Search

[Display omitted] • There is considerable debate concerning species of Sarcocystis in cattle. • The history and biology of seven Sarcocystis spp. in cattle are reviewed. • Bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM) is an inflammatory condition linked to Sarcocystis infections. • The prevalence, lesions, and etiology of BEM are reviewed. • Economic and public health aspects of bovine sarcocystosis are reviewed. Infections by Sarcocystis in cattle are ubiquitous worldwide. There is considerable debate concerning the identity of Sarcocystis spp. in cattle. Proper diagnosis of Sarcocystis spp. is important to assess their economic and public health importance. Currently there are seven named species: Sarcocystis hirsuta, Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hominis, Sarcocystis bovifelis, arcocystis heydorni, Sarcocystis bovini and Sarcocystis rommeli. Additionally, there are unnamed Sarcocystis spp. Two species, S. hominis and S. heydorni, are zoonotic. One out of seven species (S. hirsuta, contracted from cats) forms macroscopic cysts which can be visible during carcass inspection. Current molecular characterization is based on DNA extracted from sarcocysts from naturally infected cattle because DNA was not characterized from tissues of experimentally infected cattle or feces of experimentally infected definitive hosts. Sarcocystis cruzi (transmitted via canids) is recognized as the most pathogenic species and it causes abortion, low milk yield, poor body growth, and outbreaks of clinical sarcocystosis and death. Additionally, Sarcocystis infections have been linked to an inflammatory condition of striated muscles termed bovine eosinophilic myositis (BEM). Cattle affected by BEM appear clinically normal. Diagnosis of BEM at slaughter occurs when inspecting the carcass surface, or once the carcass has been divided into prime cuts or quarters. Sex and breed have no apparent influence on prevalence of BEM. The condition evidently occurs with equal frequency in steers, cows, and heifers. Virtually all striated muscles can be affected including skeletal muscles, the muscles of the eye, larynx, and the heart. In the USA, regulations require condemnation of BEM-affected parts, or (in severe cases) the entire carcass. These aesthetic considerations result in economic losses. Cattle experimentally infected with Sarcocystis did not have BEM at slaughter. Here, we review the status of Sarcocystis spp. and BEM in cattle including prevalence, lesions, epidemiology, and association of BEM with different species of Sarcocystis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is rightly termed as the silent killer is a well-established risk factor leading the cardiovascular disease in affected subjects. Hypertension puts a large burden on the health care system and affects cardiovascular health to a major extent in Indian subjects. Aim: Thepresent study was conducted to assess the knowledge and awareness of the general practitioners concerning hypertension and its management. Materials and Methods:The present questionnaire-based study was conducted on 108 general practitioners who were well aware of the study design and were willing to answer the questionnaire. These subjects were enrolled after giving informed consent. Results: Most common presenting symptom was fatigue which was reported in 71.42% (n=70) subjects followed by palpitations seen in 39.79% (n=39) study subjects. Another reported symptom was dizziness reported by 37.75% (n=37 study subjects and the least common symptom was a headache in the morning reported in 28.57% (n=28) study subjects. The preferred position for recording blood pressure by general practitioners was standing used by 14.28% (n=14) practitioners, supine by 22.44% (n=22) practitioners, and sitting by 54.08% (n=53) general practitioners. Conclusion: The present study concludes that general physicians were well-informed about the diagnosis and management of the subjects with hypertension. However, accurate approach towards diagnosis, management, and history recording of subjects with hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Among all intermediate hosts of T. gondii, captive marsupials from Australia and New Zealand are highly susceptible to clinical toxoplasmosis. However, most free-range marsupials establish chronic T. gondii infection. Infected marsupial meat may serve as a source of T. gondii infection for humans. Differences in mortality patterns in different species of kangaroos and other marsupials are not fully understood. Lifestyle, habitat, and the genotype of T. gondii are predicted to be risk factors. For example, koalas are rarely exposed to T. gondii because they live on treetops whereas wallabies on land are frequently exposed to infection. Methods: The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, and genetic diversity of T. gondii infecting Australasian marsupials in their native habitat and among exported animals over the past decade. The role of genetic types of T. gondii and clinical disease is discussed. Results: Fatal toxoplasmosis has been diagnosed in captive Australasian marsupials in Argentina, Chile, China, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Spain, Turkey, and the USA. Most deaths occurred because of disseminated toxoplasmosis. Genetic characterization of T. gondii strains isolated from fatal marsupial infections identified Type III as well as atypical, nonclonal genotypes. Fatal toxoplasmosis was also diagnosed in free-ranging wombats (Vombatus ursinus) in Australia. Genetic characterization of DNA amplified directly from host tissues of subclinical culled kangaroos at slaughter identified many mixed-strain infections with both atypical and recombinant genotypes of T. gondii. Conclusions: Most Australasian marsupials in their native land, Australia and New Zealand, have high prevalence of T. gondii, and kangaroo meat can be a source of infection for humans if consumed uncooked/undercooked. The genotypes prevalent in kangaroos in Australia and New Zealand were genetically distinct from those isolated or genotyped from most macropods in the USA and other countries. Thus, clinical toxoplasmosis in marsupials imported from Australia is most likely to occur from infections acquired after importation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has emerged as the major public health threat in recent times. Although associated with high morbidity and mortality affecting all age groups across populations, "pregnant women" represent a subgroup that needs extra surveillance. We present the case of a primigravida in her advanced pregnancy presenting with acute febrile illness with flu-like symptoms. The clinico-radiological picture was suspicious for COVID-19; however, she tested negative for COVID-19 on two occasions. On further investigations, she tested positive for Scrub typhus (IgM-ELISA) and responded to treatment with doxycycline. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, much time was lost before suspecting and reaching the final diagnosis. Therefore, the patient had to suffer due to delayed medical intervention and intrauterine fetal death. Despite the unprecedented rise of COVID-19 in pregnant women in recent times, we should not forget about other tropical illnesses, which can mimic COVID-19 in clinical presentation and affect feto-maternal outcomes adversely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Among all intermediate hosts of T. gondii, captive marsupials from Australia and New Zealand are highly susceptible to clinical toxoplasmosis. However, most free-range marsupials establish chronic T. gondii infection. Infected marsupial meat may serve as a source of T. gondii infection for humans. Differences in mortality patterns in different species of kangaroos and other marsupials are not fully understood. Lifestyle, habitat, and the genotype of T. gondii are predicted to be risk factors. For example, koalas are rarely exposed to T. gondii because they live on treetops whereas wallabies on land are frequently exposed to infection. Methods: The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, and genetic diversity of T. gondii infecting Australasian marsupials in their native habitat and among exported animals over the past decade. The role of genetic types of T. gondii and clinical disease is discussed. Results: Fatal toxoplasmosis has been diagnosed in captive Australasian marsupials in Argentina, Chile, China, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Spain, Turkey, and the USA. Most deaths occurred because of disseminated toxoplasmosis. Genetic characterization of T. gondii strains isolated from fatal marsupial infections identified Type III as well as atypical, nonclonal genotypes. Fatal toxoplasmosis was also diagnosed in free-ranging wombats (Vombatus ursinus) in Australia. Genetic characterization of DNA amplified directly from host tissues of subclinical culled kangaroos at slaughter identified many mixed-strain infections with both atypical and recombinant genotypes of T. gondii. Conclusions: Most Australasian marsupials in their native land, Australia and New Zealand, have high prevalence of T. gondii, and kangaroo meat can be a source of infection for humans if consumed uncooked/undercooked. The genotypes prevalent in kangaroos in Australia and New Zealand were genetically distinct from those isolated or genotyped from most macropods in the USA and other countries. Thus, clinical toxoplasmosis in marsupials imported from Australia is most likely to occur from infections acquired after importation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal attack on human beings is a rare phenomenon and those who are living in the forest buffer zone areas are at greater risk. In this paper we present the report of a 21-year-old unmarried lady who was exposed to the mutilated body of her father who was killed in a tiger attack and was diagnosed as having post -traumatic stress disorder. The relational dialogue with her using Somatic Inkblot Test (SIS-II) is described and an analysis of her responses are provided, which led her to being free from her embodied disturbances. Using SIS projective images may facilitate the 'contact-full, dialogical-relational nature of gestalt work' and can help in processing the painful 'unfinished business' caused by a traumatic event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sir, Alkaptonuria (AKU) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of tyrosine metabolism caused by accumulation of homogentisic acid (HGA) in the connective tissues.[[1]] It presents with characteristic dark urine, ochronosis and systemic manifestations. Ochronosis initially becomes evident in the sclera (Osler's sign) and ears after 3rd decade.[[3]] Other manifestations include dusky discoloration of hands and azure lunulae. A case of alkaptonuria diagnosed in the 6th decade - A clinico-dermoscopic-histopathological view. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess the role of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in screening of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to compare its efficacy with 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) (World Health Organization [WHO]) screening criteria. Methods: A prospective observational study was performed on a total of 260 women attending antenatal outpatient department of our hospital at 24–28 weeks of gestation. All women underwent 75‐g OGTT testing, and WHO 1999 criteria was used for diagnosis of GDM. Also, a HbA1c test was performed for the same women. Results: Prevalence of GDM was found to be 19.6% by OGTT. Mean HbA1c values in GDM was significantly higher than non‐GDM. HbA1c correlated well with both fasting and 2 h postprandial levels but there was better correlation with 2‐h postprandial level. Conclusion: The incidence of gestational diabetes is rising in South‐East Asian countries, especially in India. HBA1c could be a potential screening test for GDM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • This paper reviews biology of Cystoisospora infections in dogs, including taxonomy, diagnosis, epidemiology, and treatment. • Endogenous stages of C. canis, C. ohioensis, and C. ohioensis -like coccidia are compared. • Drugs containing toltrazuril were found most efficacious for treating canine coccidiosis. Abstract Until 1970, coccidian parasites of dogs were considered to have a direct fecal-oral life cycle like Eimeria in poultry. They were thought to be non-host specific and infect both dogs and cats. Studies conducted in the 1970s revealed that dog coccidia were host-specific and had transport or paratenic hosts that were infected with an encysted stage containing a single organism, the monozoic tissue cyst. There are still considerable confusion and uncertainties concerning the life cycles and pathogenicity of coccidian parasites of dogs. The present paper reviews the history, taxonomy, life cycles, pathogenicity, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of conventional coccidian parasites previously called Isospora spp., currently designated Cystoisospora spp. that infect canines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • This paper reviews biology of Cystoisospora felis and C. rivolta infections in cats. • Impact of C. felis infections on Toxoplama gondii oocyst excretion is discussed. • Taxonomy of feline Cystoisospora species discussed. Abstract Until the discovery of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in cat feces in 1970, little was known of coccidiosis in cats. Until 1970, three coccidian parasites based on different sized oocysts were recognized, the parasite with large oocysts (∼40 μm long and called Isospora felis), medium sized oocysts (∼25 μm long, called Isospora rivolta), and small sized oocysts (14 μm or less, called Isospora bigemina) were known and they were considered not host-specific. Later, it was demonstrated that these parasites were host-specific and had also extra-intestinal stages. The Isospora bigemina turned out to be more than 25 organisms belonging to T. gondii , Hammondia spp., Sarcocystis spp., Besnoitia spp., and Neospora spp.; these subjects have been reviewed previously in detail. The present paper summarizes biology of Isospora felis , and I. rivolta (now transferred to genus Cystoisospora), including taxonomy, life cycle, diagnosis, and treatment. Re-excretion of T. gondii oocysts from chronically infected cats after superinfection with Cystoisospora felis oocysts is discussed. There are only two species of Cystoisospora species in cats, C. felis and C. rivolta ; Isospora novocati and Cystoisospora frenkeli named for I. rivolta -like parasites of cats are considered synonym of C. rivolta. Clinical coccidiosis occurs more commonly in recently weaned kittens and C. felis infections are more prevalent than C. rivolta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) for male permanent driving license (DL) applicants of Lucknow, India.Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional community based, study body mass index, waist-hip ratio, blood pressure of each subject were determined as an anthropometric parameter along with the history of habit of smoking, tobacco chewing, alcohol consumption. STOP-Bang (Snoring, Tired or sleepy, Observed apnea, high blood Pressure, Body mass index, Age, Neck, Gender) Questionnaire - a scoring risk assessment tool - was applied for assessment of OSA risk (high OSA risk defined by score ≥ 3) for 542 male DL recipients at 2 Regional Transport Office (RTO) centers in Lucknow, India. The statistical software SPSS 17.0 was applied to the testing.Results: In total 23% (N = 125) of participants were found with the risk of OSA. High blood pressure (≥ 140/90 mm Hg) was found for the maximum number of participants (40.5%) followed by neck circumference > 40 cm (17.1%), age (> 50 years old) (15.3%), snoring (12.3%) and tired/sleepy (10.5%). Mean values of age, anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were observed significantly higher (p < 0.001) for participants with the OSA risk. In this population the risk of OSA risk (STOP-Bang score ≥ 3) was observed for 6.7% of young (< 35 years old), 34% of middle (35-45 years old) and 73% of elder age adults (> 45 years old).Conclusions: In view of findings of this study a high number of male driving license applicants were observed with the risk of OSA. Therefore efforts should be made to develop a national screening guideline/protocol for the OSA risk assessment for driving license applicants in India. This may reduce the possibility of road traffic accidents due to the OSA-associated fatigue and drowsiness behind the wheels. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2018;31(1):25-36. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients presenting with a painful swollen leg are not infrequently encountered at the emergency department and can pose a diagnostic dilemma for attending physicians. The potential causes of leg pain and swelling include trauma, infection, inflammation, and neurogenic, vascular, and iatrogenic conditions; with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) being an important tool in evaluation. We describe the MRI features of various conditions causing painful swollen legs. We also discuss the differential diagnosis and the useful clinical and laboratory findings that radiologists should be aware of, in order to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Major difficulty in development of dengue diagnostics is availability of suitable antigens. To overcome this, we made an attempt to develop a peptide based diagnosis which offers significant advantage over other methods. With the help of in silico methods, two epitopes were selected from envelope protein and three from NS1 protein of dengue virus. These were synthesized in combination as three multiple antigenic peptides (MAPs). We have tested 157 dengue positive sera confirmed for NS1 antigen. MAP1 showed 96.81% sera positive for IgM and 68.15% positive for IgG. MAP2 detected 94.90% IgM and 59.23% IgG positive sera. MAP3 also detected 96.17% IgM and 59.87% IgG positive sera. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study describing the use of synthetic multiple antigenic peptides for the diagnosis of dengue infection. This study describes MAPs as a promising tool for the use in serodiagnosis of dengue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To validate predictive models for neural antibody positivity and immunotherapy response in epilepsy. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of epilepsy cases at Mayo Clinic (Rochester- MN; Scottsdale- AZ, and Jacksonville- FL) in whom autoimmune encephalopathy/epilepsy/dementia autoantibody testing profiles were requested (06/30/2014-06/30/2016). An Antibody Prevalence in Epilepsy ( APE) score, based on clinical characteristics, was assigned to each patient. Among patients who received immunotherapy, a Response to Immunotherapy in Epilepsy ( RITE) score was assigned. Favorable seizure outcome was defined as >50% reduction of seizure frequency at the first follow-up . Results Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 1,736 patients were sent to the Mayo Clinic Neuroimmunology Laboratory for neural autoantibody evaluation. Three hundred eighty-seven of these patients met the diagnostic criteria for epilepsy. Central nervous system (CNS)-specific antibodies were detected in 44 patients. Certain clinical features such as new-onset epilepsy, autonomic dysfunction, viral prodrome, faciobrachial dystonic seizures/oral dyskinesia, inflammatory CSF profile, and mesial temporal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities had a significant association with positive antibody results. A significantly higher proportion of antibody-positive patients had an APE score ≥4 (97.7% vs. 21.6%, p < 0.01). Sensitivity and specificity of an APE score ≥4 to predict presence of specific neural auto-antibody were 97.7% and 77.9%, respectively. In the subset of patients who received immunotherapy (77), autonomic dysfunction, faciobrachial dystonic seizures/oral dyskinesia, early initiation of immunotherapy, and presence of antibodies targeting plasma membrane proteins (cell-surface antigens) were associated with favorable seizure outcome. Sensitivity and specificity of a RITE score ≥7 to predict favorable seizure outcome were 87.5% and 83.8%, respectively. Significance APE and RITE scores can aid diagnosis, treatment, and prognostication of autoimmune epilepsy. A PowerPoint slide summarizing this article is available for download in the Supporting Information section . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on a study related to the specificity and applicability of antibody prevalence in Epilepsy and Encephalopathy. It notes the models designed to predict seropositivity of neural‐specific antibodies and favorable response to an immunotherapy trial among patients with epilepsy. It notes that the diagnostic algorithm may aid clinicians in the management of epilepsy of unknown etiology.

Background In children, migraine with or without aura is a common entity, however variants like recurrent painful optic neuropathy (RPON) is rarely encountered. Case result A 9 year old boy presented with headache for 1 week and restricted movements and drooping in both eyes for last 3 days. On examination he had bilateral ophthalmoplegia and ptosis. History of migrainous headache was present in the patient as well as his mother. His MRI brain with venogram, serum autoimmune markers, serum and urine toxicology screen and repetitive nerve stimulation test were normal. He received intravenous pulse followed by oral steroids for 6 weeks and was started on antimigraine prophylaxis. Eighteen months since the attack, he has improved completely with mild asymmetric mydriasis persisting. Discussion and conclusion This may represent first attack of RPON in a child with migraine. Rarely this may herald the onset of migraine as well, index of suspicion should be high as it is a diagnosis of exclusion and a treatable entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Heterogeneity of presenting symptoms makes the initial clinical diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) challenging.Methods: Observational retrospective study from 2 teaching hospitals (Parkland Memorial Hospital and University of Texas Southwestern University Hospital) between 2008 and 2013.Results: Sixty-nine GBS patients were identified. GBS was suspected on initial emergency department visit in only 49%. During first hospital encounter, 58% were evaluated by a neurologist. Neuropathic pain and presence of intact deep tendon reflexes were associated with delayed GBS diagnosis (P < 0.05). There was significantly better clinical outcome among patients who were evaluated by a neurologist during the initial visit (P < 0.005). Among these patients there was also significant difference in discharge destination; 71.2% of patients evaluated by a neurologist were discharged home (P < 0.01). Patients in whom GBS was not suspected at the time of initial Neurology evaluation were more likely to require intubation and to have residual weakness at the time of discharge (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Atypical clinical signs and symptoms may lead to delayed diagnosis of GBS. Early neurological evaluation is associated with improved clinical diagnosis and discharge disposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-range chickens are a good indicator of soil contamination with oocysts because they feed from the ground and they are also an important source of infection for cats that in turn shed oocysts after eating tissues of intermediate hosts. Little is known of the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis in chickens. In the present study 90 Toxoplasma gondii seronegative, sentinel chickens were placed on three (30 each) swine farms in New England in November, 2003. Chickens were bled monthly and their sera were tested for T. gondii antibodies by the modified agglutination test (MAT, cut-off 1:25). Chickens that seroconverted were euthanized and their tissues were bioassayed in mice, cats, or both. Over the course of the experiment (7 months), 31 of 71 chickens seroconverted (MAT 1:100 or higher). Tissues of 26 seropositive chickens were bioassayed in both cats and mice; viable T. gondii was isolated, by bioassay in mice, from hearts (whole) of all 26 chickens, brains (whole) of 3 chickens and leg muscles (25 g) of 11 chickens; 21 of 26 cats fed 250 g of muscle from seropositive chickens excreted T. gondii oocysts. Results indicated that the density of T. gondii in poultry muscle is low but heart is the tissue of choice for isolation of viable parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Differences in social communication are commonly reported in autism spectrum condition (ASC). A recent theory attributes this to a reduced motivation to engage with others, that is, deficits in social motivation. However, there are currently few simple, direct, behavioural ways to test this claim. This study uses a new behavioural measure of social motivation to test if preferences for direct gaze and face stimuli are linked to autistic traits or an ASC diagnosis. Our novel choose-a-movie (CAM) paradigm measures the effort participants invest to see particular stimuli. This aspect of social motivation is also known as social seeking. Methods: In experiment 1, 80 typical adults completed the CAM task and a measure of autistic traits. In experiment 2, 30 adults with ASC and 24 age/IQ-matched typical adults completed the CAM paradigm. Results: The results from study one showed that typical adults prefer social stimuli over non-social, but this preference is weaker in those with higher levels of autistic traits. In study two, adults with ASC showed a significant reduction in their preference for direct gaze but little difference in their preference for faces without direct gaze. Conclusions: These data show that social motivation can be measured in a simple, direct, behavioural paradigm. Furthermore, adults with ASC prefer direct gaze less than typical adults but may not avoid faces without direct gaze. This data advance our understanding of how social motivation may differ between those with and without autism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symptoms of yellowing, little leaf and witches' broom on Cannabis sativa L. ssp. s ativa and C. sativa L. ssp. indica plants were recorded in and around sugarcane fields at Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, during May-June 2013. Symptomatic plants yielded phytoplasma DNA bands of ~1.2 kb from nested PCR assays using universal phytoplasma primers P1/P6 and R16F2n/R16R2. BLASTn search analysis of both C. sativa ssp. phytoplasma isolates showed that the 16S rDNA sequences shared a 99 % of sequence identity between each other and with those of the phytoplasma strains of 16SrXIV group ( 'Candidatus Phytoplasma cynodontis'). Phylogenetic analysis of the 16SrDNA sequences of both phytoplasma isolates revealed their closest relationship with members of the 16SrXIV group. This supports the association of phytoplasma strains of the 16Sr XIV group with Cannabis little leaf and witches' broom diseases (Can LL-WB). Actual and virtual RFLP analysis of the 16S rDNA sequences of Can LL-WB phytoplasma isolates confirmed that they belonged to the 16Sr XIV-A subgroup. This is the first world report of a 16SXIV-A subgroup phytoplasma infection in C. sativa sp. sativa and C. sativa sp. indica plants . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors highlight two conditions described in a report that resemble amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Topics covered include symmetric skin changes from eosinophilic fasciitis, early-onset generalized fasciculations and electromyography results of active denervation and reinnervation, and the challenge of confirming the diagnosis of Lyme disease.

Abstract: Neospora caninum is a protozoan parasite of animals. Until 1988, it was misdiagnosed as Toxoplasma gondii. Since its first recognition in 1984 in dogs and the description of a new genus and species Neospora caninum in 1988, neosporosis has emerged as a serious disease of cattle and dogs worldwide. Abortions and neonatal mortality are a major problem in livestock operations and neosporosis is a major cause of abortion in cattle. This review is focused on current status of neosporosis in animals based on papers published in the last five years. Worldwide seroprevalences are tabulated. Strategies for control and prevention are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report two cases of lithium-associated Mobitz II block. Both patients required placement of a permanent pacemaker due to persistent block and symptoms despite attempts at lowering the daily dose of lithium. We then reviewed the literature on this rare complication. Chronic lithium therapy may be associated with development of conduction block at or below the level of the atrioventricular node. Patients taking lithium should be monitored closely for development of cardiovascular complications. (PACE 2011; 34:e47-e51) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteins are the building block of living body and here we are dealing with some specific proteins are involve in the breast cancer in the women. Plasma samples of normal healthy persons and cancer patients reported with abnormality were compared with controls by electrophoresis. The molecular weight of a protein which was found in the test was determined by using molecular weight markers. Methods used for the analysis are plasma separation, tissue extraction, SDS-PAGE and Native PAGE. These proteins used as marker for the diagnosis of any specific subject. The protein of molecular weight 64478Da was found unique in the plasma of Breast Cancer when the control plasma was studied as compared with Breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Humans become infected with Toxoplasma gondii mainly by ingesting uncooked meat containing viable tissue cysts or by ingesting food or water contaminated with oocysts from the feces of infected cats. Circumstantial evidence suggests that oocyst-induced infections in humans are clinically more severe than tissue cyst-acquired infections. Until recently, waterborne transmission of T. gondii was considered uncommon, but a large human outbreak linked to contamination of a municipal water reservoir in Canada by wild felids and the widespread infection of marine mammals in the USA provided reasons to question this view. The present paper examines the possible importance of T. gondii transmission by water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper the history of Toxoplasma gondii and toxoplasmosis is reviewed. This protozoan parasite was first discovered in 1908 and named a year later. Its medical importance remained unknown until 1939 when T. gondii was identified in tissues of a congenitally infected infant, and veterinary importance became known when it was found to cause abortion storms in sheep in 1957. The discovery of a T. gondii specific antibody test, Sabin–Feldman dye test in 1948 led to the recognition that T. gondii is a common parasite of warm-blooded hosts with a worldwide distribution. Its life cycle was not discovered until 1970 when it was found that felids are its definitive host and an environmentally resistant stage (oocyst) is excreted in feces of infected cats. The recent discovery of its common infection in certain marine wildlife (sea otters) indicates contamination of our seas with T. gondii oocysts washed from land. Hygeine remains the best preventive measure because currently there is no vaccine to prevent toxoplasmosis in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The protozoan parasite Neospora caninum is a major cause of abortion in cattle. The diagnosis of neosporosis-associated mortality and abortion in cattle is difficult. In the present paper we review histologic, serologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular methods for dignosis of bovine neosporosis. Although not a routine method of diagnosis, methods to isolate viable N. caninum from bovine tissues are also reviewed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Humans become infected with Toxoplasma gondii mainly by ingesting uncooked meat containing viable tissue cysts or by ingesting food or water contaminated with oocysts from the feces of infected cats. Circumstantial evidence suggests that oocyst-induced infections in humans are clinically more severe than tissue cyst-acquired infections. Until recently, water-borne transmission of T. gondii was considered uncommon but a large human outbreak linked to contamination of a municipal water reservoir in Canada by wild felids and the widespread infection by marine mammals in the USA provide reasons to question this view. The present paper reviews information on the biology of oocyst-induced infections of T. gondii in humans and animals and examines possible importance of transmission by water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Protozoal dermatitis was diagnosed in a 6-year-old female Great Dane dog from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The dog died because of a chronic illness with an Ehrlichia-like organism. Numerous apicomplexan parasites were identified histologically in the section of dermal lesions. The protozoan reacted with Toxoplasma gondii polyclonal rabbit serum but not with Neospora caninum or Sarcocystis neurona antibodies. Ultrastructurally, the protozoa was not T. gondii because it had schizont-like structures with merozoites arranged around a prominent residual body, and the merozoites had several rhoptries with electron-dense contents; rhoptries in T. gondii tachyzoites are electron-lucent and a residual body is not found in groups of tachyzoites. This is the first report of unidentified T. gondii-like protozoa in the skin of a dog. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Toxoplasma gondii affects most species of warm-blooded animals, including birds. There is considerable confusion regarding the identity of T. gondii-like parasites and the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in wild birds. In this review, T. gondii-like infections in different species of wild birds are reviewed with particular reference to prevalences, clinical signs, pathology, diagnosis, and treatment. Although subclinical T. gondii infections are prevalent in many avian species, toxoplasmosis can be clinically severe in pigeons and canaries. Blindness associated with T. gondii in canaries is reviewed in detail. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious and contagious disease caused by various strains of Mycobacterium and the foremost leading cause of death of animal and human population worldwide. Currently available conventional and modern diagnostic techniques are useful but they are neither rapid nor cost effective for early and accurate diagnosis, represents a cornerstone to eradicate TB worldwide by 2030. To overcome this awful situation an innovative strategy i.e. nanotechnology is helpful for early diagnosis of tuberculosis in short time with increased sensitivity and specificity through nano sized biomolecular interaction viz. enhanced visualization of fluorescent signals, visual colorimetric signals of amplified DNA product, nanofluidic technology, nuclear magnetic resonance technology (NMR) and prototype miniaturized device etc. Nanotechnology has introduced new paradigms for molecular diagnostics. However, some constraints of nanodiagnostic tool still there that make obstacle in its worldwide diagnostic use for TB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sericulture, the practice of rearing silkworms for the production of silk, is an essential agro‐based industry in several countries. However, silkworms are susceptible to a variety of diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites, which may have a significant negative impact on global silk production. Traditional methods of pathogen identification, such as microscopy and laboratory culturing, have limitations in terms of accuracy and efficiency. The development of molecular techniques for pathogen identification has revolutionised the field of sericulture over the last decade. Genomic DNA and RNA‐based molecular techniques allow for the rapid and accurate detection of disease‐causing pathogens in silkworms. Molecular diagnosis has several advantages over traditional methods, including increased sensitivity and specificity, shorter turnaround time and the ability to detect pathogens that are difficult to culture or visualise under a microscope. Molecular techniques have been applied to detect several important pathogens of silkworms, including Nosema sp., nucleopolyhedrovirus, cypovirus, iflavirus and bidensovirus. The use of molecular diagnostics in sericulture is immensely important as the demand for high‐quality silk increases globally and the assessment of emerging pathogens associated with crop loss is essential. Major advancements in the improvement and application of molecular methods for diagnosing widespread silkworm pathogens are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pigs are considered as the main meat source of Toxoplasma gondii infections in humans in some countries. • This paper reviews biology of T. gondii in pigs in the last decade (2009–2019). • Information on the spread of Chinese 1, ToxoDB genotype #9 in pigs in China is reviewed. • Safety of ready to eat pork products with respect to T. gondii infection is discussed. Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Toxoplasma gondii infection in pigs continues to be of public health concern. Pigs are important for the economy of many countries, particularly, USA, China, and European countries. Among the many food animals, pigs are considered the most important for T. gondii transmission in USA and China because viable parasites have rarely been isolated from beef or indoor raised chickens. Besides public health issues, T. gondii causes outbreaks of clinical toxoplasmosis in pigs in China, associated with a unique genotype of T. gondii (ToxoDB genotype #9 or Chinese 1), rarely found in other countries. The safety of ready to eat pork products with respect to T. gondii infection is a matter of recent debate. Here, we review in detail seroprevalence, prevalence of viable and nonviable T. gondii , epidemiology, risk assessment, diagnosis, and curing of pork products containing T. gondii for the past decade. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We review biology of Toxoplasma gondii infections in marine mammals in the past decade (2009–2020). • Worldwide estimates of prevalence are tabulated for each host and discussed. • Genetic diversity of T. gondii and clinical associations are discussed. Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. T. gondii causes mortality in several species of marine mammals, including threatened Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris) and endangered Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauinslandi). Marine mammals are now considered sentinels for environmental exposure to protozoan agents contaminating marine waters, including T. gondii oocysts. Marine mammals also serve as food for humans and can result in foodborne T. gondii infections in humans. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, and genetic diversity of T. gondii infecting marine mammals in the past decade. The role of genetic types of T. gondii and clinical disease is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We review biology of Toxoplasma gondii infections in dogs in the past decade. • Worldwide prevalence data are tabulated and discussed. • Genetic diversity of T. gondii in dogs and its significance is discussed. Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, diagnosis, and genetic diversity of T. gondii in dogs (Canis familiaris) from 2009−2020. Seroprevalence estimates of T. gondii worldwide were tabulated. Reports of high seroprevalence in canine population and high congenital transmission of T. gondii in dogs in Brazil are reviewed. Most reports from China were published in Chinese, and these reports are now summarized here. Dogs have an additional importance in some countries such as China, Vietnam, and Nigeria; whereas in many cities dog meat is sold commercially for human consumption and given to felids, and transmission of T. gondii could occur if meat is not cooked properly. Dogs can ingest T. gondii -infected cat feces and these oocysts remain viable after passage through the digestive tract of the dog; T. gondii DNA was found in feces of dogs from New York City parks in USA. Most clinical canine cases of toxoplasmosis were in immunosuppressed dogs, and ulcerative dermatitis was one of the main presentations. Genetic diversity based on PCR-RFLP markers using DNA derived from 133 viable T. gondii isolates from dogs from several countries is discussed. T. gondii strains from Asia and Americas were more genetically diverse than those from Africa. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This review all about Toxoplasma gondii infections in sheep in the past decade. • Recent data concerning pathogenesis of abortion in sheep are reviewed. • Genetic diversity of T. gondii in sheep and its significance is discussed. Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. The present review summarizes worldwide information on the prevalence of clinical and subclinical infections, epidemiology, diagnosis, control, and genetic diversity of T. gondii in sheep in the past decade. There is debate and uncertainty concerning repeat congenital infection as evidenced by finding T. gondii DNA in progeny of chronically infected sheep. However, there is no concrete evidence that T. gondii is the cause of repeated abortions in sheep. Recent data concerning pathogenesis of abortion in acutely infected sheep are reviewed. PCR-RFLP typing of T. gondii DNA derived from viable T. gondii isolates or tissues of infected sheep revealed low genetic diversity in sheep in Europe, Africa, Asia and North America but high diversity in South America. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) of the breast is a rare tumor and it is classified by World Health Organization in 2003 classification under 'mucin producing carcinomas'. Pure form of SRCC breast is an extremely rare entity and very few cases have been reported in literature so far. We present a case of pure primary SRCC of the breast in a 70-year-old female, which was diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology. Cytological features generally show cellular smears with tumor cells showing eccentrically placed large, irregular nuclei showing indentations at places with cytoplasmic vacuoles. This case is being presented in view of its characteristic cytological features and its rarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fungal infection of the nails is a common, difficult to treat problem, prevalent worldwide. A discrepancy in the microscopic examination and culture findings can create problems in the diagnosis of this common infection. Aim: This study was designed to evaluate a new method for accurate diagnosis of onychomycosis. Materials and Methods: Nail samples from 25 patients of suspected onychomycosis were taken. A portion of the samples was treated with 2% trypsin before culturing and the rest was processed by the standard mycological technique. Results: A higher number of culture positive samples were obtained by the trypsin treatment method as compared to the standard technique. Conclusion: Trypsin treatment prior to culture increases the isolation of fungi from nail samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cats are the only hosts that can excrete the environmentally resistant oocysts. • This paper reviews all aspects of biology of T. gondii in cats in the last decade (2009-2019). • Information on the spread of a new genotype (Chinese 1, ToxoDB genotype #9) in cats in China is reviewed. This genotype can cause clinical disease in livestock and people. Toxoplasma gondii infections are common in humans and animals worldwide. Toxoplasmosis continues to be of public health concern. Cats (domestic and wild felids) are the most important host in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis because they are the only species that can excrete the environmentally resistant oocysts in feces. Cats can excrete millions of oocysts and a single cat can spread infection to many hosts. The present paper summarizes information on prevalence, persistence of infection, clinical signs, and diagnosis of T. gondii infections in domestic and wild cats for the past decade. Special emphasis is paid to genetic diversity of T. gondii isolates from cats. Review of literature indicates that a unique genotype (ToxoDB genotype #9 or Chinese 1) is widely prevalent in cats in China and it has been epidemiologically linked to outbreaks of clinical toxoplasmosis in pigs and deaths in humans in China; this genotype has rarely been detected in other countries. This review will be of interest to biologists, parasitologists, veterinarians, and public health workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Canine oral fibrosarcomas are locally invasive malignant mesenchymal tumors and the third most frequently occurring neoplasia of oral cavity of dogs. The present study was conducted to record pathological features of oral fibrosarcomas in canines. Methods: During the study period (September 2020- April 2021), a total of 18 cases of canine oral neoplasia were reported and amongst these fibrosarcoma was diagnosed in five animals (27.78%). The blood samples were collected from all the dogs and the excised tumor mass was processed at Department of Veterinary Pathology, Co.V.Sc. and A.H., Jabalpur. Result: The hematological prof ile of all the f ive dogs showed no variation however; serum biochemical analysis revealed hypercalcemia. The serum MDA concentration was elevated in dogs with fibrosarcoma, indicating oxidative stress. The gross morphology of the tumors included red to pink colored irregular masses, hard in consistency and firmly attached to the underlying tissue. Cytologically, the impression smears revealed spindle shaped cells with round to elongated nuclei along with strands of collagen fibres. Upon histopathological examination proliferation of fibrous connective tissue was observed in the sub-mucosa. Higher magnif ication revealed several immature spindle shaped f ibroblasts along with scanty amounts of collagenous matrix. Masson's trichome staining also exhibited blue stained collagen deposition. Mitotic figures were numerous (8.4 mitosis/10 hpf). The tissue sections stained by modified silver colloid staining were examined at 1000 - magnification. Mean Ag-NOR count of the silver nitrate stained tissue sections was enumerated to be 9.15 dots/nucleus. Immunohistochemical examinat ion detected CD31 immunopositivity in the tissue sections as brown staining of the infiltrating blood vessels, indicating neovascularization of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to report a small case series of patients with iridoschisis seen at our hospital over a period of 5 years. METHODS: Retrospective review of all those files over the past 5 years whereby the diagnosis of iridoschisis/iris atrophy/iris fibrils in anterior chamber (AC) was made. RESULTS: In our case series, the average age at presentation was 49 years (range: 23–85 years). The pathology was bilateral in 57% of patients in our series. Our most common presentations were angle closure glaucoma and cataract. Younger individuals can also manifest iridoschisis. CONCLUSION: The iridoschisis can be an incidental finding, and gonioscopy should be performed in all the cases, as occludable or synechiael angle closure may be present in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is an initial diagnostic test that has been found to be simple and cost effective but it is associated with pitfalls due to difference in correlations between FNAC and Histopathological Examination (HPE). Methods: A study was undertaken with a total of 112 patientspresenting with thyroid nodule who underwent thyroid surgeries. Preoperative FNAC and postoperative HPE were evaluated to calculate sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value and accuracy. Results: In our study we found sensitivity to be 81.48%, specificity 95.29%, positive predictive value 84.61%, Negative predictive value 94.18% and accuracy to be 91.16%. Conclusion: Thus we can conclude that FNAC is a simple, safe and cost-effective diagnostic modality in the investigation of Thyroid nodule with high specificity and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We compared the performance of 7th and 8th edition of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) / American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in non-metastatic (stage I-III) North American cohort undergoing primary radiation treatment. Methods Newly diagnosed NSCLC between (Jan 2011 – Dec 2014) were screened through a Canadian Provincial Cancer Registry. Clinico-radiologically and pathologically confirmed non-metastatic NSCLC undergoing primary radiation treatment were included. Kaplan-Meier methods, Cox proportional hazard regression and Akaike information criterion (AIC) were applied to evaluate discriminatory ability and prognostic performance of 7th and 8th edition of staging systems. Results In this cohort of 295 patients, 8th edition stages IA3, IB, IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB, and IIIC showed progressive increase in the hazard ratio compared to best stage IA2 (8th edition IA3 vs IA2: HR 1.72; IB vs IA2: HR 2.04; IIA vs IA2: HR 2.66; IIB vs IA2: HR 2.91; IIIA vs IA2: HR 3.38; IIIB vs IA2: HR 3.62 and IIIC vs IA2: HR 8.22). In a multivariate model, 8th edition stage grouping had smaller AIC of 2342.08 compared to 7th edition 2349.55, confirming better performance. International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) map based nodal categorization N1, N2 and N3, showed good survival and hazard discrimination over stage N0 (1.39, 1.48 and 2.16 respectively). Conclusion In an independent cohort of non-metastatic NSCLC undergoing primary radiation treatment, improved performance of 8 th edition UICC/AJCC staging system over 7th edition was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stiff person spectrum disorder (SPSD) is heterogeneous, and accurate diagnosis can be challenging. Methods: Patients referred for diagnosis/suspicion of SPSD at the Mayo Autoimmune Neurology Clinic from July 01, 2016, to June 30, 2021, were retrospectively identified. SPSD diagnosis was defined as clinical SPSD manifestations confirmed by an autoimmune neurologist and seropositivity for high‐titer GAD65‐IgG (>20.0 nmol/L), glycine‐receptor‐IgG or amphiphysin‐IgG, and/or confirmatory electrodiagnostic studies (essential if seronegative). Clinical presentation, examination, and ancillary testing were compared to differentiate SPSD from non‐SPSD. Results: Of 173 cases, 48 (28%) were diagnosed with SPSD and 125 (72%) with non‐SPSD. Most SPSD were seropositive (41/48: GAD65‐IgG 28/41, glycine‐receptor‐IgG 12/41, amphiphysin‐IgG 2/41). Pain syndromes or functional neurologic disorder were the most common non‐SPSD diagnoses (81/125, 65%). SPSD patients more commonly reported exaggerated startle (81% vs. 56%, p = 0.02), unexplained falls (76% vs. 46%, p = 0.001), and other associated autoimmunity (50% vs. 27%, p = 0.005). SPSD more often had hypertonia (60% vs. 24%, p < 0.001), hyperreflexia (71% vs. 43%, p = 0.001), and lumbar hyperlordosis (67% vs. 9%, p < 0.001) and less likely functional neurologic signs (6% vs. 33%, p = 0.001). SPSD patients more frequently had electrodiagnostic abnormalities (74% vs. 17%, p < 0.001), and at least moderate symptomatic improvement with benzodiazepines (51% vs. 16%, p < 0.001) or immunotherapy (45% vs. 13% p < 0.001). Only 4/78 non‐SPSD patients who received immunotherapy had alternative neurologic autoimmunity. Interpretation: Misdiagnosis was threefold more common than confirmed SPSD. Functional or non‐neurologic disorders accounted for most misdiagnoses. Clinical and ancillary testing factors can reduce misdiagnosis and exposure to unnecessary treatments. SPSD diagnostic criteria are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis ( EPM) relies heavily on the clinical examination. The accurate identification of neurologic signs during a clinical examination is critical to the interpretation of laboratory results. Objective To investigate the level of agreement between board-certified veterinary internists when performing neurologic examinations in horses. Animals Ninety-seven horses admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at The Ohio State University from December 1997 to June 1998. Methods A prospective epidemiologic research design was used. Horses enrolled in the study were examined by the internist responsible for care of the horse, and later by an internist who was not aware of the presenting complaint or other patient history. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, and kappa ( K) statistics were calculated to assess interobserver agreement. Results Ninety-seven horses were enrolled in the study. Overall, examiners, also referred to as observers, agreed that 60/97 (61.9%) were clinically abnormal, 21/97 (21.6%) were clinically normal, and the status of 16/97 (16.5%) of horses was contested. There was complete agreement among the examiners with regard to cranial nerve signs and involuntary movements. Disagreement involving severity of clinical signs occurred in 31 horses, and 25 of those horses (80.6%) were considered either normal or mildly affected by the primary observer. When examining the results of all paired clinical examinations for 11 different categories, there was wide variability in the results. When examiners rated the presence or absence of any neurologic abnormalities, lameness, or ataxia, the agreement among observers was either good or excellent for 80% of horses. When assessing truncal sway, the agreement among observers was good or excellent for 60% of the horses. When examining the horses for asymmetry of deficits, agreement was either good or excellent for 40% of the horses. Agreement among observers was excellent or good for only 20% of the horses when assessing muscle atrophy, spasticity (hypermetria), and overall assessment of the severity of neurologic abnormalities. Conclusions and Clinical Importance This study underscores the subjectivity of the neurologic examination and demonstrates a reasonable level of agreement that may be achieved when different clinicians examine the same horse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]