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Rabinow S, Deforce K, Mitchell PD. Continuity in intestinal parasite infection in Aalst (Belgium) from the medieval to the early modern period (12th-17th centuries). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2023; 41:43-49. [PMID: 36947954 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize patterns in the taxonomic diversity of parasites infecting the population of Aalst, Belgium, between the 12th and 17th centuries. MATERIALS 14 sediment samples from seven cesspits dated 1100-1700 CE. METHODS Digital light microscopy and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS We identified eggs of four species of helminths: whipworm (Trichuris trichiura), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), Echinostoma fluke and Dicrocoelium fluke. ELISA results for protozoal parasites were negative. CONCLUSIONS Taxonomic diversity of parasite infections remained constant from the 12th to the 17th centuries. Roundworm and whipworm, spread by poor sanitation, were dominant. Two species of zoonotic parasites were also identified, including for the first time ever in the Low Countries the Echinostoma fluke, which may have been spread by eating uncooked freshwater animal foods. SIGNIFICANCE Analysis of sediment samples spanning such a broad chronology (six centuries) from a single city offers the opportunity to track diachronic change, which is rare in paleoparasitological studies. LIMITATIONS We were unable to acquire samples from cesspits dating to the 14th century. SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH Additional data from other Low Countries towns may strengthen the patterns identified in this paper. A similar approach can be used to investigate towns in different regions of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Rabinow
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DZ, UK
| | - Koen Deforce
- Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Vautierstraat 29, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; Department of Archaeology, Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Piers D Mitchell
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DZ, UK.
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Yang L, Zhang X, Zhao X, Xiang H. The Technological Advance and Application of Coprolite Analysis. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.797370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coprolites (mummified or fossilized feces), belonging to the group of ichnofossils, are fossilized remains of feces produced by animals. Various types of data from coprolites provide detailed evidence of the producer’s condition, like diet, intestinal microbiome, virus infection and parasites diseases. In addition, the palaeoenvironment information relevant to producers’ ecological niche can be drawn from taphonomy details the coprolites mirrored. At present, the phylogenetic clues of the producer’s population can be determined by advanced molecular biotechnologies. With the integration of multiple methods and techniques, coprolite has been widely accepted as an ideal material to study the diet, evolution, and palaeoenvironment of producers. In this paper, we reviewed the history of coprolite research, enumerated and interpreted the data recovered from coprolites, and explained their research value to palaeocoprology and evolutionary biology. Finally, we summarized the current directions of coprolite research and looked into its future prospects.
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Epidemiological insights from a large-scale investigation of intestinal helminths in Medieval Europe. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008600. [PMID: 32853225 PMCID: PMC7451528 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminth infections are among the World Health Organization's top neglected diseases with significant impact in many Less Economically Developed Countries. Despite no longer being endemic in Europe, the widespread presence of helminth eggs in archaeological deposits indicates that helminths represented a considerable burden in past European populations. Prevalence of infection is a key epidemiological feature that would influence the elimination of endemic intestinal helminths, for example, low prevalence rates may have made it easier to eliminate these infections in Europe without the use of modern anthelminthic drugs. To determine historical prevalence rates we analysed 589 grave samples from 7 European sites dated between 680 and 1700 CE, identifying two soil transmitted nematodes (Ascaris spp. and Trichuris trichiura) at all locations, and two food derived cestodes (Diphyllobothrium latum and Taenia spp.) at 4 sites. The rates of nematode infection in the medieval populations (1.5 to 25.6% for T. trichiura; 9.3-42.9% for Ascaris spp.) were comparable to those reported within modern endemically infected populations. There was some evidence of higher levels of nematode infection in younger individuals but not at all sites. The genetic diversity of T. trichiura ITS-1 in single graves was variable but much lower than with communal medieval latrine deposits. The prevalence of food derived cestodes was much lower (1.0-9.9%) than the prevalence of nematodes. Interestingly, sites that contained Taenia spp. eggs also contained D. latum which may reflect local culinary practices. These data demonstrate the importance of helminth infections in Medieval Europe and provide a baseline for studies on the epidemiology of infection in historical and modern contexts. Since the prevalence of medieval STH infections mirror those in modern endemic countries the factors affecting STH decline in Europe may also inform modern intervention campaigns.
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A comparative study of parasites in three latrines from Medieval and Renaissance Brussels, Belgium (14th-17th centuries). Parasitology 2020; 147:1443-1451. [PMID: 32741422 PMCID: PMC7677898 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to determine the species of parasite that infected the population of Brussels during the Medieval and Renaissance periods, and determine if there was notable variation between different households within the city. We compared multiple sediment layers from cesspits beneath three different latrines dating from the 14th–17th centuries. Helminths and protozoa were detected using microscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We identified Ascaris sp., Capillaria sp., Dicrocoelium dendriticum, Entamoeba histolytica, Fasciola hepatica, Giardia duodenalis, Taenia sp. and Trichuris sp. in Medieval samples, and continuing presence of Ascaris sp., D. dendriticum, F. hepatica, G. duodenalis and Trichuris sp. into the Renaissance. While some variation existed between households, there was a broadly consistent pattern with the domination of species spread by fecal contamination of food and drink (whipworm, roundworm and protozoa that cause dysentery). These data allow us to explore diet and hygiene, together with routes for the spread of fecal–oral parasites. Key factors explaining our findings are manuring practices with human excrement in market gardens, and flooding of the polluted River Senne during the 14th–17th centuries.
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Chessa D, Murgia M, Sias E, Deligios M, Mazzarello V, Fiamma M, Rovina D, Carenti G, Ganau G, Pintore E, Fiori M, Kay GL, Ponzeletti A, Cappuccinelli P, Kelvin DJ, Wain J, Rubino S. Metagenomics and microscope revealed T. trichiura and other intestinal parasites in a cesspit of an Italian nineteenth century aristocratic palace. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12656. [PMID: 32728085 PMCID: PMC7391740 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69497-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evidenced the presence of parasites in a cesspit of an aristocratic palace of nineteenth century in Sardinia (Italy) by the use of classical paleoparasitological techniques coupled with next-generation sequencing. Parasite eggs identified by microscopy included helminth genera pathogenic for humans and animals: the whipworm Trichuris sp., the roundworm Ascaris sp., the flatworm Dicrocoelium sp. and the fish tapeworm Diphyllobothrium sp. In addition, 18S rRNA metabarcoding and metagenomic sequencing analysis allowed the first description in Sardinia of aDNA of the human specific T. trichiura species and Ascaris genus. Their presence is important for understanding the health conditions, hygiene habits, agricultural practices and the diet of the local inhabitants in the period under study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Chessa
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Manuela Murgia
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Emanuela Sias
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Massimo Deligios
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Vittorio Mazzarello
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maura Fiamma
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Daniela Rovina
- Superintendence Archaeology of Sardinia, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Gabriele Carenti
- Department of Nature and Environmental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giulia Ganau
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Pintore
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Gemma L Kay
- Bob Champion Research and Educational Building, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
- The Quadram Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Piero Cappuccinelli
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - David J Kelvin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - John Wain
- Bob Champion Research and Educational Building, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
- The Quadram Institute, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Salvatore Rubino
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, V. le San Pietro 43/B, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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Urbanization and Parasitism: Archaeoparasitology of South Korea. BIOARCHAEOLOGY AND SOCIAL THEORY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-53417-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Knorr DA, Smith WPW, Ledger ML, Peña-Chocarro L, Pérez-Jordà G, Clapés R, de Fátima Palma M, Mitchell PD. Intestinal parasites in six Islamic medieval period latrines from 10 th-11 th century Córdoba (Spain) and 12 th-13 th century Mértola (Portugal). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2019; 26:75-83. [PMID: 31336315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2019.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the types of intestinal parasites that infected people living in Islamic period southern Iberia (al-Andalus), and compare with other regions of Europe. MATERIALS Four cesspits from 10th-11th century CE Córdoba (Spain), and two from 12th-13th century Mértola (Portugal). METHODS Sediment from each cesspit was analyzed using digital light microscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Analysis revealed eggs of roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) in every cesspit analyzed, but no evidence of other species of helminth or protozoal parasites. CONCLUSION Differences were noted between parasite species found in Mediterranean Europe and northern Europe, where a range of zoonotic parasites were endemic alongside sanitation-related parasites. We suggest that the scarcity of zoonotic parasites in southern Europe in the medieval period may reflect contrasts in climate between northern and southern Europe. SIGNIFICANCE The repeated identification of roundworm eggs suggests that al-Andalus was less hygienic than historically depicted. We did not note a difference between parasites found in Muslim and Christian regions of Iberia, and the predominance of parasites spread by fecal contamination of food is consistent with past research. LIMITATIONS The eggs of some species of parasite are fragile, so may theoretically have been present in the population but did not survive for us to identify them. SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH To further investigate the role of climate upon the parasites that affected past human populations.
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Borba VH, Machado-Silva JR, Le Bailly M, Iñiguez AM. Worldwide paleodistribution of capillariid parasites: Paleoparasitology, current status of phylogeny and taxonomic perspectives. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216150. [PMID: 31039193 PMCID: PMC6490956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Paleoparasitology, the study of parasites in the past, brings the knowledge of where and when they occurred in preterit populations. Some groups of parasites, as capillariids, have a complex and controversial systematic, hindering the paleoparasitological diagnosis. In this article, we synthesized the occurrence of capillariids in both the New and the Old World in ancient times, and discussed the difficulty of the diagnosis of species and the strategies for identification. The present review also shows the current status of the phylogeny in capillariids and indicates the necessity to try new approaches for a better understanding of capillariid paleodistribution. Methods For the systematic review, a predefined guideline defined by PRISMA was used. The articles collected were identified, screened, and included in the review following criteria for eligibility. The current status of the phylogeny of capillariids was accessed using MUSCLE, Bioedit v.7.0.5 and MEGA v. 7.0.21 programs. Results The review discussed 38 articles that presented information about capillariids in past populations. Most of capillariid eggs found in the New and Old World were not identified. However, Calodium hepaticum eggs were the most identified, as some from Eucoleus genus. It was observed that sites from the New World had a better chance for capillariid egg identification, due to previous knowledge of its host, when compared to the Old World. In the 18S rDNA phylogenetic analyses, two datasets were constructed, one including sequences from 7 Moravec’s genera, where 3 genus-specific clusters, with high bootstrap values, could be observed for Capillaria (ML = 99%, NJ = 96%), Eucoleus (ML / NJ = 100%) and Paratrichosoma (ML / NJ = 100%). A fourth cluster of 18S rDNA dataset I revealed lack of definition of Pearsonema and Aonchotheca genera. The 18S rDNA dataset II comprised 8 Moravec’s genera and defined 3 clusters, 2 genus-specific for Eucoleus (ML = 99%, NJ = 100%) and Capillaria (ML / NJ = 98%). The third 18S rDNA dataset II cluster included 6 genera and exhibited, once again, Pearsonema and Aonchotheca poor discrimination. The cox1 gene data consist of 4 Moravec’s genera, and in spite of grouping some species-specific clusters, did not show genera-specific definition. Conclusions Despite the numerous archaeological findings, both in the New and the Old Worlds, the identification of capillariid species based on the morphology and morphometry of eggs remains imprecise, often resulting in a generic diagnosis of a group or morphotype of capillariid. Capillariid is one of the most diverse group of helminths recovered in archaeological sites. The phylogenetic trees produced in this study showed limited genetic information available, unresolved genera and incongruence with the classical taxonomy. The elucidation of the paleodistribution of capillariids can give insights of the ancient host-parasite associations but also in modern sceneries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Hugo Borba
- Laboratório de Helmintologia Romero Lascasas Porto, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FCM/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratório de Biologia de Tripanosomatídeos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Machado-Silva
- Laboratório de Helmintologia Romero Lascasas Porto, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FCM/UERJ), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Matthieu Le Bailly
- University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, CNRS UMR 6249 Chrono-environment, Besançon, France
| | - Alena Mayo Iñiguez
- Laboratório de Biologia de Tripanosomatídeos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Paknezhad N, Mazdarani FH, Hessari M, Mobedi I, Najafi F, Bizhani N, Makki M, Hassanpour G, Mowlavi G. Retrieving ascarid and taeniid eggs from the biological remains of a Neolithic dog from the late 9th millennium BC in Western Iran. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2017; 112:593-595. [PMID: 28902284 PMCID: PMC5572444 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760160420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paleoparasitology reveals the status of parasitic infections in humans and animals in ancient times based on parasitic particles found in biological remains from archaeological excavations. This line of research emerged in Iran in 2013. OBJECTIVE The identification of parasites from Neolithic times is an attractive subject that shows the oldest origins of parasitic infections in a given geographical region. From an archaeological point of view, this archaeological site is well-known for animal domestication and agriculture in ancient Iran. METHODS In this study, soil deposited on the surface and in the pores of a dog pelvic bone was carefully collected and rehydrated using trisodium phosphate solution. FINDINGS The results showed ascarid and taeniid eggs retrieved from the biological remains of a dog excavated at the East Chia Sabz archaeological site, which dates back to the Neolithic period (8100 BC). MAIN CONCLUSION The current findings clearly illustrate the natural circulation of nematode and cestode parasites among dogs at that time. These ancient helminth eggs can also be used to track the oldest parasitic infections in the Iranian plateau and contribute to the paleoparasitological documentation of the Fertile Crescent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Paknezhad
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farbod Haji Mazdarani
- Islamic Azad University, Pre-historic Archaeology, Central Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Hessari
- University of Art, Faculty of Preservation and Restoration, Department of Archaeology, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Iraj Mobedi
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Najafi
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negar Bizhani
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsasadat Makki
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Hassanpour
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Mowlavi
- Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran
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Cho PY, Park JM, Hwang MK, Park SH, Park YK, Jeon BY, Kim TS, Lee HW. Discovery of Parasite Eggs in Archeological Residence during the 15th Century in Seoul, Korea. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2017; 55:357-361. [PMID: 28719964 PMCID: PMC5523905 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2017.55.3.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
During civil engineering construction near Sejong-ro, Jongro-ku, Seoul, cultural sites were found that are thought to have been built in the 15th century. This area was home to many different people as well as the leaders of the Yi dynasty. To gain further insight into the life styles of the inhabitants of the old capital, soil samples were collected from various areas such as toilets, water foundations, and drainage ways. Parasite eggs were examined by microscopy after 5 g soil samples were rehydrated in 0.5% trisodium phosphate solution. A total of 662 parasite eggs from 7 species were found. Species with the highest number of eggs found were Ascaris lumbricoides (n=483), followed by Trichuris trichiura (138), Trichuris vulpis (21), Fasciola hepatica (8), Clonorchis sinensis (6), Paragonimus westermani (4), and Metagonimus yokogawai (2). These findings indirectly indicate the food habits of the people in Yi dynasty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyo Yeon Cho
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea
| | - Jung-Min Park
- Han Ul Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, Suwon 16348, Korea
| | - Myeong-Ki Hwang
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea
| | - Seo Hye Park
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea.,Department of Hygienic Research, Incheon Metropolitan City Public Health and Environment Research Institute, Incheon 22320, Korea
| | - Yun-Kyu Park
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea
| | - Bo-Young Jeon
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Yonsei University, School of Public Health, Wonju 26493, Korea
| | - Tong-Soo Kim
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon 22212, Korea
| | - Hyeong-Woo Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Yonsei University, School of Public Health, Wonju 26493, Korea
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Seo M, Chai JY, Kim MJ, Shim SY, Ki HC, Shin DH. Detection Trend of Helminth Eggs in the Strata Soil Samples from Ancient Historic Places of Korea. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2016; 54:555-563. [PMID: 27853112 PMCID: PMC5127532 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2016.54.5.555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
For several years, we have conducted a series of studies on the patterns of ancient parasitism prevailing in the soil of rural and urban areas of past Kingdom of Korea. Actually, during our survey of paleoparasitology in archaeological sites of Korean peninsula, numerous ancient parasite eggs were discovered in the samples from the city districts of Hansung (Joseon) and Buyeo (Baikje), the palace moat at Gyeongju (Silla), shell-midden site at Bonghwang-dong (Silla to Joseon), and the reservoir found in Hwawangsansung fortress (Silla). By the paleoparasitological studies, with respect to parasitism in the high-density populations of ancient towns and cities, we have managed to catch glimpses of the patterns prevalent therein: a serious parasitic contamination of the soil in ancient urban areas, but not in rural areas of the past. Our historical research also proposed the plausible mechanism of parasite infection very serious indeed among urban populations in Korean history. Although city dwelling doubtless has accrued significant benefits for people and populations with agriculture, it can be equally supposed that living in such highly populated areas might have facilitated the spread of parasite infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Seo
- Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Mummy, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea.,Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07653, Korea
| | - Myeung Ju Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116, Korea
| | - Sang Yuk Shim
- Buyeo Cultural Heritage Center, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do 33193, Korea
| | - Ho Chul Ki
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Dong Hoon Shin
- Bioanthropology and Paleopathology Laboratory, Department of Anatomy/Institute of Forensic Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
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Abstract
The paleomicrobiology of coprolites, which are fossilized fecal materials, has already yielded data about various organisms, including micro-eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea, thus expanding our comprehension of ancient human dietary habits, gut microbiota, and intestinal and systemic infections. This mini-review briefly describes previous works and summarizes the main techniques used in handling coprolites and the findings obtained about ancient gut microbiota. Past intestinal and systemic infections are outlined.
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Abstract
The archaeological evidence for parasites in the Roman era is presented in order to demonstrate the species present at that time, and highlight the health consequences for people living under Roman rule. Despite their large multi-seat public latrines with washing facilities, sewer systems, sanitation legislation, fountains and piped drinking water from aqueducts, we see the widespread presence of whipworm (Trichuris trichiura), roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) and Entamoeba histolytica that causes dysentery. This would suggest that the public sanitation measures were insufficient to protect the population from parasites spread by fecal contamination. Ectoparasites such as fleas, head lice, body lice, pubic lice and bed bugs were also present, and delousing combs have been found. The evidence fails to demonstrate that the Roman culture of regular bathing in the public baths reduced the prevalence of these parasites. Fish tapeworm was noted to be widely present, and was more common than in Bronze and Iron Age Europe. It is possible that the Roman enthusiasm for fermented, uncooked fish sauce (garum) may have facilitated the spread of this helminth. Roman medical practitioners such as Galen were aware of intestinal worms, explaining their existence and planning treatment using the humoural theory of the period.
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Rocha EJGD, Basano SDA, Souza MMD, Honda ER, Castro MBD, Colodel EM, e Silva JCD, Barros LP, Rodrigues ES, Camargo LMA. Study of the prevalence of Capillaria hepatica in humans and rodents in an urban area of the city of Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2015; 57:39-46. [PMID: 25651325 PMCID: PMC4325522 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652015000100006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatic capillariosis, caused by Capillaria hepatica (Calodium hepaticum) (Bancroft, 1893), Travassos, 1915 (Nematoda, Trichinelloidea, Capillariidae), is a common zoonosis in rodents but is rare in humans. Seventy-two cases in humans have been reported worldwide since the first case was described by MACARTHUR in 192417,27. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Capillaria hepatica in humans and rodents in an urban area of Porto Velho, the capital of Rondônia, in Brazil. METHODS After conducting a census of the area, 490 residents were randomly selected, and, after signing a term of consent, provided blood samples that were screened for anti-Capillaria hepatica antibodies. Simultaneously, rats were captured to assess the prevalence of this parasite in rodents by histopathological examination in liver sections. RESULTS A prevalence of 1.8% was found among residents who had specific antibodies at a dilution of 1:150, indicating exposure to parasite eggs; 0.8% of the subjects also had positive titers at a dilution of 1:400, indicating true infection. The prevalence in rats was 2%. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of infection with this parasite among humans and rats was low. While the prevalence encountered among humans was within the limits reported in the literature, the prevalence among rodents was much lower.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Márcia Maria de Souza
- Laboratório de Patologia Experimental, Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, CPqGM/FIOCRUZ, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Márcio Botelho de Castro
- Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, Via L4 Norte s/n°, Hospital Universitário, UnB Universidade de Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Edson Moleta Colodel
- Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, CLIMEV. Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, FAMEV, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso/UFMT, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | | | - Lauro Prado Barros
- Faculdade São Lucas. R. Alexandre Guimarães, Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil
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Dufour B, Hugot JP, Lepetz S, Le Bailly M. The horse pinworm ( Oxyuris equi ) in archaeology during the Holocene: Review of past records and new data. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 33:77-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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16
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Mitchell PD. Human Parasites in Medieval Europe: Lifestyle, Sanitation and Medical Treatment. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2015; 90:389-420. [PMID: 26597073 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2015.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Parasites have been infecting humans throughout our evolution. However, not all people suffered with the same species or to the same intensity throughout this time. Our changing way of life has altered the suitability of humans to infection by each type of parasite. This analysis focuses upon the evidence for parasites from archaeological excavations at medieval sites across Europe. Comparison between the patterns of infection in the medieval period allows us to see how changes in sanitation, herding animals, growing and fertilizing crops, the fishing industry, food preparation and migration all affected human susceptibility to different parasites. We go on to explore how ectoparasites may have spread infectious bacterial diseases, and also consider what medieval medical practitioners thought of parasites and how they tried to treat them. While modern research has shown the use of a toilet decreases the risk of contracting certain intestinal parasites, the evidence for past societies presented here suggests that the invention of latrines had no observable beneficial effects upon intestinal health. This may be because toilets were not sufficiently ubiquitous until the last century, or that the use of fresh human faeces for manuring crops still ensured those parasite species were easily able to reinfect the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piers D Mitchell
- Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
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17
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Le Bailly M, Landolt M, Mauchamp L, Dufour B. Intestinal parasites in First World War German soldiers from "Kilianstollen", Carspach, France. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109543. [PMID: 25333988 PMCID: PMC4198135 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Paleoparasitological investigations revealed the presence of intestinal helminths in samples taken from the abdominal cavities of two German soldiers, recovered in the First World War site named “Kilianstollen” in Carspach, France. Eggs from roundworm, whipworm, tapeworm and capillariids were identified. The morphological and morphometrical comparison, followed by statistical analyses, showed that the Carspach capillariid eggs are similar to rodent parasites. Poor sanitary conditions in the trenches, the lack of knowledge of parasites, and the widespread presence of commensal animals, can explain the occurrence of such parasites in human intestines. This study is the second dealing with 20th century human samples. It confirms the presence of intestinal worms in First World War German soldiers. In this case study, the application of statistics to precise measurements facilitated the diagnosis of ancient helminth eggs and completed the microscopic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Le Bailly
- University of Franche-Comte, CNRS UMR 6249 Chrono-Environment, Besancon, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Michaël Landolt
- PAIR, CNRS UMR 7044 Archimède, ZA Sud, CIRSUD, Sélestat, France
| | - Leslie Mauchamp
- University of Franche-Comte, CNRS UMR 6249 Chrono-Environment, Besancon, France
| | - Benjamin Dufour
- University of Franche-Comte, CNRS UMR 6249 Chrono-Environment, Besancon, France
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Mowlavi G, Kacki S, Dupouy-Camet J, Mobedi I, Makki M, Harandi MF, Naddaf SR. Probable hepatic capillariosis and hydatidosis in an adolescent from the late Roman period buried in Amiens (France). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 21:9. [PMID: 24572211 PMCID: PMC3936287 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2014010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Two calcified objects recovered from a 3rd to 4th-century grave of an adolescent in Amiens (Northern France) were identified as probable hydatid cysts. By using thin-section petrographic techniques, probable Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica) eggs were identified in the wall of the cysts. Human hepatic capillariosis has not been reported from archaeological material so far, but could be expected given the poor level of environmental hygiene prevalent in this period. Identification of tissue-dwelling parasites such as C. hepaticum in archaeological remains is particularly dependent on preservation conditions and taphonomic changes and should be interpreted with caution due to morphological similarities with Trichuris sp. eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gholamreza Mowlavi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 6446, Tehran 14155, Iran - Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 6446, Tehran 14155, Iran
| | - Sacha Kacki
- PACEA, UMR 5199, Anthropologie des Populations Passées et Présentes, Université de Bordeaux, Bâtiment B8, Allée Geoffroy St Hilaire, CS 50023, 33615 Pessac Cedex, France
| | - Jean Dupouy-Camet
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital Cochin Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris Descartes, 27 Faubourg St Jacques, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Iraj Mobedi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 6446, Tehran 14155, Iran
| | - Mahsasadat Makki
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 6446, Tehran 14155, Iran
| | - Majid Fasihi Harandi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman 76169-14111, Iran
| | - Saied Reza Naddaf
- Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, 69 Pasteur Avenue, Tehran 13169-43551, Iran
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Araujo A, Reinhard K, Ferreira LF, Pucu E, Chieffi PP. Paleoparasitology: the origin of human parasites. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2013; 71:722-6. [DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20130159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Parasitism is composed by three subsystems: the parasite, the host, and the environment. There are no organisms that cannot be parasitized. The relationship between a parasite and its host species most of the time do not result in damage or disease to the host. However, in a parasitic disease the presence of a given parasite is always necessary, at least in a given moment of the infection. Some parasite species that infect humans were inherited from pre-hominids, and were shared with other phylogenetically close host species, but other parasite species were acquired from the environment as humans evolved. Human migration spread inherited parasites throughout the globe. To recover and trace the origin and evolution of infectious diseases, paleoparasitology was created. Paleoparasitology is the study of parasites in ancient material, which provided new information on the evolution, paleoepidemiology, ecology and phylogenetics of infectious diseases.
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Kim MJ, Shin DH, Song MJ, Song HY, Seo M. Paleoparasitological surveys for detection of helminth eggs in archaeological sites of Jeolla-do and Jeju-do. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2013; 51:489-92. [PMID: 24039296 PMCID: PMC3770884 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2013.51.4.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Revised: 07/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A paleoparasitological survey to detect helminth eggs was performed in archaeological sites of Jeolla-do and Jeju-do, the Republic of Korea. Total 593 soil samples were collected in 12 sites of Jeolla-do and 5 sites of Jeju-do from April to November 2011, and examined by the methods of Pike and coworkers. A total of 4 helminth eggs, 2 eggs each for Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris sp., were found in soil samples from 1 site, in Hyangyang-ri, Jangheung-eup, Jangheung-gun, Jeollanam-do. The egg-recovery layer was presumed to represent a 19th century farm, which fact suggested the use of human manures. This is the third archaeological discovery of parasite eggs in Jeolla-do. Additionally, no helminth eggs in archaeological sites of Jeju-do is an interesting problem to be solved in the further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myeong-Ju Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Korea
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Jaeger LH, Taglioretti V, Fugassa MH, Dias O, Neto J, Iñiguez AM. Paleoparasitological results from XVIII century human remains from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Acta Trop 2013. [PMID: 23200641 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Paleoparasitological studies of the Brazilian colonial period are scarce. A paleoparasitological analysis was performed on human remains from the archeological site Praça XV Cemetery in Rio de Janeiro, dating from the early 18th to 19th Centuries. The samples were obtained from the Institute of the Brazilian Archaeology collection, and showed evidence of washing and brushing. Sediments were extracted from sacral foramina by scraping. Sediments from skulls were used as negative paleoparasitological controls. Spontaneous sedimentation method was performed prior to microscopic analysis. The results revealed that 8 of 10 individuals were infected with intestinal helminths and/or protozoa. Eggs of the nematodes Trichuris sp. and Ascaris sp. as well as a single taeniid egg were found. Protozoa cysts suggestive of Entamoeba sp. were also observed. Trichuris sp. was the most frequent and abundant parasite, found in 70% of individuals (26 eggs). The study showed the importance of analysis of sediment from human remains preserved in museum or scientific collections, even those subjected to a curating procedure. The levels of infection revealed here should be considered underestimations. This is the first paleoparasitological study from Rio de Janeiro city for the Brazilian colonial period and the first report of human Taenia sp. in the New World.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Hubert Jaeger
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Microorganismos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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22
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Lee HJ, Shin DH, Seo M. Discovery of taeniid eggs from a 17th century tomb in Korea. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2011; 49:327-9. [PMID: 22072839 PMCID: PMC3210856 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2011.49.3.327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2011] [Revised: 04/25/2011] [Accepted: 04/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Even though Taenia spp. eggs are occasionally discovered from archeological remains around the world, these eggs have never been discovered in ancient samples from Korea. When we attempted to re-examine the archeological samples maintained in our collection, the eggs of Taenia spp., 5 in total number, were recovered from a tomb of Gongju-si. The eggs had radially striated embryophore, and 37.5-40.0 µm×37.5 µm in size. This is the first report on taeniid eggs from ancient samples of Korea, and it is suggested that intensive examination of voluminous archeological samples should be needed for identification of Taenia spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Jung Lee
- Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Mummy, College of Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Korea
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23
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Sianto L, Chame M, Silva CS, Gonçalves ML, Reinhard K, Fugassa M, Araújo A. Animal helminths in human archaeological remains: a review of zoonoses in the past. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2009; 51:119-30. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652009000300001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2008] [Accepted: 04/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The authors present a review of records of intestinal parasitic helminths from animals in human archaeological remains, reported since the emergence of paleopathological studies. The objective was to relate paleoparasitological findings to geographic, biotic, and abiotic factors from the environment in which the prehistoric populations lived, and understand some aspects related to the process of human dispersion and biological and cultural evolution. Modification of eating habits and the incorporation of new cultural practices are analyzed from the perspective of zoonoses from prehistory to the present day, especially in Brazilian indigenous populations. Three tables identifying the helminths, their natural hosts, dates, and sites of archaeological findings complete this review. In conclusion, various zoonoses known today have occurred since antiquity, and these data, combined with studies on the emergence and reemergence of diseases, could make possible to compose scenarios for the future.
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Leles D, Araújo A, Ferreira LF, Vicente ACP, Iñiguez AM. Molecular paleoparasitological diagnosis of Ascaris sp. from coprolites: new scenery of ascariasis in pre-Colombian South America times. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2008; 103:106-8. [PMID: 18327505 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762008005000004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2007] [Accepted: 12/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Paleoparasitological studies using microscopy showed that Ascarisand Trichuris trichiura are the human intestinal parasites most found in archaeological sites. However, in pre-Columbian South American archaeological sites, Ascaris is rare. In this work we standardized a molecular methodology for Ascaris diagnosis directly from ancient DNA retrieved from coprolites. Using cythochrome b gene (142 bp) target, ancient DNA sequences were retrieved from South American samples, negative by microscopy. Moreover, the methodology applied was sensitive enough to detect ancient DNA extracted from 30 Ascaris eggs from an European coprolite. These results revealed a new scenery for the paleodistribution of Ascaris in South America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Leles
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, FiocruzRio de Janeiro, Brasil
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