bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free bednets to pregnant women through antenatal clinics in Kenya: a cheap, simple and equitable approach to delivery
Authors: Guyatt Helen L. , Gotink Marinus H. , Ochola Sam A. , Snow Robert W.
Published: March 2003

Kenya's National Malaria Strategy states that insecticide‐treated nets (ITNs) would be considered as a free service to pregnant women assuming sufficient financial commitment from donors. In 2001, United Nation's Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Government of Kenya brokered support to procure and distribute nets and K‐O TABs (deltamethrin) to 70 000 pregnant women in 35 districts throughout Kenya around Africa Malaria Day. This intervention represented the single largest operational distribution of ITN services in Kenya to date, and this study evaluates its success, limitations and costs. The tracking process from the central level through to antenatal clinic (ANC) facilities suggests that of the 70 000 nets procured, 37 206 nets (53%) had been distributed to pregnant women throughout the country within 12 weeks. One‐fifth of the nets procured (14 117) had gone out to individuals other than pregnant women, most of these at the request of the district teams, with only 2870 nets estimated to have gone astray at the ANC facilities. At 12 weeks, the remaining 18 677 nets were still in storage awaiting distribution, with more than two‐thirds having reached the district, and nearly half already being held at ANC facilities. The cost of getting a net and K‐O TAB to an ANC facility ready for distribution to a pregnant woman was US$ 3.81. Accounting for the 14 117 nets that had gone to other users, the cost for an ITN received by a pregnant woman was US$ 5.26. Delivering ITNs free to pregnant women through ANCs uses an existing system (with positive spin‐offs of low delivery cost and simple logistics), is equitable (as it not only targets those who can afford it) and can have the added benefits of strengthening ANC service, delivery and use.
Diarrhoea and effects of different water sources, sanitation and hygiene behaviour in East Africa
Authors: Tumwine James K. , Thompson John , Katua‐Katua Munguti , Mujwajuzi Mark , Johnstone Nick , Wood Elizabeth , Porras Ina
Published: March 2003

Apart from Drawers of Water (DOW I) published in 1972, there have been only a handful of publishedstudies on domestic water use and environmental health in East Africa, based on direct observations or other reliable research methods. The objective of this study was to carry out a repeat analysis of domestic water use and environmental health in East Africa based on DOW I. The study was conducted in the same sites as DOW I. Field assistants spent at least 1 day in each household observing and conducting semi‐structured interviews. They measured the amount of water collected, recorded the amount of water used in the home, and noted household socio‐demographic characteristics, prevalence of diarrhoea, state and use of latrines, sources of water and conditions of use. We surveyed 1015 households in 33 sites in Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya in 1997. From 1967 to 1997, the prevalence of diarrhoea, in the week preceding the survey, increased from 6% to 18% in Kenya and from 16% to 21% in Uganda; it declined slightly in Tanzania (11–8%). Determinants of diarrhoea morbidity included poor hygiene (unsafe disposal of faeces and wastewater), education level of household head, obtaining water from surface sources or wells and per capita water used for cleaning. Hygiene practices are an important complement to improved water and sanitation in reducing diarrhoea morbidity.
A community randomized controlled trial to investigate impact of improved STD management and behavioural interventions on HIV incidence in rural Masaka, Uganda: trial design, methods and baseline findings
Authors: Kamali Anatoli , Kinsman John , Nalweyiso Norah , Mitchell Kirstin , Kanyesigye Edward , Kengeya‐Kayondo Jane F. , Carpenter Lucy M. , Nunn Andrew , Whitworth James A. G.
Published: March 2003

objective  To describe study design, methods and baseline findings of a behavioural intervention alone and in combination with improved management of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) aimed at reducing HIV incidence and other STDs.

design  A three‐arm community randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 18 rural communities (approximately 96 000 adults) in SW Uganda. A standardized behavioural intervention was implemented in 12 communities (arms A and B) through community‐based education, meetings and information leaflets. Six of these communities in addition received improved STD management through government and private health units (arm B). Arm C communities received routine government health services. Impact assessment was through three questionnaire and serological surveys of 750–1000 adults in each community at 18–24‐month intervals. The primary outcome measure was HIV incidence and secondary measures were syphilis and herpes simplex virus type 2 incidence, prevalence of Neisseria gonorrhoea and Chlamydia trachomatis and sexual behaviour changes.

results  Approximately 15 000 adults (72% of eligible population) were enrolled at baseline. HIV baseline prevalence rates were 9–10% in all arms and demographic and behavioural characteristics and STD prevalence were also similar. In intervention communities, there were 391 995 attendance at 81 502 activities (6.1 per target adult), 164 063 leaflets distributed (2.6 per person) and 1 586 270 condoms (16.5 condoms per adult). In the STD communities a total of 12 239 STD cases (65% women) were seen over a 5‐year period (7.7 per 100 adults/year).

conclusion  This is the first community RCT of its type with a behavioural component. There is fair baseline comparability between study arms and process data suggest that interventions were adequately implemented.
Efficacy and efficiency of new Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis and Bacillus sphaericus formulations against Afrotropical anophelines in Western Kenya
Authors: Fillinger Ulrike , Knols Bart G. J. , Becker Norbert
Published: March 2003

We evaluated the efficacy of new water‐dispersible granular (WDG) formulations of Bacillus thuringienis var. israelensis (Bti; VectoBac®) and B. sphaericus (Bs; VectoLex®, Valent BioScience Corp., Illinois, USA) for the control of larval Anopheles gambiae sensu lato Giles mosquitoes in a malaria‐endemic area around Lake Victoria, Western Kenya. WDG and powder formulations were compared in laboratory bioassays and followed by efficiency and residual effect assessments of both WDG formulations in open field experiments. LC50 and LC95 values for the Bti/Bs strains and their formulations show high susceptibility of A. gambiae sensu stricto under laboratory conditions. The larvae proved more susceptible to Bs than to Bti and the WDG formulations were slightly superior to the powder formulations. High efficiency was also shown in the open field trials, and a minimum dosage of 200 g/ha Bti WDG, representing the LC95 of the laboratory tests, was sufficient to fully suppress emergence of mosquitoes when applied at weekly intervals. Bti WDG did not show a residual effect, irrespective of the concentration applied. The Bs WDG formulation, however, showed significant larval reductions up to 11 days post‐treatment at application doses of either 1 or 5 kg/ha. We conclude that the main malaria vector in our study area is highly susceptible to these microbial control agents. Minimum effective dosages to achieve elimination of the larval population in a given habitat are extremely low and environmental impact is negligible. Microbial products for larval control have therefore great potential within Integrated Vector Management programmes and may augment control efforts against adult vector stages, such as the use of insecticide‐treated bednets, in many parts of Africa.
Photodynamic therapy response in cats with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma as a function of fluence
Authors: HAHN KEVIN A. , PANJEHPOUR MASOUD , LEGENDRE ALFRED M.
Published: March 2003

The response of advanced stage cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) following treatment with photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been poor. It was the aim of this pilot study to determine whether an increase in the delivered fluence (i.e. energy density) would improve the duration of tumour remission in cats with advanced‐stage SCC. Tumours were treated with aluminium phthalocyanine tetrasulphonate (AlPcS4) PDT at a fluence of either 100 J cm−2or 200 J cm−2and tumour response was evaluated at regular intervals. Those feline tumours treated with a fluence of 100 J cm−2(n= 8) had a significantly shorter median remission duration (69 days; range 0–619 days) than those feline tumours treated with 200 J cm−2(n= 6; 522 days; range 151–1057 days). It is our conclusion that a fluence of 200 J cm−2is well tolerated and more effective when treating cats with advanced stage cutaneous SCC.
Dermatophytosis due toMicrosporum persicolor(13 cases) orMicrosporum gypseum(20 cases) in dogs
Authors: Carlotti  , Bensignor
Published: March 2003

A retrospective study of 20 cases of dermatophytosis due toMicrosporum gypseumand 13 cases due toMicrosporum persicolorseen over an 8‐year period is reported. These skin diseases are rare (1.3% of our canine case load) and pleomorphic, from localized erythematous and squamous or suppurative lesions (kerions) to extensive or generalized erythematous, alopecic, scaling, crusting and eventually papular and pustular dermatoses. Such dermatophytoses are diagnosed by fungal culture, and in some instances rapidly by dermatohistopathology with periodic acid‐Schiff staining (3/3 cases ofMicrosporum gypseuminfection and 5/7 cases ofMicrosporum persicolorinfection). Therapy with topical and/or systemic azole derivatives (topical enilconazole, miconazole, econazole and systemic ketoconazole, respectively) was successful in all cases, with only two relapses, which were easily controlled.
A dermoid sinus in a Siberian Husky
Authors: Cornegliani  , Ghibaudo
Published: March 2003

The aim of this paper is to report a case of dermoid sinus in a Siberian Husky dog. Skin lesions were characterized by dual fistulae in the dorsal thoracic region. Surgical dissection revealed cysts (full of debris, hair and purulent exudate) connected by a fibrous cord to the first and the second thoracic vertebrae.
Dermatitis associated with microfilariae (Filarioidea) in 10 dogs
Authors: Hargis  , Lewis  , Duclos  , Loeffler  , Rausch
Published: March 2003

Dermatitis associated with microfilariae of a nematode of the superfamily Filarioidea was diagnosed in 10 dogs from the western United States. Clinically, lesions were single or multiple papules and plaques with alopecia, scarring, erythema, ulceration, or crusting. Eight dogs had lesional pruritus. Microscopically, there was perivascular, periglandular, to interstitial inflammation, with many eosinophils and/or plasma cells, and scarring affecting the dermis and subcutis. Microgranulomas containing microfilaria were seen in six dogs. Microfilariae were noted in microgranulomas or free in the dermis or subcutis, but not in vessels. In one case, an adult female nematode emerged from a biopsy sample that was placed in physiologic saline. Study of this nematode revealed that it was a filarioid of the family Onchocercidae; it was identified asAcanthocheilonemasp. (syn:Dipetalonema). Antigen tests of five dogs were negative forDirofilaria immitis. The Knott tests and/or filter tests of nine dogs were negative for microfilariae. An indirect fluorescence antibody test of one dog was also negative forD. immitis. One dog was not evaluated for microfilariae.
Macrolides and lincosamides
Authors: Noli C. , Boothe D.
Published: March 2003

Macrolides and lincosamides are first choice bacteriostatic antibiotics used in veterinary dermatology. The main antibiotics in these classes are erythromycin, lincomycin, clindamycin and tylosin. They are well absorbed if given orally and are able to penetrate well into infected skin. Their spectrum of action comprises bacteria commonly associated with skin infections, including staphylococci. Their main disadvantages are the rapid development of bacterial resistance and occasional gastroenteric upset, most often seen with erythromycin. More recently developed macrolides, such as azithromycin and clarithomycin, are bactericidal, have a larger spectrum of action, a longer endurance, less resistance and may be given once a day instead of two or three times daily.
TNF‐α dependent NF‐κB activation in cultured canine keratinocytes is partly mediated by reactive oxygen species
Authors: KÖhler H.B.K. , Huchzermeyer B. , Martin M. , De Bruin A. , Meier B. , Nolte I.
Published: March 2003

The cytokine TNF‐α plays a major role in inflammatory and immunological reactions of canine skin. With respect to a possible therapeutic modulation, we investigated the role of the transcription factor NF‐κB and the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the TNF‐α signalling pathway in cultured canine keratinocytes. TNF‐α treatment resulted in activation of NF‐κB which was partially inhibited by the antioxidant α‐lipoic acid. Using the cytochrome c reduction test no superoxide production could be detected in the supernatant of TNF‐α stimulated keratinocytes. However, TNF‐α dependent intracellular hydrogen peroxide production was demonstrated spectroscopically. With electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) significant hydrogen peroxide formation was detected in the mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum, the cytosol and partially on the plasma membrane of the keratinocytes. Hence, ROS possibly play an important role in the TNF‐α signalling pathway leading to NF‐κB activation in canine skin. An adjunctive therapy with natural potent antioxidants modulating NF‐κB overactivation in canine cutaneous inflammation may be of therapeutic benefit.
Erodium cicutarium density and duration of interference effects on yield of wheat, oilseed rape, pea and dry bean
Authors: BLACKSHAW  , HARKER
Published: March 2003

Field studies were conducted to determine the effect of various densities and duration of interference of Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Her. ex Ait. on the yield of wheat, oilseed rape, pea and dry bean. The magnitude of yield reductions caused by E. cicutarium differed among the crops. Results indicate that the ranking of crop tolerance to E. cicutarium, when established at their recommended planting densities, was wheat > oilseed rape > pea ≃ dry bean. Maximum yield reduction occurred at E. cicutarium densities of 100–200 plants m−2 and were 36% for wheat, 37% for oilseed rape, 82% for dry bean and 92% for pea. Crop yield progressively decreased as the duration of E. cicutarium interference increased. Three weeks of E. cicutarium interference after emergence was sufficient to reduce the yield of all crops, indicating the importance of controlling this weed early in the growing season. The mean yield reduction for each week of E. cicutarium interference was 1·6%, 2·7%, 3·6% and 6·3% for wheat, oilseed rape, pea and dry bean respectively. E. cicutarium is therefore a weed that warrants consideration for control in annual cropping systems.
Prediction of yield loss caused by Orobanche spp. in carrot and pea crops based on the soil seedbank
Authors: BERNHARD  , JENSEN  , ANDREASEN
Published: March 2003

Root parasites of the genus Orobanche cause serious losses in many subtropical crops. Direct control options are very limited and crop yield loss can reach 100%. Prediction of potential damage in a crop before sowing or planting would support farmers in their choice of crop. This paper discusses the relationship between the number of Orobanche spp. seeds in the field and yield loss in peas (Pisum sativum L.) and carrots (Daucus carota L.) in Israel. Yield loss due to Orobanche crenata Forsk. in peas was 100% at high infestations, whereas in carrots when O. crenata and O. aegyptiaca were present it stabilized at about 50% for moderate infestations of 200 seeds per kg of soil. Statistical analyses related the yield loss from parasitism in peas and carrots to the numbers of Orobanche seeds remaining in the soil. A rectangular hyperbolic model, previously applied to competition data, fitted the data well. Confidence intervals for per cent yield loss were calculated using the bootstrap method. The practical applications of these models in predicting yield loss are discussed.
The effect of thermal time and soil water on emergence of Ranunculus repens
Authors: HARRIS  , DOOHAN  , GORDON  , JENSEN
Published: March 2003

The effect of temperature and soil available water (AW) on the emergence of Ranunculus repens␣L. was examined in artificial media in growth chambers. Two seed populations, `arable type' and `wild type', were investigated. Moisture levels were 20%, 40%, 60% and 80% AW, and temperatures were 10/5 °C, 15/7 °C, 20/10 °C and 25/15 °C. Time to onset of emergence varied from 11 to 28 days for both seed populations, primarily as a result of mean temperature. Mean thermal time (TT) required for the onset of emergence of both populations was 251 ± 45 TT. Total emergence of the `arable type' R. repens varied from 3% at 10/5 °C and 20% AW to 30% at 25/15 °C and 60% AW. Total emergence of the `wild type' was greater, ranging from 4% at 10/5 °C and 20% AW to 57% at 25/15 °C and 80% AW. Temperature and AW significantly affected total emergence. A logistic response was displayed for the cumulative emergence of both populations. Seedling emergence models based on TT were developed for both populations at each of the four levels of AW.
Validation of a weed:crop competition model
Authors: Vitta J I , Satorre E H
Published: March 2003

A model of crop:weed competition, based on parameters from the logistic biomass growth of both crop and weeds in monocultures, was validated under several sets of conditions. Model inputs were (i) dry matter per unit area at 50% of seedling emergence (Bi) for each species; (ii) maximum total biomass of each species in monocultures (K ); (iii) intrinsic growth rate of each species in monocultures (r); (iv) the accumulated thermal time required for each species to reach 50% emergence; and (v) the total accumulated thermal time during the growing season considered in the simulation. The model adequately described the dynamics of the competition between species when the relative yield total of the mixture was close to one, i.e. the slope and intercept of the regression between observed and simulated values was not significantly different from one and zero respectively. Sensitivity analysis indicated that final crop biomass was particularly affected by changes in the relative growth rate of the species. The occurrence of a critical period for weed control was explored using the model. The simplicity of the model validated here would allow its use as a tool to predict the outcome of competition and species relative importance, particularly when parameters needed to run more complex models are not available.
Mating system in Hirschfeldia incana and hybridization to oilseed rape
Authors: Darmency  , Fleury
Published: March 2003

Concerns have been raised about the possibility of sexual transfer of herbicide resistance genes from transgenic crops towards weedy relatives. The average rate of spontaneous hybridization between Hirschfeldia incana (L.) Lagrèze‐Fossat and oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) was 0.6 hybrids per plant over 3 years of field experiments using herbicide‐resistant oilseed rape as a pollen donor. Self‐incompatibility was shown to be the mating system of most individuals within a population of H. incana, although some plants had some ability to self‐fertilize, which could mitigate gene flow. Back‐crossing interspecific hybrids to H. incana over five generations showed that introgression was not successful in our experiment.
A comparative study on Striga hermonthica interaction with a sensitive and a tolerant sorghum cultivar
Authors: Van Ast A , Bastiaans L , Kropff M J
Published: March 2003

In this study, the effects of Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth. on a sensitive and a tolerant sorghum genotype were investigated, and the underlying tolerance mechanisms were distinguished. The sensitive sorghum cv. CK60‐B and the tolerant sorghum landrace Tiemarifing were grown in pots with and without seed infestation. Both sorghum genotypes responded to infection by the parasite, but it was evident that CK60‐B was more strongly affected than Tiemarifing. Sorghum plant height, final leaf number, green leaf area, kernel yield, number of kernels and 1000‐kernel weight were significantly reduced by infection, which also had a marked effect on the phenological development of CK60‐B; the majority of the plants remained vegetative and, in the remaining plants, flowering was delayed by about 2 weeks. No effect on the phenological development of Tiemarifing was observed. The tolerant landrace showed significantly lower and delayed emergence of S. hermonthica than the sensitive cultivar, and this could be explained by a delay in the onset of attachment. Significantly higher numbers of reproductive parasitic plants were found in the pots with the sensitive sorghum plants. It is concluded that differences in root architecture and the resulting early infection and higher S. hermonthica numbers are partly responsible for the stronger effects of the parasite on the sensitive cultivar.
Modelling different cultivation and herbicide strategies for their effect on herbicide resistance in Alopecurus myosuroides
Authors: Cavan G , Cussans J , Moss S R
Published: March 2003

A single dominant mutation conferring resistance to aryloxyphenoxypropionate (AOPP) and cyclohexanedione (CHD) herbicides was incorporated into a quantitative model for the population development of Alopecurus myosuroides Huds. The model predicts that from an initial seedbank of 100 seed m–2, 10–6 of which mutate to resistance each generation, and annual use of AOPP/CHD herbicides which kill 90% of susceptible but no resistant plants, a threshold of 10 plants m–2 surviving herbicides (‘field resistance’) will develop: in 9–10 years if all tillage is by tine cultivation to 10 cm deep; after 28–30 years of annual ploughing; in 12 years if tine cultivations are interspersed with ploughing once every 4 years. If AOPP/CHD herbicides are alternated with herbicides with different modes of action, outcomes depend on the annual kill rate: with 95% kill (of susceptible plants by AOPP/CHDs and all plants by alternative herbicides) and tine cultivation, field resistance develops in 22 years; however, resistance can be delayed for 45 years if AOPP/CHDs are rotated with two additional herbicides, each with a different mode of action. The model predictions on the number of years required for field resistance to develop are not highly sensitive to the density of the seedbank or the initial frequency of resistance.
Canopy development ofChenopodium albumin pure and mixed stands
Authors: Röhrig M , Stützel H
Published: March 2003

A model was developed to quantify the canopy development ofChenopodium albumL. in response to crowding. In field experiments,C. albumwas planted at two densities in pure and mixed stands with either cauliflower (Brassica oleraceaL. convar.botrytisvar.botrytis) or faba beans (Vicia fabaL.), yielding data on plant height, maximum diameter and leaf area. Plant heights ofC. albumdiffered significantly between pure stands and mixed plots with an early cauliflower crop. Effects in a summer cauliflower planting were not as marked. Faba beans suppressedC. album, which was unable to overgrow the crop. Assumed to be mainly responsible for plant height modulation due to crowding, the leaf area index around elongating internodes was estimated. In the model, this estimate was related to the stem elongation rate yielding an accurate prediction of potential plant height growth. Because this potential was not realized under low light conditions, a feedback of assimilate shortage on height growth was introduced. Plant diameter was adequately simulated when based on plant density. As the vertical leaf area distribution did not change, it is concluded that leaf area ofC. albumcan be predicted at every point in time and space from a given total leaf area and plant density. This information is useful in models of light competition to improve the description of weed competition effects.
The impact of uprooting and soil‐covering on the effectiveness of weed harrowing
Authors: Kurstjens D A G , Kropff M J
Published: March 2003

The impact of uprooting and covering plants on mortality and growth reduction was investigated in the laboratory using Lolium perenne L. and Lepidium sativum L. (harrowed 3–4 days after emergence) and Chenopodium quinoa Willd. (harrowed at emergence) as model weed species. Although the predominant initial effect of harrowing was to cover the plants, only 1–17% of the non‐uprooted covered plants were killed because the depth at which they were buried by the harrow was shallow. Uprooting was more effective (47–61% mortality) but strongly dependent on soil moisture content. It accounted for 93 and 95% of L. sativum and C. quinoa mortality, but for only 60% of L. perenne mortality. In L. perenne, the species most sensitive to burying, a strong positive relationship was observed between the percentage of plants covered by harrowing and the fresh weight reduction of the total population 6 days after harrowing. The fresh weight reduction of the total L. sativum population was best related to the percentage of uprooted plants, but the percentage of covered plants also appeared to be a good predictor because of its correlation with uprooting. Most of the uprooted plants were also buried. The fresh weight reduction of the total C. quinoa population was not related to the covering effect of harrowing and only weakly related to the percentage of uprooted plants. The results indicate that the plant recovery process after harrowing needs further study and that field research methods should be refined so that they can better discern initial and final harrowing effects on weeds.
Spatial correlation between weed species densities and soil properties
Authors: WALTER A M , CHRISTENSEN S , SIMMELSGAARD S E
Published: March 2003

The spatial cross‐correlation between weed species densities and six soil properties within fields was analysed using cross‐semivariograms. The survey was carried out in three successive years in two fields. The most consistent relationship between weed species density (numbers m−2) and soil properties was negative cross‐correlation between the density of Viola arvensis Murray and clay content. This correlation was found in both fields; however, the range of spatial dependence varied between fields. In one of the fields, the density of Lamium purpureum L. was positively cross‐correlated with the phosphorus content in the soil in all years. The density of Veronica spp. and Poa annua L. was negatively cross‐correlated with pH in all three years. Other spatial cross‐correlations that were found in this study were inconsistent over time or field site. The densities of some of the weed species were spatially cross‐correlated with more than one soil property. The results showed that the range of spatial dependence varied not only between fields, but also between weed species and soil properties, as well as between years. This study indicates that the weed pattern is field‐specific and that the spatial variation in soil properties within a field is one of several factors affecting weed patchiness.
Genetic diversity in Echinochloa spp. collected from different geographic origins and within rice fields in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Danquah E Y , Johnson D E , Riches C , Arnold G M , Karp A
Published: March 2003

Summary Diversity studies of Echinochloa spp. are complicated by problems in taxonomy and species identification, caused by the existence of morphologically intergrading types. Six amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) primer combinations and five microsatellites were used to assess variation in 24 samples morphologically identified as E. crus‐galli, E. colona and E. crus‐pavonis, from Bangladesh, India, Colombia, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire and Philippines. Out of 909 AFLP bands generated, 775 were polymorphic. Genotype diversity for the microsatellites ranged from 0.28 to 0.72. Similarity matrices were calculated using Jaccard coefficient, and input into cluster and principal coordinates analyses. AFLP and microsatellite results were highly correlated. Echinochloa crus‐pavonis and E. crus‐galli were intermixed, consistent with the view that E. crus‐galli occurs as numerous intergrading races in the four countries (Bangladesh, India, Côte d'Ivoire and Philippines). The E. colona samples clustered as a distinct group. In 15 samples of E. crus‐pavonis collected from rice fields in a valley in Côte d'Ivoire (over a 2‐km distance), four different genotypes were found in a 4 m × 4 m area. These results suggest that AFLPs and SSRs may be useful not only for discriminating genotypes and studying population structure but also for helping to resolve taxonomic relationships in Echinochloa spp.
Epidemiologic observations on the natural course of pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Kyriakis MD Kyriakos P. , Tosca MD Androniki D.
Published: March 2003

BackgroundDuring the last 20 years, few prospective studies on the natural course of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) have been performed.

MethodsVarious correlations of disease duration, clinical activity fluctuations, serology, and coexistence with other disease states were analyzed with regard to their impact upon the natural history of pemphigus. Thirty‐seven consecutive PV patients were involved in this 1‐year retrospective follow‐up study.

ResultsThe disease activity decreases with time, but when exacerbated it is of unpredictable intensity; skin involvement is equally distributed between the sexes; relapses occur mostly during the first 2 years after disease onset, and can be marginally predicted by autoantibody titers.

ConclusionsNotice should be taken of the relative frequencies of PV associated with neoplasia, ionizing radiation, and familial occurrence.
Skin diseases in Bamako (Mali)
Authors: Mahé Antoine , Cissé Idrissa Ah.. , Faye Ousmane , N′Diaye Hawa Thiam , Niamba Pascal
Published: March 2003

Background Skin diseases have only recently been considered as a possible public health problem in developing countries. Data supporting this matter are scarce. The aim of this study is to report the experience of a specialized dermatologic center in Bamako (Mali) in order to complete two previous studies conducted in the Bamako area: a prevalence study in the general population and a study in nonspecialized health centers of Bamako. It is our intention to provide a comprehensive picture of the problem of skin diseases in an African developing country.

Methods We retrospectively collected all cases of skin diseases diagnosed during consultations provided at the Institut Marchoux in Bamako, the only center specializing in dermatology in Mali, during the year 1993.

Results A total of 10,575 new outpatients were seen with 10,889 skin diseases. The main skin diseases registered were as follows: infectious dermatoses (41% of all diagnoses, including scabies (16.6%), superficial mycoses (13.6%), and primary pyoderma (5.6%)), dermatitis (20.4%), papular urticaria (4.4%), acne (4.2%), pityriasis alba (3.6%), keratoderma (3.6%), and urticaria (3%). Typical tropical infectious diseases accounted for only 1% of all diagnoses.

Conclusions It appears that certain skin diseases (mainly scabies and pyoderma) are an important health problem for the population of the Bamako area. Public health policies should be implemented in order to manage this problem rationally.
Quantitative estimation and recommendations for supplementation of protein lost through scaling in exfoliative dermatitis
Authors: Kanthraj Garehatty R.. , Srinivas Chakravarthy R.. , Devi Pathirisseri Uma , Ganasoundari Adikesavan , Shenoi Shrutakirthi D. , Deshmukh Ravindra P. , Suresh Ben Jan , Pai Satish B.
Published: March 2003

Background Exfoliative dermatitis (ED) can result in protein loss due to scaling causing a negative nitrogen balance. Freedberg and Baden (J Invest Dermatol 1962; 38:

277–284) estimated the amount of scale lost in ED by collecting it in an occlusive suit. Subsequently, the nitrogen content was determined by the Kjeldahl method. The exact amount of protein supplementation in ED, dependent on scale loss, is not well established. As occlusion and hyperthermia caused by the suit can inhibit scaling, the objectives of the present study were to design an alternative method to measure the amount of scale lost, to estimate the protein content of the scale, and to propose suitable recommendations for protein supplementation.

Methods In 40 patients with ED, the total protein content lost through scaling per day (P) was determined by the following equation: P = T×I×Y×X/25×104 g, where T is the total body surface area in square meters, I is the percentage area involved in scaling, estimated using computer‐aided design (CAD graph), Y is the amount of scale lost per unit area (0.0025 m2 ) in milligrams, and X is the quantity of protein present in 1 g of scale in milligrams estimated by a spectrophotometer.

Results It was observed that patients with ED secondary to drug reactions, eczema, and psoriasis lost 7.2, 9.6, and 22.6 g of scale with a protein content of 4.2, 5.6, and 12.8 g respectively. The difference in the amount of protein lost in ED secondary to drug reactions and eczema was not statistically significant; however, the protein lost in psoriasis was significant (p < 0.01 to p < 0.05).

Conclusions ED may increase the daily protein loss by approximately 25–30% in psoriasis and 10–15% in other causes. Standard treatment for ED and protein supplementation based on our recommendations can minimize the adverse effects of a negative nitrogen balance.
Acne neonatorum: a study of 22 cases
Authors: Katsambas Andreas D.. , Katoulis Alexander C.. , Stavropoulos Panayiotis
Published: March 2003

Background Acne is not uncommon in the neonatal period. Acne neonatorum is characterized by a mainly facial eruption of inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions. It is most commonly mild and transient. Hyperactivity of sebaceous glands, stimulated by neonatal androgens, has been implicated as the underlying pathogenetic mechanism.

Materials and methods All patients diagnosed with acne neonatorum in “A. Sygros” Hospital, Athens, Greece, during the years 1993–1996, were evaluated clinically and epidemiologically. Histologic examination and smears for Propionibacterium acnes and Pityrosporum ovale were performed in selected cases.

Results Of the 22 patients studied, 18 were male (81.8%) and 4 were female. The mean age at onset was 3 weeks and the mean duration of the disease was 4 months. Papules and pustules were the most frequent types of lesions (72.7%), followed by comedones only (22.7%). The cheeks were the most common site of predilection (81.8%). A family history of acne was reported in only three patients. Histologic examination showed hyperplastic sebaceous glands with keratin‐plugged orifices. Smears for P. ovale were negative.

Conclusions Our findings are consistent with previous experience, although inflammatory lesions were encountered more often than previously reported. Hereditary factors did not seem to play a significant role in our series. Topical treatment hastened the resolution of this self‐limited condition. Recalcitrant cases warrant investigation for underlying androgen excess.
Milia en plaque: a new site
Authors: Alsaleh Qasem A. , Nanda Arti , Sharaf Amr , Al‐Sabah Humood
Published: March 2003

A 35‐year‐old Kuwaiti field worker presented with a history of an asymptomatic, erythematous plaque on the right side of the nasal bridge. It soon extended to the malar area, being studded with multiple yellowish papules ( Fig. 1). He denied any history of photosensitivity, drug intake, local trauma, topical applications, or ionizing radiations to that area. Examination revealed an erythematous, 1.5 × 3 cm plaque on the right nasal fold, extending to the malar area, overlain by a group of tiny yellowish papules (15–20 in number). He also had a few discrete milia on the right cheek. The histology ( Fig. 2) revealed multiple keratin‐filled cysts, surrounded by a dense lymphocytic infiltrate, findings consistent with milia; 0.05% tretinoin was prescribed twice daily for 1 month without improvement; minocycline, 100 mg daily, was then employed, and at 1 month of follow‐up there was a significant decrease in erythema and milia count.
Cost‐effective post‐exposure prevention of poison ivy dermatitis
Authors: Stibich Adam S. , Yagan Mark , Sharma Vidya , Herndon Betty , Montgomery Christopher
Published: March 2003

Background Poison ivy (toxicodendron) dermatitis is the most common allergic contact dermatitis in the USA. No studies have shown an effect of washing after a short period of time for the prevention of binding of urushiol to the skin.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of three different modes of postcontact prevention using a surfactant (Dial® ultra dishwashing soap), an oil‐removing compound (Goop®), and chemical inactivation (a commercial product Tecnu®).

Methods A consented, unsponsored, volunteer experimental study on medical students from the University of Missouri School of Medicine, Kansas City. Each subject served as his/her own control, comparing four 2.5‐cm exposed squares on the inner aspect of the forearm, three of which were treated and one untreated.

Results Comparisons between the different agents were nonsignificant with P > 0.05. Each treatment, however, was significantly improved over the untreated control.

Conclusions Our study showed 70%, 61.8%, and 56.4% protection with Tecnu, Goop, and Dial, respectively, when compared to the positive control, or to the possible maximum response, with a cost per ounce (in a local drug and automotive store) of $1.25, $0.07, and $0.07, respectively, for a decrease in protection that is nonsignificant.
The effect of skin diseases on quality of life in patients from different social and ethnic groups in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Jobanputra Raj , Bachmann Max
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background  Skin diseases can greatly affect the quality of life (QoL). Little is known, however, of their impact on QoL in the developing world. This study was designed to assess the effect of skin diseases in such a setting.

Methods  A questionnaire survey of patients using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), modified to the cultural needs of the population. The adapted instrument was translated into Afrikaans and Xhosa. Six hundred and seven patients attending general dermatology clinics at Groote Schuur Hospital and 53 controls were recruited. Influences on QoL of clinical severity, employment, education, age, sex, and home language were examined.

Results  Participants included 313 (52%) English‐speaking, 215 (35%) Afrikaans‐speaking, and 79 (13%) Xhosa‐speaking dermatology patients. Independent risk factors for having a high disability score were dermatologists' assessment of severity, younger age, unemployment, and language (odds ratio, 0.13; 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.03–0.5 for Xhosa speakers compared to Afrikaans speakers). Gender was not associated with a high score, but females were more likely to report effects of skin disease on self‐esteem, clothing choice, treatment problems, and anxiety.

Conclusions  In this multicultural setting, social class and language group, but not gender, influenced the impact of skin disease on overall QoL. Xhosa speakers were apparently less affected than other patients. This could be due to cultural differences in the experience of skin disease and in the perception of disability, or to biases in questionnaire responses. Anxiety and depression were relevant dimensions of QoL in this study and should be considered for inclusion in future research. The adapted and translated DLQI was valid and reliable.
Biweekly serial glycolic acid peels vs. long‐term daily use of topical low‐strength glycolic acid in the treatment of atrophic acne scars
Authors: Erbağcı Zülal , Akçalı Cenk
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background  and objective Treatment of atrophic acne scars is difficult and generally unsatisfactory. Although many clinical studies have been performed to investigate the efficacy of glycolic acid in the treatment of acne vulgaris, to the best of our knowledge no placebo‐controlled study has been carried out to ascertain the effect of glycolic acid on atrophic postacne scars.

Design  A single, blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized comparative clinical study was conducted in 58 women with atrophic acne scars. The subjects were randomly divided into three study groups. Glycolic acid peels with 20%, 35%, 50%, and 70% concentrations were applied serially at 2‐week intervals to 23 patients in Group A. Twenty patients in Group B used a 15% glycolic acid cream once or twice daily for a period of 24 weeks. The remaining 15 patients in Group C applied a placebo cream twice daily during the same period.

Results  The differences between the results in the different groups were statistically significant at week 24 (P < 0.001). Home application of low‐strength glycolic acid was better tolerated and had less side‐effects than glycolic acid peels; however, repeated short‐contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results compared with the maintenance regimen (P < 0.05), and apparently good responses were observed only in the peel group (P < 0.01).

Conclusions  Glycolic acid peeling is an effective modality for the treatment of atrophic acne scars, but repetitive peels (at least six times) with 70% concentration are necessary to obtain evident improvement. Long‐term daily use of low‐strength products may also have some useful effects on scars and may be recommended for patients who cannot tolerate the peeling procedure.
Irritant contact dermatitis secondary to fiberglass: an unusual presentation
Authors: Chen Joy Y. ,   BA, Phillips Rhea , Lewis Alan T. , Quan Long T. , Hsu Sylvia
Published: March 2003

37‐year‐old white man presented with a 4‐day history of an intensely pruritic eruption on both forearms. The symptoms began immediately after crawling over fiberglass insulation in his attic. The patient had been wearing long pants and a short‐sleeved shirt, exposing his forearms to the insulation. By the third day, pustules had begun to form on both arms. Physical examination revealed multiple erythematous pustules on both forearms Scrapings from a pustule dissolved in 10% potassium hydroxide revealed numerous rectangular refractile crystals which were easily visualized under polarized light ( Fig. 2). A Gram stain of a pustule revealed numerous neutrophils and Gram‐positive cocci in clusters. The patient was diagnosed with fiberglass dermatitis with secondary infection and was treated with a 14‐day course of cephalexin, 250 mg per os four times a day.

Refractile crystal under polarized light

image
Epidemiology of vitiligo in the French West Indies (Isle of Martinique)
Authors: Boisseau‐Garsaud Anne‐Marie , Garsaud Philippe , Calès‐Quist Danielle , Hélénon Raymond , Quénéhervé Catherine , Claire Romule Charles Sainte
Published: March 2003

Background The frequency of vitiligo in white populations has been generally estimated to be about 0.5–1%. The same prevalence is expected in black populations, despite the few investigations reported. No studies have been performed in black populations living in the Caribbean Islands. Therefore, our purpose was to report an epidemiologic study of vitiligo in the French West Indies (Isle of Martinique).

Methods We performed a prospective study between October 1995 and March 1996; 2077 outpatients of the Department of Dermatology at the Fort de France University Hospital were examined to detect vitiligo. Concurrently, 32 patients (23 women and nine men), presenting with vitiligo, were questioned about their family history, personal diseases, age, and circumstances of vitiligo occurrence.

Results Vitiligo was found in seven patients (five women and two men) out of 2077. The prevalence in the studied population was 0.34%. Of the 32 patients with vitiligo who were investigated, 11 (34%) had a family history of vitiligo, two (6%) suffered from thyroid disease, two (6%) from psoriasis, and one (3%) from atopic dermatitis. The median age at vitiligo onset was 29 years.

Conclusions Despite the bias due to the recruitment of patients in the Dermatology Department, this study demonstrates a prevalence in a black population comparable, or slightly inferior, to the currently accepted data in white people. Our results concerning the age of onset and pathologic associations showed no difference with the literature data related to white populations.
The Spanish version of Skindex‐29
Authors: Jones‐Caballero María , Peñas Pablo F. , García‐Díez Amaro , Badía Xavier , Chren Mary Margaret
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background  Most currently available dermatologic quality‐of‐life measures were originally created in English, and must be translated and adapted for use in other cultures. Our purpose was to translate and adapt culturally into Spanish a skin‐related quality‐of‐life measure, Skindex‐29, and to begin preliminary assessments of its reliability and validity.

Methods  Transcultural adaptation and cross‐sectional questionnaire studies were performed. One hundred and fourteen adult persons (patients and healthy people) responded to the Spanish version of Skindex‐29. Evaluations of the semantic equivalence of back‐translated items, reliability, construct validity, and content validity of the Spanish version were the main outcome measures. Comparison between Spanish and American responses was also performed.

Results  Six problematic items required a second translation and back‐translation to achieve satisfactory agreement with the original instrument. The final Spanish version of Skindex‐29 was internally reliable (range of Cronbach α for the scales, 0.70–0.87). The instrument demonstrated both construct and content validity. As hypothesized, scores for dermatologic patients were higher than those for healthy persons (mean global scores 21 vs. 5, P < 0.01) and scores for patients with inflammatory diseases were higher than those for persons with isolated skin lesions (mean global scores 32 vs. 11, P < 0.01), indicating a poorer quality of life. In addition, most patients' responses to an open‐ended question about their skin disease were addressed by items in the instrument. Skindex scale scores of American and Spanish respondents were similar.

Conclusions  We have developed a semantically equivalent translation of Skindex‐29 into Spanish. Our preliminary evaluation of its measurement properties suggests that it is a reliable and valid measure of the effects of skin disease on the quality of life in Spanish patients.