1. Estimating the test characteristics of the applied in-house real-time PCRs: Specificity testing of the group-specific helminth real-time PCRs with helminth DNA Sensitivity and specificity testing of the group specific helminth real-time PCRs with DNA from stool samples positive in genus- and species-specific helminth real-time PCR after DNA extraction applying the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit Sensitivity and specificity testing of the in-house helminth real-time PCRs with DNA from stool samples positive for helminth eggs or larvae in microscopy after DNA extraction applying the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit

2. Comparing the effects of nucleic acid extraction applying the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit and a harsher bead beating-based nucleic extraction scheme with: Historic residual stool samples which had been positive before in any helminth real-time PCR after nucleic acid extraction using the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit Stool samples from a Dutch external quality assessment scheme for helminths

3. Comparative assessment of the effects of nucleic acid extraction applying the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit and a harsher bead beating-based nucleic extraction scheme on nonhelminth pathogens which might also be relevant in the medical routine diagnostic laboratory with: Historic residual stool samples which had been positive before in any bacteria real-time PCR after nucleic acid extraction using the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit Historic residual stool samples which had been positive before in any protozoa real-time PCR after nucleic acid extraction using the QiaAMP DNA Stool Mini Kit