Prevalence of hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus in the patients presenting with acute viral hepatitis in Rohtak, Haryana, India

Background: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) cause acute hepatitis in humans and are transmitted mainly through the fecal-oral route. They pose major health problems in developing countries. This study was done to determine prevalence of HAV and HEV in patients presenting with AVH and the co-infection of HAV and HEV in these patients.Methods: The study was conducted in the virology research and diagnostic laboratory, PGIMS Rohtak during the study period of August 2017-December 2018. The study population included sera of individuals from all age group who were suspected of acute viral hepatitis (AVH). All the sera were screened for IgM antibody to HEV and HAV using IgM capture ELISA.Results: HEV IgM ELISA test   was performed in 307 patients (mean age 34 years;), with an overall seroprevalence rate of 138(44.9%). HAV antibodies were detected in 109 subjects, with a median age of 9.5 years the seroprevalence of HAV was 34 (31.1%). HEV seropositivity was highest in the age group 20-30 years. Mean age was 34 years whereas the interquartile range was from 14-71 years. HAV infection was positive mainly in the age group <10 years. With interquartile range from 6-16 years. Out of total 34 patients positive for HAV infection males were 20 (58.8%), whereas females were 14(41.1%). HEV IgM was positive in 138 patients, out of which male were 96 (69.56%) and females were 42 (30.43%). HEV IgM was positive in 138 patients, out of which male were 96 (69.56%) and females were 42 (30.43%). HAV and HEV seen to be prevalent all with highest predominance seen towards the end of monsoons (August and September) and beginning of winters.Conclusions: The present study also points toward HEV being the prime etiological agent for outbreaks of acute hepatitis in the studied region of Haryana (Rohtak), India. A comparatively lower HAV prevalence may be the consequence of an overall declining trend due to improved living standards and environmental hygiene.

Seroprevalence of Cryptosporidium and risks of cryptosporidiosis in residents of Sothern Egypt: A cross-sectional study

Objective: To identify the serological epidemiology of Cryptosporidium infections and to follow up on the changes in the infection profile in Southern Egypt in order to establish a suitable scheme for control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis. Methods: A total of 1 912 (960 from human and 952 from animals) stool specimens and sera were screened for Cryptosporidium species using modified Ziehl Neelsen technique and a newly-developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Environmental risk factors and socioeconomic data were surveyed by questionnaire between September 2016 and December 2017. Results: Totally, 20.83% of the human subjects were positive for Cryptosporidium infection tested by ELISA. The seropositivity was positively correlated with age. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infections in females was significantly higher than in males (P<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA for Cryptosporidium were 99.06% and 88.88%, respectively. Furthermore, a high prevalence of Cryptosporidium in domestic animals (42.20%). Conclusions: The study observed that Cryptosporidium infections are common in the study area, with water sanitation, socioeconomic level; eating habits and hygienic status are considered the main risk factors for cryptosporidiosis. Therefore, environmental sanitation and health education will be useful in reducing the prevalence of infection.

Screening of Strongyloides infection using an ELISA test in transplant candidates

OBJECTIVES: Hyperinfection or disseminated strongyloidiasis has been frequently reported after transplants and is related to high mortality. This study aimed to screen for strongyloidiasis using serological diagnoses in transplant candidates. METHODS: An ELISA test was performed with filariform larvae of Strongyloides venezuelensis as a source of antigen. RESULTS: In the serum from transplant candidates, anti-Strongyloides IgG antibodies were detected in 35/150 (23.3%) samples by soluble fractions in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), 31/150 (20.7%) samples by soluble fractions in Tris-HCl, 27/150 (18.0%) samples by membrane fractions in PBS and 22/150 (14.7%) samples by membrane fractions in Tris-HCl. CONCLUSIONS: The present results suggest the ELISA test, ideally using soluble fractions of filariform larvae S. venezuelensis in PBS, as an additional strategy for the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis in transplant candidates.

Seroprevalence of Cryptosporidium and risks of cryptosporidiosis in residents of Sothern Egypt: A cross-sectional study

Objective: To identify the serological epidemiology of Cryptosporidium infections and to follow up on the changes in the infection profile in Southern Egypt in order to establish a suitable scheme for control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis. Methods: A total of 1 912 (960 from human and 952 from animals) stool specimens and sera were screened for Cryptosporidium species using modified Ziehl Neelsen technique and a newly-developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Environmental risk factors and socioeconomic data were surveyed by questionnaire between September 2016 and December 2017. Results: Totally, 20.83% of the human subjects were positive for Cryptosporidium infection tested by ELISA. The seropositivity was positively correlated with age. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infections in females was significantly higher than in males (P<0.05). The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA for Cryptosporidium were 99.06% and 88.88%, respectively. Furthermore, a high prevalence of Cryptosporidium in domestic animals (42.20%). Conclusions: The study observed that Cryptosporidium infections are common in the study area, with water sanitation, socioeconomic level; eating habits and hygienic status are considered the main risk factors for cryptosporidiosis. Therefore, environmental sanitation and health education will be useful in reducing the prevalence of infection.

Correlations between clinical features and CD4 cell count in HIV patients with tuberculosis

Background: The correlation between tuberculosis and HIV is evident from the higher incidents of tuberculosis estimated 5-8% per year among HIV infected person with lesser CD4cell count. The high seroprevalence with tuberculosis in occurrence among AIDS patients.Methods: 100 HIV positive patients with tuberculosis who were admitted to medicine department and who visited to ARTS center were taken up for study for period of two years from December 2014 to 2016. Type of study is a observational comparative cross sectional study The investigation for HIV and TB were done as per NACO and WHO recommendation ELISA test CD4 cell counts AFB staining chest X-ray FNAC Mountoux test pleural fluid analysis Ascitic fluid analysis CSF fluid analysis USG of thorax CT scan of thorax.Results: It is seen that the maximum number of patients belong to the age group 31-40 years male 40 (40%) and female 4(4%) the common occupation in the study group was driver 36 (36%) the common constitutional symptom was weight loss physical examination reveal underweight (BMI <16-18.5) 54 (54%) among the study extra-pulmonary TB 63 (63%) X-ray chest finding pleural effusion found in 21% of patients CD4 cell counts 200-500 /µl was seen maximum number of patients.Conclusions: The CD4cell counts is important investigation in HIV and TB patients it is main investigation to know prognosis of HIV also important for initiation of ARV drugs.it is evident from this study the decrease the CD4cell counts there is increase the incidence of tuberculosis.

Acceso oportuno al test de Elisa en el nivel primario de salud: una mirada desde los profesionales de salud / Timely access to ELISA test in the primary health level: a health professionals' view

Introdución: el Sindrome de Inmunodeficiencia Adquirida (VIH) sigue siendo un importante problema de salud pública a nivel mundial, ya que ha causado más de 34 millones de muertes hasta la fecha. Objetivo: conocer las barreras y facilitadores de un grupo personas que solicitan el test Elisa para el diagnóstico del Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Adquirida (VIH) en la atención primaria de salud, desde la perspectiva de los profesionales de la salud que trabajan en estos lugares. Métodos: estudio cualitativo descriptivo basado en el enfoque de análisis de contenido descrito por Krippendorff. Se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad a 30 profesionales de la salud que trabajan en dos Centros de Salud Familiar (CESFAM) de la comuna de La Pintana, Santiago de Chile. Para mantener el rigor metodológico se utilizaron los criterios de Guba & Lincoln. Resultados: se identificaron factores asociados al acceso oportuno al test de Elisa percibidas por los profesionales, entre ellos algunos que dificultan y otros que facilitan (Estigma social del VIH, burocracia en el proceso de toma del test de Elisa y falta de privacidad en la solicitud del test, relación de confianza entre usuario y profesional, y centralización del examen en los CESFAM). Conclusiones: el conocimiento de los factores tanto que facilitan como que dificultan mencionado por los profesionales que trabajan en centros donde se realiza la toma del test de Elisa debe ser considerada en el diseño e implementación de nuevas estrategias y en la modificación de las existentes, con la finalidad de aumentar el número de personas que accedan al test y con esto mejorar la calidad del cuidado y la satisfacción usuaria(AU)

Introduction: The Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV) continues to be a critic health concern for the worldwide public health, since it has caused up to date more than 34 million deaths. Objective: Know the obstacles and facilitators of a group of people who request the ELISA test for diagnosing the acquired immunodeficiency virus (VIH) in primary health care, from the perspective of the health professional who works in this sites. Methods: Qualitative descriptive study based on the content analysis approach described by Krippendorff. In-deep interviews were conducted on 30 health professionals who work in two Family Health Centers (CESFAM) of La Pintana Town, Santiago de Chile. The Guba & Lincoln criteria were used, in order to maintain the methodologic rigor. Results: We identified factors associated with the timely access to ELISA tests as perceived by the professionals, among then some that make difficult and others that facilitate (HIV social stigma, bureaucracy in taking the ELISA test and the lack of privacy in requesting the test, confidence relationship between the user and the professional, and centralization of the test in the CESFAM's). Conclusions: Knowing both the facilitating and hindering factors mentioned by the professionals who work in centers where the ELISA tests are made should be considered in the design and implementation of new strategies and in the modification of the existing ones, with the aim to increase the number of people who can access the tests and thus to improve the quality of care and the users' satisfaction(AU)

ШИНЭСЭРХҮҮ БУДАРГАНА (SALSOLA LARICIFOLIA TURCZ. EX LITV) УРГАМЛЫН ХАВДРЫН ЭСРЭГ ИДЭВХИЙН СУДАЛГАА / Монголын эм зүй, эм судлал

Introduction: The previous study confirmed, derivatives of 7-hydroxycoumarin isofraxidin, scopoletin, which is containing in Salsola Laricifolia, are studied to significant effect to cancer cells. The researchers have been determined the natural resources of Salsola Laricifolia grown in Mongolia and worked out of possibility of cultivation of this plant. To investigate of anticancer activity of Salsola Laricifolia and to find out possibility of natural anticancer drug are attracting the researcher’s attention. Methods: The acute toxicity studied by method Prozorovskii V.B. The cancer model is created by urethane, method of Nettleship Kay, Trainin on 50 Wistar strain rats during 4 months. Results: In the oncopathololgical analysis shows: in a Testing group observed infiltrated lymphocyte cells, inflammation cell were determined in interstitial tissue. In ‘1st control group observed difference of epithelium cell, increasing size and number of nucleus. Chromatin was agglomerated. Hyperplasia and infiltrated lymphocyte were produced. In ‘1st control group observed difference of epithelium cell and dysplasia, nucleus polymorphism was observed.The result of ELISA test was in 1st group 23.41±1,17 ng/mL, 2nd group 22.572±1.42 ng/mL, 3rd group was 23.984±0.46 ng/mL, 4th group was 24.573±0.07 ng/mL respectively Conclusions: Oncopathological analysis shows that, Salsola laricifolia has anticancer activity.The result of ELISA test was, the concentrate of p53 3,57% in Testing group; 8,15% in ‘1st control group’ decreased than Healthy groups and its confirmed that Salsola laricifolia has anticancer activity Key words: Salsola laricifolia, anticancer activity, cancer, p53, ELISA test

The aflatoxin B1 isolating potential of two lactic acid bacteria

Objective:To determine lactic acid bacteria’s capability to enhance the process of binding and isolating aflatoxin B1 and to utilize such lactic acid bacteria as a food supplement or probiotic products for preventing absorption of aflatoxin B1 in human and animal bodies. Methods: In the present research, the bacteria were isolated from five different sources. For surveying the capability of the bacteria in isolating aflatoxin B1, ELISA method was implemented, and for identifying the resultant strains through 16S rRNA sequencing method, universal primers were applied. Results: Among the strains which were isolated, two strains of Lactobacillus pentosus and Lactobacillus beveris exhibited the capability of absorbing and isolating aflatoxin B1 by respectively absorbing and discharging 17.4%and 34.7%of the aforementioned toxin existing in the experiment solution. Conclusions:Strains of Lactobacillus pentosus and Lactobacillus beveris were isolated from human feces and local milk samples, respectively. And both strains has the ability to isolate or bind with aflatoxin B1.

Identificación de agentes infecciosos asociados con Diarrea Neonatal Bovina en la Sabana de Bogotá / Identification of infectious agents associated with Bovine Neonatal Diarrhea in the Sabana de Bogotá

Objetivo. Determinar los agentes infecciosos asociados causalmente a la presentación de Diarrea Neonatal Bovina (DNB) en terneros menores de 5 semanas de vida, procedentes de fincas lecheras y de producción mixta de la Sabana de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos. Se seleccionaron por conveniencia 21 fincas, se realizó seguimiento de 620 terneros desde el nacimiento hasta las 5 semanas de edad, se tomaron muestras de materia fecal de los animales que presentaron cuadro clínico de diarrea y de terneros clínicamente sanos como controles pareados. Se realizaron pruebas de ELISA para diagnóstico de E.coli F5, Rotavirus, Coronavirus, Cryptosporidium sp., y Salmonella sp., prueba de Ritchie para diagnóstico de Giardia sp., y tinción de Ziehl Neelsen modificada para Cryptosporidium sp. Se evaluó la asociación epidemiológica entre los agentes y la presentación de diarrea usando prueba de c2, seguido de un modelo de regresión logística (p<0.05). Resultados. Se encontró en la prueba de ELISA que de la totalidad de las muestras, 51 (38.3%), 26 (19.7%), 10 (7.5%) y 1 (0.75%) fueron positivas a Cryptosporidium sp., rotavirus, E coli F5 y coronavirus, respectivamente. Los animales positivos a Rotavirus por la prueba de ELISA y a Cryptosporidium sp., por la técnica de Ziehl Neelsen modificada tuvieron 2.6 y 7.0 veces mayor probabilidad que los demás animales de presentar DNB, respectivamente. Conclusiones. Los resultados presentados son los primeros que muestran el papel y la importancia del Cryptosporidium sp., y del Rotavirus en la DNB en las explotaciones ganaderas de la Sabana de Bogotá y en Colombia.

Objective. To determine the infectious agents causally associated to Bovine Neonatal Diarrhea (BND) in calves younger than five weeks of age from mixed production and dairy herds of Sabana de Bogota. Materials and methods. Twenty one herds were conveniently selected, and 620 calves were followed from birth up to 5 weeks of age, fecal samples were collected from animals with clinical signs of diarrhea and from calves without diarrhea which were taken as matched controls. ELISA tests were performed to diagnose E. coli F5, Rotavirus, Coronavirus, Salmonella sp, and Cryptosporidium sp, Ritchie test to diagnose Giardia sp., and a modified Ziehl Neelsen staining for Cryptosporidium sp. The epidemiological association between agents and the appearance of diarrhea was evaluated using c2 test, followed by a logistic regression model (p<0.05). Results. The ELISA test showed that 51 (38.3%), 26 (19.7%), 10 (7.5%) and 1 (0.75%) samples were positive for Cryptosporidium sp., rotavirus, E coli F5 and coronavirus, respectively. Animals that were positive for Rotavirus through ELISA and Cryptosporidium sp., through a modified Ziehl Neelsen technique had 2.6 and 7.0 times more probability than other animals to present BND, respectively. Conclusions. The results presented are the first to show the importance of Rotavirus and Cryptosporidium sp., in BND in the Sabana de Bogotá herds and in Colombia.

Antigenic characterization of Trypanosoma evansi using sera from experimentally and naturally infected bovines, equines, dogs, and coatis / Caracterização antigênica do Trypanosoma evansi usando soros de bovinos, equinos, cães e quatis experimentalmente e naturalmente infectados

The present research investigated the presence of T. evansi antibodies in animals from the subregion of Nhecolandia, in the Pantanal Sul-mato-grossense, by means of an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT), and the pattern of polypeptide recognition by sera from experimentally and naturally infected hosts using Western blotting. Serum samples were obtained from bovines (n = 102), horses (n = 98), and dogs (n = 55), and from 32 free-ranging coatis (Nasua nasua). None of the bovines were found positive, while sera from 16 dogs (29 percent) and 23 horses (23.4 percent) were positive by ELISA. Sera from 8 coatis (25 percent) were found positive using IFAT. Western blotting revealed major polypeptides of T. evansi with molecular weight ranging from 74 to 38 kDa. The polypeptides of 66, 48-46, and 38 kDa were identified by sera from experimentally infected bovines, donkeys, dogs, and coatis. The 48-46 and 38 kDa bands were mainly recognized in chronic phase of infection. The antigen with apparent molecular weight of 66 kDa, revealed by antibodies from all experimental animals, was also recognized in sera of horses and dogs from the Pantanal. The 48-46 kDa polypeptide was identified by antibodies from all naturally infected animals and must be further evaluated for use in specific diagnosis of T. evansi infection.

O trabalho de pesquisa investigou a presença de anticorpos anti- T. evansi em animais da sub-região da Nhecolândia, no Pantanal sul-mato-grossense, pelo ensaio imunoenzimático (ELISA) e a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI). O reconhecimento de polipeptídeos de T. evansi foi realizado pela técnica de "Western blotting", utilizando soros de animais experimentalmente e naturalmente infectados. As amostras de soro foram obtidas de bovinos (n = 102), cavalos (n = 98) e cães (n = 55) e de 32 quatis de vida livre (Nasua nasua) do pantanal mato-grossense. Todos os soros dos bovinos foram negativos, enquanto soros de 16 cães (29 por cento) e 23 cavalos (23,4 por cento) foram positivos pelo ELISA. Soros de oito quatis (25 por cento) foram positivos pela RIFI. Pelo "Western-blotting" foi possível revelar polipeptídeos de T. evansi, com peso molecular variando de 74 a 38 kDa. Os polipeptídeos de 66, 48-46 e 38 kDa foram identificados por soros de bovinos, cavalos, cães e quatis experimentalmente infectados. As bandas de 48-46 e 38 kDa foram reconhecidas principalmente na fase crônica da infecção. O antígeno com peso molecular aparente de 66 kDa, revelado por anticorpos de todos os animais experimentais, também foi reconhecido por soros de cavalos e cães do Pantanal. O polipeptídeo de 48-46 kDa foi identificado por anticorpos de todos os animais naturalmente infectados, devendo ser avaliado para o diagnóstico específico da infecção pelo T. evansi.

Dinámica serológica del virus de bronquitis infecciosa en una granja de pollo de engorde del departamento de Cundinamarca / Serologic dynamic of infectious bronchitis virus in a broiler flock in Cundinamarca

El virus de bronquitis infecciosa (IBV) causa una enfermedad altamente contagiosa, distribuida mundialmente, que conlleva graves pérdidas económicas. En algunas oportunidades se asocia con otras entidades como los virus de las enfermedades de Gumboro y de Newcastle, Mycoplasma gallisepticum y Escherichia coli. La alta variabilidad genética del virus ha generado una gran cantidad de cepas virales con diferentes cuadros clínicos. El objetivo del trabajo fue evaluar la dinámica de anticuerpos del IBV en aves vacunadas y no vacunadas contra IBV, alojadas en una explotación de pollo de engorde donde se detectó el agente por RT-PCR, en Fusagasugá, Colombia, y aves vacunadas en semiaislamiento en Bogotá. Para esto se organizaron 3 grupos de aves (Ross 308) de 1 día de edad (44 aves/grupo), las cuales fueron vacunadas con un virus vivo atenuado, cepa Massachusetts H120, y se evaluó la respuesta inmune a través de la prueba de Elisa. Desde el primer día hasta el día 24 de edad se observó una disminución progresiva de los títulos de anticuerpos en los tres grupos,aunque en las aves vacunadas y no vacunadas mantenidas en granja se observaron niveles de anticuerpos superiores al grupo en condiciones de semiaislamiento. A partir del día 28en las aves alojadas en campo se incrementaron levemente los títulos hasta final de ciclo. El leve aumento en el nivel de anticuerpos puede ser consecuencia de exposición al virusvacunal que generó reversión de patogenicidad, persistencia viral o una exposición tardía al virus de campo.

The infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes a highly contagious disease, spread worldwide,leading to serious economic losses. Sometimes the disease is associated with other entities such as infectious bursal disease virus, Newcastle disease virus, Mycoplasma gallisepticumand Escherichia coli. The highly genetic variability of the virus has generated a large number of viral strains with different clinical presentations. The objective was to assess the dynamics of the virus antibodies in birds vaccinated and not vaccinated against IBV, hosted en ona broiler farm where the agent was detected by RT-PCR in Fusagasuga, Colombia and vaccinated birds in semi-isolation conditions in Bogotá. To order this, 3 groups of birds(Ross 308) from 1 day of age (44 birds/group), which were vaccinated with a live attenuated virus strain Massachusetts H120, and the immune response was evaluated through the Elisa test. Since day 24 of age the birds showed a progressive decrease in antibody titers in all three groups, although in the vaccinated and unvaccinated birds kept at the farm were found higher levels of antibodies in the group of semi-isolation. Starting at day 28 in the birds housed in field, the antibodies titles rose slightly until the end of cycle. The slight increase in the level of antibodies may result from exposure to the virus vaccine generated a reversal of pathogenic viral persistence or a late exposure to field virus.

Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos / Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle

Setenta e seis bovinos, sem raça definida, jovens, de ambos os sexos, apresentaram lesões cutâneas multifocais nodulares, ulceradas e crostosas nas faces medial e lateral dos membros anteriores e posteriores, região ventral do pescoço, esterno e cauda. A doença ocorreu no verão e as lesões foram observadas nas regiões do corpo que ficavam grande tempo em contato com a água em canais de irrigação. Histologicamente observaram-se múltiplos granulomas e piogranulomas contendo escassas imagens negativas de hifas na área central, as quais foram melhor evidenciadas através da técnica de metenamina nitrato de prata de Grocott. O diagnóstico etiológico definitivo foi baseado na técnica de imuno-histoquímica com anticorpo policlonal anti-Pythium insidiosum. Adicionalmente, foi realizado o teste de ELISA indireto. Surtos de pitiose cutânea bovina são incomuns e, particularmente neste relato, todos os animais afetados tiveram cura espontânea das lesões dentro de duas a três semanas.(AU)

Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.(AU)

Evidencia serológica de la infección por herpesvirus equino tipos 1 y 4 en dos regiones de Colombia / Provas serológicas de infecção por equine herpesvirus 1 e 4, em duas regiões da Colômbia / Serologic evidence of equine herpesvirus 1 and 4 infection in two regions of Colombia

Los herpesvirus equinos tipos 1 y 4 (HVE-1 y HVE-4) son agentes de distribución mundial y causa de graves pérdidas económicas. La infección primaria por ambos virus se produce en el tracto respiratorio, progresa a través de la mucosa y puede alcanzar otros sistemas orgánicos ocasionando abortos en el último tercio de gestación, muerte perinatal y síndromes neurológicos poco específicos. El HVE-1 está asociado principalmente con abortos, mientras que el HVE-4 se asocia con enfermedad respiratoria. Los animales afectados se recuperan sin tratamiento, pero permanecen infectados toda la vida. En 2001 se reportó en Colombia un aislamiento de HVE, pero hasta la fecha no se conoce ningún estudio que confirme y determine el tipo de herpesvirus aislado. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue realizar un estudio serológico para determinar la presencia de los HVE-1 y HVE-4 en equinos clínicamente sanos, no vacunados contra HVE. Para lograr nuestro objetivo se tomaron 139 muestras de suero de equinos de dos regiones de Colombia (Antioquia y Meta), a partir de las cuales se realizó una prueba de ELISA indirecta, para detectar la presencia de anticuerpos dirigidos contra la glicoproteína G del HVE-1 y HVE-4. Se encontró una seropositividad para HVE-4 del 98.7 y 96.6% en Antioquia y Meta respectivamente; para HVE-1, la seropositividad fue del 18.8% en el departamento de Antioquia y 33.3% en departamento del Meta. Este es el primer estudio que reporta seropositividad en equinos clínicamente sanos no vacunados en Colombia, lo cual sugiere la presencia del virus y su establecimiento en la población equina de las regiones evaluadas, y posiblemente de otras zonas de Colombia.

Equine herpesviruses 1 and 4 (EHV-1 and EHV-4) are world wide spread viruses that cause significant economic losses. The primary infection of both viruses occurs in the upper respiratory tract, it can progress trough the mucose and can cause abortions in the last third of pregnancy, neonatal foal death, and non specific neurological syndromes. The EHV-1 is associated mainly whit abortion whereas EHV-4 is more related to respiratory disease. Infected animals � rapidly overcome clinical symptoms but then remaininfected all the life. In 2001 the first isolation of an EHV was reported in Colombia, but up-to-date, there are no reports that confirm and determinethe type of isolated virus. The aim of the present work was to perform a serologic study in order to determine the presence of HVE-1 and HVE-4, in clinically healthy non-vaccinated horses. Serum samples n = 139 were drawn from healthy animals attwo regions of Colombia (Antioquia and Meta department); an indirect ELISA test was performed to evaluate the presence of antibodies recognizihg to glycoprotein G of EHV-1 and EHV-4. We found that 98.7 and 96.6% of sera in Antioquia and Meta respectively were positive for EHV-4; the positivity for EHV-1 in Antioquia and Meta were18.8 and 33.3% respectively. This isthe first study thatreports presence of antibodies to EHV-1 and EHV-4 in clinically healthy non-vaccinated horses in Colombia. These results suggest the establishment of the virus in the equine population of the studied regions and possibly in other areas of the country.

O herpesvirus eqüino tipo-1 e -4 (HVE-1 e HVE-4) são os agentes de distribuição mundial e causam graves prejuízos econômicos. A infecção primária por ambos os vírus ocorre no trato respiratório, progredindo através da mucosa e podem atingir outros sistemas orgânicos causando abortos no último terço da gestação, morte perinatal e não-específica síndromes neurológicas. O HVE-1 é principalmente associado a abortos, enquanto o HVE-4 está associado a doenças respiratórias. Os animais afectados recuperar sem tratamento, mas permanecem infectados vida. Em 2001, foi relatada na Colômbia isolamento de HVE, mas até agora não teve conhecimento de qualquer estudo para confirmar e identificar o tipo de herpesvírus isolados. O objetivo deste estudo foi o de realizar um levantamento sorológico para determinar a presença de HVE-1 e HVE-4 em cavalos clinicamente saudável, não vacinadas contra o HVE. Para alcançar nosso objetivo teve 139 amostras de soro de cavalos em duas regiões da Colômbia (Antioquia e Meta), de onde foi feito um teste Elisa indireta, para detectar a presença de anticorpos dirigidos contra a glicoproteína G da HVE -1 e da HVE-4. Para HVE-4 houve uma soropositividade de 98.7 e de 96.6% em Antioquia e Meta, respectivamente, para HVE-1, soropositividade foi 18.8% no departamento de Antioquia e de 33.3% no departamento de Meta. Este é o primeiro estudo que relatou soropositividade em cavalos clinicamente saudáveis não vacinados, na Colômbia, o que sugere a presença de vírus e seu lugar na eqüina população das regiões avaliadas e, possivelmente, de outras partes da Colômbia.

Clinical and serological evidence of Toxocara infection in school children from Morrope District, Lambayeque, Peru

The aim of this study was to estimate the frequency of human toxocariosis in a child population from Morrope district, Lambayeque, Peru. From October to December 2005, 182 school children (96 male and 86 female) were studied. Blood samples were collected for Toxocara ELISA-IgG test and hematological examination. Additionally, stool samples were collected for coproparasitological examination to check cross reactions. We found frequency of positives in 32.4 percent (59/182) with a significant higher proportion of positivity in male children (p < 0.00001). 71.2 percent of the children with positive serology (52 male and seven female), were between five and 10 years old, 77.96 percent had respiratory symptoms, 61.02 percent had ocular manifestations, 38.98 percent had hepatic symptoms, 38.98 percent had mild or moderate eosinophilia, signs statistically associated with seropositivity. 83.5 percent of studied population had some intestinal parasite, such as: Blastocystis hominis (53.3 percent), Giardia lamblia (31.3 percent), Entamoeba coli (29.1 percent), Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar (1.1 percent), Hymenolepis nana (5.49 percent), and Ascaris lumbricoides (3.3 percent), but they had not any association with serology results. The ownership of dogs or/and cats were significantly associated with seropositivity to anti-Toxocara antibodies although the presence of such pets within the house was not. In conclusion, clinical and serological evidence of Toxocara infection exists in the studied population.

O propósito do presente trabalho foi estimar a freqüência da toxocaríase humana em crianças do distrito de Morrope, Lamabayeque, Perú. Nos meses de outubro a dezembro de 2005, 182 escolares (96 meninos e 86 meninas) foram estudados. Coletaram-se amostras de sangue para a análise hematológica e imunológica pelo teste de ELISA-IgG-Toxocara e amostras fecais para o exame parasitológico. A freqüência geral da população foi de 32,4 por cento (59/182) com proporção significativamente maior de positividade nos meninos. Das crianças com resultado positivo ao teste sorológico (52 meninos e sete meninas), 71,2 por cento tinham entre cinco e 10 anos, 77,96 por cento apresentavam sintomas respiratórios, 61,02 por cento apresentavam manifestações oculares, 38,98 por cento apresentavam moléstias hepáticas, 38,98 por cento apresentavam suave ou moderada eosinofília e todos estes sinais foram estatisticamente associados ao resultado da sorologia. A presença de algum parasito intestinal foi observada em 83,5 por cento da população estudada: Blastocystis hominis (53,3 por cento), Giardia lamblia (31,3 por cento), Entamoeba coli (29,1 por cento), Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar (1,1 por cento), Hymenolepis nana (5,49 por cento), e Ascaris lumbricoides (3,3 por cento), mas estes não tiveram nenhuma associação com a sorologia. A posse de cães e gatos revelou associação estatisticamente significante com a positividade para toxocaríase embora a presença destes animais no domicílio não tenha revelado tal associação. Conclui-se que existem evidências clínicas e sorológicas de infecção por Toxocara na população estudada.

Detection of Platelet Specific Antibodies by Modified Antigen Capture ELISA Test / 대한진단검사의학회지

BACKGROUND: Autoimmune thrombocytopenia (AITP) is characterized by autoantibody-induced platelet destruction. Although several studies have shown that pathogenic autoantibodies are mainly IgG directed platelet glycoproteins (GP), a platelet GP specific test is not available in clinical laboratories. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of a Modified Antigen Capture Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (MACE) test in the diagnosis of AITP. METHODS: We investigated fifty-seven patients who showed a platelet count lower than 100 x 10(9)/L and underwent a bone marrow examination. They were classified into primary AITP (P-AITP) (n=21), secondary AITP (S-AITP) (n=15), and non-immune thrombocytopenia (NITP) (n=21) by bone marrow findings and clinical diagnosis. Platelet GP (IIb/IIIa, Ia/IIa, Ib/IX, IV)-specific antibodies and anti-HLA class I antibody were detected by MACE test. RESULTS: Among 57 samples, platelet GP specific antibodies were detected in 8 (22.2%) of 36 patients with AITP and 1 (4.8%) of 21 patients with NITP. The specificities were as follows: GP IIb/IIIa (n=4), GP Ia/IIa (n=5), GP Ib/IX (n=3) and GPIV (n=2). Of the nine patients with platelet GP specific antibodies, four (44.4%) had more than two platelet GP specific antibodies. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive values of the MACE test for AITP were 22.2%, 95.2%, 88.9%, 41.7%, respectively. A previous transfusion history was associated with a higher detection rate of anti-HLA class I antibodies (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The MACE test is a convenient method to detect platelet GP specific antibody and is very specific to diagnose AITP. In clinical practice, even though it is not sensitive, the MACE test would be useful in differentiating AITP from NITP.

Clinical Analysis of Cerebral Sparganosis

The tape-worm spirometra mansonoides infests man world-widely, particularly in Asian countries with rare involvement of the central nervous system. Recently, the authors have experienced 7 cases of cerebral sparganosis, and reviewed their clinical manifestation, radiographic findings, operative and pathologic findings, and follow-up results. The cerebral sparganosis manifests headache, seizure, or hemiparesis. Most of patient had episodes of eating frogs or snakes. The brain CT scan showed low density area with ipsilateral ventricular dilatation. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) test showed positive response to serum and cerebrospinal fluid. The best treatment for cerebral sparganosis mansoni is surgical removal, from which we confirmed 4(17%) cases of live worms in operative and patholgic findings, and most of the seizure disappeared or decreased after operation.