Development of a dipstick assay for detection of Leishmania-specific canine antibodies.

A dipstick assay, based on Leishmania infantum antigen, for the rapid detection of Leishmania-specific antibodies in canine serum samples was developed and evaluated. After determination of optimal dipstick test conditions, test performance was compared with two existing serological tests, i.e.

Development of a fast agglutination screening test (FAST) for the detection of anti-Leishmania antibodies in dogs.

A fast agglutination screening test (FAST) for the detection of anti-Leishmania antibodies in serum samples from dogs with visceral leishmaniosis was developed. The test is based on the direct agglutination test (DAT), but combines a higher parasite concentration with a smaller test volume. In contrast to the DAT, the FAST makes use of only one serum dilution and the results can be read within 3 h as opposed to 18-20 h for the DAT.

Changed prognosis of breech-presenting low birthweight infants.

We have compared the mortality and morbidity of low birthweight breech-presenting singleton infants born in the Coventry Maternity Hospital during the years 1973 and 1974 with those born during 1979 and 1980. During this period changes in management have included an increase in the caesarean section rate and the continuing development of methods of intensive care for the newborn infants. The neonatal mortality rate has fallen but the increased survival rate is accounted for largely by the survival of handicapped infants.

The prognosis of breech delivered singleton low birth weight infants.

An estimate of the probability of long term neurological sequelae in breech delivered low birth weight infants is an important factor in deciding on the method of delivery in breech presentation. From the hospital records we have identified those infants who during the years 1973 and 1974 were live born of low birth weight (under 2500 g) and who were delivered by the breech. Of 51 infants, 36 survived the neonatal period.