A class project in which class members enter news items relating to any way in which insects and related arthropods negatively and directly impact human health by causing disease in the broadest sense.
Created by jdharper2 on Aug 10, 2010
Last updated: 11/26/12 at 10:32 PM
This article discusses the recent prevalence of bird malaria in the Northern hemisphere. This increase of the disease is hypothesized to be driven by worldly climate change. Malaria infected birds have been found in Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska. This type of malaria is spread by a parasite similar to the one that causes human harm, although scientist are not quite sure how this strain is spreading in these cold temperatures. Bird malaria is hitting hard in these regions because these bird species have never been exposed to any sickness such as this and as a result have no traces of immunity against such. I chose this article because I believe it could serve as a precursor of what could happen to humans in the near future due to global warming. As a result of the research being done in relation to bird malaria, i think it will be easier to understand what humans may experience and possibly help to control it before it starts.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120919190602.htm
A 5th diagnosis of Eastern equine encephalitis has occured in Massachusetts this week. EEE is a mosquito-borne disease that is quite often fatal in humans. There have been 5 diagnoses in MA this year and 1 has resulted in a death, and this latest has resulted in hospitalization. Last year there were only 2 diagnoses in MA, one of which resulted in death.
EEE is a mosquito-borne disease that carries symptoms much like a severe flu. However, most people won't experience any symptoms when infected. Because EEE is mosquito-borne, standard protocol to avoid mosquito contact should be followed to minimize risk of EEE infection.
http://www.boston.com/whitecoatnotes/2012/09/18/massachusetts-case-eee-diagnosed-essex-county-man/XeDKdgBnFXGJhrSS0VYgQI/story.html
This information sheet from the CDC reports a total of 3,142 cases of West Nile Fever so far in 2012 in the US. 48 states have had cases and 134 deaths have been attributed to the disease.
This entry has maps to links showing counties in each state in which reports have been confirmed. Texas leads the nation with 40% 0f all cases reported thus far in 2012.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm
This is an article about the problems Massachusetts is having proving that the aerial pesticide spraying they did this summer is having any effect on the mosquito population. At first the state claimed that they had significantly reduced the mosquito population, but when pressed they have been unable to produce any records saying they did.
I chose this article because it goes on to explain that the pesticide used needs 17 precisely sized droplets to hit each mosquito. If the droplets are too big or too small they won't work. It also mentions weather conditions and dense vegetation as being major problems for the pesticide to be effective. Overall it is good at explaining the problems associated with the effectiveness of mass pesticide sprayings.
Michael Dubanowich 09/14/12
http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/science-a-environmental/36503-massachusetts-fails-to-support-claim-that-aerial-spraying-suppresses-insect-borne-disease.html
The La Cruses Public School in New Mexico has come up with a very interesting and unconventional way of dealing with head lice. The school is insisting that their children infected with head lice stay in attendance at school. The school says the spread of head lice or pediculosis has nothing to do with the fact that the children are in school. Because head lice is according to the article only spread by head to head contact. The nurses have insisted that children with head lice should simply be treated and then checked before they go to class.
This way of treatment is very uncommon and especially uncommon in a school. Head lice are especially difficult to treat because of the nits or eggs that they lay in the hosts hair. These nits must be killed with over the counter shampoo and then picked out individually. The treatment will not work fully if all of the nits are not removed from the scalp. Because head lice have the ability to lay a copious number of nits this makes this quite a task.
Therefore when children do contract head lice their parents try to treat them as quickly as possible and ensure that no other children contract them. The school system's choice to enact this new form of treatment is quite shocking to parents since it is so unconventional.
http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sr&csi=8399&sr=HLEAD(Las+Cruces+Public+Schools)+and+date+is+September+12%2C+2012
Although West Nile cases in the US have peaked, health officials of the CDC believe that the worst part of the epidemic is over. In the past week, the total number of cases of West Nile virus this year has jumped from 1,993 to 2,636.
The majority of cases seem to be in the central/southern part of the country. Texas accounts for 40% of the new cases reported in the last week.
Interestingly enough, Hurricane Isaac did not cause much of an increase in new cases.
http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/12/health/west-nile-virus/index.html?iref=allsearch
New research of some fruit flies shows that due to the Circadian clock, these fruit flies follow the same pattern of blood temperature homeostasis as we do.
To be specific, the Drosophila fruit flies are the ones that share the same patterns as we do. With that being the case, though, they are susceptible to more disease.
They are a very common type of fruit flies and can spread disease quickly.
http://phys.org/news/2012-09-fruit-flies-reveal-evolutionary-link.html
This article explains how the Drosophila fruit fly uses circadian rhythm to locate preferred daily temperatures. This rhythm is similar to that of humans. Study of how the body maintains an steady internal temperature while external environment changes is important because if it is not maintained it can lead to disease.
I chose this article because I felt it important to see how an insect can be impacting on human disease in a way other than ttransmission.
Article found September 18, 2012
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120913123223.htm
This article speaks of the resurgence of the virus, the suspected reasons for the outbreak, the regions of the country most affected, symptoms of the virus and precautions that should be taken to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.
I chose this article because it "hits home" so to speak. We learned about how mosquitoes transmit malaria, but that is not here in the U.S.. West Nile reminds us that with all of the technology we have, we are still vulnerble.
Article found September 14, 2012
Liberty Harris
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2012/09/13/west-nile-outbreak-how-to-stay-healthy
An elementary school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is being treated with pesticides because a bed bug was found on one of the students. This is the second time that this has happened in the past 6 months. Several mothers at the school were quite upset and concerned that their children already have health problems and this is just going to make it worse. This school is being treated for pests even though the principal thinks its not likely the school is infested. Unlike mosquitos, bed bugs aren't known to spread diseases but they can cause allergic reactions.
I thought this was an interesting article in opposition to my first one about West Nile. I did not know that bed bugs could not transmit disease before this class, but mosquitos can. It's interesting learning about bugs in this class and reading about them in news articles!
September 12, 2012
Megan Stahl
An elementary school in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is being treated with pesticides because a bed bug was found on one of the students. This is the second time that this has happened in the past 6 months. Several mothers at the school were quite upset and concerned that their children already have health problems and this is just going to make it worse. This school is being treated for pests even though the principal thinks its not likely the school is infested. Unlike mosquitos, bed bugs aren't known to spread diseases but they can cause allergic reactions.
In another attempt to control malaria outbreaks, scientists are looking for a way to prevent male mosquitoes from breeding. During mating, mosquitoes form swarms and males produce a "plug" to seal their sperm inside females. By studying the coagulating enzyme that forms this plug, researchers believe they may be able to delevop a compound that would inhibit coagulation, preventing the female from retaining sperm.
This technique has been used previously with screwworm flies and tsetse flies and has been a success.
This article is important because if successful, such a technique could save millions of lives without using chemicals that could harm other species.
Lauren Parker
9-12-2012
http://zeenews.india.com/news/health/health-news/birth-control-drug-for-mosquitoes-to-curb-malaria_18417.html
This is an article about whether we are seeing a rise in the number of viral epidemics. The answer is both yes and no. It goes on to mention the large number of outbreaks of West Nile virus this year as, as well as, the hantavirus in Yosemite Park and Eastern equine encephalitis in Massachusetts. While it goes on to conclude that there have been a lot of viruses this year people shouldn't panic, although precautions should be taken. It goes on to give a little history about disease and how trade and travel have spread viruses through the ages.
I picked this article because it was an interesting overview on the subject of humans, and viruses. I thought that it fit in well talking about this years outbreaks and some previous ones as well.
September 13th 2012
Michael Dubanowich
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/does-the-west-nile-outbreak-signal-an-epidemic-of-viral-epidemics-yes-and-no/2012/09/12/bc8e9b34-fc14-11e1-b153-218509a954e1_story.html
The Department of Biotechnology in India is preparing a document that will provide guidance, regulations, and control measures for the genetic engineering of certain disease-carrying insects.
In an effort to curb the transmission of such diseases as malria and dengue fever, scientists hope to create transgenic insects that will help reduce and possibly erradicate insect-borne diseases in India.
I chose this article because it presents an interesting possibilty of controlling major, destructive insect-borne diseases that we have already discussed in class.
Article found 9/20/12
Submitted by Joni Wiles
http://banking.contify.com/story/dbt-drafted-guidance-document-for-transgenic-insects-to-prevent-insect-borne-diseases-26780862
Dengue is a virus transmitted by the Aedes mosquito that affects millions, killing around 25,000 people every year. Since there is no vaccine to the illness, scientists are searching for new ways to limit the transmission of the virus.
The virus is found in over 100 countries in the tropics around the world. By analyzing data sets, a trend in transmission was discovered. The outbreaks were more numerous from January to July, with a peak between March and May when the weather was warmest and humidity highest.
This article is important because it shows how discovering trends in vector-borne illnesses is beneficial. By knowing when virus outbreaks will be most prevalent, treatments against mosquitoes can be organised more effectively.
Lauren Parker
9-12-2012
http://www.eurasiareview.com/23082012-predicting-outbreaks-of-dengue-fever-according-to-climate/
A recent study was conducted by scientists in order to observe how different gene make-ups in children affect how their immune system responds against malaria. By using the cells in blood of children from the Republic of Benin, West Africa, an area heavily tolled by malaria, scientists were able to further investigate the relationship between gene make-up and malaria. As a result of these studies, scientists feel that the path of future treatment and prevention of malaria in certain areas can be better navigated due to the understanding of the infectious disease in terms of genetics.
The article showcases a common example of a disease transmitted through insects and concerns it with a particular bodily interaction.I think that breaking down such distinct interactions in certain areas is a step forward for humans in order to fight off diseases vectored by insects. For example, if scientists can gained detailed understandings of how the human body is affected by insects through common diseases such as malaria, then there is a chance the some of our threats due to disease transmission through insects can be eliminated. The research and production of vaccines and medicines for common threats may also be sped up if scientists were to continue discovering detailed indications of diseases in humans.
Accessed September 12th, 2012
Aaron Williams
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120912083528.htm
Date: August 21, 2011
Summary: This was a study examining how global warming will impact cryptic diversity; looked at seven species in European mountain stream of insects that are vulnerable to temperature changes, because they need cold environments and are not able to relocate to different niches. They sequenced and manipulated the genes of the insects, then coded them based on a few areas (such as adapting to temperature and relocation abilities). The researchers argue that genetic diversity is most significant form of biodiversity; this study predicts the loss of genetic diversity potential in species as the Earth's temperature continues to increase. The study also predicts genetic diversity in insects to maintain in areas such as the Mediterranean, but not anywhere else. The use of genetics is a way to study HOW insects adapt to climate changes, and with the estimated loss of potential among study populations, they anticipate the same across species outside of study. Findings suggest that the same thing is being seen in seaweed studies in some regions near Mediterranean.
Relevance to class: Insect diversity is important in entomology, and in understanding the wide array of disease transmission across various insect orders and species. Also, this particular study touches on a topic of relevance because “global warming” and climate change and how those factors impact disease transmission is a topic for research in this course.
Date found: September 5, 2012
Lauryn Collier
Location: study was conducted in European mountains
Link: http://www.nature.com/news/2011/110821/full/news.2011.490.html
No Video
http://www.nature.com/news/2011/110821/full/news.2011.490.html
New virus found in Missouri; ticks suspected
Date of article: August 30, 2012
Summary: A tick bite for two farmers in Missouri led scientists to discover a new viral disease. It is believed to be related to the phlebovirus family, which has more than 70 relatives categorized by the type of insect that transmits the virus (i.e. mosquito, sandflies or ticks). Although tick-borne diseases are becoming more prominent in America, the scientists cannot confirm this particular virus is tick-borne, though it does have very similar characteristics. They have not completely ruled out mosquitoes or sandflies. Symptoms of viral contraction include fever, fatigue, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Current research is underway to gather more information.
Relevance to class: The discovery of a new disease is always fascinating and sparks interest in finding anti-virals, vaccinations, etc. The fact that this new virus is most likely transmitted by an insect makes this story extremely timely for this course. The article also talks about specific things that characterize tick-borne transmitted viruses, which are interesting in their own rights to learn about. As of now the researchers are deeming this disease not contagious, but are looking into finding other people with similar symptoms and investigating the Missouri area for the ticks.
Date found: September 10, 2012
Lauryn Collier
Location: Northwestern Missouri
Link: http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2012/08/30/new-virus-found-in-missouri-ticks-suspected/?iref=allsearch
No Video
http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2012/08/30/new-virus-found-in-missouri-ticks-suspected/?iref=allsearch
This article is about a new invasive species of mosquito that has come to Europe called The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus). This species of mosquito is known to transmit at least 22 different viruses. The mosquitoes are arriving in Europe via exotic trade with Southeast Asia due to their drought proof eggs which can stay dormant until there is a proper amount of rainfall at their destination. European officials are using surveillance methods to try and track the number of invasive mosquitoes.
I chose this article because it is about how non-native species can cause an unbalance in nature. In this case, it is very medically relevent because the non-native species can transfer at least 22 different viruses to humans.
Joshua Grimes
11 Sep 2012
http://www.nature.com/news/europe-on-alert-for-flying-invaders-1.11388
Date of article: March 20, 2012
Summary: An increasing number of cases of Chagas disease in the United States has brought the issue to national attention and spotlight. Insects that transmit Chagas disease are feeding on humans and infecting more and more people in the U.S. The insects that are moving north from South America with the parasite that causes the disease are the kissing bugs. This was also an interesting discovery because 11 species of kissing bugs in America are known not to feed on people. Some regions in the U.S. have increased populations of the kissing bugs that carry Chagas, and they bite and feed on humans at night. Researchers say the best way to prevent getting the disease is to use screened windows and doors and make sure everything is locked up outside, especially if you are in the targeted areas with increasing recorded cases.
Relevance to class: True bugs are species of insects that we study heavily in the course. Kissing bugs are relevant because, as mentioned above, they are typically known to be fairly harmless. In this case, they are transmitting a fatal disease to people in the United States. The number of infected people in the U.S. is minimal compared to South America, but the comparison of Chagas to “the New AIDS” implies that the disease is spreading rapidly and could become a serious problem. Understanding the insects, and the disease, is critical in managing insect-transmitted epidemics.
Date Found: September 6, 2012
Lauryn Collier
Location: United States, specific study in California and Arizona
Link: http://news.health.com/2012/03/20/insects-behind-chagas-disease-are-feeding-on-humans-in-the-u-s/
Video (youtube clip from the news): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxUeYODs-8E
http://news.health.com/2012/03/20/insects-behind-chagas-disease-are-feeding-on-humans-in-the-u-s/
Muscular dystrophy is a fatal disease that affects only males. This disease causes the muscles to deteriorate and eventually waste away.
The venom of the rose tarantula has a particular protein in it that has reseaerchers excited. This protein has yet to be tested on humans, but in preliminary trials it has aided in dystrophic mice to regain strength.
This therapy is not a cure. It will simply help to extend the lives of people afflicted with this disease.
Medical vaccines, or treatments, or cures are always a hot topic in the news. Something that could potentially extend the life of a young boy suffering from muscular dystrophy is big news.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120716142657.htm
In the Coulee region, the invasive spotted wing Drosophilia has developed a liking for raspberries. Raspberry growers in the area have confirmed large numbers of the flies in their fall raspberries.
These fruit flies, which feed on soft, fleshy fruits, destroy the plant by laying eggs inside the fruit. Many planters, anticipating the infestation, treated their plants early in an effort to prevent destruction to their harvest.
It is assumed that winds blew the flies into the area from Michigan where they barely missed the spring season. Some farmers worry their fall crops are already a lost cause because they were treated too late. Growers notice the infestation with a single worm which produces a fly. These flies lay their eggs in the fruit which deem the plants destroyed.
http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/fruit-fly-hits-coulee-region-invasive-species-likes-raspberries/article_b81e581c-fbc6-11e1-8f61-001a4bcf887a.html
This article details four diseases that are being broadcast in the news, and they are telling you how they spread and what you can do to avoid them. Its also lists symptoms of the diseases.
http://www.reporternews.com/news/2012/sep/11/plague-hantavirus-west-nile-learn-how-to-avoid/
Several tourists have succumbed while travelling in South East Asia lately. They all share the same symptoms - vomiting, difficulty breathing, and vomiting. Symptoms seem to appear quickly, and death seems to happen soon after. Two girls backpacking in Vietnam were admitted to a hospital there for the above stated symptoms. Three hours later, one girl was dead, two days later, the other girl. Two sisters were found in a hotel in Thailand, covered in vomit and dead. Other horror stories can be found in the original article.
It has been hard to find answers to what it was that happened to these tourists, but is is suspected that pesticide poisoning could be the cause. The pesticide in question is chlorpyrifos, which can cause the same exact symptoms if exposed to in high doses. Several of the tourists were found with traces of this poison inside their bodies. The hotel and cocktails served at a nearby restaurant were found to contain traces of pesticides. However, it is hard to be certain if this is the cause since chlorpyrifos almost immediately leaves the human body.
I chose this article to make people aware of what is going on in South East Asia; the more people that know about it, the less that will die. The article might not be about insects per se, but it talks about something very much related to insects: pesticides.
http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/13/health/mysterious-tourist-deaths-asia/index.html?iref=allsearch
West Nile made its first appearance in the US in 1999. It was in New York City.
West Nile has been the worst it has ever been especially in Texas and the city of Dallas had to be covered in anti-mosquito pesticides
Why has West Nile gotten so bad? High temperatures across the US increase the rate of breeding in misquotes. Not only did this increase the number on mosquitos carrying West Nile virus, but it could have created a new breed of dangerous insects, spreading the disease faster. What is so serious about West Nile virus is that there is no treatment once infected or before infected. There is no vaccine.
I think this is important to learn about because mosquitos can carry an extremely serious human disease called West Nile. Because there is no treatment, it is important for us to be aware when temperatures are on the rise so that we can then be aware when mosquitos are more likely to be carrying this deadly disease.
September 12, 2012
Megan Stahl
http://www.latimes.com/health/boostershots/la-heb-west-nile-virus-outbreaks-may-get-worse-as-planet-gets-hotter-20120910,0,4629323.story
West Nile virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. As of August 28, 2012, 48 states have reported West Nile virus outbreaks for a total of 1,590 cases. The patterns of this virus change from year to year so it is difficult to track.
Being a delicacy for mosquitoes I personally would be slightly worried about the news from this article. It seems that no matter where I go or what I'm around, I am a favorite snack for mosquitoes. I need to be careful and monitor this outbreak of West Nile virus in the United States.
The mild winter in the past year allowed mosquitoes to survive and continue mating. Since the mosquitoes can continue to infect people into the fall, and since no vaccine is currently on the market, the West Nile virus could be around in the United States for a while.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/re...904151639.htm
Reports have been up and coming for more and more trees in the Southwest due to the decline n the lumber market.
Prices have been going up in the lumber marked due to decreased supply. The decrease in supply is due to problems with the trees. The trees have been undergoing a period of drought which has decreased the "immunity" of the trees. Along with bark falling of and other problems, the trees have been more susceptible to insect infestation eating away at them and other various disturbances.
http://phys.org/news/2012-09-droughts-trees-ward-disease-insects.html
West Nile virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. As of August 28, 2012, 48 states have reported West Nile virus outbreaks for a total of 1,590 cases. The patterns of this virus change from year to year so it is difficult to track.
Being a delicacy for mosquitoes I personally would be slightly worried about the news from this article. It seems that no matter where I go or what I'm around, I am a favorite snack for mosquitoes. I need to be careful and monitor this outbreak of West Nile virus in the United States.
The mild winter in the past year allowed mosquitoes to survive and continue mating. Since the mosquitoes can continue to infect people into the fall, and since no vaccine is currently on the market, the West Nile virus could be around in the United States for a while.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/re...904151639.htm
Every year millions of people around the world are infected with malaria, and thousands die from the disease. Malaria is transmitted via mosquito bites. The disease has shown strong antibiotic resistance and mosquitoes are evolving resistance to many insecticides, making them difficult to eradicate or control.
A research team, however, claims to have found a way to combat malaria without the use of insecticides or antibiotics. By genetically altering a bacterium that has a symbiotic relationship with malaria they believe they have found a way to control the malaria-causing parasite carried by mosquitoes. Genetically altering the bacteria causes it to secrete toxins that will inhibit malaria and prevent it from building a resistance.
This research is important because of the devastating effects malaria has on many countries, especially those in Africa and south Asia. It also presents an alternative to insecticides like DDT that may harm the environment.
Lauren Parker
9-11-2012
http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/news/science/in-the-war-on-malaria-a-new-tactic-on-mosquitoes-652638/?p=1
This article discusses how insect bites to animals can then translate into human sickness after spread.
With the uprising of the West Nile virus being so prevalent in the country and news, this article covers important information that people may need to know now with the spread of such and how to prevent it.
This article also points out that as of right now there are at least 48 important diseases noted from insects to animals that can then be transmitted from animals to people. The article goes into further detail on each sickness and highlights the few that are prevalent this week.
http://m.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/stories/14-diseases-you-can-get-from-your-pets
Studies show that some rodents are possibly causing a sudden outbreak of what can be referred to as animal-borne diseases. The hantavirus, a disease that is carried by mice and other rodents, appeared to be the main cause of various deaths and infections for some visitors of Yosemite National Park this past summer.
WIthin this last ten years, researchers say that more than half of the newly infectious diseases we fear today originated from wildlife.
I chose this article because I felt that it addressed major precautions for us as humans. This selection included many examples, such as the West Nile virus and a virus carried by ticks that may be very relevant in our environment. I am aware that the article was not specifically about insects, however I think that animal-borne diseases are an important topic as well.
-Karissa Frink
-Sept. 10,2012
http://news.discovery.com/human/animal-borne-diseases-120910.html
Sterile fruit flies will mate with females before their wild type counterparts will. Peter Teal, a chemist in Florida, discovered this hormone therapy working with scientists from Mexico, Argentina, and Austria. Anastrepha ludens is a mexican fruit fly and the subject of this experiment. This particular fly could do millions of dollars worth of damage to food crops. Therefore an irradiation treatment to sterilize the males was brought forth.
Once the sterilized males are released into nature, they mate with the wild female flies. The eggs that are produced by this union do not hatch. The population will then, eventually, collapse. Methoprene is used to speed along the males into sexual maturity. These flies were also tested to be stronger and more successful at mating. Our crops are safe thanks to sterilization.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/re...904121705.htm
This article is about officials in Maryland warning residents to beware mosquitoes because this season has been the worst season for West Nile since it first came to the U.S. in 1999. Officials are spraying several counties with incecticides to kill mosquitoes which transmit the disease to humans from birds.
I chose this article because it shows how pathogens can be transmited from host organisms (birds) to humans through an insect carrier (mosquitoes). It is also significant because it is one of the insect borne diseases that can have serious cases that lead to fatality in the United States every year.
Joshua Grimes
11 Sep 2012
http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2012-09-09/health/bs-hs-west-nile-spraying-20120909_1_west-nile-mosquito-pools-mental-hygiene
n the Northwest and Midwest regions of the United States, instances of Lyme diseases are slowly on the rise. There were approximately 30,000 reported cases and over 8,000 misdiagnosed cases reported to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention in 2009. In Ohio this public officials are anxious about the potential increase of the disease. This is due to the fact that entomologists are finding ticks in the state in areas that they have never found ticks in before. This could lead to higher infection rates and higher rates of the contraction of Lyme's disease.
The human population in this circumstance is not the only population of organisms at risk for tick borne illnesses. Other animals such as birds, livestock, and other small wildlife could become infected by tick borne illness. Symptoms of the disease include skin rashes and irritation, paralyzation of the facial muscles, and bacterial infection. If left unattended for long periods of the time lyme disease can cause serious complications in the central nervous and cardiovascular systems.
http://www.privatemdlabs.com/blood-testing-news/Infectious_Diseases/Ohio-experiences-spike-in-Lyme-disease$800855558.php
This article was written as an informative article to tell people that contrary to popular belief, ticks may be vectors for multiple diseases other than lyme disease. The article elaborates on how different diseases spread by ticks depends different species of ticks. In turn, different species of ticks are located in different areas, so possible contracted diseases from ticks depends on the area a person lives in. For example, the article highlights how in our area, the southeast, lyme disease is actually very uncommon compared to diseases such as rickettsiosis and ehrlichiosis.
I think the article relates to the class in multiple ways- it corrects common misunderstandings regarding one of the most prevalent insects that spreads disease to humans, it covers how different species and areas could possibly affect what diseases are threats and it highlights some common ticks and their respective diseases in our area. I think it is also a helpful article because it provides guidelines to humans in case they do happen to come across a tick and begin to experience symptoms.
Accessed September 11th, 2012
Aaron Williams
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120907142341.htm
New studies show that toxins from spider venom may be an alternative to many erectile dysfunction drugs. The Brazilian wandering spider has a toxin in its venom that has been seen to cause a very painful erection in men. This discovery was made after several men, after being bitten, showed up in the emergency room with the same problem. The venom has been tested on lab rats and has been shown to improve their erections. The venom of this Brazilian wandering spider triggers the release of nitric oxide need for muscle relaxation.
This article relates to our class discussions because we have seen how spiders and other insects can harm humans by transmitting diseases and even causing pain while they penetrate the skin. This article shows the benefits that insects can have on human health. Erectile dysfunction is a very common problem that aging men have and there are several drugs on the market to help this problem but we can minimize costs of drugs by getting them naturally from spider venom. We have learned that the injection of venom by spiders is a chemical injury. This chemical injury could turn into a very positive solution for men.
Found September 14, 2012-09-14
Kayla Gibson
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48...-dysfunction/
It is monsoon season in tropical parts of the world like Mumbai. Therefore mosquito-borne diseases in this area are common place and prevalent during this time of year. In this month doctors in this area have seen the cases of dengue triple from 40 in August to 110 in the month of September so far. It has also been noted that the severity of symptoms in these cases has increased during the last month. This article shows how cases of mosquito borne illness can increase at a alarming rate and how they are a global problem.
In America mosquito-borne illness are also becoming a current health threat with the recent outbreak of west nile virus. The resurgence of this virus is alarming. Especially since the virus has potential to be a threat locally. The increase of dengue fever in Mumbai demonstrates this treat of mosquito-borne disease. If unchecked or uncontrolled this could become a problem in the states.
http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sr&csi=8399&sr=HLEAD(Malaria+not+as+potent%2C+but+dengue+cases+triple)+and+date+is+August+29%2C+2012
A 7-year-old girl from Colorado was recently diagnosed with bubonic plague after a camping trip. The plague has not been confirmed in Colorado since 2006 and is treatable if caught early. Federal health officials confirmed two other cases in the U.S. so far this year - one in New Mexico and one in Oregon.
The girl complained of feeling sick a few days after camping, and eventually had a seizure which led to her being rushed to the emergency room. She was flown to Denver after the girl’s condition did not improve. Doctors finally diagnosed the girl and gave her the antibiotics she needed. Parents of the girl think she might have been infected by insects near a dead squirrel the girl was seen near.
The bubonic plague killed an estimated 25 million people in Europe, and today it can be treated with simple antibiotics, however it is important to catch it early.
I selected this article because it talks about bubonic plague which can be transmitted to humans through fleas. This article is valid and important to the discussion of insects and human disease because it is about a disease transmitted through insects, and shows the impact that such a disease can have on a person. It also talks about the prevalence of this disease in the U.S. in the present day as well as how many people were affected by it in the past.
September 9, 2012
Lyndsey Dean
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/09/05/colorado-girl-recovering-from-bubonic-plague/
Last year, scientists discovered “zombie”-like bees that were parasitized by the Apocephaulus borealis fly. Scientists in San Francisco are conducting an experiment that tags infected bees with tiny radio trackers to monitor the bees’ movements. The bees infected with the parasite abandon their hives and congregate near outside lights, moving in bizarre circles on the ground before dying. As of now, it is unclear as to how huge of a threat the new fly parasite has on the health of the honey bee colonies. Scientists have built a system to gather more information about how the parasitic affects the bees’ behavior. Researchers hope that the information gathered from this experiment will help them understand how much of a health concern these flies are for the bees, and if they are in fact the ones causing this erratic behavior.
Flies are a very diverse insect order that transmit diseases. This article is important to the discussion of insects and human diseases because it presents a newly-found parasite that could become more prevalent among honey bees and possibly humans. As of now, the parasite is not well known, but this article explains that experiments are being used to discover more information as to how much of an influence the parasite has on the bees’ strange behaviors.
Sept 7, 2012
Allison Sigmon
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120906182010.htm
This article discusses ways to prevent getting Lyme disease from a Deer Tick. The author advises wearing long sleeve shirt and pants, and preferably light colored. He emphasizes how Lyme disease could be in our backyard because the ticks are literally everywhere. They were thought to be spread so broadly by migrating songbirds. The ticks they carry could have gotten the disease from small small animals they fed off of.
Lyme disease is known as The Great Imitator, so it can mimic other diseases and have a broad range of symptoms. Research was done on 591 blacklegged ticks (Deer ticks) and they found that approximately 12% of them, who were mostly female, were infected with the disease. With around 2000 infected ticks per acre of unkept land, one must take caution when walking through. He illustrates this point by talking about certain undesirable symptoms you could get from Lyme disease, and how they could also be long-term.
I thought this article was appropriate because we have discussed ticks in class, and this shows how they can cause many problems. Most probably don't even think twice about a tick being on them, but if they aren't careful they could end up with the disease.
Tyler Stone
http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sr&csi=249803&sr=HLEAD(Prevention%27s+best+treatment+for+Lyme+disease)+and+date+is+September+6%2C+2012
A seven year old girl, contracted the bubonic plague after being bitten by infected fleas. Her family went camping, and the child found a dead squirrel and wanted to give in a proper burrial, her mother told her no, but found her near the squirrel later with her sweatshirt on the ground, and when she left the area she tied the sweatshirt around her waist, and after she was admitted to the hospital they found flea bites around her torso.
There is apparently an average of 6 or 7 cases of the plague every year. Its scary to think the disease that killed so many in the 14th century, is still an active disease.
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2012/09/05/colorado-girl-recovering-from-bubonic-plague/
A new tick-borne illness has been discovered. It has been named Heartland virus after the Heartland Medical Center in St. Joseph, Missouri where it was diagnosed. Two farmers were admitted to the center in 2009 suffering from a wide variety of severe illnesses. Doctors were unable to determine what could be causing all these symptoms at the same time. Both of the farmers recalled being bitten by ticks shortly before the illness started to take effect. The article goes on to describe how new viruses are being discovered every year.
I chose this article because it described a new disease transmitted to humans by ticks. The article shows that new diseases that effect humans and could have potentially deadly results are still yet to be discovered.
Michael Dubanowich 09/10/12
http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2012/09/ticks-insects-diseases/
In Denver, Colorado, a 7-year-old girl, Sierra, went on a camping trip with her family. While camping, she saw a dead squirrel and attempted to bury it. Doctors believe that in the process of trying to bury the squirrel, Sierra placed her jacket beside the dead squirrel. Fleas that were looking for a new host jumped onto her jacket. Sierra, soon after tying the jacket back around her waist, came down with a high fever that got up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit. She also began seizing. Once at the hospital, insects bites around her torso and the swelling of groin lymph nodes led doctors to believe that the bubonic plague Sierra was infected with, all started at the 'squirrel encounter'.
It's interesting to know that the bubonic plague that people relate to the Middle Ages, is still around infecting people 2012. Luckily, there is medication available to treat it. It's just unfortunate that rodents and parasitic fleas still carry and transmit the disease to humans.
Summarized by Alexis DeAngelis
Published by Keith Coffman
Resource found on September 8, 2012
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sns-rt-usa-plaguecoloradol2e8k60cr-20120905,0,5064716.story
This article talks about a very real threat to humans. There are an alarming number of West Nile Virus cases being seen this year in particular. The West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of a mosquito. The article says that 48 states have reported cases of the West Nile Virus. There is no vaccine for the virus so the article discusses one way to try to avoid getting bit by a mosquito that can transmit the virus by using mosquito repellant that contains DEET.
This article contains a typical relationship between humans and insects. I picked this because the incidence of reported cases of the West Nile Virus has been talked about much in the news this summer. One reason as the article discusses is because we had a very mild winter which many mosquitoes survived making it to the summer months. We also discussed the mental attitudes that people have for mosquitoes. After reading this article and also viewing news reports on the West Nile Virus I have developed a fear of the mosquito. This article also relates to what we have learned about the physical injuries that insects can cause. The mosquito uses its mouth parts to suck blood and they inject anesthetic compounds to minimize awareness of bites.
Found September 14, 2012
Kayla Gibson
http://www.sciencedaily.com/re...905110938.htm
Across parts of Texas, outbreaks of the West Nile virus have been fatal for many. However, after a mass spraying of certain areas, the problem has shown signs of decline.
To be specific, thirteen people have been reported as having died from this outbreak and there is also have been many that are sick as a result of such a incident. With the numbers quite alarming to folks, there was a frantic search for not only answers, but solutions.
The idea to do a massive spraying was not fully accepted at first, but after a realization that there were not any other hopeful suggestions on the table, this idea came to fruition. Thankfully, there have been encouraging results.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/06/us/texas-mosquito-spraying-shows-results.html?_r=1
In Denver, Colorado, a 7-year-old girl, Sierra, went on a camping trip with her family. While camping, she saw a dead squirrel and attempted to bury it. Doctors believe that in the process of trying to bury the squirrel, Sierra placed her jacket beside the dead squirrel. Fleas that were looking for a new host jumped onto her jacket. Sierra, soon after tying the jacket back around her waist, came down with a high fever that got up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit. She also began seizing. Once at the hospital, insects bites around her torso and the swelling of groin lymph nodes led doctors to believe that the bubonic plague Sierra was infected with, all started at the 'squirrel encounter'.
It's interesting to know that the bubonic plague that people relate to the Middle Ages, is still around infecting people 2012. Luckily, there is medication available to treat it. It's just unfortunate that rodents and parasitic fleas still carry and transmit the disease to humans.
Summarized by Alexis DeAngelis
Published by Keith Coffman
Resource found on September 8, 2012
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sns-rt-usa-plaguecoloradol2e8k60cr-20120905,0,5064716.story
West Nile has been quite prevalent thus far in 2012 in the U.S. In particular, Texas has seen a high incidence of the disease and these incidences contributed to half of deaths in the United States so far this year. Within this time frame the most severe form of West Nile has been recorded in 510 cases. 43 of these cases have ended in death. The exact cause of such a sudden increase in the disease is unknown, however many researchers think it to be caused by higher than normal temperatures. This type of West Nile is known as neuroinvasive and affects the nervous system of those who come in contact.
In addition to the higher numbers in Texas, every other state excluding Alaska and Hawaii have had some instance of West Nile in either humans, birds, or mosquitoes. In fact, there have been 1,069 neuroinvasive and 924 non-neuroinvasive. Numbers are expected to increase into October. Symptoms of these documented cases ranged from mild like headaches to severe such as paralysis and typically took around two weeks to surface.
This article hit home for me because I am originally from Texas and also have family residing there. Temperatures the past two summers have been particularly high which as stated may be a contributing factor.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/06/west-nile-virus-texas-deaths_n_1861181.html
The sudden increase in bedbug infestations in the past few years is old news. In fact, the outbreak has gotten so severe that it infected 9 of the hotels in use for the Democratic Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. Severe measures such as dogs used to sniff out the remnants of bedbugs in hotels were brought in in an effort to detect and rid the hotel beds of bedbugs.
Hotel workers struggle with the evasive nature of the bedbugs. Because they only come out at night for a few minutes, bite their host, and then return to the crevices from which they came, hotel maids and cleaning personnel never actually witness the bedbugs in the rooms. In a Charlotte-area Holiday Inn, one guest complained about "finding bugs 'in clear sight' and ending up 'covered in bites' after a one-night stay."
http://www.examiner.com/article/bedbugs-at-democratic-national-convention-hotels
This article talks about a very real threat to humans. There are an alarming number of West Nile Virus cases being seen this year in particular. The West Nile Virus is transmitted to humans by the bite of a mosquito. The article says that 48 states have reported cases of the West Nile Virus. There is no vaccine for the virus so the article discusses one way to try to avoid getting bit by a mosquito that can transmit the virus by using mosquito repellant that contains DEET.
This article contains a typical relationship between humans and insects. I picked this because the incidence of reported cases of the West Nile Virus has been talked about much in the news this summer. One reason as the article discusses is because we had a very mild winter which many mosquitoes survived making it to the summer months. We also discussed the mental attitudes that people have for mosquitoes. After reading this article and also viewing news reports on the West Nile Virus I have developed a fear of the mosquito. This article also relates to what we have learned about the physical injuries that insects can cause. The mosquito uses its mouth parts to suck blood and they inject anesthetic compounds to minimize awareness of bites.
Found September 14, 2012
Kayla Gibson
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120904151639.htm
A unique insect of the stick bug family has been discovered in the Philippines. Several observers say that many characteristics differ when comparing the common insect to the one that suddenly found its way into the rich vegetation of select regions.
Scientists refer to the newly discovered insect as Conlephasma enigma, which means a stick insect like no other. Specific examples to express the uniqueness of the Conlephasma enigma include its blueish-green and orange color pattern and the fact that it is wingless.
I chose this article because I thought it was interesting that we are discovering different species of animals and insects still today. I also think that the individuality of the insect represents just exactly how diverse our society and environment has become.
-Karissa Frink
-Sept. 11, 2012
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/19399735
A new virus, apparently transmitted by ticks, has been discovered. Two men living in Missouri became very ill after being bitten by ticks. Doctors at first believed the illnesses to be ehrlichiosis, a bacterial disease transmitted to humans by ticks. However, after tests were performed, it was found that the two men had contracted a new virus that was a member of the phleboviruses, which is carried by mosquitos, ticks, and sand flies.
Although phleboviruses don't normally cause disease in humans, the virus the two men contracted, named the Heartland virus, is one of two that can make humans severely ill and even cause death.
I thought this article was extremely relevant to our course of study because it exemplifies the fact that new insect-vectored diseases can be discovered and transmitted at any given time. This particular virus adds to the list of other diseases, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted fever that can be transmitted to humans.
Article found 9/20/12
Submitted by Joni Wiles
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/04/health/research/new-tick-borne-heartland-virus-has-scientists-puzzled.html?_r=0
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