Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine

337-341

Authors: Suryanarayana Murty Upadhyayula, Srinivasa Rao Mutheneni, Hari Krishna Nayanoori, Arunachalam Natarajan, Prashant Goswami

To assess the virus infection in mosquitoes during different seasons and correlated with various climatic factors. Methods: The field collected vectors were screened for Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus after dessication using ELISA method. Most of the positive pools were recorded from Culex tritaeniorhynchus (Cx. tritaeniorhynchus) and Culex. gelidus (Cx. gelidus) during JE transmission season (winter) and some positive pools were also reported during non JE transmission periods (i.e. summer and rainy seasons). Results: The minimum infection rates (MIR) of 1.75 from Cx. tritaeniorhynchus and 0.17 from Cx. gelidus has been reported in the year 2002 at the beginning of the study and the values were found nil at the end of the study (2006) from the study areas of Kurnool district. Conclusions: From this study it is noted that MIR of Cx. gelidus and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus were modulated by various meteorological parameters. The mosquito vector abundance increases after the monsoon period (winter) and lowest in dry season (summer). Similarly, MIR fluctuated between seasons with higher MIR recorded after monsoon period and lower in the rest of season. Impact of these metrological parameters in JE virus infected mosquitoes is discussed in this paper.

347-351

Authors: Xiao-Qing Guo, Yan-Ming Wei, Bo Yu

To construct a strain of recombinant Mycobacterium smegmatis expressing the heat shock protein 65(Hsp65) and human interleukin 2 (IL-2) fusion protein (rMS-Hsp65/IL-2) and to explore the effect of this construct on lymphocyte function in mice. Methods: The fusion gene encoding Hsp65-hIL-2 was cloned into shuttle vector pSMT3. The recombinant plasmid pSMT3-Hsp65-hIL-2 was transferred to Mycobacterium smegmatis by electroporation. Positive clones were selected by hygromycin and identified by PCR. The expression of fusion protein Hsp65-hIL-2 was verified using indirect immunofluorescence staining. Mice were immunized for two times by subcutaneously injection with 1伊106 CFU rMS-Hsp65/IL-2 at a three-week interval. Two weeks after the second immunization, mice were sacrificed and the serum samples were collected for determination of anti-Hsp65 specific IgG. Splenic lymphocytes were isolated and treated with the rMS-Hsp65/IL-2 to determine lymphocytic proliferation activity by MTT assay. IFN-毭 and IL-2 in the medium of the treated cells were also determined by ELISA. Results: Successful construction of rMS-Hsp65/IL-2 was verified by PCR and immunofluorescence staining. Compared to the splenic lymphocytes isolated from mice immunized with Bacille Calmette-Guerin or mice immunized with Mycobacterium smegmatis alone, the splenic lymphocytes isolated from mice immunized with rMS-Hsp65/IL-2 showed a marked increase in the proliferation of lymphocytes, together with an increased production of important cytokines such as IFN-毭and IL-2. Conclusions: rMS-Hsp65/IL-2 markedly enhances lymphocyte function. Therefore, the fusion protein generated by rMS-Hsp65/IL-2 may be of potential value in generating an effective vaccine against tuberculosis.

355-357

Authors: Jahangir Abdi, Bahram Kazemi, Mohammad Hasan Karimfar, Mohammad Bagher Rokni

To immunize rabbits with 12 and 16 kDa recombinant subunits of antigen B from Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) and measuring polyclonal antibody and humoral immune response using ELISA and gel diffusion. Methods: Two mentioned antigens were cloned and expressed in expression vector and purified by affinity chromatography. Four young rabbits were selected and challenged intradermally with yielded recombinant antigens. Rabbits’ sera were collected post infection and were tested using ELISA and gel diffusion for polyclonal antibody detection 10 days after last injection. Results: The specific antibody against the recombinant peptides was efficiently produced within 4 weeks post infection. Conclusions: Produced recombinants proteins could induce the immune response of the rabbits successfully. This process might improve the clarification of diagnosis and vaccination as regards hydatidosis.

362-366

Authors: D Jaya Kumar, R Jaya Santhi

To evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of hexane extract of Morinda pubescens leaves and to find the primary bioactive compound responsible for antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. Methods: The individual compounds were isolated using column cwharso mevaatlougartaepdh yfo ar nadl l winerdei vcihdauraalc itseorlizaetedd b cyo msppeocutrnodssc obpyi cD tPePcHhn miqeutehso. dT uhsei nagn tLio-xAidscaonrtb aicc tiavciitdy acas ssptaasned taersdt aanndd RcyTt-oPtoCxRic sittuyd wy.a sR aessuseltsss:e dT hfeo ra nthtieo xeixdtaranct ta catnidvi ttyh eo fh tyhoes icsyoalamteinde c bomy pMoTuTn dass saanyd, tshheo wexetdra tcht ein hcirgehas eadn taios xtihdea cnotn accetnitvriattyi.o nT hinec reexatsreadc.t Oanned otfh teh eh yisooslcayteadm cionme pdoousned- dheyopsecnydaemnitnlye Udepc rreeagsuelda tthioen c eolfl pvi5a3b iglietyn ein e HxperpeGs2s icoenll sp.r Hovyiodsecsy acmuien ef oirn daupcoepdt octaiscp aasceti-v3i tmy eodfi ahtyedos acpyoapmtoisnies.. Conclusions: The results indicate that hexane extract possessed potent antioxidant and cytotoxic activity and hyoscyamine is the principal bioactive compound in hexane extract.

374-379

Authors: Mi-Ja Kim, Hye Kyung Kim

To explore the anti-diabetic activity of Ecklonia cava (EC) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. Methods: Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (90 mg/kg). Normal and diabetic mice were treated with 0%, 3%, and 5% EC diet for 4 weeks. Serum glucose and insulin concentrations, serum lipid profile, oral glucose tolerance test, and liver and pancreatic 毬-cell histopathological observations were performed. In addition, in vitro glucose-induced insulin secretion was determined using pancreatic 毬-islet cells. Results: EC supplementation significantly and dose-dependently decreased serum glucose concentration, and improved glucose homeostasis in diabetic mice by preventing loss of -cell mass resulting in increase of insulin secretion. The triglyceride and total cholesterol concentrations in the serum and liver were markedly reduced by EC treatment in STZ-diabetic mice. Moreover, LDL-, and HDL-cholesterol levels were ameliorated in EC supplemented diabetic mice. Liver steatosis induced by STZ was ameliorated by EC supplementation. Furthermore, in vitro insulinotrophic effect of EC extract was observed in pancreatic 毬-islets. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that EC is a potent and efficacious hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic agent, and prevents the loss of 毬-cell mass resulting in increase of insulin secretary capacity.

385-390

Authors: Aashish S Morani, Subhash L Bodhankar, V Mohan, Prasad A Thakurdesai

To evaluate the effects of the standardized extract of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L. Family: Leguminasae) seed (IND01) in animal models of peripheral neuropathy. Methods: IND01 was prepared from fenugreek seeds and standardized by high performance liquid chromatography to a marker compound, trigonelline. The effects of daily oral administration of IND01 (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were studied in rats after partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL) and sciatic nerve crush injury (SNCI) during 30-days period. The measurements on thermal hyperalgesia (TH), motor function test (MFT) score and motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) were recorded. Results: IND01 offered sustained protection against TH and deranged MFT scores in both models from 7-day onwards. Fifteen days of daily oral administration of IND01 restored MNCV reduction in rats with SNCI but not with PSNL. Conclusions: IND01 was found to be effective in rat models of painful peripheral neuropathy.

396-401

Authors: Zeng-Tao Hao, Yu-Xia Ma, Ting Hao, Wei Feng, Ji-Hong Wang, Dong-Sheng Fan, Shu-Zheng Wen

To compare the effect of surgical intervention on functional treatment. Methods: By searching the MEDLINE (1966 to October 2011), EMBASE (1980 to October 2011), the Chinese Biomedical Database Databases (1980 to October 2011), a total of 9 related RCT studies comparing surgical intervention with functional treatment were included in our study. RevMan software was taken to analyze the data. Results: These 9 studies involved a total of 1 268 mostly young adults, including 580 patients with surgical treatment and 688 patients with functional treatment. The results showed the stability of ankle activity in surgical treatment group was better than that in functional treatment group, with the OR and 95% CI of 0.72 (0.52-0.99). No significant difference was found in the recurrence of the surgical and functional group. However, the movement disorder in the surgical treatment suggested increased risk than that in functional group, with the OR and 95% CI of 2.39 (0.98-5.85). Surgical group found more complication than the function group, such as deep vein thrombosis,deep venous thrombosis, tenderness of scar and sensory loss. Conclusions: In conclusion, our finding showed that surgical treatment could gain better efficacy than functional treatment, but may bring more complication. Therefore, further large sample size RCT is warranted.

406-409

Authors: Tie Chen, Ren-Fa Lai, Zhi-Ying Zhou, Qing-Tong Zhao, Zhong-Da Yin

To investigate the feasibility of ultrasonic diagnosis for monitoring fracture healing. Methods: Thirty rabbit models with fraction of mandible body were established by surgically removing partial lower jawbone. At the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th and 12th week after the operation, they were examined by X-ray and ultrasound, respectively. All detection results were scored according to a generally accepted standard. Spearman rank correlation analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between the results of the two inspection methods. Results: In each healing stage, the results of the ultrasonic inspection were basically consistent with those of the X-ray examination, as supported by a Spearman rank correlation coefficient of 0.892 (P<0.001). Conclusions: Non-invasive ultrasonic inspection can be used instead of X-ray examination to monitor and diagnose fracture healing.

413-415

Authors: Rikki Singal, Sunita Gupta, Samita Gupta

Abdominal tuberculosis (TB) is the sixth commonest extra-pulmonary TB form after lymphatic, genitourinary, bone and joint, miliary and meningeal tuberculosis. We are presenting a rare case in a young female of age 7 year diagnosed as peritonitis and intestinal obstruction. Operative findings revealed dense fibrosis in interloops and perforation of the small bowel. She was put on antitubercular treatment for one year. Patient was discharged in satisfactory condition and is in follow up for 2 months.

925-930

Authors: Ya-Fei Zhu, Lin-Sheng He, Zhen-Dong Zhang, Qing-Shui Huang

Objective To investigate the value of serum human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) in differential diagnosis of patients with low-grade serous (LGSC) and high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) serous ovarian cancer. Methods LGSC and HGSC serous ovarian cancer were diagnosed by the two-tier grade system, serum levels of HE4 and carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125) were measured by ELISA and radioisotope method, respectively in 60 serous ovarian cancer patients. HE4 and TP53 protein in cancer tissue were measured by immunohistochemical method. Results The difference in density of HE4 and TP53 protein was significant between LGSC and HGSC tissue, while serum CA125 did not show significant difference between different serum samples. There was significant difference in serum HE4 levels between LGSC and HGSC, and the result was different within FIGO (I+II) stage, suggesting HE4 was not a reliable biomarker for the discrimination between LGSC and HGSC. HE4 had potential as a biomarker for the discrimination between LGSC and HGSC but the role in early diagnosis was limited. Conclusions HE4 may be a reliable marker for differential diagnosis of LGSC and HGSC. But its role in early diagnosis of LGSC and HGSC need to be confirmed from the perspective of two-tier grade system.

935-938

Authors: Song-Yi Ning, Biao-Ping Jiang, Li Xu, Tai-Hui Fang, Mian-Hua Wu

Objective To investigate the effects of Liangxuehuayu Recipe on hemorheology in rats with blood stasis syndrome induced by mutifactor stimuli. Methods SD rats were divided into control, model, Liangxuehuayu Recipe (high, middle and low dose, 18, 9, 4.5 g/kg accordingly). Except the control group, blood stasis model was established in the rest groups. The hemorheological parameters were measured and compared. Results Blood viscosity at high, moderate and low level in rats with blood stasis significantly increased (P<0.05), but blood viscosity at high level and plasma viscosity was significantly decreased in rats induced by some stimuli after Liangxuehuayu Recipe were intra-gastrically administered for 1 weeks (P<0.01, P<0.05). Conclusions Liangxuehuayu Recipe is effective in improving hemorheology, and has important application value in the prevention of occurrence and development of ischemic stroke.

945-948

Authors: NK Saini, M Singhal

Objective To evaluate the antihyperglycemic activity of Tecomaria capensis (T. capensis) Thunb. (Bignoniaceae) methanolic leaves extract (TCLE) using blood glucose level in normal fasted rats, glucose tolerance test and alloxan induced hyperglycemia models. Methods TCLE (100, 300, 1 000 and 2 000 mg/kg body wt.) was given to rats orally to observe acute toxicity, and observed for 14 d. TCLE 200 and 400 mg/kg, and glibenclamide 0.6 mg/kg were given orally in all models. Results Results demonstrated that the no mortality was reported even after 14 d. This indicates that the methanol extract is safe up to a single dose of 2 000 mg/kg body weight. TCLE (200 and 400 mg/kg p.o.) exhibited remarkable blood glucose lowering effect in blood glucose level in normal fasted rats, glucose tolerance and alloxan induced hyperglycemia model. Cholesterol and triglyceride also decreased in alloxan induced hyperglycemia model. Conclusions The results of this study exhibites that methanol extract of T. capensis possesses antihypergycemic activity and it may prove to be effective for the treatment of hyperglycemia.

956-961

Authors: Haseena Banu Hedayathullah Khan, Kaladevi Siddhi Vinayagam, Shanthi Palanivelu, Sachdanandam Panchanadham

Objective To explore the protective effect of the drug Semecarpus anacardium (S. anacardium)on altered glucose metabolism in diabetic rats. Methods Type 2 diabetes mellitus was induced by feeding rats with high fat diet followed by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) (35 mg/kg b.w.). Seven days after STZ induction, diabetic rats received nut milk extract of S. anacardium Linn. nut milk extract orally at a dosage of 200 mg/kg daily for 4 weeks. The effect of nut milk extract of S. anacardium on blood glucose, plasma insulin, glucose metabolising enzymes and GSK were studied. Results Treatment with SA extract showed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels and increase in plasma insulin levels and also increase in HOMA – β and decrease in HOMA -IR. The drug significantly increased the activity of glycolytic enzymes and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and increased the glycogen content in liver of diabetic rats while reducing the activities of gluconeogenic enzymes. The drug also effectively ameliorated the alterations in GSK-3 mRNA expression. Conclusions Overall, the present study demonstrates the possible mechanism of glucose regulation of S. anacardium suggestive of its therapeutic potential for the management of diabetes mellitus.

966-969

Authors: Bang-Xing Han, Dan-Zhao Guo, Jun Chen, Jian Mao

Objective To explore the effect of AIBL on Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate snail host of Schistosoma japonicum. Methods The enzyme histochemical profiles of cholinesterase, cytochrome oxidase, lactate dehydrogenase, nitric oxide synthase, and succinate dehydrogenase in the soft tissues of Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate host snail of Schistosoma japonicum, were analyzed before and after treatment with the active ingredient of Buddleia lindleyana (AIBL), a potent and safe plant molluscicide. Results Treatment with AIBL induced a notable decrease in the activities of the five enzymes (P<0.01). Conclusions The results indicate that AIBL impairs the activities of the enzymes, thereby influencing the transfer of neurotransmitter and energy supply in Oncomelania hupensis and ultimately harming their various physiological functions, which are considered to cause death of the species.

973-976

Authors: Jun Wang, Yuan Li, Xiong-Bing Zu, Min-Feng Chen, Lin Qi

Objective To explore the anti-tumor effects of asiatic moonseed rhizome extraction-dauricine on bladder cancer EJ cell strain, prostate cancer PC-3Mcell strain and primary cell culture system. Methods The main effective component-phenolic alkaloids ofMenispermum dauricum was extracted and separated from asiatic moonseed rhizome by chemical method. MTT method was used to detect dauricine anti-tumor effect. Results Dauricine had an obvious proliferation inhibition effect on the main tumor cells in urinary system. The minimum drug sensitivity concentration was between 3.81-5.15 μg/mL, and the inhibition ratio increased with the increase of concentration. Conclusions Dauricine, the main effective component extracted from asiatic moonseed rhizome, had a good inhibition effect on tumor cells in urinary system. At the same time, Dauricine has certain inhibition effects on the primary cultured tumor cell.

986-990

Authors: Ananya Bhowmik, Subhasis Bhandari, Rajyasree De, Subhasish Kamal Guha

Objective To assess early mortality and identify its predictors among the ART naive HIV–infected patients initiating anti retroviral therapy (ART) available free of cost at the ART Centres. Methods A retrospective cohort analysis of routinely collected programme data was done for assessing mortality of all ART naive adult patients who received first-line ART at a government tertiary care hospital in eastern India during 1st March 2009 and 28th February 2010. Bivariate and multiple regression analyses of the baseline demographic, clinical and laboratory records using SPSS 15.0 were done to identify independent predictors of mortality. Results The mortality rate at one year was estimated to be 7.66 (95% CI 5.84-9.83) deaths/100 patient-years and more than 50% of the deaths occurred during first three months of ART initiation with a median time interval of 73 days. Tuberculosis was the major cause of death. ART naive patients with baseline serum albumin <3.5 mg/dL were eight (OR 7.9; 95% CI: 3.8-16.5) at risk of death than those with higher serum albumin levels and patients with CD4 count <100 cells/μ L were two times (OR 2.2; 95% CI1.1–4.4) at risk of death compared to higher CD4 counts. Conclusions Risk of mortality is increased when ART is initiated at advanced stages of immunosuppression denoted by low serum albumin levels and CD4 cell counts. This highlights the importance of early detection of HIV infection, early management of opportunistic infections including tuberculosis and timely initiation of the antiretroviral drugs in the resource-limited countries, now available free in the Indian national ART programme.

995-999

Authors: Wei Yang, Xiao Dong, Bin Li, Xiao-Qiang Zhang, Yuan Zeng, Yi-Ping Wei, Jian-Liang Zhou, Yan-Hua Tang, Jian-Jun Xu

Objective To observe the expression of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II (Ang II), cardiac troponin (cTn I), creatine kinase isozymes (CK-MB) and muscle red protein(Myo) after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and to investigate the association of polymorphisms in angiotensin converting enzyme genes and myocardial injury. Methods Sixty-three patients suffered from rheumatic mitral stenosis and scheduled for mitral valve replacement with CPB, were randomly divided into three groups according polymorphisms in angiotensin converting enzyme genes: type II, type ID, type DD (each=21). Blood samples were withdrawn from artery before operation (T1), at the beginning of CPB (T2), 30 min after CPB (T3), (T4) at the end of CPB (T5), 2 h after CPB (T6), 6 h after CPB (T7) to measure the expression of ACE, Ang II, cTn I, CK-MB, Myo. Results The level of ACE during and after CPB were significantly higher than those before CPB (P<0.05). As extension of CPB time, the expression of ACE was increased. The level of cTn I, CK-MB, Myo after CPB were significantly higher than those before CPB(P<0.05). The level of cTn I, CK-MB and Myo were highest at T7, T6 and T5 and T7, respectively. The level of ACE, Ang II cTn I in patients with DD genotype was significantly higher than the ID and II genotype (P< 0.05). Besides, the level of ACE, Ang II in patients with ID genotype was significantly higher than the II (P< 0.05). Conclusions There is certain correlation between CPB perioperative midterm ACE and cTn I, Myo, CK-MB. ACE DD genotype is a susceptibility gene of the CPB perioperative myocardial injury.

1007-1008

Authors: Sunil Kumar, Shraddha Jain, Shivali Kashikar

Cysticercosis is a common tropical disease. Disseminated form is one of the uncommon manifestations and a rare complication of this disease. We report an immunocompetent patient with disseminated cysticercosis who had involvement of the brain and skeletal muscles giving rise to Herculean appearance.

841-847

Authors: Faustina Nkechi Osuji, Charles Chinedum Onyenekwe, Martins Ifeanyichukwu, Joseph Ebere Ahaneku, Micheal Ezeani, Ifeoma Pricilla Ezeugwunne

Objective To determine the antioxidant status of HIV and malaria co-infected participants. Methods Blood samples collected from the 193 randomly recruited participants were used for HIV screening, Plasmodium falciparum antigen screening, malaria parasite density count, CD4+ T cell count, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant status measurement. Standard laboratory methods were used for the analysis. Results The results showed that glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant status and CD4+ T cell count were significantly lowered in symptomatic HIV participants with and without malaria co-infection (P<0.01) in each case compared with control participants. Also, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidise, total antioxidant status and CD4+ T cell count were significantly lowered in asymptomatic HIV participants with and without malaria co-infection (P<0.05) in each case, compared with control participants without malaria. Similarly, these antioxidants were significantly lowered in control participants with malaria infection (P<0.05) compared with control participants without malaria. The malaria parasite density in symptomatic HIV infected participants was negatively associated with glutathione reductase (r = −0.906, P<0.01), glutathione peroxidase (r = −0.719, P<0.01) and total antioxidant status (r = −0.824, P<0.01). Conclusions The antioxidant activity was affected in HIV infected participants with malaria co-infection. Malaria co-infection in HIV seems to exert additional burden on antioxidants. This calls for concern in malaria endemic areas with increasing prevalence of HIV infection.

853-856

Authors: Hassan Borji, Mohammad Azizzadeh, Mansour Ebrahimi, Mohammad Asadpour

Objective To determine the prevalence, identify the species involved and assess possible risk factors of lungworm infection in small ruminant slaughtered in abattoir of Mashhad in the northeast of Iran from October 2010–August 2011. Methods Faecal and post mortem examination were conducted on 350 and 2 500 animals, respectively. Results The overall prevalence of lungworm infection was 10.85% and 3.80% in coproscopic and post mortem examination respectively, and this difference was found to be significant. Higher prevalence of lungworm infection was recorded in post mortem examination in sheep (4.1%) than in goats (0.5%) (P< 0.05). The proportion of infection with Dictyocaulus filaria, Protostrongylus rufescens and mixed infection were 3.7%, 0.1% and 0.2% in sheep while in goats, the infection was reported with Dictyocaulus filaria (0.5%) only. The seasonal dynamics of lungworm infection showed that prevalence was highest in winter (7.8%) with a remarkable decline during the dry time (summer) (0.8%) which the difference was significant (P<0.001). The animals of less than one year old showed greater infection in post mortem examination than older animals significantly (P<0.001). Also, the infection rate between male and female animals showed significant difference (P<0.05) with prevalence rate of 4.6% and 2.0%, respectively. Conclusions Due to its impact on production, emphasis should be given for the control and prevention of lungworm infection in this area.

862-867

Authors: Sundaraj Rajamanikandan, Thangaraj Sindhu, Dhanapal Durgapriya, Dominic Sophia, Paramasivam Ragavendran, Velliyur Kanniappan Gopalakrishnan

Objective To evaluate the protective effect of ethanol extract of Mollugo nudicaulis (M. nudicaulis) against perchloroethylene-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods The hepatoprotective activity of the ethanol extract of M. nudicaulis (200 mg/kg body wt) was studied in percholoroethylene (1 000 mg/kg body wt) induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar albino rats. The serum levels of AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin and the liver content of SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GSH, vitamin C were assessed to evaluate the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the extract. The activity of the extract was compared with silymarin, a standard reference drug. In addition, serum urea, uric acid and creatinine levels were measured to evaluate the kidney function. The histopathological examination of the liver tissues was observed to support the biochemical parameters. Results The results revealed that the extract significantly (P<0.05) restored the serum levels of AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin and significantly (P<0.05) increased the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, GSH, vitamin C in perchloroethylene-induced rats to its normalcy. The biochemical observations were supported by the histopathological studies of the liver tissues. Conclusions The results led to the conclusion that M. nudicaulis possess hepatoprotective and antioxidant activites against perchloroethylene-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

875-881

Authors: Mohd Aidil Azahar, Ghanya Al-Naqeb, Mizaton Hasan, Aishah Adam

Objective To investigate the hypoglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of Octomeles sumatrana (O. sumatrana) (OS) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ) and its molecular mechanisms. Methods Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg) in to male Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats were divided into six different groups; normal control rats were not induced with STZ and served as reference, STZ diabetic control rats were given normal saline. Three groups were treated with OS aqueous extract at 0.2, 0.3 and 0.5 g/kg, orally twice daily continuously for 21 d. The fifth group was treated with glibenclamide (6 mg/kg) in aqueous solution orally continuously for 21 d. After completion of the treatment period, biochemical parameters and expression levels of glucose transporter 2 (Slc2a2), glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK1) were determined in liver by quantitative real time PCR. Results Administration of OS at different doses to STZ induced diabetic rats, resulted in significant decrease (P<0.05) in blood glucose level in a dose dependent manner by 36%, 48%, and 64% at doses of 0.2, 0.3 and 0.5 g/kg, respectively, in comparison to the STZ control values. Treatment with OS elicited an increase in the expression level of Slc2a2 gene but reduced the expression of G6Pase and PCK1 genes. Morefore, OS treated rats, showed significantly lower levels of serum alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea levels compared to STZ untreated rats. The extract at different doses elicited signs of recovery in body weight gain when compared to STZ diabetic controls although food and water consumption were significantly lower in treated groups compared to STZ diabetic control group. Conclusions O. sumatrana aqueous extract is beneficial for improvement of hyperglycemia by increasing gene expression of liver Slc2a2 and reducing expression of G6Pase and PCK1 genes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

887-890

Authors: S. Ravikumar, M. Gnanadesigan, A. Saravanan, N. Monisha, V. Brindha, S. Muthumari

Objective To identify the antibacterial potential of seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium) associate microbes against bacterial pathogens. Methods Eumeration of microbial associates were analyzed with leaf and root samples of Syringodium isoetifolium. MIC and MBC were calculated for bacterial pathogens with microbial associates. Phylogenetic and GC-MS analysis were calculated for Actinomycetes sp. (Act01) which was the most potent. Results Of the isolated microbial associates phosphatase producing bacterial isolates were identified as maximum [(261.78±35.09) CFU×104/g] counts in root sample. Of the selected microbial isolates Actinomycete sp (Act01) showed broad spectrum of antibacterial activity against antibiotic resistant and fish bacterial pathogens. Phylogenetic analysis of Act01 showed maximum identities (99%) with the Streptomyces sp. (GU5500072). The 16s rDNA secondary structure of Act01 showed the free energy values as −366.3 kkal/mol. The GC-MS analysis Act01 showed maximum retention value with 23.742 RT and the corresponding chemical class was identified as 1, 4-dihydroxy-2-(3-hydroxybutyl)-9, 10-anthraquinone 9, 10-anthrac. Conclusions In conclusion, Streptomyces sp. (GU045544.1) from Syringodium isoetifolium could be used as potential antibacterial agent.

897-900

Authors: Li-Xiao Zhou, Yu Zhu

Objective To explore the influence of extract of Ginkgo biloba (EGB) on the proliferation, apoptosis of ACC-2 cell and Survivin gene expression in adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of lacrimal gland. Methods ACC-2 cell in human with ACC of lacrimal gland was in vitro cultured. MTT method was used for cell proliferation detection. Annexin V/PI double-staining flow cytometer was used to detect cell apoptosis and cell cycle. Survivin gene expression was analyzed by RT-PCR and Western blotting. Results EGB had inhibitory effect on the proliferation of ACC-2 cell with significant dose-effect relationship, and there was statistical difference when compared with the control group (P<0.01). The inhibitory concentration 50 % (IC50) is 88 mg/L. The flow cytometer test indicated that EGB can gradually increase ACC-2 cell in G0-G1 stage and decrease it in G2-M and S stage. With the increase of dose, the apoptosis rate of ACC-2 cell was obviously increased (P<0.05 or P<0.01). EGB had certain inhibitory effect on Survivin gene expression of ACC-2 cell, and Survivin gene expression was decreased with the increasing of the EGB concentration (P<0.01). Conclusions EGB can effectively inhibit Survivin gene expression of ACC-2 cell in human with ACC of lacrimal gland, induce the apoptosis of ACC-2 cell and inhibit tumor cell proliferation.

906-910

Authors: Wei-Hong Wang, Guo-Ping He, Xu-Ping Xiao, Can Gu, Hua-Ying Chen

Objective To determine the relationship between the blood serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level and cognitive function deterioration in patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), and to explore the possible mechanism of cognitive impairment. Methods Twenty-eight male OSAHS patients and 14 normal males (as controls) were enrolled in the study. Polysomnography and the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) were conducted. The blood serum BDNF levels were measured using ELISA. Results The OSAHS group had significantly decreased blood serum BDNF levels compared with the control group (t = −10.912, P = 0.000). The blood serum BDNF level of the subjects was significantly positively associated with the MoCA score (r = 0.544, P = 0.000), significantly negatively associated with the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and shallow sleep (S1+S2) (AHI: r = −0.607, P = 0.000; S1+S2: r = −0.768, P = 0.000), and significantly positively associated with the lowest SaO2 (LSO), slow wave sleep (S3+S4), and rapid eye movement sleep (REM) (LSO: r = 0.566, P = 0.000; S3+S4: r = 0.778, P = 0.000; REM: r = 0.575, P = 0.000). Conclusions OSAHS patients have significantly decreased blood serum BDNF levels compared with the control. Nocturnal hypoxia as well as the deprivation of slow wave sleep and REM may lead to the decreased serum BDNF level of OSAHS patients. This decreased blood serum BDNF level may contribute to the cognitive impairment in OSAHS.

917-919

Authors: Won-Jung Koh, Goohyeon Hong, Kwhanmien Kim, Soomin Ahn, Joungho Han

We report two cases of pulmonary sequestration infected with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM): Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus. Chest computed tomography showed pneumonic consolidation in the right lower lobe, which received a systemic blood supply from the descending aorta in both patients. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgeries were successfully performed and pathological examinations revealed multiple caseating granulomas. A review of the literature revealed only seven previous case reports of pulmonary sequestration infected with NTM, and no case with Mycobacterium abscessus has been reported.

923-924

Authors: Xiao-Yong Gong, Wei Zheng, Hong Du, Yi Lei, Ya-Hui Xue, Chao-Hui Xue, Xian-Chao An, Gang Zheng

Three patients with nutcracker syndrome (NCS) were enrolled in the study. Their clinical symptoms mainly included proteinuria and serious varicocele. Color Doppler ultrasound and computed tomography showed that the patients had constricted abdominal aortas, reduced superior mesenteric artery angles, and thinned left renal veins. Patients then underwent left spermatic vein ligation and iliac vein anastomosis. They were checked three months after their operation, and results showed that their sperms were improved and their proteinuria disappeared. The color Doppler ultrasound showed new cycle pathways. NCS clinical manifestations are complicated, and need combination diagnosis of symptoms and auxiliary examination to determine surgical indications. Ligation of spermatic vein and vein anastomosis can be used to treat NCS.

757-765

Authors: Arumugam Sathya, Perumal Siddhuraju

Objective To search for an efficient and inexpensive source of phytoconstituents with antioxidant potential and health promoting traits from bark and empty pods of Acacia auriculiformis (A. auriculiformis). Methods Samples of bark and empty pod extracts were analyzed for bioactives (phenolics, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins) and subjected to free radical scavenging activity on DPPH˙, ABTS˙+, OH˙, O2•− and NO along with the determination of reducing power, iron chelating activity and peroxidation inhibition. Defensive action of extracts on biomolecules and cell membranes were evaluated by DNA nicking assay and haemolysis inhibition assay respectively. α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory potentials were also determined. Results All the bioactives analyzed were higher in bark (B) than empty pods (EP) [TPC: B (574.51±16.11); EP (96.80±3.45) mg GAE/g. TFC: B (94.71±7.65); EP (247.87±20.45) mg RE/g. Proanthocyanidins: B (2.81±0.31); EP (1.25±0.01) mg LE/100 g DM] except flavonoids. Both the extracts showed higher quenching capacity on DPPH and ABTS (DPPH: B (0.21±0.01); EP (1.51±0.17) g extract/g DPPH. ABTS: B (111 519.14±79 340.91); EP (80 232.55±32 894.12) mmol TE/g) with the FRAP of B (84 515.63±3 350.69) and EP (47 940.79±1 257.60) mmol Fe (II)/g. Iron chelation was not observed. In addition, they showed lower quenching activity on OH˙ (B (48.95±1.72); EP (34.94±1.62)%) and equivalent quenching on O2•− (B (53.47±3.92); EP (24.41±2.61)%), NO (B (49.04±5.04); EP (51.00±5.13)%), peroxidation inhibition (B (67.50±5.50); EP (55.1±2.3)%) and antihaemolytic potential (B (87.60±6.84)%) towards authentic antioxidant standards. Interestingly, Empty pod extracts are devoid of antihaemolytic activity. Both the extracts showed dose dependent DNA protection. Besides this, bark and empty pod extracts exhibited dual inhibiting potential against α -amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. Conclusions On summarization, it insinuated that both bark and empty pods can be used for the preparation of antioxidant/nutraceutical supplements and in anti–diabetic formulations.

773-776

Authors: Ahmed Moussa, Djebli Noureddine, Hammoudi Si Mohamed, Meslem Abdelmelek, Aissat Saad

Objective To assess the in vitro antibacterial activity of honey from different geographical location on Gram negative organismes. Methods Different concentrations (Undiluted honey, 10 %, 30%, 50% and 70% wt/vol) of honey were studied in vitro using Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes), briefly, two-fold dilutions of honey solutions were tested to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against each type of microorganism, followed by more assays within a narrower dilution range to obtain more precise MIC values. MICs were determined by both visual inspection and spectrophotometric assay at 620 nm. These honey samples were compared with standard antibiotics like ampicillin, penicillin G, amoxicillin, gentamycin, tobramycin, erythromycin and chloramphenicol was determined by the disc diffusion method. Results The diameter of zone of the inhibition (ZDI) of honey has various concentrations tested for the isolates ranged 0–46 mm for S. aureus, 0–44 mm for S. pyogenes. While the MIC (%) ranged 12%-95%, 25%-73% respectively. Conclusions Algeria honey, in-vitro, possess antibacterial activity.

781-784

Authors: NK Saini, M Singhal

Objective To evaluate the anti-nociceptive activity of Tecomaria capensis (T. capensis) leaves extract (TCLE) using different models in rats by acetic acid induced writhing test, (b) tail-flick test (c) tail-clip test. Methods TCLE (100, 300, 1 000 and 2 000 mg/kg body wt.) was given to rats orally to observe acute toxicity for 14 d. Then test drug TCLE were given at dose of 100, 200 and 500 mg/kg p.o. and standard drug aspirin were given at a dose of 100 mg/kg p.o. Results No mortality was reported even after 14 d. This indicates that the methanol extract is safe up to a single dose of 2 000 mg/kg body weight. TCLE (100, 200 and 500 mg/kg p.o.) significantly inhibited abdominal constrictions (writhing) induced by acetic acid and increased the latency period in the tail flick and tail clip test. TCLE at the dose of 500 mg/kg showed significant anti-nociceptive activity compared to standard aspirin. Discussions The results of this study show that methanol extract of T. capensis possesses anti-nociceptive activity which may be mediated by the central and peripheral mechanisms.

789-795

Authors: Mohammad Barati, Hossein Keshavarz-valian, Majid Habibi-nokhandan, Ahmad Raeisi, Leyla Faraji, Abdoreza Salahi-moghaddam

Objective To conduct for modeling spatial distribution of malaria transmission in Iran. Methods Records of all malaria cases from the period 2008-2010 in Iran were retrieved for malaria control department, MOH&ME. Metrological data including annual rainfall, maximum and minimum temperature, relative humidity, altitude, demographic, districts border shapefiles, and NDVI images received from Iranian Climatologic Research Center. Data arranged in ArcGIS. Results 99.65% of malaria transmission cases were focused in southeast part of Iran. These transmissions had statistically correlation with altitude (650 m), maximum (30 °C), minimum (20 °C) and average temperature (25.3 °C). Statistical correlation and overall relationship between NDVI (118.81), relative humidity (⩾45%) and rainfall in southeast area was defined and explained in this study. Conclusions According to ecological condition and mentioned cut-off points, predictive map was generated using cokriging method.

803-809

Authors: Abebe Alemu, Yitayal Shiferaw, Aklilu Ambachew, Halima Hamid

Objective To assess the prevalence of malaria helminth co-infections and their contribution for aneamia in febrile patients attending Azzezo health center, Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A cross section study was conducted among febrile patients attending Azezo health center from February-March 30, 2011. Convenient sampling technique was used to select 384 individuals. Both capillary blood and stool were collected. Giemsa stained thick and thin blood film were prepared for identification of Plasmodium species and stool sample was examined by direct wet mount and formalin-ether concentration technique for detection of intestinal helminthes parasites. Haemoglobin concentration was determined using a portable haemoglobin spectrophotometer, Hemocue Hb 201 analyzer. Results Out of 384 febrile patients examined for malaria parasites, 44 (11.5%) individuals were positive for malaria parasites, of which Plasmodium vivax accounted for 75.0% (33), Plasmodium falciparum for 20.5% (9) infectious, whereas two person (4.5%) had mixed species infection. Prevalence of malaria was higher in males (28) when compared with prevalence in females (16). More than half (207, 53.9%) of study participants had one or more infection. Prevalence was slightly higher in females (109, 52.7%) than in males (98, 47.3%). About helminths, Ascaris lumbricoides was the predominant isolate (62.1%) followed by hookworms (18.4%). Only 22 participants were co-infected with malaria parasite and helminths and co-infection with Ascaris lumbricoides was predominant (45.0%). The prevalence of anemia was 10.9% and co-infection with Plasmodium and helminth parasites was significantly associated with (P< 0.000 1) higher aneamia prevalence compared to individuals without any infection. Conclusions Prevalence of malaria and soil transmitted helminths is high and the disease is still major health problem in the study area. Hence, simultaneous combat against the two parasitic infections is very crucial to improve health of the affected communities in economically developing countries.

814-817

Authors: Nchang Allo Nicoline Ngwing, J Wabo Poné, Mpoame Mbida, A Zoli Pagnah, H Njakoi, CF Bilong Bilong

Objective To examine the magnitude and some risk factors of porcine cysticercosis in Bafut and Santa, two sub-divisions noted for pig farming in the North West Region of Cameroon. Methods A total of 499 pigs in 300 households were examined by tongue inspection and serologically by Ag-ELISA. Information was sought on the age and sex of the animals, prevailing husbandry systems, types of feed, the state of each pen and the state of toilets. Futhermore, a questionnaire was administered to the farmers to determine their awareness on taeniasis/cysticercosis and related factors. Results The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in Santa (10.2%) than in Bafut (4.2%), although there was a higher level of awareness in both localities (62.3%). Age of pigs, traditional rearing systems (roaming, tethered, earth floor pen, raised floor pen), faecal disposal in the environment and poor sanitation significantly influenced the seroprevalence of porcine cysticercosis in both localities. Most farmers (79.7%) used a combination of concentrate, grass and kitchen waste to feed pigs. Financial loss from porcine cysticercosis was estimated at 346 900 CFA representing 2% of total income. Conclusions Control measures advanced here include sensitization campaigns, periodic examination and treatment of infected pigs by veterinarians, improved husbandry systems, proper use of standard latrines regularly inspected by sanitary officers, and sound hygienic and sanitary practices.

823-827

Authors: Sheng Chen, Yu-Ling Cheng, Shi-Ting Li, Yao-Jun Ni, Biao Gu

Objective To investigate the effect of chemoradiotherapy after surgery on III A stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods A total of 156 NSCLC patients undergoing total pneumonectomy or pulmonary lobectomy were included in this study. The chemotherapy group (n=75) received the protocol of cisplatin (DDP) + gemcitabine (GEM) / docetaxel (DOC) / vinorelbine (NVB); the radiotherapy + chemotherapy group (n=81) received sequential chemoradiotherapy. The response rate, local control rate in 1 to 2 years, overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and adverse reactions were evaluated. Results The overall response rate was obviously higher in radiotherapy + chemotherapy group (79.4%) than in chemotherapy group (56.8%) (P<0.01). The 1 year local control rates for chemotherapy group and radiotherapy + chemotherapy group were (69.1±7.9)% and (77.8±8.2)% respectively and the difference reached statistical significance (P<0.001). The 2 year local control rates were (42.1±6.1)% and (61.5±6.9)% respectively (P<0.001). The difference in median follow-up time between the two groups did not reach statistical meaning (P>0.05), while the median PFS of two groups were 10.8 months and 16.9 months respectively (P<0.001). 1-year and 3-year survival rates were obviously higher in radiotherapy + chemotherapy group than in chemotherapy group, and the difference reached statistical significance (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The adverse reactions manifested as hematological toxicity and digestive tract reaction in the two groups. In the radiotherapy + chemotherapy group, incidences of radiation-induced esophagus injury and lung injury were 24.7% and 34.6% respectively, all occurring within 2 to 6 weeks after the start of radiation and both below grade 2. Conclusions Chemoradiotherapy after surgery can improve local control rate and reduce or prevent distant metastasis, but there are still many controversies. In clinical work, we should carefully evaluate each patient's age, lung function, basic physical condition scoring and complications to choose a therapeutic schedule that is suitable for the patient.

834-836

Authors: TP Elamurugan, M Sivashanker, Suresh S Kumar, R Muthukumarassamy, Vikram Kate

Gastrointestinal tuberculosis accounts for 3% of the extrapulmonary tuberculosis with ileocaecal region being the common site of involvement up to 75%. Primary involvement of appendix is very rare and accounts for only 0.6% to 2.9% of gastrointestinal tuberculosis in the absence tubercular focus elsewhere. The pre-operative investigations usually give non-specific results. The diagnosis in most instances made only after histopathology. Here we report a case of primary appendicular tuberculosis in a patient presented with caecal perforation.

839-840

Authors: Asad U Khan, Saeedut Z Ali

None

673-676

Authors: EO Ettebong, PA Nwafor, JE Okokon

Objective To evaluate the in vivo antiplasmodial activities of the extract and fractions (n-hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate, butanol, aqueous) of the whole plant in Plasmodium berghei berghei infected mice. Methods Oral administrations of the extract (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg) of Eleucine indica and fractions (400 mg/kg) were screened in the 4-day, repository and curative tests. Chloroquine (5 mg/kg), pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg) and artesunate (5 mg/kg) were used as controls. Results The extract showed significant (P< 0.05–0.001) dose-dependent, antiplasmodial activity in the 4-day, repository and curative tests and increased the survival times of the infected mice. All the fractions exhibited significant antiplasmodial activity with the highest being ethylacetate fraction. Conclusions Eleucine indica extract and fractions possess antimalarial activity which confirms the ethnobotanical use of this plant as a malarial remedy and opens a new highway to further investigate its potentials in the on-going fight against malaria.

686-691

Authors: Talib Hussain, Ramesh K Gupta, K Sweety, Bavani Eswaran, M Vijayakumar, Chandana Venkateswara Rao

Objective To evaluate nephroprotective potential of Solanum xanthocarpum (S. xanthocarpum) fruit extract(SXE) against gentamicin (GM) induced nephrotoxicity and renal dysfunction. Methods Twenty-four Wistar rats were divided into four groups (n=6). Control rats that received normal saline (i.p.) and 0.5% carboxymethyl cellulose (p.o.) per day for 8 d. Nephrotoxicity was induced in rats by intraperitoneal administration of GM (100 mg/kg/d for 8 d) and were treated with SXE (200 and 400 mg/kg/d (p.o.) for 8 d). Plasma and urine urea and creatinine, kidney weight, urine output, blood urea nitrogen, renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants and lipid peroxidation was evaluated along with histopathological investigation in various experimental groupsof rats. Results It was observed that the GM treatment induced significant elevation (P<0.001) in plasma and urine urea, creatinine, kidney weight, blood urea nitrogen, renal lipid peroxidation along with significant decrement (P<0.001) in urine output, renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. SXE 200 and 400 mg/kg treatment to GM treated rats recorded significant decrement (up to P<0.001) in plasma and urine urea and creatinine, renal lipid peroxidation along with significant increment (up to P<0.001) in renal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Histological observations of kidney tissues too correlated with the biochemical observations. Conclusions These finding powerfully supports that S. xanthocarpum fruit extract acts in the kidney as a potent scavenger of free radicals to prevent the toxic effects of GM both in the biochemical and histopathological parameters and thus validates its ethnomedicinal use.

698-702

Authors: Sayyed Nadeem, Pradeep Dhore, Mohsin Quazi, Sunil Pawar, Navin Raj

Objective To investigate the effects of ethanolic extract of Lagenaria siceraria fruit (ELSF) on fat amassment and serum TNF– α in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. Methods The high fat diet induced obese rats were orally treated with orlistat (50 mg/kg) and ELSF (100, 200, 300 mg/kg/day) to the respective treatment groups. The body weight, fasting blood glucose level, lipid profile, serum levels of tumor necrosis factor– α (TNF–α) in rats were measured after 30 days of treatment and compared to the obese control animals. Results ELSF significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the body weight gain, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, total protein and TNF–α. Conclusions These encouraging findings suggest that Lagenaria siceraria has excellent pharmacological potential to prevent fat amassment.

709-712

Authors: Mudasir Ali Rather, Rabinder Singh Aulakh, Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Abdul Qayoom Mir, Mir Nadeem Hassan

Objective To investigate the detection and sequencing of plasmid encoded tetracycline resistance genes (tetA and tetB) from food-borne and standard strains of Bacillus cereus (B. cereus). Methods A PCR was carried out to detect the tetracycline resistance genes (tetA and tetB) in food-borne B. cereus strains and the amplified products were sequenced. Results The phenotypic resistance against tetracycline was observed in 39 of the 118 food-borne isolates and two reference strains (MTCC 430 and MTCC 1307) of B. cereus. Among the phenotypically resistant isolates, tetA was detected in 36 food-borne isolates and two reference strains (MTCC 430 and MTCC 1307), whereas, tetB was detected in 12 food-borne isolates and MTCC 1307 strain. Conclusions A close association was therefore found between phenotypic resistance against tetracycline and presence of tetracycline resistance genes. The tetA and tetB gene fragments were amplified, purified and sequenced. The gene sequences of the isolates studied herein were found similar to tetA and tetB gene sequences of other bacteria available in NCBI. The occurrence of tetA and tetB genes in B. cereus indicate the horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance determinants from other bacteria into B. cereus. The transfer of these resistant determinants to other potentially pathogenic bacteria may be a matter of great concern.

718-721

Authors: Varsha Gupta, Shailpreet Sidhu, Jagdish Chander

Objective To detect and evaluate the various methods for metallo- β -lactamases (MBL) production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Acinetobacter species. Methods A total of 109 P. aeruginosa and 85 Acinetobacter species were screened for imipenem resistance by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion methods. Detection of MBL production was done by imipenem-EDTA combined disc test, double disc synerygy test (DDST) and imipenem-EDTA MBL E test. Results A total of 63 (57.8%) strains of P. aeruginosa and 46 (54.1%) strains of Acinetobacter spp. were found to be resistant to imipenem. Of the 63 imipenem resistant P. aeruginosa tested for MBL production, 44 (69.8%) were found to be positive and among 46 imipenem resistant Acinetobacter, 19 (41.3%) were shown to be the MBL producers. Conclusions Imipenem-EDTA combined disc test and MBL E test are equally effective for MBL detection in both P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp., but given the cost-constraints, combined disc can be used as a convenient screening method in the clinical microbiology laboratory.

727-734

Authors: Mav Khun, Chantha Heng, Harun-Or-Rashid Md., Hideki Kasuya, Junichi Sakamoto

Objective To measure highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) among Cambodian women. Methods This cross-sectional study selected 246 married women aged between 18–55 years who had backyard poultry and lived at least one year in the areas of the survey through multi-stage cluster sampling. An average score of correct answers was generated to evaluate respondents' knowledge (Good/Poor), attitudes (Positive/Negative), and practices (Good/Bad). Results We reported that about half of the respondents had good knowledge and good practices and four-fifth of them had positive attitudes towards HPAI. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated through a logistic regression model to explore contributing factors that raise their KAP levels. Most of the sources were significant in increasing knowledge of the respondent, like television (OR=1.6, 95% CI=1.0–2.7), radio (OR=2.5, 95% CI=1.3–4.9), leaflets/booklets (OR=2.1, 95% CI=1.2–3.9), school students (OR=18.4, 95% CI=2.4–142.9), village health volunteers (OR=4.5, 95% CI=2.2–10.9) etc. Factors such as television (OR=3.7, 95% CI=2.1–6.4), leaflets/booklets (OR=2.6, 95% CI=1.4–5.1), and public health staff (OR=2.2, 95% CI=1.2–4.1) had similar influence on practices. Although, we found similar effect on raising the attitudes of the responded, it was not significant. Conclusions We report a satisfactory level of positive attitudes, and moderate level of knowledge and practices related to HPAI among Cambodian women. Raising KAPs through television, radio and other medias may be more efficient than using usual information, education and communication materials to prevent HPAI.

738-742

Authors: Zeng Liang, Li-Hua Gao, Li-Jun Cao, De-Yun Feng, Ya Cao, Qi-Zhi Luo, Ping Yu, Ming Li

Objective To measure the expression pattern of STAT2 in cervical cancer initiation and progression in tissue sections from patients with cervicitis, dysplasia, and cervical cancer. Methods Antibody against human STAT2 was confirmed by plasmids transient transfection and Western blot. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect STAT2 expression in the cervical biopsies by using the confirmed antibody against STAT2 as the primary antibody. Results It was found that the overall rate of positive STAT2 expression in the cervicitis, dysplasia and cervical cancer groups were 38.5%, 69.4% and 76.9%, respectively. The STAT2 levels are significantly increased in premalignant dysplasia and cervical cancer, as compared to cervicitis (P< 0.05). Noticeably, STAT2 signals were mainly found in the cytoplasm, implying that STAT2 was not biologically active. Conclusions These findings reveal an association between cervical cancer progression and augmented STAT2 expression. In conclusion, STAT2 increase appears to be an early detectable cellular event in cervical cancer development.

753-754

Authors: Suman S Karanth, Anurag Gupta, Mukhyaprana Prabhu

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a more serious form of disease characterised by plasma leakage syndrome, thrombocytopenia and disseminated intravascular coagulation. We present a 51 year old male who presented with fever, petechiae and acute onset of breathlessness. Emergency chest rhoentogram showed a massive right sided pleural effusion. On insertion of intercostal drain, there was a sudden gush of blood tinged fluid suggestive of hemothorax. There was no history of trauma or bleeding tendencies. Laboratory investigations revealed a raised hematocrit and severe thrombocytopenia. Dengue IgM was surprisingly positive. After aggressive supportive management the patient gradually improved and was discharged. While bilateral pleural effusion is a known occurrence in dengue hemorrhagic fever, massive hemothorax is unheard of. We report the first case in literature of dengue hemorrhagic fever presenting as unilateral massive hemothorax. A suspicion of dengue must also be borne in mind in cases of non-traumatic hemothorax especially in endemic areas.