bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute hemicerebellitis in a pediatric patient: a case report of a serial MR spectroscopy study
Authors: Tomiyasu Moyoko , Aida Noriko , Mitani Tadahiro , Wada Takahito , Obata Takayuki , Osaka Hitoshi
Published: December 2011

The changes in the signals for brain metabolites in the left cerebellum of a 14-year-old boy with acute hemicerebellitis were monitored using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). From the onset of disease treatment to long-term follow-up, MRS data were serially acquired from the left and right cerebella, basal ganglia (BG), and centrum semiovale (CS). Large fluctuations in his MRS signals were observed in the left cerebellum. At onset (first day), his glutamate/glutamine complex signals were increased (>mean ± 2 standard deviations [SD] of the control), and those for N-acetylaspartate/N-acetylaspartylglutamate and myo-inositol were decreased (<2SD). By the 25th day, these signals had recovered to normal levels, while those for choline (Cho) were increased. In other locations, the signals for mIns in the BG and Cho in the CS were decreased on the seventh day. By the 201st day, the levels of all metabolites in all locations had recovered to within ± 2SD of the control levels. In vivo proton MRS monitoring demonstrated reversible metabolite changes associated with acute hemicerebellitis, which should contribute to its differential diagnosis from brain tumors.
The maturation of grafted bone after posterior lumbar interbody fusion with an interbody carbon cage
Authors: Kanemura T. , Ishikawa Y. , Matsumoto A. , Yoshida G. , Sakai Y. , Itoh Z. , Imagama S. , Kawakami N.
Published: December 2011

We evaluated the maturation of grafted bone in cases of successful fusion after a one- or two-level posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) using interbody carbon cages. We carried out a five-year prospective longitudinal radiological evaluation of patients using plain radiographs and CT scans. One year after surgery, 117 patients with an early successful fusion were selected for inclusion in the study. Radiological evaluation of interbody bone fusion was graded on a 4-point scale. The mean grades of all radiological and CT assessments increased in the five years after surgery, and differences compared to the previous time interval were statistically significant for three or four years after surgery. Because the grafted bone continues to mature for three years after surgery, the success of a fusion should not be assessed until at least three years have elapsed. There were no significant differences in the longitudinal patterns of grafted bone maturity between iliac bone and local bone. However, iliac bone grafting may remodel faster than local bone.
Are current thrombo-embolic prophylaxis guidelines applicable to unicompartmental knee replacement?
Authors: Willis-Owen C. A. , Sarraf K. M. , Martin A. E. , Martin D. K.
Published: December 2011

Symptomatic and asymptomatic deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common complication of knee replacement, with an incidence of up to 85% in the absence of prophylaxis. National guidelines for thromboprophylaxis in knee replacement are derived from total knee replacement (TKR) data. No guidelines exist specific to unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). We investigated whether the type of knee arthroplasty (TKR or UKR) was related to the incidence of DVT and discuss the applicability of existing national guidelines for prophylaxis following UKR.

Data were collected prospectively on 3449 knee replacements, including procedure type, tourniquet time, surgeon, patient age, use of drains and gender. These variables were related to the incidence of symptomatic DVT.

The overall DVT rate was 1.6%. The only variable that had an association with DVT was operation type, with TKR having a higher incidence than UKR (2.2% versus 0.3%, p < 0.001). These data show that the incidence of DVT after UKR is both clinically and statistically significantly lower than that after TKR.

TKR and UKR patients have different risk profiles for symptomatic DVT. The risk-benefit ratio for TKR that has been used to produce national guidelines may not be applicable to UKR. Further research is required to establish the most appropriate form of prophylaxis for UKR.
Exam Corner – December 2011
Authors: Khanduja V.
Published: December 2011

The FRCS (Tr & Orth) examination has three components: MCQs, Vivas and Clinical Examination. The Vivas are further divided into four sections comprising Basic Science, Adult Pathology, Hands and Children’s Orthopaedics and Trauma. The Clinical Examination section is divided into Upper and Lower limb cases. The aim of this section in the Journal is to focus specifically on the trainees preparing for the exam and to cater to all the sections of the exam. The vision is to complete the cycle of all relevant exam topics (as per the syllabus) in four years.
Coping Strategies and Perceived Stress in Pregnant Smokers Seeking Help for Cessation
Authors: Varescon Isabelle , Leignel Shirley , Poulain Xavier , Gerard Caroline
Published: December 2011

Despite substantial efforts to decrease its prevalence, it is estimated that more than 20% of French women continue to smoke during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess the perceived stress and coping strategies used by pregnant smokers when they seek help to stop smoking. Eighty pregnant women were involved. Pregnant women who stated their intention to quit smoking (n= 40) were compared with pregnant nonsmokers (n= 40). All participants filled out the Brief Cope (BC), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS). In addition to these self-report scales, pregnant smokers completed the Fagerström Tolerance Questionnaire (FTQ). The results show that pregnant women who smoked used less active coping, planning, and positive framing, considered a good adaptive strength, and had significantly elevated scores on perceived stress and anxiety scales than nonsmokers. This research is the first to provide Brief Cope results for pregnant smokers seeking help to stop smoking linked to perceived stress. The results obtained contribute to the well-known psychosocial factors in maintaining smoking during pregnancy and will be used in the implementation of more effective intervention programs among pregnant women.
Development of a Proposed ASTM Guide to Continued Applicability of Reports on Fire Test Standards
Authors: Earl Timothy T. , Hirschler Marcelo M.
Published: December 2011

Fire test reports provide information relative to the fire-test-response characteristics of a material, product, or assembly at the time when it was tested and to the evaluative approach of the fire test used, including understanding of the fire test that was used. Such fire test reports remain valid for the particular point in time at which the fire test was conducted, as long as the test was conducted in full accordance with the fire test standard referenced in the test report. However, fire test reports may, at some time, cease being applicable to the material, product, or assembly currently being offered for use; for example, if there has been a technical change in the fire test protocol or if there has been a substantial change in the material, product, or assembly being offered for use. The ASTM Committee E05, and subcommittee E05.31 on Terminology and Services/Functions, is considering the development of an ASTM Guide to formalize the above ideas. The draft ASTM guide contains concepts which provide guidance for assessing the continued applicability of fire test reports. The concepts in the draft guide are intended for application by users of fire test reports to assess whether a particular fire test report continues to be an applicable representation of the fire-test-response characteristics of a material, product, or assembly which is required to be tested for a new assessment using the same fire test standard. The continued applicability of the fire test report will be a function primarily of two issues: (a) whether the material, product or assembly being offered for use is substantially the same as the one that was tested and (b) whether the test method being required is substantially the same as the test that was conducted for the report in question. Some concepts included in the draft guide may be a function of the type of fire test conducted and of the type of material, product, or assembly assessed. The draft guide considers in a separate category materials, products or assemblies listed by an accredited listing agency.
To vše na území malého Česka. Kulturspezifische Selbst- und Fremdstilisierungen im tschechischen Windkraftdiskurs
Authors: Kreß Beatrix
Published: December 2011

In the present paper, I investigate the roles people refer to in political debates by using certain linguistic devices. As in theatre, the participants try to stage themselves, but also attribute a certain role to their adversary. This role-management can be captured by the notion of linguistic style. As a showcase this paper focuses on the ecological debate about wind farms in the Czech Republic. It will be shown that this argument is characterized by typical universal style devices which can be found in these debates in general. However, it can be observed that the Czech president Václav Klaus, who plays a very active role in the ecological debate of his country, has a distinct influence. Furthermore, there are certain argumentation styles which seem to be culturally specific.
Puškin trifft Griboedov auf der „Reise nach Arzrum“
Authors: Kośny Witold
Published: December 2011

In “A Journey to Erzerum” (1836), a literary account of the Caucasian travel in 1829, A. S. Pushkin describes the encounter with the coffin of A. S. Griboyedov, murdered by Persian mob in Tehran. In a personal reminiscence he gives – opposite to F. V. Bulgarin’s panegyric and sentimental “Memories of the unforgettable A. S. Griboyedov” (1830) – a realistic and empathical sketch of the ups and downs in the poet’s life. Griboyedov got the option to accept or to refuse the patronage of the powerful; his decision to accept the tsar’s proposal was disastrous. Pushkin regards the vita brevis of his namesake as an example ex negativo, because “independence and self-esteem alone can lift us [writers] above the trifles and the storms of fate.”
Expression of mesenchymal-related genes by the bovine trophectoderm following conceptus attachment to the endometrial epithelium
Authors: Yamakoshi Sachiko , Bai Rulan , Chaen Takashi , Ideta Atsushi , Aoyagi Yoshito , Sakurai Toshihiro , Konno Toshihiro , Imakawa Kazuhiko
Published: December 2011

In the course of experiments to identify and characterize the factors that function in bovine conceptuses during peri-attachment periods, various transcripts related to the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) were found. In this study, RNA was extracted from different sets of days 17, 20, and 22 (day 0=day of estrous) bovine conceptuses and subjected to real-time PCR analysis as well as Western blotting, from which abundances of N-cadherin (CDH2), vimentin, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (gelatinase A, 72 kDa gelatinase, 72 kDa type IV collagenase) (MMP2), and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (gelatinase B, 92 kDa gelatinase, 92 kDa type IV collagenase) (MMP9) mRNAs were determined on day 22, concurrent with (CDH1) mRNA and protein downregulation. Transcription factors in EMT processes were then analyzed and changes in snail homolog 2 (Drosophila) (SNAI), zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 (ZEB2), twist homolog 1 (Drosophila) (TWIST1), twist homolog 2 (Drosophila) (TWIST2), and Kruppel-like factor 8 (KLF8) transcripts were found in day 22 conceptuses, while confirmingSNAI2expression by Western blotting. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the day 22 trophectoderm expressed the mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and vimentin as well as the epithelial marker cytokeratin. In attempts to identify the molecular mechanisms by which the trophectoderm expressed EMT-related genes, growth factor receptors associated with EMT were analyzed. Upregulation of the growth factor receptor transcripts, fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1), platelet-derived growth factor receptor, alpha polypeptide (PDGFRA), platelet-derived growth factor receptor, beta polypeptide (PDGFRB), and transforming growth factor, beta receptor II (70/80 kDa) (TGFBR2) mRNAs, was found on day 22. The analysis was extended to determine the integrin (ITG) transcripts and found high levels of integrin, alpha 4 (antigen CD49D, alpha 4 subunit of VLA-4 receptor) (ITGA4), integrin, alpha 8 (ITGA8), integrin, beta 3 (platelet glycoprotein IIIa, antigen CD61) (ITGB3), and integrin, beta 5 (ITGB5) mRNAs on day 22. These observations indicate that after the conceptus–endometrium attachment, EMT-related transcripts as well as the epithelial marker cytokeratin were present in the bovine trophectoderm and suggest that the implantation process for noninvasive trophoblasts requires not only extracellular matrix expression but also partial EMT.
The effect of maternal hypercholesterolemia on the placenta and fetal arteries in rabbits
Authors: Frantz Elemara , Menezes Honório Sampaio , Lange Kellyn Cristine , Abegg Milena Pacheco , Correa Cora Albrecht , Zangalli Leoni , Vieira Jefferson Luís , Zettler Cláudio Galeano
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE: To investigate the degree of placental permeability in dyslipidemic rabbits and the consequent vascular dysfunction in fetuses of female rabbits with high lipoprotein levels. METHODS: Fifteen adult females New Zealand White rabbits were divided into two groups. Group 1(n=5) - hypercholesterolemic diet with 0.5% cholesterol, and Group 2 (n=10) - control. On day 30, the levels of plasma lipoproteins and triglycerides were analyzed in the mothers, and the presence of collagen was analyzed in the placenta as well as in fetal coronary and aorta. Statistical analyses used the Student's t and the Mann-Whitney tests. RESULTS: Lipoprotein levels were significantly different (p=0.02 to p<0.001) in experimental and control groups. In the hypercholesterolemic group, total cholesterol levels were in average 793mg/dl; triglycerides were in average 257mg/dl; HDL-C was 48mg/dl, and LDL-C was in average 692mg/dl. The amount of collagen per micrometers square (mµ²) in samples from hypercholesterolemic animals was significantly higher than in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The study confirmed placental permeability to lipoproteins, shown by increased amounts of collagen in fetal tissues. This alteration results in increased susceptibility to atherosclerosis in adult life, representing a risk factor for the early development of disease, which may appear even in the prenatal period.
Experimental model of smoking and simulation of reflux with acid and pepsin in rats
Authors: Zen Junior José Hélio , Negro André Del , Colli Neto José Alexandre , Araujo Marina Rachel , Altemani Albina Maria , Andreollo Nelson Adami
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE: To develop experimental models to evaluate the effects of hydrochloric acid associated with the pepsin instilled in the mucosa of the upper esophagus and the esophagogastric junction of young male rats Wistar, simulating injury caused by gastroesophageal reflux on the mucosa of aero-digestive tract in humans as well as the action of the risk exposure of mucosa to cigarette smoke. METHODS: Fifty young male Wistar rats divided in 5 groups with 10 animals each one, respectively simulating pharyngo-laryngeal reflux and gastroesophageal reflux, pharyngo-laryngeal reflux and smoking, smoking only, gastroesophageal reflux and control group. RESULTS: The histopathologic studies no recorded neoplasias, only mild changes and no significant alterations. The hemo-oximetry (carboxyhemoglobin and methemoglobim) and CO2 concentration confirm that the animals were submitted to high intensity of exposure to carcinogens in tobacco and its derivatives. CONCLUSION: The experimental models were highly efficient, practical, easy to use and economical and can be employed in other similar studies to determine the harmful effects by smoking and reflux.
Evaluation of the effects of carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum on abdominal wall wound healing in rats undergoing segmental resection and anastomosis of the left colon
Authors: Morais Pedro Henrique Alves de , Farias Igor Eduardo Caetano de , Durães Leonardo de Castro , Carneiro Fabiana Pirani , Oliveira Paulo Gonçalves de , Sousa João Batista de
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum on abdominal wall wound healing in rats. METHODS: Eighty rats underwent laparotomy, segmental left colon resection, and anastomosis. The animals were divided into three experimental groups and one control group: EI = pneumoperitoneum for 30 minutes before laparotomy (n=20); EII = pneumoperitoneum for 30 minutes after abdominal closure (n=20); EIII = pneumoperitoneum for 30 minutes before laparotomy and 30 minutes after abdominal closure (n=20); C = control group, without pneumoperitoneum (n=20). In each group, 10 animals were killed 7 days and 10 animals 14 days postoperatively. A segment of the abdominal wall was resected and subjected to tensile strength testing. Another segment of abdominal muscle was used for histopathological analysis; the specimens were fixed in formalin and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. RESULTS: There were no differences in histopathology and tensile strength values among animals in the experimental and control groups 7 or 14 days after surgery. CONCLUSION: Under the present experimental conditions, carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum did not interfere with abdominal wall wound healing.
A Novel Treatment of Chronic Orchialgia
Authors: Basal Seref , Ergin Atila , Yildirim Ibrahim , Goktas Serdar , Atim Abdulkadir , Sizlan Ali , Irkilata Hasan Cem , Kurt Ercan , Dayanc Murat
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT: We evaluated the effectiveness of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) denervation of spermatic cord for the treatment of chronic orchialgia. Five patients diagnosed with chronic orchialgia were evaluated with a thorough medical and psychiatric history, physical examination, and scrotal Doppler ultrasound, urinary system x‐ray film, and urine analyses. One of the patients had bilateral chronic orchialgia. All of the patients had pain for a period of at least 3 months, and multiple conservative therapies failed to alleviate the pain. The patients, who had temporary pain relief after undergoing outpatient diagnostic cord block, were determined to be candidates for PRF denervation. PRF denervation of spermatic cord was performed for 6 testicular units. Visual analog scores were noted before and after the procedure. There were no pathologic conditions that indicated chronic orchialgia in any of the patients. No complications, including testicular atrophy or hypoesthesia of the scrotal or penile skin, occurred after the procedure. Mean visual analog scores before and after the procedure were 9 and 1, respectively. None of the patients needed any analgesics after the procedure or during the follow‐up period. Mean follow‐up period was 20 ± 2.5 weeks. No recurrence was noted, and none of the patients needed additional therapy. This is a limited case report on the short‐term use of PRF. Randomized, placebo‐controlled, and long follow‐up period studies are needed to better assess the efficacy of this procedure for chronic orchalgia.
Association of TNFα, TNFR1, and TNFR2 Polymorphisms With Sperm Concentration and Motility
Authors: Lazaros Leandros A. , Xita Nectaria V. , Chatzikyriakidou Anthoula L. , Kaponis Apostolos I. , Grigoriadis Nicolaos G. , Hatzi Elissavet G. , Grigoriadis Ioannis G. , Sofikitis Nikolaos V. , Zikopoulos Konstantinos A. , Georgiou Ioannis A.
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT: Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) is a multifunctional cytokine that regulates various cellular processes related to spermatogenesis. Two types of cell receptors, TNFR1 and TNFR2, mediate TNFα activity. In the present study, we sought to explore the association of TNFα –857C→T, TNFR1 36A→G, and TNFR2 676T→G polymorphisms with sperm concentration and motility. Two hundred ninety men were examined during infertility investigation; of those, 170 men were normozoospermic and 120 were oligospermic. Polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed significant differences in genotype distribution of the TNFR1 36A→G polymorphism between normozoospermic and oligospermic men. Men with oligozoospermia presented TNFR1 36A/A genotypes less frequently than normozoospermic men (P < .001). The presence of the TNFR1 36G allele was significantly increased in oligospermic men (P < .001). Furthermore, the presence of the TNFR1 36G allele was associated with lower sperm concentration in normozoospermic men (P < .03) and in the total study population (P < .001), and with lower sperm motility in normozoospermic men (P < .007) and in the total study population (P < .001). No significant associations were found between TNFα –857C→T and TNFR2 676T→G polymorphisms and semen quality. The TNFR1 36A allele is associated with increased sperm concentration and motility in our series, supporting the significance of TNFR1 gene in semen quality.
Functional Cooperation Between GATA Factors and cJUN on the Star Promoter in MA‐10 Leydig Cells
Authors: Martin Luc J. , Bergeron Francis , Viger Robert S. , Tremblay Jacques J.
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT: Steroid hormone biosynthesis requires the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR). STAR is part of a protein complex that transports cholesterol through the mitochondrial membrane where steroidogenesis begins. Several transcription factors participate to direct the proper spatiotemporal and hormonal regulation of the Star gene in Leydig cells. Mechanistically, this is believed to involve the functional interplay between many of these factors. Here we report a novel transcriptional cooperation between GATA factors and cJUN on the mouse Star and human STAR promoters in MA‐10 Leydig cells. This cooperation was observed with different GATA members (GATA1, 4, and 6), whereas only cJUN could cooperate with GATA factors. GATA/cJUN transcriptional cooperation on the Star promoter is mediated via closely juxtaposed GATA and AP‐1 binding motifs. Mutation of all functional GATA and cJUN elements abolished GATA/cJUN cooperation, which is in agreement with previous data reporting a direct interaction between GATA4 and cJUN in a heterologous system. These data add valuable new insights that further define the molecular mechanisms that govern Star transcription in steroidogenic cells of the testis.
New Patterns of Political Patronage and Their Effect on Health Policy
Authors: Tolchin Susan J. , Gupta Debasree Das , Beck Jeffrey
Published: December 2011

The article considers the concept of pinstripe patronage put forth in Pinstripe Patronage: Political Favoritism from the Clubhouse to the White House and Beyond, by Martin and Susan J. Tolchin (Boulder, Colorado: Paradigm Publishers, 2011) as it applies to the realm of health policy and politics.
Hepatoportal Sclerosis in Childhood: Some Presenting with Cholestatic Features (a Re-Evaluation of 12 Children)
Authors: Yilmaz Guldal , Sari Sinan , Egritas Odul , Dalgic Buket , Akyol Gulen
Published: December 2011

Hepatoportal sclerosis (HPS) is a syndrome of obscure etiology, and is one of the causes of noncirrhotic portal hypertension (PH). We aimed to investigate this heterogeneous group of patients whose presentation showed cholestatic features, histopathologically. Between 1999 and 2009, 12 children diagnosed with HPS were retrospectively evaluated. HPS was diagnosed with evidence of PH, noncirrhotic liver biopsy with typical histopathologic findings, and exclusion of other possible causes of PH. The data was obtained from pathology reports and microscopic slides. In histopathological re-evaluation fibrosis state, aberrant portal vessels, portal tract dilation and inflammation, ductular reaction, regenerative nodular hyperplasia, acinar transformation, presence of bile pigment, and cholangitis were noted. Serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin levels, presentation patterns, and radiologic findings were assessed. Familial relationship degrees were also investigated. Twelve patients (9 boys, 3 girls; 3–180 months) were re-evaluated. Two pairs of the patients were siblings. Parents of 7 patients were consanguine. The most common presenting symptom was abdominal distension. Histopathologically, all patients had hepatoportal sclerosis/intimal fibrous thickening of portal vein and periportal fibrosis, acinar transformation, and regenerative nodules not surrounded by fibrous septae. Eight patients had vascular aberrations, 7 had ductular reaction, 1 showed mild cholangitis, and 1 had canalicular bile pigment. We conclude that genetic predisposition might be a possible factor for HPS development in Turkish patients and it should be kept in mind that cholestatic features noticed in histopathological evaluation may represent a variant group in the spectrum of HPS.
New data on the morphology of Dichelyne hartwichi (Nematoda, Cucullanidae), a parasite of freshwater tetraodontid fishes (Tetraodon spp.) in Thailand
Authors: Moravec František , Fiala Ivan , Dyková Iva
Published: December 2011

Parasitological examination of the freshwater fish Tetraodon palembangensis Bleeker (Tetraodontidae, Tetraodontiformes) (n = 19), imported along with other ornamental fishes from Thailand into the Czech Republic in October 1998, revealed the presence of male specimens of the nematode Dichelyne (Dichelyne) hartwichi Moravec, Wolter et Körting, 1999 (Cucullanidae) (prevalence 11%, intensity 1). Their detailed study using light and scanning electron microscopy (the latter used for the first time in this species) enabled the redescription of this hitherto little-known species and the recognition of considerable morphological and biometrical intraspecific variability. The finding of this species in T. palembangensis represents a new host record.
Ultrastructure and cytochemistry of vitellogenesis and the vitellocytes of the bothriocephalidean cestode Clestobothrium crassiceps (Rudolphi, 1819), a parasite of the teleost fish Merluccius merluccius (L., 1758) (Gadiformes, Merlucciidae)
Authors: Świderski Zdzisław , Gibson David , Marigo Adji , Delgado Eulàlia , Torres Jordi , Miquel Jordi
Published: December 2011

Vitellogenesis and vitellocytes of the bothriocephalidean cestode Clestobothrium crassiceps (Rudolphi, 1819), a parasite of the teleost fish Merluccius merluccius (L., 1758), were studied by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and cytochemistry. During vitellogenesis, four developmental stages were distinguished at the TEM level: (I) a stem cell stage of the gonial type; (II) an early differentiation stage, predominantly exhibiting lipid and protein synthetic activity; (III) an advanced differentiation or vitellocyte maturation stage, primarily exhibiting active glycogenesis still accompanied by an increase in lipid accumulation; and (IV) a mature vitellocyte stage. Vitellogenesis involves: (1) an increase in cell volume; (2) an extensive development of parallel, frequently concentrically arranged, cisternae of granular endoplasmic reticulum (GER) that produce dense, proteinaceous shell-gobules; (3) the development of Golgi complexes engaged in the packaging of this material; (4) an accelerated accumulation of unsaturated and saturated lipid droplets, along with their continuous enlargement and fusion; (5) the formation of individual β-glycogen particles and α-glycogen rosettes and their accumulation in the form of glycogen islands scattered among lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of maturing and mature vitellocytes; and (6) the rapid accumulation of large, saturated lipid droplets accompanied by dense accumulations of α- and β-glycogen along with proteinaceous shell-globules or shell-globule clusters in the peripheral layer during the advanced stage of vitellocyte maturation. Vitellogenesis in C. crassiceps generally resembles that previously described for three other bothriocephalideans, but differs from that of other cestode orders. Cytochemical staining with periodic acid-thiocarbazide-silver proteinate for glycogen indicates a strongly positive reaction for β-glycogen particles and α-glycogen rosettes, which form several large glycogen accumulations around the large, saturated lipid droplets of maturing and mature vitellocytes. Some hypotheses concerning the interrelationships between patterns of vitellogenesis, the possible modes of egg formation, embryonic development and life cycles in cestodes, and their phylogenetic implications are commented upon.
Analysis of the antibodies anti-Toxoplasma gondii by ELISA based on two diagnostic antigens: rSAG1 and rBAG1
Authors: Liu Min , Wang Tao , Li Hua , Li Ju-Ying , Zhong Han , Tan Chang-Zan , Huang De-Cheng , Zhao Liang , Chen Xiao-Guang , Lun Zhao-Rong
Published: December 2011

Schizophrenia is a serious neuropsychiatric disease of uncertain etiology. Previous studies have demonstrated that antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii infection are associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia. The objective of this study was to analyze anti-T. gondii antibodies in 477 Chinese schizophrenia patients using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on recombinant surface antigen 1 (rSAG1), recombinant bradyzoite antigen 1 (rBAG1) and the soluble tachyzoite antigens (STAg) of T. gondii RH strain. Results showed that among the sero-positives (IgG and/or IgM) for T. gondii infection examined in schizophrenia patients, sero-positive samples for rSAG1, rBAG1 and STAg were 20.5% (98/477), 20.5% (98/477) and 23.5% (112/477) respectively, while compared to 210 blood donors, sero-positive (IgG and/or IgM) samples for these antigens (rSAG1, rBAG1 and STAg) were only 5.7% (12/210), 6.2% (13/210) and 5.7% (12/210), respectively. Furthermore, when IgG antibody reaction in the schizophrenia sera was compared with the rBAG1 and rSAG1, results demonstrated that beside the cases which can be detected by both rSAG1 and rBAG1, some sero-positive for T. gondii in schizophrenia sera can only be detected either by rSAG1 or rBAG1. This phenomenon was also observed in the detection of IgM with rSAG1 and rBAG1. 5.9% (28/477) of cases of schizophrenia which are positive for IgG or IgM by rSAG1 are negative for STAg, while 9.2% (44/477) of the schizophrenia cases which are positive for IgG or IgM by rBAG1 are negative for STAg. Although STAg can also be used to diagnose T. gondii infection from schizophrenia patients, it may not actually indicate the infection as some positive samples may be mistakenly considered to be negative. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the sero-positive rate for T. gondii in the Chinese schizophrenia patients was higher than blood donors. More importantly, our results provide evidence that the combination of rSAG1 and rBAG1 antigens in the diagnosis of T. gondii infection could closely reflect the actual infection of this parasite in schizophrenia patients.
Load of HeteLoad of Heterotrophicrotrophic and Nitrifying Bacteria in the Sewage Lagoon and the Receiving River Buriganga
Authors: Hasan Mehedi Mahmudul , Ahmed M Kawser , Hafiz Fauzia , Hussain Abu Muhammad Imtiaz , Parveen Sahana , Tinni Shiuly Rahman
Published: December 2011

The present study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of some selected heterotrophic bacteria in one of the sewage lagoons and in the river Buriganga, which receives the sewage effluents from the sewage lagoons, with a view to evaluate the effect of sewage treatment. The heterotrophic plate count (HPC) ranged from 1.1 x 108 to 3.0 x 109 cfu/ml in sewage lagoon from January to December 2005. The HPC values ranged from 1.1 x 105 to 3.0 x 109 cfu/ml in the outfall of the sewage effluents and other sampling locations in the river Buriganga. The total and faecal coliform counts of the sewage lagoon and the discharge point in the river were always very high as >2.4 x 103 cfu/100 ml in all seasons as measured by the MPN method. Salmonellae were isolated occasionally, while vibrios were frequently isolated from all the sampling points from throughout the year. The MPN values of nitrifying bacteria were also estimated to compare with HPC values. Ammonium oxidizers ranged from 1.1 x 102 to 1.1 x 103/ml in the sewage lagoon and 2.0 x 101 to 2.2 x 103 /ml in the river water. Nitrite oxidizers showed very low MPN values. This study suggests that the water of the river Buriganga was heavily polluted. It also suggests that the oxidation or self-purification system in the oxidation lagoons and subsequent treatment of the effluents were far from satisfactory level. Even the discharged sewage in the river Buriganga remains equally contaminated, which had been demonstrated by the presence of large number of pathogenic organisms. This poses health hazards to the users of the water from the river and also poses risks for the aquatic organisms of this water body.Keywords: Sewage lagoon, Buriganga River, Heterotrophic bacteria, Coliform bacteria Salmonella, Vibrio, Nitrifying bacteriaDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.869Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 93-97
Computational Analyses of NS3 Serine Protease of Dengue Virus
Authors: Jesmin Dr , Sharmin Nazlee
Published: December 2011

Dengue virus (DENV), a mosquito-borne Flavivirus, is an emerging global health threat. A number of studies have already revealed that the non-structural NS3 serine protease is required for the maturation of the viral polyprotein and thus is a promising target for the development of antiviral inhibitors. However, the residues and other structural elements that play a role in the enzyme-mediated maturation process of DENV by NS3 have yet to be definitely assigned. Identification of the binding site and the actual environment around the active site pocket are still open to questions. To elucidate the functions of DENV NS3 and in particular, for a better understanding of the active site pocket of the enzyme, a 3D model of DEN2 NS3 serine protease to locate its key catalytic residues has been proposed. From computational comparative analyses of sequences and structures of related NS3 serine proteases of the Flaviviridae family, the charge distribution and electrostatic potential in and around the active site pocket of DEN2-NS3 serine protease have also been predicted. This proposed model would facilitate future studies for better rationalize the environment of the substrate-binding pocket and thus stimulate more rationally designed structure-function studies aimed at elucidating the role of this enzyme in virus maturation.Keywords: Dengue virus (DENV), Flaviviridae, NS3 serine protease, PolyproteinDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.872 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 107-113
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Baby Chick Ranikhet Disease Vaccine and Bangla Baby Chick Ranikhet Disease Vaccine in Fayoumi Chicks
Authors: Bhuiyan Zafar Ahmed , Biswas Paritosh Kumar , Anwar M Nural , Ahad Abdul , Debnath Nitish Chandra
Published: December 2011

A study was undertaken for testing the comparative efficacy of two live vaccines produced in Bangladesh to control Newcastle disease (ND) in chickens. One of these vaccines named ‘baby chicks Ranikhet disease vaccine (BCRDV), a government vaccine produced by the Livestock Research Institute, Mohakhali, Dhaka, and the other named ‘Bangla-BCRDV®', a commercial vaccine produced recently by a pharmaceutical company. Both the vaccines are prepared using the ‘F' strain of Newcastle disease virus (NDV). Three hundred Fayoumi chicks distributed in 3 groups were used in this study. The results of this study revealed that, at the age of 49 days the survival rates of chicks belonged to BCRDV, Bangla-BCRDV® and control groups were 69, 11 and 18%, respectively. The survival rate of Fayoumi chicks in the BCRDV group was significantly higher than that of the two other groups (p <0.05). Conversely, almost similar survival rates of chicks were recorded in the control and Bangla-BCRDV® groups (p >0.05). At day-1, the haemagglutination inhibition (HI) titre to NDV of the chicks was log2 5.8 ± 0.79 (SEM). At day 35 the same HI titre was observed in the chicks of the BCRDV group, which was, 1 and 1.5 log (base 2) higher than the chicks of the control and Bangla-BCRDV® group, respectively. At day-49, HI titres to NDV ≥ log212 were recorded in the chicks of all the three groups that survived having challenged with velogenic NDV. There were no significant differences in weekly mean body-weights of the chicks in all the three groups until the week 8 when the mean bodyweight of the chicks was higher in the BCRDV group compared with the two others. These results indicted that the efficacy of BCRDV in Fayoumi chicks against ND was better than the Bangla-BCRDV®.Keywords: Baby chick ranikhet disease vaccine, Bangla baby chick ranikhet disease vaccine, Newcastle disease (ND), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), Newcastle disease vaccine (NDC), Fayoumi chicksDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.876 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 125-129
Cloning of Multidrug-Resistant Genes from Vibrio cholerae Non-O1 NCTC4716
Authors: Begum Anowara , Kuroda Teruo , Tsuchiya Tomofusa
Published: December 2011

Both clinical and environmental multidrug-resistant strains of Vibrio cholerae (O1 and non-O1) have been reported from different parts of the world. In this study, we have cloned twenty-five genes associated drug resistance in Vibrio cholerae non-O1 NCTC4716 using shotgun cloning method. All of the cloned genes were introduced and expressed in a drug hypersusceptible host Escherichia coli KAM32. We observed elevated minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of various antimicrobial agents such as fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, ethidium bromide and others in all transformants. Keywords: Vibrio cholerae, Drug resistance, Drug-resistant genes, Cloning, Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v23i2.879 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 23, Number 2, December 2006, pp 137-139
Performance of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza Inoculated Acacia mangium Seedlings on Degraded Land with Different Rates of Phosphorus
Authors: Satter M Abdus , Hanafi M Musa , Mahmud Tenku MM , Azizah Hashim
Published: December 2011

The experiment was conducted in the degraded ex-tin mining farm of Universiti Putra Malaysia during November 1998 to May 1999. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. Three phosphorus (P) rates, viz., 0, 50 and 100 g Gaphsa phosphate rock (GPR) per plant in combination with and without arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) inoculation were studied on newly planted tree species Acacia mangium. Mycorrhiza inoculation was assigned to the main plot and P dose to the subplot. Three-month-old AM preinoculated seedlings were planted in the field at 2 m x 2 m spacing. The experiment was continued until 160 days after planting (DAP). Mycorrhiza inoculation and rate of P application significantly influenced growth and development of the A. mangium plants. The highest growth of un-inoculated A. mangium plants was observed with 100 g GPR per plant; whereas for AM inoculated plants the highest growth was observed with 50 g GPR per plant. This indicates that P requirement of newly planted A. mangium plants on degraded ex-tin mining land could be reduced to 50 g GPR per plant, i.e., by 50% with AM inoculation. Keywords: Arbuscular mycorrhiza, Acacia mangium, Degraded land, PhosphorusDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1230 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 9-18
Multiple-Antibiotic Resistance Mediated by Plasmids and Integrons in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Lina Taslima Taher , Rahman Sabita Rezwana , Gomes Donald James
Published: December 2011

Antibiotic resistance in urinary tract infection (UTI) is a growing public health problem in the world. In this study, a total of 182 uropathogens were isolated from patients with symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI). Escherichia coli (88%) was the most prevalent isolate, while Klebsiella pneumoniae was recovered from 12% cases. The male/female ratio was 1:3. About 56% female and 51% male patients belonged to the age group >40 years. The antibiotic resistance rates of the isolates to fifteen different drugs were investigated. E. coli and K. pneumoniae showed variable pattern of susceptibility. The percentage of resistance to different drugs was higher in E. coli isolates compared to that of K. pneumoniae. Among the total number of isolates about 87% were resistant to at least three commonly used antibiotics. All the isolates were sensitive to imipenem. Analysis of the plasmid DNA had shown that the plasmid pattern was very diverse in both E. coli and K. pneumoniae. All the isolates contained multiple numbers of plasmid ranging from 1.0 to >140 MDa. Middleranged plasmids (30 to 80 MDa), the transferable resistance plasmids, were found to be present in 86% E. coli and 85% K. pneumoniae isolates. The strong association observed between plasmid profiles and drug resistance patterns suggest that plasmids other than the common plasmids may have epidemiological significance. The presence of class 1 and class 2 integrons were also investigated. A relatively high occurrence of class 1 integrons, that are associated with lateral transfer of antibacterial resistance genes, was observed in K. pneumoniae (88%) than in E. coli isolates (54%). Class 2 integrons were not found in any of the E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates. These results show the high rate of drug resistance and the presence of high rate of transferable elements in these MDR isolates. Keywords: Uropathogens, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, Plasmid profiles, IntegronsDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1231 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 19-23
Assessment of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Association in Some Fruit Plants in Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Delowara
Published: December 2011

Â Rhizosphere soils of 19 fruit plants from horticultural farm of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Joydebpur, Gazipur were assessed for arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) spore population and determining colonization in their roots. The spore numbers recorded ranged from 48.0 (Citrus limon) to 1,050 (Annona reticulata) per 100 g soil in 2004, 41.0 (Citrus grandis) to 916.7 (Phyllanthus emblica) in 2005 and 44.3 (Citrus grandis) to 575.0 (Syzygium samarangense, white) in 2006. A considerable variation was observed in average spore numbers recorded in three consecutive years. Different fruit plants showed different percentages of root colonization by AM fungi. Among all the fruit plants, the highest colonization (86.7%) was found in Syzygium jambos and Elaeocarpus floribundus and the lowest colonization (20.0%) was recorded in Syzygium samarangense (red). Keywords: Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM), Colonization, Spore population, Fruit plantsDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1234 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 34-37
Evaluation of Multiplex PCR System for Simultaneous Detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enteritidis in Shrimp Samples
Authors: Yasmin Mahmuda , Kawasaki Susumu , Kawamoto Shinichi
Published: December 2011

A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was evaluated for simultaneous detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enteritidis in shrimp samples. The sensitivity of DNA amplification by PCR in this method was found to be 103 cfu/ml for each pathogen. When this protocol was adopted for the detection of each of the above mentioned pathogen in spiked shrimp extract culture, similar sensitivity was observed. However, this method detected 1 bacterial cell for E. coli O157:H7 and S. enteritidis and 100 for L. monocytogenes per 25 g spiked shrimp samples after overnight enrichment. In the commercially imported shrimp samples, none was found to contain any of the three pathogens by multiplex PCR or by conventional method, which suggests that the multiplex PCR is a reliable and useful for rapid screening of shrimp samples for E. coli O157:H7, L. monocytogenes and S. enteritidis. This will save time and increase our ability to assure food safety. Keywords: Multiples PCR, Shrimp extract, Spiked sample, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enteritidisDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1236 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 42-46
Production and Characterization of Keratinolytic Protease of Bacillus licheniformis MZK-03 Grown on Feather Mill
Authors: Paul Debasish , Rahman Alamgir , Ilias Mohammad , Hoq M Mozammel
Published: December 2011

Keratinolytic protease is an inducible specific proteolytic enzyme, which is produced by Bacillus licheniformis MZK-03 in presence of keratin (feather mill) as sole carbon and nitrogen source in growth medium. Maximum level of keratinolytic protease was produced after 42 h at 37°C over a wide range of initial pH (5.0 to 12.0) under continuous agitation (200 rpm). Keratinolytic protease worked best at 37°C and at pH 8.5. The enzyme was quite stable over a wide range of pH (7.0 to 11.0) but activity dropped drastically beyond this level (enzyme activity dropped to 8.8% and 19.3% at pH 6.5 and 12.0, respectively). Half-life of keratinolytic protease at 70° and 60°C were found to be 3 and 7 min respectively. The enzyme showed highest stability at 40°C (>90% after 3 h). The half-life at 4°C was 34 days. The presence of metal ions (5 mM) like Mg2+, Mn2+, Ca2+ and K+ had no remarkable effect on the keratinolytic protease activity but the activity decreased in presence of Hg2+ and Cu2+. The enzyme may belong to serine protease group as it is inhibited by serine protease inhibitor phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride (PMSF). The enzyme is as compatible as other commercially available enzymes used in leather industry with tannery chemicals. It was completely incompatible with Na2S and CaO for their high alkalinity (pH >13.0), which was also observed for other commercial enzymes except the commercial enzyme supplemented with ammonium sulphate. Keywords: Bacillus licheniformis MZK-03, Keratinolytic protease, Keratin, Production, CharacterizationDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1239 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 57-61
Isolation of Keratinophilic Fungi from Soil in Khairpur City, Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Soomro Irshad Hussain , Kazi Yasmeen Faiz , Zardari Miandad , Shar Abdul Hussain
Published: December 2011

One hundred and twenty five soil samples were collected from five areas in the vicinity of Khairpur city, Sindh, Pakistan and screened for the presence of keratinophilic fungi by using hair bait technique. A total 253 isolates belonged to eight genera and eleven species of keratinophilic fungi were recovered. Maximum number (153/253, 60.5%) of keratinophilic fungi was recovered from farm land and poultry soils. Aspergillus niger was most prevalent species and represented 20.2% of the total number isolated. A. flavus and A. fumigatus were almost equal in their prevalence and represented 11.9 and 11.1%, respectively. Botrytis cinaria comes next constituting 9.9%; followed by Mucor spp. (9.1%) and Chochliobolus lunatus (8.3%). Other species isolated less frequently included Chrysosporum asperatum (5.9%), Fusarium spp. (5.1%), Penicillium spp. (3.1%) and A. wentii (2.4%). The distribution pattern of the different keratinophilic fungi and their significance are discussed.Keywords: Keratinophilic fungi, Prevalence, Keratinase, Hair bait techniqueDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v24i1.1246 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 24, Number 1, June 2007, pp 79