bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where health care has no access: the nomadic populations of sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Sheik‐Mohamed Abdikarim , Velema Johan P.
Published: March 2003

Summary Nomadic and seminomadic pastoralists make optimal use of scarce water and pasture in the arid regions south of the Sahara desert, spreading from Mauretania in the west to Somalia in East Africa. We attempted to summarize the fragmentary evidence from the literature on the health status of these populations and to assess the best ways to provide them with modern health care. Infant mortality is higher among nomadic than among neighbouring settled populations, but childhood malnutrition is less frequent. Nomads often avoid exposure to infectious agents by moving away from epidemics such as measles. Trachoma is highly prevalent due to flies attracted by cattle. The high prevalence of tuberculosis is ascribed to the presence of cattle, crowded sleeping quarters and lack of health care; treatment compliance is generally poor. Guinea worm disease is common due to unsafe water sources. Helminth infections are relatively rare as people leave their waste behind when they move. Malaria is usually epidemic, leading to high mortality. Sexually transmitted diseases spread easily due to lack of treatment. Leishmaniasis and onchocerciasis are encountered; brucellosis occurs but most often goes undetected. Drought forces nomads to concentrate near water sources or even into relief camps, with often disastrous consequences for their health. Existing health care systems are in the hands of settled populations and rarely have access to nomads due to cultural, political and economic obstacles. A primary health care system based on nomadic community health workers is outlined and an example of a successful tuberculosis control project is described. Nomadic populations are open to modern health care on the condition that this is not an instrument to control them but something they can control themselves.
Immunoglobulin therapy for severe thrombocytopenia complicating falciparum malaria
Authors: E. H. Elawad M. , M. Jobran J. , Abu Duya A.
Published: March 2003

Summary A 12‐year‐old Saudi boy with falciparum malaria developed profound thrombocytopenia with associated significant bleeding. Immunoglobulin was used to treat this case.
Global, national, and local approaches to mental health: examples from India
Authors: Weiss Mitchell G. , Isaac Mohan , Parkar Shubhangi R. , Chowdhury Arabinda N. , Raguram R.
Published: March 2003

Neuropsychiatric disorders and suicide amount to 12.7% of the global burden of disease and related conditions (GBD) according to World Health Organization (WHO) estimates for 1999, and recognition of the enormous component of mental illness in the GBD has attracted unprecedented attention in the field of international health. Focusing on low‐ and middle‐income countries with high adult mortality, this article discusses essential functions of international agencies concerned with mental health. A review of the history and development of national mental health policy in India follows, and local case studies consider the approach to planning in a rural mental health programme in West Bengal and the experience in an established urban mental health programme in a low‐income community of Mumbai. Local programmes must be attentive to the needs of the communities they serve, and they require the support of global and national policy for resources and the conceptual tools to formulate strategies to meet those needs. National programmes retain major responsibilities for the health of their country’s population: they are the portals through which global and local interests, ideas, and policies formally interact. International priorities should be responsive to a wide range of national interests, which in turn should be sensitive to diverse local experiences. Mental health actions thereby benefit from the synergy of informed and effective policy at each level.
Aedes aegypti in French Guiana: susceptibility to a dengue virus
Authors: Fouque Florence , Vazeille Marie , Mousson Laurence , Gaborit Pascal , Carinci Romuald , Issaly Jean , Rodhain François , Failloux Anna‐Bella
Published: March 2003

Twenty‐seven samples of Aedes aegypti (F1 generation) from French Guiana were tested for their susceptibility to dengue serotype 2 virus. Very high infection rates were observed by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test. Ae. aegypti samples were pooled according to two groups: the first group (N=10) represented mosquitoes from the urbanized area of Cayenne and surroundings, and the second group (N=17) corresponded to mosquitoes collected in the countryside. Infection rates were found to be similar in these two cases. These findings are discussed in relation with the history of Ae. aegypti in this part of the world.
Malaria diagnosis and treatment administered by teachers in primary schools in Tanzania
Authors: Magnussen P. , Ndawi B. , Sheshe A. K. , Byskov J. , Mbwana K.
Published: March 2003

A school health programme in Mwera Division, Pangani District included treatment of malaria attacks occurring in children during school time. A combination of symptoms (headache, muscle/joint pains, feeling feverish) and oral temperature ≥ 37.5 °C was used for the diagnosis of malaria. Chloroquine (25 mg/kg given over 3 days) was used for treatment. Malariometric surveys on children aged 7–15 years (mean 10 years) were conducted once a year (1995–1997).Plasmodium falciparumaccounted for 100% of infections and the parasite prevalence varied between 32.7 and 35.3% from 1995 to 1997. The number of malaria cases (cases/1000 registered school children) diagnosed and treated by school teachers was 159 (67) in 1995, 324 (124) in 1996, 348 (128) in 1997 and 339 (108) in 1998. Children in grades 1–4 (age 7–13) accounted for 64.6% of cases. Symptoms and oral temperature were recorded for 1258 children. Of those, 992 (78.9%) complained of fever and at least one other symptom when presenting to teachers, 98 (7.8%) had fever as their only complaint and 168 (13.5%) presented without a perception of fever, but with other symptoms. Of these children, 36 (21.4%) had a temperature ≥37.5 °C. The sensitivity of ‘feeling feverish’ was 96.5% with a specificity of 54.5%. The positive predictive value of feeling feverish was 89.9% and the negative predictive value 78.6%. Blood slides were prepared from 55.3 and 37.2% of children diagnosed by teachers during 1995 and 1996, respectively, and 71.4% were found positive. Among children who fulfilled the algorithm criteria 75.0% had a positive blood slide. With little training and regular supervision it was feasible for school teachers to make a presumptive diagnosis of malaria. We conclude that teachers can play a major role in school health programmes and are willing to be involved in health matters as long as they are supported by health and educational authorities.
Short communication: Meningitis propagation in southern Tanzania: the role of a village video show
Authors: Jahn A. , Kudzala A. , Kitundu H. , Lyamuya E. , Razum O.
Published: March 2003

An outbreak of meningitis with 85 secondary cases and an unusually high attack rate of 16% occurred in a rural village in southern Tanzania. We investigated risk factors for clinical illness in a community‐based case–control study. Attending a commercial mobile video show carried an age‐ and sex‐adjusted odds ratio of 8.0 (95% confidence interval: 3.8–16.8). The videos had been shown in a windowless and overcrowded storeroom and had been attended by the primary case, a visitor from neighbouring Mozambique who died from meningitis on the following day. We conclude that mobile video shows, which have become popular in many developing countries, constitute a potential health hazard in areas prone to meningitis epidemics.
Hantaan virus antibody prevalence in rodent populations of several provinces of northeastern Thailand
Authors: Nitatpattana Narong , Henrich Timothy , Palabodeewat Somnuek , Tangkanakul Waraluk , Poonsuksombat Duangporn , Chauvancy Gilles , Barbazan Philippe , Yoksan Sutee , Gonzalez Jean‐Paul
Published: March 2003

We conducted a serological survey of 632 rodents from the northeast region of Thailand in order to assess the presence of Hantaan‐like viruses that may be a risk to the human population. Rodents were collected from rice fields, houses and domestic gardens in five northeastern provinces and tested for IgG reacting sera to Hantaan antigen using enzyme‐linked immunoassays. The overall prevalence of Hantavirus infection in rodents was 2.1% (13/632). Species that tested positive included Bandicota indica (4.3% positive within species), Rattus exulans (2.1%), R. losea (1.6%) and R. rattus (0.9%). Species such as R. exulans and R. losea are candidate hosts of unidentified Hantaan‐like viruses in Thailand.
Sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine monotherapy in Tanzanian children gives rapid parasite clearance but slow fever clearance that is improved by chloroquine in combination therapy
Authors: Tarimo D. S. , Minjas J. N. , Bygbjerg I. C.
Published: March 2003

Following widespread chloroquine (CQ) resistance, sulfadoxine plus pyrimethamine (SP) is now the first line antimalarial drug in a number of African countries including Tanzania. Unlike CQ, SP has no antipyretic effects, a feature that might delay fever clearance, and by acting on late stage parasites, SP could theoretical be slow in parasite clearance. We therefore assessed the antipyretic effects of CQ in therapeutic combination with SP, and the speed of parasite clearance by SP in an open‐labelled, randomized trial of CQ alone (n=39), SP alone (n=39), SP plus CQ (n=37) and SP plus paracetamol (PCM) (n=38) in children with uncomplicated malaria. Over 72 h, there were eight (20.5%) treatment failures in the CQ group but none in the other groups. Although not significant (P > 0.1), irrespective of resistance CQ alone had a shorter median survival time to fever clearance than SP alone (54 vs. 60 h). SP plus CQ had a highly significantly shorter median survival time to fever clearance than SP alone (48 vs. 60 h) (P < 0.001). Although borderline (P=0.038), the median survival time to parasite clearance was significantly longer in SP plus PCM (72 h) than SP alone (48 h). Irrespective of resistance, CQ alone had a median survival time to parasite clearance equal to that of SP alone (48 h). Parasite clearance by SP was rapid and at the end of 72 h, most (77.3%, 95% confidence interval: 69.6, 85.0) of the children on SP (as a group) had become aparasitaemic. The findings rule out concerns on possible delayed parasitological and clinical responses to SP that could result from its action on late stage parasites. Despite its diminishing antimalarial activity, CQ has beneficial in vivo antipyretic effects in therapeutic combination with SP.
Efficacy of co‐administration of albendazole and diethylcarbamazine against geohelminthiases: a study from South India
Authors: Mani T. R. , Rajendran R. , Munirathinam A. , Sunish I. P. , Md. Abdullah S. , Augustin D. J. , Satyanarayana K.
Published: March 2003

The efficacy of single‐dose combination drug therapy with diethylcarbamazine (DEC) plus albendazole (ALB), and single‐drug therapy with DEC alone against geohelminths was compared as part of a mass drug administration (MDA) for elimination of filariasis. This study was conducted in two blocks of Villupuram District of Tamil Nadu State, India, covering a population of 321 000 including about 100 000 children 1–15 years of age. Prevalence and intensity of geohelminth infection were determined by the Kato–Katz technique immediately before and 3 weeks after the MDA. A pre‐treatment cross‐sectional survey was undertaken in 18 statistically selected villages out of 204 villages, including 646 school children. About 60% were infected with one or more geohelminths. The overall prevalence rates were 53.9%, 12.4% and 5.7% for Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworms and Trichuris trichiura, respectively. Combination therapy (DEC + ALB) produced a cure rate of 74.3% and an egg reduction rate of 97.3% for geohelminths, which were higher than the corresponding rates (30.4% and 79.0%) observed in the single drug therapy arm with DEC alone. The odds of cure with combination therapy were significantly higher for roundworm (5.3 times) and hookworms (3.5 times), then odds of cure with DEC alone. Both therapies were equally effective against trichuriasis, recording cure rates >77% and egg reduction rates >83%. In combination therapy, 53.5% of the children noticed expulsion of worms after MDA, while in single drug therapy only 20.9% did. Our study indicated that MDA of combination therapy was operationally feasible at the community level, and it may secure higher community compliance because of its perceived benefits and enhanced efficacy against geohelminths than single‐drug therapy.
Health service use and household expenditure during terminal illness due to AIDS in rural Tanzania
Authors: Ngalula Juliana , Urassa Mark , Mwaluko Gabriel , Isingo Raphael , Ties Boerma J.
Published: March 2003

Most knowledge about health seeking behaviour during terminal illness among people with HIV/AIDS in Africa is derived from health facility based studies. This study uses data from a longitudinal community study in a rural area in north‐west Tanzania, where interviews were conducted on health seeking behaviour and expenditure with relatives who lost an adult family member in recent months. HIV status and verbal autopsy were used to assess if service use differed by cause of death. During terminal illness, people with HIV/AIDS made extensive use of both traditional and modern health services, and more so than people who died from other causes. The main factor associated with this difference was the longer duration of illness. Expenses associated with HIV/AIDS terminal illness were higher than for other causes of death, largely because of the longer duration of illness. The direct medical costs were about 1.5 times higher than the funeral costs and the sum of the medical and funeral costs exceeded the estimated annual household income per capita in this population. In conclusion, the rapid increase in numbers of terminally ill adults as a result of HIV/AIDS is likely to lead to an increased burden on all layers of the health system and household resources, in part because of the relatively long duration of HIV/AIDS terminal illness. However, almost half of all HIV/AIDS deaths in this rural population were not admitted to hospitals during their terminal illness and only a small proportion died in hospitals. If more effective treatment becomes available, a further increase in health service use and direct medical costs to households and community is likely.
In vitro evaluation of the quality of essential drugs on the Tanzanian market
Authors: Risha Peter G. , Shewiyo Danstan , Msami Amani , Masuki Gerald , Vergote Geert , Vervaet Chris , Remon Jean Paul
Published: March 2003

We evaluated the in vitro availability and its stability under simulated tropical conditions of various formulations of four essential drugs marketed in Tanzania. We obtained 22 formulations (containing paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, chloroquine or sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine) from wholesale pharmacies in Dar es Salaam and the Medical Stores Department (Tanzania). The drug content, in vitro availability (dissolution) and its stability under simulated tropical conditions were determined using methods specified in the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) 24 monograph of the respective drugs. All formulations passed the pharmacopoeia requirements for the drug content. However, seven formulations (three acetylsalicylic acid, two sulphadoxine/pyrimethamine and two paracetamol) failed to meet the USP 24 tolerance limits for dissolution. Another five formulations (three paracetamol and two chloroquine) failed to meet the dissolution tolerance limits after being subjected to an accelerated stability test under simulated tropical conditions (75% RH/40 °C) for 6 months. The study has demonstrated the presence on the Tanzanian market of essential drug formulations that met potency requirements and yet had unsatisfactory in vitro availability as they were not robust enough to withstand storage under simulated tropical conditions.
Tolerability of doxycycline monohydrate salt vs. chloroquine–proguanil in malaria chemoprophylaxis
Authors: Pagès Frédéric , Boutin Jean‐Paul , Meynard Jean‐Baptiste , Keundjian Annick , Ryfer Serge , Giurato Luciano , Baudon Dominique
Published: March 2003

The resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to the chloroquine–proguanil association (C/P) as antimalarial chemoprophylaxis is becoming increasingly common in Africa. Daily oral doxycycline hyclate 100 mg is effective as malaria prophylaxis. But the hyclate salt's adverse effects combined with the capsule's galenic form are incompatible with good chemoprophylaxis compliance. We conducted a randomized group study of 522 French soldiers deployed in Gabon and Chad for 4 months to determine the tolerability of short‐term malaria chemoprophylaxis with a 100‐mg daily tablet of a monohydrate doxycycline salt compared with a daily C/P capsule. At days 7 and 120, compliance was better in the doxycycline group [respectively 98.5%vs. 73.9% (P < 0.001) and 90.5%vs. 74% (P < 0.001)]. No major event (evacuation, hospitalization) was related to the medications. Epigastralgia, diarrhoea, urticaria, mouth ulcers, sun sensitization and desquamation were significantly more frequent in the C/P group (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference for malaria incidence, vertigo, nausea and hair loss. These results suggest that doxycycline monohydrate may be safely used in short‐term malaria chemoprophylaxis. With the same efficacy as a hyclate doxycycline, doxycycline monohydrate could be a good chemoprophylaxis for short‐term travellers at particular risk of C/P resistant P. falciparum malaria.
An outbreak of Ebola in Uganda
Authors: Okware S. I. , Omaswa F. G. , Zaramba S. , Opio A. , Lutwama J. J. , Kamugisha J. , Rwaguma E. B. , Kagwa P. , Lamunu M.
Published: March 2003

An outbreak of Ebola disease was reported from Gulu district, Uganda, on 8 October 2000. The outbreak was characterized by fever and haemorrhagic manifestations, and affected health workers and the general population of Rwot‐Obillo, a village 14 km north of Gulu town. Later, the outbreak spread to other parts of the country including Mbarara and Masindi districts. Response measures included surveillance, community mobilization, case and logistics management. Three coordination committees were formed: National Task Force (NTF), a District Task Force (DTF) and an Interministerial Task Force (IMTF). The NTF and DTF were responsible for coordination and follow‐up of implementation of activities at the national and district levels, respectively, while the IMTF provided political direction and handled sensitive issues related to stigma, trade, tourism and international relations. The international response was coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO) under the umbrella organization of the Global Outbreak and Alert Response Network. A WHO/CDC case definition for Ebola was adapted and used to capture four categories of cases, namely, the ‘alert’, ‘suspected’, ‘probable’ and ‘confirmed cases’. Guidelines for identification and management of cases were developed and disseminated to all persons responsible for surveillance, case management, contact tracing and Information Education Communication (IEC). For the duration of the epidemic that lasted up to 16 January 2001, a total of 425 cases with 224 deaths were reported countrywide. The case fatality rate was 53%. The attack rate (AR) was highest in women. The average AR for Gulu district was 12.6 cases/10 000 inhabitants when the contacts of all cases were considered and was 4.5 cases/10 000 if limited only to contacts of laboratory confirmed cases. The secondary AR was 2.5% when nearly 5000 contacts were followed up for 21 days. Uganda was finally declared Ebola free on 27 February 2001, 42 days after the last case was reported. The Government's role in coordination of both local and international support was vital. The NTF and the corresponding district committees harmonized implementation of a mutually agreed programme. Community mobilization using community‐based resource persons and political organs, such as Members of Parliament was effective in getting information to the public. This was critical in controlling the epidemic. Past experience in epidemic management has shown that in the absence of regular provision of information to the public, there are bound to be deleterious rumours. Consequently rumour was managed by frank and open discussion of the epidemic, providing daily updates, fact sheets and press releases. Information was regularly disseminated to communities through mass media and press conferences. Thus all levels of the community spontaneously demonstrated solidarity and response to public health interventions. Even in areas of relative insecurity, rebel abductions diminished considerably.
Longitudinal studies in South Indian villages on Japanese encephalitis virus infection in mosquitoes and seroconversion in goats
Authors: Rajendran R. , Thenmozhi V. , Tewari S. C. , Balasubramanian A. , Ayanar K. , Manavalan R. , Gajanana A. , Kabilan L. , Thakare J. P. , Satyanarayana K.
Published: March 2003

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is endemic in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, where Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles was the major vector. We screened 45 100 adult female Cx. tritaeniorhynchus (902 pools) by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and isolated and confirmed JE virus (JEV) by using an insect bioassay system. We had 69 isolates of which 62 (90%) were identified as JEV. The average vector abundance per man hour for Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was 324.5 per month for the period June 1998–May 2000. The average minimum infection rate (MIR) per month in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus was 1.4 (range 0.0–5.6). Every year, a new batch of goats, 20 in the first year and 31 in the second year, born during the non‐JE transmission period (January–June), aged <6 months and negative for haemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibodies were procured and placed in the villages as sentinels. Fortnightly, blood specimens were collected from these goats and tested for JE antibodies by HI test. Seroconversions (SCs) were recorded in 14 goats (70%) in the first year and 23 goats (74%) in the second year. JE HI antibody titres in goats were low (1:10–1:80) and these levels declined to undetectable levels in about 4 weeks following SCs. The time sequence of events indicated that four of five peaks of MIR in mosquitoes were followed 1–3 months later by peaks in the proportion of seroconverted goats. We suggest the screening of goats and cattle as a more feasible tool to stratify areas according to JE infection risk to the human population through the regular health system rather than screening mosquitoes using monoclonal antibodies, which is possible only in specialized laboratories.
Sulphonamides: updates on use in veterinary medicine
Authors: Campbell K.L.
Published: March 2003

Sulphonamides are the oldest class of antimicrobials and are still the drug of choice for many diseases in veterinary patients. They are classified based on their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This article presents an overview of various sulphonamides in each classification, the mechanisms of bacterial resistance, and the effectiveness and maintenance of skin concentrations. Clinical indications, routes and frequency of administration, duration of therapy, compliance factors, cost, adverse drug reactions and drug interactions are described. Controversial topics such as current usage and recommendations for sulphonamide use in dermatology are also discussed.
Post‐antibiotic effect of cephalexin against isolates of Staphylococcus intermedius obtained from cases of canine pyoderma
Authors: Bousquet E. , Ganiere J.‐P. , Ruvoen N. , Larrat M.
Published: March 2003

The post‐antibiotic effect in vitro (PAE) of cephalexin was determined according to a broth dilution method against 5 isolates of Staphylococcus intermedius obtained from cases of canine pyoderma. Two durations of exposure and 3 concentrations were tested. The PAE increased when time of exposure or concentration increased. The mean PAE ranged from 0.7 to 3.3 h. The PAE of cephalexin against Staph‐ylococcus intermedius may be clinically relevant when selecting a dosage regimen to treat pyoderma in dogs.
Subepidermal linear alignment of mast cells in inflammatory dermatoses of the dog
Authors: Beningo Karyn E. , Scott Danny W. , Erb Hollis N.
Published: March 2003

A recent study demonstrated that 47.7% of dogs with Malassezia dermatitis had a subepidermal linear alignment of mast cells (SLAM). A retrospective histopathological study was conducted on 419 canine skin biopsies to determine if a SLAM was present in other inflammatory diseases. Cases examined included dogs with demodicosis, sarcoptic mange, dermatophytosis, pemphigus foliaceus, pemphigus erythematosus, discoid lupus erythematosus, systemic lupus erythematosus, erythema multiforme, dermatomyositis, staphylococcal pyoderma, primary seborrhea, arthropod bites, contact hypersensitivity, flea bite hypersensitivity, atopy, and food hypersensitivity. Three cases (3/419, 0.7%) were identified with SLAM. The diagnoses for these cases were atopy (1/23, 4%) with a secondary bacterial folliculitis (1/136, 0.7%), pemphigus erythematosus (1/18, 6%), and discoid lupus erythematosus (1/16, 6%). Based on this study, SLAM is significantly more common in Malassezia dermatitis than in other inflammatory diseases.
Staining abnormalities of dermal collagen in eosinophil‐ or neutrophil‐rich inflammatory dermatoses of horses and cats as demonstrated with Masson’s trichrome stain
Authors: Fernandez Charlene J. , Scott Danny W. , Erb Hollis N.
Published: March 2003

A retrospective study was performed on skin biopsy specimens from horses and cats having eosinophilic granulomas with ‘collagen degeneration’, eosinophilic skin diseases without ‘collagen degeneration’ and pyogranulomas without ‘collagen degeneration’. Neither the appearance of collagen fibres nor the dominant polymorphonuclear cells, as seen in H & E‐stained sections, were predictive of Masson’s trichrome findings. Hence, a Masson’s trichrome staining abnormality of collagen fibres was no more likely to be present in lesions with ‘collagen degeneration’ than in those lesions without ‘collagen degeneration’. In addition, evaluation of trichrome‐stained specimens suggested that there is no collagen degeneration in equine and feline eosinophilic granulomas and that the areas previously referred to as collagen degeneration are more appropriately called flame figures.
Clinicopathologic findings, sensitivity to house dust mites and efficacy of milbemycin oxime treatment of dogs withCheyletiellasp. infestation
Authors: White S.D. , Rosychuk R.A.W. , Fieseler K.V.
Published: March 2003

Twenty‐three dogs with positive skin scrapings forCheyletiellasp. were treated with milbemycin oxime using a protocol approximating 2 mg kg−1orally once weekly for three weeks. Nineteen of these dogs belonged to a household of 41 dogs and two dogs were in households with one other dog. All in‐contact dogs were treated. Pre‐treatment intradermal skin tests showed positive reactions toD. farinaein 13 dogs and toD. pteronyssinusin 12 dogs; these became negative post‐treatment in four and seven dogs, respectively. All dogs showed a dramatic reduction in clinical signs one week after the third treatment. Eighteen dogs no longer had mites on skin scrapings, three had dead mites and two had deformed eggs. Recurrence of clinical signs necessitated two additional courses of the protocol in the multiple dog household and for a dog receiving immunosuppressive treatment for pemphigus foliaceus. Possible adverse reactions to the milbemycin (vomiting, lethargy) were noted once in two dogs.
Feline atopy in three littermates
Authors: Moriello Karen A.
Published: March 2003

This case report describes the history, clinical signs and diagnosis of a pruritic skin disease in three sibling cats living the same household. Clinical signs consistent with pruritus (i.e. hair pulling, hair loss, excessive grooming and face rubbing) were first noted when the cats were 6 months of age. The cats were treated for a possible ear mite and/or flea infestation; there was no response to treatment and clinical signs progressed. Although the presence of pruritus in a multiple cat household suggested an infectious or contagious aetiology, none could be identified. There was no improvement in clinical signs after a 60‐day flea control trial, three treatments of ivermectin, an 8‐week restricted diet or removal from the home for 10 days. A diagnosis of feline atopy was made on the basis of elimination of other causes of pruritus, consistent history and clinical signs, a positive intradermal skin test and response to therapy.
Antimicrobial activity of enrofloxacin againstStaphylococcus intermediusstrains isolated from canine pyodermas
Authors: Ganière Jean‐Pierre , Médaille Christine , Limet Agnès , Ruvoen Nathalie , André‐Fontaine Geneviève
Published: March 2003

This study examined and compared the minimal inhibition concentrations (MICs) of enrofloxacin against 393Staphylococcus intermediusstrains isolated in France from canine pyodermas during three different years, 1995 (174 isolates), 1997 (101 isolates) and 1999 (118 isolates). The MICs of enrofloxacin against these strains ranged from 0.063 to 64 mg L−1, with MIC50and MIC90equal to 0.125 and 0.25 mg L−1, respectively. Two resistant strains were found, but only among isolates collected in 1999. The data show that resistance to enrofloxacin amongS. intermediusstrains is still rare in dogs, but the selectionin vitroof variants in which the MICs were increased 4–16‐fold after 10 serial passages in subinhibitory concentrations of enrofloxacin suggests that inappropriate use might favour the development of resistant strainsin vivo.
Positive ‘atopy patch tests’ reactions in IgE‐hyperresponsive beagle dogs are dependent upon elevated allergen‐specific IgE serum levels and are associated with IgE‐expressing dendritic cells
Authors: Olivry T. , Buckler K. E. , Dunston S. M. , Clarke K. B. , Mccall C. A.
Published: March 2003

In human patients with atopic dermatitis, the development of inflammation after epicutaneous application of allergens is dependent upon the presence of IgE and Langerhans’ cells. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of allergen‐specific IgE in the generation of positive patch test reactions in experimentally sensitized IgE‐hyperresponsive beagle dogs. Patch tests were performed on seven dogs with Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) and flea saliva (FS) allergens or saline control. Two of the dogs had elevated serum IgE against Df, one against FS, two against both and two were not hypersensitive to either allergen. Positive macroscopic reactions consisted of erythema, oedema and induration, and developed between 24 and 96 h after allergen application. Macroscopic and microscopic patch test reactions developed only when serum IgE was present against tested allergens. Serum IgE levels were positively correlated with dermal cell counts at 48 h (Spearman r = 0.59; P = 0.03) and 96 h (r = 0.68; P < 0.01) after challenge. In Df‐sensitized dogs, positive patch tests were associated with numerous IgE‐staining epidermal and dermal dendritic cell aggregates. Dendritic cells positive for IgE also expressed CD1c, identifying cells as Langerhans’ cells. These observations suggest that the development of positive patch test reactions are IgE‐dependent, and that macroscopic and microscopic patch test lesions resemble those seen in dogs with spontaneously‐arising atopic dermatitis. ‘Atopy Patch Tests’ therefore could provide a good model for investigating the pathogenesis and treatment of atopic skin lesions in the canine species.

 This study was supported, in part, by Heska Corporation.
Therapeutic response to pentoxifylline and its active metabolites in dogs with dermatomyositis
Authors: Rees C. A. , Boothe D. M. , Wilkie S.
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to determine a therapeutic dose for Trental® (pentoxifylline) when used to treat dogs with dermatomyositis. Eleven dogs diagnosed with dermatomyositis based on history, physical examination and biopsy were treated with pentoxifylline (46.5 ± 8 mg kg−1 divided twice daily) with food. Biweekly for 3 months, urinalyses, complete blood counts, serum chemistries and therapeutic drug monitoring (peak collected at 3 h and trough before the next dose) were collected. Dermatological lesions were assessed during each visit and given a score (0 = nonexistent, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate and 3 = severe). Serum concentrations of pentoxifylline (pentoxy) and metabolites 1 (M1) and 5 (M5) were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Descriptive statistics were generated for the drug concentrations. Although all animals responded to therapy, the time to initial response (skin lesions changed to a lower score compared with the initial visit) varied between all of the dogs. The range was 4 to 10 weeks, with a median of 6 weeks of therapy. Laboratory tests did not differ between the first and last sampling times (month 3). Pentoxifylline and M1 and M5 concentrations (ng mL−1) for the 11 dogs varied between dog and across time for each dog. In general, concentrations for all three compounds were detectable only with peak (3 h) samples. Concentrations for M5 were highest for all dogs at each sampling time, and appeared to be the most consistent and characterized by the least variability. Concentrations were not detectable in one dog for pentoxy or M1 at any time, but were detectable for M5. Data for this dog were not included. Based on the response to therapy in this study, a dose 25 mg kg−1 of pentoxifylline administered every 12 h appears to be an effective beginning dose. Because of variability in disposition, including metabolite formation, monitoring of pentoxifylline may not offer a therapeutic advantage.

 Funding: Collie Club of America Foundation.
Canine epidermal nevus treated with cryotherapy
Authors: Shibata K. , Nagata M. , Akakuma O. , Nanko H.
Published: March 2003

Epidermal nevus is a hamartomatous disorder characterized by hyperplasia of epidermal structures in a circumscribed area of the skin. This condition has been well recognized in humans, but rarely reported in dogs. Surgical excision is the most reliable treatment, and systemic retinoids has been reported to be effective in dogs. We describe a dog with epidermal nevus treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. A 5‐month‐old male Shetland sheepdog presented with symmetrical linear and verrucous papules and plaques with mild pruritus on the axillae, ventral trunk and perianal area. Skin lesions were noticed at 2 months of age, and the colour of lesions gradually changed from normal to brownish. The general condition of the dog was otherwise good. Complete blood counts and biochemical analysis showed no abnormalities, and skin biopsies revealed orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis and papillomatosis. Based on these findings, the dog was diagnosed with epidermal nevus and treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy applied with a cotton applicator stick. Five days after the treatment, the lesions began slough with mild pigmentation developing at the sites. There was no recurrence of the lesions 3 months after treatment. It appears that liquid nitrogen cryotherapy could be considered a useful therapeutic option to control this disease in dogs.
Dependence of weed flora on the active soil seedbank
Authors: ZHANG  , HAMILL  , GARDINER  , WEAVER
Published: March 2003

Previous studies have shown that reliable predictions of the above‐ground weed flora may not be obtainable by using the total number of seeds in the seedbank. The purpose of this study was to determine if the actual weed flora depends on the active soil seedbank (seeds that are germinable in the spring). In the 1995 growing season, seedling emergence was monitored within permanent quadrats established in a field. Soil cores taken from the same field were also monitored for seedling emergence in a greenhouse to estimate the number of seeds in the active soil seedbank. Significant positive relationships were observed between the above two variables based on either total weed flora or individual weed species commonly found in south‐western Ontario, Canada. For relatively large‐seeded species, the relationship held with a sampling depth up to 15 cm below the soil surface. For small‐seeded species, a shallow sampling depth (0–7·5 cm) generated better results than deeper sampling (0–15 cm). In general, 3–7% of the seeds in the active soil seedbank were capable of producing seedlings in the field. The results suggest that the level of weed infestation in a growing season may be predicted using seeds in the active soil seedbank.
Study on the behaviour of imazapyr in two Moroccan soils
Authors: AZZOUZI M. EL , DAHCHOUR  , BOUHAOUSS  , FERHAT
Published: March 2003

Imazapyr owes its importance in Morocco to its success in controlling the perennial weed Solanumelaeagnifolium Cav., which infests the Tadla area. Persistence and mobility of imazapyr has been studied in two Moroccan soils from the Rabat area, with differing organic matter content (red and organic soils), under laboratory conditions at 75% of their field capacities and 25–28 °C. Residue analysis was performed on the basis of a bioassay test using lentil (Lens culinaris Medic.) as indicator species. The residual activity of imazapyr accounted for 69%, 25%, 50% and 62%, 46%, 66% of the initial activity for the red and organic soils at 1, 5 and 10 mg L−1 respectively. The half‐lives varied between 25 and 58 days for the red soil and 55 and 58 days for the organic soil. In the organic soil, imazapyr was highly mobile under the irrigation regime applied. Most of the activity was found in the first 3 × 75 mL of the effluents. A following biotest with the leached soil showed low remaining residual activity.
Response of Brassica napus in tissue culture to metsulfuron‐methyl and chlorsulfuron
Authors: SEIDEN  , KAPPEL  , STREIBIG
Published: March 2003

A herbicide bioassay based on tissue cultures ofBrassica napusL. was evaluated with selected sulfonylurea herbicides. Data were analysed by fitting the results to a log‐logistic dose–response model. Within an experiment, the non‐linear regression models were fitted simultaneously to the individual dose–response curves. The results obtained showed good response to even low concentrations of herbicide, with detection limits in the range 0.008–0.69 nmol L−1for chlorsulfuron and 0.02–0.13 nmol L−1for metsulfuron. The reproducibility of the assays, on the basis of coefficient of variation of theED50values, was found to be 44% for chlorsulfuron and 48% for metsulfuron measurements. Assay of herbicide dissolved in aqueous soil extract showed significant interference from this matrix on the response, requiring a five times dilution of the extract to overcome this matrix effect.
Influence of broad‐leaved weed herbicides on the activity of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl
Authors: MATHIASSEN  , KUDSK
Published: March 2003

The activity of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl applied alone or in tank‐mixture with different formulations of mecoprop or sulfonylurea herbicides was compared in a series of pot experiments usingAvena fatuaL. (wild oat) as a test plant. A logistic model was fitted to the results and dose–response curves of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl applied alone and in mixture with the broad‐leaved weed herbicides were estimated using non‐linear regressions. Tank‐mixtures of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl and mecoprop or metsulfuron‐methyl were antagonistic. In general, the activity of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl decreased with increasing doses of the broad‐leaved herbicides. In mixture with 1200 g a.i. ha−1mecoprop, doses of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl had to be increased by 60% to 130% (dependent on formulation) to obtain the same effect as when fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl was applied alone. Both the active and the inactive isomers of mecoprop were involved in the antagonism, and the ester formulation of mecoprop‐P was less antagonistic than the amine formulation. In mixture with the recommended dose of 8 g a.i. ha−1of metsulfuron‐methyl, doses of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl had to be increased by 20% to 110% to obtain the same effect as with fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl applied alone. Fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl did not lose activity when applied in mixture with recommended doses of chlorsulfuron, tribenuron and amidosulfuron. Antagonism of the sulfonylurea herbicides seemed to be related to the susceptibility ofA.␣fatuato these herbicides.
Ecophysiological characteristics of four maize hybrids and Abutilon theophrasti
Authors: Lindquist J L , Mortensen D A
Published: March 2003

Combining empirical research with simulation modelling may improve our understanding of the dynamics of crop:weed competition and for testing hypotheses on the importance of specific traits for enhancing crop performance in mixtures. Two field experiments were conducted to quantify and compare estimates of traits important for radiation interception and utilization in four maize hybrids and Abutilon theophrasti grown in monoculture. Early leaf area growth rate did not vary among maize hybrids within a year, but varied among years. The response of CO2 assimilation rate to absorbed radiation and leaf nitrogen content did not differ among hybrids. Abutilon theophrasti and two old maize hybrids partitioned more new biomass to stem relative to reproductive organs than newer hybrids. Old hybrids had greater specific leaf area during the period of most rapid growth, grew taller, and leaf area was distributed higher in their canopy. Extinction coefficients for diffuse radiation did not differ among hybrids or between years. Results suggest that these four maize hybrids may differ in their ability to intercept incident radiation, which may influence their ability to compete for light.
Does kriging predict weed distributions accurately enough for site‐specific weed control?
Authors: Rew L J , Whelan B , Mcbratney A B
Published: March 2003

Numerous studies have demonstrated the patchy distribution of weeds within fields. The majority of these studies have used discrete sampling, recording weed densities at the intersections of regular grids. In this study, Avena spp. seedlings were recorded on square grids at four sites. The data were then divided into test and real data sets using the whole, two‐thirds and one‐half of the data to evaluate the consistency of global variogram models and accuracy of ordinary kriging estimates. Kriging provided poor weed density estimates at both very low and high densities, i.e. data were smoothed when compared with true values. Grid sampling took considerable time and, therefore, money to complete, whereas continuous sampling with multispectral imagery (performed at one site) was much quicker and at a finer resolution. It is suggested that sampling systems that collect continuous rather than discrete data are currently more appropriate for site‐specific weed management.
Soil metabolism of flupyrsulfuron in winter wheat crops
Authors: ROUCHAUD J , MOULARD C , EELEN H , BULCKE R
Published: March 2003

The sulfonylurea herbicide flupyrsulfuron was applied post‐emergence in March at the rate of 10 g a.i. ha−1 on winter wheat crops. In the 0–8 cm surface soil layer of the crops grown on sandy loam and loam soils, the flupyrsulfuron half‐life was 64 and 40 days respectively. Flupyrsulfuron and its metabolites were not detected during both crops or 1 month after crop harvest in the 8–15 and 15–20 cm soil layers. Soil degradation of flupyrsulfuron successively generated the cyclization products 1‐(4,6‐dimethoxypyrimidine‐2‐yl)‐2,4‐diketo‐7‐trifluoromethyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydropyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine 2 and N‐(4,6‐dimethoxypyrimidine‐2‐yl)‐N‐(3‐methoxycarbonyl‐6‐trifluoromethylpyridine‐2‐yl)‐amine 3, which were the main metabolites of flupyrsulfuron in soil. Hydrolysis of 3 successively generated N‐(4,6‐dimethoxypyrimidine‐2‐yl)‐N‐(3‐car‐ boxylic acid‐6‐trifluoromethylpyridine‐2‐yl)‐amine 4 and N‐(4‐methoxy‐6‐hydroxypyrimidine‐2‐yl)‐N‐(3‐carboxylic acid‐6‐trifluoromethylpyridine‐2‐yl)‐amine 5. Low and temporary concentrations of 2‐sulfonamido‐3‐carbomethoxy‐6‐trifluoromethyl‐pyridine 6 and 2‐amino‐4,6‐dimethoxypyrimidine 7 were observed. Bioassays with sugarbeet as test plants indicated that 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 had herbicide activities corresponding to 100%, 80%, 75%, 75%, 75% and 15% of that of flupyrsulfuron respectively. The metabolites thus extended the herbicidal protection given by flupyrsulfuron and explain the high herbicidal protection given by the low dose of flupyrsulfuron applied. One month after the harvest of the winter wheat, no more significant residue of flupyrsulfuron or of its metabolites was detected in soil.
The impact of cropping on weed species composition in rice after fallow across a hydrological gradient in west Africa
Authors: Johnson D E , Kent R J
Published: March 2003

In a 5‐year experiment, weed species composition in rice was recorded at different positions along the toposequence, from the rain‐fed upland to the irrigated valley bottom. A total of 107 species was recorded, 70 of which occurred in more than 1% of the total of 465 samples. Canonical correspondence analysis was used to explore the changes in weed flora over time in the different rice‐growing environments. There were substantial differences in the composition of weed flora between the differing environments and years. On the upland sites, there was a pronounced shift from perennial grasses, including Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeuschel and Pennisetum purpureum Schum., to annual grass weeds, such as Digitaria horizontalis Willd., Chloris pilosa Schum. and Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. The forbs Boerhavia spp. and Euphorbia heterophylla L. also increased in abundance, whereas others, such as Aspilia bussei Hoffm. & Muschl. and Laggera aurita (L.f.) Sch. Bip. ex C. B. Clarke, declined. The total number of species in the upland site declined from 30 to 11 between 1992 and 1996 compared with 11 to eight species in the same period in the irrigated lowlands. Although the numbers of species recorded in the lowlands were lower and more stable over time, there was an increase in problem grass weeds, such as Echinochloa crus‐pavonis (Kunth.) Schult. in the irrigated lowlands and Leersia hexandra Sw.in the rain‐fed lowlands.
Weed population dynamics during the groundnut crop cycle in the wet tropical zone of Kombe (Congo)
Authors: N'Zala D , Naadjidjim J , Ngaka A
Published: March 2003

Weed competition in crops constitutes the main limiting factor for groundnut crop yields in the Congolese humid zone. In order to control the problems related to weed interference in the crop, the most appropriate weeding period for good production has been investigated. The critical period of weed interference has been determined from a groundnut crop experiment weeded at different times during two crop cycles. The data obtained allowed the authors to propose a suitable weeding regime that would reduce the costs and frequencies of weeding and enable local farmers to plan their work more effectively.
Taxonomic evaluation of Italian populations of Lolium spp. resistant and susceptible to diclofop‐methyl
Authors: Dinelli G , Bonetti A , Lucchese C , Catizone P , Bravin F , Zanin G
Published: March 2003

A comprehensive research project was set up to characterize by different approaches some Italian populations of Lolium spp. susceptible and resistant to diclofop‐methyl. The present study was aimed at the taxonomic identification of these Lolium populations on the basis of the electrophoretic analysis of seed reserve proteins. Electrophoresis confirmed the great range of variation detected by preliminary morphological analysis. Approximately half the individuals in each population could be classified as belonging to Lolium multiflorum or Lolium rigidum, the most common Lolium species present in the area. However, electrophoretic patterns revealed a significant number (40–60%) of hybrid individuals in all populations. The origin of these off‐types was postulated as resulting from both intrageneric hybridization among different Lolium species and intergeneric hybridization between Lolium and Festuca genera. No significant differences were detected in the taxonomy of herbicide‐susceptible and ‐resistant populations.