Malaria Journal | All articles

Submit a manuscript Register Contact us Follow
BioMed Central Follow
@malariajournal Support

Explore Malaria Journal

Advertisement

Articles

Supplements

Display/download options Articles per page: 25 | 50 | 100

Display options

Editor's summary Citation

Download options

Send
To

	All
		Research Icacina senegalensis (Icacinaceae), traditionally used for the treatment of malaria, inhibits in vitro Plasmodium falciparum growth without host cell toxicity Serigne O Sarr, Sylvie Perrotey, Ibrahima Fall, Saïd Ennahar, Minjie Zhao, Yérim M Diop, Ermanno Candolfi, Eric Marchioni Malaria Journal 2011, 10:85 (11 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The paper describes a plant used to treat malaria and which is described here for the first time as active in vitro.
		Research Evaluation and pharmacovigilance of projects promoting cultivation and local use of Artemisia annua for malaria Merlin L Willcox, Shelly Burton, Rosalia Oyweka, Rehema Namyalo, Simon Challand, Keith Lindsey Malaria Journal 2011, 10:84 (11 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The debate about the use of herbal preparations of Artemisia annua as anti-malarial therapy is still outstanding, with arguments for and against it. This study interviewed people who are using these preparations in Kenya and Uganda about their experiences in cultivating the plant, and side-effects observed.
		Review Reported reasons for not using a mosquito net when one is available: a review of the published literature Justin Pulford, Manuel W Hetzel, Miranda Bryant, Peter M Siba, Ivo Mueller Malaria Journal 2011, 10:83 (11 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This review highlights a gap in understanding of community perceptions and barriers to the use of bed nets for malaria control and elimination and the lack of empirical research to inform behaviour change communication strategies. The authors importantly recognize the need for programmes to look beyond coverage of bed nets and locally investigate reasons for their non-use if they are to maximize the impact of this key intervention.
		Research Parasitostatic effect of maslinic acid. I. Growth arrest of Plasmodium falciparum intraerythrocytic stages Carlos Moneriz, Patricia Marín-García, Andrés García-Granados, José M Bautista, Amalia Diez, Antonio Puyet Malaria Journal 2011, 10:82 (10 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The effect of maslinic acid is compared with know antimalarial as chloroquine and atovaquone. The maslinic acid inhibits maturation throughout the intraerythrocytic cycle and inhibiting merozoite egression. These effects have previously been described on other apicomplexan parasites. The compound does not appear to be particularly potent and has an unpromising selectivity index of less than 10 compared to human cells.
		Research A longitudinal study on Anopheles mosquito larval abundance in distinct geographical and environmental settings in western Kenya Susan S Imbahale, Krijn P Paaijmans, Wolfgang R Mukabana, Ron van Lammeren, Andrew K Githeko, Willem Takken Malaria Journal 2011, 10:81 (10 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This two-year longitudinal mosquito larval ecology study at three sites in western Kenya provides a detailed account of the natural history of malaria vector populations in relation to larval habitats and mosquito production relative to weather data. Few such detailed longitudinal field studies have been done, as most studies of larval ecology are cross-sectional and time-limited.
		Research Increased proportions of outdoor feeding among residual malaria vector populations following increased use of insecticide-treated nets in rural Tanzania Tanya L Russell, Nicodem J Govella, Salum Azizi, Christopher J Drakeley, S Patrick Kachur, Gerry F Killeen Malaria Journal 2011, 10:80 (9 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Summarizes long-term studies of certain aspects of the population behaviour and structure of malaria vectors in a region of Tanzania where bed net use was variable over time.
		Research Plasmodium falciparum msp1, msp2 and glurp allele frequency and diversity in sub-Saharan Africa Felista Mwingira, Gamba Nkwengulila, Sonja Schoepflin, Deborah Sumari, Hans-Peter Beck, Georges Snounou, Ingrid Felger, Piero Olliaro, Kefas Mugittu Malaria Journal 2011, 10:79 (6 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The allele frequencies and diversity of three genetic markers were studied within antimalarial drug trials in five sub-Saharan countries. The aim was to establish whether the overall genetic diversity of these markers in these respective sites affected the classification of parasites detected during follow up, ie as being recrudescent parasites from the original infection or new infections.
		Research Users' and health service providers' perception on quality of laboratory malaria diagnosis in Tanzania Yahya A Derua, Deus RS Ishengoma, Rwehumbiza T Rwegoshora, Filemoni Tenu, Julius J Massaga, Leonard EG Mboera, Stephen M Magesa Malaria Journal 2011, 10:78 (6 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The study addresses an important topic about which little is known. Laboratory performance is even more important as recent WHO guidelines now recommend parasitological diagnosis of malaria at all levels of the health system.
		Research Genetic variation of TLR-4, TLR-9 and TIRAP genes in Iranian malaria patients Sedigheh Zakeri, Sakineh Pirahmadi, Akram A Mehrizi, Navid D Djadid Malaria Journal 2011, 10:77 (4 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Interesting study, analysing SNPs in the genes encoding TLR4, TLR9 and TIRAP in relation to malaria in an Iranian population.
		Research Malaria diagnostic testing and treatment practices in three different Plasmodium falciparum transmission settings in Tanzania: before and after a government policy change Guido JH Bastiaens, Erik Schaftenaar, Arnold Ndaro, Monique Keuter, Teun Bousema, Seif A Shekalaghe Malaria Journal 2011, 10:76 (2 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Prior to policy change, there was no evident association between the actual level of transmission intensity and drug-prescribing behaviour. After policy change, there was a substantial decrease in anti-malarial prescription and the proportion of parasite-negative individuals who received anti-malarials decreased from 89.1% to 38.7% in one site and from 76.9% to 10.0% in another.
		Research Prevalence of molecular markers of anti-malarial drug resistance in Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum in two districts of Nepal Samir Ranjitkar, Mette L Schousboe, Thomas Thomsen, Madhav Adhikari, Christian MO Kapel, Ib C Bygbjerg, Michael Alifrangis Malaria Journal 2011, 10:75 (1 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary There are few SNP-based drug resistance prevalence studies from this part od the world: it shows a high level of resistance of P. falciparum to SP, which justifies a switch to ACT as first-line treatment; in contrast, there is a very low level of resistance of P. vivax to chloroquine and SP.
		Methodology Simple flow cytometric detection of haemozoin containing leukocytes and erythrocytes for research on diagnosis, immunology and drug sensitivity testing Rosangela Frita, Maria Rebelo, Ana Pamplona, Ana M Vigario, Maria M Mota, Martin P Grobusch, Thomas Hänscheid Malaria Journal 2011, 10:74 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Paper describes the modification of a widely available flow cytometer to detect both leukocytes and red blood cells containing haemozoin. The approach can successfully detect haemozoin in both monocytes and granulocytes, in a patient’s blood and in P. berghei-infected mice.
		Methodology Design, implementation and evaluation of a national campaign to distribute nine million free LLINs to children under five years of age in Tanzania Kimberly Bonner, Alex Mwita, Peter D McElroy, Susan Omari, Ally Mzava, Christian Lengeler, Naomi Kaspar, Rose Nathan, Joyce Ngegba, Romanus Mtung'e, Nick Brown Malaria Journal 2011, 10:73 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary A timely paper and an important contribution to the LLIN distribution literature: discussion of key issues often ignored in other post-campaign analyses.
		Research Malaria associated symptoms in pregnant women followed-up in Benin Bich-Tram Huynh, Nadine Fievet, Gildas Gbaguidi, Sophie Borgella, Blaise Mévo, Achille Massougbodji, Philippe Deloron, Michel Cot Malaria Journal 2011, 10:72 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A paper presenting important data on malaria morbidity in a huge cohort of pregnant women participating in a larger trial on malaria in pregnancy. The results confirm the general assumption that in endemic areas infected pregnant women rarely present symptoms and that management based on treatment of symptomatic women would leave infected women untreated.
		Research Plasmodium Cysteine Repeat Modular Proteins 3 and 4 are essential for malaria parasite transmission from the mosquito to the host Bruno Douradinha, Kevin D Augustijn, Sally G Moore, Jai Ramesar, Maria M Mota, Andrew P Waters, Chris J Janse, Joanne Thompson Malaria Journal 2011, 10:71 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This article follows up on a previous article about the Plasmodium crmp gene family. Here athe authors create pcrmp3 and 4 deletion mutants and show that they are required for Plasmodium transmission: for sporozoite egress from midgut oocysts and for the development of exoerythrocytic schizonts.
		Commentary Intermittent preventive therapy for malaria: arguments in favour of artesunate and sulphamethoxypyrazine - pyrimethamine combination Frans Jansen Malaria Journal 2011, 10:70 (29 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This is an opinion piece on the benefits of using sulphamethoxypyrazine (SMP) instead of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) for the prophylaxis of malaria in endemic countries.
		Research Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection increases Foxp3, IL-10 and IL-2 in CXCL-10 deficient C57BL/6 mice Bismark Y Sarfo, Nana O Wilson, Vincent C Bond, Jonathan K Stiles Malaria Journal 2011, 10:69 (28 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The article continues to explore the underlying factors of dysregulation of the pro-inflammatory response implicated in cerebral malaria, using the mouse model.
		Research Are herders protected by their herds? An experimental analysis of zooprophylaxis against the malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis Iňaki Tirados, Gabriella Gibson, Stephen Young, Stephen J Torr Malaria Journal 2011, 10:68 (24 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This study tackles an interesting and important question regarding the biology of the mosquitoes, Anopheles arabiensis and An. pharoensis, human malaria vectors in Africa. Through a comparative study using various trapping devices and arrangements, the authors provide new insights into the definition of the loosely-understood concept of “anthropophily”.
		Methodology Rapid diagnostic tests as a source of DNA for Plasmodium species-specific real-time PCR Lieselotte Cnops, Merel Boderie, Philippe Gillet, Marjan Van Esbroeck, Jan Jacobs Malaria Journal 2011, 10:67 (24 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The best method to recover DNA from nitrocellulose from RDTs was investigated and then the applicability of this DNA extraction method was assessed on 12 different RDT brands.
		Research Low prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum antigenaemia among asymptomatic HAART-treated adults in an urban cohort in Uganda Damalie Nakanjako, Agnes N Kiragga, Barbara Castelnuovo, Daniel J Kyabayinze, Moses R Kamya Malaria Journal 2011, 10:66 (22 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This paper reports on the cross-sectional screening with a malaria RDT of asymptomatic HIV-positive adults on HAART in the capital city of Uganda, an area of meso-endemic malaria transmission. The authors found a low prevalence of P. falciparum antigenaemia (HRP2-based RDT positivity). They conclude that parasite-based malaria diagnosis should be used in similar populations.
		Research Identification of two new protective pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine antigen candidates Keith Limbach, Joao Aguiar, Kalpana Gowda, Noelle Patterson, Esteban Abot, Martha Sedegah, John Sacci, Thomas Richie Malaria Journal 2011, 10:65 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The authors combine two antigens that are minimally effective for inducing sterile protection in rodents, and achieve a multicomponent vaccine that is modestly effective for inducing sterile protection in their model
		Research Effectiveness of artemether-lumefantrine provided by community health workers in under-five children with uncomplicated malaria in rural Tanzania: an open label prospective study Billy E Ngasala, Maja Malmberg, Anja M Carlsson, Pedro E Ferreira, Max G Petzold, Daniel Blessborn, Yngve Bergqvist, José P Gil, Zul Premji, Andreas Mårtensson Malaria Journal 2011, 10:64 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Provision of artemether-lumefantrine by community health workers for unsupervised malaria treatment at home was highly effective, which provides an evidence base for scaling-up implementation of home-management of malaria using AL in Tanzania.
		Research A phase I trial to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of low-dose methotrexate as an anti-malarial drug in Kenyan adult healthy volunteers Roma Chilengi, Rashid Juma, Ahmed M Abdallah, Mahfudh Bashraheil, Hudson Lodenyo, Priscilla Nyakundi, Evelyn Anabwani, Amina Salim, Gabriel Mwambingu, Ednah Wenwa, Julie Jemutai, Chemtai Kipkeu, George O Oyoo, Simon N Muchohi, Gilbert Kokwaro, Tim Niehues, Trudie Lang, Alexis Nzila Malaria Journal 2011, 10:63 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary An interesting pharmacokinetics study of an old anti-cancer drug, which may be a potentially useful anti-malarial at lower doses
		Research Development of a new version of the Liverpool Malaria Model. II. Calibration and validation for West Africa Volker Ermert, Andreas H Fink, Anne E Jones, Andrew P Morse Malaria Journal 2011, 10:62 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The present study has calibrated an entomological and parasitological validated version of the LMM. For West Africa, the authors have compiled a rich archive of validation data from literature in terms of eleven entomological and parasitological variables. LMM simulations were rated by means of a novel problem-adapted validation procedure, which considers the limited availability of malaria field observations in the area of weather stations.
		Research Randomized controlled trials of malaria intervention trials in Africa, 1948 to 2007: a descriptive analysis Vittoria Lutje, Annette Gerritsen, Nandi Siegfried Malaria Journal 2011, 10:61 (15 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A random sample of 92 confirmed RCTs (from a total of 943 reports obtained between 1948 and 2007) was prepared. Most trials investigated drug treatment in children with uncomplicated malaria. Few trials reported on treatment of severe malaria or on interventions in pregnant women.
		Research PvRON2, a new Plasmodium vivax rhoptry neck antigen Gabriela Arévalo-Pinzón, Hernando Curtidor, Liliana C Patiño, Manuel A Patarroyo Malaria Journal 2011, 10:60 (14 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The identification and partial characterization of the first Plasmodium vivax rhoptry neck protein are described in the present study. This protein is homologous to Plasmodium falciparum RON2, previously been shown to be associated with PfAMA-1, suggesting a similar role for PvRON2.
		Research Knockdown resistance (kdr)-like mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel of a malaria vector Anopheles stephensi and PCR assays for their detection Om P Singh, Cherry L Dykes, Manila Lather, Om P Agrawal, Tridibes Adak Malaria Journal 2011, 10:59 (14 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A paper with information on two kdr mutations in an important malaria vector in India, Anopheles stephensi.
		Research Exposure of the Plasmodium falciparum clonally variant STEVOR proteins on the merozoite surface Ayman Khattab, Seppo Meri Malaria Journal 2011, 10:58 (14 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This paper describes the location of the variant protein STEVOR on the surface of the merozoite, but not the schizont stage, of P falciparum parasites and provides some data support the differential expression of variants throughout the erythrocytic life cycle.
		Research Assessment of global reporting of adverse drug reactions for anti-malarials, including artemisinin-based combination therapy, to the WHO Programme for International Drug Monitoring Andrea Kuemmerle, Alex NO Dodoo, Sten Olsson, Jan Van Erps, Christian Burri, Paul S Lalvani Malaria Journal 2011, 10:57 (9 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| 1 comment \| Editor’s summary A quantitative analysis of the adverse drug events relating to anti-malarials reported into the Uppsala Monitoring Centre’s Vigibase database in the last 40 years. The information presented demonstrates the significant challenges and possibly limited value of implementing spontaneous reporting systems in low income malaria endemic countries.
		Research Artemisinin-induced parasite dormancy: a plausible mechanism for treatment failure Andrea Codd, Franka Teuscher, Dennis E Kyle, Qin Cheng, Michelle L Gatton Malaria Journal 2011, 10:56 (8 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This work aims to test the idea that parasite dormancy can explain the rates of recrudescence observed in clinical studies of patients treated with artemisinin monotherapy, with the model’s parameters for dormancy based on recently published in vitro work.
		Research Effect of HIV infection on the acute antibody response to malaria antigens in children: an observational study Daniel KM Muema, Francis M Ndungu, Samson M Kinyanjui, James A Berkley Malaria Journal 2011, 10:55 (5 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This is an important paper and first evidence of a stunting of the humoral response in children with HIV that may account for the increase in parasitaemia and severe malaria among HIV-infected children who are older than their age and season matched controls.
		Research Temporal correlation analysis between malaria and meteorological factors in Motuo County, Tibet Fang Huang, Shuisen Zhou, Shaosen Zhang, Hongju Wang, Linhua Tang Malaria Journal 2011, 10:54 (4 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The paper describes a series of statistical analysis of a time series of area averaged climate data and malaria data (1986-2009) for Motuo County, Tibet, an area from where little is known of the malaria situation.
		Research Phase I randomized dose-ascending placebo-controlled trials of ferroquine - a candidate anti-malarial drug - in adults with asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infection Ghyslain Mombo-Ngoma, Christian Supan, Matthias P Dal-Bianco, Michel A Missinou, Pierre-Blaise Matsiegui, Carmen L Ospina Salazar, Saadou Issifou, Daniel Ter-Minassian, Michael Ramharter, Maryvonne Kombila, Peter G Kremsner, Bertrand Lell Malaria Journal 2011, 10:53 (1 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary These phase 1 safety trials showed that clinically, ferroquine was generally well-tolerated up to 1,600 mg, in adults with asymptomatic falciparum malaria
		Research Atorvastatin prevents Plasmodium falciparum cytoadherence and endothelial damage Zacharie Taoufiq, Paco Pino, Nadine N'dilimabaka, Issam Arrouss, Serge Assi, Florent Soubrier, Angelita Rebollo, Dominique Mazier Malaria Journal 2011, 10:52 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The issue of severe malaria adjunctive treatment is still an important mater of debate and needs to be addressed using both in vitro and in vivo studies. This paper makes a worthwhile contribution to this field of research.
		Research Stability-indicating HPLC-DAD/UV-ESI/MS impurity profiling of the anti-malarial drug lumefantrine Mathieu Verbeken, Sultan Suleman, Bram Baert, Elien Vangheluwe, Sylvia Van Dorpe, Christian Burvenich, Luc Duchateau, Frans H Jansen, Bart De Spiegeleer Malaria Journal 2011, 10:51 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary A paper with useful information on the quality control of lumefantrine
		Research Safety and efficacy of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine versus artemether-lumefantrine in the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Zambian children Michael Nambozi, Jean-Pierre Van Geertruyden, Sebastian Hachizovu, Mike Chaponda, Doreen Mukwamataba, Modest Mulenga, David Ubben, Umberto D'Alessandro Malaria Journal 2011, 10:50 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary DHA/PQP seems a potential candidate to be used as an alternative first-line or rescue treatment in Zambia.
		Research Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of artesunate and dihydroartemisinin following oral treatment in pregnant women with asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infections in Kinshasa DRC Marie A Onyamboko, Steven R Meshnick, Lawrence Fleckenstein, Matthew A Koch, Joseph Atibu, Victor Lokomba, Macaya Douoguih, Jennifer Hemingway-Foday, David Wesche, Robert W Ryder, Carl Bose, Linda L Wright, Antoinette K Tshefu, Edmund V Capparelli Malaria Journal 2011, 10:49 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary A paper which adds to the extant literature on pharmacokinetics of artesunate in the pregnant population.
		Methodology A real-time, quantitative PCR method using hydrolysis probes for the monitoring of Plasmodium falciparum load in experimentally infected human volunteers Rebecca J Rockett, Sarah J Tozer, Chris Peatey, Seweryn Bialasiewicz, David M Whiley, Michael D Nissen, Katharine Trenholme, James S Mc Carthy, Theo P Sloots Malaria Journal 2011, 10:48 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The results show that the hydrolysis probe rt-qPCR assay is superior to SYBR Green for the quantification of P. falciparum in human blood samples.
		Research Reduced risk for placental malaria in iron deficient women Edward L Senga, Gregory Harper, Gibby Koshy, Peter N Kazembe, Bernard J Brabin Malaria Journal 2011, 10:47 (23 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The influence of iron deficiency on infection risk has been a long-standing clinical concern, with the knowledge that iron supplementation might increase the risk of malaria. This study of malaria in pregnancy showed that women with placental malaria were less likely to have iron deficiency than women without placental malaria infection.
		Research Reductions in malaria and anaemia case and death burden at hospitals following scale-up of malaria control in Zanzibar, 1999-2008 Maru W Aregawi, Abdullah S Ali, Abdul-wahiyd Al-mafazy, Fabrizio Molteni, Samson Katikiti, Marian Warsame, Ritha JA Njau, Ryuichi Komatsu, Eline Korenromp, Mehran Hosseini, Daniel Low-Beer, Anders Bjorkman, Umberto D'Alessandro, Marc Coosemans, Mac Otten Malaria Journal 2011, 10:46 (18 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Scaling-up effective malaria interventions in Zanzibar reduced malaria-related burden at health facilities by over 75% within 5 years. In high-malaria settings, intensified malaria control can substantially contribute to reaching the Millennium Development Goal 4 target of reducing under-five mortality by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015.
		Research District level external quality assurance (EQA) of malaria microscopy in Pakistan: pilot implementation and feasibility Muhammad Khan, John D Walley, Muhammad Munir, Muhammad Khan, Nayyar Khokar, Zarfishan Tahir, Athar Nazir, Nazia Shams Malaria Journal 2011, 10:45 (17 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This paper reports on the early implementation of a district-level external quality assurance programme for malaria microscopy in four districts in Pakistan. Improving malaria microscopy on a programmatic level, and demonstrating the impact of such efforts, is a notable challenge and is of considerable interest to the many stakeholders in public health and malaria control.
		Research Monitoring of clinical efficacy and in vitro sensitivity of Plasmodium vivax to chloroquine in area along Thai Myanmar border during 2009-2010 Poonuch Muhamad, Ronnatrai Ruengweerayut, Wanna Chacharoenkul, Kanchana Rungsihirunrat, Kesara Na-Bangchang Malaria Journal 2011, 10:44 (16 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary While in vivo results suggest that the standard regimen of chloroquine was still very effective for the treatment of vivax malaria in the Thai-Myanmar border area, there is some evidence of a reduced in vitro sensitivity, raise the possibility of resistance in the future.
		Review The first Finnish malariologist, Johan Haartman, and the discussion about malaria in 18th century Turku, Finland Lena Hulden Malaria Journal 2011, 10:43 (15 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The paper deals with Dr. Haartman, a professor in medicine, appointed in Turku, at that time belonging to Finland and now neighbouring the newly Russian part of Karelia. Turku at that time, like Karelia, are known for a relatively high incidence of malaria (mostly Plasmodium vivax and, more rarely, Plasmodium malariae), a situation that persisted into the 1950s, also shared by some northern parts of Russia (Murmansk).
		Research Sequence and gene expression of chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) in the association of in vitro drugs resistance of Plasmodium falciparum Wanna Chaijaroenkul, Stephen A Ward, Mathirut Mungthin, David Johnson, Andrew Owen, Patrick G Bray, Kesara Na-Bangchang Malaria Journal 2011, 10:42 (15 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This article summarizes some interesting new findings on pfcrt sequence variants in 95 Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Thailand. These sequences were compared with drug susceptibility phenotypes. The authors report two novel PfCRT mutations – K76A and E198K, in a background of the SE Asian haplotype.
		Research Evaluating the effectiveness of IPTi on malaria using routine health information from sentinel health centres in southern Tanzania Barbara A Willey, Joanna RM Armstrong Schellenberg, Werner Maokola, Kizito Shirima, Mwajuma Chemba, Hassan Mshinda, Pedro Alonso, Marcel Tanner, David Schellenberg Malaria Journal 2011, 10:41 (14 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The paper describes the IPTi morbidity monitoring study, in which routine health management and information services data was analysed to investigate the effect of IPTi with SP on malaria, anaemia, and all-cause attendance in children aged 2-11 months in 11 health centres in southern Tanzania.
		Research Immunization with different PfAMA1 alleles in sequence induces clonal imprint humoral responses that are similar to responses induced by the same alleles as a vaccine cocktail in rabbits Kwadwo A Kusi, Bart W Faber, Marjolein van der Eijk, Alan W Thomas, Clemens HM Kocken, Edmond J Remarque Malaria Journal 2011, 10:40 (14 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Comparison of the antibody responses induced in rabbits to the P. falciparum vaccine candidate AMA1 using different immunization strategies.
		Research Malaria rapid diagnostic kits: quality of packaging, design and labelling of boxes and components and readability and accuracy of information inserts Philippe Gillet, Jessica Maltha, Veerle Hermans, Raffaella Ravinetto, Cathrien Bruggeman, Jan Jacobs Malaria Journal 2011, 10:39 (13 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This study reports on the characteristics of malaria RDTs that are commercially available in terms of their packaging, labelling and inserts. Clear instructions for end-users may help in the correct use of RDTs and ultimately improve the diagnostic accuracy.
		Research Comparative population structure of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium falciparum under different transmission settings in Malawi Marian C Bruce, Allan Macheso, Alex McConnachie, Malcolm E Molyneux Malaria Journal 2011, 10:38 (11 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This is the first study to investigate the population structure of P. malariae in depth, and performed in a manner which allowed comparison to sympatric P. falciparum infections with well-matched samples.
		Research In vitro susceptibility to quinine and microsatellite variations of the Plasmodium falciparum Na⁺/H⁺exchanger (Pfnhe-1) gene: the absence of association in clinical isolates from the Republic of Congo Sébastien Briolant, Stéphane Pelleau, Hervé Bogreau, Philippe Hovette, Agnès Zettor, Jacky Castello, Eric Baret, Rémy Amalvict, Christophe Rogier, Bruno Pradines Malaria Journal 2011, 10:37 (11 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Investigation of the association between PfNHE polymorphisms and quinine susceptibility in P. falciparum field isolates. In this study, the investigators examine isolates from the Congo and do not find a statistically significant association between DNNND repeats and quinine IC50.
		Research Induction of strain-transcendent antibodies to placental-type isolates with VAR2CSA DBL3 or DBL5 recombinant proteins Marion Avril, Megan M Cartwright, Marianne J Hathaway, Joseph D Smith Malaria Journal 2011, 10:36 (11 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The paper describes the ability of VAR2CSA recombinant proteins produced in Pichia pastoris to elicit strain-transcending antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum placental-type parasite lines.

	All
		Research Icacina senegalensis (Icacinaceae), traditionally used for the treatment of malaria, inhibits in vitro Plasmodium falciparum growth without host cell toxicity Serigne O Sarr, Sylvie Perrotey, Ibrahima Fall, Saïd Ennahar, Minjie Zhao, Yérim M Diop, Ermanno Candolfi, Eric Marchioni Malaria Journal 2011, 10:85 (11 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The paper describes a plant used to treat malaria and which is described here for the first time as active in vitro.
		Research Evaluation and pharmacovigilance of projects promoting cultivation and local use of Artemisia annua for malaria Merlin L Willcox, Shelly Burton, Rosalia Oyweka, Rehema Namyalo, Simon Challand, Keith Lindsey Malaria Journal 2011, 10:84 (11 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The debate about the use of herbal preparations of Artemisia annua as anti-malarial therapy is still outstanding, with arguments for and against it. This study interviewed people who are using these preparations in Kenya and Uganda about their experiences in cultivating the plant, and side-effects observed.
		Review Reported reasons for not using a mosquito net when one is available: a review of the published literature Justin Pulford, Manuel W Hetzel, Miranda Bryant, Peter M Siba, Ivo Mueller Malaria Journal 2011, 10:83 (11 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This review highlights a gap in understanding of community perceptions and barriers to the use of bed nets for malaria control and elimination and the lack of empirical research to inform behaviour change communication strategies. The authors importantly recognize the need for programmes to look beyond coverage of bed nets and locally investigate reasons for their non-use if they are to maximize the impact of this key intervention.
		Research Parasitostatic effect of maslinic acid. I. Growth arrest of Plasmodium falciparum intraerythrocytic stages Carlos Moneriz, Patricia Marín-García, Andrés García-Granados, José M Bautista, Amalia Diez, Antonio Puyet Malaria Journal 2011, 10:82 (10 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The effect of maslinic acid is compared with know antimalarial as chloroquine and atovaquone. The maslinic acid inhibits maturation throughout the intraerythrocytic cycle and inhibiting merozoite egression. These effects have previously been described on other apicomplexan parasites. The compound does not appear to be particularly potent and has an unpromising selectivity index of less than 10 compared to human cells.
		Research A longitudinal study on Anopheles mosquito larval abundance in distinct geographical and environmental settings in western Kenya Susan S Imbahale, Krijn P Paaijmans, Wolfgang R Mukabana, Ron van Lammeren, Andrew K Githeko, Willem Takken Malaria Journal 2011, 10:81 (10 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This two-year longitudinal mosquito larval ecology study at three sites in western Kenya provides a detailed account of the natural history of malaria vector populations in relation to larval habitats and mosquito production relative to weather data. Few such detailed longitudinal field studies have been done, as most studies of larval ecology are cross-sectional and time-limited.
		Research Increased proportions of outdoor feeding among residual malaria vector populations following increased use of insecticide-treated nets in rural Tanzania Tanya L Russell, Nicodem J Govella, Salum Azizi, Christopher J Drakeley, S Patrick Kachur, Gerry F Killeen Malaria Journal 2011, 10:80 (9 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Summarizes long-term studies of certain aspects of the population behaviour and structure of malaria vectors in a region of Tanzania where bed net use was variable over time.
		Research Plasmodium falciparum msp1, msp2 and glurp allele frequency and diversity in sub-Saharan Africa Felista Mwingira, Gamba Nkwengulila, Sonja Schoepflin, Deborah Sumari, Hans-Peter Beck, Georges Snounou, Ingrid Felger, Piero Olliaro, Kefas Mugittu Malaria Journal 2011, 10:79 (6 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The allele frequencies and diversity of three genetic markers were studied within antimalarial drug trials in five sub-Saharan countries. The aim was to establish whether the overall genetic diversity of these markers in these respective sites affected the classification of parasites detected during follow up, ie as being recrudescent parasites from the original infection or new infections.
		Research Users' and health service providers' perception on quality of laboratory malaria diagnosis in Tanzania Yahya A Derua, Deus RS Ishengoma, Rwehumbiza T Rwegoshora, Filemoni Tenu, Julius J Massaga, Leonard EG Mboera, Stephen M Magesa Malaria Journal 2011, 10:78 (6 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The study addresses an important topic about which little is known. Laboratory performance is even more important as recent WHO guidelines now recommend parasitological diagnosis of malaria at all levels of the health system.
		Research Genetic variation of TLR-4, TLR-9 and TIRAP genes in Iranian malaria patients Sedigheh Zakeri, Sakineh Pirahmadi, Akram A Mehrizi, Navid D Djadid Malaria Journal 2011, 10:77 (4 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Interesting study, analysing SNPs in the genes encoding TLR4, TLR9 and TIRAP in relation to malaria in an Iranian population.
		Research Malaria diagnostic testing and treatment practices in three different Plasmodium falciparum transmission settings in Tanzania: before and after a government policy change Guido JH Bastiaens, Erik Schaftenaar, Arnold Ndaro, Monique Keuter, Teun Bousema, Seif A Shekalaghe Malaria Journal 2011, 10:76 (2 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Prior to policy change, there was no evident association between the actual level of transmission intensity and drug-prescribing behaviour. After policy change, there was a substantial decrease in anti-malarial prescription and the proportion of parasite-negative individuals who received anti-malarials decreased from 89.1% to 38.7% in one site and from 76.9% to 10.0% in another.
		Research Prevalence of molecular markers of anti-malarial drug resistance in Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum in two districts of Nepal Samir Ranjitkar, Mette L Schousboe, Thomas Thomsen, Madhav Adhikari, Christian MO Kapel, Ib C Bygbjerg, Michael Alifrangis Malaria Journal 2011, 10:75 (1 April 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary There are few SNP-based drug resistance prevalence studies from this part od the world: it shows a high level of resistance of P. falciparum to SP, which justifies a switch to ACT as first-line treatment; in contrast, there is a very low level of resistance of P. vivax to chloroquine and SP.
		Methodology Simple flow cytometric detection of haemozoin containing leukocytes and erythrocytes for research on diagnosis, immunology and drug sensitivity testing Rosangela Frita, Maria Rebelo, Ana Pamplona, Ana M Vigario, Maria M Mota, Martin P Grobusch, Thomas Hänscheid Malaria Journal 2011, 10:74 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Paper describes the modification of a widely available flow cytometer to detect both leukocytes and red blood cells containing haemozoin. The approach can successfully detect haemozoin in both monocytes and granulocytes, in a patient’s blood and in P. berghei-infected mice.
		Methodology Design, implementation and evaluation of a national campaign to distribute nine million free LLINs to children under five years of age in Tanzania Kimberly Bonner, Alex Mwita, Peter D McElroy, Susan Omari, Ally Mzava, Christian Lengeler, Naomi Kaspar, Rose Nathan, Joyce Ngegba, Romanus Mtung'e, Nick Brown Malaria Journal 2011, 10:73 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary A timely paper and an important contribution to the LLIN distribution literature: discussion of key issues often ignored in other post-campaign analyses.
		Research Malaria associated symptoms in pregnant women followed-up in Benin Bich-Tram Huynh, Nadine Fievet, Gildas Gbaguidi, Sophie Borgella, Blaise Mévo, Achille Massougbodji, Philippe Deloron, Michel Cot Malaria Journal 2011, 10:72 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A paper presenting important data on malaria morbidity in a huge cohort of pregnant women participating in a larger trial on malaria in pregnancy. The results confirm the general assumption that in endemic areas infected pregnant women rarely present symptoms and that management based on treatment of symptomatic women would leave infected women untreated.
		Research Plasmodium Cysteine Repeat Modular Proteins 3 and 4 are essential for malaria parasite transmission from the mosquito to the host Bruno Douradinha, Kevin D Augustijn, Sally G Moore, Jai Ramesar, Maria M Mota, Andrew P Waters, Chris J Janse, Joanne Thompson Malaria Journal 2011, 10:71 (31 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This article follows up on a previous article about the Plasmodium crmp gene family. Here athe authors create pcrmp3 and 4 deletion mutants and show that they are required for Plasmodium transmission: for sporozoite egress from midgut oocysts and for the development of exoerythrocytic schizonts.
		Commentary Intermittent preventive therapy for malaria: arguments in favour of artesunate and sulphamethoxypyrazine - pyrimethamine combination Frans Jansen Malaria Journal 2011, 10:70 (29 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This is an opinion piece on the benefits of using sulphamethoxypyrazine (SMP) instead of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) for the prophylaxis of malaria in endemic countries.
		Research Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection increases Foxp3, IL-10 and IL-2 in CXCL-10 deficient C57BL/6 mice Bismark Y Sarfo, Nana O Wilson, Vincent C Bond, Jonathan K Stiles Malaria Journal 2011, 10:69 (28 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The article continues to explore the underlying factors of dysregulation of the pro-inflammatory response implicated in cerebral malaria, using the mouse model.
		Research Are herders protected by their herds? An experimental analysis of zooprophylaxis against the malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis Iňaki Tirados, Gabriella Gibson, Stephen Young, Stephen J Torr Malaria Journal 2011, 10:68 (24 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This study tackles an interesting and important question regarding the biology of the mosquitoes, Anopheles arabiensis and An. pharoensis, human malaria vectors in Africa. Through a comparative study using various trapping devices and arrangements, the authors provide new insights into the definition of the loosely-understood concept of “anthropophily”.
		Methodology Rapid diagnostic tests as a source of DNA for Plasmodium species-specific real-time PCR Lieselotte Cnops, Merel Boderie, Philippe Gillet, Marjan Van Esbroeck, Jan Jacobs Malaria Journal 2011, 10:67 (24 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The best method to recover DNA from nitrocellulose from RDTs was investigated and then the applicability of this DNA extraction method was assessed on 12 different RDT brands.
		Research Low prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum antigenaemia among asymptomatic HAART-treated adults in an urban cohort in Uganda Damalie Nakanjako, Agnes N Kiragga, Barbara Castelnuovo, Daniel J Kyabayinze, Moses R Kamya Malaria Journal 2011, 10:66 (22 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This paper reports on the cross-sectional screening with a malaria RDT of asymptomatic HIV-positive adults on HAART in the capital city of Uganda, an area of meso-endemic malaria transmission. The authors found a low prevalence of P. falciparum antigenaemia (HRP2-based RDT positivity). They conclude that parasite-based malaria diagnosis should be used in similar populations.
		Research Identification of two new protective pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine antigen candidates Keith Limbach, Joao Aguiar, Kalpana Gowda, Noelle Patterson, Esteban Abot, Martha Sedegah, John Sacci, Thomas Richie Malaria Journal 2011, 10:65 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The authors combine two antigens that are minimally effective for inducing sterile protection in rodents, and achieve a multicomponent vaccine that is modestly effective for inducing sterile protection in their model
		Research Effectiveness of artemether-lumefantrine provided by community health workers in under-five children with uncomplicated malaria in rural Tanzania: an open label prospective study Billy E Ngasala, Maja Malmberg, Anja M Carlsson, Pedro E Ferreira, Max G Petzold, Daniel Blessborn, Yngve Bergqvist, José P Gil, Zul Premji, Andreas Mårtensson Malaria Journal 2011, 10:64 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Provision of artemether-lumefantrine by community health workers for unsupervised malaria treatment at home was highly effective, which provides an evidence base for scaling-up implementation of home-management of malaria using AL in Tanzania.
		Research A phase I trial to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of low-dose methotrexate as an anti-malarial drug in Kenyan adult healthy volunteers Roma Chilengi, Rashid Juma, Ahmed M Abdallah, Mahfudh Bashraheil, Hudson Lodenyo, Priscilla Nyakundi, Evelyn Anabwani, Amina Salim, Gabriel Mwambingu, Ednah Wenwa, Julie Jemutai, Chemtai Kipkeu, George O Oyoo, Simon N Muchohi, Gilbert Kokwaro, Tim Niehues, Trudie Lang, Alexis Nzila Malaria Journal 2011, 10:63 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary An interesting pharmacokinetics study of an old anti-cancer drug, which may be a potentially useful anti-malarial at lower doses
		Research Development of a new version of the Liverpool Malaria Model. II. Calibration and validation for West Africa Volker Ermert, Andreas H Fink, Anne E Jones, Andrew P Morse Malaria Journal 2011, 10:62 (16 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The present study has calibrated an entomological and parasitological validated version of the LMM. For West Africa, the authors have compiled a rich archive of validation data from literature in terms of eleven entomological and parasitological variables. LMM simulations were rated by means of a novel problem-adapted validation procedure, which considers the limited availability of malaria field observations in the area of weather stations.
		Research Randomized controlled trials of malaria intervention trials in Africa, 1948 to 2007: a descriptive analysis Vittoria Lutje, Annette Gerritsen, Nandi Siegfried Malaria Journal 2011, 10:61 (15 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A random sample of 92 confirmed RCTs (from a total of 943 reports obtained between 1948 and 2007) was prepared. Most trials investigated drug treatment in children with uncomplicated malaria. Few trials reported on treatment of severe malaria or on interventions in pregnant women.
		Research PvRON2, a new Plasmodium vivax rhoptry neck antigen Gabriela Arévalo-Pinzón, Hernando Curtidor, Liliana C Patiño, Manuel A Patarroyo Malaria Journal 2011, 10:60 (14 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The identification and partial characterization of the first Plasmodium vivax rhoptry neck protein are described in the present study. This protein is homologous to Plasmodium falciparum RON2, previously been shown to be associated with PfAMA-1, suggesting a similar role for PvRON2.
		Research Knockdown resistance (kdr)-like mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel of a malaria vector Anopheles stephensi and PCR assays for their detection Om P Singh, Cherry L Dykes, Manila Lather, Om P Agrawal, Tridibes Adak Malaria Journal 2011, 10:59 (14 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A paper with information on two kdr mutations in an important malaria vector in India, Anopheles stephensi.
		Research Exposure of the Plasmodium falciparum clonally variant STEVOR proteins on the merozoite surface Ayman Khattab, Seppo Meri Malaria Journal 2011, 10:58 (14 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This paper describes the location of the variant protein STEVOR on the surface of the merozoite, but not the schizont stage, of P falciparum parasites and provides some data support the differential expression of variants throughout the erythrocytic life cycle.
		Research Assessment of global reporting of adverse drug reactions for anti-malarials, including artemisinin-based combination therapy, to the WHO Programme for International Drug Monitoring Andrea Kuemmerle, Alex NO Dodoo, Sten Olsson, Jan Van Erps, Christian Burri, Paul S Lalvani Malaria Journal 2011, 10:57 (9 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| 1 comment \| Editor’s summary A quantitative analysis of the adverse drug events relating to anti-malarials reported into the Uppsala Monitoring Centre’s Vigibase database in the last 40 years. The information presented demonstrates the significant challenges and possibly limited value of implementing spontaneous reporting systems in low income malaria endemic countries.
		Research Artemisinin-induced parasite dormancy: a plausible mechanism for treatment failure Andrea Codd, Franka Teuscher, Dennis E Kyle, Qin Cheng, Michelle L Gatton Malaria Journal 2011, 10:56 (8 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This work aims to test the idea that parasite dormancy can explain the rates of recrudescence observed in clinical studies of patients treated with artemisinin monotherapy, with the model’s parameters for dormancy based on recently published in vitro work.
		Research Effect of HIV infection on the acute antibody response to malaria antigens in children: an observational study Daniel KM Muema, Francis M Ndungu, Samson M Kinyanjui, James A Berkley Malaria Journal 2011, 10:55 (5 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This is an important paper and first evidence of a stunting of the humoral response in children with HIV that may account for the increase in parasitaemia and severe malaria among HIV-infected children who are older than their age and season matched controls.
		Research Temporal correlation analysis between malaria and meteorological factors in Motuo County, Tibet Fang Huang, Shuisen Zhou, Shaosen Zhang, Hongju Wang, Linhua Tang Malaria Journal 2011, 10:54 (4 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The paper describes a series of statistical analysis of a time series of area averaged climate data and malaria data (1986-2009) for Motuo County, Tibet, an area from where little is known of the malaria situation.
		Research Phase I randomized dose-ascending placebo-controlled trials of ferroquine - a candidate anti-malarial drug - in adults with asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infection Ghyslain Mombo-Ngoma, Christian Supan, Matthias P Dal-Bianco, Michel A Missinou, Pierre-Blaise Matsiegui, Carmen L Ospina Salazar, Saadou Issifou, Daniel Ter-Minassian, Michael Ramharter, Maryvonne Kombila, Peter G Kremsner, Bertrand Lell Malaria Journal 2011, 10:53 (1 March 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary These phase 1 safety trials showed that clinically, ferroquine was generally well-tolerated up to 1,600 mg, in adults with asymptomatic falciparum malaria
		Research Atorvastatin prevents Plasmodium falciparum cytoadherence and endothelial damage Zacharie Taoufiq, Paco Pino, Nadine N'dilimabaka, Issam Arrouss, Serge Assi, Florent Soubrier, Angelita Rebollo, Dominique Mazier Malaria Journal 2011, 10:52 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The issue of severe malaria adjunctive treatment is still an important mater of debate and needs to be addressed using both in vitro and in vivo studies. This paper makes a worthwhile contribution to this field of research.
		Research Stability-indicating HPLC-DAD/UV-ESI/MS impurity profiling of the anti-malarial drug lumefantrine Mathieu Verbeken, Sultan Suleman, Bram Baert, Elien Vangheluwe, Sylvia Van Dorpe, Christian Burvenich, Luc Duchateau, Frans H Jansen, Bart De Spiegeleer Malaria Journal 2011, 10:51 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary A paper with useful information on the quality control of lumefantrine
		Research Safety and efficacy of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine versus artemether-lumefantrine in the treatment of uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Zambian children Michael Nambozi, Jean-Pierre Van Geertruyden, Sebastian Hachizovu, Mike Chaponda, Doreen Mukwamataba, Modest Mulenga, David Ubben, Umberto D'Alessandro Malaria Journal 2011, 10:50 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary DHA/PQP seems a potential candidate to be used as an alternative first-line or rescue treatment in Zambia.
		Research Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of artesunate and dihydroartemisinin following oral treatment in pregnant women with asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infections in Kinshasa DRC Marie A Onyamboko, Steven R Meshnick, Lawrence Fleckenstein, Matthew A Koch, Joseph Atibu, Victor Lokomba, Macaya Douoguih, Jennifer Hemingway-Foday, David Wesche, Robert W Ryder, Carl Bose, Linda L Wright, Antoinette K Tshefu, Edmund V Capparelli Malaria Journal 2011, 10:49 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary A paper which adds to the extant literature on pharmacokinetics of artesunate in the pregnant population.
		Methodology A real-time, quantitative PCR method using hydrolysis probes for the monitoring of Plasmodium falciparum load in experimentally infected human volunteers Rebecca J Rockett, Sarah J Tozer, Chris Peatey, Seweryn Bialasiewicz, David M Whiley, Michael D Nissen, Katharine Trenholme, James S Mc Carthy, Theo P Sloots Malaria Journal 2011, 10:48 (28 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The results show that the hydrolysis probe rt-qPCR assay is superior to SYBR Green for the quantification of P. falciparum in human blood samples.
		Research Reduced risk for placental malaria in iron deficient women Edward L Senga, Gregory Harper, Gibby Koshy, Peter N Kazembe, Bernard J Brabin Malaria Journal 2011, 10:47 (23 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The influence of iron deficiency on infection risk has been a long-standing clinical concern, with the knowledge that iron supplementation might increase the risk of malaria. This study of malaria in pregnancy showed that women with placental malaria were less likely to have iron deficiency than women without placental malaria infection.
		Research Reductions in malaria and anaemia case and death burden at hospitals following scale-up of malaria control in Zanzibar, 1999-2008 Maru W Aregawi, Abdullah S Ali, Abdul-wahiyd Al-mafazy, Fabrizio Molteni, Samson Katikiti, Marian Warsame, Ritha JA Njau, Ryuichi Komatsu, Eline Korenromp, Mehran Hosseini, Daniel Low-Beer, Anders Bjorkman, Umberto D'Alessandro, Marc Coosemans, Mac Otten Malaria Journal 2011, 10:46 (18 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Scaling-up effective malaria interventions in Zanzibar reduced malaria-related burden at health facilities by over 75% within 5 years. In high-malaria settings, intensified malaria control can substantially contribute to reaching the Millennium Development Goal 4 target of reducing under-five mortality by two-thirds between 1990 and 2015.
		Research District level external quality assurance (EQA) of malaria microscopy in Pakistan: pilot implementation and feasibility Muhammad Khan, John D Walley, Muhammad Munir, Muhammad Khan, Nayyar Khokar, Zarfishan Tahir, Athar Nazir, Nazia Shams Malaria Journal 2011, 10:45 (17 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This paper reports on the early implementation of a district-level external quality assurance programme for malaria microscopy in four districts in Pakistan. Improving malaria microscopy on a programmatic level, and demonstrating the impact of such efforts, is a notable challenge and is of considerable interest to the many stakeholders in public health and malaria control.
		Research Monitoring of clinical efficacy and in vitro sensitivity of Plasmodium vivax to chloroquine in area along Thai Myanmar border during 2009-2010 Poonuch Muhamad, Ronnatrai Ruengweerayut, Wanna Chacharoenkul, Kanchana Rungsihirunrat, Kesara Na-Bangchang Malaria Journal 2011, 10:44 (16 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary While in vivo results suggest that the standard regimen of chloroquine was still very effective for the treatment of vivax malaria in the Thai-Myanmar border area, there is some evidence of a reduced in vitro sensitivity, raise the possibility of resistance in the future.
		Review The first Finnish malariologist, Johan Haartman, and the discussion about malaria in 18th century Turku, Finland Lena Hulden Malaria Journal 2011, 10:43 (15 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The paper deals with Dr. Haartman, a professor in medicine, appointed in Turku, at that time belonging to Finland and now neighbouring the newly Russian part of Karelia. Turku at that time, like Karelia, are known for a relatively high incidence of malaria (mostly Plasmodium vivax and, more rarely, Plasmodium malariae), a situation that persisted into the 1950s, also shared by some northern parts of Russia (Murmansk).
		Research Sequence and gene expression of chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) in the association of in vitro drugs resistance of Plasmodium falciparum Wanna Chaijaroenkul, Stephen A Ward, Mathirut Mungthin, David Johnson, Andrew Owen, Patrick G Bray, Kesara Na-Bangchang Malaria Journal 2011, 10:42 (15 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This article summarizes some interesting new findings on pfcrt sequence variants in 95 Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Thailand. These sequences were compared with drug susceptibility phenotypes. The authors report two novel PfCRT mutations – K76A and E198K, in a background of the SE Asian haplotype.
		Research Evaluating the effectiveness of IPTi on malaria using routine health information from sentinel health centres in southern Tanzania Barbara A Willey, Joanna RM Armstrong Schellenberg, Werner Maokola, Kizito Shirima, Mwajuma Chemba, Hassan Mshinda, Pedro Alonso, Marcel Tanner, David Schellenberg Malaria Journal 2011, 10:41 (14 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The paper describes the IPTi morbidity monitoring study, in which routine health management and information services data was analysed to investigate the effect of IPTi with SP on malaria, anaemia, and all-cause attendance in children aged 2-11 months in 11 health centres in southern Tanzania.
		Research Immunization with different PfAMA1 alleles in sequence induces clonal imprint humoral responses that are similar to responses induced by the same alleles as a vaccine cocktail in rabbits Kwadwo A Kusi, Bart W Faber, Marjolein van der Eijk, Alan W Thomas, Clemens HM Kocken, Edmond J Remarque Malaria Journal 2011, 10:40 (14 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Comparison of the antibody responses induced in rabbits to the P. falciparum vaccine candidate AMA1 using different immunization strategies.
		Research Malaria rapid diagnostic kits: quality of packaging, design and labelling of boxes and components and readability and accuracy of information inserts Philippe Gillet, Jessica Maltha, Veerle Hermans, Raffaella Ravinetto, Cathrien Bruggeman, Jan Jacobs Malaria Journal 2011, 10:39 (13 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This study reports on the characteristics of malaria RDTs that are commercially available in terms of their packaging, labelling and inserts. Clear instructions for end-users may help in the correct use of RDTs and ultimately improve the diagnostic accuracy.
		Research Comparative population structure of Plasmodium malariae and Plasmodium falciparum under different transmission settings in Malawi Marian C Bruce, Allan Macheso, Alex McConnachie, Malcolm E Molyneux Malaria Journal 2011, 10:38 (11 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This is the first study to investigate the population structure of P. malariae in depth, and performed in a manner which allowed comparison to sympatric P. falciparum infections with well-matched samples.
		Research In vitro susceptibility to quinine and microsatellite variations of the Plasmodium falciparum Na⁺/H⁺exchanger (Pfnhe-1) gene: the absence of association in clinical isolates from the Republic of Congo Sébastien Briolant, Stéphane Pelleau, Hervé Bogreau, Philippe Hovette, Agnès Zettor, Jacky Castello, Eric Baret, Rémy Amalvict, Christophe Rogier, Bruno Pradines Malaria Journal 2011, 10:37 (11 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Investigation of the association between PfNHE polymorphisms and quinine susceptibility in P. falciparum field isolates. In this study, the investigators examine isolates from the Congo and do not find a statistically significant association between DNNND repeats and quinine IC50.
		Research Induction of strain-transcendent antibodies to placental-type isolates with VAR2CSA DBL3 or DBL5 recombinant proteins Marion Avril, Megan M Cartwright, Marianne J Hathaway, Joseph D Smith Malaria Journal 2011, 10:36 (11 February 2011) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The paper describes the ability of VAR2CSA recombinant proteins produced in Pichia pastoris to elicit strain-transcending antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum placental-type parasite lines.