bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crimean‐Congo haemorrhagic fever: a seroepidemiological and tick survey in the Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Williams R. J. , Al‐Busaidy S. , Mehta F. R. , Maupin G. O. , Wagoner K. D. , Al‐Awaidy S. , Suleiman A. J. M. , Khan A. S. , Peters C. J. , Ksiazek T. G.
Published: March 2003

SummaryIn 1995 and 1996, 4 persons from the Sultanate of Oman were confirmed with clinical Crimean‐Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF). To assess the prevalence of CCHF virus infection in Oman, a convenience sample of imported and domestic animals from farms, abattoirs and livestock markets was examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to CCHF virus. Ticks were collected from selected animals, identified, pooled by species, host and location and tested for evidence of infection with CCHF virus by antigen‐capture ELISA. Serum samples from individuals working in animal and nonanimal contact‐related jobs were also tested for CCHF antibodies. Serological evidence of infection was noted in 108 (22%) of 489 animals. Most of the ticks collected (618 of 912) from all species of sampled livestock wereHyalomma anatolicum anatolicum, a competent vector and reservoir of CCHF virus. 243 tick pools were tested for CCHF antigen, and 19 pools were positive. Of the individuals working in animal contact‐related jobs, 73 (30.3%) of 241 non‐Omani citizens and only 1 (2.4%) of 41 Omani citizens were CCHF antibody‐positive. Butchers were more likely to have CCHF antibody than persons in other job categories. The presence of clinical disease and the serological results for animals and humans and infectedHyalommaticks provide ample evidence of the presence of CCHF virus in yet another country in the Arabian Peninsula.
Training health workers to assess anaemia with the WHO haemoglobin colour scale
Authors: Gosling Roly , Walraven Gijs , Manneh Fandinding , Bailey Robin , Lewis S. Mitchell
Published: March 2003

Summary WHO recommends that all pregnant women be screened for anaemia. In rural Africa this is often done by clinical examination which is known to have variable reliability. The recently developed WHO Haemoglobin Colour Scale may be the answer to this problem as it is simple and reliable. This study examines the training procedure recommended by WHO for the Haemoglobin Colour Scale when resources are very limited. We trained 7 laboratory technicians from the Medical Research Council Laboratories Hospital, Fajara, The Gambia and 13 Community Health Nurses (CHNs) from North Bank Division East, a rural area in The Gambia, to use the Colour Scale. The CHNs used the Scale to estimate haemoglobins on all new bookings to the antenatal clinics for a period of one month and recorded how they were managed. At the end of the study period they completed a qualitative questionnaire about the scale. Both groups of trainees were successfully trained although the WHO protocol for training was impossible to follow due to resource limitations. Eight of the 13 trained CHNs used the scale in practice and recorded 307 estimations with a mean haemoglobin of 9.1 g/dl. The results were normally distributed. Six of the 9 patients with Hb readings of < 4 g/dl were managed correctly. In response to the questionnaire the CHNs thought the scale was cheap, easy and quick to use and as good as the haemoglobinometer they had used previously. The main criticism was that it was not robust enough. The development of a low‐technology, cheap, simple and reliable method for measuring haemoglobin is a welcome development. However, a simpler training procedure and a standard way of measuring observer performance are necessary.
The immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis used in a non‐endemic area
Authors: Tarp Britta , Black Finn Trunk , Petersen Eskild
Published: March 2003

Summary OBJECTIVES  To evaluate an immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for diagnosis of schistosomiasis in nonimmune travellers and immigrants from endemic areas.

METHODS  65 patients (48 Danes and 17 immigrants) with schistosomiasis were included. The diagnosis of schistosomiasis was based on the presence of schistosome eggs in faeces, urine, sperm, rectal or bladder biopsies and/or the presence of specific antibodies determined by the serological immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). Egg excretion was detected using conventional methods and the IFAT performed on whole S. mansoni schistosomula worms, harvested after 8 weeks from mice. Two patterns of immunofluorescence were observed: Fluorescence in the gut of the schistosome called ‘Gut Associated Antigen, GAA’, and fluorescence of the surface of the schistosomula called ‘Membrane Bound Antigen, MBA’.

RESULTS  Eggs were found in 44% of the Danish patients and in 76% of immigrants. The diagnosis was based on a positive IFAT in 48% of the patients. In patients from nonendemic areas, the finding of antibodies against GAA was diagnostic while optimal sensitivity in the immigrants was reached by measuring antibodies against both GAA and MBA.

CONCLUSION  In patients from nonendemic areas GAA is a sensitive marker of acute infection with schistosomiasis. In patients from endemic areas the demonstration of both GAA and MBA is necessary to properly identify long‐lasting, nonacute infections. Egg‐detection and/or measurement of CAA and CCA remain the methods of choice to monitor treatment as the immunofluorescence assay may remain positive for several years after treatment.
Season of birth is not associated with delayed childhood mortality in Upper River Division, The Gambia
Authors: Jaffar Shabbar , Leach Amanda , Greenwood Alice , Greenwood Brian
Published: March 2003

Summary There is evidence that season of birth may predict adult mortality from infectious diseases in rural Gambia. Using data collected over a five‐year period from the rural, eastern region of the Gambia, we examined whether the season of birth influences mortality in childhood. 26 894 births and 3776 deaths among children under the age of five years were recorded in this region during the period 1989–1993. The estimated 1–4 year population was 95 355. In children aged 1–4 years, the mortality rate per 1000 per year was 16.1 (95% CI 14.9, 17.2) for those born in the ‘harvest’ season (January to June), which was not significantly different from the rate of 17.9 (95% CI 16.7, 19.0) recorded for those born in the ‘hungry’ season (July to December) (age‐stratified Mantel–Haenszel mortality ratio 0.91, 95% CI 0.83, 1.01; p= 0.08). Nearly all deaths of 1–4 year olds were attributed to infectious diseases, with malaria accounting for over 40%. None of the cause‐specific child mortality rates differed significantly according to the season of birth. These data suggest that beyond infancy, when it is easier to separate the effect of season on cause of death from that of the season of birth, there is no marked difference in the rate of death between Gambian children born in the harvest season and those born in the hungry season.
Health seeking and perceived causes of tuberculosis among patients in Manila, Philippines
Authors: Auer Christian , Sarol Jesus , Tanner Marcel , Weiss Mitchell
Published: March 2003

Summary Inefficient case finding is an important stumbling block to successful control of tuberculosis (TB). Multiple health seeking may account for delayed case finding. Health‐seeking behaviour, health seeking delay, perceived causes, and perceived quality of care related to TB were studied in interviews with 319 sputum smear‐positive TB patients. The patients were treated in 22 governmental health centres of Malabon, a municipality of Metro Manila, Philippines. Only 29% of the respondents had gone first to a health centre after onset of TB‐related symptoms, and more than half (53%) had initially consulted a private doctor. A chest X‐ray was obtained for nearly everyone (97%). Two thirds of the patients (66%) had received a prescription for drugs, and 29% had purchased and taken anti‐TB drugs for at least three weeks before they came to a governmental health centre. Concerning community interactions, 36% said they knew at least one person who had been treated for TB without success. The health seeking delay after symptom onset was relatively short – 64% of the respondents said they went to a health facility within 1 month. Case studies illustrate the rationale for health seeking and explain delayed initiation of appropriate treatment for many patients. Findings underscore the need for and indicate approaches to health communication for improved control of TB. Our findings from interview narratives also suggest that improved interpersonal skills of health centre staff and co‐ordination between the private doctors and the health centres may substantially improve services for TB patients.
Human antibody response to a 56‐kDa purified excretory/ secretory product of Dirofilaria immitis
Authors: Vieira C. , Montoya M. , Agudelo S. , Velez I. D. , Simón F.
Published: March 2003

Summary Canine dirofilariasis is widespread in urban areas of central and northern Colombia. Previously we detected specific antibodies against complex antigens from Dirofilaria immitis adult worms in individuals from an isolated Tikuna Indian community in the Colombian Amazon. In this study a 56 kDa polypeptide from the adult D. immitis excretory/secretory (E/S) products is identified by Western blot, isolated by elution from polyacrilamide gels and applied in an ELISA‐based test for the detection of specific IgG. Eleven of 74 serum samples analysed were positive by ELISADi56. Positive individuals came from five different areas of Colombia. The highest number of positives was found in the Amazon (4), followed by Bogotà (3). The physicians of the area must be alerted regarding the existence of human D. immitis infections and include dirofilariasis in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary nodules.
Sleeping sickness resurgence in the DRC: the past decade
Authors: Van Nieuwenhove Simon , Betu‐Ku‐Mesu Victor Kande , Diabakana Philemon Mansinsa , Declercq Johan , Bilenge Constantin Miaka Mia
Published: March 2003

An overview of the evolution of sleeping sickness and control activities in the DRC during the period 1989–1998 is presented. A resurgence was already developing in the mid‐1980s and, after a breakdown of active case‐finding between 1990 and 1993, annual detection rates attained levels similar to those of the late 1920s. Although a staggering number of 150 591 new cases have been detected during the past decade, the problem is ignored by most of the international community. The major cause for the resurgence appears to be the interruption of active case‐finding for a prolonged period of time. Control activities have improved considerably in recent years, but a lot remains to be done and supplementary resources are needed.
Population structure of Plasmodium falciparum isolates during an epidemic in southern Mauritania
Authors: Jordan S. , Jelinek T. , Aida A. O. , Peyerl‐Hoffmann G. , Heuschkel C. , El Valy A. O. , Christophel E. M.
Published: March 2003

While the population structure of Plasmodium falciparum is well analysed in selected areas with high malaria endemicity in East and West Africa, only limited data are available for low endemicity regions bordering the Saharan desert. This is one of the first studies for the Sahel, where atypically strong rainfalls in 1998 and 1999 led to a severe outbreak of falciparum malaria in south‐east Mauritania. During a study on in vivo‐drug resistance against chloroquine we collected blood samples of patients with fever in two medical centres located in non‐endemic and hypoendemic areas. We analysed 386 samples by polymerase chain reaction for infection with P. falciparum, and 173 (45%) tested positive. The isolates were genotyped for three polymorphic genetic markers: merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1), MSP2 and glutamate‐rich protein (GLURP). Differences between the two regions could be shown in either number of clones per infection or in their distribution on the different allelic groups. While the mean minimal number of clones in the non‐endemic region around Aioun was 1.57, blood samples collected in the hypoendemic region around Kobeni showed multiple infections with an average of 2.34 clones (P < 0.001). In addition, clear differences between endemic regions were apparent in three of the investigated allelic groups: RO33 of the MSP1 gene and FC and Indochina of the MSP2 gene.
Taking a medical history and using a colour scale during clinical examination of pallor improves detection of anaemia
Authors: Chowdhury Mahbub‐E‐Elahi K. , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Geater Alan F. , Akhter Halida H. , Winn Than
Published: March 2003

We developed a colour tint scale to use as an aid in the clinical assessment of anaemia by measuring conjunctival pallor. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the accuracy and agreement among observers in detecting anaemia in three sequential phases with incremental information using clinical pallor of different anatomical sites, subsequently adding subjects' medical history for physical symptoms and the colour scale. After training in the application of these three sequential assessments, 12 primary health workers were assigned to independently examine 198 anaemic and 254 non‐anaemic pregnant women while blind to the true anaemic status. Their assessments in each phase were then compared with the anaemic status based on haemoglobin level, measured using HemoCue, taken as the gold standard, to determine sensitivity and specificity, and agreements among observers in detecting anaemia were calculated. In the three sequential phases of assessment the sensitivities were 73.8, 78.3, 82.9% and specificities 76.0, 84.7 and 90.9%, respectively. In each subsequent step, the improvements in both the sensitivity and specificity were statistically significant [P(χ2McNemar) < 0.01]. Kappa statistics for agreement among 12 observers for assessing anaemia in the sequential phases were 0.50, 0.71 and 0.82, respectively. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient between haemoglobin level and the colour scale reading was 0.68 (P < 0.001). Taking medical history and incorporating a simple colour tint scale with examination of pallor improved the sensitivity, specificity and agreement for detection of anaemia by health workers.
Treatment of Brugia timori and Wuchereria bancrofti infections in Indonesia using DEC or a combination of DEC and albendazole: adverse reactions and short‐term effects on microfilariae
Authors: Supali Taniawati , Ismid Is Suhariah , Rückert Paul , Fischer Peter
Published: March 2003

Filariasis caused by Brugia timori and Wuchereria bancrofti is an important public health problem on Alor island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. To implement a control programme, adverse reactions and short‐term effects on the microfilaria (mf) density were studied following a divided dose of diethylcarbamazine (DEC, 6 mg/kg body weight – 100 mg on day 1 and the rest on day 3) or a single dose of DEC (6 mg/kg body weight on day 3) and albendazole (Alb, 400 mg). In order to define the most appropriate regimen, 30 persons infected with B. timori were treated in the hospital and results were compared with those obtained from the treatment of 27 persons infected with W. bancrofti. Adverse reactions consisted of systemic reactions such as fever, headache, myalgia, itching and local reactions such as adenolymphangitis. Fever experienced by a number of patients in both treatment groups generally occurred 12–24 h after drug administration and lasted up to 2 days. Adenolymphangitis tended to occur later and was resolved within 4 days. The number of W. bancrofti patients suffering from adverse reactions was lower and the reactions were milder than those of the B. timori patients. There was no difference in adverse reactions between DEC alone and DEC–Alb treatment for either infection. The geometric mean mf count decreased on day 7 in the B. timori infected patients from 234 mf/ml in the DEC group and from 257 mf/ml in the DEC–Alb group to 7 and 8 mf/ml, respectively. The mf densities of the W. bancrofti infected patients decreased on day 7 from 214 mf/ml in the DEC group and from 559 mf/ml in the DEC–Alb group to 15 and 14 mf/ml, respectively. Our data indicate that the microfilaricidal effect of the drugs is achieved more rapidly for B. timori, which is associated with more adverse reactions than W. bancrofti. In addition, 111 B. timori infected persons were treated in the community with DEC–Alb in one selected village. The adverse reactions and the reduction of mf density was similar to the findings of the hospital‐based study. In this group, there was a strong correlation of mf density with the frequency and severity of adverse reactions. The addition of Alb resulted in no additional adverse reactions compared with DEC treatment alone and can also be used for the treatment of B. timori infection. In Indonesia, where the prevalence of intestinal helminths is high, the use of a combination of DEC and Alb to control lymphatic filariasis may also have impact on the control of intestinal helminths.
Forecasting malaria incidence from historical morbidity patterns in epidemic‐prone areas of Ethiopia: a simple seasonal adjustment method performs best
Authors: Abeku Tarekegn A. , De Vlas Sake J. , Borsboom Gerard , Teklehaimanot Awash , Kebede Asnakew , Olana Dereje , Van Oortmarssen Gerrit J. , Habbema J. D. F.
Published: March 2003

The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of different methods of forecasting malaria incidence from historical morbidity patterns in areas with unstable transmission. We tested five methods using incidence data reported from health facilities in 20 areas in central and north‐western Ethiopia. The accuracy of each method was determined by calculating errors resulting from the difference between observed incidence and corresponding forecasts obtained for prediction intervals of up to 12 months. Simple seasonal adjustment methods outperformed a statistically more advanced autoregressive integrated moving average method. In particular, a seasonal adjustment method that uses mean deviation of the last three observations from expected seasonal values consistently produced the best forecasts. Using 3 years' observation to generate forecasts with this method gave lower errors than shorter or longer periods. Incidence during the rainy months of June–August was the most predictable with this method. Forecasts for the normally dry months, particularly December–February, were less accurate. The study shows the limitations of forecasting incidence from historical morbidity patterns alone, and indicates the need for improved epidemic early warning by incorporating external predictors such as meteorological factors.
Prevention of malaria in Afghanistan through social marketing of insecticide‐treated nets: evaluation of coverage and effectiveness by cross‐sectional surveys and passive surveillance
Authors: Rowland Mark , Webster Jayne , Saleh Padshah , Chandramohan Daniel , Freeman Tim , Pearcy Barbara , Durrani Naeem , Rab Abdur , Mohammed Nasir
Published: March 2003

Malaria is often a major health problem in countries undergoing war or conflict owing to breakdown of health systems, displacement of vulnerable populations, and the increased risk of epidemics. After 23 years of conflict, malaria has become prevalent in many rural areas of Afghanistan. From 1993 to the present, a network of non‐governmental organizations, co‐ordinated by HealthNet International, has operated a programme of bednet sales and re‐treatment in lowland areas. To examine whether a strategy based on insecticide‐treated nets (ITN) is a viable public health solution to malaria, communities were given the opportunity to buy nets and then monitored to determine population coverage and disease control impact. This was carried out using two contrasting methods: cross‐sectional surveys and passive surveillance from clinics using a case–control design. Nets were purchased by 59% of families. Cross‐sectional surveys demonstrated a 59% reduction in the risk of Plasmodium falciparum infection among ITN users compared with non‐users (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.25–0.66). The passive surveillance method showed a comparable reduction in the risk of symptomatic P. falciparum malaria among ITN users (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.21–0.47). The cross‐sectional method showed a 50% reduction in risk of P. vivax infection in ITN users compared with non‐users (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.17–1.49) but this effect was not statistically significant. The passive surveillance method showed a 25% reduction in the risk of symptomatic P. vivax malaria (OR 0.75; 95% CI 0.66–0.85). ITN appeared to be less effective against P. vivax because of relapsing infections; hence an effect took more than one season to become apparent. Passive surveillance was cheaper to perform and gave results consistent with cross‐sectional surveys. Untreated nets provided some protection. Data on socioeconomic status, a potential confounding factor, was not collected. However, at the time of net sales, there was no difference in malaria prevalence between buyers and non‐buyers. The abundance of Anopheles stephensi, the main vector, did not appear to be affected by ITN. ITN constitute one of the few feasible options for protection against malaria in chronic emergencies.
Short communication: A cluster of Marburg virus disease involving an infant*
Authors: Borchert Matthias , Muyembe‐Tamfum Jean Jacques , Colebunders Robert , Libande Modeste , Sabue Mulangu , Van der Stuyft Patrick
Published: March 2003

A noteworthy cluster of six cases of Marburg haemorrhagic fever (MHF) was identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo. One of the cases is the first infant Marburg fever patient ever documented. Three of six cases presented surprisingly mild symptoms. The results of epidemiological and virological investigations are compatible with person‐to‐person transmission through body fluids and with mother‐to‐child transmission while nurturing. The findings show that mild cases of MHF have to be expected during an outbreak and point out the difficulty to base patient management decisions on clinical case definitions alone.
HIV‐1 epidemic trends in rural south‐west Uganda over a 10‐year period
Authors: Whitworth J. A. G. , Mahe C. , Mbulaiteye S. M. , Nakiyingi J. , Ruberantwari A. , Ojwiya A. , Kamali A.
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to examine the epidemic trends of HIV‐1 infection in a rural population cohort in Uganda followed for 10 years. The methods used were to assess incidence and prevalence trends in adults in this longitudinal cohort study. The results showed that incidence of infection has fallen significantly in all adults, and separately in males, females, young adults and older adults over the course of the study period. There was also a reduction in prevalence, especially in young men and women. There was some evidence of a cohort effect in women. The conclusions are that this study provides the first evidence of a falling incidence in a rural general population in Africa. This was an observational cohort exposed to national health education messages, giving hope that similar campaigns elsewhere in Africa could be used effectively in efforts to control the HIV epidemic.
Increasing antimalarial drug resistance in Uganda and revision of the national drug policy
Authors: Kamya M. R. , Bakyaita N. N. , Talisuna A. O. , Were W. M. , Staedke S. G.
Published: March 2003

Chloroquine (CQ) resistance was first documented in Uganda in 1988. Subsequent surveillance of antimalarial drug resistance, conducted by the Ugandan Ministry of Health and several research organizations, suggests that resistance to CQ is now widespread, reaching critical levels in many areas of the country. In June 2000, the Ministry of Health held a National Consensus Meeting to evaluate the available drug efficacy data and review the national antimalarial drug policy. After extensive debate, the combination of CQ + sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine (SP) was chosen to replace CQ as the first‐line treatment of uncomplicated malaria as an interim policy. This review evaluates the in vivo drug efficacy studies conducted in Uganda since 1988 and issues confronted in revision of the drug policy. The Ugandan experience illustrates the challenges faced by sub‐Saharan African countries confronted with rising CQ resistance but limited data on potential alternative options. The choice of CQ + SP as a provisional policy in the absence of prerequisite efficacy, safety and cost‐effectiveness data reflects the urgency of the malaria treatment problem, and growing pressure to adopt combination therapies. Surveillance of CQ + SP treatment efficacy, collection of additional data on alternative regimens and active consensus building among key partners in the malaria community will be necessary to develop a rational long‐term antimalarial treatment policy in Uganda.
Malaria control: constraints and opportunities
Authors: Kager P. A.
Published: March 2003

The malaria eradication campaign of the 1950s and 1960s achieved elimination of malaria from the industrialized world and drastic reduction of malaria elsewhere, especially Asia. In Africa, eradication was hardly attempted. For various reasons, results could not be maintained. Eradication had to be given up, control became the policy. Since 1992 malaria control is based on four principles: early diagnosis and treatment; selective and sustainable preventive measures, including vector control; detection, containment and prevention of epidemics, and building up of local capacity. Several constraints with the presently available tools are discussed. Major problems are drug resistance and poor performance of the health sector. International awareness of the problem and international co‐operation, the financial resources now available and scientific advances offer opportunities for a concerted effort to reduce the burden of malaria. Operational research, field research and implementation and improvement of the peripheral health service will be of paramount importance.
Seizure disorders among relatives of Kenyan children with severe falciparum malaria
Authors: Versteeg A. C. , Carter J. A. , Dzombo J. , Neville B. G. , Newton C. R. J. C.
Published: March 2003

purpose  The cause of seizures in children with falciparum malaria is unclear. In malaria endemic areas, children who develop severe falciparum malaria with seizures may have a genetically higher risk of epilepsy or febrile seizures. We used the history of seizures in relatives of children previously admitted with malaria to determine if there is evidence for a familial predisposition of seizures in children admitted with malaria and seizures or cerebral malaria.

methods  Family history of seizures were obtained from the parents/guardians of 81 children (35 children previously admitted with severe malaria and 46 children matched for age who had not been admitted with severe malaria). Data were collected on frequency, duration, age of onset, presence of fever and causes of seizures.

results  The prevalence of seizures in the relatives of children not admitted with severe malaria was 4.3%, of whom 2.2% had a history of seizures compatible with febrile seizures, and 1.1% with epilepsy. Overall the odds ratio (OR) for relations of children admitted with malaria, to have a seizure disorder was 1.41 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–1.88]. There was a significant risk of the relatives dying if they had epilepsy [relative risk 1.88 (95% CI 1.11–3.19)], but not for other seizure disorders (i.e. febrile, single or unclassifiable seizures).

conclusion  Relatives of children admitted with severe falciparum malaria are more likely to have a seizure disorder compared with controls, but it is unclear if this is because of a genetic propensity or caused by exogenous factors such as malaria.
Health and nutritional status of orphans <6 years old cared for by relatives in western Kenya
Authors: Lindblade Kim A. , Odhiambo Frank , Rosen Daniel H. , DeCock Kevin M.
Published: March 2003

One of the consequences of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in sub‐Saharan Africa is the increase in the number of orphans, estimated to have reached 6–11% of children <15 years old in 2000. Orphans who stay in their communities may be at increased risk for poor health due to reduced circumstances and loss of parental care. We have used data from a population‐based study in rural western Kenya to compare basic health and nutritional indicators between non‐orphaned children <6 years old and children who lost either or both of their parents. In June 2000, all children <6 years old who had been recruited for a cross‐sectional survey in 60 villages of Rarieda Division, western Kenya, in June 1999 were invited to return for a follow‐up survey. Basic demographic characteristics, including the vital status of the child's parents, and health histories were requested from all 1190 participants of the follow‐up survey, along with a finger‐prick blood sample for determination of malaria parasite status and haemoglobin (Hb) levels. Height‐for‐age (H/A) and weight‐for‐height (W/H) Z‐scores were also calculated from anthropometric measurements. Overall, 7.9% of the children had lost one or both their parents (6.4% had lost their father, 0.8% had lost their mother and 0.7% had lost both parents). While there was no difference between orphans and non‐orphans regarding most of the key health indicators (prevalence of fever and malaria parasitaemia, history of illness, Hb levels, H/A Z scores), W/H Z‐scores in orphans were almost 0.3 standard deviations lower than those of non‐orphans. This association was more pronounced among paternal orphans and those who had lost a parent more than 1 year ago. These results suggest that the health status of surviving orphans living in their community is similar to that of the non‐orphan population, but longitudinal cohort studies should be conducted to determine better the overall impact of orphanhood on child health.
Evaluation of serum allergen‐specific IgE for the diagnosis of food adverse reactions in the dog
Authors: Mueller  , Tsohalis
Published: March 2003

A new monoclonal enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA; CMG IMMUNODOT, Fribourg, Switzerland) measuring food antigen‐specific serum IgE was used in an attempt to investigate food allergen‐specific IgE in dogs. The serum of eight dogs with clinically proven adverse reactions to specific proteins was tested for beef, cow’s milk, pork, lamb, hen’s egg, soybean, fish mix (cod/sole), peanut, maize and wheat flour. The control group consisted of three healthy dogs, three dogs with nonallergic skin disease, two dogs with atopy, a cat and a horse. Only three mild positive reactions to beef, lamb and peanut, respectively, were found in this study; the sera were from two control dogs with the clinical diagnosis of dermatophytosis and atopy. None of the animals with confirmed food adverse reactions showed positive reactions. This study indicates that the diagnosis of food adverse reactions in the dog by measuring allergen‐specific IgE with the used mononuclear ELISA is unreliable.
Demodex cati infestation in association with feline cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ: a report of five cases
Authors: GuaguÈre  , Olivry  , Delverdier‐Poujade  , Denerolle  , PagÈs  , Magnol
Published: March 2003

Demodex cati infestation was identified at lesional sites of multicentric squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen’s disease) in five elderly domestic shorthaired cats. Lesions were observed on the face, neck, shoulders, stifles and limbs. Deep skin scrapings taken from lesional skin contained D. cati eggs, larvae and adults in four cases. D. cati were discovered histologically in four cases. Histopathology of skin biopsy specimens confirmed the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma in situ in all cases. Serology for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) was positive in three cats. Remission of Bowen’s disease lesions was obtained in 4–6 months using oral retinoids etretinate (one case) or acitretin (one case). It is suspected that local immunodeficiency due to epithelial dysplasia might have predisposed the skin to a focal multiplication of D. cati. Alternatively, FIV infection may have led to immune suppression predisposing the cats to both papillomavirus‐induced epithelial dysplasia and D. cati infestation.
An analysis of factors underlying hypotrichosis and alopecia in Irish Water Spaniels in the United Kingdom
Authors: Cerundolo Rosario , Lloyd David H. , Mcneil Pauline E. , Evans Helen
Published: March 2003

A survey on the occurrence of dermatoses in the Irish Water spaniel (IWS) was carried out in the United Kingdom. A group of 20 dogs was selected and examined clinically. All dogs had a nonpruritic, noninflammatory, regionalized hair loss affecting the same areas of the body in males and females, although an initial cyclical pattern associated with the oestrus cycle was identified. Hormonal investigations showed features suggestive of an abnormality of steroidogenesis. Histopathology revealed features similar to canine recurrent flank alopecia (CRFA) and follicular dysplasia associated with abnormal melanization, as in colour dilution alopecia, although the clinical features did not correlate with those conditions. Dietary changes improved coat and skin quality in most of the cases in this series but the role of the diet was not investigated further. This study suggests that hair loss in IWS is influenced by dietary factors and sexual hormones. Abnormalities of the steroidogenic pathways may contribute to the severity of the condition.
Effects of in utero retinoic acid exposure on mouse pelage hair follicle development
Authors: García‐Fernández Rosa A. , Pérez‐Martínez Claudia , Escudero‐Diez Alfredo , García‐Iglesias Maria J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract We investigated in vivo the histological and immunohistochemical responses of mouse hair pelage follicle morphogenesis to prenatal exposure to a potentially nonteratogenic dose of all‐trans‐retinoic acid (RA), as a basis studying the preventive effect of RA on adult mouse skin carcinogenesis. In pregnant mice, a single oral dose of RA at 30 mg kg−1 body weight given on day 11.5 of gestation caused no RA‐induced changes in the morphology or temporal expression patterns of keratins during pelage hair follicle morphogenesis. The only differential effect of RA was a statistically significant increase in the number of BrdU‐positive nuclei in hair bulbs from RA exposed fetuses compared with nonexposed mice. The absence of adverse RA effects suggests that this experimental design may represent a valuable protocol for use in studies on the in vivo effects of this retinoid on different skin diseases.
Plasma amino acid concentrations in 36 dogs with histologically confirmed superficial necrolytic dermatitis
Authors: Outerbridge Catherine A. , Marks Stanley L. , Rogers Quinton R.
Published: March 2003

AbstractPlasma amino acid concentrations were measured in 36 dogs diagnosed with superficial necrolytic dermatitis (SND) via skin biopsy. The median age of the dogs was 10 years, and 27 out of 36 (75%) were male. Twenty‐two out of 36 (61%) of the dogs were accounted for by six breeds; West Highland white terriers (six), Shetland sheepdogs (five), cocker spaniels (four), Scottish terriers (three), Lhasa apsos (two) and Border collies (two). The mean concentration (± standard deviation) was calculated for each measured plasma amino acid and compared to previously documented concentrations of plasma amino acids measured in dogs with acute and chronic hepatitis. The ratio of branched chain amino acids to aromatic amino acids in the dogs with SND was 2.6, slightly lower than that in normal dogs. The mean plasma amino acid concentrations for dogs with SND were significantly lower than for dogs with acute and chronic hepatitis. A metabolic hepatopathy in which there is increased hepatic catabolism of amino acids is hypothesized to explain the hypoaminoacidaemia seen in SND.
Demographics and clinical picture of nonseasonal canine atopic dermatitis – observations in 63 dogs
Authors: Bergvall K. E. , Saevik B. K. , Saijonmaa‐Koulumies L. , Holm B. , Holm L. , Hedhammar A. , Kristensen F.
Published: March 2003

The objectives of this multicentre study were to describe demographics and clinical findings of a group of 63 dogs with nonseasonal atopic dermatitis (AD), where concurrent flea allergy dermatitis, ectoparasite infestation, food adverse reactions and secondary infections had been ruled out. The breed, sex, age of onset, distribution of skin lesions, prevalence of otitis externa, secondary skin infections and additional noncutaneous clinical signs were recorded. A veterinarian recorded skin lesions from 15 different body regions. Each body region was scored according to degree of erythema, alopecia, excoriations, scale, crusts, lichenification and hyperpigmentation that was present. An early age of onset (37% of the dogs being less than 1 year old) was more common in this group of dogs than described in the literature. The German shepherd breed was over‐represented (21% as compared with 7–9.9% of the veterinary clinic population) and approximately half of the German shepherd dogs (46%) started showing clinical signs before 1 year of age. Erythema was the overall most common type of skin lesion, with facial erythema and conjunctivitis being less commonly reported than in other studies. Feet, ears and groin were the most common sites for skin lesions. This study indicates that it is not uncommon for dogs with nonseasonal AD to have the onset of clinical signs start at a younger age (less than 1 year of age) and have clinical lesions that vary from previously published reports. This discrepancy might be allergen‐dependent or breed‐related.

 The study was funded by Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Denmark.
Evaluation of canine ACTH stimulation test with direct enzyme immunoassay for serum cortisol in Taiwan
Authors: Su B. , Chen C. M. , Guo I. C. , Chen C.
Published: March 2003

In this study, we evaluated cortisol concentrations from 53 healthy dogs in response to ACTH stimulation test. The concentrations of serum cortisol were directly determined by a competitive enzyme immunoassay (EIA) with a 104‐fold diluted self‐made monoclonal antibody. The sensitivity of EIA was 0.1 ng mL−1 with intra‐assay and interassay coefficients of variation of 8.28 ± 0.09 and 14.60 ± 0.28%, respectively. The recovery rates for 1, 5 and 10 ng mL−1 of cortisol in dog serum were 77.8–128.7% with direct detection. The parallelism test revealed its reliability to detect directly the cortisol concentration in canine serum without extraction. In general, this EIA showed low crossreactivities with a variety of steroids. In the ACTH stimulation tests, we gave each dog 250 µg ACTH (Cortrosyn® Organon) intramuscularly and collected blood samples before and 1 h after administration of ACTH. The cortisol concentrations from 53 healthy dogs were 0.85–14.63 ng mL−1 pre‐ and 3.06–37.22 ng mL−1 post‐test, respectively. Sex and age did not significantly affect the cortisol concentrations in response to ACTH stimulation, but the large breeds (body weight > 25 kg; most of them were German shepherd dogs) showed lower cortisol responses than the smaller breeds. Thus, the results of this test suggested that body weight and breed might play an important role in adrenal dynamic tests.
Chronic moderate heat dermatitis (erythema ab igne) in five dogs, three cats and one silvered langur
Authors: Walder Emily J. , Hargis Ann M.
Published: March 2003

Abstract Erythema ab igne, an old and rare disease in the human literature, is an erythematous, often pigmented, reticular, macular dermatosis that occurs at the site of repeated exposure to moderate heat. We identified lesions consistent with erythema ab igne in five dogs, three cats and one silvered langur (Trachypithecus cristatus{Raffles, 1821}). In dogs and cats, the cutaneous lesion distribution typically reflected chronic exposure to moderate heat during lateral or sternal recumbency. The silvered langur developed cutaneous lesions on the dorsal neck from exposure to a heat lamp. Principal clinical lesions consisted of irregular areas of alopecia (7/9) and erythema (7/9), sometimes with hyperpigmentation (3/9). Principal histological features consisted of karyomegaly (9/9) and keratinocyte atypia (4/9), scattered apoptotic or vacuolated basal cells and/or apoptotic keratinocytes (6/9), mild mixed mononuclear interstitial or interface dermatitis (9/9) with adnexal atrophy (8/9), and a variable number of wavy eosinophilic elastic fibres (9/9). The presence of these cutaneous lesions in an animal indicates that the environment should be evaluated for exposure to chronic moderate heat, and the heat source should be eliminated or modified to prevent further exposure and progression of lesions.
Effect of residue management and fallow length on weeds and rice yield
Authors: RODER  , KEOBOULAPHA  , PHENGCHANH  , PROT  , MATIAS
Published: March 2003

Reduced fallow length in slash‐and‐burn rice (Oryza sativa L.) production systems of northern Laos increased weed pressure, labour requirement and the need for soil and moisture conservation. On‐farm and on‐station studies and on‐farm surveys were used to evaluate the effect of residue management and cropping intensity on weed population, rice yield and nematode density. Residue loads were 2.3–4.4 t ha−1 after a rice crop and 9.5 t ha−1 after 1 year of fallow. Compared with farmers' traditional burning of crop and weed residues, mulching reduced rice yield by 43% in one out of four comparisons and increased weed biomass by 19–100%. Compared with continuous rice treatments (averaged over burning and mulching treatments), treatments with fallow or cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] in the previous year had 32% less herbaceous weed biomass, 90% fewer Ageratum conyzoides L. and over 99% fewer Meloidogyne graminicola Golden & Birchfield. Rice yield was negatively associated with A. conyzoides density (−0.62, P < 0.01) and M. graminicola number (−0.42, P < 0.05). Less striking effects of fallow period on A. conyzoides and M. graminicola, observed from on‐farm surveys, demonstrate the limitations of on‐farm studies because of undocumented effects of farmers' management decisions.
Seasonal and site variability in the tolerance of wheat cultivars to interference from Lolium rigidum
Authors: COUSENS  , MOKHTARI
Published: March 2003

The ability of crop cultivars to maintain yield in the presence of weeds was examined at a number of locations and in successive years. It was found that the magnitude of yield advantages from particular cultivars differed considerably between years and locations. Moreover, there was little correlation between competitiveness at different sites within a year or in different years within a location. Only one cultivar out of 17 in the Western Australian experiments was consistently a good competitor; two cultivars were consistently poor. The former may be of use in breeding for competitiveness, whereas the latter should clearly be avoided in weedy situations. Several cultivars were among the most tolerant at three sites but competed poorly at any one site. It is argued that this makes the provision of advice for farmers difficult. More attention needs to be given to agronomic ways of making a given cultivar more competitive.
Sulcotrione soil persistence and mobility in summer maize and winter wheat crops
Authors: ROUCHAUD  , NEUS  , CALLENS  , BULCKE
Published: March 2003

Sulcotrione soil persistence in spring maize (Zea mays L.) crops grown on a sandy loam soil was greater at pH 5·5 and 6·0 (soil half‐life T1/2≈58 days) than at pH 7·1 (T1/2 = 44 days). Sulcotrione was also applied as recommended on a summer maize crop at the five‐ to six‐leaf growth stage, grown on a sandy loam soil. Sulcotrione soil half‐life was 44 days, and the herbicide remained mainly in the 0‐ to 5‐cm surface soil layer during the cropping period, in spite of the high water solubility and the heavy rains at the end of August; lower sulcotrione concentrations (10–18% of the total during the 2‐month period after sulcotrione application) were detected in the 5‐ to 10‐cm surface soil layer. The herbicide was applied pre‐emergence to winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at four sites that differed in their soil texture and composition: loamy sand, sandy loam, loam and clay loam. Persistence was greater in the soils containing more organic matter. In soils having similar organic matter contents, persistence was lower in the soil containing more sand relative to loam and clay. During the winter crops, sulcotrione moved down to the 10‐ to 15‐cm soil layer, in spite of the fact that the rains were lower in winter than in summer. Sulcotrione most generally was not detected in the 15–20 cm soil layer of the maize and winter wheat crops.
Environmental effects on asexual reproduction in Arundo donax
Authors: BOOSE  , HOLT
Published: March 2003

Arundo donax L. (giant reed) is an invasive perennial plant that has spread widely in riparian areas in California, where it has altered wildlife habitats, created a fire hazard, compromised water conservation efforts, and affected flood control. Currently, physical removal is the primary means of controlling this weed, which is ineffective because of prolific asexual reproduction from an extensive rhizome system. We conducted controlled experiments on the sprouting potential of vegetative propagules, effects of storage duration and conditions on sprouting, and survival and growth of propagules in various soil types and moisture regimens. Sprouting and regrowth varied greatly with propagule type and size and with treatment and duration of storage after removal from the plant. Over 90% of stem and rhizome pieces with at least one node sprouted. Stem sprouting was affected by prior storage duration, temperature and moisture, whereas only storage duration and moisture affected rhizome sprouting. Sprouting was reduced by drying propagules at 30 °C for 1 week and by storage in a soil slurry. After 16 weeks, even propagules maintained optimally in moist soil showed reduced sprouting. Rhizome pieces sprouted readily from a soil depth of 25 cm, whereas stem pieces sprouted from less than 10 cm. Responsiveness of asexual reproduction in A. donax to environmental cues suggests that mechanical control can be improved by careful timing and treatment of cut biomass pieces to minimize or inhibit sprouting.
Weed seeds in long‐term dryland tillage and cropping system plots
Authors: Unger  , Miller  , Jones
Published: March 2003

Successful crop production depends on effective weed control. Weed seedbanks were determined after 12 years of dryland cropping with winter wheat and grain sorghum under different tillage methods (no‐ and stubble mulch) and cropping sequences. Seeds of 12 species were detected. Amaranthus retroflexus was most abundant, but seed numbers were similar under all conditions. Portulaca oleracea, Panicum capillare, Setaria viridis and Sorghum halepense seed numbers differed because of some factors, with those for P. oleracea being greatest. For others, seed numbers were low (≤0.11 kg−1 soil), except for Digitaria sanguinalis with 7.8 kg−1 soil and Bromus japonicus with 1.3 kg−1 soil. Most seeds were near the surface with both tillage methods, with enough present under most conditions to cause a problem if proper control measures were not used, especially with continuous cropping. When a weed problem occurs under conditions as in this study, the results indicate that it could be reduced by growing winter and summer crops in rotation, which permits controlling weeds with tillage and/or herbicides when a crop is not growing. Other possibilities for controlling weeds under conditions as in this study are to alternate between dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous crops, which would permit use of a wider range of herbicides, and to use selective in‐crop herbicides.