bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leukotriene B4 Induces Release of Antimicrobial Peptides in Lungs of Virally Infected Mice
Authors: Gaudreault Éric , Gosselin Jean
Published: April 2014

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) is a lipid mediator of inflammation that was recently shown to exert antiviral activities. In this study, we demonstrate that the release of antimicrobial proteins by neutrophils contribute to an early host defense against influenza virus infection in vitro as well as in vivo. Daily i.v. treatments with LTB4 lead to a significant decrease in lung viral loads at day 5 postinfection in mice infected with influenza A virus compared with the placebo-treated group. This reduction in viral load was not present in mice deficient in the high-affinity LTB4 receptor. Viral clearance in lungs was associated with up-regulated presence of antimicrobial peptides such as β-defensin-3, members of the mouse eosinophil-related RNase family, and the mouse cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide. Our results also indicate that neutrophils are important in the antiviral effect of LTB4. Viral loads in neutrophil-depleted mice were not diminished by LTB4 administration, and a substantial reduction in the presence of murine cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide and the murine eosinophil-related RNase family in lung tissue was observed. Moreover, in vitro treatment of human neutrophil cultures with LTB4 led rapidly to the secretion of the human cathelicidin LL-37 and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin, known as antiviral peptides. Pretreatment of cell cultures with specific LTB4 receptor antagonists clearly demonstrate the implication of the high-affinity LTB4 receptor in the LTB4-mediated activity. Together, these results demonstrate the importance of neutrophils and the secretion of antimicrobial peptides during the early immune response mediated by LTB4 against a viral pathogen.
Identification of Pendrin as a Common Mediator for Mucus Production in Bronchial Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Nakao Isao , Kanaji Sachiko , Ohta Shoichiro , Matsushita Hidetomo , Arima Kazuhiko , Yuyama Noriko , Yamaya Mutsuo , Nakayama Katsutoshi , Kubo Hiroshi , Watanabe Mika , Sagara Hironori , Sugiyama Kumiya , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Toda Shuji , Hayashi Hiroaki , Inoue Hiromasa , Hoshino Tomoaki , Shiraki Aya , Inoue Makoto , Suzuki Koichi , Aizawa Hisamichi , Okinami Satoshi , Nagai Hiroichi , Hasegawa Mamoru , Fukuda Takeshi , Green Eric D. , Izuhara Kenji
Published: April 2014

Excessive production of airway mucus is a cardinal feature of bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and contributes to morbidity and mortality in these diseases. IL-13, a Th2-type cytokine, is a central mediator in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma, including mucus overproduction. Using a genome-wide search for genes induced in airway epithelial cells in response to IL-13, we identified pendrin encoded by the SLC26A4 (PDS) gene as a molecule responsible for airway mucus production. In both asthma and COPD mouse models, pendrin was up-regulated at the apical side of airway epithelial cells in association with mucus overproduction. Pendrin induced expression of MUC5AC, a major product of mucus in asthma and COPD, in airway epithelial cells. Finally, the enforced expression of pendrin in airway epithelial cells in vivo, using a Sendai virus vector, rapidly induced mucus overproduction in the lumens of the lungs together with neutrophilic infiltration in mice. These findings collectively suggest that pendrin can induce mucus production in airway epithelial cells and may be a therapeutic target candidate for bronchial asthma and COPD.
Unique Expression of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 Is Essential for Classical Macrophage Activation in Rodents In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Liu Yu , Stewart Keith N. , Bishop Eileen , Marek Carylyn J. , Kluth David C. , Rees Andrew J. , Wilson Heather M.
Published: April 2014

On infiltrating inflamed tissue, macrophages respond to the local microenvironment and develop one of two broad phenotypes: classically activated (M1) macrophages that cause tissue injury and alternatively activated macrophages that promote repair. Understanding how this polarization occurs in vivo is far from complete, and in this study, using a Th1-mediated macrophage-dependent model of acute glomerulonephritis, nephrotoxic nephritis, we examine the role of suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)1 and SOCS3. Macrophages in normal kidneys did not express detectable SOCS proteins but those infiltrating inflamed glomeruli were rapidly polarized to express either SOCS1 (27 ± 6%) or SOCS3 (54 ± 12%) but rarely both (10 ± 3%). Rat bone marrow-derived macrophages incubated with IFN-γ or LPS expressed SOCS1 and SOCS3, whereas IL-4 stimulated macrophages expressed SOCS1 exclusively. By contrast, incubation with IFN-γ and LPS together suppressed SOCS1 while uniquely polarizing macrophages to SOCS3 expressing cells. Macrophages in which SOCS3 was knocked down by short interfering RNA responded to IFN-γ and LPS very differently: they had enhanced STAT3 activity; induction of macrophage mannose receptor, arginase and SOCS1; restoration of IL-4 responsiveness that is inhibited in M1 macrophages; and decreased synthesis of inflammatory mediators (NO and IL-6) and costimulatory molecule CD86, demonstrating that SOCS3 is essential for M1 activation. Without it, macrophages develop characteristic alternatively activated markers when exposed to classical activating stimuli. Lastly, increased glomerular IL-4 in nephrotoxic nephritis inhibits infiltrating macrophages from expressing SOCS3 and was associated with attenuated glomerular injury. Consequently, we propose that SOCS3 is essential for development of M1 macrophages in vitro and in vivo.
Requirement for Vav Proteins in Post-Recruitment Neutrophil Cytotoxicity in IgG but Not Complement C3-Dependent Injury
Authors: Utomo Ahmad , Hirahashi Junichi , Mekala Divya , Asano Kenichi , Glogauer Michael , Cullere Xavier , Mayadas Tanya N.
Published: April 2014

The signals linking neutrophil opsonic receptors, FcγRs and complement receptor 3 (Mac-1) to cellular cytotoxic responses are poorly understood. Furthermore, because a deficiency in activating FcγRs reduces both IgG-mediated neutrophil recruitment and tissue injury, the role of FcγRs specifically in mediating neutrophil cytotoxicity in vivo remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that neutrophil Vav 1 and 3, guanine exchange factors for Rac GTPases, are required for IgG/FcγR-mediated hemorrhage and edema in the reverse passive Arthus in the lung and skin. Rac GTPases are also required for development of the reverse passive Arthus reaction. A deficiency in Vav 1 and 3 does not affect neutrophil accumulation at the site of immune complex deposition, thus uncoupling neutrophil recruitment and tissue injury. Surprisingly, Vav and Rac proteins are dispensable for the development of the local Shwartzman reaction in vivo and phagocytosis of complement-opsonized RBC in vitro, processes strictly dependent on Mac-1 and complement C3. Thus, FcγR signaling through the Vav and Rac proteins in neutrophils is critical for stimulating immune complex disease while Vav- and Rac-independent pathways promote Mac-1/complement C3-dependent functions.
CD73-Generated Adenosine Restricts Lymphocyte Migration into Draining Lymph Nodes
Authors: Takedachi Masahide , Qu Dongfeng , Ebisuno Yukihiko , Oohara Hiroyuki , Joachims Michelle L. , McGee Stephanie T. , Maeda Emiko , McEver Rodger P. , Tanaka Toshiyuki , Miyasaka Masayuki , Murakami Shinya , Krahn Thomas , Blackburn Michael R. , Thompson Linda F.
Published: April 2014

After an inflammatory stimulus, lymphocyte migration into draining lymph nodes increases dramatically to facilitate the encounter of naive T cells with Ag-loaded dendritic cells. In this study, we show that CD73 (ecto-5′-nucleotidase) plays an important role in regulating this process. CD73 produces adenosine from AMP and is expressed on high endothelial venules (HEV) and subsets of lymphocytes. Cd73−/− mice have normal sized lymphoid organs in the steady state, but ∼1.5-fold larger draining lymph nodes and 2.5-fold increased rates of L-selectin-dependent lymphocyte migration from the blood through HEV compared with wild-type mice 24 h after LPS administration. Migration rates of cd73+/+ and cd73−/− lymphocytes into lymph nodes of wild-type mice are equal, suggesting that it is CD73 on HEV that regulates lymphocyte migration into draining lymph nodes. The A2B receptor is a likely target of CD73-generated adenosine, because it is the only adenosine receptor expressed on the HEV-like cell line KOP2.16 and it is up-regulated by TNF-α. Furthermore, increased lymphocyte migration into draining lymph nodes of cd73−/− mice is largely normalized by pretreatment with the selective A2B receptor agonist BAY 60-6583. Adenosine receptor signaling to restrict lymphocyte migration across HEV may be an important mechanism to control the magnitude of an inflammatory response.
IL-10 and Natural Regulatory T Cells: Two Independent Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms in Herpes Simplex Virus-Induced Ocular Immunopathology
Authors: Sarangi Pranita P. , Sehrawat Sharvan , Suvas Susmit , Rouse Barry T.
Published: April 2014

Two prominent anti-inflammatory mechanisms involved in controlling HSV-1-induced corneal immunopathology (stromal keratitis or SK) are the production of the cytokine IL-10 and the activity of natural regulatory T cells (nTregs). It is not known whether, under in vivo conditions, IL-10 and nTregs influence the corneal pathology independently or in concert. In the current study using wild-type and IL-10−/− animals, we have assessed the activity of nTregs in the absence of IL-10 both under in vitro and in vivo conditions. The IL-10−/− animals depleted of nTregs before ocular infection showed more severe SK lesions as compared with the undepleted IL-10−/− animals. In addition, nTregs purified from naive WT and IL-10−/− animals were equally able to suppress the proliferation and the cytokine production from anti-CD3-stimulated CD4+CD25− T cells in vitro. Furthermore, intracellular cytokine staining results indicated that nonregulatory cells expressing B220 and CD25 markers were the major IL-10-producing cell types in the lymphoid tissues of HSV-infected mice. In contrast, in the infected corneas, cells with the CD11b+Gr1+ phenotype along with a minor population of Foxp3−CD4+ and a few F4/80+ cells produced IL-10. Our current investigations indicate that at least two independent anti-inflammatory mechanisms are involved in limiting the corneal lesions in SK, both of which may need to be modulated to control SK therapeutically.
NK but Not CD1-Restricted NKT Cells Facilitate Systemic Inflammation during Polymicrobial Intra-Abdominal Sepsis
Authors: Etogo Anthony O. , Nunez Jesus , Lin Cheng Y. , Toliver-Kinsky Tracy E. , Sherwood Edward R.
Published: April 2014

Evidence suggests that NK and NKT cells contribute to inflammation and mortality during septic shock caused by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). However, the specific contributions of these cell types to the pathogenesis of CLP-induced septic shock have not been fully defined. The goal of the present study was to determine the mechanisms by which NK and NKT cells mediate the host response to CLP. Control, NK cell-deficient, and NKT cell-deficient mice underwent CLP. Survival, cytokine production, and bacterial clearance were measured. NK cell trafficking and interaction with myeloid cells was also studied. Results show that mice treated with anti-asialoGM1 (NK cell deficient) or anti-NK1.1 (NK/NKT cell deficient) show less systemic inflammation and have improved survival compared with IgG-treated controls. CD1 knockout mice (NKT cell deficient) did not demonstrate decreased cytokine production or improved survival compared with wild type mice. Trafficking studies show migration of NK cells from blood and spleen into the inflamed peritoneal cavity where they appear to facilitate the activation of peritoneal macrophages (F4-80+GR-1−) and F4-80+Gr-1+ myeloid cells. These findings indicate that NK but not CD1-restricted NKT cells contribute to acute CLP-induced inflammation. NK cells appear to mediate their proinflammatory functions during septic shock, in part, by migration into the peritoneal cavity and amplification of the proinflammatory activities of specific myeloid cell populations. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms used by NK cells to facilitate acute inflammation during septic shock.
An Inducible Caspase 9 Safety Switch Can Halt Cell Therapy-Induced Autoimmune Disease
Authors: de Witte Moniek A. , Jorritsma Annelies , Swart Erwin , Straathof Karin C. , de Punder Karin , Haanen John B. A. G. , Rooney Cliona M. , Schumacher Ton N. M.
Published: April 2014

Transfer of either allogeneic or genetically modified T cells as a therapy for malignancies can be accompanied by T cell-mediated tissue destruction. The introduction of an efficient “safety switch” can potentially be used to control the survival of adoptively transferred cell populations and as such reduce the risk of severe graft-vs-host disease. In this study, we have tested the value of an inducible caspase 9-based safety switch to halt an ongoing immune attack in a murine model for cell therapy-induced type I diabetes. The data obtained in this model indicate that self-reactive T cells expressing this conditional safety switch show unimpaired lymphopenia- and vaccine-induced proliferation and effector function in vivo, but can be specifically and rapidly eliminated upon triggering. These data provide strong support for the evaluation of this conditional safety switch in clinical trials of adoptive cell therapy.
A Novel Non-Synonymous Polymorphism (p.Arg240His) in C4b-Binding Protein Is Associated with Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome and Leads to Impaired Alternative Pathway Cofactor Activity
Authors: Blom Anna M. , Bergström Frida , Edey Matthew , Diaz-Torres Martha , Kavanagh David , Lampe Anne , Goodship Judith A. , Strain Lisa , Moghal Nadeem , McHugh Mary , Inward Carol , Tomson Charles , Frémeaux-Bacchi Véronique , Villoutreix Bruno O. , Goodship Timothy H. J.
Published: April 2014

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a disorder characterized by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure. Mutations, polymorphisms, and copy number variation in complement factors and inhibitors are associated with aHUS. In this study, we report the first functional non-synonymous polymorphism in the complement inhibitor C4b-binding protein (C4BP) α-chain (c.719G>A; p.Arg240His), which is associated with aHUS. This heterozygous change was found in 6/166 aHUS patients compared with 5/542 normal (χ2 = 6.021; p = 0.014), which was replicated in a second cohort of aHUS patients in which we found 5/170 carriers. The polymorphism does not decrease expression efficiency of C4BP. p.Arg240His is equally efficient as the wild type in binding and supporting degradation of C4BP but its ability to bind C3b and act as cofactor to its degradation both in fluid phase and on surfaces is impaired. This observation supports the hypothesis that dysregulation of the alternative pathway of complement is pivotal for aHUS. Three of the patients carry also mutations in membrane cofactor protein and factor H strengthening the hypothesis that individuals may carry multiple susceptibility factors with an additive effect on the risk of developing aHUS.
Natural Naive CD4+CD25+CD127low Regulatory T Cell (Treg) Development and Function Are Disturbed in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: Recovery of Memory Treg Homeostasis during Disease Progression
Authors: Venken Koen , Hellings Niels , Broekmans Tom , Hensen Karen , Rummens Jean-Luc , Stinissen Piet
Published: April 2014

Patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS) show a suboptimal CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cell (Treg) function, whereas no Treg alterations are observed in secondary progressive MS (SP-MS) patients. To clarify the difference in Treg activity between early and chronic disease stages in MS, we analyzed the functional capacity and homeostatic parameters of naive CD4+CD25+CD127lowCD45RA+ Tregs (nTregs) and their memory counterparts CD4+CD25+CD127lowCD45RO+ Tregs (mTregs) in untreated MS patients and healthy controls. Interestingly, whereas the suppressive capacity of FACS-sorted nTregs was impaired in both early and chronic MS patients, only the latter group showed a restored mTreg function. Consistent with this observation, chronic MS patients had increased numbers of mTregs as compared with age-matched early MS patients, whereas nTreg frequencies did not differ significantly. TCR excision circle numbers were reduced in nTregs of early MS patients, suggestive of a diminished nTreg thymic output. Moreover, a decreased number of CD31+ mTregs were observed in early vs chronic MS patients, indicating that inflammatory processes drive the homeostatic turnover of mTregs during the early disease stage. Additionally, early MS patients showed a more restricted nTreg and mTreg TCR BV gene profile as compared with healthy controls and chronic MS patients. Finally, analysis of IFN-β and glatiramer acetate-treated MS patients showed that these immunomodulatory drugs modify nTreg homeostasis. Taken together, this study provides strong evidence for a disturbed thymic nTreg development and function in MS patients. Moreover, memory Treg but not naive Treg homeostasis recovers during disease progression.
Decreased Expression of the Fractalkine Receptor CX3CR1 on Circulating Monocytes as New Feature of Sepsis-Induced Immunosuppression
Authors: Pachot Alexandre , Cazalis Marie-Angélique , Venet Fabienne , Turrel Fanny , Faudot Caroline , Voirin Nicolas , Diasparra Jennifer , Bourgoin Naïck , Poitevin Françoise , Mougin Bruno , Lepape Alain , Monneret Guillaume
Published: April 2014

Although it is known that septic shock rapidly induces immune dysfunctions, which contribute to the impaired clearance of microorganisms observed in patients, the mechanisms for this phenomenon remain incompletely understood. We recently observed, in a microarray study, an altered circulating leukocyte CX3CR1 mRNA expression associated with patients’ mortality. As monocytes play a central role in septic shock pathophysiology and express high levels of CX3CR1, we therefore further investigated the alteration of CX3CR1 expression and of its ligand fractalkine (CX3CL1) on those cells in this clinical condition. We observed that CX3CR1 expression (both mRNA and protein) was severely down-regulated in monocytes and consequently associated with a lack of functionality upon fractalkine challenge. Importantly, nonsurvivors presented with significantly sustained lower expression in comparison with survivors. This down-regulation was reproduced by incubation of cells from healthy individuals with LPS, whole bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus), and, to a lower extent, with corticosteroids–in accordance with the concept of LPS-induced monocyte deactivation. In addition, CX3CL1 serum concentrations were elevated in patients supporting the hypothesis of increased cleavage of the membrane-anchored form expressed by endothelial cells. As CX3CR1/CX3CL1 interaction preferentially mediates arrest and migration of proinflammatory cells, the present observations may contribute to patients’ inability to kill invading microorganisms. This could represent an important new feature of sepsis-induced immunosuppression.
Epidemiologic Comparison of Injured High School Basketball Athletes Reporting to Emergency Departments and the Athletic Training Setting
Authors: Fletcher Erica N. , McKenzie Lara B. , Comstock R. Dawn
Published: April 2014

Context:

Basketball is a popular US high school sport with more than 1 million participants annually.

Objective:

To compare patterns of athletes with basketball-related injuries presenting to US emergency departments from 2005 through 2010 and the high school athletic training setting from the 2005–2011 seasons.

Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Setting:

Data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and the High School Reporting Information Online database.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Complex sample weights were used to calculate national estimates of basketball-related injuries for comparison.

Patients or Other Participants:

Adolescents from 13 to 19 years of age treated in US emergency departments for basketball-related injuries and athletes from 13 to 19 years of age from schools participating in High School Reporting Information Online who were injured while playing basketball.

Results:

Nationally, an estimated 1 514 957 (95% confidence interval = 1 337 441, 1 692 474) athletes with basketball-related injuries reported to the emergency department and 1 064 551 (95% confidence interval = 1 055 482, 1 073 620) presented to the athletic training setting. Overall, the most frequent injuries seen in the emergency department were lacerations and fractures (injury proportion ratios [IPRs] = 3.45 and 1.72, respectively), whereas those seen in the athletic training setting were more commonly concussions and strains/sprains (IPRs = 2.23 and 1.19, respectively; all P values < .0001). Comparisons of body site and diagnosis combinations revealed additional differences. For example, athletes with lower leg fractures more often presented to the emergency department (IPR = 6.53), whereas those with hand fractures more frequently presented to the athletic training setting (IPR = 1.18; all P values < .0001).

Conclusions:

Patterns of injury differed among high school basketball players presenting for treatment in the emergency department and the athletic training setting. Understanding differences specific to clinical settings is crucial to grasping the full epidemiologic and clinical picture of sport-related injuries. Certified athletic trainers play an important role in identifying, assessing, and treating athletes with sport-related injuries who might otherwise present to clinical settings with higher costs, such as the emergency department.
The other organs
Authors: Lazar Karen
Published: April 2014

No abstract available.
Virtuous suffering and the predicament of being handicapped. Towards a theology of the ‘disabled God puffing in a wheelchair’
Authors: Louw Daniel J.
Published: April 2014

The reality of disablement, being handicapped and physical disfigurement, opens up anew the theological debate regarding God-images in human suffering. It is argued that the Hellenistic understanding of the power of God, God as a pantokrator [Almighty], presupposes the immutability of an apathetic God. In terms of the logic of a cause-effect paradigm, God becomes the deterministic principle behind human suffering. With reference to a theologia crucis [theology of the Cross], the paradigm of theopaschitic theology proposes a pathetic understanding of God. Weakness and vulnerability (astheneia) describes an authentic identification of God with human suffering. Forsakenness (derelictio) reframes power as compassionate weakness or vulnerability and divine disability. The disabled God is, in terms of the New Testament a connection between divine compassion and human predicament (ta splanchna), the passionate God. Bowel categories make it possible to speak of the ‘puffing God in the wheelchair’. A theology of the cross should be supplemented by a theology of ability (theologia resurrectionis). The resurrection introduces the spiritual ability parrhesia − the transformation of the weakness of suffering into the fortigenitics of hope.Lyding tussen lot en deug binne die dilemma van gestremdheid. Die onwikkeling van ’n teologie van die ‘gestremde God, hygend in ’n rolstoel’. Die gegewendheid en realiteit van verskillende vorme van gestremdheid onderstreep menslike weerloosheid en magteloosheid. Vir gelowiges wat worstel met die vraag na sin in lyding, roep dit onder andere die vraag op na die verband tussen lyding en die almag en krag van God. Die basiese argument is dat die Hellenistiese konsep en paradigma van die mag van God, God as pantokrator, die starre onbeweeglikheid van ’n apatiese God voorveronderstel. Met behulp van die oorsaak-gevolg skema van denke, word God, in terme van die menslike logika, ’n deterministiese kousaliteitsbeginsel en verklaringsmeganisme. Met behulp van ’n teopasgitiese hermeneutiek binne die raamwerk van ’n kruisteologie, word aandag gegee aan die opsie van ’n lydende en meelydende God (die passie van God). Die swakheid en weerloosheid van God (astheneia) beskryf die egtheid en integriteit van God in terme van ’n wesenlike identifikasie met die lyding van mense. Verlatenheid (derelictio) transformeer die populêre, dogmatiese siening van almags-determinisme in die sensitiewe paradigma van weerlose medelye. ’n Teologie van die ‘gestremde God’ word ontwikkel in die lig van die teologiese implikasies van ta splanchna op ’n eksistensiële Godsverstaan. ’n Tipe erbarmingsteologie (‘binnegoed’ of dermteologie) word ontwikkel wat help om die metafoor van ’n ‘ gestremde God, hygend in ’n rolstoel’ pastoraal te verstaan. Met die oog op die omvattende verstaan van hoop, moet ’n kruisteologie aangevul word met ’n opstandingsteologie. Die uitwerking van troos op mense met gestremdheid is parrhēsia: die moed om te lewe.
Serosurveillance of foot-and-mouth disease virus in selected livestock-wildlife interface areas of Tanzania
Authors: Mkama Mathias , Kasanga Christopher J. , Sallu Raphael , Ranga Ezekia , Yongolo Mmeta , Mulumba Misheck , Rweyemamu Mark , Wambura Philemon
Published: April 2014

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is caused by a virus of the genus Aphthorvirus of the family Picornaviridae. There is great scientific need for determining the transmission dynamics of FMD virus (FMDV) by drawing more attention to the livestock-wildlife interface areas. A variety of literature suggests that buffalo could serve as reservoir of FMDV in wildlife and cattle. However, many FMDV research studies conducted on experimentally infected cattle as carriers and groups of animal highly susceptible to FMDV (i.e. bovine calves) have shown lower chances of transmission of the virus between carriers and the susceptible groups. These findings underscore the importance of continued research on the role played by carrier animals on FMDV transmission dynamics under natural conditions. The aim of this research study was to determine FMDV infection status among buffalo and cattle herds in selected livestock-wildlife interface areas. The sampled areas included Mikumi, Mkomazi and Ruaha national parks, where a total of 330 buffalo and bovine sera samples were collected. Laboratory analysis of the samples was done through the NSP ELISA technique using the PrioCHECK® FMDV NS Kit for detection of antibodies directed against 3ABC non-structural proteins and confirming natural infections. Results showed that 76.3% of tested sera samples were positive for FMDV. However, serotyping of NSP ELISA seroreactors with LPBE is yet to be done. This information is important for further epidemiological studies towards developing effective FMD control strategies.
Rapid, sensitive and effective diagnostic tools for foot-and-mouth disease virus in Africa
Authors: Kasanga Christopher J. , Yamazaki Wataru , Mioulet Valerie , King Donald P. , Mulumba Misheck , Ranga Ezekia , Deve Jimis , Mundia Cornelius , Chikungwa Patrick , Joao Laureta , Wambura Philemon N. , Rweyemamu Mark M.
Published: April 2014

Speed is paramount in the diagnosis of highly infectious diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), as well as for emerging diseases; however, simplicity is required if a test is to be deployed in the field. Recent developments in molecular biology have enabled the specific detection of FMD virus (FMDV) by reverse-transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), real-time  reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and sequencing. RT-LAMP enables amplification of the FMDV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase 3D(pol) gene at 63 °C (in the presence of a primer mixture and both reverse transcriptase and Bst DNA polymerase) for 1 h, whilst RT-qPCR amplifies the same gene in approximately 2 h 30 min. In this study, we compared the sensitivity and effectiveness of RT-LAMP against RT-qPCR for the detection of the FMDV 3D(pol) gene in 179 oesophageal-pharyngeal scraping samples (collected by probang) obtained from clinically healthy cattle and buffalo in Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania in 2010. The FMDV detection rate was higher with RT-LAMP (30.2%; n = 54) than with RT-qPCR (17.3%; n = 31). All samples positive by RT-qPCR (Cq ≤ 32.0) were also positive for the RT-LAMP assay; and both assays proved to be highly specific for the FMDV target sequence. In addition, the VP1 sequences of 10 viruses isolated from positive samples corresponded to the respective FMDV serotypes and genotypes. Our findings indicate that the performance of RT-LAMP is superior to RT-qPCR. Accordingly, we consider this test to have great potential with regard to the specific detection and surveillance of infectious diseases of humans and animals in resource-compromised developing countries.
The changing landscape of rabies epidemiology and control
Authors: Cleaveland Sarah , Beyer Hawthorne , Hampson Katie , Haydon Daniel , Lankester Felix , Lembo Tiziana , Meslin Francois-Xavier , Morters Michelle , Mtema Zacharia , Sambo Maganga , Townsend Sunny
Published: April 2014

Over the past 20 years, major progress has been made in our understanding of critical aspects of rabies epidemiology and control. This paper presents results of recent research, highlighting methodological advances that have been applied to burden of disease studies, rabies epidemiological modelling and rabies surveillance. These results contribute new insights and understanding with regard to the epidemiology of rabies and help to counteract misperceptions that currently hamper rabies control efforts in Africa. The conclusion of these analyses is that the elimination of canine rabies in Africa is feasible, even in wildlife-rich areas, through mass vaccination of domestic dogs and without the need for indiscriminate culling to reduce dog population density. Furthermore, the research provides valuable practical insights that support the operational planning and design of dog vaccination campaigns and rabies surveillance measures.
Preliminary investigation on presence of peste des petits ruminants in Dakawa, Mvomero district, Morogoro region, Tanzania
Authors: Kgotlele Tebogo , Kasanga Christopher J. , Kusiluka Lughano J.M. , Misinzo Gerald
Published: April 2014

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an acute viral disease of small ruminants characterised by the sudden onset of depression, fever, oculonasal discharges, sores in the mouth, foul-smelling diarrhoea and death. For many years, in Africa, the disease was mainly confined to West and Central Africa but it has now spread southwards to previously PPR-free countries including Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. The disease was first reported in Tanzania in 2008 when it was confined to the Northern Zone districts bordering Kenya. Presence of the disease has also been confirmed in southern Tanzania especially Mtwara region. Recently, a suspected outbreak of PPR in Dakawa area, Mvomero district, Morogoro region was reported. Clinical samples (lungs, intestines, lymph nodes, whole blood and sera) from suspected goats (n = 8) and sheep (n = 1) were submitted to Sokoine University of Agriculture for analysis. Molecular diagnosis by amplification of the nucleoprotein gene and the fusion gene of PPR virus (PPRV) using PPRV specific primers was done. Five goats and the sheep were positive for PPRV after performing RT-PCR. To our knowledge, this is the first report confirming the presence of PPR in the Mvomero district of the Morogoro region, Tanzania. Hence, more efforts should be put in place to prevent the spread of PPR in Tanzania.
The changing landscape of public health in sub-Saharan Africa: Control and prevention of communicable diseases needs rethinking
Authors: Mboera Leonard E.G. , Mfinanga Sayoki G. , Karimuribo Esron D. , Rumisha Susan F. , Sindato Calvin
Published: April 2014

In sub-Saharan Africa, communicable diseases (CDs) are the leading public health problems and major causes of morbidity and mortality. CDs result in significant individual suffering, disrupting daily life, threatening livelihoods and causing one-third of the years lost to illness or death worldwide. This paper aims to analyse the current strategies in the control and prevention of CDs in sub-Saharan Africa and proposes an ecohealth approach in relation to current changing epidemiological profiles. Whilst in recent years the burden of HIV and AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria have helped to mobilise large amounts of funding and expertise to help address them, many CDs, particularly those affecting the poor, have been neglected. People living in rural areas are also likely to be politically marginalised and living in degraded environments. They often lack assets, knowledge and opportunities to gain access to health care or protect themselves from infections. New diseases are also emerging at unprecedented rates and require attention. Many CDs are rooted in environmental and livelihood conditions and mediated by social and individual determinants. It is now increasingly recognised that a much broader, coordinated and multi-sectoral ecohealth approach is required to address CDs in sub-Saharan Africa. An ecohealth approach has been shown to be more robust in public health interventions than the traditional medical approach. The approach helps to generate an understanding of ecosystem factors that influence the emergence and spread of both old and new diseases, considers temporal and spatial dimensions of disease infection and allows systems thinking. In conclusion, establishing intersectoral and multisectoral linkages is important to facilitate joint efforts to address CDs at the national, district and community levels.
Mobile technologies for disease surveillance in humans and animals
Authors: Mwabukusi Mpoki , Karimuribo Esron D. , Rweyemamu Mark M. , Beda Eric
Published: April 2014

A paper-based disease reporting system has been associated with a number of challenges. These include difficulties to submit hard copies of the disease surveillance forms because of poor road infrastructure, weather conditions or challenging terrain, particularly in the developing countries. The system demands re-entry of the data at data processing and analysis points, thus making it prone to introduction of errors during this process. All these challenges contribute to delayed acquisition, processing and response to disease events occurring in remote hard to reach areas. Our study piloted the use of mobile phones in order to transmit near to real-time data from remote districts in Tanzania (Ngorongoro and Ngara), Burundi (Muyinga) and Zambia (Kazungula and Sesheke). Two technologies namely, digital and short messaging services were used to capture and transmit disease event data in the animal and human health sectors in the study areas based on a server–client model. Smart phones running the Android operating system (minimum required version: Android 1.6), and which supported open source application, Epicollect, as well as the Open Data Kit application, were used in the study. These phones allowed collection of geo-tagged data, with the opportunity of including static and moving images related to disease events. The project supported routine disease surveillance systems in the ministries responsible for animal and human health in Burundi, Tanzania and Zambia, as well as data collection for researchers at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania. During the project implementation period between 2011 and 2013, a total number of 1651 diseases event-related forms were submitted, which allowed reporters to include GPS coordinates and photographs related to the events captured. It was concluded that the new technology-based surveillance system is useful in providing near to real-time data, with potential for enhancing timely response in rural remote areas of Africa. We recommended adoption of the proven technologies to improve disease surveillance, particularly in the developing countries.
Foot and mouth disease in Zambia: Spatial and temporal distributions of outbreaks, assessment of clusters and implications for control
Authors: Sinkala Yona , Simuunza Martin , Muma John B. , Pfeiffer Dirk U. , Kasanga Christopher J. , Mweene Aaron
Published: April 2014

Zambia has been experiencing low livestock productivity as well as trade restrictions owing to the occurrence of foot and mouth disease (FMD), but little is known about the epidemiology of the disease in these endemic settings. The fundamental questions relate to the spatio-temporal distribution of FMD cases and what determines their occurrence. A retrospective review of FMD cases in Zambia from 1981 to 2012 was conducted using geographical information systems and the SaTScan software package. Information was collected from peer-reviewed journal articles, conference proceedings, laboratory reports, unpublished scientific reports and grey literature. A space–time permutation probability model using a varying time window of one year was used to scan for areas with high infection rates. The spatial scan statistic detected a significant purely spatial cluster around the Mbala–Isoka area between 2009 and 2012, with secondary clusters in Sesheke–Kazungula in 2007 and 2008, the Kafue flats in 2004 and 2005 and Livingstone in 2012. This study provides evidence of the existence of statistically significant FMD clusters and an increase in occurrence in Zambia between 2004 and 2012. The identified clusters agree with areas known to be at high risk of FMD. The FMD virus transmission dynamics and the heterogeneous variability in risk within these locations may need further investigation.
Antimicrobial Activity and Phytochemical Screening of Ficus Exasperata Root Bark
Authors: Adejoh OP , Yakubu FB , Igboanugo ABI , Shasanya OS
Published: April 2014

This study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of water and methanolic extracts from root bark of Ficus exasperata. The crude extracts were screened against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Samonella typhimurium Shigella spp, Candida valida, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and Fusarium flocciferum at 125μg/ml, 250μg/ml and 500μg/ml concentrations using agar well diffusion. The methanolic extracts had more inhibitory effect on test organisms than water extracts. Antimicrobial activity observed with water extract ranged between (10±0.24 - 25±0.20mm) with no detectable activity at 125μg/ml on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium. Similarly, no detectable activity was observed with Candida valida, Candida albicans and Fusaruium flocciferum at all concentrations with water extract. Better antimicrobial activity was observed with the methanolic crude extracts at all concentrations with all test organisms. The activity ranged between (25±0.19 - 35±0.82 mm). Prelimlinary phytochemical screening of Ficus exasperata root bark showed that it contains saponin, alkaloids, cardiac glycoside and reducing sugar with no traces of tannin and anthraquinone. The results of the study provide scientific basis for developing a novel broad spectrum antimicrobial herbal formulation in future.Keywords: Ficus exasperata, antimicrobial activity and phytochemical analysis
Analysis of Market Performance of Farm-Raised Clarias Gariepinus in the South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Ayanboye AO , Adedokun MA
Published: April 2014

This paper appraises the market performance of farm – raised catfish (Clarias gariepinus) in the South-Western Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed in the capital cities of the six States in South – Western Nigeria due to their level of catfish consumption by random selection of 80 Catfish Wholesalers (CW) and 155 Catfish Retailers (CR) from the fish markets in the States. Two sets of structured questionnaires were administered on wholesalers and retailers. To evaluate market performance, marketing margins and marketing efficiency were calculated for the wholesalers and retailers. The results showed that transportation costs were 26.65% and 17.50% for wholesalers and retailers respectively, this represented higher percentage in the total marketing costs for each trader. The retailers had higher marketing margin (N85.10/kg) than wholesalers (N69.60/kg). Retailers had higher marketing efficiency of 221.90% than wholesalers (178.23%). High positive gross and profit margin obtained at both levels implied that the sellers were able to cover both their variable and fixed costs. Farm – raised catfish (Clarias gariepinus) marketing was found to be efficient at both scales of operations. It therefore recommended that there is need to improve all the road networks to reduce transportation cost, and credit facilities should be provided for the traders to expand the scale of their operation for higher profits to improve their livelihood.Keywords: Fish marketing, Clarias gariepinus, marketing margin, market efficiency
Evaluation of the Insecticidal Potentials of Some Indigeneous Medicinal Plants on the Warehouse Moth (Ephestia cautella) (Walker)
Authors: Ine IE , Oyelowo OJ , Oloketuyi AJ
Published: April 2014

Pulverized plant materials of Eugenia aromatica (Baill) (seeds), Aristolochia ringes (Varl) (roots), Zanthoxylum xanthoxyloides (Lam.) Waterman (roots) and Azadirachta indica A. Juss (stem bark) were evaluated for their insecticidal activities against the warehouse moth, Ephestia cautella (Walker) reared on cocoa beans. The materials were applied at dosage rate of 0.00% (control), 2.50%, 5.00%, 10.00% and 15.00% respectively at intervals of 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours of treatment in order to access their insecticidal efficacies as protectants of cocoa against the warehouse moth, Ephestia cautella infestation. The result of the experiment revealed that all the plant materials were very effective on adult mortality. Eugenia aromatica proved to be the most effective producing 70% adult mortality at a low dosage rate of 2.50% within 48 hours post-treatment and Azadirachta indica was the least of all the four plant materials used with regards to insecticidal potency, producing 50% adult mortality within 96 hours post-treatment. There was significant difference (p < 0.05) in the mortality recorded by all the plant materials especially at higher concentrations and exposure period. The results suggest the ability of using these plant materials for cocoa protection as a safe alternative to insecticides.Keywords: Cocoa, Ephestia cautella, medicinal plants, efficacy evaluation, insecticidal.
Assessment of Tree Diversities in Oban Division of the Cross River National Park (CRNP), Nigeria
Authors: Adeyemi AA , Jimoh SO , Adesoye PO
Published: April 2014

Many tropical forests are under great anthropogenic pressure and require management intervention to maintain the overall biodiversity, productivity and sustainability. This cannot be possible without proper understanding of their structure and species diversities. Tree diversity in Oban Division of the CRNP was assessed. Systematic sampling technique was adopted for plot locations. Two transects, 2km long with a distance of 600m apart were cut in each of the three study sites. Four plots of 50m×50m were laid alternately along each transect at 500m intervals in the closed canopy and secondary forests. Forty-eight plots were used for the study. Tree growth parameters were measured on all the trees with Dbh>10cm within each plot. All the measured trees were identified and classified into their respective families. Species diversity indices were computed for the trees in the two forest types. The canopy layer to which each tree belongs was noted. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Diversity Indices, t-test as well as analysis of variance. A total of 118 species (107 genera and 37 families) of trees were recorded, with 72 and 69 species in the closed canopy and secondary forests respectively. The Strombosia spp. was the most abundant species in the forests. The family, Olacaceae accounted for 11.94% of the total individuals recorded in the area. This was followed by Mimosoideae (8.4%). The average tree stems/ha was 158 and 130 in the closed canopy and secondary forest respectively. The Simpson’ Indices were 0.99 and 0.98 for the two forest types respectively, which implied high floristic richness. The Shannon-Wiener’s Indices (4.36 and 4.14) and the equitability ratios (0.9513 and 0.9506) were high for the two forest types, which indicated moderate representation of most of the species in the area. The tree growth parameters significantly differ under different canopy layers (P<0.05). However, most of the parameters were not significantly different in the two forest types (P>0.05).Key words: forest-types, species, families, diversity indices, growth parameters
Effect of Gmelina Fruit Pulp Based Diets on Hematology and Histopathology of Rats
Authors: Ingweye JN , Kalio GA
Published: April 2014

Haematology and histopathology of the liver and kidney of rats fed ripe gmelina fruit pulp (RGFP) were evaluated using iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets with 12% crude protein and 3800 kcal (ME)/kg. Diet I had maize as the sole energy source, while in diets II, III, IV and V RGFP replaced maize as energy source at 25, 50, 75 and 100% levels, respectively. Thirty male albino rats at 21±2 days of age were used for the 28 days study. The five groups were randomly allocated to the five diets on weight equalization basis. At the end of the trial, blood was collected from three rats per treatment for determination of the haematological parameters. Their liver and kidney tissues were examined. Experiments followed the completely randomized design; one-way analysis of variance format. Significant (p<0.05) means were separated using the least significant difference. The mean cell haemoglobin count, lymphocytes, packed cell volume, white blood cells, monocytes, eosinophils, platelets and haemoglobin values of the rats ranged from 0.33-0.33ml%, 58.25-32.60%, 49.93-48.75 ml%, 6.65-5.75×109, 3.0-2.50%, 2.83-2.60%, 286.73-286.00×103/ml, 11.99-11.65g%, respectively. RGFP had no deleterious effect (p>0.05) on the haematological parameters. An examination of the kidney and liver tissues indicated abnormal cells from the 50% replacement level. It is concluded that RGFP may not replace more than 25% of maize in monogastric dietsKeywords: Hepatocytes, kidney, gmelina, fruit pulp, blood indices
The Effects of Exogenous Melatonin on Sperm Characteristics of West African Dwarf Goat Bucks
Authors: Fatoba TA , Adeloye AA
Published: April 2014

Twelve West African Dwarf Goat (WADG) bucks (12-15months aged) were randomly allotted to four groups and were caged, individually. In the melatonin treated groups (M), bucks were orally administrated 3 mg, 6 mg and 9 mg of melatonin per animal per day between 9.00 and 10.00 a.m. The control received no melatonin. During the experimental period of 60 days, duration of hot hours measured (≥32 ºC) per day, ranged between 6 to 10 hrs with an average of 8 hrs. Bodyweight and scrotal circumference were measured weekly; blood sera collected weekly for hormonal assay and semen was collected at 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after administration of the hormone to evaluate sperm quality. Melatonin administration improved bodyweight, significantly increased the overall sperm characteristics such as mass activity, mass motility, sperm concentration, percentages of normal live sperm (P<0.05) and decreased unripe, abnormal and dead sperm percentages (P<0.05). However, numerical increase in testosterone of Melatonin treated bucks was statistically significant (p<0.05). As a result, melatonin had a positive effect on reproductive status of WADG as shown by significant higher testicular development, testosterone and sperm quality. However the effect of melatonin was more pronounced in the 9 mg group than the 3 mg and 6mg in all the parameters considered. Higher scrotal circumferences and testosterone and sperm quality of bucks from melatonin-treated groups might be indicative of the positive effect of melatonin on growth. However this needs further investigation.Keywords: West African Dwarf Goat; bucks; melatonin; sperm characteristics; sperm quality