bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shigella and Salmonella strains isolated from children under 5 years in Gaborone, Botswana, and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns
Authors: Urio E. M. , Collison E. K. , Gashe B. A. , Sebunya T. K. , Mpuchane S.
Published: March 2003

We isolated Shigella from 43/221 (21%) and Salmonella 8/221 (3%) rectal swabs from children under 5 years with diarrhoea, and found Shigella in two of 100 specimens from children without diarrhoea. Sh. boydii (13%) was the most prevalent Shigella species followed by Sh. flexneri (6%) and Sh. sonnei (2%). The prevalence of various types of Sh. boydii was type 7, 5%; type 9, 3%; type 12 and 16, 2%; and type 18, 1%. Other Shigella serotypes encountered were Sh. flexneri type 6 (4%), type 4 (2%), with Sh. sonnei phase II isolated from 2% of the specimens. The Salmonella species were S. typhimurium and S. paratyphi. The high rate of isolation of Shigella species from children with diarrhoea is indicative of a definite role of this enteropathogen in causing endemic diarrhoea in Gaborone, Botswana. Antibiograms of the predominant isolates showed that most Shigella species were resistant to ampicillin but susceptible to chloramphenicol, and with the exception of Sh. flexneri type 6, also susceptible to gentamicin. The Salmonella species were susceptible to chloramphenicol, collistin‐sulphate, gentamicin, cotrimoxazole, and ampicillin.
Neurological long‐term sequelae after spinal anaesthesia in a tropical setting: A case control study
Authors: Bauer M. , Fiala C. , Mues P. , Schmutzhard E.
Published: March 2003

Spinal anaesthesia (SA) is an important form of anaesthesia in tropical countries. It is considered to have few long‐term complications or sequelae, although this hypothesis has not been proven in a rural tropical setting. In a case control study we found SA to be a significant risk factor for lower back pain, reflex abnormalities and muscular atrophy and mild impairment of muscle power in patients examined between 3 months and 4 years after SA. These long‐term sequelae need to be confirmed in a larger prospective study employing all possible neurophysiological and neuroimaging techniques.
The situation of sleeping sickness in Angola: a calamity
Authors: Stanghellini A. , Josenando T.
Published: March 2003

Although nearly one‐fifth of the Angolan population is at risk of becoming infected with trypanosomiasis, only 6% currently have access to surveillance and treatment because of the war and its resultant destruction of the country’s infrastructure. The paper outlines the history of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) control activities in Angola and sums up what measures need to be taken to re‐establish them.
Neurocysticercosis: validity of ELISA after storage of whole blood and cerebrospinal fluid on paper
Authors: Fleury A. , Bouteille B. , Garcia E. , Marquez C. , Preux P.M. , Escobedo F. , Sotelo J. , Dumas M.
Published: March 2003

Cysticercosis is an infestation of Cysticercus cellulosae. When it occurs in the brain, chronic neurological complications can ensue, most commonly seizures. Neurocysticercosis is usually diagnosed by neuroimaging, a technique not available in most endemic countries. Hence immunological tests are valuable for diagnosis and epidemiological surveys. We evaluated the suitability of paper for storing blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) until subsequent testing by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), by testing whole blood samples on filter paper from 305 patients and CSF samples from 117 patients stored on ordinary white typing paper and on filter paper. Optimal preservation of biological samples is achieved when whole blood is stored on filter paper, CSF on white paper, and when samples are frozen within 1 week after collection. Our results could improve diagnostic capabilities and facilitate epidemiological surveys in endemic countries where immunodiagnostic tests cannot be rapidly performed because of inadequate laboratory infrastructure.
Short communication: Post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis: does it play a role in the transmission of Leishmania donovani in the Sudan?
Authors: El Hassan A. M. , Khalil E. A. G.
Published: March 2003

In 1997 a sudden outbreak of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) occurred in eastern Sudan, coinciding with an increase of post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) cases which may in part be because of sylvatic and anthroponotic transmission. Paradoxically, the more VL patients are treated, the higher the frequency of PKDL. If PKDL plays a role in transmission, its treatment would be expected to reduce infection in the area. Treatment of PKDL, however, requires four times the amount of Pentostam used for treating VL, and the drug is both expensive and in short supply.
Pathological differentiation of suspected cases of pentastomiasis in China
Authors: Ma K. C. , Qiu M. H. , Rong Y. L.
Published: March 2003

We report nine cases of suspected pentastomiasis from China, and propose that diagnosis of this rare parasitic disease should be made aetio‐pathologically, subaetio‐pathologically, and presumptively. In none of our cases' lesions we could find either a whole or part of an embedded nymph; hence, no aetio‐pathologic diagnosis of pentastomid infection was established. In three cases, subaetio‐pathologic diagnoses of pentastomiasis were made upon the discovery of a peculiar set of relics from lesions, namely two pairs of circumoral hooks of pentastomid from lesions. In one of these three cases, an extra scissors‐like image indicating a longitudinal section of a hook of the embedded pentastomid nymph, probably Linguatula serrata, was found. In the other six cases, none of the relics of the aetiological agents were found, and our diagnoses were made presumptively by a series of relatively specific pathologic features, i.e. pearly lesions over the peritoneal surface of the abdominal cavity under the serosa of the intestinal wall or under the capsules of liver and spleen. They tend to be uniquely protuberant, sometimes linked by a short thin stalk to the surface. The hyalinization and calcification of these centrally caseated granulomatous nodules tend to be concentric and targetoid in appearance. Tuberculosis, the most easily confused condition, was easily ruled out pathohistologically. We believe that there is a need for presumptive pathologic diagnosis of human pentastomid infection not only in China, but worldwide.
Diagnosis of amoebic colitis by antigen capture ELISA in patients presenting with acute diarrhoea in Cairo, Egypt
Authors: Abd‐Alla Mohamed D. , Ravdin Jonathan I.
Published: March 2003

We studied 84 consecutive patients presenting with acute diarrhoea (less than 1 week in duration) at an outpatient tropical medicine clinic in Cairo, Egypt. The diagnosis of amoebic colitis was established by the presence of Entamoeba histolytica galactose‐inhibitable lectin antigen and the presence of occult blood in stool. Controls were 182 healthy regional people and 64 patients complaining of prolonged diarrhoea lasting more than 1 week. Entamoeba histolytica infection was found more frequently in patients with acute diarrhoea (57.1%) than in healthy controls (21.4%) or patients with prolonged diarrhoea (25%) (P < 0.001). There was a higher prevalence of Entamoeba dispar infection in the two control groups (24.2 and 20.3%, respectively, P=0.004 and 0.061) compared with those with acute diarrhoea (8.3%). Of the 84 patients with acute diarrhoea 32 had amoebic colitis (38%), and of these, 31 (97%) had at least one positive assay for serum amoebic antibodies (P < 0.001 compared with control groups). In summary, as determined by antigen‐detection enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, there is an unexpectedly high prevalence of amoebic colitis among patients presenting with acute diarrhoea to a tropical disease clinic in Cairo, Egypt.
Environmental factors as determinants of malaria risk. A descriptive study on the northern coast of Peru
Authors: Guthmann J. P. , Llanos‐Cuentas A. , Palacios A. , Hall A. J.
Published: March 2003

We conducted a series of studies on the northern Pacific coast of Peru to determine environmental risk factors for malaria. We report in this paper the results of both a descriptive study of incidence and a prevalence survey of malaria. Both studies showed that the area was at low risk for malaria. The malaria incidence rate was 40/1000 p.a. during the study period, and the prevalence of infection was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.4–1.7) before and 1.4% (95% CI: 0.8–2.2) after the high incidence period. However, the risk of malaria varied according to season, village and even house within a single village. Incidence rates increased from February (2.6/1000 p.a.) to May (12.9/1000 p.a.) and decreased during the second part of the year. Most of the cases were clustered in four villages that constituted only 21% of the total population of the area. Houses where multiple cases were recorded were often located near a source of water. Our observations suggested that environmental factors, and particularly the presence of water for irrigation around villages and houses, played a major role in determining the risk of malaria. These observations were extended through an entomological study and a case–control study, to be published elsewhere.
Review: Molecular biological applications in the diagnosis and control of leishmaniasis and parasite identification
Authors: Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Oskam Linda
Published: March 2003

Molecular biology is increasingly relevant to the diagnosis and control of infectious diseases. Information on DNA sequences has been extensively exploited for the development of polymerase chain reaction‐based assays for the diagnosis of leishmaniasis and the identification of parasite species. It has also led to the use of cloned antigen for serodiagnosis. It is expected that the sequencing of the Leishmania major genome and the genomes of other Leishmania species will enable important progress in further improving diagnosis and control. The ability to use genome data to clone and sequence genes, which, when expressed, provide antigens for vaccine development, will increase the possibilities for rational vaccine development. Moreover, DNA on its own will provide the basis for the development of DNA vaccines that may overcome some of the problems encountered with protein‐based vaccines. One of the greatest threats to parasite control is the development of drug resistance in parasites. Knowing the molecular basis of drug resistance and the ability to monitor its development with sensitive and specific DNA‐based assays for `resistance alleles' may aid maintaining the effectiveness of available anti‐Leishmania drugs. Finally, techniques such as microarrays and nucleic acid sequence‐based amplification will eventually allow rapid screening for specific parasite genotypes and assist in diagnostic and epidemiological studies.
Malaria control in complex emergencies: the example of East Timor
Authors: Kolaczinski Jan , Webster Jayne
Published: March 2003

Malaria control in complex emergencies forms part of the World Health Organization's Roll Back Malaria (RBM) initiative. The underlying principle is a partnership with other UN agencies and non‐governmental organizations, with the RBM programme providing support to its implementing partners through a Technical Support Network. This innovative approach was applied for the first time in 1999–2000, following the return of stability and security to East Timor. The RBM programme assessed the malaria situation during the acute emergency phase and identified programme priorities. Two non‐governmental organizations were subsequently invited to operate as implementing partners. Individual proposals were developed and funding obtained, but no overall organizational and planning framework was established. Implementation commenced quickly, addressing aspects of prevention, diagnosis and treatment. As East Timor progressed into the transitional phase towards independence, the programme was not realigned to the changing context. Absence of monitoring and evaluation was a significant factor contributing to the resulting continuation of emergency malaria control activities well into the transitional phase. East Timor's example of malaria control in complex emergencies provides important lessons: (i) partnership roles and responsibilities should be clearly defined from the beginning of the programme, (ii) planning, monitoring and evaluation should be instigated from the start with the aim to develop long‐term strategies and policies, (iii) expert support is necessary to guide implementation at all stages, (iv) the flexibility to react to changing priorities should be ensured as the context of the emergency and the available health structure changes, and (v) the implementation process, and alternatives for continuation of activities once the RBM complex emergency partnership has terminated, should be clarified to all partners involved.
Measuring morbidity in schistosomiasis mansoni: relationship between image pattern, portal vein diameter and portal branch thickness in large‐scale surveys using new WHO coding guidelines for ultrasound in schistosomiasis
Authors: King Charles H. , Magak Philip , Salam Ekram Abdel , Ouma John H. , Kariuki H. Curtis , Blanton Ronald E.
Published: March 2003

Objective  World Health Organization consensus meetings on ‘Ultrasound in Schistosomiasis’ in 1996 and 1997 anticipated further challenges in the global implementation of a standardized protocol for morbidity assessment in schistosomiasis mansoni. We evaluated the performance of the qualitative and quantitative components of the new Niamey criteria.

Method  Use of the Niamey protocol among 3954 subjects in two linked, cross‐sectional ultrasound surveys of Schistosoma mansoni‐endemic populations in Egypt and Kenya.

Results  There were significant differences between Egyptian and Kenyan sites in prevalence and age distribution of S. mansoni‐related hepatic fibrosis (36%vs. 3%, P < 0.001). Protocol image pattern scoring could be performed quickly and was stable to interobserver variation. However, there were unintended but systematic differences between study sites in the measurement of portal vein diameter (PVD) and wall thickness. By Niamey criteria, a high prevalence of portal dilation was scored for normal Egyptian subjects, which reduced the predictive value of image pattern for portal hypertension. Using alternative height‐indexing of PVD, image pattern plus PVD findings predicted 15% of Egyptians and 2.5% of Kenyans were at risk for variceal bleeding, whereas locally derived PVD norms estimated 25% of Egyptians and 12% of Kenyans to be at possible risk.

Conclusion  Niamey scoring criteria performed acceptably as a relative grading system for disease in schistosomiasis mansoni, but failed to account fully for site‐to‐site variation in test performance and morbidity prevalence. Consequently, standardized image pattern scoring appears to provide the most useful tool for detection and comparison of S. mansoni‐associated morbidity in large‐scale surveys.
Erythema multiforme in dogs and cats: literature review and case material from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (1988–96)
Authors: Scott  , Miller Jr
Published: March 2003

A review of case material from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine from 1988 to 1996 identified 20 dogs and one cat with definitive or presumed erythema multiforme. An additional 24 dogs and five cats with definitive or presumed erythema multiforme were found in the veterinary literature. Erythema multiforme accounted for only 0.40% and 0.11%, respectively, of all the canine and feline dermatology cases examined over a 9‐year period. German Shepherd dogs and Pembroke Welsh Corgis appeared predisposed. The condition was manifested as a vesiculobullous and/or ulcerative dermatosis in the majority of dogs and cats. In dogs, the most commonly affected body sites included the ventrum (especially axillae and groin), mucocutaneous junctions, oral cavity, pinnae, and footpads. Histopathological findings in cutaneous and mucocutaneous biopsy specimens were consistent with previously published criteria. In dogs, erythema multiforme occurred more frequently in patients receiving drug therapy. In cats, all cases of erythema multiforme were presumed to be drug related. Elimination of the associated trigger factor and supportive care usually resulted in resolution of the erythema multiforme within 1–2 weeks. Four dogs with severe idiopathic erythema multiforme were successfully managed with glucocorticoids or azathioprine.
Effects of a 1% hydrocortisone conditioner on haematological and biochemical parameters, adrenal function testing and cutaneous reactivity to histamine in normal and pruritic dogs
Authors: Thomas  , Logas  , Radosta  , Harrison
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this double‐blinded study was to examine the effects of a 1% hydrocortisone, leave‐on conditioner on haematological and biochemical parameters, adrenal function tests, and cutaneous reaction to serial dilutions of histamine phosphate in normal dogs and those with pruritic dermatitis. Groups 1 and 2 each consisted of eight normal dogs. Seven pruritic dogs comprised Group 3. All dogs were bathed twice weekly for 6 weeks. Groups 1 and 3 had 1% hydrocortisone conditioner applied after each bath. Group 2 had vehicle from the conditioner applied after each bath. The amount of 1% hydrocortisone applied to the treated dogs ranged from 278 to 416 mg/m2. Haematological and biochemical analysis and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation tests were performed on all dogs on days 0, 14, 28, and 42. Mean values for all blood and serum parameters remained within normal limits during the study. Post‐ACTH cortisol levels were significantly lower in Group 3 compared to Groups 1 and 2 on day 42 (P< 0.05) and when averaged over all days of the study (P< 0.05 andP< 0.01, respectively). Serum alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly lower in Group 3 on day 0, compared to days 14 (P< 0.05), 28 (P< 0.01), and 42 (P = 0.05). All dogs received intradermal injections of buffered saline and five serial dilutions of histamine phosphate on days 0, 14, 28, and 42. No significant differences were apparent among the groups in subjective and objective evaluation of intradermally injected dilutions of histamine. In this study, the use of a 1% hydrocortisone leave‐on conditioner did not result in clinically evident adverse effects, and only minor changes in blood parameters were detected. Although mean values in all groups remained within reference ranges throughout the study, the finding of statistically significant lower post‐ACTH cortisol concentrations in the pruritic dogs (Group 3) suggests that absorption of hydrocortisone may have occurred. The results of this study also show that this product does not significantly suppress cutaneous reactivity to histamine in normal and pruritic dogs.
Cephalosporins – pharmacological basis of clinical use in veterinary dermatology
Authors: Mason I.S. , Kietzmann M.
Published: March 2003

Cephalosporins form a large group of β‐lactam antibiotics which are used extensively in human medicine and to a lesser extent in domestic animals. In veterinary dermatology, the principle use for the cephalosporins is the clinical management of canine pyoderma associated withStaphylococcus intermedius. In practice, the use of orally administered first generation cephalosporin drugs to affected dogs is well tolerated and highly efficacious. Bacterial drug resistance appears to occur rarely.
Effects of zinc and linoleic acid supplementation on the skin and coat quality of dogs receiving a complete and balanced diet
Authors: Marsh K.A. , Ruedisueli F.L. , Coe S.L. , Watson T.G.D.
Published: March 2003

This study investigates what effect adding zinc to a final dietary concentration of 23.9 mg MJ−1 and/or linoleic acid to a dietary concentration of 3.6 g MJ−1 in a complete and balanced diet has on the skin and haircoat condition of adult dogs. All animals were fed for nine weeks on a standard diet followed by nine weeks on a supplemented diet. After each phase animals were quantitatively assessed with respect to the condition and function of their skin and coat. Dogs supplemented with the combination of zinc and linoleic acid showed a significant improvement in coat gloss (P = 0.05) and coat scale (P = 0.007) when compared to the control group of dogs receiving the standard diet. In addition dogs supplemented with either zinc alone or in combination with linoleic acid demonstrated a significant decrease (P = 0.05) in transepidermal water loss over the time course of the test phase. As far as we are aware this is the first reported research to show that supplementation of a complete and balanced commercial dog food with zinc plus linoleic acid can make significant and substantial enhancements of the skin and coat condition in dogs.
Hepatozoon canis, a fortuitous or pathogenic agent in canine dermatology: a review of three cases
Authors: Hubert B. , Beaufils J. P. , Fabbrini F. , Magnol J. P.
Published: March 2003

The role played by Hepatozoon canis is subject to considerable discussion, as its presence does not consistently appear to be pathogenic. Should the pathology be severe, blood samples or medullary specimens enable the parasite to be isolated, either on its own or associated with other parasitic agents such as Ehrlichia canis. To identify it in a dermatological context is a much rarer occurrence. A description is provided of three cases in which the search for an underlying cause of disease revealed the presence of the parasite; the role of the parasite in the process was unclear. A 9‐year‐old Beauceron dog did not recover from a case of oral papillomatosis. A loss of weight, generalized adenomegaly and splenomegaly completed the clinical picture. The myelogram showed that H. canis gametocytes were present. Therapy with imidocarb and toltrazuril neither improved the dog’s general condition nor did it have a clinical impact on the oral papillomatosis. An 11‐year‐old Beauceron bitch was examined for pyoderma on the foreleg and a hind limb digit. Antibiotic treatment did not produce a clinical cure. Two weeks later, cytological examination of exudates revealed the presence of two H. canis gametocytes. The patient’s condition was improved by the administration of imidocarb and doxycycline. A 10‐year‐old poodle dog exhibited numerous ulcers, and on histological examination of tissue biopsies and the cutaneous slides, Leishmania canis and H. canis were identified. There was no clinical response to treatment. H. canis should be considered where there are unusual manifestations of skin diseases and lack of response to appropriate therapy.
Allergen‐specific immunotherapy in dogs with atopic dermatitis and house dust mite hypersensitivity: use of symptom/medication scores
Authors: Hillier A. , Kwochka K. W.
Published: March 2003

There is no published literature on the efficacy of allergen‐specific immunotherapy (ASIT) for dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD) and house dust mite (HDM) hypersensitivity. Symptom/medication (SM) scoring is the standard measure of clinical disease during ASIT in humans. The purpose of this study was to determine the response to ASIT in dogs with AD and HDM hypersensitivity using SM scores, and compare results with the owner’s global assessment and the investigator’s clinical evaluation. All dogs had nonseasonal AD, positive intradermal test reactions to HDM, and were treated for 12 months with ASIT that included HDM allergens. Evaluations at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months included: daily owner symptom (pruritus, lesions, coat character) and medication (all anti‐inflammatory medications) scoring for 28 days; owner global assessment; and investigator clinical sign score. Occurrence of skin infections was documented throughout the study. Statistical analysis of SM scores at 0 and 12 months was performed using Student’s t‐test. Nineteen dogs completed the study. Fourteen (74%) dogs showed significant improvement (P < 0.05) in SM score. A 50% improvement in SM score, owners’ global assessment and clinical sign score was seen in 12 (63%), 17 (89%) and 10 (53%) dogs, respectively. In the first 6 months of ASIT, 17 episodes of skin infections (12 dogs) were recorded, and 13 episodes (10 dogs) in the final 6 months. The majority of dogs with AD and HDM hypersensitivity improved with ASIT. SM scores are a useful semiquantitative measure of clinical disease. Many dogs continued to have skin infections.

 This study was funded by the Ohio Animal Health Foundation.
Moisture content and dormancy in	Striga asiatica seeds
Authors: MOHAMED  , EJETA  , BUTLER  , HOUSLEY
Published: March 2003

Freshly harvested Striga asiatica L. seeds will germinate in response to a stimulant only after the passage of time, an after‐ripening period, and exposure to moisture at a suitable temperature, a conditioning period. To investigate the role of seed moisture content in the regulation of the after‐ripening period, seeds were placed in chambers having specific relative humidity of 6%, 14%, 33%, 75% and 91% for 30, 60, 90 and 150 days. The seeds were then conditioned and germination percentage, response to tetrazolium and seed moisture contents were measured. Seeds at moisture contents less than 10% at the start of conditioning had germination of greater than 93%. Seeds at moisture contents over 10% at the start of conditioning could germinate between 60% and 3%, with germination decreasing as seed moisture content at the start of conditioning increased. The highest moisture content (17%) and lowest germination percentage (3%) occurred in seeds stored at 91% relative humidity for 150 days. There was a linear relationship of a high degree of correlation (0.997) between a positive tetrazolium test and germination capacity. Germination capacity of seeds could be changed from 90% to 3% by prolonged storage in water (dilute benomyl solution), causing `wet dormancy', then returned to 90% germination by returning to dry storage. Seed moisture content at the beginning of conditioning appears to control the responsiveness of the seeds to germination stimulants. The implications of these findings to the control of the parasite are discussed.
Sulfonylurea resistance in Lindernia micrantha, an annual paddy weed in Japan
Authors: Itoh  , Wang  , Ohba
Published: March 2003

Resistance to sulfonylurea herbicides, including bensulfuron‐methyl, pyrazosulfuron‐ethyl, imazosulfuron and ethoxysulfuron, was discovered in naturally occurring populations of Lindernia micrantha D. Don in rice fields that had been treated with sulfonylurea‐based herbicides for 3–7 consecutive years. The resistant biotype was approximately 80≈300 times more resistant than the susceptible one to the above four sulfonylurea herbicides. This is the second confirmed occurrence of herbicide resistance resulting from the use of sulfonylurea herbicides in Japan. Several herbicides with different modes of action, including pretilachlor, cafenstrole, bifenox, naproanilide, thiobencarb + simetryn + MCPB, MCPA‐thioethyl + simetryn and cyhalofop‐butyl + bentazone, effectively controlled the resistant biotype in pot trials.
Characterizing the spatial pattern of Abutilon theophrasti seedling patches
Authors: Dieleman  , Mortensen
Published: March 2003

Spatial biology of weed populations is the study of weed patches and their relevant patch‐level processes. In this context, a patch was defined as an area in which individuals are aggregated into discrete subdivided populations. Four Abutilon theophrasti seedling patches in two continuous maize production fields were surveyed using a contiguous grid of quadrats between 1995 and 1997. Surveyed area was dependent on patch size and ranged from 96 m2 to 1134 m2. Within each area, all seedlings were counted in each 1 m × 0.75 m quadrat in June, just before post‐emergence weed control, and in mid‐July after all weed control practices were completed. The spatial pattern observed in the seedling distribution maps was single or multiple focal points of high seedling density that decreased with distance from the focal point. Two‐directional correlograms corroborated this visual observation, such that A. theophrasti seedling density in neighbouring quadrats was spatially autocorrelated, and correlation strength decreased with distance separating quadrats. Autocorrelation coefficients decreased at a greater rate across crop rows than parallel to crop rows. Visually, patch shape was elliptical and oriented in the direction of field traffic. Factors affecting patch‐level processes of spatial aggregation, stability and edge dynamics were considered.
Mechanical damage to annual weeds and carrots by in‐row brush weeding
Authors: Fogelberg  , Gustavsson
Published: March 2003

Field experiments were carried out in order to assess the selectivity of in‐row brush weeding in carrots with a natural flora of annual weeds, represented by Urtica urens L., Stellaria media (L.) Vill., Chenopodium album L., Senecio vulgaris L., Capsella bursa‐pastoris (L.) Med., Chamomilla suaveolens (L.) Pursh Buch. and Matricaria inodora L. The mechanisms by which the weeds and carrots were controlled (uprooting vs. soil covering) were studied using a portable vacuum‐cleaner. Weeds at the two‐ to four‐true‐leaf stage proved to be more sensitive to brushing than carrots with two to four true leaves but, for later development stages of the weeds, there were no differences. Weeds at the six‐ to eight‐leaf stage were only killed to an extent of 20–50%. Uprooting generally accounted for 45–90% of the weed mortality at the two‐ to four‐leaf stage, whereas most of the mortality in carrots was the result of soil covering. The vacuum‐cleaning method proved to be a simple and rapid way of determining whether plants had been killed by uprooting or soil covering. It was concluded that the major mechanism of weed control obtained by brush weeding is uprooting.
Genetic diversity of weeds growing in continuous wheat
Authors: Cavan  , Potier  , Moss
Published: March 2003

Genome fingerprinting by simple sequence repeat (SSR)‐anchored polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to analyse diversity in four weed species (Alopecurus myosuroides Huds., Medicago lupulina L., Stellaria media (L.) Vill. and Aphanes arvensis L.) growing in the Broadbalk long‐term wheat experiment. The experiment is made up of individual plots, to which different fertilizer regimes have been applied annually for more than 150 years. Sixteen polymorphic loci were analysed in the obligate outcrosser A. myosuroides (24 plants sampled on each of four plots); the proportion of total diversity caused by differences between populations (Gst) was low (0.02). Twelve loci were analysed in the self‐pollinating species M. lupulina (24 plants sampled on each of four plots, Gst=0.12) and S. media (24 plants sampled on each of three plots, Gst=0.11); and 11 loci in the apomict A. arvensis (24 plants sampled on each of four plots, Gst=0.19). There was no relationship between the geographic distances separating plots and the genetic distances between samples from the weed populations growing on each plot. Soil fertility had an effect on molecular diversity in S. media: plants growing on low‐nitrogen showed divergence from those sampled on high‐nitrogen plots, which contained slightly more diversity.
Variation in the factors determining flowering time in the Stellaria media complex
Authors: Miura R , Kusanagi T
Published: March 2003

The effects of vernalization and photoperiod on flowering time were studied in Stellaria media (L.) Vill., Stellaria neglecta Weihe and Stellaria pallida (Dumort.) Piré collected from various habitats in Kyoto, Japan. Short‐ and long‐day treatments had little effect on flowering in all strains of the three species. In two strains of S. media from riverside habitats and all strains of S. neglecta, the cohorts that were sown early in the autumn under natural conditions required a longer time to flower and had the first flower at a higher node position than the cohorts that were sown later. When grown in the greenhouse (minimum temperature >10 °C) these strains required a larger estimated thermal time than under natural conditions or did not produce flower buds at all, showing a requirement for vernalization. In comparison, most strains of S. media and all strains of S. pallida produced the first flower at almost the same node position independent of sowing time, and showed no requirement for vernalization. The strains of S. media from vegetable fields required a smaller thermal time than those from ruderal or semi‐natural habitats. This observation was also true even after the non‐agrestal strains had been adequately vernalized.
Persistence and management of enhanced carbetamide biodegradation in soil
Authors: Hole S J W , McClure N C , Powles S B
Published: March 2003

The extent of enhanced degradation of the herbicide carbetamide declined over time after herbicide application was discontinued. The kinetics of carbetamide degradation were determined in the same soil for three consecutive years (1994–96) after single annual applications from 1989 to 1992. The DT50 of carbetamide increased from 5.4 d in 1994 to 10.2 d in 1996. However, this was still less than the DT50 in previously untreated soil (23–44 d). A most probable number (MPN) assay demonstrated a link between carbetamide degradation rate and the numbers of micro‐organisms capable of carbetamide mineralization. Degradation of six other herbicides was assayed in the carbetamide‐pretreated and the previously untreated soils. Propham was the only herbicide which degraded more rapidly in the soil with a history of carbetamide application. Rapid degradation of chlorpropham, a herbicide structurally similar to carbetamide and propham, and propyzamide, a herbicide with similar mode of action and weed control spectrum, was not observed. The results suggest that enhanced biodegradation of carbetamide can be managed by less frequent carbetamide application as a part of a herbicide rotation involving compounds which are structurally dissimilar.
Effects of winter wheat cultivars and seed rate on the biological characteristics of naturally occurring weed flora
Authors: Korres N E , Froud‐Williams R J
Published: March 2003

Summary Differential competitive ability of six winter wheat cultivars and traits that confer such attributes were investigated for a range of seed rates in the presence or absence of weeds for a naturally occurring weed flora in two successive years in split‐plot field experiments. Crop height and tillering capacity were considered suitable attributes for weed suppression, although competitiveness is a relative rather than an absolute characteristic. Maris Huntsman and Maris Widgeon were the most competitive cultivars whereas Fresco was the least competitive. Manipulation of seed rate was a more reliable factor than cultivar selection for enhancement of weed suppression, although competitiveness of cultivars Buster, Riband and Maris Widgeon was not enhanced by increased seed rate. Crop densities ranging between 125 and 270 plants m−2 were found to offer adequate weed suppression. Linear relationships were observed between individual and total weed species dry weight and reproductive structures per unit area.
Malignant blue nevus of the scalp
Authors: Calista, MD Donato , Schianchi, MD Sandra , Landi, MD Christian
Published: March 2003

A 70‐year‐old woman had noticed, at the age of 30, a single blue nodule of about 1 cm in size on her scalp. The lesion remained stable until 1991, when it became larger and ulcerated and, because of the sudden onset of additional macules and nodules around it, the patient presented at our Dermatological Division in August 1992.

Physical examination showed a blue–black plaque, 2 × 2 cm in size, on the left parietal area of the scalp, surrounded by several blue–grey pigmented nodules and macules (Fig. 1). Chest X‐ray, abdomen scan, and a total body computed tomography (CT) scan were negative for metastatic disease. A wide resection of the scalp lesion was performed. The histologic evaluation revealed a dense collection of spindled melanocytes in the dermis and in the subcutaneous fat. Nuclear and cytoplasmic pleomorphism, some mitotic figures, and necrosis foci were present (Figs 2 and 3). Pictures of cellular blue nevus were found in the surrounding lesions. Ten months later, new blue macular and papular lesions appeared in proximity to the surgical scar. The patient refused any additional surgery, and so was treated with dacarbazine (DTIC) 800 mg intravenously (every 20 days) and 2α interferon (3 million units subcutaneously, three times weekly). The growth of the lesions slowed down for a few weeks, and then increased again to become a wide, blue–black vegetating mass (Fig. 4). In June 1995, a total body CT scan revealed multiple focal nodules on the lungs and two metastatic masses on the eighth segment of the liver. A palliative polychemotherapy, with vindesin 3 mg/m2 and DTIC 400 mg/m2, was started, but did not stop the progression of the disease, and the patient died in December 1996.
The epidemiologic trends of scabies among Israeli soldiers: a 28‐year follow‐up
Authors: Mimouni Daniel , Gdalevich Michael , Mimouni Francis B. , Haviv Jacob , Ashkenazi Isaac
Published: March 2003

Background Scabies is not a notifiable disease in most countries. Thus, the reported rates of the disease in large populations are usually inaccurate and based on estimations. Scabies is usually reported only when large outbreaks occur.

Objective This article describes the global epidemiology of scabies in the Israel Defense Force. The data used in this study are based on the routine and mandatory reporting of every individual case of scabies to the Army Health Branch Epidemiology Department since 1968.

Results There was a period of 13 years of quiescence from the implementation of reporting in 1968 until 1981. This period was followed by an epidemic of 15 years, peaking in 1985 and 1986, and returning to the baseline rates of the quiescent period by 1996. This prospectively observed pattern of at least 13 years of quiescence followed by a peak of 15 years is consistent with other, mostly retrospective, reports. Although the peak may have been triggered by the “Lebanon” war of 1982, it is noticeable that no peak was observed during the “Yom Kippur” war (1973).

Conclusions Prospective, mandatory reporting of the kind described here should help to better understand the epidemiology of scabies.
A comparison of the efficacy of oral fluconazole, 150 mg/week versus 50 mg/day, in the treatment of tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea pedis, and cutaneous candidosis
Authors: Nozickova Marie , Koudelkova Věra , Kulikova Zuzana , Malina L. , Urbanowski Slawomir , Silny Wojciech
Published: March 2003

Two hundred and forty five patients with dermatophytoses and cutaneous candidosis were enrolled in the study; 122 were randomized to the once‐weekly regimen and 123 to the once‐daily regimen. Subjects included both men and women; the average age was 42 years. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups with regard to age, sex, race, and body weight distributions.

In the group receiving once‐weekly fluconazole, there were 58 tinea pedis infections and 77 nonpedis infections (tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and cutaneous candidosis). In the group receiving once‐daily fluconazole, there were 56 tinea pedis infections and 76 nonpedis infections. The duration of infection and total score of signs and symptoms did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Patients received treatment until clinically cured or up to a maximum of 6 weeks for tinea pedis and 4 weeks for tinea corporis, tinea cruris, or cutaneous candidosis. Medical history, physical and laboratory examinations, and the clinical diagnosis were recorded. Clinical and mycologic examinations and laboratory testing were performed at baseline and 2 weeks after treatment initiation, and then weekly until clinically cured or the maximum duration of treatment allowed was reached. Safety analysis was performed for all patients. Follow‐up clinical and mycologic examinations were performed 1 month after the therapy ended.

The clinical efficacy was based on cure (disappearance of all baseline signs and symptoms of infection), marked improvement, moderate improvement, failure (no change or worsening of the signs and symptoms), or unevaluable (most commonly due to protocol evaluations or the absence of an identified pathogen). Mycologic efficacy was based on eradication (absence of pathogen on microscopy and/or culture), persistence (presence of pathogen on microscopy and/or culture), superinfection (absence of pathogen, but with a different fungal pathogen on microscopy and culture associated with clinical disease), or unevaluable. Long‐term follow‐up evaluation included the category relapse, defined as the absence of pathogen at the end of treatment, with the reappearance of that pathogen on microscopy and/or culture at follow‐up visit. The culture result determined the efficacy where discrepancies between microscopy and culture findings occurred.
The hyperkeratotic variant of disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP)
Authors: Jang Kyoung‐Ae , Choi Jee‐Ho , Sung Kyung‐Jeh , Moon Kee‐Chan , Koh Jai‐Kyoung
Published: March 2003

A 78‐year‐old South Korean man was referred to us from the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) for an opinion. He was comatose and was on ventilatory care due to aspiration pneumonia. Multiple tiny papules had developed 10 years previously and since then the number and size had been increasing gradually. He had been diabetic for the past 4 years, and had Parkinson’s disease diagnosed 1 year previously. Laboratory examinations revealed an elevated level of white blood cells (WBCs) (25,000/μL) and decreased hemoglobin (8.8 g/dL). Other laboratory results were negative or within normal limits.

Skin examination showed multiple, discrete, crust‐like, brownish papules over the erythematous base on the face, upper extremities, and lower extremities ( Fig. 1). With the clinical impressions of irritated verruca vulgaris, seborrheic keratosis, or cutaneous fungal infection, a skin biopsy was taken from a papule on the left shin, and histopathologic examination revealed several pronounced hyperkeratotic and parakeratotic columns, and characteristic cornoid lamellae in the stratum corneum (
Fig. 2). Beneath the cornoid lamellae, the granular layer was decreased. A number of round or oval, dyskeratotic, homogenized eosinophilic cells with pyknotic nuclei were scattered in the prickle cell layer below the cornoid lamellae (
Fig. 3). A mild lymphohistiocytic infiltrate was observed in the papillary dermis and around the blood vessels in the upper dermis. Also, actinic degeneration was present in the upper dermis.

Multiple, discrete, brownish papules with peripheral keratotic ridges on the left shin

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Several hyperkeratotic and parakeratotic columns in the stratum corneum (hematoxylin and eosin)[TAB]

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A number of round or oval dyskeratotic homogenized eosinophilic cells with pyknotic nuclei in the prickle cell layer below the cornoid lamellae (hematoxylin and eosin)[TAB]

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Discussion
Propionibacterium acnes: interaction with complement and development of an enzyme‐linked immunoassay for the detection of antibody
Authors: Burkhart Craig G. , Msph . , Cantrill John , Butcher Cynthia L. , Lehmann Paul F.
Published: March 2003

Objective To characterize the immune response to Propionibacterium acnes in acne patients.

Design Comparison of serologic responses in acne and normal patients using counterimmunoelectrophoresis for antibody and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody.

Setting The serum of acne and nonacne patients from the Dermatology Clinic at the Medical College of Ohio was utilized for analysis.

Results Using counterimmunoelectrophoresis, antibody was detected in 13 of 20 acne patients. The antigen was detectable as an anion in the barbital buffer at pH 8.2, strongly suggesting a carbohydrate component. By ELISA, the antibody proved to be IgG, and the bacteria and its water‐soluble fractions were capable of fixing complement.

Conclusions The primary instigator of inflammation in acne vulgaris is an immunologic reaction to extracellular products of P. acnes. The immunologic response involves both humoral and cell‐mediated pathways. The antibodies to P. acnes have not been characterized fully, although they are largely of the IgG class. We have further characterized the dominant antigen to have a carbohydrate component.
Weekly vs. fortnightly intralesional meglumine antimoniate in cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Mujtaba Ghulam , Mbbs . , Fcps . , Khalid Muhammad , Mbbs . , Fcps .
Published: March 2003

One hundred and four patients with a clinical diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and a positive Giemsa‐stained smear for the parasite were recruited after informed consent into this randomized clinical trial, comparing the efficacy of weekly vs. fortnightly intralesional injections of meglumine antimoniate. Patients having more than five lesions and pregnant women were not included.

The patients were randomly divided into two treatment groups. Patients in group A were treated with weekly and those in group B with fortnightly intralesional injections of meglumine antimoniate solution (each ampule of 5 mL containing 425 mg of the salt). A fine needle (0.40 × 13 mm) was used to inject the lesions. Each lesion was infiltrated from all sides until it had blanched. Generally, 1–2 mL of the solution was required for individual lesions depending upon their size. No adjuvant therapy was used.

In both groups, the treatment was continued until complete cure or up to 8 weeks, whichever was earlier. Patients were followed up fortnightly for 2 months after cessation of therapy for any recurrence. Laboratory investigations, including complete blood count, serum urea and creatinine, urinalysis, and liver function tests, were carried out before and after treatment.
Improvement in androgenetic alopecia in 53–76‐year‐old men using oral finasteride
Authors: Brenner Sarah , Matz Hagit
Published: March 2003

Twenty‐eight men with AGA, aged 53–76 years (mean, 65 years), were selected to participate in this trial from a double blind, placebo controlled, multicenter study of subjects with moderate symptoms of BPH. Patients received either finasteride 5 mg or placebo daily for 24 months. Hair counts were performed at entry to the study and at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Hair counts were made directly on the scalp in a circular target area 1 in in diameter, located in the center of a template. The template was applied in such a way that its counting window fell on the most balding scalp area, which remained the same for each patient. 11At each hair counting session, patients were asked about side‐effects and questioned about their sex life. Time trend and differences between groups were examined using a one‐way (treatment) MANOVA with repeated measures (baseline, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months). Additional two‐tailed t‐tests were performed to compare the two groups at each point of time. P <  0.05 was considered to be significant.