Article
Infectious Diseases
Dawit Hawaria, Solomon Kibret, Daibin Zhong, Ming-Chieh Lee, Kidane Lelisa, Belayneh Bekele, Muntasha Birhanu, Mathe Mengesha, Hiwot Solomon, Delenesaw Yewhalaw, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study confirmed the invasion of An. stephensi in southern Ethiopia by identifying larvae and adult mosquitoes in the area. The presence of both stages of this mosquito species raises concerns about its potential impact on local malaria transmission and the need for further investigation on its ecology, behavior, and role in disease transmission.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Alvaro Molina-Cruz, Gaspar E. Canepa, Ankit Dwivedi, Weimin Liu, Nadia Raytselis, Christophe Antonio-Nkondjio, Beatrice H. Hahn, Joana C. Silva, Carolina Barillas-Mury
Summary: Plasmodium falciparum malaria originated from gorilla malaria parasites transmitted by African mosquitoes and adapted to humans. The Pfs47 protein on the parasite surface helps it evade the mosquito immune system, and genetic analysis shows that ancestral P. falciparum readily adapted to Asian vectors. Furthermore, experimental infections demonstrate that P. falciparum parasites with Pfs47 orthologs of P. praefalciparum or P. reichenowi are better at evading the immune system of the Asian malaria vector.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Rebeca Carballar-Lejarazu, Thai Binh Pham, Adam Kelsey, Taylor Tushar, Anthony A. James
Summary: Recent advances in mosquito genomics and genetic engineering technologies have created a need for efficient methods for detecting DNA sequence variations. ddPCR is a high-throughput method for analyzing NHEJ that provides quantitative estimates of sequence variations within populations. It can be implemented in field-site laboratories more easily and has a faster turn-around time for results compared to next-generation or Sanger sequencing, allowing for quicker and more complete analysis of genetic variation in wild populations during field trials of genetically-engineered organisms.
JOVE-JOURNAL OF VISUALIZED EXPERIMENTS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Adriano Nobre Arcos, Francisco Valente-Neto, Francisco Augusto da Silva Ferreira, Fabio Padilha Bolzan, Hillandia Brandao da Cunha, Wanderli Pedro Tadei, Robert M. Hughes, Fabio de Oliveira Roque
Summary: Urbanization processes in western Amazonia create artificial habitats promoting the colonization of malaria vectors. Forest cover has both direct and indirect effects on larval habitats and anopheline assemblages in different seasons. Artificial larval habitats, especially in the rainy season, provide ideal conditions for malaria vectors, with positive consequences for anopheline populations.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Paul Layie, Vivient Corneille Kamla, Jean Claude Kamgang, Yves Emvudu Wono
Summary: The study proposes an agent-based model to control malaria incidence by destroying aquatic habitats around houses. Results show that as the habitats are reduced, the incidence and prevalence of malaria tend towards 0.
Article
Parasitology
Werissaw Haileselassie, Endalew Zemene, Ming-Chieh Lee, Daibin Zhong, Guofa Zhou, Behailu Taye, Alemayehu Dagne, Wakgari Deressa, James W. Kazura, Guiyun Yan, Delenasaw Yewhalaw
Summary: The study found that areas close to irrigation sites had higher mosquito population density and higher sporozoite infection rates. Therefore, the irrigation scheme could increase the risk of malaria in the area.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Entomology
S. B. Vezenegho, J. Issaly, R. Carinci, P. Gaborit, R. Girod, Isabelle Dusfour, S. Briolant
Summary: This study developed a DNA-based identification technique to supplement traditional morphological identification methods for the discrimination of Anopheles mosquitoes collected in French Guiana. The PCR-RFLP assay proved to be a high throughput, fast, and cost-effective method for unambiguous discrimination of 15 Anopheles species.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Anastasia Accoti, Claudia Damiani, Emilia Nunzi, Alessia Cappelli, Gloria Iacomelli, Giulia Monacchia, Antonella Turco, Francesco D'Alo, Matthew J. Peirce, Guido Favia, Roberta Spaccapelo
Summary: The composition of the saliva microbiome of An. gambiae and An. stephensi mosquitoes, which are important vectors for malaria-causing parasites, was characterized using sequencing and MALDI-TOF. The presence of bacteria in mosquito saliva was documented, and it was found that Plasmodium infection affects the mosquito microbiota. This raises the possibility of mosquitoes as vectors of bacterial infection and the potential use of commensal mosquito bacteria for transmission-blocking strategies.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Dawit Hawaria, Solomon Kibret, Assalif Demissew, Arega Tsegaye, Denekew Bitew, Guiyun Yan, Delenasaw Yewhalaw
Summary: The study showed that the survival of female Anopheles gambiae s.l. was significantly enhanced in irrigated areas compared to non-irrigated areas. This could have important implications for the transmission of diseases such as malaria.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Hallelujah Getachew, Assalif Demissew, Ashenafi Abossie, Kassahun Habtamu, Xiaoming Wang, Daibin Zhong, Guofa Zhou, Ming-Chieh Lee, Elizabeth Hemming-Schroeder, Lauren Bradley, Teshome Degefa, Dawit Hawaria, Arega Tsegaye, James W.Kazura, Cristian Koepfli, Guiyun Yan, Delenasaw Yewhalaw
Summary: This study investigated the impact of different agroecosystems on the prevalence of malaria infection in Southwest Ethiopia. The results showed that irrigation had a significant impact on malaria infection. Additionally, both submicroscopic and microscopic infections, along with population movement, may hinder malaria control and elimination programs.
Editorial Material
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Saumya Gupta, Adam J. Blake, Jeffrey A. Riffell
Summary: A new study reveals a distinct pattern of preference for human-associated olfactory cues that informs the selective behavior of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Tebiban Chanyalew, Gadisa Natea, Desalegn Amenu, Delenasaw Yewhalaw, Eba Alemayehu Simma
Summary: This study investigated the mosquito fauna composition and insecticide resistance status of Anopheles gambiae s.l. in the Itang special district of Gambella, southwestern Ethiopia. The results showed that the populations of An. gambiae s.l. were resistant to alpha-cypermethrin and deltamethrin, but susceptible to bendiocarb, pirimiphos-methyl, and propoxur. Furthermore, a high frequency of the West African kdr (L1014F) mutation was detected.
Article
Parasitology
Andrea Miranda Paez, Kayleigh Chalkowski, Sarah Zohdy, Janna R. Willoughby
Summary: This article provides an overview of avian malaria, including its transmission, impact on ecosystems, and management strategies for vulnerable bird populations.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Johanna Ripp, Xanthoula Smyrnakou, Marie-Therese Neuhoff, Franziska Hentzschel, Friedrich Frischknecht
Summary: Malaria-causing parasites rely on an actin-myosin-based motor for their invasion and migration, and the phosphorylation status plays a crucial role in regulating their motility and force generation during transmission.
Article
Parasitology
Tilahun Adugna, Delensaw Yewhelew, Emana Getu
Summary: The research in Bure district, Ethiopia found that Anopheles mosquitoes had mixed blood feeds, with a preference for human blood for egg development. This suggests the need to strengthen zooprophylaxis as a means of vector control to reduce malaria transmission.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kevin O. Ochwedo, Shirley A. Onyango, Collince J. Omondi, Pauline W. Orondo, Benyl M. Ondeto, Ming-Chieh Lee, Harrysone E. Atieli, Sidney O. Ogolla, Andrew K. Githeko, Antony C. A. Otieno, Wolfgang R. Mukabana, Guiyun Yan, Daibin Zhong, James W. Kazura
Summary: This study examines the genetic diversity, selection signatures, and drivers of Pfs25 polymorphisms in parasite populations in western Kenya. The results suggest that purifying selection and inbreeding are the drivers of the observed variation in Pfs25. Overall, a Pfs25 antigen-based vaccine is unlikely to be affected by antigenic variations.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Wilfred Ouma Otambo, Collince J. Omondi, Kevin O. Ochwedo, Patrick O. Onyango, Harrysone Atieli, Ming-Chieh Lee, Chloe Wang, Guofa Zhou, Andrew K. Githeko, John Githure, Collins Ouma, Guiyun Yan, James Kazura
Summary: Topographic features and seasonality are major correlates of submicroscopic malaria infection in the Lake Victoria area of western Kenya. Residents of lakeshore zones, males, school-aged children, and those living in mud houses have increased risk of submicroscopic malaria infection.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Kevin O. Ochwedo, Fredrick O. Ariri, Wilfred O. Otambo, Edwin O. Magomere, Isaiah Debrah, Shirley A. Onyango, Pauline W. Orondo, Harrysone E. Atieli, Sidney O. Ogolla, Antony C. A. Otieno, Wolfgang R. Mukabana, Andrew K. Githeko, Ming-Chieh Lee, Guiyun Yan, Daibin Zhong, James W. Kazura
Summary: This study evaluated the genetic polymorphism and temporal stability of two transmission-blocking vaccine candidates in Plasmodium falciparum parasites from western Kenya. The results showed that these candidates have low nucleotide diversity, a small number of variants, and high nucleotide conservation index. Continued monitoring of sequence modifications in these domains is necessary when designing vaccines that include Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 antigens.
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Pauline Winnie Orondo, Xiaoming Wang, Ming-Chieh Lee, Steven G. Nyanjom, Harrysone Atieli, Benyl M. Ondeto, Kevin O. Ochwedo, Collince J. Omondi, Wilfred Ouma Otambo, Guofa Zhou, Daibin Zhong, Andrew K. Githeko, James W. Kazura, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study examined the impact of irrigation on the ecology of malaria vectors in a semi-arid region of western Kenya. The results showed that irrigation increased habitat availability and stability, leading to an increase in mosquito reproduction and potential risk of malaria transmission.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Brook Jeang, Ming-Chieh Lee, Paula Embury, Delenasaw Yewhalaw, David Narum, Christopher King, Wai-Hong Tham, James Kazura, Guiyun Yan, Arlene Dent
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate a panel of 10 serological markers as a proxy for malaria exposure and determine the risk factors of seropositivity. The findings showed that seroprevalence and antibody levels to specific Plasmodium antigens can be used to identify high-risk groups and geographical areas where targeted interventions should be implemented.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND HYGIENE
(2023)
Article
Entomology
Harrysone E. Atieli, Guofa Zhou, Daibin Zhong, Xiaoming Wang, Ming-chieh Lee, Alpha S. Yaro, Moussa Diallo, John Githure, James Kazura, Tovi Lehmann, Guiyun Yan
Summary: Studies revealed that mosquitoes and other insects in the Lake Victoria basin region of Kenya exhibit similar high-altitude, long-distance migration behavior as they do in the malaria endemic area of the Sahel region in West Africa. This suggests that windborne dispersal of mosquito vectors of malaria and other diseases occurs on a broad scale in sub-Saharan Africa.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Wilfred Ouma Otambo, Kevin O. Ochwedo, Collince J. Omondi, Ming-Chieh Lee, Chloe Wang, Harrysone Atieli, Andew K. Githeko, Guofa Zhou, James Kazura, John Githure, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study evaluated the effectiveness of community health volunteers in actively detecting and managing malaria in western Kenya. The results showed that the years of experience, education level, and age of the volunteers significantly influenced their service quality. Understanding the qualifications of volunteers can help guide the design of effective interventions and improve the quality of healthcare services in communities.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Dawit Hawaria, Solomon Kibret
Summary: Irrigation has a significant impact on malaria incidence and vector mosquito abundance in southern Ethiopia, with higher malaria incidence, adult mosquito density, and mosquito-breeding habitat in irrigated villages compared to non-irrigated villages.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Pauline Winnie Orondo, Guofa Zhou, Kevin O. Ochwedo, Xiaoming Wang, Benyl M. Ondeto, Ming-Chieh Lee, Steven G. Nyanjom, Harrysone Atieli, Andrew K. Githeko, James W. Kazura, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study investigated the survivorship of Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles funestus larvae and habitat productivity in four permanent habitat types in Homa Bay county, western Kenya. The results showed that fish were the most efficient predators, reducing the larval population by 75.8%. The survivorship of mosquito larvae varied by developmental stages, with the highest mortality rate observed in larval stages II and III.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Dawit Hawaria, Solomon Kibret, Daibin Zhong, Ming-Chieh Lee, Kidane Lelisa, Belayneh Bekele, Muntasha Birhanu, Mathe Mengesha, Hiwot Solomon, Delenesaw Yewhalaw, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study confirmed the invasion of An. stephensi in southern Ethiopia by identifying larvae and adult mosquitoes in the area. The presence of both stages of this mosquito species raises concerns about its potential impact on local malaria transmission and the need for further investigation on its ecology, behavior, and role in disease transmission.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Hallelujah Getachew, Assalif Demissew, Ashenafi Abossie, Kassahun Habtamu, Xiaoming Wang, Daibin Zhong, Guofa Zhou, Ming-Chieh Lee, Elizabeth Hemming-Schroeder, Lauren Bradley, Teshome Degefa, Dawit Hawaria, Arega Tsegaye, James W.Kazura, Cristian Koepfli, Guiyun Yan, Delenasaw Yewhalaw
Summary: This study investigated the impact of different agroecosystems on the prevalence of malaria infection in Southwest Ethiopia. The results showed that irrigation had a significant impact on malaria infection. Additionally, both submicroscopic and microscopic infections, along with population movement, may hinder malaria control and elimination programs.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Arega Tsegaye, Assalif Demissew, Dawit Hawaria, Ashenafi Abossie, Hallelujah Getachew, Kassahun Habtamu, Teshome Degefa, Xiaoming Wang, Ming-Chieh Lee, Guofa Zhou, Delenasaw Yewhalaw, Guiyun Yan
Summary: This study investigated the seasonality and abundance of mosquito larval habitats in irrigated sugar cane plantations in Ethiopia. The results showed that different larval habitats had varying productivity in different seasons, and physico-chemical features and the distance between habitats and households were related to larval production. These findings highlight the importance of considering the seasonality of larval habitats and the impact of pesticide application on larval source management in vector control strategies.