AIM: To investigate the serum positive percentage of TT virus (TTV) in patients with chronic hepatitis B or C and the response of the coinfected TTV to interferon (IFN) during IFN therapy for chronic hepatitis B and C...AIM: To investigate the serum positive percentage of TT virus (TTV) in patients with chronic hepatitis B or C and the response of the coinfected TTV to interferon (IFN) during IFN therapy for chronic hepatitis B and C. METHODS: We retrospectively studied the serum samples of 70 patients with chronic hepatitis who had received IFN-alpha therapy from January 1997 to June 2000, which included 40 cases of hepatitis B and 30 hepatitis C. All the patients had been followed up for at least 6 months after the end of IFN therapy. The serum TTV DNA was detected using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) before and every month during the course of IFN treatment. RESULTS: TTV infection was detected in 15% (6/40) of the chronic hepatitis B group and 30% (9/30) of the chronic hepatitis C group. Loss of serum TTV DNA during IFN therapy occurred in 3 of 6 patients (50%) and 6 of 9 (67%) of hepatitis B and C groups, respectively. Seronegativity of TTV was found all during the first month of IFN therapy in the 9 patients. There was no correlation between the seroconversion of TTV and the biochemical changes of the patients. CONCLUSION: TTV is not infrequently coinfected in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C in Taiwan, and more than half of the TTV infections are IFN-sensitive. However, the loss of serum TTV DNA does not affect the clinical course of the patients with chronic hepatitis B or C.展开更多
Although microscopy still remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of malaria, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and PCR assays have been shown to be sensitive and specific. Very few comparative studies have been rep...Although microscopy still remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of malaria, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and PCR assays have been shown to be sensitive and specific. Very few comparative studies have been reported of the three diagnostic methods on the same samples in vulnerable groups. Microscopy, RDTs and PCR assays were used for detection and speciation of Plasmodium falciparum (P)'), Plasmodium malariae (Pm) and Plasmodium ovale (Po) in patients in a rice culture savanna ecotype. Fifty four children and 16 pregnant women presenting with a fever were recruited. Bloods collected was used for thin and thick smears, perform RDTs and spotted blood on filter paper for DNA extraction and performance of a PCR. Mean parasitaemia was 37,619.06 (+ 33,599.04) p/pL and 7,512.5 (+ 12,446.11) p/μL for children and pregnant women, respectively. A total of 87.14% were positive by microscopy, 85.71% by RDTs and 90% by PCR. Distribution of Plasmodium species as identified by PCR was 72.86% Pf/Pm, 11.43% Pf/Pm/Po and 5.43% Pm while 10% were negative. Cohen's Kappa value for PCR and RDTs was K = 0.75 (CI = 0.28-1.22) while PCR and microscopy was K = 0.64 (CI = 0.18-1.10). Malaria infection in Bangolan was mostly due to mix infection predominantly P. falciparum/P, malariae.展开更多
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic viral infection that is a serious threat to humans. The disease is widely distributed in Africa, Asia, and Europe and has developed into a serious public health con...Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic viral infection that is a serious threat to humans. The disease is widely distributed in Africa, Asia, and Europe and has developed into a serious public health concern. Humans become infected through the bites of ticks, by contact with a patient with CCHF, or by contact with blood or tissues from viremic livestock. Microvascular instability and impaired hemostasis are the hallmarks of the infection. Infection in human begins with nonspecific febrile symptoms, but may progress to a serious hemorrhagic syndrome with high mortality rates. Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are the most used and specific tests for the diagnosis. The mainstay of treatment is supportive. Although definitive studies are not available, ribavirin is suggested to be effective especially at the earlier phase of the infection. Uses of universal protective measures are the best way to avoid the infection. In this review, all aspects of CCHF are overviewed in light of the current literature.展开更多
This study estimated pollutant load from Kahuwa micro-catchment into Lake Kivu. The micro-catchment was sampled monthly for a year at six locations to capture the contribution of agricultural land, industries and comm...This study estimated pollutant load from Kahuwa micro-catchment into Lake Kivu. The micro-catchment was sampled monthly for a year at six locations to capture the contribution of agricultural land, industries and commercial blocks. Both wet and dry depositions in terms of TN (total nitrogen) and TP (total phosphorus) were estimated monthly. The level of pollution was estimated using LISEC index and IPO (organic pollution indices). Results show that Kahuwa River micro-catchment is polluted mainly by waste dumping sites and industries within the micro-catchment. The general load to the outlet was respectively about 0.35 tons per year (t/yr) for BODs, 1.9 t/yr for COD, 32.73 t/yr for TP and 224.37 t/yr for TN. Atmospheric deposition of nutrient contributed for about 4% and 18% of TP, 3% and 0.01% of TN during dry and wet deposition, respectively.展开更多
The worldwide incidence and prevalence of cystic echinococcosis have fallen dramatically over the past several decades.Nonetheless,infection with Echinococcus granulosus(E.granulosus)remains a major public health issu...The worldwide incidence and prevalence of cystic echinococcosis have fallen dramatically over the past several decades.Nonetheless,infection with Echinococcus granulosus(E.granulosus)remains a major public health issue in several countries and regions,even in places where it was previously at low levels,as a result of a reduction of control programmes due to economic problems and lack of resources.Geographic distribution differs by country and region depending on the presence in that country of large numbers of nomadic or semi-nomadic sheep and goat flocks that represent the intermediate host of the parasite,and their close contact with the final host,the dog,which mostly provides the transmission of infection to humans.The greatest prevalence of cystic echinococcosis in human and animal hosts is found in countries of the temperate zones,including several parts of Eurasia(the Mediterranean regions,southern and central parts of Russia,central Asia,China),Australia,some parts of America(especially South America)and north and east Africa.Echinococcosis is currently considered an endemic zoonotic disease in the Mediterranean region.The most frequent strain associated with human cystic echinococcosis appears to be the common sheep strain(G1).This strain appears to be widely distributed in all continents.The purpose of this review is to examine the distribution of E.granulosus and the epidemiology of a re-emerging disease such as cystic echinococcosis.展开更多
A simple ultrasound-assisted co-precipitation method was developed to prepare ferroferric oxide/graphene oxide magnetic nanoparticles(Fe_3O_4/CO MNPs).The hysteresis loop of Fe_3O_4/GO MNPs demonstrated that the sampl...A simple ultrasound-assisted co-precipitation method was developed to prepare ferroferric oxide/graphene oxide magnetic nanoparticles(Fe_3O_4/CO MNPs).The hysteresis loop of Fe_3O_4/GO MNPs demonstrated that the sample was typical of superparamagnetic material.The samples were characterized by transmission electron microscope,and it is found that the particles are of small size.The Fe_3O_4/GO MNPs were further used as an adsorbent to remove Rhodamine B.The effects of initial pH of the solution,the dosage of adsorbent,temperature,contact time and the presence of interfering dyes on adsorption performance were investigated as well.The adsorption equilibrium and kinetics data were fitted well with the Freundlich isotherm and the pseudosecond-order kinetic model respectively.The adsorption process followed intra-particle diffusion model with more than one process affecting the adsorption of Rhodamine B.And the adsorption process was endothermic in nature.Furthermore,the magnetic composite with a high adsorption capacity of Rhodamine B could be effectively and simply separated using an external magnetic field.And the used particles could be regenerated and recycled easily.The magnetic composite could find potential applications for the removal of dye pollutants.展开更多
Objective To explore the feasibility and efficacy of lentivirus-mediated co-transfection of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with human vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (hVEGFI65) gene and human...Objective To explore the feasibility and efficacy of lentivirus-mediated co-transfection of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with human vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (hVEGFI65) gene and human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (hBMP2) gene. Methods The hVEGF165 and hBMP2 cDNAs were obtained from human osteosarcoma cell line MG63 and cloned into lentiviral expression vectors designed to co-express the copepod green fluorescent protein (copGFP). The expression lentivector and packaging Plasmid Mix were co-transferred to 293TN cells, which produced the lentivirus carrying hVEGF165 (Lv-VEGF) or hBMP2 ( Lv-BMP) , respectively. MSCs of Wistar rats were co-transfected with Lv-BMP and Lv-VEGF (BMP + VEGF group), or each alone (BMP group and VEGF group), or with no virus ( Control group). The mRNA and protein expressions of hVEGF165 and hBMP2 genes in each group were detected by real-time PCR and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Lentiviral expression vectors carrying hVEGF165 or hBMP2 were correctly constructed and confirmed by restriction endonucleses analysis and DNA sequencing analysis. A transfer efficiency up to 90% was archieved in all the transfected groups detected by the fraction of fluorescent cells using fluorescent microscopy. From the results generated by real-time PCR and ELISA, VEGF165 and BMP2 genes were co-expressed in BMP + VEGF group. No significant difference of BMP2 expression was detected between BMP + VEGF and BMP groups ( P 〉 0. 05). Similarly, there was no significant difference of VEGF165 expression between BMP + VEGF and VEGF groups ( P 〉 0. 05). Conclusion VEGF165 and BMP2 genes were successfully co-expressed in MSCs by lentivirus-mediated co-transfection, which provided a further foundation for the combined gene therapy of bone regeneration.展开更多
AIM: To determine if primary murine colonic epithelial cells (CEC) respond to commensal bacteria and discriminate between different types of bacteria. METHODS: A novel CEC: bacteria co-culture system was used to compa...AIM: To determine if primary murine colonic epithelial cells (CEC) respond to commensal bacteria and discriminate between different types of bacteria. METHODS: A novel CEC: bacteria co-culture system was used to compare the ability of the colonic commensal bacteria, Bacteroides ovatus, E coli(SLF) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) to modulate production of different cytokines (n = 15) by primary CEC. Antibody staining and flow cytometry were used to investigate Toll-like receptor (TLR) expression by CEC directly ex vivo and TLR responsiveness was determined by examining the ability of TLR ligands to influence CEC cytokine production. RESULTS: Primary CEC constitutively expressed functional TLR2 and TLR4. Cultured in complete medium alone, CEC secreted IL-6, MCP-1 and IP-10 the levels of which were significantly increased upon addition of the TLR ligands peptidoglycan (PGN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Exposure to the commensal bacteria induced or up-regulated different patterns of cytokine production and secretion.E coli induced production of MIP-1α/β and p defensin3 whereas B. ovatus and L. rhamnosus exclusively induced MCP-1 and MIP-2α expression, respectively. TNFa, RANTES and MEC were induced or up-regulated in response to some but not all of the bacteria whereas ENA78 and IP-10 were up-regulated in response to all bacteria. Evidence of bacterial interference and suppression of cytokine production was obtained from mixed bacterial: CEC co-cultures. Probiotic LGG suppressed E coli- and B. ovatus-induced cytokine mRNA accumulation and protein secretion. CONCLUSION: These observations demonstrate the ability of primary CEC to respond to and discriminate between different strains of commensal bacteria and identify a mechanism by which probiotic bacteria (LGG) may exert anti-inflammatory effects in vivo.展开更多
In this paper, we construct a model in which the impact of pollution on health is exerted through both direct and indirect channels. The indirect channel is captured by a production func-tion in which the principal he...In this paper, we construct a model in which the impact of pollution on health is exerted through both direct and indirect channels. The indirect channel is captured by a production func-tion in which the principal health-improving factor, income growth, can be realized only in the cost of pollution increase. This model is then tested by the aggregated chronicle disease data in over 78 Chinese counties. Our results show, after attaining the threshold of 8 μg/m2, continuous increase in industrial SO2 emission density will lead the ratio of population suffering chronicle diseases, among which respiratory diseases occupy a significant proportion, to rise. However, owing to technological progress in pollution control activities, the needed SO2 emission to produce one unit of GDP diminishes with time. Therefore, the negative effect from pollution augmentation on public health seems to be recompensed more and more by the positive effect of economic growth.展开更多
More effective environmental pollution control and management are needed due to the increasing environ-mental impacts from a range of human activities and the growing public demands for a better living environment. Ur...More effective environmental pollution control and management are needed due to the increasing environ-mental impacts from a range of human activities and the growing public demands for a better living environment. Urban air pollution is a serious environmental issue that poses adverse impacts on the health of people and the environment in most metropolitan areas. In this paper,we propose a geoinformatics augmented framework of environmental modelling and information sharing for supporting effective urban air pollution control and management. This framework is out-lined in terms of its key components and processes including: 1) an integrated,adaptive network of sensors for envi-ronmental monitoring; 2) a set of distributed,interoperable databases for data management; 3) a set of intelligent,robust algorithms and models for environmental modelling; 4) a set of flexible,efficient user interfaces for data access and in-formation sharing; and 5) a reliable,high capacity,high performance computing and communication infrastructure for integrating and supporting other framework components and processes.展开更多
Aluminum (AI), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr), Molybdenum (Mo), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Caesium (Cs), Barium (Ba), Lead (Pb), Bismuth (Bi...Aluminum (AI), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr), Molybdenum (Mo), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Caesium (Cs), Barium (Ba), Lead (Pb), Bismuth (Bi) and Uranium (U) concentrations were investigated in water samples from fifteen sampling locations in Naviundu river basin, Luano and Ruashi rivers and Luwowoshi spring in Lubumbashi city during February, March and April 2016. Chemical analyses of the samples were carried out using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer. Water pH was determined using a pH-meter and mean pH values ranged from 4.2 to 5.8. The highest mean levels of Al (5,961.954 μg·L^-1), Pb (472.287 μg·L^-1), V (21.014 μg·L^-1), Cr (8.185μg·L^-1), U (4.163μg·L^-1) and Bi (0.012 μg·L^-1) were recorded in Chemaf (Chemicals of Africa) hydrometallurgical plant effluent, those of Mn (29,714.593 μg·L^-1), Sr (374.377μg·L^-1), Cd (11.358μg·L^-1) and Cs (0.107μg·L^-1) in Naviundu river at Cimenkat (Katanga's Cement Factory) exit, those of Fe (14,258.9 μg·L^-1) and Ba (307.641μg·L^-1) in Luano river and those of Ag (2.669 μg·L^-1), Mo (0.559 μg·L^-1) and Sn (0.325 μg·L^-1) were respectively noted in Foire channel, Naviundu river under bridge on Kasenga road and Kalulako river. The concentrations of Cd in Naviundu river at Cimenkat exit (11.358 μg·L^-1), Chemaf bydrometallurgical plant effluent (9.697μg·L^-1), Naviundu river under bridge on De Plaines Avenue (6.95 μg·L^-1) and Kalulako river (3.229 μg·L^-1), Pb concentrations in Chemaf hydrometallurgical plant effluent (472.287 μg·L^-1) as well as the AI, Fe and Mn concentrations recorded in most waters in this study exceeded the WHO (World Health Organization) maximum permissible limits for drinking water. The metal contamination of waters of the studied rivers, channel and spring might be partially attributed to natural processes, unplanned urbanization and poor waste management, and mostly to abandoned and ongoing mining and ore processing activities in Lubumbashi city.展开更多
Arsenic (As), Barium (Ba), Cadmium (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn) concentrations were investigated in sediments collected from six...Arsenic (As), Barium (Ba), Cadmium (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn) concentrations were investigated in sediments collected from sixteen sampling sites in the Lubumbashi river basin and five sites in Kafubu, Kimilolo and Kinkalabwamba rivers during February, March and April 2016. Analyses of the samples were carried out using a portable X-RFS (X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer). Water pH and OM (Organic Matter) content of the sediments were also determined. Trace metal toxicity risk to aquatic organisms was assessed using SQGs (Sediment Quality Guidelines)---TELs (Threshold Effect Levels) and PELs (Probable Effect Levels)---for freshwater sediments. Mean values ofpH and OM ranged from 4.2 to 7.8 and from 1.27% to 6.22%, respectively. The highest mean levels of trace metals in sediments were 5,438 mg·kg-1·dw and 902.5 mg·kg-1·dw for Cu and Co, respectively in Lubumbashi river 1.45 kilometer downward the Lubumbashi Slag heap, 1,534.5 mg·kg-1·dw and 342 mg·kg-1·dwdw for Zn and Pb, respectively at the confluence of Lubumbashi and Kafubu rivers, 108,900 mg·kg-1·dw, 547 mg·kg-1·dw and 174.5 mg·kg-1·dw for Fe, Ba and Cr, respectively in Kinkalabwamba river, 531 mg·kg-1·dw and 22 mg-kgl'dw for Mn and Cd, respectively in Kimilolo river, and 37 mg·kg-1·dw for As at the confluence of Tshondo and Lubumbashi rivers. The mean concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn in the sediments exceeded the corresponding SQGs' PELvalues and could have adverse effects on aquatic organisms of those rivers. Trace metal contamination of the studied sediments might he partially attributed to natural processes, unplanned urbanization and poor waste management and mostly to abandoned and ongoing mining and ore processing activities in Lubumbashi city.展开更多
Badung River in the Denpasar city of Bali Province, Indonesia, faces many challenging issues recently. As a common pool resource, the river has been under pressure from many activities including household activities w...Badung River in the Denpasar city of Bali Province, Indonesia, faces many challenging issues recently. As a common pool resource, the river has been under pressure from many activities including household activities which dump household wastes, and pollution externalities arising from dyeing and screen-printing of fabric industries. Conventional approach to control the pollution might not be effective since it will end up in zero sum game. This paper attempts to explore the role of traditional institituion in managing common pool resource such as controlling river pollution. This research is aimed to know the effectiveness of traditional law on managing pollution of printing and dyeing industries on this big river. Survey method was used for collecting primary data and then the data was analyzed by ordinal regression to determine the effect of internal and external factors which influence the intensity of pollution. The result indicates that even though traditional might help to influence household and industry's decision making, it might not sufficient enough to reduce the pollution of the river. Other factors are influencing the waste management, such as level of waste management knowledge of the entrepreneur, the attitude of the entrepreneur toward public program especially on waste and pollution management, the financial support, and the education level of government supervision. Furthermore, Government of Denpasar City need to arrange policy that giving incentive to businessman who handling waste properly and also giving reward to traditional organization who implementing local wisdom and norm to control river pollution strictly.展开更多
The demands of increasing population coupled with the desire of most people for a higher material standard of living are resulting in worldwide increasing pollution on a massive scale. In some cases, pollution is a cl...The demands of increasing population coupled with the desire of most people for a higher material standard of living are resulting in worldwide increasing pollution on a massive scale. In some cases, pollution is a clear-cut phenomenon (e.g., emissions from an old industrial plant). Sometimes it is difficult to be identified (e.g., microbial pollution) and in others lies largely in the eyes of the beholder (e.g., noise pollution). Outdoor air pollutants are contaminants which are present in the ambient air and have detrimental effects on human health or upon its environment. The aim of this literature review study is the comprehensive presentation of the major pollutants, which are commonly determined in studies in urban environment, as well as emerging pollutants with important impact in human health. The sources, the sampling and monitoring methods of these pollutants are discussed. In addition, this study contains critical up to date legislation issues concerning environmental pollution coming from these contaminants and, finally, their impact on public health.展开更多
Concentrations of fifteen trace metals including Aluminum (Al), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr), Molybdenum (Mo), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Caesium...Concentrations of fifteen trace metals including Aluminum (Al), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr), Molybdenum (Mo), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Caesium (Cs), Barium (Ba), Lead (Pb), Bismuth (Bi) and Uranium (U) were investigated in water samples collected from sixteen sampling locations in the Lubumbashi river basin and five locations in Kafubu, Kimilolo and Kinkalabwamba rivers during February, March and April 2016. Chemical analyses of the samples were carried out using ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer). Water pH was determined using a pH-meter and pH values ranged from 4.2 to 7.8. The highest mean trace metal levels of water were 5,515.816 )μg·L^-1, 166.925μg·L^-1, 3.898μg·L^-1 and 1.879μg·L^-1 for Al, Ba, Cr and U, respectively in Kashobwe river, 2,419.522 μg·L^-1 and 17.994 μg·L^-1 for Fe and Cd, respectively in Kafubu river at its confluence with Lubumbashi rivers, 1,408.136μg·L^-1 for Mn in Kafubu river 1.36 kilometer downward its confluence with Naviundu river, 222.406 μg·L^-1 and 0.092 μg·L^-1 for Sr and Cs, respectively in Kamalondo river 60 meters from the GCM-Lubumbashi (General of Quarries and Mines-Lubumbashi) smelter, 140.294μg·L^-1, 12.063 μg·L^-1 and 0.008μg·L^-1 for Pb, V and Bi, respectively in Munua river, 3.544 μg·L^-1 for Ag in Kabulameshi river, 1.49 μg·L^-1 for Mo in Kafubu river and 0.081μg·L^-1 for Sn in Tshondo river. The mean concentrations of Al, Cd, Fe, Mn and Pb in water of many rivers and the channel exceeded the maximum admissible limits of the WHO (World Health Organization), USEPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) and EU (European Union) drinking-water standards. Trace metal contamination of water of the studied rivers, channel and springs might be partially attributed to natural processes, unplanned urbanization, poor waste management and mostly to abandoned and ongoing mining and ore processing activities in Lubumbashi city.展开更多
文摘AIM: To investigate the serum positive percentage of TT virus (TTV) in patients with chronic hepatitis B or C and the response of the coinfected TTV to interferon (IFN) during IFN therapy for chronic hepatitis B and C. METHODS: We retrospectively studied the serum samples of 70 patients with chronic hepatitis who had received IFN-alpha therapy from January 1997 to June 2000, which included 40 cases of hepatitis B and 30 hepatitis C. All the patients had been followed up for at least 6 months after the end of IFN therapy. The serum TTV DNA was detected using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) before and every month during the course of IFN treatment. RESULTS: TTV infection was detected in 15% (6/40) of the chronic hepatitis B group and 30% (9/30) of the chronic hepatitis C group. Loss of serum TTV DNA during IFN therapy occurred in 3 of 6 patients (50%) and 6 of 9 (67%) of hepatitis B and C groups, respectively. Seronegativity of TTV was found all during the first month of IFN therapy in the 9 patients. There was no correlation between the seroconversion of TTV and the biochemical changes of the patients. CONCLUSION: TTV is not infrequently coinfected in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C in Taiwan, and more than half of the TTV infections are IFN-sensitive. However, the loss of serum TTV DNA does not affect the clinical course of the patients with chronic hepatitis B or C.
文摘Although microscopy still remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of malaria, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and PCR assays have been shown to be sensitive and specific. Very few comparative studies have been reported of the three diagnostic methods on the same samples in vulnerable groups. Microscopy, RDTs and PCR assays were used for detection and speciation of Plasmodium falciparum (P)'), Plasmodium malariae (Pm) and Plasmodium ovale (Po) in patients in a rice culture savanna ecotype. Fifty four children and 16 pregnant women presenting with a fever were recruited. Bloods collected was used for thin and thick smears, perform RDTs and spotted blood on filter paper for DNA extraction and performance of a PCR. Mean parasitaemia was 37,619.06 (+ 33,599.04) p/pL and 7,512.5 (+ 12,446.11) p/μL for children and pregnant women, respectively. A total of 87.14% were positive by microscopy, 85.71% by RDTs and 90% by PCR. Distribution of Plasmodium species as identified by PCR was 72.86% Pf/Pm, 11.43% Pf/Pm/Po and 5.43% Pm while 10% were negative. Cohen's Kappa value for PCR and RDTs was K = 0.75 (CI = 0.28-1.22) while PCR and microscopy was K = 0.64 (CI = 0.18-1.10). Malaria infection in Bangolan was mostly due to mix infection predominantly P. falciparum/P, malariae.
文摘Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic viral infection that is a serious threat to humans. The disease is widely distributed in Africa, Asia, and Europe and has developed into a serious public health concern. Humans become infected through the bites of ticks, by contact with a patient with CCHF, or by contact with blood or tissues from viremic livestock. Microvascular instability and impaired hemostasis are the hallmarks of the infection. Infection in human begins with nonspecific febrile symptoms, but may progress to a serious hemorrhagic syndrome with high mortality rates. Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are the most used and specific tests for the diagnosis. The mainstay of treatment is supportive. Although definitive studies are not available, ribavirin is suggested to be effective especially at the earlier phase of the infection. Uses of universal protective measures are the best way to avoid the infection. In this review, all aspects of CCHF are overviewed in light of the current literature.
文摘This study estimated pollutant load from Kahuwa micro-catchment into Lake Kivu. The micro-catchment was sampled monthly for a year at six locations to capture the contribution of agricultural land, industries and commercial blocks. Both wet and dry depositions in terms of TN (total nitrogen) and TP (total phosphorus) were estimated monthly. The level of pollution was estimated using LISEC index and IPO (organic pollution indices). Results show that Kahuwa River micro-catchment is polluted mainly by waste dumping sites and industries within the micro-catchment. The general load to the outlet was respectively about 0.35 tons per year (t/yr) for BODs, 1.9 t/yr for COD, 32.73 t/yr for TP and 224.37 t/yr for TN. Atmospheric deposition of nutrient contributed for about 4% and 18% of TP, 3% and 0.01% of TN during dry and wet deposition, respectively.
文摘The worldwide incidence and prevalence of cystic echinococcosis have fallen dramatically over the past several decades.Nonetheless,infection with Echinococcus granulosus(E.granulosus)remains a major public health issue in several countries and regions,even in places where it was previously at low levels,as a result of a reduction of control programmes due to economic problems and lack of resources.Geographic distribution differs by country and region depending on the presence in that country of large numbers of nomadic or semi-nomadic sheep and goat flocks that represent the intermediate host of the parasite,and their close contact with the final host,the dog,which mostly provides the transmission of infection to humans.The greatest prevalence of cystic echinococcosis in human and animal hosts is found in countries of the temperate zones,including several parts of Eurasia(the Mediterranean regions,southern and central parts of Russia,central Asia,China),Australia,some parts of America(especially South America)and north and east Africa.Echinococcosis is currently considered an endemic zoonotic disease in the Mediterranean region.The most frequent strain associated with human cystic echinococcosis appears to be the common sheep strain(G1).This strain appears to be widely distributed in all continents.The purpose of this review is to examine the distribution of E.granulosus and the epidemiology of a re-emerging disease such as cystic echinococcosis.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(21107143,21207033)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,South-Central University for Nationalities(CZY15003)
文摘A simple ultrasound-assisted co-precipitation method was developed to prepare ferroferric oxide/graphene oxide magnetic nanoparticles(Fe_3O_4/CO MNPs).The hysteresis loop of Fe_3O_4/GO MNPs demonstrated that the sample was typical of superparamagnetic material.The samples were characterized by transmission electron microscope,and it is found that the particles are of small size.The Fe_3O_4/GO MNPs were further used as an adsorbent to remove Rhodamine B.The effects of initial pH of the solution,the dosage of adsorbent,temperature,contact time and the presence of interfering dyes on adsorption performance were investigated as well.The adsorption equilibrium and kinetics data were fitted well with the Freundlich isotherm and the pseudosecond-order kinetic model respectively.The adsorption process followed intra-particle diffusion model with more than one process affecting the adsorption of Rhodamine B.And the adsorption process was endothermic in nature.Furthermore,the magnetic composite with a high adsorption capacity of Rhodamine B could be effectively and simply separated using an external magnetic field.And the used particles could be regenerated and recycled easily.The magnetic composite could find potential applications for the removal of dye pollutants.
基金Supported by Key Program of Shanghai Science and Technology Committee (054119520)
文摘Objective To explore the feasibility and efficacy of lentivirus-mediated co-transfection of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with human vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (hVEGFI65) gene and human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (hBMP2) gene. Methods The hVEGF165 and hBMP2 cDNAs were obtained from human osteosarcoma cell line MG63 and cloned into lentiviral expression vectors designed to co-express the copepod green fluorescent protein (copGFP). The expression lentivector and packaging Plasmid Mix were co-transferred to 293TN cells, which produced the lentivirus carrying hVEGF165 (Lv-VEGF) or hBMP2 ( Lv-BMP) , respectively. MSCs of Wistar rats were co-transfected with Lv-BMP and Lv-VEGF (BMP + VEGF group), or each alone (BMP group and VEGF group), or with no virus ( Control group). The mRNA and protein expressions of hVEGF165 and hBMP2 genes in each group were detected by real-time PCR and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Lentiviral expression vectors carrying hVEGF165 or hBMP2 were correctly constructed and confirmed by restriction endonucleses analysis and DNA sequencing analysis. A transfer efficiency up to 90% was archieved in all the transfected groups detected by the fraction of fluorescent cells using fluorescent microscopy. From the results generated by real-time PCR and ELISA, VEGF165 and BMP2 genes were co-expressed in BMP + VEGF group. No significant difference of BMP2 expression was detected between BMP + VEGF and BMP groups ( P 〉 0. 05). Similarly, there was no significant difference of VEGF165 expression between BMP + VEGF and VEGF groups ( P 〉 0. 05). Conclusion VEGF165 and BMP2 genes were successfully co-expressed in MSCs by lentivirus-mediated co-transfection, which provided a further foundation for the combined gene therapy of bone regeneration.
基金Supported by the USA Public Health Service grants AI-41562 and POI RR12211 (SRC and PF)the Ann Gloag Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh and The Rays of Hope Charitable Trust (JS)
文摘AIM: To determine if primary murine colonic epithelial cells (CEC) respond to commensal bacteria and discriminate between different types of bacteria. METHODS: A novel CEC: bacteria co-culture system was used to compare the ability of the colonic commensal bacteria, Bacteroides ovatus, E coli(SLF) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) to modulate production of different cytokines (n = 15) by primary CEC. Antibody staining and flow cytometry were used to investigate Toll-like receptor (TLR) expression by CEC directly ex vivo and TLR responsiveness was determined by examining the ability of TLR ligands to influence CEC cytokine production. RESULTS: Primary CEC constitutively expressed functional TLR2 and TLR4. Cultured in complete medium alone, CEC secreted IL-6, MCP-1 and IP-10 the levels of which were significantly increased upon addition of the TLR ligands peptidoglycan (PGN) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Exposure to the commensal bacteria induced or up-regulated different patterns of cytokine production and secretion.E coli induced production of MIP-1α/β and p defensin3 whereas B. ovatus and L. rhamnosus exclusively induced MCP-1 and MIP-2α expression, respectively. TNFa, RANTES and MEC were induced or up-regulated in response to some but not all of the bacteria whereas ENA78 and IP-10 were up-regulated in response to all bacteria. Evidence of bacterial interference and suppression of cytokine production was obtained from mixed bacterial: CEC co-cultures. Probiotic LGG suppressed E coli- and B. ovatus-induced cytokine mRNA accumulation and protein secretion. CONCLUSION: These observations demonstrate the ability of primary CEC to respond to and discriminate between different strains of commensal bacteria and identify a mechanism by which probiotic bacteria (LGG) may exert anti-inflammatory effects in vivo.
文摘In this paper, we construct a model in which the impact of pollution on health is exerted through both direct and indirect channels. The indirect channel is captured by a production func-tion in which the principal health-improving factor, income growth, can be realized only in the cost of pollution increase. This model is then tested by the aggregated chronicle disease data in over 78 Chinese counties. Our results show, after attaining the threshold of 8 μg/m2, continuous increase in industrial SO2 emission density will lead the ratio of population suffering chronicle diseases, among which respiratory diseases occupy a significant proportion, to rise. However, owing to technological progress in pollution control activities, the needed SO2 emission to produce one unit of GDP diminishes with time. Therefore, the negative effect from pollution augmentation on public health seems to be recompensed more and more by the positive effect of economic growth.
文摘More effective environmental pollution control and management are needed due to the increasing environ-mental impacts from a range of human activities and the growing public demands for a better living environment. Urban air pollution is a serious environmental issue that poses adverse impacts on the health of people and the environment in most metropolitan areas. In this paper,we propose a geoinformatics augmented framework of environmental modelling and information sharing for supporting effective urban air pollution control and management. This framework is out-lined in terms of its key components and processes including: 1) an integrated,adaptive network of sensors for envi-ronmental monitoring; 2) a set of distributed,interoperable databases for data management; 3) a set of intelligent,robust algorithms and models for environmental modelling; 4) a set of flexible,efficient user interfaces for data access and in-formation sharing; and 5) a reliable,high capacity,high performance computing and communication infrastructure for integrating and supporting other framework components and processes.
文摘Aluminum (AI), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr), Molybdenum (Mo), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Caesium (Cs), Barium (Ba), Lead (Pb), Bismuth (Bi) and Uranium (U) concentrations were investigated in water samples from fifteen sampling locations in Naviundu river basin, Luano and Ruashi rivers and Luwowoshi spring in Lubumbashi city during February, March and April 2016. Chemical analyses of the samples were carried out using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer. Water pH was determined using a pH-meter and mean pH values ranged from 4.2 to 5.8. The highest mean levels of Al (5,961.954 μg·L^-1), Pb (472.287 μg·L^-1), V (21.014 μg·L^-1), Cr (8.185μg·L^-1), U (4.163μg·L^-1) and Bi (0.012 μg·L^-1) were recorded in Chemaf (Chemicals of Africa) hydrometallurgical plant effluent, those of Mn (29,714.593 μg·L^-1), Sr (374.377μg·L^-1), Cd (11.358μg·L^-1) and Cs (0.107μg·L^-1) in Naviundu river at Cimenkat (Katanga's Cement Factory) exit, those of Fe (14,258.9 μg·L^-1) and Ba (307.641μg·L^-1) in Luano river and those of Ag (2.669 μg·L^-1), Mo (0.559 μg·L^-1) and Sn (0.325 μg·L^-1) were respectively noted in Foire channel, Naviundu river under bridge on Kasenga road and Kalulako river. The concentrations of Cd in Naviundu river at Cimenkat exit (11.358 μg·L^-1), Chemaf bydrometallurgical plant effluent (9.697μg·L^-1), Naviundu river under bridge on De Plaines Avenue (6.95 μg·L^-1) and Kalulako river (3.229 μg·L^-1), Pb concentrations in Chemaf hydrometallurgical plant effluent (472.287 μg·L^-1) as well as the AI, Fe and Mn concentrations recorded in most waters in this study exceeded the WHO (World Health Organization) maximum permissible limits for drinking water. The metal contamination of waters of the studied rivers, channel and spring might be partially attributed to natural processes, unplanned urbanization and poor waste management, and mostly to abandoned and ongoing mining and ore processing activities in Lubumbashi city.
文摘Arsenic (As), Barium (Ba), Cadmium (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn) concentrations were investigated in sediments collected from sixteen sampling sites in the Lubumbashi river basin and five sites in Kafubu, Kimilolo and Kinkalabwamba rivers during February, March and April 2016. Analyses of the samples were carried out using a portable X-RFS (X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer). Water pH and OM (Organic Matter) content of the sediments were also determined. Trace metal toxicity risk to aquatic organisms was assessed using SQGs (Sediment Quality Guidelines)---TELs (Threshold Effect Levels) and PELs (Probable Effect Levels)---for freshwater sediments. Mean values ofpH and OM ranged from 4.2 to 7.8 and from 1.27% to 6.22%, respectively. The highest mean levels of trace metals in sediments were 5,438 mg·kg-1·dw and 902.5 mg·kg-1·dw for Cu and Co, respectively in Lubumbashi river 1.45 kilometer downward the Lubumbashi Slag heap, 1,534.5 mg·kg-1·dw and 342 mg·kg-1·dwdw for Zn and Pb, respectively at the confluence of Lubumbashi and Kafubu rivers, 108,900 mg·kg-1·dw, 547 mg·kg-1·dw and 174.5 mg·kg-1·dw for Fe, Ba and Cr, respectively in Kinkalabwamba river, 531 mg·kg-1·dw and 22 mg-kgl'dw for Mn and Cd, respectively in Kimilolo river, and 37 mg·kg-1·dw for As at the confluence of Tshondo and Lubumbashi rivers. The mean concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn in the sediments exceeded the corresponding SQGs' PELvalues and could have adverse effects on aquatic organisms of those rivers. Trace metal contamination of the studied sediments might he partially attributed to natural processes, unplanned urbanization and poor waste management and mostly to abandoned and ongoing mining and ore processing activities in Lubumbashi city.
文摘Badung River in the Denpasar city of Bali Province, Indonesia, faces many challenging issues recently. As a common pool resource, the river has been under pressure from many activities including household activities which dump household wastes, and pollution externalities arising from dyeing and screen-printing of fabric industries. Conventional approach to control the pollution might not be effective since it will end up in zero sum game. This paper attempts to explore the role of traditional institituion in managing common pool resource such as controlling river pollution. This research is aimed to know the effectiveness of traditional law on managing pollution of printing and dyeing industries on this big river. Survey method was used for collecting primary data and then the data was analyzed by ordinal regression to determine the effect of internal and external factors which influence the intensity of pollution. The result indicates that even though traditional might help to influence household and industry's decision making, it might not sufficient enough to reduce the pollution of the river. Other factors are influencing the waste management, such as level of waste management knowledge of the entrepreneur, the attitude of the entrepreneur toward public program especially on waste and pollution management, the financial support, and the education level of government supervision. Furthermore, Government of Denpasar City need to arrange policy that giving incentive to businessman who handling waste properly and also giving reward to traditional organization who implementing local wisdom and norm to control river pollution strictly.
文摘The demands of increasing population coupled with the desire of most people for a higher material standard of living are resulting in worldwide increasing pollution on a massive scale. In some cases, pollution is a clear-cut phenomenon (e.g., emissions from an old industrial plant). Sometimes it is difficult to be identified (e.g., microbial pollution) and in others lies largely in the eyes of the beholder (e.g., noise pollution). Outdoor air pollutants are contaminants which are present in the ambient air and have detrimental effects on human health or upon its environment. The aim of this literature review study is the comprehensive presentation of the major pollutants, which are commonly determined in studies in urban environment, as well as emerging pollutants with important impact in human health. The sources, the sampling and monitoring methods of these pollutants are discussed. In addition, this study contains critical up to date legislation issues concerning environmental pollution coming from these contaminants and, finally, their impact on public health.
文摘Concentrations of fifteen trace metals including Aluminum (Al), Vanadium (V), Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr), Molybdenum (Mo), Silver (Ag), Cadmium (Cd), Tin (Sn), Caesium (Cs), Barium (Ba), Lead (Pb), Bismuth (Bi) and Uranium (U) were investigated in water samples collected from sixteen sampling locations in the Lubumbashi river basin and five locations in Kafubu, Kimilolo and Kinkalabwamba rivers during February, March and April 2016. Chemical analyses of the samples were carried out using ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer). Water pH was determined using a pH-meter and pH values ranged from 4.2 to 7.8. The highest mean trace metal levels of water were 5,515.816 )μg·L^-1, 166.925μg·L^-1, 3.898μg·L^-1 and 1.879μg·L^-1 for Al, Ba, Cr and U, respectively in Kashobwe river, 2,419.522 μg·L^-1 and 17.994 μg·L^-1 for Fe and Cd, respectively in Kafubu river at its confluence with Lubumbashi rivers, 1,408.136μg·L^-1 for Mn in Kafubu river 1.36 kilometer downward its confluence with Naviundu river, 222.406 μg·L^-1 and 0.092 μg·L^-1 for Sr and Cs, respectively in Kamalondo river 60 meters from the GCM-Lubumbashi (General of Quarries and Mines-Lubumbashi) smelter, 140.294μg·L^-1, 12.063 μg·L^-1 and 0.008μg·L^-1 for Pb, V and Bi, respectively in Munua river, 3.544 μg·L^-1 for Ag in Kabulameshi river, 1.49 μg·L^-1 for Mo in Kafubu river and 0.081μg·L^-1 for Sn in Tshondo river. The mean concentrations of Al, Cd, Fe, Mn and Pb in water of many rivers and the channel exceeded the maximum admissible limits of the WHO (World Health Organization), USEPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) and EU (European Union) drinking-water standards. Trace metal contamination of water of the studied rivers, channel and springs might be partially attributed to natural processes, unplanned urbanization, poor waste management and mostly to abandoned and ongoing mining and ore processing activities in Lubumbashi city.