1
|
Ashrafi K, Shekari M, Sharifdini M, Mahmoudi MR, Atrkar Roshan Z, Rahmati B, Rezvani SM, Omidvar A, Mirjalali H. Current status of intestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors in rural population of Guilan province, northern Iran: trichostrongyliasis is the most prevalent helminthic infection. GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY FROM BED TO BENCH 2024; 17:187-197. [PMID: 38994509 PMCID: PMC11234483 DOI: 10.22037/ghfbb.v17i2.2893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to determine the distribution of enteric parasitic infections and related risk factors among rural communities of Guilan province, Northern Iran, and to compare the results with the situation in the past. Background Intestinal parasitic infections are still considered as a major public health concern, particularly in human communities with poor economy and sanitation. Methods This cross-sectional study was performed in rural areas of Masal and Shanderman district from February to December 2020. A total of 917 stool samples were collected and examined for presence of intestinal helminthes and protozoa using direct, formalin-ether and Kato-Katz techniques. Results A total of 156 (17%) out of 917 examined individuals were infected with intestinal parasites. The overall prevalence of protozoa, helminths and mixed infections were 11.8% (108/917), 4.5% (41/917) and 0.8% (7/917), respectively. Blastocystis was the most prevalent intestinal protozoa (9.6%) followed by Giardia lamblia (1.9%), Endolimax nana (1.1%), E. coli (0.8%) and Entamoeba hartmani (0.1%). The highest prevalence of intestinal helminths belonged to Trichostongylus spp. (3.5%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (1.3%). Statistical analysis showed significant association between giardiasis and sex (P<0.03). On the other hand, prevalence of enteric helminths was influenced by close contact with livestock, keeping herbivorous animals at home, job, education, and consumption of uncooked vegetables (P<0.05). Conclusion The findings indicate a decreasing trend in the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in Guilan province in comparison to the past few decades. Hookworm infections, which was very prevalent in the area, are now rare, while trichostrongylosis showed a high prevalence in rural residents of the study area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyhan Ashrafi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Maryam Shekari
- Student Research Committee, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Meysam Sharifdini
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Mahmoudi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Zahra Atrkar Roshan
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Behnaz Rahmati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Sayed Mahmoud Rezvani
- Department of Communicable Diseases Control, Guilan province Health Center, Rasht, Iran
| | - Arya Omidvar
- Masal and Shanderman Health Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gholami MH, Rassouli A, Mirzaei S, Hashemi F. The potential immunomodulatory effect of levamisole in humans and farm animals. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2023; 10:620-629. [PMID: 38370882 PMCID: PMC10868701 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2023.j717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This study conducted a literature review to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of levamisole in both humans and farm animals. The following procedure was followed for database searching: PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. All research works were updated to September 2022. The terms used in the literature search were included: ("levamisole" OR "immunity" OR "immune system") AND ("adjuvant" OR "fish" OR "poultry" OR "farm animal" OR "cattle" OR "sheep"). The current review enlightens the extensive potential of levamisole as an adjuvant immunotherapeutic agent and explains its divergent applications beyond its antiparasitic use as an adjuvant, dietary supplement, immunostimulant, antiviral, and anti-cancer drug in humans and farm animals. In the articles examined, various mechanisms have been proposed for levamisole immunoprotective effects, but hormonal alteration and stress hormone reduction are indicated as the main mechanisms in various animal species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Rassouli
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Hashemi
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang X, Sicalo Gianechini L, Li K, Kaplan RM, Witola WH. Broad-Spectrum Inhibitors for Conserved Unique Phosphoethanolamine Methyltransferases in Parasitic Nematodes Possess Anthelmintic Efficacy. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2023; 67:e0000823. [PMID: 37212658 PMCID: PMC10269165 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00008-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, nematode infections are prevalent in developing countries, causing long-term ill health, particularly in children. Worldwide, nematode infections are prevalent in livestock and pets, affecting productivity and health. Anthelmintic drugs are the primary means of controlling nematodes, but there is now high prevalence of anthelmintic resistance, requiring urgent identification of new molecular targets for anthelmintics with novel mechanisms of action. Here, we identified orthologous genes for phosphoethanolamine methyltransferases (PMTs) in nematodes within the families Trichostrongylidae, Dictyocaulidae, Chabertiidae, Ancylostomatoidea, and Ascarididae. We characterized these putative PMTs and found that they possess bona fide PMT catalytic activities. By complementing a mutant yeast strain lacking the ability to synthesize phosphatidylcholine, the PMTs were validated to catalyze the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine. Using an in vitro phosphoethanolamine methyltransferase assay with PMTs as enzymes, we identified compounds with cross-inhibitory effects against the PMTs. Corroboratively, treatment of PMT-complemented yeast with the PMT inhibitors blocked growth of the yeast, underscoring the essential role of the PMTs in phosphatidylcholine synthesis. Fifteen of the inhibitors with the highest activity against complemented yeast were tested against Haemonchus contortus using larval development and motility assays. Among them, four were found to possess potent anthelmintic activity against both multiple drug-resistant and susceptible isolates of H. contortus, with IC50 values (95% confidence interval) of 4.30 μM (2.15-8.28), 4.46 μM (3.22-6.16), 28.7 μM (17.3-49.5), and 0.65 μM (0.21-1.88). Taken together, we have validated a molecular target conserved in a broad range of nematodes and identified its inhibitors that possess potent in vitro anthelmintic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuejin Zhang
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | | | - Kun Li
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ray M. Kaplan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Pathobiology Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George’s University, Grenada, West Indies
| | - William H. Witola
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abstract
In most organisms, the whole genome is maintained throughout the life span. However, exceptions occur in some species where the genome is reduced during development through a process known as programmed DNA elimination (PDE). In the human and pig parasite Ascaris, PDE occurs during the 4 to 16 cell stages of embryogenesis, when germline chromosomes are fragmented and specific DNA sequences are reproducibly lost in all somatic cells. PDE was identified in Ascaris over 120 years ago, but little was known about its molecular details until recently. Genome sequencing revealed that approximately 1,000 germline-expressed genes are eliminated in Ascaris, suggesting PDE is a gene silencing mechanism. All germline chromosome ends are removed and remodeled during PDE. In addition, PDE increases the number of chromosomes in the somatic genome by splitting many germline chromosomes. Comparative genomics indicates that these germline chromosomes arose from fusion events. PDE separates these chromosomes at the fusion sites. These observations indicate that PDE plays a role in chromosome karyotype and evolution. Furthermore, comparative analysis of PDE in other parasitic and free-living nematodes illustrates conserved features of PDE, suggesting it has important biological significance. We summarize what is known about PDE in Ascaris and its relatives. We also discuss other potential functions, mechanisms, and the evolution of PDE in these parasites of humans and animals of veterinary importance.
Collapse
|
5
|
Mationg MLS, Williams GM, Tallo VL, Olveda RM, Aung E, Alday P, Reñosa MD, Daga CM, Landicho J, Demonteverde MP, Santos ED, Bravo TA, Bourke S, Munira SL, Bieri FA, Li YS, Clements AC, Steinmann P, Halton K, Stewart DE, McManus DP, Gray DJ. Cost analysis for "The Magic Glasses Philippines" health education package to prevent intestinal worm infections among Filipino schoolchildren. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 31:100597. [PMID: 36879776 PMCID: PMC9985036 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are a significant public health problem affecting over 900 million people globally. Health education has been shown to complement mass drug administration (MDA) for the control of these intestinal worms. We reported recently results of a cluster randomised control trial (RCT) showing the positive impact of the "The Magic Glasses Philippines (MGP)" health education package in reducing STH infections among schoolchildren in intervention schools with ≤15% STH baseline prevalence in Laguna province, the Philippines. To inform decision making on the economic implications of the MGP, we evaluated the in-trial costs and then quantified the costs of scaling up the intervention both regionally and nationally. METHODS Costs were determined for the MGP RCT conducted in 40 schools in Laguna province. We estimated the total cost and the costs incurred per student for the actual RCT and the total costs for regional and national scale-up in all schools regardless of STH endemicity. The costs associated with the implementation of standard health education (SHE) activities and mass drug administration (MDA) were determined with a public sector perspective. FINDINGS The cost per participating student in the MGP RCT was Php 58.65 (USD 1.15) but if teachers instead of research staff had been involved, the estimated cost would have been considerably lower at Php 39.45 (USD 0.77). Extrapolating the costs for regional scale-up, the costs per student were estimated to be Php 15.24 (USD 0.30). As it is scaled up at the national level to include more schoolchildren, the estimated cost was increased at Php 17.46 (USD 0.34). In scenario 2 and 3, consistently, labour/salary costs associated with the delivery of the MGP contributed most to overall programme expenditure. Furthermore, the estimated average cost per student for SHE and MDA were Php 117.34 (USD 2.30) and Php 58.17 (USD 1.14), respectively. Using national scale up estimates, the cost of combining the MGP with SHE and MDA was Php 192.97 (USD 3.79). INTERPRETATION These findings suggest that the integration of MGP into the school curriculum would be an affordable and scalable approach to respond to the continuous burden of STH infection among schoolchildren in the Philippines. FUNDING National and Medical Research Council, Australia, and the UBS-Optimus Foundation, Switzerland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lorraine S. Mationg
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gail M. Williams
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Veronica L. Tallo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Remigio M. Olveda
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eindra Aung
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Portia Alday
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mark Donald Reñosa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Chona Mae Daga
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jhoys Landicho
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Maria Paz Demonteverde
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eunice Diane Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Thea Andrea Bravo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Siobhan Bourke
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Syarifah Liza Munira
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Franziska Angly Bieri
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Yuesheng S. Li
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Hunan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Control on Schistosomiasis in Lake Region, Yueyang, China
| | | | - Peter Steinmann
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kate Halton
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Donald E. Stewart
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Darren J. Gray
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
The worldwide prevalence of intestinal helminthic parasites among food handlers: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Food Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2023.109658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
|
7
|
Jayakody NK, Kumbukgahadeniya PL, Silva A, Wickramasinghe ND, Wickramasinghe S, McManus DP, Weerakoon KG. The accuracy of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) in detecting human intestinal nematode infections: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278920. [PMID: 36508427 PMCID: PMC9744273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human intestinal nematode infections are a global public health issue as they can result in considerable morbidity in infected individuals, mainly in developing countries. These infections continue to go undiagnosed, as they tend to be mainly endemic in resource-poor communities where there is a shortage of experienced laboratory staff and relevant diagnostic technologies. This is further exacerbated by the nature of intermittent shedding of eggs and larvae by these parasites. Diagnostic methods range from simple morphological identification to more specialised high-throughput sequencing technologies. Microscopy-based methods, although simple, are labour-intensive and considerably less sensitive than molecular methods which are rapid and have high levels of accuracy. Molecular methods use nucleic acid amplification (NAA) to amplify the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or ribonucleic acid (RNA) fragments of the parasite to detect and determine its presence using different technologies (NAAT). They have increased the sensitivity of detection and quantitation of intestinal nematode infections, especially in low infection intensity settings. The absence of a gold standard test limits current diagnosis and, in turn, restricts intervention measures and effective control efforts. The objective of this review is to determine the accuracy of NAATs in detecting human intestinal nematode infections using Kato-Katz as the reference test for the most common soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections and the scotch tape test for enterobiasis and Baermann method for strongyloidiasis. Relevant studies will be identified by searches in electronic databases. Two reviewers will independently screen the literature against eligibility criteria. The methodological quality of studies will then be appraised by two reviewers using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. Discrepancies will be addressed by a third reviewer. The true positives, false positives, true negatives and false negatives of all the studies will be extracted into contingency tables. In paired forest plots, study-specific sensitivity and specificity with a 95 per cent confidence interval will be displayed. The systematic review of this protocol will report the diagnostic accuracy of currently available NAATs for the detection of human intestinal nematode infections. This will help healthcare providers and administrators determine the diagnostic method to be used in different clinical and preventive settings. Trial registration: PROSPERO registration number for this protocol is CRD42022315730.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nalini Kaushalya Jayakody
- Faulty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, Kuliyapitiya, Sri Lanka
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- * E-mail: (KGW); (NKJ)
| | | | - Anjana Silva
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Nuwan Darshana Wickramasinghe
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Department of Community Medicine, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Susiji Wickramasinghe
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Kosala Gayan Weerakoon
- Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail: (KGW); (NKJ)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Co-infection patterns of vector-borne zoonotic pathogens in owned free-ranging dogs in central Chile. Vet Res Commun 2022; 47:575-585. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-10009-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractWe investigated the co-occurrence of the nine of the most relevant canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBP) using conventional and real-time PCR and evaluated risk factors and potential non-apparent haematological alterations associated with co-infection in 111 rural, owned, free-ranging dogs in the Metropolitan Region of Chile.At least one pathogen was detected in 75% of the dogs. DNA of Anaplasma platys (Ap; 36%), Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (CMhp; 31%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (Mhc; 28%), Trypanosoma cruzi (17%), Leishmania spp. (4.5%), and Acanthocheilonema reconditum (1%) was detected. All dogs were negative for Ehrlichia spp., Rickettsia spp., Bartonella spp., Piroplasmida, and Hepatozoon spp. Thirty-eight dogs (34%) were coinfected. CMhp was involved in 71%, Mhc in 58%, and Ap in 50% of the co-infections. The most common co-infection pattern was CMhp–Mhc (37% of the cases). The prevalence of Ap was higher in juvenile than in adult dogs, whereas the opposite was found for CMhp and Mhc. Adult dogs were four times more likely of being co-infected than juveniles. Co-infected animals showed higher white blood cell count, segmented neutrophil count, and GGT levels than non-co-infected dogs. Clinically healthy but infected dogs may act as reservoirs of CVBP, and their free-ranging behavior would facilitate the spread of these pathogens to other dogs as well as human beings or wild carnivores.
Collapse
|
9
|
Chopra P, Shekhar S, Dagar VK, Pandey S. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Soil-Transmitted Helminthic Infections in the Pediatric Population in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Lab Physicians 2022; 15:4-19. [PMID: 37064993 PMCID: PMC10104723 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1751319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractSoil-transmitted helminths (STH) is a major healthcare challenge in the pediatric age group affecting poor and deprived parts of our community. The main species that infect people are roundworm (AL, Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworm (TT, Trichuris trichiura), and hookworms (HW, Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus). We aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of STH infections in India in the pediatric age group (< 18 years) and assess the risk factors associated with STH in this age group. Three databases were searched (PubMed, Scopus, and Embase) up to February 16, 2021 with deliberate and inclusive search terms for original research articles estimating the prevalence of either of the three STH in India. Data extracted included individual prevalence of the three STH, prevalence of double or triple infections, and associated risk factors.We identified systematically 1,408 publications, of which 44 were included for the final analysis, including studies from 20 states covering 34,590 children. In our study, the prevalence of AL ranged from 0.8 to 91% with a pooled prevalence of 25%, prevalence of TT ranged from 0.3 to 72% with a pooled prevalence of 13%, and for HW prevalence ranged from 0.2 to 80% with pooled prevalence of 10%. Two most important risk factors with higher odds ratio were open defecation practices or open latrine (odds ratio: 5.2) and washing hands without soap using water only (odds ratio: 2.49). Knowledge of areas with high prevalence of STH and associated risk factors would help in designing effective control strategies in the high-risk groups to prevent infection and aid in a drastic reduction of morbidity in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parul Chopra
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sudhanshu Shekhar
- Department of Pathology/Lab Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalyani, West Bengal, India
| | | | - Shivam Pandey
- Department of Biostatistics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mesfun MG, Fuchs A, Holtfreter MC, Tufa TB, Orth HM, Luedde T, Feldt T. The implementation of the Kinyoun staining technique in a resource-limited setting is feasible and reveals a high prevalence of intestinal cryptosporidiosis in HIV patients. Int J Infect Dis 2022; 122:130-135. [PMID: 35562040 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In resource-limited settings, intestinal Cryptosporidia or coccidian infections are common causes of chronic diarrhoea, but usually remain undiagnosed by routine stool investigation. Here, the addition of the Kinyoun staining technique after stool concentration was evaluated as an easy and inexpensive method for diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infection in HIV-infected patients. METHODS This cross-sectional study investigated HIV-infected patients with diarrhoea and randomly selected HIV-infected patients without diarrhoea as controls. Stool samples were examined by wet mount microscopy and Kinyoun staining after stool concentration. Clinical, sociodemographic and behavioural data were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-squared test and multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS In total, 163 participants were included (62.0% female, mean age 38.2 [SD ±10.7] years). Diarrhoea was present in 52.1% (85/163). The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 18.4% (30/163). Cryptosporidia infections were more frequent among patients with diarrhoea (12.9% [11/85] vs. 1.3% [1/78], p=0.005) and in patients with CD4+ cell count <200 cells/µL (25.9% [7/27] vs. 3.7% [5/136], p=0.001). Risk factors for intestinal parasitic infections were diarrhoea and the habit of regularly eating uncooked food. Kinyoun staining was necessary for detection of cryptosporidiosis. CONCLUSION In our cohort, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was high, especially after additional utilization of Kinyoun staining for detection of Cryptosporidia or intestinal coccidia. Considering its clinical relevance particularly in individuals at risk, the implementation of this technique should be considered in resource-limited settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Million Getachew Mesfun
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany; College of Health Sciences, Arsi University, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia.
| | - Andre Fuchs
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia; Internal Medicine III - Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Augsburg, Stenglinstr. 2, 86156 Augsburg, Germany
| | - Martha Charlotte Holtfreter
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Tafese Beyene Tufa
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany; College of Health Sciences, Arsi University, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia
| | - Hans Martin Orth
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Tom Luedde
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Torsten Feldt
- Hirsch Institute of Tropical Medicine, P.O. Box 04, Asella, Ethiopia; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Moorenstr. 5, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tapia-Vázquez I, Montoya-Martínez AC, De Los Santos-Villalobos S, Ek-Ramos MJ, Montesinos-Matías R, Martínez-Anaya C. Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) a threat to agriculture in Mexico: biology, current control strategies, and perspectives. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 38:26. [PMID: 34989897 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-021-03211-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Root-knot nematodes (RKN) are sedentary parasites of the roots of plants and are considered some of the most damaging pests in agriculture. Since RKN target the root vascular system, they provoke host nutrient deprivation and defective water transport, causing above-ground symptoms of growth stunting, wilting, chlorosis, and reduced crop yields. In Mexico RKN infestations are primarily dealt with by treating with synthetic chemically based nematicides that are preferred by farmers over available bioproducts. However, due to environmental and human health concerns chemical control is increasingly restricted. Biological control of RKNs can help reduce the use of chemical nematicides as it is achieved with antagonistic organisms, mainly bacteria, fungi, other nematodes, or consortia of diverse microorganisms, which control nematodes directly by predation and parasitism at different stages: eggs, juveniles, or adults; or indirectly by the action of toxic diffusible inhibitory metabolites. The need to increase agricultural production and reduce negative environmental impact creates an opportunity for optimizing biological control agents to suppress nematode populations, but this endeavour remains challenging as researchers around the world try to understand diverse control mechanisms, nematode and microbe life cycles, ecology, metabolite production, predatory behaviours, molecular and biochemical interactions, in order to generate attractive products with the approval of local regulatory bodies. Here, we provide a brief review of the biology of the genus Meloidogyne, biological control strategies, and a comparison between chemical and bioproducts in the Mexican market, and guidelines emitted by national agencies to ensure safety and effectiveness of new developments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irán Tapia-Vázquez
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Av. Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, 62210, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Amelia C Montoya-Martínez
- Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (ITSON), 5 de Febrero 818 Sur, Centro, 85000, Ciudad Obregón, Sonora, Mexico
| | | | - María J Ek-Ramos
- Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Av. Pedro de Alba S/N, 66455, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Roberto Montesinos-Matías
- SENASICA, Centro Nacional de Referencia de Control Biológico, Km 1.5 Carretera Tecomán-Estación FFCC, Tepeyac, 28110, Tecomán, Colima, Mexico
| | - Claudia Martínez-Anaya
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Av. Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, 62210, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lucas CJ, Morrison TE. Animal models of alphavirus infection and human disease. Adv Virus Res 2022; 113:25-88. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.aivir.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
|
13
|
Hasan MM, Magalhaes RJS, Ahmed S, Pervin S, Tariqujjaman M, Fatima Y, Mamun AA. Geographical variation and temporal trend in anemia among children aged 6-59 months in low- and middle-income countries during 2000-2018: forecasting the 2030 SDG target. Public Health Nutr 2021; 24:6236-6246. [PMID: 34103114 PMCID: PMC11148617 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980021002482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine geographical variations, trends and projections in the prevalence of childhood anemia at national and subpopulation levels. DESIGN Repeated cross-sectional Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted during 2000-2018. SETTING Fifty-three low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). PARTICIPANTS Totally, 776 689 children aged 6-59 months. RESULTS During the latest DHS rounds between 2005 and 2018, the prevalence of child anemia was > 20 % in fifty-two out of fifty-three countries and ranged from 15·9 % in Armenia in 2016 to 87·8 % in Burkina Faso in 2010. Out of thirty-six countries with at least two surveys during 2000-2018, the prevalence of child anemia decreased in twenty-two countries, highest in Zimbabwe (-4·2 %) and increased in fourteen countries, highest in Burundi (5·0 %). Based on the trend, eleven and twenty-two out of thirty-six countries are projected to experience, respectively, moderate and severe public health problem according to the WHO criteria (moderate problem: 20-39·9 % and severe problem: ≥ 40 %) due to child anemia in 2030, with the highest prevalence in Liberia (87·5 %, 95 % credible interval 52·0-98·8 %). The prevalence of child anemia varied across the mother's education and age, child sex, wealth quintiles, and place of residence, with the highest rate of child anemia among the poorest, rural and low-educated mothers. These scenarios are projected to continue. The probability of reducing child anemia at < 0·5 % by 2030 is 0 % for all study countries. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of child anemia varied between and within countries. None of the thirty-six LMIC is likely to eradicate child anemia by 2030.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Mehedi Hasan
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD4068, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families Over the Life Course (The Life Course Centre), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| | - Ricardo J Soares Magalhaes
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
- UQ Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Saifuddin Ahmed
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Bill and Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sonia Pervin
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD4068, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families Over the Life Course (The Life Course Centre), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| | - Md Tariqujjaman
- Department of Statistics, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Nutrition and Clinical Services Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Yaqoot Fatima
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD4068, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families Over the Life Course (The Life Course Centre), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University, Mount Isa, QLD, Australia
| | - Abdullah A Mamun
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD4068, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families Over the Life Course (The Life Course Centre), The University of Queensland, Indooroopilly, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mationg MLS, Williams GM, Tallo VL, Olveda RM, Aung E, Alday P, Reñosa MD, Daga CM, Landicho J, Demonteverde MP, Santos ED, Bravo TA, Bieri FA, Li Y, Clements ACA, Steinmann P, Halton K, Stewart DE, McManus DP, Gray DJ. Soil-transmitted helminth infections and nutritional indices among Filipino schoolchildren. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0010008. [PMID: 34936644 PMCID: PMC8694453 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are still prevalent among schoolchildren in the Philippines. We evaluated the risk factors associated with STH and the relationship between STH and nutritional indices among schoolchildren aged 9-10 years in Laguna province, the Philippines. METHODS We used the baseline data from 40 schools enrolled in a randomised controlled trial of the Magic Glasses Philippines health education package. Data on demographic and socio-economic variables, and STH related knowledge, attitudes and practices, were obtained through a questionnaire. Stool samples were collected and assessed for STH egg presence using the Kato-Katz technique. Haemoglobin levels and height and weight of study participants were also determined. The generalized estimating equations approach was used to construct logistic regression models to assess STH-associated risk factors, and the association between any STH infection and anaemia, child stunting, wasting and being underweight. The trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616000508471). FINDINGS Among 1,689 schoolchildren, the prevalence of any STH was 23%. The prevalence of anaemia, stunting, being underweight and wasting was 13%, 20.2%, 19% and 9.5%, respectively. Age, socio-economic status, rural/urban classification of schools and knowledge of STH were significant risk factors for acquiring a STH infection. Moreover, infections with any STH were significantly associated with stunting (P = <0.001) and being underweight (P = <0.003), but not wasting (P = 0.375) or anaemia (P = 0.462) after controlling for confounding covariates. CONCLUSION The study findings emphasise the need for sustainable deworming in tandem with other measures such as the provision of health education, improvements in sanitation and hygiene, and nutritional programs in order to control STH infections and improve morbidity outcomes in schoolchildren. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616000508471).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lorraine S. Mationg
- Research School of Population Heath, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gail M. Williams
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Veronica L. Tallo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Remigio M. Olveda
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eindra Aung
- Research School of Population Heath, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- St Vincent’s Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Portia Alday
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mark Donald Reñosa
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Chona Mae Daga
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jhoys Landicho
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Maria Paz Demonteverde
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Eunice Diane Santos
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Thea Andrea Bravo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Franziska Angly Bieri
- Research School of Population Heath, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Yuesheng Li
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Hunan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Research and Control on Schistosomiasis in Lake Region, Yueyang, China
| | | | - Peter Steinmann
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kate Halton
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Donald E. Stewart
- Research School of Population Heath, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Darren J. Gray
- Research School of Population Heath, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
An investigation on the epidemiology and risk factors associated with soil-transmitted helminth infections in Ijebu East Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2021.e00757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
|
16
|
Vieira-Santos F, Leal-Silva T, de Lima Silva Padrão L, Ruas ACL, Nogueira DS, Kraemer L, Oliveira FMS, Caliari MV, Russo RC, Fujiwara RT, Bueno LL. Concomitant experimental coinfection by Plasmodium berghei NK65-NY and Ascaris suum downregulates the Ascaris-specific immune response and potentiates Ascaris-associated lung pathology. Malar J 2021; 20:296. [PMID: 34210332 PMCID: PMC8248286 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03824-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ascariasis and malaria are highly prevalent parasitic diseases in tropical regions and often have overlapping endemic areas, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates in areas with poor sanitary conditions. Several studies have previously aimed to correlate the effects of Ascaris-Plasmodium coinfections but have obtained contradictory and inconclusive results. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate parasitological and immunopathological aspects of the lung during murine experimental concomitant coinfection by Plasmodium berghei and Ascaris suum during larvae ascariasis. Methods C57BL/6J mice were inoculated with 1 × 104P. berghei strain NK65-NY-infected red blood cells (iRBCs) intraperitoneally and/or 2500 embryonated eggs of A. suum by oral gavage. P. berghei parasitaemia, morbidity and the survival rate were assessed. On the seventh day postinfection (dpi), A. suum lung burden analysis; bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL); histopathology; NAG, MPO and EPO activity measurements; haematological analysis; and respiratory mechanics analysis were performed. The concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-12/IL-23p40, IL-6, IL-4, IL-33, IL-13, IL-5, IL-10, IL-17A, IFN-γ, TNF and TGF-β were assayed by sandwich ELISA. Results Animals coinfected with P. berghei and A. suum show decreased production of type 1, 2, and 17 and regulatory cytokines; low leukocyte recruitment in the tissue; increased cellularity in the circulation; and low levels of NAG, MPO and EPO activity that lead to an increase in larvae migration, as shown by the decrease in larvae recovered in the lung parenchyma and increase in larvae recovered in the airway. This situation leads to severe airway haemorrhage and, consequently, an impairment respiratory function that leads to high morbidity and early mortality. Conclusions This study demonstrates that the Ascaris-Plasmodium interaction is harmful to the host and suggests that this coinfection may potentiate Ascaris-associated pathology by dampening the Ascaris-specific immune response, resulting in the early death of affected animals. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12936-021-03824-w.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flaviane Vieira-Santos
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thaís Leal-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiza de Lima Silva Padrão
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina Loiola Ruas
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Denise Silva Nogueira
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucas Kraemer
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Marcus Silva Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Vidigal Caliari
- Laboratory of Protozooses, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of General Pathology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Remo Castro Russo
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Immunology and Mechanics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lilian Lacerda Bueno
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Butte G, Niwagaba C, Nordin A. Assessing the microbial risk of faecal sludge use in Ugandan agriculture by comparing field and theoretical model output. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 197:117068. [PMID: 33845279 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Reuse of faecal sludge in agriculture has many potential benefits, but also poses risks to human health. To better understand the potential risks, Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) was performed for three population groups in Kampala, Uganda: wastewater and faecal sludge treatment plant workers; farmers using faecal sludge; and consumers of faecal sludge-fertilised vegetables. Two models were applied for farmers and consumers, one based on pathogen concentrations from field sampling of sludge, soils and vegetables, and one based on theoretical pathogen contribution from the last sludge application, including decay and soil to crop transfer of pathogens. The risk was evaluated for two pathogens (enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) and Ascaris lumbricoides). The field data on sludge, soil and vegetables indicated that the last application of faecal sludge was not the sole pathogen source. Correspondingly, the model using field data resulted in higher risks for farmers and consumers than the theoretical model assuming risk from sludge only, except when negligible for both. For farmers, the yearly risk of illness, based on measured concentrations, was 26% from EHEC and 70% from Ascaris, compared with 1.2% and 1.4%, respectively, considering the theoretically assumed contribution from the sludge. For consumers, the risk of illness based on field samples was higher from consumption of leafy vegetables (100% from EHEC, 99% from Ascaris) than from consumption of cabbages (negligible for EHEC, 26% from Ascaris). With the theoretical model, the risk of illness from EHEC was negligible for both crops, whereas the risk of illness from Ascaris was 64% and 16% for leafy vegetables and cabbage, respectively. For treatment plant workers, yearly risk of illness was 100% from EHEC and 99.4% from Ascaris. Mitigation practices evaluated could reduce the relative risk by 30-70%. These results can help guide treatment and use of faecal sludge in Kampala, to protect plant workers, farmers and consumers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Butte
- School of Engineering, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon, Tyne, UK
| | - C Niwagaba
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere University, P. O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - A Nordin
- Department of Energy and Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7032, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden..
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zendejas-Heredia PA, Colella V, Hii SF, Traub RJ. Comparison of the egg recovery rates and limit of detection for soil-transmitted helminths using the Kato-Katz thick smear, faecal flotation and quantitative real-time PCR in human stool. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009395. [PMID: 34038411 PMCID: PMC8153506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Monitoring the success of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) control programs relies on accurate diagnosis and quantitative assessment of infection prevalence and intensity. As preventative chemotherapeutic program coverage for STH expands, the necessity of gaining insights into the relative or comparative sensitivities, in terms of limits of detection (LOD) and egg-recovery-rates (ERR) for microscopy and quantitative polymerase chain reaction qPCR-based diagnostic techniques becomes imperative to inform suitability for their intended use for large scale STH monitoring and treatment efficacy studies. Methodology/Principal findings The diagnostic performance in terms of ERR and LOD of the Kato-Katz (KK) thick smear technique, sodium nitrate (NaNO3) faecal floatation (FF) and qPCR for the accurate detection and enumeration of STH eggs were calculated and expressed in eggs per gram (EPG), by experimentally seeding parasite-free human faeces with Ascaris spp., Trichuris spp. and Necator americanus eggs representing low, medium and high intensity infections. The efficiency of NaNO3 flotation was also calculated over a range of specific gravities (SpGr) for the optimum recovery of STH eggs. FF of SpGr 1.30 recovered 62.7%, 11% and 8.7% more Trichuris spp., Necator americanus and Ascaris spp. eggs respectively, than the recommended SpGr of 1.20. All diagnostic methods demonstrated strong direct correlation to the intensity of seeded EPG. KK and FF (SpGr 1.30) resulted in significant lower ERRs compared to qPCR (p <0.05). qPCR demonstrated significantly (p <0.05) greater sensitivity with an ability to detect as little as 5 EPG for all three STH, compared to 50 EPG by KK and FF (SpGr 1.30). Conclusions/Significance This study compares the diagnostic parameters in terms of LOD and ERRs of STHs for the KK, FF and qPCR. These results indicate that the diagnostic performance of qPCR assays should be considered by control programs in the phase that aims to seek confirmation of transmission break and cessation of preventive chemotherapy in low-transmission settings, in line with the control targets of the WHO neglected tropical diseases 2030 Roadmap. STH infections predominately affect resource-poor communities and negatively impact on child and maternal health. Diagnostics play a critical role in guiding and informing existing STH control programs and the implementation and evaluation of intervention strategies. The KK technique is most commonly used as per WHO guidelines and is the basis for determining quantitative thresholds for low, moderate and heavy infections. More recently, FF and laboratory-based quantitative PCR techniques have provided alternative options of diagnosing STH infections. A number of studies correlating the relative sensitivity, diagnostic agreement, and egg enumeration of these techniques by comparing field-generated diagnostic data have attempted to correlate quantitative outputs to those defined by the WHO, with little resolution. Moreover, as large-scale deworming programs levels scale up, the necessity to apply techniques that can precisely detect light infections is of outmost importance to establish preventive chemotherapy end-points using more accurate means. In this study we compared the LOD and ERR of seeded non-infected human faecal samples with Ascaris, Trichuris and Necator spp. eggs using KK, FF and qPCR. When compared to copro-microscopy methods, qPCR showed the highest sensitivity for the detection of light-intensity infections and was more accurate in enumerating the original number of eggs per gram of seeded faeces. In addition to this, the results indicated that the diagnostic performance of both KK and FF (using solution at a SpGr of 1.30) were equally efficient and should be considered with their diagnostic limitations in mind, when aiming to monitor STH infections in low-transmission settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patsy A. Zendejas-Heredia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Vito Colella
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sze Fui Hii
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Montaño KJ, Cuéllar C, Sotillo J. Rodent Models for the Study of Soil-Transmitted Helminths: A Proteomics Approach. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:639573. [PMID: 33968800 PMCID: PMC8100317 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.639573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) affect hundreds of millions worldwide and are some of the most important neglected tropical diseases in terms of morbidity. Due to the difficulty in studying STH human infections, rodent models have become increasingly used, mainly because of their similarities in life cycle. Ascaris suum and Trichuris muris have been proven appropriate and low maintenance models for the study of ascariasis and trichuriasis. In the case of hookworms, despite most of the murine models do not fully reproduce the life cycle of Necator americanus, their proteomic similarity makes them highly suitable for the development of novel vaccine candidates and for the study of hookworm biological features. Furthermore, these models have been helpful in elucidating some basic aspects of our immune system, and are currently being used by numerous researchers to develop novel molecules with immunomodulatory proteins. Herein we review the similarities in the proteomic composition between Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri and Trichuris muris and their respective human counterpart with a focus on the vaccine candidates and immunomodulatory proteins being currently studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen J Montaño
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Cuéllar
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Magalhães L, Nogueira DS, Gazzinelli-Guimarães PH, Oliveira FMS, Kraemer L, Gazzinelli-Guimarães AC, Vieira-Santos F, Fujiwara RT, Bueno LL. Immunological underpinnings of Ascaris infection, reinfection and co-infection and their associated co-morbidities. Parasitology 2021; 148:1-10. [PMID: 33843506 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Human ascariasis is the most common and prevalent neglected tropical disease and is estimated that ~819 million people are infected around the globe, accounting for 0.861 million years of disability-adjusted life years in 2017. Even with the existence of highly effective drugs, the constant presence of infective parasite eggs in the environment contribute to a high reinfection rate after treatment. Due to its high prevalence and broad geographic distribution Ascaris infection is associated with a variety of co-morbidities and co-infections. Here, we provide data from both experimental models and humans studies that illustrate how complex is the interaction of Ascaris with the host immune system, especially, in the context of reinfections, co-infections and associated co-morbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Magalhães
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Denise S Nogueira
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Pedro H Gazzinelli-Guimarães
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Fabricio M S Oliveira
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lucas Kraemer
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Flaviane Vieira-Santos
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lilian L Bueno
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wang J. Genomics of the Parasitic Nematode Ascaris and Its Relatives. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:493. [PMID: 33800545 PMCID: PMC8065839 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nematodes of the genus Ascaris are important parasites of humans and swine, and the phylogenetically related genera (Parascaris, Toxocara, and Baylisascaris) infect mammals of veterinary interest. Over the last decade, considerable genomic resources have been established for Ascaris, including complete germline and somatic genomes, comprehensive mRNA and small RNA transcriptomes, as well as genome-wide histone and chromatin data. These datasets provide a major resource for studies on the basic biology of these parasites and the host-parasite relationship. Ascaris and its relatives undergo programmed DNA elimination, a highly regulated process where chromosomes are fragmented and portions of the genome are lost in embryonic cells destined to adopt a somatic fate, whereas the genome remains intact in germ cells. Unlike many model organisms, Ascaris transcription drives early development beginning prior to pronuclear fusion. Studies on Ascaris demonstrated a complex small RNA network even in the absence of a piRNA pathway. Comparative genomics of these ascarids has provided perspectives on nematode sex chromosome evolution, programmed DNA elimination, and host-parasite coevolution. The genomic resources enable comparison of proteins across diverse species, revealing many new potential drug targets that could be used to control these parasitic nematodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianbin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA;
- UT-Oak Ridge National Laboratory Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
The Incidence, Intensity, and Risk Factors for Soil Transmissible Helminthes Infections among Waste Handlers in a Large Coastal Periurban Settlement in Southern Ghana. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 2021:5205793. [PMID: 33777151 PMCID: PMC7949191 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5205793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Soil-transmissible helminthes (STH) infections are among the most common sanitation-related public health problems in poor periurban settlements of tropical regions of low- and middle-income countries. In Ghana, research studies documenting the incidence rate, intensity, and occupational risk factors of STH infections among adults are scanty. A prospective cohort study of 261 waste handlers was conducted to investigate this. Stool samples were collected after 90 and 180 days of treatment with albendazole (400 mg per dose). The geometric mean intensity of STH among waste handlers after 180 days of treatment was 2.8 eggs/gram (light intensity), with an incidence rate of 1.5%. The proportion of waste handlers with light intensity STH infections was 4.8%. The odds of STH infection among female waste handlers were 80% lower when compared with male waste handlers (aOR = 0.2; 95% CI: 0.0–0.8). Waste handlers who used rubber gloves when working were 80% (aOR = 0.2: 95% CI: 0.2–1.9) protected from STH infections compared with those who did not use gloves. Infections with STH among the 261 waste handlers significantly correlated with the type of waste handling activities (LR χ2 = 15.3; p=0.033) with the highest proportion of infection found among transporters, 2 (40%). Waste handlers should receive periodic antihelminthic treatment, at least once every six months, practice adequate hand hygiene, and use suitable personal protective equipment during work.
Collapse
|
23
|
Hoffmann T, Hahn A, Verweij JJ, Leboulle G, Landt O, Strube C, Kann S, Dekker D, May J, Frickmann H, Loderstädt U. Differing Effects of Standard and Harsh Nucleic Acid Extraction Procedures on Diagnostic Helminth Real-Time PCRs Applied to Human Stool Samples. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10020188. [PMID: 33572338 PMCID: PMC7916106 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess standard and harsher nucleic acid extraction schemes for diagnostic helminth real-time PCR approaches from stool samples. A standard procedure for nucleic acid extraction from stool and a procedure including bead-beating as well as proteinase K digestion were compared with group-, genus-, and species-specific real-time PCR assays targeting helminths and nonhelminth pathogens in human stool samples. From 25 different in-house and commercial helminth real-time PCR assays applied to 77 stool samples comprising 67 historic samples and 10 external quality assessment scheme samples positively tested for helminths, higher numbers of positive test results were observed after bead-beating-based nucleic acid extraction for 5/25 (20%) real-time PCR assays irrespective of specificity issues. Lower cycle threshold values were observed for one real-time PCR assay after the standard extraction scheme, and for four assays after the bead-beating-based scheme. Agreement between real-time PCR results after both nucleic acid extraction strategies according to Cohen’s kappa ranged from poor to almost perfect for the different assays. Varying agreement was observed in eight nonhelminth real-time PCR assays applied to 67 historic stool samples. The study indicates highly variable effects of harsh nucleic acid extraction approaches depending on the real-time PCR assay used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Hoffmann
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (T.H.); or (H.F.)
| | - Andreas Hahn
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Jaco J. Verweij
- Laboratory for Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Elisabeth Tweesteden Hospital, 5042 AD Tilburg, The Netherlands;
| | | | - Olfert Landt
- TIB MOLBIOL, 12103 Berlin, Germany; (G.L.); (O.L.)
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Simone Kann
- Medical Mission Institute, 97074 Würzburg, Germany;
| | - Denise Dekker
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Department, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine Hamburg, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (D.D.); (J.M.)
| | - Jürgen May
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Department, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine Hamburg, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (D.D.); (J.M.)
| | - Hagen Frickmann
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg, 20359 Hamburg, Germany; (T.H.); or (H.F.)
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, 18057 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Ulrike Loderstädt
- Department of Hospital Hygiene & Infectious Diseases, University Medicine Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pineda CO, Leal DAG, de Lima R, Ribeiro PP, Rodrigues A, Martini MH, Stancari RCA, Matosinhos FCL, Miné JC, Greinert-Goulart JA, Grott SC, Diefenbach LMG, Araújo B, Franco RMB. Parasites in Fresh Produce: a Brazilian Inter-laboratory Evaluation of a Standardized Methodology for the Detection of Ascaris sp. in Leafy Vegetables. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-020-01925-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
25
|
Sartorius B, Cano J, Simpson H, Tusting LS, Marczak LB, Miller-Petrie MK, Kinvi B, Zoure H, Mwinzi P, Hay SI, Rebollo M, Pullan RL. Prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminth infections of children in sub-Saharan Africa, 2000-18: a geospatial analysis. LANCET GLOBAL HEALTH 2020; 9:e52-e60. [PMID: 33338459 PMCID: PMC7786448 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(20)30398-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Driven by global targets to eliminate soil-transmitted helminths as a public health problem, governments have rapidly rolled out control programmes using school and community-based platforms. To justify and target ongoing investment, quantification of impact and identification of remaining high-risk areas are needed. We aimed to assess regional progress towards these targets. Methods We did a continental-scale ecological analysis using a Bayesian space–time hierarchical model to estimate the effects of known environmental, socioeconomic, and control-related factors on the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths, and we mapped the probability that implementation units had achieved moderate-to-heavy intensity infection prevalence of less than 2% among children aged 5–14 years between Jan 1, 2000, and Dec 31, 2018. Findings We incorporated data from 26 304 georeferenced surveys, spanning 3096 (60%) of the 5183 programmatic implementation units. Our findings suggest a reduction in the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths in children aged 5–14 years in sub-Saharan Africa, from 44% in 2000 to 13% in 2018, driven by sustained delivery of preventive chemotherapy, improved sanitation, and economic development. Nevertheless, 1301 (25%) of 5183 implementation units still had an estimated prevalence of moderate-to-heavy intensity infection exceeding the 2% target threshold in 2018, largely concentrated in nine countries (in 1026 [79%] of 1301 implementation units): Nigeria, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Angola, Mozambique, Madagascar, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. Interpretation Our estimates highlight the areas to target and strengthen interventions, and the areas where data gaps remain. If elimination of soil-transmitted helminths as a public health problem is to be achieved in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, continued investment in treatment and prevention activities are essential to ensure that no areas are left behind. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benn Sartorius
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Public Health Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Jorge Cano
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Hope Simpson
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lucy S Tusting
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Laurie B Marczak
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Molly K Miller-Petrie
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Boniface Kinvi
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Honorat Zoure
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Pauline Mwinzi
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Simon I Hay
- Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria Rebollo
- Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases, WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Rachel L Pullan
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Soil-transmitted helminth infections among pre-school aged children in Gamo Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia: Prevalence, intensity and intervention status. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243946. [PMID: 33320918 PMCID: PMC7737900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminths (STH), i.e., Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworms are among the most prevalent Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) in Ethiopia. Although pre-school aged children pay a high morbidity toll associated with STH infections, evidence on prevalence, intensity and intervention status is lacking in Ethiopia. This study, therefore, aimed to address these gaps to inform decision made on STH. METHODS We did a community-based cross-sectional study in five districts of Gamo Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia; in January 2019. Data were collected using pre-tested questionnaire, and the Kato-Katz technique was used to diagnose parasites eggs in stool. Then, collected data were edited and entered into EpiData 4.4.2, and exported to SPSS software (IBM, version 25) for analysis. RESULTS A total of 2462 PSAC participated in this study. Overall, the prevalence of STH was 23.5% (578/2462) (95% confidence interval (CI) = 21.8%-25.2%). As caris lumbricoides was the most prevalent (18.6%), followed by Trichuris trichiura (9.2%), and hookworms (3.1%). Of the total, 7.4% PSAC were infected with two STH species. Most of the positive cases with STH showed low infection intensities, while 15.1% ascariasis cases showed moderate infection intensities. The study found that 68.7% of PSAC were treated with albendazole. Also, household's level data showed that 39.4% used water from hand-dug well; 52.5% need to travel ≥30 minutes to collect water; 77.5% did not treat water, and 48.9% had no hand washing facility. In addition, almost 93% care givers achieved less than the mean knowledge and practice score (≤5) on STH prevention. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that significant proportions of pre-school aged children are suffering from STH infections despite preventive chemotherapy exist at the study area. Also, gaps in the interventions against STH were highlighted. Thus, a call for action is demanding to eliminate STH among PSAC in Ethiopia by 2030.
Collapse
|
27
|
Asfaw MA, Wegayehu T, Gezmu T, Bekele A, Hailemariam Z, Gebre T. Determinants of soil-transmitted helminth infections among pre-school-aged children in Gamo Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia: A case-control study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243836. [PMID: 33306738 PMCID: PMC7732061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-school aged children (PSAC) are highly affected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH), particularly in areas where water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are inadequate. Context-specific evidence on determinants of STH infections in PSAC has not been well established in the study area. This study, therefore, aimed to fill these gaps in Gamo Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia. METHODS A community-based unmatched case-control study, nested in a cross-sectional survey, was conducted in January 2019. Cases and controls were identified based on any STH infection status using the Kato-Katz technique in stool sample examination. Data on social, demographic, economic, behavioral, and WASH related variables were collected from primary caregivers of children using pre-tested questionnaire. Determinants of STH infections were identified using multivariable logistic regression model using SPSS version 25. RESULTS A total of 1206 PSAC (402 cases and 804 controls) participated in this study. Our study showed that the odds of STH infection were lowest among PSAC living in urban areas (AOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.39-0.79), among those from households with safe water source (AOR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.47-0.0.93), and in those PSAC from households with shorter distance from water source (<30 minutes) (AOR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.39-0.67). On the other hand, the odds of STH infection were highest among PSAC from households that had no functional hand washing facility (AOR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.04-1.77), in those PSAC from households that had unclean latrine (AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.19-2.78), and among those PSAC under caregivers who had lower score (≤5) on knowledge related to STH transmission (AOR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.13-3.01). CONCLUSIONS Given efforts required eliminating STH by 2030; the existing preventive chemotherapy intervention should be substantially strengthened with WASH and behavioral interventions. Thus, an urgent call for action is required to integrate context-specific interventions, particularly in rural areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mekuria Asnakew Asfaw
- Collaborative Research and Training Centre for NTDs, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Teklu Wegayehu
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Tigist Gezmu
- Collaborative Research and Training Centre for NTDs, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Bekele
- Collaborative Research and Training Centre for NTDs, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Zeleke Hailemariam
- School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Teshome Gebre
- The Task Force for Global Health, International Trachoma Initiative, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Easton A, Gao S, Lawton SP, Bennuru S, Khan A, Dahlstrom E, Oliveira RG, Kepha S, Porcella SF, Webster J, Anderson R, Grigg ME, Davis RE, Wang J, Nutman TB. Molecular evidence of hybridization between pig and human Ascaris indicates an interbred species complex infecting humans. eLife 2020; 9:e61562. [PMID: 33155980 PMCID: PMC7647404 DOI: 10.7554/elife.61562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human ascariasis is a major neglected tropical disease caused by the nematode Ascaris lumbricoides. We report a 296 megabase (Mb) reference-quality genome comprised of 17,902 protein-coding genes derived from a single, representative Ascaris worm. An additional 68 worms were collected from 60 human hosts in Kenyan villages where pig husbandry is rare. Notably, the majority of these worms (63/68) possessed mitochondrial genomes that clustered closer to the pig parasite Ascaris suum than to A. lumbricoides. Comparative phylogenomic analyses identified over 11 million nuclear-encoded SNPs but just two distinct genetic types that had recombined across the genomes analyzed. The nuclear genomes had extensive heterozygosity, and all samples existed as genetic mosaics with either A. suum-like or A. lumbricoides-like inheritance patterns supporting a highly interbred Ascaris species genetic complex. As no barriers appear to exist for anthroponotic transmission of these 'hybrid' worms, a one-health approach to control the spread of human ascariasis will be necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Easton
- Helminth Immunology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaUnited States
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Shenghan Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, RNA Bioscience Initiative, University of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraUnited States
- Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Scott P Lawton
- Epidemiology Research Unit (ERU) Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Northern Faculty, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)InvernessUnited Kingdom
| | - Sasisekhar Bennuru
- Helminth Immunology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaUnited States
| | - Asis Khan
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaUnited States
| | - Eric Dahlstrom
- Genomics Unit, Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of HealthHamiltonUnited States
| | - Rita G Oliveira
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Stella Kepha
- London School of Tropical Medicine and HygieneLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Stephen F Porcella
- Genomics Unit, Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of HealthHamiltonUnited States
| | - Joanne Webster
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesHertfordshireUnited Kingdom
| | - Roy Anderson
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Michael E Grigg
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaUnited States
| | - Richard E Davis
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, RNA Bioscience Initiative, University of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraUnited States
| | - Jianbin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, RNA Bioscience Initiative, University of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of TennesseeKnoxvilleUnited States
| | - Thomas B Nutman
- Helminth Immunology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Webb J. Historical epidemiology and global health history. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 27:13-28. [PMID: 32997055 DOI: 10.1590/s0104-59702020000300002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The subdiscipline of historical epidemiology holds the promise of creating a more robust and more nuanced foundation for global public health decision-making by deepening the empirical record from which we draw lessons about past interventions. This essay draws upon historical epidemiological research on three global public health campaigns to illustrate this promise: the Rockefeller Foundation's efforts to control hookworm disease (1909-c.1930), the World Health Organization's pilot projects for malaria eradication in tropical Africa (1950s-1960s), and the international efforts to shut down the transmission of Ebola virus disease during outbreaks in tropical Africa (1974-2019).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Webb
- Professor emeritus, History Department/Colby College. Waterville - Maine - USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
Bibliometric methods were used to analyse the major research trends, themes and topics over the last 30 years in the parasitology discipline. The tools used were SciMAT, VOSviewer and SWIFT-Review in conjunction with the parasitology literature contained in the MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus and Dimensions databases. The analyses show that the major research themes are dynamic and continually changing with time, although some themes identified based on keywords such as malaria, nematode, epidemiology and phylogeny are consistently referenced over time. We note the major impact of countries like Brazil has had on the literature of parasitology research. The increase in recent times of research productivity on 'antiparasitics' is discussed, as well as the change in emphasis on different antiparasitic drugs and insecticides over time. In summary, innovation in parasitology is global, extensive, multidisciplinary, constantly evolving and closely aligned with the availability of technology.
Collapse
|
31
|
Koontz Scaffidi B. Spatial paleopathology: A geographic approach to the etiology of cribrotic lesions in the prehistoric Andes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2020; 29:102-116. [PMID: 31378563 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The ubiquity of cribra orbitalia in skeletal samples has led to rigorous debate over their etiology, with most concluding that nutrition, physiological stressors, and environmental disease vectors synergistically contribute to lesion development. To parse the relative contributions of these etiological factors in the prehistoric Andes, this spatial paleopathological meta-analysis investigates the relationship between population-wide prehistoric Andean cribra orbitalia rates and geographic, climatic, and hydrological variables. METHODS Crude prevalence patterns of cribra orbitalia from 61 archaeological sites were plotted and analyzed with geostatistical methods to explore spatial patterns in the distribution of anemia-associated lesions. Multiple linear regression modeling was performed on 19 spatial variables suspected to contribute to various forms of anemia that result in cribrotic lesions. RESULTS Spatially-clustered high cribra orbitalia rates exist around the Central Peruvian coast, but are paradoxically low on the Ecuadorian coast. Multiple regression shows that elevation, temperature, and precipitation were not predictive of lesion rates. Multiple regression models show that aridity and seasonal variability in freshwater supply, together, explained a third of the variation in lesion rates. CONCLUSION While cribra orbitalia has long been tied to coastal proximity, these results suggest environmental constraints such as the need for water storage could have promoted malnutrition and pathogenic infection more than mere coastal proximity. LIMITATIONS OF THIS STUDY This analysis is limited by the paucity of data from highland sites and by the assumption that burials are local to the excavation site. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH Future studies will integrate isotopic and remotely-sensed data into models to explore links between water security, nutrition, and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beth Koontz Scaffidi
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University, 900 Cady Mall, Tempe, AZ 85287-2402, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Else KJ, Keiser J, Holland CV, Grencis RK, Sattelle DB, Fujiwara RT, Bueno LL, Asaolu SO, Sowemimo OA, Cooper PJ. Whipworm and roundworm infections. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2020; 6:44. [PMID: 32467581 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-020-0171-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Trichuriasis and ascariasis are neglected tropical diseases caused by the gastrointestinal dwelling nematodes Trichuris trichiura (a whipworm) and Ascaris lumbricoides (a roundworm), respectively. Both parasites are staggeringly prevalent, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas, and are associated with substantial morbidity. Infection is initiated by ingestion of infective eggs, which hatch in the intestine. Thereafter, T. trichiura larvae moult within intestinal epithelial cells, with adult worms embedded in a partially intracellular niche in the large intestine, whereas A. lumbricoides larvae penetrate the gut mucosa and migrate through the liver and lungs before returning to the lumen of the small intestine, where adult worms dwell. Both species elicit type 2 anti-parasite immunity. Diagnosis is typically based on clinical presentation (gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammation) and the detection of eggs or parasite DNA in the faeces. Prevention and treatment strategies rely on periodic mass drug administration (generally with albendazole or mebendazole) to at-risk populations and improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene. The effectiveness of drug treatment is very high for A. lumbricoides infections, whereas cure rates for T. trichiura infections are low. Novel anthelminthic drugs are needed, together with vaccine development and tools for diagnosis and assessment of parasite control in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Else
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Celia V Holland
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Richard K Grencis
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - David B Sattelle
- Centre for Respiratory Biology, UCL Respiratory, Rayne Building, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences (ICB), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lilian L Bueno
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences (ICB), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Samuel O Asaolu
- Department of Zoology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Oluyomi A Sowemimo
- Department of Zoology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Philip J Cooper
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK.,Facultad de Ciencias Medicas, de la Salud y la Vida, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
van Leeuwen A, Budischak SA, Graham AL, Cressler CE. Parasite resource manipulation drives bimodal variation in infection duration. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 286:20190456. [PMID: 31064304 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.0456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Over a billion people on earth are infected with helminth parasites and show remarkable variation in parasite burden and chronicity. These parasite distributions are captured well by classic statistics, such as the negative binomial distribution. But the within-host processes underlying this variation are not well understood. In this study, we explain variation in macroparasite infection outcomes on the basis of resource flows within hosts. Resource flows realize the interactions between parasites and host immunity and metabolism. When host metabolism is modulated by parasites, we find a positive feedback of parasites on their own resources. While this positive feedback results in parasites improving their resource availability at high burdens, giving rise to chronic infections, it also results in a threshold biomass required for parasites to establish in the host, giving rise to acute infections when biomass fails to clear the threshold. Our finding of chronic and acute outcomes in bistability contrasts with classic theory, yet is congruent with the variation in helminth burdens observed in human and wildlife populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anieke van Leeuwen
- 1 Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, Department of Coastal Systems, and Utrecht University , PO Box 59, 1790 AB Den Burg, Texel , The Netherlands.,2 Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University , Princeton, NJ , USA
| | - Sarah A Budischak
- 2 Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University , Princeton, NJ , USA.,3 W.M. Keck Science Department, Claremont McKenna, Pitzer and Scripps Colleges , Claremont, CA , USA
| | - Andrea L Graham
- 2 Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University , Princeton, NJ , USA
| | - Clayton E Cressler
- 4 Department of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska , Lincoln, NE , USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors among the First-Cycle Primary Schoolchildren in Sasiga District, Southwest Ethiopia. J Parasitol Res 2020; 2020:8681247. [PMID: 32231795 PMCID: PMC7093910 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8681247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) have been major public health burdens in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Studies in different areas of Ethiopia have shown a high prevalence of IPIs in poor families. A similar study has not been conducted in Sasiga District given that the area is possibly at high-risk of IPIs due to the prevailing risk factors. This study is aimed at assessing the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among schoolchildren in Sasiga District, southwest Ethiopia. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2018 to March 2019 to estimate the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among the study participants. A total of 383 children were selected using resident-type and grade-level stratified systematic random sampling technique. Stool samples were examined microscopically using direct wet mount and formal-ether concentration techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to get information on the associated risk factors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and p value of ≤0.05 was taken as statistically significant. The overall prevalence of IPIs among the children was 62.4% (239/383). Single, double, and triple infections were 49.9%, 10.7%, and 1.83%, respectively. Residence, family income, place of defecation, source of drinking water, shoe-wearing habit, handwashing habit after toilet use, ways of waste disposal, and cleanliness of fingernail were the most important predictors of IPIs (p < 0.05). Ascaris lumbricoides (22.7% (87/383)) and hookworms (20.6% (79/383)) were the most prevalent parasites, followed by Entamoeba histolytica (8.1%), Trichuris trichiura (7.6%), Giardia intestinalis (6.5%), Hymenolepis nana (5.7%), and Schistosoma mansoni (4.4%), in that order. Sasiga District primary schoolchildren are likely at a high burden of IPIs. Intensive health education on personal hygiene and environmental sanitation is needed.
Collapse
|
35
|
Hussaini A, Isaac C, Rahimat H, Inegbenosun C, Obasuyi C, Solomon E. The Burden of Bancroftian Filariasis in Nigeria: A Review. Ethiop J Health Sci 2020; 30:301-310. [PMID: 32165820 PMCID: PMC7060382 DOI: 10.4314/ejhs.v30i2.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) vectored by mosquito; and people in rural areas are mostly at risk of infection. Pooling prevalence data across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria is expected to provide a clearer insight into the burden of the disease as this information could guide towards planning eradication programmes. METHODS Search for pertinent literature was done on Google Scholar, African Journal Online (AJOL) and PubMed databases using relevant keywords. Studies on the prevalence of LF due to Wuchereria bancrofti in Nigeria were selected and reviewed. Prevalence data from the different states were further organized into the six geopolitical zones and analyzed. RESULTS Of the 36 states in Nigeria, prevalence data were available only for 19 states. Furthermore, in the six geopolitical zones, North-West had the highest disease burden (44 per 10 000) of Years Lived with Disability (YLD), while North-Central (4 per 10 000) had the lowest disease burden. CONCLUSION Result are largely attributed to the prevailing conditions in the different zones. In view of ensuring a successful control plan and eventual eradication of the disease, a comprehensive national survey in every state should be carried out using more sensitive tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adamu Hussaini
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria
| | - Clement Isaac
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria
| | - Hussaini Rahimat
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria
| | - Collins Inegbenosun
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria
| | - Cedric Obasuyi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria
| | - Ezekiel Solomon
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Oliveira YLDC, Oliveira LM, Oliveira YLM, Nascimento AMD, La Corte R, Geraldi RM, Barbosa L, Gazzinelli-Guimarães PH, Fujiwara RT, Bueno LL, Dolabella SS. Changes in the epidemiological profile of intestinal parasites after a school-based large-scale treatment for soil-transmitted helminths in a community in northeastern Brazil: Epidemiological profile after large-scale school-based treatment for STH. Acta Trop 2020; 202:105279. [PMID: 31758913 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Intestinal parasites cause a significant public health problem worldwide due to the associated morbidities, mainly in infected school-aged children (SAC). The strategy of large-scale deworming in SAC to control the transmission of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) has been advocated by the World Health Organization and was recently adopted in Brazil; however, the long-term effects of mass deworming on the larger parasitological profile have been less studied. After a five-year period of school-based large-scale treatment for STH using an annual single dose of albendazole in a community of Sergipe state, Brazil, a marked reduction in prevalence was observed (15.4%% vs.7.4% for Ascaris sp., 6.0%% vs. 0.4% for hookworm, and 12.8%% vs. 4.5%% for Trichuris trichiura), with the exception of Strongyloides stercoralis, which had no statistically significant change in prevalence. There was, however, an increase in the prevalence of intestinal protozoans, specifically Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar (0.0%% vs. 36.0%), Blastocystis hominis (0.0%% vs. 40.1%), and Giardia duodenalis (5.6%% vs. 14.5%). Although the findings showed a dramatic reduction in the prevalence of STH after four rounds of preventive chemotherapy, there was an increase in intestinal protozoan infections, indicating a change in the epidemiological profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yvanna L D C Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Luciana M Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Yrna L M Oliveira
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Ana M D Nascimento
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Roseli La Corte
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo M Geraldi
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Luciene Barbosa
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| | - Pedro H Gazzinelli-Guimarães
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Lilian L Bueno
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Silvio S Dolabella
- Department of Morphology, Center of Biology and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Sergipe, São Cristovão, Sergipe 49100-000, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
SHARIFDINI M, GHANBARZADEH L, BARIKANI A, SARAEI M. Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites among Rural Inhabitants of Fouman, Guilan Province, Northern Iran with Emphasis on Strongyloides stercoralis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 15:91-100. [PMID: 32489380 PMCID: PMC7244841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the most important etiologies of gastrointestinal disorders in developing countries. The present study was performed to determine the prevalence of IPIs in rural inhabitants of Fouman, northern Iran. METHODS Overall, 31 villages were randomly selected during 2015-2016. Stool samples were collected from 1500 inhabitants aged 2-87. The samples were examined by direct wet smear, formalin ethyl-acetate concentration and agar plate culture. Trichrome staining and modified acid-fast staining were used as confirmatory tests for intestinal amoeba and flagellates and cryptosporidium spp., respectively. Data were analyzed with Chi-Square and Fisher exact tests using SPSS. RESULTS 8.06% of participants were positive for at least one intestinal parasite. The prevalence of mixed parasitic infections was 0.87%. The most prevalent IPIs were caused by Trichostrongylus spp. (3.13%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (1.5%), Giardia lamblia (1.3%), and Entamoeba coli (1.0%), Blastocystis hominis (0.86%), E. histolytica/dispar (0.53%), Endolimax nana (0.26%), Iodamoeba butschlii (0.13%), Trichuris trichiura (0.07%), Enterobius vermicularis (0.07%), Hook worm (0.07%) and E. hartmani (0.07%). Statistically, the prevalence of IPIs showed significant differences regarding the age groups, education status, occupation (P<0.001), and the habit of eating raw vegetables (P<0.007), whereas, the differences were insignificant with regard to sex (P=0.924) and water supply (P=0.088). CONCLUSION The prevalence of IPIs, especially soil-transmitted helminthes (STHs) has sharply decreased in northern Iran. Excluding Trichostrongylus spp. and S. stercoralis, other intestinal parasites only produce a marginal and unnoticeable health problem in this area, today.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meysam SHARIFDINI
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Laleh GHANBARZADEH
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran, Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Ameneh BARIKANI
- Children Growth Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mehrzad SARAEI
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran, Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran,Correspondence
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Orr AR, Quagraine JE, Suwondo P, George S, Harrison LM, Dornas FP, Evans B, Caccone A, Humphries D, Wilson MD, Cappello M. Genetic Markers of Benzimidazole Resistance among Human Hookworms ( Necator americanus) in Kintampo North Municipality, Ghana. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2019; 100:351-356. [PMID: 30734697 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Hookworm infection causes anemia, malnutrition, and growth delay, especially in children living in sub-Saharan Africa. The World Health Organization recommends periodic mass drug administration (MDA) of anthelminthics to school-age children (SAC) as a means of reducing morbidity. Recently, questions have been raised about the effectiveness of MDA as a global control strategy for hookworms and other soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). Genomic DNA was extracted from Necator americanus hookworm eggs isolated from SAC enrolled in a cross-sectional study of STH epidemiology and deworming response in Kintampo North Municipality, Ghana. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was then used to identify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with benzimidazole resistance within the N. americanus β-tubulin gene. Both F167Y and F200Y resistance-associated SNPs were detected in hookworm samples from infected study subjects. Furthermore, the ratios of resistant to wild-type SNP at these two loci were increased in posttreatment samples from subjects who were not cured by albendazole, suggesting that deworming drug exposure may enrich resistance-associated mutations. A previously unreported association between F200Y and a third resistance-associated SNP, E198A, was identified by sequencing of F200Y amplicons. These data confirm that markers of benzimidazole resistance are circulating among hookworms in central Ghana, with unknown potential to impact the effectiveness and sustainability of chemotherapeutic approaches to disease transmission and control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ambrose R Orr
- Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Josephine E Quagraine
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Peter Suwondo
- Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Santosh George
- Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lisa M Harrison
- Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Fabio Pio Dornas
- Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Benjamin Evans
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Adalgisa Caccone
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Debbie Humphries
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Michael D Wilson
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Michael Cappello
- Yale Partnerships for Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Hernando G, Turani O, Bouzat C. Caenorhabditis elegans muscle Cys-loop receptors as novel targets of terpenoids with potential anthelmintic activity. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007895. [PMID: 31765374 PMCID: PMC6901230 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The anthelmintic treatment of nematode infections remains the pillar of worm control in both human and veterinary medicine. Since control is threatened by the appearance of drug resistant nematodes, there is a need to develop novel compounds, among which phytochemicals constitute potential anthelmintic agents. Caenorhabditis elegans has been pivotal in anthelmintic drug discovery and in revealing mechanisms of drug action and resistance. By using C. elegans, we here revealed the anthelmintic actions of three plant terpenoids -thymol, carvacrol and eugenol- at the behavioral level. Terpenoids produce a rapid paralysis of worms with a potency rank order carvacrol > thymol > eugenol. In addition to their paralyzing activity, they also inhibit egg hatching, which would, in turn, lead to a broader anthelmintic spectrum of activity. To identify drug targets, we performed an in vivo screening of selected strains carrying mutations in receptors involved in worm locomotion for determining resistance to the paralyzing effect of terpenoids. The assays revealed that two Cys-loop receptors with key roles in worm locomotion -Levamisole sensitive nicotinic receptor (L-AChR) and GABA(A) (UNC-49) receptor- are involved in the paralyzing effects of terpenoids. To decipher the mechanism by which terpenoids affect these receptors, we performed electrophysiological studies using a primary culture of C. elegans L1 muscle cells. Whole cell recordings from L1 cells demonstrated that terpenoids decrease macroscopic responses of L-AChR and UNC-49 receptor to their endogenous agonists, thus acting as inhibitors. Single-channel recordings from L-AChR revealed that terpenoids decrease the frequency of opening events, probably by acting as negative allosteric modulators. The fact that terpenoids act at different receptors may have important advantages regarding efficacy and development of resistance. Thus, our findings give support to the use of terpenoids as either an alternative or a complementary anthelmintic strategy to overcome the ever-increasing resistance of parasites to classical anthelmintic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillermina Hernando
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Ornella Turani
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Bouzat
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca, Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Safi N, Warusavithana S, Shah Alawi SA, Atta H, Montresor A, Gabrielli AF. Elimination of morbidity due to soil-transmitted helminthiases among Afghan schoolchildren. Acta Trop 2019; 197:105035. [PMID: 31128094 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Large sectors of the Afghan population have limited access to safe water and sanitation, which increases the risk of transmission of water- and food- borne diseases, including Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) infections. STHs interfere with the human host's health status, and their burden of disease is highest among children of school age. Based on the results of a nationwide survey conducted in 2003, which showed an STH prevalence of 47.2%, and with the aim of reducing morbidity among school children, Afghanistan has been conducting nationwide deworming for preschool-age and school-age children since 2004. In 2017, 14 years after the first baseline assessment, a follow-up survey was carried out among schoolchildren aged 8-10 years to provide an update on STH epidemiology and facilitate evidence-informed planning of future deworming campaigns. Stool samples were collected from 2263 pupils aged 8-10 years in five provinces representing the different ecological zones of the country - Kabul, Balkh, Herat, Nangarhar and Kandahar. Microscopic examination was carried out by the Kato-Katz thick smear technique, to assess the presence and the number of parasites and/or their eggs. The survey revealed that 26.6% of the sample was infected with at least one of the STH, a marked decrease from the level registered in 2003. The most prevalent infection was the one with A. lumbricoides (25.7%), followed by T. trichiura (1.0%) and hookworms (0.1%). All positive children were noted to have light-intensity infections, compared to the previous survey where 9.7% of the sample had moderate-to-heavy intensity infections. Only 0.2% of the children had co-infection with two or more parasites. Meanwhile, 6.8% of the students were found infected with the dwarf tapeworm, Hymenolepis nana. The absence of infections of moderate-to-heavy intensity after several yearly rounds of deworming and overall improvements in provision of safe water and sanitation, indicates successful control of morbidity due to STH and, overall, their elimination as a public-health problem from Afghanistan. Nevertheless, current levels of prevalence of infection still show persistence of active transmission of STHs, thus justifying the continued implementation of mass deworming interventions among children. The permanent elimination of STH transmission, however, will be possible only when the country reaches a sanitation level sufficient to impede fecal contamination of the environment with human excreta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naimullah Safi
- World Health Organization Country Office, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | | | - Sayed Ali Shah Alawi
- Child and Adolescent Health Department, General Directorate of Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Hoda Atta
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Antonio Montresor
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Albis Francesco Gabrielli
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt; Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Pasaribu AP, Alam A, Sembiring K, Pasaribu S, Setiabudi D. Prevalence and risk factors of soil-transmitted helminthiasis among school children living in an agricultural area of North Sumatera, Indonesia. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1066. [PMID: 31391023 PMCID: PMC6686497 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7397-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth infection (STH) is one of the neglected tropical disease that affects approximately 2 billion people globally. School children represent the age group that is most commonly infected with STHs, resulting in poor school performance, impaired cognitive function, and many other detrimental effects. The transmission of STH is determined by many factors, such as hygiene and sanitation. Understanding the factors that influence disease transmission in a particular area is key to effective STH control. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of STH in North Sumatera and to identify the associated risk factors among school children. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out among primary school children in Suka village, Tigapanah subdistrict. Stool samples were processed using a single Kato-Katz method. The potential risk factors analyzed were parent education and occupation, hand washing habits, latrine usage, footwear usage and contact with soil. The Chi-square test was performed to identify an association between risk factors and parasitological results. Logistic regression analysis was used to measure the strength of association. RESULTS We enrolled 468 school children between 6 and 12 years of age. Among those children, 268 children (57.24%) were positive for one or more STH infections. Approximately 62.39% of children played with soil/dirt every day, and only 50% regularly washed their hands after activities. Most of the children wore shoes/slippers when going outside (87.82%) and used a latrine for defecation (85.04%). Playing with soil/dirt have been shown to increase the risk of STH infections 7.53 times, while hand washing habits and latrine usage decreased the risk of STH infections 0.16 times each. CONCLUSION The prevalence of STH infection in school children in Suka village, Tigapanah subdistrict is still high. Playing with soil/dirt increased the risk of infection, while hand washing habits and latrine usage decreased the risk of infection. The combined strategies of improving the personal hygiene of children and biannual deworming can reduce the risk of STH infection in school children in Suka village, Tigapanah subdistrict.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayodhia Pitaloka Pasaribu
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Sumatera Utara, North Sumatera, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Anggraini Alam
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, West Java Indonesia
| | - Krisnarta Sembiring
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Sumatera Utara, North Sumatera, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Syahril Pasaribu
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Sumatera Utara, North Sumatera, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Djatnika Setiabudi
- Department of Child Health, Medical Faculty, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, West Java Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Stracke K, Clarke N, Awburn CV, Vaz Nery S, Khieu V, Traub RJ, Jex AR. Development and validation of a multiplexed-tandem qPCR tool for diagnostics of human soil-transmitted helminth infections. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007363. [PMID: 31206520 PMCID: PMC6597125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are a major cause of morbidity in tropical developing countries with a global infection prevalence of more than one billion people and disease burden of around 3.4 million disability adjusted life years. Infection prevalence directly correlates to inadequate sanitation, impoverished conditions and limited access to public health systems. Underestimation of infection prevalence using traditional microscopy-based diagnostic techniques is common, specifically in populations with access to benzimidazole mass treatment programs and a predominance of low intensity infections. In this study, we developed a multiplexed-tandem qPCR (MT-PCR) tool to identify and quantify STH eggs in stool samples. We have assessed this assay by measuring infection prevalence and intensity in field samples of two cohorts of participants from Timor-Leste and Cambodia, which were collected as part of earlier epidemiological studies. MT-PCR diagnostic parameters were compared to a previously published multiplexed qPCR for STH detection. The MT-PCR assay agreed strongly with qPCR data and showed a diagnostic specificity of 99.60-100.00% (sensitivity of 83.33-100.00%) compared to qPCR and kappa agreement exceeding 0.85 in all tests. In addition, the MT-PCR has the added advantage of distinguishing Ancylostoma spp. species, namely Ancylostoma duodenale and Ancylostoma ceylanicum. This semi-automated platform uses a standardized, manufactured reagent kit, shows excellent run-to-run consistency/repeatability and supports high-throughput detection and quantitation at a moderate cost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Stracke
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Naomi Clarke
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Camille V. Awburn
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susana Vaz Nery
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Virak Khieu
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Ministry of Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Rebecca J. Traub
- Faculty for Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aaron R. Jex
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Faculty for Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Alemu G, Abossie A, Yohannes Z. Current status of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among primary school children in Birbir town, Southern Ethiopia. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:270. [PMID: 30890146 PMCID: PMC6425597 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-3879-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intestinal parasites still pose major public health problems in developing countries like Ethiopia. Local epidemiological data is indispensable in order to design and monitor prevention and control strategies. Therefore the present study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among students at Birbir town, Southern Ethiopia. Methods A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2018. Three hundred fifty-one students, who were selected by stratified followed by systematic random sampling, participated in the study. Socio-demographic information was collected using a structured questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements of height and weight were taken at the time of interview. Stool samples were collected and processed by direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques for microscopic detection of intestinal parasites. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results Among 351 (180 male and 171 female) children participated, 135 (38.5%) and 216 (61.5%) were within the age groups of 5–9 and 10–14 respectively. Ninety five (27.1%; 95%CI: 22.2–31.9) of them were tested positive for intestinal parasites. Helminths and protozoa account 21.1 and 7.1% prevalences respectively. Seventy eight children were infected with a single parasite species while 17 were positive for double or triple infections. A. lumbricoides (31, 8.8%) was the most frequently detected parasite followed by T. trichiura (20, 5.7%) and hookworms (19, 5.4%). Age group of 10–14 years (AOR = 2.51; 95%CI: 1.41–4.45, p = 0.002) and absence of hand washing habit after toilet (AOR = 4.49; 95%CI: 2.00–10.1, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infection. Conclusions The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among school age children is still unacceptably high. Age group of 10–14 year old and not having habit of hand washing after toilet were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infection. The ongoing school based deworming should be strengthened and be integrated with school health programs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-019-3879-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Getaneh Alemu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
| | - Ashenafi Abossie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Zerihun Yohannes
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Gizaw Z, Addisu A, Dagne H. Effects of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) education on childhood intestinal parasitic infections in rural Dembiya, northwest Ethiopia: an uncontrolled before-and-after intervention study. Environ Health Prev Med 2019; 24:16. [PMID: 30851729 PMCID: PMC6408793 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-019-0774-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminthes (STH) infections are among the most common infections worldwide and affect the most deprived communities. Adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) prevents environmental contamination, thereby preventing transmission of STH. Cognizant of this, WASH education was implemented in rural Dembiya to reduce intestinal parasitic infections. This study was, therefore, conducted to assess the impacts of the intervention on households' WASH conditions and prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections. METHOD An uncontrolled before-and-after intervention study was used. Cross-sectional studies were done before and after the intervention. Two hundred twenty-five and 302 under five children were recruited randomly at the baseline and endline, respectively. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and observational checklists. Direct stool examination and Kato-Katz methods were used to identify parasites in the stool. We used percent point change and prevalence ratio (PR) to see the effects of the intervention on WASH conditions and prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections respectively. Pearson chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were used to test for statistically significant percentage point changes of WASH conditions. The effect of the intervention on intestinal parasitic infections was statistically tested on the basis of PR with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The baseline prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 25.8%, and the endline prevalence was 23.8%. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was not significantly decreased at the endline compared with the baseline [PR = 0.92, 95% CI = (0.62, 1.38)]. Ascaris Lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasitic infection both at the baseline and endline. The proportion of children who had good hygienic condition increased from 1.3% at the baseline to 34.4% at the end line (p < 0.05). The percentage of mothers/care givers who washed hands at different pick times was significantly increased from 24.4% at the baseline to 68.2% at the endline (p < 0.001). The proportion of households who practiced home-based water treatment was significantly increased from 7.6% at the baseline to 47% at the endline (p < 0.001). The proportion of households who used sanitary latrine was increased from 32% at the baseline to 49% at the endline (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION This before-and-after intervention study found that households' WASH performance was significantly improved at the endline compared with the baseline. The endline prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was slightly lower than the baseline prevalence; however, the reduction was not statistically significant. The local health office needs to strengthen the WASH education program, mobilize the community to construct WASH facilities, and support the community to sustain households' WASH performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zemichael Gizaw
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayenew Addisu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Dagne
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Yudanin NA, Schmitz F, Flamar AL, Thome JJC, Tait Wojno E, Moeller JB, Schirmer M, Latorre IJ, Xavier RJ, Farber DL, Monticelli LA, Artis D. Spatial and Temporal Mapping of Human Innate Lymphoid Cells Reveals Elements of Tissue Specificity. Immunity 2019; 50:505-519.e4. [PMID: 30770247 PMCID: PMC6594374 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILC) play critical roles in regulating immunity, inflammation, and tissue homeostasis in mice. However, limited access to non-diseased human tissues has hindered efforts to profile anatomically-distinct ILCs in humans. Through flow cytometric and transcriptional analyses of lymphoid, mucosal, and metabolic tissues from previously healthy human organ donors, here we have provided a map of human ILC heterogeneity across multiple anatomical sites. In contrast to mice, human ILCs are less strictly compartmentalized and tissue localization selectively impacts ILC distribution in a subset-dependent manner. Tissue-specific distinctions are particularly apparent for ILC1 populations, whose distribution was markedly altered in obesity or aging. Furthermore, the degree of ILC1 population heterogeneity differed substantially in lymphoid versus mucosal sites. Together, these analyses comprise a comprehensive characterization of the spatial and temporal dynamics regulating the anatomical distribution, subset heterogeneity, and functional potential of ILCs in non-diseased human tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi A Yudanin
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Frederike Schmitz
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Anne-Laure Flamar
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Joseph J C Thome
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Surgery and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, NY, New York, 10032, USA
| | - Elia Tait Wojno
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA; Baker Institute for Animal Health, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14850 USA
| | - Jesper B Moeller
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Melanie Schirmer
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Isabel J Latorre
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Ramnik J Xavier
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Center for Computational and Integrative Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Donna L Farber
- Columbia Center for Translational Immunology, Department of Surgery and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, NY, New York, 10032, USA
| | - Laurel A Monticelli
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| | - David Artis
- Jill Roberts Institute for Research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Joan and Stanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Menthol acts as a positive allosteric modulator on nematode levamisole sensitive nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2018; 9:44-53. [PMID: 30682641 PMCID: PMC6352305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing and widespread emergence of resistance to the existing anti-nematodal pharmacopeia has made it imperative to develop new anthelminthic agents. Historically, plants have been important sources of therapeutic compounds and offer an alternative to synthetic drugs. Monoterpenoids are phytochemicals that have been shown to produce acute toxic effects in insects and nematodes. Previous studies have shown nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) to be possible targets for naturally occurring plant metabolites such as carvacrol and carveol. In this study we examined the effects of monoterpenoid compounds on a levamisole sensitive nAChR from Oesophagostomum dentatum and a nicotine sensitive nAChR from Ascaris suum. We expressed the receptors in Xenopus laevis oocytes and used two-electrode voltage-clamp to characterize the effect of various compounds on these cys-loop receptors. At 100 μM the majority of these compounds acted as antagonists. Interestingly, further experiments revealed that both 0.1 μM and 10 μM menthol potentiated acetylcholine and levamisole responses in the levamisole sensitive receptor but not the nicotine sensitive receptor. We also investigated the effects of 0.1 μM menthol on the contractility of A. suum somatic muscle strips. Menthol produced significant potentiation of peak contractions at each concentration of acetylcholine. The positive allosteric modulatory effects of menthol in both in vivo and in vitro experiments suggests menthol as a promising candidate for combination therapy with cholinergic anthelmintics. We screened 12 monoterpenoid compounds to search for a potential anthelmintic. Menthol acted as a PAM on levamisole sensitive nematode nAChRs in vitro & in vivo. Carvacrol produced antagonism on both levamisole and nicotine sensitive nAChRs. Monoterpenoid compounds can be used as an adjunct with cholinergic anthelmintics.
Collapse
|
47
|
Akawu Denue B. Ascaris lumbricoides in hepatic vein; a case of a common parasite in an ectopic site. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEPATOBILIARY AND PANCREATIC DISEASES 2018. [DOI: 10.5348/100081z04bd2018cr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Ascaris lumbricoides is amongst the common helminthic disease worldwide. It is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in communities with dearth of basic amenities and poor socioeconomic conditions. Despite high incidence of intestinal ascariasis, and rare involvement of biliary and pancreatic tree, ectopic involvement of hepatic vein with adult worm is extremely rare.
Case Report: We report a case of 53-year-old male senior civil servant that presented with two months history of vague abdominal pain and nausea. Abdominal ultrasound scan revealed adult worm within the main trunk of the intrahepatic portal vein. Sonography was repeated on the 14th day after seven days of oral albendazole 400 mg daily. It showed complete disappearance of the adult worm devoid of residual focal lesion.
Conclusion: We report a rare case of intrahepatic adult worm in-situ portal vein that responded to oral antihelminthes. Sonography is an inexpensive, safe, non-invasive and valuable investigative tool that allows the observation of ascaris lumbroicoides in the liver.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ballah Akawu Denue
- Department of Medicine, College of Medical Sciences, PMB 1069, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Ojja S, Kisaka S, Ediau M, Tuhebwe D, Kisakye AN, Halage AA, Mugambe RK, Mutyoba JN. Prevalence, intensity and factors associated with soil-transmitted helminths infections among preschool-age children in Hoima district, rural western Uganda. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:408. [PMID: 30119650 PMCID: PMC6098587 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3289-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Over 80% of morbidity due to soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) occurs in low-income countries. Children under 5 account for 20–30% of the burden in endemic areas. This study assessed the prevalence, intensity and factors associated with STH infections among preschool-age children (PSAC) in Hoima district, Uganda. The PSAC are particularly vulnerable because the chronicity of this condition usually affects their physical and mental growth and development. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out among 562 PSAC (1–5 years old) in 6 counties of Hoima district using Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) method. Stool samples from children were examined using the formol ether concentration technique for STH egg detection. Egg counts were represented as egg per gram (EPG). A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on factors associated with STH infection. Generalized linear models were used to analyze relationships between STH infection and associated factors. Results Overall STH prevalence was 26.5%. Hookworm infection was the most prevalent (18.5%), followed by A.lumbricoides (9.8%) and T.trichiura (0.5%). Prevalence of STH infection was significantly higher in children aged 5 years (Pearson chi-square test, p = 0.009) than in children aged 1 year. The general geometric mean (GM) counts for Hookworm infection was (696.1 EPG; range (530.3–913.8)) with girls having a higher GM (789.8 EPG; range (120–13,200)) than boys. Eating uncooked or unwashed vegetables (adj. Prevalence Ratio (PR) = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3–2.7) and fruits (adj.PR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1–2.8), indiscriminate disposal of young children’s faeces (adj.PR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.1–2.0); not washing hands after defecation (adj.PR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.9–3.6); and not deworming children regularly (adj.PR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1–1.8) were significantly associated with STH infection. Conclusion The prevalence of Soil transmitted helminths infection among preschool-age children in Hoima district significantly increased with age. Poor hygiene, inadequate sanitation and irregular deworming were associated with STH infections among PSAC in the study area. Intense health education on the importance of hygienic practices, improved sanitation and regular deworming of PSAC should be integrated into prevention and control programs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-018-3289-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvestro Ojja
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Stevens Kisaka
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michael Ediau
- Department of Health Policy Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Doreen Tuhebwe
- Department of Health Policy Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Angela N Kisakye
- Department of Health Policy Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdullah A Halage
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard K Mugambe
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joan N Mutyoba
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Schulz JD, Moser W, Hürlimann E, Keiser J. Preventive Chemotherapy in the Fight against Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis: Achievements and Limitations. Trends Parasitol 2018; 34:590-602. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2018.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
50
|
Role of nutrition, infection, and the microbiota in the efficacy of oral vaccines. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:1169-1177. [PMID: 29925624 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Oral vaccines (OVs), provide protection against pathogens that infect mucosal surfaces and their potency relies on their capacity to elicit T- and B-cell responses directed to these surfaces. Oral vaccination efficacy has been found to vary considerably with differences in geographical locations and socioeconomic status. Specifically, in children living in resource-poor countries, undernourishment and chronic gastrointestinal (GI) infection are associated with the failure of OVs, which is a tragic outcome for the children who would benefit most from mucosal-based protection from infection. Both undernutrition and GI infection have been shown to profoundly affect the microbiota, inducing 'dysbiosis' characterized by narrowed bacterial diversity and increased frequency of bacterial clades associated with the induction of inflammation. Recent studies have demonstrated that the microbiota exerts a profound effect on the development of mucosal immune responses. Therefore, it seems likely that OV failure in resource-poor regions is affected by alterations to the immune response driven by dysbiotic changes to the microbiota. Here, we review the contribution of the microbiota to OV efficacy in the context of diet and GI infection.
Collapse
|