Journal of Vector Borne Diseases最新文献

Background objectives: To achieve schistosomiasis eradication plan by 2030, the development of efficient diagnosis is crucial. This study focuses on assessing the immunodiagnostic potential of S. haematobium (Sh) soluble egg antigen (SEA) and worm antigen (SWA) for urogenital schistosomiasis.

Methods: Urine microscopy identified 50 S. haematobium-positive and 50 negative samples from a total of 500 examined. An additional 50 samples from a non-endemic area were included, bringing the total number of samples used for the assay to 150. Indirect ELISA immunoassays using SEA and SWA as the probing antigens evaluated 50 sera samples each from Sh positive, negative endemic (NE), and non-endemic (NNE) individuals. SDS-PAGE analysis of crude protein extracts was conducted, followed by Western blot analysis using primary antibodies from pooled Sh-infected sera samples.

Results: Diagnostic performance was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity. The AUC values for Sh SEA and SWA were 0.75 and 0.76 in NE samples, and 0.91 and 0.89 in NNE samples, respectively. Sensitivities 90 (95% CI: 78.64 - 95.65)/ 64.71 (95% CI: 52.17 - 75.92), and specificities 50 (95% CI: 36.64 - 63.36)/ 81.25 (95% CI: 63.56 - 92.79) were recorded for SEA and SWA, respectively in NE samples. In addition, sensitivities 90 (78.64 - 95.65)/ 92 (95% CI: 80.77 - 97.78), and specificities 72 (95% CI: 58.33 - 82.53)/ 72.00 (95% CI: 57.51 - 83.77) were recorded for SEA and SWA, respectively in NNE samples. The mean antibody titer against Sh SEA in infected samples was significantly higher than in non-infected samples (P <0.0001). Eight (8) immunoreactive protein bands; 4 each of SEA and SWA were identified, indicating potential for diagnostic tool development.

Interpretation conclusion: Sh SEA and SWA demonstrate promise for diagnosing urogenital schistosomiasis in both endemic and non-endemic regions.

Background objectives: Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic disease and significant health concern particularly in endemic regions. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy in dexamethasone treatment on clinical outcomes in CCHF patients.

Methods: We included adult patients diagnosed with CCHF and those whose platelet count dropped to 70,000/mm3 or lower. The efficacy of dexamethasone on clinical outcomes was evaluated. It was a retrospective analytical study.

Results: The study included 55 patients. All patients received standard supportive treatment, and none of them received ribavirin therapy. It was observed that 23 (41.8%) of the patients were treated with dexamethasone. No significant differences were observed between patients treated with dexamethasone and those without dexamethasone treatment, regarding factors such as bleeding incidents during hospitalization, the need for blood product transfusions, thrombocyte recovery status, intensive care unit admission, and in-hospital mortality. In-hospital mortality was observed in two patients among all patients (3.6%).

Interpretation conclusion: Our study found that dexamethasone treatment did not lead to a significant improvement in clinical outcomes for CCHF patients.

The epidemiology of dengue has been demonstrating significant changes in recent years, with rising incidence of infection in countries with known endemicity and occurrence of fresh outbreaks in previously unaffected territories. India, which has been a traditional hotspot dengue virus (DENV) transmission in the endemic south-east Asian region, has also been affected by the sweeping changes in dengue epidemiology. Two remarkable developments characterize the alterations witnessed by India 2011-2017. Firstly, all parts of the country have witnessed abrupt replacement of existing DENV lineages with emerging novel strains. Secondly, co-circulation of multiple serotypes of DENV have been reported from all across the country 2011-2017; thereby hinting at the transition of the country towards hyper-endemicity. Considering the potential clinical implications of such epidemiological transformation in terms increasing involvement of pediatric patients and growing predisposition to serious complications, the present review provides an update on the serotypic and genotypic profile of dengue outbreaks that have been witnessed by different zones of India between 2011 and 2017. Dividing the country into northern, southern, eastern, western, central and north-eastern zones, we describe discrete zone-specific distribution patterns of DENV serotypes and genotypes and observe simultaneous circulation of different DENV strains in different parts of the country. Random shifts in the genetic characteristics of the circulating strains and the widespread co- circulation of all four serotypes underscore the need for undertaking continuous and representative molecular surveillance of the circulating DENV strains across the country for prompt identification of emerging strains and novel mutants; gain insights into the formulation of Dengue vaccines and develop a clearer understanding of the molecular basis of immune evasion, disease epidemiology and pathogenesis.

Background objectives: Aedes aegypti is a major vector responsible for spreading dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika viruses worldwide. These illnesses have increased globally due to climate and environmental changes. Vector control and management are the principal tactics for combating mosquitoes-borne diseases in the absence of an effective vaccine. The study aimed to ascertain bioactivities of Ageratum houstonianum leaf acetone extract (AhLAE) against Aedes aegypti.

Methods: Bioefficacy of AhLAE was tested against fourth instar larvae (L4) of Ae. aegypti using standard WHO protocol. The mortality, growth, and development of larvae, pupae and adults were recorded after exposure to the extract.

Results: The AhLAE showed larvicidal activity against L4 with LC50 and LC90 values of 401.88 and 691.24 mg/L, respectively. The mortality of the larvae further increased on subsequent days. The AhLAE caused a significant reduction in pupae formation and adult emergence. It also increased the larval duration of L4 and development duration of the pupa formed from the treated L4, indicating its growth-suppressing effects. The impact of the AhLAE was dose-dependent; high concentrations caused reduction in survival and growth of L4. Consequently, the L4-pupal and L4-adult growth indexes decreased. Additionally, the AhLAE induced developmental anomalies in the form of larva-pupa (L-P) intermediates.

Interpretation conclusion: The study found that the AhLAE exhibited larvicidal, growth-suppressing, and development-altering activities against Ae. aegypti. The findings suggest the potential of AhALE as a natural insecticidal agent for controlling mosquitoes.

Background objectives: Quantum chemical & molecular docking practices to deliver new perceptions into how etoposide, novobiocin, nogalamycin and netropsin interact with the biological targets PF3D7_0918600 (Plasmodium falciparum 3D7). Further the pharmacokinetics of a drug candidate which influenced by a variety of factors, including P- glycoprotein (Pgp) transport, PBB (Plasma protein binding), & BBB (Blood-brain barrier) permeation help to forecast the pharmacological characteristics of acetyl-CoA reductase inhibitors (ADMEs) and their metabolites.

Methods: At this point, we have elevated four compounds such as etoposide, novobiocin, nogalamycin & netropsin. We have also studied molecular docking against the target protein of the Plasmodium falciparum (PF3D7_0918600) through exhausting the AutoDock Vina platform and AutoDock-Tools (ADT) and pharmacokinetic properties were carried out using the ADMET 2.0.

Results: The relative results of molecular docking recommended a greater binding affinity of novobiocin with the selected receptors among other compounds. In-silico ADME screening is a computational approach utilised to forecast the pharmacological characteristics of acetyl- CoA reductase inhibitors (ADMEs) and their metabolites.

Interpretation conclusion: The ADMEs are based on the adsorption-desorption kinetics and pharmacopoeia. Adsorption and distribution analysis are used to assess the potential of the drug candidate. In vitro ADME is exploited to expect the effect of Pgp transport on the drug candidates. ADME has been used to predict CYP1A2 inhibitors and to predict PPB and BBB penetration. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on molecular docking, ADME and identifies potential drug candidates for ADME in vitro and in vivo.

Malaria continues to be a significant global health challenge, with millions of cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths reported annually. To combat this disease effectively, it is imperative to identify and address significant research gaps in malaria control and elimination efforts. This review synthesizes current knowledge and highlights critical gaps in several crucial areas of malaria research. Firstly, we discuss the complexities of vector biology and control, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of vector behavior, particularly in urban settings. Secondly, the study examines the challenges posed by drug resistance and the urgent need for alternative treatment strategies and novel drug targets. Thirdly, the review explores the ongoing quest for an effective malaria vaccine, underscoring the importance of understanding immunological correlates of protection. The study also explores medication resistance genes and genomic epidemiology, highlighting the need for more investigation into potential targets for drugs and vaccine candidates. Furthermore, it addresses the socioeconomic and environmental determinants of malaria transmission, highlighting the importance of integrating multidisciplinary approaches to address transmission dynamics. The study concludes with a discussion of how malaria transmission is impacted by climate change and the necessity of research to guide adaptation measures.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne infectious disease caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), posing a substantial threat to human health and property safety. Until now, there has been a lack of specific therapeutic options for treating JEV infections. In this review article, we provide a comprehensive discussion of JEV's characteristics, diagnostic methodologies, vaccine development efforts, and potential anti-JEV pharmaceuticals to provide insights and references that could be used to inform and enhance strategies for the prevention and control of Japanese encephalitis.

Malaria continues to remain a serious threat to public health, especially in regions with socio-economic and healthcare disparities. The paper attempts to contextualise the current scenario of malaria transmission, the advancement made towards its elimination and the multi-dimensional strategies that may be required to overcome cultural and regional barriers; with a focus on India's goal to eliminate malaria by 2030.

Background objectives: Area-specific identification and studies of Anopheles breeding habitat diversity, distribution, and productivity in different seasons are important in designing and advancing effective malaria vector control according to the local context and needs. This study identified and characterized Anopheles breeding habitats for targeted control of malaria vectors in Mazowe and Shamva districts.

Methods: Repeated cross-sectional surveys were conducted in Mazowe and Shamva districts between April and December 2023. Habitat productivity and physicochemical parameters were measured. Anopheles larvae were collected, reared to adults, and identified using morphological keys. SPSS software was used for data analysis. One-way ANOVA, Fisher's exact, Pearson's correlation, and simple linear regression tests were conducted.

Results: Seven different types of Anopheles breeding habitats were identified from 56 sites. The highest mean density of larvae was recorded in stream edge pools during the post-rainfall period. Anophelespretoriensis (67.4%), An. gambiae s.l. (23.1%), An. rufipes (9.2%) and An. coustani (0.38%) were breeding in the study area. Anopheles pretoriensis bred in all habitat types, An. coustani in swamps only while An. gambiae s.l. and An. rufipes preferred stream edge pools, roadside pools, and hoof prints. There was a significant positive correlation between larval density and dissolved oxygen (r = 0.535; p < 0.001) and conductivity (r = 0.288; p = 0.032).

Interpretation conclusion: Size, origin, and type of breeding habitat were positive indicators for different Anopheles species in the study area. Potential malaria vector breeding habitats should be targeted for larval control under the current malaria control and elimination phases in the two districts.

Background objectives: There is a persistent high microfilaria rate and variable reporting of coverage of Mass Drug Administration (MDA). The study aims to estimate the coverage, effective coverage, and compliance of drugs administered under MDA and to determine the predictors affecting the effective coverage.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Amethi, Lucknow, Raebareli and Sultanpur districts of Uttar Pradesh, India. The study participants were selected using multi-stage random sampling using Probability Proportional to Estimated Size (PPES). The coverage, effective coverage and compliance of drugs were presented as proportion. The multivariable logistic regression model was applied to identify the significant predictors for effective coverage.

Results: Of 4151 participants, 997 (24.0%), 340 (8.2%), 1158 (27.9%) and 1656 (39.9%) belonged to Amethi, Lucknow, Raebareli and Sultanpur districts respectively. The coverage ranged from 49.8% to 87.9% and effective coverage ranged from 51.8% to 73.2% across districts. The compliance was the poorest (70.7%) in Sultanpur. The source of information about MDA, the sex of the study participants and the area of residence emerged as predictors for effective coverage in the districts.

Interpretation conclusion: The effective coverage was poor with good drug complianceacross the districts. There is a need for a well-designed pre-MDA campaign addressing the fear of side effects of drugs and emphasising the presence of the community during the MDA round along with monitoring and evaluation of the round.