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International Maritime Health 2024The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an estimated 249 million malaria cases globally in 2023, of which 94% were reported from Africa. Tanzania, a Sub-Saharan...
BACKGROUND
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an estimated 249 million malaria cases globally in 2023, of which 94% were reported from Africa. Tanzania, a Sub-Saharan African country, has an exceptionally high malaria prevalence (3.6 million in 2023). The aim of the present study was to assess malaria prevalence rates in the Arusha Region, northern Tanzania. This region is famous for its national parks and wildlife reserves, and it is visited by thousands of tourists from all over the world each year. The assessment of malaria prevalence in the region is important in the context of the necessity to administer antimalarial chemoprophylaxis to international travellers.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The study group consisted of 101 people, residents of the Karatu District in the Arusha Region, aged between 1 and 73 years, who volunteered to participate in the screening. Phase I of the study was conducted in July 2022 in the Karatu Lutheran Hospital in Karatu Town (located close to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park). During this phase a venous blood sample was collected from each patient. The samples were tested for malaria using a rapid diagnostic test (mRDT); the same samples were also used to measure haemoglobin concentration and next they were applied onto the Whatman FTA micro cards for further molecular diagnostics in Poland (phase II).
RESULTS
mRDT detected two (2.0%) infections caused by Plasmodium (the etiological factor of malaria), the molecular tests (RT-PCR) confirmed the two positive results by mRDT but also detected infections in six other samples (7.9% in total). The study found that six patients were infected with the Plasmodium falciparum species, while two other subjects had co-infections (P. falciparum + P. ovale, P. falciparum + P. vivax + P. malariae).
CONCLUSIONS
The study findings confirm the prevalence of malaria in areas located close to national parks in northern Tanzania and support the use of antimalarial chemoprophylaxis in international travellers visiting the area. The present study found co-infections caused by four different species of Plasmodium species which supports the prevalence of different parasitic species in Sub-Saharan Africa and is in line with CDC reports but contrary to WHO reports which estimate that 100% of malaria cases in Sub-Saharan Africa are caused by P. falciparum.
Topics: Humans; Tanzania; Prevalence; Adult; Middle Aged; Adolescent; Male; Female; Child; Aged; Young Adult; Child, Preschool; Malaria; Infant; Antimalarials
PubMed: 38949218
DOI: 10.5603/imh.100440 -
Frontiers in Veterinary Science 2024lice are an extensive parasitic concern in goat populations worldwide, posing significant economic and health risks. This study examined the identification of alleles...
INTRODUCTION
lice are an extensive parasitic concern in goat populations worldwide, posing significant economic and health risks. This study examined the identification of alleles of resistance to pyrethroid and mutations in samples obtained from goats in five provinces in western and northwestern Iran.
METHODS
Morphological and molecular techniques were employed to identify the louse species. Molecular identification methods and gene sequencing were used to identify resistance-associated mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The results revealed that six amino acid substitutions, including threonine-to-isoleucine (T917I), leucine-to-phenylalanine (L920F), isoleucine-to-phenylalanine (I927F), phenylalanine-to-alanine (F928A), valine-to-arginine (V929R), and arginine-to-leucine (R930L) mutations, were present in the VGSC gene of lice from various regions of Iran. These findings suggest the potential for pyrethroid resistance development in this louse species, highlighting the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Such strategies, which combine selective insecticides, regular grooming, and environmental sanitation, are crucial for effectively managing infestations and preserving the efficacy of pyrethroids for pest control. Moreover, the emergence of novel kdr mutations underscores the need for ongoing research into the molecular mechanisms underlying these mutations. This research is vital for developing strategies to combat pyrethroid resistance and maintaining the efficacy of insecticides in controlling lice.
PubMed: 38948670
DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1380328 -
F1000Research 2024This scoping review will identify existing literature regarding contextual factors relevant to vector-control interventions to prevent malaria. We will use the findings... (Review)
Review
OBJECTIVE
This scoping review will identify existing literature regarding contextual factors relevant to vector-control interventions to prevent malaria. We will use the findings of the scoping review to produce an interactive evidence and gap map. The map will assist in the priority setting, development, and conduct of targeted systematic reviews. These systematic reviews seek to assist the Vector Control and Insecticide Resistance Unit of the World Health Organization's Global Malaria Programme by informing recommendation development by their Guidelines Development Group.
INTRODUCTION
Malaria contributes substantially to the global burden of disease, with an estimated 247 million cases and 619,000 deaths in 2021. Vector-control is key in reducing malaria transmission. Vector-control interventions directly target the mosquito, reducing the potential for parasite infections. These interventions commonly include insecticides used in indoor residual spraying or insecticide-treated nets and larval source management. Several new vector-control interventions are under evaluation to complement these. In addition to estimating the effects of interventions on health outcomes, it is critical to understand how populations at risk of malaria consider them in terms of their feasibility, acceptability, and values.
INCLUSION CRITERIA
Eligible studies will have assessed the contextual factors of feasibility or acceptability of the interventions of interest, or the valuation of the outcomes of interests. These assessments will be from the perspective of people who receive (residents) or deliver (workers or technicians) the vector-control intervention for the purpose of preventing malaria.
METHODS
We will conduct this scoping review in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and report in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). We will construct the evidence and gap map following guidance from the Campbell Collaboration.
Topics: Malaria; Humans; Mosquito Control; Animals; Insecticides; Mosquito Vectors
PubMed: 38948349
DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.144661.1 -
Bio-protocol Jun 2024Human babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by pathogens. The disease, which presents with malaria-like symptoms, can be life-threatening, especially in individuals...
Human babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by pathogens. The disease, which presents with malaria-like symptoms, can be life-threatening, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems and the elderly. The worldwide prevalence of human babesiosis has been gradually rising, prompting alarm among public health experts. In other pathogens, genetic techniques have proven to be valuable tools for conducting functional studies to understand the importance of specific genes in development and pathogenesis as well as to validate novel cellular targets for drug discovery. Genetic manipulation methods have been established for several non-human and species and, more recently, have begun to be developed for human Babesia parasites. We have previously reported the development of a method for genetic manipulation of the human pathogen . This method is based on positive selection using the hDHFR gene as a selectable marker, whose expression is regulated by the ef-1aB promoter, along with homology regions that facilitate integration into the gene of interest through homologous recombination. Herein, we provide a detailed description of the steps needed to implement this strategy in to study gene function. It is anticipated that the implementation of this method will significantly improve our understanding of babesiosis and facilitate the development of novel and more effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of human babesiosis. Key features This protocol provides an effective means of transfection of , enabling genetic manipulation and editing to gain further insights into its biology and pathogenesis. The protocol outlined here for the electroporation of represents an advancement over previous methods used for [1]. Improvements include higher volume of culture used during the electroporation step and an enhancement in the number of electroporation pulses. These modifications likely enhance the efficiency of gene editing in , allowing for quicker and more effective selection of transgenic parasites.
PubMed: 38948263
DOI: 10.21769/BioProtoc.5016 -
International Journal For Parasitology.... Aug 2024Reduncin bovids of spp. (Bovidae: Reduncini) are natively distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, although some populations have been introduced into parks and zoos around...
Remarks on spp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from spp. (Bovidae: Reduncini), with supplementary morphological data of Ricci-Bitti et al., 1973 from a new host subspecies, the common waterbuck (Ogilbyi, 1833).
Reduncin bovids of spp. (Bovidae: Reduncini) are natively distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, although some populations have been introduced into parks and zoos around the world. The majority of the species has declining populations, being categorized as threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources; therefore, protective measures for the conservation of spp. are necessary, including the study of their parasites, such as the eimeriid coccidians (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae). In this context, the aim of the current study was to brings together the taxonomic data from the descriptions and reports of spp. from reduncin bovids, based on the detailed morphological identification of Ricci-Bitti, Pampiglione & Kabala, 1973 from a new host subspecies, the common waterbuck (Ogilbyi, 1833), in a safari park of Portugal. Five spp. are recorded from reduncin bovids, in addition to six more reports identified generically as sp., which were compared and taxonomically rearranged. The oocysts identified as in the current study were compatible with the original description and were supplemented for some taxonomic characters not originally included, such as: Stieda body flattened to nipplelike, sub-Stieda body rounded to trapezoidal, sporocyst residuum granular and membrane-bound, in addition to greater details of the micropyle, among others. Finally, the current study highlights the importance of studying the coccidians of reduncin bovids for the conservation of spp. due to the possibility of these spp. are extra-intestinal parasites, which can potentially cause severe coccidiosis associated with increased morbidity and mortality in certain threatened populations of spp.
PubMed: 38948237
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2024.100952 -
PeerJ 2024The integration of diagnostic methods holds promise for advancing the surveillance of malaria transmission in both endemic and non-endemic regions. Serological assays...
BACKGROUND
The integration of diagnostic methods holds promise for advancing the surveillance of malaria transmission in both endemic and non-endemic regions. Serological assays emerge as valuable tools to identify and delimit malaria transmission, serving as a complementary method to rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) and thick smear microscopy. Here, we evaluate the potential of antibodies directed against peptides encompassing the entire amino acid sequence of the MSP-1 Sal-I strain as viable serological biomarkers for exposure.
METHODS
We screened peptides encompassing the complete amino acid sequence of the Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (MSP-1) Sal-I strain as potential biomarkers for exposure. Here, immunodominant peptides specifically recognized by antibodies from individuals infected with were identified using the SPOT-synthesis technique followed by immunoblotting. Two 15-mer peptides were selected based on their higher and specific reactivity in immunoblotting assays. Subsequently, peptides p70 and p314 were synthesized in soluble form using SPPS (Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis) and tested by ELISA (IgG, and subclasses).
RESULTS
This study unveils the presence of IgG antibodies against the peptide p314 in most -infected individuals from the Brazilian Amazon region. B-cell epitope prediction further supports the utilization of p314 as a potential biomarker for evaluating malaria transmission, strengthened by its amino acid sequence being part of a conserved block of MSP-1. Indeed, compared to patients infected with and uninfected individuals never exposed to malaria, -infected patients have a notably higher recognition of p314 by IgG1 and IgG3.
Topics: Humans; Malaria, Vivax; Merozoite Surface Protein 1; Plasmodium vivax; Biomarkers; Antibodies, Protozoan; Immunoglobulin G; Adult; Female; Male; Middle Aged; Peptides; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Young Adult; Adolescent; Amino Acid Sequence
PubMed: 38948214
DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17632 -
Trauma Case Reports Aug 2024Thumb distal amputation refers to the loss of a portion of the thumb at or near the tip, which can be caused by various injuries such as crush injuries, lacerations, or...
Thumb distal amputation refers to the loss of a portion of the thumb at or near the tip, which can be caused by various injuries such as crush injuries, lacerations, or avulsions. Several surgical methods can be used to repair thumb distal amputations, including composite graft, flap reconstruction, replantation, and amputation revision. In this case report, we describe a successful surgical procedure performed on three healthy men (19, 26, and 44 years old) who suffered a sharp amputation of their left and right hands thumb. In one case initial fixation of the amputated part was performed by a general orthopedic surgeon as a composite graft, two other cases were referred us without any procedure. The procedure involved irrigation and minimal debridement and deepithelializing the amputated part and fixation it with one or two 1.5 mm steinman pins and repairing the nail bed with7/0 absorbable sutures. An adiposofaciocutaneous flap from the index finger was used to cover the pulp of the thumb and the nail bed, while a full-thickness grafts from the same wrist in one case and medial part of ipsilateral arm in others were used to repair the defect on the dorsal side of the index finger. The wound was dressed, and the sutures were removed after two weeks. The base of the flap was detached from the index finger after three weeks, and the kwires were removed after six weeks. The flap and graft were successfully taken, except for a small part of the tip of the thumb. Two years after the operation, in two patients and 3 months in whom was operated recently, all the patient's thumbs had a reasonable shape and length with minimal nail deformity. The use of an index finger based adiposofaciocutaneous flap and full-thickness graft in these cases allowed for successful reconstruction of the thumb and, improving both function and appearance.
PubMed: 38948102
DOI: 10.1016/j.tcr.2024.101052 -
Cureus May 2024Tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus cause parasitic disease in humans through the ingestion of eggs in contaminated food and water. Rupture of slowly enlarging cysts in...
Tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus cause parasitic disease in humans through the ingestion of eggs in contaminated food and water. Rupture of slowly enlarging cysts in the liver, lungs, and other organs can be life-threatening and many deaths are recorded yearly worldwide. Surgery and removal of such cysts remain the most effective treatment. Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) routinely placed in the ICU in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), may provide time and adequate oxygenation for the completion of surgery in echinococcosis cases. In this article, we present a rare case of pulmonary echinococcosis in a young patient requiring ECMO support prior to surgery.
PubMed: 38947597
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61302 -
Cureus May 2024Omalizumab, a humanized anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, is commonly employed in the treatment of antihistamine-refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), where it...
Omalizumab, a humanized anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, is commonly employed in the treatment of antihistamine-refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), where it significantly reduces free IgE levels, minimizing histamine release from basophils and mast cells. Despite its efficacy, there are concerns regarding its effect on parasitic defense due to IgE's role in combating parasitic infestations. We present a case of a 28-year-old female agriculturist with a six-month history of CSU who experienced a paradoxical exacerbation of her symptoms following an increase in the omalizumab treatment dose. This deterioration coincided with a serologically confirmed parasitic infection with and . Despite normal eosinophil counts and IgE levels, which are typically used to identify parasitic infections, the patient's clinical worsening prompted further investigation that led to the identification of the parasitic infection. Treatment with albendazole and omalizumab discontinuation led to the resolution of her CSU, suggesting that the parasitic infection was contributing to the symptom exacerbation. This case highlights the need for careful screening for parasitic infections before initiating omalizumab in antihistamine-refractory CSU patients from endemic regions, or patients who deteriorate clinically on omalizumab, especially when other indicators such as eosinophil count and IgE levels might not suggest infection. It also underscores the importance of considering a tailored approach to managing CSU that balances effective treatment with the potential for adverse effects related to immunomodulation.
PubMed: 38947573
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61453 -
Biological Invasions 2024Expansion of global commerce has facilitated pathogen pollution via the transportation and translocation of invasive species and their associated parasites and...
UNLABELLED
Expansion of global commerce has facilitated pathogen pollution via the transportation and translocation of invasive species and their associated parasites and pathogens. In Florida, imported cane toads () were accidentally and intentionally released on multiple occasions. Early populations were found to be infested with the invasive tick, , yet it is unknown if these ticks dispersed with their hosts as cane toads spread throughout much of the state. The objectives of our investigation were to (1) determine if there are fewer tick infestations on toads at the periphery than at the core of their distribution as predicted by founder effect events, and (2) identify if ticks were infected with exotic pathogens. We captured toads from 10 populations across Florida. We collected ticks, vent tissue, and tick attachment site tissue from each toad, then tested samples for bacteria in the genus, . We found that 3/10 populations had toads that were infested with , and infested individuals were in the earliest introduced populations at the core of their distribution. Pathogen testing confirmed in ticks, but not in toad tissues. Haplotype networks could not clearly distinguish if in Florida was more closely related to North or South American strains, but host-tick associations suggest that the pathogen was exotic to Florida. Our investigation demonstrated that an invasive species facilitated the introduction of parasites and pathogens into Florida, yet the invasive tick species encountered limitations to dispersal on this host species.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10530-024-03291-9.
PubMed: 38947421
DOI: 10.1007/s10530-024-03291-9