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Nawa M, Mupeyo-Mudala C, Banda-Tembo S, Adetokunboh O. The effects of modern housing on malaria transmission in different endemic zones: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Malar J 2024; 23:235. [PMID: 39113048 PMCID: PMC11308589 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-05059-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modern housing has been shown to reduce the risk of malaria infections compared to traditional houses; however, it is unclear if the effects differ in different malaria transmission settings. This study evaluated the effects of modern housing on malaria among different endemic areas. METHODS Electronic databases, clinical trial registries and grey literature were searched for randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional surveys on housing done between 1987 and 2022. Forest plots were done, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessments, Development and Evaluation Framework. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were included; thirteen were cross-sectional, four were case-control and four were cohort studies. Cohort studies showed an adjusted risk ratio of 0.68 (95% CI 0.48-0.96), and cross-sectional studies indicated an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 0.79 (95%CI 0.75-0.83). By endemic transmission regions, the adjusted odds ratio in the high endemic settings was 0.80 (95%CI 0.76-085); in the moderate transmission regions, aOR = 0.76 (95%CI 0.67-0.85) and in the low transmission settings, aOR = 0.67 (95%CI 0.48-0.85). CONCLUSIONS The evidence from observational studies suggests that there are no differences in the protective effects of modern houses compared to traditional houses on malaria by endemicity level. This implies that good quality modern housing protects against malaria regardless of the malaria transmission settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukumbuta Nawa
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia.
| | - Catherine Mupeyo-Mudala
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Sylvia Banda-Tembo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Olatunji Adetokunboh
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
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Hardy A. New directions for malaria vector control using geography and geospatial analysis. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2024; 125:1-52. [PMID: 39095110 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
As we strive towards the ambitious goal of malaria elimination, we must embrace integrated strategies and interventions. Like many diseases, malaria is heterogeneously distributed. This inherent spatial component means that geography and geospatial data is likely to have an important role in malaria control strategies. For instance, focussing interventions in areas where malaria risk is highest is likely to provide more cost-effective malaria control programmes. Equally, many malaria vector control strategies, particularly interventions like larval source management, would benefit from accurate maps of malaria vector habitats - sources of water that are used for malarial mosquito oviposition and larval development. In many landscapes, particularly in rural areas, the formation and persistence of these habitats is controlled by geographical factors, notably those related to hydrology. This is especially true for malaria vector species like Anopheles funestsus that show a preference for more permanent, often naturally occurring water sources like small rivers and spring-fed ponds. Previous work has embraced geographical concepts, techniques, and geospatial data for studying malaria risk and vector habitats. But there is much to be learnt if we are to fully exploit what the broader geographical discipline can offer in terms of operational malaria control, particularly in the face of a changing climate. This chapter outlines potential new directions related to several geographical concepts, data sources and analytical approaches, including terrain analysis, satellite imagery, drone technology and field-based observations. These directions are discussed within the context of designing new protocols and procedures that could be readily deployed within malaria control programmes, particularly those within sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular focus on experiences in the Kilombero Valley and the Zanzibar Archipelago, United Republic of Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Hardy
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom.
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Olawade DB, Wada OZ, Ezeagu CN, Aderinto N, Balogun MA, Asaolu FT, David-Olawade AC. Malaria vaccination in Africa: A mini-review of challenges and opportunities. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38565. [PMID: 38875411 PMCID: PMC11175883 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains an endemic public health concern in Africa, significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality rates. The inadequacies of traditional prevention measures, like integrated vector management and antimalarial drugs, have spurred efforts to strengthen the development and deployment of malaria vaccines. In addition to existing interventions like insecticide-treated bed nets and artemisinin-based combination therapies, malaria vaccine introduction and implementation in Africa could drastically reduce the disease burden and hasten steps toward malaria elimination. The malaria vaccine rollout is imminent as optimistic results from final clinical trials are anticipated. Thus, determining potential hurdles to malaria vaccine delivery and uptake in malaria-endemic regions of sub-Saharan Africa will enhance decisions and policymakers' preparedness to facilitate efficient and equitable vaccine delivery. A multisectoral approach is recommended to increase funding and resources, active community engagement and participation, and the involvement of healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Olawade
- Department of Allied and Public Health, School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, University of East London, London, UK
| | - Ojima Z. Wada
- Division of Sustainable Development, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Chiamaka Norah Ezeagu
- Department of Public Health, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Nicholas Aderinto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
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Msellemu D, Tanner M, Yadav R, Moore SJ. Occupational exposure to malaria, leishmaniasis and arbovirus vectors in endemic regions: A systematic review. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2024; 6:100185. [PMID: 39027087 PMCID: PMC11252614 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2024.100185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases, including dengue, leishmaniasis and malaria, may be more common among individuals whose occupations or behaviours bring them into frequent contact with these disease vectors outside of their homes. A systematic review was conducted to ascertain at-risk occupations and situations that put individuals at increased risk of exposure to these disease vectors in endemic regions and identify the most suitable interventions for each exposure. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines on articles published between 1945 and October 2021, searched in 16 online databases. The primary outcome was incidence or prevalence of dengue, leishmaniasis or malaria. The review excluded ecological and qualitative studies, abstracts only, letters, commentaries, reviews, and studies of laboratory-acquired infections. Studies were appraised, data extracted, and a descriptive analysis conducted. Bite interventions for each risk group were assessed. A total of 1170 articles were screened and 99 included. Malaria, leishmaniasis and dengue were presented in 47, 41 and 24 articles, respectively; some articles presented multiple conditions. The most represented populations were soldiers, 38% (43 of 112 studies); refugees and travellers, 15% (17) each; migrant workers, 12.5% (14); miners, 9% (10); farmers, 5% (6); rubber tappers and missionaries, 1.8% (2) each; and forest workers, 0.9% (1). Risk of exposure was categorised into round-the-clock or specific times of day/night dependent on occupation. Exposure to these vectors presents a critical and understudied concern for outdoor workers and mobile populations. When devising interventions to provide round-the-clock vector bite protection, two populations are considered. First, mobile populations, characterized by their high mobility, may find potential benefits in insecticide-treated clothing, though more research and optimization are essential. Treated clothing offers personal vector protection and holds promise for economically disadvantaged individuals, especially when enabling them to self-treat their clothing to repel vectors. Secondly, semi-permanent and permanent settlement populations can receive a combination of interventions that offer both personal and community protection, including spatial repellents, suitable for extended stays. Existing research is heavily biased towards tourism and the military, diverting attention and resources from vulnerable populations where these interventions are most required like refugee populations as well as those residing in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Msellemu
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Tanzania
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Tanner
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rajpal Yadav
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
- Academy of Public Health Entomology, Udaipur, 313 002, India
| | - Sarah J. Moore
- Vector Control Product Testing Unit, Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences Department, Ifakara Health Institute, Tanzania
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
- The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), P.O. Box 447, Tengeru, Arusha, Tanzania
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Wang Y, Chitnis N, Fairbanks EL. Optimizing malaria vector control in the Greater Mekong Subregion: a systematic review and mathematical modelling study to identify desirable intervention characteristics. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:162. [PMID: 38553759 PMCID: PMC10981350 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06234-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), new vector-control tools are needed to target mosquitoes that bite outside during the daytime and night-time to advance malaria elimination. METHODS We conducted systematic literature searches to generate a bionomic dataset of the main malaria vectors in the GMS, including human blood index (HBI), parity proportion, sac proportion (proportion with uncontracted ovary sacs, indicating the amount of time until they returned to host seeking after oviposition) and the resting period duration. We then performed global sensitivity analyses to assess the influence of bionomics and intervention characteristics on vectorial capacity. RESULTS Our review showed that Anopheles minimus, An. sinensis, An. maculatus and An. sundaicus display opportunistic blood-feeding behaviour, while An. dirus is more anthropophilic. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that environmental, climatic and sampling factors influence the proportion of parous mosquitoes, and resting duration varies seasonally. Sensitivity analysis highlighted HBI and parity proportion as the most influential bionomic parameters, followed by resting duration. Killing before feeding is always a desirable characteristic across all settings in the GMS. Disarming is also a desirable characteristic in settings with a low HBI. Repelling is only an effective strategy in settings with a low HBI and low parity proportion. Killing after feeding is only a desirable characteristic if the HBI and parity proportions in the setting are high. CONCLUSIONS Although in general adopting tools that kill before feeding would have the largest community-level effect on reducing outdoor transmission, other modes of action can be effective. Current tools in development which target outdoor biting mosquitoes should be implemented in different settings dependent on their characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqian Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwill, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4001, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nakul Chitnis
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwill, 4123, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4001, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Emma L Fairbanks
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, Allschwill, 4123, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, 4001, Basel, Switzerland.
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Govindaraju G, Rajavelu A. Reading the epitranscriptome of the human malaria parasite. Biomed J 2024:100703. [PMID: 38316392 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2024.100703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic machinery has emerged as a central player in gene regulation and chromatin organization in Plasmodium spp. Epigenetic modifications on histones and their role in antigenic variation in P. falciparum are widely studied. Recent discoveries on nucleic acid methylome are exciting and provide a new dimension to the apicomplexan protozoan parasite's gene regulatory process. Reports have confirmed that N6-methyl adenosine (m6A) methylation plays a crucial role in the translational plasticity of the human malaria parasite during its development in RBC. The YTH domain (YT521-B Homology) protein in P. falciparum binds to m6A epitranscriptome modifications on the mRNA and regulates protein translation. The binding of the PfYTH domain protein to the m6A-modified mRNA is mediated through a binding pocket formed by aromatic amino acids. The P. falciparum genome encodes two members of YTH domain proteins, i.e., YTH1 and YTH2, and both have distinct roles in dictating the epitranscriptome in human malaria parasites. This review highlights recent advancements in the functions and mechanisms of YTH domain protein's role in translational plasticity in the various developmental stages of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Govindaraju
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat & Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Arumugam Rajavelu
- Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat & Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai, India.
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Carnaghi M, Mandelli F, Feugère L, Joiner J, Young S, Belmain SR, Hopkins RJ, Hawkes FM. Visual and thermal stimuli modulate mosquito-host contact with implications for improving malaria vector control tools. iScience 2024; 27:108578. [PMID: 38155768 PMCID: PMC10753043 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria prevention relies on mosquito control interventions that use insecticides and exploit mosquito behavior. The rise of insecticide resistance and changing transmission dynamics urgently demand vector control innovation. To identify behavioral traits that could be incorporated into such tools, we investigated the flight and landing response of Anopheles coluzzii to human-like host cues. We show that landing rate is directly proportional to the surface area of thermal stimulus, whereas close-range orientation is modulated by both thermal and visual inputs. We modeled anopheline eye optics to theorize the distance at which visual targets can be detected under a range of conditions, and experimentally established mosquito preference for landing on larger targets, although landing density is greater on small targets. Target orientation does not affect landing rate; however, vertical targets can be resolved at greater distance than horizontal targets of the same size. Mosquito traps for vector control could be significantly enhanced by incorporating these features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Carnaghi
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
- School of Science, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | | | - Lionel Feugère
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Jillian Joiner
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Stephen Young
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Steven R. Belmain
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Richard J. Hopkins
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Frances M. Hawkes
- Department of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich at Medway, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
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Acharya A, Naskar A, Chaudhury A, Sardar AA, Samanta A, Guha SK, Maji AK, Bera DK, Saha P. Prevalence of polymorphisms in marker genes associated with antimalarial drug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum following 10 years of artemisinin-based combination therapy implementation in urban Kolkata. Trop Parasitol 2024; 14:23-29. [PMID: 38444799 PMCID: PMC10911185 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_43_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Context Resistance to antimalarial drugs is one of the major challenges for malaria elimination. In India, artemisinin combination therapy (artesunate-sulfadoxin pyrimethamine) was introduced in place of chloroquine (CQ) for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in 2010. Periodical monitoring of polymorphisms in antimalarial drug resistance marker genes will be useful for assessing drug pressure, mapping and monitoring of drug resistance status; and will be helpful for searching alternative treatments. Objectives This study was conducted to study the polymorphisms in antimalarial drug resistance marker genes among clinical Plasmodium falciparum isolates collected from Kolkata after 10 years of artemisinin-based combination therapie (ACT) implementation. Materials and Methods Blood samples were collected from P. falciparum mono-infected patients and polymorphisms in P. falciparum CQ resistance transporter (pfcrt), P. falciparum multidrug resistance (pfmdr-1), P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (pfdhfr), P. falciparum dihydropteroate synthetase (pfdhps), pfATPase6 and pfK-13 propeller genes were analysed by polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing. Results In pfcrt gene, C72S, and K76T mutation was recorded in 100% isolates and no mutations was detected in any of the targeted codons of pfmdr-1 gene. A double mutant pfcrt haplotype SVMNT and wildtype haplotype NYD in pfmdr-1 were prevalent in 100% of study isolates. Triple mutant pfdhfr-pfdhps haplotype ANRNI-SGKAA was recorded. No polymorphism in pfK13 gene was documented in any of the isolates. Conclusions Observed wild codon N86 along with Y184 and D1246 of pfmdr-1 gene might be an indication of the reappearance of CQ sensitivity. The absence of quadruple and quintuple haplotypes in pfdhfr-pfdhps gene along with the wild haplotype of pfK13 is evidence of ACT effectivity. Hence, similar studies with large sample size are highly suggested for monitoring the drug resistance status of P. falciparum.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arindam Naskar
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Abhijit Chaudhury
- Department of Microbiology, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences and Sri Padmavathi Medical College (Women), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Pabitra Saha
- Department of Microbiology, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Department of Zoology, P. R. Thakur Government College, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India
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Nunu WN, Ndirangu J, Tsoka-Gwegweni J. Effects of COVID-19 on malaria elimination initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e076140. [PMID: 37821137 PMCID: PMC10582949 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted health systems, resulting in varied outcomes of different variables in terms of health. Due to the nature of the causative organism that is spread mainly in the air, the disease rapidly spread to numerous countries, leading to a series of mitigation measures being proposed and implemented, including but not limited to travel restrictions, decongesting and in some instances closure of workplaces and schools and banning of social gatherings. This could have negatively impacted implementing strategies meant to ensure the effective management of malaria, hoping to eliminate it in different countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This review seeks to explore the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on malaria elimination initiatives in SSA. METHODS AND ANALYSIS An exploratory scoping review will be conducted on literature (searched using keywords and a search strategy) sources published in English on Web of Science, Cochrane Library, PUBMED, Dimensions, ProQuest, Scopus and African Journals Online. These would then be imported to Rayyan Software for screening for possible inclusion. The JBI Guidelines on Reviews, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist would guide the data collection, extraction and analysis from the accessed literature. Furthermore, charting, trends and developing themes would ensure the findings are presented comprehensively and yet understandable. The data collection and analysis process leading to the final submission of a review paper to a journal will be conducted from September 2023 to February 2024. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION An application for ethical approval was lodged with the Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa. This ethics committee granted ethics clearance (ethics number: UFS-HSD2022/1754). Results will be communicated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations, conferences, workshops and other means and forums to reach the critical stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfred Njabulo Nunu
- Division of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
- Office of the Executive Dean, Faculty of Environmental Science, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - James Ndirangu
- Division of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Joyce Tsoka-Gwegweni
- Division of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
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Evbuomwan IO, Stephen Adeyemi O, Oluba OM. Indigenous medicinal plants used in folk medicine for malaria treatment in Kwara State, Nigeria: an ethnobotanical study. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:324. [PMID: 37716985 PMCID: PMC10504731 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04131-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folk medicine is crucial to healthcare delivery in the underdeveloped countries. It is frequently used as a primary treatment option or as a complementary therapy for malaria. Malaria is a deadly disease which greatly threatens global public health, claiming incredible number of lives yearly. The study was aimed at documenting the medicinal plants used for malaria treatment in folk medicine in Kwara State, Nigeria. METHODS Ethnobotanical information was collected from selected consenting registered traditional medicine practitioners (TMPs) through oral face-to-face interviews using in-depth, semi-structured interview guide. The ethnobotanical data were analysed, and descriptive statistical methods were used to compile them. RESULTS Sixty-two indigenous medicinal plants, including 13 new plants, used for malaria treatment were identified in this study. The TMPs preferred decoction in aqueous solvent (34%) and steeping in decaffeinated soft drink (19%) for herbal preparations. Oral administration (74%) was the main route of administration, while leaves (40%) and stem barks (32%) were the most dominant plant parts used in herbal preparations. The most cited families were Fabaceae (15%) and Rutaceae (6%), while Mangifera indica (77.14%), Enantia chlorantha (65.71%), Alstonia boonei (57.14%) followed by Cymbopogon citratus (54.29%) were the most used plants. Besides, the antimalarial activities of many of the plants recorded and their isolated phytocompounds have been demonstrated. Furthermore, the conservation status of 4 identified plants were Vulnerable. CONCLUSION The study showed strong ethnobotanical knowledge shared by the TMPs in the State and provides preliminary information that could be explored for the discovery of more potent antimalarial compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikponmwosa Owen Evbuomwan
- SDG #03 Group - Good Health and Well-being, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
- Department of Microbiology, Cellular Parasitology Unit, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
| | - Oluyomi Stephen Adeyemi
- SDG #03 Group - Good Health and Well-being, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 232-3 Yomogida, Naruko-Onsen, Osaki, Miyagi, 989-6711, Japan.
| | - Olarewaju Michael Oluba
- SDG #03 Group - Good Health and Well-being, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, Ipetu Road, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran, 251101, Nigeria.
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Sissoko B, Rafiq MY, Wang JR, Sissoko NDN. Social representations of malaria in a southern malian community: an ethnographic qualitative study. Malar J 2022; 21:276. [PMID: 36175914 PMCID: PMC9523929 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04298-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria is one of the prime reasons for medical consultation and the major cause of morbidity and mortality in Mali. To assess and understand the dynamics of social representations of malaria, the anthropological research was conducted in the Wayerema II neighbourhood of the health district of Sikasso, southern Mali. Methods This was an ethnographic study conducted qualitatively in 2011 and 2016 through informal conversations, 70 semi-structured interviews, and participant observations with key actors. The observations, conversations, and interviews investigated local people’s perceptions and knowledge about malaria, and how and to what extent the cultural and popular representations of the disease can have an impact on therapeutic routes. Results Mosquitoes are the principal agent of the transmission of malaria. However, the ubiquitous yet casually-claimed aetiological agents, causative, nosographic entities differ from—although sometimes integrated into—the biomedical dimension. For example, some communities perceive Kono, a complicated and pernicious form of malaria that often occurs among children, to originate from a supernatural force. “Bird disease” is another term used for Kono in Mali and other West African countries. Thus, overall, Kono is defined through the entanglements with cultural factors, namely the idiosyncratic habits, customs, and beliefs of the population of Wayerema II neighbourhood in the health district of Sikasso, Southern Mali. Wayerema II residents particularly tend to link therapeutic recourse amongst the afflicted not only to biomedical models but to sociocultural and popular perceptions and representations of malaria. Conclusion In the findings, self-medication through both traditional and modern medical techniques was the most frequent therapeutic modality. Hence, the integration of local popular knowledge with the biomedical register can contribute to a comprehensive understanding of social representations and perceptions of malaria, and qualitative improvements in the malaria control programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bourema Sissoko
- Institute of Anthropology, School of Social Development, East China Normal University, Minhang District, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200241, China. .,Faculty of Foreign Languages, Southwest Forestry University, 296 Bailongsi, Kunming, Yunnan, 650224, China.
| | - Mohamed Yunus Rafiq
- Department of Social Sciences, New York University Shanghai, 1555 Century Avenue, Pudong New District, Shanghai, 200122, China
| | - Jiaqi Rosemary Wang
- Department of Social Sciences, New York University Shanghai, 1555 Century Avenue, Pudong New District, Shanghai, 200122, China
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Inferring the epidemiological benefit of indoor vector control interventions against malaria from mosquito data. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3862. [PMID: 35790746 PMCID: PMC9256631 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30700-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The cause of malaria transmission has been known for over a century but it is still unclear whether entomological measures are sufficiently reliable to inform policy decisions in human health. Decision-making on the effectiveness of new insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) and the indoor residual spraying of insecticide (IRS) have been based on epidemiological data, typically collected in cluster-randomised control trials. The number of these trials that can be conducted is limited. Here we use a systematic review to highlight that efficacy estimates of the same intervention may vary substantially between trials. Analyses indicate that mosquito data collected in experimental hut trials can be used to parameterize mechanistic models for Plasmodium falciparum malaria and reliably predict the epidemiological efficacy of quick-acting, neuro-acting ITNs and IRS. Results suggest that for certain types of ITNs and IRS using this framework instead of clinical endpoints could support policy and expedite the widespread use of novel technologies. Estimating the effectiveness of malaria vector control interventions has typically relied on resource-intensive cluster randomised trials. Here, the authors estimate changes in malaria prevalence using entomological data from experimental hut trials, which may provide an alternative route to approval of interventions in some situations.
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Doolan DL. Malaria research in Australia: looking through the lens of the past towards the future. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1255-1263. [PMID: 34780720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Malaria remains a global health priority, with substantial resources devoted to control and intervention since the causative parasite was first identified in 1880. Major advances have been made in discovery and translational research activities aimed at prevention, treatment and control. Laboratory-based, clinical, and field-based studies have complemented public health approaches. Australian scientists have played important roles, developing and applying innovative approaches, novel research tools and cutting-edge technologies in animal and human models of disease, as well as in disease-endemic settings. This article will provide an insight into 50 years of Australian efforts to discover mechanisms and targets of immunity and pathogenesis; develop new diagnostics, drugs, vaccines, and therapeutics; and assess new public health interventions and control measures in malaria-endemic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise L Doolan
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns QLD 4878, Australia.
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