bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE ADDITION OF ARTESUNATE TO CHLOROQUINE FOR TREATMENT OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA IN GAMBIAN CHILDREN DELAYS, BUT DOES NOT PREVENT TREATMENT FAILURE
Authors: SUTHERLAND COLIN J. , DRAKELEY CHRISTOPHER J. , OBISIKE UCHE , COLEMAN ROSALIND , JAWARA MUSA , TARGETT GEOFFREY A. T. , MILLIGAN PAUL , PINDER MARGARET , WALRAVEN GIJS
Published: September 2018

In a randomized controlled trial, chloroquine monotherapy was compared with the combination of artesunate and chloroquine for treating uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in 536 Gambian children. Chloroquine-treated children exhibited a 28-day clinical failure rate of 15% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 9.2–22%) compared with 11% (7.8–15%) among children receiving the combination (P = 0.08, by Wilcoxon test). Seventy-three percent of chloroquine-treated children exhibited parasitemia during follow-up compared with 49% of children receiving the combination (relative risk = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.3–1.7; χ2 = 21.18, P < 0.001). A significant reduction in clinical and parasitologic treatment failure in the combination group occurred in the first two weeks following treatment, but this was eroded over weeks three and four of follow-up. The impact of combination therapy on the transmission of chloroquine-resistant parasites is discussed. Chloroquine plus artesunate is not sufficiently efficacious to justify its introduction as a replacement for chloroquine monotherapy in The Gambia.
POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION–BASED DIFFERENTIATION OF THE MOSQUITO SIBLING SPECIES ANOPHELES CLAVIGER S.S. AND ANOPHELES PETRAGNANI (DIPTERA: CULICIDAE)
Authors: KAMPEN HELGE , STERNBERG ANJA , PROFT JANA , BASTIAN SANDRA , SCHAFFNER FRANCIS , MAIER WALTER A. , SEITZ HANNS M.
Published: September 2018

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–based diagnostic assay was developed that rapidly and reliably differentiates the sibling species of the Anopheles claviger complex, An. claviger s.s. and An. petragnani. The assay makes use of nucleotide differences in the internal transcribed spacer 2 ribosomal DNA sequences to generate PCR products of specific length for each of the two species. In evaluating the test, 580 of 592 field-collected An. claviger s.l. specimens were unambiguously identified as one of the two sibling species. Due to poor DNA quality, the remaining 12 specimens yielded no PCR product. Of the 592 mosquitoes, 407 larval specimens had been identified morphologically prior to species-specific DNA amplification, and in all instances PCR identification corroborated with morphologic identification. Mosquitoes identified as An. claviger s.s. came from various localities all over Europe and from Israel. Those identified as An. petragnani were collected in southern France and Spain. The species-diagnostic PCR assay would facilitate data collection on the temporal and spatial distribution of the two An. claviger sibling species because they represent possible vectors of disease in Europe, the Near and Middle East, and north Africa.
ENHANCEMENT OF THE EFFICACY OF A COMBINATION OF MESOCYCLOPS ASPERICORNIS AND BACILLUS THURINGIENSIS VAR. ISRAELENSIS BY COMMUNITY-BASED PRODUCTS IN CONTROLLING AEDES AEGYPTI LARVAE IN THAILAND
Authors: KOSIYACHINDA PAHOL , BHUMIRATANA AMARET , KITTAYAPONG PATTAMAPORN
Published: September 2018

Prolonged efficacy of a combination of bacteria (Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis [Bti] and copepods (Mesocyclops aspericornis) in controlling immature forms of Aedes aegypti in peridomestic water containers was achieved by adding various products from local villages as supplementary food for copepods. In all experiments, 100 first-instar larvae were added into the breeding containers every day for eight weeks. Combinations of biological control agents and each local supplementary food were applied once at the beginning of the experiment. At the end of the experiment, the average number of mosquito larvae in containers with a combination of copepods and Bti with one gram of rice grain had decreased to only 0.5% of that with no control agent. In comparison, the average numbers of mosquito larvae in containers with Bti only, or copepods only, were approximately 10% and 33% of those in containers with no control agents, respectively. In addition, the number of copepods in containers with mosquito larvae and supplementary food was at least three times higher than those with mosquito larvae alone.
SHORT REPORT: LIMITED AND SHORT-LASTING HUMORAL RESPONSE IN TAENIA SOLIUM: SEROPOSITIVE HOUSEHOLDS COMPARED WITH PATIENTS WITH NEUROCYSTICERCOSIS
Authors: MEZA-LUCAS ANTONIO , CARMONA-MIRANDA LAURA , GARCÍA-JERÓNIMO ROBERTO C. , TORRERO-MIRANDA ALEJANDRA , GONZÁLEZ-HIDALGO GERMÁN , LÓPEZ-CASTELLANOS GUILLERMO , CORREA DOLORES
Published: September 2018

Epidemiologic data suggest that 30–40% of Taenia solium-seropositive people become spontaneously negative without acquiring cysticercosis. To compare the responses of these individuals with those of patients with neurocysticercosis, we screened seropositive persons among family members of 16 patients. We searched for specific antibodies in patients and their 118 households by an enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot assay using specific glycoproteins of T. solium metacestodes. We found six seropositive individuals without neurocysticercosis among members of four families. The matching patients were young, harbored viable cysts, and had short evolution of disease. The baseline response of healthy seropositive individuals was scarce and showed a low frequency of antibodies against glycoproteins GP39-42 and GP24, which are immunodominant in patients with neurocysticercosis. Moreover, they became spontaneously negative in few months. The response of patients was heterogeneous as shown in other studies. The results of this work support a highly dynamic host-parasite immunologic interaction and suggest individual susceptibility or level of exposure among family members.
ASSOCIATION OF INTRALEUKOCYTIC PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA PIGMENT WITH DISEASE SEVERITY, CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS, AND PROGNOSIS IN SEVERE MALARIA
Authors: LYKE KIRSTEN E. , DIALLO DAPA A. , DICKO ALASSANE , KONE ABDOULAYE , COULIBALY DRISSA , GUINDO ANDO , CISSOKO YACOUBA , SANGARE LANSANA , COULIBALY SEYDOU , DAKOUO BLAISE , TAYLOR TERRIE E. , DOUMBO OGOBARA K. , PLOWE CHRISTOPHER V.
Published: September 2018

Peripheral parasite density of Plasmodium falciparum is used as an indicator of malaria disease severity, but does not quantify central sequestration, which is important in the pathogenesis of severe disease. Malaria pigment, recognizable within the cytoplasm of phagocytic cells by light microscopy may represent a peripheral marker for parasite biomass. One hundred seventy-two index cases of severe malaria and 172 healthy age-, residence-, and ethnicity-matched controls with uncomplicated malaria in Bandiagara, Mali were analyzed prospectively for presence of malaria pigment. The presence of polymorphonuclear cell (PMN) and monocyte pigment was strongly associated with severe disease compared with uncomplicated malaria. Total PMN pigment burden in children with severe malaria was higher in those with cerebral manifestations and with combined cerebral manifestations and severe anemia (hemoglobin ≤ 5 g/dL) but was not associated with hyperparasitemia (> 500,000 asexual forms/mm3). Additionally, pigmented PMNs/mm3 was associated with a fatal outcome in patients with severe malaria. This study validates the presence of malaria pigment in monocytes and neutrophils as a marker for disease severity, and demonstrates that pigmented neutrophils are associated with cerebral malaria and with death in children with severe malaria.
EPIZOOTIC ACTIVITY OF MURRAY VALLEY ENCEPHALITIS AND KUNJIN VIRUSES IN AN ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY IN THE SOUTHEAST KIMBERLEY REGION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA: RESULTS OF MOSQUITO FAUNA AND VIRUS ISOLATION STUDIES
Authors: BROOM ANNETTE K. , LINDSAY MICHAEL D. A. , WRIGHT ANTHONY E. , SMITH DAVID W. , MACKENZIE JOHN S.
Published: September 2018

We undertook annual surveys of flavivirus virus activity in the community of Billiluna of Western Australia in the southeast Kimberley region between 1989 and 2001. Culex annulirostris was the dominant mosquito species, particularly in years of above average rains and flooding. Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) virus was isolated in 8 of the 13 years of the study from seven mosquito species, but more than 90% of the isolates were from Cx. annulirostris. The results suggest that MVE virus is epizootic in the region, with activity only apparent in years with average or above average rainfall and increased numbers of Cx. annulirostris. High levels of MVE virus activity and associated human cases were detected only once (in 1993) during the survey period. Activity of MVE virus could only be partially correlated with wet season rainfall and flooding, suggesting that a number of other factors must also be considered to accurately predict MVE virus activity at such communities.
DISTRIBUTION OF ANOPHELINE MOSQUITOES IN ERITREA
Authors: SHILILU JOSEPHAT , GHEBREMESKEL TEWOLDE , MENGISTU SOLOMON , FEKADU HELEN , ZEROM MEHARI , MBOGO CHARLES , GITHURE JOHN , GU WEIDONG , NOVAK ROBERT , BEIER JOHN C.
Published: September 2018

The spatial distribution of anopheline mosquito species was studied throughout Eritrea during the 1999–2001 malaria transmission seasons from October to December for the highlands and western lowlands and February to April for the coastal region. Of the 302 villages sampled, 59 were visited in both the first and second year. Overall, 13 anopheline species were identified, with the Anopheles gambiae complex predominating during the first year (75.6%, n = 861) and the second year (91.9%, n = 1,262). Intrazonal variation accounted for 90% of the total variation in mosquito distribution. Polymerase chain reaction results indicated that 99% (n = 1,309) of the An. gambiae s.l. specimens were An. arabiensis, indicating that this was the only member of the gambiae complex present. There was a high degree of aggregation of anophelines within zones and villages, with more than 80% of the total anophelines being collected from less than 20% of the villages and from only 10% of the houses sampled. At least 80% of the anopheline mosquitoes were collected from grass-thatched Agudo-type housing. Vector abundance showed an inverse relationship with elevation, with highest densities in the low-lying western lowlands. Multiple regression analysis of log-transformed mean density of An. arabiensis with rainfall and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) (average NDVI, minimum NDVI, and maximum NDVI) showed that these independent variables were not significantly associated with mosquito densities (R2 = 0.058). Our study contributes to the basic understanding of the ecology and distribution of malaria vectors with respect to species composition and spatial heterogeneities both that could be used to guide vector control operations in Eritrea.
SHORT REPORT: QUANTIFICATION OF LEISHMANIAVIRUS RNA IN CLINICAL SAMPLES AND ITS POSSIBLE ROLE IN PATHOGENESIS
Authors: OGG MONICA M. , CARRION RICARDO , DE CARVALHO BOTELHO ANA CRISTINA , MAYRINK WILSON , CORREA-OLIVEIRA RODRIGO , PATTERSON JEAN L.
Published: September 2018

Leishmaniavirus (LRV) is a double-stranded RNA virus that infects the protozoa Leishmania and has been identified in numerous strains of Leishmania braziliensis and L. braziliensis guyanensis. In general, the species of Leishmania dictates disease manifestation except in the case of L. braziliensis, which is capable of causing either cutaneous or mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. We wanted to determine 1) the quantity of LRV RNA present in a clinical sample and 2) if infection with LRV was associated with a specific disease manifestation. A real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction assay was used to assay clinical samples for the presence of LRV. Of 47 samples tested, 12 positive samples were obtained from patients with cutaneous lesions, lesions in the process of scarring, and cutaneous scars. This is the first study to examine the prevalence of LRV RNA within a small cohort from Brazil.
CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF POST-TREATMENT REACTIONS TO IVERMECTIN/ALBENDAZOLE FOR WUCHERERIA BANCROFTI IN A REGION CO-ENDEMIC FOR MANSONELLA PERSTANS
Authors: KEISER PAUL B. , COULIBALY YAYA I. , KEITA FALAYE , TRAORE DIAKARIDIA , DIALLO ABDALLAH , DIALLO DAPA A. , SEMNANI ROSHANAK T. , DOUMBO OGOBARA K. , TRAORE SEKOU F. , KLION AMY D. , NUTMAN THOMAS B.
Published: September 2018

Post-treatment reactions to single-dose ivermectin (200 μg/kg) and albendazole (400 mg) were studied in a filarial endemic region of Mali. The prevalence of Wuchereria bancrofti in this region was 48.3% (69 of 143), and coinfection with Mansonella perstans was common (30 of 40, 75%). Microfilarial levels of M. perstans correlated positively with age (P = 0.006) and with W. bancrofti microfilarial levels (P = 0.006). Forty individuals (28 infected and 12 uninfected) were treated, with mild post-treatment reactions occurring in 35.7% (7 of 28) of the W. bancrofti-infected subjects. Reaction severity correlated with pretreatment W. bancrofti microfilarial levels (P = 0.001). There were no significant differences in the prevalence or severity of post-treatment reactions in those who were co-infected with M. perstans. It is concluded that co-infection with M. perstans does not significantly alter the post-treatment reaction profile to single-dose ivermectin/albendazole in W. bancrofti infection in this community, and that acute post-treatment reactions should not limit patient compliance in community-based programs to eliminate lymphatic filariasis.
EOSINOPHILIC MENINGOENCEPHALITIS DUE TO TOXOCARA CANIS: CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
Authors: VIDAL JOSE E. , SZTAJNBOK JAQUES , SEGURO ANTONIO CARLOS
Published: September 2018

Toxocariasis is usually manifested as visceral larva migrans. Nervous system involvement is a rare complication. In this report, we describe one case of meningoencephalitis due to Toxocara canis and review the literature. We report a previously healthy two-year-old boy who was admitted after 24 hours of severe neurologic symptoms with marked eosinophilic pleocytosis in the cerebrospinal fluid and a single subcortical lesion detected by cerebral magnetic resonance imaging. Both serum and spinal fluid tested positive for T. canis. Initial treatment with thiabendazole was ineffective. After marked improvement in clinical and laboratory results were achieved using albendazole and corticosteroids, the child was discharged.
ROBUST IN VITRO REPLICATION OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM IN GLYCOSYL-PHOSPHATIDYLINOSITOL–ANCHORED MEMBRANE GLYCOPROTEIN–DEFICIENT RED BLOOD CELLS
Authors: PATTANAPANYASAT KOVIT , WALSH DOUGLAS S. , YONGVANITCHIT KOSOL , PIYAWATTHANASAKUL NATAWAN , WANACHIWANAWIN WANCHAI , WEBSTER H. KYLE
Published: September 2018

Red blood cells (RBCs) infected with Plasmodium falciparum are protected from complement-mediated lysis by surface membrane glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins, which include decay accelerating factor (DAF or CD55) and CD59. To determine if P. falciparum avoids or replicates less efficiently in GPI protein-deficient cells at a higher risk for complement-mediated lysis, we compared P. falciparum infectivity among control RBCs with those from subjects with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), a condition in which RBCs express variable levels of DAF (negative and positive) and CD59 (negative [−], intermediate [I], and high [H]). Co-cultures of 19 matched samples of control and PNH RBCs were infected with P. falciparum to directly compare parasitic invasion. Each PNH RBC sample was then assessed for P. falciparum infectivity across the spectrum of GPI protein deficiency. Identification methods included biotin-streptavidin for RBC populations, fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled antibodies to DAF and CD59, hydroethidine for parasite DNA, and flow cytometry. The mean ± SD parasitemias in co-cultured PNH and control RBCs were 24.7 ± 6.9% versus 21.0 ± 5.9% (P 30.12). For individual PNH samples, parasitemias were significantly higher in DAF (−) cells versus DAF (+) cells (25.0 ± 8.9% versus 19.1 ± 8.7%; P < 0.001) and in CD59 (−) cells versus I/H cells (22.5 ± 6.4% versus 17.6 ± 4.2%; P < 0.0003). Across the CD59 spectrum, mean parasitemias were highest in CD59 (−) cells (24.5 ± 6.4%), followed by CD59-H cells (19.5 ± 5.4%), and CD59-I cells (16.4 ± 4.8%). Expression of DAF in 12 (63%) of 19 infected PNH samples was reduced. Thus, P. falciparum does not selectively avoid RBCs with fewer GPI proteins and parasite replication in PNH cells is at least as robust as in normal RBCs.
IDENTIFICATION OF A POLYMORPHIC PLASMODIUM VIVAX MICROSATELLITE MARKER
Authors: GOMEZ JOHN C. , MCNAMARA DAVID T. , BOCKARIE MOSES J. , BAIRD J. KEVIN , CARLTON JANE M. , ZIMMERMAN PETER A.
Published: September 2018

Microsatellite markers derived from simple sequence repeats have been useful in studying a number of human pathogens, including the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Genetic markers for P. vivax would likewise help elucidate the genetics and population characteristics of this other important human malaria parasite. We have identified a locus in a P. vivax telomeric clone that contains simple sequence repeats. Primers were designed to amplify this region using a two-step semi-nested polymerase chain reaction protocol. The primers did not amplify template obtained from non-infected individuals, nor DNA from primates infected with the other human malaria parasites (P. ovale, P. malariae, or P. falciparum). The marker was polymorphic in P. vivax-infected field isolates obtained from Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and Guyana. This microsatellite marker may be useful in genetic and epidemiologic studies of P. vivax malaria.
MITOCHONDRIAL CYTOCHROME B VARIATION IN POPULATIONS OF THE VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS VECTOR LUTZOMYIA LONGIPALPIS ACROSS EASTERN BRAZIL
Authors: HODGKINSON VIRGINIA H. , BIRUNGI JOSEPHINE , QUINTANA MIGUEL , DEITZE REYNALDO , MUNSTERMANN LEONARD E.
Published: September 2018

A population analysis of peridomestic, light-trapped, field specimens of the phlebotomine sand fly Lutzomyia longipalpis was targeted to six locations representing a geographic transect across eastern Brazil. Mitochondrial cytochrome b gene sequences established the pattern of genetic variation among the populations. Alignment of a 261-basepair region at the 3′end of cytochrome b identified 30 haplotypes and 21 segregating sites from 78 sand flies. Pairwise comparisons indicated statistically significant population structuring between northern and southern populations, as well as structuring among the southern populations. Prominent spatial clustering was evident for two of the populations in a minimum spanning network of the haplotypes, but sequence divergence was not sufficient to indicate cryptic species.
INTERACTIONS BETWEEN SCHISTOSOMA HAEMATOBIUM AND HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 1: THE EFFECTS OF COINFECTION ON TREATMENT OUTCOMES IN RURAL ZAMBIA
Authors: MWANAKASALE VICTOR , VOUNATSOU PENELOPE , SUKWA THOMAS Y. , ZIBA MACDUFF , ERNEST ARTHUR , TANNER MARCEL
Published: September 2018

A prospective cohort study was conducted in two villages in Zambia to compare the efficacy of praziquantel in the treatment of schistosomiasis haematobium in people with and without concomitant infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Five hundred seven individuals with infected with Schistosoma haematobium were enrolled and followed-up for as long as 12 months after treatment with a single dose of praziquantel. Seventy-three were coinfected with HIV. The study demonstrated that praziquantel is still very effective in the treatment and control of S. haematobium even when there is coinfection with HIV (without symptoms and signs of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]/HIV disease). Resistance to reinfection with S. haematobium is not altered in subjects coinfected with HIV (without symptoms and signs of AIDS/HIV disease). Individuals with coinfection excreted fewer eggs and complained less of hematuria than those without HIV infection, and the sensitivity and positive predictive value of reported hematuria as an indication of heavy infection were lower in the group coinfected with HIV. This observation may have implications for the use of hematuria as an indicator for rapid diagnosis of schistosomiasis in areas where HIV is prevalent.
SHORT REPORT: SERODIAGNOSIS OF PLAGUE IN HUMANS AND RATS USING A RAPID TEST
Authors: THULLIER PHILIPPE , GUGLIELMO VALERIE , RAJERISON MINO , CHANTEAU SUZANNE
Published: September 2018

Serodiagnosis of plague is very useful for its retrospective confirmation and for epidemiologic studies in humans and in rodents, since rats constitute the main natural reservoir of Yersinia pestis. We have developed a rapid test for the detection of IgG antibodies to fraction 1 (F1) based on immunochromatography and protein A to detect both human and rat IgG. When tested with reference human sera (35 positive and 37 negative), this assay showed a sensitivity of 94.3% and a specificity of 89.2%. When Rattus rattus and R. norvegicus reference sera (22 positive and 24 negative) were used, the sensitivity was 100% and the specificity was 91.7%. This simple serodiagnostic tool is of great potential value in the surveillance of plague. As far as we know, this test is the first of its kind designed for diagnosis of both humans and animals.
DIAGNOSIS OF TUBERCULOSIS LYMPHADENITIS USING A POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION ON PERIPHERAL BLOOD MONONUCLEAR CELLS
Authors: MIRZA SHAPER , RESTREPO BLANCA I. , MCCORMICK JOSEPH B. , FISHER-HOCH SUSAN P.
Published: September 2018

Providing prompt and precise laboratory confirmation of a clinical diagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis is difficult given the paucibacillary nature of lymph node specimens. In this study carried out in Karachi, Pakistan, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay aimed at detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC-PCR) was standardized and compared with standard M. tuberculosis diagnostic techniques or a lymph node PCR (LN-PCR) for the diagnosis of tuberculosis lymphadenitis. Thirty-seven (77%) specimens from 48 patients with clinical or diagnosis of tuberculosis lymphadenitis were positive by cytology [17/48 (35%) with no acid fast bacilli (AFB) (suggestive), and 20/48 (42%) with AFB (positive) in direct smears], 30 (63%) by PBMC-PCR, 16 (33%) by LN-PCR, and 13 (27%) by culture. All controls were negative, with the exception of one false-positive LN-PCR. These data suggest the PBMC-PCR may be helpful in the diagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis.
THE TRANSMISSION DYNAMICS OF CANINE AMERICAN CUTANEOUS LEISHMANIASIS IN HUÁNUCO, PERU
Authors: REITHINGER RICHARD , ESPINOZA JUAN CANALES , DAVIES CLIVE R.
Published: September 2018

The epidemiology of canine American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) due to Leishmania (Viannia) spp. was investigated in Huánuco, Peru to 1) describe the natural course of canine L. (Viannia) infections and 2) assess the role of domestic dogs as ACL reservoir hosts. Over a three-year period 1,022 dogs were surveyed, with cumulative village L. (Viannia) prevalence being 26% (range = 0–100%). The incidence of L. (Viannia) was estimated to be 0.285 dogs/year (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.160–0.410) using cross-sectional data and 0.291 dogs/year (95% CI = 0.195–0.387) using data from 108 dogs that were surveyed prospectively. The recovery rate was estimated to be 0.456 dogs/year (95% CI = 0.050–0.862) and 0.520 dogs/year (95% CI = 0.302–0.738), respectively. Using those findings, the basic reproduction number was estimated to be R0 ≈ 1.9; if dogs were the principal ACL reservoirs, the mean yearly effort (i.e., coverage or elimination) of a dog control intervention (e.g., collaring, culling, or vaccination) to ensure the elimination of L. (Viannia) spp. transmission would be as low as 47%.
SHORT REPORT: REQUIREMENT OF B CELLS FOR DELAYED TYPE HYPERSENSITIVITY–LIKE PATHOLOGY AFTER SECONDARY INFECTION WITH LEISHMANIA MAJOR IN RESISTANT C57BL/6 MICE
Authors: DEKREY GREGORY K. , JONES JEREMY J. , MBOW M. LAMINE , BRODSKYN CLAUDIA I. , TITUS RICHARD G.
Published: September 2018

B cell-deficient C57Bl/6 (μMT) mice were resistant to Leishmania major after both primary and secondary parasite challenge. However, unlike in wild-type mice, secondary infection in μMT mice was not accompanied by a marked delayed type hypersensitivity-like response, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) levels were approximately half of those in wild-type mice. These results suggest that B cells are involved in IFN-γ production and the pathology of secondary infection.
GENETIC RELATIONSHIPS AMONG SOME SPECIES GROUPS WITHIN THE GENUS LUTZOMYIA (DIPTERA: PSYCHODIDAE)
Authors: TORGERSON DARA G. , LAMPO MARGARITA , VELÁZQUEZ YELITZA , WOO PATRICK T. K.
Published: September 2018

Molecular data on Lutzomyia are very scarce, despite the fact that this genus includes all the species involved in the transmission of leishmaniasis in America. We examine the genetic relationships among eight morphologic groups within the Lutzomyia genus and two Brumptomyia species, using nine enzyme loci and the last 285 basepairs of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. The structure of the genetic variation among the species analyzed indicated a closer genetic relationship among members of a morphologic group than between members of different groups. The lower levels of variation recorded among these groups compared with that between Brumptomyia and Lutzomyia suggest a subgeneric status for all of these groups, including Psychodopygus. A maximum likelihood tree for the allozyme data and a neighbor-joining consensus tree for the mitochondrial DNA sequences showed a general agreement with morphologic groups, with only minor differences. Nyssomyia, Verrucarum and Micropygomyia formed separate monophyletic groups. Lutzomyia could not be separated from Psathyromyia, and both Migonei species, L. dubitans and L. migonei, grouped in different clades according to the host species they are found on.
A NEW SERUM HYDATID ANTIGEN DETECTION TEST FOR DIAGNOSIS OF CYSTIC ECHINOCOCCOSIS
Authors: DEVI C. SHEELA , PARIJA SUBHASH C.
Published: September 2018

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a major public health problem with a worldwide distribution in both humans and animals. Diagnosis of this disease by simple and rapid immunoassays is a priority. The objective of the present study was to standardize and evaluate the latex agglutination test (LAT) as a simple test for the detection of circulating hydatid antigen in serum. The subjects in this study included 141 patients in the following groups: surgically confirmed CE cases (18), ultrasound-proven cases (26), presumptive CE cases (47), controls with other parasitic disease (25), and healthy controls (25). A polystyrene latex (0.81 μm) suspension was used as a carrier particle for hydatid antibodies in the test. The latex particles were sensitized with hyperimmune hydatid antiserum raised in rabbits. The hydatid antibody-sensitized latex particles were used for the detection of hydatid antigens in serum. The results of the study showed that the LAT could detect the circulating hydatid antigen in 13 (72%) of 18 patients with surgically confirmed CE, 17 (65%) of 26 patients with ultrasound-proven CE, and 19 (40%) of 47 presumptive cases of CE. The test detected antigen in 1 (4%) of 25 controls with other parasitic disease, and no antigen was detected in the serum of 25 healthy controls. The LAT showed a sensitivity of 72%, a specificity of 98%, a positive predictive value of 93%, and a negative predictive value of 91%. The present study is the first report of the LAT for the detection of hydatid antigen in serum in the diagnosis of CE.
COMPARISON OF ARTIFICIAL MEMBRANE FEEDING WITH DIRECT SKIN FEEDING TO ESTIMATE THE INFECTIOUSNESS OF PLASMODIUM VIVAX GAMETOCYTE CARRIERS TO MOSQUITOES
Authors: SATTABONGKOT JETSUMON , MANEECHAI NONGNUJ , PHUNKITCHAR VICHIT , EIKARAT NANTANA , KHUNTIRAT BENJAWAN , SIRICHAISINTHOP JEERAPHAT , BURGE ROBERT , COLEMAN RUSSELL E.
Published: September 2018

The efficacy of a membrane-feeding apparatus as a means of infecting Anopheles dirus mosquitoes with Plasmodium vivax was compared with direct feeding of mosquitoes on gametocyte carriers. Volunteers participating in the study were symptomatic patients reporting to malaria clinics in western Thailand. Direct mosquito feeds were conducted on 285 P. vivax-infected individuals. Four methods of preparing blood for the membrane-feeding apparatus were evaluated. They included 1) replacement of patient plasma with sera from a P. vivax-naive donor (n = 276), 2) replacement of patient plasma with plasma from a P. vivax-naive donor (n = 83), 3) replacement of patient plasma with that individual’s own plasma (n = 80), and 4) whole blood added directly to the feeder (n = 221). Criteria used to compare the different methods included 1) number of feeds infecting mosquitoes, 2) percent of mosquitoes with oocysts, and 3) mean number of oocysts per positive mosquito. For most parameters, the direct- feeding method was not significantly different from methods that replaced patient plasma with sera/plasma from a P. vivax-naive donor. However, direct feeding was more effective than use of whole blood or blood that was reconstituted with the patient’s own plasma. These data suggest a possible role of transmission-blocking antibody. The implications towards development of a membrane-feeding assay for the evaluation of candidate transmission-blocking malaria vaccines is discussed.
BLOCKING OF TRANSMISSION TO MOSQUITOES BY ANTIBODY TO PLASMODIUM VIVAX MALARIA VACCINE CANDIDATES PVS25 AND PVS28 DESPITE ANTIGENIC POLYMORPHISM IN FIELD ISOLATES
Authors: SATTABONGKOT JETSUMON , TSUBOI TAKAFUMI , HISAEDA HAJIME , TACHIBANA MAYUMI , SUWANABUN NANTAVADEE , RUNGRUANG THANAPORN , CAO YA-MING , STOWERS ANTHONY W. , SIRICHAISINTHOP JEERAPHAT , COLEMAN RUSSELL E. , TORII MOTOMI
Published: September 2018

We have previously demonstrated that mouse antisera against yeast-produced recombinant forms of the ookinete surface proteins of Plasmodium vivax (Pvs25 and Pvs28) blocks transmission of the homologous P. vivax (Sal I strain). In this study, we developed mouse and rabbit antisera against Pvs25 and Pvs28 and evaluated the efficacy of these vaccine candidates against natural isolates of P. vivax in Thailand. Although both Pvs25 and Pvs28 genes are polymorphic, sera from mice immunized using alum adjuvant completely inhibited oocyst development for most human isolates, whereas sera from rabbits immunized with either alum or Freund’s adjuvant were partially inhibitory. All inhibition occurred in an antibody dose dependent fashion. Data from this study clearly demonstrates that antibodies raised against Sal I-based vaccines overcome the genetic polymorphism of Pvs25 and Pvs28 present in natural isolates of P. vivax, suggesting the wide range applicability of Sal I based vaccines.
MULTI-DRUG RESISTANT PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM MALARIA IN ASSAM, INDIA: TIMING OF RECURRENCE AND ANTI-MALARIAL DRUG CONCENTRATIONS IN WHOLE BLOOD
Authors: DUA VIRENDRA K. , DEV VAS , PHOOKAN S. , GUPTA N. C. , SHARMA V. P. , SUBBARAO S. K.
Published: September 2018

The susceptibility of 23 cases of Plasmodium falciparum malaria from the Sonapur primary health center in the Kamrup district of Assam, India to different antimalarials was investigated using the 28-day World Health Organization in vivo test. Whole blood concentrations of chloroquine, sulfadoxine, and quinine were determined at different intervals and at the time of parasites recrudescence after completion of treatment with the respective drugs to confirm the status of drug sensitivity. A case of multi-drug resistant P. falciparum malaria was found where recrudescence occurred, despite standard oral treatment with chloroquine, sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine, and quinine sequentially. Whole blood concentrations of chloroquine, sulfadoxine, and quinine at the time of recrudescence were 0.35 μg/ml (day 7), 18 μg/ml (day 14), and 0.009 μg/ml (day 14), respectively. Therefore, monitoring of drug-resistant P. falciparum malaria and its proper treatment should be intensified to check the spread of multi-drug resistant strains in other parts of the country.
ASSOCIATION OF Fcγ RECEPTOR IIa (CD32) POLYMORPHISM WITH SEVERE MALARIA IN WEST AFRICA
Authors: COOKE GRAHAM S. , AUCAN CHRISTOPHE , WALLEY ANDREW J. , SEGAL SHELLEY , GREENWOOD BRIAN M. , KWIATKOWSKI DOMINIC P. , HILL ADRIAN V. S.
Published: September 2018

Malaria continues to claim the lives of more children worldwide than any other infectious disease, and improved understanding of disease immunology is a priority for the development of new therapeutic and vaccination strategies. FcγRIIa (CD32) contains a polymorphic variant (H/R131) that has been associated with variability in susceptibility to both bacterial diseases and Plasmodium falciparum parasitemia. We investigated the role of this polymorphism in West Africans with mild and severe malarial disease. The HH131 genotype was significantly associated with susceptibility to severe malaria (P = 0.03, odds ratio = 1.40, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–1.91). In contrast to studies of parasitemia, the presence of the R131 allele, rather than the RR131 genotype, appeared to be the important factor in protection from disease. This is the first evidence for an association between CD32 polymorphism and severe malaria and provides an example of balancing selective pressures from different infectious diseases operating at the same genetic locus.
THE IMPACT OF REPEATED MALARIA ATTACKS ON THE SCHOOL PERFORMANCE OF CHILDREN
Authors: FERNANDO S. D. , GUNAWARDENA D. M. , BANDARA M. R. S. S. , DE SILVA D. , CARTER R. , MENDIS K. N. , WICKREMASINGHE A. R.
Published: September 2018

The impact of repeated malarial infections on the school performance of children was investigated in 571 school children 6–14 years of age in a malaria-endemic area in southern Sri Lanka where both Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax infections are prevalent. Malaria infections confirmed by microscopy were monitored over a six-year period. School performance was assessed by two specially designed, school grade-specific, test papers for Sinhala language and mathematics. The scores for Sinhala language and mathematics for each school term test for the year 1997 were obtained. Malarial infections were a major predictor of children’s performance in language and mathematics after controlling for parent’s education, monthly family income, and house type. The education of the father predicted language scores but not mathematics scores. A child who experienced more than five attacks of malaria scored approximately 15% less than a child who experienced less than three attacks of malaria. The data suggest that repeated attacks of malaria have an adverse impact on the school performance of children.
ADAPTATION OF A STRAIN OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM FROM GHANA TO AOTUS LEMURINUS GRISEIMEMBRA, A. NANCYMAI, AND A. VOCIFERANS MONKEYS
Authors: SULLIVAN JOANN S. , SULLIVAN JAMES J. , WILLIAMS ALLISON , GRADY KATHARINE K. , BOUNNGASENG AMY , HUBER CURTIS S. , NACE DOUGLAS , WILLIAMS TYRONE , GALLAND G. GALE , BARNWELL JOHN W. , COLLINS WILLIAM E.
Published: September 2018

A strain of Plasmodium falciparum from Ghana was adapted to Aotus lemurinus griseimembra, A. nancymai, and A. vociferans monkeys. Gametocytes in splenectomized A. nancymai were infective to Anopheles freeborni mosquitoes. Sporozoite transmission was accomplished in two splenectomized A. nancymai with prepatent periods of 22 and 25 days. The Ghana III/CDC strain of P. falciparum is susceptible to treatment with chloroquine and mefloquine.
LABORATORY DIAGNOSIS OF TWO SCRUB TYPHUS OUTBREAKS AT CAMP FUJI, JAPAN IN 2000 AND 2001 BY ENZYME-LINKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY, RAPID FLOW ASSAY, AND WESTERN BLOT ASSAY USING OUTER MEMBRANE 56-KD RECOMBINANT PROTEINS
Authors: JIANG JU , MARIENAU KAREN J. , MAY LAUREL A. , BEECHAM H. JAMES , WILKINSON RAY , CHING WEI-MEI , RICHARDS ALLEN L.
Published: September 2018

Two scrub typhus outbreaks occurred among U.S. Marines training at Camp Fuji, Japan, between October 25 and November 3, 2000 and October 17 and November 30, 2001. Nine cases in approximately 800 Marines in 2000 and eight cases in approximately 900 Marines in 2001 (approximate attack rates = 1.1% and 0.9%, respectively) reported with signs and symptoms of fever, rash, headache, lymphadenopathy, myalgia, and eschar. Serologies and rapid response to doxycycline treatment indicated they had scrub typhus. Sixty-four convalescent serum samples (18 suspected cases and 46 negative controls) from U.S. Marines training at Camp Fuji during the outbreaks were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), rapid flow assay (RFA), and Western blot assay for evidence of infection with Orientia tsutsugamushi, the causative agent of scrub typhus. All but one suspected case had serologic evidence of scrub typhus and all 46 control sera were non-reactive to O. tsutsugamushi antigens. The recombinant 56-kD antigen (r56) from the Karp, Kato and Gilliam strains of O. tsutsugamushi in an ELISA format provided better results than Karp r56 alone (ELISA and RFA) or whole cell antigen preparation from Karp, Kato and Gilliam (ELISA).
PREDICTION OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM RESISTANCE TO SULFADOXINE/ PYRIMETHAMINE IN VIVO BY MUTATIONS IN THE DIHYDROFOLATE REDUCTASE AND DIHYDROPTEROATE SYNTHETASE GENES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN SITES OF DIFFERING ENDEMICITY
Authors: ALIFRANGIS MICHAEL , ENOSSE SONJA , KHALIL INSAF F. , TARIMO DONATH S. , LEMNGE MARTHA M. , THOMPSON RICHARDO , BYGBJERG IB C. , RØNN ANITA M.
Published: September 2018

Plasmodium falciparum resistance to sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine (S/P) is due to mutations in the dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) and dihydropteroate synthetase (dhfr) genes. Large-scale screening of the prevalence of these mutations could facilitate the surveillance of the level of S/P resistance in vivo. The prevalence of mutations in dhfr and dhps in relation to S/P efficacy was studied in four sites of differing endemicity in Sudan, Mozambique, and Tanzania. The sites were organized in order of increasing resistance and a significant increase in the prevalence of triple mutations in codons c51, c59, and c108 of dhfr was observed. A similar trend was observed when dhfr genotypes were combined with c437 of dhps. Since the differences in S/P resistance between the sites were minor, but nevertheless revealed major differences in dhfr genotype prevalence, the role of dhfr as a general molecular marker seems debatable. The differences may reflect variation in the duration and magnitude of S/P usage (or other antifolate drugs) between the sites. Thus, triple dhfr mutations may prove suitable only as a general guideline for detecting emerging S/P resistance in areas where S/P has been introduced recently. However, changes in susceptibility within the same area with moderate levels of resistance may be possible by longitudinal surveillance of a subset of dhfr/dhps mutations that has been associated with S/P resistance in vivo in a defined location.
FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION OF ANTIMALARIAL DRUG-RESISTANT ALLELES AMONG ISOLATES OF PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM IN PURWOREJO DISTRICT, CENTRAL JAVA PROVINCE, INDONESIA
Authors: SYAFRUDDIN D. , ASIH PUJI B. S. , AGGARWAL SONA L. , SHANKAR ANURAJ H.
Published: September 2018

Treatment failures to the first- and second-lines antimalarial drugs chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine have increased in the Purworejo district on the island of Java, Indonesia. A molecular epidemiologic study was conducted to determine the frequency distribution of mutant alleles of the genes associated with the resistance among the isolates of Plasmodium falciparum from the area. Analyses using a polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism showed that nearly all of the 111 samples carried mutant alleles in genes associated with chloroquine resistance: P. falciparum multi-drug resistance 1 (pfmdr1) 86Y (92%), 1042D (4.5%), and P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) 76T (99.1%). Mutant alleles of the in the dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) gene were also high (84.7%), either as 108N and 108T or paired with 59R, and 16V, respectively. Mutant alleles in the dihydropteroate synthase gene were the least common, either as a single 437G mutation (35.3%) or paired with 540E (26.5%). These results are consistent with the antimalarial drug resistance situation in the area and emphasize the need for a proper treatment strategy.
ADVERSE REACTIONS TO IVERMECTIN TREATMENT IN SIMULIUM NEAVEI–TRANSMITTED ONCHOCERCIASIS
Authors: KIPP WALTER , BAMHUHIIGA JOTHAM , RUBAALE TOM , BÜTTNER DIETRICH W.
Published: September 2018

To assess adverse effects of ivermectin treatment in a Simulium neavei-transmitted focus of onchocerciasis, a study was conducted with 1,246 patients infected with Onchocerca volvulus in eight villages in western Uganda. Study participants were treated the first time with a single dose of 150 μg/kg of ivermectin. Adverse reactions to ivermectin were determined through questioning and clinical examination during house-to-house visits to the participants within 48 hours after ivermectin treatment. Overall adverse reactions were observed in 737 (59.1%) patients. Severe reactions were rare (10 patients, 1.4%). Our data show that adverse reactions to ivermectin in an S. neavei-transmitted onchocerciasis focus in western Uganda occur frequently. In spite of the fact that many patients showed adverse reactions to ivermectin, the drug was well accepted and appreciated by the population.
RISK FACTORS FOR INFECTION DURING A SEVERE DENGUE OUTBREAK IN EL SALVADOR IN 2000
Authors: HAYES JOHN M. , GARCÍA-RIVERA ENID , FLORES-REYNA ROBERTO , SUÁREZ-RANGEL GLORIA , RODRÍGUEZ-MATA TITO , COTO-PORTILLO RENÉ , BALTRONS-ORELLANA RAFAEL , MENDOZA-RODRÍGUEZ ELMER , FUENTES DE GARAY BETTY , JUBIS-ESTRADA JUAN , HERNÁNDEZ-ARGUETA ROLANDO , BIGGERSTAFF BRAD J. , RIGAU-PÉREZ JOSÉ G.
Published: September 2018

In 2000, El Salvador experienced a large dengue-2 virus epidemic with many severe cases. A seroepidemiologic survey was conducted in 106 randomly selected households (501 residents) in an affected community (Las Pampitas). The frequency of recent infection, documented by the presence of IgM antibodies or high-titer IgG antibodies to dengue virus, was estimated to be 9.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] =5.8–13.7), of which at least 44% were secondary infections. The number of containers positive for Aedes mosquito larvae or pupae per 100 premises (Breteau Index) was 62 and the frequency of positive premises (House Index) was 36%; 33% (35 of 106) of the informants reported having taken action against mosquito larval habitats and 82% (87 of 106) reported having taken actions against adult mosquitoes. Recent infection was associated with the presence in the home environment of mosquito infested discarded cans (odds ratio [OR] = 4.30, 95% CI = 2.54–7.28), infested discarded plastic containers (OR = 3.98, 95% CI = 1.05–15.05), and discarded tire casings (OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.09–6.04). The population attributable fractions associated with these factors were 4%, 13%, and 31%, respectively. Our data suggest that targeted community cleanup campaigns, particularly those directed at discarded tires and solid waste, are likely to have the greatest impact on reducing the risk of dengue infection.
AVIAN HOST PREFERENCE BY VECTORS OF EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALOMYELITIS VIRUS
Authors: HASSAN HASSAN K. , CUPP EDDIE W. , HILL GEOFFREY E. , KATHOLI CHARLES R. , KLINGLER KIMBERLY , UNNASCH THOMAS R.
Published: September 2018

An important variable in the amplification and escape from the enzootic cycle of the arboviral encephalitides is the degree of contact between avian hosts and mosquito vectors. To analyze this interaction in detail, blood-fed mosquitoes that were confirmed vectors of eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE) virus were collected in 2002 from an enzootic site in central Alabama during the time this virus was actively transmitted. Avian-derived blood meals were identified to the species level of the host, and the proportion derived from each species was compared with the overall composition of the avifauna at the study site. The EEE vector mosquito species fed significantly more on some bird species and less on other species than expected given the overall abundance, biomass, or surface area of the local avifauna. When viewed collectively, these data suggest that these mosquitoes are selectively targeting particular avian species.
SHORT REPORT: DETECTION OF JAPANESE ENCEPHALITIS VIRUS IN MOUSE PERIPHERAL BLOOD MONONUCLEAR CELLS USING AN IN SITU REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE–POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION
Authors: CHUANG CHING-KAI , CHIOU SHYAN-SONG , LIANG LI-CHING , CHEN WEI-JUNE
Published: September 2018

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is an important mosquito-borne viral disease in Southeast Asia. Isolation of JE virus from peripheral blood is usually difficult because of transient and low titer of viremia. An in situ reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method was designed to amplify gene (envelope) fragments of JE virus residing in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) without extraction of RNA. Baby hamster kidney-21 cells infected with the T1P1 strain of JE virus (an isolate from Armigeres subalbatus collected in Taiwan) were fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde and permeabilized with 0.1% Triton X-100. The RT-PCR was then performed in microtubes using digoxigenin-labeled primers. Virus-positive PBMCs were detected in mice at day 1 and day 3, but not day 5, after intravenous inoculation with JE virus, suggesting that detectable virus circulating in the blood of mice is present for only 2–3 days. On examination of mouse brain tissues, viral RNAs were absent until day 3 post-inoculation. This implied that virus migration from the peripheral blood into the central nervous system occurs at or after day 3 post-inoculation. This method is unique in that the reactions can be conducted in tubes; this makes it convenient, accurate, and efficient compared with the conventional in situ RT-PCR on slides.
MODULATION OF CYTOKINE EXPRESSION IN HUMAN KERATINOCYTES AND FIBROBLASTS BY EXTRACTS OF SCABIES MITES
Authors: ARLIAN LARRY G. , MORGAN MARJORIE S. , NEAL JACQUELINE S.
Published: September 2018

Sarcoptes scabiei lives in the stratum corneum of its mammalian host. Keratinocytes and fibroblasts are among the first cells to encounter the burrowing mite and its products. The aim of this study was to determine if molecules in an extract of S. scabiei modulate the expression of cytokines by keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Human keratinocytes and fibroblasts were exposed to an extract of S. scabiei var. canis in the absence or presence of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide. Cytokine expression was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Components in the S. scabiei extract induced marked increases in secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and slight increases in production of granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) by keratinocytes. The scabies extract down-regulated keratinocyte secretion of IL-1 receptor antagonist, but did not influence the production of IL-1α or IL-1β. In comparison, components in the scabies extract induced marked increases in the elaboration of IL-6, IL-8, G-CSF, and VEGF by fibroblasts. Neither cell type produced eotaxin, stem cell factor, or tumor necrosis factor-α under any of the conditions tested. This study demonstrates that components in an extract of the mite S. scabiei are able to influence cytokine expression by human keratinocytes and fibroblasts.