Ultrastructure of sperm of the Spotted scat (Scatophagus argus, Linnaeus, 1766) observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

An investigation was conducted to understand the sperm cell morphology and ultrastructure of Spotted scat (Scatophagus argus) through scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The present study reveals that the sperm of S. argus can be differentiated into three major parts - an acrosome-less spherical head, a short mid-piece, and a cylindrical flagellum.

DNA sequence information resolves taxonomic ambiguity of the common mud crab species (Genus Scylla) in Indian waters.

For several years, mud crabs of genus Scylla have been misidentified owing to their high morphological plasticity and the absence of distinct morphological diagnostic characters. The taxonomic confusion of genus Scylla de Haan is considered to be a primary constraint to the development of aquaculture. Although genus Scylla was revised using morphological and genetic characteristics, taxonomy of Scylla species occurring in India is still not clear.

Rheumatic fever prophylaxis in South Africa--is bicillin 1,2 million units every 4 weeks appropriate?

Rheumatic fever is a major health problem in South Africa. Although intramuscular benzathine penicillin (bicillin) 1.2 million units (MU) every 4 weeks is widely used for secondary prophylaxis, studies in other countries have shown a recurrence rate of 3-8% over 5-6 years in patients on this regimen.

Wegener's granulomatosis in an 11-year-old child. A case report.

Early diagnosis and treatment of Wegener's granulomatosis with cyclophosphamide has considerably improved the prognosis in this previously fatal disease. Experience with this disease in an 11-year-old child is reported.

Bilharzial hydronephrosis causing renal failure in a child. A case report.

The clinical presentation and management of a young child with renal failure caused by bilharzial obstructive uropathy is discussed. Children from areas in which bilharzia is endemic have a high incidence of urological disease. Ureteric obstruction from inflammatory reaction will respond to medical treatment, whereas true mechanical obstruction from fibrosis will require surgical intervention.