Changes in substance P levels of inferior turbinate in patients with mucosal contact headache / Alterações nos níveis da substância P da concha inferior de pacientes com cefaleiapor ponto de contato da mucosa

Abstract Introduction Mucosal contact headache is a referred pain that arises from contact between the nasal septum and the lateral nasal wall. Evidence supports the role of substance P in a contact headache such that release of substance P from sensory nerve endings causes inflammation and allergy. Objectives This study aimed to determine possible differences in substance P levels in inferior turbinate hypertrophy creating a contact headache. Methods 28 patients who had contact headaches (study group) and 16 volunteers with no complaints were included in the study. Substance P levels in the inferior turbinate tissue samples were quantified using a commercially available substance P EIA kit. Results In the study group average substance P levels were 2.65 ± 0.27 pg/mg tissue (range: 0.61-5.44) and in the control group it was 1.77 ± 0.27 pg/mg tissue (range: 0.11-4.35). The difference was statistically significant between the two groups (p = 0.0215). Average preoperative headache group visual analog scale scores was 5.93 ± 0.38 (2-9) and the turbinate volume was 6.56 ± 0.35 cm3 (3.50-10.30). The control group turbinate volume was 4.71 ± 0.39 cm3 (2.50-7.70). We found a correlation between the visual analog scale scores and substance P levels such that substance P levels were higher in visual analog scale scores above 5 (p = 0.001). Conclusion This study demonstrates the relationship between intranasal contact headaches and increased mucosal substance P levels. We also found that there is no correlation with substance P levels and volume of the inferior turbinate.

Resumo Introdução A cefaleia por ponto de contato da mucosa é uma dor direcionada que surge do contato entre o septo nasal e a parede nasal lateral. Evidências corroboram o papel da substância P na cefaleia de contato, de tal forma que a liberação da mesma a partir de terminações nervosas sensoriais possa causar inflamação e alergia. Objetivo Determinar possíveis diferenças nos níveis da substância P na hipertrofia de conchas inferiores em relação à cefaleia de contato. Método Foram incluídos no estudo 28 pacientes que apresentaram cefaleia por ponto de contato (Grupo Estudo) e 16 voluntários sem queixas. Os níveis de substância P nas amostras de tecido da concha inferior foram quantificados com um kit substância P EIA, comercialmente disponível. Resultados No grupo do estudo, os níveis médios de substância P foram 2,65 ± 0,27 pg/mg de tecido (variação: 0,61-5,44) e no grupo controle foram de 1,77 ± 0,27 pg/mg de tecido (variação: 0,11-4,35) e a diferença foi estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos (p = 0,0215). O escore médio da escala visual analógica do grupo de cefaleia pré-operatória foi de 5,93 ± 0,38 (2-9) e o volume das conchas foi de 6,56 ± 0,35 cm3 (3,50-10,30). O volume da concha do grupo controle foi de 4,71 ± 0,39 cm3 (2,50 ± 7,70). Encontramos uma correlação entre o escore da escala visual analógica e os níveis de substância P, de modo que os níveis de substância P foram maiores nos escores da escala visual analógica acima de 5 (p = 0,001). Conclusão Este estudo demonstra a relação entre cefaleias por contato intranasais e níveis aumentados de substância P nas mucosas. Também observamos que não há correlação com os níveis de substância P e o volume da concha inferior.

Can Aspergillus fumigatus conidia cause false-positive results in the galactomannan enzyme immunoassay test?

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Several factors can cause false-positive results in the galactomannan (GM) test; however, others remain unknown. Presently, the impact of airborne contamination by Aspergillus conidia during enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) remains uninvestigated. METHODS: We studied 12 A. fumigatus isolates. Fungal conidia were serially diluted and tested for GM detection using the Platelia® Aspergillus enzyme immunoassay (EIA). RESULTS: The conidia concentration required for an EIA-positive result was 4.8 × 103 (median). CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to evaluate the impact of environmental contamination on the Platelia® Aspergillus EIA assay. Only massive contamination can interfere with GM optical readings, suggesting that environmental contamination does not cause false-positive test results.

Establishment of Jinzepaishi Granules fingerprint and evaluation of its anti-inflammatory activity for cyclooxygenase-2 / 中草药

Objective To establish HPLC fingerprints of Jinzepaishi Granules from ten different batches and a preliminary method for its anti-inflammatory biological activity titer detection, and construct a dose-effect relationship between cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and Jinzepaishi Granules for scientific evaluation and effective control of granules quality. Methods The HPLC method was used to analyze the similarity of common peaks in different batches of granules and assigned 19 common peaks to herbs. The fingerprints were further analyzed by the chemometric method of hierarchical clustering analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). The EIA method was used to determine the half-inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Jinzepaishi Granules. Results The similarity of HPLC fingerprints of all the ten batches was ≥ 0.955, which were consistent with the results of cluster analysis and PCA. Jinzepaishi Granules had a significant inhibitory effects on COX-2 with a IC50 of 10.272 mg/mL, which demonstrated a significant dose-effect relationship. Conclusion The multiple quality control system of chemical fingerprinting and biological activity detection has the characteristics of high efficiency, rapidness, accuracy, sensitivity, and good reproducibility. It can effectively evaluate the anti-inflammatory biological activity of Jinzepaishi Granules and achieve more scientific and reasonable control of its quality. It also provides a reference for the establishment of more scientific quality control for other Chinese materia medica preparations.

Equine infectious anemia in the western region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Anemia infecciosa equina na região oeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to characterize the outbreaks of equine infectious anemia (EIA) identified, between the years 2009 and 2015, in the western region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. We identified 26 positive horses on 24 properties. Each positive property was considered an outbreak of the disease. The diagnoses were made using the agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) test as a part of the sanitary checks conducted during animal transportation or certification of the horse´s sanitary status. The positive properties included farms or horse barns, and the infected animals were used for ranch work, sports, or reproduction. One outbreak was identified in animals that were being illegally transported from Argentina to Brazil. Fifteen outbreaks occurred on properties that were not registered with the Official Veterinary Service (OVS). Eleven outbreaks were identified in urban areas and 13 in rural areas. Twelve of the 24 outbreaks were diagnosed in 2015 alone, nine of which occurred in São Borja county. On two properties, a diagnosis could not be confirmed with a retest; therefore, these outbreaks were discharged. During sanitation checks on three properties, 12 additional positive animals were identified among a population of 1,108 susceptible animals. Based on these findings, we concluded that a subclinical form of the infection is present in that area, which is linked to properties that are not registered with the OVS, and that animals which are transported illegally across international borders represent a potential risk.

RESUMO: O objetivo do estudo foi caracterizar os focos de EIA identificados, entre 2009 e 2015, na região oeste do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Inicialmente foram identificados 26 equinos positivos em 24 propriedades, sendo que cada propriedade foi considerada um foco. Os diagnósticos foram realizados por imunodifusão em gel de ágar (AGID) na ocasião do transporte ou como medidas sanitárias, em casos de vínculo com animais infectados ou para fim de certificação do status sanitário. Um foco foi identificado em animais transportados ilegalmente da Argentina para o Brasil. Os estabelecimentos positivos eram fazendas ou estábulos e os animais infectados utilizados para trabalho, esporte ou reprodução. Quinze focos ocorreram em propriedades não cadastradas no SVO. Onze focos localizaram-se na zona urbana e 13 em propriedades rurais. Somente no ano de 2015 foram diagnosticados 12 dos 24 focos, sendo que no munícipio de São Borja ocorreram nove surtos neste período. Em duas propriedades o resultado inicial não foi confirmado no reteste, fazendo com que estes focos fossem encerrados imediatamente. Em três propriedades, durante o saneamento, identificou-se outros 12 animais positivos em três propriedades, de uma população de 1.108 susceptíveis. Assim sendo, pode-se concluir que a infecção que está presente na região, ocorre de maneira subclínica, associada a propriedades não cadastradas no SVO e animais transportados de forma ilegal, inclusive transporte internacional ilegal.

Situação epidemiológica da anemia infecciosa equina em equídeos de tração do Distrito Federal / Epidemiological status of equine infeccious anemia in working equidae from the Federal District, Brazil

A anemia infecciosa equina (AIE) é uma doença causada por um lentivirus que possui distribuição mundial. Essa enfermidade é um entrave ao desenvolvimento da equinocultura no Brasil devido à obrigatoriedade de eutanásia dos animais positivos. Este trabalho teve como objetivo estimar a prevalência de AIE em equídeos de tração no Distrito Federal, assim como identificar fatores de risco associados à doença. Foram sorteados aleatoriamente 350 proprietários (Unidades Primárias de Amostragem- UPA) e foram amostrados todos os equídeos (Unidades secundárias de Amostragem) de cada proprietário sorteado, totalizando 496 animais. As amostras sanguíneas foram analisadas no Lanagro/MG por meio da técnica de imunodifusão em ágar gel (IDGA). No momento da coleta de sangue, também foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico para a análise de possíveis fatores de risco. A prevalência de AIE nas UPA foi estimada em 2,29%, (IC 95%: 1,01-4,2%) e nos animais foi de 1,81% (IC 95%: 0,55-3,07%). A prevalência foi significativamente maior em muares do que em equinos. Não foi possível comprovar a presença de nenhum outro fator de risco associado à doença. Este estudo demonstra que a prevalência da AIE em equídeos de tração é baixa no Distrito Federal, porém mais alta do que os dados de vigilância de rotina sugerem, o que justifica a eutanásia dos equídeos reagentes, com a finalidade de promover a erradicação da enfermidade. Ratifica-se a importância da realização de exames periódicos nesses animais e a manutenção das atividades de vigilância.(AU)

Equine Infectious Anaemia (EIA) is a disease that has worldwide distribution and it is caused by a lentivirus. The disease constrains the development of horse breeding in Brazil, leading to compulsory slaughter of test positive animals. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of EIA in traction equids and identify potential risk factors in the Federal District. Three hundred and fifty (350) owners were randomly selected (Primary Sampling Units-PSU) and all equids (Secondary Sampling Units - SSU) from each owner were sampled, in a total of 496 animals. Blood samples were tested in LANAGRO/MG using the agar-gel immunodiffusion test (AGID). An epidemiological questionnaire was used to collect data on potential risk factors associated with the disease. The prevalence of PSU (owners) was estimated at 2.29% (95% CI: 1.01-4.2%) and the prevalence in animals was 1.81% (95% CI: 0.55-3.07%). Prevalence was higher in mules than in horses. None of the other variables analyzed as potential risk factors was associated to the presence of the disease. The present study demonstrated that the prevalence of EIA in traction equids is low in the Federal District, which strengthens the case for the maintaining the test-and-cull policy and the need for disease surveillance measures aimed at eradicating the disease.(AU)

Efectos negativos de los deportes acuáticos en el asma / Negative effects of water sports on asthma

El asma es una enfermedad crónica que consiste en la inflamación de las vías aéreas. Provoca tos, dolores de pecho y problemas para respirar. El asma todavía no tiene cura, pero sí es posible controlarlo. Aunque hay muchos estudios que hablan de los beneficios de la práctica deportiva en los pacientes asmáticos, este artículo de revisión expone que la actividad física, dependiendo de cuál sea la realizada y las condiciones en las que se realiza, puede tener efectos perjudiciales para los asmáticos. De hecho, la práctica de actividad física puede provocar por sí misma asma, es el denominado asma inducido por el ejercicio o AIE.

Asthma is a chronic disease that consists of inflammation of the airways. It causes coughs, chest pains and trouble breathing. Asthma still has no cure, but it is possible to control it. Although there are many studies that discuss the benefits of sports practice in asthmatic patients, this review article states that physical activity, depending on what is performed and the conditions under which it is performed, may have adverse effects for asthmatics. In fact, the practice of physical activity can cause asthma in itself, is the so-called exercise-induced asthma or EIA.

Comparison of different detection methods of monkey B virus antibody / 中国比较医学杂志

Objective Monkey B virus(BV), also known as Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1,is an important zoonotic pathogen.According to the national standard, antibodies are detected using BV as an antigen.However, the preparation of BV antigen is very stricted due to biosafety issues.Therefore, in this study, we used alternative antigens to detect the BV antibody by serological assay and verified their specifity and sensitivity.Methods A total of 135 blood samples from rhesus monkeys were tested by two ELISA method (BV and HVP2) and enzyme immunosorbent assay (EIA)method.The positive and suspicious samples were verified by immuno-fluorescence assay (IFA), Western blot and immunoblotting technique using HSV-1 gC1 purified glycoprotein as an antigen.Results The positive rates of HVP2-ELISA, BV-ELISA and HSV-1-EIA were 32.6%, 37.8% and 34.8%, respectively.Consistant result of the three detection method accounted for 91.1% (123/135), and the positive result were confirmed by IFA And WB.There were 12 suspicious samples,in which 33.3% (4/12) were verified to be positive.Conclusions Compared with BV antigen, the sensitivity and specificity of the alternative antigen HSV-1 are moe close than HVP2.Positive and suspicious samples should be verified by several method to avoid missed detection.

Comparing the differences between domestic and imported EIA-HIV screening results for voluntary blood donors / 中国输血杂志

Objective To compare the differences of two kinds of EIA reagents for HIV-1/2 (Ab/Ag) screening results of voluntary blood donors,in addition to find out the feasibility of reducing 1 times of EIA detection.Methods To collect data of HIV 1/2 screening positive results and confirmatory test for voluntary blood donors from 2009 to 2014 in Jiaxing area,and to compare the relationship of screeing test results with that of the confirmatory test,and then to analyze the relevance between S/CO values of screening test and confirmatory test.Results Screening positive rates of domestic and imported reagents,which were 9.58/10 000 and 12.43/10 000,respectively;and the confirmatory coincidence rates were 11.84％ and 9.12％,respectively.There was no significant difference (x2 =1.11,P＞0.05).The double-reagent joint detection positive rate was 1.37/10 000,and its positive predictive value was 82.86％.Single-reagent test result compared with that of double-reagent test,which had significant differences (x2domestic =94.04,P＜0.05 and x2ximported =124.86,P＜0.05).When the S/CO value was more than 6,domestic and imported reagents positive predictive values were 93.55％ (29/31) and 87.50％ (28/32),respectively.Conclusion There is no difference between domestic and imported reagents EIA-HIV1/2.

Clinical profile and follow-up of HIV infection in pediatric age group beyond 18 months up to 13 years at tertiary level hospital

Background: An increasing number of HIV infected children have been reported as spread of HIV in adults are showing increasing trend in India. We reported the clinical manifestation, laboratory parameters and follow up of these children. Aim: To study the clinical profile follow up of paediatric patients admitted with HIV in the age gruop18 months to 13 years for a period of 1 year. Materials and methods: This Prospective study was conducted at tertiary care centre at Gandhi Hospital in association with ART centre, Ganhi Hospital, Secunderabad over a period of one year (January 2013 - December 2013). Over 100 consecutive patients suspected and later confirmed by TRIDOT & HIV EIA COOMB were included in the study after obtaining written consent from guardian of the patients. A detailed history, thorough clinical examination and laboratory investigations were carried out. ART & ATT therapy were given according to guidelines and followed up. Results: Of the 100 cases, 55 were males and 45 were females. Immunization status of these children included 20%completely immunised, 52% partially immunized and unknown in 28. Clinical manifestation like, anemia was seen in 95 cases, 91 cases had PEM with 47.25% were in gr 4, PGL (38), fever (36), respiratory (28), diarrhoea (15). Less commonly seen were CNS and chronic Gummadivandanaushasree, Sreenivasaiah Bharathi, Jampalavenkateshwar Rao. Clinical profile and follow-up of HIV infection in pediatric age group beyond 18 months up to 13 years at tertiary level hospital. IAIM, 2016; 3(10): 125-138. Page 126 ottorhea. Most common opportunistic infections were tuberculosis (16) and candidiasis (16) with giardiasis (3) and herpes zoster (2). Of the 100 cases enrolled, 11 were lost to follow up and 3cases died. Mean weight gain after 6 months 1.6 SD and 2.8 SD at 12 months. On laboratory investigations 95 cases had Hb <2SD, 21 had mantoux positive (>5 mm), abnormal chest X-ray in 23 cases. Conclusion: Most children were in the age group of 1-5 years with mean age of presentation of 5.5 years. Mild bias towards male patients is noted. Perinatal mode is the only mode of transmission, no other modes noted. Most of the children presented to us in a partially immunized status and others’ status was not known. Common presentations - PEM, anemia, skin manifestations, nutritional deficiencies, prolonged fever, systemic manifestations – PGL; respiratory infections like pneumonia, TB; chronic diarrhoea. CNS manifestations were uncommon and renal problems, malignancies were not noted in our study. Amongst opportunistic infections, TB involving various organs and candidiasis were seen in maximum number of patients. Our study concluded that administration of nevirapine based ART regimes for HIV-1 infected children is feasible in resource limited settings. There was improvement in growth parameters with the use of this therapy and prevention of deterioration in immune status.

Prevalence of Norovirus and epidemiology of acute gastroenteritis in children

Pediatric gastroenteritis is a major cause of childhood mortality and morbidity worldwide, especially in developing countries. Diarrhoea can be caused by a variety of different pathogens including bacteria, viruses and parasites. Among the viruses; Rotavirus has been extensively studied and is responsible for 44% of GE cases. As the Rotavirus vaccination coverage improves, the causative agent’s shift may be more towards the Calciviruses (Norovirus, Sappovirus) and other similar viruses, and consequently the investigations should focus on these viruses in future. This study was conducted in a Teaching hospital, Hyderabad, Telangana State included 118 cases of Gastroenteritis of which 6 cases were positive for Norovirus (NoV) i.e.; 5% of cases were NoV positive by RIDASCREEN EIA and RIDA QUICK, the rapid test for NoV virus. These 6 cases were children between 7 months and one and half year old. The age profile showed a fall in the number of diarrhoea cases as the child’s age increases. 63 (53.3%) were male children and 55 (46.6%) were female children. In children < 2 years (n=83), 22 (26.5%) were breast fed, 30 (36.1%) were bottle fed and 7 (8.4%) were on mixed Alimelu M, Radha Mohan M., Vindhya Tuladi, Sudhershan Reddy P, Shailaja V.V., Preeti Nagaraj G. Prevalence of Norovirus and epidemiology of acute gastroenteritis in children. IAIM, 2016; 3(6): 157-163. Page 158 feeds. Among mothers 25.42% never washed their hands with soap, 60.16% used soap occasionally and only 14.4% always used soap. 43.2 % presented with no dehydration, 27.96% presented with some dehydration and 28.8% presented with severe dehydration. 70.3% of mothers continued to feed during diarrhoea. Regarding the treatment used for diarrhoea before admission in hospital, 42.37% used ORS, 27.11% used both ORS and antibiotics, 55.08% were on antibiotics and 11% took no treatment at all.

Equine infectious anemia on Marajo Island at the mouth of the Amazon river / Anemia infecciosa equina na Ilha de Marajó na foz do Rio Amazonas

Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is a transmissible and incurable disease caused by a lentivirus, the equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). There are no reports in the literature of this infection in Equidae on Marajo Island. The objective of this study was to diagnose the disease in the municipalities of Cachoeira do Arari, Salvaterra, Santa Cruz do Arari and Soure, on Marajó Island, state of Pará, Brazil. For serological survey samples were collected from 294 horses, over 5-month-old, males and females of puruca and marajoara breeds and from some half-breeds, which were tested by immunodiffusion in Agar gel (AGID). A prevalence of 46.26% (136/294) positive cases was found. EIA is considered endemic in the municipalities studied, due to the ecology of the region with a high numbered population of bloodsucking insect vectors and the absence of official measures for the control of the disease...

A anemia infecciosa equina (EIA) é uma importante enfermidade, transmissível e incurável causada por um lentivírus, equine infectious anemia vírus (EIAV), e não há relatos na literatura desta infecção em equinos da Ilha de Marajó. O objetivo deste estudo foi diagnosticar a anemia infecciosa equina nos municípios de Cachoeira do Arari, Salvaterra, Santa Cruz do Arari e Soure, Ilha de Marajó, no bioma amazônico do estado do Pará, Brasil. Para a pesquisa sorológica foram coletadas 294 amostras de animais da espécie equina, acima de cinco meses de idade, de ambos os sexos, das raças puruca, marajoara e de mestiços, testadas pela imunodifusão em gel de Agar (IDGA). Foi verificada uma prevalência de 46.26% (136/294) de casos positivos para EIA. A doença é considerada endêmica nos municípios estudados, tanto pelos aspectos ecológicos da região que propiciam a manutenção da população de insetos hematófagos vetores, quanto pela ausência de medidas oficiais de controle da doença...

Anemia infecciosa equina: Una revisión / Equine infectious anemia: A review

La Anemia Infecciosa Equina (en ingles Equine Infectious Anemia EIA), es una enfermedad viral que afecta a los équidos a nivel mundial. El agente causal, pertenece al género Lentivirus, de la familia Retroviridae, subfamilia Orthoretrovirinae. La enfermedad se caracteriza por episodios febriles recurrentes, trombocitopenia, anemia, pérdida de peso y edema de las partes bajas del cuerpo; si no se produce la muerte en el curso de los ataques clínicos agudos, se produce una fase crónica y la enfermedad tiende a convertirse en latente. La AIE debe notificarse ante la OIE: Organización Mundial de Sanidad Animal. En 2015 la OIE mediante Código Sanitario para los Animales Terrestres se estableció a la Anemia Infecciosa Equina en la lista única de enfermedades e infecciones de los équidos. Los veterinarios que detecten un caso de anemia infecciosa equina deben seguir las pautas nacionales y/o locales para la notificación y las pruebas de diagnóstico correspondientes. Este artículo describe los aspectos más relevantes de la Anemia Infecciosa Equina.

Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) is a viral disease that affects horses worldwide. The causative agent belongs to the genus Lentivirus, the family Retroviridae, subfamily Orthoretrovirinae. The disease is characterized by recurrent episodes of fever, thrombocytopenia, anemia, weight loss and edema of the lower parts of the body; if death does not occur in the course of the acute clinical attacks, a chronic stage occurs and the disease tends to become dormant. The IEA must be reported to the OIE: World Organization for Animal Health. In 2015 by Health Code OIE Terrestrial Animal it was established Equine Infectious Anemia in the single list of diseases and infections of horses. Veterinarians detected a case of equine infectious anemia should follow national and / or local to the notification and guidelines appropriate diagnostic tests. This article describes the most relevant aspects of the Equine Infectious Anemia.

Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment Studies of Mining Activities in Chittorgarh District, Rajasthan.

Mining exerts pressure on environment at many stages i.e. exploration, extraction, processing, and post closer operations. Hence mining operations necessarily involves deforestation, habitat destruction and biodiversity erosion, change of landscape, displacement of human settlement, flora and fauna of the area, surface drainage, and change in air, water and soil quality. While for the purpose of development and economic upliftment of people, there is a need for establishment of industrial project, but these have to be environmentally friendly. Therefore it is essential to assess the impacts of mining on different environmental parameters, before starting the mining operations, so that abatement measures could be planned in advance for eco-friendly mining in the area. Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a systematic process that examines the environmental consequences of development action like mining, transport, river valley. EIA systematically examines both beneficial and adverse consequences of the proposed project and ensures that these impacts are taken into account during the project design.

Enteric Adenovirus and Norovirus Gastroenteritis among Under-5 years Children in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria.

Aim: Infant mortality attributable to diarrhea continue unabated, without the precise determination of the viral etiologies. Few studies exist on enteric adenoviruses and norovirus infections in infants and young children in Nigeria. This study was aimed at the detection and determination of the baseline prevalence of enteric adenoviruses and norovirus pathogens among under -5 years children hospitalized for acute diarrhea in Ondo state, Nigeria. Methods: In a cross sectional descriptive study conducted between November 2013 and April 2014, fifty (50) fecal specimens collected from diarrheic children below 5 years and age matched non-diarrheic controls were screened for the presence of enteric adenovirus and norovirus antigens using a 4th generation quadruple Rapid Immuno- chromatographic Enzyme Immuno Assay kits. Results: Adenovirus antigen was detected in 9/50 (18%) in November 2013, and February to April 2014 while norovirus was found in 4/50 (8%) of the diarrheic children, in the months of December 2013 to February 2014. The prevalent age at infection were 0-6 months for adenovirus and 31-36 months for norovirus, while the male-to-female ratio was 1.8:1. Co-infection of adenovirus with rotavirus was detected in children between 7-12 months, while co-infection of adenovirus with norovirus was detected in children between 31-36 months old at a rate of 2% respectively. There was no significant difference in the induction of diarrhea in children by each of the two viruses (χ2=1.78), and no significant difference in the rate of adenovirus (χ2=0.605) and norovirus infections (χ2 =1.09) between male and female, in the study population. Conclusion: The baseline prevalence of enteric adenovirus diarrhea was 18% (occurring in November, February to April), norovirus was 8% (occurring in December to February), dual infection by adenovirus cum rotavirus, and adenovirus cum norovirus was 2% respectively, in children below 3 years in Ondo state Nigeria. The findings suggests that human enteric adenoviruses and norovirus are becoming established etiologies of infantile diarrhea in southwest Nigeria, and vaccines should be developed and vaccination implemented alongside rotavirus.

Analysis of ImmunoCAP(R) ISAC Results of Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Patients: Comparison with Skin Prick and the MAST-EIA Tests / 대한피부과학회지

BACKGROUND: In vivo and/or in vitro diagnostic tests to identify possible allergens have been conducted for patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in order to identify any predisposing factors and avoid unnecessary restrictions. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic effectiveness of ImmunoCAP(R) ISAC (ISAC) in CSU patients. METHODS: A total of 31 patients with CSU were tested by ISAC and Multiple Allergen Simultaneous Test enzyme immunoassays (MAST-EIA). A skin prick test (SPT) was performed for 17 out of 31 patients. The results of ISAC and MAST-EIA were evaluated based on the SPT results. RESULTS: For 17 patients, with SPT used as the reference standard, ISAC compared with MAST-EIA showed lower sensitivity (22.2% vs. 26.5%), higher specificity (100% vs. 95.7%), higher positive predictive value (100% vs. 52.9%), and lower negative predictive value (86.9% vs. 87.7%). The agreement rate was more favorable for ISAC than for MAST-EIA (87.3% vs. 85.1%; kappa=0.324 vs. 0.263). For 31 patients, the agreement rate between ISAC and MAST-EIA was 83.9% for both Dermatophagoides farinae and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. Correlation coefficients (Rho) between ISAC and MAST-EIA for each allergen were 0.690 and 0.675, respectively. CONCLUSION: For CSU patients, specificity, positive predictive value, and the agreement rate of ISAC were similar or superior to those of MAST-EIA. In addition, ISAC provides valuable information on the possible sensitization to different allergen sources by elucidating cross-reactive components. With careful clinical correlations in interpretation, ISAC can be a useful diagnostic tool to detect allergens in CSU patients.

Comparison of Two Commercial Screening Kits for Detection of Anti-HCV Antibody among Adult Patients in Osogbo, Nigeria.

Aims: A commercial rapid test kit for anti-Hepatitis C Virus (anti-HCV) detection was evaluated and compared for diagnosis of hepatitis C by detection of immunoglobulin G(IgG) antibodies against a third generation Enzyme Immunoassay(EIA) as gold standard. Methodology: A total of 560 patient serum samples were subjected to rapid screening with rapid test (immunochromatographic) strip supplied by Global Diagnostics and commercially prepared IgG capture EIA by DIA.PRO, Italy. Results: Of the 560 samples, anti HCV was detected in 31(5.54%) by ELISA, whereas only 17(3.04%) by strip method. This gives 100% specificity as no false positive was observed, but with 68.8% sensitivity. The number of false negative results was 14. The positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 97.42% respectively. Conclusion: The result pattern shows that sensitivity is compromised. It is therefore recommended that third generation ELISA is used for blood donors screening, to reduce transmission of hepatitis C virus through blood transfusion. When need arises to use strip for anti-HCV testing, such strip should be validated locally before its adoption because kits are directed against known range of strains of HCV and have minimum titer of antibody below which detection becomes impossible.

Comparison of three laboratorial tests for diagnosis of canine parvovirus infection / Comparação de três testes laboratoriais para diagnóstico da infecção pelo parvovírus canino

The aim of this study was to evaluate the rapid tests currently used for canine parvovirus (CPV) diagnosis: hemagglutination test (HA), enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A total of 112 fecal samples collected from diarrheic puppies up to one year of age were tested. The EIA was able to detect CPV antigen in 44 samples. By HA, 32 samples tested highly positive with titers >128, eight tested weakly positive (titers 32 and 64) and 72 were negative (titers <16). Using PCR, 57 samples were found positive including 13 EIA-negative and 19 HA-negative samples. The best correlation was observed between EIA and PCR (88.4%). These tests were able to detect all types of CPV, including CPV-2c. Considering that 23%-33% of dogs presenting enteritis did not show infection by EIA nor HA, negative results from the antigen detection tests should be confirmed through molecular methods.

Avaliaram-se os métodos rápidos rotineiramente utilizados para diagnóstico da infecção por parvovírus canino (CPV): teste de hemaglutinação (HA), ensaio imunoenzimático (EIE) e reação em cadeia pela polimerase (PCR). Um total de 112 amostras fecais de cães diarreicos com até um ano de idade foi testado. O EIE foi capaz de detectar o antígeno do CPV em 44 amostras. Por HA, 32 amostras foram consideradas fortemente positivas com títulos >128, oito fracamente positivas (títulos 32 e 64) e 72 negativas (títulos <16). Por PCR, 57 amostras foram positivas incluindo 13 EIE-negativas e 19 HA-negativas. A melhor correlação foi observada entre EIE e PCR (88,4%). Os testes foram capazes de detectar todos os tipos de CPV, incluindo o CPV-2c. Considerando-se que em 23%-33% dos filhotes com enterite a infecção por CPV não foi diagnosticada pelos testes de EIE e HA, os resultados negativos nos testes de detecção de antígeno devem ser confirmados por meio de métodos moleculares.

Using enzyme immunoassay to assess the prevalence of helicobacter pylori IgG in saliva and blood plasma

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) are gram negative bacteria that are strongly associated with gastro-duodenal disorders and some extra-intestinal manifestations, such as chronic bacterial infection. Dental plaque has been implicated as possible reservoir for H. pylori in individuals with and without gastric or duodenal disorders. Early detection and management of H. pylori can effectively reduce the prevalence of their pathologic effects and frequency of transmission. Non-invasive and inexpensive methods for detection of H. pylori can be used for screening of those at risk in the population. The major objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of H. pylori in saliva and plasma samples of residents in the National Capital District, Papua New Guinea. Subjects for this prospective cross-section study were selected from patients and their relatives attending dental clinics in Port Moresby General Hospital and St John’s Hospital Gerehu. Saliva and blood samples were collected from randomly selected subjects after obtaining their signed informed consent. Solid phase Enzyme-Immuno-Assay (EIA) commercial kits were used for the estimation of IgG antibodies against H. pylori in human saliva and plasma. The guidelines and cut-off index indicated by the manufacture of the EIA kits were used for interpretation of the data. The results indicated that of the 204 saliva samples 183 (89.7%) were negative, 15 (7.4%) were equivocal and 6 (2.9%) were positive for H. pylori IgG. Subjects in the 40 – 49yrs age group had the highest positive (2.0%) prevalence for H. pylori IgG. Results obtained for 44 plasma samples collected, indicated that 19 (43.2%) were negative, 11 (25.0%) were equivocal and 14 (31.8%) were positive for H. pylori IgG. Comparison of the data indicated statistically significant difference (p = 0.01) between the results obtained for the plasma and corresponding saliva samples. A statistically significant positive linear correlation was obtained between the H. pylori IgG in saliva and plasma samples (Spearman ρ = 0.514, p = 0.01). The results indicated higher sensitivity of EIA in detecting H. pylori IgG in plasma compared to saliva samples.

A ictiofauna da bacia do rio Tibagi e o projeto de construção da UHE Mauá, Paraná, Brasil / The fish fauna of Tibagi river basin and the construction project of Mauá hydroelectric plant, Paraná, Brazil

A construção da hidrelétrica Mauá foi projetada no médio rio Tibagi, Paraná, local identificado pelo Ministério do Meio Ambiente (MMA) como área prioritária para a conservação. Os estudos de impactos ambientais, para as espécies de peixes, foram considerados incompletos, inconsistentes e inválidos pelos pesquisadores da Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Assim, com o objetivo de verificar quais espécies de peixes ocorrem em trechos do rio Tibagi e em um afluente ameaçado pelo projeto, o rio Barra Grande, comparou-se a lista de espécies que constam nos relatórios (EIA/RIMA) com espécies coletadas neste estudo e com a literatura. Nos relatórios EIA/RIMA foram registradas 125 espécies de peixes. Este estudo acrescentou mais 26 espécies, além das registradas no EIA/RIMA, totalizando 151 espécies, para a bacia do rio Tibagi. Dentre as que não constavam no EIA, cinco foram coletadas em trechos do rio Tibagi e duas no rio Barra Grande. As demais são provenientes de estudos atuais realizados na região média e alta do rio Tibagi. Estes resultados confirmaram as falhas apresentadas no EIA, destacando ainda, que várias espécies podem ser novas para a ciência. Portanto, os estudos apresentados pela CNEC S.A., aprovados pelo Instituto Ambiental do Paraná (IAP), não servem de base para propor ações mitigadoras para as espécies de peixes que poderão ser afetadas pelo projeto de construção da barragem da usina hidrelétrica Mauá na bacia do rio Tibagi.

The middle stretch of Tibagi river basin in the State of Paraná, where the hydroelectric plant of Mauá is planned to be constructed, was considered by the Ministério do Meio Ambiente (MMA) as an area of priority for conservation. The environmental impacts studies for the species of fish were considered incomplete, inconsistent and not valid by researchers from the Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Thus, with the purpose of verifying which species of fish occur in stretches of Tibagi river and an affluent threatened by the project, Barra Grande river, a list of species that appear on the reports (EIA/RIMA) with species collected in this study and in literature, were compared. In the EIA/RIMA reports 125 fish species were registered. This study added 26 species than those recorded in the EIA, totaling 151 species, for the Tibagi river basin. Among those who did not appear in the EIA, five were collected in stretches of Tibagi river and two in Barra Grande river. The others are from current studies carried out in the middle and upper regions of Tibagi river. These results confirmed the errors presented in the EIA, emphasizing that several species can be new for science. Therefore, the studies presented in the by the CNEC S.A., and approved by Instituto Ambiental do Paraná (IAP), do not support propositions drawn to weaken the effects of the Mauá dam over the fish species that could be attained.

New fluorimetric assay of horseradish peroxidase using sesamol as substrate and its application to EIA / 药物分析学报

Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) is generally used as a label enzyme in enzyme immunoassay (EIA).The procedure used for HRP detection in EIA is critical for sensitivity and precision.This paper describes a novel fluorimetric assay for horseradish peroxidase (HRP) using sesamol as substrate.The principle of the assay is as follow:sesamol (3,4-methylenedioxy phenol) is reacted enzymatically in the presence of hydrogen peroxide to produce dimeric sesamol.The dimer is fluorescent and can be detected sensitively at ex.347 nm,em.427 nm.The measurable range of HRP was 1.0 × 10-18 to 1.0 × 10-15 mol/assay,with a detection limit of 1.0 × 10-18 tmol/assay.The coefficient of variation (CV,n=8) was examined at each point on the standard curve,with a mean CV percentage of 3.8％.This assay system was applied to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) EIA using HRP as the label enzyme.