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PubMed1987

[Antibodies against HIV-2 (LAV-II) in Africa and West Germany].

Antibodies against HIV-2 were tested by indirect immunofluorescence in over 2000 sera from Africa and the Federal Republic of Germany. The specificity of the test for HIV-2 was established by absorption of the sera with HIV-1 infected cells. Antibodies against HIV-2 were found in sera from two of 51 Africans who are living in the FRG. In addition, antibodies against HIV-2 were occasionally found in two of 1396 sera from Central Africa and two of 322 from West Africa. Cross-reacting antibodies were found in four of 189 high risk patients from the FRG who had HIV-1 infection, these antibodies no longer being present after absorption. It would therefore seem that HIV-2 infections are still rare among German risk groups.

Absorption↗
PubMed2002

A back migration from Asia to sub-Saharan Africa is supported by high-resolution analysis of human Y-chromosome haplotypes.

The variation of 77 biallelic sites located in the nonrecombining portion of the Y chromosome was examined in 608 male subjects from 22 African populations. This survey revealed a total of 37 binary haplotypes, which were combined with microsatellite polymorphism data to evaluate internal diversities and to estimate coalescence ages of the binary haplotypes. The majority of binary haplotypes showed a nonuniform distribution across the continent. Analysis of molecular variance detected a high level of interpopulation diversity (PhiST=0.342), which appears to be partially related to the geography (PhiCT=0.230). In sub-Saharan Africa, the recent spread of a set of haplotypes partially erased pre-existing diversity, but a high level of population (PhiST=0.332) and geographic (PhiCT=0.179) structuring persists. Correspondence analysis shows that three main clusters of populations can be identified: northern, eastern, and sub-Saharan Africans. Among the latter, the Khoisan, the Pygmies, and the northern Cameroonians are clearly distinct from a tight cluster formed by the Niger-Congo-speaking populations from western, central western, and southern Africa. Phylogeographic analyses suggest that a large component of the present Khoisan gene pool is eastern African in origin and that Asia was the source of a back migration to sub-Saharan Africa. Haplogroup IX Y chromosomes appear to have been involved in such a migration, the traces of which can now be observed mostly in northern Cameroon.

Africa↗
PubMed2000

Origin of HIV type 1 in colonial French Equatorial Africa?

Sociocultural factors during the postcolonial period have been implicated as paramount in generating conditions that promoted both the origin and subsequent epidemic spread of HIV-1 in Africa. We suggest, however, that the origin of the disease may lie in the interaction between colonial practices (e.g., labor camps, nonsterile vaccination campaigns) and traditional bushmeat hunting in French Equatorial Africa. Both the epidemiology of HIV-2 and the colonial history of West Africa appear more complex, but similar conditions existed there and may have contributed to the origin of HIV-2. Focusing the search for the origins of HIV-1 and HIV-2 on this earlier time period may contribute to understanding the evolution of the HIV viruses and the dynamics of emerging diseases.

Adaptation, Physiological↗
PubMed2002

HIV type 1 strains from East and West Africa are intermixed in Sudan.

The genetic subtypes of HIV-1 in the Sudan epidemic have not been characterized. Here we report the partial sequencing and analysis of 30 strains collected from HIV-1-positive patients and blood donors in Khartoum in 1998 and 1999. From analysis of partial pol and env sequences, it was determined that 50% were subtype D and 30% were subtype C. Of interest, some subtype D clustered with those from East Africa whereas others joined subtype D from West Africa. Subtype A, subtype B, and three unique recombinants were also found, some partially unclassifiable. One unclassified strain matched another reported previously from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sudan borders nine other African countries, and has suffered more than 20 years of civil strife with large population displacements. The intermixing of HIV-1 subtypes previously separated in Africa may be occurring there, with the potential to generate novel new strains by recombination.

Adult↗
PubMed2004

Development and application of a high-throughput HIV type 1 genotyping assay to identify CRF02_AG in West/West Central Africa.

In West/West Central Africa, CRF02_AG is the most prevalent HIV-1 strain and circulates in the milieu of rare subtypes, circulating recombinant forms (CRFs), and unique recombinant forms (URFs). The molecular complexity of HIV-1 epidemics in this region and the need to extensively sample large populations, such as in the case of vaccine trials, pose seemingly conflicting requirements between full-genome sequencing and high-throughput low-resolution assays. Here we describe the development and evaluation of a multiregion hybridization assay (MHAcrf02) for the efficient genotyping of CRF02_AG in West/West Central Africa. Subtype A, G, and CRF02_AG-specific fluorescent probes were designed flanking five recombination breakpoints in CRF02_AG and were used in real-time PCRs. A panel representing West/West Central African HIV-1 genetic diversity was evaluated by MHAcrf02. The sample set, previously characterized by full-genome sequencing, included CRF02_AG and CRF02_AG-containing recombinants (n = 28), other subtypes, CRFs, and URFs (n = 34). DNA from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, cocultures, and plasmids was used as template. When the patterns of probe reactivity were evaluated. CRF02_AG was identified with a 100% specificity and sensitivity. In conclusion, MHAcrf02 will permit more efficient characterization of HIV-1 in West/West Central Africa, where CRF02_AG is an important strain. Together with other regional genotyping assays MHAcrf02 will contribute to the development of a global picture of HIV-1 diversity and geographic distribution, providing a strong foundation for intervention, including vaccine development.

Africa, Central↗
PubMedDate not supplied

The control of measles in tropical Africa: a review of past and present efforts.

Measles in tropical Africa is endemic and cyclical, with a high incidence that usually peaks during the dry seasons. Measles may be a contributing factor in 10% of all deaths among African children. Several problems have hindered measles immunization programs in Africa; these include difficulties in maintaining the cold chain, poor epidemiologic surveillance, and the logistical problems involved in reaching a population that is 80% rural. The United States Agency for International Development and the World Health Organization both have programs that are helping to increase immunization coverage and to solve the problems just mentioned. Many countries have begun to train their own personnel to administer immunization programs. However, because of limited staff and equipment, a high birth rate, and an uncertain social situation, no firm predictions can be made concerning the permanent control of measles in tropical Africa.

Africa↗
PubMed1994

Forced movements of population and health hazards in tropical Africa.

Significant interactions between disease and population mobility have been demonstrated in tropical Africa in recent decades. Problems arising are greater than in the past. During the last two decades forced movements have become important. These are associated with refugees, coerced resettlement and victims of environmental catastrophe. The health hazards associated with them are reviewed from medical and social science literature for North East Africa (refugees and resettlement) and for West Africa (pastoralists affected by drought). Political, social and economic settings are of importance but tend to receive only limited attention. There is need for more social science input in studying and ameliorating problems arising from health hazards associated with and exacerbated by forced movements of population.

Africa, Western↗
PubMed2007

Late Pleistocene human skull from Hofmeyr, South Africa, and modern human origins.

The lack of Late Pleistocene human fossils from sub-Saharan Africa has limited paleontological testing of competing models of recent human evolution. We have dated a skull from Hofmeyr, South Africa, to 36.2 +/- 3.3 thousand years ago through a combination of optically stimulated luminescence and uranium-series dating methods. The skull is morphologically modern overall but displays some archaic features. Its strongest morphometric affinities are with Upper Paleolithic (UP) Eurasians rather than recent, geographically proximate people. The Hofmeyr cranium is consistent with the hypothesis that UP Eurasians descended from a population that emigrated from sub-Saharan Africa in the Late Pleistocene.

Africa South of the Sahara↗
PubMed1964

MITES (FAMILY TROMBICULIDAE) PARASITIZING BIRDS MIGRATING FROM AFRICA TO EUROPE.

The mechanisms of dissemination of arthropod-borne human and animal pathogens are of considerable interest to the epidemiologist, veterinarian and biologist. Birds which are hosts to such pathogens and their arthropod vectors could transport them over long distances during their spring and autumn migratory flights.In April 1961, birds migrating from Africa to Europe were collected in south-western Spain and examined for ectoparasites and antibodies to arboviruses. Fully engorged larvae of two species of trombiculid mites unknown in Europe (genera Neoschoengastia and Blankaartia) but found in Africa were collected from two of the migrating birds (redstart and little bittern), suggesting that the birds were carrying the mites from Africa to Europe.Trombiculid mites are the proven vectors of scrub typhus; they have also been implicated in the transmission of human haemorrhagic nephroso-nephritis. The finding of the mite larvae on migrating birds is therefore of some epidemiological interest and underlines the importance of obtaining more data on the dispersal of trombiculids by migrating birds.

Africa↗
PubMed2005

The manifestation of AIDS in Africa: an epidemiological overview.

The HIV epidemic in Africa has changed over the last decade and the incidence of AIDS, which was very low at the beginning of nineties, is now dramatically increasing. In this paper, we analyze the current situation of AIDS epidemiology on the continent, based on data generated by the antenatal care surveillance systems. As described here, the spread and prevalence of HIV differ in each African country, with South Africa now facing the worst situation. In addition, we have focused our attention on the modes and risks of viral transmission, highlighting the spread of HIV in particular subpopulations, which, for different reasons, prove to be more affected by the epidemic, such as sex workers and children. Genotype evolution and distribution in the various geographical areas are also considered. From this brief overview, it appears clear that poverty, the lack of technologies and inadequate resources, due mostly to social and economic instability, are widening the already existent gap between Africa and industrialized countries.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome↗
PubMed1999

Are the oral manifestations associated with HIV infection really relevant to the practising South African dentist? A comparative analysis of oral HIV studies in South Africa.

This comparative analytical review of oral HIV in South Africa, Africa and the West shows that relatively little work has been done on the African continent in this field of study. Direct epidemiological comparisons of these studies with each other are difficult but were made between these regions for overall prevalence values, mode of transmission and individual lesion presentation (candidiasis, oral hairy leukoplakia, periodontal disease, Kaposi's sarcoma, salivary gland disease, oral ulcers and other lesions). Apparent differences exist between the reported prevalence values of oral candidiasis, periodontal disease, Kaposi's sarcoma and tuberculous ulcers, the significance of which is uncertain. There is a need to standardise research methodologies. This would enable appropriate comparisons to be made and a better understanding of the implications of the oral HIV disease process in South Africa and elsewhere on the continent.

AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections↗
PubMed1981

A report on the occurrence of septicaemia caused by Pasteurella multocida type E in cattle from Southern Africa.

Haemorrhagic septicaemia caused by Pasteurella multocida type E was diagnosed at post-mortem examination in a bovine originating from South West Africa. This is the first report of this disease occurring in South West Africa. The history, clinical symptoms and gross and microscopic pathology of this case are described. The pathologic features included generalized congestion, subcutaneous oedema especially of the submandibular area, fibrinous arthritis, tendovaginitis and myositis with an accompanying lymphadenitis of the regional lymph nodes and a haemorrhagic pleuritis and pericarditis. The epizootiology of the disease in South West Africa as compared with that in Central African and Asia, where the disease is common, is discussed. A case of septicaemia caused by P. multocida type E in a calf from a group of calves originating from the Transvaal, is also reported. A post-mortem examination on this calf revealed moderate pulmonary oedema and generalized congestion of the organs and musculature. The latter lesions suggest a septicaemic condition. Other calves in this group revealed one or more of the following lesions: myositis, fibrinopurulent pneumonia or fibrinous peritonitis.

Africa↗
PubMed1996

The illegal alien question in South Africa: scope, issues and policy.

"Of the many problems facing South Africa, perhaps one of the most important is that of the illegal alien. The scope, issues and policy implications of the illegal alien problem are examined. Different geographical streams of alien immigration are identified and profiled. Official policy responses are reviewed. The pressures for action to be taken against the rising numbers of illegal aliens in South Africa are discussed. In particular, the cost implications of illegal aliens capturing scarce resources and employment opportunities are set against other pressing demands encapsulated in the Reconstruction and Development Programme."

Africa↗
PubMed1999

Fortress South Africa and the deconstruction of apartheid's migration regime.

South Africa's new democratic government inherited a system of cross-border migration management rooted in the abusive practices of the past. Under apartheid, employers such as mining companies and White farmers, were exempted from normal immigration legislation. The result was legislation and practices that are in direct conflict with the new government's commitment to transparency, equality, accountability, and fundamental human rights. The practices permitted by this system have continued after 1994. This paper documents the continuities in international migration policy and practice between the old and new South Africa and highlights the dilemmas which the government faces in transforming inherited policy. The paper critically analyzes the regulatory framework of the bilateral labor agreements and the Aliens Control Act. The paper then highlights policy proposals that contravene the discourse of the fortress and assesses, pessimistically, the likelihood of their implementation before the 1999 elections.

Africa↗
PubMed1996

International migration: a case study of South Africa.

"South Africa, which has traditionally been a popular destination for international migrants, is currently experiencing a net loss of legal migrants, but an enormous gain of illegal immigrants. This article analyses trends in legal international migration to and from South Africa and provides a demographic profile of legal immigrants and emigrants. The reasons for and results of the influx of illegal immigrants into the country are discussed, and possible policies and strategies to reduce this influx are presented."

Africa↗
PubMed1990

The reorganization of mine labor recruitment in Southern Africa: evidence from Botswana.

"The past decade has been one of unprecedented change in the pattern and organization of mine labor recruitment in Southern Africa. Using detailed data on recruitment patterns in Botswana, this article supports the view that recent changes have initiated a self-sustaining trend whereby certain flows of foreign labor into South Africa will decline unabated into the foreseeable future. This results from a shift in general recruiting policy from one of encouraging external migrant labor flows--by expanding recruitment networks and employing a variable and transient workforce--to one of retrenchment and labor stabilization biased in favor of internalized labor supplies."

Africa↗
PubMed1988

Socioeconomic factors affecting fertility in the developing countries and of the developing population groups in South Africa.

"In the present paper...socioeconomic factors affecting the fertility of the developing population groups in South Africa, are discussed and compared with findings [for developing countries] from the WFS [World Fertility Survey]." Data for South Africa are from an independent survey conducted during 1981-1982. "The relationship between socioeconomic factors and three dependent variables (marital fertility, desired family size, and current contraceptive use) is analysed.... The analyses are restricted to the examination of the extent to which the wife's differentials in fertility and associated variables related to education, employment status, and rural/urban residence persist, when other socioeconomic characteristics of the couple are controlled statistically."

Africa↗
PubMed1997

Nutrition surveillance and intervention, South Africa.

Under the apartheid regime there was no national framework for development in South Africa. Now, for the first time in South Africa, the government of national unity has provided a framework for development. This is a people-centered development strategy that calls for intersectoral collaboration and a vision for community involvement. Within this framework, the Department of Health has developed an integrated nutrition program with a health-based component and a community-based aspect. There is now a movement towards community-based program and nutrition surveillance. Although it is still early, there are some lessons that can be learned from these programs: growth monitoring can be used to promote community-based surveillance and to provide information upon which the communities can act; training, supervision, and information dissemination is essential, and it is also important to identify indicators to monitor success; building on existing infrastructure and capabilities within communities and linking up with NGOs and other organizations who have long-standing relationships with the communities is essential; identifying and capitalizing on indigenous resources and capabilities within countries is important; and there has to be political commitment.

Africa↗