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The present study was designed to investigate the efficacy of overdose of vitamin C supplementation on growth performance, Europe production efficiency factor (EPEF),carcass traits and some blood constituents of Japanese quail in one way analysis of variance experiment lasted 49 days of age. Two hundred and twenty five of one day old Japanese quail chicks were used. The chicks were distributed into 5 treatments of 3 replicates of 15 birds each. Five levels of vitamin C (0, 65, 130, 260 and 520mg/kg diet) were used. The body weight and feed intake were recorded weekly and consequently, body weight gain and feed conversion ratio were calculated. At the end of the experiment, three birds from each group were slaughtered to evaluate carcass parts. Blood serum samples were obtained from chicks at 49 day of age after being centrifuged to measure total protein, cholesterol, glucose, calcium, phosphorus and GPT. The results at 49 days of age, showed that the Japanese quail chicks fed 130 mg of vitamin C/kg were significantly (P 0.05) effects due to vitamin C supplementation were noticed on dressed%, EPEF, and some blood serum parameters measured, although, there where slight improvements in chicks fed 130 mg/kg feed. It was recommended that feed formulation during starter and grower periods, it should be supplemented at least by 130 mg/kg of vitamin C to achieve good performance and health of Japanese quail.

With the significant drawbacks of conventional cancer chemotherapeutics, cancer immunotherapy has demonstrated the ability to eradicate cancer cells and circumvent multidrug resistance (MDR) with fewer side effects than traditional cytotoxic therapies. Various immunotherapeutic agents have been investigated for that purpose including checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, monoclonal antibodies and cancer vaccines. All these agents aid immune cells to recognize and engage tumor cells by acting on tumor-specific pathways, antigens or cellular targets. However, immunotherapeutics are still associated with some concerns such as off-target side effects and poor pharmacokinetics. Nanomedicine may resolve some limitations of current immunotherapeutics such as localizing delivery, controlling release and enhancing the pharmacokinetic profile. Herein, we discuss recent advances of immunotherapeutic agents with respect to their development and biological mechanisms of action, along with the advantages that nanomedicine strategies lend to immunotherapeutics by possibly improving therapeutic outcomes and minimizing side effects.

Cell lines have been established to preserve the genetic material of endangered animals. This study aims to establish, characterize and authenticate fibroblast cells derived from the kidney tissue of a Sumatran rhinoceros’ carcass. The primary cultures were obtained using the mixed enzymatic-explant method, supplemented with complete media and maintained at 37oC with 5% CO2 in an incubator. Following routine trypsinization, viability and growth curves were generated through the Trypan Blue counting method. Cellular senescence was quantified by Sa-β-gal staining assay and G-banding for karyotyping. As a result, the cell derivation had generated 81 frozen stocks. The viability of cells at P5 and P10 showed reasonable recovery after six months. Cell population doubling time at P5 was 20.45 hours, while it was 22.35 hours at P10 and P15. The senescence level significantly increased from P5 to P10, and was especially significant at P15. Genetic stabilities were considered stable at P5 and P10, with frequency of over 70 %. In conclusion, this study was able to derive a primary fibroblast culture from the preserved tissue of a Sumatran rhinoceros, with certain changes in morphology, senescence level, growth curves and cell viability as the number of passages increased.

Radiotherapy-induced dermatitis (RID) is an inflammatory cutaneous disorder that is acquired as an adverse effect of undergoing radiotherapy. Skin microbiome dysbiosis has been linked to the outcomes of several dermatological diseases. To explore the skin microbiota of RID and deduce their underlying impact on the outcome of RID, cutaneous microbiomes of 78 RID patients and 20 healthy subjects were characterized by sequencing V1-V3 regions of 16S rRNA gene. In total, a significantly apparent reduction in bacterial diversity was detected in microbiomes of RID in comparison to controls. Overall, the raised Proteobacteria/ Firmicutes ratio was significantly linked to delayed recovery or tendency toward the permanence of RID (Kruskal Wallis: P = 2.66 × 10–4). Moreover, applying enterotyping on our samples stratified microbiomes into A, B, and C dermotypes. Dermotype C included overrepresentation of Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus and Stenotrophomonas and was markedly associated with delayed healing of RID. Strikingly, coexistence of diabetes mellitus and RID was remarkably correlated with a significant overrepresentation of Klebsiella or Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus. Metabolic abilities of skin microbiome could support their potential roles in the pathogenesis of RID. Cutaneous microbiome profiling at the early stages of RID could be indicative of prospective clinical outcomes and maybe a helpful guide for personalized therapy.

Twinning induction of single-bearing Noemi ewes is an important avenue to maximize the economic feasibility of sheep production. Sixty Noemi ewes were used and randomly assigned to six treatment groups (n=10/group).Two sources of FSH [i.e., porcine (P) vs. human (H)] were given as a single dose or in six doses. The control 1 group was given a single dose of saline (C1), while the control 2 group was given six doses of saline (C6). Ewes in group 3 (P1) were given a single dose of p-FSH, in group 4 six doses of p-FSH (P6), in group 5 a single dose of h-FSH (H1), and in group 6 six doses of h-FSH (H6). The ewes were inserted with CIDR for 10 days with FSH given on day 8. A fertile ram was used at the onset of estrus. Blood samples were collected for hormone analyses. The time between CIDR removal and onset of estrus (63, 38 and 26 hrs. in C, P, and H, respectively) was shortened by FSH administration. FSH increased the incidence of twinning, however single dose resulted in more stillbirths and mortalities. The neonatal survival rate decreased in the P1 (40%) compared to the P6 (65%) treatments. Both sources of FSH raised progesterone and estradiol 17-β compared to the controls. Contrariwise, both h- and p-FSH reduced T4; however, h-but not p-FSH raised T3. In conclusion, using rh-FSH at six descending doses of a total 180 IU in Noemi ewes produced two viable neonates. Moreover, the exogenous FSH raised the sex hormones and T3 in the ewes.

In this study, experiments were performed to investigate the effect of the low static magnetic field (SMF) on hatchability, development, and survival of Culex pipiens mosquito immature under laboratory conditions. Egg-rafts of Cx. pipiens were exposed to SMF at different intensities of 5 mT, 25 mT, and 50 mT for 20 minutes at a temperature of 28±1 oC. Hatching rate, hatching delay time, and larval development significantly affected by SMF. The numbers of hatched larvae decreased with increasing SMF at 50 mT (133.33 ± 6.0) as compared to the control (302.23 ± 10.9). Also, the hatching rate significantly lengthened (P < 0.05) with high intensity of SMF. A total of 88.3% and 44.33% eggs hatched at 5 mT and 50 mT, respectively. For Cx. pipiens immatures, the duration time shortened and survival (%) reduced after exposure to high dose (50 mT) than to low dose (5 mT). We concluded that SMF affects egg hatchability and immature development which could be applied as a strategy in mosquito control.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of using recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) compared with pituitary-derived porcine FSH given as one dose or multiple doses on the neonatal traits, follicular dynamics, and maternal blood biochemical constituents in Noemi ewes. Materials and Methods: A 3×2 factorial arrangement was designed utilizing 60 adults Noemi ewes to test the effects of using two sources of FSH (human vs. porcine) in addition to control, either given as a single total dose or six descending doses to provoke twinning. Six treatments (T) were tested (n=10 ewes/T). C1 and C6 served as control ewes given saline as one dose and six doses, respectively; H1 and H6 ewes were given human FSH as one and six doses; and P1 and P6 ewes were given porcine FSH similar to the above treatments. Saline and/or FSH administration were administered at days 8, 9, and 10 of the 10-day controlled internal drug release (CIDR) implant. At CIDR removal, fertile rams were used for natural mating. Blood samples for the assessment of serum metabolites were collected. Results: Twinning increased in FSH-treated ewes than control. However, giving FSH of either source as a single dose resulted in a higher incidence of stillbirths. Pregnancy rates were 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80% in C1, C6, P1, P6, H1, and H6, respectively. Respective percent of ewes delivering twins/multiple birth was 0, 0, 80, 66.7, 71.4, and 87.5%. FSH of human source was more efficient for folliculogenesis than porcine FSH. Administration of FSH increased blood cholesterol, decreased high-density lipoprotein; however, low-density lipoprotein levels were not different than control. Moreover, an interaction (p

Petrological and geochemical studies of Neoproterozoic metagabbros were carried out in the Muiswirab area, South Eastern Desert of Egypt. The Muiswirab area comprises of ophiolitic metagabbroic rocks (MOM), which are tectonically thrusted over a thick pile of metavolcanic rocks and intruded by syn- and post-tectonic granitoid rocks. The whole-rock geochemical variations coupled with chemical compositions of mineral constituents are used to attain the genesis and tectonic evolution of the studied metagabbros. The geothermobarometric investigation of the analyzed amphiboles from (MOM) revealed that these metagabbros underwent regional metamorphism under lower to upper greenschist facies (biotite zone) conditions (at a temperature of 450 to 500 °C and pressure of 1–3 kbar). Geochemically, the metagabbros (MOM) show tholeiitic affinity and exhibiting both arc- and MORB- like characters as evidenced by their clinopyroxene compositions and the Ti/V ratios (11.84–31.65), which considered as prominent features of forearc tectonic regime. The geochemical features suggest a probable fractionation of olivine ± clinopyroxene ± plagioclase as well as insignificant crustal contamination. The parental magma of the investigated MOM rocks seems to be developed in a sub-arc mantle wedge setting due to the enrichments of LILE (e.g., Rb, Ba, Sr, Pb) over HFSE (e.g., Ti, Nb, Y, Zr, Hf, Ta). The studied MOM rocks have lower values of Nb/U relative to MORB and OIB indicating that their geochemical variation produced due to the enrichment of a lithosphere mantle by OIB-like components. The ratios of Zn/Fet, La/Sm, Sm/Yb, Th/Yb and Nb/Yb indicate that the MOM rocks represent a fragment of oceanic crust originated at a supra-subduction zone environment and their parental magma developed by 5–30 % partial melting of a spinel lherzolite mantle rather than pyroxenite in an island arc setting and conformable with most of the Egyptian ophiolitic metagabbros.

Introduction: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a serious problem that affects negatively the quality of life, interpersonal relationships and female self- confidence and might be a direct cause of psychopathological disturbances. Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a common cosmetically disturbing condition affecting many women with social and psychological consequences. Aim of the Work: Assessment of the relationship between female sexual dysfunction and Female pattern hair loss in premenopausal females. Methods: A case-control study was carried on 47 female patients with FPHL and 43 age- matched control women without FPHL among premenopausal women attending dermatology and Andrology outpatient’s clinics, Suez Canal University hospital during the period from May 2018 to January 2019. History taking, clinical examination and hormonal investigation (Free Testosterone, Total Testosterone, and SHBG) were performed to all participants in the study. Main Outcome Measures: The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess the key aspects of female sexual function in patients and controls. FPHL was diagnosed and graded by Ludwig’s classification. Results: Mean age of patients group was 30.12 ± 5.49 years, Regarding FPHL grading, 55.3%, 42.6% & 2.1% of patients were grades 1, 2 and 3 Ludwig’s classification respectively. FSD was found in 44.7% of patients while it was 44.2% in control group (P > 0.05). FSFI score in patients group was 26.40 ± 4.61 and in control group was 27.05 ± 3.12 (P > 0.05). Correlation between FSD prevalence and grade of FPHL by Ludwig’s classification was statistically insignificant. FSD was significantly compromised by increasing age and parity in patients and control groups (P Conclusions: The present study suggests that FSD was not significantly related to FPHL. Increased age and parity may have strong impact on sexual function in premenopausal women, while androgen hormones levels were not determinant factor.

Three different concentrations of four (ethanol, acetone, methanol, and diethyl ether) extracts of licorice, doum, and banana peel were evaluated for antifungal and antimycotoxigenic efficiency against a maize aflatoxigenic fungus, Aspergillus flavus. Among them, the licorice diethyl ether 75% extract was intensely active, showing the best wet and dry weight inhibition and exhibiting the highest efficacy ratio (91%). Regarding aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) production, all the plant extracts tested were effective against AFB1 production after one month of maize storage, with average efficacy ratios ranging from 74.1% to 97.5%. At the same time, Thiram fungicide exhibited an efficacy ratio of 20.14%. The relative expression levels of three structural genes (aflD, aflP, and aflQ) and two regulatory genes (aflR and aflS) were significantly downregulated when compared to untreated maize grains or Thiram-treated maize grains. The doum diethyl ether 75% peel extract showed the highest total phenolic content (60.48 mg GAE/g dry extract wt.) and antioxidant activity (84.71 μg/mL). GC–MS analysis revealed that dimethoxycinnamic acid, aspartic acid, valproic acid, and linoleic acid might imbue the extracts with antioxidant capacities in relation to fungal growth and aflatoxin biosynthesis. Finally, the results suggest that the three plant extracts can be considered a promising source for developing potentially effective and environmentally safer alternative ways to control aflatoxin formation, thus creating a potentially protective method for grain storage.

The Mediator coactivator complex is divided into four modules: head, middle, tail, and kinase. Deletion of the architectural subunit Med16 separates core Mediator (cMed), comprising the head, middle, and scaffold (Med14), from the tail. However, the direct global effects of tail/cMed disconnection are unclear. We find that rapid depletion of Med16 downregulates genes that require the SAGA complex for full expression, consistent with their reported tail dependence, but also moderately overactivates TFIID-dependent genes in a manner partly dependent on the separated tail, which remains associated with upstream activating sequences. Suppression of TBP dynamics via removal of the Mot1 ATPase partially restores normal transcriptional activity to Med16-depleted cells, suggesting that cMed/tail separation results in an imbalance in the levels of PIC formation at SAGA-requiring and TFIID-dependent genes. We propose that the preferential regulation of SAGA-requiring genes by tailed Mediator helps maintain a proper balance of transcription between these genes and those more dependent on TFIID., Author summary Composed of over two dozen subunits, the Mediator complex plays several roles in RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription in eukaryotes. In yeast, deletion of Med16, which splits Mediator into two stable subcomplexes, both increases and decreases transcript levels, suggesting that Med16 might play a repressive role. However, the direct effects of Med16 removal on RNAPII transcription have not been assessed, owing to the use of deletion mutants and measurement of steady-state RNA levels in prior studies. Here, using a combination of inducible protein depletion and analysis of nascent RNA, we find that Med16 removal 1) downregulates a small group of genes reported to be highly dependent on the SAGA complex and 2) upregulates a larger set of genes reported to be more dependent on the TFIID complex in a manner dependent on another component of Mediator. We find that artificially altering the balance of transcription pre-initiation complex (PIC) formation toward SAGA-requiring promoters and away from TFIID-dependent promoters partially restores normal transcription, indicating a contribution of altered PIC formation to the transcriptional alterations observed with Med16 loss. Taken together, our results indicate that the structural integrity of Mediator is important for maintaining balanced transcription between different gene classes.

Objectives Medicinal plants continue to gain popularity on a global scale. Besides, there is a need for discovering new antibacterial natural extracts that could be used as antibiotics alternatives against resistant bacteria. In this respect, the aim of this study was to determine the phytochemicals, antioxidant activity, calorific nutritional value and antibacterial potential of four traditionally used wild medicinal plants (Achillea fragrantissima (Delile) Hayne, Teucrium polium L., Peganum harmala L. and Solenostemma argel (Forssk.) Sch. Bip. grow in Saint Catherine Protectorate, South Sinai, Egypt. Methods Standard methods were applied to determine the proximate composition, calorific nutritional value, secondary metabolites (phenolics and flavonoids), antioxidant activity by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH·), ferrous ion chelating (FIC), 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS +) and Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) techniques in addition to the antibacterial potential of the active aqueous extracts by broth dilution technique. Results The results obtained illustrated that T. polium recorded the highest nutritional calorific value (205.63 ± 5.76 calories/100 g dried plant), total phenolics (8.057 ± 0.322 g gallic acid equivalent/100 g dried plant), total flavonoids (2.013 ± 0.034 g catechin equivalent/ 100 g dried plant and antioxidant scavenging activity using DPPH (EC50 = 1.84 mg extract/g DPPH), FIC (IC50 = 0.068 mg extract/ml), ABTS (61.11%) and FRAP (2185.71 mmol Fe (II)/g extract) assays followed descendingly by A. fragrantissima, S. argel and P. harmala, respectively. There was direct relation between the flavonoids/ phenolics ratios and the radical scavenging activity among all extracts. Regarding the antibacterial potential, the extracts expressed broader antibacterial spectrum against Bacillus cereus (ATCC®11778™), Bacillus subtilis (ATCC®19659™), Escherichia coli (ATCC®10536™), klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC®10031™), Listeria innocua (ATCC®33090™), Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC®19115™), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC®9027™), salmonella enterica (ATCC®15479™) and Salmonella typhimurium)ATCC®14028™(strains. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the extracts estimated using broth dilution assay ranged from 0.049 to 1.56 mg/ml. T. polium extract possessed the highest activity among all other extracts. Conclusions In conclusion, the studied medicinal plants could be used as nutritional supplements, antioxidants and antibacterial botanicals for combating some of the pathogenic bacteria.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen exhibiting higher resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Microbial resistance to antibiotics is a major problem that hinders attempts to control microbial infections. Quorum sensing inhibitors could help us solve such problem by repressing quorum sensing that controls the production of virulence factors in many pathogens including P. aeruginosa. In this study, the influence of tenoxicam, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, on quorum sensing in P. aeruginosa was characterized. Treatment of P. aeruginosa with tenoxicam decreased production of many virulence factors such as pyoverdin, rhamnolipids, pyocyanin, elastase, proteases, and hemolysins. Moreover, qRT-PCR revealed a significant reduction in expression of quorum sensing genes in tenoxicam-treated P. aeruginosa in comparison with untreated bacteria. Tenoxicam markedly reduced the capacity of P. aeruginosa to kill mice infection model. Mice injected with tenoxicam-treated P. aeruginosa exhibited higher survival rate as compared with those inoculated with untreated bacteria. Current data clearly demonstrate that tenoxicam has quorum sensing inhibitory effect on P. aeruginosa. Tenoxicam could play a role in reduction of Pseudomonas quorum sensing-dependant virulence factors production, and therefore affect its pathogenesis in the host. In summary, the current study suggests that tenoxicam could be used as adjuvant to antibiotics in the management of diseases caused by P. aeruginosa.

Background: Acne vulgaris is primarily a disease of the pilosebaceous unit. Four main pathogenic factors are known to lead to its development: follicular epidermal hyperproliferation, excess sebum production, inflammation, and the activity of propionibacterium acnes. Isotretinoin (ISO) is a 13-cis-retinoic acid derivative of vitamin A. It is a highly effective therapy for severe nodulocystic acne.Objective: The aim was to measure serum total, free testosterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels, before and after treatment, in male patients suffering from acne vulgaris and taking ISO as a treatment for their acne.Patients and Methods: The authors included 113 male patients with acne vulgaris. The patients received 0.5░mg/kg/day ISO treatment. Blood samples were collected from the patients for analysis of total, free testosterone, and SHBG levels before and after 6 months of treatment.Results: After 6 months of treatment with ISO, the total lesion count was significantly lower after treatment (88.70±35.04 and 27.80±17.94, respectively, P 0.05), and the mean SHBG serum level was insignificantly higher after treatment (104.367±14.689 and105.533±16.362, respectively, P>0.05).Conclusion: This study showed that ISO treatment led to significant reduction in serum total testosterone levels, which may be beneficial for tackling the pathogenesis of acne

This study aimed at elucidating effects of replacing sorghum with blue panic (BP) on total dry matter intake (TDMI), average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), apparent nutrient digestibility, blood biochemical constituents, rumen fermentation patterns and economic feasibility of Barky male lambs. Fifteen lambs (av. BW, 22.5 ± 1.6 kg) were randomly allotted into 3 treatments (n = 5/group). Control lambs were given a diet of concentrate mixture (CM) plus sorghum (S), BP50% lambs were given a diet of CM plus (S: PB 1:1) and BP100% lambs were given CM plus PB. The experiment lasted for 54 days. At the last week of the experiment, the apparent nutrient digestibility coefficients were determined using lignin contents of feeds and faeces as an internal marker. Blood samples were collected at weeks 3, 5 and 7 to determine serum biochemical parameters. Results showed that TDMI significantly (P 0.05) by total replacement of sorghum with BP. Likewise, none of the serum biochemical constituents were different in BP than in control lambs. This study concluded that BP grass would be considered as one of the promising tropical green forages in the arid regions as an alternative feedstuff in case of shortage of green fodders.

Background: The zinc finger protein IKAROS (IKZF1) is an essential transcription factor in haematopoiesis that is involved primarily in lymphoid tissue differentiation. Many studies have indicated that IKZF1 alterations may be associated with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, but the results remain controversial. Objective: We aimed to investigate the association of the rs4132601 T/G and rs10272724 T/C IKZF1 gene polymorphisms with the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and to determine whether these genetic variants affect the clinical parameters and the iron profiles of these children cohort. Methods: This case control study was conducted on 170 Egyptian children comprising of two groups: group (I) included 90 children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and group (II) comprised of 80 ages and sex-matched healthy control children. The studied polymorphisms were genotyped using PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Results: A higher frequency of the mutant GG genotype and G allele of rs4132601 was found in the patient group than in the control group. The results also showed a significant difference among the rs10272724 genotypes, with a higher frequency of the mutant CC genotype and C allele in the patients than in controls. The mutant GG genotype of rs4132601 and the mutant CC genotype of rs10272724 were associated with a higher serum ferritin level and transferrin saturation and an older age at diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia than the other genotypes. Conclusion: IKZF1 rs4132601 and rs10272724 could be considered significant risk contributors to childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and may impact the iron profiles in these children.

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of 10 weeks supplementation of Quebracho tannins (QT; 0 [control], 100 [QT100] or 200 g/[cow·d] [QT200]) to 30 multiparous postpartum buffalo cows (10 cows per group) on milk yield and composition, blood metabolites and reproductive performance. Supplementation of QT100 had no significant effect on milk yield, whereas QT200 decreased (P

In a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement, 3 levels of L-arginine (0, 75 and 150 mg/kg BW per day) were tested at two stages of pregnancy (Early 60 days vs. Late 60 days) on the maternal blood metabolites and postnatal milk composition relative to the newborn traits of Najdi ewes. Thirty adult pregnant Najdi ewes were randomly assigned into 6 treatments (n = 5). Control early (CE) ewes were orally administered 50 mL normal saline (0.9% NaCl) daily during the first 60 days of pregnancy; control late (CL) ewes were similar to CE except saline was given at the last 60 days of pregnancy; low dose of L-arginine at early pregnancy (LE); low dose of L-arginine at late pregnancy (LL); high dose of L-arginine at early (HE) and high dose of L-arginine at late pregnancy (HL). Blood and milk samples were collected on a weekly basis. Data of lambing and newborn traits were considered. There were non-significant differences in litter size due to L-arginine; however lamb birth and weaning weights increased by 35% in LE-ewes. Arginine did not change blood protein and albumin. Low arginine decreased lipid fractions, creatinine, urea, and milk fat; however, it increased AST, ALT, milk lactose and milk ash. Administration of L-arginine at 75 mg/Kg BW per day for 60 days at an early gestation in ewes improved the maternal body health and milk composition for the welfare of the neonates.

Alternaria species, mainly air-borne fungi, affect potato plants, causing black spots symptoms. Morphological identification, pathogenicity assessment, and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) molecular identification confirmed that all isolates were Alternaria alternata. The annotated sequences were deposited in GenBank under accession numbers MN592771–MN592777. HPLC analysis revealed that the fungal isolates KH3 (133,200 ng/g) and NO3 (212,000 ng/g) produced higher levels of tenuazonic acid (TeA) and alternariol monomethyl ether (AME), respectively. Beet ethanol extract (BEE) and beet methanol extract (BME) at different concentrations were used as antimycotoxins. BME decreased the production of mycotoxins by 66.99–99.79%. The highest TeA reduction rate (99.39%) was reported in the KH3 isolate with 150 µg/mL BME treatment. In comparison, the most effective AME reduction rate (99.79%) was shown in the NO3 isolate with 150 µg/mL BME treatment. In the same way, BEE application resulted in 95.60–99.91% mycotoxin reduction. The highest TeA reduction rate (99.91%) was reported in the KH3 isolate with 150 µg/mL BEE treatment, while the greatest AME reduction rate (99.68%) was shown in the Alam1 isolate with 75 µg/mL BEE treatment. GC-MS analysis showed that the main constituent in BME was the antioxidant compound 1-dodecanamine, n,n-dimethyl with a peak area of 43.75%. In contrast, oxirane, methyl- (23.22%), hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (10.72%), and n-hexadecanoic acid (7.32%) were the main components in BEE found by GC-MS. They are probably antimicrobial molecules and have an effect on the mycotoxin in general. To our knowledge, this is the first study describing the antimycotoxigenic activity of beet extracts against A. alternata mycotoxins-contaminated potato crops in Egypt, aimed to manage and save the environment.

Background: Suicide is a multifaceted phenomenon with multiple underlying risk factors, including alcoholand/or abuse of other drugs and psychiatric illnesses. Toxicological analysis is of crucial importance even inhanging deaths where the cause of death seems to be ‘obvious’. Objective: To investigate hanging suicidedeaths, focusing on toxicological findings in their postmortem specimens, over a period of six years in theEastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Methods: The suicidal hanging deaths in the period from 2014 to 2019were retrospectively studied from autopsy and toxicology analysis reports. Results: Of the investigated 75hanging suicides, 64 (85.3%) were males and 11 (14.7%) were females. Most of the cases were in the agegroup between 31 and 40 years of age (36%). Non-Saudi nationals (57, 76%) much prevailed over Saudipeople (18, 24%) and the highest is the Indian population (27, 36%), followed by Saudi nationals (18, 24%).Ethanol was the commonest detected substance in the studied specimens (45, 60%). Cannabis ranked thesecond (14, 18.6%) followed by antipsychotic drugs (10, 13.3%) and amphetamine (7, 9. 3%).Conclusion:The precise statistical mortality database for hanging suicides deaths may provide a valuable evidence forthe importance of postmortem toxicology analysis and the role of alcohol and its effect on the aggressivebehavior, human health and mortality. In the current study, Ethanol was the highest detected substance in thestudied specimens (45, 60%), with predominance of non-Saudi Indian males.

The current work aimed to synthesize selenium and zinc nanoparticles using the aqueous extract of Ephedra aphylla as a valuable medicinal plant. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, zeta potential, and changes in the phytochemical constituents. Hence, the phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents were reduced in the case of the prepared samples of nanoparticles than the original values in the aqueous extract. The prepared extract of Ephedra aphylla and its selenium and zinc nanoparticles showed high potency as antioxidant agents as a result of the DPPH• assay. The samples were assessed as anticancer agents against six tumor cells and a normal lung fibroblast (WI-38) cell line. The selenium nanoparticles of Ephedra aphylla extract revealed very strong cytotoxicity against HePG-2 cells (inhibitory concentration (IC50) = 7.56 ± 0.6 µg/mL), HCT-116 cells (IC50 = 10.02 ± 0.9 µg/mL), and HeLa cells (IC50 = 9.23 ± 0.8 µg/mL). The samples were evaluated as antimicrobial agents against bacterial and fungal strains. Thus, selenium nanoparticles showed potent activities against Gram-negative strains (Salmonella typhimurium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli), Gram-positive strains (Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis), and the fungal strain Candida albicans. In conclusion, the preparation of nanoparticles of either selenium or zinc is crucial for improved biological characteristics.

Background: Experimental and clinical data suggest that reducing inflammation without affecting lipid levels may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Yet, the inflammatory hypothesis of atherothrombosis has remained unproved. Methods: We conducted a randomized, double-blind trial of canakinumab, a therapeutic monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-1β, involving 10,061 patients with previous myocardial infarction and a high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level of 2 mg or more per liter. The trial compared three doses of canakinumab (50 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg, administered subcutaneously every 3 months) with placebo. The primary efficacy end point was nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or cardiovascular death. RESULTS: At 48 months, the median reduction from baseline in the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level was 26 percentage points greater in the group that received the 50-mg dose of canakinumab, 37 percentage points greater in the 150-mg group, and 41 percentage points greater in the 300-mg group than in the placebo group. Canakinumab did not reduce lipid levels from baseline. At a median follow-up of 3.7 years, the incidence rate for the primary end point was 4.50 events per 100 person-years in the placebo group, 4.11 events per 100 person-years in the 50-mg group, 3.86 events per 100 person-years in the 150-mg group, and 3.90 events per 100 person-years in the 300-mg group. The hazard ratios as compared with placebo were as follows: in the 50-mg group, 0.93 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.80 to 1.07; P = 0.30); in the 150-mg group, 0.85 (95% CI, 0.74 to 0.98; P = 0.021); and in the 300-mg group, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.75 to 0.99; P = 0.031). The 150-mg dose, but not the other doses, met the prespecified multiplicity-adjusted threshold for statistical significance for the primary end point and the secondary end point that additionally included hospitalization for unstable angina that led to urgent revascularization (hazard ratio vs. placebo, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.73 to 0.95; P = 0.005). Canakinumab was associated with a higher incidence of fatal infection than was placebo. There was no significant difference in all-cause mortality (hazard ratio for all canakinumab doses vs. placebo, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.06; P = 0.31). Conclusions: Antiinflammatory therapy targeting the interleukin-1β innate immunity pathway with canakinumab at a dose of 150 mg every 3 months led to a significantly lower rate of recurrent cardiovascular events than placebo, independent of lipid-level lowering. (Funded by Novartis; CANTOS ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01327846.)

Mediator is a modular coactivator complex involved in the transcription of the majority of RNA polymerase II-regulated genes. However, the degrees to which individual core subunits of Mediator contribute to its activity have been unclear. Here, we investigate the contribution of two essential architectural subunits of Mediator to transcription in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that acute depletion of the main complex scaffold Med14 or the head module nucleator Med17 is lethal and results in global transcriptional downregulation, though Med17 removal has a markedly greater negative effect. Consistent with this, Med17 depletion impairs preinitiation complex (PIC) assembly to a greater extent than Med14 removal. Co-depletion of Med14 and Med17 reduced transcription and TFIIB promoter occupancy similarly to Med17 ablation alone, indicating that the contributions of Med14 and Med17 to Mediator function are not additive. We propose that, while the structural integrity of complete Mediator and the head module are both important for PIC assembly and transcription, the head module plays a greater role in this process and is thus the key functional module of Mediator in this regard.

Hippopotamus is one of the most-loved animals in Africa, yet it is aggressive and dangerous. The co-existence of humans in close proximity to their natural habitat increases the probability of human injury. Hippopotamus attacks have long been recognized to cause serious injuries, but its magnitude and burden are still unknown. The medical literature is very scarce when it comes to documenting hippopotamus bite injuries and their outcomes. We present a cohort of 11 patients who suffered hippopotamus bite injuries in Burundi. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series reporting on the clinical presentation, injury patterns and surgical outcomes of hippopotamus bites. The results show a high incidence of wound infections, amputations and permanent disability among other complications. Hippopotamus-inflicted injuries should, therefore, be triaged as major trauma rather than just ‘mammalian bites’.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been proposed to stem from multiple etiologies, perhaps genetic in nature with biological and psychosocial motivates. Tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) and Reelin (RELN) genes may play a key role in triggering ADHD. The purpose of this case-controlled study was to explore the linkage of the genetic variants of TPH2 and RELN genes with ADHD. One hundred Egyptian children with ADHD and 105 age and sex matched controls constituted the study samples. Genotyping was performed for TPH2 (rs11179027; rs1843809) and RELN (rs736707; rs362691) gene polymorphisms using real time PCR assay. The alleles and genotype frequencies of TPH2 and RELN gene polymorphisms were assessed in all study participants. The frequencies of the alleles of TPH2 rs11179027 (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.08-2.85, p = 0.022), TPH2 rs1843809 (OR = 3.67, 95% CI = 1.82-7.43, p =

Background Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are the leading cause of infant deaths worldwide. The relationship between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism and CHDs is not clear. The aim of this work is to assess the presence of an association between ACE I/D polymorphism and CHD in Egyptian population. Subjects and methods Seventy CHD cases and 70 controls were incorporated in this study. DNA was isolated from their peripheral blood, and then ACE I/D gene polymorphism was tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results There was no significant difference among the frequencies of the DD, II, and DI genotypes in patients and controls (26 [37.1%], 37 [53.3%], and 4 [5.7%], 5 [6.7%]), 40 (57.2%), 28 (40%), respectively (p value = 1 and OR [95% CI] = 1.1). There was no significant difference between D allele (DD + DI) and II genotype distribution among patients and controls (p value = 1 and OR [95% CI] = 1.2 [0.3-2.9]). Moreover, there was no difference between I allele (II + DI) and DD frequency (p value = 0.2 and OR [95% CI] = 0.6 [0.3-1.2]). Conclusions ACE I/D gene polymorphism might not be a risk factor of CHD in Egyptian children. Additional widespread studies are needed to affirm these data.

Objective: Heavy metals are major elements polluting our universe. The inhalation, ingestion or even contacting human body with these elements results in huge health problems. The most common pollutant in our surrounding is mercury. Therefore, the present study aimed to elucidating the protective ability of hot water extracts of dandelion (DA), coriander (CO), date palm seeds (DS), probiotic supernatant (PS) and their combined mixture against mercury-induced neurotoxicity and altered testosterone levels in male rats. Methods: Fifty six male rats were randomly allotted into seven groups (n = 8 rats/group). Group1 (negative control; NC) animals were fed on the basal diet only, group2 (positive controls; PC) animals were fed on the basal diet and given an aqueous solution of mercuric chloride (25 ppm mercuric) in drinking water. Animals of the antioxidant-treated groups (3–7) were fed on the basal diet and given an aqueous solution of mercuric chloride (25 ppm mercuric) in drinking water together with the herbal antioxidant extracts and probiotics (25 ml/rat/day) throughout the experimental period. Where, group3 (Hg/CO) given coriander extract, group4 (Hg/DA) given dandelion extract, group5 (Hg/DS) given date palm seeds extract, group6 (Hg/PS) given probiotic supernatant, and group7 (Hg/Mix) given mixture of equal quantities of probiotic supernatant together with the three herbal extracts. The treatment lasted for 6 weeks, animals were sacrificed and blood samples were collected. Blood testosterone, enzyme activity and histopathological sections were performed. Results: The obtained data exhibited that mercury intoxication revealed increases of lactic dehydrogenase and decreases of glutathione-s-transferase and testosterone. Light microscopic investigations of the brain cortex and cerebellum were suggestive of multiple foci of inflammation, cellular infiltration, gliosis and degeneration. Moreover, decreased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-immunoreactivity and potential astrocyte toxicity both reflected impaired neuro-protective function of astrocytes necessary for maintaining the brain structure and function. Conclusion: Administration of the herbal extracts and their mixture with probiotics enhance the body defense and contain protective factor against mercury neurotoxicity and for maintaining normal testosterone levels in male rats. Also, treatment restored the normal control levels of biochemical attributes and histological architecture. Keywords: Mercury toxicity, Dandelion, Coriander, Date seeds, Probiotics, GFAP, Histology, Brain, Rats

Wood is classified as one of the most common building materials due to its diverse nature. Casuarina is considered one of the fast-growing trees in relatively arid countries such as Egypt. ...

Purpose Previous studies have suggested that GABARG2 (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid type A Receptor Gamma 2 subunit) could be a gene of interest in genetic epilepsy; through possible associations with increased epilepsy susceptibility or resistance to antiepileptic drugs. The present study was designed to explore whether the GABARG2 C588 T (rs211037) genetic variant predicts susceptibility to epilepsy and pharmacoresistance among Egyptian children with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy (IGE). Methods A cohort of 210 Egyptian children was divided into two groups for this case-control study: group (I) included 100 children with IGE, group (II) comprised of 110 paediatric healthy controls. PCR-RFLP was used to amplify the C588 T polymorphism of the GABARG2 gene, which was digested with APOI restriction enzymes. Results There was a higher frequency of the TT genotype (P = 0.004) and T allele (P = 0.002) of the C588 T polymorphism of the GABARG2 gene in patients than controls. Besides, there was a substantial increase of the T allele among drug-resistant patients compared with those responding to antiepileptic drugs (P = 0.00015). Children with the C allele were four times more likely to be responsive to antiepileptic drugs than non-C-allele-carriers. Conclusion The C588 T polymorphism of GABARG2 is associated with an increased risk of developing childhood IGE and may modulate patients' response to antiepileptic drugs.

Among of the collection of 104 fungal isolates from the rhizosphere of the medicinal plants basil (Ocimum basilicum), peppermint (Mentha piperita) and (Aloe vera), 59 of them were assessed for in vitro antagonistic activity against phytopathogenic fungi; Fusarium solani, Rhizocotina solani, Sclerotium rolfsii and Verticillium dahliae. The most active antagonistic isolates were identified using molecular tools based on 18S rDNA. The sequence data of Aspergillus pseudocaelatus and Trichoderma gamsii have been submitted to GenBank given the accession no. MG772677 & KX685665, respectively. The antagonistic mechanisms were evaluated using confrontation method and scanning electron microscopy. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analyzed using GC/MS. Biological investigation on the ethyl acetate extract of A. pseudocaelatus MG772677 and T. gamsii KX685665 isolates was evaluated. The greenhouse application with the selected isolates on basil seedlings was performed. In vitro antagonistic results indicated that the highest percentage of inhibition was observed with A. pseudocaelatus, 77.90% and T. gamsii, 77.98%. The average emergence rate in the treatments with T. gamsii and A. pseudocaelatus reached up to 100%, much more than that in the control (average 40%). The results indicated that A. pseudocaelatus MG772677 and T. gamsii KX685665, displayed antagonistic activities against the pathogenic fungi and presented appreciable biocontrol efficacy. Also the two isolates could enhance the plant growth and improve the seedlings’ emergence.

In this work, shearing interface coassembly in biliquid phase systems is employed to synthesize biocompatible core-shell magnetic mesoporous silica microspheres with uniform size of about 600 nm, perpendicular mesopores of 6.0 nm and large pore volume of 0.77 cm3/g. The toxicology assays based on the zebrafish model was conducted to test under a high-throughput manner for the biosafety of Fe3O4@RF@mSiO2 microspheres. The highest no observed toxic effect concentration (NOEC) estimated by the acute toxicity assay for the microspheres was 1.6 mg/mL. The estimated number (measured by ICP-MS) of the penetrated microspheres at this concentration was 2 × 106 per embryo. The results of three different performed toxicity assays show no overall acute toxicity, teratogenicity, or neurotoxicity of the microspheres on zebrafish embryos at any of the tested concentrations (from 0.1 to 1.6 mg/mL) via its multifunctional microstructure. Here, gemcitabine (GEM) as a model of anti-cancer drug was loaded into the mesopores of Fe3O4@RF@mSiO2 microspheres to study their drug release behavior. The microspheres were found to exhibit pH responsive property, which benefits for the GEM release under cancer therapy. Overall, this study offers promising avenue for effective evaluation of magnetic core-shell microspheres for drug delivery and cancer therapy applications.

Nanoparticles nowadays are an effective control agent against most phytopathogens. However, there are many reports on their antimicrobial activity and little as a nematicide. In this study, green biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using Acalypha wilkesiana aqueous leaf extract was achieved. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the crystalline structure with face-centred cubic (fcc), where is the size was nearly 20 nm. SEM images of the Ag NPs show the spherical shape and in the range from 10 to 30 nm. Various functional groups, capping, and stability agents were identified using Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The nematicidal activity of biosynthesized Ag NPs conc. 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL were evaluated in vitro against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita), egg hatching (6 days after) and movement after 24 and 48 h. The Ag NPs (100 µg/ml) application after 48 h was the most effective treatment that showed 53.3% of nematode mortality. Overall, the efficiency of bio-Ag NPs reduced the nematode activity, mortality, egg hatching, and movement of larvae. To our knowledge, this is the first report of nematicidal action of biosynthesized Ag NPs using A. wilkesiana aqueous extract, and it could be recommended to manage the plant-parasitic nematode as it is simple, stable, cost-effective and keep the environment safe.

Investigating effects of partial (50%) or total (100%) substitution of clover hay by tannins-rich plant (Acacia saligna) on productive and reproductive performance of ewe lambs was the main goal of this study. Two experiments were conducted: first focusing on digestibility and N balance using 9 Barky rams (live body weight, 43 ± 2.5 kg) where animals were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 3); control (C), 50% Acacia (AS50%) and 100% Acacia (AS100%); second focusing on productive and reproductive performance of ewe-lambs (n=18) where animals were divided into three groups (n=6); C, AS50% and AS100%. This experiment started 2 months before mating and continued till weaning. Dry matter intake decreased (P

International audience; Eukaryotic RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcribes mRNA genes and non-protein-coding RNA (ncRNA) genes, including those encoding small nuclear and nucleolar RNAs (sn/snoRNAs). In metazoans, RNAPII transcription of sn/snoRNAs is facilitated by a number of specialized complexes, but no such complexes have been discovered in yeast. It has been proposed that yeast sn/snoRNA and mRNA expression relies on a set of common factors, but the extent to which regulators of mRNA genes function at yeast sn/snoRNA genes is unclear. Here, we investigated a potential role for the Mediator complex, essential for mRNA gene transcription, in sn/snoRNA gene transcription. We found that Mediator maps to sn/snoRNA gene regulatory regions and that rapid depletion of the essential structural subunit Med14 strongly reduces RNAPII and TFIIB occupancy as well as nascent transcription of sn/snoRNA genes. Deletion of Med3 and Med15, subunits of the activator-interacting Mediator tail module, does not affect Mediator recruitment to or RNAPII and TFIIB occupancy of sn/snoRNA genes. Our analyses suggest that Mediator promotes PIC formation and transcription at sn/snoRNA genes, expanding the role of this critical regulator beyond its known functions in mRNA gene transcription and demonstrating further mechanistic similarity between the transcription of mRNA and sn/snoRNA genes.

Objective To identify the prevalence of β-thalassemia carriers among secondary school children for the prevention program of β-thalassemia and to update carrier rate data in Menoufia Governorate. Background β-thalassemia is the most prevalent hereditary disorder and is particularly prevalent among the Mediterranean people, and this geographical association is responsible for its naming. Patients and methods This study was conducted on 303 high school students aged 15–18 years from Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia Governorate, Egypt (62% women and 38% men). They were subjected to full history taking and clinical examination. Laboratory investigation included complete blood count, and serum ferritin level. High-performance liquid chromatography was done for samples with normal or high serum ferritin level. Results The overall prevalence of anemia among the studied students was 38%. Microcytic type was the most common and represented 57% of anemic students. Men have higher mean hemoglobin values than women in different age groups. Three (1%) students of the total studied students were diagnosed to have the β-thalassemia trait. Moreover, there was a significant difference in ferritin level between β-thalassemia carriers and students diagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia. The mean value of hemoglobin A2 in students with β-thalassemia trait was 5.56 ± 0.42%. Conclusion The prevalence of β-thalassemia carriers in high schools was about 1%. A full blood count with microcytosis, together with normal or high serum ferritin level, and hemoglobin A2 more than 3.5% were considered enough for the identification of β-thalassemia carriers in a screening process.

Plant diseases caused by soil pathogenic fungi are threatening plant crops worldwide. The aim of this study focuses on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by a biological method using Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MH046937 as a new source. For attaining maximum biosynthesis of nano-silver an orthogonal array of five-four level factors (L16 45) was applied to determine optimum conditions for maximum bacterial biomass production. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles are characterized using UV-vis spectrophotometer, Transmission electron microscope and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). AgNPs were tested for its antibacterial and antifungal potential against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria strains and fungi strains. In-vitro studies revealed good antifungal effects of AgNPs against phytopathogenic F. oxysporum (33 mm IZD) and F. solani (26 mm IZD). In the greenhouse experiment, AgNPs caused a remarkable enhancement in the Vicia faba growth as; the fresh dry weight of root and shoot, shoot length and stem diameter in soil invaded with F. oxysporum (T1), F. solani (T2) and R. Solani (T3) compared with controls. Treatments (T1, T2 and T3) showed that the disease index (DI) significantly differs from the positive controls (PC1, PC2 and PC3). This study recorded the success of Taguchi design to optimize conditions for maximum bacterial biomass and AgNPs synthesis from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens MH046937. AgNPs showed significant in-vivo effects against phytopathogens and received considerable attention as nanobiofungicide instead of hazardous chemical fungicides.

This study aimed to explore whether 16S rRNA gene amplification by real time PCR and sequencing could serve as genetic-based methods in rapid and accurate diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.This case control study was conducted on 40 neonates suffering from sepsis like manifestations recruited from the neonatal intensive care unit of Menoufia university hospital over a period of 6 months. Their blood samples were used for paired analysis of bacterial growth using BACTEC 9050 instrument and real time PCR assay with subsequent DNA sequencing for bacterial species identification.The detection rate of culture proven sepsis was 70%. By using real time 16S r RNA PCR amplification method, the detection of bacteria was improved to 80%. Real time PCR revealed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of [100%, 66.7%, 87.5% and 100%] respectively. Compared to culture, the 16S rRNA real time PCR demonstrated a high negative value for ruling out neonatal sepsis. There was significant statistical difference between the PCR positive and negative cases as regards the hematological sepsis score. The results demonstrated the ability of DNA sequencing to recognize 4 pathogens which were negative by blood culture. The time consumed to detect sepsis using blood culture was up to 5 days while it took up to 16 h only by PCR and sequencing methods.16S rRNA gene amplification by real time PCR and sequence analysis could be served as ideal and reliable genetic-based methods to diagnose and rule out sepsis with provision of additional data that cannot be obtained by routine laboratory tests with a shorter turnaround time than those with culture-based protocols.

The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of dystocia in camel herds, its forms in primi- and multipara, the risks to fetus and dam, and the associated hematobiochemical changes. A total of 1890 calvings were surveyed for the prevalence of dystocia. Cases with dystocia (n=107) were examined for causes and treated with traction, fetotomy or Cesarean section. Logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors. The dependent variables were the fetal and maternal mortality, while the independent variables were parity, duration of dystocia, causes of dystocia, and method of treatment. Blood samples were collected from all dystocia camels and six controls for hematology and concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), estradiol-17β (E2), progesterone (P4), total protein, albumin, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The overall prevalence of dystocia was 8.6%. Risk of dystocia was higher in camels managed in an intensive system than in those in a free system (Odds ratio=1.9, P=0.0003) and higher in primipara than in multipara (Odds ratio 1.7, P=0.005). Abnormal posture was the most important cause of dystocia (51.4%). Uterine torsion was the second most important cause (23.4%) and was mainly observed in multipara (P=0.0006). Dystocia was linked to high fetal mortality (87.9%). A significant relationship was found between fetal death and duration of dystocia (Odds ratio=8.04, P=0.005). The percentage of dam mortality was 17.8%. Significant associations were detected between dam mortality rate and the duration of dystocia (Odds ratio=4.74, P=0.03) and fetal viability (Odds ratio=5.82, P=0.02). Increasing duration of dystocia was associated with significant increases in SAA, Hp, BUN and AST, but with decreases in E2 (P

Aims: This study aimed at elucidating the effects of recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) on the ovarian follicular dynamics, progesterone, estradiol-17β profiles, and pregnancy of dairy cows. Materials and Methods: Three groups (G, n=5 cows) of multiparous dairy cows were used. G1 (C) control cows were given controlled internal drug release (CIDR) and prostaglandin F2α; G2 (L) cows were given low dose (525 IU and G3 (H) cows were given high dose (1800 IU) of r-hFSH on twice daily basis at the last 3 days before CIDR removal. All cows were ultrasonically scanned for follicular growth and dynamics, and blood samples were collected every other day for two consecutive estrus cycles for the determination of estradiol-17β and progesterone. Results: Estrus was observed in all C and L but not in H cows. Dominant follicle was bigger in L compared to C and H cows. Dominant follicle in C (16.00±2.5 mm) and L cows (17.40±2.3 mm) disappeared at 72 h after CIDR removal. However, in H cows, no ovulation has occurred during 7 days post-CIDR removal. Progesterone was not different (p>0.10) among groups, whereas estradiol-17β revealed significant (p

Ammonia is a production limiting factor in the aquaculture media affecting fish production. A study was designed to scrutinize effects of ammonia on growth performance, survival, cortisol and hematological parameters of Tilapia fish. The study examined effects of 96 h-incubation of male and female Tilapia with 3 mg ammonium chloride per a liter of water compared to control. The study has been carried out in the physiology laboratory of the department of animal and fish production, Alexandria University. Fourteen aquaria were used (6 control and 8 ammoniated). Each aquarium contained 6 fish (half the population males and the other have females). Duration of the control reared fish was 30 days, however the duration for ammoniated group was 4 days. In all stressed fish, there found decreases in final body weight, average daily gain and specific growth rate as compared to controls. Hematological parameters revealed increases (P0.05) in total leukocyte counts in both males and females exposed to stressors. There were significant decreases (P0.05) in red blood cell, hematocrit value and hemoglobin concentration in both males and females. There were non-significant differences (P0.10) in these parameters between males and females. Exposing both male and female tilapia to ammonia, resulted in increases (P0.05) in mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) didn’t change in male tilapia, while females expressed increased MCH values in the ammonia condition. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) decreased (P0.05) under ammonia with no differences between males and females. Differential leukocyte count exhibited increases (P0.05) in neutrophils in ammonia-exposed males and females and decreases (P0.05) in eosinophils and monocytes in males, but not in females. However, lymphocytes decreased (P0.05) in both females and males exposed to ammonia. Cortisol level increased (P0.05) by about 2 folds in both sexes of fish exposed to ammonia (2.95 and 2.72 vs6.40 and 6.48 ng/ml in control males and females vs ammonia-exposed males and females).Rearing tilapia fish in media containing high level (3mg/l water) of ammonium chloride not only deteriorated growth rate but it also negatively affected the health wellbeing.

Transplantation of progenitors from induced pluripotent stem cells reprogrammed by lentiviral vectors led to the formation of invasive teratocarcinoma-like tumors in more than 90% of immunodeficient mice. Combined transgene-free reprogramming and elimination of residual pluripotent cells by enzymatic dissociation ensured tumor-free transplantation, ultimately enabling regeneration of type 1 diabetes-specific human islet structures in vivo., Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and derived progeny provide invaluable regenerative platforms, yet their clinical translation has been compromised by their biosafety concern. Here, we assessed the safety of transplanting patient-derived iPSC-generated pancreatic endoderm/progenitor cells. Transplantation of progenitors from iPSCs reprogrammed by lentiviral vectors (LV-iPSCs) led to the formation of invasive teratocarcinoma-like tumors in more than 90% of immunodeficient mice. Moreover, removal of primary tumors from LV-iPSC progeny-transplanted hosts generated secondary and metastatic tumors. Combined transgene-free (TGF) reprogramming and elimination of residual pluripotent cells by enzymatic dissociation ensured tumor-free transplantation, ultimately enabling regeneration of type 1 diabetes-specific human islet structures in vivo. The incidence of tumor formation in TGF-iPSCs was titratable, depending on the oncogenic load, with reintegration of the cMYC expressing vector abolishing tumor-free transplantation. Thus, transgene-free cMYC-independent reprogramming and elimination of residual pluripotent cells are mandatory steps in achieving transplantation of iPSC progeny for customized and safe islet regeneration in vivo. Significance Pluripotent stem cell therapy for diabetes relies on the safety as well as the quality of derived insulin-producing cells. Data from this study highlight prominent tumorigenic risks of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) products, especially when reprogrammed with integrating vectors. Two major underlying mechanisms in iPSC tumorigenicity are residual pluripotent cells and cMYC overload by vector integration. This study also demonstrated that combined transgene-free reprogramming and enzymatic dissociation allows teratoma-free transplantation of iPSC progeny in the mouse model in testing the tumorigenicity of iPSC products. Further safety assessment and improvement in iPSC specification into a mature β cell phenotype would lead to safe islet replacement therapy for diabetes.

Background: Treatment of Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) infections has become very difficult especially in the last decades as the levels of antibiotic resistance are becoming increasingly a serious problem throughout the world. Aim: The growing number and rapid increase in carbapenems resistance which are the last resort of treatment of K. pneumoniae infections has urged for investigating some of these possible resistance mechanisms. Materials and Methods: A total of 202 K. pneumoniae isolates were selected from 593 specimens collected from patients attended 4 hospitals during the period from October 2013 to August 2014. Fifty-three multi-drug resistant (MDR) K. pneumoniae isolates which showed resistance to imipenem and/or meropenem were tested phenotypically and gynotypically for the producibility of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenmase (KPC) and New Delhi metallo β-lactamase (NDM) and the presence of blaKPC and blaNDM genes encoding for these enzymes respectively. Results:The rate of production of both potential KPC and NDM was 35/53 (66.04%), whereas only 8 of these 53 MDR K. pneumoniae isolates (15.1%) were positive for NDM but not KPC production. The rates of detection of potential blaKPC and blaNDM genes among the 35 MDR K. pneumoniae positive isolates for the production of both KPC and NDM were 10/35 (28.57%) and 5/35 (14.28%) respectively. Conclusion: blaKPC and blaNDM were detected in some MDR isolates. However, the presence of isolates devoid of both genes suggests that resistance against carbapenems could be due to mechanisms other than the production of KPC and NDM-β-lactamases.

This study was conducted to investigate effects of supplementing two doses of quebracho tannins (QT; 100 or 200 g/cow/d; QT100 or QT200) pre and post parturition to thirty Holstein dairy cows on Dry Matter Intake (DMI), milk yield and composition, blood metabolites and reproductive performance for 12 weeks. There were no significant changes in DMI due to QT at transition period of dairy cows. QT supplementation at either level decreased (P 0.05) the total number of ovarian follicles, number of large follicles, diameter of largest follicle, number of small follicles, number and diameter of corpus luteum, and progesterone concentration. The inclusion of QT increased days open and number of services per conception, which consequently decreased conception rate, compared to the control cows. QT100 decreased (P < 0.05) serum total protein, globulin, glucose and triglycerides concentrations as compared with their values in control cows. Thus, the supplementation of commercial QT to dairy cows at their transition period had negative impacts on productive and reproductive performance.

A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement was designed to test effects of supplementation of a low (L, 75 mg/kg BW) vs. high (H, 150 mg/kg BW) L-arginine given at early (first 56 days) vs. late (last 56 days) pregnancy on maternal hormones and neonatal traits. Thirty Najdi pregnant ewes were randomly allocated into 6 groups. Ewes in G1 and G2 served as controls (C), given 50 ml saline at either early (CE) or late (CL) pregnancy, respectively. G3 and G4 ewes in early pregnancy received low (LE) and high L-arginine (HE), respectively. G5 and G6 ewes in late pregnancy received low (LL) and high (HL) L-arginine, respectively. A weekly blood sample was collected from initiation of the treatment till parturition. Serum growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), insulin, progesterone (P4) and estradiol 17 β (E2) profiles were determined. Neonatal traits were also determined. Insulin was higher (P 0.05). Lamb survival rates at birth in LE ewes were highest (100%) compared to other treatments. In conclusion, supplementing pregnant ewes with low dosage of L-arginine at early stage of gestation increased lamb birth weight and survival, and improved maternal health.

Surface tension is a phenomenon in the liquid media and plays an important part in the development and survival of aquatic animals. Influence of Aquatain™ monomolecular film on surface tension was determined against mosquito larvae and pupae at different temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 °C) and Aquatain™ doses (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 ml/m2). In the laboratory, Aquatain™ showed larvicidal and pupicidal effects against the filarial vector Culex pipiens. Higher mortality was observed in late and more weighted instars/stages than young ones as well as in the pupal stage. The pupal mortality reached 76.2%, 86% and 93.3% after 12 h post-treatment at 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 ml/m2, respectively, and it was completely eliminated (100%) within 24 h compared to 15.1%, 26.9% and 38.2% for 1st larval instar, respectively. Also, results showed at 0.5 ml/m2 with temperature range: 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 °C, the mortality reached 4.0, 6.7, 10.8, 17.3, 22.7, 29.3% and 32, 44, 54, 72, 84, 97.3% for 1st and 4th larval instar, respectively, where the surface tension (γ) was 65.6, 62.4, 58.0, 57.0, 54.2 and, 49.6 dyn/cm, while the Aquatain™ was more effective on mosquito larvae and pupae at high doses with the temperature range. On the other hand, without Aquatain™ dose, the mortality value ranged between 0.0 - 1.2%, and the surface tension (γ) was 74.5 dyne/cm, which is considered as an accidental death. Aquatain™ was effective against all aquatic phases of mosquitoes, especially against the last and weighted ones. Not only was the efficacy of Aquatain™ increased by increasing the dose, but it also increased with the increased temperature of the environment. This efficiency of Aquatain™ is due to its ability to reduce the surface tension of the water medium, preventing different stages of mosquitoes from reaching the surface for breathing thereby leading to suffocation and death. Therefore, we recommended Aquatain™ in programmes for mosquito control and other aquatic insects as a safe, cost-effective control agent.

Biogenesis of metal nanoparticles draws significant attention due to environment eco-friendly and sustainable methods. Locally isolated Penicillium chrysogenum MF318506 free from mycotoxins was selected as candidate for bio-synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The response surface methodology (RSM) of central composite design (CCD) was applied to control the biosynthesis of silver nano-size and activity depending on the pH of the reaction mixture and AgNO3 concentration. Changing conditions in the design showed different nano-sizes with different antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities. The best conditions for biosynthesis of biologically active AgNPs could be attained using the low metal concentrations (0.172 and 1.0 mM) with high pH values (8, 12&10) after 6 h incubation in dark conditions. The controlled nanoparticles were studied and characterized by UV–visible spectrophotometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). From this study we have concluded that the statistically controlled silver nano-size from Penicillium chrysogenum MF318506 can be utilized as a novel good candidate in biomedical research.

The present study is on the spatial distribution and for estimating the optimum sample size for monitoring the populations of the scale insect Icerya seychellarum (Coccomorpha: Monophlebidae) on guava. The study was done in 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 in Luxor, Egypt. It was observed that the scale occurred year round and there were three to four peaks of seasonal activity: beginning of June, mid-September and mid-November in 2017 and the beginning of April, mid-June, mid-August and mid-October in 2018. Data on the indices of distribution and Taylor's and Iwao's regression analyses indicate significant aggregation behaviour. The regression models of Taylor's power law (b) and Iwao's patchiness (β) were both significantly >1, indicating that I. seychellarum had an aggregation distribution with a negative binomial distribution. The Iwao regression coefficients were used to determine the optimum sample size required to estimate populations at three fixed precision levels. The optimum size decreased with increased density in all levels of precision (5, 10 and 15%). These can be deployed to develop a sampling plan to estimate the population density accurately. Furthermore, the sampling protocol presented herein will be a tool for IPM decisions.