The distribution of continuous data can often be closely approximated by the normal distribution (1). For example, the distribution of Cobb angles for scoliotic females may be represented by a normal distribution with a notional mean (μ) = 15 degrees and a notional standard deviation (σ) = 5 degrees, and is shown in figure 1. By assuming that these Cobb angles follow a normal distribution, we a...

BACKGROUND Chagas disease is due to the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, a protist disseminated by a Triatome vector. This disease is endemic to Latin America and considered by WHO as one of the 17 world's neglected diseases. In Europe and in North America, imported cases are also detected, due to migration of population outside of the endemic region. Diagnosis of T. cruzi infection is usually made ...

A large number of commensal bacteria inhabit the intestinal tract, and interbacterial communication among gut microbiota is thought to occur. In order to analyze symbiotic relationships between probiotic strains and the gut microbiota, a ring with a membrane filter fitted to the bottom was used for in vitro investigations. Test strains comprising probiotic nitto strains (Lactobacillus acidophil...

Creating sustainable bioeconomies for the 21st century relies on optimizing the use of biological resources to improve agricultural productivity and create new products. Arbuscular mycorrhizae (phylum Glomeromycota) form symbiotic relationships with over 80% of vascular plants. In return for carbon, these fungi improve plant health and tolerance to environmental stress. This symbiosis is over 4...

background: the prevalence of toxoplasma gondii infection in the blood donors has been poorly studied. the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in blood products. methods: a total of 250 blood products (112 fresh frozen plasma and 138 packed cells) in the blood transfusion institute, shiraz, iran were tested for spe-cific t. gondii antibodies (igg an...

TB (Tuberculosis) of intrathoracic lymph nodes is the most common form of tuberculosis disease in childhood. In Bulgaria, about 67%-70% of all newly diagnosed children patients are with this diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic capabilities of the T-SPOT TB in this form of TB disease. In a period of one year, 50 children aged 0-12 years treated in our hospital wi...