Implementation of real-time RT-PCR for detection of human metapneumovirus and its comparison with enzyme immunoassay.

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is responsible for outbreaks of bronchiolitis in winter and early spring in young children. Due to the relatively recent discovery of hMPV, the diagnostic opportunities are limited, while differential diagnosis with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains important. We validated the RT-PCR by comparing various methods of RNA extraction, one-step RT-PCR kits and primer-probe combinations. The optimized RT-PCR was evaluated using 47 nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPAs) collected from children younger than 5 years, with clinically suspected RSV infection. The evaluated RT-PCRs were also compared to a commercially available hMPV enzyme immunoassay (EIA). We found 8.5% hMPV positivity with both RT-PCRs, in agreement with published literature. hMPV EIA showed positive and indeterminate results in 17% and 8.5%, respectively, of the tested NPAs. Positive RT-PCR samples were positive or indeterminate by hMPV EIA. Samples that were positive for RSV and influenza A virus interfered with the hMPV EIA. In conclusion, although RT-PCR is already a valuable tool for diagnosing hMPV infections, further optimization of the RT-PCR method is recommended. The hMPV EIA kit shows poor specificity and therefore needs further improvement.

Isolated abducens nerve palsy after closed head trauma: a pediatric case report.

Cranial nerve lessions often accompany head trauma. Nevertheless, isolated involvement of the sixth nerve without any cranial or cervical fracture is rare. Nerve injury could occur at the sites of the dural entry points and at the petrous apex during down- or upward movement of the brain caused by violent linear force to the head. Management is symptomatic. Most cases improve within three months and many resolve by six months, but spontaneous recovery does not always occur. We describe the case of a 13-year-old boy who developed isolated abducens nerve palsy after closed head trauma.

Internships for women in higher education administration: springboards for success?

Administrative positions within higher education have been very homogeneous, reflecting an institutional culture in which males prevail. In an attempt to encourage women to consider alternatives in administrative positions, internship programs were developed to provide women with opportunities and a mechanism for career advancement. The purpose of this case study was to examine what women did as a result of participating in such an administrative internship program over a ten year time period at a comprehensive university. Interview data yielded consistent results that support existing literature about women in higher education. Trends were identified and recommendations suggested for encouraging more diversity within administrative positions in higher educational institutions. The findings of this study confirm the need for mentoring relationships for women in administrative positions.