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Universities are under more pressure than ever before to attract more students and move up in rankings. Due to bounded space and rising plot values in city areas, a spatial configuration that meets user needs has become a very important topic for well-prepared and spatially suitable educational settings. However, today there is a rapid pace in the establishment of universities in Egypt. Insufficient use of university campus outdoor spaces (UCOS) is considered one of the main negative impacts on social quality in these universities in Egypt. This study aims to evaluate the social qualities according to the Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS in The American University in Cairo (AUC). The research is based on using integrated observational and computational methods in different UCOS. Observational methods are applied through behavioral mapping and movement tracing. Computational methods are applied through space syntax software. The AUC campus is selected as a case study because its design is based on different types of UCOS. The methodology follows three successive steps. Firstly, a field observation of the most used UCOS was undertaken. Secondly, a spatial analysis examining the potential effect of the campus spatial configuration was conducted. Finally, a comparative analytical approach that illustrates the relationship between Islamic spatial configurations of UCOS and activity categories according to user behaviors was taken. The research shows the considered types of UCOS and their ranking according to the observational and computational methods that achieve the highest values for social qualities.

A set of parametric studies by using the Abaqus software is conducting to investigate the effective method to seal the CWO sewer from the tunneling process. These methods include: (i) two deep grouted walls, (ii) adjacent slurry piles, (iii) bored reinforced concrete piles assisted with slurry piles, and (iv) grouted block confining the twin tunnel wall. Based on the results of parametric studies. Most of the protective studied technique was effective on reducing the tunneling effect on the ground movements.

Purpose. The target of this study is divided into two parts. The first part is concerned with capability of numerical model to simulate the tunneling process. The second part is related to studying the interaction mechanism between the tunnel, protection technique, and soil. This study themes are investigated by analyzing different protection technique configuration, considering different stiffness of the grouted wall, and applying different interface coefficient between the wall and the soil. Methods. The method used in this study to check the accuracy of the proposed numerical model is 4-D ABAQUS program. The typical excavation of a tunnel is simulated step by step with an assumed rate of tunnel advancement (0.5 to 1.5 m/hr). The soil material utilized in this model is elastic perfectly plastic (the Mohr-Сoulomb criterion), while elastic material is modeled as solid element (S4R) adopted for lining, grouting, filling gaps, shielding, constructing piles, and jet grouted wall. Findings. Results showed that the closer jet grouting to the tunnel with embedded length of 1.5 times tunnel diameter, the better effect on reducing the lateral deformation and bending moment generated on piles. Otherwise, increasing wall thickness more than double grouted column diameter would not affect its shielding efficiency. Furthermore, either increasing or decreasing friction coefficient even if rough between the grouted wall and soil had no effect on the pile behavior. Additionally, applying Mohr-Coulomb criteria for grouted wall with high stiffness allowed realistic response of the pile group. Originality.Capability of the proposed model is verified by back analysis of Changsha Subway Line 1 project, where the shield tunnel would be constructed near existing pile groups of L off-ramp of the Xinzhong Road viaduct. Practical implications. Increasing grouted wall configuration is more effective than mechanical properties or its interface coefficient with surrounded soil in mitigating tunneling effect on nearby piles. Keywords: tunneling, jet grouting, gield measurements, ABAQUS, Changsha Subway Line 1

Objective: To evaluate the anti-aflatoxin effects of Ginger and Nutritox® in white Pekin ducklings. Design: Randomized experimental study Animals: Ninty- one-day-old white Pekin ducklings. Procedures: Ducklings were alienated randomly into six equal groups, each group in 3 replicates (each replicate, n=5). Control group G1) was fed on commercial broiler basal diet without any medications, while other experimental groups, namely 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 were received diet containing: G2) basal diet (BD) + 300 ppb AF (aflatoxin); G3) BD + 300 ppb AF + 250 mg kg-1 Gr (Ginger); G4) BD +300 ppb AF +1gm/kg feed Nutritox®; G5) BD + 250 mg kg-1 mg/kg of B.W Gr; G6) BD + 1gm/kg feed Nutritox® during study (1-14) days respectively. Results: Results showed that, addition of Ginger and Nutritox® ameliorated in different degrees the adverse effects of aflatoxin and improved growth performance and some serum biochemical parameters [Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)]. They hasten the recovery of antioxidant enzymes (MDA and GSH) in tissue to their normal levels during certain periods of our experiments. Histopathological liver changes run in the same track with biochemical results. Results revealed that administration of Ginger or Nutritox® in diet prevents and/or reduce some adverse effects of aflatoxin in ducks. Conclusion and clinical relevance: Our study indicates that ginger, an alternative natural product can provide protection against aflatoxin as Nutritox®.

This study was conducted to determine the performance of broilers fed diets supplemented with dry wild mint (Mentha longifolia) and sage (Salvia officinalis) leaves and which are among the alternative growth promoters. A total number of 315 unsexed broilers seven-day old (Ross 308) were randomly allocated to seven treatments with three replicates. The dietary treatments consisted of the basal diet as control (T1), 10 (T2), 20 (T3) and 30 (T4) g/kg wild mint, 10 (T5), 20 (T6) and 30 (T7) g/kg sage added to the basal diet. The results showed birds fed on diet with 20 g/kg wild mint leaf powder significantly had (P≤0.05) the best body weight and FCR as compared to the group fed on 20 and 30 g/kg of sage without any significant effects compared with the other groups. Birds fed on control groups consumed higher (P≤0.05) feed intake compared with the other treatments. Supplemented broiler diets with 20 g/kg wild mint significantly increased slaughter, carcass, gizzard, liver, leg, giblet and total giblet weight compared with chicks fed on diet supplemented with either 20 or 30 g/kg sage without any significant with the rest group. Not significant affected were observed on heart, head, gut and lung weight due to the treatments. Birds fed in diet supplemented with 20 g/kg wild mint had the highest values of net revenue and economic efficiency compared with the control group . Blood biochemical parameters including serum protein, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, and glucose concentrations were not statistically (P>0.05) influenced among all treatments.

ObjectivesTo examine changes in planning, selecting, and preparing healthy foods in relation to personal factors (time, money, stress) and social distancing policies during the COVID-19 crisis.MethodsUsing cross-sectional online surveys collected in 38 countries worldwide in April-June 2020 (N = 37,207, Mage 36.7 SD 14.43, 73.6% women), we compared changes in food literacy behaviors to changes in personal factors and social distancing policies, using hierarchical multiple regression analyses controlling for sociodemographic variables.ResultsIncreases in planning (4.7 SD 1.2, 4.9 SD 1.3), selecting (3.8 SD 1.7, 3.8 SD 1.7), and preparing (4.6 SD 1.3, 4.7 SD 1.3) healthy foods were found for women and men, and positively related to perceived time availability among women and stay-at-home policies for planning and preparing in women. Psychological distress was a barrier for women, and an enabler for men. COVID-19 induced financial stress was a barrier depending on various sociodemographic variables (all p < 0.01).ConclusionStay-at-home policies and feelings of having more time during COVID-19 seem to have improved food literacy among women. Stress and other social distancing policies relate to food literacy in more complex ways, highlighting the necessity of a health equity lens.

A case-control study was performed to assess prescence of inclusion body hepatitis (IBH) caused by fowl adenoviruses (FAdVs) at Kafr EL-Shiekh Governorate, Egypt, during spring, 2017. The case group consisted of 100 liver and spleen samples collected from 10 broiler chickens flocks (10 samples from each flock) suspected to be infected with IBH depending on clinical manefestations and necropsy examination. Controls were randamly selected from chickens without clinical sings or evidence of the disease on postmortem examination. Molecular screening of the disease disease in collected samples based on the DNA polymerase gene of FAdVs was carried out. Furthermore, the DNA polymerase gene sequence was determined and analyzed with published reference sequences on GeneBank. Respectively, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to confirm existence of co-infection with chicken infectious anemia virus (CIAV) and/or infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV in flocks involved in the study. Using PCR, FAdV genome was detected in seven flocks in the case group and one in the control group. FAdV identified in this study revealed close genetic relationship with FAdVs-D previously identified in UK and Canada, suggesting potential virus transmission from these countries. All tested serum samples from diseased chickens were positive for CIAV infection via ELISA while none of the collected bursa of Fabricius samples tested IBDV positive by RT-PCR. Therefore, results obtained from the current study highlighted the importance of implementation of control measures against FAdV and CIAV in Egyptian poultry flocks. This study opens the door for future work toward specific identification of FAdV serotypes circulating in Egyptian poultry farms and molecular characterization of the virus based on hexon gene or full genome sequencing for better understanding of genetic diversity among FAdVs in Egypt at higher reolution.

Background and aimThe International Cancer of the Pancreas Screening Consortium met in 2018 to update its consensus recommendations for the management of individuals with increased risk of pancreatic cancer based on family history or germline mutation status (high-risk individuals).MethodsA modified Delphi approach was employed to reach consensus among a multidisciplinary group of experts who voted on consensus statements. Consensus was considered reached if ≥75% agreed or disagreed.ResultsConsensus was reached on 55 statements. The main goals of surveillance (to identify high-grade dysplastic precursor lesions and T1N0M0 pancreatic cancer) remained unchanged. Experts agreed that for those with familial risk, surveillance should start no earlier than age 50 or 10 years earlier than the youngest relative with pancreatic cancer, but were split on whether to start at age 50 or 55. Germline ATM mutation carriers with one affected first-degree relative are now considered eligible for surveillance. Experts agreed that preferred surveillance tests are endoscopic ultrasound and MRI/magnetic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, but no consensus was reached on how to alternate these modalities. Annual surveillance is recommended in the absence of concerning lesions. Main areas of disagreement included if and how surveillance should be performed for hereditary pancreatitis, and the management of indeterminate lesions.ConclusionsPancreatic surveillance is recommended for selected high-risk individuals to detect early pancreatic cancer and its high-grade precursors, but should be performed in a research setting by multidisciplinary teams in centres with appropriate expertise. Until more evidence supporting these recommendations is available, the benefits, risks and costs of surveillance of pancreatic surveillance need additional evaluation.

In winter 2016, a fatal disease outbreak suspected to be duck virus enteritis (DVE) stroke over a million ducklings in 10 white Pekin and Muscovy ducks flocks in Dakahlia and Gharbia Governorates, Egypt, causing heavy economic losses. The disease quickly killed 20%-60% of affected farms. The clinical signs were inappetence, ataxia, crowding in corners, partially closed eye lids and blue beaks. Post mortem examination revealed white necrotic foci in liver, mottled spleen and sometimes cecal core. A total of 10 intestines, livers and spleens samples were collected from diseased flocks. Each sample was pooled randomly from eight to ten ducklings. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and histopathological examination were utilized for DEV identification in collected samples. Nucleotides sequences of the amplified DNA polymerase gene were compared with the other DEVs available on GeneBank. Also, existence of co-infection with Salmonella spp. was verified via PCR. DEV nucleic acid was detected by PCR in 8 of 10 collected samples (80%) with positive amplification of polymerase gene. Histopathological examination revealed eosinophilic and basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in enterocytes. In some infected enterocytes, intranuclear and intracytoplasmic inclusions were observed in the same cell. Respectively, eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies found in hepatocytes and reticular cells of liver and spleen of diseased ducklings. Four of the 10 collected samples showed positive results for Salmonella spp. infection that may be involved in enhancing infection with DEV. The identified DEVs revealed close genetic relationship with DEVs detected previously in India and China indicating potential transmission of the virus from there that crucially needs further work for better understanding of virus origin. In conclusion, our study revealed infection of duckling farms with DEV and Salmonella that necessitate the implementation of restricted early preventive and control measures for both diseases to decrease the expected economic losses.

Background Screening individuals at increased risk for pancreatic cancer (PC) detects early, potentially curable, pancreatic neoplasia. Objective To develop consortium statements on screening, surveillance and management of high-risk individuals with an inherited predisposition to PC. Methods A 49-expert multidisciplinary international consortium met to discuss pancreatic screening and vote on statements. Consensus was considered reached if ≥75% agreed or disagreed. Results There was excellent agreement that, to be successful, a screening programme should detect and treat T1N0M0 margin-negative PC and high-grade dysplastic precursor lesions (pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm). It was agreed that the following were candidates for screening: first-degree relatives (FDRs) of patients with PC from a familial PC kindred with at least two affected FDRs; patients with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome; and p16, BRCA2 and hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) mutation carriers with ≥1 affected FDR. Consensus was not reached for the age to initiate screening or stop surveillance. It was agreed that initial screening should include endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and/or MRI/magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography not CT or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. There was no consensus on the need for EUS fine-needle aspiration to evaluate cysts. There was disagreement on optimal screening modalities and intervals for follow-up imaging. When surgery is recommended it should be performed at a high-volume centre. There was great disagreement as to which screening abnormalities were of sufficient concern to for surgery to be recommended. Conclusions Screening is recommended for high-risk individuals, but more evidence is needed, particularly for how to manage patients with detected lesions. Screening and subsequent management should take place at high-volume centres with multidisciplinary teams, preferably within research protocols.

PurposeTo evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of quantitative chemical shift-encoded (CSE) MRI to quantify proton-density fat-fraction (PDFF) in a fat-water phantom across sites, vendors, field strengths, and protocols.MethodsSix sites (Philips, Siemens, and GE Healthcare) participated in this study. A phantom containing multiple vials with various oil/water suspensions (PDFF:0%-100%) was built, shipped to each site, and scanned at 1.5T and 3T using two CSE protocols per field strength. Confounder-corrected PDFF maps were reconstructed using a common algorithm. To assess accuracy, PDFF bias and linear regression with the known PDFF were calculated. To assess reproducibility, measurements were compared across sites, vendors, field strengths, and protocols using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), Bland-Altman analysis, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).ResultsPDFF measurements revealed an overall absolute bias (across sites, field strengths, and protocols) of 0.22% (95% confidence interval, 0.07%-0.38%) and R2 > 0.995 relative to the known PDFF at each site, field strength, and protocol, with a slope between 0.96 and 1.02 and an intercept between -0.56% and 1.13%. ANCOVA did not reveal effects of field strength (P = 0.36) or protocol (P = 0.19). There was a significant effect of vendor (F = 25.13, P = 1.07 × 10-10 ) with a bias of -0.37% (Philips) and -1.22% (Siemens) relative to GE Healthcare. The overall ICC was 0.999.ConclusionCSE-based fat quantification is accurate and reproducible across sites, vendors, field strengths, and protocols. Magn Reson Med 77:1516-1524, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Bu tez çalışması farklılaşan tüketici davranışları üzerinde islam değer ve etksini inceler.Nitekim iktisat sistemi ile islam iktisadı arasında bazı farklar vardır.İktisad sisteminde temeller akıl , deney ve değişen kaynaklardır.Bu davranışların arkasındaki en büyük etken kişisel refahın peşinde koşmaktır.Fakat İslam iktisadı sistemi gücünü Kur'an-ı Kerim'den ve Sünneti seniyeden alır.Amacına ulaştıran motivasyonu ise Rabbinin rızası ve Cennete kavuşma emelidir. Aynı zamanda bu tez çalışması karşılıklı faydaya dayalı ekonomi sisteminin düzenini insanların tekil davranışlarına dayanmasını başta serd etmiştir.Batı toplumunun insanı isteklerini önceleyen ve tükenme bilmeyen istekleri öncelemiştir.Fakat müslamanın tüketim davranışları ulu İslam değerlerinden etkilenmesi gerekir.Müslümanın tüketim davranışları İslamın değerleriyle bağdaşmalıdır.Bu bağdaşlaşmayla islam iktisadı tüketici üzerinde denetleme yetkisi ile yapılabilecek son bir tedavi üslubu gibi gözükmesiyle beraber tüketim davranışları farklılılklar arz edebilir.Rüşd seviyesine erişemeyen bir davranıştan rüşdünü ispatlamış bir davranışa, İslam değerleriyle tedavi edilebilir ve önleyici bir kalkan görevi görür. İslam dini sadece tüketici davranışlarına odaklanarak kalmamış aynı zamanda toplumun tüketimde servet ve gelir dağılımını etkileyen şartları ve tüketici dsiplinini önemsemiştir. Böylece yeryüzünü imar etmek ve Allah'a kulluk bilincinde gelecek nesillere önderlik etme görevini tamamlamış olur. Bu tez çalışmamız da ayrıca makasıdü'ş şeriada tüketicinin önceliklerini ve sonuçlarının tüketici üzerindeki etkilerini konu edinir.Araştırmacı bulgularında bu düzenleme ile başta tüketimde rüşdüne ermiş (aklı baliğ) Müslüman bireyin ihtiyaçlarını karşılanmasını ve doyum noktasına erdirmesini ele almıştır.Ayrıca araştırmacı tüketicinin islam iktisadı açısından dengede durması için islam iktisadı temellerine temerküz etmiş önerileri tutarlılığını tüketici dengesini yarar ve zararını (dengede olamayışını) tartıştıktan sonra sunmuştur. The thesis discusses the values and standards that control the consumer behavior. Those values and standards of the conventional economic systems differ from those of the Islamic economic system. The sources of the conventional economic values are the human intellects and experience, which by nature, are changing. These values are motivated by maximizing self-welfare and self-satisfaction. The Islamic economic system, on the other hand, derives its values from the holy Quran and Sunnah. The motivation behind its values God satisfaction and the interest in winning his Heaven. The thesis outlines the conventional economic theories, which mainly depend on the maximization of self-benefit, which in turn is derived from the instinctual values controlling human behaviors. In western society, there is no limits for a person's desire and free will except his/her limited resources. However, Muslim consumer's behaviors are disciplined and controlled by the Islamic values. As the consumer behavior may vary from harmful to beneficial, the Islamic values are used as a protection from going to the extreme or even the non-rational behaviors.Islam not only rationalizes consuming behavior and relation between people, but also founded relationship between the consumption and wealth (or wages). When these Islamic values are applied to the economy and more specifically consumer behavior, the principal of developing the world for God sake is achieved.The thesis also outlines the importance of `maqasid al-shari'ah` and their effect on the spending priorities of the consumer. The researcher concluded that defining spending priority can lead to consumption maturity, which at the same time, fully satisfies consumer needs.Finally the researcher discussed the theory of benefit and indifference curves analysis for consumer's equilibrium then proposed a vision, based on scientific basis, for consumer's equilibrium in the light of Islamic economy. 148

Bu tez çalışması farklılaşan tüketici davranışları üzerinde islam değer ve etksini inceler.Nitekim iktisat sistemi ile islam iktisadı arasında bazı farklar vardır.İktisad sisteminde temeller akıl , deney ve değişen kaynaklardır.Bu davranışların arkasındaki en büyük etken kişisel refahın peşinde koşmaktır.Fakat İslam iktisadı sistemi gücünü Kur'an-ı Kerim'den ve Sünneti seniyeden alır.Amacına ulaştıran motivasyonu ise Rabbinin rızası ve Cennete kavuşma emelidir. Aynı zamanda bu tez çalışması karşılıklı faydaya dayalı ekonomi sisteminin düzenini insanların tekil davranışlarına dayanmasını başta serd etmiştir.Batı toplumunun insanı isteklerini önceleyen ve tükenme bilmeyen istekleri öncelemiştir.Fakat müslamanın tüketim davranışları ulu İslam değerlerinden etkilenmesi gerekir.Müslümanın tüketim davranışları İslamın değerleriyle bağdaşmalıdır.Bu bağdaşlaşmayla islam iktisadı tüketici üzerinde denetleme yetkisi ile yapılabilecek son bir tedavi üslubu gibi gözükmesiyle beraber tüketim davranışları farklılılklar arz edebilir.Rüşd seviyesine erişemeyen bir davranıştan rüşdünü ispatlamış bir davranışa, İslam değerleriyle tedavi edilebilir ve önleyici bir kalkan görevi görür. İslam dini sadece tüketici davranışlarına odaklanarak kalmamış aynı zamanda toplumun tüketimde servet ve gelir dağılımını etkileyen şartları ve tüketici dsiplinini önemsemiştir. Böylece yeryüzünü imar etmek ve Allah'a kulluk bilincinde gelecek nesillere önderlik etme görevini tamamlamış olur. Bu tez çalışmamız da ayrıca makasıdü'ş şeriada tüketicinin önceliklerini ve sonuçlarının tüketici üzerindeki etkilerini konu edinir.Araştırmacı bulgularında bu düzenleme ile başta tüketimde rüşdüne ermiş (aklı baliğ) Müslüman bireyin ihtiyaçlarını karşılanmasını ve doyum noktasına erdirmesini ele almıştır.Ayrıca araştırmacı tüketicinin islam iktisadı açısından dengede durması için islam iktisadı temellerine temerküz etmiş önerileri tutarlılığını tüketici dengesini yarar ve zararını (dengede olamayışını) tartıştıktan sonra sunmuştur. The thesis discusses the values and standards that control the consumer behavior. Those values and standards of the conventional economic systems differ from those of the Islamic economic system. The sources of the conventional economic values are the human intellects and experience, which by nature, are changing. These values are motivated by maximizing self-welfare and self-satisfaction. The Islamic economic system, on the other hand, derives its values from the holy Quran and Sunnah. The motivation behind its values God satisfaction and the interest in winning his Heaven. The thesis outlines the conventional economic theories, which mainly depend on the maximization of self-benefit, which in turn is derived from the instinctual values controlling human behaviors. In western society, there is no limits for a person's desire and free will except his/her limited resources. However, Muslim consumer's behaviors are disciplined and controlled by the Islamic values. As the consumer behavior may vary from harmful to beneficial, the Islamic values are used as a protection from going to the extreme or even the non-rational behaviors. Islam not only rationalizes consuming behavior and relation between people, but also founded relationship between the consumption and wealth (or wages). When these Islamic values are applied to the economy and more specifically consumer behavior, the principal of developing the world for God sake is achieved. The thesis also outlines the importance of "maqasid al-shari'ah" and their effect on the spending priorities of the consumer. The researcher concluded that defining spending priority can lead to consumption maturity, which at the same time, fully satisfies consumer needs. Finally the researcher discussed the theory of benefit and indifference curves analysis for consumer's equilibrium then proposed a vision, based on scientific basis, for consumer's equilibrium in the light of Islamic economy.

This study investigated the effect of different detergents used to clean cows' udders on the microbial content of the produced milk using twenty cows in Ajloun, a northern city in Jordan. The milking process was repeated from same cows on three successive days. On day 1, we milked the cows after cleaning their udders using water only. This was repeated on the two successive days. Thereafter, the cows were milked after cleaning their udders by a different detergent each day. The process was also repeated for three successive days for each detergent. Microbial Analysis was carried out on the collected milk samples. The results indicated that cleaning cows' udders before milking has improved the hygiene conditions and reduced the total bacterial count, total coliform, staphylococci and enterococci spp counts and the values of yeast and molds. Different detergents had different effects on the microbial counts. Finally, the effectiveness of the detergent differed according to its brand. Our findings are important to public health because milk has been a traditional food and ironically a very potent carrier of gastrointestinal infections, if contaminated.

An in vitro study using rabbit sperm was designed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of different concentrations of aluminium chloride (AlCl(3)) at 0, 2 and 4h of incubation on sperm motility and viability, oxidative status and the activities of some antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)), transaminases and acid phosphatase. The role of vitamin C (1 mM) or vitamin E (2 mM) was also investigated in counteracting deterioration caused by AlCl(3) on the tested parameters. Rabbit sperm was incubated with different concentrations of AlCl(3) (0, 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 mM) with or without vitamin C or vitamin E for 2 and 4 h. Results revealed that the percentage of motile and viable sperm decreased significantly after AlCl(3) treatment at 10, 15 and 20 mM and the response was both concentration and time dependent. Aluminium chloride at concentrations of 10, 15 and 20 mM caused significant induction of oxidative stress as evidenced by increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels and inhibition in the activities of SOD and CAT. Increase in the activities of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) and decline in the activity of acid phosphatase (ACP) were also observed at AlCl(3) concentrations of 15 and 20 mM. Co-incubation with either vitamin C or vitamin E resulted in marked degrees of protection against AlCl(3)-induced cytotoxic effects, represented in decreased TBARS levels and restoration of enzymes activities near control. On the other hand, no significant effect was exerted from vitamin C or vitamin E on motility and viability. The present study demonstrated that AlCl(3) caused deterioration in sperm motility and viability, enhancement of free radicals and alterations in enzymes activities. The antioxidants revealed protective effects against the cytotoxicity of AlCl(3).

Endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) represents only 0.2% of all uterine malignancies. Even fewer cases have been reported on patients presenting with symptomatic disease. We report the case of young lady presenting with a large bleeding abdominal mass. At the time of surgery, an en bloc excision of the mass with a partial pancreatectomy, splenectomy, transverse colectomy, left nephrectomy, left adrenalectomy and resection of the diaphragm was performed. The final pathology revealed a malignant spindle and epithelial cell neoplasm with features favoring a variant of ESS. ESS can present in an atypical fashion as an intra-abdominal mass; a multi-disciplinary treatment approach for patients with this disease is crucial.

Dietary flavonoids appear to play a role in the prevention of a number of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease and the soy isoflavones have been the focus of particular. Consumption of soy isoflavones may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease both through reduction in serum lipids and by the antioxidant properties. We have therefore investigate the effects of either 2.5 or 5 mg/kg B.W. doses of isoflavones on the levels of free radicals, lipids and lipoproteins in male New Zealand White rabbits. Animals were orally given 2.5 or 5 mg/kg B.W. doses of isoflavones. The tested doses were given to rabbits every other day for 13 weeks. Treatment with isoflavones caused significant (P

Protective effect of isoflavones on cypermethrin-induced changes in blood hematology, and plasma lipids, lipoproteins, glucose, urea, creatinine, total bilirubin and protein concentrations of male New Zealand White rabbits was studied. Rabbits were orally given sublethal dose of cypermethrin (24 mg/kg BW; 1/100 LD50), while isoflavones (2 mg/kg BW) was given alone or in combination with cypermethrin. The tested doses were given to rabbits every other day for 12 weeks. Results showed that cypermethrin caused a significant (P

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of supplementation of ascorbic acid, Vitamin E (Vit. E) and their combination in drinking water on sperm characteristics, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and seminal plasma enzymes of mature male rabbits. Twenty-four male New Zealand White rabbits (5 months old) were given drinking water supplemented with ascorbic acid (1.5 g/l), Vit. E (1.0 g/l) and ascorbic acid+Vit. E (1.5+1.0 g/l) for 12 weeks. Vitamin supplementation in drinking water increased feed intake, but body weight gain was not significantly affected. Concentrations of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were significantly (P

Lakes are ideal in defining the processes that govern the behavior of heavy metals in sediments: they are closed systems with well-known characteristics (input, outputs) and contain a memory for dynamic bottom processes (erosion, accumulation, and transportation). Lakes integrate and represent environmental conditions, in contrast with the wide variability in the water column and in open marine systems.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in Egypt circulated continuously after its introduction in February 2006 with substantial economic losses and frequent human infections. Phylogenetic analysis of the available HA sequences revealed the presence of two main sublineages; the classic 2.2.1 and the variant 2.2.1.1. The classic 2.2.1 had subdivided into two clusters of viruses; cluster C1 contained the originally introduced virus and isolates from 2006 to 2009 and cluster C2 emerged in 2007 and continues to circulate. The variant 2.2.1.1 represents the isolates mainly from chickens and subdivided into two clusters; cluster V1 contains isolates from 2007 to 2009 and cluster V2 contains isolates from 2008 to 2011. Sequence analysis revealed 28 amino acid mutations in the previously reported antigenic sites and high evolution rate which may be due to selective pressure from vaccination and/or natural infection. Antigenic analysis of 18 H5N1 isolates from 2006 to 2012 that represent different clusters was conducted using hemagglutination inhibition (HI) and virus neutralization (VN) assays using hyperimmune sera produced by immunizing SPF chickens with inactivated whole-virus. Antigenic relatedness of ancestral Egyptian H5N1 isolate (459-3/06) with other isolates ranged from 30.7% to 79.1% indicating significant antigenic drift of the H5N1 viruses from the ancestral strains. The antigenic relatedness between C2 and V2 clusters ranged from 28.9% to 68% supporting the need for vaccine seed strains from both clusters. Interestingly, A/CK/EG/1709-6/2008 H5N1 strain showed a broad cross reactivity against viruses in different H5N1 clusters (antigenic relatedness ranged from 63.9% to 85.8%) demonstrating a potential candidate as a vaccine strain. Antigenic cartography which facilitates a quantitative interpretation and easy visualization of serological data was constructed based on HI results and further demonstrated the several antigenic groups among Egyptian H5N1 viruses. In conclusion, the cross reactivity between the co-circulating H5N1 strains may not be adequate for protection against each other and it is recommended to test vaccines that contain isolates from different antigenic groups in experimental infection trials for the selection of vaccine seed strain. Furthermore, the continuous monitoring for detecting the emerging variants followed by detailed antigenic analysis for updating vaccines is warranted.

Twenty-four avian influenza viruses were collected from poultry farms in three different governorates in Egypt during the years 2006-2009 and genetically characterized. All the isolates were confirmed to be type A and subtype H5 influenza virus by chromatographic strip test and hemagglutination inhibition assay. The sequence and phylogenetic data revealed that all Egyptian isolates cluster together and belong to subclade 2.2.1 of the H5N1 virus of Eurasian origin. Within the clade, Egyptian isolates were classified into three major groups (A, B, and C) based on genetic similarity and chronology of the isolation. The majority of the recent isolates belonged to subgroup A. Interestingly, four strains, which were isolated from the same farm with two of the samples collected on the same day, were located in separate subgroups. In addition, the difference in topology between HA and NS phylogenetic trees, which indicates possible difference in dynamics of genetic evolution in two genes, was observed. Genetic characterization data of H5N1 isolates obtained from farms with different vaccination histories indicate the vaccines currently being used in Egypt do not provide adequate level of protection. Our study provides additional evidence for the need for updated vaccine and warrants continuous monitoring of H5N1 influenza virus in Egypt.

The incidence of acute rheumatic fever in children aged 5-14 years in Kuwait was studied prospectively over a period of five years (1984 through 1988). The mean annual incidence in the study period was 2.9/100,000 children. There was a decline in the incidence from 3.7/100,000 in 1984 to 2.5/100,000 in 1988. Twenty-seven percent of children with acute rheumatic fever presented as recurrences in 1985; this also declined to 11% in 1988.

Triphenyltin (TPT) is known to cause endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity and a decrease in testosterone production. It is involved in the production of reactive oxygen species. Propolis has been reported to be an important antioxidant. Therefore, the present study aimed to elucidate the possible protective effects of propolis in alleviating the toxicity of triphenyltin chloride (TPTCl) on reproductive performance, testosterone levels, lipid peroxidation and enzyme activities in seminal plasma of male New Zealand white rabbits. Animals were orally administered the doses of propolis, TPTCl and propolis plus TPTCl every day for 12 weeks. Results showed that semen quality was deteriorated following treatment with TPTCl. Also, testosterone levels, body weight (BW), relative weights of testes (RWT) and epididymis (RWE) were decreased. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and lactate dehydrogenase were increased, while glutathione S-transferase, transaminases and phosphatases were decreased in seminal plasma of rabbits treated with TPTCl compared to control. Propolis alone significantly increased testosterone levels, BW, RTW, REW, semen characteristics and seminal plasma enzymes, and decreased the levels of free radicals and lactate dehydrogenase. Furthermore, the presence of propolis with TPTCl alleviates its toxic effects. From the present study, it can be concluded propolis can be effective in the protection of TPTCl-induced reproductive toxicity.

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the perception of the trainees regarding the participatory learning and action training workshop which was held at Edamer Local Implementation Unit during the period of July 17-25/2011. The participants of the training workshop were selected individuals and groups. Twenty four trainees attended the training workshop. The questionnaire was developed by the researchers and covered selected statements related to perceptions of the trainees regarding overall activities of the training program. The data was collected from the trainees at the end of the training program. Information obtained from the questionnaires analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), means and standard deviation were used as statistical methods to determine the perceptions level of the trainees.The results of the study indicated that the trainees as a group agreed that the training program was very useful and interesting. They also indicated that the trainer was very friendly, helpful and used a variety of teaching methods and field work techniques. The results also indicated that the training program covered required technical and professional competencies in participatory learning and action approach. The study produced some recommendations and strategies for improving the present and future program.

The dairy farmers of Sudan are facing the lack of some competencies needed for improving the dairy productivity of their cattle. Therefore it is very important to study the farmers competencies in order to put plans for improving the farmers conditions and go for better productivity. The main objective of this study was to identify the competencies in dairy production of Kuku Cooperative Dairy Society (KCDS) in Khartoum State. A random sample of 81 dairy farmers was drawn from the total 162 members of KCDS. A questionnaire was carefully prepared that included a list of 8 understandings and 27 important abilities in the field of dairy production. A rating scale was provided with a 0 to 4 range of the abilities and understandings. The personal interviews with the farmers in the sample were conducted during January, 2013. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). It was concluded that the dairy farmers need more competencies in dairy production. Some competencies need more emphasis than others. The dairy farmers felt that they possessed fewer competencies in dairy production than their actual need. Farmers indicated that they need more competence in areas related to calculating net farm income, selecting sires with high proofs and high repeatability, identifying mastitis problems and treating mastitic cows, recognizing symptoms of sick animals, following the vaccination program, the proper management and the adequacy of feeding calves and herd replacements, and the identification of common parasites.

A 6-year prospective study was carried out on 339 infants and children with clinical suspicion of meningitis or febrile convulsion where C-reactive protein (CRP) determination was done for all pati...

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), principally ischemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke, are the leading cause of global mortality and a major contributor to disability. This paper reviews the magnitude of total CVD burden, including 13 underlying causes of cardiovascular death and 9 related risk factors, using estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2019. GBD, an ongoing multinational collaboration to provide comparable and consistent estimates of population health over time, used all available population-level data sources on incidence, prevalence, case fatality, mortality, and health risks to produce estimates for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019. Prevalent cases of total CVD nearly doubled from 271 million (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 257 to 285 million) in 1990 to 523 million (95% UI: 497 to 550 million) in 2019, and the number of CVD deaths steadily increased from 12.1 million (95% UI:11.4 to 12.6 million) in 1990, reaching 18.6 million (95% UI: 17.1 to 19.7 million) in 2019. The global trends for disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and years of life lost also increased significantly, and years lived with disability doubled from 17.7 million (95% UI: 12.9 to 22.5 million) to 34.4 million (95% UI:24.9 to 43.6 million) over that period. The total number of DALYs due to IHD has risen steadily since 1990, reaching 182 million (95% UI: 170 to 194 million) DALYs, 9.14 million (95% UI: 8.40 to 9.74 million) deaths in the year 2019, and 197 million (95% UI: 178 to 220 million) prevalent cases of IHD in 2019. The total number of DALYs due to stroke has risen steadily since 1990, reaching 143 million (95% UI: 133 to 153 million) DALYs, 6.55 million (95% UI: 6.00 to 7.02 million) deaths in the year 2019, and 101 million (95% UI: 93.2 to 111 million) prevalent cases of stroke in 2019. Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of disease burden in the world. CVD burden continues its decades-long rise for almost all countries outside high-income countries, and alarmingly, the age-standardized rate of CVD has begun to rise in some locations where it was previously declining in high-income countries. There is an urgent need to focus on implementing existing cost-effective policies and interventions if the world is to meet the targets for Sustainable Development Goal 3 and achieve a 30% reduction in premature mortality due to noncommunicable diseases.

Background: A major hepatic resection for malignancies requires an adequate post-operative liver reserve. Portal vein embolization (PVE) with intra-arterial therapy (IAT) may increase future liver remnant (FLR) hypertrophy. As such, the feasibility, safety and efficacy of IAT+PVE were investigated. Methods: Between 2000 to 2011, 86 patients with malignancy of the liver were identified from a multi-institutional database. Twenty-nine patients underwent sequential IAT+PVE, 25 had PVE alone and 32 had IAT alone. Clinicopathological data were evaluated. Results: Most patients had hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (65.1%) and 31.4% had secondary metastatic disease. A complete or partial response using European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASLD) criteria was seen in 48.3% of patients undergoing IAT+PVE vs. 56.6% among patients undergoing IAT (P = 0.601). The median increase in percentage FLR volume was comparable in IAT+PVE (7.4%) vs. PVE only (7.9%) (P = 0.203). There were no IAT+PVE-associated deaths and only one complication. Among patients treated with IAT+PVE (n = 29), 27 underwent a subsequent hepatic resection. Peri-operative morbidity and mortality was 29.6% and 7.4%, respectively. Among the patients with HCC who underwent curative intent surgery after IAT+PVE, the median survival was 59.0 months. Conclusions: Sequential IAT and PVE are feasible and safe. Utilization of IAT+PVE before a resection can lead to long-term survival and should be considered in the treatment of patients with advanced hepatic malignancies.