Persistence and underreporting of schistosomiasis mansoni in a municipality in Minas Gerais' Zona da Mata / Persistência e subnotificação da esquistossomose mansônica em município da Zona da Mata de Minas Gerais / Persistencia y subregistro de esquistosomiasis mansoni en un municipio de la Zona da Mata de Minas Gerais

Background and Objectives: Schistosomiasis mansoni is a neglected chronic disease caused by Schistosoma mansoni, which is endemic in Brazil. It presents systemic involvement and its clinical manifestations range from dermatitis to severe clinical syndromes, including neurological and/or hepatic manifestations, such as liver cirrhosis. Although the incidence has decreased in the last decade, it is estimated that underreporting occurs. This study aimed to verify the existence of underreporting and the persistence of the endemic character of schistosomiasis in a municipality in rural Minas Gerais (MG) in 2016. Method: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study based on secondary data related to positive results of parasitological and serological tests for schistosomiasis in residents of the municipality from seven of its eight clinical analysis laboratories. Results: In total, 29,266 tests were evaluated by all techniques, of which 80 were positive and 50 confirmed, corresponding to an estimated 0.17% prevalence (95%CI0.13-0.23%). In 2016, 31 cases of schistosomiasis were also reported in SINAN-MG. Conclusion: Schistosomiasis in Ponte Nova, MG, persists as epidemiological pattern of endemicity and underreported surveillance operational situation. We highlight the importance of strengthening monitoring and control actions for the disease, including of endemic areas for the vector and early treatment of patients with positive PSE.(AU)

Justificativa e Objetivos: A esquistossomose mansônica é uma doença crônica negligenciada cuja causa é o Schistosoma mansoni, sendo endêmica no Brasil. Apresenta acometimento sistêmico e tem como manifestações clínicas desde dermatites até síndromes clínicas graves com manifestações neurológicas e/ou hepáticas, como cirrose hepática. Apesar de a incidência haver diminuído na última década, estima-se que haja subnotificação no país. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo verificar a existência de subnotificação e a persistência do caráter endêmico da esquistossomose em um município no interior estado de Minas Gerais (MG) em 2016. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo transversal descritivo com base em dados secundários relativos a resultados positivos de exames parasitológicos e sorológicos para esquistossomose em residentes do município em sete dos oito laboratórios de análises clínicas existentes. Resultados: Dos 29.266 exames avaliados por todas as técnicas, 80 foram positivos, dos quais 50 casos foram confirmados, com prevalência estimada em 0,17% (IC95% 0,13-0,23%). Nesse ano, foram notificados também 31 casos de esquistossomose no SINAN-MG. Conclusão: A esquistossomose em Ponte Nova, MG, persiste com padrão epidemiológico de endemicidade e situação operacional de vigilância de subnotificação. Ressalta-se a importância de fortalecer ações de vigilância e de controle para a doença, incluindo a monitorização das áreas endêmicas para o vetor e o tratamento precoce dos pacientes com PSE positivo.(AU)

Antecedentes y objetivos: La esquistosomiasis mansoni es una enfermedad crónica desatendida causada por Schistosoma mansoni y endémica en Brasil. Tiene afectación sistémica y tiene manifestaciones clínicas que van desde dermatitis hasta síndromes clínicos graves con manifestaciones neurológicas y / o hepáticas, como la cirrosis hepática. Aunque la incidencia ha disminuido en la última década, se estima que hay subregistro en el país. Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo verificar la existencia de subregistro y la persistencia del carácter endémico de la esquistosomiasis en un municipio del interior de Minas Gerais (MG) en 2016. Métodos: Se trata de un estudio descriptivo transversal a partir de datos secundarios de residentes del municipio sobre resultados. positivo en las pruebas parasitológicas y serológicas para la esquistosomiasis en siete de los ocho laboratorios de análisis clínicos existentes. Resultados: De las 29.266 pruebas evaluadas por todas las técnicas, 80 fueron positivas, de las cuales se confirmaron 50 casos, con una prevalencia estimada de 0,17% (IC 95% 0,13-0,23%). En el mismo año se notificaron 31 casos de esquistosomiasis en SINANMG. Conclusión: La esquistosomiasis en Ponte Nova, (MG) persiste con un patrón epidemiológico de endemicidad y una situación operativa de vigilancia subregistrada. Se enfatiza la importancia de fortalecer las acciones de vigilancia de la enfermedad, así como las acciones de control, incluyendo el monitoreo de áreas endémicas para el vector y el tratamiento temprano de pacientes con EPF positiva.(AU)

Geographic Information System-based association between the sewage network, geographical location of intermediate hosts, and autochthonous cases for the estimation of risk areas of schistosomiasis infection in Ourinhos, São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Ourinhos is a municipality located between the Pardo and Paranapanema rivers, and it has been characterized by the endemic transmission of schistosomiasis since 1952. We used geospatial analysis to identify areas prone to human schistosomiasis infections in Ourinhos. We studied the association between the sewage network, co-occurrence of Biomphalaria snails (identified as intermediate hosts [IHs] of Schistosoma mansoni), and autochthonous cases. METHODS: Gi spatial statistics, Ripley's K12-function, and kernel density estimation were used to evaluate the association between schistosomiasis data reported during 2007-2016 and the occurrence of IHs during 2015-2017. These data were superimposed on the municipality sewage network data. RESULTS: We used 20 points with reported IH; they were colonized predominantly by Biomphalaria glabrata, followed by B. tenagophila and B. straminea. Based on Gi statistics, a significant cluster of autochthonous cases was superimposed on the Christoni and Água da Veada water bodies, with distances of approximately 300 m and 2200 m from the points where B. glabrata and B. straminea were present, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The residence geographical location of autochthonous cases allied with the spatial analysis of IHs and the coverage of the sewage network provide important information for the detection of human-infection areas. Our results demonstrated that the tools used for direct surveillance, control, and elimination of schistosomiasis are appropriate.

Aspectos relacionados com a positividade para a esquistossomose: estudo transversal em área de baixa prevalência em Alagoas, 2020 / Aspectos relacionados con la positividad para la esquistosomiasis: un estudio transversal en un área de baja prevalencia en Alagoas, Brasil, 2020 / Aspects related to positivity for schistosomiasis: a cross-sectional study in a low prevalence area in Alagoas, Brazil, 2020

Objetivo: Analisar aspectos relacionados com a positividade para esquistossomose em área de baixa prevalência, no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado no primeiro semestre de 2020, quando foram analisadas a proporção de positividade, em função do número de lâminas de Kato-Katz, o desempenho diagnóstico do teste e a estimação da positividade a partir dos dados do Sistema de Informação do Programa de Vigilância e Controle da Esquistossomose (SISPCE). Resultados: Foram analisadas 2.088 lâminas de 348 indivíduos, sendo a proporção de positividade de 11,8%, 26,7% e 31,0% para 1, 4 e 6 lâminas analisadas, respectivamente. Houve concordância excelente (índice Kappa = 0,91) na comparação entre as leituras de 4 e 6 lâminas. Foi estimada subnotificação de 2,1 vezes nos dados do SISPCE. Conclusão: Ampliar o número de lâminas aumentou a positividade do Kato-Katz, o que pode contribuir para maximizar o controle da doença enquanto problema de Saúde Pública.

Objetivo: Analizar aspectos relacionados con la positividad para esquistosomiasis en área de baja prevalencia en Brasil. Métodos: Estudio transversal, realizado en el primer semestre de 2020, donde se analizó la proporción de positividad según el número de portaobjetos de Kato-Katz, el rendimiento diagnóstico de la prueba y la creación de un factor de estimación de positividad a partir de los datos del Sistema de Información del Programa de Vigilancia y Control de la Esquistosomiasis (SISPCE). Resultados: Se analizaron 2.088 láminas de 348 individuos, con proporción de positividad del 11,8%, 26,7% y 31,0% para 1, 4 y 6 láminas analizadas, respectivamente. Hubo una excelente concordancia (Kappa = 0,91) en la comparación entre la lectura de 4 y 6 láminas. Se estimó un subregistro de 2,1 veces en los datos del SISPCE. Conclusión: Aumentar el número de muestras aumentó la positividad de Kato-Katz, lo que puede contribuir a maximizar el control de la enfermedad como problema de Salud Pública.

Objective: To analyze aspects related to schistosomiasis positivity in an area of low prevalence in Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, carried out in the first half of 2020, where we analyzed the proportion of positivity, according to the number of Kato-Katz slides, the diagnostic performance of the test and positivity estimates based on data from the Schistosomiasis Surveillance and Control Program Information System (SISPCE). Results: 2,088 slides from 348 individuals were analyzed, with proportion of positivity of 11.8%, 26.7% and 31.0% for 1, 4 and 6 slides analyzed, respectively. There was excellent agreement (Kappa = 0.91) between the readings of 4 and 6 slides. The SISPCE data was estimated to be underreported by up to 2.1 times. Conclusion: Increasing the number of slides increased Kato-Katz positivity, which can contribute to maximizing the control of the disease as a Public Health problem.

In vivo effect of essential oil of Mentha x villosa and its active compound against Schistosoma mansoni (Sambon, 1907) / Efeito in vivo do óleo essencial de Mentha x villosa e seu composto ativo sobre Schistosoma mansoni (Sambon, 1907)

Abstract Schistosomiasis treatment is dependent on a single drug, praziquantel (PZQ). The development of resistance of PZQ has drawn the attention of many researchers to alternative drugs. One viable and promising treatment is the study of medicinal plants as a new approach to the experimental treatment for Schistosomiasis. The present work aimed to evaluate in vivo antischistosomal activity of effect of Mentha x villosa Oil Essential (Mv-EO) and rotundifolone (ROT) against Schistosoma mansoni. Thirty-day-old female Swiss webster mice (Mus musculus) weighing 50 grams were used. Mice were infected with 80 cercariae of S. mansoni (BH strain) and orally administered Mv-EO (50, 100 and 200 mg/Kg) and ROT (35.9, 70.9 and 141.9 mg/Kg) at 45-days post infection for 5 consecutive days. All mice were euthanized 60 days after infection. Praziquantel was the positive control in the experiment. Doses of 200 mg/kg (Mv-EO) and ROT (141.9 mg/Kg) resulted in a significant reduction in fluke burden (72.44% and 74.48%, respectively). There was also marked reduction in liver, intestinal and faecal and changed oogram pattern, compared to infected untreated mice. Considering the results obtained, further biological studies are required in order to elucidate the mechanism of schistosomicidal action on against adult S. mansoni.

Resumo O tratamento da esquistossomose é dependente de uma única droga, praziquantel (PZQ). O desenvolvimento da resistência de PZQ tem atraído atenção de muitos pesquisadores por medicamentos alternativos. Um tratamento viável e promissor é o estudo das plantas medicinais como uma nova abordagem para o tratamento experimental para esquistossomose. O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar a atividade esquistossomicida in vivo óleo essencial de Mentha x villosa (OE-Mv) e rotundifolona (ROT) contra Schistosoma mansoni. Foram utilizados camundongos Swiss webster (Mus musculus) fêmea de trinta dias de idade pesando 50 gramas. Os camundongos foram infectados com 80 cercárias de S. mansoni (cepa BH) e administrado por via oral OE-Mv (50, 100 e 200 mg/Kg) e ROT (35,9, 70,9 e 141,9 mg/Kg) apos 45 dias de infecção durante 5 dias consecutivos. Todos os animais foram eutanasiados 60 dias após a infecção. Praziquantel foi o controle positivo no experimento. O tratamento dos camundongos infectados com doses de 200 mg/kg (OE-Mv) e rotundifolona (141,9 mg/Kg) resultaram em redução significativa dos vermes (72.44% e 74.48%, respectivamente). Foi observado também redução no fígado, intestino e fecal e alteração no padrão do oograma, em comparação aos camundongos infectados e não tratados. Considerando os resultados obtidos, mais estudos biológicos são necessários a fim de elucidar o mecanismo de ação esquistossomicida contra adultos de S. mansoni.

Ocorrência de Biomphalaria straminea em corpos hídricos do município de Picos, Piauí: avaliação do risco de transmissão da esquistossomose mansoni / Occurrence of Biomphalaria straminea in water bodies in the municipality of Picos, Piauí: risk assessment of transmission of schistosomiasis mansoni

A esquistossomose é uma parasitose de veiculação hídrica causada por trematódeos do gênero Schistosoma, transmitida por caramujos planorbídeos do gênero Biomphalaria. O presente estudo teve por objetivo identificar e analisar os caramujos do gênero Biomphalaria encontrados em coleções hídricas do perímetro urbano de Picos quanto à infecção por S. mansoni. O inquérito foi realizado em sete coleções hídricas durante os meses de julho, agosto e setembro de 2019. Os caramujos coletados foram encaminhados ao laboratório e separados em número de até 10 indivíduos em frascos identificados. Para detectar a infecção por S. mansoni foram realizados os testes de exposição à luz, nested-PCR e SmMIT-LAMP. Foram coletados 1.214 espécimes de Biomphalaria straminea nas sete coleções hídricas, com a seguinte distribuição: São José, n = 667 (54,94%); Centro, n = 273 (22,49%); Canto da Várzea, n = 108 (n = 8,90%); Passagem das Pedras, n = 102 (8,40%); Malvas, n = 32 (2,64%); Ipueiras, n = 12 (0,98%) e Catavento, n = 20 (1,65%). Não foram encontrados caramujos infectados por S. mansoni pelas técnicas de exposição à luz e pela nested-PCR. Através da técnica de SmMIT-LAMP houve positividade em uma amostra de B. straminea analisada em conjunto, sendo possível caracterizar a Estação São José como um foco potencial de transmissão da esquistossomose mansoni. Em relação à abundância de moluscos vetores entre os meses de coletas, o mês de setembro foi o que se destacou pelo número de exemplares coletados, com 449 indivíduos (40%). Pela técnica de exposição à luz foi possível identificar quatro tipos cercarianos diferentes: dois tipos de distoma brevifurcada faringeada, um tipo de distoma longifurcada faringeada e um de distoma brevifurcada afaringeada. Demonstramos que a combinação entre o Teste de Eliminação Clássica e métodos moleculares fornecem informações mais fidedignas acerca da positividade por S. mansoni em caramujos Biomphalaria, contribuindo assim para a detecção de focos de transmissão de esquistossomose.

Schistosomiasis is a waterborne parasitic disease caused by trematodes of the genus Schistosoma, transmitted by planorbid snails of the genus Biomphalaria. The present study aimed to identify and analyze Biomphalaria snails found in water collections in the urban area of Picos, state of Piauí, for infection by S. mansoni. The survey was carried out in seven collecting sites from July to September 2019. The collected snails were sent to the laboratory and separated in a number of up to 10 individuals in identified jars. To detect S. mansoni infection, light exposure, nested-PCR and SmMIT-LAMP tests were performed. In all 1,214 specimens of Biomphalaria straminea were collected as the following: São José, n = 667 (54.94%); Centro, n = 273 (22.49%); Canto da Várzea, n = 108 (n = 8.90%); Passagem das Pedras, n = 102 (8.40%); Malvas, n = 32 (2.64%); Ipueiras, n = 12 (0.98%) and Catavento, n = 20 (1.65%). No snails infected by S. mansoni were found by light exposure and nested-PCR techniques. However, SmMIT-LAMP detected positivity in a sample of B. straminea specimens, making it possible to characterize the São José colleting site as a potential focus of schistosomiasis mansoni transmission. In relation to the abundance of vector mollusks between the months of collection, September was the one that stood out for the number of samples collected, with 449 individuals (40%). The light exposure technique, made possible to identify four different cercarian types: two types of distoma pharyngeal brevifurcated, one type of distoma pharyngeal longifurcated and one of distoma pharyngeal brevifurcated. We highlight that the combination of Classical Elimination Test and molecular methods provide more reliable information about positivity for S. mansoni in Biomphalaria snails, contributing to the characterization of the foci of schistosomiasis transmission.

Schistosoma mansoni granulomas in the skeletal striated muscles in the murine model of neuroschistosomiasis: histological findings

Schistosomiasis mansoni presents many clinical manifestations during migration of schistosomes in their hosts, including diarrhea, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, liver abscesses, skinlesions, brain tumors and myeloradiculopathy. No lesions have been reported in skeletal striated muscles due to schistosomiasis mansoni in the literature. This short communication reports the histopathological findings on skeletal musculature in a murine model of neuroeschistosomiasis mansoni. Lesions were found in the tongue, masseter muscle, buccinator muscle, digastric muscle and temporalis muscle. Worm recovery was carried out to confirm the infection. We describe here, for the first time in the literature, injuries in the skeletal musculature due to Schistosoma mansoni nfection.

New epidemiological profile of schistosomiasis from an area of low prevalence in Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Schistosomiasis, caused by infection from Schistosoma mansoni, is a disease that represents an important public health problem for Brazil, especially for states in the Northeast region. Thus, the aim of this study is to present a new epidemiological profile for the disease in a municipality with low prevalence in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted through a coproparasitological and malacological survey. A structured questionnaire was applied to the study participants to survey possible risk factors and a spatial analysis (kernel density) was used to measure the risk of infection. RESULTS: Of the 347 participants, 106 (30.5%) were infected by Schistosoma mansoni, most of them from the urban area of the municipality (68.9%; 73/106). A 3-fold risk of infection was found for individuals living in the urban area and a risk of 2.15 times for self-declared farmers. Biomphalaria glabrata and B. straminea were the species found in the municipality, but no animals were diagnosed as infected by the parasite. Spatial analysis showed a random distribution of vectors and human cases of the disease, and the formation of two clusters of human cases in the urban area was seen. CONCLUSIONS: A new epidemiological profile for schistosomiasis from S. mansoni infection was presented in a municipality of low endemicity: a high proportion of positive individuals in the urban area; presence of snails without positive diagnosis for S. mansoni infection; random distribution of vectors and human cases; and absence of association between classical risk factors and human infection.

Interaction of Biomphalaria cells in primary cultures with Schistosoma mansoni sporocysts

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Biomphalaria snails may display varying levels of susceptibility to Schistosoma mansoni infection. We have been developing an in vitro model to study the interaction between the snail and the parasite, using tissue-derived cell cultures from Biomphalaria. METHODS: The digestive gland- and kidney-derived cells from primary cultures of resistant (B. tenagophila Taim) and susceptible (B. tenagophila HM and B. glabrata BH) strains of Biomphalaria were exposed to S. mansoni sporocysts. RESULTS: S. mansoni sporocysts were surrounded and encapsulated exclusively by cells derived from the digestive gland (DG) of B. tenagophila Taim. The process was followed by a marked decrease in the number of free sporocysts in the culture medium. The morphological characteristics of DG-derived cells in culture have been described. CONCLUSIONS: Cells derived from DG (but not SK) primary cultures of B. tenagophila Taim may participate in S. mansoni sporocyst control.

The use of the circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) urine cassette assay for the diagnosis and assessment of cure of Schistosoma mansoni infections in an endemic area of the Amazon region

Abstract INTRODUCTION Schistosomiasis is a poverty-related disease that affects people in 78 countries worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the point-of-care circulating cathodic antigen (POC-CCA) test performance using sensitive parasitological methods as a reference standard (RS) in individuals before and after treatment. METHODS The RS was established by combining the results of 16 Kato-Katz slides and the Helmintex® method. Positivity rates of the POC-CCA test and Kato-Katz and Helmintex® methods were calculated before treatment and 30 days afterward. Furthermore, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and kappa coefficient before treatment were determined by comparing the methods. The cure rate was defined 30 days after treatment. RESULTS Among the 217 participants, the RS detected a total of 63 (29.0%) positive individuals. The POC-CCA test identified 79 (36.4%) infections. The evaluation of POC-CCA test performance in relation to the RS revealed a sensitivity of 61.9%, specificity of 74.0%, accuracy of 70.5%, and kappa coefficient of 0.33. Out of the 53 remaining participants after treatment, a total of 45 (81.1%) showed egg negative results, and 8 (18.9%) were egg positive according to the RS. A total of 5 (9.4%) egg-positive and 37 (69.8%) egg-negative individuals were positive by the POC-CCA test. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that the POC-CCA test has potential as an auxiliary tool for the diagnosis of Schistosoma mansoni infection, yielding better results than 16 Kato-Katz slides from three different stool samples. However, the immunochromatographic test lacks sufficient specificity and sensitivity for verifying the cure rate after treatment.

Deep sequencing of small RNAs reveals the repertoire of miRNAs and piRNAs in Biomphalaria glabrata

BACKGROUND Biomphalaria glabrata snails are widely distributed in schistosomiasis endemic areas like America and Caribe, displaying high susceptibility to infection by Schistosoma mansoni. After the availability of B. glabrata genome and transcriptome data, studies focusing on genetic markers and small non-coding RNAs have become more relevant. The small RNAs have been considered important through their ability to finely regulate the gene expression in several organisms, thus controlling the functions like cell growth, metabolism, and susceptibility/resistance to infection. OBJECTIVE The present study aims on identification and characterisation of the repertoire of small non-coding RNAs in B. glabrata (Bgl-small RNAs). METHODS By using small RNA sequencing, bioinformatics tools and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), we identified, characterised, and validated the presence of small RNAs in B. glabrata. FINDINGS 89 mature miRNAs were identified and five of them were classified as Mollusk-specific. When compared to model organisms, sequences of B. glabrata miRNAs showed a high degree of conservation. In addition, several target genes were predicted for all the mature miRNAs identified. Furthermore, piRNAs were identified in the genome of B. glabrata for the first time. The B. glabrata piRNAs showed strong conservation of uridine as first nucleotide at 5' end, besides adenine at 10th position. Our results showed that B. glabrata has diverse repertoire of circulating ncRNAs, several which might be involved in mollusk susceptibility to infection, due to their potential roles in the regulation of S. mansoni development. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Further studies are necessary in order to confirm the role of the Bgl-small RNAs in the parasite/host relationship thus opening new perspectives on interference of small RNAs in the organism development and susceptibility to infection.

Parasitological and histological aspects of Holochilus sciureus naturally infected by Schistosoma mansoni / Aspectos parasitológicos e histológicos de Holochilus sciureus naturalmente infectados por Schistosoma mansoni

Abstract Schistosomiasis is a neglected disease that affects millions of people around the world, being common in the state of Maranhão. A total of 225 rodents of the Holochilus sciureus species from the Western Lowland Maranhão were studied, of which 144 animals (64%) exhibited Schistosoma eggs in their feces samples. Macroscopic lesions characterized as well-defined whitish areas on the liver and spleen surfaces were observed. Histopathological examination revealed multifocal granulomas in the esophagus, liver, spleen, pancreas and duodenum, with structures compatible with Schistosoma mansoni eggs, as well as severe hepatic micro-vacuolar degeneration, multifocal and coalescent, with proliferation of random bile ducts and associated epithelial hyperplasia to areas of fibrosis. Adult forms of the parasite were observed in the blood vessels of the portal space. The lungs exhibited moderate and diffuse interstitial pneumonia with intralesional S. mansoni eggs. In the kidneys, hyaline cylinders were observed in the pelvis and diffuse hemorrhage. In conclusion, H. sciureus displays a pathological picture similar to human being. This rodent plays a role as sentinel in Baixada Maranhense.

Resumo A esquistossomose é uma doença negligenciada que afeta milhões de pessoas em todo o mundo, sendo comum no estado do Maranhão. Um total de 225 roedores da espécie Holochilus sciureus da Planície Ocidental do Maranhão foram estudados, dos quais 144 animais (64%) apresentaram ovos de Schistosoma em suas fezes. Lesões macroscópicas caracterizadas como áreas esbranquiçadas bem definidas nas superfícies do fígado e baço foram observadas. O exame histopatológico revelou granulomas multifocais no esôfago, fígado, baço, pâncreas e duodeno, com estruturas compatíveis com ovos de Schistosoma mansoni, degeneração micro-vacuolar hepática grave, multifocal e coalescente, com proliferação de ductos biliares aleatórios e hiperplasia epitelial associada a áreas de fibrose. Formas adultas do parasito foram observadas nos vasos sanguíneos do espaço portal. Os pulmões exibiram pneumonia intersticial moderada e difusa com ovos de S. mansoni intralesionais. Nos rins, foram observados cilindros hialinos na pelve e hemorragia difusa. Em conclusão, H. sciureus apresenta um quadro patológico semelhante ao ser humano. Este roedor desempenha um papel de sentinela na Baixada Maranhense.

Avaliação epidemiológica da esquistossomose no estado de Pernambuco pelo modelo de regressão beta / Epidemiological assessment of schistosomiasis in the state of Pernambuco through a beta regression model

Introdução: A esquistossomose é uma doença endêmica em 76 países e afeta cerca de 240 milhões de indivíduos, ocupando o segundo lugar entre as doenças infecto-parasitárias de maior prevalência do mundo. Objetivo: realizar uma avaliação epidemiológica da ocorrência de esquistossomose no Estado de Pernambuco, Brasil, no período de 2007 a 2015. Métodos: Estudo de caráter observacional analítico, com delineamento ecológico, no qual foram utilizadas fontes de dados secundárias. Resultados: Observou-se que ocorreu um decréscimo no percentual de casos positivos no Estado de Pernambuco, de 10,31% para 3,01%. Verificou-se, de vulneráveis à pobreza, percentual da população em domicílios com densidade > 2 e taxa de desocupação; assim como associação inversa entre taxa de esquistossomose e as variáveis: percentual da população em domicílios com coleta de lixo e taxa de envelhecimento. Conclusão: São necessárias ações que contemplem aspectos socioeconômicos, tais como medidas de saneamento básico, controle dos vetores, educação em saúde e medidas que melhorem de maneira geral a qualidade de vida e de renda da população.

Introduction: Schistosomiasis is an endemic disease in 76 countries and affects about 240 million individuals. It ranks second among the most prevalent infectious and parasitic diseases in the world. Objective: To perform an epidemiological assessment of Schistosomiasis in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil, from 2007 to 2015. Methods: This is an observational analytical study with an eco-design, in which secondary data sources were used. Results: It was observed a decrease in the percentage of positive cases in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil, from 10.31 to 3.01%. It was found a direct association between the rate of schistosomiasis and a percentage of people vulnerable to poverty, percentage of the population in households with density > 2, and unemployment rate. We also found an inverse association between schistosomiasis and the percentage of the population in households with garbage collection, and aging rate. Conclusion: There is a need for actions that contemplate socioeconomic aspects, such as sanitation, vector control, health education and measure to improve overall quality of life and income of the population.

Evaluation of 6-Gingerol and its modified analogues as therapeutic candidates against Schistosoma mansoni phosphofructokinase

The African most prevalent tropical disease after malaria is schistosomiasis and this disease in the developing countries is a massive socio-economic and public health burden. The disease also caused over 200,000 deaths. The development and design of new and novel antischistosomal drugs is now very important, as there are no vaccines currently and there is only one drug at the moment for the treatment of schistosomiasis. In this article, 6-gingerol was docked against the Schistosoma mansoni phosphofructokinase and the docking result was compared to those obtained from the docking of its modified analogues against the same enzyme. The chemical structure of 6-gingerol was obtained from the PubChem database while the modified analogues were designed using the ChemAxon software. The molecular docking procedure was carried out with the aid of the AutoDock Vina software while polar interactions which were eventually used in predicting the amino acid residues at the Schistosoma mansoni phosphofructokinase active site were visualized using the Pymol software. The Schistosoma mansoni phosphofructokinase 3D crystallized structure was modeled using the Swiss Model server. The molecular docking result showed that the modifications made on 6-gingerol had a positive effect on the binding energy of the compound to the enzyme active site as an appreciable increase was observed. 6-Gingerol and its modified analogues also violated none of the Lipinski's rule with suggests that the experimental compounds are drug-like. The C2H5 analogue of 6 gingerol was selected as the ideal therapeutic agent based on the pharmacokinetics study and the exhibited binding energy(AU)

La enfermedad tropical con más prevalencia en África después de la malaria es la esquistosomiasis; en los países en vías de desarrollo constituye una carga socio-económica y de salud pública enorme. La enfermedad ha ocasionado más de 200.000 muertes anuales. El desarrollo y diseño de nuevas y novedosas drogas antiesquistosomales es muy importante, ya que actualmente no existe vacuna disponible y solo hay una sola droga licenciada para su tratamiento. En esta investigación, el compuesto 6-gingerol se acopló a la enzima fosfofructoquinasa de Schistosoma mansoni y se comparó con los resultados obtenidos a partir de las interacciones de sus análogos modificados a la misma enzima. La estructura química del 6-gingerol se obtuvo de la base de datos PubChem, mientras que los análogos modificados se diseñaron utilizando el software ChemAxon. El procedimiento de acoplamiento molecular se llevó a cabo con la ayuda del software AutoDockVina, mientras las interacciones polares eventualmente utilizadas para predecir los residuos de aminoácidos en el sitio activo de la enzima fosfofructoquinasa de Schistosoma mansoni se visualizaron empleando el software Pymol. La estructura cristalizada tridimensional de la enzima fosfofructoquinasa de Schistosoma mansoni se modeló utilizando el programa Swiss Model. Se demostró que las modificaciones realizadas en el 6-gingerol tuvieron un efecto positivo en la energía de unión del compuesto al sitio activo de la enzima, tras observarse un aumento apreciable de dicha energía. El compuesto 6-Gingerol y sus análogos modificados tampoco violaron ninguna de las reglas de Lipinski, lo que sugiere que estos compuestos experimentales tienen propiedades similares a los medicamentos. El análogo C2H5 de 6-gingerol se seleccionó como el agente terapéutico ideal, basados en el estudio de farmacocinética y la energía de enlace demostrada(AU)

Prevalence of infection of biomphalaria glabrata by schistosoma mansoni and the risk of urban schistosomiasis mansoni in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Biomphalaria glabrata is considered to be responsible for the incidence of schistosomiasis in Brazil. Therefore, surveillance of areas where schistosomiasis is prevalent is fundamental for public health planning. This study was aimed to evaluate B. glabrata populations in water bodies of the city of Salvador, determine their distribution, estimate the prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infections, characterize shed cercariae, and identify transmission foci. METHODS: Malacological surveys were carried out in 17 water collections from Salvador. Snail species were identified based on shell and mantle characteristics. Snails were evaluated for S. mansoni infection by exposure to light and via real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using S. mansoni-18S rRNA subunit specific primers. RESULTS: 1,403 B. glabrata were collected. Classical cercarial shedding indicated that 5 snails (0.4%) were positive for S. mansoni. A higher prevalence of infections was found in Horta de Saramandaia (5.5%) and Lagoa do IAT (1.9%). Non-Schistosoma larvae, such as Xiphidiocercaria, Strigeidae, Spirorchiidae and Clinostomidae, were observed in 3.2% of the snails. S. mansoni DNA was detected in 6.2% snails via qPCR. CONCLUSIONS: B. glabrata is widely distributed in Salvador, as indicated by 7 water collections associated with a risk of schistosomiasis transmission. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify B. glabrata eliminating cercariae of Clinostomidae, Strigeidae, and Spirorchiidae in Salvador. We propose that qPCR may be employed in combination with classical cercarial shedding. Estimating S. mansoni prevalence in snails by only considering the results of light exposure method classical into account may underestimate the problem.

Schistosomiasis in the middle paranapanema river region, state of São Paulo, Brazil: does it matter today for public health?

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The Middle Paranapanema watershed is known for the transmission of schistosomiasis, and there have been autochthonous cases since 1952. This study aimed to describe this disease in space and time and evaluate its current importance as a public health problem. METHODS: Thematic maps showing the risk areas for transmission of schistosomiasis, using scan statistics, and flow maps were created in the period 1978-2016. Incidence was calculated, and the existence of spatial dependence between autochthonous and imported cases was evaluated using Ripley's K12-function. Species of snails were identified in high-risk clusters. RESULTS: A total of 1,511 autochthonous cases were reported in eight of the 25 municipalities in the study area, of which 92.8% occurred in Ourinhos. A total of 2,189 imported cases were reported (27% in Ourinhos and 20% in Assis), mainly originating in the states of Paraná and Minas Gerais. Clusters of autochthonous and imported cases with higher risk were identified in Ourinhos, Assis and Ipaussu. However, over the years, the cases began to occur in low density in Ourinhos and no longer in other municipalities in the region. The cluster detected in the period 2007-2016 in Ourinhos still has risk for the transmission of schistosomiasis. K12-function analysis indicated positive spatial dependence between autochthonous and imported cases. CONCLUSIONS: The study showed that, currently, schistosomiasis as a public health problem in Middle Paranapanema is restricted to Ourinhos. This fact may be related to the presence of Biomphalaria glabrata at a specific point and low coverage of basic sanitation.

Gestation and breastfeeding in schistosomotic mice differentially alters the expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) in adult offspring

BACKGROUND Breastfeeding or gestation in schistosomotic mothers can cause long-term alterations in the immune response of offspring. OBJECTIVES Evaluate the expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) (all classes), the production of cytokines by T and B lymphocytes and macrophages, and the frequency of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+-cells in adult offspring born and/or suckled by schistosomotic mothers. METHODS We harvested splenocytes from offspring born to (BIM), suckled by (SIM), or born to/suckled by (BSIM) schistosomotic mothers and animals from noninfected mothers (Control) at seven-weeks old and cultured them with/without Concanavalin A. HDAC expression was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and cytokines and membrane markers were evaluated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). FINDINGS Compared to Control, BIM mice showed increased expression of HDAC9 and frequency of CD4+IL-10+-cells. The SIM group had increased expression of HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC6, HDAC7, HDAC10, Sirt2, Sirt5, Sirt6, and Sirt7. The BSIM group only had increased HDAC10 expression. The SIM and BSIM groups exhibited decreased frequencies of CD4+IL-4+-cells and CD4+CD25+FoxP3+-cells, along with a higher frequency of CD14+IL-10+-cells and an increase in CD45R/B220+IL-10+-cells. The BSIM group also showed a high frequency of CD4+IL10+-cells. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Breastfeeding induced the expression of HDACs from various classes involved in reducing inflammatory responses. However, gestation enhanced the expression of a single HDAC and breastfeeding or gestation appears to favour multiple IL-10-dependent pathways, but not cells with a regulatory phenotype.

Schistosomiasis mansoni in the northeast region of brazil: temporal modeling of positivity, hospitalization,and mortality rates

Abstract INTRODUCTION We aimed to analyze trends in Schistosomiasis positivity, mortality, and hospitalization rates in Northeast Brazil. METHODS We conducted an ecological study using data from the Brazilian Schistosomiasis Control Program, and Hospital and Mortality Information Systems. A joinpoint regression model was used for temporal analysis. RESULTS The positivity(−4.7%;p<0.001) and hospitalization(−17.7%;p<0.001) rates declined globally, while the mortality remained stationary (−0.8%;p>0.05). However, the hospitalization in Alagoas(27.1%;p<0.001) and Pernambuco (35.1%;p<0.001), and the mortality in Bahia(2.9%;p<0.001) and Sergipe(4.1%;p<0.001), increased. CONCLUSIONS Schistosomiasis mansoni represents an important public health problem in Pernambuco, Alagoas, Sergipe, and Bahia.

Development of a natural molluscicide prototype kit (MoluSchall) for the control of schistosomiasis mansoni transmission

Abstract INTRODUCTION In Brazil, Biomphalaria glabrata, B. tenagophila, and B. straminea are intermediate hosts of Schistosoma mansoni, the etiological agent of schistosomiasis mansoni. Molluscicide use is recommended by the WHO for controlling the transmission of this parasite. Euphorbia milii latex has shown promising results as an alternative molluscicide. Thus, a natural molluscicide prototype kit based on freeze-dried E. milii latex was developed and evaluated against Biomphalaria spp. METHODS E. milii latex was collected, processed, and lyophilized. Two diluents were defined for freeze-dried latex rehydration, and a prototype kit, called MoluSchall, was produced. A stability test was conducted using prototype kits stored at different temperatures, and a toxicity assay was performed using Danio rerio. Additionally, MoluSchall was tested against B. glabrata under semi-natural conditions according to defined conditions in the laboratory. RESULTS MoluSchall was lethal to three Brazilian snail species while exhibiting low toxicity to D. rerio. Regardless of storage temperature, MoluSchall was stable for 24 months and was effective against B. glabrata under semi-natural conditions, with the same LD100 as observed under laboratory conditions. CONCLUSIONS MoluSchall is a natural, effective, and inexpensive molluscicide with lower environmental toxicity than existing molluscicides. Its production offers a possible alternative strategy for controlling S. mansoni transmission.

IgE antibodies from schistosomiasis patients to recognize epitopes in potato apyrase

Abstract INTRODUCTION: High percentages of structural identity and cross-immunoreactivity have been reported between potato apyrase and Schistosoma mansoni ATP diphosphohydrolase (SmATPDases) isoforms, showing the existence of particular epitopes shared between these proteins. METHODS: Potato apyrase was employed using ELISA, western blot, and mouse immunization methods to verify IgE reactivity. RESULTS: Most of the schistosomiasis patient's (75%) serum was seropositive for potato apyrase and this protein was recognized using western blotting, suggesting that parasite and plant proteins share IgE-binding epitopes. C57BL/6 mice immunized with potato apyrase showed increased IgE antibody production. CONCLUSIONS: Potato apyrase and SmATPDases have IgE-binding epitopes.

The cost of a disease targeted for elimination in Brazil: the case of schistosomiasis mansoni

BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis mansoni is a poverty-related parasitic infection that has a variety of clinical manifestations. We consider the disability and deaths caused by schistosomiasis unacceptable for a tool-ready disease. Its condition in Brazil warrants an analysis that will enable better understanding of the local health losses and contribute to the complex decision-making process. OBJECTIVE This study estimates the cost of schistosomiasis in Brazil in 2015. METHODS We conducted a cost of illness study of schistosomiasis mansoni in Brazil in 2015 based on a prevalence approach and from a societal perspective. The study included 26,499 schistosomiasis carriers, 397 hepatosplenic cases, 48 cases with the neurological form, 284 hospitalisations, and 11,368.26 years of life lost (YLL) of which 5,187 years are attributable to economically active age groups. RESULTS The total cost of schistosomiasis mansoni in Brazil was estimated to be US$ 41,7million in 2015 with 94.61% of this being indirect costs. CONCLUSIONS The economic burden of schistosomiasis mansoni in Brazil is high and results in the loss of productivity. Its persistence in Brazil is a challenge to public health and requires inter-sectorial interventions in areas such as indoor water supply, basic sanitation, and education.