Showing papers by "Makerere University published in 1990"

Family-Oriented Primary Care

Abstract: In case of a disease, the family system can function as a burden or a resource and support system. The genogram (a visual depiction of the patient’s family relationships and other relevant information) helps the doctor to get a clear understanding of symptoms, life events, and diseases across three generations. The different phases of the family dialogue are: joining, context and mission clarification, questions about family dynamics and psychological resources and challanges, treatment planning, and conclusion of the interview. The following communication techniques can proof to be useful tools in conducting a family interview: direct disease-related questions, indirect or circular questions, and hypothetical questions.

AIDS and HIV infection in Uganda--are more women infected than men?

Abstract: In countries in sub-Saharan Africa, HIV is transmitted primarily heterosexually. HIV infection and AIDS in women not only affects women's health but also has implications for the other members of society. Maternal infection is the source of most childhood HIV infection in Africa and maternal health is a strong predictor of child survival. In Uganda, a review of passive AIDS surveillance has shown almost equal numbers of clinical cases reported in men and women. However, in three population-based HIV serosurveys, women were consistently found to have a higher infection rate (approximately 1.4 times) than men. In addition, both AIDS case surveillance and seroprevalence studies demonstrate an earlier age of presentation and mean age of infection in women. The higher rate of HIV infection in women suggests either differential rates of transmission between women and men, higher rates of female sexual exposure to infected men, or longer survival among HIV-infected women compared with men. Although further studies are required to illuminate both the biology and the epidemiology of heterosexual HIV transmission in Africa, these findings of earlier and higher infection rates in women have important implications for women's health and child survival in Uganda and indicate the need for specially targeted interventions to reduce transmission in this group.

Absence of Bacteremia with Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare in Ugandan Patients with AIDS

Abstract: Disseminated infection with Mycobacterium avium-intracellular is the most common systemic bacterial infection in American patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Blood cultures for mycobacteria were obtained form 50 severely ill Ugandan patients who fulfilled the WHO criteria for AIDS and considered late in the course of their illness: 98% had the antibody to HIV as measured by the ELISA method. All blood cultures were negative. These data suggest that disseminated infection with M. avium-intracellular is infrequent in Ugandan patients with AIDS if it occurs at all. (authors modified)

Why fly? The possible benefits for lower mortality

Abstract: In adult endotherms—birds and mammals—mortality rates are lower in flying than non-flying species. Rates vary with size, but allowing for this they are higher in penguins than flying birds, and in rodents than bats. These observations are most simply explained in terms of predation since flight, allowing movement in three dimensions, increases the chances of escape. There are various problems in obtaining and comparing data on rates of mortality and this partly explains a wide scattering of points. Nevertheless the main results are statistically significant, mostly at P<0.001. Amongst birds, there are several other significant differences. Mortality rates are lower at lower latitudes, and in aquatic compared to terrestrial species, with cliff-nesters having lower rates than other aquatic birds and co-operative breeders than other terrestrial ones. No latitudinal effect was detected in mammals. The exceptionally low rates of mortality in bats and swifts are attributed to their being particularly hard to catch.

The banana (Musa spp.) - Coffee robusta: traditional agroforestry system of Uganda

Abstract: Banana (Musa spp.) — with Coffee robusta a traditional agroforestry system in Uganda is a purely mixed cropping system managed on a sustained production basis. The basic primary production is banana as a main food crop and Coffee robusta as the main cash crop. The variety of trees deliberately retained, managed and planted, animals and crops in the system are managed by the farmers to maximize production by supplying timber, fruits, fuelwood, fodder, food, medicinal and other miscellaneous uses.

Aflatoxigenic aspergilli in foods and feeds in uganda

Abstract: Studies conducted during the sixties and the seventies on food crops in Uganda showed that the populace was exposed to consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated foods. These studies also linked the highest incidence of liver cancer in the world to the presence of high levels of aflatoxins in the food and beverages. After a lapse of a decade, it was of interest to investigate the occurrence of aflatoxins and aflatoxigenic fungi in staple Ugandan food crops and poultry feeds derived from these foodstuffs. A simple, rapid and reproducible procedure was used. The procedure consisted of growing or culturing feed grains on a selective medium, Aspergillus flavus/parasiticus agar (AFPA) followed by screening for aflatoxin producing fungi on a coconut agar medium (CAM) under UV light with a subsequent confirmatory screening method for aflatoxin production by the fungi in pure culture. Fifty-four samples consisting of corn and peanuts, soybean and poultry feed were analyzed for content of aflatoxigenic. A. flavus/parasiticus and 25 of the samples were also screened for aflatoxins B1 and G1, zearalenone, sterigmatocystin, ochratoxin A, citrinin, vomitoxin, and diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS). Aflatoxigenic A. flavus/parasiticus was detected from the majority of corn (77%), peanuts (36% human food and 83.3% animal feed) and poultry feed (66.6%). but not from soybean samples. Two samples out of 25 contained detectable levels of aJatosin B, (20 ppb). For the jirst time other mycotoxins, zearalenone (3 samples) and vomitoxin (2 samples) were detected in corn from Uganda.

Position and orientation of the foramen magnum in higher primates

Abstract: The location of the foramen magnum, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the cranium, and its orientation with respect to the Frankfurt Horizontal, have been studied in a total of 328 modern human and Pan crania. The samples were chosen in order to examine the effect of overall size difference on foramen magnum disposition. Foramen position (expressed as three indices) and inclination are relatively invariant among the modern human samples, but the foramen magnum is consistently, and statistically significantly, more anteriorly located in Pan paniscus than in Pan troglodytes. Sexual dimorphism is virtually non-existent. There is an apparent allometric effect on foramen position, but not on inclination, so that larger crania in the modern human and Pan paniscus samples tend to have more posteriorly situated foramina. The disposition of the foramen is unrelated to cranial base angle or facial prognathism, except that in Pan paniscus its relative anterior location is linked with the more flexed cranial base in that species. These results provide a comparative context for the examination of differences in foramen magnum disposition in fossil hominids. Differences in foramen magnum position and orientation between KNM-ER 1813 and A. africanus are most unlikely to be due to within-taxon variability.

Observations on the benthos of Murchison Bay, Lake Victoria, East Africa

Abstract: Summary There is paucity of data on benthic organisms in Lake Victoria, as in many other African lakes. A study to ascertain the biomass, standing crop and spatial distribution of benthic organisms in the northern shores of Lake Victoria indicated a rich benthic fauna composed mainly of insects, molluscs and oligochaetes. Total biomass for the 200 km2 Murchison Bay was 146,000 tonnes. The lamellibranchs formed the highest biomass (68,940t) followed by gastropods (30,840t), insects (25,760 t) and annelids (20,460 t). Mean standing crop biomass values for genera in the various taxa were determined from their spatial distribution patterns (mean numbers per unit area) and mean individual weights. The high benthic biomass is currently under-utilized by benthic organisms at higher trophic levels and consequently represents utilizable organic matter directly or indirectly for man's benefit. Hence, a lakewide study is recommended. Resume On possede peu de donnees sur les organismes benthiques du lac Victoria come de beaucoup d'autres lacs africains. Menee dans le but de connaitre la biomasse, l'inventaire et la distribution spatiale des organismes benthiques sur les bords nord du lac Victoria, une etude a revele une faune benthique riche, composee principalement d'insectes, de mollusques et d'oligochetes. La biomasse totale pour les 200 km2 de la Murchison Bay etait de 146,000 tonnes. Les lamellibranches en composaient la plus grande part (68,940 t), suivis par les gasteropodes (30,840t), les insectes (25,760t) et les annelides (20,460t). Les valeurs moyennes de biomasse par genre des differents taxons ont ete determinees a partir du schema de leur distribution spatiale (nombres moyens par unite de surface) et du poids individuel moyen. La biomasse benthique elevee est actuellement sous-utilisee par les organismes benthiques des ordres trophiques superieurs et represente par consequent une matiere organique directement ou indirectement utilisable au profit de l'homme. On recommande donc une etude a l'echelle du lac entier.

The distribution of non-Burkitt, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas in Uganda in relation to malarial endemicity.

Abstract: Biopsies of malignant lymphomas collected from all districts of Uganda, filed in the Kampala Cancer Registry for the 8-year period 1966-1973, were reviewed. This review confirmed a relatively low frequency of follicle-centre-cell lymphomas with a follicular growth pattern and the geographical co-distribution between malaria and Burkitt's lymphoma (BL). It also showed a similar, though less marked, association between non-Burkitt, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NBNHL) and malarial endemicity, and a correlation in the regional incidence between BL and NBNHL. In both comparisons, these associations were strong for high-grade lymphomas and weak for low-grade neoplasms. BL and other NHL may therefore share, to a varying degree, some common pathogenesis. The excess in frequency of NBNHL of high-grade malignancy in malarial endemic areas appears to be in contrast to Western countries where most non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are of low-grade malignancy.

Risk Factors for Maternal Mortality in Five Kampala Hospitals, 1980–1986

Abstract: A case-control study assessing risk factors for maternal mortality was carried out in five Kampala hospitals covering a period of seven years (1 January 1980 to 31 December 1986). The major predictors of maternal mortality were the general condition on admission, the mode of delivery and the Apgar score of the newborn. These predictors indicate that women at high risk were those admitted to hospital for delivery in a poor state of health. We believe that the risk of maternal mortality can be reduced through appropriate action by health workers and that there is a need for a more complete view of risk factors for both maternal and perinatal mortality to be obtained through population-based studies rather than only those women who deliver in hospital.

Appendicectomy in Consolata Hospital, Nyeri: analysis of operative and histological findings.

Abstract: An account is given of 348 patients with suspected appendicitis treated with appendicectomy between September 1982 and December 1988. The operative findings in 276 cases and the findings on histology in 306 appendices are presented. An "operational error" of 18.3% (normal appendices) was made. Appendicitis was diagnosed in 41.2% of the organs while in 41.0%, the only findings were the faecoliths with or without attenuation of the mucosa. There was one case each of amoebic, schistosomal and tuberculous appendicitis. The findings are analysed and compared with those from elsewhere.

Deciding the future of Uganda's tropical forests

Abstract: The FFPS has been involved for some time in conservation activities in the diminishing montane forests of east-central Africa. These montane forests form an upper sector of an even more endangered medium-altitude forest formation. Throughout their distribution, medium-altitude forests have been extensively disturbed by ever-increasing human activities. Extensive areas remain only in eastern Zaire, where there ststus is uncertain, and in Uganda. The Ugandan forests are now the focus of a major internationally financed development programme.

Attitudes and psychological characteristics of suicidal individuals.

Abstract: The study of suicidal behavior is so complex that the search continues for clues that might explain why some people make successful suicide attempts on their lives. In this article, the authors describe attitudes and psychological characteristics of suicidal psychiatric patients and university students in Transkei. Using a specially designed suicide proneness inventory, the authors describe three factors associated with suicide proneness in Transkei, namely, Suicidal Ideation, Feeling Abandoned, and Lack of Self-Esteem. The findings suggest that suicide wishes are probably more prevalent in the general population than clinical evidence might suggest. Also, it appears that the two most important factors associated with high risk for suicide are a person's inability to cope with stressful situations and a negative personal attitude toward life.

Therapeutic value of partial excision of lesions combined with administration of an autogenous vaccine during an episode of cutaneous papillomatosis in cattle of Uganda.

Abstract: The therapeutic value of partial excision of lesions combined with administration of an autogenous vaccine in calves during an episode of cutaneous papillomatosis was evaluated. Of 10 Holstein calves naturally infected with cutaneous papillomatosis, 5 were given 20 ml of autogenous vaccine in addition to undergoing partial excision of the lesions; the other 5 calves were not given vaccine. Results indicate that partial excision combined with administration of autogenous vaccine has some therapeutic value in calves with small pedunculated papillomas, but not in calves with large confluent lesions.

The use of fermented and germinated cereals and tubers for improved feeding of infants and children in Uganda.

Abstract: Interviews with mothers in 4 ecologically separate regions of Uganda (Arua, Mukono, Kabale and Mbarara) revealed considerable differences in patterns of infant and child feeding in health and during diarrhoea. There was considerable enthusiasm for the use of fermentation and germination of cereals and tubers in some areas (Arua 87% and Kabale 90%). These household food processes were especially recommended for improving dietary intake during diarrhoea. However, these techniques were not used by mothers in Mukono or Mbarara. The advantages of these procedures and possible reasons for differences in their popularity are discussed.

Precursor trichloroethanoato-chromium (III) species in the formation of tris(2,4-pentanedionato)chromium (III)

Abstract: Two precursor species have been identified as responsible for the catalyzing effect of the trichloroethanoate (TCE) anion on the formation of tris(2,4-pentanedionato)chromium(III), Cr(acac)3. The first one is the green intermediate species (GIS) identified as tetrahydroxodecakis-μs-trichloroethanoato-trichloroethanoato-tetraaquopentachro-mium(III), Cr5(OH)4(CCl3COO)11(H2)4. This appears to be the first pentanuclear species reported among the polynuclear alkanoato metal complexes. It reacts at a rapid rate with the 2,4-penaanedtonate, acac, anion to produce a second precursor, the violet-green intermediate species (VGIS) identified as bis(2,4-pentanedionato)-trichloroethanoato-aquochromium(III), Cr(C5H7O2)2(CCl3COO)(H2O). This is attacked by the remainigg acac anion to ultimaelly produce the Cr(acac)3. Thus the effect of the TCE anion in facilitating the formation of Cr(acac)3 is through the ligand coordination catalytic mechanisms.

The desire for children in tropical Africa: the influence of relatives on fertility decisions in Ankole, Uganda.

Abstract: In a survey in Ankole (Uganda) in 1985, 1664 women in samples of the three socioeconomic groups (pastoralists, cultivators and mixed farmers) were asked questions on their reproductive history, and 1029 men questions on educational and wedding costs and their expectations of help from relatives and obligations to help relatives. It is shown that the extended family system allows a great deal of mutual support, while the power of the elders allows them to influence younger married relatives to follow the pronatalist traditions of the society.

Likely effects of salinity on acute copper toxicity to the fisheries of the lake George-Edward basin

Abstract: Alkaline, saline waters are common in the Western Rift Valley of East Africa, in which the lake George-Edward basin is situated. A growing copper mining industry in the area makes it important to understand the limnology of the lakes in this basin before copper pollution occurs. The fish could possibly suffer from acute (or chronic) toxicity if copper levels increase. Abiotic factors within the alkaline, saline waters of this basin reduce the acute toxic effects of copper to fish. The most important factor is salinity, which is a measure of the total dissolved mineral salts. The relatively highly concentrations of mineral salts of these waters will to reduce the effective copper ionic activity through adsorption, precipitation, and ionic interference. The high concentrations of organic compounds in the waters, also complex and chelate the ionic Cu2+, thus reducing further its effective concentration. This will therefore act as a check on the copper toxicity to the fish of the lake basin.

Performance of broiler chicks fed diets containing cottonseed cake.

Abstract: (1990) Performance of Broiler Chicks Fed Diets Containing Cottonseed Cake East African Agricultural and Forestry Journal: Vol 55, No 4, pp 171-177

Synthesis of 1,2-Bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane-bis-(trimethylstannyl)palladium(II) and Its Infrared Spectrum; the Infrared and Raman Spectra of 1,2-Bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane-bis-(trimethylstannyl)platinum(II).

Abstract: The hitherto missing palladium complex (Ph 2  PCH 2 CH 2 PPh 2 )Pd(SnMe 3 ) 2 has been successfully prepared by a simple method involving replacement of the chlorides in the complex (Ph 2 PCH 2 CH 2  PPh 2 )PdCl 2 by Me 3 Sn groups using neat trimethylstannane. The complex is more susceptible to decomposition in non-aqueous solution and less stable to thermolysis than its platinum analogue. The infrared spectra of the two complexes are compared. They show many similar features. The Raman spectrum and proton NMR spectra of the analogous platinum complex in deuterobenzene and in phosphorus tribromide are also reported. The spectra confirm the presence of platinum-tin bonds in the complex. In phosphorus tribromide the platinum complex decomposed giving trimethyltin(lI)bromide and dimethyltin(II)dibromide. A possible reaction leading to the formation of dimethyltin(II)dibromide is proposed. Attempted synthesis of non-chelated palladium-tin complexes by oxidative addition of trimethylstannane to palladium(II) halides and palladium(O) complexes was unsuccessful.

Fiber-Depleted Starch Foods and NIDDM Diabetes

Abstract: The hypothesis that fiber-depleted starch foods are the main factor producing NIDDM diabetes (henceforth called diabetes) started in my mind in 1929 soon after I joined the Kenya Medical Service. It continued on and off in my mind until it culminated in two articles published in 1987, some 59 years later.