Uncovering the effects of Giardia duodenalis on the balance of DNA viruses and bacteria in children's gut microbiota.

The neglected parasitosis giardiasis is one of the most common intestinal infections worldwide, affecting mainly infants and young children. Giardia duodenalis may disturb the local microbiome, leading to intestinal ecosystem disorders, and altering different processes in the host, such as the immune response. Nevertheless, the alterations promoted by G. duodenalis on the human gut microbiome have not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we characterized the gut microbiota of G. duodenalis-infected children and determine the main alterations promoted by the parasite. To do so, fecal samples of 26 infected and four uninfected children aged 2 to 6 years old were processed for High Efficiency Microarray analysis, in order to describe their bacterial and viral profiles. Then, we quantified the total bacterial population by qPCR and assessed fecal calprotectin levels, which are closely related with gut inflammation. A total of 286 bacteria's species and 17 viruses' strains were identified. Our results revealed no statistically significant differences between G. duodenalis positive and negative groups in the taxa's phyla and families. However, bacterial species diversity was increased in children infected with G. duodenalis (p < 0.05), while the total number of bacteria was decreased (p < 0.05). Considering the virome analysis, 17 different strains were identified, 88% being bacteriophages. The correlation analysis revealed an important disruption in the balance of DNA virus and bacteria within the intestinal microbiota of Giardia-positive children. Our findings constitute the first description of the gut virome of Giardia-infected children and suggest that G. duodenalis infection exerts a modulatory effect on the gut microbiome, promoting local inflammation and altering the equilibrium of the parasite-microbiota-host triad. This highlights the importance of considering polymicrobial associations and understanding the broader context of giardiasis. Overall, our study provides new insights into the complex interactions between intestinal parasites and the microbiota, which may have implications for the development of novel therapeutic interventions in the future.

Good manufacturing practices of minimally processed vegetables reduce contamination with pathogenic microorganisms.

Consumption of ready-to-eat (RTE) vegetables is quick, easy and healthy, especially when eaten without cooking. However, they might be a source of foodborne pathogenic microorganisms. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological and parasitological contamination of fresh RTE vegetables produced in agroindustries in the Federal District of Brazil (FD), and to correlate contamination with good manufacturing practices (GMP). One hundred and three samples of RTE vegetables were collected from six agroindustries for microbiology and parasitology analyses and correlate with GMP; 54 samples were collected from three hypermarkets for parasitological evaluation. None of the samples analyzed were positive for Salmonella sp. and for thermotolerant coliforms, but they were contaminated with total coliforms. All analyzed samples were contaminated with at least one species of enteroparasistes or commensals, which were identified as Ascaris sp., Balantidium coli, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Hookworm, Strongyloides sp., Trichuris sp., Entamoeba sp., eggs and larvae of Nematoda, insects and fungi. Agroindustries that adopted GMP showed less contamination with helminths. RTE vegetables sold in hypermarkets of the FD are unfit for human consumption. It is important to guide farmers in the FD on the need to adopt good practices in the production and processing of vegetables to reduce the microbial contamination.

Host-Parasite Interactions in Individuals with Type 1 and 2 Diabetes Result in Higher Frequency of Ascaris lumbricoides and Giardia lamblia in Type 2 Diabetic Individuals.

Host-parasite interactions in diabetic patients might influence diabetes complications and intestinal parasitosis. The aim was to investigate the occurrence of enteroparasites in individuals with diabetes types 1 and 2. A descriptive study was designed to estimate frequencies of parasites and to compare them in individuals with diabetes types 1 and 2 from two Health Centers and one hospital in the Federal District of Brazil. Patients were allocated to the study by convenience. Three fecal samples of 156 diabetic individuals (120 type 1 and 36 type 2) were analyzed using two parasitological methods. Enteroparasites or commensals frequency in diabetics was 64%. Diabetics infected with up to six species of intestinal parasites or commensals were found. Frequencies of Ascaris lumbricoides and Giardia lamblia were higher in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The lower frequency of A. lumbricoides found in type 1 diabetes may be related to a strong Th2 response to parasites. Autoimmune response developed in type 1 diabetic individuals characterized by the production of Th1 cytokines could explain low frequency of G. lamblia. High frequency of parasites found in type 2 diabetes emphasizes the importance of periodic parasitological examinations in these individuals.

Inhibitory Effects of Pterodon emarginatus Bean Oil and Extract on Staphylococcus aureus.

BACKGROUND: Pterodon emarginatus is a tree of the Brazilian Savannah. The beans of this tree are used in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory preparations, especially for infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria can cause simple infections or serious illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, toxic shock syndrome, septicemia, and others. OBJECTIVE: This study had the goal of verifying the effect of the essential oil (OE) from P. emarginatus on the inhibition of S. aureus in culture medium, i.e., " in vitro" tests. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The vegetable material was cut and crushed with a press. The OE was obtained by extraction using hexane, alcohol, and water. The P. emarginatus extracts obtained were used to evaluate the antimicrobial effect on S. aureus (ATCC 25923) by tests of well diffusion, disc diffusion, and microdilution. The strain used in the assays was maintained in brain heart infusion broth and nutrient agar until testing. Afterward, the bacteria were spread on agar plates with Mueller-Hinton agar medium. In the wells and on the paper discs, the OE suspensions were placed in the following volumes: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, and 80 µL and subsequently they were incubated at 35°C ± 2°C. After 24 h, the number of colony-forming unit was determined. RESULTS: Pure OE and hydroalcoholic extract inhibited the growth of S. aureus, while aqueous extract had no effect on bacterial growth in all microbial methods used. CONCLUSION: Thus, the present study showed the potential of sucupira-based extracts against S. aureus growth, opening new perspectives for the evaluation of these bioactive compounds as phytopharmaceutical products. SUMMARY: Plant extract act as antimicrobials to prevent and reduce bacterial contaminationBeans of Pterodon emarginatus has antibacterial propertiesExtraction with different solvents might implicate on the rate of bacterial deathThe effect of different microbiological methods (well diffusion, disc diffusion and microdilution) was evaluated on reducing CFUThe results showed by MBC that concentrations superior to 10% (v/v) using AC and 7.5% (v/v) using OE were necessary to eliminate colonies formedAccording to data of MIC, at 2.5% of AC and OE was enough to kill S. aureusThe well diffusion technique demonstrated better performance than disc diffusion test for OE and AC extractsHydroalcoholic and oil extracts of sucupira beans had highest effect against Staphylococcus aureusAqueous extract had no effect on bacterial growth in all microbial methods testedThe sucupira-based extracts is a promising source as herbal drug due to therapeutic value Abbreviations Used: OE: Essencial oil; AC: Hydroalcoholic oil extract; AQ: Aqueous extracts; MIC: Minimum inhibitory concentration; MBC: Minimum bactericidal concentration; CFU: Colony formed unit.

Gynecological complaints and their associated factors among women in a family health-care clinic.

AIM: The aim of this study was to describe the most common gynecological complaints and possible associated factors among women of reproductive age attended at a family health-care clinic. METHODOLOGY: A transversal study conducted with a sample of an outpatient population consisting of women of reproductive age. Pregnant women and minors were excluded. The final sample consisted of women between 18 and 49 years of age. The participants answered a questionnaire in which the complaints of the last 4 weeks were registered. They were examined, had the vaginal pH assessed, and secretion was tested using a 10% potassium hydroxide solution to verify the presence of amine odor (whiff test). RESULTS: Most participants were black or of mixed races. Considering the frequency of complaints, there were no significant differences between white and nonwhite women. There was an association between vaginal pH and discharge complaints as well as unpleasant odor, positive test of amines, smoking, and performing vaginal douches. CONCLUSIONS: Vaginal complaints were common among participants; the practice of vaginal douches was also frequent and was associated with higher pH values. The use of hormonal contraceptives was associated with lower pH values. There was no significant association between condom use and gynecological complaints, vaginal pH, or the whiff test.

Avaliação da abordagem sindrômica do corrimento vaginal para o diagnóstico de tricomoníase / Evaluation of syndromic approach of vaginal discharge flowchart to diagnosis of trichomoniasis

A infecção por Trichomonas vaginalis é a doença sexualmente transmissível não viral mais prevalente no mundo. Entre os diferentes métodos para seu diagnóstico, estão os fluxogramas previstos pela abordagem sindrômica. Objetivo: Avaliar o fluxograma de corrimento vaginal para o diagnóstico de tricomoníase em mulheres atendidas em equipe de saúde da família. Métodos: Estudo transversal feito com amostra consecutiva de população ambulatorial, composta por mulheres em idade fértil, exceto gestantes e menores de idade. As participantes responderam a um questionário onde foram registradas as queixas ocorridas nas últimas quatro semanas. Também foram examinadas e submetidas à medição do pH vaginal e teste das aminas. A cultura em meio específico foi considerada como padrão-ouro. Resultados: Dez por cento das mulheres infectadas pela T. vaginalis estavam assintomáticas; entre as infectadas, a dispareunia foi significativamente maior do que entre as mulheres negativas. O esquema proposto pela abordagem sindrômica tem baixa especificidade e acurácia. Conclusão: O diagnóstico de tricomoníase embasado apenas na queixa de corrimento tem baixa acurácia; o resultado do teste das aminas melhora a especificidade do diagnóstico da infecção por Trichomonas vaginalis, independentemente do valor do pH vaginal.

Trichomonas vaginalis infection is the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted disease in the world. Among the different methods for diagnosis, the World Health Organization and Ministry of Health of Brazil proposes the use of flowcharts in the syndromic approach. Objective: To evaluate the syndromic approach of vaginal discharge to diagnosis of T. vaginalis infection. Methods: Transversal study with sample of outpatient population consisting of women in reproductive age. After exclusion of pregnant women and minor girls, the final sample consisted of women between 18 and 49 years old. The participants answered a questionnaire where the complaints were registered. They were examined, had the vaginal pH assessed and sample tested with 10% KOH solution to verify the exhalation of amine odor (whiff test). After this proceeding, a vaginal secretion sample was inoculated in a specific T. vaginalis culture medium. The culture results were used as the gold standard to evaluate the syndromic approach flowchart. The algorithm was evaluated according sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and predictive values. Results: Among women with T. vaginalis infection, 10% were asymptomatic; among them, dyspareunia was significantly higher, if compared to women with no infection. Flowchart proposed by the syndromic approach had low specificity and accuracy, leading to unnecessary treatment in two-third of women. Conclusion: The diagnosis of trichomoniasis based only on the discharge complaint had low accuracy; the whiff test result improves the specificity of diagnosis of T. vaginalis infection, regardless of the vaginal pH value

Prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis in women of reproductive age at a family health clinic.

INTRODUCTION: Trichomonas vaginalis is considered the most prevalent curable sexually transmitted infection, and its occurrence exceeds that of gonococcal and chlamydia infections. This parasite has been identified as responsible for the increased risk of transmission of HIV and has also been associated with prostate and cervical cancer. Many carriers of T. vaginalis are asymptomatic and, when experiencing a health problem, they most often have nonspecific symptoms. The aim of this research was to estimate the presence of T. vaginalis and the associated factors in women of childbearing age at a primary health care clinic in the Federal District of Brazil. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted with consecutive sampling of an outpatient population of women of childbearing age (excluding minors and pregnant women). The women answered a questionnaire and were examined. After vaginal pH measurement and whiff testing, a vaginal secretion sample was obtained for inoculation in TYM, a specific T. vaginalis culture medium. RESULTS: The presence of T. vaginalis was identified in 16% of the sample. Fewer lifetime sexual partners and consistent condom use were identified as factors of protection against the infection. Complaints of dyspareunia were proportionally higher among women with positive cultures for T. vaginalis. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of T. vaginalis infection was high in the sample studied. The infection was positively associated with the number of lifetime sexual partners, and consistent condom use was a protective factor. Vaginal complaints were more common among women with T. vaginalis, but only dyspareunia had significant association.

Prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis and Candida albicans among Brazilian Women of Reproductive Age.

INTRODUCTION: There are no studies assessing the simultaneous occurrence of Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) in the primary health care in Brazil. Despite different conditions to establishment of each one, the co-detection of both has been reported by some authors in previous studies from other regions. AIM: To compare the prevalence of T. vaginalis and C. albicans in correlation with associated variables. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study conducted in a family health clinic in the Federal District of Brazil, between November 2014 and March 2015. Vaginal swabs were collected from 201 women of the reproductive age selected from women registered at the family health clinic. Minors and pregnant women were excluded. The rates of T. vaginalis and Candida albicans prevalence were evaluated with vaginal pH, the whiff test, sexual practices and other social and demographic variables. Difference between proportions was assessed by Z-Test. RESULTS: C. albicans was present in 20% of the women, while 16% of them had T. vaginalis. The simultaneous occurrence of the agents was found in 1.5%. Significant differences were found between prevalence rates for the variables race/skin colour, practice of anilingus and lifetime number of sexual partners. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of T. vaginalis exceeds C.albicans among women with higher numbers of sexual partners. The prevalence of C. albicans was higher than T. vaginalis among white women and those who practice active and receptive anilingus. The simultaneous occurrence of the two microorganisms was uncommon.

Intestinal parasites in two indigenous ethnic groups in northwestern Amazonia / Parasitos intestinais em dois grupos indígenas no noroeste da Amazônia

Approximately 90% of the population in the northwestern Amazonia is composed of indigenous people and their healthcare is still a challenge. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of parasites in two indigenous ethnic groups (Baré and Baniwa) in northwestern Amazonia. Stool samples from 270 individuals (199 Baniwa and 71 Baré) were analyzed using Richie's method and the spontaneous sedimentation method. Statistical differences among the proportions of infected individuals based on gender, age, and ethnicity were determined. All individuals were infected by protozoans or helminths. The most frequent parasites in the indigenous people were Ascaris lumbricoides (73%), Entamoeba spp. (53%), and Giardia intestinalis (48%). Protozoan parasites were more common among children aged 0-12 years; however, the frequency of helminths, such as hookworms and A. lumbricoides, was higher in adults. There were no significant differences in parasite frequencies between different genders or ethnic groups. Mixed infections by two or more protozoan and/or helminth species were detected in 96% of individuals. One individual was infected by 14 species. A high frequency of intestinal parasites was found in Baré and Baniwa ethnic groups. Improvements to infrastructure and health education programs are required to reduce risk of infection by intestinal parasites.

Aproximadamente 90% da população no noroeste da Amazônia é composta de grupos indígenas e o acesso deles aos serviços de saúde ainda é um desafio. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a frequência de parasitos em dois grupos indígenas (Baré e Baniwa) no noroeste da Amazônia. Amostras de fezes de 270 indivíduos (199 Baniwa e 71 Baré) foram analisadas pelos métodos de Richie e sedimentação espontânea. Foram determinadas diferenças estatísticas entre as proporções de indivíduos infectados com base no sexo, idade e etnia. Todos os indivíduos estavam infectados por protozoários ou helmintos. Os parasitos mais frequentes nos índios foram Ascaris lumbricoides (73%), Entamoeba spp. (53%), e Giardia intestinalis (48%). Protozoários parasitos foram mais comuns entre as crianças com idade entre 0-12 anos; no entanto, a frequência de ancilostomídeos e A. lumbricoides foi maior em adultos. Não houve diferenças significativas nas frequências de parasitos entre os diferentes sexos ou grupos étnicos. Infecções mistas por duas ou mais espécies de protozoários e/ou helmintos foram detectadas em 96% dos indivíduos. Um indivíduo estava infectado por 14 espécies. Uma alta frequência de parasitos intestinais foi encontrada em indígenas dos grupos Baré e Baniwa. Melhorias dos programas de infra-estrutura e educação em saúde são necessárias para reduzir o risco de infecção por parasitos intestinais.

Frequency of intestinal parasites and commensals in street waste pickers from two cooperatives in the Brazilian Federal District

This study describes the occurrence of intestinal parasites and commensals among street waste pickers (SWPs) of two cooperatives of recyclable materials in the Federal District, Brazil. Stool samples from 75 individuals were analyzed using the Rugai method and spontaneous sedimentation. A questionnaire was applied to assess the awareness of SWPs regarding diseases caused by garbage handling and their prevention methods. Sixty SWPs (80%) were diagnosed with intestinal helminths or protozoa. The most frequent protozoa found were Entamoeba coli (43%), Endolimax nana (28%), and Entamoeba hartmanni (15%), and helminths such as Ascaris lumbricoides (12%), hookworms (8%), and Strongyloides stercoralis (8%) were also found. Other species identified in the workers were E. histolytica/dispar (8%), Giardia lamblia (7%), Hymenolepis diminuta (3%), and Hymenolepis nana (3%). Thirty nine SWPs (65%) had mixed infections. Most (80%) SWPs reported having parasitic diseases in the past, and 72% reported having undergone a stool test. All individuals considered important to use personal protective equipment but only 40% wore gloves. The adoption of healthy hygiene habits and the proper use of personal protective equipment should decrease the occurrence of intestinal parasites in these individuals

Secondary syphilis and acute pelvic inflammatory disease in primary health care: a case report

We present the case of a young woman who was attended to in a family health clinic. The patienthad genital lesions and lower abdominal pain, and was diagnosed with syphilis and acute pelvicinflammatory disease. Our aim is to share this experience, which occurred in a basic health unit.

Relatamos o caso de uma jovem atendida em equipe de saúde da família. Ela apresentavalesões genitais e dor no baixo ventre, tendo sido estabelecidos os diagnósticos de sífilis e doençainflamatória pélvica aguda. Nosso objetivo é compartilhar a experiência ocorrida em uma unidadede atenção primária à saúde.

Detection of intestinal parasites on field-grown strawberries in the Federal District of Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluated the presence of pathogenic human parasites on field-grown strawberries in the Federal District of Brazil. METHODS: A total of 48 samples of strawberries and 48 soil samples from 16 properties were analyzed. RESULTS: Contaminated strawberries were detected in 56% of the properties. Schistosoma mansoni, Ascaris lumbricoides or Ascaris suum, Balantidium coli, Endolimax nana, and Entamoeba spp. were detected. Soil was contaminated with Entamoeba spp., Entamoeba coli, Strongyloides spp., Ancylostomatidae, and Hymenolepis nana. CONCLUSIONS: Producers should be instructed on the safe handling of strawberries in order to reduce the incidence of strawberries that are contaminated with enteroparasites.

Ocorrência de parasitos intestinais em hortaliças comercializadas em feiras no Distrito Federal, Brasil / Intestinal parsites in vegetables commercialized in markets from Federal District, Brazil

Infecções parasitárias ocorrem em decorrência de precárias condições sanitárias e maus hábitos de higienização. Hortaliças comercializadas em feiras livres podem representar risco para a saúde pública por serem consumidas cruas pela população e, eventualmente, estarem contaminadas com cistos de protozoários, ovos e/ou larvas de helmintos parasitos. Com o objetivo de descrever a ocorrência desses organismos em hortaliças comercializadas em feiras, foram analisadas amostras de agrião (Nasturtium officinale R. Br), alface-crespa (Lactuca sativa L.) e rúcula (Eruca sativa Mill) em dez Regiões Administrativas do Distrito Federal, no período de fevereiro a abril de 2013, pelo método de sedimentação espontânea. Observou-se que todas as feiras comercializavam hortaliças contaminadas por algum organismo (protozoários, helmintos e/ou artrópodes). Os parasitos intestinais detectados foram Entamoeba sp., E. coli, Strongyloides sp., Ascaris sp, Enterobius vermicularis e Ancylostomidae. Concluiu-se que as hortaliças comercializadas nas feiras públicas do DF podem veicular parasitos intestinais caso não sejam devidamente higienizadas.

Parasitic infections occur due to poor sanitary conditions and hygiene habits. Vegetables sold in open markets may pose a risk to public health because they are eaten raw by the population and eventually be contaminated with protozoan cysts, eggs and/or larvae of helminthes parasites. In order to describe the occurrence of these parasites in vegetables sold in open markets, samples of watercress (Nasturtium officinale R. Br), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and arugula (Eruca sativa Mill) collected in ten administrative regions of the Federal District of Brazil were analyzed between February and April 2013, using the method of sedimentation. It was observed that all open markets sold vegetables contaminated by some organism (protozoans, helminthes and/or arthropods). The intestinal parasites detected were Entamoeba sp., E. coli, Strongyloides sp. Ascaris sp, Enterobius vermicularis and Ancylostomidae. It is concluded that vegetables sold in the open markets of the Federal District of Brazil may facilitate the transmission of intestinal parasites if not properly sanitized.

Factors associated with the occurrence of intestinal parasites in children living in the federal district of Brazil

This study aimed to describe factors associated with the occurrence of intestinal parasites in children living in the Federal District of Brazil (FD). Between 2012 and 2013 fecal samples from 193 children of Riacho Fundo II (RF, n=73) and Ceilândia (CE, n=120) were examined using Rugai and Lutz’s methods. Socioeconomic and health variables were obtained through interviews with the children’s parents. The association between these variables and the occurrence of parasites was analyzed by chi-squared or Fisher’s exact tests. The occurrence of parasites in RF (79 percent) was higher than in CE (54 percent). The most frequent parasites were Giardia intestinalis (RF=15 percent, CE=9 percent), Hymenolepis nana (RF=44 percent, CE=0 percent) and Ascaris lumbricoides (RF=30 percent, CE=2 percent). In CE, a higher frequency of parasites was found in children living in crowded houses and also in houses with domestic animals present. In RF, a higher frequency of parasites was found in children whose families did not wash fruit and vegetables hygienically. A relevant occurrence of intestinal parasites in children was found in the FD, where there is a treated water supply and sewage system. We concluded that poor hygiene habits are the key factors in the transmission of intestinal parasites in FD.

O objetivo do estudo foi descrever fatores associados à ocorrência de enteroparasitos em crianças no Distrito Federal (DF). Entre 2012 e 2013, foram examinadas amostras de fezes de 193 crianças das regiões administrativas de Riacho Fundo II (RF, n=73) e Ceilândia (CE, n=120) pelos métodos Rugai e Lutz. As variáveis socioeconômicas e sanitárias foram obtidas por meio de questionários aplicados às famílias e a associação com a ocorrência de enteroparasitos foi analisada pelo teste qui-quadrado. A ocorrência de enteroparasitos em RF (79 porcento) foi maior que em CE (54 porcento) e os mais frequentes foram: Giardia intestinalis (RF=15 porcento, CE=9 porcento), Hymenolepis nana (RF=44 porcento, CE=0 porcento) e Ascaris lumbricoides (RF=30 porcento, CE=2 porcento). Verificou-se frequência mais elevada de parasitos entre crianças de CE que viviam em casas com maior número de moradores e nas quais havia a presença de animais domésticos. Também foi encontrada frequência mais elevada de parasitos entre crianças de RF cujas famílias não higienizavam frutas e verduras. Uma relevante ocorrência de parasitos intestinais em crianças foi constatada no DF onde existem boas condições de saneamento básico. Conclui-se que, precários hábitos de higiene são fatores fundamentais para a transmissão de enteroparasitos no DF.

Infectivity of Strongyloides venezuelensis is influenced by variations in temperature and time of culture.

The present research investigated the influence of temperature and time of larvae culture on the infectivity of Strongyloides venezuelensis. Mice were infected s.c. with 1500 larvae of S. venezuelensis maintained at 28 °C for three days of culture (dc), 28 °C for seven dc or 18 °C for seven dc. On days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and 21 post-infection the animals were sacrificed and cell numbers in the blood, peritoneal cavity fluid (PCF), broncoalveolar fluid (BALF), cytokines, immunoglobulins, number of parasites and eggs/g of feces were quantified. Results demonstrated an increase in eosinophils and mononuclear cells in the blood, PCF and BALF of infected mice. Larvae at 28 °C/3dc induced earlier eosinophils in the PCF and BALF as opposed to larvae at 28 °C/7dc and 18 °C/7dc. Larvae at 28 °C/7dc induced higher synthesis of IL-4, IL-5 and IL-10 on days 5 and 7 post-infection. Larvae at 28 °C/3dc in culture induced higher synthesis of IL-12 than larvae of seven dc, but time in culture induced better synthesis of IFN-γ after larval migration had ceased and only adult worms were present. Larvae at 28 °C/3dc in culture induced higher synthesis of IgG and IgG1 and expelled less female parasites than larvae cultivated for seven days. In conclusion, it was observed that the infectivity of S. venezuelensis is influenced by variations in temperature and time of culture.

Enteroparasites and commensals among children in four peripheral districts of Uberlândia, State of Minas Gerais / Enteroparasitas e comensais em crianças de quatro bairros da periferia de Uberlândia, Estado de Minas Gerais

The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of intestinal parasites and commensals among children in four peripheral districts located in the northern, southern, eastern and western sectors of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, using the Baermann methods as modified by Moraes and Lutz. Out of 160 individuals studied, 93 (58.1 percent CI: 50.4-65.7) were infected, distributed among the sectors as follows: northern (72.5 percent), southern (47.5 percent), eastern (57.5 percent) and western (55 percent). The positive findings according to age groups were: 0-5 years (26.9 percent), 5-10 years (21.2 percent) and 10-15 years (10 percent). Male children presented 2.7 times higher risk of infection than females did (OR: 2.7; CI: 1052-7001). The parasites and commensals identified were: Giardia lamblia (27.5 percent), Entamoeba coli (20.6 percent), Ascaris lumbricoides (14.4 percent), Enterobius vermicularis (8.8 percent), Hymenolepis nana (7.5 percent), Hymenolepis diminuta (5 percent), hookworms (3.1 percent), Trichuris trichiura (2.5 percent), Endolimax nana (2.5 percent), Entamoeba hartmanni (2.5 percent), Strongyloides stercoralis (1.3 percent), Iodamoeba butschlii (1.3 percent) and Capillaria hepatica (0.6 percent). The infection rate in these children was high and showed the need to implement prophylactic education programs in the community.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a ocorrência de parasitas e comensais intestinais em crianças de quatro bairros periféricos, localizados nos setores norte, sul, leste e oeste em Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, utilizando os métodos de Baermann modificado por Moraes, e de Lutz. Dos 160 indivíduos estudados, 93 (58,1 por cento, IC: 50,4-65,7) estavam infectados, assim distribuídos: setor norte (72,5 por cento), sul (47,5 por cento), leste (57,5 por cento) e oeste (55 por cento). A positividade por faixa etária foi: 0 - 5 anos (26,9 por cento), 5 - 10 (21,2 por cento) e 10 - 15 anos (10 por cento). As crianças do sexo masculino mostraram 2,7 maior risco de infecção (OR: 2,7, IC: 1052-7001). Os agentes identificados foram: Giardia lamblia (27,5 por cento), Entamoeba coli (20,6 por cento), Ascaris lumbricoides (14,4 por cento), Enterobius vermicularis (8,8 por cento), Hymenolepis nana (7,5 por cento), Hymenolepis diminuta (5 por cento), ancilostomídeos (3,1 por cento), Trichuris trichiura (2,5 por cento), Endolimax nana (2,5 por cento), Entamoeba hartmanni (2,5 por cento), Strongyloides stercoralis (1,3 por cento), Iodamoeba butschlii (1,3 por cento) e Capillaria hepatica (0,6 por cento). A porcentagem de infecção nas crianças foi alta e mostrou a necessidade de implantação de programas de educação profilática na comunidade.

Strongyloides venezuelensis: the antigenic identity of eight strains for the immunodiagnosis of human strongyloidiasis.

The antigens of eight strains of Strongyloides venezuelensis were identified by means of the indirect immunofluorescence antibody (IFAT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblot (IB) tests. Infective larvae (L3) from these strains were obtained from Rattus norvegicus feces cultures. For IFAT, sections of L3 were used while the ELISA and IB, tests were conducted with alkaline extract. Ninety serum samples were tested: 30 from patients with S. stercoralis, 30 from patients with other parasitic diseases, and 30 from healthy subjects (free of parasites). Average sensitivity and specificity among all eight strains, both for IFAT and ELISA, were, respectively, 93% and 100%. In the IB, anti-S. stercoralis IgG recognized a single antigenic fraction with 45 kDa. Serum samples from patients with S. stercoralis revealed antigens from different strains of S. venezuelensis, indicating antigenic identity for possible use in the synthesis of recombinant antigen that could be useful in immunodiagnosis and vaccine against this parasite.

Enteroparasites and commensals among children in four peripheral districts of Uberlândia, State of Minas Gerais.

The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of intestinal parasites and commensals among children in four peripheral districts located in the northern, southern, eastern and western sectors of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, using the Baermann methods as modified by Moraes and Lutz. Out of 160 individuals studied, 93 (58.1% CI: 50.4-65.7) were infected, distributed among the sectors as follows: northern (72.5%), southern (47.5%), eastern (57.5%) and western (55%). The positive findings according to age groups were: 0-5 years (26.9%), 5-10 years (21.2%) and 10-15 years (10%). Male children presented 2.7 times higher risk of infection than females did (OR: 2.7; CI: 1052-7001). The parasites and commensals identified were: Giardia lamblia (27.5%), Entamoeba coli (20.6%), Ascaris lumbricoides (14.4%), Enterobius vermicularis (8.8%), Hymenolepis nana (7.5%), Hymenolepis diminuta (5%), hookworms (3.1%), Trichuris trichiura (2.5%), Endolimax nana (2.5%), Entamoeba hartmanni (2.5%), Strongyloides stercoralis (1.3%), Iodamoeba butschlii (1.3%) and Capillaria hepatica (0.6%). The infection rate in these children was high and showed the need to implement prophylactic education programs in the community.

Strongyloides venezuelensis alkaline extract for the diagnosis of human strongyloidiasis by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

The present study was conducted to detected IgG antibodies using Strongyloides venezuelensis alkaline extract for the diagnosis of human strongyloidiasis by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Sera from 90 subjects were analyzed (30 with strongyloidiasis, 30 with other parasites and 30 healthy individuals). Results were expressed in antibody titers, which were considered as positive when titer was >80. Sensibility and specificity of the assay were 100% and 96.7%, respectively. It can be concluded that the heterologous alkaline extract could be employed in ELISA as a diagnostic aid in human strongyloidiasis, due to its advantages as easiness of obtaining, practicability in preparing, and high indexes of sensitivity and specificity.

Strongyloides venezuelensis alkaline extract for the diagnosis of human strongyloidiasis by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

The present study was conducted to detected IgG antibodies using Strongyloides venezuelensis alkaline extract for the diagnosis of human strongyloidiasis by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Sera from 90 subjects were analyzed (30 with strongyloidiasis, 30 with other parasites and 30 healthy individuals). Results were expressed in antibody titers, which were considered as positive when titer was > 80. Sensibility and specificity of the assay were 100 percent and 96.7 percent, respectively. It can be concluded that the heterologous alkaline extract could be employed in ELISA as a diagnostic aid in human strongyloidiasis, due to its advantages as easiness of obtaining, practicability in preparing, and high indexes of sensitivity and specificity