Intestinal Parasites Research Articles

THE OCCURRENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITES AMONG CHILDREN WITHIN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

This study evaluates the Occurrence of Intestinal Parasites Among Children within South Eastern Nigeria (A Case Study of Abia, Imo and Ebonyi State). The study population consisted of pre-school and school children of ages between 1 to 15 years using a random sampling method. A questionnaire was administered to survey the pupil’s data such as age, type of toilet available, sex, hand washing habit, water sources, and occupation of parents or guardians. Children were provided with universal containers and requested to bring stool specimen on or before 8:00am in the morning. The specimens were appropriately labeled with identification numbers and placed in a cold box with ice packs, immediately after collection and transported to the microbiology laboratory of Abia State University. The Samples were immediately examined for visible haematuria and turbidity. Prevalence was calculated and expressed as percentage of positive cases over the number examined. Data from questionnaire were coded and ranked and analyzed using SPSS version 13.0. Chi-square was used to compare significant differences in prevalence between the states visited, male and female infection of the parasites, ages and risk factors. The results indicated that the age and gender distribution of 300 subjects revealed that there were more males 162 than females 138. Out of the 300 stool specimen, watery stool specimen were (46), semi formed (55), formed (164) and mucoid stool specimen (35) (Table 1). The intestinal parasites identified in stool specimen includes Hookworm (12.7%), Strongylodies stearcoralis (3.3), Ascaris lumbricoides (20.7%), Taenia sp. (2.7), Trichuris trichiura (1.7%), and Entamoeba histolytica (4.0%) (Table 2). The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 49.7% and higher infection was observed in males (60%) than in females (47%) (Table 3) helminthes were found more in formed stools specimens than in watery stool while cysts were more in watery specimens. (Table 4) The age group 6 to 10 years was the most affected (54.7%) while the age group 11 to 15 years was the least affected (43.2%) (Table 5) The highest infection rate of (68%) occurred in Ebonyi State (figure 2). The researchers concluded that intestinal parasitemia are common among preschool and school children in south east states of Nigeria. Males of the age group 6-10 were mostly affected. We therefore recommend reintroduction of health education and sanitary inspection in the south eastern states of Nigeria.

Intestinal Parasitic Infection in Human Immuno-Diffeciency Virus and Acquired Immune Difficiency Syndrome (HIV/Aids) Patients Attending General Hospital Doma in Nasarawa State

Intestinal parasitic infections poses significant risks for individuals living with HIV/AIDS due to their compromised immune systems as it remains a significant global health concern, particularly in low and middle income region like Doma Local Government Area where sanitation and hygiene practices tends to be inadequate. The study investigated the intestinal parasites in a total of 400 stool samples collected from informed individuals living with HIV/AIDS that vary in age, gender, and socioeconomic status attending General Hospital Doma in Nasarawa State. Samples were preserved to prevent degradation, followed by microscopic examination and analyzed for the presence of eggs, cysts, or trophozoites, using direct smear, concentration methods, and formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation technique to enhance detection rates. A structured questionnaire was used to gather information on risk factors and data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. The P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Intestinal parasites were recovered in 103 out of 400 samples processed, yielding an overall prevalence rate of 25.7%. Among the recovered parasites, Hookworm exhibited the highest prevalence at 24.3%, followed by Giardia lamblia at 20.4%. Other notable infections included Ascaris lumbricoides (18.4%), Entamoeba histolytica at 14.6%, Enterobius vermicularis (10.7%), Strongyloides stercoralis (6.8%), Hymenolepis nana (3.9%), and Toxoplasma gondii (1.0%). The highest prevalence of infections occurred among patients in the age group 21-30years (19.4%) while the lowest prevalence was observed in patients aged 61 years and above (4.9%) (P<0.05). The observed difference in infection prevalence among the sexes was not statistically significant (P> 0.05), however, infections were more common in females (52.9%) compared to males (47.1%). Based on their risk factors patients who live in rural settings are more infected (71.9%) than those who live in an urban setting (28.1%), patients who are poor financially were more infected (61.1%) than those who are middle class (28.1%) and rich (10.6%) and patients who drink table water were less infected (4.9%) compared to those who drink borehole water (18.4%), well water (30.1%) and stream water (46.6%). Overall, the findings underscore the high burden of intestinal parasitic infections among HIV/AIDS patients, with specific demographic patterns that warrant further investigation for effective treatment and prevention strategies.

Modelling international travel as risk of acquiring Dientamoeba fragilis: Comparison to Giardia duodenalis data.

The intestinal parasite Dientamoeba fragilis (DF) is spread worldwide and can cause prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms, yet its link to international travel has been scarcely studied. To explore this connection, we examined the association between DF cases and international travel history by destination, comparing the findings to data on Giardia duodenalis (GD), a common travel-acquired intestinal parasite. We analysed clinical data from patients with DF or GD infection in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, categorizing the patients as travellers and non-travellers on the basis of their travel history. To assess acquisition risk by destination, we devised a DF/GD risk score (RS) relating case numbers to travel volumes as denominators in each destination, with travel data retrieved from the Official Statistics of Finland (OSF). Travel history was reported less frequently by patients with DF (30%) than GD (60%). DF had the highest RSs for Africa (41.3), followed by Asia and Oceania (17.9) and the Americas (11.5). The respective GD RSs were 32.8, 25.4, and 11.9. The lowest RSs for both parasites were recorded for Eastern and Western Europe, Russia and the Baltic countries, and Scandinavia. For Asia and Oceania, the GD RS exceeded that of DF; for the other sites, DF had higher RSs than GD. Dientamoeba fragilis appears to be transmitted both domestically and internationally. Although the overall acquisition risk appears low, for both Dientamoeba fragilis and Giardia duodenalis, the highest RSs are linked to visits to (sub)tropical regions, with subregional differences between the two parasites.

Through the eyes of the participant: using photovoice to understand the experiences and effects of ivermectin MDA in the context of the BOHEMIA clinical trial in Kwale, Kenya

BackgroundAssessing the acceptability of new malaria control interventions in clinical trials can be complex due to the need for strict ethical standards and specific trial procedures. While in-depth interviews and focus group discussions can provide useful insights, a more participatory method of data collection which complements these methods is photovoice. Photovoice offers a unique approach, empowering participants to share their experiences and perceptions on their own terms. Photovoice was employed alongside the BOHEMIA clinical trial (a trial investigating the safety and efficacy of ivermectin mass-drug administration (MDA) for malaria control) to explore participants' views on the trial and the effects of the intervention on individuals and communities.MethodsTwo participants from each of five villages involved in the trial (two intervention, three control) were purposively selected and trained on the ethical and technical use of cameras. During the final round of the intervention, participants photographed their trial experiences and the MDA effects. Two picture-sharing discussions were conducted to explore the picture content and reasons for their inclusion.ResultsBoth intervention and control groups expressed confidence in the trial procedures, with pictures capturing barcode scanning and health assessments, activities reported to provide reassurance and enhance trust. Photos from both groups showed positive outcomes such as improved appetite and fewer mosquitoes. However, photos from the ivermectin group also showed clearing of jiggers and killing of bed bugs. Images of rashes, described as a negative effect of the MDA, were taken by both groups. Pictures of mosquito breeding sites and sources of intestinal worms were also shared by both groups.ConclusionPhotovoice provided valuable insights into trial experiences, intervention effects, and revealed unexpected outcomes, such as killing of bedbugs, that warrant deeper exploration. It exposed broader community concerns of the source of malaria and intestinal worms not addressed by either the intervention or local health authorities.

HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF GOLDEN-MANTLED HOWLER MONKEYS (ALOUATTA PALLIATA PALLIATA) IN DRY FOREST FROM THE NORTH PACIFIC COAST, COSTA RICA.

The golden-mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata palliata) represents an excellent sentinel species for use in One Health modeling because of its extensive natural range, regular contact with humans and domestic animals, and susceptibility to zoonotic diseases. The purpose of this research is to establish baseline health assessments for free ranging golden-mantled howler monkeys in Marino Las Baulas National Park, Costa Rica. In April 2013, seven free ranging golden-mantled howler monkeys were anesthetized for physical examinations and biological sample collection, including blood for hematology and blood gas analysis. All seven howler monkeys studied appeared in good overall health. On physical exams, 4/7 (57%) had some level of dental disease, most notably crown fractures. Fecal samples for endoparasite evaluation were collected from the seven anesthetized animals as well as an additional three animals that were anesthetized but remained in the trees out of reach for full physical exams. Feces were collected from the rectum or collected from the ground immediately after defecation. Fecal analysis showed 9/10 (90%) had one or more species of intestinal parasites, and one animal tested positive for Giardia spp. Hematologic values showed a mild monocytosis and eosinophilia compared to other Alouatta spp. Trypanosoma spp. were present in the blood smear of one animal. Additional vector-borne disease testing found one individual PCR positive to Plasmodium spp., and one individual PCR positive to Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus. Antibodies for West Nile virus were found in 5/7 (71%) of the animals; however, PCR testing for West Nile virus and dengue virus was negative for all samples. This represents the first published health assessments for howler monkeys in this region.

Helminth-HIV Co-infection in the Osh Region, Kyrgyzstan: A prospective cohort Study on Public Health Challenges and Intervention Strategies

Background: HIV related immune suppression is a growing public health issue especially if it has implications on immune function. HIV induced immunosuppression makes people more vulnerable to other opportunistic infections such as helminthiasis. In the areas with high prevalence of parasitic diseases for example the south of Kyrgyzstan co-infection with helminths can worsen immune dysfunction and may rapiden the progression of HIV disease. There is increasing evidence of a link between HIV-helminth co-infection and lower CD4+ cell counts, therefore it is crucial to explore the clinical implications of this relationship in detail. Objective: To examine the clinical symptoms of helminthiasis in persons living with HIV (PLHIV) and its effect on CD4+ cell counts to guide the formulation of evidence-based treatment and intervention strategies. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted between 2018 and 2024, 157 PLHIV with gastrointestinal symptoms including chronic or intermittent abdominal discomfort, diarrhea of unclear etiology, unexplained weight loss, and dyspeptic manifestations were enrolled. Parasitological diagnosis was done by fecal analysis, Kato-Katz technique was used to quantitate helminth eggs and light microscopy for oocysts, cysts, eggs and larvae of intestinal parasites. Statistical analyses were done using R-Studio, with descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing (χ² test, Fisher’s exact test, and t-test), and regression modeling to analyze the relationship between helminthiasis and CD4+ cell depletion. Results: The aim of this study was to offer a comprehensive investigation of the prevalence and severity of helminthiasis among PLHIV, the relationship between immune suppression and helminthiasis, and the potential role of helminthiasis in disease progression. These findings will help in identifying the need for routine anthelmintic treatment, as advised by the WHO in the endemic areas. Conclusion: It is crucial to have a better understanding of the interaction between HIV and helminth co-infections in order to improve diagnostic protocols and therapeutic interventions. The findings from this study will provide a quantitative and qualitative basis for the development of specific deworming guidelines and public health measures that can lead to better clinical outcomes for people living with HIV in Kyrgyz Republic

Co-infection of intestinal protozoa and intestinal parasites with Helicobacter pylori among HIV AIDS patients at Jimma Medical Center, Ethiopia.

Co-infection of intestinal protozoa and intestinal parasites with Helicobacter pylori among HIV AIDS patients at Jimma Medical Center, Ethiopia.

Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) and Contributing Factors in Bovine Calves in Southern Nepal.

In Nepal, cows and buffaloes are common livestock used in subsistence farming and are often afflicted by helminth and protozoan parasites. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and contributing (i.e., previously suggested to be associated with IPIs) factors affecting bovine calves in the Birgunj region, Nepal. From June to December 2023, 200 faecal samples (100 from commercial farms and 100 from subsistence farms) were collected and analysed using flotation and sedimentation techniques. Contributing factors were systematically obtained using structured questionnaires and direct field observations. Overall, 62% of the samples contained oocysts or eggs of intestinal parasites. The identified species included one protozoan (Eimeria spp., 7.5%), five nematodes (Strongyloides spp., 15.5%; Ostertagia spp., 6.5%; Haemonchus spp., 4.5%; Toxocara spp. and 11.5%; Ascaris spp., 4%) and two trematodes (Fasciola spp., 20%; Paramphistomum spp., 13%). The Fasciola spp. prevalence was notably higher in calves from subsistence farms compared to commercial farms (p=0.015). Buffalo calves presented higher rates of Fasciola spp. and dual infections (p=0.001), whereas cow calves presented a greater prevalence of Toxocara spp. (p=0.046). Calves grazing near riverbanks presented significantly higher odds (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.07-7.14]) of any IPIs, even after adjusting for other significant factors in a bivariate model. Factors, such as free-range rearing, subsistence farming and grazing on riverbank grasses, were linked to higher odds of Fasciola spp. infection in the bivariate model, but only the presence of buffalo calves ([aOR]: 2.64, 95% CI [1.03-6.76]) remained significant after mutual adjustment (i.e., in the multivariate model). These findings underscore the significant burden of intestinal parasites in young calves, highlighting the need for regular inspections and preventive measures.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of intestinal parasites in shelter dogs from South Korea

Prevalence and molecular characterization of intestinal parasites in shelter dogs from South Korea

Prevalence of intestinal parasites, Salmonella, Shigella and antimicrobial resistance of bacterial isolates among food handlers in Wachemo University Students’ food service facility, Southcentral Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Prevalence of intestinal parasites, Salmonella, Shigella and antimicrobial resistance of bacterial isolates among food handlers in Wachemo University Students’ food service facility, Southcentral Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

The Occurrence of Intestinal Parasites Infections among Children within Pankshin

This study evaluates the Occurrence of Intestinal Parasites infection Among Children Within Pankshin local Government Area. The study population was made up of school children of ages between 6 to 15 years using a random sampling method. A questionnaire was administered to survey the pupil’s data such as age, type of toilet available, sex, hand washing habit, water sources, and occupation of parents or guardians. Children were provided with universal containers and requested to bring stool specimen on or before 8:00am in the morning, they were previously and carefully instructed with illustration aids. The specimens were appropriately labeled with identification numbers and placed in a cold box with ice packs, immediately after collection and transported to the biology laboratory of Federal College of Education Pankshin. The Samples were immediately examined. Prevalence was calculated and expressed as percentage of positive cases over the number examined. Data from questionnaire were analyzed using SPSS version 13.0. Chi-square was used to compare significant differences. The overall results of the intestinal parasites indicated that the age and gender distribution of 3000 subjects revealed that there were more females 1580 than males 1420. Out of the 3000 stool specimen, watery stool specimen were (460), semi formed (550), formed (1640) and mucoid stool specimen (350) (Table 1). The intestinal parasites identified in stool specimen includes Hookworm (13.2%), Strongylodies stearcoralis (3.8), Ascaris lumbricoides (20.4%), Taenia sp. (2.9), Trichuris trichiura (1.7%), and Entamoeba histolytica (54.1%) (Table 2). Males (71.0) were more infected than female (49.5) also age group 6-10 years (54.7) is more infected 11-15years (43.2). We therefore recommend reintroduction of health education and sanitary inspection in Pankshin LGA of Plateau State.

Intestinal parasitic infestations in adult chronic spontaneous urticaria patients and the relation between them: A case–control study

Objectives Chronic urticaria (CU) is a prevalent allergic skin condition with variable symptoms and a complex etiology. It is characterized by the presence of itchy hives, angioedema, or both on at least twice-weekly basis for more than 6 weeks. The cause of CU has yet to be thoroughly established. It is unclear how intestinal parasites affect CU and whether they can trigger the clinical manifestations of allergic reactions. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestations in adults with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and explore their potential association. Material and Methods This was a case-control study that included 100 healthy individuals as group control and 100 patients suffering from CSU. All patients were examined for stool analysis to detect intestinal parasitic infestations. Results The age of patients ranged from 20 to 57. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestations was 66% in the CSU patients, which was statistically significantly higher as compared to the control group (16%) (P < 0.001). There was a strong relationship between positive parasitic infestations and the severity of urticaria. There was a higher rate of positive parasitic infestations in the cases that did not respond to the full dose of antihistamine and needed a second line of treatment (92.9%) as compared to the cases treated only with antihistamine (55.6%) (P < 0.001). Conclusion The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestations was higher in CU patients and also correlated with its severity.

Giardiavirus infection alleviates growth restriction and intestinal damage caused by the intestinal parasite Giardia duodenalis

BackgroundGiardia duodenalis is a prevalent intestinal pathogen causing giardiasis, a condition characterized by diarrhea and frequently linked to malnutrition and growth impairments in children. The virulence of Giardiavirus (GLV) may efficiently clear Giardia parasites from infected patients. However, we have a limited understanding of GLV transmission among Giardia species and GLV-infected Giardia’s impact on pathogenicity.MethodsThis study investigated extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated via ultracentrifugation or exosome assay kit to detect the presence of GLV in EVs, the results were detected using ultrastructure and molecular methods, including transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and dot blot. Transwell migration assays confirmed the spread of GLV-enveloped EVs among Giardia species using inhibitor experiments and immunofluorescence. Mice gavaged with Giardia, with or without GLV infection, were assessed for disease progression, including growth parameters (weight and size gains), intestinal permeability, and pathology.ResultsParts of GLV exploit the Giardia EVs pathway to reach the extracellular environment, allowing GLV to spread among Giardia species via these EVs. The uptake of GLV-containing EVs by Giardia results in rapid trophozoite infection, and GLV wrapped in EVs also offers protection against external interference. Importantly, EV-coated GLV-infected Giardia leads to divergent clinical symptoms in mice, posing less risk to mice and reducing symptoms, such as emaciation, stunted growth, and lesion damage, compared with GLV-free Giardia-infected mice.ConclusionsOur studies show that GLV wrapped in EVs can spread among Giardia species, and GLV infection alleviates the lesions caused by Giardia. These findings reveal that GLV could be a target for the development of novel intervention strategies against Giardia.Graphical abstract

PHYTOCHEMICAL AND FTIR SPECTROSCOPIC ANALYSIS OF BALANITESaegyptiacaSEED AND STEM BARK EXTRACT

With various applications, Balanites aegyptiaca (Desert Date) is a traditional remedy for jaundice, intestinal worm infection, syphilis, malaria, dysentery amongst others but despite its good medicinal properties, it is still considered a lost crop because little or no attention has been put into using it for generation of modern medicines. Hexane and Methanol Extracts from seed and Stem Bark of the plant were analyzed for the presence of phytochemicals and the extract and isolates were also analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer. The result of the analysis revealed the presence of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, resin and other bioactive compounds. The seed FT-IR analysis of Balanites aegyptiaca showed peaks at 3240.63 cm-1 which corresponded to an O-H stretching typical for an aromatic ring. The peaks at 3567.36 cm-1, 2921.98 cm-1, 2359.42 cm-1, 1743.48 cm-1, 1653.33 cm-1 and 1130.91 cm-1 corresponded to C?C stretching typical for alkyne, C-H stretching typical for alkane, C-O stretching typical for Ester, C-C stretching typical for alkane and C-O bending typical for carboxylic acid. The stem bark FT-IR analysis of Balanites aegyptiaca showed peaks at 3396.29 cm-1 and 3374.85 cm-1 representing the bonded –OH group corresponding to aromatic rings of phenol. Peaks at 1065.00cm-1, 1734.06cm-1, 1706.71cm-1, 1230.95cm- 1, 1175.12cm-1 and 1734.06cm-1 was associated to C-O stretching typical for esters. The study would help in developing new economic opportunities for rural communities through cultivation, processing, and commercialization of the plant. Additionally, it could promote environmental sustainability by encouraging the use of locally available resources.

Intestinal parasites in children and adolescents from rural communities of Manabí, Ecuador

Intestinal parasites in children and adolescents from rural communities of Manabí, Ecuador

The dubious case of Urbanorum: a call to strengthen global pathogen verification mechanisms.

The detection and validation of novel pathogens have become increasingly important, as seen with the emergence of COVID-19 and mpox. Current detection and response capacities, especially in resource-poor regions, are insufficient, highlighting the key role of clinical laboratories. Despite the strides made by national and supranational agencies in targeting viruses and bacteria, parasites have been largely overlooked. The case of Urbanorum, a purportedly novel intestinal parasite reported from South America, illustrates the challenges in validating new pathogens. Compelling microscopic images have fostered belief in the existence and aetiological role of Urbanorum, posing grave challenges for health-care workers with poor parasitological knowledge, who might accept such results at face value and administer unnecessary treatments to affected individuals. Although the number of publications is scarce, these sources present a seemingly credible narrative that spreads through local social media. However, doubts about the existence of Urbanorum persist due to the absence of genetic and molecular analyses and inconsistencies in epidemiological data. This situation exemplifies the need for robust global pathogen verification mechanisms and authoritative guidance from organisations such as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO to prevent misinformation and aid clinical judgement. ALatin American regional CDC could be instrumental in verifying claims of novel pathogens and providing credible guidance at both local and global levels. This Personal View emphasises the urgent need for enhanced global coordination, improved diagnostic methodologies, and reliable information dissemination to effectively manage threats regarding emerging pathogens.

The Occurrence and Meta-Analysis of Investigations on Intestinal Parasitic Infections Among Captive Wild Mammals in Mainland China.

This study investigated the infection rates of intestinal parasites in captive wild animals from 2000 to 2024 and analyzed the associated risk factors using a meta-analysis. We retrieved 29 studies, with a total of 8421 captive wild mammals, published between 2000 and 2024. We used the DerSimonian-Laird model and calculated infection rate estimates with the variance stabilizing double arcsine transformation. The results revealed that the overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in captive wild mammals in mainland China was found to be 53.9%. The highest infection rate was observed for nematodes at 45.1%. Seasonal subgroup analysis revealed the highest incidence in summer at 61.8% and 61.6% in winter. In the class order Mammalia, the highest infection rate was found in the Primates at 66.5% and similarly high values were determined in several other orders like Artiodactyla (59%), Rodentia (57.1%), Carnivora (53.3%) and extremely low in Proboscidea (19.9%). The highest overall infection rate was recorded in summer. The infection rate of gastrointestinal parasites in captive wild mammals in mainland China is notably high. Additionally, parasitic infection rates in captive animals were found to be lower in economically developed regions of mainland China.

Predictors of anemia among HIV-infected children in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis

Anemia continues to be one of the common complications among HIV-infected children. In Ethiopia, though there is a systematic review and meta-analysis study on anemia among HIV-infected children, it only disclosed the effect Highly Active Antiretroviral Treatment on HIV/AIDS-anemia comorbidity, and yet, the meta effect of other potential factors such as type of ART, presence of opportunistic infection, advanced stage of HIV/AIDS, and cotrimoxazole therapy on HIV/AIDS-anemia comorbidity have not been explored in the previous review. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify the factors associated with anemia among HIV-infected children. Moreover, this study provides an up-to-date pooled estimate of anemia among HIV-infected children in Ethiopia. We systematically searched PubMed, HINARI, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and African Journals Online on February 3, 2024, to identify relevant primary research articles. The Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist was used to check the quality of the original studies. Meta package for proportions (Metapro) was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of anemia among HIV-infected children using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity across studies was checked using the I-square test. Funnel plots visual inspection and Egger’s tests were done to detect publication bias. The pooled prevalence of anemia among HIV-infected children in Ethiopia was 23.79% (95% CI 17.28, 31.81). Age < 7 years (OR 3.71, 95% CI 2.58; 5.33), advanced HIV disease (OR 2.78, 95% CI 2.00; 3.87), intestinal parasitic infection (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.02; 5.09), poor ART treatment adherence (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.23; 3.10), opportunistic infection (OR 2.81, 95% CI 1.59; 4.95), viral load > 1000 copies/ml (OR 4.29, 95% CI 2.28; 8.09), and zidovudine containing regimen (OR 5.07, 95% CI 2.41; 10.64) were identified as factors associated with a higher risk of anemia. Whereas, cotrimoxazole prophylaxis therapy (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.35; 0.72) reduces the risk of anemia among HIV-infected children. In Ethiopia, anemia remains a public health concern among children living with HIV. Therefore, regular screening and management of anemia are important for HIV-infected children, particularly for those with advanced HIV disease, opportunistic infection, high viral load, and who are taking zidovudine-containing regimens for better clinical outcomes. Moreover, preventive chemotherapy (deworming) and counseling on infection prevention should be provided for children living with HIV to prevent parasitic infection.

Edukasi Cuci Tangan Untuk Meningkatkan PHBS Pada Siswa SDN 9 Kelapa Kabupaten Bangka Barat

Introduction: Clean and healthy living behavior (PHBS) in the school environment is a set of behaviors that are practiced by students, teachers, and the school environment community as a learning outcome. The problems that arise in Kelapa 9 Public Elementary School show that students do not practice PHBS habits, such as rarely washing hands with soap and running water, rarely using healthy latrines, rarely disposing of trash in its place resulting in several cases of diseases such as diarrhea, DHF, intestinal worms, typhoid, and ulcer. Objective: The purpose of this service was to provide knowledge and understanding of PHBS to school children. In this case the students of SDN 9 Kelapa, West Bangka can practice it in their daily lives. Method: This public service was conducted by counseling with material on clean and healthy living behaviour and watching the 6 correct steps to wash your hands Result: After conducting counseling and practicing hand washing, the results were: 22 students (100%) were able to rub their hands by bringing their palms together in the good category; 22 students (100%) could rub the palm of their hand against the back of their hand in the good category; 20 students (96%) were able to practice both palms together and fingers intertwined in the good category and 2 students (4%) did it in the sufficient category; 17 students (90%) could place the back of their fingers on the palm with the fingers locked in the good category, 4 students (8%) did it in the sufficient category and 1 student (2%) was in the poor category; 16 students (88%) performed rubbing and rotating the right thumb in the good category, 4 students (8%) in the sufficient category and 2 students (4%) in the poor category; 22 students (100%) could place the five fingers of the left hand on the palm of the right hand, rotate it forward and backward in the good categoryConclusion: Hand washing education and practice can increase knowledge and understanding about clean and healthy living (PHBS) among SDN 9 Kelapa school students.

Anthelmintic Potential and In Silico Studies of Ricinoleic Acid from the Seed Oil of Ricinus communis L.

The prevalence of human intestinal helminth parasitic infections is extensive, with over half of the global population estimated to suffer from these infections. Traditionally, various plant species, including Ricinus communis L. (Euphorbiaceae), are used to treat helminth infections. In this study, ricinoleic acid was isolated from the base hydrolysate of the petroleum ether seed extract of R. communis using column chromatography and transformed into ricinoleic acid methyl ester through esterification. The extract, ricinoleic acid and its methyl ester were evaluated for their anthelmintic activities against the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. The results revealed that at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, ricinoleic acid and its methyl ester killed 97.40% and 97.83% of C. elegans worms, respectively. Molecular docking studies of ricinoleic acid on succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase (G6PD), and tubulin beta-2 chain (TBB2C) revealed that ricinoleic acid has a more favorable interaction with succinate dehydrogenase (-5.408 kcal/mol) compared to glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase (-3.758 kcal/mol) and tubulin beta-2 chain (-1.444 kcal/mol). Furthermore, Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) analyses unveiled that ricinoleic acid adheres to Lipinski's rule of five, positioning it as a potential compound to treat helminths. The current study demonstrated that R. communis seed oil possesses genuine anthelmintic activity against C. elegans, which is likely due to ricinoleic acid.