MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:15:43 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538862&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fulc%2F2011%2F142719%2F The present paper relates to the pharmacological validation of the antiulcer efficacy of ethanol leaf extract of Morinda tinctoria Roxb. (EEMT) against aspirin pyloric ligation-induced gastric ulcer model and cysteamine-induced duodenal ulcer in Wistar rats. Oral administration of EEMT at a dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly prevented the occurrence of aspirin pyloric ligation and cysteamine-induced gastric and duodenal ulceration. The volume and acidity of gastric juice in pyloric ligated rats were significantly (P<0.01) reduced by EEMT. There was a significant decrease in the number of ulcers, and its severity in both the models proved the ulcer protective activity of EEMT. Administration of extract at both dose levels has shown a significant increase in potassium and ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538862 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538861&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faurt%2F2011%2F145359%2F Most research into Autism Spectrum Disorders has been conducted in affluent English-speaking countries which have extensive professional support services. This paper describes a series of investigations that was undertaken in Iran, and these findings, together with reviews of research in other low-income countries, are used to identify key lessons in three areas of service provision of particular relevance to developing countries with scarce professional resources: first, the issues to be considered in establishing the prevalence of the condition nationally; second, identification of parental understanding of ASD and the impact it has on them as carers; third, the education and training that could be provided to families when professional supports are sparse. It is concluded that culturall... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538861 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538860&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fpulmonology%2F2011%2F812972%2F A 73-year-old Japanese man was histologically diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma harboring an exon 19 deletion in the epidermal growth factor receptor. The patient was treated with gefitinib for 6 weeks until he developed substantially elevated hepatic enzyme levels that resulted in the discontinuation of gefitinib. Gefitinib was reintroduced with an intermittent treatment schedule after the transaminase levels normalized, but the patient's enzyme levels rose again, and the cancer progressed. Gefitinib was eventually replaced with erlotinib. There was stable disease for 7 weeks without any signs of liver toxicity. Thus, erlotinib may be a beneficial and well-tolerated treatment option for patients with gefitinib-related hepatotoxicity. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infecti... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538860 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538859&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnm%2F2011%2F162495%2F The preparation and characterization of hcp and fcc Ni and Ni/NiO nanoparticles is reported. Ni and Ni/NiO nanoparticles were obtained starting from a precursor material prepared using a citric assisted Pechini-type method and, then, followed by a calcination of the precursor in air at either 400 or 600°C for different times. The precursor was analyzed using thermogravimetric and differential thermal methods (TGA-DTA), and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and vibrational sample magnetometry. Nanoparticles showed a phase transformation for Ni from hcp to fcc and/or to fcc NiO structure as the calcination time increased. The influence of the phase transition and the formation of NiO on th... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538859 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538858&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjanth%2F2011%2F748147%2F Purpose. To find the prevalence of overweight/obesity and hypertension, and to study the association between BMI, blood pressure, and age. Methods. Cross-sectional study was carried out among 257 Tangkhul Naga males of Northeast India, age ranging from 20–70 years. The subjects were divided into five different age groups to study age trend. Results. Mean systolic, and diastolic BP was higher among subjects with elevated BMI and among older subjects. Minimum BP was found among underweight and maximum among obese. BP was found lowest among the youngest age group and higher among the elderly subjects. BMI was also found to be associated with age independently. Although the magnitude of correlation differed, there was significant positive correlation among BMI, age, systolic and diastoli... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538858 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538857&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjanth%2F2011%2F929860%2F This paper provides a followup on a previous report in this journal on the health impact of providing access to water treatment and flush toilets to region of Honduras. Significant reductions were found in the one-year incidence of positive test results for the three protozoan species tested. This finding combined with the previously reported ethnographic and medical chart review data provides compelling evidence that such interventions significantly reduce the disease load from waterborne pathogens within this population. Furthermore, the finding that initial results are significantly different, even in the initial round of testing, if individuals who are not followed up are eliminated from the analysis has profound methodological implications which warrant further investigation and demon... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538857 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538856&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijde%2F2011%2F319375%2F We study a system of infinitely many Riccati equations that arise from a cumulant control problem, which is a generalization of regulator problems, risk-sensitive controls, minimal cost variance controls, and k-cumulant controls. We obtain estimates for the existence intervals of solutions of the system. In particular, new existence conditions are derived for solutions on the horizon of the cumulant control problem. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538856 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5538855&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fads%2F2011%2F608324%2F Supply chain management is an important competitive strategies used by modern enterprises. Effective design and management of supply chains assists in the production and delivery of a variety of products at low costs, high quality, and short lead times. Recently, data envelopment analysis (DEA) has been extended to examine the efficiency of supply chain operations. Due to the existence of intermediate measures, the usual procedure of adjusting the inputs or outputs, as in the standard DEA approach, does not necessarily yield a frontier projection. The current paper develops a DEA model for measuring the performance of suppliers and manufacturers in supply chain operations. Additive efficiency decomposition for suppliers and manufacturers in supply chain operations is proposed. (Source: Int... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5538855 Sun, 25 Dec 2011 11:07:59 +0100 5538855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495608&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2011%2F138912%2F We study the robust stability criteria for uncertain neutral systems with interval time-varying delays and time-varying nonlinear perturbations simultaneously. The constraint on the derivative of the time-varying delay is not required, which allows the time-delay to be a fast time-varying function. Based on the Lyapunov-Krasovskii theory, we derive new delay-dependent stability conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which can be solved by various available algorithms. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate that the derived conditions are much less conservative than those given in the literature. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495608 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:30:15 +0100 5495608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495607&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fogi%2F2011%2F719059%2F Endometriosis is a multifactorial disease with poorly understood etiology, and reflecting an evolutionary nature where genetic alterations accumulate throughout pathogenesis. Our objective was to characterize the heterogeneous pathological process using parsimony phylogenetics. Gene expression microarray data of ovarian endometriosis obtained from NCBI database were polarized and coded into derived (abnormal) and ancestral (normal) states. Such alterations are referred to as synapomorphies in a phylogenetic sense (or biomarkers). Subsequent gene linkage was modeled by Genomatix BiblioSphere Pathway software. A list of clonally shared derived (abnormal) expressions revealed the pattern of heterogeneity among specimens. In addition, it has identified disruptions within the major regulatory p... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495607 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:30:15 +0100 5495607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495606&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcpn%2F2011%2F315068%2F The Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) scale is a widely used self-report measure that can facilitate detection of diabetes-specific emotional distress in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to assess the factor structure and validity of the Turkish version of the PAID. A validation study was conducted among 154 patients with insulin-naïve type 2 diabetes. Participants completed the PAID, Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Insulin Treatment Appraisal Scale (ITAS), and World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5) questionnaires. Exploratory factor analyses yielded a 2-factor structure, identifying a 15-item “diabetes distress” factor and a 5-item “support-related issues” factor. The total PAID-score and the two dimensi... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495606 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:30:15 +0100 5495606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495605&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcpn%2F2011%2F368324%2F Persons with heart failure (HF) frequently exhibit cognitive impairment with deficits in attention and memory. Depression is common in HF though its possible contribution to cognitive impairment is unknown. Cognitive dysfunction and depression may share common mechanisms in HF, as both are associated with similar abnormalities on neuroimaging. A total of 116 participants with HF (68.53±9.30 years) completed a neuropsychological battery and self-report measures of depression. Regression models showed depression incrementally and independently predicted test performance in all cognitive domains. Follow-up partial correlations revealed that greater depressive symptoms were associated with poorer performance on tests of attention, executive function, psychomotor speed, and language. These res... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495605 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:30:15 +0100 5495605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495604&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijmb%2F2011%2F461321%2F The Suwannee River spans the Florida/Georgia border to the Gulf of Mexico, and contributes to regional irrigation and recreational activities. Association of Salmonella enterica with these resources may result in the contamination of produce and disease outbreaks. Therefore, surface water was examined for the distribution of S. enterica at multiple time points from 4 sites on the upper Suwannee River. Isolates were confirmed by detection of the invA gene, and 96% of all samples were positive for the bacterium. Most probable number enumeration ranged from <18 to 5400 MPN/100 mL. Genetic diversity of these isolates (n=110) was compared to other environmental (n=47) or clinical (n=28) strains and to an online library (n=314) using DiversiLab rep-PCR. All strains showed &#... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495604 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:30:15 +0100 5495604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5495603&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faav%2F2011%2F546280%2F Previous numerical and experimental works show that time delay technique is efficient to reduce transmissibility of vibration in a single pneumatic chamber by controlling the pressure in the chamber. The present work develops an analytical study to demonstrate the effectiveness of such a technique in reducing transmitted vibrations. A quarter-car model is considered and delayed hysteretic suspension is introduced in the system. Analytical predictions based on perturbation analysis show that a delayed hysteretic suspension enhances vibration isolation comparing to the case where the nonlinear damping is delay-independent. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5495603 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:30:15 +0100 5495603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5488032&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjtran%2F2011%2F970421%2F In the past, ABO blood group incompatibility was considered an absolute contraindication for kidney transplantation. Progress in defined desensitization practice and immunologic understanding has allowed increasingly successful ABO incompatible transplantation during recent years. This paper focused on the history, disserted outcomes, desensitization modalities and protocols, posttransplant immunologic surveillance, and antibody-mediated rejection in transplantation with an ABO incompatible kidney allograft. The mechanism underlying accommodation and antibody-mediated injury was also described. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5488032 Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:43:51 +0100 5488032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5477519&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnm%2F2011%2F145963%2F Zinc oxide nanoparticles were obtained directly, avoiding the calcination step, by precipitation at 70°C in bicontinuous microemulsions stabilized with a mixture of surfactants sodium bis (2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate/sodium dodecyl sulfate (2/1, wt./wt.) containing 0.7 M zinc nitrate aqueous solution. Two concentrations of aqueous solution of precipitating agent sodium hydroxide were used under different dosing times on microemulsion. Characterization by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy allowed us to identify particles with an acicular rod-like morphology and a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure as small as 8.5 and 30 nm in average diameter and length, respectively. Productivities much higher than those typical in the preparation of zinc oxide nanoparticles v... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5477519 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:14:21 +0100 5477519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5477518&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fppar%2F2011%2F502631%2F This study tested whether the administration of fenofibrate would reduce blood pressure by attenuating plasma IL-6 and renal expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), while increasing expression of renal CYP4A during 7 days of DOCA-salt hypertension. We performed uni-nephrectomy on 12–14 week old male Swiss Webster mice and implanted biotelemetry devices in control, DOCA-salt (1.5 mg/g) treated mice with or without fenofibrate (500 mg/kg/day in corn oil, intragastrically). Fenofibrate significantly decreased mean arterial pressure and plasma IL-6. In kidney homogenates, fenofibrate increased CYP4A and decreased COX-2 expression. There were no differences in renal cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily c, polypeptide 23 (CYP2C23) and soluble expoxide hydrolase (sEH) express... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5477518 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:14:21 +0100 5477518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5477517&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2011%2F219859%2F This cross-sectional study used Geographic Information System methods to compare sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of children enrolled and not enrolled in a primary care network to determine the suitability of the network to estimate population-based disease rates. We validated the network surveillance system by comparing invasive pneumococcal disease rates between network and nonnetwork children using population-based surveillance data. Among the study population of 130300 children, network children were more likely to be female, Black, non-Hispanic, younger, and receive Medicaid. These differences varied across neighborhoods, however, adjusting for neighborhood characteristics did not significantly change observed differences. Rates of invasive pneumococcal disease were not ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5477517 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:14:21 +0100 5477517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5477516&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijped%2F2011%2F143872%2F Conclusions. PVL-negative CC89-SCCmec type II strains are the most predominant strains among the CA-MRSA strains circulating in the community in Japan. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5477516 Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:14:21 +0100 5477516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5389048&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjbb%2F2011%2F809765%2F Neuronal apoptosis inhibitor proteins (NAIPs) are members of Nod-like receptor (NLR) protein family. Recent research demostrated that some NAIP genes were strongly associated with both innate immunity and many inflammatory diseases in humans. However, no similar phenomena have been reported in other mammals. Furthermore, some NAIP genes have undergone pseudogenization or have been lost during the evolution of some higher mammals. We therefore aimed to determine if functional divergence had occurred, and if natural selection had played an important role in the evolution of these genes. The results showed that NAIP genes have undergone pseudogenization and functional divergence, driven by positive selection. Positive selection has also influenced NAIP protein structure, resulting in further ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5389048 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:11:58 +0100 5389048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316497&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faot%2F2011%2F723901%2F We analyze numerically correspondence between the mechanical action, experienced by a spherical microparticle, and the internal energy flows in the light field incident on the particle. The inhomogeneous incident field is modelled by superposition of two plane waves; the mechanical action is calculated via the Mie theory for dielectric and conducting particles of different sizes and optical properties. It is shown that both spin and orbital components of the field momentum can produce the mechanical action whose value and sign depend on many additional details of the field-particle interaction. Besides, forces that are not associated with any sort of the energy flow (e.g., the gradient force owing to the inhomogeneous intensity and the polarization-dependent dipole force emerging due to in... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316497 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 12:59:17 +0100 5316497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316496&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjtran%2F2011%2F148457%2F Conclusions. Male donor to female recipient discordance had no discernable effect on immunologically mediated kidney graft outcomes in the era of modern immunosuppression. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316496 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 12:59:17 +0100 5316496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316495&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcrim%2F2011%2F126209%2F We report a case of a 42-year-old female with 10-year history of progressively worsening peripheral neuropathy, hypothyroidism, and skin changes who presents with dyspnea secondary to recurrent pleural and pericardial effusions. Prior to her arrival, her peripheral neuropathy was believed to be secondary to chronic demyelinating inflammatory polyneuropathy (CDIP) given elevated protein in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) which was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and corticosteroids. Unfortunately, her peripheral neuropathy did not have any improvement. Incidentally, patient was found to have splenomegaly and papilledema on physical exam. Serum protein electrophoresis showed a monoclonal pattern of IgA lambda. Patient met the diagnostic criteria for POEMS (polyneuropathy, orga... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316495 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 12:59:17 +0100 5316495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5316494&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2012%2F480714%2F The hepatoprotective potential of hispolon against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage was evaluated in preventive models in rats. Male rats were intraperitoneally treated with hispolon or silymarin once daily for 7 consecutive days. One hour after the final hispolon or silymarin treatment, the rats were injected with CCl4. Administration with hispolon or silymarin significantly decreased the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in serum and increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione (GSH) content and decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in liver compared with CCl4-treated group. Liver histopathology also showed that hispolon reduced the incidence of liver lesions ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5316494 Sat, 15 Oct 2011 12:59:17 +0100 5316494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5305329&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fchrp%2F2011%2F218431%2F Conclusions. The etiology of urinary tract infections and their susceptibility profiles are important to be evaluated in countries like Lebanon where a severe misuse of antibiotics at all levels is observed. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5305329 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:13:03 +0100 5305329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5305328&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjtd%2F2011%2F696548%2F Reliable equations of state are very important in the design of refrigeration cycles, since thermodynamic properties can be calculated by simple differentiation. In this paper, a new method to calculate the parameters of any two-parameter equation of state is presented. The method is based on the use of Clapeyron equation and the experimental PVT data. This method was tested on a newly developed cubic equation of state and proved to be simple and fast. Results showed orders of magnitude enhancement in prediction of the saturated vapor pressure even near the critical region. The Percent Absolute Average Deviation (%AAD) was always less than 0.1 in the studied cases. It also showed that the parameters calculated using the original equation deviate strongly from the “experimental&#8... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5305328 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:13:03 +0100 5305328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5305327&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faans%2F2011%2F617427%2F The Self-Organizing Map (SOM) algorithm is widely used for building topographic maps of data represented in a vectorial space, but it does not operate with dissimilarity data. Soft Topographic Map (STM) algorithm is an extension of SOM to arbitrary distance measures, and it creates a map using a set of units, organized in a rectangular lattice, defining data neighbourhood relationships. In the last years, a new standard for identifying bacteria using genotypic information began to be developed. In this new approach, phylogenetic relationships of bacteria could be determined by comparing a stable part of the bacteria genetic code, the so-called “housekeeping genes.” The goal of this work is to build a topographic representation of bacteria clusters, by means of self-organizing m... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5305327 Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:13:03 +0100 5305327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5275007&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpri%2F2011%2F306921%2F Primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of vagina is an extremely rare disease. There have been only 26 previously reported cases in literature. Here, we report a case of primary small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of vagina. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed tumor cells positive for synaptophysin, chromogranin, and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5275007 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:10:56 +0100 5275007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262008&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijvm%2F2011%2F364046%2F Conclusions. TEVAR produces better in-hospital outcomes in emergent TBAD than open repair, but further longitudinal analysis is required. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262008 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262007&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjs%2F2011%2F581910%2F A new highly accurate closed-form capacitance calculation model has been developed to calculate the capacitance of capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUTs) built with square diaphragms. The model has been developed by using a two-dimensional polynomial function that more accurately predicts the deflection curve of a square diaphragm deformed under the influence of a uniform external pressure and also takes account of the fringing field capacitances. The model has been verified by comparing the model-predicted deflection profiles and capacitance values with experimental results published elsewhere and finite element analysis (FEA) carried out by the authors for different material properties, geometric specifications, and loading conditions. New model-calculated capacitance va... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262007 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262006&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fvmi%2F2011%2F281846%2F The purpose of this paper was to evaluate the efficacy of topical skin lipid complex (SLC) in canine atopic dermatitis (AD). Eight dogs with chronic AD and no improvement of main therapy in symptoms, erythema, lichenification, excoriation, and alopecia in the previous month were treated with SLC topically as adjunct therapy at lesion sites twice weekly for 12 weeks. A statistically significant reduction (26.0%, P<0.05) in the third version of the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI-03) modification from baseline was recorded 6 weeks after treatment, with marked reduction in the erythema subscore (36.2%, P<0.005). A significant reduction in excoriation and alopecia subscores was observed 6 weeks after treatment (39.9%, P<0.05 and 19.9&... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262006 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262005&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnm%2F2011%2F723178%2F Curcumin, a low-molecular-weight natural polyphenol mainly found in the plant Curcuma longa (turmeric), is widely used as a food colorant and as a potential protective agent against several chronic diseases including cancer, HIV-infection, neurological, cardiovascular, and skin diseases. Moreover, evidences from long-term use process and preclinical trials have demonstrated low toxicity of curcumin, even at relatively high doses. However, it has been well known that the application of curcumin was limited owing to its water insolubility, instability, and poor bioavailability. For decades, many attempts have been made to compensate for these disadvantages, with the development of improved delivery platforms as the feasible approaches. The past ten years witnessed the encouraging progress in... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262005 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262004&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjo%2F2011%2F232037%2F Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematologic malignancy and remains incurable, primarily due to the treatment-refractory/resistant nature of the disease. A rational approach to this compelling challenge is to develop new drugs that act synergistically with existing effective agents. This approach will reduce drug concentrations, avoid treatment resistance, and also improve treatment effectiveness by targeting new and nonredundant pathways in MM. Toward this goal, we examined the antimyeloma effects of MAL3-101, a member of a new class of non-ATP-site inhibitors of the heat shock protein (Hsp) 70 molecular chaperone. We discover... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262004 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262004 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262003&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fahci%2F2011%2F594353%2F The control theory of driving suggests that driver distraction can be analyzed as a breakdown of control at three levels. Common approach for analyzing distraction experimentally is to utilize capacity-based measures to assess distraction at the level of operational control. Three driving simulation experiments with 61 participants were organized to evaluate which kind of measures could be used to analyze drivers' tactical visual sampling models and the related effects of distraction while searching textual information on in-car display. The effects of two different text types were evaluated. The utilized capacity-based measures seemed to be insufficient for revealing participants' tactical behaviors or effects of text type. The measures of workload or performance did not indicate ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262003 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262002&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijps%2F2011%2F521985%2F Natural rubber based composites have been prepared using various amounts of two fillers: conventional Corax N220 carbon black or electrically conductive carbon black Printex XE-2B which has a very high specific surface area. The composites have been studied by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, dielectric thermal analysis and SEM. It has been established that all vulcanizates investigated are in the glass state in the −80∘C to −40∘C interval. The storage modulus increases with the increasing filler content in the −40∘C to +80∘C interval when the vulcanizates are in the highly elastic state. DETA shows that the increase in filler content leads to an increase in the dielectric permittivity (ε′). ε′ also increases ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262002 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262001&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcggr%2F2011%2F673181%2F Studies of the psychological well-being of elderly living alone have yielded inconsistent results. Few investigators have distinguished living alone from loneliness in the same study. Thus, the present study examined the independent and interactive effects of living alone and loneliness on depressive symptoms (GDS score) and quality of life (SF-12 MCS score) in a prospective 2-year follow-up cohort study of 2808 community-dwelling older adults (aged ≥55 years) in Singapore, controlling for baseline covariates. In cross-sectional analysis, loneliness was a more robust predictor of GDS score than living arrangements; living alone, when controlled for loneliness, was not associated with GDS score. GDS score associated with living alone was worse for those who felt lonely than for those... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262001 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5262000&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fophmed%2F2011%2F785686%2F We present our observations on two cases of diffuse choroidal hemangiomas with exudative retinal detachment associated with SWS treated with Ruthenium-106 plaque therapy. Outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and regression in tumor thickness measured by ultrasonography. The initial BCVA of the affected eyes was counting fingers at 1 meter and light projection. Pretreatment tumors thickness was 3.5 mm and 4.7 mm. In a follow-up period of 18–24 months, significant reduction in thickness of choroidal hemangiomas up to 1.2 mm and 1.4 mm with prompt resolution of exudative retinal detachment was observed. BCVA achieved 20/200 and 20/400, respectively. The findings in this paper indicate that Ruthenium-106 plaque therapy is effective in treatmen... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5262000 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5262000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261999&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fstni%2F2011%2F862812%2F In water-cooled nuclear power reactors, significant quantities of hydrogen could be produced following a postulated loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) along with nonavailability of emergency core cooling system (ECCS). Passive autocatalytic recombiners (PAR) are implemented in the containment of water-cooled power reactors to mitigate the risk of hydrogen combustion. In the presence of hydrogen with available oxygen, a catalytic reaction occurs spontaneously at the catalyst surfaces below conventional ignition concentration limits and temperature and even in presence of steam. Heat of reaction produces natural convection flow through the enclosure and promotes mixing in the containment. For the assessment of the PAR performance in terms of maximum temperature of catalyst surface and outlet hy... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261999 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261998&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fotolaryngology%2F2011%2F625185%2F Severe benign lymphoid hyperplasia (LH) is unusual in the head and neck region, but the diagnosis of LH is of clinical importance as it may be confused with malignant lymphoma, both on clinical examination and pathologically. While the etiology is poorly understood, a number of previous theories exist, which are included here in the context of a literature review. In this paper we present a case of severe pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia causing airway obstruction and requiring tracheotomy and subsequent surgical debulking. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261998 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261997&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fija%2F2011%2F652404%2F Field studies were conducted to characterize the genetic nature of resistance to southern blight (caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.) exhibited by the cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] cultivars Carolina Cream and Brown Crowder and to determine if a genetic relationship exists for this resistance between the two cultivars. Examination of the comparative frequency distributions of the parental and progeny populations of the “Carolina Cream” x “Magnolia Blackeye” and “Brown Crowder” x “Magnolia Blackeye” crosses and the corresponding segregation data indicates that the southern blight resistances exhibited by “Carolina Cream” and “Brown Crowder” are conditioned by single dominant genes. Examination of the segregation... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261997 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261996&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fdm%2F2011%2F741293%2F A 64-year-old woman with hepatitis C was treated using combination therapy with peginterferon α-2a and ribavirin. After 3 months, she presented with raised nodules on her knees and elbows. After 8 months, she developed painful subcutaneous nodules on her forearms. We diagnosed sarcoidosis with both plaques and subcutaneous nodules associated with combination therapy with peginterferon α-2a and ribavirin. Sarcoidosis with both plaques and subcutaneous nodules is very rare. The patient had a sustained Th2 response in the liver. And a sustained Th1 response occurred only in the skin. It is likely that, for this reason, sarcoidosis was localized to the skin, and the patient developed sarcoidosis with both plaques and subcutaneous nodules. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261996 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261995&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2011%2F204613%2F Some properties of the weak subdifferential are considered in this paper. By using the definition and properties of the weak subdifferential which are described in the papers (Azimov and Gasimov, 1999; Kasimbeyli and Mammadov, 2009; Kasimbeyli and Inceoglu, 2010), the author proves some theorems connecting weak subdifferential in nonsmooth and nonconvex analysis. It is also obtained necessary optimality condition by using the weak subdifferential in this paper. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261995 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261994&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmpe%2F2011%2F609189%2F This paper is concerned with the existence of monotone positive solutions for an elastic beam equation with nonlinear boundary conditions. By applying monotone iteration method, we not only obtain the existence of monotone positive solutions but also establish iterative schemes for approximating the solutions. It is worth mentioning that these iterative schemes start off with zero function or quadratic function, which is very useful and feasible for computational purpose. An example is also included to illustrate the main results obtained. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261994 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261993&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjamop%2F2011%2F295304%2F Oxygen-treated trimethylsilane (TMS) plasma-polymerized films are investigated using rotating polarizer and analyzer ellipsometer. Aging process and composition of the samples are studied. Coordinated X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profiling studies on these films is presented for more detailed understanding of the aging process as well as the modeling of these films. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261993 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261992&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjbb%2F2011%2F307297%2F Anticancer immune responses can be enhanced by immune intervention that promotes complex biological mechanisms involving several cellular populations. The classical immune monitoring for biological-based cancer clinical trials is often based on single-cell analysis. However, the overall effect could be lost by such a reductionist approach explaining the lack of correlation among clinical and immunological endpoints often reported. Microarray technology could give the possibility of studying in a multiparametric setting the immune therapy effects. The application of microarray is leading to an improved understanding of the immune responses to tumor immunotherapy. In fact, analysis of cancer vaccine-induced host responses using microarrays is proposed as valuable alternative to the standard ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261992 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261991&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fmi%2F2011%2F606718%2F We have investigated whether an oxygen/ozone (95%O2/5%O3) mixture would have potential against the formation of experimental postsurgical peritoneal adhesions. In two groups of rats, one control intraperitoneally injected with 3 mL/rat of O2 and one intraperitoneally injected with oxygen/ozone mixture (3 mL/rat equivalent to 300 μg/kg ozone), we induced a midline laparotomy and an enterotomy at the level of the ileum to encourage the formation of peritoneal adhesions. Samples were taken from the parietal peritoneal tissue to assess the formation of adhesions 0 and 10 days after the surgical procedure and to assess the levels of ubiquitin and 20S proteasome. We found decreased formation of postsurgical peritoneal adhesions after treatment of the rats wit... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261991 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261990&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fsurgery%2F2011%2F587198%2F Discussion. To our knowledge, this is the first case of both serial episodes of gastric pneumatosis and gastric mucosal ischemia as a precipitating factor for the development of gastric emphysema. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261990 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261989&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fddns%2F2011%2F596437%2F We are concerned with second-order discrete boundary value problems and obtain some sufficient conditions for the existence of at least one positive solution by using the fixed point theorem due to Krasnosel'skii on a cone. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261989 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261988&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcrim%2F2011%2F162709%2F We report a rare case of primary vulval rhabdoid tumor in an adult. The diagnosis was confirmed using the recently emerging INI1/BAF47 immunostain. We also demonstrate the expression of ER and PR hormonal receptors by the tumor cells. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261988 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261987&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fcardiology%2F2011%2F345721%2F We report a case of a quadricuspid aortic valve diagnosed by 3-dimentional transthoracic echocardiography. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261987 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261986&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faaa%2F2011%2F635851%2F The nonhomogeneous initial boundary value problem for the two-component Camassa-Holm equation, which describes a generalized formulation for the shallow water wave equation, on an interval is investigated. A local in time existence theorem and a uniqueness result are achieved. Next by using the fixed-point technique, a result on the global asymptotic stabilization problem by means of a boundary feedback law is considered. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261986 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261985&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fcggr%2F2011%2F154246%2F Current US public policy decisions will have impact on national plans to care for the aging American baby boomer population over the next several decades. The recent health care legislative debate has been largely about the structure of health care for those still too young to be covered by Medicare, but the legislation may have important implications for the average rates of accumulating chronic illness and disability in midlife and influence the care needs for that cohort of individuals even after they become elderly. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261985 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261984&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fstni%2F2011%2F560157%2F A specialized module VAPEX-M has been developed and implemented as a part of an integral code, SOCRAT, to enable the modeling of fuel-coolant interactions (FCIs) during severe accidents. The mathematical model and correlations for the main physical processes are described. Results of computational analysis of three experimental series reported in the literature are presented. The calculations were carried out by the combined SOCRAT/VAPEX code and were aimed at validation of the predictive capabilities of the code. The experiments chosen cover a wide range of physical parameters, which enables different aspects of the code to be verified, that is, drag correlations (MAGICO-2000), evaporation rate (QUEOS), fuel fragmentation, and interaction with the coolant in all complexity (FARO). General... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261984 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261983&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2011%2F961457%2F In this study, axially symmetric, unsteady, Large Eddy Simulation (LES), and Ffowcs Williams and Hawkins (FWH) equations were solved by the implicit-time formulation. For the spatial discretization, second order upwind scheme was employed. In addition, dynamic mesh model was used to where the ballistic domain changed with time due to the motion of bullet. Results obtained for muzzle flow field and for noise recorded were compared with those obtained from experimental data; these two batches of results were in agreement. Five cases of gunshot including one model of an unsuppressed rifle and four models of suppressors were simulated. Besides, serial images of species distributions and velocity vectors-pressure contours in suppressors and near muzzle field were displayed. The sound pressure l... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261983 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261982&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fvasmed%2F2011%2F901925%2F Conclusion. Delayed migration of coil following embolization of an intracranial aneurysm is an extremely rare occurrence. An asymptomatic presentation, as in our patient, is even more unique. The stent-like configuration of the migrated spiral coil loop probably prevented complete occlusion of the blood vessel. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261982 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261981&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Faess%2F2011%2F658569%2F Soils from bulk pesticide mixing and loading (mix-load) sites are often contaminated with a complex mixture of pesticides, herbicides, and other organic compounds used in pesticide formulations that limits the success of remediation efforts. Therefore, there is a need to find remediation strategies that can successfully clean up these mix-load site soils. This paper examined the degradation of atrazine (2-chloro-4-ethylamino-6-isopropylamino-S-triazine; AT) and alachlor (2-chloro-2′, 6′-diethyl-N-[methoxymethyl]-acetanilide) in contaminated mix-load site soil utilizing an extracellular fungal enzyme solution derived from the white rot fungus, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, grown in a packed bed bioreactor. Thirty-two percent of AT and 54% of AL were transformed in the biome... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261981 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261981 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261980&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fvetmed%2F2011%2F149648%2F A 10-year-old spayed female Papillon weighing 4.0 kg presented with a history of persistent hematuria and pollakiuria. Concurrent bladder calculi, a mammary gland tumor, and nonazotemic early stage of chronic kidney disease with contracted kidneys were noted in this dog. The dog underwent cystectomy, unilateral mastectomy, and intraoperative renal biopsy. On the basis of histopathological analysis of renal biopsy results, it was suspected that renal injury of the dog was caused by persistent hypertension, and a follow-up examination revealed severe hypertension. The dog was treated with a combination of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and calcium channel blocker. The treatment produced a good outcome in the dog, and there has been no progression of the chronic kidney dise... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261980 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5261979&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fdentistry%2F2011%2F435709%2F Sliding mechanic has become a popular method for space closure with developments in preadjusted edgewise appliance. Furthermore, various space closing auxiliaries have been developed and evaluated extensively for their clinical efficiency. Their effectiveness enhanced with optimum force magnitude and low-load deflection rate (LDR)/force decay. With the advent of NiTi springs in orthodontics, LDRs have been markedly reduced. For use of NiTi, clinician has to depend upon prefabricated closed coil springs. “Open Coil Retraction Spring (OCRS)” is developed utilizing NiTi open-coil spring for orthodontic space closure. This paper describes fabrication and clinical application of OCRS which have number of advantages. It sustains low LDR with optimum force magnitude. Its design is a... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5261979 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:49 +0100 5261979 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5239204&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fotolaryngology%2F2011%2F430809%2F We present an unusual case of EMP of the palatine tonsil from a tertiary care university hospital. We discuss the histopathologic and radiologic evaluation as well as treatment of EMP. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5239204 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:52:05 +0100 5239204 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5239203&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjobes%2F2011%2F528401%2F Obesity has received much attention worldwide in association with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. At present, bariatric surgery is the only effective treatment for obesity in which long-term weight loss is achieved in patients. By contrast, pharmacological interventions for obesity are usually followed by weight regain. Although the exact mechanisms of long-term weight loss following bariatric surgery are yet to be fully elucidated, several gut hormones have been implicated. Gut hormones play a critical role in relaying signals of nutritional and energy status from the gut to the central nervous system, in order to regulate food intake. Cholecystokinin, peptide YY, pancreatic polypeptide, glucagon-like peptide-1, and oxyntomodulin act through distinct ye... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5239203 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:52:05 +0100 5239203 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5239202&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijps%2F2011%2F570149%2F The interactions in poly(oxyethylene) (E) – poly(oxybutylene) (B) of EB or EBE type block copolymers-sodium dodoecyl sulfate (SDS) or dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) and/or t-octylphenoxy polyethoxyethanol, (TX-100) have been monitored as a function of surfactant concentration and temperature. The addition of ionic surfactants to copolymer micellar solutions in general induced not only shape transition from spherical to prolate ellipsoids at 30∘C in the copolymer micelles but also destabilize them and even suppress the micelle formation at high surfactant loading. DTAB destabilizes the copolymer micelles more than SDS. TX-100, being nonionic, however, forms stable mixed micelles. The block copolymer-surfactant complexes are hydrophilic in nature and are characterized ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5239202 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:52:05 +0100 5239202 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197112&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjs%2F2011%2F302380%2F We present a theoretical analysis of an all optical low-pass filter for spectrometer-based interrogators. The low-pass filter is based on the application of a luminescent material onto the detector. Light absorption and continuous light reemission lead to an advanced attenuation of high FBG signal frequencies. An analytic derivation of the system transfer function and numerical signal simulations are presented. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197112 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:07:01 +0100 5197112 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197111&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fotolaryngology%2F2011%2F191852%2F We describe a case of temporal granulocytic sarcoma in a 26-year-old patient after apparent molecular remission of an acute myeloid leukaemia. He complained of otodynia with hearing loss and facial paralysis on the right side. He was treated with chemotherapy and self-transplant haematopoietic stem cells. He was cured clinically, molecular remission of the haematological processes was achieved, and he remained asymptomatic for three years. Facial paralysis and hearing loss associated with temporal GS should be treated with chemotherapy. Aggressive surgery may complicate the clinical course of the disease and it should be avoided. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197111 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:07:01 +0100 5197111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197110&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijce%2F2011%2F967198%2F A model-based predictive control system is designed for a copolymerization reactor. These processes typically have such a high nonlinear dynamic behavior to make practically ineffective the conventional control techniques, still so widespread in process and polymer industries. A predictive controller is adopted in this work, given the success this family of controllers is having in many chemical processes and oil refineries, especially due to their possibility of including bounds on both manipulated and controlled variables. The solution copolymerization of methyl methacrylate with vinyl acetate in a continuous stirred tank reactor is considered as an industrial case study for the analysis of the predictive control robustness in the field of petrochemical and polymer production. Both regul... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197110 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:07:01 +0100 5197110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197109&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2012%2F623879%2F We investigated the antidiabetic potential of proanthocyanidin and its oligomeric form in STZ-induced diabetic model rats and db/db type 2 diabetic mice. Proanthocyanidin ameliorated the diabetic condition by significant decreases of serum glucose, glycosylated protein, and serum urea nitrogen as well as decreases of urinary protein and renal-AGE in STZ-induced diabetic rats and decrease of serum glucose as well as significant decrease of glycosylated protein in db/db type 2 diabetic mice. The suppression of ROS generation and elevation of the GSH/GSSG ratio were also observed in the groups administered proanthocyanidin. Moreover, proanthocyanidin, especially its oligomeric form, affected the inflammatory process with the regulation of related protein expression, iNOS, COX-2 and upstream r... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197109 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:07:01 +0100 5197109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197108&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fdentistry%2F2011%2F515713%2F There is a great diversity of restorative materials and techniques for deciduous molars with significant coronal destruction, including resin composite restorations and biologic restorations (portions of natural teeth). By using 4 evaluation methods, this study aimed at longitudinally evaluating the effectiveness of restorations in the deciduous molars of a patient having high caries activity, using adhesive techniques. The evaluation methods consisted of the fibre-optic transillumination method, clinical evaluation based on the United States Public Health Service criteria, radiographs, and an indirect method, scanning electron microscopy. Despite the patient's poor biofilm control, the restorative techniques were shown to be efficacious, particularly the biologic restorative technique... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197108 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:07:01 +0100 5197108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5197107&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fcrim%2Fid%2F2011%2F512607%2F A young female presented with classical complaints suggestive of peptic ulcer disease leading to signs of peritonitis. The said patient after being subjected to baseline workup was subjected to laparotomy which proved to be a surgical surprise. A live ascaris lumbricoides worm was seen pouting out of a duodenal perforation. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5197107 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:07:01 +0100 5197107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070749&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2012%2F741638%2F Aqueous extract of Indigofera suffruticosa leaves obtained by infusion was used to evaluate the oviposition, its effect on development of eggs and larvae, and morphological changes in larvae of Aedes aegypti. The bioassays were carried out with aqueous extract in different concentrations on eggs, larvae, and female mosquitoes, and the morphological changes were observed in midgut of larvae. The extract showed repellent activity on A. aegypti mosquitoes, reducing significantly the egg laying by females with control substrate (343 (185–406)) compared with the treated substrate (88 (13–210)). No eclosion of A. aegypti eggs at different concentrations studied was observed. The controleclodedin 35%. At concentration of 250 μg/mL, 93.3% of larvae remained in ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070749 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070748&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjnume%2F2011%2F235389%2F Previous research has shown that mifepristone can prevent and reverse weight gain in animals and human subjects taking antipsychotic medications. This proof-of-concept study tested whether a more potent and selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist could block dietary-induced weight gain and increase insulin sensitivity in mice. Ten-week-old, male, C57BL/6J mice were fed a diet containing 60% fat calories and water supplemented with 11% sucrose for 4 weeks. Groups (n=8) received one of the following: CORT 108297 (80 mg/kg QD), CORT 108297 (40 mg/kg BID), mifepristone (30 mg/kg BID), rosiglitazone (10 mg/kg QD), or vehicle. Compared to mice receiving a high-fat, high-sugar diet plus vehicle, mice receiving a high-fat, high-sugar diet plus either mifepristone o... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070748 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070747&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fidog%2F2011%2F824627%2F Conclusion. Chlamydial HSP60-1 IgG and M. genitalium IgG antibodies are in this study associated with epithelial ovarian tumors in some subsets, which support the hypothesis linking upper-genital tract infections and ovarian tumor development. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070747 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070746&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fsage%2Fendocrinology%2F2011%2F810251%2F Conclusions. In conclusion, 65 patients (10.76%) had TSH levels between 4.5 and 20 in our study, and it is a considerable amount. Large-scale studies are needed to clarify the effects of SCH on myocardial infarction both on etiologic and prognostic grounds. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070746 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070745&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fsage%2Forthopedics%2F2011%2F852390%2F The diagnostic value of the vacuum phenomenon between the femoral head and the acetabulum, and time frame of its occurrence after application of traction is an important clinical question. The resulting arthrogram may outline the shape, location, and extent of cartilage lesions prior to arthroscopy of the hip joint. The presence, duration, and diagnostic information of the vacuum phenomenon were evaluated in 24 hips that underwent arthroscopy. The operative diagnosis was compared to the results of imaging studies and to findings obtained during a traction trial prior to arthroscopy. Indications for arthroscopy included avascular necrosis, labral tears, loose bodies, osteoarthrosis, and intractable hip pain. In 22 hips the vacuum phenomenon developed within 30 seconds after application of ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070745 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070744&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fpsyche%2F2011%2F276376%2F Parasitic wasps are important natural enemies of several insect pests. They use a variety of methods to modulate their insect host for their progeny to develop. For example, the female wasp needs to avoid or suppress the host immune responses by introducing venom with or without virus like particles and/or polydnaviruses. The aim of this paper is to provide a synthesis of current knowledge regarding the immunosuppression of host immunity with venom in parasitoids that are devoid of symbiotic viruses. Special emphasis is given through disabling host hemocytes by venom of the endoparasitoid Pimpla turionellae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) with comparisons of venoms from other parasitoid species. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070744 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070743&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjam%2F2011%2F540274%2F The aim of this paper is to investigate the solution and the superstability of the Pexiderized Lobacevski equation f((x+y)/2)2=g(x)h(y), where f, g, h : G2→ℂ are unknown functions on an Abelian semigroup (G,+). The obtained result is a generalization of Gǎvruţa's result in 1994 and Kim's result in 2010. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070743 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070742&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjcnc%2F2011%2F150762%2F How to accurately characterize similarities of entities is the basis of detecting virtual community structure of an Internet social network. This paper proposes a supernetwork based approach of quantitative similarity evaluation among entities with two indices of friend relation and interest similarity. The supernetwork theory is firstly introduced to model the complex relationship of online social network entities by integrating three basic networks: entity, action, and interest and establishing three kinds of mappings: from entity to action, from action to interest, and from entity to interest, that is, one hidden relation mined through the transfer characteristic of visible mappings. And further similarity degree between two entities is calculated by weighting the values of two indices:... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070742 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070741&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fijac%2F2011%2F862692%2F Pyrene-modified dextrin (Py-Dex) was synthesized via the Schiff base reaction between reducing end of dextrins and 1-aminopyrene, and then self-assemblies of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) were fabricated through the tunable tethering of pyrene to SWNTs by dextrin chains. The Py-Dex-SWNTs assemblies were found to be significantly water-soluble because of the synergistic effect of dextrin chains and pyrene moieties. Py-Dex and Py-Dex-SWNTs were adequately characterized by NMR, UV-vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The tethering effect of dextrin toward pyrene moieties was clearly revealed and was found to be tunable by adjusting the length of dextrin c... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070741 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070740&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fgm%2F2011%2F107087%2F The Echinococcus granulosus tapeworm causes hepatic echinococcosis. It is endemic in the Mediterranean region, Middle East, and South America. Human infection is secondary to accidental consumption of ova in feces. Absorption through the bowel wall and entrance into the portal circulation leads to liver infection. This case involves a 34 y/o Moroccan male with an echinococcal liver cyst. His chief complaint was RUQ pain. The patient was treated with albendazole and praziquantel. His PMH and PSH was noncontributory. Patient was not on any other medications. ROS was otherwise unremarkable. The patient was AF VSS. He was tender to palpation in RUQ. Liver function tests were normal. Echinococcal titers were positive. CT demonstrated a large cystic lesion in the right lobe of the liver m... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070740 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070739&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Ftransplantation%2F2011%2F153493%2F We report the case of a 42-year-old women with end-stage renal disease due to lupus nephritis and a history of bilateral thrombosis of iliac arteries caused by antiphospholipid antibodies. Occlusion had been treated by the bilateral placement of wall stents which precluded vascular anastomosis. The patient was transplanted with a right kidney procured by laparoscopic nephrectomy from her HLA semi-identical sister. The recipient had left nephrectomy after laparoscopical transperitoneal dissection. The donor kidney was orthotopically transplanted with end-to-end anastomosis of graft vessels to native renal vessels and of the graft and native ureter. Although, the patient received full anticoagulation because of a cardiac valve and antiphospholipid antibodies, she had no postoperative complic... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070739 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070738&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fobgyn%2F2011%2F281391%2F Conclusion. Angiogenic factors may provide evidence to support a diagnosis of preeclampsia in patients with preexisting renal disease and proteinuria, conditions in which the classical definition of hypertension and proteinuria cannot be used. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070738 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070737&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fnephrology%2F2011%2F413532%2F Renal colic is a common condition seen in the emergency department (ED). Our recent study showed that measures of electrical conductance may be used as supplementary diagnostic methods for patients with acute renal colic. Here, we describe the case of a 30-year-old male subject with a left ureteral calculus who presented with frequency and normal-looking urine. He had already visited the outpatient department, but in vain. Normal urinalysis and nonobstructive urogram were reported at that time. Two days later, he was admitted to the ED because of abdominal pain in the left lower quadrant. The urinalysis did not detect red blood cells. Ultrasonography did not indicate hydronephrosis. The meridian electrical conductance and index of sympathovagal balance were found to be abnormal. High level... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070737 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070736&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fradiology%2F2011%2F539340%2F We report a successful embolisation of posttraumatic superior mesenteric artery (SMA) branch pseudoaneurysm using microcoil, in a patient with short bowel syndrome who was successfully transplanted three months after embolisation. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070736 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070735&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fid%2F2011%2F372470%2F We report the case of two patients who presented with focal orbital myositis which are rare localization for Lyme disease. Myositis were confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Diagnosis criteria for Borrelia burgdorferi (B. burgdorferi) infection was supported by (i) medical history (tick bite in an endemic area), (ii) systemic clinical findings (Erythema migrans, neurological manifestation or arthritis), (iii) positive Lyme serology and/or the detection of B. burgdorferi DNA by polymerase chain reaction, as well as (iv) exclusion of other infectious and inflammatory causes. The current cases are reviewed in the context of findings fr... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070735 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:57:28 +0100 5070735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5000123&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fvmi%2F2011%2F905768%2F Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is one of the highly contagious diseases of domestic animals. Effective control of this disease needs sensitive, specific, and quick diagnostic tools at each tier of control strategy. In this paper we have outlined various diagnostic approaches from old to new generation in a nutshell. Presently FMD diagnosis is being carried out using techniques such as Virus Isolation (VI), Sandwich-ELISA (S-ELISA), Liquid-Phase Blocking ELISA (LPBE), Multiplex-PCR (m-PCR), and indirect ELISA (DIVA), and real time-PCR can be used for detection of antibody against nonstructural proteins. Nucleotide sequencing for serotyping, microarray as well as recombinant antigen-based detection, biosensor, phage display, and nucleic-acid-based diagnostic are on the way for rapid and specif... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5000123 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:07:53 +0100 5000123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5000122&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fjeph%2F2011%2F948789%2F This study examined commuting patterns among 23,141 methadone patients enrolling in 84 opioid treatment programs (OTPs) in the United States. Patients completed an anonymous one-page survey. A linear mixed model analysis was used to predict distance traveled to the OTP. More than half (60%) the patients traveled <10 miles and 6% travelled between 50 and 200 miles to attend an OTP; 8% travelled across a state border to attend an OTP. In the multivariate model (n=17,792), factors significantly (P<.05) associated with distance were, residing in the Southeast or Midwest, low urbanicity, area of the patient's ZIP code, younger age, non-Hispanic white race/ethnicity, prescription opioid abuse, and no heroin use. A significant number of OTP patients travel considerab... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5000122 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 16:07:53 +0100 5000122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4562254&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2011%2F185672%2F Poor maternal nutritional status and substandard antenatal care, which result in increased women's risk, low birth weight and stillbirth, afflict many countries with weak or emerging economies even today. Studies that address the effect of extending nutrition awareness among pregnant women to the net outcome of pregnancy remain scarce. We aimed to compare and contrast the effect of a pragmatic nutrition awareness program for expectant mothers (NAPEM) on birth weight of the newborn with a control group who received no such nutrition awareness activity. The effect of variables of mode of newborn delivery, associated complications at birth, and APGAR score of the newborn were also assessed. A pragmatic intervention trial of an antenatal care (ANC) program that consisted in nutrition aware... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4562254 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:33:54 +0100 4562254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4562253&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2011%2F201953%2F Propolis, a resinous compound produced by Apis mellifera L. bees, is known to possess a variety of biological activities and is applied in the therapy of various infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of propolis ethanol extract (PE) and propolis microparticles (PMs) obtained from a sample of Brazilian propolis against clinical yeast isolates of importance in the vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). PE was used to prepare the microparticles. Yeast isolates (n=89), obtained from vaginal exudates of patients with VVC, were exposed to the PE and the PMs. Moreover, the main antifungal drugs used in the treatment of VVC (Fluconazole, Voriconazole, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Miconazole and Amphotericin B) were also tested. Minimum inhibitory conce... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4562253 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:33:54 +0100 4562253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4562252&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2011%2F213021%2F A major safety concern with the use of herbal medicinal products (HMP) is their interactions with conventional medicines, which are often mediated via the cytochrome P450 (CYP) system. Echinacea is a widely used over-the-counter HMP, with proven immunomodulatory properties. Its increasing use makes research into its safety an urgent concern. Previously, we showed that Echinacea extracts and its alkylamides (thought to be important for Echinacea's immunomodulatory activity) mildly inhibit the enzymatic activity of the main drug metabolising CYP isoforms, but to this date, there is insufficient work on its ability to alter CYP expression levels. We now report for the first time the effect of a commercial Echinacea extract (Echinaforce) and four Echinacea alkylamides on the transcription of t... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4562252 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:33:54 +0100 4562252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4562251&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fecam%2F2011%2F750230%2F In this study, we demonstrated the effects of HS7 on the growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling suppression in human colon cancer cells. HS7 significantly inhibited proliferation of HT29, HCT116, and SW480 colon cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The apoptosis induction was evidenced by DNA fragmentation and subG1 accumulation, which was associated with increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of PARP. By using Tcf-dependent luciferase activity assay, HS7 was found to inhibit the β-catenin/Tcf transcriptional activities. In addition, HS7 strongly suppressed the binding of Tcf complexes to its DNA-binding site shown in electrophoretic mobility shift assay. This inhibition was further confirmed by the decreased p... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4562251 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:33:54 +0100 4562251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3800368&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F931530.html In this study we investigated the antimicrobial properties of the essential oil of Myrtus communis against clinical strains of M. tuberculosis and M. paratuberculosis. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3800368 Fri, 30 Jul 2010 06:04:36 +0100 3800368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3752027&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F753512.html Cryptosporidium spp. are coccidians, oocysts-forming apicomplexan protozoa, which complete their life cycle both in humans and animals, through zoonotic and anthroponotic transmission, causing cryptosporidiosis. The global burden of this disease is still underascertained, due to a conundrum transmission modality, only partially unveiled, and on a plethora of detection systems still inadequate or only partially applied for worldwide surveillance. In children, cryptosporidiosis encumber is even less recorded and often misidentified due to physiological reasons such as early-age unpaired immunological response. Furthermore, malnutrition in underdeveloped countries or clinical underestimation of protozoan etiology in developed countries contribute to the underestimation of the worldwide burden... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3752027 Thu, 15 Jul 2010 06:45:57 +0100 3752027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3716021&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F645834.html (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3716021 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 05:52:56 +0100 3716021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3688855&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F747892.html Prion disorders are infectious, neurodegenerative diseases that affect humans and animals. Susceptibility to some prion diseases such as kuru or the new variant of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in humans and scrapie in sheep and goats is influenced by polymorphisms of the coding region of the prion protein gene, while other prion disorders such as fatal familial insomnia, familial Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, or Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker disease in humans have an underlying inherited genetic basis. Several prion strains have been demonstrated experimentally in rodents and sheep. The progression and pathogenesis of disease is influenced by both genetic differences in the prion protein and prion strain. Some prion diseases only affect the central nervous system whereas others involve the peri... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3688855 Thu, 24 Jun 2010 05:51:57 +0100 3688855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3681572&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F109239.html Myelin forms an insulating sheath surrounding axons in the central and peripheral nervous systems and is essential for rapid propagation of neuronal action potentials. Demyelination is an acquired disorder in which normally formed myelin degenerates, exposing axons to the extracellular environment. The result is dysfunction of normal neuron-to-neuron communication and in many cases, varying degrees of axonal degeneration. Numerous central nervous system demyelinating disorders exist, including multiple sclerosis. Although demyelination is the major manifestation of most of the demyelinating diseases, recent studies have clearly documented concomitant axonal loss to varying degrees resulting in long-term disability. Axonal injury may occur secondary to myelin damage (outside-in model) or my... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3681572 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 05:51:38 +0100 3681572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3646368&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F615604.html The association between mental disorders (MDs) and iatrogenic complications after hip fracture surgery has been poorly studied. Among iatrogenic complications, nosocomial infections (NIs) are a major factor in hip fracture surgery. The aim of this paper was to determine whether patients with a MD and a hip fracture develop more NIs after hip surgery than patients with no MD. We studied 912 patients who underwent surgery for a hip fracture (223 patients with a MD who underwent surgery for a hip fracture and 689 control patients without a MD who also underwent surgery for a hip fracture) and followed them after surgery. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed using simple and multiple logistic regression analysis (confidence interval, crude and adjusted odds ratios, and P valu... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3646368 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 13:34:33 +0100 3646368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3612895&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F605125.html Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola are periodontal pathogens that express virulence factors associated with the pathogenesis of periodontitis. In this paper we tested the hypothesis that P. gingivalis and T. denticola are synergistic in terms of virulence; using a model of mixed microbial infection in rats. Groups of rats were orally infected with either P. gingivalis or T. denticola or mixed microbial infections for 7 and 12 weeks. P. gingivalis genomic DNA was detected more frequently by PCR than T. denticola. Both bacteria induced significantly high IgG, IgG2b, IgG1, IgG2a antibody levels indicating a stimulation of Th1 and Th2 immune response. Radiographic and morphometric measurements demonstrated that rats infected with the mixed infection exhibited significantly more a... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3612895 Mon, 31 May 2010 13:25:54 +0100 3612895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3593486&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F876450.html The evidence continues to mount that Chronic Lyme Disease (CLD) exists and must be addressed by the medical community if solutions are to be found. Four National Institutes of Health (NIH) trials validated the existence and severity of CLD. Despite the evidence, there are physicians who continue to deny the existence and severity of CLD, which can hinder efforts to find a solution. Recognizing CLD could facilitate efforts to avoid diagnostic delays of two years and durations of illness of 4.7 to 9 years described in the NIH trials. The risk to society of emerging antibiotic-resistant organisms should be weighed against the societal risks associated with failing to treat an emerging population saddled with CLD. The mixed long-term outcome in children could also be examined. Once we accept t... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3593486 Tue, 25 May 2010 13:27:08 +0100 3593486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3591214&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F412624.html Conclusions. This study showed that raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of TB among both the public and clinical communities is urgently needed. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3591214 Mon, 24 May 2010 13:25:19 +0100 3591214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3571336&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F380456.html Converging lines of clinical and epidemiological evidence suggest that viral infections in early developmental stages may be a causal factor in neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and autism-spectrum disorders. This etiological link, however, remains controversial in view of the lack of consistent and reproducible associations between viruses and mental illness. Animal models of virus-induced neurobehavioral disturbances afford powerful tools to test etiological hypotheses and explore pathophysiological mechanisms. Prenatal or neonatal inoculations of neurotropic agents (such as herpes-, influenza-, and retroviruses) in rodents result in a broad spectrum of long-term alterations reminiscent of psychiatric abnormalities. Nevertheless, the complexity of these ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3571336 Tue, 18 May 2010 13:28:10 +0100 3571336 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3352030&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F254159.html Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) are quite heterogeneous category of an emerging enteric pathogen associated with cases of acute or persistent diarrhea worldwide in children and adults, and over the past decade has received increasing attention as a cause of watery diarrhea, which is often persistent. EAEC infection is an important cause of diarrhea in outbreak and non-outbreak settings in developing and developed countries. Recently, EAEC has been implicated in the development of irritable bowel syndrome, but this remains to be confirmed. EAEC is defined as a diarrheal pathogen based on its characteristic aggregative adherence (AA) to HEp-2 cells in culture and its biofilm formation on the intestinal mucosa with a “stacked-brick” adherence phenotype, which is related ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3352030 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:45:00 +0100 3352030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3315581&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F632513.html Listeriosis is an emerging zoonotic infection of humans and ruminants worldwide caused by Listeria monocytogenes (LM). In both host species, CNS disease accounts for the high mortality associated with listeriosis and includes rhombencephalitis, whose neuropathology is strikingly similar in humans and ruminants. This review discusses the current knowledge about listeric encephalitis, and involved host and bacterial factors. There is an urgent need to study the molecular mechanisms of neuropathogenesis, which are poorly understood. Such studies will provide a basis for the development of new therapeutic strategies that aim to prevent LM from invading the brain and spread within the CNS. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3315581 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 14:26:57 +0100 3315581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3299828&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F709791.html Borna disease (BD), caused by the neurotropic RNA virus, Borna Disease virus, is an affliction ranging from asymptomatic to fatal meningoencephalitis across naturally and experimentally infected warmblooded (mammalian and bird) species. More than 100 years after the first clinical descriptions of Borna disease in horses and studies beginning in the 1980's linking Borna disease virus to human neuropsychiatric diseases, experimentally infected rodents have been used as models for examining behavioral, neuropharmacological, and neurochemical responses to viral challenge at different stages of life. These studies have contributed to understanding ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3299828 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:48:39 +0100 3299828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291620&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F273573.html Chlamydophila pneumoniae is an intracellular pathogen responsible for a number of different acute and chronic infections. The recent deepening of knowledge on the biology and the use of increasingly more sensitive and specific molecular techniques has allowed demonstration of C. pneumoniae in a large number of persons suffering from different diseases including cardiovascular (atherosclerosis and stroke) and central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Despite this, many important issues remain unanswered with regard to the role that C. pneumoniae may play in initiating atheroma or in the progression of the disease. A growing body of evidence concerns the involvement of this pathogen in chronic neurological disorders and particularly in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291620 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 14:26:13 +0100 3291620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3274051&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F372691.html Bhanja virus (BHAV) is pathogenic for young domestic ruminants and also for humans, causing fever and affections of the central nervous system. This generally neglected arbovirus of the family Bunyaviridae is transmitted by metastriate ticks of the genera Haemaphysalis, Dermacentor, Hyalomma, Rhipicephalus, Boophilus, and Amblyomma. Geographic distribution of BHAV covers southern and Central Asia, Africa, and southern (partially also central) Europe. Comparative biogeographic study of eight known natural foci of BHAV infections in Europe (in Italy, Croatia, Bulgaria, Slovakia) has revealed their common features. (1) submediterranean climatic pattern with dry growing season and wet mild winter (or microlimatically similar conditions, e.g., limestone karst areas in central Europe), (2) xerot... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3274051 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:33:27 +0100 3274051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271909&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F262415.html Infection by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) can cause clinical symptoms in the peripheral and central nervous system. Recurrent ocular shedding can lead to corneal scarring and vision loss making HSV-1 a leading cause of corneal blindness due to an infectious agent. The primary site of HSV-1 latency is sensory neurons within trigeminal ganglia. Periodically, reactivation from latency occurs resulting in virus transmission and recurrent disease. During latency, the latency-associated transcript (LAT) is abundantly expressed. LAT expression is important for the latency-reactivation cycle in animal models, in part, because it inhibits apoptosis, viral gene expression, and productive infection. A novel transcript within LAT coding sequences (AL3) and small nonprotein coding RNAs are also ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271909 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:27:21 +0100 3271909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3256611&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F478461.html Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a replication-competent human retrovirus associated with two distinct types of disease only in a minority of infected individuals: the malignancy known as adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) and a chronic inflammatory central nervous system disease HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). Although the factors that cause these different manifestations of HTLV-1 infection are not fully understood, accumulating evidence suggests that complex virus-host interactions play an important role in determining the risk of HAM/TSP. This review focuses on the role of the immune response in controlling or limiting viral persistence in HAM/TSP patients, and the reason why some HTLV-1-infected people develop HAM/TSP whereas the majority re... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3256611 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:30:16 +0100 3256611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3157095&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F893890.html (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3157095 Sun, 10 Jan 2010 14:21:48 +0100 3157095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3137111&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2010%2F678648.html Catechol-O-methyltransferease (COMT) metabolizes prefrontal cortex dopamine (DA), a neurotransmitter involved in executive behavior; the Val158Met genotype has been linked to executive dysfunction, which might increase sexual risk behaviors favoring HIV transmission. Main and interaction effects of COMT genotype and executive functioning on sexual risk behavior were examined. 192 sexually active nonmonogamous men completed a sexual behavior questionnaire, executive functioning tests, and were genotyped using blood-derived DNA. Main effects for executive dysfunction but not COMT on number of sexual partners were observed. A COMT x executive dysfunction interaction was found for number of sexual partners and insertive anal sex, significant for carriers of the Met/Met and to a lesser extent V... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3137111 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 14:20:13 +0100 3137111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3127691&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F278246.html Methods for the diagnosis of infectious diseases have stagnated in the last 20–30 years. Few major advances in clinical diagnostic testing have been made since the introduction of PCR, although new technologies are being investigated. Many tests that form the backbone of the “modern” microbiology laboratory are based on very old and labour-intensive technologies such as microscopy for malaria. Pressing needs include more rapid tests without sacrificing sensitivity, value-added tests, and point-of-care tests for both high- and low-resource settings. In recent years, research has been focused on alternative methods to improve the diagnosis of parasitic diseases. These include immunoassays, molecular-based approaches, and proteomics using mass spectrometry platforms technolo... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3127691 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 14:22:04 +0100 3127691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3001626&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F137609.html Fever in a returned traveller may be the manifestation of a self-limiting, trivial infection but it can also presage an infection that can be rapidly progressive and lethal. We studied the diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin (PCT) as a biomarker for a bacterial cause of fever in a cohort of 157 consecutive travellers with fever after a stay in the (sub)tropics. Elevated procalcitonin levels were observed not only in about 50% of travellers with proven bacterial infection, but also in a significant proportion of travellers with a likely infection. Using a cutoff point of 0.5 ng/mL, procalcitonin had a sensitivity of 0.52 and a specificity of 0.76 for a bacterial cause of fever on admission. Interestingly, only 1 out of 16 patients with a proven viral infection had a marginally e... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3001626 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:29:31 +0100 3001626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2971543&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F984934.html In vitro synergy testing using levofloxacin (LVX) plus piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP) was performed by Etest and time-kill assay (TKA) for 31 unique fluoroquinolone-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates. The Etest method showed synergy for 9/31 (29%) of isolates, while TKA showed synergy with 14/31 (45%) of isolates. When comparing the Etest method and TKA, concordant results for synergy, antagonism, and indifference were obtained for 24/31 (77%) of the isolates tested. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2971543 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:26:18 +0100 2971543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2947973&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F474368.html Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a widespread chronic endemic helminthic disease caused by infection with metacestodes of the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. CE affects humans and has a worldwide prevalence of approximately six million. In this review, we discuss current findings in diagnosis and clinical management of CE and new concepts relating to E. granulosus molecules that directly modulate the host immune responses favouring a strong anti-inflammatory response and perpetuating parasite survival in the host. New insights into the molecular biology of E. granulosus will improve considerably our knowledge of the disease and will provide new potential therapeutic applications to treat or prevent inflammatory immune-mediated disease. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious D... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2947973 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 14:29:34 +0100 2947973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924254&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F864359.html Periodontal disease is one of the most common infectious diseases of humans. Immune responses to infection trigger loss of alveolar bone from the jaw and eventual tooth loss. We investigated the contribution of B cell IgD to alveolar bone loss by comparing the response of B cell normal BALB/cJ mice and IgD deficient BALB/c-Igh-5−/−J mice to oral infection with Porphyromonas gingivalis, a gram-negative periodontopathic bacterium from humans. P. gingivalis-infected normal mice lost bone. Specific antibody to P. gingivalis was lower and oral colonization was higher in IgD deficient mice; yet bone loss was completely absent. Infection increased the proportion of CD69+ activated B cells and CD4+ T cells in immune normal mice compared to IgD deficient mice. These data suggest tha... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924254 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:23:44 +0100 2924254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780170&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F476150.html This study aimed at detecting the presence of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negatives in samples of meals delivered at the University General Hospital of Palermo, Italy. Antibiotic resistant Gram negatives were isolated in July—September 2007 ffrom cold dishes and food contact surfaces and utensils. Bacterial strains were submitted to susceptibility test and subtyped by random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Forty-six of 55 (83.6%) food samples and 14 of 17 (82.3%) environmental swabs were culture positive for Gram negative bacilli resistant to at least one group of antibacterial drugs. A total of 134 antibiotic resistant strains, 51 fermenters and 83 non-fermenters, were recovered. Fermenters and non-fermenters showed frequencies as high as 97.8% of resistance to ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780170 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:39:33 +0100 2780170 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2735871&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F984568.html Human babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne infectious disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoan species of the genus Babesia with many clinical features similar to those of malaria. Over the last 50 years, the epidemiology of human babesiosis has changed from a few isolated cases to the establishment of endemic areas in the northeastern and midwestern United States. Episodic cases are reported in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. The severity of infection ranges from asymptomatic infection to fulminant disease resulting in death, although the majority of healthy adults experience a mild-to-moderate illness. People over the age of 50 years and immunocompromised individuals are at the highest risk of severe disease, including those with malignancy, HIV, lacking a spleen, or receiv... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2735871 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:13:54 +0100 2735871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2735870&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F180742.html This article reviews the current literature on neurocysticercosis, including newer diagnostics and treatment developments. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2735870 Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:13:54 +0100 2735870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2717852&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F195040.html This article presents an update of classic chemotherapeutic agents, in use for >50 years and the recent development of promising non-toxic combination chemotherapy suitable for use in rural clinics. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2717852 Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:31:18 +0100 2717852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2684654&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F617954.html HIV and malaria have similar global distributions. Annually, 500 million are infected and 1 million die because of malaria. 33 million have HIV and 2 million die from it each year. Minor effects of one infection on the disease course or outcome for the other would significantly impact public health because of the sheer number of people at risk for coinfection. While early population-based studies showed no difference in outcomes between HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals with malaria, more recent work suggests that those with HIV have more frequent episodes of symptomatic malaria and that malaria increases HIV plasma viral load and decreases CD4+ T cells. HIV and malaria each interact with the host's immune system, resulting in a complex activation of immune cells, and subsequen... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2684654 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:32:47 +0100 2684654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2672844&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F642502.html Sterols are constituents of the cellular membranes that are essential for their normal structure and function. In mammalian cells, cholesterol is the main sterol found in the various membranes. However, other sterols predominate in eukaryotic microorganisms such as fungi and protozoa. It is now well established that an important metabolic pathway in fungi and in members of the Trypanosomatidae family is one that produces a special class of sterols, including ergosterol, and other 24-methyl sterols, which are required for parasitic growth and viability, but are absent from mammalian host cells. Currently, there are several drugs that interfere with sterol biosynthesis (SB) that are in use to treat diseases such as high cholesterol in humans and fungal infections. In this review, we analyze ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2672844 Thu, 06 Aug 2009 11:09:39 +0100 2672844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2663415&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F926521.html This report reviews the molecular diagnostic tests that have been described for the identification of the microsporidia that infect humans. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2663415 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:08:54 +0100 2663415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2663414&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F251406.html Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba spp., Balamuthia mandrillaris, and Sappinia sp. are pathogenic free-living amoebae. N. fowleri causes Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis, a rapidly fatal disease of the central nervous system, while Acanthamoeba spp. and B. mandrillaris cause chronic granulomatous encephalitis. Acanthamoeba spp. also can cause cutaneous lesions and Amoebic Keratitis, a sight-threatening infection of the cornea that is associated with contact lens use or corneal trauma. Sappinia pedata has been identified as the cause of a nonlethal case of amoebic encephalitis. In view of the potential health consequences due to infection with these amoebae, rapid diagnosis is critical for early treatment. Microscopic examination and culture of biopsy specimens, cerebral spinal fluid (CSF),... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2663414 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:08:54 +0100 2663414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2640833&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F824324.html The contribution of adipose tissue an autocrine and endocrine organ in the pathogenesis of infectious disease and metabolic syndrome is gaining attention. Adipose tissue and adipocytes are one of the major targets of T. cruzi infection. Parasites are detected 300 days postinfection in adipose tissue. Infection of adipose tissue and cultured adipocytes triggered local expression of inflammatory mediators resulting in the upregulation of cytokine and chemokine levels. Adipose tissue obtained from infected mice display an increased infiltration of inflammatory cells. Adiponectin, an adipocyte specific protein, which exerts antiinflammatory effects, is reduced during the acute phase of infection. The antiinflammatory regulator peroxisome proliferator ac... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2640833 Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:04:23 +0100 2640833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2574495&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F415953.abs.html Malaria's global impact is expansive and includes the extremes of the healthcare system ranging from international travelers returning to nonendemic regions with tertiary referral medical care to residents in hyperendemic regions without access to medical care. Implementation of prompt and accurate diagnosis is needed to curb the expanding global impact of malaria associated with ever-increasing antimalarial drug resistance. Traditionally, malaria is diagnosed using clinical criteria and/or light microscopy even though both strategies are clearly inadequate in many healthcare settings. Hand held immunochromatographic rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have been recognized as an ideal alternative method for diagnosing malaria. Numerous malaria RDTs have been developed and are widely availabl... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2574495 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:01:31 +0100 2574495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2574494&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F484358.abs.html Chagas disease which is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi is an important cause of cardiomyopathy in Latin America. In later stages chagasic cardiomyopathy is associated with congestive heart failure which is often refractory to medical therapy. In these individuals heart transplantation has been attempted. However, this procedure is fraught with many problems attributable to the surgery and the postsurgical administration of immunosuppressive drugs. Studies in mice suggest that the transplantation of bone-marrow-derived cells ameliorates the inflammation and fibrosis in the heart associated with this infection. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging reveals that bone marrow transplantation ameliorates the infection induced right ventricular enlargement. On the basis of these animal stu... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2574494 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:01:31 +0100 2574494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2574493&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F513609.abs.html Georgia, a country of 4.5 million people, has a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB) including drug resistant cases. Easy access and inappropriate use of anti-TB drugs are risk factors for further development of multidrug resistant (MDR)-TB. We carried out an investigation to assess the availability of over the counter anti-TB agents in pharmacies in Tbilisi. During February 2006, 15 pharmacies were randomly selected and the pharmacist at each store was interviewed. We found that all anti-TB medications stocked by these pharmacies were available and sold without a prescription. All 15 pharmacies sold isoniazid, rifampicin, and streptomycin; 13 (87%) of 15 pharmacies also sold pyrazinamide, ethambutol. Second line anti-TB drugs such as amikacin and kanamycin (injectable agents) and olde... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2574493 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:01:31 +0100 2574493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2574492&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F190354.abs.html There is growing evidence to suggest that chagasic myocardia are exposed to sustained oxidative stress induced injuries that may contribute to disease progression. Trypanosoma cruzi invasion- and replication-mediated cellular injuries and immune-mediated cytotoxic reactions are the common source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during acute infection. Mitochondria are proposed to be the major source of ROS in chronic chagasic hearts. However, it has not been established yet, whether mitochondrial dysfunction is a causative factor in chagasic cardiomyopathy or a consequence of other pathological events. A better understanding of oxidative stress in relation to cardiac tissue damage would be useful in the evaluation of its true role in the pathogenesis of Chagas disease and other heart disea... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2574492 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:01:31 +0100 2574492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2574491&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F547090.abs.html Entamoeba histolytica is an invasive intestinal pathogenic parasitic protozoan that causes amebiasis. It must be distinguished from Entamoeba dispar and E. moshkovskii, nonpathogenic commensal parasites of the human gut lumen that are morphologically identical to E. histolytica. Detection of specific E. histolytica antigens in stools is a fast, sensitive technique that should be considered as the method of choice. Stool real-time PCR is a highly sensitive and specific technique but its high cost make it unsuitable for use in endemic areas where there are economic constraints. Serology is an important component of the diagnosis of intestinal and especially extraintestinal amebiasis as it is a sensitive test that complements the detection of the parasite antigens or DNA. Circulating Gal/GalN... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2574491 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 11:01:31 +0100 2574491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2479818&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F415953.html Malaria's global impact is expansive and includes the extremes of the healthcare system ranging from international travelers returning to nonendemic regions with tertiary referral medical care to residents in hyperendemic regions without access to medical care. Implementation of prompt and accurate diagnosis is needed to curb the expanding global impact of malaria associated with ever-increasing antimalarial drug resistance. Traditionally, malaria is diagnosed using clinical criteria and/or light microscopy even though both strategies are clearly inadequate in many healthcare settings. Hand held immunochromatographic rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have been recognized as an ideal alternative method for diagnosing malaria. Numerous malaria RDTs have been developed and are widely availabl... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2479818 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:28:00 +0100 2479818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2479817&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F484358.html Chagas disease which is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi is an important cause of cardiomyopathy in Latin America. In later stages chagasic cardiomyopathy is associated with congestive heart failure which is often refractory to medical therapy. In these individuals heart transplantation has been attempted. However, this procedure is fraught with many problems attributable to the surgery and the postsurgical administration of immunosuppressive drugs. Studies in mice suggest that the transplantation of bone-marrow-derived cells ameliorates the inflammation and fibrosis in the heart associated with this infection. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging reveals that bone marrow transplantation ameliorates the infection induced right ventricular enlargement. On the basis of these animal stu... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2479817 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:28:00 +0100 2479817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2479816&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F513609.html Georgia, a country of 4.5 million people, has a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB) including drug resistant cases. Easy access and inappropriate use of anti-TB drugs are risk factors for further development of multidrug resistant (MDR)-TB. We carried out an investigation to assess the availability of over the counter anti-TB agents in pharmacies in Tbilisi. During February 2006, 15 pharmacies were randomly selected and the pharmacist at each store was interviewed. We found that all anti-TB medications stocked by these pharmacies were available and sold without a prescription. All 15 pharmacies sold isoniazid, rifampicin, and streptomycin; 13 (87%) of 15 pharmacies also sold pyrazinamide, ethambutol. Second line anti-TB drugs such as amikacin and kanamycin (injectable agents) and olde... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2479816 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:28:00 +0100 2479816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2479815&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F190354.html There is growing evidence to suggest that chagasic myocardia are exposed to sustained oxidative stress induced injuries that may contribute to disease progression. Trypanosoma cruzi invasion- and replication-mediated cellular injuries and immune-mediated cytotoxic reactions are the common source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during acute infection. Mitochondria are proposed to be the major source of ROS in chronic chagasic hearts. However, it has not been established yet, whether mitochondrial dysfunction is a causative factor in chagasic cardiomyopathy or a consequence of other pathological events. A better understanding of oxidative stress in relation to cardiac tissue damage would be useful in the evaluation of its true role in the pathogenesis of Chagas disease and other heart disea... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2479815 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 02:28:00 +0100 2479815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465624&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F314762.html Many bacterial species function as both commensals and pathogens; we used this dual nature to develop a high-throughput molecular epidemiological approach to identifying bacterial virulence genes. We applied our approach to Group B Streptococcus (GBS). Three representative commensal and one invasive GBS isolates were selected as tester strains from a population-based collection. We used microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization to identify open reading frames (ORFs) present in two sequenced invasive strains, but absent or divergent in tester strains. We screened 23 variable ORFs against 949 GBS isolates using a GBS Library on a Slide (LOS) microarray platform. Four ORFs occurred more frequently in invasive than commensal isolates, and one appeared more frequently in commensal isol... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465624 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465623&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F626827.html The mucosal surfaces of the gastrointestinal tract harbor a vast number of commensal microbiota that have coevolved with the host, and in addition display one of the most complex relationships with the host. This relationship affects several important aspects of the biology of the host including the synthesis of nutrients, protection against infection, and the development of the immune system. On the other hand, despite the existence of several lines of mucosal defense mechanisms, pathogenic organisms such as Shigella and Salmonella have evolved sophisticated virulence strategies for breaching these barriers. The constant challenge from these pathogens and the attempts by the host to counter them set up a dynamic equilibrium of cellular and molecular crosstalk. Even slight perturbations in... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465623 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465622&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F613979.html The microbiota of a typical, healthy human contains 10 times as many cells as the human body and incorporates bacteria, viruses, archea, protozoans, and fungi. This diverse microbiome (the collective genomes of the microbial symbionts that inhabit a human host) is essential for human functioning. We discuss the unstated assumptions and implications of current conceptualizations of human microbiota: (1) a single unit that interacts with the host and the external environment; a multicelled organ; (2) an assemblage of multiple taxa, but considered as a single unit in its interactions with the host; (3) an assemblage of multiple taxa, which each interacts with the host and the environment independently; and (4) a dynamic ecological community consisting of multiple taxa each potentially interac... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465622 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465621&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F839501.html In healthy humans, many microbial consortia constitute rich ecosystems with dozens to hundreds of species, finely tuned to functions relevant to human health. Medical interventions, lifestyle changes, and the normal rhythms of life sometimes upset the balance in microbial ecosystems, facilitating pathogen invasions or causing other clinically relevant problems. Some diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis, have exactly this sort of community etiology. Mathematical network theory is ideal for studying the ecological networks of interacting species that comprise the human microbiome. Theoretical networks require little consortia specific data to provide insight into both normal and disturbed microbial community functions, but it is easy to incorporate additional empirical data as it becomes av... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465621 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465620&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F175285.html Probiotics have a range of proposed health benefits for the consumer, which may include modulating the levels of beneficial elements in the microbiota. Recent investigations using molecular approaches have revealed a human intestinal microbiota comprising over 1000 phylotypes. Mechanisms whereby probiotics impact on the intestinal microbiota include competition for substrates, direct antagonism by inhibitory substances, competitive exclusion, and potentially host-mediated effects such as improved barrier function and altered immune response. We now have the microbial inventories and genetic blueprints to begin tackling intestinal microbial ecology at an unprecedented level of detail, aided by the understanding that dietary components may be utilized differentially by individual phylotypes.... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465620 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465619&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F829101.html Obesity is a major public health issue as it enhances the risk of suffering several chronic diseases of increasing prevalence. Obesity results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, associated with a chronic low-grade inflammation. Gut microbes are considered to contribute to body weight regulation and related disorders by influencing metabolic and immune host functions. The gut microbiota as a whole improves the host's ability to extract and store energy from the diet leading to body weight gain, while specific commensal microbes seem to exert beneficial effects on bile salt, lipoprotein, and cholesterol metabolism. The gut microbiota and some probiotics also regulate immune functions, protecting the host form infections and chronic inflammation. In contrast, dysbios... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465619 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465618&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F125081.html Antibiotics are the main, and often only, clinical intervention for prophylactic and active treatment of bacterial infections in humans. Perhaps it is not surprising that these drugs also shift the composition of commensal bacteria inside our bodies, especially those within the gut microbial community (microbiota). How these dynamics ultimately affect the function of the gut microbiota, however, is not fully appreciated. Likewise, how antibiotic induced changes facilitate the outgrowth and pathogenicity of certain bacterial strains remains largely enigmatic. Here, we discuss the merits of a microbial ecology approach toward understanding a common side effect of antibiotic use, antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and the opportunistic bacterial infections that sometimes underlie it. As an... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465618 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465617&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F597603.html Sequence-dependent electrophoresis (SDE) fingerprinting techniques such as denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) have become commonplace in the field of molecular microbial ecology. The success of the SDE technology lays in the fact that it allows visualization of the predominant members of complex microbial ecosystems independent of their culturability and without prior knowledge on the complexity and diversity of the ecosystem. Mainly using the prokaryotic 16S rRNA gene as PCR amplification target, SDE-based community fingerprinting turned into one of the leading molecular tools to unravel the diversity and population dynamics of human intestinal microbiota. The first part of this review covers the methodological concept of SDE fingerprinting and the technical hurdles for analyz... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465617 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465616&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F385487.html This article examines the potential for changes in imported and autochthonous malaria incidence in Canada as a consequence of climate change. Drawing on a systems framework, we qualitatively characterize and assess the potential direct and indirect impact of climate change on malaria in Canada within the context of other concurrent ecological and social trends. Competent malaria vectors currently exist in southern Canada, including within this range several major urban centres, and conditions here have historically supported endemic malaria transmission. Climate change will increase the occurrence of temperature conditions suitable for malaria transmission in Canada, which, combined with trends in international travel, immigration, drug resistance, and inexperience in both clinical and lab... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465616 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465615&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F591935.html Seasonal variation in smallpox transmission is one of the most pressing ecological questions and is relevant to bioterrorism preparedness. The present study reanalyzed 7 historical datasets which recorded monthly cases or deaths. In addition to time series analyses of reported data, an estimation and spectral analysis of the effective reproduction number at calendar time t, R(t), were made. Meteorological variables were extracted from a report in India from 1890–1921 and compared with smallpox mortality as well as R(t). Annual cycles of smallpox transmission were clearly shown not only in monthly reports but also in the estimates of R(t). Even short-term epidemic data clearly exhibited an annual peak every January. Both mortality and R(t) revealed significant negative association (P&... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465615 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465614&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F593232.html Zoonotic tick-borne diseases are an increasing health burden in Europe and there is speculation that this is partly due to climate change affecting vector biology and disease transmission. Data on the vector tick Ixodes ricinus suggest that an extension of its northern and altitude range has been accompanied by an increased prevalence of tick-borne encephalitis. Climate change may also be partly responsible for the change in distribution of Dermacentor reticulatus. Increased winter activity of  I. ricinus is probably due to warmer winters and a retrospective study suggests that hotter summers will change the dynamics and pattern of seasonal activity, resulting in the bulk of the tick population becoming active in the latter part of the year. Climate suitability models predict that e... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465614 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465613&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F149694.html We used terminal restriction fragment polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis to assess (1) stability of the fecal microbiota in dogs living in environments characterized by varying degrees of exposure to factors that might alter the microbiota and (2) changes in the microbiota associated with acute episodes of diarrhea. Results showed that the healthy canine GI tract harbors potential enteric pathogens. Dogs living in an environment providing minimal exposure to factors that might alter the microbiota had similar microbiotas; the microbiotas of dogs kept in more variable environments were more variable. Substantial changes in the microbiota occurred during diarrheic episodes, including increased levels of Clostridium perfringens, Enterococcus faecalis, and Enterococcus faecium. When diet and medic... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465613 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465612&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F176532.html The relatively uncommon fungal pathogen Cryptococcus gattii recently emerged as a significant cause of cryptococcal disease in human and animals in the Pacific Northwest of North America. Although genetic studies indicated its possible presence in the Pacific Northwest for more than 30 years, C. gattii as an etiological agent was largely unknown in this region prior to 1999. The recent emergence may have been encouraged by changing conditions of climate or land use and/or host susceptibility, and predictive ecological niche modeling indicates a potentially wider spread. C. gattii can survive wide climatic variations and colonize the environment in tropical, subtropical, temperate, and dry climates. Long-term climate changes, such as the significantly elevated global temperature in the last... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465612 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465611&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F181253.html Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has been described as an increase in the number of anaerobic and facultatively anaerobic bacteria relative to lactobacilli in the vaginal tract. Several undesirable consequences of this community shift can include irritation, white discharge, an elevated pH, and increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections. While the etiology of the condition remains ill defined, BV has been associated with adverse reproductive and pregnancy outcomes. In order to describe the structure of vaginal communities over time we determined the phylogenetic composition of vaginal communities from seven women sampled at multiple points using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that women with no evidence of BV had communities dominated by lactobacilli that appeared stable over ... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465611 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465610&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F290769.html Gastrointestinal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The use of probiotics to prevent and treat a variety of diarrheal diseases has gained favor in recent years. Examples where probiotics have positively impacted gastroenteritis will be highlighted. However, the overall efficacy of these treatments and the mechanisms by which probiotics ameliorate gastrointestinal infections are mostly unknown. We will discuss possible mechanisms by which probiotics could have a beneficial impact by enhancing the prevention or treatment of diarrheal diseases. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465610 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465609&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F750479.html The bacterial biota of the human vagina can have a profound impact on the health of women and their neonates. Changes in the vaginal microbiota have been associated with several adverse health outcomes including premature birth, pelvic inflammatory disease, and acquisition of HIV infection. Cultivation-independent molecular methods have provided new insights regarding bacterial diversity in this important niche, particularly in women with the common condition bacterial vaginosis (BV). PCR methods have shown that women with BV have complex communities of vaginal bacteria that include many fastidious species, particularly from the phyla Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria. Healthy women are mostly colonized with lactobacilli such as Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobaci... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465609 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465608&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F256490.html The human vagina is inhabited by a range of microbes from a pool of over 50 species. Lactobacilli are the most common, particularly in healthy women. The microbiota can change composition rapidly, for reasons that are not fully clear. This can lead to infection or to a state in which organisms with pathogenic potential coexist with other commensals. The most common urogenital infection in premenopausal women is bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition characterized by a depletion of lactobacilli population and the presence of Gram-negative anaerobes, or in some cases Gram-positive cocci, and aerobic pathogens. Treatment of BV traditionally involves the antibiotics metronidazole or clindamycin, however, the recurrence rate remains high, and this treatment is not designed to restore the lactoba... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465608 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465607&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2008%2F296873.html (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases) Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465607 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2465606&cid=s_37030_20_f&fid=37030&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hindawi.com%2Fjournals%2Fipid%2F2009%2F437187.html Both origin and evolution of tuberculosis and its pathogens (Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex) are not fully understood. The paleopathological investigation of human remains offers a unique insight into the molecular evolution and spread including correlative data of the environment. The molecular analysis of material from Egypt (3000–500 BC), Sudan (200–600 AD), Hungary (600–1700 AD), Latvia (1200–1600 AD), and South Germany (1400–1800 AD) urprisingly revealed constantly high frequencies of tuberculosis in all different time periods excluding significant environmental influence on tuberculosis spread. The typing of various mycobacteria strains provides evidence for ancestral M. tuberculosis strains in Pre- to early Egyptian dynastic material (3500–265... Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2465606 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:05:24 +0100 2465606