Browsing by Person "Ong, Kuan Shion"

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Extremely low prevalence in soil-transmitted helminth infections among a multi-ethnic community in Segamat, Malaysia
(Springer, 2021-01-01) Wong, Li Wen; Ong, Kuan Shion; Goh, Calvin Bok Sun; Dwiyanto, Jacky; Reidpath, Daniel; Lee, Shaun Wen Huey; Ayub, Qasim; Rahman, Sadequr; Lee, Sui Mae
Soil-transmitted helminth infections (STHs) are recognized as a major health issue among socio-economically deprived communities. However, information is still lacking regarding the prevalence rates of STHs in the broader community across different countries in the tropics. This community study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for STHs in semi-rural communities in Segamat of Johor, Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was conducted with information collected from the study population through questionnaire. A total of 224 stool samples were examined for intestinal parasites through formalin-ether concentration and Kato–Katz techniques. Overall, only 1.8% (n = 4/224) of participants were infected with soil-transmitted helminths, the extremely low prevalence may be explained by the proper housing conditions with basic amenities and the practices of hygienic habits in daily life, highlighting the importance of adopting good hygienic practices.
First reported case of Gilbertella persicaria in human stool: outcome of a community study from Segamat, Johor, Malaysia
(Springer, 2020-06-23) Huët, Marie Andrea Laetitia; Wong, Li Wen; Goh, Calvin Bok Sun; Ong, Kuan Shion; Dwiyanto, Jacky; Reidpath, Daniel; Lee, Sui Mae; Rahman, Sadequr; Tan, Joash Ban Lee
Species of fungi belonging to the order Mucorales can be found everywhere in the environment. Gilbertella persicaria, which belongs to this order, have often been isolated from fruits and in water systems. However, there has been no report of isolation of this fungus from human samples. During a gut mycobiome study, from the Segamat community, Gilbertella persicaria was isolated from a human fecal sample and was characterized through a series of morphological assessment, biochemical tests, and molecular techniques. The isolate produced a white velvety surface that turned grayish after 24 h. Although no biofilm production was observed, the results indicated that the isolate could form calcium oxalate crystals, produced urease, and was resistant to low pH. The isolate was sensitive to amphotericin but resistant to voriconazole and itraconazole. The features of this fungus that could help in its survival in the human gut are also discussed.