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Case-control study of microbiological etiology associated with calf diarrhea. Vet Microbiol 2013; 166:375-85. [PMID: 23886509 PMCID: PMC7117237 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2012] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Calf diarrhea is a major economic burden for the US cattle industry. A variety of infectious agents are implicated in calf diarrhea and co-infection of multiple pathogens is not uncommon in diarrheic calves. A case–control study was conducted to assess infectious etiologies associated with calf diarrhea in Midwest cattle farms. A total of 199 and 245 fecal samples were obtained from diarrheic and healthy calves, respectively, from 165 cattle farms. Samples were tested by a panel of multiplex PCR assays for 11 enteric pathogens: bovine rotavirus group A (BRV-A), bovine coronavirus (BCoV), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine enterovirus (BEV), bovine norovirus (BNoV), Nebovirus, bovine torovirus (BToV) Salmonella spp. (Salmonella), Escherichia coli (E. coli) K99+, Clostridium perfringens with β toxin gene and Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). The association between diarrhea and detection of each pathogen was analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model. More than a half of the fecal samples from the diarrheic calves had multiple pathogens. Statistically, BRV-A, BCoV, BNoV, Nebovirus, Salmonella, E. coli K99+, and C. parvum were significantly associated with calf diarrhea (p < 0.05). Among them, C. parvum and BRV-A were considered to be the most common enteric pathogens for calf diarrhea with high detection frequency (33.7% and 27.1%) and strong odds ratio (173 and 79.9). Unexpectedly BNoV (OR = 2.0) and Nebovirus (OR = 16.7) were identified with high frequency in diarrheic calves, suggesting these viruses may have a significant contribution to calf diarrhea.
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102
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Xiao G, Qiu Z, Qi J, Chen JA, Liu F, Liu W, Luo J, Shu W. Occurrence and potential health risk of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in the Three Gorges Reservoir, China. WATER RESEARCH 2013; 47:2431-45. [PMID: 23478072 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2013.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2012] [Revised: 02/03/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) is the biggest lake in the world and a major water source in China. There is no information about occurrence and impact of Cryptosporidium and Giardia on the aquatic ecosystem. 61 surface water samples from 23 monitoring sites and 5 treated effluent samples were collected and analyzed. Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts were found, respectively, in 86.4% and 65.2% of a total of 66 water samples, with high concentrations in treated effluent. The mean percent recovery was 29.14% for oocysts and 34.86% for cysts. A seasonal pattern was observed, with positive samples for Cryptosporidium more frequent in flood period and positive samples for Giardia more frequent in impounding period. Counts of enterococci, fecal coliforms and total coliforms, and turbidity were significantly associated with Cryptosporidium concentration in backwater (water in a main river which is backed up by the Three Gorges Dam) areas of tributaries but not Giardia. High associations were also found between oocyst and cyst in backwater areas of tributaries and cities. The risks of infection and illness due to water consumption in four different exposure routes were estimated. The results showed that swimming in the TGR has the highest infection risk with 1.39 × 10(-3) per time (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.05-600.3 × 10(-5)) for Cryptosporidium and 2.08 × 10(-4) per time (95% CI: 0.05-878.87 × 10(-6)) for Giardia, while directly drinking unboiled tap water treated with the conventional process has the highest morbidity with 524.98 per 100,000 population per year (95% CI: 10.35-2040.26) for Cryptosporidium and 5.89 per 100,000 population per year (95% CI: 0.08-22.67) for Giardia. This study provides new useful information for drinking water plants, health care workers and managers to improve the safety of tap water and deduce the risk of surface water contamination in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guosheng Xiao
- Department of Environmental Hygiene, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, 400038 Chongqing, China
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103
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Fletcher SM, McLaws ML, Ellis JT. Prevalence of gastrointestinal pathogens in developed and developing countries: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Public Health Res 2013; 2:42-53. [PMID: 25170480 PMCID: PMC4140330 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2013.e9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Diarrhoeal illness is a leading cause of child mortality and morbidity worldwide. There are no precise or current estimates of the types and prevalence of pathogens associated with diarrheal illnesses in developed and developing settings. This systematic review assessed data from 60 studies published in the English language from five developing regions and developed countries worldwide to provide regional estimates of enteric pathogens affecting children. The random-effect method was used to establish the weighted average prevalence of pathogens in adults and children for each region. Significantly more pathogens were reported by studies from developing regions compared with Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries (P<0.016). The identification rates of pathogens from community based and hospital based studies were similar (58.5% and 58.1% respectively, P<0.619). The overall detection of enteric pathogens in developing countries was higher in adults (74.8%; 95% CI 63.1-83.8%) compared with children (56.7%; 95% CI 53.0-60.4%) (P<0.001). Rotavirus was the most frequently detected pathogen in all regions with the highest rate, 24.8% (95% CI 18.0-33.1%), detected in the developed countries. This systematic review is the first to provide an estimate of the prevalence of enteric pathogens associated with diarrhoeal illnesses in adults and children in developed and developing settings. While pathogen detection rate is greater in developing regions the consistently high prevalence of rotavirus in both developed and developing settings underscores the urgent need for access to rotavirus vaccines. Increased travel between developing and developed countries increases disease risk, and hence developed countries have a vested interest in supporting vaccine accessibility in developing settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M. Fletcher
- The iThree Institute and School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology, Sydney
| | | | - John T. Ellis
- The iThree Institute and School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology, Sydney
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104
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Zuccala ES, Gout AM, Dekiwadia C, Marapana DS, Angrisano F, Turnbull L, Riglar DT, Rogers KL, Whitchurch CB, Ralph SA, Speed TP, Baum J. Subcompartmentalisation of proteins in the rhoptries correlates with ordered events of erythrocyte invasion by the blood stage malaria parasite. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46160. [PMID: 23049965 PMCID: PMC3458004 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Host cell infection by apicomplexan parasites plays an essential role in lifecycle progression for these obligate intracellular pathogens. For most species, including the etiological agents of malaria and toxoplasmosis, infection requires active host-cell invasion dependent on formation of a tight junction – the organising interface between parasite and host cell during entry. Formation of this structure is not, however, shared across all Apicomplexa or indeed all parasite lifecycle stages. Here, using an in silico integrative genomic search and endogenous gene-tagging strategy, we sought to characterise proteins that function specifically during junction-dependent invasion, a class of proteins we term invasins to distinguish them from adhesins that function in species specific host-cell recognition. High-definition imaging of tagged Plasmodium falciparum invasins localised proteins to multiple cellular compartments of the blood stage merozoite. This includes several that localise to distinct subcompartments within the rhoptries. While originating from the same organelle, however, each has very different dynamics during invasion. Apical Sushi Protein and Rhoptry Neck protein 2 release early, following the junction, whilst a novel rhoptry protein PFF0645c releases only after invasion is complete. This supports the idea that organisation of proteins within a secretory organelle determines the order and destination of protein secretion and provides a localisation-based classification strategy for predicting invasin function during apicomplexan parasite invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S. Zuccala
- Infection and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander M. Gout
- Bioinformatics Divisions, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chaitali Dekiwadia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Danushka S. Marapana
- Infection and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fiona Angrisano
- Infection and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lynne Turnbull
- The ithree Institute, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David T. Riglar
- Infection and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kelly L. Rogers
- Imaging Facility, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cynthia B. Whitchurch
- The ithree Institute, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stuart A. Ralph
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Terence P. Speed
- Bioinformatics Divisions, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jake Baum
- Infection and Immunity, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
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105
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Kolling G, Wu M, Guerrant RL. Enteric pathogens through life stages. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2012; 2:114. [PMID: 22937528 PMCID: PMC3427492 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2012.00114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric infections and diarrheal diseases constitute pervasive health burdens throughout the world, with rates being highest at the two ends of life. During the first 2–3 years of life, much of the disease burden may be attributed to infection with enteric pathogens including Salmonella, rotavirus, and many other bacterial, viral, and protozoan organisms; however, infections due to Clostridium difficile exhibit steady increases with age. Still others, like Campylobacter infections in industrialized settings are high in early life (<2 years old) and increase again in early adulthood (called the “second weaning” by some). The reasons for these differences undoubtedly reside in part in pathogen differences; however, host factors including the commensal intestinal microbial communities, immune responses (innate and acquired), and age-dependant shifts likely play important roles. Interplay of these factors is illustrated by studies examining changes in human gut microbiota with inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Recent gut microbial surveys have indicated dramatic shifts in gut microbial population structure from infants to young adults to the elders. An understanding of the evolution of these factors and their interactions (e.g., how does gut microbiota modulate the “inflamm-aging” process or vice versa) through the human life “cycle” will be important in better addressing and controlling these enteric infections and their consequences for both quality and quantity of life (often assessed as disability adjusted life-years or “DALYs”).
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Affiliation(s)
- Glynis Kolling
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Center for Global Health, University of Virginia Charlottesville, VA, USA
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106
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Fletcher SM, Stark D, Harkness J, Ellis J. Enteric protozoa in the developed world: a public health perspective. Clin Microbiol Rev 2012; 25:420-49. [PMID: 22763633 PMCID: PMC3416492 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.05038-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Several enteric protozoa cause severe morbidity and mortality in both humans and animals worldwide. In developed settings, enteric protozoa are often ignored as a cause of diarrheal illness due to better hygiene conditions, and as such, very little effort is used toward laboratory diagnosis. Although these protozoa contribute to the high burden of infectious diseases, estimates of their true prevalence are sometimes affected by the lack of sensitive diagnostic techniques to detect them in clinical and environmental specimens. Despite recent advances in the epidemiology, molecular biology, and treatment of protozoan illnesses, gaps in knowledge still exist, requiring further research. There is evidence that climate-related changes will contribute to their burden due to displacement of ecosystems and human and animal populations, increases in atmospheric temperature, flooding and other environmental conditions suitable for transmission, and the need for the reuse of alternative water sources to meet growing population needs. This review discusses the common enteric protozoa from a public health perspective, highlighting their epidemiology, modes of transmission, prevention, and control. It also discusses the potential impact of climate changes on their epidemiology and the issues surrounding waterborne transmission and suggests a multidisciplinary approach to their prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Damien Stark
- School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Division of Microbiology, SydPath, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - John Harkness
- School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Division of Microbiology, SydPath, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - John Ellis
- The ithree Institute, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Medical and Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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107
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Epidemiological and clinical description of the top three reportable parasitic diseases in a Canadian community. Epidemiol Infect 2012; 141:431-42. [PMID: 22631610 PMCID: PMC3539240 DOI: 10.1017/s095026881200057x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study provides a comprehensive epidemio-clinical picture of sporadic, domestically acquired cases of amoebiasis, cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis in one Canadian community based on patient symptom, outcome and exposure data from an enhanced surveillance system. It yields valuable data for estimating the burden of those diseases including the proportion of bloody diarrhoea, hospitalization, and disease duration. Age differences were observed by incidence rate and for some clinical information and exposures to risk factors. For each of the three diseases, the animal/environment-to-person route was the most common possible main transmission route according to the exposure reported, whereas the person-to-person route was the least common. Exposure was higher for the 10–24 years age group of giardiasis cases for swimming in recreational waters (79%) and attending a barbeque (50%). Therefore, comparisons between groups of cases or extrapolation of results when estimating the burden of illness should be adjusted for age.
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108
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Austin Z, Alcock RE, Christley RM, Haygarth PM, Heathwaite AL, Latham SM, Mort M, Oliver DM, Pickup R, Wastling JM, Wynne B. Policy, practice and decision making for zoonotic disease management: water and Cryptosporidium. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2012; 40:70-78. [PMID: 22280930 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2011.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2011] [Revised: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/17/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Decision making for zoonotic disease management should be based on many forms of appropriate data and sources of evidence. However, the criteria and timing for policy response and the resulting management decisions are often altered when a disease outbreak occurs and captures full media attention. In the case of waterborne disease, such as the robust protozoa, Cryptosporidium spp, exposure can cause significant human health risks and preventing exposure by maintaining high standards of biological and chemical water quality remains a priority for water companies in the UK. Little has been documented on how knowledge and information is translated between the many stakeholders involved in the management of Cryptosporidium, which is surprising given the different drivers that have shaped management decisions. Such information, coupled with the uncertainties that surround these data is essential for improving future management strategies that minimise disease outbreaks. Here, we examine the interplay between scientific information, the media, and emergent government and company policies to examine these issues using qualitative and quantitative data relating to Cryptosporidium management decisions by a water company in the North West of England. Our results show that political and media influences are powerful drivers of management decisions if fuelled by high profile outbreaks. Furthermore, the strength of the scientific evidence is often constrained by uncertainties in the data, and in the way knowledge is translated between policy levels during established risk management procedures. In particular, under or over-estimating risk during risk assessment procedures together with uncertainty regarding risk factors within the wider environment, was found to restrict the knowledge-base for decision-making in Cryptosporidium management. Our findings highlight some key current and future challenges facing the management of such diseases that are widely applicable to other risk management situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë Austin
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, UK.
| | - Ruth E Alcock
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, UK
| | - Robert M Christley
- National Centre for Zoonosis Research, University of Liverpool Veterinary School, Leahurst, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK; Institute of Infection and Global Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZJ, UK
| | - Philip M Haygarth
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ, UK
| | | | - Sophia M Latham
- National Centre for Zoonosis Research, University of Liverpool Veterinary School, Leahurst, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK; Institute of Infection and Global Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZJ, UK
| | - Maggie Mort
- Department of Sociology and School of Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YT, UK
| | - David M Oliver
- Biological & Environmental Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK
| | - Roger Pickup
- Biomedical and Life Sciences Division, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, LA1 4YQ, UK
| | - Jonathan M Wastling
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZJ, UK
| | - Brian Wynne
- ESRC Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics, Cesagen, Lancaster University, LA1 4YD, UK
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109
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Cryptic parasite revealed improved prospects for treatment and control of human cryptosporidiosis through advanced technologies. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2012; 77:141-73. [PMID: 22137584 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-391429-3.00007-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an important genus of parasitic protozoa of humans and other vertebrates and is a major cause of intestinal disease globally. Unlike many common causes of infectious enteritis, there are no widely available, effective vaccine or drug-based intervention strategies for Cryptosporidium, and control is focused mainly on prevention. This approach is particularly deficient for infections of severely immunocompromised and/or suppressed, the elderly or malnourished people. However, cryptosporidiosis also presents a significant burden on immunocompetent individuals, and can, for example have lasting effects on the physical and mental development of children infected at an early age. In the last few decades, our understanding of Cryptosporidium has expanded significantly in numerous areas, including the parasite life-cycle, the processes of excystation, cellular invasion and reproduction, and the interplay between parasite and host. Nonetheless, despite extensive research, many aspects of the biology of Cryptosporidium remain unknown, and treatment and control are challenging. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of Cryptosporidium, with a focus on major advances arising from the recently completed genome sequences of the two species of greatest relevance in humans, namely Cryptosporidium hominis and Cryptosporidium parvum. In addition, we discuss the potential of next-generation sequencing technologies, new advances in in silico analyses and progress in in vitro culturing systems to bridge these gaps and to lead toward effective treatment and control of cryptosporidiosis.
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110
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Masarat S, Ahmad F, Chisti M, Hamid S, Sofi BA. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium species among HIV positive asymptomatic and symptomatic immigrant population in Kashmir, India. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY 2012; 4:35-9. [PMID: 22783459 PMCID: PMC3391559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Cryptosporidiosis has not been reported as an endemic disease in Kashmir, but high prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. has been found among asymptomatic (non-diarrheic) HIV positive immigrants in present study. Due to increasing number of HIV positive immigrants in Kashmir, Cryptosporidium may become a public health problem in Kashmir. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 45 stool samples were obtained from symptomatic (diarrheic n = 9) and asymptomatic (non-diarrheic n = 36) patients infected with HIV. The stool samples were concentrated using formalin ethyl acetate concentration technique, stained with modified Kinyoun's cold stain and oocysts were identified by microscopy under 1000 x magnification. It was confirmed by detection of antigens in stool samples by ELISA. RESULTS It was established that all the patients studied were carriers of Cryptosporidium. In present study though 80% of patients were asymptomatic (non-diarrheic) and HIV positive which involved non-Kashmiri army personals and travelers (immigrants) but were carriers of Cryptosporidium and 20% of HIV positive patients were emigrants (local Kashmiri traders) who travelled different states of India were having diarrhea (symptomatic) as well as carrier of Cryptosporidium. CONCLUSION Though Cryptosporidium infection causes chronic diarrhea but in present study all HIV positive patients screened whether diarrheic or non-diarrheic were positive for Cryptosporidium. To prevent the transmission of Cryptosporidium oocyst in environment and endemic spread of cryptosporidiosis as non-diarrheic HIV positive population may be potential source of infection, obligatory laboratory testing for Cryptosporidium in HIV positive immigrant population like traders and travelers is highly recommended in order to have a better understanding of the cause of spread Cryptosporidium infection in Kashmir.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Masarat
- Department of Zoology, S.P. College, M.A. Road, Srinagar
| | - F Ahmad
- P.G. Department of Zoology, University of Kashmir
| | - M Chisti
- ART centre SKIMS, Hospital, Srinagar
| | - S Hamid
- ART centre SKIMS, Hospital, Srinagar
| | - B Ahmad Sofi
- Department of Microbiology, SKIMS, Hospital, Srinagar
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111
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Ajonina C, Buzie C, Ajonina IU, Basner A, Reinhardt H, Gulyas H, Liebau E, Otterpohl R. Occurrence of Cryptosporidium in a wastewater treatment plant in North Germany. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2012; 75:1351-1358. [PMID: 23095153 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2012.721167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is one of the most common human parasitic protozoa and is responsible for many waterborne outbreaks in several industrialized countries. The oocyst, which is the infective form, is known to be highly resistant to wastewater treatment procedures and represents a potential hazard to human populations through contaminated raw or treated wastewater. In this investigation, the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in wastewater samples was monitored and removal efficiency was assessed. Treated (effluent) and untreated (influent) wastewater samples were collected seasonally over a period of 2 years. Oocysts were repeatedly detected in influent and effluent samples collected from the treatment plant during all sampling seasons, with a mean concentration of 782 oocysts/L. The seasonal distribution showed that oocysts are predominant during autumn and winter. Molecular analyses via the small (18S) subunit of rRNA amplification and subsequent sequencing with an objective of characterizing the oocysts revealed that Cryptosporidium parvum was the dominant Cryptosporidium parasite present in wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ajonina
- Institute of Wastewater Management and Water Protection, Hamburg University of Technology, Hamburg, Germany.
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112
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Artz JD, Wernimont AK, Allali-Hassani A, Zhao Y, Amani M, Lin YH, Senisterra G, Wasney GA, Fedorov O, King O, Roos A, Lunin VV, Qiu W, Finerty P, Hutchinson A, Chau I, von Delft F, MacKenzie F, Lew J, Kozieradzki I, Vedadi M, Schapira M, Zhang C, Shokat K, Heightman T, Hui R. The Cryptosporidium parvum kinome. BMC Genomics 2011; 12:478. [PMID: 21962082 PMCID: PMC3227725 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-12-478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hundreds of millions of people are infected with cryptosporidiosis annually, with immunocompromised individuals suffering debilitating symptoms and children in socioeconomically challenged regions at risk of repeated infections. There is currently no effective drug available. In order to facilitate the pursuit of anti-cryptosporidiosis targets and compounds, our study spans the classification of the Cryptosporidium parvum kinome and the structural and biochemical characterization of representatives from the CDPK family and a MAP kinase. RESULTS The C. parvum kinome comprises over 70 members, some of which may be promising drug targets. These C. parvum protein kinases include members in the AGC, Atypical, CaMK, CK1, CMGC, and TKL groups; however, almost 35% could only be classified as OPK (other protein kinases). In addition, about 25% of the kinases identified did not have any known orthologues outside of Cryptosporidium spp. Comparison of specific kinases with their Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii orthologues revealed some distinct characteristics within the C. parvum kinome, including potential targets and opportunities for drug design. Structural and biochemical analysis of 4 representatives of the CaMK group and a MAP kinase confirms features that may be exploited in inhibitor design. Indeed, screening CpCDPK1 against a library of kinase inhibitors yielded a set of the pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives (PP1-derivatives) with IC₅₀ values of < 10 nM. The binding of a PP1-derivative is further described by an inhibitor-bound crystal structure of CpCDPK1. In addition, structural analysis of CpCDPK4 identified an unprecedented Zn-finger within the CDPK kinase domain that may have implications for its regulation. CONCLUSIONS Identification and comparison of the C. parvum protein kinases against other parasitic kinases shows how orthologue- and family-based research can be used to facilitate characterization of promising drug targets and the search for new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Artz
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, MaRS South Tower, Floor 7, 101 College St, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada.
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113
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Intestinal parasitic infections in an industrialized country; a new focus on children with better DNA-based diagnostics. Parasitology 2011; 138:1492-8. [PMID: 21859503 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011001211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the isolation of parasitic DNA from faecal samples and PCR techniques, have been improved and simplified. Moreover, the introduction of real-time PCR has made it possible to multiplex different targets into one reaction. These new technical possibilities make it feasible to introduce PCR with its unsurpassed sensitivity and specificity in a routine laboratory setting for the diagnosis of intestinal parasites. Detection rates of the parasitic infections included in the PCR are increased significantly compared with microscopy. Molecular diagnostics, especially in children, reveal a possible cause of the gastrointestinal complaints in many more cases compared with conventional methods. Usually in GP patients no other pathogenic parasites are detected using microscopy and in the returning travellers additional parasites are found with microscopy in a minority of cases only. Multiplex real-time PCR offers a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic alternative for labour intensive microscopy in clinical laboratory practice. Additional diagnostic methods for the detection of parasitic infections that are not included as PCR target can be limited to a selected group of patients.
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DEL CHIERICO F, ONORI M, DI BELLA S, BORDI E, PETROSILLO N, MENICHELLA D, CACCIÒ SM, CALLEA F, PUTIGNANI L. Cases of cryptosporidiosis co-infections in AIDS patients: a correlation between clinical presentation and GP60 subgenotype lineages from aged formalin-fixed stool samples. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2011; 105:339-49. [PMID: 21929875 PMCID: PMC3176465 DOI: 10.1179/1364859411y.0000000025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2011] [Revised: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 06/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Nine cases of cryptosporidiosis co-infections in AIDS patients were clinically categorised into severe (patients 1, 3, 8 and 9), moderate (patients 4 and 5) and mild (patients 2, 6 and 7). Formalin-fixed faecal specimens from these patients were treated to obtain high quality DNA competent for amplification and sequencing of the 60-kDa glycoprotein (GP60) gene. Sequence analysis revealed that one patient was infected with Cryptosporidium hominis whereas the remaining eight patients were infected with C. parvum. Interestingly, the patients showing severe cryptosporidiosis harboured two subtypes within the C. parvum allelic family IIc (IIcA5G3 and IIcA5G3R2), whereas patients with moderate or mild infections showed various subtypes of the C. parvum allelic family IIa (IIaA14G2R1, IIaA15G2R1, IIaA17G3R1 and IIaA18G3R1). DNA extraction and genotyping of Cryptosporidium spp. is a challenging task on formalin-fixed stool samples, whose diagnostic outcome is age-dependent. The method herein reported represents a step forward routine diagnosis and improves epidemiology of HIV-related clinical cases. Due to the need to elucidate genetic richness of Cryptosporidium human isolates, this approach represents a useful tool to correlate individual differences in symptoms to subgenotyping lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- F DEL CHIERICO
- Microbiology Unit, Children’s Hospital and Research Institute ‘Bambino Gesù’, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - M ONORI
- Microbiology Unit, Children’s Hospital and Research Institute ‘Bambino Gesù’, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - S DI BELLA
- 2nd Infectious Diseases Division, National Institute for Infectious Diseases, ‘Lazzaro Spallanzani’, Via Portuense 292, 00149 Rome, Italy
| | - E BORDI
- Microbiology Unit, National Institute for Infectious Diseases, ‘Lazzaro Spallanzani’, Via Portuense 292, 00149 Rome, Italy
| | - N PETROSILLO
- 2nd Infectious Diseases Division, National Institute for Infectious Diseases, ‘Lazzaro Spallanzani’, Via Portuense 292, 00149 Rome, Italy
| | - D MENICHELLA
- Microbiology Unit, Children’s Hospital and Research Institute ‘Bambino Gesù’, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - S M CACCIÒ
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - F CALLEA
- Department of Pathology, Children’s Hospital and Research Institute ‘Bambino Gesù’, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - L PUTIGNANI
- Microbiology Unit, Children’s Hospital and Research Institute ‘Bambino Gesù’, Piazza Sant’Onofrio 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
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Challenges in understanding the immunopathogenesis of Cryptosporidium infections in humans. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2011; 30:1461-72. [PMID: 21484252 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-011-1246-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2011] [Accepted: 03/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Water and foodborne enteric cryptosporidiosis is a globally emerging public health issue. Although the clinical manifestations of enteric cryptosporidiosis are generally limited to intestinal infection and subsequent diarrhoea, extra-intestinal invasion has also been diagnosed in immunocompromised individuals, particularly in those infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or AIDS. Due to an inadequate understanding of Cryptosporidium immunopathogenesis in humans, the development of vaccines or therapeutic agents and their application in diseases management is difficult. Current therapeutic measures are not fully effective in the treatment of the disease. Therefore, the implementation of strategies designed to control the chain of cryptosporidiosis transmission (environment ↔ human ↔ food/water ↔ animal) is a critical but challenging issue to public health authorities across the world. Several excellent studies have been done on innate, acquired and mucosal immunity against Cryptosporidium infections using animal models, in vitro human cell lines and human volunteers. However, there are still multiple challenges in understanding the intestinal immune response (immunopathogenesis) to Cryptosporidium infection in humans. This paper reviews recent updates on immunopathogenesis and immune responses to Cryptosporidium infection in humans, while also discussing the current limitations that exist regarding a precise understanding of the immunopathological mechanisms.
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