The malaria vectors of the Lower Shire valley,Malawi

The aim of this study was to characterise breeding sites and climatic factors that influence the abundance of malaria vectors in the Lower Shire valley, Malawi. We regularly sampled adult and larval mosquitoes over the transition periods between the wet and dry seasons during 2000 and 2001. Three potential malaria vectors, An. arabiensis, An. gambine sensu stricto and An. funestus, and a fourth non-vector species An. quadriannulatus, were identified. (This is the first record of An. quadriannulatus in Malawi). These four species bred predominately in larger water bodies, particularly rice paddies, and to a lesser extent in boreholes and puddles. Smaller temporary pools and puddles evaporated too quickly to permit the completion of larval development. Abundance of An. gambiae s.l. was closely associated with minimum temperatures. We discuss the relevance of the findings to malaria vector control in Malawi.     

Blood levels of thyroid hormones, insulin and cortisol in children with retardation of physical development in malnutrition

The content of thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), insulin and cortisol was studied in the blood of children with growth retardation A 60%-increase in T3 concentrations was detected whereas T4 levels remained unchanged. Insulin concentration in the blood reduced by 62%, this being an early indicator of changes in anabolic processes. Cortisol levels decreased by 25% as well. The results suggest that changes in hormone levels in children with growth retardation are associated with adaptation reactions of the body.     

Urachal remnants: sonographic demonstration in children

On 62 of 100 pediatric bladder sonograms a small, elliptical, hypoechoic structure was observed on the middle of the anterosuperior surface of the urinary bladder. One of the these structures was removed surgically, and pathologic examination disclosed a normal urachal remnant. Since it is a common sonographic finding in children, it should not be mistaken for a pathologic process unless it is accompanied by signs and symptoms of infection or bladder obstruction.