Anemia por uncinarias, una infección subestimada por el clínico / Hookworm anemia, an infection underestimated by clinician

La uncinariasis fue descrita por primera vez por Dubini en 1838. Es una helmintiasis intestinal causada por el Necator americanus y/o Ancylostoma duodenale. Frecuentemente son endémicas de áreas tropicales y subtropicales; afecta tanto a niños como a adultos. La transmisión asciende cuando existen entornos socioculturales y demográficos que favorecen la contaminación fecal, por lo que es considerado un problema de salud pública en el mundo. Se presenta el caso de un paciente masculino de 20 años que acudió a urgencias por astenia, adinamia, taquicardia y palidez mucocutánea generalizada; el hemograma reportó anemia severa y eosinofilia. Se requirió transfusión de 4 UI de glóbulos rojos y sulfato ferroso. El examen coprológico mostró infección por Necator americanus, que fue tratada con albendazol y, posteriormente, fue egresado de la institución sanitaria. La infección por uncinarias constituye una causa olvidada para el clínico de hemorragia de las vías digestivas y desarrollo de anemia. Por tanto, el presente estudio destaca que esta parasitosis es una causa importante en el diagnóstico diferencial. Además, se ofrece mayor importancia a las estrategias preventivas como la capacitación a profesionales de salud, el refuerzo de técnicas de aseo, la disminución de la contaminación y el aumento de la higiene personal(AU)

Hookworm infection was first described by Dubini in 1838. It is an intestinal helminth infection caused by Necator americanus and/or Ancylostoma duodenale. They are frequently endemic to tropical and subtropical areas and affect both children and adults. Transmission increases when there are socio-cultural and demographic environments that favor fecal contamination; therefore, it is a public health problem worldwide. We describe the case of a 20-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency department with asthenia, adynamia, tachycardia, and generalized mucocutaneous pallor. The blood test showed severe anemia and eosinophilia. Transfusion of 4 IU of red blood cells and ferrous sulphate was required. The coprological test showed infection by Necator americanus, which was treated with albendazole. Afterwards, the patient was discharged from the health institution. Hookworm infection is a neglected cause of gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia by the clinician. Therefore, the present study highlights this parasitosis as an important cause in the differential diagnosis. In addition, greater importance is given to preventive strategies such as training the health professionals, reinforcement of hygiene techniques, decrease of contamination and increase of proper personal hygiene(AU)

Role of type 2 innate lymphoid cells in helminth infections: a review / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Helminth infections may trigger host innate and adaptive immune responses. Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are an important factor involved in type 2 immune responses, and produce a large number of T helper 2 cell (Th2) cytokines following stimulation by interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), which play a critical role in parasite clearance and tissue repair. Following helminth infections, autocrine factors, mast cells, enteric nervous system and Th2 cells have been recently found to be involved in regulation of ILC2. Unraveling the role of ILC2 in immune response against helminth infections is of great value for basic research and drug development. This review summarizes the research progress on ILC2 and its role in helminth infections.

Comparación de técnicas coproparasitológicas para el diagnóstico de geohelmintos intestinales en niños Lambayecanos

Los helmintos transmitidos a través del suelo pueden afectar el desempeño educativo y desenvolvimiento normal de los niños. Objetivo: comparar cinco técnicas coproparasitológicas para el diagnóstico de geohelmintos intestinales en niños lambayecanos. Métodos: estudio descriptivo de corte transversal. Se recolectaron 150 muestras de materia fecal de niños que residían en los distritos de Túcume y Lambayeque en el departamento de Lambayeque (Perú), durante el año 2021. Los niños y niñas tenían entre 4 y 12 años de edad. Previo a la recolección, se les explicó a los padres de familia y apoderados de los menores las condiciones preclínicas adecuadas. Se calculó la sensibilidad, especificidad, concordancia, valor predictivo positivo y negativo de las técnicas de Baerman, sedimentación rápida, Willis Molloy, Sheathers Sugar y examen directo de heces. Los padres y apoderados autorizaron la participación de los menores en el estudio. El estudio contó con la aprobación del comité de ética de la Universidad Nacional de Jaén. Resultados: la prevalencia geohelmintos intestinales fue del 20,7%, 19,3% y 18,0% con las técnicas de Baerman, sedimentación rápida y examen directo, respectivamente. Además, las técnicas de Baerman y de sedimentación rápida reportaron mayor sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo y negativo. Se obtuvo alto índice de concordancia para las técnicas de Baerman (0,894) y sedimentación rápida (0,891). Conclusiones: las técnicas de Baerman y de sedimentación rápida permitieron mayor recuperación de parásitos, respecto al examen directo. Además, las especies de geohelmintos intestinales más identificadas en niños lambayecanos fueron Ascaris lumbricoides, Hymenolepis nana y Ancilostomideos.

Helminths transmitted through the soil can affect the educational performance and normal development of children. Objective: to compare five coproparasitological techniques for the diagnosis of intestinal geohelminths in Lambayecan children. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study. 150 stool samples were collected from children residing in the districts of Túcume and Lambayeque in the department of Lambayeque (Peru), during the year 2021. The boys and girls included were between 4 and 12 years of age. Prior to the collection, the appropriate preclinical conditions are explained to the parents and guardians of the minors. The sensitivity, specificity, concordance, positive and negative predictive value of the Baerman, rapid sedimentation, Willis Molloy, Sheathers Sugar and direct stool examination techniques were calculated. Parents and guardians authorized the participation of minors in the study. The study was approved by the ethics committee of the National University of Jaén. Results: the prevalence of intestinal geohelminths was 20,7%, 19,3% and 18,0% with the Baerman, rapid sedimentation and direct examination techniques, respectively. In addition, the Baerman and rapid sedimentation techniques reported higher sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value. A high concordance index was obtained for the Baerman (0,894) and rapid sedimentation (0,891) techniques. Conclusions: the Baerman and rapid sedimentation techniques allowed greater recovery of parasites compared to direct stool examination. In addition, the species of intestinal geohelminths most identified in children from Lambaye were Ascaris lumbricoides, Hymenolepis nana and Ancilostomideos.

Progress of researches on molecular mechanisms underlying helminth infection-mediated type 1/2 host immune responses / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Helminth infections are widespread worldwide, and pose a serious threat to human health and animal husbandry development. Understanding of helminth-host interactions is critical to effective control and ultimate eradication of helminthiasis. Following host infections, helminth infections firstly initiate innate immune responses and then mediate adaptive immune responses. Type 1 immune responses are predominant at early stage of helminth infections, which mainly play anti-infective actions, and type 2 immune responses are predominant at late stage of infections, which are associated with helminth immune evasion and aggravation of tissue damages. This review summarizes the progress of researches on type 1/2 immune responses-associated signaling pathways mediated by helminth infections in hosts.

Detection of antigens in paraffin sections of worms and snails infected by Angiostrongylus cantonensis by immunofluorescence reaction / Detecção de antígenos em cortes parafinados de vermes e caramujos infectados por Angiostrongylus cantonensis pela reação de imunofluorescência

The Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) was used to identify stage-specific antigenic structures in paraffin sections of female larvae and worms and snails tissues, infected with third stage larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Sera from eosinophilic meningitis cases were used to assess reactivity. Non-reactive sera from patients with other parasitic diseases and from individuals without other etiologies were used as controls for cross-reactivity. Larvae and worms showed high reactivity to IgG antibodies. IgM antibodies reacted with low intensity only to larvae. Fluorescent reactions were observed in the cuticles and internal structures on worms sections, with a marked reaction in the uterus content. In the snail tissues, the larvae were found exclusively inside the granulomas, with fluorescent markings in the cuticles of the larvae and inside the granulomatous tissues. This fluorescent pattern suggests the presence of excretory/secretory antigens distributed throughout the granulomas. Expressive cross-reactivity occurred in sera from patients with other parasitic diseases, especially strongyloidiasis. The use of IFA applied to paraffin sections to identify structures with antigenic potential and the study of new serological markers, can contribute to the improvement of the laboratory diagnosis of eosinophilic meningitis. (AU)

A Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (RIFI) foi utilizada para localizar antígenos em estruturas estágio-específicas em cortes parafinados de vermes fêmeas e em tecidos de caramujos do Gênero Biomphalaria infectados com larvas de terceiro estágio de Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Soros de casos confirmados de meningite eosinfílica foram usados para avaliação da reatividade. Soros não reagentes de casos suspeitos; de pacientes com outras parasitoses e de indivíduos sem outras etiologias foram utilizados como controle de reatividade cruzada. Anticorpos da classe IgG foram reativos para antígenos presentes nos dois estágios e, anticorpos IgM somente para o estágio larvário. Nos cortes de vermes, as marcações fluorescentes foram assinaladas nas cutículas e estruturas internas, com acentuada marcação para os conteúdos uterinos. Nos tecidos dos caramujos as larvas foram encontradas exclusivamente no interior dos granulomas, com marcações fluorescentes nas cutículas das larvas e no interior dos tecidos granulomatosos. O padrão de fluorescência no granuloma sugere a marcação de antígenos excretores/secretores. Reatividade cruzada mais expressiva ocorreu com anticorpos presentes em soros de pacientes com outras parasitoses, com destaque para estrongiloidíase. A RIFI em cortes parafinados abre novas perspectivas para identificação de antígenos e de marcadores sorológicos, que possam ser aplicados no aprimoramento do diagnóstico laboratorial da meningite eosinofílica. (AU)

Spatial-temporal clustering analysis of soil-transmitted helminth transmission risk in Jiangxi, 2016-2019 / 中国热带医学

@#Abstract: Objective　To analyze the epidemic characteristics of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) by the spatial epidemiological method in Jiangxi Province. Methods　Surveillance data of STH in Jiangxi Province from 2016 to 2019 were collected for descriptive epidemiological analysis. The space-time permutation distribution of STH infection areas was analyzed with spatial autocorrelation, hotspot analysis methods and retrospective space-time permutation scan statistics. Results　The infection rates of STH were 1.32% (947/71 766), 1.14% (803/70 547), 0.87% (604/69 507) and 0.90% (628/69 620), respectively, and the differences were statistically significant in different years (P<0.01). The rates of hookworm infection were 0.65% (466/71 766), 0.64% (450/70 547), 0.48% (336/69 507) and 0.52% (362/69 620), respectively, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.01). The infection rates of Ascaris lumbricoides were 0.55% (393/71 766), 0.41% (287/70 547), 0.32% (221/69 507) and 0.32% (225/69 620), respectively, and the differences were statistically significant in different years (P<0.01). The infection rates of Trichuris trichiura were 0.17% (125/71 766), 0.10% (74/70 547), 0.08% (57/69 507) and 0.07% (49/69 620), respectively, and the differences were statistically significant among different years (P<0.01). The results of global spatial autocorrelation analysis showed that there was a spatial autocorrelation index Moran's I value of hookworm infection rate in 2016, Trichuris trichiura infection rate in 2016, 2018 and 2019, with statistical significance (P<0.05). The results of hotspot analysis, SaTScan and FleXScan spatial and temporal scanning analysis showed that there were high-value aggregation regions for each species in each year. Conclusion　The infection rates of STH, hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura showed a decreasing trend and space-time clustering from 2016 to 2019. It should be taken into account in the formulation of control strategies.

Ecology and diversity of metazoan parasites infecting Geophagus altifrons (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) from the Amazon River system in northern Brazil / Ecologia e diversidade de parasitos metazoários infectando Geophagus altifrons (Cichliformes: Cichlidae) do sistema do Rio Amazonas no norte do Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the ecology and diversity of community and infracommunities of metazoan parasites Geophagus altifrons (Heckel, 1840) in Rio Jari, in the state of Amapá, in the eastern Amazon region. From the total of 31 fish examined, 90.3% were parasitized by one or more species, collecting a total number of 806 parasites. The parasites species identified were: Sciadicleithrum geophagi, Posthodiplostomum sp., Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus, Raphidascaris (Sprentacaris) sp., Genarchella genarchella, Gorytocephalus spectabilis and Ergasilus xinguensis. Most of the parasites showed an aggregate dispersion pattern. Brillouin diversity index, uniformity and species richness of parasites were low. The component community of parasites was constituted by ectoparasites and endoparasites, but with a predominance of ectoparasites. The body size of hosts had a low effect on the parasites infracommunities. This first eco-epidemiological study for G. altifrons reports these parasites in a host, for the first time, with the exception of S. geophagi and E. xinguensis.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a ecologia e a diversidade da comunidade e infracomunidades de parasitos metazoários em Geophagus altifrons (Heckel, 1840), do Rio Jari, estado do Amapá, na região da Amazônia oriental. De um total de 31 peixes examinados, 90,3% estavam parasitados por uma ou mais espécies e 806 parasitos foram coletados. As espécies de parasitos identificadas foram: Sciadicleithrum geophagi, Posthodiplostomum sp., Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus, Raphidascaris (Sprentacaris) sp., Genarchella genarchella, Gorytocephalus spectabilis e Ergasilus xinguensis. A maioria dos parasitos apresentaram dispersão agregada. Foi baixo o índice de diversidade de Brillouin, uniformidade e riqueza de espécies de parasitos. A comunidade componente de parasitos foi constituída por ectoparasitos e endoparasitos, mas com predominância de ectoparasitos. O tamanho corporal dos hospedeiros teve baixo efeito sobre as infracomunidades dos parasitos. Este primeiro estudo ecoepidemiológico para G. altifrons registra pela primeira vez estes parasitos para este hospedeiro, exceto S. geophagi e E. xinguensis.

Evaluation of ecto and endo parasitic fauna of Schizothorax plagiostomus inhabitants of river Swat, Khyber PakhtunKhwa, Pakistan / Avaliação da fauna ecto e endoparasitária de Schizothorax plagiostomus habitantes do rio Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão

Abstract Fish is consumed as a rich and cheaper source of white meat and proteins all over the world. Fish farming is the leading source of income generation throughout the world. The present research study was conducted with aims to investigate the ecto and endo parasitic fauna of S. plagiostomus (snow trout) in River Swat. A total of 96 fish samples were collected on monthly basis from July-2018 to February-2019, from upper, middle and lower reaches. Fish samples were collected with the help of cast net, hand net and fishing rods. Local fishermen and experts help were also sought out for fish collection. 61 out of 96 fishes were found infected by helminth parasites. The total prevalence and intensity of 63.54% and 2.90 was observed respectively during data analysis. Highest monthly prevalence of 83.33% was recorded during July and August, while lowest prevalence of 33.33% was noted during February. Five species of helminths parasites were detected from S. plagiostomus, of which two were trematodes (Rhabdochona shizothoracis and Rhabdochona species), one species of Monogenia (Diplozoon paraddoxum), one species of Cestodes (Nippotaenia species), and one species of Acanthocephalan (Neoechynorhynchus devdevi). Highest parasite wise prevalence, intensity and relative density of 21.87%, 4.09 and 0.895 was noted for R. schizothoracis while the lowest prevalence, intensity and relative density of 4.16%, 1.25 and 0.052 was noted for N. devdevi. Highest infection of 76.08% was observed in adults host while lowest, 40% infestation rate was observed in young fish samples. 73.68% prevalence was observed in female hosts while only 56.90% prevalence was observed in male individuals. Higher infection (83.33%) was noticed during summer season, while lowest infection (44.44%) was observed during winter season. Similarly 71.79% fishes were found infected that were collected from lower reaches of the River Swat than the fish samples collected from upper reaches (52%).

Resumo O peixe é consumido mundialmente por ser uma fonte rica e barata de carne branca e proteínas. A piscicultura é a principal fonte de geração de renda em todo o mundo. O presente estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de investigar a fauna ecto e endoparasitária de S. plagiostomus (truta da neve) no rio Swat. Foram coletadas mensalmente 96 amostras de peixes, no período de julho de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019, nos trechos alto, médio e baixo com auxílio de redes de arrasto, redes de mão e varas de pesca. Pescadores locais e especialistas também ajudaram na coleta de peixes. Dos 96 peixes encontrados, 61 estavam infectados por parasitas helmintos. A prevalência de 63,54% e a intensidade total de 2,90 foram observadas durante a análise dos dados. A maior prevalência mensal de 83,33% foi registrada nos meses de julho e agosto, enquanto a menor, de 33,33%, em fevereiro. Cinco espécies de parasitas helmintos foram detectadas de S. plagiostomus, dos quais dois eram trematódeos (espécies Rhabdochona shizothoracis e Rhabdochona), uma espécie de monogenia (Diplozoon paradoxum), uma espécie de cestóideos (espécie Nippotaenia) e uma espécie de acantocéfalo (Neoechynorhynchus devdevi). As maiores prevalências de parasitas (21,87%), intensidade (4,09) e densidade relativa (0,895) foram observadas em R. schizothoracis, enquanto as menores prevalências de parasitas (4,16%), intensidade (1,25) e densidade relativa (0,052), em N. devdevi. A infecção mais alta (76,08%) foi constatada em adultos hospedeiros, ao passo que a taxa de infestação mais baixa (40%) foi encontrada em amostras de peixes jovens. A prevalência de 73,68% foi verificada em hospedeiros do sexo feminino, enquanto a de 56,90%, em indivíduos do sexo masculino. Maior infecção (83,33%) foi observada durante a temporada de verão, e a menor infecção (44,44%), durante o inverno. Da mesma forma, 71,79% dos peixes encontrados infectados foram coletados no trecho baixo do rio Swat, enquanto 52%, no trecho alto.

Diversity of metazoan parasites in fish Triportheus angulatus and Triportheus auritus living in sympatry in the Brazilian Amazon / Diversidade de parasitos metazoários em peixes Triportheus angulatus e Triportheus auritus vivendo em simpatria na Amazônia brasileira

Abstract The aim of this study was to compare the diversity and community structure of metazoan parasites in sympatric populations of Triportheus angulatus and Triportheus auritus in the Jari River basin, in the eastern Brazilian Amazon. All the specimens of T. angulatus and T. auritus examined were infected by Anacanthorus furculus, Anacanthorus pithophallus, Digenea gen. sp., Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus, Rhabdochona acuminata, Contracaecum sp., Ergasilus sp. and Acarina gen. sp. These parasites displayed aggregated or random dispersion. The parasite community in T. angulatus and T. auritus presented a similarity of 78%. The diversity indice and richness of parasite species were greater in T. auritus and there were differences in levels of host parasite infection for some infracommunities. Phyllodistomum spatula occurred only in T. angulatus, while metacercariae of Clinostomum marginatum and Digenea gen. sp.2 occurred only in T. auritus. The species richness of the parasites was influenced by host size, as well as the abundance of some parasite infracommunities. This is the first report of these parasites for T. angulatus and T. auritus, except for P. (S.) inopinatus and Contracaecum sp. for T. angulatus.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a diversidade e comunidade de parasitos metazoários em populações simpátricas de Triportheus angulatus e Triportheus auritus da bacia do Rio Jari, na Amazônia oriental brasileira. Todos os espécimes de T. angulatus e T. auritus examinados estavam infectados por Anacanthorus furculus, Anacanthorus pithophallus, Digenea gen. sp., Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus, Rhabdochona acuminata, Contracaecum sp., Ergasilus sp. e Acarina gen. sp. Esses parasitos apresentaram dispersão agregada ou randômica. A comunidade de parasitos em T. angulatus e T. auritus apresentou uma similaridade de 78%. A diversidade e riqueza de espécies de parasitos foram maiores em T. auritus e houve diferenças nos níveis de infecção parasitária entre os hospedeiros para algumas infracomunidades. Phyllodistomum spatula ocorreu somente em T. angulatus, enquanto metacercárias de Clinostomum marginatum e Digenea gen. sp.2 ocorreram somente em T. auritus. A riqueza de espécies de parasitos foi influenciada pelo tamanho dos hospedeiros, bem como pela abundância de algumas infracomunidades de parasitos. Este é o primeiro relato desses parasitos para T. angulatus e T. auritus, exceto P. (S.) inopinatus e Contracaecum sp. para T. angulatus.

Situation of and phenotypic markers of susceptibility to helminth infection among sheep on farms in the Brazilian cerrado biome / Diagnóstico de situação e marcadores fenotípicos das parasitoses gastrintestinais em ovinos de fazendas localizadas no Distrito Federal: bioma cerrado brasileiro

Abstract This study aimed to determine the intensity, seasonality, and distribution by genera of, as well as to identify phenotypic markers of susceptibility to, gastrointestinal parasites among sheep on farms within the Brazilian savanna (cerrado) biome. We evaluated 1271 sheep, on seven farms, during the rainy season (in December 2017 and December 2018) and dry season (in July 2018 and July 2019). Parasitological evaluation was based on culture and EPG. We calculated hematocrit, as well as the body condition score and feces score. Of the sheep evaluated, 34.15% had moderate-to-severe parasitic infection. The factors of herds' phenotypic characterization about helminth infections were (p ≤ 0.05 for all): anemia (OR = 5.72); leanness (OR = 1.80); loose stools or diarrhea (OR = 1.54); breed other than Santa Inês (OR = 2.31); "weaned lamb" category (OR = 4.76); "lambing ewe" category (OR = 4.66); and dry season (OR = 2.37). Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum, and Cooperia accounted for 76.40%, 20.23%, 2.89%, and 0.47%, respectively, of the helminth genera identified, with their proportional distributions being comparable between the rainy and dry seasons. Changes in health management, with regard to helminth infection control, are urgently needed in order to combat the disease more effectively and sustainably.

Resumo A presente pesquisa objetivou determinar a intensidade, sazonalidade, predominância de gêneros e marcadores fenotípicos às parasitoses gastrointestinais em fazendas de criação de ovinos do Distrito Federal, no bioma cerrado brasileiro. Foram avaliados 1.271 ovinos oriundos de sete propriedades, durante os períodos chuvoso (dezembro de 2017 e dezembro de 2018) e seco (julho de 2018 e julho de 2019). Procedeu-se a avaliação parasitológica por coprocultura e OPG, dosagem de hematócrito, escore de condição corporal e de fezes. Dos indivíduos avaliados, 34,15% deles apresentaram infecção parasitária moderada a grave. Os fatores de caracterização fenotípica dos rebanhos quanto às infecções helmínticas (p ≤ 0,05), foram: anemia (OR = 5,72),magreza (OR = 1,80), fezes pastosas/diarreicas (OR = 1,54), raças distintas à raça Santa Inês (OR = 2,31), categorias de produção animal "jovens" (OR = 4,76) e "fêmeas paridas" (OR = 4,66), e período seco (OR = 2,37). Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum e Cooperia foram os gêneros de helmintos observados nas seguintes proporções: 76,40%, 20,23%, 2,89% e 0,47%, respectivamente, sem distinção em sua distribuição entre os períodos chuvoso e seco. Mudanças no manejo sanitário com relação às helmintoses são urgentemente necessárias, para um controle da doença de forma mais eficaz e sustentável.

PARASITIC HELMINTHS INFECTING Eucinostomus melanopterus AND Eugerres plumieri (PERCIFORMES: GERREIDAE), FROM BOCA DEL RIO, VERACRUZ, MÉXICO / Helmintos parásitos de Eucinostomus melanopterus y Eugerres plumieri (Perciformes: Gerreidae), de Boca del Río, Veracruz, México

ABSTRACT A helminthological examination was carried out on 14 specimens of Eucinostomus melanopterus (flagfin mojarra) and 19 Eugerres plumieri (striped mojarra), of which a total of 461 helminths were collected. As a result, and 12 taxa were registered (five species, five genus and tow family), as follows: four monogeneans, five digeneans (four adults, one metacercaria), one cestode (larva) and tow nematodes (larvae). The highest prevalence was for Neodiplectanum mexicanum (29 %) infecting E. melanopterus and Aristocleidus hastatus (37 %) infecting E. plumieri. Both hosts shared 50 % of recorded species, and none of the identified helminthes represents a zoonotic risk.

RESUMEN Se efectuó un examen helmintológico a 14 especímenes de Eucinostomus melanopterus (mojarra bandera) y 19 Eugerres plumieri (mojarra rayada), de los cuales se recolectaron un total de 461 helmintos. Se identificaron 12 taxones (cinco a nivel de especie, cinco a género y dos a familia) como sigue: cuatro monogéneos, cinco digéneos (cuatro adultos, una metacercaria), un céstodo (plerocercoide) y dos nemátodos (larvas). La prevalencia más alta fue para Neodiplectanum mexicanum (29 %) en E. melanopterus y Aristocleidus hastatus (37 %) en E. plumieri. Ambos hospederos comparten el 50 % de los taxones de parásitos. Ninguno de los helmintos representa un riesgo zoonótico.

Impact of supplementation with different protein sources on the parasitological profile of ovine matrices and development of lambs / Impacto da suplementação com diferentes fontes protéicas no perfil parasitológico de matrizes ovinas e no desenvolvimento de cordeiros

The aim was to evaluate the impact of supplementation with different protein sources from agro-industrial production on the parasitological profile of ovine matrices and the development of their offspring. The protein sources used were: soybean bran, cotton pie, babassu pie, and coconut pie. A total of 60 ovine matrices were used, with confirmed pregnancy and supplemented in the final third of gestation at 0.5% of live weight in pastures of deferred Marandu grass. The evaluations occurred from the final third of gestation and in the lactation phase until weaning. The data collected in the matrices were: counting of eggs per gram of feces (EPG) and identification of infective larvae (Faecal test), evaluation of the degree of anemia by the FAMACHA© method, body weight (kg), and body condition score (BCS). In the lambs, the biometric measurements were taken from the 30 days of life until weaning. In Faecal test, the prevalence was 98% of Haemonchus spp. There was no effect of the protein sources for EPG (3476.0) and FAMACHA©. However, in the mats supplemented with coconut pie were observed the lowest body weights (36.9 kg) and lower BCS (2.7). Babassu, coconut and cotton cakes, and soybean meal used as a protein source in the supplementation of ovine matrices kept in deferred pastures of Marandu grass at the 0.5% level of live weight maintain the production indexes consistent with the physiology stage of the matrices even with a high endo-parasitic load.

O objetivo foi avaliar o impacto da suplementação com diferentes fontes proteicas da produção agroindustrial no perfil parasitológico das matrizes ovinas e no desenvolvimento de seus filhotes. As fontes de proteína utilizadas foram: farelo de soja, torta de algodão, torta de babaçu e torta de coco. Foram utilizadas 60 matrizes ovinas, com prenhez confirmada e suplementadas no terço final da gestação com 0,5% do peso vivo em pastagens de capim Marandu diferido. As avaliações ocorreram desde o terço final da gestação e na fase de lactação até o desmame. Os dados coletados nas matrizes foram: contagem de ovos por grama de fezes (OPG) e identificação de larvas infectantes (teste fecal), avaliação do grau de anemia pelo método FAMACHA ©, peso corporal (kg) e escore de condição corporal (ECC). Nos cordeiros, as medidas biométricas foram realizadas a partir dos 30 dias de vida até o desmame. No teste fecal, a prevalência foi de 98% de Haemonchus spp. Não houve efeito das fontes de proteína para OPG (3476,0) e FAMACHA ©. No entanto, nas matrizes suplementadas com torta de coco foram observados os menores pesos corporais (36,9 kg) e menorECC (2,7). Torta de Babaçu, coco, algodão e farelo de soja utilizados como fonte protéica na suplementação de matrizes ovinas mantidas em pastos diferidos de capim Marandu no nível de 0,5% de peso vivo mantêm os índices de produção consistentes com o estágio fisiológico das matrizes, mesmo com uma carga endo-parasitária alta.

Gastrointestinal parasites of a population of emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) in Brazil / Parasitas gastrointestinais de emus Dromaius novaehollandiae de cativeiro no Brasil

Abstract Emus are large flightless birds in the ratite group and are native to Australia. Since the mid-1980s, there has been increased interest in the captive breeding of emus for the production of leather, meat and oil. The aim of this study was to identify gastrointestinal parasites in the feces of emus Dromaius novaehollandiae from a South American scientific breeding. Fecal samples collected from 13 birds were examined by direct smears, both with and without centrifugation, as well as by the fecal flotation technique using Sheather's sugar solution. Trophozoites, cysts and oocysts of protozoa and nematode eggs were morphologically and morphometrically evaluated. Molecular analysis using PCR assays with specific primers for the genera Entamoeba, Giardia and Cryptosporidium were performed. Trophozoites and cysts of Entamoeba spp. and Giardia spp., oocysts of Eimeria spp. and Isospora dromaii, as well as eggs belonging to the Ascaridida order were found in the feces. Three animals were diagnosed with Giardia spp., and three were positive for Entamoeba spp. based on PCR techniques. After analyzing the data, we concluded that emus were infected enzootically by nematode and protozoan species.

Resumo Emus são aves grandes que não voam pertencentes ao grupo das ratitas e são originários da Austrália. Desde meados da década de 1980, aumentou o interesse pela criação de emus em cativeiro para a produção de couro, carne e óleo. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar parasitas gastrointestinais nas fezes de emus Dromaius novaehollandiae de um criatório científico da América do Sul. Amostras de fezes coletadas de 13 aves foram examinadas por esfregaços diretos, tanto com e sem centrifugação, quanto com a técnica de flutuação fecal utilizando solução de açúcar de Sheather. Trofozoítos, cistos e oocistos de protozoários e ovos de nematóides foram avaliados morfologicamente e morfometricamente. Foram realizadas análises moleculares utilizando ensaios de PCR com primers específicos para os gêneros Entamoeba, Giardia e Cryptosporidium. Trofozoítos e cistos de Entamoeba spp. e Giardia spp., oocistos de Eimeria spp. e Isospora dromaii, bem como ovos pertencentes à ordem Ascaridida foram encontrados nas fezes. Três animais foram diagnosticados com Giardia spp., e três foram positivos para Entamoeba spp. com base em técnicas de PCR. Depois de analisar os dados, concluímos que os emus estavam infectados enzooticamente por espécies de nematóides e protozoários.

Boarding School: A Simple Approach To Reduce Soil Transmitted Helminth Infections In Orang Asli Children Of Sungai Siput, Perak, 2017

@#Soil transmitted helminth (STH) infection is a major public health concern among the indigenous children of Malaysia. Precarious living conditions at home including unavailability of water, drinking of contaminated water, poor sanitation and livestock presence, are known risk factors for the infection. In order to provide better living conditions, these children are enrolled in boarding schools. This study was conducted to determine whether boarding schools is a solution in reducing soil transmitted helminth infection among Orang Asli children in Sg Siput, Perak, Malaysia. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 204 schoolchildren aged 7-17 years from three boarding schools in Sungai Siput, Perak from January to March 2017. Stool samples were collected and examined using direct smear and Kato-Katz technique. Information on sociodemographic and environmental conditions were collected using a modified Demographic Health Survey (DHS) questionnaire. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics Processor 20.0.Out of a total of 204 children, only 48% (n= 97) were infected with at least one type of STH species which showed a reduced prevalence as compared to previous studies conducted among home dwelling schoolchildren with overall prevalence of 78-97%. Majority of the children had monoparasitism (31%; n=63) with moderate intensity by T trichuira (n=51, 25%). Univariate analysis shows that unavailability of water at home has a statistically significant association with STH infection among boarding school children (OR=0.73; 95% CI= 0.56-0.95 p=0.021). Multivariate analysis proves children who had unavailability of water at home has 2.1 times more likelihood of getting an STH infection (OR= 2.08; 95%CI= 1.07-4.07; p= 0.032).This study demonstrates a reduced STH prevalence among Orang Asli boarding school children as better living condition there limits the spread of STH infection among them.

Report of rare case of intense parasitism by 34 specimens of Dioctophyme renale in a dog / Relato de caso raro de parasitismo intenso por 34 exemplares de Dioctophyme renale em um cão

Abstract Dioctophymosis is caused by Dioctophyme renale, a nematode that usually affects the right kidney of carnivores. The aim of this study was to report on a case of a dog with progressive weight loss and swollen abdomen that was diagnosed as presenting dioctophymosis. The patient underwent surgical treatment through which 34 nematodes were found, of which 18 were female and 16 were male, with a maximum length of 74 centimeters. The parasites were free in the abdominal cavity and inside the right kidney, and had caused peritonitis, free fluid, severe adherences between the abdominal organs and renal perforation. Parasitic diseases with a high number of specimens of this species are uncommon in dogs. The disease progresses with an inflammatory reaction and consequent formation of adherences and granulomatous tissue. This surrounds the eggs that were eliminated in the abdominal cavity by the free parasites. This disease occurs frequently in the city of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, where the patient of this report was living. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the case with the largest number of specimens of D. renale removed from a single dog in vivo.

Resumo A dioctofimose é causada por Dioctophyme renale, um nematódeo que geralmente afeta o rim direito de carnívoros. Este trabalho objetivou relatar o caso de um cão, com perda de peso progressiva e abaulamento abdominal, diagnosticado com dioctofimose. O paciente foi submetido a tratamento cirúrgico, o que permitiu o achado de 34 nematódeos, sendo 18 fêmeas e 16 machos, com tamanho máximo de 74 centímetros. Os parasitos encontravam-se livres na cavidade abdominal e no interior do rim direito, causando peritonite, formação de líquido livre, intensas aderências entre os órgãos abdominais e uma perfuração renal. Parasitoses com alto número de exemplares dessa espécie são incomuns em cães. Cursam com reação inflamatória, com consequente formação de aderências e tecido granulomatoso, envolvendo os ovos eliminados na cavidade abdominal pelos parasitos livres. A doença é frequente na cidade de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, área de origem da paciente afetada. De acordo com a pesquisa realizada, acredita-se que esse é o caso com o maior número de exemplares de D. renale removidos de um cão in vivo.

Advances in research on aquaporins in medical helminthes / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Aquaporins (AQPs) are a class of membrane intrinsic proteins in medical helminthes that specifically mediate the transmembrane transport of water or other solute molecules. Previous studies have demonstrated that AQPs play a critical role in promoting the transmembrane transport of water, osmoregulation, uptake of nutrients, release of toxic metabolic products and transport of antiparasitic drugs, which may serve as promising vaccine candidates and drug targets for parasitic diseases. This review describes the structural characteristics of AQPs in medical helminthes, and discusses the feasibility of these AQPs as antihelminth vaccine candidates and drug targets, so as to provide insights into the development of novel vaccines and drugs against parasitic diseases.

Variation in the prevalence and abundance of acanthocephalans in brown-nosed coatis Nasua nasua and crab-eating foxes Cerdocyon thous in the Brazilian Pantanal / Variação na prevalência e na abundância do parasitismo de acantócefalos em dois carnívoros silvestres do Pantanal brasileiro

Abstract Host infection by parasites is influenced by an array of factors, including host and environmental features. We investigated the relationship between host sex, body size and age, as well as seasonality on infection patterns by acanthocephalan in coatis (Procyonidae: Nasua nasua) and in crab-eating foxes (Canidae: Cerdocyon thous ) from the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands. Between 2006 and 2009, we collected faecal samples from these hosts and analyzed for the presence of acanthocephalan eggs. Prevalence, abundance and intensity of eggs of acanthocephalans were calculated. Egg abundance was analyzed using generalized linear models (GLM) with a negative binomial distribution and models were compared by Akaike criteria to verify the effect of biotic and abiotic factors. Prevalence of acanthocephalans was higher in the wet season in both host species but did not differ between host sexes; however, adult crab-eating foxes showed higher prevalence of acanthocephalan eggs than juveniles. In contrast, prevalence of acanthocephalan eggs found in coatis was higher in coati juveniles than in adults. Host age, season and maximum temperature were the top predictors of abundance of acanthocephalan eggs in crab-eating foxes whereas season and host sex were predictors of egg abundance in coatis. The importance of seasonality for abundance of acanthocephalan was clear for both host species. The influence of host-related attributes, however, varied by host species, with host gender and host age being important factors associated with prevalence and parasite loads.

Resumo A infecção de hospedeiro por parasitos é influenciada por uma série de fatores, incluindo características do hospedeiro e ambientais. Nós investigamos a relação entre sexo do hospedeiro, tamanho corporal e idade, bem como sazonalidade nos padrões de infecção por acantocéfalos em coatis (Procyonidae: Nasua nasua) e em cachorro-do-mato (Canidae: Cerdocyon thous ) do Pantanal brasileiro e quais fatores explicaram melhor a prevalência e a intensidade desses parasitos. Entre 2006 e 2009, coletamos amostras fecais desses hospedeiros e analisamos a presença de ovos de acantocéfalos. Prevalência, abundância e intensidade de ovos de acantócefálios foram calculados. A abundância de ovos foi analisada utilizando modelos lineares generalizados (GLM) com distribuição binomial negativa e os modelos foram comparados pelo critério de Akaike para verificar o efeito de fatores bióticos e abióticos. A prevalência de acantocéfalos foi maior na estação úmida em ambas as espécies de hospedeiros, mas não diferiu entre os sexos do hospedeiro; no entanto, os cachorros-do-mato adultos apresentaram maior prevalência de ovos de acantocéfalos do que em juvenis. Em contraste, a prevalência de ovos de acantocéfalos encontrados em coatis foi maior em juvenis do que em adultos. A idade do hospedeiro, a estação e a temperatura máxima foram os preditores de abundância de ovos de acantocéfalos em cachorro-do-mato, enquanto a estação e o sexo do hospedeiro foram preditores da abundância dos ovos do parasito em coatis. A importância da sazonalidade para a abundância do acantocéfalo foi clara para ambas as espécies hospedeiras. A influência dos atributos relacionados ao hospedeiro, no entanto, variou entre as espécies de hospedeiros, sendo o sexo e idade do hospedeiro fatores importantes associados à prevalência e às cargas parasitárias.

First record of Unibarra paranoplatensis Suriano & Incorvaia, 1995 (Dactylogyridae: Monogenea) on Sorubim lima (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae) from Brazil / Primeiro registro de Unibarra paranoplatensis Suriano & Incorvaia, 1995 (Dactylogyridae: Monogenea) em Sorubim lima (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae) do Brasil

Abstract The aim of this study was to report the first occurrence of Unibarra paranoplatensis Suriano & Incorvaia, 1995 on Sorubim lima Bloch & Schneider, 1801 from Brazil. On the gills of S. lima, U. paranoplatensis presented similar morphological and morphometric features to those described for conspecifics infesting Zungaro zungaro Humboldt, 1921 except the length, which was higher in the present study, as well as ventral bar shape that was V-shaped open, and with the upper and lower end of the rod relatively sinuous. This study expands the geographic distribution of U. paranoplatensis to Brazil, a parasite that has a wide occurrence across South America.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar a primeira ocorrência de Unibarra paranoplatensis Suriano & Incorvaia, 1995 em Sorubim lima Bloch & Schneider, 180 do Brasil. Nas brânquias de S. lima do Rio Acre, estado do Acre (Brasil), U. paranoplatensis apresentou características morfológicas e morfométricas similares àquelas descritas para Zungaro zungaro Humboldt, 1921; com exceção do comprimento que foi maior no presente estudo e formato da barra ventral que foi em forma de V aberto, com a extremidade superior e inferior da barra relativamente sinuosa. Este estudo amplia a distribuição geográfica de U. paranoplatensis para o Brasil, um parasito com distribuição na América do Sul.

A Review: DNA Methylation of the GATA-3 Gene to Balance T Cells Population During Helminth Infection

Abstract@#Helminth infection has been a severe health issue mostly in the developing countries, where sanitation is not well maintained. The immune mechanism during helminth infection is well understood. The Th2 response is the primary weapon from the immune system to fight against helminth infection. The level of Th2 cells and cytokines are elevated during helminth infection. However, a prolonged Th2 response can cause liver fibrosis and reduce host survival. In the process of T cells differentiation, GATA-3 has a crucial role. It defines the population of Th1 and Th2. The expression of GATA-3 can be regulated through DNA methylation in the CGI sites of the gene. Hence, GATA-3 is able to co-express Th1 and Th2 in one cell, which would give less inflammation effect. This review aims to summarize research about the impact of DNA methylation of the GATA-3 genes to balance T cells population during helminth infection.

Epidemiological Survey on Schistosomiasis and Intestinal Helminthiasis among Village Residents of the Rural River Basin Area in White Nile State, Sudan

There have been some reports on schistosomiasis of school children in Sudan’s Nile River basin area; however, information about the infection status of Schistosoma species and intestinal helminths among village residents of this area is very limited. Urine and stool samples were collected from the 1,138 residents of the Al Hidaib and Khour Ajwal villages of White Nile State, Sudan in 2014. The prevalence of overall schistosomiasis and intestinal helminthiasis was 36.3% and 7.7%, respectively. Egg positive rates were 35.6% for Schistosoma haematobium, 2.6% for S. mansoni, and 1.4% were mixed. The prevalence of schistosomiasis was significantly higher in men (45.6%) than in women (32.0%), in Khou Ajwal villagers (39.4%) than in Al Hidaib villagers (19.2%), and for age groups ≤15 years old (51.5%) than for age groups >15 years old (13.2%). The average number of eggs per 10 ml urine (EP10) of S. haematobium infections was 18.9, with 22.2 eggs in men vs 17.0 in women and 20.4 in Khou Ajwal villagers vs 8.1 in Al Hidaib villagers. In addition to S. mansoni eggs, 4 different species of intestinal helminths were found in the stool, including Hymenolepis nana (6.6%) and H. diminuta (1.0%). Collectively, urinary schistosomiasis is still prevalent among village residents in Sudan’s White Nile River basin and was especially high in men, children ≤15 years, and in the village without a clean water system. H. nana was the most frequently detected intestinal helminths in the 2 villages.