Serodiagnosis of strongyloidiasis. The application and significance

Parasitological diagnosis based on the faecal examination is frequently difficult in cases of chronic, low-level S. stercoralis infection. Even when a newly developed sensitive method (an agar plate culture) is applied, it is essential to examine faecal samples repeatedly to achieve a correct diagnosis. Additionally, it is important to note that a negative result does not necessarily indicate the unequivocal absence of the infection. On the other hand, several serological tests which have recently been developed for strongyloidiasis have proven reliable when used to complement parasitological examination. We have developed two serological tests, ELISA and GPAT, to demonstrate Strongyloides infection and possible applications of the serological tests for diagnosis, mass-screening, epidemiological study and postchemotherapy evaluation of strongyloidiasis were reviewed based on our recent studies.O diagnóstico parasitológico baseado no exame de fezes é muitas vezes difícil, principalmente nos casos de infecções crônicas ou leves pelo S. stercoralis. Mesmo utilizando o mais novo e sensível método (cultura em placas de ágar) é essencial examinar repetidamente as amostras fecais, para um diagnóstico correto. É importante ressaltar também que o resultado negativo não indica de modo inequívoco a ausência da infecção. Por outro lado, vários testes sorológicos recentemente desenvolvidos para estrongiloidíase tem provado a sua eficácia quando usados para complementar exames parasitológicos. Para demonstrar infecção por Strongyloides desenvolvemos dois tipos de testes sorológicos - ELISA e GPAT - e, com base em nossos recentes estudos, apresentamos uma opinião sobre sua possível aplicação para screening em massa, estudos epidemiológicos e avaliação pós-tratamento de estrongiloidíases

Strongyloides stercoralis : global distribution and risk factors

The soil-transmitted threadworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, is one of the most neglected among the so-called neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). We reviewed studies of the last 20 years on S. stercoralis's global prevalence in general populations and risk groups.; A literature search was performed in PubMed for articles published between January 1989 and October 2011. Articles presenting information on infection prevalence were included. A Bayesian meta-analysis was carried out to obtain country-specific prevalence estimates and to compare disease odds ratios in different risk groups taking into account the sensitivities of the diagnostic methods applied. A total of 354 studies from 78 countries were included for the prevalence calculations, 194 (62.4%) were community-based studies, 121 (34.2%) were hospital-based studies and 39 (11.0%) were studies on refugees and immigrants. World maps with country data are provided. In numerous African, Asian and South-American resource-poor countries, information on S. stercoralis is lacking. The meta-analysis showed an association between HIV-infection/alcoholism and S. stercoralis infection (OR: 2.17 BCI: 1.18-4.01; OR: 6.69; BCI: 1.47-33.8), respectively.; Our findings show high infection prevalence rates in the general population in selected countries and geographical regions. S. stercoralis infection is prominent in several risk groups. Adequate information on the prevalence is still lacking from many countries. However, current information underscore that S. stercoralis must not be neglected. Further assessments in socio-economic and ecological settings are needed and integration into global helminth control is warranted

Exploring Competitive Strategies in Agri-tourism Ventures Located in Peri-Urban Areas of Telangana, India

Agri-tourism is gaining momentum as a catalyst for rural development in Telangana, India. This study delves into the competitive strategies adopted by event and recreation agri-tourism ventures in Telangana, with a focus on those operating in proximity to urban centers like Hyderabad. By examining the strategic maneuvers of these ventures through the lens of the 4P's of marketing - Place, Price, Product, and Promotion - the study aims to elucidate their approach to attracting tourists and ensuring economic viability. The research explores the diverse activities offered by agri-tourism ventures, analyzes their strategic approaches, and assesses their financial feasibility. Through primary data collection via structured interviews with venture owners and secondary data analysis, the study provides insights into the competitive landscape of the agri-tourism sector in Telangana. The findings underscore the strategic importance of factors such as location, pricing flexibility, product diversification, and promotional efforts in shaping the success of agri-tourism ventures. Ultimately, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the competitive dynamics within the burgeoning agri-tourism industry, offering valuable insights for stakeholders and policymakers aiming to foster sustainable rural development and economic growth in Telangana and beyond