Wayne Melrose - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Wayne Melrose

However, in many infections the effect on the lymphatics may be both consistent and clinically ma... more However, in many infections the effect on the lymphatics may be both consistent and clinically marked. The lymphadenopathy may be local or generalized and lymphadenopathy is or can be a significant feature of acute HIV infection, primary Herpes simplex, some rickettsial infections, tularaemia, plague, cat-scratch fever due to Bartonella henselae, primary syphilis, lymphogranuloma venereum, chancroid, leptospirosis, brucellosis, relapsing fever, African

To investigate whether Australian soldiers were exposed to filarial parasites that cause lymphati... more To investigate whether Australian soldiers were exposed to filarial parasites that cause lymphatic filariasis during a 6-month deployment to Timor-Leste, antifilarial antibody levels were measured in 907 soldiers using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Initial testing using Dirofilaria immitis antigen demonstrated that 49 of 907 (5.4%) soldiers developed antifilarial antibodies of the IgG1 subclass after deployment, whereas 1 of

Filaria journal, 2007

Sustainable and equitable health programmes require a grounded understanding of the context in wh... more Sustainable and equitable health programmes require a grounded understanding of the context in which they are being implemented. This socio-cultural understanding is pivotal for effective delivery of elimination programmes. Standardised valid methods are needed for gathering authentic socio-cultural insights. The currently recommended protocol for collecting Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) related socio-cultural data, while moving in the right direction, is inadequate. To collect data which provides an understanding of local health beliefs and practices, and communities' understanding of LF, techniques must be developed that are both valid and time efficient. An approach developed in the Pacific provides a basic snapshot of socio-cultural insights which are crucial to the development of relevant and sustainable health education and elimination programmes. The increasing interest in socio-cultural LF research presents a unique opportunity for coupling socio-cultural and bio-medical und...

Filaria journal, 2006

There is a danger that mass drug administration campaigns may fail to maintain adequate treatment... more There is a danger that mass drug administration campaigns may fail to maintain adequate treatment coverage to achieve lymphatic filariasis elimination. Hence, additional measures to suppress transmission might be needed to ensure the success of the Global Program for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis. Vector control successfully eliminated lymphatic filariasis when implemented alone or with mass drug administration. Challenges to lymphatic filariasis elimination include uncertainty of the exact level and duration of microfilarial suppression required for elimination, the mobility of infected individuals, consistent non-participation of some infected individuals with mass drug administration, the possible development of anti-filarial drug resistance and treatment strategies in areas co-endemic with loasis. Integration of vector control with mass drug administration can address some of these challenges. The potential benefits of vector control would include: (1) the ability to s...

BMC infectious diseases, 2006

The population of Nukufetau, a remote coral atoll island in Tuvalu in the Western Pacific, receiv... more The population of Nukufetau, a remote coral atoll island in Tuvalu in the Western Pacific, received annual mass drug administration (MDA) of diethylcarbamazine and albendazole under the Pacific Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis program in 2001, 2002 and 2003, with the last MDA occurring six months before a cross-sectional survey of the whole population for soil transmitted helminths (STH). A cross-sectional survey in May 2004 recruited 206 residents (35.2% of the population) who provided a single faecal sample that was preserved, concentrated and examined microscopically. Overall prevalence of STH was 69.9%; only hookworm and Trichuris trichiura were diagnosed. Trichuris was present in 68.4% with intensity of infection being light in 56.3%, medium in 11.7% and heavy in 0.5%. Hookworm occurred in 11.7% with intensity of infection 11.2% being light and medium in 0.5%. Twenty individuals (9.7%) had dual infections. The prevalence of Trichuris was constant across all ages while the pr...

International journal of dermatology, 2006

Although head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, are globally prevalent blood-sucking ectoparasites... more Although head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, are globally prevalent blood-sucking ectoparasites, the amount of blood imbibed by head lice has not been determined. This study investigated this parameter, as regular loss of a small quantity of blood may lead to an iron deficiency and anaemia. Adult female lice (66), adult males (46), and nymphs (152) were weighed before and after feeding in groups of 17-109 lice. The average amounts of blood imbibed at a single feed were: adult female louse (0.0001579 ml), adult male (0.0000657 ml) and nymph (0.0000387 ml). Assuming three feeds per day by an average infection of 30 lice (10 females, 10 males, and 10 nymphs), the average child with active pediculosis would loose 0.008 ml of blood per day. This amount of blood loss is of no clinical significance even in iron-deficient children. The most heavily infected child observed with 2657 lice could be expected to loose 0.7 ml/day or 20.8 ml/month, which may be of clinical importance in a child ...

Journal of Parasitology Research, 2012

The Kato Katz method is the most common way of performing worm-egg counts on human faecal samples... more The Kato Katz method is the most common way of performing worm-egg counts on human faecal samples, but it must be done in the field using freshly collected samples. This makes it difficult to use in remote, poorly accessible situations. This paper describes a simple method for egg counts on preserved samples collected in the field and sent to a central location for further processing.

Journal of Parasitology Research, 2010

Demonstration of successful elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) in endemic countries require... more Demonstration of successful elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) in endemic countries requires sensitive diagnostics for accurate definitions of endpoints and future surveillance. There has been interest in complementing available diagnostics with antibody serology testing in children, since negative serology would correspond with cessation of LF transmission. The Filariasis CELISA detects antifilarial IgG 4 and has favourable results with serum samples but field application requires an easier sampling method. Ninety-four paired plasma and filter paper samples were assayed with promising results. The filter paper method resulted in a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 77% when compared to the paired plasma. One hundred and one filter paper samples were assessed for storage effects. Following 10-month storage at −20 • C there was a significant reduction in reactivity (P < .001).

Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, 2011

Background: Salmonella enterica serotype Virchow is the most common cause of invasive nontyphoid ... more Background: Salmonella enterica serotype Virchow is the most common cause of invasive nontyphoid salmonellosis in North Queensland, particularly in infants, but the zoonotic source is unknown. This study aimed at determining (i) the prevalence of the introduced Asian house gecko, Hemidactylus frenatus, in houses in North Queensland and (ii) whether they were a potential source of Salmonella Virchow. Methods: Asian house geckos were collected in a random survey of houses in Townsville, North Queensland. Gut contents underwent microbiological analysis within 2 h of removal using both direct plating and enrichment broth methods. Any organism found to be a presumptive Salmonella spp. was then sent to a reference lab for confirmation of genus/species, serotyping, and phage typing if indicated. Results: One hundred Asian house geckos were collected from 57 houses. Geckos were present in 100% of houses surveyed, and prevalence of Salmonella in large intestinal contents was 7% (95% confidence interval 2, 12%). Three serotypes were found: Virchow (phage type 8), Weltevreden, and an untypable subspecies 1 serotype 11:-:1,7. Conclusion: Since Salmonella Virchow (phage type 8) is associated with invasive disease, the introduced Asian house gecko may play a significant role in the epidemiology of sporadic salmonellosis in places invaded by these peridomestic reptiles. These results justify more detailed epidemiological studies on the role of the Asian house gecko in sporadic salmonellosis and development of evidence-based strategies to decrease this potential zoonotic hazard.

Tropical Medicine & International Health, 2008

Tropical Medicine and International Health, 2006

Trends in Parasitology, 2004

References 1 Belova, L.M. and Kostenko, L.A. (1990) Blastocystis galli sp. n. (Protista: Rhizopod... more References 1 Belova, L.M. and Kostenko, L.A. (1990) Blastocystis galli sp. n. (Protista: Rhizopoda) from the intestine of domestic hens. Parazitologiia 24, 164 -168 2 Belova, L.M. (1991) Blastocystis anatis sp. nov. (Rhizopoda, Lobosea) from Anas platyrhynchos. Zoologicheskii Zhurnal 70, 5 -10 3 Teow, W.L. et al. (1991) A Blastocystis species from the sea-snake, Lapemis hardwickii (serpentes: hydrophiidae). Int. J. Parasitol. 21, 723 -726 4 Belova, L.M. (1995) Blastocystis fauna. Parazitologiia 29, 208 -213 5 Singh, M. et al. (1996) Axenic culture of reptilian Blastocystis isolates in monophasic medium and speciation by karyotypic typing. Parasitol.

Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2000

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2011

Lymphedema related to lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a disabling condition that commonly manifests ... more Lymphedema related to lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a disabling condition that commonly manifests in adolescence. Fifty-three adolescents, 25 LF infected and 28 LF non-infected, in age and sex-matched groups, using the Binax ICT rapid card test for filarial antigen were recruited to the study. None of the participants had overt signs of lymphedema. Lymphedema assessment measures were used to assess lower limb tissue compressibility (tonometry), limb circumference (tape measure), intra-and extra-cellular fluid distribution (bioimpedance) and joint range of motion (goniometry). The mean tonometric measurements from the left, right, and dominant posterior thighs were significantly larger in participants with LF compared to participants who had tested negative for LF (p = 0.005, p = 0.004, and p = 0.003, respectively) indicating increased tissue compressibility in those adolescents with LF. ROC curve analysis to define optimal cut-off of the tonometry measurements indicated that at 3.5, sensitivity of this potential screening test is 100% (95%-CI = 86.3%, 100%) and specificity is 21.4% (95%-CI = 8.3%, 41.0%). It is proposed that this cut-off can be used to indicate tissue change characteristic of LF in an at-risk population of PNG adolescents. Further longitudinal research is required to establish if all those with tissue change subsequently develop lymphedema. However, thigh tonometry to identify early tissue change in LF positive adolescents may enable early intervention to minimize progression of lymphedema and prioritization of limited resources to those at greatest risk of developing lifetime morbidity.

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2012

Successful mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns have brought several countries near the point... more Successful mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns have brought several countries near the point of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) elimination. A diagnostic tool is needed to determine when the prevalence levels have decreased to a point that MDA campaigns can be discontinued without the threat of recrudescence. A six-country study was conducted assessing the performance of seven diagnostic tests, including tests for microfilariae (blood smear, PCR), parasite antigen (ICT, Og4C3) and antifilarial antibody (Bm14, PanLF, Urine SXP). One community survey and one school survey were performed in each country. A total of 8,513 people from the six countries participated in the study, 6,443 through community surveys and 2,070 through school surveys. Specimens from these participants were used to conduct 49,585 diagnostic tests. Each test was seen to have both positive and negative attributes, but overall, the ICT test was found to be 76% sensitive at detecting microfilaremia and 93% specific at identifying individuals negative for both microfilariae and antifilarial antibody; the Og4C3 test was 87% sensitive and 95% specific. We conclude, however, that the ICT should be the primary tool recommended for decision-making about stopping MDAs. As a point-of-care diagnostic, the ICT is relatively inexpensive, requires no laboratory equipment, has satisfactory sensitivity and specificity and can be processed in 10 minutes-qualities consistent with programmatic use. Og4C3 provides a satisfactory laboratory-based diagnostic alternative.

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2011

Globally, 40 million people live with the chronic effects of lymphatic filariasis (LF), making it... more Globally, 40 million people live with the chronic effects of lymphatic filariasis (LF), making it the second leading cause of disability in the world. Despite this, there is limited research into the experiences of people living with the disease. This review summarises the research on the experiences of people living with LF disability. The review highlights the widespread social stigma and oppressive psychological issues that face most people living with LF-related disability. Physical manifestations of LF make daily activities and participation in community life difficult. The findings confirm the need for the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) to support morbidity management activities that address the complex biopsychosocial issues that people living with LF-related disability face.

Journal of Medical Entomology, 2013

The efÞcacy of the BG-Sentinel (BGS) and the BG-Mosquitito (BGM) mosquito traps for sampling popu... more The efÞcacy of the BG-Sentinel (BGS) and the BG-Mosquitito (BGM) mosquito traps for sampling populations of the important Þlariasis and dengue vector Aedes (Stegomyia) polynesiensis (Marks) was evaluated in French Polynesia against human bait collections (HBC) using a modiÞed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention backpack aspirator. Traps were baited with BG-Lure (a combination of lactic acid, ammonia, and caproic acid) or carbon dioxide plus octenol (1-octen-3-ol) known as attractants to aedine mosquitoes. Mosquito sampling was conducted on two typical islands of French Polynesia: the high, volcanic island of Moorea, and the low, coral island (atoll) of Tetiaroa. Sampling efÞcacy was measured in a randomized Latin Square design. Production of carbon dioxide from yeast-sugar fermentation was used as an alternative source of CO 2 because supply via dry ice, gas cylinders, or propane combustion in remote tropical islands is costly and challenging. Although the BGS trap captured the greatest number of Ae. polynesiensis in both island settings, catch rates of BGS or BGM baited with either lure were not signiÞcantly different from that of HBC. On Moorea, the number of collected aedes species in the BGS trap baited with either lure was signiÞcantly greater than the BGM with BG-lure. On Tetiaroa, BGM trapping was severely hampered by damage from rats, and the traps were removed from the study. Our study conÞrms the efÞciency, comparability, and convenience of the BGS trap, a robust and safe alternative to HBC for sampling Aedes mosquitoes in research and surveillance efforts against Þlariasis and arboviruses in the South PaciÞc.

However, in many infections the effect on the lymphatics may be both consistent and clinically ma... more However, in many infections the effect on the lymphatics may be both consistent and clinically marked. The lymphadenopathy may be local or generalized and lymphadenopathy is or can be a significant feature of acute HIV infection, primary Herpes simplex, some rickettsial infections, tularaemia, plague, cat-scratch fever due to Bartonella henselae, primary syphilis, lymphogranuloma venereum, chancroid, leptospirosis, brucellosis, relapsing fever, African

To investigate whether Australian soldiers were exposed to filarial parasites that cause lymphati... more To investigate whether Australian soldiers were exposed to filarial parasites that cause lymphatic filariasis during a 6-month deployment to Timor-Leste, antifilarial antibody levels were measured in 907 soldiers using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Initial testing using Dirofilaria immitis antigen demonstrated that 49 of 907 (5.4%) soldiers developed antifilarial antibodies of the IgG1 subclass after deployment, whereas 1 of

Filaria journal, 2007

Sustainable and equitable health programmes require a grounded understanding of the context in wh... more Sustainable and equitable health programmes require a grounded understanding of the context in which they are being implemented. This socio-cultural understanding is pivotal for effective delivery of elimination programmes. Standardised valid methods are needed for gathering authentic socio-cultural insights. The currently recommended protocol for collecting Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) related socio-cultural data, while moving in the right direction, is inadequate. To collect data which provides an understanding of local health beliefs and practices, and communities' understanding of LF, techniques must be developed that are both valid and time efficient. An approach developed in the Pacific provides a basic snapshot of socio-cultural insights which are crucial to the development of relevant and sustainable health education and elimination programmes. The increasing interest in socio-cultural LF research presents a unique opportunity for coupling socio-cultural and bio-medical und...

Filaria journal, 2006

There is a danger that mass drug administration campaigns may fail to maintain adequate treatment... more There is a danger that mass drug administration campaigns may fail to maintain adequate treatment coverage to achieve lymphatic filariasis elimination. Hence, additional measures to suppress transmission might be needed to ensure the success of the Global Program for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis. Vector control successfully eliminated lymphatic filariasis when implemented alone or with mass drug administration. Challenges to lymphatic filariasis elimination include uncertainty of the exact level and duration of microfilarial suppression required for elimination, the mobility of infected individuals, consistent non-participation of some infected individuals with mass drug administration, the possible development of anti-filarial drug resistance and treatment strategies in areas co-endemic with loasis. Integration of vector control with mass drug administration can address some of these challenges. The potential benefits of vector control would include: (1) the ability to s...

BMC infectious diseases, 2006

The population of Nukufetau, a remote coral atoll island in Tuvalu in the Western Pacific, receiv... more The population of Nukufetau, a remote coral atoll island in Tuvalu in the Western Pacific, received annual mass drug administration (MDA) of diethylcarbamazine and albendazole under the Pacific Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis program in 2001, 2002 and 2003, with the last MDA occurring six months before a cross-sectional survey of the whole population for soil transmitted helminths (STH). A cross-sectional survey in May 2004 recruited 206 residents (35.2% of the population) who provided a single faecal sample that was preserved, concentrated and examined microscopically. Overall prevalence of STH was 69.9%; only hookworm and Trichuris trichiura were diagnosed. Trichuris was present in 68.4% with intensity of infection being light in 56.3%, medium in 11.7% and heavy in 0.5%. Hookworm occurred in 11.7% with intensity of infection 11.2% being light and medium in 0.5%. Twenty individuals (9.7%) had dual infections. The prevalence of Trichuris was constant across all ages while the pr...

International journal of dermatology, 2006

Although head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, are globally prevalent blood-sucking ectoparasites... more Although head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, are globally prevalent blood-sucking ectoparasites, the amount of blood imbibed by head lice has not been determined. This study investigated this parameter, as regular loss of a small quantity of blood may lead to an iron deficiency and anaemia. Adult female lice (66), adult males (46), and nymphs (152) were weighed before and after feeding in groups of 17-109 lice. The average amounts of blood imbibed at a single feed were: adult female louse (0.0001579 ml), adult male (0.0000657 ml) and nymph (0.0000387 ml). Assuming three feeds per day by an average infection of 30 lice (10 females, 10 males, and 10 nymphs), the average child with active pediculosis would loose 0.008 ml of blood per day. This amount of blood loss is of no clinical significance even in iron-deficient children. The most heavily infected child observed with 2657 lice could be expected to loose 0.7 ml/day or 20.8 ml/month, which may be of clinical importance in a child ...

Journal of Parasitology Research, 2012

The Kato Katz method is the most common way of performing worm-egg counts on human faecal samples... more The Kato Katz method is the most common way of performing worm-egg counts on human faecal samples, but it must be done in the field using freshly collected samples. This makes it difficult to use in remote, poorly accessible situations. This paper describes a simple method for egg counts on preserved samples collected in the field and sent to a central location for further processing.

Journal of Parasitology Research, 2010

Demonstration of successful elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) in endemic countries require... more Demonstration of successful elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) in endemic countries requires sensitive diagnostics for accurate definitions of endpoints and future surveillance. There has been interest in complementing available diagnostics with antibody serology testing in children, since negative serology would correspond with cessation of LF transmission. The Filariasis CELISA detects antifilarial IgG 4 and has favourable results with serum samples but field application requires an easier sampling method. Ninety-four paired plasma and filter paper samples were assayed with promising results. The filter paper method resulted in a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 77% when compared to the paired plasma. One hundred and one filter paper samples were assessed for storage effects. Following 10-month storage at −20 • C there was a significant reduction in reactivity (P < .001).

Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, 2011

Background: Salmonella enterica serotype Virchow is the most common cause of invasive nontyphoid ... more Background: Salmonella enterica serotype Virchow is the most common cause of invasive nontyphoid salmonellosis in North Queensland, particularly in infants, but the zoonotic source is unknown. This study aimed at determining (i) the prevalence of the introduced Asian house gecko, Hemidactylus frenatus, in houses in North Queensland and (ii) whether they were a potential source of Salmonella Virchow. Methods: Asian house geckos were collected in a random survey of houses in Townsville, North Queensland. Gut contents underwent microbiological analysis within 2 h of removal using both direct plating and enrichment broth methods. Any organism found to be a presumptive Salmonella spp. was then sent to a reference lab for confirmation of genus/species, serotyping, and phage typing if indicated. Results: One hundred Asian house geckos were collected from 57 houses. Geckos were present in 100% of houses surveyed, and prevalence of Salmonella in large intestinal contents was 7% (95% confidence interval 2, 12%). Three serotypes were found: Virchow (phage type 8), Weltevreden, and an untypable subspecies 1 serotype 11:-:1,7. Conclusion: Since Salmonella Virchow (phage type 8) is associated with invasive disease, the introduced Asian house gecko may play a significant role in the epidemiology of sporadic salmonellosis in places invaded by these peridomestic reptiles. These results justify more detailed epidemiological studies on the role of the Asian house gecko in sporadic salmonellosis and development of evidence-based strategies to decrease this potential zoonotic hazard.

Tropical Medicine & International Health, 2008

Tropical Medicine and International Health, 2006

Trends in Parasitology, 2004

References 1 Belova, L.M. and Kostenko, L.A. (1990) Blastocystis galli sp. n. (Protista: Rhizopod... more References 1 Belova, L.M. and Kostenko, L.A. (1990) Blastocystis galli sp. n. (Protista: Rhizopoda) from the intestine of domestic hens. Parazitologiia 24, 164 -168 2 Belova, L.M. (1991) Blastocystis anatis sp. nov. (Rhizopoda, Lobosea) from Anas platyrhynchos. Zoologicheskii Zhurnal 70, 5 -10 3 Teow, W.L. et al. (1991) A Blastocystis species from the sea-snake, Lapemis hardwickii (serpentes: hydrophiidae). Int. J. Parasitol. 21, 723 -726 4 Belova, L.M. (1995) Blastocystis fauna. Parazitologiia 29, 208 -213 5 Singh, M. et al. (1996) Axenic culture of reptilian Blastocystis isolates in monophasic medium and speciation by karyotypic typing. Parasitol.

Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2000

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2011

Lymphedema related to lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a disabling condition that commonly manifests ... more Lymphedema related to lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a disabling condition that commonly manifests in adolescence. Fifty-three adolescents, 25 LF infected and 28 LF non-infected, in age and sex-matched groups, using the Binax ICT rapid card test for filarial antigen were recruited to the study. None of the participants had overt signs of lymphedema. Lymphedema assessment measures were used to assess lower limb tissue compressibility (tonometry), limb circumference (tape measure), intra-and extra-cellular fluid distribution (bioimpedance) and joint range of motion (goniometry). The mean tonometric measurements from the left, right, and dominant posterior thighs were significantly larger in participants with LF compared to participants who had tested negative for LF (p = 0.005, p = 0.004, and p = 0.003, respectively) indicating increased tissue compressibility in those adolescents with LF. ROC curve analysis to define optimal cut-off of the tonometry measurements indicated that at 3.5, sensitivity of this potential screening test is 100% (95%-CI = 86.3%, 100%) and specificity is 21.4% (95%-CI = 8.3%, 41.0%). It is proposed that this cut-off can be used to indicate tissue change characteristic of LF in an at-risk population of PNG adolescents. Further longitudinal research is required to establish if all those with tissue change subsequently develop lymphedema. However, thigh tonometry to identify early tissue change in LF positive adolescents may enable early intervention to minimize progression of lymphedema and prioritization of limited resources to those at greatest risk of developing lifetime morbidity.

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2012

Successful mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns have brought several countries near the point... more Successful mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns have brought several countries near the point of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) elimination. A diagnostic tool is needed to determine when the prevalence levels have decreased to a point that MDA campaigns can be discontinued without the threat of recrudescence. A six-country study was conducted assessing the performance of seven diagnostic tests, including tests for microfilariae (blood smear, PCR), parasite antigen (ICT, Og4C3) and antifilarial antibody (Bm14, PanLF, Urine SXP). One community survey and one school survey were performed in each country. A total of 8,513 people from the six countries participated in the study, 6,443 through community surveys and 2,070 through school surveys. Specimens from these participants were used to conduct 49,585 diagnostic tests. Each test was seen to have both positive and negative attributes, but overall, the ICT test was found to be 76% sensitive at detecting microfilaremia and 93% specific at identifying individuals negative for both microfilariae and antifilarial antibody; the Og4C3 test was 87% sensitive and 95% specific. We conclude, however, that the ICT should be the primary tool recommended for decision-making about stopping MDAs. As a point-of-care diagnostic, the ICT is relatively inexpensive, requires no laboratory equipment, has satisfactory sensitivity and specificity and can be processed in 10 minutes-qualities consistent with programmatic use. Og4C3 provides a satisfactory laboratory-based diagnostic alternative.

PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 2011

Globally, 40 million people live with the chronic effects of lymphatic filariasis (LF), making it... more Globally, 40 million people live with the chronic effects of lymphatic filariasis (LF), making it the second leading cause of disability in the world. Despite this, there is limited research into the experiences of people living with the disease. This review summarises the research on the experiences of people living with LF disability. The review highlights the widespread social stigma and oppressive psychological issues that face most people living with LF-related disability. Physical manifestations of LF make daily activities and participation in community life difficult. The findings confirm the need for the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) to support morbidity management activities that address the complex biopsychosocial issues that people living with LF-related disability face.

Journal of Medical Entomology, 2013

The efÞcacy of the BG-Sentinel (BGS) and the BG-Mosquitito (BGM) mosquito traps for sampling popu... more The efÞcacy of the BG-Sentinel (BGS) and the BG-Mosquitito (BGM) mosquito traps for sampling populations of the important Þlariasis and dengue vector Aedes (Stegomyia) polynesiensis (Marks) was evaluated in French Polynesia against human bait collections (HBC) using a modiÞed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention backpack aspirator. Traps were baited with BG-Lure (a combination of lactic acid, ammonia, and caproic acid) or carbon dioxide plus octenol (1-octen-3-ol) known as attractants to aedine mosquitoes. Mosquito sampling was conducted on two typical islands of French Polynesia: the high, volcanic island of Moorea, and the low, coral island (atoll) of Tetiaroa. Sampling efÞcacy was measured in a randomized Latin Square design. Production of carbon dioxide from yeast-sugar fermentation was used as an alternative source of CO 2 because supply via dry ice, gas cylinders, or propane combustion in remote tropical islands is costly and challenging. Although the BGS trap captured the greatest number of Ae. polynesiensis in both island settings, catch rates of BGS or BGM baited with either lure were not signiÞcantly different from that of HBC. On Moorea, the number of collected aedes species in the BGS trap baited with either lure was signiÞcantly greater than the BGM with BG-lure. On Tetiaroa, BGM trapping was severely hampered by damage from rats, and the traps were removed from the study. Our study conÞrms the efÞciency, comparability, and convenience of the BGS trap, a robust and safe alternative to HBC for sampling Aedes mosquitoes in research and surveillance efforts against Þlariasis and arboviruses in the South PaciÞc.