bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chloroquine is not a risk factor for seizures in childhood cerebral malaria
Authors: Crawley Jane , Kokwaro Gilbert , Ouma David , Watkins William , Marsh Kevin
Published: March 2003

Summary objectives  There are a number of case reports in the medical literature suggesting an association between the ingestion of chloroquine and subsequent seizure activity. Our study was designed to investigate the relationship between blood levels of chloroquine (CQ), its metabolite desethylchloroquine (DCQ), and seizures in children admitted to hospital with cerebral malaria.

methods  Serial blood levels of CQ and DCQ were measured over the first 24 h of hospital admission in children with cerebral malaria. The number and duration of all seizures was recorded, and statistical analysis subsequently performed to determine the relationship between seizure activity and blood concentrations of CQ and DCQ.

results  Chloroquine was detected in 92% (100/109) of admission blood samples. 54% (59/109) of the patients had one or more seizures after admission, while 8% (9/109) had an episode of status epilepticus. Median (interquartile range) baseline concentrations of CQ and DCQ were, respectively, 169.4 μg/ml (75.1–374.9) and 352.3 μg/ml (81.9–580.1) for those children who had seizures after admission, compared to CQ 227.5 μg/ml (79.4–430.2) and DCQ 364.0 μg/ml (131.3–709.4) for those who did not have seizures (P > 0.5 for all comparisons). Baseline concentrations of CQ and DCQ were not significantly associated with the occurrence of seizures lasting for 5 min or more. The nine children who had an episode of status epilepticus had significantly lower median admission levels of CQ than those without status epilepticus: 75.1 μg/l (7.4–116.5) vs. 227.5 μg/l (85.6–441.2), P = 0.02. Multivariate logistic regression analysis, taking into account factors likely to affect the risk of seizures in hospital, failed to change the significance of these results.

conclusions  These findings suggest that chloroquine does not play an important role in the aetiology of seizures in childhood cerebral malaria.
Elimination of bancroftian filariasis (Wuchereria bancrofti) in Santa Catarina state, Brazil
Authors: Schlemper B. R. , Steindel M. , Grisard E. C. , Carvalho‐Pinto C. J. , Bernardini O. J. , de Castilho C. V. , Rosa G. , Kilian S. , Guarneri A. A. , Rocha A. , Medeiros Z. , Ferreira Neto J. A.
Published: March 2003

Summary During the 1950s, three foci of Wuchereria bancrofti transmission were identified in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil. In Florianópolis, São José da Ponta Grossa and Barra da Laguna community treatment of bancroftian filariasis with diethylcarbamazine (DEC) was performed using two distinct approaches, without vector control or improvements in sanitation. In two of the three communities only microfilaraemic individuals were treated, while in Barra da Laguna the entire population received DEC treatment regardless of their infection status. In both cases, transmission of the parasite was blocked and no new cases were detected in all localities for up to 10 years. Recently, a new survey in São José da Ponta Grossa and Barra communities revealed no microfilaria‐positive individuals, including residents that were positive in the 1950s. These data confirm that transmission of W. bancrofti was interrupted in Santa Catarina, and mass treatment appears to be more effective than treatment of microfilaraemic individuals only.
Brain damage after neonatal tetanus in a rural Kenyan hospital
Authors: Barlow J. L. , Mung'Ala‐Odera V. , Gona J. , Newton C. R. J. C.
Published: March 2003

OBJECTIVE Neonatal tetanus (NNT) is an important cause of mortality in resource poor countries, particularly sub‐Saharan Africa. There are no reports of the long‐term outcome of children who survive NNT in African hospitals.

DESIGN In a retrospective study of children discharged from Kilifi District Hospital (KDH), Kenya with NNT, each child was linked with a comparative child (CC) in the community matched for age, sex and locality.

PARTICIPANTS A total of 123 patients were admitted with NNT between 1992 and 1996, of whom 68% died. Twenty‐three (59%) of the 39 survivors were traced in the community, 10 had moved away, six had died.

OUTCOME MEASURES NNT survivors underwent a neurological and developmental examination and a questionnaire was administered to the parents about the behaviour of the child. A verbal autopsy was used to determine the cause of death in children who had died after discharge.

RESULTS The head circumference of NNT survivors was significantly smaller than that of CC (P=0.037); eight children had microcephaly compared with one CC (P=0.011). NNT survivors had more problems with hand–eye co‐ordination tasks (P=0.035), a lower summated developmental score (P=0.023) and more mild neurological abnormalities (P=0.008) than CC. Parents of NNT survivors reported more behavioural problems (P=0.02) than parents of CC.

CONCLUSIONS Children who survive NNT have evidence of brain damage that manifests as microcephaly, mild neurological abnormalities, developmental impairment – particularly fine motor difficulties – and behaviour problems.
Socio‐economic, gender and health services factors affecting diagnostic delay for tuberculosis patients in urban Zambia
Authors: Needham Dale M. , Foster Susan D. , Tomlinson George , Godfrey‐Faussett Peter
Published: March 2003

In‐depth interviews regarding health seeking behaviour were conducted with 202 adults registered with pulmonary tuberculosis at the centralized Chest Clinic in Lusaka, Zambia. The median (mean) diagnostic delay was 8.6 (9) weeks, and was significantly associated with the following factors: female sex, lower education, more than six instances of health‐seeking encounters, outpatient diagnosis of tuberculosis, and visiting a private doctor or traditional healer. More effective tuberculosis control interventions require novel methods of accessing women and less educated people. Decentralization of public tuberculosis care and improved integration with private sector health providers may also reduce diagnostic delay.
PCR‐based ELISA technique for malaria diagnosis of specimens from Thailand
Authors: Laoboonchai Anintita , Kawamoto Fumihiko , Thanoosingha Nichapat , Kojima Somei , Scott Miller R. R. , Kain Kevin C. , Wongsrichanalai Chansuda
Published: March 2003

We performed a field evaluation of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based enzyme‐linked immuno‐sorbent assays (ELISA) for the diagnosis of malaria. A commercially available PCR–ELISA microplate hybridization (MPH) assay was used. Blood specimens were collected from 300 volunteers seeking care at malaria clinics in Thailand. Examination of 200 high power fields by Giemsa‐stained thick and thin smear (GTTS) revealed 51 P. falciparum (Pf), 45 P. vivax (Pv), seven mixed Pf–Pv infections. These plus a random sample of 48 GTTS‐negative specimens were selected for this study. All 151 specimens were processed for parasite DNA extraction and assayed by PCR‐MPH. The target DNA sequence of the 18S small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSUrRNA) gene was amplified by PCR and hybridized with species‐specific probes for Pf, Pv, P. malariae (Pm) and P. ovale (Po) immobilized in the wells of the microtiter plate and detected by colorimetric assay. Colour development was assessed at an optical density (OD) of 405 nm. An absorbance reading of ≥ 0.1 was used as a positive cut‐off. In comparison with GTTS results, PCR‐MPH sensitivity was 91.4% (53/58, 95% CI 84.2–98.6) for Pf, 94.2% (49/52, 87.9–100) for Pv and specificity was 95.8% (46/48, 95% CI 90.2–100). There was statistically significant positive correlation between parasite densities ≤ 7000/μl blood and absorbance reading, suggestive of PCR‐MPH being semiquantitative. PCR‐MPH also detected additional Pf and Pv cases as well as Pm and Po.
Prevalence of HIV and Chlamydia trachomatis infection in 15–19‐year olds in rural Tanzania
Authors: Obasi Angela I. , Balira Rebecca , Todd Jim , Ross David A. , Changalucha John , Mosha Frank , Grosskurth Heiner , Peeling Rosanna , Mabey David C. W. , Hayes Richard J.
Published: March 2003

OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of HIV and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections amongst adolescents in rural Mwanza Region, Tanzania and their association with demographic variables.

DESIGN Population‐based cross‐sectional survey.

METHODS All 15–19‐year olds living in households selected by random cluster sampling were invited to participate. After interview, urine was tested for HIV and CT.

RESULTS 9445 15–19‐year olds were enrolled. HIV prevalence was 0.6% (95% CI: 0.4–0.8%) in males and 2.4% (95% CI: 2.0–2.8%) in females, and increased steeply with age (trend: P < 0.006 and P < 0.001, respectively). After adjustment for age, risk of HIV infection was significantly associated with female sex (OR=4.3), never having been to primary school in males (OR=2.7), and current symptoms of genital discharge (OR=2.3) or genital ulcer (OR=5.3) in females. The prevalence of CT was 1.0% (95% CI: 0.8–1.4%) in males and 2.4% (95% CI: 2.0–2.9%) in females. After adjustment for age, CT infection was associated with female sex (OR=2.4), reported current symptoms of STD (males OR=2.5, females OR=1.9) and positive leucocyte esterase (LE) test (males OR=3.1, females OR=2.6). Eighty‐two percent of males and 79% of females with CT were asymptomatic. There was no association between CT and HIV infection in either sex.

CONCLUSIONS There is a high prevalence of HIV and CT amongst adolescents, especially young women, in this rural population, highlighting the need for effective interventions to improve adolescent reproductive health. The high rates of asymptomatic infection imply that innovative strategies are needed to reach and treat young people with STD.
A longitudinal study of Giardia lamblia infection in north‐east Brazilian children
Authors: Newman Robert D. , Moore Sean R. , Lima Aldo A. M. , Nataro James P. , Guerrant Richard L. , Sears Cynthia L.
Published: March 2003

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the epidemiology of Giardia lamblia infection, investigate factors which might be associated with clinical manifestations and recurrence, and examine the role of copathogens in disease course.

METHODS Prospective 4‐year cohort study of children born in an urban slum in north‐eastern Brazil.

RESULTS Of 157 children followed for ≥ 3 months, 43 (27.4%) were infected with Giardia. The organism was identified in 8.8% of all stool specimens, and although found with similar frequency in non‐diarrhoeal (7.4%) and diarrhoeal stools (9.7%), was more common in children with persistent (20.6%) than acute diarrhoea (7.6%, P=0.002). Recurrent or relapsing infections were common (46%). Children with symptomatic infections had significantly lower weight‐for‐age and height‐for‐age than asymptomatic children. Copathogens were not associated with disease course.

CONCLUSION With its protean clinical manifestations, Giardia may be associated with substantial morbidity amongst children in Brazil.
Determining the prevalence of Oesophagostomum bifurcum and Necator americanus infections using specific PCR amplification of DNA from faecal samples
Authors: Verweij J. J. , Pit D. S. S. , Van Lieshout L. , Baeta S. M. , Dery G. D. , Gasser R. B. , Polderman A. M.
Published: March 2003

Until recently infection of humans with Oesophagostomum bifurcum was regarded as a rare zoonosis. But in northern Togo and Ghana its prevalence is 50% or more in certain villages. Diagnosis is hampered by the fact that the eggs of O. bifurcum are morphologically identical to those of the hookworm Necator americanus. Stools have to be cultured for 7 days to allow eggs to hatch to the characteristic third‐stage (L3) larvae. We evaluated the applicability of specific polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) to amplify DNA from faecal samples as an alternative method for the differential diagnosis of the two infections. Oesophagostomum bifurcum‐PCR was positive in 57 of 61 faecal samples known to contain O. bifurcum L3 larvae in coproculture. Necator americanus PCR was positive in 137 of 146 faecal samples known to contain N. americanus L3 larvae in coproculture. PCR also detected 26 additional O. bifurcum cases in 72 samples from O. bifurcum endemic villages in which no O. bifurcum larvae were found and 45 N. americanus cases in 78 samples in which no N. americanus larvae were found in coproculture. No O. bifurcum DNA was detected in 91 stool samples from individuals from two non‐endemic villages. These results prove the usefulness of specific PCR assays as epidemiological tools to estimate the prevalence of O. bifurcum and N. americanus infections in human populations.
Drugs for neglected diseases: a failure of the market and a public health failure?
Authors: Trouiller Patrice , Torreele Els , Olliaro Piero , White Nick , Foster Susan , Wirth Dyann , Pécoul Bernard
Published: March 2003

Infectious diseases cause the suffering of hundreds of millions of people, especially in tropical and subtropical areas. Effective, affordable and easy‐to‐use medicines to fight these diseases are nearly absent. Although science and technology are sufficiently advanced to provide the necessary medicines, very few new drugs are being developed. However, drug discovery is not the major bottleneck. Today’s R&D‐based pharmaceutical industry is reluctant to invest in the development of drugs to treat the major diseases of the poor, because return on investment cannot be guaranteed. With national and international politics supporting a free market‐based world order, financial opportunities rather than global health needs guide the direction of new drug development. Can we accept that the dearth of effective drugs for diseases that mainly affect the poor is simply the sad but inevitable consequence of a global market economy? Or is it a massive public health failure, and a failure to direct economic development for the benefit of society? An urgent reorientation of priorities in drug development and health policy is needed. The pharmaceutical industry must contribute to this effort, but national and international policies need to direct the global economy to address the true health needs of society. This requires political will, a strong commitment to prioritize health considerations over economic interests, and the enforcement of regulations and other mechanisms to stimulate essential drug development. New and creative strategies involving both the public and the private sector are needed to ensure that affordable medicines for today’s neglected diseases are developed. Priority action areas include advocating an essential medicines R&D agenda, capacity‐building in and technology transfer to developing countries, elaborating an adapted legal and regulatory framework, prioritizing funding for essential drug development and securing availability, accessibility, distribution and rational use of these drugs.
Mass vaccination campaigns to eradicate poliomyelitis in Madagascar: oral poliovirus vaccine increased immunity of children who missed routine programme
Authors: Andrianarivelo M. Rakoto , Boisier P. , Rabarijaona L. , Ratsitorahina M. , Migliani R. , Zeller H.
Published: March 2003

To assess the impact of mass vaccination campaigns using oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) in Madagascar, serum neutralizing antibodies and geometrical mean titres (GMTs) to poliovirus were measured among 472 children aged up to 59 months, before and after the mass campaign, regardless of their previous history of routine vaccination. In this study, overall coverage with three routine and two mass campaign OPV doses was 69.9 and 93.4%, respectively. Seroprevalences to all poliovirus types were significantly higher after the mass campaign among the children who were not vaccinated through routine programme: 67.5% vs. 90.2% (P < 0.001) for type 1; 66.7% vs. 95.1% (P < 0.001) for type 2; and 55.3% vs. 82.9% (P < 0.001) for type 3. Geometrical mean titres to all poliovirus types also significantly increased after the mass campaign among the same study group: 34.5 vs. 238.9 (P < 0.001) for type 1; 35.1 vs. 402.6 (P < 0.001) for type 2; and 13.3 vs. 92.6 (P < 0.001) for type 3. Post‐mass campaign seroprevalences and GMTs for poliovirus, especially types 1 and 3, among children who received up to two routine and two mass campaign OPV doses were significantly higher than pre‐mass campaign seroprevalences among children who received three routine OPV doses. Reasons for lack of adherence to the vaccination programme and the mass campaign are discussed. The findings strongly support the WHO strategy of conducting mass campaign in all endemic countries. However, as the mass campaign strategy now has been discontinued, it is crucial to increase the routine coverage and to improve acute flaccid paralysis surveillance in order to fulfil the goal of poliomyelitis eradication.
Risk factors for child mortality in rural Tanzania
Authors: Armstrong Schellenberg Joanna R. M. , Nathan Rose , Abdulla Salim , Mukasa Oscar , Marchant Tanya J. , Tanner Marcel , Lengeler Christian
Published: March 2003

We conducted a community‐based nested case–control study of post‐neonatal deaths in children under 5 years, with frequency‐matched controls chosen from a full sampling frame provided by a demographic surveillance system. Using a questionnaire, we studied treatment‐seeking behaviour in fatal illness. In cases and controls we investigated demographic and socio‐economic factors, health‐seeking behaviour, the household environment including accessibility of health care, and individual child care factors. Half of the deaths (215/427) occurred at home, and one‐third (146/427) at a health facility. Three‐quarters (330/427) of the children who died had received treatment from a health facility in their fatal illness. Four independent risk factors for death were identified which were each associated with more than 5% of child mortality: not being carried on the back while the mother cooked [odds ratio (OR) 1.6: 1.3, 2.0], poor maternal education (OR 1.4: 95% CI 1.0, 1.9 for those with no education compared with those with complete primary education), lack of exclusive breastfeeding in the first 3 months of life (OR 1.4: 1.1, 1.8), and low socio‐economic status (OR 1.3: 1.0, 1.6). The majority of children who died had sought treatment at a health facility during the fatal illness, which would lend support to interventions to improve case‐management. The association between mothers carrying their children and child survival was unexpected and deserves further investigation.
Epidemiological aspects of mycetoma from a retrospective study of 264 cases in West Bengal
Authors: Maiti P. K. , Ray A. , Bandyopadhyay S.
Published: March 2003

Between 1981 and 2000, 264 cases of mycetoma were diagnosed clinically and microbiologically at Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine. Retrospective analysis of the records revealed that the ratio of actinomycetomas and eumycetomas was 197 : 67; the male to female ratio was 183 : 81. Ninety‐four cases occurred in the 1980s and 170 in 1990s, with significantly more infections of Actinomadura spp. (P < 0.01) and fewer with Nocardia caviae (P < 0.01) during the last decade. Pricking was the most common injury associated with eumycetomas (P < 0.01). A total of 196 infections were in exposed body parts and 68 in covered areas. The localization of mycetomas differed significantly (P < 0.01) according to sex, incidence of actinomycetomas or eumycetomas, and obvious history of trauma. Exposed area cases were more common among agricultural workers (P < 0.01), while covered area mycetomas were almost always actinomycetomas with a remarkably lower incidence of N. caviae, A. madurae and Madurella grisea infections. The peak age of onset was between 16 and 25 years. The delay of diagnosis for the 80th percentile of cases was around 6 years for cases caused by N. brasiliensis and Streptomyces spp.; 8 years for N. caviae and N. asteroides; and 10 years for M. grisea and Actinomadura spp. From the history of trauma in 130 patients, the 80th percentile incubation period (IP) was calculated for N. brasiliensis, N. caviae and N. asteroides as 3 years; for Actinomadura spp. 7 years and for M. grisea 9 years. The minimum IP for all organisms was around 3 months.
The absence of HIV seropositivity contrasts with a high prevalence of markers of sexually transmitted infections among registered female sex workers in Toliary, Madagascar
Authors: Xueref Serge , Holianjavony Jeanine , Daniel Raymond , Kerouedan Dominique , Fabry Jacques , Vanhems Philippe
Published: March 2003

In a cross‐sectional study in 1998 we assessed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and syphilis infections and their risk factors among the 316 registered female sex workers (FSWs) of Toliary, south‐west Madagascar. No case of HIV infection was detected, but 18.4% of registered FSWs had syphilis. Only half of these women regularly used condoms. In a multiple logistic regression analysis, risk factors for syphilis infection were multiple clients per week and, paradoxically, regular use of condoms. The variables associated with irregular use of condoms were younger ages of registered FSWs, multiple clients per week and Malagasy clients. The high prevalence of syphilis infection associated with irregular use of condoms might facilitate a very fast spread of HIV infection among these FSWs. Promotion of condom use and surveillance of sexually transmitted infections and HIV infection incidence are needed in the south of Madagascar.
Self‐limiting subepidermal bullous disease in a neonatal foal
Authors: Ginn  , Hillier  , Lester
Published: March 2003

A 1‐day‐old Appaloosa colt developed vesicles/bullae involving the skin of the lips and prepuce and multiple mucous membranes. Histopathology revealed subepidermal vesicles/bullae that were clear or contained variable numbers of neutrophils and erythrocytes. The separated epidermis appeared viable. The denuded dermal papillae were often disrupted by microabscesses or coated with fibrinosuppurative debris. Fragmented basement membrane components were attached to exposed dermal papillae. Immunoperoxidase staining of sections for deposition of IgG, IgM, IgA, and C3 were positive for IgG at the basement membrane and intercellular bridges. Complete recovery ensued. The characteristics of the subepidermal bullous lesions and clinical course of lesion resolution in this foal suggested a drug‐induced pathogenesis. The only known drug exposure of the foal or mare was topical application of 7% iodine to the umbilicus at the time of foaling. Similar reactions to iodine administration have been reported in humans.
Antimicrobial resistance of feline staphylococci in south‐eastern England
Authors: Patel A. , Lloyd D.H. , Lamport A.I.
Published: March 2003

Staphylococcus aureus is reported as the predominant feline staphylococcal pathogen. There is concern that cats may transfer resistant staphylococci to humans. In this study, staphylococci were obtained from skin and mucosae of 20 domestic cats, 9 with lesions, and 10 healthy feral cats. Species were identified by DNase and API ID32 Staph tests. Of 187 isolates, 21.4% were coagulase‐positive and predominately from lesional cats; 90% of these were Staphylococcus intermedius. Coagulase‐negative species were isolated equally in all three groups. All isolates were susceptible to coamoxiclav, cephalexin and bacitracin. Twenty‐two, including 18 coagulase‐negative isolates, showed some resistance to cotrimoxazole, lincomycin, enrofloxacin or oxytetracycline. Two isolates were resistant to more than one antibiotic. More resistant isolates were obtained from feral cats (P < 0.01). The results suggest that S. intermedius is the principal coagulase‐positive species. Antibiotic resistance is generally low amongst feline staphylococci. Higher resistance amongst feral cats suggests exposure to environmental antibiotics.
In vitro release of interferon‐γ by trichophytin‐stimulated whole blood cell cultures from ringworm‐vaccinated and control calves experimentally inoculated with Trichophyton verrucosum
Authors: Lund A. , Bratberg A.M. , Solbakk I.T.
Published: March 2003

Of a group of seven calves, four were vaccinated against bovine ringworm with the vaccine Ringvac bovis LTF‐130 (Alpharma, Oslo, Norway), while three calves were left unvaccinated. All calves were inoculated epicutaneously with a virulent strain of Trichophyton verrucosum. Clinical signs were recorded. In response to stimulation with trichophytin, in vitro interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) production in whole blood cell cultures was assessed in samples obtained pre‐and post‐vaccination and pre‐ and post‐inoculation. A commercial enzyme immunoas‐say kit was used to measure IFN‐γ levels (Bovigam, CSL, Victoria, Australia). Control calves developed typical ringworm lesions, whereas vaccinated calves did not. Following vaccination, release of IFN‐γ in whole blood cell cultures indicated the presence of circulating trichophytin‐specific lymphocytes. After inoculation with T. verrucosum, IFN‐γ production was demonstrated in samples from both vaccinated and control calves. This study showed that vaccination with Ringvac bovis LTF‐130 elicits a protective immune response suggesting involve‐ment of the cellular branch of the immune system. Experimental infection of naïve nonvaccinated calves with T. verrucosum, also indicated stimulation of a cell‐mediated immune response essential for resolution of lesions.
Pemphigus foliaceus in a goat
Authors: Pappalardo Ersilia , Abramo Francesca , Noli Chiara
Published: March 2003

AbstractA 7‐year‐old‐female goat was referred with a 3‐month history of chronic dermatitis, which partially responded to combined corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy. At dermatological examination diffuse alopecia, pustules and crusts were observed on the head, neck, dorsum and perianal area. Dermatophyte culture and skin scrapings were negative. Trichoscopic examination revealed a concurrent infestation withDamalinia caprae, which was successfully treated with ivermectin. Cytological examination of pus from intact pustules revealed nondegenerate neutrophils, absence of bacteria and numerous nucleated, irregularly shaped keratinocytes. Histopathological examination of lesional skin revealed intracorneal pustules containing neutrophils and acantholytic cells, and a mixed cell superficial perivascular dermatitis. Immunohistochemical stains of lesional skin showed intercellular IgG deposits in the spinous layer. Remission of the dermatitis was obtained with injectable dexamethasone‐21‐isonicotinate, every two months for one year. This is the first report to describe the cytological appearance of impression smears from intact pustules of pemphigus foliaceus in a goat and to document the presence of IgG deposits in lesional skin by means of immunohistochemistry.
Comparison of cyclosporine A with methylprednisolone for treatment of canine atopic dermatitis: a parallel, blinded, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Steffan Jean , Alexander Deborah , Brovedani Fabienne , Fisch Roland D.
Published: March 2003

Abstract The objective of this multicentre, parallel, blinded, randomized controlled study was to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of cyclosporine (CsA group, 117 dogs) in comparison with methylprednisolone (MP group, 59 dogs) in the treatment of atopic dermatitis for 4 months. Mean induction dose of both drugs (5 mg/kg CsA, 0.75 mg/kg MP) was tapered over time according to the clinical response. At the end of the study, the mean estimated percentage reduction from baseline (confidence interval) of lesion scores was 52% (44–59) and 45% (35–56), and the reduction in pruritus score was 36% (27–43) and 33% (23–43) in dogs in the CsA and MP groups, respectively. These percentages were not significantly different between groups. A significantly better overall assessment of efficacy was obtained in the CsA‐treated dogs (76 vs. 63% responses excellent or good in the CsA compared with MP group). CsA‐treated dogs presented a higher frequency of gastrointestinal disorders, mainly vomiting, but MP dogs tended to be more susceptible to infections. There was no remarkable change over baseline of the haematological and biochemical parameters in the two groups.
Influence of alkyl oleates on efficacy of phenmedipham applied as an acetone:water solution on Galium aparine
Authors: CABANNE  , GAUDRY  , STREIBIG
Published: March 2003

Galium aparine plants were treated at the two‐whorl stage with technical‐grade phenmedipham. The active ingredient was applied at 10 doses as an acetone:water solution, without emulsifier, alone or in mixture with an ester of oleic acid (methyl, butyl, octyl, dodecanyl, octadecanyl). The plant response was described by a log‐logistic regression model. Phenmedipham applied alone did not kill the plants even at the highest dose (1621 g a.i. ha−1). In contrast, addition of any alkyl oleate to phenmedipham killed the plants at the 200–400 g a.i. ha−1 doses. The alkyl oleates differently affected activity of phenmedipham. Their effects could be ranked as follows: butyl ≥ methyl; octyl> methyl; dodecanyl ≤ methyl; octadecanyl < methyl oleate. Thus, butyl and octyl oleate promoted phenmedipham activity more than methyl oleate.
Seed‐to‐seed allelopathic effects between two invaders of burned Pampa grasslands
Authors: Laterra P , Bazzalo M E
Published: March 2003

The establishment of Lotus tenuis can interfere with colonization by Carduus acanthoides during the early post‐burn recovery of Flooding Pampa grasslands. The purpose of this research was to determine the potential role of L. tenuis seeds as a source of allelopathic compounds involved in that interaction. Imbibed seeds of L. tenuis and aqueous leachates from them were bioassayed for their ability to inhibit germination and seedling growth of C. acanthoides, both on sterilized filter paper and on pasteurized soil as substrata. Germination and/or emergence of C. acanthoides were inhibited and root length was reduced on filter paper or soil, by both the presence of L. tenuis seeds and their leachate, at densities of L. tenuis near the maximum values observed in the field. Germination and seedling growth of C. acanthoides were less affected by the presence of L. tenuis seeds than by the addition of their leachate, and the presence of L. tenuis seeds or their leachate showed stronger effects on emergence of C. acanthoides from soil than on its germination on filter paper. Methods applied for leachate sterilization, ultrafiltration or autoclaving did not modify C. acanthoides responses. Neither the germination rate nor the root length of C. acanthoides seedlings were affected by solutions of polyethylene glycol with similar osmolarity to the leachates. We conclude that the release of inhibitory substances on to filter paper and into pot soil from imbibed L. tenuis seeds would be the mechanism responsible for the observed effects.
Crop canopy development and structure influence weed suppression
Authors: Seavers G P , Wright K J
Published: March 2003

Weed suppression characteristics of different winter cereal species and cultivars were studied in two field experiments in two successive years. Two cultivars each of barley, oats and wheat were studied using the weed Galium aparine L. at a range of densities. Significant differences were found in the suppressive abilities of the crop species: oats being the most suppressive, followed by barley and then wheat. Percentage yield loss was related to G. aparine density using a rectangular hyperbolic model. In 1995–96, significant differences between the two wheat cultivars were found, with cv. Avalon being able to suppress G. aparine growth much more effectively than cv. Spark. However, in 1996–97, high rainfall in May, June and July enabled G. aparine to escape suppression by the cultivars. Cultivar competitive ability was associated with high overall leaf area, resistance to loss of tillers under competitive pressure, greater height, canopy structure and development. The oat cultivars were more competitive at early growth stages than could be accounted for by their canopy structure; the possible contribution of allelopathic exudates to their suppressive ability is discussed.
A pollen test to detect ACCase target‐site resistance within Alopecurus myosuroides populations
Authors: Letouzé  , Gasquez
Published: March 2003

This study was conducted to determine a suitable medium for in vitro germination of Alopecurus myosuroides pollen and to develop a reliable test for the rapid screening of ACCase target site‐resistant plants within populations. The assay is based upon germination of pollen in a medium supplemented with ACCase inhibitors. A 0.25% agar medium, containing 200 mg L–1 CaNO3, 100 mg L–1 H3BO3, 200 g L–1 sucrose, was selected as a suitable medium for in vitro pollen germination. At 25 °C, this medium supported a mean germination rate of 85% within two hours. Plants highly resistant (Rh) to aryloxyphenoxypropionate (APP), owing to the expression of an insensitive ACCase, were found to express this resistance in their pollen. In contrast, plants moderately resistant (Rm) to APP herbicides, owing to an enhanced capacity to detoxify herbicides, did not exhibit this resistance in their pollen. Concentrations of 120 μM fenoxaprop and 1000 μM clodinafop were selected as the best for reliable discrimination of the target‐site‐resistant biotypes. At these concentrations there was more than 50% germination of the Rh pollen grains whereas less than 10% of the S and Rm pollen grains germinated. This test, using haploid material, may also permit distinction between homozygous‐ and heterozygous‐resistant individuals.
Prediction of competition between oilseed rape and Stellaria media
Authors: Lutman  , Bowerman  , Palmer  , Whytock
Published: March 2003

Ten experiments have investigated competition between winter oilseed rape and Stellaria media (common chickweed). Yield losses caused by this weed were often high, but differed greatly between experiments, 5% yield loss being calculated to be caused by 1.4–328 plants m−2. Predictions of yield loss based on relative weed dry weights [weed dry weights/(crop + weed dry weights)] in December were somewhat less variable than those based on weed density, 5% yield loss being caused by 1.4–10.6% relative weed dry weight. The variations in yield loss were related to variations in the competitiveness of the oilseed rape and the S. media, caused by weather differences between years and sites, and the long period between weed assessment and harvest (8–10 months). However, despite the lack of precise relationships, there were indications that the greater the crop dry weights in December, the lower the final yield loss. Delayed sowing of oilseed rape until late September did not clearly increase the competitive effects of the weed compared with late August/early September sowings. Weed competition was not clearly affected by reduced crop density (44–113 plants m−2), because of the compensatory ability of the lowest density. The results of the experiments are discussed in relation to the prediction of yield loss and, thus, possible adjustment of weed control strategies to meet expected crop losses.
Demography of Lolium rigidum in winter barley crops: analysis of recruitment, survival and reproduction
Authors: Fernandez‐Quintanilla  , Barroso  , Recasens  , Sans  , Torner  , Sanchez Del Arco
Published: March 2003

Demographic studies were conducted with Lolium rigidum Gaud. growing in winter barley crops at five sites in central and eastern Spain, over a period of 2 or 3 years. Although threefold differences (34–97%) in annual recruitment were recorded in the various experiments, most of the values were close to the overall average (67%). Seedling emergence took place in a very short period of time after sowing, with 90% emergence generally being reached after a thermal time of 242 d°C (provided soil moisture was adequate at sowing). Seedling survival was very high (78–95%) in most experiments, with no clear relationship between this parameter and any of the environmental variables studied. Survival curves were relatively linear, with plant mortality increasing gradually throughout the life cycle of the plant. There were 34‐fold differences (from 7 to 237 seeds per plant) in the fecundities recorded in the various experiments. Variation in fecundity resulted partly from differences in crop and weed densities and total precipitation received during the growth cycle. The annual rate of population growth was estimated based on the above‐mentioned parameters. The potential for population growth was high (average λ=6.21), but large differences were obtained for the different sites and years.
Seedling emergence and seed longevity of the tree weeds Celtis sinensis and Cinnamomum camphora
Authors: Panetta F D
Published: March 2003

Factors influencing germination and seed survival of Celtis sinensis Pers. and Cinnamomum camphora (L.) Presl. were investigated in a series of experiments conducted under natural rainfall regimes in the field and under irrigation in a growth tunnel. Germination from surface‐sown seeds of C. camphora was virtually nil under natural rainfall, in contrast to almost 100% germination under irrigation. This suggests that surface‐lying seeds of this species will germinate only in highly protected microsites in the field. For C. sinensis, however, in one of the two field experiments germination from surface‐sown seeds was similar (≈40%) to that achieved under irrigation. Germination from intact fruits of both species was generally considerably less than from seeds. Seeds of both species were relatively short‐lived under field conditions. A maximum of 1% of seeds of C. camphora remained viable at 12 months post‐sowing under field conditions, whereas a maximum of 8% viable seeds of C. sinensis was detected at 24 months post‐sowing in one of the field experiments.
Improved management of Avena ludoviciana and Phalaris paradoxa with more densely sown wheat and less herbicide
Authors: Walker S R , Medd R W , Robinson G R , Cullis B R
Published: March 2003

Summary The effectiveness of crop competition for better weed control and reducing herbicide rates was determined forAvena ludoviciana and Phalaris paradoxa. Four experiments, previously broadcast with seeds of the two weeds in separate plots, were sown with three wheat densities, and emerged weeds were treated with four herbicide doses (0–100% of recommended rate). The measured crop and weed traits were first analysed across experiments for treatment effects. Grain yield and weed seed production data were then analysed using cubic smoothing splines to model the response surfaces. Although herbicide rate for both weeds and crop density for P. paradoxa had significant linear effects on yield, there was a significant non‐linearity of the response surface. Similarly, herbicide rate and crop density had significant linear effects on weed seed production, and there was significant non‐linearity of the response surface that differed for the weed species. Maximum crop yield and reduction in seed production of P. paradoxa was achieved with approximately 80 wheat plants m−2 and weeds treated with 100% herbicide rate. For A. ludoviciana, this was 130 wheat plants m−2 applied with 75% herbicide rate. Alternatively, these benefits were achieved by increasing crop density to 150 plants m−2 applied with 50% herbicide rate. At high crop density, application of the 100% herbicide rate tended to reduce yield, particularly with the A. ludoviciana herbicide, and this impacted adversely on the suppression of weed seed production. Thus, more competitive wheat crops have the potential for improving weed control and reducing herbicide rates.
The influence of nitrogen supply on the ability of wheat and potato to suppressStellaria mediagrowth and reproduction
Authors: Van Delden A , Lotz L A P , Bastiaans L , Franke A C , Smid H G , Groeneveld R M W , Kropff M J
Published: March 2003

SummaryThis paper tests the hypothesis that increased soil nitrogen supply reduces the growth of late‐emerging weeds in wheat and potato by enhancing canopy leaf area development and thereby reducing the availability of light for weed growth. Two series of experiments were conducted: one in spring wheat (1997, 1999) with sownStellaria mediaand one in potato (1998, 1999) with naturally emerged weeds, includingS. media. For each crop, two cultivars were grown at three levels of nitrogen supply. In wheat, as in a monoculture ofS. media, total dry weight and seed number of the weed increased with soil nitrogen supply, whereas in potato the opposite was found. Increased soil nitrogen supply increased the nitrogen uptake ofS. mediain wheat, despite the reduced light availability, indicating thatS. mediain wheat was limited by nitrogen. In potato, on the other hand, growth ofS. mediawas limited by light availability, which decreased with increased soil nitrogen supply.We conclude that the differences in response ofS. mediain wheat and potato to additional nitrogen supply are attributable to the dual influence of soil nitrogen supply on light and nitrogen availability, which are mediated by the crops.
Glyphosate‐resistant Lolium multiflorum in Chilean orchards
Authors: Perez A , Kogan M
Published: March 2003

Summary Lolium multiflorum (Italian ryegrass) seeds suspected of being resistant to glyphosate were collected from fruit orchards at two locations, San Bernardo (SB) and Olivar (OL), Chile, that had been treated an average of three times per year with the isopropylamine salt of glyphosate during the previous 8–10 years. Laboratory experiments were conducted for each orchard population and a susceptible population, a commercial cultivar called Tama (TM), using Petri dishes containing filter paper saturated with 5 mL of glyphosate solution (0–160 mg a.e. L−1). Pot dose–response experiments were also conducted in the greenhouse. The three L. multiflorum populations were treated with glyphosate (0.00–4.32 kg a.e. ha−1). The dose needed to reduce shoot length (Petri dish experiment) and fresh weight (pot dose–response experiment) by 50% was determined for each population. Compared with the TM population, the Petri dish experiment found that the SB and OL populations were five‐ and sixfold, respectively, more resistant to glyphosate, whereas the pot dose–response experiment found that the SB and OL populations were two‐ and fourfold, respectively, more resistant to glyphosate. These results confirm a new case of glyphosate resistance in a novel species, L. multiflorum, and correspond to the first case of glyphosate resistance reported from South America.
Community health workers reduce skin diseases in East African children
Authors: Schmeller MD Wilfried
Published: March 2003

Background Epidemiologic data concerning skin diseases in many rural areas in sub‐Saharan Africa are not available. Little is known about the effect of regular treatment schedules by paramedical staff (especially community health workers) in the primary healthcare system on the severity and prevalence of dermatoses.

Methods 5780 school and pre‐school children from 13 primary schools in four sublocations in rural western Kenya (Kisumu District) were examined for dermatoses by the author, together with community health workers in 1993. On‐the‐spot training and weekend seminars about important and common dermatoses were also given. In 1994 a dermatology program was started within the primary healthcare system. Twelve trained community health workers carried out regular school visits once a week and diagnosed and treated pupils with dermatoses. Treatment was performed with gentian violet 1% solution for bacterial skin infections, Whitfield’s ointment for dermatophytoses, benzylbenzoate emulsion 25% for scabies, and hydrocortisone acetate 1% cream for eczemas. All schools were visited again in 1995 to evaluate the long‐term effects of the program.

Results In 1993, the prevalence rate for dermatoses was 32.4%. Most of the skin diseases found were of infective origin (27.1% were caused by bacteria, 21.6% by fungi, and 17.6% by arthropods, mainly scabies mites). Dermatitis accounted for 3.5%. In 1995, the prevalence of dermatoses declined to 29.6% (p<0.05), and this reduction was most strongly observed for tropical ulcers and tinea capitis. Additionally, there was an improvement in the extent and severity of skin diseases.

Conclusions This study defines, for the first time, the number and extent of skin diseases in children in rural Kisumu District; most dermatoses were of infective origin. The study demonstrates that community health workers in the primary healthcare system are capable of dealing successfully with the most common dermatoses in children following a short training period.
Topical hydroquinone in the treatment of some hyperpigmentary disorders
Authors: Amer Mohamed , Metwalli Mohamed
Published: March 2003

Seventy patients (50 with melasma, 10 with freckles, and 10 with post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation) were admitted to this trial. Treatment in the form of 4% hydroquinone (HQ) was applied topically twice daily for a maximum of 12 weeks. Patients were advised to avoid sun exposure and/or to use topical sunscreen during the entire period of treatment.

All patients were examined at week 0 and at weeks 4, 8, and 12 of therapy. At each visit, the lesion size was determined and the pigmentary intensity of melasma, freckles, and the area of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) relative to a non‐affected area of skin was rated on a four‐point scale: 1, no difference; 2, mild pigmentation; 3, moderate pigmentation; 4, severe pigmentation. At the last visit, the overall response was rated as excellent, good, fair, or poor.
Comparison of histopathologic and clinical evaluations of pathergy test in Behçet’s disease
Authors: Akmaz Özlem , Erel Arzu , Gürer Mehmet Ali
Published: March 2003

Background The pathergy test, an important test in the diagnosis of Behçet’s disease, is currently applied with disposable/sharp needles and evaluated only clinically (no histopathologic evaluation). In this study, the usefulness of the pathergy test conducted intradermally and intravenously with disposable/sharp needles in the diagnosis and determination of the activation of the disease is studied in comparison with the test conducted with nondisposable/blunt needles. In addition, histopathologic evaluation of the pathergy test is compared with the clinical evaluation.

Methods The study group consists of 43 Behçet’s disease patients together with 15 patients with dermatosis as the control group. The pathergy test was applied to the Behçet’s disease patients and the control group intradermally and intravenously with disposable/sharp and nondisposable/blunt needles.

Results The results of the pathergy test on the patients and the control group were evaluated clinically and histopathologically.

Conclusions Clinical evaluation of the pathergy test conducted intradermally with nondisposable/blunt needles is sufficient for both the diagnosis and determination of the activation of Behçet’s disease. Histopathologic evaluation of the test is not found to be more sensitive than the clinical evaluation.