[The cases of tracing the source of patients infected with Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 based on wastewater-based epidemiology in Shenzhen]

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is an emerging discipline, which has been applied to drug abuse tracking and infectious disease pathogen surveillance. During the COVID-19 epidemic, WBE has been applied to monitor the epidemic trend and SARS-CoV-2 variants etc. In order to detect hidden COVID-19 cases and prevent transmission in the community, wastewater surveillance system for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 RNA was developed in Shenzhen. The sewage sampling sites were set up in key places such as the port areas, urban villages and residential communities of Futian, Nanshan, Luohu and Yantian districts. From July 26 to November 30, 2022, a total of 369 sewage sampling sites were set up, covering 1.93 million people. Continuous sampling was carried out for 3 hours in the peak period of water use every day. Sewage virus enrichment and SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid detection were carried out by polyethylene glycol precipitation method and RT-qPCR, and a positive water sample disposal process was molded. This article aims to introduce the case of source tracing of COVID-19 infected patients based on urban sewage in Shenzhen. The sewage monitoring of Honghu water treatment plant in Luohu District played an early warning role, and the source of infection was traced. In the disposal of positive water samples in Futian South Road, Futian District, the important experience of monitoring point layout was obtained. In the sewage monitoring of Nanshan village, Nanshan District, the existence of occult infection was revealed. Sharing the experience of tracing the source of COVID-19 patients to avoid the spread of COVID-19 in the community based on wastewater surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Shenzhen, and summarizing the advantages and application prospects of sewage surveillance can provide new ideas for monitoring emerging or re-emerging pathogens that are known to exhibit gastrointestinal excretion in the future.

Unequivocal Identification of Spin-Triplet and Spin-Singlet Superconductors with Upper Critical Field and Flux Quantization

Spin-triplet superconductors play central roles in Majorana physics and quantum computing but are difficult to identify. We show the methods of kink-point upper critical field and flux quantization in superconducting rings can unequivocally identify spin-singlet, spin-triplet in centrosymmetric superconductors, and singlet-triplet admixture in noncentrosymmetric superconductors, as realized in γ-BiPd, β-Bi_{2}Pd, and α-BiPd, respectively. Our findings are essential for identifying triplet superconductors and exploring their quantum properties.

Evaluation of insecticide resistance among Malaysian Aedes albopictus Skuse larvae based on revised diagnostic doses of larvicides

The susceptibility levels of Malaysian Aedes albopictus larvae sampled from several agricultural, fogging-free residential and dengue prone residential areas against different larvicides were evaluated using revised diagnostic doses derived from the 2xLC99 values of the reference strain. Upon 24-hour recovery period of WHO larval bioassay, incipient resistance was observed among Ae. albopictus larvae from rubber estates against fenitrothion (96.67% mortality) and permethin (97.00% mortality) while Ae. albopictus larvae from rice cultivation areas were moderately resistant to fenthion (94.33% mortality). Aedes albopictus larvae from dengue prone residential areas developed moderate to high resistance against dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), fenitrothion, fenthion, propoxur and permethrin (79.67% - 97.33% mortality). Moderate to high resistance were also demonstrated among all populations of Ae. albopictus larvae against temephos and chlorpyrifos (63.00% - 97.67% mortality). Except for Ae. albopictus larvae from oil palm plantations, all Ae. albopictus larval populations were also highly resistant to bendiocarb (65.67% - 89.67% mortality). Cross resistance between larvicides from similar and different insecticide classes were also revealed in this study. The use of revised diagnostic doses established from the local reference strain could reduce the possibility of underestimation or overestimation of the insecticide susceptibility status of field strain populations.

[A prospective study of position selection combined with autologous blood intrathoracic infusion in the treatment of postoperative persistent air leakage with an unexpanded lung]

We prospectively studied 17 patients with spontaneous pneumothorax or giant emphysematous bulla at Rizhao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from October 2020 to March 2022. All patients underwent thoracoscopic interventional therapy, had experienced continued air leakage for 3 days with closed thoracic drainage postoperatively, had an unexpanded lung on CT, and/or failed to intervention with position selection combined with intra-pleural thrombin injection(referred to as "position plus1.0"). They were all treated with position selection combined with autologous blood (100 ml) and thrombin (5 000 U) intra-pleural injection(referred to as "position plus 2.0").The success rate of the "position plus 2.0" intervention was 16/17, and the recurrence rate was 3/17. There were four cases of fever, four cases of pleural effusion, one case of empyema, and no other adverse reactions. This study has shown that the "position plus 2.0" intervention is safe, effective, and simple for patient with persistent air leakage failed to intervention with"position plus 1.0" after thoracoscopic treatment of pulmonary and pleural diseases related to bulla.

Validity Assessment of an Automated Brain Morphometry Tool for Patients with De Novo Memory Symptoms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Automated volumetric analysis of structural MR imaging allows quantitative assessment of brain atrophy in neurodegenerative disorders. We compared the brain segmentation performance of the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging software against an in-house FreeSurfer 7.1.1/Individual Longitudinal Participant pipeline.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T1-weighted images of 45 participants with de novo memory symptoms were selected from the OASIS-4 database and analyzed through the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool and the FreeSurfer 7.1.1/Individual Longitudinal Participant pipeline. Correlation, agreement, and consistency between the 2 tools were compared among the absolute, normalized, and standardized volumes. Final reports generated by each tool were used to compare the rates of detection of abnormality and the compatibility of radiologic impressions made using each tool, compared with the clinical diagnoses.

RESULTS

We observed strong correlation, moderate consistency, and poor agreement between absolute volumes of the main cortical lobes and subcortical structures measured by the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool compared with FreeSurfer. The strength of the correlations increased after normalizing the measurements to the total intracranial volume. Standardized measurements differed significantly between the 2 tools, likely owing to differences in the normative data sets used to calibrate each tool. When considering the FreeSurfer 7.1.1/Individual Longitudinal Participant pipeline as a reference standard, the AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool had a specificity of 90.6%-100% and a sensitivity of 64.3%-100% in detecting volumetric abnormalities. There was no difference between the rate of compatibility of radiologic and clinical impressions when using the 2 tools.

CONCLUSIONS

The AI-Rad Companion brain MR imaging tool reliably detects atrophy in cortical and subcortical regions implicated in the differential diagnosis of dementia.

Statewide Efficacy Assessment of Insect Growth Regulators Against Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Sabah, Malaysia: An Alternative Control Strategy?

The efficacy of three groups of insect growth regulators, namely juvenile hormone mimics (methoprene and pyriproxyfen), chitin synthesis inhibitors (diflubenzuron and novaluron), and molting disruptor (cyromazine) was evaluated for the first time, against Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae from 14 districts in Sabah, Malaysia. The results showed that all field populations of Ae. albopictus were susceptible towards methoprene, pyriproxyfen, diflubenzuron, novaluron, and cyromazine, with resistance ratio values ranging from 0.50-0.90, 0.60-1.00, 0.67-1.17, 0.71-1.29, and 0.74-1.07, respectively. Overall, the efficacy assessment of insect growth regulators in this study showed promising outcomes and they could be further explored as an alternative to conventional insecticides.

Bioefficacy of mosquito mat vaporizers and associated metabolic detoxication mechanisms in Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) in Selangor, Malaysia: A statewide assessment

This study aims to examine the efficacy of mosquito mat vaporizers on Aedes aegypti and their associated metabolic detoxication mechanisms. For this purpose, Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) was collected from nine districts in Selangor, Malaysia and tested with mosquito vaporizing mat bioassays. The same populations were also subjected to biochemical assays to investigate activities of detoxifying enzymes, namely non-specific esterase (EST), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and mixed function oxidase (MFO). The efficacy of Ae. aegypti on the active ingredients tested in decreasing order were d- allethrin > dimefluthrin > prallethrin with PBO > prallethrin. The results further indicated significant enhancement mean levels of EST, GST and MFO in pyrethroid-resistant populations. The mortality rate of Ae. aegypti in response to pyrethroid active ingredients was associated with MFO activity, suggesting it is an important detoxification enzyme for the populations tested. In view of the presence of resistance against household insecticide products, pyrethroid efficacy on Ae. aegypti populations needs to be monitored closely to ensure the implementation of an effective vector control program in Malaysia.

[Efficacy and safety of position selection combined with intra-pleural thrombin injection in the treatment of postoperative persistent air leakage in bullous pulmonary-pleural diseases]

Objective: To explore the efficacy and safety of position selection in combination with intra-pleural thrombin injection in the treatment of persistent air leakage (PAL) after medical thoracoscopic treatment of bullous pulmonary-pleural diseases (e.g. spontaneous pneumothorax or giant emphysematous bulla). Methods: This was a prospective study conducted in Rizhao Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from August 2018 to November 2020. Twenty patients(19 males,1 female) with a mean age of (62.3±8.1) years met the diagnostic criteria for PAL which was defined as the air leak persisted more than 3 days despite of the closed thoracic drainage after medical thoracoscopic treatment of bullous pulmonary-pleural diseases.They received the following treatment procedures (referred to as "position plus"):①Pleural cavity injection (50% glucose 20 ml+thrombin 5 000 U).②Changing the patient's position under continuous negative pressure suction to find the position causing the complete stop or significant reduction of air leakage, and keeping in the position for 24-48 hours.③If the PAL wasn't stopped 48 hours later, the procedures above would be repeated.The duration of air leakage after "position plus", times of pleural cavity injection, condition of lung re-expansion, recurrence of air leakage and complications during hospitalization were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the results:¯x±s or M(P₂₅, P₇₅) for continuous variables; frequency and percentages for categoric variables. Results: A total of 20 patients were included. The average duration of air leakage after"position plus" was (1.32±0.97) days. The times of pleural cavity injection required were 1.0(1.0, 1.0).All the patients showed good lung re-expansion in review of imaging after PAL was stopped. One patient had recurrent air leakage during hospitalization. No serious complications occurred. Conclusion: The comprehensive "position plus" intervention method is effective, safe and easily operating for the treatment of PAL after medical thoracoscopic treatment of bullous pulmonary-pleural diseases.

Assessment of the susceptibility status of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) from Interior, Sandakan and Tawau divisions of Sabah, Malaysia based on WHO diagnostic doses of larvicides

Susceptibility status of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) sampled from residential areas in Interior, Sandakan and Tawau divisions of Sabah, Malaysia, was evaluated based on the WHOrecommended doses of organochlorine and organophosphate larvicides. To determine susceptibility status, larval bioassays were carried out and post 24-hour mortalities based on WHO resistance classifications were adopted. The results demonstrated that Ae. albopictus larvae were resistant toward 5 out of the 8 larvicides tested. Larvae from all populations were resistant against bromophos, fenitrothion, malathion, temephos and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), with mortalities ranging from 0.00 to 89.33%. Dieldrin, on the other hand, could induce 100.00% mortalities in all populations, followed by fenthion and chlorpyrifos, with mortalities ranging from 97.33 to 100.00% and 81.33 to 100.00% respectively. Despite most populations exhibiting similitude in their resistance status, larvae from Sandakan exhibited the highest resistance level whereas the lowest level was observed in Keningau. In view of the inadequacy of some larvicides in controlling Ae. albopictus in this study, integrated management such as insecticide rotation or combination of interventions is warranted.

Descriptions of the female, male and mature larva of Simulium contractum Takaoka (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Sulawesi, Indonesia

Simulium (Simulium) contractum Takaoka from Sulawesi, Indonesia was known only as the pupa. Its female, male and mature larva are described for the first time. The tentative assignment of this species in the Simulium dumogaense species-group is confirmed by the adult characters including the female and male genitalia. The female and male of this species are similar to those of Simulium (Simulium) tumpaense Takaoka and Roberts but are distinguished by the yellowish femora.

Adulticide Resistance Status of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Sabah, Malaysia: A Statewide Assessment

Resistance status of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) collected from Sabah, East Malaysia, was evaluated against four major classes of adulticides, namely pyrethroid, carbamate, organochlorine, and organophosphate. Adult bioassays conforming to WHO standard protocols were conducted to assess knockdown and mortality rates of Ae. albopictus. Among tested pyrethroid adulticides, only cyfluthrin, lambda-cyaholthrin, and deltamethrin were able to inflict total knockdown. The other adulticide classes mostly failed to cause any knockdown; the highest knockdown rate was only 18.33% for propoxur. With regards to mortality rate, Ae. albopictus was unanimously susceptible toward all pyrethroids, dieldrin, and malathion, but exhibited resistance toward bendiocarb, propoxur, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, and fenitrothion. Additionally, correlation analysis demonstrated cross-resistance between bendiocarb and propoxur, and malathion and propoxur. In conclusion, this study has disclosed that pyrethroids are still generally effective for Aedes control in Sabah, Malaysia. The susceptibility status of Ae. albopictus against pyrethroids in descending order was cyfluthrin > lambda-cyhalothrin > deltamethrin > etofenprox > permethrin.

A new species of the Simulium (Simulium) crocinum species-group (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Vietnam

A new black fly species, Simulium yukawai, is described on the basis of one female and its pupal exuviae from Vietnam. This new species is placed in the S. crocinum species-group of Simulium (Simulium) (Diptera: Simuliidae). It is characterized in the female by the paraproct covered with 48-50 distinct hairs on its ventral and lateral surfaces, and in the pupa by the frons and most of the thorax bare, gill with six dark filaments in three pairs closely arising from the base, of which the two outer filaments of the dorsal and middle pairs are much longer than other filaments, abdomen with distinct spine-combs on the dorsal surface of segments 7-9, and cocoon wall-pocket shaped, with a large anterolateral window on each side. Taxonomic notes are given to separate this new species from related species. This species is the fourth member of the S. crocinum species-group known from Vietnam.

Preliminary dengue vector surveillance in the Sunda Islands, Indonesia: Interchange of breeding habitat preferences of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus

Ovitrap surveillance was conducted to determine the infestation patterns of dengue vectors in fourteen study sites across eight provinces located in the Sunda Islands, Indonesia. High ovitrap indices up to 70% and 90% were obtained from indoor and outdoor areas, respectively. Mean numbers of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus larvae ranged from 0.13 to 14.50 and 0.10 to 18.60, respectively. Mixed infestation (<10%) and interchange of breeding habitat preferences of Ae. albopictus and Ae. aegypti were also observed in the present study.

Monitoring Insecticide Resistance Profiles of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Sunda Islands of Indonesia Based on Diagnostic Doses of Larvicides

This study was conducted to monitor the susceptibility status of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) larvae in the Sunda Islands of Indonesia against various organophosphates and organochlorines. Larval bioassay was performed in accordance with the World Health Organization standard protocol. Field-collected and reference strains of Ae. aegypti larvae were tested against diagnostic doses of eight larvicides belonging to organophosphates and organochlorines, namely bromophos (0.050 mg/liter), chlopyrifos (0.002 mg/liter), fenitrothion (0.020 mg/liter), fenthion (0.025 mg/liter), malathion (0.125 mg/liter), temephos (0.012 mg/liter), DDT (0.012 mg/liter), and dieldrin (0.025 mg/liter). Mortality rates of larvae were recorded at 24-h posttreatment. This study showed that Ae. aegypti larvae from Padang, Samarinda, Manggarai Barat, and South Central Timor were susceptible to both fenitrothion and dieldrin (mortality rates ≥ 98%). About 6 out of 10 field strains of Ae. aegypti larvae were resistant (<80% mortality rates) against fenthion, whereas Ae. aegypti larvae from Kuningan, Samarinda, Sumba, and South Central Timor exhibited some degrees of resistance (mortality rates 80-98%). All field-collected Ae. aegypti larvae were resistant against diagnostic doses of chlorpyrifos, malathion, temephos, and DDT with mortality rates ranging from 0 to 74.67%. Continued insecticide susceptibility studies are essential to identify the efficacy of insecticides for an improved dengue vector control and to delay the development of insecticide resistance.

Three new species of black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) from the Lesser Sunda Archipelago, Indonesia

Simulium (Gomphostilbia) dhangi sp. nov., S. (G.) sumbaense sp. nov. and S. (Nevermannia) wayani sp. nov. are described from the Lesser Sunda Archipelago, Indonesia. Simulium (G.) sumbaense sp. nov. is placed in the S. varicorne species-group and is characterized by the pupal gill with eight filaments arranged as (1+1+1+1+2)+2 from dorsal to ventral, while S. (G.) dhangi sp. nov., unplaced to group, is characterized by the pupal gill composed of two inflated trunks and four slender filaments all arising basally, and the short larval antenna as long as the stem of the labral fan. Simulium (N.) wayani sp. nov. belongs to the S. ruficorne species-group and is characterized by the female spermatheca with an unsclerotized neck, and pupal gill with four inflated filaments. The number of species of black flies from the archipelago increases from 19 to 22.

Bioefficacy Evaluation of Commercial Mosquito Coils Containing Metofluthrin, d-Allethrin, d-Trans Allethrin, and Prallethrin Against Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Malaysia

The bioefficacy of commercial mosquito coils containing four different active ingredients, namely metofluthrin, d-allethrin, d-trans allethrin, and prallethrin against Aedes albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae) from 10 states in Malaysia, was evaluated using the glass chamber method. In this study, Ae. albopictus exhibited various knockdown rates (50% knockdown time, KT50), ranging from 2.50 to 5.00 min, 2.50 to 7.00 min, 3.00 to 8.00 min, and 5.00 to 17.00 min for metofluthrin, d-trans allethrin, d-allethrin, and prallethrin, respectively. Overall, all strains of Ae. albopictus were most susceptible to metofluthrin, with mortality rates >80%. On the other hand, mortality rates ranging from 5.0 to 100% were observed from all populations exposed to d-trans allethrin, d-allethrin, and prallethrin. In addition, significant correlations between KT50 of metofluthrin and d-allethrin (r = 0.758, P = 0.011), metofluthrin and prallethrin (r = 0.676, P = 0.032), d-allethrin and d-trans allethrin (r = 0.832, P = 0.003), d-allethrin and prallethrin (r = 0.921, P = 0.000), and d-trans allethrin with prallethrin (r = 0.941, P = 0.000) were detected, suggesting some levels of cross-resistance within the pyrethroid insecticides. This study demonstrated that metofluthrin can induce high insecticidal activity in Ae. albopictus in Malaysia, followed by d-trans allethrin, d-allethrin, and prallethrin.

Organophosphate and Organochlorine Resistance in Larval Stage of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in Sabah, Malaysia

The present study aims to investigate the susceptibility status of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) collected from residential areas in Sabah, Malaysia towards eight WHO-recommended dosages of larvicides representing the classes of organophosphates and organochlorines. Field and reference strains of Ae. albopictus larvae were bioassayed in accordance to WHO standard methods using diagnostic dosages of bromophos, malathion, fenthion, fenitrothion, temephos, chlorpyrifos, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and dieldrin. The results revealed that Ae. albopictus was resistant (mortality < 90%) towards malathion, temephos, and DDT. In addition, most of the Ae. albopictus strains exhibited a wide range of susceptibilities against bromophos, with mortality ranged from 49.33 to 93.33%. On the contrary, only dieldrin was able to induce 100% mortality against all strains of Ae. albopictus. Tolerance to fenitrothion, fenthion, and chlorpyrifos, with mortality ranging from 81.33 to 97.33%, was also observed in this study.

Single and co-breeding of different mosquito species in fogging-free and dengue risk areas in West Malaysia

Ovitrap surveillance was carried out in fifteen localities encompassing foggingfree and dengue risk areas in West Malaysia to determine on the dispersal and prevalence of single and co-breeding of mosquito larvae particularly Aedes. Ovitraps were sited randomly indoors and outdoors within human settlements in all study areas. All the localities exhibited positive ovitraps with single breeding of Ae. albopictus that ranged between 64.29% and 100.00%. These findings indicated Ae. albopictus as the predominant container-breeding species in all study areas. The co-breeding of Ae. aegypti with Ae. albopictus larvae (34 ovitraps), Ae. albopictus with Culex quinquefasciatus larvae (32 ovitraps) as well as Cx. quinquefasciatus with Armigeres subalbatus larvae (1 ovitrap) were also detected in certain study localities. Interestingly, co-breeding of Ae. albopictus with Ar. subalbatus larvae as well as Ae. albopictus with Uranotaenia sp. larvae in Malaysia is reported for the first time in the present study. Better understanding of the co-breeding scenario involving different species of mosquito larvae is needed to ensure the efficacy of vector control actions to be conducted.

Ovitrap surveillance in Sarawak, Malaysia: A comprehensive study

Tropical Infectious Diseases Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia This study reports the distribution and abundance of Aedes by using ovitrap surveillance and aims to provide the most recent information on dengue vector distribution in Sarawak State, Malaysia. The ovitrap index (OI) of Aedes larvae was found highest in urban residential area (mean OI = 90.97%), followed by suburban (69.70%), rural (65.45%) and remote (52.63%) residential areas. The mean number of Aedes larvae per ovitrap was also found to be significantly highest in urban residential area (26.47 ± 1.62) compared to other type of residential areas (p<0.05). Interestingly, no Aedes aegypti was observed in this study, but two species of Armigeres were found co-breeding with Ae. albopictus. This study reveals that Ae. albopictus is the dominant dengue vector in Sarawak State and all the surveyed residential areas are in risk of dengue transmission with OI > 10.

Comparative Efficacy of Commercial Mosquito Coils Against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in Malaysia: A Nationwide Report

This study was conducted using the glass chamber method to determine the susceptibility status of the dengue vector, Aedes aegypti (L.) from 11 states in Malaysia to commercial mosquito coils containing four different active ingredients, namely metofluthrin, d-allethrin, d-trans allethrin, and prallethrin. Aedes aegypti exhibited various knockdown rates, ranging from 14.44% to 100.00%, 0.00% to 61.67%, 0.00% to 90.00%, and 0.00% to 13.33% for metofluthrin, d-allethrin, d-trans allethrin, and prallethrin, respectively. Overall, mortality rates ranging from 0.00% to 78.33% were also observed among all populations. Additionally, significant associations were detected between the knockdown rates of metofluthrin and d-allethrin, and between metofluthrin and d-trans allethrin, suggesting the occurrence of cross-resistance within pyrethroid insecticides. Overall, this study revealed low insecticidal activity of mosquito coils against Ae. aegypti populations in Malaysia, and consequently may provide minimal personal protection against mosquito bites.

APOBEC3A is an oral cancer prognostic biomarker in Taiwanese carriers of an APOBEC deletion polymorphism

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a prominent cancer worldwide, particularly in Taiwan. By integrating omics analyses in 50 matched samples, we uncover in Taiwanese patients a predominant mutation signature associated with cytidine deaminase APOBEC, which correlates with the upregulation of APOBEC3A expression in the APOBEC3 gene cluster at 22q13. APOBEC3A expression is significantly higher in tumors carrying APOBEC3B-deletion allele(s). High-level APOBEC3A expression is associated with better overall survival, especially among patients carrying APOBEC3B-deletion alleles, as examined in a second cohort (n = 188; p = 0.004). The frequency of APOBEC3B-deletion alleles is ~50% in 143 genotyped oral squamous cell carcinoma -Taiwan samples (27A3B^−/−:89A3B^+/−:27A3B^+/+), compared to the 5.8% found in 314 OSCC-TCGA samples. We thus report a frequent APOBEC mutational profile, which relates to a APOBEC3B-deletion germline polymorphism in Taiwanese oral squamous cell carcinoma that impacts expression of APOBEC3A, and is shown to be of clinical prognostic relevance. Our finding might be recapitulated by genomic studies in other cancer types.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a prevalent malignancy in Taiwan. Here, the authors show that OSCC in Taiwanese show a frequent deletion polymorphism in the cytidine deaminases gene cluster APOBEC3 resulting in increased expression of A3A, which is shown to be of clinical prognostic relevance.

A new species and seven new records of black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) from Kalimantan, Indonesia

A new species of black fly, Simulium (Gomphostilbia) paserense sp. nov., is described based on a pharate pupa and mature larvae from East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Simulium (G.) paserense sp. nov. is placed in the Simulium epistum species-group of the subgenus Gomphostilbia and is characterized by the pupal gill with 13 short, slender filaments arising at the same level from a short common basal stalk and three dorsomedial trichomes (plus three ventrolateral trichomes) on each side of the pupal thorax closely arising from one another, both characters rarely occurring in Gomphostilbia species. Taxonomic notes are given to separate this new species from its close allies, S. (G.) barioense Takaoka and S. (G.) fulgidum Takaoka, both described from Sarawak. Seven known species, S. (G.) cheongi Takaoka and Davies, S. (G.) lehi Takaoka, S. (G.) sarawakense Takaoka, S. (G.) tahanense Takaoka and Davies, S. (Simulium) mirum Takaoka, Sofian-Azirun and Low, S. (S.) keningauense Takaoka and S. (S.) sabahense Smart and Clifford, are newly recorded from Kalimantan. The male and larva of S. (G.) sarawakense are described for the first time.

Simulated field study on the efficacy of the thermal application of a synergized pyrethroid formulation against Aedes aegypti (Linn.) and Culex quinquefasciatus Say

Thermal application of a synergized pyrethroid formulation containing 0.8% w/w sbioallethrin, 18.7% w/w permethrin and 16.8% w/w piperonyl butoxide was performed to evaluate its efficacy against adult and larva of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. Three cages each containing 15 mosquitoes and paper cups each containing 25 larvae in 250 ml of water were deployed at each test point between 3 and 20 feet. The formulation was diluted (formulation:water) 1:33, 1:50 and 1:100, respectively, and applied using a thermal fogger. Sixty minutes post spraying, the adult knock down rate of Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus at a maximum distance of 15 feet using all dilution ratios ranged from 96.67 - 100% and 43.33 - 100%, respectively. More than 70.00% adult mortalities were recorded for both mosquito species at the distance between 3 feet and 15 feet 24 hours post spraying. In contrast, complete larval mortalities of Ae. aegypti were obtained at a maximum distance of 10 feet with dilution ratio of 1:33, while more than 80.00% larval mortalities were observed for Cx. quinquefasciatus at similar maximum distance using all dilution ratios. These results showed that thermal application using synergized pyrethroid formulation was effective against both mosquito species tested especially the adult stage.

Biting behaviour of medically important mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Peninsular Malaysia

Human-landing catch (HLC) technique was undertaken in nine selected study sites within Peninsular Malaysia to determine the biting cycle of Aedes, Armigeres, Culex, and Mansonia mosquitoes. HLC was conducted 24 hours on three different nights in a duration of one week at each study site. Aedes albopictus were found in all study sites with bimodal biting cycle, whereas the biting peak of Aedes butleri was recorded between 1600 and 1900 hr. For Armigeres, five study sites demonstrated similar biting peak hour (1900 - 2000 hr) for Ar. kesseli four study sites showed biting peak at 1800 - 1900 hr for Ar. subalbatus. Culex quinquefasciatus was collected from all study sites except in Sungai Penchala with its biting activity beginning from 1900 hr. Both Mansonia annulifera and Mansonia uniformis captured in two different study sites showed similar biting peaks (1500 - 1600 hr). It is recommended that vector control activities be carried out at dusk as almost all mosquito species captured started their biting activities at that time.

Hypoxia induces autophagy in PA-l ovarian teratoma cells and resistance to growth inhibition and apoptosis by chemotherapeutic agent cis-diamminedichloroplatinum

Pathological hypoxia exists in solid tumors and it creates a microenvironment for tumor cells which has a critical and complicated implication for cancer. Hypoxia can also activate autophagy which plays a dual role in cancer. In this study the authors analyzed the effect of hypoxia, the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA), cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (CDDP, cisplatin), and any combination of them on PA-l cells (a human ovarian cancer cell line) with a series of assays, focusing on autophagy induction, cell growth inhibition, and cell death by CDDP. CDDP caused apoptosis in normoxic PA-l cells and autophagy upon hypoxia treatment decreased apoptosis induction in hypoxic cells by CDDP, which has implications in cancer chemotherapy resistance.

Distribution and abundance of black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) in recreation parks in Selangor State, Peninsular Malaysia

A preliminary survey of larvae and pupae of black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) was conducted in three recreation parks [Templer Recreation Park (TRP), Congkak River Forest Reserve (CRFR) and Ampang Forest Reserve (AFR)] located in Selangor State, which is located 18 to 35 km from Kuala Lumpur city center, Malaysia. This study was initiated to determine the distribution and abundance of filarial vectors, Simulium spp. A total of 12 species of black flies belonging to three subgenera (Gomphostilbia, Simulium and Nevermannia) were collected. Simulium (Simulium) nobile was incriminated as the most dominant species in all recreation parks. This study is a first report on the distribution and abundance of black flies obtained from recreation parks in Malaysia.

Klotho Is a Neuroprotective and Cognition-Enhancing Protein

In this chapter, we will describe what has been learned about Klotho and its potential functions in the brain. Klotho is localized in the choroid plexus and, to a lesser extent, in hippocampal neurons. Cognitive decline is a common issue in human aging affecting over 50% of the population. This cognitive decline can also be seen in animal models such as the Rhesus monkey. A long-term study undertaken by our lab demonstrated that normal brain aging in rhesus monkeys and other animal models is associated with a significant downregulation of Klotho expression. This observation substantiates data from other laboratories that have reported that loss of Klotho accelerates the development of aging-like phenotypes, including cognitive deficits, whereas Klotho overexpression extends life span and enhances cognition in mice and humans. Klotho is a type 1 transmembrane pleiotropic protein predominantly expressed in kidney and brain and shed by ADAM 10 and 17 into the blood and cerebral spinal fluid, respectively. While the renal functions of Klotho are well known, its roles in the brain remain to be fully elucidated. We recently demonstrated that Klotho protects hippocampal neurons from amyloid and glutamate toxicity via the activation of an antioxidant enzymatic system suggesting Klotho is a neuroprotective protein. Furthermore, Klotho is necessary for oligodendrocyte maturation and myelin integrity. Through its diverse roles in the brain, Klotho has become a new therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis. Discovery of small molecule Klotho enhancers may lead to novel treatments for these incurable disorders.

High-contrast laser acceleration of relativistic electrons in solid cone-wire targets

The consequences of small scale-length precursor plasmas on high-intensity laser-driven relativistic electrons are studied via experiments and simulations. Longer scale-length plasmas are shown to dramatically increase the efficiency of electron acceleration, yet, if too long, they reduce the coupling of these electrons into the solid target. Evidence for the existence of an optimal plasma scale-length is presented and estimated to be from 1 to 5μm. Experiments on the Trident laser (I=5×10(19)W/cm(2)) diagnosed via Kα emission from Cu wires attached to Au cones are quantitively reproduced using 2D particle-in-cell simulations that capture the full temporal and spatial scale of the nonlinear laser interaction and electron transport. The simulations indicate that 32%±8%(6.5%±2%) of the laser energy is coupled into electrons of all energies (1-3 MeV) reaching the inner cone tip and that, with an optimized scale-length, this could increase to 35% (9%).

Evaluation of insect growth regulators, temephos and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis against Aedes aegypti (L) in plastic containers

The residual activities of 5 insect growth regulators (IGRs) were studied and compared to operational dosage of temephos (1 mg/L) and Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) (0.008 mg/L). The IGRs, temephos and Bti were applied into plastic containers containing 5 litres of water. Thirty Aedes aegypti larvae were added into each container weekly. Efficacy of these IGRs were evaluated for effective duration of each dosage and the percentage of emergence inhibition (EI). An end-point of EI/mortality ≥ 50% was considered to be effective. Pyriproxyfen possessed the longest residual activity in both indoor (43 weeks) and outdoor (26 weeks) conditions, followed by temephos (26 weeks in indoor and 16 weeks in outdoor). Although the residual activity of Bti in indoor lasted 8 weeks which was longer than cyromazine and diflubenzuron; however, it was least effective in outdoor which only lasted 2 weeks. This study revealed that pyriproxyfen possessed good residual effect among test IGRs compared to temephos and Bti. The use of IGRs can be an alternative long-term control measure in stagnant water body.

Retroperitoneal laparoscopy management for ureteral fibroepithelial polyps causing hydronephrosis in children: a report of five cases

INTRODUCTION

Hydronephrosis is a common disease in children and may be caused by ureteral fibroepithelial polyps (UFP). Ureteral fibroepithelial polyps are rare in children and are difficult to precisely diagnose before surgery. Surgical treatment for symptomatic UFP is recommended. At the present institution, retroperitoneal laparoscopy has been used to treat five boys with UFP since 2006.

OBJECTIVE

To highlight the significance of UFP as an etiological factor of hydronephrosis in children and evaluate the applicative value of retroperitoneal laparoscopy in the treatment of children with UFP.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2013 five boys underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopy at the present institution. They were identified with UFP by review of the clinical database. Detailed data were collected, including: radiographic studies, gross anatomical pathology, and pathology and radiology reports. All boys had been followed up at least every 6 months.

RESULTS

All of the boys were aged between 7 and 16 years (mean 9.8 years). The main symptoms were flank pain (all five) and hematuria (three). Radiographic examination showed that all of the boys presented with incomplete ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis. The ureteral fibroepithelial polyps were located near the left UPJ or the left proximal ureter. All of the boys had the UFP removed: three underwent retroperitoneal laparoscopic dismembered Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty and polypectomy, and two had retroperitoneal laparoscopic ureteral anastomosis. These polyps were all on the left side and between 15 and 35 mm in length (mean 22 mm) (Figure). All of the boys recovered well and were discharged from hospital. The postoperative histological report confirmed that the specimens were UFP. Hydronephrosis was periodically assessed by ultrasonography (using the same method as pre-surgical ultrasonography) after surgery. Mean follow-up was 33 months (range 6-58 months) and no complications were found afterwards.

CONCLUSIONS

Ureteral fibroepithelial polyps are rare but rather important as they can cause UPJ obstruction, which often manifests as hydronephrosis. It is most important to confirm the site of ureteral obstruction before surgery as this may have an effect on the surgical management. It is recommended that UFP be successfully managed in children with retroperitoneal laparoscopy.

First molecular genotyping of A302S mutation in the gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor in Aedes albopictus from Malaysia

Given the lack of molecular evidence in altered target-site insecticide resistance mechanism in Aedes albopictus (Skuse) worldwide, the present study aims to detect the presence of A302S mutation in the gene encoding the gamma aminobutyric acid receptor resistant to dieldrin (Rdl) in Ae. albopictus for the first time from its native range of South East Asia, namely Malaysia. World Health Organization (WHO) adult susceptibility bioassay indicated a relatively low level of dieldrin resistance (two-fold) in Ae. albopictus from Petaling Jaya, Selangor. However, PCR-RFLP and direct sequencing methods revealed the presence of the A302S mutation with the predomination of heterozygous genotype (40 out of 82 individuals), followed by the resistant genotype with 11 individuals. This study represents the first field evolved instance of A302S mutation in Malaysian insect species.

A multi-locus approach resolves the phylogenetic relationships of the Simulium asakoae and Simulium ceylonicum species groups in Malaysia: evidence for distinct evolutionary lineages

A multi-locus approach was used to examine the DNA sequences of 10 nominal species of blackfly in the Simulium subgenus Gomphostilbia (Diptera: Simuliidae) in Malaysia. Molecular data were acquired from partial DNA sequences of the mitochondria-encoded cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes, and the nuclear-encoded 18S rRNA and 28S rRNA genes. No single gene, nor the concatenated gene set, resolved all species or all relationships. However, all morphologically established species were supported by at least one gene. The multi-locus sequence analysis revealed two distinct evolutionary lineages, conforming to the morphotaxonomically recognized Simulium asakoae and Simulium ceylonicum species groups.

TEMPORAL CHANGES OF AEDES AND ARMIGERES POPULATIONS IN SUBURBAN AND FORESTED AREAS IN MALAYSIA

Surveillance of mosquitoes and their distribution in association with rainfall, relative humidity, and temperature were conducted in selected suburban and forested areas, namely, Sungai Penchala (Kuala Lumpur) and Taman Alam (Selangor) for 12 months. Armigeres kesseli was the most abundant species in Sungai Penchala while Aedes butleri was the most dominant species in Taman Alam. A positive correlation between mosquito distribution and rainfall was observed in selected mosquito species in Sungai Penchala (Armigeres kesseli, r = 0.75; Armigeres subalbatus, r = 0.62; and Aedes albopictus, r = 0.65) and Taman Alam (Armigeres sp, r = 0.59; Ae. butleri, r = 0.85; and Ae. albopictus, r = 0.62). However, no significant cor- relation was found either between selected mosquito species in both study areas and relative humidity or temperature. Results obtained suggested that vector control programs to be conducted based on temporal distribution of vectors in order to achieve beneficial outcomes with effective costing.

Female black flies of Simulium (Diptera: Simuliidae) collected on humans in Tam Dao National Park, Vietnam: description of a new species and notes on four species newly recorded from Vietnam

A total of 29 female black flies were captured by a hand net as they swarmed around humans in Tam Dao National Park, Vinh Phuc Province, Vietnam. They included one species of the subgenus Gomphostilbia (Simulium (Gomphostilbia) asakoae Takaoka & Davies) and five species of the subgenus Simulium, of which one species is described as Simulium (Simulium) vietnamense sp. nov. and the other four species (S. (S.) chungi Takaoka & Huang, S. (S.) grossifilum Takaoka & Davies, S. (S.) maenoi Takaoka & Choochote, and S. (S.) rufibasis Brunetti) are newly recorded from Vietnam.

Multiple resistance of Culex vishnui Theobald against four major classes of insecticides in an agricultural area in Sekinchan, Selangor, Malaysia

The resistance status of riceland Culex vishnui against four major groups of insecticides (i.e., organochlorines, carbamates, organophosphates and pyrethroids) was investigated. Biochemical assays (ESTα, ESTβ, MFO and GST) were also conducted to detect the resistance levels. Throughout a 12-month study period, multiple insecticide resistance was observed in both larvae and adult Cx vishnui. Culex vishnui larvae exhibited low resistance against malathion, temephos and permethrin with resistance ratio (RR) values < 5. In adult bioassay, Cx. vishnui were highly resistant against all tested adulticides with 24h post-treatment mortality < 70%. Correlations between permethrin and malathion resistance, as well as between deltamethrin and cyfluthrin resistance were found in Cx. vishnui. The results indicated that mixed function oxidases activity of Cx. vishnui was the highest compared to ESTα, ESTβ and GST. Spearman rank-order analysis showed that ESTα, ESTβ and GST were involved in multiple resistances in Cx. vishnui. The findings of this study established a baseline of insecticide susceptibility and revealed the effects of agricultural insecticide pressure on the vectors of Japanese encephalitis in Malaysia.

A preliminary report on ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) recovered from forensic entomological studies conducted in different ecological habitats in Malaysia

This study reported the ant species that were recovered from monkey carcasses in three different ecological habitats in Malaysia. The study was conducted from 9 May - 10 October 2007, 6 May - 6 August 2008 and 26 May - 14 July 2009 in forested area (Gombak, Selangor), coastal area (Tanjong Sepat, Selangor) and highland area (Bukit Cincin, Pahang), respectively. Monkey carcass was used as a model for human decomposition in this study. A total of 4 replicates were used in each of the study sites. Ants were observed to prey on eggs, larvae, pupae and newly emerged flies. This study found that ant species could be found at all stages of decomposition, indicating that ants were not a significant indicator for faunal succession. However, different species of ants were obtained from monkey carcasses placed in different ecological habitats. Cardiocondyla sp. was only found on carcasses placed in the coastal area; while Pheidole longipes, Hypoponera sp. and Pachycondyla sp. were solely found on carcasses placed in the highland area. On the other hand, Pheidologeton diversus and Paratrechina longicornis were found in several ecological habitats. These data suggests that specific ant species can act as geographic indicators for different ecological habitats in forensic entomology cases in Malaysia.

Mitochondrial DNA analyses reveal low genetic diversity in Culex quinquefasciatus from residential areas in Malaysia

The present study explored the intraspecific genetic diversity, dispersal patterns and phylogeographic relationships of Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) in Malaysia using reference data available in GenBank in order to reveal this species' phylogenetic relationships. A statistical parsimony network of 70 taxa aligned as 624 characters of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene and 685 characters of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COII) gene revealed three haplotypes (A1-A3) and four haplotypes (B1-B4), respectively. The concatenated sequences of both COI and COII genes with a total of 1309 characters revealed seven haplotypes (AB1-AB7). Analysis using tcs indicated that haplotype AB1 was the common ancestor and the most widespread haplotype in Malaysia. The genetic distance based on concatenated sequences of both COI and COII genes ranged from 0.00076 to 0.00229. Sequence alignment of Cx. quinquefasciatus from Malaysia and other countries revealed four haplotypes (AA1-AA4) by the COI gene and nine haplotypes (BB1-BB9) by the COII gene. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that Malaysian Cx. quinquefasciatus share the same genetic lineage as East African and Asian Cx. quinquefasciatus. This study has inferred the genetic lineages, dispersal patterns and hypothetical ancestral genotypes of Cx. quinquefasciatus.

Deflection of MeV electrons by self-generated magnetic fields in intense laser-solid interactions

We show that the interaction of relativistic-intensity, picosecond laser pulses with solid targets is affected by the reflected light through the strong currents and 10(4)  T magnetic fields it produces. Three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations, with the axisymmetry broken by a small angle of incidence, show that these magnetic fields deflect the laser-accelerated electrons away from the incident laser axis. This directly impacts the interpretation of electron divergence and directionality in applications such as laser-driven ion acceleration or fast-ignition inertial fusion.

First molecular genotyping of voltage gated sodium channel alleles in Culex quinquefasciatus populations in Malaysia

A nationwide investigation was performed to detect the presence of 1014 mutation(s) in voltage gated sodium channel (kdr) gene of Culex quinquefasciatus from 14 residential areas across 13 states and a federal territory in Malaysia. Molecular genotyping of kdr mutation was performed via a modified three tubes allele-specific-polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) and direct sequencing of kdr gene. Based on the results of AS-PCR, homozygous susceptible (SS) genotype was found in nine out of 14 populations with 38 individuals from a total sample size of 140. Heterozygous (RS) genotype was most predominant (99 individuals) and distributed across all study sites. Homozygous resistance (RR) genotype was detected in Perak (one individual) and Selangor (two individuals). The resistance kdr allele frequencies ranged from 0.1 to 0.55, with the highest being detected in Cx. quinquefasciatus population from Selangor. This study has documented the first field-evolved instance of 1014F mutation in Malaysian mosquitoes and the findings of this study could be utilized in the implementation of strategic measures in vector control programs in Malaysia.

Temephos resistance in field Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Skuse) from Selangor, Malaysia

Larvae of Aedes albopictus obtained from dengue endemic areas in Selangor, Malaysia were evaluated for their susceptibility to operational dosage of temephos (1 mg/L). Larval bioassays were carried out in accordance to modified WHO standard methods. Biochemical microassay of enzymes in Ae. albopictus was conducted to detect the emergence of insecticide resistance and to define the mechanisms involved in temephos resistance. The 50% mortality lethal time (LT50) for Ae. albopictus tested against temephos ranged between 58.65 to 112.50 minutes, with resistance ratio ranging from 0.75 - 1.45. This study addressed the fluctuation of time-related susceptibility status of Ae. albopictus towards insecticide. Significant difference on the weekly enzyme levels of non-specific esterases, mixed function oxidases and glutathione S-transferases was detected (p ≤ 0.05). No significant correlation was found between temephos resistance and enzyme activity (p > 0.05). Only glutathione S-transferases displayed high level of activity, indicating that Ae. albopictus may be resistant to other groups of insecticide. The insensitive acetylcholinesterase was detected in some field collected Ae. albopictus populations, indicating the possibility of emergence of carbamate or other organophosphate resistance in the field populations. Continuous resistance monitoring should be conducted regularly to confirm the efficacy of insecticides for dengue control.

Vertical distribution of Aedes mosquitoes in multiple storey buildings in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The aim of the present study was to determine the vertical distribution and abundance of Aedes mosquitoes in multiple storey buildings in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Ovitrap surveillance was conducted for 4 continuous weeks in multiple storey buildings in 4 residential areas located in Selangor [Kg. Baiduri (KB)] and Kuala Lumpur [Student Hostel of University of Malaya (UM), Kg. Kerinchi (KK) and Hang Tuah (HT)]. The results implied that Aedes mosquitoes could be found from ground floor to highest floor of multiple storey buildings and data from different elevation did not show significant difference. Ovitrap index for UM, KB, HT and KK ranged from 0 - 29.17%, 0 - 55.56%, 8.33 - 83.33% and 0 - 91.17% respectively. Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus were found breeding in HT, KK and KB; while only Ae. albopictus was obtained from UM. The results indicate that the invasion of Aedes mosquitoes in high-rise apartments could facilitate the transmission of dengue virus and new approaches to vector control in this type of residential area should be developed.

Effects of preplasma scale length and laser intensity on the divergence of laser-generated hot electrons

We report on a numerical study of the effects of preplasma scale length and laser intensity on the hot-electron (≥1 MeV) divergence angle using full-scale 2D3V (two dimensional in space, three dimensional in velocity) simulations including a self-consistent laser-plasma interaction and photoionization using the particle-in-cell code LSP. Our simulations show that the fast-electron divergence angle increases approximately linearly with the preplasma scale length for a fixed laser intensity. On the other hand, for a fixed preplasma scale length, the laser intensity has little effect on the divergence angle in the range between 10(18) and 10(21) W/cm(2). These findings have important implications for the interpretation of experimental results.

Effect of target material on fast-electron transport and resistive collimation

The effect of target material on fast-electron transport is investigated using a high-intensity (0.7 ps, 10(20)  W/cm2) laser pulse irradiated on multilayered solid Al targets with embedded transport (Au, Mo, Al) and tracer (Cu) layers, backed with millimeter-thick carbon foils to minimize refluxing. We consistently observed a more collimated electron beam (36% average reduction in fast-electron induced Cu Kα spot size) using a high- or mid-Z (Au or Mo) layer compared to Al. All targets showed a similar electron flux level in the central spot of the beam. Two-dimensional collisional particle-in-cell simulations showed formation of strong self-generated resistive magnetic fields in targets with a high-Z transport layer that suppressed the fast-electron beam divergence; the consequent magnetic channels guided the fast electrons to a smaller spot, in good agreement with experiments. These findings indicate that fast-electron transport can be controlled by self-generated resistive magnetic fields and may have important implications to fast ignition.

Current susceptibility status of Malaysian Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) against DDT, propoxur, malathion, and permethrin

A nationwide investigation was carried out to determine the current susceptibility status of Culex quinquefasciatus Say populations against four active ingredients representing four major insecticide classes: DDT, propoxur, malathion, and permethrin. Across 14 study sites, both larval and adult bioassays exhibited dissimilar trends in susceptibility. A correlation between propoxur and malathion resistance and between propoxur and permethrin resistance in larval bioassays was found. The results obtained from this study provide baseline information for vector control programs conducted by local authorities. The susceptibility status of this mosquito should be monitored from time to time to ensure the effectiveness of current vector control operations in Malaysia.

Dynamics of relativistic laser-plasma interaction on solid targets

A novel time-resolved diagnostic is used to record the critical surface motion during picosecond-scale relativistic laser interaction with a solid target. Single-shot measurements of the specular light show a redshift decreasing with time during the interaction, corresponding to a slowing-down of the hole boring process into overdense plasma. On-shot full characterization of the laser pulse enables simulations of the experiment without any free parameters. Two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations yield redshifts that agree with the data, and support a simple explanation of the slowing-down of the critical surface based on momentum conservation between ions and reflected laser light.

Hot electron temperature and coupling efficiency scaling with prepulse for cone-guided fast ignition

The effect of increasing prepulse energy levels on the energy spectrum and coupling into forward-going electrons is evaluated in a cone-guided fast-ignition relevant geometry using cone-wire targets irradiated with a high intensity (10(20) W/cm(2)) laser pulse. Hot electron temperature and flux are inferred from Kα images and yields using hybrid particle-in-cell simulations. A two-temperature distribution of hot electrons was required to fit the full profile, with the ratio of energy in a higher energy (MeV) component increasing with a larger prepulse. As prepulse energies were increased from 8 mJ to 1 J, overall coupling from laser to all hot electrons entering the wire was found to fall from 8.4% to 2.5% while coupling into only the 1-3 MeV electrons dropped from 0.57% to 0.03%.

Magnetic field enhanced resonant tunneling in a silicon nanowire single-electron-transistor

We report fabrication, measurement and simulation of silicon single-electron-transistors made on silicon-on-insulator wafers. At T-2 K, these devices showed clear Coulomb blockade structures. An external perpendicular magnetic field was found to enhance the resonant tunneling peak and was used to predict the presence of two laterally coupled quantum dots in the narrow constriction between the source-drain electrodes. The proposed model and measured experimental data were consistently explained using numerical simulations.

Diode-pumped passively mode-locked Nd:YVO4 laser at 1342 nm with periodically poled LiNbO3

In this Letter, we demonstrate a nonlinear-mirror (NLM) mode-locked diode-pumped solid-state Nd:YVO4 laser operating at 1342 nm, in which the NLM comprises a periodically poled LiNbO3 crystal and a dichroic mirror. The self-starting threshold for cw mode locking is 1.5 W, which is significantly lower than that of saturable absorber mode locking. An average power of 1.52 W at 1342 nm is obtained under diode pump power of 10 W at 808 nm, with the slope efficiency being up to 16.8%. The pulse width and the repetition rate of the mode-locked laser output are about 9.5 ps and 101 MHz, respectively.

First report of the house fly larvae, Musca domestica (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Muscidae) associated with the monkey carcass in Malaysia

A study on insect succession of monkey carcass in a forested area in Ulu Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia was conducted from 9 May to 18 June 2007. The third instar of the housefly, Musca domestica (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Muscidae) were only found on dry stage of a decomposed (Day-33) monkey carcass (Macaca fascicularis Raffles). This observation revealed that M. domestica maggots were found together with other muscid fly maggots, Hydrotaea (=Ophyra) spinigera (Stein) (Diptera: Muscidae) on dry stage of a carcass. However, the role of M. domestica on forensic entomological study remains unknown. This study recorded the first finding of M. domestica maggots on primate carcass in Malaysia.

Relativistic quasimonoenergetic positron jets from intense laser-solid interactions

Detailed angle and energy resolved measurements of positrons ejected from the back of a gold target that was irradiated with an intense picosecond duration laser pulse reveal that the positrons are ejected in a collimated relativistic jet. The laser-positron energy conversion efficiency is ∼2×10{-4}. The jets have ∼20 degree angular divergence and the energy distributions are quasimonoenergetic with energy of 4 to 20 MeV and a beam temperature of ∼1  MeV. The sheath electric field on the surface of the target is shown to determine the positron energy. The positron angular and energy distribution is controlled by varying the sheath field, through the laser conditions and target geometry.