Article
Parasitology
Daniel Chieh-Ding Lin, Shih-Che Weng, Po-Nien Tsao, Justin Jang Hann Chu, Shin-Hong Shiao
Summary: Co-infection of dengue virus and Zika virus in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes enhance viral replication and suggest that the NS5 protein is a potential target for vector control.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2023)
News Item
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Mariana Lenharo
Summary: The facility will produce up to five billion bacteria-infected mosquitoes per year.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Leon E. Hugo, Gordana Rasic, Andrew J. Maynard, Luke Ambrose, Catherine Liddington, Callum J. E. Thomas, Nisa Suraj Nath, Melissa Graham, Clay Winterford, B. M. C. Randika Wimalasiri-Yapa, Zhiyong Xi, Nigel W. Beebe, Gregor J. Devine
Summary: Biological control of mosquito vectors using Wolbachia bacteria is a promising strategy for managing arboviral diseases. Researchers have successfully developed a strain of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes with the Wolbachia strain wAlbB, which has been shown to suppress wild mosquito populations. Furthermore, this strain is resistant to dengue and Zika viruses and genetically similar to endemic populations in Queensland, Australia.
PLOS NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES
(2022)
Review
Virology
Elizabeth Balint, Amelia Montemarano, Emily Feng, Ali A. Ashkar
Summary: The recent outbreak of Zika virus in Latin America has raised concerns about its ability to induce neurological diseases and its potential for sexual transmission. With mosquito-borne and sexual transmission routes, Zika virus poses a significant global health threat beyond its current geographical limits. Multiple mouse models have been developed to study Zika virus pathogenesis and develop vaccines, but few have considered the impact of sexual transmission on immunity and disease progression.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Somia Iqtadar, Thuan Huu Vo, Mehreen Mehmood, Muhammad Salman, Mamunur Rahman Malik, Faisal Masud, Nhu Nguyen Tran Minh
Summary: The study conducted in Punjab in 2016 aimed to detect ZIKV using RT-PCR among samples that tested negative for Dengue virus. However, no samples were found positive for any ZIKV, DENV or Chikungunya virus. The concordance between NS1 and IgM ELISA was 13%.
PAKISTAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Virology
Karla Ausderau, Sabrina Kabakov, Elaina Razo, Ann M. Mitzey, Kathryn M. Bach, Chelsea M. Crooks, Natalie Dulaney, Logan Keding, Cristhian Salas-Quinchucua, Lex G. Medina-Magues, Andrea M. Weiler, Mason Bliss, Jens Eickhoff, Heather A. Simmons, Andres Mejia, Kathleen M. Antony, Terry Morgan, Saverio Capuano, Mary L. Schneider, Matthew T. Aliota, Thomas C. Friedrich, David H. O'Connor, Thaddeus G. Golos, Emma L. Mohr
Summary: Maternal dengue virus immunity may exacerbate neurodevelopmental deficits in offspring exposed to Zika virus, indicating the need for human studies to evaluate the impact of maternal DENV immunity on long-term neurodevelopment.
Article
Cell Biology
Hsin-Wei Wang, Hsing-Han Li, Shih-Cheng Wu, Cheng-Kang Tang, Hui-Ying Yu, Ya-Chen Chang, Pei-Shan Sung, Wei-Liang Liu, Matthew P. Su, Guann-Yi Yu, Li-Rung Huang, Chun-Hong Chen, Shie-Liang Hsieh
Summary: In this study, researchers found that C-type lectin 5A (CLEC5A) plays a crucial role in testicular damage caused by Zika virus infection. CLEC5A enables leukocytes to infiltrate past the blood-testis barrier and induce damage to testicular and epididymal tissues, and it is associated with inflammatory responses. Therefore, CLEC5A may be a potential therapeutic target for the prevention of male reproductive organ injuries in Zika virus patients.
JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Silvia Tortosa-La Osa, Eva Martin-Ruiz, Angela Galan-Relano, Antonio Olry de Labry-Lima
Summary: This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of environmental interventions for the prevention and reduction of vector-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. The findings suggest that interventions such as eliminating small containers, manipulating large tanks, and cleaning outdoor spaces can significantly reduce pupae indices, with easy implementation and low resource requirements. However, the evidence on whether reducing mosquito abundance leads to a reduction in disease transmission risk is limited. It is recommended to consider epidemiological, environmental, and sociodemographic factors in addition to entomological indicators.
Article
Cell Biology
Jose Angel Regla-Nava, Ying-Ting Wang, Camila R. Fontes-Garfias, Yang Liu, Thasneem Syed, Mercylia Susantono, Andrew Gonzalez, Karla M. Viramontes, Shailendra Kumar Verma, Kenneth Kim, Sara Landeras-Bueno, Chun-Teng Huang, Daniil M. Prigozhin, Joseph G. Gleeson, Alexey Terskikh, Pei-Yong Shi, Sujan Shresta
Summary: Zika virus and dengue virus co-circulate in many countries. This study found that Zika virus strains passaged in cultured mosquito cells exhibit increased pathogenesis in dengue virus-immune mice. A specific mutation was identified to enhance Zika virus replication.
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
A. Utarini, C. Indriani, R. A. Ahmad, W. Tantowijoyo, E. Arguni, M. R. Ansari, E. Supriyati, D. S. Wardana, Y. Meitika, I. Ernesia, I. Nurhayati, E. Prabowo, B. Andari, B. R. Green, L. Hodgson, Z. Cutcher, E. Rances, P. A. Ryan, S. L. O'Neill, S. M. Dufault, S. K. Tanamas, N. P. Jewell, K. L. Anders, C. P. Simmons
Summary: The cluster-randomized trial in Indonesia showed that deploying mosquitoes infected with the wMel strain of Wolbachia pipientis led to a reduction in symptomatic, virologically confirmed dengue infections and hospitalizations among residents.
NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Constantino Carreto, Roxana Gutierrez-Romero, Tania Rodriguez
Summary: This study analyzes the temporal and spatial dynamics of dengue, chikungunya, and Zika in Mexico and evaluates the impact of seasonal climatological variability on the transmission risk of these mosquito-borne diseases. The results show a strong correlation between the transmission risk index and the incidence of these diseases, indicating that the index is a valuable tool for surveillance in settings with varied climates and limited capacity.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH GEOGRAPHICS
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Triwibowo Ambar Garjito, Lulus Susanti, Mujiyono Mujiyono, Mega Tyas Prihatin, Dwi Susilo, Sidiq Setyo Nugroho, Mujiyanto Mujiyanto, Raden Ajeng Wigati, Tri Baskoro Tunggul Satoto, Sylvie Manguin, Laurent Gavotte, Roger Frutos
Summary: There are various methods to collect and assess the abundance of dengue vector mosquitoes, but the lack of long-term sampling methods may result in variability and lack of statistical significance in the results. There is no correlation between the collection methods and the presence of dengue virus in mosquitoes or the incidence of dengue, and the efficacy of a given method is inconsistent across different locations.
FRONTIERS IN MEDICINE
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Whitney R. Baldwin, Holli A. Giebler, Janae L. Stovall, Ginger Young, Kelly J. Bohning, Hansi J. Dean, Jill A. Livengood, Claire Y. -H. Huang
Summary: The researchers developed a live-attenuated Zika vaccine based on a clinically proven dengue virus serotype-2 vaccine backbone and demonstrated that a single dose can protect mice and non-human primates from Zika virus infection.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Review
Immunology
Jarin Taslem Mourosi, Ayobami Awe, Swati Jain, Himanshu Batra
Summary: Dengue virus and Zika virus are mosquito-borne viruses that can cause severe diseases. There are no approved vaccines for these viruses, but there are several potential candidates in clinical trials, including nucleic acid vaccines.
Article
Biophysics
Isabella Sampaio, Felipe Domingues Quatroni, Juliana Naomi Yamauti Costa, Valtencir Zucolotto
Summary: A single chip that distinguishes between Zika and Dengue infections has been developed. The chip uses the non-structural protein 1 (NS1) as biomarkers and can also detect the spike proteins present in the SARS-CoV-2. This portable diagnostic test offers a point-of-care solution for the simultaneous detection of Zika, Dengue, and other viral infections.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2022)
Article
Psychology, Multidisciplinary
Li Ping Wong, Sik Loo Tan, Haridah Alias, Thiam Eng Sia, Aik Saw
Summary: This study assessed death anxiety and psychophysical symptom experience during cadaveric dissection among participants in the Silent Mentor Program (SMP). The results showed that the mentoring concept of the SMP program had beneficial effects on improving attitude towards death and reducing psychological symptoms associated with dissection. Although there was an initial increase in physical symptoms, they significantly decreased one month after the program ended.
OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Jiwen Wu, Guoxi Cai, Yi Fan, Kazuhiko Arima, Yulan Lin, Liping Wong, Zhuo Zhang, Taro Yamamoto, Kouichi Morita, Akira Yoshikawa, Yixiao Lu, Kiyoshi Aoyagi
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the attitudes and acceptability of the Japanese public towards COVID-19 vaccines. The results showed that over half of the participants responded positively towards the vaccines, with the youngest age group being the most willing to be vaccinated. Female participants and those who had previously hesitated or refused vaccines were more likely to have vaccine hesitancy. This study highlights the importance of improving vaccine promotion and acceptance to slow down or delay the spread of the virus.
Article
Rehabilitation
Wai-Chee Kuan, Yek-Ching Kong, Ros Suzanna Bustamam, Li-Ping Wong, Yin-Ling Woo, Nur Aishah Taib, Gwo-Fuang Ho, Hafizah Zaharah, Cheng-Har Yip, Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy
Summary: The study aimed to understand the impact of cancer on the sexual well-being of patients in a middle-income setting with limited supportive care services. Through focus group discussions with 102 patients, three major themes emerged: loss, adjustments, and unmet supportive care needs. Changes in physical appearance and childbearing abilities negatively affected self-confidence and body image, especially in females. It was found that sexual healthcare services including counseling and clinical management of sexual dysfunction should not be overlooked in low- and middle-income countries.
SEXUALITY AND DISABILITY
(2023)
Article
Anatomy & Morphology
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Sik-Loo Tan, Aik Saw
Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the Silent Mentor Programme, resulting in the rejection of body donations and negative emotional impact on the next-of-kin. Students are also concerned that the program's online format may hinder the teaching of humanistic values and empathy. Counselling interventions and efforts to compensate for educational gaps are important to address these issues.
ANATOMICAL SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Hematology
Noor Yuhyi Sulaiman, Nur Adila Anuar, Normala Arshad, Chin Sum Cheong, Chee Chiat Liong, Shasha Khairullah, Edmund Fui Min Chin, Ping Chong Bee, I. Ching Sam, Thevambiga Iyadorai, Gin Gin Gan
Summary: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in patients post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in Malaysia and evaluate the associated risk factors. The major risk factors for CMV infection were haplo-identical HSCT and presence of graft versus host disease (GVHD). Vigilant monitoring of CMV infection is necessary in these patients.
INDIAN JOURNAL OF HEMATOLOGY AND BLOOD TRANSFUSION
(2023)
Article
Psychiatry
Li Ping Wong, Nik Daliana Nik Farid, Haridah Alias, Sofia Md Yusop, Zuhrah Musa, Zhijian Hu, Yulan Lin
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the response of young people from low-income families to COVID-19. A cross-sectional study was conducted with young people aged between 18 and 24 years, using a convenience sampling approach and Google Surveys to collect data. The results showed a low level of parent-child conflict, but higher conflicts were found in females and youth from households with lower income. The study also found that young people from low-income households reported more severe symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the lives of vulnerable youth in low-income families and strengthen advocacy efforts.
FRONTIERS IN PSYCHIATRY
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Nik Daliana Nik Farid, Sofia Md Yusop, Zuhrah Musa, Zhijian Hu, Yulan Lin
Summary: This study examines parent-child relationships and the psychological health of parents from low-income families after the easing of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 553 parents in low-income community settings. Results show a low level of parent-child conflict overall, with married parents and those in the 60-72 age group, unemployed/retired/housewives, and lower-income groups reporting more conflicts. Higher levels of physical activity and sufficient sleep were associated with lower levels of parent-child conflict. Only about 1% of participants reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress. The findings suggest low risk of parent-child conflict and psychological sequelae after the pandemic restrictions, possibly due to government support measures. Vulnerable parents identified as at risk of conflict should be a focus of future advocacy efforts.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Li Ping Wong, Arulvani Rajandra, Juraina Abd Jamil, Sazaly AbuBakar, Yulan Lin, Hai Yen Lee
Summary: This study aimed to assess the impact of a dengue awareness calendar on knowledge, belief, and practices among indigenous communities. The results showed significant improvements in knowledge, perceived severity, cues to action, self-efficacy, and prevention practices after the intervention. Participants with primary and secondary education reported higher improvements in practices score, while housewives and higher perception of severity and susceptibility were less likely to show improvements in prevention practices score.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Jia Yin Lee, Nasrin Aghamohammadi
Summary: This study investigated the level of knowledge and intention to improve indoor air quality and building ventilation among restaurant managers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The findings showed that most managers had low knowledge level and moderate intention to improve IAQ and ventilation. However, there was no correlation between knowledge level, intention, and the implementation of control measures. This study provides insights for authorities to assess and review current standard operating procedures and guidelines, and to enhance the country's preparedness for future pandemics.
BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Kit Mun Tan, Pooi Fong Wong, Dharmani Devi Murugan, Zhijian Hu, Yulan Lin
Summary: Targeting cellular senescence with drug candidates for age-related comorbidities has attracted widespread interest. This study aimed to gather insights from experts in the pharmaceutical and healthcare field regarding the potential and challenges of translating senolytic drugs for treatment of vascular aging-related disorders.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Li Ping Wong, Haridah Alias, Sin How Lim
Summary: Understanding the knowledge and attitudes of MSM regarding HPV vaccination is important in Malaysia to reduce healthcare disparities. This study found that 60.3% of participants expressed an intention to receive the HPV vaccination. Homosexual and bisexual participants were more inclined to receive the vaccine, and the intention to vaccinate was positively associated with higher knowledge levels. However, participants had low perception of susceptibility to HPV infection and expected to face stigma in healthcare settings during vaccination programs.
Article
Clinical Neurology
Du Wei, Tharani Loganathan, Li Ping Wong
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence, symptoms, and disability of migraine among bank employees in Guizhou province, China, and analyzed the occupational risk factors associated with migraine positivity and symptoms. The results showed that migraine is common among bank employees in this province, with a significant burden of symptoms and disability. Occupational risk factors include working in data analysis and information technology roles, as well as in remote branches.
JOURNAL OF HEADACHE AND PAIN
(2023)
Article
Health Care Sciences & Services
Khanh Nguyen Di, Sun Tee Tay, Sasheela Sri La Sri Ponnampalavanar, Duy Toan Pham, Li Ping Wong
Summary: This study examines the perspectives of physicians in Vietnam on the factors influencing antibiotic resistance (ABR), focusing on knowledge deficiency, antibiotic prescribing practice, and regulations and policies. The findings reveal weaknesses in current antibiotic prescribing strategies and management policies, providing valuable information for policymakers in combating ABR in Vietnam.
Article
Psychology, Multidisciplinary
Li Ping Wong, Sik Loo Tan, Haridah Alias, Thiam Eng Sia, Aik Saw
Summary: This study used qualitative interviews to describe the psychological impact and experiences of family members of silent mentors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many expressed feelings of remorse and unrest about the delayed Silent Mentor Programme, especially among elderly family members, but it did not significantly affect their functional health and well-being. These findings provide important insights into the mental health implications of delaying the SMP in future outbreaks or crises.
OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING
(2023)
