Article
Parasitology
Javier Gandasegui, Berta Grau-Pujol, Maria Cambra-Pelleja, Valdemiro Escola, Maria Antonietta Demontis, Anelsio Cossa, Jose Carlos Jamine, Rafael Balana-Fouce, Lisette van Lieshout, Jose Munoz, Maria Martinez-Valladares
Summary: This study optimized the sample processing methodology and standardized pyrosequencing in soil-transmitted helminth (STH) pooled eggs. The protocols developed in this study can be used for large-scale screenings or anthelmintic efficacy trials in STH populations. The results suggest that the new pyrosequencing assays designed in this study provided accurate SNP frequencies in simulated resistance levels.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Khalid M. Mohammedsalih, Juergen Kruecken, Ahmed Bashar, Fathel-Rahman Juma, Abdalhakaim A. H. Abdalmalaik, Amna Khalafalla, Adam Abakar, Gerald Coles, Georg von Samson-Himmelstjerna
Summary: This study reported reduced albendazole efficacy in cattle in Sudan and described an E198L substitution in phenotypically BZ-resistant nematodes collected from cattle, which has not been previously reported.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Abhinaya Venkatesan, Pablo D. Jimenez Castro, Arianna S. Morosetti, Hannah C. Horvath, Rebecca M. Chen, Elizabeth S. Redman, Kayla Dunn, James Bryant V. Collins, James S. Fraser, Erik C. V. Anderson, Ray M. Kaplan, John S. V. Gilleard
Summary: This study provides the first evidence of widespread drug resistance in parasitic nematodes of companion animals, specifically in Ancylostoma caninum, and highlights the power of molecular approaches to assess anthelmintic resistance in a region.
Article
Parasitology
Christian M. Leutenegger, Cecilia E. Lozoya, Jeffrey Tereski, Christian Savard, Jennifer Ogeer, Rene Lallier
Summary: This study aimed to validate a probe-based allele-specific real-time PCR test for the F167Y polymorphism on the beta-tubulin isotype-1 gene in Ancylostoma caninum and determine its geographic distribution. The results revealed the widespread presence of benzimidazole resistance in canine hookworms in the general US pet dog population.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Frida Martin, Peter Halvarsson, Nicolas Delhomme, Johan Hoglund, Eva Tyden
Summary: The study investigated benzimidazole resistance in Parascaris univalens, identifying new 13-tubulin genes and revealing their phylogenetic relationships, while confirming the presence of a resistant population in a Swedish stud farm. Despite no SNPs found to distinguish resistant and susceptible populations, the research underscores the ongoing need for molecular markers for benzimidazole resistance in P. univalens.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Barbara Hinney, Sandra Wiedermann, Antonio Bosco, Laura Rinaldi, Martin Hofer, Anja Joachim, Juergen Kruecken, Ralf Steinborn
Summary: Haemonchus contortus, the most pathogenic nematode in small ruminants, is hampered by anthelmintic resistance (AR). Detection of AR status using phenotypic tests cannot achieve early detection, but single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the isotype 1 & beta;-tubulin gene allow early detection of AR-associated alleles in benzimidazoles (BZs). A novel digital PCR (dPCR) was developed to detect these SNPs in H. contortus, with a detection limit of 15 copies/& mu;l and high accuracy. The developed assays showed elevated frequencies of F200Y resistance alleles in Austrian samples and identified polymorphisms in codon 167 and codon 198 for the first time in H. contortus from Austria. In Italian samples, the frequency of resistance alleles was comparatively low but traceable. The dPCR assays provide a valuable tool for early onset SNP-based surveillance of AR development in H. contortus.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Murat Oezben, Georg Von Samson-Himmelstjerna, Malene K. B. Freiin von Streit, Edwina J. A. Wilkes, Kristopher J. Hughes, Juergen Krucken
Summary: This study suggests that different mechanisms may lead to benzimidazoles resistance in ascarids and strongyle nematodes.
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Hao Li, Kamala Vanarsa, Ting Zhang, Sanam Soomro, Pietro Antonio Cicalese, Valeria Duran, Shobha Dasari, Kyung Hyun Lee, Claudia Pedroza, John B. Kisiel, Huanlong Qin, Robert S. Bresalier, Nicholas Chia, Chandra Mohan
Summary: Novel stool protein biomarkers of colorectal cancer were screened and validated through the use of aptamer-based methods and ELISA validation in multiple cohorts. MMP9, fibrinogen, myeloperoxidase, and haptoglobin emerged as promising stool biomarkers for colorectal cancer, with potential clinical utility in early diagnosis. Longitudinal studies are warranted to further assess the effectiveness of these biomarkers.
JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Michaela Urda Dolinska, Alzbeta Konigova, Georg von Samson Himmelstjerna, Marian Varady
Summary: We assessed the variation in the frequency of BZ resistance-associated alleles at specific codons of the beta-tubulin 1 gene in susceptible and resistant strains of Haemonchus contortus using pyrosequencing. Our results show significant variation in the frequency of these alleles during the patent period, which should be taken into consideration when testing for BZ resistance in parasite populations.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Sebastian Muchiut, Cesar Fiel, Juan Pedro Liron, Mercedes Lloberas, Carolina Ceriani, Ramiro Lorenzo, Eliana Riva, Gisele Bernat, Patricia Cardozo, Silvina Fernandez, Pedro Steffan
Summary: This study utilized phenotypic and genotypic techniques to investigate the replacement process of benzimidazole-resistant Haemonchus contortus population. Various methods were used to evaluate drug resistance, and it was found that the replacement led to a significant reduction in resistance. The consistency between genetic and phenotypical studies provided valuable information for the management of anthelmintic resistance.
PARASITOLOGY RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Parasitology
Michal Babjak, Alzbeta Konigova, Michaela Urda Dolinska, Tomas Kupcinskas, Jaroslav Vadlejch, Georg von Samson-Himmelstjerna, Saulius Petkevicius, Marian Varady
Summary: Considerable research has been conducted on optimizing in vitro tests for diagnosing resistance in pre-parasitic stages of parasites. This study compared the in vivo FECRT, the in vitro EHT, and molecular detection of a beta-tubulin isotype 1 allele associated with benzimidazole resistance in Haemonchus contortus larvae. The results showed that EHT could accurately estimate in vivo resistance and efficacy of drugs.
Article
Parasitology
M. J. Evans, U. N. Chaudhry, L. M. Costa-Junior, K. Hamer, S. R. Leeson, N. D. Sargison
Summary: Anthelmintic resistance poses a global threat to sheep production sustainability. Strategies to combat this resistance require a better understanding of gastrointestinal nematode diversity, population dynamics, and genetics, with field studies and genetic analysis playing a crucial role in refining models and identifying resistant mutations. This study in southeastern Scotland highlights the importance of including species identification in epidemiological studies and the need for continued monitoring of anthelmintic resistance.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Maximiliano Colobbio, Gerardo Duarte, Maria Elisa Melian, Mauricio Silvera, Ramiro Teixeira, Laura Dominguez, Juan Carlos Ramos, Eduardo Manta
Summary: This study successfully developed an efficient multigram and economic process for synthesizing the novel VAL-FBZ compound, providing the necessary gram-level quantities for in vivo assays. The method not only improved the synthesis efficiency but also reduced operational risks and costs.
LETTERS IN DRUG DESIGN & DISCOVERY
(2023)
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Steven Itzkowitz, Francis A. Farraye, Paul J. Limburg, Zubin Gagrat, Marilyn C. Olson, Julia Zella, John B. Kisiel
Summary: This study evaluated the performance of multitarget stool-DNA test without the haemoglobin component (mt-sDNA(Hgb-)) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and determined its sensitivity for colorectal cancer and advanced colorectal neoplasia (ACRN). The results showed that mt-sDNA(Hgb-) had a sensitivity of 73.3% for any stage cancers and 76.2% for ACRN. The sensitivity was highest for IBD-associated high-grade dysplasia.
JOURNAL OF CROHNS & COLITIS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Petra de Haas, Bazezew Yenew, Getu Diriba, Misikir Amare, Andrii Slyzkyi, Yohannes Demissie, Bihil Sherefdin, Ahmed Bedru, Endale Mengesha, Zewdu Gashu Dememew, Abebaw Kebede, Muluwork Getahun, Edine Tiemersma, Degu Jerene
Summary: This study aims to optimize the Simple One-Step (SOS) stool processing method for testing stool specimens using the Xpert-Ultra in children and adults in selected health facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study is designed to assess the robustness of the SOS stool method and provide insights in stool storage conditions and sampling strategies.
Article
Pathology
Jaco J. Verweij
Summary: This paper discusses setting tailor-made performance characteristics for the validation of laboratory developed tests (LDTs) for the molecular diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infections in compliance with ISO 15189 guidelines, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these tests through daily monitoring and reassessment of the test set-up. It highlights the necessity of modifying or adding additional characteristics based on personal insights to achieve continuous quality improvement in diagnostic laboratory practice.
EXPERT REVIEW OF MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Gebremedhin Gebrezgabiher, Delenasaw Yewhalaw, Mio Ayana, Asrat Hailu, Zeleke Mekonnen
Summary: The study conducted in Ethiopia showed that long-term Community-directed treatment with ivermectin has significantly reduced the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections, specifically A. lumbricoides and hookworm, while having no impact on T. trichiura infections.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Daniel Dana, Sara Roose, Johnny Vlaminck, Mio Ayana, Zeleke Mekonnen, Peter Geldhof, Bruno Levecke
Summary: The study found that more children in Ethiopian school children are exposed to worm infections, and different types of antibody assays can better evaluate this exposure.
PLOS NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Wojciech Witkowski, Sarah Gerlo, Evelien De Smet, Magdalena Wejda, Delphine Acar, Steven Callens, Stefan Heytens, Elizaveta Padalko, Hanne Vercruysse, Piet Cools, Linos Vandekerckhove
Summary: This study analyzed the humoral response to the BNT162b2 vaccine among nursing home residents and staff. The results showed significantly decreased serum antibody levels and neutralization titers among nursing home residents, with a high proportion of non-responders. Additionally, a significant decrease in antibody titers was observed three months post-vaccination in COVID-19-naive nursing home residents. Flow cytometry and interferon gamma secretion analyses indicated that antibody non-responders also failed to mount cellular responses. This study highlights the need for additional measures and continued monitoring in the population of frail elderly individuals.
Article
Virology
R. Jajou, A. J. G. Mutsaers-van Oudheusden, J. J. Verweij, A. Rietveld, J. L. Murk
Summary: This study found that individuals who transmitted SARS-CoV-2 had viral loads more than three times higher than non-transmitters. The information of viral load can be used to prioritize individuals with the highest risk of transmission during source and contact tracing.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL VIROLOGY
(2022)
Editorial Material
Health Care Sciences & Services
Esayas Kebede Gudina, Zeleke Mekonnen, Daniel Yilma
Summary: Despite the progress made in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still challenges in terms of vaccine supply and vaccine hesitancy. By the end of 2021, only half of WHO Member States have reached the target of immunizing 40% of their populations, while less than 10% of the population in low-income countries have received at least one dose of the vaccine. The evolution of highly mutated variants of the virus is causing more uncertainties in controlling the pandemic.
RISK MANAGEMENT AND HEALTHCARE POLICY
(2022)
Article
Parasitology
Marina Papaiakovou, Natalia Fraija-Fernandez, Katherine James, Andrew G. Briscoe, Andie Hall, Timothy P. Jenkins, Julia Dunn, Bruno Levecke, Zeleke Mekonnen, Piet Cools, Stephen R. Doyle, Cinzia Cantacessi, D. T. J. Littlewood
Summary: Currently, the identification of gastrointestinal helminth infections relies on traditional microscopy-based techniques, but molecular approaches using DNA detection and quantification offer increased sensitivity and specificity. In this study, low-depth whole genome sequencing (genome skimming) was used to detect and characterize helminth diversity in faecal samples. Three methods were evaluated to characterize metagenomic sequencing data, and the success of genome skimming was dependent on the availability of reference sequences and methods to detect parasite DNA in mixed samples.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biology
Thomas Crellen, Melissa Haswell, Paiboon Sithithaworn, Somphou Sayasone, Peter Odermatt, Poppy H. L. Lamberton, Simon E. F. Spencer, T. Deirdre Hollingsworth
Summary: A study on opisthorchiasis found that parasite fecundity varies between populations and the relationship between routine diagnostics and true prevalence is influenced by parasite aggregation.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY B-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Judith Brusselmans, An De Sutter, Brecht Devleesschauwer, Hans Verstraelen, Piet Cools
Summary: This review examines the association between symptomatic bacterial vaginosis (BV) and the emotional, sexual, and social health of women. The results suggest that symptomatic BV may have an impact on the emotional, sexual, and social well-being of women, but more evidence is needed to determine the extent of this association.
Article
Computer Science, Information Systems
Muhammad Asaduzzaman, Zeleke Mekonnen, Ernst Kristian Rodland, Sundeep Sahay, Andrea Sylvia Winkler, Christoph Gradmann
Summary: Our study explored the perspectives of stakeholders in Jimma, Ethiopia on the use of DHIS2 as a One Health Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) surveillance platform. The findings suggest that DHIS2 has the potential to be a user-friendly and acceptable platform for OH-AMR surveillance. Despite some challenges, most participants perceived DHIS2 as suitable for OH-AMR surveillance and expressed their willingness to contribute in their current professional roles.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INFORMATICS
(2024)
Article
Virology
Eline Meyers, Jeongho Park, Anja Coen, Leen Raman, Stefan Heytens, Joowon Rhee, Elizaveta Padalko, Piet Cools
Summary: During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, rapid and sensitive detection of the virus is crucial. A new point-of-care test system based on LAMP technology was evaluated, and it showed high clinical sensitivity and specificity for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The system's easy operation and ready-to-use reagents make it suitable for various settings, contributing to more efficient outbreak control and quarantine policies.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Sengaloun Phonekeo, Sengchanh Kounnavong, Manithong Vonglokham, Latsamy Siengsounthone, Anousin Homsana, Sascha Gummin, Penelope Vounatsu, Prawat Nittiyanant, Suchin Worawichawong, Wichai Aekplakorn, Peter Odermatt, Somphou Sayasone
Summary: This study assessed the prevalence of intestinal helminth infections and associated risk factors among adults in the Lao PDR. The results showed a high prevalence of infections, with different species being prevalent in different regions. Men, the Lao-Tai ethnic group, and individuals without toilet facilities at home had higher infection risks.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Sreymom Oy, Chan Hang Saing, Mengieng Ung, Marina Zahari, Inthavong Nouhak, Sothea Kim, Michiko Nagashima-Hayashi, Dyna Khuon, Virya Koy, Sovatha Mam, Somphou Sayasone, Vonthanak Saphonn, Siyan Yi
Summary: This study aims to develop, pilot, and assess the feasibility and acceptability of an infection prevention and control (IPC) intervention in Cambodia and the Lao People's Democratic Republic to reduce hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). The study will consist of four phases, including examining IPC practices, developing interventions, piloting the interventions, and assessing their feasibility and acceptability.
FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Somphou Sayasone, Phonepadith Khattignavong, Sengdeuane Keomalaphet, Phoyphaylinh Prasayasith, Pheovaly Soundala, Sonesimmaly Sannikone, Takashi Kumagai, Souk Phomhaksa, Phouth Inthavong, Emilie Louise Akiko Matsumoto-Takahashi, Bouasy Hongvanthong, Paul T. Brey, Shigeyuki Kano, Moritoshi Iwagami
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence of Schistosoma mekongi in humans and domestic animals in Laos. The results showed a decrease in human infection rates, but the infection among domestic animals was unclear. DNA of S. mekongi was detected in dog stool samples, indicating a possible reservoir. However, the prevalence of other helminth infections was high. These findings suggest that interventions should focus on human populations, but periodic surveillance of dogs is necessary to monitor possible resurgence of S. mekongi infection in animals.
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Heidi Janssens, Stefan Heytens, Eline Meyers, Ellen De Schepper, An De Sutter, Brecht Devleesschauwer, Asangwing Formukong, Sara Keirse, Elizaveta Padalko, Tom Geens, Piet Cools
Summary: This study investigated the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies in residents and staff of 20 nursing homes in Flanders, Belgium. The results showed that nursing homes had a higher seroprevalence compared to the general population. Among the staff with antibodies, 14% reported no typical COVID-19 symptoms, while 51% of the residents with antibodies had no symptoms. The study also found a weaker association between COVID-19 symptoms and positive serology in residents compared to staff.
EPIDEMIOLOGY AND INFECTION
(2022)