Association Between Sexually Transmitted Infections and the Urine Culture.

Introduction: Bacterial urinary tract infections (UTI) and some sexually transmitted infections (STI) can have overlapping signs and symptoms or nonspecific findings, such as pyuria on urinalysis. Furthermore, results from the urine culture and the nucleic acid amplification test for an STI may not be available during the clinical encounter. We sought to determine whether gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are associated with bacteriuria, information that might aid in the differentiation of STIs and UTIs. Methods: We used multinomial logistic regression to analyze 9,650 encounters of female patients who were aged ≥18 years and who underwent testing for STIs. The ED encounters took place from April 18, 2014-March 7, 2017. We used a multivariable regression analysis to account for patient demographics, urinalysis findings, vaginal wet-mount results, and positive or negative (or no) findings from the urine culture and testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, or Trichomonas vaginalis. Results: In multivariable analysis, infection with T vaginalis, N gonorrhoeae, or C trachomatis was not associated with having a urine culture yielding 10,000 or more colony-forming units per mililiter (CFU/mL) of bacteria compared with a urine culture yielding less than 10,000 CFU/mL or no urine culture obtained. The diagnosis of a UTI in the ED was not associated with having a urine culture yielding 10,000 or more CFU/mL compared with a urine culture yielding less than 10,000 CFU/mL. Conclusion: After adjusting for covariates, no association was observed between urine culture results and testing positive for trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. Our results suggest that having a concurrent STI and bacterial UTI is unlikely.

Selection of a suitable reference gene for gene-expression studies in Trichomonas gallinae under various biotic and abiotic stress conditions.

Trichomonas gallinae, a globally distributed protozoan parasite, significantly affects the pigeon-breeding industry. T. gallinae infection mainly causes yellow ulcerative nodules on the upper respiratory tract and crop mucosa of pigeons, impeding normal breathing and feeding and ultimately causing death. Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) is a crucial technique for gene-expression analysis in molecular biology. Reference-gene selection for normalization is critical for ensuring this technique's accuracy. However, no systematic screening or validation of T. gallinae reference genes has been reported. This study quantified the transcript levels of ten candidate reference genes in T. gallinae isolates with different genotypes and culture conditions using qPCR. Using the geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper algorithms, we assessed these reference genes' stabilities and ranked them using RankAggreg analysis. The most stable reference gene was tubulin beta chain (TUBB), while the widely used reference genes TUBG and GAPDH demonstrated poor stability. Additionally, we evaluated these candidate reference genes' stabilities using the T. gallinae TgaAtg8 gene. On using TUBB as a reference gene, TgaAtg8's expression profiles in T. gallinae isolates with different genotypes remained relatively consistent under various culture conditions. Conversely, using ACTB as a reference gene distorted the data. These findings provide valuable reference-gene-selection guidance for functional gene research and gene-expression analysis in T. gallinae.

Exploring novel pyrazole-nitroimidazole hybrids: Synthesis and antiprotozoal activity against the human pathogen trichomonas vaginalis.

Trichomoniasis, a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis, has gained increased significance globally. Its relevance has grown in recent years due to its association with a heightened risk of acquiring and transmitting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other STIs. In addition, many publications have revealed a potential link between trichomoniasis and certain cancers. Metronidazole (MTZ), a nitroimidazole compound developed over 50 years ago, remains the first-choice drug for treatment. However, reports of genotoxicity and side effects underscore the necessity for new compounds to address this pressing global health concern. In this study, we synthesized ten pyrazole-nitroimidazoles 1(a-j) and 4-nitro-1-(hydroxyethyl)-1H-imidazole 2, an analog of metronidazole (MTZ), and assessed their trichomonacidal and cytotoxic effects. All compounds 1(a-j) and 2 exhibited IC50 values ≤ 20 µM and ≤ 41 µM, after 24 h and 48 h, respectively. Compounds 1d (IC50 5.3 µM), 1e (IC50 4.8 µM), and 1i (IC50 5.2 µM) exhibited potencies equivalent to MTZ (IC50 4.9 µM), the reference drug, after 24 h. Notably, compound 1i showed high anti-trichomonas activity after 24 h (IC50 5.2 µM) and 48 h (IC50 2.1 µM). Additionally, all compounds demonstrated either non-cytotoxic to HeLa cells (CC50 > 100 µM) or low cytotoxicity (CC50 between 69 and 100 µM). These findings suggest that pyrazole-nitroimidazole derivatives represent a promising heterocyclic system, serving as a potential lead for further optimization in trichomoniasis chemotherapy.

In vitro anti-Trichomonas gallinae effects of Ziziphus vulgaris L. and Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze extracts.

BACKGROUND: Trichomonas gallinae is a parasite that causes canker and severe loss and death, especially in young pigeons. Metronidazole (MTZ) is the recommended drug for treating avian trichomoniasis. Due to drug resistance, non-chemical alternatives, such as medicinal plant extracts, are also considered possible therapies for this disease. OBJECTIVES: This study compares the antitrichomonal effects of MTZ with extracts of Camellia sinensis and Ziziphus vulgaris on T. gallinae in vitro. METHODS: Samples of T. gallinae were taken from infected pigeons. Multi-well plates with different concentrations (5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 µg/mL) of plant extracts were used for the in vitro study. RESULTS: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of C. sinensis extract was 25 µg/mL over 24 h, compared to 50 µg/mL for MTZ. The MIC value of the Z. vulgaris extracts was 50 µg/mL. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that the extracts of Z. vulgaris and C. sinensis, as potential natural agents, could have anti-avian trichomoniasis properties. This study also shows that MTZ, C. sinensis and Z. vulgaris are equally effective in preventing the growth of T. gallinae trophozoites in the culture.

Effect of Phytochemical Compounds on Trichomonas tenax, an Oral Protozoan.

Trichomonas tenax is an oral protozoan with an estimated global pooled prevalence of 17% in the human population.1 Observational studies have demonstrated a significant statistical correlation between oral colonization by T. tenax and the progression of periodontal disease.2 Proposed pathogenic mechanisms for this protozoan include the production of tissue-damaging enzymes, induction of apoptosis in human cells, and dysbiosis of the oral microbiome.3 In patients for whom metronidazole (MTZ) is contraindicated, phytochemicals may offer a viable alternative for controlling T. tenax. Various plant extracts have shown promising in vitro activity against other trichomonads, such as T. vaginalis and Tritrichomonas foetus, as reviewed by Friedman et al.4.

Reducing Barriers for Expedited Partner Treatment in Adolescents and Young Adults: A Quality Improvement Initiative.

BACKGROUND: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) face significant barriers to screening, testing, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Expedited partner therapy (EPT) streamlines partner treatment of STIs, but use among adolescents is low. We aimed to increase EPT offering and provision at 2 adolescent medicine clinics (AMCs) and the emergency department (ED) in an urban children's hospital. We addressed barriers at provider, pharmacy, and patient levels. We compared EPT offering and provision for chlamydia ( Chlamydia trachomatis [CT]) and trichomonas ( Trichomonas vaginalis [TV]) infection at baseline and across 2 intervention cycles. METHODS: Baseline data were collected from July 2019 to March 2020 and our intervention time frame spanned from April 2020 to October 2021. Laboratory codes identified patients with CT or TV infections. Cycle 1 allowed providers to order EPT within a patient's chart. The second cycle targeted education and standardization for STI/EPT notification and counseling. During this cycle, notification of ED patients was centralized to the AMC nurses. RESULTS: A total of 747 CT and TV cases were identified. In the AMC, EPT offering increased from 77.3% to 87.7% ( P = 0.01). Expedited partner therapy provision increased from 32.3% to 69.9% ( P < 0.001). Expedited partner therapy offering for ED patients increased by 82.3%. Retesting rates remained consistent, with a significant drop in reinfection rates ( P = 0.003) within patients seen in the AMC. CONCLUSIONS: This quality improvement initiative successfully increased EPT offering and provision among the cases identified. Future cycles may include longer-term follow-up to confirm partner treatment and testing per guidelines.

Association Between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Trichomonas vaginalis Infection Among American Adults: NHANES 2013-2016.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have suggested that vitamin D may possess anti-infection properties, but the relationship between vitamin D and Trichomonas vaginalis infection remains unexplored. METHODS: Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2013 and 2016, we conducted multivariate regression analyses and subgroup analyses to investigate the association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels and T. vaginalis infection, ensuring the robustness of our results. RESULTS: The final sample included data from 4318 individuals aged 20 to 59 years, among which 92 were diagnosed with T. vaginalis infection. For every 10 nmol/L increase in serum 25(OH)D level, there was a 22% reduction in the likelihood of T. vaginalis infection incidence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69-0.90). Similarly, higher concentration tertiles demonstrated relatively lower infection ratios compared with the tertile with the lowest 25(OH)D concentration (aOR, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.30-0.95; P = 0.030] for T2; aOR, 0.23 [95% CI, 0.09-0.61; P < 0.001] for T3). CONCLUSIONS: Our cross-sectional study indicates a negative association between 25(OH)D levels and the prevalence of T. vaginalis infection. However, further high-quality evidence is needed to establish a causal relationship between 25(OH)D levels and T. vaginalis infection, as well as to evaluate the potential role of vitamin D supplementation in preventing T. vaginalis infection.

Stimulation of microvesicle secretion in Trichomonas vaginalis.

Trichomonas vaginalis is an extracellular flagellate protozoan and the etiological agent of human trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) with a high incidence. Several reports have shown that this protozoan releases microvesicles into the culture medium, which show high potential in modulating cell-to-cell communication and the host response to infections. However, the biogenesis of these vesicles has not been analyzed in detail. In the present study, high-resolution ion scanning microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to analyze the surface of control cells and cells incubated in the presence of Ca2+ alone or with A 23187 calcium ionophore. Two different strains of T. vaginalis were analyzed. Most control cells displayed relatively smooth surfaces, whereas cells incubated with Ca2+ had many surface projections of variable shape and size (from 40 nm to around 1 µm). Quantitative analyses were performed directly in the scanning electron microscope and showed a significant increase in the number of cells with surface projections after incubation in the presence of calcium. TEM showed that treated cells presented several cytoplasmic multivesicular structures, suggesting membrane fusion and exosomes in the extracellular medium. The amount and size of the released vesicles were quantitatively analyzed using light scattering and TEM on negatively stained samples. The observations show that incubation of both parasite strains in the presence of Ca2+ significantly increased the release of microvesicles into the extracellular medium in a time-dependent process. Sequential incubation in the presence of Ca2+ and the calcium ionophore A23187 increases the presence of vesicles on the parasite surface only at a short incubation time (5 min). Transmission electron microscopy showed that at least part of the vesicles are originated from cytoplasmic multivesicular structures. This information contributes to a better understanding of the biogenesis of extracellular vesicles secreted by T. vaginalis.

Surveillance for Selected Pathogens and Parasites of Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) from Western Oklahoma, USA, 2018-20.

The Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) has been undergoing a range-wide population decline. Potential causes for declines across its historic range have been investigated for decades and include habitat loss and fragmentation and a variety of parasitic and infectious diseases. Although there have been studies on bobwhite ecology in Oklahoma, USA, relatively little is known about parasites and pathogens in the region. We evaluated the health of free-ranging bobwhites from nine sites in western Oklahoma. From 2018 to 2020, 206 bobwhites were evaluated for gross and microscopic lesions and tested for selected pathogens. In general, bobwhites were in good nutritional condition with ample muscle mass and fat stores. No significant gross lesions were observed in any bobwhite and no significant histologic lesions were detected in a subset. There was no evidence of infection with or exposure to reticuloendotheliosis virus, West Nile virus, respiratory Mycoplasmataceae species, Pasteurella multocida, intestinal Eimeria spp., or oral Trichomonas spp. Several pathogens of potential concern were detected, including avian adenovirus (8.6%), Toxoplasma gondii (2.3%), and haemosporidians (a Haemoproteus sp. (1.5%), Leucocytozoon schoutedeni (1.5%), and Plasmodium homopolare haplotype 2 [lineage LAIRI01; 3.6%]). Physaloptera sp. (12%) and Sarcocystis sp. (1%) were detected in the breast muscle. Low intraspecific genetic diversity was noted for Physaloptera sp., and sequences were most similar to Physaloptera sequences from bobwhites and grasshoppers (Orthoptera) in Texas. Low intensities of chewing lice, chiggers, and ticks were observed. A subset of bobwhites had evidence of exposure to selected toxicants and heavy metals; a small number had low levels of iron, manganese, zinc, molybdenum, and copper, which were not considered diagnostically relevant. In general, bobwhites from western Oklahoma appeared to be in good health with a low diversity of pathogens detected, but future work is needed to understand potentially changing disease risks for this population.

Clinical implications of trichomonads detected in bronchoalveolar fluid by metagenomic next-generation sequencing: a multicenter retrospective study.

Background: Pulmonary trichomoniasis is considered a neglected disease due to failures in recognizing it, stemming from insensitive microbial methods and a lack of specific clinical features. This study aims to analyze the clinical implications of trichomonads detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Methods: This multicenter retrospective study included patients diagnosed with pneumonia, admitted to three tertiary hospitals in China from July 2018 to September 2022, with trichomonads detected in BALF through mNGS. The analysis covered demographics, comorbidities, symptoms, laboratory findings, mNGS results, clinical treatment, and outcomes of these patients. Results: A total of 17 patients were enrolled, comprising 14 males and 3 females. Trichomonas tenax and Trichomonas vaginalis were detected by mNGS in BALF samples of 15 and 2 patients, respectively. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the presence of risk factors for trichomonad infection, including immunocompromised conditions, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, oral/periodontal diseases, and aspiration. Among 11 patients with risk factors (Case 1-11), 4 received nitromidazoles as part of comprehensive treatment, achieving a 100% treatment success rate. The remaining 7 patients, who did not receive nitromidazoles, had only one achieving relief after broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy, resulting in a 14.3% treatment success rate. For the 6 patients without any risk factors for trichomonad infection (Case 12-17), none received nitromidazoles during hospitalization. However, 4 out of these 6 patients (66.7%) eventually recovered. Conclusion: mNGS proves to be an efficient tool for detecting trichomonads in BALF samples. Comprehensive analysis of clinical features and laboratory indicators is essential to distinguish between infection and colonization of trichomonads. Pulmonary trichomoniasis should not be overlooked when trichomonads are detected in BALF from patients with risk factors.

A novel detection method based on MIRA-CRISPR/Cas13a-LFD targeting the repeated DNA sequence of Trichomonas vaginalis.

BACKGROUND: Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan parasite, widely recognized as the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally. This infection is linked to various complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and an increased risk of acquiring HIV. Current molecular detection methods for T. vaginalis are often costly and technically challenging. METHODS: We developed a novel detection method for T. vaginalis using a multi-enzyme isothermal rapid amplification-clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (MIRA-CRISPR)/Cas13a-lateral flow device (LFD). This assay targets the repeated DNA sequence (GenBank: L23861.1) of T. vaginalis and is performed at a constant temperature of 37 °C for approximately 1 hour. RESULTS: The detection limit of genomic DNA (gDNA) using our protocol was 1 × 10-4 ng/µl. Specificity was confirmed by the absence of cross-reaction with gDNA from various other microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus taiwanensis, Escherichia coli, Monilia albicans, Giardia lamblia, or Toxoplasma gondii. Among 30 clinical samples tested, the positive rates of T. vaginalis detection were 33.33% (10/30) by wet mount microscopy, 40% (12/30) by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 40% (12/30) by MIRA-CRISPR/Cas13a-LFD, and 40% (12/30) by the culture method. Compared with the culture method, the gold standard for diagnosing trichomoniasis, wet mount microscopy showed a sensitivity of 83.3% and moderate diagnostic agreement (kappa value = 0.87). Both nested PCR and MIRA-CRISPR/Cas13a-LFD exhibited 100% sensitivity and excellent diagnostic agreement (kappa value = 1). CONCLUSIONS: The MIRA-CRISPR/Cas13a-LFD method is a convenient, rapid, stable, and accurate diagnostic tool for detecting T. vaginalis. This method has the potential to enhance the diagnosis and management of vaginitis, offering a significant improvement over existing diagnostic techniques.

Trichomoniasis and retesting in Durham County, North Carolina, United States, 2021 - 2022.

BACKGROUND: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends universal retesting within 3 months after treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis infection given high rates of persistent infection or reinfection, or if this is not possible, within 12 months following treatment. Data is lacking on how often this is actually done. METHODS: We analyzed the demographic and clinical characteristics, rate of return for the recommended retesting, concordance between wet prep and nucleic acid amplification testing, and percent positivity for T. vaginalis on repeat vaginal specimens at a local public health department in Durham, North Carolina, United States. RESULTS: Of 193 females treated for trichomoniasis between March 1, 2021 - May 31, 2022, 83% were Black or African American and 44% between the ages of 20 and 29 years. Of these individuals, 32% had retesting performed within 3 months and 50% within 365 days after treatment. Females between the ages of 20 and 29 years were more likely to return for retesting than those between the ages of 30 and 39 years. Of those who returned for retesting, 10% were positive on repeat testing. CONCLUSION: In this study, 50% of females diagnosed with trichomoniasis completed retesting within 365 days. Improved scheduling of clients at the time of trichomoniasis treatment and improved identification in our electronic health record of individuals diagnosed with trichomoniasis within the prior year would likely improve retesting rates. Given the high prevalence of trichomoniasis, expanded screening of asymptomatic females in settings where this is feasible may be warranted.

First reported case of Trichomonas gallinae infection in red-breasted toucan (Ramphastos dicolorus).

This study reports the infection and diagnosis of the protozoan morphologic complex Trichomonas gallinae in a baby red-breasted toucan (Ramphastos dicolorus). Nodular lesions on the soft palate and edema in the oral cavity were observed macroscopically. Microscopically, a granuloma with multiple layers of necrosis interspersed with inflammatory polymorphonuclear infiltrates was observed. Parasitism was confirmed by parasitological diagnosis, isolation of the flagellates in culture medium, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using 5.8S ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Flanking internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene regions were amplified by polymerase chain reaction, and the sequences were analyzed phylogenetically using MEGA 11 software. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS1/5.8S rRNA/ITS2 sequences demonstrated high nucleotide identity with two Trichomonas sequences available in GenBank, which were more closely related to T. vaginalis (99%) than to T. gallinae (98%). In addition to being potential transmitters of this protozoan, rigorous monitoring of infectious and parasitic diseases in wild bird populations is essential for their preservation. The forms of transmission of Trichomonas sp. favor the occurrence of the disease in many non-Columbiformes species, which is essential for the monitoring of this disease in wild birds.

Emphysematous vaginitis in a gravid woman.

A primigravida in her late 20s presented to the obstetrics and gynaecology department in labour. On per speculum examination, multiple cystic lesions, 1-5 mm in size were observed occupying the anterior, posterior and lateral vaginal walls. Vaginal wet mount was normal and vaginal cultures were negative. Biopsy findings were consistent with emphysematous vaginitis. Vaginitis emphysematosa is a rare, benign self-limiting condition that presents with multiple, air-filled cysts in the vaginal or ectocervical mucosa. This condition is seen in both gravid and non gravid women, usually associated with a Trichomonas or Gardnerella infection.

Exposure of Tritrichomonas foetus to sublethal doses of metronidazole induces a specific proinflammatory response in murine macrophages.

Tritrichomonas foetus is a flagellated parasite that primarily infects the reproductive tissues of livestock, causing bovine trichomoniasis. The cytoplasmic membrane of T. foetus contains various compounds that contribute to adherence, colonization, and pathogenicity. Metronidazole (MTZ) is the main treatment for trichomoniasis, but the emergence of drug-resistant strains is a concern due to improper use and dosing. T. foetus infection induces inflammation, and macrophages are key players in the immune response. However, our understanding of the host's immune response to T. foetus is limited, and the specific mechanisms underlying these responses are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact of T. foetus surface proteins from trophozoites cultured under different sublethal MTZ conditions (MTZ-treated T. foetus MPs) on macrophage activation. By analyzing cytokine levels and gene expression in murine macrophages, we demonstrated that MTZ-treated T. foetus MPs induce a specific proinflammatory response. MTZ-treated T. foetus MPs-exposed macrophages exhibited a higher NO and H2 O2 production and overexpression of iNOS and NOX-2 genes in comparison to untreated T. foetus. Additionally, MTZ-treated T. foetus MPs triggered a significant induction of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1ß, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, as well as the overexpression of the TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB genes on murine macrophages. The study aimed to unravel the immunological response and potential proinflammatory pathways involved in T. foetus infection and MTZ stress. Understanding the immune responses and mechanisms through which T. foetus surface proteins activate macrophages can contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for controlling bovine trichomoniasis.

Xanthan-carrageenan film containing sesame seed oil: A nanocomposite pharmaceutical platform for trichomoniasis treatment.

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection that poses significant complications for women. Challenges in treatment include adverse effects and resistance to standard antimicrobial agents. Given this context, a sesame seed oil nanoemulsion (SONE) was developed and showed anti-Trichomonas vaginalis activity. To facilitate the local application of SONE, a polysaccharide film was developed using xanthan gum (XG) and κ-carrageenan gum (CG). A blend of XG and CG (at 2 %, ratio 1:3) plasticized with glycerol produced a more promising film (XCF) than using the gums individually. The film containing SONE (SONE-XCF) was successfully obtained by replacing the aqueous solvent with SONE via solvent evaporation technique. The hydrophilic SONE-XCF exhibited homogeneity and suitable mechanical properties for vaginal application. Furthermore, SONE-XCF demonstrated mucoadhesive properties and high absorption capacity for excessive vaginal fluids produced in vaginitis. It also had a disintegration time of over 8 h, indicating long retention at the intended site of action. Hemolysis and chorioallantoic membrane tests confirmed the safety of the film. Therefore, SONE-XCF is a biocompatible film with a natural composition and inherent activity against T. vaginalis, possessing exceptional characteristics that make it appropriate for vaginal application, offering an interesting alternative for trichomoniasis treatment.

The Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Quercus brantii and Artemisia aucheri Boiss Against Trichomonas vaginalis In vitro.

Objective: Trichomoniasis is the most common sexually transmitted protozoan infection worldwide. Metronidazole is widely considered as the drug of choice for treating of trichomoniasis but considering its potential side effects, we aimed to assess the therapeutic influences of hydro-alcoholic extracts of Quercus brantii and Artemisia aucheri Boiss as alternative medications against Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis). Methods: The trophozoites were cultured in TYI-S-33 medium at a density of 5x105 trophozoites/mL. Subsequently, they were incubated with varying concentrations of the plant extracts (32, 64, 125, 250, 500, and 1,000 µg/mL) and metronidazole (16, 32, 64, 125, 250, and 500 µg/mL), as the positive control. The number of trophozoites in each well plate was quantified after 2, 4, 6, 24, 48, and 72 hours using trypan blue staining. Finally, the viability of the parasite was assessed by vital methylene blue staining. Results: The hydro-alcoholic extracts of Q. brantii and A. aucheri Boiss at concentrations of 125, 250, 500, and 1,000 µg/mL demonstrated significant efficacy against the parasite. Our findings indicated that the minimum effective concentrations were 125 µg/mL and hydro-alcoholic extracts of Q. brantii and A. aucheri Boiss have the ability to effectively eliminate T. vaginalis after 48 and 72 hours of treatment. Conclusion: The findings of the present study showed that hydro-alcoholic extract of Q. brantii and A. aucheri Boiss can induce death in T. vaginalis. However, further complementary in vivo studies are needed to assess the components of these plants in the treatment of T. vaginalis.

Identification of miRNA Associated with Trichomonas gallinae Resistance in Pigeon (Columba livia).

Trichomonas gallinae (T. gallinae) has a great influence on the pigeon industry. Pigeons display different resistance abilities to T. gallinae, so the study of the molecular mechanism of resistance is necessary in breeding disease resistant lines. MiRNA plays important roles in the immune response, but there are still no reports of miRNA regulating trichomonosis resistance. We used small RNA sequencing technology to characterize miRNA profiles in different groups. T. gallinae was nasally inoculated in one day old squabs, and according to the infection status, the groups were divided into control (C), susceptible (S) and tolerant (T) groups. We identified 2429 miRNAs in total, including 1162 known miRNAs and 1267 new miRNAs. In a comparison among the C, S and T groups, the target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were analyzed via GO and KEGG annotation. The results showed that the target genes were enriched in immune-response-related pathways. This indicated that the differentially expressed miRNAs had a critical influence on T. gallinae infection. Novel_miR_741, which could inhibit the expression of PRKCQ, was down-regulated in the T group compared to the C group. It was proven that a decreased novel_miR_741 expression would increase the expression of PRKCQ and increase the immune response. This study brings new insights into understanding the mechanism of trichomonosis resistance.

Public willingness to receive chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis vaccines: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis contribute significantly to global morbidity and mortality. Researchers are pursuing vaccines for these STIs, and a clinical trial is currently underway for a chlamydia vaccine. However, there is little research available on individuals' willingness to receive chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis vaccines. The purpose of this analysis was to map the existing literature we have on individuals' willingness to receive these bacterial/parasitic STI vaccines and understand what information on vaccine acceptability is still needed. METHODS: We searched seven databases for literature on STI vaccine acceptability, then conducted title/abstract and full-text reviews to assess eligibility. All reviews and abstractions were conducted blindly by two reviewers, with discrepancies settled by discussion or the input of a third reviewer. RESULTS: Eight of the original 2,259 texts of interest met inclusion criteria. After data abstraction, we found that gonorrhea was the most commonly examined, followed by chlamydia and syphilis. Trichomoniasis vaccine acceptability was not reported. Most texts reported high acceptability, but there did not appear to be data describing how vaccine characteristics affect acceptability. Similarly, while the literature covers a variety of populations, most of the study populations were based out of the United States or Canada and were patrons of healthcare facilities or participants from a larger health intervention study. Therefore, more information is needed on populations outside North America, and on groups with lower healthcare access and utilization. CONCLUSION: As the incidence of bacterial and parasitic STIs increase, and as we grow nearer vaccines for these illnesses, understanding how likely the public is to accept and receive these vaccines is crucial to their success. While the existing literature describes STI vaccine acceptability in a variety of populations, their overall number is small. More research into STI vaccine acceptability outside of North America, and especially examining how factors like number of doses, timing, and cost influence vaccine acceptability is needed to ensure effective future vaccine rollouts.