case of P. knowlesi malaria that was confirmed after the initial clue of discordant microscopy and immunochromatographic results, highlighting the importance of molecular diagnostics in cases with the relevant clinical and epidemiologic history.
Clinical Efficacy of Saccharomyces boulardii and Metronidazole Compared to Metronidazole Alone in Children with Acute Bloody Diarrhea Caused by Amebiasis: A Prospective, Randomized, Open Label Study
Authors: Dinleyici Ener C. , Eren Makbule , Yargic Zeynel A. , Dogan Nihal , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: September 2018

The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of Saccharomyces boulardii (Sb) in addition to metronidazole in amebiasis. A prospective, randomized, open clinical trial was performed in 50 children presenting with acute bloody diarrhea caused by Entameba histolytica. Group A and B (each N = 25) was treated with metronidazole, but Sb (250 mg, twice daily) during the 7 days was added to Group B patients who were re-evaluated 2, 3, 5, 10, and 30 days after diagnosis. Duration of bloody diarrhea was significantly longer in Group A (72.0 ± 28.5 versus 42.2 ± 17.4 hours, P < 0.001). On day 5, amebic cysts had disappeared in all children in Group B, whereas in Group A, amebic cysts were still present in 6 children (P < 0.05). On day 10, all children were cured and cysts had disappeared in all. The addition of Sb to metronidazole in amebiasis significantly decreases duration of (bloody) diarrhea and enhances clearance of cysts.
Reduction in Levels of Plasma Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A and Improvement in Hydrocele Patients by Targeting Endosymbiotic Wolbachia sp. in Wuchereria bancrofti with Doxycycline
Authors: Debrah Alexander Y. , Mand Sabine , Marfo-Debrekyei Yeboah , Batsa Linda , Pfarr Kenneth , Lawson Bernard , Taylor Mark , Adjei Ohene , Hoerauf Achim
Published: September 2018

The treatment for hydrocele is expensive, invasive surgery—hydrocelectomy. A drug that could prevent or improve this condition could replace or supplement hydrocelectomy. In Ghana, 42 hydrocele patients participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of a six-week regimen of doxycycline, 200 mg/day. Four months after doxycycline treatment, patients received 150 μg/kg of ivermectin and 400 mg of albendazole, which is used for mass chemotherapy in this area. Patients were monitored for levels of Wolbachia sp., microfilaremia, antigenemia, plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) and stage/size of the hydrocele. Wolbachia sp. loads/microfilaria, microfilaremia, and antigenemia were significantly reduced in the doxycycline-treated patients compared with the placebo group. The mean plasma levels of VEGF-A were decreased significantly in the doxycycline-treated patients who had active infection. This finding preceded the reduction of the stage of hydrocele. A six-week regimen of doxycycline treatment against filariasis showed amelioration of pathologic conditions of hydrocele patients with active infection.
In-Depth Assessment of an Outbreak of Nipah Encephalitis with Person-to-Person Transmission in Bangladesh: Implications for Prevention and Control Strategies
Authors: Blum Lauren S. , Khan Rasheda , Nahar Nazmun , Breiman Robert F.
Published: September 2018

Continued Nipah encephalitis outbreaks in Bangladesh highlight the need for preventative and control measures to reduce transmission from bats to humans and human-to-human spread. Qualitative research was conducted at the end of an encephalitis outbreak in Faridpur, Bangladesh in May 2004 and continued through December 2004. Methods included in-depth interviews with caretakers of cases, case survivors, neighbors of cases, and health providers. Results show contrasts between local and biomedical views on causal explanations and appropriate care. Social norms demanded that family members maintain physical contact with sick patients, potentially increasing the risk of human-to-human transmission. Initial treatment strategies by community members involved home remedies, and public health officials encouraged patient hospitalization. Over time, communities linked the outbreak to supernatural powers and sought care with spiritual healers. Differing popular and medical views of illness caused conflict and rejection of biomedical recommendations. Future investigators should consider local perceptions of disease and treatment when developing outbreak strategies.
Efficacy of Protocols for Cleaning and Disinfecting Infant Feeding Bottles in Less Developed Communities
Authors: Ma Li , Zhang Guodong , Swaminathan Balasubr , Doyle Michael , Bowen Anna
Published: September 2018

Although breastfeeding is the best choice for most infants, infant formula is used widely, commonly introduced during the neonatal period, and usually given to infants in bottles that can be difficult to clean. We artificially contaminated infant feeding bottles with low and high inocula of bacterial enteric pathogens and evaluated the efficacy of several cleaning and chlorine disinfection protocols. Rinsing with soapy water followed by tap water was the most effective cleaning method and reduced pathogen load by 3.7 and 3.1 log10s at the low and high inoculum levels, respectively. Submersion in 50 ppm hypochlorite solution for 30 minutes produced a 3.7-log10 reduction in pathogens, resulting in no identifiable pathogens among bottles. This result was comparable to boiling. When combined with handwashing, use of safe water, and appropriate storage of prepared infant formula, these simple, inexpensive practices could improve the microbiological safety of infant formula feeding in less developed settings.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Opisthorchis viverrini Infections in a Rural Community in Thailand
Authors: Rangsin Ram , Mungthin Mathirut , Taamasri Paanjit , Mongklon Somporn , Aimpun Pote , Naaglor Tawee , Leelayoova Saovaanee
Published: September 2018

Opisthorchis viverrini infection is one of the major public health problems in Thailand. Although information about transmission of this parasite to humans is well established, infections are still prevalent in the northern and northeastern Thailand. Thus, prospective epidemiologic information is needed for developing more effective public health interventions. A cohort study to identify incidence and risk factors of O. viverrini infection was conducted in a rural community in Thailand during December 2002–February 2004. The incidence rate of opisthorchiasis was 21.6/100 person-years. The independent factors associated with opisthorchiasis were an age > 60 years and consuming chopped raw fish salad (Koi pla). Thus, avoiding this raw fish salad should be emphasized in the national control program.
Dose-Response Assay Templates for In vitro Assessment of Resistance to Benzimidazole and Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Agonist Drugs in Human Hookworms
Authors: Kotze Andrew C. , Lowe Ann , O’Grady John , Kopp Steven R. , Behnke Jerzy M.
Published: September 2018

With the implementation of mass drug administration programs for the control of human hookworms, there is a need to monitor for the emergence of drug resistance. We have therefore examined in vitro assays for monitoring sensitivity to benzimidazoles (egg hatch assay) and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist drugs (motility and morphology assays), with a view to developing tools for monitoring drug sensitivity in the field. We have performed assays with Necator americanus and Ancylostoma ceylanicum, and combined this with published data on N. americanus and Ancylostoma caninum, to indicate the breadth of the responses of various hookworm species and isolates in these in vitro assays. This has allowed us to generate assay templates covering the known range of responses, with scope to cover any shift in response that may be indicative of resistance. These assays will have immediate applicability in monitoring for the emergence of drug resistance in human hookworm populations.
A Community-based Survey of Human Toxoplasmosis in Rural Amazonia: Seroprevalence, Seroconversion Rate, and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Ferreira Marcelo U. , Hiramoto Roberto M. , Aureliano Débora P. , da Silva-Nunes Mônica , da Silva Natal S. , Malafronte Rosely S. , Muniz Pascoal T.
Published: September 2018

IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii were detected in, March–April 2004, in 65.8% (95% confidence interval, 60.8–70.8%) of 342 systematically sampled subjects 5–90 years of age (87.5% of the eligible) living in a rural settlement in Amazonia, with a seroconversion rate of 9% over 1 year of follow-up of 99 seronegative subjects. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified age as the only significant independent predictor of seropositivity at the baseline. Each additional year of age increases the odds of being seropositive by 6%, and 76.8% of the subjects are expected to be seropositive at 30 years of age. A single high-prevalence spatial cluster, comprising 11.9% of the seropositive subjects, was detected in the area; households in the cluster were less likely to have dogs as pets and their heads had a lower education level, when compared with households located outside the cluster. The challenges for preventing human toxoplasmosis in tropical rural settings are discussed.
Changes in West Nile Virus Seroprevalence and Antibody Titers among Wisconsin Mesopredators 2003–2006
Authors: Docherty Douglas E. , Samuel Michael D. , Egstad Kristina F. , Griffin Kathryn M. , Nolden Cherrie A. , Karwal Lovkesh , Ip Hon S.
Published: September 2018

After the 2001 occurrence of West Nile virus (WNV) in Wisconsin (WI), we collected sera, during 2003–2006, from south-central WI mesopredators. We tested these sera to determine WNV antibody prevalence and geometric mean antibody titer (GMAT). Four-fold higher antibody prevalence and 2-fold higher GMAT in 2003–2004 indicated greater exposure of mesopredators to WNV during the apparent epizootic phase. The period 2005–2006 was likely the enzootic phase because WNV antibody prevalence fell to a level similar to other flaviviruses. Our results suggest that, in mesopredators, vector-borne transmission is the primary route of infection and WNV antibodies persist for < 1 year. Mesopredators may be sensitive indicators of West Nile virus spill-over into humans and horses. Mesopredator sero-surveys may complement dead crow surveillance by providing additional data for the timing of public health interventions. Research is needed to clarify the dynamics of WNV infection in these mammals and their role as potential WNV amplifiers.
Improvement in Hospital Indicators after Changes in Dengue Case Management in Nicaragua
Authors: Rocha Crisanta , Silva Sheyla , Gordon Aubree , Hammond Samantha N. , Elizondo Douglas , Balmaseda Angel , Harris Eva
Published: September 2018

Dengue is a major problem worldwide, and improving case management is a significant priority. In consultation with colleagues in Thailand, changes in management of hospitalized dengue cases were introduced in Nicaragua, including oral rather than intravenous (IV) fluids upon admission, continuous monitoring of clinical and laboratory signs, and use of IV fluids principally during the critical phase and colloids in management of shock. Two periods were compared, before (2003) and after (2005) their implementation, to assess impact. In 2003, 182 hospitalized laboratory-confirmed dengue cases 0–14 years of age who presented ≤ 5 days post-symptom onset were included in the study; 46 were enrolled in 2005. Outcomes included significant reductions in days of IV fluid administration (
P
= 0.0001), number of patients receiving IV fluids (
P
< 0.0001), and duration of hospitalization (
P
< 0.0001), and a non-significant reduction in the number of admissions to the intensive care unit from 8 in 2003 to 0 in 2005 (
P
= 0.36). This study demonstrates concrete gains in dengue patient care and case management.
Persistent Eosinophilia and Strongyloides Infection in Montagnard Refugees after Presumptive Albendazole Therapy
Authors: Goswami Neela D. , Shah J. Jina , Corey G. Ralph , Stout Jason E.
Published: September 2018

Chronic helminth infections are common in refugee populations and may persist years after immigration. Asymptomatic Strongyloides stercoralis infection raises particular concern because of its potential for complications in immunosuppressed patients. We examined 172 Montagnard refugees resettled to Wake County, North Carolina from 2002 through 2003. Refugees were pretreated with albendazole for five days and screened for health conditions after arrival. Eosinophilia was present in 41 of 171 refugees at the first blood draw. Only 1 of 172 had a stool helminth (Fasciola) identified by microscopy. On repeat testing, 13 people had persistent eosinophilia. Results of serologic analysis for Strongyloides were available in 24 persons. Eosinophil counts decreased significantly after treatment with ivermectin in nine refugees (P = 0.039). Persistent eosinophilia, likely caused by Strongyloides infection, was common in this cohort of Montagnard refugees. Clinicians should understand the limitations of stool microscopy in diagnosis of strongyloidiasis, the limited effectiveness of albendazole in treating strongyloidiasis, and the importance of following-up refugees with persistent eosinophilia.
Cardiac Involvement in Trichinellosis: A Case of Left Ventricular Thrombosis
Authors: Tint Diana , Cocuz Maria E. , Ortan Ovidiu F. , Niculescu Mihai D. , Radoi Mariana
Published: September 2018

We report the case of a 42-year-old woman who was admitted to the hospital for fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, myalgia, and general muscle weakness. All these symptoms had occurred 3 weeks after the ingestion of inadequately cooked pork meat, subsequently confirmed to be infested with Trichinella spiralis. Laboratory results showed mild leukocytosis, inflammation, and mild liver and muscle cytolytic syndrome, all suggestive of trichinellosis. Echocardiography showed apical hypokinesis and an apical mass (likely a thrombus). The immunologic assessment for the presence of Trichinella antigens was positive. The outcome was favorable after treatment with an anticoagulant, an antiaggregant, prednisone, and mebendazole. Follow-up controls showed the absence of any symptoms and thrombus, with only mild electrocardiogram modifications still present.
Patterns of Organ Involvement in Recurrent Melioidosis
Authors: Limmathurotsakul Direk , Chaowagul Wipada , Day Nicholas P. J. , Peacock Sharon J.
Published: September 2018

Recurrent melioidosis can be caused by two different mechanisms: relapse or re-infection. We examined the pattern of organ involvement in the first and second episodes in individual patients. Evaluation of 140 patients with recurrence showed that similar patterns of disease occurred during the first and second episode, independent of whether this was caused by relapse or re-infection.
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Safety and Tolerability Study to Assess the Ophthalmic and Renal Effects of Tafenoquine 200 mg Weekly versus Placebo for 6 Months in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Leary Kevin J. , Riel Michael A. , Roy Michael J. , Cantilena Louis R. , Bi Daoqin , Brater D. Craig , van de Pol Corina , Pruett Khadeeja , Kerr Caron , Veazey James M. , Beboso Ronnie , Ohrt Colin
Published: September 2018

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to assess the effect of tafenoquine, 200 mg weekly for 6 months on ophthalmic and renal safety. This trial was carried out after observations in previous clinical trials that tafenoquine may be associated with the development of corneal deposits and elevations in serum creatinine. In 120 healthy volunteers who received tafenoquine or placebo in a 2:1 randomization, there was no effect on night vision or other ophthalmic indices measured. Persons taking tafenoquine also showed no difference in mean change in glomerular filtration rate (GFR, mL/s/1.73 m2) after 6 months of dosing, with a treatment difference of −0.061 (95% confidence interval, −0.168, 0.045), and non-inferiority margin of −0.247 mL/s/1.73 m2. Tafenoquine was well tolerated over the course of the study. The results of this study showed no clinically significant effects of tafenoquine on ophthalmic or renal function, and support its continued development as an antimalarial drug.
Common Genotypic Polymorphisms in Glutathione S-Transferases in Mild and Severe Falciparum Malaria in Tanzanian Children
Authors: Kavishe Reginald A. , Bousema Teun , Shekalaghe Seif A. , Sauerwein Robert W. , Mosha Frank W. , van der Ven Andre J. A. M. , Russel Frans G. M. , Koenderink Jan B.
Published: September 2018

Malaria infection induces oxidative stress in the host cells. Antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are responsible for fighting reactive oxygen species and reduction of oxidative stress. Common GST polymorphisms have been associated with susceptibility to different diseases whose pathologies involve oxidative stress. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that GST polymorphisms that lead to reduced or lack of enzyme activity are associated with severe Plasmodium falciparum malarial anemia. We studied the genotypic distribution of GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 polymorphisms between mild malaria (N = 107) and severe malarial anemia (N = 50) in Tanzanian children. We did not find a significant relationship with the GSTT1 polymorphism. GSTM1-null was higher in the severe malaria anemia group but the difference was not significant (P = 0.08). However, a significant association of GSTP1 I105V genotype with severe malarial anemia was discovered (26.0% against 10.3% mild malaria, P = 0.004). We concluded that GSTP1 and possibly GSTM1 may protect against severe falciparum malaria in children.
Exposure of Seasonal Migrant Workers to Onchocerca volvulus on Coffee Plantations in Guatemala
Authors: Lindblade Kim A. , Richards Michael , Richards Jane , Gonzalez Rodrigo J. , Cruz-Ortiz Nancy , Zea-Flores Guillermo , Morales Alba Lucia , Sauerbrey Mauricio , Castro Julio , Catú Eduard , Arana Byron , Richards Frank O. , Klein Robert E.
Published: September 2018

Onchocerciasis (river blindness), which is close to being eliminated from Guatemala through semiannual administration of ivermectin, is still transmitted in one area of the country that coincidentally receives an annual influx of migrant workers to harvest coffee. Migrant workers generally are not included in semiannual ivermectin treatments, but if infected could serve as a reservoir. We report on two studies undertaken to measure the exposure to onchocerciasis (presence of IgG4 antibodies to a recombinant Onchocerca volvulus antigen, OV-16) among migrant workers. During two coffee harvest seasons, 170 migrant workers with a history of working in the disease-endemic area were tested and 1 (0.6%, 95% confidence interval = 0–3.2%) was seropositive. This low rate of exposure in migrant workers indicates that they are unlikely to play a significant role in transmission of onchocerciasis and may indicate that transmission in the last remaining disease-endemic area of Guatemala is decreasing significantly.
Neurocysticercosis in the Infant of a Pregnant Mother with a Tapeworm
Authors: Asnis Deborah , Kazakov Jordan , Toronjadze Tamar , Bern Caryn , Garcia Hector H. , McAuliffe Isabel , Bishop Henry , Lee Lillian , Grossmann Rami , Garcia Minerva A. , Di John David
Published: September 2018

Taeniasis occurs after ingestion of undercooked pork infected with cysticerci. Most Taenia solium infections are mild; proglottids are rarely noticed in the feces. Cysticercosis develops with ingestion of eggs from a tapeworm carrier. Cysticercosis affects ~50 million people worldwide, and is seen mostly in Central and South America, sub-Saharan Africa, India, and Asia. We present a case of an 18-month-old child living in New York, who presented with seizures caused by neurocysticercosis. A family study found a 22-year-old mother, 7 months pregnant, positive for T. solium, which presented a management dilemma.
Host Feeding Patterns of Potential Vectors of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus at an Epizootic Focus in Tennessee
Authors: Cohen Sara B. , Lewoczko Kenneth , Huddleston Dora B. , Moody Erin , Mukherjee Sudeshna , Dunn John R. , Jones Timothy F. , Wilson Ron , Moncayo Abelardo C.
Published: September 2018

In 2006, 2,817 blood-fed mosquitoes were collected from the site of a 2005 eastern equine encephalitis outbreak in Chester County, TN. Using a polymerase chain reaction–based assay, 264 vertebrate hosts were identified from seven mosquito species. Culex erraticus and Cx. nigripalpus fed on a diversity of mammalian, avian, and reptilian hosts, whereas Anopheles quadrimaculatus and An. punctipennis were predominantly mammalophagic. Overall, 27% of Cx. nigripalpus, 16% of Cx. erraticus, and 7% of An. quadrimaculatus blood meals were acquired from avian hosts. No avian-derived blood meals were identified from An. punctipennis. The house finch, Carolina wren, and mourning dove were the most commonly identified avian host species. By incorporating this study with flight range, vector competence, and virus field isolation data, we assessed certain aspects of the enzootic and epizootic vectorial capacity of the mosquito species present at this outbreak site.
A New Species Concealed by Anopheles funestus Giles, a Major Malaria Vector in Africa
Authors: Spillings Belinda L. , Brooke Basil D. , Koekemoer Lizette L. , Chiphwanya John , Coetzee Maureen , Hunt Richard H.
Published: September 2018

The major malaria vector Anopheles funestus belongs to a group of morphologically similar species that are commonly distinguished from one another through the use of chromosomal and molecular techniques. Indoor resting collections of mosquitoes from Malawi were initially identified as An. funestus by morphology, but failed to have this confirmed by the species-specific polymerase chain reaction assay. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region 2 identified variations within the An. funestus-specific primer binding site and showed a sequence variation of 4.5% compared with An. funestus. Domain 3 analysis showed sequence variation of 1.5% from An. funestus. Cytogenetic analysis of the polytene chromosome banding arrangements showed that the specimens were homosequential with An. funestus, with fixed inverted arrangements of the 3a, 3b, and 5a inversions commonly polymorphic in An. funestus. The chromosomes of hybrid females showed levels of asynapsis typical of inter-species crosses. These molecular and cytogenetic observations support the conclusion that this Malawi population is a new species and it has provisionally been named An. funestus-like.
Criminal Law as Police Power: Serious Crime, Unsafe Protest and Risks to Public Safety
Authors: Sentas Vicki , Grewcock Michael
Published: September 2018

This article considers the deepening of police power in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, criminal law. It analyses the combined effects of four recent criminal law regimes that not only give the NSW Police Force more powers, but also reflect the significant role of institutional police power and the pre-emptive logic of criminal law. We examine: the introduction of serious crime prevention orders; the introduction of public safety orders; investigative detention powers in relation to terrorist acts; and confiscation, forfeiture and search powers, and trespass offences that target protests. Drawing on the work of ‘police power’ theorists, we argue that these new regimes illustrate the centrality of police power to the criminal law rather than a deviation from a putative, ‘normal’ criminal law.
Impact of Working Capital Management on Corporate Profitability- Empirical Evidence from Pharmaceutical Industry of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Rakibul , Hossain Mohammad Emdad , Hoq Mohammad Nazmul , Alam Md. Morshedul
Published: September 2018

Working capital management plays centric role in enhancing operational efficiency and their ultimate profitability. Globally financial managers have been searching the proper way on how to utilize working capital components which prolong profitability. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of working capital components on profitability indicators of selected pharmaceutical firms in Bangladesh. The paper used financial data of 9 pharmaceutical firms listed in Dhaka stock exchange (DSE) covered 2011-2015. Two methods were used in this study for analysis data set. Firstly, to measure the relationship between selected variables Pearson Correlation matrix was used. Secondly, multiple regression analysis was used to investigate the impact working capital components on profitability of selected pharmaceutical firms. The study also conducted Durbin Watson test to assess autocorrelation of selected variables. In this study the correlation matrix identified a negative correlation between working capital components and profitability, whereas regression analysis found number of days account receivable (AR) had significant positive and current ratio (CR) and debt ratio (DR) had appeared a significant negative impact on profitability.
Wetgeving en de toets der kritiek
Authors: van Gestel R.A.J.
Published: September 2018

Wetgeving en de toets der kritiek

De ex-antewetgevingstoetsing heeft sinds 1990 onder invloed van met name het streven naar vermindering en vereenvoudiging van regelgeving een hoge vlucht genomen. Het lijkt er echter op dat juist op het punt van deregulering en alternatieven voor wetgeving de meerwaarde ervan de afgelopen decennia beperkt is gebleven, mede omdat het toetsingsproces te veel gericht is op het vinden van consensus in plaats van het organiseren van kritiek en tegenspraak. Deze bijdrage stelt voor om een andere weg in te slaan, waarin meer nadruk ligt op procedurevoorschriften, afstandelijker toetsing en een meer systematische koppeling van ex-ante- en ex-postevaluatie.
Performance Evaluation of Wide-Angle Ultrathin Microwave Metamaterial Absorber with Polarization Independence
Authors: Kaur K. P. , Upadhyaya T.
Published: September 2018

A novel dual-band wide-angle ultra-thin absorber composed of dual closed-concentric ten-point stars with polarization independence is presented in this article. The ten-point stars formed resonators are engraved on low cost FR4 substrate. The EM absorber performance is studied in terms of electrical and physical parameters. The polarization independence is practically demonstrated using waveguide measurement method. The measured results are in good agreement with simulated results. The absorbance values of 99.37% and 97.18% are achieved at 2.13 GHz and 2.52 GHz, respectively. The presented absorber design is wide-angle RF absorber with high absorbance values of about 80% up to 60° under TE mode and 87% up to 75° of oblique incidence angle for TM mode excitations. The experimental results demonstrate the absorption effectiveness of the proposed design to be utilized in RF energy harvester modules for capturing ambient UMTS band signals and in RF absorber applications for S band radar systems. The presented absorber unit cell is ultrathin and compact with the thickness and size less than λ/56 mm and λ/5 mm, respectively, at lowest absorption frequency.
Quercetin attenuates hypertension induced by sodium fluoride via reduction in oxidative stress and modulation of HSP 70/ERK/PPARγ signaling pathways
Authors: Oyagbemi Ademola Adetokunbo , Omobowale Temidayo Olutayo , Ola‐Davies Olufunke Eunice , Asenuga Ebunoluwa Racheal , Ajibade Temitayo Olabisi , Adejumobi Olumuyiwa Abiola , Arojojoye Oluwatosin Adetola , Afolabi Jeremiah Moyinoluwa , Ogunpolu Blessing Seun , Falayi Olufunke Olubunmi , Hassan Fasilat Oluwakemi , Ochigbo Grace Onyeche , Saba Adebowale Benard , Adedapo Adeolu Alex , Yakubu Momoh Audu
Published: September 2018

Hypertension is one of the silent killers in the world with high mortality and morbidity. The exposure of humans and animals to fluoride and/or fluoride containing compounds is almost inevitable. This study investigated the modulatory effects of quercetin on sodium fluoride (NaF)‐induced hypertension and cardiovascular complications. Forty male rats were randomly separated into four groups (n =10). Group A animals served as the control, rats in Group B were exposed to 300 ppm of NaF, Groups C and D animals were exposed to 300 ppm of NaF along with quercetin orally at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg orally by gavage, while NaF was administered in drinking water, respectively, for a week. Administration of NaF caused severe hypertension as indicated with significant increases in the systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure, together with prolonged ventricular depolarization (QRS) and the time between the start of the Q wave and the end of the T wave in the heart's electrical cycle (QT) intervals when compared with controls. NaF significantly decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, caused increase in markers of oxidative stress and renal damage when compared with controls. Immunohistochemical staining revealed lower expressions of Hsp70, ERK, and PPARγ in the heart, kidney, and aorta of rats‐administered NaF relative to the controls. Together, quercetin co‐treatment with NaF restored blood pressure, normalized QRS interval, and improved antioxidant defense system. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(5):465–479, 2018
Physicochemical, textural, and in vitro starch digestion properties of nixtamalized maize flour and tortillas enriched with sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) bran
Authors: Buitimea‐Cantúa Nydia E. , de la Rosa‐Millán Julián
Published: September 2018

Background and objectives

Sorghum seeds generally undergo abrasive decortication to remove the pericarp and facilitate its use as food ingredient; from this process, sorghum bran (SB) is obtained in good quantities and is often discarded; however, it presents some functional properties and has been used to improve some baked products. In this work, we analyzed the impact of the substitution at 5% and 10% of SB to nixtamalized maize flour (NMF) in tortillas, in terms of their total dietary fiber (TDF) and its fractions (soluble and insoluble, respectively), and the effect of its addition on pasting profiles, in vitro starch digestion, predicted glycemic index (pGI), and some textural parameters such as firmness and rollability.

Findings

The incorporation of 10% SB had a dilution effect on the total starch and AMY in both composite flours and tortillas, but it significantly increased the peak viscosity (PV) and final viscosity (FV), as well as the insoluble dietary fiber (IDF), up to 20.05% more than the control tortilla, and this could be related to molecular interactions among fibers, protein, and starch molecules.

Conclusions

The additional fiber resulted in an improved texture and flexibility of tortillas, compared to their control. This behavior was related to the water absorption characteristics of SB and possible interactions with the starch molecules from NMF.

Significance and novelty

The addition of SB could be a good alternative to enhance the TDF content, promoting a lower pGI, and enhance the overall texture of maize tortillas.
Finite element modeling of near‐wall mass transport in cardiovascular flows
Authors: Hansen Kirk B. , Arzani Amirhossein , Shadden Shawn C.
Published: September 2018

Many cardiovascular processes involve mass transport between blood and the vessel wall. Finite element methods are commonly used to numerically simulate these processes. Cardiovascular mass transport problems are typically characterized by high Péclet numbers, requiring fine near‐wall mesh resolution as well as the use of stabilization techniques to avoid numerical instabilities. In this work, we develop a set of guidelines for solving high–Péclet‐number near‐wall mass transport problems using the finite element method. We use a steady, idealized test case to investigate the required mesh resolution and finite element basis order to accurately capture near‐wall concentration boundary layers, as well as the performance of several commonly used stabilization techniques. Linear tetrahedral meshes were found to outperform quadratic tetrahedral meshes of equivalent degrees of freedom, and the commonly used discontinuity‐capturing stabilization technique was found to be overly diffusive for these types of problems. Best practices derived from the idealized test case were then applied to a typical patient‐specific vascular blood flow modeling application, where it was found that the commonly applied technique of avoiding numerical difficulties by artificially increasing mass diffusivity provides qualitatively similar but quantitatively erroneous results.
Acculturation of Erasmus students: Using the multidimensional individual difference acculturation model framework
Authors: Berger Rita , Safdar Saba , Spieß Erika , Bekk Magdalena , Font Antoni
Published: September 2018

The present self‐report survey study examines the psychophysical (how they feel) and sociocultural (how they do) adjustment of Erasmus students (N = 223) in Spain and Germany. We adopted the comprehensive multidimensional individual difference acculturation framework to examine the acculturation process of Erasmus students. Using structural equation modeling, we tested specific hypotheses drawn from the framework, χ2(15) = 18.50, p = .24; χ2/df = 1.23, CFI = .99; and RMSEA = .03. In particular, we expected and found that students who reported high cultural and linguistic skills, high resilience, and a strong sense of identity had successful adaption in the host country. These students also reported high intercultural contact and low levels of psychophysical symptoms. Our findings highlight the relevance of core psychosocial factors in the adjustment of Erasmus students. The results have implications for universities accepting foreign students as we found successful adjustment will be hampered even for resilient students if they receive little social support from their university or limited mentoring to acquire appropriate skills.
Preoperative prediction of sentinel lymph node metastasis in breast cancer by radiomic signatures from dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Liu Chunling , Ding Jie , Spuhler Karl , Gao Yi , Serrano Sosa Mario , Moriarty Meghan , Hussain Shahid , He Xiang , Liang Changhong , Huang Chuan
Published: September 2018

Background

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) status is an important prognostic factor for patients with breast cancer, which is currently determined in clinical practice by invasive SLN biopsy.

Purpose

To noninvasively predict SLN metastasis in breast cancer using dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) intra‐ and peritumoral radiomics features combined with or without clinicopathologic characteristics of the primary tumor.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 163 breast cancer patients (55 positive SLN and 108 negative SLN).

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T, T1‐weighted DCE‐MRI.

Assessment

A total of 590 radiomic features were extracted for each patient from both intratumoral and peritumoral regions of interest. To avoid overfitting, the dataset was randomly separated into a training set (∼67%) and a validation set (∼33%). The prediction models were built with the training set using logistic regression on the most significant radiomic features in the training set combined with or without clinicopathologic characteristics. The prediction performance was further evaluated in the independent validation set.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U‐test, Spearman correlation, least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) regression, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed.

Results

Combining radiomic features with clinicopathologic characteristics, six features were automatically selected in the training set to establish the prediction model of SLN metastasis. In the independent validation set, the area under ROC curve (AUC) was 0.869 (NPV = 0.886). Using radiomic features alone in the same procedure, 4 features were selected and the validation set AUC was 0.806 (NPV = 0.824).

Data Conclusion

This is the first attempt to demonstrate the feasibility of using DCE‐MRI radiomics to predict SLN metastasis in breast cancer. Clinicopathologic characteristics improved the prediction performance. This study provides noninvasive methods to evaluate SLN status for guiding further treatment of breast cancer patients, and can potentially benefit those with negative SLN, by eliminating unnecessary invasive lymph node removal and the associated complications, which is a step further towards precision medicine.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:131–140.
Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Ultrasound‐Guided Fine‐Needle Aspiration for Assessing Suspected Deep Pelvic or Abdominal Recurrence in Gynecologic Cancer: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Subtil José Carlos , Alcázar Juan Luis , Betes Maria Teresa , Mínguez José Ángel , Zozaya Francisco Javier , Chacon Enrique , Manzour Nabil , Hidalgo Alberto , Lozano Maria Dolores , Muñoz‐Navas Miguel , Jurado Matías
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of gastrointestinal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) for histologic confirmation of cancer recurrence in women with gynecologic cancer.

Methods

This work was a retrospective cohort study comprising 46 consecutive women treated for gynecologic cancer and suspected of having a deep pelvic or abdominal recurrence on ultrasound imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography–computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging, evaluated at our institution from January 2010 to December 2017. Primary cancer was ovarian (n = 22), cervical (n = 13), endometrial (n = 4), sarcoma (n = 4), and other (n = 3). All women underwent EUS examinations for locating the lesion and guiding FNA. The results of FNA (benign/malignant) were assessed. Procedure‐related complications were recorded.

Results

The patients' mean age was 57.8 years. A total of 66 procedures were performed. Eleven women underwent 2 procedures; 2 women underwent 3 procedures; and 1 woman underwent 6 procedures at different times during the study period. In 1 case, no lesion was detected on the EUS assessment, and in 2 cases, FNA was not successful. Most lesions were located in the retroperitoneum or involved the intestine. Fine‐needle aspiration could be performed in 63 cases (94.5%). Cytologic samples were adequate in 62 of 63 (98.4%). Recurrence was confirmed in 56 cases (90.3%) and ruled out in 6 (9.7%). No patient had any complication related to the procedure.

Conclusions

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided FNA is a minimally invasive, feasible, and safe technique for confirming pelvic/abdominal recurrence of gynecologic cancer.