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First molecular detection of R. conorii, R. aeschlimannii, and R. massiliae in ticks from Algeria.

Ticks collected in Northern Algeria between May 2001 and November 2003 were tested by PCR for the presence of Rickettsia spp. DNA using primer amplifying gltA and OmpA genes. Three different spotted fever group rickettsias were amplified from these ticks: R. Conorii subsp. P. conorii strain Malish in Rhipicephalus sanguineus, R. aeschlimannii in Hyalomma marginatum, and R. massiliae in Rhipicephalus turanicus. Our results confirm the presence of R. conorii in ticks in Algeria and provide the first detection of R. aeschlimannii and R. massiliae in Algeria.

Algeria↗

[Bovine hypodermosis in north-eastern Algeria: prevalence and intensity of infestation].

Between 1989 and 1997 different factors related to warble fly infestation (prevalence, intensity, climate, breed) were studied in north-eastern Algeria. Mean prevalence during the period was 76%. This figure was obtained from a cattle market survey of four different regions (Jijel, Constantine, Guelma, and El Tarf). One-hundred percent of the herds were found to be infested in El Tarf and 61% of animals were infested. Within a herd, the intensity of infestation decreased with the age of the cattle. The mean number of warbles per animal decreased as reinfestations occurred. The peak of the emergence of warbles observed between January and March was progressively delayed in the older animals. Two species of Hypoderma were present in cattle in Algeria (H. bovis and H. lineatum) with a predominance of H. lineatum (63%) in the semi-arid area (Batna) and a majority of H. bovis (75%) in humid area (Jijel). Warbles appeared earlier in Batna (October) than in Jijel (November). The Prim'Holstein breed was more susceptible to the warble fly infestation than Montbeliard or local breeds. The implementation of a control programme for hypodermosis in Algeria is urgent. Control can be achieved through a mass treatment of cattle. This approach must take into account the factors described in this study which influence the epidemiology of the disease.

Algeria↗

[Medical General Inspector Debenedetti and Algeria (1956-1961)].

M.G.I. Debenedetti was appointed as director of French Military Health Service in June 1956 for seven years, during the war of Algeria where he travelled eight times. Thus, he surveyed the good organisation of the Military Health Service in Algeria from 1956 to 1961 when he had his last journey in this country. This paper tries to report his career, his survey of the French Military Health Service on the theatre of operations, of the hospitals and of the Free Medical Care of Algeria.

Algeria↗

[Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Algeria].

The normal level of G6PD activity of the red cells is 6.6 +/- 1.6 i.u/g Hb in men and 6.9 +/- 1.6 i.u./g Hb in women. The histogram of the distribution in the population is not symmetrical. G6PD deficiency is present in Algeria at the national level of 3% (+/- 0.5). The level is less high in the mountainous areas of arab culture, higher in the berber culture and in the Shara. Numerous new variants have been detected in Algeria. The G6PD deficiency predominating in Algeria is of Kabyle type, followed by Laghouat and El-Qued types. Types A-, A+ and Ibaden Austin of negro origin exist in the Sahara population. The Mediterranean type is not found in the Algerian population. The clinical manifestations are rare.

Algeria↗

[Epidemiology of viral hepatitis in Algeria].

Viral hepatitis is endemoepidemic in Algeria. Recent serologic and epidemiological surveys have specified the importance of A, B and non A non B viruses respectively and brought out some details. -- Hepatitis A is very common: 96% of individuals have anti-HAV antibodies. Patients come into contact with the virus before the age of 10. No symptoms are found in 95% of cases. Icteric hepatitis occurs in infants. -- Hepatitis B infection includes 40 to 50% of icteric hepatitis in adults. Clinical and biological symptoms are similar to those described in the literature. The prevalence of HBs Ag carriers is within the range of 1,8 to 2,8%, but reach high level in Eastern and Saharian Regions of Algeria. It increases with age and low socio-economic status. In hospital environment, laboratory technicians and room servants is the most frequently contaminated personnel. -- Non A non B hepatitis is so far the least known in Algeria. In 1981, an epidemic of water-borne non A non B hepatitis was reported.

Adolescent↗

[Differences in the nutritional and health status among illegal immigrant adolescents from Morocco and Algeria].

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: We decided to determine if there were differences in the nutritional and health status among illegal immigrant adolescents from Morocco and Algeria. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study (1997-2003); 120 male adolescents (86 Moroccans and 34 Algerians) admitted to protection centers of Zaragoza City were assessed. The nutritional status was assessed using the anthropometric method. The health status was assessed according to a standardized medical and laboratory protocol. RESULTS: The mean age (SDU) of the Moroccans was 15.9 (1.2) years and the mean age of the Algerians was 15.6 (1.5) years. Significantly lower values of weight (p = 0.027), upper arm circumference (p = 0.0005) and subscapular skinfold thickness (p = 0.023) along with a significantly higher incidence of ferritin isolated deficiency (p = 0.027; odds ratio = 7.54; 95% CI, 0.96-59.32) were observed in the Moroccan adolescents. CONCLUSIONS: Illegal immigrant adolescents from Morocco had a significantly lower nutritional and iron reserves status than that observed in illegal immigrant adolesents from Algeria.

Adolescent↗

[Results of a national tuberculosis survey carried out from 1980 to 1989 in Algeria].

SETTING: Algeria, where mass BCG vaccination is performed at birth, has a high prevalence of tuberculosis. OBJECTIVE: To measure the scale of the tuberculosis problem and the impact of the National Tuberculosis Control Programme set up in 1972, a tuberculin survey was performed at regular intervals from 1980-1989 in Algeria. DESIGN: The survey took place in the schools of five communities of differing socio-economic levels. During two visits five years apart, respectively 18,960 and 30,738 children aged 8.5 years were tested. During the second visit, 10,301 children aged 12.5 were included in the survey. RESULTS: The prevalence of infection in children with no scar, non-vaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown, was 4.05% in 1980-1984 and 2.71% in 1985-1989. With an annual decrease of 7.8%, the annual risk of tuberculosis infection was 0.34% in 1980-1984 and 0.22% in 1985-1989. CONCLUSION: The results of the survey seem to indicate the continued abatement of the tuberculosis problem in the years to come. They also show that tuberculin surveys at regular intervals can be performed in high-prevalence countries where there is mass BCG vaccination at birth.

Algeria↗

Level of natural and artificial radioactivity in Algeria.

A national environmental sampling program was carried out during 1993 to determine natural and artificial radionuclides contents in the (0-15 cm) upper layer of the soil. The main objective was to establish a radioactive reference level in the whole territory, since 131I, 134Cs and 137Cs were detected in most of the analysed samples collected right after the Chernobyl accident (May 1986). Soil samples were analysed by direct counting by gamma-ray spectrometry. In addition, terrestrial gamma-ray dose rates in air have been measured out of doors throughout Algeria. In each of the 48 administrative divisions of the country selected sites were chosen to collect soil samples and measure gamma-ray dose rates. The gamma-emitting radionuclides resulting from the radioactive decay of 238U and 232Th, 40K and 137Cs were detected in most of the analysed samples. Radioactivity concentrations in Bq kg-1 dry mass in soil samples of 226Ra, 214Pb, 214Bi, 212Pb, 228Ac, 40K and 137Cs range between (5-176), (2-107), (3-65), (2-97), (3-144), (36-1405) and (0.3-41) respectively. In addition, six selected soil samples were analysed to determine plutonium isotopes contents. Radioactivity concentrations in Bq kg-1 dry mass of 238Pu and 239 + 240Pu vary between (0.012-0.013) and (0.24-0.61) respectively. The dose rates in air measured over the whole country were found to range between 20 and 133 nGy h-1. Presence of 137Cs has been clearly observed. An approach has been made to determine its origin, considering the global fallout, the Chernobyl accident and the French nuclear bomb tests in the 60s as the main potential sources. It is concluded that Algeria has indeed been affected by the Chernobyl accident.

Algeria↗

Intraspecific variation in Schistosoma haematobium from Algeria.

A comparative analysis has been carried out between two populations of Schistosoma haematobium using the same intermediate snail host, Bulinus truncatus, but originating from two distinct ecological areas of Algeria: Khemis-El-Khechna in a sub-humid mediterranean zone and Djanet in a saharan bioclimatic zone. Four parameters have been studied: the growth rate of adult worms, size and shape of the eggs, chronobiology of cercarial emergence and the compatibility with the intermediate host. Results showing divergences for all the characters studied are discussed for the origin of this intraspecific polymorphism of S. haematobium in Algeria.

Algeria↗

Blood micronutrients in Algeria, relationships with sex and age.

Despite trace elements and vitamins are major public health problems in some African countries, there are few studies reporting micronutrient status in North Africa. Therefore, it could be interesting to evaluate plasma concentrations of vitamin A, E and beta-cartene, along with zinc, copper, selenium erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in Algeria. Volunteers were randomly recruited in Constantine, Batna and Mila. Vitamins, trace elements and enzymes were measured in the University Hospital of Grenoble. 455 persons were included in the study. Subjects were divided in 3 groups: group I: 15 girls and 12 boys who were 6 to 12.9 years old, group II: 190 women and 192 men 13 to 49.9 years old, group III: 24 women and 24 men 50 to 65 years old. Plasma concentrations of micronutrients and enzymes are close to those commonly observed in Europe, except for vitamin A concentrations. Indeed, retinol levels are 30-35% lower than those reported in European countries, moreover almost 8% of the population showed retinol concentrations less than 1.05 mumol/l. beta-Carotene levels were also lower than in the French average population. Ten per cent of the population had plasma zinc levels lower than 10.6 mumol/l. Vitamin E, copper and selenium status seems satisfactory in Algeria. Vitamin A is not a public health problem, however a significant percentage of residents exhibits impaired vitamin A levels and may benefit from retinol supplementation. Larger studies are needed, and particularly in children, to detect possible higher prevalence of vitamin A deficiency in poor socio-economical classes and in inner geographic areas.

Adolescent↗

Pilot metaproteomic profiling reveals bacterial diversity and potential medical and veterinary relevance of tick microbiomes in northern Algeria.

Ticks are major ectoparasites and vectors of pathogens affecting humans, livestock, and wildlife. They harbor diverse microbial communities that may influence tick biology and interactions with microorganisms; however, functional information on tick-associated microbiomes remains limited, particularly in North Africa. In this pilot study, we applied a metaproteomic approach based on high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry to characterize bacterial communities associated with three tick species collected in Algeria: Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato, Hyalomma aegyptium, and Hyalomma dromedarii. Peptide spectra were assigned to taxa using a two-step database search strategy based on NCBInr, and bacterial composition and relative abundance were compared across tick species and sampling locations. A total of 40 bacterial genera belonging to 32 families and four phyla were identified. Microbiome composition differed significantly between tick genera and collection locations, suggesting an influence of species-specific and geographical factors on microbial community structure. Dominant genera included Streptomyces, Bacillus, Clostridium, Escherichia, Flavobacterium, Paenibacillus, and Providencia. Peptides related to Coxiella spp. were frequently detected, consistent with previous reports of Coxiella-like endosymbionts in ticks. This pilot study provides a first metaproteomic characterization of tick-associated communities in Algeria. The results reveal species- and location-associated differences in microbial composition and highlight the potential of metaproteomics for exploring tick-associated microbiomes in North Africa.

Animals↗

[A new enzymatic variant of Leishmania infantum Nicolle, 1908, agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in northern Algeria].

For the first time, the pathogenic agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the North of Algeria has been identified as Leishmania infantum s.1. The parasite was found to be a newly discovered enzymatic variant (zymodeme 24) differing by two electromorphs from a variant isolated in France (zymodeme 11) from the same type of lesion. Until now, the dermotropic zymodemes of Algeria and France have not been seen in cases of visceral leishmaniasis of the Mediterranean Basin.

Algeria↗

Prevalence of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli from serotype O157 and other attaching and effacing Escherichia coli on bovine carcasses in Algeria.

AIMS: Bovine meat is the principal source of human contamination of attaching and effacing Escherichia coli, including enterohaemorrhagic E. coli O157. The aim was to study the prevalence of these strains on bovine carcasses in Algeria. METHODS AND RESULTS: Two-hundred and thirty carcasses were swabbed and analysed by classical microbiological methods for total E. coli counts and for the presence of pathogenic E. coli. The E. coli counts were high, with a 75th percentile of 444.75 CFUs cm(-2). For pathogenic E. coli, more than 7% of the tested carcasses were positive for E. coli O157. Eighteen E. coli O157 strains were isolated and typed by multiplex PCR. The main isolated pathotype (78%) was eae+ stx2+ ehxA+. In addition to E. coli O157, other attaching and effacing E. coli (AEEC) were also detected from carcasses by colony hybridization after pre-enrichment and plating on sorbitol MacConkey agar using eae, stx1 and stx2 probes. Thirty carcasses (13%) on the 230 analysed harboured at least one colony positive for one of the tested probes. These positive carcasses were different from those positive for E. coli O157. Sixty-six colonies (2.9%) positive by colony hybridization were isolated. The majority (60.6%) of the positive strains harboured an enteropathogenic E. coli-like pathotype (eae+ stx-). Only three enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC)-like (eae+ stx1+) colonies were isolated from the same carcass. These strains did not belong to classical EHEC serotypes. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the global hygiene of the slaughterhouse was low, as indicated by the high level of E. coli count. The prevalence of both E. coli O157 and other AEEC was also high, representing a real hazard for consumers. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This is the first study of this type in Algeria, which indicates that the general hygiene of the slaughterhouse must be improved.

Abattoirs↗

Serological and virological studies on the infectious bovine rhinotracheitis in Algeria.

Clinical cases of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis and infectious pustular vulvovaginitis were observed within the cattle population in Algeria. The isolation and identification of six bovine herpes virus type 1 strains from diseased cattle and the serological surveys undertaken in the central region of the country on 2948 sera revealed a 20.5% incidence of IBR infections in Algeria. The DNA restriction profiles of the isolated strains showed the existence of only the BHV1-2a subtype associated with the endemic infections in Algerian cattle. These results emphasized also the lack of correlation between the observed clinical symptoms and the DNA restriction pattern of the isolated herpes virus strain. The plans for disease control are based mainly on the application of strict control measures at the borders for avoiding the introduction of other BHV1 subtypes.

Algeria↗

Phenotypical and genotypical characteristics of root-nodulating bacteria isolated from annual Medicago spp. in Soummam Valley (Algeria).

AIMS: In the framework of agro-pastoral system management using local annual medics coupled with their native root-nodulating bacteria to extend pasture zones, increase forage yields and improve ovine and bovine breeding in Algeria, we investigated diversity of rhizobia from annual Medicago spp. (Medicago arabica, Medicago polymorpha, Medicago minima and Medicago orbicularis). METHODS AND RESULTS: Ten nodulating-isolates were characterized by morphological, cultural, physiological and biochemical features, SDS-PAGE analysis and PCR-RFLP of 16S rDNA. The results show some degree of genetic diversity among the isolates; three can be affiliated to Sinorhizobium meliloti, one to Rhizobium galegae and six were separate. CONCLUSIONS: Local annual medics would have a high degree of specificity in their symbiotic interaction. Furthermore, our results support the presence of Rh. galegae in the Mediterranean region. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: This work is a preliminary step towards selection of efficient symbiotic Medicago-rhizobia to develop inoculants for management of agro-pastoral systems using local annual medics in Algeria.

Algeria↗

Reemerging threat of epidemic typhus in Algeria.

We report a case of epidemic typhus in a patient from the Batna region of Algeria, who presented with generalized febrile exanthema. The clinical diagnosis was confirmed by serological cross-adsorption followed by Western blotting. Our report emphasizes the threat of epidemic typhus in the highlands of Algeria.

Algeria↗

Bacterial zoonoses and infective endocarditis, Algeria.

Blood culture-negative endocarditis is common in Algeria. We describe the etiology of infective endocarditis in this country. Samples from 110 cases in 108 patients were collected in Algiers. Blood cultures were performed in Algeria. Serologic and molecular analysis of valves was performed in France. Infective endocarditis was classified as definite in 77 cases and possible in 33. Causative agents were detected by blood cultures in 48 cases. All 62 blood culture-negative endocarditis cases were tested by serologic or molecular methods or both. Of these, 34 tested negative and 28 had an etiologic agent identified. A total of 18 infective endocarditis cases were caused by zoonotic and arthropodborne bacteria, including Bartonella quintana (14 cases), Brucella melitensis (2 cases), and Coxiella burnetii (2 cases). Our data underline the high prevalence of infective endocarditis caused by Bartonella quintana in northern Africa and the role of serologic and molecular tools for the diagnosis of blood culture-negative endocarditis.

Adolescent↗

[Epidemiology of sheep pox in Algeria].

Sheep pox constitutes a major animal health problem in Algeria, despite the implementation of various national control campaigns over several decades. On the basis of epidemiological data provided by the Veterinary Services of Algeria from 1984 to 1997, the authors performed a statistical survey to determine possible correlations between factors responsible for the persistence of sheep pox, in particular seasonal and climatic variables. The authors propose an explanation for the variations observed and recommend a control programme which would be more appropriate to the agro-pastoral and bioclimatic conditions of the country.

Algeria↗